Clearwater Times, December 10, 2015

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Thursday, December 10, 2015 ▼ Volume 51 No. 50 ▼ www.clearwatertimes.com ▼ $1.35 Includes GST

LOCAL NEWS: COUNTERATTACK BEGINS ▼ A9T

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A NEW POPE?:Smoke signals new heating. See A3 inside.

Rebels in � rst placeClearwater Peewee Rebel #10 Devin Green takes the puck away from a 100 Mile House player during one of two games at the Sportsplex on Saturday. The Rebels won both of their games against the 100 Mile 1 team (100 Mile has two teams in the league). Score for the first game was 20-3 and for the second was 16-2. The local team is first in its league and unbeaten in league play so far this season. A few weeks ago, the Rebels took second place in a tournament in Lumby. Next Saturday the team travels to 100 Mile to play the 100 Mile 1 team, then will have a few weeks off. The Rebels have 10 games still left in the season to play in the new year.Photo by Keith McNeill

Food bank gets helpMayor John Harwood (l) presents a $1,000 cheque from District of Clearwa-ter council and staff to Harry James of Clearwater and District Food Bank. The donation was just one of several made during a community concert held at Dutch Lake Community Centre on Saturday evening, Dec. 5. For more about the concert, see next week’s issue.Photo by Keith McNeill

Meeting Saint NickLegend Christensen tells Santa Claus what she wants for Christmas during Christmas Tree Light-Up at the Infocentre on Sunday evening, Dec. 6. Close to 100 people turned out for carol singing, tree decorating, cookie-making and other activities. For more photos, see page A11 inside and next week's Christmas stories issue.Photo by Keith McNeill

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 10, 2015 www.clearwatertimes.com A3

2 - 3Biomass heater saves on propane billsKeith McNeill

“That heat feels beauti-ful.”

That was how Mayor John Harwood described the output produced by District of Clearwater's new bio-mass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre

An official opening for the heater was held Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The project was another example of how developing partnerships is moving the community forward, said Harwood.

Partners that contrib-uted included Wells Gray Community Forest, which gave the municipality a $100,000 interest-free loan, and Canfor-Vavenby, which is donating the chips needed to feed the heater at no cost.

“What a contribution to the taxpayers. That's commu-nity partnership,” Harwood said of Canfor's donation.

Fink Machine of Enderby was the project's main con-tractor.

Local contractors involved included NEST Timberhomes, which con-structed the building housing the unit.

The provincial govern-ment's WoodWaste2 Rural Heat project provided money to help pay for a preliminary review of biomass heating systems for Clearwater in 2013.

A request for proposal went out in 2014 and the contract to design, build and install the system at DLCC was awarded to Fink Machine Incorporated. Financial assistance came from Wells Gray Community Forest, federal Gas Tax and Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition.

Total cost of the proj-ect was about $270,000. Estimated payback time is five to eight years.

Inquiries have been made to see if the RCMP is interested in connecting the Clearwater detachment office building to the DLCC bio-mass heater but, as yet, no

decision has been reached.Clearwater council has

expressed an interest in installing a biomass heater at the North Thompson Sportsplex.

The new biomass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre produces only a whiff of smoke.

(L-r) Ted Richardson from Wells Gray Community Forest, Canfor-Vavenby division manager Steve Planeta, Mayor John Harwood and Stephen Bearss of Fink Machine in Enderby cut the ribbon to officially open the new biomass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre on Dec. 1. Photos by Keith McNeill

School district head says teachers need to work through problems and learn new systemDale Bass – Kamloops This Week

Kamloops-Thompson school district superintendent Karl deBruijn is frustrated with the union representing the region’s teachers.

While he can’t stop the Kamloops-Thompson Teachers’ Association (KTTA) from sending a letter to par-ents — the union won an arbi-tration ruling giving it freedom of speech to do so — deBruijn is unhappy with the contents, with the KTTA complaining about the new reporting sys-tem teachers must use.

The provincial government brought in the new system, My Education B.C., to replace a discontinued software pro-gram teachers use to do report cards.

The KTTA has complained to the district the new system is hard to use, cumbersome and a challenge to learn.

“You know, every day, our teachers go into classrooms

and teach their students new things,” deBruijn said. “And it can be hard for some of them, but we tell our students to just work through it and we help them learn it. We have five full-time people working to help teachers learn this pro-gram.

“Little Jimmy says math is hard and we tell him yes, it is, but you need to work through it and yes, we’ll help you learn it.”

DeBruijn added that, much like in the class setting, the district is offering after-school help sessions for teachers, not-ing “they are poorly attended.”

The letter the KTTA wants to send to parents states the new system has “numerous glitches and faults that have not been resolved to date. ... We have worked hard to com-plete reports on this program, but want you to know that the inadequacies of the program have limited us in our ability to communicate with you to the degree that we would like.”

DeBruijn said secondary teachers learned the new pro-gram last year and were able to send out the mandatory three report cards during the school year.

He acknowledged there have been some issues with the program and said the provider has addressed them. The district has also pushed back the deadline to issue a first report card from the end of November to before Christmas.

DeBruijn also noted admin-istration has had to adjust to new systems affecting all of its business, from human resourc-es to accounting.

“It was hard work. We had people in on weekends work-ing on it and I never heard the kind of complaining I’m hear-ing from the KTTA,” deBruijn said.

“Change is hard, but we’re teachers. We should be leading the way. We should be model-ling and leading the way and not carrying on like that.”

Jeremy FontaineOctober 1988 - December 2007

Dear Son in HeavenI sit and ponder how very much

I’d like to talk with you each day,There are so many thingsThat we didn’t get to say.

I know how much you care for meAnd how much I care for you,

And each time that I think of youI know you’ll miss me too.

An angel came and took you by the hand, and saidYour place was ready in Heaven, far above…

And you had to leave behind, all those you dearly lovedYou had so much to live for; you had so much to do…

It still seems impossible that God has taken you.And though your life on earth is past, in Heaven it starts anew

You’ll live for all eternity, just as God has promised you.And though you’ve walked through Heaven’s Gate

We are never far apartFor every time I think of you,

You’re right here, deep with-in my heart.MOMMA LOVES YOU JEREMY

INFINITY & BEYONDXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Right now I’m in a di� erent place and though we seem apart I’m closer than I ever was

... I’m there inside your heartI’m with you when you greet each day

and while the sun shines bright I’m there to share the sunsets, too

... I’m with you every nightI’m with you when the times are good

to share a laugh or two, and if a tear should start to fall

... I’ll still be there for youAnd when that day arrives that we no longer are apart,

I’ll smile and hold you close to me ... Forever in my heart

LOVE ALWAYS & FOREVERMOM, DAD, JEAN-MARC AND ALL YOUR

FAMILY AND FRIENDS XOXOXOXO

Missing YouNo words I write could ever say,

How sad and empty I feel each today.

The Angels came for youMuch sooner than I planned,

I’ll brave the bitter grief that comesAnd I’ll try my best to understand.

Jeremy, why did you have to go away,Why wasn’t it right for you to stay.

I LOVE YOU DEARLY.

In my heart you will always be, I know that you are watching over me.

Our spirit’s hand in hand.

What I’m su� ering seems so unfairbut one thing is for certain

my love for you will always be there.

Jeremy, my son you always will forever beThe most important part of my memories,

from the day we were torn apartAll I have now is you in my heart.

A space in my head, empty and blackA thousand words won’t bring you back.

I miss you now, my heart is sore,As time goes by I miss you more,

Your loving smile, your gentle face,No one can � ll your vacant place.

Now you’re up in HeavenWith the Angels up above

they will take my place for nowand they’ll give you all their love.

So go and rest in peace nowMy Young Man so dear

for all my LOVE & MEMORIESI will hold forever near.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

10 Days in Decembera memoir by Eleanor Deckert

is available for purchase at these locations:Valemount: � e Gathering Tree

Blue River: Wiegele Ski ShopAvola: Avola Service Station

Log Inn PubBirch Island: Dee’s General Store

Clearwater: Forest HouseAboriginal Centre

Hospital Gi� CornerBarriere: Armour Mountain Art Gallery

Kamloops: St. Joseph Books @ 3rd & Nicola

on-line orders at www.eleanordeckert.com

a memoir by Eleanor Deckert

on-line orders at www.eleanordeckert.com

To arrange a test call a nurse at: 1-866-778-7736

Find out more about HIV at:

Confidential HIV testing is available; ask your doctor and if you’re offered the test, say yes.

Take care of you for usTake care of you for usTake care of you for us

My Health is

After many years together, we’re still going strong. We’re well because we take care of each other’s health.” –Dr. Evan Adams, Chief Medical Officer, First Nations Health Authority

A2 www.clearwatertimes.com Thursday, December 10, 2015 Clearwater Times

Kamloops This Week

United Way of the Thompson-Nicola-Cariboo has launched a community fundraising campaign to help Syrian refugees settle in the region.

Money raised through United for Refugees will support Refugees and Friends Together with 12 months of support, including housing, food and connections to supports such as health care and employment services.

It will also support Kamloops Immigrant Services, which will be

offering services to the families.“One of our national focus areas

is Strong Communities and we are committed to helping ensure our communities are prepared and able to welcome Syrian refugees and they have adequate supports required to adapt and thrive in Canada,” said Danalee Baker, exec-utive director of the local United Way.

United Way will be matching donations to United for Refugees up to $10,000. Donations are now being accepted online at unitedway-tnc.ca/refugees.

2 - 3

Youngsters (l-r) Asia Lacha-pelle, Nixon Lachapelle and Ruthy Macdonald check out Blue River's new fire truck recently. The 2016 Freight-liner can pump 1,050 gallons per minute. It arrived in late November. The residents of the community faced being unable to get affordable fire insurance because the fire departments two previous pumpers were too old to be certified, and so they agreed to borrow money to buy the new vehicle.Photo by Willow MacDonald

United Way starts fundraising campaign for Syrian refugees

Blue River gets new fire truck

DeBruijn to step down as SD73 superintendentKamloops This Week

The Kamloops-Thompson school dis-trict (School District 73) is looking for a new superintendent.

Karl deBruijn announced during the board of education meeting on Monday,

Nov. 23 that he will be retiring effective July 1, 2016.

DeBruijn took the job at the end of July 2014 when his prede-cessor, Terry Sullivan, retired.

At the time, deBruijn said then he was taking the job for the short term.

DeBruin had been an assistant superin-tendent with School District 73 for 11 years and has worked with the district for 39 years, starting as an elementary-school teacher, later becoming a principal and eventu-ally taking on various administrative roles.

Read us on facebook @ www.clearwatertimes


2 - 3Biomass heater saves on propane billsKeith McNeill

“That heat feels beauti-ful.”

That was how Mayor John Harwood described the output produced by District of Clearwater's new bio-mass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre

An official opening for the heater was held Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The project was another example of how developing partnerships is moving the community forward, said Harwood.

Partners that contrib-uted included Wells Gray Community Forest, which gave the municipality a $100,000 interest-free loan, and Canfor-Vavenby, which is donating the chips needed to feed the heater at no cost.

“What a contribution to the taxpayers. That's commu-nity partnership,” Harwood said of Canfor's donation.

Fink Machine of Enderby was the project's main con-tractor.

Local contractors involved included NEST Timberhomes, which con-structed the building housing the unit.

The provincial govern-ment's WoodWaste2 Rural Heat project provided money to help pay for a preliminary review of biomass heating systems for Clearwater in 2013.

A request for proposal went out in 2014 and the contract to design, build and install the system at DLCC was awarded to Fink Machine Incorporated. Financial assistance came from Wells Gray Community Forest, federal Gas Tax and Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition.

Total cost of the proj-ect was about $270,000. Estimated payback time is five to eight years.

Inquiries have been made to see if the RCMP is interested in connecting the Clearwater detachment office building to the DLCC bio-mass heater but, as yet, no

decision has been reached.Clearwater council has

expressed an interest in installing a biomass heater at the North Thompson Sportsplex.

The new biomass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre produces only a whiff of smoke.

(L-r) Ted Richardson from Wells Gray Community Forest, Canfor-Vavenby division manager Steve Planeta, Mayor John Harwood and Stephen Bearss of Fink Machine in Enderby cut the ribbon to officially open the new biomass heater at Dutch Lake Community Centre on Dec. 1. Photos by Keith McNeill

School district head says teachers need to work through problems and learn new systemDale Bass – Kamloops This Week

Kamloops-Thompson school district superintendent Karl deBruijn is frustrated with the union representing the region’s teachers.

While he can’t stop the Kamloops-Thompson Teachers’ Association (KTTA) from sending a letter to par-ents — the union won an arbi-tration ruling giving it freedom of speech to do so — deBruijn is unhappy with the contents, with the KTTA complaining about the new reporting sys-tem teachers must use.

The provincial government brought in the new system, My Education B.C., to replace a discontinued software pro-gram teachers use to do report cards.

The KTTA has complained to the district the new system is hard to use, cumbersome and a challenge to learn.

“You know, every day, our teachers go into classrooms

and teach their students new things,” deBruijn said. “And it can be hard for some of them, but we tell our students to just work through it and we help them learn it. We have five full-time people working to help teachers learn this pro-gram.

“Little Jimmy says math is hard and we tell him yes, it is, but you need to work through it and yes, we’ll help you learn it.”

DeBruijn added that, much like in the class setting, the district is offering after-school help sessions for teachers, not-ing “they are poorly attended.”

The letter the KTTA wants to send to parents states the new system has “numerous glitches and faults that have not been resolved to date. ... We have worked hard to com-plete reports on this program, but want you to know that the inadequacies of the program have limited us in our ability to communicate with you to the degree that we would like.”

DeBruijn said secondary teachers learned the new pro-gram last year and were able to send out the mandatory three report cards during the school year.

He acknowledged there have been some issues with the program and said the provider has addressed them. The district has also pushed back the deadline to issue a first report card from the end of November to before Christmas.

DeBruijn also noted admin-istration has had to adjust to new systems affecting all of its business, from human resourc-es to accounting.

“It was hard work. We had people in on weekends work-ing on it and I never heard the kind of complaining I’m hear-ing from the KTTA,” deBruijn said.

“Change is hard, but we’re teachers. We should be leading the way. We should be model-ling and leading the way and not carrying on like that.”

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Kamloops This Week

United Way of the Thompson-Nicola-Cariboo has launched a community fundraising campaign to help Syrian refugees settle in the region.

Money raised through United for Refugees will support Refugees and Friends Together with 12 months of support, including housing, food and connections to supports such as health care and employment services.

It will also support Kamloops Immigrant Services, which will be

offering services to the families.“One of our national focus areas

is Strong Communities and we are committed to helping ensure our communities are prepared and able to welcome Syrian refugees and they have adequate supports required to adapt and thrive in Canada,” said Danalee Baker, exec-utive director of the local United Way.

United Way will be matching donations to United for Refugees up to $10,000. Donations are now being accepted online at unitedway-tnc.ca/refugees.

2 - 3

Youngsters (l-r) Asia Lacha-pelle, Nixon Lachapelle and Ruthy Macdonald check out Blue River's new fire truck recently. The 2016 Freight-liner can pump 1,050 gallons per minute. It arrived in late November. The residents of the community faced being unable to get affordable fire insurance because the fire departments two previous pumpers were too old to be certified, and so they agreed to borrow money to buy the new vehicle.Photo by Willow MacDonald

United Way starts fundraising campaign for Syrian refugees

Blue River gets new fire truck

DeBruijn to step down as SD73 superintendentKamloops This Week

The Kamloops-Thompson school dis-trict (School District 73) is looking for a new superintendent.

Karl deBruijn announced during the board of education meeting on Monday,

Nov. 23 that he will be retiring effective July 1, 2016.

DeBruijn took the job at the end of July 2014 when his prede-cessor, Terry Sullivan, retired.

At the time, deBruijn said then he was taking the job for the short term.

DeBruin had been an assistant superin-tendent with School District 73 for 11 years and has worked with the district for 39 years, starting as an elementary-school teacher, later becoming a principal and eventu-ally taking on various administrative roles.



The world's � rst climate change refugees are coming from Syria

guest editorial by Mike Robinson

Opinion“ No matter how bad things are, they can always be worse. So what if

my stroke left me with a speech impediment? Moses had one, and he did all right.” - Kirk Douglas, actor

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, ,PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Stranded traveller appreciates help

VANCOUVER/Troy Media/ - Canada has an opportunity to once again be known as a nation of small towns with big hearts greeting the world's first "envi-ronmental refugees".

Get ready Canada for a reinvigora-tion of the Nanaimos, Medicine Hats, North Battlefords, Selkirks, Thunder Bays, Rimouskis, Monctons, Dartmouths, Summersides, and Ganders as choice destinations for displaced persons fleeing chaos around the world.

Clearly, large segments of the global population are on the move, and some of them are being displaced by climate change.

A sea of displaced walkers and boat-ers arc north-westward to Europe from northern Africa, Syria and Iraq. The U.S. leadership debates leading up to the primaries discuss the tens of thousands of Mexican nationals who are seeking an American haven. And a stream of youth from Central America are hitch-hiking up through Mexico to the Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California borders.

There are 19.5 million refugees in the world today, according to Citizenship and Immigration. Their homelands are characterized as "war-torn countries," and many are said to have experienced "unthinkable horrors." The government website's underlying premise is that politi-cal conflicts create refugee movements.

Only about 100,000 can be resettled each year, and Canada has recently been taking about 10,000 of those. As of Sept. 15, Canada has resettled 22,405 Iraqi ref-ugees since 2009. We have resettled 2,563 Syrian refugees as of Oct. 5, but now we are committing to resettle a further 25,000 by early 2016. This is a noble goal.

As Canadians, we should be proud of our values of compassion and fairness that underlie our actions of both refugee protection and resettlement assistance. We should also be aware that the causes of refugee status are changing.

No less a humanitarian than Prince Charles (Reuters: Nov. 23) is signalling that we should consider that the Syrian civil war is caused by climate change: to wit, a six-year drought that has dislocated farming families and forced them into cit-ies like Aleppo, Damascus and ultimately Amman and Beirut.

Here, they found little work suited to their traditional skills; young men fell prey to sectarian brain washing.

Their younger brothers and sisters have had nearly five years of no (or inferior) schooling. Under these conditions, car-ing parents will act in their children's best interests.

In Charles' analysis, "We never deal with the underlying root cause which regrettably is what we're doing to our natural environment. I mean the difficul-ties in 2008 with the financial crash - that was a banking crisis. But we're now facing a real possibility of nature's bank going bust."

The current cohort of Syrian and Iraqi refugees may be the first group of envi-ronmental refugees to move to more hos-pitable climes in large numbers. If indeed they are, the Canadian refugee system will inevitably have to be amended to deal with "environmentally torn countries," whose inhospitable climates have set the stage for mass urban migration from rural villages and farms.

To such populations, Canada is a kind of Promised Land. Underpopulated, potentially benefitting agriculturally from the early stages of global warming, and predisposed to middle-power diplomacy and decency, Canada is the kind of coun-try people everywhere would like to raise their children.

Consider the choices a young Syrian family faces today in a Beiruti refugee camp, perhaps a repurposed concrete parking garage in the city's core. To stay is to accept an uncertain fate at best, cooking dinners on an open fire and hoping for charity or marginal employ-ment in the city's street-side markets. Educational opportunities for children will be severely limited. To decide to move is to embrace hope of redemption in another system - in another world. To such parents, Canada is the dream desti-nation.

Facing this uncertain world, Canada needs seriously to plan for a growing tide of refugees. Expensive real estate and a high cost of living will bar some tradi-tional recipient cities like Vancouver and Toronto from playing a key role.

It is time for the smaller, less costly regional centres to move to the fore.

– Troy Media Columnist Mike Robinson has been CEO of three Canadian NGOs:

the Arctic Institute of North America, the Glenbow Museum, and the Bill Reid

Gallery.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

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Published by Black Press Ltd.74 Young Road, Unit 14 Brookfield MallClearwater, B.C. V0E 1N2

4 - 5

Editor, The Times:No one likes to have

their vehicle break down on the highway, but recently when I had that unfortunate experience, my situation was wonder-fully enhanced by the good people of Clearwater.

This went from the lady at the Strawberry Moose Snackery, who told me where the parts stores were and provided

me with hot coffee, to the folks at Aspen Auto Parts and Fleetwood Auto, who each delivered alterna-tors to me until I had the right one, and the people at TNT Transmission and Automotive, who charged up my battery for free while I worked on my truck.

I applaud your com-munity and in particular these people who gener-ously went out of their way

to help me get back on the road.

Even the snow plow operator that was clearing the parking lot, stopped to offer help.

Thanks to all of you; it's you that makes the com-munity what it is.

Have a Merry Christmas.

Ben WilkowskiFort Saskatchewan, Alberta

Editor, The Times:The arguments for

requiring business licenses in Clearwater are so weak as to be laughable. And once they're in the cost will only keep creeping up to support the infrastructure it propagates. Any additional costs are always download-ed on to the public.

The president of the Chamber of Commerce is quoted as saying (“Clearwater business licensing draws debate,” Nov. 26 issue) that busi-

ness licensing would help protect the established busi-nesses. Protect them from what? Competition!

He was quoted to say, "You're never going to stop the truck vendors but at least you'd have a handle on them."

What's so evil about truck vendors? They must be certified by the prov-ince. They hire staff. They pay taxes. They provide a service - or the public wouldn't support them! What kind of "handle"

would a business license provide?

Tipi Treats provided Canadian and international tourists with an oppor-tunity to experience real indigenous food. Cuisine doesn't get any more Canadian than 'Salmon on a Bannock'! As many tourists said, " You can get ice cream anywhere in the world but not bannock!"

David Billy SagerManager of Tipi Treats

Clearwater, B.C.

Of the 19.5 million refugees in the world today, only about 100,000 can be resettled each year

Business licensing would not help anyone

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Editor, The Times:The latest boondog-

gle from the provincial government is a nearly $100-million student information system called My Education B.C.

While the Ministry of Education is claim-ing that this system is what is needed in B.C. schools, teachers would suggest otherwise.

Communication with parents on student success is an important aspect of the work teachers do. However, teachers are being told to use the new student information system despite the numerous glitches and faults that have not been resolved to date.

Teachers are being limited in their ability to complete interim or

formal reports because other more effective reporting systems are not available to them or they are not being per-mitted to use them.

Because teachers are spending countless hours and evenings, and weekends struggling with this inadequate reporting system, less time is available to pre-pare for lessons and to support students in the classroom.

Further the B.C. Liberal government has committed no extra funding to sup-port teachers in using this program and the reporting format elementary teachers are being forced to use creates an unreasonable workload.

Teachers want to be able to report effectively

to parents, but are being limited.

They are being forced to use a substan-dard reporting system.

Until the problems with this new software program are resolved the provincial govern-ment and local school

district should permit teachers to use the most effective means to com-municate and report to parents.

David Komljenovic, president

Kamloops-Thompson Teachers’ Association

4 - 5

Legion says thanksMayor John Harwood (l) accepts a certificate of appreciation for District of Clearwater town council from Clearwater-Vavenby Legion #259 representative Calvin Lutz during a dinner held recently at the Legion Hall. Also given out were certificates to Harwood himself, Charlotte Cederholm, Loyd Bishop, Dr. Bob Mackenzie, Dave Tomlinson, Ray Stegar and Keith McNeillPhoto submitted

Editor, The Times:I am 70 years old and have

paid income tax all my life.It seems all us senior citizens

are getting our annual Christmas present from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and it comes with a red ribbon on it.

It turns out it is not a Christmas present, but actually a reassessment of my income taxes that are dealt with by April 30 of the calender year.

My reassessment this year, which I just received while I was in the hospital getting surgery,

states I owe $612.At my age, it turns out, I miss

things once in a while.The missed T3 investment

form amount owed was $212. They penalize me for getting into my senior years and I need a les-son.

Upon phoning the CRA, they say they have legislation in place to back up the penalty payment on overdue income tax.

I am neither wealthy nor poor, but unhappy at the moment because of the power the CRA has to penalize me

unfairly, without my knowledge, while interest accrues from April 30 through to November.

This is discrimination or a penalty for growing old. At my age, it is easy to miss things.

We don’t have a great income in the senior years and this unfair legislation gives the CRA way too much power to be nasty and uncaring.

They want their money.A much fairer system

would reassess me, then send

the reassessment to me, with the amount missed on the form — along with the form that was missed — and have a due date on it.

The penalty should start after the amount due date.

Ron TelfordKamloops, B.C.

New Alberta refinery would help CanadaEditor, The Times:

“Alberta's nearest refinery cost levelling out at $8.5 billion” – an item way in the back of a Vancouver newspaper.

This project has been in the pipes for at least 10 years. However my friend in Cumberland, who keeps track of everything oil, pointed out that information on this proposed super refinery was very hard to come by.

A couple of years back there was a concerted effort to promote the idea that no more refining should be done in Canada.

No, all of Alberta's tar should be pushed down the Northern Gateway – Keystone Kops XL or any other pipeline, to be refined elsewhere – in the deep South of the U.S. of A or in China.

Certain organizations, such as the Fraser-Macdonald-Laurier 'think tanks,' pushed this idea right to the limit. On the pages of the Financial Post some columnists made a case that all of Canada's resources – logs, minerals, bitumen – should be shipped raw – no refining, sawing or whatever.

In the words of John Michael Greer in "Decline and Fall," Canadians should participate

in the 'looting' or their own resources.As everyone knows, there has been great

anguish in the oil patch. Our great ally Saudi Arabia, in its campaign to destroy the fracking industry, has drastically lowered the price of oil.

However (and you don't hear much about this), the one sector that is making money, due to the low price of raw oil, is the refining sector. It is going 'great guns,' to use an old expression.

So there is an obvious reason why Alberta's newest refinery, despite its $8.5 billion price tag, is going ahead.

Sure puts the lie to what those Calgary petro-thugs and that useless bunch at the CPPA (Canadian Petroleum Producers Association) wanted to do.

Also it's more in line with what the Rachel Notley NDP government has expressed – although one has to ask why did Notley show disappointment at Barack Obama’s turndown of that Keystone Kops' nonsense.

That decision of Obama's Democrats was one of the best things that's ever happened to Canada.

Dennis PeacockClearwater, B.C.

Canada Revenue Agency excels at playing role of Grinch

B.C.’s latest education ‘boondoggle’


50 YEARS AGO:The manager of the

Kamloops Royal Bank brought his family and several friends up to Raft Mountain for ski-ing. Local resident Tony Rudlang was promoting the mountain as a pos-sible ski resort. Snow was about 30 inches at the site of the proposed lodge and three feet on the slopes. A lot of interest was generated on the mountain with the demonstration of a Canadian-made "Ski-Doo."

Trustees and offi-cials from Birch Island School District joined

others from Lillooet, Ashcroft, Merritt, Kamloops and Barriere to discuss amalgama-tion.

A new portable tele-phone exchange went into service in Vavenby, replacing the local dial operation.

45 YEARS AGO:Wells Gray Hospital

Society chairman John Harwood and vice-chairman George Smith were to meet with B.C. Hospital Insurance Service officials in Victoria. Construction of the new hospital in

Clearwater was to start early the next year.

A well-known and respected resident of the Clearwater and Sunshine Valley areas, Ira Dewitt passed away at the age of 94. Born in Napanee, Ont., he had come to the area in 1932. Clearwater United Church had held services in his home

before a building was erected.

40 YEARS AGO:Problems cre-

ated in the Flats area of Clearwater by provincial flood control regulations wouldn't be changed by amendments made by the TNRD to its own zoning. Regional district planner Herb Virdi said the gov-ernment did not allow any appeals.

Residents of Avola approved street lighting by a 29 - 4 margin.

No candidate offered his or her services to replace Tom Hanna as Area B (Blue River-Avola) TNRD director. After the deadline had passed, Herb George, operator of the Avola 66 station, offered to take the position.

Socred Raft Mair was challenging NDP incum-bent Gerry Anderson in a provincial election to be held later that week. Mair's campaign manag-er was Bud Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Smith of Birch Island.

35 YEARS AGO:Clearwater

Secondary School stu-dents Suzie Russell, Bev Simpson, Sandi McLellan and John Raschke presented a play, "Mirror Woman," at Dutch Lake, Raft

River and Vavenby elementary schools.

30 YEARS AGO:M.P. Nelson Riis

announced that the federal government was to donate $10,000 towards the Clearwater Midgets' hockey trip to Finland, Sweden and Russia. Thirty-three people, including players, coaches and parents, were to make the trip. Total cost was estimated at $45,000. The team was to leave on Dec. 22.

25 YEARS AGO:MLA Bud Smith,

Clearwater forest district manager Mel Monteith, Wells Gray Park zone supervi-sor Earl Sinclair and other representatives of federal, provincial and local governments were panelists at a public meeting held to discuss Clearwater's future. "Residents of Clearwater should not have to sell their homes for nothing and leave," said John Harwood, chair of the meeting.

Clearwater's Royal Bank branch celebrated its 25th anniversary. Jean Nelson, 1990 Clearwater Citizen of the Year, was the first official user of the Royal Bank's new

banking machine at Brookfield Mall.

20 YEARS AGO:A 29-year-old

Clearwater resident was taken into custody and charged following a fatal shooting at his residence. A 24-year-old man had been found dead in the front yard of the first man's residence by police. Acquaintances said the two men had a history of confrontational situ-ations.

Clearwater Rotary was to host the first annual Christmas Carol Sing and Tree Light Up. "Every other little town seems to have one, so we figured we should have one, too," explained Rotarian Gord Heisterman.

15 YEARS AGO:Clearwater Chamber

of Commerce's execu-tive received a vote of confidence when all members were returned without opposition. President was again Ray Negrin, vice presi-dent was Steve Pelton, secretary was Cheryl Thomas and treasurer was Gwen Anderson.

School District 73 would have to break the rules against running a deficit to avoid severe disruption of the educa-tion system, said school trustee Bert Walker. Increases in fuel, wages and benefits had given unanticipated expenses.

A small mining company, Cassidy Gold, announced it had found ore that was nearly 1/4 pure zinc northeast of

Avola. Company presi-dent Jim Gillis formerly lived in Blue River.

10 YEARS AGO:Parents advisory com-

mittees in schools from Clearwater to Blue River were the biggest ben-eficiaries of the Canfor/Canfor Truckers fund. A total of $6,000 was going from the fund to local PACs. The Canfor Truckers Fund donated $30,000 to worthwhile causes throughout the valley.

A B.C. Supreme Court judge approved the sale of Interact Forest Products to a numbered company. The ownership of the numbered compa-ny appeared to be associ-ated with Matco Capital Ltd. of Calgary, one of Interact's creditors, with $1.5 million listed as a debt against the finger-joint company.

5 YEARS AGO:Solicitor General

Rich Coleman turned down a request from Mayor John Harwood to re-open Bear Creek Correctional Center. Instead the govern-ment was looking at building a new 360-cell prison somewhere in the Okanagan. The local minimum-security facil-ity had closed in 2002.

Members of Wells Gray Search and Rescue took to the ice in the North Thomson River near Vavenby as they participated in a cold-water rescue course put on by Rescue Canada. "With Dutch Lake in the center of town, we thought it was impor-tant...." said team leader Gord Dubois.

1 YEAR AGO:Judge Chris

Cleaveley administered the oaths of office to swear in Clearwater’s fourth town coun-cil. Originally from Roundtop, the provincial court judge had sworn in all the town councils since incorporation in 2007.

Santa Claus visited Blackpool Hall for a Breakfast With Santa event sponsored by Aboriginal Success by 6. The jolly old elf also attended Rotary’s annual Christmas Tree Light-up at the Infocenter.

HISTORICAL Perspect i ve

BACK IN TIME

6 - 7

HOLIDAY HOURSOur o� ces will be closed December 25 & January 1

HOLIDAY BOOKING DEADLINESDecember 18 at 10am for December 24 issueDecember 23 at 10am for December 31 issue

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Calendar

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ClearwaterDec. 13 – Clearwater Elks Christmas Bazaar, Elks

Hall, 9am-3pm. $10/table. Info: Phyllis 250-674-3535

Dec 11-13 and Dec 18-20 - Winter Market at the Wells Gray Info Centre. Fri. 2-8pm Sat. 10-4pm Sun. 10-3pm Info: 250-676-9511

DepotBag Lady Enterprises

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50 YEARS AGO:The manager of the

Kamloops Royal Bank brought his family and several friends up to Raft Mountain for ski-ing. Local resident Tony Rudlang was promoting the mountain as a pos-sible ski resort. Snow was about 30 inches at the site of the proposed lodge and three feet on the slopes. A lot of interest was generated on the mountain with the demonstration of a Canadian-made "Ski-Doo."

Trustees and offi-cials from Birch Island School District joined

others from Lillooet, Ashcroft, Merritt, Kamloops and Barriere to discuss amalgama-tion.

A new portable tele-phone exchange went into service in Vavenby, replacing the local dial operation.

45 YEARS AGO:Wells Gray Hospital

Society chairman John Harwood and vice-chairman George Smith were to meet with B.C. Hospital Insurance Service officials in Victoria. Construction of the new hospital in

Clearwater was to start early the next year.

A well-known and respected resident of the Clearwater and Sunshine Valley areas, Ira Dewitt passed away at the age of 94. Born in Napanee, Ont., he had come to the area in 1932. Clearwater United Church had held services in his home

before a building was erected.

40 YEARS AGO:Problems cre-

ated in the Flats area of Clearwater by provincial flood control regulations wouldn't be changed by amendments made by the TNRD to its own zoning. Regional district planner Herb Virdi said the gov-ernment did not allow any appeals.

Residents of Avola approved street lighting by a 29 - 4 margin.

No candidate offered his or her services to replace Tom Hanna as Area B (Blue River-Avola) TNRD director. After the deadline had passed, Herb George, operator of the Avola 66 station, offered to take the position.

Socred Raft Mair was challenging NDP incum-bent Gerry Anderson in a provincial election to be held later that week. Mair's campaign manag-er was Bud Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Smith of Birch Island.

35 YEARS AGO:Clearwater

Secondary School stu-dents Suzie Russell, Bev Simpson, Sandi McLellan and John Raschke presented a play, "Mirror Woman," at Dutch Lake, Raft

River and Vavenby elementary schools.

30 YEARS AGO:M.P. Nelson Riis

announced that the federal government was to donate $10,000 towards the Clearwater Midgets' hockey trip to Finland, Sweden and Russia. Thirty-three people, including players, coaches and parents, were to make the trip. Total cost was estimated at $45,000. The team was to leave on Dec. 22.

25 YEARS AGO:MLA Bud Smith,

Clearwater forest district manager Mel Monteith, Wells Gray Park zone supervi-sor Earl Sinclair and other representatives of federal, provincial and local governments were panelists at a public meeting held to discuss Clearwater's future. "Residents of Clearwater should not have to sell their homes for nothing and leave," said John Harwood, chair of the meeting.

Clearwater's Royal Bank branch celebrated its 25th anniversary. Jean Nelson, 1990 Clearwater Citizen of the Year, was the first official user of the Royal Bank's new

banking machine at Brookfield Mall.

20 YEARS AGO:A 29-year-old

Clearwater resident was taken into custody and charged following a fatal shooting at his residence. A 24-year-old man had been found dead in the front yard of the first man's residence by police. Acquaintances said the two men had a history of confrontational situ-ations.

Clearwater Rotary was to host the first annual Christmas Carol Sing and Tree Light Up. "Every other little town seems to have one, so we figured we should have one, too," explained Rotarian Gord Heisterman.

15 YEARS AGO:Clearwater Chamber

of Commerce's execu-tive received a vote of confidence when all members were returned without opposition. President was again Ray Negrin, vice presi-dent was Steve Pelton, secretary was Cheryl Thomas and treasurer was Gwen Anderson.

School District 73 would have to break the rules against running a deficit to avoid severe disruption of the educa-tion system, said school trustee Bert Walker. Increases in fuel, wages and benefits had given unanticipated expenses.

A small mining company, Cassidy Gold, announced it had found ore that was nearly 1/4 pure zinc northeast of

Avola. Company presi-dent Jim Gillis formerly lived in Blue River.

10 YEARS AGO:Parents advisory com-

mittees in schools from Clearwater to Blue River were the biggest ben-eficiaries of the Canfor/Canfor Truckers fund. A total of $6,000 was going from the fund to local PACs. The Canfor Truckers Fund donated $30,000 to worthwhile causes throughout the valley.

A B.C. Supreme Court judge approved the sale of Interact Forest Products to a numbered company. The ownership of the numbered compa-ny appeared to be associ-ated with Matco Capital Ltd. of Calgary, one of Interact's creditors, with $1.5 million listed as a debt against the finger-joint company.

5 YEARS AGO:Solicitor General

Rich Coleman turned down a request from Mayor John Harwood to re-open Bear Creek Correctional Center. Instead the govern-ment was looking at building a new 360-cell prison somewhere in the Okanagan. The local minimum-security facil-ity had closed in 2002.

Members of Wells Gray Search and Rescue took to the ice in the North Thomson River near Vavenby as they participated in a cold-water rescue course put on by Rescue Canada. "With Dutch Lake in the center of town, we thought it was impor-tant...." said team leader Gord Dubois.

1 YEAR AGO:Judge Chris

Cleaveley administered the oaths of office to swear in Clearwater’s fourth town coun-cil. Originally from Roundtop, the provincial court judge had sworn in all the town councils since incorporation in 2007.

Santa Claus visited Blackpool Hall for a Breakfast With Santa event sponsored by Aboriginal Success by 6. The jolly old elf also attended Rotary’s annual Christmas Tree Light-up at the Infocenter.

HISTORICAL Perspect i ve

BACK IN TIME

6 - 7

Work

It’s a fact, education, training and certification

leads to more and better paying employment –

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For current and recent EI clients

For persons with disabilities

For single parents on BCEA

For income Assistance recipients

LOCAL UPCOMING TRAINING

Business Fundamentals Certificate

Micro Computer Certificate

Level C Welder Camp/Prep Cook

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_________________________________________________ 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.

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 8:00

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A FULL LIST OF JOB POSTINGS ARE POSTED ON OUR WEBSITE: WWW.CLEARWATEREMPLOYMENT.CA

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FOR FULL POSTINGS VISIT www.clearwateremployment.ca

OR THE JOB BOARD IN OUR OFFICE

Please call to see an employment Case Manager to assist you with your employment needs and goals.

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with MICHELLE

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PHARMASAVEMonday - Saturday 9 AM - 6 PM

Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM

201-365 Murtle Cres, Clearwater, B.C.

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The first kidney transplant was performed in 1954. It was a real milestone in medicine. Today it is a very common procedure which saves the lives of many and gives them back a regular life. The only problem is that there are not enough people signing up to be an organ donor so the demand always outpaces the supply. If you aren’t already an organ donor, consider signing up today.

Oh the ingenuity of medical researchers.... In England they have developed a capsule which contains a spongey material. The patient swallows the capsule which has a string attached. The capsule dissolves and releases an expanding sponge which is then pulled back up the esophagus and it takes cell samples on the way up. It might provide an earlier diagnosis for esophageal cancer.

If you have ever had shingles, it’s no fun. If you have shingles, you cannot give them to another person. But the virus causing shingles, varicella zoster, can be spread to another person who has never had chickenpox and actually give that person chickenpox. Just a reminder, a person is not infectious before the shingle blisters occur or after the blisters have crusted over.

Chickenpox was just part of growing up in the 20th Century. It caused a lot of misery for children and parents alike. Today we have a chickenpox vaccine and we also have a vaccine for shingles.

For information about vaccines for your child or you, talk to our pharmacists. We’d be happy to tell you what is available and how they work.

HOME TOWN girl with HOME TOWN service

DINNER IS ON ME I will buy you a $100 meal when you buy a car from me!

Big city selection with small town pricing

DEARBORN FORD Jody Gyger CELL 250-571-9609 Tel 250-372-71012555 East Trans Canada Hwy - Kamloops


Kamloops This Week

Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Cathy McLeod began poring over the mandate letter from the Liberal government’s minister of Indigenous and Aboriginal Affairs as the first session of Parliament officially began recently.

McLeod is the Conservative govern-ment’s new Opposition critic for the portfolio.

She will scrutinize the department headed by Minister Carolyn Bennett.

“The mandate let-ter is public,” McLeod said.

“I’m reviewing her mandate letter. Next week, the full reports for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will be released . . . We’re look-ing at her mandate and waiting to see where she takes the portfolio.”

The new Liberal government’s throne speech is set for Friday and follows the elec-tion Thursday of Liberal Geoff Regan as speaker of the

House of Commons.Regan, 56, who

represents the riding of Halifax West, was first elected in 1993, defeated in 1997 and re-elected in 2000.

He has served as MP ever since.

In the speaker elec-

tion, Regan defeated fellow Liberal MPs Denis Paradis and Yasmin Ratansi and Conservative MP Bruce Stanton.

Regan is the son of former Nova Scotia premier and federal cabinet minister Gerald

Regan. His wife Kelly is a member of the pro-vincial legislature.

Conservative MP Andrew Scheer, who held the post since 2011, opted not to run again, choosing instead to serve as Opposition House leader.

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations

VICTORIA – British Columbians interested in cutting their own Christmas tree should obtain their permit online or contact their local district or FrontCounter BC office.

Local district offices can provide details about specific cutting requirements and approved harvest areas. Free use permits are provided for personal use only – selling a tree cut under a Christmas tree permit or cutting in an unauthor-ized area is illegal.

No permits are available in the Chilliwack and South Island districts due to population density and tree demand.

The ministry's Christmas Tree website at: www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/xmastrees.htm pro-vides links to online Christmas tree permits, FrontCounter BC and district office contact information, and the B.C. Christmas Tree Council's website containing a list of tree farms and "U-Cuts" around the province.

When cutting a Christmas tree, keep the following tips in mind:

* Leave home pre-pared. Bring ropes, gloves, tools, tire chains, a first aid kit, a mobile phone and warm clothing.

* Drive carefully. Be prepared for logging trucks: www.bcforest-safe.org/files/tk_pdfs/gde_resrd.pdf

* Make sure you have found the tree you will use before cutting to avoid wasting forest resources. Some permits specify only one tree can be cut.

* Choose a tree that can be cut near the base and is easy to transport. Wasted tree remains left in the forest form a summer fire hazard.

* Clean up and remove all debris associated with your activity.

6 - 7

Quilters show their creationsNicole Hebert holds a pillow and quilt she created while behind her is a wall hanging by Debbie Brooks. The items were part of a display of works put on by local quilters in the gallery at Dutch Lake Community Centre recently. Photo by Keith McNeill

Christmas tree cutting permits now available

McLeod begins session as member of Opposition


Left: Doris Scarff holds one of her paintings, just one of numerous items by her and other Vavenby artists that were for sale during a Christmas open house held re-cently at her home.

Robyn Rexin

Vavenby artists Hilda Reimer and Doris Scarff held Christmas open houses in their homes the week before last.

Reimer sold her own handcrafted glass work, such as glass lit blocks and votive candle holders, and her photographic work.

She had made some of her pictures into calendars. Her pictures were beauti-ful and, as she said, just caught at the right time. She does try to carry her cam-era around with her all of the time.

Although located a short distance out of town, it was easy to find one's way to Reimer's home for those who had not been there before, as she had put up signs with lights that came on automatically.

Scarff sold decora-tions and table orna-ments, jams, jars with soup ingredients, paintings on differ-ent kinds of objects such as wood and skates, and more. There were six other women working at her open house, sell-ing their products as well.

Eleanor Deckert of Avola had her book 10 Days in December for sale. Lou Capostinsky

was selling cinnamon buns, which went quickly. Anne Lane and Barb Ferguson had their paintings for sale and Shirley De Vooght had tickets for Serenity upcoming events, gift certificates, and CDs.

Suzanne Guernier sold her bead jewel-lery and hair pieces plus gift certificates and origami pockets to put the tickets in. Margot Evans had her binder of graphic designs to choose from for pictures, business cards, flyers, brochures, etc.

There was lots of beautiful and inspi-rational items to choose from for gifts for those hard to get people or to add to one's own decora-tions.

There was tea, coffee, baked goods, and snacks at both open houses, making for a very friendly atmosphere. Both places were beauti-fully decorated for Christmas.

8 - 9CounterAttack road checks get underway

Melanie Williams gets stopped by Cpl. Mark Labossiere of Clearwater RCMP highway patrol as CounterAttack road checks get un-derway on Friday, Dec. 4.Photo by Keith McNeill

Submitted

Starting Friday, Dec. 4, CounterAttack roadchecks are being set up by police across the province to keep impaired driv-ers off our roads throughout December.

While attitudes toward drinking and driving have changed considerably over the years, 86 lives are still lost every year in B.C., representing more than a quarter of all car crash fatalities.

On average, 29 people are killed in crashes involving impaired driving in the Southern Interior every year.

That's why the B.C. government, police and ICBC are urging drivers to plan ahead and make smart decisions to get home safely this holiday season.

"We've made significant progress but too many people are still losing their lives due to impaired driving," said Minister of Justice, Suzanne Anton. "CounterAttack remains a key part of our provincial enforcement strategy and further reducing crashes involving alcohol and drugs makes

our roads safer for British Columbians."ICBC is helping to prevent impaired

driving this December with an education campaign, funding for CounterAttack roadchecks and promotion of designated drivers with businesses, sports facilities and community groups.

It's also the 20th year that ICBC has supported Operation Red Nose, a volun-teer service in 25 B.C. communities that provides safe rides to drivers who have been drinking or feel too tired to drive during the holidays. This service is avail-able now until December 19 on Friday and Saturday nights and on New Year's Eve.

Get more stats and facts from ICBC's infographic and learn more about the CounterAttack campaign on icbc.com.

Unique artworks for sale in Vavenby

Above: Hilda Reimer shows some of the items she had for sale during a recent Christmas open house at her home.Photos by Robyn Rexin

Support your local businessesShop Local


Clearwater RCMP detachment

On Nov. 25, at approximately 5:30 p.m. Clearwater RCMP were called to the Avola Gas Station as a male and female were causing a disturbance.

The male had kicked the glass door,

smashing the glass.The two then

proceeded toward Clearwater in a black coloured Mazda car.

Police located the suspect vehicle on Highway 5 near Birch Island and attempted to pull the vehicle over. However, the driver would not stop and fled from police.

The vehicle eventu-

ally came to a dead end on a side road. The male jumped out of the vehicle and ran into the bush. The female got out of the vehicle and complied with police directions.

A member followed the male’s foot tracks in the snow until he was located. The male was arrested for mis-chief, failing to stop for police and flight from police.

The female was subsequently arrested as she had an endorsed warrant

from the Victoria Police Department. The female was released from police custody short after-wards once the war-rant was dealt with.

During the inves-tigation, the male provided a false name to police. When the members confirmed his actual identity, they found that the male had multiple court imposed con-ditions (he was to remain inside his house during evening hours, and he was not allowed to leave the Province of Alberta or possess a cell-phone).

The male was in breach of the listed court conditions and also will face mul-tiple new charges in Clearwater.

As well, the male was intoxicated and received a three-day driving prohibition.

Times Staff

“10 Days in December” author Eleanor Deckert is stretching her horizons. Through a recent radio inter-view with Jim Harrison on Radio NL she hopes to direct the listeners' attention to the unique characteristics of her newly published book. The

book relates the sequence of events during 1978 when she and her husband, Kevin, first lived in their 14'x14' log cabin. Layered throughout the chap-ters are the back story of her childhood, how they met and came to Avola and built the cabin and also the anxiety of this City Girl as she begins to live on the edge of the

Canadian wil-derness.

“I've already been to Christmas Craft Fairs and also left copies of “10 Days in December” with stores in Valemount, Blue River, Avola,

Birch Island, Barriere and Kamloops. In Clearwater there are three non-profit societies supplying books: Forest House (for the Food Bank), the Hospital Gift Corner, and the Aboriginal Centre.”

Clearwater Library and the bookmobile have copies to loan out and the Main Branch Library in Kamloops will host a book launch event on Wednesday, Dec. 9 at 7pm.

Deckert's latest project is reading aloud to produce an audio book. Her Facebook page “10 Days in December” keeps fans up-to-date.

The interview with Jim Harrison aired Thursday, Dec. 3. If you missed the interview, you can catch it by going to the web page radionl.com then click on “Audio Vault.”

8 - 9

Avola author gets interview with Jim Harrison on Radio NL

Avola resident Eleanor Deckert (l) talks about her new book, “10 Days in December”, with Jim Harrison of Radio NL in Kamloops recently. The inter-view aired Thursday, Dec. 3. If you missed it, you can catch it by going to the radionl.com webpage, then clicking on “Audio Vault.”Photo by Radio NL staff

Harry James (l) and Hailey Jones (r) of Clearwater and District Food Bank ac-cept a $500 cheque from Adrienne and Garth Campbell of Clearwater Elks #499 recently. Photo submitted

Elks chip in for Food Bank

Arrested for altercation in AvolaGreat Christmas Gift Idea...

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North Thompson Star/Journalwww.starjournal.net | 250-672-5611359 Borthwick | Barriere, BC

“When you need us, we’re close by”When a death occurs, we are here to help you, every step of the way. 24 hours a day, every day. If you have made pre-arrangements elsewhere and would like to discuss having your local funeral home take care of

you, please feel free to call.

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1-877-674-3030 MaryAnn Shewchuk(Funeral Director/Embalmer)Manager, Barriere

PROTECT YOUR

HOME

Remember to clean your chimney and prevent � res

Message from Blackpool Fire Department

Clearwater & District FooD Bank

Open: 9am to 12 noon, Mondays and Fridays

How to Donate: Cash or cheques can be dropped off at the Food Bank or by

mail to 741 Clearwater Village Road, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1.

Food Donations: dropped off at the Food Bank, Clearwater Credit Union or at Buy-Low Foods

250-674-3402 • [email protected]


Left: Doris Scarff holds one of her paintings, just one of numerous items by her and other Vavenby artists that were for sale during a Christmas open house held re-cently at her home.

Robyn Rexin

Vavenby artists Hilda Reimer and Doris Scarff held Christmas open houses in their homes the week before last.

Reimer sold her own handcrafted glass work, such as glass lit blocks and votive candle holders, and her photographic work.

She had made some of her pictures into calendars. Her pictures were beauti-ful and, as she said, just caught at the right time. She does try to carry her cam-era around with her all of the time.

Although located a short distance out of town, it was easy to find one's way to Reimer's home for those who had not been there before, as she had put up signs with lights that came on automatically.

Scarff sold decora-tions and table orna-ments, jams, jars with soup ingredients, paintings on differ-ent kinds of objects such as wood and skates, and more. There were six other women working at her open house, sell-ing their products as well.

Eleanor Deckert of Avola had her book 10 Days in December for sale. Lou Capostinsky

was selling cinnamon buns, which went quickly. Anne Lane and Barb Ferguson had their paintings for sale and Shirley De Vooght had tickets for Serenity upcoming events, gift certificates, and CDs.

Suzanne Guernier sold her bead jewel-lery and hair pieces plus gift certificates and origami pockets to put the tickets in. Margot Evans had her binder of graphic designs to choose from for pictures, business cards, flyers, brochures, etc.

There was lots of beautiful and inspi-rational items to choose from for gifts for those hard to get people or to add to one's own decora-tions.

There was tea, coffee, baked goods, and snacks at both open houses, making for a very friendly atmosphere. Both places were beauti-fully decorated for Christmas.

8 - 9CounterAttack road checks get underway

Melanie Williams gets stopped by Cpl. Mark Labossiere of Clearwater RCMP highway patrol as CounterAttack road checks get un-derway on Friday, Dec. 4.Photo by Keith McNeill

Submitted

Starting Friday, Dec. 4, CounterAttack roadchecks are being set up by police across the province to keep impaired driv-ers off our roads throughout December.

While attitudes toward drinking and driving have changed considerably over the years, 86 lives are still lost every year in B.C., representing more than a quarter of all car crash fatalities.

On average, 29 people are killed in crashes involving impaired driving in the Southern Interior every year.

That's why the B.C. government, police and ICBC are urging drivers to plan ahead and make smart decisions to get home safely this holiday season.

"We've made significant progress but too many people are still losing their lives due to impaired driving," said Minister of Justice, Suzanne Anton. "CounterAttack remains a key part of our provincial enforcement strategy and further reducing crashes involving alcohol and drugs makes

our roads safer for British Columbians."ICBC is helping to prevent impaired

driving this December with an education campaign, funding for CounterAttack roadchecks and promotion of designated drivers with businesses, sports facilities and community groups.

It's also the 20th year that ICBC has supported Operation Red Nose, a volun-teer service in 25 B.C. communities that provides safe rides to drivers who have been drinking or feel too tired to drive during the holidays. This service is avail-able now until December 19 on Friday and Saturday nights and on New Year's Eve.

Get more stats and facts from ICBC's infographic and learn more about the CounterAttack campaign on icbc.com.

Unique artworks for sale in Vavenby

Above: Hilda Reimer shows some of the items she had for sale during a recent Christmas open house at her home.Photos by Robyn Rexin

Support your local businessesShop Local

Voices United Community Choir(sponsored by Trinity Shared Ministry) presents the cantata

Love Came Down at ChristmasDec. 12 at 4pm at the Clearwater Community Baptist Church

Admission by donationAll money collected will go to the Hopsice Society

� e sadness of the present daysis locked and set in time,and moving to the future

is a slow and painful climb.But all the feelings that are now

so vivid and so realcan’t hold their � esh intensity

as time begins to heal.No wound so deep will ever go

entirely awayyet every hurt becomes

a li� le less � om day to day.Nothing can erase the painful

imprints on your mindbut there are so� er memories

that time will let you � nd.� ough your heart won’t let the

sadnesssimply slide away

the echoes will diminisheven though the memories stay

ALWAYS YOU WILL BE REMEMBERED JOEY

LOVE ALL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

XOXO

Joey AtkinsonTime will ease the hurt

Blackpool Fire Department is hosting

Kids Day with SantaSunday, Dec. 1311 a.m. - 2 p.m.

at Blackpool Fire Hall1588 Old North Thompson Highway

Come sit on Santa’s kneeHot dogs, juice, treat bags


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10-11

Times Staff

Roland Neave, author of "Exploring Wells Gray Park", will have a book-signing for the sixth edition of his book at Buy-Low Foods on Saturday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The book includes much new information.

Book-signing for Wells Gray Park guidebook

Dancers show skillsLeft: Instructor Courtney Johnson (l) and her assistant, Ali Heaman make graceful movements. Johnson came here from Burnaby in June while Heaman is a student at Clearwater Secondary School. Look for more about the recital in next week's issue.

Evan Colborne gets helping hands from dad Brett Colborne as she puts a star on top of a tree be-ing decorated by Girl Guides during the annual Christmas Tree Light-Up at the Wells Gray Info-centre on Sunday evening. Look for more about the event in next week's issue.

(L-r) Sawyer, Finn and Lauren Kadlun-Jones write a letter to Santa. All photos by Keith McNeill

Light-Up fun

Soren Arduini shows his break-dancing skills during a recital by the new Clearwater Dance program in the Pit at Clearwater Secondary School on Thursday evening, Dec. 3. A total of about 70 youngsters took part and showed remarkable progress, considering the program started in late Sep-tember. All photos by Keith McNeill

Times Staff

The deadline for the BC Community Achievement Award is Jan. 15, 2016.

Obtain a nomina-tion form online at www.bcachievement.com, call toll free 866.882.6088 or email to [email protected].

Awards deadline

Roland Neave

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Doors open at 6pm • Bullarama 7pm •New Year’s Eve Dance to followTickets available at: The Star/Journal, Barriere Country Feeds, or the Horse Barn (Kamloops)

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Christmas Greetings

Al Kirkwood 250-672-5611 | 250-674-3343 | [email protected]


12 - 13

Sports

Hailey Griffin shows beautiful form as she takes part in Raft Mountain Skating Club's Christmas Exhibition on Friday evening, Dec. 4. For more about the show, see next week's issue.

Skate show amazes

Right: Members of the Star skaters group form a line as they perform to "Jingle Bell Rock" during Raft Mountain Skate Club's annual Christmas Exhibition on Friday evening, Dec. 4 in the Sportsplex. Photos by Keith McNeill

Make a tax-deductible donation in support of your community. Funds raised by the Foundation assist charitable organizations that improve health, contribute to culture, enhance community services and support families... all right here in the North Thompson.

Find us on the web at www.ntcommunitiesfoundation.com or on Facebook


Robyn Rexin

The Dec. 5/6 weekend was busy at the Vavenby Hall.

On the Saturday evening there was a Christmas com-munity potluck dinner. The room filled quickly. It had been set up for 66 diners but more chairs were added and then another table. There was a warm and cheerful atmosphere in the hall and the wonderful decorations added to the Christmas spirit.

The banquet was large, varied, and delicious. Doris Scarff cooked a turkey, which was quickly eaten. There were many desserts to choose from. No one need-ed to go home hungry.

Who knew that Santa Claus could play an instru-ment? There was a band called the Silver Tones and Santa was a member! The band played throughout the evening and added to the Christmas feeling.

At one point the children were asked to go in front of the Silver Tones and sing Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer with them. The children also enjoyed danc-ing to some of the music.

Near the end of the eve-ning Katherine Chrystall asked the band to play her favourite Christmas carol, Oh Holy Night, so that she could sing it solo for the audience. She has a beauti-ful voice.

Another (?) Santa Claus showed up to talk to the children and find out what they wanted for Christmas. After sitting on his knee and letting him know of their deepest desires they

were given goodie bags. He stayed until near the end of the evening.

Barb Pennell organized the event with help from eight volunteers: Doris Scarff, Noelle McCorriston, Margot Evans, Fay Jones, Cheryl Hall, Val Bellows, Lorne Yoerger and Joan Harrison.

On the Sunday after-noon there was a Christmas craft fair, also organized by Pennell. There were 12 ven-dors at the event.

It was well attended off and on throughout the day and many items were sold.

People could choose from baked and canned goods, jewellery, quilting, tie dye shirts, infinity scarves, gift baskets, glass art, Avon products, wreaths, natural products such as soaps, lotions, etc., Company 31 gifts, and more.

There was a concession looked after by volunteers Trina Ansell and Darren Stewart. Hot dogs, hamburg-ers, goodie bags, pop, water, hot chocolate, tea, and coffee were available.

Christmas in the Village

Vavenby Christian Church will hold its Christmas in the Village on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 11 a.m. Everyone will be welcome.

12 - 13Vavenby hosts dinner and craft fair

Volunteers who helped put on a potluck dinner at Vavenby Communi-ty Hall recently pose for a photograph. Pictured are (l-r) Val Bellows, Fay Jones, Lorne Yoerger, organizer Barb Pennell, Joan Harrison, Doris Scarff, Noelle McCorriston, and Margot Evans. Cheryl and Doug Hall had to leave early. Photo by Robyn Rexin



Game ScheduleSATURDAY DECEMBER 129:00 – 10:00 Novice

10:10 – 11:00 Prenovice

SUNDAY DECEMBER 1311:00 – 12:15 Novice vs. Chase1:15 – 2:30 Novice vs. Chase

Adult HockeyMens Drop In Hockey Fridays @ 7:45pm

Oldtimers Hockey will be Sundays @ 7pm & Wednesdays @ 8:35pm

Ladies Drop In HockeySunday @ 5:45pm

Family SkatingFriday @ 4:45PM & Sunday @ 4:15PM

Sponsored by Greffards Saw Shop and Greenscapes Arts and Crafts

NORTH THOMPSON SPORTSPLEX

Hockey Lives Here!

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

Clearwater Minor Hockey Become part of a winning team. Join Minor Hockey and learn

to play Canada’s Game. Open to Boys & Girls.www.cdmha.info/

Register @ 250 674 2594 or [email protected]

Wells Gray Curling Clubcall 250.674.3768

Santa Claus Skate

December 22 • 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Raft Mountain Skating Club WITH OUR ENERGETIC, FUN, PROFESSIONAL COACHESJoin local coaches Teresa Heisterman for Junior & Senior Star Skate and Chelsea Hindle for Preschool & Canskate

RAFT MOUNTAINSKATING CLUB REGISTRATIONDecember 15 - AG Foods - Barrierefrom 2:30pm - 4:30pmDecember 16 - Sportsplexfrom 4pm - 6pmEarly bird rates are in effect until January 10th

Or register/info www.raftmountain.comFunding is available upon request for those eligible.

Lessons beginthe week of January 4


12 - 13

Sports

Hailey Griffin shows beautiful form as she takes part in Raft Mountain Skating Club's Christmas Exhibition on Friday evening, Dec. 4. For more about the show, see next week's issue.

Skate show amazes

Right: Members of the Star skaters group form a line as they perform to "Jingle Bell Rock" during Raft Mountain Skate Club's annual Christmas Exhibition on Friday evening, Dec. 4 in the Sportsplex. Photos by Keith McNeill

Make a tax-deductible donation in support of your community. Funds raised by the Foundation assist charitable organizations that improve health, contribute to culture, enhance community services and support families... all right here in the North Thompson.

Find us on the web at www.ntcommunitiesfoundation.com or on Facebook


Robyn Rexin

The Dec. 5/6 weekend was busy at the Vavenby Hall.

On the Saturday evening there was a Christmas com-munity potluck dinner. The room filled quickly. It had been set up for 66 diners but more chairs were added and then another table. There was a warm and cheerful atmosphere in the hall and the wonderful decorations added to the Christmas spirit.

The banquet was large, varied, and delicious. Doris Scarff cooked a turkey, which was quickly eaten. There were many desserts to choose from. No one need-ed to go home hungry.

Who knew that Santa Claus could play an instru-ment? There was a band called the Silver Tones and Santa was a member! The band played throughout the evening and added to the Christmas feeling.

At one point the children were asked to go in front of the Silver Tones and sing Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer with them. The children also enjoyed danc-ing to some of the music.

Near the end of the eve-ning Katherine Chrystall asked the band to play her favourite Christmas carol, Oh Holy Night, so that she could sing it solo for the audience. She has a beauti-ful voice.

Another (?) Santa Claus showed up to talk to the children and find out what they wanted for Christmas. After sitting on his knee and letting him know of their deepest desires they

were given goodie bags. He stayed until near the end of the evening.

Barb Pennell organized the event with help from eight volunteers: Doris Scarff, Noelle McCorriston, Margot Evans, Fay Jones, Cheryl Hall, Val Bellows, Lorne Yoerger and Joan Harrison.

On the Sunday after-noon there was a Christmas craft fair, also organized by Pennell. There were 12 ven-dors at the event.

It was well attended off and on throughout the day and many items were sold.

People could choose from baked and canned goods, jewellery, quilting, tie dye shirts, infinity scarves, gift baskets, glass art, Avon products, wreaths, natural products such as soaps, lotions, etc., Company 31 gifts, and more.

There was a concession looked after by volunteers Trina Ansell and Darren Stewart. Hot dogs, hamburg-ers, goodie bags, pop, water, hot chocolate, tea, and coffee were available.

Christmas in the Village

Vavenby Christian Church will hold its Christmas in the Village on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 11 a.m. Everyone will be welcome.

12 - 13Vavenby hosts dinner and craft fair

Volunteers who helped put on a potluck dinner at Vavenby Communi-ty Hall recently pose for a photograph. Pictured are (l-r) Val Bellows, Fay Jones, Lorne Yoerger, organizer Barb Pennell, Joan Harrison, Doris Scarff, Noelle McCorriston, and Margot Evans. Cheryl and Doug Hall had to leave early. Photo by Robyn Rexin



A division of

St James Catholic Church

Sunday Service Mass

11am - 12pm

324 Clearwater Village Road

1-250-372-2581

Clearwater Seventh-Day

Adventist Church

Pastor John MasiganSaturday Service - 10amClearwater Christian ChurchPh. 250-674-3468

Clearwater Living Streams Christian

FellowshipMeeting at

New Life Assemblyevery Sunday 4:00pm

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

Phone: 250-674-2345308 W Old N Thompson Hwy

ChurchDirectory

Your 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 ChurchNon-denominational congregation in fellowship with

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

Wayne Richardson (Pastor)

Sunday Worship Service

10 amOn the Web: www.clchch.com

For information 250.674.7073 or 250.674.2912

Pastor Doug Spinney 250.674.3624www.ccbaptist.ca

CLEARWATERCOMMUNITY

BAPTIST24E Old North Thompson Hwy

Worship Service 10:30

TRINITYSHARED MINISTRY

Anglican, Lutheran & UnitedMeeting at

St. James Catholic ChurchWorship Sunday 9am

Rev. Brian KrushelOffice: 250-672-5653 • [email protected]

www.norththompsonpc.ca

People United Christmas Eve ServiceCome join us in a candle light service celebrating the birth of Jesus in togetherness.

Thursday Dec 24 • 3:00pm & 6:00pmAt the Clearwater Community Baptist Church Building. “A free will offering will be taken for the refugee family moving to Clearwater”

Sponsoring Churches- Clearwater Community Baptist Church - New Life Assembly - Living Streams Fellowship - Clearwater Christian Church


Business & Service DirectoryACCOUNTANT

STONE & COMPANYChartered Professional Accountants

Jason O’Driscoll, CPA, CA - Bob Lawrie, CPA, CGA

Rison 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: 250-554-2533 • Fax: 250-554-2536Providing Assurance and Accounting, Tax and Advisory Services

Accountant Appliance Repair

CARPENTRY

Hazel’s HousingQUALITY WORK

• NEW CONSTRUCTION • RENOVATIONS • ROOFING

CLEARWATER, B.C.

250-674-4083Hazel Dowds

Journeyman Carpenter

Carpentry

Advertise Hardware

For AllYour

AdvertisingNeedsCall

THE TIMESAl Kirkwood

674-3343

A DVERTISINGElectric Contractors

Licenced & BondedReg. NO: 99142

BOTTLE DEPOT

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

ConstructionConstruction &

Renovations from Foundations

to Roof

Rob Kerslake

Steve Noble

REFRIGERATION - SALES - HOT TUB PARTSAPPLIANCE PARTS - FURNACE PARTS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

DOUG

No� h RiverAPPLIANCE REPAIR

Quality Service

250.674.0079

Four Star Service

MOTOR LICENCE OFFICE

ICBC AgentDistrict of Clearwater

Phone: 250-674-2257 • Fax: 250-674-2173 Box 157, 209 Dutch Lake Road, Clearwater, V0E 1N0Of� ce Hours: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Open through the Noon hour

Motor Licence OfficePlumbing & Drains

NORTH THOMPSON

NTPDPLUMBING AND DRAINSGot Leaks? Plugged Drain? New Installs

Fully Insured • 100% Guaranteed • 250-674-8151

Wells & Pumps ≈ Yearly Maintenance ≈ Frozen pipesWe are right around the corner

Construction

Construction and Home Renovation

MARSHALL MCRAERed Seal Carpenter

[email protected]

250-674-1182

On the Level Enterprises

Automotive Repair

649 Kennedy Road • www.wellsgrayservicecenter.ca

PRO-FORM Feeds

Your number one stop for all your garden, building and farm supplies

Complete Farm & Garden Centre • Customer Service at its BestWinter Hours • 8:30am - 5:00pm • Monday to Saturday

250-674-3386 - 213 W. Old N. Thompson Hwy.

• Paint Supplies • Plumbing & Electrical • Hardware • Plywoods • Lumber • Fencing Materials • Vinyl Sidings • Roo� ngs • Specialty Items

• Treated Timber • Farm Gates • Interior & Exterior Doors

Building Supplies

Heating & A/C Business & Service Directory

Chain SharpeningCHAIN SHARPENINGProfessional Ground or Hand File

CHAIN SHARPENING30 Years of Experience Guaranteed Sharp NO Burnt TeethSpecializing in Ripping Chains

Stu Cahoon • Cell 250.674.1783 Home 250.677.4299Leave message for appointment

BOTTLE DEPOT

DepotRecycle Today to Save Tomorrow!

4365 Borthwick Ave. Barriere - BC

Bag Lady Enterprises

WINTER HOURS10am - 4pm Mon. - Sat.

Closed Sunday

TAXI SERVICE

WELLS GRAY

TAXIAVAILABLE 24 HOURS • 7 DAYS A WEEK

250-674-2214 • 250-674-1542

Taxi Service

HEATING & A/C

Your local provider for home comfortInspection & Cleaning of all

Makes & Models of Central A/Cs,Furnaces, Heat Pumps, Boilers,

Hot Water Tanks, HRVs, Etc.Hot Water Tanks, HRVs, Etc.

250.672.0251

SERVICING THE NORTH THOMPSON

Authorized Dealer

Rebates on equipment now

in eff ect

Certi� ed Partner

Heating & A/C

250-319-2306www.bjchvacltd.com

[email protected], BC

We Service, Maintain and Install Residential | Commercial | InstitutionalHeavy Equipment, Heating, A/C, Refrigeration, Heat Pump, Geothermal, Boilers, Rooftop Units, Oil & Propane Furnaces &Commercial Kitchen Equipment

BJC HVAC Ltd.PROUDLY SERVING THE NORTH THOMPSON


Business & Service DirectoryBusiness & Service

Directory

Contracting

On allService Centre

250.674.0145 | [email protected] Yellowhead Hwy S. Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1

O� ering Heavy Duty mechanical and Inspections

Mon. - Fri. • 8am – [email protected] • 851 Yellowhead Hwy S.

• PLUMBING• PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS

• SEPTIC INSTALLATIONS• SEPTIC PUMPING

• WATER COMPACTION• WELL INSTALLATION

• DUST CONTROL• WATER HAULING

• REGISTERED ON-SITE WASTEWATER PRACTITIONER

• HEAVY DUTY TOWING• CERTIFIED TRAFFIC CONTROL

• WRECKMASTER CERTIFIED• EXCAVATION & SKIDD STEER SERVICE

• BOB CAT SERVICES• FIRE SUPPRESSION

• PUMP TRUCK • READY MIX CONCRETE

She Is Looking for Home Improvement Help. Will She Find Your Business?

Advertise your business for as low as $16/weekCall for more information or come in to the Times #14-74 Young Road

250-674-3343

Auto Repair & Towing

HindleMotors

Automotive Repair • Used Auto Parts • Mobile Repairs Designated Vehicle Inspection • C.V.I. Inspections

Commercial Truck & EQ Repair Fully Licensed Technicians

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

OFFICE: 250-674-3123or CELL: 250-674-1427

••NOW DOING COMMERCIAL TRUCK REPAIR••

NELS HINDLE

#UsedHelpsA division of


Thought of the week

It doesn’t

matter where

you are coming

from. All that

matters is where

you are going.

– Brian Tracy

1655 Lucky Strike Place | Kamloops, BC | V1S 1W5 | Phone: 250-374-6690 | Toll Free: 1-800-661-2025

ROAD MAINTENANCE (THOMPSON) INC.

Check Before you go! www.DriveBC.ca

Thought Thought of the week

It doesn’t

matter where

you are coming

from. All that

matters is where

you are going.

– Brian Tracy


ROAD MAINTENANCE (THOMPSON) INC.

Check Before you go!www.DriveBC.ca

Road Maintenance (thoMpson) inc. Check Before you go! www.DriveBC.ca

Be extremely cautious when approaching highway maintenance vehiclessuch as snow plows and salt or sand trucks. Maintain a safe following distance. These vehicles throw up snow and spray making it difficult to see.


Wells Gray Country

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

Dec. 12: Voices United Community Choir presents “Love Came Down at Christmas.” Clearwater Com-munity Baptist Church, admission by donation, starts 4 pm.

Dec. 13: Kids day with Santa, Blackpool Fire Hall, 11 am – 2 pm

Dec. 13: Craft Sale, 9 am – 3 pm, Elks HallDec. 11: Welcome to Winter Dance, Blue River Up-

per Legion HallDec. 16: Raft Mtn Skating Club Winter Session regis-

tration, 4-6 pm, @ NT Sportsplex.Dec. 31: Bullarama and/or Dance, NT Agriplex, Bar-

riere. Doors open 6 pm, www.fallfair-rodeo.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT• Indoor Market: Every Saturday May – Oct, 9 am – 12 noon, Elks

Hall.

• Tuesday Morning Coffee (TMC): Meets 10am – 11:30 @ Clearwa-ter Community Baptist Church. All women and children welcome. (9:30-10 am Bible Study). Info 250-674-3624

• Women in Business Luncheon: Last Wed. of the mth at Wells Gray Inn, 12–2 pm. Preregister at 250-674-2700

• Crafts & Conversations with Cheryl. Tuesdays 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the North Thompson Aboriginal Sharing Center. Phone 250-674-3703 for more info.

• Clearwater Farmers’ Market May – Oct. Saturdays 9am– Noon. For more info please call Anne at 250-674-3444.

• M&M (Mrs. & Ms.) Social. Last Sun of the mth Wells Gray Inn. 1pm: 250-587-6503

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

• Clearwater Elks Bingo - 2nd & 4th Wed. Elks Hall 5pm, Info call Phyllis 250-674-3535

• Cribbage Wed. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 12:30 pm.• Fun Darts Fri. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 6 pm.

• Upstream Community and Heritage Society open house Tues-days: 9am-9pm @ Avola School House, various activities. Info ph Fay 250-678-5302.

• Voices United Community Choir- every Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 at the Catholic Church of St. James.

• Thompson Valley Quilters. Meet 2nd Wed. and 3rd Mon. of the mth at NTAC in the DLCC, 9 am - 4 pm. Info Linda 250-674-3437 or Dorothy 250-676-9270

• Vavenby Needle Arts Group. Meet every Tues. 11am - 4pm at Vavenby Community Center. Info Dorothy 250-676-9270

CHILDREN & FAMILIES• Racoon StrongStart - Raft River Elem school days Mon, Tues, Thurs

& Fri 8:45-11:45am

• Racoon StrongStart - Vavenby Elm school days Wed 8:50-11:50am

• Clearwater Breastfeeding Group: 3rd Wed. of every month 7:30pm @ YCS

• Mother Goose - Monday mornings, reg. Kerry 250-674-3530

HEALTH & HEALING• Hospice Grief Support: 2nd Thur of every mth, NT Funeral Home

1-3 pm, info 250-674-2400

• Shambhala Meditation Group: meets every Tuesday at Forest House 6:30-8:00 pm. Info: 250-674-3233.

• Connections Healing Rooms - Wed. 1-3pm (except stat. holidays). 86 Young Rd. No charge. Sponsored by Living Streams Christian Church. www.healingrooms.com.

• Healthy Choices – Tues 9am Clearwater Christian Church bsmnt (behind Fields). $2/wk drop-in free. Kim 250-674-0224

• Clearwater & District Hospice 3rd Mon. Sept-Jun 10am Legion 778-208-0137.

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. 250-674-3675

• Clearwater Sno-Drifters: 1st Thurs every mth. 250-676-9414

• CNT Rod & Gun Club: 3rd Tues. of the mth. Blackpool Hall 7pm Nov., Jan., & Mar. AGM in May

• Volleyball: Winter, dates TBA, at Clearwater Secondary School Gym, $2 drop in. Info: 250-674-1878.

• Youth Group: ages 12-18, Fri. 7-10 pm Dutch Lake Community Center, arts & crafts, gymnastics, games & special events, info 250-674-2600

• Yoga Tree – Call or email Annie 250-674-2468 [email protected]

• Core Strength Fitness. Tuesdays. 10-11am 250-674-0001

• Badminton: Mon & Wed, Oct – Mar, CSS gym, 7:30-9:30 pm, $3 drop-in fee, info 250-674-2518

• Drop in Basketball: Winter, dates TBA, $2 drop in at Clearwater Secondary School Gym. Info: 250-674-1878

• Slo-Pitch: Clearwater mixed Slo-Pitch league May – July. Contact Carmen Archibald 778-208-1773, 250-674-2632

• Drop in Soccer: June -Sept, tues and Thurs, 6:30-8:00 PM, CSS � eld, $2 drop in, grade 8 to adult

SENIORS• BUNCO: 3rd Tue of every mth, Dutch Lake Seniors Drop-in Centre,

1:30 – 3 pm, info 250-674-2400

• 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 mth 2pm at the library. All seniors welcome.

• WGCSS Writers Circle: Meets 1st & 3rd Thur. @ Library

UPCOMING EVENTS

ONGOING EVENTS

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

Business Fundamentals Certi� cateJanuary 18 – May 6, 2016CareersAre you looking for training in the Clearwater area? The Business Fundamentals Certi� cate prepares students for employment in a variety of o� ce positions such as receptionist, bookkeeper, website administrator or personal assistant.Provides the basic o� ce skills needed to secure some entry-level o� ce administration positions and is ideal for those students who can only spend a short time in schoolAdmission Requirements

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Please call Sylvia Arduini @ 250-674-3530 ext. 107 or email to [email protected] for further informationFunding assistance may be available through the Employment Program of BC. Please contact Clearwater WorkBC @ 250.674-2928 for more information.


Box 67, 100 Mile House B.C. V0K 2E0

BEFORE YOU SELL:• ASPEN • BIRCH • COTTONWOOD• PINE • SPRUCE • FIR PULP LOGS

Please call KATHERINE LEPPALA(250) 395-6218 (direct line) • (250) 395-0584 (cell)

(250) 395-6201 (fax)

Local Christmas Trees4’ - 16’ • starting at $17.00@ Rooted By The River Nursery • 250-674-7111

Fri - Sat - MonSupporting the Food Bank

Information

APPLYING FOR Canada Pen-sion Plan disability benefi ts? Increase your chance of suc-cess. Call the Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic. Call 1-877-793-3222 www.dcac.ca or email: [email protected]

CANADA BENEFIT Group - Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canada-benefi t.ca/free-assessment

Clearwater Alcoholics Anonymous

Sunshine Group meets every Tuesday, 8 pm, Elks Hall

72 Taren Dr.Open to Everyone

For info contact Wendy 250-587-0026

Do you need help with reading, writing or math?

FREE confi dential adult tutoring available.• Clearwater Literacy

250-674-3530• Barriere Literacy

250-672-9773

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY GIFT CORNER

Located just inside the hospital main doors

Monday to Thursday10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Beautiful gift itemsfor all occasions

Safe Home Response Providing a safe place to

escape for women and their children.

Volunteers always needed. Clearwater 250-674-2135,Barriere 250-672-6444, or

North Thompson Valley 1-855-674-2135

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY THRIFT SHOP

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

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

Great deals - low prices

Travel

TimeshareCANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program stop mort-gage & maintenance pay-ments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consul-tation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

TravelSAVE 30% on our Greenland and Wild Labrador Voyage un-til December 18, 2015 - See Labrador as it was meant to be seen - By Sea - Aboard the comfortable Ocean Endea-vour. No extra charge for sin-gles! Quote Community News-papers! Call tollfree: 1-800-363-7566 or visit us online: www.adventurecanada.com (TICO # 04001400).

Employment

Business Opportunities

GET FREE vending machines can earn $100,000 + per year. All cash-locations provided. Protected Territories. Interest free fi nancing. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629 website www.tcvend.com

HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in walking/dress-ing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 re-fund. Apply today for assis-tance: 1-844-453-5372.

Career Opportunities

HEALTHCARE DOCUMEN-TATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Con-tact us now to start your train-ing day. www.canscribe.com. 1-800-466-1535 or email to: [email protected]

Education/Trade Schools

START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Infor-mation Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765.

Medical/DentalMEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: Care-erStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Services

Photography / VideoPHOTOS

by Keith McNeillDigital and fi lm photographs.

Phone 250-674-3252 or email:[email protected]

• Indoor Storage Units • Offi ce space with equipment storage available. Hwy access for convenience & [email protected] Yellowhead Hwy 5

PlumbingFULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, re-liable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1-800-573-2928.

Merchandise for Sale

AppliancesFor sale: Washer in good working order. $150.00 obo. Call 250-587-6151

Estate Sales1200 sq. ft. house. 3 bdrm, 2 bath, .79 acre w/fruit trees, garden area, 600 sq ft shop, & 300 sq ft woodshed. Located on Peavine Rd. $120,000. obo. Ph 1-250-318-7235

Misc. for SaleROMANCE Your Christmas

Local BC Adult RetailerShop Online Now & Receive 25% OFF! www.shagg.ca

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSaw-mills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

STEEL BUILDING sale. “Really big sale-year end clear out!” 21x22 $5,190 25x24 $5,988 27x28 $7,498 30x32 $8,646 35x34 $11,844 42x54 $16,386. One end wall includ-ed. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca

Food ProductsFood Products

Announcements Announcements Services Merchandise for Sale

Christmas Corner Information Moving & Storage Misc. WantedPrivate Coin Collector BuyingCollections, Olympic Gold &Silver Coins, Estates Jewelry+Chad: 1-778-281-0030 Local.

Real Estate

Apt/Condos for SaleClearwater: 1 bdrm Income Apartment w/long term tenant. Ground fl oor. Asking $57,000.Call 250-292-8418

For Sale By OwnerFor Sale or Rent: 225 Murtle Cres, 3 bdrm, 3.5 bath, dbl heated garage, rent for $1,150/mo + util. For Sale: 208 Dutch Lk. Rd, 3 bdrm, 1/2 duplex, 2 full bath, $125,000.00. Offers. Call 250-674-3668

Rentals

Apt/Condo for RentClearwater: 1 bdrm apt in Triplex, own entrance, close to shopping, $500/mo. Avail now. Call Julie 250-674-0188

Commercial/Industrial

Commercial space avail for rent in the Interior Whitewater Bldg. starting Jan. 1/2016. Spacious, bright, clean, like new. Close to amenities. 675 sqft, $500/mo. 73 Old North Thompson Hwy, Clearwater. Ph 250-674-3727

Duplex / 4 PlexClearwater: Lg 3-bdrm suite in triplex. Has deck, close to town. $800.00/mo. Ph Julie 250-674-0188

Mobile Homes & Pads

Vavenby: 2 bdrm covered mo-bile w/addition on priv lot. W/D, F/S. Ref req. $675/mo + DD. Pets neg. Avail Dec. 1Call 250-676-9210

Homes for RentClearwater: 2-bdrm town-house. Close to shopping, f/s, w/d, dw. Avail Jan. 1, $900/mo + DD. Call Julie 250-674-0188

CLWTR-2BED House, DD and Ref Reqd. No Smoking. $1120/m inc Utilities.Avail Dec 1. 778 220 5884 or 250 851 3858.

Lake side cabin near Barriere $625/mth heat incld. NS, NP, lrg. balcony, boating, swim-ming, fi shing at your door step. 778-773-2465 or 778-928-4084

Rooms for RentClearwater: Room for rent in Weyerhaeuser sub. Wi-Fi, Sat TV. Nice clean place. NS, NP. $500/mo, incl laundry and util. Call 250-674-1768

To advertise in print:Call: 250-674-3343 Email: [email protected]

Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

Browse more at:

A division of

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PETS & LIVESTOCK

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

RENTALS

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LEGAL NOTICES FightBack.Volunteeryour time,energy andskills today.

Quit.Before your time

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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. 10 - Dec. 16, 2015

Aries, a conversation takes you to a place you did not expect. Now that it’s out in the open, you may be able to breathe a sigh of relief. Don’t hesitate to express yourself.

Cancer, although you may want to swoop in and help a friend in need, give this person the space he or she needs right now. In the long run, this approach will prove more helpful.

Libra, you have a knack for avoiding complex issues that pop up this week. But this will only last so long, and before long you will have to face some hard decisions.

Capricorn, you may be catching glimpses of what is around the corner, but you’re not ready to take the first step in that direction. This will happen soon enough.

Your moods are fluc-tuating regularly, Aquarius. Voice your feelings and it will help you address any insecuri-ties or other issues that are on your mind.

Taurus, though you usually lean toward being practical, you may find yourself on an unexpected journey this week that highlights your spontaneous side.

You have a chance to push limits and boundaries this week, Leo. Take every opportunity that comes your way to try something new. You never know what you will discover.

It can be frighten-ing to reveal your deepest feelings, Scorpio. However, when a friend comes to you bearing his or her soul, you may have to dig deep and share your own experiences.

It may seem like you’re working on jobs for others, but behind it all, you’re actually working on yourself, Pisces.

You have several different ways to ex-press your creativity this week, Gemini; you simply have to find the outlet that works best for you right now. Experi-ment with different options.

Virgo, you may not be able to escape all of your daily responsibilities right now, but you can certainly daydream some of them away. Take this chance to clear your mind.

Health goals be-come more pressing as various issues weigh on your mind, Sagittarius. Work with a doctor to develop a plan for moving forward in a healthy way.

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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. 10 - Dec. 16, 2015

Aries, a conversation takes you to a place you did not expect. Now that it’s out in the open, you may be able to breathe a sigh of relief. Don’t hesitate to express yourself.

Cancer, although you may want to swoop in and help a friend in need, give this person the space he or she needs right now. In the long run, this approach will prove more helpful.

Libra, you have a knack for avoiding complex issues that pop up this week. But this will only last so long, and before long you will have to face some hard decisions.

Capricorn, you may be catching glimpses of what is around the corner, but you’re not ready to take the first step in that direction. This will happen soon enough.

Your moods are fluc-tuating regularly, Aquarius. Voice your feelings and it will help you address any insecuri-ties or other issues that are on your mind.

Taurus, though you usually lean toward being practical, you may find yourself on an unexpected journey this week that highlights your spontaneous side.

You have a chance to push limits and boundaries this week, Leo. Take every opportunity that comes your way to try something new. You never know what you will discover.

It can be frighten-ing to reveal your deepest feelings, Scorpio. However, when a friend comes to you bearing his or her soul, you may have to dig deep and share your own experiences.

It may seem like you’re working on jobs for others, but behind it all, you’re actually working on yourself, Pisces.

You have several different ways to ex-press your creativity this week, Gemini; you simply have to find the outlet that works best for you right now. Experi-ment with different options.

Virgo, you may not be able to escape all of your daily responsibilities right now, but you can certainly daydream some of them away. Take this chance to clear your mind.

Health goals be-come more pressing as various issues weigh on your mind, Sagittarius. Work with a doctor to develop a plan for moving forward in a healthy way.

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674-3717

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In the Rockies, May 2013, with Aussie company

We were about to leave Emerald Lake, clouds parting enough to see surrounding mountains reflected in its clear water, and were remarking on the brightening green as sunshine increased.

As we looked back towards the small bridge we had just crossed, a chipmunk darted across the rough surface of the road and disappeared into the brush beside the creek which drains the lake. For Aussies, these small critters are reason enough for comments and “admi-ration”.

The next animal sighted was much less common. A short-tailed weasel poked itself up on the side of the road from which the chipmunk had come. “Aha!” said John. “Now we know why that chipmunk was moving so fast.”

The weasel, observing the bus-loads of people coming and going, bobbed up and down in different places,

but was unwilling to cross amongst all the feet. By then, it had worked its way along to the edge of the bridge.

Here, it too dis-appeared, but only temporarily, emerg-ing from beneath the woodwork and onto the rocks that were part of the founda-tion, before being swallowed up by the spring flora and fauna. I use the word “swallowed” on pur-pose; a squeak and a squawk seconds later told us that the chip-munk had not been successful in eluding its pursuer. The wea-sel had captured its lunch.

Now in Newfoundland, September, 2013

Bestest buddy Joan and I had been direct-ed to Brighton from Triton for a spectacu-lar, late afternoon hike and were driving back to our digs.

Rounding a corner, we were stopped by a major collection of vehicles and spectators on section of dark highway. “Oh no!” we said. “An accident….” I wound down the window as a gal began to walk past. “What has happened?” we asked fearfully.

“Oh,” she respond-ed brightly. “We were watching two bull moose fighting. They were here for the lon-gest time – but they just left.” What a sight that must have been, and we “just” missed it.

A big bird puzzle – Much closer to home

As I drove towards Sunshine Valley across Clearwater River on the one-lane bridge recently, I noted a bald eagle perched aloft on a leafless birch.

“Hey, there’s more!” I grinned to myself upon seeing another just below it and three others in trees nearby. I slowed right down.

These non-smiling birds have been a favourite ever since I came to the North American continent in 1963. Inching for-wards, hoping not to send them skyward, I suddenly observed that they were far from being alone.

Down on the snowy ground close to where the river rafters’ bus awaits its passen-gers, was a conspiracy of ravens. They were feasting on a partial carcass discarded there, no doubt by human hands.

“How come you ravens are at the table filling your beaks while your much larg-er ‘feathered friends’ with more ferocious beaks just watch?” I questioned from within my vehicle. Everyone was far too busy to reply, so I still don’t know the answer to that reasonable question.

As I drove on, the road curving up as short steep hill, I noticed two more eagles. One was an adult, but the other was smaller, its feath-ers variegated dark and not so dark.

The juvenile was yet to grow and dis-play the typical white tail tips and white head which gave the bald eagle its name. They took time out to watch my progress, but didn’t supply an answer to the puzzle either.

On the other hand, I would have been rather shocked if they’d squawked out in unison: “We’ve already eaten. That lot just gets the left-overs!”

18 -19ObituaryIN LOVING MEMORY Frances Teresa Hanna

Nee Russill

Frances Teresa Hanna Nee Russill regretfully passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 28, 2015.

Frances, a wife like no other, a mother like no other and a retired nurse like no other.

Predeceased by her parents Frank and Ida Russill, sister Judith, brother-in-law Horst Holwein, sister-in-law Rose, brother-in-law Glen Hanna.

Left to mourn, husband, Keith and beloved son Bruce and Bruce’s very special companion Lisa Dyer.

Donations in Frances' memory may be made toward: Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, 640 Park Drive, Clearwater B.C., V0E 1N1. Flowers gratefully declined.

The Memorial Service for Frances will take place on Sunday, December 13, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the Kamloops Funeral Home Chapel, 285 Fortune Drive.

Condolences may be emailed to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

Sharing space with our wild neighbours

TrekkingTales

By Kay Knox


18 -19

Eleanor Deckert

What is worth preserv-ing? Who is responsible?

The North Thompson Valley has such a young and fragile history. Who will protect it?

How soon will a perma-nent, formal museum be founded? So much data is available now which is fad-ing every year.

Fire destroyed the Blue River Hotel and train sta-tion ... but Janie’s Store remains.

The old steel Bailey bridge spanning the Clearwater River was dis-assembled ... but the old wooden Mad River bridge remains.

The McMurphy and Candle Creek log school houses were relocated ... but the Avola log school house remains.

Industrial sites such as the roundhouse in Blue River, the sawmill in Avola, the ferry crossing in Vavenby, and all of the sec-tion houses along the rail-way have been taken down ... but cement foundations remain.

Log cabins, barns, stores, post offices stand empty and abandoned until they crumble and decay ... a few champions remain.

The Anglican Church in Birch Island is now privately owned and the Evangelical Free Church in Blue River is now a B&B ... but Our Lady of the Snow Catholic Church in Blue River remains.

Grave sites on private land may have permanent or wooden markings ... some are lost in time ... some names and dates remain.

Photographs, stories, newspaper clippings, maps, letters, artifacts, collec-tions, family possessions

... all of these and also larger fixtures are physical reminders of the families, activities, technology, econ-omy, hopes and limitations of the people who lived in the past where we stand today.

Human error can be destructive, too. Will a new owner allow a previous owner time to remove per-sonal items? Will a death bring such stress within the extended family that items are discarded?

In a small attempt to bring awareness of historic topics, I have written approximately 40 Valley Voices columns. Recording interviews with men and women over 80 years old, sifting through the Kamloops archives, making notes from the “North River” and “North Thompson Reflections” as well as leafing through local information in the Clearwater Library have yielded fascinating details.

There is so much more. I need to step away from this column for awhile, but have high hopes that

other writers will contact the Times or Star Journal and give this project a try. It’s good practice; perhaps you will gain enough confi-dence to write a book!

I leave the reader with one more story.

Decision-making on the best use

Residents in Avola are trying to research, remember and understand this question, “Is a slab of cement an historic object?”And the owners of the playground where the cement slab is located are considering, “Shall it be removed or resurfaced?”

There was a time before hydro-electricity.

In fact, up until around 1968 electric generators supplied many small towns in this area, including Avola.

Since the early 1950s the store had its own genera-tor. The Emil Anderson Construction machine shop had its own setup of generators to keep equip-ment repaired while the highway was being built.

Bunkhouses and a 21-site mobile home park also had power supplied this way. Jim McCoy looked after several big generators that the sawmill kept running.

One centrally located generator supplied the company houses in Avola. Wiring ran along the out-side of the wall.

Bob Dhillon remem-bers, as a child, the thump-ing of the three-cylinder engine making it hard to fall asleep. Lights were off early as the generator was shut off at 10 p.m. every night.

The generator sat on a cement pad in the middle of town. Dave Jensen was 19 years old when he had the job of re-fueling. He used a hand-pump to take fuel out of train cars and into a tank on the back of his pick up truck, and then pump it again into the gen-erator’s fuel tank.

Lights saved livesYet, this ordinary look-

ing block of concrete has another meaning. Kevin Deckert recalls an episode

of ‘Front Page Challenge’ featuring an interview with a pilot and navigator who were flying through the mountains.

As darkness approached, they realized they needed to regain their bearings. The lights on the compass, altimeter and fuel gauge failed and the navi-gator reached around the pilot, flicking his lighter again and again to illumi-nate the instrument panel.

And then, they saw the lights of the town of Avola. Reoriented, they continued on, arriving safely at their destination.

The men summed it up: “We didn’t realize at the time that the genera-tor in Avola was routinely turned off at 10 p.m. Our flight above the town was at about 9:30 p.m. Without that light, we would have been wandering and lost

with a very different end-ing to our story.”

The cement pad is with-in the playground pres-ently owned and managed by Area B’s Thompson Headwaters services com-mittee. Decisions will soon be made to improve the playground.

A delegation was to speak at the Dec. 15 meet-ing in Avola, requesting that the cement pad be repaired, left in place and incorporated into the play-ground’s plan.

Bob Jensen, the only person who has lived nearby and in Avola for his whole life, said, “It’s more than a nostalgic ‘I remem-ber.’ It’s a reminder that until recently everyone did things ‘the old way.’ And it is significant that this generator played a part in a dramatic aviation story of B.C.”

Is Avola's concrete pad a heritage site to be preserved?

A nondescript concrete pad in Avola is the site of a diesel generator that formerly provided elec-tricity to the community. It is located next to a playground that the Area B (Thompson Headwaters) services committee plans to replace next year. The services committee will discuss what to do with the pad during its Dec. 15 meeting. Photo by Eleanor Deckert

An arrow on an aerial photo shows the location of a concrete pad in Avola. Photo submitted

Cathy McLeod, MPKamloops-Thompson-CaribooCathy McLeod, MPKamloops-Thompson-Cariboo

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Clearwater Times, December 10, 2015