Prince George Citizen July 9, 2020 by Prince George Citizen

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Local CBC reporter explores gender identity in podcast

Longtime local CBC Radio journalist Wil Fundal explores gender identity –including their own – in They & Us, a new six-part podcast.

The podcast introduces listeners to gender identity and why it matters.

Some people identify in traditional binary terms - female and male - using pronouns ‘she’ and ‘he’ while some people identify as non-binary, which is an umbrella term for people who do not identify as one or the other.

That is a simplified definition of a complicated subject that Fundal, who identifies as non binary with pronouns ‘they’ and ‘them,’ helps listeners navigate by offering a safe environment for those who are nonbinary to tell their stories, experts to provide information about gender identity and Fundal to share a bit of their own story.

“The podcasts are an entryway to learning about it,” Fundal said.

“It’s not the definitive guide.”

Fundal said they believe the six podcasts are enough for people to start thinking about what gender identity means.

“It gives enough for people to understand it and then they can do their own research to learn more about it,” they said.

The idea of creating the podcasts came about a year ago and shortly after that Fundal approached the guests and fellow CBC journalist Andrew Kurjata to help produce the project.

Included in the podcasts are snippets of Fundal’s own experiences like when they wore their high-heeled red boots to work for the first time, when they came out to their father.

During the podcasts, listeners also hear from a musician, a medical program student, a First nations educator and other area residents who chose to share their stories.

“The experiences they had illustrate some of the issues that exist,” Fundal said.

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Wil Fundal, a journalist for CBC Daybreak North, is the creator and host of a new podcast series called They & Us that talks about gender identity.

“It’s not going to be all of it but it is going to be some of it.”

These first-person stories aren’t something most people can easily access.

“We don’t talk about it,” Fundal said.

So during the process Fundal made the promise to create a safe space for those they interviewed.

“The intention is so that people can better understand these lived experiences - because I didn’t live those experiencesI’ve lived my own - and that’s how we got to some of the topics and issues we talk about in the podcasts,” Fundal said.

The entire podcast series is an illustration of the issues demonstrated through those personal experiences.

“It’s relatable because you have co-workers, friends - you may even have family members - who may have not told you but they might be somewhere in that spectrum

of gender identity and so if we continue to not talk about it and if we just kept going I think people will be left behind.”

Fundal said that’s not something they want to have happen.

“Because one day you will meet someone who introduces themselves ‘Hello, my name is Wil Fundal and my pronouns are ‘they’ and ‘them’,’ and I’ve experienced this when I’ve told people where they don’t know what to do. It’s like I’ve just taken my clothes off and now they’re like ‘ahhhhhh’. They’re in shock.

“My idea of making the world a better place is to say you don’t have to be scared when I just want people to know and I want them to be able to manage it and deal with it.”

They & Us is available through the CBC podcasts page and also through podcast apps.

Drivers wanted, email: drive@coastalrides.ca

Care homes need plans to allow visitors

Arthur WilliAMs Citizen staff

Although provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced last week that residents in long-term care and assisted-living homes are now able to have visitors on a limited basis, each facility needs to meet provincial requirements before going ahead.

Northern Health spokesperson Eryn Collins said it will take time to work out what the provincial announcement means for the health authority’s 25 longterm care facilities.

“I think at this point people are obviously very excited about this,” Collins said. “(But) people shouldn’t be heading to their local facility to visit their loved ones right at this moment.”

Each facility will require a written plan to comply with the provincial guidelines, and will have to look at the staffing and other issues within the facility, she said. What the timeline looks like will differ from facility to facility, but Northern Health will be working to allow visitors to return in a way that is safe, Collins said.

Details about how and when visitors will be allowed will be communicated at the facility level and to the public.

“The work to return to allowing visitors has been ongoing since we restricted them,” she said. “(But) our facilities are going to need some time to make the changes that are necessary and required.”

To start, residents are allowed to have a single designated visitor come to the facility for visits in a designated indoor or outdoor visiting area, Henry said.

Residents with mobility issues may be allowed to have visitors in their rooms, she added.

— See ‘WE START’ on page 4 R ide -Hailing is coming

Christine hinZMAnn Citizen staff

brown cbc Photo

Dream Home Lottery important this year, executive director says

Arthur WilliAms Citizen staff

The Prince George Hospice Society kicked off its signature fundraising campaign last week with the grand opening of the 2020 Hospice Dream Home.

This is the 10th year the hospice society has run its Dream Home Lottery and executive director Donna Flood said this year matters more than ever.

“COVID has changed a lot of things for us. In order to do what we do, the Dream Home Lottery is our biggest event,” Flood said. “We’re really heavily relying on it this year. Our donations are down about 44 per cent.”

The hospice society relies on donations and hosting a number of fundraising events to offer humane end of life care at the Rotary Hospice House, she said. Many of the hospice’s normal events have been cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic also means changes at the Dream Home, located at 3955 Larisa Court in the Nechako View subdivision.

The house will still be open for public viewing from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week, hospice special events coordinator

Sandra Klimm said. However, there will be a maximum of six people allowed inside the home itself at a time, and a maximum of four in the garage – including ticket sales volunteers.

In addition, visitors are asked to sanitize their hands before entering and to not touch anything unnecessarily.

Virtual tours of the home and online ticket sales are available at www.hospicedreamhome.ca. Tickets, which cost $100 for the home draw and $25 for the 50/50 draws, are also available at the hospice society office at 1506 Ferry Avenue during business hours and at Canadian Tire from Thursday to Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

New this year, there will be two 50/50 draws – each for a prize of up to $150,000, Klimm said. The first 50/50 draw is Sept. 25 and the second is on Dec. 18.

The grand prize draw will be Dec. 24, and tickets will be on sale until they sell out or 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Early-bird draws will be held July 31, Aug. 28, Oct. 23 and Nov. 20.

The 3,400-square-foot home has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, an extra-wide single garage, an office and a fully finished basement with separate access. The home is worth roughly $700,000.

Downtown housing projects moving forward

Arthur WilliAms Citizen staff

Work could begin later this year on a pair of proposed social housing projects at the corner of First Avenue and Ontario Street.

City council gave final reading to a pair of rezoning bylaws that will pave the way for the projects, which will include 50 units of supportive housing and 50 units of rental homes for low-income people. The move finalized the unanimous support council showed for the project during the public hearing for the project on Feb. 24.

“We’re working with the province, we’re expecting some construction to occur on this site later this year,” general manager of planning and development Ian Wells said.

The combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and opioid overdose crisis in the province has emphasized the need for projects like these, Wells said.

“It’s a pressure point to move this forward,” he said. “So we see some construction of a foundation happening probably

this year.”

The project is slated to be developed on the 1.7-hectare (4.3-acre) site currently occupied by NR Motors.

Each of the housing buildings will include ground-floors healthcare services, including a needle exchange and safe injection site, community outreach, mental health services and primary care for residents and the public.

“It’s a big initiative, (and) I think it’s long overdue,” Coun. Brian Skakun said.

The project is a partnership between the City of Prince George, BC Housing and Northern Health. The city will purchase the land, BC Housing will build the facility and Northern Health will provide the health services.

Mayor Lyn Hall said the city has been working with the other partners for twoand-a-half years to make it happen.

“This has been a tremendous amount of work for everybody,” Hall said. “As a matter of fact, our last meeting was just a few days ago to get this over the finish line.”

This project is an important piece of the

puzzle in terms of revitalizing downtown, Hall said, one that matches the importance of the major commercial and private residential developments happening downtown.

“This is one of the key components for downtown integrated health services to help us help folks who are on the street with mental illness, drug addiction – it’s a big deal.”

Citizen photo by Arthur WilliAms

Sandra Klimm of the Prince George Hospice Society, John Brink of Brink Properties Ltd., hospice executive director Donna Flood and Ruby Grewel of North Nechako Homes cut the ribbon officially opening the 2020 Prince George Dream Home Lottery on Tuesday.

City gets $10M grant for pool

Citizen staff

The federal and provincial governments have announced $10 million in funding to support construction of the new pool downtown.

The funding was part of $65.3 million in federal and provincial funding for 24 infrastructure projects in northern B.C.

“It’s fantastic news. It’s the largest grant the city has received in a decade,” Mayor Lyn Hall said.

“The pool really is one of the major projects downtown. It was one piece of the puzzle to attract people downtown.”

Excavation of the pool site on Seventh Avenue, between Dominion and Quebec Streets, is slated to begin by the end of the month.

Once complete, the new aquatic centre will replace the aging Four Seasons Leisure Pool.

The 38,600 square-foot facility will include a six-lane, 25-metre lap pool; fourlane, 25-metre teaching pool; leisure pool with a lazy river, beach entry and play features; a large waterslide; sauna and steam room; large universal change room; and rooms for lessons and training.

The city’s plan to heat the pool using the Downtown Renewable Energy System was a key part of attracting the federal and provincial funding, Hall said.

The city projects using renewable energy to heat the pool will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 95 per cent compared to heating it with natural gas.

The total project cost is budgeted at $42 million – $35 million for the pool design and build, and $7 million for the purchase and clearing of the site. Prince George voters authorized the city to borrow $35 million for the project during a 2017 refer-

endum.

“Council has an opportunity over the next couple weeks or month to decide how best to use the $10 million,” Hall said.

The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation was one of the other 23 groups to receive federal and provincial funding on Friday.

The Lheidli T’enneh received $7.8 million towards the Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Enhancement Project.

The project calls for the development of additional recreation facilities and amenities in the provincial park, located approximately 115 kilometres east of Prince George. The project includes the development of new riparian wetland hiking trails, an interpretive centre, sweat lodge, pit house, gazebo and improved accessible amenities such as boardwalks, pathways, washrooms, access roads, parking and signage.

‘We start small, as safe as we can’

— From page 1

Each facility is required to prepare a safety plan and comply with provincial guidelines.

No visitors will be allowed at any facility with an active outbreak of COVID-19.

“Of course, we’re all a little anxious because we know what can happen if we don’t get it right,” Henry said.

“Despite our efforts, families have lost mothers, fathers, grandparents.”

No visitors have been allowed at longterm care and assisted-living facilities since March.

Facilities will be required to have

designated staff to screen all visitors and visitors will be required to wear a mask, she said.

Visits will have be booked in advance so that facilities can spread out the number of visitors at any one time.

Personal service providers like hairdressers are allowed to serve clients in long-term facilities again, Henry said.

However, each service provider are required to have a safety plan before they can resume offering services.

Henry urged residents of long-term care to only leave the facility for essential trips and for assisted-living residents to always

follow physical distancing and other safety measures when they leave the facility.

“This has been a difficult time, being separated from the ones you love,” Henry said.

“For those suffering from dementia, it can be a confusing and difficult time.”

She said her office will be monitoring the situation and consulting with the sector and may update her orders in time.

“We start small, as safe as we can, then expand slowly as we learn,” she said.

“Our hope and our plan for all our restart things is it will keep us going over the next 12 months or as long as this lasts.”

B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix announced $160 million in funding for the province’s 680 long-term care homes

“Investing in community, recreation and cultural infrastructure promotes people’s health and well-being and builds strong dynamic communities where people want to put down roots and do business,” B.C. MP Patrick Weiler said in a press release.

“These... will support local economies now, and bring residents new facilities and amenities that will make a real difference in people’s lives for years to come.”

A spokesperson for the Lheidli T’enneh could not be reached for comment as of press time. Some of the other projects that received funding on Friday include a Saik’uz First Nations cultural centre in Vanderhoof, upgrades to the ice plants at community centres in Valemount and McBride, construction of a new community centre for the Salteau First Nation, a festival plaza in Fort St. John and upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant in Granisle.

to hire up to three full-time staff each to organize and monitor visits to the facilities.

In addition, Dix announced $26.5 million to help facilities cover the costs of infectioncontrol and other measures that were taken in response to the pandemic.

“We have lost almost 100 people in longterm care,” Dix said.

“Regardless of how people in other places do, that is still too many.”

The decision to allow the approximately 32,000 British Columbians who live in long-term care to have visitors during a pandemic was one of the hardest of his career, Dix said.

“We know what it means to them. It will allow them to live better in this time of pandemic.”

CN Rail to spend $445 million in B.C.

Citizen staff

CN Rail will be spending $445 million this year on expanding and upgrading its network across British Columbia.

The work will include adding track in yards to handle growing traffic, building new sidings between Prince Rupert and Edmonton and continuing ongoing efforts to increase capacity at Port of Vancouver and Port of Prince Rupert.

The maintenance program calls for replacing more than 160 kilometres of rail, installing over 209,000 new railroad ties and 46,000 concrete ties, rebuilding 22 road crossing surfaces and maintenance work on bridges, culverts, signal systems,

and other track infrastructure.

“We take our essential role in the North American economy seriously and these investments in British Columbia are a key part of our strategy to support growth,” said CN western region vice president James Thompson in a statement.

At the Port of Vancouver, CN has coal, grain and intermodal terminals. In the Vancouver area, CN has two distribution centres for forest products, two for metals, three for automotive products, and a CN CargoFlo bulk handling centre.

In Prince George, CN has an intermodal terminal and another CargoFlo bulk handling facility in Ashcroft. Vancouver is home to a major rail classification yard.

TraffiC sTop leads To seizure of gun, drugs

Citizen staff

Crown counsel has approved a charge of possessing a prohibited firearm against a former Kelowna man allegedly found with a loaded handgun and magazines holding about 60 rounds of ammunition during a traffic stop on Saturday evening.

Anthony James Graham, 34, remained in

custody on the count as of Monday.

RCMP said James was a passenger in a vehicle officers pulled over on Dawson Road in the Hart as a result of an infraction under the Motor Vehicle Act.

Police said Graham, who tried to flee on foot but was soon caught, was wearing soft body armour and was in possession of a substantial amount of cash, methamphet-

amine, cocaine and fentanyl.

A search of the vehicle uncovered drug trafficking paraphernalia, which was seized along with the vehicle itself, RCMP said.

The driver, a 31-year-old woman whose name was not provided, was released without charges but drug charges may be approved at a later date, RCMP said.

Graham had recently moved to Prince

George from Kelowna, RCMP said.

“This is great work by our officers, seizing a substantial amount of cash and drugs, and removing a prohibited firearm from the street” Prince George RCMP Staff Sgt. Darin Rappel. “Who knows what kind of harm we were able to prevent as a result of this traffic stop.”

Community foundation creates emergency fund

The Prince George Community Foundation announced a new emergency response fund to help with COVID-19 relief in the city.

Eligible projects can receive up to $5,000 in grants through the fund. The fund is possible thanks to the success of the foundation’s Stay-at-Home Gala in May, which raised more than $52,000.

“The ability of charities and other organizations in our community to respond to the unique and growing needs of vulnerable populations as a result of the COVID19 pandemic has been put under strain,” foundation president Alain LeFebvre said in a press release. “Our hope is that these programs will provide some support to those who are working hard to address the needs of those in our communities who are

WorkSafeBC fines construction companies

Citizen staff

WorkSafeBC fined two construction companies for safety violations at worksites in Prince George during April.

Inner Circle Construction was issued a $2,844.47 penalty on April 22 after an inspector found workers without personal fall protection despite being near the edge of an open elevator shaft on a partiallysheeted fourth floor of a residential build-

ing, exposing them to a 11.6-metre (38-foot) fall. A guardrail was in place but there was a gap in the area where they were working.

1163721 B.C. Ltd. was fined $2,739.90 on April 9 after an inspector found a worker on the second-storey deck of an apartment building installing vinyl siding while standing on a plank that was on top of two workbenches, also while not using a personal fall protection system.

most impacted by this crisis.”

Projects that support children, youth, seniors, homeless or otherwise marginalized people, or vulnerable workers and caregivers are eligible to apply for funding.

“The Prince George Community Foundation believes in the future of Prince George and it is during times like these where we must come together, now more than ever,” foundation director of development Mindy

Stroet said in a press release. “We’re also so thankful for our generous donors whose ongoing support has enabled us to create the Prince George Emergency Response Fund. These combined efforts will provide meaningful funding to support those on the front-line of this crisis.”

For more information, go online to www. pgcf.ca. Applications will be accepted until July 31.

Citizen staff

mArk NiElsEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The co-owner of a campground near Summit Lake says the Fraser-Fort George Regional District is partly to blame for the racist graffiti found at the resort’s entrance.

If not for the FFGRD’s refusal to back away from the legal action it is pursuing against him and his brother, Bernard Chingee said it is unlikely he would have found the phrase “Hey Indian Leave this Damn Gate Open” in marker on the formal sign attached to the gate at Loons Haven Family Resort.

In June 2018, the FFGRD filed a notice of claim against Bernard and Justin Chingee seeking a court order to shut down a campground on the north shore of Summit Lake, alleging the use has exceeded the length of a temporary use permit for the

site.

In responses filed 3 1/2 months later, they claimed the FFGRD has no authority to take the action because the resort is on treaty land.

Other than to change its lawyer, the FFGRD has taken no action since then.

Chingee said the FFGRD has no case and its refusal to back off has only heightened tensions.

“The regional district kind of inflames it, saying that “this is our land, not yours, we’re going to take you to court,’” he said Thursday.

“They’re silly.”

The FFGRD has had a policy of not commenting on matters before the court.

Although not impressed with the graffiti, Chingee appeared to be taking the matter in stride.

“If I catch him, I’ll spank him,” he said

with a laugh.

“I’ll be telling him ‘don’t be doing that, you little boy.’”

FFGRD spokeswoman Renee McCloskey said the graffiti has left regional district “disheartened” and condemns the act.

“The strength of our region comes from the diversity of the people who live here and call this place home,” she said.

“Racism is unacceptable and there is no place for that in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.”

With respect to the court action, McCloskey limited her comment tosay the FFGRD’s case is proceeding.

Racist graffiti was found on a sign at the entrance to Loons Haven Family Resort at the north end of Summit Lake.

Downtown PG hosts ‘virtual Summerfest’

Arthur WilliAms Citizen staff

Downtown Prince George has been working to support businesses in the city’s core during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Certainly COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into our plans this year, as it has for everybody,” Downtown PG president Eoin Foley said.

Foley, who is the co-founder of Nancy O’s and Betulla Burning, said many of the downtown’s businesses – especially those that rely on customers coming through the

New date set for concert Regional distRict blamed foR Racist gRaffiti

door – are struggling.

“At this time we’re just making sure we are keeping the doors open and surviving,” he said.

“Without some of the government assistance, a lot of those businesses wouldn’t be open, because they depend on being at 100 per cent (capacity) to stay open.”

Executive director Colleen Van Mook said the organization has shifted gears this year, putting less emphasis on events to supporting businesses adapt to the changing requirements and promoting cleaner streets.

“It’s not forever, it’s for now,” she said.

“We have a lot of fighters in our downtown businesses. Everyone has had to think differently and we wanted to help our businesses... I guess the word is pivot.”

Downtown PG created grant programs to help businesses buy supplies or install barriers in order to meet their safety plans to reopen.

In addition, they created a second program to help businesses increase their online presence and engage in e-commerce.

Downtown PG is also offering gift card

Citizen staff

Previously postponed due to the COVID19 pandemic the Saints And Sinners tour will perform in Prince George on Jan. 18.

The tour features Big Wreck, Headstones, Moist and The Tea Party.

sales for downtown businesses through its website, downtownpg.com, Van Mook said.

One of Downtown PG’s signature events, Summerfest, will still be happening – in an at-home, virtual form.

On July 12, starting at 11 a.m., the downtownpg.com website will feature a “virtual Summerfest” – local music, entertainment, crafts, cooking classes and more, Van Mook said.

The virtual event will be available to stream for at least a week after July 12, so residents who miss it on the Sunday can still enjoy it, she added.

Tickers start at $49 and can be purchased through TicketsNorth. Those who have previously purchased tickets and cannot attend on the new date can also get a refund through TicketsNorth until Fri., July 24 by calling 236-423-1157.

Valemount Glacier Resort expects delays

Glacier Media

Eight years after it was conceived and three years after approval was granted, construction of a major highalpine ski resort near Valemount was to begin next year, but proponents say delays are expected.

The venture would initially feature a day lodge, mountain-top restaurant, viewing platform, several ski lifts and a base area of infrastructure.

The site of the project, which is valued in excess of $100 million, is located near Mount Robson Provincial Park and Jasper National Park in the B.C. Rockies.

Tommmaso Oberti, vice-president of Oberti Oberti Architecture and Urban Design Inc. in Vancouver, admits there remains some uncertainty due to the current economic climate.

“The project is undergoing a financing process and it is unclear when construction may start. We’re aiming for next summer, but the current investment climate

is uncertain, so it is difficult to say at this point,” Oberti, who is also vice-president of the Phieidias Group, told Western Investor on June 29.

The initial price tag for the venture was pegged at $100 million but could reach $500 million once the entire resort village is built. Efforts to raise funds are ongoing and there are several capital partners involved in the project.

“It will provide an alpine experience that is unlike anything else in B.C. or North America,” explained Oberti. “From a sightseeing perspective, it will give visitors the opportunity to access high-mountain glaciers and vistas and admire them from above, rather than below. This is very different from the predominantly valleybased experiences that are available in the national parks.”

The glacier resort would be a first for North America that would operate all year. The venue will be on the traditional territory of the Simpcw First Nation and

centred on the eastern approaches of Mt. Sir Wilfrid Laurier with views of Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies, with lift access to the viewpoints and glaciers surrounding Mt. Arthur Meighen by way of Mt. Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

The plan calls for a ski-in-ski-out resort village containing up to 2,295 bed units west of the Village of Valemount and at the base of Mount Trudeau. In total, the resort will have 18 lifts built over three phases. There will be 813 hectares (2,000 acres) of ski runs at build-out. Elevation at the top of the peaks will be 3,025 metres with a vertical drop of 2,090 metres, the largest in North America and the third largest in the world.

To build the venture, materials will have to be trucked into the area for the resort village and moved up the mountains for the lift infrastructure and restaurant. According to Oberti, the lift system will be specially designed to carry the building materials up to the peaks.

The idea for the project began in 2012 when the consultants were approached by the Village of Valemount to investigate the possibility of developing a glacier skiing destination as a means of economic diversification and stimulus.

The venture really picked up steam in 2017 when Valemount Glacier Destinations Ltd. and the Province of British Columbia signed a 60-year master plan agreement approving the destination.

The process resulted in a provincial master plan approval and unanimous consent for an official community plan amendment and rezoning by the regional district in 2019. Simpcw First Nation, which will be a partner in the venture, also signed off on the project.

Oberti said the project will be unique as it will combine both skiing and sightseeing opportunities and has strong and wideranging support from the local community, First Nations and regional and provincial governments.

math teacher earns top award

Citizen staff

When the British Columbia Association of Mathematics Teachers added up all the data, it reached an inescapable conclusion and named Tamara DeFord winner of its Outstanding Elementary School Teacher award for 2019-20.

DeFord is a Grade 5-6 teacher at Prince George’s Ecole College Heights Elementary. As a BCAMT award recipient, she was judged to have demonstrated strength in numeracy, teaching, innovation, curriculum, assessment practices, professional learning and mentorship.

“It seems pretty crazy,” DeFord said of being chosen for the provincial honour.

“I always think that 11-year-olds are really great at keeping you humble because I certainly don’t feel like I go into the classroom every day and have things work out perfectly. But it’s nice to be recognized for work that I’ve put in to learn about becoming a better math teacher and how to make math more exciting for kids, which is something I feel really strongly about.”

DeFord was nominated for the BCAMT award by Marie Fanshaw, District Numeracy Resource Teacher in School District No. 57.

“I cannot think of anyone who is more passionate about making sure that her students really love math,” Fanshaw said. “It’s just a really positive math environment in her classroom.

“Tamara is very forward-thinking and she always has her kids actively engaged,” Fanshaw added. “When I visit Tamara’s classroom, her kids are always up and moving and doing math. She’s always

getting them to do their learning, she’s not just a stand-and-deliver teacher. She’s very hands-on and she then builds their capacity by having them engage in some self-directed learning projects. She really builds her community of learners. It’s something Tamara has always been passionate about and I think that transfers through to her students.”

DeFord just completed her third year at Ecole College Heights Elementary and her 13th in SD 57. She has also taught at Quinson Elementary, Pineview Elementary and spent time in the district’s Learning Innovations department, now known as Curriculum and Innovation. Inside the classroom, student engagement is always a top priority for her.

“I spend a lot of time planning for things that will be interesting and engaging for my students,” she said. “I want them to know that math is more than just calculations, that math is all around us in the world and that it can be really fun and really creative.”

DeFord often has her students work in groups. In this way, she encourages and enables them to tackle challenging problems and solve them together.

“I try to bring in context where I can and I try to let kids play with concepts and ideas where I can,” DeFord said. “I try to make it something that is more than just a textbook.”

One of DeFord’s favourite activities is something she calls Number Talks.

“It’s just a really quick routine that I start off most of my classes with,” she said.

w“I pose a problem for the kids and they have to come up with a way to solve it in their heads – so working on their mental math skills. It’s a really great way

Ecole College Heights Elementary Tamara DeFord was named the British Columbia Association of Mathematics Teachers outstanding elementary school teacher for 2019-20.

for kids to see that everybody approaches problems in a different way. I give them a few minutes to think about the question and then I have students share their strategies – how did they solve it, how did they approach the problem? Kids really love participating. They love to talk about and share how they thought about the problem.

“It’s awesome for me because I get to learn more about how kids think and it’s awesome for the kids because they learn from each other. And it’s been really powerful for me as a teacher because I realize now, so profoundly, that kids come all ready to class with lots of really good ideas about numbers and how they work and we just have to really kind of tap into that and

encourage them to move forward, more than telling them how to do things.”

Typically, DeFord also does a geometry project with her students.

“This year, my students did a project called Geometrocity where they build a city out of geometry and build it up in three dimensions,” she said. “It’s pretty cool and really engaging and they really like doing it and learn a lot of geometry while they do it.”

This year’s Geometrocity project would have been done in teams in the classroom but the halt to in-class learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic forced a change of plans. Instead, students worked individually in their own homes.

“(The cities) still looked beautiful,” DeFord said. “They did a good job.”

In the provincial curriculum, areas of concentration for Grade 5-6 math classes include fractions, decimals, number properties (multiples, factors, prime numbers, composite numbers, whole-number calculations) and financial literacy (budgeting, financial transactions, making change). As much as possible, DeFord uses hands-on methods to help students master these concepts.

Outside the classroom, DeFord has worked as a math liaison for SD 57, which she said was beneficial in her own professional development. As well, she has led district-level workshops on several occasions.

“I’ve been really fortunate to be able to participate in some of that mentoring of teachers and helping other teachers in the district to grow and learn, which I really love doing,” she said.

DeFord is the only northern-based winner of a BCAMT award.

submitted photo

Where math leads us

Congratulations to Tamara DeFord of Ecole College Heights Elementary for winning the Outstanding Elementary School Teacher award for 2019-20 from the British Columbia Association of Mathematics Teachers.

oUr VIEW

“I want them (her students) to know that math is more than just calculations, that math is all around us in the world and that it can be really fun and really creative,” the Grade 5-6 teacher said.

DeFord is doing current and future generations a great service if she inspires even just a handful of kids to pursue the incredible diversity of career options in math, from accounting, finance, economics and statistics to computer science, physics and pure mathematics.

Pure math and theoretical physics over the past century have strayed into philosophy, as Albert Einstein was both excited and dismayed to discover. His theories of relativity explained and predicted so much universal phenomena that were later discovered, from black holes to gravitational waves, but his calculations also reached some mindblowing conclusions.

If reality is actually a four-dimensional structure called spacetime, then our linear understanding of time is an illusion. In the same way that bats and dolphins communicate at pitches humans cannot hear directly or insects see ultraviolet light, perhaps our senses and human consciousness itself are simply evolutionary constructs to perceive time as distinct and separate from space to help us succeed as a species.

To paraphrase Dr. Seuss, oh, the places you can go with math!

Einstein was less bothered about the ramifications of spacetime than he was about quantum mechanics.

LETTERS to the editor

WastE of tImE

On June 25, I attended (by videoconference) Skeena – Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach’s Building a Better Normal Town Hall meeting. The two-hour-long session was facilitated by MP Bachrach and several of his employees. Approximately 60 engaged citizens called in.

The participants offered many interesting, well-thought-out, and practical suggestions.

Afterwards, I emailed MP Bachrach’s office and asked for the minutes of the meeting and any action items or next steps coming out of it. A few days later I received an email response from an assistant stating that: “It was never our plan to produce a formal report or action plan coming out of this particular meeting, so unfortunately I have nothing to share with you on that front.”

Our MP and his staff (making over $300,000 per year in combined wages) hosted a public meeting from three comfortable and well-furnished constituency and parliamentary offices. Sixty people from many communities across Northwest B.C. gave up two hours of their evening to participate and offer their experiences, ideas, and passion for our region. The result? Under four hundred words worth of vague notes provided by an anonymous attendee.

The meeting’s title was Building a Better Normal. No building was happening during the meeting, and nothing better came out of it. Sadly, this unproductive approach to politics is normal.

If we want a better future for our region, we need to create a plan, set some goals, and take real and meaningful action towards achieving them. Our local elected

GEORGE Member of the National Newsmedia

representatives should be leading the process. Disappointingly, this meeting had a more political and less practical purpose.

Darcy Repen Telkwa

aIrport quEstIons

A few years ago the city and the Prince George Airport embarked on a major expansion that included creating the third longest airport runway in Canada and the development of a huge industrial park stretching for more than six kilometres along the brand new, paved and lighted Boundary Road on the west side of the airport, linking highway’s 16 and 97.

Much of this, we understood, was predicated on prospective refueling and staging of air freight between Asia and the U.S. East Coast. Most of that traffic had hitherto been handled through Anchorage, Alaska, but Prince George lay even closer to the optimal ‘great circle’ flight routes.

So, a decade or more on, with the runway extension and Boundary Road long completed, why hasn’t that business taken off to the extent that was hoped?

Now Anchorage has temporarily become the world’s busiest airport, with an immense amount of COVID-19 related air freight.

Why has the YXS plan not taken full flight yet, especially in light of this enormous boom in air cargo through the region? Is there an immediate opportunity to change that?

If a key stumbling block relates to tariffs and other regulatory matters, could there be a better opportunity to work with the feds to change that?

Mike Nash

Prince George

At the building block level of matter itself, the regular rules of physics don’t apply. In superposition, matter can be in two states or positions at once. Yet under observation, superposition collapses. To use a famous example, Schrodinger’s cat is both alive and dead in its box but the moment the box is opened, the cat is alive or dead.

“God does not play dice,” Einstein famously quipped in frustration, convinced reality couldn’t be so flimsy and random.

Since his death, however, those scientific and mathematical concepts have been refined to power computers, cell phones and digital communication.

In other words, anyone who believes they are seeing and hearing their loved one through Facetime also has to reckon with the prospect of infinite realities and multiverses, so near and so far away.

When DeFord tells her students that math is all around us, theoretical physicists like Max Tegmark take the numbers one step further. In his 2014

CommunIst EdItor

So I submitted a letter to the editor. It was pretty basic, simply asking a couple of questions but it would seem that the editor has a hard on for any of my contributions. Such a shame, as the shame should be heaped on this editor for inflicting a power imbalance and stifling free speech.

Good job, Neil. Your Communist puppet masters must be proud. You see the problem with everything you lopsidedly post is so obvious to the people that that have eyes to see and ears to hear. You just expound the tenets of Communism. You come across in your contributions as more knowledgeable and more virtuous then the people that you address but trust me, you are none of that.

Tom Moore Prince George

moosE farCE

I cannot understand MLA John Rustad’s indignation regarding the moose hunt when his own government did exactly the same thing 10-12 years ago.

They set out to increase the number of moose (all sizes) that could be harvested in game management areas north of Summit Lake. Two guides would have had their territories wiped out. The guides asked me to meet with them and Fish and Wildlife to argue against it.

No matter how the point was argued, Fish and Wildlife were hell bent on increasing the quota. Their excuse was to starve out the wolves “to protect the caribou.” That was unbelievable. We asked “what wolves don’t eat caribou” and the reply was “they can’t catch them in the snow.” It was obvious that these so-called biologists

MAILING ADDRESS

book Our Mathematical Universe, Tegmark made a bold and compelling case that reality itself might be – in its purest form - a complex mathematical structure where all space and time exists simultaneously. Put another way, math might be everywhere (and everywhen) because it forms the basis of everything, he argues.

The math and science doesn’t exist yet to fully test such a radical hypothesis but the current accepted calculations and philosophy suggest such a notion is within the realm of possibility.

Perhaps DeFord has or is about to inspire the young girl or boy who will dive down this rabbit hole and transform the world and our understanding of it by finding some answers to such tantalizing puzzles.

Great teachers like DeFord inspire young minds to reach beyond the possible.

Math is the best tool we have to explore what lies there.

Neil Godbout, editor-in-chief

had no idea.

The caribou were starving due to the clear cuts which were harvesting every stick that had lichen on it. In fact I believe Rustad was Minister of Forests when a huge cut block was approved in the caribou grazing area.

So direct your indignation at that idiotic committee studying the caribou that your government started and let it run wild. The people that know the area like trappers and guides will never be consulted as they don’t mince words.

Terry Burgess Prince George

polICE

dIVErsIty

I am writing in reference to the article “The RCMP need to make changes” by Trudy Klassen. I agree with majority of the article except the part about the RCMP having one of the most diverse workplaces. I am not sure where that information is coming from but there are a number of diversity reports that advise the RCMP are one of the least diverse work forces. One recent article said their diversity numbers have remained stagnant since 2018, I believe. They haven’t been able to recruit an Inuk officer in 15 years.

The NDP and Liberals have all been all over the RCMP to increase diversity, as it has been shown numerous times that diversity is strength and where else better to have it than policing, which need to adapt to a variety of ethnic backgrounds.

We should not be getting on them about this initiative of increasing diversity, we should encourage them to set the example of diversity in the workforce for all.

Mike Eaglechild Lethbridge

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PRINCE

Holiday at home is your patriotic duty

Apologies for my unscheduled hiatus. Tourists have finally emerged from quarantine and they are eager to stretch their legs. Of course Americans are missing the action, as our border remains closed. But we can rest assured the culture of “global citizenship” that resulted in Michael Igantieff has been waylaid under the shadow of COVID-19. Hopefully this is the death of snowbirding and excursions to banana republics - that was always beneath Canadian dignity.

Touring at home is not so bad; or, rather, all the aspects that make it bad are the fault of well-known suspects castigated for years. We could have ten airlines instead of one and a half. The taxes on fuel cause cross country convoys with the family to be unaffordable. Verily I say to ye, it is a crime against our common humanity that it costs less to fly to Europe than it does to hop or drive between our oversized provinces. We need a transportation revolution immediately.

Our Dear Leader is right to a point - we are a post-national state in the sense that

Coming out of COVID-19 and just beginning to see the fallout, with businesses and charities closing down, can be depressing. Not only have we shut down vast parts of the economy for over three months, but we have also spent money like never before, buying a second and probably third mortgage on this home we call Canada.

The way to dig ourselves out of a money pit is to spend less than we earn. Unless we are willing to slash our healthcare and education spending, our only option is to earn more. The bright spot, if we can learn to stop apologizing for everything Canadian, is our resource sector. In it lies the chance to pull ourselves out of the COVID-hole we dug with jobs and money to pay off our debt. It’s a win-win.

There is vast potential for expansion of the resource sector in Canada. B.C. is home to many of the natural resources the world wants and needs. Here in P.G., at UNBC, we have the new engineering

Science seems to have found the secret to a long and happy life. Researcher Kelly McGonigal tells us, “Go after what creates meaning in your life and then trust yourself to handle the stress that follows.”

In recent years, however, we have looked at stress as our enemy, seeking instead to live in complete ease.

One of the primary points of McGonigal’s research is that the impact stress has on our health has less to do with its cause and more to do with how we think about it.

If we see stress as something to be avoided and believe it will hurt us, then it will have a negative impact. If we see it as an opportunity for growth, it can actually be very good for us.

An athlete playing in a championship game, for example, is in a stressful environment. If proving that one is up to the challenge is meaningful to this person, the stress simply becomes a source of joy and fulfilment.

Most would agree that teaching is a

RIGHT OF CENTRE

NATHAN GIEDE

no one seems to know their history, save the Archie Bunker types or those agitating for an ethno-state in the old country. This could be remedied by getting on planes, trains, automobiles, and ships so we might be able to access the farthest corners of the second largest nation on Earth. Fun fact: Canadians were famous for our logistical prowess before we became suburban wastrels.

Part of the fossilization of our national spirit is that our history lives in static glass boxes, lending itself to the nonsensical interpretation of nihilistic numbskulls with post-nominals. If you actually tan a hide, raft a river with animals aboard, go “over the top” in full battle gear, or help land a DeHavilland Beaver, the hyphenated studies offered in our Marxist and pagan temples by the high priests of academia

are exposed for what they are - the most pitiful kind of abject fraud.

But to get to the real world requires both personal gumption and competent government, neither of which are fostered by our current educational apparatus. Our curricula preach against any type of pride extending beyond the Person-Trudeau consensus, including the roads, ports, or aerospace structures that have never been improved since their rule. It is strange that our country, based on a drunk Scot’s vision of a 3,000 km railway, has lines sinking into the muskeg.

Here’s a hot take - almost all of our remotest communities’ needs as well as our duty to better travel our own dominion could be fulfilled with dirigibles. The carrying capacity, resistance to harsh weather, and ability to set down almost anywhere are incomparable advantages. Add to this that nearly all of the environments can be left pristine, and it seems possible to get buy in from every faction. Before you say I’m crazy, recall: drunk guy + railroad to nowhere = Canada.

Of course it all comes back to the disembodiment of our existence, a rather odd

malaise to have affected a country where survival is still the central theme of all our arts, expressive as well as practical. Even in our metropolises, meeting our Maker can occur via exposure; in those places preserved from pricey coffee or awful donuts, apex predators, lacking skills, and rapidly changing weather still take people every year - perhaps even me, if I can’t get better sea legs.

So the solution is rather simple - to relive what our ancestors had to endure in order for them to build this Dominion called Canada.

One can do that on holiday briefly, but to instill such an understanding in the populace, our curricula will have to be radically altered so kids grow up with a sense of what it was like to cross the ice on the Bering Strait, the prairies in a wagon, or the rocks at Juno Beach. And “a sense of” isn’t a textbook or video - it’s going there in person.

No country without a coherent understanding of its past, good and bad, can survive the onslaught of the future. So, as we open back up, save our nation - go on holidays here at home.

Resource coalition worth supporting

THINKING ALOUD TRUDY KLASSEN

programs that will educate a new group of people who would like to settle here, but they have to have job and business opportunities to entice them to stay. As our annual timber supply is reduced, those who have been laid off need new jobs. Wouldn’t it be nice if our recent graduates, and those that have started their families already, could stay in Prince George and not have to leave to find opportunity?

Locally, we have at least two projects that could build those opportunities and to increase our prosperity. These projects could begin to provide part of the boost we need. BC Hemp Corporation and West Coast Olefins are two projects which will produce thousands of high-paying jobs

if they go ahead. Not only jobs, but the spinoffs from these two projects alone would build up local manufacturing capacity which would help bring Prince George businesses up to a level where they could compete for the big jobs, instead of always showing up as the little guys. We could finally be a city to move to, again, instead of from.

For that to happen, these projects have to get off the ground. They have to get from permitting, to building, to producing. To that end, a new project advocacy group has been formed. Their growing list of corporate sponsors are recognizable as businesses that sponsor kids’ sports teams, athlletes, and other non-profits. Their mission is: “Advocate sustainable use of Natural Resources within British Columbia through community, Indigenous, and Government engagement and consultation to promote the development and implementation of world-class environmental stewardship and manufacturing technologies. Encourage local and provincial governing

The right stress is good for you

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

stressful profession. There are constantly changing demands. One has to adapt to new curriculum, new research, new circumstances, a new and more intricate way of reporting on student progress, not to mention the needs of each individual student. Just when you think you have things figured out, something else changes.

Yet, when I walk into a classroom I’m filled with energy.

When I think about my work, I feel as though I am on a mission which is still taking shape, despite over 30 years in the field. I know that I have made a difference in the lives of my students and that my students will continue to make a difference in the world long after I am gone. We are

on a constant quest for truth and we know that if we are ever going to find it, we need to listen to each other.

Of course, teachers are not the only people doing meaningful work. The same could be said for any profession or life commitment. Is there anything more demanding and more rewarding, for example, than being a parent?

The key is to go from an attitude of, “Woe is me,” to saying, “What can I learn from this and how will I respond?”

This leads to mindfulness, stepping out of the demands of life into a place where one is free to decide the best way forward. It is also important to note that while most stress is potentially positive, there is stress that is toxic and harmful. Sometimes the best response is to consciously distance ourselves from a circumstance.

In essence, when we face stress, we have three choices. We can fight, we can flee or we can learn to manage the situation. This can be as simple as making sure we are eating well, getting enough rest or adjust-

bodies to enact legislation for the protection and sovereignty of British Columbia’s natural resources value-added sector, establishing BC as a viable and diverse hub of industry and commerce.”

This new group is called The BC Resource Coalition. You can find them online. They have hit the ground running with an aggressive publicity campaign. They have already done live town-halls online with northern mayors, local business owners, and project promoters. You can watch their archived townhalls at https://www.thebcrc.ca/facebook-livetownhalls/. Their weekly live podcasts run Thursday evenings at 7:15 and you can watch them at https://www.facebook.com/ watch/thebcrc.ca/

And they have cool swag that says stuff like “BC Resources, #whyshouldyoucare”

This group is another example of people not giving up on the north, on Prince George, on B.C., and Canada. It’s encouraging to know there are others with hope, and I wish them every success.

ing our breathing.

Of course, no one is an island. There is tremendous wisdom in asking questions and seeking support as we manage stressful situations. There is also great strength in acknowledging when we have made mistakes.

The world has been going through very difficult times in recent months. We can’t control the fact that there is a global pandemic happening. We can’t control the fact that there is a great deal of civil unrest.

Each of us controls how we respond, however. If we can take a step back and breathe deeply, we can see the tremendous opportunities being presented to us in this moment.

Stress is simply a part of life, a very important part of life. It is nothing but a message that we need to face the challenges before us. The world needs our goodness, our courage and our wisdom, and sharing these gifts brings us the joy and satisfaction of a meaningful life.

‘Together

we look after one another’

GSENIORS’ SCENE

KATHY NADALIN

ary Parrish was born in Grand Prairie, Alta. in 1942. His parents moved west and ended up in Prince George in 1952. His father found work in the logging industry and worked many years as a faller in the Chief Lake area. Gary grew up and went to school in Chief Lake until he was 14.

During the summer months, he worked with his father as a horse logger. It was hard work but he managed to keep up. When he made the decision to quit school, his father gave him three options: work in the sawmill, go back to school or go into town and get a job.

Gary said, “I had $35 in my pocket and I thought I was rich. I took option three and left home. I knew people in Regina, Sask., so I headed east to find work. I returned to Prince George in 1961 and worked as a faller in the bush. I married my long-time sweetheart May Taylor in Quesnel on December 24, 1961.”

May was born in Prince George in 1943. May worked at the Westside Grill in Quesnel until she got married and then the newlyweds moved to Prince George. Gary immediately framed a 12’ x 24’ cabin and they moved in before it was completed. May said, “We probably moved in too soon because when the temperature dropped to minus 60 everything froze including the potatoes we had stored in the refrigerator. We lived through it and it didn’t seem to matter much because we were in love.

“In the spring, we moved the cabin a mile down the road onto our own property in Ferndale in the Upper Fraser area. Gary finished the house and two years after we were married the first of our five children arrived. I was a stay-at-home mom and we raised all five of our children on that piece of property. Our five children gave us 10 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren and of course they are all perfect in every way.”

Gary worked as a heavy-duty machine operator and a truck driver until he bought two trucks and formed his own company. He did contract work for the next 20 years

and eventually sold the company. They moved to Alberta in 1998 and bought a farm. Gary farmed and drove truck on the side for the next 15 years. May worked as the cook at the Husky Truck stop.

Life was good when suddenly Gary suffered a stroke in 2013. They were forced to sell everything and move back to Prince George.

Gary said, “I had three strokes and a serious heart attack and I was forced into retirement. I had a hard time coping with that. I spent many months in a wheel chair until I progressed to a cane. I hated being dependent upon a cane so I started giving them away to people I met that I felt needed a cane more than I did. May just went out and bought me another one.

“I am still recovering and with the help of May I am getting along quite well. Without the help of May’s strong and steady arm I would be in deep trouble. Together we look after one another. I am not about to give up because I still want to take May out dancing.”

May said, “I run the snow blower now because I have the legs and Gary manages the snow removal process from his chair. He is the coach and keeps all the equipment in good running condition.

“I gave Gary a dog for Christmas and now Daisy is his best friend and his constant companion. That gift has turned out to be great therapy for both of us.

“Before this pandemic we would regularly attend the Old Time Fiddlers jam sessions on Thursday night and the

How to keep plans on track

Aprofessional came from the big city to a small town to build a cabin so he could escape the hustle and bustle of life and set down roots where he could return to revive his spirits. His plan was to build a tiny house from the ground up. He asked around for help building his dream and found a couple of guys willing to give him a day’s work in exchange for his professional services. Things started to go sideways when it was discovered that there were no plans for the tiny house. This might not have been a problem if the professional had hired a carpenter to draw up the plans and help supervise the job, however in an attempt to save money, the professional opted to leave his dream in the hands of the free help. It’s true that one of the two helpers had some experience in construction, but what the professional didn’t

know was that that helper was prone to make mistakes.

As the day of construction neared, one of the guys asked if the lumber was going to be ready.

“Tell me what I need” said the professional.

The helper drew up a list and on the day of the build, the two boys showed up and went to work building the tiny house. Down went the floor, as they were about to lift the first wall up, the professional asked where the door was. Because there were no plans, the helpers had thought they were building a back wall while the

professional thought they were building the front wall. There was mass confusion.

Unfortunately, this is how most people and businesses operate. We start with a vision in our mind of what we want to achieve but we don’t apply the time and effort necessary to draw up plans of the final product. We don’t write down and share our vision with our partners and staff.

When this happens, everyone gets busy building something that they envision as the final product but usually each version differs from the original concept.

Just as carpenters need plans to follow, your employees need clear and concise directions to follow in order for them to be truly successful. If they don’t have clarity about what is expected of them, they will imagine what they think you are looking for. Sometimes they will get it right but most times you, as their leader, will

bimonthly dances at the Brunswick Street senior centre.

“We just want to take this opportunity to thank our many friends for including us and for giving us a dance now and then even though they know Gary’s agility is limited due to his stroke. We love you for always greeting us at the dance when we walk in and extending us a hand in friendship. You have no idea what that does for both of us. We are both anxious to get back to our dancing.

“If it wasn’t for our family and friends, our life would be pretty empty. Friends like John Broderick and all the other Old Time Fiddlers as well as Angie, Jean, Marie and Henry and everyone else at the Brunswick Street senior centre. We miss seeing all of you.”

be frustrated. Developing systems that provide direction, checks and balances for accountability and feedback, help to ensure that everyone is on the same page. This leads to less stress and better outcomes.

If you are tired of tearing down walls because someone built them wrong, frustrated because you are floundering, disillusioned, or not achieving results in your personal or professional life, you can change that! I love this quote from Jim Rohnor: “If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.”

If you want better outcomes, starts by creating a written plan for your life and your business, and coming up with specific actions on how to achieve it. Failure to do so will result in plans that go sideways and outcomes you do not want.

DAVE FULLER

Submitted photo

May and Gary Parrish in the backyard of their Prince George home.

CL ASSIF IEDS

In Memoriam

In Loving Memory

Beatrice Evelyn Dezell (nee Hendrie)

July 7, 1908 - March 6, 2014

On this the 6th year anniversary of our loss we affectionately remember our Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother.

Gramma Bea or GG as she was lovingly called by her grandchildren was the centre of our large family and we all learned from her, from her amazing optimism and her cheerfulness. As one of her grandchildren said, “GG was the only person I know who had a good time during the Great Depression!”. She had an unmatched ability to make friends wherever she went and with whomever she met. Years later she would be getting letters and Christmas Cards from people she had met briefly on a plane or bus.

She was the ideal Grandmother, keeping the children safe but holding them on a very loose tether and allowing them to explore and challenge themselves so they could be independent and strong. She was also careful not to tell the parents (her children) of all the adventures that she encouraged and participated in fully!

She was a remarkable, very optimistic, and highly intelligent person who witnessed some of the great events of the 20th Century from WW1 to the Spanish Flu, from the Roaring Twenties through the Great Depression and then WW2. Through all this she not only survived but prospered, raising a family and contributing significantly to everywhere she lived. Even after her husband Garvin passed in 1972 she continued to show that cheer, determination and character which we all admired. We all still miss her but try to make her proud in our own lives.

Lovingly submitted by the Dezell, Rustad, Roth, and Dos Santos families.

REMEMBRANCES

LEONARD JOSEPH DUPERRON

We are sad to announce the passing of Leonard Joseph Duperron. Born July 16th, 1927 passed June 27th, 2020. Survived by Sons; Gilbert (Leslie), Alvin (Bernice), Ronald (Kim), Conrad (Marquita). Daughter Estelle. 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Also survived by 2 sisters and 2 brothers, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Due to Covid we are limited to immediate family only at the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.

Marion Van Caeseele

Aug 2, 1933Jun 26, 2020

Marion Van Caeseele, age 86 of Prince George, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2020. Born August 2, 1933, in Churchbridge, SK, she is predeceased by her parents, Lawrence and Elizabeth Sauser, and her late husband of 59 years, Maurice Van Caeseele.

Marion is survived by six children, Gerald (Corina), Joan (Ray), Marilyn (Dave), Neil (Norma), Shelley (Brian) and Gloria (Frank). She was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Marion grew up and attended school in the small town of Churchbridge, Saskatchewan. She met Maurice at a wedding dance and they were married 5 years later in 1956. They moved to Prince George, B.C. shortly after their wedding where they resided in the same house on Wainwright Street for the next 60 years.

Maurice and Marion were founding members of St. Mary’s Catholic parish. She was also a 60-year charter member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) at St. Mary’s.

Volunteerism was very important to Marion. She spent time as a Brownie leader and volunteered with the Boy Scouts and the Girl Guides. Marion was particularly proud of her Canadian Red Cross award for her 25 years of volunteer service at the Prince George blood donor clinic. She also enjoyed her 27 years with the Prince George Good Cheer club.

Travel was also one of Marion’s favorite activities. She and Maurice travelled to Europe, Australia, Alaska and across Canada. She particularly enjoyed spending time in warm destinations (Cuba, Hawaii and Mexico). Annual trips to see relatives on the prairies were also a highlight.

Marion moved to Parkside Care Facility three years ago. She enjoyed the many recreational activities and always looked forward to her many visitors. The care she received at Parkside was exemplary for which the family is profoundly grateful.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Drs. P. Ducharme and D. York for their many years of compassionate medical support.

A private family service will be held at St. Mary’s Parish at a later date.

Marie Beaulieu

With heavy hearts we mourn the loss of our Mom. Marie Beaulieu passed away on June 27, 2020. Mom was predeceased by her beloved husband Leon in 2015. She leaves behind her children Bernadette (Derrick), Loretta, Sharon, Allan (Lorna) as well as her 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Mom loved spending time with her family and friends, going for walks and volunteering at the Hospital Auxiliary! She was always one of the first people to offer help! She will be missed. Due to covid-19, Moms funeral service will be limited, please contact the family for info.

Gone but not forgotten, forever missed.

Raymond Kristian Sept 3, 1933 - June 25, 2020 (86)

Survived by his wife Arna of 64 yr, 11 mo. Children, Bonnie (Brock) Squire, Diane Jansen Predeceased by son Guy on Aug 14, 2019 Grandchildren, Ashleigh & Brett Harris, Julian & Chanel Squire, Zakary & Dylan Kristian. Many brothers, sisters, brother-in-law & family.

In memory of Guy Kristian Sept 20, 1968 -Aug 14, 2019 (50) To one, no longer with us but in our hearts still lives.

R0011824800

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PGC002017

Phipps,JoyA. November12,1932-June11,2020

Obituaries

LAUREL PHIPPS

Richard Lionel Brown

October 29 1979June 28th 2020

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Lionel Brown announce his sudden passing after a brief illness on Sunday June 28th 2020 at the age of 40. Richard will be lovingly remembered by his best friend and fiance Angela their precious fur babies Peanut, Porter Mr. Jinx and Lucy, by his loving mother Irene, his sisters Lee-anne (Shawn, Jayce, Vaughn) and Tracy (Brian, Malcolm). Richard will also be forever remembered and loved by his numerous uncles, aunties, cousins and friends. Richard was predeceased by his uncle Ernest. Richard was born in Prince George BC in 1979, the youngest of three and the only boy. He moved to Kelowna BC in 1991 with his mother and graduated from KLO Secondary School in 1998. After High School Richard attended BCIT and received his Red Seal journeyman ticket in Sheet Metal. Around 2006 Richard move back to Prince George eventually falling in love and starting his family of fur babies! Richard loved his career, going to the lake property, camping in his RV and hanging out building stuff with his brother-in-law Shawn. Richard was full of life, he liked to listen to music full blast, drive his truck hard and dance and sing with Angela. His crooked grin will be forever remembered and missed. Memorial donations in memory of Richard can be made to the pancreas Center of BC.

Debra Ellaine Bragg

June 1, 1957 - May 24, 2020

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Debra Ellaine Bragg on May 24, 2020 at age 62, following a 2.5 year battle with cancer. Debra travelled her journey with an unspeakable amount of confidence, strength and bravery, and will always be remembered as an inspiration to all who knew her. Her generous spirit and unquestionable love shows us that angels really do walk the earth.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband and best friend of 33 years Wayne; daughter Christine (Michael); grandson and “Her Little Buddy” David; sister Michelle; and numerous other relatives and friends, who she loved dearly. She was predeceased by her mother Doris; father Lorne; sister Dawn; and son Michael.

The family would like to say a special thank you to the BC Cancer Centre oncology team and the doctors and nursing staff at UHNBC for their kind and compassionate care during Debra’s last days. Your support and guidance during this difficult time will never be forgotten.

There will be no service, as per Debra’s request. As an expression of sympathy, memorial tributes may be made directly to your favorite charity in Debra’s name.

“Jim” James Raymond Mooreside

Dec 13, 1940June 22, 2020

Born in Vancouver, Jim was a longtime resident of Quesnel, BC. Three years ago Jim and his wife Alice moved to Prince George where he led a very active life. He played bridge three times a week, had season tickets to the Spruce Kings, and went to many Cougar games. He enjoyed attending live events whether it was theater, music or a community celebration. He loved camping, fishing and downhill skiing, and he always had a project on the go. Most of all he loved spending time with his kids and grandkids. He will be greatly missed. Special thank you to everyone in the healthcare system that helped him.

Ramsauer,Emil

March27,1937-June26,2020

Itiswithsaddenedheartsthatweannouncethepassing ofEmilRamsauer.EmilwasborninSwitzerlandinthe townofSchwellbrunn,Kt.App.AR,onMarch27,1937. HepassedawayathomeonJune26,2020afterabrief butaggressiveillness.Hewaspredeceasedbyhis belovedwifePenny(nee:Wheeler)after34yearsof marriageonOctober21,1998.Emilissurvivedbyhis daughtersHeidi(Paul),Suset,andAlice(Gerry)andfour grandchildrenKyle,Paige,RoseandOwen.Hisconstant presenceandconsummatewisdomwillbeprofoundly missed HisfamilyisproudtosayEmillivedashewantedand passedfromthisworldthesameway.Emilcameto CanadafromSwitzerlandin1959whereheworkedina multitudeoftradesfrombricklayingtothelogging industry.HeeventuallycametothePrinceGeorgearea wherehemetandmarriedPenny.Theycreatedalife togetherandbeganafamily.Emil’sskillsandloveof learningbroughthimtoacareerinheavydutymechanics whenhebeganworkingforBabineMack.Hemaybe rememberedforbeingoneoftheonlyemployeestocross countryskitowork!EmilworkedforMackTrucksfor over20yearswhenhebranchedoutonhisownandbuilt asuccessfulandloyalfollowingofclientsincluding PapasonHoldings,THRTrucking,inadditiontoother familybasedtruckingcompanies.Itwarmsourheartsto knowthatthekidsofhisloyalcustomerswerealsoloyal toEmil’s"CookieCan".Emilwasaverypracticaland caringmanwhotaughteveryonethatthetimeittookdo somethingrightwasnottimewasted.EmilwasVERY proudofhisdaughterswhoweretaughtfromayoung agethathardworkwouldgetyouwhereyouwanttobe. Emil’shobbiesincludedwork!Helovedbeingaheavy dutymechanicandcouldanddidfixanything.Inhis youngerdaysEmiladoredHeli-skiinglongbeforeit becamepopular(andoutrageouslyexpensive)andskied over100,000verticalfeetononeofhistrips.Ultimately Emilwasaterrificplannerandanoutstandingprovider. Hiscareandthoughtfulnesstowardsthepeopleheloved wasconstantandenduringofanydistance.Hespentthe last60+yearslivinginPrinceGeorgeandhadthe opportunitytomeetanddeeplyaffectmanylives.Emil alsohadanamazingsidekick,Tova,hisVizsladog,who wasalwaysaccommodatingtolunches,napsandputting therunonthe’Holstein’coloredcatthattriedtoenjoythe gardensEmilkept. Emil’scalmingandeventemperedpresencewillbedeeply missedbyeverypersonwho’slifehetouched. ThefamilyisgratefultoDr.S.Mannandthestaffof UHNBCbyhelpingtofulfilhiswishes. AservicewillbeheldatPGFuneralHomeonJuly11, 2020at11:00am.TheFamilywillbehonoringthe limitationssetoutbyCovid-19andfollowingsocial distancepracticesinregardstoaccommodationsand seating.InlieuofflowerspleasedonatetotheRedCross oracharitythatisclosetoyourfamily’sheart,Thankyou. Emilsaidmany,manytimes,withdeepsinceritythepast fewmonths"MyLifeWasBeautiful!"

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Bedroom/Bedding

Emergency Management Program Coordinator

Objective: As part of the Tl’azt’en Nation, the Emergency Management Program Coordinator will assist communities within the Tl’azt’en Nation with Emergencies and disasters preparedness.

Key Accountabilities:

• Work closely with communities to ensure supports are in place to implement programming related to Emergencies programming.

• Support leadership in developing and implementing a strategic direction for emergency response also incorporating mental health and wellness

• Identify needs and pathways of communications

• Supports reporting, ensures budgets are aligned with community activities, and tracks, identiﬁes and applies to external funding opportunities

• Support the planning, implementation, and evaluation of community activities and work plan, and supports longer-term Nation planning (e.g., facilitation)

• Policy development

Qualiﬁcations:

• Policy development

Qualiﬁcations:

• A two (2) year diploma from a recognized post-secondary institution in emergency management, supplemented by courses in emergency preparedness including risk assessment and emergency management.

• Minimum of three (3) years directly related experience including serving as an emergency management professional, preferably with some time in a local government setting.

Tl’azt’en Nation is seeking a full time Community Health Services Manager

• Minimum of three (3) years directly related experience including serving as an emergency management professional, preferably with some time in a local government setting.

• Thorough knowledge of the BC Emergency Management and Incident Command Systems, and the roles and responsibilities of the local authority under the BC Emergency Program Act.

• Team leader/ project manager experience in developing and delivering comprehensive training packages, including evaluation mechanisms.

• Thorough knowledge of the BC Emergency Management and Incident Command Systems, and the roles and responsibilities of the local authority under the BC Emergency Program Act.

• Strong interpersonal, leadership and conﬂict resolution skills with the ability to maintain a volunteer program. Critical Incident Stress Debrieﬁng training would be an asset.

• Team leader/ project manager experience in developing and delivering comprehensive training packages, including evaluation mechanisms.

• Standard First Aid.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Strong interpersonal, leadership and conﬂict resolution skills with the ability to maintain a volunteer program. Critical Incident Stress Debrieﬁng training would be an asset.

• Standard First Aid.

• Experience and training in emergency management, the British Columbia Emergency Management System (BCEMS), and Incident Command System (ICS) is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• This position requires reasonable ﬂexibility in work hours to support emergency operations center training and activations.

• Experience and training in emergency management, the British Columbia Emergency Management System (BCEMS), and Incident Command System (ICS) is an asset.

• Strong assessment skills relevant to the context of local Indigenous history, beliefs, and practices.

• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Tl’azt’en tradition and culture.

Tl’azt’en Nation is seeking a dynamic individual to engage our community in positive health and wellness leadership as Manager of Community Health Services. The successful candidate will be a key member of our Senior Leadership Team and shape the future of the department through implementation of the Community’s Health Plan. The ideal candidate is motivated, a self-starter, strong planner, community minded, team oriented ready to step up and provide excellence in service to our community. You are an experienced senior level manager with knowledge and experience in primary care models of health, accreditation, service delivery, budgeting, management of staﬀ and services, and the ability to be a strong mentor and coach.

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of the Nation and the directive of Community Health Services (CHS), patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at CHS, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Qualiﬁcations and Experience:

• A minimum of a graduate degree in a related ﬁeld (eg; health care administration, health care leadership, public health, social services etc.).

• Recent experience working with First Nation clients in rural, remote, and on-reserve communities.

• This position requires reasonable ﬂexibility in work hours to support emergency operations center training and activations.

• Ability to work independently and in a multi-disciplinary team.

• Strong assessment skills relevant to the context of local Indigenous history, beliefs, and practices.

• A minimum of a graduate degree in a related ﬁeld (eg; health care administration, health care leadership, public health, social services etc.).

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership in primary health care and/or working with a similar context relatable to the Community Health Services such as Social Services or Public Health.

• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Tl’azt’en tradition and culture.

• Demonstrates strong interpersonal, organizational and time management skills.

• Recent experience working with First Nation clients in rural, remote, and on-reserve communities.

• Functional in Microsoft Oﬃce: MSWord, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher.

• Hold a valid drivers’ license with a clean drivers’ abstract.

• Ability to work independently and in a multi-disciplinary team.

• Demonstrates strong interpersonal, organizational and time management skills.

• Consent to a comprehensive criminal record check with clearance is required.

• Functional in Microsoft Oﬃce: MSWord, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher.

• Hold a valid drivers’ license with a clean drivers’ abstract.

• Consent to a comprehensive criminal record check with clearance is required.

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership in primary health care and/or working with a similar context relatable to the Community Health Services such as Social Services or Public Health.

• Signiﬁcant understanding and experience working with First Nation’s communities and organizations.

For full details visit: http://tlaztennation.ca/employment/

• Significant understanding and experience working with First Nation’s communities and organizations. For full details visit: http://tlaztennation.ca/employment/ Offering competitive wage and benefits package. Position open until filled. Please submit your cover letter and resume outlining how you meet these qualifications. Successful candidates will be contacted for an interview. Proof of certifications required prior to

Offering competitive wage and benefits package. Position open until filled. Please submit your cover letter and resume outlining how you meet these qualifications. Successful candidates will be contacted

Attn: Charlene Tom careers@tlazten.bc.ca

EMPLOYMENT

Tl’azt’en

Nation is seeking a full time

Economic Development Oﬃcer

Tl’azt’en Nation is seeking a full time Economic Development Oﬃcer

Department: Economic Development

The economic development oﬃcer (EDO) is responsible for planning, developing, coordinating and implementing economic development policies, strategies, and initiatives that improve the community, socioeconomic, and business development in Tl’azten Nation.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The economic development officer is responsible for continuously developing and maintaining knowledge required to do the job by understanding, embracing, and contributing to the community’s economic development plan. As an approach towards effective planning, by collaborating effectively to coordinate economic development for Tl’azt’en Nation.

• The EDO must be familiar with background materials and information relating to the Tl’azt’en Nation and the regional economy. Must demonstrate a non-political approach to communicate and foster relationships with government, industry and community members.

• He/she must use a variety of methods to perform assessments of economic development needs and opportunities, including maintaining an inventory of existing businesses, sector activities and current human resources (Labor force) in the community.

• The EDO must ensure that the Tl’azt’en Nation economic development initiatives and opportunities are communicated to key stakeholders.

RIDLEY TERMINALS INC.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Ridley Terminals Inc. is currently seeking the following positions for their marine bulk handling terminal, located on the north coast of BC, approximately 16 km from the City of Prince Rupert. Committed to a safe and healthy workplace, Ridley Terminals Inc. provides an excellent working environment for individuals who have a high degree of initiative.

Heavy Duty Mechanic

Permanent Full-Time

The successful candidate must have an Inter-Provincial ticket (Tradesman Qualifications with l/P standards) with experience in an industrial environment. Demonstrated evidence of troubleshooting experience in mechanical, hydraulics, electronics and pneumatics. Experience with Caterpillar equipment an asset.

Journeyman Millwright

Permanent Full-Time

• The EDO must demonstrate good written and oral communications skills that are relevant to prepare proposals for a variety of economic development initiatives for submissions to public and private funding sources. Must write project briefs, updates and ﬁnal reports for all project activities taking place in Tl’azt’en Nation.

• The EDO must ensure that the Tl’azt’en Nation economic development initiatives and opportunities are communicated to key stakeholders.

• The EDO must maintain a sound administrative and organizational system, develop budgets and cash ﬂow projections, use business planning software, and create presentations for community information sharing sessions. He/she must also develop and track accomplishments related to an ongoing work plan that will guide the work in Tl’azt’en.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCE:

• Ideally the candidate should possess a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in business or economic development related positions, supplemented by education, training or on-the-job learning. Tl’azt’en Nation will also consider candidates that may not meet the above qualiﬁcations but demonstrates a willingness to learn and develop the required skills.

** Class 5 Driver’s License is mandatory and own vehicle an asset.

Interested Candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter by June 26, 2020

Attention: Renata Monk, Executive Director renata.monk@tlazten.bc.ca or Fax: 250-648-3250

The successful candidate must have an Inter-Provincial ticket (Tradesman Qualifications with I/P standards). Minimum 5 years experience on an industrial site as a journeyman would be considered an asset. Troubleshooting experience in mechanical, hydraulics and pneumatics would be considered an asset. Candidates should have good welding and cutting skills as well as troubleshooting experience.

These positions offer a very competitive salary and benefits package. Tradesmen currently working a four day on, four day off schedule.

Ridley Terminals Inc. provides an excellent working environment. The ability to work with a team to achieve results is essential. Applicants should also have an excellent health, safety and environmental record.

For a complete job description go to: www.rti.ca. Qualified candidates are invited to mail their resumes by July 15, 2020 to: Ridley Terminals Inc.

P. O. Bag 8000, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 4H3 Attention: HR Manager Or by e-mail to: jobs@rti.ca

Ridley Terminals Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Individuals of Aboriginal descent are strongly encouraged to apply.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

Is it a good idea to buy a house with other people?

Are you tempted to buy a property with one or more other people so you can access the property market more cheaply? Admittedly, it’s an interesting concept. But think carefully before you get involved in this type of real estate transaction. Buying a house with your sister or a friend is a complex project that could easily become disastrous. Here are three tips to help things go smoothly.

1. CHOOSE YOUR PARTNERS CAREFULLY

Agreeing to share the responsibilities of a house with other people is like committing to a relationship. Even though everyone gets along perfectly now, no one can predict what will happen 5, 10 or 15 years down the road. So, you’re better off choosing partners that you know well and with whom you have already established a trusting relationship. After all, you won’t be able to just walk away from the project whenever you feel like it.

2. RELY ON EXPERTS

Start by using the services of a real estate broker who is familiar with how co-ownership works. Talk about the advantages and disadvantages. And be patient; it may take several weeks before you find a property that meets everyone’s needs. When you find a property that interests you, hire a certified home inspector for a full pre-purchase inspection report that can protect you in case of later dis-

putes. Lastly, choose a trustworthy notary or lawyer who will be able to guide you through the buying process.

3. PLAN FOR THE WORST-CASE SCENARIO

Should you buy a divided or undivided co-ownership property? Do you need to establish a co-ownership agreement? Your notary or lawyer can help you determine the best format. Even if you trust your partners completely, have a plan for the worst-case scenario. If one partner decides to leave, will you be responsible for his or her mortgage payments? Can you buy him out? What happens if one of you dies?

In short, buying a property with other people can be a great opportunity to become a property owner. Just keep both feet planted firmly on the ground so you can make informed decisions. And whatever happens, remember the adage that short reckonings make long friends.

How to save money with a professional inspection

You’ve visited the property a few times; you know a bit about construction and nothing abnormal has caught your eye. The house is practically new, so why waste a few hundred dollars having it inspected?

But consider this scenario: you’ve just mo ved into your new home, and a bout of heavy rain goes on for a while. You’re shocked to see water dripping through your bedroom ceiling. There was no indication such a problem existed; no stains or traces of mould. Even the roof, which you had inspected from ground level, seemed in perfect condition.

A home inspector might have detected a problem in the attic or roof before you bought the home. And even if he or she hadn’t seen anything apparent, the simple fact of having used his services allows you to demonstrate that you took all necessary precautions before buying. In this case, the seller could be held liable to pay for all the repair work.

By insisting on an inspection that makes the purchase conditional to your satisfaction, you give yourself some flexibility and open the door to negotiations. Are there cracks in the basement foundations? Some windows aren’t sealed properly? The heating system is defective? All necessary repair work can be used to negotiate the selling price,

especially if they were spotted by a certified inspector and you have his report to prove it.

A professional home inspection is the best way to protect yourself against hidden defects and other surprises that can occur when you least expect them. And in addition to giving you peace of mind, a professional inspection could help you to acquire the home of your dreams for less money. Why pass that up?

Proceed carefully when buying a property from a plan

Has a residential property development project caught your eye, and you’d love to buy one of the models? Everything seems right: the location, surroundings, materials, size of rooms and price. But be cautious about signing a pre-purchase contract based on a plan. You need to check a lot of details before buying a property that you’ve never laid eyes on.

Your first step is to ask about the developer, builder and architect. Do they have good reputations? How many years have they been in business? Are they accredited by a recognized association? Check their permits and licences and don’t hesitate to ask for references from previous clients.

Go to city hall to find out about other projects that are planned for the area where you want to live. Will there eventually be a park? A bigger road? Rental properties? Industrial buildings? Don’t rely exclusively on everything you’re told while visiting the show home. Do you feel pressured to sign

quickly? Never sign a preliminary contract before your notary or lawyer has checked it out first.

As a final precaution you can hire your own specialists to inspect your house or condo during every stage of the building process. They can check the quality of the soil, the excavation, foundations, framing and insulation, to name just a few things worth keeping tabs on. In other words, it’s a good idea to have objective experts looking after your interests, from breaking ground right through to the finishing details.

What does a “green” house look like?

If you believe a green home has to be built in the middle of the woods, think again. Many consumers are choosing to build eco-friendly homes in the city or the suburbs, in the heart of residential neighbourhoods and near all the services you need.

The three main features of an eco-friendly home:

1. A green home is more energy efficient. Good sun exposure and the quality of the insulation can reduce energy costs by at least 25 per cent.

2. An eco-friendly home is in harmony with its environment. The building plans take into account climate, soil quality, sunlight, wind, bodies of water, flora and fauna.

3. The building or renovating materials used have little impact on the environment. They are recycled and don’t produce any toxic fumes.

DID YOU KNOW?

Some real estate agents specialize in the sale of green properties. Their expertise can help you get answers to all your questions so you can make a wise choice.

Selling to family? Be cautious and clear

There’s nothing wrong with selling your property to a family member. Just be sure to exercise caution and be clear about all the details. If your family member expects the sale to be something like a donation in disguise, it can create a lot of friction and misunderstandings between you. It can also cause some inheritance problems bet ween siblings . The solution? Before selling, make sure that your family agrees with what you intend to do.

Are you ready to become a homeowner?

Congratulations! You’ve decided to buy a house. Owning a home is something to be proud of, but be careful. Are you really ready to be a homeowner? There’s a huge difference between the dream and reality.

To become a homeowner, you’ll have to make a down payment of between 5 and 20 per cent of the property’s price. And that’s not all; you also need to estimate any additional costs associated with the purchase, such as a home inspection, no tary or lawyer fees and legal expenses for the transfer of ownership. Generally, you should expect to pay about three per cent of the purchase price for these ad ditional expenses. Don’t forget to add in the property taxes and home insurance as well.

You’ll also have to take into ac count the costs of moving, renovations, utility connections (electricity, cable, Internet, etc.) and any maintenance. In other words, it’s important to

Carefully assess yourability to pay the mortgage, utilities and property taxes before buying a home.

evaluate your ability to pay before buying . Your current debt load will be a determining factor, so do your calculations carefully. Tip: before you start looking for your dream home, make an appointment with your financial institution to find out what level of mortgage loan they would give you. Of course, you don’t have to do this, but it can help you target properties in the price range you can afford.

Lastly, don’t forget that even though home ownership is a great way to build capital, you’ll have to find the time, energy and money to take care of your home’s maintenance and repair work. If you’d prefer to use your savings and free time to see the world, you’d better think twice be fore signing.

Tips for buying property abroad

Many travellers and investors like the idea of having a holiday home abroad. Not only does the dream conjure images of sunny skies and warm temperatures, but it also promises less time spent searching for suitable rental units and hotel rooms. If you like to spend several weeks a year in a foreign country, buying a property may very well be to your advantage. Generally speaking, there is no need to be a citizen of a country in order to own property there. But do take into consideration the risks entailed in buying a home abroad.

The real estate market is different all over the world, and it can vary from one region to another within the same country. So, the first thing to do is find out about all the current laws concerning property ownership for foreigners. It’s a good idea to hire a notary or lawyer who lives there and knows all the ins and outs of purchase offers, sales contracts and title deeds in the local context. Talk to a local tax specialist who can provide information about your legal status where income tax and property taxes are concerned. Note that some

countries have passed conventions and agreements that ease the tax burden of foreign investors. In short, use the services of professionals no matter what the value of the property you’d like to buy.

Be prepared to shell out large sums of money up front. A local financial institution might require as much as a 40 per cent down payment in order for you to obtain a mortgage, and you might only be given one on the condition that you give your primary residence as collateral. Some financial institutions might also require you to use their other banking services (savings account, insurance, etc.) above and beyond the mortgage loan.

BEWARE OF REAL ESTATE SCAMS

The Web opens the door to all kinds of fraud, and real estate is no exception. Don’t buy a property sight unseen, whether you found it on the Internet, heard about it from a friend or learned about it from a real estate broker. Proceed carefully and, above all, never send money before you see the property and consult a notary or lawyer about the purchase.

buying a prefabricated home

Built inside, away from the elements, prefabricated homes are manufactured with precision, are solid and offer good value for your money. Here are ten buying tips:

5. Make a list of your needs before meeting with the seller.

6. Don’t sign anything before your notary or lawyer has examined the contract.

7. Make sure you understand what is included in the proposal and what is not.

8. Ask about quality of materials, gua rantees and delivery costs.

9. Have the plans checked by a building expert.

10. Hire an inspector to supervise the pouring of the foundations.

More and more consumers are attracted by the many advantages of prefabricated homes. Will you be one of them? Ten tips for