Two weeks from today, first-time homebuyers can begin to take advantage of the new B.C. Home Owner Mortgage and Equity Partnership program.

From the opening the newest hospital on Haida Gwaii, to preparing for construction of a new Centre for Mental Health and Addictions, 2016 strengthened health care for families around the province and 2017 is expected to continue to do so.

The start of a new year marks a fresh beginning full of opportunity. If a new job is on your “to-do” list, consider a future in a rewarding career in the trades.

Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement:

Finding success stories in British Columbia during 2016 has not been difficult. The tourism sector had a banner year. B.C.’s retailers are leading the nation in sales growth. Those involved in film and production have solidified the province’s global reputation for providing the services required for major film and television productions. And B.C. continues to incubate and be a magnet for the technology industry.

For the first time, Oliver is the top name for boys born in B.C. according to the Vital Statistics Agency.

Drivers are advised that Highway 1 north of Hope and Highway 5 (Coquihalla) are fully closed in both directions due to heavy snowfall. The length of the closure of Highway 1 is unknown at this time, however the Coquihalla is expected to open at 5 p.m.

The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who died after a motor vehicle incident near Hope on Dec. 15, 2016.

The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a woman who died on Dec. 26, 2016, following a residential structure fire in Smithers.

2017 is ready to ring in where 2016 is leaving off for employment growth in British Columbia – and that’s at the top spot in Canada.