Clearwater Times, December 27, 2012

POWER FIEND: Local skier likes it steep and deep. See pageA11 inside.

Thursday, December 27, 2012 ▼ Volume 47 No. 52 ▼ www.clearwatertimes.com ▼ $1.40 Includes HST

LOCAL NEWS: SD73 REVIEWS SECURITY PROTOCOL ▼ A2T

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NORTH THOMPSON

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ETimesSecond Place

General ExcellenceB.C. and Yukon

<2,000 circulation2012

Blue RibbonRunner-up

Best All Round Newspaper

All of Canada<1,250 circulation

2012

Keith McNeill

Relatively strong lumber prices mean 2013 should be a steady year for Clearwater, according to Mayor John Harwood.

“I think it should be a fairly stable year. There are a lot of people back to work, and the people in business I talk to are happy,” he said.

Domtar recently announcement that it is shutting down one of the two production lines at its Kamloops pulp-mill. However, Harwood thinks that likely will mean local sawmills simply will need to look for other uses for their chips and other by-products.

The biggest item on the District’s agenda will be taking over road mainte-nance next fall.

Under the terms of incorporation, the province took care of the roads within the new municipality for the first five years. That grace period is about to run out.

The District has been meet-ing with staff from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to help determine what levels of service are desired, said Harwood.

That needs to be determined before the work can be put out to contract.

Also to be determined will be whether District of Clearwater’s road maintenance will be in one big contract, several smaller ones, or done in-house by municipal staff.

Harwood noted that the District is fortunate in that there are already sev-eral businesses in the area with graders and the other necessary equipment.

“We need to have that all lined up before next winter,” said the mayor.

Also on the agenda for the coming year will be construction of new chang-ing rooms at the Sportsplex. The rooms are needed to accommodate the rising number of female hockey players using the arena. Construction is expected to start next spring.

The new eco-depot being built by Thompson-Nicola Regional District near the old Camp Two sawmill site should be fully online early in the new year.

The Clearwater landfill is being gradually shut down in anticipation of the eco-depot opening.

One service that will continue at the landfill will be septage disposal, said Harwood.

A grant has been applied for through the regional district to con-struct a septage disposal facility. In the meantime, a private business will operate the septage disposal pits at the landfill site.

Shutting down the pits would have saved the municipality some money, said the mayor, but would have cost local residents who have their septic tanks pumped, as the septage would have had to be hauled to Heffley Creek.

The District is developing a master plan to extend the sewer system to the area near Dutch Lake. Once the plan is ready staff will apply for grants to help pay for the project.

Also in the works are upgrades to the water system. Some areas on the system have restrictive flows at times, said the mayor.

Locating a heliport next to Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital contin-ues to be on the agenda.

Another health-related project would see the municipality work with the hos-pital and private contractors to provide assisted living within the community.

This would have full-time staff and would provide a level of care somewhat lower than that at Forestview Place extended care wing at DHMH, but higher than that available at Evergreen Acres.

Interior Health Authority is enthused about the project, Harwood said, and there is land available near the hospital.

Such a facility creates its own econo-my that is independent of forestry and mining, he noted.

“I think we’ve done relatively well, so far,” Harwood said of the munici-pality’s progress since incorporation. “People think these things come easily. I’ve worked on some of these projects for three or four years. It just takes time. And if things tighten up, we’ve got to manage for that as well.”

Mayor Harwood hopes for stable year

An elf holds a Happy New Year sign as part of the display at the Ken and Bev Smith residence on Riverview Crescent. Clearwater RCMP remind local residents not to drink and drive as they celebrate the end of 2012 and the start of 2013. For more photos of the Smiths’ display, see page A10 and A11 inside. Photo by Keith McNeill

Happy New Year

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Tim Petruk - Kamloops This Week

The Kamloops-Thompson school district is reviewing its security protocols in the wake of last week’s

mass shooting at an elementary school in Connecticut.

Superintendent Terry Sullivan has told all schools to lock all but the main doors dur-ing the day.

“We’ve always had a

policy of having all visi-tors sign in at the main office,” he said, noting that was sometimes tough to enforce, espe-cially at some of the larger high schools.

“So, not all the doors are locked, but

the main doors are the only ones that will remain open during the day.”

On Friday, Dec. 14, 27 people were killed in Newtown, Conn. Of those, 20 were young students at Sandy Hook Elementary.

The order to lock up Kamloops-area schools came after Sullivan issued two statements to parents - one by phone, the other in the form of a letter sent home with students - about the shooting rampage.

The statements, delivered the day of the shooting, was intended to let parents know school staff members are meeting to help develop a strategy to avoid any potential emotional trauma in students.

To that end, Sullivan said, he encouraged parents to “protect chil-dren from disturbing media reports” about the shooting.

He said he received multiple phone calls from parents after the statements, thanking him for re-assuring them.

Sullivan said the security review will con-tinue.

Times Staff

Yellowhead Mining Inc. announced Tuesday that Ian Smith has resigned as a director of the company.

Gregory Hawkins, chairman of the Board and Interim CEO stated: “The company thanks Ian for his work as both CEO and a director of Yellowhead. Under Ian’s leadership, Yellowhead filed NI 43-101 compliant technical reports including a Preliminary Assessment in 2011 and a

Feasibility Study in 2012 that indicate that the Harper Creek Project is a viable and robust project recommended for devel-opment.”

“We wish Ian every success in his future endeavours,” said Hawkins.

Smith stepped down as Yellowhead CEO last October.

Yellowhead Mining’s pro-posed copper-gold-silver mine at Harper Creek would be located about 10 km southwest of Vavenby.

Smith leaves Yellowhead board Lessening the loadTrevor Pearce uses a roof rake on a long pole to remove snow from on top of his home on Riverview Crescent on Wednesday. He said he was confident the structure could carry the load but felt it would be easier to remove the snow now rather than later in the season.Photo by Keith McNeill

Keith McNeill

A demand from the Ministry of Education that School District 73 chop 1.5 per cent from its budget to pay for staff wage increases isn’t sitting well with North Thompson trustee John Harwood.

“We only have 10 per cent

of our budget that’s outside of wages,” he said. “It’s very diffi-cult to be told partway through the school year that we have to cut the budget.”

The school district has sent a letter to the Ministry asking that it reconsider its request. About 60 other school districts in the province are sending let-

ters as well.The 1.5 per cent cut would

amount to $300,000 this year. The Ministry has asked for another 1.5 per cent cut next year.

The school districts are being told to come up with plans on how they will make the cuts by Jan. 15.

SD73: Budget cuts to help pay for wage increases

School District 73 reviews school security protocol

Thank you B.C. for digging safely in 2012This year, more calls to BC One Call for natural gas pipeline information and safe digging practices resulted in fewer pipeline hits.

Make the right call

BC One Call: 1-800-474-6886

FortisBC uses the FortisBC Energy name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (12-336.1 12/2012)

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with MICHELLE

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PHARMASAVEMON. - SAT. 9 - 6

BROOKFIELD CENTRE

CLEARWATER, 250-674-3122

Dental plaque starts at the gum line. When you are brushing, aim the bristles at the gum line, moving the brush in a circular motion so that you sweep the plaque away from the gums. Move systematically from tooth to tooth so that each tooth and gum area gets attention. Spend at least two minutes on your teeth twice daily.

Fish oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids can lower triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. The dose is usually 4 grams per day. However, the use of fi sh oils to lower the risk of heart attacks doesn’t have the same proof. There are other sure ways of lowering heart attack risk: stop smoking, control blood pressure and cholesterol, and regular exercise.

Abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy is one of the best ways of preventing birth defects and developmental disorders of which fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most severe. The message is simple: if you are pregnant, don’t drink alcohol.

It has been proven that exercise lowers the risk of cancer. The message is getting through to many people, but those undergoing cancer treatment can also benefi t. It doesn’t have to be a high intensity workout, but even gentle exercise could help with a sense of well-being, often hard to feel during cancer therapy.

Going on a winter holiday this year? Remember to bring enough of your prescribed medication with you. It often isn’t easy to fi nd the right medications in foreign countries.

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 27, 2012 www.clearwatertimes.com A3

Ministry of Environment

KAMLOOPS - B.C. government funding of $120,000 over two years will bring new life to a building that serves as a vital link between the public, Wells Grey Provincial Park and local businesses, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced Thursday.

“I’m proud of the work done by BC Parks and the Clearwater community to develop a resource that connects local businesses with visitors eager to make the most of their stay in the area,” said Lake. “Our government understands this invest-ment will not only mean a better visitor experience but more jobs and investment in the community for B.C. families.”

Since opening in 1986, the information centre has become more than just a welcoming gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park. Over the years, Information Wells Gray has worked with BC Parks to transform this once modest visitor centre into a multi-functional hub that serves the busi-ness community, the travelling public and visitors to Wells Gray Provincial Park.

“The Wells Gray Park Information Centre is an incredible asset, not only to BC Parks but to the North Thompson Valley,” said Information Wells Gray director Tay Briggs. “This significant invest-ment by the government into the information cen-tre will help Information Wells Gray attract more visitors to the park, creating long-term benefits for our communities. The planned improvements will ensure that visitors get the chance to appreciate Wells Gray and our amazing provincial park sys-tem. We are very excited about this investment in the future of Wells Gray Park and our valley.”

The centre sits south on the northeast corner of Highway 5 and Clearwater Valley Road.

Over 150,000 visitors drop in every year to learn about the area’s great activities, local accom-modations and services and the region’s rich his-tory.

Planned improvements include: - Upgrades to the building interior such as a

new visitor-receiving desk, new paint and lighting, new carpeting and drapes.

- Replacement of the roof with low-mainte-nance, more durable metal.

- Replacement of the 30-year old heating and cooling system with a more efficient system that minimizes the carbon footprint and lowers operat-ing costs.

- New and improved visitor displays with updated information.

- Replacement of building siding with more durable material.

- General fixes and upgrades to smaller build-ing elements such as taps.

In addition, BC Parks has made improve-ments to the Clearwater River Road in Wells Gray Provincial Park. These improvements are scheduled to be completed in January, 2013. The 20-kilometre project will improve the road’s drain-age, reducing the amount of damage the road incurs during the annual freshet.

BC Parks and Information Wells Gray recently signed a 10-year management agreement ensuring the centre will remain a valuable resource for the community for the long-term.

www.clearwatertimes.comWells Gray Information Centre getting face lift

Wells Gray Information CentreTimes file photo

Program works to improve women’s safetyCCWS Advisory Committee

The provincial average says that 10 per cent of women are currently experi-encing violence or abuse in their homes. The percentage expected to experience vio-lence and abuse in their life-time is 25 per cent.

Clearwater’s population of approximately 2,300 might be expected to have yielded 115 women or girls experi-encing violence or abuse in their homes during the period of Jan. 1, 2011 and Sept. 1, 2012. However, only 16 cases of domestic violence were reported to Clearwater RCMP. Either Clearwater is an unusually safe and respectful place for women or the problem is massively under reported. Judging by personal testimony and local research currently being funded by Status of Women Canada, unfortunately, the last option is right: the prob-

lem is under reported. In response to recent

national high profile incidents of violence against women and girls, particularly in small rural communities, Status of Women Canada is funding Community Connections for Women’s Safety (CCWS) in the communities of the North Thompson Valley. Here in Clearwater there is a stakeholder’s committee cre-ating a community plan for reducing violence and abuse against women and girls. A research project into women’s experiences of violence and abuse in the local area has been undertaken. It will be soon be available as a public document. A panel of women who have experienced abuse has been meeting regularly and has presented recommen-dations to the stakeholder’s committee.

Already becoming clear is the need for education to help us all recognize what is unreasonable and abusive

behaviour. Women and girls benefit from knowing when to say no and seek help. Men and boys benefit from recog-nizing their own oppressive behaviours toward women and girls and growing to see that this is a problem which diminishes us all.

The community plan is shaping up to include a more unified, accessible, and trans-parent way of responding to women in distress. There will be educational initiatives and perhaps other initiatives not yet fully clear - this plan is a work in progress anticipated in early 2013. That will just be the beginning of the work ahead. CCWS and the stake-holders committee seek to foster a more respectful and safer environment for every-one in the Valley.

CCWS is administered by YCS. Program coordinator is Wendy Vogels who may be contacted at 250 674 3530 or e-mail [email protected]



The Kamloops-Thompson school district is reviewing its security protocols in the wake of last week’s

mass shooting at an elementary school in Connecticut.

Superintendent Terry Sullivan has told all schools to lock all but the main doors dur-ing the day.

“We’ve always had a

policy of having all visi-tors sign in at the main office,” he said, noting that was sometimes tough to enforce, espe-cially at some of the larger high schools.

“So, not all the doors are locked, but

the main doors are the only ones that will remain open during the day.”

On Friday, Dec. 14, 27 people were killed in Newtown, Conn. Of those, 20 were young students at Sandy Hook Elementary.

The order to lock up Kamloops-area schools came after Sullivan issued two statements to parents - one by phone, the other in the form of a letter sent home with students - about the shooting rampage.

The statements, delivered the day of the shooting, was intended to let parents know school staff members are meeting to help develop a strategy to avoid any potential emotional trauma in students.

To that end, Sullivan said, he encouraged parents to “protect chil-dren from disturbing media reports” about the shooting.

He said he received multiple phone calls from parents after the statements, thanking him for re-assuring them.

Sullivan said the security review will con-tinue.

Times Staff

Yellowhead Mining Inc. announced Tuesday that Ian Smith has resigned as a director of the company.

Gregory Hawkins, chairman of the Board and Interim CEO stated: “The company thanks Ian for his work as both CEO and a director of Yellowhead. Under Ian’s leadership, Yellowhead filed NI 43-101 compliant technical reports including a Preliminary Assessment in 2011 and a

Feasibility Study in 2012 that indicate that the Harper Creek Project is a viable and robust project recommended for devel-opment.”

“We wish Ian every success in his future endeavours,” said Hawkins.

Smith stepped down as Yellowhead CEO last October.

Yellowhead Mining’s pro-posed copper-gold-silver mine at Harper Creek would be located about 10 km southwest of Vavenby.

Smith leaves Yellowhead board Lessening the loadTrevor Pearce uses a roof rake on a long pole to remove snow from on top of his home on Riverview Crescent on Wednesday. He said he was confident the structure could carry the load but felt it would be easier to remove the snow now rather than later in the season.Photo by Keith McNeill

Keith McNeill

A demand from the Ministry of Education that School District 73 chop 1.5 per cent from its budget to pay for staff wage increases isn’t sitting well with North Thompson trustee John Harwood.

“We only have 10 per cent

of our budget that’s outside of wages,” he said. “It’s very diffi-cult to be told partway through the school year that we have to cut the budget.”

The school district has sent a letter to the Ministry asking that it reconsider its request. About 60 other school districts in the province are sending let-

ters as well.The 1.5 per cent cut would

amount to $300,000 this year. The Ministry has asked for another 1.5 per cent cut next year.

The school districts are being told to come up with plans on how they will make the cuts by Jan. 15.

SD73: Budget cuts to help pay for wage increases

School District 73 reviews school security protocol What’s Happening

Civic address: 132 Station RoadBox 157, Clearwater,B.C. V0E 1N0

Of� ce hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 - 4:30District Of� ce Ph: 250-674-2257 • Fax: 250-674-2173

email address: [email protected]

DISTRICT OF CLEARWATER www.districtofclearwater.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities: You are invited to participate in a conversation to help define an Action Plan to protect and expand forest sector jobs, enhance4 community stability and deliver expected goods and services. This will be a valuable opportunity to understand how continuing changes in forestry influence the quality of life in our communities, to help define solution and how we can work toward overcoming the obstacles. In order to respond to the needs of the communities, the Action Plan will focus on “what to do” and “how to do” in order to move forward on specific actions. The information gathered from the dialogue will help resource decision-makers understand the values and needs of the valley communities. The format will include Breakout Sessions to enable small groups to explore themes and provide perspectives and personal views on the emerging Forestry issues. Your input will be communicated to decision-makers who influence, develop and establish forest policy for the province. Your views will help create a vision for our local forests. Pre-register at [email protected] or 250.674.3498. There is no registration fee. Location: Wells Gray Inn Date: Saturday: January 19, 2013 Registration: 12:30-1:00pm Time: 1:00-4:00pm ICBC - Winter Safety

Winter has arrived! Make sure you are prepared for winter conditions by having good winter tires and emergency kit in your vehicle.

Posted speed limits are designed for ideal road conditions; slow down when driving on snow, ice, slush or rain.

Allow yourself at least three times the normal following distance to stop on wet or slick surfaces. Be cautious using four wheel drive. Often it does not enhance your braking or steering on slippery

roads.

Holiday Closures The District and ICBC/Motor Vehicle offices will be closed on December 24th - Christmas Eve, December 25th - Christmas Day and December 26th – Boxing Day as well as December 31st and January 1st, 2013. The offices will be open on Thursday December 27th and Friday December 28th. Both offices will be back to regular hours on January 2nd, 2012.

Happy Holidays!! Upcoming Events January 19, 2012, Public Meeting, Healthy Forests – Healthy Communities Session, Forestry in the Post Beetle Era in the North Thompson Valley. Wells Gray Inn, 1PM Upcoming Meetings of Council January 8th, 2013 – Parks and Recreation Meeting – 5:00pm January 8th, 2013 – Regular Council Meeting – 7:00pm

DISTRICT OF CLEARWATER www.districtofclearwater.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Roundabout Open House The District of Clearwater will be holding a public informational open house to discuss a proposal to construct a roundabout at the existing intersection of Highway 5 and Clearwater Valley Road and Park Drive. Representatives from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will be present to explain how a roundabout works, give statistics and answer questions. The Open House will be held between 2:00pm-4:00pm and between 6:00 to 8:00pm Wednesday March 7th, 2012 at the Clearwater Secondary School Pit. Your input will guide our decisions. 2012-2016 Financial Plan Public Input The District of Clearwater is preparing its Five Year Financial Plan for the period of 2012-2016 and would like public input. Members of the community are encouraged to contribute input at any meeting or by dropping information at the District office or email Sheila Thiessen, Director of Finance at [email protected]. There will a public presentation of the Draft Financial Plan on April 3rd, 2012. District Grant in Aid Policy The Council of the District of Clearwater recognizes the value to the community of local clubs, groups, nonprofit organizations and charities. Applications for grants-in-aid must be made in writing addressed to the Finance and Audit Committee by April 30th, each calendar year in which the grant is required. The application shall state the reason for the request and a brief outline of the consequences if the grant is not approved. All grant applications shall declare requests that have been made to other governments/agencies the amounts applied for and the amount expected to be received. Grant in Aid forms are available at the District office. ICBC/Motor Vehicle “Insuring your teens? Make sure you have the right coverage” Did you know, ICBC offers an Excess Special Equipment endorsement? It insures permanently attached non-manufacturer's equipment worth more than $5,000, or permanently attached sound and communication equipment worth more than $1,000 for most passenger and light commercial vehicles. Historical Photos The District of Clearwater is looking for old photos depicting the Municipal Hall and other landmarks of Clearwater. Bring your old photos in and we will scan and return immediately. The best ones will be put up on the website. Items to Note

Interior Crisis Line - 1-888-353-CARE (2273). Call2Recycle box recycling batteries and cell phones at the District office

Pitch-In Canada Week – ‘Clean Sweep’ April 23-30, 2012

Upcoming Events March 7th – Roundabout Open House March 9th – Raft Mountain Skating Club – Dr. Seuss & Friends performance May 12th - Household Hazardous Waste Round up May 13th - “Free” Dump Day at Clearwater Landfill Upcoming Meetings of Council March 6th, 2012 – Parks and Recreation meeting – 5:00pm March 6th, 2012 – Regular Council meeting – 7:00pm March 20th, 2012 – Economic Development meeting – 5:00pm March 20th, 2012 – Regular Council meeting – 7:00pm

The Royal Canadian Legion -Branch 259 Invites you to join us for a

New Years Eve Celebration Dance & Appetizers

Monday Dec. 31, 2012 • 8pm - 12:30am $10/person • All 19+ are welcome

257 Glen Road


Editor, The Times:Recently, Kamloops-

Thompson-Cariboo Conservative MP Cathy McLeod voted against Bill C-398, legislation that sought to amend the Patent Act to pro-vide drugs for interna-tional humanitarian purposes. In doing so, she helped to stop the legislation from being created.

Taking her lead not from AIDS activ-

ists, scientists and humanitarians, but directly from the prime minister, McLeod has prevented Canada’s generic drug manufac-turers from providing inexpensive life-saving medicines to Africans suffering from AIDS and other curable dis-eases who can’t afford brand-name medicines. International health experts say Canada’s failure to pass this bill

has condemned thou-sands, if not hundreds of thousands of people, to die needlessly.

Stephen Lewis, Canada’s well-known humanitarian and AIDS advocate, summed it up: “So, in the great choice in life, [the Harper govern-ment] have chosen pat-ent protection over the lives of children. And, that’s about as perfidi-ous as you can get as a government."

Canadians from all walks of life supported this bill. McLeod and Prime Minister Stephen Harper sided with Big Pharma.

Michael CrawfordKamloops

Editor’s note: Michael Crawford was the local federal NDP candidate in 2006, 2008 and 2011.

Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities dialog could lead to positive change

editorial by keith mcNeill

Opinion“ At the day of judgment we shall not be asked what we have read but what

we have done.” -Thomas A Kempis, mystic

BC Press CouncilThe Times is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the BC Press Council.Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to BC Press Council, 210 Selby St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2R2For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

U.S. � nancial critics should listen to Gore

We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Subscribe to the TimesIn Town / Out of Town Rates1 year $61.60; 2 years $117.60Prices include HST

74 young Road, Unit 14 Brookfi eld Mall, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N2Phone: 250-674-3343 Fax: 250-674-3410Email: [email protected]

Publisher: Al KirkwoodEditor: Keith McNeillOffi ce manager: Yevonne Cline

www.clearwatertimes.com

Established September 23, 1964Member, BC Press Council

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ETimes

School staffs say thanks

Don’t forget to take part in the Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities dialog session planned for Saturday afternoon, Jan. 19 at the Wells Gray Inn.

Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m., while the dialog session is expected to last from 1 to 4 p.m.

Purpose of the forum will be to explore the future of forestry in the North Thompson Valley in the post-beetle era.

Actually, to speak about a “post-beetle era” is almost certainly too optimistic. The mountain pine beetle epidemic is winding down but there is a host of other forest parasites waiting to feast on the remaining trees - things like spruce budworm and Douglas fir bark beetle. If climate change continues, and there is no reason to believe that it will not, then the mountain pine beetle epidemic is just a taste of things to come.

As the region warms, the forests will come under increasing stress. As stress levels rise, opportunities for insect pests and other para-sites to take advantage of the situation also will increase.

The old model of very large forest com-panies headquartered in large cities far from the trees they depend on has proven itself too inflexible to deal with even modest changes

to the environment. What are needed are smaller, more nimble economic entities that are locally-based.

Wells Gray Community Forest is a good example. Specialty sawmills such as Wadlegger Logging and the Colbornes’ birch mill in Upper Clearwater would be others. They all came through the recent downturn in the forest economy and now appear to be poised to do great things.

The community forest is quite different structurally and in its purpose from the small sawmilling companies. However, those differ-ences just add more diversity and therefore strength to the local economy.

Clearwater, and in fact the whole North Thompson Valley, is just a small, resource-based community. Speaking alone, our voices are unlikely to be heard.

The Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities program is a province-wide initiative. Other resource-based communities across B.C. are in situations similar to the one we find ourselves in. The people in them likely are thinking along lines similar to our own. If we work together, and are patient, there is a good possibility we will see real, positive change in how our forests are managed.

Editor, The Times:On behalf of the staffs from

Raft River Elementary School and Clearwater Secondary School we would like to express our profound thanks to the parents, community and to all the organizations and individuals for their support and comfort during the past two weeks from the lost of our dear friends and colleagues Skye and Courtney (and

baby) Buck.The support was touching and

gave us strength to work through the loss of two such amazing individuals.

We would also like to share our condolences especially to the families of Skye and Courtney and to the community and friends they both touched.

Mike Bowden, principalRaft River Elementary School

MP McLeod sides with Big Pharma

Editor, The Times:Recently I decided

to wade (and I mean ‘wade’) through Al Gore’s first major work, Earth in the Balance.

Though rich in detail this is not a riv-eting read. Gore the Bore is heavy on facts, not much for excite-ment.

Having said that, Senator Al Gore makes some interest-ing observations. He speculates on what would happen to New Orleans with rising ocean levels in the event of a super storm that broke down the levees.

Also Gore points out that New York city would be espe-cially vulnerable to

a tidal surge. The subways could be flooded. The good citizens of the Big Apple could be with-out power for days on end. There could be millions, indeed billions of dollars in damages.

Remember this was all written in 1993! Al Gore was obviously way ahead of his time.

Here one has to speculate what would have happened if Al Gore had taken his rightful place as 43rd president of the United States. How much better would the United States, indeed the world, have been with Gore as president?

Instead, a combi-

nation of chicanery and outright fraud gave the election to possibly the worst president (and that’s up against some pretty stiff competi-tion) in the history of the US of A!? George Dubya Bush Jr.

Eight years of chasing weapons of mass destruction phantoms and giv-ing huge tax breaks to the needy wealthy has put the U.S. on a ‘financial cliff’ (that cliff was there when Barak Obama began his first four years). It just got worse instead of better.

His critics have tried to discredit Al Gore – he lives in a mansion – yuk yuk! Now that George

Bush he’s a man of the people – yuk yuk, yuk.

Wading through Earth in the Balance is somewhat akin to tackling a novel by Thomas Mann – pon-derous and slow, but worth it in the end.

Unfortunately this present economic ‘on the cliff’ crisis can only be solved (according to those who discount every-thing that Al Gore has to say) by, to quote Gore again, further strip mining of the Garden of Eden.

Too bad they didn’t listen to Al Gore in the first place!!

Dennis PeacockClearwater, B.C.


? Do you think 2013 will be a good year

for the North Thompson

Valley?

Glen Dohms: I don't see a whole lot of change in 2013 ... not until the mine comes in.

Suzanne Foster:I don't know. It de-pends on the election results in May and who gets elected.

Mohammad Chaudhary:I hope so. I don't see anything proposed by government that will make this community healthier. It might hap-pen by election time.

Rob Sunderman:Hopefully. I have a positive outlook..

Linda King: Let's hope so. Every year is good in the North Thompson.

Questionof the Week

WINNIPEG, MB - How many levels of government does it take to fix a sewer pipe? In some cases, the answer is three.

While this may seem ludi-crous, the reality is that the federal and provincial govern-ments are heavily involved in many municipal spending deci-sions. Though the image of having your local federal MP, a provincial cabinet minister, and your mayor all smiling and cut-ting the ribbon to a new project together projects harmony, this type of overlap significantly reduces political accountability.

For example, who are you going to blame if the pipe springs a leak? Worse still, who are you going to blame if the sewer contract goes to a compa-ny facing fraud and conspiracy charges?

This isn’t a hypothetical. This scenario has occurred recently in Quebec. The federal Public Safety Minister of the day reportedly answered that oversight of municipal contracts is not a federal responsibility. In order to strengthen political accountability and government efficiency in Canada it is nec-essary to ensure that one, not three, levels of government, is responsible for providing and generating revenue in each spending area.

While the above anecdote may seem like an isolated inci-dent, it isn’t. Infrastructure proj-ects funded by all three levels of government take place through-out the country. Moreover,

provincial governments are systemically reliant upon federal funding in many areas.

The problem is that the fed-eral government generates too much revenue, which reduces the ability of provinces to garner sufficient revenue to fund ser-vices they need. There is a limit to how much revenue govern-ments can efficiently collect, so excessive federal intake crowd out provincial revenues.

While nearly two thirds of government expenditures are on healthcare, education, and social services, the federal govern-ment controls over 43 per cent of government spending, leav-ing the provinces only a shade over 40 per cent. Municipalities, which provide most of the ser-vices we rely on daily, control less than 16 per cent of govern-ment spending. This top heavy arrangement necessitates these transfers.

While transferring money from the federal government to lower levels seems like an elegant solution, it obfuscates decision making, and reduces efficiency. Consider healthcare, for instance. Premiers love to blame the federal government for the shortcomings of health-care, despite healthcare being a provincial responsibility. Since they can always blame the feder-al government for not transfer-ring enough money to provincial governments, premiers have less incentive to deliver services effi-ciently.

Disentangling spending areas

would also have a salutary effect on electoral politics, allowing voters to see more clearly who is responsible for what services and expenses. When one area such as healthcare dominates the political debate at two dif-ferent levels of government, it muddies the waters and allows other issues to fall by the way-side.

In order to create fiscal bal-ance in Canada, the federal gov-ernment should terminate direct spending in areas of provincial jurisdiction (with rare excep-tions), and cease fiscal transfers with two exceptions. First, fed-eral fuel tax revenue should be transferred to the municipalities on a per capita basis. Second, the GST revenue should be distributed to the provinces on a per capita basis. These two measures would provide stable funding from efficient taxes, while creating a degree of equal-ization.

Though decentralizing wouldn’t solve all of Canada’s problems, it would lead to more efficient government services and it would allow for greater policy experimentation to help determine bets practices. Most importantly, it would bring taxa-tion and expenditure decisions in key areas closer to voters and consumers. Transparency is a cornerstone of good governance. Create transparency, and good government is likely to follow.

Steve Lafleur is a policy ana-lyst with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy (www.fcpp.org)

Highway needs guard rails along North Thompson

Decentralize the federation to increase accountability Read us on facebook @ www.clearwatertimes

Editor, The Times: The intent of this letter is to open dis-

cussion with the Ministry of Highways to improve highway safety in this area. I recognize highway maintenance in this district can be more than difficult, and that it is not possible to be everywhere at all times. I do not wish to attach blame but to hopefully bring some good out of a

very bad situation.Along with the rest of the commu-

nity I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident along the Wolf’s corner sec-tion of Highway 5, south of Clearwater. Having lived in the Little Fort area for the last 11 years I have often questioned why there are not guard rails or barriers where Highway 5 runs beside the North Thompson River. There are at least two

such areas where barriers are necessary - just north of Little Fort, and along the section of Highway 5 where the recent accident took place.

It is possible to lose control of a vehicle for a number of reasons. If you go off the highway on the river side in either of these locations you can be in immediate seri-ous trouble. If you are fortunate someone might see you go in, otherwise you are just

“missing.” A guard rail or barrier may not be a guarantee but, along with more salt and sand, it would go a long way toward preventing an accident.

I have been assured that the Ministry of Highways will respond to this letter via the North Thompson Times.

Bob MumfordClearwater, B.C.


Editor, The Times:Recently, Kamloops-

Thompson-Cariboo Conservative MP Cathy McLeod voted against Bill C-398, legislation that sought to amend the Patent Act to pro-vide drugs for interna-tional humanitarian purposes. In doing so, she helped to stop the legislation from being created.

Taking her lead not from AIDS activ-

ists, scientists and humanitarians, but directly from the prime minister, McLeod has prevented Canada’s generic drug manufac-turers from providing inexpensive life-saving medicines to Africans suffering from AIDS and other curable dis-eases who can’t afford brand-name medicines. International health experts say Canada’s failure to pass this bill

has condemned thou-sands, if not hundreds of thousands of people, to die needlessly.

Stephen Lewis, Canada’s well-known humanitarian and AIDS advocate, summed it up: “So, in the great choice in life, [the Harper govern-ment] have chosen pat-ent protection over the lives of children. And, that’s about as perfidi-ous as you can get as a government."

Canadians from all walks of life supported this bill. McLeod and Prime Minister Stephen Harper sided with Big Pharma.

Michael CrawfordKamloops

Editor’s note: Michael Crawford was the local federal NDP candidate in 2006, 2008 and 2011.

Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities dialog could lead to positive change

editorial by keith mcNeill

Opinion“ At the day of judgment we shall not be asked what we have read but what

we have done.” -Thomas A Kempis, mystic

BC Press CouncilThe Times is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the BC Press Council.Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to BC Press Council, 210 Selby St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2R2For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

U.S. � nancial critics should listen to Gore

We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Subscribe to the TimesIn Town / Out of Town Rates1 year $61.60; 2 years $117.60Prices include HST

74 young Road, Unit 14 Brookfi eld Mall, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N2Phone: 250-674-3343 Fax: 250-674-3410Email: [email protected]

Publisher: Al KirkwoodEditor: Keith McNeillOffi ce manager: Yevonne Cline


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TH

E

NORTH THOMPSON


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ETimes

School staffs say thanks

Don’t forget to take part in the Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities dialog session planned for Saturday afternoon, Jan. 19 at the Wells Gray Inn.

Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m., while the dialog session is expected to last from 1 to 4 p.m.

Purpose of the forum will be to explore the future of forestry in the North Thompson Valley in the post-beetle era.

Actually, to speak about a “post-beetle era” is almost certainly too optimistic. The mountain pine beetle epidemic is winding down but there is a host of other forest parasites waiting to feast on the remaining trees - things like spruce budworm and Douglas fir bark beetle. If climate change continues, and there is no reason to believe that it will not, then the mountain pine beetle epidemic is just a taste of things to come.

As the region warms, the forests will come under increasing stress. As stress levels rise, opportunities for insect pests and other para-sites to take advantage of the situation also will increase.

The old model of very large forest com-panies headquartered in large cities far from the trees they depend on has proven itself too inflexible to deal with even modest changes

to the environment. What are needed are smaller, more nimble economic entities that are locally-based.

Wells Gray Community Forest is a good example. Specialty sawmills such as Wadlegger Logging and the Colbornes’ birch mill in Upper Clearwater would be others. They all came through the recent downturn in the forest economy and now appear to be poised to do great things.

The community forest is quite different structurally and in its purpose from the small sawmilling companies. However, those differ-ences just add more diversity and therefore strength to the local economy.

Clearwater, and in fact the whole North Thompson Valley, is just a small, resource-based community. Speaking alone, our voices are unlikely to be heard.

The Healthy Forests-Healthy Communities program is a province-wide initiative. Other resource-based communities across B.C. are in situations similar to the one we find ourselves in. The people in them likely are thinking along lines similar to our own. If we work together, and are patient, there is a good possibility we will see real, positive change in how our forests are managed.

Editor, The Times:On behalf of the staffs from

Raft River Elementary School and Clearwater Secondary School we would like to express our profound thanks to the parents, community and to all the organizations and individuals for their support and comfort during the past two weeks from the lost of our dear friends and colleagues Skye and Courtney (and

baby) Buck.The support was touching and

gave us strength to work through the loss of two such amazing individuals.

We would also like to share our condolences especially to the families of Skye and Courtney and to the community and friends they both touched.

Mike Bowden, principalRaft River Elementary School

MP McLeod sides with Big Pharma

Editor, The Times:Recently I decided

to wade (and I mean ‘wade’) through Al Gore’s first major work, Earth in the Balance.

Though rich in detail this is not a riv-eting read. Gore the Bore is heavy on facts, not much for excite-ment.

Having said that, Senator Al Gore makes some interest-ing observations. He speculates on what would happen to New Orleans with rising ocean levels in the event of a super storm that broke down the levees.

Also Gore points out that New York city would be espe-cially vulnerable to

a tidal surge. The subways could be flooded. The good citizens of the Big Apple could be with-out power for days on end. There could be millions, indeed billions of dollars in damages.

Remember this was all written in 1993! Al Gore was obviously way ahead of his time.

Here one has to speculate what would have happened if Al Gore had taken his rightful place as 43rd president of the United States. How much better would the United States, indeed the world, have been with Gore as president?

Instead, a combi-

nation of chicanery and outright fraud gave the election to possibly the worst president (and that’s up against some pretty stiff competi-tion) in the history of the US of A!? George Dubya Bush Jr.

Eight years of chasing weapons of mass destruction phantoms and giv-ing huge tax breaks to the needy wealthy has put the U.S. on a ‘financial cliff’ (that cliff was there when Barak Obama began his first four years). It just got worse instead of better.

His critics have tried to discredit Al Gore – he lives in a mansion – yuk yuk! Now that George

Bush he’s a man of the people – yuk yuk, yuk.

Wading through Earth in the Balance is somewhat akin to tackling a novel by Thomas Mann – pon-derous and slow, but worth it in the end.

Unfortunately this present economic ‘on the cliff’ crisis can only be solved (according to those who discount every-thing that Al Gore has to say) by, to quote Gore again, further strip mining of the Garden of Eden.

Too bad they didn’t listen to Al Gore in the first place!!

Dennis PeacockClearwater, B.C.

To All Our Valued CustomersHoliday Advertising Deadline Dates

for the

North Thompson Star/Journaland the

Clearwater Times are as follows:

Issue of Dec. 27, 2012Ad deadlines Dec. 20 - 12pm

Issue of Jan. 3, 2013Ad deadlines Dec. 27 - 12pm

Our regular office hours are: Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm

Our offices will be closedDec 25, 26 Jan. 1, 2013

Ad sponsor ed by:

A Holiday Heads Up


How The Kitten Found the Spirit of Christmas

The kitten said I want to go outside and the kitten did and ran away and found a pig and they kept on walking and they got really tired and the pig said, “You are my best friend!”

The kitten said, “Thanks!”

The next morning the sun rose up and it was a very good day. But one cold night it was not like yesterday and then a cold tear came into the kitten’s eye. Then warm air came to warm up the kitten, and the spirit of Christmas came, too. Finally the kitten and the pig under-stood that the spirit of Christmas was when others help you feel warm and happy.

Sage BarstowGrade 2

My Very Most Favourite Christmas

It was Christmas morning, the sun was shining, perfectly bright! I slipped and slided down the stairs. Time to wake up I shouted to my mom and dad. When I woke

them up my mom shouted out that she heard something in the basement. She thought it was Santa Claus putting presents under the Christmas tree! So we danced our way down the stairs to the basement to open are presents.

Wow! A puppy was behind the Christmas tree! It had a name tag that said “Dasher”! Can I have it mommy please! “Sure” said mom. Then we heard a noise. We looked out the window and saw...Santa Claus!

He jollied the words ho-ho and off he went to the North Pole till next Christmas. We opened more and more presents and the presents got better and better. Like hello isn’t Merry Christmas awesome when you get the newest Barbie

doll! I laughed. Merry Christmas laughed my mom and dad. Merry Christmas I jollied back. And it was a Merry ho-ho Christmas! After we opened the presents we ate dinner and went to bed.

The End...maybeCadence Busse

Age 9Grade 4

How The Kitten Found The Spirit of Christmas

One cold stormy night Joe, a tabby cat was looking through a window and saw people giving out presents. Joe though “oh no!” I think it is Christmas eve. I have not even got one single present. Suddenly he heard a noise he swivelled around like Homer Simpson when he heard the word food. He whispered “who’s there?” It was a squeeky voice that yelled “down here!!” Joe looked down he saw a little blue figure. Joe asked “who are you?” “I am the spirit of Christmas” she stated. “Christmas is not about getting it is about giving”. Then she disappeared. Joe yelled “just wait just wait!” There was no hope she was long gone. So Joe set off on a journey on that cold night to find that little figure he walked and walked until he found his first sign Coldwater 10 km. So he walked ten more km. He found Coldwater but was purple all over. He thought to himself this is not where a blue person would live. Joe walked until the next sign which read Clear River 5 km. Joe stum-

bled for 5 km until he was at the town but it was green all over. Joe thought to him-self this is not a place where a blue person would live. He walked away sadly dragging his paws. He saw a glimpse of a sign. He walked until he was close to the sign it said Clearwater 3 km. He wandered until he saw the little blue town he wondered this is where a blue person would live right? He ran into the little village. He knocked on the most immense houses door. The tiny little blue per-son greeted him with the most casual word “Hi” in her squeaky little voice. Joe asked “I would like to find out more about the spirit of Christmas”. She said “Ok, come in”. Joe stumbled when he entered by the sight of the expensive objects. The puny little blue person ordered “sit down please” he answered “I would be delighted to” know-ing that it must be a comfortable chair. She started off with

“Christmas is a time of giving not getting. It is about being with family and just having a good time”. “ohh” signed Joe “that is way better than just get-ting presents I think that I will do that next year” replied Joe. She screamed “what next year?!, you can do that all year long”. “ok” yelled Joe enthusiastic,

“that will be fun”. So the little tabby cat bounded into the dis-tance. The tiny blue person thought to himself “I could have told him my name”.

Dallas TuckerGrade 5

My Favourite ChristmasMy most favourite

Christmas was when a little chicken walked into my yard. I kept the chicken. Then it layed a golden egg. Then it jumped on my head and fell asleep. Ten minutes later it started to make a type of groaning sound. It was pretty funny. All of a sudden a grizzly bear broke down the door. He roared so loud for a minute I thought I went deaf. Then the chicken came awake and kara-te chopped the bear in the head. Now the chicken ninja kicked the bear in the head and then the bear ran away. So I went and had hot chocolate for the chicken and me. I put some marsh-mallows in for the chicken and I. Then we both fell asleep. When I woke up, the chicken had layed so many golden eggs they were up to my waist. Then I looked at the Christmas tree. There were so many presents I thought I was going to faint. Then I opened all of my presents. My most favourite present was a new puppy dog. The chicken and I went outside for the after-noon. It was the cold-est winter yet! Then I went and made some hot chocolate for the chicken and I. Then because it was lay-

ing eggs again, now I bought a mansion. The chicken has made me so amazingly rich I have become a bil-lionaire! The chicken was the best thing that ever happened to me! But then I realized I hadn’t named the chicken. So I named her Lucky. Because she is a golden colour and she lays golden eggs. Then Lucky and I made a snowman. Sadly we had to take down the Christmas tree ornaments and then take the Christmas tree down too, and then we got ready for the chickens birthday.

Billy BiagioniGrade 5

Raft River

How the Kitten Found the Spirit of Christmas

There once was a little kitten who had three sisters and four brothers. She lived a happy life. And she hated Christmas. Ohhh! She just hated Christmas! She went for a walk and her name is Kylie. When she went for a walk she got caught in a blizzard. Then she saw Santa and Santa told her to believe in the Christmas spirit so the kitten started to believe!

By Sophia BraatenGrade 2 Raft River

6 - 7

In our January 10th edition, the Clearwater TIMES will celebrate

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Barriere Star Journal

Christmas came early for the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association on Dec. 12, thanks to a partnership with Community Futures Thompson Country (CFTC), and the Farm Kids Scholarship Fund.

NTFFRA president Jill Hayward said the partnership came to be thanks to Farm Kids Fund founder Steven Puhallo, who initially approached CFTC in regards to a need for rodeo chutes and pens in the North Thompson Agriplex.

As a result of that discussion

with CFTC executive director Brian Sims, and further meetings with Hayward and CFTC board member Bill Kershaw, an arrange-ment that was beneficial to the three parties involved was agreed upon, and ratified by the CFTC Board.

"In a nutshell, the Agriplex has just received a full set of brand new Two-W rodeo chutes and pens," said Hayward, "We are really excited to be able to add this equipment to our building, and to be able to assist the Farm Kids group with their fundraising events, such as the New Year's Eve Bullarama, and other future rodeo venues. Most importantly, we have a very special thank you to extend to Community Futures Thompson Country, they have provided the funding in its entirety to acquire this equipment."

As the rodeo equip-ment arrived at the fairgrounds, Farm Kids reps, CFTC reps and NTFFRA Agriplex committee members and volunteers turned out to

see it unloaded.Farm Kids Fund founders

Steven Puhallo, and Ed and Deanna Lebourdais were all smiles, know-ing their upcoming Bullarama will be using the equipment for the first time.

"This makes year round indoor rough stock and rodeo events in Barriere a reality," said Puhallo, "Partnerships that benefit the region and promote the western lifestyle while helping rural youth are a big part of what the Farm Kids Fund is all about."

Ed Lebourdais (who co-owns S&E Bucking Bulls) said he was very

happy with the quality of the chutes and pens, "Two-W makes some of the best arena systems in North America. That's high quality steel and we can't wait to buck some bulls in it. Its going to be a great show!"

Sims said Community Futures are happy to be able to invest in positive economic development in the North Thompson Valley by lending support to the Agriplex. "We had the funding earmarked for economic development in the area," said Sims, "This is a good oppor-tunity to put that money to work, and to benefit the whole region in doing so."

6 - 7

Times Staff

The threatened mountain caribou is about to get even more threatened, according to Wells Gray World Heritage Committee (WGWHC).

A proposal by Canfor to salvage log beetle-killed lodgepole pine near Wells Gray would not only kibosh any spontaneous recovery for the park’s resident mountain caribou might have in store, it would also further stress a herd already in serious decline, the committee states.

That’s the message WGWHC recently sent in a letter to Terry Lake, B.C. Minister of Environment. Wells Gray World Heritage

Committee is a group dedicated to further-ing the candidacy of British Columbia’s fourth largest wilderness park for designa-tion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

WGWHC challenged Lake to step up to his obligation as B.C.’s minister responsible for mountain caribou recovery by establish-ing a moratorium on industrial logging in the Clearwater Valley.

“Until now we hadn’t understood just how rapidly Wells Gray’s southern caribou herd is declining,” said Trevor Goward, spokesperson for WGWHC. “The news is appalling. In 2002, the herd consisted of about 325 animals. Today, 10 years later, the population has declined by about one-third;

only 200 animals are left”.Earlier this year the group called

attention to the likelihood that the Wells Gray herd would soon undergo a degree of “spontaneous recovery, as 90,000 ha destroyed by fire in the early 20th century now begins to transition to old growth, a key requirement for mountain caribou.

According to WGWHC, industrial log-ging in the Clearwater Valley adjacent to the park would create winter forage favour-able to deer and moose. This in turn would support enhanced numbers of their main predators, wolves and cougar.

“Wolves and cougar have been on the rise in Upper Clearwater for several years

now,” said Steve Murray, spokesperson for the Upper Clearwater Action Committee. “It used to be a rare thing for valley resi-dents to lose livestock or pets to predators; but now it’s almost commonplace. Some of us have lately begun to feel concern for the safety of our children”.

In an earlier news release, WGWHC asked Canfor to honour the assertion of its CEO and president, Don Kayne, that, ‘... Canfor will not support actions that over-turn landscape objectives set through public planning processes unless there is full public consultation and support. We will not sup-port actions that impact parks or critical habitat for species at risk.’

Logging would endanger caribou, says committee

Full rodeo arena arrives for Agriplex at Barriere

Above: NTFFRA president Jill Hayward gives a thumbs-up sign as the new rodeo arena system pulls into the NT Agriplex Dec. 12. Steven Puhallo



The kitten said I want to go outside and the kitten did and ran away and found a pig and they kept on walking and they got really tired and the pig said, “You are my best friend!”

The kitten said, “Thanks!”

The next morning the sun rose up and it was a very good day. But one cold night it was not like yesterday and then a cold tear came into the kitten’s eye. Then warm air came to warm up the kitten, and the spirit of Christmas came, too. Finally the kitten and the pig under-stood that the spirit of Christmas was when others help you feel warm and happy.

Sage BarstowGrade 2


It was Christmas morning, the sun was shining, perfectly bright! I slipped and slided down the stairs. Time to wake up I shouted to my mom and dad. When I woke

them up my mom shouted out that she heard something in the basement. She thought it was Santa Claus putting presents under the Christmas tree! So we danced our way down the stairs to the basement to open are presents.

Wow! A puppy was behind the Christmas tree! It had a name tag that said “Dasher”! Can I have it mommy please! “Sure” said mom. Then we heard a noise. We looked out the window and saw...Santa Claus!

He jollied the words ho-ho and off he went to the North Pole till next Christmas. We opened more and more presents and the presents got better and better. Like hello isn’t Merry Christmas awesome when you get the newest Barbie

doll! I laughed. Merry Christmas laughed my mom and dad. Merry Christmas I jollied back. And it was a Merry ho-ho Christmas! After we opened the presents we ate dinner and went to bed.

The End...maybeCadence Busse

Age 9Grade 4


One cold stormy night Joe, a tabby cat was looking through a window and saw people giving out presents. Joe though “oh no!” I think it is Christmas eve. I have not even got one single present. Suddenly he heard a noise he swivelled around like Homer Simpson when he heard the word food. He whispered “who’s there?” It was a squeeky voice that yelled “down here!!” Joe looked down he saw a little blue figure. Joe asked “who are you?” “I am the spirit of Christmas” she stated. “Christmas is not about getting it is about giving”. Then she disappeared. Joe yelled “just wait just wait!” There was no hope she was long gone. So Joe set off on a journey on that cold night to find that little figure he walked and walked until he found his first sign Coldwater 10 km. So he walked ten more km. He found Coldwater but was purple all over. He thought to himself this is not where a blue person would live. Joe walked until the next sign which read Clear River 5 km. Joe stum-

bled for 5 km until he was at the town but it was green all over. Joe thought to him-self this is not a place where a blue person would live. He walked away sadly dragging his paws. He saw a glimpse of a sign. He walked until he was close to the sign it said Clearwater 3 km. He wandered until he saw the little blue town he wondered this is where a blue person would live right? He ran into the little village. He knocked on the most immense houses door. The tiny little blue per-son greeted him with the most casual word “Hi” in her squeaky little voice. Joe asked “I would like to find out more about the spirit of Christmas”. She said “Ok, come in”. Joe stumbled when he entered by the sight of the expensive objects. The puny little blue person ordered “sit down please” he answered “I would be delighted to” know-ing that it must be a comfortable chair. She started off with

“Christmas is a time of giving not getting. It is about being with family and just having a good time”. “ohh” signed Joe “that is way better than just get-ting presents I think that I will do that next year” replied Joe. She screamed “what next year?!, you can do that all year long”. “ok” yelled Joe enthusiastic,

“that will be fun”. So the little tabby cat bounded into the dis-tance. The tiny blue person thought to himself “I could have told him my name”.

Dallas TuckerGrade 5

My Favourite ChristmasMy most favourite

Christmas was when a little chicken walked into my yard. I kept the chicken. Then it layed a golden egg. Then it jumped on my head and fell asleep. Ten minutes later it started to make a type of groaning sound. It was pretty funny. All of a sudden a grizzly bear broke down the door. He roared so loud for a minute I thought I went deaf. Then the chicken came awake and kara-te chopped the bear in the head. Now the chicken ninja kicked the bear in the head and then the bear ran away. So I went and had hot chocolate for the chicken and me. I put some marsh-mallows in for the chicken and I. Then we both fell asleep. When I woke up, the chicken had layed so many golden eggs they were up to my waist. Then I looked at the Christmas tree. There were so many presents I thought I was going to faint. Then I opened all of my presents. My most favourite present was a new puppy dog. The chicken and I went outside for the after-noon. It was the cold-est winter yet! Then I went and made some hot chocolate for the chicken and I. Then because it was lay-

ing eggs again, now I bought a mansion. The chicken has made me so amazingly rich I have become a bil-lionaire! The chicken was the best thing that ever happened to me! But then I realized I hadn’t named the chicken. So I named her Lucky. Because she is a golden colour and she lays golden eggs. Then Lucky and I made a snowman. Sadly we had to take down the Christmas tree ornaments and then take the Christmas tree down too, and then we got ready for the chickens birthday.

Billy BiagioniGrade 5

Raft River


There once was a little kitten who had three sisters and four brothers. She lived a happy life. And she hated Christmas. Ohhh! She just hated Christmas! She went for a walk and her name is Kylie. When she went for a walk she got caught in a blizzard. Then she saw Santa and Santa told her to believe in the Christmas spirit so the kitten started to believe!

By Sophia BraatenGrade 2 Raft River

6 - 7

New Year’s Eve Bullarama

NEW YEAR’s EVE 2012 A WESTERN FUNDRAISER FOR THE

FARM KIDS SCHOLARSHIP FUND7PM to 2AM, doors open at 6:30PM

North Thompson Agriplex, Barriere, B.C.

Tickets available online at www.farmkidsfund.ca North Thompson Star/Journal (Barriere)

Horse Barn (Kamloops).Bullarama and New Year’s Party (19+): $50.00

Bullarama only: $30.00 • 12 and under (bullarama only): $15.00Food vendors will be available on site

Tickets drop in price thanks to a new sponsor. Tickets pre-purchased at original price will have diff erence

refunded at the door.

Sanctioned by Elite Professional

Bullriders Inc.

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CONTACT US TO DISCUSS• Your goals and dreams

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Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour

VICTORIA - Communities through-out British Columbia will receive increased support to maxi-mize their economic potential through new

partnerships and an innovative suite of tools and resources, announced Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Pat Bell on Thursday.

“We are committed to helping communities throughout the prov-ince foster economic

growth and reach their full potential,” said Bell. “The Enhanced Community Economic Support Initiative will expand on what government is already doing by providing additional resources both online and in per-son so regions can capi-talize on their assets, and we can create jobs

for B.C. families.” Canada Starts Here:

The BC Jobs Plan includes a commitment to work with commu-nities and build their capacity so that all regions of the province can take advantage of investment oppor-tunities. Under the Enhanced Community Economic Support Initiative (ECESI), government will bring communities together to promote five region-al collaborations, pro-vide economic devel-opment training and up-to-date information about what works and what doesn’t, and sup-port local governments as they advance their investment strategies.

The ECESI will include:

Regional Economic Collaboratives: Working with communities and regional partners, prior-ity economic initiatives with a regional impact will be identified in five regional sessions. This builds on the three regional sessions held this past year. Strategies will be developed to grow and advance these areas of focus with implementation occurring in the first 18 months.

- Economic Essentials for Local Government Leaders: The government will deliver leadership train-ing workshops in the eight development

regions throughout the province. The workshops will inform and empow-er local governments to identify and advance their own unique eco-nomic assets and strate-gies with a particular focus and emphasis on investment readiness.

- Online Economic Development Resources: An online suite of resources and tools will be developed to aid communities in identify-ing economic opportuni-ties, attracting and host-ing potential investors, and securing investment opportunities. The tool-kit will add knowledge and support to com-munities throughout the province.

Support for LNG-

Affected Communities: Customized local support will be pro-vided to expand the economic development resources of commu-nities presented with liquefied natural gas (LNG) opportunities. Government will part-ner with associations and trusts to align resources and build capacity to support these communities.

OpportunitiesBC Content Expansion: Doubling the invest-ment content on the OpportunitiesBC web-site will better represent the numerous opportu-nities available in our communities.

Union of British Columbia Municipalities president Mary Sjostrom said, “A growing number of B.C. local governments are dedicating staff and other resources toward economic development in their communities. These new resources will be welcomed by communities as they develop initiatives that capitalize on local and regional assets.”

For additional infor-mation on this initia-tive, please visit the ministry’s website at: www.gov.bc.ca/jtst/

8 - 9


Denise Harper expects the next 12 months to be busy.

After being re-elected chairwoman at the Dec. 3 regular meeting of the Kamloops-Thompson school district’s board of education, the trustee from Chase wasted no time looking ahead.

“It will be a busy year,” Harper told KTW. “I think there is going to be a lot going on.”

With funding secured and approval for

the NorKam trades project in the board’s rearview mirror, Harper said the district has now set its sights on an even bigger target - South Kamloops secondary.

“That’s going to be our next big push,” she said, describing the need for a revamp at South Kam as “increasingly critical.

“I know the government finally came up with dollars for NorKam and they may think us ungrateful, but it’s just that our needs are many.”

If the district had its way, Harper said, South Kam would be torn down and com-pletely rebuilt.

“In a perfect world, where money is no object, that would be the case,” she said.

“But, unfortunately, I don’t think that will happen.”

District officials have applied for $12.4-million in provincial funding for a smaller-scale fix - replacing South Kam’s antiquated gymnasium and change rooms, as well as adding a number of new class-rooms.

“It’s customary we send a wish list in,” Harper said.

“But, the last few years they’ve come back no.

The NorKam trades and technol-ogy centre is slated for completion in September 2014.

Harper said the board recently chose an architectural firm - which will be announced in the coming days - to com-plete the project.

Renderings are expected in the spring.Harper said she is also looking forward

to a pair of public consultations in the New Year - one dealing with potential charges for bus service; the other in regard to potential school-year calendar changes.

“It will be busy,” she said.


VICTORIA - Visitors from around the world and through-out the province can soon plan their trips to two awe-inspiring BC Parks destinations. The Berg Lake Trail and Bowron Lake canoe circuit will be open for advanced reservations beginning Jan. 2, announced Minister of Environment Terry Lake recently.

Last year, the Bowron Lake Park canoe circuit had close to 100 bookings on the first day.

This year, BC Parks is doubling the early reservation options for visitors by adding the Berg Lake Trail.

“Our family has always enjoyed spending time in BC Parks, and these early reservations will mean visitors from around the world and throughout the province can plan their vacations to include two of our most spec-tacular destinations,” said Lake. “Whether bonding on a canoe trip or on a spectacular hike, these trips offer two great ways for families to enjoy B.C.’s unpar-

alleled natural environment.” The two treks are favourites for

international travellers. In 2012, the Bowron Lake canoe circuit had 1,003 bookings and the Berg Lake Trail had 1,932 bookings with 22 per cent and 25 per cent of reservations, respectively, com-ing from outside Canada.

Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park is a world-renowned hiking track that covers over 23 kilometres and climbs over 800 metres. This remote, back-country trail is a favourite destination for visitors

from throughout the province and around the world. Mount Robson, the second oldest provincial park, will celebrate 100 years in 2013.

Bowron Lake Park’s unparal-leled canoe circuit encompasses 10 lakes and includes numerous waterways and portages. The entire trip takes from six to 10 days to complete.

In 2010, 75 per cent of German visitors, 71 per cent of UK visitors, 56 per cent of Indian visitors, 34 per cent of American visitors and 35 per cent of Chinese visitors who visited B.C.

stayed overnight at a national or provincial park.

Discover Camping provides information on more than 108 reservable campgrounds, including group sites, in 94 pro-vincial parks throughout B.C. Reservations for most reservable campgrounds begin March 15.

Other BC Parks campgrounds are available on a first-come first-serve basis only.

Share your favourite camp-ing spot on BC Park’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Re-elected school board chair sees busy year ahead

Spring comes early for two popular BC Parks’ adventures

Economic development support strengthened for smaller communitiesWells Gray

Inn

Your fi rst choice foraccommodation!

Overlooking picturesque Dutch Lake, we are centrally located, close to all shopping and recreational facilities. Start your exploration of the splendour of the Wells Gray Provincial Park from here. Experience whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, golfi ng, fi shing, shopping and sightseeing. Return to enjoy our courtyard hot tub, a nice dinner in our dining lounge and then fi nish the evening off with a fun-fi lled night in our pub! Let our friendly and hospitable staff make your vacation a relaxing and enjoyable experience!

Reservations:1-800-567-4088

Phone: (250) 674-2214 • Fax (250) 674-3019Yellowhead Highway #5 & Clearwater

Village Road,Box 280, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0

Email: [email protected] • www.wellsgrainn.ca

WE FEATURE:• Cafe/Restaurant • Self

Contained Dining Area •

Banquet & Meeting Rooms •

Bar & Grill • Outdoor Hot Tub •

Gifts & Souvenirs • Cold Beer,

Wine & Liquor Store • Special

Menus & Services for Bus

Tours & Groups

Wells Gray

Inn

Your fi rst choice foraccommodation!

Overlooking picturesque Dutch Lake, we are centrally located, close to all shopping and recreational facilities. Start your exploration of the splendour of the Wells Gray Provincial Park from here. Experience whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, golfi ng, fi shing, shopping and sightseeing. Return to enjoy our courtyard hot tub, a nice dinner in our dining lounge and then fi nish the evening off with a fun-fi lled night in our pub! Let our friendly and hospitable staff make your vacation a relaxing and enjoyable experience!

Reservations:1-800-567-4088

Phone: (250) 674-2214 • Fax (250) 674-3019Yellowhead Highway #5 & Clearwater

Village Road,Box 280, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0

Email: [email protected] • www.wellsgrainn.ca

WE FEATURE:• Cafe/Restaurant • Self

Contained Dining Area •

Banquet & Meeting Rooms •

Bar & Grill • Outdoor Hot Tub •

Gifts & Souvenirs • Cold Beer,

Wine & Liquor Store • Special

Menus & Services for Bus

Tours & Groups

Happy Holidays~ Bonnie, Jeff & Family & Staff

LEARN TO SKATE WITH OUR ENERGETIC, FUN, PROFESSIONAL COACH

Raft Mountain Skating Club is holding registration at theNorth Thompson Sportsplex onDecember 21 from 3 - 5pmJanuary 3 from 3:30 - 7pm

Lessons begin January 3, 2013

If you prefer to register online, you can do that as well at

[email protected] is available upon request for those eligible.For more information visit

www.raftmountain.comWe’ve seen great achievements from our skaters so far this year and everyone has had a lot of fun.


Times Staff

“I would like to say that my first year in office has been great, reports Willow MacDonald, Thompson-Nicola Regional District director for Thompson Headwaters. “I really enjoy repre-senting Area B and the residents who live there. I am looking forward to my next year in office and I hope that it is productive.”

A wide variety of work has been done with the Thompson Headwaters services committee during the past year, she said.

An application has been sent in for a Community Infrastructure Grant to upgrade the children’s park at Eleanor Lake in Blue River. That applica-tion is for about $200,000 at 50 cent dollars (meaning the TNRD must come up with matching funds).

Water conservation improve-ments to the Eleanor Lake beachouse bathrooms are being done.

Waterworks upgrades to the Blue River water system will occur in 2013. The paperwork

was approved by the B.C. and TNRD governments this fall and the work will start in the spring.

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is putting in a two km passing lane in Blue River going north.

The design work for the Blue River Cemetery archway should be conducted this year.

The services committee is working on getting the Blue River trails project organized, maps corrected and the work started.

A major Avola Schoolhouse repair project is slated to start. The building needs dry rot cor-rected and chinking upgrades.

Avola park planning is slated, but is dependant on an infra-structure grant outcome

The services committee is working with the Blue River Powder Packers to aid in trail right of way agreements for winter use in the Finn Creek Managed Area. MacDonald gave kudos to the Powder Packers for all the hard work they have done to promote and manage appro-priate sled use in Area B.

The committee is also working

extensively with MOTI for prop-er highway signage to be installed for the Little Hell”s Gate turnoff, and interpretive signage at the Little Hell’s Gate itself.

Another collaborative project is working with MOE to install interpretive signage for the Goose Creek salmon watershed.

“I am continuing to work with Interior Health and Northern Health to increase access to med-ical services for residents in Area B on the Health Connections Bus,” MacDonald said.

The Thompson Headwaters director is holding discussions

with Yellowhead Community Services to maintain Area B rid-ership on the Valley Connector.

“This new once-a-month service has had a great rider-ship since its implementation in November 2012,” she said. “I am very pleased with the efforts of YCS to reduce winter isolation problems in Area B.”

A large amount of work has been done by the Thompson Headwaters services committee to rewrite and update the Blue River website: www.blueriverbc.ca

“My very hard working Thompson Headwaters Services Committee also attends as volun-teers to represent Area B interests at trade shows, conferences and tourism organi-zation events to keep Area B on the radar of gov-ernments, tourists and businesses,” MacDonald said.

“I would also like to thank my committee for working tirelessly on our behalf

so that the residents are served democratically. They also per-form many many volunteer tasks so that our residents can benefit from the great things to offer in Blue River.”

The TNRD director paid trib-ute to services coordinator Sherri Madden.

“I appreciate all her help and support in the past year and look forward to working with her in behalf of all who I represent in Area B,” she said.

The TNRD director said that if anyone wants to contact her, her email is [email protected].

8 - 9

Willow MacDonald

Area B director gives report for first year on board

Kevin Diakiw, Black Press

The federal government is poised to eliminate licensed medical marijuana grow-ops in homes that have long been criticized over safety concerns and connections to the illegal drug trade.

Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq announced Dec. 16, a planned shift to a new system of federally regulated commercial producers of medical pot who will supply authorized users who have a prescription from their doc-tor.

“Under our new rule, only facilities that meet strict security requirements will be able to produce marijuana for medical purposes,” Aglukkaq told a press conference in Maple Ridge.

The new system - which also ends government pro-duction of medical pot - is expected to come at a sharply higher price for the nearly 26,000 users authorized to possess medical marijuana.

Local authorities have argued most medical pot home growers are producing far more plants than they require, suggesting rampant abuse of the program by licensees selling into the illicit market.

“The high value of mari-juana on the illicit market increases the risk of home invasions,” Aglukkaq noted. “These production operations can also present fire and toxic

mould hazards.”The Fire Chiefs

Association of B.C. (FCABC) said the change will improve safety in residential neighbourhoods.

“The fire service across Canada has been raising the alarm about the fire and safety risks associated with growing marijuana indoors for many years,” said FCABC president Len Garis, who is also Surrey’s fire chief. “We

applaud the government for taking action on this issue.”

Garis stressed that the fire service has never been con-cerned about the use of mari-juana for medical purposes.

“Our focus is on how medical marijuana is grown,” he said. “The fact is, medical marijuana has typically been grown in a residential setting, which is not suitable or safe for growing marijuana.”

Under the previous regu-lations, medical marijuana grow operations operated without their local municipal government’s knowledge or approval, and were not sub-ject to health, fire, building or plumbing inspections.

Research indicates that both criminal and medical residential marijuana grow operations result in similar health, fire and safety hazards associated with unsafe electri-cal work, structural changes and excessive moisture.

Taking marijuana produc-tion out of homes and into a licensed commercial environ-ment is a step in the right direction, Garis said.

“We are happy to see Health Canada commit to inspecting and auditing medi-cal marijuana producers to make sure they comply with all regulatory requirements,” he said.

“We would like to see them take a further step and ensure that all previous residential growing sites are remediated, and that future buyers are made aware that these homes were previously used to grow marijuana.”

The federal Ministry of Health said it intends to implement the system by March 31, 2014, at which point all current licences to possess or produce pot would expire.

The government is holding a 75-day comment period for the public to give feedback on the proposal (at http://bit.ly/U4xtqi), which will end on Feb. 28, 2013.

The details of the new regulations are available on the ministry’s website (http://bit.ly/SFDUlX).

- with files from Jeff Nagel and CTV News

Prescription marijuana to be produced commercially


Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour

VICTORIA - Communities through-out British Columbia will receive increased support to maxi-mize their economic potential through new

partnerships and an innovative suite of tools and resources, announced Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Pat Bell on Thursday.

“We are committed to helping communities throughout the prov-ince foster economic

growth and reach their full potential,” said Bell. “The Enhanced Community Economic Support Initiative will expand on what government is already doing by providing additional resources both online and in per-son so regions can capi-talize on their assets, and we can create jobs

for B.C. families.” Canada Starts Here:

The BC Jobs Plan includes a commitment to work with commu-nities and build their capacity so that all regions of the province can take advantage of investment oppor-tunities. Under the Enhanced Community Economic Support Initiative (ECESI), government will bring communities together to promote five region-al collaborations, pro-vide economic devel-opment training and up-to-date information about what works and what doesn’t, and sup-port local governments as they advance their investment strategies.

The ECESI will include:

Regional Economic Collaboratives: Working with communities and regional partners, prior-ity economic initiatives with a regional impact will be identified in five regional sessions. This builds on the three regional sessions held this past year. Strategies will be developed to grow and advance these areas of focus with implementation occurring in the first 18 months.

- Economic Essentials for Local Government Leaders: The government will deliver leadership train-ing workshops in the eight development

regions throughout the province. The workshops will inform and empow-er local governments to identify and advance their own unique eco-nomic assets and strate-gies with a particular focus and emphasis on investment readiness.

- Online Economic Development Resources: An online suite of resources and tools will be developed to aid communities in identify-ing economic opportuni-ties, attracting and host-ing potential investors, and securing investment opportunities. The tool-kit will add knowledge and support to com-munities throughout the province.

Support for LNG-

Affected Communities: Customized local support will be pro-vided to expand the economic development resources of commu-nities presented with liquefied natural gas (LNG) opportunities. Government will part-ner with associations and trusts to align resources and build capacity to support these communities.

OpportunitiesBC Content Expansion: Doubling the invest-ment content on the OpportunitiesBC web-site will better represent the numerous opportu-nities available in our communities.

Union of British Columbia Municipalities president Mary Sjostrom said, “A growing number of B.C. local governments are dedicating staff and other resources toward economic development in their communities. These new resources will be welcomed by communities as they develop initiatives that capitalize on local and regional assets.”

For additional infor-mation on this initia-tive, please visit the ministry’s website at: www.gov.bc.ca/jtst/

8 - 9


Denise Harper expects the next 12 months to be busy.

After being re-elected chairwoman at the Dec. 3 regular meeting of the Kamloops-Thompson school district’s board of education, the trustee from Chase wasted no time looking ahead.

“It will be a busy year,” Harper told KTW. “I think there is going to be a lot going on.”

With funding secured and approval for

the NorKam trades project in the board’s rearview mirror, Harper said the district has now set its sights on an even bigger target - South Kamloops secondary.

“That’s going to be our next big push,” she said, describing the need for a revamp at South Kam as “increasingly critical.

“I know the government finally came up with dollars for NorKam and they may think us ungrateful, but it’s just that our needs are many.”

If the district had its way, Harper said, South Kam would be torn down and com-pletely rebuilt.

“In a perfect world, where money is no object, that would be the case,” she said.

“But, unfortunately, I don’t think that will happen.”

District officials have applied for $12.4-million in provincial funding for a smaller-scale fix - replacing South Kam’s antiquated gymnasium and change rooms, as well as adding a number of new class-rooms.

“It’s customary we send a wish list in,” Harper said.

“But, the last few years they’ve come back no.

The NorKam trades and technol-ogy centre is slated for completion in September 2014.

Harper said the board recently chose an architectural firm - which will be announced in the coming days - to com-plete the project.

Renderings are expected in the spring.Harper said she is also looking forward

to a pair of public consultations in the New Year - one dealing with potential charges for bus service; the other in regard to potential school-year calendar changes.

“It will be busy,” she said.


VICTORIA - Visitors from around the world and through-out the province can soon plan their trips to two awe-inspiring BC Parks destinations. The Berg Lake Trail and Bowron Lake canoe circuit will be open for advanced reservations beginning Jan. 2, announced Minister of Environment Terry Lake recently.

Last year, the Bowron Lake Park canoe circuit had close to 100 bookings on the first day.

This year, BC Parks is doubling the early reservation options for visitors by adding the Berg Lake Trail.

“Our family has always enjoyed spending time in BC Parks, and these early reservations will mean visitors from around the world and throughout the province can plan their vacations to include two of our most spec-tacular destinations,” said Lake. “Whether bonding on a canoe trip or on a spectacular hike, these trips offer two great ways for families to enjoy B.C.’s unpar-

alleled natural environment.” The two treks are favourites for

international travellers. In 2012, the Bowron Lake canoe circuit had 1,003 bookings and the Berg Lake Trail had 1,932 bookings with 22 per cent and 25 per cent of reservations, respectively, com-ing from outside Canada.

Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park is a world-renowned hiking track that covers over 23 kilometres and climbs over 800 metres. This remote, back-country trail is a favourite destination for visitors

from throughout the province and around the world. Mount Robson, the second oldest provincial park, will celebrate 100 years in 2013.

Bowron Lake Park’s unparal-leled canoe circuit encompasses 10 lakes and includes numerous waterways and portages. The entire trip takes from six to 10 days to complete.

In 2010, 75 per cent of German visitors, 71 per cent of UK visitors, 56 per cent of Indian visitors, 34 per cent of American visitors and 35 per cent of Chinese visitors who visited B.C.

stayed overnight at a national or provincial park.

Discover Camping provides information on more than 108 reservable campgrounds, including group sites, in 94 pro-vincial parks throughout B.C. Reservations for most reservable campgrounds begin March 15.

Other BC Parks campgrounds are available on a first-come first-serve basis only.

Share your favourite camp-ing spot on BC Park’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Re-elected school board chair sees busy year ahead

Spring comes early for two popular BC Parks’ adventures

Economic development support strengthened for smaller communities

WELLS GRAY HOME HARDWARE(across from the Post Office)

86 Station Rd., Clearwater • Open 8:30 - 5:00, Mon. - Sat.250-674-3717

Pay & Talk Telus Cards • $10 • $25 Available Here

HOME HARDWARE IS A CANADIAN OWNED COMPANY save

Holiday Hours Between Christmas & New Years our

hours will be 9am-5pm. We will go back to regular hours,

8:30am-5:30pm, as of January 3.

Wishing everyone a Safe and Happy New Year!

HBrian Hadwin250-574-9333

[email protected]

HADWIN’SHVAC & GAS



Late one Christmas Eve a little kitten named Whiskers was still awake. “Weeeeeee!” exclaimed Whiskers as he swung from branch to branch on the Christmas tree knocking a few Christmas tree balls off the tree as he did. Whiskers was a naughty kitten and he didn’t believe in Santa Clause. When he final-ly hopped down from the tree some time later, Whiskers slipped and missed his foot-

ing, causing him to slide into some stray wrapping paper! The more he struggled to get out of the paper, the more the wrap-ping paper wrapped around him! “Well” thought Whiskers as he lay upside down. “I think I know why people call this wrap-ping paper. If people didn’t know better they would think I was a Christmas present!” Just then Whiskers felt himself being lifted into the air as if he were flying! “My greatest dream

is coming true!!!” as he flipped through the air and landed in a large sack. Whiskers became afraid and a little queasy as the sack shot up the chim-ney and into a sleigh. Then, the sleigh got all bumpy and jolty as the sleigh flew into the air and did a loop the loop. Some time later Whiskers had pushed his way out of the wrapping paper and saw that he was in his own house again. And for a little extra surprise, he was nose to nose with Santa Clause!

Whiskers blinked once, twice, three times and squealed at the top of his little lungs...”MONSTER!!” Suddenly, Whiskers was in his own bed next to his own moth-er who was snoring away. Then he could hear the thunder of feet as kids dashed to the Christmas tree to find piles and piles of presents. Even Whiskers got one! He tore off the paper and found an entire box of cat toys! Whiskers was overjoyed! His first Christmas pres-ent! “Woowhooo!!” mewed Whiskers excit-edly. He didn’t notice he was being watched though. He was being watched by the spirit of Christmas himself! “Well” thought the spirit. “Looks like Whiskers has learned his lesson”. The spirit chuckled as he flew into the horizon and out of sight.

The EndBy Hannah Foisy

Grade 5Raft River Elementary

My Favorite ChristmasOn my favorite

Christmas I got up in the morning and threw off the blankets. It’s

Christmas! I got every-thing I wanted, yay! Halo 4. Welcome to Halo 4! What fun to play. That night Santa asked me to help him. After that night I became an elf. When I died I became the Spirit of Christmas.

By Jacob

A Video Game for Christmas

One time I got a vide game for Christmas. I was on the last level. I needed to defeat a four header dragon. He had a crown on his lead head because when you defeat the dragon you get the crown. It was the only best Christmas ever!

Sebastian EvansGrade 3


There was a kitten lost in the North Pole and Santa Claus res-cued the kitten.

“Who are you?” said the kitten. “I am Santa Claus, of course.” “Who is Santa Claus?” A person who gives you presents every Christmas. “Oh, I thought my mother bought my presents.” “You got it all wrong,” Santa Claus. And that’s how the Kitten Found the Spirit Of Christmas.

Nathan ToscanoGrade 2


One day a kit-ten never knew what Christmas was. Then one day a little girl found him. She said, “I wonder if he knows what Christmas is?” So she took him home. She gave him some food and water. She asked her mother if she can keep the kit-ten.

“Ok,” said her mom. “But you must walk him every day and feed him.”

“Ok,” said the girl.It was almost

Christmas. They had put the Christmas tree

up and put up the ornaments. In the mid-dle of the night, Santa came. The kitten saw him. Santa said, “Ho, my, you do’t know what Christmas is? I will show you what Christmas is. Come with me, little guy, you will see!” So he took the kitten with him. He showed the kitten what Christmas was about.

The kitten was amazed what Christmas was but then the Grinch came. And the Grinch said to Santa, “I hate Christmas because of you, Santa,” Then he kidnapped Santa! The kitten was sad that nobody would get presents.

So the kitten was going to save Santa. The kitten was on his way to save Santa. He was almost there but a heti came. The kit-ten was scared but the yeti was a nice yeti. He wanted to help the kitten. So he said, “I don’t want to eat you — I want to help you.”

So the kitten and the yeti went to save Santa. But the kitten was going to die. The yeti tried to keep him warm.

The yeti saw a town where the Grinch lived. So the yeti went to stop the Grinch. The yeti found the Grinch’s hide out. The yeti went inside. He put the kitten down.

He went to stop the Grinch. The Grinch was making Santa build a sleigh. But the yeti said, “Stop it!”

“No,” said Grinch. When Santa builds me a sleigh I will take every one’s Christmas dinner. The yeti found a cage and the yeti put the cage on the Grinch and quickly untied Santa. The kit-ten came in. The yeti was happy the kitten didn’t die.

Aloyce KirangoGrade 3

My Favorite ChristmasOnce upon a

time a year ago on a Christmas night I stayed up all night watching TV and eat-ing popcorn. Then I saw foot prints on the hard wood. Santa but it was mom. Then the next morning tonnes of presents were sit-ting under the tree. I got a dirt bike, shirt dirt bike pants and gloves. Then I got a some dry socks. Then I went to go in my back yard to build a snowman.

I also got a origi-nal x-box from my uncle Jeff and my Aunty Merry. Then I got a pop and tooth brush. It was the best Christmas ever!. I went to go sledding on my GT. It was really fun.

Patrick LabbyGrade 3

10-11

Three wise guysThe three wise men carry gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh in the Christmas display at the Bev and Ken Smith residence on Riverview Crescent in Clearwater. Photo by Keith McNeill

Dancing ElvesTwo elves dance in the Smith's display.Photo by Keith McNeill

Santa wavesAn inflatable Santa welcomes visitors.Photo by Keith McNeillyour source for FREE coupons

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When I woke up on Christmas day I peeked in my stocking and there was a whole bunch of chocolates and a whole bunch of other stuff. Then I took my stocking into my bedroom and searched my stocking until I got board. Then I went back to the liv-ing room and I saw something that was for my sister and it was a 41 inch flat screen TV. Then I went back to bed for an hour and a half. I woke back up and woke my mom up then she made breakfast. Then my grandma and papa came over with our presents. Then we got to open them and then my grandma and papa got Sage and I at least 3 or 4 presents. After that they had to go to their place. Then I had to have a shower. Then me and Sage had to go to our dad’s house.

When we got there our dad got us new hockey bags the exacted ones that we wanted. Then I got this enormous pres-ent and it was a race car set. After I opened that we played with it a long time. Then my other grandparents came over and they brought our dinner for us. Then we opened their presents.

Then a couple hours later we had dinner. Then we went sledding down this awesome hill. Then we had to go inside and have desert. After we had desert we played with the race car set again after that it was time to start getting ready for bed. By the time we got our teeth brushed and got our pj’s on we had to go to bed even though it was only 8 o’clock we still had to go to bed. I fell asleep really quick and that’s how I spent Christmas, with my mom and my dad.

Solamyn BarstowGrade 4

Raft River Elementary


One Christmas Eve a kitten went to find the Spirit of Christmas. Her name is Angel and Angel went to find it right away and she found a girl named Ally. She had a kitten and its name is Madison.

Allys kitten, Madison, had run a way from home. When Ally noticed Madison was gone she called to her. Soon she heard‚ "meow" and called, "Madison is that you?" Ali asked meow. She heard again. And then she found her kitten at last.

Jayne ColeGrade 2


Once upon a time there was a kitten named Lucy. She went

for a walk. On her walk she was chased by a dog into the for-est. She was scared. Lucy jumped behind a tree and found a hid-ing spot, a big hole in the tree.

Then she found an elf. They became best friends. Lucy went home to the elf’s

house. Lucy couldn’t believe her eyes. Most of the colours were red and green. Then she learned the true meaning of Christmas from the elf. He said to love and care for your family.

Reegan YurkiwGrade 3

10-11

Caroline Soles is waist deep in fresh powder snow as she backcountry skis on Middle Mountain (located between Raft and Trophy mountains northeast of Clearwater). Reportedly it was hard work going up but glorious coming down. Photo submitted

In the winter wonderland

Away in a mangerA nativity scene or creche depicts the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.Photo by Keith McNeill

From the rooftopSanta looks down from on top of a house in the Smiths' display. Photo by Keith McNeill



Late one Christmas Eve a little kitten named Whiskers was still awake. “Weeeeeee!” exclaimed Whiskers as he swung from branch to branch on the Christmas tree knocking a few Christmas tree balls off the tree as he did. Whiskers was a naughty kitten and he didn’t believe in Santa Clause. When he final-ly hopped down from the tree some time later, Whiskers slipped and missed his foot-

ing, causing him to slide into some stray wrapping paper! The more he struggled to get out of the paper, the more the wrap-ping paper wrapped around him! “Well” thought Whiskers as he lay upside down. “I think I know why people call this wrap-ping paper. If people didn’t know better they would think I was a Christmas present!” Just then Whiskers felt himself being lifted into the air as if he were flying! “My greatest dream

is coming true!!!” as he flipped through the air and landed in a large sack. Whiskers became afraid and a little queasy as the sack shot up the chim-ney and into a sleigh. Then, the sleigh got all bumpy and jolty as the sleigh flew into the air and did a loop the loop. Some time later Whiskers had pushed his way out of the wrapping paper and saw that he was in his own house again. And for a little extra surprise, he was nose to nose with Santa Clause!

Whiskers blinked once, twice, three times and squealed at the top of his little lungs...”MONSTER!!” Suddenly, Whiskers was in his own bed next to his own moth-er who was snoring away. Then he could hear the thunder of feet as kids dashed to the Christmas tree to find piles and piles of presents. Even Whiskers got one! He tore off the paper and found an entire box of cat toys! Whiskers was overjoyed! His first Christmas pres-ent! “Woowhooo!!” mewed Whiskers excit-edly. He didn’t notice he was being watched though. He was being watched by the spirit of Christmas himself! “Well” thought the spirit. “Looks like Whiskers has learned his lesson”. The spirit chuckled as he flew into the horizon and out of sight.

The EndBy Hannah Foisy

Grade 5Raft River Elementary

My Favorite ChristmasOn my favorite

Christmas I got up in the morning and threw off the blankets. It’s

Christmas! I got every-thing I wanted, yay! Halo 4. Welcome to Halo 4! What fun to play. That night Santa asked me to help him. After that night I became an elf. When I died I became the Spirit of Christmas.

By Jacob

A Video Game for Christmas

One time I got a vide game for Christmas. I was on the last level. I needed to defeat a four header dragon. He had a crown on his lead head because when you defeat the dragon you get the crown. It was the only best Christmas ever!

Sebastian EvansGrade 3


There was a kitten lost in the North Pole and Santa Claus res-cued the kitten.

“Who are you?” said the kitten. “I am Santa Claus, of course.” “Who is Santa Claus?” A person who gives you presents every Christmas. “Oh, I thought my mother bought my presents.” “You got it all wrong,” Santa Claus. And that’s how the Kitten Found the Spirit Of Christmas.

Nathan ToscanoGrade 2


One day a kit-ten never knew what Christmas was. Then one day a little girl found him. She said, “I wonder if he knows what Christmas is?” So she took him home. She gave him some food and water. She asked her mother if she can keep the kit-ten.

“Ok,” said her mom. “But you must walk him every day and feed him.”

“Ok,” said the girl.It was almost

Christmas. They had put the Christmas tree

up and put up the ornaments. In the mid-dle of the night, Santa came. The kitten saw him. Santa said, “Ho, my, you do’t know what Christmas is? I will show you what Christmas is. Come with me, little guy, you will see!” So he took the kitten with him. He showed the kitten what Christmas was about.

The kitten was amazed what Christmas was but then the Grinch came. And the Grinch said to Santa, “I hate Christmas because of you, Santa,” Then he kidnapped Santa! The kitten was sad that nobody would get presents.

So the kitten was going to save Santa. The kitten was on his way to save Santa. He was almost there but a heti came. The kit-ten was scared but the yeti was a nice yeti. He wanted to help the kitten. So he said, “I don’t want to eat you — I want to help you.”

So the kitten and the yeti went to save Santa. But the kitten was going to die. The yeti tried to keep him warm.

The yeti saw a town where the Grinch lived. So the yeti went to stop the Grinch. The yeti found the Grinch’s hide out. The yeti went inside. He put the kitten down.

He went to stop the Grinch. The Grinch was making Santa build a sleigh. But the yeti said, “Stop it!”

“No,” said Grinch. When Santa builds me a sleigh I will take every one’s Christmas dinner. The yeti found a cage and the yeti put the cage on the Grinch and quickly untied Santa. The kit-ten came in. The yeti was happy the kitten didn’t die.

Aloyce KirangoGrade 3

My Favorite ChristmasOnce upon a

time a year ago on a Christmas night I stayed up all night watching TV and eat-ing popcorn. Then I saw foot prints on the hard wood. Santa but it was mom. Then the next morning tonnes of presents were sit-ting under the tree. I got a dirt bike, shirt dirt bike pants and gloves. Then I got a some dry socks. Then I went to go in my back yard to build a snowman.

I also got a origi-nal x-box from my uncle Jeff and my Aunty Merry. Then I got a pop and tooth brush. It was the best Christmas ever!. I went to go sledding on my GT. It was really fun.

Patrick LabbyGrade 3

10-11

Three wise guysThe three wise men carry gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh in the Christmas display at the Bev and Ken Smith residence on Riverview Crescent in Clearwater. Photo by Keith McNeill

Dancing ElvesTwo elves dance in the Smith's display.Photo by Keith McNeill

Santa wavesAn inflatable Santa welcomes visitors.Photo by Keith McNeill

HOLIDAY HOURS:

December 27-30 -REGULAR HOURS

December 31 - 6AM – 6PM

January 1 – 8 AM – 8PM

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Come see us for all of your last minute Christmas and

New Year party needs.



When I woke up on Christmas day I peeked in my stocking and there was a whole bunch of chocolates and a whole bunch of other stuff. Then I took my stocking into my bedroom and searched my stocking until I got board. Then I went back to the liv-ing room and I saw something that was for my sister and it was a 41 inch flat screen TV. Then I went back to bed for an hour and a half. I woke back up and woke my mom up then she made breakfast. Then my grandma and papa came over with our presents. Then we got to open them and then my grandma and papa got Sage and I at least 3 or 4 presents. After that they had to go to their place. Then I had to have a shower. Then me and Sage had to go to our dad’s house.

When we got there our dad got us new hockey bags the exacted ones that we wanted. Then I got this enormous pres-ent and it was a race car set. After I opened that we played with it a long time. Then my other grandparents came over and they brought our dinner for us. Then we opened their presents.

Then a couple hours later we had dinner. Then we went sledding down this awesome hill. Then we had to go inside and have desert. After we had desert we played with the race car set again after that it was time to start getting ready for bed. By the time we got our teeth brushed and got our pj’s on we had to go to bed even though it was only 8 o’clock we still had to go to bed. I fell asleep really quick and that’s how I spent Christmas, with my mom and my dad.

Solamyn BarstowGrade 4

Raft River Elementary


One Christmas Eve a kitten went to find the Spirit of Christmas. Her name is Angel and Angel went to find it right away and she found a girl named Ally. She had a kitten and its name is Madison.

Allys kitten, Madison, had run a way from home. When Ally noticed Madison was gone she called to her. Soon she heard‚ "meow" and called, "Madison is that you?" Ali asked meow. She heard again. And then she found her kitten at last.

Jayne ColeGrade 2


Once upon a time there was a kitten named Lucy. She went

for a walk. On her walk she was chased by a dog into the for-est. She was scared. Lucy jumped behind a tree and found a hid-ing spot, a big hole in the tree.

Then she found an elf. They became best friends. Lucy went home to the elf’s

house. Lucy couldn’t believe her eyes. Most of the colours were red and green. Then she learned the true meaning of Christmas from the elf. He said to love and care for your family.

Reegan YurkiwGrade 3

10-11

Caroline Soles is waist deep in fresh powder snow as she backcountry skis on Middle Mountain (located between Raft and Trophy mountains northeast of Clearwater). Reportedly it was hard work going up but glorious coming down. Photo submitted

In the winter wonderland

Away in a mangerA nativity scene or creche depicts the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.Photo by Keith McNeill

From the rooftopSanta looks down from on top of a house in the Smiths' display. Photo by Keith McNeill


Marty Hastings - Kamloops This Week

The Kamloops Blazers’ resident travel agent, media co-ordi-nator Tim O’Donovan, has it easy in the second half of the Western Hockey League’s regu-lar season

After spending 23 nights in hotels in the first half, the Blazers will find accommoda-tion on the road only nine times after the Christmas break.

“We had a tough first half, playing 20 of our road games, with two big trips into Alberta,” said Dave Hunchak, the Blazers’ associate coach.

“If we can spread our schedule in the sec-ond half, that lends to us being healthier, No. 1, and being fresher, whether it’s at home or on the road.”

The Blazers have 16 road games in the second half - 12 of them are against B.C. Division opponents and none of them are against Eastern Conference teams.

For Kamloops, the toughest road stretch will run from Jan. 11 to Jan. 18, during which the Blazers play twice in Prince George, twice in Victoria and once in Kennewick, Wash.

The Blazers stum-bled into the holidays, losing three straight, once in overtime, to cap a four-game Alberta road swing.

After taking the league by storm in September and October, the Blue and Orange cooled off in November and December, allow-ing the Portland Winterhawks to enter the break atop the Western Conference.

The Blazers, at 25-9-2-2, are in second place with 54 points.

Portland, at 28-5-1, has played four fewer games than Kamloops.

Perhaps fatigue caught up with the River City club as it coasted to the end of the first half.

The home stretch of the second half is much less taxing.

The Blazers play five of their last seven regular-season games at Interior Savings Centre.

Away from the ice, the players can use the lighter second-half

schedule to catch up on schoolwork, while the team’s travelling staff is looking forward to becoming re-acquainted with family, friends and significant others.

“I’m very fortunate to have married a very good woman who puts up with a lot of stuff,” said Hunchak, whose team returns to action in Kelowna against the Rockets on Dec. 27.

“Any time you can spend time at home, whether you’re watch-ing your kids do sport or school activities, or just being around the house, it’s real impor-tant.”

Did you know?Media man, slash

video coach, slash office-staff member, slash travel agent Tim O’Donovan - the Kordell Stewart of the Blue and Orange - is responsible for booking hotels on the road.

Prior to O’Donovan, it was now departed assistant coach Scott Ferguson who handled accomodation plan-ning.

When possible, the Blazers stay at a Sandman Hotel - owned by Tom Gaglardi, majority owner of the Blazers.

12 - 13

Sports

Kamloops This Week

Kamloops will host a British Columbia Golf tournament in 2013.Eaglepoint is the venue for the provincial senior men’s amateur championship, slated to

run from July 29 to July 31.There will be 12 B.C. Golf championships played between May and August.

Novice teams battle for the puckClearwater Novice players (r-l) Owen Sim, Cassidy Tucker, Sage Barstow, and Korie McGill take the puck past a Kamloops opponent during one of two games they played the weekend before last at the Sportsplex. The Novices tied the � rst game 3-3 and won the second 7-4. “The kids all had a great time – lots of fun!” said one coach. Photo by Keith McNeill

Eaglepoint to host B.C. Golf tournament

Kamloops Blazers’ associate coach Dave Hunchak is looking forward to luxuries provided by a lighter second-half Western Hockey League schedule. Allen Douglas/KTW

Second-half schedule offers respite for Blazers

For more information about the Sportsplex or any programs call 250 674 2143

NORTH THOMPSON SPORTSPLEX Hockey Lives Here!

MINOR HOCKEY GAME SCHEDULE

To be announced

FAMILY SKATE 4:30pm Friday Dec. 28

& Sunday Dec. 30 Sponsored by Century 21Clearwater & District Minor Hockey www.cdmha.info. Register @ ‘250 674

2594 or [email protected] Mountain Skating Club Register @ www.raftmountain.com Oldtimers Hockey Every Wed. @ 8:30pm and Sunday at 7:30pm

MENS REC. HOCKEY LEAGUE Games every Fri. at 7:30 & every Sun. at 6pm Call for Information

The staff at the Sportsplex wishes

everyone a safe holiday and a happy

new year


Children are often the focus of food marketing campaigns. Companies view children as having significant purchasing power because of their influence on parents and caregivers. Many of these campaigns influ-ence children’s food pref-erences, food choices and the products they request and the results are not always healthy.

Children are often targeted in the grocery store through packaging, labelling, pricing and product placement. Food products use bright colours, characters, shapes, and flavours to grab the attention of children. Manufacturers pay extra to have their product located at eye level, at the end of aisles and at the cashier in the hopes that their attractively packaged products will be noticed by children. Many products marketed to children are high in sugar, fat, and salt. With the increasing rates of childhood obesity in Canada the food preferences and choices of children is a growing concern.

Parents can learn to successfully navigate the grocery store and avoid the lure and temptation of less healthy options for children. Here’s a cou-ple tips to help encourage healthy food choices in the grocery store.

Look beyond the flashy claims on the product label. Some food packages contain misleading claims about the product. For instance, a bever-age package may use big colourful fonts to draw attention to its high vitamin and mineral content; however, it may not be as obvious that the bever-age also contains lots of sugar because the food manufacturer does not draw attention to this information. Check the Nutrition Facts table, especially the percent daily value and the ingredi-ent list for a more accurate description of what a product actually contains.

Bring two grocery lists to the store - one for yourself and one for your child. Make sure the

lists include healthy choices. Children can help grocery shop by looking for items on their list. A list will help them stay focused and they will be less distracted by other products in the gro-cery store. If children are influenced by labels and placement of less healthy food, divert their attention back to the items still needed on their grocery list.

Make sure your child has eaten something before going to the grocery store with you. If necessary, provide a healthy snack to occupy them while shopping. A hungry shopper, whether a child or adult, is more likely to be tempted by unhealthy foods.

So next time you and the kids head to the grocery store do a little planning, make some lists and don’t forget to think critically about all those flashy claims right before your eyes.

Kelowna, B.C. - Thanks to its Twitter and Facebook fans, Interior Savings will be donating more than $20,000 to local United Way branches this week. Over the past two months, the credit union has been running a social media campaign to help it give away thousands of dollars to local charities.

For every new fan who ‘liked’ their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/InteriorSavings, Interior Savings pledged to donate $10 to United Way branches throughout the BC Interior - up to a total of $20,000. Twitter follow-ers were also invited to join in the pre-holiday giveaway by nominating their favourite local charity for a share of an additional $5,000.

United Way is a charity that Interior Savings CEO Kathy Conway holds in great regard. Conway has been the United Way Central Okanagan campaign chair for the past two years, and has helped to establish a community partnership between Interior Savings and United Way.

“At Interior Savings, we are proud to support United Way. Through Success by 6 and other funded programs, United Way provides help and resources for young children and other vulnerable people within our communities. It is our hope that this donation will help United Way to pro-vide some comfort to these people this holiday season and throughout the year,” Conway said.

Marla O’Brien, executive director, United Way Central and South Okanagan Similkameen, acknowledged the

importance of contributions such as this to the continuation of their work.

“United Way works towards creating a better life for everyone on our communities and we accomplish this with the support of com-munity-minded corporations, like Interior Savings. Thank you Interior Savings for donating over $20,000 - in addition to your annual United Way staff-supported campaign. Your leadership truly makes a lasting positive impact throughout the BC Interior,” she said.

The winners of the Interior Savings Twitter campaign and a $700 donation each are as follows:

- The Carma Project- Kamloops Elizabeth Fry Society- United Way Central and Southern

Okanagan Similkameen- United Way Thompson Nicola

Cariboo- Kamloops Food Bank- Kamloops People in MotionInterior Savings is the largest credit

union based in the Interior of B.C. with assets exceeding $2.0 billion. Through its 21 branches, 15 insurance offices, and two

Commercial Services Centres, Interior Savings offers personal and commercial banking and a full range of insurance and wealth management services to members in 14 communities.

12 - 13United Way loves that you like Interior Savings

Don’t get caught in a food marketing trap

Rose Soneff

St James Catholic Church

Sunday Service Mass • 11am - 12pmTuesday & Thursday

10am324 Clearwater

Village Road 250-672-5949

•Father Don O’Reilly

Clearwater Seventh-Day

Adventist Church

Pastor Bill KellySaturday Service - 10amClearwater Christian Church

Ph. 250-674-3468

Clearwater Living Streams Christian

FellowshipMeeting at

New Life Assemblyevery Sunday 5:00pm

Contact Dave Meehan 250-674-3217email: [email protected]

Clearwater Community Churchopen to everyone - all denominations

CLEARWATER NEW LIFE ASSEMBLYDan Daase - Pastor

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am

(Kids church during service)Wednesdays Am - Ladies Bible Study

Thursday 3-5pm Kids ClubPhone: 250-674-2345

308 W Old N Thompson Hwy

ChurchDirectoryYour places of worship

VAVENBY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

3083 Capostinsky Rd. • Service 11 a.m.

Sunday Morning Celebration

ServicesIan Moilliet Pastor -

250-676-9574Non Denominational

Clearwater Christian Church“an Independent” congregation in fellowship with the

broader Christian community in the area.Meeting at: 11 Lodge Drive

(Behind Fields Store)

Sunday Worship Service

10 amOn the Web: www.clchch.com

For information 250.674.3841 or 250.674.2912

Pastor Mike Kiewitt250.674.1332

www.ccbaptist.ca

COMMUNITYBAPTIST

24E Old North Thompson Hwy

Worship Service 10:30

CLEARWATER UNITED CHURCH

Meeting at Catholic Church of St. James

Worship Sunday 9am

250-672-5653 • 250-674-3615 250-676-9435

[email protected]

Mandatory Self Employment Orientation

(Funding & Business Plan Assistance, Start-up Assistance & more)

Are you unemployed and unable to find meaningful or enough work? Have you had an Employment Insurance (EI) claim in the past 3-5 years? What about creating your own employment through

Self Employment The next Mandatory Self Employment Orientation session will be

January 24th 1:00pm-3:00pm – Please call for more information

_________________________________________________ CLEARWATER EMPLOYMENT SERVICES CENTRE

58A Young Road, Clearwater BC V0E 1N2 Phone: 250- 674-2928 Fax: 250- 674-2938

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 8:00 – 4:00 Email: [email protected]

www.clearwateremployment.ca Operated by Yellowhead Community Services

The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by

The Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

Visit Your WorkBC Office Join Us For Free Coffee & Goodies

December 10th – January 10th ________________________________________________

The next Mandatory Self Employment Orientation session will be


Business & Service DirectoryACCOUNTANT - CERTIFIED

STONE & COMPANY(Robert Lawrie, Silvia Scheibenp� ug)

Certi� ed General AccountantsRison Realty • 32 E Old N. Thompson Hwy.

Feb. 1st to Apr. 30th - Every ThursdayMay 1st to Jan. 31st - By AppointmentHours: 9:30 am to Noon, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Phone: 250-674-2532 • Kamloops: 554-2533 • Fax: 554-2536Financial Statement Preparation • Corporate & Personal Income Taxes

Accountant - Certified Appliance Repair Auctions

CARPENTRY

Hazel’s HousingQUALITY WORK

• NEW CONSTRUCTION • RENOVATIONS • ROOFING

CLEARWATER, B.C.

250-674-4083Hazel Dowds

Journeyman Carpenter

Carpentry

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Symons ElectricGood Prices • Great Service • Quality WorkLARRY SYMONS • LICENSED & BONDED • CLEARWATER

- CLOSED MONDAYS - • B.C. Reg. #24833

250-587-6175

Electric Contractors

Building Supply

Winter Hours • 8:30am - 5pm

Electric Contractors

Licenced & BondedReg. NO: 99142

Florist

JAGER GARBAGEResidential & Commercial

Garbage Collection. Residential includes Blue Bag Recycling

Containers available for construction sites, yard clean-up, industrial sites etc.

Phone Jager Garbage 250-674-3798Serving from Vavenby to Blackpool area

GARBAGE COLLECTIONGarbage Collection

AdvertiseA DVERTISING

For All YourAdvertising

NeedsCall

THE TIMESAl Kirkwood

674-3343

CONTRACTORS

Septic - Installation - Service - PumpingDemolition - Excavation - Backhoe Service

Trucking - Crane Truck - Water - DumpGravel - Sand - Top Soil - Snow Removal

Paul Jack250.819.3205 250.299.9510

ContractingConstruction

John White

Fully Insured

Journeyman Carpenters

Bonded General Contractor

Tiny Builders Ltd.Box 345

Clearwater BCV0E 1N0

(250) 674-4001(250) [email protected]

ConstructionConstruction &

Renovations from Foundations

to Roof

Rob Kerslake

Steve Noble

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

NORTH RIVERAPPLIANCE REPAIRFour Star Service

250-674-0079

DOUG JAMESPARTS - SALES - SERVICE CALLS USED APPLIANCES

Construction

DNA ConstructionNew Construction, Renovations, Tiling, Roo� ng.

Dan Arnold250-587-0010

Heating

VANDENBORRE HEATING

PROPANE & ELECTRIC FURNACE REPAIRFurnace Installation • Heat Pumps and Air ConditioningRadon Gas Mitigation • Serving Blue River - Little Fort

YOUR FRIENDLY REPAIR MANHANDYMAN SERVICES

Jim Vandenborre • Fully insured [email protected] 250.674.8552A division of Vortec Enterprises visa, debit, mc accepted

Good Prices • Great Service • Quality WorkLARRY SYMONS • LICENSED & BONDED • CLEARWATER


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Good Prices • Great Service • Quality WorkSymons ElectricSymons ElectricSymons Electric

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AUCTIONS

• AUCTION • AUCTION • AUCTION • AUCTION • AUCTION • Every 2 weeks Starting August 11, 2012

Consignments WelcomeNEW LOCATION

4761 Gilbert Drive Barriere Industrial Park

Phone 250-672-9809 or 250-319-5230Email: [email protected]

Website: haydnauctionservicebc.com

HAYDN AUCTION SERVICES

73 Taren Drive, Clearwater Phone 250-674-2929 Toll Free: 1-877-974-2929

~ fl owers ~ plants ~ gifts ~ balloon bouquets ~specializing in weddings, sympathy, birthdays,

anniversaries and other important occasions

Contractor

Building Contractor

Renovations • Additions • New Construction •

Home Repairs • HAFI Jobs • Proje� Management

250-674-3875Clearwater, BC • [email protected]�

40 years experience

Building Contractor

HANS OUNPUU

Heating & Air Conditioning

Furnace Installations • Heat Pump Installations • Hot Water Tank Replacements • Air Conditioning installs • We repair all makes

and models • Modular Home Furnaces • Ducting

250-879-2777

Convenience Store

RAFT RIVER STOREG A S . D I E S E L . G R O C E R I E S

Blackwell Dairy ProductsTOOL RENTALS

Winter Hours Open 8 am - 6 pm daily733 Clearwater Village Rd

Ph. 250-674-2688 Fax 250-674-3392A division of Vortec Enterprises

Misc. Services

ABIGAIL’S ESSENTIAL SERVICES1.250.587.63731.888.587.3576

Abigail’s Essential Services, serving Clearwater, BC and surrounding area, is committed toempowering customers by providing essential services that will enrich and enhance theirlifestyles.

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ABIGAIL’S ESSENTIAL SERVICES1.250.587.63731.888.587.3576

Abigail’s Essential Services, serving Clearwater, BC and surrounding area, is committed toempowering customers by providing essential services that will enrich and enhance theirlifestyles.

Services include:




pet sitting/walkingparent/child visit supervision

bakingmeal planning/preparation

travel companioncar washing

medical advocate

walking/hikingbanking

bookkeepinglandscape planning

snow shovellingand more!

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pet sitting/walkingparent/child visit

supervisionbaking

meal planning/preparationtravel companion

car washing

medical advocatewalking/hiking

bankingbookkeeping

landscape planningsnow shovelling

and more!

1.250.587.6373 • 1.888.587.3576

ABIGAIL’S ESSENTIAL SERVICES


Business & Service Directory

Arrow Lake News (Nakusp)Ashcroft Cache Creek JournalCaledonia Courier (Ft. St. James)CastlegarEagle Valley NewsGolden StarHouston TodayInvermere Valley EchoKamloops This WeekKelowna Capital NewsKootenay Advertiser (Cranbrook)

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Ask me about the

Lower Mainland

& Vancouver

Island Al KirkwoodAdvertising Manager

672-5611 or 674-3410email: [email protected]

CHECK YOUR MARKET

90 plus publications serving

British Columbia

Contracting

On allSERVICESConstruction • Renovations • Certi� ed Septic & Water • Plumbing • Wells & Repairs •

Excavation • Dump Truck • Toilet Rentals • Towing • Certi� ed Traf� c Control

AT ON CALL... WE DO IT ALL...

Septic Service - Pumper TruckBobcat and Backhoe

Plumbing

Office Space for RentIndustrial Lot with Hwy 5 Access and Visibility

$350 a month.

250-674-0145

ORWATER WELLS

BUD’S WATER WELLS LTD.Toll Free 1-888-83WELLS OVER 25

YEARS EXPERIENCEResidential & Industrial Wells

Certi� ed Well DrillerDuane BochekKamloops, B.C.

Bus. (250) 573-3000Toll Free 1-888-839-3557

Water Wells

Storage

Towing

CLEARWATER TOWING LTD.24 Hour ServiceFree Scrap Car Removal516 Swanson RoadUsed Auto Parts

NELS HINDLE OFFICE: 250-674-3123or CELL: 250-674-1427 ®

TAXI SERVICE

WELLS GRAY

TAXIAVAILABLE 24 HOURS • 7 DAYS A WEEK

250-674-2214 • 250-674-1542

Taxi Service


Septic Service

CLEARWATER SEPTIC SERVICEGive us a call before it’s too late! BEST rates in town

250-674-3562Serving the North Thompson Valley for over 10 Years

Valemount • Blue River • Avola • Vavenby • Clearwater • Little Fort

& PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS

Storage

NORTH THOMPSON STORAGESECURED FENCED FACILITY

24-HR MONITORED VIDEO SURVEILLANCER.V.’S, BOATS, TRAILERS, TRUCKS, ETC.

1st 20 spaces at $500/year778-208-5300 Clearwater, BC

Snow Removal

FULL STEAM Snow Removal and Sanding

Phone 250-674-1470Commercial & Residential

John ChaytorBox 561 Clearwater, BC V0E [email protected]

Vocal CoachVOCAL COACHFrom the music stand of…

Leah Jones• Vocal Coach and Music Teacher, Choir Director

• Child and Adult Lessons(Reasonable Rates)

[email protected] leahpepperjones.blogspot.com

250-957-8440

From the music stand of…

Leah Jones• Vocal Coach and Music Teacher, Choir Director

• Child and Adult Lessons(Reasonable Rates)

[email protected] leahpepperjones.blogspot.com

250-957-8440leahpepperjones.com

From the music stand of…

• Vocal Coach and Music Teacher, Choir Director• Child and Adult Lessons

(Reasonable Rates)

Plumbing & Drains

NEED A PLUMBER?

JASEN MANN 250-674-8151

NORTH THOMPSON

NTPDPLUMBING AND DRAINS


Taylor, Epp & DolderLawyers

Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. - NoonBarriere Centre - 480 Barriere Town Road

Lawyer in attendance: Elmer Epp

Barriere 250-672-5244 • Kamloops: 250-374-3456

Lawyers

MOTOR LICENCE OFFICE

ICBC AgentDistrict of Clearwater

250-674-2733132 Station Road, Box 157, Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0Offi ce Hours: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Open through the Noon hour

Motor Licence Office

Service • Sales • InstallationsStar Choice Approved Service TechnicianPhone: 250-674-0066 or 250-674-8877

email: [email protected]

Satellite Service

WELLS GRAY

TAXIAVAILABLE 24 HOURS • 7 DAYS A WEEK

250-674-2214 • 250-674-1542

Taxi Service

BUD’S WATER WELLS LTD.Toll Free 1-888-83WELLS OVER 25

YEARS EXPERIENCEResidential & Industrial Wells

Certifi ed Well DrillerDuane BochekKamloops, B.C.

Bus. (250) 573-3000Toll Free 1-888-839-3557

Water Wells

Safe ShelterIf you need help getting away from domestic abuse,

call Safe Home

(250) 674-2135 in Little Fort, Clearwater, Birch Island, Vavenby, Avola & Blue River

(250) 682-6444 in Dar eld, Barriere, Chu Chua, Louis Creek and McLure

Anytime day or night - Please don’t wait until it’s too late.Call us now. We can help.

If you would like to volunteer, call 250-674-2600 and ask for Wendy

Lawyer

Jim McCreightin Clearwater the 2 nd & 4 th

W ednesday of each month

Ph: 250-674-2255 (Clearwater)Toll Free: 1-888-374-3161

Located in the BB&R Insuranceoffice, Brookfield Mall

Jim McCreightin Clearwater the 2 nd & 4 th

W ednesday of each month

For all your legal needs, including:• Wills & Estates • Real Estate • Accident & Injury

Located in the Interior Savings Offi ce, Ph: 250-674-2255 or Toll Free: 1-888-374-3161

Nursery


Kodiak Kennels Breeding & Boarding

Breeders of Golden RetrieversPet Vacations at Kodiak Ranch

Lyle & Mary ThomasBox 189Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0

Ph. 250-674-0093Toll Free. 1-877-Kodiak9www.kodiakranch.com

Pick up and delivery available

KennelHorseshoeing

Cell: 250-682-5577 • Home: 250-674-4033

Interior Design

• C u s t o m B l i n d s & D r a p e r y • H o m e D é c o r F a b r i c• F l o o r i n g S a m p l e s • J o u r n e y m a n F l o o r I n s t a l l a t i o n s• P a i n t i n g - I n t e r i o r & E x t e r i o r • S m a l l R e n o v a t i o n s

• I n - H o m e D é c o r C o n s u l t a t i o n s

Call Val the Blind Gal250-674-1543

Toll Free 1-866-674-1543

Valerie PantonIn-home Décor Consultant 26 years experience

Jim PantonFloor Layer & Painter

37 years in the trade• • •

• C u s t o m B l i n d s & D r a p e r y • H o m e D é c o r F a b• F l o o r i n g S a m p l e s • J o u r n e y m a n F l o o r I n s t a l l a• P a i n t i n g - I n t e r i o r & E x t e r i o r • S l l R

Call Val the B250-674-

Toll Free 1-866-

Styling on Highway 5

ContractingON CALL

Service CenterLandscaping

Sweeper

Post Hole Auger

DIVISION

Construction, Renos & DemosSeptic Service - Pumper TruckBackhoe & BobcatCertifi ed Traffi c Control & Tow Truck - 24 HoursTraffi c Control/Certifi edPortable toilet rentalsChimney SweepPlumbingWell Repair

Traffi c Control & Towing

RON ROTZETTER250-674-0145 / 250-318-7235

Call 250-674-1869

DIVISIONS

Naturalized Landscaping

Box 463Clearwater, B.C. V0E [email protected]

Tel: (250) 674-3444Fax: (250) 674-3444

Geoff Ellen, P. AGForest Agrologist

• Landscape Design • Xeric Dryscapes • Native Species Landscapes • Hydroseeded Lawns • Land Reclamation

• Agroforestry • Range Management • Raw Land Assessment/Ideas • Aerial Revegetation • Greenhouses

AMARANTH FARM & NURSERY - McLure BCColorado Spruce Blue/Green

1m to 3m’s - Burlapped & Basketed

$60 - $160 • Hundreds to Choose from

Large Caliper Colorful Shade Trees to 14’

Call Bob at 672-9712 • cell 819-9712Wholesale to the Public & Business

massage

Located In The Legion Building

BODY HARMONYShiatsu Clinic

Registered with N.H.P.C. & Canadian Refl exology Association

Open Tues., Wed. & Thurs. Call for day or evening

appointments(250) 674-0098

ACUPRESSURE & SHIATSU MASSAGE

JAYLEE DOG GROOMINGArlee Yoerger

Professional Quality Pet Grooming

3133 Hundsbedt RdVAVENBY BC

250-676-0052

Pet Grooming

Septic

ON CALL SEPTIC SERVICES in Clearwater will be in

Valemount, Blue River and Avola every fi rst Friday of each month.

Charges for septic pumps start at $250 plus tax. Charges are subject to pump volume, location of the tank

and dumping fees.We do require a minimum of 3 appointments

to be able to service your area.

Please call to make an appointment250-674-0145 or 250-674-1869

Advertising

For All YourAdvertising

Needs

Call

THE TIMESAl Kirkwood

674-3343

Storage

250.674.0145

Covered RV & Boat Storage

NOW AVAILABLEOff the Hook

STORAGEMini Storage Units

MOTOR LICENCE OFFICE

ICBC AgentDistrict of Clearwater

250-674-2733132 Station Road, Box 157, Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0Of� ce Hours: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Open through the Noon hour

Motor Licence Office Propane Sales

PROPANE SALES & SERVICE

Call Bev

For all of your propane needs

250-374-9439

-Residential -Rental -Commercial -Parts -Cylinder -Bulk

702 Athabasca Street East Kamloops, BC – www.calgasinc.com


Call Bev


250-374-9439




Call Bev


250-374-9439



Call Bev for all your propane needs250-374-9439

Residential • Rental • Commercial • Cylinder • Parts • Bulk

CLOSED

MERRY CHRISTMAS


THOUGHTFOR THE

WEEK

Write it on your

heart that every

day is the best

day in the year.

~ Ralph Waldo

Emerson

Wells Gray Country

TO ADD YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT OR ORGANIZATION PLEASE CALL THE TIMES AT 250-674-3343

Dec. 31: Bullarama, NT Agriplex, Barriere, www.farmkids-fund.ca

Dec. 31: Legion New Years Dance, tickets at door, $10, doors open 8pm.

Jan 1: New Year’s Day Buffet at Blue River Community Hall.Jan. 2: WG Country Seniors Society meeting, 10am 751 Clw

Village RdJan. 3: Learn to skate registration, NT Sportsplex, 3:30 -7 pm

Jan. 3: Elks Bingo, Elks Hall, west Old NT Hwy. Doors open 5pm, call @ 250-674-3535 for info

Jan 4: Little Fort Coffee House, Little Fort Community Hall, Doors open 6:30, mic $4/person. Info Bill Fowler 250-672-5116

Jan. 27: Fishing Derby on Dutch Lake. Sponsored by Clear-water Rotary Club

Feb 2: Wells Gray Outdoors Club sponsors the Birchleg at the Candle Creek Ski Trails . 250-674-2327 for info.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT• Coffee House: 1st Friday every month - Little Fort Community

Hall. 6:30, mic $4/person. Info Bill Fowler 250-672-5116• Raft River Rockhounds: 3rd Sunday of the mth. 250-674-2700• Women in Business Luncheon: 2nd Wed. of the mth at Wells

Gray Inn, 12–2 pm. Preregister at 250-674-2700• Clearwater Choir: Youth 3:30 - 5 pm; Adult 6:30 - 9 pm, Tues-

days, Clearwater Christian Church• Crafts & Conversations with Cheryl. Tuesdays 11:00 am to

2:00 pm at the North Thompson Aboriginal Sharing Center. Phone 674-3703 for more info.

• Clearwater Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 9:00 am – Noon. For more information please call Anne at 250-674-3444.

• Clearwater-Vavenby Lions Bingo: Every 2nd Tues. Elks Hall. 250-587-6269

• M&M (Mrs. & Ms.) Social. Last Sun of the mth Wells Gray Inn. 1pm: 587-6503

• Blackpool Community Hall Coffee House; Local musicians – ev-ery 2nd Fri. of the month. 6:30 pm. Concession, $3 or 2 for $5.

• Clearwater Elks Bingo - every 2nd Thurs. Elks Hall. open 5pm• Cribbage Wed. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 12:30 pm.• Little Fort Coffee House 7pm Little Fort Hall. 1st Fri of the mth

Oct. - May Bill 672-5116• Fun Darts Fri. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 6 pm.CHILDREN & FAMILIES• Raccoon StrongStart: Raft River Elem school days Mon, Tues,

Thurs & Fri from 8:45-11:45am• Raccoon StrongStart: Vavenby Elem school days Wed 8:50-

11:50am• Clearwater Breastfeeding Group: 3rd Wed. of every month

7:30pm @ YCS• Mother Goose - Mornings, reg. call Kerry 250-674-2600 ext 227HEALTH & HEALINGTuesday Morning Coffee ~ 10 am – 11 am at Baptist Church.

Themed weekly women’s discussions - drop-in.

• Shambhala Meditation Group: meets every Tuesday at Forest House 6:30-8:00 pm. Info: 250-587-6373.

• Connections Healing Rooms - Fridays1-3pm (except stat. holi-days). 86 Young Rd. No charge. Sponsored by Living Streams Christian Church. www.healingrooms.com.

• Healthy Choices – Every Tues 9am at the Clearwater Christian Church basement( behind Fields). $2/wk drop-in free. Info call Kim 250-674-0224

• Clearwater & District Hospice 3rd Mon. Sept-Jun 10am Legion. RECREATION• Drop-in soccer: May-Sept. Tuesdays & Thursday at 7pm at CSS

� eld. Everyone welcome!• Bowling: Mon. 10–12pm & 1-3pm; Thurs., 1-3pm. Seniors

Centre at Evergreen Acres. 674-2699• Clearwater Sno-Drifters: Meet 1st Thursday of every month.

250-676-9414• CNT Rod & Gun Club: 3rd Sun. of the mth. Blackpool Hall 7pm

Sept. - April• Drop in Tennis: May-Sept. Mon & Thurs 6:30pm All levels.

Double & single play. Rotary Sports Park.• Volleyball: Tues. 7:30-9:00 PM, Jan. 15 - Apr. 30, 2013. Clearwa-

ter Secondary School Gym, $2 drop in.• Yoga Tree – Call or email Annie 674-2468 annie.pomme@

hotmail.com• Core Strength Fitness. Tuesdays. 10-11am 250-674-0001• Walking Club: Indoors: Wed. Jan. 30 - Mar. 13, 6:30 - 7:30 AM

at Clearwater Secondary. FREE. 250-674-1878 for more info.• Drop-in Curling: Fri. Jan. 11 - Mar. 8, 7:00 PM, $5. Brooms and

sliders available.• Badminton: Mon. and Wed. Jan. 7 - Mar. 27, 7:30 - 9:30 PMSENIORS• Wells Gray Country Senior’s Society 3rd Sun Social Meet at

the Wells Gray Hotel at 12:30pm for lunch or dessert, & chat• Wells Gray Country Senior’s Society Book Club Last Thursday

of the month at 2pm at the public library. All seniors are welcome.

UPCOMING EVENTS

For a complete list of our area’s COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS please stop in at the Times of� ce and pick up your copy of the North

Thompson Community Directory • Brook� eld Mall Clearwater • 250-674-3343

ONGOING EVENTS

GYMNASTICSPLEASE NOTE: THERE IS A LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES AVAILABLE.

DATES: JAN. 8 - MAR. 14, 2013

Mom & 3 year olds Thurs 1:45pm to 2:30pm $55 4 year olds Mixed Tues 1:30pm to 2:30pm $65 4 year olds Mixed Wed 1:30pm to 2:30pm $65 5 & 6 Girls Tues 2:45pm to 3:45pm $70 5 & 6 Girls Wed 2:45pm to 3:45pm $70 5 & 6 Boys Thurs 2:45pm to 3:45pm $70 7 to 9 Boys Tues 4:00pm to 5:00pm $80 7 to 9 Girls Wed 4:00pm to 5:00pm $80 7 to 9 Girls Thurs 4:00pm to 5:00pm $80 10 and up Boys Tues 6:00pm to 7:30pm $125 10 and up irls Wed 6:00pm to 7:30pm $125 10 and up Girls Thurs 6:00pm to 7:30pm $125

TO REGISTER, PLEASE CALL 250-674-3530 OR EMAIL [email protected].

REGISTER TODAYTEL: 250.674.3530 IN PERSON: 224 Candle Creek Rd. EMAIL: sarduini@

tru.ca www.tru.ca/regional_centres/clearwater

250-674-2674

Bayley’s BistroBayley’s Bistroin the Brookfield Shopping Centre in Clearwater

Eat in or Take out Fried Chicken

250-674-2674

this ad is sponsored by

North Thompson Times Thursday, December 27, 2012 www.clearwatertimes.com A17

CARE AIDESInterior Community Services is current y irin C re i es to

permanent part-time and casual positionsat our residential home in Barriere, BC.

Equivalent training and experience will be considered. Email resume to [email protected] or fax 250-376-3040

“The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia”

In Partnership with Barriere & District Chamber of Commerce and Yellowhead Community Services

Operate by Yellowhead Community ServicesThe Employment Program of BC is funded by the Government of Canada & the Province of British Columbia

BARRIERE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES629 Barriere Town Rd. Barriere, BC V0E 1E0Phone: 250-672-0036 / Fax: 250-672-2159

E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.barriere-employment.ca

CLEARWATER EMPLOYMENT SERVICES58A Young Road, Clearwater BC V0E 1N2

250-674-2928 Fax 250-674-2938E-mail: [email protected] • Web Page: www.clearwateremployment.ca

GENERAL INFORMATION• Free Workshops: Thurs. Dec. 27th: Work Search Techniques Workshop (every 4th Thursday)Thurs. Jan. 10th: Internet & Email Basics Workshop ( or every 2nd Thursday)Thurs. Jan. 17th: Creating & Updating Your Resume Workshop (or every 3rd Thursday)Thurs. Jan. 3rd: Labour Market Information Workshop• Resumes & Interviews: Go hand in hand, so the better prepared you are the greater the impression you will make to your future employer. Please drop in and our friendly staff will assist you.• Targeted Wage Subsidy (TWS): Are you currently on Employment Insurance or have you been in the last 3-5 years? If you have, you may be eligible for wage subsidy. Ask us for further info.• Funding for Skill Enhancement: Recent or active EI clients with a career plan in mind seeking assistance through Service Canada are required to book an appointment with one of our Employment Counsellors.• Blue River Itinerant: An employment consultant comes to town twice/mth to the Blue River School. Next visit is Thursday Jan. 17 from 12:30-3:40. If a one on one appointment is required, please call to set up a time prior to the drop in.

SPORT SHOP/BOUTIQUE MGR. – Mike Wiegele’s O1712MAINTENANCE MANAGER – Mike Wiegele’s O1712APROGRAM SUPPORT (Casual) – Interior Health O1812COOK – Part time (not suitable for student) A&W N0212BCASHIER – Part time (not suitable for students) Petro Can N0212CRCA – Casual & Permanent PT, ICS N1912

NORTH THOMPSON JOBS

Cook: FT Blue River #1205Lodge Employee & Kitchen Helper: Seasonal/Albreda #1204IT Manager: FT/Blue River #1203Breakfast Cook: Seasonal/Blue River #1202Dishwasher: Seasonal/Blue River #1201Weather Observer: FT/Blue River #1106Class 1 Driving Instructor: FT Quesnel/Williams Lake #1101Store Clerk/Cashier: Blue River #1029Line Cook: Blue River #1028Logging Truck Driver: Seasonal/Clearwater #1027Cook: Seasonal/Blue River #1019Maintenance Manager: FT/Blue River #1018Boutique Clerk: Seasonal/Blue River #1014Sandwich Maker: Seasonal/Blue River #1007Dining Room Supervisor: Seasonal/Blue River #1006Server: FT & PT/Blue River #1003Line Cook: FT & PT/Blue River #1002Housekeeping Manager: FT/Blue River #0905Housekeeper: Seasonal/Blue River #0904Fine Dining Server: Seasonal/Blue River #0903Registered Massage Therapist: Seasonal/Blue River #0901Heli-Ski Guides: 6 positions/Seasonal/Blue River #0816

SKILL DEVELOPMENT: If you have been on Employment Insurance in the past 3 years (5 years maternity) and are currently unemployed, you may be eligible for re-training dollars. Book an appointment to see one of our counselors for more information.We look forward to seeing you: come in and we’ll personally see that you get the information you’re seeking or call and make an appointment.

• Free computer and Internet access • Free resume help

• Free information on many services.

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Announcements

ObituariesWilf Mourre

May 23, 1933 - Nov. 29, 2012Former owner of Blue River Motel. Late of Qualicum Beach.

~ Sadly missed by family and friends

Cards of ThanksThank you

On behalf of Mary Surkan, daughters Brenda and Bev and their families, we would like to express our most heart-felt appreciation to each and every one of you for the genu-ine outpouring of warmth, kindness, and concern after Lloyd’s passing. We would like to thank Drake Smith, North Thompson Funeral Home for gently leading us through preparations and arrange-ments as well as Lloyd Strick-land for his spiritual guidance and for performing Lloyd’s ser-vice. Bonnie at the Well’s Gray Inn provided lovely refresh-ments at the reception which were greatly appreciated by all in attendance. Our family would also like to sincerely thank the emergency re-sponse personnel who showed such compassion and sensitivity.We found comfort in sharing Lloyd’s tribute with such won-derful people and thank every-body for helping us through this very diffi cult time. You all have truly touched our hearts!

Christmas CornerMerry Christmas

Best Wishes for 2013Rocky Ranch Ornamentals

Concrete StatuaryGift certifi cates available

250-674-6806

Announcements

Coming EventsNew Year’s Eve BullaramaBucking for the Farm KidsNew Year’s Eve, 7pm-2am

Doors Open at 6:30pm At the NT Agriplex, Barriere

Tickets available online at www.farmkidsfund.ca, the NT Star/Journal (Barriere), & the Horse Barn (Kamloops).

InformationADVERTISE in the

LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC

The 2013-2015 BC Freshwater Fishing

Regulations SynopsisThe most effective way to

reach an incredible number of BC Sportsmen & women.

Two year edition- terrifi c presence for your business.Please call Annemarie

1.800.661.6335 email:

fi [email protected]

Safe Home Response Providing a safe place to

escape for women and their children.

Volunteers always needed. Call 250-674-2135.

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY THRIFT SHOP

Located across the railway tracks in Vavenby, B.C.

Wednesday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Sunday 11a.m. - 3 p.m.

Great deals - low prices

PersonalsAlcoholics Anonymous

Phone 250-674-3838 or250-587-0026 Anytime

Barriere Alcoholics Anonymous Call: 250-672-9643For Al Anon Call:

250-672-9643, 250-819-5361, 250-308-5139 or 778-220-6269

Announcements

PersonalsClearwater: AA meetings eve-ry Wednesday, #11 Lodge Dr., side door. Roll call 8 p.m. 250-674-7155 or 250-674-7313

Lost & FoundLOST: 1 yr old orange tabby, answers to Jester. Last seen Oct 20 between Sargent Creek Rd & Glengrove Rd. Has tattoo. Call 250-672-5773

Travel

TimeshareCANCEL YOUR Timeshare. NO Risk Program, STOP Mortgage & Maintenance Pay-ments Today. 100% Money Back Guarantee. FREE Con-sultation. Call Us NOW. We Can Help! 1-888-356-5248.

TravelCONDOMINIUM HOTEL 1-2-3 bdrm condominiums 825- 1850sq ft. Convenient Beach Access, Heated Pool/Hot Tub In-room Washer/Dryer, Flat Screen TV’s, Free Wi-Fi, Pri-vate Balconies, Daily House-keeping, Handicapped Rooms Available. Weekly/Monthly Rates, Free Local Calls, Free Local Beach Transportation. Conveniently Located to Shops and Restaurants. www.crystalpalmsbeachresort.com 1-888-360-0037. 11605 Gulf Blvd. Treasure Is-land FL 33706.

HAWAII ON the Mainland, healthy low-cost living can be yours. Modern Arenal Maleku Condominiums, 24/7 secured Community, Costa Rica “friendliest country on earth”! 1-780-952-0709; www.CanTico.ca.

Employment

Business Opportunities

PYRAMID CORPORATION is now hiring! Instrument Techni-cians and Electricians for vari-ous sites across Alberta. Send resume to: [email protected] or fax 780-955-HIRE.

Career Opportunities

TRAIN TO be an Apart-ment/Condominium Manager at home! We have jobs across Canada. Thousands of gradu-ates working. 32 years of suc-cess! Government certifi ed. www.RMTI.ca or 1-800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

Employment

Drivers/Courier/Trucking

CONTRACT LOGGING Trucks Wanted! If you are a safe, reliable, and experienced driver that would like work in West Central Alberta, please call Darcy @ 403-638-6047.

Lakes District MaintenanceLtd. is looking for

Auxiliary / Seasonal Snow Plow Drivers

for November 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013

Positions available in McBride and Tête Jaune Cache. Mini-mum of Class 3 BC Drivers Licence with air endorsement or recognized equivalent re-quired. Wages and allowanc-es per collective agreement.

Apply in person at the Tête Jaune Cache Offi ce, or

to [email protected] or fax to 250-692-3930www.ldmltd.ca

Help WantedAn Alberta Construction Com-pany is hiring Dozer and Exca-vator Operators. Preference will be given to operators that are experienced in oilfi eld road and lease construction. Lodg-ing and meals provided. The work is in the vicinity of Edson, Alberta. Alcohol & Drug testing required. Call Contour Con-struction at 780-723-5051.Required for an Alberta Trucking Company. One Class 1 Driver. Must have a mini-mum of 5 years experience pulling low boys and driving off road. Candidate must be able to pass a drug test and be will-ing to relocate to Edson, Al-berta. Fax resumes to: 780-725-4430WANTED SHORT Logger and Hayrack for work till the end of March. Call 604-819-3393.

Work WantedNeed some help with those odd jobs you don’t have time for? Call Keiran Jones at 250-674-3051

Help Wanted

Employment

Work WantedHAFI GRANTS

Notice to low income seniors and persons with disability. You may qualify for a grant up to 20,000. to modify and adapt your home for improved safety and accessibility. For details contact your local HAFI expert Hans Ounpuu, Building con-tractor @ 250-674-3875.

Need your house cleaned but don’t have time? Call: Leesa Genier (250)320-3629

Services

Mind Body SpiritMystic Mountain Healing Spa

Appointments only250-674-2700

mysticmountainacres.com

Health ProductsGET 50% off - Join Herbal Magic this week and get 50% Off. Lose weight quickly, safe-ly and keep it off, proven re-sults! Call Herbal Magic today! 1-800-854-5176.

Financial Services

Reduce Debtby up to 70%

• Avoid bankruptcy• 0% Interest

250-434-4226www.4pillars.ca

• Avoid Bankruptcy• Rebuild Your Credit• Proudly Canadian

250-434-4505

IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

M O N E Y P ROV I D E R . C O M . $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.

Services

Fitness/ExerciseLIKE NEW Vata-Health Ma-chine 2 motors, oscillating and spiral vibration 60 speed levels great for strength and weight training excellent for circula-tion and lymphatic drainage less than 20 hours on machine cost $1200 new will sell for $895 Great Christmas Gift (250) 851-9276

Legal ServicesCRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certifi -cation, adoption property ren-tal opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.Dispute Resolution Services. Law suits, custody, access, property, high confl ict families & more. Court Approved, Chartered Mediators. 778-220-5930

Help Wanted

Services

Photography / VideoNeed a professional

photographer? Portraits, weddings,

special events, pet portraits, commercial.

Affordable memories that last a life-time. Seniors rates.

Book now avoid & disappointment. Sorry no passport photos

Jill Hayward250-319-8023/250-672-0055

PHOTOS by Keith McNeill

Digital and fi lm photographs.Phone 250-674-3252 or

email:[email protected]

Misc ServicesSue’s Jewellery RepairsSince 1975 - We do it all, Retipping, Sizing, Soldering.Sue Ludtke - 250-587-6357

Your community. Your classifi eds.

250.674.3343

fax 250.674.3410 email classifi [email protected]

CLASSIFIED RATES AND DEADLINEBuy a Classified in the Star/Journal

and your ad goes into the The Times FREE.

Regular Rate: 8.50 + GSTMaximum 15 words .20c per word extra

Special Rates: 3 Weeks;$22.15 + GST

Free Ads: Lost, Found, Student Work WantedFree ads maximum 15 words will run 2 consecutive weeks.

Happy Occasions:Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, etc. 1 column by 3 inch - $18.49 + GSTDeadlines:Word Ads: Mondays 5pmDisplay Ads: Mondays 12pm

It is the policy of The Star/Journal and The Times to receive pre-payment on all classified advertisements.Ads may be submitted by phone if charged to a VISA, MC or an existing account.

CHECK YOUR AD! Notice of error must be given in time for correction before the second insertion of any advertisement. The paper will not be responsible for omissions or for more than one incorrect insertion, or for damages or costs beyond the cost of the space actually occupied by the error.Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of ads which discriminate against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, national-ity, ancestry or place of origin or age, unless the condition is justifi ed by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.Readers; in ads where ‘male’ is referred to, please read also as ‘female’ and where ‘female’ is used, read also ‘male’.NOTE: When ordering items out of province, the purchaser is responsible to pay provincial sales tax. Do not send money in response to an advertisement without confi rming the credentials of that business, and be aware that some telephone num-bers will be charged for by the minute

Ph: 250.674.3343 • Fax: 250.674.3410

Office Hours: Mon. to Thurs. • 9am - 5pm, Fri. • 9am - 12pmBrookfi eld Mall, Clearwater

TH

E

NORTH THOMPSON

ET

HE

NORTH THOMPSON

Times

Buy a Classified in the Timesand your ad goes into the Barriere Star/Journal FREE.

SHOP ONLINE...

bcclassified.comAnytime!

FIND EVERYTHING YOUNEED IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

A18 www.clearwatertimes.com Thursday, December 27, 2012 North Thompson Times

PUBLIC NOTICECommittee Appointments

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District invites applications from persons interested in serving the Regional District on various Committees. The positions are strictly voluntary in nature, with only expenses payable. Applicants must reside or own property in the service area administered by the Committee. Appointments will be made at a future Board of Directors meeting, and all terms will expire on December 31, 2013, with any exceptions noted.

Persons interested are requested to forward a brief resume indicating the committee on which they wish to serve, as well as why they are interested in such an appointment, by Friday, January 4, 2013.

For information on the TNRD Committees, please visit www.tnrd.ca or contact Liz Cornwell, Corporate Offi cer / Manager of Legislative Services

#300, 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A9Phone (250) 377-8673/1-877-377-8673 (toll free in BC)

Email: [email protected]

THOMPSON-NICOLAREGIONAL DISTRICT

FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY

February 19– March 20

January 20– February 18

December 22– January 19

May 21– June 21

April 20– May 20

August 23– September 22

July 23– August 22

November 22– December 21

October 23– November 21

March 21– April 19

June 22– July 22

September 23– October 22

A p r i l 2 3 - 2 9 , 2 0 1 2

This week is all about give and take, Capricorn. Do for others, and they will do for you. A special event calls for some extra-special gifts.

Some habits are hard to break, Aquarius. Look to a mentor to help and you will succeed. A fitness goal is easily achieved with a new piece of equipment.

The odds may be stacked against you, Pisces, but that doesn’t mean you won’t come out on top with a little ingenuity. A weekend endeavor requires a leap of faith.

Speak up, Aries, and the problem will be solved. A little miracle at home makes for an interesting weekend. Travel plans come together.

Cast aside all doubt, Taurus. The offer is genuine and will bring you many rewards. A test of faith begins— be strong. Money woes ease.

Feeling blessed these days, Gemini? Pay it forward. A compromise at home raises everyone’s spirits and fun ensues all weekend long!

A business relationship blossoms with an addition. A larger-than- life personality drops by with an offer you can’t refuse. Oh boy, oh boy, Cancer.

Oops, Leo. You fall behind on a project, raising some eyebrows. Not to worry. You will get back on track sooner than you think, thanks to an innovation.

Spend less, save more and you’ll definitely get more, Virgo. More in your bottom line and more peace of mind. Flowers provide a great pick-me-up.

Lady Luck smiles on you, Libra, and there is nothing beyond your reach. A treasured heirloom resurfaces, bringing back many fond memories.

The tiniest of changes make a vast improvement in a project. A rejection is a blessing in disguise. Be grateful for what you’re given, Scorpio.

News from afar gets the creative juices flowing, and you accomplish more than you have in some time, Sagittarius. A game of wits at the office proves challenging.

Dec. 27/12 - Jan. 2/13

Both social and business communi-cation require some tact this week, Ar-ies. You can handle it, and you should be prepared to meet some interesting people.

Cancer, this week you could gain the attention of people in high positions. Use the opportu-nity to get your best points heard if you have the chance.

Libra, you will show leadership in your profession over the next several days. This also will extend into your personal life, where you may have more energy in home affairs.

Capricorn, your feel-ings of restlessness might be because you’re not ac-customed to sitting still for too long. You will think of ways to fill the time.

Broaden your social contacts, Aquarius, and this way you will extend your professional reach as well. There always are opportunities for networking.

Taurus, your con-fidence and energy are strong, but you seem to be having difficulty sitting still for enough time to get a handle on other people’s opin-ions and viewpoints.

Leo, this should be one of those glorious weeks when you have the feeling that everything is mov-ing along smoothly and according to your master plan.

Scorpio, indulge your curiosities, as your imagination and creativity are very high. Projects that require artistic work or writing should be the top priority on your list.

You may find that needs at home quickly drain you of any energy, Pisces. Simplify your routine to find some relief.

New options present themselves that are excellent for educational pursuits, Gemini. Friends will be supportive of any ideas that you devise, even if they seem a little off-center.

Virgo, your confi-dence is high and there is just about nothing that you fear or think you cannot handle this week. Float along on these feelings of euphoria for a while.

Sagittarius, this is a good week to explore new busi-ness opportunities. Apply your efforts to solving some complex problems that others have shied away from.

This Crossword Sponsored by

WELLS GRAY HOME HARDWARE86 STATION RD., CLEARWATER

674-3717

Legal Notices

Pets & Livestock

PetsGood Dog Obedience Spring

Classes Starting in Feb.!Basic Obedience - A 6 week course in good manners & ca-nine behaviour begins Thurs-day, Feb. 7, 6:30pm at the Fall Fair Hall in Barriere for all dogs at least 6 months old & up. Cost $100.Novice Class - 6 weeks of fun as we take you & your dog to the next level of obedient behaviour. Participants must have successfully completed a previous Basic Obedience course to qualify. Class starts on Thursday, Feb. 7, 7:30pm. Cost $100.To register or for more infor-mation contact Jill Hayward at 250-319-8023

Merchandise for Sale

AppliancesReconditioned washers & dryers, fridges & stoves. All in good condition. Call 250-674-0079

Firewood/FuelFirewood for sale, $100/truck-load (about 2/3 cord). Will prune backyard fruit trees. 250-677-4266

Heavy Duty Machinery

A- STEEL SHIPPING STORAGE CONTAINERS /

Bridges / EquipmentWheel loaders JD 644E & 544A / 63’ & 90’ Stiff boom 5th wheel crane trucks/Excavators EX200-5 & 892D-LC / Small forklifts / F350 C/C “Cabs”20’40’45’53’ New/ Used/ Damaged /Containers Semi Trailers for Hiway & Storage-Call 24 Hrs 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for SaleAT LAST! An iron fi lter that works. IronEater! Fully patent-ed Canada/U.S.A. Removes iron, hardness, smell, manga-nese. Sine 1957. Visit our 29 innovative inventions; w w w. b i g i r o n d r i l l i n g . c o m . Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON.BIG BUILDING sale... “”This is a clearance sale. You don’t want to miss!”” 20x20 $3,985. 25x24 $4,595. 30x36 $6,859. 35x48 $11,200. 40x52 $13,100. 47x76 $18,265. One end wall included. Call Pioneer Steel at: 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca

Merchandise for Sale

Misc. for SaleFor Sale

9’ x 12’ High Quality Electric Screen with remote control.

$1500.00 oboUsed for one seminar.

Contact: Dave 250-674-3468

or Bob 250-674-3695

GREAT GIFT IDEA! Chill-Spot is The COOLEST Dog Bed-A new and innovative, thermodynamically cooled dog bed, that enhances the cool tile surfaces our pets rely on during the warm weather months. Use promo code COOLGIFT For 10 % off! www.chillspot.bizHOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/news-paper?Single hide-a-bed $75. 2 gray sittingroom chairs $50/ea ($90 both). 1 entertainment ctr $50. Oak diningroom table w/4 chairs $525. 250-672-9989STEEL BUILDINGS/metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for bal-ance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Misc. WantedUsed Postage Stamps

Support International Scouting by donating used stamps which are sorted & sold to raise money for the International Develop-ment Fund of the International Scout & Guide Fellowship. This fund pays for training for Scout-ers in the third world.Drop stamps off at front counter of the Star/Journal in Barriere, or call Margaret at (250)672-9330.

Real Estate

Houses For SaleThompson-Crossing.com

121 Ferry Road, BlackpoolClearwater, B.C.

A NEW BEGINNING!For further information please

Call 250-587-6151

Other Areas20 ACRES Free! Buy 40-Get 60 acres. $0-Down, $168/mo. Money back guarantee. No credit checks. Beautiful views. Roads surveyed. Near El Pa-so, Texas. 1-800-843-7537 www.sunsetranches.com

Rentals

Apt/Condo for RentClearwater: Woodside Apt. Clean, renovated, 1 bdrm. Close to library & medical cen-tre. Winter plug-ins. NS/NP Ph. 250-674-0220

Modular HomesClearwater: Very attractive 2 bdrm Modular Hm. Incl all appl, hobby rm, covered front entry, storage shed. Location: site #24 Thompson Crossing. $800/mo + DD. Avail Jan 1. 250-587-6151

Homes for RentClearwater: 2bdrm home lo-cated at 908 Clearwater Vil-lage Rd. Avail Jan. 1. Fully renovated. Incl 6 appl, heat pump & a/c, secure storage shed. $1000/mo. Incl util. Ph 250-674-8552 or 250-674-1059. [email protected]: 5+ bdrm, 3+acre hobby farm for rent. Avail Jan. 1. Call Randy 250-674-8288Vavenby: Spacious 3 bdrm home. On half acre. $750/mo Call Randy 250-674-8288

Transportation

Auto Financing

DreamTeam Auto Financing“0” Down, Bankruptcy OK -

Cash Back ! 15 min Approvals1-800-961-7022

www.iDreamAuto.com DL# 7557

Cars - Domestic1997 Ford Mustang con-vertible, 64km, new studded tires, 4 summers. $8000 fi rm. 778-257-3535

Legal Notices

Transportation

Cars - DomesticLOOKING FOR A DEALON A NEW VEHICLE?

Save up to 40% OFF your next new vehicle...

No games or gimmicks, dealdirect with local dealerships.

www.newcarselloff.com

No qr code reader?

Text info: 778.786.8271

Recreational/Sale1983 Triple E, 22’ motorhome. Top good. 6.2 diesel engine. All appliances. $2500 obo. 250-672-9258

Sport Utility Vehicle2000 Blazer, 250000kms, V6, Navy Blue, new windshield, new tires. 250-672-5814

Legal Notices


18 -19Obituary

IN LOVING MEMORYAgnes MacGregor

1941 - 2012Agnes MacGregor of

Blackpool, BC, passed away on December 17, 2012 at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital, Clearwater, B.C., after a brave struggle with can-cer. Born in Livelong, Saskatchewan on November 27, 1941, Agnes is survived by her husband of 30 years, Alex; son Kevin (Sherri); grandchil-dren Ryan, Shawn and Jennifer; sisters Mary (George) Clarkson, Tena (Albert) Peters, Sarah Thiessen, Liz (Lawrence) Paul, Susanne (Lyle) Scott, and Ann (Richard) Evans; brothers Herman (Dolores) Kessler, John (Janice) Thiessen and Jake (Linda) Thiessen, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

For over thirty years, Agnes worked at Canada Post

in Vancouver and Langley, BC, before retiring with Alex to the North Thompson val-ley. She became a member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Clearwater, where she loved playing darts on Friday nights with Alex and their friends. She also enjoyed carpet bowl-ing with friends at Evergreen

Acres in Clearwater. Agnes loved the outdoors, espe-cially fishing and grouse hunting.

Donations in memory of Agnes MacGregor to the Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital, 640 Park Road, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N1, would be appreciated.

Funeral Services for Agnes MacGregor will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 28, 2012 in the Chapel at North Thompson Funeral Services, 73

Taren Drive, Clearwater, BC. Interment to follow at Riverview Cemetery, Clearwater, BC. Mr. Lloyd Strickland to officiate. The service may be viewed online, and condolences sent to the family, by visiting www.NorthThompsonFuneral.com.

Safety tips for the holidaysCanada Safety Council

Safety is always in season. Here are some simple, timely tips and reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe over the holidays!

The Christmas tree• If you’re getting a live tree, check

for freshness by tapping it on the ground. Dropping needles indicate a dry, highly flammable tree, so look for a fresher tree instead. Needles should be hard to pull from branches and shouldn’t break when bent between your fingers.

• Place your live tree away from fireplaces, woodstoves and radiators. Also, indoor heat dries out fresh trees, so be sure to replenish the tree-stand with water every day.

• If buying an artificial tree, make sure it has a label indicating that it is fire resistant. Although this does not mean the tree won’t catch fire, the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.

• If you are using tinsel, try to keep it toward the top of the tree, out of reach of pets and small children. Tinsel can be dangerous if ingested.

Lights• Use Canadian Standards

Association (CSA) approved lights. Place indoor and outdoor lights in their respective environments.

• New or old, check light strings for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out damaged sets. Make sure you do this inspection before putting lights up. It is much easier and safer to replace bulbs or entire strands of lights on the ground than on the roof.

• Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.

• Don’t overload electrical sockets, and never string more than three sets of lights per single extension cord.

The fireplace• Make sure the chimney damper

is open and clean before you light a fire.

Remove all decorations that could

be burned around the fireplace.• Do not burn wrapping papers in

the fireplace. A flash fire may result, as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

• Keep a working fire extinguisher in an accessible location.

• Check your smoke detectors once a month, and replace the bat-tery twice a year.

• Have a carbon monoxide detec-tor installed near each sleeping area in the house.

Holiday entertaining• Regardless of whether you are a

guest or the host, make sure everyone has a safe ride home.

• If you are hosting, choose not to drink, or limit your alcohol con-sumption so you can be aware of how much your guests are drinking.

Greet all guests on arrival and departure, taking the opportunity to assess their condition. Remember that impairment goes beyond alco-hol – it can include drugs, fatigue or emotional distress.

• When preparing for the big din-ner, defrost the turkey in the refrig-erator – not at room temperature.

• Don’t leave perishable foods at room temperature for more than two hours.

Candles• Keep candles away from drapes,

trees or any other potentially flam-mable objects. Make sure they are placed on a steady surface.

• Never leave burning candles unattended.

General• In your vehicle, do not leave

parcels and packages in plain view. Lock all valuables in the trunk!

• At home, packaging from expensive items – such as a big-screen TV – should be discarded carefully, so as not to alert would-be thieves of valuables in your house. Cardboard boxes should be bundled to conceal the nature of the contents when put out to be recycled.

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

ADVERTISERS!It’s been 136 years since Alexander Graham

Bell first invented the telephone in 1876.

And guess what?

It’s still the best way for your customers to find you and give you their business.

Ph 250-672-5611and reserve your space.

Ph 250-674-3343and reserve your space.

Ad Deadline: January 28, 2013

Publication Date: February 28, 2013

Don’t miss out on the 17th annual

North Thompson Telephone Directory

and keep that business phone

ringing all year long!

SELL

IT FAS

TSE

LL IT

FAST

SELL

IT FAS

T

Call and book your ad in the North Thompson Connection and

SELL YOUR PROPERTY FAST5” x 3“ for just $69 call 250- 672-5611 or250-674-3343

FOR SALE BY OWNER


(NewsCanada) - Most people know that drinking excessively during preg-nancy can harm an unborn baby. But what they may not realize is that a woman doesn’t have to be a heavy drinker for her baby to experience nega-tive long-term effects.

Current research indicates there is no proven safe level of alcohol consump-tion during pregnancy. Consuming alcohol of any kind - including beer, wine, coolers or spirits - during preg-nancy is linked to permanent brain damage, low birth weight, birth defects and developmental delays.

There is also no safe time to drink alcohol when pregnant. The brain and central nervous system of an unborn child can be damaged by exposure to

alcohol at any time leading up to birth.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

(FASD) is the term used to describe the range of defects and disabilities that are caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. Children with FASD often suffer from learning disabilities, difficulty managing anger, hyperactivity and poor judg-ment. These can lead to problems with the law, unemployment, homelessness or alcohol and drug abuse later in life.

Here’s the good news - FASD is pre-ventable, and help is available.

• Get involved. Each year on Sept. 9, people in communities around the world organize local events to raise awareness of the dangers of drinking during pregnancy. Planning resources are available at www.fasworld.com

• Encourage an alcohol-free preg-nancy. You can support a partner, family member or friend to reduce or eliminate her alcohol intake during pregnancy:

1. Join her in having a non-alcoholic drink

2. Have non-alcoholic drinks avail-able at parties.

3. Get together in people’s homes or at coffee shops rather than in bars.

4. Don’t ever suggest that “just one little drink” will do no harm.

• Be safe. If you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy, it is safest not to drink any alcohol. More information is available at www.alcoholfreepreg-nancy.ca or by calling Motherisk at 1-877-FAS-INFO (1-877-327-4636).

Ministry of Health

VICTORIA Did you know

that as we age we become more sensi-tive to the effects of alcohol? The amount of alco-hol we were once able to consume safely decreases, and drinking can have additional and seri-ous consequences.

The Province has released a brochure and web-based information to pro-vide guidance on

low risk drinking for seniors. These are available at: www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alcohol.

“We are hoping British Columbians realize that as they age, their bodies treat alcohol dif-ferently and this can have a greater effect on their lives,” said Ron Cantelon, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health.

“This new bro-chure acts as a guide by highlighting some of the adjust-ments we need to be aware of as we age in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Brochures may

be ordered by call-ing the Health and Seniors Information Line toll-free at 1 800 465-4911.

Alcohol can cause a number of health problems. Too much alcohol can contribute to chronic diseases, including cancer and some heart con-ditions. Almost half of all prescription drugs taken by older people can interact with alcohol. Even the smallest amount of alcohol could negatively impact the effectiveness of medications.

Alcohol-related problems in older adults can be mis-taken for physical,

social or emotional conditions associ-ated with aging. Problem drinking can place a major burden on families and the health-care system. While there are supports for older adults, it is always a good idea for family and friends to watch for signs that drinking could be a problem.

For more infor-mation on alcohol and aging, visit:

www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alco-hol

To receive bro-chures on alcohol and aging, as well as additional support, call the Health and Seniors Information

Line at 1 800 465-4911 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (excluding holi-days).

For alcohol and drug information, referral services and counselling, call the Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service 24/7 at 1 800 663-1441.

To speak to a registered nurse about any of your health concerns, call HealthLinkBC 24/7 at 8-1-1, or 7-1-1 for the hearing impaired.

For tips on how to be healthy at any age, visit: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca

20 - 21

If you DRINKDON’T DRIVE

Help promote alcohol-free pregnancies

Know the facts on alcohol and aging

250-674-3122Brookfield Centre Mall • Clearwater

Drink in moderation this season, and in the event you are too intoxicated to get behind

the wheel, give your keys to someone else, catch a ride with

another person or call a cab.

Thompson Nicola Regional District

Wells Gray Director

Tim Pennell1-877-377-8673

[email protected]

Be Smart . . . don’t drink & drive

Willow MacdonaldDIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “B”

(THOMPSON HEADWATERS)Phone: 250-674-7303


300 - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada V2C 2A9Tel: (250) 377-8673Fax: (250) 372-5048

Toll Free: 1-877-377-8673 (B.C. Only)Email: [email protected]

Willow MacdonaldDIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “B”

(THOMPSON HEADWATERS)Phone: 250-674-7303


300 - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada V2C 2A9Tel: (250) 377-8673Fax: (250) 372-5048

Toll Free: 1-877-377-8673 (B.C. Only)Email: [email protected]

Find a safe way home this holiday season

86 Station Rd., Clearwater

8:30 - 5:30, Mon. - Sat. 250-674-3717

E C OEpp Cates Oien

Barristers & Solicitors

Old Fire Hall No. 1300 - 125 4th Avenue

Kamloops, BC V2C 3N3Toll Free:

1-800-949-3362 (BC)

Telephone: 250-372-8811

Fax: 250-828-6697Email:

[email protected]

Have a Safe Holiday Season Don’t drink & drive

Clearwater Times, December 27, 2012

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Transcript of Clearwater Times, December 27, 2012