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Victoria kicks in for Games Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com The 2015 Canada Winter Games are getting closer. Some venues have undergone major changes, and on Friday, the first of those sites was officially opened. A plaque in the biathlon area at Otway Nordic Centre was unveiled by Pippa Roots of the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club and Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes. While the facility may be open, it’s not quite ready to use yet, says ski club president Kevin Pettersen. “We still have one wall on the shooting range to be finished,” he said at the ceremony. “We’re in good shape for the trail system, but we ran out of fasteners for the one wall.” The biathlon range has been moved from a location back in the woods (as it were) to a spot closer to Otway Road, with a large berm acting as a shield. “That is a six-metre high wall of earth,” Pettersen said. “It took a lot of work, but it’s what was needed.” The Otway Nordic Centre will be the site for biathlon and cross-country skiing during the Games, which start Feb. 15, 2015. “We have a couple of test events coming up,” Pettersen said. “We have the Western Biathlon Championships here at the beginning of February, and then the Western Canadians for cross-country skiing a couple of weeks later. “We’ll have about 500 athletes here for the skiing, which is actually more than we will have for the Games, so it will be a great test of the facility.” The biathlon range has 30 shooting positions, which he says makes it easier to hold large events. “You can have more people on the course at the same time, instead of having to stack them up if you didn’t have enough positions.” The unveiling capped a busy day for Oakes and local MLAs Shirley Bond and Mike Morris. “We’ve been on a tour of the venues,”
Allan WISHART/Free Press Pippa Roots, left, of the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club and Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes unveil a plaque Friday morning at the Otway Nordic Centre, officially opening the biathlon venue which will be used for the 2015 Canada Winter Games.
Oakes said, “and they are looking fantastic. People always hear I’m the minister of sport and they ask, ‘So what is your sport?’ “I have to admit I don’t really have one. I’m not really athletic, but then I remember spending a lot of time cross-country skiing around Quesnel when I was younger. It’s just that you don’t think of that as a sport. It was part of growing up in the region.” Oakes also took the occasion to announce a couple of provincial grants for the Games, including $125,000 for test events and $150,000 for the Northern Sport Strategy. “The strategy is an important program for us,” she said. “It aims to increase participation in sports, and help support high-performance athletes.”
Morris said that while the Games are still a little more than a year away, that time will go fast. “We started planning security for the 2010 Olympics, when I was with the RCMP, about 10 years before, and it still seemed we didn’t have enough time at the end.” Morris was also looking forward to the Games from a personal standpoint. “We live just across the river from here, and I’m looking forward to hearing the cheers from this venue during the Games.” Games CEO Stu Ballantyne said while Otway is the first of the facilities requiring major work to be officially opened, it won’t be the last. “We’re looking now at an official opening
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for Kin 1 on Feb. 15, and there will be a couple of other sites which will also be finished around then. “The Outdoor Ice Oval will probably be the last facility opened, since they’re still waiting for a building to be finished.” Two test events, for wheelchair basketball and artistic gymnastics, have already taken place and things will get busy in the new year. “We have 10 test events in about a 12-week period,” Ballantyne said. “The last couple will be figure skating next November, and longtrack speed skating at the oval. “That event won’t take place until January, but that’s good because it will be a test of the venue and facilities as they’ll be a month later for the Games.”
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Work on new Delta hotel underway Bill Phillips editor@pgfreepress.com
Mayor Shari Green likes the fact that the city skyline will soon include two cranes … one working on the Wood Innovation and Design Centre, the other on the $35 million Delta Prince George hotel. “Prince George is changing for the better, and we are thrilled to welcome our newest corporate citizen, the Delta Prince George,” Green said as the official groundbreaking was held Nov. 25. About 50 people braved the cool wind for the sod-turning featuring, along with Green, Delta Hotels’ president and CEO Ken Greene, Clint Dahl of River City Hotel Management Corp., MLAs Shirley Bond and Mike Morris, and Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dominic Frederick. “This project, right here, we couldn’t be more proud of,” Greene said. “It will create more than 100 jobs … This project really represents all the things that Delta’s doing. We are transforming our brand to be the best, four-star, full-service, upscale hotel in all of Canada.” He said the hotel will embody the new design of all Delta hotels in that all 170 rooms will be technologically enabled. It will have a full-service restaurant and lounge, a fitness centre, heated indoor pool, 7,000 square feet of meeting space including a 4,000 square foot ballroom. “All the ingredients for success are here,” he said. Delta Prince George is owned and being developed by River City Hotel Management Corporation, and will be managed by Delta Hotels and Resorts. Over 15 months of construction, there will be an average of 120 construction jobs. Dahl said the project, which got its start about three years ago, took a lot of grit and determination. “It’s going to be an awesome thing for 2015 to showcase (the city’s) 100th anniversary,” said Dahl. “… This is a significant private investment into the heart of Prince George that speaks
Bill PHILLIPS/Free Press Delta Hotels president and CEO Ken Greene (left), Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dominic Frederick, Mayor Shari Green, Jobs Minister Shirley Bond, Prince George-Mackenzie MLA MIke Morris, and Clint Dahl of River City Hotel Management Corp. officially break ground on the new Delta Hotel under construction in downtown Prince George.
volumes to the confidence the proponents have in our city and the region.” Delta Hotels and Resorts currently has nine properties in British Columbia and 42 properties across Canada. The hotel development marks somewhat of a resurgence of hotels in Prince George in the past few years with the Ramada Inn and Coast Inn of the North both undergoing extensive renovations and the Sandman Signature Suites hotel opening on Highway 16.
Pinnacle Renewable Energy wins two export awards Pinnacle Renewable Energy has captured two is that the raw materials used to produce pellets BC Export Awards. (wood fibre residuals) were considered waste only The company claimed the Exporter of the Year a few years ago and are now used to produce a award and the Premier’s Award for Job Creation at critical renewable source of energy for some of the the awards gala in Vancouver late last month. largest electrical generating facilities in the UK, JaThe company was founded more than 20 years pan, Italy and other countries for both commercial ago by the Swaan family of Quesnel and is the and residential consumers, while at the same time longest established pellet producer in western providing an important source of revenue to the Canada. Today, the company operates six pellet B.C. forest industry and an increasingly important plants across B.C. with a production capacity well employer for many B.C. communities. over one million tons annually. The BC Export Awards celebrate industry excelAll Pinnacle plants operate 24 hours a day, seven lence with nine sector awards and three individual days a week and are located in an arc centered on awards, including the Leadership Award, InternaPrince George, with Burns Lake and Houston on tional Business Studies Award and the Exporter of the western arm and Meadowbank, Quesnel, Wilthe Year Award. liams Lake and Armstrong going south through very application was carefully evaluated by a the Cariboo. selection committee using criteria established for Pinnacle exports to a variety of investment each award to select the top three finalists for all grade customers in Asia and Europe. In the last 15 nine sectors. months Pinnacle has or CLEAN • COMFORTABLE • AFFORDABLE • QUIET will secure 100 per cent SPECIAL! ROOMS STARTING AT of its existing productive STAY 9 capacity until 2020 at NIGHTS industry leading prices. GET These contracts have 1 NIGHT a total value of approxiFREE *Some conditions apply mately $2 billion which MENTION OR will be supplied by their economyinnpg@gmail.com six pellet mills through1915 3rd Ave, Prince George BRING THIS AD IN 14 FOR 10% DISCOUNT 250.563.7106 out northern B.C. What’s FROM REGULAR RATE www.economyinn.ca *Expires Dec. 31, 2013 even more impressive
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is now known as an SRT. Unveiled last year at the Detroit Auto Show, Dodge dealers also have great trucks to offer, startDodge’s new compact sedan, the Dart, is at the foreing with the Journey CUV, the most popular of its segfront of that company’s recent major changes. Indeed, ment in Canada. The now-legendary Grand Caravan the Dart is the very first product built in cooperation van continues to be offered as a commercial vehicle, with Italian manufacturer Fiat, Chrysler’s new owner. the Ram C/V. The Durango CUV still is in the Dodge Based on the platform of an Alfa-Romeo, one of line-up, although the Ram pick-up trucks are now a Fiat’s cars, the Dart looks big but it is still a compact brand by themselves. car. This front-wheel drive is powered by one of three four-cylinder engines, available with a standard shift or automatic transmission. The Dart is also available in a performance R/T version. Beside the Dart is the midsized Avenger, another front-wheel-drive sedan. This one is available with a four-cylinder engine or the mighty Pentastar V-6. The biggest Dodge is still the recently redesigned Charger sedan. This mighty all-American car comes with rear- or all-wheel drive and a Pentastar V-6 or one of the potent HEMI V-8s. Dodge also markets a great-looking sporty coupe, the superb Challenger, available in many versions including the powerful 392. There is another sports car in the family, the unique Viper, which is all-new from bumper to bumper. Note that The Dart signals new things to come from Dodge. the Viper is no longer considered a Dodge; rather, it THACKER
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New detachment almost ready Bill Phillips editor@pgfreepress.com
It’s not every day Mounties in red serge greet those entering a police station and, once inside, visitors are greeted with the smell of sweetgrass. But that was exactly the scene when the new $38.95 million Prince George RCMP detachment was unveiled Nov. 16. A group of about 30 guests, including Canada’s top cop, Commissioner Bob Paulson, city council, and the media were on hand for the official opening and tour of the 5,912 square metre facility on Victoria Street. Paulson wasn’t the only high-ranking RCMP officer in attendance, and he pointed out that Prince George is a “construction zone” for police officers. “There is something profound that happens to RCMP officers when they come to Prince George,” he said, referring to some of the people in attendance: B.C.’s top officer Deputy Commissioner Craig Callens, who started his career in Prince George; Saskatchewan’s top officer, Chief Superintendent Brenda Butterworth-Carr, who served as Superintendent in Prince George for two years; Deputy Commissioner Peter Angel; and MLA Mike Morris. who was the North District Chief Superintendent before he retired Bill PHILLIPS/Free Press from the force. Mayor Shari Green, along with North District RCMP Chief Superintendent Rod Booth (left), Deputy Commissioner “There is no better place to start one’s career,” said Callens. Craig Callens, Prince George Superintendent Eric Stubbs, RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson, and council cut the ribbon to officially open the new Prince George RCMP detachment. And while the RCMP’s “We will continue to relentlessly work to drive down crime in this comtop brass came from the Federation of Canadian Municimunity,” said Stubbs. “But now in a work environment that will do nothing was in town palities’ Green Municipal Fund that contributed but help our members achieve more success.” for the event, $500,000. And for those who might celebrate a little too much ... take note that the so was the But it will be Superintendent Eric Stubbs and city’s top the Prince George detachment’s 140 officers who drunk tank now has a heated floor. brass as city will actually move into the new digs in a few council was weeks time. And for Stubbs, who will move into 8 BC’S EYEWEAR HEADQUARTERS on hand too. a corner office overlooking Fourth Avenue and The new Victoria Street, moving out of the cramped quardetachment ters on Brunswick Street will be welcome. is, after all, a “This is a truly significant event, he said. city build“We’ve been looking forward to this day and this ing. The building, for years ... We are going to move into work started a fantastic, extraordinary building.” two mayors And that it is. The building is Leadership in ago and Energy and Environmental Design certified. both former Roof and parking surfaces will reflect heat, mayors who energy use is slated to be 61 per cent below the worked Model National Energy Code, solar panels will to get the be used to for the hot water system, a solar wall funding for preheats the fresh air intake, a groundwater well the buildwill be used to provide cooling, storm water is ing, Colin collected and is used in the toilets, and it is conKinsley and nected to the city’s district heating system. Dan Rogers, Stubbs also pointed out that the detachwere in atment works closely with the Lheidli T’enneh tendance. and members smudged the facility prior to the But it was the current mayor and council who ceremonies. brought the project home. (complete pair) “This building will be a testament, for years to come, of the priority that council We will beat CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ................... 890 Vancouver Street • 1-250.562-2454 any competitor’s has placed on infra(ASK FOR DETAILS) CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE .......................... 1100 Patricia Blvd • 1-250.561-7600 written quote structure investment in this city,” said Mayor TOURISM PRINCE GEORGE ..........................1300 1st Avenue • 1-250.562-3700 Shari Green. “I’m very INITIATIVES PRINCE GEORGE ............. 201-1300 1st Avenue • 1-250.564-0282 Seiko Digital Christmas proud to be part of the Progressive OVER 1,000 FRAMES GIFT SERVICE BC ........................................................................... • 1-250.565-4488 building of this muchlenses CERTIFICATES ital needed detachment ... 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Hydro rates to go up in April Tom Fletcher arts@pgfreepress.com VICTORIA – The first of a series of BC Hydro rate increases takes effect in April 2014, adding $8 a month to the average residential power bill. Rate increases of nine per cent next year and six per cent in 2015 are the highest of a series of increases over five years announced Monday by Energy Minister Bill Bennett. The B.C. Utilities Commission will be directed to set rate increases that total up to 28 per cent over the next five years, then determine what rates are needed for the following five years, Bennett said. Commercial rates are going up the same amount. Bennett acknowledged that rate increases are being kept low by using a “rate smoothing� account that defers more than $1 billion of the utility’s debt. That account won’t begin to be paid down until after 2020. BC Hydro CEO Charles Reid said the latest rate increases are driven mainly by a large increase in capital spending, including seismic refits of old dams at Campbell River and Ruskin, turbine
expansions at two Kootenay power dams and other upgrades. BC Hydro’s “big build� era of 1973 to 1982 produced rate increases totalling 113 per cent. BC Hydro cited an annual survey by Hydro Quebec that shows BC Hydro customers currently pay the third lowest rates in North America. Montreal and Winnipeg customers pay less, and Seattle and Miami residents pay slightly more. NDP energy critic John Horgan said
Bennett avoided the impact of private power purchases on BC Hydro’s rate increases. “We’re going to have increased debt for the next five years,� Horgan said. “They’re going to continue to take a dividend from a company that can’t afford to pay one, and the consequences for people are going to be higher costs.� Bennett said the 10-year plan calls for the government to “wean itself off � divi-
dends from the utility, but the five years of reductions don’t start until 2018. The government has instructed BC Hydro to shut down the gas-fired Burrard Thermal generating station in Port Moody by 2016, saving an estimated $14 million a year. The forecast electricity surplus over the 10-year plan allows that, but the facility will continue to be staffed for its grid stability function, Reid said.
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University students Karl Domes, left, Harold Airell and Becky Dochstader entertain shoppers at the popular UNBC Farmers’ Market.
Province commits to seniors advocate
Email a resume with names and phone numbers of 3 references and copies of tickets to
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B.C.’s first seniors’ advocate, Health Minister Terry Lake announced recently. “We want to find the best person for the job, someone who will give seniors a strong voice in British Columbia,� said Lake, in a press release. “The Public Service Agency will lead a national executive search to find the right person to develop this important role.�
As with most executive competitions, candidates will be screened and interviewed for suitability, with the successful candidate being appointed through Order-in-Council. The competition will close on Dec. 13, 2013. “This role is important to British Columbians, especially our nearly 700,000 seniors and the people who
care for them,� said Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for Seniors, Linda Larson. “We need to get it right, and that is why we have initiated a Canada-wide search to find the very best person to advocate for B.C. seniors.� The seniors’ advocate will work collaboratively with seniors, families, policy makers, service providers and
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others to identify solutions to systemic issues and make recommendations to government to improve the welfare of seniors. “Every senior deserves to live with dignity and security and to expect certain standards of care,� said Daniel Fontaine, CEO of the BC Care Providers Association. “We are pleased with the decision to move forward with an executive search and look forward to the appointment of B.C.’s first seniors’ advocate.� Establishing a seniors’ advocate was a commitment made in government’s Seniors Action Plan released on Feb. 14, 2012. Following public consultations across the province, government introduced Bill 10, the Seniors Advocate Act, to allow the creation of the Office of a Seniors’ Advocate, which passed on March 14, 2013.
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Boundary Road opens - indoors Bill Phillips editor@pgfreepress.com The heavy wet snow kept more than motorists off the roads November 15. It kept a group of local politicians off the newly completed Boundary Road Connector. The inclement weather forced the ribbon cutting for the $28 million project indoors. Work on the Boundary Road Connector began in June 2010, to establish a direct route between Highway 16 East and Highway 97 South. The connector opens up the Airport Logistics Park for development. The connector also provides intermodal connectivity to both rail yards and will reduce congestion. This connection will also improve the safety of the Dangerous Goods Route within the city. Construction of the Boundary Road Connector was supported by grants from the Building Canada Fund – Communities Component, and received $7.5 million in federal funding, $7.5 million in provincial funding, $6.5 million in City of Prince George funding, and $6.5 million in private developer funding. That private funding came largely from developer Henry Rempel, who credited the city with helping him get land out of the Agricultural Land Reserve. “I want to construct the Prince George Logistics Park,” Rempel said. “I want to construct it on both sides of Boundary Road from one end to the other.” He said Boundary Road will benefit the entire community.
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Bill PHILLIPS/Free Press MLA Shirley Bond (left), MLA Mike Morris, Henry Rempel, Airport CEO John Gibson, Mayor Shari Green, and Coun. Cameron Stolz (representing MP Bob Zimmer) cut the ribbon to officially open the $28 million Boundary Road, which will allow development of the Airport Logistics Park.
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The urban look hits the trails this winter Figure-hugging lines, splendid colours, and cool details — winter sports clothing is more stylish than ever. The urban style is the big trend on this season’s trails. Made of warm, light fabrics, winter jackets and pants are much less cumbersome without losing any of their functionality and great looks. Best of all, they still
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ProďŹ le: sports maniac
A few tips
Do you see winter as a time to be active? Then don’t waste any more time and head out for your favourite ski hill. On the program: slope after challenging slope, whether your preferred sport is downhill skiing, snowboarding, or snowblading. For some action-packed fun put on your skates and participate in some boisterous hockey games or challenge your endurance skills with a cross country ski or snowshoe outing.
A good winter sports jacket should be: • waterproof • breathable • warm (depending on your needs and the sport) • well-finished (have a zip with a double slider, interior and exterior pockets, powder skirt, a hood that’s big enough to fit over a hat and goggles, adjustable tightening cords near the hood, at the waist, and in the hem of the jacket) • comfortable
ProďŹ le: thrill seeker Do you love an adrenaline rush? Winter offers a panoply of extreme sports, especially if you like climbing, heli-skiing, luge, or snow-kiting.
There are mountains of activities to enjoy during the winter!
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Practical for the mountains, yet trendy for the city, removable hoods make for jackets that can be transformed to go from a sporty look to an urban style in a flash. And you can’t beat two-for-one when it comes to the family budget! Quality fur trim on hoods and leather details on zips and pockets are still the trend. Generally speaking, the colours of jackets and pants are very discreet. Earth tones and deep, saturated colours are suitable for every occasion, leaving bolder prints and contrasting colours a little to the side this year. Whimsy can be found in the accessories, with fleece lined hats and caps featuring big, bold stitches.
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If you’re a winter sport enthusiast, it’s a sure bet that you are always a little bit impatient for the first snowstorm of the year. After Halloween, did you put your hat, gloves, and boots by the front door, just ready and waiting for a good snowfall? If so, that’s great, because during the winter season there are all sorts of activities ready and waiting for you! Here are a few suggestions.
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Your guide to
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ATVs in the category G are recommended for use only by those aged 16 and older. ATVs in the category S are recommended for use only by an experienced operator aged 16 and older. Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) highly recommends that all ATV riders take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887 (in the U.S.) or the Canadian Safety Council at (613) 739-1535, ext. 227 (in Canada). ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective clothing. Always remember that riding and alcohol / drugs don’t mix. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never carry passengers. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Ride responsibly.
Year after year the Ski-Doo brand successfully introduces some kind of innovation into the world of the snowmobile. The year 2014 is no exception to this rule, with the Canadian manufacturer proposing new technologies that are sure to snowball in popularity. Apart from the new Freeride and Summit models, which are based on the REV-XM platform and the Rotax ACE 900 engine, Ski-Doo is also unveiling a few features to increase the comfort and safety of snowmobilers.
on while riding. The rMotion rear suspension is standard with the GSX, Freeride, Summit Sport, and Grand Touring SE and LE models.
For example, the two-seater Grand Touring LE is now equipped with the SilentDrive system, which reduces noise and vibrations from the track. Another great feature is the heated grips on models with an E-TEC engine, which will now keep 50 percent of their heat when the engine is idling. What’s more, the control units of models with an E-TEC engine now include new functions such as an over-revving warning device as well as a warning alarm to indicate that the parking brake is
Many snowmobilers will be interested to know that the MX Z X, MX Z TNT, Renegade Adrenaline, Renegade Backcountry, GSX LE, and Expedition Sport models are all assembled on a variation of the REV-XS platform. This chassis design reduces the weight of the sled, gives better wind protection, and facilitates the driver’s lateral movements. The REV-XM platform in the Freeride and Summit is more rigid and has wider, stronger running boards with snow evacuation holes.
The new ACE 900 three-cylinder fourstroke engine is equipped with an intelligent throttle control system that regulates acceleration and gas consumption through a choice of three driving modes: ECO, normal, and sport. This engine is also available with a “learning key�, which reduces the power of the engine.
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Hoban opens
Gateway gears up
office in P.G.
Teresa MALLAM/Free Press Prince George city employee Ian Hoag puts up colourful and seasonal Christmas banners along Victoria Street.
If you’re wondering who the best and brightest President Derek Dougherty. “Prince George ofup-and-coming professionals are in Prince George, fers great opportunities for early advancement to you may want to start with the Top 40 Under Forty young professionals.” list for 2013, announced recently by the Prince The ‘Top 40 Under Forty’ magazine publicaGeorge Chamber of Commerce. tion, complete with the bios and photos of all the The ‘Top 40 Under Forty’ initiative was introfinalists, is scheduled to go to print in early January duced in 2012 by the Prince George Chamber of 2014. Approximately 5,000 copies will be distribCommerce to celebrate young professionals and uted throughout Prince George and the region by showcase the successful and resourceful people mail and from various pickup locations. who choose to live and work in Prince George. The finalists are: Alex Castley, Allison Fedorkiw, The response to the call for nominees was overAndrew Kurjata, Arvinder Billing, Bryan Paice, whelming this year, with close to 100 capable Candice Manahan Coyne, Catherine McCarthy, young candidates being considered for the 40 Chris Kinch, Cindy Thomson, Cory Klein, David available spots. Mothus, Dustin Robin, Gaurav Parmar, Jacki Col“To see a 54 per cent increase in the number of lyer, Jason Morgan, Jennifer Brandle-McCall, Jernominees this year is both encouraging and inspir- emy Stewart, Jessica Quinn, Jillian Masson, Jodyne ing,” Chamber CEO Christie Ray said in a press Green, Joel McKay, John Kason, K. Travis Mor. release. “This kind of public enthusiasm indicates to us that the youthful energy of our city is one of our biggest assets.” The nomination Offering a full menu of both Canadian & Indo Cuisine process was open to the public over a fourEvery Day Lunch & Supper Buffet: week period during the Lunch 11:30am–2:30pm • Dinner 5pm–8:30pm month of September. Plus breakfast served all day EVERY day Nominees were judged independently, by a panel of local business people, according to their professional achievements, expeLUNCH BUFFET SUPPER BUFFET rience, leadership, One coupon per customer per visit. Not to be combined with any One coupon per customer per visit. Not to be combined with any other offer, promotion or discount. EXPIRES DEC. 31, 2013 innovative actions, other offer, promotion or discount. EXPIRES DEC. 31, 2013 responsibilities, success, www.barbequenation.ca | 1393 Central St. West, Prince George (Next to Bank of Montreal) and community involve250.564.2276 | barbequenation15@gmail.com ment. NOW OPEN 7:30am–10pm 7 days a week | Group Gatherings LICENSED “When you look over the list of Top 40 finalists, you don’t necessarNOW ily see the future leaders EN! OP of tomorrow; many of them are the leaders of today,” said Chamber 19
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Hoban Equipment Ltd., the contractor that recently completed the Highway 97 Sintich Road to Old Cariboo Highway project, is opening an office in the city. On November 15, Hoban Equipment Ltd. moved into its northern operations office located at 9064 Milwaukee Way. The new office will accommodate recent organizational growth and enable the company to continue to maintain superior service to its expanding clientele in northern British Columbia. “Everyone at Hoban is pleased to have our main operations office headquartered in Prince George,” said William Hoban, vice president of operations, in a press release. “The new location will allow our company to better facilitate projects, with a state of the art shop and facility, that will help reduce equipment downtime and increase the speed in which we can mobilize to our projects across western Canada.” The new office is currently in the process of hiring additional staff that will eventually be home to project support staff, estimators, surveyors, quality control, project management and a fully serviced shop and rebuild facility, but most importantly, the new operation is driven by HEL’s commitment to better serve its clients, Hoban said. “The new office will bring our team together allowing a more collaborative approach to the project management process,” he said.
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Pinnacle brings home export award Pinnacle Renewable Energy has captured two BC Export Awards. The company claimed the Exporter of the Year award and the Premier’s Award for Job Creation at the awards gala in Vancouver. The company was founded more than 20 years ago by the Swaan family of Quesnel and is the longest established pellet producer in western Canada. Today, the company operates six pellet plants across B.C. with a production capacity well over one million tons annually. All Pinnacle plants operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are located in an arc centered on Prince George, with Burns Lake and Houston on the western arm and Meadowbank, Quesnel, Williams Lake and Armstrong going south through the Cariboo. Pinnacle exports to a variety of investment grade customers in Asia and Europe. In the last 15 months Pinnacle has or will secure 100 per cent of its existing productive capacity until 2020 at industry leading prices. These contracts have a total value of approximately $2 billion which will be supplied by their six pellet mills throughout northern B.C. What’s even more impressive is that the raw materials used to produce pellets (wood fibre residuals) were considered waste only a few years ago and are now used to produce a critical renewable source of energy for some of the largest electrical generating facilities in the UK, Japan, Italy and other countries for both commercial and residential consumers, while at the same time providing an important source of revenue to the B.C. forest industry and an increasingly important employer for many B.C. communities. The BC Export Awards celebrate industry excellence with nine sector awards and three individual awards, including the Leadership Award, International Business Studies Award and the Exporter of the Year Award. Every application was carefully evaluated by a selection committee using criteria established for each award to select the top three finalists for all nine sectors.
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Nov 27th–Jan 1st Tour the lights atop Connaught Hill
Submitted Photo Canadian rockers Hedley will be returning to Prince George on Valentine’s Day next year as they kick off their coast-to-coast Wild Live Tour, in support of their fifth studio album, Wild Life.
Expires February 28th, 2014
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Mackenzie Manson Creek McLeod Lake New Hazelton Penny Prince George Quesnel Smithers
Southbank Summit Lake Telkwa Fort St. James Fort Fraser, Fraser Lake Endako Germanson Landing
Vanderhoof McBride, Blue River Dunster
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PREMIER’S BC NATURAL RESOURCE FORUM Our Resources - Our Future
Mike Morris, MLA, Prince George-Mackenzie, is pleased to present the
PREMIER’S BC NATURAL RESOURCE FORUM January 22 & 23, 2014 • Prince George Civic Centre, 808 Civic Plaza, Prince George, BC
PREMIER CLARK
CALVIN HELIN
Premier Christy Clark Luncheon Keynote Speaker, Wednesday, January 22, 2014
President, Eagle Spirit Energy Holding Luncheon Keynote Speaker, Thursday, January 23, 2014
SPEAKERS INCLUDE: · Steve Berna - COO, First Nations Finance Authority · Shirley Bond - Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour · Greg d’Avignon - President and CEO Business Council of British Columbia . Richard Dunn - Vice-President, Regulatory & Government Relations, Encana Corporation · James Gorman - President and CEO, Council of Forest Industries · Tony Jensen - President and CEO, Royal Gold Inc. · Greg Kist - President, Pacific NorthWest LNG · Annita McPhee - President and CEO of the Tahltan Central Council · Jacques Perron - CEO, Thompson Creek Metals
You can register online @
www.bcnaturalresourcesforum.com **Eight sessions with presentations on natural resource trends and developments including LNG, Forestry, Mining, Oil and Gas (registration required) **Full 2 day trade show (open to the public)
Teresa MALLAM/Free Press Helen Matson (left) and Yolande Bruno and other members of the Prince George Ladies Group raise funds for local charities but recently they hosted a fundraiser for secondary schools in Tanzania.
Local women helping out in Africa Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com They came into the Free Press on World Kindness Day (Nov. 13) to talk about helping people at home and abroad. The Prince George Ladies Group makes up hampers for distribution each month to help local needy families. But last month they hosted a fundraiser to further their efforts in helping children in Tanzania, Africa, to achieve their educational dreams with new schools and equipment. When member Yolande Bruno went to Tanzania in 2008 with her friend Conny Trommel, she saw a way that her church group could help out in a big way and reach out to more people with fewer dollars. A man they met had been given 50 acres of land with a brick structure on it – a perfect location for a future school. “In 2007, when the school opened, there were three students and one teacher in one building with no doors, no windows, just a drop hole for the latrine,” Bruno said. The government funds schools up to Grade 7, she explained, but after that, if parents don’t have the money to send them to privately funded
schools, their children don’t go any further with their education. Work was done in six phases with the group raising $16,000 for the first four phases. They have raised over $18,000 in total towards the educational needs of the students and teaches at Mgutwa School. Now the final stage has been reached. There are nine buildings on the site, three classrooms in one building, two dormitories, four bathrooms, accommodation for four teachers, a science laboratory, kitchen building. As well there is drinking water piped to a 40,000 litre storage tank and solar power installed in several buildings. Currently 125 students are enrolled. The final phase is to help Mgutwa Secondary School build new classrooms needed for 120 new students who want to attend the new school. The P.G. Ladies Group has compiled a scrapbook filled with photos showing the buildings during the construction process (the work provided employment for local people), and letters of thanks from school children and others in the village. “Even the younger generation is jumping on board,” said Bruno. “One of our members has a granddaughter who, instead of birthday presents for her, raised $160 for the school.”
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Chong remembers old P.G.
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enise Chong’s family moved to Prince George in the 1950s. Her father worked at the airport and Chong remembers the drive into town to take her piano lessons – not a usual thing for children of immigrant families who were struggling to make ends meet in a new country. Chong’s mother, now 83, still lives here. Safe to say, Chong, a successful author of four books now living in Ottawa, has a place in her heart for Prince George. “My footprints are all throughout Prince George,” Chong said in an interview Wednesday with the Free Press. “We would come down and drive past the pulp mills and do our shopping. There was a Chinese rooming house of men that my father used to do errands for – one of the old buildings in Prince George, it was then the Chinese Free Masons building. We drove into town for my weekly piano lessons – how many immigrants gave their children piano lessons? I went to school in Prince George, so it has all the footprints of my past.” Chong visited the Prince George Public Library and Books and Company recently. Her new book, Lives of the Family, Stories of Fate and Circumstance, chronicles the lives of a dozen Chinese families who eventually settled in and around Ottawa. “Their lives are all connected. Chinese families all knew each other and they stayed connected.... I never really thought about this until I did this book [but] when Chinese families left the major Chinatowns in the 1950s, my mother and father decided to leave Vancouver and come to Prince George.” The Chinese generally had stayed in the larger Chinatowns, so they were mainly on the West Coast, Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, says Chong. “They crossed the whole country and even North America moving to small towns. Why, did they do that? Because they were looking for opportunity and when you got out Heritage Free Presbyterian Church of the big Chinatowns, you found there was less 4020 Balsum Road, Prince George discrimination.” Sundays 10:30 a.m. & 2p.m. Along with discrimination came stereotyp“For God so love the world that he gave his only begotten Son ing, she noted. that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” “I knew the people Five Gospel Couplets in John 3:16 who ran the few cafes in ‘God’ and ‘Son’ - the supreme Giver and the supreme Gift. Prince George because ‘loved’ and ‘gave’ - the action of God’s love. all the Chinese knew ‘world’ and ‘whosoever’ - the direction of God’s love. each other... but when ‘believe’ and ‘have’ - the assurance of God’s love. you lived in China... ‘perish’ & ‘life’ - the ultimate extremes of human destiny. it (South China), was —————————————————————————————not full of laundromat To view live webcasts go to www.cloverdaleFPChurch.ca [operators] and restauSundays 10:30a.m. & 6 p.m. rateurs... because that Listen to Radio CFIS—93.1 FM Sundays 8:30 a.m. was women’s work.” Phone: 1.604.576.1091 17 She says the lives and
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experiences of the Chinese first Chinese-Canadian senator. families she writes about In 1902, 13-year-old Sue Wong are echoed in her own came to Ottawa to work in his life growing up in Prince uncle’s business, the Murray George. Street Hand Laundry in Ottawa. “We were the only famThe teenager was so short that ily living at the airport. My he needed to stand on a box to father worked at the airuse the scrub board. In 1911, port, so that’s why we lived Sue travelled back to China and there. We were the only married Woo (her maiden name). Chinese family, so you In 1917, he returned to Canada, were sort of exiled from leaving behind his wife, who was the Chinese... you forget pregnant with their first child. your language, it rusts By 1920 he had savings enough away, you forget you are only to pay the boat passage and even Chinese because you head tax for one. Woo left their just assimilate... and then I three-year-old daughter, Kam Oi, go to Vancouver’s Chientrusting her to Sue’s parents. natown and, whoomp.... Denise Chong has been a Govright in my face.This is ernor General’s Literary Award the exiled history of my finalist two times. The author is family. And that is true of best known for her nonfiction Chinese families scattered depictions of the lives of Chinese across Canada.” immigrants living in Canada. Denise Chong Chinese families in Chong is a third-generation she said. fate, merchant status and WilCanada were even more Chinese-Canadian. No matter what their backliam’s one-quarter Irish heritage, connected after the 1923 Chinese She is author of The Concuground, language and country they escaped wartime China and Immigrant Act (known in the bine’s Children, The Girl in the of origin, immigrants all have thrived in their Ottawa commuChinese-Canadian community as Picture, and Egg on Mao, as well common threads, similar connity. Adrienne Poy (Clarkson) be- as her new book: Lives of the the Chinese Exclusion Act), says cerns such as feelings of isolation came Canada’s first Chinese-CaChong. Family: Stories of Fate and Cirnadian governor general. Neville “Their lives became intertwined and other emotions and expericumstance, published by Random ences that unite them,” Chong Poy’s wife, Vivienne, became the because there there were so few House Canada. explained. Chinese in Canada and there Lives of the Family folnumber were dwindling because R U N • S K I • S W I M • A P PA R E L lows families from their of the Exclusion Act, so the origin in China to very Chinese knew each other across 5 Phone different communities they the country,” said Chong. “I was Orders find in Canada, settling in amazed when doing my research Welcome small towns and outside for this book how I heard, over the large urban communiand over, from Chinese children ties, states a Random House whose fathers told them, ‘I could release. The release whets drive clear across this country the reader’s appetite for [Canada] and never have to pay more Chinese immigrant for a meal’... In other words, they had clans... they had connections. stories with a glimpse of three families chronicled in The families that I write about are like that, their lives intertwine the new book: Harry Johnston a.k.a. and then they finally settle in and Harry Fong left a wife and around Ottawa.” son in China and came to Touring with her fourth book, Lives of the Family, Stories of Fate Perth, Ont. in 1899 to work in a laundry shop. and Circumstance, Chong says is Thirteen years later his a little like “coming out of hiberwife died and he returned nation.... because that’s what I’m doing when I’m writing. You’re in to China to mourn – and to marry Mabel. Harry, Mabel seclusion, even from your family and suddenly, the book is finished and their daughter had returned to Perth by 1921. and it’s out there.” Together, they ran Harry’s For two months, in September Cafe and became millionand October she toured China aires. with a Chinese translation of her The Poys were among the book. People there were, “fascinated with the notion of migrants few Chinese allowed into Gift Canada during the excluon the move, of family ties. They Children & Adult sion era. Blessed by good were interested in the emotions,” Certificates
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Buddy brings the 50s Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com
Theatre North West has a smash hit on its hands with Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story, directed by Samantha MacDonald. Buddy, written by Alan James, is filled with great vocals, marvellous music, memorable scenes and perfect mix of humour and drama. It has an authentic set – so real you feel like a time machine has pulled you back into the 1950s. Suddenly... you are there. Clever choreographer Judy Russell, who added her own brand of magic to Buddy, calls it a “musical biography.” I like that the show truly showcases the exceptional “triple threat” talents of its cast and highlights the expertise of its backstage crew. In their creative hands, the show also tells the poignant story of American singersongwriter Buddy Holly, a rock and roll pioneer, whose whole career lasted less than two years but who left us with incredible, enduring music. The show’s run has been extended to Dec. 15 – for good reason. Audiences will rave on about this one for a long time and although MacDonald told us she would not “rave on” about the production on opening night, she can now. Most people I talked with afterwards said Buddy is the best TNW show ever – and the most fun. The audience interacts and people seem to really like that. Buddy made them feel they were part of an exciting rock n’ roll concert. Buddy is a big challenge for any theatre company to take on because it takes tremendous talent, several actors, and seamless scenes. But I think TNW got it just right. The set was awesome. Growing up, my older brother Chris was a D.J. for our local radio station and I remember the reel to reels and vast collection of rock 45s and albums – including
character’s saucy, skirtchasing antics. Rossiter is a powerhouse performer. The applause-o-meter did go off the scale though, when another Toronto actor, Oscar Moreno as Ritchie Valens (he also plays KDAV engineer and DJ at Apollo), burst onto the stage to give an absolutely electrifying, heart stopping performance of La Bamba. As they say, Moreno has moves I’ve never seen before – and he worked it for this middle-aged mama and for most of the delighted women around me. Toronto actor Evangelia Kambites as Apollo singer has a terrific voice and stage presence. Christina Cuglietta is assistant musical director and she portrays Holly’s wife Maria Elena – and I’m pretty sure she plays keyboard (her own) so another multi talent. Other cast members put in some very dynamic acting and musical performances such as “The Crickets” band members Niki Sullivan (Tom Keenan), drummer Jerry JI Allison/ Dion (Nigel McInnis), and upright bass player Joe B. Mauldin (Curtis Abriel). Most of Buddy’s 12 talented actors have taken on with gusto several roles – Calgary actor Joe Slabe is Norman Petty, Murray Deutch, Teresa MALLAM/Free Press Buddy Holly (Fraser Elsdon) tunes his guitar in a rehearsal scene Decca producer, etc. and from Theatre North West’s production of Buddy – The Buddy Holly Prince George performer Story. The hit musical runs until Dec. 15 at TNW in the Parkhill Zarrah Holvick portrays Centre. Tickets are at Books and Company. Peggy Sue, a Hayrider, a jingle singer, Shirley, and a Buddy Holly songs. So I can per (and HiPockets Duncan) Snowbird. appreciate the thought and gave us the “runaway” favourite Theatre North West’s Buddy work that went into the set by solo spot with the people in my – Th e Buddy Holly Story by scenic designer Hans Saefkow. row on Saturday night. Alan James is at TNW, Parkhill It has a dollhouse design with They rocked to his music, Centre until Dec. 15 (matinee different levels for a small radio singing with him the words only on Sundays). Tickets are station, a recording studio, they knew to Chantilly Lace available at Books and ComHolly’s digs, Apollo Theatre and they broke into gales of pany or order by phone at 250and performing stage. Perfect. laughing over his Big Bopper 614-0039. Toronto-based actor Fraser Elsdon as Buddy Holly is a case of clever casting. It may be “so easy to fall in love,” but it’s not so easy to play a legend. Elsdon has played Holly before to high acclaim. And lucky for him, in physical appearance alone, he makes a believable Buddy. But he has so much more to offer. He aced songs like Peggy Sue, Rave On, Oh Boy, That’ll Be The Day (over 20 songs in all.) Indeed, his entire performance, from delivery of Holly’s music, to the high energy and personal magnetism he brings to this TNW production is brilliant. Jory Rossiter of Toronto as The Big Bop-
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Thompson writes about Dying to Live Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com Her near-death experience in October 1994 has enriched her life, says Prince George author Susan Berger Thompson. “It truly was an ‘a-ha’ moment,” she told the Free Press recently. When she woke up in a hospital bed after barely surviving a brain aneurysm, she’d already spent several days slipping in and out of consciousness. Her children were her lifeline, she said, and her soul mate “Liam”, who had kept a journal during her medical crisis helped Thompson learn about and piece together what had transpired in all those “lost” days. “I was having headaches and I remember arriving for my appointment at my optometrist’s office.” She collapsed on the floor, after passing out, she said. Although she doesn’t remember any of it, she was told she was rushed to Prince George Regional Hospital (now UHNBC), then airlifted to Vancouver General
Hospital where she underwent surgery to save her life. Then began her long recovery, and the process of getting her life back to a “sense of normalcy” began. It was a very difficult and frustrating time for her, she admits. And it left its scars – both physical and emotional. She writes: “Standing in front of the mirror one day, I was disturbed by my image. I was bone skinny and my legs had atrophied. To facilitate surgery, much of my lovely long hair had been shaved off the back of my head. In the hospital Liam had taken pictures of the tongue-shaped sutured flap on the back of my head.” Twenty years later, and now a grandmother of five, two in Surrey, three in Prince George, Thompson celebrated her 39th birthday in 1994 by being allowed to leave hospital and return home to her family in Prince George. She truly treasures her life, now, she says, and feels fortunate to get a second chance, which is why she wanted to share her experience with others.
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Teresa MALLAM/Free Press Susan Berger Thompson with Heartmind Wisdom, an anthology of Inspiring Women, in which the Prince George author has a chapter about her near death experience and how it profoundly changed her life.
Her story is found in a chapter titled Dying to Live included in an anthology of 21 stories in Heartmind Wisdom. The stories are written by several different authors who share their experiences about how friendship, family and spiritual belief have helped them to have enriched lives. Thompson said she is grateful for the insight. “I wanted to share with people that no matter
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how badly you feel, it (the situation) does pass. With all the stories, there are ideas in the book that you can use to help you get through difficult things in your life. The publication helped me and it helped me to help other people.” When a friend in Surrey suggested that she follow up on a request for authors for a group collection (Heartmind Wisdom, Collection No. 1, an anthology of inspiring wisdom from those who have been there,) Thompson agreed it would be a good place to start. After all, she had the wisdom of a lifetime. “Afterwards I kept thinking that if I had stayed dead, is that the way I would have wanted to live out my last days, not being happy in my life. So I decided to make changes.” One of those changes was the painful but for her the right decision to end her relationship with Liam, she said. “Every day that I get up, I choose to be happy. I truly enjoy my day. “I don’t believe that other people make you unhappy, it wasn’t his (Liam’s) fault that I was unhappy. I loved him but I learned to love me more.” Along the way, she had learned not to worry, so Thompson was able to ward off fears she could have another aneurysm, allowing her to live her life
more freely. “I’ve never been a worrier. There’s no point worrying about things that might happen, I only worry about things if they’re actually happening.” Her positive, upbeat attitude surprises some people, she writes: “When people learn of my ruptured brain aneurysm, they often comment that it must have been very difficult for me. My reply is always that I wasn’t even aware that I nearly died; however it was extremely difficult for my love ones. “People also say things such as that must have been the worst thing that ever happened to you. In response, I smile and say, ‘No, almost dying was one of the best things that ever happened to me. It gave me a much needed kick in the butt to change my life’.” Thompson said in her story that she learned to count her blessings and, through study and reflections, began to really appreciate the little things she’d previously taken for granted. “I hung onto such blessings as sliding into bed between freshly laundered sheets – and the amazing fresh feeling of towelling off after a shower. When something annoying happened, I learned to laugh it off, instead of dwelling on it. Over time I realized that what happens to us throughout life isn’t as important as how we interpret events – the power we give to the good and the bad.” Next she plans to write a book of poetry and after that, a book. “It will be sort of semi-autobiographical,” she says, smiling. Heartmind Wisdom, an anthology containing the inspirational story by author Susan Berger Thompson, is published by Balboa Press. For more information please visit www.kindnessiskey.com.
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Swanson heads south for new role Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com Jim Swanson sees a lot of similarities between the WCL and the WHL. “Both leagues have the same level of proximity to the top level in their sports,” says Swanson, a longtime Prince George baseball supporter who is now the general manager of the Victoria HarbourCats of the West Coast League (WCL). “There were 57 WCL players drafted by Major League Baseball in 2013.” The announcement of Swanson’a appointment to the Victoria job came last month, and he says it was about two months ago that he heard about the opening.
“I looked into the situation there when I heard about it. There aren’t too many baseball jobs in Canada that are full time, especially for guy who’s 45.” A lot of people Swanson knows through baseball are in the Victoria area, and, “a lot of people in Victoria wanted me to take the job. They thought it was a good fit.” The West Coast League is a 12team, summer league for collegeage players, and uses wooden bats. That last aspect, Swanson says, is one of the most important ones. “Scouts want to see how batters and pitchers do in a league with wooden bats, because that’s what they use in the majors. In college, they use metal bats, and it makes a real difference to the game.
Skate with the Cougars
“This way, they on Friday, and now I’m can approximate working on our Christthe big-league expemas packages. There rience, and see how are so many things to the player might do, from filling staff fit in.” positions, to making Because it’s a colupgrades at the park, to lege-age program recruiting and signing which sees a lot of players. players drafted each “It’s a two-month year, Swanson says league, but it’s a yearthe WCL has a lot round job.” HARBOURCATS of turnover. Swanson had been JIM SWANSON one of the people “Some teams might have three to five playinvolved with the World Baseball ers back from one season to the Challenge in Prince George, but he next. It places a real premium on says the organization will continue recruiting.” t do well. That’s something he is already “People like me and Sean Rice working on, since he jumped right may have been the faces people into the new role. associated with the tournament, “I attended the league meetings but there is a real great group of people doing a lot of work behind the scenes. That’s how a lot of
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them like it. They don’t want to be doing the interviews and everything. I never had a problem with that part.” Swanson stepped down as chair of the tournament at the AGM earlier this year. “I’d been the chair since we started in 2007, and I just felt it was time for someone new with some new ideas.” He’ll keep an eye on the WBC from Victoria, and hopes he cane get back for at least some of the next tournament, probably in 2015. For now, though, he is working on putting together a HarbourCats team for this year, and settling into Victoria. “(Wife) Lori and the kids will be relocating to Victoria. We just don’t have a timetable yet, because I’m just starting to look for a house here.”
WINTER WEEKEND GETAWAY
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A variety of floor plans and features to choose from such as: • One and two bedroom suites • Hospitality suites • Beautiful hardwood floors • Deep soaker Jacuzzi tubs • Free high speed internet
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Our in-house services include the Blackwater Restaurant & Lounge, Room Service. The Willow Room for meetings and gatherings for up to 60 persons, catering and much more.
Allan WISHART/Free Press Ty Edmonds and other members of the Prince George Cougars joined minor hockey players as they participated in their recent Skateathon fundraiser.
Globetrotters coming to Prince George February 11 When you’ve been playing basketball for more a ‘hot hand’ jersey. This would be a special jersey than 85 years, the game might get a bit boring. which could be passed between teammates on the OK, so none of the current Harlem Globetrotters court. have been playing since the team formed 88 years If the player wearing the jersey scores, their team ago, but that doesn’t mean they can’t change things gets double the points. up a bit. And they want the PUZZLE NO. 288 fans to help them decide what the rules will be HOW TO PLAY: when they come to Prince George on Feb. Fill in the grid so that 11. every row, every column Last year, the Globeand every 3 x 3 box trotters set up an online contains the numbers 1 poll for fans to choose through 9 only once. what special rules they wanted to see. It worked Each 3 x 3 box is so well, they’re doing it outlined with a darker again this year. line. You already have a Go to harlemglobefew numbers to get you trotters.com/rule and started. you’ll be given three choices for a special rule Remember: you must the Globetrotters’ game not repeat the numbers in Prince George will 1 through 9 in the feature. same line, column or 3 One possibility would Answers can be found in the classifieds. x 3 box. see each team having
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fourpointsprincegeorge.com info@fourpointsprincegeorge.com We will make your stay one of the best hotel experiences ever.
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Christmas Gift Guide
Gadgets for the techies
Oh, no! You’ve drawn your brother-in-law’s name for this year’s Christmas gift exchange? And what’s worse is that you have no idea what to get for this inveterate techie who loves anything to do with the Internet and new technologies? Does he love Star Wars, Star Trek, and video games? Is he a real geek? Here are a few gift ideas to help you find something he’s sure to love. • A waterproof case for smart phones (very useful for taking underwater photos).
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to the conclusion that buying him or her a pair of slippers or a teapot is pretty pointless. So why not opt for a gift that will provide a few thrills? Here are some gift ideas for those who love an adrenaline rush: • An introductory course in snowboarding or downhill skiing (if they haven’t already tried these sports). Most ski hills offer this type of package deal. •A gift certificate for an introductory course in ice climbing. Check with your local climbing gym or outdoor equipment store for resources and recommendations. •A winter camping expedition on snowshoes or cross country skis. •A gift certificate for a spring or summer sport. Think parachute jumps, deltaplane excursions, or bungee jumping. •For those who like to fly high, there are hot air balloon rides, learning to pilot a Cessna, or taking a flight in a helicopter. •For fast car lovers, a day at the racetrack behind the steering wheel of a Ferrari or a Lamborghini. •For water sport lovers, windsurfing, surfing, kayaking, white water rafting, jet boating, or swimming with dolphins.
•Gloves for touch screens. •A hand warming mouse (put an end to frozen hands in front of a computer). •A magic wand remote control. •An e-book reader (a tablet used for storing and reading digital books). •A comfortable headband with integrated speakers to help him fall asleep. •The traditional Rubik’s cube or Rubik’s 360 (a sphere!). •An MP3 player “musihat” (looks like a regular baseball cap but has a built-in MP3 player). •Star Wars cuff-links. •A star projector for admiring the cosmos in the comfort of his own bed. •Post-it sticky notes in the shape of a smart
phone. •A miniature fridge (for one can) powered by a USB stick. •A key chain with a sonic locator. •A bath towel stamped with a video game
console. •A flexible Tetris lamp. •An alarm clock in the form of Lego blocks. •A coloured USB fan. •A Pac-Man clock. •A Rubik’s cubeshaped pencil container.
Joyeux Noël! Merry Christmas! Offer your loved ones a unique gift this Christmas! • Maple products • Wooden spoons for traditional music • Tickets to Cabane à sucre’s popular Sugar Shack Brunch during the FRANCOFUN Winter Festival Saturday, February 1, 2014
MEET YOU AT THE 29TH FRANCOFUN WINTER FESTIVAL JAN 24TH - FEB 8TH
• Tickets to the FRANCOFUN Winter Festival’s Concert and Dance to the sound of songs, jigs, foot-tapping and reels Saturday, February 8, 2014 • Gift Certificates
Le Cercle des Canadiens Français
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1752 rue Fir Prince George, C.-B. V2L 1E7 250-561-2565 Fax 250-561-7319 www.ccfpg.ca
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Christmas Gift Guide
Need some hostess gift ideas? You’ve been invited to a Christmas party and you’re really excited about spending time with the other guests, as well as your host and hostess. But there’s one problem you have to solve before the big day: finding the perfect hostess gift. Of course, the easy way out is to give the classic gift of a bottle of wine, which is not a bad idea. However, you have to admit that
this solution is pretty hackneyed! Here are a few gift ideas if you want to give a slightly more original gift to the people welcoming you into their home. First of all, take the time to wrap the gift in some pretty paper. It doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive; a gift worth between $20 and $30 is quite acceptable. If you know your hostess well, you could offer her something
personal that will allow her to relax once the party is over. This could include a gift pack of body-care products, a relaxation CD, a restorative hand cream, some room scent, or some comfortable loungewear. If your host and hostess are real epicureans, you could always give them an edible gift. Locally produced products are always appreciated, and you’ll
certainly have lots of choice: try a pretty bottle of raspberry salad dressing, ice cider, a selection of herbal teas, crab terrine, or wild strawberry jam. If they love to cook, give them a kitchen accessory, such as an oil and vinegar set, escargot plates, a serving dish, pretty glass markers, a practical spice rack, table napkins, or a glass pitcher with a spout.
For the environmentalist... Environmental protection is an absolutely central value for many people today. The aim of “green” people is to reduce their dependency on consumer goods as much as possible; in
other words, their goal is to consume intelligently. To ensure that the environmentalists on your Christmas list will truly appreciate their gifts, be sure to choose things that cor-
respond to their ideals. Nature lovers will love to receive a small, live Christmas tree in a pot, one that can be put outside in the spring or that can be kept indoors as a houseplant.
250-612-4663 1299 3rd Ave Prince George
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A florist will be able to give you all the necessary information. Presenting them with a membership card for an environmental organization, such as Greenpeace or the World Wildlife Fund, is also a great idea. Some of these organizations have boutiques selling fair trade or organic products, such as reusable coffee cups, carrier bags made of organic cotton, organic seeds, note pads of recycled paper, organic sunscreen, eco-friendly laundry detergent, and other environmentally responsible goods. You could also purchase fair trade and organic food items at a supermarket or natural food store — coffee, tea, jam, jelly, chocolate — then make your own pretty gift basket. Any articles that can replace disposable accessories are also good gift ideas. Think lunch or shopping bags made from washable fabric, a tray for reusable coffee mugs, washable diapers for babies, or organic cotton wipes. If you have a bigger budget in mind, think about giving a bicycle. That way, your environmentalist can cycle to work. You could also buy a monthly public transportation pass for a student, which would help him or her save some precious dollars.
- Original Joe’s, Prince George
Tomato & Bacon Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Original Joe’s, College Heights 5224 Domano BLVD, Prince George, BC
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Christmas Gift Guide
Find the way to their hearts
We are located in Prince George, B.C. and proudly servicing Northern British Columbia with a great line of products and equipment. Our customers range from farmers, equine enthusiasts, to small acreage owners. We are an authorized KIOTI TRACTOR dealer, and offer implements from multiple lines of manufacturers. Northern Acreage Supply is the one stop for your fencing, treated posts, fence charger systems and specialty fencing products. There are many options for safe animal containment and we are con-
Great gifts under $50 Do you have to find the perfect gift for less than $50 to please
someone you love? Here are a few ideas. For her
A cozy blanket or throw for cocooning, a therapeutic massage, a
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gift certificate for a spa, a professional facial, a pair of elegant leather gloves, a little black dress, a jewellery stand, a bathrobe, a relaxing cushion for the bath, sunglasses, a fountain pen, fine chocolates, a mixer for making smoothies, champagne glasses, a famous chef ’s recipe book, or a beautifully illustrated cookbook. For him Earphones, speakers for an MP3 player, a digital tablet, a tablet stand, a DVD collection of a popular TV series, a wine aerator, a wine decanter, a good bottle of wine, a corkscrew, a cheese knife, cufflinks, beautiful slippers, sexy underwear, a freestanding hammock, or a BBQ recipe book. For children and teenagers A push scooter, snowshoes, a smart phone accessory (holder, case, earphones), a stylish bag or backpack, a jewellery box, a pretty watch, a change purse, or a slush machine. For baby Comfortable clothing, sturdy toys, unscented products for delicate skin, a cuddly blanket, a stuffed toy, a pair of slippers, an exerciser, or a digital scale. These will be sure to please baby, or Mom and Dad!
fident that we have the fencing system to meet your needs. We carry shavings and mat systems for both the Dairy and Equine industry. At Northern Acreage Supply you will also find pre-engineered steel framed, fabric and metal
covered buildings, as well as shelters, automatic waterers, feeders, gates, panels and more. If you require feed, we carry the Natures Mix and Matrix feed line. If we do not have the product you are looking for, let us know, and we will do our best to
find it for you. We believe in friendly service, and competitive prices. Please contact us or come into our show room to discuss the products we carry. We would be happy to help plan your next project.
Welcome to Northern Acreage! We are located in Prince George, B.C. and proudly servicing Northern British Columbia with a great line of products and equipment. Our customers range from farmers, equine enthusiasts, to small acreage owners. We are an authorized KIOTI TRACTOR dealer, and offer implements from multiple lines of manufacturers. Northern Acreage Supply is the one stop for your fencing, treated posts, fence
charger systems and specialty fencing products. There are many options for safe animal containment and we are confident that we have the fencing system to meet your needs. We carry shavings and mat systems for both the Dairy and Equine industry. At Northern Acreage Supply you will also find pre-engineered steel framed, fabric and metal covered buildings, as well as shelters, automatic
waterers, feeders, gates, panels and more. If you require feed, we carry the Natures Mix and Matrix feed line. If we do not have the product you are looking for, let us know, and we will do our best to find it for you. We believe in friendly service, and competitive prices. Please contact us or come into our show room to discuss the products we carry. We would be happy to help plan your next project.
The 59 HP RX6010 is a feat of human engineering. It delivers fuel efficiency and low emission output without sacrificing power. It has an optional power shuttle for easy operation. Plus, it comes with one of the highest lift capacities in its class. There’s nothing in the world, or anywhere else, quite like it. © 2013 KIOTI TractorCompany a Division of Deedong-USA, Inc.
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Explorations take school in new path Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com The Explorations are over at Heather Park Elementary – at least for a week or so. “I’m pretty pleased about this,” principal Steve Fleck said of the program, which completed its first six-week session on Nov. 21. “We wanted to take advantage of the size of the facility to offer some unique programs. “Explorations is one of those.” He says they looked at the class sizes they were dealing with in Grades 4 to 7, and realized there were students having problems in core areas, such as mathematics and language arts, who fell into what he calls “the grey area.” “They are having problems, but they’re not in one of the groupings where there is special funding available. Every teacher needs to move along with the curriculum, and some of the students fall a little behind.” So the school administration got permission from the district to introduce a pilot program. “The students who needed the extra help were identified by their teachers,” Fleck said. “We were able to set up smaller classes, usually with fewer than 15 students, so they could get that extra help they needed.” Grade 4 and 5 students took part in Explorations for 90 minutes on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, while Grade 6 and 7 students did the same in the afternoons. Tanya Goodwin was one of the teachers for the first Explorations
session for the students getting extra instruction. “The one comment I keep hearing is, ‘We can write so much in here.’ That’s all they’re doing in here, writing. “It’s a more-intensive class. There are only 11 students, so I can spend time with each of them three or four times in each class. In a regular class, where you have about 30 students, you can’t do that.” With the end of the first Explorations session, the students Goodwin has been working with for the past six weeks will be heading back to regular language arts classes. “They have a lot of confidence in themselves now. Some of them came in with low self-esteem, because they knew they weren’t keeping up in class. “Now, they know they can do it.” Fleck said there are actually a low number of students requiring remedial assistance, which means they had to come with ways to keep the rest of the students occupied for that 90 minutes. “There are 60 students from Grades 4 to 7 who are receiving the extra, dedicated lessons,” he said. “The other students have a choice of some really neat sessions they can take. We have a woodshop, from when this was a middle school, and we have a teacher who is qualified to teach there, so she has ben working with a group of students on woodmaking projects. “We have another class where the teacher’s husband is with the RCMP in forensics, so those students have been solving crimes.” Some of the students don’t even stay in the school for those 90 minutes.
Allan WISHART/Free Press Heather Park Elementary teacher Peter Marchlewitz joins students in a game of Zooloretto during a session of Explorations, a pilot program at the school.
“The school district and the city are in the first year of a partnership where we can use each other’s facilities. The one thing is it can’t be for something like a hockey academy. It has to be part of the school program, open to everyone.” So with the Elksentre right across the road from the school, some of the students are spending their Explorations time at the rink. “That’s the one choice that is different,” Fleck said. “Those students will be in hockey through all three of the Explorations sessions.”
COMING EVENTS Square Dance
Prince George Cougars 8:00pm - 11:00pm Doors open at 6:30pm with the puck drop at 7:00pm. pgcougars.com or on Twitter at @ pgcougars For game day tickets call 250-564-5585 or visit the Ticketmaster office located at the front doors of CN Centre
Doc Cinema - Films to change your world Sunday, December 8 2:00pm - 4:00pm – Free What Would Jesus Buy? Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping Gospel Choir on a crosscountry mission to save Christmas from the Shopocalypse (the end of humankind from consumerism, over-consumption and the fires of eternal debt.) Join us for an eye-opening documentary film series hosted on the first Sunday of the month. Prince George Public Library, 887 Dominion Street (250) 563-9251 Email: ask@lib.pg.bc.ca
Learn to Square Dance 2:10pm - 4:10pm Friday, December 13 Friday, December 20 MUSIC - DANCING - FRIENDSHIP - A GREAT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Northern Twisters Square Dance Club Beginners Lessons on Monday nights from 7:00 to 8:15 PM Knox United Church 1448 5th Avenue Info: Gys 250-964-4851 or Reta 250-962-2740
Hart Highway Market Friday, December 13 Saturday, December 14 Sunday, December 15 Friday, December 20 Saturday, December 21 Sunday, December 22 Friday, December 27 Saturday, December 28 Sunday, December 29 9:00am - 3:00pm Looking for something unique? Looking for a bargain? We invite and welcome you to enjoy a taste of the HH Market finest as you shop, eat, play, and explore! Browse through a variety of vendors who offer second hand and NEW items, glassware, antiques, Jewelry, vintage items and so much more. You never know what you
might find! Bring the kids and find FUN activities for them. Table/ Spaces available! Hart Highway Market 3955 Hart Highway (250) 552-9399
7th Annual Northern Lights Festival until Wednesday, January 1 5:00pm - 10:00pm Enjoy the magic of the lights as you drive through the displays atop Connaught Hill. Over 200,000 lights and 10 major animated displays. $10 cash admission/carload at the bottom of the hill. Open every night. Connaught Hill Prince George, BC 250-562-3700
Hospice Celebrate A Life Memorial Thursday, December 12 7:00pm - 9:00pm Sponsored by the PG Hospice Society A time to celebrate and reflect on those we love. Through music, readings and candle lighting we honour our loved ones. Everyone is welcome – event is free of charge. Refreshments to follow in the Fellowship Hall. St. Giles Presbyterian Church 1500 Edmonton St (250) 563-2551 cgladwin@hospiceprincegeorge.ca
The second session of Explorations starts Dec. 3. Fleck said it will follow the same basic format. “There will be some students who will be receiving the dedicated extra time in language arts or math. The other students, including some of the ones who had extra lessons in the first session, will be able to choose what they want to do in the next six weeks.” So far, the pilot program is going well. “We knew it wouldn’t be perfect,” Fleck said. “We’re still making some changes
on the go. I’m hearing a lot of positives from the teachers. They find the students are motivated, because they get to make choices for what they want to do, which is something they don’t normally get the chance to do at this age. They also get the chance to be with students they might not otherwise be with. “There’s also some motivation for the teachers, because it gives them a chance to offer sessions they enjoy, which wouldn’t be part of the usual curriculum.”
IN PRINCE GEORGE Family Christmas Concert at ECRA Sunday, December 15 2:00pm - 4:00pm The Forever Young Chorus & the Gospel Singers have joined together to present: “Born Neath a Star” All 60 members from both choirs will be singing together to bring you an afternoon of entertainment certain to put you in the Christmas spirit. Admission is by donation Goodie bags for the children Refreshments and fellowship to follow after the concert Elder Citizens Recreation Centre 1692 10th Ave (250) 561-9381 nadalin@telus.net
Polar Express Christmas Adventure Wednesday, December 18 4:00pm - 7:00pm The annual Polar Express Christmas event will be held at Famous Players 6. Get into the holiday spirit by catching the movie, visiting with Santa and touring the Northern Lights Festival. Only 200 tickets available, get yours today at Books & Co just $10.00/each. Famous Players 6, Prince George
The Nutcracker Friday, December 20 check times. Eves and afternoons It’s “Nutcracker” year and Judy Russell Presents is proud to continue to bring this endearing classic to life December 20, 21 & 22! Judy’s magical ballet has been lovingly performed in co production with The Prince George Symphony Orchestra since 1991. Tickets are already on sale at Studio 2880. Vanier Hall Prince George, BC (250) 562-0800 Email: gm@pgso.com Prince George Symphony Orchestra
The Band Perry! Saturday, January 11 8:30pm - 11:30pm The Band Perry on their We Are Pioneers world tour! With special guests Easton Corbin and Lindsay Ell. CN Centre 2187 Ospika Blvd. Phone: 1 (855) 985-5000 Ticketmaster
Check out: tourismpg.com/ events or cncentre.ca
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Looking at fish in the round Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com The white sturgeon at The Exploration Place have a new home. They’ve been moved downstairs, to a brand new, custom-built tank. The aquarium was installed last month, with aquarist and designer Ken Wong on hand to work with the staff. “This is something different,” Wong said. “Most aquariums are heated, but this one is cold, because we want to replicate the environment for the sturgeon and the other fish.” Making it cold suits the fish, which is the most important thing, but Wong said there were other, human, needs to keep in mind when he designed the aquarium. “We had to know where we were going to put it, and figure out what size we could fit in. We also decided to take out all the corners. There are no straight lines.” The Exploration Place CEO Tracy Calogheros said they and Wong had to keep in mind the rest of the facility. “We’re not a zoo or an aquarium,” she said. “We had to figure out how we could make it work in here.” The new tank does fit in its new home – barely. “It rubbed against the sides of those doors all the way in,” Calogheros said. The sturgeon will also be somewhat easier to see in their new home, at least for children. “We’ve added another dimension to the tank,” Wong said. “There is a dome in the middle that probably isn’t big enough for an adult to stand up in, but a child can. It gives you a 360-degree view of the tank.” Calogheros said the dome may require close observation – and not just by those inside it.
Allan WISHART/Free Press A sturgeon and some smaller fish in their new home at The Exploration Place, as seen from the viewing bubble inside the new tank.
“We’ll probably have to police it a bit to start, at least, and make sure people don’t spend too long in there, so everyone gets a chance.” She said The Exploration Place started talking about the new tank about a year
ago, and got serious about it at the beginning of the year. It took Wong close to five months to come up with the design for the tank. The new fish tank officially opened on Saturday, Nov. 23, in conjunction with two other new exhibits. Kids
Celebrate is an exhibition which helps children explore the diversity and importance of celebrations in Canada. It gives children a chance to see the history and importance of various celebrations for different groups across the country and around the
world. The temporary exhibit space at The Exploration Place is also being dedicated to George Phillips, who was the executive director from 1992 to 2003, which included the 2001 expansion and rebranding.
X CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 522
ACROSS
42. TV’s “Family ____” 45. Inclusive word 1. Extinct bird 46. Dunce 4. Body fluids 49. Gyrate 8. Supplements 51. Perimeter 12. Head 52. Appendage 15. Tropical cuckoo 55. Declared 16. Voracious 17. Crescent-shaped figure 58. Surface a lawn 59. Equestrian’s leash 18. Building wing shape 61. Adriatic wind 19. ____ capita 62. Quick-witted 20. Mature 64. Canvas prop 21. Alter 66. Maximum 22. Pint-sized 68. Prejudiced person 23. Big pipes 72. Be next to 25. Kisser 74. Unctuous 26. Male child 77. Encore! 27. Wampum unit 78. Nullify 29. Wrists 79. Boredom 32. Muddy 80. Moderate 35. Testa 81. And: Ger. 36. Pitcher 83. Llama doc 37. Declared 85. Suit 40. Kindled again
Copyright ©, Penny Press
87. Harass 88. Meager 89. Gifted 90. “____ Tide” 93. Ascot, e.g. 94. Pilaster 95. Advise, to a Brit 96. History chapter, perhaps 97. Not young 98. Religious service 99. Hitherto 100. Modeled
DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Navigator’s need “____ Foot in Heaven” Send by jet Hindu garment Indicate clearly Plank maker Dog-day drink Varnish material Antelope
10. Puzzle 11. Defeat a bridge contract 12. Bride and groom 13. Olive genus 14. Ran 24. Improvise 27. Beer joint 28. Previously, in verse 30. Game official 31. Spring training 33. “____ Waited So Long” 34. Roam 38. Therefore 39. Changed from red to black 41. Zenith 43. Elevator buttons 44. Phonograph record 47. Globe 48. Cannon report 50. Weddingannouncement word 52. Province 53. Display literacy 54. Underestimated 56. Away 57. Society entrant 60. Lighted-sign gas 63. Auras 65. Noodle covering 67. ____ Woodman (“The Wizard of Oz” character) 69. Certain beards 70. Morsel 71. Golf implement 73. Prayer 75. Lout 76. Succumbs 79. Lab burners 81. Biblical preposition 82. Talon 84. Gets fed up? 86. Shoe inserts 88. Fugitive’s flight 89. Land measure 91. Undies item 92. Bonilla’s stick
Steve Miller Band coming to Prince George The Steve Miller Band is coming to Prince George. In a Nov. 25 press release, it says the Steve Miller Band will play CN Centre on April 9, 2014, one of only five shows in Canada. “Call him the Gangster of Love. Call him Maurice. You can even call him The Joker or Space Cowboy. Get ready Prince George because on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at the CN Centre you can experience one of rock n’ rolls’ most iconic superstars, the Steve Miller Band.” This is the band’s first Canadian tour in over 20 years. With more than 30 million records sold in a career spanning more than 40 years, the Steve Miller Band has made their mark on rock-n-roll fans around the world. His trademark blues/rock
sound made him one of the key artists in classic rock radio – a sound that is recognized (and loved) and audiences of all ages. In 2010, Miller released two albums Bingo and Let Your Hair Down, the newest records in 18 years (cause for celebration, said the Huffington Post.) Miller has broad appeal. He’s collaborated with country superstar Kenny Chesney on the CMT special Crossroads and in 2012 had sold-out performances in Europe. The Steve Miller Band plays CN Centre on Wednesday, April 9. For more visit www.stevemillerband.com. Tickets for the show in Prince George go on sale today (Friday, Nov. 29) at all Ticketmaster outlets including the CN Centre box office.
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Friday, December 6, 2013
250.564.0005
Employment Drivers/Courier/ Trucking FT Class 1 driver for highway haul. Fax resume 250-5639559 Phone 250-563-5950
Help Wanted Bookkeeper needed by our firm. Any job experience can apply. We need a person that’s computer literate and has good typing skills. Salary is $3075 monthly. Email at ryanwells430@gmail.com if interested. Drivers needed.Class 5. Minimum 5 years exp. Must be able to drive standard. Call Keys Please 250-613-0203 after 1pm Steady/PT to vacuum, wipe & wash cars. Apply to Hands on Car Wash, 1956 3rd Ave
Trades, Technical Class 4 Engineer is required for Colonial Farms. Competitive Wages with Full Benefits. Drop Resume between 8am & 2pm. 3830 Okanagan Street, Armstrong. (250)546-3008 HEAVY EQUIPMENT Technicians required for work in Fort McMurray. If you are interested in a balanced schedule, competitive wages and benefits please send your resume to: hr@gladiatorequipment.com or fax to 1-780-986-7051.
Services
Alterations/ Dressmaking FOUR SISTERS SEWING 250-564-4985
Health Products RESTLESS LEG Syndrome & leg cramps? Fast relief In one hour. Sleep at night. Proven for over 32 years. www.allcalm.com Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660.
Psychics PSYCHIC MIRACLES by Luna.com. Call and get a free reading by phone. Love money job family, restores broken relationships, solves all problems permanently. 1-866-2295072
Financial Services DROWNING IN debt? Cut debts more than 60% & debt free in half the time! Avoid bankruptcy! Free Consultation. www.mydebtsolution.com or Toll Free 1-877-556-3500 BBB Rated A+ GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com
Financial Services IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161. INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca C- 250-938-1944
Legal Services CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.
Landscaping
Misc. Wanted
Rentals
Rentals
Fall YARD CLEAN-UP Garbage Removal & Gutter Cleaning (250)961-3612 or (250)964-4758 res PAL’S MAINTENANCE
Local Coin Collector Buying Collections, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins etc 778-281-0030
Apt/Condo for Rent
Duplex / 4 Plex
Painting & Decorating Paint Special 3 Rooms $589 incl. prem qlty paint, your color choices, 2 coats, filled nail holes. Ceiling & trim extra. Free Est. HB Tech Painting 250-649-6285
Snowclearing Tractor with Snowblower Driveway snow clearing 250-614-4600 fireguy6668@hotmail.com
$200 & Under (1) new Bridgestone LT 265 75R/16 on steel rim $150 (4) Grand Spirit 205 70R/15 $200 (2) V-Steel Bridgestone LT245 75R/16 $200 (4) Good Year Wranglers 245 75R/16 2 @ $150 2 @ $50 (250)613-6455
Real Estate For Sale By Owner 2 bed/2 bath Condo underground parking with security gate. Killoren Cres. $140,00 OBO 250-612-9648 or 250612-0145
For Sale By Owner For Sale by Owner $90,000 2007 SRI Custom Built Modular 14x70. Like new cond., wellmaintained, open floor plan; lots of cupboard space incl a pantry cupboard. 3 bdrm, 2 full bathroom. Includes 6 appliances; fridge, stove, new dishwasher, OTR, microwave, stacking W/D. Can be moved from lot-generous discount for mine workers who wish to move the unit. Call Cal or Anita 250-564-9689.
If you’re out of sight... ...you’re out of business! Advertising Works! 250-564-0005
Midtowne
• 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available • Close to hospital & downtown • Rent includes heat, hot water • Elevator to undercover parking • Fridge, stove, quality carpets, drapes • Laundry on each floor • No pets
To Rent Call:
250-561-1447 Pine Grove Apts Clean 1 & 2 bdrm apts Student & other incentives No Dogs
Phone 250-563-2221
Apt/Condo for Rent HARDWOOD MANOR 1575 Queensway Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm Suites Heat/hot water included Adult Oriented/Students welcome Incentives for long-term students
Entirely furnished 4 - 2 bdrm Col.Hts.Aprv’d hotel alternative Ideal for corporate crew. No smoke/pets. 250-960-0861 msg
Misc for Rent For Seniors 55+ 2 - bdrm suite All utilities included except phone & internet. Call Theresa 250-962-5570
Shared Accommodation 2 bdrm apt to share with mature person. Smoker OK. St Laurant Manor 250-640-0986
Suites, Lower 1 bdrm bsmt for quite mature working person or student. NS, NP, utilities incl., cable, wireless internet, washer/dryer. Separate entrance, small car or no car. $650/mo available Dec 1st 250-552-3070
www.pgfreepress.com
B15
Brink Forest Products is an integrated lumber remanufacturing plant located in Prince George, BC producing a range of structural, industrial and value-added wood products destined for local and international markets. We are looking for a
Welder/Fabricator An experienced Fabricator for our Àngerjoint and reman operations is required immediately. Production experience in planer mills, Àngerjointing or remanufacturing operations together with milling machine experience will be a deÀnite asset. Part-time and Contract positions also available. No travel and work right down town, the company also offers an excellent beneÀt and competitive compensation package. We thank all applicants and advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply to:
Brink Forest Products Ltd. 2023 River Road Prince George, BC V2L 5S8 Att’n: Shawn Grattan Ph: (250) 564-0412 Fax: (250) 564-0796 E-mail: shawngrattan@brink.bc.ca Visit our website at www.brink.bc.ca
Call (250)561-1446
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE PRINCE GEORGE FREE PRESS
CLASS 1 DRIVERS & HEAVY-DUTY TRANSPORT MECHANICS We want YOU to make your mark with us and join our growing team!
DESCRIPTION We are seeking a team player with a professional attitude to work and learn in a fast paced, business environment.
QUALIFICATIONS The ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative to sell multiple media products, including on-line advertising and special products, work with existing customers and develop new customers. Strong interpersonal skills and a strong knowledge of sales and marketing are required. Above average communication skills, valid driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle are necessary. If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today.
Maple Leaf Loading is a growing Bulk Handling and Transportation company focusing its business on providing specialized services to the mining and resource sectors. OPPORTUNITIES at our operations in Chetwynd, BC & Stewart, BC/Watson Lake, YT & Grande Cache, AB We offer full-time year-round work with company paid housing, earning potential to $100,000 and a great benefit plan.
Submit your cover letter and resume by e-mail to: publisher@pgfreepress.com Ron Drillen, General Manager Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, B.C., V2N 1T3, Canada Tel: (250) 564-0005 #115
You provide a safe work attitude to support your experience and our culture.
We have GREAT OPPORTUNITIES! AberdeenPublishing.com 778-754-5722
X CROSSWORD
Submit a resume & "N" abstract to: Maple Leaf Loading Ltd. Attention: Keith Beerling, Human Resources Manager By email: hrd@mlloading.com By fax: (250) 614-7278
Or give Keith a call at (250) 277-1907
B16
BIG NORTH
Friday, December 6, 2013
www.pgfreepress.com
GRAND OPENING!
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