North Island Gazette, December 20, 2012 by Black Press Media Group

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012

GAZETTE

30,000

NORTH ISLAND

22,212.78

This space is sponsored by www.harrisnissan.ca

Gazette H Hamper Fund

Publications Mail Agreement No. 391275

47th Year No. 51

THURS., DECEMBER 20, 2012 EDITORIAL Page 6

LETTERS Page 7

www.northislandgazette.com NORTH ISLAND LIFE Page 11

SPORTS Page 13

Newsstand $1.25 + HST CLASSIFIEDS Pages 16-18

RCMP seek leads in break-in

And the

winner is ... Young Gazette staff helper William Harrison carefully and diligently selects a winner from the 1,000+ entries in the annual Shop Local contest last week. The winner’s photo appears on page 15. J.R. Rardon

Gazette staff PORT HARDY—RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in finding the perpetrators of a series of breakins and thefts from property in Fort Rupert. Sometime during the night of Nov. 24, individuals broke into the Youth Center, the Big House and a storage container in the Fort Rupert area. The door to the Youth Center was forced open and items were removed and left outside in the rain. The Big House door was damaged to gain entry. The pool table balls were stolen and later recovered along the nearby beach. The locks to a storage container were cut off and multiple items including hand and power tools were stolen. “I think it was just some kids,” said Maurice Wadhams, who had several tools taken from the storage container. “They got some drills and knives, but they left some expensive things.” Wadhams said flare guns taken in the theft were also recovered at the beach, with the flares having been fired. RCMP said the same individuals may also be responsible for vandalism and theft from a nearby grave that happened during the same time. Anybody with any information regarding these crimes, please contact the Port Hardy RCMP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477).

CDC issues seafood health alert Gazette staff Vancouver—The BC Centre for Disease Control is warning the public not to consume various shellfish and seafood products from a private distributor in Port Hardy because of the risk

of paralytic shellfish poisoning and botulism. Products sold include: • Frozen clams (butter clams and possibly others) in small and large Ziploc bags; • Jarred clams (butter

clams and possibly others) in 500 ml and 1000ml jars; • Frozen BBQ salmon; and • Canned salmon pieces in clam juice. Other similar products may have also been dis-

tributed. The products were for sale online and through a Buy and Sell ad on www. buyselltrade.ca but may have also been distributed through other mechanisms. There is no identify-

ing packaging or product code on these items. These products may have been distributed throughout the province. To date BCCDC is not aware of the products being made available through retail or restau-

rants. Anyone who may have purchased these products should not consume them, and discard them. Cooking

Merry Christmas

from our family to yours

NEWS: editor@northislandgazette.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: 250-949-6225

See page 3 ‘Seafood poses’

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SD85 to report on student achievement A O’Toole Gazette staff In his Report on Achievement, Superintendent Scott Benwell brought the Board up to speed on some of the benchmarks set by students in the previous year. The report, a requirement under the School Act, is generated each year and submitted to the Ministry to provide an account of student achievement and to provide a basis for future planning efforts. Some of the highlights Benwell touched on were improvements for all students in the BC First Nations Studies 12 and English 10 First Peoples. In the Year 12 course, Benwell noted an “across the board increase, it’s a pleasure to report,” while in the Year 10 course, a relatively new course, he announced a good increase

deepened our focus on a reduced funding that the couple of reading goals,” District faces due to declinshe explained. “We know ing enrolment. The issue was initially early readers must be focused on or else each raised at the last meeting, when the Board heard that year the gap widens.” a managed budShe reiterSchool geting strategy, ated the goal of Board reducing spendhaving all reading year-on-year ers meeting or exceeding their reading in accordance with certain level by Grade 5. A second principles — such as pregoal is to narrow the gap serving permanent employin course work marks and ment positions if viable exam marks to less than alternatives for cuts exist — was the best option for 10%. As Superintendent maintaining the financial Benwell touched on in his health of the District. The item was brought Report on Achievement, reading level is seen as a to the table by Treasurer good, reliable indicator of John Martin, asking for the Board’s approval to use the future success. principles outlined in preparing a draft budget. Financial planning After questions from Planning for the longterm financial health of Trustee Jeff Field seeking the District returned to the clarification on some of the table this week as the Board terms used in the document, heard again that steps need the motion was carried. On a separate financial to be taken to counter the

in C+ or better grades and a 100% pass rate. He also noted an improvement in English 12, Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 10, and Pre-Calculus courses. Benwell also thanked Lori Walker for her technical expertise in assembling the report. “We’re establishing a baseline that we can track, and we’re seeing improvements which is great.” Some targets laid out included improving the literacy levels of young readers. “Our focus on reading is not going away any time soon,” he concluded. Reading strategy Assistant Superintendent for the District, Katherine McIntosh, told the Board of the intention to continue the District’s focus on its Reading Strategy. “We’ve intentionally

Single-Lane Traffic off Kokish River Bridge onto Telegraph Cove Road FISH HATCHERY

RAILWAY CROSSING

Te leg ra ph

Stage 1 Detour

h kis Ko

in Ma

er Riv

ish pk Nim

ad Ro ve Co er av Be

Power House

ILW AY

Co ve

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Stage 2 Detour Penstoc

HIGHWAY BRIDGE

RAILWAY BRIDGE

For your safety and the safety of our workers, watch for work crews, equipment and traffic control personnel. Observe construction signs and reduce driving speed in the construction zone. The Kokish River Hydroelectric Project is being designed and built to produce electricity from run-of-river waterpower generation. Featuring a very low ecological footprint during construction and operation, the project will deliver clean and reliable electricity to help meet the future energy needs of British Columbia. Visit kokishriver.com for more information.

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GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND

Fort Rupert Trustees enjoyed their visit to Fort Rupert Elementary School last week with Trustee Eric Hunter describing the staff as “very accommodating” and Trustee Danita Schmidt “impressed with the President’s school plan and the energy.” Trustee Field said he was “continually amazed by K-teachers’ energy and patience,” with the rest of the trustees unanimous in praising the visit.

WiFi Trustee Werner Manke informed the Board during Trustee Sharing that he had read reports of electro-magnetic radiation from Wi-Fi sources being a health hazard, and asked if the rest of the Board had heard similar reports and whether the District was aware of any danger posed. Treasurer John Martin responded to calm Manke’s concerns, telling him that Health Canada sets the standard on these matters, and that they, like other similar health bodies internationally, had found no evidence of any risk from the radiofrequency energy emitted by Wi-Fi equipment. “I just think it’s something we should keep our radar up for,” argued Manke. Martin again assured him that Health Canada found the radiation well within tolerable limits.

Seafood poses health risk

PUBLIC NOTICE Residents and visitors in the Beaver Cove area are advised that single-lane traffic off the Kokish River Bridge onto Telegraph Cove Road will continue until the end of January to accommodate construction of the Kokish River hydroelectric project.

issue, Martin was pleased to announce approval of funding for three new school buses for the District, seeking three readings of Bylaw 113759 for Board approval. Seeing no opposition to three readings, Chair Leightan Wishart called for and got approval for the Bylaw readings.

from page 1 will not destroy the toxins associated with paralytic shellfish poisoning or botulism. The symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning include: tingling; numbness, spreading from lips and mouth to face, neck and extremities; dizziness; arm and leg weakness; paralysis; respiratory failure; and possibly

death. Symptoms start quickly, within 30 minutes to three hours. Botulism is a serious, often fatal form of food poisoning. The illness is due to a toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that is found everywhere, but grows and produces botulinum toxin when foods are improperly canned. The symptoms of

botulism include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. Constipation may occur. Symptoms generally begin 18-36 hours after eating a contaminated food. The products in the current warning were harvested from an area closed to shellfish har-

vesting, and were not processed at a government-approved facility. Anyone who has consumed these products and has become ill should report their illness to their local public health office and see a physician if symptoms persist or become severe. Call the 24-hour HealthLink BC Line at 8-1-1 for more information.

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Happy Holidays!

4 www.northislandgazette.com

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DRINKING & DRIVING IS A SLIPPERY ROAD When you drink and drive, chances are you’ll slip up behind the wheel. During the holiday season and year-round, act responsibly and ﬁnd another way home if you’ve been drinking. Designate a sober driver, call a cab or ask a friend for a ride. And if you think that’s a hassle, consider how inconvenient it will be to lose your license.

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com 5

Xandryn Frost helps Marli Webb locate numbers on her bingo cards Saturday during the annual Lions Club Turkey Bingo event in Port McNeill. J.R. Rardon

Fundraiser is no turkey Gazette staff PORT McNEILL— The Gazette Hamper Fund is in its 33rd year of helping needy North Island families and individuals with meals and toys at Christmas time. The Port McNeill Lions Club did its own part to provide a traditional holiday meal Saturday with its annual Turkey Bingo event, which awarded frozen turkeys to bingo winners who contributed to the hamper fund with both food donations and their bingo card fees. By the time the proceeds were tallied, the Lions were able to donate more than $500 to the Hamper Fund,

aided in part by the overwhelming turnout for the event. “The crowd was bigger than normal,” said Pierre Le Gal of the Port McNeill Lions. “Last year we had 70 or 75 people, at best. This year we had a least 85. It was a pretty good turnout.” The North Island Eagles atom development hockey team followed in the footsteps of the rep program’s big guys Saturday, providing several boxes and bags of toys and non-perishable food items to the Hamper

Fund after its series of December hockey games at North Island arenas. The Eagles players each brought in a toy and invited both fans and visiting teams to donate food or toys. T h e C o m o x C h i e f s obliged with several donations Saturday in Port McNeill, and two weeks earlier in Port Alice the Sooke Thunderbirds did the same — and helped out the local economy, to boot. “Some of the Sooke parents went out

and bought things to donate to the Hamper Fund,” atoms manager Melanie Gage said. “They said they forgot we were doing the Hamper drive, but still wanted to help.” The staff of Eagle View Elementary School also contributed to the fund, forgoing its traditional holiday gifts and instead turning over $200 to the Hamper Fund this week. Hampers will be delivered Saturday, mostly in the late morning and early afternoon. Recipients who have applied for hampers are reminded they need to be home at the time of delivery to receive a hamper.

Kate Green of Port McNeill accepts her turkey from Port McNeill Lions Club member Mel Ward during Saturday’s annual Turkey Bingo night.

Nowlable i Ava

FOOD DRIVE

Purchase a bag of pre-selected non-perishable food items for $9.99 & donate it to the Hamper Fund at these grocery stores:

Holiday Hours The office will be closed Dec. 25 & 26, 2012 and Jan. 1, 2013.

Early Deadlines:

For Dec. 27 issue:

Display: Tues. Dec. 18 @ 4pm Classified ads: Thurs. Dec. 20 @ 10am

For Jan. 3 issue:

Display: Mon. Dec. 24 @ 12 noon Classified ads: Thurs. Dec. 27 @ 10am

GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND

Donate your points to the

GAZETTE HAMPER FUND and

will match your donation! Members of the North Island Eagles and Comox Valley atom development hockey teams gather following Saturday’s game in Port McNeill with some of the food and toys they helped gather for the Gazette Hamper Fund. J.R. Rardon

GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND

6 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

COMMENTARY Comments? Box 458, Port Hardy, B.C. V0N 2P0 250-949-6225 Fax 250-949-7655 or email us at editor@northislandgazette.com

Merry Christmas A white Christmas came early to the North Island when the first snowfall of the season struck early this week. Granted, the icy road conditions hardly conjure thoughts of peace and goodwill to whiteknuckled motorists, but you have to admit the white powder puts a nice aesthetic touch on the trappings of the holiday. For weeks now, our communities have prepared for the big day. Volunteers have been out and about, ringing bells and hauling food and toys to benefit the most needy. Shoppers have been out getting and wrapping the last (or the first?) of those holiday gifts. Trees have gone up. Lights have been strung. Turkeys and hams have been secured and stored. Wishes have been whispered in Santa’s ear as he made his annual tour of our towns. It is our hope that all our neighbours can enjoy the fruits of this frenzy in the coming week. Get off those slippery roads and gather around the woodstove or fireplace. Bake those sugar cookies, raise a glass in fellowship, sing a carol or two, join celebrants at your local church service. It is a dark time of year, and events in places from Connecticut to Syria show just how black it can get. But each of you has your own light to add to the season. Let it shine. Merry Christmas from the Gazette staff.

We Asked You Question:

Have you finished your Christmas shopping for this year?

Yes 17%

No 83%

www.northislandgazette.com Total votes received for this question:18 Voting deadline is Monday at 3 p.m.

The North Island Eagles midget rep side added another pair of wins this weekend in disciplined displays on home ice.

Thieves broke in to properties at Fort Rupert, causing damage and stealing tools. RCMP are seeking info from the public.

Premier ponders black ink, oil VICTORIA – Premier Christy Clark has completed the traditional round of yearend interviews with legislative press gallery reporters. Here are excerpts from my discussion with her. TF: On the Enbridge project, are you getting the answers you want on safety? PCC: No, we’re not. We’ve set out our position. The five conditions need to be met, period. [B.C.’s conditions are “world-class” land and marine spill prevention and response, meeting legal obligations for aboriginal consultation, passing federal-provincial environmental assessment and a “fair share” of financial benefits.] PCC: We need the oilpatch producers, the Alberta government and the federal government to come to the table. We’ve been cross-examining Enbridge. We have not been getting any of the answers that we hoped to

B.C. Views Tom Fletcher

with

get. We haven’t gained a lot of comfort from that process. And none of the other conditions are even close to being met. TF: Balancing the budget: the finance ministry’s current projections call for an upturn in natural gas royalties in the coming year. With the current glut of gas, isn’t that kind of far-fetched? PCC: It is going to be difficult to present a balanced budget, but I think, because we’re going to build in some [forecast] allowance, as we

The North Island Gazette is published Thursdays at Port Hardy, B.C. by Black Press Ltd. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #391275. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

always do, and because we’re going to be completely transparent about the assumptions that have led us there, and because we aren’t going to fiddle with any of the assumptions that we receive from the experts in the Ministry of Finance, it’s going to be quite clear that we have done it. We have come by a balanced budget honestly. So when it comes to natural gas, you know that the assumption we use in the budget is based on a fairly complex formula that the Ministry of Finance has relied on for probably a decade now. We don’t fiddle with that. There are those who would say we should artificially lower the [revenue projection] number that we use. But if you artificially lower it, what’s to stand in the way of artificially raising it? You either accept the advice of your experts or you don’t. And they’re the experts, not the politicians. A member of

This North Island Gazette 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 B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . REPORTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . SALES REPRESENTATIVE .

. . . .

. Sandy Grenier . . . . JR Rardon Aidan O’Toole . Lisa Harrison

TF: Right now we have a deficit gap of more than a billion dollars. Can that be closed without significant spending cuts, or tax increases, or both? PCC: You will see when we get to the budget. And it will be absolutely transparent how we got there. [Laughs] Nice try. TF: If the B.C. Liberals form a government in May, will the election date be changed so we don’t have to have this discussion about questionable spring election budgets? PCC: It’s not part of the plan today, but I’m sure it’s a discussion we’ll have in the next four years. I know that people have talked about it. I’m open to it. I’m not wedded to this particular date. Next week I’ll have highlights from my year-end interview with NDP leader Adrian Dix. Tom Fletcher is legislative reporter and columnist for Black Press. tfletcher@ blackpress.ca

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www.northislandgazette.com 7

LETTERS editor@northislandgazette.com

Health accessibility a priority for all Dear editor, So, the hospital site has been approved. Good! It is the difference of opinion that makes horse races, wrote Mark Twain. And differences there have been. “I cannot any longer remain quiet about the subject of the new hospital,” writes Louise Jackson in a letter to the editor (Comox Valley Record, Dec. 5). An urge she shares with many previous writers.

She makes excellent points, states her case convincingly. But here is the rub: every letter writer has. Two community hospitals or one large regional. Arguments favour either choice. The problem comes with all the extraneous stuff — site, distance, staffing, cost, accessibility, etc. Ms. Jackson has another curve to throw - TWO regional hospitals, the second “easily accessible to

the residents from upisland, and ... located north of the river.” The Puntledge, presumably. I could not agree more — but for the cost. Two regional hospitals located within 55 kms of each other? Costing a billion dollars at least to build with operational, maintenance and other annual expenses? But she is right. The North Islanders deserve their own modern hospital. Comox Valleyites are simply selfish.

It is 250 kilometres for people in Courtenay to undergo surgery in Victoria. It is double that distance for the folks in Port McNeill, Port Hardy and Port Alice. In fairness, any regional hospital should have been located nearer to Campbell River than to Courtenay. Thus, two community hospitals make good sense as far as timely access is concerned. And that

ought be the main concern. Stocking hospitals with staff is as much a question of desirability for doctors and nurses seeking the balm of Island lifestyles, as it is of a chronic shortage of competent personnel. The fault for which lies elsewhere. In social democratic Scandinavia, general practitioners average 1,600 patients, and must accept patients living within 10 kms. In

Denmark, for example, the 71 hospitals (2000 census) offer 3.7 beds per 1,000 persons, satisfying 90 per cent of the Danes. Anyone think Canada, specifically British Columbia, can muster an equal percentage of contentedness? In truth, I am not happy about the P3 option, either — public-private partnership — but let the hospital be built, let us rejoice in the current status, and

let us hope no one gets sick. Proximity to hospital is a priority for many patients — for ease of access and closeness to family and friends. Amen. Finn SchultzLorentzen, Courtenay Editor’s note: This letter was previously published in the Comox Valley Record

Salmon need real funds Dear editor, In regards to Mr. Tom Fletcher’s column “Salmon mystery far from solved” (North Island Gazette, Nov. 15): Even before salmon farming was on our coast, if you dipped your toe alongside “urban people fishing” rivers like the Puntledge, you would find dead ranch-raised salmon every few yards that were not able to survive the raised water temperatures created by a power dam. Or, if you followed the

Tsolum River, you would see it devoid of all fish and insect life due to toxic runoff from an abandoned copper mine. “Ranch fish,” as you call them, were only meant to be used as an intervention to enhance the gene pool on river systems like these. Knowing that 80 per cent of a Conservation Stamp that you buy with each fishing license never benefits restoration, and that the Conservative government is planning to introduce Bill C-38 which will

Thanks for the support Dear editor, The members of the Port McNeill Hospital Auxiliary would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. Our 2012 was a very busy year. Funds raised went to purchase several items for the hospital. They included: Equinox analgesic gas system, $1,400; digital thermometer, $275; Neopuff infant resuscitator, $1,000; portable examination light, $450; couch and chair for nurse’s residence, $1,200; and two portable DVD players, worth $175. Our fund-raising projects are mainly bake sales and raffles. Look for us at the Community Garage Sales in the spring and fall. Thank you to all that support the Port McNeill Hospital Auxiliary. Sue Wiedenman Port McNeill

Letters to the editor

change the importance of protecting fish habitat and promoting biodiversity, it is easy to see how Mr. Cohen has no confidence his policy (recommendation) will ever be implemented without dedicated funding. “Its fate lies with a cabinet of dreary old men who have lost their capacity for wonder, if indeed they ever had any.” — Roderick Haig Brown Donald Grimway Burnaby

Christmas cheer Students from the Grade 2/3 class at Eagle View Elementary School sing Christmas carols to seniors on a visit last week to Eagle Ridge Lisa Harrison Manor.

Big Beer and political deception Dear editor, Re: Corporate Political Donations – Buying Influence, Langley Times Nov. 27 and 29 (with files from Tom Fletcher). Exercise question for law faculty class: Company A and B donate big $ to political party L expecting to influence market protection in return. Company C donates more $ lately to party L, and C’s president attends fundraiser with PR gifts to influence L’s minister. Political party L’s minister quid-pro-quos the favour and grants company C its increased production tax relief. Is there any malfeasance? Looks like Big Beer thought some $327,000 in the last decade should be plenty to persuade our liquor policy min-

ister, Deputy Premier Rich Coleman, to make the right decision and protect its market status. Maybe when you’ve been in power for so long you can’t remember all the really big donors? With the two big breweries in B.C. donating generously in the last five years — Molsons $60,308 and Labatts $65,666 — to the B.C. Liberals, the politicians are expected to play the quid-pro-quo game with complementary reciprocation. The medium-sized brewery Pacific Western from Prince George (with its low-priced ‘Cariboo’ beer) knew it would need some big production tax relief favours too, so has been slipping the Liberals $134,033 since 2005. The company would

be rewarded by Coleman’s penchant to seek votes from all the small brewers and benefit in the multi millions. This would all have gone unnoticed except Pacific Western president Kazuko Komatsu attended Rich Coleman’s Nov.8 political fundraiser with complimentary Cariboo brand beer and donated an auction prize of two tickets to a Bahamas Resort worth $27,000. After Coleman gets embarrassed accepting the gift, he tries to slough it off, saying he returned it and should have checked that party donations were not solicited from those doing current business with his Ministry. You think it’s believable to suggest that he didn’t know he

was doing business with Pacific Western Brewery when he was working on changes to the law to accommodate them? How is this not political skullduggery or at lest brazen willful deception? Big Beer was contacting other Liberal MLAs trying to get Coleman’s favourable Pacific Western decision reversed. Hey, they put their trust in the Liberal politicians and they got screwed so now they know how the rest of us overtaxed, debtinflicted victims feel. This is why there is much to be said about the Federal electoral system where corporations and unions are not allowed to make political donations. Roland Seguin Langley

The goal is to publish every letter, so keep them brief, clear and to the point. Be hard on the problem, not the person; skip quotes except where readily confirmable; accept editing for length and legality. Include full name and home community (plus phone number to confirm authorship). Mail, fax, email or drop off c/o the editor by 4:00 pm Friday.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

8 www.northislandgazette.com

North Island

Hot Spots

December 20 Avalon School Christmas Musical, â€˜The True Meaning of Christmasâ€™, 7 p.m., Storeyâ€™s Beach campus. No admission charge, all are invited. December 21 Christmas Movie Night. 7 p.m. Port Alice Community Centre. Watch a holiday classic on the big screen, $2

MEETINGS & ONGOING EVENTS â€˘ Port Hardy Museum fall hours - now open 10 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Float Camp Life exhibit held over to December. Museum & gift shop closed January for maintenance. â€˘ Quatsino Museum & Archives is open Friday to Sunday from 1:00pm-2:00pm. FMI quatsino.museum@recn.ca â€˘ The German Edelweiss Cultural Club meets Thurs. at 7pm in PH Inn Pub. FMI 250-230-1376. â€˘ Lions Bingo every Thurs. @ Civic Centre. Doors open at 5:30pm. â€˘ Every other Tuesday: Footcare clinic at Hardy Bay Seniors 9-5pm. FMI 1-888-334-8531. â€˘ Third Sunday of every month: Hamburger and hotdog sale from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Hardy Bay Senior's Centre, 9150 Granville St. â€˘ Overeating Anonymous (OA) meetings. FMI call Julia at 250949-7069 or Ann at 250-902-8244. â€˘ The Port Hardy Seniors' Housing Board is looking for volunteers to become a board member. We manage the Rotary Seniors' Centre on Rupert St. Evening mtgs held approx. once a month. FMI Jo-Anne Beek 250-949-6435 or Robert Fyles 250-9492360. â€˘ Every Wednesday, 7-8 p.m. at North Island College in Port Hardy Toastmasters Club, info brianscott03@gmail.com or 250288-3664.

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includes a drink & snack. December 22 Christmas gift wrapping, 1-4 p.m., Cafe Guido in Port Hardy. Fund-raiser for PHSS grad. December 23 A Month of Sundays 11am-4pm at the Coal harbour Activity Centre. Variety of gifts for sale. Art, Jewelry, Sculpture, demonstrations, live music, cookie exchange. Cafe will be serving â€œafternoon Christmas teaâ€? among other things. December 31 New Yearâ€™s Eve party at the Port Alice Royal Canadian Legion Branch 180 Hall. Dance in the New Year with D.J. Matt Reimer. Snacks at midnight, and designated driver available for rides home. Info, 250-284-3256. January 1 Annual Polar Bear Jump, 11:30 a.m., Government Wharf, Port Hardy. Hosted by Port Hardy Lions Club. January 1 Annual Polar Bear swim, 11:45 a.m., Port McNeill Harbour boat launch. Hosted by Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue. January 26 Robbie Burns Dinner at the Port McNeill Legion Branch 281. Highland dancing at 6 p.m. followed by a roast beef dinner with haggis, served by the

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February 23 Reel North Island Film Festival presents Blackbird, 7:30 p.m., PHSS theatre. Ages 19+; tickets $8.50 in advance at Cafe Guido; $10 day of show. Hosted by Grassroots Garden Society; info, 250-230-4243. April 13 Paul Cann Home & Office Reel North Island Film Festival presents Revolution, 7:30 p.m., Port Hardy Secondary School theatre. Ages Remodeling Services 19+, tickets $8.50 in advance at Cafe Guido; $10 day of show. Design ~ Sales ~ Installations

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January 26 Reel North Island Film Festival presents Still, 7:30 p.m., PHSS theatre. Ages 19+; tickets $8.50 in advance at Cafe Guido; $10 day of show. Hosted by Grassroots Garden Society; info, 250-230-4243.

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com 9

Council keeps eye on BC Ferries appeal $20. BC Ferries sucGazette staff PORT HARDY— cessfully argued that, Delta Council sent a since the property is letter to the Mayor only usable as a ferry and Council last week terminal, the property informing them of a was worthless. The decision, curresolution to ask that the Province provide rently under appeal from the protection District for municiCouncil of West palities Meeting Vancouver, against any Port Hardy would cost loss of revethe municinue from the Property Assessment pality hundreds of Appeal Board ruling thousands of dollars in with respect to the BC lost property taxes and the decision, if upheld, Ferry Service. The Horseshoe Bay could be applied at Ferry Terminal had its other ferry terminals. “I think it was somevalue recently reassessed, slashing its thing like $2 million assessed value from Delta had to swallow $47 million to just on that,” said Mayor

Parnham. “It’s something we want to keep a close eye on; we’re in a somewhat similar position.” Originally presented for information, Council voted to add

its support to the resolution. Tsunami pamphlet Mayor Parnham announced that the planned Tsunami Preparedness pam-

late October and the resulting tsunami alert and local evacuation. “We’ve come a long way in the six or so weeks since it happened,” Mayor Parnham said.

weeks. She thanked Jeff Long for his work on the project, and was happy with the progress made in response to the 7.9 earthquake off Haida Gwaii in

phlet will be out “really soon.” The Mayor confirmed the fire department would assist in delivering the pamphlet, going door-todoor in the coming

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

In Midweek Community Futures Mount Waddington has been assisting small businesses on the North Island since 1992. See Midweek.

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Water colour The Nimpkish River is The learning curve is Vancouver Island’s lon- huge every time you gest river. For an artist, do it! thousands of views and About five or six kiloresultant paintings are metres up from Woss possible; therefore, the Camp the highway accompanying photo skirts the Nimpkish represents merely one River as the river makes of thousands of possi- a sharp bend. This is bilities. It’s a view that where a panoramic anyone who has driven view up the river presthe Island ents itself in Highway all its glory. has appreciYou’ve all ated. seen it but E v e r y usually autumn I just short am on the glimpses of lookout for it as you’re fall colours scooting that seem to by, keeping A Brush with your eyes be a bit of Henschel an enigma on the road on North ahead. I with Gordon Island; just have wanted Henschel not as ostento paint this tatious as they are down view forever but the Island or on the main- road is usually too busy land. Scarcities of three to stop alongside the larger trees make all the highway, in case you difference: poplars and are blocking traffic. birches provide yellows On this day I took and oranges while sev- my time and parked a eral varieties of maples long way away from the offer a number of desired view, walking reds. Although we are to it only to discover beginning to see iso- that there was a small, lated splotches of these indistinct access road to trees on North Island, the river at that point. particularly along the Repositioning my vehihighway, the colours cle I was soon parked really begin to appear very near the river, near Woss Camp. sketching my heart out! Several weeks ago I After the recent rains, mortgaged our house to the river was flowing fill the gas tank in our fast and furiously but car and headed down to my surprise, what to look for some hot had been a small dot on colours to add to my the river in the distance, palette. Just down from materialized into a rubNimpkish Camp, they ber raft with a chap begin to play a game hanging a fishing rod of peek-a-boo, benevo- from it! As this maslently relieving the eye ter of the environment from the monotony of passed by and spotted the hundreds of greens me, he queried, “Are to indulge in the unusu- you catching any fish?” al. Wow! How do you I answered him with plan your painting’s a weak, “No”, but felt colours from a half I should be apologizing dozen tubes of yellows that I was painting! and reds in your paintGordon Henschel box when there are owns an art gallery hundreds of different in Nimpkish Heights. shades in front of you? www.henschel.ca

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Firefighter

Gregory Smith says…

Village of Port Alice

Regular Council Meeting Dates In accordance with Section 127 of the Community Charter, the following is the schedule for the Regular Meetings of Council for the Village of Port Alice for 2013. The Regular Council Meetings are held at 7:00 pm in the Municipal Office Council Chambers: 1061 Marine Dr, Port Alice, BC. January 9th, 2013 January23rd,2013 February 13th, 2013 February 27th, 2013 March 13th, 2013 March 27th, 2013 April 10th, 2013 April 24th, 2013 May 8th, 2013 May 22nd, 2013 June 12th, 2013

June 26th, 2013 July 10th, 2013 August 14th, 2013 September 11th, 2013 September 25th, 2013 October 9th, 2013 October 23rd, 2013 November 13th, 2013 November 27th, 2013 December 11th, 2013

Each month Port Hardy Volunteer Fireﬁghters will be bringing you a safety tip.

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Certified a true and correct resolution as passed by Council on the 12th day of December, 2012 ___________________________ Madeline McDonald Chief Administrative Officer

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com 11

North Island Life Festivities take a Village Gazette staff PORT ALICE—Family, friends, feasting — and a visit from Santa Claus, of course — highlighted the weekend at the Community Centre, which hosted Christmas celebrants of all ages in a pair of popular events. The weekend kicked off Friday evening with the annual Senior Pot Luck dinner. The Village sponsored the dinner with turkey, ham and roast beef, while participants provided a wide

range of salads, side dishes and desserts. The next morning it was the kids’ turn to feast, in the annual Breakfast with Santa. Dressed in their holiday finery, the town’s youngsters then joined Santa in the gymnasium for photos and had a chance to create ornaments and bead jewelry at craft tables. They then sat down — or jumped up — for an interactive show of magic, juggling and jokes by magician Greg Ladret.

Clockwise from left: • Olivia Johnson of Port Alice tries a hands-on approach to the Christmas decorations during Saturday’s Breakfast with Santa event at Port Alice Community Centre; • Carson Romphf and other youngsters help magician Greg Ladret pick up the juggling balls he “dropped” during his performance; • Joanna Piniewski and Retta Vezina tuck into the turkey, ham and roast provided by the Village of Port Alice during Friday’s Senior Pot Luck dinner; • Olivia Brussard, Autumn Burton-Young and Zoey Hall exhibit some of the many faces of the Christmas season as they share Santa’s lap for a photo; • Lilly Jorgenson gets some help with a beaded bracelet from Rebecca Rethmeier at the craft table; • Finn Regush prefers the company of his mother, Marnie Boers, to that of Santa Claus during his photo session. J.R. Rardon, Shirley Scott

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12 www.northislandgazette.com Thursday, December 20, 2012

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com 13

SPORTS

RECREATION

Submit results to 250-949-6225 Fax 250-949-7655 or email us at sports@northislandgazette.com • Deadline 10 am Monday

on deck Tell us about items of interest to the sports community. December 29 Men’s hockey B League: Whalers vs. Mainline, 4:45 p.m., Port Hardy. December 30 Men’s hockey B League: Stars vs. Smokers, 8:45 p.m., Port Hardy. January 5 Men’s hockey B League: Matchup tba, 3 p.m., Port Hardy A League: Third annual Gilbert Walkus Memorial Game between the Port Hardy Bulls and Port Hardy Warriors, 4:45 p.m., Don Cruickshank Memorial Arena. January 6 Rep hockey North Island Eagles atom development hosts Campbell River, 11:15 a.m., Port McNeill. January 11-13 Curling Fort Rupert Curling Club annual mixed bonspiel. Saturday dinner, lounge and concession, prizes. Game times tba. Info, 250-949-6463 or Fort Rupert Curling Club on Facebook. Minor hockey Port McNeill Minor Hockey midget tournament, Chilton Arena. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, finals 8 a.m.1 p.m. Sunday. Raffle table, 50/50 draws, concession. January 12-13 Minor hockey Port Hardy Minor Hockey peewee tournament, Don Cruickshank Memorial Arena. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sunday with finals. Concession, raffle table, 50/50 draws, more. January 18-20 Curling Broughton Curling Club annual ladies open bonspiel, Port McNeill. Info, 250-956-2736 or club's Facebook page.

Left: North Island Eagles midget Robby Heavenor delivers an open-ice hit to Sooke's Luke Pitre during their game Saturday at Chilton Regional Arena in Port McNeill. Right, Pitre hits the deck as the Eagles' Tyson Cadwallader skates past. J.R. Rardon

Midgets pummel Sooke in pair of wins J.R. Rardon Gazette editor In last weekend’s hockey doubleheader on the North Island, the Sooke midgets managed just two goals each day. For Tri-Port Eagles forward Eric Kennelly, that was an average period. Kennelly amassed 13 points and goalie Stevyn Ruel was solid in net both days as the host Eagles topped Sooke 8-2 in a Saturday exhibition game in Port McNeill before blasting the Thunderbirds 9-2 in a Vancouver Island Hockey League Division 3 league matchup Sunday in Port Hardy. “We stayed out of the (penalty) box,” Eagles coach Mike Bell shrugged when asked about the turnaround from the teams’ last meeting, when the midgets settled for a 4-4 tie at Sooke. “We have more skill than all the teams we’re playing in our league, but not when we’re playing them four on five.” The contentious weekend series offered the Eagles plenty of chances to earn cheap penalty minutes.

and Ethan Shaw each had three assists. Bell, Kennelly, Coon and Ty Brittain added helpers.

North Island Eagles midget Zach Swanson drops Sooke skater Ryan Seeburger along the boards during Saturday's 8-2 win at Chilton Regional Arena. J.R. Rardon

Sooke coach kept Kelly Lott kept a virtual running dialogue going with the officiating crew Saturday in Port McNeill, and the officials were forced to eject a Thunderbirds fan from Sunday’s game in Port Hardy. But when the Sooke players tried to goad them into retaliation, the midgets declined to rise to the bait.

“They took a lot of shots and didn’t retaliate,” Bell said of his charges. “And that’s the key.” The wins wrapped up the 2012 portion of the schedule for the midgets, who have a 6-3-1 record against league opponents. To illustrate Bell’s point, in their last two losses, the Eagles averaged 41 penalty minutes per

game. In last weekend’s sweep, they averaged 16. Eagles 8, Thunderbirds 2 Kennelly and Chad Bell each scored two goals as Tri-Port raced to a 5-0 lead midway through the game and coasted to the win. Sooke came out of intermission skating hard, and potted two second-period goals to

cut the deficit to 5-2. But Kennelly pounced on a sloppy pass while chasing on a penalty kill and netted the shorthanded goal, and added the final score on a power-play slap shot from the point, his fourth goal of the game. Malcolm Browne and Darryl Coon Jr. added goals in the win, and Robby Heavenor

Eagles 9, Thunderbirds 2 Kennelly tallied a natural hat trick and then some Sunday in Port Hardy, scoring the final five goals of the game after Sooke pulled within 4-2 on Quinton MacDonell’s score at 14:08 of the second period. Shaw was the primary setup man in the eruption, tallying five assists to go with his first period goal. Bell, Shaw and Tyson Cadwallader each scored as the midgets grabbed a 3-0 first-period lead. After Sooke got on the board early in the second, Bell potted his second goal to restore the advantage at 4-1. Kennelly had assists on three of the first four goals before taking on the late scoring duties, and Heavenor added four more assists to give the defenseman seven on the weekend. Coon contributed two assists and Zach Swanson added a single in the victory.

14 www.northislandgazette.com

Sports & Recreation

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Norsemen dominant against visiting Whalers J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL— In a small, close-knit community like North Vancouver Island, there are very few well-kept secrets. But the North Island Secondary School boys basketball team sprung one of them on Port Hardy this month while posting a pair of exhibition wins over the Whalers. Juan Camacho, a Rotary Club exchange student from Ecuador, poured in 25 points and wreaked havoc with his defence last Wednesday as NISS coasted to a 54-10 win over PHSS, its second lopsided victory in as many weeks. Forward Aidan Horgan, a returning

player, added 18 points and six rebounds for the Norsemen. “It helped that we’ve got two point guards,” said Casey Mork, head coach at the Port McNeill school. “Brandon Pelletier triggers everything, and we’ve got an exchange student who makes all the difference.” Camacho has obviously played the game for some time, while the two North Island schools did not even have active basketball programs as recently as two years ago. Anticipating the action in the middle of the NISS defensive press, Camacho repeatedly darted in for steals and raced downcourt for easy layups or passes

Clifford Glendale of the NISS Norsemen leads the charge on a fast break against the PHSS Whalers during last week's game in J.R. Rardon Port McNeill. to teammates for open to register a big assist second-year player who shots. On a couple of tally when teammates Mork said has taken big strides as an insideoccasions he even dealt missed shots. That was rarely a outside threat for the no-look, behind-theback passes and failed problem for Horgan, a Norsemen.

Atoms take heart J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL— The matchup between the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the Vancouver Island Hockey League’s atom development Division 3 standings turned out to be a onesided affair. But while most coaches have trouble finding the positives following a 10-4 defeat, Eagles coach Marty Gage was encouraged by some signs from his squad’s loss to the unbeaten and league-leading Comox Valley Chiefs Saturday. “They’re a good team, no doubt about it,” Gage said of the Tier II Chiefs. “But it was a good learning experience. You don’t learn by winning all your games.” Going into Saturday’s contest at Chilton Region Arena, the little Tri-Port atom squad had been doing plenty of that. The Eagles were 4-0-1 in league games and on a roll after dispatching Cowichan Valley 8-3 the previous week in Port Alice. But Comox came in with a perfect 5-0 record and had outscored opponents 28-7, never allowing more than two goals in a game.

“One of the biggest improvements on the team from last year is Aidan,” said Mork. “I’m really impressed with how he’s playing.” While the visiting PHSS players exhibited flashes of individual skill, they were simply overwhelmed by the Norsemen’s swarming defence. It probably did not help that the Whalers traveled with just seven players. And one of their best ball-handlers, Denine Reid — the only girl on the court — hit her head hard on the floor while scrapping with Camacho for the ball and sat for a substantial stretch of the game. “Most of our guys are only playing their sec-

ond game,” said Aidan O’Toole, who is in his second season as a volunteer co-coach of the PHSS team. “They’re still learning the game.” On the positive side, the Whalers did dominate the boards, winning the rebound battle 35-19. But they gave back many of those possessions in turnovers, suffering 40 giveaways in the key stat in the game. Pelletier had six points, including a three-pointer, for NISS, while Clifford Glendale scored four points and Drake Baron had two. Liam Knutson scored four points to lead PHSS, and Quinten Wamiss, Steven Keamo and Jared Inglis each had two.

For the months of Nov. & Dec. Port Hardy Return-It Centre will now accept your bottles & cans & donate them to the Gazette Hamper Fund. Just tell the cashier to deposit your empties to the Hamper Fund account.

Port Hardy Kinsmen Return-It Centre

North Island Eagles atom Luke Gage is taken down by Comox Valley's Cameron Gregory on a charge to the net Saturday J.R. Rardon in Port McNeill.

That went by the boards when Mathew Saunders and Luke Gage scored second-period goals, both assisted by Rhys Dutcyvich, and Payton Laming added back-to-back goals in the third period to earn p l a y e r- o f - t h e - g a m e honours for the Eagles. “Sometimes after a loss you feel disappointed,” Marty Gage said. “I don’t feel that way.” The real trouble for the atoms came during a short stretch late in the first period, when Comox turned a narrow 2-0 lead into a 6-0 advantage by taking advantage of a series of defensive breakdowns by the hosts. Three of those scores came on breakaway goals by players who

slipped behind the North Island defenders. Two more came following turnovers in their own end that left goalie Kayden Jones to fend for himself against the swarming attackers. “When you play a team that strong, the little mistakes are going to hurt you,” Gage said. “But I was impressed that the kids showed a lot of resiliency and never gave up.” After the big Comox outburst, the teams were even down the stretch, playing 4-4 over the final 35 minutes. “I don’t think they’re unbeatable,” Gage said of the Chiefs. Ryan Patterson and Liem Wadhams each had two assists for the Eagles, on the goals by Laming.

9300 Trustee Rd, Port Hardy 250-949-7700 Open 4 days a week Thurs-Sun: 10am-5pm

NEW!

Now accepting electronics!

ATHLETE of the Week ERIC KENNELLY

Holiday Hours

The Port Alice winger scored nine goals and totaled 13 points as the North Island Eagles midgets swept two games from visiting Sooke. J.R. Rardon

The office will be closed Dec. 25 & 26, 2012 and Jan. 1, 2013. Early Deadlines:

For Dec. 27 issue:

Display: Tues. Dec. 18 @ 4pm Classified ads: Thurs. Dec. 20 @ 10am

For Jan. 3 issue:

K_`eb ]i\j_% <Xk ]i\j_%

Display: Mon. Dec. 24 @ 12 noon Classified ads: Thurs. Dec. 27 @ 10am

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

GAZETTE

250-949-8889

NORTH ISLAND

If you know someone who should be the Athlete of the Week, phone the Gazette at 250-949-6225.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com 15

Zeballos band awarded infrastructure grant ZEBALLOS— The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic

Diversification, announced federal funding for the Ehattesaht/Chinehkint under the federal government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. Federal funding of $166,750 will help renovate the Ehattesaht/ Chinehkint Band Office.

These improvements are important for the Ehattesaht/Chinehkint, as the facility is used by all residents for a variety of purposes including community meetings and gatherings, in addition to administration. Project activities will include upgrades to the foundation, struc-

ture, roof, windows and doors, plumbing, and heating. The renovations will also supply

the facility with the ability to gain internet access. “Ehattesaht/

Chinehkint wishes to thank Western Economic Diversification Canada for support-

ing our Transformation Project,” said Chief Councillor Rose-Ann Billy.

Shop Local winner Val Barnes of Port Hardy holds the more than $600 in gift certificates and gift cards she won from North Island businesses in the annual Shop Local contest last week. Barnes' winning entry was from North Star Cycle and Sports in Port Hardy. J.R. Rardon

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SHOP LOCALLY AND SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY 8950 Granville St., Port Hardy BC tel#: 250-949-9222 Store Hours: Mon, Tue, Sat: 9am – 6pm, Wed – Fri: 9am – 9pm, Sun: 11am – 6pm, Holidays: 10am – 5pm

43 – 1705 Campbell Way, Port McNeill BC tel#: 250-956-4465 Store Hours: Mon – Thu, Sat: 9am – 6pm, Fri: 9am – 9pm, Sun & Holidays: 11am – 5pm FortisBC uses the FortisBC Energy name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (12-336.4 12/2012)

16 www.northislandgazette.com

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WEâ€™RE ON THE WEB www.bcclassiďŹ ed.com

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Port Hardy meets on Mondays at 7:30pm & Fridays at 8pm. Located at Upper Island Public Health Unit on Gray St. (rear entrance), Port Hardy, B.C. For more information call 1877-379-6652.

HOUSE/PET-SITTING. Taking bookings now for 2013. Storeyâ€™s Beach area. Licence, references. 250-230-5002.

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

North Island Catholic Churches Mass Schedule Christmas 2012 Monday, December 24 Port Alice: 5:00pm Port Hardy: 8:00pm Port McNeill: 10:00pm PLACES OF WORSHIP

PLACES OF WORSHIP

PORT HARDY BAPTIST CHURCH PORT HARDY BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of Trustee & Highland Corner of Trustee Highland Morning Service&11:00 am Morning Service 11:00 am Plus Plus regular regular family family activities activities Office: Office: 250-949-6844 250-949-6844 www.porthardybaptistchurch.ca www.porthardybaptistchurch.ca Pastor: Kevin Pastor: Kevin Martineau Martineau

11/13 11/13

ST. ST. COLUMBA COLUMBA ANGLICAN ANGLICAN UNITED UNITED Reverend Reverend Wade Wade Allen Allen 9190 9190 Granville Granville St. St. Port Port Hardy Hardy Phone Phone 250-949-6247 250-949-6247 11:00 11:00 a.m. a.m. Sunday Sunday School School and and Service Service Wed., Wed., 1:00 1:00 pm pm Bible Bible Study Study Everyone Everyone welcome welcome Meeting Meeting rooms rooms available available columbac@uniserve.com columbac@uniserve.com

11/13 11/13

FULL FULL GOSPEL GOSPEL CHURCH CHURCH 2540 2540 Catala Catala Place Place Port Port McNeill McNeill (across from Firehall) (across from Firehall) Sunday Sunday 10:30 10:30 am am -- Morning Morning Worship Worship Church Office 250-956-4741 Pastor Stan Rukin Youth Pastor: Steve Taylor Cell: 250-527-0144 Office hours: 10am-4pm Mon-Thurs Visitors always welcome www.ptmcfullgospel.org

11/13

CHRIST CHURCH ANGLICAN Alert Bay Sunday Services - 10 am Reverend Lincoln Mckoen 1-250-974-5844 Warden Flora Cook 250-974-5945 Warden Joan Stone 250-974-2234 11/13

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 4680 Byng Rd. Port Hardy Pastor George Hilton 250-949-8925 or 250-949-8826 â€œEveryone welcomeâ€? Saturday Services 9:30am - Bible Study groups 10:45am Worship/Praise service service 10:45am -- Worship/Praise Wednesday @ @ 7pm 7pm -- Prayer Prayer meeting meeting Wednesday Avalon Adventist Adventist Jr. Jr. Academy Academy Avalon Offering Christian Christian Education Education Offering 250-949-8243 250-949-8243

11/13 11/13

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Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: ďŹ sh@blackpress.ca

PERSONALS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Port Hardy meets every Wednesday & Saturday at the Upper Island Public Health Unit on Gray Street at 8pm. Sundays at the Salvation Army Lighthouse, 8635 Granville St., at 7pm.

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE www.bcclassiďŹ ed.com

PLACES OF WORSHIP

LOST AND FOUND $5000 REWARD For information leading to the recovery of 120 Boom Sticks and Boom Chains missing from the WFP Foreshore Tie Up in Zeballos, BC. Call Bev at 250-287-9201 or email info@pallangroup.com LOST IN Port McNeill Sept. 11. Cell phone at doctorâ€™s ofďŹ ce. $40 Reward. 250-9499755 after 9pm.

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

North Island Church Services NORTH CATHOLIC NORTH ISLAND ISLAND CATHOLIC CHURCHES CHURCHES Sunday Sunday Masses Masses St. McNeill: 9am 9am St. Maryâ€™s Maryâ€™s Port Port McNeill: St. Bonaventure Port Hardy: 11am 11am St. Bonaventure Port Hardy: St. Port Alice: Alice: St. Theresaâ€™s Theresaâ€™s Port Saturdays 5:00pm Saturdays 5:00pm Alert Saturdays 10am 10am Alert Bay: Bay: 1st 1st & & 3rd 3rd Saturdays Father 250-956-3909 Father Roger Roger Poblete Poblete 250-956-3909

11/13 11/13

PORT PORT MCNEILL MCNEILL BAPTIST BAPTIST CHURCH CHURCH 2501 Road 2501 Mine Mine Road Sunday Sunday 9:45 Sunday School School 9:45 am am (Sept-June) (Sept-June) -- Sunday 11:00 Service 11:00 am am -- Worship Worship Service 7:00 Fellowship 7:00 pm pm -- Evening Evening Fellowship Youth 7:00 pm pm Youth Group Group Wed Wed -- 7:00 Childrenâ€™s & Adult Adult Bible Bible Childrenâ€™s Programs Programs & Studies throughout the the year. year. Studies are are scheduled scheduled throughout For contact For information information contact 0ASTOR $AVE 0URDY s 11/13 11/13

LIGHTHOUSE RESOURCE CENTRE s #HAPLAIN 3ERVICES s "IBLE 3TUDIES s 3PIRITUAL #OUNSELLING s 7EEKLY !! 'ROUPS (8635 Granville St. Port Hardy) 250-949-8125

PORT ALICE ALICE ANGLICANANGLICANPORT UNITED FELLOWSHIP FELLOWSHIP UNITED Reverend Wade Wade Allen Allen Reverend Sunday Services Services -- 4pm 4pm Sunday 1-250-949-6247 1-250-949-6247 Box 159, 159, Port Port Alice Alice Box You are are extended extended aa special special invitation invitation to to You share in in our our Services Services share

PORT HARDY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP at Providence Place, 7050 Rupert St Sunday Worship 10:30 am & 7 pm Tuesday Prayer 7:30 pm Midweek Biblestudies - Call the church for time and place 250-949-6466 Pastor George & Karen Ewald (home) 250-949-9674 E-Mail:pastorgeorge@providenceplace.ca E-Mail:pastorgeorge@providenceplace.ca

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AN ALBERTA Construction Company is hiring Dozer and Excavator Operators. Preference will be given to operators that are experienced in oilďŹ eld road and lease construction. Lodging and meals provided. The work is in the vicinity of Edson, Alberta. Alcohol & Drug testing required. Call Contour Construction at 780-723-5051.

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11/13 11/13

ST. JOHN JOHN GUALBERT GUALBERT UNITED UNITED ST. ANGLICAN CHURCH CHURCH ANGLICAN 250-956-3533 250-956-3533 Email: gualbert@uniserve.com gualbert@uniserve.com Email: Sunday Worship Worship -- 9:00am 9:00am Sunday Reverend Wade Wade Allen Allen Reverend All Welcome Welcome All 175 Cedar Cedar Street Street Port Port McNeill McNeill 175

11/13 11/13

GWAâ€™SALA-â€™NAKWAXDAâ€™XW GWAâ€™SALA-â€™NAKWAXDAâ€™XW SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST ADVENTIST SEVENTH-DAY CHURCH at entrance to Tsulquate Village (8898 Park Dr) Saturday/Sabbath 10:00 am-Sabbath School 11:15 am-Worship Service Pastor Randy Elliott 250-230-1885 cell 11/13 11/13

11/13

TIMESHARE

NOW HIRING

Western Forest Products Inc. is an integrated Canadian forest products company located on Vancouver Island that is committed to the safety of our employees, the culture of performance and the discipline to achieve results. We currently have the following openings:

Sales Rep Trainee Help Desk Support Technician Heavy Duty Mechanics Detailed job postings can be viewed at

http://www.westernforest.com/building-value/our-people-employment/careers WFP offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefit package. If you believe that you have the skills and qualifications that we are looking for, please reply in confidence to:

Human Resource Department Facsimile: 1.866.840.9611 Email: resumes@westernforest.com

11/13 11/13

CONNECTING JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS www.bcjobnetwork.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

HELP WANTED

www.northislandgazette.com 17 g

HELP WANTED

PROCESSOR and FELLER BUNCHER OPERATORS Roga Contracting Ltd., a logging and log hauling contractor located in British Columbia, is seeking PROCESSOR and FELLER BUNCHER OPERATORS for full time employment at their Campbell River Operation.

PERSONAL SERVICES

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED

LEGAL SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE

OTHER AREAS

THE LEMARE Group is accepting resumes for the following positions: â€˘Grade Hoe Operator-with Coastal Logging Roadbuilding experience â€˘Coastal CertiďŹ ed Hand Fallers â€˘Coastal CertiďŹ ed Bull Buckers â€˘Road Grader Operator â€˘Grader Operator â€˘ Heavy Duty Mechanics Fulltime camp with union rates/beneďŹ ts. Please send resumes by fax to 250-956-4888 or email to ofďŹ ce@lemare.ca.

CRIMINAL RECORD? Donâ€™t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certiďŹ cation, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.

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PERSONAL SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Mill & Timber Products Ltd. is a small privately owned forest company. Established in 1951, its cedar mill is located in Surrey, B.C. on the banks of the Fraser River. We specialize in Western Red Cedar Products. Our Port Hardy Woodlands operation is now accepting applications for a:

Forestry Supervisor - Planning/Operations Duties: s "ASED OUT OF 0ORT (ARDY OFlCE AND REPORTING TO THE 7OODLANDS -ANAGER THE CANDIDATE WILL BE PART OF THE TEAM ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE PLANNING IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING OF ALL OF THE COMPANY FORESTRY AND LOGGING ACTIVITIES ON THE #OAST s 3TEWARDSHIP PLANNING AND ACTIVITIES TO MEET SILVICULTURAL OBLIGATIONS s #ONTRIBUTE TO THE COMPANY ANNUAL TIMBER DEVELOPMENT s 3UPERVISE CONTRACT LOGGING ROAD CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING AND SILVICULTURE ACTIVITIES AT VARIOUS REMOTE CAMP LOCATIONS s #OMPLETE AND MANAGE BUDGETS QualiďŹ cations: s (AS EXPERIENCE IN FORESTRY PLANNING AND OPERATIONS AS WELL AS A WORKING KNOWLEDGE OF ALL COASTAL HARVESTING SYSTEMS AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION s )S REGISTERED OR ELIGIBLE FOR REGISTRATION AS A FORESTRY PROFESSIONAL IN "# s )S KNOWLEDGEABLE OF "# REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS s $EMONSTRATE mEXIBILITY AND A WILLINGNESS TO LEARN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND ABLE TO PRODUCE POSITIVE RESULTS IN A TEAM ENVIRONMENT s (AS EXCELLENT WRITTEN AND ORAL COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS s )S PHYSICALLY lT AND ABLE TO MEET THE DEMANDS OF WALKING IN STEEP FOREST TERRAIN ON A REGULAR BASIS s (AS GOOD WORKING KNOWLEDGE IN THE USE OF 0HOENIX 0ROFESSIONAL -ICROSOFT %XCEL %XPERIENCE IN USING 2OADENG 3UREVEY 7IZARD %NFOR %3& AND OTHER GOVERNMENT DIGITAL SUBMISSION SITES WOULD BE CONSIDERED AN ASSET !S PART OF A SMALL AND DEDICATED OPERATIONS TEAM THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL BE INVOLVED IN A BROAD RANGE OF FOREST PLANNING ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS ON SITE OPERATIONAL LEVEL ACTIVITIES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE SUCCESS OF THE BUSINESS (E SHE WILL BE EXPECTED TO LIVE ON .ORTHERN 6ANCOUVER )SLAND AND WILL BE EXPECTED TO SPEND SIGNIlCANT AMOUNT OF TIME IN CAMP !PPLICATIONS WILL BE RECEIVED VIA E MAIL RYSZARDMYCEK APGROUP CA 4HIS POSITION WILL COMMENCE IMMEDIATELY /NLY THOSE APPLICANTS SELECTED FOR AN INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED

CONNECTING JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS www.bcjobnetwork.com

APARTMENT/CONDO PETS WELCOME - Quiet 2 bdrm apt near Airport. Private Parking. Small backyard. Ref. Req. Call 250-949-7189. PORT HARDY Airport Rd 2 bdrms, clean, quiet. NS. Refs. $525.Avail now.250-949-6319.

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Roga Contracting Ltd. offers competitive wages with full medical and dental beneďŹ t packages. If you are interested in a future with us, please send your resume to rogacrresumes@hotmail.com, or fax to 250-286-3653.

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/newspaper?

PORT MCNEILL APARTMENTS

DROWNING IN debts? Helping Canadians 25 years. Lower payments by 30%, or cut debts 70% thru Settlements. Avoid bankruptcy! Free consultation. www.mydebtsolution.com or Toll Free 1 877-556-3500 IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: Itâ€™s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161. M O N E Y P R OV I D E R . C O M . $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

FUEL/FIREWOOD

FOR SALE BY OWNER

SEASONED FIREWOOD Vancouver Islandâ€™s largest ďŹ rewood producer offers ďŹ rewood legally obtained during forest restoration, large cords. Help restore your forest, Burndrywood.com 1-877-902-WOOD.

PORT MCNEILLPerfect Starter! 3 bdrms, 1 bath, big shop/garage, nice yard, good street for kids. 2550 Cassiar Place. $129,900. Call (250)230-0276.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE ATTENTION FORD RANGER AND MAZDA OWNERS For sale in Port Hardy Class 3 receiver Hitch 8 months old Paid $220 new Asking $150 250-949-8928 STEEL BUILDINGS /metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 or online: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

www.bcclassiďŹ ed.com HELP WANTED

Well managed 1 & 2Bdrm suites. Gym & sauna on site. Call for availability.

PIXEL POINT of systems. Includes touch screen, cash drawer and 2 printers. $2000. Call 250-902-9054.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

No phone calls please. We thank all those who express interest but will only contact those to be interviewed.

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Forest Stewardship Plan Western Forest Products Inc., North Vancouver Island Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP), for the Port McNeill, Jeune Landing, Holberg, and Englewood Operations, was approved by the Ministry of Forests and Range in 2007 for a ďŹ ve year term. This includes the following forest licences: Tree Farm Licence (TFL) 6, TFL 37 & 39 Block 4, Forest Licence A19244 and various timber licences. Public referral has included trappers, hunters, rafters, guide outďŹ tters, cavers, lodge and cabin owners, water licensees, public advisory groups, First Nations, and communities among others. Western encourages the public to provide new information, on an ongoing basis, about their interests in the area that may be affected by forestry, road building and harvesting. You may identify interests, uses, and attributes in areas that are important to you, identify how forest development could affect those concerns, or provide any other information you feel that Western needs to be aware of for planning purposes. The comments about speciďŹ c areas can be considered when we prepare site level information, design cutblocks and roads, and prescribe reforestation treatments. The earlier you are able to share with us your comments in our planning process, the better we can seek to consider your interests at the onset. These site level plans are available for viewing from Western upon request. The FSP is available at Western ofďŹ ces for public review during regular business hours and arrangements to do so can be made by contacting 250-956-5200. To view the plan online, go to http://www.westernforest.com/ sustainability/environmenta-stewardship/planning-and-practices/our-forests/ north-vancouver-island-forest-stewardship-plan/ If you wish to provide information about speciďŹ c resource features or learn more about our local forest operations, please contact: Western Forest Products Inc. Port McNeill and Jeune Landing Forest Operation Port McNeill, BC V0N 2R0 250-956-5200

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18 www.northislandgazette.com g

Thursday, December 20, 2012

RENTALS

An active part of your business Merry Christmas & a HappyLet Newme Year. and our communities. Thank youbusiness for all your business and help your get business. support in 2012. Together we can help the North I look forward to serving you in 2013. Island stay strong and grow!!

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

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20 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Boxing Day Sale! One Day Only-Dec. 27 Save the Taxes!

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Christmas Supplement 2012

First Place Winner: Ages 0-5 Sarah Tupper

First Place Winner: Ages 6-8 Tori Walkus

First Place Winner: Ages 9-12 Jordan Barcly

First Place Winner: Ages 13+ Anthony Schofield

Christmas stories and colouring from our talented youth on the North Island.

GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND

B2 www.northislandgazette.com

Christmas 2012

A big thank you to the hundreds of entrants who took the time to enter the Gazette’s annual colouring and writing contests. The walls of our office are currently a kaleidoscope of colour as we have all 264 of the colouring entries on display. Well done to all the North Island schoolchildren who entered, you’ve certainly brightened our days, and gave our judges some difficult decisions this week. Well done too to all the creative writers who took our lead and crafted it into a Christmas tale. If the entries are anything to go by, the North Island has a wealth of imaginative, talented writers honing their craft at our schools. And a special congratulations to the winners. While we loved each and every entry, our judges had the unenviable task of picking their favourites. We loved hearing the sound of the Hardy Bay Seniors’ laughter as they read each entry aloud. The winners are listed below, and these winners can come by the Gazette office to claim their cash prize. With the pictures on our wall, snow falling and the Hamper delivery coming this weekend, Christmas has definitely arrived to our office. From all of us the Gazette, we wish you and yours the very best this holiday season and New Year and hope 2013 is your best year yet. Merry Christmas, Sandy Grenier, publisher

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Wishing you and your family peace and joy this holiday season!

Claire Trevena, MLA (North Island)

Room 7, Robert Scott School PO Box 2479 Port Hardy, V0N 2P0 Phone: 240-949-9473 or 866-387-5100 Email: claire.trevena.mla@leg.bc.ca www.clairetrevena..ca

And the winners are... Story contest

Colouring Contest

Grade k to 3 1st Kirsten Strussi 2nd Cole Swanson Grade 4 to 7 1st Wesley Hopkins 2nd Lily Furney Honourable Mention Pierson Earle Elise Quest

Ages 0 to 5 1st Sara Tupper 2nd Rylan Krawietz 3rd Aryanna Johnny Ages 6 to 8 1st Tori Walkus 2nd Olivia Kearney 3rd Chloe Blair Ages 9 to 12 1st Jordan Barcly 2nd Nate Poirier 3rd Abigale Christianson Ages 13+ 1st Anthony Schofield 2nd Moses Walkus

HAPPY HOLIDAYS From my Family to Yours I’d like to say in all sincerity, That I wish you much joy and prosperity; And when the holiday is through, May our best wishes remain with you! I’m proud to serve these fine communities and thank you for your trust.

From

Karin www.hardyrealty.ca 250-949-7231

Free Family Swim There’s no place like home for the holidays, especially when there are people like you for neighbours! Merry Christmas and many thanks.

District of Port Hardy

11am-12pm Thurs, Dec. 27 (Sponsored by CCCU) Fri, Dec. 28 (Sponsored by Macandale's) Wed, Jan. 2 (Sponsored by Fox Disposal) Thurs, Jan. 3 (Sponsored by K&K Electric) Fri, Jan. 4 (Sponsored by Scarlet Point Seafoods) 2:45pm-3:45pm Sat, Dec. 29 (Sponsored by EPCOR)

Free Public Swim 1:15pm-3:15pm Thurs, Dec. 27 (Sponsored by Fox Disposal) Fri, Dec. 28 (Sponsored by Paul Grier) Wed, Jan. 2 (Sponsored by POrt Hardy Bulldozing & Port Hardy Rec) Thurs, Jan. 3 (Sponsored by Pacificus) Fri, Jan. 4 (Sponsored by Keltic Seafoods)

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

A Christmas Story

ww.northislandgazette.com B3

Grades K-3

By: Kirsten Strussi Eagle View Elementary, Grade 2 Steven could barely sleep on Christmas Eve he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light and his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed. “Santa needs your help,” he said. Steven said ok, to the elf. So he did. When they got to the place where the Christmas tree was. Stevens mouth fell open. It was Santa. Before he new it he was in Santa’s sled. Santa said to Steven, “how about you dress up like Rudolf?” Steven agreed. Do know why he was in Santa’s sled? Steven had to help deliver presents, because Rudolf was sick, he ate to many oats. All the of the kids got presents on Christmas Eve. Everything went well. Merry Christmas Everyone.

From all of us at

Strait Shooter Photography Thank for another great year! Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a picture-perfect New Year

Strait Shooter Photography 250-949-0528 www.straitshooter.ca

As another holiday season gets into full swing, we’d like to display our best wishes, and deliver our gratitude to all of those who have visited us this year. For your friendship, we feel truly blessed and look forward to serving you again, soon.

250-949-6630 scarlet@cablerocket.com

We’re proud to serve you! ANOTHER GREAT SEASON IS IN THE BAG! Merry Christmas and a bundle of thanks to all the kind folks we’ve had the privilege to serve this year. From the management & staff

We’re displaying our holiday best to let you know just how much we appreciate your business and how proud we are to be at your service. Have a great holiday and please stop by and visit us soon.

B4 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

Grades 4-7

Santa needs help By: Wesley Hopkins Woss Elementary Elementar a y School,, Grade 4 Steven could barely sleep on Christmas Eve, he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light and his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed. “Santa needs your help,” he said. “Oh no!, what is wrong?” Steven asked. “Why does Santa need help?” “One of our elves is sick so Santa wants you to take his place,” explained Tim the elf. “Wow, I’d love to help Santa!” said Steven. “Okay, I’ll lead you to the sleigh.” Tim said. They jumped into the sleigh and headed to the North Pole. When they got there Santa was waiting for them. He called all the other elves and they began to load the sleigh. Steven couldn’t believe that he was chosen to help with this important job. When the sleigh was loaded up, Steven got to help hitch up the reindeer and away they flew. Their first stop was Russia. They saw lots of reindeer there. Then they flew to Africa where they saw herds of zebras, giraffes and lots of other animals. After that they went to Australia and Steven got to see real live kangaroos. From there they went to Mexico. Steven saw colourful pinatas everywhere. They crossed the United States and at last they were in Canada. Steven saw the skyscrapers and all the shining lights of Vancouver and then finally far below him he saw the rooftops of Woss! Santa brought the sleigh down on the roof of Steven’s house. He put presents under the tree and filled the stockings. Then he thanked Steven for all his help, tucked him into bed and said Merry Christmas and flew back to the North Pole. Steven was excited about all the presents that Santa had left under his tree but traveling around the world with Santa and seeing all the things that he did was the best present of all.

Thank you

to our sponsors and supporters. . The North Island Concert Society wishes everyone a

Merry Christmas and all the Best in 2013 See you at our next concert:

HEADWATER on January 19, 2013

North Island Concert Society Season’s Greetings

Happy Holidays Joyous Noel

From the staff at the Quarterdeck Pub, we wish you all a

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

Happy Holidays

Feliz Navidad Merry Christmas

Blessings At Yuletide

No matter how you say it, we hope it’s grand! Thank you for your generous support all year long. from all of us at Port Hardy Bulldozing

SEASON’S GREETINGS

to you and your family

from all of us at

With best wishes to our neighbours, friends and clients at this joyous time of year. For your trust in us, we are deeply grateful.

W. Paul Grier Barrister and Solicitor, Notary Public 6990 Market St. Port Hardy Ph: 250-949-6777 wpgrier@telus.net

Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com B5

Christmas 2012

Ages 9-12 By: Nate Poirier Eagle View Elementary, Age 9

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year We look forward to serving you in 2013. From the new management & staff

Glen Lyon Restaurant & Lounge

Sending everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Marine Electronics & Supplies Stryker Electronics Ltd. Stryke 6710 Hardy Bay Road Port Hardy, B.C. ph: 250-949-8022

Call 250-949-7135

s g n i t e e r G s n o s a e S ! ll a d n a to one We look forward to serving you in 2013.

Bright Wishes at Christmas

From the Staff at Creative Edge Salon & Spa

May you ďŹ nd yourself surrounded by all the gifts of this splendid season. We feel fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful friends like you.

Merry Christmas from Carla, Lynn, Katelynd & Sonya at The Hobby Nook & North Island Lanes

4HE (OBBY .OOK 7035 Market St. 250-949-5905

B6 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year! Santa’s Little Helper By: Elise Quest Eagle View Elementary

Honorable Mention Grades 4-7

Steven could barely sleep on Christmas Eve, he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light, his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed.” Santa needs your help” he said…“Help with what Steven asked? “Santa’s assistant is sick; Santa sent me to bring you up the North Pole so you can help him deliver all the Christmas gifts tonight!” Steven thought long and hard. Was he willing to help save Christmas? Steven decided he would help Santa. “Come on we have to hurry! Steven and the elf got on a reindeers’ back and soared through the bitter cold sky, heading for the North Pole. After ﬂying for what seemed like hours, they ﬁnally landed. The elf gave a cup of hot chocolate to Steven before they got in the sleigh and headed off to deliver presents. Steven couldn’t believe what was happening.

Holiday Hours Closed Dec. 23 to Dec. 26 Re-open Dec. 27 Closed Jan. 1

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

From the staff of

Before Steven knew it, he and Santa were whisked away in the sleight to go spread Christmas Joy. Santa acknowledged Steven for helping him at such short notice. “You are a generous boy Steven, for helping me with this quest you will be granted a splendid Christmas gift.” House by house they went, delivering Christmas gifts to each child. It took them eight hours to deliver all the gifts. Santa dropped Steven off at his house. Silently, Steven crept back into bed and fell asleep. The next morning Steven work up with a wonderful heartwarming feeling. He raced downstairs and discovered a humongous present awaited him. His parents were astonished when he opened it, inside was a puppy curled up fast asleep. Steve knew exactly who it was from.

250-949-8303

It’s A Wonderful Life… with friends like you! To all our neighbours and friends, we wish the merriest and brightest holiday season ever! Thanks for lighting up our year with all your visits. Happy Holidays! — From Mayor, Council and Staff Town of Port McNeill

As we put yet another year out to pasture, we'd like to wish all of you a very joyous and satisfying holiday season. Working with great people like you has been udderly fantastic for us. Thanks!

Island Foods 250-956-3328

Joy to the world —And many thanks to all of you this holiday season. It’s been a privilege and a joy serving you.

DAVE LANDON MOTORS DL # 5507

250-949-6393 www.davelandonford.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

www.northislandgazette.com B7

Ages 13+ By: Moses Walkus PHSS, Age 15

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

250-949-6109

Season’s Greetings to All!

from the Management & Staff of Paciﬁcus Biological Services Ltd.

At the Holiday Season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our progress possible. It is in this spirit we say… Thank You & Best Wishes for the Holidays & a Happy New Year

B8 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

Grades K-3

Christmas Story By: Cole Swanson Woss Lake Elementary, Grade 2 Steven could barley sleep on Christmas Eve he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light and his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed. â€œSanta needs your help,â€? he said. â€œSanta doesnâ€™t have enough time to deliver all the presents because he is running very late. Rudolph had a tummy ache this morning. So if you would get dressed and put on your winter clothes we can go and get into the sleight and start delivering presents.â€? Steven was scared and excited at the same time. He got ready in a hurry and they ran out to the sleigh. In the sleigh Santa and some other elves were waiting for them. They hopped into the sleigh and took off. â€œThe ďŹ rst house we deliver presents to is for a boy named Jack. He wants a green and blue boat. The next house we are going to is Anneâ€™s. She would like a Barbie doll with pink clothes. Next we will go to , he wants a remote control car. We have so many more deliveries to do I hope we get done in time.â€? said Santa. They all worked as fast as they could to get the job done. At last Santa said, â€œHurry we are ďŹ nally done all the presents. Now we can go back to the North Pole and see Mrs. Claus.â€? Well, â€œHelloâ€? said Mrs. Claus, â€œHow about some hot chocolate and cookies?â€? â€œThat sounds great!â€? everybody shouted. So they are their cookies and drank the hot chocolate. Then it was ďŹ nally time to go home. Santa and Steven got into Santaâ€™s sleigh. Rudolph was in the lead, he was feeling better now. Santa said, â€œUp up up we go!â€? Steven was so excited to be in the magical sleigh. Santa said, â€œThank you for From Our Family to Yours... helping with the delivery of the presents. Any time that you would like to help again you are Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy more then welcome.â€? Steven awoke in his bed and Holiday Season was wondering if it had all been a dream.

14 Convenient Island Locations and 24/7 Claims Service to Serve You Better

Merry Christmas & All the Best in the New Year

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Monty & Staff

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Please visit your local merchants this holiday season

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

www.northislandgazette.com B9

Christmas 2012

Grades 4-7

Gone to help Santa By: Lily Furney Sunset Elementary, y, Grade 5 Steven could barely sleep on Christmas Eve he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light and his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed. “Santa needs your help,” he said. Steven couldn’t talk. “Well?” The elf asked “Uh, okay,” said Steven. “But I’ll have to write a note to my parents first.” “Okay. Just hurry up. There’s no time to lose.” replied the elf. Steven grabbed a pen from his bedside table and wrote, Dear Mom and Dad, I have gone to help Santa. I will be back on Christmas Day. Love Steven. “Okay let’s get a move on,” said the elf rudely. The elf led Steven through the house to the front door in pitch black. The elf had to jump several times to reach the door handle. Steven’s jaw fell open as he looked out at his yard. There was a sleigh with all Santa’s reindeer. And best of all, Santa was sitting in the sleigh waiting for the elf and Steven. “Hop in! Quickly!” Santa yelled. Steven and the elf jumped in the sleigh. “Go Dasher, go Dancer, Prancer and Vixen! Go Comet, go Cupid, Donner and Blitzen!" Santa yelled as the sleigh lurched forward. Steven could see the whole world. “This is cool,” he said amazed. Santa zoomed around. He stopped at the first house. “Steven, I want you to go down the chimney and put these presents in the stockings and under the tree.” Santa said as he handed Steven a small bag of presents. “What if I get burned by the fire?” asked Steven. “I have put it out already,” replied Santa. How could he have done that wondered Steven as Santa lifted him out of the sleigh onto the roof of the house. Steven climbed down the chimney. When Steven got down, he looked around and saw a beautiful Christmas tree. He reached in the bag and pulled out a box wrapped in pretty paper and placed it under the tree. He pulled out a few more presents and put them under the tree too. Then he went to the stockings and put candy, dolls, toy cars and jewellery in the stockings. When he was done he climbed out the chimney and back into the sleigh. “Try to go a bit faster next time,” said Santa. Steven nodded his head and got comfy on the seat. HERE’S HOPING YOUR YEAR IS SIMPLY GOLDEN! This routine went on for the rest of the night, Steven going down the chimney and back out again. It was 6:00 am when Santa dropped Steven off back at his For all your visits this year, we are sincerely grateful and house. we welcome the opportunity to serve you again in the “Thank you very much Steven. You have been a great help to me. If you hadn’t helped me then there would year ahead. have been no Christmas and a lot of sad children.” Santa said thoughtfully. Santa whipped his reins and set off into the sky yelling, “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night! Ho ho ho! Steven went into his house as his parents came down the stairs. “You’re already up!” they said when they saw Steven sitting on the couch. “Yah, I felt like getting up early to see what Santa brought me,” Steven replied as he took down his stocking from the fireplace. It was so heavy. After that Steven had a very nice Christmas with his family. He will never forget what happened that night on Christmas.

WISHING YOU A VERY GOOD YEAR!

Hardy Builders’ Supply

HBS 250-949-6611

Thank You For SEEING US This Year! Wishing all our patients a safe and happy holiday season. We value your trust and are proud to serve you. Looking forward to seeing you and your family again soon.

HO HO HO MERRY XMAS EVEN SANTA TAKES TIME OFF TO PLAY! DO YOU?

CHECK OUT THE SHED FOR YOUR LAST MINUTE GIFTS GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE WIDE SELECTION OF SNOW GEAR RAIN GEAR, BOOTS, JACKETS...GO PRO

NORTH ISLAND VISION CENTRE Dr. Stanley Eng. O.D., F.A.A.O. #7-Port Hardy Shopping Centre

250-949-6282

MORE THAN JUST BIKES! #3C-311 Hemlock Street, Port McNeill (behind Subway)

250-956-2686 Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm

B10 www.northislandgazette.com

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

The Best Christmas Grade 4-7 By: Pierson Earle Woss Lake Elementary, Grade 4

Honorable Mention

Steven could barely sleep on Christmas Eve he was so excited. He had just closed his eyes when he felt a weight on his bed as though someone had just sat down. He sat up and turned on the light and his jaw fell open as he saw an elf standing on his bed. “Santa needs your help,” he said as he walked closer to the boy. “He can’t deliver the presents in time because one of the elves got sick, he got the ﬂu! We can’t deliver the presents without our best wrapping and present delivering elf! We need you to do his jobs or some kids will have presents and some won’t,” said the elf in a worried voice. “I will help you” said the boy, “I love helping out and meeting new friends. Steven got dressed and got in the sleigh. “Brrrrr it is cold out here.” “Yes it is,” said a low voice. He looked up, he saw Santa! He had glowing, caring eyes and a red suit on. “Thank you for helping us, we need to get all the children’s presents to them!” “You are right, we need to get them all their presents before the morning.” “Ok, let’s go before it’s daylight,” said Steven. They got all the presents to the kids. “Time to go home,” said Santa. Steven said goodbye and got on his pajamas and went to bed. The next morning he got up and went to the tree. He saw lots and lots of presents. His mom and dad got up and they had breakfast together and went to the tree. They opened all their presents and said “Have a very good Christmast.” And they all had the best Christmas of their lives! Santa and his elves did too.

By: Abigale Christianson Sunset Elementary, Age 9

From all of us at Fox Disposal, All-Store Mini Storage & Beaver Harbour Storage

Port Hardy For Household Curbside Service on Tues. Dec. 25 & Jan. 1, pickup will be Mon. Dec. 24 & Dec. 31

We’d like to wish you all a

Port McNeill Household Curbside Service will NOT be affected

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Transfer Station at Tacan Site will be closed Dec. 23, 24, 25 & 26, 31 & Jan. 1. Transfer Station regular hours Tues., Fri., Sat. & Sun. 1pm-4pm excluding above dates.

Coal Harbour & Woss For Household Curbside Service on Tues. Dec. 25 & Jan. 1, pickup will be Mon. Dec. 24 & Dec. 31 Please check the RDMW website for more information: www.rdmw.bc.ca Sointula For Household Curbside Service on Tues. Dec. 25 pickup will be Mon. Dec. 24 Please check the RDMW website for more information: www.rdmw.bc.ca

By: Aryanna Johnny Age 4

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Christmas 2012

www.northislandgazette.com B11

3EASONS 'REETINGS from the staff at Rexall Come see us for all your last minute Christmas shopping!

Ages 0-5 TM/MC

By: Rylan Krawietz Eagle View Elementary, Age 5

8925 Granville St, Port Hardy Tel: 250-949-6552 | Fax: 250-949-6598

www.rexall.ca

The Holiday Season can be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some, the holidays are a struggle and are also very stressful. Dealing with loneliness, loss of a loved one, depression, unemployment and poverty can make this time of the year especially difďŹ cult. A caring person is just a phone call away, if you need to talk to someone over the holidays or anytime. If you are feeling suicidal or are concerned about someone else, there are two Crisis Lines that provide services to our area. Need more help? The volunteer will assist in ďŹ nding a resource for you.

North Island Crisis Line (Mt. Waddington Region) 250-949-6033 Port Hardy area 250-974-5326 Alert Bay/Kingcome Area Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1-888-494-3888

Wishes for a safe and happy Holiday Season from us to you.

Happy Holidays from the Gazette team Lisa, J.R., Aidan, Marlene, Julie & Sandy Thank you for being a part of your community newspaper!

Wishing you all the best in 2013.

Ages 6-8 By: Olivia Kearney Avalon, Age 7

In the spirit of the season we have made a donation in lieu of cards to our clients. Thank you for your business and have a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Dave, Judy & Kathy

250-956-4333

B12 www.northislandgazette.com

Christmas 2012

Thursday, December 20, 2012

From our families to yoursâ€Ś

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. from West Coast Helicopters