Prince George Citizen September 23, 2021

Page 1


‘I

think we have work to do’

TED CLARKE

After 10 years on the job, a new decade is dawning for Prince George-Peace River MP Bob Zimmer.

As expected, the 52-year-old from Fort St. John was re-elected handily for a fourth term in Monday’s federal election. With 207 of 225 polls reporting, Zimmer had 19,210 votes (59.2 per cent), comfortably ahead of NDP candidate Cory ‘Grizz’ Longley, with 4,913 votes (15.1 per cent).

People Party of Canada candidate Ryan Dyck, 3,134 votes (9.7 per cent) moved into third place ahead of Liberal Amir Alavi, with 3,055 (9.4 per cent); followed by Catharine Kendall, Green, with 1,236 votes (3.8 per cent); David Jeffers, Maverick, with 868 votes (2.7 per cent); and Phil Hawkin, Canada’s Fourth Front, with 38 votes (0.1 per cent).

“It’s just a really good show of support for us and we appreciate everybody’s votes today, you just never know how

elections turn out and I’m just so thankful for the support we have going into the fourth term,” said Zimmer. “I think we have work to do. We’ve seen some of the other groups who have drawn Conservative votes and we have work to do just to gain those voters’ trusts and obviously across Canada we have work to do to even form a minority government. Being 10 years on the job, I’ve learned how to make a difference...”

See ‘I’m the,” page 3

For a seventh straight federal election, the Cariboo-Prince George riding is staying blue as it has once again voted in a Conservative Member of Parliament.

Todd Doherty will be serving his third term for the riding which serves a population of about 108,907 in the north-central interior of B.C. after winning around 50 per cent of the vote Monday night.

“I think being elected for a third time is an incredible honour,” said Doherty, surrounded by his family at the Courtyard MarriotinPrinceGeorgeonelectionnight.

However, with national results showing a Liberal minority government similar to federal election results in 2019, Doherty remains in the same position as a member of the official opposition.

“People were frustrated we were in the middle of an election to begin with. I think overwhelmingly that was the message ‘why are we in this election?’,” said Doherty. “I think this was a huge waste of money. Think about what that money could have went to and the good that it could have done across our nation.”

Doherty added that the campaign was more divisive than 2019 as he experienced slashed tires, sign vandalism and threats.

“We can disagree with one another but the threats of violence is unacceptable, so it has been really tough.”

However, Doherty said he is eager to get back to Ottawa and bring the feedback he’s learned from this campaign See ‘I want,’ page 3

$2.00

HANNA PETERSEN
CITIZEN PHOTO BY HANNA PETERSEN
ALL SMILES Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty with his family on election night at the Courtyard by Marriott.
CARIBOO-PRINCE GEORGE

TAXSALE OF LANDS

PursuanttoSection 254ofthe CommunityCharterand Section 645 and 647 (1) of the Local GovernmentAct,noticeisherebygiven thatthe CityofPrinceGeorge Annual TaxSale will be held on September 27, 2021 at 10:00am in the Council Chambers at CityHall,1100 Patricia Boulevard, PrinceGeorge,BC. Unless full paymentofthe outstanding delinquenttaxes,plus the necessary interest to date of paymentisreceived prior to the aforementioned time and date,the following properties shall be offered forsale by public auction: NoticetoProspectivePurchasers:

Contact news@pgcitizen.ca or 250-562-2441

NEWS Got News?

‘I want people to know who their member of parliament is’

From page 1

“I want to make sure that I am taking back the feedback that we heard on the doorsteps from those other candidates and be better,” said Doherty.

“I want people to know who their member of parliament is and to feel comfortable they can walk up and talk and ask questions – the message that we heard from some of the candidates was they didn’t feel that way so I think we can take from this and make sure we are doing better the next time.”

Doherty’s career in politics has seen him responsible for presenting and passing Bill C-211, which encompasses the federal framework to address the challenge of those people in service dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

He is also known for his advocacy for mental health. In 2020 Conservative leader Erin O’Toole named Doherty special advisor to the leader on mental health and wellness in the shadow cabinet.

Polling in second place was NDP candidate Audrey McKinnon. It was a first-time federal race for McKinnon who gained more than 20 per cent of the vote Monday night.

The former CBC reporter, now in communications, had been motivated to run in the federal election because of her experience living in poverty as a single parent.

“It’s a lot of work to be a candidate and

to run a campaign and I’m just really grateful to everybody who contributed to the campaign,” said McKinnon. “We did absolutely everything that we could in 36 days which is a very short window of time.”

McKinnon also noted frustration with national results projecting another Liberal minority government.

“Well, it was an unnecessary election and I think the results proved that as the Liberals and Conservatives have gained almost nothing at this point and I can say I’mproudthattheNDPlookstobeincreasing,” said McKinnon. “And unfortunately, this has cost all of us a lot of money.”

Monday night results showed the NDP winning 27 seats which is an increase from 2019’s 24.

“I believe that there is a lot of progressive support in this riding and that we have a lot of work to do to let people know that we’re here,” added McKinnon, about the gains the NDP made in Cariboo-Prince George. “That’s what I’m willing to do and it’s what I’ve been trying to do for the last thirty-sixdaysistogetoutthereandspeak to as many people and let them know that there is a better alternative,” said McKinnon before thanking everyone she’d met on doorsteps, over the phone or on social media.

NOTICE OF INTENTION

NOTICE OF INTENTION

TO AMEND “CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE COUNCIL PROCEDURES BYLAWNO. 8388, 2011” (Pursuant to Section 124 of the Community Charter)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Council of the City of Prince George (the “City”) intends to consider “City of Prince George Council Procedures Bylaw No. 8388, 2011, Amendment Bylaw No. 9250, 2021” at its regular meeting scheduled for Monday,October 4, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC.

Bylaw No. 9250, 2021 if adopted, would amend “City of Prince George Council Procedures Bylaw No. 8388, 2011” as follows:

1. revising the definitions of “committee” and “corporate officer”;

2. revising the “Acting Mayor” section to permit their participation in any Committee on which the Mayor is appointed;

3. revising the section on “electronic participation by members” to permit use of electronic or other communication facilities (i.e. Zoom or other web based meeting platform) to enable Council to hear or watch and hear each other and to enable the public to hear or watch and hear the participation of Council during the Council, Committee meeting or Public Hearing;

4. removing the requirement of the number of members of Council who must be physically present at the meeting and thereby removing the limit to the number of members of Council who may participate electronically in aCouncil meeting;

5. permitting the electronic participation of amember of Council in all aspects of aregular or special Council meeting on the condition that any late agenda items or other items involving written handout materials that arenot included in the electronic agenda have been provided to the members participating electronically in advance of the meeting;

6. reducing the time for the Mayor or acting Mayor to attend the meeting to 15 minutes of the scheduled time;

7. reducing the time that Council must wait for quorum to be established beforeadjourning the meeting to 15 minutes of the scheduled time;

8. revising the section on “Order of Proceedings and Business” to clarify the time in which the electronic agenda will be made available to members of Council and the public in advance of scheduled regular Council meetings;

9. revising the section on “Delegations to Council” by amending the deadline for submitting awritten request to the Corporate Officer,by12:00 noon on the Monday two weeks prior to the Monday on which the next regular meeting is scheduled, adding anew subsection that Council must not permit a delegation to address ameeting of the Council regarding matters related to alegal action involving the City,and removing the subsection regarding “chauffer’spermit appeal hearings”; and 10. various housekeeping updates for clarity,consistency and improved interpretation.

HOW CAN IPROVIDE COMMENT?

Residents areinvited to provide comment in writing.

‘I’m the orange, long-haired freaky person and I came in second’

From page 1

“You just have to push and work hard and I’ve seen it work. We were hoping to make that difference as government, but we will continue on working for the people of Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies,” Zimmer added.

Justin Trudeau fell short of his goal of the 170 seats needed to gain a majority but Canadians, who struggled with the idea of an election during the fourth wave of the pandemic, have re-elected Trudeau’s Liberals for a third consecutive time. As they did in 2019, the Liberals will form a minority government, with the Conservatives as the official opposition in Parliament.

The Conservatives gained 34.07 per cent of the popular vote, compared to the Liberals 31.98 per cent, but it wasn’t enough to defeat them.

“I think once again it’s that whole popularity – we got Canadians’ support but it didn’t come out on the seat count – and we saw that last time,” said Zimmer. “We

have some work to do in some areas we haven’t won this time. It’s a very tired Liberal government and we need to be seen as the government in waiting and the people will trust us to give us their vote.

He said his priority and that of his party will be to kickstart the national economy that’s suffered greatly during a pandemic that’s dragged on since March 2020. Longley, in his first election, was elated to finish second to Zimmer in the Prince GeorgePeace River-Northern Rockies vote.

“After 50 years of Conservatives in this riding and me running against six other candidates, I’m the orange, long-haired freaky person and I came in second,” said Longley, who plans to return to his job as a pipefitter for the City of Dawson Creek.

“If you look at the numbers from tonight, I am taking nothing but victory, that’s exactly what this is for the NDP.”

Submissions in writing

Written comments should be forwarded to the Corporate Officer by 5:00 p.m., Tuesday,September 28, 2021,tobeincluded in Council’sagenda package. Submissions received after this time will be provided to Council on Monday,October 4, 2021,the day that the proposed bylaw will be considered. Submissions may be sent by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, faxed to (250) 561-0183, mailed or delivered to the address noted below

Please note that written submissions for the proposed bylaw will form part of the Council agenda, become public recordand areposted on the City’swebsite. Written submissions must include the writer’sfull name and mailing address. By making awritten submission you areconsenting to the disclosureofany personal information that you provide.

Authority

Personal information is collected under the authority of section 26(g) and disclosed under the authority of section 33.1(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). For information or questions, contact the City’sFIPPACoordinator at 250-561-7600 or 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, British Columbia, V2L 3V9.

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

Acopy of the proposed bylaw and other related documents will be available for review by the public at the Legislative Services Division on the 5th Floor of City Hall on September 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, and October 1and 4, 2021,between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

WHO CAN ISPEAK TO?

For moreinformation on the proposed bylaw please contact the Legislative Services Division in person at the address below,bytelephone (250-561-7793) or by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

This is the first of two (2) publications of this notice.

Dated this 23rdSeptember,2021

Man charged with arson in deadly fire

Fire at the Econolodge Motel in July 2020 claimed three lives

almost immediately.

RCMP have charged a man with arson and criminal negligence causing death in connection with a motel fire that killed three people in July 2020.

Justin Kyle Aster, 35, is facing three counts of criminal negligence causing death, one count of arson in relation to an inhabited property and one count of arson damaging property.

The fire at the Econolodge Motel, located at 910 Victoria St., broke out sometime before 9 a.m. on July 8, 2020.

Roughly two dozen people were evacuated from the motel, but three people died in the blaze.

A police investigation into the fire began

“Investigators in our Serious Crime Unit have put many long hours into this file and are proud to be able to bring a suspect forward to the courts in relation to these three tragic deaths,” Prince George RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jennifer Cooper said in a press release.

Aster will remain in custody until his next court appearance. Aster is known to police, an RCMP statement said.

In May, Aster was sentenced to 18 months probation for breaking and entering, mischief $5,000 or under, two counts of theft $5,000 or under and three counts of possessing or using a stolen credit card.

He’d spent a total of 127 days in custody prior to sentencing.

Take Back the Night in-person event tonight

The annual Take Back the Night event that raises awareness to stop violence against women will take place Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and starts at Canada Games Plaza.

After speakers say a few words, including Mayor Lyn Hall, there is a march that starts at 7 p.m. which loops around downtown, making a quick stop on the front lawn of City Hall for a minute of silence, then goes back at Canada Games Plaza to end the event.

This is the 30th annual walk that honours the memory of those women who have not survived violence and to celebrate those who have, organizer Lori Armstrong said.

“And we demand an end to all forms of violence against women,” Armstrong said. The march itself is exclusively for persons who identify as women and for children, while other supporters are invited to stay at the plaza until their return.

“We can and should be able to walk down the streets of our city safely and on our own – and we intend to do just that,” Armstrong said.

Because of the pandemic last year’s event was virtual so this in-person gathering feels especially important, she added.

“We’re really excited that on our 30th anniversary we actually get to march this year,” Armstrong said.

For more information email pgtakebackthenight@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/tbtnpg.

CITIZEN STAFF
CITIZEN FILE PHOTO
Justin Kyle Aster has been charged with arson and criminal negligence causing death in connection to the July 8, 2020 fire at the Econolodge Motel that claimed three lives.
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

The Nahoonai-a Indigenous student housing facility officially opened at the College of New Caledonia on Friday.

Indigenous student housing opens at College of New Caledonia

CITIZEN STAFF

The College of New Caledonia officially opened a 12-unit Indigenous student housing facility at its Prince George campus on Friday.

Construction of the Nahoonai-a building was completed in October 2020, but delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic meant students couldn’t begin moving in until the start of the 2021 fall semester.

The name, which means “to find” or “to rediscover,” was chosen by Lheidli T’enneh elder Josie Paul.

“The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation is very pleased to help open the new Indigenous student housing complex at the College of New Caledonia. We thank the provincial government for its investment to create safe housing for Indigenous students,” Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan said in a press release. “Our Nation is also honoured to have been part of the design and naming process for the new complex. CNC recognizes the value in working with its First Nations partners and we salute CNC for taking this approach.”

The fully-furnished building is located next to the existing student housing on campus, and features a shared kitchen, living area, washrooms and laundry facility. Two of the 12 rooms in the building have additional accessibility for students with mobility challenges.

“Nahoonai-a creates an opportunity for reconciliation and a sense of home for students who may be coming from out of town, the same way I did in 2016.”

“I am confident Nahoonai-a will provide a welcoming and supportive home for students as they achieve their goals,” CNC president Dennis Johnson said in a press release. “I am also grateful for all those who have helped Nahoonai-a to become a reality.”

CNC Students’ Union membership outreach co-ordinator Damon Robinson said the new student housing will be a benefit for Indigenous students at the college.

“As a Gitxsan, it is heartwarming to see the acceptance and accommodation for Indigenous students attending CNC,” Robinson said in a press release. “Nahoonai-a creates an opportunity for reconciliation and a sense of home for students who may be coming from out of town, the same way I did in 2016.”

The B.C. government provided $5.3 million in funding to develop the Indigenous student housing.

There is a two-room suite for an elder, who will live on site as a student mentor and advisor.

Celebrating

Province announces funding for health care recruiting in the north

YEARS OF SERVICE

Join us in celebrating 50 years of Handy DartService in the City of Prince George.

October 1, 2021

Drop in between Noon and 5:30 pm in our yard at 2832 Queensway Street

EnjoyaBBQ burger or hotdog,abeverage and CAKE!!

“Compliments of CarefreeSociety”

Free ridesare available forregisteredHandy Dart clients. Call250-562-1394 well in advancetobook your ride.Spaceislimited. Masksare required.

Markets

SATURDAY,OCTOBER 2, 2021

Downtown Prince George invites youto celebrate fall in anothernew way!

Stroll the downtownstreets to find the fresh seasonal flavours of our twofarmer’s markets. New this year... the 4th Avenue Merchantswill have their own special street market.

ARTHUR WILLIAMS

The provincial government announced $6.38 million in funding to help attract and retain healthcare workers in northern B.C.

Health Minister Adrian Dix announced the funding on Sept. 14, along with plans to convert 24 on-call ambulance stations in rural B.C. communities into full-time stations and enhance ambulance service at 26 others.

“These announcements come at an important time in health care across the north…” Dix said “We want people to have decades-long careers (in health care) in the north, not just stay a few years and move on.”

The funding includes plans to develop housing and childcare programs in northern communities were lack of affordable housing and childcare are barriers to retaining healthcare professions, including Kitimat, Hazelton, Prince Rupert, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek and Fort St. John.

-2:00pm

Those stations will be staffed with eight full-time paramedics each. That includes ambulance stations in Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Houston, Vanderhoof, Chetwynd and Fort Nelson.

The funding will support the continuation of the Travel Resource Programs which supports the work of more than 40 registered nurses and licenced practical nurses, and the creation of a Rural Urgent Doctor in-aid (RUDi) program to support doctors in rural communities.

Money will also be used to create clinical management supports for Prince Rupert and the northeast, and stabilize care at Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace.

Northern Health board chairperson Colleen Nyce said recruiting health care professionals is a challenge throughout the country, but especially in northern and remote communities.

“We are working to make it easier for staff and their families to relocate or stay in northern communities,” Nyce said.

Communities in the north have a role to play, she added.

Health professionals aren’t just looking at the hospital or clinic where they will work, but the “community and lifestyle” the north offers, she said.

RURAL AMBULANCE SERVICE EXPANDED

In addition to the healthcare initiatives in the north, Dix announced plans to increase ambulance service at 50 locations in rural B.C.

The announcement was an expansion of the commitment the province made in July to enhance ambulance service in the province, following a deadly heatwave that overtaxed the B.C. Emergency Health Services’ ability to respond.

In October, 24 stations currently staffed by on-call paramedics will be upgraded to provide 24-hour-a-day service seven days per week.

In November, increased paramedic staffing will be provided at 26 smaller ambulance stations, including Bear Lake, Dease Lake, Granisle, Hudson’s Hope, Stewart, and Wells.

“When you need an ambulance, that service is the most important service government provides,” Dix said. “We’re making a significant commitment to improve ambulance service in B.C.”

In July, the province committed to hiring 85 new full-time paramedics in communities including Prince George, Kamloops and the greater Vancouver area. Prince George was slated to receive eight additional paramedics.

Interim chief ambulance officer for BCEHS Leanne Heppell said she is listening to paramedics on the front lines and hearing about the fatigue and daily challenges they face. But also determination to continue serving the people of B.C., she added.

“We are on track with filling new paramedic and dispatch positions and I know this is going to create more stability in our staffing and improve our emergency medical response and our community paramedic services in rural and remote B.C. in particular,” Heppell said.

“We are also working to make BCEHS a truly great employer where our employees are healthy and supported in their important work caring for patients. We are on track with filling the new paramedic and dispatch positions, and I know this is going to create more stability in our staffing and improve our emergency medical response and our community paramedic services in rural and remote B.C.”

HEALTH

BC HYDRO’S FISCAL 2023to FISCAL2025RATE APPLICATION

On August31, 2021,BCHydro filedits F2023toF2025 RevenueRequirementsApplication (RateApplication) with theBritishColumbia Utilities Commission(BCUC),seeking approvalof anet bill decreaseof1.4%effective April1,2022, followed by netbill increasesof2%effective April1,2023 and2.7%effective April1,2024.

TheBCUCencouragesallthoseinterestedinthe RateApplicationtosharetheirfeedback andinput by getting involved in theproceeding.

HOWTOPARTICIPATE

Submita letterof comment

Registerasaninterestedparty

Requestintervenerstatus

IMPORTANTDATES

Tuesday,September28,2021 –Deadlinetoregisterasan intervener with theBCUC

More information aboutthe RateApplicationcan be found at www.bcuc.comonourCurrentProceedingspage.

For more information on how to getinvolved, pleasevisit our website(www.bcuc.com/get-involved)orcontact us atthe information below.

GETMOREINFORMATION

BC HydroRegulatory&RatesGroup 16thFloor,333 Dunsmuir Street Vancouver,BCV6B 5R3

E:bchydroregulatorygroup@bchydro.com

P:604.623.3726

BritishColumbiaUtilitiesCommission Suite410,900 HoweStreet Vancouver, BC V6Z2N3

E:Commission.Secretary@bcuc.com

P:604.660.4700

WELCOME DUSKOTRIVIC

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Duskojoins our Dignity Memorial team as aFamily ServiceAdvisor thatspecializes in allaspects of Funeral Pre-planning and willbeavailable to answerany questions PrinceGeorge residents mighthave. Originally from Croatia Duskojoined this profession afterlosing his belovedwifeSuzan 5years ago and is eager to share his knowledge and compassion with our community.

Glenn JohnstonGeneral Manager

Back to School

PGSS students asked to list positive impacts of colonialism

Students at Prince George Secondary School (PGSS) were asked to list the ‘positive and negative’ impacts colonies had on Indigenous peoples in a grade nine social studies class.

Candace Aksidan, who is Nisga’a and a mother of one of the students in the class, shared her concerns on TikTok about how the assignment impacted her son.

“I am fuming,” said Akisdan in the video.

“He was upset with one of the worksheets handed out in his class. What it was ‘list the positive impact of colonies –which is colonization – and the negative impact of colonies. My son is very well aware of colonization and the impacts that it has had on Indigenous people and it breaks my heart and it pisses me off that he felt like he couldn’t speak up.”

This incident comes just days after Trent Derrick, former chair and Valimohamed former vice-chair of School District No. 57’s (SD57) Board of Education announced their resignations in the wake of a Special Advisor’s Report that found systemic anti-Indigenous racism and a “substantial culture of fear” within the district.

In February, B.C. Minister of Education Jennifer Whiteside ordered an investigation into governance practices in SD57 and appointed two special advisors to the board and the report was released in late August.

The report also found that Indigenous students are disproportionately held back, placed in alternative programs and removed from the typical graduation path.

Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan was asked about the PGSS incident during a press conference this morning (Sept. 15) regarding the recent resignations and the Special Advisor’s Report.

“I just heard about this maybe 20 minutes ago and I was appalled. Why would somebody put that out there? What’s the positive and negative impacts of colonlialism? There is no positive,” said Logan.

“There is no positive at all and why would you? We are trying to stop racism and this is just feeding it.”

She added that her granddaughter has experienced similar situations at PGSS, and knows that “racism is alive and well” from her experiences attending the former Kelly Road Secondary School.

An assignment handed out to Grade 9 students at Prince George Secondary School as students to list the benefits of colonization for Europeans, European settlers and Aboriginal peoples.

resources and activities chosen to teach that curriculum.”

School District assistant superintendent Kap Manhas said SD57 is deeply sorry for any harm that this has caused to the students, parents, families Indigenous communities.

“This assignment is not a reflection of our teachers or our commitment to truth and reconciliation. We are working through a restorative process with the parents, the teacher, the principal and our resource staff to apply safeguards to ensure this does not happen again,” added Manhas.

“I also realize that saying ‘We’re sorry’ isn’tenough.Weneedtoputactionbehind those words,” said Heitman.

SD57 says that as part of its five-year strategic plan it is implementing a number of strategies meant to ensure Indigenous voices are heard.

The district says these include:

• Reviewing resources to ensure they are culturally sensitive

• Increasing elders and knowledge holders in schools to support and mentor staff in the education of residential schools, Indigenous culture and Indigenous languages.

• Reviewing curriculum to indigenize with local content and decolonize to allow academics to be learned through a cultural and inclusive lens.

“It’s condoning racism to me and I’m very proud of the person who is standing up. She is doing it as a parent with concerns. This is what we need is the parents to help the kids stand up.”

SD57 has said the intent of the assignment was to spark a conversation about the negative impacts and enduring effects of colonization.

“This is not an issue of curriculum,” said acting superintendent Cindy Heitman in a statement, “this is an issue with

• Providing – and emphasizing – professional learning to staff about Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and Trauma Informed approaches.

• Developing an education council of First Nations leaders, elders and the K-12 system leaders to discuss education within learning communities. In short “Nothing about us, without us.”

SPORTS

Local athlete breaks B.C. throws pentathlon record

TED CLARKE

As a supervisor at London Drugs, Joan Harris gets a daily workout moving heavy boxes of items out to the shelves where they will be seen by customers.

At the risk of breakage, she doesn’t throw that merchandise around. She’s strong enough to subdue a shoplifter, but that’s not in her job description.

But when it comes to throwing things with intent, as Harris proved a couple weekends ago in Vernon, she’s one of the best in the province. The 59-year-old Prince George Track and Field Club member proved her versatility at pitching five different kinds of weighted objects and set a provincial record in the Masters throws pentathlon for women in her 55-59-yearold age class at the Cory Holly Classic Throws Challenge in Vernon.

“It’s such an empowering feeling, throwing things,” said Harris. “It kind of doesn’t matter how old you are, you can still throw things.

“I didn’t have any idea about the record, I just never thought that way, but my other competitors were tracking me behind the scenes and not letting me know. It wasn’t until the last event, when I threw the weight throw and I said ‘oh, that’s a

personal best for me,’ they said I broke the pentathlon record too. I’m pretty sure my mouth dropped open. In my mind, I never

thought I’d be close to a record, I was just focused on every meet being better than the last meet.”

The throws pentathlon involves discus, shot put, javelin, hammer throw and weight throw and Harris totaled 2,764 points to smash the former record of 2,632, set last year by Citizen reporter Christine Dalgleish (nee Hinzmann).

Harris set PBs in weight throw (8.35 m), shotput(8.25metres),hammertoss(26.32 m), and discus (21.49 m). The javelin went 21.10 m, not quite up to the distances she hit her first year on the throwing circuit.

“ThefirstyearIhad(formerPGTFCpresident) Tom Masich training me and I don’t know what he was telling me but it was working,” said Harris. “Next year’s goal is to maybe hit that PB from four years ago when it was close to 24 metres. It was so natural the first year but now I don’t come close. The other throws I’m getting better and it’s just muscle memory. You just spin and your body knows what you’re doing. The javelin is kind of awkward and I haven’t figured out the muscle memory and the footwork.”

See ‘You should,’ page 10

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE
Joan Harris, member of the Prince George Track & Field Club, throws the hammer during a practice held at Masich Place Stadium
‘You should never think you can’t do something because you’re older’

From page 9

“You have to run sideways over your feet and plant and throw,” she added. Discus used to be the event that made her cringe, but she’s worked on it constantly this summer in practice at Masich Place Stadium and at Lac des Bois school field and the results are paying off.

in the ring and punch an opponent, but for the fitness benefits.

“It gets more complicated as you get older and you can’t just find somebody that weighs the same as you and fight, you would have to find another old lady like me,” laughed Harris

Harris works with a coach (Sasha) at Black Belt Biomechanics, who teaches functional patterns and how to incorporate spinning movements while holding weighted cables and other weight apparatus and that’s helped her develop throwing strength and flexibility.

“I can’t tell you how many discuses I’ve thrown to try and figure it out, and it’s now getting closer to one of my favourite things to throw, not my embarrassment,” said Harris. “You just have to keep doing the same thing over and over again and just hope that comes into play when it’s a meet. We’re all famous for the best throws in practice. You should never think you can’t do something because you’re older or you haven’t done it before. You just have to get out there and do it.”

Harris grew up in Nelson as a swimmer and cross-country runner and played competitive softball, badminton and volleyball. In her high school days, she competed in track and field running and jumping events but was never a thrower until she signed up for the 55+ BC Games four years ago in Cranbrook. She’s been hooked on throwing ever since.

“I did some running and throwing at the 55+ BC Games, but the throwing was so much more fun,” said Harris Harris also trains in boxing – not to get

This year she competed in four meets, starting with a virtual interclub competition at Masich Stadium in May, and was also part of the Sub-Zero Meet in Prince George and the BC Masters Track and Field Championships in Surrey. After competing at the 2019 55+ BC Games in Kelowna, Harris was set for the 2020 Canadian 55+ Games in Kamloops but it was cancelled because of COVID and cancelled again this past summer. She‘s planning to be there next year when she turns 60.

Current PGTFC president Elena Thomas and Dalgleish also represented the club at the Cory Holly meet. In the weight throw event, Dalgleish grabbed on to the triangular handle and tossed the 16-pound iron ball 9.64 m, eclipsing her own B.C. record of 9.55 m.

Left to right: TedClarke(PG Citizen), Josh Dixon (Associate Coach), Hudson Thornton, Connor Bowie,Fischer O’Brien, Keaton Dowhaniuk,and Mark Lamb (Head Coach &General Manager).

Marques a marquee junior hockey prospect

If the Prince George Spruce Kings had their druthers, Miguel Marques would be playing junior A hockey for them fulltime this season.

The kid who grew up in the Heritage neighbourhood on Pilot Street in Prince George is that good at what he does. At just 15, his hockey skills as a playmaking right winger and love for the physical side of the game go way beyond his years.

But his 2006 birthday means he can’t mix with the 16-20-year-old crowd in the B.C. Hockey League on a regular basis until after the season ends for his Delta Hockey Academy Under-17 prep team. And even then, there’s no guarantee for the Spruce Kings Marques will be coming back to them after playing in the team’s training camp scrimmages this past weekend at Rolling Mix Concrete Arena.

Marques is projected to be selected early in the Western Hockey League prospects draft on Dec. 9 and his junior future is still very much up in the air.

“Obviously I’m excited and we’ll see what happens,” Marques said. “I just have to keep playing hard this year and see where it takes me.”

Normally held in May, the draft was rescheduled because most of the eligible players were not able to play a full schedule last season with their teams due to provincial health orders which restricted team travel and competitions and WHL scouts need to see them in action before they make their picks.

“It’s been an odd year with COVID and everything and there’s a lot of competition around so we’ll see what happens,” said Marques. “You just have to find a way to get better every day with everything that’s going on.”

Marques played last year at St. George’s Academy, where former Prince George Cougars general manager Todd Harkins is the head of hockey at the Vancouver school. The U-15 prep team Marques played for was limited to six games and he lit up the scoreboard with seven goals and assists.

The previous season he played with the Prince George bantam triple-A Cougars under head coach Mirsad Mujcin and was one of the team’s top scorers with 16 goals and 42 points in 26 games.

He said his weekend in the Kings’ camp was ideal preparation for the Canadian Sport School Hockey League season, which starts this weekend for his Delta Academy team.

“Coming out here it’s been fast and competitive, I didn’t know what to expect right away,” he said.

“It’s compete and hitting and it was fun to play and a good experience with the older guys. It’s just a fast pace, compared to my league. You always have to win your puck battles and be hard on your body and stick.”

Marques started playing hockey when

he was five and found success playing in the Prince George Minor Hockey Association and in spring tournaments on select teams. He said one of the most influential coaches in his development was Travers Rebman, now head coach of the Kootenay International Junior B Kelowna Wings.

“He’s been pushing me since I was little, I think in my first year of peewee, and he ranmyspringteamaswell,”saidMarques.

“My cousins were playing hockey and they just asked me if I wanted to try it out and threw me out on the ice and that’s where I started.”

Kings head coach Alex Evin watched the five-foot-10, 150-pound Marques play for Team Blue in two weekend scrimmages at RMCA and was suitably impressed with what he displayed playing with and against older, bigger and more experienced players.

“For me, I feel like he would be a very special player and we’re so happy to have him a part of our camp and give him a good experience and it looks like he’s going to have a bright future in the game,” said Evin. “He’s got to obviously wait for the Western League draft to see how that plays out, but if he’s ever going to consider going to the NCAA, we hope we’re the team he plays for.

“He’s an elite skater, he makes good decisions with the puck. He’s feisty. He has a really good skillset on him and his skating is really impressive. He’s an awesome kid and good to have around the group and he’s very into it every day, if it’s video, practice or working with our sports psychologist, he’s super into it. It’s nice to see some higher-end talent coming out of this town in the future.”

WHL or BCHL, Marques still hasn’t decided which route he will take, but if he does decide a U.S. college scholarship is what he wants, he knows he won’t have to find a billet home once he starts playing junior hockey.

“I think the Spruce Kings would be on top of the list, just playing at home in front of the fans would be awesome,” he said.

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MIGUEL MARQUES

Heavy summer, fall harvest for Indigenous Canada

Irun on an academic calendar.

While many of us start a new year in January, my new year has started in September since 1988 when I entered public school as a rambunctious four-year-old. This year I take an extra pause for reflection at the new year/new beginning we have been given.

Coming out of a heavy summer where some of us may feel battered against the rocks of a stormy sea, my mind turns to keeping the conversation going with everyone at the table.

The tragic news out of residential schools of children’s graves unearthed after being hidden from sight for years, folks wonder what do we do now? The words that do these last few months of learning any form of justice have not been invented yet.

A mere three months after the initial news stories of unmarked graves in May and I already see the conversation disappearing into the background as the number of graves continues to rise in the shadows. Indigenous children went missing, many never came home, and for the first time families are half a step closer to answers of where their loved ones were hidden. This year I experienced a summer of overwhelming truth and for the first time, I took a break from social media and news for a week – twice.

Our people and communities knew these truths for years and no one believed them In fact, an agenda and a modern day fight to keep the truth hidden away should remain our focus as Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. Have you asked yourself why this genocide was hidden from you as Canadians or new Canadians? We hide things when we know we have done wrong. We hide things when we are afraid of the consequences.

That aside, I strive to see hope. I see hope for a conversation bringing people together as we grapple with what it means to have a history hidden from us for generations. I understand the frustration, shame, anger, guilt and hopelessness, or even numbness that comes when you feel powerless to make change. As someone

who walks in two worlds, an Indigenous woman with maternal ties to my community, Gitxaala, and also non-Indigenous English and Irish from my father.

Two worlds, two ways of knowing, and oftentimes caught in the crossfire of heated conversations I learned a long time ago that my path in this world was going to be teaching, listening, talking and holding space. An ethical space To enact an ethical space we first agree that we see the world different from one another, we have diverse histories and experiences, and our knowledge systems do not often see eye-to-eye. Ethical space is an agreement and recognition of these differences so we can focus on what is more important – relationship building and respect for one another. We do this by listening, talking and holding space.

Talking and reaching out - this is the summer I have had Folks approached me to ask, “what do I do now?” While some find questions overwhelming, I find comfort in questions and inquiry If you have

Once something sees the light, it cannot be hidden away and the people will be silent no more.

Let this fall, this harvest time, be a time of harvesting new relationships – a coming together to talk. Here are some ideas of what you can do as the new year approaches:

• Learn whose territory you live, work or play on. What language do they speak?

“Hello” is a great start

• What do people call themselves? Do they go by the name of their Nation, Indigenous, Aboriginal, First Nations, Indian, Inuit, Métis? Ask the questions and remain respectful in your approach. Be humble.

• Speak up (if it is safe to do so) when you witness mistreatment towards Indigenous peoples Be brave.

• Keep space. If you want to be an ally or act with humility, ask yourself how much space you take up. Be aware.

• Learn about privilege and what aspects of your life you may have certain privileges not automatically given to others Be reflective.

crossed paths with me you have likely heard the words “lets unpack that” Yes, let’s unpack what to do now as Canadians just like that camping gear from your last adventure you’ve been avoiding. But first, let me be clear – you should not feel shame, lowering the flags of this country is not a sign of shame, as Conservative leader Erin O’toole attempted to indicate in late August Lowering the flags is a sign of recognition and honour for children who never came home The overarching significance of lowered flags begs Canadians to take pause and ask the tough but transformational questions for change.

Canada is a young country, with much to learn but often too proud with blind hesitance to reflect and be truthful. I see this failure when new Canadians come my way to express overwhelm of learning a small part of what happened here. New and old Canadians alike are learning a history that was hidden away in the hopes that the truth would be forgotten and that Indigenous peoples would remain silent.

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• Discover possessive terms and remove them from your conversations (ie. “Our” First Nations/Indigenous) and consider how our shared history has brought us here today. Be perceptive.

• Find time to review recent reports such as: Sacred and Strong – Upholding our Matriarchical Roles: The Health and Wellness Journeys of First Nations Women and Girls Living in BC, In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-Specific Racism and Discrimination in B.C. Health Care, Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action – Explore Indigenous Canada through the University of Alberta for free.

• And finally, challenge yourself to see the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples and their communities We are still here for a reason and we welcome the potential for relationships.

Jessie King, Hadiksm Gaax (Swimming Raven) is an assistant professor in the First Nations Studies department at UNBC and a member of the T’symsen Nation with maternal ties to Gitxaala.

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LEJAC RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL FACEBOOK IMAGE
The Lejac Residential School in Fraser Lake was operated from 1922 to 1976 by the Roman Catholic Church.

Who is running School District 57?

The abrupt resignations of not one, but two members of SD57 school board trustees came as a bit of a shock to most people.

The only thing to guide opinions were their resignation letters shared on social media and a few bland news reports.

The media will likely not dig beyond their explanations because trustees are considered upstanding members of our communities, and we bump into them at the grocery store, so we don’t want to ask too many difficult questions or challenge the narrative they have set out. Anyone who knows more will wave the privacy flag and that will be the end of it.

And so it goes. Nothing changes, and kids of all cultures are given a substandard education simply because the adults are too polite.

Let’s not let this fade into the forest, for the forest has enough to deal with, what with beetles, fires, loggers and glysophate

THINKING ALOUD TRUDY KLASSEN

spraying. We have a trustee by-election coming up, and these things need to be discussed or nothing will change.

Let’s look at the one thing we have been told.

Both resignations included reference to the systemic racism discovered in local schools and the fact that the meetings are not safe or inclusive.

Trent Derrick was the board chair, which means he was person running the meetings. Shuirose Valimohommad was vice-chair.

Both of the top positions, whose very job it was to make sure voices were heard, resigned because they weren’t being

heard due to their race?

This is either an odd thing to say, or it is true. Odd, as four of eight trustees identify as Indigenous or BIPOC.

Derrick was in charge of how the meetings run. If he is conducting the meetings in a discriminatory fashion, he should have resigned his position as chair to allow someone who was more impartial and inclusive to run the meetings

But maybe it’s not the odd explanation. The trustees that are left say there were surprised by the resignations.

If we believe them, then it seems there were conversations happening away from the public about the disfunction at the meetings.

It would point to something that was so accepted that the more experienced trustees (Sharel Warrington, Tim Bennet and Betty Bekkering) had got used to it. If true, it is very disturbing and speaks to a very dysfunctional senior administration/

trustee relationship.

From my two years of attending school board or committee meetings, it seemed to me that board members always spent an inordinate amount of time thanking and deferring to senior staff.

Even with that, it did not seem like a congenial relationship. I never got the sense that senior staff understood that they were in the employ of the board. Even the superintendent seemed inferior to the senior administration.

Another factor may be in play. With the province having already put in place special advisors to supervise the district, is it really a stretch to go one step further, with an even weaker board, to simply remove school boards all together?

The NDP have done this in the past, having eliminated hospital boards, so it would be in character.

I hope not, but it is something to consider as an end game.

Coping with brain injury in a crazy world

When you have a brain injury, maintaining healthy, appropriate coping skills can be overwhelming.

Overwhelming to the point where I just want to stay home and shut myself away from this crazy world.

Then I think there are other people who should be staying home more than me.

This past week I was out shopping at one of my go-to essential stores.

There is one staff person at this particular store who has been an employee there for many years

Although I don’t know her personally, she is always smiling, always says “hi” and always boosts my spirits with her positive energy. I absolutely adore this woman.

When I was speaking to her on this day, she mentioned to me she had recently been assaulted on the job by a customer who refused to wear a mask into the store

On my way home, I had to pull over on

BOGGLED

NAKAMURA

the side of the road because I was crying so much I could barely see. I can’t remember the last time I broke down like this.

Since brain injury, my emotions have been flat so this was a very unusual occurrence for me.

When I pieced my thoughts together, I realized I was beyond angry. This brought up my own post traumatic syndrome response to being assaulted myself three years ago. But my emotional reaction was much more than a personal trigger.

So what makes it okay for someone to commit violence towards another person who was just doing her job?

Making excuses for people committing

crimes like inflicting violence onto others is not okay either. I’ve heard excuses like “this person must have mental health issues” or “this person must have been drunk or high on drugs” or “the pandemic has caused people to deteriorate”

Give me a break!

I have a brain injury. People with conditions like mine have the ability to control their impulses if they choose to.

I have to work hard every day to keep myself in check. If I were to “lose it” in public I would expect no special treatment because of my condition.

What has deteriorated is society’s expectations of people assuming personal responsibility.

Like I mentioned earlier, instead of people like me staying home, perhaps people need to be shielded from jerks who act like loose cannons.

I think there needs to be a registry developed to track offenders who target people

who are merely upholding the provincial mandate of requiring patrons to wear masks and produce vaccine passports when accessing public establishments. Something needs to be done before these industries crumble because they have no people who are willing to risk their safety being at work. The incidents of violence towards retail and hospitality industry staff are rapidly rising, particularly in North America.

It would be interesting to create a demographic profile of who these culprits are. They are likely not marginalized, homeless folks who don’t have the financial means to attend these public venues. I would take a guess that popular assumptions would be crushed if the truth be told about who these people are.

The Nut Bar Registry, for the lack of a better or more appropriate name would serve the public’s safety well. It kind of has a ring to it doesn’t it?

My advice for the tent invasion here, is for us to embrace what’s happening and turn this reality into perspective. Recent history of encampments in Victoria and Vancouver’s east end turned violent when force was used to only try to end it.

If I was in the mayor’s chair, I would have set a precedent by immediately setting up temporary male and female washrooms, equipped with showers and sinks at the very least. Over this winter, I would with council approval ask city engineering to

develop the site as a campground and giving those living there now a lottery name draw for first site picks when the development is complete.

When the site is complete it enables us now as the taxpayer landlord to collect their shelter money allocated to each individual.

Each individual would have their own site. Their approximate monthly shelter money of $400 would be paid directly to city coffers each month of their stay.

The city would supply the tents needed to thus keep “build your own projects” out of the question. Also, a damage deposit for each site would be collected. Each site too would have electrical installed. Now you

have the ability to force all people that are camping out through out our downtown, to either move to camping at “Moccasin Flats” or take the Crowbar Hotel.

Our neighbour to the south, Quesnel’s police force will arrest anyone in their downtown if they don’t have a legitimate reason to be there!

Those that are not following their bylaw get to talk to their judge on the next business day, meaning an over night stay at you-know-where and then possible community hours to follow.

Last and importantly would be double-wide trailers set up with things to do to pass one’s day and night. The solution to this would be for the city to hire

entertainment specialists to run programs that are stimulating and engaging. There would be no access up to Patricia Boulevard except at Queensway.

Only the resident fox will have access, as he does now, in search of a cat or two. Security cameras built into the buildings to keep everyone safe is No. 1 on the list of the Golden rules. This, if implemented, will keep us all safe.

There is approximately four to five acres making it possible say for 200-plus tenting sites, of which would amount to approximately $80,000 a month in revenue for the city collections department.

Miles Thomas, Prince George

HORO SC OPES &P UZ ZLES

ACROSS

Trade

Gator’s kin

Butter square

Andes nation

Hawaiian party 14. Strong anger

Skipper’s command 16. Opening 18. Marble slice 19. Valuable item 20. Mr. Chaney 22. Forerunner 26. “The Jazz Singer” star: 2wds. 31. Pine 32. Thick stuff 33. Tough fabric

35. Above, to bards

Final notice

Fixed

Actress Rowlands

Favored person 42. Cantor’s kin

Very dry

Blue Hen State 53. Ms. Bonet

Byron’s before

Stages

Lazily 57. Half of abikini 58. Fender flaw 59. Mediocre grades

DOWN

Reducing camps

Satisfactory

Locale

Indian village

Detergent

Races

Stable grains

Heal

Needle’s kin

Rainbow shape

Golf peg

Molecule part 21. “____ Yeller” 23. Othello, e.g.

PUZZLE NO. 837

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 mustnot repeatthe numbers 1through 9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.

24. Fencing equipment 25. Geek 26. Eagerly expectant 27. Ear part 28. Unite 29. Individual 30. Coldest 34. Actress Clarke

37. Scarlett’s abode

39. Type of type 43. Stunned 44. Uncovered 45. Source of fiber 47. Be a passenger 48. Capri, e.g. 49. Year portions 50. Society girl 51. Botch

52. Actress Thompson

AspenGrove Golf Centre

TheNorbraten family wouldliketothank our golferswho have supportedusall theseyears!Fifty of them, andtheyweren’t always pretty! The firstfew years,the course wasverydry,withlotsofcracks in thefairwaysand frogs everywhere

We hadcaterpillarsfor afew years, whereyou didn’t even want to go out!Iremember, Ibelieve it wasBCTVNewsfrom Vancouvercalled because they heardwehad caterpillars in theclubhouse Of course we didn’t,but if theguyscameinwith acaterpillar on their sleeve or back Iwas hauling them outside!

Then we hadthe wetyears,where ourcoursehad been saturated.

Last year wasone of thoseyears,where we even closed fora couple of days anddid notlet thepower cartsgoout forabout 10 days.

We have ladies’day on Tuesdays, men’sday on

Wednesdays andSeniors’day on Thursdays.

In Dad’slatteryears he couldbeseenwandering with hisdog Josie andpicking up therange balls and cleaningthe fencelineofthe drivingrange!

Dadalwayswantedthe average persontobeableto affordtogolf, andenjoy agame. We have triedto stay with that philosophy!

We saythankstoour mother,Marlenewho ran theclubhouse formanyyears andactuallyhad to put up with alot in those first years! Iremember Momtellingusthatthose first fewyears,Telus and Finningtractoremployees kept us going. So thank you

Thankyou to all whohavesupported us theselast 50 years,there aresomanyspecial people whom we have metand have become so much more than just customers!(:

THANKSFROMTHENORBRATEN’S!

THEPLACE FORE GOLF

The family of Fran Ross is planning to celebrate Fran’s life with the many people whom she touched through her friendship, generosity and faith on Saturday, October 2. Fran was an active member of Christ our Saviour Catholic Church, a long time teacher in Prince George and a dedicated volunteer who supported many causes, including the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, refugee resettlement programs, the Canada WinterGames,GirlGuides,andmanymore.

Tolearnmoreandtoregistertoattend,please RSVPbyvisitingthiswebsite: http://celebratefran.eventbrite.ca?s=136077569.

RonaldMcLeanShearer

July27,1937-September9,2021

It is with great sadness, the family of Ron announces his passing at the ripe age of 84. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Helen. He will be forever missed by his loving family and friends. A huge thank you to his Doctors, PGRH and Hospice House for the love and care that was showntoRonandhisfamily TherewillbenoservicebyRon’srequest.

Famous last words “Shit or get off the pot.”

Stallknecht, Germaine April 16, 1955 -August 29, 2021

Left to mourn her passing her loving partner Darold Annis of 20 years. Siblings Ron (Debbie )Poulin, Richard ( Tracey )Poulin, long time friend Trixi. The family would like to thank the staff at Gateway Lodge Complex Care Facility for the exceptional care that they gave Germaine.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passingofMarcel.

He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by his wife Patricia, daughter Amanda (Jeremy), sons Michael (Amber) and Mark (Katelyn), and grandchildren. Sometimes feisty but always loving, Marcel’s devotion to his family will never beforgotten.

A small memorial service will be held at the Wood Innovation and Design Centre on Friday, September 17th, 2021, at 1 pm, and a Celebration of Life will be planned for February 18th, 2022, when more of us are able to gather together to rememberMarcel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the B.C. Heart and Stroke Foundation or the HospiceHouseofPrinceGeorge.

CarolineOpitz

1960-2021

It is with deep sadness that we announce Caroline’s passing in Melourne, Australia on September15,2021.

Caroline was born May 25, 1960 in Prince George. She lived the last 30 years in Australia, first in Sydney then in Melbourne. Her love of Canada never waivered and she always considered Prince Georgeherhome.

Caroline was a very generous, giving person always putting others ahead of herself. Her strength of character and commitment to her principles were something to be admired. Her laugh was boisterous and many enjoyed her wit and intelligence. Others have benefitted from her compassion, encouragement and friendship. She leaves behind many valuedfriendshipsinB.C.andAustralia.

She was pre-deceased by her parents Adolph and Maria Opitz. Left to mourn her passing are her husband Brendan Oliver and her daughter Alexa of Melbourne, her sister Angela (Lloyd) and brother Rick (Debbie); her nieces Lori, Amy, Sydney (Landon) and her nephew David (Sayaka), also her many extendedfamilymembersinCanada,AustraliaandGermany

She will be forever missed.

Euclide(Euc)Goyer

1930-2021

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Euclide (Euc) Goyer, dearly loved husband, Dad, Grandpa, brother and friend. Euc passed away peacefully at Prince George Hospital on September 12, 2021 at the age of 91. He is survived by the love of his life of 60 years, Gladys, daughter Diane, son Robert (Michelle), and granddaughter, Sarah. He is also survived by his brother, Remi, sisters-in-law Diana Wiseman and Barb Hanson, brotherin-law, Frank Urbash, and many nephewsandnieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, Rene and Sylvia Goyer, his parentsin-law, Steve and Edith Wiseman, his sisters, Sylvane and Bernice, brother, Leonard, his sister-in-law, Margie (Goyer),andbrothers-in-law,RoyOlsonandHarryWiseman.

He was known for his love of family and keen sense of humour Euc was a talented carpenter and was widely known for sharing his gifts and talents with many of his family and friends. He was a proud member of the Elks for over 50 years. One of Euc’s favourite pastimes was spending time at the family cabin at Norman Lake with a beer in his hand in front of the campfire. In his lateryears,hemademanynewfriendsatRiverBendSenior’scommunity

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Prince George Hospice Society

NeilKirby Holzworth

June22,1962Sept2,2021

It is with great sadness and overwhelming heartbreak we announce this devastating loss. Neil passed suddenly yet quietly ashesleptpeacefully

Left to mourn his absence is his loving wife, best friend, partner in life Heather along with his best FurzPearl,LukeandScooby

Neil’s loving family….Brother Tim, Sister Leila (Randy) nieces Chas and Kelsey with great nephew Mateo, Sister Tracy (Andy) nephews Travis with great nephew Tyroh, Jason and Jeff Bourdon , Sister Debbie (Mike) with nieces Leah andBrandy

We are absolutely shocked by this sudden loss as manyheartsbrokethisday

Predeceased by his loving parents Herb and Helen HolzworthalsoUncleJohn.

TohisLoggingFamilyoverthepast43years…

“See you at the end of the road. I will be waiting as the finish line came too early.”

In lieu of flowers, donations to the go fund me page in memory of Neil to help Heather through thisdifficulttimewouldbegreatlyappreciated.

No service as per Neil’s request. He only asks to raiseaglassinhisnameonelasttime.

Till we meet again.

CHERYL PETERSEN 2x79.5

PGC002323

PETERSEN, Ilse

June 15, 1948 -September 14, 2021

Ilse Petersen (nee Schroder) passed away peacefully on September 14th after along, courageous battle with cancer. Ilse was born in Flensburg, Germany and was living in Ellund prior to their move to Canada in 1981. They made their forever home in Newlands, acommunity just East of Willow River. There she enjoyed raising her family, the views of her pond and wildlife, and the many hummingbirds she kept fed.

She leaves behind her husband of 53 years, Helmut, and their children Morris (Melonie), Greg (Cheryl), and Nadin as well as her grandchildren Corey, Katrina, Danika, Denver, Sammy, Mikayla and Liz and her great grandchildren Owen and Elliana. Also left are the many family members in Germany, including sisters Ute and Jutta (Rudiger). Ilse was well-known in her community and left behind many friends who would have enjoyed coffee with her out on her deck overlooking the fields and pond.

During her final days Ilse was provided with remarkable care at the PG Hospice House where the family was able to connect her with her sister in Germany and she raved about the 24/7 service and care. The family is incredibly thankful for this and requests that adonation be made to the PG Hospice Society in lieu of any flowers or gifts of condolence.

Asmall gathering to celebrate Ilse’s life will take place in the weeks to come and the family will reach out with that information. As Mom would say, "All is Good"!

Auctions

WARD’S & BUD HAYNES FIREARMS AUCTION, Saturday, December 11th, Edmonton, Alberta.

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NOW HIRING

When you grow here atTolko, you will further develop your skills and pursue diverse opportunities.The Lavington Division is looking to hire aDivisionalAccounting Supervisor

Tolko.com/careers –Learnmore and apply today!

Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.

Howtowrite aclassifiedad thatworks. keyword. your ad with the item for

• Use akeyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, service offered or the job title.

• Be descriptive. Give customers areason to respond. Advertisers have found thatthe more information you provide, the better the response.

• Limit abbreviations Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.

• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.

• How to respond. Always include aphone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.

NWCDC PAEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Located in Vanderhoof, B.C. This is apermanent full time (35hr/week) position. Relocation funds available. hr@nwcdc.ca www.nwcdc.ca Career Opportunities

Employment opportunity with Tsideldel First Nation. Chilanko Forks, BC, V0L1H0. Position: Executive Assistant Deadline: Sept 28, 2021

Apply by email at: execassistant@tsideldel.org

For more information, visit: http://tsideldel.org/ execassistant@tsideldel.org

Medical/Dental Help

Dental Receptionist required for a busy Oral Surgery Practice. Approximately 25-30 hours per week Dental Experience is required Please forward Resume to:

glynis@ozcanomfs.com

Trucking & Transport

CLARK FREIGHTWAYS

CLASS 1LINE HAUL DRIVER -PRINCE GEORGE

Class 1License with clean driver’s abstract is required with 6-12 mos previous Class 1mountain driving experience Previous reefer experience is adefinite asset

$0.5491 per mile plus $25.53/hr plus benefits

Fax: 604-472-2136 jobs@clarkfreightways.com

Experienced Class 1 gravel truck driver required in

(250) 614-6667

Ken

NorthernCres

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Dollar Saverlumber operates alumber re-manufacturing operation in PrinceGeorge.Wecurrently have an opportunity in our management group fora Sales Production coordinator.

This position is responsible to perform the following functions:

•Co-ordinate purchase of rawmaterial to meet mill requirements

•Co-ordinate Shipments of finished products to existing customers.

•Work with Mill Management to ensureoptimal inventories are maintained.

•Communicate with customers to ensuretheir needs arebeing met

Preferencewill be given forpersons

•Completed aCollege Course in BusinessAdministration or have equivalent experience

•Good computer skills including proficiencywith Microsoft Excel.

Thesuccessful candidate will possessthe following qualities

•The ability to deal with customer needs in acalm constructive manner

•The ability to adjusttorapidly changing conditions and developments

•The ability to work both independently and as part of ateam.

•Good analytical skills

Theposition offers:

•Acompetitivesalary and benefit package

•Opportunity to work in friendly non- bureaucratic environment

Please submit your resume to Frank Skerlak, General Sales Manager at fskerlak@lumber.caorBev at:gobbi1@telus.net

Only those persons chosen foran interviewwill be contacted.

To place your ad call: 604-630-3300

To advertise, call 250-562-6666 or email cls@pgcitizen.ca

or email keyles@lumber.ca or gobbi1@telus.net Fax: 250.561.2111

PrinceGeorgeNativeFriendshipCentre

“Weare adynamic andcompassionate team facilitating individual,family, andcommunity growth,well-beingand mutual understandingthrough the“poweroffriendship”.

Come join ourdynamic, highlymotivated,SeniorLeadership team as a:

DirectorofFinance

Youthriveinafastpaced,complexfinancialnot-for-profitorganization.Youarecommunitymindedwithapassionfor supportingsocialservicesector,programsandservices.

Youwill be responsiblefor ensuring thecoordination financialand operational supportfor ourorganization andassist on all strategicand tacticalmatters in this complex financingstructure,astheyrelatetobudget management,cost benefitanalysis, forecasting financialand asset management needs. In this role,you will assist theExecutive Director andthe SeniorManagementTeaminperformingall tasksnecessary to achieve theCentre’smissionand helpcarry out staff successionand growth plans. Thereisaheavy emphasis on financialreporting to meet thestringent requirements of contracts andonthe financefunctionofprogram budgets. Your role will be to ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability with ourdiverseprogram offerings, multi-faceted fundingsources, andsupervise theadministration and financialteam.

•Bachelor’sDegreeinFinance/Accounting,aCPA designation,oranAccounting Diplomawithacombination of experience in businessadministration and/or financialmanagement.

•Five to seven years of financialand provenmanagementexperience with theday-to-day financialoperationsofa community basednot-for-profitorganization.

•Knowledge of not-for-profitaccounting in accordance with GenerallyAcceptedAccounting Principles (GAAP). Professional financialmanagementcompetencies andpropertyand asset management experience

•Provenexperience in writingreports on activities, strategicworkplans,goalsand objectives.

•A thorough appreciation,awareness,working experience andsensitivity of Indigenoushistory andculture,aswellasa thorough understandingofthe complexities of workingwithdiversepopulations.

•Ability to developand maintain strongrelationships with local, regional,provincialand national partners of thePGNFC.

•Professionalcommunicationproficiencies includingpresentationskills,writing ability, computer proficiency,including theSAGEsoftware program,and authenticinterpersonal skills

•Demonstratedteamwork, leadership skills andvisionary abilitytoinspire andempower others.

•In-depth knowledgeofthe socialservice sector,community-based programs andservices, fundingsources, community andboard relations.

•A thorough knowledgeand understandingofasset management andprogram budget requirements fornot-for-profit organizations.

•Superiorcommunicationskills includingpresentationskills,writing ability, computer proficiency andauthentic interpersonal skills.

•SuccessfullycompleteCriminal Record Clearances andpossess valid driver’slicense

•Bewillingtowork flexiblehours includingoncall,evenings &weekends

To apply forthisposition please visitour website at http://pgnfc.prevueaps.com to submitaresume,cover letter by September 26, 2021. PrinceGeorgeNativeFriendshipCenter ,PrinceGeorge,BC

Property For Sale

Property For Sale

Legal/Public Notices

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Recreational Property

for

RE: THE ESTATE OF MARY JANE CHADWICK, deceased, formerly of 2064288 15th Avenue, Prince George BC V2M 5K6.

Creditors and others having claims against the estate of MARY JANE CHADWICK are hereby notified under section 38 of the Trustee Act that particulars of their claims should be sent to the executor; Mark Chadwick at 206- 4288-15th Ave, Prince George, BC V2M 5K6 on or before October 23, 2021 after which date the executor will distribute the estate among the parties entitled to it having regard only to the claims of which the executors then have notice.

WL661

2021-2031 Woodlot Licence Plan

Jacobson Agencies Ltd has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten year period from 2021 to 2031 for WL661. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule A Lands (Miworth South Rd), and Schedule B Lands, crown (Lavoie Rd south of Chubb Lake).

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days Written comments should be received by Oct 22, 2021. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

Ron Parker, RPF SBS Forestry Inc. 1541 Ogilvie St Prince George, B.C. V2N 1W7 Ph 250-561-1140

510572 BC Ltd has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten-year period from 2021 to 2031 for WL224. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule A and B Lands in the Pelican Area.

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days Written comments should be received by Oct 19, 2021. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

Ron Parker, RPF SBS Forestry Inc. 1541 Ogilvie St Prince George, B.C. V2N 1W7 Ph 250-561-1140

DISTRICT OF MACKENZIE

NOTICE OF TAXSALE

PursuanttoSection 645 of the Local Government Act,the following properties, land and improvements,willbe offeredfor sale by public auction to be held at theCouncil Chambers,District of Mackenzie,1 Mackenzie Blvd., Mackenzie,B.C.on Monday, September 27,2021 at 10:00 a.m.,unless the delinquent taxesand applicable interest arepaid in full.

2054000

5339000

5671000

6163000

LotB,Plan21718,DL12463 $7,911.13

PID009-307-826

530 Mackenzie Blvd

Lot39, Plan 18898,DL12463 $7,456.90

PID010-787-348

811 Centennial Dr

Lot3,Plan20179,DL3673$4,281.30

PID 008-106-126

119 Moberly Cres

Lot196,Plan22048,DL3673$6,601.34

PID 009-085-017

61 MunroCres

The minimum bid is the upsetprice, thatis, the current taxesand penalties, arrears and delinquenttaxes and interest,5%tax sale costsand Land Title Officetransferfees. Anypersonuponbeing declared the successful bidder mustprovide their name and addressand immediately paybycash, debit,orcertified cheque the amountofthe successful bid amount.Failure to paythis amountwillresult in the property being offeredfor sale again.

The District of Mackenzie makes no representation expressorimplied as to thecondition or quality of the properties being offeredfor sale.Prospectivepurchasers areurged to make allnecessary inquiriestoapplicable government departments and in the case of strata lots to thestratacorporation, to determine the existenceofany bylaws, restrictions,charges or other conditions which mayaffect the valueorsuitability of the properties.

The purchase of atax sale property that is notredeemed is subject to taxunder the Property TransferAct on the fair market valueofthe property at theend of the one-yearredemption period.

ACROSS

1. One of the four Vedas

5. Part of (abbr.)

8.At the peak

12.African antelope

14. Expression of satisfaction

15. Yankees’ace

16. Belittled

18.Abaglike structure

19. Utah Jazz coach Snyder

20.Actress Tomei

21. Explosive

22. Formal for “on” 23. Cruelties

26. Country singer Brad

DOWN

ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

30. Make very happy

31. Binary compound of hydrogen with a metal

32.Albanian currency

33. Subatomic particle

34. Type of salt

39. 007’s creator 42. Emerging

46. Observed

47. Capable of reproduction

49. Indicates adjacent to

50. Legendary Notre Dame coach

Not wide

embarrassing

W. Indian trees 62. You

63. Pigpen

Be aware of 1. Crease

“Honey” actress Jessica

Broad volcanic crater

Product safety watchdog

Southern Colombian city

Part of a church

25. Popular Eagles song

Philosophy degree

Yes vote

Flat ruler

Perceptible by touch

Pronounce not guilty of criminal charges

Hairpiece

Variety acts

“Mystic River” actor Sean

Remove salt

Went out with

Type of bread

28. Passports and licenses are two 29. No seats available 35. Pounds per square inch 36.Away to launch an attack on 37. The lowest cardinal number

38. Popular Miller beer

Pokes holes in

Closest to

Folk singer DiFranco 43. Rivne’s former name

Lacking the means to do something 47. Cockatoo 48. Dred Scott decision deliverer 49. Explosion exclamation 53. Houston university

some prior time

Red, swollen mark

51.
56.An
mistake 57. Pearl Jam’s debut album
58. Denotes passerine birds 59. Stumble 60. Midway between east and southeast 61.

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

What’s the best material to frame your windows?

If it’s time to replace the windows in your home, you’ll need to choose a material for the frames. Here are the most common options and what you should know about them.

VINYL

Made of PVC and often supported with a metal interior, this material is easy to maintain, an effective insulator and resistant to moisture and corrosion. It’s also the most affordable window frame option. Over time, however, fluctuating temperatures can cause the corner seams to fail

ALUMINUM

This durable material requires little maintenance and is extremely weather-resistant, although exposure to sunlight can affect its appearance. Though more expensive than vinyl, these sturdy frames can be built thin to increase the surface area of glass in your windows.

WOOD

This timeless, warm and recyclable material is both an eco-friendly and esthetically pleasing option. However, it requires meticulous care to protect it from water damage and rot. Alternatively, hybrid window frames include a layer of aluminum or fibreglass to shield the wood from the elements

FIBREGLASS

While not as affordable as vinyl, this low-cost option offers the strongest window frame structure. It’s also resistant to temperature fluctuations and moisture. Fibreglass tends to discolour in the sun, but it can easily be repainted. Plus, the material won’t deteriorate

All of these window frame varieties have an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years However, if properly cared for, wood frames can last much longer.

How to choose the perfect desk

If you frequently work or study from home, creating the ideal workspace is a must. So what’s the first step?

Choosing the right desk, of course! Here’s what you should do before making your pick

MEASURE THE SPACE YOU HAVE

Some people have a whole room they can use, while others are allotted only a corner. Before heading out to look for desks, calculate the space you have, and don’t forget to factor in room for a chair and other office furniture.

DETERMINE THE WAY IT WILL BE USED

Will you be working primarily on your computer, or do you need space to handle paperwork? Will your desk be kept clear, or do you need it to hold other office equipment like a phone or printer? Select a compact, rounded desk that allows you to reach everything you need without changing positions

DEDUCE WHAT STORAGE YOU NEED

If you need to keep books, papers and other supplies handy while you work, consider a desk with drawers Alternatively, filing cabinets and bookshelves can help keep you organized.

How to choose a new vacuum

TYPES OF VACUUMS

Vacuum cleaners come in a few basic styles, including:

• Upright vacuums with either a bin or bag attached to the handle and a rotating brush head to pick up dirt. These are popular because they clean well, particularly carpeted surfaces.

• Canister vacuums, which have a hose attached to the dirt receptacle that you pull behind you.They’re easier to use on stairs because the hose allows you to tackle different levels without having to carry the whole motor with you the entire time

• Stick and handheld models. Both are great for dealing with small messes but aren’t ideal for extensive or deep cleaning.

• Central vacuum systems, which allow homeowners to plug a hose into an outlet in the wall, thereby accessing a central unit with very strong suction.

• Robot vacuums offer a hands-free approach to cleaning, but their high price tag reflects their level of convenience.

BAG VS. BIN

Vacuums come with either disposable bags or reusable bins to store the debris they pick up

Though vacuum bags need to be frequently replaced, they tend to hold more and release less dirt and dust into the air as you change them.

Reusable bins, alternatively, can be emptied and reused countless times but hold less debris You also risk coming into contact with dust when you empty it.

No matter what vacuum you choose, if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, choose a model with a HEPA filter to avoid releasing allergens into the air.

5 things to think about when designing an easy-to-clean kitchen

If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen, it’s worth considering your design choices in terms of how easy or difficult it will be to keep the renovated space clean. After all, the kitchen may be the heart of your home, but it’s also the room most prone to spills and messes

Here are five aspects to carefully consider when redesigning your kitchen.

1. THE FLOOR

Linoleum holds up well to frequent cleaning and has the advantage of having no grout lines to scrub If you prefer ceramic, choose large tiles and make sure the grout lines are kept thin.

PRIORITIZE YOUR COMFORT

Pick a desk that’s the proper height, and if you suffer from back pain, a standing desk might be an ideal option. Things like foot rests, keyboard wrist rests and monitor stands can make your workspace more comfortable

In addition to these considerations, consider what style elements you want your desk to have Traditional and stately or contemporary and chic? For a seamless fit, choose a desk that matches the design esthetic in your home

2. THE PAINT Satin and high gloss paints are formulated to stand up to humid environments and are a cinch to wipe clean. Stay away from matte finishes, as they can stain easily

3. THE COUNTER

Manmade materials like laminate and engineered stone can stand up to almost anything and require very little upkeep Stay away from counters that are too pale or too dark, as these show dirt more than others

4. THE BACKSPLASH

The area behind the stove tends to get stained and greasy and can be difficult to clean. If tiles are used in this space, the grout lines will require frequent scrubbing. Instead, opt for a covering like stainless steel or glass

5. THE CABINETS

Open storage may be trendy, but items kept on open kitchen shelves will quickly become grimy.

Choose neatly organized cabinets with doors that are easy to wash instead If you design them to reach right up to your ceiling, you’ll never have to wipe down the tops

Tidy spaces are easier to clean than cluttered ones, so try keep your counters bare. Store your pots, pans and small appliances in cabinets.

GO FOR GOLD.

4 perks of an open-concept floor plan

Does your home feel closed off and cramped? If you want to transform your living space, here are the benefits you can look forward to with an open-concept floor plan

1. IT LETS IN MORE NATURAL LIGHT

Removing interior walls is an effective way to brighten up your living space and allow natural light to extend further into your home.

2. IT MAXIMIZES SIGHT LINES

Whether you enjoy hosting dinner parties or need to keep an eye on young children, an open-concept floor plan will offer you a clear view of the living and dining room while you work in the kitchen.

3. IT MAKES SMALL SPACES FEEL LARGER

While you might not be able to add square footage to your home, taking down walls to combine several smaller rooms provides you with more usable space.

4. IT OFFERS FLEXIBLE DESIGN OPTIONS

Without walls to delineate each room, you can easily rearrange the layout of your living space to suit the evolving needs and preferences of your family

If you want to have an open-concept home, keep in mind that restructuring a house’s floor plan is a major undertaking To achieve the design of your dreams, be sure to enlist the help of experienced professionals including engineers, architects, contractors and interior decorators

7 things that can liven up a corner

are seven items you can use to spruce it up

1. BOOKSHELF

Whether it’s designed for a corner or simply placed at an angle, a unit filled with books is a practical way to style an unused space.

2. FRAMES

Hang an assortment of family photos, prints and artworkonbothoftheadjoiningwallsinanempty corner Use similar frames for a cohesive look

3. ARMCHAIR

Transform an unoccupied corner into a comfortable reading nook with a soft, upholstered armchair. If you need a more compact alternative, consider a pouf, padded chair or stool.

4. LIGHTING

Brighten up a dim corner with a few pendant lights hung at different heights A classic floor lamp is another good option

5. BASKETS

Suspend baskets from the ceiling or arrange them on wall-mounted shelves. You can do the same with wooden crates, or if the corner is in a kitchen, you can hang pots and pans.

6. PLANTS

Breathe new life into a forgotten corner with an arrangement of potted plants. You can display them on a stand, arrange them on the floor or suspend them with macrame hangers

7. SHELVING

Install a few corner-shaped floating shelves and decorate them with trinkets or practical items You

Homebuyers beware: get an air inspection before you make an offer

Are you in the market for a new home? If so, you may already know that having a property inspected before finalizing a deal is generally recommended However, standard home inspections don’t usually include an evaluation of the building’s air quality. Since air quality can have a huge impact on the health of a home’s inhabitants, forgetting to check this important aspect is a mistake.

TESTING INDOOR AIR QUALITY

When testing the air quality in a home, the inspector will focus on several elements, including:

• The building’s history, including the year it was built and the materials used to insulate it This information will offer insight into potential air contaminants

• The health of the current residents, including any symptoms that indicate an issue with the air in the home

•The state of the home’s ventilation system.

The inspector will also collect samples of the air in the home to check for mould, bacteria and gases like radon and carbon monoxide.

Don’t risk your health. Before scheduling a home inspection, ask if the inspector is qualified to assess the air quality of the home and if they’re comfortable drawing conclusions about potential health risks

5 ways to make your laundry room efficient

space, mount a drying rack on the wall, or buy a folding rack and neatly tuck it away after the laundry’s done

3. A folding surface. A long counter that provides you with enough room to fold your clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer is ideal Consider building the counter over your washer and dryer to save space.

4. A supply shelf. Keep laundry supplies handy on a shelf near the washing machine Store laundry detergent, stain remover and dryer sheets alongside a receptacle to hold things left behind in pockets

5. An ironing board. Having a wall-mounted board that includes space to store an iron makes it easy to quickly iron your clothes when you’re on the go

For a laundry room that’s as beautiful as it is functional, choose a colour scheme and apply it throughout the whole room. You could also use clear glass jars to hold your laundry supplies instead of storing them in their ugly, plastic containers.

Protect your home from radon

Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally when the uranium in rock and soil breaks down. When released into the outdoors, it poses no threat. However, if it seeps into a home, it can accumulate and cause serious health issues.

Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking, and it’s the leading cause of the disease in non-smokers.

While you can’t see, taste or smell radon, you can test for it, either by yourself or by hiring a professional

If you decide to test your home yourself, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and to send your samples to a lab for analysis after the test period

Alternatively, if you hire a professional, ensure that the individual is certified and that they conduct a long-term test over the span of at least three months

A test that reveals radon quantities higher than 200 becquerels per cubic metre is concerning In such a case, it’s important to hire a professional to seal any leaks and reduce the level of radon in your home A certified radon-mitigating contractor can assess your property and make changes that will stop the gas from entering your home

Don’t risk your family’s health. Have your home tested for radon gas and take the steps necessary to guarantee clean air

How to avoid indoor air pollution

Many people think of air pollution as an outdoor problem. However, studies indicate that the air in most homes is two to five times more polluted than the air outside. Unfortunately, poor indoor air quality can cause serious health problems, especially when you consider that people spend up to 90 per cent of their time indoors

CAUSES

Sources of indoor air pollution include:

• Mould, dust and pollen

• Tobacco smoke

• Gases such as carbon monoxide and radon

Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a leading cause of indoor air pollution. These gases are given off by many sources. Because they have a low boiling point, they can be released from products even at room temperature. They’re found in cleaning mate-

rials, personal care products, new furniture, building materials and even some fabrics.

SOLUTIONS

Here are a few ways to keep the air in your home clean:

• Choose products low inVOCs, and if possible, store new furniture, carpets and building materials outside of your home for a few weeks until they stop emitting gases

• Avoid scented products like plug-in or aerosol deodorizers, candles and incense

• Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working

• If you have one, keep your air exchanger on at all times and clean the filters regularly

Help yourself and your family breathe easier by identifying the sources of indoor air pollution in your home and taking steps to reduce or eliminate it.

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