Vanderhoof Omineca Express, June 26, 2019

Inside

◆ B.C. forest industry A2 ◆ Coastal Fire A6 ◆ Highway 16 revitalization A5 ◆ Community Builder A28

Publications Mail Contract # 40007840 Published by Black Press Ltd., 150 West Columbia Street, Vanderhoof, BC

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019

SHOPPING LOCAL AT THE VANDERHOOF FARMER’S MARKET

The Farmer’s Market is back for the summer with local producers, artists, farmers getting together every Thursday at Ferland Park in Vanderhoof. Pick up the June 26th edition of the Stuart Nechako Advertiser for more photos from the Farmer’s market. (Aman Parhar photo)

NEW WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE FOOTBRIDGE BEING BUILT ON THE WETLAND OFF HIGHWAY 16 A wheelchair accessible footbridge is being built across the wetland in Vanderhoof on Hwy 16. The property is owned by Ducks Unlimited on behalf of the Vanderhoof Fish and Game Club. Shown are BC Wildfire firefighters who were helping the Men’s Shed in building the bridge. See story on page 7. (Aman Parhar photo)

The footbridge aims to make the wetland more accessible to schools as well for educational outreach programs.

(Aman Parhar photo)

A2 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

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NEWS

Stumpage costs to increase on July 1 MLA John Rustad speaks about the issues faced by the B.C. forest industry

By Aman Parhar

With the forest industry in British Columbia going through a turmoil, Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad said the lumber industry will see a tough time this summer with stumpage prices going up further on July 1.

“This increase in stumpage is going to make operating in B.C. more costly. There is a flaw in the stumpage system because there is a six month to one year delay in how prices work. So now we are seeing prices go up, due to high prices from last year

where now prices have collapsed and stumpage is not reflecting it,” Rustad said.

Some mills such as the Vavenby sawmill in B.C. that is permanently shutting down operations in July are closing due to long terms log supply constraints, the high cost of fibre and the ongoing depressed lumber markets.

To add to that, the impact of pine beetle led to the reduction of annuable allowable cuts.

“Log supply issues due to pine beetle will lead to closures and there will be mills that go from three shifts to two, but second is the cost stricture. We are in an uncompetitive situation and mills are taking more down time due to the high cost structure,” he said.

Companies like Canfor and Conifex that have curtailments on their mills in B.C., have operation in the United States, Alberta and other jurisdictions where they are not taking any down time.

He said residents of Alberta don’t pay carbon tax, employer health tax and others that B.C.

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John Rustad, Nechako Lakes MLA. residents do.

“There are 17 to 19 different things that the provincial NDP government has recently added that have driven up cost. Carbon tax was in place before but it was revenue neutral. We can’t blame the current government for carbon tax as a whole, but we are in situation where we have increased cost which has caused an uncompetitive situation,” Rustad added.

He said the provincial government needs to step up to the

plate and adjust prices. “It is not a subsidy and would not have an impact I believe on softwood lumber because it is just reflecting current market changes.”

Apart from adjusting stumpage prices to reflect current market conditions, Rustad said, the provincial government needs to find a way to drive down costs that contractors have and put a short term hold on carbon tax.

“Steps like that can help reduce their cost structure and get the mills working. In the meantime, if companies still need downtime, workers need to make payments and they can’t get on EI because they still have to wait two weeks.”

“So they have essentially lost a pay cheque. The government needs to talk to the federal government about bringing in a package that supports the workers that are being impacted by these curtailments,” he said.

However, there is an opportunity right now because of the current market conditions to make a shift in thought, Rustad explained.

He said most communities that are faced with these curtailments need work done on wildfire risk mitigation. “Lot more can be done in the woods to help communities be fire safe, and you have a skilled workforce. They are forestry workers and are used to doing this work.

Set up an immediate fund that communities can access to put some of this workforce to work and help get us through this period of time where industry is going through a downtime.

Over 333 employees are affected at the Plateau alone which if one considers the larger impact with families, over 700 people get affected by just one mill taking downtime, Rustad said.

As for local government, they can do some advocacy to get resources from the provincial government. “When it comes to temporary curtailments, they (municipal government) need to ask the provincial government to step up to the plate.

Bring in some resources and help us through this time by also relaxing EI for workers

affected,” he added.

Rustad said he visited Conifex workers in Fort St. James who are affected by these curtailments and said the workers were worried about their pensions, seniority, structure. He said there are labour issues, uncertainty, fear of finding another job which are legitimate concerns.

Meanwhile, he said B.C. can learn from Sweden as they are able to better utilize fibre.

Sweden has a similar terrain and climate to British Columbia and currently in B.C., the forestry industry operates on 23 million hectares which is less than a quarter of the provincial size. And Sweden operates on 21 million hectares.

“We in B.C. have a cut rate of 64 million cubic metres and they (Sweden) have a cut of upto 92 million cubic metres because they are better at utilizing fibre, they aren’t leaving waste behind, they are doing second cuts. There is a different approach and we need a big shift and I feel there is an opportunity to do things differently,” Rustad said.

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NEWS

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A3

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DISTRICT’S WORKS CREW PAVING THE LOT NEXT TO THE YMCA The Public Works Crew has taken up multiple projects this summer including paving parking lots and roads.

More information about the 5 year capital plan of the District of Vanderhoof will be available in the next issue of the Omineca Express. Submitted photos.

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A4 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

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EDITORIAL

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

Wading through the PR tsunami post-pipeline approval time to get shovels in the ground.”

The BC Liberal Caucus naturally used the decision to lambaste the governing NDP: “‘Today’s decision by the federal government sends a clear message to John Horgan and the NDP: The time for obstruction is over – their government needs to get out of the way and support this project.’”

Of those initial 19 press releases, the majority were Indigenous groups and environmental organizations issuing missives written long ago, knowing Trudeau would say yes to TMX. From the Sierra Club to Greenpeace to Stand.Earth to the David Suzuki Foundation, the messages were clear. From Greenpeace: “For the Trudeau government to approve this pipeline after declaring a climate emergency makes about as much sense as pouring gasoline on a burning fire.”

As for Indigenous leaders, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs is not impressed. Their headline: “Canada Approves TMX Despite Failing to Achieve Consent: Declaration of Climate Emergency Rings Hollow.”

Tsleil-Waututh Chief Leah George-Wilson called Trudeau’s approval “disappointing” if “not surprising” and vows to fight it in court.

Those who hate Trudeau, hate Trudeau no matter what he does, this file proves it. Those who support environmental responsibility are unsurprised by Scheer’s derision but are left disappointed by a Prime Minister who declared a climate emergency one day and approved the tripling of a pipeline to get diluted bitumen from Alberta to tidewater the next.

Nuanced positions are increasingly tough to hold in politics, division is the order of the day. You are either with us or you are against us. The environment or the economy. Leaders who try to have cake and eat it look greedy.

Political cartoonist Greg Perry drew an unflattering image of Trudeau in a pickle costume musing how it isn’t easy being green.

Yes, the PM is in a pickle of his own making.

But isn’t that the reality of balancing an economy and an environment?

And as usual, the best cartoonists nail down in one image what a press release writer (or columnist) can lay out in 650-or-so words.

Paul Henderson is a reporter for the Chilliwack Progress

Paul Henderson The Progress

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Don Bodger The Courier

Graduation is one of those occasions that marks a significant achievement and turning point in life.

And we’re not talking about preschool, kindergarten, elementary school or middle school graduation.

Those creations of the new generation are only precursors to the real thing - high school graduation and then college or university for some.

Our high schools in and around Fort St. James, Fraser Lake and Vanderhoof, reached their pinnacle this month during the annual ceremony at the gymnasium, heading into whatever the next phase brings.

For some, the transition from high school education to higher learning or directly to jobs will be easy. For others, it will be a struggle.

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acquiring advanced education that will set them on their desired career path.

They can build upon their experiences at our schools and develop their knowledge even further with additional tools of the trade.

There are new fields to be explored, like robotics, that are capturing the imagination of young people to see how their skills can be applied.

The sky truly is the limit, but there really is no hurry to get there.

This is one small step for grads, and nowhere near a giant leap in their lives if we can paraphrase a little from famous astronaut Neil Armstrong.

There is much to explore in the world and new surprises around every corner. This generation seems focused to make a difference and there are certainly some big issues to conquer beyond whatever employment opportunities arise.

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Serving Vanderhoof, Fraser Lake, Fort Fraser. Published every Wednesday by Black Press at 150 W. Columbia St., Box 1007 Vanderhoof, B.C. V0J 3A0 Copyright number 321634.

Stories, photographs, illustrations, designs and type styles in The Omineca Express are the property of the copyright holders, its illustrations repo services and advertising agencies. Reproduction in whole or in part, without written permission, is specifically prohibited. Authorized as second-class mail by the Post Office Department, Ottawa, and for payment of postage in cash.

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Suffice it to say our young people are faced with more choices than ever before about what to make of their futures.

Times have changed considerably with so many opportunities available in different sectors, some that didn’t even exist until recently due to the ever-increasing demand for technology expertise.

The bottom line is students can choose their own paths and be successful with the right mindset and work ethic.

Traditional jobs their parents and grandparents held won’t be as likely for this generation. Switching careers many times is a likely consequence, but not necessarily a drawback of the current job environment.

Employment stability is difficult to predict with the global economy constantly shifting.

But, for now, most of the graduates will spend the next few years

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Grads heading into next stage of life

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nlike an earthquake, Tuesday’s federal government “green light” on the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project (TMX) was entirely predictable.

But like an earthquake in the ocean, it came with the requisite tsunami, this one a wave of press releases washing across newsroom desks across B.C. As soon as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the approval, in they came. By the time I left the office Tuesday, I counted 19 press releases from political parties, business groups, Indigenous organizations, Trans Mountain itself and, of course, environmental activists. And that’s just as a B.C. journalist. I’m sure I’m not on everyone’s mailing list. Others may have seen many, many more.

Depending on the point of view, the unsurprising announcement from a government that owns the pipeline in question, a decision to approve the twinning of the 1,150-kilometre pipeline, tripling the capacity, was “stunning hypocrisy” (Rain Forest Action Network) or “disgraceful in a climate emergency” (Wilderness Committee or “a violent act against young people” (Sierra Club of BC).

From supporters of the pipeline expansion it was tepid support at best, given the small-c conservative politicization of all things Trudeau and/or federally Liberal. If you hate Trudeau, but are pro-pipeline, the response needed to be a half-empty cup.

Well before approval, before 7 a.m., the federal Conservatives put forth leader Andrew Scheer’s response. Building a pipeline is a decision he would have clearly also made, but one he had to criticize: “Cabinet Decision on TMX Meaningless Without Construction Date: Scheer.”

A political “yes, but” response.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business was the least passive-aggressive in support of the decision: “We are pleased to see the federal government’s final decision today granting approval of the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion (TMX) Project.

After more than seven years of review, it’s

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The Omineca Express is a member of Black Press Media. You can email the newsroom at newsroom@ominecaexpress.com. If you have questions or concerns about the delivery of your paper, please email us at office@ominecaexpress.com. The Omineca Express is also a member of the National NewsMedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical conduct. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact the editor at newsroom@ominecaexpress.com or 250-567-9258. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163.

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Express

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A5

NEWS

Revitalizing the Highway 16 corridor in Vanderhoof will require major players to be involved says Mayor Thiessen

By Aman Parhar

There is a lot that can be done on Highway 16 to make it more appealing said Mayor Gerry Thiessen, adding major players like CNR, Imperial Oil and BC Hydro will have to be involved in the process.

BC Hydro has telephone poles on the sidewalk off Highway 16 that turns off towards Burrard Street. Thies-

sen said,”If you are in a wheelchair you will not be able to get around it.

So we are trying to find funding to revitalize it.

Take those poles off main street and put them underground and get them accessible to the businesses that are there. We are trying to make sure we have funding and we may have to go into our reserves to access those funds.”

As of the 2018 fi-

nancial statement of the municipality, the District’s reserves are at $8 million. Added to that, Vanderhoof received a $6 million infrastructure grant of which they transferred $5 million into a reserve to leverage for other funding and aim to put the rest of the money into infrastructure projects around the community.

As for the three ESSO

properties owned by Imperial Oil on the Highway 16 corridor, Thiessen said council is working with the company to find a solution to make those properties more attractive.

“We are working on solutions on what we can do and how we can clean it up and make it more appealing.. We would like to see those properties mitigated and got

back as commercial properties. There are businesses that would like to come to town and would like to be on the main street corridor. We need to get those businesses there and get that property.

Its already serviced and surveyed and has good access. We need to get those properties back on the market,” Thiessen said.

Similarly with CNR

2018 remuneration and expenses of Vanderhoof council and municipal employees

By Aman Parhar

Remuneration and expenses for council members for 2018 Mayor Gerry Thiessen received $35,687.64 in 2018 and his expenses amounted to $15,227.60.

Councillor Darren Carpenter who was a councillor prior to the 2018 election received $9,932.64 and had no expenses.

Councillor Brian Frenkel received $11,895.64 and his expenses total up to $10,215.31.

Councillor Cyndi

Lauze who got elected to the current council in last year’s election received a total of $1,982.64 and her expenses amounted to $539.

Councillor Steve Little received $9,932.64 during his time on council for 2018. He is not a present councillor of the district. His expenses amounted to $1,168.18 for the year.

Councillor John Murphy received $9,932.64 and his expenses amounted to $489.

Councillor Kevin Moutray received

$11,985.84 and his expenses amounted to $2,361.15.

Councillor Ken Young had no expenses in 2018 and received $11,895.84 for the year.

Remuneration and expenses for municipal employees for 2018 Zoë Dhillon, special projects coordintor for the District received $76,774.37 and her expenses amounted to $947.35.

Lori Egli, currently the chief administrative officer for the District received $105,591.54 and her expenses amounted

VILLAGE OF FRASER LAKE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to the provisions of Section 124 of the Community Charter, a Public Hearing will take place in the Council Chambers of the Village of Fraser Lake at 210 Carrier Crescent on June 26, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. to consider the following: Corporation of the Village of Fraser Lake Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 809, 2019 The proposed of this Bylaw is to update the Village of Fraser Lake Official Community Plan.

Copies of the proposed bylaw will be available for inspection at the Village Office, 210 Carrier Crescent during regular business hours (08:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Monday to Friday; excluding statutory holidays from June 12 to June 26, 2019.

You may forward your written submission to: Email: rjholland@fraserlake.ca Mail: P.O. Box 430, Fraser Lake, B.C. V0J 1S0 Fax: (250) 699-6469 Please note, submissions that are subject of a public hearing, public meeting or the public process will be included in their entirety in the public information package and will form part of the public record.

Council shall not receive further information or submissions after the conclusion of the Public Hearing.

to $11,424.98.

Robert Evans, public works foreman, received $80,361.68 and had no expenses for the year.

Ian Leslie, fire chief, earned $95,573.27 and his expenses amounted to $8491.16 for the year.

Chad Westrbook, operations superintendent earned $110,398.27 and had

no expenses over the year.

Other wages for current employees from last year that are under $75,000 per annum total up to $1,183,018.93 in salaries being paid.

The total remuneration for municipal employees for 2018 is $2,055,366.06 and total expenses are $59,119.44.

as they own a lot of property along the Highway 16 corridor, Thiessen said if some of that property could be sold to businesses nearby, it would allow businesses to expand and build.

“We know a couple of businesses that will be able to change their business plan and add more employees if they were just able to get a little bit more of property. So we are working with CNR and piece by piece to ask what we can do on these properties to make that happen,” he added.

Downtown Core Mayor Thiessen said Burrard Street has a lot of heavy equipment driven up and down that street and requires to be re-done. He said

council is looking to use some of the $5.7 million infrastructure funding received from the government towards that purpose.

He said in terms of other plans, the seniors centre that is being built on the corner of Church and Victoria will get more people downtown.

Tasty Tandoori, a popular Indian restaurant in Vanderhoof is also moving operations to main street by the end of July. Thiessen said the restaurant will brighten up the street.

Other than that, the District put up new banners that can be seen along the hill that goes towards Prince George.

New Logo The District went

through a re-branding exercise and received funding for it. The firm and consultant hired for the process were not local businesses and Thiessen said they had to put out the hiring call on Civic Info and got requests and had to decide on the basis of that.

The new logo is not very different from the previous logo with the goose shaded a different color. Thiessen said the logo represents Vanderhoof.

“We all operated with that and went through the process. I think we were all expecting a significant change and hoping some something magical. But I think this is who we are and it is an identifier,” he said.

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Following the entry deadline, the selection panel will review all entries and the top five finalists will be selected and interviewed at the RDBN Business Forum. The winner will be announced at the RDBN Business Forum Gala Dinner on October 22nd.

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NEWS

Wildfire burning in coastal forest Dire beside Sea to Sky Highway is burning up a steep slope

By Steve Kidd Black Press Media

way today after a wildfire broke out around 11 a.m. this morning.

It’s a little slow going The Strip Creek fire on the Sea to Sky High- broke out around 11

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a.m. between Lions Bay and Horseshoe Bay and is burning up a hillside next to the highway.

According to BC Wildfire, the fire is burning in very steep terrain and crews are responding with aircraft support as well as support from other agencies.

Donna McPherson, fire information officer with the Coastal Fire Centre said there are currently 29 firefighters working on the blaze, along with five helicopters and an air tanker group with four water skimmers and two planes dumping retardant.

“They are trying to slow its upward momentum,” said McPherson, explaining that rather than being a wall of flame, the Strip Creek fire is “creeping along the ground,” and is currently considered out of control.

“It could be a few days to get this fire under control,” she said.

She also said it is

hard to estimate the they get a better hanactual size of the fire, dle on it. and the estimate may “No structures are go up or down when threatened, the closest

structures are downhill is under investigation. and across the highTravel along the way,” said McPherson. highway has been The cause of the fire affected by the blaze

and BC Wildfire is advising travellers to visit DriveBC for information.

Senior of the Week Sheila Evans-Vander Ploeg

The Sea-to-Sky highway snakes its way up the B.C. coast with a wildfire raging on the forested slopes above. (BC Wildfire photo)

“We were born and raised here. My parents were born and raised here as well. My paternal grandparents were the first settlers married in Vanderhoof. This town is special, everyone has always been friendly and helpful. Everybody doesn’t know everybody anymore but I use the term ‘familiar strangers’, and that makes Vanderhoof such a beautiful place to live in. Its the slow pace of life and sometimes now you have to wait to get onto the street because there is more traffic. Haha. But thats okay.

In terms of why I haven’t retired yet, I really like my job at the library.

And I like the team of people I work with here. Its a great place to work. I work 4 afternoons a week and I call it the perfect retirement job.”

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A7

NEWS

The footbridge is being built over the body of water at the Wetland in Vanderhoof. (Aman Parhar photo)

BC Wildfire Firefighters helped Men’s Shed in building and the wheelchair accessible foot bridge. (Aman Parhar photo)

Community groups collaborate to build a footbridge at a Vanderhoof wetland

By Aman Parhar

A wheelchair accessible bridge is being built at the wetland in Vanderhoof on Hwy 16. This project is a collaboration between Ducks Unlimited, the Vanderhoof Fish and Game club, Men’s shed and BC Wildfire firefighters.

The wetland is owned by Ducks Unlimited on behalf of the Fish and Game club and have leased the land for a minimal amount to the District of Vanderhoof.

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“We are trying to create opportunity for tourism, photography and more importantly for school students to become involved in what’s here in terms of wetland value, what fits in the ecosystem and more. We are also working with the agricultural community to show that grazing can happen on a wetland,”

said Wayne Salewski from the Fish and Game Club. Salewski has been a strong advocate in the community for environmental conservation in different forms.

He said many ducks need grazed land in order to successfully feed and nest. For instance a pin tail requires to nest not only

on the water edge but on tufts of grass on the field, Salewski said, adding once eggs hatch they migrate to the water.

“We have had ducks, geese, foxes, deer, coyotes. So we are hoping this will definitely create some more educational outreach,” he said.

The wetland is on

approximately 90 acres Salewski said. tunity for community fire calls. The got to do “For the firefighters outreach before they some low impact work of land with different streams of water and this was a great oppor- are sent out on other here,” he added. ponds through the property.

The footbridge is becing provided by THE NECHAKO VALLEY’S LARGEST NEWS SOURCE M4 contracting and is being built by the Any Time… Any Place… Any Device!

Men’s shed who were also getting help from BC Wildfire firefighters who just came inf rom Nelson, our

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COMMUNITY Picking Indian Tea in Binche Whut’en Territory Express

By Dave Birdi, Economic Deveoplment officer for Binche Whut’en

Pickled Tea. (Submitted photo)

Here are few photos of Indigenous Day at Binche. Harry from Binche Whut’en enjoys tea during Indigenous Indigenous Tea and Bannock was served at Binche Peoples Day celebrations. (Submitted photo) Community Centre. Tea was handpicked and dried for 3 days. (Submitted photo) ering of rusty, dense leased huge amounts hair. If the bottoms of piney camphor-like looking at its leaves.

Each leaf edge is of the leaves are fuzzy perfume.

However, it is good They are up to 6 cm rolled under slightly and rust colored, it is long and are oblong at the edges. On the safe to say it’s Indian idea to ask an elder or or lance-shaped, with underside of the tea Tea. The open pores plant expert to be sure a blunt tip. leaves there is a cov- on the underside re- you have identified the plant correctly.

Look for Indian tea in barrens, wetlands and bogs, damp and dry woods, beside ponds, exposed areas, and in artic-alpine

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barrens. It often forms a low canopy in wet forests and provides cover for smaller animals to hide in as they move through open bogs.

The Plant is often eaten by deer and elk.

Because of its medical qualities, Indian Tea has been traded and used as a remedy for different illnesses over the last 10,000 years.

Indian Tea has become popular as a modern herbal remedy for colds, chest infections, and fevers.

Often it is drank as a tea or tonic for its spicy taste.

Preparing tea. (Submitted photo)

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We call it Indian Tea (Labrador tea, Haida tea or Hudson’s Bay tea), harvested in spring or summer when the leaves are young and tender and are growing upright.

Plants are harvested at different times of the season depending on what it is used for or when they will have the strongest medicinal energy.

The tea has a unique lemony odor that is warm and inviting.

When the plant blossoms it is used medicinally, without the blossoms it is used for tea. It is encouraged to always make an offering of thanks to the plant.

Indian Tea is a short shrub, usually 50 - 150 cm tall. The flowers form white umbrellas at the end of each stem of leaves. Each flower has 5 distinct petals.

The best way to identify Indian Tea is by

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A9

NEWS Hampton mills stand out for avoiding curtailments Express

Planning, cost cutting explain mills’ success Blair McBride

More than a dozen sawmills shut down across the province in June amid industry difficulties but the two locals mills of Hampton Lumber are still running.

To the east and west of Burns Lake mills experienced shutdowns this month, with mills in Houston, Fraser Lake and Vanderhoof announcing temporary curtailments. Canfor’s Vavenby mill was shutdown permanently.

“Certainly Babine and Decker Lake are not immune to the challenges resulting from a weak lumber market and extremely high log costs. I would assume almost all mills in British Columbia will lose money with the industry economics that have existed through the first

half of 2019,” as Steve Zika, Chief Executive Officer of Hampton Affiliates, which owns the two mills, told Lakes District News.

The CEO pointed to a few factors that have helped the company avoid curtailments at its mills in B.C. “We believe the synergy between Babine and Decker, our strong sales group which is focused on market diversity, a focus on cost reduction and a commitment to continual improvement from everyone at the mill sites all adds up to help us better protect the mills from curtailments. It does not make us immune to curtailments but it all adds up to potentially limiting our downtime. As a private company with family and First Nations ownership when we experience market

weaknesses we try not to react too quickly with curtailments.”

Another possible factor in the success thus far of the Babine mill is the way it planned out its timber supply, as Phil Burton, Professor of Ecosystem Science and Management University of Northern British Columbia explained.

“Babine had its wood supply identified for the rebuild after the pine beetle outbreak, so there perhaps was a better picture of a sustainable wood supply for it than for mills that ramped up production to take advantage of the beetle salvage uplift.”

However, Zika added that curtailments are still possible, “We are a business and if sales prices and log costs are not aligned for long periods of time, or our inventories grow too large, we will have to take down time to ensure the viability of the operations.”

While the Hampton mills in Burns Lake are

Hampton Lumber’s Decker Lake and Babine sawmills in Burns Lake have managed to avoid the curtailments that many other mills in the region have undertaken in June. (Lakes District News file photo) doing satisfactorily for now, Zika hopes the recent improvement in spruce, pine and fir (SPF) lumber prices will lift up the prospects for other mills in the province.

There are still many unknown factors beyond the short-term, he said.

“Lumber prices are volatile and we can’t assume they will stay at current levels. The real

NVSS GIRLS RUGBY TEAM GET DONATION FROM RBC RBC Vanderhoof provided hole in one sponsorships at the Natural Resources Golf Tournament which also included a $1000 donation from the RBC Foundation to the NVSS Girls Rugby Team. Included in the picture from Left to Right are: RBC Financial Advisor Karen Ellis, Brynli Albertson, Kalissa Brooks, Brielle Brooks and Sean Rodgers. (Submitted photo)

challenge remains short and mid-term timber supply for most of the mills in B.C.. Babine, Decker and community stakeholders are focused on working with government to ensure the Annual Allowable Cut reduction in the Lakes District is as flexible as possible to balance the timber management and economic effects of any decision.”

The District of Vanderhoof wishes to advise that the Public Works Department will be replacing culverts in the Riverview Area starting in June 2019 until the project is completed. During this time, residents may experience possible traffic route changes and heavy equipment in the area, please use caution when in this area.

Thank you, Chad Westbrook Operations Superintendent

A10 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

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Intergenerational pain of residential schools lingers Cycles of substance abuse and tragedy linked to colonial policies David Gordon Koch Campbell River Mirror

North Island resident Denise Nelson counted on her fingers the six relatives that died of fentanyl overdoses last year.

She was with her husband Dean Nelson at the ‘Namgis First Nation burial grounds at Alert Bay, a tiny village on Cormorant Island, northeast of northern Vancouver Island.

Their lives have been marked by tragedies they trace back to residential schools and other colonial policies.

While neither of them attended residential schools, their close relatives did. The trauma lingers in every Indigenous community, said Denise.

“Every reserve you see has been afflicted by the residential schools,” she said.

She recalled discussing residential schools in Campbell River re-

cently. A non-Indigenous passerby told her “that’s done and over with,” Denise recalled.

“I said, you know what? It is not done and over with.”

Her mother was among the estimated 150,000 Indigenous children who attended residential schools in Canada. About 6,000 of them died inside those institutions. The last one closed in 1996 in Punnichy, Sask.

Her mother survived the experience at a school in Port Alberni. But Denise said it turned her mother, who died years ago, into an abuser.

“It doesn’t go away…

I was the victim of her wrath,” said Denise, 55, who is originally from Squamish Nation. She recently started attending counselling.

She was in Alert Bay to visit the grave of her daughter, Doreen Joseph. Denise said her daughter died in

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car accident involving a drunk driver. The cycles of substance abuse and tragedy are all linked, she said.

“It all stems down to residential schools.”

The ‘Namgis First Nation burial grounds in Alert Bay are located near the former site of St. Michael’s Residential School, which was run by the Anglican Church until 1974.

Indigenous children from across Vancouver Island and as far north as Haida Gwaii were forced to attend St. Michael’s, where they were prohibited from speaking their language. Many students reported physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

The decrepit four-storey brick building was demolished following

a healing ceremony in 2015 that brought together hundreds of people.

Former students threw stones at the building, and heavy equipment tore down the school’s front porch.

The school that once loomed over Alert Bay is now an empty field.

But the past is close behind, and the intergenerational legacy of residential schools and other colonial policies endure.

“Half of these people went to that school,” said Dean Nelson, who is originally from Gilford Island, as he gestured at the surrounding grave markers.

“They got taken away from all their villages.”

Many of them would attempt to escape the institutions, which were designed to assimilate Indigenous children.

Campbell River residents Dean and Denise Nelson are pictured at the grave of Doreen Joseph, Denise’s daughter, in Alert Bay on June 9. Photo by David Gordon Koch/ Campbell River Mirror Those who ran away included his mother, who is now deceased.

Dean said that most of his uncles and aunts went to residential schools. They still suffer, he said, and many turned to substance abuse.

“People drank trying to kill the pain,” he said. “I drank, thinking about my family, and I drank and drank. And one

day I quit… I had to.”

He said that a healing program for Indigenous people in the Campbell River area was shut down a few years ago for lack of funds. Dean and Denise both attended workshops that offered support for people dealing with issues including grief, anger and trauma.

To deal with the grief of lost family,

Campbell River residents Dean and Denise Nelson are pictured at the ‘Namgis Burial Grounds in Alert Bay on June 9. Photo by David Gordon Koch/Campbell River Mirror Denise said, she often River as medicine. weeps and washes her“That’s how I’ve surself in the Campbell vived.”

Jordan Crammer received the Peter Rodseth Environmental Stewardship Award At the NVSS Graduation ceremony on June 15th the new Peter Rodseth Environmental Stewardship Award was presented to graduate Jordan Cranmer who was also the recipient of the annual $2000.00 Peter Rodseth Memorial Scholarship and the NVSS Citizenship Award (along with other honours).

In her role as a volunteer Jordan worked on local environmental projects with the Sturgeon Hatchery and the Nechako Environmental and Stewardship Society. As president of the NVSS Student

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Saturdays 8pm United Church for more information call: Betty 250-570-9855 Brian 250-567-8087

Council Jordan she was a strong role model for her peers, exhibiting leadership and motivational skills in her participation with the Canada-wide Ecology Community Health Observatory, UNBC’s Integrated Watershed Research Group and School District 91’s Stream Keepers project. Jordan and fellow students in conjunction with Ella Parker of UNBC produced a documentary about stream restoration on Murray Creek (a tributary of the Nechako) Jordan Crammer. Photo submitted entitled “Stream MonS.D. 91,” narrated by Biochemistry and Moitoring for Change in Jordan and previewed lecular Biology with the Reel Alternatives a view to creating a AA MEETINGS atFilm Event in March. deeper understanding Wednesdays & Fridays Jordan believes that of these factors.

8pm the health of people The Environmental United Church in our communities Stewardship Award for more information is directly affected by and the scholarship call: the state of our en- are in memory of Betty 250-570-9885 vironment and will Peter Rodseth who Gord 250-567-4588 be pursuing studies came to the Nechako Brian 250-567-8087 at UNBC this fall in Valley as a young for-

estry technician in the 1970’s. He built himself a log home overlooking the Nechako River Bird Sanctuary and would become the catalyst and inspiration for community groups fighting for fair flows for the Nechako River in the 1980’s and 1990’s. His epic solo canoe trip with his dog Spring down the Nechako and Fraser Rivers to Vancouver to bring attention to the plight of the Nechako made newspaper headlines throughout British Columbia Peter had a passion for rivers, forests and mountains and was happiest when canoeing, running, hiking, camping and sharing these skills with others, especially young people. A master woodcarver and trail builder by trade, his crowning achievement was the 11 metre, hand-

carved wood mural in the Service BC building in Vanderhoof. A compassionate man who cared for others, he was the environmental conscience of the community and the formidable foe of those who would despoil our only home, Planet Earth. Through his constant research he foresaw the global warming crisis as early as the 1980’s. In Peter’s words, “we must treat our fragile planet with respect.”

The Hans Peter Rodseth Memorial Scholarship Fund is administered by the Vancity Community Foundation. Those who would like to add to the fund in Pete’s memory can contact Allison Felker at the Vancity Community Foundation. Telephone: 604 877 7241.

Email:allison_felker@ vancity.com

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A11

NVSS 2019

Wallace Studios of Vanderhoof photo

Nechako Valley Secondary School Graduates Connor Ebert, Logan Sewell, Clayton Smith, Isaac Macintyre, Jordan Kobylka, Mykenzie Albertson, Heidi Lybbert, Sidney Seymour, Chris Penner, Brody Schumann, Karson Albertson, Kaylon McKee, Landon Deveny, Treikenn Kilpatrick, Dalin Weaver, Brooke Steffey, Tyler Cherry, Steven

McNolty, Kennedy Miles, Callie Bray, Kayla Morin, Emily Prestmo, Seanna Kusler, Cassidy Penner, Cohen Thiessen, Jacob Parent, Jai Sabbarwal, Eshawn Johal, Caleb Goncalves, Coleson Jensen, George Prince, Kyler Freitas, Tias Schneider, Haylee Briltz, Nikki Keyowski, Randy Kipp-Johnson,

School District No. 91

Celebrating Our Graduates HERE’S HOPING ALL OF YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE! Your hard work and dedication have taken you to this point, and we know you’ll continue to achieve great things in the future. Keep up the great work!

Morgan Kipp-Johnson, Cam Delisle, Megan Loewen, Keisha Knox, Andie Zwick, Jordan Cranmer, Ramona Elste, Tyla Walker, Kayla Manky, Gracie Schneider, Isabelle Turgeon, Hayley Stephen, Maddison Penner, Kennedy Andres, Hannah Andres, Alyssa Dowswell, Booker Daniel, Dylan Boon, Aiden Evenson,

Congratulations Congratulations

Graduates!

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A12 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

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NVSS 2019

Wishing all the graduates a bright & successful future!

Congratulations Graduates!

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NVSS 2019

The Sky’s the Limit Sending out our congratulations and best wishes to this year’s graduates! We know you’ll soar to even greater heights as you embark on the next endeavor.

A Special Congratulations to: Cohen Thiessen, and Logan Harris

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A13

Fax: 250-567-2071

CLASS OF 2019! to the Graduating Class of Nechako Valley Secondary School

Well done to each and every one of you!

Best wishes for an exciting future filled with new beginnings.

John RUSTAD, MLA Nechako Lakes

Phone: 250-567-6820 1-877-964-5650 Fax: 250-567-6822 E-mail: John.Rustad.MLA@leg.bc.ca Website: www.JohnRustadMLA.bc.ca

Congratulations on your Graduation

May the next chapter in your life be filled with happiness and success.

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A14 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

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NVSS 2019

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A15

NVSS 2019 2019 NVSS Bursaries and Awards

Aman Pahar photos

4-H Helping Hands Bursary: Hannah Andres, Kennedy Andres, Alyssa Dowswell, Maddison Penner.

Anonymous Bursary: Keisha Knox, Hayley Stephen. Binche Whut’en Award, Kinnon Cameron.

Canfor & Canfor Pulp Scholarship: Logan Sewell, Cohen Thiessen, Zachary Whitecotton. Central Interior Women’s Institute Bursary in Memory of Fribjon Bjornson, Clayton Smith. CUPE 4177 Club 91 Scholarship, Kierra Zacharias.

David Bunting Bursary Fund, Isaac Macintyre.

Debbie Amaral Student Services Scholarship: Isabelle Turgeon, Jonathan Read. Dennis Hiatt Memorial Mud Bog Society Bursary: Dylan Boon. District of Vanderhoof Scholarship: Cassidy Penner, Kayla Morin. Don

Congratulations

2019 GRADS!

Kowallis Memorial Bursary, Connor Ebert.

Dr. C.W. Wong and Dr. Iris Wong Bursary: Megan Loewen. Addison Miller-Gauthier, Dezirae Weaver. Dr. Hu Stephen Memorial Endowment Bursary, Cedric Buchanan. eSports Award: Eshawn Johal. Eugene Marks Memorial Scholarship, Alyssa Dowswell.

Evelyn Dickson PAC Bursary, Jakob Parent.

Faculty Association of CNC Recruitment Scholarship, Dezirea Weaver. Forest Floor Contracting Bursary, Isaac Macintyre. Four Rivers Co-operative Bursary: Eshawn Johal, Seanna Kusler. Greg Beros Memorial Scholarship, Megan Loewen.

Harris & Company Bursary, Kostas Bach. lntegris Credit Union Scholarship: Seanna Kusler, Emily Prestmo.

J. Peter Diemert & Chizuko Scholarship Fund, Emily Prestmo.

Jack Kay History Award, Kennedy Miles.

Jeannine Levesque Memorial Bursary, Cedric Buchanan. Jim Eadie Memorial Scholarship: Isaac Macintyre, Zachary Whitecotton. Jr. Initial Attack Scholarship: Connor Ebert, Logan Sewell, Treikenn Kilpatrick, Eshawn Johal.

Kinette Club of Vanderhoof Scholarship, Kayla Morin. Kinsmen Club of Vanderhoof Bursary, Eshawn Johal.

Kylan Berg Memorial Bursary, George Prince. Leighton Nunn Memorial Bursary, Aiden Evenson. Leticia Schwartz Memorial Bursary, Kostas Bach, Andie Zwick. Lo Elliot Orthodontics Closed Scholarship, Eshawn Johal. Mapes School Bursary: Keanna Antoine-Redcrow, Rob Mooreside. Mark Hurring Memorial Bursary, Cedric Buchanan.

Mielgaard Makin Scholarship, Megan Loewen. Ministry of Authority/District Scholarship: Hannah Andres, Kennedy Andres, Kostas Bach, Dylan Boon, Callie Bray, Stephanie Brondo, Jordan Cranmer, Cam Delisle, Alyssa Dowswell, Connor Ebert, Aiden Evenson, Eshawn Johal, Treikenn Kilpatrick, Keisha Knox, Seanna Kusler, Megan Loewen, Isaac Macintyre, Kayla Manky, Billie McKayPardy, Kennedy Miles, Addison MillerGauthier, Kayla Morin, Jakob Parent, Cassidy Penner, Chris Penner, Maddison Penner, Emily Prestmo, George

Prince, Jonathan Read, Brody Schumann, Logan Sewell, Clayton Smith, Hayley Stephen, Cohen Thiessen, Keenan Thwaites, Isabelle Turgeon, Tyla Walker, Dezirea Weaver, Zach Whitecotton, Jessie Yorston, Kierra Zacharias, Andie Zwick. Mount Milligan (TCRK) Centerra Gold Bursary, Kostas Bach, Connor Ebert. Nechako Lakes Administrators’ Assoc. Bursary: Isabelle Turgeon, Addison Miller-Gauthier, Kierra Zacharias, Alyssa Dowswell. Nechako Lumber Company Ltd. Bursary: Zachary Whitecotton, Dezirea Weaver.

Nechako Valley Animal Health Services Inc. Scholarship, Alyssa Dowswell. Nechako Valley Community Services Inclusion Bursary, Isabelle Turgeon.

Nechako Valley Festival Commemorative Scholarship, Connor Ebert. Nechako Valley Regional Cattleman’s Assoc. Bursary, Maddison Penner. Nechako Woodlot Society Bursary, Isaac Macintyre, Zachary Whitecotton.

Norma Smith Memorial Bursary, Kennedy Miles. North Central Labour Council Bursary, Jessie Yorston.

NTU Academic

The Future Looks Bright

May all of your hopes and dreams come true, graduates!

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Scholarship, Cohen Thiessen. NTU General Scholarship, Addison Miller-Gauthier. NVSS Bottle Depot Bursary, Kennedy Miles, Kostas Bach, George Prince, Cassidy Penner.

NVSS Parent Advisory Council Bursary: Connor Ebert, Isabelle Turgeon, Hannah Andres. NVSS Staff Bursary, Logan Sewell.

NVSS Vikes Leadership Bursary: Jordan Cranmer, Isabelle Turgeon. Omineca Medical Clinic Scholarship: Eshawn Johal, George Prince. Peter Rodseth Memorial Scholarship, Jordan Cranmer.

Prairiedale Elementary School PAC Bursary: Megan Loewen, Emily Prestmo. Sinkut Mountain Cattlemen’s Memorial Bursary, Alyssa Dowswell.

Sinkutview Elementary School PAC Bursary, Logan Sewell. St. John Hospital Auxiliary Society Bursary, Kayla Morin. St. John Hospital Employees Union Bursary, Billie McKayPardy. Stuart-Nechako Woodlot Association Bursary: Alyssa Dowswell, Emily Prestmo, Logan Sewell, Zachary Whitecotton. Todd Millard Memorial Scholarship, Dylan Boon.

Valley District Bursary, Kayla Morin. Vanderhoof Bears Alumni Bursary: Aiden Evenson, Cohen Thiessen.

Vanderhoof Children’s Theatre Scholarship, Cameron Delisle.

Vanderhoof Elks Lodge #473 Scholarship, Callie Bray. Vanderhoof Fire Rescue Bursary, Isabelle Turgeon.

Vanderhoof Golfer’s Association Bursary: Cohen Thiessen, Emily Prestmo, Maddison Penner. Vanderhoof Minor Hockey Bursary: Cohen Thiessen. W.L. Mcleod Elementary Bursary, Andie Zwick.

Yellowhead Road & Bridge “Roads” Scholarship, Connor Ebert.

Yellowhead Road & Bridge Bursary: Hannah Andres, Maddison Penner, Seanna Kusler.

A16 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

Looks Like You Made It!

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

NVSS 2019

Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2019 We wish you all the best today and always.

Omineca Medical Clinic 3348 Hospital Rd., Vanderhoof

250-567-2201

Four Rivers Co-op 2019 Graduates

CONGRATULATIONS on completing this part of your journey!

www.fourriversco-op.crs

YOU’RE GOING PLACES! We wish you good luck on the road ahead of you.

Congratulations!

PJ Collision Ltd. FOR ALL YOUR COLLISION NEEDS! • FREE ESTIMATES! • FULLY LICENCED & QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS • FULL ICBC ACCREDITED

250-567-2466 622 DUMP RD., VANDERHOOF

Aman Pahar photos

Omineca Express

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A17

NVSS 2019

Aman Pahar photos

AIM HIGH!

We know you can accomplish anything!

Congratulations Class of 2019.

HIGHWAY 16, VANDERHOOF TEL: 250-567-4701 FAX: 250-567-2424

A18 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

NORTHSIDE 2019 2019

Northside School Graduates Tyrel Ventin, Kara Friesen, Clay Guenther, Julia Friesen, Kyle Dyck. Kyle Bublitz, Kylie Neudorf, Alex Durupt, Ethan Unger, Amelija Hague, Jared Bublitz Wallace Studio photo

f o s s Cla !

9 1 0 2

Congratulations!

Photo taken by Wallace Studio’s - Kevin Wallace MPA, F/PPOC-BC

Back row: Tyrel Ventin, Kara Friesen, Clay Guenther, Julia Friesen, Kyle Dyck Front row: Kyle Bublitz, Kylie Neudorf, Alex Durupt, Ethan Unger, Amelija Hague, Jared Bublitz

Omineca Express

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A19

In Fraser Lake with

Mouse Mountain Days

Celebrating 152 Years of Canada June 30th

10 am Hostages of Hospitality Capture Come out and watch the Village and RCMP capture this year’s hostages.

In front of Ace Hardware 6pm Youth Ambassador Community Social Meet the Youth Ambassador Contestant’s and see who will be crowned the 2019 Fraser Lake Youth Ambassador.

Held in the upstairs of the arena.

6pm Dinner, Karaoke & Dance at the Fraser Lake Legion 10:30pm White Swan Boat Parade of Lights White Swan Park Enjoy a boat parade of lights while waiting for the fireworks.

Midnight: Fireworks at White Swan Park.

July 1st

8-10am Pancake Breakfast at the 12pm-4pm Community BBQ (Village of Fraser Lake), cake and Fraser Lake Legion ice cream, cotton candy, local 10am Parade Line up - FLESS vendors will be on site, kids zone Parking lot in the arena, and the Forestry Equipment Show & Shine.

10:30am Parade Judging 11:15am Parade Starts 12:00pm Sports Field Stage Singing of “O” Canada, Mayor’s Address, Introduction of Hostages of Hospitality, Best Overall Parade Entry, and much more.

12:30-4pm Sports Field Stage Musical Entertainment

Village of Fraser Lake Celebrate y Canada Da ake in Fraser L Free festivities throughout the town June 30 to July 1

• Fireworks • Community BBQ • Music • Kids Zone Play Area • Pancake Breakfast • CN Miniature Rail Train • Forestry Equipment Show & Shine Visit www.fraserlake.ca for the full list and times of events or call

250-699-6257

A20 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

V A N D E R H O O F Museum Displays

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Museum

9:00am Nechako Valley Historical Society Pancake Breakfast Museum Tour & Kids Scavenger Hunt ~ Meet at the Visitor Centre

Celebrating Canada JULY 1

We a

JULY 1 HOURS:

Happy CANADA DAY ARO

250-567-4701 Fax: 250-567-2424 Highway 16, Vanderhoof

re here to help you

Mobil Gas Bar

ARO ARO ARO

FOOD STORE - 9am-6pm HOME CENTRE - 9am-5pm C-STORE - 5:30am-9pm

Please stop by the Co-op Food Store, Home Centre and Gas Bar for all your Canada Day Needs.

All 3 locations are OPEN on Canada Day!

ARO

Automotive

Automotive Automotive Automotive Automotive Supplies since 1982 2110 Riley Ave. Vanderhoof& Industrial & Industrial Industrial Supplies Supplies && Industrial Supplies

250-567-6013

& Industrial Supplies

since 1982 since 1982 since 1982

since 1982

420 West Street, Vanderhoof (250)(250) 567-2251 420 West 1 1Street, Vanderhoof 567-2251 420 West st st1st Street, Vanderhoof (250) 567-2251

st Street,Vanderhoof 420420 West 1st1Street, (250)567-2251 567-2251 West Vanderhoof (250)

ALSO

Our Prince George Gas Bar on Westgate Ave. Will be open 6am-10pm

FOUR RIVERS CO-OP

A20 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

V A N D E R H O O F CUP CAKES

DUCK RACES KIDS GAMES

Riverside Park

2pm Kinsmen Duck Drop

6pm BBQ, Kids Games, & Beach Volleyball

Popcorn

7pm O Canada & Live Music by Samial Holden 8pm Cupcakes

9 pm Movie in the Park - bring your blanket or lawn chair! Vote for your favourite movie on facebook

MOVIE IN THE PARK

11:30pm Fireworks Enjoy time with your family this Canada Day!

CELEBRATE CANADA DAY!

MONDAY JULY 1 Enjoy everyday low prices on your family’s favorite foods

Regular Store Hours Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM 08:00 AM - 10:00 PM

DRUGStore Pharmacy™ Hours Monday 09:30 AM - 05:30 PM Tuesday 09:30 AM - 05:30 PM Wednesday 09:30 AM - 05:30 PM Thursday 09:30 AM - 05:30 PM Friday 09:30 AM - 05:30 PM Saturday Closed Sunday Closed

Order your groceries on line at www.yourindependentgrocer.ca 2110 Ryley Ave.,Vanderhoof 250-567-6000

Grace Memorial FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORIUM LTD. “Celebrating life, one family at a time.” gracememorialchris@hotmail.com

Full Service Funeral Home Canadian Owned & Operated

Phone: (250) 567-4814 Toll Free: 1-866-567-4814

253 West Stewart Street, Vanderhoof, BC

R K OU CHEC TE FOR I WEBS NG SALEoSm I ns.c M O UPC westauctio .all www

ALL WEST AUCTIONS

Farm, Estate and Machinery Auctions 250-570-8586 cell Henry & Joyce Dyck

A22 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

E

Omineca Express

Canada Day Timeline

ach year, Canadians celebrate their nation’s birthday on July 1. Canada Day is an opportunity for Canadians to show pride in their country while commemorating its history.

More than 150 years ago, Canada became a new federation with its own constitution. Today Canada Day is a statutory holiday celebrated in all provinces and territories, and most businesses close to enjoy the festivities.

In 2019, Canada Day falls on a Monday, which means it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a threeday weekend.

The British North America Act went into effect on July 1, 1867.

The legislation essentially created

Did you know?

I

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

n late 2018 Viola Desmond became the first black Canadian woman to appear alone on a Canadian bank note—a $10 bill which was unveiled by Finance Minister Bill Morneau and Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz during a ceremony at the Halifax Central Library on March 8, 2018.

Canada as a new, domestically self-governing federation, according to the Canadian Museum of History. The original federation consisted of the provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario,

Celebrate our h it w y r t n u o c t a e r g family and friends on Canada Day!

TODD

DOHERTY MP

and Quebec.

In 1868, Governor General Lord Monck signed a proclamation that requested all Canadians celebrate the anniversary of the act going into effect. In 1879, a federal law

Canada Day e t a r b e l e C July 1

Happy Canada Day Taylor Bros.

www.todddoherty.ca

250-564-7771 Todd.Doherty.C1@parl.gc.ca

250-567-2293 Fax: 250-567-2187 599 W. Highway 16, Vanderhoof f101@fountaintire.com www.fountaintire.com

CARIBOO – PRINCE GEORGE

1520 - 3RD AVENUE, PRINCE GEORGE, BC, V2L 3G4

made July 1 a statutory holiday in honor of the “anniversary of the Confederation.” This would be known as Dominion Day, which referenced the country being known as the Dominion of Canada. Dominion Day was renamed “Canada Day” on October 27, 1982.

Much like Independence Day in the United States, Canada Day celebrates a country but also serves as a holiday that signals that the weather has warmed, barbecue season is in full effect, the kids are off from school, and the pools and beaches are ready for crowds. Parades and fireworks are common throughout Canada to mark the occasion.

135 E. Stewart St. 250-567-2246 Toll Free 1-866-567-2246

Omineca Express

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Omineca Express Wednesday, June 26, 2019

ELEL^EPHMb Bh_EU MEV

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A23

www.ominecaexpress.com A23

BCClassifieds.com

ONLINE bcclassifieds@blackpress.ca IN PRINT 1.866.865.4460

...in your community, online and in print

SHANTZ, Larry Eldon

Remembering Beautiful are memories of a moonlit night with you,

November 19, 1938 - June 12, 2019 Born November 19, 1938 in Wetaskiwin, AB, passed June 12, 2019 in Prince George, BC. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Shantz, 80. He will be forever in our hearts and greatly missed by his wife, Joyce, of 54 years, his daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, brother, sister, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Larry lived most of his adult life in Vanderhoof working hard and playing hard. He had a special love of hockey and golf (it was also hard to beat him at crib). Larry’s wishes were that there be no service or celebration of life. A private family gathering as per his request will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the PG Hospice House, 1506 Ferry Ave, Prince George, BC V2L 5H2.

The spark of love we lit and all the world felt new.

My heart told me I’d known you, in times so long ago, Something deep inside me had set my soul aglow.

Soul-mates re-united, bound by the ties of past, Through each and every age this perfect love will last.

So at our journey’s end and the time has come to part, An endless cord of love will link us heart to heart.

Sandra Spence (Daly)

CLEAR THE CLUTTER!

It’s time to sell, call today!

Garage sales are the talk of town!

Give your JUNK a new life!

Sell any single item dirt cheap!

Place your condolences online.

(Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

Friendly Frank says...

INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS ..............1-8 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS....9-57 TRAVEL .......................................61-76 CHILDREN ...................................80-98 EMPLOYMENT .........................102-198 BUSINESS SERVICES ...............203-387 PETS & LIVESTOCK .................453-483 MERCHANDISE FOR SALE........503-587 REAL ESTATE...........................603-969 RENTALS.................................703-757 AUTOMOTIVE...........................804-862 MARINE...................................902-920

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

Advertisers are reminded that provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, colour, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, age, and physical or mental disability, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

COPYRIGHT

A Memorial/Celebration of Life will be held at Nechako Community Church on Sunday, June 30, 2019 @ 2:00, with coffee to follow. In lieu of flowers donations to St. John Hospital’s Women’s Auxiliary or Ana and Danny Morosan (YWAM-Croatia) would be greatly appreciated.

Spotlight your business with our business builder packages Call today to reserve your spot, space is limited!

Employment Business Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

INDEX IN BRIEF

DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION

The family of Sandra Spence (Daly) would like to thank the staff and doctors of St. John Hospital for the loving and thoughtful care they gave to our mom for the last year and a half of her life. A special thank-you to Dr. DeVos whom she really appreciated and felt truly listened to her and cared. She passed away peacefully June 10th with family at her side.

Showcase your hidden treasures.

Are You The Best at What You Do?

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

ON THE WEB:

(Relief) Fibre & Mill Services Supervisor Castlegar, BC

Career Opportunities Exciting leadership opportunities with Weyerhaeuser!

We are currently looking for an experienced Human Resources Manager and Sawmill Team Leaders to join our Grande Prairie Lumber mill. For more information please visit www.wy.com/careers

Education/Trade Schools APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Penny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certificate Program at Langara College in Vancouver. Application deadline June 30, 2019 Send applications to fbula@langara.ca.

Details at https:// langara.ca/ programs-and-courses/ programs/journalism/ scholarships.html

Help Wanted Bella Coola/Office Manager Required at Bella Coola Grizzly Tours and Adventure Resort Inc. On site accommodations provided at Resort and fair wages. www. bcgrizzlytours.com Country living at its finest.

Office Manager is responsible for answering e-mails, telephone, bookings & reservations, processing CC payments, meeting and greeting Guests, keeping office area tidy and some housekeeping. Excellent computer skills required.

Position available immediately. Please send cover letter and resume by e mail att: Leonard Ellis / Owner info@bcgrizzlytours.com

Mercer Celgar is North America’s newest and largest softwood kraft pulp mill, located in Castlegar, B.C. Mercer Celgar is part of Mercer International, which also owns and operates three world class softwood mills and a sawmill in Germany. All mills continue to invest in their core assets and investigate new revenue streams in the emerging bio-economy to further improve their long term viability.

Presently we are seeking applications for the following position: (Relief) FIBRE & MILL SERVICES SUPERVISOR Opportunity exists immediately for a safety committed (Relief) Fibre & Mill Services Supervisor at our Castlegar facility to complement our Operations crews. We are an innovating team that is looking for creative people to work within our fibre handling team. Reporting to the Area Manager the F&MS Supervisor is responsible for the daily operations in our wood and material handling departments. This includes the safe operation and supervision of our chipping facilities, log yard and mobile equipment fleet. Knowledge of mobile equipment is an asset for this position. Previous experience in a supervisory role is a benefit for applicants as well.

The successful applicant will have the following abilities: t 4VQQPSU B 8PSME $MBTT 4BGFUZ 1SPHSBN t "CJMJUZ UP NBJOUBJO GPDVT PO TBGFUZ UISPVHIPVU BMM BDUJWJUJFT t $BQBCJMJUZ PG MFBEJOH EJWFSTF UFBNT PG QFPQMF t &YDFMMFOU WFSCBM BOE XSJUUFO DPNNVOJDBUJPO TLJMMT t 5IF BCJMJUZ UP XPSL XJUIJO 8PSE &YDFM 0VUMPPL BOE PUIFS PQFSBUJPOBM TPGUXBSF packages t #F BCMF UP PSHBOJ[F BOE QSJPSJUJ[F XPSL UBTLT t 5IJOL JOOPWBUJWFMZ BOE DSFBUJWFMZ This position will relieve for 2 distinct shift schedules: the first shift is a 12 hour dayshift on a 4 days on, 4 days off rotation; the second shift is a weekday, dayshift schedule. Scheduling will be determined with as much notice as possible, however the successful applicant must be able to sometimes adapt on relatively short notice. .FSDFS $FMHBS JT BO JOOPWBUJWF BOE QSPHSFTTJWF NJMM "T B MFBSOJOH PSHBOJ[BUJPO we are working together to be the best for our communities, our environment and our future. We offer unparalleled career development and challenging work opportunities, a collegial and stable work environment and an incomparable family and recreational oriented life style along with competitive pay, benefits and pension package.

For the discerning professional looking to make a difference, this is a rare opportunity! If you want to live in one of the most desirable places in Canada, then you will want to know more about Mercer Celgar!

Go to www.mercerint.com. Want to know about Castlegar & the Kootenays?

Go to www.castlegar.com When applying for this position please quote reference id: 2019-04.

Think you can make a difference? Then send your resume to: HR@celgar.com by June 30, 2019 We thank all applicants.

Only those whose candidacy best suits our needs will be contacted.

Working together to be the best for our communities, our environment… our future!

A24 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

A24 www.ominecaexpress.com

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 Omineca Express

Merchandise for Sale

Real Estate

Building Supplies

For Sale By Owner

STEEL BUILDING SALE...”MEGA MADNESS SALE - BIG CRAZY DEALS ON ALL BUILDINGS!”20X21 $5,868. 25X27 $6,629.

30X31 $8,886. 32X35 $9,286. 35X35 $12,576.

One End Wall Included.

Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036. www.pioneersteel.ca

Vanderhoof Serviced town lot for sale located at 352 Spruce Street Lot needs fill and has irregular boundaries $8000 or best offer Serious enquires only, 250-567-8110 after 6:00pm

WITH BLACK PRESS STARTS HERE

Misc. for Sale

Legal Notices

Black Press Media is the leading North American local news champion with operations across British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon, Washington State, California, Alaska and Hawaii.

Over 2,000 talented employees work with us delivering unique community news and information across a full suite of digital and traditional media channels. We value diverse viewpoints, new ways of thinking and a collaborative approach to delivering results.

TIMBER FRAME AND LOG BUILDING SUMMER SALE. Seasoned Douglas Fir, direct to you savings.

Delivery/assembly available. Island School of Building Arts. Details: www.isba.ca/store or call 250.247.8922

CRIMINAL RECORD?

MULTI-MEDIA SALES CONSULTANT (TERRACE)

Merchandise for Sale

Merchandise for Sale

Heavy Duty Machinery

Heavy Duty Machinery

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

YOUR NEW CAREER

Do you enjoy working in a fast paced environment? Are you motivated to earn extra money? The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, well organized, self-motivated, determined and enjoy working in a deadline driven environment. Your customer service skills will be exceptional and you must be comfortable with telephone sales. You will service inbound and outbound calls to businesses to advertise in our print and digital platforms. The ideal candidate is punctual, a fast learner and looking to increase his/her income.

APPLY today WITH YOUR RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO CAREERS@BLACKPRESS.CA , BE SURE TO REFERENCE THE JOB AND LOCATION YOU’RE APPLYING FOR. PLEASE NOTE ONLY SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED.

For more information on these vacancies and other regions throughout BC visit: www.blackpress.ca/careers

Employment

Services

Help Wanted

Medical Health

Planerman Planerman required for

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know Have any of these Conditions? ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money.

CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-(800)-211-3550 OR Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to (604) 739-5600 For Your FREE benefits package.

North Okanagan Sawmill.

We offer competitive wages and benefit package as well as the opportunity to live in one of BC’s most beautiful areas.

Please email resume: netimber@junction.net

Services Financial Services GET BACK ON TRACK!

Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money?

We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify.

Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

Why suffer Employment/ Licensing loss? Travel/ Business opportunities?

Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge.

File Destruction.

Free Consultation 1-800-347-2540. accesslegalmjf.com

BURNS LAKE, BC

Forestry, Construction & All Attachments

• Machinery Sales • Brokering • Appraising • Transportation • Consignments • International Sales

We buy equipment and consider trades Wayne Giles: (250) 691-1650 Ashley Roney: (250) 845-9169 Check our website for details, pictures and prices of our current inventory:

www.majorequipsales.com

CONNECTING JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS

2 weeks $50.00

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.

IN YOUR

250-567-9258

ONLINE bcclassifieds@blackpress.ca IN PRINT 1.866.865.4460

...in your community, online and in print

Legal

Legal

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM WOODLOT LICENCE W1205 Please be advised that Nechako Woodlot Society is proposing to remove the private land from Woodlot Licence W1205 (approximately 55.6 hectares), located in the vicinity of Mapes School.

Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to Van Dolah Enterprises Inc., 2417A Burrard Avenue, PO Box 1555, Vanderhoof, BC by July 10, 2019.

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting: John Prestmo Van Dolah Enterprises Inc. 250 567 2775 jprestmo@vandolah.com

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

Legal Legal Notices

No. 1854847 PRINCE GEORGE REGISTRY IN THE SUPREME COURT OF BRITISH COLUMBIA BETWEEN:

MAKE YOUR POINTOF-SALE

1 x 1 Boxed Ad 3 Neighbouring papers

BCClassifieds.com

www.localwork.ca

Conveniently PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE

PAJAMAS

3 lines 3 Neighbouring papers $ 2 Weeks 25.00

Legal

MULTI-MEDIA JOURNALIST (QUESNEL)

The Quesnel Observer has an opening for a full-time, temporary position for a Multi-Media Journalist with a focus on a full range of community features, sports, arts and hard news. The successful applicant joining our 3 person newsroom, will play a key role in contributing to our website, bi-weekly print product and robust social media interaction with our viewers. Advanced video, social media and photography skills will be fundamental attributes, along with working knowledge of Indesign, Photoshop and iMovie.We are looking for an independent thinker who can work within deadlines, but who will also enjoy a team environment where we support one another to achieve goals.

PET SPECIALS

CARRIE LYNN BAYES PLAINTIFF

AND:

STEPHANIE AURORA SUTTON DEFENDANT ADVERTISEMENT

To: Stephanie Aurora Sutton TAKE NOTICE THAT on June 4, 2019 an order was made for service on you of a Notice of Civil Claim issued from the Prince George Registry of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in proceeding number 1854847 by way of this advertisement.

In the proceeding, the Plaintiff claims the following relief against you: a) General damages; b) Special damages; c) Future care costs; d) Future wage loss; e) Loss of housekeeping capacity; f) Costs; g) Interest pursuant to the Court Order Interest Act R.S.B.C. 1996, c.79; and h) Such further and other relief as this Honourable Court may deem just.

You must file a responding pleading/response to the Notice of Civil Claim within the period required under the Supreme Court Civil Rules failing which further proceedings, including judgment, may be taken against you without notice to you.

You may obtain, from the Prince George Registry, at 250 George Street, Prince George, BC, a copy of the Notice of Civil Claim and the order providing for service by this advertisement.

This advertisement is placed by the lawyer for the Plaintiff, Kristopher S.R. Henderson, HSJ Lawyers LLP whose address for service is #204, 1302 Seventh Avenue, Prince George, BC, V2L 3P1. Fax No. (250) 565-8001, or email: KHenderson@HSJlawyers.com

Omineca Express

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Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A25

FLESS 2019

Wallace Studios in Vanderhoof photo

Congratulations You’re on your way!

BURNS LAKE AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY 98 Francois Lake Drive, P.O. Box 448, Burns Lake, B.C. V0J 1E0 Phone: (250) 692-7565 Fax: (250) 692-7624 1-800-663-6133

For All Your Automotive, Industrial & Safety Wear Needs!!

SECOND LOCATION Highway 16, Fraser Lake Phone: (250) 699-8990 Fax: (250) 699-8988

onoring Hour Grads Congratulations on this milestone achievement, graduates.

We salute your hard work and dedication!

Village of Fraser Lake

Fraser Lake Elementary Secondary School Graduates Allen, Paige; Austad, Kyla; Conwright, Malcolm; Downey, Dylan; Ens, Alyssa; George, Jasmine; Hartman, Colton; Holmes, Rylie; Johnson, Arik; Joly, Temmra; Ketlo, Tahlia; Ketlo, Thomas; Lank, Trevor; Lapointe, Shaelene; Laramee, Jessy; LorangerSchallhorn, Dominique; Louis, Chantel; Lowen, Tamara; MacLeod, Reuben; Matthew, Hailey; McNichol, Taylor; Partaik, Vienna Reeves, Scott; Ritchey, Danica; Sam, Charlie; Shen, Joey; Steiner, Matthias; Stone, Alex; Sutherland, Henry; Vanwerkhoven, Kyla; Williams, Shawna; Williams, Tristan; Woolsey, Jillena; Wupori, Zaidyn.

A26 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

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F L E S S

School District No. 91

Celebrating Our Graduates HERE’S HOPING ALL OF YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE! Your hard work and dedication have taken you to this point, and we know you’ll continue to achieve great things in the future. Keep up the great work!

2 0 1 9

(NECHAKO LAKES)

153 E. Connaught St. Vanderhoof, BC

GRADUATION It’s just the beginning

CAP & GOWN

diploma SUCCESS

HATS OFF!

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS COMMENCEMENT GOOD believeLUCK

CLASS OF

2019 Congratulations!

From the Staff & Students of Fraser Lake Elem-Sec School

Wallace Studios of Vanderhoof photos

CLASS OF 2019! to the Graduating Class of Fraser Lake Elementary Secondary School

Well done to each and every one of you!

Best wishes for an exciting future filled with new beginnings.

John RUSTAD, MLA Nechako Lakes

Phone: 250-567-6820 1-877-964-5650 Fax: 250-567-6822 E-mail: John.Rustad.MLA@leg.bc.ca Website: www.JohnRustadMLA.bc.ca

For grad pictures of Grand March Ceremony and Group photo stop into Wallace Studios, look at the proof and place your order. Photos are ready to view.

156 Stewart Street West Vanderhoof

250-567-3979, 1-877-567-3979 toll free

Omineca Express

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Express

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 A27

NEWS

B.C. oil tanker ban squeaks through final vote in Senate Mia Rabson The Canadian Press

Legislation barring oil tankers from loading at ports on the northern coast of B.C. slipped over its final hurdle in the Senate Thursday, despite last-minute attempts by Conservative senators to convince their colleagues to kill it.

Bill C-48 is one of two government bills Conservatives in both

the House of Commons and the Senate say are kneecapping Alberta’s oil industry by limiting the movement of its oil. It passed the Senate by a vote of 49 to 46.

The tanker ban and Bill C-69, an overhaul of federal environmental assessments of major construction projects, have together become a flashpoint between the Liberals and Conservatives

enous communities, widens public participation in the review process and requires climate change to be considered when major national resource-exploitation and transportation projects are being evaluated. It applies to a wide range A aerial view of a tanker in Burrard Inlet in Burnaby, of projects including B.C. (THE CANADIAN PRESS Jonathan Hayward) interprovincial pipeover how Canada can the fossil-fuel sector. lines, highways, mines protect the environC-69 imposes more and power links. ment without driving requirements for conC-69 was set for its investment away from sulting affected Indig- final dance in the upper

chamber late Thursday evening. The Senate made more than 200 amendments to that bill earlier this month but the government accepted only 99 of them, mostly to do with reducing ministerial discretion to intervene in the review process.

The unelected Senate has generally bowed to the will of the elected House of Commons when there is a dispute between the two par-

liamentary chambers about legislation.

The bills, both expected to be fodder for Liberals and Conservatives on the campaign trail to this fall’s election, were on a long list of legislation the Senate pounded through as it prepared to rise for the summer.

The House of Commons called it quits earlier Thursday. The House closed after MPs delivered condolence

speeches following the death of Conservative MP Mark Warawa, forgoing the rest of the day’s planned activities out of respect for the veteran MP who died of cancer.

Bill C-48 imposes a moratorium on oil tankers north of Vancouver Island, but after the government accepted an amendment from the Senate, it will now undergo a mandatory review in five years.

Regulator seeks opinions on Trans Mountain pipeline process resumption The Canadian Press

The National Energy Board has issued a certificate for the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion after it was

approved by Ottawa on Tuesday but is seeking input from affected parties and the public on its resumption of regulatory processes.

The federal regulator

says it will accept public comments online or via fax or mail, for two weeks, until July 5, and has set a deadline for initial company comment of next Friday, with reply comments due on July 9.

It is proposing to continue processes that were underway and to rely on decisions and

orders issued before the Federal Court of Appeal struck down federal approval of the project last August, ”unless relevant circumstances have materially changed.”

On Wednesday, Ian Anderson, CEO of the Crown corporation building the Trans Mountain pipeline ex-

pansion, said shovels could be in the ground

by September and oil could be flowing in new segments of the pipeline between Edmonton and the West Coast by mid-2022.

But that timeline depends on the NEB being able to reinstate the record from the previous regulatory

proceedings so that the project can be brought back to the same state of construction readiness as last summer, he said, a process he expected to take some weeks.

The NEB says it wants to provide clarity on next steps for the project as efficiently as possible.

“Following the comment period, the NEB will decide how the regulatory processes will resume. Until that decision is made, Trans

Mountain cannot rely on previously issued decisions and orders to start or resume project construction,” it said in a statement.

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A28 Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Omineca Express

http://www.ominecaexpress.com

Brought to you by your MLA John Rustad

Pioneers Courageous Battles

Athletes Human Interest

Achieving

Serving the communities of...

Endako, Fraser Lake, Fort Fraser, Cluculz Lake, & Vanderhoof

Featuring the spirit of the local people

Kim Watt-Senner A

By Aman Parhar

s a community builder, Kim Watt-Senner has put in relentless effort to make Fraser Lake and the surrounding areas a better place to live in economically and socially.

Kim wears multiple hats — director at the regional district, Fraser Lake municipal councillor, retired RCMP officer and she also runs multiple businesses in the community.

One such business that truly encapsulates the thought of community building is an equine therapeutic centre.

Kim was diagnosed with PTSD over 15 years ago and at the time she was working for the RCMP. She said the family has always had horses but they didn’t really look at them as therapeutic.

“So this was way before anything to do with horse therapy was widely known. But we had horses and what I noticed is that I would go and spend time with our horses and I would feel better. Fast forward, several years later horse therapy became a thing and we put two and two together. But at the time I was still a serving member and I didn’t have the time to start a program,” Kim said.

About three years ago, Kim said she and her partner decided that they would move to Fraser Lake and the thought of starting a therapy program has always been in the back of her mind.

After she moved to Fraser Lake, Kim also took up political roles

with her involvement in the regional district and municipal politics.

“So in both those entities we talk a lot about economic diversity and we talk about how do small communities bring people into the communities not only to make money for a business but also to be putting funds into the area for spin-off businesses.”

“I ended up at an economic development seminar at the RDBN and it so happened that we were talking about the same thing. So I thought here we are. We are in

the perfect position. We have a ranch, five horses and I have been in remission with my PTSD for years, so I have a lot of first hand knowledge in regard to signs and symptoms whether it is diagnosed or un-diagnosed.”

After that, Kim said she spoke to her partner and they decided to open the therapeutic program ranch because she said they are passionate about it.

“We absolutely treaure our community. And we want to have lots of very interesting, very diverse businesses that are unique so when

people come to Fraser Lake they can go — ‘you know what? this is amazing, it is a very very small town, but my gosh do they have a lot to offer.”

When people are interacting with horses, our heart rate starts to mimmick the horse’s heart rate, Kim explained, adding horses are sensitive animals and their heart rate tends to be slower. This in turn leads to decompression. “And that’s the fascinating thing about horses and how they manipulate our physiological responses in a positive manner.”

Kim however does not have a degree in psychology, however her life experiences dealing with PTSD and being involved with horses helps. And if there are clients that she feels want to continue on their mental health journey, she has a social worker, clinical councillor and psychologist on staff.

To make the therapy session best suit everyone, Kim said they ask participants for third party consent to get in touch with either their GP, family doctor, therapist or psychiatrist. She said they talk to the health practitioner to understand whether equine therapy is right for the client, and if there are any triggers associated with the participant.

“So it could be a fear of open spaces. In that case then I need to mitigate the stressors that come with that particular condition. So once I get the okay from the medical practitioner, we do a meet and greet with the horses which is an hour long and we bring out all the horses.”

After that, depending on how comfortable the client is with a

horse, they put halters on the horse and then the participant gets to meet and spend time with each of the horses.

“What is neat is that the client just doesn’t select the horse, the horse also selects the client.”

Kim narrates a story of a massive horse they have, named Maximus, who she said is a gentle giant.

One of her clients is autistic and Maximus wrapped his neck around the body of the client and drew him in for a hug.

“The client was afraid of horses and that is our largest horse, but Maximus totally broke down those barriers and it was incredible to watch. And then the client giggled and laughed and it was so incredible to watch,” she said.

A person doesn’t need to be comfortable with horses to enroll in the program. Sometimes clients take over an hour to select the horse they want and that works fine too, Kim said.

“Some clients just want to touch the horse, some only want to groom, some want to participate further. It is about communication and about learning trust. Most people who come to the ranch have trust concerns and it is amazing to see the result of the interaction.”

The team also works with critical illness clients who may suffer from heart disease, cancer, leukemia and others. They have specialized anxiety blankets and mattresses to help with the process. So clients can lay on the bed while spending time with their equine partner, Kim said.

Meanwhile, Kim retired from the RCMP eight years ago and she said she still has friends who

are serving members in the force.

In her opinion, the RCMP could do more when it comes to combating mental health issues that officers and first responders face.

“Unfortunately a lot of the mental health issues that first responders face are swept under the rug because no one is comfortable talking about it.”

She said her life experiences have helped her relate to others who may be going through trauma, stress or even PTSD. “There is this barrier that is broken down in a good way. People see I am not broken, I am functioning and I run different businesses, wear a political hat. Does it mean everything is perfect? Or does it mean that I don’t have goof and bad days? Ofcourse I do. Everybody does.”

“How I describe it is that I can take a photo in black and white and then turn it into colour. You see the same picture, just the experience is different,” Kim said.

For people struggling with talking about mental illness, Kim said don’t be afraid to talk about it.

“Don’t shut yourself in a house, a room with the curtains drawn, because you are afraid of being judged. Stand tall. Be proud. Say, yes I am struggling and at some points in our life we are all there.

All of us. Nobody goes through this life unscathed.”

She said the therapeutic ranch has helped her with her PTSD. “I didn’t do it all on my own and what my psychologist has said for years.

You know that you are in remission when you are doing well and when you want to help others. It is a pretty pivotal thing in my life.”

John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes

Box 421 183 First Street, Vanderhoof Tel: 250-567-6820 Fax: 250-567-6822

Toll Free: 1-877-964-5650 Email: j.rustad.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca