Vanderhoof Omineca Express, April 20, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

Inside

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DISTRICT-FORMER STAFF COURT DATES SET P. 2 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS P. 6-7

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POLICE UPDATE P. 3 VANDERHOOF BOY BEFRIENDS WHALE P. 12

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Wednesday, April 20, 2016

New projects for mental health support services

Volunteering and learning in colourful India

Vivian Chui Omineca Express

SUBMITTED photo

Nechako Valley Secondary students travelled to Delhi, India during Easter holidays on a volunteer trip filled with cultural activities such as henna painting, roti making, rickshaw and elephant riding. They will be hosting a water walk on Apr. 21 to gather funds for goats to families and water coolers to schools in rural India. See INDIA TRIP on page 10 and BRINGING WATER on page 11.

Vanderhoof’s mental health support team is revisiting protocols and communication tools to help overcome current service difficulties in town. On March 9, fourteen regional and local service providers, school representatives, and members of the local action team for a province-wide Shared Care initiative discussed youth mental health support in Vanderhoof at W. L. McLeod Elementary. For the first time, healers trained in traditional therapeutic methods such as Reiki, a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation, were also invited into the discussion to be part of the collaborative. All attending service providers echoed that currently available resources in the community are insufficient to handle the amount of mental health support needed, leading to long wait-lists and temporary solutions. A youth support worker recounted that for some families, it’s the youth who are the motivators at home, “cooking and making their parents go to work,” she said. “They don’t know where to go for help, and lots of services require a guardian,” she explained, adding that when parents are suffering from their own mental health or substance use issues, a responsible guardian is not always available. For others, it may be boredom after school, leading them to drug and alcohol abuse, she added. “They want someone who show that they care,” she said. For Todd Blattner, School District No. 91 counsellor, fourteen kids may be scheduled for appointments with him on one day, though there is generally only time to see seven or eight. “Many come into school without breakfast” he said, “And with sugary and starchy food for lunch, that is not very nutritious and this tends to make behaviour and emotional issues worse. “Sometimes all we can do is to try to make one moment better.” Danny Scoular, family services program manager of Nechako Valley Community Services Society stated that a mental health clinician may spend half their day of work travelling and jumping through system’s hoops with paperwork before they are able to spend meaningful time with youth. “We keep seeing kids, but we need to see and work with families as well and we’re not always able to do that,” Scoular said. “More and more, we’re just putting out fires on each crisis, but See SAVING FIRES, page 2

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Court dates set for District vs. former staff dispute Vivian Chui Omineca Express A disagreement between the District of Vanderhoof and a former staff member will be heard by the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal this June. In her wrongful dismissal suit filed March 25 this year and her complaint filed to the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal, the district’s former economic development officer Erin Siemens argues that she was suddenly dismissed for her perceived political beliefs, rather than simply due to the closure of her department as she was told.

On Nov. 13, the tribunal denied the district’s application to dismiss the case, as the district had not submitted evidence that disproves the allegations, states the tribunal in its decision. According to the HRT’s hearing schedule posted online, the case will be heard over 10 days from June 20 to 24, June 28 to 30, and July 4 to 5; hearing location has yet to be determined. According to the tribunal, the district argues a legitimate business or reorganization decision for Siemens’s dismissal, but the mayor and its councillors did not provide a document trail for the tribunal “to clearly

conclude when the District’s restructuring her friendship with mayoral candidate Jessi strategy was planned or implemented.” Wilson, who ran unsuccessfully against inThe district also “did not file any cumbent mayor Gerry Thiessen in the 2014 evidence or affidavits from the District’s civil election. [former] CAO denying his conversations As the civil case remains before court, with Ms. Siemens,” the tribunal states in its Siemens is claiming general and punitive decision. damages for her alleged wrongful dismissal, During her termination meeting, the interest, costs, and other relief as court district’s former CAO Evan Parliament deems just. allegedly alluded to Integris Community Theatre at NVSS Siemens that the reason lies in

Anne of Green Gables The Musical

April 21-23 & April 28-30, 2016 7 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) Tickets: $10 Adults $8 Students/Seniors VIVIAN CHUI photo

Local action team for mental health started its meeting on March 9 with a rhythm exercise.

“Just saving fires”: youth support MENTAL HEALTH, continued from front page the same crises emerge later on if we don’t have the time and resources to do preventative work.” W. L. McLeod teacher Patty Borek suggested that teachers can be advised on strategies that can be used in the classroom to help struggling students. For Ken Young, it’s moving to see the students who benefited from the help — a student who attended school once a week in the beginning is now graduating, for example. Other service providers said that some organizations in the region struggle with high turnover rates — funding is available but it’s difficult to attract or retain workers. This means that children may have a string of many counsellors and service providers — an inconsistency that is counterproductive to therapy. Part of the Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Use Collaborative, an initiative of the Shared Care Committee formed by Doctors of BC and B.C.’s Ministry of Health, the local action team will look to address communication barriers and service delivery gaps by focusing on three main projects in 2016: crisis response protocols, a community resource website, and client journey mapping, explained project lead Jeremy Blattner. Each of these projects are small steps the collaborative is hoping will make it easier for families to access services.

NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS Regular Board Meetings of the Board of Education of School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) for the months of April and May 2016 will be held as follows:

April 25, 2016 School Board Office, Vanderhoof, BC May 16, 2016 School Board Office, Vanderhoof, BC These meetings will commence at 6:00 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend. Darlene Turner Secretary-Treasurer

The Journey mapping is a research project that will map the many steps an individual takes to get mental health support within the current health system. It will “illustrate how arduous it is for someone to go through the system and what changes need to be made,” Scoular said. The website will serve as a hub, listing available resources and information on how to access local support. The format of the site will be user-friendly and youth-oriented. Updating crisis response protocols will address coordination of critical services and information sharing to support youth and families in need. Those interested in joining the Mental Health collaborative or getting more information on the work being done are advised to contact Jeremy Blattner at earthdim5@gmail.com.

($2 extra at the door) Tickets available at Vanderhoof Dept. Store, Wallace Studios & NVSS

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

BC SPCA your first adoption option! Kaiser is a handsome pit bull terrier x. He is only a year and seven months old. This guy is a big love who wants nothing but your attention and affection! He does require some basic manners and training to walk well on a lead. Kaiser loves to play and be active, but always has time for cuddles too. If you think thiss guy is the one for you you, come on down today! IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADOPT OR NEED MORE INFO PLEASE CALL

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567-3107

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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!

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567-9198 263 Vanderview Drive

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

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Wildfire fighting training

NEWS

Police Update

Dementia caregiver workshop

The Vanderhoof RCMP detachment lodged 69 files in the past week.

A full-day workshop for family members caring for a person with dementia will take place fom 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Apr. 21 at Riverside Place. Pre-registration with Leanne Ranes at 1-866564-7533 or lranes@ alzheimerbc.org is required for the day-long workshop, offered by donation.

BREAK FOR CHIPS AND DRUGS An impaired driving complaint reported to the police on Apr. 10 at noon morphed into a break-and-enter and drug possession case. Arriving at a residence on Blackwater Road, the police found an empty vehicle and a man exiting the house with a bag of chips. Detained for investigation, the man was found to have an existing warrant, as well as drugs in his possession upon search of his body and vehicle. Homeowners were away at the time. Appearing in court on Apr. 12, the man was released with conditions on avoiding the Blackwater residence, zero drug consumption, and no possession of break-and-enter tools.

May toddler fun in library In Vanderhoof Public Library this May: Rhymes and songs for 0 to 35-month-olds Early seps towards literacy and a love of books Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. May 3 to 31 Wiggles and Giggles for 3 to 5-year-olds Music and movement, stories and games Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. May 5 to 26

Fine arts scholarship Applications for BC Arts Council scholarships are now available to British Columbians attending a full-time arts degree or diploma program this fall, as well as to B.C. students in pre-professional half-day dance programs in combination with their high school studies. The application deadline is Apr. 30, with scholarships providing up to $6,000 each in financial assistance. Eligible disciplines include arts administration, community-based arts practice, museology, conservation, dance, media arts, theatre, music, curatorial practice, visual arts and creative writing. More information, including guidelines and application forms, can be found on https:// www.bcartscouncil. ca/guidelines/artists/ youth/scholarship_ awards.html

VIVIAN CHUI photo

On Apr. 14, Vanderhoof’s fire department performed wildland firefighting training on dry grass along Northside Road. The team responded to 10 minor calls in March, fire Chief Ian Leslie said.

Local growers alert: greenhouse opens, get listed for free It’s that time of the year again, for Vanderhoof’s green thumbs to shine. COMMUNITY GARDEN The Vanderhoof Community Garden, free for all to sign up and use, opened its greenhouse in April. Calendar for 2016 Feb: sign up for your plot(s) Apr: Greenhouse is open May: Outside plots ready for planting May-Aug: Garden work bees Sep: Harvest Celebration Oct: Clean-up plots for the winter Managed by the Nechako Valley Food Network, the garden aims to empower the community to grow and eat locally. It is accessible for people with varying physical abilities, such as wheelchairs and walkers, and securely fenced with a flush bathroom, water fountain, covered area, seating

and shared tool shed. The garden has divers options with a greenhouse, raised beds, and open ground plots. Offering free workshops throughout the year, the community garden is an opportunity for learning, mentorship, and volunteerism. More information can be found through bytes@nvfoodnetwork.ca and www.nvfoodnetwork.org. LOCAL PRODUCER DIRECTORY The May 1 deadline is approaching for local producers to be included, or last year’s information to be updated, in the free Nechako Valley Food Network Producer Directory. Interested individuals can email nvfoodnetwork.org, or contact Maya through sullmaya13@gmail. com or 250-570-219. The free directory will be ready for distribution by May 13 when the Vanderhoof Trade Show kicks off.

Investigation continues, and those with information are advised to contact the police at the detachment or anonymously through CrimeStoppers. CRIME REDUCTION PROGRAM CONTINUES Initiated on Nov. 13 by the local RCMP detachment to focus on its priority offenders, the crime reduction program, which includes curfew checks, continues with success, Sgt. Svend Nielsen said. Charges associated with breaching court-imposed conditions were over 12 in November, increased in December with the establishment of the program, and decreased to none associated with curfew conditions in February — due to four priority offenders in custody and constant checks by the police, he added. KENNEY DAM ASSAULT INVESTIGATION Investigation continues for an assault that occurred on Kenney Dam Road on Apr. 5. The police looks to contact a couple, who transported the victim into town when passing by, for more information.

DOMESTIC DISPUTE On Apr. 10, a man assaulting his wife and trying to remove her from a vehicle against her will was reported to the police at 7:30 p.m on Williams Crescent. During the struggle, the woman’s left foot was partially run over as the - with files from Sgt. Svend man drove away. Nielsen, Vanderhoof RCMP The RCMP arrived at the residence as the man returned, arresting the individual for charges on assault, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and failure to Here’s your chance to win the... remain at the scene of an accident. He was also charged for refusal of impaired driving test, as he OF THE denied alcohol tests on scene and in custody. Appearing in court A BLACK PRESS on Apr. 12, he was AWARD-WINNING CONTEST released on conditions We are seeking B.C.'s best amateur that included no contact with his wife, as well photographers to send in their as avoiding Vanderfavourite photos of an event, a hoof and Saik’uz First sport, a family image, and/or action Nation except for work requirements. shot within the last 12 months. The woman, remainSubmit up to 5 (ﬁve) of your ing in hospital for foot favourite shots between now injuries, is in stable and July 4th, then all photos condition.

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CO-OP BREAKAND-ENTER An overnight breakin at the Vanderhoof and Districts Co-op’s Home Centre was reported on Apr. 12. According to surveillance video, a person broke into the property’s industrial storage area by cutting through its gate and back fence, leaving with specific items for greenhouse building. The stolen items are estimated to be valued at $1,000.

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Michelle Roberge shows off her bees at the Bioscape Farm in Vanderhoof last spring. REBECCA WATSON photo

Demand up for local agriculture support Vivian Chui Omineca Express A challenge in promoting local agriculture may lie in the nature of the sector, a regional advocate say. On March 23, economic development project Beyond the Market celebrates its fifth anniversary with local farmers, supporters, and representatives from partner groups at the North Country Inn’s restaurant in Vanderhoof. The project involves providing a voice for the agricultural businesses of the region in trade shows, farmers’ markets, fall fairs, community events, and inter-sector meetings, explained Jillian Merrick, who recently passed her role as program coordinator to Christine Kinnie. “I spend as manny hours engaging with other sectors, as connecting with farmers,” she said. Compared to other industries such as mining, the agriculture sector involves many very small businesses with owners tied to their land. Representation of the industry is thus difficult to manage in multi-sector discussions, as well as having projects that work for many operators, Merrick said. For example, in Williams Lake, nine priorities were identified to promote agriculture in the community and 34 strategies were developed for two alone. Aiming to promote and support agriculture along Highway 16, the project started as an 18-month initiative and grew to also receive calls for assistance from other parts of the province, Merrick said. Through on-the-ground volunteers based out of various communities, the project provides one-on-one farm business coaching services and training sessions, as well as matched demand with supply in farm employment, products, and land. For some businesses, it may involve assisting with grant applications, and for others, it may be a matter of creating a website to connect with the rest of the community, Merrick explained. For Michelle Roberge, co-owner of the Vanderhoof-based Bioscape Farm and market manager of Vanderhoof Farmers’ Market, the program started when her business started. “We were clueless, and it helps us along,” Roberge said. The project is funded by the Omineca Beetle Action Coalition, the District of Fort St. James, and the Regional Districts of Fraser-Fort George, BulkleyNechako, and Kitimat-Stikine. RDBN creates agriculture committee For Mark Parker, RDBN’s director of Fraser Lake Rural and chair of its new agriculture committee, agriculture, with its diversified nature, can serve as the region’s diversification tool, he said. Started in February, the new agriculture committee was created in light of the current economic situation, Parker explained. “Part of it is we’re facing downturn in the commodity,” he said. “We’ve got a tough time in the mining industry, forestry is there but not a growing industry, whereas agriculture is probably one of things that can tide us through this and keep us going. “People will always want to eat.” Parker explained that some of the identified priorities so far include injecting youth into the industry’s aging population, expanding the production variety of the region to include other viable crops such as fruit-bearing trees, as well as keeping up to date with changes in the local Agricultural Land Reserves. “[The committee is] in its infancy stage, but it’s going to be a very solid move, with the enthusiasm and the feedback not just from the board, but also with the agriculture groups,” he said.

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. *** FAMILY CAREGIVER SERIES...Thursday April 21, 9am-3pm, Riverside Place, Vanderhoof - Workshop for people interested in learning more about dementia and how to care for someone living with the disease. We will cover the basics of dementia and explore changes in communication and behaviour. We will also discuss planning for the future and building resilience. Registrations are required. Light lunch will be provided. REGISTRATION DEADLINE April 18. Donations are greatly appreciated. Leanne Ranes, 250-5647533, lranes0914@gmail.com *** 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

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

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 Valley Secondary students rehearse for this year’s Anne of Green Gables musical production with full costume on March 19 at the Integris Community Theatre. 250-570-7496 *** STUART NECHAKO MANOR...looking for volunteers. Help needed with outings, Serving meals, entertainment and visits for the residents. Please contact Marnie at 250 567 6290 for more information. *** VOLUNTEERS NEEDED....Would you like to become part of a team working together to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors? The Vanderhoof Stroke Recovery Group is looking for volunteers to join their team. Vanderhoof Stroke 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 250-699-7763. *** 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. *** PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP ... Spruce Capital Seniors Rec Centre, 3701 Rainbow Drive, 2nd Saturday of every month, 2 p.m. (None July and August) Everyone Welcome!

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

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Mayor Gerry Thiessen

Councillor Darren Carpenter

Councillor Brian Frenkel

NEWS Councillor John Murphy

Councillor Ken Young

Councillor Kevin Moutray

Councillor Steve Little

Council: pool, rec centre, water tank updates AQUATIC CENTRE DESIGN UPDATE Meeting for the first time on Apr. 6, the Vanderhoof pool design committee discussed the possible funding scenarios the district is working towards. A series of questions were also raised for the pool’s architect, including: - If the scope of the project has been defined? - When the capital estimate would be established? - If the Geotechnical survey could be provided? - Whether the observation area would be large enough? - What might the additional costs be for having a sauna? - Does the initial pricing support the possibility of adding the second floor in the future? - Does the initial pricing support the possibility of adding the waterslide in the future? Meetings are open to the public, and the committee next met on Apr. 13 at 7:00 p.m. INTEGRIS RECREATION CENTRE UPDATE The centre’s renovation project will be committed to local contractor J. C.’s Waterworks Ltd., with the lowest bid at $650,000. Project timeline is to be determined, with an estimated finish-date in September.

WATER TANK REPLACEMENT DISCUSSION Replacement of Vanderhoof’s over-sixty-year-old reservoir, booster station, and upper trunk main is estimated to cost $3,605,000. The District of Vanderhoof looks to cover two-thirds of the cost by applying for the New Building Canada: Small Communities Fund, and the rest would be covered by the District. The district council considered options such as borrowing or building reserves, and the discussion is deferred to the next budget meeting on Apr. 18. Engineers reviewing the system three years ago found some deterioration on its walls, and advised that the tank would need to be replaced in three to five years from now. NEW DISTRICT FOREMAN Chad Westbrook, the District of Vanderhoof’s new public works foreman, started work on Mar. 31. Originally from Colorado, Westbrook moved to Vanderhoof eight years ago when he married his Vanderhoof-born wife. He spent his last 22 years working for municipalities in Colorado and Utah, where he became the parks and recreation

Restoration burns in April The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and the Society for Ecosystem Restoration in North Central B.C. will be conducting a series of ecosystem restoration burns near Vanderhoof between April 4 and April 25, 2016, weather and site conditions permitting. Trained BC Wildfire Service personnel will carefully monitor these fires at all times. Smoke from these controlled burns may be visible from the community of Vanderhoof and surrounding areas. Barlow Forest Service Road, about 15 kilome-

Technopure

tres northwest of Vanderhoof: These prescribed burns will be conducted in three different locations along the Barlow Forest Service road, south of the Clearview Landfill site and west of Highway 27. Burn projects such as these help create landscape-level fuel breaks, reduce accumulations of forest fuels, mitigate the severity of future wildfires, and decrease wildfire risks for nearby communities. Fire is a natural, normal process in many ecosystems and is beneficial for maintaining a healthy forest and a diversity of plant and animal life.

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superintendent. In Vanderhoof, he worked in industrial construction for the mining and logging industries, as well as safety consulting. BEDNESTI LOG CABIN UPDATE Discussion continues between the District of Vanderhoof and Saik’uz First Nation on moving a Saik’uz-owned log cabin in Bednesti to the grounds of the Vanderhoof Community Museum by the end of this year or in early 2017. Potential funding sources include the B.C. Rural dividend as well as regional foundations. A geotechnical study will be done on the building’s future location on museum grounds. With capacity to hold up to 200 people, the 3,250-square-foot building may be turned into an arts cultural centre. Next discussion will take place at the log building on Apr. 20. - with files from the District of Vanderhoof

TAX TIPS & Traps

Who claims the CPP Death benefit on their tax return? The Canada Pension Plan or Quebec Pension Plan death benefit is a one-time, lump-sum payment made to the estate upon the death of a contributor. Death benefits are shown in box 18 of a T4A(P) slip. If you received this amount and you are a beneficiary of the deceased person’s estate, you can choose to include it on line 114 of your own return or on a T3 Trust Income Tax and Information Return for the estate. Do not report it on the deceased person’s individual return. The taxes payable may be different, depending on which return you use. If you are not the sole beneficiary of the estate you can have your tax preparer calculate the tax implication of the benefit so that the estate can reimburse you. For more info see our website:

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$50,000,000

EEF Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

NEEF.CA â&#x20AC;˘ FACEBOOK.COM/NEEFSOCIETY

to enhance the environment of the Nechako River watershed.

NEEF PROJECTS IN THE NECHAKO VALLEY To date three project have received funding and are successfully being implemented. Read more about these projects at www.neef.ca.

Integrated Watershed Research in the Nechako River Basin - NEEF Funding: $500,000

The Nechako River at Vanderhoof. The Nechako River is home to over 20 species of fish, including the endangered Nechako white sturgeon.

Skins Lake Spillway releases water from the Nechako Reservoir into the Cheslatta system, which flows into the Nechako River.

ABOUT NEEF

OBJECTIVES AND FUNDING OPTIONS

As part of the BC/Alcan 1997 Agreement between the Province of British Columbia and Rio Tinto (Alcan), two funds were established: the Nechako Kitamaat Development Fund ($15M), which is directed towards economic development; and, the Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund (NEEF). A NEEF Management Committee (NEEF MC) was assigned to review, assess and report on options for the downstream enhancement of the Nechako River watershed area. It was agreed that the fund would be granted on a matching dollar basis with Rio Tinto contributing 50% or a total of $50 million dollars. As a result, the potential for a minimum $100 million dollars could be spent on projects that enhance the Nechako watershed. The NEEF MC manages the fund on behalf of Rio Tinto and the Province of BC. In 2015, the NEEF MC formed the NEEF Society. The NEEF Society is responsible for reviewing proposals and deciding on which projects to fund. Preference is given to proposals that support the objectives of the fund and have a detailed project budget, have clear deliverables, and incorporate PHDVXUHV WR HQVXUH ÂżQDQFLDO DFFRXQWDELOLW\ )RU more information on the funding, please contact the NEEF Administator by email or phone. Also visit www.neef.ca for more details about NEEF history and current projects. To learn more about NEEF and to discuss your idea for a project, contact: DAN BOUDREAU, NEEF ADMINISTRATOR P.O. Box 101, Prince George, BC V2L 4R9 Phone: 1.250.964.6334 Fax: 1.888.648.3875 administrator@neef.ca www.neef.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/NEEFSociety

Since the 1997 Agreement is primarily concerned with water, NEEF MC concluded that NEEF funding for environmental enhancement in the Nechako River watershed should be related to water. As such four RSWLRQV ZHUH LGHQWLÂżHG 1 &KDQJHV LQ Ă&#x20AC;RZ LQ WKH &KHVODWWD DQG 1HFKDNR rivers. This includes changes related to Skins Lake 6SLOOZD\ GLVFKDUJHV DQG FKDQJHV LQ Ă&#x20AC;RZ DFKLHYHG through other enhancement initiatives; 2 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ RI ÂżVK KDELWDW DQG ÂżVK SRSXODWLRQV LQ the Cheslatta and Nechako rivers; 3 Promotion, education and stewardship of water in the Nechako and Cheslatta watersheds; and 4 ,PSURYHPHQWV WR KRZ ZDWHU Ă&#x20AC;RZ UHJXODWLRQ decisions are made in consideration of all environmental aspects. By 2012, the NEEF MC had completed a second public consultation process designed to identify options for environmental enhancement. Overall the NEEF MC held four public meetings, eleven meetings with VSHFLÂżF VWDNHKROGHUV DQG D IXUWKHU IRXU PHHWLQJV ZLWK scientists and subject matter experts. In the end a total of six potential options for downstream enhancement RI WKH 1HFKDNR ZDWHUVKHG ZHUH LGHQWLÂżHG 1 A Water Release Facility at Kenney Dam remains a key interest to stakeholders. Up to 80% of the total potential NEEF will continue to be available for construction of a Water Release Facility at Kenney Dam. The NEEF MC remains hopeful this will eventually be built; 2 $1M to prepare for an Environmental Assessment for a Water Release Facility; 3 $2M for tributary watershed restoration and water stewardship; 4 $1M for Cheslatta Watershed Restoration; 5 $1M for integrated watershed research; 6 $4M for operation of a Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Hatchery.

The University of Northern BC houses the Integrated Watershed Research Group (IWRG) comprising: Stephen DĂŠry (Environmental Science Program), Philip Owens (Forest Renewal BC Chair in Landscape Ecology), Ellen Petticrew (Forest Renewal BC Chair in Landscape Ecology), and Margot Parkes (Canada Research Chair in Health, Ecosystems and Society). This project will enhance the environment in the Nechako River Basin by LQYHVWLJDWLQJ VHGLPHQW VRXUFHV DQG G\QDPLFV YDULDELOLW\ DQG WUHQGV LQ VQRZSDFN DQG VWUHDPĂ&#x20AC;RZ DQG WRROV IRU integration in watershed management and governance. LEFT TOP: UNBC researchers take river bank sediment samples to help identify downstream sources of sediment in the Nechako River. In other words they are taking sediment fingerprints!

Nechako River Sustainability - NEEF Funding: $1,000,000

NECHAKO ENVIRONMENT & WATER STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

Nechako Environmental and Water Stewardship Society (NEWSS) has been RSHUDWLQJ LQ WKH 1HFKDNR 9DOOH\ VLQFH DQG ZDV RIÂżFLDOO\ IRUPHG DV D VRFLHW\ LQ 2013. NEWSS aspires to maintain sustainable water in the Nechako watershed and to create a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents and visitors to the area. The vision of NEWSS is to act in an advisory capacity for both landowners and government, to inspire people, landowners and industry to demonstrate land and water stewardship. Utilizing funding from NEEF and other funders, NEWSS will carry out stream restoration works on 30 streams within the Nechako watershed. Projects will include stream bank stabilization, fencing (keeping livestock out of VWUHDPV ÂľKDUGHQLQJÂś OLYHVWRFN VWUHDP FURVVLQJV UH HVWDEOLVKLQJ ULSDULDQ ]RQHV DQG HQVXULQJ ÂżVK SDVVDJH E\ replacing impassible culverts. NEWSS will further its role of stewardship by creating resources and educational tools for stakeholders in the watershed to further their understanding of water stewardship. As well, NEWSS will build relationships with rural communities and all users of the Nechako watershed and facilitate ongoing conversation to exchange knowledge, share perspective and explore opportunities for cooperative learning with First Nations, community residents, landowners, industry leaders, grade schools, universities and government agencies. LEFT MIDDLE: Shown here is a new culvert at a road crossing on Murray Creek. The old culvert prevented fish from moving upstream during certain times of the year when the flow was low or very high. The new culvert now allows for fish passage. This is one example of a stream rehabilitation project that NEWSS undertakes to improve fish habitat.

White Sturgeon Conservation Fish Culture Program NEEF Funding: $4,000,000 The Nechako River population of white sturgeon is genetically distinct from white sturgeon in the Fraser River. Since the 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s there has been a noticeable decline in young Nechako white sturgeon. Currently there are URXJKO\ ÂżVK FRPSDUHG WR KLVWRULFDO HVWLPDWHV RI VHYHUDO WKRXVDQG 7KURXJK UHVHDUFK LW LV EHOLHYHG WKDW WKH PDMRULW\ RI VWXUJHRQ DUH G\LQJ LQ WKH ÂżUVW ZHHNV RU PRQWK DIWHU KDWFKLQJ 7KH ODFN RI \RXQJ VWXUJHRQ VXUYLYLQJ to maturity has lead to the high chance the population will go extinct within a few decades without immediate intervention. The Nechako White Sturgeon Recovery Initiative (NWSRI) works toward solutions for restoring D QDWXUDOO\ SURGXFLQJ VWXUJHRQ SRSXODWLRQ 7KH 1:65, KDV GHYHORSHG D ÂżVK FXOWXUH SURJUDP WKDW FDQ DFW immediately to help preserve genetic diversity and rebuild the population. 7KH ÂżVK FXOWXUH SURJUDP LV UXQ E\ )UHVKZDWHU )LVKHULHV 6RFLHW\ RI %& DW WKH 1HFKDNR :KLWH 6WXUJHRQ &RQVHUYDWLRQ &HQWUH LQ 9DQGHUKRRI <RXQJ VWXUJHRQ DUH UDLVHG WKURXJK WKHLU ÂżUVW \HDU RI OLIH DQG WKHQ UHOHDVHG EDFN LQWR WKH river each May. The conservation centre will be able to produce up to 12,000 juvenile sturgeon per year helping to secure the genetic diversity of this imperiled population for future generations. Other NWSRI initiatives include the development of a Nechako white sturgeon school curriculum, as well as guided and self-guided tours at the Conservation Centre. LEFT BOTTOM: A roughly 60 year old Nechako white sturgeon caught during brood capture for the Fish Culture Program.

CMYK

A8 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

www.ominecaexpress.com A9

$50,000,000

EEF Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

NEEF.CA â&#x20AC;˘ FACEBOOK.COM/NEEFSOCIETY

to enhance the environment of the Nechako River watershed.

NEEF PROJECTS IN THE NECHAKO VALLEY To date three project have received funding and are successfully being implemented. Read more about these projects at www.neef.ca.

Integrated Watershed Research in the Nechako River Basin - NEEF Funding: $500,000

The Nechako River at Vanderhoof. The Nechako River is home to over 20 species of fish, including the endangered Nechako white sturgeon.

Skins Lake Spillway releases water from the Nechako Reservoir into the Cheslatta system, which flows into the Nechako River.

ABOUT NEEF

OBJECTIVES AND FUNDING OPTIONS

Nechako River Sustainability - NEEF Funding: $1,000,000

NECHAKO ENVIRONMENT & WATER STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

CMYK

A8 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

www.ominecaexpress.com A9

$50,000,000

EEF Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

NEEF.CA â&#x20AC;˘ FACEBOOK.COM/NEEFSOCIETY

to enhance the environment of the Nechako River watershed.

NEEF PROJECTS IN THE NECHAKO VALLEY To date three project have received funding and are successfully being implemented. Read more about these projects at www.neef.ca.

Integrated Watershed Research in the Nechako River Basin - NEEF Funding: $500,000

The Nechako River at Vanderhoof. The Nechako River is home to over 20 species of fish, including the endangered Nechako white sturgeon.

Skins Lake Spillway releases water from the Nechako Reservoir into the Cheslatta system, which flows into the Nechako River.

ABOUT NEEF

OBJECTIVES AND FUNDING OPTIONS

Nechako River Sustainability - NEEF Funding: $1,000,000

NECHAKO ENVIRONMENT & WATER STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

CMYK

A8 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

www.ominecaexpress.com A9

$50,000,000

EEF Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

NEEF.CA â&#x20AC;˘ FACEBOOK.COM/NEEFSOCIETY

to enhance the environment of the Nechako River watershed.

NEEF PROJECTS IN THE NECHAKO VALLEY To date three project have received funding and are successfully being implemented. Read more about these projects at www.neef.ca.

Integrated Watershed Research in the Nechako River Basin - NEEF Funding: $500,000

The Nechako River at Vanderhoof. The Nechako River is home to over 20 species of fish, including the endangered Nechako white sturgeon.

Skins Lake Spillway releases water from the Nechako Reservoir into the Cheslatta system, which flows into the Nechako River.

ABOUT NEEF

OBJECTIVES AND FUNDING OPTIONS

Nechako River Sustainability - NEEF Funding: $1,000,000

NECHAKO ENVIRONMENT & WATER STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

CMYK

A10 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

NEWS

Volunteer school trip to India: a life-changing experience with colour, contrasts Submitted by Anna Pye, Nechako Valley Secondary NVSS students and staff travelled to Delhi, India on a volunteer trip that was full of adventure, colour and contrasts. They participated in numerous volunteer activities including making rotti bread at a community center and playing with children at Mother Theresa’s mission. Students danced, shared ideas and painted new chalkboards and walls in a tiny school in Ranthambore and planted trees at a rural hospital. We visited a wonderfully organized school for differently abled learners and spent time reading and enjoying the company and looking at the skill building activities. The chaos of the traffic was felt as they ventured on rickshaw rides through Old Delhi. Henna tattoos, Yoga, Safari adventures, poolside lounging and riding elephants were all part of the adventure but one of the favourite stops was at the Elephant village where they fed elephants sugar cane and painted bright and beautiful designs on them. There were a few cultural evenings with puppet shows, fire dancing and of course snake charmers. Many monuments, palaces and mosques were visited such as: Palace of Jodha Bai, Red Fort, Magic Show, Palace of the winds, Humayun`s Tomb and the most spectacular Taj Mahal. They followed duff duff buses with blaring music and witnessed the long lines of travellers on a pilgrimage. They are blessed. India has shared with them a lovely secret and a charm that will be with them forever. The calm amongst the storm and beauty within struggle; these contradictions and beautiful awakenings will not be forgotten. Staff and students would like to thanks all sponsors, people who attended the Taste of India, Mandalas and Martinis and to all those who participated in any of the year-long fundraising that we were part of. This trip has changed many lives! Namaste

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Express

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COMMUNITY

Bringing goats, water to rural India Submitted by Anna Pye, Nechako Valley Secondary NVSS leadership students in collaboration with Evelyn Dickson Elementary and W. L. McLeod Elementary will be hosting a water walk on Apr. 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Proceeds will go to buying goats for families in rural communities and new insulated water coolers for a local school in Rajasthan, India. Its water system is made of concrete and new cooler would allow students to have cool, clean water to drink during the heat of the day. This is our second annual water walk at NVSS. A couple of summers ago I took a group of students to Kenya and it was there that we participated in our very first water walk. We helped the mamas of a small village carry water a few km and she cheered and cried with joy. They shared with us the struggle of having no access to clean water and the heights they must reach to retrieve water for daily use such as dishes, laundry, etcetera. While in Kenya, we built a foundation for a school and the awesome thing about that is that every school built in the area also has a well with clean water. Students can attend school and bring clean water home after school. We do the water walk in honour of the mamas and in remembrance of how grateful we should be and it is in that gratefulness that we also learn about conservation. The students will have challenges and notes on how much water they carry and examples such as walk this far for a 10-minute shower and this is how much water you will need, etcetera. It does make us re-think some of our old ways!

DUTY Canada’s pipeline companies have a duty to move energy with care. When a route crosses a river or stream, many steps are taken to protect precious water, natural habitat, and earn our continued right to operate. Learn more about CEPA Integrity First® and how pipelines are operated safely, across Canada, each and every day.

Delivering Canada’s energy. Every day. Learn more about our preparedness measures at: aboutpipelines.com

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NEWS

Whale’s best friend from the ‘hoof thanks rescue team Lucas befriended Chester over a series of visits to the Vancouver Aquarium. SUBMITTED photos

LORRAINE’S BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICE Lucas Nielsen, centre, chilled at Chesterman Beach with his mother Claire and the Parks Canada and DFO team that courageously rescued his friend Chester the false killer whale in 2014. The trip was organized by Tourism Tofino who joined Lucas at the beach along with Mayor Josie Osborne. BLACK PRESS FILE photo

Lucas Nielsen traveled to Tofino in March to meet the heroes who rescued his best friend in Vancouver two years ago. Nielsen, a ten-year-old Vanderhoof local, visits Vancouver’s Children’s Hospital regularly to receive eye treatments and during one of these visits he met Chester the false killer whale at the Vancouver Aquarium. Chester was just a baby when he was rescued near Tofino in 2014 and has since made a home at the aquarium. “He has a great personality, he’s really funny and I just think he’s pretty awesome,” Lucas told the Westerly. “He’s my friend and I’m his friend.” Lucas’ mother Claire was delighted to see him meet the Parks Canada and DFO team that helped rescue Chester. “Being so involved in Chester’s story now for the last year, there was just a real piece missing and that was meeting his rescuers and seeing where he was actually found,” Claire said. “It’s really important I think for us to wrap the full circle of the story and see where it first began.” The Nielsen’s Tofitian experience was organized by Tourism Tofino and Claire said they were treated like “royalty.” “This has been the most generous and gracious experience,” she said. “It’s everything that I had dreamed it would be, including the incredible weather, so we’re really grateful. It just feels right and every part of it feels like a completion of the story.” She added Tofino’s landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the emotional experience. “This rivals anything I’ve ever seen; it’s absolutely stunning here,” she said. “Lucas has said it’s his favourite place in the world that he’s ever been and he’s quite a well traveled little boy so that’s pretty neat.” She said Lucas’ friendship with Chester was a very special gift from the start. “[Chester] was smiling at him and following him around and sharing food with him and chirping at him; it was very obvious that Chester recognized Lucas and Lucas said to me ‘Chester’s my best friend here in Vancouver,” she said. “That was a really big thing for me to see. My son really needed a friend…and to make friends with this marine mammal, who is like a big dog, was really very special. It’s sweet and every mom wants their child to be able to have friends.” Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne was thrilled to meet Lucas and learn about his connection with Chester.

OPEN: Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm

“This is something that makes Tofino really special and unique amongst tourism destinations. It’s more than just a place to be entertained or have a good time; it’s somewhere you can really feel connected to nature,” she said. Lucas and Chester Earlier this spring, Lucas presented to close to 30 Vancouver Aquarium staff his research on Chester and was invited onto the deck to feed the false killer whale. For him, the species should be named Amicus Delphinus, or friendly dolphin, instead. “I want them to have their own name, and not named after a species that they are not,” Lucas said, adding that he would like to become a marine biologist one day. “I just like working with waterbased animals.” It was a presentation that brought Nicole Cann, the aquarium’s manager of interpretive delivery, to tears, she said. “Seeing this child become so inspired about aquatic life because of his relationship with one animal that he wants to come in and show us how much he’s learned and how much what we do matters to him,” Cann said. “It is a very emotional, powerful reminder why we come to work everyday.”

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Some notes on plastic! Did you know that plastic is very durable, easy to produce and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes? Did you also know that plastic is typically made to last forever and does not biodegrade, that means that the plastic bottle you throw away can sit in the landfill for centuries or more. What about recycling the plastic bottle? Recycling is fantastic and I highly recommend to recycle wherever you can, but understand that when it comes to plastics you don’t actually recycle, but you ‘down-cycle’ which just means that plastic becomes more plastic that require more energy and fuels to create. Did you know that plastic spoils groundwater? Over times the chemical laden plastics leech their chemicals into the soil, typically this toxic soup makes its way into the groundwater, unlike biodegradable products, plastic makes no sense for us or our planet. For more information and to stay up to date check out www.plasticpollutioncoalition.org or our local www.nechakowri.org to see how to reduce waste with the help of our local gurus Or call to enquire about any upcoming information sessions – or to host an event yourself

Magdalena Saito Holistic Health Practitioner

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

Young Living Essential Oils Distributor & ReÁexologist

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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS TRAVEL

BARG, Ada

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CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canadabeneﬁt.ca/free-assessment 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 13 April 2016 Reservoir Elevation: 851.57 m (2793.87 ft.) SLS Discharge: 49 m3/ Nechako at Vanderhoof: 99 m/3s

Overall Snowpack: 80% of long term average for this time of year. Spillway discharge was increased to 49 m3/s on 12 April. This level of discharge will be maintained until Summer Temperature Management Program begins in July. 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/index.htm.for up to date snowpack information. Development of the new “Flow Facts” website is progressing and should available in the next week or two. Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-5675105 for more information. A recording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250567-5812

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1930 – 2016

Mrs. Ada Elizabeth Barg (nee Burkholder) of Red Deer, Alberta, passed away at Harmony Care Home, Red Deer on Monday, April 11, 2016 at the age of 85 years. Ada was born on June 20, 1930 at Markham, Ontario, the daughter of Amos and Fanny Burkholder. She moved out west; and taught school in Northern Alberta. After marrying her husband, Philip, she moved to British Columbia where they farmed at Chilliwack and also at Vanderhoof. After finally moving to Red Deer in 1999, Ada kept busy volunteering at the Golden Circle, Potter’s Hands, the Red Deer Food Bank and sewing baby blankets for Ronald McDonald House. Ada will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Katherine Barg and her favorite son-in-law, Jeff Pennington. She will also be sadly missed by her sisters-in-law, Edna Barg, Anna Barg, and Evelyn Burkholder; as well as several nieces and nephews. Ada was predeceased by her beloved husband, Philip in 1997. A Celebration of Ada’s Life was held at Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer, Alberta on Friday, April 15, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations in Ada’s honor may be made directly to the Potter’s Hands Ministry at PO Box 27093, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 6X8 or to the Red Deer Food Bank Society at 7429 – 49 Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 1N2. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com. Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040 or 1.800.481.7421.

Community Newspapers We’re at the heart of things™ Wayne Leonard Hockett December 17th, 1929 – April 5th, 2016 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Hockett, a devoted and loving husband of Margaret Wreggitt and father of Sandi (Murray) Sasges, Shelley (Jim) Peters, Diana (Chris) Welt, Gary (Kristy) Hockett and Andrew (Becky) Wreggitt. He will be lovingly remembered by his 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren along with numerous extended family members and friends. Wayne was preceded in death by his first wife; Charlotte, his brothers; Everett and Marvin Hockett and by his parents; Fernando and Agnes Hockett. Wayne was born in Dallas, Oregon and moved his family to Canada in 1962 where they built a house on the Nechako River near Fort Fraser, B.C. In 1977, Wayne’s first wife Charlotte died of cancer and in 1985 he married Margaret Wreggitt. After retirement they bought and operated a fishing lodge “Nithi on the Lake” on Francois Lake. In 2008 Wayne and Margaret moved to Vernon. Cremation preceded a Celebration of Wayne’s Life which was held at Bethel Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 11th, 2016 at 2:00 P.M. with Mr. Brian Jackson officiating. A Reception followed in the Bethel Tea Room. Wayne will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. Funeral arrangements have been made with BETHEL FUNERAL CHAPEL LTD., 5605 27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5 (250) 542 1187

The 899 Vanderhoof Air Cadets and Parents Sponsoring Committee would like to thank the community and the following businesses/people for their support of our spaghetti dinner and silent auction. A&W Badger’s Movies &Games California Dreamin’ Dadz Muffler Dollar Central Fountain Tires KB’s Auto Detailing Napa Auto Parts Nechako Valley Feeds P&H Supplies RGC Consulting Sarb Sabberwahl Shirley Atkinson Super Value-Fraser Lake Village Inn Westline Ford

All West Glass Bacchus U-Brew Cathy Drappier- It Works Daily Perk Doreen Boon Glen Pearce Krystal Vanden Bos New Fraser Lake Restaurant Nechako Veterinary Clinic Paradise Hill Design Redneck Princess Photography Sew-Rite Designs Shotgun Enterprises Vanderhoof Flying Club Wayne Ray Woodpecker Valley Construction

Amy Somers Blue Valley Enterprises Copper-T Ranch Daidem Promotional Imprinter Faitron Communications Gription Tires Market Hair Salon Nechako Lumber/L&M Newsat Farms Plateau Sawmill Roshell’s Restaurant Shear Madness Streamline Signs Ventin Vitamin House West Fraser Mill Your Independent Grocery’s

If we accidently missed your business/name, we are very sorry and greatly appreciate your support.

A14 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

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Career Opportunities

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF Job Posting Huckleberry Mines Ltd is a 19,000 TPD open pit copper/molybdenum mine located 121 km south of Houston in west central British Columbia. We are currently recruiting for following positions to join our team on 4 month temporary contract:

ELECTRICIAN Reporting to the Electrical Supervisor, this position is responsible for the installation, commissioning, repair, and maintenance of all electrical apparatus in the mineral processing plant, crusher, camp facilities and other areas of the mine. You must be able to perform in a team oriented environment of electrical and instrumentation peers. 7he successful candidate must possess an ,nterprovincial Electrical certiŵcation and \earső e[perience. &andidates Zith mining or industrial e[perience Zill be given preference. ,nstrumentation, 3/& and programming e[perience Zould be considered an asset. *ood interpersonal and communication sNills are a must. 7he electrician position ZorNs a [ schedule da\s in, da\s out ZorNing hour da\s. 0ust have oZn tools of the trade.

MILLWRIGHT Reporting to the 0ill 0aintenance Supervisor and ZorNing closel\ Zith other tradesmen and the operations department, the successful applicant will be responsible for maintenance work in the mill, crusher, and other areas of the mine. Duties will include planned and preventative maintenance on the S$* mill, ball mills, crusher, conve\or belts, pumps and other eTuipment. 7he successful candidate must possess am ,nterprovincial 0illwright ,ndustrial 0echanic ticket and have at least \earső e[perience in a mining or industrial environment. 3reference will be given to applicants with individuals who have welding e[perience. *ood interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this position. 7he 0illwright position works a [ schedule da\s in, da\s out working hour da\s. $pplicants must have own tools of the trade. rd or th \ear apprentices will be considered.

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN :e are looking for a self starter who can work safel\ with minimal supervision, work well in a team environment and have e[cellent interpersonal and communications skills. 7he successful candidate will report to the 0ine 0aintenance Supervisor and be responsible for preventative maintenance, repair and servicing of all light dut\ vehicles in +uckleberr\ 0ines Ŷeet. 7his includes pickup trucks, service trucks, forklifts and bobcats. $pplicants must possess a Mourne\person automotive technician Tualiŵcation or an ,nterprovincial $utomotive 7echnician ticket. E[perience with )ord and 7o\ota light trucks would be an asset. 7he automotive technician position works a [ schedule da\s in, da\s out working hour da\s. Applicants must have own tools of the trade. Huckleberry Mines is located approximately two hours driving time from Houston, British Columbia. Employees live in a camp environment on their days of work. Transportation to and from the mine site is provided from Houston by bus and while at the mine site all meals and accommodations are provided free of charge to employees. We thank all applicants for their interest in Huckleberry Mines Ltd., but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 4ualiŵed candidates can submit their resumes in conŵdence to

Arena/Parks Lead Hand The District of Vanderhoof is seeking a person to fill the newly created position of Arena/Parks Lead Hand. This is a full-time, unionized position to commence immediately. We offer a competitive salary and a full range of benefits, this position reports to the Public Works Foreman. The Arena and Parks Lead Hand is responsible for the operation of the Arena and effective maintenance of parks and recreation facilities. This position requires flexible work hours to meet operational requirements. A more detailed job description is available on our website @ http://www.vanderhoof.ca/District/Employment_BIDS.html SKILLS • Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work projects • Ability to supervise others, including instructions to workers in proper methods and procedures to carry out assigned duties • Ability to work independently and exercise independence in judgement • Ability to interact effectively with staff, external groups and organizations including community groups and the general public QUALIFICATIONS • Demonstrated supervisory and communication skills • Ability to lead and function on a team environment • High School Diploma, or the equivalent work related experience • First Aid & CPR are mandatory • Level I & II Arena Operations Certification and/or interest in receiving appropriate education • Arena Maintenance-Zamboni Certification and/or interest in receiving appropriate education • Knowledge and experience in Arena and Ice Making operations • Knowledge and experience in general Building Maintenance and the use of Maintenance Equipment • Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety standards To apply for this position please submit your resume to Lori Egli, Deputy Corporate Officer; email: loriegli@district.vanderhoof.ca The deadline to submit your application is 4:00 pm on April 22nd, 2016 We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Human Resources Department Huckleberry Mines Ltd. P.O. Box 3000 Houston, BC V0J 1Z0

Imagine a job that fits your life.

Email: HR@Huckleberrymines.com

Full-time & part-time positions available Immediately (All Shifts)

Help Wanted

Roy & Diane Kells

Livestock FOR SALE: Registered Red Angus bulls for sale off the ranch. Forage raised, all shots and semen tested. The late Walter Read spent over 25 years breeding Red Angus cattle with good feet, nicely tucked up udders, quiet dispositions and calving ease. Complete dispersal of all machinery June 25, 2016 at the ranch. Contact: Audrey Read, (250) 6996990, Diamond X Ranch Ltd. Endako, B.C. V0J 1L0

Saturday May 28, 2016 For photos and complete listings, go to allwestauctions.com For more info call Henry at 250-567-4842

Career More than Opportunities 1.5 million Shaper Sheet Canadian Metal Ltd. families are in Interested in the Sheet Metal Trade? Shaper Sheet Metal is accepting resumes need of Ltd. affordable to join our team. housing. Your Apply in person: 342 Stewart St. W., Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 or Call: 250-567-2078 contributions provides Habitat More than with 1.5 themillion resources Canadian it needs to help families are in families. need of affordable Career Opportunities

housing. Your contributions provides Habitat with the resources it needs to help families.

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RESTAURANT TEAM MEMBERS

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. www.spca.bc.ca

RESTAURANT TEAM Starting Pay $10.45 - $11.00MEMBERS per hr $10.45- $11.00(NOC:6212) per hr &Starting TEAMPay SUPERVISORS

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www.habitat.ca www.habitat.ca

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A15

Merchandise for Sale

Real Estate

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Townhouses

For Sale: Scooter - 4 wheel Electric, red in color. Like new. Pride Victory 10. New 24 volt charger cost $400.00. Sell for $950.00. Phone 250567-4018.

POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and installation. Call John at 403998-7907; jcameron@advancebuildings.com.

REFORESTATION NURSERY seedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free shipping. Replacement guarantee. 1-866873-3846 or www.treetime.ca

House for sale: 2 bedroom bungalow on a large lot. Quiet neighbourhood and close to hospital. Phone 250-567-2443

ABOVE THE REST!

Victoria Manor

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

For Sale: Scooter - 4 wheel Ultra-lite-fold and go handicap scooter. Like new. New oversized battery. Regular battery, also like new. New battery charger, $300.00 worth of new accessories. Sell for $850.00. Phone 250-567-4018.

SHOP LOCALLY

Garage Sales

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on most cellular networks.

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Out with the Old in with the New - Garage Sale/Yard Sale time! Stop by the Omineca Express now!!! Special pricing to our valued readers - list your items for sale

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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.

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Recreational/Sale

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In the Classifieds

VANDERHOOF AND AREA BUSINESS DIRECTORY

EXCAVATING PRAIRIEDALE EXCAVATING

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

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ADVERTISING

ADvertiser STUART NECHAKO

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

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

Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972 Pam Berger Publisher

250-996-8482 Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070

Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

Advertising: advertising@ominecaexpress.com News: newsroom@caledoniacourier.com Website: www.caledoniacourier.com

Reaching Every Door

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

Pam Berger Publisher 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, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

Express

COMMUNITY

College of New Caledonia Aboriginal Cultural Week

VIvian Chui Omineca Express Students and staff of the College of New Caledonia in Vanderhoof, as well as community members, learned about Carrier culture through traditional food, stories, crafts, and language over a week of lunch-hour events from April 11 to 15 at CNC’s Vanderhoof campus. The eighth annualAboriginal Cul-

tural Week is funded by the Aborginal Service Plan aims to encourage aborginal participation, provide a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all, and bring people together with food, said aboriginal liaison advisor Sarah John. After an event kick-off on Monday, participants learned to make dream catchers on Tuesday, got a taste of traditional fishing with demonstration on Wednesday, listened

to stories and drank wild Labrador tea with Saik’uz First Nation elders on Thursday, and learned about traditional Carrier customs — such as potlatches — and Carrier language and pronunciation through a session of the aborignal cultural competency workshop, normally offered through CNC’s continuing education program, on Friday. More details and photos to come in the next Omineca Express Edition.