Spring is just around the corner in the Cariboo-Chilcotin — and it’s being ushered in by its customary telltale signs.
First, we’ll soon see the beginning of the calving season, with our ranchers preparing to greet the year’s earliest additions already.
With their long hours and punishing work ethic, our ranchers exemplify the hardiness of the cowboy spirit that has defined our backcountry for generations. They played an integral part in establishing the Cariboo-Chilcotin we know today, and they continue to play a vital role in our communities and in the cattle industry that is so important to our regional and provincial economies.
During this grueling time, let’s all make an effort to show our appreciation for our ranchers.
Spring also means Chamber of Commerce Week in B.C. – this week is a great time to show our appreciation for the volunteers who commit their time to serving the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce. These men and women not only work hard to support our businesses and grow our economy, but also regularly make an effort to give back to our community by supporting local events and clubs.
And finally — we see spring in the start of a new season for many of our clubs. Whether it’s soccer, baseball, spring hockey or 4-H, our communities have a wide variety of options for kids looking to develop their skills and learn new ones. For our kids and grandkids, involvement in clubs like these is a great way to make friends and have fun while staying active.
However, I would also encourage the rest of us to give these clubs some thought. Especially as the new season begins, many of them will be looking for volunteers and support from parents or grandparents. If you have the time, I encourage you to consider signing up to help out.
This spring, I’d like to extend my thanks to all these important members of our communities – to our ranchers, the Williams Lake Chamber, and all our volunteers.
Contact MLA Barnett’s constituency office: Phone: (250) 305-3800, e-mail: donna.barnett.mla@leg.bc.ca.
Donna Barnett is the Liberal MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin.