On Tuesday, Sept. 6 the Vavenby division of the Canfor sawmill reopened after being closed for two years. Most of the workers going back are very happy as it was tough during those two years finding work - elsewhere unless a person was fully qualified or a friend or relative got work for you. Living without a job and therefore less income made it very stressful on family life.
The mill has been upgraded. Basically it is what Canfor previously had but a better version that is going to do a lot more and do it better. Some of the workers feel that it could be stressful learning how to use the new equipment but one employee feels that they will be given time to learn it. Some think it could just be stressful getting up and going back to work after two years. Most are looking forward to it though.
Some of the employees said that Canfor has a good log selections and one of the best supplies. The majority of the workers do not feel the mill will shut down again because of the amount of money Canfor has spent on upgrading. They feel it is more secure now. Canfor also has some new markets.
New hours at school
Tuesday was also the first day of school. Vavenby Primary opened at 10:30 with six students showing up from Kindergarten to Grade 3, teacher Julie Boyes, and custodian Val Bellows. All the students appeared very excited for the start of school and only one said he didn't have a good summer. In August Nathaneal Toscano broke his arm badly when jumping off a trampoline.
There are new hours for the Vavenby school this year. Classes begin at 8:50 a.m. and end at 2:55 p.m.