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0YEARS ANS As part of the NWT Arts Council 30th Anniversary celebrations the Council is hosting an Exhibit and Showcase of artists from across the NWT. Visual Artist Showcase Explorer Hotel Kat Room A Wednesday November 11 1200pm - 430pm Thursday November 12 1000am - 400pm Come meet artists from each region and see them demonstrate their craft. Artists will have artwork on hand for sale as well just in time for the holidays 30th Anniversary Exhibit Opening Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre Thursday November 12 500pm - 700pm Join us at the museum to enjoy the work of over 200 NWT artists in audio recording performing arts writing and publishing visual arts and crafts and film and media arts. The Council is pleased to celebrate the talents passions and commitments of our artists that contribute to building vibrant communities across the NWT. performing arts writing and publishing visual arts and crafts and film and media arts. The Council is pleased to celebrate the talents passions and commitments of our artists that contribute to building vibrant communities across the NWT. Three-way battle for MLA hopefuls in Fort Smith The debate held for Thebacha candidates was a relatively solemn affair but not with- out reworks. See page 2. Fort Simpsons freshest sh story All Shelley Empey wanted was a modest permaculture operation with a couple of goats and chickens. Now shes growing the freshest tilapia North of 60. See page 24. 30 YEARS OF EXPRESSION The NWT Arts Council is celebrating. See page 2. Signicant award for indspiring teacher Liz Aapack Fowler has been recognized for her largely behind-the-scenes work on language in the North. See page 6. Graphic novelist shares ramshackle journey to NWT Alison McCreesh shares her animated version of the age- oldtaleofvisitingtheNWTfor a summer and never leaving. See page 6. V IS IT W W W .N O R J.C A A national award winning independent newspaper serving northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories since 1977 1.00 November 18 2015 Vol. 39 No. 29 By CRAIG GILBERT The agship biomass project that has been orbiting Enterprise nally has a place to land. The four-year mission to nd a placetoproduceasmuchas120000 tonnes of wood pellets per year will nally reach a signicant mile- stone on Nov. 27 when the Hamlet of Enterprise plans to formally sign over 320 hectares of land to Aurora Wood Pellets Ltd. AWP. The hamlet and the company came to an agreement on the sale in late October. Its a big move for Enterprise Mayor John Leskiw II said. We - nallygotalltheifsandsandbutsand wiggle stuff worked out. Im looking forwardto nallygettingthisdone. The property being sold to the company was Commissioners land transferred by the Northwest Terri- tories and didnt become the prop- erty of the hamlet until September. Im really pleased at the progress weve made in two or three months Leskiw said adding he is already focused on nalizing another land transferforresidentialdevelopment. Ifpeoplewantedtoworkatthewood pellet plant and wanted to live out here there would be very little land available. My next big push is to get some residential land going then commercial land. Leskiw said the transfer is in progress but the hamlet hasnt re- ceived title to the property. It is an important detail for a community of about 120 people. the workforce will come from Hay River but Enterprise is preparing for a population surge. Ive lived in Enterprise for 10 years Leskiw said. When my son and I moved up here we were the 94th and 95th people in town and now were up to about 120. If we get 20 people who move here thats 15-16 per cent growth. The inuence their search for a new senior administrative ofcer. En- terprise is just one of a number of Northwest Territories communities looking for an SAO. They include Hay River which needs to ll the SAO director of nance and direc- tor of public works positions in its own administration. Its totally new to us and it is a major learning process but were managing to muddle through it with help from Dillon and anybody else who will talk to us Leskiw said. We should be able to get through it. Over the years weve never had an official process for hiring an SAO. Were using this hiring time to develop and for- malize the process. Previously it was almost like picking a name out of a hat. We didnt know what we were looking for and what the expectations of them were. Based on the fact that weve got all the land transfers going on someone with purchase of land experience economic development with the new world were entering would be a major benefit. See Mill on page 10. Brad Mapes mayor of Hay River andpresidentofAWPhasestimated the plant could employ between 50 and 70 people on-site and dozens more on the road and seasonally in the bush. Construction is set for next summer with production start- ing in mid-2017. Mapes told the Journal he be- lieves as many as 85 per cent of time it takes to build the pellet plant should allow us time to nal- ize everything and prepare for the increase in population. More pellets more problems Managing growth is a different problem for the hamlets mayor and council to have one that may Enterprise eyes expansion with pellet mill land deal signing on horizon Im looking forward to finally getting this done. Enterprise Mayor John Leskiw II Sheila Anderson of Yellowknife is the rst National Memorial Silver Cross Mother from the Northwest Territories. She was selected by the Royal Canadian Legion to take part in the Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa on Nov. 11. See story page 9. PhotocourtesyoftheRoyalCanadianLegion 2 Wednesday November 18 2015 POLITICS TERRITORIAL ELECTION NEWS BRIEFS Gwichin Tribal Council hands out annual payment hamper The Gwichin Tribal Council GTC Board of Directors met Nov. 12 to decide on the annual Participant Distribution payment for the 2015 scal year. Payments totaling 371 per participant will be distributed along with a family- based Christmas hamper beginning on Dec. 8 a total of 1.181 million over 814 households. The GTC would also like to remind participants particularly at this time of year to conrm that their mailing address is current with the enrolment ofcer Cheryl Wright who can be reached toll-free at 1-866-414-4670 or at cherylwgwichin.nt.ca. Thirty years of art in the NWT The NWT Arts Council has launched their 30th Anniver- sary Exhibit showcasing over 200 previous Arts Council recipients.The NWTArts Council was established in 1985 as an advisory board to the Government of the Northwest TerritoriesGNWTtosupportandpromotetheartsinthe NorthwestTerritories.Over8millioninfundinghasbeen providedtomorethan1000individualsandorganizations over the last 30 years. The exhibit includes a digital com- ponent music lm photos and writing samples that will be showcased in communities across the territory. Along withthetravelingdigitalexhibittheNWTArtsCouncilwill sponsor a series of events in Yellowknife and throughout theNWT.Visitwww.nwtartscouncil.caorwww.pwnhc.ca. Artist collective wins global award aRTLeSS Collective has won top awards for Youre Not Alone a music video PSA made with the GNWTs Depart- ment of Health and Social Services in the annual MAR- COM Awards. With over 6500 entries from around the world The MARCOM Awards are presented by the Asso- ciation of Marketing and Communication Professionals. 20 OFF ENTIRE STORE OUTERWEARFOOTWEARFASHIONS 867-874-3037email salesglworkwear.com Located in Downtown Hay River 106-62 Woodland Drive MIDNIGHT MADNESS EVENT NOV. 20 OPEN 10 am - 11 pm Some restrictions apply By DALI CARMICHAEL The Thebacha riding may be drawing attention for its battle of the sexegenarians but the candidates certainly addressed issues impacting all age groups at a forum held at the high school in Fort Smith on Nov. 12. From a lack of daycare available to young families in the community to low en- rolment rates at Aurora Col- lege to the implementation of better services for the aging population candidates Mi- chael Miltenberger Lou Se- bert and Don Jaque tackled a wide-spread range of issues over the two-hour debate. Don Jaque EditorsnoteDonJaqueisthe owner and publisher of this newspaper and its precur- sor the Slave River Journal. Jaque has operated as a journalist and small business owner within Fort Smith for the last four decades during which time he has investi- gated and editorialized about issues impacting not just his home community but the North in general. Thebacha MLA candidates spar on daycare college energy In his platform Jaque pri- oritizes the economic devel- opment and diversication of Fort Smith. He promoted es- tablishingdaycarecentresim- provingAboriginalHeadStart programmingandconsulting with the community regard- ing junior kindergarten pro- viding child care solutions to young families already in the town and to encourage en- rolment at Aurora College for those young families coming from outside regions. He ex- pressed a strong desire to ll classroomsonceagainbring- ing more business to Smith. Jaque repeatedly said he wantedtorepairafragmented communityandbringpeople togetherto address the issues impacting them like the po- tentialslidezoneontherivers edge of town. When asked about helping seniorsliveintheirownhomes and communities Jaque re- calledSmithshistoryasanex- cellentretirementcommunity and noted that in order to re- tainthattitlehesaidthelocal organizations would need to keep up with technology and best practices. Headvocatedfortheneedto hunker down scally given an incoming climate of eco- nomic shrinkage forecasted for the entire territory. To weather the potential storm Jaque said he would strive to improved business relations withHayRiverwhileadvocat- ingforaccesstoexcessenergy from the Taltson dam. Lets x this stupid thing where NUL Northland Utili- tieswhichprovidesthepower to Hay River and Yellowknife buys the power from the Northwest Territories who is the wholesaler but theyre also the retailer Jaque said. I mean its just a mess and we need to x it. Lou Sebert LouSebertistheownerand proprietorofhisownlawprac- tice in addition to teaching a numberofdifferentsubjectsat Aurora College for the last 30 years. He has held a spot on Fort Smiths town council for the last 14 years acting as the deputymayorforthelastthree. Referencing a multitude of recentstudiesashepresented hispositionsSebertcalledfor a more open and transpar- ent government system. He pointed to a pamphlet from hisrunforMLA24yearsago when he originally called for the establishment of an om- budsmans ofce at the legis- lature an issue that remains a priority for him today. Ive been going around town giving out my platform but Ive been listening to the voters also and there are cer- tainly current concerns the rst of those really is govern- ment he said. We live in a town where the government is an overwhelming presence both as an employer and a contractor. I suggest a more transparent and open gov- ernment is required. Ever the academic Sebert called for Aurora College to strengthen and diversify its programming. He addressed rumours about the possibil- ity of establishing a northern university and claimed that givenitshistoryastheeduca- tioncapitaloftheNWTFort Smithshouldbethehostofany futurepost-secondaryfacility. The best universities in the world are not built in centres of nancial and po- litical power he implied listing Harvard Cambridge and Oxford as examples. Sebert said he would sup- port the expansion of seniors assistance programming as well as nancial incentives like grants for home upkeep andtaxreliefsinordertohelp seniors age in-place. He also addressed addic- tions treatments in the NWT calling for a treatment centre in the North. Given the avail- ability of resources located in Smith he advocated for a centre to be opened in the town if possible. Michael Miltenberger Acareerpoliticianfollowing previousexperienceasajour- neymancarpenterandGNWT bureaucrat incumbent MLA MichaelMiltenbergerhasbeen inthelegislatureforthelast20 years 14 of which he has sat incabinetasahealthnance and environment minister. Previous to that he also held rolesonthemunicipallevelas a town mayor and councillor. Now its time to focus on building the NWT which should be and will be a hope- fulandexcitingtimehesaid praisingthe17thAssemblyfor its accomplishments. There are many challenges oppor- tunities locally territorially andnationally.Whenitcomes to consensus government where theres no parties and picking the MLA is key ex- perience counts. With front-row seats to the economicrealitiesoftheNWT astheministerofnanceMilt- enberger was highly support- ive of developing projects to cut down on the cost of living bycreatingconditionsforeco- nomic development. He touted his role signing transboundarywatermanage- mentagreementswithAlberta and British Columbia noting thatnewagreementsthatgive theterritoryinputonthedevel- opmentofnewprojectsandthe protection of water resources were on the way. While he agreed with his colleague that Aurora College could use a boost to ll class- roomsandenticestudentshe saidheisloathetolookatthe resourcesincludingthebricks andmortarneededtocreatea universityintheNWT.Instead he advocated for more online resourcesandformoresupport forDechintatheterritoryson- the-land university. Ontheotherendofthepop- ulationdemographicsMilten- bergersaidhelikedwhathesaw intermsofsupportforseniors inthecommunitystatingthat Fort Smith should continue doingwhatwevebeendoing andensureexistingprograms and supports stay in place. Fort Smith has an enor- mous opportunity to be a bedroom community Milt- enberger said however he identied a need for more in- vestment in housing. He also called for dedicated funds to facilitate high-end tourism. When asked about his pri- orities for the community Miltenberger put a strong focusonhealthnotingthatby cuttingoutsmokingdrinking and eating badly and getting moving the population could work together to eliminate health care costs and spend those dollars elsewhere. Thebacha MLA candidates Don Jaque Michael Miltenberger and Louis Sebert locked horns in Fort Smith on Nov. 12. PhotosCraigGilbert Wednesday November 18 2015 3 POLITICS TERRITORIAL ELECTION SPECIALS ALL EVENING LONG 4 Courtoreille St. Hay River 867 874-4747 RINGS PHARMACY LTD. 6 Courtoreille Street Hay River 867 874-6744RINGS PHARMACY Friday November 20 700 pm 1100 pm Closed from 600 pm 700 pm. The pharmacy department is also closed after 600 pm. Friday November 20 700 pm 1100 pm Closed from 600 pm 700 pm. The pharmacy department is also closed after 600 pm. CELEBRATING MIDNIGHT MADNESS CELEBRATING MIDNIGHT MADNESS By CRAIG GILBERT The Union of Northern Workers UNW targeted the spectre of austerity measures at the GNWT with a pre-election survey that has stirred up controversy in the home stretch to the Nov. 23 vote. President Todd Parsons told the Journal last week he was disappointed with the re- sponse rate to the ve questions the UNW sent to all 60 candidates in the Northwest Territories 19 ridings. The questions concerned public service job safety and public-private partnerships P3s such as the one that will see a private company build and manage the new Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. Two-thirds of candidates received a failing grade from the UNW either for not respond- ing at all not answering enough questions or answering the rst question - Will you oppose any cuts of GNWT staff including boards and agencies - with a no. The UNW which represents about 6000 employees about 4000 of them public servants published the results and each candidates grade at unw.ca nwt-election-report-card. Members are worried because with the next territorial budget on the horizon job cut rumours are circulating. Its not like were stirring the pot the finance minister himself is doing that and hes not responding Parsons said. Milten- berger received an F from the UNW for answering no to the first question. The Union confronts GNWT job cut rumours in election survey rumours that have been posed by regular MLAs is that every department has been instructed to cut in anticipation of the new budget. Job losses are a real concern and the rumour is out there. Were dealing with this head on. A number of candidates who received an F have criticized the survey as out of context and overly simplistic with false dichotomies forcing candidates to address complex issues with a binary positive or negative response. Noting she walked the picket line during a CBC lockout in 2005 Yellowknife Centre candidate Julie Green blogged that her F grade should not represent a lack of support for the public service. What job interview contains only yes or no questions Green wrote on her election blog. When answers are based on specu- lation rather than information are they good answers that are worth having I do not have enough information now to make a promise not to cut the public service in the future. I could have said yes to all the questions to earn an A but that wouldnt be honest. Dan Wong a former UNW Local 1 presi- dent running in a ve-way race in Yellowknife North wrote in a letter to the UNW that the restrictive questions were not fair to candi- dates or the public. I will say I nd it short-sighted to cut po- sitions and contract out as a means to con- trol budgets and absolutely oppose such measures Wong wrote. However there are some situations where positions must be cut like when federal government or third- party funding for a specic time-limited project expires. Im also signicantly con- cerned about the use of P3 projects for the construction of government infrastructure like hospitals. But Im not prepared to com- mit to categorically banning the P3 model. I prefer to evaluate each project on its own merits on a case by case basis instead of tak- ing an entrenched position before receiving any information. Union had to be practical with questions Parsons said the straightforward ques- tions were created with logistics in mind. The union considered giving each candidate as much as five or 10 lines to answer each question but that would have led to thou- sands of words to either edit or publish. They decided the first option was not fair to the candidates and the second served no use for the membership or members of the general public who would have had to digest it. Candidates in this years election received questionnaires from as many as two dozen special interest groups including the UNW the NWT Seniors Society the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society the Status of Women Council and media outlets includ- ing this newspaper. The NWT Chambers of Commerce created a guide for candidates and voters outlining its top ve priorities for the next assembly. Parsons did not cut the candidates seeking more leeway in commenting on complex is- sues much slack. He said the questions were hosted on a common online tool called Sur- vey Monkey making it easy for any candi- date to take part. Moreover he said candi- dates who want to become an MLA should be ready to deal with a high volume of requests and documents. From what were hearing there are a lot of other groups that are disappointed with the lack of responses too Parsons said. Its not just the UNW. I dont want to pinpoint other groups but surveys put out by social interest groups are not seeing a very good return. I think the UNW response rate seems to be better than the average right now. Producing a report card on candidates for MLA each election is written right into the unions regulations. It is a challenge for the union on how to best meet our objectives as an organization Parsons said. When you have 60 potential candidates in 19 separate ridings its com- plicated when theres no party politics in- asmuch as they dont have platforms. Its very challenging but candidates are either against these things or not. Thats why its easy to say yes or no from our perspective. The survey itself wasnt written for the con- venience of the candidates. It was to assist UNW candidates in making the right choice for their next employer. 4 Wednesday November 18 2015 The Northern Journal is an independent newspaper covering news and events in the western Arctic and northern Alberta. The Northern Journal is published weekly by Cascade Publishing Ltd. Printed at Star Press Inc. Wainwright AB. Publisher................................................................................. Don Jaque 867-872-3000 ext.21 donnorj.ca Editor..................................................................................... Craig Gilbert 867-872-3000 ext.24 newsnorj.ca Reporter....................................................................... Dali Carmichael 867-872-3000 ext.25 reporternorj.ca Comptroller .......................................................Jessica Dell 867-872-3000 ext.20 webnorj.ca Advertising........................................................................... 867-872-3000 ext. 26 adsnorj.ca Administration............................................Jeremy Turcotte 867-872-3000 ext.26 adminnorj.ca Production Manager ......................................Sandra Jaque 867-872-3000 ext.22 sandranorj.ca Graphics........................................................Paul Bannister 867-872-3000 ext.27 graphicsnorj.ca Letters to the Editor Policy The Northern Journal welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be signed and include a phone number so the author can be veried. Names will be withheld on request in special circumstances where the reasons are determined to be valid. The Journal reserves the right to edit letters for length libel clarity and taste. Opinions expressed in letters and columns are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor. EDITORIAL 2013 CCNA BLUE RIBBON CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013 C M C A AUDITED Advertising Deadlines Display ad deadline is Thursday at 400 p.m. Classied ad deadline is Thursday at 500 p.m. Email adsnorj.ca Subscription Rates Prices include GST. 47.25 in Fort Smith 52.50 elsewhere in Canada 105 in the USA overseas 164.30. The Northern Journal acknowledges the nancial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund CPF for our publishing activities. The Man from Athabaska By Robert Service In a green Canada fossil fuel subsidies must fade to black The movement to reduce greenhouse gasses is gaining momentum in Canada now that the newFederalLiberalgovernmentisjoiningBrit- ishColumbiawhichhasbeenapplaudedforits carbon tax system and Ontario and Quebec both heavily subsidizing green technology but astheworldcomestogripswiththefrightening impacts of climate change going green can be lled with nancial pitfalls as well as promise. In the 1990s smog days were common in Ontariosurbancentres.In2002then-premier ErnieEvesaConservativeanddirectsuccessor to Mike Harris pledged to rid Canadas most populousprovinceofcoal-redelectricityplants by 2015. The last coal plant closed in Thunder Bay in April 2014 by which time the storyline hadswitchedfromensuringcleanerairbypro- ducinglessneparticulatematterandnitrogen dioxidetocoolingtheplanetbycurbinggreen- house gas emissions. All the same there were zerosmogdaysin2014downfromtwotheyear before 30 in 2012 and 53 in 2005. As smog days fade from collective memory in Ontario opposition grows to the intense subsidies Premier Kathleen Wynnes Liberals continue to provide for solar and wind genera- tion - 1 billion last year for wind alone. On- tario is painting green projects with red ink. Alberta Premier Rachel Notley has an- nounced her intent to target her own prov- inces coal plants which still supply 38 per cent of the provinces energy as pledged in the partys election campaign last spring part of their climate change strategy. Ironically former Alberta Conservative environment and nance minister Robin Campbell started his job as head of the Coal Association of Canada last Monday. While Notleys plans are praiseworthy and long overdue after years of Tory heel-drag- gingherattentionmustalsobefocusedonthe over-abundantGHGemissionsoftheoilsands industry which she envisions as an interna- tionalshowpieceinordertopioneeradvanced extraction technology as existing projects are expanded and new ones start up. Resource extraction is what we do in Can- ada and in Alberta especially oil is what we know but there be dragons here. Just days away the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference represents Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus rst major interna- tional engagement one where he is likely to address his pledge to end fossil fuel subsidies. Environmental advocacy group Oil Change International and the Overseas Development Institute a UK think-tank have released a study showing that G20 countries still dole out US450 billion to the fossil fuel sector every year despite pledging in 2009 to work toward phasing out the incentives. In Canada several fossil fuel subsidy pro- grams are already under review and a special subsidyfortheoilsandsrandryinJanuarybut incentives to the liquid natural gas sector have ramped up. An average of 2.7 billion in subsi- diesndtheirwaytooilgasandcoaloperations everyyearinCanadaincluding604millionin royaltyreductionsbyAlbertaand981million throughtheCanadianDevelopmentExpensefor oilandgas.Another2.7billioninpublicnances is provided to fossil fuel extraction companies through Export Development Canada more than three-quarters of it internationally. More alarming is a caveat from the reports authors that estimates in this analysis could represent aslittleashalfthetrueamountofCanadianpub- lic nance for fossil fuel production. Oil companies justify the government hand- outsbyarguingtheirindustryiscapital-intensive requiring a lot of upfront cash for exploration anddevelopment.Thisbegsthequestionwhere is the sense in making it easier to extract fossil fuels when climate science shows we need to leave most of it - as much as three-quarters - in the ground to meet GHG reduction targets In Ottawa Conservative Opposition leader Rona Ambrose has been chiding Trudeau on his plan to run decits to pay for programs including massive investments in infrastruc- ture. She should note that pouring billions in cancelled fossil fuel subsidies back into pub- lic coffers would in a roundabout way help get Canada back in the black. Some of that infrastructure spending must be investments in green technologies aimed at retooling the economy based on a new energy source. Every country in the world has to do it. Germany which was Ontarios model for its green energy program moved away from both nuclear and fossil fuel energy genera- tion but realized after 14 years and half a tril- lion dollars that it has to rethink its subsidy programs for renewable electricity to make them affordable and effective. Subsidiesforgreenenergywillbeanessential catalyst to move wind and solar into the mass marketandmakethemaffordable.Thoseincen- tives often happen more at the provincial level but it will be important for the federal govern- menttoplayamajorroleaswendthebestway forwardasacountyinthenewworldeconomy. An average of 2.7 billion in subsidies nd their way to oil gasandcoaloperationsyearly including604millioninroyalty reductions by Alberta and 981millionviatheCanadian Development Expense Oh the wife she tried to tell me that twas nothing but the thrumming Of a wood-pecker a-rapping on the hollow of a tree And she thought that I was fooling when I said it was the drumming Of the mustering of legions and twas calling unto me Twas calling me to pull my freight and hop across the sea. And a-mending of my sh-nets sure I started up in wonder For I heard a savage roaring and twas coming from afar Oh the wife she tried to tell me that twas only summer thunder And she laughed a bit sarcastic when I told her it was War Twas the chariots of battle where the mighty armies are. Then down the lake came Half-breed Tom with russet sail a-ying And the word he said was War again so what was I to do Oh the dogs they took to howling and the missis took to crying As I ung my silver foxes in the little birch canoe Yes the old girl stood a-blubbing till an island hid the view. Says the factor Mike youre crazy They have soldier men a-plenty. Youre as grizzled as a badger and youre sixty year or so. But I havent missed a scrap says I since I was one and twenty. And shall I miss the biggest You can bet your whiskers -- no So I sold my furs and started... and thats eighteen months ago. For I joined the Foreign Legion and they put me for a starter In the trenches of the Argonne with the Boche a step away And the partner on my right hand was an apache from Montmartre On my left there was a millionaire from Pittsburg U. S. A. Poor fellow They collected him in bits the other day. But Im sprier than a chipmunk save a touch of the lumbago And they calls me Old Methoosalah and blagues me all the day. Im their exhibition sniper and they work me like a Dago And laugh to see me plug a Boche a half a mile away. Oh I hold the highest record in the regiment they say. And at night they gather round me and I tell them of my roaming In the Country of the Crepuscule beside the Frozen Sea Where the musk-ox runs unchallenged and the cariboo goes homing And they sit like little children just as quiet as can be Men of every crime and colour how they harken unto me And I tell them of the Furland of the tumpline and the paddle Of secret rivers loitering that no one will explore And I tell them of the ranges of the pack-strap and the saddle And they ll their pipes in silence and their eyes beseech for more While above the star-shells zzle and the high explosives roar. And I tell of lakes sh-haunted where the big bull moose are calling And forests still as sepulchres with never trail or track And valleys packed with purple gloom and mountain peaks appalling And I tell them of my cabin on the shore at Fond du Lac And I nd myself a-thinking Sure I wish that I was back. So I brag of bear and beaver while the batteries are roaring And the fellows on the ring steps are blazing at the foe And I yarn of fur and feather when the marmites are a-soaring And they listen to my stories seven poilus in a row Seven lean and lousy poilus with their cigarettes aglow. And I tell them when its over how Ill hike for Athabaska And those seven greasy poilus they are crazy to go too. And Ill give the wife the pickle-tub I promised and Ill ask her The price of mink and marten and the run of cariboo And Ill get my traps in order and Ill start to work anew. For Ive had my ll of ghting and Ive seen a nation scattered And an army swung to slaughter and a river red with gore And a city all a-smoulder and... as if it really mattered For the lake is yonder dreaming and my cabins on the shore And the dogs are leaping madly and the wife is singing gladly And Ill rest in Athabaska and Ill leave it nevermore. Wednesday November 18 2015 5 COLUMNS 15 Years Ago... Record number run in Fort Res Nineteen people are running for four positions on the Deninoo Community Council in Fort Resolution. The election will be held Dec. 11. Eight people sit on the council and four seats are elected every year for a two- year term. Richard Simon is currently the chairperson or mayor of the council but that could change after the election when the new council will elect a mayor from among the council members. Issue November 15 2000 20 Years Ago... Fort Chip band elects new chief TheAthabascaChipewyanbandvotedinArchieCyprien as their new chief on October 30 in Fort Chipewyan. The chiefs seat became vacant in August when Tony Mercredi resigned as chief to become the Executive Director of the Athabasca Tribal Corporation. Big John Marcel was the acting chief between the time Mercredi resigned and the new chief was elected. Issue November 14 1995 30 Years Ago... Government workers dont want smoking or ban An overwhelming 70.3 per cent of public servants in the NWT are in favour of governmental departmental or legislative policy restricting smoking in the workplace while 24.9 per cent of their coworkers are opposed and 4.8 per cent indifferent. All is not lost for the smoker however as 66.5 per cent oppose a complete ban on smoking during work hours. Issue November 14 1985 ARCHIVES Northern Journal 2015 Join us online Like Northern Journal on Facebook and get the weekly news delivered to your feed FACEBOOK FEEDBACK The museum is asking citizens to dig into their old stockpiles of seasonal decorations toys photographs and even cookbooks to put together an idea of what a local Christmas would have looked like in the past. Northern Life Museum preparing for a very Fort Smith Christmas 6 people like this. Aurora College throws open the door on trades pro- grams at Thebacha Campus. Aurora College puts trades on display at Thebacha Campus open house Roger Vcw likes this. By DAWN KOSTELNIK It is dark on the way home. This time of the year it is al- waysdark.Myhouseisbefore GracesIwatchfromthedoor until I can no longer see her. Once she is out of my sight it is only minutes for her to reachherdoor.Thiswinterwe climbthroughapartialtunnel of hard packed snow into our house. I live down by the sea the other girls live up the hill by the school. It blows some- thing erce off of the ocean. It takes only a tiny obstruc- tion to build up a hard packed snow bank. Sometimes when we are feeling the devil in us we put rocks on the road at the start White Girl Soldiers of God ofthewhiteoutsArcticwinter blizzards. The rocks create a barrier that snowballs and morphs into a much larger obstacle.Inthemorninghuge drifts have built up and the tractor has to come out to dig the road out again. Itisareallyreallybadthing to do this. With the big drifts ontheroadthefueltruckand water delivery trucks cant get through. My dad has to get David to start up the D6 Cat and plow out the road so that the other trucks can get through. They keep on won- dering why the drifts happen in these strange places We have dug out a bank of snow that is of our creation there is a maze of forts in our back yard under this snow bank. The snow gets so hard thatevenwithallof itsweight the Bombardier sometimes doesnt leave tracks on the surfaceofthesnow.Itismuch warmer inside our forts than it is outside. Once we get one roomdugoutthereisntmuch else to do but expand. Room after room is dug out of the snowthatcutslikebutterwith a knife. Mufed sounds are heard from outside. Whats going on Graces uncle Allen has a surprise for us. We crawl on our bellies out of our almost igloos. Our outside pants are made of untanned caribou hide this slides easily on the snow. The caribou pants are short in length coming to the top of our kamiks. Our mitts are caribou as well with store boughtleathermittsasliners. My dads pants are made of polar bear. What does Allen have He carries something squirming inside of his Anorak. Gentle like he is picking up eggs he reaches inside and brings out hishand.Whatisitshowus With two cupped hands he displays a grey puffball of the softest fur. There is no de- nition the puffball is round and looks like a pompom. Suddenly it moves a bit tiny feet stick out of the pompom. A whimper and the pompom topplessideways.Ohmywhat is this thing Gentle gentle you can each hold one I get to hold the rst one. I can feel warmth coming through the so soft fur. I rub my nose on it. It smells like a baby critter smells sort of like a puppy. I know this smell but cant place it. Oneafteranotherhegently pulls these babies out of his parka.Withourmittsthrown on the ground we stand mar- veling at these tiny creatures. They are all making little mewing whimpers. What are they Where are they from To be continued www.thewhitegirl.ca By PATRICK SCOTT JustinTrudeauhasnowbeen PrimeMinisterforafortnight. He ascended to the ofce on the promise of real change. Remarkablyhehasalreadyde- livered on that basic promise after only a fortnight. Canada has changed. Canadians are living with a new hope. The focus is positive moving for- wardtorebuildingourNation onthecorevaluesweinnately carry-respectstrengthindi- versity and humanitarian ac- tion.Thesevalueshavequickly quashed the fear the negativ- ism and the partisans that Harperruledwithfor10years. Somemaydisagreebutthe change has been in many re- spectsmiraculous.Withjusta fewuniqueactionsTrudeauis tellingallCanadiansandthein- ternational community that a newerahasbeguninCanada. Itbeganwithhiswalkdownthe driveway of Rideau Hall with hiselectedinnercircleofcabi- netministerappointeesandthe openingthegroundssoanyone couldattend.Thexedcrowds thatHarperdeployedtoevery announcementandeveryelec- tion stoparegone.Thedooris opened. Then he did what he saidhewouldcreatedacabinet ofdiversityreectingCanadas diversitybutequallystrongin gender. Remarkable a leader who keeps his promise on his rst day in ofce. Theopendoorwidenedashe agreedtoletCBCinfollowhim onhisrstdaytothetopofthe PeaceTowerwithhischildren to raise the ag and then ride onthebusassomanyCanadi- ansdoeverydaytoParliament Hill with his team instead of scurrying across from Rideau Hallinlimousinesaselitiststo runthecountry.Andashewas abouttoenterhisrstCabinet meeting he shared his vision of leadership - enabling oth- ers to achieve their potential just as a teacher does. Wow enabling people instead of muzzling them. Normally not aremarkableactionbutafter10 years of Harper very refresh- ing. None of these actions are earth shattering but in the af- termathofHarpersautocratic leadership they are profound and liberating. He continued his real changebysharingpubliclythe mandate letters to each of his cabinet ministers. These di- rectives are more than a cos- metic gesture for the public to consume. They articulate his vision and commitment to build an even greater coun- try to honour the trust Ca- nadianshavegivenus andto actinnonpartisanwaysonce again unlike his predecessor Harper. The transparency is not only good politics it is a publicdeclarationthatenables allofustoholdeachofthemto be accountable. Now as he moves on to the world stage as prime minis- terinthemidstofcrisis-laden worldaftertheattacksinBeirut andParishehasreiteratedhis commitmenttomoveforward bybuildinginsteadofdestroy- ing.SowhiletheConservatives stillrespondwithfearTrudeau ischoosingtoputfearandop- pression behind us and move forwardwithbringing25000 Syrian refugees to Canada as soon as possible to redene the relationship Canada has with the Indigenous peoples of Canada to address climate change and to even revamp the Senate into a merit-based non-partisan institution to guide our legislative process to ensure our deepest values are sustained and respected in our laws. Well Mr. Trudeau I extend a simple thank you for the real change you have initi- ated across our land. I urge you to continue with these positiveinitiativesandnotlet the old guard convince you to do otherwise. Patrick Scott PhD. is the negotiations coordinator for Dehcho First Nations. Trudeaus real change refreshing 6 Wednesday November 18 2015 ARTS CULTURE GRAPHIC NOVELS By DALI CARMICHAEL When artist Alison McCreesh and her partner moved to Yellowknife their only plan was to hang out on the shores of Great Slave Lake for a single summer. Six-and-a-halfyearslaterthecou- ple still calls the NWT capital home. InherlatestprojectMcCreeshhas captured the story of her migration fromQuebectoYellowknifeandset- tlement in the city in a new graphic novelRamshacklewhichlaunchedon Nov.11attheDowntoEarthGallery. Its the story of moving North to Yellowknife and getting to know Yellowknife and growing to like it and discovering all of its quirks and things that make it special and en- tertaining she said. I had all that material and it seemed silly not to make use of that. An artist by trade McCreesh made it a habit to draw cartoons frequently and post them in a blog. She combed through the archives carefully to select the panels that would create Ramshackle. In my work I focus on the very sort of mundane day to day things butalsothesmallquirksthatyound inthosethings.Indwherethemore traditional meets the more contem- poraryisoftenwhereIndhumour she said. I like the idea of say kids ontheiriPadswiththeirtraditionally made sealskin kamiks or things like that.Thatspartofthecontemporary Northern identity in a sense. Panel by panel artist captures Yellowknife PhotoBillBraden To anyone who calls Yellowknife home some scenes from the book should be immediately recognizable. TothosefolksontheoutsideMcCreesh hopesitwillendearthemtothenorth- ern capital or at the very least pique theircuriosityaboutcontemporarylife in the Northwest Territories. I put a lot of attention into the detail in all the drawings and kept it pretty realistic. I hope people re- ally enjoy recognizing all the little detailsandtheplacesandthepeople the light she said.Though our sto- ries are unique in a sense - I mean everyone has their own story - its a variation on that universal story of movingNorthcomingforasummer and staying. I hope lots of people recognize their own story in that. AsofnowMcCreeshandherpart- nerhavestartedanewchapterintheir lives.Theyareraisingababyintheir shack - with no running water - on the edge of the city. Alreadyshehasstartedhercollec- tion of drawings from her growing familys latest adventure - perhaps thesubjectforafuturegraphicnovel. Alison McCreesh ips through her graphic novel Ramshackle. PanelcourtesyofAlisonMcCreesh I spoke to an ATCO senior exec a couple weeks back and he said their plans for a Slave River hydro project are very active. ATCO is busy right now constructing a 500 KV power line from Edmonton to McMurray. The tender for the multi billion dollar project was let by Alberta in 2014. The powering- alberta website says they will have the ability to move power from north- eastern Alberta to other areas of the province. Lets not wait until the bulldozers show up to think about this. It has always been ATCOs plan to gather the excess power from the oilsands industry generated with petroleum products and add that to a Slave River dams capacity. The project would include developing ve proposed dam sites on the Taltson River within 100 km of Fort Smith. The NWT government is on record supporting export of power from the NWT. With the diamond mines near end of life the NWT cabinet would endorse the project for the tax revenue. All the land around us would be industrialized. The ght to stop the Slave River dam would divide Fort Smith with a lot of hate for at least a decade. Many people would leave. Smith Landing First Nation SRFN would be tied up in litigation draining their money focusing their energy on the negative. When you look at how indigenous rights have been pushed aside to build Site C dam on the Peace they could eventually lose even though they own land around the rapids. Most of the construction contracts for the massive project would go to big southern companies. Once done all the wealth would ow south along with the power. A few people here Creative ideas for a better future Don Jaque for MLA Authorized by Sandra Dolan 867 445-1447 ofcial agent for Don JaqueIdeas.Action .Community Please vote for Don Jaque for Thebacha MLA Monday. Nov. 23 The plan to dam the Slave River... What you need to know. would get very rich but only a few. There is a reason ATCO sponsored that new Smith gas station. It was an investment. Dams are operated remotely so once the project was nished Fort Smith would end up with a dozen janitor and security jobs - nothing more. The community the river and the land around would be changed forever. Expanding the current Taltson Dam - what I advocate - would have no nega- tive impact. South Slave communities would have affordable power for 50 years or more with construction managed so that jobs contracts and wealth stays here along with revenue for the GNWT. If steered in that direction ATCO would be a happy partner in that project. It makes so much more sense. The Slave River Rapids are one of the most extraordinary places in Alberta international in scale like Banff and Jasper yet few Albertan know of it. We need to tell them - to market the amazing beauty. Why not propose a provin- cial park on the Alberta side of the Rapids to Premier Notley get her up here to appreciate what Alberta has I brought that idea to SLFN Chief Wandering Spirit last week and he thought it had merit. Negotiated similar to the plan for Lutsel Ke in the Thaidene-nene East Arm National Park a provincial park on the Slave Rapids would be an opportunity for SLFN to be active in park operations with jobs as guides and wardens for their young people. It would promote tourism and might be the needed catalyst for a shorter road south. Fort Smith is a beautiful peaceful secure community a place to raise a family to have a good life. Lets keep it that way Wednesday November 18 2015 7 EDUCATION LANGUAGE On November 23 2015 ELECT LOUIS SEBERT MLA Thebacha Authorized by Patti Haaima Official Agent for Louis Sebert 867 872-0908 Contact Information Website www.louissebert.com Email lsebertnorthwestel.net Phone 867 872-2199 Office Cell 867 688-7703 Campaign Headquarters McDougal Center Record of Community Service Town Councillor for 14 years and Deputy Mayor for six years Past President of Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce Practising lawyer in Fort Smith for 31 years and Treasurer of the NWT Law Society for two years Served on the Board of Directors of NWT Power Corp. for seven years Instructor at Aurora College for 30 years Served as a NWT Human Rights Adjudicator for the past three years Supporter of Amnesty International for 25 years Member and later Chair of the Legal Services Board of the NWT from 2009 to 2015 Former member of the Fort Smith District Education Authority I look forward to bringing this experience to benefit this community in the Legislature of the NWT. Thank you for your support. Time for Change By DALI CARMICHAEL Liz Aapack Fowler may not be the most well-known educator in the North but her work has certainly inuenced many - if not all - students who have passed through edu- cation systems in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. For her efforts in the classroom and her contributions to curriculum development Fowler was honoured at the 2015 Guiding the Journey Indigenous Educator Awards for Culture Language and Traditions by Indspire an organization which recognizes and celebrates outstanding educators for their achievement and innovation in In- digenous education. On Nov. 13 the orga- nization held its annual gala and handed out the awards. Im very honoured Fowler said. I think that the category that I was nominated for is very honourable and certainly Im very pleased about it and humbled. Born and raised in Iglulik Nunavut Fowler said she was quite privileged to grow up with her extensive family where she was im- mersed in her language and culture. We had very few people in my little town my little community and everybody knew everybody and there was no English spo- ken she said. We were very independent and took care of each other and hunted from the land and the sea so my first in- troduction to learning was from every- body. Everybody had something to offer. When she started her teaching career in 1974 in Iglulik she was one of the rst Inuit teachers in the eastern Arctic and used her traditional language of Inuktitut in the classroom. She soon became an In- uktitut program specialist at the Teaching and Learning Centre in Iqaluit eventually taking on a role as the culture-based educa- tion curriculum coordinator at the Depart- ment of Education Culture and Employment in Yellowknife. In 1995 she left her teaching career to open a consulting business and one year later she coordinated the development of Inuuqatigiit The Curriculum from the Inuit Perspective a document which revolutionized culture and language teaching and became the basis for curriculum development in the newly cre- ated territory of Nunavut. It is still used in both Nunavut and the NWT today. One of Fowlers most recent projects was of particular importance to her. Participating in the development of the Grade 10 residential school resource which came out as a collaboration between NWT and Nunavut was fundamentally impor- tant Fowler said. It was something that is so necessary for the two territories. Culture language and worldview While completing her work Fowler always aims to view her subject matter through mul- tiple worldviews. Withineverylinguisticculturetherearesome deepvaluesthatcansurpassanylanguageany culture Fowler said. I think those are funda- mental in passing on and they are values that have sustained human kind throughout eons and those are things that I grew up with and theyreinsomeoftheresourcesIhelpeddevelop. This is a lesson that Fowler has stressed to her contemporaries said Mindy Willett a former consultant who has worked with her on and off for 15 years. When we worked together on the last two projects Liz and would I write together but si- multaneously.ShewritesinInuktitutandIwrite inEnglishWillettsaid.OneofthethingsIve learnedfromLizisthattranslationsdontwork we need to work in more than one language at atimeandthatwayeventhoughinEnglishwe oftenhopetoachievewritingfromanIndigenous perspective unless you actually take the time and think about it in the Indigenous language youre not going to get it right. Those same values that inuence a persons worldview can also help steer them towards success - however they dene it - Fowler said. Toyoungpeople-theworldisbigitssowon- derfulandIthinkthatifyouhaveagoodstrong foundationoffamilyvaluescommunityvalues or whatever you want to call it I think that can sustain you anywhere and go anywhere and I think that that is valuable in itself. NWT traditional teacher honoured with educators award PhotocourtesyofIndspire Liz Aapack Fowler received an Indigenous educator award for her work with language. 8 Wednesday November 18 2015 Corporal Peter George from 440 Transport Squadron walks with his daughter after the indoor Remembrance Day ceremony held at Saint Patricks High School in Yellowknife on Nov. 11. PhotoBelindaJeromchuk Leading Air Cadet Josh Donison left and Army Cadet Damon Dwojak were among the Cadets who stood vigil in shifts through the night on Nov. 10 at the Vincent Massey Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 Cenotaph in downtown Yellowknife. JK to Grade 2 students at Chief Paul Niditchie School in Tsiigehtchic on Nov. 10. PhotoBillBraden Drama students at PWK High School presented The Christmas Truce an 11-minute play depicting the Christmas Eve ceasefire of 1914 at the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Community Recreation Centre in Fort Smith Nov. 11. PhotoCraigGilbert Tsiigehtchic students in Grades 3 to 5 recognized Remembrance Day on Nov. 10. Remembrance DayRemembrance Day PhotoLawrenceNorbert PhotoLawrenceNorbert Canadian Ranger Dorothy Simon Junior Ranger Machaela Larocque of Fort Resolution and 2015 Silver Cross mother Sheila Anderson of Yellowknife tour the House of Commons on Nov. 10. Wednesday November 18 2015 9 NORTHERNERS REMEMBRANCE DAY By DALI CARMICHAEL The eyes of the nation upon her Machaela Larocque tepidly laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at the centre of Confederation Square in Ottawa this Remembrance Day. Of all the thousands of Junior Canadian Rangers JCR spread out across the nations northern frontier the 17 year-old from Fort Resolution was selected to represent her peers in the sacred moment apparently because I am the best of the best of the Junior Rang- ers thats all Ive been told. Larocque has participated in the youth program since the age of 12 completing leadership and on the land training every step of the way. When I was walking around the parade I was just thinking please dont trip things like that nothing else was going through my mind. Just dont mess up the senior JCR said. I felt major pride. I had to carry myself differently while I was there just because I represented so many people and they deserve to be represented well. Those looking on couldnt see the nerves only a stoic teen decked out in the JCRs iconic green hoodie and baseball cap. Its so important because we wouldnt have ourfreedomwithoutthetroopsLarocquesaid of Remembrance Day. Everything about it is important.Somanygoodmenandwomensacri- ficedthemselvessothatwecanhavegoodlives. So many people say that but that is exactly it. Following the ceremonious elements of her excursionLarocqueandherchaperone-fellow Canadian Ranger and Fort Res resident Dol- lie Simon - were given the capital experience. Lookingatthecrowdseeingthevetsitwas so beautiful Simon said. I felt so proud be- causeweweretheonlytwoNorthernersthere. It was overwhelming Larocque said de- scribing her whirlwind trip. From shaking hands with newly minted PrimeMinisterJustinTrudeautodinnerwith the Governor General and tours throughout theParliamentBuildingsandtheNationalWar Museum there was hardly a moment for rest. TheyevengottomeetwithSilverCrossMother Sheila Anderson of Yellowknife the first from the NWT in more than 60 years to take part in the tradition. Once you actually meet them youre like theyreactuallyjustpeopleLaroquesaid.Jus- tin Trudeau was so down to earth it was like Wow.Hesjustlikeanotherhuman.Hedoesnt have any ego. Everyone I met I just realized theyrenotanybetterthananyoneelsetheyre just equal theyre just humans. Larocque said she was absolutely inspired by her overwhelming trip even if it was over relatively quickly. IloveOttawanowandImactuallyplanning on moving and going to university or college thereormaybejoiningthemilitarytobecome a medical officer or something. A brave and human face Andersontoldthe JournalSundaynightthe repeated emotional questions from the media have been more challenging to navigate than the trip to Ottawa which she also described as overwhelming. IfoundthatquitedifficultbutImgladIhad the opportunity she said. I had a wonderful trip.HavinglostafamilymembertowarIthink you need to put a human face on that. Unfor- tunately this year it had to be mine but Cana- dians stand behind us as grieving parents and for the vets as well. Andersons son Corporal Jordan Anderson was killed with five other Canadian soldiers when a roadside bomb exploded southwest of Kandahar City on July 4 2007. TheSilverCrossMothersaidhertakingonthe responsibilityoflayingawreathinOttawawas lessaboutherownsonandmoreaboutthefam- ilies of other soldiers from other conflicts and thosesoldierswhoreturnhomeneedingsupport. Thereweresomanykilledintheworldwars she said. Some parents never had their kids bodies repatriated and to me its more impor- tantlyaboutthatandthepeoplethatcomeback alive and need help. Our previous government has sort made that difficult and I hope the new government will correct all of that. - with files from Craig Gilbert Territories well-represented in Ottawa on Nov. 11 Larocque centre with cadets and members of the National Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Support Group during a tour of Ottawa on November 9. PhotoscourtesyDorothySimon Larocque meets Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. 10 Wednesday November 18 2015 Please leave a message at 872-5543 for details. WESCLEAN NORTHERN SALES LTD. Ph 867 875-5100 Fax 867 875-5155 Avalon Cat Hair - long Size - medium Gender - female Avalon is a very loving and beautiful cat. She is spayed and is up-to-date with all her shots.If you think you have a home for a Avalon please call the shelter at 872-5543. Please leave a message at 872-5543 for details. WESCLEAN NORTHERN SALES LTD. Ph 867 875-5100 Fax 867 875-5155 E-mail infowescleannwt.com web www.wescleannwt.com Avalon Cat Hair - long Size - medium Gender - female Avalon is a very loving and beautiful cat. She is spayed and is up-to-date with all her shots.If you think you have a home for a Avalon please call the shelter at 872-5543. Please leave a message at 872-5543 for details. WESCLEAN NORTHERN SALES LTD. Ph 867 875-5100 Fax 867 875-5155 E-mail infowescleannwt.com web www.wescleannwt.com Avalon Cat Hair - long Size - medium Gender - female Avalon is a very loving and beautiful cat. She is spayed and is up-to-date with all her shots.If you think you have a home for a Avalon please call the shelter at 872-5543. SpayedNeutered Up-to-datewithroutineshots House trained KitkatMaleAdult Brown tabby Looking for a new home Kitkat is soft and friendly and needs a new home. So give him a break for goodness sake. Please stop by and make Kitkat your new pet. INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT Operator School www.IHESCHOOL.com Call Now 1-866-399-3853 Housing Transportation Packages Available NO SIMULATORS JOB ASSISTANCE FOR LIFE NEVER SHARE MACHINES START ANY MONDAY GET TRAINED. GET WORKING. Continued from page 1. With the annual election of half of the six seats on council and his own coming in De- cember Leskiw is not sure whether he will be mayor at Christmas let alone when the pel- let mill res up. Mapes on the other hand received a four-year mandate on Oct. 19. He said the project has little or no chance of cre- ating a conict of interest for him at the Hay River council table. The agreement was a huge step for us he said on Nov. 12. We still have a few things to work out with our harvest communities on our bre agreements and legacy agreements but were going to have a public signing in the next couple of weeks and move on to the next steps. Those steps include site preparation for construction of the mill located on the rail line and near the centre of AWPs har- vest area. The mill would provide a use for wood burned in the record wildfire seasons of the past two summers. Burned wood be- comes uneconomical to harvest after three or four years as the surrounding foliage grows back in. Live trees will also be har- vested initially in Fort Simpson and Fort Providence. Wood will come from Fort Resolution Deninu Kue First Nation and the Fort Prov- idence Mtis Council which have signed 25-year fibre management agreements FMAs with the territorial government and will receive a per cubic-metre royalty for trees removed. Mapes hopes other communities includ- ing Hay River and Jean Marie River will come on board as well the level of produc- tion and physical size of the mill which has room to expand will depend on how much wood is coming in. The plan is to use experienced harvesters at rst then to hire and train locals. It will be around a 120000 tonne per- year operation depending on how we tie the harvest agreements together Mapes said. Each harvest community will have the nal say on how much wood will be taken and from where but there is no question the harvest- ing practices will be sustainable. Its a great boost to the community. Mapes said AWP has the full support of the former GNWT premier and cabinet. The governments 2012-2015 Biomass Energy Strategy shows residents still rely on non- renewable resources including diesel and natural gas for 89 per cent of space heating demand with just ve and six per cent of demand lled by cordwood and wood pel- lets respectively. The same data sourced from 2010-11 indicate biomass heating systems offset the equivalent of 16 per cent of the GN- WTs heating fuel consumption or 2.4 million litres of oil avoiding the release of 6500 tonnes of greenhouse gas emis- sions each year. The GNWT also promotes the use of bio- mass systems like wood pellet stoves by in- dividual residents and larger boilers and furnace systems with its Energy Efciency Incentive and Alternative Energy Technol- ogy rebate programs. Environment and Natural Resources Min- ister Michael Miltenberger said in Fort Smith Nov. 12 the AWP mill represents a major step in the GNWT biomass strategy. Biomass is part of our plan to cut the cost of living and cut our greenhouse gases he said. The price of oil drove people to pel- lets and the second stage of the plan is to build an industry. The land transfer was one of the last pieces of a process Miltenberger said Mapes has been patient in working through. He has invested a lot of his own money he has his customers lined up including a 10-year agreement to supply the GNWT Miltenberger said. This is a really impor- tant piece for us that creates employment in two small communities and hopefully Jean Marie River soon. Mapes could buy logs from Alberta if the supply runs out but he has stayed committed to the North and he deserves credit for that. INDUSTRY BIOMASS Brad Mapes president of Aurora Wood Pellets Ltd. and now mayor of Hay River is pictured with delegates from South Korean industrial company Hyosung Corp. in Yellowknife last April. PhotocourtesyofBradMapes Mill will source wood in Forts Simpson Providence Wednesday November 18 2015 11 1. Work with Aboriginal governments and organizations to establish and permanently protect key conservation areas in the NWT prioritizing areas first identified by communities under the NWT Protected Areas Strategy 2. Support the establishment of Thaidene Nene as a national park reserve and territorial park 3. Champion economic diversification that minimizes our reliance on non- renewable resource extraction by supporting communities to develop local economic opportunities based on sustainable tourism and conservation of special areas Dehcho Lyle Fabian yes yes yes Frame Lake David Wasylciw yes yes yes Jan Fullerton no answer no answer yes Kevin OReilly yes yes yes Roy Erasmus yes yes yes hay river North Karen Felker yes yes yes RJ Rocky Simpson yes yes yes Robert Bouchard see full response yes see full response hay river South Brian Willows no yes yes Jane Groenewegen yes no answer yes Wally Schumann yes yes yes kam Lake Kieron Testart yes yes yes Great SLave Lake Glen Abernethy yes yes yes NaheNDeh Dneze Nakehko yes yes yes Dennis Nelner yes yes yes Kevin Menicoche yes yes yes Shane Thompson yes yes yes raNGe Lake Caroline Cochrane- Johnson yes yes yes Daryl Dolynny yes yes yes Sahtu Judi Tutcho yes no answer yes thebacha Don Jaque yes yes yes Louis Sebert yes yes yes Michael Miltenberger yes yes yes yeLLowkNiFe ceNtre Julie Green yes yes yes Robert Hawkins see full response see full response see full response yeLLowkNiFe North Ben Nind yes yes yes Cory Vanthuyne yes yes yes Dan Wong yes yes yes Edwin Castillo yes yes yes yeLLowkNiFe South Bob McLeod yes yes yes Nigitstil Norbert yes yes yes CPAWS-NWT CONSERVATION ISSUES QUESTIONNAIRE FOR TERRITORIAL CANDIDATES We asked three questions of all 60 territorial candidates for the NWT If elected will you... On November 23rd PLEASE VOTE Only candidates who responded to our questionnaire are listed. Candidates with an asterisk provided additional information in their answers. Want to read their full responses Visit www.cpawsnwt.org Our mission is to conserve the land water and wildlife of the NWT for current and future generations by working together with NWT residents governments communities and organizations. THE UNION OF NORTHERN WORKERS NWT Election Report Card NWT voters go to the polls November 23 to elect new members of the Legislative Assembly. The Union of Northern Workers has asked candidates their positions on issues important to UNW Members and to the delivery of high quality public services for NWT citizens. Candidates are graded A to F on Yes or No responses to five questions 1. Will you oppose any cuts of GNWT staff including boards and agencies 2. Will you oppose any further contracting out of government services 3. Will you oppose any further use of Public-Private Partnerships P3s for GNWT projects 4. Will you work to end the policy of Zero Program Growth 5. Will you ensure the Union of Northern Workers is a full participant in the proposed modernization of the Public Service Act Grades are assigned A Yes responses to all 5 questions B Yes responses to 4 questions C Yes responses to 3 questions F No response to 3 or more questions any no response to Question 1 on job cuts or failure to respond to the survey Go to www.unw.ca to see each candidates grade and response to each question. 12 Wednesday November 18 2015 Todd Parsons President Union of Northern Workers Then get out and vote for candidates who support the interests of workers and the quality of public services as demonstrated by their answers to our survey. Open Letter to NWT Voters WWW.UNW.CA The Union of Northern Workers set out in this NWT election to put all candidates on record for their positions on issues important to territorial government workers and to the users of GNWT services. We asked candidates to hold themselves accountable to the voters with straightforward an- swers to five yes or no questions. The issues most important to UNW Members are clear no job cuts no contracting out no more Public Private Partnerships no more strangled service growth and full participation in modernizing the Public Service Act. Candidates are either for or against these things. The results 20 candidates answered completely 5 candidates gave partial responses 7 candidates formally notified the UNW of their refusal to provide yesno answers 28 candidates did not respond Detailed results are posted on our website www.unw.ca These questions were posed on behalf of the more than 4000 UNW workers in the GNWT public service. With 60 candidates running in 19 ridings and no party platforms its very difficult to gather information on candidates positions and present it in an understandable form. Thats why the UNW used a basic survey of five questions with yes or no answers. This election is a job interview for the people who will run our government. Our Members and all citizens need to know where politicians stand before we hire them. It is disappointing that so many candidates seeking to lead the territory and ultimately oversee the management of the territorial public service failed to provide a response. The UNW urges all Members and voters to go to our website see who stepped up to be counted and how they replied on issues that matter to workers. Todd Parsons Wednesday November 18 2015 13 Say it in 25 words or less for only 3.50 Extra words are 20 centseach.Businessclassifieds are 10 for 30 words and 25 centsforeach additionalword. 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Skid steers wheel loaders screeners low beds any condition running or not. 250-260-0217 3 wide version 3.75 wide version View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at www.1800bigiron.com View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at www.1800bigiron.com 1-800-BIG IRON 244-4766 NEVER SHOCK CHLORINATE AGAIN Big Iron Drillings patented Tell them Danny Hooper sent you AlsoRuralWaterTreatment ProvinceWide 1-800-BIG IRON 244-4766 NEVER SHOCK CHLORINATE AGAIN Big Iron Drillings patented Tell them Danny Hooper sent you Also Rural Water Treatment Province Wide EMPLOYMENT TENDERS AND LEGAL NOTICES Wednesday November 18 2015 15 WESCLEAN NORTHERN SALES WESCLEAN NORTHERN SALES is the NWTs first choice for Janitorial and Industrial Supplies Flooring Paint and Wallcoverings Premium Wood Pellet Sales and Door to Door Truck Courier Service WESCLEAN 15 Industrial Drive Hay River NT Tel 875-5100 Fax 875-5115 www.wescleannwt.com Flooring Area Rugs Paint Window Coverings Janitorial Supplies W ESCLEA N N.W.T. HURRY IN Sale ends Nov. 27 Flooring Area Rugs Paint Window Coverings Janitorial Supplies interior design headquarters Buffalo Express AIR Toll-free 1 800 465-3168 salesbuffaloairexpress.com www.buffaloairexpress.com Yellowknife - 867 765-6002 Hay River - 867 874-3307 Edmonton - 780 455-9283 WE SERVICE ALL POINTS IN THE NWT that are accessible by commercial aircraft. Ask about our TRUCK AIR EXPRESS RATESTruck Air Express trucks from Edmonton and Calgary and flies out of Yellowknife. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Education and Training Coordinator Smiths Landing First Nation SLFN an Alberta Band located near the town of Fort Smith NT is inviting applications for the position of Education and Training Coordinator. The successful applicant will report to the Band Manager and be responsible for the following Ensure students have pertinent information required for student financial assistance under the SLFN Education Policy Assist members to apply for funding under the ASETS program Assist members to establish career goals and to develop education or other plans Assist members with job search strategies and writing resums Assist members to prepare for job interviews Assist and develop the summer student cultural program The Education and Training Coordinator would normally attain the required knowledge skills and aptitudes through completion of a Diploma or Degree in Business Management with 1 to 2 years experience. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are an asset. Equivalen- cies will be considered based on experience. A job description is available upon request. A Criminal Record Check must be completed and an Oath of Confidentiality will be taken. A valid drivers licence is required. Closing Date November 27 2015 at 500PM MST Salary Negotiable based on education and experience. Please mail or e-mail your resum and cover letter to Lynda Martin P.O. Box 306 Fort Smith NT X0E 0P0 Phone 867872-2945 Email wlmartinnorthwestel.net EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Social Development Officer Smiths Landing First Nation SLFN an Alberta Band located near the town of Fort Smith NT is inviting applications for the position of Social Development Officer. The successful applicant will report to the Band Manager and be responsible for Completing Client Assessments and maintaining accurate client records Preparing and reporting monthly financials and statistics using a data base system Must become familiar with AANDC Income Support Policy Manual Required to do intake appointments and interviews to assess clients Providing and identifying areas of assistance under the Income Support Program Assist in developing appropriate client support systems within the community Maintain a tracking system and database Secure funding for wellness activities The Social Development Officer would normally attain the required knowledge skills and aptitudes through completion of a Diploma or Degree in Social Work or Human Services with 2 to 3 years experience. Excellent written and verbal commu- nication skills are an asset. Equivalencies will be considered based on experience. A job description is available upon request. A Criminal Record Check must be completed and an Oath of Confidentiality will be taken. A valid drivers licence is required. Closing Date November 27 2015 at 500PM MST Salary Negotiable based on education and experience. Please mail or e-mail your resume and cover letter to Lynda Martin P.O. Box 306 Fort Smith NT X0E 0P0 Phone 867872-2945 Email wlmartinnorthwestel.net EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR Yellowknife NT Description Outdoor work in winter and summer and requires Organize and direct planting of trees gardens and lawns Work under pressure Handling heavy loads Physically demanding Manual dexterity Attention to detail Tight deadlines Duties Plan and estimate labour and materials Maintain work records and logs Hire supervise and schedule staff Read blueprints and drawings Remuneration 17 per hour Area of Specialization Landscape construction Grounds maintenance Design Specific Skills Resolve work related problems Requisition or order materials equipment and supplies Repair and maintain equipment Plan and direct grounds maintenance Organize and direct construction of fences decks and walls Establish work schedules and procedures Plan manage and supervise landscape construction work Position will require ability to supervise 3-4 people and requires excellent oral communication. Permanent position - 5 years experience required. Contact Joncavo.ca for more information.3 wide version 3.75 wide version Internationally Acclaimed Speakers Advertising Page Design Sales Creative Cloud Software Journalism Photography Full course descriptions online www.awna.comsymposium AWNAs Annual Symposium Internationally Acclaimed Speakers Advertising Page Design Sales Creative Cloud Software Journalism Photography Full course descriptions online www.awna.comsymposium AWNAs Annual Symposium 12345 12345 3 wide version 3.75 wide version Place your ad in this newspaper and province wide with a combined circulation of over 800000 for only... 995plus GSTHST Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andreaawna.com or visit this community newspaper the most outofyouradvertisingdollarssqueeze Place your ad in this newspaper and province wide with a combined circulation of over 800000 for only... 995plus GSTHST Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andreaawna.com or visit this community newspaper the most out of your advertising dollarssqueeze Program-value-ad.indd 1 72511 12 867 872 - 3000 ext. 26 effective stylish advertising call Your business in print 867 872-3000 ext. 27 or graphicsnorj.ca 207 McDougal Rd Fort Smith NT We offer a range of custom design services cascade graphics 16 Wednesday November 18 2015 POLITICS TERRITORIAL ELECTION By CRAIG GILBERT After the deadline to file nomination pa- pers for the Nov. 23 election passed on Oct. 30 the Northern Journal sent candidates these four questions 1. Why are you running 2. What are the issues facing your riding 3. Why should voters cast a ballot for you 4. What do you do in your spare time Below are the responses received by our press deadline on Nov. 16. Answers have been edited for length and presented in hopes to help voters make an informed decision. We prioritized ridings for which we received all or most candidates responses some responses were printed in our Nov. 11 issue. Inuvik-Twin Lakes Robert McLeod incumbent 1. Because I have a passion for the commu- nity of Inuvik the experience Ive gained in the past 11 years has positioned me to where I can be a benefit to Inuvik. 2. Cost of living utilities are very high and unfortunately costs are passed on to the consumer. Most people want to and can work so we need to continue to push for opportunities for our business community. 3. Because they know that I will continue to work hard for the community they also know that I am committed to do whatever benefits Inuvik and its residents. 4. What little free time I have is spent with my grandchildren and going out on the land. Jimmy Kalinek 1. Im running in this election for our people of Inuvik for far too long we have been sit- ting and seeing no change. We need new ideas and people that will face the issues head on to see results. 2. Cost of living education economy pov- erty. We need more opportunities for our people to grow and be successful. 3. Because I care about the people of Inuvik and I want to see change just as bad as they do. The future is now. 4. I like to visit with family and travel the land and waterways. Hunt to provide for my family and others. Inuvik-Boot Lake Desmond Loreen 1. I believe that we should have the best rep- resentation at the table and if someone feels they have something to offer they should come forward. I believe I possess the skills necessary to convey the concerns and questions of the riding. 2. Education child care and housing are is- sues that affect us all. As a community we need to make sure there is support for families and the people who want to live in Inuvik. 3. I hope people see the difference I can make at the Legislative Assembly. I want them to give me a chance to make a change and shift our government into a new age where I will lay it all on the table and ad- vocate for the people who live in the North. 4. Ispendalotoftimewithmywifeanddaugh- ter I make short films and comedy shorts when I can. I enjoy being on a computer designing graphics or playing video games. Sahtu Judy Tutcho 1. I am running for election because I feel I am capable and confident to be of service to the people of the Sahtu. 2. The key issues in my riding are business opportunities creating employment self- sufficiency alcohol and drug treatment centre Mackenzie highway high cost of living youth program and services and caring for our Elders. 3. Voters should vote for me because my resi- dency is in the Sahtu fluent in the North Slavey Language extensive rounded work experience in the private sector. 4. I really do not have any free time I fold my brochures make telephone calls to vot- ers agencies organizations and businesses to make an appointment to meet with me and preparing and planning for my next trip to one of the Sahtu communities. Yvonne Dolittle 1. I am a committed honest open commu- nicator who listens to people and makes responsible decisions for the better of all people water land and animals I intend to ensure that Sahtu needs are understood by my colleagues and help them understand thatstrongSahtucanbenefitthesocialeco- nomic and cultural well being and prosper- ity of the whole NWT. 2. Roads and transportation infrastructure wellness and social issues such as hous- ing responsible development of our natu- ral resources and building a vibrant diverse economy. 3. I am a team-builder and a strong voice for positive change in our government. My ex- perience working with leaders youth and communities has prepared me to help align Sahtu priorities and come together to speak withonevoiceforallpeopleintheSahtu.The NWT is only as strong as each of its regions. You can count on my heart energy and ex- periencetouniteandbuildastrongerNorth. 4. Coach soccer and traditional games hunt and spend time on the land with my family. Deh Cho Ronald Bonnetrouge 1. I felt the timing was right to run for territo- rial politics.Residents were concerned with having representation that is accountable reliable and responsible to their needs. 2. OneofthekeyissuesistheDehChoProcess negotiations. It is in everyones vested inter- esttoreachafinaldealthatissatisfactoryto the people of the Deh Cho. This will prove beneficial economically to not only the Deh Cho people but also for the whole of the ter- ritory. Another key issue is to address the youth population as they face tough times and more so than any other age group in findingemploymenttrainingopportunities andstabilitywithinacommunity.Oneother key issue is the establishment of a First Na- tions Spiritual Healing and Rehabilitation Centre. This is a must-have for the North- west Territories. 3. I am strong-willed - sobriety going on 10 years - and am passionate about addressing issues that are of concern to the residents of my riding. 4. First and foremost are my five beautiful grandchildren that keep me on my toes and the lasting memories to be cherished. Hay River South Jane Groenwegen incumbent 1. ImrunningagainbecauseIhavealongstand- ingrelationshipwiththeconstituentsofHay River South and many asked if I would run again. I want to invest the experience and abilities I have gained as MLA back into my community again. 2. Supportforeducationcostoflivingcontin- uedandexpandinghealthandsocialservice programsandservicesupportforourecon- omythroughthingslikedredgingcontinued support for the renewable resource sector biomassandgreenenergyequippingpeople with the tools to affect their cost of living. 3. I vote for me is a vote for experience and a vote for a person who has proven to be visibleandactiveinthecommunityveryap- proachable and responsive to the concerns and issues of my constituents. I have a very diverse background which makes it easy for me to quickly understand issues. 4. IdonthavealotoffreetimebutwhenIdo I like to spend time with my family my five grandchildrenwhoallliveinHayRivernow. Wally Schumann 1. I am grateful to have been able to raise a family and grow a business in what was once one of the most exciting communities for economic growth in the North. Sadly economic decline and social stagnation is hurting our businesses families elders and youth. I want to lead Hay River back on the road to prosperity. 2. Businesses and families are struggling to get ahead. We need to jump-start economic growth initiatives revamp the shipping sector and raise the federal tax exemp- tion to bring more business better jobs more residents and top-notch services into the region. 3. I have strong leadership experience as Past President of the Hay River Mtis Govern- mentCouncilastrongbusinessbackground as owner of Poison Graphics and a proven record of supporting educational cultural health sport and recreational initiatives in my community. 4. Im a bit of a workaholic so I dont have much free time. When Im not working though I like jet boating and spending time with my family at our cabin. Hay River North R.J. Simpson 1. Iamrunning because Irecognize ourtowns potential and I want to help us live up to it. 2. The most common concerns I hear from residents are the lack of economic oppor- tunities the lack of rental housing and the cost of living. The only ways to resolve these problems are by growing our econ- omy and population to spur development and competition. We also have to foster economic innovation by promoting new industries such as biomass manufactur- ing and agriculture. 3. As a lifelong resident of Hay River I know our towns potential and its challenges. Along with my legal background I will bring new energy a fresh perspective a spirit of cooperation to the Legisla- ture and work tirelessly to make your voices heard. Nahendeh Shane Thompson 1. First off I am not running for the posi- tion but in my opinion I am applying for the position of Member of the Legislative Assembly for the Nahendeh riding. Like most jobs worth having you need to apply for the job and that is what I am doing. I want the job of representing all the people of the Nahendeh for the next four years. 2. For the past four months my team and I have been talking to people from across the region about their issues. The issues that matter to me and the voters are health education youth homes community and the Dehcho Process and Fort Liard Com- prehensive Land Claim Agreement topics are discussed in more detail on Thompsons election Facebook page. 3. Voting for me you will get integrity hon- esty and experience. With over 23 years as a public servant working with First Nations governments I have a passion for government accountability. 4. Spending time with my family children and grandchildren and friends to ener- gize myself for the next day. Kevin Menicoche incumbent 1. The voters of Nahendeh are very happy with my work and encourage me to represent them again in the 18th Assembly. My 12 years of experience will benefit the riding. 2. Having the Dehcho process moved to the AIP stage will ensure certainty and allow our communities to benefit from those that want to use our lands. Transporta- tion infrastructure is critical we must have great roads and airports. 3. I havealwaysbeenapproachableagoodlistener andensureyourconcernsarefollowedupon. 4. When free time is available I love spending time with my spouse and step daughter. Rosemary Gill 1. Im running because I want to be part of the positive change I know the residents of Nahendeh are looking for. I believe a MLA assumes a position of trust ser- vice and accountability. I am driven by a strong sense of personal and social re- sponsibility and have a proven record of getting things done. 2. Ive spent time travelling the region and have become aware of the issues facing this region. Insufficient housing low lit- eracy levels lack of infrastructure.and economic development to name a few. 3. My background includes post secondary studies in education and aboriginal gov- ernance. The majority of my work experi- ence has been in education and manage- ment. This work experience has taught me the importance of strong leadership fiscal responsibility and working collab- oratively to achieve a common goal. Im an educated Dene woman who has has grown up in this region therefore know the people the issues and challenges. I also speak Dene Zhatie. Dennis Nelner 1. Its the right time in my life where I can take my career in public service to the next level. My wife is pursuing a culinary arts profession my children are mature enough to be more independent. 2. We are in an unsettled area therefore there is less certainty towards resource development and perceived benefits such as employment and training. We need to bring clarity to the process some form of closure and begin the implementation process. I remember very clearly the 21 Common Ground Principles presented by Peter Russell which preceded the Dehcho process in 1999. 3. Did I mention I was committed I have a proven track record recently working with teachers principals and district education authority in Fort Simpson to re-introduce shop class in the high school. Also with the DEA I invested over 100 hours into re- writing the DEA policy handbook. 4. Spend time with my family and close friends work on projects and hobbies. I also like to watch some late night TV or listen to music oldies from my era and some new stuff as well. Dneze Nakehko 1. Its time for change in leadership at the territorial level. Nahendeh means Our Land because of devolution the upcom- ing 18th Legislative Assembly will have more power and authority on decisions over our land and resources. We need leadership that will be a strong voice for the land and the people. 2. Outstanding Treaty Rights and Responsi- bilities through the Dehcho Process and the Liard Land Claim and self-government negotiations infrastructure - roads homes and energy - healthcare and education. Candidates for MLA hit the home stretch Wednesday November 18 2015 17 3. Im a proud member of the Ldl Kue First Na- tion with over 13 years of northern media and com- munications experience. I have a broad and extensive knowledge of the issues of the communities region territory nation and inter- nationally. I have built a working network of lead- ers and community people while working in news and broadcasting. I will listen and be the strong voice for the people. 4. Ispendtimewithmyfamily at home and on the land. I coach and officiate basket- ball at the youth and adult levels.IvolunteerwithDene Nahjo and try to learn the Dene drum. Yellowknife South Bob McLeod incumbent premier 1. People want to know that prosperity jobs and prop- erty values are secure for the long-term. I want that too for my family for my neighbours in Yellowknife South and for everyone in theNWT.Ithasbeenaplea- sure to serve the people of Yellowknife South for eight years and the NWT as pre- mier for the past four. We have accomplished a great deal over the past term. 2. The key issues in Yellow- knife South are not dis- similar to those in most ridings.Peopleworryabout the economy. The Con- ference Board of Can- ada has identified eight new mine projects that it feels will come on stream over the next 10 years. We need those exports jobs and resource revenues. As those projects come on stream we need to ensure that territorial residents are the first ones to get the jobs. To do that we need to ensure that they have the necessaryskills.Soweneed tostrengthenoureducation systemworkwithbusiness and labour to build and de- liver the best skills train- ing possible because when global commodity markets rallywearestandingready before an unprecedented opportunity not just for the territories but for the entire country. 3. We have unfinished busi- ness.Devolutionisnotcom- plete. We must accelerate thefulltransferofauthority from the Federal govern- ment and develop a made inthenorthregulatorysys- tem. We need to be in full controlofdecisionsthatwill enable other environmen- tally sustainable resource projectstomoveforwardin a timely manner. I commit that I will work tirelessly to improve the economy and the very real conditions we all live with in Yellowknife South and throughout the NWT should I be fortunate enough to be re-elected on Nov. 23. 4. I golf its a game you dont have to be good at to enjoy. Ihaveawalkingregimesix kilometres per day. I spend as much time as possible watching my two grand- sons participate in a lot of sports and extracurricular activities. Nigitstil Norbert 1. I am Gwichya Gwichin fromTsiigehtchicandcome from a long political legacy of chiefs and public ser- vantswithinmyfamilyhis- tory.Igrewupinspiredand strengthened by the land cultureandactivistsanden- vironmentaliststhatserved to protect it. I am running forelectionprimarilyasan actofIndigenousresistance. Ive gained strength and a powerfulvoicefrommove- ments like Idle No More and I believe it is now my opportunity to bring real change to the Northwest Territories as well. 2. Residents are concerned aboutthehighcostofliving and ways that we can ad- dress skyrocketing prices. People are worried that we needtoseekalternativesto fossilfuelsandfocusonre- newable energy like wind solarandbiomass.Residents also want to have peace of mind that there is an eco- nomicfuturefortheNorth- westTerritoriesasdiamond minescontinuetocloseover the next 20 years. 3. The past four years of gov- ernment have left far too many questions unan- swered with decisions made behind closed doors andlittletonoaccountabil- ity. I stand for an open and transparent alternative where proper consultation goes into every decision we makeinthe18thLegislative Assembly. Voters who are frustrated with the lack of publicinputshouldcasttheir vote with me to bring back opendialogueandconsulta- tiontoourgovernment.My platform is based on three importantconceptsofopen government accountabil- ity community and trans- parency.Ifvotersbelievein thesevitalconceptsIhope I have their vote Nov. 23. 4. I use art as my platform for researching and find- ing solutions to complex and difficult issues such as colonization and resi- dential schools and how education art and culture canhealournationandthe relationshipbetweenindig- enous and non-indigenous communities. Yellowknife Centre Julie Green 1. Its time for a new vision and new energy in Yellow- knife Centre. Its time for change. Yellowknife Cen- tre is located in the heart of the city our territorial capital but theres a gen- eral malaise that under- mines the Yellowknife that I used to know as a vibrant thriving and car- ing community. 2. AtthedoorIveheardabout theneedtorevitalizedown- townbyfindingsolutionsfor thehomelesspopulationby providing them with sup- ported housing. Ive heard about how the high cost of livingespeciallypowerand heat and daycare are mak- ing Yellowknife unafford- ableforone-incomefamilies andseniors.Iveheardthat peoplearenotsatisfiedwith the level of accountability providedbythegovernment and they would like to talk abouttheconsensussystem. I have the skills experi- ence and leadership ability to work as part of a team to solve the problems raised by voters. After I left CBC I was a key participant in thedevelopmentoftheanti- povertystrategyandaction plan. I have business expe- rience too as co-owner of McKenna Funeral Home. I have been on the boards ofYellowknifeHousingAu- thority United Way NWT Northern United Place and theCityofYellowknifesso- cial issues committee. 3. I love to be outdoors espe- cially at my cabin on my snowshoes and skis in the winter in my kayak and swimming in the summer. I am an avid reader and knitter. I made a great In- dian dinner. Great Slave Glen Abernethy incumbent 1. As a lifelong northerner I amcommittedtotheNorth and want to see it grow into a prosperous vibrant cul- turally rich region with op- portunities for anyone who wants them. 2. Over the last two weeks I have visited a large num- ber of homes in the Great Slave riding. The topics that have been repeated themostarementalhealth andaddictionsservicesand therequirementtodevelop resource and implement a comprehensive youth and adult mental health strat- egy limited economic de- velopment and the need to concludelandclaimnegoti- ationsthroughouttheNWT to create opportunities the cost of living throughout the NWT and a need to work with stakeholders to identify and implement initiatives to help reduce those costs. 3. Over the last eight years I have taken action on issues important to resi- dents of the Great Slave riding and the NWT. I could not have been suc- cessful without working closely with all MLAs stakeholders and com- munity members. This means a commitment to listening to all sides of an issue answering questions encouraging understanding and rec- ognizing and respecting differences of opinions. 4. Away from politics I enjoy spending time with my family playing bass guitar in my band The Commit- ted and sailing on Great Slave Lake in my boat Jacmar II. 18 Wednesday November 18 2015 JUSTICE RCMP ROUND-UP install. save install. save keep warm. HeatingcostsintheNWTcontinuetorisebutthesmartswitchtorenewablebiomass orwoodpelletfuelsisquicklychanginghow theNorthheatsitshomesandbusinesses.TheNWTBiomassandEnergyAssociationisheretohelpyoumaketherightchoiceononfuture pelletboilerinstallationshelpyoundpelletsuppliers aswellaspelletboilersuppliersinyourarea.Ourmembersareyourbestresource foradviceonwhatwillbestsuityourneedssodonthestiatetodropthemaline NORTH SLAVE Arctic Green Energy Yellowknife 867-873-2504 ajarcticgreenenergy.ca BULK SALES BAG SALES CMS Central Mechanical Systems Yellowknife 867-873-3003 www.centralmechanicalsystems.com BAG SALES Canadian Tire Yellowknife 867-873-2403 ct453canadiantirecares.com BAG SALES Corothers Home Building Center Yellowknife 867-669-9945 www.homehardware.ca BAG SALES Fitzgeralds Carpeting Yellowknife 867-873-5768 tzcarptheedge.ca BAG SALES Pelleys Pellet Supply Yellowknife 867-445-4870 jkcleaningtheedge.ca BAG SALES FOUNDING MEMBERS OF THE NWT BIOMASS AND ENERGY ASSOCIATION J R Mechanical Ltd. 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Fort Simpson Normand Prevost Normprevostgmail.com 867-695-2738 Canadian Quest Logistics Inuvik Roger Anderson PEng. rogercqlinc.com 867-620-2333 Williams Engineering Yellowknife Elaine Carr ecarrwilliamsengineering.com 867-873-2395 Paul Brothers Nextreme Inc. Yellowknife Eddie Paul eddienextreme.ca 867-873-2522 Arctic Restoration Corp. Inuvik Vince Brown macknorthwestel.net 867-777-5708 NWT BIOMASSEnergy ASSOCIATION Forthelatestupdatesgotowww.nwtbiomassenergy.ca Formoreinformationcontact 867.9203333 or 877.755.5855 AEA.NT.CA Attempted murder charge after Fort Mac hit-and-run By CRAIG GILBERT Police are tight-lipped on how a man charged with at- tempted murder after a hit- and-run was brought into custody last weekend. Two pedestrians were struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Confedera- tion Way and Millennium Drive in Timberlea at about 5 a.m. Nov. 14 according to the RCMP. Onedeclinedmedicaltreat- ment for minor injuries at the scenebuttheothera30-year- old man was brought to the Northern Lights Hospital with life-threatening injuries Friday the 13th airport bomb scare A tense scene played out in Fort McMurray Friday after- noon Nov. 13 as the RCMP bombsquadwascalledtodeal with a suspicious package at the airport. The RCMP Explosive De- viceUnitoutofEdmontonwas called to the Fort McMurray InternationalAirportatabout 440p.m.Theairportwasevac- uatedasaprecautionwhilethe teamworked.OnSaturdaypo- liceannouncedthesuspicious packagehadbeenidentied isolatedandsecuredandthat the airport had reopened. director of law enforcement. The man was found in a wooded area near 32 Street. On Oct. 6 Red Deer RCMP ofcers were following a re- ported stolen vehicle ac- cording to a press release. The vehicle refused to stop at which time the RCMP called off their pursuit. A short time later the vehicle was seen again and followed. The ve- hicle stopped in the area of 32 Street east of Taylor Drive and two people ed into the woods. Police attempted to locate the individuals but were unsuccessful. Investigation into both incidents indicates that the man who ran into the woods on Oct. 6 was likely the same individual who was found deceased according to the provincial government. An autopsy has been conducted and there is no evidence to suggest the 45-year-old man died as a result of any physi- cal injury or direct contact with the police. Thesecondpersonthated into the woods on Oct. 6 has been subsequently identied located and interviewed. ASIRTs investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the events that took place on Oct. 6 to de- termine whether or not any acts or omissions by police ofcers contributed to the death of the man. The paper is alpacad with news Find out whats going on Check out The Northern Journal Find out whats going on and later medevaced to the University of Alberta Hos- pital in Edmonton where he remains in stable but critical condition. A Fort McMurray man 21-year-old Drew Scott was arrested at some point later and charged with attempted murder dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm and fail to stop at the scene of an accident. He was remanded to cus- tody and was scheduled to appear in court in Fort Mc- Murray on Nov. 18. None of the charges against him have been proven in court. Wood Buffalo RCMP would like to thank the pub- lic for their cooperation and patience as the RCMP contin- ues to keep public safety the number one priority. Alberta incident team looks into Red Deer death Albertas Serious Incident Response Team ASIRT has determinedamanfounddead by police in Red Deer on Nov. 11 was likely involved in an incident with the RCMP in the same area on Oct. 6. The ASIRT was assigned to the case by the provinces In light of the fact that ASIRTs investigation is in its early stages no further information will be released until the investigation has been concluded. ASIRTsmandateistoeffec- tivelyindependentlyandob- jectivelyinvestigateincidents involvingAlbertaspolicethat haveresultedinseriousinjury ordeathtoanypersonaswell as serious or sensitive allega- tions of police misconduct. Liquor seized in Tulita Police seized 22 mickeys of booze and drug parapherna- lia at the Tulita Airport Nov. 10.AfemalefromYellowknife was involved in the seizure and charges are pending. Tulitaisarestrictedcommu- nityandthequantityofliquor that a person may possess is strictly limited by the North- west Territories Liquor Act. Bootlegging has been an issue in the community and seizures of alcohol help cur- tail problems that come along with the abuse of alcohol. Should anyone have any information in relation to this investigation or any of the abovementioned cases please contact the Tulita RCMP at 867-588-1111 or contact Crime Stoppers pro- gramat1-800-222-8477nwt- nutips.com click on submit a web tip or text nwtnutips to 274637. Wednesday November 18 2015 19 AN OPEN LETTER FROM THE NWT SENIORS SOCIETY THE QUESTIONS FRAME LAKE YELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus These benefits help seniors stay in the North and I am confident that no- body will be trying to remove or end them. However if someone did I would work with other MLAs and advocate to keep the extended healthcare benefits. I would also lobby Ministers privately to get them onside. K. OReilly I am committed to public health care and will always strive to expand and im- prove that system never to reduce it. At 8 of the population and growing at a rate of 8 per year seniors represent an important segment of the NWT population. EHB now admin- istered through Alberta Blue Cross is a worthwhile program offering great value to seniors helping them live in the North and to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Protecting even expanding EHB is a question of politcal will and if elected I will work towards that goal. GREAT SLAVE YELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy Im not aware that there are any plans to eliminate or reduce Extended Health Benefits for seniors within the NWT. These benefits which dont exist in most jurisdictions are important to help our seniors maintain health and well-being which ulti- mately helps control acute health care costs. If re-elected Im committed to working with members of the 18th Legislative Assembly to ensure that our seniors continue to have access to this important program. C. Clarke Extended health benefits are crucial to our senior and elder population and I will fight for those benefits to be upheld and increased to the fullest extent of my abil- ity. Our senior and elder population is the foundation of our society and they have to be taken care of. These people are often marginalized and it is our duty to ensure that they are taken care of in a fair and equitable manner. Seniors and elders depend on many benefits such as prescription dental vision and hearing coverage. At times our seniors and elders have multiple conditions requiring various extended health benefits. Since many of our seniors and elders live below the poverty line I am most dedicated to be a proponent for them and make sure that they have everything they require to the full living standards of the Canadian population. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard I was committed to this from the last election. I will continue to support Extended Healthcare Benefits for Seniors. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen I have opposed any reduction or cuts to Extended Healthcare Ben- efits for Sseniors in the past and would fight again to protect these benefits. B. Willows I have one global answer for these six questions. I am a senior and member of the Hay River Seniors Association myself as are many of my friends and acquaintances. That said I think we can all recognize that there are a number of good things the govern- ment does for seniors in the North. Notwithstanding that there are gaps. We need to look at more innovative solutions to allow seniors to stay in their homes which will require subsidies for things like snow removal yard care etc. I will commit to protecting the ben- efits we have however the thresholds for financial assistance need to be reviewed . One of the local concerns here is the lack of extended health care facilities. As the statistics suggest this issue will only become more pronounced as we will develop more seniors with health issues related to dementia. KAM LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay As a regular member I fought very hard to ensure that extended health- care benefits remained intact for seniors over the past 4 years I have continued that approach. If elected I will continue to oppose reductions or changes to extended health benefits for seniors. K. Testart It is important that our government ensures that seniors can retire in comfort and dignity in the Northwest Territories. I will oppose any cuts to extended healthcare benefits and advocate for the periodic review of benefits to ensure that are meeting the needs of seniors in our communities. NAHENDEH K. Menicoche This is an excellent program and I will not support any down grading of services to our residents. S. Thompson I would hope there are not any plans to eliminate or reduce Extended Health Benefits for seniors within the NWT from the 17th Assembly. I believe these ben- efits are very important to our seniors to help maintain their health and provide them with the dignity that they deserve. I am committed to working with the other 18 members of the 18th Legislative Assembly and the NWT Senior Society to ensure that our seniors continue to have access to these benefits. RANGE LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny In less than 10 years 20 per cent of all Canadians will be greater than 65 yrs old. This is a staggering statistic in which all levels of government must be ready to deal with. One issue that is always of concern for those entering their retirement years Will my healthcare be there when I get older I can assure you if we want a vibrant healthy Territory we must NOT diminish any of our current commitments to our NWT seniors. In fact we need to make sure that our Extended Healthcare Benefits for NWT seniors mod- ernizes with the times and is of best practice nationally and internationally. C. Cochrane-Johnson Growing up in Yellowknife provided me the privilege of knowing many long term northerners. These people built our communities and many now depend on our extended healthcare benefits. The GNWT reports that income levels for NWT se- niors are lower than they are for seniors nationally This along with our high cost of living means older adults cannot afford any cuts to the current healthcare benefits. Many peo- ple within my riding have also expressed concern for older adults and therefore I would strongly support continuing the current extended health care coverage for NWT seniors. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger There is no plan to cut benefits for seniors. The funding is currently in the budget and I will vote to keep it in the budget. L. Sebert Extended Health Care Benefits must be continued. Several years ago there was an attempt to means test benefits which quite properly received an overwhelmingly negative response. Extended Health Care Benefits provide access to health care for all seniors and additionally encourages seniors to remain in the North a benefit to the overall society. D. Jaque Extended health benefits for seniors are a small cost considering the benefits. Seniors often have limited incomes and too many live in poverty. They deserve to be kept care of in their final years given their considerable contribution to our society. Additionally extended healthcare benefits for those seniors who are financially independent is a means to attract them to continue living in the NWT whereas they might otherwise travel to the south to live where the climate is more benign there are more facilities and better medical health support. Other family members might follow them. That would result in an outmigration of a number of residents further diminishing the NWT population - which is not a good thing. I would fight for extended healthcare benefits for seniors. YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green I support the continuation of the extended healthcare benefits program for seniors. The program is important for supporting the health of northern seniors. Living is more affordable for older adults on a fixed income if they do not have to pay for prescrip- tions dental care glasses and hearing aids. And thats a good thing. Health-related costs are escalating as is the population of seniors. Meanwhile the NWT finance minister says government revenue is not increasing. In the future we may have to consider a discounted insurance premium for these services similar to what seniors pay in Alberta. The NWT Seniors Society invited all 60 MLA candidates to participate in a survey. Our survey had four purposes 1 inform voters 2 hold elected candidates accountable 3 influence public policy and 4 inspire solutions to the many challenges facing old- er adults in the NWT. As the fastest growing population in the NWT and one that is expected to double to about 9000 people in the next 20 years we see our concerns as everyones concerns particularly those of our elected officials. We are grateful to the 22 MLA candidates in the 11 ridings who re- sponded to our survey. We especially commend those four ridings where all candidates responded. Your responses demonstrate your commitment to older adults in the NWT. We learned a lot from the responses on Extended Health Benefits EHB all of the MLAs support continuation on these benefits. They recognize the important role that EHB plays in quality of life. We appreciate the understanding that candidates have of the cost to benefit of the EHB. All candidates support ageing in place and appreciate the importance of older adults living independently and with dignity. They offered a variety of ideas for facilitating ageing in place such as investment in affordable housing options and strengthening supportive services such as homecare. All candidates expressed a commitment to safe and affordable housing and the fuel subsidy. Most advocate innovative energy efficient housing options. Several candidates commented on the safety of older adults and made reference to the persistent problem of abuse. Some raised interesting solutions to these challenges including a comprehensive needs-based seniors strategy or survey tax relief a wrap-around suite of services and integrated elder-youth-childrens facilities. Many MLA candidates agree that equal access to GNWT programs and services by all older adults in the NWT should always be the goal but this doesnt necessarily mean that the same programsservices are offered in all communities. For some equal access means that all older adults should have a way to connect to programsservices. Suggested groups or approaches to connecting older adults to GNWT programsservices include the NWT Seniors Society and other seniors serving organizations Government Services Officers a seniors secretariat or advocate and a wellness navigation program. MLA candidates seem to be advocating a shift in economic policy as the way to reduce cost of living. In particular they suggest localizing community economies import replacement alternative energies energy efficiencies and changes in taxation. Slightly more than half 55 of MLA candidates support the estab- lishment of a seniors advocate for the NWT. Support is premised on the need for a strong voice for older adults. Uncertain or non-support for a seniors advocate is linked to costs added bureaucracy or a belief that an ombudsman or the NWT Seniors Society could fulfill this role. Again the NWT Seniors Society thanks all participating MLA candidates for their commitment and ideas. Well be taking them to the polls on November 23rd. Leon Peterson President NWT Seniors Society 1. How will you ensure the continuation of Extended Healthcare Benefits for NWT Seniors 20 Wednesday November 18 2015 YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong I believe we must continue to support our Extended Healthcare Benefit programs even in the face of tighter budgets. Our Extended Health Benefit programs help address the high cost environment for northern seniors. Eroding these important programs will result in even more seniors leaving the NWT well lose our competiveness with other communities. Above all any changes to the Extended Healthcare Benefits must be done in full consultation with the NWTYK Seniors Societies the public and other key stakeholders. C. Vanthuyne This is a question about financial security for our Seniors. These benefits are one way to support our Seniors in their ability to afford living here in the North. I will work to ensure that the benefits remain and that appropriate reviews are made so infla- tionary costs for medical services are adjusted for accordingly. E. Castillo NWT Seniors need to be provided with the respect they deserve for all their past and continued contributions. No changes should be made to the EHB without full consultation and collaboration with NWT and Community Seniors organizations. I would remain an active participant and advocate for continuation of EHB for NWT seniors. However I have some res- ervations that relate to the permanent residency requirement. Right now it seems if a senior moved to the NWTfrom another jurisdiction 3 months after getting their NWTHealth Care Card they become eligible for the full EHB and some seniors from other jurisdictions are migrating to the NWT only to take quick advantage of the generous benefits. This needs to be reviewed. B. Nind The GNWT sponsors the Extended Health Benefits for Seniors Programfor non- Native and Mtis residents of the NWT 60 years of age and over giving them access to a range of benefits not covered by hospital and medical care insurance. Joint consultation with seniors organizations advocates and GNWT program administrators must be sup- ported. As an MLA I would work with seniors in my constituency and with local and territo- rial senior organizations to ensure that this program is maintained and developed further in a common sense approach as demand increases because of a growing senior population. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod NWT seniors enjoy one of the highest levels of Extended Healthcare Ben- efits. I have in the past and will continue to support the continuation of these services. 2. What will you do to support ageing-in-place FRAME LAKE YELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus Ageing-in-place can be improved by housing subsidies services and more affordable housing and I would advocate for this. I would also work towards infrastructure improvements for existing units. I feel the government needs to support this more than they do seniors need to have homes in a safe community environment be comfortable and maintain a suitable level of independence. K. OReilly Exercise and active living programs can help keep seniors moving and as independent as possible. Effective home and continuing care programs offered through the public health system can also help seniors stay in their own homes and remain inde- pendent. GNWT must ensure there is a full suite of different housing options available that are appropriate to meet the changing needs of people as they age. Avens and its campus concept is a great example of what can be done to provide a range of housing options but we need to provide ongoing funding and meet the growing needs of seniors. GREAT SLAVE YELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy Ageing-in-place has long term benefits for seniors and the GNWT must continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that seniors who wish to continue to live in- dependently and with dignity in the comfort of their own homes can continue to do so. In response the GNWT released Our Elders Our Communities which focuses on supporting ageing in place. If re-elected I will continue to apply the guiding principles of this aging in place strategic framework and continue to work with stakeholders like the NWT Seniors Society and MLAs to move forward on the seven priority areas outlined in framework. C. Clarke Ageing in place is extremely important for the continuation of our cultures and bet- terment of seniors and elders. Having been born and raised in the NWT elders in my family have always been extremely important and integral to me. I was lucky to live with my great grandmother Mary Louis King ne Desjarlais Lockhart and Danny and Doris McQueen. Be- cause of this I have a great realization that the place we are from defines ourselves.As the first Dene architect registered in the NWT I have had the good fortune to be part of the design of seniors and elders housing and long term care facilities. In this capacity I have worked for both the NWT Housing Corporation and the Department of Health and Social Services. In addition to understanding the importance of our seniors and elders continuing their lives in their com- munities from my life experience I have worked in several community consultations through my work as an architect.Affordable housing is key to ageing in place. Furthermore ageing-in-place requires a continuum of care which will ensure that seniors and elders can live in their chosen places for as long as possible. We need to continue to develop home care in our communities which requires a collaborative approach between the NWT Seniors Society regional and local governments the Department of Health and Social Services community Health Care Facilities and the NWT Housing Corporation amongst others. All communities and organizations need to work together to ensure that our seniors and elders can live and flourish in their home com- munities for a long as possible and preferably our entire lives if desired. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard We know that the aging population will need support in many different ways. They will need assistance at home they will need home care we will have to ex- pand our extended care facilities. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen I believe there is a need to increase the number of housing units avail- able for Seniors in each community as well as ensuring adequate access to services such as home care and respite care for Seniors. B. Willows See question 1. KAM LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay I have a solid track record of support for seniors and trying to allow seniors to stay in the NWT. The programs and services need to be here where they are required. I have continued to support the construction and operation of much needed seniors facili- ties around the territory. K. Testart The ability to live in ones own home and community in comfort and dignity is an important goal that our government must strive to achieve. I will prioritize the needs of Northerners and I have made reducing the high cost of living a major part of my plan for the next government. Ageing-in-place must be pursued with a comprehensive approach that involves all levels of government working together to provide essential services that support the needs of our communities. I will work to access new funding from the federal government build strong partnerships with municipal and Aboriginal governments and prioritize new funding for infrastructure and social programs delivered by the GNWT and designed to support the needs of our residents. NAHENDEH S. Thompson I believe ageing in place has long term benefits for seniors for their families their communities and the NWT. I believe by allowing seniors to continue to live independently where possible you are giving the dignity they deserve. Id be willing to work the NWT Seniors Society to their voice and would advocate for legislation. RANGE LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny With wait times in some of our independent housing for seniors at greater than 6 years the concept of aging-in-place takes on a new meaning. Recent reports have some strategic advice but lack on targeted investments. We need to look beyond the bricks and mortar and we need to look at innovative choices for Long Term Care in-home programs that is we need to go beyond the aging-in-place current strategy. We need to be culturally and language appropriate with the right care at the right times with the right place philosophy. C. Cochrane-Johnson Northern people are connected to the land and their communities. Therefore we must support ageing in place as long as possible. The GNWT must ensure the Federal Government provides the promised infrastructure monies for housing prioritize the cost of living provide long-term care support training continue providing public awareness on older adult abuse and promoting healthy ageing ensure our legislation supports ageing in place poli- cies.At a community level we also have a role in supporting aging in place. Visit your neighbour help clear driveways shovel snow off roofs mow lawns and watch over others when their family cannot be there. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger I will support the current initiatives of HSS with Home Care the current Hous- ing initiatives related to seniors housing and home repair ECEs senior fuel subsidy program and MACAs tax rebate program for seniors. L. Sebert The vast majority of aging Canadians wish to remain in their homes as long as pos- sible even as their health changes. I would support programs that assist aging in place including programs that assist retrofitting seniors homes to allow them to remain in their homes. D. Jaque Aging in place ensures a greater quality of life and increases longevity. It is also cheaper than institutional solutions or especially hospitalization. Programs for home modifica- tion and technology enhancement for seniors should be implemented to enhance aging in place. YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green It is important to support programs that focus on seniors needs. The GNWT needs to work with seniors so that they can live in their own home and community safely and in- dependently regardless of their income or ability. I support the development of a multi-party government seniors their families service providers plan to pilot the ageing-in-place concept perhaps atAvens where a range of services already exists. I have talked to several seniors who have had to move away because the services they need dont exist in the North. I would like them to have the choice to stay with their community for the rest of their lives. YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong Seniors should be able to stay in their home if they choose for as long as possible. This means we should seriously consider grant programs to assist seniors with the renovations they need to live in their homes safely with replacing stairs with ramps or stairlifts. Ill also support non-profit organizations who are doing important work like Meals on Wheels. Independent Living Accommodations need to grow to meet demand for this housing type that allows for ageing in place. C. Vanthuyne Its important to me that our Seniors get to maintain their quality of life as long as possible. I will work collaboratively with NWTHC to develop a Seniors Specific home renovation and financing home equity program that will allow seniors to live longer in their own homes putting less burden on the need for more independent living units and long term care living facilities. E. Castillo I would support having more affordable seniors homes in the communities reno- vatingretrofitting existing underused buildings equipped for proper access. Also I believe in partnerships with private businesses and community seniors organizations to utilize existing vacant buildings to reduce the waiting list for units. I would support local programs for caregiv- ing homecare educational preventative programs as well as wellness activities. This will ease seniors being removed from their communities to wait for accommodation in Yellowknife like Aven Manor and allow them to live and stay connected with family relatives and friends in their own communities. I believe a long-term comprehensive action plan is necessary. B. Nind Aging in place is close to my heart as I have a mother whose health has allowed her to continue to live in her home. Not only is it important for the independent senior to remain in their home adding to their well-being independence and happiness but it also saves program dollars and scarce senior care space which would otherwise have to be used. As MLA I would work closely with seniors in my constituency and local and territorial senior organizations to ensure that the GNWT promotes and supports by all common sense means aging in place. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod In the next Assembly I will commit to establish a working committee to study new approaches to support aging-in-place while examining interagency and intergovern- mental cooperation in providing services to our seniors as part of a new NWT Seniors Strategy. Examples that would be included in the terms of reference include adopt smart home technologies for remotely monitoring essential systems within the home to better respond anhancing collaboration within government agencies health housing social services etc. to develop an integrated network for seniors and assisting community governments in adopting principles and best practices for providing integrative services to seniors that address safety medical and socialization needs their caregivers and their families. 3. What commitment would you make to ensure seniors living in their own homes have safe housing adequate subsidies for fuel and are provided with affordable housing options FRAME LAKE YELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus I would support assisted living strategies and maintaining services to se- niors. I believe these are very important issues and the programs currently offered to se- niors needs to be improved. Im hearing that wait times are too long and some programs are difficult to access. K. OReilly New housing must be built to ensure energy efficiency and accessibility. Ex- isting housing stock should be well maintained for safety comfort and to reduce energy costs. An interesting option for safe independent housing might be found in the tiny home movement whereby individuals live independently in small houses that are clustered in a community that can efficiently provide centralized services such as meals housekeeping and laundry. Such close communities could also help prevent elder abuse. Fuel subsidies must apply equally to heating using biomass. Programs to shift energy from expensive non-renewable sources to more economic alternatives should be pursued. This is a paid advertisement sponsored by the NWT Seniors Society. Wednesday November 18 2015 21 GREAT SLAVE YELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy Adequate housing is essential for all residents of the NWT including seniors. If re-elected I commit to working with the NWT Seniors Society to identify specific areas of con- cern so that they can be addressed individually with the appropriate departments. In addition I commit to working with ECE to ensure that subsidies such as the fuel subsidy for seniors are indexed appropriately to address increasing cost of goods and services within the NWT. C. Clarke As I have worked on the design and implementation of many housing and living options for seniors and elders I am excited to be able to continue my work in the capacity of a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Luckily we have many housing options for our seniors and elders and I look forward to being able to progress these options. Although some of the options I have designed and worked on have security integration many of our seniors and elders living in their independent dwellings many not. Far too often I have heard of elder abuse occur- ring with family and other members of various communities. This abuse needs to be dealt with through education of the community and collaboration with various organizations from the NWT Seniors Society RCMP community groups local governments and the GNWT. Seniors and elders are our priority and we need to make sure they have safe and secure places to live. This also extends to neglect which is unfortunately all too real.As MLA I would pursue the integration of elders and youth that would begin at daycare. In this capacity I would like to see daycare for children at senior and elder centres and have this integration continue into primary and second- ary school. I believe that this integration between the two generations would give us a more caring and respectful youth and people of the future as well as helping pass on our traditions. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard I know in Hay River we need more options for seniors housing. We need housing that will provide for seniors that require only some assistance. We have a lot of seniors in their homes but the only option after that is full extended care. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen We need to continue to plan ahead for the expansion of housing options and sustainability of seniors services in view of current and forecasted demand. B. Willows See question 1. KAM LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay I would have the same commitment to seniors that I have always had. We have great programs and services in the NWT but we should always be looking for ways to augment these and continue to invest in facilities for seniors. K. Testart I will work to access new funding promised by the new Government of Canada to construct affordable seniors housing spaces in Yellowknife and other communities. Our govern- ment has to step up and take action to invest in the Avens community and build more spaces for seniors to enjoy retirement in their community. My plan also calls for addition funding for energy efficient retrofits to homes and a plan to lower the cost of power by investing in clean energy solu- tions. These measures will result in a more affordable NWT that can be enjoyed by all residents. NAHENDEH K. Menicoche I strongly believe that we must return to an Elders and Seniors programming that the NWT Housing Corporation covers the cost. S. Thompson I will commit to working with the other 18 members of the 18th LegislativeAssem- bly and with the NWT Seniors Society to identify areas of concern so that they can be addressed with the appropriate Departments. RANGE LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny This requires a multi-prong approach. First we need to make sure we have the right amount of adequate and affordable independent housing options in all of our 33 NWT com- munities. If government is unable to commit to this task then we need to form partnerships with community stakeholders to increase our independent housing option stock. Secondly we need to make sure we have the proper wrap around services for our seniors needs that is we need an easy to access plain language culturally appropriate one stop shop for all seniors needs such as fuel subsidies home repair subsidies maintenance programs home care meal care and health and safety programs. C. Cochrane-Johnson I address some of this within my answer on question 2 but I would also support safe communities workshops for both support employees and all community mem- bers comprehensive training for front-line staff a review of the income support policies with best practice research nationally and internationally. In general we must build a renewed focus on age-friendly communities. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger See response to question 2 above. L. Sebert I support the continuance of programs that provide subsidies for fuel and municipal tax relief for seniors. Social housing for seniors must be safe affordable and built to allow aging in place. D. Jaque Affordable housing for seniors that has ground level access and is safely situated must be available in every community. I would pursue seniors housing program enhancement. YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green Many seniors want to stay in their homes but face obstacles such as the need for modifications to their homes and better resources in the community to support them to stay in them. I would like to see the GNWT work on supporting an age-friendly com- munity program. To help seniors stay in their homes I think we need to support seniors by providing rebates for home modifications such as better lighting additional railings and grab bars. This program could be administrated similar to the energy smart program. I also support enhancing the resources for seniors in the community by supporting preventative health programs. YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong Seniors need to feel safe. Its not right to have seniors laying awake wonder- ing if someone is going to break into their homes. I believe its time to seriously consider a program to subsidize security systems for seniors. Many of these programs are con- nected to first responders and could assist in the event of a fall or other injury in the home. In addition to increased safety personal security systems can also lower home insurance and therefore reduce our high cost environment and allow more seniors to stay in the NWT if they choose. C. Vanthuyne In addition to my answer above regarding Seniors Specific home reno- vations I will also work to provide quality home care support that recognizes the full range of services that seniors need in order to stay in their own homes longer. E. Castillo Most of our seniors can barely afford the cost of their homes including the maintenance and additions needed like railings and ramps as they and their homes age. Moreover seniors are becoming more vulnerable to predators including lenders who want to rob them of their home equitysavings and bury them in debt. We need to pursue a housing-health-education partnership program to help seniors remain healthy and inde- pendent for as long as possible. I would support a coordinated strategypolicy approach to ensure affordability regular housing inspections and modifications for safety and security inclusive of health e.g. regular homecare and specific education programs and see to adequate provision of fuel transportation and prescription subsidies. B. Nind Eleven percent of our population are seniors and this is increasing each year. As MLA I would support a comprehensive NWT Seniors Survey to measure factors and issues such as housing health relationships activities finances etc. This would allow detailed analysis to be put alongside issues raised by organizations individuals and advocates to subsequently have GNWT adjust program delivery to senior living realities. As well I would support a living NWT inventory of senior housing to be done each year involving the GNWT and community governments and a continuing active program to ensure that safety and affordability are maintained. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod Over time services provided for seniors have evolved on an ad hoc basis. I believe it is time for the Government to take a serious look at our programs to determine the degree that they address the full spectrum of physical and social needs and work towards putting in place a comprehensive strategy for supports that that may be needed. The outcome of this work will be a NWT Seniors Strategy that addresses interagency collaboration the need for integrative policies and programs encompassing the housing social medical and educational needs of seniors and their caregivers. 4. What measures will you take to enable equal access for all NWT seniors to GNWT programs and services FRAME LAKE YELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus We must take action to ensure equal access to all NWT seniors. Unless it has recently been done I would want to see the current programs undergo a complete review to assess if they are serving the needs of seniors and then develop a strategic plan to improve services. K. OReilly Making public programs and services equally available to all northerners across all communities is difficult and expensive but should be a fundamental goal of the Legislative Assembly. I share that goal. Achieving that goal is a matter of providing a clear statement of political intent along with appropriate resources to make it happen. It also depends on an accountability system based on an accurate assessment of results and public reporting. Meaningful consultation with affected groups including seniors is key to the proper evaluation of the effectiveness of programs and services. GREAT SLAVE YELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy If re-elected I commit to working with the NWT Seniors Society to identify areas where seniors may be experiencing difficulty accessing GNWT pro- grams and services and bringing those to the 18th Legislative Assembly for action and answers. C. Clarke I think that Government Services Officers within the communities can be more engaged and work with seniors. Although we have many great people working with our seniors and elders a single point of contact within their respective communities is paramount. We also need to ensure that we develop a strategy to integrate govern- ment and community support with seniors and elders needs. Collaboration between governments and community organizations is key to ensure seniors and elders can access programs and services. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard Equal access is difficult in all our 33 communities It is difficult and costly to have the same service as in Yellowknife. If equal access is referring to the elimination of income testing I do not think that with the growth in the seniors over the next few years that we can remove income testing. We need to support our seniors where we can. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen I support the startup of an office providing a Seniors Advocate to work on behalf of all seniors in accessing GNWT services. B. Willows See question 1. KAM LAKEYELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay Equal access should always be a goal we strive toward. We must continue to provide as many of these programs and services territory wide as we can. K. Testart I will pilot a Wellness Navigator Program that serves as a single point of en- try for all residents in need of support from multiple programs and agencies. This would serve seniors and non-seniors alike and help residents cut through the red tape and get the help they need from government programs. NAHENDEH K. Menicoche No response. S. Thompson I will commit to working with the NWT Seniors Society to identify areas of concerns and work with the appropriate department to ensure seniors can access GNWT programs and service. RANGE LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny See response to question 3. C. Cochrane-Johnson I will support community consultation with all organizations providing older adult support within all GNWT legislative reviews and policy imple- mentation practices supporting this population continued support for community or- ganizations providing older adult support services cross-cultural orientation for all communityregional-based Health and Social Service personnel language translation services electronic medical record usage streamlined prescription practices out-of- territory coverage of medication annual quality of service reviews and a review of the medical travel policies. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger For the most part I believe that access currently exists and that we have the best seniors programs and benefits in the country. However the GNWT initiative to put Government Service Officers in all the small communities has been very successful and well received by all including seniors. L. Sebert All GNWT programs for seniors must be accessible to seniors throughout the Northwest Territories and we must ensure that communities outside of Yellowknife have appropriate programs and resources for seniors. D. Jaque Education directed at seniors is required plus working through health care agencies and connecting directly with active seniors groups in order that all seniors benefit from available programs. I would commit to supporting all such programs. This is a paid advertisement sponsored by the NWT Seniors Society. 22 Wednesday November 18 2015 YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green Im not sure that equal access is possible if that means the same programs and services for all seniors in all 33 communities. A better goal might be equitable ac- cess where the government provides seniors with what they need to access the same benefits. An expansion of the single window government service centres for example may be useful to helping seniors and others access programs and services. YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong Its important to be able to receive services in the language of your choice. Because folks are more comfortable receiving a service in their own language lan- guage services build trust dignity and fairness. For elders in our communities proper language translation is key to access programs and services like the Senior Home Heating Subsidy. Many forms and online services are available in English only unless by special request and instead should be automatically available in all 11 official lan- guages of the NWT. C. Vanthuyne Its very important that all residents of the north have fair and equal access to GNWT programs and services especially our Seniors. In collaboration with key stake- holders I would support conducting a review of the quality of services currently provided to Seniors and work to make effective improvements based on the recommendations that would come from the review. E. Castillo Basically if the seniors do not know what programs and services are available for them then they cannot access them. By working with NWT and Community Senior orga- nizations I want to ensure informationcommunication of the programs and services that our seniors can equally avail themselves to access are properly provided and distributed. Regular informationcommunication sessions can and should be held for the seniors throughout the territories including a readily accessible main online information and help service. B. Nind As MLA I would support setting up a formal Seniors Secretariat Office that would act as a formal storefront for all senior programs. This would provide for compre- hensive distribution of program materials for a seniors as well as provide personal assis- tance for all issues affecting seniors thus reducing confusion and frustration with those we should respect the most. I would also work to ensure that seniors have physical access and service to all facilities and offices that are of a public nature. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod The NWT Seniors Strategy will recognize that within communities the needs of individual seniors differ and that the needs of individuals change as they age. Programs and services must be flexible and focus on the individual providing choices that are ap- propriate to their needs and capabilities. 5. What actions will you take to reduce living costs throughout the NWT FRAME LAKEYELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus The cost of living can be reduced by making housing more affordable pro- moting alternative energy sources and energy conservation and finding ways to reduce taxes and service fees. K. OReilly GNWT should work with Yukon and Nunavut to ensure that the new federal government increases and indexes the Northern Residents Tax Deductions. Investment in economic development should be focused on lowering costs through local and sustain- able activities that decrease imports and create jobs food production fishing forestry renewable energy building and maintaining appropriate housing. Renewable energy pro- duction should be combined with housing retrofits using a revolving fund. Homeowners or condos pay back the costs of the retrofit through their energy savings. Co-operatives and community-owned enterprises also offer solutions. Employers should also be encour- aged to provide a living wage to employees. GREAT SLAVEYELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy Control costs of power through investments in infrastructure solar wind etc.explore tax options to reduce the cost of running and operating small local business- es enhance and streamline rebate programs to install wood stoves more efficient fur- naces solar panels better insulation etc for commercial and residential users work with the Federal Government to update the Northern Resident Tax Deduction work with the Federal Government to improve the Nutrition North program for our isolated communities enhance support for community gardens and other food productions opportunities work with industry local governments business and other interested stakeholders to develop a plan to address homelessness in the NWT. C. Clarke We need to be more self-sufficient as Northerners to reduce the cost of living in the NWT. Currently we depend on almost all our resources from the south with the exception of traditional foods that are continuously depleting. One major way that we can reduce the cost of living is by producing our own food. We need to implement agriculture by growing our own vegetables and producing our own livestock. Many places are doing this now with such things as community gardens or herding reindeer. We need to increase these pursuits with sustainable fisheries logging and other industries that we are currently not realizing the ad- vantages of. Also we need to engage in alternate sources of energy and diversify our energy resources. In most communities we rely on fuel as a single source of heat and electricity. By researching and implementing alternative forms of energy such as wind tides geothermal and solar amongst others we can ensure a continuous and cheaper source of power. This diversification of energy will ensure lower prices. This is especially true as we see now when we have low waters for powering hydro-turbines or the altering cost of oil. These types of un- expected events drive up the cost of power and our living expenses in the Territories. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard I believe one of the first areas is the taxation. Increase the northern living allowance. Give all northerners back their payroll taxes. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen Increased funding toArctic EnergyAlliance would assist in providing wood andor pellet stoves to subsidize heating costs and reduce the cost of living for NWT seniors. B. Willows See question 1. KAM LAKEYELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay We must continue to push the federal government on increasing northern residents tax deduction. We also must look at connecting the Northsouth hydro grids with a long term plan to tie these into the south AlbertaSaskatchewan. We also must continue to invest in alternative energy sources. K. Testart Reducing the cost of living is a key part of my platform. I will enhance funding for energy efficiency incentives and alternate energy technologies available to homeowners. These programs will be expanded to cover more of the cost to homeowners for the installation of appliances and energy systems lowering the cost of power over time and reducing carbon emissions. I will reduce the cost of power by leveraging hydro generated electricity with clean energy generation to offset low water levels and maximize hydro efficiency. I will close the funding gap for our communities by investing an additional 25 million over 4 years in municipal infrastructure. This investment will create jobs and support healthy well-main- tained and vibrant communities that will encourage people to come and stay in the North. NAHENDEH K. Menicoche The seniors fuel subsidy has to be improved so that we can assist the seniors for a longer period. S. Thompson Improve the Nutrition North program so that it will benefit all our semi isolated and isolated communities. Look at who supplies the foods for this program. Support the idea of development of year round community gardens and other food production opportunities such as chickens fish etc. Reinstate rebate programs for home owners to make it more energy ef- ficient such as LED lights appliances windows and better insulation.Reinstate rebate programs to install more efficient furnaces pellet stoves. Control the costs of power - more efficient op- erations of equipment and investments in infrastructure such as geo-thermal that would reduce costs and the need to rely on fossil fuel. Review the Northern Resident Tax Deduction and work with the Government of Canada to realign it with the cost of living. RANGE LAKEYELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny When looking at the high cost of living one has to look at the average dispos- able income variance across the North the differences in living costs depending on where you live shelter options and affordability your heatingelectricity and water costs your food costs and more importantly the inequalities between large market and small communities. There are many ways we can tackle this issue. Here is a three step approach that will have a direct impact. i. The high cost of living affects all northerners this is a given. In order to deal with this issue the next government can no longer ignore their responsibility. First we need to embrace and support our Federal governments offering of increasing our Northern Resident Tax deduc- tion to the level indicated and to deal with the uniqueness of disparity incomes. ii. Secondly we need to lower our cost of food. This could be achieved by providing more support for NWT food networks NWT Farmers Associations community collective gardens and greenhouse invest- ments. iii. Finally we need to reduce our cost of energy and use of fossil fuels. This can only be achieved by the willingness of an elected cabinet and Premier committed to action and less on rhetoric. If elected and if being able to influence cabinet decision making we need to do the following to bring down our cost per kilowatt hour. 1. Heat re-capture technology at our thermal diesel generator production this will allow to use 60-70 of the heat lost up the stove pipe. This heat can be used for various sources via a utili-door system to either heat community gardens or buildings. 2. Need more energy efficiency investments such as major home retro-fit programs 3. Need more targeted incentives to offset the capitalization costs of alternative energy invest- ments for both resident and business. 4. The business of power production and distribution requires deep pockets and a brain trust to match unfortunately we suffer from both. Therefore we need to consider selling a large portion of our Northwest Territories Power Corporation to suitable partners who would be able to commit money and knowledge to our current dire situa- tion. This one time sale would take what is now a liability to an asset situation thereby allowing one time investments of practical alternate energy solutions such as hydro wind solar and biomass in our various communities. C. Cochrane-Johnson Cost of living is the number one issue raised within my riding. Ideas have ranged from alternative energy usage capping electrical rates expansion of pellet stove usage natural gas lines nuclear power and running a line from Taltson Hydro. Other ideas have included the GNWT opening more lease land so that people can choose between leas- ing property and owning lowering the toll on the bridge supporting local food production and investment in renewable resources such as fisheries. I will bring the suggestions from my riding to the table and work with other MLAs to find the best solution for the NWT. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger Lowering the cost of energy is the main way to lower the cost of living. This means reducing our reliance on diesel by switching to cheaper cleaner renewables like solar and wind. This is an initiative that I will put forward as a priority for the 18th assembly. L. Sebert The new federal government should increase the Northern Residents Allowance as soon as possible and allowance should be indexed to inflation as was promised in the recent federal election. Power rates are already too high and represent a financial burden for seniors on modest incomes. Efficiencies must be found to reduce these costs. D. Jaque Reducing the cost of living in the NWT is a huge challenge one that will continue to get more onerous. The sooner measures are taken the better. The high cost of food is a major contributing factor to the high cost of living. That can be alleviated somewhat by promoting com- munity-based agriculture as a major component of strengthening local economies which must be promoted and enhanced. Locally grown food is healthier tastes better and creates jobs. Locally grown food must involve the use of greenhouses in spring and fall which will require investing in research and development of better greenhouse technology as well as instruction on how to grow greenhouse crops. The cost of electricity must be reduced by replacing all diesel generators with solid state generators which are 30 more efficient and also investing in solar and wind energy to complement and reduce the use requirement of the new generators. YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green This is an issue for residents of all ages. I am championing low-cost loans from government that would enable homeowners to retrofit homes to improve their efficiency and to install renewable resources alternatives to home heating fuel and diesel power such as biomass and solar. YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong An estimated 60 of Yellowknife homes are rated below EnerGuide 70 which means many Yellowknife homes are inefficient and expensive to heat. Energy retrofits such as higher-rated wall and ceiling insulation windowsdoors or wood heating can mean large savings in utility bills especially in winter. We have an offer of low-interest loans for homeowners to do energy retrofits. Low interest loans up to 20000 could be repaid with monthly fuel savings. If elected Ill make territorial amendments to legislation to allow for low-interest loans for heat a top and immediate priority. We cant afford to miss any more of these opportunities. C. Vanthuyne Here are some ways to reduce the cost of living in the north support the Loans for Heat program from the City of Yellowknife. This will allow for energy efficient renovations that will reduce fuel costs significantly. Support the Yellowknife Farmers Market local food charter and have it passed on a territorial level. This allows for more healthy affordable food to be produced and shared locally. Support a variety of housing options and choices including tiny homes and secondary suites that will fit a variety of income levels. E. Castillo Affordability is a primary issue in the NWT that not only affects seniors. However high costs especially affect seniors who are most vulnerable because of fixed incomes that are not adjusted to the northern cost of living. Apart from ensuring housing and maintenance costs remain affordable including fuel and home modification subsi- dies incentives for green energy efficient home retrofits that will realize eventual savings should be instituted. In addition to ensuring the continuation of EHB I would work with other governments e.g. Canada municipal and businesses for incentives including tax relief such as removal of 20 of net income requirement under the Northern Resident Deduction Claim and also property tax cap and purchase service discounts. This is a paid advertisement sponsored by the NWT Seniors Society. Wednesday November 18 2015 23 B. Nind The cost of living goes to the core of how our economy is structured as well as a nancial measure of our isolation. I have stated in the platform that I would support taking action on this by investing in sustainable renewable energy agriculture and for- est and lake food harvesting consider the development of rent control legislation and to work collaboratively with the ofce of the Member of Parliament to increase the northern resident deduction. We also must be very stringent in our nancial oversight to ensure that we are getting best bang for the dollar to maximize program service delivery. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod Seniors on xed incomes are the most vulnerable to changes in the cost of living. I will support capital investments that reduce costs of transportation energy and housing. The NWT Seniors Strategy will support community action plans that encourage and support volunteers in providing locally grown or harvested foods sh produce and rewood. 6. Do you support a Seniors Advocate for the NWT Why or why not FRAME LAKE YELLOWKNIFE R. Erasmus Yes I support a Seniors Advocate. The seniors in the north have seen tre- mendous change their experience and knowledge is invaluable for the future of the north and northerners. The Advocate could be responsible for monitoring seniors services promoting awareness of seniors issues and supports and identify solutions and make recommendations to government about system-wide issues facing seniors. The Advocate could issue regular reports conducts surveys and gather feedback from seniors stake- holders and the public. K. OReilly Yes I support the establishment of a Seniors Advocate. This could be a separate person or a specied function of a NWT Ombudsperson a position I have ad- vocated for since I was a member of Yellowknife City Council. The Ombudsperson could be required to have an appropriate segment of hisher time mandated to address seniors issues and to promote the work that can be done. However the function is to be carried out there should also regular consultation with the NWT Seniors Society to ensure proper priorities are being set. GREAT SLAVE YELLOWKNIFE G. Abernethy I believe the best advocates for seniors are seniors themselves. The NWT Seniors Society as well as local seniors societies have been very active in bring- ing forward issues affecting seniors across the NWT. In light of tight scal realities faced by the 18th Legislative Assembly I dont support the creation of a Seniors Advocate within the GNWT public service at this time. Instead I recommend that the NWT Se- niors Society ensure that regular meetings are scheduled with the Minister Responsible for Seniors in the 18th Legislative Assembly so that they can regularly update the Minis- ter and government on areas of concern for seniors and work together on meaningful solutions. C. Clarke I do support an advocate for seniors and elders in the NWT. Seniors and elders are an integral part of our culture and society and they deserve a strong voice. HAY RIVER NORTH R. Bouchard I believe that through the 19 MLAs and the NWT Seniors society most is- sues can be managed. Most seniors I have been working with are not scared to tell their MLA what they see is wrong with the GNWT system. I know that there are applications or situations that require more support. I have been a supporter of an Ombudsman a person to deal with breakdowns in our government system. HAY RIVER SOUTH J. Groenewegen Yes I support a Seniors Advocate Ombusdman ofce being estab- lished to support the needs of all NWT seniors. B. Willows I am in support of an advocate for seniors in the NWT. KAM LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Ramsay I would commit to explore the viability of a seniors advocate position. K. Testart Yes seniors and Indigenous Elders are important members of our communi- ties and have different needs than other residents of the Northwest Territories. A seniors advocate who reports to the legislative assembly would serve as a strong voice for our seniors and play a role in ensuring that legislation properly addresses the needs and concerns of seniors. NAHENDEH K. Menicoche A senior advocate will be difcult ofce to staff given our scal framework. However I will work to ensure that we can re-prole an existing job in the department of health dedicated to the needs of our elders and seniors. S. Thompson I believe the NWT Seniors Society is the best advocate for the seniors. As well I believe there are a number of community based senior groups that bring forth their issues to their respect MLAs. Therefore why would you want to add another layer to the system RANGE LAKE YELLOWKNIFE D. Dolynny I believe the NWT Seniors Society by their own right perform advocacy for the residents they represent. However the question asks for another layer of advocacy. I believe this concept is worthy of discussion and I would be supportive to have such dialogue. C. Cochrane-Johnson Currently the GNWT has no position dedicated solely towards advocating for the rights of older adults and ensuring they have access to government supports. All marginalized groups including older adults need an advocate. Each com- munity agency tries to provide this within a limited capacity and with little to no funding. In the 17th legislature the need for an Ombudsmans ofce was put forward but denied by cabinet. An Ombudsman is an independent ofcer of the Legislature who investigates complaints from the public about GNWT services recommending improvements for gov- ernance and resolving individual issues. I would support reviewing this again. THEBACHA M. Miltenberger I do not support such a position. We are a small very accessible juris- diction and our consensus system makes MLAs very effective advocates for their con- stituents. Resources are scarce and another oversight ofce in YK is not the best use of those scarce resources. L. Sebert Seniors are an ever growing group in our society. In 2014 the Province of British Columbia established the Ofce of Seniors Advocate to deal with such issues as health and personal care income support and housing. We should follow this example. D. Jaque Yes. A seniors advocate in the NWT is needed in general to acknowledge and publicize the extent that many seniors live in poverty or lack proper support services and in particular because of the extent of abuse against seniors and in particular also because of the number of assaults against older women. YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE J. Green A substantial amount of work has already been done to create an ombudsman position for the NWT. Its a piece of unnished business from the 17th Assembly. I think the ombudsman could provide services to seniors as part of hisher mandate. A position that has a broader mandate may be more likely to be funded in these tight economic times. YELLOWKNIFE NORTH D. Wong Yes. A seniors advocate is a great idea and Im all in because there are several key gaps this position could address. A seniors advocate could monitor seniors services promote awareness and work collaboratively with seniors families policy makers ser- vice providers and others to identify systemic issues that affect seniors and make recom- mendations to the territorial government. It works like this in British Columbia and it can work here too. C. Vanthuyne I must admit Im not sure what this question entails but if it means that there ought to be an Ombudsman of sorts to represent the voice for seniors on important issues than I will say two things 1 that as an elected ofcial representing the people of the North I would hope that any MLA would consider themselves to be exactly that and do Seniors proud in representing them on all territorial issues. 2 that said if seniors feel that having a specic Advocate that can advance their concerns faster and more effectively then I would certainly be in support and would look forward to working with that person on advancing seniors issues. E. Castillo Yes. An independent seniors advocate will provide a main voice for all of the NWT seniors concerns issues and needs. This would include information and referrals to seniors their families and caregivers regarding government funded seniors health continuing care and social support programs and services. The advocate can also assist in referring seniors concerns and complaints to the appropriate places. I see the advo- cate participating in all the government discussions dealing with the seniors programs and services. B. Nind Advocacy for me is tied directly to the mandate and activity of interest groups such as yourself who present their point of view by meeting with decision makers and pre- senting their case. As MLA I would be interested in knowing more of what the nuances of this position would be. I have a feeling that perhaps it may be similar to the establishment of a Seniors Secretariat as stated above. Whatever the form though I would support an ofce or position that soley addresses seniors issues. YELLOWKNIFE SOUTH B. McLeod Yes but this is only part of the answer as we need to create a culture within government where caregivers in all government agencies have the knowledge and skills to customize programs to meet the individual needs of individual seniors. The above is a paid advertisement sponsored by the NWT Seniors Society. Ideas.Action.Community Authorized by Sandra Dolan 867 445-1447 ofcial agent for Don Jaque I have the experience and skills... Now I need your mandate. Michael Miltenberger is right to say I will be a newbie in the legislature. Compared to his entrenched ways my new ideas and fresh energy will be a positive thing. In my 40 years in business in the NWT I have gained experience in many elds My company CasCom in Yellowknife run by my son - I am now a minority shareholder offers IT services and remote communication solutions across the NWT and Nunavut My territorial newspaper is present in and reports on every NWT community The many employees I have hired trained and managed over time gave me valuable skills working with people I have been on the NWT Chamber of Commerce Board the College Board of Governors and was active for 26 years in Sport North - all territorial in scope. Who is the best choice to replace Michael as MLA During my years as a journalist in the NWT I have gained a depth of knowledge on most issues that will come before the legislature As an editorial writer I have analyzed many challenges facing NWT residents and proposed common-sense solutions for them My focus would be on the Thebacha riding. Building a stronger community would be my priority. Please vote for Don Jaque for Thebacha MLA Nov. 23. ENVIRONMENT AGRICULTURE 24 Wednesday November 18 2015 6.8103 in x 6.3125 in By CRAIG GILBERT Fort Simpsons Shelley Empey and her husband could not wait to buy the farm. Actually the owners of Forest Gate Greenhouse and Gardens bought the land as it came about two acres in all and are gradually building the farm themselves. Were still working on stuff she said. Its never ending. This was our second summer but we didnt actually move onto the property until the end of May last year. The Greenhouse was up house and garage were up before winter but we didnt have time to do much. We built chicken pens got a roof on the greenhouse and the solar greenhouse. Empey keeps a rooster and some chick- ens which lay enough eggs to save the couple on groceries with a few left over to sell for feed and just slaughtered six Bour- bon Red heritage breed turkeys which are more trouble than they are worth to keep through the winter. They weighed in at more than 20 pounds each. Were going to get some goats and pigs from the Northern Farm Training Institute in the spring she said. Were still put- ting infrastructure together. The buildings are up and fish are in but still working on trenches. We put up two hoop houses too. The invaluable training Empey re- ceived from NFTI through the gardening agriculture workshops the Hay River not- for-profit organization stages throughout the growing season has helped her set up her farm which is anchored by a self-con- tained aquaponics operation. They are the only ones in the north farm- ing tilapia a mild-tasting sh that likes warm water and takes about eight months to mature. If you leave them any longer theyll actually get shy tasting Empey said. The system is totally contained. They like it in the high 80s and if it drops below 60 degrees theyll die. We keep the water close to 90 and the greenhouse when we went out this morning was 86. All winter long last year we main- tained at least 84. The tanks have their own heaters as well. If the water cools the fish will become sluggish and will not eat as much stunting their growth. The garbage compactors of the sea tilapia will eat just about anything and they have free run during the summer but in the cold months at Empeys farm are fed a steady diet of commercial feed. If you put your hand in there theyre like piranhas she said. They all come to the surface and the water starts churning its nuts and as they get bigger they get even more freaky Spring 2016 will be very exciting for Empey as the fish will get a new bigger Fresh tilapia straight out of Fort Simpson is no sh story home and she will be welcoming honey bees from Ontario. Were planning a grand opening where you will be able to obtain your bedding plants hanging baskets vegetable and herb starts and we will have lots of differ- ent kinds of fruit plants for people to try. Empey said when she moved to Fort Simpson she wanted to set up a permacul- ture operation members of the public could visit. By the time she earned her North- ern Farmer certificate by completing all six of NFTIs introductory workshops Spring Into Planting Your Seed Design and Plant Your Sustainable Garden Food Forests North of 60 Garden Maintenance Marketing Food Harvest Preserva- tion and Storage and Intro to Small and Large Animal Husbandry she wanted to feed the world. Thats how NFTI executive director Jackie Milne makes you feel she laughed that you are the answer to the food prob- lem in the world. Empey said food costs are a major con- cern in Simpson a single head of imported romaine lettuce is 9 at the local store. Thats just crazy she said. Right now there is no road into town you have to take a helicopter so the prices get jacked up. Hopefully NFTI will have some different workshops I can go to in the spring. I need a bee workshop because I ordered bees and beehives and I know nothing about bees. Or a cheese workshop since Im get- ting those goats. Its hard though since we have so much planted. I need more land Tilapia growing at Forest Gate Greenhouse and Gardens in Fort Simpson. PhotocourtesyofShelleyEmpey