Erosion could cost $19M Mayor says no money to fix receding shoreline despite 2012 report warning that village infrastructure is at risk Volume 21 Issue 30 75 CENTS THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015 MADD mother ensures safe homecoming Social workers anticipate changes in April Premier McLeod optimistic for negotiations Sawing for tradition at Beavertail Jamboree Publication mail Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Jacinda Betsedea is all smiles as she participates in the sawing competition during the traditional games events on March 14. Contract #40012157 2 DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 community Getting jamboree-goers home safe Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Sharon Allen, left, and Laurie-Ann Lines were operating a drive-home service from the Beavertail Jamboree dances at the recreation complex on March 13 and 14 as part of Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Allen is one of the lone MADD representatives in the NWT, and this was the first time she had offered the ride service during the jamboree's busiest weekend. Sharon Allen runs first MADD campaign during Beavertail Jamboree weekend to prevent people from driving home drunk by Andrew Livingstone Northern News Services Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson Sharon Allen doesn't hold back when asking people if they've been drinking and driving. Seated at a table at the entrance to the recreation complex, party-goers enter the gymnasium for a night of live music and drinking as part of the 2015 Beavertail Jamboree. Whether they know Allen or not – and for the most part many do – she asks them if they need a ride home after the dance. It doesn't matter what time it is, she'll drive until sunrise if she has to if it means stopping even one person from getting behind the wheel intoxicated. And her presence in the village as a Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD) representative – the only one in the territory – doesn't go unnoticed. Residents shake her hand as they enter, donate money, ask for a ride home after and thank her for the work she's doing. Her desire to educate and stop drinking and driving shows through in her energy and infectious smile. Like many people involved in MADD, Sharon has been affected by the tragic outcomes of drunk driving. Her daughter, Keisha Trudel died on Nov. 23, 2008, at the age of 16 in Fort Smith after being thrown out of a rear passenger window of an SUV. The court was told the 16-year-old driver of the vehicle had been drinking prior to the accident. "This could happen to anyone," she said of the loss of her daughter, something she still struggles with today. "I know she'd be in university now and about to be graduating. It's been six years and it still hurts." It's the first year Allen has offered the MADD program during the jamboree festivities. She said the response from the community has been encouraging. Over the course of two nights of driving on March 13 and 14, she had a half-dozen drivers donate their time to help get people home safe after a night of partying. Laurie-Ann Lines said while there are other campaigns against drinking and driving in the territory, MADD has a different effect on people who encounter it. "It comes from parents who are affected by drunk driving and you see how it has an impact on them," she said. "You see their faces. Sharon's story is important for people to know and it's great what she is doing in the community." And a donation can set-up by a co-worker of Allen's at the elementary school helped raise nearly $240 to help cover the cost of the gas used by volunteers. Until the early morning hours both nights, Allen dispatched drivers – and herself – to drive residents home. Using Facebook as a point of contact for people who were looking for a drive, Allen has found a great tool to promote what she is doing and to help raise awareness and educate people of the simple solution of not driving while intoxicated. "A lot of people are saying they're so happy to see it and they support the cause and believe in it," she said. "I'm just hoping it will catch on in other communities because a lot of them don't have taxi services and other options to get home after a night of drinking." feature news DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 3 Did we get it wrong? Deh Cho Drum is committed to getting facts and names right. With that goes a commitment to acknowledge mistakes and run corrections. If you spot an error in Deh Cho Drum, call the editor at (867) 695-3786, or e-mail [email protected]. We’ll get a correction or clarification in as soon as we can. NEWS Briefs Pharmacy coming to village The North West Company, which operates the Northern store, plans to open a pharmacy in Fort Simpson later this year. The addition is part of the $150 million the company announced last month it plans to spend at its stores across the North over the next three years, creating 125 new permanent jobs. The village does not currently have a retail pharmacy. It isn't clear yet how many jobs will be created by adding the pharmacy in the village. The company posted an ad for a pharmacy manager position online in late January. Derek Reimer, director of business development, said more information about the plans will be released soon. Applications open for farming courses If you're interested in learning how to grow your own vegetables the Northern Farm Training Institute is now accepting applications for its summer workshops. Beginning in April the organization is offering six three-day workshops to help participants successfully grow their own produce. Some of the topics of the workshops include how to design and plant a sustainable garden, food forests North of 60, gardening and maintenance, and food harvest, preparation and storage. The courses run from the end of April to mid-September. Tools, supplies and learning materials will be provided. For more information please contact the institute. Health centre nearly ready The Dehcho Health and Social Services Authority plans to be moved into the new Fort Providence health centre the week of April 27. The $11 million facility replaces the hamlet's existing health centre which is more than 43 years old. Donna Allen, the authority's CEO, said furniture and equipment were moved in last month. The original completion date for the 6,800 square metre building, a third larger than the old health centre, was set for March 31. Work on the facility by the contractor is expected to be complete at the end of this month or in early April stated Allen in a March 12 e-mail. No official opening date was provided. Learn to tuft moose hair The Open Sky Gallery will be hosting a two-day Moose hair tufting workshop on Mar. 21 and 22. Space for the workshop is limited so those interested are asked to sign up as soon as possible. Shane Magee/NNSL photo The riverbank here along the Mackenzie River is moving closer and closer to the village's water treatment plant shown on the right. This stretch of Mackenzie Drive has been closed for several years because of the retreating riverbank. Erosion control could cost millions: study Receding shoreline threatening village infrastructure; no action since 2012 report revealed it would cost upwards of $19 million to fix problem by Shane Magee Northern News Services Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson Fort Simpson has no funding set aside to address ongoing riverbank erosion that could cost more than $19 million to fix or to repair potential damage it could cause to vital community infrastructure “There’s no reserves that we could use for addressing capital funding in the future,” said Mayor Sean Whelly March 13. “There is no money, I don’t know if there ever will be.” Whelly said the village only gets about $1 million per year for capital projects from GNWT or other sources. A stretch of more than 1,300 metres along the bank of the Mackenzie River has been retreating over the past few decades, with the shoreline inching closer to streets, homes and the community’s water treatment plant every year. Council was told this past fall it could cost millions to address the village landfill in coming years. A study commissioned in 2012 by a former senior administrative officer, which cost $75,000 according to the mayor, states tens of millions of dollars would be needed to address erosion. The Associated Engineers Ltd. study lays out three options to stabilize the bank estimated to cost between $19 and $31 million. The village has done nothing with the report since it was completed two years ago. “I don’t believe that report has been widely distributed. I don’t even believe the territorial government has been made aware of that report,” Whelly said, adding he did raise the erosion issue with the premier late last year. “I guess when we saw the numbers when they came in, I guess we thought there wouldn’t be any money to take remediation. “We keep hearing that the territorial government has no money. It just didn’t seem the right time (to bring it up).” Typically municipalities across the country contribute annually to reserve funds to have money on hand in the event that infrastructure such as arenas or water treatment plants have to be repaired or replaced. Fort Simpson has no such fund. Nehendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche said the territorial government doesn’t set aside money for shore erosion in communities, adding Fort Simpson isn’t the only community in need of financial support to protect its shoreline. “There is no programming at the GNWT to assist with shore erosion, there are many communities in the NWT that could use assistance, Nahanni Butte being another good example,” he stated in an e-mail. ‘The bank keeps eroding’ The threat posed by the retreating riverbank isn’t new. Long-time residents of the community recall a time when there were homes with yards on the river side of Mackenzie Drive. Those homes are now gone and the steep bank is up against the street. Over the years erosion has destabilized the foundations of a 500 metre section of the road near the water treatment plant, to the point that it has been closed to traffic for several years. Buildings considered close to the edge include the Northwest Territories Power Corporation generating station, the village’s water treatment plant and a pipe under Mackenzie Drive that brings raw water to the treatment plant. Whelly said several bad years of erosion, cutting away as little as five feet, could damage the road and expose that pipe, which would in turn cause a serious disruption to the water supply. He added that the community will need to decide in the next five years what to do with its treatment plant as it comes due for an upgrade or replacement. If the erosion continues the plant might have to be moved to another location. Coun. Tom Wilson, who previously served as village mayor, said successive councils have tried unsuccessfully to raise the erosion issue with the GNWT and the federal government. “How long do we have until we start losing major infrastructure in town because nothing has been done?” Wilson said. Riverbank erosion was one of the top issues Wilson and Coun. Bob Hannah pledged to address if elected in the 2012 municipal election. Wilson said very little has been done since then as priorities have shifted and senior staff has changed several times. “Basically as you can see nothing has happened. The bank keeps eroding,” Wilson said. “We have to keep in the forefront of the government’s mind. Mind you we also need a new health centre too. The government on any given year only has X amount of bucks to spend around.” Whelly also said other priorities for territorial funding have come up, but said council knows erosion is a problem. Three options There have been at least five studies carried out since the 1970s regarding the erosion issue according to the Associated Engineering Ltd. report completed in March 2013. The study concluded the village’s best option based on potential costs would be to install riprap – a term for large rocks piled together to form a rough wall. It is considered the easiest of the two options to install. Granite riprap installed in several phases starting at the downstream end of the island would cost an estimated $23.7 million. Limestone riprap, also installed in phases, would cost an estimated $19.5 million. A sheet pile wall, literally a wall of metal along the edge of the riverbank, is estimated to cost $31.5 million and would require specialized equipment. The study states more detailed geologic work is required to know if a sheet pile wall would be effective. There wasn’t enough information for the study authors to estimate how much the bank is retreating per year. However, Whelly and Wilson both said the pace has slowed recently. “But that could change,” Wilson said. - With files from Andrew Livingstone 4 DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 news Steady demand keeps social workers busy Changes coming next month to child welfare system by Shane Magee Northern News Services Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson Shane Magee/NNSL photo Shaun Ouellette, the social work supervisor for Dehcho Health and Social Services Authority, says there's a high demand for services in the region. Social workers in the Deh Cho are in high demand with cases involving child protection being the most frequent. Shaun Ouellette said there's always a need for the seven social workers. "It's a very steady work flow," said the Dehcho Health and Social Services Authority social work supervisor. That work increases when the authority is short-staffed. He said they are actively recruiting to fill vacancies. He's one of the newly hired staff members having moved North from Windsor, Ont. in November. March is national social work month and the authority wants to highlight the work that staff at the authority do and the services offered. "The goal is to have a trusting working relationship with the community," he said. Work days can include seeing children in care, filling out reams of paperwork and reviewing files. The authority covers several communities in the region so long days of travel to the smaller centres isn't uncommon. On the day of the interview, a social worker went with a child to Yellowknife for an appointment. In the territory, social workers must have a fouryear degree in social work and must register with the territory. The job largely deals with child protection. About 1,000 children across the territory receive care from social services. Ouellette declined to give a figure for just the Deh Cho. Ouellette said there's a slew of new standards of care and rules are coming to the child welfare system on April 1. The changes follow an auditor general report last year that found problems with the child protection system in the territory. That report showed about 69 per cent of foster homes in the cases reviewed weren't properly screened. As well, nearly a third of cases auditors examined showed child protection workers weren't following up on reports of children at risk. He said the changes will get everyone on the same page, providing a similar level of care across the territory. Other components of the job include helping adults, advocating for people and linking them to other services in the community. Advocating for someone could include making calls on someone's behalf or helping those who have low literacy levels. It could also mean helping someone fill out paperwork. Though there's been a long standing social stigma around seeking assistance from a social worker, Ouellette said they're trying to break that down. Reaching a social worker means dialing a phone. "We have someone on call 24/7," he said. "We have to follow through on every call we get. We're mandated to follow through." That's also the case in Fort Liard and Fort Providence. "There's always someone available," he said. Premier optimistic on Dehcho talks McLeod denies threatening to terminate the process by Shane Magee Northern News Services Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson Premier Bob McLeod says he remains optimistic Dehcho Process negotiations will continue. "I'm always optimistic," McLeod said March 13 about whether negotiations will prove successful. Asked whether the government had any more flexibility should the sides return to the table, he said "they've rejected everything we've offered." His comments to Deh Cho Drum came in the first interview he given on the topic since the rhetoric between the sides has ratcheted up. Dehcho First Nations Grand Chief Herb Norwegian has said he believes a mediator is needed to bridge the gap between the amount of land the GNWT has offered DFN and what it wants. Norwegian said in a March 4 news release DFN lead- ers rejected the government's latest land quantum offer of 37,500 square kilometres of surface land with a 17.78 per cent subsurface royalty share. He said DFN is seeking up to 50,000 square kilometres. The offer came out of bilateral talks between the GNWT and DFN. McLeod said the sides worked for more than two years to get to this point. In February, Norwegian accused the GNWT of bully- ing the DFN by trying to get it to accept the offer. Earlier this month he said the government has threatened to "terminate" the Dehcho Process. That's something McLeod said isn't true. The 2001 Dehcho Framework Agreement, which formed the basis of ongoing negotiations to reach an agreement in principle, allows for a mediator should the sides reach an impasse. "We've never been against facilitation," McLeod said. However, it's hard to consider it if there is talk of legal action, he said. The GNWT received a letter asking for mediation then another raising the spectre of legal action, he said. The GNWT is still awaiting a formal notification that its offer has been rejected, McLeod said. An April 6 deadline for a reply from DFN remains. After that, the bilateral agreement is done and McLeod said talks revert back to the main negotiating table. In the meantime, he said the government will "put (its) thinking hat on" to see if a way forward can be found. Norwegian has said that the GNWT considering mediation gives him a "gleam of hope" things can move ahead to finish the Dehcho Process. opinions DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 5 Where's the plan? Northern News Services Sure, things that need to be fixed right away should be covered The amount of money it could but that doesn't mean potential cost just to shore up the bank disasters should be swept under along the Mackenzie River in Fort the rug. Simpson is eye popping; between It's likely erosion won't pose $19.5 million and $31 million an immediate risk to village depending on the option picked. infrastructure for several or even What's much worse is the reamany years from now. However, son village Mayor Sean Whelly the erosion issue is just one part gave for why the community has of the fiscal puzzle that makes a shoved the report outlining those lack of a capital reserve costs in a drawer for the astounding. There's last two years. THE ISSUE: fund money that's going to be He said it just seemed CAPITAL spent in a few years to like bad timing to ask SPENDING clean up the dump and for money when the terthe water treatment plant ritorial government is cut- WE SAY: LEADERSHIP is due for work in about ting back its spending. It NEEDED five years, Whelly said. would likely be rejected, The recreation centre he said. But it's hard to isn't new and will likely know if you don't try. Even if funding didn't start flow- need either a renovation or rebuild at some point. ing for five or 10 years, if This all leaves us wonthe GNWT at least knew dering: where is the long about the problem it term plan? could be put on a priorKeeping up with the ity list to be balanced yearly capital costs and against other potential operations and maintenprojects, money could be ance isn't good enough. put aside over a period Leaders need to have of years in order to either some foresight and look shore up the river bank many years down the or to cover moving vital SHANE line to anticipate the infrastructure away from MAGEE needs of the community. the areas most at risk. Without a plan in place, Since the village future councils will face some hard hasn't gone to the GNWT to at choices. least get the ball rolling, surely it is saving up money to repair or relocate its water treatment plant or water intake line should erosion DO YOU THINK MEDIATION IS NEEDcontinue over the coming years. ED TO MOVE THE DEHCHO PROCESS Well, not exactly. Village leaders have been spending but not saving FORWARD? Yes, it would help break the impasse. in a capital reserve fund. That's what other municipalities use to save up for those rainy days 100% when they have to replace big No, they need to work it out by negotiatticket infrastructure. ing. "There is no money," the mayor said, citing a measly $1 million 0% transferred to the municipality from government coffers for capHAVE YOUR SAY ital spending each year that goes Are you concerned about the eroding riverto projects needing immediate bank in Fort Simpson? Go online to www. nnsl.com/dehcho to vote in this week's poll. attention. NNSL WEB POLL Published Thursdays 2014 PRICED TO SELL Trudy Nelner stands beside a table of items for sale during a fundraiser at the village rec centre on Feb. 26 to help send a village youth to the speedskating competition in Yellowknife. DEH CHO OFFICE: Editor: Shane Magee 9418-100 St. Fort Simpson, Box 435, NT, XOE ONO Phone: (867) 695-DRUM(3786) Fax: (867) 695-3766 Toll free: (855) 873-6675 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.nnsl.com/dehcho Also read in Fort Liard • Fort Providence • Fort Simpson Jean Marie River • Nahanni Butte • Trout Lake Wrigley• Kakisa and occasionally Lynx River NORTHERN NEWS SERVICES LIMITED 100% Northern owned and operated Publishers of: Deh Cho Drum • Inuvik Drum • Kivalliq News Yellowknifer • NWT News/North • Nunavut News/North Hay River Hub Member of: Canadian Community Newspapers Association Alberta Press Council Shane Magee/NNSL photo PUBLISHER: J.W. 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Whether it was friendly competition in the snowshoe race or in the hockey arena where intense four-on-four hockey was played, jamboreegoers were there cheering on their friends, neighbours and even complete strangers as they sawed, sang and skated. If laughter and life-long memories could be bottled up and used to power the village, it would never run out of energy. The positive vibe of the jamboree infected residents and even those who happened upon an event by chance were drawn in by the sense of community the jamboree brought out in people. Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Ria Letcher, left, and Cathie Simms were hard at work on March 15 frying fish, making bannock and prepping fresh cut potatoes for the fish fry at the recreation centre as part of the jamboree's final day of festivities. Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Four-year-old Joseph Michaud was brimming with excitement in anticipation of his first ever snowmobile race as part of the Beavertail Jamboree on March 14. Shane Magee/NNSL photo Michael Cazon, right, takes part in a drum dance in the Fort Simpson rec centre on March 12. Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Jacinda Betsedea is all smiles as she participates in the sawing competition during the traditional games events on March 14. Thor Amundson, left, begins to spill 10 feet from the finish line as Chris Stipdonk passes him to win the men's snowshoe race during the Beavertail Jamboree on March 14. Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Dennis Thompson plays the fiddle with Roger West, who was in town for a two-night performance, during the adult talent show at the Beavertail Jamboree on March 14. Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Andrew Livingstone/NNSL photo Melaw Nakehk'o hit the moose dead-on during the spearthrowing competition on March 14. Her first throw went well-over the target and onto the road,but she nailed the moose on her second attempt. Shane Magee/NNSL photo Kate Moses, left, and Earl Moses were among the hundreds that lined up for the feast on March 12 as part of the Beavertail Jamboree in Fort Simpson. Shane Magee/NNSL photo Community members take part in a drum dance circle after the opening ceremony of the Beavertail Jamboree on March 12 in Fort Simpson. Taggacho Jose, 4, sings a crowd-pleasing song about the seven days of the week during the youth talent show at Bompas School on March 13 as part of the Beavertail Jamboree. 8 DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 news DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 9 Three tax assessment complaints Northern News Services A board of revision will determine whether the current property tax assessments of three property owners in the village were correct. According to acting senior administrative officer McWade, three complaints were filed over the tax assessments down by the territorial government on properties within village limits. McWade said an assessor will be coming to town in April to sit on a board of revision with a council representative and a chosen representative from the community. The three complainants can come and present their case to the board and hear from the assessor why the assessment was determined the way it was. Once the village is able to set a date – the assessor wasn't cleared to travel by the territorial government until April at the earliest – the village has to give 21 days notice by law. McWade said the three complaints are about ownership and lot sizes. Payment plan for ambulance bill approved A request to forgive $360 in interest accrued on a previously unpaid ambulance bill was voted down by village council in favour of pursuing a payment plan option. Eric and Paschalina Nadli requested the town write-off service charges stemming from an ambulance bill that went unpaid for over a year and a half. The couple were in a motor vehicle accident that led to thousands of dollars in emergency vehicle use, including a $6,362 bill for the use of a helicopter for medical transport. "Our motor vehicle accident left us without income for a very long time as we were unable to work," Paschalina Nadli wrote in a letter to council. "We are finally getting back on our feet, so the services fees the village is trying to collect is money we won't have." While council was sympathetic to the situation the couple faces, acting senior administrative officer Forrest McWade said it would set a bad precedent if the village decided to waive the outstanding balance of the bill, which was paid recently. "I do think we need to recognize why we do charge interest on any payment like any other corporation," he said. "I think if we start doing this we're going to get a lot of letters and people coming in. It's important we follow our policies and procedures." Council voted to work out a payment plan and are looking at freezing the interest where it is so it doesn't continue to mount. Process begins to put lots up for sale VILLAGE COUNCIL Six lots currently with tax arrears exceeding $10,000 will go up for auction in late June if the outstanding taxes owing aren't paid. Four of the six properties are owned by Leo Cordero and Betty Lee and have outstanding tax bills in the vicinity of $65,000, according to town documents. If the outstanding balances on the six properties aren't paid in full by June 19, the properties will be auctioned off at 50 per cent of the current assessment value, which could bring in approximately $263,000 in revenue for the town. Current owners have 30 days after the auction ends and a winning bidder is chosen to pay their tax bills, or lose the properties. Office construction approved Town council unanimously approved a development application from Nogha Enterprises to build a new office building on 100 Street. Designed by Edmonton-based David Wong Architect Ltd., the two-storey building will briefs with Andrew Livingstone have 18,457 sq. ft., of leaseable space and will have 44 parking stalls, two spaces designated wheelchair and disability accessible. Reviewed by Stephen Cudmore, the town's bylaw enforcement officer, the application met all requirements for approval. Lighting on the outside meets standards as to not interfere with traffic control devices and won't shine onto neighbouring properties. The parking lot entrance will be located on 100 Avenue behind the building from the side. Cudmore wrote in his report to council that he felt it was a good location as there isn't much traffic on 100 ave., and would eliminate potential congestion issues on 100 Street. Nogha Enterprises is expected to begin construction next month with an estimated completion date of Jan. 14, 2016 at a cost of approximately $10 million. Mushers race for $10,000 in prizes Northern News Services Deh Gah Got'ie Koe/Fort Providence Deh Gah Dog Mushers Club will host the 2015 Dehcho Sled dog championships on March 27 and 28. The two-day competition coincides with the Bison Jamboree events and will begin at the Snowshoe Inn at 1 p.m. The championship with consist of 10-dog and six-dog classes and the purse for the entire event is $10,000. "Spectators can watch the entire race as the tracks are along the Fort Providence access road and go about 10 km north along Highway 3," co-organizer Susan Fleck stated in an e-mail. Mushers are expected from the NWT, northern B.C., Alberta and Minnesota with a total of 200 dogs expected to be involved. Mushers meeting is at 7 p.m. on March 26 at the Snowshoe Cafe and awards will be doled out on Saturday evening at the Snowshoe Lounge where everyone can dance away to the sounds of Bobby Bouvier and the Boys. The club is also tentatively planning to have a fun race on April 4 that will include a one-dog race for kids and sponsors three-dog race. Snowboarding students take Jasper by storm Pehdzeh Ki/Wrigley Six students from Chief Julian Yendo School spent nine days carving the slopes of Jasper National Park's mountains while taking in an Edmonton Oilers hockey game during a snowboard trip to Alberta earlier this month. From Feb. 25 to March 5 students spent the trip snowboarding, hiking and swimming, among other things, said school principal Blair Sellars. "We incorporate a lot of swimming into the trip and we stay at hotels that have pools and we stay at the Jasper Activity Centre in Jasper," he said. "We're promoting healthy, active lifestyles with physical activity as one of the main objectives, but as well as providing positive social activities for the children and positive social engagement." Sellars said the students were also treated to an Imax 3-D movie on butterflies at the Telus World of Sciences Centre in Edmonton where they spent the day taking in the exhibits on display. Hiking and visited the Space Sciences Centre and watched a doc on butterflies in 3-D. The students also attended an Edmonton Oilers hockey game against the reigning Stanley Cup champions Los Angeles Kings at Rexall Place. "The kids really enjoyed it," said Sellars. "The game was really entertaining, even though the Oilers didn't win." Mudball Carnival committee to meet Tthek'ehdeli/Jean Marie River The Mudball Carnival committee should have confirmed dates for the annual festivities by early next week, said committee member Gail Sanguez. Representatives from the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment are in town on March 19 for an information session on the Morel mushroom opportunities this year. The meeting will be held in the gymnasium. Chief Gladys Norwegian and Marilyn Haridsty were in Hay River from March 17 to March 19 for a tourism workshop in Hay River. A number of birthdays are being celebrated in the community over the next week. Gerald Norwegian has a birthday on Mar. 18, Stan Sanguez on the March 19, Billy Norwegian on March 20, Alicia Grossetete on March 24 and Keegan Menacho on March 26. Easter baptism in the works COMMUNITY Clips with Shane Magee [email protected] Pheobe Betsaka (March 9), Maurice Vital (March 10) and Helen Ekotla (March 18). Birthday wishes go out to William Isaiah-Marcellais (March 22), Priscilla Betsaka (March 23) and Sharon Konisenta (March 24). The community also has two elders who are off to Trout Lake from March 23 to 27 for a harvesters meeting. Acho Dene Koe/Fort Liard Residents looking to have their children baptized over the Easter holiday can arrange a time by contacting Janna Deneron. The baptism is planned for Apr. 12 with preparation beginning this weekend with Father Joe Daley of Saint Raphael's Mission. There are at least 10 people currently on the list to be baptized. Bison Jamboree next week Deh Gah Got'ie Koe/Fort Providence The Deh Cho Bison Jamboree dates have been set for March 25 to 29 and hamlet staff are working to finalize the schedule of events for the five-day event. Hamlet recreation coordinator Andre Bolduc said he is in the process of preparing a poster and finalize list of events and hopes to have it done by the end of this week. Birthdays abound in Nahanni Butte Tthenaago/Nahanni Butte March is a month of birthdays in Nahanni Butte as 10 people have had or are having birthdays this month. Bulated birthday wishes go out to Jolene Betsaka and Leanna Vital (March 4), James Tonka (March 7), Mindy Tsetso and photo courtesy of Blair Sellars WRIGLEY STUDENTS HIT THE SLOPES Grade 8 student Kayden Antoine is all smiles as he puts on his snowboard during a trip to Jasper from Feb. 25 to Mar. 5 with Chief Julian Yendo School. alternatives 10 DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 STREET talk What's your favourite part of the Beavertail Jamboree? with Shane Magee [email protected] Akesha Hardisty "The drum dances." Kristen Tanche "The Friday afternoon games and the corporate challenge." Kathy Mouse "Drum dances and getting together with friends and family." Josanne Tanche "The talent show." Horoscopes March 19 to 26 ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 A debate forces you to reconsider some long-held opinions. Use this time to reflect on your point of view and if there is anything you might want to change. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Life gets better and better as the week goes on, Taurus. Expect a few obstacles, but remember there's nothing you cannot tackle, especially when you get some help. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 A situation arises at work that evokes strong emotions among your coworkers. Stay neutral on the issue until you have had enough time to gather more information. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 A recently started relationship is going great, Cancer. Now might be a great time to take the next step with your special someone. Expect this person to share your feelings. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 A rush of adrenaline this week will help you sail through any projects that need completion, Leo. Take a break every now and then so you don't burn out. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you and a superior at work are seeing eye-to-eye this week. This could mark the beginnings of a great partnership, so continue to work hard. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, you will sort out a complex problem in due time. Don't let any initial struggles to find a solution keep you down. Continue to focus on the bigger picture. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, use this week to address an unresolved issue. Tackle every project thrown your way head-on and with vigor. Others will notice your efforts. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, try not to over-think things this week. Sometimes the simplest solution to a problem is the best solution. Keep this in mind at the office. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, a distraction this week proves so fascinating that you neglect other responsibilities. While you may like a challenge, don't let it consume your life. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 You yearn for privacy this week, Aquarius. Make the most of any opportunity to seek out a quiet corner and spend some time deep in reflection and thought. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Chores are completely unappealing this week, Pisces. But they must get done one way or another. Delegate some tasks. Hannah Kotchea "The food." Gracyn Tanche "The traditional games." Student of the week CADENCE ERASMUS Age: 9 Parents: Fawna Erasmus and Kirk Loman School: Bompas Elementary School Teacher's remarks: "Cadence did very well in school this term, she worked very hard and was focused," said Class 4 teacher Doris PellisseyBruneau. "She made a big improvement." Favourite subject: Art and math are her favourites because, she said, she likes drawing. Book of choice: The Adventures of Captain Underpants. Favourite food: Pasta. Hobbies and pastimes: Sleeping over at her friends' homes and going sliding with her friends. Career aspirations: To become a dancer and singer. Stuck with boyfriend after car accident DIRECT Answers Lost girl here. I'm 23 turning 24. I've been dating my boyfriend eight years. He's my first, of course. We were head over heels from the start, but five years ago we had a horrific car accident. I was driving. My boyfriend broke his neck and collarbone and had horrible things like burns. The accident happened on his birthday. His best friend was with us and he broke his back and some ribs. I was 18, just out of high school, one month into my freshman year of college. I took care of my boyfriend despite issues in his family life. I loved him and tried to balance going to school Monday through Thursday with working Friday through Sunday. We had a hell of a time going through his healing but eventually we got some money in a settlement. So we got our own place. We fought. I was enraged with anger at my life. I fell hard for his friend, the one in the wreck with us, but my boyfriend found out. Well, he kept me, though I continued to talk to his ex-best friend who had other girlfriends. Long story short, I am miserable. My boyfriend never changed for the better. He's had a good job for over a year, but he never finished high school. I never finished college because of our constant fights. He never shows compassion or affection, and I've always had his friend on my mind, although he has a girlfriend now. [email protected] with Wayne & Tamara Mitchell I know I should leave my boyfriend because he doesn't satisfy me, but how? We have grown up together. We have a house and everything. It's practically a divorce without the papers and children, thank God! Giselle Giselle, in a famed poem by Coleridge, an ancient mariner wears a dead albatross around his neck as a legacy of his past. By the poem's end, however, the weight of the past and the albatross fall from the sailor's neck and sink "like lead into the sea." You also are carrying an albatross around your neck, the albatross of the wreck. Your boyfriend blames you for the accident, and you blame yourself. You were driving a car that gravely injured two men. How much of your connection to these two is based on time and guilt? Your boyfriend is wrong for you. You'd like to be with his best friend, but he is unavailable. Rarely do people have a chance to start over in life. But you do. You are a free young woman, or at least you can be. Wayne & Tamara Can't get longtime boyfriend to commit to marriage I have been dating a man four years. I am 53 and he is 56. I divorced six years ago and he was a friend before my marriage. For the last four years we've only dated each other. Many times he's told me he loves me, but I feel we are not moving past boyfriend and girlfriend. We don't live together because he says he is not ready for that. When we are together, I go to his house. He almost never comes to mine. I asked if he ever wants to marry me and he says yes, but he doesn't know when. Why is this not moving toward living together or marriage? Should I continue down this path or move on? Debbie Debbie, you are climbing up the down escalator. You will never get to the top. Stop climbing. Find a man who wants to go in your direction. Wayne & Tamara If you have any questions or comments for Wayne or Tamara, please forward e-mail to [email protected] or write to Wayne & Tamara Mitchell, Station A, Box 2820, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2R1 sports & recreation DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 11 Shane Magee/NNSL photo PUCK PURSUIT Brendan Tsetso moves the puck down the ice at the Fort Simpson rec centre during a Beavertail Cup tournament game on March 12. Volleyball tournament a go Six teams currently committed to three-day event being held in Fort Providence in April by Andrew Livingstone position was vacant during the winter months – Bolduc, Deh Gah Got'ie Koe/ who has been in the job for Fort Providence almost two months, said he Volleyball enthusiasts will was approached by Charlene descend on Fort Providence Bonnetrouge to organize a in mid-April with the hopes tournament. of spiking and volleying their "It's the first time in a while way to bragging rights. and Charlene came to me and The adult co-ed tourna- said she wanted to organize ment is expected to draw play- one so I decided to jump on ers and teams the opportunity," from across the said Bolduc. Deh Cho region "She hosts volfor the tournaleyball every ment scheduled Wednesday and to take place said they hadn't April 24 to 26 had a tournain the Deh Gah ment in years School gymnasiand it would um, said hamlet be nice to have recreation cosomething like Andre Bolduc ordinator Andre this going on. Bolduc. There isn't much Without a recreation co- going on in the community and ordinator in the community some people can't get away on for a number of years – the the weekends so it's something hamlet hired someone for people can get into. the last two summers but the "They're not a travelling Northern News Services "Little tournaments like this are good preparation." team and just play in the gym every week so it'll be a chance to play competitively." Bolduc said six teams have registered and he's hoping they'll be able to get a few more to fill up the weekend schedule. Currently, one team from Fort Providence has registered while Behchoko will be sending a four-team contingent and Yellowknife will be sending one team. Bolduc said a plan is in the works to get two teams from Dettah registered as well. The opportunities for players to meet others who love the sport and to play in a competitive atmosphere will hopefully ignite some more interest in the sport from new players and those looking to improve their game. "It's good to have outside players coming in to see the community and connect with people," Bolduc said. "Having activities for people to get together and just spend time together it's a great thing. You're spending three whole days and if you're not playing, you're watching the other teams and meeting the players and making new friends." Bolduc said the chance for some of the more skilled players to connect with teams and players from other communi- ties opens doors to the possibility of travelling with another team to bigger tournaments. "It's also just good practice for teams that do go to bigger tournaments," he said. "Little tournaments like this are good preparation and it's a lot of good fun." Each team must have at minimum six players, with two female players per team and can max out at 10 players. Bolduc said they will accept the first ten teams who register and pay the fee in order to participate. For insurance purposes, players are required to be registered members of NWT Volleyball prior to the start of the tournament. SPORTS CARD SOCCER AGE: 7 Tyler has played soccer since he was five years old and says he enjoys it because he likes winning. TYLER TSETSO 12 DEH CHO DRUM, Thursday, March 19, 2015 online at DEH CHO MARKETPLACE www.nnsl.com! NWT ADVERTISING HOTLINE • PHONE: (867) 695-3786 OR (867) 873-WORD(9673) • FAX: (867) 695-3766 Check out the NNSL “Job Bank” NNSL WORD CLASSIFIEDS NOW RUN IN 5 NWT PAPERS Deh Cho Drum • Inuvik Drum • NWT News/North • Yellowknifer • Weekender • PLUS NNSL classifieds online: www.nnsl.com Book your classified online or email to: classifi[email protected] 20•Announcements 140•Misc. For Sale 160•Bus. Services &2//(&725 &$5 $XFWLRQ WK$QQXDO(GPRQWRQ0RWRU 6KRZ &ROOHFWRU &DU $XFWLRQ $SULO(GPRQWRQ([SR &HQWUH2YHUVSHFWDW RUV2YHUVROGODVW\HDU &RQVLJQ WRGD\ H[W7JTJU (*DXFWLRQVFRP 0(7$/522),1*6LGLQJ FRORXUVDYDLODEOHDWRYHU 'LVWULEXWRUV\HDUZDU UDQW\ KRXU ([SUHVV 6HU YLFH DYDLODEOH DW VHOHFW VXS SRUWLQJ 'LVWULEXWRUV &DOO *(7 %$&. 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For Sale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cords, minimum order at $315.00 per cord. Please call 1 (867) 874-2746 for further information. :$17('+$11$66HHGV VHHNLQJ GLVWULEXWRUV IRU IRU DJHWXUIQDWLYHDQGUHFODPD WLRQ VHHG *RRG FRPPLV VLRQV &RQWDFW (VWKHU DW RU YLVLW HVWKHU#KDQQDVVHHGVFRP 160•Bus. 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Check Marketplace! [email protected] www.nnsl.com 35,&(5('8&('WRVHOO 67$QQ V6WUHHW)RUW6PLWK 173ULFHEHG URRPV2SHQFRQFHSWOLYLQJ DUHD Volunteers Wanted Donate your time and energy to community non-profit organizations. &ODVVLÀHGDGVUXQ 12&+$5*(RQOLQH Visit: ZZZQQVOFRP Whatsit? Markina Norwegian was the winner for the February 26th Whatsit. It was a pizza cutter. Guess Whatsit this week and you could WIN a prize! Meeting? Something for sale? Book a space this size for One Bathroom Fort Liard RCMP 770-1111 Medical 770-4301 Fire 770-2222 Ph: (867) 873-9673 7+(',6$%,/,7<7D[&UHGLW \HDUO\ WD[ FUHGLW OXPSVXPUHIXQGRQ DYHUDJH&RYHUVKLSNQHHUH SODFHPHQWVEDFNFRQGLWLRQV UHVWULFWLRQVLQZDONLQJDQG GUHVVLQJ +,*+&$6+3URGXFLQJYHQG LQJ PDFKLQHV YHQG SURILW $OO RQ ORFDWLRQ LQ \RXUDUHD 6HOOLQJ GXH WR LOO QHVV&DOOIRU GHWDLOV Four Kids, Three Bedrooms, Five School Days EMERGENCY NUMBERS $ 20 Phone: (867) 873-9673 or email: [email protected] Selling a boat, bike, bed, car, computer, house... anything! Place it in the classifieds free! NO CHARGE for the first 25 words on any personal classified - additional words 10 cents each Drop off your advertisement at our Fort Simpson office; mail it to: Box 2820 Yellowknife, NT X1A 2R1; e-mail: [email protected]; fax: (867) 873-8507; or phone: (867) 873-4031, toll free: 1-855-873-6675. Commercial (business) Classifieds $10 (includes GST) SUPER SPECIAL! Advt this size (1.5 inches on 2 columns) $20 plus GST Really stands out! Ideal for meeting announcements, selling a house or car. Birthday • Wedding Engagement • Anniversary or Obituary Announcements: 1 9/16” x 4” deep $20 +GST 3 5/16” x 4” deep $40 +GST No extra charge for artwork or supplied photos. We accept Visa, MasterCard, money orders, cheque and cash. VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY: www.nnsl.com Entries must be received within 10 days of this publication date: E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (867) 695-3766, or drop them off at the Drum Office in Ft. Simpson, or by mail: WHATSIT, Deh Cho Drum, Box 435, Ft. Simpson, NT X0E 0N0 (No phone calls please) The following information is required: My guess is ____________________________________ Name_________________________________________ Daytime phone no. ______________________________ Mailing address ________________________________ _____________________________________________ Name & date of publication _______________________ Fort Simpson 03/19/15
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