Prince George Citizen Februrary 11, 2021

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE/LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

PIANO MAN Barney Bentall performed on stage last week to pre-record his performance for Coldsnap’s Coldstream livestream show

Hospital thrift shop goes online

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Citizen staff

Closing the non-profit thrift store and gift shop due to the pandemic wasn’t easy. The University Hospital of Northern BC

Auxiliary was unable to continue to raise funds that purchased medical equipment and supported student bursaries at the College of New Caledonia and the University of Northern BC when safety protocols were set in place.

The gift shop located in the hospital lobby continues to be closed as access is restricted at the hospital due to the ongoing threat of the coronavirus.

There was a time in the summer when

NO TAX INCREASE FOR 2021

Citizen staff

City council voted Monday night to keep the city’s 2021 tax requisition the same as last year.

By a 6-3 vote, council approved using more than $3 million of its $6.1 million Safe Restart Fund grant to offset a proposed two per cent tax increase for the year. Coun. Kyle Sampson, who proposed the motion, said the feedback from the public has been clear – residents don’t want a tax increase this year

“There are people who are really struggling,” Sampson said. “It’s about buying some time and giving businesses and residents a break.”

However, Sampson said, he fully understands that using one-time funding to offset operating costs means council will face tough choices next year to keep the tax increase manageable

“This is a one-time fix,” he said.

The move leaves roughly half the Safe Restart grant remaining to manage other costs associated with the pandemic, he added.

Sampson’s sentiments were echoed by Mayor Lyn Hall and councillors Brian Skakun, Terri McConnachie, Frank Everett and Murry Krause.

McConnachie called the decision a “no-brainer.”

“We’re in the middle of a global pandemic and we need a break,” she said.

FUNDS on page 5 See HARD on page 5

ARTHUR WILLIAMS

WHAT:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

Public Hearings and City Council considerations of applications regarding:

•Proposed amendment to “City of Prince George Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8383, 2011”

•Proposed amendments to “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007”

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000018

WHEN:

Monday, February22, 2021

WHERE:

Council ChambersofCity Hall, 2nd Floor,1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC

PROPOSALS:

1. “City of Prince George Official Community Plan BylawNo. 8383, 2011, Amendment BylawNo. 9115, 2020” AND “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9116, 2020”

Applicant: L&M Engineering Ltd. for Kidd Real Estate Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. BC821509

Subject Property: 4114 Balsum Road

Time: 7:00 p.m.

The applications propose to amend the Official Community Plan and rezone the subject property located at 4114 Balsum Road to facilitate afuture six-lot subdivision consisting of amix of single-detached and two-unit housing

1.1 Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment BylawNo. 9115, 2020

BylawNo. 9115, 2020 proposes to amend “City of Prince George Official Community Plan BylawNo. 8383, 2011” as follows:

a) That “Schedule B-6: Future Land Use”, be amended by re-designating Lot A, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 23955 from Parksand Open Space to Neighbourhood Residential, as shown on Appendix “A”toBylawNo. 9115, 2020.

1.2 Zoning Amendment BylawNo. 9116, 2020

BylawNo. 9116, 2020 proposes to amend “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007” as follows:

a) That Lot A, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 23955, be rezoned from P1: Parksand Recreation to RT1: Two-Unit Residential and RS2: Single Residential, as shown on Appendix “A”toBylawNo. 9116, 2020.

The proposed Bylaws apply to the property legally described Lot A, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 23955 as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #1 below.

Location Map #1 4114 Balsum Road

2. “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9164, 2020”

Applicant: Joe Postnikoff for Volling Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. 122893

Subject Properties: 6499-6437 HartHighway

Time: 7:00 p.m.

BylawNo. 9164, 2020 proposes to rezone the subject properties from C2: Regional Commercial to C2c: Regional Commercial, as shown on Appendix “A”toBylaw No. 9164, 2020.

The purpose of this application is to facilitate the sale of retail cannabis in an existing building on the subject properties, or other uses, pursuant to the proposed C2c: Regional Commercial zoning designation(s).

The proposed Bylawapplies to the properties legally described as Lot 1, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 15861, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #2 below

2.1 Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000018

Applicant: Joe Postnikoff for Grasshopper Retail Inc.

Subject Property: 6473 HartHighway

Time: 7:00 p.m.

The applicant has applied to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for aCannabis Licence for anon-medical retail cannabis store, located within aportion of an existing building on the subject property.The applicant has successfully completed the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch financial integrity check and security screening for a non-medical cannabis retail store.

The proposed hoursofservice are: MondaytoSunday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The Cannabis Licence Application applies to the property legally described as Lot 1, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 15861, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #2 below.

In addition, the applicant has applied to amend “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007” to rezone the subject property from C2: Regional Commercial to C2c: Regional Commercial. The C2c: Regional Commercial zone would permit “Retail Cannabis” as aprincipal use.

City Council considered first two readings of “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9164, 2020” at their meeting held on February8,2021. Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000018 will be considered concurrently with proposed BylawNo. 9164, 2020 on February22, 2021. It is recommended that City Council’ssupportofthe Cannabis Licence Application be subject to the adoption of proposed BylawNo. 9164, 2020.

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

Location Map #2

6499-6437 HartHighway

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

3. “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9182, 2021”

Applicant: City of Prince George

Time: 6:00 p.m.

BylawNo. 9182, 2021 proposes to amend the “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007” as follows:

a. That anew Section “15.21 –Z21: Integrated Health and Housing” be added to “Section 15 –Site Specific Zone”, to facilitate asite specific zone for health services and housing uses within the City of Prince George.

The purpose of the application is to facilitate adevelopment site that integrates housing and health service uses on the properties located at 805 /855 1st Avenue and 190 Ontario Street.

4. “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9138, 2020”

Applicant: M’akola Development Services for Trustees of the Congregation of Trinity United Church, In Trust

Subject Properties:

606, 614, 622 Zelkwas Avenue

Time: 6:00 p.m.

BylawNo. 9138, 2020 proposes to amend the “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007” as follows:

a. that the subject properties be rezoned from P2: Minor Institutional to RM3: Multiple Residential, as shown on Appendix “A”toBylawNo. 9138, 2020; and

b. that Section 10.11.2 –“Principal Uses”: “RM3: Multiple Residential” be amended by inserting the words “Housing Supportive only on Lots 1-3, District Lot 937, Cariboo District, Plan 18167.”

The purpose of this application is to facilitate anon-profit, supportive and second stage housing development on the subject properties, or other uses, pursuant to the proposed RM3: Multiple Residential zoning designation(s).

The proposed Bylawapplies to the properties legally described as Lots 1-3, District Lot 937, Cariboo District, Plan 18167, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #3 below.

Location Map #3 606, 614, 622 Zelkwas Avenue

HOWCAN IPROVIDE COMMENT?

Residents are invited to provide comment in writing or by telephone.

In accordance with ordersofthe Provincial Health Officer related to gatherings and events, membersofthe public are not permitted to attend City Council meetings and Public Hearings. These meetings are live streamed on the City’swebsite www.princegeorge.ca and the recordings are archived for viewing at anytime.

Pursuant to section 464(2) of the Local Government Act,City Council has waived the requirements for aPublic Hearing to be held respecting proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw

No. 9182, 2021 during the Regular Council Meeting held Monday, February8,2021.

Pursuant to Section 464(2) of the Local Government Act,City Council has waived the requirements for aPublic Hearing to be held respecting proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 9138, 2020 during the Regular Council Meeting held Monday, August 17, 2020.

Submissions in Writing

Residents are encouraged to provide written comments to Council to be included in the Council meeting agenda package and available for public viewing on the City’swebsite. Forsubmissions to be included on the agenda for Council’sreviewinadvance of the meeting date, theymust be received by the Corporate Officer no later than 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, February16, 2021.Submissions received after the noted deadline and before 3:00 p.m. Monday, February22, 2021,will be provided to Council on the dayofthe meeting for their consideration during deliberations on the application.

Submissions maybesent by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, faxed to (250)561-0183, mailed or delivered to the address noted below

Please note that written submissions for all applications will formpartofthe Council agenda, become public record and are posted on the City’swebsite. By making awritten submission you are consenting to the disclosure of anypersonal information that you provide.

Residents wishing to provide comments to Council on the following Bylaws and applications, maydosobysubmitting written correspondence:

•“City of Prince George Official Community Plan BylawNo. 8383, 2011, Amendment Bylaw No. 9115, 2020”;

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9116, 2020”;

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000018;

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9164, 2020”;

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9182, 2021”; and

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9138, 2020”.

Submissions by Telephone

In an efforttoprovide the public with options to speak to Council on Public Hearing applications and in accordance with the current Ministerial Order,the City now offers participation remotely via telephone during Public Hearings.

Residents can pre-register to speak to the proposed Bylaw(s) live via telephone. Preregistration will be open from 8:30 a.m., Thursday, February18, 2021 to Monday, February 22, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. To pre-register to speak to Council via phone, visit our website www.princegeorge.ca/publichearings to complete an online registration formorcall 311. If you miss pre-registering,please watch the online live meeting broadcast as there will be an opportunity for you to call in for alimited period of time.

Telephone submissions mayonly be received during Formal Public Hearings. Residents are invited to participate by telephone for the following application(s):

•“City of Prince George Official Community Plan BylawNo. 8383, 2011, Amendment Bylaw No. 9115, 2020”;

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9116, 2020”;

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000018;

•“City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9164, 2020”; Authority

Personal information is collected under the authority of section 26(g) and disclosed under the authority of section 33.1(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).

Forinformation or questions, contact the City’sFIPPACoordinator at (250)561-7600 or 1100

Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC, V2L 3V9.

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

Acopyofthe proposed Bylaws, applications and anyrelated documents will be available for reviewbythe public on the City’swebsite www.princegeorge.ca under ‘News and Notices’ beginning February10, 2021.These documents mayalso be reviewedatthe Development Services office on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on February10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 22, 2021, between the hoursof8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHO CAN ISPEAK TO?

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

Forquestions related to Public Hearing participation and procedures, please contact the Legislative Services Division by telephone (250)561-7793 or by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

VOLUNTEER WITH THE CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE

Makeadifference in your community!

The City is currently seeking residents interested in serving on the following Boards and Committees:

•Tourism Prince George Society Board of Directors– Two(2) Vacancies

The Board meets six times annually and is responsible for establishing the strategic direction for Tourism Prince George in order to best achieve its goals and to establish directives within the Board’spolicies.

The Board is seeking applicants with skill-sets, knowledge and expertise in the areas of governance and legal matters, along with specific tourism sector knowledge and sector-specific needs.

The City is accepting applications to fill two (2) vacancies for two-year terms beginning in April 2021 and ending in 2023. Applications from individuals with particular expertise, experience and representation in the following categories will be considered -clearly indicate on your application to which categoryyou are applying:

•Transportation -(1) vacancy available; and

•Food and Beverage –(1) vacancy available.

•Prince George Public LibraryBoard –One (1) Vacancy

The Board meets monthly and is responsible for providing libraryservices and programs in Prince George. Their workincludes the creation of policies, establishing goals and objectives of the library, and advocating for the libraryinthe greater community

The City is accepting applications to fill one (1) vacancy for the remainder of atermending November 30, 2022.

In accordance with the LibraryAct,applicants wishing to serve on the Prince George Public LibraryBoard must be either aresident or elector of the City of Prince George.

• AdvisoryCommittee on Accessibility –Four (4) Vacancies

This Committee meets monthly and is responsible for providing advice to City Council and soliciting feedback from the community on mattersthat affect persons with disabilities, seniors, and those with access challenges, including identification, removal and prevention of physical and social barriers. The Committee is actively involved in working with City Council to increase public awareness of the issues of accessibility and inclusion in the community

The City is accepting applications to fill four (4) vacancies for two-year terms beginning April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2023.

• AdvisoryCommittee on Development Design -Four (4) Vacancies

This Committee meets weekly,asneeded, to provide advice to City Council on mattersrespecting policies and guidelines affecting the City’sphysical/built environment as well as applications for development permits in accordance with the Committee TermsofReference. The Committee serves to encourage well-planned development in the city that considersthe areas of public health, safety,convenience, climate, accessibility and aesthetics.

Applications from individuals with particular expertise, experience and representation in the following categories will be considered -clearly indicate on your application to which categoryyou are applying:

•Landscape Professional representative;

•Professional engineer,orprofessional engineering representative associated with building construction and site development;

•Architectural or design representative associated with building construction and site development in the City of Prince George;

•Representative with experience in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED);

•Representative from the Canadian HomebuildersAssociation of NorthernBCorthe BC NorthernReal Estate Board;

•Representative from the Prince George Council of Seniors;

•Representative from the NorthernRegional Construction Association; or

•Public at Large.

The City is accepting applications to fill four (4) vacancies for two-year terms beginning April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2023.

Individuals interested in serving on these Boards or Committees must be available to attend regularly scheduled meetings (Monday-Friday, between the hoursof8:30 am and 5:00 pm) and be willing to actively participate in projects that the respective board/committee undertakes throughout the year

Information on these Boards and Committees including application forms and details on the application process are available on the City’swebsite (www.princegeorge.ca/committees) or maybepicked up in the Legislative Services Division, 5th Floor,City Hall.

Applications maybecompleted and submitted online (www.princegeorge.ca/committees), delivered to the Legislative Services Division, 5th Floor City Hall, at the address below,emailed to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, or faxed to (250) 561-0183.

Forany questions, or to have an application formmailed to you, please contact the Legislative Services Division at (250) 561-7655 or cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

St. Patrick’s Day was always a highlight for leprechaun Mike Bundock, centre, and for more than 25 years he would come around with his pot of gold candy to bring cheer to schools, hospitals, pubs and city businesses. Bundock died at age 88 on Jan. 26.

IRISH ICON PASSES AWAY

Born in Victoria 88 years ago as the son of a Dubliner, Mike Bundock’s Irish heritage was never far below the surface. He was the happy lepruchaun everybody wanted to catch whenever he donned his emerald green costume on St. Patrick’s Day to visit hospital patients, seniors residences, schools and city businesses.

His pot of gold was full of candy and he traded those sweets for smiles. Known for his caring, pleasant mannerisms, he was always willing to take on a new cause to try to find ways to make Prince George a better place to live.

Bundock died Jan 26 at UHNBC He’d been admitted two weeks earlier with breathing difficulties but his death was not attributed to COVID. Until that time he led a mostly healthy life as a husband and provider to Louise, his wife for 66 years, and their four children.

Never one to shy away from hard work, Bundock and his wife Louise had their own window-washing/janitorial service when they moved to Prince George in 1964, arriving just as the city’s pulp mill industry was getting established That led to a 26-year career as a painter at P.G. Pulp during his prime earning years and after retirement he worked 15 years for Regional Security,

primarily working on concert nights at CN Centre.

Bundock’s political ambitions led to two near-misses trying for a seat on city council as an alderman, in 1974 and 1978. He also took a run at a seat on the Fraser-Fort George Regional District board in 1977, finishing sixth in a race for five seats. He was always pushing for the city to improve its recreational facilities along Highway 16 and made that promise part of his election platforms. He put pressure on city council and eventually those ball diamonds were built, including Spruce City Stadium, which he helped build himself. He was a diehard fan and season-ticket holder of the Prince George Cougars and for years was a volunteer with the Mohawks and Spruce Kings hockey teams as a penalty timekeeper.

Softball was his passion and for 34 years he was one of the city’s top on-field officials, making the calls behind the plate in the men’s, women’s and youth softball leagues, serving as umpire-in-chief for the Prince George Umpires Association. He inspired his youngest son Richard to become a certified softball umpire, while Barb, Mike’s daughter and the eldest of the kids, became a provincial-level football referee.

Winterfest offers alternative

It’s not safe to celebrate the annual Downtown Winterfest this year so Downtown Prince George has come up with some suggestions on how to celebrate the city’s core safely this month.

Take a trip to a market, including the Prince George Farmers’ Market on Third Avenue or the Butler’s Market on Fourth Avenue. Discover the unique dining experiences including craft breweries, pubs, family dining or a cafe or lounge style establishment and there’s high end options as well. For family fun, there’s escape gaming, bowling and billiards, martial arts, a great

book store with lots of books from local authors or take an historic walk through the streets of downtown.

There is a Downtown Winterfest contest everyone is welcome to enter. While enjoying downtown and supporting the businesses find snowflakes or the Downtown Winter hashtag in the windows of participating businesses and take a selfie in front of five of those businesses, tag Downtown PG on Facebook or Instagram before Feb 14 and enter to win prizes worth $500, $250 and $100 worth of gift certificates to spend at downtown businesses. For more information visit www.downtownpg.com.

TED CLARKE

‘HARD YEAR FOR EVERYONE’

Restart grant, keeping roughly $4 million as “a safety net” for the future.

While each percentage point increase might have only made a roughly $25 difference to a typical home owner, it will provide more relief for the city’s businesses and industries, Skakun said

Those businesses and industries are the city’s major employers, Everett added.

Coun. Cori Ramsay proposed a compromise, which would have seen a one per cent tax levy increase.

Her motion was supported by councillors Garth Frizzell and Susan Scott.

Her proposal would have seen the city use roughly $2 million of the Safe

“There is no right answer,” she said. “If we go with zero per cent this year, it’s going to be tacked on next year To me, it feels unfair to burden taxpayers with a five per cent increase next year.”

It could take several years for the city’s revenues to return to normal and without that safety net council could be faced with choosing between significant tax hikes or significant service cuts over the next two years, Ramsay said.

“It’s been a hard year for everyone,” she said “(But) we don’t have to get to zero this year.”

Using up half of the city’s Safe

Restart money does nothing but “kick those increases down the road,” Frizzell said.

“Those percentages don’t go away,” he said “We approved the budget will go up 2.7 per cent. Now we’re trying to make budget using one-time money If we wanted to cut back 2.7 per cent, we had our chance. We’re going to have rainier days ahead.”

Council also voted against a proposal to hire two training officers for the city’s RCMP detachment, which would have added roughly $96,000 to the budget in 2021 and $365,000 in 2022 and beyond.

“At the right time, it would be the right thing to do,” Krause said. “But right now, it’s no.”

Funds go to equipment

COVID-19 numbers were low enough that the downtown thrift shop opened its doors temporarily as restrictions lifted but soon they made the decision to shut down again

“Most of our volunteers are in their late 60s, 70s and 80s and it just didn’t seem right for us to be welcoming people into the thrift shop,” Lindy Steele, auxiliary board president, said.

The auxiliary board decided something was better than nothing and since December the Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop became a virtual auction presence instead.

Sue Lorrie, hospital auxiliary vol-

unteer, took on the challenge of how to do it, reached out to the Prince George Hospice Society, which has a well-established online auction, got some tips from the organizer and she started the social media group.

Bid on items showcased on the Facebook page each week then pick up the item for cash outside of the Auxiliary’s Thrift Shop located at 1523 Third Avenue. It’s that easy.

So far the page has more than 700 members and raised more than $1,700.

Massive donations were offered in the summer when the thrift store had reopened temporarily so there are plenty of items to choose from and it will take a while before there’s anoth-

er call out for donations, Steele said.

There is a chance the thrift shop will reopen soon if restrictions are eased but right now no decisions have been made, she added.

“We’re still supporting the hospital and the funds raised will still go to medical equipment and bursaries and scholarships for students who are entering the medical program at CNC or UNBC,” Steele said

The Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop is completely run by volunteers so all proceeds go back into the community

Check out the online auction at The Thrift Shop Online Auction (Prince George) at https://www.facebook. com/groups/749715302570208.

First Nations seek school district audit

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The chiefs of the Lheidli T’enneh Nation and the McLeod Lake Indian Band want a closer look at how School District 57 (Prince George) is spending money earmarked for its Indigenous students.

In a statement, they say their communities have sent millions of dollars to SD 57 over the past two decades but the information they have received about how that money has been spent has been “anything but transparent, or stated with accountability.”

They say SD 57 has failed to live up to a requirement to report annually on how it has spent funds designated for on-reserve students They also want to know more about

how core funding for off-reserve students is being used. They also cite lower graduation rates for Indigenous students as a reason, saying the rate over the last five years has ranged from 39 to 52 per cent, compared to 67 to 79 per cent for SD 57 students as a whole.

Lheidli T’enneh Dayi Clay Pountney said an audit covering the last seven years would be reasonable.

In a response, SD 57 board chair Trent Derrick confirmed a letter seeking an audit has been received.

Derrick said the school district’s financial statements are audited and submitted to the Ministry of Education and, in the past few years, additional reporting on how targeted Indigenous funding received by SD 57 is spent was also provided.

Man sentenced for attack on senior

A man who attacked a 74-year-old woman during a violent home invasion has been sentenced to three years in jail

Philip Christopher Roy Wood, 38, was issued the term in provincial court in Prince George on counts of assault causing bodily harm, robbery and break and enter for a Sept. 12, 2019 incident.

Police were called to a unit in a downtown-area apartment building where they were told a lone male attacked the woman while she was asleep and then made off with a

small quantity of cash.

Wood was arrested a short distance away after officers, including a dog and handler, converged on the scene at about 3 a.m

The woman was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Wood was also issued a lifetime firearms ban and ordered to provide a DNA sample. He had spent a total of 186 days in custody prior to sentencing.

HOUSING FUNDRAISER TAKES TO STREETS

CHRISTINE HINZMANN

He started his drug and alcohol use at 15 years old and by 17 was in a detention centre in Victoria. Almost 20 years later, homeless and still deep in his crystal meth and heroine addiction, Brendan Elliott went to jail.

“I was still in the cycle of addiction but wanted to stop but I had no tools to do that,” Elliott said. “I had no supports - I had burned all my bridges.”

When AWAC, the Association for Women and Community, reached out to him while still incarcerated in Prince George, Elliott literally took the olive branch offered to him and went into AWAC’s transitional housing program.

“The team at Olive’s Branch is absolutely amazing and everyone there was geared toward my recovery and walked with me in my journey,” Elliott, now 38 years old, said. He’s been sober 20 months.

“After a year of sobriety they gave me a job,” Elliott said.

He works in the outreach office as a services administrator and this year is coordinating the Coldest Night of the Year event that shines a light on homelessness and raises funds to support the housing projects offered by AWAC.

“Every day I help people and it’s a dream,” Elliott said.

The Coldest Night of the Year is less a

group event and more of a walk in your own neighbourhood activity this year.

Because of the pandemic, the annual event scheduled for Feb. 20 will be held virtually and any group or individual can now pick any day this month to do the two to five kilometre walk to fit their schedule.

“We got a late start organizing the event but it’s not too late to participate,” Elliott said. Participants can plan a route around their neighbourhoods to walk at a safe social distance away from teammates or can coordinate a day and time to walk but do it individually.

Last year, the event raised more than $24,000 and the goal is to top that this year.

Proceeds of the fundraising effort goes to AWAC, which is a non-profit organization that began in 1994. At first, the AWAC mandate was to provide safe and supportive shelter for street-involved women and female youth.

As the culture changed over the years, there was a need to expand services to respond to an increase in the rate of homelessness for both men and women.

AWAC created programs around that, including the Housing First, Outreach, Housing Readiness and Olive’s Branch transitional housing program. The shelter is now open to men during the day and all programs apart from Housing Readiness is open to all genders. All programs at

AWAC provide clients with the opportunity to rebuild their lives through support using a nonjudgmental, trauma-informed approach.

The goal is to help people move from homelessness to independent living by offering various levels of supports throughout the different stages of housing.

Men’s supportive recovery is a program that takes in men that are homeless, possibly in addictions and receiving ministry assistance. It’s a low barrier housing program not abstinent based with few programs or obligations specifically guided towards giving the men opportunity for finding permanent residence either in the community or in the housing readiness program.

Housing Readiness is an abstinent-based program for both men and women. Housing Readiness is a more program-based housing option where clients work towards goals and permanent housing. It is a six-month program and most clients who complete it then move to the Victoria Towers housing program. The Victoria Towers program is a one-year abstinent-based program for both men and women.

Clients in the program are given independence while still being supported by the AWAC outreach team but the program is geared to helping them become more independent working towards finding a forever home.

Housing First is a community outreach program where the outreach team works with clients living in the community. This is usually more available for clients that are elderly, have mental limitations or mobility issues. This program helps clients by making appointments, advocating and getting groceries.

Olive’s Branch is the therapeutic community that is geared towards helping those suffering from a background of homelessness and addiction. It is a three-year program for both men and women. There are also many other clients in the community that benefit from services like help with errands, finding housing and rental supplements for those facing eviction to keep their current housing.

To help these programs keep going, people participating in the Coldest Night of the Year are invited to go live or post pictures on their social media account and tag #CNOY2021 or @AWACPrinceGeorge.

“This is an important event to help those who are homeless in our community,” Elliott said.

For more information, contact the local CNOY event directors Alanna at 250-6173037 or email alanna.lecerf@hotmail.com and Brendan at 250-562-6262 or email outreach@awaccommunityservices.org or visit the website at cnoy.org/location/ princegeorge.

Thieves targeting idling vehicles

Opportunistic thieves are taking advantage of the cold weather to steal vehicles left unattended while they are being warmed up, Prince George RCMP are warning.

“The Prince George RCMP strongly advises against making the choice to leave your vehicle running with the keys in the ignition, as it gives car thieves the opportunity to steal your car in mere seconds,” said Cst. Jennifer Cooper.

Cooper cited two incidents over the span of eight days.

The first occurred on Wed., Jan. 27 in a 3000-block Massey Drive parking lot where, shortly after 11:30 p.m., a woman was sitting in a friend’s car waiting for her own to warm up.

From there, she saw a man get out of a

nearby pickup truck, get into her vehicle and drive off.

It was found the next morning crashed into a ditch.

Cheven Schlitt, 26, has since been arrested and charged with possessing stolen property.

The second occurred shortly after midnight on Wed., Feb. 3, in a 1700 block Queensway Street parking lot where, within minutes of an employee of a nearby business leaving his vehicle idling, a woman hopped in and drove away.

With the help of video surveillance, police said they were able to find the vehicle a short distance away and arrest Nikita Teegee, 34.

Both Schlitt and Teegee have since been released pending future court dates.

PGSO unveils concert plans

Citizen staff

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra is hosting the beginning of its 50th anniversary season with three livestreaming concerts.

Last fall, the symphony hosted live chamber concerts for audiences of 50 people.

The plan for the 2021 spring season was to offer the same type of live music experience to patrons.

“But alas, COVID-19 has thrown a wrinkle into our plan and because of BC Health regulations, we are not able to present live concerts at this time,” Teresa Saunders, general manager, said in an email announcing the change.

“We plan to return to live concerts as soon as health regulations permit. However, in the meantime, we are pleased to announce three upcoming streamed concerts.”

On February 14 at 2 p.m., the Picturing Spring in Winter concert sees Maestro Michael Hall conduct two beautiful pieces for winds and strings.

The first, Siegfried Idyll by Richard Wagner, was written for his wife’s birthday and

was performed outside of her bedroom when she awoke on the morning of her birthday.

The second piece is thought to be one of the finest of compositions written for nine musicians: Nonet Op 139 by Josef Rheinberger.

On March 7 at 2 p.m., the symphony will perform Kinderconcert: String Beans for children between the ages of three and eight and all others who are young at heart.

Written and produced by well-known local musician Barb Parker, this concert promises to keep children spell-bound.

On March 13 at 7:30 p.m., the PGSO presents Baroque Hits! as Hall returns to conduct an all-strings concert featuring Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring by J.S. Bach, Canon and Gigue by Johann Pachelbel, Rondeau from Abdelazer by Henry Purcell, Sinfonia in G, R 149 by Antoni Vivaldi, and Holberg Suite by Edvard Grieg. Tickets for each concert are $20 per household and are now available at www. pgso.com or by phone at 562-0800 or at the PGSO office at 2880 – 15th Ave., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION

What: Notice of Consideration regarding Temporary Use Permit No. 238

When and Where:

1:30 p.m., Thursday,February 18, 2021 Regional District BoardRoom 155 George Street, Prince George BC

Owner:Avis Cook, Donald and Lynda Grant, Terry and Fiona Cook, Garry and Suzanne Enders, Robert and Elaine Buxton

Agent: Donald Grant

Proposal: The purpose of Temporary Use Permit No. 238 is to permit Preliminary Resource Processing use on the subject land for up to athree-year period. Zoning Bylaw No. 2892 defines Preliminary Resource Processing as the crushing, screening, washing, storing, packaging or other processing of rock, sand, gravel, aggregate or soil, originating on the same site and does not include asphalt plants or concrete plants. The subject property is The Fractional North West ¼OfDistrict Lot 924 Cariboo District Except Plans 2881, 7003, 26144 and H679. The property is located at 31924 Cariboo Hwy

Need moreinfo? Acopy of the proposed Permit and any relevant background materials areavailable for review by the public on the Regional District’swebsite at http://www rdffg.bc.ca/services/development/landuse-planning/current-applications/ or at the Regional District office, by appointment only, Monday through Friday,8:00 am to 4:30 pm, between February 1, and February 18, 2021. The Regional District Office will be closed on February 15, 2021. To make an appointment contact the Regional District at developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca or at 250-960-4400

Who can Ispeak to? Daniel Burke, Planner II, 250-960-4400

Environmental Assessment of the Cariboo Gold Project

Virtual Open House and Invitation to Comment

Barker ville Gold Mines Ltd. (BGM) proposes to develop an underground gold mine with a production capacity of 4,750 tonnes per day in and near the District of Wells, B.C. The ore is proposed to be milled at the existing Quesnel River mill, located 58 km southeast of Quesnel, B.C. Waste rock will be used as fill material at the mine site or stored at the existing Bonanza Ledge Mine, located near Barker ville, B.C. The project would also include an approximately 70 km transmission line to BC Hydro’s Barlow substation near Quesnel The proposed Cariboo Gold Project would have a proposed operating life of 16 years.

The Cariboo Gold Project is subject to review under British Columbia’s Environmental Assessment Act (2018). The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) is inviting the public and Indigenous nations to review the draft Process Order, Assessment Plan, Application Information Requirements, and Regulatory Coordination Plan and provide feedback to assist with the scoping of the proposed project and assessment.

These documents are part of the process planning phase, which formalize how the environmental assessment (EA) will be carried out for the Cariboo Gold Project, including:

• What information must be provided;

• How the information must be gathered;

• Who must be involved in the EA, and how they must be engaged; and

• The timing of each of the subsequent phases of the EA.

The EAO is inviting the public to the following virtual open houses, which will be held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated safety measures:

on: February 23, 2021 from: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PST

on: February 25, 2021 from: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PST

For details on how to connect to the open houses, please visit: https://projects.eao gov.bc.ca, click on ‘List of Projects,’ then search ‘Cariboo Gold.’

The open houses will include:

• A presentation by the EAO on the process planning phase of the EA process;

• A presentation by BGM on the proposed project; and

• An opportunity to ask questions online.

The EAO presentation will be available on the EAO’s website following the open houses.

A comment period on the Process Order, Assessment Plan, Application Information Requirements and the Regulatory Coordination Plan will be open for 30 days from February 16 to March 18, 2021 at midnight PST. All comments received during this comment period that meet the Public Comment Policy guidelines will be considered

The intention of seeking public comments is to ensure that potential effects –environmental, economic, social, cultural and health – that might result from the proposed project are identified for consideration and included in the EA process.

The EAO accepts comments:

• By Online Form: gov.bc.ca/eao - click ‘Commenting on Projects’

• By Mail: Katherine St James Project Assessment Director Environmental Assessment Office PO Box 9426 Stn Prov Govt Victoria BC V8W 9V1

• By Fax: 250-356-7477

The Process Order, Assessment Plan, Application Information Requirements, and the Regulatory Coordination Plan and other public engagement materials are available on the EAO’s website at: https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca, click on ‘List of Projects,’ then search: ‘Cariboo Gold.’

For more information on the environmental assessment process, visit: gov.bc.ca/eao

NOTE: All submissions received by EAO during the public comment period in relation to the Cariboo Gold Project are considered public and will be posted to the EAO’s website. All comments must adhere to the EAO’s public comment policy to be considered

UNBC lays off nine in face of budget challenge

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The University of Northern British Columbia will be shutting down its university advancement office, shedding nine jobs in the process, in an effort to pass a balanced budget for 2021-22.

The layoffs come into effect on April 1.

UNBC president Geoff Payne said the decision was strictly related to the budget and commended the performances of those affected.

“Their commitment to UNBC and their contributions have been outstanding,” Payne said. “This had nothing to do with their performances.”

The layoffs will save UNBC about $800,000. Exactly how much UNBC is in the red was not immediately available but Payne indicated it’s in the range of $2-4

million. The layoffs cover four exempt positions - including vice president Tim Tribe - and five unionized Two remaining positions will be transferred to the research and innovation office.

The university advancement office is responsible for fundraising, marketing, alumni relations, athletics, ceremonies and protocol.

All of those tasks will remain in some capacity but have been farmed out to other senior executives For example, communications and marketing will report to the president going forward.

Payne said the step was taken as part of a four-year plan launched last year to put UNBC on a more stable course The university is required must pass a balanced budget each fiscal year.

“UNBC continues to be in a structural

deficit position and we need to get a handle on that,” Payne said. “The levers that we would use in the past, such as deferred transfers or one-time funding, are not sustainable so we needed to make some tough choices.”

He said the university’s endowment fund remains healthy but cannot be used to balance the cost of its operations.

Despite the shortfall, UNBC’s Board of Governors decided last Friday to refrain from increasing tuition fees by two per cent, the maximum allowed under provincial legislation.

The hike would have added about $400,000 in revenue had it gone ahead, depending on the student count.

Enrollment at UNBC is holding steady in terms of head count, at 4,445 and up by 39 from last year, but down in terms of full-time equivalents, which stood at 3,654,

down 82.5.

“Really, it means we have more students taking less courses and I’m not surprised by that given that we’re in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Payne said “Taking five courses online is definitely a strain on students so they’re taking fewer courses.”

Asked for an update on the arbitration process that ended the job action by UNBC’s faculty association in December 2019, Payne said it still remains in play.

“We’re still working on that process,” he said. Payne said he remains a believer in UNBC.

“This is an outstanding school with outstanding people and if we can get a handle on our budget deficit, which we are doing...we will make sure that UNBC moves forward and is the institution that we all know it is.”

New program offers grants to build online stores

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The British Columbia government is introducing a new grant program to support small and medium-sized businesses in expanding or pivoting to online sales.

Ravi Kahlon, minister of jobs, economic recovery and innovation, says the government is investing $12 million to help about 1,500 businesses launch or upgrade online stores

A quarter of the funding will be reserved for Indigenous businesses and those outside the Lower Mainland and Greater Victoria.

“It’s a small fraction and I would challenge that rural and remote businesses are maybe more in need of online tools and accessing wider markets than potentially Lower Mainland-Greater Victoria businesses that have larger population densities at their doorstep,” Prince George and District Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd Corrigall said.

Nonetheless, he encouraged local businesses to apply and made note of the Digital Economy: Rapid Response + Resiliency Program (DER3) program offered through Hubspace in Prince George “If they’ve gone through the DER3 program, I suspect they have a pretty good chance of being approved for it because I do see these as partner-based programs,” Corrigall said. “But I think every business,

if they’re not considering moving to e-commerce, they should now consider it and see how much of that work they can offset through these funds.”

Applications for the new e-commerce grant are open online at launchonline.ca.

In a press release, B.C. Liberals jobs critic Todd Stone said only $12 million of the $300 million in grant money approved for small and medium-size businesses has been distributed as part of the province’s COVID-19 recovery plan.

Kahlon acknowledged there have been delays in getting some previously announced support funding out the door

He says the recovery grant program, which, for example, requires a two-step process that takes time, but there has been strong interest in the program with the province receiving about 4,000 new applications in the past few weeks

In December, the eligibility requirements for the grant program were loosened so that businesses must show a revenue drop of 30 per cent instead of 50 per cent since March and have been operating for 18 months, down from three years.

Kahlon has said that means businesses only need to have been in operation for nine months before the pandemic to apply for a grant

Qualifying businesses can receive grants from $10,000 to $30,000 through that program. Both programs end on March 31. - with files from The Canadian Press

CITY COUNCIL MADE RIGHT CALL

Aslow clap, please, for Prince George city council, ladies and gentlemen.

By a 6-3 vote, the mayor and councillors did the right thing Monday night, voting for a zero per cent tax increase for 2021.

City spending is actually increasing 2.7 per cent to cover inflationary costs.

Using $3 million of the $6.1 million the city received from the provincial government’s Safe Restart Fund will pay for the difference.

There should have been high-fives all around for a job well done

Instead, some councillors showered so much doom and gloom about the zero increase that they sounded like Vancouver Canucks fans.

“Rainier days ahead,” warned Coun. Garth Frizzell, who voted against the zero increase.

“To me, it feels unfair to burden taxpayers with a five per cent increase next year,” added Coun Cori Ramsay, who sided with Frizzell.

Frizzell and Ramsay are both on the finance and audit committee, the same finance and audit committee that somehow didn’t notice the parkade costs spiralling tens of millions of dollars out of control, so it’s hard to take either of them too seriously when they profess to be competent managers of the public purse.

Even Coun. Kyle Sampson, who proposed the zero increase motion, was sombre, calling the move “a one-time fix.”

This isn’t a one-time fix, it’s a one-time opportunity

What’s needed is some stiff-lipped leadership and can-do optimism that hard work and tough decisions by council and senior administration this year will deliver

more cost savings to prevent a big tax hike next year

The bulk of that work should fall on the new city manager

Whoever is hired for the job should be brimming with ideas and plans on how to quickly and effectively streamline local government operations.

Mayor and council will also need to screw their courage to the sticking place with some bold moves, such as permanently closing Four Seasons Pool and keeping the Elksentre and the Civic Centre closed until at least September.

They already made one tough call Monday night, voting against a proposal to hire two training officers for the city’s RCMP detachment.

That’s a good start

Furthermore, there are reasons for a positive outlook, despite the dour predictions

Another take on red tape

Last week, Williams Lake mayor Walter Cobb wrote a guest editorial in The Citizen, which started with the sentence: “Red tape and I don’t get along very well at all.”

It is a sentiment I would agree with, wholeheartedly And I think most people would agree with the idea

But I don’t think Mayor Cobb and I agree on what is meant by “red tape.”

If I am allowed to paraphrase his argument, red tape for him is the environmental assessment and approval process, which in his view is stifling the development of the proposed Prosperity Mine south of Williams Lake.

Prosperity is a huge potential project seeking to mine 5.3 billion pounds of copper and 13.3 million ounces of gold. With copper around $3.60 per pound and gold around $1,800 per ounce, the mining play is valued at close to $43 billion at today’s prices. With inflation, it could end up generating twice as much. That is a lot of money

From the perspective of the local economy, it would result in the employment of 550 people for 20 years, create even more spin off jobs, and add $340 million to the GDP each year, according to Mayor Cobb. It would appear to be hard to argue with those numbers.

But, in this case, the intent of the red tape is not to stop the project but to ensure it is carried out in an environmentally sound and responsible fashion. The original proposal included turning a local lake into a tailing pond, something many people in the area objected to. And it fell short in its consultations with the First Nations people on whose land the development would occur As such, and given the amount of money involved, it is perhaps not surprising the bureaucracy has been extra careful in going forward.

Is this red tape?

My definition of red tape is bureaucratic road blocks put in place for no discernible reason. Asking a developer in Prince George how his project might impact those living nearby seems a reasonable question. But, to use hyperbole, asking how it might affect the polar bear population is not.

This is not to say the polar bear population might not be affected. If the development significantly increases the carbon footprint of Prince George and Canada,

of Frizzell and Ramsay

Development activity remained strong in 2020 and show no sign of slowing down in 2021. There is also cautious optimism that, as vaccine distribution continues and COVID restrictions are gradually reduced, job growth and consumer spending will quickly revitalize the economy.

Hope is not a plan, of course.

And Frizzell and Ramsay may prove to be right without political and bureaucratic action in the next 12 months, before budget decisions for 2022 have to be made.

So while congratulations and thanks are in order for mayor and council for holding the line on property taxes for 2021, there is also much work ahead.

The outcome of those efforts will pay off, whatever happens in the local economy over the next year

Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout

then its climate impact might result in a diminished polar bear population. But it would be almost impossible to tease the effects of one project out from all the data on climate change.

Such a requirement would be an unnecessary bureaucratic road block with little or no discernible benefit.

Balancing the need to protect people and the ecosystem on the one hand and allow developments that might generate jobs and revenue on the other is a tricky business. And it doesn’t make it easy that big projects have to meet different objectives at different levels of government. However, it likely can’t be helped.

Canadian confederation has resulted in different responsibilities falling to the provincial and federal governments. Health care is a timely example. British Columbia doesn’t operate the same way as Alberta or Quebec. At the level of pandemic response, this has been a good thing. We have a total case load of 70,000 while those two provinces are at 126,000 and 268,000, respectively Our approach to COVID-19 has been different and, arguably, better than theirs.

At the federal level, the approach is different again. Our federal government is providing the medicine, albeit with some delays and false starts, but they are required to leave it up the provinces to de-

cide how to administer the vaccines, how to set their priorities, and for that matter, how to address the pandemic as a whole. Unlike, say, New Zealand, there hasn’t been a national shutdown nor mandatory mask wearing orders across the entire country.

Is this a result of red tape? No. It is because we are a confederation of provinces that constitute Canada and we all do things slightly differently The federal government has limited capacity to impose its will onto the provinces

When it comes to addressing the rights of First Nations or the concerns of environmental groups, the federal government has a larger role but, again, it is a distinct one from the provincial role or even the municipal role. Each level of government engages in part of the overall process in its own way

So, is this really red tape? Or is it each level of government doing what it is supposed to do – look out for the public interest?

I suspect there are many people who would disagree with my interpretation of red tape. Red tape makes it more difficult to get the things they think important done. And I agree that if bureaucratic rules don’t serve a purpose, they should be undone. But not all government processes are red tape.

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The power at your feet

There is a question I have been asking myself every day for much of my life, which I now realize is one of the keys to my happiness and good health: “Do I really need to drive to work today?”

I first began asking myself this question almost out of necessity when living in an overcrowded tropical city early in my career I’d always run or played sports almost every day, but I found that dodging pedestrians on crowded sidewalks just wasn’t a lot of fun, and I didn’t have access to regular sports programs. So, unless I had errands to run as part of my job, I began walking roughly three kilometres to and from work every day.

As I looked around, I realized that most of the local population was doing the same thing. I couldn’t help but notice as well that people seemed to find it odd that an obvious foreigner was walking with them, though no one seemed to mind

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

To be honest, I loved my commutes on cool tropical mornings, before the sun reached its peak. I worked at a home for street children and they loved it when we shared dinner together A nice walk after a big bowl of fufu and beans was just what the doctor ordered.

Returning to Canada, I tried to find a home within a comfortable walking distance to my place of work. This has been my daily routine for decades. Looking back, I see many that many advantages have come with this decision

First, I feel great physically Walking is not hard on the body, but it is wonderful exercise. Studies show that those who

choose active transport to commute to work are healthier To be honest, though I am approaching 60, my energy level feels the same as it did 30 years ago

Secondly, walking feels good. Regardless of the temperature, I feel invigorated when I get to work, and refreshed when I leave. This is not surprising; physical exercise also improves our mental health.

Thirdly, I know that my choices are having a positive impact on the environment. There is a satisfaction in knowing that we are simply doing the right thing. Taking care of our environment is what is best for our descendants and for our planet

Fourthly, what I am doing is very good for the economy The median age in Canada is increasing It will be a challenge for our young workers to sustain a large retired population. By making conscious choices to maintain my health, I can easily work past 65. It certainly benefits my employer to have experienced workers. I also allow those who want to retire or those

About those little comments…

As no two people are alike, this same principle applies to brain injury.

Every brain injury survivor has their own set of symptoms, methods of coping, treatments that work for them and different rates of recovery.

And all of this is dependant on a number of factors, such as location of injury in the brain, how quickly the injury was diagnosed, appropriate treatments and services that were available, at what age the injury occurred, secure housing, food security and adequate personal supports.

Through the Brain Injured Group (BIG), I have met many people who went for many years not knowing they had a brain injury. Twenty-plus years ago, survivors often went without medical intervention because brain injury awareness was not common knowledge back then. As a result, there were huge misunderstandings made that led to people dropping out of school, losing their jobs, and development of strained

BOGGLED

DIANE NAKAMURA

relationships with family and friends. I don’t assume that people purposely say hurtful things to survivors. But the emotional damage that is done because of thoughtless comments is significant. The culprits are family, friends and medical, social services and other professionals. Sadly, the folks that survivors count on for support are often the ones who tear us down. These are the types of comments that are made to us:

“It doesn’t look like you’re trying to get better.” “It must be nice to have someone come in and clean your house.” “You’re lucky you get paid to stay home.”

Seriously?

Most of us survivors already do a great

job of making ourselves feel worthless We honestly don’t need help in this department. So if you’re not prepared to say anything supportive or kind, please don’t say anything at all.

The negative comments prevent us from accessing professional help We also isolate ourselves from our loved ones or have limited contact with them. And we are the ones who are told to make extra efforts to get along with people. Small wonder we often hide from the world.

The truth about brain injury is that the impact on survivors is extremely varied. Some people recover quicker and their symptoms are temporary or have little lasting effects. For others, there is seemingly no progress and they are disabled for the rest of their lives. To compare one survivor’s journey to another is like comparing apples to oranges.

Brain scans only pick up fractured skulls and brain bleeds (strokes). Many are not aware that strokes cause brain injury

who need to retire the ability to do so

Finally, we have been told for generations by advertisers and the media that being seen in our vehicle is an important demonstration of our status in society I choose not to buy into this myth. By driving only when absolutely necessary, I buy less fuel, I decrease the cost of upkeep on my vehicle, and my car lasts longer. The bottom line is that driving less saves a significant amount of money.

I often hear people say: “I have to drive.” For some, this is true. Children need to be picked up and dropped off. Some drive because it is the safest way to get to and from work. Others do not live within walking distance from work or even near a bus stop. Many of us, however, could walk, ride a bicycle or take public transit if we chose to do so.

“Do I really need to drive?” It’s a simple question for us to ask. Quite often the answer is: “Today, I choose to walk.”

Brain scans cannot detect damaged neurons and receptors, which cause huge disruption to every aspect of functioning - from memory to walking. Just because the scans come back clear doesn’t mean a brain injury doesn’t exist

The medical professionals need to upgrade their tool bags. Last year, I went to see a specialist. I was in his office for all of 15 minutes. He told me: “Your scans came back normal so you’re fine. My recommendation is you go back to work. It’s not good for you to do nothing all day.”

It’s a good thing my feelings aren’t easily hurt. He obviously didn’t review my psychological reports or my testing scores

When I go out in public, I make certain I am dressed well so I make a good impression. Perhaps my thinking about this is wrong. Because brain injury is an invisible disability, people make assumptions based on what they see on the outside

Maybe I’ll start wearing a helmet. It will look cool with my mask

Three elements bring sales success

Like many entrepreneurs and sales professionals, I have been selling since I was a teenager. Over the years, I have hawked worms, newspapers and pins, chocolate bars and books door to door, knives and lamps on street corners, vitamins and herbs in retail and online, and eventually, advertising, as well as coaching services and training to companies.

I think I have been pretty good at it. In fact, I have to say that I love to sell, because if I can get a transaction right, I am matching a product or service with someone who is pleased to make a well-timed, suitable purchase.

While not everyone feels comfortable in sales, a career in sales can be very rewarding. Not only can you make a great living

in sales and provide for your family, the execution of successful sales can convey a sense of personal accomplishment and increased self-confidence. So, what are the keys to being successful in sales?

Treat others the way you would like to be treated. There is a sense of satisfaction when you develop a relationship with your customers in dealing honestly with them. In this way, we garner respect and people trust us When there is trust in a sales relationship, closing the sale is just a natural progression of respecting others and treating them just as we wish to be treated.

Know why you are selling. Without well-informed motivation, sales can be a struggle. My probabilities of success were best achieved when I clearly understood

why I was in sales. Perhaps it was a goal I had set for myself for the use of the money. Many times, I had to sell goods or services to cover my expenses and keep a roof over my head and that of my family Having clarity about what you want is paramount to being successful in sales.

Plan or fail. Many sales professionals fail because they don’t plan and if they do plan, they don’t follow through on their plans Making sales and hitting targets relies on having a plan and understanding the key tasks that determine success.

Successful sales people should know the exact profit on an average sale and the necessary number of sales needed to hit their targets. This will determine the amount of activity necessary for success. If you think

that you need to make 100 calls a week to hit your targets, that means you will have to be doing a minimum of 20 calls per day. Blocking time as well as being prepared and organized are keys to successful sales.

A career in sales can be fun and rewarding but it takes a positive mindset that enjoys challenges and creating solutions When we understand our reasons for selling, have a plan for success and are ready and to treat others the way we would like to be treated, our sales career will take off - Dave Fuller, MBA is the author of the book Profit Yourself Health and an award-winning Certified Professional Business Coach with the firm Pivotleader. Have a sales story to tell? Email dave@pivotleader.com

Modern techniques aid firefighters

CHRISTINE HINZMANN Citizen staff

When Assistant Fire Chief Dan Pears reported the details of a recent condo fire to the local news media recently, he described pressurizing the unit and using a piercing nozzle and a thermal imaging camera as weapons to combat the blaze.

“As far as the last 30 years of fire fighting, there’s been a lot more science involved,” Pears explained

So what are these techniques and devices and how do they work?

The piercing nozzle is a long, narrow nozzle that only makes a small hole.

It helps contain a fire while spraying water in a confined area, which makes it safer for firefighters as well.

“That’s good because it keeps separation between you and the fire and also gives you access to the fire without doing a whole bunch of damage,” Pears said.

“Eventually you have to open up the ceiling anyway but whenever you can keep a barrier between you and the fire, it’s always best. We don’t use the piercing nozzle a lot - it’s almost a specialty tool in some ways.”

Meanwhile, pressurizing a space uses the basic physics that when things heat up they expand to work against the fire

“So in a confined space, for example, a structure or house, it’s expanding because it’s in a confined area,” he said.

“So we’ll set a fan up in the doorway or window that we choose and pressurize the building. That creates greater pressure than the fire creates so that helps confine the fire to its area of origin.”

And the same principles are used wheth-

er it’s a house or a 10-storey apartment building.

“So we can direct a fire where we want it to go - out this window, out that door - by opening certain doors, closing certain windows and compartmentalizing it,” Pears said. “So that’s one of the biggest pieces of equipment we use - the fan, pressurization, and how we pressure ventilate to blow the fire out a window or keep it to a certain area.”

Thermal imaging cameras are also used. These are handheld cameras that give temperature readings.

“That helps us map out the area where the majority of the fire is,” Pears said.

In the last 25 to 30 years, the fans that help pressurize a building and the thermal imaging cameras are the two most important tools to help combat a fire most efficiently, he added

“Sometimes we’ll get to fires and we’ll actually start closing windows and doors,” he said.

“Back in the day we used to open everything up to get the smoke out of the building. Well, we’ve learned through theory and study and training how that can have a negative effect on how the fire can then go wherever it wants. So a lot of times we’re better off keeping it buttoned up for a bit.

“That way we can get a better read on things, walk around the building, the house - whatever it is, using thermal imaging, get a rough idea where the fire is and then we make a plan.

“It’s a lot more tactical, there’s a lot more science involved. Using today’s tools definitely makes for better outcomes and at the end of the day it’s all about putting the wet stuff on the red stuff.”

CITIZEN PHOTOS Top, firefighter Colton Mueller holds the piercing nozzle used to combat fire in a wall or ceiling.

Left, Assistant Fire Chief Dan Pears poses in front of a thermal imaging camera, one of the latest pieces of equipment used in fighting fire.

MLA Rustad draws fire for criticizing vaccine rollout

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative

Reporter

Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad is questioning the wisdom of B.C.’s COVID-19 vaccination strategy and has created a storm of controversy in the process.

In a series of comments on his Facebook page, posted in late January, Rustad said he was seeking an answer after learning constituents in Fort St. James 80 years and older had made appointments to get their shots only to see them canceled.

Rustad then said he would need to confirm this with Northern Health and added that if it is indeed the case, wonders “who makes the decision to continue to vaccinate an 18-year-old in the same community while not vaccinating a 90 year old with significant health challenges?”

“This makes no sense to me whatsoever and if this is the case someone needs to explain the rationale for making this decision.”

Rustad did not outright say so, but his comments were in reference to the pro-

vincial health office’s decision to include remote, rural Indigenous communities in the first vaccination phase.

Vaccinations in those communities are administered by the First Nations Health Authority.

According to a posting on the FNHA website, , a “whole community approach” is being taken that, due to limited quantities of vaccine, gives priority to older adults but also also says it is “better to send vaccines to the entire adult population of small, remote First Nations communities, rather than only to the Elders.”

Nak’azdli Whut’en, which is located adjacent to Fort St. James and has been hit hard by the virus, is among the communities to receive vaccinations during the first round.

Rustad’s first comment on the issue was posted on January 22, the same day the provincial health office made public its four phase strategy. While it states that those over 80 must wait until the second phase to get their shots, it also says all those living in long-term care homes or on

the waiting list for one are included in the first phase. Northern Health spokesperson Eryn Collins confirmed everyone in that group are getting vaccinated during the first phase.

Rustad’s initial posting, since deleted from his page, drew a flurry of comments including one from B.C. Assembly of First Nations regional chief Terry Teegee, who said nearly 36 per cent of people with confirmed cases are Indigenous despite making up less than 17 per cent of the region’s population. Teegee went on to accuse Rustad of making hateful and divisive comments without checking the facts.

“We don’t need these divisive comments, especially when people are dying,” Teegee said.

In a followup posting, Rustad acknowledged the controversy and, in seeking to clarify, repeated his initial concern.

“COVID19 is a real risk. Those at the highest risk are people over the age of 80 and especially those with underlying health issues. Therefore, the question that I am asking is straight forward: given the

risks and the level of outbreak in Fort St. James, why did vaccinations go ahead for a healthy, low risk age group when they were cancelled for the much higher risk group?”

In a response, the Ministry of Health provided an emailed statement saying the plan is focused on “those most vulnerable to severe illness and death first, reducing the likelihood of transmission in high-risk settings, and making sure that our health care system is protected and is able to operate efficiently.”

“We know many people in B.C are eager for their turn to be immunized. While vaccine supply is limited, we will continue to immunize people who are the most vulnerable to getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19, including those who live in remote and rural Indigenous communities.

“We know that indigenous peoples in general are at much greater risk of severe COVID-19 disease including death, and remoteness or geographical isolation increases their vulnerability and the impact that COVID-19 can have in these communities.”

STUDENTS HELP BRING TRADITION TO NEW FIRE HALL

CHRISTINE HINZMANN

Citizen staff

For more than 50 years, firefighters who passed their probation would write their names and the date in chalk in the hose tower at Fire Hall No. 1 in downtown Prince George.

To honour that tradition, Prince George Fire Rescue invited Duchess Park Secondary School students to help write every name from the old tower on the new fire hall’s hose tower walls

That’s about 250 names and there are another 50 names of firefighters that worked at the old fire hall that were included to commemorate their contributions as well.

“Our crews were extremely excited to move into the new, modern fire hall, but it was also a little sad to leave a few of the intangible parts of the old hall behind, particularly such a long-running tradition,” deputy fire chief Cliff Warner said. “We wanted to preserve some of the rich history and customs that began in the old building, so we reached out to the school district to see if teachers and students from nearby Duchess Park might work with us to bring the names and the tradition along with us

as we moved to the new hall.”

The project saw the transcription of all the names written in the old hose tower into the new building.

“While there has been an active Fire Rescue Service in Prince George for over 100 years, we really only have reliable records of firefighting staff going back about 70 years to 1950,” Warner said.

Soon after the new hall opened, students from Duchess Park’s Grade 12 Art Portfolio class started transcribing the names and dates of the fire fighters in black acrylic paint on the white walls of the new hose tower. It took six sessions that were two hours long.

The project saw 11 students add this real-world effort to their portfolios as they learned about social awareness while honouring the members of the local fire rescue.

The school district said they are looking to continue these kinds of collaborations with the City of Prince George as opportunities present themselves

“Our School District 57 students proudly contributed to facilitating this transition, showing care and respect for our City of

Topp, Duchess Park Grade 12 students Gabriella Vis, front, and Brenna Harasym do a few touchups on the hose tower wall at Fire Hall No. 1 on Massey Drive.

Above, Deputy Chief Cliff Warner of Prince George Fire Rescue points at his name and the date he passed his probation, which were recently added to the hose tower wall in city’s new Fire Hall No. 1 on Massey Drive.

Prince George firefighters,” Jaime Rose, the students’ art teacher, said. “This work is authentic and purposeful and gives meaning to the course curriculum. As students transferred historical elements from the old fire hall to the new one, they developed a greater understanding of how art is an essential element of culture and personal identity. Through their work the students also helped to ensure this new space felt welcoming and familiar to the staff members who had worked in the old building.”

Warner thanked the students for their contribution and presented each with an official letter of appreciation from the city and fire rescue.

“Both active and retired Fire Rescue members have toured the new tower and all are incredibly impressed and touched with the work these students did to help us preserve this special Prince George firefighter’s ritual,” Warner said. “Traditions like this really help to make the new fire hall into a home.”

HANDOUT PHOTO

Celebrating 65 years on Valentine’s Day

TED CLARKE

Marie and Laurent Bachand picked a fine time to get hitched.

They got married on Valentine’s Day in 1956 and while that might have seemed ideal from a romantic’s point of view back then Prince George winters could be downright mean and on that day the weather gods were certainly kind to them.

It was 43 below on the Fahrenheit scale when they tied the knot in the church of the Fyfe Lake Fir sawmill on the south of West Lake, about 30 kilometres southwest of Prince George. In those days, it wasn’t unusual to get married in the middle of the week A Catholic priest drove in to perform the Tuesday ceremony and Marie and Laurent had their meal and wedding cake and danced into early-morning hours mingling with the guests The entourage included each of their families from east-central Saskatchewan and the entire labour force of two neighbouring sawmills.

“It was cold, but as far as I can remember, nothing went wrong that day,” Marie said

Laurent’s brother and Marie’s brother, the best men in the wedding party, provided the escort for the newlyweds and at about 3 a.m they headed out in their vehicles traveling the icy narrow road into Prince George to make sure they arrived safely for their honeymoon at the Northern Lights Motel on Third Avenue. The plan was for Marie and Laurent to spend just one night there, but they woke up to -49 cold. There was no plug-in for their car and the battery was dead. It warmed up during the day but the weather turned nasty again and a blizzard dumped a foot of snow. All over the city, water lines were freezing, school buses shut down and ploughs struggled to clear the roads. They were stuck, but the room had a kitchen and they walked a half-mile to a food store and bought some groceries and made the most of it.

After two days in their room, Laurent was down to his last $17 and he was bound and determined to make it back to his jobsite and the cabin he had for himself and his new wife They got their car started

Laurent and Marie Bachand were a Valentine’s Day bride and groom in 1956 when they got married on a bone-chilling day at the Fyfe Lake Fir sawmill church near West Lake. They will be celebrating their 65th anniversary next Sunday along with their friends, five kids, 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

and made it as past what is now the turnoff to West Lake Provincial Park when they saw their path the last five kilometres to camp was blocked by a snow drift as deep as Laurent is tall. It was too far to walk so he put the tire chains on his car and slowly crawled up the long winding hill When he got to the top he was just about to take the chains off when he heard the sound of a bulldozer It was his brother Moe driving the big blade to clear the road and they made it back to camp safely.

That was 65 years ago. Next Sunday afternoon Laurent and Marie are going to celebrate their anniversary as best they can during these COVID times, with a drive-by celebration of well-wishers in the Home Depot parking lot.

They grew up distant neighbours in rural east-central Saskatchewan on the farms their parents had in a French-speaking part of the province between the village of Zenon Park and the town of Arborfield, about 200 kilometres east of Prince Albert

“I’ve known her since she was 11 years

old,” said Laurent. “We were about five miles apart but in them days you didn’t go five miles very often for any real reason. They lived by a creek there and there was a swimming hole and people came from all over to go swimming. I was about 14 and that’s where I seen here for the first time and I stayed in touch with her for years after that.

Laurent was just out of high school at age 16 when he decided to head west to work at his brother Henry’s sawmill at West Lake. He started out as a lumber slinger making $1.15 an hour No stranger to cold weather, he came to Prince George (pop. about 14,000) in 1950, a year in which still-standing records were set for some of the coldest days the city has ever experienced.

“The first few years I was here it was colder than a son of a (gun) in this town,” said Laurent. “Forty or 45 below and sometimes it lasted two bloody weeks It was so cold you couldn’t run that sawmill, you could barely keep the motors going. There

wasn’t much for electricity in them days, it was a struggle.”

Laurent, now 86, is 2 ½ years older than Marie, who turns 84 in March. She was 18 when they got married. In 1952 her parents started working in the Fyfe Lake Fir mill She came out for summers but they left her and her younger sister behind in a convent in Zenon Park because there was no school at West Lake.

Educated in French and English, Marie St. Amand graduated high school in the convent and was registered for nursing school in Saskatoon when the love bug bit. She came out to West Lake in the summer of ’55 to visit her folks and younger siblings and her romance with Laurent blossomed into a marriage proposal.

“We dated off and on for six or seven years before that but that was kids’ stuff,” Laurent said. “I had (marriage) in mind all along. It never got serious until I was 22. She was supposed to go back to nursing school in September and I talked her out of it and we got married in February.

“I asked her again just the other day if she was sorry she did that and she said, ‘No.’

Said Marie: “He’s an excellent husband It was just natural, I wouldn’t let anybody else have him. I used to be quite jealous.”

Marie and Laurent moved briefly to Vancouver and their two youngest were born there, and he built boats in a shipyard in New Westminster until the job shut down. He came back to Prince George in 1960 and bought a front-end loader and he was self-employed operating heavy equipment for 30 years before he retired at age 63.

“We’ve had a good life,” said Laurent. “She’s not hard to get along with.”

Marie was diagnosed with lung cancer last summer and she has her good days and her bad days. Her memory is failing her but she still likes to get up every day to greet her kids, eleven grandchildren and 18 grandchildren. For Marie, her kids are the most important thing in her world and when she can’t be with them she’s happy to spend her remaining days with her childhood sweetheart in their College Heights home.

B.C. resources helping to pave road to recovery

Glacier Media

The natural resources sector has helped B.C.’s economy fare better than economies elsewhere in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the industry could drive the province’s economic recovery – if government allows it to.

That is the message the sector presented at the 18th annual BC Natural Resources Forum, held January 26–28. Industry officials said a united front on globally promoting the province’s resources – forest products, minerals and energy – will be key to creating jobs while also setting a global example through B.C.’s industry practices on the environment, community engagement and innovation.

One sector showing its potential as an economic engine is the province’s forest industry, said Alexa Young, vice-president of government and public affairs at the BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI). Young, who noted that the sector benefited from people staying home more and opting to upgrade their dwellings during the pandemic, said the industry’s growth in 2020 is a potential road map for B.C.’s economic recovery.

“It’s the depth and breadth of forestry’s reach into B.C.’s economy that has driven [economic] continuity,” Young said. “This is an industry that supports 100,000 good-paying jobs. It’s in Vanderhoof and Campbell River for sure, but it’s also in our cities in Burnaby, Surrey and right here in Vancouver Companies are making machine parts and high-tech tools, delivering services and getting our products to market.

It extends to businesses you wouldn’t even think about, like catering companies.”

The forum’s opening panel – which included Young; Prince Rupert Port Authority president and CEO Shaun Stevenson; LNG Canada CEO Peter Zebedee; and Teck Resources vice-president of communities/ government affairs Amber Johnston-Billings – offered the public a glimpse of what B.C. natural resource sector officials have done to weather the COVID storm, as well as the industry’s future potential.

Outside of the natural resource sector’s response to COVID, both Johnston-Billings and Zebedee noted that B.C. commodities such as natural gas, copper and metallurgical coal produce a much smaller carbon footprint than those produced in other jurisdictions because of B.C.’s strict environ-

mental regulations and companies’ internal commitments. It’s an advantage, Zebedee said, that B.C. should be leveraging in the global market.

“[LNG Canada] is of course a showcase project that will export low-carbon natural gas to Asian markets that need it so, so badly,” Zebedee said. “We are working together with all levels of government … on a framework for us to get credit for our low-carbon footprint in a global market. Some large energy companies are selling carbon-neutral LNG [liquefied natural gas] cargoes into the market right now. This will form a competitive advantage for us at LNG Canada, and we need to work together with the government to develop a policy framework around requirements to enable that.”

HANDOUT PHOTO

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A better path

It’s disappointing to see city councillors distancing themselves from individual and collective responsibility for the parking lot debacle.

It’s past time for council to take full ownership of the problem and to direct their energies to repairing the damage. Mitigation should include more equitably balanced spending on the things that do the most good for the least cost in our community, such as our trails and greenspaces that have long been among our most used but least funded recreational resource.

They define where we live, underpin a healthy lifestyle, and have been embraced like never before throughout the pandemic and likely beyond.

COVID-19 has given society a chance to reassess our priorities, and I hope city council will embrace that opportunity as they dig out from this muddle.

Mike Nash, Prince George

Care appreciated

Thank you to the P. G. Hospital for taking care of my brother.

The social workers, the nurses, the staff stayed in touch with us as we were far away They patched through calls from my brother. I know how hard all hospital staff work, from top to bottom, and the long hours to take care of so many in all of our

communities.

Mostly they get people who whine at them because they can’t get information about their loved ones immediately It’s just not possible for them to do it.

They put in 12-hour days taking care of our loved ones.

When talking to various people putting through the calls, I asked them “do you get more flack and whining from people than thanks?”

The answer was yes.

When you all have a loved one in a hospital, understand that those people at all levels are taking care of them and doing God’s work and they may not be able to get you information immediately but they will when they can.

Thank you, Prince George Hospital, for everything you are doing for my brother and keeping us informed.

God bless.

Robert Bishop, Kelowna

Defending Rustad

I want to defend John Rustad on his comments as I do not believe he is a racist

I feel his comments (on vaccine distribution) are correct, especially in the fact that we really do not have a plan with the vaccine rollout and it has changed since the start.

Like the rest of us in Canada, Rustad has the right to have an opinion and speak freely I feel people should not jump on

Google, Facebook need to pay their fair share

We have a very serious situation in this country, and we are delighted to hear that Minister of Heritage Stephen Guilbeault said on Monday that the government is preparing legislation to force tech giants to fairly compensate content creators.

Google and Facebook, two of the richest companies in history, control the onramp to the internet highway in Canada. They decide what we as a sovereign nation see and don’t see in the news. To make matters worse, they take the news produced by Canadians and don’t pay for it.

Meanwhile, all Canadian news media companies, big and small, are suffering for two reasons:

First, they don’t get paid for their content by Facebook and Google; and Second, Facebook and Google take over 80 per cent of all Canadian digital advertising industry revenue.

These massive American companies get virtually all of the revenue and don’t pay for content

Movie content doesn’t work that way in Canada.

Music content doesn’t work that way.

TV show content doesn’t work that way.

So why is news content treated differently?

We only have to look south of the border

racist bandwagons or accuse others so quickly as racists.

When the name calling starts, that’s when the real racism starts.

Roland Hill, Prince George

Know the process

The future is bright and we will see innovation in every aspect of our lives. As residents of Canada and specifically BC, we need to ensure these innovations focus on a cleaner, greener future for the next generation and generations to come.

Prince George has an opportunity to have an extraction facility and an ethylene plant that will be designed and engineered with cutting edge technology and a modern understanding of environmental impacts.

BC has one of the most stringent environmental assessment processes in the world and all proposed major projects must navigate their way through.

During the application to the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO), there is an initial cost to the proponent, review of submission, consultations with various groups to determine what should be considered in the assessment, application evaluation and a second consultation period to identify potential effects. The results are prepared and, finally, the provincial ministers may approve or reject the application

Even though projects make it through

the process, they are likely to have some strict conditions to adhere to and the EAO continues to work with Indigenous groups and all levels of government to promote compliance, conduct inspections, assess complaints, and take enforcement action. This process allows the EAO to understand every component of a proposed project so that there are no gaps in understanding the proponent’s intent and the impact the project will have on the area.

Trust in the process to gather the information.

There is time for all of us to provide input and weigh out if this project is right for us, our city, our province, and our country. If it is built under our rules, restrictions, and conditions, we are able to ensure clean construction, responsible operation and value added to our resources being extracted in our borders.

The responsible development of BC resources should produce BC jobs and provide tax revenue to BC communities. I will support the proposed plant with the expectation that they meet or exceed the conditions set out to them during the environmental assessment.

I will not be getting my information from social media groups or individuals comparing the proposed project to one that was built several decades ago. The facts will determine the path forward.

Cole Devereux, Prince George

to see what happens when real news companies disappear, and social media platforms distribute divisive, fake news

We need to support healthy, independent, diverse news companies as the backbone of our democracy

This is urgent.

It’s a fact that news companies across Canada are going out of business.

COVID-19 is accelerating the decline. Journalism jobs are disappearing.

That means real news keeps disappearing and hate and fake news will be all that’s left to distribute. Let’s not let this happen in Canada.

But there is good news. Australia has figured out the solution.

They created a law that forces the trillion-dollar monopolies to pay fairly for news content. This costs the taxpayer absolutely nothing.

We encourage all Members of Parliament to move quickly. Canada needs your leadership.

- John Hinds is the president/CEO of News Media Canada.

HO RO SC OP ES &P UZ

PUZZLE NO. 804

a model 6. Small demon

Even score 8. Dined 9. Lower-leg front 10. Quick look

11. Crooked 17. Spotted playing cube 19. Dreary 21. Horse-hoof’s sound 22. Time measure 23. Division preposition 24. Wireless set 25. Fast steed 26. Zodiac sign

29. Close friends 30. Foolish

31. Red-pencil text

32. Change 39. “Open Night”

41. Join

42. Sir’s wife

43. “It Came a Midnight Clear”

44. Parodied

45. Ship’s spine

47. Self-regard

48. Father

49. Pension plan: abbr.

51. Ocean fish

52. It came first?

53. Female deer

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1through 9only once Each 3x3 box is outlined withadarker line. You already have afew numberstoget you started Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through 9inthe same line, columnor3x3 box.

MILLNS,RICHARD "MICKEY" FEBRUARY2,2019

Memoriesofyoumake ourheartssmile. Loveyou,Pops.

-Sean,Rose,Tianna, Ethan&yourloyal friend,Chilli.

TERESA CARMELA

MANFREDI

February 9, 2015

IT’S BEEN SIX YEARS...

We miss you now, our hearts are sore

As time goes by we miss you more

Your loving smile, your gentle face

No one can fill your vacant space.

We love you

Antonio, Ines, Vince, Frank and Anthony

1933-2021

JOHN POZDNIKOFF passed away peacefully at home on Friday January 29, 2021 at the age of 88 years, with his partner by his side. John is survived by his 7 children and numerous grandchildren. He was predeceased by their mother and two of his children. A visitation was held on Wednesday, February 3, 2021at 1:00 and 3:00 at Assman’s Funeral Chapel.

KREITZ, Robert

Jun 26, 1938 - Jan 30, 2021

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ray, who was born June 26, 1938 in Winnipeg MB, and passed January 30, 2021 in Prince George, BC.

Survived by wife Roberta (Wittig), sons Brad (Elisa Braccia) and Darby (Traci Nohr), four siblings, grandchildren: Erica, Jennor, Cassidy, Bobby, Tommy, Julia, Elle, and Bronson. Predeceased by parents Robert and Helen, son Todd and grandson Alex. Dad was a proud member of the RCMP, with postings primarily in Saskatchewan and a six year posting in Montreal. He was an avid outdoorsman, and after retirement became a craftsman, building a log house and immersing himself in many woodworking projects. He was a strong moral and ethical presence, instilling these values in his boys, and a faithful companion to mom. We are deeply grateful to the staff at Jubilee Lodge, who cared for and grew to love our dad for the past four years. No longer will Sergeant Kreitz patrol those hallways.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the RCMP Depot in Regina later this year.

In lieu of flowers we would appreciate donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.

REMEMBRANCES

1936-2021

Frank Passed away on January 28, 2021 at the age of 85. Frank is survived by his loving wife Darlene, two sons Darrell (Debbie) and Darcy (Jeannie), four grandchildren; Darrell jr, Desiree, Amanda, and Michael, two great grandchildren; Leonard and Chelsea, two brothers August and Mervin, one sister Adele and many other family and friends. Predeceased by parents William and Mary Protz, brother Michael Protz.

Frank and Darlene Married on November 27, 1965 then moved to Prince George also in 1965. Frank Worked at Netherlands Overseas Mills from 1961 to 1988 as a heavy-duty mechanic/shop foreman. Frank enjoyed donating his time coaching minor hockey for 18 straight years while his two sons grew up playing on minor hockey teams. In summers, Frank always enjoyed traveling to Alberta and Saskatchewan to see his family. Frank also enjoyed the outdoors during the summer months fishing and camping, hunting in the fall, and the snowmobile excursions and ice fishing in the winter with his family and friends. Frank was a perfect example of a loving and committed husband and father and will be forever painfully missed.

Due to Covid restrictions, a celebration of life may be scheduled at a later date. The services can be viewed at a later date at one’s convenience on the Assman’s Funeral Chapel Facebook page.

28,

-

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Peggy Smalley. Peggy left peacefully in her sleep, and is survived by her children, David (DeeDee), Donna (Jim), grand-children Rebecca, Gabriel, Conor and Aamor.

Peggy was born and raised in Burns Lake, B.C. She moved to Vancouver for work, married and then relocated to Vancouver Island. After becoming a single mother, she moved with her children to Prince George and found her calling working in and for the School District. She remained there until her retirement. In 2015 she moved to Grande Prairie to be closer to her daughter, and grand-daughter.

Most will remember Peggy as an avid baker, fan of Jeopardy and a hard working single mother. But she is best known for her kindness and love towards everyone. She always put others first, and everyone was welcomed into her home.

Her patience was remarkable. A certain glance of her blue eyes spoke volumes. Always cheerful and with a thirst for knowledge, up until the day she left us. She will be missed, but never forgotten.

A celebration of life will take place post Covid, in Prince George.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Diabetes Canada.

John Pozdnikoff

Frank Protz

Helene Cornelia (Peggy) Smalley née Stanton

Sept.

1935

Jan. 30, 2021

ANA KARINA PATERSON

2x72.5

PGC002135

Robertson,JoanF. September20,1937-January12,2021

JoanFayRobertson(neeCollett)passedaway peacefullyathomeinPrinceGeorge,BCintheeveningof January12surroundedbyherlovingfamily.Bornin Rossland,BCtheonlydaughterof3children.Joanwas predeceasedbyherdevotedhusbandIanRobertson,and brotherRoyCollett.SheissurvivedbyherbrotherDale Collett,daughtersConnieLacelle,DawnMacKenzie, SusanHeinrich,andsonDarrylHeinrich.AuntyJoanis survivedandcherished,byvariousniecesandnephews, andwasknownasGGbyhermultiple,treasured grandchildrenandgreatgrandchildren.

Joan’sunconditionalloveforherfamilycameaboveall else,avaluesheinstilledinallaroundher,supportingher familythroughmanypassionsanddifficulttimesintheir lives.Hercharmingpersonalityandcaringmannerwon overalmosteveryoneshemetresultinginlasting friendshipseverywhereshewent.Shetookprideinbeing ingoodshape.Joanlovedboardgamesofanykindthat involvedinteractingwithfamilymembersorfriends,but shelovedJokersandRummikubthebest.Joanhada passionforhummingbirds,oilpaintingandgenealogy. Shefacedopenheartsurgeryand2boutsofcancerwith apositivestateofmind.Thosebattlesmayhavehastened herendoflifebutnevercrushedherspirit.Theholeleft byherabsenceisimpossibletofill.Therewillbeno serviceduetoCOVIDrestrictionsbutaCelebrationofLife willfollowwhentheliftingofthoserestrictionsallow.

Marianne Mintenko (Unterhofer)

1958 - 2021

With heavy hearts and sadness, we announce the passing of Marianne Mintenko who’s battle with pancreatic cancer ended Jan 27, 2021 at the age of 62. She left us from home surrounded by family and with loved ones holding her hands. We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the at-home nurses who visited and made it possible for Marianne to stay at home during these difficult times.

Marianne was born in Prince George Dec 1, 1958 and is survived by her loving husband Richard, three children Geoff (Caroline), Christina, Kim and her young grandson Zack who she adored.

She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who missed her extended family in Europe/elsewhere and was a faithful Christian. Deeply motivated, Marianne was incredibly hard working and loved to serve people also regularly volunteering her time in various ways. With a zest for life, she loved the outdoors and enjoyed many actives such as travelling, biking, hiking and volleyball with friends, but also enjoyed the simple pleasures of gardening, berry picking and cooking. She was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a funeral service will be held virtually on Saturday Feb 6, 2021 at live.mygatewaychurch.ca. Please join us to remember her life; the link will be open at 1:30pm with the service starting at 2pm. The service will also be recorded for those unable to attend live stream.

DARYL LEISKI

2x123.3

PGC002133

Leiski,LeonaE. August21,1940-January23,2021

ItiswithgreatsadnessthatthechildrenofLeonaLeiski announceherpassinginPrinceGeorge,BC. MomwasborninViking,Albertaandlivedherearlyyears inVikingandOlds.MomalsospenttimeinFt.St.John, DawsonCreekandFt.St.James.PrinceGeorgewas homethough,andwhenshesettledintoherhomeon CookCrescent,Momneveronceconsideredleaving. Momworkedhardherentirelife.Shewasrenownedasa campcookandcontinuedcookingintoherearly seventies.Formanyyearssheprovidedperogiesand bakedgoodstoloyalcustomersinPrinceGeorge.Mom’s holidaydinnerswereoutstanding,andhergreatestjoy wasinpreparingahugemealforasmanyfriendsand familyasshecouldgatheraroundhertable.Momalways includedaturkeyandaham,perogiesandcabbagerolls alongwithalltheusualsidedishes.Mom’s"salads"were ambrosiaandalayeredJellosalad.Momwasalso famousforherpotatopancakes.Alotofpeopleattended Mom’sTupperwareparties,notsomuchforthe Tupperware,asforthespreadthatMomalwayslaidout! Herpartymenusensuredshehadlargesales!Momlost manyofhertreasuredcookbooksandrecipesinacamp kitchenfireandspentyearsgatheringthemupagain.We arecertainlygladshedid!Herlegacyistherecipesand cookingskillsshepassedontoherchildrenand grandchildren.

Momwastremendouslystubborn,anotherlegacythat livesoninherchildrenandgrandchildren!Onceshehad decidedsomething,nothingcouldchangehermind.Mom livedahardlifeandwasdeterminedtogiveherchildrena betterlifethanwhatshehadhad.Shewashardworking andinstilledthatineachofus.Momwastremendously proudthatweallhadcareersandownedourownhomes. Momwasaloyalfriend,andherkindnesswaslegendary. Onceafriend,youwerefriendsforlife.Momlosther Momwhenshewasonly12andat18founda"Mom"in FlorenceOpdahl.Momwasgratefulforherrelationship withFlorence.

Leonaissurvivedbythreechildren,CherylMcLean (Glenn),DarylLeiski(Cindy),JimLeiski(Tracey);nine grandchildren,Sheena,Daren,Abby,Caroline,Lane, Quinn,Claire,Ella,andLandon;and4greatgrandchildren,Kaden,Logan,EvanandSavannah.Leona isalsosurvivedbyherformerdaughter-in-law,Paula HunterandclosefriendSharronMiners.

Thefamilywouldliketoexpressourdeepestthanksand appreciationtothestaff,nurses,anddoctors(sheknewa few,andchallengedmanymore)ofUHNBCandPG HospiceHousefortheircare,kindnessandsupport.

InLieuofflowersordonationspleaseconsiderarandom actofkindnesstowardsyourfamily,friends,orcomplete strangers.Momwouldbehonored.

Leonawillbedeeplymissedbyhermanyfriendsand family.Onceable,wewillholdacelebrationoflife. WeloveyouMom.

Yourwingswereready,butourheartswerenot.

McCormick, Rober t “Bob” George May 5, 1942 ~ January 27, 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rober

“Bob” George McCormick from his home in Ashcroft on Januar y 27, 2021. He was 78 years of age.

Bob is sur vived by his wife Linda, son Cary (Allison), Linda’s Children Melanie (Mike), Doug (Shawna), and a host of adoring grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. He is also sur vived by his brothers Merle, Bill, and Howard, and sisters Joan, Pat, and Verna and their families

He was predeceased by his son Rob, brothers Ben and Don, and sisters Marie, Linda, and Erin.

Bob was born on May 5, 1942, in Prince George and was raised there He returned there after his time in the navy where he sailed on the H.M.C.S. Bonaventure and saw the world.

After getting out of the navy, he began his long career as an electrician. He took great pride in his work and became very skilled and knowledgeable Travel for work took him to many places in the US and Canada. The most challenging and rewarding experience of his career has been his time with Ashcroft Electric which he operated from 2002 until 2020.

Bob loved the outdoors and took his grandchildren on many camping and fishing adventures throughout BC. Most recently he shared with them his own piece of paradise on Moffat Creek.

He will be remembered for his strength and courage, his strong work ethic, his ability to fix anything, from back hoes to broken flip-flops, and his love for his family which was fierce and unwavering.

Celebration of life services will be held for Bob at a later date

Rest easy beyond the pink sky.

Online condolences may be made at www.tvfh.ca

May the Sunshine of Comfort Dispel the Clouds of despair

Celebrate the lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs and tributes

t

Bridget Wray Dickens (nee Trench)

Oct. 15, 1928 –Jan. 24, 2021

Born in London, England, Bridget Dickens passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord on January 24 at Oyster Harbour Seniors Community in Ladysmith, BC. She is survived by her son, Mark (Ruth) & daughter Lynn, as well as grandchildren Jeremy (Erica), Daniel, Yaqub & Talitha. Bridget grew up in England, trained as an O.T. & came to Canada in 1957, where she met Blake while mountaineering. They married in London in 1959 & settled on Vancouver Island. Moving to the Prince George area in the early 60’s, Bridget was a full-time mother into the late 70’s. In addition to family & the outdoors, she was very involved in St. Giles’ Presbyterian Church & the pastoral care team at the PG Regional Hospital. Bridget & Blake retired to Duncan in 1991, joined St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church & enjoyed hiking, X-C skiing & camping on Vancouver Island. Bridget will be remembered as an insightful, prayerful & gracious woman who had a deep & abiding awareness of God’s presence.

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Three unique kitchen counter materials

Thinking about changing your countertops? Wondering what options you have outside of laminate, quartz and granite? If you’re on the hunt for something unique, consideroneofthefollowingthreeoptions.

1. Soapstone: this natural stone will give your kitchen a rustic look, especially as it ages.Soapstone is matte and soft to the touch, and its colour changes from light to darkgreyovertime.This non-porousstoneisresistanttoheatandstainsbut can easily get dented or scratched.

2. Concrete: this incredibly durable material is infinitely customizable. Concretecounterscanbe manufactured in any colour, shape or finish you dream of. You can even mix other materials like glass into it for a truly unique look. Concrete is scratch-resistant but porous and will need to be sealed to prevent staining.

3. Stainless steel: a mainstay in professional kitchens,stainlesssteelis making its way into people’s homes. Cooks love these counters

because they’re sanitary, easy to clean, won’t stain and can’t be damaged by heat. However,somepeopledon’tliketheindustrial feel of the material or the racket they makeifyoudropsomething.

Ifyou’reonthelookoutforakitchencounter that’ll turn heads, one of the above optionsmaybejustright.

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3 great reasons to get a stair runner

Installing a stair runner can be a great way to showcase a beautiful staircase. Here are three other benefits they provide.

1.More traction. If you have kids or pets, you may worry about them safely climbing up and down the stairs. A stair runner provides extra grip, minimizing the chances of slips and falls.

2.Lessnoise.Doessomeoneinyour home barrel up and down the stairs, making lots of noise? If you’re tired of the continuous stomping,astairrunnerwillmuffle thesoundsoffeetonthestairs.

3.Better protection. A beautiful woodstaircasemustbetreatedcarefully in order to stay in good shape.Unfortunately,it’sapartof the house that naturally takes a beating. Fortunately, stair runners will help prevent them from gettingscuffedorscratched.

Stairrunnerscanbeabeautifuladdition to your home’s overall design, but if they’re installed incorrectly,

theycanbeasafetyhazard.Besureto get yours laid down by a professional to ensure that it doesn’t cause anaccident.

Home renovation health and safety tips

Areyouplanningtorenovateyourhome?If so, you should know that your abode is about to become a construction zone. This means that there will be tools, dust and other health and safety hazards to contend with. Here’s how to protect yourself and yourlovedonesduringahomerenovation.

1.Get an inspection. If your home was builtbefore1990,havesomeonecomein to inspect it for traces of asbestos. You don’tneedtoberenovatingextensivelyto run the risk of exposure to this harmful material.

2.Protect yourself. Even if the inspection doesn’tturnupanything,wearingamask at all times is a good idea. Anyone working on the renovation should also wear gloves, eye protection, hardhats and steel toedbootstopreventinjuries.

3.Protect your home. Lay down tarps so your floors don’t get stained or scuffed and protect any furniture you couldn’t moveoutof the vicinity of the constructionzone.

4.Ventilate. Make sure there’s a window open and fans running while the dirtiest workisunderway.Thiswillkeepfreshair flowingintoyourhome.

5.Clean daily. At the end of every day, vacuum and mop the floors and wipe the dustoffofallsurfaces.

6.Usenon-toxicproducts.OptforVOC-free paint and water-based solvents, as these won’treleasechemicalsintotheair

7.Dodirtyjobsoutside.Designateaspace inyouryardforcutting,sandingandother tasksthatgeneratedustanddirt.

If you’re going to be living in the house while it’s being renovated, it’s a good idea to keep one room in your home closed off Thiswillprovideyouwithahaventoretreat tointheevenings.

6 creative ways to use your attic

Are you thinking about converting your attic into usable living space? If so, here are sixthingsyoumaywanttodowithit.

1. A MASTER SUITE

The sloped ceiling is perfect for creating a comfybedroomyou’lllovetocurlupin

2. AN OFFICE

Ifyouworkfromhome,theatticislikelyisolatedenoughfromtherestofthehousetoprovideyouwithadistraction-freeworkspace

3. A PLAYROOM

If you don’t have a basement, let the kids usetheatticastheirspacetohangout,study andplay.

4. A LUXURIOUS BATHROOM

Doyouneedanotherbathroominyourbusy

household? If so, converting your attic may bethesolution.

5. A YOGA OR MEDITATION SPACE

If you yearn for a quiet space to call your own, use the attic to create a relaxing athomestudio.

6. A GUEST SUITE

Giveyourguestsaquietspacetorelaxwhen they come to visit. If you have the room for it, you could even install an adjoining bathroom.

In short, with a little imagination, your attic can be used to create almost any type of room. Just make certain to adequately insulate the walls and to install a staircase. This ensures that the space will be comfortable andaccessiblefortheentirefamily

Making your dream home: advice for the would-be builder

Are you thinking about building your own home? While there are many advantages of designing a space that works for your family in every way, here are some thingsyoushouldconsiderbeforebreakingground.

LOCATION

Do you want to live in the city or suburbs? If so, it may be hard to find an unoccupied plot. In this case, you may needtolookfurtherawayfromyourdesiredlocationinordertofindlandwhere youcanbuild.

BLUEPRINTS

Ifyoubuildthehouseinasubdivision, youmaybeabletousepre-madebuilder’s plans. However, for a more customized home, you’ll need to hire

anarchitectinstead.

LIFESTYLE

When making design choices, it’s important to think about how you plan to use the house both now and in the future. For example, a steep set of stairs maynotseemlikeabigdealrightnow, but they may prove difficult if you choose to raise a family or grow old in yourhome.

Ifyoudodecidetobuild,rememberthat the home will eventually need to be sold.Forthisreason,it’sagoodideato makedesignchoicesthataren’tsoluxurious that you’ll be priced out of the area or that are so quirky that other peoplewon’twantit

Throw pillows: the seasonal decor

When the seasons change, you probably change the clothes you wear and the food you eat Why should your living room be any different? If you’re not the type to have multiple boxes of decorations but you still want your space to feel seasonal, try swapping outyourthrowpillows.

SPRING AND SUMMER

Four ways to display your decorative dishware

Are you tired of keeping your beautiful disheshiddenaway?Whynotusethemto decorate your home so you can enjoy themallyearround? Herearesomeways to turn your dishware into decor:

1. Exhibit them in a cabinet If your dishes are family heirlooms or especially valuable, the best way to display them is behind glass. Choose a glass-fronted cabinet or hutch with shelves for showing off your collection.

2.Hangplatesonthewall

Hang your most beautiful ornamentalplatesandother dishes on the wall using hooks or plate hangers, either individually or as part of a tasteful arrangement.

3. Use individual pieces as accents. Choose a few key dishes to use as decor in your living room, kitchen or bedrooms. Larger pieces liketeapotsandtureenscan standontheirownonsmall tables or shelves while smaller dishes like teacups can be used to dress up bookcases and bathroom counters.

4. Repurpose them in your home. If you have dishes you’re holding onto but no longer use, consider tur-

ning them into something new Old teacups, plates, bowls and pitchers make great vases, planters, candleholders and soap dishes.

Another way to display your dishware? Removethedoorsofyourkitchencabinets so the shelving is exposed. This way, you can show off your best dishes while keepingthemnearthestovesoyoucaneasily usethemwhenevertheoccasionarises.

With the bright sun and warm days,theseseasons callforbrightcoloursand light textures. Go for botanicalorginghamprints, anddon’tbeafraidtomix patterns For an extra warm-weather vibe, go for breezy linen and cottonfabrics

FALL AND WINTER

When the weather cools down, you might want your living room to have a cosier feel. Throw pillows in darker, moodier tonesmadeofrichfabrics like velvet are perfect for this time of year. For an après-ski feel, choose knittedwoolpillows. No matter the time of year, be sure to choose pillows in a variety of shapes, colours and textures for visual interest, but keep your seasonal theme in mind to maintainacohesivelook

Accent ceilings: great way to make any room stand out

Whenitcomestointeriordecorating,ceilings are rarely considered beyond the customary coat of white paint. But instead of ignoring your ceilings, think about highlighting them to make your rooms really stand out.

A jewel-toned ceiling in an otherwise neutral room will make the room look taller while adding a lively pop of colour

Tin ceiling tiles (or plastic ones made to look like metal) add a touch of old school glamour to any space, especially a kitchen.

If you have a home with unconventional ceilings that are vaulted or beamed, painting them will highlight the unique feature. Likewise, consider using wallpaper on a tray or recessed ceiling for greater impact.

Paint and wallpaper aren’t the only things you can put on youraccentceiling.Hangatapestry on the ceiling for a bohemian look or decorate a child’s bedroom with polka dot decals for a modern take on the glow-in-the-dark stars you may have grown up with.

No matter how you choose to embellish your ceiling, make sure you don’t overwhelm the room by keeping the walls simple.

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What is Universal Design?

Universal Design is an approach to architectureanddesignthatseekstomakespaces accessible to all people, regardless of age, sizeorability ThetermwascoinedbyRonald Mace, an architect who focused on makingpublicspaceseasierforpeoplewith physicaldisabilitiestouse.

Universal Design differs from other approaches to accessible design and assistive technology because instead of trying to meet the specific needs of individuals, it strives to integrate people with disabilities into the mainstream. In other words, it focuses on offering accessibility to everyone rather than helping people with disabilities copewithbarriersthatcould have been avoided in the firstplace.CommonUniversal Design features include ramps, curb cuts and push-button doors, which not only assist individuals with limited mobility but alsomakespaceseasyforall peopletouse.

Although typically used in publicspaces,peoplecanintegrate Universal Design principles into their homes. Here are few ways this can bedone:

• Replace door locks with keylessentrysystems

• Have a full bathroom on theground

floor

• Use open shelving in the kitchen instead ofcabinetswithdoors

•Installgrabbarsandno-slipflooringinthe bathroom

•Replace faucets with touchless or single-levercontrols

•Investinawalk-inshower

With life expectancies rising and higher survival rates for people with disabling conditions, disability-friendly homes are increasingly in demand. Taking steps to make your home more universally accessible will likely prove beneficial and could become a selling point should your home goonthemarket.

Two common kitchen problems and how to solve them

In many homes, the kitchen gets the most traffic. Consequently, an issue in this room is likely to be acutely felt. Here are two common kitchen problems and some tips on how you can solve them.

1. NOT ENOUGH STORAGE

The ideal way to approach this issue is to entirely remodel your kitchen and thereby create the spaceandstorageyouneed.However,if this isn’t currently feasible, you should consider implementing one or more workarounds.

makes it hard to prepare meals and keeptheroomtidy Onesolutiontothis problem,ifyouhavethespaceforit,is to install an island. Alternatively, you can buy a small cart that will give you moresurfaceareatoworkwith.

For example, you can add hooks under the cabinets to store mugs and thereby free some precious cabinet space. Or, youmightwanttoinvestinaprofessional storage system with racks and drawerdividerstomakethemostoutof thespaceyou’vegot.

2. NOT ENOUGH COUNTER SPACE

Not having enough counter space

Freeing up the counter space you have is also essential. Be sure to stow your toaster, coffee maker and other appliances in your cabinets when they’re notinuse.

Once your kitchen problems are solved, you’ll be surprised just how much betterthewholehousewillrun.

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How to integrate the millennial pink trend into your

home

If you’ve been following design trends, you’ve probably heard about millennial pink. This rosy hue started to explode on the fashion, advertising and design scenes asearlyas2012andsevenyearslater,there are no signs of it going away Here are sometipsonhowtousethisgeneration-definingcolourtodecorateyourhome.

Think about undertones

Millennial pink varies in shade from a vibrant grapefruit colour to a beige pink or peachy salmon. In general, it’s a colour almost pale enough to be a neutral while still distinctive enough to bring drab rooms to life

Whatever variation you choose, make sure to consider the shade’s undertones when deciding how to use the colour Cooler pinks (shades with blue-grey rather than peach undertones) go well with white, grey and wood accessories while warmer, more salmon pinks go best with other warm shades.

Start small

Beginwithafewpinktouches toseehowthecolourmatches with the rest of your decor

For instance, start with pink throw pillows and bed linen before going for a pink couch

or painting an entire room. Other unique and tasteful ways to use the colour includeintegratingamillennialpinkaccent wall in your living room or a pink-tiled backsplash in your kitchen.

If you’re worried too much millennial pink could make your home look dated in a few years, enlist a design expert to help you. They’ll advise you on howtoachieveatimelesslookratherthan onethatcouldquicklyfalloutoffashion.

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How to create a kitchen breakfast

Abreakfastnookisasmall,secluded dining space that’s set apart from the rest of your kitchen or living room. It’susuallyreservedforlightermeals and has a more intimate and relaxed atmospherethanadiningroom.

Even if your house doesn’t have a built-in breakfast nook, you can create the feeling of one by putting a table and chairs in a small corner of your kitchen or living room that doesn’t get much use. Not only will yougainacosynicheforeating,chatting and reading, but you’ll also be optimizing your living space by turning an awkward alcove into useable

nook

space. For maximal seating and legroom,thinkaboutinstallingbenches or banquettes along the walls and using a pedestal table instead ofaregulartableandchairs.

To make your breakfast nook more inviting,includeahanginglampover the table and add pillows to the benches or chairs for a bit of colour and comfort. Keep in mind that the best place for a breakfast nook is usually by a window: the view to the outdoors will prevent the space from feeling too cramped and keep your breakfastnookbathedinnaturallight duringtheday.

Three ways to make your home more energy

Whether you’re building from the ground up or renovating your existing house, there are many thingsyoucandotoreducetheamountofelectricity it takes to power your home. Not only is it better for the environment but it’ll also save you money in the long run. Here are a few ways you canimproveenergyefficiencyinyourhome

1. Insulate: install both high-quality insulation and well-insulated windows and doors to stop cold air from coming into your home.Your heating and cooling system won’t need to work as hardtomaintainacomfortabletemperature.

2.Solarpower:installsolarpanelsonyourroof to produce your own clean electricity If you ge-

nerate more power than your house needs, you can make some money by selling it back to the electriccompany

3. Programmable thermostat: avoid heating your home when nobody’s there by installing a programmablethermostatthatcanbesettolower yourhome’stemperaturebothduringthedayand whileyou’reasleep.

Even if renovating isn’t in your current plans, there are still lots of things you can do to reduce your energy consumption Replacing regular lightbulbswithLEDlightsandinstallingthermal curtains to block cold air from getting into your housearesimplemeasuresyoucantake.

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