INSIDEopinion . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

mailbag . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

community . . . . . . . . . 8

classifi eds . . . . . . . . . 13

SENIORS CHRISTMASACE students giving up their Christmas morn-ing once again

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HISTORY ON THE MOVEHope man rebuilds 1928 steam engine

8

Town hall meeting planned

Jessica PetersTHE OBSERVER

Harrison residents are being asked to envision the future of their community.

But rather than written submissions or a community poll, the Village has decided to hold an information gathering round table meeting. � e meeting is being held on January 17 at Harrison Memorial Hall, and Mayor Leo Facio said he hopes the community turns out in full force, with plenty of fresh ideas and feedback.

� ey are asking three basic questions: what residents like about the Village, what they don't like about it, and what they would like to see for the future.

"We're not perfect," Facio said of elected council. "Maybe there is someone out there who has some fabulous idea on Harrison, and how to make is sustainable."

� e meeting will not be conducted by council, or even Village sta� . � ey have hired Tennant-Derksen Creative Strategies to facilitate the meeting. However, council members will be at the meeting, to hear the comments � rsthand.

� e meeting is scheduled to run for two hours, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. It will be the facilitator's job, once the meeting is over, to compile the information gathered and present it to council at a future meeting.

"It's like a townhall meeting," Facio said. "It's something I had on my to-do list when I was being elected, and then Councillor (John) Buckley came up with this and we decided to go ahead with it."

Some people don't always want to come to council, he said, or visit the Village o� ce to discuss their concerns. � is is an opportunity for those people to be included in a di� erent format.

"� is is an overall community gathering," he said. � ey are expecting a high turnout, and advise that people arrive early to ensure a seat at the table.

news@ahobserver.com

Harrison residents invited to round table

Friday, December 14, 2012 $1

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The Agassiz ❖ Harrison

Choirs from all around Agassiz, Harrison and Rosedale came together last Thursday night for the Community Christmas Concert at the Agassiz Agricultural Hall. Here, the Mass Choir sings Is There Room at the Manger. The annual event is a fundraiser for Agassiz Community Services, and this year, the event raised $2,400 through donations. For more photos, see page 12.

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forestry in BC?New forestry designation available now

� e Natural Resource Professional (or NRP) designation is new and recent grads from natural resources conservation programs at the University of BC, � ompson Rivers University and the University of Northern BC can apply today. � e NRP designation will allow you to practise aspects of professional forestry in every corner of the province. You might � nd yourself working for government, consultants, industry, Aboriginal groups and more! For more information and to see which programs qualify, visit our website at www.abcfp.ca.

NOTICEPUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant

to the Community Charter, the dates of the 2013 Regular Council meetings are as follows:

January 14 January 28 February 12 (Tuesday) February 25 March 11 March 25 April 8 April 22 May 13 May 27 June 10 June 24 July 15 August 19 September 9 October 15 (Tuesday) October 28 November 12 (Tuesday) November 25 December 9

Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m. in the Centennial Centre, Municipal Hall, Agassiz. For further information please contact the undersigned at 604-796-2235.Clair LeeDirector of Corporate Services

Council wary of more provincial involvementJessica PetersThe Observer

A presentation from two representatives from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations didn’t receive a very warm reception in council Monday night.

Jeff Juthans, a land and resource specialist and Brent Gurd, a wildlife biologist, spoke to council about an initiative to designate the Harrison Chehalis area into a wildlife mManagement area.

“Harrison Chehalis area is an ecological hotspot with internationally recognized fish and wildlife conservation values,” Juthans noted. A current plan is in place, and has been since the late 1990s, he said. But in 1997, a designation and draft management plan was started, and that led to further consultation with key proponents —  such as the District of Kent and local First Nation bands.

The whole plan was postponed in 2008, to allow for continued consultation, but now the ministry in charge is hoping to start a 45-day consultation process that would begin in mid-2013. While the presentation stated that current uses wouldn’t be affected by the implementation of a wildlife management area, during a question and answer period, Juthans said that activities that contravened the WMA wouldn’t necessarily be tolerated. The purpose of

WMA is to provide a special level of management to conserve important fish and wildlife habitats in the context of other important land uses, he said. It also gives the ministry responsible the administrative authority to manage the area and allows for some regulatory tools under the Wildlife Act to be considered in the management of that area. They did say that a WMA designation does not affect First Nation traditional use or cultural use, private property rights or adjacent land use.

Council was quick to point out that the area is doing very well as it is, and that they feared further designations by yet another arm of the government would cause more red tape for property owners, notably farmers.

“Am I picking up that there are environmental regulation concerns?” Juthans asked Mayor John Van Laerhoven.

“Yes,” the mayor responded. “There is definitely a level of concern here. I heard you say the WMA would have no impact on activities that are currently in place?”

“Yes,” Juthans replied. “But I also said if it was in contradiction to the WMA (then there could be an impact).”

“That kind of thing makes farmers and residents very nervous,” the mayor responded.

Many farmers already feel maligned by the amount of government approval needed for maintaining waterways in the District of Kent. Many of the regulations that exist are meant to protect endangered wildlife habitat.

Councillor Lorne Fisher explained the difficulties also relate to the government’s management of the river, and how the lack of gravel removal in recent years is contributing to farming and environmental issues.

“Sooner or later it’s going to have to get dredged or else

it’s not going to be a river,” he said. And the Fraser and Harrison Rivers run right through the proposed WMA.

“It is a complicated system that you are looking at in terms of managing to keep people happy, not only people but other species, too,” he said.

The area is a habitat for the white sturgeon, a red listed species, and is known internationally for its significant numbers of bald eagles. Activities that would disrupt nature, such

as chasing wildlife or ATV use, would not tolerated in a WMA. Some amenities and facilities could be built in the area, such as information boards, Juthans said.

While Juthans and Gurd work with the ministry of forests, lands and natural resources, the mayor expressed his frustration in dealing with other environmentally-focused ministries.

“A lot of money gets spent trying to work on these regulations than actually gets spent on the maintenance of

working on these ditches,” he said. But he did offer an olive branch.

“Maybe if we can help you in one area, you can help us in another,” he said to the delegation. “Because farming is also an endangered species…Are you getting a bit of the flavour of why we’re nervous?”

Juthans wrote down many of the comments during the conversation, and said he would take them back for consideration, and council made a motion to accept the report as information.

News

Jeff Juthans (pointing at map) and Brent Gurd addressed the District of Kent council on Monday about the proposed wildlife management plan for the Harrison Chehalis area. Council aired several concerns about the proposal.

JessICA PeTers / Observer

Proposed wildlife management area for harrison Chehalis dates back to 1997

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012 3

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2nd Annual Food DriveGiving Back to Our Community!

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Bring a food donation to our o� ce & help make someone’s Christmas a little brighter. Dr. Darren will match each food donation & all proceeds

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Harrison Hot springs Visitors’ guide

To book your ad contact Chris at The Observer:604-796-4301 | ads@ahobserver.com

It’s time to showcase our beautiful region to visitors & we have just the way to do so... by focusing on our

local events, natural wonders, shopping, dining & accommodations in another award-winning,

40-page, full colour, glossy guide.

A 50% deposit is required at time of booking with remainder to be paid no later than January 25th, 2013.

Chamber members will receive a 10% discount.

Included in the 50,000 copy distribution:

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Online edition at the Agassiz Harrison Hope Observer & Tourism Harrison websites

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Businesses will benefit from inter-municipal licence program, says minister of state

Kent watching mobile licence program for success

Jessica PetersThe OBserver

A pilot program that allows businesses to apply for an inter-municipal business license won't include the District of Kent or Harrison Hot Springs— for now.

Nine Fraser Valley municipalities have already hopped on board with the program, which goes into effect for 2013. They are Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Hope, both the city and township of Langley, Maple Ridge, Mission, Pitt Meadows and Surrey.

But Kent senior staff will be watching the program very closely, said Darcey Kohuch, Kent's director of development services.

"At the end of the pilot project, we'd have the opportunity to join if we wanted," he said.

Also called mobile business licenses, the program was first piloted in 2007 in 17 communities in the Okanagan-Similkameen. There is also a MBL program involving many Vancouver Island municipalities.

The concept is appealing to contracting-style businesses which do work in multiple communities, he said. To legally work in a municipality, a business must be licensed there. Traditionally, that means purchasing an annual license in each community that business expects to work in. Many Agassiz-

based businesses have jobs in neighbouring communities such as Hope, Mission and Chilliwack.

The cost of a Fraser Valley MLB will be $250 in 2013, and will give the contractor a license for all nine participating communities.

"The reason we're not in the pilot project is because we were not aware of it," Kohuch said. "We didn't get a phone call or anything in writing inviting us."

Since learning of the pilot project, Kohuch has contacted several of the participating municipalities for further information and will be preparing a report for council to discuss in the new year.

If the program is successful, and council approves of joining, the District would then contact the ministry in charge of the program. The program has been promoted by Chambers of Commerce in other communities, and by the B.C. Chamber of Commerce, and is coordinated by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour.

Kohuch thinks that businesses will like the MLB, because it could work out cheaper than buying individual licenses.

The District of Kent is currently re-writing its business bylaw, but he said it wouldn't be much to amend the bylaw in the future if Kent joins the program in the future.

"We'll have the opportunity to

participate in 2014, assuming it proceeds ahead," he said.

The fees paid out by businesses to the municipalities is divided through a revenue sharing formula that ensures the communities don't lose the revenue from their previous fee collection.

For example, Chilliwack receives 6.21 per cent of the revenue, Hope receives .87 per cent and Surrey receives 32.98 per cent.

The amount collected through the mobile business licensing will depend on how many businesses purchase them this year.

Harrison Hot Springs CAO Ted Tisdale said their office has also just received the information, and staff will be presenting the idea to council in the new year.

Naomi Yamamoto, minister of state for small business recently stated that the purpose of the MBL program is to streamline the paperwork for businesses.

"Reducing red tape at all levels of government is key to making it easier for business to do business in B.C." she said in a statement. "That's why the Mobile Business Licence is so important. It allows mobile businesses to operate in several municipalities with only one licence - so business owners can spend less time doing paperwork and more time on making their businesses a success."

news@ahobserver.com

News PLUG

Family looking for closureChilliwack RCMP

investigators are asking for public help to generate new tips in their search for Tammy Penner who was last seen in January, 2005.

Tammy had contacted her sister in August, 2005, but has not been heard from since.

"This has left us so unsettled, not knowing if there is something we can do to help her," Tammy's step-sister Kelly Wdowiak said.

"We just want to know one way or another if

she is still with us," she said. "We need that closure."

Police said Tammy is a mother, a daughter, a sister and she is missed by many.

"If somebody knows

something about the whereabouts of Tammy Penner, we want them to know that we are certainly here to listen," RCMP Insp. Grant Wilson said.

Tammy goes by several aliases including Tammy Glendinning, Kim McLean, Kim Eileen Glendinning, Tammy Berston, Tammy Eliason and Kim Penner.

Tammy is about 5'7" tall with a slim build and medium-brown hair and blue eyes. She has several tattoos including a male/

female sign on her right upper arm, a black jaguar on her upper left shoulder, and a half-moon on her abdomen.

The Chilliwack RCMP Serious Crime Unit suspects there may be people out there who know something, but for whatever reason, were not willing to speak to police in the past. The RCMP wants to encourage anyone with information to call the at 604-792-4611, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Tammy Penner

4 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Village of Harrison Hot Springs will hold a Public Hearing, pursuant to Section 890 of the Local Government Act of British Columbia, as noted above, on the following items:

1. ZONING BYLAW NO. 1020, 2012Location: The Municipality of the Village of Harrison Hot SpringsPurpose: The bylaw proposes the enactment of a new Zoning Bylaw

for the municipality of the Village of Harrison Hot Springs and the repeal of Zoning Bylaw No. 672, 1996.

The document is available for review on the Village Office website at www.harrisonhotsprings.ca or at the Village Office located at 495 Hot Springs Road, Harrison Hot Springs, during business hours Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.

Village of Harrison Hot SpringsNOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Monday, December 17, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.Council Chambers

495 Hot Springs Road, Harrison Hot Springs, BC

Persons who deem that their interest in property is affected by the proposed zoning bylaw will have an opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing, or if you are unable to attend, you may send your written submission to the Village Office, PO Box 160, Harrison Hot Springs, BC VOM 1KO Attention: Corporate Officer no later than 4:00 p.m. December 17, 2012. All submissions will be recorded and form part of the record of the Public Hearing.

The proposed bylaw may be inspected between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from December 7, 2012 to December 17, 2012, inclusive, in the Village Office, 495 Hot Springs Road, Harrison Hot Springs, BC. Please direct your enquiries to the Manager of Planning and Community Services 604-796-2171.

Please note that no further information or submissions can be considered by Council after the conclusion of the Public Hearing.

Debra KeyCorporate Officer

Poll finds many plan to avoid Port Mann tolls

Jeff NagelBlack Press

A new poll of Lower Mainland drivers who use the Port Mann Bridge shows many plan to shift to untolled routes to avoid the new tolls – especially once a half-price introductory discount ends.

The online survey conducted by Insights West suggests traffic congestion is set to worsen further on free crossings of the Fraser River such as the Alex Fraser and Pattullo bridges.

It shows a third of commuters who normally used the Port Mann Bridge at least weekly intend to actively seek out new routes to avoid the toll. A third said they will drive over the bridge less often while 45 per cent said they will keep using it and pay the tolls.

The same drivers were also asked what they will do once the half-price introductory discount ends and they’re paying $3 tolls to use the new bridge.

More than 55 per cent of weekly Highway 1 users said they’ll seek new routes after the toll doubles and just 31 per cent said they’d keep on paying to cross.

(For all Port Mann users, including less frequent ones, 46.4 per cent said they’d seek out new routes, 33 per cent said they’d use

the bridge less often and 34.5 per cent said they’d use it as usual and pay the toll. Respondents could give more than one answer so results add up to more than 100 per cent.)

Insights West president Steve Mossop said the findings show residents South of the Fraser like the new bridge but remain “bitterly opposed” to tolling of the Highway 1 crossing.

Only time will tell, he said, whether the Port Mann ends up suffering lower-than-expected traffic volumes because of the toll, as happened with TransLink’s Golden Ears Bridge.

“We’ll see if people have the patience and tolerance to actually sit on the Pattullo or the Alex Fraser and wait through the backups to avoid that fee,” Mossop said.

“It’s not people just expressing their anger and frustration. It’s a real entrenched mindset.”

The poll also found Lower Mainland residents remain split on whether the Port Mann should be tolled – 50.8 per cent support tolls while 45 per cent oppose them.

Among frequent Port Mann users, 60 per cent oppose tolls while 40 per cent support them.

“The issue of tolling seems to have divided Metro Vancouver

into two camps,” Mossop said. “Those who are in favour since they don’t drive over the bridge, with the opposition camp being firmly entrenched among drivers who are impacted.”

TReO decal users tend to support the tolls, with 55 per cent in favour to 45 per cent opposed.Mossop said the opposition to tolls reflects “a lot of disgruntled voters” who may yet have an influence in next spring’s provincial election.

“That’s a big number to be opposed,” he said. “Governments lose elections on numbers like that.”

He noted TReO has done an “excellent job” of promoting the bridge and luring drivers to sign up through staged discounts and an offer of 20 free trips.

Nearly 70 per cent of Metro Vancouver drivers polled said they’d signed up, roughly matching statistics reported by the province.

Sixty five per cent said they were satisfied with the new bridge itself.

A majority of drivers who use it at least monthly said they expect it will save them time.The online survey of nearly 600 people has a four per cent margin of error.

MORE ONLINE:Have your say by visiting online

at www.yourinsights.ca.

News

Tolls will send most weekly users to new routes

A new poll has revealed that many commuters plan to avoid using the new Port Mann bridge to avoid paying tolls. Stuart McCall/NORTH LIGHT

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The Village Of� ce and Public Works Departmentwill be closed from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

on Wednesday, December 19, 2012.

The of� ce will be closed for the holidaysDecember 24, 2012 and will re-open on

Wednesday, January 2, 2013*Any payments delivered during the closure will be honored as at December 31, 2012.*

The Public Works Department will be openDecember 24, 27, 28 & 31, 2012.

Garbage, Recyclables and Green Waste will be picked up on December 20 & 27, 2012.

Christmas Tree Pick Up dates are January 11 & 18, 2013

Emergency Contact Numbers:First Class Waste Services – (604) 798-9000

Public Works – (604) 819-5409

VILLAGE OFFICE HOLIDAY CLOSURE

2012/13

Festival of Trees winners The annual Festival of Trees was

a success this year, with several businesses and organizations taking part in the month-long event.

The trees are on display at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa until Jan. 6, and were decorated by the businesses themselves. As an entry fee, each business donated $25, or more, to the Agassiz Harrison Community Services food bank.

This year’s winners are The Tourism Harrison Society, who have won $150 from the Observer.

Second place went to Tall Timber Bed and Breakfast, who could take a break from running their own accommodations to enjoy their prize — an overnight at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort.

Third place went to the Harrison Hot Springs Preschool and Childcare Centre, who won a three-foot party sub from Subway Agassiz.

The festival of trees is presented by the Harrison Agassiz Chamber of Commerce.

news@ahobserver.com

News

Tourism Harrison was this year’s first place winner in the annual Festival of Trees competi-tion. The trees will be on display at the resort until Jan. 6.

‘World’s cleanest’ LNG still the goalTom FletcherBlack Press

The B.C. government isn't wavering from its goal of developing clean energy as negotiations continue for an expanding natural gas export megaproject across the north, Premier Christy Clark says.

In a year-end interview with Black Press this week, Clark responded to Coastal First Nations concerns that liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing at Kitimat and potentially Prince Rupert could proceed without external electricity supplies.

Clark said LNG exports to Asia have been her top economic priority in recent months, with the original two projects on Haisla Nation land at Douglas Channel growing to eight proposals as international interest in B.C. shale gas development has grown. Confidential negotiations are ongoing with energy companies, and decisions on power supply have not yet been made, she said.

"Our plan has always been for the cleanest

LNG produced anywhere in the world, so that's been hydro, wind power and other renewables as well," Clark said. "But we've always said there's going to have to be some natural gas power produced to shape it.

"There's another economic imperative we have, which is to grow our clean energy industry," Clark said. "We've got the third biggest clean tech industry on the globe, after Germany and California, and we want to keep growing that."

Last week the Haisla Nation dropped out of its voluntary association with the Haida, Heiltsuk, Gitga'at and other communities who make up the Coastal First Nations. They are still united in opposition to the Enbridge Northern Gateway oil pipeline proposed to go to Kitimat, but the rest of the Coastal First Nations oppose processing LNG directly by mechanical equipment that burns gas.

Clark said full development of B.C. LNG will require

construction of the Site C hydro dam on the Peace River, as well as smaller hydro developments and wind power such as that proposed off the coast of Haida Gwaii.

The Coastal First Nations occupy what is now known as the Great Bear Rainforest, a vast area of the north and central B.C. coast with a

land use plan negotiated in 1996 with the B.C. and federal governments. A group of U.S.-based environmental foundations matched the two governments' $60 million financing for the protected areas plan, working with environmental groups Greenpeace, Sierra Club and ForestEthics.

6 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

VICTORIA – On Friday, as the federal government was giving the green light to a Malaysian investment of billions more into northern B.C.’s liquefied natural gas megaproject, Coastal First Nations chiefs held their quarterly board meeting in Vancouver.

These are now the most powerful aboriginal leaders in North America, bankrolled by U.S. environmental groups and their wealthy charity foundation backers as guardians of the Great Bear Rainforest.

A major topic was the Haisla Nation, the Kitimat partner that abruptly quit its voluntary association with the Haida, Gitga’at and other communities over  its  plans to develop LNG

exports.This discord comes at a bad

time. Premier Christy Clark has bet heavily on LNG, not just for her government’s future, but the industrial and economic direction of the province for decades to come.

Initial press reports were misleading. One had it that Haisla Chief  Councillor  Ellis Ross, the B.C. government’s key ally on LNG, was “buddying up” with the Harper government on the Enbridge oil pipeline proposed to go to Kitimat, in the heart of Coastal First Nations territory.

Not so. Both Ross and Coastal First Nations executive director Art Sterritt confirmed to me that they remain solidly against the Enbridge proposal. The disagreement is over how to power the processing of LNG, which the Haisla are pioneering with provincial assistance.

Sterritt said  the  Haisla and the rest of the group  were in

agreement  until a few weeks ago. The plan was to follow Clark’s solemn vow to make B.C. LNG the “greenest” in the world.

All parties acknowledge that some of B.C.’s shale gas will have to be burned to process and ship LNG

to Asia. The initial idea was that one or two natural gas-fired power plants would be built, eventually backing up wind, small hydro and other renewable supplies. BC Hydro has 600 megawatts available from its dams, which would require new transmission capacity up to Kitimat to help run

the first two LNG plants proposed in partnership with the Haisla.

Then the play got bigger. The B.C. government transferred Crown land on Douglas Channel to  the Haisla for an LNG project planned by Shell, PetroChina and Korea Gas. And Sterritt said he started getting signals from Victoria that the industry doesn’t want to buy power from outside producers to drive LNG cooling and compression. Instead they wanted to power it directly with gas, using equipment called “mechanical drives” rather than electrical drives.

In a letter to Haisla members explaining why he quit the Coastal First Nations, Ross said he was insulted by Sterritt’s comments that the Haisla were choosing “the dirtiest way possible” to ship LNG. Ross noted that emissions would be about the same if gas is burned in the LNG plant or in a power plant nearby.

That’s true, but Sterritt points out a critical difference. If LNG

producers are allowed to use single-purpose mechanical drives, no renewable energy can ever be added.  And as more LNG producers rush into B.C., reserves that would have lasted 75 to 100 years could be depleted in 30.

And when the gas is gone?“These big, hulking plants that

are going to be in Kitimat are just going to be sitting there, rotting,” Sterritt said. “It happens all over the world.”

B.C.’s clean energy plan envisions extending the BC Hydro grid, developing run-of-river and wind farms such as the big offshore proposal off Haida Gwaii, and ultimately a future beyond oil and gas.

Now, in their rush to develop LNG, Clark and Energy Minister Rich Coleman seem poised to abandon that strategy.

Tom Fletcher is legislative reporter and columnist for Black Press and BCLocalnews.com

tfletcher@blackpress.ca

Clean LNG can still be done

Speak up, be heardIn both Harrison and Agassiz,

the opportunity to speak out about the shaping of your community is nigh.

On Monday, Dec. 17 at 4 p.m., the District of Kent is opening its doors, and ears, to comments and suggestions for its business licensing and regulation bylaw.

It may be a tough time for some to attend, with the CP Holiday Train chugging through later that night, but this is a meeting that is worth attending.

The mayor has implored, several times, over the past few meetings that he genuinely wants the public to start speaking up about policy changes, the direction council is heading, and the future of the community —  and that means those who are in favour of the current direction and those who are not.

Monday night is a perfect chance to learn more. If you can't make it out on Monday night, they've decided to hold a second public meeting, at 4 p.m. on Jan. 7.

They clearly want to hear your

opinions, before making changes to this bylaw. And to be clear, it's a bylaw that affects nearly everyone in the community, whether you run a daycare, a small shop, a large business, or even plan to sell eggs at the roadside.

And in Harrison, mark your calendars for the round table discussion planned in the new year.

Unlike the Q&A sessions that follow council, this discussion will be led by an outside consultant, and your comments will be recorded and directed to council in a report.

This is your chance to speak up. Want to see more trails in the community? Say so at the meeting. Not a fan of the lagoon? Bring a suggestion for change.

Residents in both communities should embrace these meetings, and attend in full force. Get discussion going. Give your feedback. It's your community, after all.

The people you elected to speak for you are asking for your opinion. So we say, why not speak while you're being listened to?

Opinion

“If LNG producers are allowed to use single-purpose mechanical drives, no renewable

energy can ever be added.”

Will you avoid the tolled bridges?

To answer, go to the Home page of our

website: www.ahobserver.com

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Copy here Should health care workers have a choice in getting a flu

shot? Yes 47% No 52%

laST WEEK WE aSKEd:

Publ ished at Agassiz , Harr ison Hot Spr ings, Popkum/Bridal Fal ls, Rosedale and surrounding areas by the Black Press Group Ltd.Canadian Publ icat ions Mai l Product Sales Agreement #116572

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604-796-4302news@ahobserver.com

advErtising

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The Agassiz ❖ Harrison OFFiCe HOuRSTues.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed Sat., Sun., & Mon.

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Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012 7

SudokuDec. 14, 2012

Intermediate LevelSee answers in Classifieds.

The Agassiz ❖ Harrison

Of� ce Hours 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Fridayclosed Mondays

Deadlinesadvertising: 4:00 pm Fridayclassi� eds: 4:00 pm Tuesday

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I have been anticipating the expansion of the recreation centre for a while now. I am very much in favor.

My wife and I have been attending this great facility for almost as long as the 6 and a half years we have lived here. The staff has always been great and the fitness trainers are very motivating and knowledgeable.

Upgrades to some of the

fitness equipment as well as the purchase of extra equipment have assisted in making every day pleasurable to attend.

I have read the article in the Observer, regarding the cost and how it will be funded. The questions and answers are quite interesting and in some people’s minds, I am sure they are unacceptable.

The $2.5 million dollar budget is huge. The

scenarios of how it will be paid for may be concerning to many residents. I for one feel the cost is worth it and the reason is because I use it and see the need for a larger facility.

The participation of the community is very large and has created the need for expansion.

I wish more residents would attend this facility to find out how motivated you can become by working out

on your own or taking one of the many fitness classes, available to anyone.

Instructors can show you how to use the equipment to your full advantage and although it is best to always ask a trainer, many other participants are usually willing to assist you.

Very qualified trainers instruct the fitness classes and there is no fear of attending any class, as you work out mostly at your

own pace. There are classes that fit

any lifestyle, from someone with heart problems to the more energetic people who have made fitness part of their life.

I encourage everyone to support this project to its fullest. If you don’t participate in any fitness regime, think of the community as a whole.

It is giving people of all ages a way to enjoy a

healthy and long life. It will cut down on ailments as you age and for the younger generation, help you lead a better lifestyle by participating. In general, as one fitness trainer continues to stress, “IT’S GOOD FOR YOU”, as we all groan.

Support this endeavor and take advantage of what it offers now and in the future.

Ted R Fecho

MailbagCost of Agassiz gym expansion worth it

Feedback, comments and letters to the editor can be submitted by email: news@ahobserver.com

Harrison shouldn't be compared to other pay park towns

Hello out there.I just wanted to let you folk know,

that the Council of the Village of Harrison Hot Springs has outdone themself with the Christmas decorations along the Promenade from the Westside all the way to the East side.

It looks fantastic, I hope you come

out and take pictures of it.I can not give enough praise to all

involved.Job well done. Cheers and Merry ChristmasFrohe WeihnachtenJoyeux Noel    

Gerd TrubenbachHarrison Hot Springs

As a new business owner, I am very concerned by the thought of pay parking being introduced in Harrison Hot Springs. Harrison Hot Springs is an awesome location but the reality is that our summer season is very short and given a little rain it can be difficult to stay profitable. Not only that but in B.C., tourists have a lot of great

alternatives that provide lakes, mountains and nature, right now one of Harrison’s only competitive advantages is the fact that we do not charge for parking.

Talking to a lot of tourists as well as clients from Agassiz since starting, what I hear is that people will stop coming or go elsewhere for their lunch, coffee, walking break if

Harrison brings in pay parking. I know my business cannot afford that and so I really hope we can keep pay parking out of Harrison.

It seems some residents think pay parking will solve the Villages problems by generating revenue to pay for beach cleanup while at the same time limiting the number of tourists. From where

I sit, it seems only reasonable that since businesses pay a tax rate three times higher than residents for fewer municipal services that some of our business tax dollars go to beach cleanup. I think these same residents forget

that Harrison was a resort destination before it ever became a residential community. The reason that a small community like Harrison generates nearly half of its property taxes from businesses is the fact

that we have a small residential base and our businesses attract enough tourists to keep the business community alive. Drive away the tourists, the business community will shrink and residential taxes will go up.

Looking at other communities that have implemented pay parking, our community is much different. i.e. White Rock only generates five per cent of its tax

Christmas lights impressive

Continued on 10

Rave Reviews...Flint Lockwood thinks he’s a genius. But none

of the things he invented are useful. His father thinks he should give it up. When the community that he lives in, is in an economic crisis because their primary source of income was shut down,

Flint decides to try his latest invention, a machine that can turn water into food. But something goes

wrong and the machine ends up in the atmosphere. Later it starts raining food...

The Observer, Petro’s Pizza, The Video Station, and The Adventure Park at Tugboat Junction are inviting kids up to the age of 12 years to join the Observer Fun Club. When your name appears in this section, come in to the Observer offi ce within 2 weeks with this clipping & you will receive:

• a free pizza from Pizza Plus • a free movie rental from the Video Station • a free activity pass from The Adventure Park at Tugboat Junction

• a free book from the Agassiz Public Library upon presenting the birthday letter to them. The Agassiz ❖ Harrison ❖ Hope

FUNclub

8 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

The Harrison-Kent Community Singers(Formerly the HHS Multicultural Choir)

Invite you to their annual

December 16th at 3 pm(Doors open at 2:45)

Invite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annualInvite you to their annual

December 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmDecember 16th at 3 pmChristmas Concert

Harrison Memorial HallTaking Donations

Serving Refreshments

6524 Pioneer Ave., Agassizwww.pioneeracres.org

Open Daily 10am - 5pmClosed Mondays

100’S OF TREES TO CHOOSE FROMU-Cut or U-DigDouglas Fir, Grand Fir, Fraser Fir, Noble Fir, Black Hills Spruce & White Spruce, Blue Spruce. Enjoy a Bon� re, Hot Chocolate & Hayrides Saturdays & Sundays

Got a sports tip, photo or story?

Email: news@ahobserver.com

History buff brings life to 1928 steam engine

Jessica PetersThe Observer

When Ray Crook was just a youngster in elementary school, he spun his teacher an amazing sea-faring tale.

He spoke to her about traveling from North America down to Venezuela for the summer. But the story got even richer than that.

“I went there on an oil tanker!” he told her, with all the enthusiasm a six-year-old could muster.

Naturally, that unbelievable story led the teacher to call Crook’s mother, to discuss how young boys like to tell fibs.

So imagine that teacher’s shock to hear the mother say: “Well, he’s telling the truth.”

What the teacher may not have known is that Crook’s father was a sailor, as was his father’s father, and an uncle, too. So it comes as no surprise that Crook’s own life led him out into the ocean.

Crook is now a marine engineer by trade — has been for 34 years.

“My father took me to sea when I was five years old,” he says, “and that was it.”

He has spent most of his life aboard tankers and ocean liners, working on their steam engines. It’s a career that takes him all over the world, and back again. But when he gets home, he doesn’t hang up his tools and rest.

He loves steam engines too much to leave them alone.

“I just love it to death,” he says. “It’s good old fashioned engineering.”

But his favourite steam engine is his 1928 Wallis and Steevens, which he’s been operating since 2001. He acquired it through a partnership with the Atchelitz Threshermen’s Association in Chilliwack.

“It was languishing in the back,” he says. “Nobody was restoring it

… so I took the bull by the horns and they said by all means.”

There were some bumps along the road to outright owning the engine, and it’s quite a process to keep it legally insured, he said. But keeping it operating and sharing it with the world is all worth it to Crook.

Just as it’s no surprise the boy who went to sea at five years old became a marine engineer, it’s equally assumable a man who collects antique steam engines is interested in history.

Crook lives for it. He scours the internet for all bits of history related to steam engines, from his home in Hope. And when he’s done that, he heads overseas to where the story of his engine began — Basingstoke, England.

It’s listed as number 7985 in the Wallis and Steevens registry. Crook knows this because he has

his own copy (see illustration next page). He also has copies of the original mechanical drawings for the engine, which he obtained from the Museum of English Rural Life, in Reading, England. It was purchased for the City of Vancouver, through Engineering Supplies Limited, located at 1114 Hamilton St in Vancouver, in 1928 at a price of $5,146. The engine went into service on March 7, 1929. It would have been busy paving roads at a time when Vancouver was growing quickly in size, and many of the city’s landmark buildings began construction at this time. The steam engine was used up until 1959, when the City of Vancouver disposed of it.

Crook has a folder almost a foot thick of papers relating to his engine, but not all of them are historical. To keep it running for exhibition use, he has to keep it insured. And that means everything from physical inspection by a boiler inspector, keeping a meticulous paper trail and even taking detailed ultrasounds, charting the large machine square inch by square inch.

“When I first got it certified, I had to do a complete ultrasound of the boiler and shell to determine the thickness of the materials so it would be safe,” he says. “It passed with flying colours.”

Keeping it operating also means replacing parts as they’re needed, and you can’t just run to

CommunityPlug

Ray Crook drives his steam engine though Agassiz as part of the Fall Fair parade in September this year. He hopes to be able to bring the 85 year-old machine back in future years.

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

Continued on 9

Marine engineer puts knowledge and experience to work in rebuilding and showing antique

“My father took me to sea when I was

five years old.”

Ray CrookMLA Chilliwack

Hope

GwenO’Mahony

Christmas with GwenCommunity Office Christmas Open HOuseWednesday, December 193 - 6pmplease join us for a cup of hot chocolate, Christmas treats and good company.

Best Wishes to you and your family for Christmas & the Holiday Season and the hope of a bright

New Year. “Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays”

Join us in supporting the work of Meadow Rose society. We’ve trimmed our small trees with ornaments which are available for a minimum donation of $2 to Meadow Rose. Drop by anytime between now and December 21 to participate. This organization supports Healthy Babies for a

Healthy Future! Check out www.meadowrose-society.com to find out more.

suite 101A - 8615 Young Rd. Chilliwack604.702.9633

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012 9

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FOR ONLY $5.00

There's no need for local Senior Citizens to be on their own Christmas morning . . .

. . . so at the Agassiz Legion on December 25th

(Christmas morning)from 8:00 am-10am

we are hosting:

>> BREAKFAST>> GIFTS

>>COMPANIONSHIPYou must have a ticket to

attend, and they are FREE from the Agassiz Legion

& the Agassiz Library.

ACE

Agassiz Centre for EducationCommunity Harmony Opportunity Integrity Cooperation Excellence

For more information on how to donate to make this a memorable event or to volunteer please email Sandy at:

sandyb@sd78.bc.ca

Enjoy a Christmas Morning Event with:

Research and travel help fuel his passion for engines

Community

the local autobody shop for an 85 year-old machine.

“I couldn’t buy these things even if I wanted to,” Crook says. “They all have to be handmade.”

He’s not aware of any other steam engine that is licensed and insured to run on the roads, although there are a few other steam engines across the province. But they are few and far between he said, as rare as the people who know how to fix them and operate them.

“Here in the province of B.C., there are about 20 of us,” he says. “We’re quite rare.”

He wishes that Canada would cherish the history of steam engines in the same manner that they do in the United Kingdom, where museums and histor ica l ly-minded events abound. If Canada would promote its history more, he feels it would be a benefit to tourism.

“I go (to the U.K.) pretty much every year, for the last ten years,” he says, staying anywhere from three to five weeks each time. “ And I drop money at every one of them (events), every time I go.”

The Great Dorset Steam Fair is one of the biggest outdoor events in the world, stretching across an astounding 600 acres, for five days.

He would like to be able to show his engine locally more, but there aren’t many chances to do so. He was thrilled to be a part of the Agassiz Fall Fair parade this year, though, and being able to share his knowledge of steam engines and history with everyone he met.

“Everybody loves to talk about it with you, and that’s probably the biggest joy you get out of something like this,” he says. “It’s that interaction with people, and the people in Agassiz were so thrilled that I wanted to bring it to the parade.”

He didn’t do it alone. He’s had a lot of support from Ray Zervini at

Canyon Cable in Hope, along with Richard Zervini. The steam engine was transported to Agassiz by Emil Anderson Maintenance, and kept at the Schwichtenberg farm

before the parade. He also gave thanks to the fair board, for including him in the festivities, and he hopes to return to future events.

“That’s what makes it all worthwhile,

people like the councillor’s (Holger S c h w i c h t e n b e r g ) family who let me store it there,” he says. “It just makes you feel good inside.”

news@ahobserver.com

The affadavit of manafacturer for Ray Crook’s 1928 steam engine is just one of many docu-ments he’s acquired through research and travel over the last decade.

From 8

Ray Crook rests for a minute on the Sawyer Massey at Steam Era in Milton Ontario.

10 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

your old gold = christmas gifts

S I N C E 1 9 8 1

Abbotsford 604.853.9192 www.leesfinejewellery.com

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Christmas Surprise!Bring in your finished picture to the Observer office for a chance to win a Christmas Surprise!All pictures must be in by 4 pm on Tuesday, December 18th to qualify. The winner’s picture will be printed in the Observer on Friday December 21st!

Hey Kids! (aged 12 & under)

7167 Pioneer avenue agassiz

The Agassiz ❖ Harrison

50 Years Ago, 1962

• Beginning to take shape is the new building under construction for the Elk’s Lodge. Situated on an acre of land on Heath Road, the building will be 31’ by 91’ and will consist of a large assembly area above a basement containing the kitchen and a dining area to seat 150 persons.

• Gibson’s Red and White: butter, Fraser Valley - 0.57¢/lb; shrimp, tin, Sea Pals, 4 1/2 oz - .049¢; Japanese Oranges, last shipment, box - $1.98;

mixed Christmas candy, 16 oz   pkg - .0.39¢.

• Harrison Hot Springs council will ask the Lower Mainland Regional Planning Board for help in planning and zoning the village. A plan for development of the village is needed as is a building code.  Lack of these things is interfering with opportunities for new houses and immediate action should be taken.

Submitted by the Agassiz Harrison Historical Society

Community

base from business and also leases the entire water frontage from CN rail for $350,000.00 a year! It is mandatory for residents to pay for a yearly parking decal no matter where they live in White Rock.

It is important to remember that the White Rock beach strip is not all pay parking, travel down the road a couple hundred meters and you will find tons of free parking spaces. White Rock also has a population of 16,000 residents which helps businesses stay healthy in the off season and winter months.

We are not Whistler and we should not be compared to Whistler. They are in the top five tourist destinations in North America and were currently home to the Winter Olympics.

In Whistler pay parking was so controversial the Mayor and Council

who introduced and supported it were let go, and a number of the pay parking stalls were removed.

Similarly we should not be compared to Cultus Lake who implemented pay parking at the beach and not where the stores are located. Three blocks back where the stores are located you will find parking lots that do not charge for parking in order for the business community to sustain themselves and thrive.

Perhaps we should consider cutting our Village budget and make the necessary cutbacks to make it work with the revenue we currently generate.

People need to think this through before jumping on the pay parking bandwagon. Pay parking = fewer tourists = fewer businesses = higher residential taxes.

Richard FifeMuddy Waters

From X

Mailbag: Parking

q ECHOES FROM THE PAST

Elk’s Lodge begins to

take shape

Harrison Hot Springs Mayor Leo Facio joined in with some local children singing carols outside the Harrison Memorial Hall on Dec. 1, as part of the entertainment for Breakfast with Santa.

Christmas carols

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012 11

Community

Seniors don’t have to be alone

Jessica PetersThe Observer

Christmas is often a time to be spent with family. But that’s not always reality for some seniors.

That was the thinking behind last year’s Christmas morning breakfast, hosted by ACE students, the Legion and other volunteers. They all gave up their Christmas morning — and gladly — to spend the most wonderful time of the year with local seniors who would otherwise be spending it alone.

And this year, they’re doing it again.

Sandy Balascak, administrator for ACE, said she’s hoping to get the word out about the event so that even more seniors will come out and enjoy the festivities. The breakfast begins at 8 a.m. and runs until 10 a.m., at the Agassiz Legion. Even Santa Claus is scheduled to make an appearance, she added.

“This is just something for those seniors who would otherwise be alone on Christmas morning,” she added, as a way of boosting people’s spirits and also giving back to the community.

news@ahobserver.com

school helps serve breakfast on Christmas morning

ACE students and staff, along with many other volunteers, will be serving up hot breakfast and Christmas cheer to local seniors on Christmas morning this year, as they did last year.

Observer FILe PhOTO

Time for families to get creative

Families throughout Agassiz and Harrison will once again have the opportunity to be published authors.

The Family Story Writing Contest is back, says Debbie Lamberger, the Agassiz-Harrison Community Services literacy coordinator.

Families are asked to write a fully illustrated children’s story.

The competition is open to all

families, and the deadline (Dec. 28) is looming. If you and your relatives are interested in this fun competition, pick up a package from the Agassiz Library. The winning book will be published in January, and there will be a book launch at the Agassiz Library on January 30.

For more information, phone Lamberger at 604-796-2585.

story writing contest open again

( Due to space limitations, each week we will publish a di� erent set of groups and activities from the community).

Reading – Unbound! Learn how

to use your eReader, iPhone,

SmartPhone, iPad or tablet to

access books NOT on paper. Book

an appointment to learn how to

access the library’s collection of

free digital books.604-796-9510

Lions TV Bingo Thursday nights

at 6 pm on Shaw Cable. Pick up

your bingo cards at The Source

- Chehalis Store & Ledoux Hard-

ware

Advent Evening of Song with

musicians Bruce & Cheryl Harding

Sat., Dec. 15 at 7:30 pm at Agassiz

United Church. Admission by

Donation

Hooked on Books: Agassiz - Har-

rison Library Book Club. Prepare

for a great discussion on Patrick

deWitt’s darkly comedic western

“The Sisters Brothers”- winner

of the 75th Governor General’s

Literary Award. We’re meeting

Wed., Dec. 19th at 6:30 pm at the

Agassiz Library. Pick up your book

now! The talk is lively, the people

friendly & the refreshments -

free! Drop-in, no-membership

required club. *Please note that

we’ll be meeting a week earlier

than usual due to the Christmas

Holiday closures!

A Community Christmas Dinner

at the Agricultural Hall on Dec.

20. Doors open at 5:45 Dinner is

served from 6 to 8 pm. $20 per

ticket Includes a turkey & ham

bu� et with all the trimmings. All

proceeds to the Community Food

Bank. Limited amount of tickets

to be sold. Tickets at the Agassiz

Fire Hall, Pioneer Motors & Com-

munity Services.

Events

Agassiz Christian School invites you to their Christmas musical - “I Witness News: Live from Bethlehem”. Join our students as they portray news reporters who encounter the sinister King Herod, run into all sort of trouble & through the adventure come face-to-face with God’s humbling message of salvation. Performances

will be 11 am & 7 pm, Wed., Dec. 19.

Christmas Services at Agassiz United Church: Thurs., Dec. 20 at 7:30 pm “Hard to be Merry Christmas”. A quiet time to re� ect when the season is di� cult.

Christmas Eve Service - December 24 at 7:30 pm at Rosedale United & 9:00 pm at Agassiz United.Harrison Gospel Chapel - Youth & their families are going Christmas Caroling on Dec 15th, leaving the church at 1 PM. Watch for them & sing along . . . as they pass by your home on the hay wagon. They will be collection non perishable food for local needs. Sunday services -10:30 am

Group 1 of 4Join Us in Worship

Best Rates☎ Chris

@ 604.796.4301 For features in Community Calendar

December 2012December 2012

Community Corner

May this Christmas bringPeace and Joy for everyone.

12 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

F R E S H , L O C A L L Y M A D EWhite sandwich bread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3Whole wheat & multi grain bread . . . . . $4German rye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5Whole fruit pies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15Take & Bake cinnamon rolls . . . . . . . . . 4/$8

H O U R SMon. - Fri. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9:30 am - 5:00 pmSaturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10:00 am - 4:00 pm Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed

604.491.1235 • 7254 - A Pioneer Ave., Agassiz

MAGPIE'S B A K E R Y

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE S A T U R D A Y, D E C E M B E R 8 T H

Sample Christmas baking & enjoy complimentary apple cider or coffee!

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Council will hold two Public Meetings, in accordance with Section 59 of the Community Charter, in the Centennial Centre, Municipal Hall, 7170 Cheam Avenue, Agassiz, BC, on:

Monday, December 17, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.and

Monday, January 7, 2013 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

to consider presentations from the public with respect to the “Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 1485, 2012”.

At the meetings, the public may make representations to Council respecting matters contained in the proposed bylaw and all persons who believe that their interest is affected by the proposed bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard or to present written submissions.

Written submissions received before 3:00 p.m. on Monday, December 17, 2012 will be presented for consideration at the public meeting of December 17, 2012.

Written submissions received after 3:00 p.m. on December 17, 2012 and before 3:00 p.m. on Monday, January 7, 2013 will be presented for consideration at the public meeting of January 7, 2013.

The “Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 1485, 2012” may be inspected between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding holidays and office closures, from December 7, 2012 to January 7, 2013 inclusive, at the reception desk in the Municipal Office located at 7170 Cheam Avenue, Agassiz, BC.

The “Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 1485, 2012” is also available on the District’s website atwww.district.kent.bc.ca.

Please note that the Municipal Hall will be closed from Monday, December 24, 2012 to Tuesday, January 1, 2013 inclusive. Enquiries may be directed to the undersigned at (604) 796-2235.

Darcey Kohuch, Director of Development ServicesDated this 7th day of December, 2012

Community

Community caroling

Choirs from all around Agassiz, Harrison and Rosedale gathered together last Thursday for the annual Community Christmas Concert.

The choirs included a mix of large and small choirs, accompanied by the Chilliwack Community Band led by conductor Dale Warr.

The Agassiz Agricultural Hall was filled to capacity with standing room only, leading

to a generous amount of donations being given during the offering.

The annual event is a fundraiser for Agassiz Community Services, and cash and food donations were being collected on their behalf.

The event was emceed by Allan Roth and included an opening prayer by Pastor John Koster and benediction by Pastor Tom Grey.

The Agassiz-Rosedale United Church Choir performed Sing With the Angels (left) as part of the Community Christmas Concert in Agassiz Agricultural Hall. The Agassiz Christian School (in blue shirts) sang Hear the Bells of Christmas. The night’s orchestral music was provided by the Chilliwack Community Band, led by conductor Dale Warr. The Sts’ailes Community School Performance Group sang Do You Hear?

Photos by Jessica Peters

Friday, December 14, 2012, Agassiz Harrison Observer 13

Sudoku

Dec

embe

r 14

, 201

2

AN

SWER

S

Barry Wayne SimmonsJune 16, 1939–December 14, 2011

Th ose we love are never really lost to us, we feel them in so many special ways,through family, friends & pets they always cared about and dreams they left behind.In beauty that they added to our days, in words of wisdom we still carry with us and memories that will never be gone...Th ose we love are never really lost to us for everywhere their special love lives on.

Remembered with love, Jane, Karen & Dwayne, Paige, Riley, Blair & Anna, family,

friends and Fancy

Anthony (Tony)Christopher Lewis

December 16th, 1947 - September 11th, 2007

65th BirthdayLovingly remembered on your

Anthea, Tait & Shayla

CARPENTER WITH FRAMING EXPERIENCE WANTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IN AGASSIZ.

Layout experience an asset. Could turn into a permanent full time position.

Please call Matt @ 250-826-9179

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

7 OBITUARIES

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

16 CHRISTMAS CORNER

CHRISTMAS PARTY/POT LUCK

The Chilliwack Métis Associa-tion is holding it’s Annual Christmas Party/Potluck on De-cember 15 at 5pm with dinner at 5:30 pm at Kekinow Hall 45555 Knight Road Sardis, BCPlease bring a non perishable item for our food hamper and a dish to feed 5 people.

5 IN MEMORIAM

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

33 INFORMATION

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EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION

108 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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109 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION

114 DRIVERS/COURIER/TRUCKING

CLASS 1 DRIVERS B.C/ABWE ARE HIRING!

COMPANY DRIVERS ANDOWNER OPERATORS

Permanent positions open. Lots of miles, great pay and benefi ts package. New equipment with

lease opportunity EXPAND YOUR CAREER!Contact: George Costello

PH: 1-877-914-0001WWW.TRANSX.COM

CLASS 1 TRUCKDRIVERS NEEDED

• HIGHWAY(BC Interior & AB.

• FAST-CARDED(Washington and Oregon)

WE OFFER;• STEADY F/T WORK

• COMPETITIVE WAGES• EXTENDED MEDICAL& DENTAL BENEFITS

• OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVANCEMENT

Requirements/Qualifi cations: · Valid BC issued Class 1 license & min. one (1) year of safe driving experience · Driver’s abstract · Knowledge of HOS / DOT regulations · Professional in appearance

Please submit resume & current drivers

abstract to: bccareers@canadacartage.comor fax: 604-888-5887

Our organization is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from Aboriginal people, members of visible minority groups and women.

124 FARM WORKERS

4 Seasonal Farm Workers for West-can Grhs at 2527 210 St in Langley to start Feb. 12, 2013. Work is la-bour intensive, includes: fi lling pots, moving/spacing potted plants, weeding, pulling orders, shovelling soil, outside work and other related duties. Must have own transpora-tion. Experience required. $10.25/hr. Email resume by Dec. 21 to westcangrhs@shaw.ca

130 HELP WANTED

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

109 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION

130 HELP WANTED

HI my name is Vandy, $1000 re-ward for anyone who can author a life story about the ups and downs of my intriguing life...Creativity and imagination is an asset, short and sweet on the poetic spectrum pref-erable, whilst keeping within the guidelines of fact overriding fi ction, embellishment an option but not most likely not necessary as my life is interesting enough to be authored and published within local newspa-pers without exaggeration as a ne-cessity. You can reach me @ 778-677-5446 or 885-8002 or e-mail vandybuck@hotmail.com

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Required for an Alberta Trucking Company. One Class 1 Driver. Must have a mini-mum of 5 years experience pulling low boys and driving off road. Candidate must be able to pass a drug test and be willing to relocate to Edson, Alberta. Scheduled Days Off. Call Lloyd 780-723-5051

160 TRADES, TECHNICAL

HINO CENTRAL Fraser Valley is seeking a Commercial Vehicle Technician (Senior Apprentice or Journeyman) to add to our growing team in Langley. We offer a com-petitive salary and full benefi ts in a fully-equipped ultra-modern facility. Visit www.hinocentral.com Apply to: hr@hinocentral.com; fax: 780-638-4867.

NORTHERN ALBERTA clearing contractor seeks experienced Buncher and Skidder Operators for work in Northern Alberta. Subsistence and accommodations provided; jobs@commandequipment.com. Fax 780-488-3002.

NOW HIRING A TRADESPER-SON-PLUMBER/SPRINKLER FIT-TER IN SURREY SCHOOLS. The successful candidate will carry out planned and emergency mainte-nance, repair, and installation of in-stitute water, gas, drainage, domes-tic hot water systems and backfl ow prevention assemblies. For more info and to apply, visit www.makea-future.ca/surrey or www.surreys-chools.ca.

PERSONAL SERVICES

173E HEALTH PRODUCTS

GET 50% OFF - Join Herbal Magic this week and get 50% Off. Lose weight quickly, safely and keep it off, proven results! Call Herbal Magic today! 1-800-854-5176

182 FINANCIAL SERVICES

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: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is NOT an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Cana-da Revenue Agency? Call Bob Al-len @ 250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Reve-nue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca

PERSONAL SERVICES

182 FINANCIAL SERVICES

MONEYPROVIDER.COM. $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.

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188 LEGAL SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

283 GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

ALWAYS GUTTER Cleaning Ser-vice, Repairs, 20 yrs exp. Rain or shine.7dys/wk.Simon 604-230-0627

GUTTER CLEANINGSAME DAY SERVICE AVAILABLECall Ian @ 604-724-6373

300 LANDSCAPINGknoke trucking

320 MOVING & STORAGE

1PRO MOVING & SHIPPING. Real Professionals, Reasonable. Rates. Different From the Rest. 604-721-4555.

329 PAINTING & DECORATINGNorthstar Painting Ltd.- The Residential Specialists. BIG jobs, Small jobs - We do it all! Interior and Exterior Projects. Master Painters at Students Rates. WCB Safe, Reli- able, Effi cient & Quality Paint. 778.344.1069

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

329 PAINTING & DECORATING

www.paintspecial.com 604.339.1989 Lower Mainland

604.996.8128 Fraser ValleyRunning this ad for 8yrs

PAINT SPECIAL3 rooms for $299,

2 coats any colour (Ceiling & Trim extra) Price incls

Cloverdale Premium quality paint.NO PAYMENT until Job is

completed. Ask us about ourLaminate Flooring &

Maid Services.

338 PLUMBING

FULL PLUMBING SERVICES• Hvac Gas Fitting • Electrical*Free Est. *Licensed *Insured

24hr. Emergency ServiceC & C Electrical Mechanical

604-475-7077

353 ROOFING & SKYLIGHTS

GL ROOFING. Cedar shakes, As-phalt shingles, fl at rfs. Cln Gutters $80. Liability Insur. 1-855-240-5362

Mainland Roofi ng Ltd.25 yrs in roofi ng industry

Family owned & operated. Fully ins. We do Cedar Shakes, conversions,

concrete tiles, torchon, fi bre-glass shingles, restoration

& repairs. 20 yr labour warr.604-427-2626 or 723-2626

www.mainlandroof.com

356 RUBBISH REMOVAL

bradsjunkremoval.com

Haul Anything...But Dead Bodies!!

604.220.JUNK(5865)Serving The

Lower Mainland Since 1988

PETS

477 PETS

AMERICAN BULLDOGS $1200 Ready for Xmas 4 females, 3 males 1st shots dewormed(604)230-1999

CATS GALORE, TLC has for adoption spayed & neutered adult cats. 604-309-5388 / 604-856-4866

CATS OF ALL DESCRIPTION in need of caring homes! All cats are

Spayed, neutered, vaccinated and dewormed. Visit us at

fraservalleyhumanesociety.com or call 1 (604)820-2977

CHIHUAHUA, FEMALE, 1 year old, long hair, $500. Please call 604-794-7347

COCKAPOO-POO PUPPIESVet checked. Non-shedding.

VERY CUTE! $575. 604-541-9163

German Shepherd Puppies, Ameri-can Canadian bloodline, wonderful temperament, great confi rmation $1200. 856-2004 / 604-908-7913

Phone: 604.796.4300 | Toll Free: 1.866.865.4460Fax: 604.796.2081 | Email: kerry@bcclassified.com

After-Hours Call Centre:

toll free: 1.866.575.5777Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 5:00pm bcclassified.com

The Agassiz ❖ Harrison ❖ Hope

14 Agassiz Harrison Observer, Friday, December 14, 2012

RANCHER STYLE 1/2 DUPLEX FOR RENT2 bedrooms, 1 bath, kitchen , living room,

4 appliances & garage. No pets, No smoking. 1/2 month damage deposit.

$700/month Available Dec. 1st. | Call 604 845 2705.

1988 FleetwoodAvion Triple Axle Trailer

38 foot - w/3 solar panels.

$6,000Call 604-491-3610

Land Act:Notice of Intention to Applyfor a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that James Killer and Lorraine Killer of 5616 Rockwell Drive, Harrison Hot Springs B.C. V0M-1K0, intends to make application to the Province of British Columbia, for an access roadway to the south east corner of Block B DL 419 of Yale Division of Yale District.

The Land File Number is 2410828.Comments on this application may besubmitted in two ways:1) Online via the Applications and Reasonsfor Decision Database website at:www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jspwhere details of this application, including maps can also be found.2) By mail to the Senior Land Officer at 200-10428 153rd Street, Surrey, BC V3R 1E1.Comments will be received by the Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations until January 25, 2013. Comments received after this date may not be considered.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be provided to the public upon request. For more information, contact the FOI Advisor at the Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations regional office.

Cascade Peninsula, Harrison Lake

PETS

477 PETS

CHINESE SHAR-PEI PUPPIESMINI’S/TOYS - M & F

$1200.00 604-315-8774WWW.WRINKLESRUS.COM

GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES -P.B. $1200: Born Sept. 29th. 2 Male, 1 Female. (778)863-6332

GERMAN SHEPHERDS registered. All ages & colours. $750-$1500. 604-882-9555. DeaSmith@shaw.ca

NEED A GOOD HOME for a good dog or a good dog for a good home? We adopt dogs! Call 604-856-3647 or www.856-dogs.com

PITBULL puppies. 5 males, 4 females. 6 wks old. White & brown. $350. each obo. 604-300-0807

Swiss Mountain pups, short-hair, family raised, gentle, vet chck, dewormed. $500. 604-795-7662

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

533 FERTILIZERS

WEED FREE Mushroom Manure 13 yards - $160 or Well Rotted 10 yards - $180. 604-856-8877

545 FUEL

1YR Seasoned Alder Birch MapleClean, Split, DRY & Delivered.

Family Operated for 20 yrs. (604) 825-9264

548 FURNITURE

MATTRESSES starting at $99• Twins • Fulls • Queens • Kings

100’s in stock! www.Direct Liquidation.ca (604)294-2331

NEW PILLOWTOP QUEENMATTRESS SET. In packaging.

Incls. Warranty $200! 604-798-1608

*NEW QUEEN MATTRESS SET*Pillow Top in Plastic. Mfr. Warranty Must Sell $200 ~ 604-484-0379

560 MISC. FOR SALE

AT LAST! An iron fi lter that works. IronEater! Fully patented Canada/U.S.A. Removes iron, hardness, smell, manganese. Since 1957. Visit our 29 innovative inventions: www.bigirondrilling.com. Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON.

BIG BUILDING SALE... “”THIS IS A CLEARANCE SALE. YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!”” 20x20 $3,985. 25X24 $4,595. 30X36 $6,859. 35X48 $11,200. 40X52 $13,100. 47X76 $18,265. One End wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca

GREAT GIFT IDEA!! ChillSpot is The COOLEST Dog Bed-A new and innovative, thermodynamically cooled dog bed, that enhances the cool tile surfaces our pets rely on during the warm weather months. Use promo code COOLGIFT For 10 % off! www.chillspot.biz

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

563 MISC. WANTED

Highest Prices Paid for Old CoinsChange, Sets, Gold, OlympicLocal Collector 604-701-8041

715 DUPLEXES/4PLEXES

REAL ESTATE

603 ACREAGE

20 Acres FREE! Buy 40-Get 60 acres. $0-Down, $168/mo. Money Back Guarantee, NO CREDIT CHECKS. Beautiful Views. Roads/Surveyed. Neaer El Paso, Texas. 1-800-843-7537 www.sun-setranches.com

FOR rent - 0.9 acre or 0.6 acre in Industrial Park in Agassiz. Will con-sider selling. Call 604-798-9292

627 HOMES WANTED

WE BUY HOUSES!Older House • Damaged House

Moving • Estate Sale • Just Want Out • Behind on Payments

Quick Cash! • Flexible Terms! CALL US FIRST! 604-657-9422

636 MORTGAGES

RENTALS

706 APARTMENT/CONDO

AGASSIZ - 2 bdrm, 2 bal, $625; bachelor, $500/m + util . N/P, N/S. DD & refs req’d. 1(604)799-3898

AGASSIZ

T. Marlowe Manor1755 - #9 Hwy

Spacious 1 bdrms avail. now, $550/m.

Parking, laundry & elevator. Ask about our seniors discount. Pets upon prior approval.

Call 604-703-3405

Harrison Hot Springs, 1 bd, balco-ny, new fl oors, furnished, across from lake, very bright, quiet, cable incl. n/s, n/p, $650. (604)853-4273

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS 1 BDRM. WATERFRONT

CONDO

F/s, w/d, gas f/p. Newly updatedLooking for responsible mature tenant. NS/NP. D/D. References required. $780/mo Available now.

Call Kelly 604-819-1936

HARRISON - Studio Apartment, Nice quiet & safe building, suitable for single person. Newly renovated, $595/month includes utilities. Avail now. Call 604-794-7132

715 DUPLEXES/4PLEXES

AGASSIZ IMMEDIATE 1/2 Duplex. 3 bdrm 2 1/2 bath, carport, 2 level. stove, fridge & dw. small single pet ok, no smoking. $1050 month. Kar-en at 604.855.9292

736 HOMES FOR RENT

Agassiz. 4 bdrm home on fenced acre. pets ok. 5 appl. RR, DD. $1200/m. Jan 1. 604-858-2319

HALF house for rent. Opposite Es-quimalt High on 828 Colvile Rd. 3 Bedrooms, large yard for pets and kids. 250-885-8002 or 250-885- 8090

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS WATERFRONT! 5 kms from HHS.2 Bdrms, 5 appls, cable TV avail. NS/NP. $1100/mo. 1-604-937-5288

TRANSPORTATION

810 AUTO FINANCING

Auto Financing 1.800.910.6402

DreamTeam Auto Financing“0” Down, Bankruptcy OK -

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

www.iDreamAuto.com DL# 7557

818 CARS - DOMESTIC

LOOKING FOR A DEALON A NEW VEHICLE?

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

No games or gimmicks, dealdirect with local dealerships.

www.newcarselloff.com

No qr code reader?

Text info: 778.786.8271

838 RECREATIONAL/SALE

1996 22’ SLUMBER QUEEN 5thwheel. Interior like new, has to be seen to appreciate. New stereo, back up camera, new HD antenna, m/w, a/c. Includes hitch. $6,500. 604-625-7761 Aldergrove.

845 SCRAP CAR REMOVAL

AAA SCRAP CAR REMOVALMinimum $150 cash for full size vehicles, any cond. 604-518-3673

838 RECREATIONAL/SALE

TRANSPORTATION

845 SCRAP CAR REMOVALThe Scrapper

TOP CA$H PAID TODAY For SCRAP VEHICLES! 2 hr. Service www.a1casper.com (604)209-2026

SCRAP CARS & METALS - CA$H for CARS Up to $300. No Wheels - No Problem! Friendly & Professional Service. Servicing the Fraser Valley 1-855-771-2855

851 TRUCKS & VANS

2006 FORD FREESTAR SE

Ext. van, 130K, 7 pass. loaded, Excellent condition. Only $5450!

604.556.4242

838 RECREATIONAL/SALE

TRANSPORTATION

851 TRUCKS & VANS

KEY TRACK AUTO SALES

CARS & VANS:1996 FORD CONTOUR 4dr auto fully loaded ST#305 THIS WEEK $9991995 FORD EXPLORER 2dr 4X4 5spd 5 pass Aircared ST#299 $24951999 PONTIAC TRANS-PORT van 7 pgr low km ST#281 THIS WEEK $22992002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE 4dr auto st#195 $29951997 HONDA CIVIC 4dr auto Aircare ST#323 $27001999 TOYOTA COROLLA 4dr sedan fully loaded ST#303 $34952000 HONDA CIVIC 4dr auto sedan ST#169 $34952000 TOYOTA COROLLA 4dr auto sdn a/c runs good st#302 $35002002 PONTIAC GRAND AM 4dr sdn auto Aircare low km st#313 $38001997 NISSAN PATHFIND-ER 4dr auto 4X4 runs good ST#221 $39001994 CHEV CAMARO black, auto T-Top low kms 178K ST#279 $4,8002005 PONTIAC GRAND AM 4dr auto AirCrae ST#276 $4900 2007 PONTIAC MONTAN-NA 7pgr Van runs good no accidents ST#312 $69002006 DODGE MAGNUM 4dr wagon auto fully loaded ST#106 $69002007 FORD FUSION 4DR auto, loaded ST#250 $69002007 FORD FUSION 4dr sdn aotu full load Aircare st#321 $7,90004 JEEP LIBERTY 4X4 auto Aircared ST#319 $790004 AUDI A4 4dr sdn, auto Lthr Aircared ST#320 $88002009 CHEV IMPALA 4dr au-to, loaded ST#325 $8,900

TRUCKS THIS WEEK:

2007 FORD F150 reg cab V6 auto long box ST#205 $8,9002005 GMC SLE CREW cab 4X4 auto diesel long box, loaded ST#218 $10,9002001 FORD F350 Dually 4X4 cr/cab XLT 7.3L pwrstrk diesel ST#130 $11,9002008 FORD F150 REG CAB 4x4 auto long box ST#207 $11,9002007 FORD RANGER 4X4 auto S/cab st#193 $11,9002007 FORD F150 supercab cre XLT 4X4 auto fuel load-ed ST#273 $13,9002005 FORD F250 CREW cab Lariat leather diesel 4X4 auto ST#246 $13,9002006 FORD F350 XLT crew cab diesel 4X4 auto long box ST#283 $13,9002006 FORD F350 XLT CREW cab diesel 4X4 auto long box runs good ST#309 $14,9002006 FORD F350 XLT quad cab 4X4 auto diesel only 156K st#17 $15,9002006 FORD F350 XLT crew cab diesel 4X4 auto long box only 160Km st#310 $15,9002006 FORD F350 XLT crew cab diesel 4X4 auto full load-ed long box st#311 $15,9002008 GMC 2500 HD Quad cab 4X4 auto long box ST#267 $15,9002007 CHEV 2500 HD quad cab 4X4 auto gas, shortbox, fully loaded ST#267 $15,9002005 CHEV 2500 HD LS cr/cab Duramax diesel leath-er 4X4 auto ST#190 $15,9002007 FORD F350 LARIAT crew cab diesel 4X4 auto short box ST#275 $18,900

33166 S. Fraser Way, Abbotsford DL#31038

604-855-0666www.keytrackautosales.com

715 DUPLEXES/4PLEXES

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012 15

Meet the ProsMeet the ProsMeet the ProsDECEMBER 2012

Y O U R S O U R C E F O R Q U A L I T Y L O C A L P R O F E S S I O N A L S

For your

ADVERTISING NEEDS:Call Chris @ 604-796-4301

Hope Auto Body Ltd.

• Complete collision & glass services • Courtesy Vehicles • Express repair facility

- all insurance company estimates written here

966 6th Avenue, 604 •869 •5244www.hopeautobody.ca

604.796.0770

Licensed Bonded Insured

• Furnaces• Water Heaters• Boilers• Patio Heaters• Sheet Metal Installations• Gas Fitting• Fireplaces

R.C.E.APPLIANCEREPAIR

604-796-2834Service to all makes of

washers, dryers, stoves, dishwashers & refrigerators PLUMBING SERVICES

KENT PLUMBING& HEATING LTD.

For all your Service, Repair

& Installation Needs“One call does it all”

604-796-270524 HOUR

LICENSED SERVICE

New Cabinetry, and Cabinet Refacing Counter Tops

FINBACK CUSTOM WOODWORKS

6390 Pioneer Ave, AgassizVISIT OUR SHOWROOM

604.796.1196 | 604.857.3375 (cell)

CARPENTRY SERVICES531 CORBETT ST. HOPE, BC. 604-869-9514

FRASER CANYON GLASS LTD.

DOMESTIC & IMPORTS Full ServiceGlass Shop

Windshield replacementsRock chip repairs

All private insurance co.Certified Automotive Glass Technician 35 yrs exp.

debra cornish604.796.0406

service@castlecando.comwww.castlecando.com

CASTLE CLEANING & ORGANIZATION

❧❧❧❧

the ease of organized:clutter busting!closet solutionspantry set ups

office/garage organizationup/down scale move

the comfort of clean:green cleaning products

regular cleaningspring/seasonal cleaning

gift certificatesmove in/out

❧ ❧

KELLY AT604.819.1936

KJLACROIX62@HOTMAIL.COM

THE

RENOVATORCOMPLETE

HOME RENOVATIONSCommercial & ResidentialFibreglass & Wood DeckingMetal Roofs

•

•

•

THE

RENOVATORCOMPLETE HOME RENOVATIONS

Commercial & ResidentialFiberglass & Wood DeckingMetal Roofs

KELLY AT 604.819.1936 • KJLACROIX62@HOTMAIL.COM

•

•

•

Every year, students across Canada enter their best posters, poetry and essays into the Royal Canadian Legion’s Remembrance Contest.

The judging begins at a zone level, and then moves onto provincial, and then national. This year, 196 youth entered the contest.

It was an amazing year for entries,

said Jim Johnson, RCL Br. 32 chairman. But he paid particular notice of an essay written by Grade 6 Kent elementary student Helaman Ochoa.

“I think this one may go national,” he said.

The following is the student’s essay, as submitted.

Students awarded for Legion contest

Community

Agassiz Christian School students participated in the Royal Canadian Legion’s Remembrance Day contest. Their work will be sent on to the next level of judging now. From left back row, are Betty Brewer, RCL Br. 32 Vice President, Devin Frayn, Carter Lanting, Christine Gouwenberg, Max Flukiger, Peter Flukiger, Megan Post, and Jim Johnson, RCL Br. 32 Youth Chairman. In the front row are Camryn Boer, Annalyn Victor, Heidi Nelson, Connor Dieleman, & Joshua Timmers. Missing from the photo are Micheal Frayn & Chad Staiger.

Essays, poetry and posters illustrate local children’s view of war and peace

Helaman OchoaKEnt ElEmEntary studEnt

Kaboom!! My head snapped up, my brow

dripping with sweat. Kaboom!! Instinctively, I threw myself off

my bed. But, being older than I care to mention, I only succeeded in hurting my back. T

here was a flash, followed by another boom. I breathed a sigh of relief. It’s just a lightening storm. Not a gun.

Unwanted memories streamed through my head. I felt for my cane, picked it up, and hobbled over to my desk.

As I sat down, I switched on a lamp. I took out my journal and pen. Writing always seemed to calm me down. But instead of turning to the last page, I opened it to the first page.

The date read Nov. 7, 1943. The first line: I have to  do something to keep myself sane.

I sighed.   Aye, those were dark times. In spite of the unpleasantness, I read on. Maybe writing in this journal will help. I’ve been stuck in this worthless trench for three weeks now! I have cramps in places I didn’t know I had. My blisters have blisters! And the food, ugh! The stale, mouldy bread. Water that tastes like you’re drinking mud.

And to make matters worse, we have to eat in a cold cramped hole.

I chuckled. I had been so desperate I had to talk to myself. I skipped a few pages. Dec. 17, 1944 read the title. Immediately after reading the title, I slammed the book shut. But it was too late. Already, I was transported back to that horrible day...

“Johnny...  Johnny...  Johnny!! Johnny!! Wake up  Johnny!!” shouted a voice that I thought I knew.

“Johnny! Come on!” the voice insisted. My eyes blinked open to see a man... Bill!! Yes, that was it.

“Hey Billy-boy”, I croaked. A loud laughter filled the room, which was looking more and more like a hole by the minute.  

“We’re not kids anymore, John.” Bill whispered harshly.

“Huh? Wha...?” I mumbled. I tried to prop myself up, but an unbearable pain in my left hand stopped me. I howled in pain.

“Easy, now mate” said someone. “Shoo now, all of you!” scolded

the nurse, “John here needs his rest.”

“All right Jewel.” said Bill. “Excellent” said ‘Jewel’, slightly

exasperated, as the men scurried out of the room. “And for the last

‘Memories’

Continued on 16

16 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, December 14, 2012

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Offer valid until December 31, 2012. †Limit of one trade-in per customer. Cannot be combined with any other trade-in offer. In-store trade-in credits have no cash value, are non-transferable and can only be used when activating or renewing service at the TELUS store where the device was traded in and at the time of the trade-in. Only available at participating trade-in locations. TELUS and the TELUS logo are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. Samsung and Samsung Galaxy S III are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc. and/or its related entities used with permission. Screen images simulated. Google, the Google logo, Android and Gmail are trademarks of Google, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2012 TELUS.

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CommunityKent elementary students with their awards. From left, back row are Jim Johnson, RCL Br. 32 Youth Chairman,

Rianna Vander Wyk, Sierra Visser, Helaman Ochoa, Ashly Lowe, & Betty

Brewer, RCL Br. 32 Vice President.Front row - Nadia McNeil-Joseph, Simon Gries-Otto, Hailey Keating,

Katie Schram, & Lucia Wall. time, my name’s not Jewel! It’s Juliana!” she growled. Mental note, I

thought to myself, don’t call this lady Jewel.

“All right, how are you feeling John?” asked Juliana. “Excruciatingly pained” I muttered.

“Well, I’ll see what I can do about that” she replied. She lifted my left hand. A terrible pain erupted in my hand, radiating through my body like fire. “

AAAAAHHH!!!” I screamed. Surprisingly, this didn’t even faze her. She simply grabbed a bottle and commanded, “Drink this.”

With a shaking hand I grasped the bottle and muttering, “Bottoms up”, I took a swig.

“Yech” I said. Abruptly, my vision started to blur. Slowly but steadily, I slipped into unconsciousness’ dark shroud. 

I shuddered as I pulled myself back to reality, glancing at my left hand. Crumpled and useless, it lay there as a reminder of how horrible war is.

Taking my pen, I opened my journal to its final page. I took a deep breath. In the dim light of my lamp, I wrote:

I now write this to whoever reads this next. War is the most devastating thing that can happen to someone.

I advise you, young reader, to avoid war and do your best to promote peace and happiness to everyone. And now my story is complete... 

‘War is the most devastating thing’

From 15

q IN BRIEFAgassiz Christian

School is inviting the public to their Christmas musical, I Witness News:  Live from Bethlehem. 

The students will portray news reporters who encounter the sinister King Herod, run into all sort of trouble, and through the adventure come face-to-face with God’s humbling message of salvation. 

Performances will be at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., on Wednesday, Dec. 19, at Agassiz Christian School.