Prince George Citizen October 17, 2019 by Prince George Citizen

Employment cause for optimism HOUSE FIRE KILLS ONE

MARK NIELSEN CITIZEN STAFF

mnielsen@pgcitizen.ca

The city’s unemployment rate stood at 5.7 per cent in September, according to Statistics Canada labour market survey numbers issued last week.

That’s up from 4.9 per cent year over year, but CNC economics instructor Al Idiens sees some silver linings in the supporting numbers.

Not only is the number of people holding down jobs up, standing at 49,900 compared to 49,000 in September 2018, but so is the number seeking work, at 3,000 compared to 2,500 the year before.

“In some respects, I would’ve expected fewer people seeking work because in September a lot of the students will leave the workforce and return back to school,” he said.

Idiens said the rise could be a function of a number of construction projects winding down, forcing people to look for

other work. But he also said people could simply be more optimistic about their job prospects, “because you’re not going to go looking for work if you’re convinced that there’s no work out there.”

Countering Idien’s first theory is that the value of building permits issued by city hall in August reached $28 million, spread over 61 projects, more than double the value reached over the same month last year, although spread over the same number of projects.

“That may well have spread some of the working, keeping the unemployment rate from going higher,” he said.

Idiens also suggested the rise of the number of people seeking work could also be a function of a rise in the number of people of working age in the city, which stood at 52,900 compared to 51,500.

“I don’t see loads and loads of moving vans heading south or anything like that around here,” Idiens said. “People seem to be staying. The housing market seems

to be reasonably active... nothing stays for sale too long.”

On the ailing forest industry, Idiens said sawmill workers collecting Employment Insurance often aren’t seeking work because they expect to be back on the job before the benefits run out. The provincial government has also committed $40 million over two years towards bridging older sawmill workers to retirement.

In September, the number of people of working age not seeking a job was 20,200, down from 21,300 a year previous.

Idiens said the unemployment rate remains low for this area.

“For a city like Vancouver, it would be high because you can usually find something in that region that fits into the kinds of skills you have, whereas here there aren’t as many businesses and there isn’t as much variety in the workplace, so it tends to be harder to find work,” he said. “Usually, you can find an unemployment rate of about seven per cent.”

Citizen staff

A 40-year-old man has died from injuries sustained in an explosion house fire Saturday on Chilako.

Police say four adult males were transported to hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the incident. The other three men are expected to survive. A dog also did not survive.

Frontline officers arrived minutes after getting the report at about 9:15 p.m. Saturday to find the home engulfed in flames.

Officers provided emergency care to the injured and evacuated nearby residences.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation and the site has been secured.

Witnesses and video evidence show the occupants of the house were handling large quantities of gasoline.

On Tuesday morning, RCMP fire investigators were on the scene with members of the RCMP’s forensic identification section to gather evidence to determine whether the incident is of a criminal nature.

The residence is well known to police and has been the subject of police investigations in the past.

Larry Furmanczyk lives on Chilako Street and had just gone to bed when he heard the first of several explosions. Furmanczyk said the house is notorious in the neighbourhood and is known to police, who have visited the occupants several times in the time he’s lived there.

“I just heard a big boom and I recognized a flash of light and it subsided before the house was totally engulfed in flames,” said Furmanczyk. “The cops know about that place for a number of years. It’s been going on for a little while. I think all the people in the neighbourhood were hoping the last time would be it, and whoever the owner is they would have made sure nobody nefarious was coming into the neighbourhood.”

Maria Branco was at her home a few houses away when the fire erupted.

“My dog barked and I went to the window and I saw the flames coming up,” said Branco. “After it started burning I heard some bangs. I did go outside but I wasn’t allowed to go down that way.

“The neighbours all called it the drug house or the crack house. There was a lot of activity went on around there. It was not a safe place. This area is a nice place to live and I think right now that’s a good clean-up.”

Public Hearings and OtHer nOtices

Public Hearings

WHAT:

Public Hearings regarding:

• Proposed Temporary Use Permit Applications

• Proposed Cannabis Licensing Applications

• Proposed amendment to “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”

WHEN: 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 4, 2019

WHERE:

Council Chambers of City Hall, 2nd Floor, 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC

PROPOSALS:

1. Temporary Use Permit No. TU000052

Applicant: Cariboo Cannabis for 0829328 BC Ltd., Inc. No. BC829328

Subject Property: 100 Tabor Blvd

The purpose of the proposed Temporary Use Permit is to allow Retail, Cannabis use on the subject property. The applicant has successfully completed the required financial integrity checks and security screenings for a non-medical cannabis retail store required by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch.

In accordance with the Local Government Act, temporary use permits can allow a use not permitted by a zoning bylaw. These permits may only be issued for a maximum of three (3) years and may be renewed once for an additional three (3) years.

The proposed Temporary Use Permit applies to the property legally described as Lot A District Lot 1427 Cariboo District, Plan 20420, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #1 below.

2. Cannabis License Application No. CN000007

Applicant: Cariboo Cannabis for 0829328 BC Ltd., Inc. No. BC829328

Subject Property: 100 Tabor Blvd

The applicant has applied to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for a Cannabis License for a non-medical retail cannabis store on the subject property. The applicant has successfully completed the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch financial integrity check and security screening for a non-medical cannabis retail store. The proposed hours of service are: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The proposed Cannabis License Application applies to the property legally described as Lot A, District Lot 1427, Cariboo District, Plan 20420, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #1 below. Notice of City Council’s decision will be forwarded to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for their review and final determination on this application.

Location Map #1

100 Tabor Boulevard

3. Temporary Use Permit No. TU000053

Applicant: Earth to Sky Cannabis Company Ltd. for PRP Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. BC0951609

Subject Property: 1533 3rd Avenue

The proposed Temporary Use Permit applies to the property legally described as Lot 9, Block 130, District Lot 343, Cariboo District, Plan 1268, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #2 below.

4. Cannabis License Application No. CN000008

Applicant: Earth to Sky Cannabis Company Ltd. for PRP Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. BC0951609

Subject Property: 1533 3rd Avenue

The proposed hours of service are:

Monday to Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The proposed Cannabis License Application applies to the property legally described as Lot 9, Block 130, District Lot 343, Cariboo District, Plan 1268, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #4 below.

Notice of City Council’s decision will be forwarded to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for their review and final determination on this application.

Location Map #2

1533 3rd Avenue

5. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9043, 2019”

Applicant: BC Liquor Distribution Branch for Spruceland Shopping Centre Inc., Inc. No. 360048

Subject Property: 737 Central Street

Bylaw No, 9043, 2019 proposes to rezone the subject property from C2: Regional Commercial to C2c: Regional Commercial, as shown on Appendix “A to Bylaw No. 9043, 2019.

The purpose of the applications for Bylaw No. 9043, 2019 is to facilitate the retail sale of cannabis on the subject property, or other uses, pursuant to the proposed C2c: Regional Commercial zoning designation(s).

The proposed bylaw applies to the property legally described as Parcel Z (93965M) District Lot 937, Cariboo District, Plan 752, Except Plans 15509, 18581 and 17732, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #3 below.

Location Map #3 737 Central Street

HOW CAN I PROVIDE COMMENT?

Residents are invited to provide comment in writing or in person. Written comments should be submitted to the Corporate Officer by 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 29, 2019, to be included in Council’s Public Agenda package. Submissions received after this time will be provided to Council on the day of the Public Hearing for Council’s consideration. Submissions may be emailed to cityclerk@ princegeorge.ca, faxed to 250-561-0183, mailed or hand delivered to Legislative Services on the 5th Floor of City Hall. Please note that submissions for all application(s) form part of the Council Agenda, become public records and are posted on the City’s website. Residents who wish to speak in person can do so during the Public Hearing in Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on Monday, November 4, 2019. Please note Public Hearings are recorded and available on the City’s website for public viewing

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

A copy of the proposed applications and any related documents will be available for review by the public in Development Services on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on October 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, November 1, and November 4, 2019, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHO CAN I SPEAK TO?

For more information, please contact Development Services in person, by telephone at 250-561-7611 or by email to devserv@ princegeorge.ca.

VOlunTeer FOr THe ciTY OF Prince geOrge

Make a difference in your community!

The City is seeking the expertise of residents interested in serving on the Prince George Public Library Board.

The Board meets monthly and is responsible for providing library services and programs in Prince George by establishing the policies, goals and objectives of the library and advocating for the library in the greater community.

The City is accepting applications to fill three volunteer positions on the Board with two-year terms beginning January 1, 2020 and ending December 31, 2021, and two interim volunteer positions on the Board to fill the remainder of the term ending December 31, 2020

Involvement with council committees, commissions, and boards provides residents the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of our municipality and to provide input on important civic issues.

All applicants to the Prince George Public Library Board are required to undergo a Criminal Records Check. Information on the Library Board, application forms and details on the application process and Criminal Record Checks are available on the City’s website or may be picked up from the Legislative Services Department, 5th Floor City Hall.

Deadline for Applications: 5:00 p.m. Friday, October 25, 2019

Completed applications, including a completed Criminal Records Check, may be mailed or hand-delivered to City Hall (1100 Patricia Boulevard), emailed to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, or faxed to (250) 561-0183.

For any questions or to have an application form mailed to you, please contact the Legislative Services Department at (250) 5617655 or cityclerk@princegeorge.ca

TROTTING

TURKEYS Al Witwicki wears a festive turkey hat at Otway Nordic Centre on Saturday morning during the inaugural Otway Turkey Trot 5K run.

Lheidli T’enneh still waiting for pipeline blast answers

MARK NIELSEN CITIZEN STAFF

mnielsen@pgcitizen.ca

Patience is wearing thin for the Lheidli T’enneh, one year after the Enbridge natural gas pipeline explosion forced members into a hasty evacuation.

In a statement, Malcolm McPherson, the lawyer representing the First Nation in a lawsuit against the company, said the community is “no closer to any resolution or answers post explosion.”

The Oct. 9, 2018 blast kicked up a fireball seen for kilometres, produced ground vibrations strong enough to rattle windows in nearby homes and the LTFN Band Office over two kilometers away.

In the lawsuit, filed in February, LTFN claims Enbridge provided inadequate communications and emergency response. As well as damages, the band is seeking an injunction ordering Enbridge to dismantle and remove the pipeline from LTFN territory.

About 139 kilometres of the so-called Transmission South pipeline traverses LTFN territory and 1.5 kilometres runs

through the southwestern corner of the LTFN’s Fort George No. 2 Indian Reserve.

“The community remains deeply traumatized by the explosion, and for good reason,” McPherson said. “Enbridge claims to operate world class pipelines and emergency response systems, but Lheidli T’enneh has seen no evidence of this claim to date.

“Further, Canada’s Transportation Safety Board continues to fail to provide Lheidli T’enneh with assurances of safety and the integrity of the Enbridge pipeline system following the explosion.”

In a statement, Enbridge officials said it has taken steps to “validate and improve the safety” of the system, including more frequent inspections and improved screening to evaluate and schedule maintenance work.

“While we have to wait for the Transportation Safety Board report, we are committed to fostering a strengthened relationship built on our shared priorities of safety, environmental protection and economic development,” officials added. “We have reached out to the LTFN to talk and remain open to sitting down and beginning a dialogue.”

Transportation Safety Board communications director Rox-Anne D’Aoust said its investigation is ongoing but also noted Enbridge was issued a safety advisory in June after the agency found cracking in 37 metres of the pipe taken in for analysis.

It attributed the trouble to the polyethylene tape coating, saying it tends to separate from the pipe and allow moisture to contact the pipe and shield it from the cathodic protection current, an electromechanical system used to prevent corrosion.

About 500 kilometres of pipe in the Transmission South system is coated with the tape, based on company records, the TSB further states, and suggests the company review its management practices to ensure the risks are mitigated.

“Investigations are complex, and we take the time necessary to conduct a thorough investigation to advance transportation safety,” D’Aoust said in an email. “Be assured that, if we uncover serious safety deficiencies during the course of our investigation, we will not wait until the final report to make them known.”

UNBC seeks mediator for faculty talks

UNBC is asking the Labour Relations Board to appoint a mediator to its faltering negotiations with its professors.

The move was made last week, the UNBC Faculty Association bargaining committee chief negotiator Ted Binnema said in an online posting and comes less than a week after members voted 84 per cent in favour of giving the committee authority to strike with 72 hours notice.

“This action delays the date upon which the FA will be in a legal strike position,” Binnema said and went to say the committee hopes a mediator will be appointed quickly.

Once that occurs, talks must continue for 20 days, although there is a small chance the mediator could call it off if the mediation has no chance of success.

“Although our past experience with mediation (in 2012 and 2015) has been that the employer has sought mediation only to cause delay and to consume our time and energy, we are optimistic that, knowing that they cannot force us into arbitration this time, they really will use this time to table realistic proposals that respect the mandate you have given us,” Binnema said.

For its part, UNBC administration said it feels a mediator will “help the parties engage in productive conversations. The employer has tabled a substantive proposal for the FA to consider and looks forward to continuing those conversations with the help of a mediator.”

Faculty have been working at UNBC without a contract since June 30.

At the end of 2015, the association agreed to a five-year deal backdated to July 1, 2014, which provided a 10-percent wage increase over the life of the deal.

The contract was the culmination of a lengthy dispute that included mediation, a two-week strike in March 2015 and finally binding arbitration through a process only permitted for first collective agreements.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Citizen staff

Groundbreaking held for student housing

MARK NIELSEN CITIZEN STAFF mnielsen@pgcitizen.ca

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held last week for the student housing complex now under construction in the city’s downtown.

Along with the Park House condominum project next to city hall, Mayor Lyn Hall called the complex a key part of the city’s strategy to encourage more people to live in the downtown and revitalize the area in the process.

“This is a really big deal for us,” Hall said. He also said it will be an opportunity for the University of Northern British Columbia and the College of New Caledonia to market

PRINCE GEORGE NATIVE FRIENDSHIP CENTRE 50th Annual General Meeting

Date: October 29, 2019

Location: Prince George Native Friendship Centre Power of Friendship Hall 1600 - 3rd Avenue

Prince George, BC V2L 3G6

Phone (250) 564-3568

Time: 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Member Registration/Dinner 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Annual General Meeting

For more information, please visit our Facebook page or our website at www.pgnfc.com.

themselves with a “little different approach.”

“It’s an opportunity for them to say ‘look, we provide top-rate student housing in the city and it’s in an ideal location,” Hall said.

Ground has already been cleared and space for underground parking has been dug out at the spot, a 0.34-hectare site at 1404 Patricia Blvd., next to the Marriott Courtyard and across from the Prince George Public Library.

Scheduled for completion by summer 2021, the six-storey wood-framed structure will hold 205 self-contained “micro-units” which are less than 29 square metres, or 312 square feet, made possible under a special zone developed specifically for the project.

A 10-year municipal tax exemption for eligible commercial and multi-family develop-

ment in the downtown area also helped get the project off the ground, according to Tim McLennan, design and operations director for Kelowna-based Factions Projects Inc.

“We don’t see a lot of private developers developing student housing... and the reason for that is it’s not really a high-yield investment so our partners on the development are what we call long-term institutional investors where the returns don’t have to be extreme, just as long as they’re steady,” he said. “And so, for that reason, the incentives become very important.”

Because it’s in an urban environment, McLennan said the design steps include finding ways to “connect with the street.”

“Typically, in a mixed-use development,

you’d have a lot of retail, maybe restaurants, where there’s a lot of interaction with the street,” he said. “In our case, what we have to offer are the amenity spaces - the lounges, the gymnasium, the weight room - the things that can connect to the street and you can see activity with the building and make it easy for the building to kind of interface with the surroundings.”

In contrast, he said on-campus student housing is typically made up entirely of residential.

“They might maybe have a cafeteria or food service but it’s almost all just sleeping units and study spaces and lounges are maybe not as front and centre and celebrated as ours.”

MOST POT CONSUMED BY HANDFUL OF USERS: STUDY

Just 10 per cent of users consumed about two-thirds of all the cannabis used in Canada in 2018, according to a study headed by a Northern Medical Program professor.

Dr. Russ Callaghan and his team looked at data from the 2018 National Cannabis Survey, which assessed patterns of cannabis use among Canadians at least 15 years old.

“The findings are similar to those in the alcohol field, where we have found that a small subgroup of drinkers usually consumes the majority of alcohol in the population,” Callaghan said.

The team also found that males reported consuming 60 per cent of the cannabis

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Fiddle dance

Friday from 8 p.m. to midnight at the PG Elks Community Hall, 663 Douglas St., there will be toe-tapping live music to swing your partner presented by the BC Old Time Fiddlers. Here’s a chance to do the old-time dances like polka, waltz, schottishe, barn dance, seven step, two step. Entrance fee of $10 includes light lunch, prizes. Cash bar. Tickets available at Books & Co or at the Door. Children get in free. Contact: 250-563-1025 beth.bressette@telus.net

Mike Vigano liVe

Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Oakroom Grill, 104-1023 Central St. W., Mike Vigano, local musician, will cover different eras with his guitar as he plays pop, rock and acoustic music. There is no cover charge for this event. Contact: 250-2771882 | oakroomgrill@hotmail.com

2019 Malaspina Fall Fair

Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 7900 Malaspina Ave., the annual Malaspina Fall Fair see a variety of local crafters and small businesses offer up their wares. There are raffle prizes, a bake sale and concession. Visit the 2019 Malaspina Fall Fair Facebook page for more information.

Blue rose gala

Saturday at 5:30 p.m. at the Kinsmen Community Centre, 777 Kinsmen Pl., featuring Elvis Elite, Steve Elliott there is a fundraiser for Project Friendship Society. There is a roast beef buffet dinner, bar, silent and cake auction, 50/50, door prize is a $500 Via Rail travel voucher. Tickets are $45 each at Books & Co and Studio 2880. Come celebrate Project Friendship Society and their 30th year of promoting community inclusion. Proceeds will go to SD 57 bursaries for graduating students.

consumed and males 15-34 years old were disproportionately represented in the heaviest-using subgroups.

“This is the first study to identify this pattern, and it may be important for publichealth strategies in designing interventions to reduce cannabis-related harms,” Callaghan said.

He said future studies will look at characteristics of the heaviest-using cannabis user group, as well as assess how cannabisrelated harms are distributed in Canadian society across individuals using different quantities.

Alcohol-related studies have found that five to 10 per cent of drinkers consume a majority of the volume.

There is also some evidence that most of

the alcohol-related harms in societies are not found in the group of heaviest-drinking individuals, but rather in the much more numerous low-to-moderate-drinking groups.

The finding has been used as the basis for developing interventions for the entire population rather than on strategies designed for the heaviest-using subgroups.

“At this time, we don’t know if the same pattern exists in relation to cannabis as it does for alcohol,” Callaghan said.

The team was made up of researchers from UNBC, the University of British Columbia, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

What: Public Hearing regarding Zoning Bylaw No. 2892, Amendment Bylaw No. 3138, 2019.

When and Where: 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 24, 2019 Salmon Valley Volunteer Fire Department Hall 5155 Salmon Valley Rd, Prince George, BC

The public hearing will be chaired by a delegate of the Regional District Board.

Owner: The owner is Ariane Gollub.

Proposal: Zoning Bylaw No. 2892, Amendment Bylaw No. 3138, 2019 proposes to rezone the subject property on a site-specific basis within the current Rural 3 (Ru3) zone to allow Cannabis Production use with a maximum site area of 1.0 hectare and no minimum site area. The subject property is legally described as The North West ¼ of District Lot 3821 Cariboo District Except Plans H42, 18466, 19198, 20234 and 20460 and is located at 27000 Hart Highway.

How can I provide comment? Anyone who believes that their interest in land is affected by the proposed bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the public hearing or to present written comments prior to or at the public hearing regarding matters contained in the bylaws.

Written comments: Written comments will be accepted by the Regional District in advance of the public hearing until 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 by:

Email: developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca

For news and updates, check out online at www.rdffg.bc.ca

Hand/Mail: 155 George Street, Prince George BC V2L 1P8 Fax: 250-562-8676

Written comments may also be submitted at the public hearing.

Any material received before or at the public hearing will become public information.

Need more info? A copy of the proposed bylaws and other relevant background material are available for review by the public at the Regional District office Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., between October 10 and October 24, 2019. The Regional District Office will be closed on Monday, October 14, 2019.

A staff report may be viewed online at: https://tinyurl.com/RDFFG-Bylaw-3138

Who can I speak to? Tyson Baker, Planner I, 250-960-4400

Citizen staff

Press: 4.33” (3 Column Adjustable Header)

Storage, washrooms available to homeless

MARK NIELSEN CITIZEN STAFF

mnielsen@pgcitizen.ca

The city’s homeless now have a place to store their personal items as part of a pilot project now up and running at one location and about to get going at another in the downtown.

Since Sept. 6, the Prince George Native Friendship Centre has been operating the service at 181 Quebec St., across from the Ketso Yoh men’s shelter.

And the Association Advocating for Women and Children is to have one up and running at its 144 George St. building by the end of this month.

The PGNFC’s Quebec Street location,

which also provides washroom facilities, is home to about 60 large bins and space appears to be running out as word has gotten around.

It’s also drawn upbeat reviews from the users, who have said it eases the burden of carrying around and keeping track of their possessions.

Under a check-in and check-out system, outreach workers keep track of who owns what. There are limits on how much clients can drop off and how long items can be stored. And, of course, illegal drugs, weapons and explosives are prohibited, as are perishable items.

It’s been open six days a week, closed on Sunday, while the hours have been going through adjustments to best suit

the needs of the users, the city’s strategic initiatives and partnerships director Chris Bone said in a report to council.

BC Housing is covering the cost of the lease and improvements to the building as well as the two outreach workers while the city is helping with the operating costs and a full-time site coordinator.

As for AWAC, executive director Connie Abe said a drop-in service is in the works where there would not only be storage for 60 to 80 bins but access to washrooms, showers and laundry.

It will operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, seven days a week, and be open to men as well as women. While AWAC provides outreach services to both genders, the shelter at 141 George was

CONSTRUCTION NEARS RECORD LEVELS

The value of construction activity occurring in Prince George is nearing last year’s record-setting pace, according to the latest building permit report from city hall.

During August, 61 permits for $28.2 million were issued, pushing the year to date total to $145.9 million and just $1.3 million shy of the mark reached by the same point in 2018.

“It looks like we’re on track for another

year where we’re going to be breaking records with the amount of construction going on in Prince George,” Coun. Garth Frizzell said during a city council meeting when the report was considered. By the end of 2018, permits for a recordsetting $186.4 million worth of work were taken out.

August was a banner month. By comparison, permits for $13.3 million were issued in August 2018 and $13.7 million in August 2017.

Highlights for August 2019 include 13 permits for $7.3 million worth of new single-family homes, as well as for a threehome townhouse and a four-home townhouse, adding up to a further $1.6 million. On the commercial and institutional side, four were issued for $4.5-million worth of commercial building alterations, two for a pair of new commercial buildings, adding up to $12.5 million, three for $437,000 worth of new industrial buildings and one for a $700,000 institutional build-

PLN HOSTING MAGICAL FUNDRAISER

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Staff Reporter chinzmann@pgcitizen.ca

Calling all magical creatures. It’s time to shine during the fifth annual Paint the Town Red: A Night to Believe in Magic fundraiser for Positive Living North held Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Coast Inn of the North.

In keeping with the theme, there will be a magic show, which is part of the Art of Magic DJ services, who will be providing the music for the dance held later in the evening.

During this dinner, dance and silent auction event guests are invited to dress up as wizards and fairies, witches and gob-

lins, unicorns and genies to bring home the believing in magic theme.

“The theme is really open, we didn’t want to tie it to one thing,” Nicole West, program manager at Positive Living North, said. “Anything is possible, right?”

People are encouraged to dress up as whatever they like, she added.

Positive Living North provides quality support, awareness education, and prevention services to people living with, affected by, and at-risk for HIV/AIDS/HCV. As a leader in preventative health, the organization promotes the holistic wellbeing of individuals and communities in Northern British Columbia.

During the fundraiser, there will be a roast beef dinner served with all the fixings, door prizes, a draw for a gift basket, silent auction items and the grand prize draw that people have purchased tickets for previously and can still purchase at the event will see the winner get two tickets anywhere WestJet flies.

“All the funds raised during the event will stay within the Positive Living North agency,” West said. “It goes directly to our membership services for family emergencies.”

If there is a death in the family and people needed to either go out of town or

previously open to women only.

“It was just a matter of going to the board and saying this is what is needed in the community,” Abe said. “I think it’s what is needed in the community, I want to try it and I want to see if it has an impact.”

Abe said the original plan was to provide storage only in a partnership with the city and BC Housing but through a review by Community Partners Addressing Homeless, a drop-in service was found to be a need.

In May, city council directed staff to work with up to three social agencies to develop ways to make their washrooms available for public use. Cost was estimated at about $36,000 at the time.

ing alteration.

“This quiet boom keeps going on and it’s hard to put into the context with all of the challenges economically around us in the region,” Frizzell said. “But we keep plugging on and we keep seeing the growth in construction and hearing stories of construction companies that are booked sometimes years in advance right at this point, so this is an incredibly promising time.”

come into town, the funding would assist with that. It also helps with emergency health care support, food, travel for medical reasons and medication.

“It’s really open when it goes into our donations,” West said.

If it’s something clients require that doesn’t fall under any other source of funding, Positive Living North will try to help.

“It’s used for healthy activities in the summer and a Christmas dinner in the winter that includes gifts for members as well as their children if they have any,” West said. “We wouldn’t be able to do this if the community didn’t support us.”

Positive Living North has received many donated items from individuals, small businesses, restaurants and corporations for the silent auction.

“The community has always been really amazing with that every year,” West said. “We hope to see the community come out and enjoy the fundraiser with us and just have a good time.”

Tickets are available at Positive Living North, #1-1562 Second Avenue, and are $45 each or $325 for a table of eight. For more information call 250-562-1172 or email info@positivelivingnorth.org

Man killed in fight

A man died from injuries suffered in a fight for which police are seeking witnesses, RCMP have confirmed.

RCMP said Gregory Wale, 35, was found dead in his home on Oct. 5, about eight hours after the altercation with another person at the corner of 20th Avenue and Redwood Street.

Wale was taken to hospital with serious injuries but left on his own accord shortly afterwards, RCMP said.

Police are continuing to look for Wale’s opponent in the fight, which occurred at about 11:20 p.m.

They are also asking anyone who witnessed the fight to contact the Prince George RCMP detachment at 250-561-3300.

They can also anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477 or online at www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers. If you provide information that leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a cash reward.

Condolences to Wale’s family, meanwhile, have been posted on his Facebook page.

Wale had a history of violence, according to court records. He has two convictions for assault causing bodily harm, committed in the Hazelton area in 2008 and 2010.

He was also to stand trial in November on counts of assault causing bodily harm, assaulting a peace officer and mischief

$5,000 or under from an alleged April 24, 2019 incident in Prince George.

Passengers OK after emergency landing

Passengers on a WestJet Encore flight that left Prince George Airport Saturday morning received a scare when the pilots decided to turn back and make an emergency landing.

The Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft, which left the airport at 10:53 a.m., landed safely 19 minutes later.

Emergency crews from the airport and first responders from Prince George Fire Rescue, RCMP and the B.C. Ambulance Service were dispatched to the scene.

Flaps are mounted on the trailing edge of fixed-wing aircraft and give the plane additional lift during takeoffs and are retracted once the plane is flying to lessen the drag.

WED 23 OCT

“The pilots made the decision to return to Prince George due to a flap issue,” said WestJet spokesperson Morgan Bell. “The flight landed safely and the plane taxied to the gate where all guests were offloaded. The aircraft has subsequently been removed from service for further inspection from our maintenance team.”

All 63 passengers on board got off safely and were subsequently re-booked on a later flight to Vancouver.

Citizen staff

Fire hall foundation nearly complete

Citizen staff

A new access to the Northern BC YMCA is now open as work next door on the new Fire Hall #1 progresses.

The entrance is now off Del Laverdure Way, on the south side of the facility off Massey Drive, directly across from Masich Place Stadium.

As of last week, workers were pouring concrete for the fire hall’s foundation, to be followed by the installation of structural beams and columns.

They are also currently constructing a new water main that will run from the intersection of Massey Drive and Carney Street to the site. In addition, bricklayers are arriving this week to begin the “block work” that will make up the walls of the facility. Later this fall, construction of the roof will begin.

All of the lanes on Massey Drive have

been reopened to traffic. For a few months, traffic was diverted around the work site to allow crews to widen the new entrance to the Y and to add a bus lane, meridians, and concrete sidewalks.

In October 2017, residents who cast ballots voted 83 per cent in favour of borrowing up to $15 million for the project, which will replace the 60-year-old Fire Hall #1 next to City Hall.

The new location is more centralized and will increase the area firefighters can reach within the critical eight-minute response time.

The new fire hall will be about 50 per cent larger than the current facility and have the capacity to house a modern emergency operations centre and fire operations communications centre.

The project is scheduled to be completed by next fall.

CENTRE

Board of Directors Call for Nominations

The Prince George Native Friendship Centre (PGNFC), through its Nominating Committee, seeks to identify and recruit new board members to its Board of Directors. We are seeking community members with a strong desire to provide strength-based and holistic leadership to one of the largest urban Aboriginal social service agencies in Prince George. Finance, Legal, Human Resource, Property Management and/or a Social Innovation background is an asset in order to best represent the diverse needs of our clients; other relevant experience is beneficial as well.

Why Volunteer as a PGNFC Board Member?

• Become a Leader in an urban Aboriginal Organization;

• Promote Personal Growth and Self-Esteem;

• Gain Professional Experience;

• Become one of the many volunteers who donated 13,122 volunteer hours to the PGNFC last year; and

• President, Treasurer, Elder Director and (2) Director positions are available, for a total of five positions.

Statement of Interest:

If you are interested in serving as a member of the PGNFC Board of Directors and would like to be formally considered at the Annual General Meeting, please forward any material(s) that speaks to your interest in becoming a Board Member, including the qualifications you possess, by October 27, 2019 @ 4:30 to Manon Desjarlais, Senior Executive Assistant at mdesjarlais@pgnfc.com or attend the meeting in person on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, Power of Friendship Hall at 1600 Third Avenue, Prince George, BC For more information about the Board of Directors’ Roles and Responsibilities and/or information about the Annual General Meeting, please refer to the PGNFC website at: www.pgnfc.com

The Annual General Meeting, scheduled for October 29, 2019, is as follows:

• 5:30-6:00 pm: Registration/Dinner

• 6:00-8:00 pm: Annual General Meeting & Door Prize Draws

• Free Parking

OPINION

Andrew Kurjata from CBC Radio and I accomplished a rare thing together on Twitter last week: we debated each other on an important issue without resorting to name calling.

Andrew started with this post:

“Just gonna throw it out there, not a fan of journalists telling people “no matter what, make sure you vote.” He then added “there are plenty of legitimate reasons for people to not vote. I dunno it just seems off-brand to me for regular newscasts or reports to endorse voting as an inherent good or duty.”

I had to bite. My response:

“There is NO reason in a democracy not to vote (just ask someone who lived in a place where they couldn’t) and a spoiled ballot (an X across the whole ballot) is a vote for “none of the above” - not voting is lazy and a dereliction of duty as a citizen in my humble opinion -

use it or lose it.”

Andrew’s response was to post a link to Wil Fundal’s story about a fellow from the Sucker Creek First Nation who’s not voting.

“As an Indigenous nationalist, it is contradictory to our position of Indigenous people having complete control over the social, economic, environmental, cultural and political aspects of our lives,” Nipâwi Kakinoosit said. “We’re under no obligation whatsoever to participate.”

Some food for thought but I wasn’t buying.

“Not only is that sentiment wrong but it discredits Mavis Erickson, Jody Wilson-Raybould and the many excellent past and present Indigenous people who enter political life to help their communities, inspire youth and move forward on the path to reconciliation,” I replied.

Andrew stuck to his guns.

“Doesn’t discredit anyone,” he wrote.

Why voting is good OUR VIEW YOUR VOTE MATTERS

Why bother? People who don’t consider themselves political often just shrug their shoulders and declare that their vote makes no difference.

I beg to differ.

Not voting is basically giving others your vote. Not voting means your opinion is not heard on the one day that matters the most. Regardless if your chosen candidate wins or loses by several thousand votes, your vote is counted, and the candidates are aware of the numbers. The winner will know how many people didn’t vote for them. They will notice who got how many votes.

Their constituency, those they represent, is made up of everyone, those who voted for them, the ones who didn’t. Every vote tells the parties something about the community they serve, their electorate.

For example, the Green Party has

THINKING ALOUD

TRUDY KLASSEN

never received enough votes to hold power, and barely enough to elect a few candidates. Their percentage of votes across Canada went as high as 6.8 per cent in 2008, but has gone down ever since. Why? Likely because over the years, other parties saw the votes Green candidates were getting, and adapted their platforms to address their concerns. So successful has this relatively small portion of voters been in moving the needle of public opinion, that in this election, the “green” message has come to be a major topic in the campaign.

For specifically northern concerns, it is especially important that our small

“He directly says it’s everyone’s individual choice whether to participate or not. I see it more like... if you love in N Korea you can vote. But that doesn’t make the system legitimate. And for some Indigenous people, our system is legitimate.”

The false equivalency annoyed me so my response was blunt.

“Comparing Canada to North Korea? OK...”

Andrew eloquently clarified his remarks.

“What I’m saying is, not everyone sees this country and its electoral system as legitimate - for valid reasons, looking at the history of the relationship with Indigenous people - therefore voting isn’t an inherent good for all.”

Andrew either got tired of arguing with me (I seem to get that a lot!) or he graciously left me with the last word.

“I respect but disagree with Indigenous (or any other) people who won’t vote, regardless of their reasons – it

is a free country after all and I don’t believe in mandatory voting – but let me ask you to consider this,” I wrote back.

“Would the US be better or worse if African-Americans refused to vote and take part in government because of slavery and ongoing racism? Individually, they have that right but Martin Luther King argued for the vote as a tool for change because of its inherent good - I defer to his wisdom.”

Just like there isn’t a right way to vote, it doesn’t really matter who was right in my debate with Andrew. The most important thing was that we had the discussion, which is what voting and elections are all about.

On Monday, those of you who take the time to vote will be heard and your ballot will help shape the political future of this country. For those of you who don’t vote, the 338 elected MPs still have a legal duty to represent you in Parliament as if you had.

Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout

populations show up in big numbers on election day. We need voter turnout to be huge, so huge that the pundits will talk about it the next day. We need our concerns to matter to Ottawa if we want to thrive. We need our concerns heard and addressed, because we are the harbinger for the rest of the country. As rural and remote Canada flourishes or struggles, so does the rest of Canada. Imagine what would happen if we went from 68 per cent in 2015 to 90 per cent this time round. We would be in the news. The issues that concern us would be in the news. That would be a huge win for us, regardless of who won the election.

Then there is the matter of courage, or in politics, political will. There are so many issues effecting us every day that need political will to be solved. Consider that we need the softwood lumber agreement to matter in Ottawa. We need better access to foreign markets for our cleaner fuels. Do we want

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Canadian technology to be purchased to improve emissions or is it okay for other countries to squeeze us out of those markets? Do we want to continue to allow American oil tankers to sail through our waters, but not Canadian oil? All these difficult issues require a great deal of political will to solve. The only thing (…. or at least the most benign thing) that creates political will is votes. High voter turnout is energizing to all the candidates, and will help hold the winner accountable. High voter turnout means people are watching, and will demand results. This is good for us.

So, take your family to vote. Offer your neighbour a ride to vote. If you get a call from a political party volunteer asking for your vote, thank them for their time, and go vote. On election day, some of you may get reminder calls to go vote. Vote. Just go vote. Because in the North especially, your vote matters.

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“I want to thank all the staff who have made this newspaper what it is. I intend to continue to support this newspaper and wish you all the best in this new endeavour – moving to a free, weekly newspaper format.” — Barb Dean.

Q

uestion of the week

SINGH WON ENGLISH FEDERAL DEBATE, CITIZEN POLL RESULTS SAY

Citizen staff

During the last Citizen poll we asked “who do you think won the English federal leaders debate?”

Readers said Jagmeet Singh won the debate by taking 40 per cent and 284

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CITIZEN MEMORIES

My earliest memory is of Neil Godbout, an attentive Dad with an active, curious young daughter. They spent much time at the fish tank at the PG Public Library (not the fancy fish tank it is today). I was the children’s librarian at that time.

I have fond memories of Bernice Trick who interviewed me more than once to focus on the benefits of reading aloud to young children.

I was deeply impacted by the work of Del Laverdure, at that time the publisher of the Citizen. I, and our whole community, mourned his death. I will never forget the contributions of Jason Peters who always gave his articles a personal touch. I knew more about those athletes than their physical accomplishments, thanks to Jason.

My files are full of photos taken by P.G. Citizen photographers — they are keepers and the yellowing of those pages makes clear how long ago the pictures were taken.

Neil Godbout’s editorials (once upon a time they were daily) have been an important part of my newspaper reading. The wonderful cartoons the paper once included always provided laughter, sometimes laugh out loud laughter at the start of each day.

Wendy in the circulation department was always so patient and pleasant when I made inquires about delivery. Colleen Sparrow’s contribution and commitment to this newspaper has been, and continues to be, so apparent.

I want to thank all the staff who have made this newspaper what it is. I intend to continue to support this newspaper and wish you all the best in this new endeavour — moving to a free, weekly newspaper format.

Barb Dean Prince George

NEW FRONTIER

In Mark Nielsen’s article “Gas plant, pipeline planned for B.C. Peace not all it seems, says West Coast Olefins CEO,” the claims of Ken James, CEO of West Coast Olefins misrepresent Enbridge and the Frontier project in favour of his own petrochemical project. Enbridge

votes, while Andrew Scheer followed closely with 33 per cent and 234 votes.

Trailing Scheer was Justin Trudeau with 16 per cent and 115 votes, while Maxime Bernier came in with five per cent and 39 votes and Elizabeth May came in with five per cent also and 38 votes.

There was a total of 710 votes. Remember this is not a scientific poll. Next Citizen poll question asks “how do you decide who you’re voting for?” To make your vote count visit www. princegeorgecitizen.com.

was not offered an opportunity to comment on or correct the factually incorrect claims made against our company or to clarify the scope of the project for this article.

The Frontier Project is wholly located within British Columbia and does not include connections with any pipelines to transport natural gas liquids (NGLs) out of B.C. The proposed NGLs extraction plant would be located near Chetwynd and connected to a pipeline that would deliver NGLs to facilities within B.C. The purpose of the project is to extract NGLs off already existing natural gas pipeline systems, process it into products like propane, butane and condensate and then transport those products via truck and rail to market, so British Columbians can gain increased benefit from a resource that is not cur-

rently being used to its full potential. At this time, our customers do not plan on recovering ethane through the Frontier Project due to a lack of ethane market. If West Coast Olefins’ proposed project moves forward, and provides value to our customers, then we believe it would complement the Frontier Project.

The Frontier Project is still in the early stages of development and we have not yet made a final investment decision. If the project proceeds, it will create local jobs during construction and throughout the life of the project, will provide tax revenue for the B.C. government, and will support economic growth in the province.

Tim Curry, Vice President Canadian Gas Transmission & Midstream Enbridge

GOOD FOR THE KIDS

I just wanted to pass along a kudos to the classes from Spruceland Elementary who were running their hearts out at Rainbow Park the other day. I see so many kids just stuck inside these days. It was refreshing to see their rosy cheeks and huge smiles competing with their classmates. I also walk through this park regularly and I am shocked to see it empty much of the time. My generation played outside from dawn till dusk.

So to the faculty involved in organizing the event, it was evident it was a success given the faces on those kids. Kudos for social engagement and enjoying nature.

Marie Perry Prince George

Grateful for the right to vote

Ialways get very excited at election time. This is the moment when we can freely choose who will represent us, the moment when we play a vital role in the direction of our government.

As I read statistics on voter turnout however, I am confused as to why others do not share my enthusiasm. Perhaps I need to reflect on why I am so invigorated by the democratic process.

For one thing, I’ve lived under two of the most notorious dictators of the 20th century, Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines and Mobutu Sese Seko in the Congo. I saw how they not only manipulated the election process, the also controlled the press, limited academic freedom, and threatened open dialogue. People were imprisoned, exiled and even killed just for having their own ideas. I also have German family members who lived through the Nazi era. When it became clear that Adolf Hitler would not deliver on his promise to provide a better alternative to Germany than communism, people were not allowed to voice any opposition. My grandfather was arrested and lost his job as a school teacher simply for discussing this topic in a private conversation.

How could I not be grateful that I have the freedom to question the practices of my government through direct contact with politicians and through the press?

As an educator, I enthusiastically embrace the responsibility to empower young people to explore their individual views and take a stand on what is important to them.

Perhaps this is what moved me to become a columnist as well, to give legitimacy to the proclamation to my students that we all have a voice that we have the right to express. Indeed, I recognize how fortunate I am to live

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

in Canada. There are few countries in the world where I would be allowed to so openly present my views, respectfully question those in power and even challenge the government.

These are all vital elements of our democratic process, and as I look around me during this election I see other ordinary citizens putting their lives on hold to campaign for my support, for the right to serve me as a member of parliament. How can I not be thankful?

I have now been to several political forums in local ridings, and I am truly impressed with the demeanor of our candidates. Perhaps it is a northern Canadian trait, but they are far more respectful than the federal leaders. They are willing to listen to each other, contemplate questions from the audience, and recognize that what will move us forward as a country is not the platform of one party, but the shared ideals of all Canadians.

Our country is far from perfect, and our world is facing tremendous challenges as we move into the future. The only way to survive is to walk together. The only way to uncover the best solutions is to truly listen to one another, and the only way to be heard is to speak.

May we each speak our mind loud and clear on Oct. 21. May each vote be an exercise of our gratitude.

— Gerry Chidiac is a champion for social enlightenment, inspiring others to find their greatness in making the world a better place. For more of his writings, go to www.gerrychidiac.com.

WorkSafeBC

Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C.

Hereby gives notice of proposed amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (BC reg. 296/97, as amended)

WorkSafeBC is holding public hearings for proposed amendments to Parts 8, 16, 20, and 21 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation:

Public Hearings

You are invited to provide feedback on the proposed amendments by oral presentation at the public hearings and/or in writing. Please register if you wish to make an oral presentation at the public hearings by telephoning 604-232-7744 or toll free in BC 1-866-614-7744 prior to the hearing.

Information on the proposed amendments and the public hearings, including details of registration/ participation procedures, are on WorkSafeBC’s website at worksafebc.com

Public Hearing Details

Date Location

October 29, 2019 Ramada Plaza 444 George Street, Prince George, BC

November 5, 2019 Coast Kamloops Hotel 1250 Rogers Way, Kamloops, BC

November 7, 2019 Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort 100 Harbour Road, Victoria, BC

November 14, 2019 Pacific Gateway Hotel 3500 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC

Session Times: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Written Submissions

The deadline for receipt of written submissions is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2019. Written submissions can be made online or via e-mail, fax, mail, or delivered at the public hearings during the session times.

Online: via the WorkSafeBC website at worksafebc.com

E-mail: ohsregfeedback@worksafebc.com

Fax: 604-279-7599; or toll free in BC: 1-877-279-7599

Mail: Policy, Regulation and Research Division

Subject: Proposed Regulatory Amendments

WorkSafeBC – Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C.

P.O. Box 5350, Station Terminal Vancouver, BC V6B 5L5

The view from on high

Before going on to further meditations, an explanation is owed to readers regarding the new publishing rhythm for the Citizen and what it will mean for content from yours truly. In days of yore, Right of Centre fell on Wednesday, with a submission deadline of Tuesday at 2 p.m. That, and the fact that few holidays could move this space, gave me ample opportunity to comment on current events in all but real time, which influenced my style as well as my choice of topics.

Now the deadline is Friday, but the column is not actually published until the following Thursday. In case anyone was unclear on this point, a lot can happen in the days between my last keystroke and the printing or posting of those musings. Thus, I must comment in a way that can stand a week-long onslaught of the news cycle, which will require a more philosophical and historical approach regarding current events. Please be patient as I navigate these new realities.

In the meantime, editor-in-chief Neil Godbout unintentionally suggested a great first theme, given the freedom from constraints allotted by the new format, when he said: “see it as an opportunity to discuss things from 30,000 feet rather than get stuck in the weeds every week.”

Here then are some thoughts about our ascent to nine kilometres above Earth as well as what views might be available by remaining there for the foreseeable future. The first thing to say is buckle your seatbelts ,comrades, because unlike previous melees in the muck of full contact ideology, we’ll be flying over enemy territory and catching a lot of flak. Luckily, with a full week to write, old foes will now face an even greater amount of indiscriminate, explosive truths.

It must also be noted that plenty of smoking and smouldering is welcome on board, but the sanctimonious will be granted a free, mid-flight descent via silk parachute. This country has issues that it

RIGHT OF CENTRE

NATHAN GIEDE

refuses to recognize or address - those in league with such cognitive dissonance are welcome to make asses of themselves in the comments and anywhere else, practicing for their ruinous final exam with the Almighty. But ignorance will not be treated as strength here.

Indeed, the acts and omissions that continue to cripple Canada will be easily observable from our plane of pontification, up in the wild blue yonder. No issue is too taboo: from abortion, the Indian Act, military procurement, political chicanery, quislings at city hall, workers rights, all the way to whatever topic starts with “Z” (zealots of Gaia?), anything will be discussed to make up for the lack of inflight entertainment. More conventional topics will be mentioned begrudgingly.

Such pugilism is nothing new, but by the grace of Godbout, the mass of these pieces will cleave to that most important of the physical laws – inertia. From our vantage point on high, we can honestly hope to observe the first realignment of peoples and powers, or the asteroid that will smash the mentalities and facilities holding this country back from true greatness. Perhaps this is the real advantage of being 5.5 miles in the sky: signs earthly and astrological are clearer.

Thus, the new format at the Citizen actually offers a chance for those who care about our community, dominion, and world to demand reform in a far more articulate manner. Clearly, a different vehicle is necessary if we hope to maintain a humane existence; I fully intend to join in on that final boarding call, by highlighting what methods have been proven and can work again.

Visit the WorkBC Centre nearest you today for help in finding your next job!

Visitez le centre WorkBC le plus près de chez vous aujourd’hui pour vous aider à trouver votre prochain emploi!

Barlow a pioneer for area women

Norma (Millar) Barlow was born in Vancouver in 1939.

Here is her story in a nutshell.

Her parents Reg and Viola Millar met in Elkhorn, Man. Reg traveled to the Yukon, found work and promptly sent for Viola.

Her mother was determined to marry her father so she took a train to Vancouver, boarded the Princess Nora on Aug. 22, 1933 and headed for Skagway, Alaska. At Skagway, she caught the train, traveled over the White Pass to Whitehorse and transferred to the Klondike Queen headed for Mayo Landing.

The boat broke down along the way. Undeterred, Norma’s mother had to stay in Stewart Crossing for a week. She cooked in the hotel in exchange for a room and finally arrived in Mayo on Sept. 21. Norma’s parents were married the next day.

Norma was born in Vancouver because there were no doctors in Mayo Landing. They survived -60 to -70 temperatures in the winter, floods in the spring and mosquitoes beyond belief. In 1941, the mines shut down and the family of four headed for Lulu Island at the coast. Later, they moved to the Soda Creek area where Norma grew up and went to school in nearby Williams Lake. After high school, she worked at the Bank of Montreal and married Dean Barlow from Soda Creek in 1958. They

SENIORS’ SCENE

KATHY NADALIN

had a daughter Leslie (deceased) and three sons; Ross (Liz), Chris and Dallas (Lorie) who in turn gave them nine grandchildren. They separated in 1977.

Dean got transferred to Quesnel and Norma was hired on the spot by the Royal Bank of Canada.

In 1965, she was transferred by RBC to Prince George. They started their family in 1966 and she had to retire because of no maternity benefits. She went back to RBC in 1968. It was in 1968 that the nine-story Royal Bank building at Sixth Avenue and Victoria Street officially opened.

She left the bank again in 1970 when she had their third son.

In 1971, the bank called and once again offered her a job.

Norma said, “I told them I would come back to work but not into an accounting job. I became the first RBC female loans officer at the main branch. Some of the old-time bank managers had a problem with the fact that I was a female until I was able to prove myself.

“It was a time when it was not easy for a woman to get a loan from a bank.

See BARLOW, page 14

Diabetes affects the circulation and immune system, which in turn impairs the body’s ability to heal itself. Over time, diabetes can damage sensory nerves (this is known as “neuropathy”), especially in the hands and feet. As a result, people with diabetes are less likely to feel a foot injury, such as a blister or cut. Unnoticed and untreated, even small foot injuries can quickly become infected, potentially leading to serious complications.

Women were not given a proper chance to borrow money and earn their own credit rating; it wasn’t long until I changed that.

“In 1977 I opened an all-female RBC branch at Eighth and Ahbau - where M&M Meats is now located.

“I worked there until 1980 and transferred to Vancouver to manage branches at Cambie and 57th Avenue and at Balsam and Fourth Avenue. I returned to Prince George in 1983 in a position as manager of retail and operations.

“In 1986 I transferred to Vancouver to manage a branch at the Coquitlam Centre, then executive banking in downtown Vancouver and finally into a private banking centre in Kerrisdale.”

Norma moved to Kelowna for a while

and then back to Prince George. She retired at the age of 65 after 35 successful years in the banking industry.

Her volunteer work in Prince George, during her career, included serving as a director for the YMCA, the P.G. & Regional Planning Board and working with the Chamber of Commerce.

Norma served as president of the Greater Vancouver Crime Stoppers, formed a provincial Crime Stoppers board, started a student Crime Stoppers program in the schools in Vancouver and worked with the municipal police force to establish a 24-hour tip line which now serves all the Crime Stoppers program in the province.

In her retirement, with her ingenuity and tenacity, and at the request of RCMP Superintendent Steve Leach, she

started the Prince George Crime Stoppers. During the 23rd Crime Stoppers International Conference in Ottawa, she was presented with the Crime Stoppers International Civilian of the Year award and the Prince George Crime Stoppers program received a total of 11 awards, the highest number ever won by a

single program in the 23 years of the international conferences.

In closing, Norma said, “I would like to encourage all females in the workplace to decide what they want to do, what they want to accomplish and then just go for it. Believe in yourself, enjoy your work and head for the top.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Norma Barlow poses for a photo at her Prince George home.

SPORTS

TED CLARKE Staff Reporter tclarke@pgcitizen.ca

The Duchess Park Condors are rediscovering their roots on the Prince George high school football field.

Recovering from near-extinction a couple years ago and the total collapse of the senior team program following the death of head coach Matt Pearce, the Condors junior varsity team is dominating the local junior varsity scene, raising hopes Duchess Park will return to double-A varsity senior football by next season.

Heading into Wednesday’s game against the Kelly Road Roadrunners, the Condors were a perfect 2-0 after convincing wins over the Prince George Polars (42-0 on Oct. 2) and the College Heights Cougars (33-14 on Oct. 9).

The Condors were a double-A varsity powerhouse with Pearce calling the shots as head coach. They won back-to-back PG Bowl titles in 2013 and 2014, then lost to PGSS in the 2015 final. In 2016, eight months after Pearce’s death, the Condors captured the Northern Conference title again. But in 2017, down to just a dozen players, the senior team folded after just one game.

The junior Condors have followed a similar roller-coaster path. They won all 18 games they played in the first three seasons of the junior varsity league, from 2013-15, but the wheels fell off in 2016, the year Pearce died. They had just one win over the next three seasons and defaulted several games in that time. Last year, with a blend of Grade 11 players new to football, the Condors were limited to exhibition games only. Bit this year, it‚s a much different story.

Junior varsity Condors head coach Steve Porter says the Duchess Park rebuilding project is similar to what happened at Kelly Road a few years ago when senior numbers dropped sharply and the Roadrunners took a year off from the double-A varsity league to retool in 2015. The Kelly Road juniors took their lumps the first couple years but won the North Division title in the third year of the rebuilding.

Football Condors fly again PETTERSEN SETS PERSONAL BEST

One of a record 47,000 runners who crowded the narrow streets and raced through driving rain and wind in the Berlin Marathon, Prince George’s Jacqui Pettersen still managed her best-ever marathon time. The 48-year-old Prince George neurologist finished the 42.2-kilometre race on Sept. 29 in three hours one minute 18 seconds.

“It wasn’t quite as fast as I was hoping for, I was hoping to be sub-three (hours), but once again the course was really crowded, even though I started further ahead than I did last year,” said Pettersen.

“It was quite surprising how packed it was with runners and I felt like for the first

“Throughout our league the power kind of rises and falls and it depends on the kids too and who happens to be there at the time, so everybody goes through their peaks and valleys, numbers-wise,” said Porter. “Losing Matt changed definitely quite a

bit of stuff and the profile of the sport in the school changed a little bit and it became less popular. Not having somebody in the school (to recruit players) always has a big impact and I wasn’t working (at Duchess Park), so you can’t go chase kids down.”

Porter was still coaching the Kelly Road junior team when he began teaching at Duchess three years ago. Now, as an in-house recruiter, he says

it’s been easier to convince students new to football to try it out for the Condors and the roster has swelled to 23 players, up from 19 players in 2018. The junior Condors started the exhibition season with wins over College Heights and Westsyde of Kamloops, then went to Mission on Sept. 28 to play the triple-A Roadrunners, where the Condors lost 22-12.

10 K or so I couldn’t actually run my own pace. It rained quite heavily, especially the last third of the race, and the race numbers they provided weren’t entirely waterproof. I thought of it ahead of time and reinforced the pinholes with tape but it wasn’t enough and the one corner of my bib kept falling off and I had to stop and keep re-pinning it. That slowed me down a little bit but some runners were completely losing them. Other than that, it was great.”

Pettersen was the 153th-fastest woman out of more than 16,000 and placed 11th overall in her 45-49-year-old female class.

“I was really pleased,” said Pettersen. “My

previous PB was in London (last year) and it was 3:08:55, so that’s about eight minutes (quicker).”

Pettersen’s husband Kevin and her sons Kai, 11, and Max, eight, lined the route and were cheering her on. She saw them four times along the course.

Pettersen has now completed five of the Big Six marathons - Boston, New York, Chicago, London and Berlin (twice) - and she’s qualified for the sixth, the Tokyo Marathon, March 1, 2020, which will complete the list.

As a reward for finishing 11th in her age group in Berlin, Pettersen upped her world ranking to 33rd and she’s qualified for the

inaugural Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Championships on April 26 in London, England.

“London was my favourite marathon and I’m excited to be going back there,” said Pettersen. “The overall organization is exceptional, the way they have things laid out at the starting area you never have to wait in line. It’s very efficient and where I started last year it wasn’t congested.

“Of course, the eye candy of London and all the sites along the way, seeing Big Ben, the London Eye and finishing right in front of Buckingham Palace is pretty epic.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Duchess Park Condors player Noah Lank runs the ball while evading a tackle from College Heights Cougars defender Brayden Adams at Masich Place Stadium.

Minor Cougars back on track

They started the B.C. Hockey Minor Midget League season with a pair of lopsided losses and then sat out for a bye weekend so the Cariboo Cougars were anxious to get back on the ice to show what they could do.

After two highly-motivated performances against the North Island Silvertips, the Cougars can now say they’re on a two-game winning streak.

Last weekend at Kin 1, the Cats skated to 3-0 and 3-2 decisions against the Silvertips.

On Saturday, the Cougars got unbeatable goaltending from Tysen Smith and goals from Brady McIsaac, Linden Makow and Scott Cousins on the way to the victory. McIsaac and Makow scored their goals less than a minute apart late in the second period and Cousins gave the Cats some insurance with 3:42 left in the third. McIsaac also picked up an assist in the contest.

Jacob Hebert was the losing goaltender.

In Sunday’s game, the Cougars built a 3-1 lead and held on for the victory. Decker Mujcin scored what proved to be the game-winner 3:48 into the second period. North Island’s Wyatt Murray had the only goal of the third period but the Silvertips got no closer.

The Cougars gave up the first goal, to Walker Smith midway through the opening period, but Makow tied the score 51 seconds before the first intermission. Cousins then connected 1:46 into the middle frame and that was followed

quickly by Mujcin’s goal.

Jasper Tait was the winning goaltender and Ashton Sadauskas took the loss. The last-place Silvertips saw their

record drop to 1-5.

The Cougars began the year with 6-2 and 8-0 losses at the hands of the Okanagan Rockets.

This Saturday and Sunday, the Cats will try to add to their win total when they skate in Kamloops against the Thompson Blazers.

Citizen staff

Cariboo Minor Midget Cougars player Brady McIsaac breaks in alone while being checked by North Island Silvertips defender Kevin Okuma on Sunday morning at Kin 1.

Major Cougars sweep Giants

Goaltender Jordan Fairlie picked up the victory and Merik Erickson took the loss.

Alex Ochitwa scored 16 seconds into overtime to cap a 6-5 comeback victory for the Cariboo Cougars on Sunday in Abbotsford against the Valley West Giants.

The Cougars trailed 5-2 half way through the B.C. Hockey Major Midget League game but goals by Jaydon Merritt, Fischer O’Brien and Brennan Bott got them back onto even terms with the Giants. Bott’s tying goal came with 3:45 left on the clock. Ochitwa’s OT marker was his second goal and fourth point of the contest. He was set up by defenceman Mathew Magrath, who finished with two assists. Bott had two goals and one helper.

The teams were tied 2-2 after the first period. The Giants got on the board first with a shorthanded goal by Jacob Dorohoy five minutes after the opening faceoff. The Cougars responded with a power-play goal by Ochitwa and an even-strength marker by Bott but Brandon Litchfield tied things up with 1:07 left in the period.

The Giants took control with three quick goals in the second. Connor Farren’s power-play strike gave them a 3-2 lead about six minutes into the period. Dorohoy scored less than two minutes later and then Litchfield added to the Valley West total with his second goal of the game. Merritt’s goal, with 5:26 to go in the middle frame, stopped the bleeding and set the Cougars up for the two-goal third period and the eventual winner in extra time.

For the Cougars, the comeback win completed a two-game weekend sweep of the Giants. On Saturday, the Cats were deadly on the power play in a 4-1 victory.

In that game, the Cougars scored three of their four goals with the man advantage. Bott connected for two of them and Nico Myatovic had the other. The Cats also got a goal from Landon Ingham, while Kellan Brienen chipped in offensively with two assists.

Dakoda Miller was the lone marksman for the Giants. He broke Fairlie’s shutout bid early in the third period.

The Cougars led 2-0 after the first and maintained that advantage through a scoreless second.

After starting the season with an overtime loss to the Thompson Blazers, the Cougars (5-0-0-1) are now on a five-game winning streak.

The Giants slipped to 0-4-1-1.

The Cougars will be back on home ice on Saturday when they welcome the Vancouver Northeast Chiefs to Kin 1. The game (4:30 p.m. start) will be Pink in the Rink Night, the team’s annual fundraiser and awareness campaign in the fight against breast cancer.

The game will be sponsored by Taba and will feature a 50/50 draw that will start at $1,000. There will also be a Chuck A Puck contest with over $400 in prizes.

The Cougars and Chiefs will also play at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday.

ALL STAR COACHES

Citizen staff

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

ROCKING THE RINK Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir perform during Rock the Rink at CN Centre last Saturday night.

Kurbo capitalizes on diet culture

In February 2018, Weight Watchers announced they’d be offering their weight loss program to teens aged 13 to 17, free of charge. Unsurprisingly, the move was met with overwhelming criticism for how the company was promoting “dieting” in children and endorsing obsessive and unhealthy behaviours. Instead of backtracking on that decision, Weight Watchers doubled down and released the weight-loss app Kurbo by WW in August of this year.

While Weight Watchers may have rebranded themselves as WW, in an effort to appear less focused on weight, and more focused on wellness, the Kurbo app for children ages 8-17 focuses on weight as a measure of success, just like the adult program still does.

The Kurbo app is designed to be used by children to track their intake. In the app, foods are assigned a traffic light colour, symbolizing how they should be approached: “eat lots” of green foods, “watch the portions” of yellow foods, and “stop and think” with red foods. Green foods include all fruits and vegetables (except potatoes), yellow foods include lean proteins and pasta and red foods include desserts and sugary drinks (among countless other foods), according to the Kurbo website. However, it’s difficult to determine

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

KELSEY LECKOVIC

the criteria for each colour category when looking at the options. For example, almond butter and full fat yogurt are red foods; is it because they’re higher in calories or fat? Then why are plain rice cakes and diet pop yellow foods? Also, why is black coffee a green food? In fact, why is black coffee even an option for an eight-yearold? What is this teaching a child? –that they should be afraid of calories?

If an eight-year-old child were attending a birthday party, it’s likely the majority of the foods at that party would be categorized as “red” foods. Does that mean it’s better for that child to eat nothing, than have a piece of cake? Or should they carry a handheld food scale, to weigh and track everything they eat?

The Kurbo app contains quizzes designed to “teach” a child to identify which foods are green, yellow or red, effectively training a child’s eye to see foods as good and bad. Educational” videos are also encompassed in the app. One video entitled “Label Whisperer” encourages children to “read a label, the Kurbo way” and sift through ingredient labels to determine which ingredients are green,

yellow and red, and to treat them as such. This app does not promote an increased knowledge of food but instead villainies it, as something that should be approached with caution.

Users of the app receive push notifications to “upgrade” for personalized coaching. This is another example of a company using “coaches” or “counsellors” to push a product and give the consumer the impression that this “coach” is not only qualified to give them advice, but cares for their wellbeing. The Kurbo “Health Coaching Professionals” have degrees in business, economics and tourism management, among other non-nutrition related fields, with several possessing health coaching certificates.

Holding a health coaching certificate does not qualify an individual to give clinical nutrition advice to children and their parents, or to even understand the short and long-term impacts this diet would have on a child.

The Kurbo app program is licenced from the Stanford Packard Pediatric Weight Control Program, which is based on Dr. Leonard Epstein’s Traffic Light Diet, developed in the 1970s. The Stanford Program is quoted a number of times by proponents of the app, as well as by Kurbo themselves, to help give the app validity.

What isn’t mentioned by WW is the fact that there are quite a few differences between the Kurbo app and the Traffic Light Diet, so using research

Craft Fair Directory

on the Traffic Light Diet to support the perceived efficacy of the Kurbo app doesn’t even make sense.

While there is evidence to show that children have lost weight on the Traffic Light Diet, that does not mean that it’s appropriate or ethical. It is extremely important to consider the effects that weight-loss diets and related-talk can have on a child’s ability to eat intuitively, have a healthy relationship with food and avoid developing disordered eating behaviours.

The Kurbo app seems more like a gateway tool for creating lifelong WW customers, than the educational app it’s promoted as.

— Kelsey Leckovic is a registered dietitian with Northern Health working in chronic disease management.

Revamped Kia EV gets a little more Soul

PEDRO ARRAIS

Thinking electric? The 2020 Kia Soul EV offers a combination of style, function, power and better range.

This is the second generation of the allelectric subcompact hatchback, which first appeared back in 2014.

Unlike some of its competitors, such as the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt, the EV shares all of its body parts with its internalcombustion-engine brothers. The EV version is differentiated by different trim pieces and wheels.

Doing so allows Kia the advantage of spreading out the model’s development costs.

The 2020 model was an opportunity for designers to freshen up the four-door hatchback’s signature boxy design. The driving lights are narrower up front, taking advantage of new LED technology. The taillights are sculptured and quite distinctive, as well.

But the main changes are under the hood. The last Soul EV was a decent vehicle but, like many, suffered from a modest range of about 149 kilometres, driven by a 81.4-kilowatt permanent-magnet synchronous motor.

For 2020, Kia is now offering a choice of two trim models, the Premium at $42,595 and the Limited, with a list price of $51,595. I drove the former model.

The major differences between the two are power and battery capacity.

The Premium comes with a 39.2-kWh battery mated to a motor that offers 134 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque.

The Limited ups the ante with a 64-kWh battery and a more powerful electric motor that produces 201 hp — but torque remains the same.

Kia rates the driving range for the Premium at 248 km and the Limited at 383.

Consumers have been demanding better range when considering an electric vehicle — until they see how much more they have to pay. By offering a choice of two, Kia is following Nissan, which offers two battery capacities as well.

Although the EV Premium and the Nissan Leaf share similar-sized batteries, the Soul can be charged quicker — at just over six hours versus around eight hours — from empty using a Level 2 charger.

You can use a Level 1 charger (which plugs into a regular house socket), but be prepared to wait, as it will take a full 36 hours to fill the battery.

If you are lucky enough to find a 50-kilowatt DC fast charger on the highway, you can be 80 per cent full in 57 minutes.

signature boxy design.

While the increase in range is welcome, the biggest surprise came in the form of performance.

One typically doesn’t seek out an EV for power, but the 2020 Soul EV delivers an unexpected level of fun.

One feature common in all electric vehicles is their instant torque. With 291 poundfeet of torque available from a standstill, the little Soul scurries from a stoplight like no other economy car. The Leaf, by comparison, only gives you 236 lb.-ft. of torque under similar conditions.

Kia claims the Soul EV can do the 0-100 km/h sprint in under 10 seconds, and my seat-of-the-pants evaluation tells me that this is no exaggeration.

Although it is boxy and tall, it is also a bit of fun on twisty roads — especially in Sport mode (yes, a sport mode on an electric car).

Credit can be given to the battery under the floor, which helps with the vehicle’s centre of gravity.

Paddles on both side of the steering wheel are not to change gears, but to choose up to three different levels of brake regeneration. You can choose to coast, with no resistance whatsoever, but you can also come to a full stop without touching your brakes.

Please keep in mind that in your effort to recoup the last kilowatt of power, your brake lights are not activated and the driver

behind you won’t be aware of your deceleration intentions.

The designers were busy refining the interior of the Soul, as well. The cabin can best be described as engaging, with all the controls one would want falling easily to hand. The shift knob is history, replaced by a rotary knob that you turn clockwise to engage Drive and counterclockwise for reverse (so simple).

There is a 10.25-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, which includes navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Audio.

A wireless phone charger is also standard.

The boxy exterior pays dividends in the interior. While the Soul is a full 285 millimetres shorter than the Leaf, it can still fit in 1,735 litres (61.3 cubic feet) of cargo with the back seats down (more than double the Leaf’s 850 litres).

You also get a host of driving nannies to help keep you safe on the road, including lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert and forward collision-avoidance assist.

The electric-vehicle segment is fastmoving and dynamic. The 2020 Soul EV is an example of how much it can change and improve in a short period of time. Last year’s leader is this year’s also-ran. The new Soul EV is now the one to beat.

SPEC SHEET

TYPE: Subcompact four-door hatchback, front engine, front wheel-drive

ENGINE: Permanent magnet AC synchronous, 327 V, 134 hp at 2,600 to 8,000 r.p.m., 291 lb.-ft. of torque at 0 to 3,600 r.p.m.

TRANSMISSION: Single-speed reduction gear

BATTERY: 39.2-kWh lithium-ion polymer, 250 Wh/kg density

RECHARGE TIME: Level 1, 36 hours, Level 2, 6 hours 10 minutes, 50 kWh DC fast charge, 57 minutes, 100 kWh, 54 minutes

RANGE (KM): 248

DIMENSIONS (MM): Length, 4,195; width, 1,800; height, 1,605; wheelbase, 2,600

CURB WEIGHT (KG): 1,572 to 1,612

PRICE (BASE/AS TESTED): $42,595/ $44,490 (includes $1,795 freight and PDI and $100 AC tax)

OPTIONS: Nil

TIRES: 215/55 R17 on alloy wheels

FUEL TYPE: Electricity

FUEL ECONOMY (LE/100KM): 1.8 city/ 2.3 highway

WARRANTY: Five years/100,000 km new car, eight years/160,000 km EV components and five years/ unlimited km roadside assistance

Glacier Media

PHOTOGRAPH BY DARREN STONE, TIMES COLONIST

The 2020 Soul was an opportunity for Kia’s designers to freshen up the four-door hatchback’s

gone October 13 of last year, along with her husband, Svend, (earlier in the year).

Our mother, motherin-law, grandmother, along with our father, father-in-law, grandfather. It was hard to have you go but God had need of you.

Proverbs 13:22:

A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children…

Your loving family.

Kachkowski, Cecil Elmer

February 24, 1931October 6, 2019

With sadness we announce the passing of Cecil Kachkowski, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by wife, June; daughters, Cindy (Andy) Oglow and Lori (Denis) Bouvier; 4 grandchildren, Joel (Jenna) and Kimberley (Keith) Oglow, Dalton and Gavin Bouvier; 2 great granddaughters, Emily and Sadey Oglow; brothers, Gordon and Carmen Kachkowski; sister Dorene and many nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by parents, Elmer and Georgiana; brothers, Arnold and Verne. A memorial service will be held Prince George Funeral Service, 1014 Douglas St, on Friday, October 11, 2019 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation and SPCA will be appreciated.

Dolores Turgeon - Courteau, 94, of Kelowna BC passed away on Monday, September 30, 2019 surrounded by three of her daughters, Annette, Ida and Simone.

Terry Pratt

Aug 31, 1958 to Sept 28, 2019

Donna Pratt and family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all who attended the memorial. Thanks to all who sent flowers and love after Terry’s passing. Special thank you to all the Centennial Food family.

Sincere thanks from all of Terry’s family!

A simple graveside service will be held on Friday, October 18, 2019, at 11:30am. Following will be a Celebration of Life at the Evangelical Free Church at 1pm.

Paul William Richter May 3, 1928 - Oct. 10, 2019

Born May 11, 1925 in Coderre, Saskatchewan to Edoige and Katherine Matte. Dolores was predeceased by her daughter Ellen; spouses Jeff Turgeon and Jean Courteau; brothers Francis, Leo and Edward Matte; sisters Blanche Knoedler and Ellen Long; son in law Norris Plante; grandchildren Derrick Blackman, Leanne Burchill, Mearl Blackman and Kevin Plante.

Dolores leaves behind her brothers Louis Matte (Rolande), Ted Matte (Gabrielle) and sister in laws Emmy Matte and Maureen Matte. Dolores also leaves behind 5 daughters, Vivian Turgeon, Annette Turgeon, Ida Watson (Bruce) Simone Burchill (Ric) and Claudette Plante. Dolores was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dolores was a teacher who taught in Leoville, Spiritwood and Prince George. Together Dolores and Jeff farmed in Saskatchewan and owned Fort Enterprises in Prince George. Dolores was an active lifelong member of the CWL (Prince George and Kelowna) and a strong supporter of community and extended family. Following the death of Jeff, she married Jean Courteau and surrounded her new step family with love, friendship and loyalty.

Dolores was a prayer warrior all of her life. Her Catholic faith supported her strong faith in Jesus and His Mother Mary. Her prayers were always for her children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and community.

During the last decade of her life, Del became a resident of Three Links Manor in Kelowna BC. Del adopted many as part of her extended family and was always grateful for their kindness and attention.

Father Gilbert Bertrand OMI, will lead prayers on Friday October 18th 2019 at 6pm and will celebrate The Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday on October 19th at 10am at St. Mary’s parish, 1088 Gillette Street Prince George, BC. Interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Catholic Women’s League in care of St. Mary’s Parish.

Arrangements in care of Grace Memorial 250567-4814

Baker,Francis(Frank)W. January27,1930-October4,2019 Francis(Frank)Watson,bornJanuary27,1930,in HighPrairie,Alberta,passedawaypeacefullyathome onOctober4,2019.Predeceasedbyhisex-wife, Mary;andbrothers,PhilandBill.Survivedbyhis sister,Barb;children,Cheryl,Chris,Mike(Trudy), Ken(Shelley),Casey(Rosemarie),andDarcy (Chrystal);grandchildren,Melissa,Chris,Azalya, Dakota,Lexie,Ryan,Serena,William,Brittney, James,andJasmin.Inhisfinalyears,Frankenjoyed workinginhismassivegarden,golfing,andfishing. Noservicesbyrequest.Donationsgratefully acceptedinhisnametotheCanadianHeartand StrokeFoundation.

Place your ads online anytime! princegeorgecitizen.adperfect.com

Paul passed away peacefully in his sleep at the dawn of a beautiful fall day, leaving a legacy of kindness and contribution to his community. Paul will be sadly missed by his children Peter (Colleen), Jo-Anne (Al Pietroniro) and Karen (Derek Barnes); his grandchildren Kris (Ashley Kuharski), Karmen (Jesse Brown) and Kolby Richter, Katherine (Andrew Seto) and Erica Pietroniro, Sam (Katy Fabris) and Joe (Alisha Kaszonyi) Barnes; great grandchildren Elliot, Jae and Jordie Brown; his dear friend Stella McKone; his brothers Claude and Raymond Richter, sister in law Linda (Ray) Travers; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and all those who were touched by his presence in their lives. He was predeceased by his wife Shirley in 2008, his parents Paul and Josephine Richter, sisters Josephine (Roger) Capelle and Dorothy (John) Sonntag; and sister in law Carol Richter. Paul’s greatest joy was found in helping others and in the close bonds he formed with people of all ages. Paul’s life was guided by a deep and quiet faith. In celebration of his life a Memorial Service will be held at Immaculate Conception Church, 3285 Cathedral Ave., on Saturday Oct. 19th, 2019 at 11:00 am with Father Chris Lynch officiating. Interment will follow at the Prince George Cemetery. In memory of Paul, donations to the Prince George Hospice House, or to a charity that holds special meaning to you, would be appreciated. Arrangements in care of Grace Memorial.

In Memoriam

Julia Serup,

Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

Roy Victor Unrau, born January 29, 1953, in Chilliwack, BC, passed away on October 2, 2019, in Prince George, BC.

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries Obituaries

BALDWIN,JEFFREYJ.

November2,1960-September30,2019

InlovingmemoryofJeffreyJohnBaldwin, WhopassedawayonSeptember30,2019. Lovinghusband,father,andpapa. Heissurvivedbywife,Eleanor; Son,James(Jenna); Daughter,Katharine(Ryan); Granddaughter,Elizabeth.

DonationstoPGHospiceHousein Jeffery’smemoryareappreciated.

TIMMINS,Mary(Marie)B. October15,1944-September29,2019 Afteracourageousbattlewithcancer,Mariepassed awaypeacefullyonSunday,September29,2019,at theageof74withherlovingfamilybyherside.

Afterherseconddiagnosis,Mariewasdetermined thatshewouldliveherlifetothefullestandnotlet theillnessslowherdown.Shewasabeautifuland stronglady,toseeheryouwouldneverknowthat shewasbattlingcancer.Shewillbeforever rememberedandmissedmorethanshewillknow.

Shewaspredeceasedbyherhusband,James(Jim), of53years.Mariealsoleavesbehindhertwosons, Mark(Brenda)andDerek(Mary);herthree grandchildren,(Ashlynn,Autumn,andLogan);her sister,PearlCraig;andherextendedfamilyin Scotland.

MarieandhusbandJimleftScotlandforCanadaas newlywedsontheCunardRMSCarinthiainOctober 1966,landinginMontreal,travellingacrossCanada bytrainbeforearrivinginPrinceGeorge,BC.

DuringtheearlyyearsinPrinceGeorge,Marie volunteeredatPrinceGeorgeRegionalHospitaland whennotraisinghertwoboys,sheworkedparttime intheservice/hospitalityindustrybeforereturningto fulltimeworkasthesecretaryatHeritage Elementary,wheresheworkedfrom1976untilshe retiredin2004.DuringMarie’stimeatHeritageshe metmanygoodfriends,students,andfamiliesthat shespokehighlyof.

Marielovedtodance,andthosewhoknewherwill rememberherandhusbandJimlightingupthedance floorateveryopportunity.

Duringherretirement,Marieenjoyedspendingtime withherfamilyandfriends.Sheenjoyedtimeinher gardensandtravelling,especiallytripstothe CaribbeanandMexico.

ThankyoutoDr.DeniseMcLeodandstaff,whowent aboveandbeyond.Also,ahugethankyoutothe amazingandthoughtfulstaffatthePrinceGeorge RotaryHospiceSocietyforthespecialcareprovided toMarieandherfamily.

AsperMarie’swishes,therewillbenoserviceheld. Inlieuofflowers,donationsinmemoryofMariemay bemadetothePrinceGeorgeRotaryHospice Society.

"Thosewhobringsunshinetothelivesofothers cannotkeepitfromthemselves"-J.M.Barrie

Thorn,RosalindM May29,1949-October6,2019

Rosalindpassedawaypeacefullyonthemorningof October6withherfamilyathersidefollowingabrief battlewithcancer.

ShewasborninPrinceGeorgeandspentherentire lifeinthecity,cultivatingmanyenduringfriendships. Rosalindwasapassionatememberofthe community,supportingindustry,politics,gardening, andvolunteerism.ThefamousannualCivicCenter SeniorsTeawasaspecialhighlightforher.Inher earlyyears,sheattendedCentralFortGeorge Elementary,KGVandPGSSS,graduatingin1967. Followinghighschool,sheattendedCNCandupon thecompletionofbusinesscourses,sheworkedfor thePrinceGeorgeandNorthernBCConstruction Association.Forthenext48years,sheworkedher waytothetopoftheorganizationuntilsheretiredin 2015asCEO.

RosalindmarriedBobThornin1969andtheyspenta happy,fulllifetogetheruntilBobpassedin2013. Theylovedtotravelandhadmanyadventures throughoutCanada,Europe,Asia,Mexico,theUS, England,andtheCaribbean.Itwasalwaysaspecial joyforRosalindtotraveltoEnglandandBarbados, thebirthcountriesofherparents.Rosalindhadmany closefriendshipswhichshecherished.Shealways lookedforwardtotheannualsummerget-awaywith "thegirls."

RosalindwaspredeceasedbyherhusbandBob,and herparentsRupertProverbsandMargaretGracey. Sheissurvivedbyherbrother,TrevorProverbs (Wendy);nephew,Geoffrey(Jen);great-nephew, William;andniece,Tracey(Sam).Sheisalso survivedbymanyniecesandnephewsintheThorn family,includingSusanMcCandless,whospent endlesshourswithBobandRosalindduringher childhood.

Inlieuofflowers,pleasemakeacontributiontothe BCCancerCentrefortheNorth,oracharityofyour choice.

ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldatTheRamada Hotel,444GeorgeStreet,PrinceGeorge,BC,on Saturday,October26,2019from2-5PM.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Established Franchise Tax Preparation Business Mackenzieservicing and McLeod Lake area for over 30 years.

Gross Revenues of $85,000 to $90,000 Annually and Potential to expand revenues in a growing economy.

Transition support available for the right buyer.

Serious Inquires Only

Office (250)997-9003 Home (250)997-5538 Cell (250)990-0152

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Established Franchise Photography Business

Serving Northern B.C for over 35 years

Gross Revenues of $150.000 plus annually from seasonal work

Lots of opportunity to expand the business.

Transition support available to the right buyer

Serious Enquiries Only

Office 250-596-9199 Cell 250-981-1472

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COURT BAILIFF SALE www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca

The Court Bailiff offers for sale by tender bid, interest in the following goods of the Judgment Debtor(s): SHANON MARIE GRACE YOUNG, pursuant to a Writ of Seizure and Sale, Registry No. ITA-13568-18.

2013 Continental Snowmobile Trailer VIN5NHUSKX29DT618174

Thunderjet V 182 ECO S/N AHQ10014A212, Yamaha 115 boat motor S/N F115LA, Yamaha 8 boat motor S/N F8LMHA, 2012 Gateway Boat Trailer VIN 1G9BB2118CL401181

Yardworks Snowblower S/N 1F276140173, Yardworks Lawnmower S/N 1D013B80223

Polaris ATV Sportsman 550 VIN 4XAZN5EAXCA510271, Polaris ATV 500 Sportsman S/N BP0LPP202BX1

2003 GMC Sierra VIN 1GTHK23173F20612, Champion Generator S/N 17OCT2001274

Item(s) can be viewed at our 2706 Jasper St. & Ottawa St and 3rd Ave compound(s) in Prince George. Go to www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca to view photographs. Closing date October 28, 2019. Highest or any other bid not necessarily accepted. Bidders are solely responsible for determining the make, model, year of manufacture, condition, quantities, sets and or usefulness of all items for tender. All items are sold on an “as is, where is” basis with no warranty given or implied. As vehicles have not been inspected, we are declaring that they may not be suitable for transportation and may not be compliant with the motor vehicle act. Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice. Terms of sale: Immediate payment in full by bank draft or cash only upon acceptance of successful bid. Call (250) 564-4900 for details.

North Central Bailiffs Ltd. Prince George Branch Court Bailiff Division Brandon Jacobsen / Court Bailiff

NO, 1956316

PRINCE GEORGE REGISTRY

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF BRITISH COLUMBIA BETWEEN:

CANADIAN IMPERIAL BANK OF COMMERCE PETITIONER

AND:

MARK LAWRENCE WHITELY

RENE KATHLEEN PRINCE RESPONDENTS

TO: RENE KATHLEEN PRINCE

TAKE NOTICE THAT on September 24, 2019 an Order was made for service on you of a Petition and supporting Affidavit issued from the Prince George Registry of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in proceeding number 1956316, by way of this advertisement,

In the proceeding, the following relief, inter alia, is sought by the Petitioner, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce; foreclosure or sale of property at 265 4th Ave East, Fort St. James, BC (the “Property”).

You must file a Response to Petition within the period required under the Supreme Court Civil Rules, failing which further proceedings, including Judgment, may be taken against you or the Property, without notice to you.

You may obtain, from the Prince George Registry, at J.O. Wilson Square, 250 George Street, Prince George, V2L 552, copies of the Petition, the supporting Affidavit, and the Order providing for service by this advertisement.

This advertisement is placed by Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, whose address for service is:

GOWLING WLG (CANADA) LLP

Lawyers P.O. Box 30

Bentall 5 2300 - 550 Burrard Street Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6C 2B5

Attention: Andrew Bury, QC

Draft - K1N Community Forest Data Package and Analysis Report

In accordance with the Forest Act, sec.43.3, the Lheidli T’enneh Community Forest is completing a new Timber Supply Review process. A Data Package, Management Plan and Analysis Report is available for viewing at Canfor, Prince George operation.

As per the Forest Act section 8 (1) the Chief Forester must determine the Allowable Annual Cut (AAC). The Data Package, Management Plan and Analysis Report will be used to assist in this determination.

The Data Package, Management Plan and Analysis Report is available for review from September 19, 2019 to November 19, 2019. Please call 250-567-8260 to arrange a time for review, or view the material online at https://www.canfor.com/responsibility/forest-management/plans under ‘Prince George Forest District’.

The deadline for receiving written comments is 4:30 pm, November 19, 2019.

Please address any written comments to: Terry Lazaruk, RPF Strategic Planning Coordinator, Canadian Forest Products Ltd. Woodlands, 1399 Bearhead Rd, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A2 Terry.Lazaruk@canfor.com

WEYERHAEUSER MAINTENANCE

Weyerhaeuserin Princeton,BC,isseeking toaddaMaintenance Supervisor/Reliability Leadertoitslumber manufacturingteam.

-Thesuccessfulcandidate willhaveprovenabilities orexceptionalaptitudein safetyleadership, reliability/maintenance practices,team development,and technicalcapabilitieswith experienceworkinginan industrialsetting.

-Wearelookingfor someonewhocanleadour maintenanceteamto world-classexecutionof standardmanufacturing andmaintenancepractices toimproveourprocesses andincreasereliability.

-Competentinallareasof maintainingstrong workingrelationships, maintenanceprocesses, andadministration,the successfulcandidatewill havetheabilitytogrow anddevelopasaleader withinthecompany.

APPLYONLINE: weyer.jobs/14152

General Employment

Look Who's Celebrating

MAYFAIRGASANDPLUMBINGINC

Wearelookingfortwoexperiencedjourneyman plumberstojoinourserviceteam;weofferacompetitive benefitspackage.Ifthisopportunityissomethingyou wouldbeinterestedin,pleaseemailyourresumetoBrett atoffice@mayfairinc.comoraccounts@mayfairinc.com.

YRB-WINTEROPERATOR/ LABOURER

Graphic Designer

The Prince George Citizen is your best source for local and regional news, sports, business, and events! As our graphic artist, you will provide creative leadership and direction to drive projects forward for The Prince George Citizen and our clients. We are looking for people who want to join an active group of engaged individuals who see our business as more than just publishing, but a part of the community. Come join us on this journey! Our values are the cornerstone of who we are – do they resonate with you?

Requirements: Experienced professional with knowledge of Print and Interactive Media and Design Software

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with project management on integration of verticals

• Schedule and track integrated print promotion campaigns across multiple print publications

• Assist in preparing creative briefs to ensure clear objectives are set on a project-to-project basis

• Maintain production tracking sheets and provide progress reports

• Coordinate production of print ads and perform QA with tight deadlines

H&RBLOCKCANADAINC.TAXPROFESSIONAL BECOMEATAXPROTODAY! EnrollinTaxAcademyandlearntoearnasatax professional.

OVERVIEW:Seewhatittakestobecomeaproattaxesat H&RBlock’sTaxAcademy.Thealwaysin-demandskills andknowledgeyou’lllearncanopendoorstorealjob opportunities.

CAREERBENEFITS:Trainingfromindustryleaders,the abilitytotackleanytaxsituation,theopportunitytowork asapart-timetaxprofessionalatH&RBlock,and flexibilityandindependence.

There’sneverbeenabettertimetoenroll!Classesstart thisSeptember. hrblock.50864@hrblock.caor www.hrblocktaxacademy.caorcall250562-6247

2x28.0 R0011750192

Casual Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses needed for in home 1:1 pediatric respite care for medically fragile children in your area. Offering union wages, paid training and full support.

For full details and to apply visit www.resourceability.ca R0011750192

YRBisseekingwinter operators/labourersforthe PGarea. Minimumrequirements includeavalidclass1or3 driver’slicensewithair,a cleandrivingrecord,and driver’sabstract. YRBisalsolookingfor candidatesavailableonan asandwhenneededbasis. Ifyouaresemi-retired, andlookingforoccasional winterwork,thismaybe theperfectopportunity. Pleasedropoffaresume at2424HartHwyoremail tobens@yrb.ca. bens@yrb.ca www.yrb.ca

• Facilitate client proofing and rescheduling of print ads, as required

• Assist with the creation of digital assets for multiple print and online verticals

• Development of sales materials

• Design for online advertising and promotions

•Develop and enhance materials for all Glacier digital properties

• Proactively identify, assess, and implement procedural improvements to align with Glacier Media’s goals and objectives

• Demonstrate a creative element based on project specific criteria

Education, Qualifications and Skills

• Graphic design for print and digital advertising

• Web advertising development

• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop & Illustrator) with web design an asset

• Familiar with Mac Operating System

Personal Qualities

• Detail orientation and organizational skills are key

• Superior time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail

• Ability to work within tight deadlines and handle a wide variety of responsibilities simultaneously

• Motivated self-starter with the ability to develop effective solutions and drive for results

• Adaptable multi-tasker that can quickly switch gears when necessary

• Ability to listen and respond objectively to new ideas

• Excellent communication and problem solving abilities

• Ability to work with a wide range of personalities and functions across the company

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbal, and in writing, isw essential

• A willingness to jump in where you are needed

Interested individuals should forward their resumes to scornell@pgcitizen.ca, attn.: Shawn Cornell by November 1, 2019 (No phone calls)

We thank all applicants, however we will be only contacting those shortlisted.

R0011750080

Career Opportunities

Applications

School District 57 (Prince George)

Applications are being accepted from qualified candidates for the following positions.

– 1 Fulltime Position ($33.41 per hour)

including

new construction and maintenance of school district buildings and structures.

The successful applicants will hold a valid certificate of qualification and experience as a journeyperson. The job position is responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of various electrical systems and equipment throughout the district’s facilities.

We offer a competing wage and benefits package including:

• Medical Service Plan

We offer a competing wage and benefits package including:

• Medical Service Plan

• Extended Health Care

• Group Life Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Group Life Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Pension Plan

• 40 hours per week – 8:00 am - 4:30 pm – Monday to Friday

To apply visit www.makeafuture.ca

The Process:

Interested candidates are required to submit an application package including:

• A cover letter highlighting your readiness for the position.

The Process: Interested candidates are required to submit an application package including:

• A cover letter highlighting your readiness for the position.

• A resume outlining your education background and experience.

• 3 professional references.

• A resume outlining your education background and experience.

• 3 professional references.

• Copies of relative certification and coursework.

Closing date for receipt of applications is October 23, 2019 at 4:00 pm.

Email submissions: HRecruit@sd57.bc.ca Fax: (250) 561-6837 Attention: Lori MacIver, Human Resources Officer Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Email submissions: HRecruit@sd57.bc.ca

Fax: (250) 561-6837 Attention: Lori MacIver, Human Resources Officer Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

R0011749530

•

The

School District 57 (Prince

School District 57 (Prince George)

Applications are being accepted from qualified candidates for the following positions.

The

Tires

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Staff Reporter chinzmann@pgcitizen.ca

There’s flings and floras, lilts and swords, high cuts, laddies and pas de basques all seen during the Central Interior Highland Dance Association premier fall competition Saturday at the Civic Centre.

Two of the dancers competing in the local event are from Excalibur Theatre Arts Company.

Victoria Bleecker, 16, and Alice Dobrinksy, 15, have been doing Highland dance for years.

During dance festivals Bleecker and Dobrinksy often partner for duets.

Dobrinsky started Highland dancing when she was four and does other dance as well, including being a member of Excalibur’s competitive troupe.

Dobrinsky was inspired to start Highland dance by her great grandma Jean who was Scottish.

“When I was little and we went to go visit her she’d always talk about Highland dance and about the kilts, the bagpipes and all that kind of stuff so I started doing it because of her,” she said.

The girls just returned from a trip to Scotland in the summer.

Highland competition goes Saturday MacMaster returns to Playhouse

Citizen staff

“I like meeting all the people at the competitions,” Dobrinsky said. “It’s really cool to get to hang out with everyone because everyone at Highland dance has at least one thing in common, so that’s fun.”

Dobrinsky, who is a student at College Heights Secondary, can jump really high so that aspect of Highland is her favourite.

For the local competition there is a solo competition that involves unique choreography that is not one of the typical dances but offers the dancers a chance to be creative and include elements of traditional Highland and national dances, jig, hornpipe or cake walk that allows for an individual’s interpretation. Dancers can even include limited influences of other forms of dance like jazz, tap, ballet or step to give some extra flare. Suggested costumes or Celtic or nautical styles.

Each of the girls will be wearing a dress that showcases their legwork during the dance and features a tartan waist piece that gets flowy at the back or a sash.

During the regular competition dancers are divided into categories including primary, beginner, novice, intermediate and premier.

As an intermediate competitor Dobrinsky will dance at separate times the fling,

For the first time in eight years Natalie MacMaster, known as Canada’s Queen of the Fiddle is offering up a new album called Sketches.

MacMaster will be promoting her new music during a tour that will find her on the Prince George Playhouse stage on Wednesday, Oct. 23.

MacMaster has sold more than 300,000 albums and has been nominated and won several awards including Grammy and Juno awards, East Coast Music Association awards, five Canadian Country Music Association Fiddle of the Year awards, three honourary doctorates and she is also a member of the Order of Canada for her contribution to the music industry.

For inspiration the Celtic music star has drawn from her own life experience.

“It is a moment during my 47th year of life, my 37th year of fiddling, my 16th year of marriage and my 13th year of parenting,” MacMaster said in press release. “It’ll be a moment of joyous appreciation inspired by years of parenting, marriage, friendships, music, and life.”

Sketches is a return to a solo sound resulting in a must-hear collection of traditional tunes and medleys mixed with new creations. The album sees MacMaster musically reflect on her life and career.

“I have something to say through my fiddle,” she said.

Tickets are at centralinteriortickets.com.

sword, Seann Triubhas, Highland laddie and jig on stage in groups of three or four competitors at a time who will each be judged on their individual skill level. Once all dancers have completed the fling, they will all be called upon to dance the sword and so on.

“Highland dance is really fun and really great exercise and it’s also really cool to watch, especially the older girls in premier (the highest ranking skilled Highland dancers at a competition),” Dobrinksy said. “When the premier girls are leaping in the air and doing their steps perfectly it looks incredible when you’re sitting in the audience. It’s really impressive what people can do.”

Moving up the ranks finds dancers competing to place first, second or third in their category in one dance, which earns them one stamp of six they need to move up to the next skill category.

Dobrinsky needs one more stamp and she will then be in premier.

Bleecker is a premier dancer who started ballet at the age of three. She started Highland at six years old.

Bleecker said the amount of opportunities Highland dance provides is something that really appeals to her.

“I have been places I would probably never go,” Bleecker said. “Due to Highland I have met some amazing people and made friendships all around the world and just getting to be in the competitions and setting your own goals is just fantastic.”

Bleecker likes how different Highland dance is from others and she likes the tradition of it, including the variety of costumes that comes with the style of dance.

When Bleecker does her unique choreography at Saturday’s competition she’ll be wearing a fluffy blue dress with a tartan sash that’s secured with a broach.

As a premier dancer more is expected from Bleecker, including more difficult elements and some dances are longer with more complicated steps to execute.

“I really like to master challenging steps,” Bleecker said. “When you finally get the step, it’s honestly one of the best things.”

The public is welcome to attend the Highland dance competition on Saturday which starts at 9 a.m. with primary, beginner and novice dancers taking to the stage followed by intermediate and premiers doing their choreography solos at 11 a.m. At 1:30 p.m. intermediate and premier will be put through their paces.

Natalie MacMaster plays Prince George for the first time in eight years on Oct. 23.

RAILWAY MUSEUM YOUR FINAL STOP THIS HALLOWEEN

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Staff Reporter chinzmann@pgcitizen.ca

At the Central B.C. Railway and Forestry Museum, visitors are invited to explore the train cars on site during the Final Stop Haunted Train tours on Saturday and again on Oct. 26.

These are walking tours to explore the cars and along the way there will be several surprises.

This is a new event for the Railway Museum and this scarier version recommended for adults and children 10 and older will go from 5 to 9 p.m. where the creepiness will be amped up to a frightening degree. Parents can use their discretion while deciding if the evening event is suitable for their children.

“We are offering guided tours every half an hour from 5 p.m. and the last one starts at 8:30 p.m.,” Nadine Fieber, event coordinator for the museum, said. The tours are on a first come first served basis and begin at Penny Station.

“Our curators and archivists will be the tour conductors and we’ll have some actors and some special effects along the way that eventually take you to the Final Stop,” she added.

Offered along with the Final Stop walking tour are rides on the Cottonwood Ghost Train that will take guests around the site as always.

“The mini-rail ride will also have some surprises along the way that people wouldn’t otherwise experience,” Fieber said. “So that is totally different from the guided walking tours.”

In the museum, there will be a display geared for Halloween and if people would like to eat their concession treats, including bone-dogs and witches brew, inside in a

The Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum is hosting their Final Stop event that’s family-friendly from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then geared for adults and children 10 years and older for the night-time spooky version from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday and again on Oct. 26. Admission to each event is by non-perishable food item

bistro setting they will be keeping company with a coven of witches gathered round their cauldron. So share the space if you dare.

“We pride ourselves in offering a unique experience because we’re the only ones with trains in town,” Fieber said. “We’re also proud to say that most of our decorations are do-ityourself projects, so they are self-made or a combination of store-bought and self-made so that means most of our creations nobody else will have.”

During the day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the site will be open for a family-friendly Halloween fun event suitable for all ages with many activities geared for children who are encouraged to wear their costumes. There will be a pumpkin patch, an opportunity to trick or treat and a selfie photo op where people are encouraged to post their picture on social media for a chance to win a ghostly pinata filled with treats, including a family pass to the museum, mini trail tickets

and sweets.

The Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum is located at 850 River Rd.

Admission is by donation of a nonperishable food item for St. Vincent de Paul Society’s food bank for the day or evening event held Saturday and Oct. 26. Concession is available for purchase and Cottonwood mini-rail rides are $3 per person. For more information call 250-563-7351 or email nfieber@pgrfm.bc.ca.

Actor excited about film debut

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Staff Reporter chinzmann@pgcitizen.ca

An actor who was born and raised in Prince George is taking a bad-guy role in the action drama movie Fronteras, which was recently released.

Cortez Chappell, who used to be a baseball player, found his way onto the stage after taking an improv class at university. He moved away from baseball entirely and went all in with performing and, while on the set of Fronteras, was working on his masters in film studies.

Chappell was raised on a farm just outside of Prince George and he said it taught him a lot about a strong work ethic.

“However hard you work is how far you’ll go,” Chappell said. “That’s what Prince George taught me.”

He spent three years at a California university and then went to Arizona State University when his parents bought a place down there.

“I wanted to be close to my mom and dad,” Chappell said. “That was my way to reconnect with them. I did that for a year and in that year I found acting. After the improv class I garnered a sense of confidence in myself for the first time outside of baseball that I’d ever had. I hadn’t really done anything else but baseball for the first 21 years of my life so it was new to be so confident in something right away and I decided to just run with that.”

In 2016, Chappell spent the summer studying acting at an academy in Hollywood.

“And then I just started to look for acting gigs,” Chappell said. “I got my first gig in a short film called Mind Over Matter, which was a student film that really propelled me to Fronteras.”

The full-length feature film is about a Mexican border patrol agent who lives in the U.S.

“And so he is on the U.S. side of the wall,” Chappell said. “He’s protecting U.S. citizens from potential illegal border crossings and drug trafficking and what not. It’s a character study of what it would be like to be pulled from both sides.”

Chappell’s character is Shane Estes who is the second from the lead antagonist of the film named Ivan Sloane, who is played by Steven Sean Garland, he said.

“He is absolutely phenomenal in the film,” Chappell said. “He’s an even more phenomenal person. He and I have grown really close since filming since we housed together in

Tucsan, Arizona. That was five weeks of us living together after having just met, so we got pretty close, pretty fast. That friendship has meant a lot to me. I was studying for my masters while filming the movie and Steve was a big voice in my ear trying to motivate me every day and keep me focused on that.”

Chappell said when making a movie so topical in the current socio-political culture as immigration is, especially in the U.S., it’s good to address it with the seriousness the subject requires but then during the off time, it’s important to keep things light and loose.

As for his future, he’s looking for more acting opportunities but as long as he can keep working in the film industry, he said he’ll be happy.

The movie is available on select cable providers like Comcast, Directv and Verizon, as well on digital platforms like iTunes, Amazon Video and Google Play.

For more information about the film visit the Fronteras Facebook page.

This $10 pinot grigio will keep you smiling sip after sip

DAVE MCINTYRE

The Washington Post

Some of the best wine finds are from small distributors and importers. They often represent small family wineries or cooperatives of family farms that are upping their game and producing delicious bottles at great value prices. Here are five from two small compa nies specializing in Italian wines. We have two pinot grigios, an exciting value at $10 and a beautiful, mineral example that’s worth a splurge; a sur prising fizzy red ideal for pizza; and a savory red that was popular in Roman times. And, to round things out, a bottle of prosecco.

Trebbiano 2018

Two and a half stars

Petrucco Pinot Grigio 2018

Three stars

Friuli Colli Orientali, Italy, $27

GREAT VALUE

Impero Collection Premium Pinot Grigio

In northern Italy, pinot grigio gets serious. This wine from Friuli, in the mountains of northeastern Italy is mineral and focused with a ripe apricot and pear flavours and a laser

focus. A little time in your glass will enhance the fruit flavours; don’t drink this too cold. The price has probably made some retailers shy away from it, but this is worth the money.

De’Notari Cesanese 2017

Two and a half stars

Italy has an amazing array of grape varieties, many of which are rarely, if ever, grown elsewhere. Cesanese hails primarily from Lazio, around Rome, and was popular in Roman times, according to Ian D’Agata in his encyclopedic work, Native Wine Grapes of Italy. This example from De’Notari is rich and sophisticated, with plum and cherry, accented by sage and thyme. Delicious. ABV: 13 percent.

Cabert Extra Dry Prosecco NV

Three stars

Italy, $16

Most proseccos add a welcome sparkle to any occasion. This one adds bright red currant flavours and a long finish. Stock up for your everyday or holiday celebrations. ABV: 11 percent.

Cantine Federiciane Gragnano 2018

Two and a half stars

Penisola Sorrentina, Italy, $20

Be careful: This is a fizzy red wine and the cork will come out with a pop. Gragnano wine is from the Sorrento Peninsula, near Naples, and popular with Neapolitan pizza. The closest comparison is Lambrusco, from northern Italy. Chill and pair it with pizza, charcuterie, barbecue, pizza and did I mention pizza? Anything involving cured or smoked pork will let this wine shine. ABV: 10.5 percent.

WASHINGTON POST PHOTO

From left, Petrucco Pinot Grigio 2018, Cabert Extra Dry Prosecco NV, Impero Collection Premium Pinot Grigio Trebbiano 2018, Cantine Federiciane Gragnano 2018, and De’Notari Cesanese 2017.

Around town

FIDDLE DANCE

MIKE VIGANO LIVE

MALASPINA FALL FAIR

BLUE ROSE GALA

Saturday at 5:30 p.m. at the Kinsmen Community Centre, 777 Kinsmen Pl., there is a fundraiser for Project Friendship Society featuring Elvis Elite, Steve Elliott. There is a roast beef buffet dinner, bar, silent and cake auction, 50/50, door prize is a $500 Via Rail travel voucher. Tickets are $45 each at Books & Co and Studio 2880. Come celebrate Project Friendship Society and their 30th year of promoting community inclusion. Proceeds will go to SD 57 bursaries for graduating students.

CRAFT FAIR

Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hart Pioneer Centre, 6986 Hart Highway. There will a great selection of crafts and unique gifts just in time for Christmas shopping. Delicious home baking will be available to enjoy. Vendor tables are $10 each. For more information contact 250-962-6712.

GO ENG GIRL

Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at UNBC, Bentley Centre, 3333 University Way, this event will help inspire the next generation of women in engineering. Go ENG Girl is a free event for Grade 7 to 10 girls and their parents

or guardians to learn why an increasing number of females are choosing engineering as their path to an exciting career. For more information and to register, visit us at unbc.ca/ goenggirl, call 250-960-6803

HALLOWEEN BASH

Saturday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St., there is a Halloween Bash with Famous Monsters, Palmerston & The Razones. This is a 19+ licenced event. Please plan a safe ride home. $10 cover charge at the door. For more information visit the Facebook page or email info@ominecaartscentre.com.

WINTER CLUB FUNDRAISER

Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at the Hart Community Centre, 4900 Austin Road W., the Hart Highlands Winter Club is hosting its fall fundraising dinner and dance. Guest speak is Mike Shawski. There is a silent auction and live auction with help from many great local businesses

Tickets are $60 for adults, $30 for children at the Hart Ski Hill. For more information email manager@hartskihill.com

FINAL STOP

This Saturday and October 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum, 850 River Rd., wear costumes to visit the railway museum for a frightfully spooky yet family-friendly Halloween scare. Board the Cottonwood Ghost-Train, indulge in Bone-Dogs and Witches’ Brew, hang around for a spell and dare to enter the sleeper cars. Admission and broom parking is by donation of a nonperishable food item donated to St. Vincent de Paul’s food bank.

Contact: 250-563-7351 | nfieber@pgrfm. bc.ca

14TH ANNUAL HEALTHIER YOU EXPO

Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Prince George Civic Centre, 808 Canada Games Way, explore the latest and greatest in health, wellness and personal growth at this family event. Admission is free. There is prizes, speakers and lots of information booths. For more information visit their Facebook page.

LAND LINKING WORKSHOP

Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. at NUSC event space, 3333 University Way, Central & Northern B.C. land matching program hosts the Young Agrarians Land Linking workshop that talks about land access. To register visit youngagrarians.org/pglandlink. For questions about this event or about the B.C. Land Matching Program reach out to the land matcher Jolene Swain at jolene@youngagrarians.org.

Youth Needlecraft

Every Tuesday until Dec. 3 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Bob Harkins Branch, Prince George Public Library, 888 Canada Games Way, there is Tens to Teens Needlecraft. Those 10 to 18 years old can join Alise to learn the basics of knitting and crochet. Yarn, needles, and hooks will be provided. Call 250-563-9251 ext. 108 to register.

Adult Band

Every Monday until June 29, 2020 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 483 Gillett St., the Alban Classical New Horizons Adult Band meets. For more information visit www. albanclassical.org. Contact: 250-563-4693 | admin@albanclassical.org

PJ STORYTIME

Every Monday until Dec. 9 from 6 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bob Harkins Branch, Prince George Public Library, 888 Canada Games Way, bring the little ones dressed in their PJs for stories,

rhymes, and songs before bedtime. Suitable for children up to five years old. Contact: 2505639251 | adhanjal@pgpl.ca

HEARTBEAT MEETINGS

On the third Monday of the month at the Foundry, 1148 Seventh Ave., at 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. for youth between 12 and 24 and for adults at 6:45 to 8 p.m., there is a peer support group meeting offering empathy, encouragement and direction for those who have lost a loved one by suicide. If the door is locked, please knock. For more information contact Sandra Galletti at galletti@telus.net or call 250-961-9330.

MENTAL HEALTH MEETINGS

The first and third Wednesday of every month at 11:15 a.m. at 1139 Sixth Ave., the Prince George Mental Health Consumer Council welcomes the public to regular meetings. For more information call Sherry at 250-562-1839.

CANTATA SINGERS

Every Wednesday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at , St. Michael & All Angels Anglican Church, 1505 Fifth Ave., the Prince George Cantata Singers, a group of about 60 voices (ranging in age from 17 on up), come together each week to sing in harmony for musical performance. The choir performs about two to four major concerts per year, divided into two sessions from Sept. to Dec. and Jan. to June. Event fee is $90 per session.

DJ Dance Nights

Thursdays until Dec. 26 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St., Thursday DJ Dance Nights are presented to get a body grooving and keep spirits and energies high. There are licenced and dry DJ nights each month featuring local, regional and touring DJs. Entry is by suggested donation of between $5 and $20, but no one is turned away due to lack of funds. For details visit www.ominecaartscentre.com. Contact: 250-552-0826 | info@ominecaartscentre.com

MODERN SEXUALITY BOOK CLUB

Wednesday, Oct. 30 and Nov. 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Trench Brewing, 399 Second Ave., the frustrating silent stigma is starting to fade, but now we’re left with an information gap. What does sexuality look like in 2019? Join Darcie and Kayli for this meetup. Borrow titles from the library or purchase from Books & Co. with a discount. To register and for titles call Prince George Public Library at 250-563-9251 ext. 141 or Books & Company at 250-5636637. Contact: 250-563-9251 | adhanjal@ pgpl.ca

HANDOUT PHOTO

During the Final Stop Haunted Train tours held Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Central B.C. Railway and Forestry Museum, visitors are invited to explore the train cars on site.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 13 TO 19, 2019

ThE luCKiEsT signs This WEEK: CanCer, Leo and Virgo

ARIES

You’ll negotiate a loan to settle a difficult financial situation or make a big purchase that will improve your quality of life. In your love life, an affectionate exchange will be more than welcome.

TAURUS

In your love life, you may need to make a change. But don’t just pull the plug on your relationship. Instead, be open to the thoughts and perspectives of others. Pay attention to small de tails at work.

GEMINI

Make sure to get enough sleep this week. If you don’t, you’ll have a hard time concentrating and your health could suffer. You’ll be especially creative this week and may create a masterpiece.

CANCER

Your active social life could have an impact on your budget. A fa mily obligation will bring you back to reality. You’ll discover a new artform that will completely enchant you.

LEO

You’ll find yourself carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. At home, trust the other members of your family to help with the housework. You’ll be the force that brings people together and your smile will be enough to lighten the atmosphere.

VIRGO

Before launching yourself into a new project, it’s important to gat her all the pertinent information. Even if a trip isn’t in your budget, it’ll be hard to resist an invitation from a loved one.

LIBRA

Certain changes are necessary if you want to grow in your career. To that end, you may need to forge your own path or take some classes to land a more interesting job. Change is good.

SCORPIO

You’ll try to please everyone this week. Your wardrobe and how you present yourself will have an impact on your career development. You’ll yearn to treat yourself and your friends will be by your side to encourage you.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll receive some excellent news regarding your health. You’ll finally find a treatment or medication that works and will improve your quality of life. At work, you’ll find yourself dealing with all sorts of emergencies.

CAPRICORN

Your powers of seduction are stronger than ever, and you’ll have more than a few interested admirers. At work, you’ll use your people skills to bring together a big crowd. This achievement will double your company’s sales, to your boss’ delight.

AQUARIUS

At work, you’ll realize that you’re a valuable and irreplaceable asset. You’ll start to climb the ladder and attain the future you desire. In your love life, the magnitude of your actions corresponds with the depth of your feelings.

PISCES

You’ll succeed in finding pleasurable moments in otherwise long days. You’ll burn off extra energy by making impassioned speeches to your loved ones. You’ll have no shortage of brilliant ideas this week.

Retorque the word of the season

Driving the open highway is a visual masterpiece at this latitude. Around every bend the landscape offers up the magnificence of natural history. The scene is the result of what once was glacier that gave way to pressure. Warming over centuries created vast waters that have reduced to rivers that cut and lakes that spread. With each passing season, colours bloom and then contrast, glistening and fading in the light, and then winter is here again.

Of course, there is ever present danger driving northern highways. Limited visibility at night, wildlife and sharing the road with transport trucks are all frightening to navigate. Beyond those, there is one thing that is feared even more, that separates northerners from the rest: snow.

When it comes to winter driving, one must be prepared. Good winter tires are critical, and just as important is to retorque. Retorque – what a word, what an important detail.

While driving from Mackenzie to Prince George this past spring, I was in a hurry to get home to prepare for an event the following night, and because a downtown tenant had called to say they had been broken into for the umpteenth time and they wanted to look at video surveillance footage.

There is a distinctive rhythmic sound that a tire makes when it is about to dislodge from a vehicle. At first, I blamed the pavement for the strange sound. As I slowed down on my approach to McLeod Lake, it dawned on me that it must be a flat. Before I could pull over, suddenly there was a loud bang. In what felt like slow motion my left rear tire

LINDA REMPEL

shot off, bounced, and rose thirty feet in the air, landing in a yard across the highway. With that, on my remaining three wheels, my vehicle gently drifted to a stop directly in front of the McLeod Lake store.

This was a shocking event. I tried to call for help but had no cell service. The kind people in the McLeod Lake Store calmed me down and convinced me that I was fine. By the time the tow truck arrived two hours later, three people had stopped to help, and one concerned gentleman retrieved the tire.

The tow truck driver proclaimed that we have to go back past Mackenzie because someone else had lost a tire too and was waiting for help.

“Wrong direction,” I protested. He simply explained that it was my only option of getting home that night.I accepted my fate and the fun began immediately, driving over 80 km north to the outskirts of Chetwynd with three strangers, listening to tow truck adventures, talking politics and having some laughs. When I finally made it home safe and sound well after midnight, I was so relieved; maybe lucky to be alive. I was very fortunate in this situation and I’m so very grateful for the kindness of strangers. Learn from my mistake and very good fortune: never, ever forget to retorque after changing your tires.

Plastic pellets a problem, group says

SUSAN LAZARUK

Postmedia

Hundreds of thousands of tiny plastic pellets used to make bags, bottles and other plastic items are being washed into B.C. waterways and the province isn’t doing enough to stop it, says a group dedicated to cleaning up beaches.

Surfrider Canada says it has evidence pellets are being spilled at manufacturing plants and during transport and are making their way into the water at dozens of locations it monitors around B.C.

The U.S.-based international environmental group held a news conference on Annacis Island near a water channel, and David Boudinot of its Vancouver Island chapter knelt on the riverbank to show how the round pellets, which are smaller than a lentil, can be easily found in the grass.

He held a small jam jar full of the pellets, collected last month as far away as Nigei Island, north of Port Hardy.

Volunteers have collected pellets from 90 locations, in the Fraser River and on shores around Metro Vancouver, from the San Juan and Gulf islands, around Vancouver Island and along the Sunshine Coast, he said.

He said his group investigated manufacturing

and transport sites.

“You go to where they’re used and there is spillage. If there’s a spill on the parking lot, once it rains, it goes down there,” he said, pointing to the water while a group of mallards paddled by. “You go look at their storm drains and you see all the pellets.”

He said companies need to clean up its spills or face fines.

“It’s the responsibility of the province of B.C. to enforce environmental protection laws and to improve environmental protection laws,” said Boudinot. “There are no regulations specifically for plastic pellets.”

He said, “We’ve shared our evidence of the problem with the province” and was told the province is holding public consultation on plastic pollution.

But Boudinot said it’s an industry, not a consumer problem, and “I don’t think we’ll be able to recycle our way our of plastic pellet pollution.”

B.C.’s Environment Ministry didn’t make anyone available to comment but said in an email “Discharge of pollution to the environment is prohibited under the environmental management act.”

Studio Fair 2019

November 1 - 3, 2019

F riday - 10 am - 8 pm Saturday - 10 am - 6 pm Sunday - 10 am - 4 pm

Color this picture.

mokey Bear first appeared as a symbol of wildfire prevention in 1944. This year marks the 75th Birthday of this forest hero.

In the spring of 1950, winds were pushing a wildfire through a forest in the Capitan Mountains of New Mexico. Firefighters from far and wide rushed to put the fire out.

A little bear cub climbed a tree to escape the flames burning on the ground. He was only five pounds and he was very scared.

badly burned. They couldn’t find his mother. The little bear cub was sent to an animal doctor to be treated and bandaged.

A forest service ranger named Ranger Ray cared for the cub.

Firefighters found the cub still alive, but his paws and hind legs were

Use the water bucket to put out this camp re.

The United States Forest Service received so many letters from children for Smokey that he needed to have his own: (Circle every other letter) How many trees can you nd on this page?

Ray’s 4-year-old daughter played with the bear and cheered him up.

The little bear was named Smokey and moved to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. and he became the living symbol of Smokey Bear.

Remember the Rules

Look through the newspaper for the words to write out Smokey’s five rules. Cut out the words and glue them to a blank piece of paper to help you remember. Post the rules where others can see them. Standards Link:

Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

Replace the missing words in this article.

In 1952, a _______ was written about Smokey Bear. The songwriters, Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins, were having __________ making Smokey Bear fit with the beat of the song. They added the word, ‘the’ between Smokey and Bear to make the ______ work.

The song was so popular, that even today many people _________ the famous character’s name is “Smokey the Bear.” But it is ____________ just Smokey Bear

BreastfeedingFriendly Spaces: Shifting attitudes about breastfeeding

Did you know that in BC there are laws that protect women’s right to breastfeed in public? To raise awareness of this right, Northern Health has made available a window decal that states: “We welcome you to breastfeed any time, anywhere.” Many businesses and organizations have posted the decal on their doors and windows. They can be ordered on the BreastfeedingFriendly Spaces page: (northernhealth.ca/healthinformation/pregnancy-and-baby/breastfeedingfriendly-spaces)

The impact of the decal

A decal is a small thing, but it can support important conversations. I was curious to know what impact the decal had on the clients and staff of participating businesses and organizations. To learn more, we’d have to ask! In March 2019, I had the pleasure of supporting three Health Promotions students from the University of Northern British Columbia to do just that. Sonja Bork, Fatemeh Mohammadnejad, and Molly Brawdy interviewed staff from 10 Northern BC businesses and organizations that display the decal. Overall, they learned that the decal has been well received. They described positive feedback from staff and regular visits from breastfeeding mothers. This is great!

In this project, Sonja, Fatemeh, and Molly also learned a lot. At the end of our time together, they each shared their thoughts with me. From their comments, it is clear that this project will have a lasting impact on how they view promoting breastfeeding.

Learning about biases

Molly found that this project was a chance for her to become aware of her own views on breastfeeding:

“Before, I had not considered my own attitudes towards breastfeeding in public. Through this project, I became aware that I had internalized the idea that mothers should breastfeed in private and cover up when doing so in social settings. While I was supportive of breastfeeding in general, I had not embraced the “any time, anywhere” mindset.”

Legal rights and public support

Fatemeh, an international student, noted tensions between what is legally supported in Canada and public views of breastfeeding:

“Before coming to Canada, I had not considered breastfeeding in public places, as this is not a right in my country (Iran). Through this project, I have

Healthy Living

By Lise Luppens, Registered Dietitian, Northern Health

learned that in Canada breastfeeding is not a legal problem, as there are laws that protect this right. However, there is still a lack of empathy, respect, and understanding in some organizations and in society in general. There exists some level of rejection of mothers who breastfeed in public spaces.”

Raising awareness

Because some people may not be aware of women’s right to breastfeed, Fatemeh saw value in the breastfeeding decals:

“This initiative is an opportunity to promote the right of mothers to breastfeed in any space, without feeling uncomfortable and stressed. By displaying a decal, organizations can help to raise awareness and educate clients about the importance of breastfeeding for mothers and infants.”

Supporting change

Sonja felt that the decal is a useful health promotion initiative and that the students’ role in this project was itself an important catalyst for change:

“I have found this project to be both useful for our own learning and for Northern Health. Apart from our tasks in this project, we also convey the idea of breastfeeding-friendly spaces to our peers, friends, and families, thereby … serving as mediators in this promotional process.”

Shifting attitudes

Finally, through this project, Molly described a major shift in her own attitude about breastfeeding:

“As I heard participants’ views and thought about the initiative in general, my ideas of what it means to support and promote breastfeeding shifted. Now, when I see a woman breastfeeding in public (whether covered or not) I will not see it as awkward or uncomfortable. Instead, I see an example of a woman confidently engaging in a normal behaviour for the benefit of both herself and her child.”

The reflections of these three thoughtful students show the value of supporting conversations about breastfeeding. Thank you, Sonja, Fatemeh, and Molly, for your great work, and good luck in your future health promotion activities! Do you want a breastfeeding decal for your business or organization? Submit your request today!

ThisNorthern Table: Gardening at Gateway

By Erin Branco, Dietitian, Northern Health

summer, my two-year-old son excitedly watched the raspberry bush in our backyard grow as he waited for the berries to turn red. When he tasted our first raspberry, his eyes widened, he jumped up and down, and couldn’t wait to have another! Watching him, I felt a sense of satisfaction, pride, and joy because he’s getting to experience growing and harvesting his own food right in his backyard. Do you know the feeling I’m talking about? The feeling of picking that first berry of the season and enjoying its sweet and tangy taste?

Now, imagine losing that feeling – not being able to take the fresh raspberries from the bush you’ve harvested for years, not being able to enjoy the crisp texture of a freshly picked carrot, or not feeling the satisfaction and joy of growing food for your family.

A hydroponics tower is located in a corner. It has several young plants growing in it.

Many residents living in long-term care don’t get to experience these feelings anymore, and may not be able to participate in activities they used to love and found meaning in, like gardening. Backyard gardening or living on a rural agricultural property in Northern BC, and the experience of gardening and growing food for sustenance and pleasure, is a meaningful activity that some people greatly miss. Losing this connection to nature can affect their mental wellbeing. As a dietitian who loves the connection to food, this breaks my heart. At

Gateway Lodge (Gateway) in Prince George, we’re helping create an environment where residents can experience growing, preparing, and eating homegrown fruit and vegetables again.

A team of people from the University of Northern BC (UNBC), BC Cancer, and Northern Health received a seed grant to grow vegetables and other edible produce in raised garden beds and a hydroponics tower at Gateway. With the help of residents, our team co-designed a gardening program that includes a shared gardening space between staff and residents, gardening time, and meaningful food and nutrition activities that support the nutritional and mental wellness of residents.

A green smoothie, made from veggies from Gateway’s garden and sweetened with storebought fruit, was a favourite of residents! One activity that residents loved was making green smoothies from our harvest. We created delicious smoothies with greens from our gardens and added store-bought fruit to sweeten them up and make a vibrant, refreshing green drink. Residents’ favourite recipe was a combination of greens (kale, Swiss chard, lettuce, spinach), banana, pineapple, vanilla almond milk, and ground flax seed – yum!

I’m thrilled with the opportunity to engage residents in meaningful and nourishing activities through gardening, and we hope to build on the success of 2019 for our next growing year!

The hydroponics tower turns “growing season” into a year-round event.

A green smoothie, made from veggies from Gateway’s garden and sweetened with store-bought fruit, was a favourite of residents!

Monkeying around Gibraltar

STEVE MACNAULL Kelowna Daily Courier

We affectionately name him Gib.

Admittedly, it’s not a very original moniker for an adorable baby monkey on the little peninsula of Gibraltar.

After all, Gib is the nickname of this seven-square-kilometre chunk of rock in the Mediterranean, which is an overseas territory of the U.K. dangling from the southernmost tip of Spain.

And, by default, unimaginative tourists automatically end up calling Gibraltar’s famous Barbary apes, young and old, Gib. However, in this case, tiny Gib is the cutest and most deserving of the name.

As our tour group strolls along the top of the Rock of Gibraltar to take in the views, Gib hops on his mom’s back for a ride over to see us.

He dismounts into his mom’s embrace to give us all a melt-your-heart, big-eyed stare.

To prove he can do things on his own, Gib wanders off to grab a stick and then bolts back to mom.

Our tour group of 20, by this time, has taken hundreds of photos and cooed just as many times.

While Gib is the star of this encounter, the 250 other Barbary apes, which are really tailless macaques monkeys brought over from Morocco, are considered Gibraltar’s most famous residents and biggest tourist attraction.

The primates roam in seven packs on the upper elevation of the peninsula where tourist frequent to soak in the vistas and explore St. Michael’s Cave, a subterranean wonder of natural stalactites and stalagmites and manmade amphitheatre and lighting show.

While wild, the monkeys are accustomed to people.

You’re asked not of feed them, because they will aggressively snatch food and anything else they can get their nimble little hands on, from sunglasses and purses to jewelery and iPhones.

Gibraltar is the first stop on the seven-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the elegant, 947-foot-long, 3,573-passenger Emerald Princess.

Gibraltar isn’t a common stop on Med cruises, so many passengers are excited to step foot on The Rock, as it’s colloquially known, for the gargantuan white limestone formation that juts out of the Strait of Gibraltar.

This little peninsula, with a population of 30,000, also has a fascinating history and geography.

For a millennia, different nations have fought for control of this strategic peninsula located between Europe and Africa where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet in the narrow strait between Spain and Morocco.

The British took Gibraltar from the Spanish in 1704 and still have it today as an overseas territory.

Proud to be British, Gibraltar is also serious about its own sovereignty.

Thus said, the diminutive peninsula is a bit of Jolly Olde England in the Mediterranean.

In town, palm-treed Casemates Square leads to a British-style high street chocka-block with U.K. brand stores Marks and Spencer, Debenhams, Topshop, Next and Dorothy Perkins.

Our sustenance stops also reflect Britannia, with tea and scones with jam and clotted cream at The Cornish Bakery and fish and chips with Bass ale at All’s Well Pub.

A port with only one per cent corporate tax and no sales tax, Gibraltar has become an international shipping and banking centre and the world headquarters for many online gambling companies.

From Gib, the Emerald Princess also called on Marseille, France (for Provence), Genoa, Italy (for Portofino), Livorno, Italy (for Pisa and Florence) and finished in Rome.

The cruise started in Barcelona.

The Emerald Princess remains in the Med through November, then will sail across the Atlantic to ply the Caribbean.

Air Canada flies non-stop between Toronto and Montreal and Barcelona and Rome for easy access for Canadian travellers.

Check out Princess.com and AirCanada. com.

The writer was a guest of Princess Cruises, which neither read nor approved this article before publication.

The view of the city and the Emerald Princes in port as seen from the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, bottom left, Gib, the baby monkey charms tourists, above, and visitors take in the beauty of St. Michael’s Cave, below.

How to enhance the value of a house with art

AUDREY HOFFER

Special to The Washington Post

Art helps make a sale.

Everyone has an opinion about what clinched the deal.

For Christine Neptune, a collector and co-owner of Gallery Neptune & Brown, “it was the art that sold the apartment. Other than that my tiny New York studio was a small white box. The interior came alive because of the art.”

“Art creates the impression of a more valuable home. If you think about a beautifully designed home with strong architecture, you can appreciate it for what it is, but without art it’s not finished. It’s missing an important component. Art rounds out the impression of living there,” said Theo Adamstein, a sales associate with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.

Art can enhance the value of the house but a real estate agent can’t pinpoint a number or percentage.

“It doesn’t work like that,” Adamstein said. “You can’t say by how much because that implies there’s a formula and if you spend a certain amount then the house goes up a certain amount. Art embellishes a home, it adds to a home’s character, it adds color and rhythm and makes it more interesting than it may otherwise be, and that absolutely adds value.”

Chris and Beverly With live in a two-floor District of Columbia condominium packed with works on paper. Hundreds of framed pictures plus sculptures cover every square inch of wall space.

“No space goes untouched. The guest bathroom is our photography gallery,” Beverly With said. A print hangs on the small area below the wall cutout between the kitchen and dining room inches above the dining room floor. The walls lining two staircases - one from the entry door to the main living area and a second from the living room up to the bedrooms - are covered chock-a-block.

“We don’t want empty space so there’s no place we don’t put art. If you want to find a spot, you will. In the kitchen or bathroom or wherever. Nature abhors a vacuum,” Chris With said.

Paula Amt, owner of Framesmith DC and a collector, lives in a 400-square-foot space. “My art is hung floor to ceiling. I minimize the space between works to fit in another piece because I want to see what I can see,” she said.

“It doesn’t matter if your home is large or small, if you rent or own. Don’t stop collecting because you think you don’t have any more room. Just make the spaces between the pieces smaller,” she said.

Anthony Gyepi-Garbrah and Desirée Venn Frederic’s home in Northeast Washington’s Trinidad neighborhood is distinguished by dozens of paintings and prints hanging salon-style on the walls and doors, sculptures lining the floors, and antique furnishings all around.

“Art in our home makes a place for us and provides benefits. It enhances our design

perspective, it helps bring our attention to certain parts of the apartment, it provides accents, invokes emotion and adds clarity,” Gyepi-Garbrah said.

Timothy Johnson is a local artist with a show, “Fables of Decapitation: I knew I would die long ago,” at Touchstone Gallery through Oct. 27. His home and art studio are one and they’re small. Paintings adorn the apartment walls and a nine-foot-long ledge on the wall next to his easel is dedicated to his work in progress. “I prop up the paintings I’m working on so I can see them better and make changes,” he said.

Robert Brown, the other co-owner of Gal-

lery Neptune & Brown and a collector, recommends collecting for joy, not investment.

“Buy pieces you can’t live without. Something that gives you pleasure and a thrill every time you look at it,” he said.

You and your partner’s tastes may differ but that shouldn’t create tension, he said. Instead celebrate and broaden your assemblage with works that appeal to both of you.

“Buying art isn’t a competition,” he added.

“When you start buying, accept that your taste will evolve and you may not like a piece in 10 years. When that time comes, sell or give it away,” Chris With said.

“Buy what you love. That’s the most impor-

tant thing. Then the art will move around all your real estate,” Neptune said.

Go to galleries and museums around town. Ask questions and ask to see work not in view. Galleries have rooms in the back with files holding many pieces. Owners will work with your budget and show you art in a range of prices. You can buy on credit and often on installment. Sometimes you can take a piece home “on approval” to see how you like it.

“Don’t be embarrassed or shy. That’s why we’re here,” Brown said. “It’s our job to talk about art in a way that makes you feel comfortable and teaches you.”

“Some people approach art as decoration as opposed to collecting. That’s a shortterm solution. Collecting art is long term. It doesn’t make sense to waste your money on the short term. Take a little longer to decide what you love and to save money to buy it,” he said.

“People will come in and tell us they have a spot in mind. ‘I have a spot behind my couch,’ they say. A year later, they move or get a new couch. Especially in Washington because moving is common. Instead think about what you love so that when you move you want to take it along,” Neptune said.

“Many people fill their living spaces with sentimental mementos rather than fine art,” Larry Kirkland, an artist and collector, said. Sentimental can be fine, but it can also mean insipid prints, anodyne landscapes, calendar still lifes and pastoral photos.

“If you really are an art collector some of your art may bring up a memory but you buy a piece because it challenges you emotionally and intellectually,” he said.

No room should be omitted from your art display, but there’s no map to show where to hang. It’s intuitive and what looks right to your eye.

“Yet placement has to be attractive. It has to have a sense of proportion. You can’t put it up higgledy-piggledy,” Chris With said.

Wall color shouldn’t fade into the art. “You want the art work to stand out, not blend into the background,” Brown said.

If it doesn’t look good, move it. “We know people who agonize. They say, ‘I could never hang art myself.’ They worry about putting a hole in the wall. It’s not a big deal to hammer a picture-hook hanger in the wall. Holes are easy to repair or you can hire a handyman,” Chris With said.

“People are especially worried about making that first hole. Get over it. Hang the piece up. It’s just a wall,” Amt said. “If you’re truly not allowed to make holes in the wall, there are ways to get around that with hanging systems that lay against the wall.”

Art is personal. “For me, it’s not just an investment in the artist or my collection. It is me being a custodian to a part of history. If everything goes well, that artifact will outlive me in perpetuity,” Gyepi-Garbrah said. Adamstein said: “Hanging art on your walls is the most direct route to transforming a house into a home. It offers prospective buyers an immediate sense of homeyness.”

WASHINGTON POST PHOTO BY BILL O’LEARY

Chris and Beverly With have packed their District of Columbia condominium with framed items. WASHINGTON

The bedroom art of Chris and Beverly With of the District of Columbia.

Finding your business’s sweet spot

Ilike picking berries in the summer. It’s one of those memories that lasts into the fall and winter much like the frozen berries that are hidden in the freezer for a tasty bit of summer on a cold day. I am not sure if I was always a good berry picker but I do remember picking berries as a child and filling my belly as well as my bucket. As a teenager, I spent a few days picking berries for pay and outlasted my brothers who seemed to tire of picking once their stomachs were full.

Berry picking is a lot like business. You need to be mentally prepared to stick it out despite the environment. You must have the right tools if you are going to be successful, (typically just a bucket, but I have recently seen some fancy new fandangle berry picking devices). You have to work through the thorns, avoid the bears, and pick where others aren’t. You need to be ready to work when you find the sweet spots.

Often, I see businesses that are like my brothers were. They fill up on the fruit of their labors, and then proceed to lay in the sun and relax. If their belly is full, they are content enough to stop looking for more customers. They tend to be satisfied that they can pay their weekly or monthly bills, and

BUSINESS COACH DAVE FULLER

rest for a while. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that model of business if it works for you. The problem can be, however, that if we stop working when we feel full, we don’t put aside anything for the future. Businesses, like bears, need to fatten up when the feeding is good in preparation for those winter-like off seasons where we need to tighten our belts.

Finding the sweet spot for your business is not always easy. When berry picking, one of the best things I learned from my mother was to look where others don’t. I like to call this the sweet spot because there are often so many berries that picking becomes easy and my bucket fills quickly. I look high where others can’t reach, and I look low and lift the branches to find the hidden berries that others didn’t see because they were so fixated on the berries right out front.

When we have a business, we need to look for customers and opportunities where our competition has missed because they were

too fixated on the business right in front of them. While this area out front is an area of opportunity that represents easy picking, there are often many pickers trying to fill their buckets with this limited nourishment. When we can pull back the bushes and see the bounty hidden there, it’s often so much easier to fill our business buckets.

Recently, I was working with a business that had been wholesaling their products because they thought that this was the best way to fill their buckets. They liked the fact that each customer in this area seemed to buy a significantly larger amount than their retail customers. They couldn’t quite figure out why they were so busy but their buckets and bank accounts didn’t fill up. As we got into it more, we discussed how those berries that seemed to be very accessible where actually very thin while others that might be harvestable quite easy by looking higher were very thick and full. That company has been getting fatter as a result.

Some more examples of sweet spots include a construction company who refused to say an outright no to difficult jobs. As a result, the company has become the leading authority for a large geographical area in many areas of construction that others refuse to work in. Other examples include a manufacturing company that started spe-

Poverty economists win Nobel Prize

The Associated Press

STOCKHOLM - Two researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a third from Harvard University won the 2019 Nobel Prize in economics on Monday for groundbreaking research into what works and what doesn’t in the fight to reduce global poverty.

The award went to MIT’s Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo and Harvard’s Michael Kremer. The 46-year-old Duflo is the youngest ever to win the prize and only the second woman, after Elinor Ostrom in 2009. The three winners have worked together.

They revolutionized developmental economics by pioneering field experiments - something like pharmaceutical companies’ drug tests - that generate practical insights into how poor people respond to educational, health care and other programs meant to lift them out of poverty.

“Without spending some time understanding the intricacies of the lives of the poor and why they make the choices they make ... it is impossible to design the right approach,” Duflo told a news conference held by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, who awarded the prize.

Their work in rural Kenya and in India, for instance, found that providing more textbooks, school meals and teachers didn’t do much to help students learn more.

Making the schoolwork more relevant to students, working closely with the neediest students and holding teachers accountable -

by putting them on short-term contracts, for example - were more effective in countries where teachers often don’t bother showing up for work. The winners’ recommended program of remedial tutoring is now benefiting 5 million Indian children, the academy said.

Kremer and others found that providing free health care makes a big difference: Only 18% of parents gave their children de-worming pills for parasitic infections when they had to pay for them, even though the heavily subsidized price was less than $1. But 75% gave their kids the pills when they were free. The World Health Organization now recommends that the medicine be distributed for free in areas with high rates of parasitic worm infections.

Bannerjee, Duflo and others found that mobile vaccination clinics in India dramatically increased the immunization rates compared to traditional health centres that often went unstaffed. The immunization rate rose further if parents received a bag of lentils as a bonus for vaccinating their children.

Bannerjee and Duflo, who are married, also have found that microcredit programs, which provide small loans to encourage poor people to start businesses, did little to help the poor in the Indian city of Hyderabad; studies in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Ethiopia, Morocco, Mexico and Mongolia, produced similar results.

Despite enormous progress, global poverty remains a huge challenge, the academy

noted. More than 700 million people live in extreme poverty. Five million children die before age 5, often from diseases that can be prevented or cured easily and inexpensively. Half the world’s children leave school without basic literacy and mathematical skills. Colleagues applauded the three winners.

“Well deserved!” tweeted French economist Thomas Piketty, author of a bestselling book on inequality.

“Fantastic decision!!” Max Roser, a University of Oxford researcher who founded the Our World in Data project, wrote on Twitter. “Even after two centuries of progress against global poverty I think it is clearly one of the very biggest problems in the world today.”

Duflo said receiving the Nobel was “incredibly humbling” while noting that the profession is not always welcoming for women.

“Showing that it is possible for a woman to succeed and be recognized for success I hope is going to inspire many, many other women to continue working and many other men to give them the respect that they deserve like every single human being,” she said.

Banerjee’s mother, Nirmala Banerjee, also an economist, told news channel NDTV in India that the prize was unexpected.

“He has been trying to get economics away from the theoretical part, but using theory to understand the world as it is,” she said from her home in Kolkata. “The way it works, the way poverty is, the way people handle poverty.”

cializing in unique formulas and as a result became experts in compounding products that others couldn’t.

An engineer I know specializes in layout of manufacturing facilities in a specific industry. Because there is little competition, he is well sought after and well paid.

As a retailer, when others were cutting back on customer service, we added staff and trained them well, looked for exclusive products and as a result were seen as the experts in our field which enable us to establish profit centres within the business.

When we look for sweet spots, we need to consider our abilities and build on our strengths; think about what we can do better than others and capitalize on those areas; look at our competition and see where there are gaps in the market where nobody is harvesting. When we establish ourselves as experts in certain areas, it allows us to charge premium prices and offer premium service. If we want to fill our buckets for the slow times, we need to ensure that we pick those nice fat berries and seek areas unnoticed by our competitors.

— Dave Fuller, MBA, is an award-winning business coach and the author of the book Profit Yourself Healthy. Take 10 minutes to email dave@profityourselfhealthy. com – it won’t be something you regret!

Banerjee frequently returns to India to contribute to the work of the Poverty Action Lab, an international research centre he and Duflo co-founded in 2003. “This is huge for us,” Shobhini Mukerji, the South Asia branch’s executive director told The Associated Press from New Delhi. “India is where the seeds were sown for their research.”

Banerjee this year advised India’s opposition party, the Congress, ahead of national elections in May about offering financial aid to the poor. He has also criticized the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi about alleged political interference in statistical data and over a program to take cash out of the economy.

Modi congratulated Banerjee in a post on Twitter.

The most recent married couple to win a Nobel was May-Britt and Edvard I. Moser, who won the medicine prize in 2014. Only a few other couples have won - notably Marie and Pierre Curie, who took half of the physics prize in 1903.

Officially known as the Bank of Sweden Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, the award wasn’t created by the prize founder, but is considered part of the Nobel awards.

It was created by the Swedish central bank in 1968, with the first winner selected a year later.

With the glory comes a 9 million-kronor ($918,000) cash award, a gold medal and a diploma.

Great Canadian HoCkey tour 7

ONe lucky reader will Win a trip for 2 tO....

CANADIAN

How it works: At the start of every week, entries will be drawn from each of the participating businesses, and of those entries, one weekly winner will be drawn. this winner will receive a $50 gift certificate from one of the participating businesses and will be entered in the final draw. At the close of the contest, the weekly winners will come together for the FiNAL GrAND PriZE LiVE DrAw! Prize includes: 2 tickets to each game, Double room hotel accommodations for 13 nights & Airfare*