Prince George Citizen March 4, 2021

PRINCE GEORGE

BILLBOARDS SEEK LEADS ON MISSING WOMAN –PAGE 6

VACCINATIONS PLAN UNVEILED

TED CLARKE

The province has unveiled its COVID-19 vaccine rollout planfor Phase 2, which aims to have more than 400,000 British Columbians from high-risk populations vaccinated by the end of April.

Over the next two months, the province is targeting all seniors aged 80 and older, Indigenous people 65 years and older, hospital staff, general practitioners, medical specialists, nurses and other staff working in community support, as well as many of the province’s vulnerable populations

Monday’s news briefing in Victoria also revealed the province’s Phase 3 plan,

which includes people aged 60-79 in the general population. They likely have to wait until April to receive their first doses of vaccine, with distribution based on fiveyear increments and the vaccine offered to the oldest groups first. People aged 16-69 who are clinically more vulnerable, as well as Indigenous people aged 45-64, are also included in the Phase 3 rollout.

The remaining adults in the province, aged 18-59, will be part of the Phase 4 rollout from July-September, with the oldest of the five-year increments receiving their vaccines first If more vaccines are approved and become available, people in the 18-64 age category who are front-line

essential workers or who work in specified workplaces or industries might become eligible for their vaccines during Phase 3.

From March 1-15, the province plans to vaccinate all its Phase 2 priority groups, which include: high-risk street people, hospital and community health care workers, high-risk seniors living in independent-living homes and the staff of those homes, high-risk seniors in supportive housing, and long-term support clients and staff

From March 15-April 11, the first cohort of the general population (80-and-older) and Indigenous people 65-and-over will be able to book vaccination appointments

ARTHUR WILLIAMS

City council is supporting a 14-unit social housing project on Zelkwas Avenue, despite a 63-signature petition and letters from area residents opposing the project.

The Phoenix Transition Society is expanding its Harmony House operations with a new building on three lots on Zelkwas Avenue owned by Trinity United Church. Harmony House offers housing and support for pregnant women and new mothers struggling with mental health and addictions.

Area resident Keith Annis summed up the concerns echoed by area residents in his letter to city council.

“I feel that this building will not fit in our neighbourhood as there are only single family bungalows in the blocks closest to this proposed building,” he wrote. “I also feel that although I am all for helping people in need, it will bring undesirables to the neighbourhood Angry husbands look for their wives, drug pushers looking for their customers and upset boyfriends looking for their pregnant girlfriends. I see nothing but issues coming out of this.”

City council voted unanimously in favour of the third reading of a rezoning bylaw that would allow the development to proceed to the next steps. Final reading of the bylaw is dependent on the three lots being consolidated.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE/LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE.

EN POINTE A group of Judy Russell’s Enchainement dancers perform a piece in Studio D as part of the Prince George Community Foundation’s Prince George Live! fundraiser on Sunday The event raised more than $55,000

CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

WHAT:

City Council consideration of applications regarding:

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

•TemporaryUse Permit Application No. TU000066

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000017

•Proposed “City of Prince George 390 Nicholson Street Road Closure BylawNo. 9151, 2020”

WHEN:

Monday, March 8, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.

WHERE:

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

PROPOSALS:

1. “City of Prince George 390 Nicholson Street Road Closure BylawNo. 9151, 2020”

Applicant: City of Prince George

Pursuant to section 40 of the Community Charter,the City of Prince George intends to close an approximate 720.6 m² (square metres) portion of road as shown on Reference Plan EPP107555, dedicated on Plan 752, adjacent to the property legally described as Parcel C(PG36163) of Block 132, District Lot 938, Cariboo District and remove the road dedication, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #1 below

The purpose of the road closure is to enable the sale of the closed road area to the adjacent property ownersRobertGeorge Watt and Dolores Dorlisa Zettl. The proposed closure and sale provides the property ownersthe ability to consolidate the closed road area with their adjacent property and to rectify an existing encroachment.

Location Map #1

390 Nicholson Street

2. “City of Prince George Zoning BylawNo. 7850, 2007, Amendment BylawNo. 9163, 2020”

Applicant: Bernard Lurz

Subject Property: 4555 Greenwood Street

BylawNo. 9163, 2020 proposes to rezone the subject property from AR3m: Rural Residential to RS1m: Suburban Residential, as shown on Appendix “A”toBylawNo. 9163, 2020.

The purpose of this application is to facilitate asubdivision on the subject property,orother uses, pursuant to the proposed RS1m: Suburban Residential zoning designation(s).

The proposed Bylawapplies to the property legally described as Lot 4, District Lot 2425, Cariboo District, Plan 11026, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #2 below

Location Map #2

4555 Greenwood Street

3. TemporaryUse Permit No. TU000066

Applicant: Canna Northwest Enterprises Inc. for Blanleil Cranbrook Holding Ltd., Inc. No. BC0826729

Subject Property: 2591 Vance Road

The purpose of the proposed permit is to allow Retail, Cannabis use on the subject property. The proposed retail sale of cannabis will be located in an existing building on the subject property.The applicant has successfully completed the required financial integrity checks and security screenings for anon-medical cannabis retail store required by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. In accordance with the Local Government Act,TemporaryUse Permits can allow ause not permitted by azoning Bylaw. These permits mayonly be issued for amaximum of three (3) yearsand mayberenewedonce for an additional three (3) years.

The proposed TemporaryUse Permit applies to the property legally described as Lot 1, District Lot 753, Cariboo District, Plan 10352, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #3 below

3.1. Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000017

The applicant has applied to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for aCannabis Licence for anon-medical retail cannabis store on the subject property.The applicant has successfully completed the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch financial integrity check and security screening for anon-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 753, Cariboo District, Plan 10352, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #3 below

In addition, the applicant has applied for aTemporaryUse Permit to allow “Retail, Cannabis” use on the subject property that will be considered concurrently with the Cannabis Licence Application.

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 #3 2591 Vance Road

Protesters support jailed Alberta pastor

TED CLARKE

Mary-Jean Serup hasn’t been able to sing in church since public health orders in November closed her usual place of worship.

So when she heard there was a group of church goers planning a rally in front of the Prince George cenotaph Saturday morning in support of jailed Alberta pastor James Coates, Serup made sure to attend.

She was there with her husband and two young children and joined the congregation of about 75 who gathered on a pleasant late-winter morning to protest Coates’s imprisonment for defying public health orders and allowing his parishioners at GraceLife Church in Edmonton to attend his Sunday services.

Like other churches in B.C., Serup’s Prince George Canadian Reformed Church has been closed since November and she says it’s left a huge void in her life.

Serup moved to Prince George two years ago from the Philippines and her church has become her extended family and a way to express her spirituality.

“It’s a need,” said a tearful Serup, who sang three hymns and the national anthem at the event. “I’m a foreigner here, I don’t have really close friends of families, so the

church is our community, it’s our support.”

Most retail shops, liquor stores and food stores have remained open through the pandemic and Steven Boyd is calling on the provincial government to rethink its restrictions and consider churches as an essential service.

“I’m speaking for myself but we look at the church as an essential thing, it’s of our opinion that worshipping the almighty God is as essential as the food we eat,” said Boyd. “We love seeing small businesses open and restaurants but we’d also like to see churches open, just for some consistency. It’s been proven in can be done safely The church pews can be spaced six feet apart and you can wear masks.”

Tim Schouten applauded the bravery of Coates to stand up for what he believes as he addressed the crowd and he spoke about how government restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus are doing society more harm than good. He said it’s time for provinces to lift the bans and allow people to attend church.

“Even the United Nations defines health as a state of complete physical and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease and infirmity, and we all know this from experience.”

Phase 3 starts in April

from page 1

The province’s call-in system will be activated on March 8 for appointments starting March 15 and each health authority will have its own call centre phone number

Seniors aged 90+ (born in or before 1931) and Indigenous people born in or before 1956 can register starting March 8. Seniors aged 85 or older (born in or before 1936) can call starting March 15 for vaccinations that start March 22, while those who are 80 or older will have to wait until March 22 to book an appointment, with vaccinations starting March 29. Registration begins in

late-March for seniors 75-and-older and Indigenous people 60-and-older.

B.C.’s vaccine supply will allow close to 415,000 doses to be given during Phase 2, between now and mid-April. Priority populations from Phase 2 and remaining unvaccinated Phase 1 population will account for 190,000 of those doses. A total of 175,000 doses will be reserved for people born in or before 1941 (80-and-older), while 9,000 doses are targeted for remote and Indigenous communities Indigenous people born in 1956 or earlier (65-and-older) qualify for 35,000 doses of the Phase 2 supply, while 6,000 doses will be reserved for outbreaks.

‘Something that is needed’

from page 1

“There was opposition to this, but I (also) think there is a tremendous amount of support for this in our community,” Coun. Cori Ramsay said. “I think it’s an incredibly important type of housing.”

Coun Murry Krause said the Phoenix Transition Society already runs three successful local housing programs. The society has helped many women change their own lives, and the lives of their children, for the better, he said.

“I, too, believe that this is something that is needed,” Krause said. “For those who wrote, worried about losing their property value, history shows – and research shows – that isn’t the case.”

Coun Frank Everitt said, after reading

CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

HOWCAN IPROVIDE COMMENT?

Residents are invited to provide comment in writing.

As aresultofthe COVID-19 pandemic, City Council at their meeting held April6,2020 passed aresolution to discontinue informal hearings for certain Bylaws, licence and permit applications, and other applications wheresuch hearings are notlegally required to be held.

Pursuant to Section464(2)ofthe Local Government Act,City Council has waived the requirements for aPublic Hearing to be held respecting proposed ZoningAmendment BylawNo. 9163, 2020 during the regular Council Meeting held Monday, February8,2021.

In accordance with orders of the Provincial Health Officer related to gatherings and events, membersofthe public are not permitted to attendCity Councilmeetings and Public Hearings. These meetings are live streamed on the City’s websitewww.princegeorge.ca and the recordings are archived for viewing at anytime.

Residents are encouraged to provide written comments to Council to be included in the Councilmeetingagenda packageand available forpublic viewing on the City’swebsite.

Forsubmissions to be included on theagenda forCouncil’s reviewinadvance of the meeting date, theymust be received by the Corporate Officer no later than 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 2, 2021. Submissions receivedafter the noteddeadline and before 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 8, 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, faxedto (250) 561-0183, mailedordelivered to the address noted below.

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

Authority

Personalinformation 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’s FIPPACoordinator at (250) 561-7600 or 1100 Patricia Boulevard,Prince George, BC, V2L 3V9.

NEED MOREINFORMATION?

Acopyofthe proposed Bylaws, applications and anyrelated documents will be available for reviewbythe public on the City’swebsite www.princegeorge.caunder‘News and Notices’ beginning February24, 2021.These documentsmay also be reviewedatthe DevelopmentServicesoffice on the2nd FloorofCity Hall on February24, 25, 26, March1,2,3,4, 5and 8, 2021, between the hoursof8:30a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

the letters to city council on the matter, that much of the opposition was based on misinformation, including a rumour the building would be three stories tall.

M’akola Development Services is acting as the agent for the society Planner Hillary Morgan said the goal is to make sure the program fits in with the community

“We really want to make sure the building doesn’t look institutional – that it looks like a house,” Morgan said. “We want to maintain the dialog with the neighbour.”

Morgan said she hopes have the lots consolidated so city council can approve final reading in March. However, there are still building permits and other steps to take – including talks with BC Housing, which is funding the project – before construction can begin.

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.

Formore information with regards to theproposed road closure(s), please contact Real Estate Services, by telephone at (250) 561-7611orbyemail to realestate@princegeorge.ca.

First Nations pursue natural gas project

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Lheidli T’enneh Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band and Prince George-based Formula Capital Corp. said they are close to forming a partnership to develop a petrochemical complex in the First Nations’ fledgling industrial park north of the city.

The move comes after West Coast Olefins Ltd. president Ken James said in December it has decided to renew a plan to build a complex at the BCR Industrial Site in Prince George.

WCOL had considered properties near Summit Lake and Bear Lake - including

land LTN and MLIB have their eyes on for the industrial park - but backed away, James said, because opposition to the project remained just as strong as if if was to be built in Prince George.

The next day, LTN and MLIB issued a statement saying they oppose WCOL advancing the project on the BCR industrial site and that there will be no future negotiations between the parties.

Formula Capital CEO Paul Tiefensee said the three are close to agreeing on a memorandum of understanding and once signed, a pre-feasibility study will be carried out to assess the project’s viability

He said that, at the least, they hope to

achieve a complex that extracts feedstock from the Enbridge West Coast natural gas pipeline and refines it into condensate, butane, ethylene and propane.

Tiefensee indicated the goal could be much larger and rival what WCOL has in mind for the BCR, namely plants that produce plastic pellets and antifreeze and heat transfer fluid.

Noted northern B.C. sawmill builder Brian Fehr is the majority owner of Formula Capital which, in turn, owns Formula Contractors Ltd. Tiefensee is the CEO for both firms.

Completed projects listed on Formula Contractors’ website include several relat-

ed to mining and hydroelectricity

LTN Dayi Clay Pountney said the goal is to create something that will benefit the entire region.

LTN and MLIB remain in the process securing land for their Shas Ti-Dlezeh Industrial Park, Pountney confirmed. They have their eyes on close to 400 hectares (1,000 acres) of Crown land about four kilometres southwest of Summit Lake and on the east side of Highway 97 North.

In a response emailed Tuesday, James said WCOL will continue to move forward with its project and is “confident in its ability to advance a project with the highest probability of success.”

Gravel miners dispute city-imposed setback

A dispute between two local businesses and the City of Prince George over a gravel mining operation off Foothills Boulevard is headed to court.

Rock’n’Roll Aggregates Ltd and Rolling Mix Concrete (B.C.) Ltd filed a notice of claim at the Prince George courthouse this week seeking to overturn a 100-metre setback imposed by the city on the activity. The plaintiffs contend the work should instead be subject to the B.C. Mines Act,

which they say allows a five-metre setback. The 100-metre setback imposes a “very significant” impact, according to the notice, because it removes about one-third of the sand and gravel reserve they otherwise would have been able to mine The material was to be used to “ensure the continuation of supply for concrete manufacture” by Rolling Mix, they say in the notice. They say activity within the 100-metre setback was ceased mid-October 2020 in response to an order issued by the city. The site is southwest of the intersection

of Foothills and North Nechako Road and bordered by residential properties to the west and the north.

The plaintiffs are seeking a declaration that the province has exclusive jurisdiction to regulate mining activity through the Mines Act and that the city’s bylaw regulating the activity do not apply

If the court instead finds the city does have the power to regulate their activity, they’re seeking to have the site declared a legal non-conforming use, arguing that the activity has occurred at the location since

1995. A bylaw imposing the 100-metre setback only came into effect in April 2019, according to the notice.

If the court finds in favour of the city on whether it has the power to impose the 100-metre setback, they are also seeking compensation pursuant to the Community Charter They are also seeking court costs and interest and damages should the court determine the city “injuriously affected an interest” in the land.

The claim has not been tested in court and the city has not yet filed a response.

CANFOR REAPS $575 MILLION IN 2020

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Buoyed by an “unexpected increase in demand and record global pricing,” forest products producer Canfor recorded $574.6 million in adjusted net income for 2020, according to an update issued Wed., Feb. 24.

The number represents a major turnaround from a $96.6-million loss for 2019 and translated into a gain of $4 59 per share, compared to a loss of $0.77 the year before.

Much of the gain was made in the third and fourth quarters, when the company recorded a total of $517.4 million in adjusted net income,

“The unprecedented challenges stemming from the coronavirus outbreak

weighed heavily on results in the first half of 2020

However, through the second half of 2020 there were several positive developments, including an unexpected increase in demand and record global pricing,” the company said in its quarterly report. They included a “sustained increase in North American demand over the traditionally slower season, particularly in December.”

Housing starts in the United States averaged nearly 1.6-million during the fourth quarter, up 11 per cent from the previous quarter. The rise reflected an 18-per cent increase in starts on single-family homes offset by a 10-per-cent decline in multi-family starts.

Single-family homes consume about

three times the lumber that multi-family units do, the company said, and also noted “unusually high demand in the repair and remodeling sector.”

Starts in Canada averaged 239,000 units on a seasonally adjusted basis, unchanged from the prior quarter

It said the benchmark price for random-length spruce-pine-fire 2x4s #2 and better was extremely volatile over the fourth quarter, falling from an all-time high of US $955 per thousand board feet at the end of September to a low of $530 at the end of October then ending the year at $920 for an average of $700 and down $68 from the third quarter.

The pace is expected to continue during the first half of 2021.

“The ongoing effects from the COVID-19

pandemic are forecast to continue to influence consumer spending habits while favorable demographics driven by the millennial generation entering prime home buying years will also facilitate this strong lumber demand,” Canfor said in the update

On the pulp and paper side, a net loss of $22.4 million was recorded for the year and $10.2 million for the fourth quarter, compared to losses of $30.5 million and $19.5 million respectively during 2019.

Results for the fourth quarter “reflected continued soft market conditions and weak prices on pulp shipments” as well as downtime at the Northwood pulp mill to rebuild a lower furnace on a recovery boiler

The work was completed in mid-January, Canfor said.

More forest industry acquisitions expected in 2021

NELSON BENNETT

Glacier Media

Record high lumber prices have left North American forestry companies flush with cash, setting the stage for more forestry merger and acquistions in 2021.

Lumber prices broke records in September and again in February, inching towards $1,000 US per board feet for the first time

With forestry companies reporting some record profits, it means they are in a

position to either go on a buying spree or become targets for acquisition.

“One of the questions the analysts keep asking is ‘What are you going to do with all the cash?’” said Russ Taylor of Russ Taylor Global, a wood business consulting firm.

2021 began with a big bang. At the end of January, Vancouver-headquartered West Fraser Timber Co. closed on a $4 billion acquisition of Ontario-based Norbord, which makes West Fraser the world’s biggest producer of not just lumber, but also oriented

Lumber prices to remain high into next year, expert says

A market watcher predicts the high-flying price of lumber could continue for some time yet.

In a podcast hosted by Canadian Forest Industries, Keta Kosman, owner of Madison’s Lumber Reporter, says she is expecting the pace to continue for as much as the next couple of years - and not just because the pandemic sparked a boom in the repair and remodeling market.

In 2020, millennials made up the largest cohort of first-time buyers for the first time, Kosman notes.

“So, we’re now having a large demographic entering the U.S housing market

that has nothing to do with the pandemic. And that’s 25 years’ worth of people. So, it’s very positive,” she said “Definitely through this year, there will not be a slowdown, and potentially also through 2022.”

As of Feb 12, the benchmark price for kiln dried western spruce, pine and fir 2x4s, #2 and better, stood at US $992, according to a posting on the Maidson’s website.

In contrast, the price was US $346 as of January 2019 when Canfor announced curtailments at three B.C. sawmills.

To hear the podcast, go to www.woodbusiness.ca/2021-lumber-market-outlook/.

strand board.

And in February, Drax, a British utility, announced plans to buy B.C.-based wood pellet maker Pinnacle Renewable Energy for $385 million. B.C.’s forestry sector is already highly consolidated, with three large public companies owning a significant number of lumber and pulp and paper mills, as well as a significant share of the Crown tenure: West Fraser Timber, Canfor Corp. and Interfor Corp.

RBC Capital Markets analyst Paul Quinn

has suggested that B.C.’s Big Three could become the Big Two, with Canfor buying Interfor

With a $3.4 billion market cap compared with Interfor’s $1.9 billion, Canfor is the bigger company. Interfor has no debt, and posted record sales of $249 million in the fourth quarter and $205 million in free cash flow

“That’s makes them an acquisition target if you are in that kind of a situation,” Taylor said.

PrinceGeorgeFrancophone Associationcelebratesits

For60years,LeCercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George (CCFPG),has connectedthe Francophonecommunity in Prince George

Founded in May 1960, theorganization has been honouringits 60th anniversaryfor the past year andis nowcapping off thecelebration with its annual FrancoFun Winter Festival

The CCFPG contributes to the creation of new servicesinFrench, promotes theFrench language, culture,productsand services, and welcomes andpromotes the integrationof newcomers.

“Peopledon’t realize that we do have francophonecommunities all over Canada,” Trépanier says.

“We’re all about givingservices to thewhole population,not just francophones.”

Smile

“We’ve been highlightingour foundation throughout the whole year andwehavesuch agreat community spirit around us in Prince George,”CCFPG executivedirectorRenée Trépanier says.

“We’ve had lots of supportand it’s heartwarming.”

To celebrateits milestone anniversary, CCFPG hasbeenhighlightingfrancophone artists, offeringcooking classes, andorganizing ahistoricoverview of the association. In October,CCFPG held an open housewith local electedofficialsin attendance.

From March 6 to March13, the FrancoFun Winter Festival willincludeonlinemusical performances by Francophoneartists, an art exhibit at theOmineca ArtCentre, special school performances, atakeawaybrunch at SugarShack,an online silentauction anda grandprize giveaway escape package from SandmanHotel.

Thoseservices include activities forseniors, French libraryresources, French lessons, translation services, andFrench preschool programs

In August, CCFPG partneredwith Immigration Canada when Prince George was selected to pilotthe Welcoming Francophone Communityinitiative as part of theGovernment of Canada’s Action Plan for Official Languages.

Under theinitiative, atotal of 14 communities acrossCanada receivedfundingtocreate programs and activities to help French-speakingnewcomers feel welcomedand integrated into Francophoneminoritycommunities.

Registertoparticipate in theFrancoFUN Winter Festival by calling(250) 561-2565 or emailinginfolecercle@gmail.com.

RESIDENTS REMAIN IN MAIL LIMBO

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Postal service along a stretch of North Kelly Road remains in limbo two months after door-to-door delivery was cut due to safety concerns.

About 30 residents in the vicinity of Springwood Elementary School must continue to pick up their mail at the post office on Fifth Avenue downtown, a 15-20 minute drive away.

And even then, there is no guarantee it

will be worth the trip.

Joyce Miller, a senior living in the 9100 block where she and her husband are housebound due to the COVID pandemic, has been able to get a neighbour to pick up her mail.

It seemed to go well initially, but when the neighbour made the trip in late January, there was nothing waiting for Miller despite the fact she relies on the mail to get her bills. A week later, the neighbour made the trip again and this time came

back with 60 pieces for Miller

“You should see the stack of mail I got here, it is unbelievable,” she said.

Miller and her neighbours received a notice on Dec. 18 saying the service has been put on hold.

Traffic congestion, vehicle speed, and the street width were raised as the points of trouble in the notice.

Miller prefers to see a return of service but if that doesn’t happen, she noted that there are superboxes on Zral Road just

a two-minute walk away from where she lives and she would be happy with that.

In an email sent this week, Canada Post spokesperson Nicole Lecompte said the safety review has been completed and officials are now working on a permanent solution for the residents of North Kelly Road.

“We will communicate with our customers as soon as a decision has been made. We appreciate your patience and understanding at this time,” Lecompte said.

MP urges caution on medically-assisted dying bill

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Calling it a difficult issue, Cariboo

Prince George MP Todd Doherty says a fuller debate is in order on expanding medical assistance in dying to cover Canadians who are not approaching the natural end of their lives.

The federal Liberals are hoping to have Bill C-7 passed to meet a court-imposed deadline for bringing the law into compliance with a 2019 Quebec Superior Court ruling.

But with the Conservatives signaling that they would drag out debate on recently-introduced amendments, the government asked the court to give it one more monthuntil March 26, according to The Canadian Press.

“I think my concern remains the same as it was back when it was C-14 in my first term, and now with C-7, is that a piece of legislation such as this is being rushed through without proper consultation and without proper communication and debate,” Doherty said.

The Conservatives largely opposed expanding access to assisted dying in the original bill.

“I understand all sides of the argument, I truly do... and I think we would be doing a disservice to many, many Canadians if we just allowed this to pass without fulsome review and debate,” Doherty said

Among the amendments proposed by the Senate is to provide assistance in dying

Breathe

to Canadians suffering solely from grievous and irremediable mental illnesses.

As originally drafted, the bill would have imposed a blanket ban on assisted dying for people suffering solely from mental illnesses.

A strong majority of senators argued that the exclusion was unconstitutional, violating the right to equal treatment under the law, regardless of physical or mental disability, as guaranteed in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

They voted to impose an 18-month time limit on the mental illness exclusion, which the government now wants to extend to two years

During that interlude, the government is also proposing to have experts conduct

an independent review of the issue and, within one year, recommend the “protocols, guidance and safeguards” that should apply to requests for assisted dying from people with a mental illness

“What I feel is that people with a mental illness problem, they need assistance to live and thrive, not hasten death,” Doherty said. “There are dark days, there are no two ways about it, but I don’t think that there is anyone there that can determine whether a mental illness represents an advanced state of decline in capabilities that cannot be reversed.”

Doherty was named special advisor to the leader on mental health and wellness when Erin O’Toole became Conservative leader

Billboard campaign seeks leads on missing Saskatoon woman

A search for a missing Saskatoon woman has come to Prince George.

The city is among 34 others across Canada where a photo of Mackenzie Lee Trottier has been posted on digital billboards.

Trottier, 22, was last seen by her family in her hometown on Dec. 21, according to Saskatoon Police Service

She is described at five feet tall, 145 pounds with blond medium-length hair shaved off on the right side, as well as

green eyes, a fair complexion, broken front teeth and a tattoo on her right ankle.

She usually wears heavy make up, black yoga pants, a heavy green jacket and carries a large purse, Saskatoon Police Service added

Anyone with information on where she may be can contact Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca (English only)

Ski crosser fourth at World Cup event

TED CLARKE

A split-second blink of an eye.

That’s all that separated Prince George ski cross racer Tiana Gairns from a medal Sunday at the World Cup mixed team event in Bakuriani, Georgia.

Reece Howden, the Crystal Globe series points champion from Cultus Lake, did his part in the Big Final, winning the men’s race, but only by the slightest of margins. Just 16 hundreds of a second separated first from fourth.

In the mixed team event, the women wait in the start gate and the gate drops as soon as their male partner crosses the finish Gairns hung within striking distance of the leaders for the entire race and was in third place behind Fanny Smith of Switzerland and was right on the tail of second place

Sandra Naeslund of Sweden as the skiers approached the bottom part of the course.

Courtney Hoffos of Windermere, whose

partner was Chris Del Bosco of Montreal, tucked into the draft and just before the final jump she made her move, passing Gairns and Naeslund for second place and a silver medal.

Gairns and Del Bosco ended up fourth on what was a monumental day for Canada.

“It’s a fun event but as the second racer you feel like you have a bit more pressure but this guy set me up well each round,” said Gairns, 22, who recovered from a shoulder injury and a concussion this season and now ranks 21st in the world

Her fourth-place result is a career best Gairns finished eighth in the solo event Saturday, after qualifying fifth-quickest

Virtually the same course is being put to the test this week when Bakuriani hosts World Cup snowboard cross racing. Meryeta O’Dine, Evan Bichon and Colby Graham, all of Prince George, are on the World Cup tour this season.

Cougars await green light

TED CLARKE

Although league play started last Friday in the WHL’s Central Division, with the Eastern Division expected to follow suit in mid-March and the U.S. Division with its first scheduled game on March 18, the B.C. Division in which the Cougars belong has no confirmed start date.

Lamb has yet to see all his players for the 2021 season gathered together on the same sheet of ice and that won’t happen until the league receives the green light from the provincial health office to go ahead with a 24-game season

“We don’t have a (conventional threeweek) training camp, we haven’t seen these players all year, so that’s the unknown, and what I’m looking forward to is seeing these guys,” said Lamb.

“We’re allowed to bring five 16-year-olds and one 15-year-old (who can play during the season as an affiliated player), and that’s exciting. What’s not exciting is we don’t have a training camp. I don’t like just giving away jobs, you’ve got to work for it, and it’s going to be internal once we get playing and that will be ongoing You’ve got a team and obviously you know your veteran players coming back but it’s all new with these young guys.”

The Cougars will be part of the B.C bubble and will be based in Kamloops, along with the Blazers and Victoria Royals, while the Kelowna Rockets and Vancouver Giants will set up shop in Kelowna. All 24 Cougar games will be played either in Kamloops or Kelowna, most likely with no spectators and Cats fans will have to tune in webcasts on WHL Live to watch their team play in a season that lasts just two months.

Eastern Division games will all be played in Regina. But there will be travel involved for the Central and U.S. Divisions with each city except Portland hosting games.

This year’s edition of the Cougars is

heavily weighted with players born in 2002. Seven returning players on the roster –goalie Taylor Gauthier, defenceman Majid Kaddoura, and forwards Connor Bowie, Tyson Upper, Jonny Hooker, Ethan Browne and Brendan Boyle - are all considered as 19-year-olds with two years of junior eligibility remaining. That doesn’t necessary mean all will make the team, but it does give Lamb the luxury of an experienced core to work with along with overage forward Ilijah Colina and defenceman Jack Sander, both entering the twilight of their WHL careers.

Aside from Gauthier, who made Canada’s world junior team in December, only a few Cougars have played games this season. Gauthier, who turned 20 on Feb. 15, is back as the anchor in goal, with capable backup from 17-year-old Tyler Brennan. Gauthier is a leader and he’s coming off his best WHL season, recording a 2.93 goals-against average and .917 save percentage in 50 games played

One other 20-year-old – defenceman Cole Moberg, a seventh-round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019, has been playing pro in the AHL for the Rockford IceHogs and might not be returning to the Cougars From last year’s team, graduated forwards Josh Maser (Iowa Wild, AHL), Vladislav Mikhalchuk (Wheeling Nailers, ECHL) are now playing pro while defenceman Ryan Schoettler (University of Calgary) has moved on to U Sports university hockey, which has canceled its season.

The Cougars also know their two imports – 2001-born Czech forward Filip Koffer and 2003-born Finnish forward Jonni Kärkkäinen – will not be available to them this season due to the pandemic-related border restrictions.

Koffer finished seventh in team scoring last season with 24 points in 59 games and played for his country in the world junior tournament in Edmonton.

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SAVE-ON MOVE WILL HURT DOWNTOWN

The proposed move of the downtown Save-On Foods store, currently in the Parkwood Mall, to Pine Centre is a crushing blow to the downtown core and is a new and severe headache for Prince George city council.

The only major grocery store in the area moving out sometime in the next 12 to 18 months puts many current downtown-area residents in a serious bind.

The hundreds of seniors living in Gateway and River Bend are about to lose walking distance access to a supermarket.

There have been extensive studies, particularly in the United States, of urban areas known as food deserts.

These are parts of a city where there is little to no easy, walking-distance access to healthy food at fair market prices.

These areas are disproportionately populated by vulnerable people dealing with everything from poverty and crime to mental health and addictions.

Having to travel much further than more affluent residents to put groceries in the fridge for themselves and their dependents adds strain to an already precarious existence.

The outcome is tragic.

Residents of food deserts end up being

forced to spend more on lesser quality food.

While residents in more affluent neighbourhoods shop in vast supermarkets with huge produce sections, people living in food deserts are left with picking up groceries at convenience stores, where the fruit and vegetables section are a few apples and bananas.

Diets suffer, with health consequences for children and seniors in particular

The departure of the Save-On Foods from Parkwood creates all the conditions for a food desert in downtown Prince George.

Not only will many current downtown area residents be affected, so will existing businesses, many already hanging by a thread, thanks to declining consumer traffic and COVID-19.

Realistically, many of the downtown businesses that closed their doors last year due to the pandemic are unlikely to reopen even once everyone is full vaccinated and if they do, there’s far less reason to set up shop downtown.

Furthermore, the Save-On move takes away a major incentive for people contemplating moving into downtown because they want/need to stop driving and live closer to important health and social service amenities and supports, most of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Gas hike greedy

We are going through a pandemic, which has hurt a lot people in the pocket book and we wake up one morning to discover our gas prices have take a sky-rocketing jump from 115.9 to 129.9 per litre, a jump of 14 cents per litre.

In the past year, when the gas prices took a jump upward, the powers that be would tell us that the hikes were due to demand.

Since restrictions due to the pandemic and a reduction in vehicular, air and sea level, what is the reason for the hike this time? Greed.

Shouldn’t our government be looking into this ridiculous increase? Perhaps our city council should be putting pressure on higher government on this matter

John Broderick

Prince George

Plastic problem

I take issue with Mr Devereux’s letter

published in the Feb. 11 issue of this paper.

As with other proponents of the plan, Mr. Devereux takes too local a view. As I understand the plan, the next step after producing the ethylene pellets was to ship them to Asia for further treatment. That would involve shipping, which is a very polluting process for which no country bears responsibility and no jurisdiction tries to control.

if the world did need any more plastic, would it not be better to allow the whole process to occur in Asia? China, for example, is the terminus for a gas pipeline from Siberia.

It has access to all the raw materials and could proceed all the way to making plastic without having to ship any intermediate materials.

Ross Pearce

Prince George

Dr. Henry needs to go

I feel Bonnie Henry has overstepped her

which are located in or close to the city centre.

The entire career of Prince George mayors past and present has been around urban residential development downtown, with people working, living and shopping in the city core

The Park House condominiums across from city hall and the student housing building next to the public library were the linchpins in Mayor Lyn Hall’s efforts to realize that goal.

Along with three new hotels (two built and open, one more set for construction), a new downtown pool, a refurbished library, a new underground parkade, a new child-care centre, and bringing the community arts council downtown into the old BMO building on Third Avenue, it looked like Prince George’s downtown might finally become what Hall and his predecessors dreamed it could be.

The whole point of living downtown in any city large or small is not having to own a vehicle.

All of the necessities of life are within walking distance or easily accessed through regular and reliable public transit. Without a supermarket, however, the incentive for individuals who have the choice of whether to live downtown or not all but disappears.

If you have to drive to the grocery store or get someone to take you there, you might as well live anywhere else in Prince George except downtown.

From a political and business standpoint, there’s little to be done. City council can’t force Save-On Foods to keep its store in Parkwood, particularly if Pine Centre is offering a much better lease.

What the planned move clearly demonstrates is how ambitious downtown development plans by earnest local politicians will always remain fully dependent on the ongoing support of the private sector

If the move by Save-On leads to a stampede of private retail and commercial businesses leaving downtown, the opposite of “if we build it, they will come” will happen, showing that pro-development catch phrase pulled from a Kevin Costner movie about building a baseball diamond in a corn field doesn’t always work

“Let’s get Prince George moving again,” the recently departed Glen “Moose” Scott often said during his two terms on city council.

It’s safe to say Save-On Foods leaving downtown for the comforts of the city’s only interior shopping mall well away from the downtown core isn’t what he had in mind.

- Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout

authority and her responsibilities by undermining the RCMP and comparing them with city police. I feel there is no comparison between the two and the RCMP is a much better force.

She said that the RCMP were slower to adapting to the opioid crisis and that officers did not carry naloxone, which is not true.

I know an RCMP member who twice used it on a person overdosing.

Dr. Henry’s rock star fame is falling on deaf ears as more and more are not listening to her and the gatherings and the party culture grows.

I, for one, do not listen to her at times and rebel against her orders.

Roland Hill Prince George

Save-On solution

In response to: Save-On move huge blow to downtown.

Save-On moving is a huge blow to downtown Business-wise, it is a good decision for Save-On.

But to quote Yoda: there is another.

The Downtown Prince George Farmers Market has been supplying fresh, and local edibles for many, many years The solution already exists.

Did you know farmers markets in B.C act similar to Food Banks with the help of the B.C Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM)?

The BCAFM covers the cost of food for those facing poverty

What can we do?

The Prince George city council needs to act. Stop selling buildings used by the farmers markets. Stop using bylaw officers to force farmers markets to close, as seen in 2019 Simply support Canadians selling Canadian farmed goods

We have the local talent.

Can those we call leaders let us help ourselves?

Chris Wood Prince George

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Choosing social media truth is dangerous

The term “cancel culture” is increasingly part of the mainstream lexicon.

It is by no means a new term The ability of groups to suppress viewpoints or punish those with objectionable views has been a hallmark of human interactions for as long as we have existed.

Consider our ancestors for whom living in a tribal settings was critically important to survival and reproduction.

Speaking out against the tribal leaders or the dominant viewpoint could result in being ostracized. Living by yourself in prehistoric times was pretty much a death sentence.

Or the Qin Dynasty, where speaking ill of the Emperor was a fatal mistake.

Simply disagreeing with authority could result in execution.

Dissidents were not welcome.

Or the Middle Ages when the Church exercised control over much of Europe. Most people have heard of the trial of Galileo Galilei in which he was charged with heresy because he dared to propose Earth was not the centre of the universe and instead orbited around the sun.

He was imprisoned and threatened with execution unless he recanted. Given the choice between denying his beliefs and death, he chose to live but is said to have uttered “It still moves” as he left the docket.

Throughout history, people have paid a price for uttering or publishing politically unpopular viewpoints.

AS I SEE IT

TODD WHITCOMBE

It still is happening in many totalitarian states around the world where people are “disappeared” for making too much noise.

Consider the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi or the attempted assassination of Alexei Navalny

And not just individuals as recent genocides have demonstrated.

There is and always has been a price to pay for exercising free speech.

Yet affording newspapers, television programs, and internet providers the right to free speech is critically important to sustaining our democracy.

The right to free speech is enshrined in our constitution.

Unfortunately, the bastion of free speech, journalism in all its forms, has been under attack for as long as there has been journalism.

Right wing and left wing politicians – and even those straight down the centre – perceive media as being biased

Not just politicians

Most people feel some news outlets do not always or ever represent their point of view

This is why these columns are called “As I See It”.

They are no one’s point of view but my

own and readers are more than welcome to disagree with anything or everything I write!

This perception of media bias is exacerbated by the consolidation of media outlets into corporate conglomerates with an agenda.

Fox News in the United States is a prime example. Indeed, they have gone so far as to admit they are not in the “news” business but in the “entertainment” business instead.

Their objective is to garner viewers, which allows them to ask for money from advertisers and subscribers.

One could make similar claims with regard to just about every media outlet but the reality, at least for people in our part of the world, is the news we get is relatively unbiased.

Or maybe a better way to say it is it often annoys people on both sides of the political spectrum

There is an old adage that says if you aren’t vexing somebody, you aren’t doing it right

But does our local media exhibit a “cancel culture” mentality?

Not as far as I can tell

Letters to the editor are (mostly) printed verbatim.

Columnists can harangue city hall. Journalists can write in-depth articles and report on cost overruns or other forms of malfeasance without fear of reprisals. And almost any viewpoint can find an outlet somewhere

Which ultimately brings me to my point

(sorry it took so long)

With the proliferation of social media, the “almost any viewpoint” has turned into “any viewpoint.”

If you carefully read mainstream media, it is always careful to separate people from actions and stick to the facts. Not so with social media.

Social media is unfiltered. It allows online bullying. Anonymous trolling. Outright lies.

Organizations can spread misinformation.

And it seems to be a home for every form of conspiracy theory.

Social media has opened a can of worms. And not surprisingly, many people and organizations are taking advantage of the opportunity to use the worms to bait followers.

The past four years have demonstrated just how powerful social media is at altering worldviews and manipulating large groups of people.

Large segments of the United States still believe the last presidential election was a fraud and although Congress certified the results, President Biden didn’t win the election.

How is that possible?

Because they believe mainstream media is not telling the truth.

After all, they read about it on Twitter or it was shared through Facebook.

If we value democracy, we need a free and fair press.

At least that is the way I see it.

Calling out genocide the right call

Parliament recently took a stand on a human rights issue as courageous as Joe Clark and Brian Mulroney’s opposition to South African Apartheid in the 1980s and Stephen Harper’s apology for residential schools in 2008.

On Feb. 22, by a vote of 266 to 0, the House of Commons voted to recognize China’s treatment of Uighurs and other Muslim minorities as genocide Despite the fact that the prime minister and other key Liberals abstained, members of all parties, from Conservatives to Greens, voted in favour of the bill.

It is significant to note as well that the only other country before Canada who has called China’s crimes against humanity genocide is the United States, though that was done as Donald Trump was leaving office, and it is not clear whether or not Joe Biden will be as supportive.

Clearly, Canada has put itself out on a limb, criticizing the actions of a major trading partner, a significant world power, and a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

It is also significant to note that Canadian and Chinese diplomats are still negotiating the release of Canadian citizens held in Chinese jails and that relations have been tender between the two countries

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

since the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018. Some have argued that Canada has gone too far and that using the word “genocide” trivializes the term. There is significant evidence to show that what is happening to Uighurs and other Muslim minorities in China is indeed genocide. In fact, when scholar Raphael Lemkin, who coined the term, petitioned to United Nations to recognize the crime of genocide, he wanted the definition to go much further

The fact is, there are many crimes against humanity that are indeed genocide, but the international community fails to use the word because it would require them to act against powerful nations to protect the rights of innocent people.

According to the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, “genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:

There are many crimes against humanity that are indeed genocide, but the international community fails to use the word because it would require them to act against powerful nations to protect the rights of innocent people.

• Killing members of the group;

• Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;

• Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;

• Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;

• Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.”

One should never fear doing the right thing.

Yes, there will be consequences and repercussions from China. It is unlikely,

however, that Canada will stand alone in declaring these crimes a genocide.

The Dutch, for example, have already followed Canada’s lead. We have done what middle power countries should do: begin the process and establish a precedent so that other global players can join the initiative.

The challenge now is to give meaning to the bill passed on Feb. 22. Will Justin Trudeau downplay its significance in an effort to appease China or will he have the courage to risk offending powerful allies as Clark and Mulroney did when taking a stand against apartheid?

This is a significant moment in world history.

In 1994, the world refused to call the murder of 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda genocide because it would require us to intervene. In its aftermath, we claimed that we had learned our lesson.

There have been numerous genocides since 1994 and we have stood by Maybe, just maybe, we have changed and are willing to risk doing the right thing.

Time will tell if this is a meaningless bill or if we have shifted the course of human history.

This is Canada’s opportunity to change the world.

Give unto Henry what is Henry’s

In the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, Jesus offers a pithy phrase that has been used ever since to guide Christians on how to get along with their ruling government.

“Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s,” Christ said, responding to a trap laid for him by the ruling priests, who asked whether the Jews should be paying taxes to the Roman Empire.

They had hoped Jesus would either say they shouldn’t pay tax, so that the authorities would arrest him, or that they should pay tax, so his growing number of followers would disown him.

The meaning of Christ’s answer continues to be debated

On one hand, Jesus is exposing the question’s false yes/no framing. Taken at face value, his response is simply that there is no sin in paying taxes and respecting earthly authority while also worshipping God.

Paul takes the statement one step further.

In a letter to the Romans, he informed early Christians that disobeying the government is tantamount to disobeying God.

“Whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted,”

he wrote

Paul sees no difference between governments, whether they are brutal dictatorships or the most inclusive democracy.

Governments in all form are all part of God’s plan, according to Paul, and it is not for people who truly fear and worship God to question divine will, even if the government persecutes believers.

Many Christians, particularly pacifists, follow this view, pointing out that by allowing himself to be crucified, Jesus literally gave unto Caesar what is Caesar’s (his mortal body) but gave unto God what is God’s (his immortal spirit).

But there is a significant segment of modern Christianity that interprets the words of Jesus and Paul differently

In this view, giving unto God what is God’s always trumps the edict of manmade laws.

Therefore, there is no sin in challenging and even defying the law if it interferes with worship and living a holy life.

This is where Christians are colliding,

A certain ordeal

Playwright Howard Barker, in a 2012 interview with The Guardian, said, “a good play puts the audience through a certain ordeal.”

In these unprecedented times (I’ll pause for a collective eye roll), we may feel all too accustomed to ordeals, but I think that right now Barker’s claim has special value. He goes on to declare, with thespian boldness: “I’m not interested in entertainment.”

Well, at Theatre NorthWest, entertainment is sort of our bread and butter But it’s a particular kind of entertainment the kind you don’t get sitting on the couch, three seasons into your second quarantine watch-through of The Office

It’s the kind of entertainment that’s also a communal experience, an ephemeral series of human connections played out on a stage. It’s entertainment that puts you through… not always an ordeal, but at least something. Something wonderful and ineffable.

Over this past year, theatre itself has been put through an ordeal. In a twist of dramatic irony, theatre has become ephemeral in a whole new way Countless shows across the world have been cancelled, many in the middle of a run I myself was performing on our stage last March when the proverbial crap hit the fan and UNBC Musical Productions was forced to cancel our second weekend of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. And then came the summer, and the disappointing absence of a Judy Russell Broadway blockbuster, a sorely missed

not just with one another but also with provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry. She has not allowed congregations to assemble in person for worship since November

That has led to a court challenge.

Meanwhile, in Alberta, Pastor James Coates was jailed for continuing to offer in-person worship services, sparking a protest with about 75 participants in front of Prince George city hall on Saturday.

One local pastor made a point of giving his name but not his affiliated church when speaking to a Citizen reporter at the protest, noting his parishioners are also divided on the issue.

In January, The Citizen published a letter to the editor signed by a local minister and 37 other faith leaders from around B.C. in support of Dr Henry’s orders

Perhaps the words and example of Christ offer a path forward on this thorny issue. After all, Jesus said “render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, AND (not or) unto God the things that are God’s.”

In other words, the two acts are not mutually exclusive and should be done simultaneously whenever possible

Any churches wishing to host in-person services should offer up a thorough safety plan for review to the provincial health officer, following the example set by many restaurants offering in-person dining.

tradition for so many in our community, whether onstage, backstage or in the audience.

The fall brought a glimmer of hope. Health orders at the time allowed for a series of limited-capacity stage readings TNW was grateful for the opportunity to safely bring in new groups of artists from the community, like Nechako Community Theatrics, to present plays that would otherwise not have graced our stage.

But as Robert Frost reminds us (or Ponyboy Curtis, if you like), “nothing gold can stay.” This endeavour was put on hold after November’s new restrictions were announced and now the theatre is quiet. Too quiet.

I was hired as TNW’s assistant general manager at the end of December. Now when I come into work, I walk past our empty stage and I’m filled with a dull grief. I pass through a certain ordeal, you could say

I remember the many times I have seen this stage decorated with set-pieces, full of light and life I remember the times I have performed here and the magic I experienced every time I did.

Many theatre organizations have begun streaming or recording plays in the

It’s the kind of entertainment that’s also a communal experience, an ephemeral series of human connections played out on a stage. It’s entertainment that puts you through… not always an ordeal, but at least something. Something wonderful and ineffable.

absence of live performances. This year even saw the birth of the world’s first crowd-sourced TikTok musical, Ratatouille, starring Wayne Brady and Adam Lambert, among others.

As has been repeated ad nauseum, this is certainly a time for innovation But TNW is not among those presenting digital content. There are many factors contributing to this decision, most of which are a little too technical to delve into here There are unions to consult, a lack of filmographic experience and equipment, and the health risks of bringing more individuals into our workspace, to name a few But perhaps the most overlooked reason we are not producing digital content is this: we are a theatre.

Church safety plans would also need to address issues around specific sacraments.

For example, how would confession be heard and holy communion offered? How would baptisms be conducted? What about singing and blessings given through the laying of hands?

In turn, the provincial health officer should be willing to assess church safety plans on a case-by-case basis and grant permission when the standards have been met to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

A blanket ban on all forms of indoor public worship is as unhelpful during this pandemic as throwing open the church doors and allowing worship without any public health restrictions.

If the shopping malls, the temples of modern consumerism, can find a way to remain open with COVID-19 protocols, there must be a way for places of worship to do the same.

Non-believers have their own pithy phrase that mirrors Christ’s words: you can walk and chew gum at the same time. Both sides should show a willingness to meet each other halfway to meet their needs, rather than fighting it out in court. That would allow all people of faith to render unto Dr. Henry’s what is Dr. Henry’s and render unto God what is God’s, while also offering health protection to everyone, believers and non-believers alike.

I do not besmirch any of the current or past attempts to approximate the joys of theatre in its conspicuous absence I myself am involved in a forthcoming digital performance project from UNBC Musical Productions But we should remember that these projects are something other than theatre.

Watching a reproduction of a performance on a screen might give us the quick fix we crave, but it will never be the full theatrical experience It will never be the right type of ordeal, one shared with friends and strangers in time and space, where actors and audience members are engaged together in that great unspeakable something.

Do you remember that feeling of live, in-person theatre? Do you remember the strange pull in your gut or the goosebumps on your arms? Maybe you don’t and I just need to FaceTime my doctor But if you do remember, don’t forget.

Hold onto that feeling, stay safe, and be well until a better time comes. We’ll be here when it does.

- Solomon Goudsward is the new assistant general manager of Theatre NorthWest. He is also a local actor, musician, and writer He has performed frequently with UNBC Musical Productions and once with Judy Russell Presents. His writing has been published with Thimbleberry Magazine and Dimensionfold Publishing. His first play, Smoke Sturgeon, was set to debut at Theatre NorthWest as a stage reading in November 2020, but was postponed due to that month’s provincial health order

Building permit values soaring

ARTHUR WILLIAMS

Prince George saw a 50 per cent increase in the value of building permits issued by local government last month, compared to January 2020

In January, the city issued $11.5 million in building permits, up from $7.7 million in 2020 and $4.5 million in 2019, according to a report presented to city council this week.

“We’re doing really well. The growth continues,” Coun. Garth Frizzell said.

“The piece that is leading the way is our multi-family dwellings.”

Last month, the city issued permits for seven multi-family developments, worth a combined $4.3 million, as well as a new duplex worth an estimated $914,596.

Permits for two new commercial buildings, worth a combined $2.1 million, eight commercial renovations, worth an estimated $1.5 million, and permits for three single-family homes, worth a combined $1.6 million, also contributed to the

monthly total.

A total of 32 permits were issued in January, down from 39 in 2020, but on par with 2019.

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George saw an 843 per cent jump in the value of building permits it issued in January, compared to the year before, according to a report presented the district board of directors last week.

The district issued 12 permits, worth of combined $1.8 million in January, com-

RUNNING ON MARSHALL STACKS

Studio 720 performs a few songs at CN Centre as part of the Prince George Community Foundation’s Prince George Live! fundraiser. The event raised more than $55,000

Judge dismisses entrapment claim

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A man remains guilty of selling drugs outside a local convenience store after his lawyer failed to convince a judge he was entrapped by undercover police officers posing as customers.

Douglas William Gibbs was arrested and charged after he sold heroin-fentanyl and methamphetamine for cash to the officers on Aug 29 and 30, 2018 outside the 7-11 at 20th Avenue and Spruce Street.

The officers were from out of town and had been brought in as part of an investigation that, at first, did not include

the spot. At issue was whether RCMP had reasonable suspicion to send in the officers.

During a trial last month, defence counsel Connor Carleton argued the grounds for the action were “too vague and soft.” In particular, he noted that in the lead up, an RCMP officer noticed suspicious activity but could not confirm an actual transaction had taken place nor provide a date for the sighting.

In a decision issued Monday, Provincial Court Judge Peter McDermick agreed that on its own, it was not enough to justify the move but noted it was not the

only reason the undercover officers were deployed to the spot.

People involved in drug trafficking and drug use were starting to spend time at the location, there were overt signs of intoxication by some of the people seen, drug paraphernalia was found in the parking lot and nearby alley and police were getting calls to the spot several times a day for drug-related issues, the court had heard.

“This was an address are or near the top of all calls for service,” McDermick said.

Sentencing will occur at a later date

pared to eight permits worth $218,000 in 2020 and 10 permits worth $712,000 in 2019.

The regional district issued a permit for a 3,000-square-foot building for parking fire response vehicles on Von Lienen Road in Hixon, worth an estimated $600,000.

Other permits of note included a new single-family home, worth an estimated $625,000, a new recreational cabin worth $250,000 and a pair of new accessory buildings worth a combined $288,000.

Motorhome slams into police vehicle

A person is in custody after allegedly trying to flee police while behind the wheel of a motorhome.

Police said the escapade started when a member of North District RCMP traffic services noticed the motorhome lacked licence plates and tried to pull it over near Fifth Avenue and Central Street.

Instead, the motorhome collided with the RCMP vehicle and kept going.

The police officer avoided serious injury and continued to follow the motorhome, which police said was being driven erratically and would not stop when the member activated his emergency lights.

Prince George RCMP were called into help while the driver continued to Haldi Lake Road, where he collided with a pickup truck at the intersection with Highway 16 West before finally stopping in the 9000 block of Haldi Lake Road.

The driver attempted to flee but was apprehended and remains in custody A passenger in the motorhome suffered injuries and was taken to hospital.

Police will be forwarding charges of flight from police, resist arrest and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle to the B.C. Prosecution Service for charge assessment. Police will also investigate the status of the driver’s license at the time of the offence.

Crash kills one

RCMP are seeking a witness to a fatal head-on collision on Highway 16 east of Fraser Lake last Monday evening

Called to the scene near the Dry William Lake rest stop at about 5:30 p.m., police said they were told a westbound pickup truck was attempting to overtake a logging truck using the passing lane but ran out of room and collided with a car in the oncoming lane

The car’s driver, a man in his forties from the Lower Mainland, died in hospital while the driver of the pickup truck, a 20-year old man from Alberta suffered serious injuries and remains in hospital, police said.

Police said they would like to speak to the driver of the logging truck, which had stopped, but departed the scene before police could speak with the driver

Anyone with information about this collision, including any dashboard camera video, is asked to contact North District RCMP’s regional traffic services at 250-6494004.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE/LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

MARK NIELSEN

Healthy Living

There is no vaccine forstigma: Newresource available

New resource highlightsstrategies to reduceCOVID-19 relatedstigma forIndigenouspeoples.

Public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have the potential to either generate or prevent stigma –something that has the potential to lead to discrimination, which can negatively impact health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

Anew resource is now available from the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH, nccih. ca/en/) and Northern Health that focuses on evidence-based recommendations to counteract COVID-19 related stigma in Indigenous, rural, remote, and Northern communities in Canada[1].

This review was collaboratively developed with expert guidance from members of the COVID-19 Public Health Working Group on Remote and Isolated Communities. This group is made up of several member organizations including:

•Assembly of First Nations

•Council of Yukon First Nations

•Dene Nation

•Department of National Defence

•First Nations Health Authority

•Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

•Government of Northwest Territories

•Government of Nunavut

•Government of Yukon

•Indigenous Services Canada

•Inuit and Tapiriit Kanatami[2]

•Métis National Council

•National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health

•Northwest Territory Métis Nation

•Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services

•Public Health Agency of Canada

•Saskatchewan Health Authority

Their mandate was to serve as aplatform to develop evidence-based recommendations and material on how to best counteract COVID-19 related stigma.

The report identifies and analyzes best practices to address stigma that have been used by Indigenous Peoples and communities during previous epidemics, pandemics, and infectious disease outbreaks. It also highlights gaps in knowledge and opportunities for future research.

By

The research was first conducted in May 2020 and repeated in October 2020 to include the most recent available evidence.

The authors identified, gathered, and analyzed atotal of 179 articles, then synthesized findings from 25 of those articles.

Six broad themes were identified from the literature review

These themes included:

•Pathogen factors

•Fear,anxiety,and misinformation

•Stigmatised identities

•Structural and systemic drivers

•Culture and community

•Public health and media

Stigma mitigation strategies identified in the literature included: providing education and information to address fear and anxiety,sharing personal stories to tackle stigma, and implementing systemic and structural plans to mitigate racism and stigma within workplaces (Ward &MacDonald, 2021).

There is alack of literature in relation to stigma, COVID-19, and Indigenous communities. However,there is much to be learned from the available evidence related to other infectious diseases and prior epidemics including the drivers and impacts of stigma. Eight broad recommendations are discussed including: developing context specific, strengths-based and resilience focused strategies; recognition of Indigenous People’s sovereign rights; and developing partnered approaches to create culturally specificstrategies to mitigate stigma.

The full report is available on the NCCIH website.

[1] Ward, V. and MacDonald, J. (2021). There is no vaccine for stigma: ARapid Evidence Review of stigma mitigation strategies during past outbreaks among Indigenous populations living in rural, remote and northern regions of Canada and what can be learned for COVID-19. Prince George, BC: National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health.

[2] While Inuit and Tapirit Kanatami are part of the COVID-19 Public Health Working Group on Remote and Isolated Communities, they do not endorse the document.

Shelby Petersen, Lead for Knowledge Translation and Community Engagement Indigenous Health, Northern Health.

SC OPES &P UZ ZLES

ACROSS

Seek the affection of

Marshes

Neighbor of Texas

Grand party

Toddler

Subside

Ruckus

To the briny

Hit hard 27. Took aload off

Ship

Curiously

Some are personal

Certain amphibian

Daddies

Pinch

Anguish

DOWN

10. Fish lung

11. Do in, as a dragon

16. Book of maps 19. Santa’s comment 20. Volcano output

21. Hired

22. Minus 24. “____ It a Pity?”

26. Blustered

27. Fodder storage area

28. Regretful word 29. Sort

PUZZLE NO.807

Chess piece

Hot spring

Sired

shape

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 with adarker line. You already have afew numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through 9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.

31. Preceding nights

33. Threaded nail

36. Consistent 38. Medicated spray

40. Two of akind 41. Shampoo ingredient

42. Bowler Weber

44. Teenage dance

45. Snakelike fish

47. Newton

48. Wool grower

49. Skipper’s diary

50. Lower limb

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING PUZZLE

CL ASSIF IEDS

HOURS: Monday-Friday8:30am -3:00pm •Closed 12:00pm -1:00pm forlunch OFFICE/PHONE ADS CLOSED SATURDAY &SUNDAY

DEADLINES: AD DEADLINE:FridayatNoon forthe following Thursday

In Memoriam

In Loving Memory of Troy Fontaine Jun 8, 1967 to Mar 8, 1990

Forever in my heart Love, Mom

Fischer Nov 14/35 - Mar 5/19

Vera Fischer Jul 3/37 - Mar 11/10

Always in our hearts. Love the Moonie’s

Obituaries

Douglas Neil Jacobson

September 28, 1942February 24, 2021

It is with profound sadness the family of Doug Jacobson announce his sudden passing at University Hospital of Northern B.C. on February 24, 2021.

He is survived by the love of his life Gwen Penner, sister Betty, his daughters Michelle (Neil) and Tannis, and sons Mike (Karen) and Doug, along with their families.

Long time resident of Prince George, Doug retired from Canfor as a millwright and was active in the community over the years. He worked tirelessly for Men’s golf at Aspen Grove Golf Course. He was a man of many talents and loved his garden, fishing, golf and woodworking. He delighted in sharing his garden produce with others. Gwen and Doug travelled to Yuma, Arizona every winter and he treasured his time there, playing pool and golf. He will be dearly missed by his many friends at Westwind in Yuma and here in Prince George. Gwen would like to thank the people that assisted at Westwood and Range Road, as well as the First Responders. Sincere gratitude to Dr. Kennedy and the Trauma team at UHNBC for their compassionate care of Doug. A celebration of life will be held later this spring.

Loving memories last forever. Happy golfing in heaven Doug!

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

1933-2021

Raffaello Valdarchi passed away in the early afternoon of February 23, 2021 at the age of 88 at Rotary Hospice House with his wife and son by his side.

In addition to his loving wife Janet and son Rick, he is survived by daughter-in-law Camilla and grandsons Braiden and Thomas, as well as brothers Antonio (Melbourne, Australia) and Franco, and sister Maria Teresa (Rome, Italy).

Raffaello emigrated from Rome via England with Janet and Rick in 1965. After brief stops in Toronto and Vancouver, the family settled in Prince George where Raffaello found employment at Northwood Pulp for over 28 years.

As many who knew him know, work was an interruption for his passion for soccer and hockey especially when Rick was involved. He spent many years coaching in the Prince George Minor Soccer Association and just as many years transporting Rick around the Province during hockey season. He often reflected on the time spent as a family involved with soccer and hockey. “Those were good days” he would say.

Retirement allowed him to spend all his time at his small farm where he dabbled with raising chickens, pheasants and pigeons.

The family would like to thank Eno Hansen for his incredible support over the last year, Marcella Berra for her continued support, as well as the wonderful ladies at the hospice house during his short time there.

In consideration of the COVID virus, the family will be holding a private service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you make a donation in remembrance of Raffaello to the Rotary Hospice House.

Ci vediamo Raffa. Forza Roma, forza Italia!!

Obituaries

Jan 26, 1946 - Feb 19, 2021

Glen “Moose” Scott, born January 26, 1946 went to be with the Lord on February 19, 2021.

Glen is survived by Patricia, his beloved wife of 44 years; his children Tammy Holmgren (Mike), Lisa Scott-Cooper (Albert), Christopher Scott (Annie); his grandchildren David, Landen, Mitchell, Ava, Jack; great-granddaughter Isabelle; as well as his brother David, mother-in-law Mary, brother-in-law Michael (Darlene) and aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friendships that most people could only dream to have in their lifetime.

Glen has always been a sports enthusiast and outside his family dedicated most of his life to lacrosse in Prince George and throughout the province, PGARA, Prince George Spruce Kings, West of the Rockies Rodeo, men’s baseball, flag football, skiing events along with his love for the Canucks, BC Lions, New York Yankees, and the Seattle Seahawks. Glens community involvement started during his career as a sports announcer for CJCI 620 (also where he met Patricia) but his commitment to Prince George didn’t stop at just sports. He was elected for two terms as a Counsellor for the City of Prince George, a long-time member of The Kinsmen Club, and no doubt you’ve seen him at a Steve Elliott, Elvis Elite or Thunderstruck -AC/DC Tribute performance over the years at the Treasure Cove Show Lounge. His passion and contributions to sports was recognized in 2014 when Glen was inducted into the PG Sports Hall of Fame.

Words can’t express our heartfelt gratitude to the health care workers that took such amazing care and compassion during Glen’s declining health. A sincere thank you to Dr. Fredeen, Dr. Brenckmann, Dr. Cosio and Dr. Shea, the nurses and doctors at the BC Cancer Centre for the North and to the home care support workers and nurses that were not just doing their jobs but became friends and part of our family. Also, to Father Andrii, Helena and their family for the endless prayers and support.

Due to COVID-19 a small private family funeral service was held and Glen was laid to rest on February 25, 2021 in Prince George, BC. It is our wish, as we know Glen would have wanted, to hold a celebration of life once restrictions on gatherings have been lifted.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the BC Cancer Centre for the North and/or The Kordyban Lodge.

In loving memory

Edward

Glen “Moose” Scott

Raffaello Valdarchi

In Memoriam

Czeslaw (Chester) Krawczyk

Feb 12, 1950Feb 3, 2021

Chester (Czeslaw) Krawczyk was called home by the Lord on February 3, 2021 at the Prince George Hospice House. Born February 12, 1950, he arrived in Canada with parents Cecylia & Eugene Krawczyk and older brother Ted in 1951, all of whom predeceased him.

Survived by loving wife of 47 years, Irene (nee Lumer) and loving daughter, Jennifer. Chosen father of Kris & Davena and chosen grandfather of Kaden, Kiana & Ethan. Celebration of life is to be held at a later date.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Rotary Hospice House.

September 13, 1950 - February 20, 2021

Bruce passed away at home after a two year battle with cancer. Bruce is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jean, daughter Erin, son Bryan (Staci) and 3 grandsons, Brody, Cole and Lucas.

Born in North Vancouver, Bruce and Jean moved to Prince George in 1974 with BC Tel then started his own company, Clarke Electric in 1980 later renamed NTI. Bruce loved hockey and was a lifelong fan of the Boston Bruins, and went to many local Cougar games. Golf was another passion, Wednesday men’s league at Aspen and many March months in Palm Desert.

We would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at the BC Cancer Clinic for their care and outstanding dedication to this horrible disease as well as the beautiful Pallative care nurses. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the BC Cancer Agency.

Kimberley Alexis Wyszynski

Nov 9, 1964 –Feb 21, 2021

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kimberley Alexis Wyszynski on February 21, 2021 at the age of 56, at the Prince George Hospice house with her best friend James Hunt by her side. She is survived by her two children Anje (Justin Sterling) McCusker of Tillsonburg and Nicholas McCusker of London. Her 5 Grandchildren

Justine, Damien, Sharlise, Nikole and Tylor. Dear sister to Pat (Scott) Bennett of Cambridge and Randy (Louise) Wyszynski of Cambridge. Dear Aunt to Cody, Courtney, Joshua and Bethany all of Cambridge. Kimberley is also survived by her loving mother Alice (nee Van Groenigen) Wyszynski of Cambridge. Predeceased by her loving father Rudolph Wyszynski. Kimberley was born November 9, 1964 in Cambridge, Ontario. She spent the last 28 years living in Prince George, British Columbia, where she enjoyed the scenery, mountains and the wildlife. She will be deeply missed by so many family and friends she made over the years. She will be remembered for her passion as a hair stylist, the love she had for her dogs, and especially the wildlife she observed and took many photos of in her own backyard. She would always talk of the bike rides and the road trips she would have with her best friend James. We will forever remember Kimberley for the life she lived and loved. We would like to thank her wonderful nurses, her Doctor, Devan Reddy and the wonderful ladies that cared for her at the Prince George Hospice House. In lieu of flowers the family would like all donations to be made to the Prince George Humane Society or The BC SPCA in honour Of Kimberley.

“Your life was a blessing your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and blessed beyond measure.”

Frances (Franny) May Ross

It is with unbelievable grief and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Frances May Ross (nee Fox) at the age of 71, in Prince George. We are grateful that Fran suffered through only a short illness.

Fran and I (Dave Ross) met at university, and married in 1972. Our 48 years of marriage were filled with love and adventure, and I will greatly miss my life partner. Fran will also be missed by her brother Don and beloved sister-in-law Joy, along with her daughters Tamara and Nicole, and her sons-in-law David Berg and Scott Merrifield. Grandma will be missed by her five cherished granddaughters, Kaitlyn, Jessica and Cora Berg and Hailey and Simone Merrifield, to whom she was devoted.

Fran was raised in a traditional family by Marg and Lloyd Fox in Vancouver. Lloyd built a home that he and Marg filled with love for six decades. Fran graduated from Gladstone Secondary School, after skipping grade nine, and attended UBC where she earned a Bachelor’s of Education. Fran served as a Counsellor for a year at Garibaldi Secondary School in Maple Ridge when she was only 21 years of age. She later counselled at Carson Graham Secondary School in North Vancouver while I worked on my Master’s Degree. We spent three years teaching in Terrace, where Fran served as a Counsellor at Caledonia Secondary School. It was in Terrace that we met many of our best friends, who we continue to travel with.

When we moved to Prince George in the mid-1970s we joined the Wildwood family (aka the Rangoon Racket Club), and Fran served as a Counsellor at Prince George Secondary School. She finished her teaching career in Learning Assistance and Senior Math at Kelly Road Secondary School. Fran was a devoted teacher who truly enjoyed her profession.

Fran was also a devout Catholic who not only followed her beliefs; she practiced them daily. After retiring from teaching Fran became more involved in the community and her church. She delivered books to shut-ins, volunteered with the Winter Games, and supported numerous community projects. The project which gave her the greatest pride was helping families from the Middle East settle in Canada.

Fran’s other major service commitment was to the St. Vincent De Paul Society. She was not only a Board member but was, at times, a daily worker. She loved her duties and was offended when anyone criticized the clientele. Fran devoted many hours to her church and community and received numerous awards for her community service and recognition from the School District.

While still teaching we took two years to travel with our children: first spending six months in the US, Mexico, Guatemala and Cuba in 1987-88, mostly in a camper; then traveling through the US and South East Asia (from Chiang Mai to Bali - by bus, train, boat and elephant) in 1993-94.

In retirement we continued to travel the world. At first we went to see world heritage sites: Petro, Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China and more. We realized that we were less interested in structures and more interested in people - who are all the same despite their skin tone, religious beliefs, and life style. We all share the goal of being able to look after our families and provide our children with the education and skills to build a good life. Every time we returned home we reflected on how fortunate we are to be Canadian.

Fran’s family will participate in a funeral Mass at her home church, Christ our Saviour Catholic Parish. We look forward to celebrating Fran’s life with her family, friends, and the many people whose lives she has touched, when COVID restrictions are lifted.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Fran’s name to the St Vincent De Paul Society of Prince George. Donations can be made by mail or online through CanadaHelps.org.

I encourage you to find an extra moment of kindness for your spouse, partner and family as our time with those we love can be unexpectedly short.

Bruce Ellis Clarke

Established Franchise Photography Business

Serving Northern B.C for over 35 years

Gross Revenues of $150.000 plus annually from seasonal work

Lots of opportunity to expand the business. Transition support available to the right buyer

Serious Enquiries Only

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BURNS LAKE NATIVE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

PO BOX 1030, BURNS LAKE, BC V0J 1E0 TEL 250-692-3188 • FAX 250-692-7483 EMAIL: ctom@blndc.ca

REQUEST FOR QUOTES

Burns Lake Native Development Corporation is looking for contractors to participate in an RFQ for a 60x80 industrial maintenance building in Burns Lake.

For more information, please contact Chantal Tom at ctom@blndc.ca or call (250) 692-3188 ext. 228. Deadline for submissions is Wednesday, March 31, 2021. PGYSA/PG IMPACT AGM

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Career Opportunities

SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR Centre

Dunkley Lumber Ltd.isamodernand efficientSPF dimension Sawmill &Planermill facilityatStrathnaver, 75 km south of Prince George,BC. Ourqualitylumber products aresold across North America and in overseas markets.You can find out moreabout us at www.dunkleylumber.com.

We currently have an opening foraSystems Administrator.

Key responsibilities include providing technical supportto employees,managing the hardwareand virtual ser verenvironment, managing the telephone system, maintaining user accounts and access privileges,executing system backup and recovery,network monitoring and security.

Thesuccessful candidate willpossess the following technical skills and experience:

•aBachelor ’s Degree or equivalentexperience

•proficientinmaintaining Microsoftdesktop and server operating systems

•experienceadministering ActiveDirectory

•experiencedeploying,maintaining and troubleshooting

VMware vSphere/vSAN

•ability to deal effectively with awide rangeofvendors and ser viceproviders

•exceptional communication skills

•outstanding problem solving and root cause analysis skills

•knowledge of backup systems and cybersecuritybest practices

•strong organizational skills with the abilitytoworkonprojects concurrently and under time constraints

•maintain up-to-date knowledgeofcurrent information technology

This position offers ahighly competitivewage andbenefits program.

If youpossess the noted qualifications and areinterested in joining Dunkley Lumber,please submit your resume via fax or email to the attention of :

HR Coordinator

Fax: (250) 998-4407

Email: hr@dunkleylumber.com

We thankall applicants in advance, however, only those selectedfor an interview will be contacted.foraninter viewwill be contacted.

Dollar SaverLumber has openings forthe following position:

•Mill Labourers

•Par t-Time Lumber Graders

Operator/Feeder

Must be able to lift 50lbs and be on your feet for8 hours

Please apply in person to: Dollar SaverLumber Attn: Ken 9359 Nor thernCres PrinceGeorge,BC or email keyles@lumber.ca

MECHANIC AL ENGINEER

Dunkley Lumber Ltd. is a modern and efficient SPF dimension

Sawmill & Planermill facility at Strathnaver, 75 km south of Prince George, BC. Our quality lumber products are sold across Nor th America and in overseas markets. You can find out more about us at www.dunkleylumber.com.

We currently have an opening for a Mechanical Engineer.

Key responsibilities include working with the maintenance depar tment and equipment providers to enhance the mechanical operation of existing equipment. As well, the successful candidate will be required to manage projects from feasibility study and conceptual design through to implementation, ensuring high quality standards are adhered to

The successful candidate for this position will hold a degree in mechanical engineering, experience in the design, analysis and drafting of machinery, strong written and verbal communication skills, sawmill industr y experience and technical training and ideally some experience in the following:

• SolidWorks c/w Product Data Management

• AutoCAD.

• Creaform VXelements

• Microsoft Project

• Enterprise Asset Management Software

• Microsoft Outlook, Work, Excel & Power Point

This position offers a highly competitive wage and benefits program.

If you possess the noted qualifications and are interested in joining Dunkley Lumber, please submit your resume in confidence to the attention of :

HR Coordinator

Fax: (250) 998-4407

Email: hr@dunkleylumber.com

We thank all applicants in advance, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Firewood

STUMP TO DUMP CONTRACTOR

Sheds/Outbuildings

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Property For Sale

Houses for Sale

Tips for a well-lit kitchen

If you’re in the process of remodelling your kitchen, remember that properlighting is key to creating a space that’s both pleasant and functional. Here are three bright tips to help you lightuptheheartofyourhome.

1.Start with the main light source. Install a main fixture that’s bright enough to light up the entire room effectively Make sure that the light source you choose is strong enough to create uniform lighting and eliminatedarkspots as much as possible without being too bright.

2.Targetstrategicspots.Makesurecertain strategic locations such as work surfaces, the stovetop and the sink are especially well lit to aid common kitchentasksandpreventinjuries.Choose fixtures that create targeted lighting,suchasspotlights,hanginglights orunder-cabinetlighting.

3.Don’t neglect esthetics. Above all, your kitchen’s lighting should be functional,butthatdoesn’tmeanthat youneedtosacrificestyle.Touryour local lighting stores to find visually appealing fixtures that will add personalitytoyourkitchen.

For a safe, functional kitchen, make sure work surfaces, the stovetop and the sink are well lit.

GO FOR GOLD.

Refresh your kitchen with the right hardware

A simple, cost-effective way to give your kitchen amini-makeoverisbychanging the knobs or handles on your cupboards and drawers. You’d be surprised how much of a difference this simple upgrade can make! But with so many styles to

choose from, how do you pick the right one?

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Beforeyoupurchaseyournewhandles,measurethedistancebetweenthe holes used to secure the current ones so that you can avoid drilling again. If your cabinet doors open back-toback,makesurethatthehandleswon’t knocktogetherifyouopentwocabinets at once. It’s also a good idea to test various knob, handle and pull options, as some are easier to manipulatethanothers,especiallyforpeople withlargerhands.

ESTHETIC CONSIDERATIONS

A copper finish for country decor, wide handles for a modern kitchen the hardware you choose should complement your kitchen’s colours and style. Make sure that their finish matches that of your plumbing fixtures, appliances and door hinges. Asforthevisualimpact of your new pulls, the choice is yours: should theyblendinorstandout?

How to paint metal

Have a metal surface to paint? Follow these steps to getthebestresults.

Firstoff,getridofanytracesofrust.To do this you can use a steel brush, an emeryboardorafile.Ifunsightlywelds are revealed in the process, sand them down until the metal is smooth. Certain householdchemicalsandproducts,such as phosphorus and oven cleaners, are alsousefulforgettingridofrust.

Next, clean the metal using a damp sponge, and then dry the surface with a cleancloth.Assoonasyou’redonecleaning don’t wait too long, as bare metal is quick to rust apply a coat of primer designed for metal and compatible with the paint you’ll be using. Once the base coat is dry (refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time), apply as many coatsofpaintasnecessary Youcanusearegularpaintbrush,butsprayingthepainton(eitherwithaspraygun or a can of spray paint) will prevent visible brush strokes.

paint dries more slowly than other finishes and makes fingerprints quite noticeable.

Thereyouhaveit:allthat’sleftistoadmiretheresult.

Glossy

Rediscover the decorative appeal of room dividers

Whether you’re looking to create a bit of privacy, reconfigure a spaceorevenaddadecorativetouchtoaroom,youjustmightfind thatthesolutionliesinagoodoldroomdivider

Roomdividersaremakingacomebackontheinteriordecorfront,asisapparent with the multitude of materials (bamboo, wood, metal, felt) and designs availableonthemarket.Thisversatileelementcanbeeitherdiscreetorimposing; sober or extravagant; rounded or square; massive or minimal. It can be cushioned,mirrored,equippedwithstorageorasbasicascanbe,equallyable toblendinorstandoutaccordingtoyourneeds.

A MULTIPURPOSE

ACCESSORY

Room dividers are a perfect, portable solution for adapting a space to your needs, whether that means separating areas in an open-plan loft or creating an office space inthelivingroom.Inaddition, they can help reduce drafts and maintain heat in a room. Easy as pie to set up and move around,thesehandyfaux walls can also be used to hidethenot-so-niceparts ofaroom.

Your guide to shopping for shelves

From classic straight shelves to wall-mounted cubes and modular models, shelving units of all kinds can provide the perfect blend of function and form for a room. So which type should you choose? Hereareafewtipstohelpyoushop.

INTENDED USE

The items you’ll place on the shelves will affect your choice of material (wood and shampoobottles,forexample,don’tgowell together) and style. After all, a shelf designedtosupportstuffedanimalsordelicate trinkets won’t withstand the weight of heavy books. Keep in mind that slotted shelving units (where the brackets are inserted into slots) are usually more solid than those with built-in brackets and that overloading your shelvescandamage yourwalls.

APPEARANCE

Of course, your shelves should harmonize nicely with

the overall design of the room. Wood shelves are a good choice for a rustic decor, colourful plastic shelves are great for a playroom, and metal shelves look nice in industrial settings. A word of advice: avoid texturedshelves,whichcollectatonofdust.

PLACEMENT

Finally, make sure that your shelves won’t getinthewayofopeningdoorsorwindows and that no one risks bumping into them or knockingovertheircontents.

Practical or decorative or both the room divider is making a comeback.

LEASE

and with

RV

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ESTATES

1,800 block of 1st Ave. Industrial zoned with RETAIL/OFFICE applications. Highway access. Various locations and sizes available.

How to get the cottagecore look at home

If you love wildflowers, crafting, embroidery, plants and a fairy tale-like esthetic, the cottagecore look may be right for you. This trendy style evokes the atmosphere, lifestyle and romanticism of English country houses. Fortunately, you don’t have to live in a literal cottage to get the look. Here’s how to bring this design style into yourhome.

THE WALLS

Tocreateadreamyand poetic atmosphere, paintthewallsinpastel tones. Alternatively, apply a flowery wallpaper. Just make sure the print isn’t too busy, as this can overwhelmthespace.

THE FLOOR

3 tips for savvier furniture shopping

niture made of these materials Vintage andantiquepiecesarealsoontheme.

THE ACCENTS

Whether it’s wood or ceramic, light flooring is a good fit for the cottagecore look. Ifyouaddarug,considerchoosingawhite orbeigemacramémodel.

THE FURNITURE

Wood,wicker,rattanandothernaturalmaterials contribute to a country esthetic Lookforchairs,tables,bedsandotherfur-

Floral prints and botanical fabrics will set therighttone.Plantsareamust,butconsider incorporating dried or fresh flowers into the space as well. Handmade items, vintage dishware and folk art pieces are alsoagoodfit.

To create the cottagecore look in your home, visit shops and antique dealers in yourarea.

When furnishing a room, a little planning goesalongway Mostimportantly,ithelps you avoid making impulse purchases and selecting furniture that’s the wrong size. Here are some tips to help you make the righthomedecorchoices.

1. IDENTIFY YOUR PRIORITIES

Beforeyoustartfurnitureshopping,list everythingyouneedinorderofimportance.Thiswillhelpyoudeterminehow muchofyourbudgettoputtowardeach item Forinstance,ifyouhavetroublesleeping,youmaydecidetosplurgeonyour mattressratherthanonadresserorvanity. Or,ifyouworkfromhome,youmaywant tospendalittleextra onanergonomic officechair.

2. LOOK FOR DEALS

Once you’ve planned your purchases, it’s time to bargain hunt. Be on thelookoutforsales and promotions, but keep in mind that sometimesyouneed to be patient to take advantage of the best discounts. If the item you’ve set yoursightsonisunlikely to drop in price, see if your

local retailers can suggest solutions. For example,youmaybeabletoget adealon display models or pieces that have slight imperfections.

3. THINK LONG-TERM

Make smart investments by choosing styles that have a timeless look and don’t merely reflect the current fad. If you want to indulge in a few trendy pieces, opt for inexpensive items that you can sell or donateinafewyears.

Finally, consider making an effort to buy locally Youdon’thavetogofartofindtalented furniture makers and well-curated furniturestores.

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Four decorating tips for a stylish hallway

Decorating a hallway can prove quite challenging, especially if it’s particularly long and narrow.Add some character to this oft-neglected part of your homewiththesesimplestyletips.

1.Be bold with patterns and colours. Havefunwithtexturesandcoloursto give your hallway some personality. When choosing your paint or wallpaper, keep in mind that light colours suchaspastelpink,skyblueandpale greenaregreatforachievingabright, luminous atmosphere, while darker tones like deep purple, navy blue and pinegreencreateamorecozyfeel.

2.Showcase your art collection. Why not transform your hallway into a custom miniature art gallery? Personalize the space with a family photo wall, or frame different sizes of artworkforaneclecticlook.

3.Createstoragespace.Makethemost ofunderusedspacebyequippingyour hallwaywithshelves,hooksandother storagesystems.Justbecarefultonot clutter the area or impede circulation through the hallway with items that aretoobulky

4.Light it up. If your hallway is stuck in the shadows, make it more inviting by adding some light fixtures. Create a warm atmosphere with a classic ceiling light, or put up some string lights for a fairy-taleglow.

This nicely updated,three-suite, multi-family homeonalarge lot is steps awayfrom the river and Paddlewheel Park. These units have beenupdated in the past five years with newer hot water tank. This large lot with two sheds makesfor agreat outsidespace

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