Vanderhoof Omineca Express, February 10, 2016

Inside

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WAS THE HOCKEY VISOR INVENTED

BY A VANDERHOOF BEAR?

POLICE UPDATE P. 3 MAYOR GERRY THIESSEN P. 7

FIND OUT MORE ON PAGE 2

E xpress OMINECA

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Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Fraser Lake fatal run-over

Dancing for kindness: calling for community support on Pink Shirt Day

SUBMITTED photo

In 2013, W. L. McLeod Elementary school students performed a flash mob in downtown Vanderhoof, recorded in video, for antibullying on Pink Shirt Day. This year, Vanderhoof’s got bigger plans for all to participate, said event organizer Kim Worthington.

See page 8

An Alberta man died while trying to fix his logging truck in Fraser Lake on Jan. 31.

The BC Coroners Service identified the man as Jacob Wadsworth Low, 23, from Mannville, Alberta — a small community about 170 kilometres east of Edmonton.

In Jan. 31 early afternoon, Low and his co-worker were driving an empty logging truck along the Holy Cross logging road into a camp south of Fraser Lake.

They stopped to deal with the truck’s mechanical difficulties, in the process of which Low was run over by the truck. He died on scene.

Investigations on the death are continuing by the BC Coroners Service, WorkSafeBC, and RCMP. Low’s family has been notified, BC Coroners Service states.

BID Group selected to deliver $80-million state-of-the-art mill for Biewer Lumber St. George, South Carolina, February 3, 2016 – BID Group of Companies (“BID Group”) is proud to announce its selection

by Biewer Lumber (“Biewer”) to deliver a state-of-the-art turnkey mill in Newton, Mississippi. Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2016 and will continue throughout the year with mill production scheduled for the second quarter of 2017.

The successful execution of the project will require the combined efforts of BID Group’s facilities located throughout North America.

The Newton mill will be Biewer’s first in the South. BID Group is excited to be part of Biewer’s expansion and the benefits that the project and the operations will provide for both the company and the community.

The Newton sawmill will feature state-ofthe-art technologies specifically designed, supplied, and installed by the BID Group including a Comact optimized log bucking system, a Comact saw line with profiling systems, and a fully-automated mill outfeed.

The planer mill will be equipped with the

all-new Miller high speed planer, a Comact GradExpertTM and a fully-automated mill outfeed specialized in cut-in-two handling.

Lumber drying will utilize continuous kiln technology provided through two Deltech dual path kilns.

The Biewer project is the result of BID Group’s expansion strategy in the Southern United States. Since 2013, BID Group’s business focus has been to establish a southern regional base consisting of a local manufacturing facility with the ability to offer re-

gionally based after-sales services.

BID Group now has a world class complex in South Carolina in addition to thirteen other facilities spread across the continent to better serve regional needs while reducing geographical costs and barriers.

“BID Group thanks Biewer Lumber for the opportunity to supply and install the Newton sawmill as well as the opportunity to establish a strong relationship with both Biewer and the community of Newton,” said BID Group CEO Alistair Cook.

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Former Vanderhoof Bear claims first visor Vivian Chui Omineca Express A Vanderhoof Bear alumnus may have created the first hockey visor.

Ken Clay, defenceman and captain of Vanderhoof’s hockey team in the 1960s, first glued Plexiglas to a hockey helmet after suffering from an eye injury in January of 1964, he said.

“I got a hockey stick in the eye, and I wasn’t wearing a helmet at that time at all,” Clay recalled.

The Vanderhoof Bears were playing against the Prince George Mohawks at the city’s coliseum, and Clay was immediately flown to Vancouver to be hospitalized for a month.

“When they finally let me out, I went down to a sport store, picked up a Cooper helmet, and the only glass I found was Plexiglas,” he explained, referring to a full face shield for goaltenders that was strapped to a headband. “I still wanted to play hockey for awhile…have to

“They used to call me the guy with the wraparound windshield,” - Ken Clay protect my other eye.”

Two years later, Clay was awarded the George Allen Trophy as the top defenceman of the Cariboo Hockey League.

“They used to call me the guy with the wraparound windshield,” Clay said.

Former Vanderhoof mayor Len Fox was the team’s goaltender at that time, though he joined the Vanderhoof Bears after Clay’s injury, Fox said.

“Helmets weren’t required; I played goal without a mask,” he explained.

“It was limited protection in those years.”

Clay was one of the few, if not the only one, on the team who wore a helmet, though more and more players started to wear head protection in the following decade, Fox recalled.

In 1971, through Fox, Clay’s visor was lent to then 13-year-old Larry Playfair, who played for Vanderhoof’s Peewee hockey team at the time.

Playfair eventually played for the Buffalo Sabres and Los Angeles Kings

Reprinted from the Nechako Chronicle February 10, 1966.

Ken Clay and his mask are depicted in the centre. in the NHL, retiring from a 22-year career of professional hockey in 1990.

Though helmets weren’t mandatory for professional players until 1978, they were required for minor hockey participants, and he wanted extra protection after suffering from a broken nose and a broken jaw in separate incidents, Playfair recalled.

“When you were 13 years old, and you go through this, you don’t think anything of it,” he said. “Now looking back…

I wished I asked Ken more questions about him doing this and making this and how he came up with it.

“It intrigued me 40 or 50 years later, and I’m appreciative that he allowed me the chance to wear it.”

However, this claim for the original hockey visor is contested by former Toronto Marlboros defenceman Greg Neeld.

As reported by the Toronto Star in 2013, Neeld states that he wore the “first” hockey visor — created by his father, former Air Canada pilot — after a permanent eye injury in December of 1973.

Clay is not looking for a patent, though he would like to be on record for being “the first one to have put it together,” he said.

“I would like that down in the history of hockey…maybe not the Hall of Fame.”

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Omineca Express Wednesday, February 10, 2016

INSIDE NEWS the

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Gathering community suppport for rodeo youth Historical display for 50th fall fair The Nechako Valley Exhibition is celebrating its 50th this year and the Women’s Institute its 75th.

Those with historical pictures and articles of the event are welcome to contact Deborah Weaver at dwnechako@msn.com or 250-567-4032.

In the past week, the local RCMP detachment lodged 78 calls.

Comparing the past month with January 2015 In Vanderhoof, total police calls in the first month of the New Year has risen from 281 in last January to 312 this year.

In particular, the number of impaired drivers increased from one last year to 12 this January — a positive statistic that points more to increased RCMP enforcement, than the rise in impaired driving, said Sgt. Svend Nielsen.

“Members have been very proactive; it shows commitment from the local detachment,” Nielsen said. “One of our main priorities is impaired driving and traffic.”

Another focus of Vanderhoof’s RCMP is its crime reduction program for repeating offenders.

The total number of files lodged on breaching conditions was seven last year, while 34 was lodged this January.

“We have a top 11 list of priority offenders,” Nielsen said. “Top six are all in custody.”

Contributing to the volume of Vanderhoof’s police files, the chronic offenders are mostly involved with assaults, complaints, as well as potential drug trafficking.

New ski trails for Fraser Lake The Village of Fraser Lake received a Northern Health IMAGINE Grant in the sum of $4,950.

We have used the funds to purchase a snowmobile and classic ski track setter.

Trails have been set on the Mouse Mountain walking trails from the Fraser Lake highway sign on the east side of town and a double oval has been set on the soccer fields. We hope you enjoy them. Please be considerate and stay off them with snow shoes and snowmobiles.

Fraser Lake Tots Around Town A time for parents/ caregivers to come together and support one another while sharing positive experiences around town and through a variety of activities bonding with their preschoolers.

Drop-in every Wednesday 10:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m from Feb. 3 to March 23, with beverages and snacks.

Feb. 10 Hand/Foot Print Craft CNC/Learning Centre Feb. 17 Storytime Fraser Lake Library Feb. 24 Families in the Kitchen CNC/Learning Centre March 2 Braids, Hair Care, Pictures & Dress Up! Arena Complex (downstairs)

Police Update: January numbers up from 2015

- with files from Sgt. Svend Nielsen, Vanderhoof RCMP VIVIAN CHUI photo

Riley Beier, 11, presented some of her prize buckles, as well her saddle award as the 2015 Pee Wee barrel-racing champion, at the Nechako Valley Rodeo Association’s crowdfunding campaign kickoff on Feb. 3.

Story to come next week.

Mining companies can now defer part of hydro bill: B.C. WILLIAMS LAKE - Minister of Energy and Mines Bill Bennett today announced action to help keep thousands of B.C.’s metal and coal mines workers on the job by allowing mining companies to temporarily defer a portion of their hydro bills - supporting families and communities during the current slowdown in the sector due to low commodity prices.

“Rural communities across B.C. depend on the high-paying jobs that their mines provide residents,” said Bennett. “We are in the midst of a challenging time for the sector and this will provide some temporary support to help the mines stay open as long as possible, hopefully until commodity prices bounce back.”

Under the five-year term of the program, which will be delivered by BC Hydro, companies operating metal and coal mines in B.C. will be able to defer a portion of their BC Hydro electricity payments.

The amount any mine will be allowed to defer is capped at the equivalent of up to 75% of its electricity costs over two years of the program. As commodity prices recover, the mines will repay the amounts deferred, plus interest.

“With Family Day right around the corner, I think it’s important to remember that mining provides thousands of families with good paying jobs,” said Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. “This industry is the economic lifeblood of many communities in this province.”

Low copper and coal prices have put operations at a number of British Columbia mines at risk and some have already been forced to reduce production and employee levels. There are currently eight metal mines and five coal mines operating in the province, employing approximately 7,500 workers.

Advance Public Notice Load Restrictions

Pursuant to Section 66 of the Transportation Act, and to provisions of the Commercial Transport Act, notice is hereby given that load restrictions may be placed on short notice in the near future on all highways within the Fort George District, Service Area 23, Nechako.

The restrictions will limit vehicles to 100 per cent, 80 per cent, 70 per cent or 50 per cent legal axle loading.

Overweight permits will not be granted and all term overweight permits are invalid for the duration of the restrictions.

Trucking and transportation companies, as well as the general public, should govern themselves accordingly.

If you normally receive bulk deliveries of water, fuel, livestock feed or other produce, please plan ahead so interruption to your deliveries will be minimized.

Your cooperation in adhering to the above regulations is appreciated.

Dated in Prince George, British Columbia, this 2nd day of February, 2016.

Ron Marshall, District Manager Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Fort George District For more information about load restrictions, please contact the District Operations Technician Cathy Melenka at 250 565-7014 or visit the Load Restrictions section of www.DriveBC.ca.

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B.C. union signs First Nations solidarity accord against tar sands pipelines and tankers laration, which demonstrates the resolve of First Nations in of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, stated: “BCGEU’s enrefusing consent for Northern Gateway.” dorsement of the Save the Fraser Declaration is indicative The Solidarity Accord, which has also been signed by that more and more Canadians are committing to respect other labour unions such as Unifor and the BC Teachers’ the laws and authority of First Nations and their efforts to Federation, as well as business, environmental and commu- protect the environment, fisheries and the health and safety nity groups, was spearheaded by the Yinka Dene Alliance, of all BC communities from Enbridge’s Northern Gateway whose members’ territories represent 25% of the proposed and other tar sands projects. Premier Clark and Prime MinNorthern Gateway pipeline route. ister Trudeau be advised: the proposed Enbridge Northern “We have never wavered from upholding our own laws Gateway is dead, dead, dead. We call on you to stand with and our conclusion that the risks are too great to allow Enus, and to work with us to come up with alternatives for bridge’s Northern Gateway and similar tar sands projects to real change.” cross our territories,” said Chief Stanley Thomas of Saik’uz First Nation.

“It has been heartening to see how strongly we are supported by people throughout Canada,” said Nak’azdli Chief Fred Sam. “To have the BC Government and Service Employees’ Union An estimated 9,800 people will die of cancer in British Columbia in standing alongside us is a welcome this year, and 23,300 new cases will be diagnosed. It would be safe reminder of that.” to say that cancer is a serious problem in our lives today so the next Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President few articles are going to be all about cancer – what it is – how to

VIVIAN CHUI photo

Nechako Valley Sporting Association’s ski trails welcomed cross-country skiers from throughout the province for 2016’s first B.C. Cup competition for biathlon on Jan. 9.

Skiing for the club: x-country race to come The fifth and last race of the Teck Northern Cup is coming to Vanderhoof’s cross-country ski trails on Feb. 27.

Hosted by the Nechako Nordics Cross Country Ski Club, the 2016 Teck Northern Cup #5 at the Nechako Valley Sporting Association trails is designed for racers of all levels and ages.

As the last race of the event series, the Club Aggregate Award will be presented at the end of racing day.

Points for each participating club have been

collected throughout the season by not only each skier who completes the race, but also the number of participants in an interval start race, as well as their placement during the event.

Skiing will start at 11 a.m., with ceremony for individual awards to follow after all races on Saturday.

Registration is available online on www.zone4. ca. More information can also be found through Chief of Competition Wanda Nemethy at wnemethy@sd91.bc.ca.

HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVE THERAPY BY MAGDALENA SAITO

The BC Government and Service Employees’ Union (BCGEU) signed a Solidarity Accord Friday, affirming its support of the Save the Fraser Declaration, an Indigenous law signed by representatives of well over 100 First Nations banning tar sands transport through their territories.

The addition of the 65,000 member union (about a third of whom work in direct government service) to a growing alliance of tar sands pipeline opponents, puts additional pressure on the BC government as it prepares to respond to a recent Supreme Court ruling requiring it to make a decision on Northern Gateway and to consult First Nations before doing so.

“We agree with the recent ruling of the BC Supreme Court that the Province has not met its duty to consult First Nations on Enbridge’s Northern Gateway,” said Paul Finch, Treasurer of the BC Government and Service Employees’ Union. “Provincial decision-making on Northern Gateway is an issue that impacts BCGEU members, and we believe deeply that staunch opposition from First Nations cannot be ignored by governments in dealing with these types of proposals. We are proud to support the Save the Fraser Dec-

What is Cancer - and how does it develop?

prevent etc. Collect them all to create your own information library.

Cancer is not a contagious disease; you do not need to worry about ‘catching’ the disease. Cancer originates inside the body as a result of several mutations of a cell which have numerous causes: tobacco smoking – prolonged exposure to radiation (especially UV from the sun)- Asbestos – Carcinogens and free radicals (are known to cause mutations)- some viruses – genetic mutations and even chronic inflammation.

Normal cells grow, die off, or get replaced with newer, younger, stronger cells. The first step of cancer development is a small change in the DNA of a cell (a mutation) which leads to an altered genetic makeup so that when the cell is copied to replace an older cell, a damaged copy is made, and that copy is copied and the cancerous cells start to grow in numbers, leading to abnormal tissue growth. (remember it usually takes several mutations for cancer to take hold) Cancers reputation for being deadly is a generalization. There are many different types of cancer, and the damage they do, their course of treatment, and risk of death are dependent on where they originate and what type they are. Tumors are a common cancer sign; They are the collections of abnormal cell growth and they can be either benign or malignant. Benign tumors grow but do not spread into other areas, they seem to be contained and at times after growing to a certain size they simply stop, often these are not dangerous and can at time be surgically removed without any adverse effects. Malignant tumors however, spread more widely and often into other tissues & other areas. Worst case malignancies are the spread of cancer into the lymphatic area, bone or when they develop their own blood supply (they then get fed nutrients and grow at a rapid pace). Malignant cancers most often affects a patients quality of life, and many treatments have side effects; patients may need extensive care.

Types of cancer are named on where it originates. Carcinoma from epithelial cells– leukemia from bone marrow or stem cells Lymphoma in lymphatic tissues – sarcoma from connective tissue, bone or muscle etc. In Children cancers are usually due to genetic processes that have failed many have a high success rate of survival.

Often cancer is discovered when checking for a different illness altogether. Some signs and symptoms of cancer: ◗ Local symptoms: unusual swelling, bleeding, jaundice ◗ Metastasis: enlarged glands, cough, enlarged liver, bone pain, fracture of bones, neurological symptoms ◗ Systemic: weight loss, poor appetite, excessive sweating, hormonal changes

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Carrier Sekani Tribal Council signs agreement with B.C.: bigger say in forestry decisions Flavio Nienow Lake District News

Submitted illustration

Map outlining the implementation area for the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC) agreement with the province. The agreement allows CSTC to work directly with the province on the development of natural resources within CSTC territory.

Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC) had signed an agreement with the province to have a bigger say in the province’s decision-making process.

As part of the agreement, CSTC is currently in negotiations with the province to have a greater role in the timber supply process. The Burns Lake Band is currently a part of CSTC and is therefore a part of the agreement.

Terry Teegee, Tribal Chief of CSTC, said CSTC wants to have a greater influence on the decisions made by the province on things such as how much timber is harvested and the definition of harvest boundaries.

“Our people need to be informed before big decisions are made,” he said.

The combined territories of the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council under this agreement accounts for approximately 80,000 square kilometres in north-central B.C. The member First Nations of the CSTC include the Burns Lake Band, Nak’azdli Band, Nadleh Whut’en, Saik’uz First Nation, Stellat’en First Nation, Takla Lake First Nation, Tl’azt’en Nation and Wet’suwet’en First Nation.

Teeggee said CSTC wants to play the role of a “facilitator” between the province and the member nations of the CSTC, proving guidance and direction when it comes to forestry decisions.

The CSTC has been seeking collaboration with all levels of government to ensure that decision-making, revenue-sharing and environmental practices include those that protect CSTC’ rights and interests.

B.C.: graduate success survey now online VICTORIA - Ever wonder what forSurvey is from 2014. of questions related to their educational mer post-secondary students are doing a Data for the dashboard comes from experiences, subsequent employment and couple of years after graduating? surveys of former students of 20 British further education.

Whether considering a degree, diColumbia public post-secondary instituDashboard can offer results by survey ploma or certificate, students can now tions. These former students are asked a year, as well as multi-year results. easily take into consideration regional series employment data and what former students Presented by: said about programs before deciding what institution or program Winter Festival to apply to attend.

Students visiting the BC Student Outcomes Purified Dashboard (http:// 10 days of winter festivities!

Drinking ow.ly/WeK8R) have access to graphical snapWater PLUS a Plaza Party on Feb 13th including: shots of demographic ] Demineralized + Concerts on the BCLC Centre Stage and employment data, + Free admission to Two Rivers Gallery ] Sales & as well as evaluation + Food trucks Rentals of post-secondary + Fireworks programs by former students.

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The collaboration agreement - signed in April 2015 - allows CSTC to work directly with the province on the development of natural resources within CSTC territory such as natural gas pipelines, mining, fish and wildlife and forestry.

“This agreement provides the opportunity to develop mutually agreeable resource development plans for the Carrier Sekani territory for the continued benefit of all,” said Teegee.

According to the province, the collaboration agreement will ensure CSTC’s input is recognized and incorporated into natural resource development, including regulatory processes.

John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, said the agreement marked the beginning of a new, positive government-to-government relationship between the province and CSTC.

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MEETING SCHEDULE 2016 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 RDBN Board of Directors will be discussing the draft 2016 to 2020 Financial Plan at its Committee of the Whole Meetings on February 11 and March 10, 2016.

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OPINION

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

The growing price of vegetables Jim McGregor Black Press I overheard two gentleman talking and one stated that he always gave his wife expensive flowers for Valentine’s Day so this year he was giving her cauliflower. Every time we turn on the news lately, we see someone standing in a grocery store shaking their head at the cost of lettuce.

Now, two heads are not better than one.

The ‘experts’ try to get us to believe that the cost of veggies is rising because of the falling dollar and transportation costs but we’ll never know if that is true or not. So much goes on in board rooms across the continent that we will never know about, and prices of commodities are raised at a whim.

People talk about the old days when they paid 25 cents a gallon for gas but they were only making a buck and a half an hour.

If you prepared a chart for cost of food and fuel against wages over the years you would see we are not really any worse or better off than we were back then.

The big difference is that very few people have a vegetable garden plot in their backyard or a root cellar where they can store their produce over the winter.

The big conglomerates are very aware of this and so they have us at their mercy.

Many nights one of us kids was sent out to the root house to get carrots or potatoes or preserves of some sort. Nobody jumped in the car and drove down to the corner grocery store to get food for dinner.

There is always controversy about the conditions the vegetables are grown in today. Pesticides, hormones and what else might be applied, but if nothing is applied and they are grown ‘organically’ they are more expensive.

Figure that out.

Recently, it was announced that an Okanagan farmer has developed an apple that won’t turn brown after it is cut open.

Why is this important to anyone? The critics shout that this is genetic altering and should not be allowed.

Did we not cause a huge problem in the beginning by playing with an apple when we had been told to leave it alone?

Obviously we are slow learners. Can we soon expect bananas that stay yellow forever or multi colored eggs that come straight from the chickens at Easter?

I was raised on vegetables grown in rich brown dirt mixed with chicken or steer manure and I have no idea if that is considered organic or not. I just remember there being plenty for our family

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and anyone else who came around in the fall. If you stopped at our house to ask directions, you left with a bag full of zucchinis, tomatoes and Swiss chard.

If you calculate what you spend on your lawn each year you may be surprised how much it costs to make your yard look nice for the neighbours.

Consider digging it all up and planting vegetables this year and encourage your neighbours to do the same.

I recall many a fine cup of coffee shared over the fence comparing the height of my corn with my neighbour’s crop.

We old timers have seen the dollar go up and down, the prices of food and gas go up and down, over and over again.

You can complain in vain or go with the flow.

The good times will come back, they always do.

At least that’s what McGregor says.

Aboriginal families prepare for B.C. inquiry on missing women Tom Fletcher Black Press About 500 family members of missing and murdered indigenous women met with B.C. cabinet ministers this week to prepare for a national inquiry promised by the Trudeau government.

“It was very moving, I think, for the families, in terms of giving families opportunities to provide their voice, to tell their stories about what happened,” B.C. Aboriginal Relations Minister John Rustad said after three days of meetings in Prince George.

“It was a good exercise for us and it’s information that we will now take forward to the national roundtable coming up later in February in Winnipeg, as well as to B.C.’s input towards the national inquiry for missing and murdered indigenous women.”

Also attending were Justice Minister Suzanne Anton and Public Safety Minister Mike Morris,

who served as North District Superintendent for the RCMP before being elected MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie in 2013.

Relations with police and domestic violence were among the most sensitive issues discussed.

“There were a lot of challenges that were raised in working with the RCMP in terms of some of the follow-up and other components, and so we have a lot of follow-up work to do with the families as well as with police in general,” Rustad said.

On domestic violence in aboriginal communities, he referred to the annual Gathering of Men organized by Paul Lacerte, executive director of the B.C. Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres. It distributes symbolic moose hide patches.

“Women are bearing the burden of abuse, but they also have to bear the burden of advocacy to affect change, and this is a man’s problem as much as it is a woman’s problem,” Lacerte said at last year’s Valentine’s Day rally at the B.C. legislature. “Violence towards women and children has never been a part of our culture.”

Lacerte said across Canada, aboriginal women aged 15 and older are three times more likely to experience violence and be assaulted by their partners than non-aboriginal women.

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Mayor: 2016, pivotal year for Vanderhoof pool Through water and fire, 2015 is a year where the Vanderhoof community has worked together — whether it is for community events or larger projects such as the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre, says Vanderhoof’s mayor.

As Vanderhoof settles into the New Year, Mayor Gerry Thiessen chatted with the Omineca Express on highlights for 2015 and upcoming projects for the community.

The district council is making long-term decisions that will not be solutions today, and then problems tomorrow, Thiessen said.

there’s a shortfall of hotels.

Those are some of the areas that we’re working on.

Q: What are your thoughts on Vanderhoof’s economic situation, such as the closure of mills in nearby communities and the low price of metals?

A: I don’t believe that you were here last year when we went through the election. That was the sad part at that time, we spent a lot of time dealing on very small issues. There are some big issues in our community. Certainly the whole thing about sustainability, where the mid-term supply of timber will come from in our area. I work very diligently, many hours in the week, to understand that and advocate for the employees of our sawmills. I understand the value that those people bring, and when you see other mills that are closed, it makes you realize that you need to diversify.

Q: Vivian Chui, Omineca Express A: Mayor Gerry Thiessen, District of Vanderhoof Q: What were the highlights for Vanderhoof in 2015?

A: How we’ve really evolved into more and more of a community. I look at all the events that we have for the community, where Concert in the Park has gone, how it’s done.

Movie in the Park this year in the fall really became a community event; people embrace it. You can just list so many things that our community has done. I think of Shirley Bond (MLA for Prince George-Valemount and B.C. Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, and Minister Responsible for Labour), when she was here for her visit in the fall.

She said, “You don’t know that you’re a small community; you’re doing things in your community that larger centres would do.” Once we sat down and realized how many of those things we are involved in, it was quite neat to see.

People are taking the challenge in doing different jobs in the community. To us, that would be a real plus; things that are going to make our community sustainable. I think we as council have really worked hard on things that are going to have long-lasting implications for us as a town.

We’ve worked long and hard to have a community forest.

We have, in this past week, received a letter from the Province, that gave us the go-ahead. That’s something that’s going to have long-lasting benefits for the community in things that we sense are important to us. We’re a forest community, we have a place that has values, whether it’s ski trails that are going to be around our community, lakes that are in that area. Those are all things that have long-lasting effect; that has been a real exciting thing.

The second thing is that we’ve started a community foundation. Paperwork has gone through, and the committee is organizing it. We’ve started a foundation here with $50,000 which we have put in from the district of Vanderhoof, the regional district has put in $25,000, and all that is matched by the Northern Development Initiative Trust. We will start our foundation with $150,000. It’s something that is going to be there for generations to come.

Those are the really neat values that I see have come to the community, have really matured us as a community.

Q: Where are we for our big projects, such as the Integris Recreation Centre and the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre?

A: We’re going to see significant things happening this year on those two projects. There’s been too much done on both of those, in my mind, to a standstill. As we’ve seen now, the pool fundraising group has raised over $400,000 in just over a year. That’s been noticed by industry and government.

Certainly the people of Vanderhoof have said that’s a priority, and so we want to work very diligently to see the aquatic centre come to being. I would think that 2016 would certainly be a pivotal year, and that’s because of all the work that’s been done by Zoe Dhillon and the group in fundraising. Certainly the council and staff have worked on a different level, at a much deeper level, everything from developing plans and also advocating for it on a larger scale. I think the next few months will be pivotal as far as the aquatic centre is concerned.

As for the recreation centre, we’ll see it come to being in the next few months. We’ve got a good plan, we’ve had a few hiccups, some costs that we haven’t expected. That’s what builds maturity; it’s that when you get into problems, you address them. You build a stronger relationship with both the propo-

Mayor Gerry Thiessen nents of the recreation centre, but also the people around council working together.

Q: So the recreation centre will start construction this year?

We’re working hard with manufacturing to diversify, and we’re also working in agriculture to diversify. You saw a small piece of that in the [Nechako Valley Secondary greenhouse project]; those are not going to be small projects. I’ve dealt with some people with international connections in both those areas; these are export markets that we’re trying to develop. I think it’s important that as we go through this year, we look at those larger versions and focusing on that. If we’re going to survive, that’s our only option.

A: Yes, I can’t see any reason why it wouldn’t.

Q: What are your thoughts on concerns expressed through social media by some community members about the fate of their donations to the aquatic centre, if the pool does not happen?

A: It’s a long-time coming project. When you see some communities — they work on a project like this for 10 years — this isn’t a simple project. When we as a council decided to go down this track, there wasn’t a fear that this was going to take more than just an election cycle. And to me, this project is much bigger than any one person or councillor. It’s a community project, and it needs to be seen as that. We’re making the best decisions with what we have. We made it clear that people who donated to the pool, if the pool didn’t go ahead and they wanted their funding back, they get a receipt for it. That’s the way how we know who donated.

We continue to spend money on the plans; we want to make sure that it’s a shovel-ready project, ready to build, so we’re working very diligently in that area.

Q: What are some other upcoming highlights for 2016?

A: The neat thing about Vanderhoof is certainly the council, for me, is a huge strength here in Vanderhoof. To me, we’re a council and you’ve sat in council chambers and see a lot of votes that are not unanimous, that are split votes.

There’s a real understanding and desire of council members to work together. To me, that’s a real strength for our community. When I talk to other mayors and other councillors in other communities…we’re just so fortunate. I’m just so thankful everyday, for a council that is progressive. The community has voted in progressive people, people who see the opportunity, the challenge that we have.

You have two things that each community has to face.

One, to try to be just in a self-preservation mode, and just take care of yourself; or to be thoughtfully progressive, and look for opportunities. We have tried to do that. We have a number of opportunities, whether it is the construction of the New Gold mine. We’ve had a number of natural gas, LNG lines, that have come to town and expressed an interest in working with our community, and be closely involved in the community. Certainly the housing study is going to be a huge part that we’re going to be working on this year. We realize that senior housing is going to be a real need in the community over the next five to 10 years, and it is right now.

Other areas, we did a hotel evaluation study a couple of years ago, and we have a number of hotels that are working with us, looking to moving into the Vanderhoof area —

Q: And for our education — the College of New Caledonia’s current community consultation on their restructuring process?

A: I met with CNC for a good hour this past week and talked about that. A number of years ago, we did a very indepth plan for CNC and it was done over a period of three plans. They need to come and give an answer to us. Over the next month, they have agreed to come back to Vanderhoof, meet with people who were the real champions of that plan, and to tell us why we’re on the wrong track.

I’ve spoken with the Minister of Advanced Education, Andrew Wilkinson. He understands where we are and he understands the need that we have. We will continue to work with that.

Another thing I would like to add is the flood and the fire this spring.

They were really tough on our community, for two different reasons. The fire is hard because it burns up so much of that fibre and timber. There were lots of logs that were already cut, ready to go to the sawmill, and we’ve lost all that. The problem that’s going to come is, not this year, or maybe next year, but in the future, if we continue to have those big fires, we’re going to lose some of our sawmills. I have worked very hard with my fellow mayors and worked on trying to understand wildfires, why forest fires are happening so early in the year. Those are difficult, difficult situations.

The last one is on the flood. The flood was the hardest thing that we went through this past year. It just wears on the committee when you see water just there in your basement, and your crawl space; it just becomes overwhelming to our community. I’ve really noticed that the attitude of the people really struggled, and that’s why it was so important for me to see the park emptied of water as quickly as possible, and pumped out and cleaned up as quick as we could.

We’re working with Rio Tinto and the government to address those concerns; we’ll work in every way we can to find a solution on it.

Certainly I’ve spent a lot of time talking to our MLA (John Rustad), to anyone that we can to find a solution, but it cannot be a solution today that’s going to be an expense for our children tomorrow. Council is making long-term decisions, decisions that will benefit our community for generations to come. You can’t have solutions today end up being the problems tomorrow.

A8 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

NEWS

In 2013, W. L. McLeod Elementary school students performed a flash mob in downtown Vanderhoof, recorded in video, for anti-bullying on Pink Shirt Day. VIVIAN CHUI screenshot

Town-wide dance, message sharing for anti-bullying ography of the street-wide dance in preparation, and the community is invited to dress in pink and line Burrard Ave in support during the event at 12:30 p.m.

Over 800 Vanderhoof kids, decked in The day is important not just for students, pink, will rock the streets of downtown Vanbut also for all as a community to band toderhoof on Feb. 24 to dance against bullying. gether.

It’s Pink Shirt Day, when Canadians “It would be so supportive for all these across the country are urged to wear pink kids…a real positive message for our in support of the annual anti-bullying community,” Worthington said. “There campaign. will be lots more info to follow, but I While past Pink Shirt Day events wanted to put a bug in everyone’s ear. in the district included a town march “So you can start to collect as much down Burrard Avenue, as well as a pink as you can.” flash mob from W. L. McLeod ElemenPink Shirt Day originated in 2007 tary students in 2013, this year’s plans when a Grade 9 student in Nova Scotia promised to be bigger by involving not was bullied for wearing a pink polo shirt only all elementary schools of Vanderon the first day of school. hoof — including W. L. McLeod, EveWhen two Grade 12 students heard lyn Dickson, Sinkut View, Mapes, and about the incident, they bought 50 disNorthside Christian School — but also count pink shirts for distribution to all businesses and community groups, boys to wear on the next day. said teacher Kim Worthington from Though only their classmates were W. L. McLeod Elementary. emailed that night, hundreds of other stu“We’ve got big plans for the day,” dents wore their pink clothes in support, Worthington explained. “We’ve been sparking a movement across the country . using the Shawn Mendes song ‘BeIn 2008, former premier Gordon lieve’ as our focus this year.”

Campbell declared Feb. 27 as the provinIn the 17-year-old Canadian singVIVIAN CHUI screenshot er’s music video, crowds danced and Crowds in Canadian artist Shawn Mendes’ music video “Believe” write on giant black- cial anti-bullying day. boards their thoughts and beliefs. Vanderhoof’s version will involve pink posters.

Vivian Chui Omineca Express

completed the sentence “I believe” with different ideas in various languages on giant outdoor blackboards, while Mendes sang, “Don’t be afraid to be who you are, just scream out and shout and follow the stars.”

It’s an inspiring song, Worthington said.

“We chose it because we believe in the message of believing in all the positive pos-

sibilities there are in this world,” she said.

Neon pink posters for Vanderhoof’s citizens to contribute their beliefs will be distributed to businesses, community groups, as well as care homes, in the week of Feb. 15.

On Feb. 24, the posters will be displayed on store windows for community support Students are currently learning the chore-

Catch the excitement as 60 Athletes and 23 Coaches from the North West (Zone 7) compete against the best in the province.

Omineca Express Wednesday, February 10, 2016

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Express

COMMUNITY

New videos on eating disorders by B.C. experts

February 1, 2016 – Two groups representing atheists and Humanists are asking for God to be taken out of O Canada in a letter to Liberal MP Mauril Belangér.

Last week Belangér tabled Bill C-210, which would make the national anthem gender neutral.

The BC Humanist Association and Centre for Inquiry Canada praised this symbolic move toward gender equality and asked the MP to amend the bill to also replace the line “God keep our land” with a secular alternative.

The organizations argue that the number of nonreligious Canadians is rising and they should see their views reflected in our national symbols. The 2011 National Household Survey found that 24% of Canadians are not religious and a 2013 Justason Market Intelligence poll found that 64% of British Columbians do not practice a religion or faith.

Ian Bushfield, Executive Director of the BC Humanists said, “Progress comes in small and large steps. Symbols like the national anthem may not have a great effect on the day to day lives of most atheists but they matter nonetheless. This bill is an opportunity for MPs to recognize and celebrate the growing diversity of worldviews in the country.”

Eric Adriaans, National Executive Director of CFI Canada said, “Too often Canada has delayed important symbolic change with the result that we’ve repeated and entrenched divisive errors of the past. It’s time for our national anthem to embrace Canada’s culturally diverse future rather than the narrow perspectives of the past.”

be able to make these videos available. It is important to us to share the knowledge and expertise of our specialized staff with families and health care providers across all of BC, particularly in communities that may not have easy access to this information,” said Sarah Bell, Provincial Executive Director, Mental Health and Concurrent

Disorders Services at BC Children’s Hospital.

The videos are a project of the East Kootenay Local Action Team, which is part of the province-wide Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Use Collaborative.

The Collaborative is a province-wide initiative that aims to improve the awareness, coordination, and timely access

of child and youth mental health services. The Collaborative brings together a wide array of people into Local Actions Teams designed to find collective community solutions to specific mental health issues.

There are now 65 local action teams all across BC. The funding for the Collaborative comes primarily from the Shared Care Com-

mittee, a joint committee of the Doctors of BC and the BC Government. Funding for the whole initiative has also come from two other joint Doctors of BC/BC government committees.

The videos can be found at the Shared Care website: http:// sharedcarebc.ca/initiatives/CYMHSU-Resources

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Secular groups to MP: take God out of national anthem

cial program travelled to the region to present a day long-workshop.

Now the edited videos are being released province-wide to help spread the knowledge more widely to other regions that may struggle with how to provide up-to-date and effective treatment in BC’s more rural and remote locations.

“We are thrilled to

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McKinlay, 20, and her mother Terri McKinlay.

When Rylee was 16 she was hospitalized for 9 weeks at BC Children’s for her anorexia. At her sickest, her heart rate was so low she was at risk of dying of heart failure.

Eating disorders (ED) affect 1.5% of young women age 15 to 24 in BC. In recent years, rates of EDs have been increasing in men, too. EDs are the deadliest of all mental health concerns, with up to 15% of those with the diagnosis eventually dying directly from the disorder.

The videos were filmed last year in Kimberley BC, when six experts from the provin-

ON

It’s National Eating Disorders Week and as part of a provincial plan to better inform British Columbian families and health care providers about this deadly disorder, a series of informational videos are being released across the province.

The seven videos feature experts from the Provincial Specialized Eating Disorders Program, located BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, giving presentations about the medical assessment and management, various therapies, meal support and more.

Included in the seven videos is one about the family experience, which features Rylee

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A10 www.ominecaexpress.com

Sudoku

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Omineca Express

The Fun Page Horoscopes ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, if you assumed you were right on track, you soon will see why it isn’t safe to assume. Do not take anything for granted and consider all potential outcomes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Don’t try to erect barriers, Sagittarius. This week you have to let someone in and unburden some of the problems or thoughts that have been weighing you down.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Interpersonal dynamics are constantly changing, and you may have a challenging time wrangling in your relationship to where it feels comfortable, Taurus.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Accomplish something important based on what you learn this week, Capricorn. Keep your eyes and ears open to all of the possibilities around you.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, even if you are uncertain about someone’s intentions, it is best to give that person the beneÀt of the doubt.

However, an ounce of skepticism never hurt anyone.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Try not to take the easy way out, Aquarius. When faced with some tough questions, stay strong and true to yourself. You will be happier in the long run if you do so.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, it is better to make your choices sooner rather than later this week. Putting decisions off only complicates matters. It may be an anxious time, but you will pull through.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, take some time off if your job seems like a headache this week. If you have the time, enjoy a long weekend or a short jaunt during the week.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Stop worrying about how others see you, Leo. This week own up to your beliefs, even if they seem to go against the norm. You may be surprised at the support you receive.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, a hectic week leads to lots of demands on your time. Take things one task at a time and do not be afraid to say “no” if you feel you are overwhelmed.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, frustration at work may not be directed at any one person, and you can’t let it consume your life. Make the frustration work to your advantage instead.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Romantic thoughts this week will have you on a mission to spend quality time with a loved one, Scorpio. You may do everything in your power to be near your signiÀcant other.

Crosswords

Word Scramble

CLUES ACROSS 1. Women (French) 5. Hyrax 8. Distress signal 11. Trade 13. Large northern deer 14. The 3 Wise Men 15. Marten of N Asian forests 16. Hoover’s agency 17. Received an A 18. 2nd Islamic month 20. Light brown 21. ClariÀed butter used in Indian cookery 22. Frankness 25. Argentina’s capital 30. Citizen of Kenya or Zimbabwe 31. Noah’s boat 32. Family of languages in So. Africa 33. Inappropriate 38. ScientiÀc workplace 41. Hungriness 43. Say to talk about an annoying topic 45. Sing and play for somebody 47. Strike buster 49. A citizen of Thailand 50. Civil Rights group 55. Honest Company’s Jessica 56. ‘__ death do us part 57. Malarias 59. Claim against another’s prop-

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 7 Ashton Kutcher, Actor (38) FEBRUARY 8 Seth Green, Actor (42) FEBRUARY 9 Judith Light, Actress (67) FEBRUARY 10 Emma Roberts, Actress (25) FEBRUARY 11 Jennifer Aniston, Actress (47) FEBRUARY 12 Judy Blume, Author (78) FEBRUARY 13 Robbie Williams, Singer (42)

erty 60. Mined metal-bearing mineral 61. Dashery 62. Capacity unit 63. Primary color 64. Indian dress CLUES DOWN 1. Manuscripts (abbr.)

2. Netherlands river 3. Italian island 4. One’s own being 5. More adroit 6. Balkan country 7. Psychologist B.F. 8. Investment group Goldman ___ 9. Double curve 10. The plane of a Àgure 12. Ocean 14. Public presses 19. Civil Rights activist Parks 23. Cooking container 24. Arctic native 25. Founder of Babism 26. Bashkortostan capital 27. Bulky grayish-brown eagle 28. Louse egg 29. About sight 34. ___/Tuck: TV drama 35. Black tropical American

Guess Who?

cuckoo 36. Chest muscle (slang) 37. Expression of disappointment 39. One who assists 40. Antilles island 41. Served food 42. Egyptian Sun god 44. Performed successfully 45. Cavalry-sword 46. Abba __, Israeli politician 47. Jonas __, cured polio 48. The Muse of history 51. Express pleasure 52. Turkish leader titles 53. Castro country 54. Nobleman 58. ___ Lanka

Omineca Express Wednesday, February 10, 2016

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Vanderhoof celebrating 90 years Fort St. James celebrating 210 years

Fort St. James has unlimited potential Taken from Nechako Chronicle August 4, 1956 Due to its geographic location Fort St. James can expand as an industrial community or as a major resort.

Situated at the lower end of a chain of lakes and rivers which extends 170 miles northwards into rich mining country it would be difficult to predict whether the unspoiled beauty will develop Fort St. James as a resort ahead of inevitable mining developments.

The picturesque waterways along with the superb fishing and hunting which is characteristic of the area has a tremendous appeal to

vacationists and business men seeking seclusion. Each year sees a larger number making return visits, along with newcomers who have heard of its virtues as an ideal place to relax, hunt, fish or to cruise over its many miles of scenic waterways. Few areas in all of Canada offers greater diversity or scenic beauty.

On the other hand many rich mineral deposits have been located in the highly mineralized area to the north of Fort St. James.

Remoteness has to a large extent discouraged development. It is inevitable, however, that in the near or distant future active interest will be taken and producing mines

will be located over a widely scattered area. Although many potential mining properties have been located, the dull thud of a prospectors hammer has never echoed in many of the valleys of the vast, mineral rich country. Mercury, antimony, gold, silver, copper, lead and zinc are but a few of the base and precious metals which have been located. Mining operations could conceivably transform Fort St. James into a mining business centre.

Meanwhile the lumbering industry has pushed fur trading into the background and established an all-time high in business activities.

Pinchi Lake Mercury Mine Taken from the Omineca Express 1986 Pinchi Lake Mercury Mine was first staked in 1938 by Andres Ostrem. It was later sold to Consolidated Mining and Smelting. It is believed to be the largest mercury deposit in the western hemisphere.

Operated during the Second World War, Pinchi Mine supplied most of the mercury demanded by the western world.

During these years, men were employed at the mine, and many more were employed in freighting etc.

Pinchi Mine closed its doors later, leaving homes,

stores and all the buildings intact. In time, a great number of these buildings were sold and moved.

Many of the buildings are still in use today in Vanderhoof and Fort St. James.

Pinchi Mine bustled once more when it re-opened in 1968, when the world demand for mercury jumped sharply. Men were again employed at the mine, until one again it closed when the price of mercury dropped too low to make the operation feasible.

Most of the men who had been employed there moved on to other mining endeavors with the company, but a good many stayed to make their homes in Fort St. James.

Anglican parson Basil Proctor stands proudly with his car.

Photo courtesy of B.C. Archives

Four white men and one roast beaver This account was taken from the Nechako Chronicle of August 4, 1956

George Ogston, prominent Vanderhoof realtor is occupying a seat of honour at the 150th anniversary regatta and carnival at Fort St. James. He will no doubt let his thoughts drift back over the years to the day in 1906 when he and three other men celebrated the centennial of the historic event. He alone will be able to reminisce as the other three are now deceased.

In his mind’s eye he will see the simple preparations being made for the dinner after someone, possibly himself, had accidently stumbled across the founding date while pouring through ‘company’ records. His mental picture will take in the old buildings within the stockade, the crude cabins which house the 600-700 natives living beyond the stockade walls, and the small room with sturdy furnishings in which the dinner was held.

Seated at the table besides himself were the Chief Factor A.C. Murray, Harold Merchant who was employed by the Hudson’s Bay Company to teach the native children and another young clerk, Donald Todd.

After their simple fare of roast whole beaver, prepared especially for the occasion by their Chinese cook C. Donghoy, the small gathering disbanded and each went their respective ways. No speech making or fanfare accompanied, preceded or followed the dinner.

In being questioned about the anniversary dinner Mr. Ogston stated that the historic date would have passed without recognition but for the simple ‘remembrance’ planned by the staff. Although operating the only trading post at Fort St. James the officials of Hudson’s Bay Company were apparently not interested in the historic event.

working at Babine Post until he was transferred to the post at Fort St. James in 1905 he became aware of the mere pittance he was receiving for the amount and nature of work entailed in handling company records.

The matter also concerned Mr. Murray the Chief Factor when he learned that his efficient young clerk was receiving only 30 pounds in salary and he wrote to headquarters asking for an increase in salary.

Six months later, during the 1906 period, a reply was received authorizing a pay increase to 75 pounds, the equivalent of $375 for the year in 1906, an increase which was retroactive to the first of the year.

Unlike the earlier days when natives and traders lived principally on fish and food which was scarce in the off years of the salmon run, the larders at the Hudson’s Bay post were well filled with game. All other foodstuffs and ‘trading goods’ were brought in from Winnipeg by way of Victoria, thence via steamer, row boats and pack trains to the Fort.

“It was more complicated than it sounds,” Mr. Ogston stated. By way of explanation Mr. Ogston said that from Victoria all supplies were transported by coastal vessels for Photo courtesy of B.C. Archives a distance of 450 miles to Fort Easington, thence via the river steamer Mount Royal 200 miles up the Skeena River to Hazleton where the freight was unloaded and with the aid of The Chinese cook C. Donghoy left the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1908 and went to Quesnel where he established and oper- pack horses taken 110 miles overland to the head of Babine Lake.

Again the freight was loaded into boats, this time row boats ated a prosperous and prominent merchandising business.

Another incident which occurred in 1906 stands out in Mr and taken to the lower end of Babine Lake, a distance of another Ogston’s mind as it had to do with money, and this time his own. 100 miles, where it was warehoused.

On the next leg of the journey teams and wagons were used to When he signed a five year employment contract with Hudson’s Bay Company in Aberdeen in 1903 it was on a sliding scale start- haul the freight over the nine mile portage between Babine Lake ing with 20 pounds for the first year and pyramkling to 50 pounds and Stuart Lake. Here again the freight was reloaded into row in the fifth year. From a starting salary of $100 for the first year boats and laboriously rowed another 40-45 miles down Stuart to $250 in the fifth year seemed like a good deal at the time. After Lake to the ‘Fort’ to complete the journey.

A12 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

NEWS

Grief is natural, recover by facing it: local expert Vivian Chui Omineca Express For those who have lost a loved one, not being understood by family and friends is no reason to hide grief, says Vanderhoof’s grief recovery specialist.

Fay Wuthrich, director and founder of counselling service Annie’s Door: A Healing Place for the Soul, discussed grief and emotional healing with Vanderhoof residents at the public library on Jan. 28.

“Grief is a normal and natural reaction to significant emotional loss of any kind that affects you,” Wuthrich explained. “No one feels the way you do… our relationships with people are unique as fingerprints.”

Though most people meant no harm with comments to offer comfort, only about 10 per cent of the responses were helpful, she said.

Unhelpful comments may include, “I know how you feel,” or “I can imagine that,” while helpful questions can be, “What happened, “How did you find out,” or even simply “I am sorry.”

“Grievers just want their grief to be heard;

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they want heart, ears, and no mouth — which judges what they’re feeling,” Wuthrich said.

“Most people listen not with the intent to understand, but to respond.”

Learning how to recover from grief is especially important for those who are overcome by a series of unfortunate events, she explained.

“For example, someone who just had three or four tragedies in the life seemingly

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and how bad of a daughter I was,” she said.

“When you realize how people are grieving out there, then you see them everywhere you look…you just want to help people.”

Though three people attended the evening information session, audience members expressed that it may be due to availability, rather than lack of interest, from the community, as well as the nature of grief.

“It’s scary to admit this is what I’m feeling, then I need to deal with it,” said an attendee who underwent trauma and requested to be unnamed. Halfway through the discussion, she left the room for several minutes as she struggled to breathe.

“It’s scary to be with a group,” she said. “I had a panic attack and I felt very vulnerable.”

Having consulted a counsellor, who has over 25 years of experience, for four years, she agreed with the discussed methods.

“It’s good to continue learning…different counsellors have different viewpoints, and everybody will give you different tools and ideas and perspectives to work on,” she said.

Learning about grief may be difficult for those who are struggling to recover, but facing it is the first step, she explained.

“I wish people will come,” she said.

“When you feel trauma and if you push them away, you think they aren’t real.

“But they are real, and they need to deal with them.” She added, “People think they are stuck, but they are not, if they can cross the ocean of grief.”

More information on Annie’s Door can be found on www.anniesdoor.ca.

THE STUART NECHAKO ADVERTISER CAN BE PICKED UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS...

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really close together,” she said.

Wuthrich’s service is named after her mother Annie, who passed away three years ago.

“I had experienced a tumultuous relationship with my mom most of her life, and when she passed away, it’s like I was hit on the head by a two-by-four, and my feet were swept out from under me,” she explained.

“I was so taken up by the grief that I experienced at her death.”

At the same time, other life-threatening events occurred in her family, Wuthrich said.

“My grandson needed surgery at the children’s hospital, and my husband was told he had a tumour on his vocal cord,” she said. “It was just a lot of grief things happened all at once, and I didn’t know how to cope.

“I didn’t have the tools, in my life skills coping tool belt kind of thing, to function.”

The memory of her mother no longer brings the pain of her death — recovery from grief doesn’t mean forgetting, Wuthrich said. “I can talk about my mom without the pain of her death, or about the pain of regret

VANDERHOOF Omineca Express office Vanderhoof Co-op - Grocery Co-op Mall - Lobby Vanderhoof Co-op - C-Store Extra Foods Vanderhoof Post Office Riverside Place Nechako View Senior’s Home Speedway Road Mapes CJ’s Trailer Court Loop Road Prairiedale Braeside Road Jones Road Sob Lake Road Redfern Drive Sinkut Frontage Road Kenny Dam & Lakes Road J&S Restaurant

CLUCULZ LAKE BROOKSIDE RESORT FRASER LAKE Par 3 Sports Fraser Lake Building Supplies ENGEN Engen Road Giesbrecht Frontage Road FORT FRASER Fort Fraser Petro Can FORT ST JAMES Lakeshore Realty Sana’aih Market Overwaitea Foods Fort Loonie Bin Lakeside Pharmacy

Omineca Express Wednesday, February 10, 2016

New program for heavy equipment operators in Vanderhoof finishes

VIVIAN CHUI

Reg Mueller, Aboriginal Support Worker at the College of New Caledonia, presents a certificate of completion to a program participant in Vanderhoof on Jan. 26. More to follow next week.

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. *** We are looking forward to the 38TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE PERFORMING ARTS!...Dates are March 7- 20, 2016 and will be held at Nechako Valley Secondary School. Monday March 7, Speech Arts. Friday March 11, Strings.

Monday March 14- Thursday March 17, Piano. Please check the website at www.musicfestivalweb.com/nechako for program details *** 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 *** 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...Do you struggle with persistent pain? Do you feel like your pain is holding your life hostage? Find it difficult to talk about your pain? Join us for an evening of education and understanding at the Vanderhoof Peer-Led Pain SelfManagement Group can help you find answers to your questions. Meetings are held the last Tuesday of the month from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. at the Vanderhoof Public Library - Multipurpose Room, 230 Stewart St E, Vanderhoof. Sharing the struggles and the solutions with other people who truly understand, in a safe environment, will help you reduce isolation, grieve the losses and gain an understanding of persistent pain and how you can take back control of your life. For more information please check out our website: www.pipain.com *** 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

www.ominecaexpress.com A13

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....

Nechako Figure Skating Club’s Ayva Lewis, 9, placed second in the Star 3 Field Moves category at the Cariboo North Central Regional Figure Skating Championships and Jamboree in Prince George from Jan. 22 to 24.

Photo submitted

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 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, 250 567-9705. *** 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.

A14 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Omineca Express

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INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS TRAVEL EMPLOYMENT 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.

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Information

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Trades, Technical

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 HAVE YOU been denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefits?

The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal.

Call 1-877-793-3222; www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca 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.

NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE 3 February 2016 Reservoir Elevation: 851.87 m (2794.84 ft.)

SLS Discharge: 29.7 m3/s Note: This update will no longer appear in newspapers starting March 2016. If you rely on the newspaper notice and would like to continue to receive this update it will be available by email or on our webpage. Please contact me for details.

RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT WORKERS Inclusions Powell River is hiring Residential Support Workers f/t, p/t and casual positions - Adult & Children’s residences.

For more information visit: www.inclusionpr.ca e-mail: apply@pracl.ca

Education/Trade Schools HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists are in huge demand.

Employers want CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career!

Train with Canada’s best-rated program.

Enroll today. 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 today: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career!

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 snowpack 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

Timeshare CANCEL YOUR Timeshare.

No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248

SEE POLAR Bears, Walrus and Whales on our Arctic Explorer Voyage next summer.

Save 15% with our winter sale for a limited time. Call toll-free: 1-800-363-7566 or visit: www.adventurecanada.com (TICO#04001400)

Employment Business Opportunities GET FREE Vending machines. Can earn $100,000+ per year, all cash. protected territories - locations provided.

Full details call now! 1-866668-6629 or visit our website www.tcvend.com

FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Career Opportunities

Services

Financial Services

Financial Services

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed?

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

If you see a wildfire, report it to

1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on most cellular networks.

START A New career in graphic arts, healthcare, business, education or information tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT Help Wanted

• Teachers • Special Ed Teachers • Education Assistants Part-time opportunity to start supporting our Northern BC home educated students.

Caseload to increase in the fall once training & proficiency is established.

Detailed job description & online application can be found at: www.onlineschool.ca Click About Us, then scroll to Careers at HCOS

Hotel, Restaurant, Food Services DO YOU or anyone you know specialize in East Indian Cuisine? Popular restaurant in Kamloops needs you immediately. Full Time, starting $20. per hr. 250-374-0340.

Services

TAX FREE MONEY is available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

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.

Career Opportunities

Millwright Smithers BC

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF Job Posting

Public Works Foreman The District of Vanderhoof is recruiting a Public Works Foremen to join our team of professionals in the Public Works Department. In this leadership role, you will report to the Director of Operations and be responsible for skilled supervisory work coordinating, directing, and participating in the work of crews engaged in a variety of operations, maintenance and construction tasks in the Public Works division. This includes roads, storm and sanitary sewers, water, cemetery, solid waste collection and fleet management. A broad and challenging range of duties will add variety to the job and allow the incumbent to be creative and innovative. You will schedule, organize and supervise the work of the Public Works Crews ensuring performance standards, specifications and safety procedures are met. In addition you will coordinate with external contractors to deliver the District’s annual paving; chip seal; and line painting programs.

You will prepare cost and time estimates, monitor budget expenditures and take part in the development of annual work schedules, operating and capital budgets, and short and long range planning. As well, you will establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts, receive and resolve service requests and complaints from the public, prepare and maintain records, and order materials and equipment.

Travel

Travel

Automotive Technician Charlotte Tire has an immediate opening for an experienced auto technician.

We are a very busy shop providing quality repairs on the Queen Charlotte Island.

We offer a very competitive compensation package!

Please e-mail resume: bill@citires.ca

Services

You will have completed Grade 12, supplemented by technical courses related to the work and possess considerable related knowledge and experience, preferably in a supervisory capacity. A thorough knowledge of the methods, practices, procedures and materials, tools and equipment used in roads, maintenance and operations is required. A Civil Engineering Technology graduate is preferred. The position requires strong leadership with a demonstrated ability to work in a team setting along with excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. You will need to be proficient with Microsoft Office products and possess a valid Class 5 BC driver’s license. A Class 3 BC driver’s license with air brake endorsement is preferred. E.O.C.P. Certification in Wastewater Treatment and Water Distribution would be an asset. This is a permanent full-time exempt position. A competitive salary is offered. More information on this opportunity, including a complete job description, is available for review in the Employment section of the District of Vanderhoof website (www.vanderhoof.ca).

The District of Vanderhoof offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. This is a non-union exempt position. A detailed job description is available upon request.

Kyahwood Forest Products is a Finger Joint mill located in Moricetown, 30 km West of Smithers BC. This entity is wholly owned by the Moricetown Band.

We currently have an opening for Millwright at our facility.

The ideal candidate will hold an Interprovincial Red Seal ticket and have two years of experience. Knowledge in the operation of an optimizer and finger jointing machine is an asset. Apprentices in the latter stages of their apprenticeship are also encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will bring good troubleshooting and problem solving skills to ensure the continuous operation and efficiency of the machinery, good communication and interpersonal skills as well as a working knowledge of digital and computer systems.

Welding, machining and electrical experience would also be an asset.

This position will be compensated with a competitive wage and benefit package that includes medical, dental and pension plan.

Apply in confidence: Fax – 250-847-2763 Email: mbdc@bulkley.net Deadline for applications: February 15, 2016 No phone calls please!

Misc Services

MAKE YOUR POINTOF-SALE

Misc Services 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.

250-567-9258

Please forward a detailed resume along with covering letter to the undersigned no later than 4:30 pm, February 26th, 2016.

We thank all who apply however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Lori Egli Human Resources, District of Vanderhoof Box 900 Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Phone: (250)-567-4711 E-mail: loriegli@district.vanderhoof.ca Closing date: Friday February 26th, 2016.

The eyes have it Fetch a Friend from the SPCA today! spca.bc.ca

Omineca Express Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Merchandise for Sale

www.ominecaexpress.com A15

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Auctions

Misc. for Sale

2 DAY ONLINE AUCTION FEB. 16 & 17 - 1000 PLUS LOTS INCL $350K INS. CLAIM OF FOOD EQUIP (some in orig. pkg) / 7 BAILIFF SEIZURES OF RESTAURANTS & GROCERY STORES / HIGH END SAUSAGE MAKING EQUIP / 3 X 350 GALLON STEAM KETTLES W-AGITATORS / ICE CREAM EQUIP & COMPLETE CAPPUCCINO BAR EQUIP. VISIT W W W. AC T I V E AU C T I O N MART.COM TO VIEW, REGISTER & BID. ONSITE VIEWING OPENS FEB 9. CALL 604-371-1190 OR EMAIL BUYIT@ACTIVEAUCTIONMART.COM FOR MORE INFO

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397. Make money & save money with your own bandmill.

Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free Info & DVD:

Misc. for Sale For Sale! Wrapped Oat/Barley haylage & 2nd cut Alfalfa haylage. Call 1 (250)249-5466 POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and installation. Call John at 403998-7907;

Rentals

Legal

Legal

Legal

Apt/Condo for Rent

Apt/Condo for Rent

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

ABOVE THE REST!

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

1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT

Townhouses

STEEL BUILDING Sale. Really big sale: extra winter discount on now!! 21x22 $5,190 25x24 $5,988 27x28 $7,498 30x32 $8,646 35x34 $11,844 42x54 $16,386. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca

Silvermill Apartments

Real Estate

250-567-4208

Duplex/4 Plex

Legal Notices

Secure quiet apartments VACANCY

Become a GREEN SHOPPER!

Rentals

Victoria Manor

Large 2 Bdrm from

$742 - $772

$712 - $742

NO SMOKING - NO PETS

* Balconies * Landscaped View * Cablevision Available

250-567-4048 or 250-567-9080

4.1 Except where otherwise directed by the Authorized Person, a Peace Officer, or a person authorized by a Peace Officer to direct traffic, no person shall:

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SITTING FRONTAGE COURT OF REVISION

Apt/Condo for Rent

Municipal Council has given first and second reading to District of Vanderhoof Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw No. 1156, 2016, which seeks to restrict the speed of vehicles in excess of 13,700 kg (GVW) to a maximum speed of 30 km/hr on Burrard Avenue.

To accommodate this change, Section 4.1 of the District of Vanderhoof “Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw No. 1156, 2016” will read:

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF

Large 1 Bdrm from

www.pitch-in.ca

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

420 west 3rd st. Bsmt suit.

Avail Feb. 1st. $475./mth includes utilities. F/S, Call Jay 250-563-6158 or 563-2202.

jcameron@advancebuildings.com

REFORESTATION NURSERY seedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, and berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce and Pine from $.99/tree. Free shipping. Replacement guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF Notification Burrard Avenue Speed Reduction

www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT

SPEED LIMITS (10)

Licensed vehicles in excess of 13,700 kg (GVW) on Burrard Avenue will be restricted to a maximum speed of 30 km/hr.

The “District of Vanderhoof Traffic and Highways Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 1156, 2016” is scheduled for third and final reading at the Regular Meeting of Council on February 22, 2016.

The Court of Revision shall sit at the time and place shown below for the purpose of reviewing the water frontage tax and the sewer frontage tax rolls and any appeals received against the levy so charged.

THE FRONTAGE COURT OF REVISION SHALL BE HELD AT 5:00 PM FEBRUARY 22, 2016 IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS – 160 CONNAUGHT STREET, VANDERHOOF, BC A complaint will not be heard unless written notice pursuant to Section 205 of the Community Charter is received by the Collector at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the time of the first sitting of the court. The Frontage Tax Assessment Rolls will be available for viewing for fourteen (14) days prior to the sitting of the Court. The District of Vanderhoof office hours are 8:30 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Should anyone have comments, questions or concerns, please contact Paul Carver, Director of Operations at 250 567 0669 or email operations@district.vanderhoof.ca by 4:30 pm, February 12, 2016.

Paul R. Carver Civil Engineering Technologist Director of Operations

Adopt a Shelter Cat! The BC SPCA cares for thousands of orphaned and abandoned cats each year.

If you can give a homeless cat a second chance at happiness, please visit your local shelter today.

J.D. Ukryn, CGA Collector

www.spca.bc.ca

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

FRANK TEICHROEB 3393 Sinkutview Rd, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A2 567-2029

ADVERTISING

CIE 0697864 BC Ltd.

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

All jobs BIG or small, give us a call!

EXCAVATING

Central Interior Excavating

For All of Your Excavating Needs Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Lot clearing, waterlines, foundations, driveway construction, planning and installation of Septic Systems

INSTALLATION & REPAIRS

250-567-5888

Telephone: 250-567-3855 Fax: 250-567-9695 Email: info@centralinteriorex.com Excavators, Backhoes, Crawler Tractors, End Dump

ADVERTISING

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

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

Pam Berger Publisher

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

Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070

ADVERTISING

Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

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

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE HERE GIVE US A CALL: 250-567-9258

Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070 Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

A16 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

NEWS

Mountain biking: tourism potential on the ‘hoof Vivian Chui Omineca Express It’s time to draw mountain bikers to the tree-lined slopes and rolling hills of Vanderhoof, the heart of it of all, says Vanderhoof’s bike club president.

In addition to its 2016 plan, Vanderhoof’s Rip’n the North Bike Club presented to the district council on Jan. 25 its long-term vision to promote mountain biking tourism in Vanderhoof.

With upgrades to five kilometres of the area’s mountain biking trails to be completed by late June, the club is looking to add advanced jumps to its bike park and signage to its trail system this year, said Jason Barr, the club’s president.

“Before was ‘rake and ride’ deer trails, not fun for young riders,” Barr explained. “Now it’s smooth and flowy.”

Vanderhoof’s current mountain biking offerings include seven kilometres of trails and 11 jumps for beginner to advanced bikers.

Adding “double black diamond” jumps will be part of the club’s next step to provide an expert-level pro-line jump park, allowing Vanderhoof to offer what other biking communities in the north currently do not, he said.

Tourism B.C.’s official website for mountain biking in northern B.C. currently features Prince George, Smithers, and Burns Lake — who boasts 65 kilometres of bike trails in its region, as well as skills and jump parks.

Another opportunity to develop the district as a mountain biking destination is to build a two-kilometre race trail, allowing Vanderhoof to host events to draw bikers from surrounding communities, Barr said.

Along with Fort St. James’ 20-kilometre trail network and potential opportunities in Fraser Lake, Vanderhoof as a region can be a convenient addition to bikers touring northern B.C., he added.

“An hour drive from Prince George and another hour to Burns Lake,” Barr said. “It’s not too far for riders to travel [between Fraser Lake and Fort St. James] to ride those trails.

None of the towns here have the capacity to do it on their own, but if we do it together, we can work from our strengths.”

Along with trail and jump park expansion, setting up adequate signage and map

kiosks to indicate trails (they don’t have names yet) and difficulty levels of jumps will help to draw bikers as well, he explained.

“So we can advertise it not as a crazy, unestablished network,” Barr said. “It’s a funded, professional trail network.”

This year’s funding from the district of Vanderhoof will cover maintenance costs and liability insurance for jumps. To work on additional projects with volunteer support, the club is currently applying for grants and will continue to fundraise during the summer, he said.

Vanderhoof’s developing club will learn from more established biking networks in communities such as Burns Lake, whose current trail network and park are the results of a 10-year plan, Barr added.

Their sustainability also comes from a larger biking community, as well as maintenance workshops where bikers, together, rake trails and ride once a week, he said.

For Stuart Sinclair, an avid mountain biker in Vanderhoof, the district’s trails are for all levels.

“I think they are a great resource for the community, and it’s a great way to introduce beginners to mountain biking,” Sinclair said. “It’s so close to town, you can just jump on your bike and ride to the trails.”

With the amount of government-owned land in the area, there are many opportunities for coordinated trail building in Vanderhoof, though new trails would require sustainable maintenance work from the biking community, he added.

“Get out and ride your bikes!” Sinclair said. “It’s as much fun when you’re a kid, it’s as much fun when you’re an adult.”

“Get out and ride your bikes...It’s as much fun when you’re a kid, it’s as much fun when you’re an adult.”

-Stuart Sinclair

2016: bigger bike camps, clinics for men Building on last year’s success, Vanderhoof’s bike club this summer looks to expand increase its bike camp registration to 30 kids — separating into four groups according to levels, Barr said.

Allowing easier management of skills for instructors, the level-specific groups will also encourage students to build confidence and selfesteem, he explained.

There will also be adult clinics for both men and women, with an end-of-year celebration barbecue for families and the community.

SUBMITTED photos

At Vanderhoof’s Rip’n the North BIke Club’s events in 2015, (top) Hyatt Verduzco jumping after a bike camp session, and a women’s clinic was participated by (from left) Sonya Zurevinski, Nicole Ebert, Lynda ForemanSharp, Stacy Batchelor, Sarah Barr, and Susie Blattner.