vanderhoof omineca express, april 20, 2016

EExpressO M I N E C A

$1.30 Inc. GSTVol. 38 No. 08

Serving Vanderhoof ● Fort Fraser ● Fraser Lake & Areawww.ominecaexpress.com Wednesday, April 20, 2016

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

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● ●Inside POLICE UPDATE P. 3

VANDERHOOF BOY BEFRIENDS WHALE P. 12

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Vivian ChuiOmineca Express

Vanderhoof’s mental health support team is revisiting proto-cols and communication tools to help overcome current service diffi culties 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 fi rst 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 insuffi cient 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 bet-ter.”

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 fami-lies as well and we’re not always able to do that,” Scoular said. “More and more, we’re just putting out fi res on each crisis, but

See SAVING FIRES, page 2

New projects for mental health

support services

Volunteering and learning in colourful India

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.

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 benefi ted from the help — a student who at-tended school once a week in the beginning is now graduating, for example.

Other service providers said that some organiza-tions in the region struggle with high turnover rates — funding is available but it’s diffi cult to attract or retain workers. This means that children may have a string of many counsellors and service provid-ers — 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 com-munity resource website, and client journey map-ping, 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.

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 sys-tem. It will “illustrate how arduous it is for some-one 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 [email protected].

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca ExpressA2 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

VANDERHOOF’S VANDERHOOF’S FAITHFAITH

For more information or to joinVanderhoof’s Faith Church Directory

Call Pam at 250-567-9258

Church Directory

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship

The Church on the Corner“Giving you a Purpose to live for

and People to live with”Worship Service: 11:00 amSunday School: 9:45 am

Small Groups meeting together regularly:

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

567-9198 263 Vanderview Drive

The Gospel Chapel

448 Connaught Street

For more information call567-3107

www.thegospelchapel.ca

Our MissionGlorifying God by helping all people move closer to

Jesus Christ one step at a time.

11:00 a.m. Worship Service

(Affi liated with the Evangelical Free Church of Canada)

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

1393 Highway 16 East250-567-4960

Join us Sundays @ 9:30 amEveryone Welcome!

Visit our website:nechakocommunitychurch.com

Nechako Christian Fellowship

WELCOMES YOU!11:00 am Worship Service

767 Loop RoadEmail: [email protected]

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

Christ - CenteredBible - Based

Missions - MindedNon-Denominational

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 this guy is the one for you, come on down today!

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250-567-4646

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250-562-5511

s guy is the one for you comeRegular 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, 2016School Board Offi ce, Vanderhoof, BC

May 16, 2016School Board Offi ce, Vanderhoof, BC

These meetings will commence at 6:00 p.m. Members of the public are invited to attend.

NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD

MEETINGS

Darlene Turner Secretary-Treasurer

Integris Community Theatre at NVSS

April 21-23 & April 28-30, 20167 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)

Tickets: $10 Adults $8 Students/Seniors ($2 extra at the door)Tickets available at

Vanderhoof Dept. Store, Wallace Studios & NVSS

Anneof Green Gables

The Musical


A disagreement between the District of Vanderhoof and a former staff member will be heard by the B.C. Human Rights Tribu-nal this June.

In her wrongful dismissal suit fi led March 25 this year and her complaint fi led to the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal, the dis-trict’s former economic development offi cer 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 sched-ule 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 ar-gues 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 strategy was planned or implemented.”

The district also “did not fi le any evidence or affi davits from the District’s [former] CAO denying his conversations with Ms. Siemens,” the tribunal states in its decision.

During her termination meeting, the district’s former CAO Evan Parliament allegedly alluded to Siemens that the reason lies in

her friendship with mayoral candidate Jessi Wilson, who ran unsuccessfully against in-cumbent mayor Gerry Thiessen in the 2014 civil election.

As the civil case remains before court, Siemens is claiming general and punitive damages for her alleged wrongful dismissal, interest, costs, and other relief as court deems just.

Court dates set for District vs. former staff dispute

MENTAL HEALTH, continued from front page

“Just saving fi res”: youth support

VIVIAN CHUI photo

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

www.ominecaexpress.com A3Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

NEWSExpressINSIDE

NEWSthe

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ENTERTODAY!

The Vanderhoof RCMP detach-ment lodged 69 fi les in the past week.

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 Black-water 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 pos-session 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 pos-session of break-and-enter tools.

DOMESTIC DISPUTEOn 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 man drove away.

The RCMP arrived at the residence as the man returned, arrest-ing the individual for charges on assault, dangerous operation of a vehicle, and failure to remain at the scene of an accident.

He was also charged for refusal of impaired driving test, as he denied alcohol tests on scene and in custody.

Appearing in court on Apr. 12, he was released on conditions that included no contact with his wife, as well as avoiding Vander-hoof and Saik’uz First Nation except for work requirements.

The woman, remain-ing in hospital for foot injuries, is in stable condition.

CO-OP BREAK-AND-ENTER

An overnight break-in 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 specifi c items for greenhouse building.

The stolen items are estimated to be valued at $1,000.

Investigation continues, and those with information are advised to contact the police at the detachment or anonymously through CrimeStop-pers.

CRIME REDUCTION PRO-GRAM CONTINUES

Initiated on Nov. 13 by the local RCMP detachment to focus on its priority offenders, the crime reduc-tion program, which includes curfew checks, continues with success, Sgt. Svend Nielsen said.

Charges associated with breach-ing 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.

- with fi les from Sgt. Svend Nielsen, Vanderhoof RCMP

Police UpdateWildfi re fi ghting training

VIVIAN CHUI photo

On Apr. 14, Vanderhoof’s fi re department performed wildland fi refi ght-ing training on dry grass along Northside Road. The team responded to 10 minor calls in March, fi re Chief Ian Leslie said.

It’s that time of the year again, for Vanderhoof’s green thumbs to shine.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

The Vanderhoof Community Gar-den, free for all to sign up and use, opened its greenhouse in April.

Calendar for 2016Feb: sign up for your plot(s)Apr: Greenhouse is openMay: Outside plots ready for

plantingMay-Aug: Garden work beesSep: Harvest CelebrationOct: 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 se-curely fenced with a fl ush 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 through-out the year, the community garden is an opportunity for learning, men-torship, and volunteerism.

More information can be found through [email protected] and www.nvfoodnetwork.org.

LOCAL PRODUCER DIRECTORY

The May 1 deadline is approach-ing for local producers to be includ-ed, 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 [email protected] or 250-570-219.

The free directory will be ready for distribution by May 13 when the Vanderhoof Trade Show kicks off.

Applications for BC Arts Council scholar-ships 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 pro-grams in combination with their high school studies.

The application deadline is Apr. 30, with scholarships providing up to $6,000 each in fi nancial as-sistance.

Eligible disciplines include arts administra-tion, community-based arts practice, museol-ogy, conservation, dance, media arts, the-atre, 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

Local growers alert: greenhouse opens,

get listed for free

Fine artsscholarship

Dementia caregiver workshop

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 1-866-564-7533 or [email protected] is re-quired for the day-long workshop, offered by donation.

In Vanderhoof Pub-lic 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 move-ment, stories and games

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

May 5 to 26

May toddler fun in library

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca ExpressA4 www.ominecaexpress.coms.com

NEWSExpressPICTURE 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 includeschool activities. Basically people making a difference in our community. Send us your photoby e-mail ([email protected]) 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....

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

[email protected]

***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 [email protected]

***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 profi t 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 [email protected]

***THE FOOD BANK... is in serious need of food donations. Specifi cally 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 [email protected]

***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 offi cers 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 HOURSTuesday 10:00am to 5:00pm

Wednesday 10:00am to 5:00pm & 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Thursday 10:00am to 5:00pmFriday 10:00 am to 6:00pm

Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm***

FRASER LAKE LIBRARY HOURS

Sunday & Monday ClosedTuesday 10am - 4pm

Wednesday & Thursday12pm - 8pm

Friday 10am - 4pmSaturday 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!

COMING EVENTS....Will appear, as space is available, free of charge in this section. Coming events are available to non-profi t organizations only. This area is not intended for thank you submissions or selling products. It is simply a place for non-profi t organizations a place to announce upcoming free activities. You can e-mail your item to [email protected] or by fax (567-2070). Your organizations’ announcement can also be dropped off at our offi ce located at 155 W. Columbia. Decision of the publisher is fi nal.

***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, 250-564-7533, [email protected]

***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 diffi cult 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 [email protected] 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.

Pathfi nders meets 6-7:30pm Mondays @ Lutheran Church.

For info on any of these please call Laura Freeman 250-567-6997.

***VANDERHOOF PAIN SELF-MANAGEMENT GROUP...Do you struggle with persistent pain? Do you feel like your pain is holding your life hostage? Find it diffi cult to talk about your pain? Join us for an evening of education and understanding at the Vanderhoof Peer-Led Pain Self-Management 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

Nechako NotesNechako Notes

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.


A challenge in promoting local agriculture may lie in the nature of the sec-tor, a regional advocate say.

On March 23, economic development project Beyond the Market cel-ebrates its fi fth 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 in-volves many very small businesses with owners tied to their land. Representa-tion of the industry is thus diffi cult 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 identifi ed 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 ses-sions, 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, Bulkley-Nechako, 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 diversifi ed nature, can serve as the region’s diversifi cation 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 in-dustry, 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 identifi ed priorities so far include inject-

ing 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.

Demand up for local agriculture support

Michelle Roberge shows off her bees at the Bioscape Farm in Vander-hoof last spring.

REBECCA WATSON

photo


NEWSExpress

Chartered Professional Accountant

204-688 Brunswick Street,Prince George, BC V2L 2C1

Phone 250-562-8477Fax: 250-562-8489

email: [email protected]

TAX TIPS& Traps

For more info see our website: www.mcphailcga.com

Who claims theCPP Death benefi ton their tax return?The Canada Pension Plan or Quebec Pension Plan death benefi t is a one-time, lump-sum payment made to the estate upon the death of a contributor.

Death benefi ts are shown in box 18 of a T4A(P) slip.

If you received this amount and you are a benefi ciary 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 benefi ciary of the estate you can have your tax preparer calculate the tax implication of the benefi t so that the estate can reimburse you.

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MayorGerry Thiessen

CouncillorDarren Carpenter

CouncillorBrian Frenkel

CouncillorJohn Murphy

CouncillorKen Young

CouncillorKevin Moutray

CouncillorSteve Little

AQUATIC CENTRE DESIGN UPDATEMeeting for the fi rst 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 defi ned? - 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 add-

ing the second fl oor in the future? - Does the initial pricing support the possibility of add-

ing 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 UPDATEThe 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 fi nish-date in September.

WATER TANK REPLACEMENT DISCUSSIONReplacement of Vanderhoof’s over-sixty-year-old reser-

voir, 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 borrow-ing 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 fi ve years from now.

NEW DISTRICT FOREMANChad Westbrook, the District of Vanderhoof’s new pub-

lic works foreman, started work on Mar. 31.Originally from Colorado, Westbrook moved to Vander-

hoof 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

superintendent. In Vanderhoof, he worked in industrial construction for

the mining and logging industries, as well as safety consult-ing.

BEDNESTI LOG CABIN UPDATEDiscussion 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 Com-munity Museum by the end of this year or in early 2017.

Potential funding sources include the B.C. Rural divi-dend 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 cul-tural centre.

Next discussion will take place at the log building on Apr. 20.

- with fi les from the District of Vanderhoof

Council: pool, rec centre, water tank updates

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Re-source Operations and the Society for Ecosystem Restoration in North Central B.C. will be conduct-ing a series of ecosystem restoration burns near Vanderhoof between April 4 and April 25, 2016, weather and site conditions permitting.

Trained BC Wildfi re Service personnel will carefully monitor these fi res 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-

tres northwest of Vanderhoof: These prescribed burns will be conducted in three different locations along the Barlow Forest Service road, south of the Clearview Landfi ll site and west of Highway 27.

Burn projects such as these help create landscape-level fuel breaks, reduce accumula-tions of forest fuels, mitigate the severity of future wildfi res, and decrease wildfi re risks for nearby communities.

Fire is a natural, normal process in many eco-systems and is benefi cial for maintaining a healthy forest and a diversity of plant and animal life.

Restoration burns in April

CMYK

Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca ExpressA8 www.ominecaexpress.com www.ominecaexpress.com A9Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016

ABOUT NEEFAs 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

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.

NEEF PROJECTS IN THE NECHAKO VALLEYTo 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 University of Northern BC houses the Integrated Watershed Research Group (IWRG) comprising: Stephen

Déry (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

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 Environmental and Water Stewardship Society (NEWSS) has been

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

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 1960’s there has been a noticeable decline in young Nechako white sturgeon. Currently there are

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

immediately to help preserve genetic diversity and rebuild the population.

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.

NECHAKO ENVIRONMENT & WATER STEWARDSHIP SOCIETY

OBJECTIVES AND

FUNDING OPTIONS 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

1

rivers. This includes changes related to Skins Lake

through other enhancement initiatives;

2

the Cheslatta and Nechako rivers;

3 Promotion, education and stewardship of water in

the Nechako and Cheslatta watersheds; and

4

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

scientists and subject matter experts. In the end a total

of six potential options for downstream enhancement

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.

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

[email protected]

www.neef.ca

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NEEFSociety

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

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

NEEF.CA • FACEBOOK.COM/NEEFSOCIETY

$50,000,000

to enhance the environment of the Nechako River watershed.

EEFNechako Environmental Enhancement Fund


NEWSExpress

Submitted by Anna Pye,Nechako Valley Secondary

NVSS students and staff travelled to Delhi, India on a volun-teer 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 chil-dren 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 traffi c was felt as they ventured on rickshaw rides through Old Delhi. Henna tattoos, Yoga, Safari adven-tures, 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 eve-nings with puppet shows, fi re dancing and of course snake charm-ers. 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 wit-nessed 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

Volunteer school trip to India:

a life-changing experience with colour, contrasts


COMMUNITYExpress

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DUTY

Submitted by Anna Pye,

Nechako Valley Secondary

NVSS leadership students in collabora-tion with Evelyn Dick-son 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 fami-lies in rural communi-ties 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 fi rst water walk.

We helped the mamas of a small vil-lage 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 remem-brance 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!

Bringing goats, water

to rural India


NEWSExpress

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Magdalena Saito Holistic Health Practitioner

250-524-0333 -- www.HalcyonHolistic.comYoung Living Essential Oils Distributor & Re exologist

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 landfi ll 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

Some notes on plastic!

OPEN: Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm16856 McDowell Rd. Ph: 250-699-6558, Fax: 250-699-6590.

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150 West Columbia, Vanderhoof

Andrew Bailey and Vivian ChuiBlack Press

Lucas Nielsen traveled to Tofi no 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 Tofi no 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 miss-ing and that was meeting his rescuers and seeing where he was actually found,” Claire said. “It’s re-ally important I think for us to wrap the full circle of the story and see where it fi rst began.”

The Nielsen’s Tofi tian experience was orga-nized by Tourism Tofi no 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 Tofi no’s landscape provided the perfect backdrop for the emotional experience.

“This rivals anything I’ve ever seen; it’s abso-lutely 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 follow-ing 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.”

Tofi no Mayor Josie Osborne was thrilled to meet Lucas and learn about his connection with Chester.

“This is something that makes Tofi no 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 water-based 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 every-day.”

Whale’s best friend from the ‘hoof thanks rescue team

Lucas Nielsen, centre, chilled at Chesterman Beach with his mother Claire and the Parks Can-ada and DFO team that courageously rescued his friend Chester the false killer whale in 2014. The trip was organized by Tourism Tofi no who joined Lucas at the beach along with Mayor Josie Osborne. BLACK PRESS FILE photo

Lucas befriended Chester over a series of visits to the Vancouver Aquarium.

SUBMITTED photos

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016 www.ominecaexpress.com A13

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 fi rst 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 fi rst wife Charlotte died of cancer and in 1985 he married Margaret Wreggitt. After retirement they bought and operated a fi shing 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 offi ciating. 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

Wayne Leonard HockettDecember 17th, 1929 – April 5th, 2016

BARG, Ada 1930 – 2016Mrs. 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 hus-band, Philip, she moved to British Columbia where they farmed at Chilliwack and also at Vanderhoof. After fi nally 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 pre-deceased 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 fl owers, Me-morial 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. Ar-rangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040 or 1.800.481.7421.

A&W All West Glass Amy SomersBadger’s Movies &Games Bacchus U-Brew Blue Valley EnterprisesCalifornia Dreamin’ Cathy Drappier- It Works Copper-T RanchDadz Muffl er Daily Perk Daidem Promotional ImprinterDollar Central Doreen Boon Faitron CommunicationsFountain Tires Glen Pearce Gription TiresKB’s Auto Detailing Krystal Vanden Bos Market Hair SalonNapa Auto Parts New Fraser Lake Restaurant Nechako Lumber/L&M Nechako Valley Feeds Nechako Veterinary Clinic Newsat FarmsP&H Supplies Paradise Hill Design Plateau SawmillRGC Consulting Redneck Princess Photography Roshell’s RestaurantSarb Sabberwahl Sew-Rite Designs Shear MadnessShirley Atkinson Shotgun Enterprises Streamline SignsSuper Value-Fraser Lake Vanderhoof Flying Club Ventin Vitamin HouseVillage Inn Wayne Ray West Fraser MillWestline Ford Woodpecker Valley Construction Your Independent Grocery’s

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

The 899 Vanderhoof Air Cadets andParents Sponsoring Committee

would like to thank the community and the following businesses/people

for their support of our spaghetti dinner and silent auction.

Announcements Announcements Announcements Announcements Announcements Announcements

CANADA BENEFIT Group - Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canada-benefi t.ca/free-assessment

HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in walking/dress-ing? Disability tax credit $2,000 tax credit $20,000 re-fund. Apply today for assis-tance: 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 in-creased to 49 m3/s on 12 April. This level of discharge will be maintained until Summer Tem-perature Management Program begins in July.

Visit websitewww.wateroffi ce.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time fl ow information for the Nechako River.

Visit websitehttp://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/da-ta/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 250-567-5105 for more information. A re-cording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250- 567-5812

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Inspire.Perspire.Participate in an event to help the 4 millionCanadians living with arthritis.

A14 www.ominecaexpress.com Wednesday, April 20, 2016 Omineca Express

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.

he successful candidate must possess an nterprovincial Electrical certi cation and ears e perience. andidates ith mining or industrial e perience ill be given preference. nstrumentation, and

programming e perience ould be considered an asset. ood interpersonal and communication s ills are a must. he electrician position or s a schedule da s in, da s out or ing hour da s. ust have o n tools of the trade.

MILLWRIGHTReporting to the ill aintenance Supervisor and or ing closel ith 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 e uipment.

he successful candidate must possess am nterprovincial illwright ndustrial echanic ticket and have at least ears e perience in a mining or industrial environment. reference will be given to applicants with individuals who have welding e perience. ood interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this position. he illwright 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 TECHNICIANe 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. he successful candidate will report to the ine aintenance Supervisor and be responsible for preventative maintenance, repair and servicing of all light dut vehicles in uckleberr ines eet. his includes pickup trucks, service trucks, forklifts and bobcats.

pplicants must possess a ourne person automotive technician uali cation or an nterprovincial utomotive echnician ticket. E perience with ord and o ota light trucks would be an asset. he

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.

uali ed candidates can submit their resumes in con dence to

Human Resources DepartmentHuckleberry Mines Ltd.

P.O. Box 3000Houston, BC

V0J 1Z0

Email: [email protected]

Imagine a job that fits your life.

PLEASE APPLY TO: Riverbed Ent. Ltd., DBA Tim HortonsIN PERSON AT: 180 First St. East Vanderhoof, BCBY FAX: 250.567.9180 BY EMAIL: [email protected]

Starting Pay $10.45- $11.00 per hr

Requires some high school education & 1-2 yrs experienceStarting Pay $12.75 per hr

Scholarship Opportunities • Free Uniforms

RESTAURANT TEAM MEMBERS

& TEAM SUPERVISORS (NOC:6212)

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

RESTAURANT TEAM MEMBERSStarting Pay $10.45 - $11.00 per hr

& TEAM SUPERVISORS (NOC:6212)

Requires some high school education & 1-2 yrs experienceStarting Pay $12.75 per hr.

• Profit share program - pays out quarterly• Flexible Hours • Health Benefits

• Scholarship Opportunities • Free Uniforms

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOFJob Posting

Arena/Parks Lead HandThe 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: [email protected]

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.

Employment

NEW EXCITING mini VLT’s. Produce buckets of cash monthly. Attracts customers like money magnets. Loca-tions provided. Ground fl oor opportunity. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website www.tcvend.com

Employment

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: Care-erStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Education/Trade Schools

START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Infor-mation Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

Employment

RETIREMENT homes in Ke-lowna & Kamloops seeking Housekeeping/Dietary aids & Cooks. Resume to [email protected] or call 604-777-9292 for more info

Medical/DentalHEALTHCARE DOCUMEN-TATION 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, [email protected]

Services

EMERGENCY DEVICE for seniors - Free equipment, monitored 24/7. Stay safe in your home for less than $1.00 a day. For free information guide, call toll-free 1-888-865-5001 or www.LifeAssure.com

Financial Services

$750 Loans & MoreNO CREDIT CHECKS

Open 7 days/wk. 8am - 8pm 1-855-527-4368

Apply at:www.credit700.ca

Career Opportunities





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

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

Call Anytime1-800-639-2274 or

604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

Help Wanted Help Wanted

Pets & Livestock

HAY FOR SALE: Alfalfa,grass/mix, STRAW availablein 3x4 square bales. Dairy orcow quality. Call for delivered price. Semi-load delivery only. Visit www.hubkahay.com or Phone 403-635-0104

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 calv-ing ease. Complete disper-sal of all machinery June 25, 2016 at the ranch. Contact: Audrey Read, (250) 699-6990, Diamond X Ranch Ltd. Endako, B.C. V0J 1L0

Merchandise for Sale

Business Opportunities


Hotel, Restaurant, Food Services

Health Products Financial Services Feed & Hay Auctions

FARMAUCTION

Roy & Diane Kells

SaturdayMay 28, 2016For photos and

complete listings, go to

allwestauctions.comFor more info call Henry at

250-567-4842

BIG

Results

Small Ads Get

If you see a wildfi re, report it to

1-800-663-5555 or *5555

on most cellular networks.

This Could Be You

Find a New Career in the Classifieds

www.habitat.ca

More than 1.5 million Canadian

families are in need of affordable

housing. Your contributions

provides Habitat with the resources

it needs to help families.

DonateToday!

Adopt a Shelter Cat!The BC SPCA cares for thousands oforphaned and abandoned cats each year.If you can give a homeless cat a secondchance at happiness, please visit yourlocal shelter today.

www.spca.bc.ca



www.habitat.ca

More than 1.5 million Canadian

families are in need of affordable

housing. Your contributions

provides Habitat with the resources

it needs to help families.

DonateToday!

Interested in the Sheet Metal Trade?Shaper Sheet Metal Ltd. is accepting resumes to join our team.

Apply in person: 342 Stewart St. W., Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0

or Call: 250-567-2078

Shaper SheetMetal Ltd.

Omineca Express Wednesday, April 20, 2016 www.ominecaexpress.com A15

150 Mile House | 250 296 4411DL#6146

Quesnel | 250 747 4451 DL#6147

ExclusiveDealer for the North

www.chemorv.ca

RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF RVDA’S

TOP 50 DEALERS IN NORTH AMERICA

Turn your unwanted items into

“GOLD”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

2x4 ad $30.00/week

Denise:250-567-9258

150 West ColumbiaVanderhoof

VANDERHOOF AND AREABUSINESS DIRECTORY

EXCAVATING

ADVERTISINGADVERTISING

EXCAVATING

ADVERTISING

EXCAVATINGPRAIRIEDALE EXCAVATING

Tandem dump truck, 4x4 Backhoe, gravel sales, general hauling, foundations,

water & sewer lines and snow removal.

All jobs BIG or small, give us a call!FRANK TEICHROEB

3393 Sinkutview Rd, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A2

567-2029

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

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

Pam BergerPublisher

150 W. Columbia StBox 1007, VanderhoofBC V0J 3A0

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


vertiserReaching Every DoorADSTUART

NECHAKO

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

Pam BergerPublisher

150 W. Columbia StBox 1007, VanderhoofBC V0J 3A0

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


Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972

Pam BergerPublisher

250-996-8482Advertising: [email protected]: [email protected]

Website: www.caledoniacourier.com

C I E0697864 BC Ltd.

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

Telephone: 250-567-3855Fax: 250-567-9695

Email: [email protected], Backhoes, Crawler Tractors, End Dump

MAKE YOUR POINT-

OF-SALE

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


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 250-567-4018.

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


POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and in-stallation. Call John at 403-998-7907; [email protected].


REFORESTATION NUR-SERY seedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free shipping. Re-placement guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca

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: www.NorwoodSaw-mills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

Garage Sales Garage Sales Garage Sales

Real Estate

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

Rentals

ABOVE THE REST!

SilvermillApartments

Secure quiet apartments

VACANCY

250-567-4208

Misc Services Misc Services

Rentals

VictoriaManor

* Balconies* Landscaped View

* Cablevision Available

250-567-4048or 250-567-9080

Large2 Bdrmfrom

Large1 Bdrmfrom $712 - $742

$742 - $772

NO SMOKING - NO PETS

Recreational/SaleRecreational/Sale

Rentals

Misc. for Sale Misc. for Sale Misc. for Sale For Sale By Owner Apt/Condo for Rent Apt/Condo for Rent Townhouses3/bdrm townhouses: family-friendly complex, near schools & park. No smoking, no pets. $760/mth. 250-567-4430

TRY A CLASSIFIED

SHOP LOCALLY

If you see a wildfi re, report it to

1-800-663-5555 or *5555

on most cellular networks.

www.pitch-in.ca

Become a GREEN

SHOPPER!

in theclassifieds!

Find Your Dream Home

It Startswith You!

www.pitch-in.ca

Find TheCar Of YourDreams In the Classifieds


COMMUNITYExpress

College of New Caledonia Aboriginal Cultural Week

VIvian ChuiOmineca 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 Aborgin-al Service Plan aims to encourage aborginal participation, provide a more inclusive and welcoming en-vironment for all, and bring people together with food, said aboriginal liaison advisor Sarah John.

After an event kick-off on Mon-day, participants learned to make dream catchers on Tuesday, got a taste of traditional fi shing with dem-onstration on Wednesday, listened

to stories and drank wild Labrador tea with Saik’uz First Nation elders on Thursday, and learned about tra-ditional 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 pro-gram, on Friday. More details and photos to come in the next Omineca Express Edition.

vanderhoof omineca express, april 20, 2016

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