In the heart of Wet’suwet’en territory just outside Smithers, the Wetzin’kwa Community Forest Corporation (WCFC) is reshaping how communities think about forest stewardship. 

Managing more than 30,000 hectares of mixed forest and alpine terrain, WCFC works to balance environmental health, local economic opportunity and cultural responsibility – a model of sustainable forest management rooted in collaboration and respect. 

“Our main goal is to reduce waste as much as we can,” says General Manager Sam Coggins. “We wanted a method that was safe, efficient and respected both the land and the people who live here.” 

For decades, the standard practice for disposing of forestry waste was open pile burning. – While effective, locals expressed concerns about air quality impacts. 

Pile burning typically releases smoke for a short period during burning, and can result in smoldering that carries on for days.Despite using custom ventilation forecasts smoke is released into the valley frustrating residents who already cope with wildfire haze during the summer months.

In the interest of reducing impacts, WCFC has used an air curtain burner that reduced the number of burn piles so much that this year’s pile burning has taken approximately 5 days.

Determined to find a cleaner solution, WCFC introduced an innovative new technology to the Bulkley Valley: the Air Curtain Burner – a pollution-control system that transforms how forest waste is managed.

What is an Air Curtain Burner? 

Also known as an Air Curtain Incinerator – Air Curtain Burners work by channeling a powerful stream of air over a burn chamber filled with wood waste. 

Instead of letting smoke escape into the atmosphere, the air curtain forces it back into the hottest part of the fire, where the particles are re-burned at a very high temperature. The result is a fast, efficient combustion process. 

“Our system eliminates what used to take days or even weeks in just a few hours,” Coggins explains. “It’s safer, cleaner and less impactful for local air quality.” 

Because it meets BC Wildfire Service safety standards, the burner can operate year-round – even during summer months when open fires are restricted. That flexibility helps reduce fuel buildup and supports ongoing wildfire risk reduction treatments, an essential part of the region’s forest management strategy. 

“Being able to manage residuals immediately after thinning has really increased the efficiency of operations,” says Katelyn Metanczuk, WCFC’s Enhanced Stewardship Coordinator. 

The use of a mini-excavator to load the thinning residuals into the Air Curtain Burner. Photo courtesy Wetzin’kwa Community Forest.

Metanczuk also notes the importance of community partnerships. 

“We want to shout out Rob Vanderkooi and his company RCV Mechanical Ltd., who we worked with on the thinning operations and the air curtain burner system. Rob’s expertise has been invaluable.” 

Coggins adds that community engagement has been central to the process. “We offered firsthand exposure to the air curtain burner’s operation through field tours, to give our community a greater understanding of this new method of forest waste management.” 

The Air Curtain Burners also produces biochar, a natural by-product of clean burning. Biochar acts as a soil enhancer, improving water retention and supporting plant growth. 

“Biochar makes a great soil additive for native plants like huckleberries,” Coggins says. 

Balancing forest and community 

This new approach to forest waste management aligns with WCFC’s broader mission: to protect ecological integrity while supporting local economies. 

The project was supported by a grant from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, which funds initiatives that improve forest resilience and reduce wildfire risks across the province. 

WCFC’s work also extends beyond the forest itself. A portion of forest revenue is reinvested locally every year to support non-profits, First Nations, schools and community programs. This is provided through community grants and stakeholder donations.

That focus on local benefit extends to WCFC’s partnerships with small businesses and mills, creating jobs that keep profits within the Bulkley Valley. 

“Community forestry means the value of every tree extends beyond the stump,” Coggins says. “From logging crews to local artisans, the benefits stay close to home.” 

For WCFC, adopting the Air Curtain Burner is more than an operational upgrade – it’s a reflection of what community-based forestry can achieve. 

Cleaner burns mean healthier air. Faster waste removal means safer forests. And every project, from harvesting to habitat protection, is guided by the shared goal of maintaining a sustainable, living landscape for generations to come.

To learn more about Wetzin’kwa Community Forest Corporation visit wetzinkwa.ca or follow them @wetzinkwa on Facebook and Instagram for updates on stewardship projects and community programs.

As Canada’s No. 1 employee benefits plan, local businesses appreciate the accessibility, rate predictability, unsurpassed value and unmatched customer service and support Chambers Plan provides.

A closer look:

No minimum size, no industry restrictions – Guaranteed coverage options are available for any small to medium-size business, including farms, home businesses and sole proprietors. Note that not-for-profit businesses that meet eligibility requirements can also apply for coverage but are subject to approval.

Additionally, business owners enjoy free expert legal, finance and human resources support, along with two hours of free coaching per year with Chambers Plan.

Local advisors and unmatched customer service – Providing efficient administrative and member support, Chambers Plan advisors are familiar with your business community. The Third Party Administrator (TPA) of Chambers Plan is Johnston Group, recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies every year since 2001.

Not-for-profit – all for businesses – As a not-for-profit under the guidance of a volunteer board of directors, Chambers Plan has no shareholder dividends to pay. Any surpluses are reinvested to provide industry-leading rate stability and unique options and features.

The plan you want for the long haul – Benefits include:

• comprehensive options
• nationwide pooling
• competitive pricing
• rate stability in a pool of over 32,000 businesses
• guaranteed renewals
• free additional business services and supports
• endorsed by 800+ chambers and boards of trade

Guaranteed renewal – Your coverage cannot be cancelled as long as you meet plan requirements and your premiums are paid.

Ready to learn how the Chambers Plan can support your business? Contact Linda Rempel for a FREE, no-obligation quote today: 250-617-2929 or linda@my-bestbenefits.ca

Many older homes across the province weren’t built for this kind of summer heat. They often rely on outdated single-pane windows, poor insulation and worn-out frames, all of which contribute to indoor overheating. In fact, windows account for more than 25 per cent of a home’s overall energy loss in many B.C. communities, including Prince George.

The result? Air conditioners and fans are running harder, electricity usage is rising and monthly energy bills are climbing. According to recent national data, electricity prices increased an average of six per cent – but in B.C., homeowners saw the biggest jump in the country at 12.8 per cent.

Fortunately, there’s a smarter, long-term solution: upgrading to modern, energy-efficient windows that reduce solar heat gain, improve home insulation and minimize your reliance on air conditioning.

Why older windows contribute to overheating

In summer, outdated windows act like magnifying glasses for your home. Sunlight streams through glass, especially on west- and south-facing walls, turning rooms into heat traps. Without Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings or multi-pane insulation, older windows do little to stop infrared and ultraviolet rays from penetrating indoors.

What’s more, aging seals and warped frames often lead to air leaks. Warm outdoor air enters, while the cool air you’ve paid for escapes. Even some older double-pane windows fall short if they lack the right coatings or were installed decades ago.

When the sun’s beating down and your home won’t stay cool, chances are your windows are part of the problem.

Key features of energy-efficient windows

Upgrading your windows can dramatically reduce heat buildup and improve year-round comfort. Today’s window technologies are designed with B.C.’s evolving climate in mind:

• Low-E coatings: These microscopically thin, transparent layers reflect infrared and UV radiation while letting in natural light. This reduces overheating and helps protect your furniture and flooring from sun damage.

• Energy-efficient glass: In B.C., double-pane windows with Low-E coatings and low Solar Heat Gain Coefficients (SHGC) perform better than triple-pane models, which can actually trap too much heat in moderate climates. Look for units with a U-factor tailored to your region to balance insulation with solar control.

• Vinyl frames: Unlike aluminum or metal, vinyl doesn’t conduct heat as readily, which helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures and adds to the window’s overall efficiency.

Together, these components help reduce reliance on AC, lower your energy bills and create a more comfortable living space – even during peak summer heat.

Not looking for a full window replacement? Try these steps first

Full window replacement isn’t always feasible immediately. Luckily, there are practical ways to improve comfort and reduce heat without upgrading every window at once:

• Apply heat-blocking window film: A budget-friendly option, window films reflect sunlight and can also offer UV protection and added privacy.

• Use blinds or shades: Covering windows during the hottest hours of the day – especially in sun-facing rooms – can prevent indoor heat gain. Opt for reflective or light-coloured materials for best results.

• Seal air leaks: Use caulk or weatherstripping around window and door frames to prevent warm air from sneaking in and cool air from leaking out. This small fix can make a big difference.

• Focus on problem areas first: Start with the rooms you use most or those with the most direct sunlight, such as upstairs bedrooms or west-facing living rooms.

These simple upgrades can help you take control of your indoor climate and extend the life of your existing windows while you plan for future replacements.

Ready to beat the heat?

If your home struggles to stay cool, it may be time to re-evaluate your windows. Modern, energy-efficient models can help reduce heat buildup, cut down on electricity use and boost your home’s value and comfort – all without relying solely on air conditioning.

Reach out to your local window professionals to explore the latest features, styles and performance options designed specifically for northern B.C. homes. Stay cool, save energy and invest in lasting home comfort – starting with your windows!

Ecoline Windows offers exterior door and window replacement throughout B.C. as well as several other communities throughout Western Canada! Find more information about their services and your eligibility for rebate and grant programs online today at ecolinewindows.ca or by calling 778-400-2063.

To ease that burden, the Canadian Cancer Society offers the Cancer Travel and Accommodation Services (CTAAS) program. Thanks to the generous funding from the Government of B.C., this vital support is available to B.C. residents who are currently in active treatment or will soon be undergoing active treatment, and who meet specific income and distance criteria.

Whether it's chemotherapy, specialized procedures like bone marrow transplants, CAR-T therapy, or ongoing follow-up care, the costs of travel and accommodation can quickly become overwhelming. For many, these additional challenges create significant barriers to accessing timely, essential care.

Complete your CTAAS application online here

Through the program, eligible individuals and families can access:

• Travel treatment funding: Financial assistance for travel and temporary relocation related to cancer care.
• Free accommodation: Comfortable Canadian Cancer Society lodges near treatment centres offer a welcoming place to stay, allowing those affected by cancer to focus on healing.
• Transportation assistance: Volunteers from the Wheels of Hope program provide reliable, compassionate rides to and from appointments.

“We know how tough it is to deal with a cancer diagnosis. It’s a life-changing event that impacts patients and their families deeply, especially when travelling for treatment is necessary. The CTAAS program is here to help make things a bit easier by reducing the stress of logistics and financial costs, allowing patients to focus on their treatment and recovery,” said Carolyn Knox, Senior Director of Access to Care, Canadian Cancer Society.

Getting care shouldn’t be the hardest part of someone’s experience with cancer. For people affected by cancer in British Columbia, help is here. To learn more, including how to book support services, please visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca or call 1-888-939-3333.

The ability to access education, information and to be a part of a supportive community of people who understand the dementia journey is critical for caregivers’ well-being. For Pierrette Edgar, connecting with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. gave her strength to move forward after her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. 

“The doctor must have seen the look on my face when we found out,” Edgar says. “He referred us to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and that’s what saved me.”  

Northern B.C. is honouring all caregivers at the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s biggest fundraiser, the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, presented by Go Auto, in Prince George on Sunday, May 25. By sharing their stories, honourees put a face and voice to dementia, breaking down stigma and inspiring change. You can walk in honour of your community’s honouree or in support of someone in your life who has been affected by dementia. 

Funds raised help the organization deliver vital programs and services and enable critical research to change the future of the disease. 

“Many caregivers have shared with me that our programs and services helped connect them to a community of care where they felt supported, included and validated,” says Danielle Bywater, a Support and Education Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “Creating relationships and supporting caregivers from diagnosis through to the end-of-life stage of dementia gives care partners a safe space to discuss complex feelings and they know we are just a phone call away should they need guidance, support or simply an understanding ear.” 

The Society provides ongoing support, proactive outreach calls and the First Link® Dementia Helpline, where callers will find knowledgeable staff who listen to their needs (in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi and Urdu) and guide them to the resources, education and programs that are best suited for their unique situation. The support is invaluable for caregivers who are facing an unpredictable and, at times, isolating journey.  

“Caregivers deserve to have access to meaningful dementia support that meets their needs, which is why Go Auto is so thrilled to be continuing to be provincial presenting sponsor for the Walk,” says Michael Hladun, Senior Vice President for Go Auto. “It’s incredibly important for people across the province to understand the impact that dementia has on their communities – but also, how they can help.”

To help make a difference in the lives of caregivers on the dementia journey in your community, visit WalkForAlzheimers.ca. 

If you are affected by dementia, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. can help. Call the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033 or visit alzheimerbc.org. 

The Healing Support Fund offers vital support for Survivors of forced and coerced sterilization. First Nations, Metis and Inuit Survivors can apply for up to $10,000 for individual healing and $30,000 for assisted reproductive technology such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Further, community projects led by survivors can apply for an additional $30,000.

The Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice is a national not-for-profit organization created to end forced and coerced sterilization, support individual and community healing, and amplify the voices of First Nation, Inuit and Métis Survivors.

Harmony Redsky, the group’s executive director, said it’s estimated that at least 15,000 Indigenous women and girls were pressured, coerced or forced to undergo tubal ligation since at least the 1890s, although better data is needed because many Indigenous people who have experienced forced sterilization are unaware they have been a victim of systemic racism.

The Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice maintains a national registry of survivors to create records and collect stories from this dark chapter in Canada’s  History. In order to apply for the Healing Support Fund, survivors must first add themselves to the national registry.

National Gathering For Survivors of Forced and Coerced Sterilization

In addition to the national registry and administering the Healing Support Fund, the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice is hosting a National Gathering in Ottawa March 7 to 9. The Gathering is meant to bring survivors and those who suspect they might be survivors together to support each other and bring healing strength to each other.

"Weaving Threads of Healing is the theme of our gathering because it is individual threads coming together that build the strength of the collective stories of survivors,” said Board Co-chair Christa Big Canoe. "Each individual thread is important to the weaving process. This is how we build our collective story.”

The National Gathering is an opportunity for survivors to meet each other, share their experiences and amplify their voices while receiving support for healing.

"For many survivors, they are matriarchs, leaders, backbones of their communities despite their experiences with sterilization. The national gathering will provide them with time to focus on their own healing and wellness,” said Board Co-Chair Claudette Dumont Smith. "Often survivors feel alone or that they are the only one; this gathering will be a chance for them to connect with each other and build community.”

To learn more, visit reproductivejusticesurvivors.ca

“We know our readers’ time is valuable and we truly appreciate their support in completing this important survey,” says Leaha Hammond, Marketing & Account Director at Black Press Media.

Your feedback plays a vital role in guiding local businesses as they adapt to a growing and diverse population. By sharing your shopping habits and future plans — whether it’s routine purchases or major decisions like buying a car or changing your dentist — you help businesses anticipate and meet community needs.

“This survey provides key insights into the short – and long-term needs of B.C. residents, strengthening local economies and supporting businesses across the province,” Leaha says.

At the end of the survey, you’ll be asked to provide your name, address and phone number to be entered for the $1,200 prize draw. Your information will only be used for the contest and will remain confidential.

“Your voice matters. By completing the 2025 reader survey, you’re not only supporting B.C. business owners but also helping us get to know the needs of our readers,” Leaha says.

Don’t miss this opportunity to help shape the future of your community. Complete Black Press Media's 2025 online reader survey today and be entered to win a $1,200 prize. Visit https://www.pulsepoll.com/readerfeedback/ to participate.

Taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 27, the expo offers a platform for those seeking employment or educational opportunities to connect directly with potential employers and academic institutions.

Hosted at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Prince George, at 444 George St. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance.

“The expo is all about providing a platform for people to connect directly with potential employers and educators,” says Events Manager Amanda Perley.

A diverse range of employers and educational institutions will be on hand, including BC Corrections, Cariboo Rail and Northern Health among many others. 

Educational institutions and programs include:

• Canadian Vocational Training Centre
• ISS of BC – Prince George Career Paths
• Northern Lights College
• Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy
• UA Piping Industry College of BC

“With more than 30 exhibitors, attendees will have the chance to explore a variety of career paths and educational programs,” Perley says, noting that the participating organizations are actively seeking to fill various positions and enrol students in programs. 

Organized by Black Press Events, known for hosting career and education expos across British Columbia and Alberta, the expo caters to a broad audience, including recent graduates, individuals considering a career change, and those looking to enhance their skills through further education.

"Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time or seeking to advance your career, this event offers valuable resources and connections," Perley adds.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with recruiters and admissions representatives, gain insights into various industries, and learn about the qualifications and skills in demand.

"Our goal is to facilitate meaningful interactions that can lead to employment or educational advancements," Perley says. "We are committed to supporting communities by connecting individuals with opportunities that align with their career and educational aspirations."

For more information and to reserve free tickets, visit the official event page at careerexpos.blackpress.ca/pg1-2025.

It wasn’t long before they realized they’d need to speak up to ensure their mother was well-cared for, more than ever before.

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, an opportunity for people to have conversations about dementia. The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is recognizing Alzheimer’s Awareness Month by sharing the experiences of people like the Morin family.

Since making the decision to move their mother into care, Janell’s children have faced significant challenges in ensuring that care is culturally sensitive and culturally safe. “Look, this is the generation of Indian Residential School Survivors who are now needing this type of support and we need better solutions to support them properly,” Peter says. “This is also reconciliation and it needs to be addressed now.”

When Janell was first diagnosed, the family learned about the disease together, which included honouring their experience by using language that felt right. Rather than referring to “Alzheimer’s disease,” Kathleen prefers the phrase, “the heart always knows.”

“I hate that I say a white man’s name 100 times a day to speak about our mom’s experience,” Peter says. “Indigenous families have to use a white person’s name in order to make a relationship with this experience, so ‘the heart always knows‘ is so beautiful because it doesn’t give away our power.”

It’s not easy for them to share their journey but they would not be doing so if they didn’t believe that change is possible.

“I really want the story to be shared,” Kathleen says. “I want my mom’s legacy to live on because she would want her story to be shared.”

Read their full story.

Take part

In January, caregivers and people living with dementia will explore this year’s Alzheimer’s Awareness Month theme by sharing their unique journeys living with the disease in two virtual panel discussions.

• Lived experience: Different roadmaps for dementia on January 15 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. PT

• Lived experience: Different roadmaps for caregiving on January 22 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. PT.

Find support

If you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s First Link^® Dementia Helpline for information and support (toll-free in B.C. only):

• English: 1-800-936-6033 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu: 1-833-674-5003 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

No one thinks they’d forget about their money, but it happens more often than you might think. It can be as simple as someone moving away and not updating their address or forgetting to cash a cheque. In other cases, the money wasn’t forgotten, instead people may not even be aware they are entitled to the funds, such as money from an inheritance or a court case.

Over the last 20 years, BC Unclaimed has reunited nearly 11,000 British Columbians with their money.  For many people, particularly those living on fixed incomes, finding unclaimed funds can be a life-changing experience. Most claims are relatively small, but there have been significant payouts as well. The largest single claim BC Unclaimed has paid was a staggering $1.98 million from a court case.

Sherry MacLennan, the Society’s executive director, encourages everyone to check the BC Unclaimed database regularly to see if they have money waiting for them: "We receive new submissions of unclaimed money monthly so make it a habit to check our database. You never know if there's a windfall waiting for you."

It’s easy to find out if you have unclaimed funds in your name – simply visit BC Unclaimed and type in your name! If you do find a match, there’s a straightforward verification process to confirm your identity as the rightful owner.

Aside from reuniting people with their unclaimed money, BC Unclaimed also unlocks the power of forgotten funds to change lives. Through its partnership with the Vancouver Foundation, unclaimed funds are allocated to support crucial social programs that improve the quality of life of all British Columbians.

B.C. is currently the only North America jurisdiction where a portion of inactive funds are donated each year for charitable purposes. This unique program is a “win-win” for B.C. residents. There’s no cost to search for or claim forgotten funds through BC Unclaimed, and you can claim the money at any time.

To check if you have any unclaimed money, visit bcunclaimed.ca and start your search today!