Friday, July 31, 2020

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Gov'ts off until Week of Aug 10-14, 2020

There are no meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards' of Education until the week of August 10-14, 2020

Future Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' or Boards' of Education:

Wells - Unknown at this time

Quesnel - August 18th (if required) or August 25th

Williams Lake - August 11th

100 Mile House - August 11th

Cariboo Regional District - August 20th (Committee of the Whole Board) and August 21st (Regional Hospital District Board and Regional District Board)

School District #28 (Quesnel) - September 16th

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - September 22nd

July 31st, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

“Today, we are announcing 50 new cases, including five epi-linked cases, for a total of 3,641 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 278 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 3,168 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, five individuals are hospitalized, two of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 1,088 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,889 in the Fraser Health region, 144 in the Island Health region, 369 in the Interior Health region, 88 in the Northern Health region and 63 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There has been one new COVID-19 related death in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, for a total of 195 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There has been one new health-care facility outbreak at Dania Home in the Fraser Health region. There are now two long-term care facilities and one acute-care facility with active outbreaks.

“There are no new community outbreaks. Public health teams continue to support the active outbreaks on Haida Gwaii and at Fraser Valley Packers Inc.

“There continues to be additional community exposure events across the province. A full listing of community exposure events related to flights and others within each health authority is available through the BC Centre for Disease Control, as well as on health authority websites.

“This weekend, let’s play safe and stay safe while COVID-19 remains in our communities.

“We can make this B.C. Day holiday weekend one where we find the right balance: having those important social connections with our friends and family, while taking precautions to protect ourselves and those around us.

“Let’s socialize safely by keeping our groups small, using the layers of protection and giving everyone enough space to stay safe, whether at a backyard barbecue, on a friend’s boat or enjoying a nearby park.

“A new ‘good times guide’ is available online for everyone to use: https://goodtimes.gov.bc.ca/

“It is our playbook for how to have fun and to keep each other safe and healthy.

“We all want to keep COVID-19 low and slow, and your actions make the difference. Throughout B.C., people are doing what it takes to keep our firewall strong, and we thank you for what you are doing today, tomorrow and every day this summer.”

Quick Facts:

  • Assisted living, long-term care homes and seniors' rental buildings with ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks are as follows:
    • Vancouver Coastal Health:
      • Holy Family Hospital long-term care facility
    • Fraser Health:
      • Dania Home long-term care facility

Learn More:

If you have plans this long weekend, follow Dr. Bonnie Henry’s Good Times Guide: https://goodtimes.gov.bc.ca/

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:
BC Centre for Disease Control (flights, worksites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the amended order on mass gatherings, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan and the first report on its progress from July 21, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0228-001337

For the latest modelling information presented on July 20, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews 
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Thursday, July 30, 2020

July 30th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement of BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

“Today, we are announcing 29 new cases, for a total of 3,591 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 242 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 3,155 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, five individuals are hospitalized, two of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 1,076 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,865 in the Fraser Health region, 143 in the Island Health region, 360 in the Interior Health region, 86 in the Northern Health region and 61 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There have been no new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 194 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks. There is one long-term care facility and one acute-care facility with active outbreaks.

“There are no new community outbreaks, with no new cases on Haida Gwaii and 59 cases connected to Fraser Valley Packers Inc. Public health teams continue to support these active outbreaks.

“A reminder that the consumption of fruit from a location where people are confirmed to have COVID-19 is safe. However, people are reminded to always wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.

“There continues to be additional community exposure events throughout the province. A full listing of community exposure events related to flights and others within each health authority is available through the BC Centre for Disease Control, as well as on health authority websites.

“In recent weeks, B.C. has faced an increase in new cases and new outbreaks of COVID-19. Much of this surge can be connected to Canada Day activities in the Kelowna area.

“What we have seen is that when our groups are too big and we see too many people outside of our household bubble, the potential for the virus to spread increases.

“We voiced our concern and British Columbians have listened. We thank you for resetting and rejoining our efforts to push our COVID-19 curve down and keep it low and slow in B.C.

“Until we have an effective vaccine, we all need to find the balance of reducing our risks and increasing our social connections. It is not difficult to do, but requires all of our effort, all of the time. This is how we play safe and stay safe.

“The fewer new cases and exposure events, the more opportunities we all have to enjoy the summer and have fun. More businesses are open and more activities are available to all of us.

“It is easy to socialize safely and that’s what we all need to do this B.C. Day weekend. To do this, let’s keep our groups small and keep a safe distance from others, no matter where we may be.

“The actions you take make a difference, so let’s make this holiday a different holiday than what we saw in early July. What you do today and this weekend will determine what we are able to do in the weeks ahead – so let’s all do the right thing.”

Quick Facts:

  • Assisted living, long-term care homes and seniors' rental buildings with ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks are as follows:
    • Vancouver Coastal Health:
      • Holy Family Hospital long-term care facility

Learn More:

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:
BC Centre for Disease Control (flights, worksites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the amended order on mass gatherings, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan and the first report on its progress from July 21, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0228-001337

For the latest modelling information presented on July 20, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews 
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Water reserves critically low in Alexis Creek

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Water reserves for the Alexis Creek water system are critically low. The Cariboo Regional District is asking residents of the area (114 km west of Williams Lake) to limit their water use wherever possible, to maintain the quality and supply of water to the community.

Low water reserves can negatively impact the system’s water quality and the ability of emergency personnel to fight structure or wildfires. With one community well supplying over 70 households in Alexis Creek, resident cooperation is crucial in efforts to conserve water.

Alexis Creek residents are also reminded that water restrictions are currently in effect and lawn sprinkling is limited to 5 am to 11 am and 5pm to 11 pm daily. Failure to abide by these restrictions can result in enforcement action up to and including turning off the water supply to properties disregarding these limits.

The system cannot adequately keep up with the current demand and will run out of water if overuse continues. If you have any questions please contact the Cariboo Regional District Environmental Services Department at 250-392-3351.

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

July 29th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer:

"Today, we are announcing 41 new cases for a total of 3,562 cases in British Columbia. This includes a data correction from yesterday.

"There are 259 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 3,109 people who tested positive have recovered.

"Of the total COVID-19 cases, six individuals are hospitalized, two of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

"Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 1,071 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,846 in the Fraser Health region, 143 in the Island Health region, 356 in the Interior Health region, 86 in the Northern Health region and 60 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

"There have been no new COVID-19 related deaths for a total of 194 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks and the outbreak at St. Paul’s Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit has now been declared over. In total, one long-term care facility and one acute-care facility have active outbreaks.

“There are no new community outbreaks. Currently, there are 20 cases on Haida Gwaii and 31 cases connected to Fraser Valley Packers Inc. Public health teams continue to support these active outbreaks. Of note, there are no health concerns related to the consumption of fruit from Fraser Valley Packers Inc. However, people are reminded to always wash fruit and vegetables before eating them.

“There continues to be additional community exposure events throughout the province. An alert has been issued for Liquid Zoo in Kelowna. Anyone who may have been at the night club from July 15 to 18 is asked to monitor themselves closely, limit their contact with others and contact 811 to get tested, if symptoms develop.

“A full listing of community exposure events related to flights and others within each health authority is available through the BC Centre for Disease Control, as well as on health authority websites.

“To play safe and stay safe this weekend, and protect all of our communities from COVID-19, we all need to use the layers of protection we have available and keep your groups small.

“Staying a safe distance from others is the best way to slow the spread of the virus. If you are in a crowded area, outside or inside, and you can’t maintain a safe physical distance, wearing a mask is a further protective layer.

“We also need to remember to wash our hands regularly, clean surfaces more often, follow one-way pathways and always, without exception, stay home if you are at all feeling ill.

“The actions you take make a difference and will help all of us to stay safe this summer. Let’s bend our curve back down and keep our province strong.

Quick Facts:

Assisted living, long-term care homes and seniors' rental buildings with ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks are as follows:

Vancouver Coastal Health:

  • Holy Family Hospital long-term care facility

Learn More:

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:
BC Centre for Disease Control (flights, worksites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the amended order on mass gatherings, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

For B.C.'s surgical renewal plan and the first report on its progress from July 21, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0228-001337

For the latest modelling information presented on July 20, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For more information about BC's Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Soda Creek Indian Band now offers IT services

Courtesy of the Soda Creek Indian Band (Xat'sull First Nations):

Soda Creek Indian Band is pleased to announce Xatśūll Information Technology Services and Support (XITSS) is now available to companies, bands and nations. 

XITSS offers a wide range of computer services including hardware installation, maintenance and repair, servers, decommissioning, reviewing quotes, setting up and maintaining servers, full domain support, network security, routers, switches, cabling, wireless installation and more.
Services will also be available to Soda Creek Indian Band members.

Chief Sheri Sellars says she’s excited about the new services.

“I am thrilled with this new endeavour Soda Creek Band has taken in Information Technology (IT). Hiring an IT expert to assist with the high costs of computer maintenance was the logical next step and will also lead to economic development for the community by servicing other organizations upon request.”

Garvin Buerge, XITSS Information Technologist with over 18 years of experience, says he’s looking forward to serving area businesses.

Buerge is fully certified (CompTIA A+, CompTIA Server+ and Computer Systems: Operations and Management Program COSM).

XITSS will be available for on-site or in-shop service.

“So whether they bring it in for us to fix or we go to them to fix it, we’ll do whatever works best for them,” he says.

For more information or to get a quote for hourly or contract rates, phone 250-989-2323 ext. 148 or email it@xatsull.com.

#Quesnel City Council - July 28th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Fire Training Equipment Disposal

Council approved the disposal of four Atco Trailers and large metal tubes that were previously used by the City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District Volunteer Fire Departments for fire-training purposes. The costs to dispose of this obsolete training equipment will be shared between the City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District.

Revised Development Permit – 726 Front Street

Council approved revisions to a Development Permit considered in September of last year at 726 Front Street. The new proposal is a three-storey apartment building with 26 unitswhich required a variance for reduced bicycle parking units to ten.

Request to Donate Paving – Portion of Woodridge Road

Council approved the request to allow for the donation of paving of approximately 110 m of Woodridge Road that will meet all City road construction/inspection standards. This donation request was approved due to the rural nature of the area, improved road maintenance conditions, and no negative impacts to other property owners. Staff stated that they would request the landowner wishing to complete this paving project to communicate with the homeowners on Woodridge Road.

Museum and Visitor Centre Renovation – Contract Award

Council approved awarding the Museum and Visitor Centre Renovation Project to James and Sons Electric Ltd. For more details on this project please visit the City’s “Major Initiatives” website page.

Next Meeting

6:00 pm, August 25, 2020 - Regular Council Meeting

Xatśūll Heritage Site re-opens to the public

Courtesy of Soda Creek Indian Band (Xat'sull First Nations):

Xat'sull Kukpi7 (Chief) Sheri Sellars
The Xatśūll Heritage Site is welcoming visitors, says Chief Sheri Sellars. 

“Our National Award-Winning site is open and taking every precaution to ensure the health and safety of our community and our visitors during COVID-19.” Elder Ralph Phillips and guides are available to share an authentic Secwepemc experience with visitors. 

“We would love to see out at this historically significant location on the bench of the Fraser River in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Region of Beautiful British Columbia.” 

Due to COVID-19, however, the site is currently only taking pre-booked tours to ensure proper safety protocols including social distancing, hand sanitizing stations and the cleaning of areas after each use. 

“We’re also looking forward to 2021 when the village will be celebrating 25 of 10,000 plus years of history with the site having opened on June 1, 1996,” says Sellars. The site is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless otherwise booked. Daily tours include a short hike through the village site, an explanation of petroglyphs and artifacts, and storytelling by guides. Reconstructed traditional C-l’stkten (pit house) and teepees provide accommodation for visitors. 

 For more information or to book, you can contact Xatśūll Heritage Village at 250-297-6502, email heritagevillage@xatsull.com or visit xatsull.com.

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Special WL City Council Meeting - July 28th, 2020

Present: Mayor W. Cobb and Councillors J. Ryll, M. Brenner, S. Nelson, S. Boehm and I. Bonnell (via teleconference)

Meeting called to order at 6pm

Mayor Cobb acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda adopted with 1 Late Item

Business:

1) NDIT Marketing Grant - Banner Project

A report from the City's Economic Development Officer was presented
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That pursuant to the report of the Economic Development Officer dated July 10, 2020, Council approved the design of the “Welcome to Williams Lake” light post banners that will be a fulfillment to the NDIT Marketing Grant previously approved by Council

2) Disaster Financial Assistance - Flood Recovery Plan

A report from the City's Director of Planning & Development was presented
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the report of the Director of Planning & Development dated July 22, 2020 be received for information and further; Council directed staff to amend the City of Williams Lake Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2326, 2020 to allocate $530,500.00 from the Sanitary Sewer account and further that Staff pursue all grant opportunities for this project

3) Council Appointment to Central North Cariboo Housing Capacity & Gap Analysis Technical Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That Councillor Scott Nelson be appointed to the Central North Cariboo Housing Capacity & Gap Analysis Technical Committee

Editor's Note -- Cariboo Regional District Area 'D' Director Steve Forseth has been appointed to this Committee as well

Council received an update on the WL River Valley Restoration Project

A Question/Answer period ensued

No resolution of Council resulted from the discussion

Council adjourned at 6:25pm

Cariboo Fire Centre restores Category 2 Open Fire Ban effective July 31st at 12 noon

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

Effective at noon on July 31, 2020, Category 2 open burning as well as other equipment and activities will be prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. This prohibition is being enacted to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. 

 

This prohibition will remain in effect until noon on Sept. 30, 2020, or until the public is otherwise notified. Anyone conducting Category 2 open fires within the Cariboo Fire Centre jurisdiction must extinguish any such fire by noon on July 31. Category 3 open fires will remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre until Sept. 30, 2020 or until the public is otherwise notified. 

 

A map of the affected areas is available online athttp://ow.ly/PRxk30r1h0O

 

This prohibition does not apply to campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide and does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes. A poster explaining the different categories of open burning is available online at: http://ow.ly/znny309kJv5

 

Specifically, prohibited activities will include: 

 

*Category 2 open fires; 

 

*Category 3 open fires; 

 

*The use of Fireworks, including firecrackers; and 

 

*Sky Lanterns; 

 

* Tiki Torches 

 

*Air Curtain Burners; 

 

*Binary Exploding Targets; 

 

*Burn Barrels or Burn Cages of any size or description; 

 

These prohibitions apply to all public and private land within the Cariboo Fire Centre jurisdiction, unless specified otherwise (e.g. in a local government bylaw). Please check with local government authorities (e.g. confirm with municipality if within city limits) for any other restrictions before lighting any fire. 

 

Enforcement of fire prohibitions is undertaken by: 

 

*the Compliance and Enforcement Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development; 

 

*the Conservation Officer Service; and 

 

*the RCMP. 

 

All illegal fires will be investigated, and charges may be laid under the Wildfire Act or Wildfire Regulation, depending on the outcome of the investigation. 

 

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs, as well as the value of resources damaged or destroyed by the wildfire. 

 

The Cariboo Fire Centre stretches from Loon Lake near Clinton in the south to the Cottonwood River near Quesnel in the north, and from Tweedsmuir Provincial Park in the west to Wells Gray Provincial Park in the east. 

 

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit www.bcwildfire.ca 

 

You can follow the latest wildfire news on: 

 

*Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

 

*Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

July 28th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

“Today, we are announcing 23 new cases, for a total of 3,523 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 253 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 3,076 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, nine individuals are hospitalized, three of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 1,067 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,815 in the Fraser Health region, 143 in the Island Health region, 358 in the Interior Health region, 80 in the Northern Health region and 60 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There has been one new COVID-19 related death in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, for a total of 194 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks. In total, one long-term care facility and two acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“There are no new community outbreaks and public-health teams continue to support the active outbreaks on Haida Gwaii and at Fraser Valley Packers Inc.

“There continues to be additional community exposure events throughout the province. A full listing of community exposure events for each health authority is available through the BC Centre for Disease Control, as well as on health-authority websites.

“As we all look ahead to the upcoming B.C. Day long weekend, let’s ensure it is a safe weekend for all of us. Whether it is enjoying the local parks, staying at a vacation rental or out for dinner, keeping our groups small and maintaining safe distances will protect ourselves and those around us. And if you are in a vacation rental accommodation, whether a hotel room or houseboat, new provincial health officer orders mean you can have a maximum of five visitors and you must take down their contact information.

“Let’s make sure COVID-19 doesn’t take our summer away by taking steps to bend our curve back down, this weekend and every weekend.”

Quick Facts:

  • Assisted living, long-term care homes and seniors' rental buildings with ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks are as follows:
    • Vancouver Coastal Health:
      • Holy Family Hospital long-term care facility

Learn More:

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:
BC Centre for Disease Control (flights, worksites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the amended order on mass gatherings, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan and the first report on its progress from July 21, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0228-001337

For the latest modelling information presented on July 20, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews 
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Xatśūll Heritage Village lookout being replaced


Courtesy of the Soda Creek Indian Band (Xat'sull First Nations):

The iconic lookout overlooking the Xatśūll Heritage Village is being replaced.

“People come from a long way away to look down at the heritage village and the beautiful Fraser River from there,” says Cheryl Chapman, economic development and employment co-ordinator for the Soda Creek Indian Band (SCIB)

The total project is expected to cost is about $25,000. Of that, $5,000 came from the Cariboo Regional District (Areas D/F) with the rest coming from community development funding through the SCIB

The works is being done by Darren Russell, Dave Pop and Barry Beaulieu who are all community members, says Chapman.

The intent is for the project to be complete in a week but that will depend on a number of factors such as the supplies coming in and favourable weather.

Chapman says they’re not just looking to replace the deck boards but also some of the logs.

“When the logs settle, they crack so the logs kind of fill with water. That’s made it not totally unsafe but it was starting to get soft.”

The decking boards will also be replaced with 2x6s from what were 2x4s.

“So it’s going to be way sturdier and stronger than it is right now.”

Chapman says she’s looking forward to taking new pictures from the lookout.

The public is asked to slow down while the work is ongoing and not to climb out onto the lookout while the work is going on.

The deck had been closed for repairs for some time.

Monday, July 27, 2020

July 27th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement of BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

"Today, we are providing case updates for three 24-hour reporting periods. In the first reporting period, from July 24 to July 25, we had 36 new cases. From July 25 to July 26, we had 21 new cases. In the last 24 hours, we have had a further 24 new cases.

“This represents 81 new cases, including seven epi-linked cases since we reported on Friday, for a total of 3,500 cases in British Columbia.

"There are 264 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 3,043 people who tested positive have recovered.

"Of the total COVID-19 cases, 11 people are hospitalized, three of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

"Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 1,064 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,800 in the Fraser Health region, 143 in the Island Health region, 353 in the Interior Health region, 80 in the Northern Health region and 60 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

"There have been two new COVID-19 related deaths in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, for a total of 193 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks. In total, one long-term care facility and two acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“Fraser Health has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Fraser Valley Packers Inc., a fruit packing plant in Abbotsford, after 15 staff working at the facility tested positive for COVID-19. Public-health teams are on site to investigate and case and contact management is ongoing. Those identified as cases and close contacts have been instructed to self-isolate.  

“The outbreak on Haida Gwaii has a total of 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19 to date.

“There also continues to be additional community exposure events throughout the province. A full listing of community exposure events for each health authority is available through the BC Centre for Disease Control, as well as on health authority websites.

“We can all enjoy our summer, and we know what we need to do to ensure COVID-19 does not take that enjoyment away.

“Let’s continue to take the necessary precautions to reduce the potential for COVID-19 to spread in our communities and among our friends and family.

“Start planning today for how you’re going to make your B.C. Day long weekend a safe one. Take the time to assess the risks before spending time with others and put measures in place to protect yourself and those around you.

“How will you give people the space to stay safe? Are you spending a short time together? Are the people you are with in your bubble? If you can’t say ‘yes’ to these questions, then say ‘no’ to the activity. Choose to do something else instead.

“Spending time outside is far safer than being indoors, so take advantage of the many options we have here in British Columbia. However, remember that ensuring you have a safe physical distance from others is important, no matter where you may be.

“The provincial health officer’s order on mass gatherings has been amended to limit the number of people in vacation accommodations, including for house, cabin, yurt and boat rentals, as well as hotel rooms.

“The number of people is limited to the capacity of the space, plus up to a maximum of five visitors. For example, if the capacity of the accommodation is four people, the maximum number of visitors allowed is five, for a total of no more than nine people. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure the order is adhered to by all guests and to ensure contact tracing information is collected for everyone – guests and visitors alike.

“When travelling, travel safely. Use your travel manners and be courteous and considerate of those around you. Don’t ask a venue or their staff to bend the rules. Rather, thank them for the efforts they are making to help keep all of us safe.

“Let’s use the summer days to bend our curve back down and help protect everyone in B.C.”

Quick Facts:

  • Assisted living, long-term care homes and seniors' rental buildings with ongoing COVID-19 outbreaks are as follows:
    • Vancouver Coastal Health:
      • Holy Family Hospital long-term care facility

Learn More:

For the amended order on mass gatherings, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:
BC Centre for Disease Control (flights, worksites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

To learn more about the amended order for nightclubs and bars, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-order-nightclubs-food-drink.pdf

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan and the first report on its progress from July 21, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0228-001337

For the latest modelling information presented on July 20, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews 
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC