December 2013

The news you need. The fun you want. December 2013www.flipsidenews.ca

Sci-Tech North closingBy Bruce Lantz

Sci-Tech North of Fort St. John is closing its doors.

Lori Ackerman, the mayor of Fort St. John who has served as Sci-Tech’s executive director since 2002, confirmed the closure of the organi-zation, whose mandate has been “economic development and diver-sification through the use of science, technology and innovation”, accord-ing to its website.

“The Board made a decision to close the doors”. She declined to be interviewed, referring questions to board chair Martin Cunliffe, who did not respond to a request for an inter-view.

Ackerman later emailed, “They are in the process of closing, it is not complete. The Board will be releas-ing a press release once the organi-zation is closed and not before”.

Sci-Tech North had developed a high profile in the Peace-Liard-Stikine region over the years, although its accomplishments are not listed on their website.

The website offers a long list of functions such as: stimulate and inspire interest in innovation; inform and educate entrepreneurs, innova-tors and inventors; implement inno-vative climateaction initiatives; ini-tiate partnerships at the primary through secondary school level in support of science and technology outreach programs; facilitate profes-sional development initiatives and business mentoring programs; col-laborate with regional stakeholders to address workforce development issues; offer business training; sup-port the development and commer-cialization of technology; counsel and refer clients to Research Institutions and Industry Liaison Offices; seek stakeholders and potential partners to build innova-tion culture, capacity and infrastruc-ture; create opportunities for strate-gic planning and networking initia-tives and events; host annual ‘Excellence of Innovation’ Awards; and participate in symposiums and strategy sessions throughout the Northeast.

Bruce Lantz photoHOSPITAL ‘LEEDS’ THE WAY

The new Fort St. John Regional Hospital and Peace Villa have been awarded LEED Gold certification, the most northerly buildings in BC to receive this designation. Peace River Regional District chair Karen Goodings, whose orga-nization provided 40 per cent funding for the facilities, called them “amaz-ing”, and said it is important “to take every possible step to reduce the misuse of our energy”. With the LEED Gold award, from left, Ardith Brule, general manager of ISL Health, Celine Southwick, constituency assistant representing MLA Pat Pimm, Goodings, Angela de Smit, health services administrator for Northern Health, and Viva Swanson, contracts manager for Northern Health.

City hiring ec dev officerBy Bruce Lantz

The City of Fort St. John has pulled out of the North Peace Economic Development Commission and will be hiring its own economic development officer (EDO), city manager Dianne Hunter has confirmed.

The move casts some doubt on the commission’s future, however.

Hunter said the decision, made in 2012, came after discussions with the local business community, who “strongly suggested” that a city EDO would be needed, given the eco-nomic potential likely due to the Site C dam, planned LNG projects, and city growth and development poten-tial associated with them. The city had to give the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) a year’s notice, which is fulfilled Dec. 31.

The new position has been adver-tised with a closing date of Dec. 13. The successful applicant will be responsible for planning, coordinat-ing, facilitating and implementing all aspects of economic develop-ment, including supporting, promot-ing, communicating and marketing local assets to develop new and existing business ideas.

Hunter said compensation for this management position, which is exempt from the municipal union, will be negotiated based on the suc-cessful applicant’s experience and education.

“City taxes that were being sent to the NPEDC through the PRRD requisition will be redirected to the city,” she said. “In 2013 the city con-tributed $126,000 to the NPEDC which will now be used to offset the wages and program for a city EDO.

“The city has always maintained an economic development budget and these funds will be utilized for the economic development function. There was no increase to the budget over 2012. The only new funds are the $126,000 which city residents were already paying to the PRRD.”

The move puts the future of the NPEDC in some doubt. “We are still working through what the future holds,” said NPEDC director Karen Goodings. “While they (city) will not be contributing to the budget they will still be a large part of the focus of economic development in the North Peace region. Logically, we can understand that they feel that they need more focus on the city. It would be my hope that we can part-ner on any of the statistical data and business retention that is an impor-tant part of promoting any area. Time will tell.”

Taylor Mayor Fred Jarvis, who sits on the NPEDC board, added, “It will be different, but if we work together, two strong bodies can be more powerful than one, as we have experienced as municipalities in the Northeast.”

2 The Flipside December 2013

EDITORIAL

Those less fortunateMP REPORT

Creating new ag markets

Bob Zimmer

We live in a land of plenty. Well, at least most of us do.

But while many of us enjoy rea-sonable prosperity and confine our fretting to which political party is in power, or whether or not Site C should go forward, or even how many Christmas gifts to buy friends and family, there is a world beyond our doors that is not so complacent.

Just today came news that BC still has the highest child poverty rate in Canada, again, at nearly 19 per cent, five per cent above the national average. Just today came a sad story about how a dog nearing the end of its life was thrown in a dumpster to die in misery. Thankfully it was rescued by animal shelter workers and allowed to die loved and with dignity, but how can people be so cruel?

The world is full of such sad news, so how can we live our com-fortable lives ignoring the troubles all around us? But we do.

Perhaps at this time of year, as we scramble from Christmas party to party, as we seek “just the right gift” to buy our loved ones, we should consider those less fortunate. Because their lives, their hardship, could be ours. Most of us are just a few paycheques away from a life on the streets – or at least, a life much different than the one we now enjoy.

Many are generous at this time of year; we give to worthy causes because . . . it’s Christmastime, after all. And when that is done, when the holiday season has passed, what then? Do we put away our hearts until the next ‘giving’ season? Or do we live our lives willing to share what we have with those less fortu-

nate?When we see the homeless living

on our streets we can easily say they’re there because they choose to be, or they’re there because they don’t want to work. And maybe, some of the time, that’s correct. But what of the less visible? What of the single parents struggling to make ends meet with menial jobs? What of women struggling to live with physical and emotional abuse? What of the seniors abandoned by their families, living out their days in lonely poverty? What of the children without enough to eat, warm clothes to wear? What of those living from day to lonely day? Even . . . what of loyal loving pets, discarded like yes-terday’s newspaper when they are no longer ‘convenient’?

A society shouldn’t be judged only by its prosperity, by the ‘toys’ that people can buy. Rather, it should be judged by how well it cares for those less fortunate – a paraphrase of statements by both Mahatma Gandhi and Sir Winston Churchill. By that measure, we are failing.

Think about that the next time you fill up your vehicle (many don’t have one), or when you spend $300 on groceries (many can’t afford it), or when you worry about how those new clothes look on you (many wear only cast-offs), or when you com-plain about your job, your boss or your long hours (to many, that’s only a dream).

Think about that. And maybe, when you make your New Year’s resolutions, resolve to do something for those less fortunate . . . all year long.

- Bruce Lantz

By Bob ZimmerOur long winters in the north can

sometimes push our region’s strong connection to agriculture out of our minds. From fall fairs, to farmers markets, to active 4H clubs across the region, the agricultural sector and its values are alive and well in northern BC.

For the agricultural sector to remain vibrant there must be new markets for our product. Our Conservative government is work-ing hard to promote that that spirit in BC and across Canada with the sign-ing of a new free trade agreement with the European Union.

The new Canada-Europe Trade Agreement (CETA) opens up enor-mous new potential for livestock growers in our region and across Canada. CETA removes tariffs and opens up duty-free access for about one million hogs, 500,000 cattle, and 11,500 bison. Removing trade tariffs on these meat products pro-vides the potential for enormous growth for the livestock sector. Canada exported fewer than 12,000 head of cattle and 700 head of bison to Europe in 2012, totaling just over $10 million in sales. Those exports were subject to tariffs of up to 50 per cent. By allowing duty-free beef and bison well above current export lev-els, it creates enormous potential for Canadian farmers.

Grain and seed farmers will also see enormous benefits from CETA. Oilseed and grain exporters are pro-jecting $100 million in growth nationally. Although canola is not commonly used as cooking oil in Europe, demand for it is growing in the burgeoning biodiesel market. CETA will also remove barriers to Canadian wheat and oats and pro-vide farmers with more opportuni-ties to get the highest price for their goods.

A strong and productive timber industry remains a cornerstone for jobs in British Columbia and is a crucial part of Canada’s internation-al reputation. CETA will ensure

growth for the industry for BC and Canada. British Columbia already supplies the largest share of Canadian forestry products destined for Europe. Even with a 10 per cent tar-iff on most products, Canada’s exports were valued at more than $500 million a year between 2010 and 2012. CETA will remove that tariff, and BC is ready to meet an increased demand for Canadian for-estry products in Europe.

Industries in the north can also expect to reap rewards from CETA. The oil and gas industry, along with many other industries in northern BC, suffer from an ongoing shortage of skilled workers. The new agree-ment will bring in a new credential recognition system, making it easier for workers from the EU to fill those shortages and keep the north boom-ing.

CETA gives Canada the edge in the global marketplace, as negotia-tions between Europe and the United States on their own free trade deal have stalled. Canadian businesses now have opportunity to establish trade deals with Europe without hav-ing to deal with the barriers of our competitors.

I am confident that people in industries across my riding will see benefits from this free trade deal as our products reach more European consumers than ever before.

Bob Zimmer is the Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies.

Brian Downie photoNEW OPPORTUNITIES DISCUSSED

Bob Zimmer, MP for Prince George-Peace River, centre, along with Chris Warkentin, MP for Peace River, blue shirt, and Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture, gray blazer, joined with Dawson Creek Mayor Dale Bumstead, left, to meet with local farmers to discuss new trade opportunities for the Peace Region. The Canada-Europe Trade Agreement (CETA) opens new markets for Canadian agriculture. The agreements improve access for Canadian Beef, Pork, Bison, grains, and oilseed to the European Union. For more information on CETA, visit http://actionplan.gc.ca/ceta

3 The FlipSide December 2013

By Bruce LantzDowntown soon will sport a new

look as the Evangel Chapel moves into the 100 Street space now occu-pied by the Central Emporium store.

Pastor Tony Warrington has con-firmed the chapel bought the whole building from Kerry Mann for its appraised value of $2.8 million plus the old chapel building on 98 Street. About $1 million has been raised for renovations. The store Needful Things will remain in its current location on the building’s north end.

“Our mission is to design a place for all people, a church for the city,” said Pastor Tony Warriner. “We think this will be part of the solution to downtown revitalization. It’s our way of contributing.”

He said support for the acquisi-tion, and the fundraising required, from his congregation was “pretty awesome” even though the young congregation isn’t particularly wealthy. “The way they bought into this is better than I’ve seen in 24 years of pasturing,” he said. “The most exciting part is seeing their unbridled generosity.”

The new facility will offer 16,000 square feet, four times the current size, for a growing congregation that now numbers around 600. It will feature a fully accredited School of Ministry, an eight-month theo-logical training facility that has already drawn a dozen applicants. And more staff will be hired.

“We’re a grow-ing little church. We have a vision. Our purpose is not just to serve our adherents, but to impact Fort St. John, to do what we can to bring a bit of heaven to earth,” said Warriner. “It’s our way of con-tributing.”

Evangel Chapel already is known for its community-based ‘Party in the Park’ and ‘Candy Planet’. That “family friendly” role will continue

in the new quarters, said assistant pastor Sara Warriner, with activities throughout the week. “We’ll be doing lots of stuff with kids and hav-ing fun kids’ nights. There are so many kids in this town.

“It’s not just going to be used on Sundays. We want lots of traffic.”

The chapel will start moving into its new quarters this month, with renovations starting in January. The new facility will open in the Spring.

Bruce Lantz photoEvangel Chapel Pastor Tony Warriner with wife and Associate Pastor Sara Warriner in front of their future location.

Evangel Chapel moving downtown

Home Sharing is an opportunity to bring someone into your home and share your life with them.

Opening your home and your life to a person with a developmental disability is a rewarding experience and enhances the lives of families and friends. The Home Share Coor-dinator works hard to ensure that a good match is made and that every-one involved in the process is com-fortable. The goal is to develop a good relationship that works well for the person that needs support and the person or family that they are living with.

Home Sharing is a great option for those who do not want to live alone or with roommates that they

are not compatible with. For some, a more independent option with some staff support works best for them and allows them to explore their individuality. For others, the security and sense of family that is developed in home sharing is a better fit.

One Home Sharing Contractor tells us about their experience with the person they share their life and home with:

“Some people are lonely and just do not want to live alone, and would like some company and or some help in their daily lives and are not ready to live in a typical care facility. The Home Share Program answers the needs of

these people.“We have shared

our home with an older lady for the last three years; we not only share our home but our lives and community. We help support her in many areas of her life but she has taught us and those around us patience, compassion and that life is easy when we don’t sweat the small stuff.’

“This is a small

community with big heart so if you would like to share your home, there are many individuals who would benefit from sharing a loving home.”

Audrey Mott was living in an apartment alone and was isolated and having difficulty with daily needs. She had tried other options that were staffed, but it was never a fit for her and she wasn’t truly happy. However, through the experi-ence of trying different options, she met a couple who she developed a friendship with and it became appar-ent that this would be a perfect match for home share. Audre moved in three years ago and has flourished in all aspects of her life, including making friends and contacting fam-ily members she has not seen for years and travelling to spend time with them.

The Fort St John Association for Community Living currently has several home sharing contracts in the Fort St John area and are seeking people who are interested in this opportunity. If you are interested in hearing about the program please call Pat Taylor, the Home Share Co-ordinator at (250)-787-9262 ext. 224 or email her at [email protected]. Training is provided along with a financial compensation pack-age. We look forward to hearing from you.

Contributed photoAudrey Knott, top right, with Mary Adams, top left, and, below, Kerri Knott and Doris Knott.

Home Sharing creates connections

TARGET REACHEDJane Neher, left, of the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation, and Moose FM’s Sarah Carmichael helped the station’s Light A Moose campaign hit its $35,000 fundraising target Nov. 27-29 in Fort St. John. The money goes to the hospi-tal foundation. They immediately set the new target at $40,000.Bruce Lantz photo

Fort St. John’s Totem Mall has been the target of smash-and-grab thieves – twice in one month.

In November, thieves twice drove trucks through mall doors – once through the west entrance and the other through the east side - and smashed into Apollo Avenue and Michael So’s jewel-lery store, fleeing with unknown quantities of merchandise.

Security footage in each case shows three males wearing dark hooded sweatshirts, jeans, and light-coloured gloves getting out of a truck and breaking display cases with hammers. The truck from the latest incident is believed to be a stolen older two-tone Dodge extended cab pickup, with a grey bottom and possibly a purple top. It was recovered the next day. Ironically, a stolen pick-up used in the first robbery also was recovered the day after.

The RCMP aren’t sure that the two incidents are related but, since the circumstances and num-ber of suspects match, they’re investigating possible connec-tions.

Mall Hit by Thieves

- twice!

4 The FlipSide December 2013Answers

Many have asked, “What is the reason for the angel on top of the Christmas tree?”

Once upon a time Santa was rushed to get ready for Christmas. He had told Mrs. Claus to wake him at 5 a.m. and to have his breakfast ready with a lunch to bring along. He also told the elves to have all the Christmas presents packed in the sleigh and the reindeer harnessed by 5:30.

At 5:30 the following morning Santa Claus awoke and jumped out of bed furious with Mrs. Claus for not wak-ing him up on time! Santa’s mood only got worse when he realized Mrs. Claus had not fixed breakfast or lunch!

Santa then ran out to his sleigh only to see that the elves had no presents packed and the reindeer were running wild in the pasture!

About this time a little angel walked by dragging a large Christmas tree. Santa tried to ignore since he wasn’t his jolly old self. But, the an-gel spoke up and said, “Santa what should I do with this Christmas tree?”

And that is the reason for the angel on top of the Christ-mas tree.

BAKINGBELTBOOKBRACELETCANDLESCANDYCHOCOLATESCLOTHESCOFFEE MAKERCOFFEE MUGCOLOGNE COOKIESDOLLEARRINGSELECTRONICSFLOWERSGAMEGIFT BASKETGIFT CARDHERBAL TEASJEWELRYMONEY MOVIE

MUSICNECKLACENECKTIEPANTSPENDANTPERFUMEPLANTSCARFSHIRTSLIPPERS SNEAKERSSOCKSSTUFFED ANIMALSWEATERTELEVISIONTOOL SETTOYTREE ORNAMENTWATCHWINE

After being away on business for a week before Christmas, Tom thought it would be nice to bring his wife

a little gift. “How about some perfume?” he asked the cos-

metics clerk. She showed him a bottle costing $50. “That’s a bit much,” said Tom, so she returned with a smaller bottle for $30. “That’s still quite a bit,” Tom groused. Growing disgusted, the clerk brought

out a tiny $15 bottle. Tom grew agitated, “What I mean,” he said, “is I’d like to see some-thing real cheap.” So the clerk handed him a mirror.

Across1. He, to Hadrian5. Multigenerational tales10. Historic time periods14. Persuade with flattery15. Get ___ on: hurry16. Pet of the Flintstones17. Madonna role19. Catch, slangily20. “___Eat Cake”21. Settle snugly23. Pews’ place26. Discus great Al27. Noel Coward play32. Certain votes33. “Borat” creator ___ BaronCohen34. A heap38. Advanced math

40. Oscar-winning Jessica42. Sports org. with a Marchtourney43. Coffee time, maybe45. Seaside towns47. Babylonian sky god48. Elvis’s first feature film, ora 1956 #1 hit51. Hoi ___54. River at Chartres55. Devalues58. Mr. Nasser62. Welk word63. Fast rhythm66. Scrawny67. Find in a viewfinder68. Site of Vance A.F.B.69. Period in Cong.70. Winter transport

71. “The Untouchables” protagonistDown1. Reykjavik’s home: Abbr.2. “All You Need is ___”: Beatles3. Cafe au lait4. Dimensions5. Schmo6. Letters in many black church names7. “Earth in the Balance” author Al8. Stratford-on-___(Shakespeare’s birthplace)9. It picks up readings10. Noted role for Art Carney11. Happy as a lark12. “Have ___ day!”13. Cobbler, at times18. Asian nannies22. Cover an upper surface24. ___ Marsala25. Prison break, e.g.27. Sheet of cotton28. Ancient harp29. “Love ___ the air”30. ___ Penh31. “My sentiments exactly”35. W. Point, e.g.36. Soren Kierkegaard, e.g.37. Suffix with dino-39. Armada ships41. Accusatory Latin phrase44. Open wasteland46. Sturdy fabric49. Outlooks50. Straighten up51. They’re taken by H.S. juniors52. ____ ball (alert)53. Annual telethon host Jerry56. Seed jacket57. It’s on the watch59. Greedy word60. Author Martin or Kingsley61. Some digital displays, briefly64. Rubber stamp accompanier65. They rank below capts.

Christmas Gift Ideas

May your Christmas sparkle with moments

of love, laughterand goodwill,

And may the year ahead be full of con-

tentment and joy.


Santa will be making his annual stop this year at the Totem Mall in Fort St. John staring Dec. 3. Stop by and get a photo from Santa’s friends from Imagine That and tell Santa what you’d like this year. Santa will not be taking pic-tures with pets due to some children having allergies.• Baby’s First Christmas Dec.

3: 10 am-1 pm and from 2-5 pm

• Baby’s First Christmas Dec. 4: 10 am-1 pm and from 2-5 pm

• Regular Photos Dec. 6: 1-5 pm and 6-7 pm

• Regular Photos Dec. 7: 10 am-1 pm and 2-5 pm


• Regular Photos Dec.12: 10 am-1 pm and 2-5 pm

• Regular Photos Dec. 13: 1-5 pm


• Regular Photos Dec. 17: 10 am-1 pm and 2-5 pm and 6-7 pm


• Regular Photos Dec. 20: 1-5 pm and 6-7 pm



Sponsored by Imagine That in the Totem Mall.

By Bruce LantzIt’s a long, and sometimes lonely,

trail on the way toward a political party leadership bid.

Dan Brooks knows this. The for-mer Nechako-Lakes candidate and BC Conservative party director, who’s running against Vancouver financier Rick Peterson for the lead-ership of the BC Conservative Party in next April’s vote, was in the Peace region recently, drawing 15 people to a Dawson Creek event and exact-ly none to one in Fort St. John.

That didn’t faze him. “There’s lots going on here (Fort St. John) tonight,” said Brooks, who said the average turnout for stops along his tour has been 15.

Born and raised in Vanderhoof, with a stint on the family farm in Alberta, Brooks has a Bachelor’s Degree (Honours) in Classical (Greek and Roman) Studies from the University of Waterloo. He has worked for the past 15 years as a guide-outfitter and owns a hunting and fishing lodge 50 kilometres southwest of Vanderhoof. He is active in regional and community organizations including the Upper Nechako Wilderness Council, which he founded, the Wilderness Tourism Association and the Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce.

Brooks and his wife, Ellen, have seven daughters. “Anyone who can raise seven daughters is qualified to be the Premier,” he quipped.

Brooks said he’s concerned about a “centralization of power” in Victoria, with decisions made there putting people out of jobs. Having once fought to change the Liberal party “from within”, he joined the Conservative Party and ran unsuc-

cessfully for them in Nechako Lakes. Now, after the part’s disastrous showing in the last election, he said a leader is needed to take the Conservatives to the next level.

“I don’t want the Vancouver elite to run the party,” he said, suggesting it was that elite that ruined their chances in the last election.

Brooks already has planned his platform, which includes eliminat-ing the ‘party whip’ system that requires MLAs to vote the party line regardless of the feelings of their constituents, eliminating patronage, returning fiscal responsibility to government and rebuilding the rural resource economy.

“There is way too much empha-sis on Vancouver,” he said. “The Vancouver economy is fed by the northern and resource economy so we have to rebuild the rural resource economy. Our growth is stagnant. Northeastern BC is the only region increasing in population. The others are all losing and that’s a direct result of the economic decline in rural BC.”

If chosen as leader Brooks said he will never allow the party whip system. Instead, he will allow ‘free’ votes within his party, followed by a “unity vote” in the House that will still allow MLAs to vote their con-science on issues important to their constituents. “If we can prove it works for our party then we can do it for the whole Legislature,” he added.

Brooks also is calling for fiscal responsibility, citing that since the Liberals took office in 2001 the pro-vincial debt has nearly doubled, to $56 billion from $33 billion – a number that rises to $150 billion when contractural debt is added –

with $2.6 billion being paid in inter-est every year.

If elected party leader, Brooks promises he will immediately start recruiting candidates from across BC.

“There has been a concentration of power within a few individuals but I want to decentralize,” he said. Brooks said it’s imperative that the government changes the way it oper-ates and the way it governs, citing the fact that in the past the Legislature was in session for just36 days, com-pared with an average 120 days in the 1970s. “At this rate we won’t need MLAs anymore. We have to restore the Legislature and legisla-tive powers.”

If the Conservative Party fields a “solid team” in the next election people would be “shocked” at how many will switch allegiance, said Brooks, who expects 30-40 candi-dates from his party could be elect-ed. “They will come from rural BC. That’s where we’ll win.”

Brooks hits the election road

Dan Brooks

By Sue Stark“Isn’t there ANYONE who

knows what Christmas is all about?” Who can ever forget those famous words shouted by Charlie Brown as he stood alone over his little tree?

We all know the story of Charlie Brown’s Christmas, and what I loved most - besides my fav, Snoopy’s decorated doghouse - was when Charlie Brown asked that powerful question, because when he did, everything changed.

What is Christmas all about? Everyone would have a different

answer to that for sure, but none of the millions of answers would mat-ter except one: what Christmas is all about just for YOU!

Talk about the ultimate peer pres-sure for adults. If ever there was temptation to have – or do – what

others do, it is definitely at this time of year. But, ironically, there is never a better time to practise being you and who you are than during the holiday season.

All that matters, always, is what you think. When we think of what Christmas is all about to others, it is very easy to get lost in the “Oh I am so behind - or “I am not ready” - and the always nagging “This is not enough” - instead of what Christmas is really about for you.

Christmas certainly isn’t one day a year; it is a frame of mind . . . a most famous quote by a guy who supposedly only works one day a year. (Gosh, who can’t believe in a man who says stuff like that!)

I am reminded every year, when Charlie Brown’s Christmas comes on TV, that it’s all about the power-ful questions we ask when we are all

alone, standing over what we believe is a mistake. Now there is a lesson for the whole year - to look at all that stuff as a Charlie Brown Tree.

So . . . What is your Charlie Brown Tree right now? This question is a powerful opportunity to stop and stand over the unwrapped or un-bought gifts, or the stuff that is not done and ask, “What is this really all about?” And remember, the caveat to that is this: “according to you”. But hey, if you need help then insert, “according to Charlie Brown”.

I want to take this chance to say a very Merry Christmas to you and wish you and all your loved ones a Wonderful Holiday and the chance to Celebrate this Wonderful Life - Our greatest gift of all. xO big hug and Lots of Love, SueSue Stark is the owner of Sue Stark Consulting.

What is your Charlie Brown Tree?

Santa’s coming!


Editor:In the November 2013 editorial,

‘Considering Reality’ you outlined some of the potential pitfalls of our provincial government’s current “chirpy, chirpy, joy, joy” enthusiasm for LNG overseas markets.

I was reminded of another plan for the guaranteed future prosperity of BC that fell short through a simi-lar excess of enthusiasm, untem-pered by the realities of international trade - namely, Tumbler Ridge. It was the bright, shining star of the Bill Bennett era, as I recall, and BC was going to reap untold wealth through the sale of top-quality indus-

trial coal at premium prices.And so it did - for a little while.

Then other coal supplies came on the market, prices went down and the companies in Tumbler Ridge were forced to renegotiate their con-tracts for much lower prices. Eventually, market slumps - and other factors, no doubt - brought coal production to a standstill and Tumbler Ridge only survived as a community through the sheer guts and determination of the people who wanted to continue living there. (I would love to know if, during the period of relative prosperity, BC ever recouped all the money the government of the time poured into

the project.) In the meantime, as some had warned, northeast coal undercut the coal mining industry in the Crowsnest Pass, reducing pros-perity - and revenue - from that region.

Personally, over the years, I have become extremely wary of the kind of unbounded enthusiasm that refus-es to countenance possible failure. I’ve seen it fall short, at best, or just plain flat on its face, too darned often. This blithe faith in LNG, Site C and megaproject mentality makes me very uneasy.Laura Lee LifeMontney

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Be wary of government enthusiasm

Editor:I was able to sit and read the

October edition of the Flipside and read two articles relating to United Way of Northern BC through a Day of Caring and the Fire Truck Pull.

Thank you very much for your support for the work we do for the community and the northeast region with our corporate partners. Our success is due to positive articles in the media, which helps to build a greater awareness in the community that helps us to drive a more suc-

cessful campaign. This in turn helps us invest crucial programs and ser-vices and help the not-for-profit sec-tor to thrive.

There is a relationship between the value that industry brings to the community and region in supporting the not-for-profit local service agen-cies, as the growth of the population is rapid and is vital that agencies receive funds to provide good pro-gramming to meet the needs of kids, families, individuals, seniors and people with disabilities.

The not-for-profit organizations provide a crucial service to the com-munity and without them our com-munity would not thrive and, in turn, our industry would also suffer because families would not choose to live in the north.

My sincerest thanks for your sup-port.

Niki HedgesUnited Way of Northern BCCommunity Development & Campaign Coordinator

United Way appreciates media support

The North Peace Literacy Alliance (NPLA) has announced the grant recipients for Fall 2013 with more than $17,000 being awarded to four community projects.

The funds flow through Decoda Literacy Solutions, British Columbia’s non-profit provincial lit-eracy organization, which is repre-sented here by the NPLA. Decoda receives funding from the provincial and federal governments and exter-nal donors.

“Literacy builds communities. Through literacy development, indi-viduals, families and communities become stronger and more resilient. Towards this end, these are the pro-grams we are pleased to be present-ing funding to,” said NPLA outreach coordinator Linda Nielsen.

The programs funded are as fol-lows:

Achievers Toastmasters Club, $5,000 - Offering a free Communications and Leadership Program program to 20 youths between the ages of 12-18. Toastmasters International devel-oped this Youth Leadership program and Northern Lights College also is a partner in it. Youth will learn by

practising new skills in a safe, sup-portive and fun environment. Emphasis is on communication, leadership skills and individual needs. For further information con-tact Joyce Hadland, MA president, at 250-261-3886.

Fort St. John Public Library, $8,471.52 - Offering free Computer Skills Training to a broad spectrum of the community. Instruction is offered in a comfortable, welcom-ing, non-intimidating atmosphere to help improve literacy within the community as well as to aid in the improvement of quality of life for patrons of all ages. This grant allows for up to 378 people in the commu-nity to develop their computer liter-acy skills. For further information contact Kerry France, library direc-tor at 250-785-3731.

Early Learning Initiative, Roots of Empathy, $3,000 - One way to ensure social awareness and compe-tence in children is through the Roots of Empathy program. This program connects a community family with a classroom and school to model car-ing and attentive parenting, adult coping skills, emotional literacy, and perspective taking. The ideal time is

when children are young. There are 11 programs in kindergarten classes around Fort St. John. Partners in the program include SD60, Success by 6, BC Ministry of Children and Family Development. For further information contact Jaimelia Turner, early learning co-ordinator at 250-262-6000.

Early Learning Initiative, Kindergarten Readiness, $ pending -Experts say no single or simple fac-tor determines whether a child is ready for kindergarten. Instead, a child’s development needs to be assisted on several fronts. Their abil-ity to think logically, speak clearly, and interact with other children and adults are all critically important to success in school. A child’s physical development also needs to be con-sidered. This program recognizes the factors that might affect a child’s kindergarten readiness and what par-ents can do to help them succeed in school. This program is currently in the early development stage. For further information contact Jaimelia Turner, early learning co-ordinator at 250-262-6000.

Projects receive literacy funding grants

Places to findThe FlipSide

In Fort St. JohnA & W , Angelic Light, B&M Glass, Burgers & Brews, Bank of Montreal, Casey’s Pub, Credit Union, Cultural Centre, Esquires Coffee House, Dairy Queen, Fort St. John Hospital, Fort St. John Medical Clinic, Fort City Chrysler, Headspace, Humpty’s Family Restaurant, Jackfish Dundee’s, JD Fitzgeralds, Lone Wolf (Taylor), Mama Panda Restaurant, Mile 54 Cafe, Masterpiece Framing, Mile 36 Cafe (Taylor), Northern Grand, Northern Star, Northwoods Inn, On the Rocks Pub, On the Rocks Liquor, Razors Edge, Redwood Esso (Taylor), Rogers Trucking, Royal Bank, Rudy’s Car & Truck Wash, Systems Secure, Stonebridge Hotel, Taylor District Office, TD Bank, The Shed (Taylor), Tim Hortons (North & South), Quiznos, Urban Thredz, Whole Wheat & Honey

In Dawson CreekAlaska Highway House, A & W, Aurora Inn, Bill’s News, Brass Scissors, CIBC, Dawson Creek Visitor Center, Days Inn Lobby, Dr. Fletcher’s Office, Eljen Clinic, Farmington Store, George Dawson Lobby & Café, Hospital Main, Husky, Lees Restaurant, Rockwells, Stuie’s Diner, Subway, The Lodge, Tim Hortons, TD Bank, White Spot


‘House concerts’ offer a special treat

How to stay ‘smooth’ this dry, dry winterBy Chelsea Toews

Christmas is in the air . . . and it looks like cracked skin!

It’s so dry up here in the winter that I can’t seem to keep dry skin under control. There are so many different creams out there but the trick is finding the one that works best for you. I have tried so many and still my skin feels or looks like an alligator!

The air mixed with the hard water is so hard on our skin. Here are a few tips to keeping smooth this winter:

FACE: Facials are amazing for keeping the face hydrated and glow-ing and eliminating the flaky, dry look and feel. There are many to

choose from out there, but be sure to pick one that is exfoliating (sluffs off dry, dead skin) and super-mois-turizing during this time of year. You can also use coconut oil to keep moisturized.

HANDS: I love the Mary Kay Satin Hands treatment, personally, it exfoliates and then moisturizes with an extra emollient cream. Your hands feel amazing! Another great hand cream is Glysomed. It has a silicone base so there is still a barrier on your skin when you wash your hands, etc.

LEGS: My legs get so dry and wearing leggings with dry skin . . . no good! I just bought the Spray On Vaseline cream and didn’t love it. It wasn’t a strong enough moisturizer

for me. I like to use body butters for my legs because they can stay a bit greasy since they are usually cov-ered up.

FEET: Ah the good ol’ cracked winter feet. A good foot scrub is so important! And using your pumice every couple of days to sluff off excess dry skin, then put a heavy cream or coconut oil on them and instantly put a pair of socks on for the night. This will keep the mois-ture in and help soften rough feet.

So there are a few winter tips for you. Hope they work!

Everyone at Diamond Cherry wish you all a wonderful holiday season!

Chelsey Toews is the owner of Diamond Cherry Beauty Bar.

By Bruce LantzThe life of a touring musician

can be a lonely one. Driving across Western Canada in winter is lonelier still. Singer-songwriter Chris Carmichael knows this first hand.

Carmichael recently made his way to Fort St. John from his Winnipeg home to play a house con-cert at Headspace, white-knuckling it through a blizzard that never left him and playing for often sparse audiences along the way.

“It’s tough. You’re going all the time with no days off,” he said. You get up, drive, play and then do it again the next day.

“I ask myself ‘why’ but it’s because I love to play music. It’s what I do. It’s my job.”

Driving alone can be lonely and more than a little risky - he was off to Mackenzie, Prince George and Williams Lake the next day despite heavy snowfall warnings and the experience of the Pine Pass waiting – but that’s the job.

“If I’m not playing then the cre-ative juices aren’t exactly flowing,” he said.

One of the most in-demand gui-tarists and drummers in Winnipeg’s remarkable roots and blues music community, Carmichael has provid-ed a wealth of talent and experience to countless recording sessions and live performances. He plays his own material, which he classifies as roots rock, as well as the songs of others – country, blues, and rock and roll. A finger picking marvel, he thrilled the full house at Headspace.

This was another in a series of shows Headspace owner Henry See has offered in for the past five years as part of the Home Routes circuit offered by the organizers of the Winnipeg Folk Festival. Faye and Cam Eggleston are among the most devoted attendees, making every effort to show up if they’re in town,

as well as attending other music shows in the city.

“There’s nothing like live music. It’s good for the soul,” said Faye. “It’s healing and fun and, because it’s Fort St. John, we usually know at least half the people. It’s a good social time.”

Cam said the setting offers a “comfortable, casual corner” much like a living room., aided by the great atmosphere of Headspace. And the caliber of musicians coming to play is “awesome”, Faye added. “The Home Routes musicians come from all over Canada and they’re some of the best of the best. We’ve never been disappointed.”

She said the concerts are very special, even moving, offering an intimate evening of music, storytell-ing and interaction between the musicians and the audience. “You get a personal connection with the artist that you’d never get in a larger venue,” she said.

Watch for more talented and unique artists performing at local house concerts in the future.

Bruce Lantz photoWinnipeg’s Chris Carmichael entertains the crowd at a Headspace house concert.

Bruce Lantz photoFaye and Cam Eggleston are regulars at local music events.

The popular Strawberry Jam nights at Fort St. John’s Lido Theatre will soon be no more. The monthly events, featuring a wide variety of local musicians, are ending Dec. 3.

But, music-lovers, fear not.Lido owner Brian Kirschner said

that after 47 consecutive shows it was time for an ending – “to make way for something new, a new begin-

ning”.Starting in February the “jams”

will be split, transitioning to a “coun-try jam”, a “rock jam”, a “blues jam”, a “folk jam”, etc.

“We wanted the nights to be focused on one certain genre of music,” Kirschner said, adding that it will be better for both audience and artists to focus on one type of

music each event. This, he said, will attract those appreciative of that style of music, instead of mixing several types in one event, thus ensuring that some in the audience may not appreciate what’s being offered by some of the musicians.

Kirschner may launch a contest to name to new series of jams. More on that later, maybe.

Last Strawberry Jam at Lido on Dec. 3

8 The Flipside December 2013

The Wilderness Committee has announced that Peace region farmers Ken and Arlene Boon are the win-ners of the 2013 Eugene Rogers Environment Award for their long-time dedication to protecting the Peace River Valley from the impacts associated with the proposed Site C Dam.

Since 1992, the Eugene Rogers Award has been presented to indi-viduals recognized by the Wilderness Committee for their outstanding contribution to environmental pro-tection in British Columbia. The award is granted once a year at the Wilderness Committee’s Annual General Meeting, along with a $1,000 prize.

Ken and Arlene Boon are the owners of Bear Flats Farm, located on the banks of the Peace River between Fort St. John and Hudson’s Hope. For three generations the fam-ily has resisted plans to dam the river, which would flood over 100 kilometres of valley-bottom lands – including not only their own farm but thousands of acres of agricultur-al land, critical wildlife habitat, heri-tage landmarks and First Nations cultural sites.

“Ken and Arlene are family farm-ers who have stepped up to become passionate spokespeople for the beauty and abundance of the Peace River Valley, and about the need to protect it by stopping the proposed Site C Dam,” said Joe Foy, national campaign director at the Wilderness Committee. “The fight to save this amazing valley is given new urgen-cy with the commencement of the joint federal/provincial environmen-tal review of the project, starting on Dec. 9.”

The proposed $8-billion Site C Dam is opposed by many groups and individuals across the province – including the region’s First Nations – due to its impact on the surround-ing lands, as well as the massive cost associated with this unneeded proj-ect.

“We were shocked and greatly honoured to receive this award. We appreciate the work the Wilderness Committee does for various causes such as fighting the proposed Site C dam, and hope this award can help bring public awareness to this issue,” said Ken Boon. “Arlene and I plan to put the cheque to good use in the battle to stop Site C once and for

all.”This year’s winners join past

Eugene Rogers Award recipients such as former Xeni Gwet’in Chief Marilyn Baptiste, wild salmon activ-ist Alexandra Morton, and last year’s winner, Rafe Mair (honoured for his outspoken opposition to salmon farms, pipelines and private hydro-

power).The Boons were unable to attend

the ceremony but the award was accepted on their behalf by writer and director Charles Wilkinson, whose feature documentary ‘Peace Out’ looks at the effects of energy mega-projects like Site C on north-west Canada’s people and their rap-

Local couple wins environmental award

Contributed photoKen and Arlene Boon have battled Site C for decades.

By Lori SlaterDecember is Accessible Parking

Awareness Month in Fort St. John. Have you ever pulled into a designated accessible space because you are ‘just running in for a minute’? If you have, you are breaking the law! Under Division 38 of the Motor Vehicle Act it is a federal offence to park in a designated accessible parking space without the proper parking permit.**

Designated parking allows people with disabilities to have access to buildings and services in the community. People who qualify for parking permits need the extra width of the designated spaces to get in and out of vehicles when using wheelchairs, crutches, cane or other mobility aids therefore only people with a valid parking permit are able to park in those spaces. The spaces are well marked with signage with a white wheelchair on a blue background (in most cases). There are other types of signage but in all cases they are very clearly marked. There is no excuse for parking there if you do not have a permit.

The Accessible Parking Awareness Campaign has been in our community for five years. The goal of the campaign is to educate and make people aware of how when you take an accessible spot and don’t need it; you are taking the ability to carry out everyday tasks away from someone who lives with

a disability. We work with local businesses and the City by handing out brochures and red STOP signs saying ‘Imagine being in our place…Please don’t park in our space’ decals. You may have received one of the decals over the years. They are meant to be a reminder that those spaces are not for you.

Many times in the past eight years since I have been in a wheelchair I have been unable to park because someone has illegally taken an accessible spot. It’s very frustrating not being able to get where I need to go.

I hope you will join us in raising

awareness that designated accessible parking is a necessity for people with disabilities not a luxury. Brochures and STOP signs are available at City Hall or the Fort St. John Association for Community Living.

For more information or to get involved in the campaign please contact me. Together we will make our community accessible for all.

** For more information on the Parking Permit Program please contact SPARC BC, www.sparc.bc.ca or myself.

Lori Slater is an Accessibility and Inclusion Advocate in Fort St. John. If you have any comments, questions or concerns you can contact her through the ‘The FlipSide’ or [email protected]

‘Think before you park’, says advocate

Lori Slater

Plans are underway to demolish the old Fort St. John hospital.

Northern Health has been unable to find anyone who wants the building, including other government depart-ments, First Nations and the City of Fort St. John, due to the cost of reno-vating a building that likely includes hazardous materials. It was put up for sale to the private sector but the eight proponents who had expressed interest

backed out after reviewing studies and/or the property and discussing the Official Community Plan for the site with city officials.

“There was an indication of inter-est if the building is removed from the property,” said Northern Health CEO Cathy Ulrich, adding that a company has been retained to do that work and has begun.

Hospital to go


By Bruce LantzMoving to the Peace country just

in time for winter isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But it hasn’t fazed the new coordinator of Peace Gallery North in Fort St. John.

Barry Moss, who moved here from Ottawa, has been too busy get-ting ready for the pre-Christmas sale season and other administrative tasks to pay much attention to the weather.

“It’s cold but it’s a dry cold,” he said, sounding like a native north-erner.

Fort St. John is just the latest stop in a career – and life – that saw him spend the first 12 years of his life, after being born in Ottawa, living in the UK with his grandmother and attending an Irish Catholic school, followed by stints later as an adult in France, England and Wales.

An accomplished artist himself, with painting, textiles and sculpture being his media of choice, Moss started working for Ottawa’s Koyman Gallery in 1980 as mer-chandize director. He left eight years later to tour for a home décor com-

pany before returning to Koyman, where he was responsible for hang-ing and curating in the 13,000 square foot main gallery and also in two sister galleries, one 1,700 square feet and the other 1,300 square feet in size.

Then the North came calling and after phoning and Skyping with North Peace Cultural Centre execu-tive director Bettyanne Hampton, he decided to move with partner Alan White to Peace Gallery North in Fort St. John, replacing longtime director Shar Coultry, who recently passed away from cancer.

“I had no idea where Fort St. John was, didn’t know how far up north it was,” he said. “But there was an opportunity here to be really effective in a wide range of the arts, not just pictures. This place has all the visual arts. I only wish it was three times larger so we could have more exhibition space.”

Moss has been impressed since he arrived a few short weeks ago with the caliber of artistic talent being produced in this region. “I get excited when I see good work,” he said, “regardless of what it is.”

He’s already making plans for the future. While nothing is carved in stone yet, he wants to have two juried exhibitions in the coming year, along with an exhibit of black and white photography, and another by Flying Colours. Moss also said he has been approached by a “very

well known” Dene artist who’d like to put an exhibit in the gallery. “He’s nationally known and his pieces are expensive,” said Moss. “To have someone of that calibre would be a major show.”

And who knows what the talent-ed Moss will come up with next?

Bruce Lantz photoBarry Moss is calling Peace Gallery North home these days.

New gallery chief eyes bright future in FSJ

ADVERTORIALFerris Fast Cycles a local gem

Bruce Lantz photoPat Ferris of Ferris Fast Cycles is there for hobbyists and competi-tive riders alike, and has fashioned a second career as a writer, his first book being ‘Gypsies’ about, of course, competitive cycling.

What do you do when you want to start a successful business? Start in your basement, of course.

That’s how Pat Ferris started Ferris Fast Cycles, which has grown from a basement showroom, con-sisting of a children’s card table littered with bicycle tubes and tires, to arguably the best bicycle sales and repair shop north of the Okanagan.

“When we started in 1997 you couldn’t even get tires here; you had to mail order everything,” said Ferris, a competitive cyclist who moved to Fort St. John in the 70s as a corporate trainer with Westcoast Energy. He soon moved out of his basement and into his current facil-ity at 10109-105 Avenue, now grown to 2,000 square feet, the only dedicated bike shop in the Peace Country.

“We’re specialists. We carry nothing but bikes, bike equipment and bike parts,” he said. “We have all the stuff and we’re trained in it all. All our staff are cyclists or rac-ers and they know their stuff.”

His staff (5-6 in summer and 2.5 in winter) tend to stick around, per-

haps because Ferris believes in con-stant training – and because it’s “a fun place to work”.

The business is built on the expertise of Ferris and his staff, and the good advice they share with rid-ers of all skill levels. A common misconception is that Ferris Fast Cycles just sells racing bikes. Not so. Ninety per cent of their sales are mountain bikes.

“We have road bikes as fancy as you can get anywhere,” Ferris said, adding that their prices are the same in Calgary or Vancouver, with no provincial sales tax charged on bikes and main parts, and even some labour.

They also fix everything they sell. In fact, they repair up to 1,000 bikes a year - those they sell and those from larger stores without repair experts - and stock a wide variety of parts. They even have a bike-fitting machine to ensure you get the bike that’s right for you.

“You need someone with a cycling background who knows what you need in a bike,” said Ferris. “That’s why you should go to a specialist.”

Director Wayne Hiebert has resigned his elected position as Electoral Area ‘D’

Director on the Peace River Regional District board effective immediately. He served for eight years. He was also vice-chair of the PRRD.

“It has been an honour to serve the people of Area ‘D’,” Hiebert said. “I have met many people along the way and been able to work on some really important issues with them. I am truly proud of our accom-plishments together as a board and cannot stress enough how much I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and engaged group of staff, directors, and constituents of Area ’D‘. Without question, I will always remember the people when I reflect on my time spent at the Peace River Regional District.”

Some highlights of his term included bringing natural gas house-holds in Tomslake, installing sewer into the Imperial and Harper subdi-visions, funding the Rolla colum-barium, acquiring of firefighting equipment in Tomslake, Pouce Coupe, Dawson Creek and Arras and working with the community halls and recreation commissions to ensure that community activities in the rural area continued.

As well as representing Area “D”, Wayne served as vice-chair of the Regional Board as well as on many regional district committees including; Chair of the Agriculture Advisory Committee; the PRRD Executive Management Committee, Rural Budgets Administration Committee, Electoral Area Directors Committee, Water Act Modernization Committee, Policing, Public Utilities Committee, Rolla Sewer Committee, South Peace Rescue Vehicle Committee, Dawson Creek / Pouce Coupe Fire Management Committee, Emergency Management Committee, Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel, South Peace Sub-regional Recreation

Commission, Taylor Fire Management Committee, and the Tomslake Fire Management Committee.

Hiebert was also appointed to represent the Regional District at the Alaska Highway Community Tourism Association, Dawson Creek Community Tourism Foundation, Dawson Creek Heritage Commission, Northeast Air Quality Monitoring Stakeholder Advisory Group, Northern Development Initiative Trust - Northeast Regional Area

Committee, Site C Regional and Local Government Liaison Committee (Clean Energy Project), and the Regional Agricultural Adaptation Strategies (Regional Agriculture Plan).

“Wayne’s unwavering commit-ment to act in the best interest of our region was evident,” said PRRD chair Karen Goodings.” I know this was not an easy decision for Wayne and I respect his need to move on and while I will miss his always thoughtful input at the meetings I wish him the best.”

Alternate director Leonard Hiebert (no relation) of Tomslake has assumed the responsibility of Director for Electoral Area ‘D’. A byelection will be held Feb 14.

Hiebert moved to the Tomslake area in 2008 from LaCrete Alberta. “It is my love of agriculture, the environment and my community that made me decide to take on this appointment,” he said “I want to give back to my community.”

A livestock producer, he also works for Koala-T First Aid. He comes from an agricultural back-ground, has a well-rounded under-standing of the oil and gas issues and is empathetic to the issues in his community, a PRRD press release said.

Electoral Area E Director Jerrilyn Schembri has been elected vice-chair of the board for the remainder of 2013 term.

PRRD director steps down


Bruce Lantz photoKay Linley, left, and friend Susan Durban protest outside Fort St. John city hall, objecting to what they say are unjust penalties levied against Linley and perhaps other seniors over what the city says is the failure to cooperate with the installation of water meters, a claim Linley denies.

Bruce Lantz photoSharon Teigland, right, and her daughter Ashley Holt find lots to consider at the Ten Thousand Villages market held in Fort St. John recently.

Bruce Lantz photoLocal band Folky Strum Strum delights a full house at their recent CD release party at Whole Wheat and Honey in Fort St. John.

Contributed photoUnited Way of Northern BC was proud to present a Top 25 Workplace Campaigns award to RBC Dawson Creek. These awards acknowledge those workplaces throughout northern BC whose employee participa-tion and contribution levels collectively contribute to the workplace standing among 25 organizations as top investors.

Bruce Lantz photoLiz Lewington and daughter Teagan, 2, observe Remembrance Day in Fort St. John, along with, above, William Litt, who served as a reservist with the Rocky Mountain Rangers.

Bruce Lantz photoKristal Yardley, left, makes a purchase from Sarah Morgan of Twisted Fiber Designs at the Ladies’ Day Out held at the North Peace Cultural Centre recently. The centre was filled with 70 exhibitors offering spe-cial and unique items for the ladies.

Cindy Larmondin photoBob Zimmer, MP for Prince George-Peace River, met with young Prince George entrepre-neur Shauna Harper Nov. 21 as part of Startup Day on Parliament Hill. Harper is the founder of Startup Prince George, and was named 2013 Business Person of the Year by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. She was in Ottawa representing northern BC as part of ‘Startup Day on the Hill’, an event promoting entre-preneurship across Canada.


Local News Briefs Coming Events

Free ClassifiedsGlass and chrome bar, curved, 3 lev-els. Never used. $250 Call 250-263-8297Electric pressure washer, Simo-niz 1900. 1.5 gpm, 1900 psi. Never used. $150 (Reg. $275) Call 250-263-8297

FOR SALE HELP WANTED

Sales person needed for The Flipside News. Commision based ad sales. Flexible hours. High earning poten-tial. Must be self motivated. Call Bruce at 250-264-8888 or email [email protected]

HELP WANTEDHelp wanted – Wolverine Motors is growing and needs another experi-enced Automotive Technician im-mediately. Journeyman preferred. Should be self-motivated, efficient, trustworthy, and know how to trou-bleshoot and diagnose problems accurately. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and get along well with others. We pay top wages and have a benefit plan. Re-sumes to Wolverine Motors, 10908-100 Ave., Fort St. John or email to [email protected] or phone Ron at 250-787-6703.

Answers sought in teen’s deathThe RCMP has confirmed the iden-

tity of the body that was found deceased at the local motocross track Nov. 24 as Jonathan Bruce, a 16-year-old Fort St. John youth.

“There are many officers working extremely hard to determine what hap-pened to this youth,” stated Cpl. Jodi Shelkie. “We are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious during the late evening of Nov. 23 or early morning of Nov. 24 at or near the motocross area to please give the RCMP a call at 250-787-8100 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.”

The reason for Bruce’s death is still being actively investigated by the Fort St. John RCMP and North District Major Crime Unit. An autopsy will be held to determine the cause of death.Tractor used in escape

Police nabbed a shooting suspect last month who stole a tractor to make his getaway.

Dawson Creek RCMP received a complaint that a person had been shot and when they arrived on scene, the suspect, believed to be armed, had fled on foot. Police dogs tracked the suspect to a farm where he stole a tractor. The unique tractor tire marks were then tracked along the Alaska Highway to the Fort St. John area. Police dogs were used once again to track the suspect from the tractor to a residence in Southridge Trailer Park. The RCMP Emergency Response Team was deployed along with members of the Fort St. John RCMP to the residence. The suspect came out of the home and turned himself over to police without incident. A firearm was recovered.

The Dawson Creek male who was shot underwent surgery for non-life threatening injuries. The suspect is being held in custody awaiting numer-ous charges. The incident is still being investigated by Dawson Creek and Fort St. John RCMP.Rotary helps Philippines

The Rotary Clubs of Dawson Creek and a group of individual Rotarians have joined together in support of the Storming Back: Shelter the Philippines fundraising event.

Rotary will match donations from the community to a maximum of $25,000. They ask that you make your donation to the Rotary Clubs of Dawson Creek, and they will match it and for-ward the total amount to Shelterbox Canada, where it will then be matched by the Government of Canada. Your $100 donation will become $400 through these matching programs. Donors will receive a donation receipt

from Shelterbox Canada for the total amount of the donation.

For more information contact John Kurjata or Tim Schilds at 250-782-2840. Donations can be dropped off to the offices of Schilds Kurjata Kelly at #101, 1136-103 Ave., Dawson Creek.Building bylaw gone

The Peace River Regional District has rescinded its controversial rural building bylaw – or has it?

After weeks of public meetings and listening to angry rural residents who opposed the bylaw, the PRRD repealed it last month over the objections of staff, who listed the detrimental effects of the repeal. A report on how to handle the outcomes of this decision is expected in January. The gallery was packed with angry rural residents, some calling for PRRD chair Karen Goodings to resign. One resident had to be removed by police.

But then the PRRD board decided to meet Dec. 2 to determine if the bylaw should come back – but with the option that rural builders could have the choice of taking out a building permit or not.

A referendum may be held during the next election, asking residents if they want a building inspection bylaw.Local men awarded

Fort St. John’s Jim Jarvis and Allen Zackodnik have received the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC President’s Award for Community Service.

Jarvis and Zackodnik got the award recently in Whistler during the organi-zation’s annual general meeting and awards gala.

The men helped organize the annual Popsicle Stick Bridge Building contest for students as a way to encourage them to become engineers. The President’s Awards are the province’s most presti-gious for professional engineers and geoscientists, and recognize outstand-ing, professional, technical, and com-munity contributions by association members.Building permits up

Building permits are continuing to increase in Fort St. John.

Forty-two permits worth $15.6 mil-lion were issued in October, more than three times the $4.9 million in October 2012.

The year-to-date total is now $120.7 million, compared to $53.8 million at this point in 2012.

City revenue from permits this year is now $605,600, more than double the $271,600 total for the same period last year.

Dec. 5-7 – ‘Stars Were Gleaming.’ Come to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 11412-100 Street, Fort St. John and enjoy hundreds of nativity scenes and art from around the world and learn how different cultures depict the story of the First Christmas. There are so many to see and some will surprise you. Your family will be touched by the Spirit of Christmas. 2-8 pm. Please visit our website at www.fortstjohnnativity.blogspot.ca for more information and to see pictures of past displays.Dec. 7 - Community Christmas Concert and Sale of Christmas Baking at South Peace United Church, 1300-104th Ave., Dawson Creek, starts at 7 pm. Admission by donation to St. Marks Food Bank and Nawican Food Services.Dec. 8 - The Dawson Creek Library is having a Family Christmas Afternoon with sing-alongs, stories, games, crafts, and a visit from Santa, starting at 2 pm. Bring your camera and take a picture to be treasured. Refreshments and door prizes.Dec. 8 - The Fort St. John Huskies Fill the Bus Food Drive. All proceeds go to our local Salvation Army. Watch for the boys in their jerseys in your neighbour-hood or bring your donations to the FSJ Rec Centre between 11 am-3 pm. Any non-parishable food items, kids’ lunch items, coffee, tea, juice and other non-alcoholic drinks would be greatly appre-ciated.Dec. 8 - Join the Children’s Christmas Party at the Fort St. John Legion from 1-5 pm. There will be a visit from Santa at 2 pm. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. All children must be pre-registered and it is open to children ages up to 12 years. All registered children in attendance will be eligible for prizes with separate prizes drawn for girls, boys, and different age categories, depending on sponsors and donations received. A wrapped gift for each child ($10-$15 limit) is to be provided by registrants. The gifts must be tagged with the child’s first and last name (to be handed out by Santa). An adult draw for those adults who bring an item for the food bank will also be made.Dec. 13-24 - Do you like wrapping presents? Then Santa Claus wants YOU! The Fort St. John Cancer Society is holding its annual Christmas Wrap fundraiser. We are looking for volun-teers to help wrap presents for three-hour shifts. If interested, please contact Ruth at 250-785-4005.Dec. 13 - The third annual ‘Get from Giving’ event is happening from 11am-3pm at the Fort St. John Women’s Resource Centre. Make a charitable donation of non-perishable food or

hygiene items for the Outreach Store, a gift for a child’s Christmas hamper or a financial contribution to help the Women’s Resource Centre. In return we will feed you a steaming bowl of stew and a fresh piece of bannock. Come share a meal with us and enjoy conver-sation and an opportunity to help those in need.Dec. 14 - Come visit Santa at the Fort St. John Library at 2 pm. The jolly old elf will be coming to town to read sto-ries and meet his favourite little friends in the Children’s Area. Sing songs, build a craft and share a treat with Santa and your friends. Santa is even willing to take pictures with kids! Free and drop-in.Dec. 15 - Studio 2 Stage Christmas Recital - This year, there will be 3 amazing shows to choose from, 11:30 am, 2 pm, and 7 pm. Tickets are available at the North Peace Cultural Centre box office, on-line http://ow.ly/rb4Du, or by phone 250-785-1992. Let these young dancers get you into the holiday spirit. Invite your family and friends. There will also be a bake sale in the lobby and a silent auction fundraiser to benefit the competitive groups.Dec.16 - The Northern Lights Youth Choir & Northern Winds Community Band present ‘Songs of the Season’ at the North Peace Cultural Centre in Fort St. John. Come and join for a great eve-ning of beautiful seasonal music from the classics to the Grinch - and even a chance to sing along! 7 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm). Adults $15, Seniors/Youth $10, Children 5 & Under – FREE.Dec. 19-21 - Stage North sets the stage for a fun evening and a funny slant with Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!). Three of Stage North’s veteran comics will bring dozens of Christmas tales to the stage for a light-hearted look at the classic stories that make Christmas a magic time. The show opens Dec 19 at 7 pm at the North Peace Cultural Centre in Fort St. John for three performances only. Tickets are available online at tickets.npcc.bc.ca or at the NPCC box office. Theatre tickets make wonderful Christmas presents even if you have to give them a bit early. For further information phone Karma at 250-262-8147.Dec. 31 - The Fort St. John Derrick Dance Club will be hosting a New Year’s Eve supper and dance in the Senior Citizens Hall at 10908-100th St. 5:30 pm - Cocktails; 6:30 pm – Supper; 8 pm - 1 am - Dancing to music by Night Sounds. $45 per person. Everyone 19 and over welcome. For info call Chris at 250-785-1021 or George at 250-827-3396.

Peace Country Toyota in Dawson Creek is in search of a highly moti-vated Product Advisor. The success-ful candidate will enjoy a highly-incentivized pay plan with a great benefit plan included. Peace Country Toyota is one of the fastest-growing Toyota stores in the Prairie zone. We are looking for a great individual to add to our winning team. Please contact Doug Peters, General Sales Manager, Peace Country Toyota 250-784-8233.

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