vanderhoof omineca express, march 09, 2016

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E E xpress OMINECA $1.30 Inc. GST Vol. 38 No. 02 Serving Vanderhoof Fort Fraser Fraser Lake & Area www.ominecaexpress.com Wednesday, March 9, 2016 POLICE UPDATE P. 3 KICK START SPRING P. 7-9 Inside Publications Mail Contract # 40007840 Published by Black Press Ltd., 150 West Columbia Street, Vanderhoof, BC 1473 HWY 16 EAST www.westlineford.com TOLL FREE: 1-888-449-4029 250-567-4781 DL # 30423 2 2 B B L L O O W W O O U U T T 0 0 1 1 5 5 ALL REMAINING NEW 2015 MODEL YEAR MUST GO!! ALL REMAINING NEW 2015 MODEL YEAR MUST GO!! Daylight Saving Time starts Sunday, March 13, 2016, 2:00:00 AM clocks are turned forward 1 hour Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre Fundraising Society Community members in Vanderhoof and surrounding ar- eas have come together to demonstrate their overwhelming support for a local aquatic centre. In less than 16 months, the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre Fundraising Society has reached its goal of $500,000. The Society would like to say a huge thank you to com- munity members, families, local businesses, and organiza- tions in Vanderhoof and surrounding areas for their amaz- ing support throughout this fundraising campaign. Raising $500,000 in a community of 4,500 people is no small feat and the Society thanks everyone who made this possible. Donations came in from diverse businesses, surrounding communities, many of our area’s youngest residents, and countless individuals. The speed at which the community came together to raise $500,000 is truly remarkable and speaks to just how much Vanderhoof and the surrounding areas want this pool. The goal of $500,000 raised by the community was orig- inally set to demonstrate the level of support for this proj- ect. Now that the Society has reached its goal, the District of Vanderhoof will be using this clear support to approach larger companies and government bodies to request and se- cure the remaining $6 million for the aquatic centre. According to Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen, “We at Council are working very diligently on a number of initia- tives to secure the remaining six million dollars needed to build the pool. Our hope is to report back to the community as to where our efforts have led us in the next couple of months.” As for the fundraising committee, we have a few more fundraisers coming up. A silent auction was held on March 5, a Skate-a-thon is planned for March 12, and the second annual Ice Out Party will be held at the Vanderhoof Arena on May 7. Donations are still being accepted for the pool. Any additional money that is raised will go towards the to- tal funds required. All donations are tax deductible. Vanderhoof pool $500,000 goal reached in less than 16 months Leaping for the basket starts young at Viking Hoop Camp VIVIAN CHUI photo Observed by a youth coach, an elementary student practises a lay-up at the Viking Basketball Hoop Camp on March 2 in the Nechako Valley Secondary School’s gymnasium. See GIVING BACK on page 14.

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Page 1: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

EExpressO M I N E C A

$1.30 Inc. GSTVol. 38 No. 02

Serving Vanderhoof ● Fort Fraser ● Fraser Lake & Areawww.ominecaexpress.com Wednesday, March 9, 2016

POLICE UPDATE P. 3KICK START SPRING P. 7-9

● ●Inside

Publications Mail Contract # 40007840

Published by Black Press Ltd., 150 West Columbia Street, Vanderhoof, BC

1473 HWY 16 EAST www.westlineford.comTOLL FREE: 1-888-449-4029 250-567-4781 DL # 30423

22 BBLLOO WW OOUU TT001155ALL REMAINING NEW 2015 MODEL YEAR MUST GO!!ALL REMAINING NEW 2015 MODEL YEAR MUST GO!!

Daylight Saving Time startsSunday, March 13, 2016, 2:00:00 AM

clocks are turned forward 1 hour

Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre Fundraising Society

Community members in Vanderhoof and surrounding ar-eas have come together to demonstrate their overwhelming support for a local aquatic centre. In less than 16 months, the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre Fundraising Society has reached its goal of $500,000.

The Society would like to say a huge thank you to com-munity members, families, local businesses, and organiza-tions in Vanderhoof and surrounding areas for their amaz-ing support throughout this fundraising campaign. Raising $500,000 in a community of 4,500 people is no small feat and the Society thanks everyone who made this possible. Donations came in from diverse businesses, surrounding communities, many of our area’s youngest residents, and countless individuals.

The speed at which the community came together to raise $500,000 is truly remarkable and speaks to just how much Vanderhoof and the surrounding areas want this pool.

The goal of $500,000 raised by the community was orig-inally set to demonstrate the level of support for this proj-ect. Now that the Society has reached its goal, the District of Vanderhoof will be using this clear support to approach larger companies and government bodies to request and se-cure the remaining $6 million for the aquatic centre.

According to Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen, “We at Council are working very diligently on a number of initia-tives to secure the remaining six million dollars needed to build the pool. Our hope is to report back to the community as to where our efforts have led us in the next couple of months.”

As for the fundraising committee, we have a few more fundraisers coming up. A silent auction was held on March 5, a Skate-a-thon is planned for March 12, and the second annual Ice Out Party will be held at the Vanderhoof Arena on May 7. Donations are still being accepted for the pool. Any additional money that is raised will go towards the to-tal funds required. All donations are tax deductible.

Vanderhoof pool $500,000 goal reached in less than 16 months

Leaping for the basket starts young at Viking Hoop Camp

VIVIAN CHUI photo

Observed by a youth coach, an elementary student practises a lay-up at the Viking Basketball Hoop Camp on March 2 in the Nechako Valley Secondary School’s gymnasium. See GIVING BACK on page 14.

Page 2: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA2 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

Invites you to travel through time!

Nechako Figure Skating Club

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The Hospital Television Fund would like to express our gratitude for the ongoing support we have received from generous businesses in our community. Specifi cally, we would like to thank L&M Lumber, Premium Pellet, and Valley Diesel for their contributions. Through their generosity we are able to continue to offer our services to patients, and and make much needed repairs to our system, so that we can provide better quality.

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Vivian ChuiOmineca Express

Transportation, communication, and senior housing were the three top community concerns identifi ed by Fraser Lake residents last week.

Nearly 30 community members and leaders at-tended the federal infrastructure town hall meet-ing hosted by Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Nathan Cullen, Mayor Dwayne Lindstrom of Fraser Lake, and Director Mark Parker from the Regional Dis-trict of Bulkley-Nechako at the local Royal Cana-dian Legion branch on Mar. 1.

Local and inter-community transportation, though traditionally driven by provincial govern-ment, is where some residents would like federal funds to help fi ll current gaps.

Suggestions included a local prescheduled shuttle within town, as well as regular transpor-tation between Prince Rupert and Prince George.

Residents said that improved options will fa-cilitate senior transporation to Prince George for medical appointments, discourage hitchhiking. as well as provide a safe alternative for drivers trav-elling between cities on Highway 16 for work dur-ing winter.

“It’s like a smorgasbord for serial killers,” one resident said, while another referred to the snowy conditions of winter driving in the region. “I’m scared to drive on Highway 16 during winter time, even when you have the means and ability to trav-el.”

On communication, some residents would like better rural access — cell service is limited in Francois Lake area — as well as a faster Internet connection that will allow Fraser Lake to attract technology businesses and young people to the region.

A paramedic, involving with local seniors’ ini-tiatives, raised the issue of senior housing as part of the dialogue on job creation and resident reten-tion.

While palliative care is missing in Fraser Lake, housing for seniors can encourage families to stay in the community, rather than move to others with more resources, one resident said.

Referring to a recent report on the aging pris-on population of Canada, one resident suggested building a prison in Fraser Lake, taking advantage of available real estate in the area.

Other projects discussed during the meeting included waste treatment, an elevator to improve access at the community centre, as well as support for local arts and businesses through grants and summer students.

As the seventh out of eight town hall meetings in the region this season, Fraser Lake’s top three identifi ed concerns were echoed by residents in other towns as well — with lack of housing stock a concern for non-seniors as well, Cullen said.

Though the provincial government is currently working with local governments on transportation strategies for Highway 16, there’s a clear role for the federal government as well, he said.

“We just don’t want to see people going miss-ing anymore,” Cullen said. “This is a straight basic need.”

For Margaret Welowski, who lived in Fraser Lake for 50 years and attended the event with other participants as group, it was her fi rst-time attendance to a town hall meeting.

“I just never came,” Welowski said. “I let the younger ones work at it.”

The main priority for her is transportation, as she does not drive, she said.

For Jesii Gammie, who bought property and moved to Fraser Lake with her husband three years ago, it’s also her fi rst time participating in the government-hosted community discussion.

“I want to get out there and learn about the community,” Gammie said. “[The meeting] was very informative, and I talked to people I haven’t met in the three years I’ve been here.”

Her top priorities for Fraser Lake are transpor-tation and waste management.

“I want to be able to use the lake in 20 years,” she said.

She would like to encourage more of the younger population to get involved with the com-munity as well. “There’s not enough young people voting and paying attention to things that matter,” Gammie said.

FL residents’ priorities for gov’t funds: transport, Internet, house

OMINECA EXPRESS fi le photo

More transportation options through Highway 16 will encourage safety all season, residents say.

Page 3: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A3Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

NEWSExpressINSIDE

NEWSthe

PRE-REGISTRATION FOR KINDERGARTENFRENCH IMMERSION

Pre-registration for children who will be entering French Immersion Kindergarten at W.L. McLeod Elementary School in September 2016 will take place on March 21 – 24, 2016 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Parents requiring information regarding French Immersion should contact Ms. Libby Hart, Principal of W.L. McLeod Elementary School, at (250) 567-2267.

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS:1. Students entering Kindergarten in September 2016 must be ve (5) years old by December 31, 2016.2. Please bring the child(s) care card and birth certi cate.

COMMISSION SCOLAIRE NO. 91(VALLEE DU NECHAKO LAKES)

PRE-INSCRIPTION DE L’IMMERSIONFRANÇAISE

La pré-inscription pour l’entrée en classe maternelle (ou primaire) du programme d’immersion en français commencera le 21 - 24 mars, 2016, à l’école W.L. McLeod, pendant les heures de classes. (8h00 à 3h00)

Pour de plus amples renseignements, veuillez contacter:

Ms. Libby HartDirecteur de l’école W.L. McLeodTéléphone: (250) 567-2267

NOTE:1. La pré-inscription en maternelle (primaire 1) s’applique aux enfants qui auront 5 ans par le 31 décembre 20162. La carte d’assurance – maladie et le certi cate de naissance de l’enfant sont obligatoires pour l’inscription.

PRE-REGISTRATION FOR KINDERGARTEN AND GRADE 1

Pre-registration for children who will be entering Kin-dergarten and Grade 1 in September 2015 will take place March 21 – 24, 2016 at the times listed below.

NOTE: Students who will be entering Grade 1 in September 2016 and who are presently enrolled in Kindergarten need NOT register.

VANDERHOOF PRE-REGISTRATION TIME

W.L. McLeod Elementary 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. English

Ecole W.L. McLeod Elementary 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. French Immersion

Mapes Elementary 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.Evelyn Dickson Elementary 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Sinkut View Elementary 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. FRASER LAKEMouse Mountain Elementary 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

FORT ST. JAMESDavid Hoy Elementary 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS1. Kindergarten student must be ve (5) years old by December 31, 2016.2. Grade 1 students must be six (6) years old by December 31, 2016.3. An adult must accompany each child.4. Please bring the child(s) care card and birth certi cate. 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 STAFFING FOR THIS COMING SEPTEMBER, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU REG-ISTER YOUR CHILD FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR. IF YOU ARE UNSURE AS TO WHICH SCHOOL IS IN YOUR CATCHMENT AREA, PLEASE CONTACT THE NEAREST SCHOOL OR ADMINISTRATION OFFICE AT 250-567-2284.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 91 (NECHAKO LAKES)

DISCOURAGING COOKING WINE ABUSE

Sale of Brights 74 Sherry is now becoming limited in Vanderhoof.

During a council-to-council meeting earlier this month, the Dis-trict of Vanderhoof and the Saik’uz First Nation came together to address alcohol abuse in the region and approached the Vanderhoof’s RCMP for assistance.

As a health concern for all, including youth who may be buy-ing into the product, the councils received requests from the com-munity to have the liquor removed from sales in Vanderhoof.

A 750-millilitre bottle of 74 Sherry, with 20 per cent of alcohol content, is currently priced at $5.99 at BC Liquor Stores online.

Community members with ques-tions and concerns on the product’s removal can contact the local RCMP detachment.

MARCH 3 HIGHWAY BLOCKAGE

At 5:45 a.m. on March 3, a collision occurred on Highway 16 within the construction zone by Degal Pit Road led to limited traffi c for the rest of the day in the area east of Vanderhoof.

The RCMP believes that, based on physical evidence on scene, an eastbound pickup travelled too quickly at the time, crossing over the central line and turning side-ways to the road as its driver lost control.

The driver of a westbound trailer truck, which was pulling a 1203 gasohol fuel tank and travelling slowly due to conditions, saw the impending collision and aimed for the pickup’s back portion to avoid the driver.

The pickup lost its box, one of the trailer truck’s tires was punc-tured, and both vehicles went into the ravine north of the highway.

A Commercial Vehicle Safety

and Enforcement inspector nearby contacted emergency services for fi re and hazardous materials, and traffi c was limited to single-lane alternating directions until 11:00 p.m. to remove hazardous material and address leakages that were later observed.

Investigation on the incident’s cause continues and the drivers, suffering minor injuries, were taken to the hospital for precaution.

NEW PROGRAM AGAINST SHOPLIFTING

Along with other communities in the North District Vanderhoof’s RCMP is starting a new program to discourage shoplifting in town this year.

Based on results from the North District Crime Analyst, shoplifting in Vanderhoof during 2015’s last quarter — October to December — increased slightly from the same time period in 2014.

Working with local businesses, the police is establishing a better security profi le for shops through measures such as surveillance video improvements, shop environment design, and other light security pro-cedures, said Sgt. Svend Nielsen.

He added that although the marginal increase of shoplifting in Vanderhoof may not be a big issue for the community, the security improvements for shops will help address other con-cerns in the downtown core, such as intoxica-tion and mischief complaints.

- with fi les from

Sgt. Svend Nielsen,

Vanderhoof RCMP

Police Update

A time for parents/caregivers to come together and support one another while sharing positive experi-ences around town and through a variety of activities bonding with their preschoolers.

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

March 9Banner CraftAutumn Services

March 16Hula Hooping & MusicArena Complex (upstairs)

March 23Music/ConcertHUB & Gym (Mouse Mountain School)

Fraser LakeTots Around Town

New B.C. reward pro-gram, app for healthy lifestyle

VICTORIA - Brit-ish Columbia residents who are making an effort to lead healthier lifestyles can now be rewarded with loyalty points such asAero-plan, PetroPoints, Scene and MoreRe-wards, thanks to an innovative new mobile app called Carrot Rewards.

Users across the province who sign up for Carrot Rewards will be able to earn their choice of leading, brand-name loyalty points for completing activities centred on making healthier life-style choices. This can include anything from completing a health profi le, to participating in learning activities and quizzes, and in lat-er phases will include activities like going to the gym, visiting a fl u clinic, or buying pro-duce from the grocery store. The app is also designed to link up with wearable devices in later stages to track and reward healthy behaviour: http://www.carrotrewards.ca

As part of a focus on improving digital services, ICBC has launched a new online tool which allows customers to now request their driving records on-line and immediately receive them by email, for free, through icbc.com/drivingrecords.

Driving abstracts provide details of a person’s basic driving history, including tickets and offences for the last fi ve years. Customers can also access insurance and claims history records that detail a driver’s insurance coverage and claims history, for up to 20 years.

Commercial drivers can also use the online sys-tem to ask for a commercial driving record called a National Safety Code abstract. That abstract is a fi ve-year record of a driver’s history and any com-mercial vehicle-related convictions.

Now available online: ICBC

driving records

Students and the local RCMP prepare for the town-wide fl ash mob against bullying for Pink Shirt Day on Feb. 24.

VIVIAN CHUI photo

Page 4: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA4 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

ANNOUNCEMENT

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CNC 2016/17 BUDGET CONSULTATION SESSIONSCNC is undertaking its annual budget consultation process. The consultation provides anopportunity for community members to present their views on the 2016/17 College Budget.Presentations are limited to 10 minutes and written presentations will also be accepted.

Date: Thursday, March 17, 2016 Time(s): 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Place: Room 1-306, Prince George Campus

Registration for the consultation meetings opens 8:30 a.m. on Monday, March 7, 2016,closing Tuesday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m. To register, email [email protected]; include thepresenter, organization, name(s), contact information, and specify whether you wish topresent during the afternoon or evening session. More information is available atwww.cnc.bc.ca under “Budget” tab.

EVERYONE IS INVITED

College of New CaledoniaB R I T I S H C O L U M B I A • C A N A D A • W W W . C N C . B C . C A

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PRINCE GEORGE – Forest sector research and development is getting a boost with the help of Northern Development Initiative Trust’s new Forest Innovation Fund. The fund will provide up to $1 million in grants over a two-year period for small and medium-sized companies and com-munity forests engaged in resource extraction, resource processing and supply chain activities related to the forest sector.

The Forest Innovation Fund provides up to 50% to a maximum of $50,000 in grant funding per project to support research and development, innovative technologies, and new or improved

products to optimize the fi bre supply in central and northern B.C. The fund is part of the Trust’s ongoing response to the Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic, which is anticipated to result in fi bre supply reductions in the coming years that will impact jobs and communities in pine beetle af-fected areas.

Eligible companies must be privately owned, have less than 500 employees, annual revenue of less than $100 million and be based within the Trust’s service area.communities they call home.

Distracted driving is responsible for ap-proximately one quarter of all fatal crashes in B.C. Most drivers understand that using their phone increases their risk of crashing yet many still do it. That’s why ICBC, po-lice and the B.C. government are teaming up to launch a month-long distracted driv-ing campaign in March.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety*, the odds of crash-ing increase by fi ve times when using your

phone, whether dialing, texting, reading or using social media.

Police are ramping up their enforcement of distracted driving across the province. Cell Watch volunteers will be roadside, re-minding drivers to leave their phones alone. And ICBC road safety coordinators will be attending community events with a driving simulator the public can try.

You can take a stand against distracted driving and encourage others to do the

same by picking up a free decal to display on your vehicle at ICBC driver licensing offi ces and participating Autoplan broker offi ces.

The campaign features radio advertising and digital advertising which will appear online as well as in restaurants and bars.

“B.C. drivers know it’s against the law, but far too many still make excuses for their behaviour, and put themselves and others at risk by using their phone while driving,”

said Chief Constable Neil Dubord, Chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Po-lice Traffi c Safety Committee. “That’s why we’re cracking down on those who cannot police themselves. Even when you’re at a red light or in slow moving traffi c, you’re still in control of a vehicle and the law still applies.”

Every year, on average, 15 people are killed in distracted driving-related crashes in the North Central region.

March campaign against distracted driving

New forestry innovation fund to small businesses

Page 5: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A5Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Easter Colouring Contest

Sponsored by the following businesses....

One Grand Prize winner in each age group.

EVERY KID’S ENTRY WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE

Name ______________________________________________________

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Ages 4-6 Ages 7-9 Ages 10-12

ENTRY FORM

Drop off at Omineca Express, 150 W. Columbia St , Vanderhoof

CONTESTANTS MUST BRING ENTRY IN PERSON TO COLLECT THEIR ENTRY PRIZE AND HAVE THEIR PHOTOS TAKEN.

Deadline for entries 5pm, March 30, 2016

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vhfcoopTwitter: @VanderhoofCoop

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Food, Hardware, Lumber, Agro, Fuel Sales

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P.O. BOX 100 - Vanderhoof, B.C. V0J 3A0

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Page 6: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

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

Phone: 250-567-9258Fax: 250-567-2070

- B.C. Press Council

Subscriptions - (per year GST incl.) Local - $43.50

Seniors - $37.30 Outside Area - $60.15 Copyright Canada No. 22 Serial No. 132934

The Omineca Express is published every Wednesdayin Vanderhoof by Black Press Ltd.

Publisher:Pam [email protected]

Editor/Reporter:Vivian [email protected]

Offi ce:Denise Smithoffi [email protected]

Creative Services:Julia [email protected]

The Omineca Express is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory 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, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9.

For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA6 www.ominecaexpress.com

OPINIONExpress

We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund

of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

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

Tom FletcherBlack Press

One of the enduring legacies of Pierre Trudeau’s time as prime minister is the legal supremacy of the individual, as articulated in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

We are seeing this played out with great-er force than ever today, by an activist high court that swatted aside Stephen Harper’s at-tempts to restrain it, and now orders a meek, politically correct Justin Trudeau government to do its bidding.

The Federal Court decreed last week that people have the right to grow their own “medical” marijuana. This ruling is unlikely

to be appealed, given that Trudeau the Younger is committed to legal-izing marijuana for everyone.

There are conditions that show measurable relief from marijuana products, such as glaucoma or the nausea and loss of appetite associat-ed with cancer treatments. But much of the so-called medical marijua-na industry is based on unsubstantiated claims about an inconsistent herbal remedy that hasn’t been studied much because it’s been illegal.

The Federal Court case involves four people from B.C., which boasts more than half of the contested medical marijuana growing li-cences issued across the country.

One of the petitioners suffers from a vaguely defi ned condition known as “chronic fatigue syndrome,” which led to a disability pen-sion from a federal civil service job at age 45. 

The judge cited no research to support the claim that sitting around smoking dope all day relieves this condition. Indeed it defi es common sense that a set of symptoms with no identifi ed cause, which might be confused with what we used to call laziness, would be alleviated by chronic consumption of a drug that promotes eating chips and watch-ing TV.

But we peasants aren’t supposed to question our monarchs, es-pecially those in ermine-trimmed red robes at the Supreme Court of Canada.

That court has decreed that our charter, which in Section 7 protects the “right to life, liberty and security of the person,” includes a right to have a doctor’s help to commit suicide. Euthanasia has been re-branded as “assisted dying” by all the most “progressive” countries, and Canada has been given a fi rm deadline to join the club.

(Meanwhile, the term “right to life” is all but banned from univer-sity campuses, to minimize the risk of a coarse literal interpretation that it means, you know, a right to life.)

A Liberal-dominated committee of MPs and senators has recom-mended full-throttle implementation, not restricted to terminal illness

Bowing to the power of judges

Canadian Federation of Independent

Business

Vancouver – The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is calling for an end to the unfair and costly “bridge benefi t” perk – a little known incentive for govern-ment workers who re-tire early.

When workers in the private sector choose to take CPP/QPP early, they receive a lower benefi t for the rest of their lives. For most public sector workers, however, the bridge benefi t essentially ensures that they receive their full CPP/QPP benefi ts even if they retire well before age 65.

“Government workers already enjoy much more generous pension benefi ts than most Canadians could dream of,” said Dan Kelly, CFIB president. “Asking taxpayers to give even more so government workers can get those rich benefi ts sooner is, frankly, complete-ly unfair.”

The bridge benefi t varies across public sector pen-sion plans and can benefi t a typical government worker an amount in the range of $7,500 to $8,800 in 2015. In

2010-2011, about 55,000 federal civil servants received the perk at a total cost of more than $385 million to taxpayers. “With massive defi cits ahead for most prov-inces and the federal government, making changes to this entitlement for the future could provide meaningful fi scal relief,” Kelly added.

More than 80 per cent of public sector retirees who left the workforce between 2007-2011 did so before age 65, compared to 60 per cent of private sector retir-ees, and 47 per cent of self-employed.

“It’s costing British Columbians a lot of money to allow public sector workers to retire earlier than those in the private sector,” said Richard Truscott, Vice-Presi-dent, BC and Alberta. “The BC government should take a stand and ensure that all workers are treated equally.”

Stop paying government workers to retire early

and including mental conditions such as depression and dementia. The majority suggested even “ma-ture minors” should have this new right.

The politicians support allow-ing doctors to opt out of cases they won’t condone, as long as they pro-vide a referral to another doctor.

In Belgium, one of the pioneers of this brave new world, most of the growing number of euthanasia pa-tients have had cancer. But as The

New Yorker  magazine reported in a ground-breaking article last sum-mer, others have been euthanized because of autism, anorexia, partial paralysis, blindness with deafness, manic-depression and yes, chronic fatigue syndrome.

B.C. Health Minister Terry Lake expressed the hope that Canada ends up with a consistent policy on doctor-assisted suicide, rather than a provincial patchwork.

The closest Lake came to po-

litically incorrect criticism was to caution that “deep discussion” is needed around the court’s notion of a “competent minor,” someone not yet entrusted with the vote or access to a liquor store.

Three dissenting Conservative MPs went so far as to say the rec-ommendations don’t adequately protect seniors who might be co-erced into checking out and pass-ing on their estates. How old-fash-ioned.

Page 7: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A7Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Buying locally is a great way for consumers to fi nd the products and services they’re looking for and help their local economy along the way. The small businesses in Vanderhoof and surrounding area may be owned by your next door neighbor, who relies on his or her fellow townspeople to keep the business going strong.

Buying locally is not only benefi cial for local business owners, but buying locally benefi ts consumers and members of the community in a number of ways.

* Buying locally creates jobs. The number of unemployed men and women has gradually declined in recent years, but those fi gures are still high in many communities. Buying locally creates jobs in your community, potentially creating a job for you or a friend or family member.

* Buying locally helps the environment. Buying within your community reduces the amount of fuel you’re likely to use for a weekend shopping trip while also reducing pollution. In addition, many local store owners use local materials and ingredients, reducing the

amount of fuel consumed to get products into the store.

* Buying locally creates a more closely knit community. Juggling a career and a family can make it hard for men and women to get to know their neighbors and other members of their community. Buying locally is an opportunity to strengthen that bond with your neighbors, creating a close knit community in which residents may feel safer and more comfortable.

* Buying locally is more convenient. Convenience is paramount to many consumers, and buying locally saves both time and money. Driving to a faraway mall or shopping center or paying costly online shipping fees is not nearly as quick or convenient as shopping within your community, where you can purchase and take home items on the same day without using a full tank of gas or paying for shipping.

* Buying locally benefi ts your local

economy. A study found that of every $100 spent at local businesses, $68 remained in the local economy, while only $43 of every $100 spent at chain stores remained in the local economy. That’s a signifi cant boost to your local economy, and all it requires is shopping at local retailers.

The reasons for shopping locally are many. In addition to helping local business owners, consumers who shop locally are also helping themselves.

When you do your shopping right here in Vanderhoof, you’ll do more than fi nd great products. By supporting local businesses with your shopping dollars, you’re supporting our local economy as well, and that’s good for everyone.

You can’t beat the convenience of shopping right here in town. Plus, you’ll enjoy the friendly, personalized service of merchants who truly appreciate your business. So this year check out the merchandise offerings right here at home – you’ll be glad you did!

Shop Local

Contract Hauling Contract Hauling

Aggregate Supply and Placement Aggregate Supply and Placement

Road Construction Road Construction

Utility Installation and Coordination Utility Installation and Coordination

Site Preparation Site Preparation

Subdivision Development Subdivision Development

Foundations Foundations

Demolition and Removal Demolition and Removal

Heavy Haul Lowbed Heavy Haul Lowbed

[email protected]: 250-567-6880

Fax: 250-567-6882889 Highway 16 West, Vanderhoof

Book your hair appointment with Nickie, Tracey, Chelsey,

Pam, Montana or Karen

250-567-4559

book your gel nails with leanne

250-570-1555

Co-op Mall, 188 Stewart St E.

Shear MadnessShear MadnessHair SalonHair Salon

The many benefi ts of buying locally

Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!

Kick StartKick Start SpringSpringVanderhoof has a variety of goods and services available from our local vendors and businesses.

Page 8: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA8 www.ominecaexpress.com

www.facebook.com/vhfcoop

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VANDERHOOF and DISTRICTS CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

188 E Stewart St, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0

250-567-4414

ROCHESTER CATALOGUES AVAILABLE NOW, BOOK YOUR BIRDS NOW, AND

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BIRDS HEALTHY AND HAPPY.

Star Wars shirt $5.00 off

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DVD & salty snack.

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Come in and check out many instore specials on laminate and ceramic tiles.

Our new Flooring department specialist, Matt will be happy to assist you.

C-STORE:Dentyne Star Wars bottles, reg 4.29 ..$2.00Selfi e stick, reg $12.99 ....................... $6.00Snow Guides Traction Aides, reg $18.99 ........................................$10.00Beanie pink camo, reg $22.99 ..........$15.00Leather mitt & liner combo, reg $35.98 ........................................$20.00

PETROLEUM: Red Dot specials – selected items ....30% off

HOME CENTRE:

5 gallon pail of white semi-gloss interior latex paint.

Reg $ 162.99 ......................................Spec $112.96

All Husqvarna tractors and mowers on special

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Assorted colorful totes 15 Litre size,

reg $6.99 ..................................Blowout price $3.96

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One featured item, 12x12 pascal beige ceramic tiles

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March 11-24, 2016

Looking for 5 benefi ts of shop-ping locally? Mom and pop shops rely on the customers within their town to keep coming back on a daily or weekly basis. Big box stores have much more fi nancial stability than your local shops, so without a con-stant stream of revenue, you may see your favorite local store go out of business in no time.

1. Tax Base. One of the fi ve benefi ts of shopping locally is the increased tax base. By shopping lo-cally, more sales tax is being gener-ated by your favorite local stores, and that tax can be used within your community. Common uses for local sales tax include investments in in-frastructure, police and fi re depart-ments, libraries, and parks.

2. Jobs. Local shops employ lo-cal residents, which means there will be more job opportunities with-

in your community. The increase in jobs, one of the fi ve benefi ts of shop-ping locally, also has a domino ef-fect. Local stores will need to hire other local residents to help with ac-counting, create store signs, etc.

3. Product Diversity. Product diversity, one of the fi ve benefi ts of shopping locally, may not seem important at fi rst, but it is a win-win situation for local customers. Big box stores have national sales plans, and generally do not stock their stores with products that are sought after within a specifi c region. Local shops will need to stock their stores with products that their local customers will want, so if you have many local shops within your community, there will be a much broader range of product choices.

4. Competition. Competition of

local shops is also one of the most important fi ve benefi ts of shopping locally. Big box stores often drive mom and pop shops out of business, which means there is no competi-tion. With no competition, the big box stores can charge higher prices. By having a multitude of local stores within your community, all of the stores will need to keep their prices competitive in order to gain your business.

5. Community Well Being. The fi nal benefi t on our list of the fi ve benefi ts of shopping locally is com-munity well being. By shopping at local shops, you will most likely run into your friends and family more often, which helps unite the commu-nity together as a whole. Local busi-ness owners are also more likely to donate more to local causes than big box stores are.

5 important benefi ts for shopping local

Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!

Kick StartKick Start SpringSpringVanderhoof has a variety of goods and services available from our local vendors and businesses.

Page 9: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A9Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

[email protected]

Twitter: FB_Boutique

2421 BurrardVanderhoof

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Lorraine will be at Autumn Services in Fraser Lake on the following Saturdays March 5, 12 and 19 April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 10am to 1pm.

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We realize it is not always possible to buy what you need locally and so merely ask you to Think Local FIRST!

1) Buy Local - Support yourself

Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned businesses, signifi cantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms -- continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community.

2) Support Community Groups

N o n - p r o f i t organizations receive an average 250% more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses.

3) Keep our Community Unique

Where we shop, where we eat and have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefi t. “When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace.” ~ Richard Moe, President, National Historic Preservation Trust

Where your shopping habits help shape your community!There are many

reasons for you and your neighbours to shop locally but I think that you will

nd that they all have to do with one thing - keeping your local business and

environment healthy, prosperous and

vibrant.

4) Reduce Environmental Impact

Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town or city centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

5) Create more good jobs

Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community, provide the most jobs to residents.

6) Get Better ServiceLocal businesses often

hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers.

7) Invest In CommunityLocal businesses are owned

by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future.

8) Put Your Taxes To Good Use

Local businesses in town centers require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more effi cient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community.

9) Buy What You Want, Not What Someone Wants You To Buy

A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader

range of product choices.

10) Encourage Local Prosperity

A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.

Think Local - Buy Local - Be Local

Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!Kick Start is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of what Vanderhoof has to offer!

Kick StartKick Start SpringSpringVanderhoof has a variety of goods and services available from our local vendors and businesses.

Page 10: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA10 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

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A Taste of India in the ‘hoof

Vivian ChuiOmineca Express

The vibrant colours and fl avours of India were brought to over 200 people in Vanderhoof’s Elks Lodge on Feb. 27 evening.

As a fundraiser for Nechako Valley Secondary students’ trip to the India, the event was comprised of a buffet of Indian cui-sine, a silent auction that included Indian-themed paintings by students, as well as a live dessert auc-tion emceed by Vander-hoof’s resident auctioneer Ken Threkheld.

Volunteers and elk heads alike were dressed in shimmering saris, and female participants were offered bindi, a jewel to be worn on the forehead.

Page 11: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A11Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

COMMUNITYExpress

CONGRATULATIONS!

See photos, videos, and results at BCGAMES.ORG

Thank you to the coaches, officials, volunteers, and families who support these growing champions.

59 athletes from the North West competed at the 2016 BC Winter Games bringing home 13 medals.

PRINCIPAL’s HONOUR ROLL (4.00 GPA)GRADE 7Harper Abbott, Connor Baumann, Amanda Bueckert, Ryan Carriere, Rena Daniel, Taedyn Jacobsen, Jazz Nielsen, Ethan Wheeler, Avaryne WiebeGRADE 8Adara Bryan, Skyler Fitzpatrick, Ethan Floris, Andrea Hartwig, Madisyn MacKinlay, Olivia Manojlovic, Gabriel McLain, Rachel Pagdin, Griffi n Thiessen, Brooke VandelaarGRADE 9Kostas Bach, Stephanie Brondo, Jordan Cranmer, Connor Ebert, Eshawn Johal, Seanna Kusler, Megan Loewen, Simon Nemethy, Emily Prestmo, George Prince, Logan Sewell, Co-hen Thiessen, Dalin WeaverGRADE 10Samuel Albertson, Eran Bach, Alaura Brooks, Jillian Pearson, Joanna Penner, Faith Snow, Madison Stier, Chelsey ZilerGRADE 11Megan Baher, Matthew Ebert, Kaimi Giesbrecht, Ra-yea Johnson, Destiny Johnston, Calvin Li, Kimberly McGregor, Beth Mushumanski, Zech Nightingale, Dylan Parent, Leah Pippy, Mya Rancier, Sidney Thies-sen, Ian WatneyGRADE 12Jordan Andres, Sydney Andres, Bradley Bieganski, Shery Jane Brondo, Annika Dauphinais, Abigale Del-isle, Sahej Dhak, Alison Eggleton, Lachlan Fantillo, Keishja Fawcett, Rebecca Federau, Sara McBride, Sara Montague, Sally O’Meara, Tahlea Perry, Kiah Persson, Taylor Philips, Saba Rancier, Eric Silver, Taylor Vassallo, Kris Williams

1st CLASS HONOUR ROLL (3.5 – 3.99 GPA)GRADE 7Faith Baker, Bayley Cail, Jorja Cranmer, Andrew Derksen, Brook Dowswell, Adriana Ens, Eileen Friesen, Jorden Hooper, Brody Johnson, Emma Kryzanowski, Jocelyn Miller, Payton Mueller, Nicole Nevidon, Megan O’Bee, Iara Pavon, Lachlan Peder-sen, Kassidy Penner, Lizzy Ponsford, Olivia Prestmo, Jaxson Schumann, Trista Teichroeb, Autumn Unger, Mark Watney, Kayden YoungGRADE 8Alexandra Aebischer, Franz Aebischer, Charis Bach, Megan Boon, Kalissa Brooks, Torin Chapman, Nicho-las Coburn, Hayley Fergusson, Juliana Hampson, Dylan Haslam, Meghan Heyd, Adrianne Hoglund, Sophie Hutchinson, Spencer Lewis, Nicole McBride, Nolan McCleary, Mikhaila Moritz, Lexi Persson, Alicia Quaw, LeMar Reed, Bridget Teichroeb, Noah Thomas, Elliott Tone, Patrick Vahi, Joshua van der Giessen, Weston Warkentin, Gracie Wiebe, Kyra WiebeGRADE 9Hannah Andres, Kennedy Andres, Mykenzie Albert-son, Gracie Combs, Cam Delisle, Tias James-Schnei-der, Coleson Jensen, Keisha Knox, Kayla Manky, Kennedy Miles, Addison Miller-Gauthier, Kayla Morin, Jakob Parent, Cassy Penner, Brooke Steffey, Hayley Stephen, Isabelle Turgeon, Zach WhitecottonGRADE 10 Kaden Abbott, Dan Altergot, Corbin Brown, Ryan Egli, Kaylan Fehr, Taylor Henke, Kaitlin Montgom-ery, Anikka Nielsen, Brooklynn Pearson, Kattie Sam, Sarah Sawatzky, Keira Schwartz, Jocelyn Stevens, Nigel Watney, Emily Wiebe, Nadia ZwickGRADE 11Anthony Briltz, Felicia Brooks, Caleb Derksen, Emily Eggleton, Kelson Fines, Isabella Hampson, Dylan Hansen-Martin, Mari Knox, Rylin Kusler, Jane Li, Ewan Miles, Kody Olson, Brittany Penner, Bianca Pit-tman, Brooklyn Read, Alyssa Wale, Quin Wall, Owen Wiens, Reed Wiens, Amber ZielkeGRADE 12Sydney Askeland, Madysen Blattner, Cody Derksen, Kent Fehr, Emma Floris, Hannah Fraser, Lane Hamp-son, Alicia Harder, Paris James, Matteo Koehmstedt, Paige Loewen, Ryshel McKee, Markas Nielsen, Shelby Park, Kelseigh Sommerville, Catherine Stier, Graeme Thiessen, Kaitlyn Verduzco, Taylor West-brook, Norma Jean Wiebe, Austin Zhang

2nd CLASS HONOUR ROLL (3.0 – 3.49 GPA)GRADE 7

Orin Albertson, Coleton Currie, Lauren Dyck, Calliy Henke, Meghan Hutchinson, Alexa Philips, Matthew Roberson, Wyatt Steffey, Jessi Stewart, Hyatt Verduzco, Carter Wiebe, Orin Wiebe, Noah Wiens, Declan WruthGRADE 8Brynli Albertson, Kaybra Dyck, Lizzy Ebbott, Jackson Has-sman, Tanner Lawson, Linnea Moutray, Keyta-Lee O’Meara, Colin Paterson, Talmage Rancier, Shakira Redcrow, Teagan Rempel, Kameron Shoesmith, Cale Toth, Jerica Young-GreeneGRADE 9Karson Albertson, Callie Bray, Alex Bruma, Alyssa Dowswell, Aiden Evenson, McKenna Friesen, Ethan Janzen, Kaylon McKee, Madison Patrick, Jonathan Read, Jai Sabbarwal, Brody Schumann, Keenan Thwaites, Kyle Wiebe, Jessie Yor-ston, Kierra ZachariasGRADE 10Kyler Boucher, Amy Friesen, Shae-Lynn Geernaert, Aaron

Janzen, Christian Kelemen, Kiara Lobelle, Liam Moore, Clay-ton Neufeld, Mathieu Pyy, David Sawatzky, Nolan Stevenson, Nic Teichroeb, Georgia Verduzco, Nicholas WarkentinGRADE 11Seth Chapman, Mikoda de Baat, Brooklyn Gull, Joseph Hernandez, Bridian James-Schneider, Jane Kanary Tykenn Kilpatrick, Ethan Lank, Kaelan Lobelle, Dixon Loewen, Max Moritz, Shailyn Olin, Chrissie Roberts, Daulton Swanson, Kei-sha Thomas, Kevin Wan, Chevy White, Jared WiensGRADE 12Branson Albertson, Jessie Atkins, Shelby-Dawn Bowler, Cody Denis, Kassidy Dick, Justin Everett, Kirsten Forsberg, Kayla Freitas, Emily Froese, CJ Hermano, Caleb Jensen, Braden Kerr, Douw Klopper, Angela Kulchar, Gavin Lowen, Kylie Lupton, Olin Mazereeuw, Tyra Morin, Sean Myles, Brooke Neufeld, Jordan Ogier, Samantha Pratt, Jesse Raymond, Ni-cole Rodgers, Coy Smith, Tyler Stevenson, Riley Wiens

Nechako Valley Secondary Honour Roll Term 2, 2015/16

Page 12: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA12 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

Myna BaileyPresident of Northside Women’s Institute

A little bit of our history not to be forgotten, “for home and country,” celebrating Northside Women’s Institute’s 75th year from March 6, 1941.

I would like to tell you about the history of Othea Scott and the Children’s Hospital.

In 1921, Mrs. Scott wrote a letter to the sec-retary of the B.C. Women’s Institute and asked how she could get help for her little girl Othea, who was very ill with a tubercular spine. Mrs. McLachlan, who was the BCWI’s secretary, sent appeals out to 126 WI branches through-out the province to help raise funds to provide treatment for the child.

This was the starting point for the Funds for Crippled Children of B.C., which held its fi rst meeting in 1923. The purpose of the fund was for those crippled children who could only pay part of their expenses for treatment. The following year, King George V gave money to Canadian crippled children. B.C. used their share to start a building fund for a hospital in Vancouver. A clinic was opened in downtown Vancouver and patients were referred there from other hospitals. In 1925, the Women’s Institute Hospital Association for Crippled Children was incorporated.

Dr. Wace had a dream to start a solarium for children on Vancouver Island. This came true when he got in touch with three funds, which were raised in B.C. to help children. In 1927, the 30-bed Queen Alexandra Solarium for Crippled Children opened with Dr. Wace as superintendent and Othea Scott as one of the fi rst patients. That same year, the Crippled Children’s Hospital opened in Vancouver with a 16-bed capacity.

By 1930, WIs in B.C. established 132 practising public health nurses. In 1948, the offi cial name of the hospital became Children’s Hospital. By the time it celebrated its 30th year, 70,000 patients had been treated.

Shortly after the solarium opened, an out-break of spinal meningitis caused many tragic cases in need of help. By 1953, the original building at Mill Bay (Victoria) was worn out. All through the years, the Women’s Institutes around B.C. have continued their support to these institutions.

Northside Women’s Institute celebrates 75th

Locally:St. John HospitalRiverside PlaceJaws of LifeCrime WatchStewart Nechako ManorVanderhoof MuseumNeighbourLinkSanta’s AnonymousNechako View Seniors Common Room

Provincially and internationally:Samaritan’s PurseBC Children’s HospitalQueen Alexandra HospitalWater Wells for AfricaCollecting Stamps for B.C. Cancer InstitutePennies for Friendship for Associated Country Women of the World

Northside Women’s Institute’s contributions by the 1980s

Many projects and donations were made over the years to community and other needy places. Our motto is, “For home and country.”

Past resolutions from the Northside Women’s Institute

Whereas: Evening closing hours for the Lobby of the Post Offi ce is 7 p.m.Whereas: This early closing hour is inconvenient for those who rent postal boxes,THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; that the Post Offi ce Lobby remain open until 8 p.m.

Whereas: With the new location of the Co-op Shopping Centre and the new Arena, traffi c has increased considerably at the intersection of Burrard and Stewart Streets in the Village of Vanderhoof,THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a further study be conducted to review the necessity of a traffi c light on this busy intersection.Submitted by Northside W.I.

Page 13: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Vivian ChuiOmineca Express

This season, a Vanderhoof author pro-poses a self-empowering strategy based on the principles of quantum mechanics — the study of tiny particles — for scien-tists and non-scientists alike.

Along with fellow author Vicky Ford, who introduced her new children’s book series at the event, Jeremy Blattner launched on Feb. 17 evening his fi rst book Out of the Quantum Closet to over 50 friends and family at Vanderhoof Public Library.

“I believe we’re made of feelings…all of us are blobs of feelings in this reality,” Blattner said. “Each of us is free to choose how we feel.”

With audience volunteers whose emo-tional tags — including stress, love, and expectation — are exchanged with those of other volunteers as they encounter each other, Blattner demonstrated the idea that people are made of energy, in constant motion. In a room fi lled with people, for example, different vibes and feelings are transferred among people like mingling atoms and molecules, he explained.

“We are autonomous and connected at the same time,” Blattner said. “Feelings are made of energy, and our actions are motivated by how we feel.”

In another exercise, volunteers were given fl ashlights to either shine on their own or in one location.

“The fl ashlight represents your own light within,” he said. “Where you shine your energy refl ects your beliefs.”

Lights shone together can be likened to shared perspectives.

“When we focus our lights, we show cultural beliefs,” Blattner said. “The brighter the ob-ject, the stronger the ev-idence for your reality.

“There’s a lot of us looking at the refl ec-tion, but forgetting our inner light, if we shine autonomously.”

With stories to ex-plain various concepts of empowerment, the book is a 25-year quest written for three rea-sons, he explained.

“To feel better, to satisfy my curiosity, and to share with oth-

ers awesome stuff about how to re-duce and manage stress,” Blattner said. “All of this time and search-ing has led me to understand that it is a matter of believing that we each are more — more amazing then we may give ourselves credit.”

The proposed strategy is a way for people to han-dle daily stress by tapping into their own inner wisdom, he ex-plained.

“To get to that inner wisdom and to be-gin to minimize that personal stress load, can be simply a matter of learning how to take actions that balance our best sense of who we are and who we want to become — our best sense of self gained out of a lifestyle balance,” Blattner said.

Ford: six children’s books to come

Also at the evening book launch was Vicky Ford, Vanderhoof’s resident con-tributing author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul: Angels Among Us.

Introducing her latest project of chil-dren’s books including Does a Lizard Have a Gizzard and Today I Am a Mon-key, the inspiration of which came from

her grandson Max, Ford told the audience that she looks to launch six books at once in May this year.

Ford’s past work also includes a se-ries of two books titled From Bitchy To Bitchin’: 13 Tips to be Happy Now, as well as adult colouring books and colour-ing journals for self-refl ection.

Having moved to Vanderhoof when she was seven years old, Ford have always loved reading since she was little, she ex-plained.

“My mother told me, “Books off the ta-ble,’” Ford said. “I was the one who propped up a math textbook to hide a trashy novel.”

www.ominecaexpress.com A13Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

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Women’s Institute contributes to fi rst B.C. children’s hospitals

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150 West Columbia, Vanderhoof

Page 14: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA14 www.ominecaexpress.com

Vivian ChuiOmineca Express

Nechako Valley Secondary’s basketball camp for elementary students showcased multi-generations of the sport last week.

Over 40 kids from grades 3 to 7 fi lled the school’s gymnasium with swishes, squeaks, and cheer for the 29th Annual Viking Bas-ketball Hoop Camp after school from Feb. 29 to March 4.

It’s an opportunity for members of the NVSS senior boys basketball team to give back to the community, explained event or-ganizer Gary Simrose.

“The senior boys are the coaches,” he said, adding that they also acted as referees during game play. “They develop a rapport throughout the week with the team.”

Out of eight coaches at the week-long basketball camp — two for each team

— Tykenn Kilpatrick, Caleb Jensen, and Jonathan Mueller won the Most Promising Coach Award of the event, for their enthu-siasm and the most success in the improve-ment of their players.

All three coaches coached basketball camps in the past, with Jensen also winning the award last year.

For Jensen, it’s a fun opportunity to coach the children of those who previously coached him in basketball.

For Kilpatrick, it’s a chance to pass on his skills, and he enjoyed seeing how much the players progressed throughout the week.

For Mueller, with his siblings taking in the camp, he enjoyed watching them play and have fun in the game.

“Even from the fi rst day to second day, they just improved every day,” he said.

The week-long camp provides the young players of all levels an opportunity to learn

and practise the various aspects of the game each day, including game play, explained event organizer Gary Simrose.

“We teach them the value of warmup, ball handling, passing, shooting, defence, team play, rebounding, and the different stages of the game,” Simrose said. “We usually see quite an improvement through-out the week.

“On Friday, all the skills are evident at the competition.”

Players are separated into four teams, in which they followed a routine of warmup, general skills, and game play for the fi rst four days of the basketball camp. On Fri-day, a foul shot tournament took place, as well as consolation and championship games to determine each team’s fi nal rank-ing for the event.

For Treyken Stephen, 8, it’s his fi rst time playing basketball.

“I never played before, and I would like a chance to play,” Stephen said, adding that he enjoyed competing against another team, as well as playing defence.

For parent Allan Kryzanowski, whose son Lucas, Grade 3, expressed his interest in trying the sport for the fi rst time at the camp last week, it’s a well-organized event, allowing the players to build their con-fi dence, he said.“It’s a good thing for the children of the community,” Kryzanowski said. “To encourage them in participating in whatever they want.”

Lucas also tried soccer in the past, but not hockey or football, as they are rougher and more physical, he said.

“[Playing basketball] builds a lot of eye-hand coordination, cardio, and group ef-fort,” Kryzanowski said. “Keeps him off his electronics, but not too much ‘cause that’s the way of the future.”

Giving back to beginner hoop training and fun

VIVIAN CHUI photos

Tykenn Kilpatrick (from left), Jonathan Mueller, and Caleb Jensen won the Most Promising Coach Award at the 29th Annual Viking Basketball Hoop Camp last week.

Page 15: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A15Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Vanderhoof celebrating 90 yearsFort St. James celebrating 210 years

Bits n’ pieces...Nechako Chronicle 1928

School Division Two Report

The following is the monthly report for May of Division Two of the Van-derhoof Superior School, examined by Mrs Arthur M. Johnston, the teacher.

Grade Two: First, Jack Roberts; second, Mu-riel Mitchell; third, Alvin Stokes.

Grade Five: First, Stella Roberts; second, Garry Cook; third, Ruth Dock-ing.

Grade Six: First, Flor-ence Docking; second, Ei-leen Mitchell; third, Har-old Jones.

Grade Seven: First, Murray Page; second, Jean Docking; third: Jessie Em-bley.

***Fire at Hulatt

We regret to report that John W. Sackner lost his house on his Hulatt farm by fi re last Sunday. He was at the barn attending to the stock when he fi rst noticed fl ames coming from the upper part of the house. He rushed to the fl aming building and man-aged to get a few things out, although it was hope-less to save the house, and the principal household effects. We have been in-formed the loss was par-tially covered by insur-ance.

***Radio owners in this

District who have not yet paid their license are re-quested to do so without delay. The fee is one dol-lar.

***One of the fastest trips

made between Vancouver and Vanderhoof was made

last weekend. Mr. R.C. McCorkell left the south coast on the Friday night train for Ashcroft where he entered his Mclaughlin automobile early Saturday morning and arrived home last night (Sunday).

***Under the auspices of

the Nechako Farmer’s In-stitute the annual farmers’ picnic will be held next Thursday on the farm of William Smith, three miles north of Vanderhoof, well known as the Fred Borhav-en farm. Seeding is over and the prospects for an abundant harvest look un-usually bright, so the forth-coming picnic is a good time to take a holiday and make merry. The Vander-hoof Superior School will be closed for the occasion, and will be in session on Saturday to do Thursday’s work. Everyone is invited to attend this picnic.

***1951 Nechako Chronicle

The start of Kenney Dam

Bulldozers working on Nechako Dam Road link may reach within fi ve miles of the dam site today.

Marking the start of ac-tual construction work on a mighty hydro-electric proj-ect for the $500,000,000 Aluminum Company of Canada plant at Kitimat, two bulldozers owned by Campbell and Johnson, of Vanderhoof are today probing their way through light bushland south-west of Vanderhoof.

Latest reports are that the two machines may reach within fi ve miles of their goal today – site of a big dam on the low-er Nechako River which

The rush to the gold fieldsThe rush to the Omineca gold fi elds be-

gan in the spring of 1869.In July of 1870 coarse gold was found

in Germansen River. It was to become the heaviest producer in the area. A mining town known by the name of Artic City, Om-ineca City or Germansen soon appeared. It was a typical mining camp with about 20 log cabins and several make-shift stores and saloons. By that fall, a total of $55,000 in gold had been recovered from the near-by diggings. (Gold was worth much, much less than todays value).

The following summer, another strike was made south of Germansen on Manson River, prospectors streamed to the area and soon found that many of the nearby creeks

also carried goldThe sluices and rockers were soon op-

erating and the results were excellent. “Twelve Foot” Davis of Cariboo fame, mined 140 ounces in a single week, and many averaged 100 ounces per week.

At the height of the boom in 1871, the entire area was alive with an estimated 1,200 miners on the creeks. As in all min-ing camps, there were price gougers, and by the end of August of that year many of the miners left, unwilling to pay the exorbitant prices, and fearful of the coming Omineca winter. By winter only a handful of miners remained.

Germansen River produced almost $500,000 during the boom days. In 1987,

a 27 ounce nugget was found by the Craton Company.

Manson River, like Germansen and most of the placer creeks in the area, was re-nowned for its coarse gold.

Nuggets of two ounces were quite usual on most of the creeks before 1900, but, as in other gold rushes throughout history, some made it and some didn’t.

The lure of gold did not diminish with time as during the Great Depression, “Gold Fever” struck once again. Men once more ventured north to seek their fortunes. Sev-eral large companies employed many of the local people and supplies and equipment were freighted in to the north.

Times were hard during those days, but

the men were tough and willing. There were many hardships to be encountered, as men worked long and hard for the meagre pay they received, but in most cases they were glad for the chance to earn a few dollars.

Many were the men who walked every mile from Vanderhoof to Fort St. James, and then to Germansen, only to return with-out having found work.

Of all the mines in operation during the Depression years, one did remain operat-ing.

It was the old Germansen Ventures at Germansen, which had been taken over by George Loper in the late 30’s and had been run as a family operation for many years. It was operated as Northgain Minerals.

Nechako Chronicle 1977 The Vanderhoof Herald 1918

will turn westward the huge Eacha – Eutsuk, Tahtsa waterways system and impound millions of tons of water to create cheap power for the Kitimat producer.

The Vanderhoof-Nechako supply road follows the old main highway to Fort Fraser as far as Nulki Lake. From there the road veers south for fi ve miles to the Greer Valley road leading to the Hobson Ranch, by-passing a narrow, winding stretch of existing road through Bearhead hills. The road follows the Nechako River to the dam site.

Two years ago when the Alcan project was fi rst mooted, a bulldozer plazed a trail over the route now being followed, and little diffi culty should be experienced in construct-ing an all-year road for transporting the large quantity of equipment and material which will be required to build the Nechako dam.

***1956 Nechako Chronicle

CNC tests diesel motive power on Jasper-Prince Rupert run

Sample of the latest in railway

propulsion – the diesel locomotive – pulled through Vanderhoof early Wednesday morning. Canadian National Railways car-ried out a test run of its double-unit, 3,200 hp diesels on the Smithers Division, which includes Prince Geroge. It is reported that the CNR line servicing this town from both east and west will be completely dieselized by 1957. The locomotives left the yards here with 59 loaded cars.

Page 16: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA16 www.ominecaexpress.com

NEWSExpress

Team Force of Fire was one of the fi ve Vanderhoof groups placed top four within their division in the 29th Annual Prince George Iceman on Feb. 14.

First in the junior girls relay division, the team is composed of (from left) Nicole McBride (skate), Madisyn MacKinlay (swim), Bridget Borek (run),  Alexis Seely (run), as well as (missing from picture) Kyla Vanwerkhoven (ski) and Alyssa Koenig (run).

Team Scrats came fourth out of 27 teams in thejunior mixed cat-egory, and is consisted of all grade 5 students (aged 10/11) , except Cody who is 12 and in Grade 6: Ailis  McCleary (run) Niki MacKinlay (swim) Ryan Walker(run), Liam Tone (ski) Hayden Zacharias (skate) and Cody Vanwerkhoven (run).

Vanderhoof Ice Girls ran, swam,

skied for gold

Teck Northern Cup fi nal race

Page 17: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A17Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

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 includeschool activities. Basically people making a difference in our community. Send us your photoby e-mail ([email protected]) or drop it off at the Omineca Express (150 W. Columbia Street). Please provide a brief description accompanied with the photo.This week’s submission....

for volunteers. Help needed with outings, Serving meals, entertainment and visits for the residents. Please contact Marnie at 250 567 6290 for more information.

***VOLUNTEERS NEEDED....Would you like to become part of a team working together to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors? The Vanderhoof Stroke Recovery Group is looking for volunteers to join their team. Vanderhoof Stroke Recovery’s goal is to encourage stroke survivors to improve their lives through education, exercise, work groups, crafts, outings, etc. No special skills required; training and orientation are provided. Patience and caring understanding a necessity. Volunteers share responsibilities: assisting with activities, exercises, education, crafts, outings, fund raising. Time commitment: 3 hour meeting each Monday morning (excluding stat holidays), from September through mid-June.

Please contact Penny (250) 567-3966

[email protected]

***SENIORS CONNECTED... is looking for Seniors in need of Outreach & Transportation. We are also taking applications for Volunteers wanting to take part in the VSC Program. Vanderhoof Seniors Connected is a program dedicated to improving the quality of life for Seniors/Elders in our community through Companionship and Transportation Assistance. Phone 250-567-8587.For more information contact email at [email protected]

***CALLING ALL SENIORS... come and join us for carpet bowling, pool or snooker - Monday and Thursday afternoons at the Friendship Centre. We also have cards or bingo on Wednesday evenings. Music nights are also popular and these are the last Friday night of the month. Come and have some fun! Everybody welcome young or golden agers. Call Erling Clemmensen for more info: 250-567-9927.

***AL-ANON...Has your life been affected by someone elses drinking? The Al-Anon is for you! Meetings held on Mondays at 7pm in Community Room at Omineca Safe Home Society. For more information contact Gail at 567-4318.

***THE NORTHSIDE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE...meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Newcomers always welcome. For more information call Brenda, 250 567-9705.

***V’HOOF HOSPICE SOCIETY... Do you have a few hours a month to give? Are you sensitive to the special needs of those persons at the end stages of life? Want to be part of a great organization that makes a difference in our community, then we are looking for you. The V’hoof Hospice Society is a not-for profi t charity looking for new volunteer members. Our Society has a desire to help others. We are sensitive to the special needs of the dying patient and their families. We do not have personal agendas or “missions” to our Hospice work. Our main fundraising come in the form of donations to our Tree of Life. We are looking for new members to continue this great service. For more info call Valerie Pagdin at 250-567-6218 (weekdays), 250-567-3889 (evenings/weekends) or [email protected]

***THE FOOD BANK... is in serious need of food donations. Specifi cally the following is needed: “Chunky” soups and stews and canned milk.

***BADMINTON AT FLESS GYM... Every

Thursday at 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. come out and have some fun!

***ENDAKO HALL SOCIETY... meets every THIRD Wednesday of the month in the hall at 7:30pm.

***THE YELLOWHEAD DRAFT HORSE ASSOCIATION...is an organization for those interested in light and heavy horse driving. Monthly meetings every second Tuesday of the month. For more info contact: Jon 250-567-8484.

***NECHAKO QUILTERS GUILD... meets the third Tuesday of the month 9:30 am (Sept. - May) at Nechako View Seniors Common Room. Fran Sheeley 567-5254.

***THE FRASER QUILTERS GUILD... meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10am at the Fort Fraser Community Hall. Newcomers welcome.

***HOSPICE TREE OF LIFE... is to honour the living as well as to remember and honour those who have passed on. For more info call Valerie Pagdin at 250-567-6218 (weekdays), 250-567-3889 (evenings/weekends) or [email protected]

***THE FRASER LAKE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP... meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 12 noon in Autumn Services. For further information call Judy at 250-699-7763.

***VANDERHOOF 899 AIR CADET SQUADRON...Cadets will meet every TUESDAY night – 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the 480 Connaught St. at the Gospel Chapel. Anyone age 12 to 18 interested in the Cadet Program is welcome to attend. Any adult interested in assisting in anyway, please contact the offi cers at the 480 Connaught St. at the Gospel Chapel Tuesday night. For more information call: Capt. John Callaghan - 250-640-0218, Yvonne Melo - 250-690-7496 Evenings.

***AA MEETING... Wednesday, 8:00 p.m. United Church Hall. 567-8087 or 567-4588

***FRASER LAKE AA MEETINGS... Tues & Thurs 8:00 p.m. at St. Wilfred’s Church just across from the Village Hall.

***ST. JOHN HOSPITAL AUXILIARY SOCIETY... meets second Tuesday of the month (with the exception of July & August) at 7:00 p.m. in the hospital cafeteria. For further info contact Edna 567-9759 - New members welcome.

***VANDERHOOF

LIBRARY HOURSTuesday 10:00am to 5:00pm

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

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

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

FRASER LAKE LIBRARY HOURS

Sunday & Monday ClosedTuesday 10am - 4pm

Wednesday & Thursday12pm - 8pm

Friday 10am - 4pmSaturday 10am - 2pm

***NVSS BOTTLE DEPOT HOURS

Open Mon, Tues, Friday 11am-5pm

Saturday 10am-5 p.m.

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

***We are looking forward to the 38TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE PERFORMING ARTS!...Dates are March 7- 20, 2016  and will be held at Nechako Valley Secondary School. Monday March 7, Speech Arts. Friday March 11, Strings. Monday March 14- Thursday March 17, Piano. Please check the website at www.musicfestivalweb.com/nechako for program details

***DIVORCECARE... Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most diffi cult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.DivorceCare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable DivorceCare resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. You can get additional information from www.divorcecare.org.DivorceCare Group - Thursdays at 7 pm, Feb-April. 780 Loop Road in Vanderhoof (White House across from Nechako Christian Fellowship). Open to anyone who is experiencing the pain of separation or divorce. You can join the group at any time.For more information and to register, call or text Bob Clark 250.570.9203, June Clark 250.570.9338 or Dave Robinson 778.344.2292

***THE VANDERHOOF CHESS CLUB... Exercise your brain! All ages, from beginner to master, feel free to join the Vanderhoof Chess Club every Monday through the school year (except Statutory holidays) 6:30pm - 7:30pm at the NVSS library. It’s FREE. Play chess with friends and meet new people. Use our boards or bring your own. Our goals are to have fun playing chess and to host an Annual Vanderhoof Chess Tournament. For details please contact Jeff Obayashi at [email protected] or Jeremy Hara at NVSS to sign up for the chess club and/or tournament.

***ADULT BADMINTON...Thursdays at 8:30 pm. Bring your own racket, and wear indoor runners. More info call 250-567-9908.

***MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE... advocating for better services in our communities, such as: housing, counseling, education and job opportunities. Meetings held on the second Thursday of each month via – video conferencing from the communities of; Burns Lake, Fraser Lake, Granisle, Ft. St. James, Southside and Vanderhoof. 1:30 – 3:00. In Vanderhoof meetings are held in the boardroom at the hospital. Clients, family members and community partners are invited to attend. Your voice is IMPORTANT. For more info on the committee and it’s works contact: Heather @ 250-692-7500. Or your Mental Health Service Provider

***GIRL GUIDES...

Sparks meets 5-6pm Mondays @ United Church.

Brownies meets 6-7:30pmm Mondays @ United Church.

Girl Guides meets 6-7:30pm, Mondays at St. Josephs Gym.

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

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

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

***VANDERHOOF AIR CADETS... Meetings - Tues 6:30-9:30 at the Gospel Chapel For more information call: 250-640-0218 or 250-570-7496

***STUART NECHAKO MANOR...looking

Nechako NotesNechako Notes

The Canadian Classic in Fort St. James was held Feb. 26-28, 2016. Mushers from all over take part, even one from Germany.

Photo by Vivian Chui

VANDERHOOF’S VANDERHOOF’S FAITHFAITH

For more information or to joinVanderhoof’s Faith Church Directory

Call Pam at 250-567-9258

Church Directory

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship

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

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

Small Groups meeting together regularly:

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

567-9198 263 Vanderview Drive

The Gospel Chapel

448 Connaught Street

For more information call567-3107

www.thegospelchapel.ca

Our MissionGlorifying God by helping all people move closer to

Jesus Christ one step at a time.

11:00 a.m. Worship Service

(Affi liated with the Evangelical Free Church of Canada)

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

1393 Highway 16 East250-567-4960

Join us Sundays @ 9:30 amEveryone Welcome!

Visit our website:nechakocommunitychurch.com

Nechako Christian Fellowship

WELCOMES YOU!11:00 am Worship Service

767 Loop RoadEmail: [email protected]

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

Christ - CenteredBible - Based

Missions - MindedNon-Denominational

Youth coaches for youth basketball

VIVIAN CHUI photo

An elementary student practised ball handling and game play at the 29th Viking Basketball Hoop Camp on Mar. 3. See page 14

Page 18: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA18 www.ominecaexpress.com

Has the following full-time positions for Nechako Lakes:

• 2 Occupational Therapists• 1 Physiotherapist

• Early Intervention & School Age Therapy Program Coordinator

• Speech and language Pathologist

These are full time (35 hours/week) permanent positions beginning April 4th, 2016.

For a detailed job summary and qualifications required please visit our website at

www.bvcdc.ca

Apply by resume by March 18th, 2016:Kerri Bassett

Executive Director - BV CDCE-mail: [email protected]

Phone: (250) 847-4122 Fax: (250) 847-9338

7495738

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

HAVE YOU been denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefi ts? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222 or visit www.dcac.ca [email protected]

HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in walking/dress-ing? Disability tax credit $2,000 tax credit $20,000 re-fund. Apply today for assis-tance: 1-844-453-5372.

NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE

4 March 2016

Reservoir Elevation: 851.6 m (2794.04 ft.)SLS Discharge: 29.0 m3/s

Overall Snowpack: to be up-dated next week

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

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

Visit websitehttp://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/da-ta/asp/realtime/index.htm.for up to date snowpack information.

Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-567-5105 for more information. A re-cording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250- 567-5812

Travel

TimeshareCANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program stop mort-gage & maintenance pay-ments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consul-tation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

TravelSAVE 30% on our Heart of the Arctic adventure. Visit Inuit communities in Greenland and Nunavut aboard the com-fortable 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour. Call for details! 1-800-363-7566 or visit online www.adventurecanada.com (TICO#04001400)

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

Career Opportunities

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

Education/Trade Schools

HEALTHCARE DOCUMEN-TATION Specialists are in huge demand. Employers want CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Train with Canada’s best-rated program. Enroll today. www.canscribe.com. 1-800-466-1535 [email protected]

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

Farm WorkersTREE To Me: Farm Manager (Or-ganic) Tree To Me is a new organic farm operation located in Kereme-os, BC that has a farm market, cof-fee shop, bakery and bed and breakfast. The company requires a full time Farm Manager. This is a career position with the opportunity for equity ownership in the busi-ness. The current farm operation in-cludes tree fruits, perennial vegeta-bles and berries, annual vegetables and a greenhouse operation. Along with increasing production in these areas, additional farming activities will be added in the future. The suc-cessful candidate will have both academic and practical farm experi-ence, an aptitude for equipment and building maintenance and be capable of functioning within a man-agement team. An attractive remu-neration package will be offered. Reply by email to [email protected]. www.TreeToMe.ca

POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and in-stallation. Call John at 403-998-7907; or email: jcameron @advancebuildings.com

REFORESTATION Nurseryseedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelter-belts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free Shipping. Replacement guar-antee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSaw-mills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

Announcements Employment Merchandise for Sale Merchandise for Sale

Information Business Opportunities

Misc. for Sale Misc. WantedWanted: Cattle Pasture for minimum 20 head of cattle. Phone 250-567-5638.

Real EstateTIRED OF the snow and cold? Instead, relocate to sun-ny Sunshine Coast, just an hour away from Vancouver. Enjoy a serene family home-stead, consisting of 14.88 acres of lush forest, meadows, your own private waterfall, an enormous 3374 sq.ft. work-shop, a great family home and a carriage suite above a triple garage and a beautiful in-ground pool. For more infor-mation call Susanne Jorgen-sen, Remax Oceanview 604-885-1398.

Help Wanted Help Wanted

Garage Sales Garage Sales Garage Sales

To advertise in print:Call: 250-567-9258 Email: offi [email protected]

Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

Browse more at:

A division of

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Reach A Larger Audience

Turn your unwanted items into

“GOLD”Out with the Old in with the New - Garage Sale/Yard Sale time!

Stop by the Omineca Express now!!!Special pricing to our valued readers - list your items for sale

2x4 ad $30.00/week

Denise:250-567-9258

150 West ColumbiaVanderhoof

Help Wanted Help Wanted

Nechako Mechanical, in Vanderhoof is hiring! Wage is negotiable depending on experience.

Please drop resumé off to our office 3446 Mountainview Rd, Vanderhoof, BC or

email Philip Simoes: [email protected]

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Page 19: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

www.ominecaexpress.com A19Omineca Express Wednesday, March 9, 2016

INTEGRIS COMMUNITY CENTRE

The project consists of interior demolition of 5,100 sq. ft. main fl oor and second fl oor of 2,700 sq. ft., removing all interior partitions and fi nishes. The hazardous materials will be removed under a Cash Allowance. The existing bank vault (19’ x 12’ x 9’ tall, 16” thick walls & ceiling) is to be removed within the contract, with temporary shoring, and new support columns installed. The new construction includes removal & replacing concrete fl oor slab to install new plumbing services, new interior framing, fi nishes. The existing fl oors will be upgraded to a 1 hour fi re separation. New HVAC and electrical to be installed for the new layout. The new interior layout will include daycare kitchen & washrooms, and community uses. The second fl oor will have new steel exit stairs.

Bid Depository will NOT apply to this project.

Sealed tenders in duplicate, marked “VANDERHOOF COMMUNITY CENTRE”, will be received by Chernoff Thompson Architects North, 230 - 177 Victoria Street, Prince George, BC V2L 5R8, before 2:00 p.m. (14:00 hours) local time Thursday March 17th, 2016

Each tender shall be accompanied by a Bid Bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total tendered price.

The successful Contractor will be required to submit a Performance Bond and Labour and Materials Payment Bond, each in the amount of 50% of the Contracted amount, within ten (10) days of the award of the Con-tract. All enquiries regarding this tender must be directed to:

Terry Broomsgrove Architect AIBC, MRAICChernoff Thompson Architects North230 - 177 Victoria StreetPrince George, BC V2L 5R8Phone: 250-564-7285Fax: 250-564-7286

Only the General Contractors who attended the Mandatory Site Tour can submit a BID.

District of Vanderhoof Box 900, 160 Connaught StreetVanderhoof, BCV0J 3A0

DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOFPUBLIC NOTICE – ROAD RESTRICTIONS

PURSUANT TO SECTION 38 OF THE COMMUNITY CHARTER AND THE COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT ACT AND THE MOTOR VEHICLE ACT, THE FOLLOWING ROAD RESTRICTIONS ARE HEREBY IMPOSED ON THE MUNICIPAL ROADS AND STREETS LISTED BELOW WITHIN THE DISTRICT OF VANDERHOOF.

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY100% LEGAL LOADING- Northside Road- Mountainview Road- Erickson Road to end of pavement- Industrial Drive to end of pavement- Recreation Ave. from Highway 16 to intersection with Stewart St.- Stewart Street from Burrard Ave. to Recreation Avenue- Nechako Avenue- Vanderhoof Dump Road- Burrard Avenue- Loop Road- Spruce Street

70% OF MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE UNDER RESTRICTIONS- All other roads in the District of Vanderhoof unless

otherwise posted.

All overweight term permits are invalid for the duration of the restrictions of the above noted roads.

The applicable percentage of tolerances provided under Section 7.06(2) of regulations pursuant to the Commercial Transport Act shall apply.

Violators of the regulations and restrictions will be prosecuted.

Dated this 3rd day of March, 2016 at Vanderhoof, BC

Paul CarverDirector of Operations

VANDERHOOF AND AREABUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Email: [email protected]

vertiserReaching Every DoorADSTUART

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Pam BergerPublisher

150 W. Columbia StBox 1007, VanderhoofBC V0J 3A0

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Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972

Pam BergerPublisher

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Page 20: Vanderhoof Omineca Express, March 09, 2016

Vaughn Mueller,Coach of NVSS Senior Girls Basketball

It has been a long gruelling journey for the Nechako Valley Viqueens, who started training a week after their disappointing loss in last year’s zone fi nals that left them on the outside looking in at their Provincial Championship dreams.

“As a team we vowed that this year was going to be different,” said Mueller. “We committed as a team to work hard and to get better and to prove that we were worthy provincial contenders.”

The Viqueens did more than that. A week after the 2015 season ended, we were back at it: 7:00-a.m. workouts until the end of school, and then into summer training, and through to the fall and right up to bas-ketball season.

“That is a a sign of commitment and determination,” said Mueller, “And that de-termination and hard work paid off at the 2016 AA girls Provincials in Langley this past week.”

The girls went 3-1 to capture fi fth place — one place higher than their ranking go-ing in.

“I call this group ‘The Heart Break Kids,’” said Mueller, “Because of the num-ber of heart-stopping gut check wins we had this year. This group had no quit in them, no matter who their opponents were; we never backed down and certainly never quit until the fi nal buzzer went off.”

This never-quit attitude was quite ap-parent in all 4 of our games this week in Langley.

Game 1 featured a fi rst round matchup #6 ranked Viqueens against #11 Belenas Senior Secondary off of Vancouver Island.

“This was a slow start for us, as both teams traded baskets, until the fourth quar-ter, when the Viqueens fi nally woke up and took a strangle hold on their opponents. It was like somebody just turned on the light switch. It was like night and day,” said

Mueller, “We cruised through that fourth quarter with little resistance on route to a 82-65 win!”

Kassidy Dick lead the way with 21 points while Katie Verduzco kicked in 17.

Game 2 featured a rematch against # 3 ranked Seycove Secondary from North Vancouver.

“This team beat us fairly convincingly 3 weeks ago,” said Mueller, “So we had a pretty good idea what we were up against. They started two girls 6’2” and had some decent shooters.”

The Viqueens were ready this time, as the fi rst half was a seesaw battle that saw Seycove go into the break with a eight-point lead.

“It was the third quarter that really hurt us,” said Mueller, “As we missed several easy baskets, and they answered back spreading the gap.”

The girls made a mid-fourth-quarter run but fell short losing a hard fought battle 72-59.

Kassidy Dick once again led the way with 16 points and Sydney Andres kicked in 12.

“Game 3 was crazy,” said Mueller. Af-ter that very tough Seycove game, the girls came out tired and sluggish, which allowed Holy Cross to jump out to an early 21-point lead.

“I told the girls it was time to unleash the attack dogs — that’s what we call the multiple full court presses that we use,” he said. “It was potty in motion, as our relent-less pressure simply overwhelmed Holy Cross, and that 21-point lead evaporated in one quarter. We out scored them 23-0 in the third quarter.”

Holy Cross was unable to respond, and eventually the Viqueens won 58-63.

“I don’t think I have ever seen a press dominate the way it did in that third quar-ter,” said Mueller. “It was amazing.”

Jordan Andres spearheaded the attack with 20 points and six steals, while sister

Sydney and Kassidy Dick kicked in 12 apiece.

The win put the girls into a collision course with Vernon Secondary — a game that would prove to be yet another exciting game, as the Viqueens downed VSS earlier in the season with a dramatic come-from-behind victory in overtime.

This game was no different, as two tired teams slugged away at each other like two heavy weight boxers in the 12th round. For three quarters neither team seemed to be able to take control of the game. With about

6 minutes to go the Viqueens slapped on a weary, but highly effective press, that saw them go on a 10-0 run that allowed them enough cushion to hang on for a weary 63-58 victory.

“It was a gutsy win once again from the girls,” said Mueller, “A fantastic fi nish to a great season.” Jordan Andres once again led all scorers with15 points and eight steals, followed by Sydney Andres, with 11 and Kassidy Dick with 10.

Overall it was a great season the girls fi nished 28-9. Congratulations!

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 Omineca ExpressA20 www.ominecaexpress.com

Viqueens go 3-1 en route to a fi fth place fi nish at 2016 Senior Girls AA provincial tournament

Kevin BublitzCoach of NCS Senior

Girls Basketball

The senior girls basketball team from Northside Christian School are fi nishing off their season strong.  They traveled to Tumbler Ridge from Feb. 24 to 27 to compete in the North Central “A” zone championships.

At stake were three berths to the provincial championships in Duncan.  In their fi rst game, the #3 seeded NCS Northstars played #6 Fort Nelson Hus-kies, and came away with a 68-28 win. Charis Schlamp, Grade 11, led the way with 14 points, followed by Stephanie Ludwig with 12, and Nicole Bublitz with 11.  

Their next game turned out to be the best game of the tournament; it was against #2 LDSS Lakers, with the win-ner guaranteed a spot at provincials. The game featured 12 lead changes, until the Northstars went on a 9-0 run late in the fourth quarter and took a 63-60 lead, only to watch LDSS come back and score a three-point shot with less than 30 seconds in the game.

Then off a fast break, Bublitz pushed the ball up to Julia

Friesen, Grade 9, who scored the go-ahead basket.  LDSS was out of timeouts, so the Northstars were able to hold on

to the win. Schlamp had a big game with 26 points and Katie Wiens chipped in 19, followed by Bublitz with 12.

In the gold-medal game, #1 Cedars Christian Eagles from Prince George were too much for our girls, 69-52. Schlamp again led with 21 points and was named a fi rst team all-star. Ludwig and Bublitz earned second team all-stars, and Friesen earned the sixth player award. 

The team is now excited to travel to Vancouver Island on March 7  to com-pete in the 16-team single A champion-ships. The North Central zone is seeded strongly, with Cedars at  #3, Northside #8, and LDSS at #13.  Northside’s fi rst game took place on Wednesday versus Pemberton, a team they upsetted at a tournament in Valemount in late Janu-ary. Pemberton was ranked seventh and the Northstars were not yet noticed pro-vincially.  Since then our girls have been turning heads with their strong play.

The single “A” tier is for teams that have 80 or fewer girls in grades 11 and 12. To view tournament results and info,

the site is http://www.bcgirlsabball.ca/

Northside Northstars scores for ‘A’ provincials

SPORTSExpress