Vanderhoof Omineca Express, January 01, 2014

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$1.30 Inc. GST Vol. 36 No. 44

Serving Vanderhoof ● Fort Fraser ● Fraser Lake & Area www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Innergex and Saik’uz agreement Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. and the Saik’uz First Nation are pleased to announce the joint signing of a Letter of Intent and a Traditional Knowledge Protocol Agreement regarding the development of a wind energy project at Nulki Hills near Vanderhoof, British Columbia.

The Nulki Hills prospective wind project, representing up to 210 MW of clean renewable power, is currently undergoing a BC Environmental Assessment. The partners will work together to obtain an Environmental Assessment Certificate from the province and an electricity purchase agreement from BC Hydro for this project, which could deliver power to the grid by late 2018.

In the agreements, Saik’uz and Innergex highlight their commitment to meaningful consultation during all stages of project development and to establish and determine the terms for a long-term cooperative and mutually respectful relationship throughout the life cycle of the project. The parties have agreed to a process to gather, document and preserve Saik’uz traditional knowledge and to address the ownership, protection and integration of traditional knowledge in the development of the project.

“We are extremely pleased to have entered into these agreements with the Saik’uz First Nation,” said Richard Blanchet, Senior Vice President - Western Region of Inn-

ergex. “They provide a foundation for a strong relationship that reflects the commitment between Innergex and Saik’uz to work together, respectfully and collaboratively. The announcement today emphasizes our intention to bring sustainable economic development opportunities to Saik’uz and the District of Vanderhoof.”

“We look forward to continuing our positive relationship with Innergex,” said Stanley Thomas Saik’uz First Nations Chief. “We trust that Innergex will work within our traditional territory in a manner respectful of the environment, our culture and our constitutional aboriginal rights, titles and interest.”

Enbridge pipeline will hit wall in B.C., critics say Jeff Nagel Black Press Environmental groups and First Nations quickly condemned the National Energy Board’s recommendation to approve the Northern Gateway oil pipeline project and predicted it will never be built.

Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs president Grand Chief Stewart Philip said the battle will likely move into the courtrooms as First Nations mount legal challenges to Enbridge’s project – assuming it is approved in the months ahead by the federal government.

“This is about the environmental integrity of the watersheds we all share and we are willing to go to any lengths to defend our watersheds,” he said. “We are prepared to go to the wall against this project. We have no choice.”

Wilderness Committee policy director Gwen Barlee called it a reckless, foolish, disappointing decision

Churches in Vanderhoof came together to present a nativity scene in the park on Saturday, December 21. Similar to the annual Pumpkin Walk this was a Christmas walk where reveler could tour the campground and watch Christmas scenes play out.

Continued on page 9

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Omineca Express

Year End Revue - July 2013 RCMP short-staffed in Vanderhoof

Sam Redding Omineca Express The RCMP has been struggling to meet their caseload here in Vanderhoof but no more recruits will come in until an audit is completed by the Superintendent.

“We are continuing to ask Chief Superintendant Rod Booth of the E Division of the RCMP to do an audit of our staffing situation here,” said Gerry Thiessen, Vanderhoof mayor.

“We believe that we have been short-staffed for a very long period of time.”

The Vanderhoof detachment received an additional person last year on a semi-permanent basis pending the audit but that still doesn’t solve the problem.

For 2011-2012 the RCMP released a report detailing a reduction in 1,791 employees in two years and $280 million to be cut and Vanderhoof may pay a price for that.

The detachment is responsible for 90 kilometers of highway 16 and a large area of wilderness.

The RCMP imprisons approximately 75 prisoners in a month, a large number considering the small community.

“When you look at the size of the community and the case load which we have in Vanderhoof and then when you look at neighboring communities and their size and their staffing, we’re in a much differ-

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ent situation,” said Thiessen. “The only way that we’ll be able to affect crime in a timely manner is if we have adequate staffing levels.”

The Vanderhoof detachment has 11 officers in total. One commander, two supervisors and eight constables and one of those constables is dedicated to working on Saik’uz cases. So Vanderhoof has seven officers working in the community and they are often on call.

Vanderhoof is a very anti-crime community according to Sgt. Jason Keays commander of the Vanderhoof RCMP detachment. Residents speak up when they see something wrong and try to keep the police informed on everything. This helps bond the RCMP to the community.

“My eight officers are responsible to provide police services, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for a large geographical area including Saik’uz First Nations. They work a heavy caseload compared to other areas of the province, they are required to at-

tend court and they need to update their training.

We also have to consider any injuries and maternity or paternity leave” said Sgt. Jason Keays, Vanderhoof RCMP. These and many other duties keep the detachment very busy. “What helps is that the vast majority of people in Vanderhoof support the police by reporting crimes and providing information on criminal activity.”

The RCMP, much like the healthcare industry and many others, is always told to “do more with less” and while officers are ready and willing this can cause burnout, injuries both mental and physical and lower priority cases are less worked.

If someones house is broken into and their chainsaw is stolen the RCMP can’t be there right away, in the lower mainland they wouldn’t show up for at least three days. They’d tell the owner to try and not touch anything, but of course that often doesn’t work. This is because the RCMP is focusing on their prolific offender program.

By focusing on prolific offenders the RCMP forces them to either seek treatment, leave town or go to jail. The offenders realize that if they keep doing what they’re doing they have to choose one of these options and since the prolific offender program is expanding across the province these individuals are being targeted so much that they have to consider their other options.

The reason why Vanderhoof is understaffed and neighbouring communities are not is because it was off the radar for mayor and council until about five years ago. And if the situation isn’t fixed soon then it could get much more difficult for RCMP. “I forecast that the town is going to get busier what with New Gold’s Blackwater project starting up in the next few years and other industrial developments that will start to really boost the economy in Vanderhoof,” said Sgt. Keays. Keays said that if he had to put a number on it, four more RCMP officers might be enough to police Vanderhoof properly.

Neale Bacon and critters captivate at library

Bacon and Clarice entertained over 50 parents and kids at the library.

Bacon and his puppet named Clarice.

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Ventriloquist and all-age friendly comedian Neale Bacon was at the Vanderhoof library Wednesday, July 10 and he brought a few of his friends.

There was a puppet named Cla-

rice, a chicken who managed to lay three eggs for the audience of more than 50 kids. This summer, as part of the summer reading club, the library’s theme is Up, Up and Away, so a chicken who needed to learn

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“Now sometimes people don’t know how to describe my show,” Bacon said to his audience. “Are you a magician? No I’m not. Are you a puppeteer? No.” Well Bacon first started out as a magician at age 13 and brought ventriloquism into his repertoire because so few people were doing it.

Bacon has been entertaining families for over 35 years and has performed on YTV on the children’s show Zoink’d.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 91 (NECHAKO LAKES) EARLY PRE-REGISTRATION FOR KINDERGARTEN AT SINKUTVIEW ELEMENTARY ONLY Pre-registration for children who will be entering Kindergarten and who plan to attend Sinkutview Elementary in September 2014 will take place from now until Jan 13th.

LOCATION

PRE-REGISTRATION TIME

Registration will take place at Prairiedale Elementary

8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS 1. Kindergarten students must be five (5) years old by December 31, 2014.

2. An adult must accompany each child.

3. Please bring the child(s) care card and birth certificate. We encourage that immunizations be up-to date prior to starting school. Inquiries regarding immunization can be made by contacting the Health Unit at 250-567-6900.

TO ASSIST US IN PLANNING FOR THIS COMING SEPTEMBER, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT IF YOU PLAN TO SEND YOUR CHILD TO SINKUTVIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FOR THE 2014 YEAR THAT YOU REGISTER DURING THE ABOVE NOTED DATES. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS CONCERNING REGISTRATION PLEASE CONTACT THE SCHOOL OR ADMINISTRATION OFFICE AT 250-567-2284.

Omineca Express Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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Year End Revue - August 2013

Search and rescue overhaul discussed Sam Redding Omineca Express

Cynthia Munger poses with friends and family at the Fraser Lake community garden which brings lots of healthy food to the community and teaches kids valuable skills.

Fraser Lake community garden Sam Redding Omineca Express The Stellat’en First Nations of Fraser Lake have continued to build and improve on their community garden that is running for the third year now.

The garden is much larger than Vanderhoof’s and is arranged such that it provides a higher yield than Vanderhoof’s might due to their ability to rotate the crops and decide what plants grow where.

But that is because healthy food is much needed in a community where the risk of diabetes is high. Because unhealthy is cheaper and easier to make, many low income communities face the risk of developing some form of diabetes.

Cynthia Munger, the Community Health Representative for the Stellat’en First Nations, has worked to organize the community garden and with the help of some local organic growers, she is bringing healthy eating to the community.

“I’m trying to get our communities back to their traditional ways,” said Munger.

“It’s too much commercial food, too much junk and it’s my aim to make it so we don’t have to go to the store to get food.”

Janet Romain is the chief gardener for the community garden, she is the one working hard almost every morning to nurture and gather the fruits and vegetables.

Romain gets teased a lot over her name but lettuce isn’t the only thing she’s bringing to fruition in Fraser Lake.

Romain works to keep the garden pesticide free, maintaining organic food standards as much as possible.

All the food is meant to be grown in adherence to traditional Aboriginal ways.

“I’d rather have a

salad from a garden, knowing there’s no pesticides and that it’s grown natural, than buy something from the store,” said Romain. “What I want to say about it is how effortless it is, because I only spend four hours at the most two days a week. It’s a community effort and the community reaps the benefits.”

Munger is in charge of organizing the garden and organizing the collection and delivery of the produce.

Munger always makes sure to go around and drop off care packages to feed the elders in the community. She also makes sure that anyone with children or anybody with a physical or mental disability gets some extra food every week.

The deliveries work on a rotation basis and if a family got some produce one week then

they might not get any the next, and so on.

Munger has worked as a care aid, a community health rep and is dedicated to eradicating diabetes in her community. She said she gets her inspiration from her family who suffered from the disease.

The community garden is also an opportunity for Munger and Romain to teach the next generation of community members healthy living skills and knowledge.

There are classes every week at the health centre where mothers can learn how to make baby food and kids can learn how to grow their own food.

Vanderhoof Businesses

Salute our Seniors!

Seniors Day 1st Wednesday of every month

Registration space available for Registration space available for Sunshine Discoveries Sunshine Discoveries Preschool Preschool

Registration space available for

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NEW SENIORS DAY DISCOUNTS at the Vanderhoof Co-op Gas Bar

Seniors Day is the 1st Wednesday of each month. Listed below are the Seniors Day Discounts starting August 3rd.

10% Off - Food Store, Hardware and Lumber Departments

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Sunshine Discoveries Preschool offers half-day tuition-based preschool

classes for three to five -year-olds Sunshine Discoveries Preschool Sunshine Discoveries Preschool offers half-day tuition-based classes Our play-based programs encourage thepreschool development of each child’s unique potential Registration space available for Valley Community for three ve -year-olds For more information or for a to visitfiof the facilities please contact Nechako Sunshine Discoveries Preschool offers half-day tuition-based preschool VANDERHOOF Sunshine Discoveries Preschool Services atto 250.567.9205 Our play-based programs encourage the classes Society for three five -year-olds LIBRARY HOURS Tuesday 10:00am to development of each child’s unique potential OurSunshine play-based programs encourage development of each child’s unique potential Discoveries Preschool offersthe half-day tuition-based preschool 5:00pm For more or for a visit of the classesinformation for three to five -year-olds For more information or for a visit of the facilities please contact Nechako Valley Community Wednesday 10:00am to the development each child’s unique potential facilities please contact Services of Society at 250.567.9205 5:00pm & 6:30pm toOur play-based programs encourage For more information or for a visit of the facilities please contact Nechako Valley Community Sunshine Discoveries Preschool 8:30pm NechakoServices Valley Community Services Society Society at 250.567.9205 Thursday 10:00am to at 250.567.9205

5:00pm Friday 10:00 am to 6:00pm Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm

The British Columbia Search and Rescue Association has had a record year in call-outs for at least the last two years and is in need of evaluation according to recent press releases.

Chris Mushumanski, the Nechako Valley Search and Rescue team leader told Omineca Express that the number of tasks they were called out to last year was around 14 and already they have surpassed that number with barely half of this year gone.

According to Mushumanski, the local team averages between eight and 12 call-outs a year but this year they have been called out approximately 17 times. This is a situation which begs the question, can B.C., one of the best search and rescue operations in the world, sustain this model of operations?

“In terms of sustainability we are concerned in two areas, one is the funding sources that we get to purchase our equipment necessary to do a safe search and rescue as well as the training needed for that,” said Mushumanski. “There’s literally hundreds if not thousands of hours trying to get the funds together then you have to purchase the equipment and find the training.”

The second concern is paying the volunteers. Search and rescue operations are run completely by volunteers.

“To ask volunteers first of all, to go out and search or rescue somebody is one thing but then to ask them to go about trying to fund the equipment and training they need to do that seems a little excessive and has increased hugely in the last few years compared to the expectations back when I joined search and rescue in the 90s,” said Mushumanski. “When you look at how much time and effort

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is being put into making those teams able to be funded and trained, it’s expecting too much from volunteers and that is first and foremost what search and rescue is for the province, they’re all volunteers.”

A news release stated that there have been evaluations of the SAR teams’ needs in 1996 and 2004 which resulted in changes to the service.

They also conducted a two year consultation process titled “Leveling the Playing Field” where search and rescue groups met to “discuss issues and identify solutions” according to press release from the BCSARA. Asking volunteers here to possibly take time off from work and donate their wages to do a training course that could take up to three days as well as be available should someone need rescuing is a huge operation for which an employer may not compensate the rescue worker.

But the reason behind the increase in call-outs can’t be pinned down to any one source.

“In Vanderhoof our bread and butter used to be from May long weekend (date) to the end of hunting season in November and inside that it was mainly recreational people and a lot of activity in the fall with hunting,” said Mushumanski. “Now you’re seeing all sorts of different kinds of people in the forest, mushroom pickers, berry pickers, industries other than forestry like mining.

There’s more people out doing different things.”

The Nechako Valley Search and Rescue covers the entire Vanderhoof Forest district and a few kilometres west towards Fraser Lake. They have a little under 50 members who can be called out to anywhere in the province, as needed, and they are always looking for more. They had members helping in Bella Coola, Terrace and Chetwynd recently.

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Omineca Express

Year End Revue - September 2013

Sam Redding Omineca Express Around last January or March, Patti Chesley felt compelled to get into making dresses for the poor.

“God just placed upon my heart one Sunday, I heard somebody talking about making dresses and I was blessed with material and had a good response to the dresses,” said Chesley.

Her friend Diane DeWaal had put her name on Facebook so that people could drop off the material with her. Chesley also wanted to put her address out there so that people could come and donate any bits of material to make more dresses.

Chesley and DeWaal do not want any bed sheets, they will only accept material donations.

Chesley doesn’t discriminate with who needs which dress, she just sends them to whoever needs them.

“Some people want them to go to one place and some people want them at another,” said Chesley.

“I didn’t want anyone’s feelings hurt so we sent them down to a conference in Abbotsford and they can decide where the dresses should go.”

Her pastor takes the dresses down to Abbotsford whenever he finds the time to go, which is quite often according to Chesley.

Although Patti has never seen any of the kids wearing her dresses she hopes to one day.

“I call [the dresses] my babies and people say ‘Patti you’re going to have to let go of your babies,’” said Chesley. “And so it was really hard, because each one is so personal. I practically almost name them!”

“It was so hard because I can see children wearing them. You take a piece of material and you can get something beautiful out of it. It goes to little girls who probably never had a dress. To have a

Sinkut River, outdoor classroom

NVSS Outdoor Pursuits class takes an instructive canoe trip down the Sinkut River. This is instructor Travis Himmelright’s passion, he loves to teach what can be a lifelong sport.

HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVE THERAPY BY MAGDALENA SAITO

Dresses for the poor

brand new dress, we think that would be really special.”

Patti makes dresses for children sized from two to 14 and can finish a dress in one day depending on the pattern.

She usually makes up to three dresses a week but she can make more depending on material and time. She’s made 40 of them so far.

“Nothing is wasted, none of the material is thrown away,” said Patti. She gives the material to two other ladies who make quilts. One lady makes them for the needy and the other lady, Donna Lesley, is making them to try and raise money for Vanderhoof’s future community pool.

You can find DeWaal’s information on facebook but her address for donations is 2933 Burrard Avenue or send any material to

Patti Chesley at 2943 Victoria Street.

Donations will also be taken at Sew Rite Designs in the Co-Op mall and at the Necha-

ko Community Church.

Chesley would like to thank the community for all the donations and hopes to see lots more.

BE A MEMBER - USE YOUR VOTE

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 9 EXECUTIVE & DIRECTOR POSITIONS ARE OPEN

Thursday, January 16, 2014 7:00 pm at the Vanderhoof Community Library - please use the rear door NECHAKO VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE

Call: 250-944-0333 ADULT BADMINTON...every Thursday at 8pm at NVSS gym. Bring your own racquet. Indoor runners required. For more info call Ann at 250-567-9908.

Detox time!

It’s recommended to do a detoxification program 1-3 times a year depending on your lifestyle, even healthy people should detox twice a year, this is because our food, environment and water are not as pure and good as they once were, environmental toxins can collect in your body, pesticides, residues and more; all this residual build up can lead to common symptoms like digestive upsets, lethargy, headaches, and can even affect your nervous systems, and very much affect your health and well being.

Not all detox kits are created equal, the personnel at your local health food store can help you choose the right one for you. Some require big changes in diet temporarily; others require no changes at all. During pregnancy there are many you should avoid, and always try things within your limit.

During a detox you may not feel the best for a few days depending on how much your body has to get rid of. If you’ve never done a detox before, start gently and slow. Most detox kits work on liver, kidney, colon and skin, you can also work on one area at a time with kits from renew life and work for your level.

Other methods of “spring clean up” are eating a strictly clean diet for two or more weeks, try a hot sauna every few days for a few weeks, get some reflexology or massage sessions.

Regardless of which cleansing path you take, be sure to drink plenty of clean, good water to help flush those toxins out. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep you hydrated, and helps your body to better move substances in and out, unless you have healthy issues that prevent you from drinking too many fluids, try to switch your liquid intake to at least 2 L of good, clean water everyday!

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Omineca Express Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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Year End Revue - October 2013 Honorary Fire Chief

Kian Draper

Kings, Queens and Emperors Sam Redding Omineca Express The Northern Orchestra performed in Vanderhoof on Sunday, October 20 with special guest Robert Silverman on piano.

Gordon Lucas, conductor for the Northern Orchestra, explained the significance of the performance which were all royal pieces pertaining to emperors and kings.

Lucas declared that pianist Silverman should be considered royalty and that the small auditorium in NVSS had never seen anything like what he was about to play. Lucas has known Silverman for close to 40 years, ever since Silverman taught at UBC. Silverman, 75, has been playing for most of his life and it shows in his quick but fluid movements during the Emperor Concerto. He strives to produce music that is as close as possible to the source material that he can get it. Which he said is extremely difficult to do.

“It’s one of the greatest of Beethoven’s works,” said Silverman before his performance of the Emperor Concerto. “It’s very heroic and magisterial and I love it. It has everything that Beethoven is known for, his ability to communicate with his audience, to dazzle them, he knows how to compose wonderfully.

I’ll be looking forward to doing it.”

The first half of the performance was all about the Northern Orchestra with pieces by composers

Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frederich Handel. Each piece was a royal waltz or a minuet or something that brought to mind majesty and old royalty.

Arianne Nelles, flutist, could be heard well before Lucas pointed her out and said she was an anchor because her playing of the flute was so perfect. Her notes could be heard clear and above the rest of the orchestra, especially during her solo portions on Bach’s Suite #2 for Orchestra.

Lucas also took care to point out several of his other performers including Jonathan Schultz on violin who will be playing all of the Four Seasons of Vivaldi for their performance in December. A feat Lucas has never had a student do before.

The second half of the show was all about Silverman and his performance on piano with the orchestra.

“I think a musician has a very deep seated need to create music and a performer needs an audience,” said Silverman.

“Especially with classical music in these times. I feel I have a mission to convey its power and excellence and its ability to move you and that’s what I try to do.”

Vanderhoof children kindergarten to grade four entered a draw to become “Fire Chief of the Day” during Fire Prevention Week October 6-12 and Callum Johnny from McLeod Elementary School had his name drawn. Johnny, and his mom, rode around town in the fire truck, visited the fire hall and had lunch all while hanging out with Fire Chief Joe Pacheco.

Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Facility reaches the 50% completion mark The construction of the long awaited Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre in Vanderhoof has reached the 50% completion mark and is on track to begin operations in the spring of 2014.

The conservation centre is one of the key components in a multipronged recovery plan for the Nechako White Sturgeon. The Nechako White Sturgeon Recovery Initiative’s (NWRSI), Technical Working Group (TWG) has prepared a recovery plan for the species that includes not only a sturgeon conservation hatchery but a compre-

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hensive research program that aims to identify and remove survival bottlenecks for wild sturgeon and improve the health of the Nechako watershed for sturgeon and other species.

Community Working Group (CWG) Chair Brian Frenkel said, “We are pleased with the progress of the facility and I’m very excited that this coming spring the Conservation Centre staff will be capturing brood stock (mature male and females) and raising the group of young sturgeon.” While it is an exciting time for the NWSRI Frenkel wants to let the public know that the fight to rehabilitate sturgeon spawning habitat is far from over. “While the Sturgeon Conservation Centre is a key component of the sturgeon recovery plan, it alone will not save the species. It is important that all the research and habitat projects continue with the goal to identify

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issues that can be resolved” The construction and operation of the Conservation Centre is the responsibility of Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, a private, non-profit fisheries services organization. Cory Williamson who is the Facility Manager for Freshwater Fisheries BC stated “I am excited to see this project well on its way, not only will the new facility produce young sturgeon to rebuild the population, it will serve as a centre for white sturgeon research in the north.”

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Express

OPINION

Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Omineca Express

Write The Editor c/o Omineca Express, Box 1007, Vanderhoof, B.C. V0J 3A0 l Fax 250-567-2070 l newsroom@ominecaexpress.com

Zimmer defends Canada Post changes I understand the concern of many people across the region about Canada Post and their decision to phase out door-to-door mail service. It is a service that Canadians in many cities have enjoyed and are accustomed to receiving. But in the world of instant and electronic communication, there is simply not enough postage being paid to sustain the current model.

Business needs to adapt in order to stay competitive when technology changes the landscape. The carriage building industry needed to adapt when horses were replaced by the internal combustion engine.

Live theatre had to adapt when movies came onto the scene. The newspaper industry is learning to adapt to online competition, and Canada Post is doing the same.

Canada Post had a $130 million loss in the latest quarter, and projects an operating loss of $1 billion by 2020 if nothing changes. That is an extra billion dollars of your tax dollars which will be spent to make up that shortfall, even though most Canadians do not have their mail delivered right to their doorstep.

I remember going down to the Post Office in Dawson Creek as a child with my grandfather to pick up the mail. That mail tradition still continues in many small communities across Canada, like Pouce Coupe. Two-thirds of urban and suburban households across Canada already pick up their mail from community mailboxes. Updating the way mail is delivered to that remaining one-third is expected to save Canada Post upwards of $500 million over the next five years. Rural residents who have their mail box at the entrance to their property will not be affected by this change.

Simply put, the current mail delivery structure cannot support itself. There has been a 25 per cent drop in mail volume since 2008, and Canada Post is losing hundreds of millions of dollars every year.

Canada Post is a Crown Corporation and operates as an arms-length agency from Government, but they understand something needs to be done to adapt to a changing environment. Our Conservative Government is encouraged to see Canada Post shares our vision for more streamlined public sector services. They are taking an important first step to ensure that reliable postal service remains available and affordable.

The Omineca Express is published every Wednesday in Vanderhoof by Black Press Ltd. Publisher: Pam Berger advertising@ominecaexpress.com Editor: Sam Redding newsroom@ominecaexpress.com

Office: Anne Stevens office@ominecaexpress.com Creative Services: Julia Beal Wendy Haslam advertising@ominecaexpress.com

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The Omineca Express is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a selfregulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council.

Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2.

For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

B.C. toasts liquor changes VANCOUVER - Premier Christy Clark announced the B.C. government’s support today for a second set of key liquor changes that will create opportunities for small businesses and legions and open up new dining options for B.C. families, while continuing to protect public safety.

To create more consumer convenience and give businesses more flexibility to grow, government will be introducing happy hour to B.C. To make sure liquor rules better reflect how British Columbians live, families soon will have the freedom to eat together in B.C.’s pubs, legions and restaurants. To enhance health and public safety, the Province also will improve and expand B.C.’s responsible beverage service program, Serving it Right (SIR).

“These changes are about updating antiquated licensing rules to reflect what British Columbians actually want, while continuing to protect public safety,” said Premier Clark. “Families should be able to dine together in their neighbourhood pub. Consumers should be free to order whatever they want in a restaurant. These are exactly the kind of common-sense changes to B.C.’s liquor laws we promised to make - and we’re keeping that promise.”

Specifically, with the Liquor Policy Review recommendations announced today, government is supporting: * Small businesses and the hospitality industry, through changes like common-sense licensing and happy hours. * Places like pubs, legions and membership clubs by making changes to create more family-friendly environments. * Health, safety and social responsibility by enhancing B.C.’s SIR program.

With minimum drink pricing consistent with the views that Parliamentary Secretary John Yap heard from health advocates during the B.C. Liquor Policy Review, the B.C. government will be opening the door to time-limited drink specials - such as happy hours.

Other changes that will benefit the hospitality industry include simplified, common-sense licensing rules. If patrons do not wish to eat, they will no longer be required to order food when they are in a food-primary establishment.

Also, customers will be permitted to move freely with their beverage from one adjoining licensed area to another.

“At Cactus Club Cafe, we know how important it is to provide an enjoyable and safe environment for all of our guests,” said Richard Jaffray, president and founder of Cactus Restaurants Ltd. “We applaud Premier Christy Clark and the B.C. government for taking positive steps to modernize our province’s liquor laws and regulations.”

The B.C. government will further increase flexibility

around licensing by giving liquor-primary establishments and clubs, such as legions, the option to accommodate minors up until a certain hour in the evening. This means, for example, that parents will be able to take their kids for a bite to eat at a pub or to enjoy some music at a legion that chooses to be family friendly.

“We’re thrilled to hear government is making positive changes in liquor regulations impacting The Royal Canadian Legion and other membership clubs, so we can hold gatherings that safely accommodate minors, like community events, anniversaries and birthday parties,” said Angus Stanfield, president of the Royal Canadian Legion BC/ Yukon Command. “These changes will help us strengthen our charitable giving for veterans, youth, seniors and the communities we serve.”

Balancing these changes with health and safety in mind, the Province will extend SIR to all hospitality industry workers who serve alcohol. This will include, for the first time, all servers in B.C.’s 5,600 licensed restaurants, as well as staff at BC Liquor Stores and rural agency and wine stores. A specialized version of SIR will be required for licensees and personnel who serve at special occasion licensed events, such as banquets or weddings.

“We welcome the opportunity to evaluate, expand and enhance our Serving it Right program so we can build on our comprehensive information and provide well-rounded knowledge about responsible beverage service,” said Arlene Keis, CEO of go2, B.C.’s human resources association for the tourism industry. “Drawing on the success of our current program, these changes will further instil effective skills and techniques for hospitality workers to promote responsible consumption.”

These changes align with recommendations put forward in Yap’s report. Government’s support for these eight recommendations builds on a set of 12 others announced last week by Premier Clark that will benefit tourism, small businesses and liquor manufacturers.

“I heard throughout my consultations - from pubs, restaurants, legions and British Columbians - that licensing rules have become complicated and onerous over the years, and that they need to better match modern expectations,” said Yap. “These changes will address that call and strike a balance, as we increase convenience for families and the industry, ensure continued growth of B.C. businesses and continue to safeguard health and safety.”

It is anticipated that Yap’s report on the review will be publicly released prior to Feb. 15, 2014, once Cabinet has had the opportunity to fully consider its 70-plus recommendations.

Omineca Express Wednesday, January 1, 2014

www.ominecaexpress.com A7

Year End Revue - November 2013

Four arrested for Fribjon Bjornson murder

needed closure to end the nightmare they have been living,” said Cst. Lesley Smith, North District media relaFour suspects have been arrested tions officer in a release today.

The investigation is still ongoing in relation to the murder of Fribjon and RCMP say more arrests are still Bjornson.

Three men and one woman will possible, so no further details will be be facing charges and are in custody released.

Bjornson’s murder has been in Prince George after a lengthy inhanging over the vestigation. community of Fort Tw e n t y - s e v e n St. James/Nak’azdli, year-old Wesley Denwith rumours swirlnis Duncan is facing a ing ever since the murder charge. young man’s severed Teresa Mahead was found in rie Charlie, 21, is a vacant house on charged with being Nak’azdli Reserve an accessory after the (which borders Fort fact to murder.

St. James) on Feb. 3, Jesse Darren Bird, 2012. His body was 31, is charged with never found. accessory after the Bjornson had been fact to murder and inmissing since Jan. terference with a dead 12, 2012, after he Fribjon Bjornson body. was last seen leavJames David Juing a 7-11 in Vandernior Charlie, 23, is charged with inhoof and the house on the reserve terference with a dead body.

“Our Major Crime investigators was searched following the location have been working extremely hard of his abandoned truck in the area. over the past year in order to identify Bjornson lived in Vanderhoof but and charge those responsible for this had been working north of Fort St. horrific crime. They have been work- James and had friends in the coming closely with the Bjornson family munity.

The charges in the case have not and though these arrests cannot bring Fribjon back, it can give some much been proven in court.

Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier

Need for men’s shelter

Sam Redding Omineca Express With the National Day of Rememberance and Action on Violence Against Women coming up, the Omineca Express spoke to Sylvia Byron, who runs the Omineca Safe Home, about the possibility of creating something similar for the men of Vanderhoof.

“I think there’s a need for a men’s shelter everywhere,” said Byron. “Definitely. I think that men’s services don’t get the appropriate response. We have men struggling. There’s a need for men’s services in this community, there’s a need for housing in this community. Violence and addiction is complicated. It’s not just because people want to choose that. It’s because they’ve learned it, they’re struggling and they’re in poverty. They don’t feel there’s any options.

So unless we have an option for people to reach for help, they may choose to reach for addiction.”

Byron wants to look at a prevention strategy that includes advocacy for both men and for women. She is a

feminist, but she believes that things won’t get better unless both sides are taken care of.

“There’s not a lot of options for men,” she said. “And I don’t think that’s fair.”

Another thing Byron would like to see is permanent, longterm housing for single people.

“We have B.C. Housing for people with families,” she said. “But if you have a really big family, there’s not many options and if you are just a single person, there’s basically nothing. And they’re getting less and less available, all the time.”

Byron would like to see something in place that would be almost exactly the same as the shelter available from the Safe Home.

At the Omineca Safe Home, women are provided with advocacy, counselling, childcare, referral, and accompaniment. As well as a safe place to stay away from violence or violent households.

“You can’t force people to do stuff, they need to be able to access it on their own time.

You need a place for men to go, when they feel unsafe or

unsafe in their community. Or if they feel like they’re going to be unsafe to be around.”

Vanderhoof RCMP Detachment Commander Sergeant Jason Keays believes that a men’s shelter is desperately needed in Vanderhoof, especially during the next few months when it will be so cold for anyone forced to live on the streets.

“We have apprehended people before for fear that they would succumb to alcohol and the cold,” said Sgt. Keays. “I would welcome a men’s shelter, at least a cold weather shelter that could be unisex.”

“There absolutely is a need for a men’s shelter,” said Sgt. Keays. “The Omineca Safe Home does a terrific job, what I’d like to see is a place where men can warm up and know they’ll be safe. Let’s start the ball rolling.”

Byron estimates that there are maybe 200 homeless people in Vanderhoof. There are varying degrees of homelessness but about 200 people in Vanderhoof could benefit from some sort of shelter and the services it could provide.

NVSS X-Country Runners Make History

On November 2nd, 2013 sixteen of the best runners from Nechako Valley Secondary school took part in the 43rd annual BC High School X-Country Championships at Aldergrove Lake Park in Langley.

The weather was terrible in Langley, with 50 to 80 mil-

limetres of rain that fell during the four championship races.

First, the girls’ team ran 4.3 kilometres and placed fifth overall making it the fourth time in the past five years that they have placed in the top six overall at the provincial level.

Which made history for NVSS said coach

Brian Nemethy.

On the girls’ team: Cierra, Kaitlyn and Georgia Verduzco, Julia Steinebach, Alison Desmarais, Bridian James-Schneider, Anika Wallace and Taryn Stephen.

“This is a huge accomplishment for a small school such as NVSS,” said Nemethy. “My girls

have to compete against school populations of 1,200 or more students and to have a team of girls run almost as fast as the teams in front of them, just shows what a small school can do if the right team dynamics are in place.”

Anika led the way for the girls and

placed 74th out of about 250 girls. Julia placed 75, Georgia was 92, Kaitlyn was 98, Alison was 110, Cierra was 147, Bridian was 179 and Taryn was 172 in the Junior race.

The girls placed fourth in 2009, sixth in 2010, fourth in 2011 and fifth in 2013.

As for the boys team, they were 19 last year and made it to 13 this year, most of the scores were very tight though.

Alexander Nemethy placed 20 overall.

Charlie

Borek placed 78, Kelton McKee was 127, Jonathan Mueller was 172, Patrick Harraway was 173, Kyler Boucher was 198 and Tristal Buller was 223.

Linus Jia ran the Junior race and placed 201.

“Overall it was a fantastic effort made by all members at the Championship race.

They stepped up to the line and gave their best,” said Nemethy. “What more could a coach ask for. I was very proud of them all.”

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The NVSS girls cross-country team wore garbage bags to fight the downpour in Langley. Coach Nemethy said to embrace the rain though, there was going to be no way to avoid getting wet.

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Omineca Express

Year End Revue - December 2013 Parade of Lights

The Kal Tire float one of the entrants in the 2013 Parade of Lights, along with the Mayor Gerry Thiessen handing out candy on a very chilly December 6.

Top: Leah Irvine as small Alice meets the Caterpillar played by Jonah Legere, both actors in grade three.

Bottom: The singing cast of Wonderland try to impart some lesson on Alice and the audience.

Wonderland in Vanderhoof Sam Redding Omineca Express Richard Wruth, director for the Vanderhoof Children's Theatre, had the premier production Alice in Wonderland opening last Thursday, November 28.

The play runs about one and a half hours with an intermission and is filled with the small but confident voices found in children's theatre.

It is the classic story of Alice making her way through Wonderland and meeting all of its strange inhabitants until escaping at the end. All the while children are singing and laughing and sometimes scrambling around on stage to get to their

places.

The children's theatre has been practicing this play since the middle of September and now they will do two weeks of plays here in Vanderhoof and two weeks in Prince George.

"It went really good," said Wruth after the first performance. "It really did. I mean there were a few mistakes but if you're in the audience you would never know they were mistakes. It's a lot of work to figure out what to do with 40 children, you have to figure out who's going where and doing what," said Wruth.

Adding to the confusion was the fact that everyone has a second role that they switch to every second night. So all

the children can get a good role. This means that there are six Alice's, three per group.

"It can get a little confusing when you have it set up like that," said Wruth. "I have to remind myself which night is which."

This performance is the 32nd production for the Vanderhoof Children's Theatre since it was set up in 1999.

And Wruth has been involved in over 40 productions since 1997 as an actor, director and stage manager.

It was a great show on Thursday night and the audience of parents and children found the antics of the young kids hilarious at times.

Greyhound reopening Sam Redding Omineca Express After several weeks of waiting, Vanderhoof has a Greyhound office agent again. Services such as package transportation and the distribution of tickets will finally resume when the office opens on either Monday or Tuesday next week.

Ankie Nellen has worked in the community for eight years, she started out as a sales associate at 7-Eleven and worked her way up to assistant manager and certified store manager.

She applied about three weeks ago because there wasn’t much growth for her available at 7-Eleven and she hopes to apply her skills to the Greyhound office.

“There will be a steady opening of the office again and the parcel pick up and delivery will be starting up again,” said Nellen.

“I will do my best to open at the times that the community would like me to so long as it’s doable with the delivery and pickup services.

And hopefully I will supply some other services also.”

“I’m really glad that somebody has taken over that job,” said Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen. “That’s certainly a job for the private sector. Transportation in the north is such a priority and you see it now without having a taxi service and a spo-

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Nellen has plans to also sell some products out of the store either on commission or otherwise depending on what can be worked out with Greyhound.

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Omineca Express Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Enbridge pipeline will hit wall in B.C., critics say

From front that will run into a wall of opposition in B.C. “It’s going to be tied up in courts for many, many, many years,” Barlee said.

“Environmental organizations will be standing with First Nations and standing with the hundreds of thousands of other British Columbians who oppose this project and don’t want to see it proceed.”

Barlee said the recommendation of approval flies in the face of a newly released federal report that flagged an insufficient capability to respond to an oil spill on the coast.

“This is a project that’s dangerous to our climate, dangerous to our coast and dangerous to our rivers and our salmon,” she said.

“We vow to stand shoulder to shoulder with First Nations, and the thousands of others who oppose this project,” said Murray Minchin of Kitimat-based Douglas Channel Watch, which was an intervenor in the hearings. “We are determined to keep the north coast of B.C. bitumen-free.”

The twin pipelines, carrying diluted heavy bitumen from northern Alberta to Kitimat and condensate used to dliute the heavy oil in the opposite direction, would carve across hundreds of creeks and rivers and send oil tankers out through the narrow passages of B.C.’s north coast.

Ecojustice staff lawyer Barry Robinson said the NEB ignored a huge volume of evidence indicating Northern Gateway is unsafe, unsustainable and unnecessary.

Others argued Enbrige has not proven itself competent to be trusted with B.C.’s environment, citing its 2010 spill of diluted bitumen into the Kalamazoo River in Michigan.

Most environmental campaigners said they were not surprised, citing federal government moves to weaken environmental standards and gut protections for habitat in the Fisheries Act. Ninety-six per cent of written comments to the Joint Review Panel, including the submissions of the province, opposed the Northern Gateway pipeline.

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

NECHAKO COMMUNITY CHURCH MENNONITE BRETHREN

11:00 a.m. Worship Service

1393 Highway 16 East (Across from P.J. Collision)

(Affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of Canada)

250-567-4960

For more information call

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 am

www.thegospelchapel.ca

Sunday School - 11:00 am

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

Making Jesus known

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship

Holy Trinity Anglican Church

567-3107

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: We have a place for you to belong!

For more information call

567-9198 263 Vanderview Drive For more information visit our website: www.vcfemc.com

Burrard Street, Vanderhoof

Sunday Worship & Sunday School 10:30 am Wednesday Morning Worship 7:30 am

St. Wilfred’s Anglican Church Carrier Cresc., Fraser Lake Sunday Worship 10:00 am

A house of prayer for all people

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. ***

www.ominecaexpress.com A9

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....

NEW EVENTS....

The Nechako Valley Festival of the Performing Arts...has a new website. www.musicfestivalweb. com/nechako. Please visit the website for syllabus and registration information. You can view the syllabus online.

If a paper copy is required, there is a limited number available at the Vanderhoof Public Library. Registration for the festival will be online starting Jan. 1, 2014. The festival will take place from Apr. 12-25, 2014 with the festival concert happening on Apr. 27, 2014. *** VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR IDIDALAP4CANCER...For more information please contact Carrie Smith. Email: carriesmith@hubinternational.com *** NECHAKO VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY...meets at 7pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month at the OK Cafe. *** ADULT BADMINTON...every Thursday at 8pm at NVSS gym. Bring your own racquet. Indoor runners required. For more info call Ann at 250-567-9908. *** 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.

For more information contact DebraAnn Bishop at 250-567-0623 or 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 Oscar for more info: 250-567-4582.

Teams from Smithers, Houston, Prince George and Mackenzie were in attendance at the wrestling competition at NVSS on Saturday, Dec. 14.

*** AL-ANON...Has your life been affected by someone elses drinking? The AlAnon 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 contact Debra-Ann at 250-567-0623 or email 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! *** the vanderhoof cancer support group...meets the first Friday of every month @ noon at the The Reid. For more info call Karen @ 5674828. *** 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 5675254. *** 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 Debbie @ 250-567-7956. *** THE FRASER LAKE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP... meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 12 noon in the New Fraser Lake Restaurant. For further information call Judy at 250699-7763. *** NECHAKO VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY...meets every second Thursday of the month 6:30 pm at the Chamber of Commerce office. *** 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 - 250-6907496 Evenings. *** AA MEETING... Wednesday, 8:00 p.m.

United Church Hall. 567-8087 or 5674588 *** FRASER LAKE AA MEETINGS... Tues & Thurs 8:00 p.m. at St. Wilfred’s Church just across from police station. *** 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 3pm - 8pm Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 2pm *** NVSS BOTTLE DEPOT HOURS Open Mon, Tues, Friday 11am-5pm Saturday 10am-5 p.m.

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Wednesday, January January 1,1,2014 Wednesday, 2014Omineca OminecaExpress Express

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250.567.9258 fax 250.567-2070 email advertising@ominecaexpress.com 150 W Columbia Street, PO Box 1007 Vanderhoof, BC, V0J3A0

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Help Wanted

Dental clinic seeking a full time receptionist.

Tasks include scheduling and confirming appointments, processing payments, knowledgeable with computers, prefer experience with dental program; willing to train right applicant. We are looking for someone with good communication skills, reliable, work well as a team member, friendly and professional disposition a must, be detail oriented with ability to prioritize and multitask. Submit resumes to Nechako Valley Dental Clinic at 240 Stewart Street West in Vanderhoof, or mail to Box 1106, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0.

Cleaning Supervisor req’d.

Sal: $18.00/hr. F/T, Pmt. 1+ yrs. exp. Duties: Supervise and co-ordinate the activities of cleaners. Inspect & ensure of established safety and cleanliness standards are met.

Recommend and arrange additional services. Hire, train and schedule staff. Estimate and optimize budget. May receive payments or perform cleaning duties. Lang: English, Contact: Shyama, Dependable Janitorial Services in Burnaby, BC. Work at various locations in Prince George, BC. Apply at dependable_janitorial@yahoo. ca or fax: 604.630.7275

Experienced parts person required immediately for James Western Star in Williams Lake.

Full time, competitive wages, benefits and signing bonus.

Fax resume to 250-398-6367 or email: nwejr@jamesws.com

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E-Mail: advertising@ ominecaexpress. com OFFICE HOURS Monday thru Friday 8:30am - 5:00 pm Omineca Express published every Wednesday Stuart/Nechako Advertiser published every Friday ADVERTISING DEADLINES Express -- Friday, 12-noon Advertiser -- Tuesday, 12-noon

TERMS & CONDITIONS Advertisements should be read on the first publication day. We are not responsible for errors appearing beyond the first insertion. NO CASH REFUNDS AGREEMENT: It is agreed by any display or classified advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event that errors occur in the publishing of any advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and there will be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

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

Help Wanted

Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca

Cellular Telephone Technician req’d. Sal: $29.00/hr. 40hr./wk.

F/T, Pmt. 2+ yrs. exp. Duties: Install, arrange, remove and maintain telephone equipment, wiring and associated hardware. Test telephone systems.

Locate transmission faults.

Repair or replace defective and damaged parts to telephones. Lang: English.

Contact: Kashif from Star Accessories in Prince George, BC. Please apply at: star_access@yahoo.ca

NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE 18 December 2013

Reservoir Elevation: 851.02 m (2792.08 ft.)

SLS Discharge: 33.52 m3/s

CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL Best Rates. 1.800.663.1818

Visit website www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time flow information for the Nechako River.

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

Employment

Help Wanted

Employment

Help Wanted

Business Opportunities TRAIN TO be an Apartment/Condominium Manager online! Graduates get access to all jobs posted with us. 33 years of success! Government certified. www.RMTI.ca or 1800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

Help Wanted

Selkin Logging Ltd

Is currently looking for full time Heavy Duty Mechanic, and Owner/Operator Logging trucks to work in the Vanderhoof and Fraser Lake areas.

ONLY EXPERIENCED OPERATORS TO APPLY. Benefit package and registered pension plan available.

To apply fax resume to: (250) 699-6545 email: selkin1@bcgroup.net

EXPERIENCED MECHANIC REQUIRED SHOP, FIELD AND CAMP WORK Must be willing and able to work independently Drivers Licence required

Competitive Wages Please Fax resume to 250-692-0043 Or Deliver in Person at: 135 Roumieu Dr. Burns Lake (In the Industrial Site)

CED Project Coordinator Community Futures Stuart Nechako has an opening for a CED Project Coordinator. The CED Project Coordinator position is a part time (25hrs. per week) and will support the organization in the development of Community Development projects.

Job Description: Reporting to the General Manager, the CED Project Coordinator will work to develop various Community Development projects initiated by Community Futures through engagement with the community, establishing partnerships and guiding the process to completion. The successful candidate must be a self-starter and have an interest in Community Development.

Position Requirements: 1. Strong (oral / written ) communication skills 2. Sound knowledge of Community Economic Development 3. Experience working in partnership with other agencies 4. Experience assisting in the development and implementation of programs 5. Experience promoting Community Economic Development programs and services 6. Experience promoting and supporting program delivery, including special projects 7. Experience assisting clients in conducting business / market research 8. Combined relevant education and experience 9. Strong computer skills in Microsoft environment 10. Ongoing interest in development of new business opportunities 11. Valid BC Driver’s License and reliable vehicle 12. Experience with the development and maintenance of Social Media.

Salary to be commensurate with experience Please provide a cover letter with resume and send to: Box 1078, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Or contact Graham Stanley at 250-567-5219

The Key To

Your New Career

Employment

Omineca Express Wednesday, 1,2014 2014 Wednesday,January January 1,

Employment

Services

Sales

Legal Services

2 Salesperson req’d. Sal: $12.00/hr. 40hr./wk. F/T, Pmt. No exp. req. Duties: Greet customers. Advise customers on use and care of products.

Estimate or quote prices, credit terms and warranties.

Prepare sales. Accept cash, cheque, credit card or automatic debit payments. Assist in display of merchandise.

Maintain sales records. May help in take inventory. Lang: English. Contact: Kashif from Star Accessories in Prince George, BC. Please apply at: star_access@yahoo.ca

www.ominecaexpress.com A11 A11 www.ominecaexpress.com

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Misc. for Sale

Apt/Condo for Rent

STEEL BUILDINGS/Metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or visit us online at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Victoria Manor

Real Estate Lots LAKEVIEW LOT FOR SALE ON BOWRON LAKE, B.C. 2.58 acres, unserviced, small trees on it. 100 ft. from lake. $250,000. Call: 1-250983-2594

Trades, Technical JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages, relocation allowance, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop.

Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrysler.ca. Fax 403-854-2845; Or send by email to: chrysler@telusplanet.net

IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple.

Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

Large 1 Bdrm from

$695 - $725

www.dialalaw.org

Telephone Services DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect home phone service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call National Teleconnect today! 1866-443-4408. or visit online: www.nationalteleconnect.com

Misc. for Sale

Financial Services

$725 - $755

NO SMOKING - NO PETS

Merchandise for Sale Services

Large 2 Bdrm from

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available.

1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper?

* Balconies * Landscaped View * Cablevision Available

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent ABOVE THE REST!

250-567-4048 or 250-567-9080

The eyes have it Fetch a Friend from the SPCA today!

Silvermill Apartments Secure quiet apartments VACANCY

spca.bc.ca

Townhouses

250-567-4208 BURRARD APARTMENTS. Two bdrm suites. No pets 250-567-9128

3/bdrm townhouses in a family- friendly complex. Close to downtown, schools & park. $695/mth. 250-567-4430

VANDERHOOF AND AREA BUSINESS DIRECTORY EXCAVATING PLUMBING PLUMBING

PLUMBING/HEATING/GASFITTING SOLAR THERMAL Box 2033 Vanderhoof

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

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

“Your Water Professional”

250-567-5888

ACCOUNTANTS Chartered Accountants

ADVERTISING

CENTRAL INTERIOR IF YOUEXCAVATING WOULD

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

LIKE TO ADVERTISE

HERE 567-3855 IF YOU WOULD GIVE US A CALL: LIKE TO ADVERTISE HERE GIVE US A CALL: 250-567-9258 250-567-9258

Plumbing Plumbing & & Heating Heating Rural Rural Water Water & & Sewer Sewer Systems Systems Water Water Treatment Treatment & & Filtration Systems Filtration Systems INSTALLATION INSTALLATION & & REPAIRS REPAIRS

FRANK FRANK TEICHROEB TEICHROEB

EXCAVATING

Cell: 567-0031

J.C.’s WATERWORKS LTD.

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

250-567-3010

EX100 Excavator 4x4 Extend-a-hoe Rubber Tire Backhoe Basements, Foundations, Waterline, Septic Systems, Lot Clearing, Hoe-Pac, Hydraulic Breaker and more!

We are in the business to serve you!

PLUMBING PLUMBING

)) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) )) ))

Schneider Services Ltd.

EXCAVATING PRAIRIEDALE EXCAVATING

996-8482

Fax: 996-8451

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

ADVERTISING

ADvertiser STUART STUART NECHAKO NECHAKO

Accounting Computers ● Financial Planning

HST Income Tax ● Payroll ●

●

●

KPMG Prince George #400 - 177 Victoria Street Prince George, BC, V2L 5R8 250-563-7151

ADVERTISING

Reaching Every Every Door Door Reaching

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

Pam Berger Berger Pam Publisher Publisher

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

Providing a Full Range of Business Services ●

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

Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

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

Pam Berger Berger Pam Publisher Publisher

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

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

Email: Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com advertising@ominecaexpress.com

A12 www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Omineca Express The cadets sang old time carols for the residents at the Stuart-Nechako Manor. This is an annual event that the Cadets do for people who may not be able to get out in the community to attend Christmas concerts themselves.

Photos submitted by Cathy Ray

Best Wishes

Sending best wishes your way for a happy and prosperous new year. May you and your family find health and happiness now and throughout the coming year.

Happy New Year! from

Certified General Accountant Burns Lake Office Box 597 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 Phone: 250-692-7595 Fax: 250-692-3872 mcphail@mcphailcga.com

Prince George Office 204 – 688 Brunswick St. Prince George, BC V2L 2C1 Phone: 250-562-8477 Fax: 250-562-8489 mcphail@mcphailcga.com

www.mcphailcga.com

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

VANDERHOOF

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

ENDAKO

Endako Bar & Grill

CLUCULZ LAKE BROOKsiDE REsORt FRAsER LAKE

Par 3 Sports Fraser Lake Rexall Fraser Lake Building Supplies

ENGEN

Engen Road Giesbrecht Frontage Road

FORt FRAsER

Fort Fraser Petro Can

FORt st JAMEs

Lakeshore Realty Sana’aih Market Overwaitea Foods Fort Loonie Bin Fas Gas Plus Lakeside Pharmacy