Vanderhoof Omineca Express, January 13, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

Inside

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POLICE UPDATE P. 3 EDITORIAL P. 6

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VIQUEENS TOURNEY P. 8 A LOOK BACK P. 10

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Crash, spin, or ditch: driving in Jan. 5 snow With continual snowfall on Jan. 5, five traffic accidents were reported between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Two of the incidents, each involving more than three vehicles, happened within the span of an hour and half on different parts of Highway 16. First incident: ditch or crash At about 11:45 a.m. on Highway 16 in front of the sawmill west of downtown Vanderhoof, a truck heading eastbound was waiting to turn left, followed by a dump truck, a small grey car, and a red truck, Nielsen said. A truck carrying wood chips, also going eastbound, did not see the vehicle lineup between the blowing snow until the last minute. Seeing that the wood chip truck would not be stopping in time, the grey car’s driver turned right to avoid the incoming truck, into the ditch.

SUBMITTED photo

See POLICE UPDATE, page 3

In the second traffic incident involving multiple vehicles to be reported to the RCMP on Jan. 5, a loaded lumber truck went into the ditch to avoid a spinning pickup in the middle of Highway 16 by C.J.’s Trailer Park.

First Vanderhoof baby in 2016 Congratulations to Lisa and Brad Van Koughnett, from Fort St. James, on their first born child. Baby boy, Leo Eldon Van Koughnett, is Vanderhoof’s 2016 New Year’s Baby, arriving on Jan. 1 at 8:09 p.m. and weighing seven pounds eight ounces. Members of St. John Hospital Auxiliary Society welcomed the New Year’s baby with a gift basket, including a crib-size quilt donated by Nechako Quilters Guild, as well as locally purchased baby products and items for Lisa. Due on Jan. 19, Leo arrived into the world early, Lisa said SUBMMITTED photo “He’s the first baby and there’s lots to learn,” Members of St. John Hospital Auxiliary Society welcomed the New Year’s she said. “We’ll take it one at a time.” Jan. 1 is also the birthday of Lisa’s maternal baby with a gift basket on Jan. 3.

LOTS OF OTHER MARKDOWNS!!

grandfather, Lisa added. If Leo arrived a few hours later, he would have been born on the same day as Lisa’s paternal grandfather, on Jan. 2. “We have lots of family and support in the area,” she said. The first baby born in the Northern Health region in 2016 was delivered at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. in Prince George at 1:25 a.m. on Jan. 1. The first baby born in B.C. in 2016 is a boy delivered at Surrey Memorial Hospital at 12:15 a.m. on Jan. 1 to a family from Fort Nelson. - with files from the St. John Hospital Auxiliary Society and Northern Health

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NEWS

B.C.: more support for homeowners, people with disabilities, and home support services Homeowner grant threshold increases VICTORIA - British Columbians who own homes valued up to $1.2 million may be eligible to receive a full home owner grant this year, while a partial grant may be available if the home is valued above this threshold. The home owner grant provides modest property tax relief to those who need it most. Last year, this program returned nearly $800 million to B.C. residents. For 2016, more than 91% of homes are below the threshold. BC Assessment estimates the values of all homes based on their market value on July 1 each year. For homes valued below the threshold, the basic grant can reduce residential property taxes on an owner’s principal residence by up to $570. An additional grant up to $275 is available for homeowners who are aged 65 or over, who qualify under the persons with disabilities category, or who are eligible to receive certain war-veteran allowances. The northern and rural home owner benefit provides an additional $200 in property tax relief to households outside the Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Capital Regional Districts. Low-income homeowners who would

have received the additional home owner grant except for the high value of their home can apply for a low-income grant supplement. Homeowners who face difficulty keeping up with rising property assessments in B.C. may also be eligible to defer all or a portion of their property taxes. The property tax deferment program provides low-interest loans that allow eligible homeowners to defer payment of annual property taxes until their home is sold or becomes part of an estate. This program is available to owners who are 55 or older, surviving spouses of any age, and persons with disabilities. Families who are financially supporting children may also qualify.

Asset limit for disability assistance increases As of Dec. 1, 2015, people receiving disability assistance can now receive regular gifts from family, friends, and community groups, their assistance from the government being affected. Allowing repeated gifts of

Wage increase for funded independent living support program VICTORIA - Health Minister Terry Lake today has announced an increase in hourly rates for the Choice in Supports for Independent Living (CSIL) program, meaning more choices when it comes to care options for British Columbians with significant disabilities. CSIL is a self-managed model of care where individuals receive funds directly to hire their own workers to provide home support services. This includes help with daily living activities such as getting up and around, meal planning, lifts and transfers, bathing and grooming. “The CSIL program empowers clients by allowing them to hand pick the workers who provide these vital services,” said Lake. “This rate increase will help them attract and keep support staff through competitive wages, allowing individuals to stay independent in their own homes for as long as possible.” The hourly rate will increase 5.5% over five years: * Jan. 1, 2016: $29.80 per hour (retroactive to April 1, 2015) * April 1, 2016: $29.94 per hour * April 1, 2017: $30.39 per hour

* April 1, 2018: $30.85 per hour * Feb. 1, 2019: $31.16 per hour People in the CSIL program receive funding each month from their regional health authority. The number of hours funded varies by person and is based on a clinical assessment by the client’s health-care team. CSIL employers assume full responsibility for covering wages and costs for advertising, recruiting and hiring a bookkeeper for financial reporting. “On behalf of CSIL employers, I thank the provincial government for working with our organization to facilitate these rate increases, which we believe are the building blocks for ensuring equal wages and parity between CSIL and agency employees,” said Ken M. Kramer, QC, principal with KMK Law Corporation and co-chair of the CSIL Funding Working Group and CSIL employer. British Columbia has 976 people who receive home support through CSIL, making up approximately 2% of all home support clients, but accounting for approximately 23% of total home-care support service hours.

THANK YOU!

Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Omineca Express

cash within the asset limit with no impact on eligibility for assistance, the changes also include raising the asset limit from $5,000 to $100,000, and from $10,000 to $200,000 for families where two people with the PWD designation receive disability assistance. There is also more flexibility in spending money from trust funds, according to the provincial government. “I’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to these major changes for people with disabilities,” said Michelle Stilwell, B.C.’s minister of Social Development and Social Innovation. “B.C. now has the most generous gifts and assets policies in Canada - meaning financial security, independence and peace of mind for people receiving disability assistance and their families.” Jane Dyson with Disability Alliance BC said, “Some of our clients are struggling to believe the new policy on gifts is true. It means some folks will enjoy a happier holiday season this year, and over the year many more will benefit from this new flexibility.”

Fraser Lake & Area Santa’s Anonymous wishes to thank all the Big Business’s, Small business’s, Community Groups,Clubs, Schools,Teams, Individuals and our Volunteers who donated time, food, toys, space, goods, money or encouragement towards the 2015 Christmas Hampers! We could not have done this without your generosity! Our apologies if we have overlooked anyone.

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WE VALUE YOUR PROPERTY AS MUCH AS YOU DO. If you’re among BC’s approximately 2 million property owners, you should receive your 2016 property assessment in the mail early in January. If you haven’t, call us toll-free at 1-866-valueBC. Access property information and compare your assessment to others using our free e-valueBC service at bcassessment.ca, BC’s trusted go-to property information resource. If you have questions or want more information, contact us at 1-866-valueBC or online at bcassessment.ca. The deadline to ﬁle an appeal for your assessment is February 1st, 2016.

For more property information, assessment highlights and videos visit

bcassessment.ca We Value BC

Omineca Express Wednesday, January 13, 2016

INSIDE NEWS

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the

IEditorial NDEX ......................... 6

Nechako Notes ........... 13 Classifieds ............. 14-15

BRIEFLY Community arts festival funding Community-based arts and cultural organizations in British Columbia can apply now for project assistance funding from the BC Arts Council to help produce local arts festivals. Awards under this program are intended to assist with the fees paid to professional artists and technicians engaged for the event. Eligible projects may include presentation of original work, existing repertoire or exhibitions, or exploration of diverse work. Festivals may feature a combination of local and touring artists. Awards will provide up to a maximum of $7,500. Priority will be given to festivals that engage B.C. and Canadian artists. Application deadline is Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016. (As Jan. 30, 2016, falls on a weekend, applications must be postmarked no later than Monday, Feb. 1, 2016. For more information and eligibility criteria, visit: www. bcartscouncil.ca

Library programs for early literacy Drop-in programs in Vanderhoof’s library for toddlers and newborns are starting this month. Babies up to 35 months old can enjoy rhymes and songs on Tuesdays from Jan. 12 to Mar. 1 at 10:30 am to 11:15 am, and a snack is provided. Three to five-yearolds will have storytime, with interactive rhymes on Thursdays from Jan. 14 to Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

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Police Update: close calls under snow CRASH, continued from front page To avoid colliding with the lineup, the chip truck driver made a split-second decision to turn left, as he saw that the grey car was already on the right side. An incoming pickup truck, heading westbound, then hit the chip truck’s trailer. Three people were injured as a result of the incident, with one taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The chip truck’s driver’s dog, seated beside the driver, suffered the most injury with part of his nose lost. The police advised drivers to secure their pets, like other passengers, with seatbelt leashes to avoid injuries. Interlude: in the air Twenty minutes after the above accident was reported, an incident on Highway 16 between Saranovich Road and Blackwater Road occurred. An eastbound car was slowing down to turn right into a residential driveway, and a pickup truck was passing him on the left. At this moment, a car approaching from behind, observed the two cars side by side and thought that they were both stationary. He veered right, going off the road and flying for 20 feet before coming to a stop, with no airbags activated. No one was injured. Second incident: truck spun by SUBMITTED photos multiple vehicles As the RCMP fin- Top: Involving multiple pickup and loaded semi trucks, the accident was the third case to be reported to the RCMP ished up paperwork on around noon on Jan. 5. scene for the Blackwa- Above: According to the damage to the pickup’s rear, it continued to be hit at the same spot by different vehicles, as it ter Road, an incident span in the middle of Highway 16. on Highway 16 was Next, an eastbound fully-loaded lumber truck checks in the evening and no serious incidents, reported near C.J.’s hits the spinning pickup, at its third time, and the police said. Trailer Park. went off the road into the ditch on the right. Other than a fatal collision on Bearhead Road, A pickup truck from Pacific Natural Gas, Lastly, a westbound blue pickup, observing one kilometre from Highway 16 west of Vanheading eastbound, was waiting to turn left after an incoming westbound logging truck passed the incident from afar, went right and up an em- derhoof, on Dec. 23 morning, Christmas season bankment, clipping a nearby stop sign. overall was uneventful in Vanderhoof, said Sgt. through. Though the pickup driver suffered only minor Svend Nielsen. Meanwhile, an eastbound logging truck, passInvolving a minivan driven by a Vanderhoof ing the waiting pickup on the right, was suspect- injuries, the RCMP is looking for information on ed to have clipped the pickup at the rear, spinning the initial logging truck that first spun the pickup. resident and an unloaded logging truck, the Vanderhoof driver died at the scene, and investigation the vehicle. In the past week, Vanderhoof’s local RCMP of the collision’s cause continues at press time, Then, a westbound flat-bed truck, seeing the according to North District Traffic Services. scene but unable to avoid the spinning pickup, hit detachment lodged 109 files. There were 15 files from New Year’s Eve - with files from Sgt. Svend Nielsen, it again at the rear — according to evidence — to the fi rst hours of 2016, including three road Vanderhoof RCMP setting it spinning again.

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

NEWS

Northern B.C. region 2016 property assessment notices in the mail PRINCE GEORGE —In the next few days, owners of more than 245,000 properties throughout northern British Columbia can expect to receive their 2016 assessment notices, which reflect market value as of July 1, 2015. “The majority of residential home owners within the region can expect a slight increase, compared to last year’s assessment,” says Deputy Assessor David Keough. “Most home owners in the Northern BC region will see changes

in the 0% to +10% range. However, there are some home year. A total of almost $1.4 billion of the region’s updated owners that will see an increase higher then 10% while assessments is from new construction, subdivisions and others will see a decrease, such as in the communities of rezoning of properties. Fraser Lake, Granisle and Tumbler Ridge.” BC Assessment’s Northern BC region encompasses Commercial and Light Industrial property owners in the approximately 70% of the province stretching east to the region will see a similar increase in the range of 0 to +10%. Alberta border, north to the Yukon border, west to Bella Overall, the Northern BC region’s total assessments Coola including Haidi Gwaii and ending just north of increased from $57.3 billion in 2015 to $59.5 billion this Clinton.

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Express 2015 northern B.C. real estate sales report The REALTOR® members of the BC Northern Real Estate Board (BCNREB) reported 4840 property sales worth $1.2 billion in 2015 through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), down from last year’s 5,218 sales worth $1.3 billion. Both sales and listings were down slightly in 2015 from the previous year, though both were also near 2013 levels. Looking specifically at sales, and only for the month of December, BC Northern saw 6% more sales (12.3% more detached residential sales) than the prior December, though, as stated, the overall annual sales dropped by a slight 6.5%. The average price of residential detached homes rose by 1% across the Board, though all property types, in aggregate, saw a drop of less than 2%. Considering the size of our Board area, Board averages may not reflect local markets. This year, in particular, significant regional disparity is apparent, with those areas most exposed to commodity markets experiencing a higher than average drop in sales and, in some instances, a drop in average prices. Other areas remained stable or saw higher than average sales. “Some areas in the BC Northern area are being affected by the global commodity slowdown and have seen a drop in sales volume and also price pressure,” comments Ken Laursen, Past President of BC Northern. “The effect of commodity markets on the housing market in some areas brings to the forefront the fact that the economy of the north remains largely commodity driven.” Prince George continues to be mostly unaffected by the economic conditions in either the northern, western or southern areas of our Board area, likely thanks to a more diversified economy. Sales for 2015 are nearly identical to the year before, while average sale prices for all properties have risen slightly (approximately 6%). The western area saw larger drops in sales, with Kitimat being particularly affected. After seeing a few consecutive years of significant increases in price, the average price of property in Kitimat has dropped this year. Sales to active listing ratio for December 2015 was 11% and suggestive of a buyer’s market. Terrace also saw a drop in sales and average prices in 2015, though the Board believes this drop is more of a market normalization after the City experienced an unusually hot and speculative 2014. While prices for the average property have dropped, they remain above 2013 levels. As seen throughout the western region, Prince Rupert’s sales have fallen more than the Board average. The City has, however, continued to see an increase in average sale prices. Smithers has seen a small drop in sales for 2015 but an overall raise in average sale price. The northern area, as expected, was particularly affected by the commodity (especially oil and gas) markets. Fort St John’s sales dropped by approximately 28% with an approximately 9% drop in average property prices. The sales to active listings ratio for December 2015 was 7%, suggestive of a buyers’ market. In the southern area, 100 Mile House has benefitted from the hot market in the lower mainland, with an influx of recreational property buyers driving the short distance north to purchase vacation homes. Both the number of sales and the average sale prices were up in the District. Williams Lake saw a modest drop in sales and average sale prices which, the Board surmises, may be caused by concerns over the lower rates for copper. While BC’s economy continues to outperform the rest of Canada, some areas of the north have seen difficult economic conditions. Some of the previous price gains in the northern and western areas of the Board were

Average Selling Price (Year to Date) MLS® Reported Sales – Single Family Residential BC Northern Real Estate Board

caused by speculation and a return to pre-2014 numbers may actually benefit local residents, especially local buyers. Forecasts for 2016 suggest commodity markets will continue much as they have through 2015, though the Board sees some hope for improvement toward the end of the year. Bulkley Nechako Region The 120 properties sold in Vanderhoof in 2015 were worth $22.2 million, compared with 2014’s 132 properties worth $25.4 million. Of the 44 single family homes that sold in 2015, half sold for less than $218,000. In addition, 17 parcels of vacant land, 31 homes on acreage, 6 manufactured homes in parks and a further 10 manufactured homes on land changed hands in 2015. As of December 31st there were 103 properties of all types available through MLS® in the Vanderhoof area, compared with 95 properties a year ago. In Fort St. James 53 properties worth $11.8 million sold in 2015, compared to 42 properties worth $7.9 million in 2014. At year end there were 58 properties of all types available through MLS® in the Fort St. James area, compared to 57 at the same time last year. In Burns Lake 105 properties with a value of $12.7 million sold in 2015 compared with 71 worth $8.2 million in 2014. Half of the 45 single family homes that sold, sold for less than $97,500. 18 parcels of vacant land, 24 homes on acreage and 6 manufactured homes on land also changed hands in 2015. As of December 31st there were 114 properties of all types available through MLS® in the Burns Lake area, down from 130 at the end of 2014. 60 properties worth $9.9 million changed hands in the Houston area in 2015, compared to the 64 properties worth $10.7 million that sold in 2014. The median value of the 32 single family homes sold was $159,500. As of December 31st there were 50 properties of all types available in the Houston area. REALTORS® reported 252 sales worth $65.9 million in the Smithers area in 2015, compared to 266 sales worth $60.5 million in 2014. The median value of the 113 single family homes that sold in 2015 was $258,000. 22 parcels of vacant land, 59 homes on acreage, 17 manufactured homes in parks and a further 17 on land also changed

hands in 2015. At year end there were 211 properties of all types available through MLS® in the Smithers area, no change from the 211 properties available a year ago. Fraser Fort George Region In the City of Prince George, 1442 properties worth $377 million sold in 2015, compared with 1449 properties worth $355.5 million in 2014. At year end there were 481 properties of all types available through MLS® compared to 556 properties at the end of 2014. In the area west of the by-pass, half of the 303 single family homes sold in 2015, sold for less than $250,000. As well, 24 apartment units and 47 townhomes changed hands in 2015. As of December 31st there were 30 single family homes listed through MLS® in this area of the City, compared to 40 at the same time last year. East of the by-pass 16 apartment units, 16 half duplexes, and 15 townhomes sold in 2015. The 185 single family homes sold had a median value of $205,000. At the end of December there were 27 single family homes available for sale through MLS® in this area compared with 38 at the end of 2014. In the northern part of the city, 40 homes on acreage, 23 manufactured homes in parks and a further 55 manufactured homes on land sold in 2015. Of the 199 single family homes sold, half sold for less than $289,900. As of December 31st there were 31 single family homes available through MLS® in this area of the City compared with 33 at the end of 2014. In the southwest sector 9 half duplexes, 21 townhomes, 9 homes on acreage, 7 manufactured homes in parks and a further 2 manufactured homes on land sold in 2015. Half of the 272 single family homes sold in 2015 sold for less than $352,300. At year end there were 57 single family homes available for sale through MLS® in the southwest sector, compared with 43 at the end of 2014. In the Mackenzie area 67 properties worth $11 million were reported sold in 2015, compared with 2014’s 77 properties worth $12.7 million. The median value of the 47 single family homes that sold in 2015 was $158,000. At year end there were 72 properties of all types available through MLS® in the Mackenzie area, no change from the 72 properties at the same time in 2014.

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Express

OPINION

Published by Black Press Ltd at 150 West Columbia Street, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0

Passages of 2015: Stephen Harper Tom Fletcher Black Press I first met Stephen Harper when he was running for the Canadian Alliance leadership in 2002. Speaking to a group of Fraser Valley members concerned that the party had split over the leadership of Stockwell Day, Harper didn’t mince words because a local reporter had showed up on a Saturday morning. He explained his prediction that no matter who leads the conservative movement started by Preston Manning, the national media would work against it. “The press is owned by big-L liberals and staffed by small-L liberals,” Harper said. “Preston was too cerebral; Stock was not cerebral enough. I’m not sure where I will be, but the media will always be on the other side.” Harper’s cold war with national media is a theme that runs through his decade as prime minister, peaking in 2015 with the most slanted election coverage I’ve ever witnessed. The celebration continues over Justin Trudeau’s victory, with the supposedly non-partisan federal bureaucracy cheering along with much of the national media. Harper’s assessment of major newspaper ownership is no longer accurate, except for the Toronto Star. But the dying tradition of owners looking up from their accounting ledgers to endorse a political party continued, with the Postmedia chain and the Globe and Mail pointing out that Trudeau’s rash promises didn’t add up. Endorsements were a brief interruption in the media assault on Harper’s record. His government’s plan to welcome 10,000 refugees, unveiled way back in January 2015, was portrayed as heartless and feeble, while Trudeau’s 25,000 by Christmas represented the generous character of the true Canada. As it turns out, the Liberals have been hard pressed to reach even the 10,000 mark. But they’ve put out a rash new promise to make it 50,000 at some point in the future, so the media’s new-found message of sunshine, hope and change continues. Those modest $10 billion annual deficits that Trudeau promised, and Harper warned against? Borrowing and spending will far exceed that, but we’re assured that’s because they were based on inflated Conservative financial forecasts. In fact, independent private sector forecasts are now the key reference for government budgets at the federal and provincial level. None of them predicted the further slump in energy prices that continued through 2015. And cooking the books before an election isn’t really possible any more, thanks to the establishment of the Parliamentary Budget Office. That was a Harper innovation, along with scheduled elections. And that Trudeau pledge to raise taxes on the wealthiest Canadians and use the proceeds to finance a tax cut for the middle class? That one didn’t add up either. For one thing, wealthy people have a variety The Omineca Express is published every Wednesday in Vanderhoof by Black Press Ltd. Publisher: Pam Berger advertising@ominecaexpress.com

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The Omineca Express is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a selfregulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

of legal ways to reduce their taxable income. Here’s an actual front-page headline from the Globe and Mail, reporting this unfortunate fact, well after the election: “The way Liberals gauged response to new tax rate explains gap.” So it was just an understandable oversight, you see. Trudeau’s star turn in Paris,

where he pronounced that “Canada is back” in the battle to control the world’s weather? The official submission from his bloated delegation to the UN climate meetings was actually the existing Conservative plan, which includes phasing out coal-fired electricity generation. Harper generally represented a preference for the individual over

the state, a concept that at one time was known as “liberalism.” This was illustrated by his preference for parents rather than a nanny state to administer child care. He advocated free trade, small government and low taxes. We’ll see how that legacy survives the new government and its media cheering section.

Christmas: one hundred years back It didn’t take me long to get my memory going towards the days of yore. Old Christmas cards bring back memories quickly and lively. It wasn’t hard to replace myself with the boy staring with fascination and desire at Mr. Hope’s toy store window, mingled with the thoughts of today’s shopping facilities. How different it all is today. The clip clop noise of the horse pulling a family in their sled through the main street of downtown fits well into the whole picture. The family just passed the warm inviting hallway of the church of the local Salvation Army for their upcoming Christmas Concert. Tom, the street player is frantically playing melodies to make extra money for his hungry children at home and hopes to buy presents for them. It’s all covered with a

new layer of beautiful white snow which dampen the street noise somewhat. The street lantern which I often used as a watchtower for my own fantasies glittered as well with the fallen snow. Instantly I loved the sight of the older brother pulling the old sled; it’s easy to replace myself with him. The little dog patiently wait for new excitement which will come up soon as usual because she knows. The days of yore, at a hundred years of past memories. It was a pleasant surprise to receive this beautiful card instead of an e-mail of a beloved friend. Those memories become more precious as the time presses on. Thank you old friend for sharing deeprooted memories once again with me. Ary Sala, Fanny Bay.

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Express

NEWS BC SPCA your first adoption option!

VIVIAN CHUI screenshot

InvestLocalBC aims at getting local dollars for local projects, said Graham Stanley of Community Futures Stuart Nechako.

Crowdfunding business Startups now available with a local Portal in B.C. many crowdfunding platforms out there, InvestLocalBC aims at getting local dollars for local projects. “Through local investment we empower our communities and the focus was to help local groups and organizations fund their projects. We launched the service in the spring of 2014 for non-profits and civic projects then, in the spring of 2015 securities regulators of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Québec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia made the move to allow start-ups and early stage companies to raise capital through crowdfunding as well. We were ready, submitted our paperwork and now have the blessing of BCSC. I think InvestLocalBC is the first of its kind in the province,” Stanley said. “Crowdfunding is an incredibly powerful community development tool that can in-

crease awareness and supercharge stakeholder engagement by aligning financial and social goals to help bring community projects to realization,” said Craig Asano, founder and executive director of National Crowd Funding Association of Canada (NCFA), of which Stanley is an ambassador. Adding a business portal to the site is not the only transformation. InvestLocalBC has also partnered with Fundrazr a crowdfunding pioneer in BC to “increase our reach on the nonprofit side and FundRazr has an extremely large audience,” stated Stanley. “We are pleased to support the innovative program from InvestLocalBC for encourag-

ing entrepreneurship in communities across the province,” said Daryl Hatton, founder & CEO of FundRazr, the leading provider of crowdfunding services in Canada. “Their approach of pairing locally-based crowdfunding sites powered by our world-class FundRazr technology with government programs and sponsorship is unique. It shows a commitment to break new ground and find effective new ways to support BC companies in this growing, technology-enabled economy.” The new look of InvestLocalBC went live in mid-December and has three dedicated sites, Nonprofit, Business and Arts and Cul-

“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca

MEETING SCHEDULE 2016 NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS Regular Board MeeƟngs of the Board of EducaƟon of School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) for the months of January and February 2016 will be held as follows: January 18, 2016 Video-Conference February 22, 2016 Video-Conference Designated sites for video-conferencing are: Lakes District Secondary School, Fort St. James Secondary School, Fraser Lake Elementary-Secondary School, and the Vanderhoof School Board Oĸce. These meeƟngs will commence at 6:00 p.m. Members of the public are invited to aƩend. Darlene Turner Secretary-Treasurer

January 14, 2016.........RDBN Committee Meetings January 28, 2016.........RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting February 11, 2016 .......RDBN Committee Meetings February 25, 2016 .......RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting March 10, 2016............RDBN Committee Meetings March 24, 2016............RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting The Committee of the Whole will be discussing the draft 2016 to 2020 Financial Plan at its regular meeting on January 14, 2016 and at the Committee of the Whole Meetings on February 11 and March 10, 2016. The Financial Plan will be on the agenda for adoption at the March 24, 2016 Board Meeting. Meetings tentatively commence at 10:30 a.m. Please call (250) 692-3195/1-800-320-3339 for further information

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ture. “This is the tool we need to begin to diversify the economies of our communities,” said Stanley.

HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVE THERAPY BY MAGDALENA SAITO

Vanderhoof, BC. – With the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) giving the go ahead to use crowdfunding to raise money through issuing securities, local portal InvestLocalBC.ca is relying on a dealer registration exemption provided by the BCSC (BCI 45-535) to give small startups an alternative way to raise funds. “The whole idea is to empower our communities and get things done. And now being able to assist businesses through the new portal for InvestLocalBC there is a tremendous opportunity to empower communities all over the province. Not only nonprofit and civic projects, but new business ideas and startups now have this power as well,” said Community Futures Stuart Nechako’s general manager Graham Stanley. While there are

Meet Casper! Casper is a beautiful 5 month old domestic short hair. Casper is a timid fellow with a heart of gold. A quiet home without children would be the best fit for Casper. He would love a home that is patient and understands it will take time for him to trust new people. Once Casper knows he can trust you he is an affectionate little guy. Casper comes out of his shell when he is around nd other cats cats. He would love to have a furry friend in his new home. If Casper sounds like the perfect addition to your home come down and meet him. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADOPT DEMETRI OR NEED MORE INFO PLEASE CALL

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Nutritional Labels Nutrition labels can be confusing, but they are there to help you make the right decision, or at least an educated one. The number one overlooked fact about the nutrition label is the “Serving size” Often people will sit down to eat an entire box of Macaroni and cheese with no problem, without realizing that a single box is a serving for 4. Serving sizes are your guide to understand the amount of what you are getting. If the serving size is ¼ the box, then you need to multiply the information of calories, fat, proteins etc, by four. For some people, simply keeping track of their calories will help them to lose weight, once you realize how much you are eating it stays on your mind next time you sit down to eat. When it comes to keeping track of your daily intake, percentages are just as important, keep a list and you’d be amazed at how many vitamins you may not have enough of, or how much sodium is actually eaten. “Calories” – are the measurement of how much energy the food you are eating is giving you. (too many calories in surplus get stored as fat. Depending on your lifestyle the intake you need differs and so everyone is different. Daily values for women are about 1500-2000 & for men 2000-2500. Keep in mind activity level is recommended and amount influences your caloric need. (Want to keep track of calories taken in versus burned? There are plenty of online calculators available). “Fat” – for every gram of fat multiply by three to get the amount of calories and you’ll see how fat can add up. Be sure to make healthy choices regarding fats, and limit your saturated and trans fats as they are the most difficult for the body to dispose of and opt instead for healthier fats such as unsaturated and raw oils such as olive oils, nuts & seeds. Your body needs fat so be sure to ingest more of the good fats (such as omegas etc) “Cholesterol” - try to keep this number down as well, your body produces most of your own cholesterol, try not to add too much via food intake. “Sodium” - is often found in many processed foods and they can add up, too much sodium means water retention and problems in the long run. The worst offenders tend to be microwave dishes and fast foods, so be sure to keep your eye out for an acceptable amount. Try not to exceed 100% of your daily recommended value. We all need a little sodium and salt, however, preservation and conveniences sneak in larger amounts then we are used to.

Magdalena Saito Holistic Health Practitioner

250-524-0333 -- www.HalcyonHolistic.com

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Omineca Express

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NEWS Far left: A Viqueen leaps for the basket against Bulkley Valley Secondary’s Royals during the invitational tournament’s first match on Saturday in Nechako Valley Secondary. Left: NVSS’s senior girls basketball team, coached by Vaughn Mueller (far right) claims second place. VIVIAN CHUI photos

Viqueens shot second, invitational Vivian Chui Omineca Express Vanderhoof’s Viqueens finished second at their athome invitational tournament this past weekend, losing to the Condors from Prince George’s Duchess Park Secondary 45-71. Hosted by Nechako Valley Secondary’s senior girls basketball team from Jan. 8 to 9, the regional event was attended by eight schools from Smithers, Terrace, Prince Rupert, and Prince George. “Today, Duchess came to play,” said Vaughn Mueller, coach of NVSS’s senior girls basketball team. “We had a real tight game with them last time, and they’ve got good weapons and experience.” The Viqueens last played the Condors at the Duchess

A division of

Park Invitational, losing narrowly by five points gained within the game’s last minute. “They got us this time, but we’ll be back,” Mueller said, adding that the Viqueens currently need to work on free throws and finishing easy baskets. “If we can finish that in a consistent basis, we can compete.” He added, “We did that last time.” The Viqueens’ most valuable player of the final game was Kassidy Dick, and the Heart and Hustle Award went to Jordan Andres. Overall, the tournament’s all-star award was won by Katie Verduzco, and the best defence player was Jordan Andres. On Saturday, the Viqueens kicked off the tournament by defeating the Royals from Bulkley Valley Christian

School at 93-32, with Katie Verduzco as Most Valuable Player and Madyson Blattner winning the Heart and Hustle Award. Vaughn Mueller Coach of NVSS Senior Girls Basketball It has been a fantastic start for the senior girls basketball team, but not unexpected. The senior girls are off to an excellent start to the season after going 9-3 up to the Christmas break. The 10th ranked Viqueens are looking to make some noise in the provincial rankings in the next poll; they have finished third at the Ross Shepherd invitational in Edmonton, second in the GW Graham invitational and second again at the Duchess Park Invita-

tional, narrowly losing to the third ranked Condors by five points. It was a fantastic game! Both teams fought hard after a mid-third quarter dry spell left the Viqueens down by 14 points. But the fourth quarter was an indicator of their perseverance as they clawed their way back closing the condors lead to just one point with just 49 seconds left in the game, but a few ill-timed turn overs allowed the Condors to take a five-point lead and that’s how it ended up with Duchess Park escaping with a 65-60 victory. Coach Vaughn Mueller said, “The girls worked very hard, and showed respect for the Condors, but no fear.” That fourth quarter was like two heavy weights going toe to toe, but in the end the

Viqueens just didn’t quite have the legs. “Going into the fourth we were down by 14 points,” said Mueller. “I thought the girls showed good heart clawing their way back into the game, now we know we are capable of competing with them and we look forward to our next meeting.”

STORY

NO. 6

This Newspaper. It’s a good read. When crumpled and stuffed in your jacket, it’s a good insulator. That’s what Bethany had to do when she lived on the streets.

This toque. It helped Bethany ﬁnd a better life. Buy yours at RaisingtheRoof.org or donate $5 by texting TOQUE to 45678. Help the homeless in your community.

Omineca Express Wednesday, January 13, 2016

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COMMUNITY Far left: Players from Smithers and Vanderhoof dive for the puck during the finals game of the regional Bantam Hockey tournament in Vanderhoof’s arena on Sunday. Left: A Vanderhoof Bear shot against Smithers in the third period of the final game on Sunday. Vanderhoof had previously lost to Smithers during the round robin. VIVIAN CHUI photos

Vanderhoof bantam hockey wins 1st place Vivian Chui Omineca Express Vanderhoof’s bantam hockey team snatched first place at home in a regional tournament in the past weekend. The event, including teams from Houston, Kitimat, Terrace, and Smithers, featured round robin games from Jan. 8 to 10. Defeating Smithers 3-2 in the third period during the finals game on Sunday, Vanderhoof had an up and down weekend. The Bantam hockey team started with a 10-0 win against Houston on Friday, then lost 5-7 against Smithers and 9-10 against Terrace on Saturday. On Sunday morning, Vanderhoof’s team gained more points to pull ahead by defeating Kitimat 6-2.

Bursary for BC Winter Games youth The BC Games Society and Coast Capital Savings have teamed up once again to support the pursuit of achievement and leadership through a bursary program. Athletes (and youth coaches and officials) taking part in the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games can apply to receive one of 16 bursaries in the amount of $500. The program was first offered at the 2014 BC Summer Games with over 250 applicants for the bursary. The bursary is intended to recognize athletes who have achieved in sport and education but, more importantly, go above and beyond in their communities through leadership and volunteer activities. Youth coaches and officials (under 19 years of age) who are attending the Games as part of a development opportunity are also welcome to apply. The online application form is at www.bcgames.org and deadline is on Feb. 8.

Environmental Assessment of the Blackwater Gold Project

Public Comment Period and Information Sessions New Gold Inc. is proposing the construction and operation of an open pit gold and silver mine located approximately 110 kilometres southwest of Vanderhoof, British Columbia. As proposed, the project would produce 60,000 tonnes per day of gold and silver ore, over a mine life of 17 years. The Blackwater Gold Project is subject to review under both the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) and B.C.’s Environmental Assessment Act and is undergoing a coordinated environmental assessment. Public Comment Period The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (the Agency) and B.C.'s Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) are inviting the public to comment on the ongoing environmental assessment of the Blackwater Gold Project. The proponent has recently submitted its Environmental Impact Statement / Application (EIS / Application) which describes the project and its potential to cause environmental, heritage, health, social, and economic effects. A copy of the complete EIS / Application and more information is available online at www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca and at www.eao.gov.bc.ca. A summary of the document in English or French is also available on the Agency’s website at www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca. Submit comments from January 20, 2016 to February 19, 2016: By Online Form: www.eao.gov.bc.ca By mail:

By Email: Blackwater@ceaa-acee.gc.ca

Blackwater Gold Project Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency 410-701 West Georgia Street Vancouver, British Columbia V7Y 1C6

By Fax: 250-387-2208

Blackwater Gold Project Environmental Assessment Office PO Box 9426 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, British Columbia V8W 9V1

The Agency accepts comments in either English or in French. Comments only need to be submitted once to either the Agency or the EAO to be considered for both the provincial and federal environmental assessments. Copies of the summary and the complete EIS / Application are also available for viewing at these locations: Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency Vancouver, B.C. Viewing by appointment only Telephone: 604-666-2431 Fraser Lake Public Library 228 Endako Avenue Fraser Lake, B.C.

Vanderhoof Public Library 230 Stewart Street East Vanderhoof, B.C

Burns Lake Public Library 585 Government Street Burns Lake, B.C.

Fort St. James Public Library 425 Manson Street Fort St. James, B.C.

Prince George Public Library Bob Harkins Branch 888 Canada Games Way Prince George, B.C.

Prince George Public Library Nechako Branch 6547 Hart Highway Prince George, B.C.

Cariboo Regional District Library Quesnel Branch 101-410 Kinchant Street Quesnel, B.C.

Information Sessions: February 2, 2016, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Nechako Senior Friendship Centre 219 Victoria Street East Vanderhoof, B.C.

February 3, 2016, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mouse Mountain Elementary School 266 Taluk Avenue Fraser Lake, B.C.

Information on the Blackwater Gold Project and the EIS / Application will be available at the information sessions, and interested individuals will be able to speak with provincial and federal representatives and New Gold Inc.’s technical team. All submissions received by the Agency and the EAO during the comment period in relation to the Blackwater Gold Project are considered public. Comments will be posted to the EAO website and will become part of the Agency project file.

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Omineca Express

Vanderhoof celebrating 90 years Fort St. James celebrating 210 years

Fort St. James BC’s first capital

Fort St. James, circa 1930. Photo courtesy of B.C. Archives

Aerial view of Fort St. St James in 1986. 1986 Photo courtesy of Kim Van Dolah

Aerial view of Fort St. James in 2008.

Fort St. James started out as a trading post in 1806. Since then, the former BC capital situated on the shores of beautiful Stuart Lake has grown to several thousand people. Those people have included trappers, miners and generally hardworking characters. It is important to the history of Fort St. James to salute many of the area’s pioneers. Born in Allegan, Michigan in 1904, Earl Buck travelled by wagon to Nebraska before settling in Saskatchewan. Buck farmed in that province until 1923, when he came to B.C. and worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Most of his work involved delivering freight to Manson Creek and Germanson Landing. He married his wife Claire Shaver, in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan in 1930. They had four children: Doreen, Ronald, Sharon and Aaron. On January 17, 1925, Ernest McCorkell and Joseph Isadore had a hard trip carrying mail and freight from Takla Landing to Fort St. James because of unfavorable weather conditions. It took them 13 days for the first 70 miles. On March 31, 1931, the death of Mrs. Gregg, wife of the Hudson Bay Company Factor at Fort St. James, occurred. She was 40 years old, was born in England and married in 1917 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Agnes Cooke’s property was once a stopover place for horse drawn wagons during the early part of this century. The Cooke’s bought the property in 1952. Freight crews would make the 26 miles jaunt from Fort St. James to Dog Creek the first day before continuing their trip to Fort Fraser. Dog Creek which runs right through the Cooke property, was named for the many dog teams who came through the area near the turn of the century before the horse teams. Paul Bloomfield is another Fort St. James pioneer, who came to BC from Saskatchewan in 1920. They moved from Van-

derhoof to Fort St. James because his mother felt that area was not civilized enough. His parents worked at the Fort’s Catholic School. Besides a rich history, Fort St. James has an extremely large number of things to do. Tourists can visit the Historic Park, where the original Hudson’s Bay Post has been lovingly restored. The Fort St. James National Historic Site, the ancient burial site of Carrier Chief Kwah, Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church, and the monument to legendary bush pilot Russ Baker are of great interest to residents and visitors alike. For hikers, there is a trail up Mt. Pope. Other attractions include Stuart Lake, for fishing, boating swimming. Did you know John Stuart (1779-1847) arrived in Fort St. James in 1806 with Simon Fraser. Stuarts’ Lake was named after him. He governed New Caledonia from 1809 to 1824. Nak’azdli Band has almost 1900 members, of which about 700 live on the main reserve along Nakalbun (Stuart Lake). The Band has its own independent school (Nakalbun Elementary), gas station (Carrier Food and Fuel), grocery store (Sana’aih Market), daycare, youth centre, greenhouse, and Tl’oh Forest Products. It also owns Nahounli Creek Gas in Fort St. James. The Nak’azdli Health Centre is an accredited facility, providing services to both Nak’azdli and Fort St. James citizens. Nak’azdli is governed by a Chief and eight Councilors, and has numerous committees to oversee core functions in the community. Nak’azdli citizens enjoy a close link to a vast territory and continue their traditions of hunting, fishing, trapping, and harvesting a variety of resources. The two salmon runs, Early and Late Stuart, remain an important source of food so water health and safety is one of the key priorities of the Band.

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COMMUNITY

CSFS Becomes First Accredited Delegated Aboriginal Agency in B.C. In September of 2015 the International Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities announced that Carrier Sekani Family Services achieved three-year accreditation, the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization. For over 25 years Carrier Sekani Family Services has provided child welfare, health, and legal services to First Nations persons living in the Prince George, Vanderhoof, and Burns Lake areas, both off and on reserve. CSFS started as a grass roots organization in 1990 tasked with providing front line services to improve overall health and wellness for Carrier and Sekani First Nations people. Our staff numbers have grown from a small group of 3 to over 160 employees today who provide a myriad of holistic health and wellness services across sectors. Carrier Sekani Family Services is proud to offer holis-

tic health and wellness programming to our community members. Our Health department provides adult and youth clinical counselling, addictions treatment, early childhood development, occupational health and diabetes prevention education. With the formation of the First Nations Health Authority we are able to offer Primary Care Physician services, to work in conjunction with our community nurses. Our Child and Family Services Department ensures the safety and wellbeing of our Carrier and Sekani children in permanent care of the Ministry for Children and Families. We also provide First Nations foster homes, legal mediation, family support, holistic wellness education, youth programming, violence prevention, and employment programming. Our agency takes direct responsibility for ensuring that research conducted in our community’s reflects their needs through our Research department. All of

Pushing the last stretch: biathlon

our services are proudly offered combining traditional and culturally relevant methods with the best in evidence-based practice. In December of 2015 the Ministry of Child & Family Development congratulated CSFS on becoming the first Delegated Aboriginal Agency in BC to achieve accreditation. Currently there are 22 Delegated Aboriginal Agencies within BC who, under MCFD, provide various levels of guardianship, foster care, voluntary services, and full child protection services to Aboriginal children in care. As MCFD does not require Delegated Aboriginal Agencies to be accredited, CSFS voluntarily partook in the extensive accreditation process with great success. Accreditation assures CSFS’ stakeholders and clients that the organization is dedicated to international levels of accountability and quality improvement across all of our programs and services.

New assistant superintendents at School District No. 91 Charlene Seguin, Superintendent of Schools, congratulates Mr. Rick Pooley, Assistant Superintendent, on his official retirement as of January 4, 2016. Mr. Pooley was a highly experienced educator and a valued member of the School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) senior leadership team who will be missed. We know that Mr. Pooley is looking forward to extra time to pursue his fishing and travel interests. Ms. Seguin is also pleased to announce that Mr. Eugene Marks and Mr. Manu Madhok will become Assistant Superintendents effective immediately. Mr. Marks is an outstanding educator who has served in a variety of roles for Nechako Lakes School District following his years as a teacher/counsellor at Nechako Valley Secondary School. Mr. Marks was principal at Grassy Plains School, in the former School District 55, prior to returning to Vanderhoof to become the vice-principal at Nechako Valley Secondary School followed by a principalship at Evelyn Dickson Elementary School. He has been a member of the senior leadership team as a Director of Instruction since 2007.

Mr. Madhok has spent his entire educational career in Nechako Lakes. Mr. Madhok is a well-respected and committed educator who has extensive administrative experience having served as the principal of Eugene Joseph Elementary School, David Hoy Elementary School and EBUS Academy. Mr. Madhok has also played a critical role at the provincial level having served on a curriculum writing team and on several advisory panels. He has been a member of the district’s senior leadership team as a Director of Instruction since the fall of 2011. Coincidentally, Mr. Madhok was Mr. Marks’ student teacher in 1992 at Nechako Valley Secondary! Ms. Seguin described both Mr. Madhok and Mr. Marks as experienced and progressive educators who demonstrate creativity, innovation and insight and is pleased that they will continue to contribute to the Nechako Lakes School District.

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Sara McBride climbs the hill for the last stretch of her six-kilometre sprint race at the first B.C. Cup of biathlon on Sunday at Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s ski trails.

You can NOW READ Full Page Views Including ALL ADVERTISING!!! “ON LINE” go online to ominecaexpress.com or call 250-567-9258 150 West Columbia, Vanderhoof

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NEWS Christmas Eve: children’s calls on Santa’s whereabouts answered by Sophie Grégoire Trudeau PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – On Dec. 24, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau took some time on Christmas Eve to answer phone calls and update children on Santa’s journey — as part of the annual North American Aerospace Defense Command Tracks Santa program. Mme. Grégoire Trudeau surprised young children who called in to the NORAD Tracks Santa Operations Centre by personally answering their questions about Santa, his reindeer, and when they could expect him to visit their homes. Sophie used NORAD’s global tracker to

A division of

share Santa’s exact location with the kids and assured them that Santa had left the North Pole and was on time and on schedule. The NORAD Tracks Santa program began in 1955 after a phone call was made to the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The call was from a local youngster who dialed a misprinted telephone number in a local newspaper advertisement. The commander on duty who answered the phone that night gave the child the information requested - the whereabouts of Santa. This

#UsedHelps

began the tradition of tracking Santa, a tradition that was carried on by NORAD when it was formed in 1958. The NORAD Tracks Santa program has grown immensely since first presented on the Internet in 1997. The website, www.noradsanta.org receives millions of unique visitors from hundreds of countries and territories around the world. In addition, a live Operations Center is occupied for 23 hours with more than 1,200 volunteers each year who receive hundreds of thousands of phone calls and emails from families around the world.

Omineca Express Wednesday, January 13, 2016

First B.C. biathlon event of the season

VIVIAN CHUI photo

A biathlon athlete aims for a round of shooting on Sunday at Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s grounds.

VANDERHOOF’S FAITH

Church Directory For more information or to join Vanderhoof’s Faith Church Directory

Call Pam at 250-567-9258

The Gospel Chapel 448 Connaught Street 11:00 a.m. Worship Service (Affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of Canada) For more information call

567-3107

www.thegospelchapel.ca

Our Mission Glorifying God by helping all people move closer to Jesus Christ one step at a time.

Nechako Christian Fellowship WELCOMES YOU! 11:00 am Worship Service 767 Loop Road Email: NechCS@live.com Christ - Centered Bible - Based Missions - Minded Non-Denominational

“...holding forth the Word of life...” Phil 2:16

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship

The Church on the Corner “Giving you a Purpose to live for and People to live with” Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday School: 9:45 am Small Groups meeting together regularly:

1393 Highway 16 East 250-567-4960

We have a place for you to belong! For more information call

Join us Sundays @ 9:30 am Everyone Welcome!

For more information visit our website: www.vcfemc.com

Visit our website: nechakocommunitychurch.com

567-9198 263 Vanderview Drive

Nechako Notes COMING EVENTS.... Will appear, as space is available, free of charge in this section. Coming events are available to non-profit organizations only. This area is not intended for thank you submissions or selling products. It is simply a place for non-profit organizations a place to announce upcoming free activities. You can e-mail your item to advertising@ominecaexpress.com or by fax (567-2070). Your organizations’ announcement can also be dropped off at our office located at 155 W. Columbia. Decision of the publisher is final. *** FORT FRASER CEMETARY COMMISSION...Annual General Meeting January 18, 2016 at 7:30 pm, Fort Fraser Hall Kitchen. *** DIVORCECARE... Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. DivorceCare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable DivorceCare resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. You can get additional information from www.divorcecare.org. DivorceCare Group - Thursdays at 7 pm, Feb-April. 780 Loop Road in Vanderhoof (White House across from Nechako Christian Fellowship). Open to anyone who is experiencing the pain of separation or divorce. You can join the group at any time. For more information and to register, call or text Bob Clark 250.570.9203, June Clark 250.570.9338 or Dave Robinson 778.344.2292 *** THE VANDERHOOF CHESS CLUB... Exercise your brain! All ages, from beginner to master, feel free to join the Vanderhoof Chess Club every Monday through the school year (except Statutory holidays) 6:30pm - 7:30pm at the NVSS library. It’s FREE. Play chess with friends and meet new people. Use our boards or bring your own. Our goals are to have fun playing chess and to host an Annual Vanderhoof Chess Tournament. For details please contact Jeff Obayashi at jobayashi@hotmail. com or Jeremy Hara at NVSS to sign up for the chess club and/or tournament. *** ADULT BADMINTON...Thursdays at 8:30 pm. Bring your own racket, and wear indoor runners. More info call 250-567-9908. *** MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE... advocating for better services in our communities, such as: housing, counseling, education and job opportunities. Meetings held on the second Thursday of each month via – video conferencing from the communities of; Burns Lake, Fraser Lake, Granisle, Ft. St. James, Southside and Vanderhoof. 1:30 – 3:00. In Vanderhoof meetings are held in the boardroom at the hospital. Clients, family members and community partners are invited to attend. Your voice is IMPORTANT. For more info on the committee and it’s works contact: Heather @ 250-692-7500. Or your Mental Health Service Provider *** The print syllabus for the NECHAKO VALLEY FESTIVAL OF PERFORMING ARTS is available for pickup at the Vanderhoof Library and Woody’s Bakery. You can also access the syllabus for all piano, speech arts and strings classes online at www.musicfestivalweb.com/nechako. The deadline for registration is Jan 11, 2016. Dates for the festival are Mar 7-20,2016. *** GIRL GUIDES... Sparks meets 5-6pm Mondays @ United Church. Brownies meets 6-7:30pmm Mondays @ United Church. Girl Guides meets 6-7:30pm, Mondays at St. Josephs Gym. Pathfinders meets 6-7:30pm Mondays @ Lutheran Church. For info on any of these please call Laura Freeman 250-567-6997. *** VA N D E R H O O F PA I N SELFMANAGEMENT GROUP... The People in Pain Network are hosting a monthly free pain self-management group meetings for people living with chronic pain and for those caring about a person living with pain. (The People in Pain Network a BC registered non-profit organization). Please visit our website at http://www.pipain.com/ vanderhoof.html Questions, please email us at Vanderhoof@pipain.com or call our toll-free number at 1-844-747-7246 *** VANDERHOOF AIR CADETS... Meetings - Tues 6:30-9:30 at the Gospel Chapel For more information call: 250-640-0218 or 250-570-7496 *** STUART NECHAKO MANOR...looking for volunteers. Help needed with outings, Serving meals, entertainment and visits for the residents. Please contact Marnie at 250 567 6290 for more information. *** VOLUNTEERS NEEDED....Would you like to become part of a team working together to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors? The Vanderhoof Stroke Recovery Group is looking for volunteers to join their team. Vanderhoof Stroke

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PICTURE THIS....Your activity could be featured in “Picture This.” Snap a photo at your groups’ fundraiser. It could be anything from a car wash to cleaning up our streets. It could even include school activities. Basically people making a difference in our community. Send us your photo by e-mail (advertising@ominecaexpress.com) or drop it off at the Omineca Express (150 W. Columbia Street). Please provide a brief description accompanied with the photo. This week’s submission....

VIVIAN CHUI photos

Biathlon competitors ski the final stretch during individual races on Saturday at Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s grounds. Recovery’s goal is to encourage stroke survivors to improve their lives through education, exercise, work groups, crafts, outings, etc. No special skills required; training and orientation are provided. Patience and caring understanding a necessity. Volunteers share responsibilities: assisting with activities, exercises, education, crafts, outings, fund raising. Time commitment: 3 hour meeting each Monday morning (excluding stat holidays), from September through mid-June. Please contact Penny (250) 567-3966 vanderhoofstrokerecovery@ gmail.com *** SENIORS CONNECTED... is looking for Seniors in need of Outreach & Transportation. We are also taking applications for Volunteers wanting to take part in the VSC Program. Vanderhoof Seniors Connected is a program dedicated to improving the quality of life for Seniors/Elders in our community through Companionship and Transportation Assistance. Phone 250-567-8587. For more information contact email at vanderhoofseniors@hotmail.com *** CALLING ALL SENIORS... come and join us for carpet bowling, pool or snooker Monday and Thursday afternoons at the Friendship Centre. We also have cards or bingo on Wednesday evenings. Music nights are also popular and these are the last Friday night of the month. Come and have some fun! Everybody welcome young or golden agers. Call Erling Clemmensen for more info: 250-567-9927. *** AL-ANON...Has your life been affected by someone elses drinking? The Al-Anon is for you! Meetings held on Mondays at 7pm in Community Room at Omineca Safe Home Society. For more information contact Gail at 567-4318. *** THE NORTHSIDE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE...meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Newcomers always welcome. For more information call Brenda, 250 5679705. *** V’HOOF HOSPICE SOCIETY... Do you have a few hours a month to give? Are you sensitive to the special needs of those persons at the end stages of life? Want to be part of a great organization that makes a difference in our community, then we are looking for you. The V’hoof Hospice Society is a not-for profit charity looking for new volunteer members. Our Society has a desire to help others. We are sensitive to the special needs of the dying patient and their families. We do not have personal agendas or “missions” to our Hospice work. Our main fundraising come in the form of donations to our Tree of Life. We are looking for new members to continue this great service. For more info call Valerie Pagdin at 250-567-6218 (weekdays), 250-567-3889 (evenings/weekends) or vanderhoofhospice@gmail.com *** THE FOOD BANK... is in serious need of food donations. Specifically the following is needed: “Chunky” soups and stews and canned milk. *** BADMINTON AT FLESS GYM... Every Thursday at 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. come out and have some fun! *** ENDAKO HALL SOCIETY... meets every THIRD Wednesday of the month in the hall

at 7:30pm. *** THE YELLOWHEAD DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION...is an organization for those interested in light and heavy horse driving. Monthly meetings every second Tuesday of the month. For more info contact: Jon 250-567-8484. *** NECHAKO QUILTERS GUILD... meets the third Tuesday of the month 9:30 am (Sept. - May) at Nechako View Seniors Common Room. Fran Sheeley 567-5254. *** THE FRASER QUILTERS GUILD... meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10am at the Fort Fraser Community Hall. Newcomers welcome. *** HOSPICE TREE OF LIFE... is to honour the living as well as to remember and honour those who have passed on. For more info call Valerie Pagdin at 250-567-6218 (weekdays), 250-567-3889 (evenings/ weekends) or vanderhoofhospice@gmail. com *** THE FRASER LAKE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP... meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 12 noon in Autumn Services. For further information call Judy at 250-6997763. *** VANDERHOOF 899 AIR CADET SQUADRON...Cadets will meet every TUESDAY night – 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the 480 Connaught St. at the Gospel Chapel. Anyone age 12 to 18 interested in the Cadet Program is welcome to attend. Any adult interested in assisting in anyway, please contact the officers at the 480 Connaught St. at the Gospel Chapel Tuesday night. For more information call: Capt. John Callaghan - 250-640-0218, Yvonne Melo - 250-690-7496 Evenings. *** AA MEETING... Wednesday, 8:00 p.m. United Church Hall. 567-8087 or 567-4588 *** FRASER LAKE AA MEETINGS... Tues & Thurs 8:00 p.m. at St. Wilfred’s Church just across from the Village Hall. *** ST. JOHN HOSPITAL AUXILIARY SOCIETY... meets second Tuesday of the month (with the exception of July & August) at 7:00 p.m. in the hospital cafeteria. For further info contact Edna 567-9759 - New members welcome. *** VANDERHOOF LIBRARY HOURS Tuesday 10:00am to 5:00pm Wednesday 10:00am to 5:00pm & 6:30pm to 8:30pm Thursday 10:00am to 5:00pm Friday 10:00 am to 6:00pm Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm *** FRASER LAKE LIBRARY HOURS Sunday & Monday Closed Tuesday 10am - 4pm Wednesday & Thursday 12pm - 8pm Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 2pm *** NVSS BOTTLE DEPOT HOURS Open Mon, Tues, Friday 11am-5pm Saturday 10am-5 p.m.

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

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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE

TRAVEL

6 January 2016

EMPLOYMENT

Reservoir Elevation: 852.19 m (2795.83 ft.) SLS Discharge: 30 m3/s

BUSINESS SERVICES PETS & LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE RENTALS AUTOMOTIVE ADULT ENTERTAINMENT LEGAL NOTICES

AGREEMENT It is agreed by any display or Classified Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. Used.ca cannot be responsible for errors after the first day of publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classified Department to be corrected for the following edition. Used.ca reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the Used.ca Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

COPYRIGHT Copyright and/or properties subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of Used.ca. Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

ON THE WEB:

CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canadabeneﬁt.ca/free-assessment CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canada beneﬁt.ca/free-assessment

Visit website www.waterofﬁce.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time ﬂow information for the Nechako River. Visit website http://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/data/asp/realtime/basin_upperfraser.htm for up to date snow pack information. Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-5675105 for more information. A recording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250567-5812

Classiﬁeds Get Results!

HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in Walking/Dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply Today For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372. HIP OR Knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in Walking/Dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply Today For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

Career Opportunities

Timeshare

Obituaries

WIENS, Rick On December 23, 2015, Mr. Rick Wiens of Mayerthorpe, AB, formerly of Vanderhoof, BC, passed away at the age of 68 years. The following will carry his memory, wife, Jeanette; son, Paul Wiens of Mayerthorpe, AB; daughter, Heather (Sergio) Cucovaz of Vanderhoof; grandchildren, Stephanie (Brad) Manwaring and Derek Cucovaz, both of Vanderhoof; godson, Jason (Danielle) Nosek of Aldergrove, BC; sister, Dorothy Wiens; brother, Jake (Jan) Wiens; and many dear relatives and friends. Predeceased by parents, Peter and Ann; and sister, Linda. Thank you to Dr. Aird and the staff of the Mayerthorpe Healthcare Centre for their kindness and the care provided for Rick. Cremation has taken place. No services will be held. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.

Abe Wiebe August 2, 1938 January 1, 2016

On January 1, 2016 while in the Vanderhoof hospital, Abe went home to be with his Lord. He is survived by his children, Dale Wiebe, Troy Wiebe, Rodney Wiebe, Vicky Nelson, and Misty Wiebe. He is also survived by a brother John Wiebe, sisters Mary Price, Marg (Abe) Klassen, as well as many grandchildren, a great granddaughter, many nieces, nephews and friends. A memorial is planned for January 16 at noon at the Nechako View Seniors Complex in the Common Room at 241 Northside Rd., Vanderhoof. BC.

Employment

Become a Long Off-Highway Logging Trucks Required for Selkin Logging. Super hero! Business Opportunities in

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Employment

Bakery Manager Join our Team! We are currently seeking a full time Manager, responsible for all day to day aspects of the bakery department. If you have exemplary customer service skills and previous management / leadership experience in a food retail environment we would like to hear from you! • Gross profit, wage cost, operational expenses & inventory • Ordering, merchandising, sales programs,& customer service • Hiring , training, on-going developmental & motivation of the team • Baking experience and Cake decorating

Become Donate! a Super hero! Donate!

To Apply Please E-mail Resume Attention Jim: mon01883@loblaw.ca Thank you for your interest, however due to the volume of resumes only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.

Western Forest Products is seeking two

Sawmill Supervisors

Cowichan Bay Mill • Chemainus Mill Reporting to the Sawmill Superintendent, the candidate will be responsible for safety, employee relations, quality, production, costs, and grade recovery of their assigned crew. A strong understanding of applicable WorkSafeBC Regulations and industry collective agreements with the United Steelworkers is required. The candidate will have a strong personal commitment to safe work practices, a sound work ethic, excellent communication skills, a working knowledge of MSOffice, a lumber grading certificate with strong knowledge of coastal grades/species, and supervisory experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting. To apply, please visit our online job postings at http://www.jobs.net/jobs/westernforest/en-ca/all-jobs/ As only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, we thank you in advance for your interest in our company.

Say yes and change a child’s Say yes and life today. change a child’s life today.

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Omineca Express Wednesday, January 13, 2016

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Employment

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Merchandise for Sale

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Education/Trade Schools

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SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - make money and save money with your own bandmill - cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info and DVD:

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One bedroom, self sufﬁcient senior 65+. One person $650 per month. Two persons $750 per month. Under 65 $850 per month. Call Karmen 250-570-2561

Vanderhoof 2bdrm house for rent. All appliances 5 miles from town. N/S, N/P. Ref & D.D required. $1000.00 mth Hydro/Heat included. (250)567-5306 or 567-8405 (cell). Available Immediately

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day. www.canscribe.com. 1-800-466-1535 or email to: info@canscribe.com. HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day. www.canscribe.com. 1-800-466-1535. info@canscribe.com MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today! START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765 TRAIN TO be an apartment/condo manager. Many jobs registered with us. Good wages and beneﬁts. Government Certiﬁed online course. 35 Years of success! www.RMTI.ca/enq

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Business/Ofﬁce Service HAVE YOU been denied Canada Pension Plan disability beneﬁts? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222 or visit www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca

Plumbing FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

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Large 1 Bdrm from

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For Rent: Apartments 1 bedrm furnished, 1 person $850.month 2 people $950. month. Cable, heat, etc. no internet 10% rent reduction age 65 or over $15. month extra for plug in. Security deposit $425. must have 1st month rent and d/d, or don’t apply. No pets. 292 Loop Rd. Vanderhoof. No Parties, loud noise or drugs this is grounds for Immediate eviction. Phone 250-570-2561.

House for sale $289,000. located at 344 Seyfort Drive. Fully finished 4 bedroom, 1130sq.ft. per floor with finished basement. Full bath up and down. Gas heat, hot water and shingles upgraded in last 5 years. Home is located on a large town lot and comes with an adjacent deed lot for yard and investment. Phone 250-567-8004.

For Rent: 3 bedroom house. Telegraph Rd, Fort Fraser wood heat, $700/mth Call Don 250-570-1256

FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Tenders

HOUSE FOR SALE: House located behind the Vanderhoof Co-op Bulk Plant for sale. Must be removed by May 1, 2016. To view the house call Glenn at (250) 567-4414.

Misc Services

Successful bidder must include 10% deposit. Deposit will be forfeited if the house is not removed by May 1, 2016.

Advertise your goods and services in the Classifieds and reach hundreds of potential buyers daily. Call today to place your ad and make a sale quickly.

MAKE YOUR POINTOF-SALE

Houses For Sale

3/bdrm townhouses: familyfriendly complex, near schools & park. No smoking, no pets. $760/mth. 250-567-4430

250-567-4048 or 250-567-9080

Misc Services

in the classifieds!

Homes for Rent

* Balconies * Landscaped View * Cablevision Available

in the classifieds!

Find Your Dream Home

Townhouses

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Misc. for Sale REFORESTATION NURSERY seedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free Shipping. Replacement guarantee. Call 1-866-873-3846 or visit www.treetime.ca

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Real Estate

Merchandise for Sale

Large 2 Bdrm from

Silvermill Apartments

250-567-9258

Bids close at 4:00PM on January 18, 2016. The accepted bid may not necessarily be the highest bid or any bid.

Submit bids to: Glenn Currie, Controller Vanderhoof and Districts Co-op PO Box 560 188 East Stewart Street Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

VANDERHOOF AND AREA BUSINESS DIRECTORY

EXCAVATING PRAIRIEDALE EXCAVATING Tandem dump truck, 4x4 Backhoe, gravel sales, general hauling, foundations, water & sewer lines and snow removal.

PLUMBING

CIE 0697864 BC Ltd.

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Commercial and Industrial Plumbing and HVAC Heavy Water and Civil Construction Water Treatment and Filtration Systems

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All jobs BIG or small, give us a call!

ADVERTISING

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ADVERTISING

ADvertiser STUART NECHAKO

Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972

Reaching Every Door

Pam Berger Publisher

Serving Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake

Pam Berger Publisher

250-996-8482 Advertising: advertising@ominecaexpress.com News: newsroom@caledoniacourier.com Website: www.caledoniacourier.com

150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

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150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

SPORTS

Ski, aim, shoot: first B.C. biathlon of the season in Vanderhoof Vivian Chui Omineca Express 2016’s first B.C. Cup competition for biathlon took place at the Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s ski trails this weekend. Nearly 70 athletes from Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel, Smithers, Burns Lake, as well as Rossland in the Kootenay region and the Lower Mainland attended the two-day event of cross-country skiing and shooting. Including young athletes from age eight to older competitors aged over 50, it’s also the first out of three selection races for teams competing in national championships in March, said Paul Collard, director of NVSA. Seven boys and girls in total from Vanderhoof’s Nechako Nordics Club participated in individual and sprint races on Saturday and Sunday respectively: Cody Vanwerkhoven, Connor Ebert, Zachary Whitecotton, Nicole McBride, Kyla Vanwerkhoven, Linnea Moutray, and Sara McBride. Involving the mastery of slow breathing and control while shooting, as well as endurance and speed while skiing, biathlon athletes benefit from starting young when learning how to shoot, said Sheldon Clare, 2015 Canada Winter Games’s sport information officer for biathlon. “They can learn to better quickly,” Clare said, adding that oftentimes good skiers are enlisted to learn to shoot in order to join biathlon. For competitor Liam Connon, 13, from Prince George, the challenge of skiing and shooting is enjoyable, though he likes skiing more, he said. Started training for biathlon when he was 10, Connon qualified to compete in the upcoming BC Winter Games, which will take place in Penticton in Februrary. “Last time it happened, I wasn’t old enough,” Connon said. “I’m really excited…there’s some people who are really fast that I have to compete against.” Along with races in the winter, Connon currently trains in the summer by roller-skiing, running, as well as exercising in core strength sessions, he said. Results of Vanderhoof’s Nechako Nordics Club Saturday individual events: *All shooting is done prone, with each miss adding one minute to the competitor’s final time for rankings.

Cody Vanwerkhoven won third place in the juvenile category, skiing four kilometres in 18 minutes and 39 seconds, with five misses. In the junior boys category, Connor Ebert won seventh place, skiing six kilometres in 30 minutes and eight seconds, with seven misses. Zachary Whitecotton, at ninth place, finished the race in 33 minutes and 49 seconds, with 10 misses. In the junior girls category, Nicole McBride won third place, skiing six kilometres in 32 minutes and five seconds, with eight misses. Kyla Vanwerkhoven followed in fifth place, with 34 minutes and 24 seconds and seven misses. Linnea Moutray, ranked sixth, finished the race with 33 minutes and 25 seconds, but had nine misses. Sunday sprint events: *For each missed shot, competitors ski a penalty loop of 75 or 150 metres, depending on the category Cody Vanwerkhoven won fourth place in the juvenile category, skiing three kilometres and five penalty loops in 15 minutes and 13 seconds. In the junior boys category, Connor Ebert was placed eighth, skiing 4.5 kilometres and seven penalty loops in 25 minutes and 58 seconds. Zachary Whitecotton followed in ninth place, skiing with seven penalty loops as well in 27 minutes and 13 seconds. In the junior girls category, Nicole McBride finished fourth place, skiing 4.5 kilometres with five penalty loops in 24 inures and 38 seconds. Linnea Moutray followed in fifth place with 26 minutes and 13 seconds, including six penalty loops. Kyla Vanwerkhoven was placed sixth at 29 minutes and 22 seconds, including seven penalty loops. Sara McBride was the sole competitor in the youth women category, skiing six kilometres in 35 minutes and eight seconds, with eight misses in shooting prone and standing.

VIVIAN CHUI photos

Top left: Biathlon competitors ready rifles and aim for a round of shooting during individual races on Saturday at Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s grounds. Top right: Nicole McBride skis the final stretch of her 4.5-kilometre race on Sunday. Above: Linnea Moutray (left) watches the timer for her start on Sunday.

New lighting for Nechako Nordics Club A two kilometer lighted ski trail at the Nechako Valley Sporting Association grounds has been upgraded thanks to support from the federal Gas Tax Fund. The lighting for the original one-andhalf kilometer trail has been replaced with energy efficient LED lights. Additional lighting has also been installed, adding another half kilometer to the existing lit trails. By placing the wiring for the lights underground, the project will eliminate the costly and disruptive effects of fallen trees. “The completion of this project will see the valuable resource of outdoor winter recreation assured into the next 20 years for the Nechako Valley,” said Paul Collard, director Nechako Valley Sporting Association. The $90,511.06 project was completed with $51,638.97 from the federal Gas Tax Fund and with $35,000 from the NechakoKitamaat Development Foundation. The

remaining costs were covered by an energy saving incentive grant from BC Hydro. “Congratulations to all the partners in this project for supporting improvements to an important recreational resource enjoyed by Nechako Valley residents and visitors,” said John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes. “This successful investment demonstrates the practical community-level benefits achieved through the Gas Tax Fund. New lighting will help ensure that people can continue to get together for healthy, outdoor exercise and have fun safely on the ski trails.” Jerry Petersen, electoral area “F” director of Regional District of Bulkley Nechako, said, “Recreation is a very important part of the economy in our area to retain families and to recruit new families to the area. The Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s Ski Trail lighting Project will expand the recreation potential year round.”