Chetwynd Echo January 6, 2012

WWW.CHETWYNDECHO.NET $1.25 INCLUDES HST

Chetwynd EchoServing Chetwynd and area for 50 years

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6, 2012

Chetwynd EchoServing Chetwynd and area since 1959

2011:A LOOKBACK

BY NAOMI LARSENChetwynd Echo Editor

––––––––––––––HASLER - With a flare

off so intense one couldsee it from the town ofChetwynd more than 30km away and an odourthat left some residentslungs and eyes burning,the Pine River Gas Planthad surrounding residentsa little concerned Mondaymorning.

Of their own admittancein a voicemail returned toa Stone Creek residentwho called in to complainabout a ‘rotten egg’ smellthat left her and her four-year-old daughter cough-ing and nauseous, aSpectra Energy employeedid say they were “havinga few issues” at the plant.Through our sources, theChetwynd Echo later foundout the plant had endured

a total plant outage ataround 7:30 that morningdue to an electrical gener-ation failure and that theexcess gas had needed tobe flared off.Spectra Energy

spokesperson RosemarySilva said the plant’s auto-matic safety shutdownsystems were activated,depressuring the plantand isolating the plant’ssulphur pipeline.

“The operations staffimmediately began theprocess of securing theplant,” she said in anemail to the Echo. “Allthree process trains at theplant were shut downresulting in a non-plannedflaring event from thePRGP flare stacks for aperiod of approximatelytwo hours (from 7:30am to10:00am).”Producers were request-

ed to cut all production tothe plant, as no gatheringor processing service wasavailable in the GrizzlyValley.“A flow constraint was

issued to customers toensure that system pres-sure control was main-tained and that firm cus-tomers would have equal

Power outage shuts down PineRiver Gas Plant: massive flare off

Please see "SITUATION,"page 2

access to the system asthey were able to bring

field production backonline,” Silva explained.

In less than four hours,Silva said their Operationsand Maintenance person-nel identified the cause ofthe generator trip thatcaused the total plant out-age, re-established powerand began the process ofestablishing all the plantutilities.“Once the utilities were

steady, they began theprocess to re-start theplant,” she said. “ The firstprocess train came backonline late Mondayevening. By Tuesdayafternoon, the team had re-established two of thethree process trains, bothsulphur trains and werecontinuing the process toramp up to full plant pro-duction.”By early Wednesday

morning Silva said thethird process train hadbeen re-established and bymid-morning system oper-ations had stabilized andreturned to normal opera-tions with producers flow-ing at normal rates.Later Monday evening

some residents in Haslerreceived a phone call

informing them about theoutage and the ongoingissues. When asked whyall residents weren’t noti-fied, Silva said it’s up toresidents to let SpectraEnergy know if theywould like to be calledshould there be an issue atthe plant.

Despite the situation,Silva said the incident wasnot an operational emer-gency requiring a broadernotification to area resi-dents.“A group of residents in

Hasler Flats are part of acore group in the commu-nity who have asked thatthey be personally noti-fied at any indication ofan upset at the plant,” shesaid. “As such, these resi-dents received a phonecall from our operationsgroup advising them thatwe experienced a poweroutage and that theywould see flaring as partof our plant shutdownprocess. We also commit-ted to keeping theminformed, if we experi-enced any additionalissues.”So what was the smell

that made its way into thevalley?“Due to weather condi-

tions at the time of theshutdown (inversion -10Cat higher elevations, -2Cnear ground level), sul-phur odours from the flarestacks reached the Valleyarea below the Plant,”Silva said. “SpectraEnergy’s air monitoringstation in Hasler Flats con-firmed that there was nodetectable sulphur dioxideand less than two parts perbillion (ppb) of hydrogensulphide. Each of these arewell below the Provincialmaximum desirable airquality objectives of 169ppb for sulphur dioxideand 5.3 ppb for hydrogensulphide.In Canada, Silva said,

the Federal and ProvincialGovernments have estab-lished a series of ambientair quality objectives.Through a process of sci-entific investigation andcritical review, concentra-tion thresholds are estab-lished which are indicativeof a rising series of poten-tial impacts on the receiv-ing environment andhuman health.“There are three levels of

objectives – maximumdesirable, maximumacceptable and maximumtolerable,” she aid. “Themaximum desirable objec-tive is the most stringentand is the long term goalfor air quality.“Sulphur odours can

however be moderate tostrong irritants, and can bedetected at very low con-centration levels – wellbelow levels that wouldimmediately impacthuman health,” Silva said.“We regret any temporarydiscomfort which ourneighbours experienceddue to this unplannedshutdown.”

Friday, January 6, 2012 Chetwynd Echo2 Friday, January 6, 2012 Chetwynd Echo

Beelyne ExecutiveServices Ltd.

ACCOUNTING ~ INCOME TAXSummer Hours July/August

Monday - Thursday9am-12pm • 1pm - 4pm

Closed Fridays

788-3638 5208 N.Access(Chinook Centre)

Serving Chetwynd for 40 YearsOPEN

9am-5pmMonday - Friday

Closed 12-1 for LunchCLOSED

Saturday/Sunday

Continued from page 1

Situation was not an operational emergency: Spectra

“We regret anytemporary

discomfort whichour neighbours

experienced due tothis unplannedshutdown.”

-RosemarySilvaSpectraPublicAffairs

3Friday, January 6, 2012Chetwynd Echo

Friday 16Scattered flurries

Saturday 17Few flurries

Sunday 18Few flurries

Tuesday 20Few flurries

Wednesday 21Cloudy periods

Thursday 22Cloudy periods

High: 1Low: -4

High: 1Low: -4

High: 1Low: -3

High: 4Low: -3

High: 0Low: -4

High: 2Low: -3

High: -2Low: -5

Monday 19Variable cloudiness

Be prepared for winter driving conditions.Check www.drivebc.ca or phone 1-800-550-4997for the latest road conditions in British Columbia.

Use caution when passingor encountering roadmaintenance equipment.

Drive Safely!

RED ROCK CINEMACHETWYND, B.C. 250-788-2621

TO CHECK RATING AND SHOWTIMESCALL 250-788-2621

Next Show January 19Coming:

• Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Pt. 1• New Years Eve• Chipwrecked

Echo welcomes new reporterBY ELIZABETH BROWN––––––––––––––

Greetings Chetwynd!My name is Elizabeth

Brown, often referred to asLiz. I arrived in ChetwyndJanuary 1, 2012 and I amexcited to join theChetwynd EchoNewspaper. I look for-ward to meeting you atvarious events, so pleasedon't be affraid to sayhello. I was born andraised in the small countyof Haliburton, Ontario.The Torontonian's refer toit as cottage country.Coincidentally, our news-paper is called theHaliburton County Echoand it is where I beganwriting.I recently moved from

Halifax, Nova Scotia whereI completed my journalismdegree at the University ofKing's College. Aside fromwriting, I kept busy surf-ing, rock climbing andfilming a women's surfdocumentary.

As a teenager, I dreamedof living and snowboardingin British Columbia. Afterexperiencing an incredibleski season in Fernie and theallure of oceans and moun-tains residing in Vancouver,

I fell in love with the moun-tains and knew I wouldreturn. Two seasons of treeplanting in Prince George,Quesnel and Fort St. John,provided new appreciationfor northern British

Columbia's vast wilder-ness- an outdoor play-ground void of SouthernBritish Columbia's largecrowds.However, I predict a high

volume of traffic inChetwynd since the open-ing of Tim Horton's. Iremember when we experi-enced the opening of TimHorton's in HaliburtonCounty a few years ago.My parents were ecstaticand while I was home visit-ing, they wokeme at 7 a.m.,in order to beat the lines atTim Horton's. My momhad to document the occa-sion with a photographbefore we headed home.While I lacked the samelevel of enthusiasm, Iappreciated their keennessto welcome a big change inour little community.I look forward to getting

to know you as I makeChetwynd home.Here's to 2012 and the

change it will inevitablybring.

BROWN

FIND US ONLINE AT

WWW.CHETWYNDECHO.NET

Energetic City––––––––––––––

FORT ST. JOHN – In an inter-view with the Globe and Mail,Westjet CEO Gregg Saretskynames Fort St. John as a potentialmarket the airline would servicewith the addition of smaller planesto their fleet.In the interview, Saretsky says

WestJet is looking seriously at

expanding beyond their fleet ofonly Boeing 737's aircraft toinclude smaller jets that wouldservice smaller markets such asFort St. John.Saretsky is quoted in the article,

“We’ve built out almost as much aswe can the 737 footprint inCanada, serving all the marketswithin the mission range and capa-bility of the 737… We need to fly

into small communities, and if webring airfares down, we can get alot of travellers. You have to buildout the home market first."If WestJet decides to order new

aircraft, it would take between 12-18 months for delivery, whichmeans air travel competition inFort St. John could still still take awhile if WestJet decides to goahead with the expansion.

West Jet looking at FSJ

Happy New Year!And so anotheryear has come

and gone. Amazingisn't it? It seems likeonly yesterday I wasmaking this year's sillyNew Year's resolutions(or as I like to callthem: the weekly to-dolist) and swearing Iwas going to keepthem.Well this year I decided

to skip the resolutionsaltogether and insteadthink about what othersmay be resolving to do for

2012. Besides finding asolution to world hungeror creating world peace,here are some examplesthat are more realistic(please take them with agrain of salt...)• Spectra Energy: To

notify the residents ofHasler and surroundingarea (including StoneCreek) of any unusualflare offs, power outages,shutdowns, expulsions orodours that are beingemitted from the PineRiver Gas Plant as to pre-vent residents in the areafrom puking their gutsout at the smell and leav-ing them with burningthroats and lungs for aday or two. Oh and tomove those darn warningsirens (or add some more)so if ever need be, the res-

idents at Stone Creekhave a fighting chance.Oh…and to publish theirair quality monitoringstation readings on aweekly basis.• The District of

Chetwynd TownCouncillors: to either a)change their regularmeeting time from 4:30pm to 6:30 pm thusallowing the public toactually attend a meet-ing of their local govern-ment or b) hire PeaceFMto videotape their regu-lar council meetings sothey can run on the localchannel on a regularbasis.• To Western Canadian

Coal, First Coal and othermassive mining conglom-erates who are expandingour economy and resid-

ing in and near our com-munity: to buck up somebucks to assist the town inits quest for expandinginfrastructure and hous-ing.• Chetwynd Chamber

of Commerce PresidentSheree Smith: To continueto challenge every singleresident in town to dotheir part in makingChetwynd a better placeto live, work and play.• To local merchants: to

embrace the Shop Localprogram, encourage theircustomers to shop at homeand offer them deals on aregular basis to do so.• And last, but not least,

the B.C. Teachers'Federation: To continue touse the students as pawnsand drag this strike out aslong as possible.

4 Friday, January 6, 2012 Chetwynd Echo

Publisher/Editor Naomi [email protected]@chetwyndecho.net

Reporter Elizabeth [email protected]

Office Manager Tammy [email protected] Naomi [email protected] Paula [email protected]

Published byDraperDobie&Company Inc.P.O. Box 750 • 5016 50thAvenue •BC•V0C 1J0

Phone: 250-788-2246Fax: 250-788-9988

OFFICE HOURS:Monday - Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Published Friday * exception to statutory holidays

Submission Deadline for AdvertisingTuesday before 4 pm

www.chetwyndecho.net

What was yourfavourite story of

2011?

Email [email protected] or log ontoour Facebook page. Your response could be

included in this space next week.

CHETWYNDECHONEWSPAPER New Year’s Resolutions for others

NOTABLYNOMI :)Naomi Larsen is Editor forthe Chetwynd Echo.Contact her at by phone at250.788.2246 or via [email protected]


You can email us at [email protected]; mail to Box 750 Chetwynd B.C.V0C 1J0 or drop of your letter at 5016 50 Avenue. All letters submitted must besigned with a return address and daytime telephone number so we can confirm

that it came from you. The Echo reserves the right to edit letters for clarity,legality, length and to refuse publication of any submitted material. We may

also choose to use a letter as the basis for a story. So, be sure to keep your let-ters brief and to the point. Letters originating from the Peace region get priori-ty. We encourage new contributors as we attempt to publish a cross-section of

public opinion.- Naomi Larsen, Editor

WESTJET IS THINKINGOF EXPANDING TO FSJ:

“fantastic, this is suchgood news, maybe theywill add Dawson Creekto the milk run. AirCanada FSJ toVancouver $880,Westjet Grande Prairieto Vancouver, $497, big-ger plane, betteramenities, better staff, I

love Westjet”-Barry

“ I really hope theyadd DC, that drive toFSJ in winter is horri-ble!!”

- Brenda

DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWYEAR’S RESOLUTIONS?SHARE THEM AND INSPIROTHERS!

“To love "ME" more!!!”- Krista

“To be healthy andhappy... And whatKrista says!!”

- Tammy

WHAT STORY FROM OUR

PAGES STOOD OUT THE MOST

TO YOU OVER 2011?

”The coverage of theflooding was remark-able!” - Heather

“Yes I would say theflood. Although the bitabout monthly prayer attown Hall raised an eye-brow!” - Barbara

LOG ONTO OUR FACE-BOOK PAGE FOR MORE DIS-CUSSION AND JOIN IN!PLEASE KEEP COMMENTSRESPECTFUL.

READERCOMMENTSfrom our Facebook page

To the Editor:BC’s population is

expected to reach 4.6 mil-lion this year (2012).That’s 1.7 million morepeople living in thisprovince than there werein 1984 when the lastmajor hydro dam wasbuilt. To put that popula-tion increase into perspec-tive, it’s the same asadding three and a halfnew cities the size ofSurrey in less than 30years. And these peopleall need electricity topower their lives.Back in 1984, BC had

power to spare, and theprovince was able toexport power and gener-ate revenue to help payfor public services likehealthcare and education.But that’s no longer thecase. BC barely has

enough generating capac-ity to meet demand now.And during most of thepast decade the provincehas had to import powerto supply the shortfall.There’s no question that

energy efficient appli-ances and devices, andother energy conservationefforts, have helped easethe burden on theprovince’s hydro damsover the past 30 years.But it should be obviousthat hydro dams built tosupply 3 million people,with a bit extra for export,can’t supply the energyneeds of 4.6 million peo-ple indefinitely regardlessof how many conserva-tion measures and energyefficiencies are imple-mented.The time has therefore

come to add a significant

amount of new generatingcapacity to the legacydams we received fromprevious generations andto avail ourselves of themany technological inno-vations that have occurredin the energy sector overthe past three decades.Wind, run-of-river, and

solar energy have allmade quantum leaps inrecent years and all canhelp to meet BC’s powerneeds with increasinglynegligible impacts. BC’spopulation will undoubt-edly continue to increasein the coming years, sothe sooner we get on withthings the sooner BC canget back to being a powerexporter rather than apower importer.

Christopher LawCoquitlam BC

The sooner we embrace green...

Flare offThe hills were alight west of town early Monday morning following a power out-age at Spectra Energy’s Pine River Gas Plant. Because of the outage the planthad to flare off the gas. The flame could be seen from as far away as Chetwynd- more than 30 km away. Due to a weather inversion, odour from the burnoff set-tled in the nearby valley. Photosubmitted


Nice location close to town. Thisrural location boasts a nice logbunkhouse for guests to stay in. Themanufactured home is bright and spa-cious, with a nice eat in kitchen.With220 amp servic. The property has achicken coop and horse enclosure.

$208,000 MLS 134028

2 Parcels of Land for SaleLot 2 - 4.62 acres

$36,000 MLS 129713Lot 3 - 4.62 acres

$34,000 MLS 129712Situated across from Natural SpringsGolf Course on S. Hwy 29, lots arecomparatively level to sloping andhave a good view. Call for full details.

Master bedroom has an ensuite andwalk-in closet. Pantry in the kitchen,a circular drive for easy access to andfrom the place. You can watch timego by on the large 12'x30' porch. Anarea is cleared and ready for a shop orgarage to be built.

$230,000 MLS 133581

Spacious home on over 10 acres. 3bedrooms, 2 baths, Woodstove inbasement. Hot tub sits 6-8 people.Spring fed water and 80x150 finishedhorse arena, 12x14 barn with haystorage attached. Fully fenced back-yard for kids and pets. Features out-door deck and undergroundsprinklers.$349,900 MLS 133780

1240 sq. ft. home on the north side ofMoberly Lake. Great home with largewindows facing the lake. 3 bedroomsup and 1 down, 2 and a half baths.Laminate and ceramic tile flooring.Walk-in basement, huge recreationroom with cozy pellet stove. Metalroof recently installed.$425,000 MLS 129065

Charming house with hardwoodflooring, needs a little TLC. A nicelarge backyard to enjoy the summertime days. The back deck is large,measuring 20'x16'. An easy walk tothe rec centre, library and schools.

$160,000 MLS 133459

Out in the country agricultural land.135 acres of cultivated, 85 acrescleared and 90 acres treed. Call todayday to come and view this land. Thisproperty has oil and gas revenue com-ing in every year at $4,000.00+.Crown land on 2 sides. Joins DistrictLot 3203 to the north. This can bepurchased on it's own or with DistrictLot 3204.$189,000 MLS 132781

110 Feet of waterfront property. 1152Square foot home set up on a fullbasement. Cozy woodstove in base-ment. (Wett inspected in 2010). Sitout on your deck and enjoy the tran-quil beauty of Moberly Lake. In-cludes a 24 x 16 guest cabin plus aboat house on the lake.$375,000 MLS 130355

1500 sq.ft. 1 + 2 bedroom home, on12.33 acres. Spacious kitchen, ce-ramic flooring, laminate. Livingquarters are on the upper level ofbuilding. Garage and large work-shop. 200Amp. Service. Full lengthlean-to on south side of building forstorage. Deep well-seller statesgood water.$369,900MLS 133575

5Acres of vacant land 1/2 block off ofthe main highway, just behind KFC.Zoned MI- Light Industrial! Ownerswill consider renting or leasing thisproperty. Contact the listing office formore information.$449,000 MLS 134143

149 Acres with a large 4 bedroom 3bath home. The home features a largekitchen with an island and a diningarea. Cozy livingroom with woodstove. The bedrooms are all upstairswith 2 baths up, one being an ensuite.Metal roof.

$349,000 MLS 130289

Five residential lot available in PinePark Subdivision. These lots are fullyserviced with water and sewer. Justwaiting for you to build on.

MLS 133495 & 133497$30,800 each

MLS 133491, 133493, 133496$36,300 each

1.6 acres with a small 2 bedroomhome, with a view of the valley. Cozywoodstove in living room. Lots offlowers, garden spot and fruit trees.Large workshop, garden shed andchicken coop. With a bit of tenderloving care this could be your newhome.

$125,000 MLS 133866

4 bedroom, 4 bathroom Cape Codhome. Hard wood floors , master bed-room with his and her closets, ensuite.Modern kitchen, stainless steel appli-ances. Large rec room / computerroom Combination heat, electric andpellet stove plumbed into furnace.Large decks on front and back ofhouse.$389,000 MLS 133573

3 + 2 bedrooms. Large family room inbasement with huge daylight windows.Heated 2 car garage. Jet tub in themainbath. Kitchen has lots of cupboardswith a walk-in pantry. Comes with 5appliances. New 2 tiered deck recentlyinstalled complete with aluminum rail-ing. Cozy in floor heating.

$374,000 MLS 134534

Great Location in the desirabledowntown area, with zoning allow-ing for an attached residence to livein. This property has a lot of possi-bilities with other businesses closeby; would make a great location fora business and you could live on thepremises.$35,500 MLS 133653

Your choice business or just the build-ing. ChetwyndAuto body is a well es-tablished business 75 x 150 steelbuilding with five 16 ft over headdoors. Full-y equipped body shop.Turn key operation. Call for full de-tails.$1,250,000 MLS 133944

This compact house still boasts somenice sized bedrooms. All this on onefloor for easy cleaning and up keep.For all those wanting to socialize thePub is close by so you don't have toworry about drinking and driving.Close to the desirable Crown Subwithout the high prices.$128,000 MLS 133374

Newer home for sale up on the hilloverlooking Chetwynd! Three bed-rooms and two baths. Open conceptlivingroom, dining room and kitchen.Laundry is on the main floor. Finishthe basement your way. Very wellbuilt home in the prime area

$230,000 MLS 134535

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

$225,000 MLS 133419

Ph. 250-788-1120 Fx. 250-788-1121www.remaxchetwynd.ca or www.realtor.ca

2201 HILLSIDE RD

6307 CAMPBELLROAD

4513 44 AVE 4609 47 AVE

5120 42ND ST

4741 48A ST

4725 WABI CRESCENT DL3204 DOUGLAS ROAD7267 PINEWOOD PLACE

4165 GAGNON RD

5121 44TH STREET

5153 45THAVE

5016 49 AVE

6172 WEST KURJATARD

PINE PARK SUB 52NDAVE

6942 S. MOBERLY LK RD

6493 WILDMARE SUB3747 BEDELLDRIVEHWY 29 S2242 GUILLET SUB

ACTION CHETWYND REALTY VenessaWeightman

NormaTowerMarleneBoelke

250-788-6325 250-788-5388 250-788-8833We out sell the competition 2 to 1. Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results.®

TRUCK DRIVERS CDHMAdonationAllison Singer,CDMHATournament

Director, accepts adonation in theamount of $1000from John Allen ofWalter Energy toassist all 7 teamswith hosting theirhome tourna-ments.”.

Photo submitted


Health factors to be examined in oil and gasEnergeticCity––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – Healthfactors related to the oiland gas industry areabout to receive a more indepth examination.On Tuesday, Jan.3, a

contract was awarded tothe Fraser Basin Council(FBC) for the first phase ofa human health riskassessment of oil and gasdevelopment in NortheastB.C.The assessment will

take place through threephases, with the first

phase consisting of a pub-lic and stakeholderengagement. Local citi-zens and interestedgroups will be able tooffer their concerns andexperiences with thedevelopment of NortheastB.C.’s resources.Peace River South MLA

Blair Lekstrom talks aboutthe benefits this study canprovide.“As a local MLAfor the region I’ve heardthis concern in the pas,and while I’m confidentthat the process is a safeone, the study will let us know if anything does

need to be changed.After public engage-

ment and identifying pub-lic concerns relating to oiland gas development, thesecond phase will includea human health riskassessment based on find-ings from the first phaseand a comprehensive sci-entific review of the evi-dence.The third and final

phase of the project willinclude reporting thefindings to the Province,stakeholders as well as thepublic.

Any parties interestedin participating in thepublic engagement areencouraged to do so. FBCwill meet with Citizen’sgroups, health profession-als, academics, non-prof-its, oil and gas representa-tives and any other inter-ested groups in NortheastBC.Peace River North Pat

Pimm says, “It is impor-tant that we take the timeto carefully consider allpublic-health aspectsrelated to oil and gasdevelopment and that is

just what this study willdo.”FBC was awarded the

$100,000 contract follow-ing a complete RFPprocess. The contract isfor the first phase of theassessment only and isestimated to be completedby March 31, 2012.A variety of methods

for input will be availableincluding post or onlineand for more informa-tion, visit the FraserBasin Council officialwebsite atwww.fraserbasin.bc.ca.

LEKSTROM

TheCCHETWYNDHETWYND

EECHOCHOdoesn’t just sell

advertising.WE CARE ABOUTYYOOUURR BUSINESS

Contact Paula Langille250-788-2246

[email protected]


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – This lat-

est edition of the ChetwyndEcho is our annual Year inReview issue–-a recap ofthe biggest stories that

took place in 2011 in andaround our community.In typical fashion our

community had its shareof some good news andsome not so good news.Between floods and fires

and denied work camps

and closed gas stations,2011 was an eventful - andsometimes frustrating -year for all of us.Each year we’ve done a

year in review we’ve cho-sen stories from eachweek and made one giant

story out of them. Thisyear we decided to divythem up month by monthand pick the top storiesfrom each.Ultimately what we’re

trying to do over the nextseveral pages is recapsome of the biggest thingsthat happened in our com-munity over 2011.

The upcoming yearpromises to be one ofchange and excitement forour community.With the economy

booming and new busi-nesses opening their door,2012 is lining up to be his-torical for our community- which is perfect timingsince it’s Chetwynd’s 50th

Anniversary this year.Whatever the outcome

of the next 12 months I’mpredicting some great sto-ries. We will tell them asthey unfold.So from all of us, to all of

our readers, enjoy the tripdown memory lane. Bring on 2012 and all of

it’s vibrant stories.


Looking back through out pages over 2011

Research shows people who read the newspaper are smart.You’re not going to argue with us on that one are you?

NEWSPAPERS. THE MOST TRUSTED MEDIUM.


–––––––––––––– PINE PASS – A major

avalanche shut down thePine Pass Sunday morn-ing 71 km north of theJunction with Highway39 south of the Junctionnear the access road toPowder King ski resort.The Ministry of

Transportation said theslide, rated a Class Two,is the biggest they’veseen in more than adecade.The area in and around

Chetwynd receivedmore than 25 cm of snowover the weekend insome places with morethan 60 cm falling in thepast week. Some long time resi-

dents say this is the mostsnow they’ve seen in aquarter century.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – As word

spread last week, theChetwynd Echo editor’scell and office phone wasawash with text messages:Is Tim Hortons finally com-ing to Chetwynd?The answer? Yes.The company is officially advertising

for 60 full-time workers to start as soonas possible. As soon, that is, as Canada’smuch-loved coffee shop and restaurantis constructed.The long-rumoured, much anticipat-

ed construction is set to begin later this

year.“Having Tim Horton’s in Chetwynd

will change how the rest of Canadaviews our community,” ChetwyndMayor Evan Saugstad said.District of Chetwynd Economic

Development Officer Ellen Calliou saidhaving another 60 jobs in Chetwynd is“amazing.”


TimHortonscoming toChetwynd?

Tim Hortons will bring 60 new jobsto Chetwynd.

Photo by Naomi Larsen

All washed up

The Chetwynd and District Recreation Centre official-ly opened its waterslide on Dec. 29. Mayor EvanSaugstad and Coucillor Laverne Norris took the firstride down the 53-metre slide on behalf of the CivicProperties Commission. Photo submitted

Avalancheblocks

Highway


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – Western

Canadian Coal’s (WCC)Brule Mine spent the firstpart of this week dealingwith a norovirus outbreaksituation.Media rep for WCC

David Jan said the out-break was discovered over

the weekend and the campwas closed entirelyMonday.“They’re disinfecting the

camp,” Jan saidWednesday. “And thenthere is a quarantine peri-od of three days.”Jan said they are contin-

uing to haul coal out how-ever there are no otheremployees on site.

Mine quarantined Winter mess socks ChetwyndBY NAOMI LARSEN

Chetwynd Echo Editor––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – That’s alot of snow.Last week started off with

some light flurries. It endedwith a major snowstorm.In the Chetwynd area res-

idents woke up to a flurryof snow that quickly burieddriveways and in some

cases the vehicles parked inthem.Doug Lundquist, a warn-

ing preparedness meteorol-ogists said the amount ofsnow that fell definitelybroke local records withSunday seeing the mostprecipitation in all ofJanuary.Lundquist said it started

snowing on Jan. 7 where

Chetwynd received 16.6 cm:Jan. 8 saw 1.8 cm; Jan. 9 saw2.4 cm; Jan. 10 saw .4 cm;Jan. saw two cm; Jan. 12 saw4.2 cm; Jan. 13 saw 3.2; Jan.14 saw 8.2; Jan. 15 saw eightcm and Jan. 16 saw 18.6 cm.Over the entire weekend

Lundquist said Chetwyndrecieved more than 35 cm ofsnowfall recorded at thelocal airport.

CMHA to host

provincialsBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – TheChetwynd and DistrictMinor HockeyAssociation (CMHA) hasbeen chosen to host thePeewee Tier 4 2011Championships March20-25.“This is an exciting

time for Chetwynd citi-zens and businessesalike,” association chairSheri Gagne said.

Deadly avalanche kills oneBY NAOMI LARSEN


TUMBLER RIDGE – A Grande Cache,Alberta man is dead following a deadlyavalanche near Tumbler Ridge Sundayafternoon.John Couture, 47 was swept up in the

slide that occurred in an alpine areaknown as Albright Ridge, an area wellused by snowmobilers around 23 kmaway from the mountain town.In a press release, RCMP Insp. Tim

Shields said later that evening policelearned from two men who had escapedthe slide, that a total of five people hadbeen caught in the avalanche. Three oth-ers, including one in serious distress,remained at the site while they went forhelp.The injured man had been dug out by

the survivors using avalanche beacons,probes and shovels from about twometers of snow and required CPR how-ever the man died.

Alice in Wonderland

Chetwynd Secondary School’s Drama Club performed the classicLewis Carroll Alice in Wonderland last week for one night.Above, the Chesire Cat, played by Dakota Apsassin keeps an eyeon Alice, played by Erika Helset. Photo by Naomi Larsen


!"#$%&'(!)###'##(*+,-+-,(./-0*(1234&("#(516*(

7/&845'(&&*9*'(.4-42+3*'(*12436(./-0*4*'(

&424&&1:(./-0*4*;(*34156(7/&8;(!

!(

(

</=91-6(31-8(3&0<8(5&+>4&*(((

<%4376-5?(517*/-(<&448(1-5(1&41(

!

"#$!%#&'(!)*%!&!+*,-.$#%/0!12-1!3&(2,-!4&%##%!52$1!&!%&32'+(!

#63&,'2,-!7&,8!7%948!:*/3&,(;!

!

6@A(%BCDE((

!

! <.=!(#&%>?!#63#%2#,4#!2,!$&,8!$%948!'%2@2,-!*%!&,!#A9&++(!

41&++#,-2,-!)2#+'!

! B!>$%*,-!>&)#$(!%#4*%'!

! B!>$%*,-!4*//2$/#,$!$*!49>$*/#%!>#%@24#0!>&)#$(!&,'!

3%*)#>>2*,&+2>/!

!

C#,'!%#>9/#>!&,'!&D>$%&4$>!D(!#/&2+!$*(FBGDDGHIJKLM'FB!

*%!D(!)&6!$*!EF<.G=F.HIFJ!

!

!"#$%&"#'$"#(")'*#+,-#"./"0'#'$"#(")'* !

The politicalrace is on

BY JAMIE WOODFORDDawson Creek Daily

News––––––––––––––

PEACE REGION – Thesix Conservative Partycontenders hoping to runfor the Prince George -Peace River Member ofParliament position gotthe official word that therace is on.The nomination period

to replace former MP JayHill is now open.Nominations will be

accepted until Feb. 14,after which selected can-didates will have 21 days

to campaign before partymembers hold a vote onMar. 7.So far, six people have

confirmed they will berunning for theConservative nomina-tion including Fort St.John city CouncillorsDan Davies and DonIrwin, Fort St. Johnteacher Bob Zimmer,Tumbler RidgeCouncillor JerrilynSchembri, former PrinceGeorge Mayor ColinKinsley and PrinceGeorge city CouncillorCameron Stoltz.

TeleOncology room now operational in ChetwyndBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND –Cancer patients in theChetwynd area will havegreater access to cancercare professionalsthrough videoconferenc-ing equipment that isnow in operation at theChetwynd Hospital andHealth Centre."TeleOncology pro-

vides care closer to home

for cancer patients andtheir families," HealthServices Minister ColinHansen said in a recentpress release."Videoconference con-sultations connectpatients with specialistsand other clinicians inmajor centres, reducingthe need to travel asoften for medicalappointments."The unit is also

portable.

Chetwynd Hospital Site Manager Rick Bruce says themachine is in full operation and being used regularly.


Sister speedskaters compete on world stageBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – The FifthAnnual International

Children’s Games tookplace in Kelowna lastmonth and two ofChetwynd’s own speed-skaters – Kaila and Kacy

Keutzer – took part, withKaila beating out theKorean team and takinghome a silver medal.The Keutzers were just

two of 470 athletes repre-senting 38 cities from 13countries around the worldto compete in the week-long world stage event.

WCC secures capacity on coastPrince George Citizen

–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – Western Coal has

signed a new agreement with RidleyTerminals in Prince Rupert to ensure itcan ship coal from its expanding opera-tions in Northern B.C.The agreement will also help Ridley

Terminals, a federal Crown corporation,

make a case to expand capacity at itsfacility.The latest contract would tap out

Ridley's 12-million-tonnes-a-year capac-ity, a concern to Teck Resources, which isexamining a plan to re-open itsQuintette mine in the Tumbler Ridgearea, 150 kilometres north of PrinceGeorge.

GE to invest in firm’s wind projectThe Province––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – A unit of GeneralElectric Co. plans to invest $40 million ina wind-energy project being developedin northern B.C. by Finavera WindEnergy Inc., the small developer said onTuesday.

GE Energy Financial Services hasagreed to the indicative terms of anequity investment in a 77-megawattWildmare project that Finavera plans tobuild near Chetwynd. The long-awaited news propelled

Finavera's stock 20-percent higher onthe TSX Venture Exchange.

Thrift Store donation bin evictedBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – The TLCCommunity Thrift Storehas found it necessary to

remove its donation binfrom outside the buildingdue to misuse and abuse.Thrift Store Manager

Rebekah Hallaert said it’sat the point now where

they have no choice in thematter due to the amountof household garbage andin some cases, animal car-casses and human feces,that get tossed in the box.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – For her

nearly three decades ofwork and devotion to thecommunity, long time resi-dent and local town coun-cillor Brenda Maisey near-ly fell off her chairThursday evening whenher name was called toaccept the Citizen of theYear award from theChetwynd Chamber ofCommerce.Maisey was attending

the annual Civic NightAwards when she washonoured.“It was the least of my

expectations tonight,”Maisey said. “When Juliastarted describing this per-son who had lived inChetwynd for 30 yearsand had done all of this…I thought oh my good-

ness…it’s actually me?”A visually emotional

Maisey accepted heraward to a fanfare ofapplause and was “for thefirst time in years, speech-less.”

Other winners:HEROES LIVE HERE: Don Harris and Annette

Carter, Let ‘er Rip CountryVOLUNTEER OF THE

YEAR: Ed Bodo

JR. CITIZEN OF THEYEAR:

Jordy HeckerCENTURY CITIZEN OFTHE YEAR: Jack WoodBUSINESS OF THEYEAR: SuperValu

CUSTOMER SERVICEREP OF THE YEAR:

Natasha Shepherd, PomeroyInns and Suites.

FAMILY FRIENDLYBUSINESS: The Chetwynd

Echo

11Chetwynd Echo Friday, January 6, 2012

Clark becomes PremierBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – Thevoters have spoken.Former deputy pre-

mier Christy Clark haswon the B.C. Liberalleadership on the thirdballot and will succeedGordon Campbell as pre-

mier.Campbell resigned last

fall over the HST. It isunknown when he willtransfer power.Clark, who won with

4,420 points, beat outKevin Falcon (4,080points), George Abbott(2,091 points) and Mikede Jong (789 points).

Brenda Maisey 2010 Citizen of the Year

WCC donates $15,000 toNorthern Lights College

Submitted––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – A$15,000 contribution fromWestern Coal Corp. willhelp to furnish the newAboriginal GatheringSpace being constructedat the Chetwynd Campusof Northern Lights

College (NLC).During a presentation

ceremony on Feb. 22,Keith Calder, Presidentand Chief ExecutiveOfficer of Western Coal,explained that providingsupport to this new facili-ty was one that madesense to his company.

It was a “Nam” good time

Prince George Citizen––––––––––––––

FORT. ST. JOHN – FortSt. John teacher and car-penter Bob Zimmer will bethe Conservative Party'snext candidate for thePrince George-Peace Riverriding. After six counts of the

ballots and five candidatesdropped from the running,

Zimmer received a total of689 votes and second-placeDan Davies received 459votes. The Conservativeriding association is notreleasing the first-roundresults from the vote. Just over 1,350 ballots

were cast, representingapproximately 40 per centof the Conservative Partymembers in the riding. Twelve-year-old Nam Nguyen, 2011 Canadian Junior Men’s Figure Skating

Champion is held in high regard by members of the Little Giant Figure SkatingClub Saturday. Nguyen was the guest skater at this year’s end of season show,Under the Big Top. Nguyen is youngest ever to win all titles of Juvenile Men, Pre-Novice Men, Novice Men and Junior Men in the history of Canadian FigureSkating. Photo submitted

Blair’sbackBY NAOMI LARSEN


VICTORIA – PremierChristy Clark announcedMonday a new, smallercabinet with only 17 seatsas opposed to 24.“Our new cabinet will

reflect the priorities ofBritish Columbians andput families at the centreof all our decision-mak-ing,” Clark said.“Together, we will focuson creating jobs andbuilding a strong econo-my because that is the sin-gle most important thingwe can do to support fam-ilies and ensure we caninvest in critical serviceslike health and education.This is a team that willwork hard to ensure thatprosperity and opportuni-ty extend to every regionof our province.”

Work campdenied bycouncil


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A group of

45th Avenue residents hadtheir wish granted Mondayafternoon after Chetwynd

District Council declined alocal construction company’srequest for a 21-person, two-year work camp.Council had received the

application from MoberlyLake Construction Ltd.

Bob Zimmer ‘amazed’ bynomination win

Dokie Wind onlineVancouver Sun––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – PlutonicPower Corporation hascompleted the startup ofits 43-turbine wind farmat Dokie Ridge and is sell-ing energy to BC Hydrounder a 25-year energy

purchase agreement. The$228-million project, builtby Plutonic and financedby partner GE EnergyFinancial Services, has acapacity of 340,000megawatt hours a year,enough energy to supplythe needs of 34,000 homes

Chetwynd EchoFriday, January 6, 201212

CHETWYNDSunday, Jan. 29, 2012

w a l k f o r m e m o r i e s . c o m1 - 8 0 0 - 6 6 7 - 3 7 4 2

Get Involved - Walk - Donate - Volunteer - Sponsor

The 2012 Chetwynd Walk honours

Del Anderson

Walk Location:Chetwynd Legion

4511 South Access Road 250-788-2644

One in three Canadians knows someone with Alzheimer’s disease – who do you know?

Walk: Noon - 2 p.m.Pancake Breakfast: 10 a.m.

NYWTHECJan. 29, 2012, ySunda

DNJan. 29, 2012

..m poon - 2Nalk: W

Jan. 29, 2012, ySunda

Jan. 29, 2012

klaw

012 Chetwynd he 2TWalk honours hWalk

nosrednl AeD

.0 a.mt: 1fasreake BcakanP

c.seim o remo rf2473-76- 6008-1

One in three ws Canadians kno

meone with soAlzheimer’s disease

w? you kno– who do

o mc

Willow Creek shut down following accidentsBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – WesternCanadian Coal’s (WCC)Willow Creek mine hasbeen shut down until fur-ther notice following aseries of accidents– one of

which saw an entire D10-bulldozer disappear into asinkhole Monday.WCC Vice President Bob

Bayes said the incident was‘very scary’.Prior to this incident

Bayes said there were twoothers in the last month that

resulted in lost time injuries.One employee was on his

machine and according toBayes “did not maintainthree-point contact orslipped during an icier peri-od of time about a monthago and jumped off themachine and landed and

cracked both heels.”A third incident occurred

when a surveyor on a stockpile “and was in an areawhere he shouldn’t havebeen to begin with” andslid off cracking a bone inhis leg and a fracturing avertebrae.

Spectra todivert Pine

RiverBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – In aneffort to repair a portionof their pipeline, SpectraEnergy will be dammingand redirecting a portionof the Pine River laterthis year.Spectra Energy Team

Leader Troy Wilfur saidduring a 2006 in-lineinspection betweenWillow Flats and the PinePass one of their smarttools they run throughthe pipe system theyfound a ‘feature’ theyhad to look at – smackdab in the middle of thePine River about 52 kmfrom Chetwynd.

Bioenergy project chosenas preferred proponentBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – WestFraser Mills (WFM) Ltd.Proposed Bioenergy Plantproject has recently beenchosen as a preferred pro-ponent and has proceededto the next phase of nego-tiating an EnergyPurchase Agreement.WFM Woodlands

Manager Jesse Rashkespoke to the District ofChetwynd councilMonday afternoon. Hesaid the 5MW to 10 MWplant would utilize thesawmill waste presentlybeing burned in the bee-hive burner and a compo-nent of the required fuelwould be from loggingresidual wastes takenfrom the logging site.

Demolitionunderwayfor eyesore


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The for-

mer Motor Inn in down-town Chetwynd will bedemolished under a$435,000 agreementannounced Monday after-noon at a special Districtof Chetwynd councilmeeting.The contract for the

demolition was awardedto Chetwynd River RockSand and Gravel.Chetwynd Mayor Evan

Saugstad said demolitioncould begin as early asMay with completion asearly as July.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – Finavera

Wind Energy held an openhouse Monday evening atthe Chetwynd and DistrictRecreation Centreannouncing that theBritish ColumbiaE n v i r o n m e n t a l

Assessment Office (EAO)has formally accepted thecompany's application foran environmental assess-ment certificate for theproposed 77-megawatt(MW) Wildmare WindEnergy project.According to a recent

press release, the applica-tion review process for the

project officially began onApril 1. The ApplicationReview stage must becompleted in a maximumof 180 days. After thereview stage is complete,they will be considered bythe Ministers for anE n v i r o n m e n t a lAssessment certificate(maximum 45 days).

Finavera project enters EA stage

Demolition began in Julyand was complete by endof August.



–––––––––––––– PINE PASS – The driver of a crane

truck suffered serious injuriesSunday after the rig he was drivinglost control and overturned on Highway 97, 90 kilometres south of Chetwynd.According to local RCMP the rig slid for about 100 metres before coming to a stopand leaving debris along the highway.

Chetwynd Echo Friday, January 6, 2012 13

Now HiringEarly Childhood Educator

Little Lights DaycareJob Description: plan and develop curriculum fordaycare and enrichment program; work with othereducators to provide curriculum and care for daycareand enrichment program; provide supervision andguidance for daily activities and fieldtrips; workco-operatively with a non-profit board of directorsQualifications:• early childhood education diploma/license• first aid certificate• criminal record check clearance• proof of up to date immunizations• quick decision making and problem solving skills• ability to work in team environment• excellent communication skills

Start date is ASAP. Wage will be set according toeducation, skills and experience. Please submit yourresume with a cover letter to Little Lights Daycare.

Fax 250-788-2400 or mail to:Box 2501 Chetwynd, BC V0C 1J0

If you are looking for an Exciting Career with an enthusiastic and growing organization combined with an Opportunity which is more than just a

you will want to investigate the opportunities within CE Franklin. We are looking for enthusiastic people who want to be part of a team devoted to generating the best customer service in the marketplace! We have openings in our Chetwynd, BC branch encompassing many career opportunities. Knowledge and experience in the oil industry is an asset; however, training will be provided. Eagerness to learn, a willingness to work as part of a team is integral to success here. CE Franklin offers competitive salary commensurate with experience, profit sharing, RRSP matching, Flex Days, comprehensive benefits and in house training. Join us - you'll win too.

For more information or submit resume to: CE Franklin Chetwynd

Email: [email protected]

NOW HIRING in CHETWYND!

Peace River riding stayed true blueBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND –Canadians voted onMonday in one of theirmost unpredictable elec-tions ever and in the end,

history was made with aConservative majority gov-ernment and an NDPopposition.At the 258 Royal

Canadian Legion voterswere lined up waiting tomark their ‘X’ on the candi-

date of their choice.Here in the Prince

George – Peace River rid-ing Conservative candidateBob Zimmer swept thepolls with more than 60 percent of the vote (23,946).NDP candidate Lois Boone

followed behind with 25per cent (9,876).According to Elections

Canada numbers, voterturnout was up in the rid-ing – 53.9 per cent of votersturned out to the polls inPrince George-Peace River.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – On Sunday

morning the Fraser Institute

released its annual report rankingthe province’s high schools frombest to worst.According to its data, Chetwynd

Secondary School is sitting near the

bottom, ranking 266 out of 274. Italso experienced a decline in theiroverall ranking out of 10, coming inat a paltry 2.9 – the lowest rankingin the last five years.

No full marks for CSS for annual Fraser Institute report card

Crane crashin Pine Pass

The Pine River rose fourfeet overnight strandingtwo campers in Hasler.Wildmare Photography


–––––––––––––– HASLER – Two May Long weekend

campers had to be rescued Monday

morning after the Pine River overflowedits banks near Hasler Flats leaving themstranded in their hunting cabin. Waterlevels came up more than four feetovernight following heavy rainfall.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – More

than 128 millimetres ofrain fell over the week-end in and aroundChetwynd sending localand rivers cascadingover their banks andlocal roadways eradi-

cating anything in thepath.According to

Environment Canada,the weather station atMt. Lemoray receivedthe most rain in theregion in three days at161.8 mm.Hudson’s Hope saw

126.2 mm over the same

period and B.C. Hydroreports the WillistonReservoir increased byalmost a foot and a halffrom Friday toSaturday. Fort St. John had a

total of 114.9 mm dur-ing the storm andDawson Creek had 82.4mm.

Canadian Press––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – TheConservative government

brandished the sword ofback-to-work legislationfor the second time in aweek Monday, this time toforce an end to theCanada Post lockout. If the two sides can't

agree to their own deal by

the time the bill passes, itwill be up to an arbitratorto decide which side hasthe better offer."The job action had

already cost Canada Post$100 million in lost rev-enue.


West Moberly FirstNations wins appeal


–––––––––––––– MOBERLY LAKE – The

British Columbia Court ofAppeal issued reasons forjudgment in a precedentsetting victory by WestMoberly First Nations toprotect endangered caribouin north-eastern BritishColumbia. At dispute was whether

BC had meaningfully con-sulted and accommodatedWest Moberly by approv-ing coal-mining exploration

proposed by First CoalCorporation (FCC). Thecoal exploration activitieswould destroy critical win-ter habitat for the endan-gered Burnt Pine caribouherd. Currently the herdhas less than 10 caribou init. West Moberly First

Nations Chief RolandWillson said both WestMoberly and provincialbiologists have been tryingfor years to recover declin-ing caribou herds in thenortheast.

Master Carver Chris Foltz of Oregon, above, was hon-oured with first place, Carver’s Choice and People’sChoice at this year’s International Chainsaw CarvingChampionship with his eight-foot tall praying mantis.For more coverage, see inside. Photos by Naomi Larsen

Skate & Bike Jam

The “Ride Your Heart Out” Bike and Skate Park host-ed a skills competition Sunday. Riders from aroundthe Peace took part, including local BMXer DillonJoseph. Photos by Naomi Larsen

Back-to-work legislation put forth for

Canada Post

Flood wreaks havoc


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – Chetwynd Mayor Evan Saugstad is

estimating damages to be in the millions of dollars fol-lowing massive flooding over the weekend that cata-pulted the town into a Level II emergency.Saugstad said while water is beginning to subside, it

could be weeks before things are back to normal. And as

of Tuesday afternoon, things took a turn for the worseagain.“We believed that after the heavy rains subsided and

the water levels began to recede that we would be ableto move into the ‘Recovery’ phase of our emergencyand scale down our response,” Saugstad said. “Buttoday, major problems surfaced with our sewer systemthat will result in us remaining in the emergency‘Response mode’ for some time.”

Saugstad stated that some residents have been evac-uated from their residences as a result of sewage back-up into their buildings and/or the lack of a functioningsewage system, and are now being housed in localhotels.“We thank our residents for their patience and

understanding while we continue to work through thisdisaster,” he said.

Record rainfall douses Peace

Roads take flood beatingBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – Clean upis well under waythroughout the PeaceRegion after weekenddownpours and floodingsevered major routesheading into and out ofthe Peace River region.Crews are working

around the clock to restoreaccess to more than a 16 ofstretches of washed-outroads along Highway 97

between MackenzieJunction and Chetwyndwell as along Highway 29between Chetwynd andHudson's Hope. Thebiggest issue for theMinistry is the repair ofthe bridge crossing FisherCreek, 52 km south ofChetwynd. It was washedearly Saturdaym cuttingoff access to the Pine Pass.There is currently nodetour and no estimate onwhen the route willreopen.


Shout it out loud

KISSrocks Encana Centre

At 61-years-old Gene “The Demon”Simmons has still got it. Simmonsand his bandmates Paul Stanley, EricSinger and Tommy Thayer rocked theDawson Creek Encana Events Centrelast Thursday. More than 6,000 mem-bers of the KISS Army attended theshow - one of the biggest ever hostedby the centre.


Errant confetti cannonblows transformer


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – As resi-

dents and visitors alikelined the streets to takepart in the town’s 49th

Annual Canada DayParade Friday morning, astreamer from a misfiredconfetti cannon hit atransformer and causedan hour-long power out-age.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – After a mudslide derailed a train

near Mt. Lemoray June 25 and wiped out dozens ofportions of track, CN spokesperson Kelli Svendsensays everything is up and running back to normal.“The line opened at 7:30 at night on Friday July 1,”

she said. “We worked around the clock.”

CN service restored

Highway 97 between Chetwynd and MackenzieJunction is open with traffic piloted through the workzones from both the north and south ends. A single laneis open to passenger vehicles and to commercial vehi-cles with legal weights and dimensions, single trailerunits only. Photo by Naomi Larsen

Joining the queue

Mother Nature continues her deluge of the PeaceAlaska Highway News

–––––––––––––– PEACE REGION. –

Rains continued to drenchthe Peace over the week-end adding more flow tothe region's already surg-ing creeks and rivers. TheB.C. River Forecast Centreobserved the most rain fell

in the southern and east-ern portions of the regionwith 70 mm falling inDawson Creek and 65 mmin Chetwynd. Rains werealso heavy in the NorthPeace with more than 70mm recorded at the airportin Fort St. John.After water levels in the

Pine River only just startedfalling from the heavy rainevent in late June, the cen-tre measured a two-yearflow, with levels rising at arate of 15 cm an hourbetween Friday andSaturday.The Moberly River rose

at a rate of 1-2 cm an hour,

marking a five-year flow.The Kistkatinaw showedjust over five-year flows.While 36 mm of precipita-tion was recorded at theHalfway River, near FarrelCreek, the centre didn'treport the same rise inwater levels and was clas-sified as stable.

Construction continues

Crews worked aroundthe clock to repair thewashouts including thisone near Hasler thattook down a large por-tion of the mountainand highway.

Photo submitted

Clinic facing severe shortageBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – If you have tried toget in to see a doctor in Chetwynd, youknow how tough that can be.With the Chetwynd Medical Clinic

booking more than a month inadvance, residents are frustrated, doc-tors are burning out and staff is doingwhatever they can to try and recruitdoctors to the community.

Currently, there are only three doc-tors – Dr. DeJager, Dr. Schreve and Dr.Venter – serving the community, ‘ifwe’re lucky,” clinic office managerJody Johanson said, adding each doc-tor has a patient load of more than2,000.Johanson said ideally there the com-

munity should have five physiciansserving the area that includesHudson’s Hope, Moberly Lake, LonePrairie, East Pine and Hasler.

And so itbegins...

Demolition and breaking ground has begun at theproposed FasGas and Tim Horton’s site. No wordyet on an official opening. Photo by Naomi Larsen


Xstrata Coal keen to buy First CoalBY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – FirstCoal has received an offerof purchase from XstrataCoal, one of the worldslargest coal producers. Theoffer is expected to befinalized by First Coal’sshareholders mid-August.“I think overall, and

given the circumstancesFirst Coal has found them-selves in their court battleswith West Moberly and allthat, the money and thetime it takes to untangleall that, or build good rela-tionships, I think you maysee this as a real positive,”said Mayor EvanSaugstad.

PRRD directors not yieldingquietly to CN Rail

BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

PEACE REGION – Peace River Regional Districtdirectors are not yielding quietly to CN Rail’s choicenot to use the line between Hythe and Dawson Creek.A decision was made at the July 28 meeting to moveforward with a committee to address their concernsregarding the region’s rail lines.While those in attendance were focused on whether

or not keeping the line was commercially sound andwhether or not CN had an obligation to leave the lineopen, Chetwynd Mayor Evan Saugstad noted a verydifferent set of priorities when asked about the issue afew days later.“I’m more concerned about looking at our rail cross-

ings and the maintenance and some of the issues ofinterface between the rail and the people,” he said.The discussion was triggered by a letter from CN

senior vice president Michael Cory in response to aregional district request for CN to reassess their deci-sion not to use that line in light of increasing industri-al activity in the area.

BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – Therestoration of infrastruc-ture damaged by July del-uges will take months tocomplete said Minister ofTransportation BlairLekstrom.“It will be some time

before it is back to the wayit was before MotherNature dealt us those rain-storms.”

Reports from theMinistry indicate that thework in the Pine Pass isfocused on restoring twofull lanes of paved surfaceby this fall with work in thePine Pass consists of stabi-lizing landslide areas andrebuilding sections of roadthat were washed out.“I’ve been here all my life

and I’ve never seen any-thing like that,” saidLekstrom.

Pine Pass repairs ongoing

High CountryInn razed

Excavators tore at the walls of the old High Country Inn this week as demolitionbegan. The old hotel has been a part of Chetwynd’s downtown village-scape for sev-eral decades. The building has been shut down since the fall of 2006 and hasremained vacant ever since. The land has been purchased and the new owner doeshave plans for redevelopment. Photo by Naomi Larsen

Lekavy performs swimmingly at nationals

Anotherone bitesthe dust

The old Windrem Hotelcame down last weekhowever removal of thedebris will take some timedue to issues surroundingasbestos.Photo by Naomi Larsen

NDPleaderJackLaytondeadBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – Leader ofthe federal New DemocratParty Jack Layton passedaway Monday morningwith family by his side atthe age of 61.Layton was diagnosed

with cancer one month ago.This was the second timehe fought the disease.

More than1.6 millionHST votesreturned

BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

VICTORIA – Returnedballot packages revealvoter turnout for the 2011HST Referendum.“Our preliminary

analysis indicates thatmore than 1.6 million reg-istered voters returnedHST Referendum BallotPackages by the deadlineof 4:30 p.m., Aug. 5,” saidacting chief electoral offi-cer Craig James. In comparison, the

mail-based 2002 TreatyNegotiations Referendumsaw 790,182 voting pack-ages returned. As of July 22 there were

3,063,170 registered vot-ers.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – After

becoming the first-evermember of the ChetwyndElectric Eels to reach anational final with finalqualification time at

provincials last month,14-year-old KelleeLekavy competed at theAge Group nationalchampionships inMontreal July 27-31.“I was pretty nervous,”

she said. “I didn’t reallyhave any other people to

hang out with. It was allgood and I got overthat.”While Lekavy didn’t

come home with a medal,she swam five events andwent best times in two ofher swims: the 100m freeand 200m breaststroke.

Postmedia News––––––––––––––

SPARWOOD – Police made no arrangements witha man suspected of abducting a three-year-old andwere surprised to find the boy returned to hisSparwood, B.C., family home Sunday unharmed.In a news conference Tuesday evening, RCMP

Insp. Brendan Fitzpatrick said Randall Hopley wasarrested Tuesday morning for the kidnapping ofKienan Hebert.Fitzpatrick said a list of charges will be released

when they are formally laid.The officer denied there was any deal made between

the RCMP and Hopley to bring the abducted childback to his parents.


BCNU president “appalled”atChetwynd hospital staffingBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – BCNurses Union presidentDebra McPherson spentFriday in town at theChetwynd and DistrictHospital meeting with localnurses and their union aspart of tour of NortheasternBritish Columbia.McPherson said the

union represents more than300 worksites throughoutBC and as president thetour allows her to meetwith union members face toface – especially in ruralareas.McPherson said she was

impressed withChetwynd’s hospital andfacility however she was“appalled” to learn for the

seven long-term care bedsand the seven in-patientbeds and the eight emer-gency bays “there’s onlyone registered nurse onduty.”She said sometimes

there are two, but when

one is away, they are notreplaced.“So I asked what hap-

pens when the emergencyis busy, who looks after theinpatients and the longterm care? And I was toldwhoever is left.”

Energy Critic John Horgan visits PeaceBY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

FORT ST. JOHN – Energy Critic JohnHorgan brought an anti-Liberal policystance to the Peace Region Aug. 24. In aFort St. John meeting Horgan talkedabout the failure of the Liberal BCHydro self-sufficiency policy as well asoffering some NDP perspectives andtaking advantage of an admittedly ban-ner-waving, pre-election opportunityfor his party.“One of the advantages we have as a

non-incumbent party in the region isthat there’s a significant amount of dis-satisfaction with BC Liberal policies –maybe not necessarily with Pat Pimmand Blair Lekstrom as individuals butwith the profound disconnect with thepeople and the party that’s governingBC,” said Horgan. “If we’re going to make inroads in

the Peace, we have to come anddemonstrate that we understandwhat’s going on here – walk the walknot just talk the talk.”

The Pine Valley Motorsports Club held their sixth annual Motocross Race last week-end at the local track. Photos by Naomi Larsen

BCTF labour feud continues as BC students take their seatsBY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – It couldbe a long and challengingschool year says School

District 59 assistant superin-tendent Rob Dennis. The BC Teachers’

Federation gave strikenotice Sept. 6 which

launched the first phase ofjob action.“We’ve seen this before…

and we’ll put what we needinto place in order to sustain

the education and safety ofthe kids.”The initial impact will be

that teachers will not be per-forming administrative

tasks such as filling outforms, collecting data, meet-ing with principals or otheradministrators, supervisingon playgrounds, or writing

report cards. If no collective agreement

is reached, phase two willcommence – typically an allout strike.

Massive housingcrunch in ChetwyndBY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – TheDistrict of Chetwynd’snewly completed hous-ing study shows a criticalneed for housing thanany one sector may havebeen aware of.Economic development

coordinator Ellen Calliousays: “The number ofpeople that are comingand we’re turning away

from not being able tostay here is alarming sothe one thing we’re reallytrying to get out there isthat we need housing…In my office right now, ona regular basis, wereceive three to fourphone calls where we’reactually turning peopleaway that are relocatingsomewhere else becausethey cannot find housinghere.

Hopley captured Willow Mine expansiongiven go-ahead

BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – TheWillow Creek Mineexpansion planned forearlier this year has final-ly been given the goahead.“The mine expansion

permit for Willow Creekwas issued in June. Thiswas delayed from our

earlier expectation, butwelcome news none-the-less,” said Bob Bays, vicepresident for Operation.The mine has now

moved forward withwhat Walter Energy calls“ambitions expansionplans”. The plans includebuilding roads, ponds,offices and an upgrade oftheir preparation plant.

Got News? Call 250-788-2246


Hours:Sun: 9:00 am – 1:00 amMon: 7:00 am – 1:00 amTue: 7:00 am – 3:00 amWed: 7:00 am – 3:00 amThu: 7:00 am – 3:00 amFri: 7:00 am – 3:00 amSat: 9:00 am – 3:00 amWe accept Taxi Saver Coupons

Call us for:•Hotshots •Crew Transport •Pilot car

44774455 -- 5511 SSttrreeeett778888--11000099

Computers, peripherals,software, andaccessories

“Putting computers andcustomers together and servicing

the products as well”

M&JCOMPUTERSM & J

Computers

PPiiccttuurree FFrraammiinngg,, MMaatt CCuuttttiinngg,, PPrriinnttss,,

PPoosstteerrss && DDrryy MMoouunnttiinngg

Located In the Home Hardware Building

Chetwynd, BC250-788-9373

CUSTOM FRAMING

signatureSIGNS

since 1990Commercial & Industrial Sign ManufactureCut Vinyl, Digital Printing, Decals & MoreLocated in the Home Hardware Building

Chetwynd, BC

250-788-9373

$10aweek

Place your Business in Ask the

Professionals for only $10/week.

Call Sarah for more info today.

788-2246

NNaaoommiiLLaarrsseenn

PPhhoottooggrraapphhyy••

225500--778888--33999922••

CChheecckk mmee oouutt oonn FFaacceebbooookk

Box 870Chetwynd, BC

V0C 1J0Ph: 250-788-3345Fx: 250-788-3655

www.chetwyndchamber.ca

“The voice oflocal business”

This spot could beyours for $10/week.Includes centrespot rotation. Call Paula today 250-788-2246

Janette [email protected]

ISN®, COR, SECOR, ISO, AISCSafety and Quality Certification Preparation

Box 223 Hudson’s Hope, BC V0C 1V0

250-783-9273www.jetsue.ca

GERRY GAUDET, ManagerBus: (250) 788-2067Fax: (250) 788-2524Email: [email protected]

Box 2674809 S. Access Road

Chetwynd, BC V0C 1J0

Happy Holidaysfrom all of us to

all of you!



$10aweek

Place your Business in Ask the

Professionals for only $10/week.

Call Sarah for more info today.

788-2246


www.chetwyndecho.net 250-788-2246

StayConnectedsportscoverage

food anddining

local eventsand entertainment

communityandregionalnews

lifestylefeatures

In print, online or on the go, the Chetwynd EchoChetwynd Echo keeps you connected to what’s happening in your community and around the Peace.

The Chetwynd EchoThe Chetwynd EchoEnjoy the convenience of home delivery.for just $52.50/year (and you get yourpaper a day early!)

DAWSON CREEK DAILYNEWS

–––––––––––––– Along with electing

mayoral and city councilrepresentatives in theupcoming municipal elec-tions slated for Nov. 19,voters in the Peace Regionwill also be selecting their

local school board trusteesHowever for the Peace

River South SchoolDistrict, many representa-tives have already beendecided. In fact, the onlyarea of School District 59to carry a school trusteeelection will be the city ofDawson Creek.

Sorene Kampen andAnita Prescott will occupythe two seats awarded toChetwynd and its con-tiguous rural area, Kampen will be starting

her second term inChetwynd, but has over30 years experience work-ing for the school district.


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A Moberly Lake resident has been

arrested and charged with numerous offences in rela-tion to allegedly laundering money from Three NationVentures.Over the course of 14 months, RCMP say 40-year-

old Nicole Coutoreille of Moberly Lake used chequesto fraudulently obtain approximately $250,000 fromher former employer.


Lieutenant Governor opens AboriginalGathering Space at NLC CampusSubmitted

–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The

Honourable Steven L.Point, LieutenantGovernor of BritishColumbia, joined withapproximately 50 guests

to celebrate the opening ofthe Aboriginal GatheringSpace at the ChetwyndCampus of NorthernLights College on Sept. 30.Point was joined by

Chief Harley Davis(Saulteau First Nation),

Councillor Theresa Davis(Moberly Lake FirstNation), and NLC’s BoardChair Edith Leer,President Laurie Rancourtand Aboriginal EducationCoordinator HenrietteLandry to cut the ribbon.

Moberly Lake residentarrested in $250,000

fraud case

TalismanEnergydonates$35,000 toGatheringSpaceSubmitted

–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A gener-

ous donation fromTalisman Energy Inc. hasallowed Northern LightsCollege to install a ventila-tion system in the newAboriginal GatheringSpace at the ChetwyndCampus.The $35,000 donation

covers the cost of theequipment and installa-tion. The ventilationequipment allows theCollege to host traditionalcultural ceremonies, suchas smudging, within theGathering Space.

Largest harvest ever on proposed Site C land

Dawson Creek DailyNews

–––––––––––––– HUDSONS HOPE –

Nick Parsons was proud tosee his oat crop skyrocketto an unprecedentedheight this season, but thefertile land he planted it onmay soon be destroyed.The valley will be flood-

ed to create a reservoir forthe proposed Site C dam, ifBC Hydro has its way.The Farmington grain

grower's lush crop shot upover one and a half metres

high - the tallest the 63-year-old farmer has everseen.Parsons attributes the

unusually robust harvestto optimal agriculture con-ditions in the Peace RiverValley - an area that will beflooded if the Site C dambecomes a reality."The land has some of

the best soil in the provincethat allowed us to grow avery healthy crop everyyear," says Parsons aboutthe 20-acre, 2,200-bushelharvest.

The election race is on in ChetwyndBY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – No matter who is elect-ed, Chetwynd’s municipal governmentwill have a very different face after Nov. 19. The mayoral race is being run by

Merlin Nichols and Bob Shirley. Bothhave served as Chetwynd District coun-cillors in the past, and each brings theirown understanding of what it takes to bemayor and their own reasons for step-ping up.“I’ve been on the council for 10 years

and we’ve had a good solid council forthese years and we need to carry on thetradition,” said Nichols. A good workingcouncil, said Nichols, is able to work withdistrict staff without trying to do theirjobs for them.“There are so many opportunities, how

can I say it, for things to go wrong in thegovernance of a council and I think wehave an obligation to the residents ofChetwynd to continue the good solidgovernance we’ve had over the last threeterms at least.”

Chetwynd trustees voted in by acclamation

RodeoSubdivisionupgradesBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND –Residents in the RodeoSubdivision will be ableto have their say in thenew year regardingupcoming improvementsto their streets, ditchesand drainage issues.RobCrissfield Director ofEngineering and PublicWorks said discussionsaround improvements tothe subdivision havebeen in the works for acouple of years.

Standing water, shallow ditches and drainage issues area consistent problem in the Rodeo Subdivision inChetwynd. The District is now looking at speaking toresidents about upgrade options.


BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND – The October 29 Saulteau FirstNations by-election saw Tammy Watson elected toreplace Norman Napoleon. Napoleon announced inOctober that he would be stepping down from hisposition as councillor, said electoral officer BillLindsay.Nominations were held on Oct. 22 with Mary Doyle,

Stanley Napoleon and Tammy Watson throwing theirhats in the ring.

Chetwynd Echo 21Friday, January 6, 2012

Shop Local campaign hopes to keep

Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce Manager Tonia Richter, Kal Tire Manager GerryGaudet and Chetwynd EchoChetwynd Echo Publisher Naomi Larsen display the new “Think,Shop, Buy Local” reusable shopping bags. The new Shop Local program was offi-cially kicked off last week.

Watson replacesNaopoleon at SFN

NewConservationOfficer takesup office inChetwynd

BY JOEI WARM––––––––––––––

CHETWYND –Chetwynd once again hasa conservation officer(CO). Murray Booth start-ed in his new position Oct.31 and brings with him asignificant amount ofexperience.While Chetwynd is a

new position, Booth alsohas some experience withhis new community.“I’ve always kind of

liked the Chetwynd area.When I was stationed inBurns Lake I came overhere hunting and quiteenjoyed the country andthe people I’ve methere…,” said Booth.

Eight-and-under relay recordestablished for Eels


–––––––––––––– FORT ST. JOHN – This

past weekend 18 swim-mers went up to Fort St.John to compete in theirfirst swim meet of the2011-12 season. Team coach Jason

Brockman said 10 newclub records were estab-

lished as the Eelssplashed to another greatstart to the season. “Although all records

are worthy of notice twostand out above therest,” he said. “The firstone being that the clubhad for the first timeenough eight and undergirls to establish a clubrecord.”

RCMP seek witnesses after fatalcollision closes highway


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A local

woman has succumbedto her injuries followinga two-vehicle collision

last week and theChetwynd RCMP arenow looking for witness-es to the crash. The collision happened

at the Highway 97S inter-section near Campbell

Road west of Chetwynd. Police are now asking

for the drivers of twoother vehicles that mayhave witnessed the colli-sion to come forwardwith information.

$1.36 billion investmentALASKA HIGHWAY NEWS

–––––––––––––– HUDSON’S HOPE – Premier Christy

Clark announced financing this weekworth $1.36 billion for two major invest-ments which will eventually create over6,700 jobs."This investment clearly shows how

confident China is in British Columbia'sworld-class mining resources and stronginvestment climate," said PremierChristy Clark. "These two projects sup-

port our BC Jobs Plan and according tothe companies will create over 6,700 jobsand other economic benefits for BritishColumbians."The first investment is bythe Canadian Kailuan Dehua Mines Co.,Ltd. at a total of total investment is esti-mated by the company to be $860 mil-lion. he second investment is by theShandong Energy Feicheng MiningGroup Co. Ltd. and Canadian DehuaInternational Mines Group Inc. commit-ting $500 million.

Former Chetwyndcouncillor JoanneRoberts passes

away

Submitted––––––––––––––

CHETWYND –Mayor Evan Saugstad,Council members andstaff of the District ofChetwynd are deeplysaddened by the recent

passing of CouncillorJoanne Roberts. Joanne served the

District first as anemployee for six yearsand then as aCouncillor for sixyears.

2011ChetwyndElectionResults

DISTRICT OF CHETWYNDMerlin Nichols 301Bob Shirley 106

Ernest Pfanner 315Laura Weisgerber 299Bob Nicholson 247Don Harris 227

Rochelle Galbraith 224Alec Brownlee 223Kathy Weaver 215Julia Nelson 175

Joanne Roberts 122REGIONAL DISTRICT

Jerrilyn Schembri 111Elmer Kabush 58

If quality, trust and professionalism areimportant to you, then there’s only onechoice; North Country Rebuilders Ltd.Located one kilometer down Jackfish LakeRoad, North Country Rebuilders Ltd is theplace to go to get your vehicle worked onby some of the best mechanics in town.

After more than 20 years of serving thecommunity, you can expect satisfactionand dependability with each visit. OwnerDon Lasser has over 28 years of experiencein the mechanical field. Wade Collins acertified technician and authorizedinspector, brings his 30 years of

experience, Alisha Derhousoff, a fourthyear apprentice, with Dealershipexperience; Trisha Stanley in the office as aservice adviser and Wyatt an up andcoming mechanic. North CountryRebuilders Ltd. is a Licenced InspectionFacility, capable of inspecting up to 5500kg.So let’s have a look at some of the keythings that North Country Rebuilders cando:-Car and light truck services including fullservice or quick lube-Engine replacment and repair-Trans replacment and service-4x4 repairs-Tire changing and balancing- Computerized engine tune ups andengine decarbonizing;- Brake service;- Suspension, strut and steering servicewith 4-wheel computerized alignments;- Licenced designated inspection facilityfor vehicle inspections;- Automotive machine shopincluding crankshaft,grinding, cylinder blockboring, cylinder headrebuilding (gas andpropane), flywheel grinding

up to 24 inches;- exhaust repairs;- And much, much, more!North Country Rebuilders is completely

customer driven. While your vehicle isbeing pampered by these fine mechanics,you can sit back, relax and enjoy a moviein the comfort of their waiting room.Equipped with a satellite TV and 200channels to choose from, you can relax andenjoy a movie and a coffee while yourvehicle is being fixed.You need not worry about a thing, North

Country Rebuilders is a proud member ofthe Automotive Engine RebuildersAssociation. Every year they areexpanding with new equipment and newways to serve you better.

You can count on North CountryRebuilders to look after your vehicle, socome in and see Don or Wade to improveyour vehicle’s future today!

NORTH COUNTRY REBUILDERS

Wyatt Mallia, Alisha Derhousoff, Don Lasser and Wade Collins

North Country Rebuilders Ltd.Jackfish Lake Road, Chetwynd

250-788-9599(one km down the Jackfish Lake Road)


LIONS RECYCLING DEPOTHOURS OF OPERATION

Please be advised that the hours of operation for theRecycling Depot are as follows:Sunday - ClosedMonday - 10 am - 4pmTuesday - 9am - 5pmWednesday- 9am - 5pmThursday - 9am - 5pmFriday - 9am - 5pmSaturday 9am - 4pm

788-1111

Not getting enough contact?

Want market advice? My goal is to help you reach yours.

TD Waterhouse Private Investment Advice is a division of TD Waterhouse Canada Inc., a

subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. – Member

Canadian Investor Protection Fund. The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of

The Toronto-Dominion Bank or a wholly-owned subsidiary, in Canada and/or in other

countries.

I provide trusted service from Prince George north to Fort Nelson.

I will work with you to develop a customized investment strategy

that’s right for you and your family. I will contact you regularly to

ensure your plan remains flexible enough to move with you through

each stage of life.

Please contact me so that we can arrange a meeting.

Ben Yarish

Investment Advisor

[email protected]

TD Waterhouse – Private Investment Advice

400 Victoria St. Suite 390

Prince George BC V2L 2J7

Free: 1.877.838.2166

TD Waterhouse

o

oN

gyMMy

rpI

liwI

’taht

esuohretaWDT

g

?tcatnochguonegnittegto

?ecivdatekramtnaWoyhcaerreuoypllpehotsilao

roeGecnirPmorffrecivresdetsurtedivo

zimotsucapolevedotuoyhtiwkrowll

lliwI.ylimaffaruoydnauoyroffothgirs’

hlbilfflil

e

o

?

.srrsuo

sleNtroFothtroneg n.

ygetartstnemtsevnidez

otylralugeruoytcatnoc

hhhi

u

vnIetavirPesuohretaWDT

otnoroTehTfoyraidisbus -

C naidana I rotsevn P itcetor

otnoroTehT - aBnoinimoD

sne

hcae

aelP

hsiraYYaneB

rosivdAtnemtsevnIIn

[email protected]

WDT

004

nirP

eerF

t

WDTfonoisividasiecivddvAtnemtsev

- naanCesuohretaWDT.knaBnoinimoD

no Fund. edartrehtodnaogolDTehT -

yllohwarokna - Cni,yraidisbusdenwo

hguoneelbixelfflsniamernaanlpruoyeru

.effeilfoegatsh

ewtahtosemtcatnocesa aegnarranac

esuohretaW – ivddvAtnemtsevnIetavirP

uS.tSairotciV 093eti

7J2L2VCBegroeGec

6612.838.778.1:e

h

a,.cnIadanaCesuohretaW

.cnIadan – eM rebm

- foytreporpehteraarskram

rehtoniro/dd/naadanaC

guorhtuoyhtiwevomot

.gniteem

eci

.seirtnuoc

y ,y

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER!

NORTH COUNTRY

REBUILDERS LTD.• Preventative Maintenance• Winterization• Licence BC Inspection• Full vehicle servicing

P: 788-9599 F: 788-7930

Julie ShawHealthy Communities

Coordinator

Box 3575400 North Access RoadChetwynd, BC, CanadaV0C 1J0www.gochetwynd.com

cell: 250-401-3362office: 250-401-4100

fax: [email protected]

Because it is Christmasor Hanukah orHoliday Time, as

well as the beginning of anew year, the season oflights, music, movement –and family, I am writing towish you, a happy season,with time to take stock ofyourselves and reflect withfriends and family on theblessings of life and theevents of the past 365 days.

(How quickly the dayshave gone!) It has been agood year for Chetwyndand not just in terms ofeconomic activity and theability to pay our bills,important as it is to bal-ance our output withintake. The year that is passing

has shown us much aboutthe people who live andwork in our neighbour-hoods. We’ve seen thegood, the bad, the strong,the weak. We’ve seenthings that we like andthings that we don’t like.But I want to reflect on thegood and the brave. Remember the great

rainstorms of early sum-mer and the havocwreaked on our streets andbridges, parking lots andbasements? You mustremember. It was a dampand dismal time but para-doxically, one of ourbrightest. Remember theresponse of those whothrew themselves andtheir equipment into thefight to save the communi-ty from greater damage?How could you forget?Not every cloud has a

silver lining but if we lookeven cursorily at theclouds that dumped allthat water on us we willsee, perhaps not silver, but

the gold of character in ourcitizens. The publicresponse was outstanding– indeed, it was phenome-nal. Ordinary folk, ourneighbours and friends,turned out with dumptrucks and heavy equip-ment to staunch the over-flow and limit the devas-tating effects of nature’sviolent outburst.Every gravel truck in the

country must have beenpressed into service. Fromthe Jackfish pits to townthey were bumper tobumper from dawn tilldark with smiling driversbehind the wheels. Someowners even offered their

equipment free of charge.The united mission: returnour community to the con-dition in which the rainsfound it. And we do livein a lovely community fullof flowers (in season) andall-season smiling faces.Experiencing the

response of the communi-ty in the face of potentialdisaster is, without doubt,my high point of the year.I know those of you whosepavement was torn up andwhose basements, cot-tages, and possessionswere hugely damaged willstill be feeling the sting.For some, life won’t everbe quite the same. I guess

that’s life in this world.Still, we can take comfort

in the knowledge that weare surrounded on everyside by the dear hearts andgentle people of our hometown. We can take comfortin the knowledge that theyare here for us as we enterthe unknown of the yearstill ahead. As weapproach the year, let’s doit with the confidence ofpeople who know that inChetwynd it is each for alland all for each.


The Mayor’sReport

wwiitthh MMeerrlliinn NNiicchhoollss

Disclaimer: The precedingis the opinion of MayorMerin Nichols and may ormay not reflect the viewsand/or wishes of council.

A look back at 2011 and all that came with it


Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce“�e voice of local business”

PPhhoonnee:: 225500 778888 33334455 FFaaxx 225500 778888 33665555 BBooxx 887700 CChheettwwyynndd,, BB..CC VV00CC 11JJOO

wwwwww..cchheettwwyynnddcchhaammbbeerr..ccaa

Proud Sponsor of Community Events

REMINDERFebruary 23 isCivic Night

Nominate someonenow!

Chamber luncheon atPomeroy Hotel

Jan. 18 - RSVP ASAPGuest Speaker: Ernie

Freeman, PESLCall the Chamber tobook your spot!

LLLLooooccccaaaallll SSSSppppooootttt llll iiiigggghhhhttttYouth Group for ages13-18. Mondays 7 pm- 8pm. Our Lady ofPeace Catholic

Church. Call 250-401-7201

Free English PracticeMondays 9:30 am at Northern LightsCollege and Wednesdays at 5:30 pmat the Chetwynd Public Library Call

250-788-2559

Chetwynd Breastfeeding SupportNetwork meets every Tuesday at9:30 a.m at the Chetwynd Public

Library.

Little Giant Air Cadets Mondays at 6:30pm at the RoyalCanadian Legion. Ages 12-18.

Come on out!

Taking Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. atthe Pine Valley Seniors Centre Call

250-788-9563

Pine Valley Seniors Hall weeklyactivities including Cribbage, Whist,Bingo and Carpet Bowling. Call Anita

at 788-5838 for more info.

Free coaching courses for snow andhill sports. Call Kristen at Pacific

Sport Northern BC at 250-960-5346.

Chetwynd Society for CommunityLiving Board Meeting. FirstWednesday of each month.

Chetwynd Scotiabank Bantam GiantsTournament Fri. - Sun. Jan 20,21,22.

Youth Group for ages 13-18.Mondays 7 pm - 8pm. Our Lady of

Peace Catholic Church. Call 250-401-7201

Baby’s Best Chance PregnancyOutreach Program Drop in : Mondays

12 - 2. Weekly Group SessionsWednesdays 11 am-1pm. Located at

Kici.

3 Nations Ventures Midget Giants vsBeaverlodge Friday Jan. 13 8pm

3 Nations Ventures Midget Giants vsSmokey River Sat. Jan. 14. 7 pm

Chetwynd Talisman Energy PeeWeeGiant home Tournament Jan 14-15th

Call The Echo

today with your

event and we’ll

publish it herefor FREE!


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

Pearls Before Swine

GET FUZZY

FAMOUSBIRTHDAYSJANUARY 1

Verne Troyer, Actor (43)

JANUARY 2Taye Diggs, Actor (41)

JANUARY 3Eli Manning, Athlete (31)

JANUARY 4Julia Ormond, Actress

(47)

JANUARY 5Bradley Cooper, Actor

(37)

JANUARY 6Nancy Lopez, Athlete (55)

JANUARY 7Jeremy Renner, Actor (41)


3 Bedroom Town HousesClean, Quiet, Close to Elementary School

Manager on Site.

For more information Call250-788-7848

Woodside Estates

CCLASSIFIEDSLASSIFIEDS

ADVERTISING REGULATIONSThe Chetwynd Echo reserves the right to classify ads under appropriate headlines and to set rates there-fore and to determine page location. The Chetwynd Echo reserves the right to revise, edit classify orreject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the Chetwynd Echo. The ChetwyndEcho cannot be responsible for errors after the first publication of any advertisement. Notice of errorson the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the appropriate advertising departmentto be corrected in the next available edition. It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the lia-bility of the Chetwynd Echo in the event of failure to publish an advertisement or in the event of anerror appearing in the advertisement as published, shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertis-er for only one incorrect insertion for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect oromitted item only, and that there shall be no liability to an event greater than the amount paid for suchadvertising. Advertisements must comply with the British Columbia Human Rights Act which pro-hibits any advertising that discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nation-ality, ancestry or place or origin or because age is between 44 and 65 years unless the condition is jus-tified by a bondable requirement for the work involved.

ADOPTADOGThe District of Chetwynd Animal Control

department is offeringstray dogs for adoption.

Please pick up an application form at theDistrict office. Office hours areMon. - Fri., 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

The District does not promise to provide adog that meets your specific wishes but wedo expect to offer a dog that you will like.Please consider this option for the care andprotection of innocent

animals.Thank you.

District of Chetwynd

Need Cash Today?Do you Own a Car?Borrow up to $10000.00No Credit Checks!Cash same day, local offi ce

www.REALCARCASH.com1-877-304-7344

��

FREE CLASSIFIEDSWANTEDBoarder. Would considerroommate. Call 250-788-5603. (Rented untilDecember)FOR SALENeeded ASAP; youngresponsible family look-ing to rent at 2-3 bedrm

plae as we need morespace. We have beenlooking since June andhave no luck with waitinglists. Call 250-401-1627________________________________________2 bedroom mobile, hard-wood flooring, stainless

steel f/s comes with w/d,includes water, mustmaintain drive way.$1200. per month plusDamage Deposit or pur-chase first starter home$120,000. 5 acres. Call250-401-1766.

Do you have your Think, Shop, Buy Local user card? Bring it with(businesses not included) and your classified ad is free at the

Chetwynd EchoChetwynd Echo

hope For every

questionthere is ananswer.

We’re here.

Hope through education, supportand solutions.

1.800.321.1433 www.arthritis.ca


CCLASSIFIEDSLASSIFIEDSANNOUNCEMENTSCriminal Record?Canadian pardon sealsrecord. American waverallows legal entry. Whyrisk employment, business,travel, licensing, deporta-tion? ALL CANADI-AN/AMERICAN Work &Travel Visas 604-282-668or 1-800-347-2540www.accesslegalresearch.com.

#1 IN PARDONS Removeyour criminal record! Getstarted TODAY for ONLY$49.95/mo. Limited TimeOffer. FASTEST, GUAR-ANTEED Pardon inCanada. FREEConsultation. 1-866-416-6 7 7 2www.expresspardons.comANNOUNCEMENTSDON’T LET YOUR PASTLIMIT YOUR FUTURE!Guaranteed CriminlaRecord Removal Since1989. Confidential, Fast,Affordable. Our A+ BBBRating assures EMPLOY-MENT/TRAVEL FREE-DOM. cal lfor your FREEINFORMATION BOOK-LET. 1-8-NOW-PARDON1-866-972-7366 removey-ourrecord.com

HELP WANTEDR E Q U I R E DIMMEDIATELYFulltimeLog Truck Maintenance

Mechanic. Top wage andbenefits. Fax resume 250-567-5329, Call 250-567-0028 Pitka Logging Ltd.Vanderhoof, BC.

Interior Heavy EquipmentOperator School. Locationsin Alberta and BC. Handson real world training. Fullsized equipment. Jobplacement assistance.Funding available 1-866-3 9 9 - 3 8 5 3 .www.iheschool.com

Paid in Advance. Make$1,000 weekly mailingBrochures from home.100% legit. Income guar-anteed. No expriencerequired. Enroll Today!www. n a t i o n a l - w o r k -ers.com

Wanted for ChetwyndCourt Motel. Full-timemaintenance person,housekeeper and frontdesk, manager. Please call250-788-2271

Hudson’s HopeInvestment Limited. (BestWestern) is hiring a full-time 40 hours per weekHotel Front Desk. Wage is$12.40/hour. Sunday toThursday from 11 pm to 7am and various shifts.Some secondary schoolSome experience in HotelFront Desk is an asset butnot required. Training will

be required. Duties:Maintain an inventory ofvacancies, reservationsand room assignments,register arriving guestsand assign rooms. Answerenquiries regarding hotelservices and registrationby letter, by telephone andin person, provide infor-mation about servicesavailable in the communi-ty and respond to guestscomplaints. Compile andcheck daily record sheets,guest accounts, receiptsand vouchers using com-puterized or manual sys-tems. Present statementsof charges to departingguests nad receive pay-ment. Please fax resume to250-783-2301 and applyin person from 9am to 4pm at 9006 Clarke AvenueHudson’s Hope BC, nearFort St. John BC.

Hudson’s HopeInvestment Limited (BestWestern) is hiring a full-time: 40 hours per weekKitchen Helper. Wage:$11.92 per hour. Shifts:Monday to Friday 11am -7pm and 1pm - 9pm.Requirements: no educa-tion is required. Someexperience in FoodHelpers but no required.We will provide training.Duties: Sanitize and washdishes and other by hand.Operate dishwasher to

wash dishes, scour potsand pans, clean and sani-tize dishwasher mats, cartsand waste disposal units.Clean and sanitize kitchenincluding work surfaces,cupboards, storage areas,appliances and equipment.Remove garbage andtrash, sweep and mopfloors. Please fax resumeto 250-783-2301.

Best Western Hotel inHudson’s Hope requires aLight Duty Cleaner. Fulltime 40 hours/week.$13.22 per hour, Mond. toFri., from 830 to 5pm andvarious shifts.Requirements: No educa-tion is required. We willprovide training. Duties:Make beds, change sheetsand distribute clean towelsand toiletries, attend toguests request for extrasupplies. Clean, disinfectpublic areas such as chang-ing rooms, showers andelevators, dust furnitureand vaccuum carpeting andarea rugs. Fax resume to250-783-2301.

‘FREE 120 PAGE CATA-LOGUE from Halfords.Butcher supplies, leather &craft supplies and animalcontrol productcs. 1-800-353-7864 or Email:[email protected] orvisit our Web Store:www.halfordmailorder.co

m.PERSONALFREE TO TRY!! 1-866-732-0070 LIVE GIRLScall #4011 or 1-88-628-6790 You Choose!! Live!!1-877-544-0199 Hot LiveConversation! Call #4010or 1-877-290-0553 18+

True Advice. True

Clarity. True Psychics. 1-877-342-3032 (18+)3.19/min. 1-900-528-6256.www. truepsych ic s . [email protected] SALEHOT TUBE SPA COVERS Bestprice, best quality. Allshapes and colours avail-able. Call 1-866-652-6837.

10 Reasons Why You Should IncreaseYour Echo Newspaper Advertising

When Business Gets Tough

1. Increasing your Echo advertising gives you an edge.Whether business is good or slow you have to get your share of whatever business is around. Don’t putyourself at a disadvantage at the very moment you need an edge.

2. Consumers want to be well informed about their purchase.In times of uncertainty, consumers are more careful about what they buy. Advertising allows you toinform consumers about products, services, values...

3. When competition cuts back, this is your chance to increase!Consumers will spend their money regardless - make sure they’re informed about your business andthey’ll spend with you.

4. Slow times ahead?Perhaps, but people are still spending. Your competitors will be bidding for their share - and yours.

5. You can’t do much about factors such as rent, labour costs, merchandise...You can however, control your promotion. Advertiisng is a proven sales tool that returns many timesyour investment in store traffic and sales.

6. Remember how long it took you to get started?You build up your business with a consistent advertising program. If you cut your advertising and loseyour public awareness, you’ll eventually have to start all over again.

7. What saves you time, saves you Money!Advertising is part of your sales team. Ads help pre-sell the customer and help you close the sale faster.

8. Tell them about yourself.You say your customers know you - maybe that’s true. What about new residents? Keep the steady flow

of customers informed about you and your business. Think long term.

9. Here’s a hard fact to chew on.Over any given period, a company that advertises below the industry average has sales that are belowthe industry average.

10. Advertising is news - about products and services.Most shoppers look for this kind of news in the pages of the Echo. Echo

Chetwynd

Call the Echo for more info. 788-2246

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

AUTOS

REAL ESTATEFOR RENT

ANNOUNCEMENTS PERSONALS BUSINESSES& SERVICES

MERCHANDISE JOBS GARAGE SALES REAL ESTATEFOR SALE


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – After

more than a decade in theworks, the Little PrairieCommunity Forest part-nership is official.The agreement was

signed with by the Districtof Chetwynd, the SaulteauFirst Nations, and theWest Moberly FirstNations Monday after-noon in Chetwynd.

Chetwynd Echo28 Friday, January 6, 2012

New Mayor inBY NAOMI LARSEN


CHETWYND – After four terms as a councillor for theDistrict of Chetwynd, Merlin Nichols has secured theseat of Mayor following this weekend’s municipal elec-tion. Nichols won with 301 votes. His opponent BobShirley received 106 votes.In an interview with the Chetwynd Echo Monday,

Nichols said he took a ‘rather detached attitude’ whenit came to the election giving it up to what some wouldcall fate.“I don’t like politics so I stay out of politics,” he said

with a wry smirk. “I put up my signs, I did some inter-views and then I thought it’s up to the people. I hadthought about knocking on every door in town but, no.”


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – More

than 60 representativesfrom around the commu-nity and BC Housing metNov. 10 to discuss

Chetwynd’s housingdemands.The meeting, which was

closed to the media, washosted by the District ofChetwynd to hear fromindustry on their presentand future operations and

expected workforcegrowth projections, andhow they see this translat-ing into direct workerhousing demands. In a press release from

the District it states,“Mayor Evan Saugstad

announced at the forumthat Council agreed to con-sider a Tax RevitalizationExemption Policy to stim-ulate multifamily housingdevelopment in Chetwyndfor multifamily residentialprojects.”

Site C hosts info sessions for business community

Tax Exemption Policy considered for new housing developments


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The Chetwynd

Chamber of Commerce, in partner-ship with the B.C. Chamber ofCommerce held a information ses-

sions last week to inform the localbusiness community of the status ofthe Site C project.Approximately 20 people attended

Chetwynd’s session.B.C Hydro Manager of

Community Relations Dave Conway

says the purpose of the sessions wereto make sure the business communi-ty is well prepared in the future.The Site C project is currently in the

early part of the third stage of devel-opment, which is the environmentaland regulatory review.

New council sworn in,ceremony bittersweet


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A new

era has begun inChetwynd with the swear-ing in of the new councilTuesday evening.The Mayor, the four new

councilors (the sixth willbe sworn in Dec. 19) andone incumbent took their

official Oath of Office infront of a full chamber.The new council is as

follows: Mayor MerlinNichols and councilorsRochelle Galbraith, ErnestPfanner, LauraWeisgerber, BobNicholson, Don Harrisand Alec Brownlee.Coun.Ernest Pfanner

was sworn in Dec. 19.

Community Forest has come to fruition


–––––––––––––– CHETWYND –

Chetwynd’s very ownradio station PeaceFM94.5 celebrated 15 yearson the air Monday.Founder and station

General Manager LeoSabulsky remembersthat it was a cold andfrosty day on Dec. 5,1996 when C.H.E.T.radio (now PeaceFM) hitthe airwaves for the firsttime at about 6:00 a.m.Located in a tiny office

at the end of a hallwayin Chetwynd SecondarySchool, C.H.E.T startedits first radio broadcastwith three chairs, an oldconsole, -40 degrees out-side and a young manstarting a career in radio.Peace FM is honoured

to be the first communi-ty radio station inCanada licensed by theCRTC.

PeaceFMcelebrates15 years

Bantam Giants on the road to provincialsSubmitted

–––––––––––––– CHETWYND, BC - BC

Hockey has announcedthat the ChetwyndScotiabank BantamGiants have qualified forthe BC Hockey Tier 4P r o v i n c i a lChampionships to be

held in Vanderhoof, BC,on March 17 - 23, 2012.The Chetwynd Bantam

hockey team (ages 13and 14) will represent theDistrict of Chetwynd andthe Province of BritishColumbia's NorthEast/Yukon District atthe upcoming games.

Chetwynd will competeagainst the top-rankedTier 4 teams from EastKootenay, WestKootenay, OkanaganMainline, LowerMainland, VancouverIsland, Whitehorse,North Western and NorthCentral Districts.

I do not make new year's resolutions. The only thing I do in excess is beawesome, I'm not going to stop that in 2012.

Documents

Chetwynd Echo January 6, 2012