Raven feathers hanging have been found on local property here in Sayward.

Asking $55.00 shipping is additional.

Measures approximately 38″×5.75″.

Phone

778.288.5558

Facebook

Carole’s Inspirations

Store

1581 Sayward Road
Sayward, BC
V0P 1R0

“I don’t think mom will ever come back.” Nah, she will. You’ll see. In British Columbia.

Phone

778.386.5167

Email

Dene@FotoMoods.com

Web

Fotomoods.com

As the storm season approaches, many homeowners prepare by securing windows, stocking up on emergency supplies, and ensuring their roofs are in good condition. However, one crucial task often overlooked is cleaning out the house gutters. While it might seem like a minor chore, keeping your gutters clean can significantly impact your home’s protection during heavy rains and storms. Here’s why it’s so important:

Prevent Water Damage

Gutters are designed to direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation. When gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, water can overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, walls, and basement. This can lead to extensive water damage, mold growth, and structural issues that can be costly to repair.

Avoid Roof Damage

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto the roof, leading to rotting wood, damaged shingles, and leaks. Over time, this can compromise the integrity of your roof and result in expensive repairs or even a full roof replacement. By keeping your gutters clean, you ensure that water flows properly off your roof and away from your home.

Prevent Pest Infestations

Debris-filled gutters create an ideal environment for pests such as mosquitoes, rodents, and birds. These unwanted guests can cause additional damage to your home and pose health risks to your family. Regular gutter cleaning helps eliminate these potential breeding grounds and keeps your home pest-free.

Protect Landscaping

Overflowing gutters can erode soil and damage plants, flowers, and shrubs around your home. Excessive water can wash away mulch and create unsightly ditches in your landscaping. By ensuring your gutters are clear, you protect your garden and maintain your home’s curb appeal.

Increase Gutter Longevity

Routine maintenance and cleaning extend the life of your gutters. When debris accumulates, it can cause gutters to sag, bend, or even detach from the house. Properly maintained gutters are less likely to suffer from these issues, saving you money on replacements and repairs.

Ensure Proper Drainage

During storm season, heavy rainfall can quickly overwhelm your gutter system if it’s not functioning correctly. Clean gutters ensure that rainwater is efficiently channeled away from your home, preventing water from pooling around the foundation and causing potential flooding.

Tips for Cleaning Gutters

• Safety First: Always use a sturdy ladder and wear gloves to protect your hands. It’s also a good idea to have a friend nearby in case you need assistance.
• Remove Debris: Use a scoop or small garden trowel to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from the gutters.
• Flush with Water: After removing the bulk of the debris, use a garden hose to flush out any remaining dirt and check for proper water flow.
• Check for Damage: Inspect your gutters for signs of damage, such as rust, holes, or loose brackets, and make necessary repairs.
• Install Gutter Guards: Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters, making future cleanings easier.

In conclusion, cleaning your gutters is a vital part of home maintenance, especially during storm season. It helps prevent water damage, protects your roof and landscaping, avoids pest infestations, and ensures proper drainage. By taking the time to clean your gutters, you safeguard your home against the challenges of heavy rains and storms, ultimately saving yourself time, money, and stress. So, as you prepare for the storm season, don’t forget to add gutter cleaning to your to-do list!

Apply Now for the Wildfire Community Preparedness Day Award!

We are accepting applications for the Wildfire Community Preparedness Day Award, offering $500 to support community events and projects that enhance resilience against wildfires.

What is Wildfire Community Preparedness Day?

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is a nationwide campaign that encourages individuals of all ages to take meaningful actions to reduce wildfire risks in their homes, neighborhoods, and communities. In 2025, this important day will be celebrated on Saturday, May 3.

Organize an event, submit your application today, and help make a lasting impact on your community’s wildfire preparedness!

Click here to get started.

At its inaugural meeting on November 27, 2024, the SRD Board re-elected Director Mark Baker, Mayor of Sayward, to a third term as Board Chair.

“I am truly grateful for the Board’s continued confidence in me as I serve as Chair for another year,” said Mark Baker. “I look forward to working with the Board and staff to advance our strategic goals, deliver quality services, and advocate for our region’s interests with the Province.”

Director Matthew Jack, representing the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations, was elected as Vice-Chair for the first time.

“I am honoured to serve as Vice-Chair and look forward to working alongside Chair Baker and the Board to strengthen Indigenous relations, promote good governance, and address the priorities of our region in a way that reflects the needs and interests of the communities we represent,” said Matthew Jack.

Scope

The Labourer – Operator in Training (OIT) is an entry-level position within the Village’s Public Works Department in service to the community. This role is designed to provide hands-on-training and experience in the operations, maintenance, and repair of municipal infrastructure systems, including water treatment, distribution, wastewater management, and road operations to name a few. Under the general direction and guidance of the Public Works  Supervisor, the Labourer (OIT) is responsible for assisting the Public Works Supervisor and Utility Operator with the efficient and effective operations and maintenance of the Village’s assets. The core job duties of this position are fulsome.

They include:

• Participate in on-the-job training to learn the operation, maintenance, and repair of municipal systems, including water, wastewater, roads, and stormwater infrastructure.
• Complete required coursework and certifications as outlined by the Village and regulatory bodies.
• Shadow senior operators to gain practical experience and knowledge.
• Assist in maintaining the mechanical systems for the effective operations of the Kelsey Centre including but not limited to the pool, hot tub, and general building systems.
• Assist in routine inspections, monitoring, and maintenance of water and wastewater systems inclusive of recording and reporting readings.
• Support tasks such as pipe repairs, valve maintenance, hydrant flushing, and sampling in accordance with operating permits.
• Learn to operate pumps, motors, and other system components under supervision.
• Assist in maintaining roads, sidewalks, and municipal properties, including snow removal, street sweeping, and pothole repairs.
• Operate small tools and equipment such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, and hand tools.
• Learn to operate and maintain equipment such as trucks, backhoes, loaders, and other specialized tools under supervision.
• Perform basic inspections and routine maintenance on tools and machinery.
• Adhere to all workplace safety protocols and participate in safety training.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and report hazards or unsafe conditions.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
• Support the development of annual reports by supplying the necessary information.
• Order, receive, and appropriately handle chemicals necessary to operate the water system.
• Learn how to operate, monitor, troubleshoot the Village’s Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in conjunction with internal and external support.
• Assist with private water shutdowns and service locates.
• Responsible for water meter reading, recording, and reporting.
• Responsible for the repair or replacement of defective water meters.
• Provide the necessary information to enable appropriate responds to complaints from the public regarding water quality.
• Participate in rotational on call as required.

Other

• Provide assistance including but not limited to serving within the Villages Emergency Operations Centre in preparation for, during, or in response to an emergent situation affecting the Village.
• Ability to interpret and apply Village’s bylaws, procedures, policies, permits, and other written materials.
• Other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Highschool diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid BC Driver’s License (Class 5 or higher) along with a driving record that demonstrates acceptable driving behaviour is required.
• EOCP Certification necessary to operate the water treatment plan and wastewater treatment facility, i.e. Small Water Systems and Class 1 Wastewater Treatment Facility or sign a commitment to obtain certification as a  condition of employment is required.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in a similar role is required.
• Basic First Aid (Formerly OFA Level 1) required.
• Other certificates are required or a commitment to obtain as a condition of employment includes Chlorine Handling Certificate, WHMIS, and Confined Space Entry.
• Sound analytical thinking, exercise of professional judgement, planning, prioritization, and execution skills.

Skills

• Some experience or familiarity with mechanical, structural, electrical systems is preferred.
• Able to operate heavy equipment such as a snow plough, grader/backhoe, bobcat or similar is considered a strong asset.
• Basic understanding of IT systems and ability to liaise with IT professionals.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Key Competencies

• Professional demeanor with strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Interested applicants can apply by sending their cover letter and resume to CAO@SaywardValley.ca.