Spruce Kings’ super fan has missed just 15 games since 1973
The Prince George Spruce Kings are near and dear to the hearts of many, whether they’re hockey fans or not.
For 50 years, the Spruce Kings have given their fans a reason to gather on cold winter nights to watch them play the game in their home barn representing the city as junior hockey ambassadors
The Spruce Kings annual Show Home Lottery sells out practically every year and people see their ticket purchases as an investment that pays the bills and keeps their team rooted in the community
Ginny Parsons sometimes tries her luck at winning the show home but without fail she buys tickets on the 50-50 draw during games at Rolling Mix Concrete Arena. She’s won it a couple times but that’s not the reason she’s there, sitting in Section 7, Row 3, by the Zamboni entrance.
She simply loves her team. In fact, the 79-year-old Parsons has missed only 15 games since she bought her first season ticket in 1973, the second year of the Spruce Kings’ existence. Counting up exhibition, regular season and playoff games, that’s about 2,000 games in 50 years she personally attended. When it comes to ticket-buying loyalty, nobody else comes close.
“I’m not sure, but I think I’ve outlived them all,” said a grinning Parsons.
“It took me 50 years to get this,” she said, proudly pointing to the 50th anniversary Kings jersey autographed by all the players that she wears to the games.
See ‘YOU’VE GOT,’ on page 14
Citizen staff
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Ginny Parsons lets out a cheer after the Spruce Kings scored their first goal Thursday on their way to a 3-2 win in Game 5 of their BCHL playoff series over the Cranbrook Bucks at Rolling Mix Concrete Arena. Parson’s has missed just 15 Kings home games since 1973.
WHAT:
City Council consideration of thirdreading of:
CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS
•Proposed “City of Prince George 214 Kelly Street Road ClosureBylaw No. 9272, 2021”
•Proposed “City of Prince George 1652 Boundary Road Road ClosureBylaw No. 9276, 2022”
City Council consideration of first and second reading of:
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9278, 2021”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9236, 2021”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9261, 2021”
WHEN:
Monday,April 25, 2022
WHERE:
Council Chambers of City Hall, 2nd Floor,1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC PROPOSALS:
1. “City of Prince George 214 Kelly Street Road ClosureBylaw No. 9272, 2021”
Applicant: City of Prince George
Subject Property: Road adjacent to 214 Kelly Street
Time: 6:00 p.m
Pursuant to section 40 of the Community Charter,the City of Prince George intends to close an approximate 178.1 m² (squaremetres) portion of road dedicated on Plan 752, Block 122, District Lot 938, Cariboo District, as shown on Reference Plan EPP118472, adjacent to the property legally described as Lot A, District Lot 939, Cariboo District, Plan 16313 and remove the road dedication, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #1 below
The purpose of the road closureistoenable the sale of the closed road area to the adjacent property owner.The proposed closureand sale provides the property owner the ability to consolidate the closed road area with their adjacent property and to rectify an existing encroachment.
On adoption of the Bylaw and pursuant to the provisions of Section 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Prince George intends to sell to Ferenc Nagy that portion of road adjacent to Lot A, District Lot 939, Cariboo District, Plan 16313 for asale price of $10,000.
Location Map #1 214 Kelly Street Road Closure
2. “City of Prince George 1652 Boundary Road Road ClosureBylaw No. 9276, 2022”
Applicant: City of Prince George
Subject Property: Road adjacent to 1652 Boundary Road
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to section 40 of the Community Charter, the City of Prince George intends to close an approximate 398.4 m² (squaremetres) portion of road dedicated on Plan 902, District Lot 629, Cariboo District, as shown on Reference Plan EPP118799, adjacent to the properties legally described as Block 45 and Block 52, District Lot 629, Cariboo District and remove the road dedication, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #2 below
The purpose of the road closureistoenable the sale of the closed road area to the adjacent property owner.The proposed closureand sale provides the property owner the ability
to consolidate the closed road area with their adjacent property and to rectify an existing encroachment.
On adoption of the Bylaw and pursuant to the provisions of Section 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Prince George intends to sell to Pinedale Auto Wreckers (1989) Ltd. that portion of road adjacent to Block 45 and Block 52, District Lot 629, Cariboo District for asale price of $21,442.
Location Map #2
1652 Boundary Road Road Closure
3. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9278, 2021”
Applicant: Kidd Real Estate Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. BC821509
Subject Property: 7025 Kennedy Crescent
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9278, 2021 proposes to rezone the subject property from RS1m: Suburban Residential to RS2: Single Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9278, 2021.
The purpose of this application is to facilitate atwo-lot subdivision on the subject property,or other uses, pursuant to the RS2: Single Residential zoning designation with each lot measuring approximately 510 m2 (squaremetres) in size. The applicant intends to demolish the existing residence on the subject property and construct two (2) single family residences.
In accordance with Section 464(2) of the Local Government Act, aPublic Hearing regarding this application will not be held as the proposed Bylaw is consistent with the “City of Prince George Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8383, 2011” that is in effect for the subject area.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as described as Lot 1, District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 18570, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #3 below
Location Map #3 7025 Kennedy Crescent
4. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9236, 2021”
Applicant: Jacqueline Smith for Tyler Borrowman
Subject Properties: 1914 and 1920 Juniper Street
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9236, 2021 proposes to rezone the subject properties from RS4: Urban Residential to RT2: Two-Unit Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9236, 2021.
The purpose of this application is to facilitate the development of atwo-unit house (duplex) on the existing vacant subject properties, or other uses, pursuant to the RT2: Two-Unit Residential zoning designation.
CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS
In accordance with Section 464(2) of the Local Government Act,apublic hearing regarding this application will not be held as the proposed Bylaw is consistent with the “City of Prince George Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8383, 2011” that is in effect for the subject area.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the properties legally described as Lot 17 and Lot 18, Block 343, District Lot 343, Cariboo District, Plan 1268, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #4 below
Location Map #4 1914 and 1920 Juniper Street
5. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9261, 2021”
Applicant: L&M Engineering Ltd. for North Realty Group Ltd., Inc. No. BC0875402
Subject Property: 3961 Austin Road West
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9261, 2021 proposes to rezone the subject property from C7: Transitional Commercial and RS2m: Single Residential to RM5: Multiple Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9261, 2021.
The purpose of this application is to facilitate the development of amixed-use apartment on the subject property,orother uses, pursuant to the RM5: Multiple Residential zoning designation. The existing single detached house on the subject property will be demolished to facilitate the proposed mixed-use development.
In accordance with Section 464(2) of the Local Government Act,apublic hearing regarding this application will not be held as the proposed Bylaw is consistent with the “City of Prince George Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8383, 2011” that is in effect for the subject area.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Parcel F(Being aConsolidation of Lots 9and 10, see CA9647815), District Lot 4047, Cariboo District, Plan 9543, as shown on the Location Map #5 below
Location Map #5
3961 Austin Road West
HOW CAN IPARTICIPATEAND PROVIDE COMMENT?
Members of the public may provide written comments to Council.
Written comments received by the Corporate Officer before 5:00 p.m., Tuesday,April 19, 2022 will be available on the published meeting agenda for Council’sreview in advance of the meeting date. Written comments received after the noted deadline and before 12:00 p.m., Monday, April 25, 2022 will be provided to Council on the day of the meeting for their consideration during deliberations on the application.
Written comments may be sent by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, faxed to (250)561-0183, or mailed or delivered to the address noted below
Written comments will form part of the Council agenda, become public record, and areposted on the City’swebsite. By submitting awritten comment 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, BC, V2L 3V9.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Acopy of the proposed Bylaws and other related documents will be available for review by the public on the City’swebsite www.princegeorge.ca under ‘News and Notices’ beginning Wednesday,April 13, 2022. These documents may also be reviewed at the Development Services office on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on April 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 25, 2022 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m
WHO CAN ISPEAK TO?
For moreinformation, please contact Development Services in person, by telephone at (250)561-7611, or by email to devserv@princegeorge.ca.
For moreinformation regarding Road Closures, please contact Real Estate Services in person, by telephone at (250)561-7611, or by email to realestate@princegeorge.ca.
How can Iparticipate and provide comment? Anyonewhobelievesthattheirinterestinlandisaffected bytheproposedbylawshallbeaffordedareasonable opportunitytobeheardatthepublichearingortopresent writtencommentspriortooratthepublichearingregarding matterscontainedinthebylaws.
Attend through telephone conference call: Contactthe RegionalDistrictat250-960-4400ordevelopmentservices@ rdffg.bc.caforthetelephoneconferencenumberand instructions
Attend in person: Attendanceatpublichearingsmustfollow provincialhealthorders.Membersofthepublicinterestedin participatinginthepublichearinginpersonmayattendat: Regional District BoardRoom 155 George Street, Prince George BC
Submit written comments:Writtencommentswillbe acceptedbytheRegionalDistrictinadvanceofthepublic hearinguntil9:00amonApril26,2022by: Email:developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca Hand/Mail: 155GeorgeStreet,PrinceGeorge,BCV2L1P8 Fax: 250-562-8676
Who can Ispeak to? DanielBurke,PlannerII,250-960-4400
Average P.G. home price nearly
$520,000 during first
CITIZEN STAFF
Single family homes in Prince George sold for $519,979 on average during the first quarter of the year, according to numbers released by the B.C. Northern Real Estate Board.
The figure represents a $69,078 increase over the averagepricehomeswentforduringthefirstquarterlastyear.
The figure was offset by a decline to 189 from 227 in the number of homes that exchanged hands. However both the number of homes up for sale and the time they remained on the market were significantly lower than for the same period last year.
“Housing markets across the north started 2022 with sales trending about 25 per cent above long-term average levels, suggesting the potential for yet another strong year,” BCNREB said in a news release.
“Unfortunately, the region is suffering from extremely low supply, which means continued upward pressure on home prices.
“We expect markets will remain tight through the first half of 2022 before rising mortgage rates and continued tightening by the Bank of Canada begins to temper demand by the summer.”
Looking at properties of all types, 282 worth $141.4 million were sold during the first quarter, down from 374
quarter
Housing markets across the north started 2022 with sales trending about 25 per cent above longterm average levels, suggesting the potential for yet another strong year.
worth $150.3 million over the same period last year.
In the western part of the city, the median price of the 53 single-family homes that have sold on MLS® was $ $445,000, up by $34,500.
In the Bowl east of Highway 97, the 53 single-family homes that sold had a median value of $ $419,900, up by $84,900.
In the Hart, 27 single-family homes sold with a median price of $502,000, up by $82,000.
In the southwest, 56 homes have sold since January with a median price of $620,250 up $112,750.
At the end of March there were 285 properties of all types available through the Multiple Listing Service, compared to 192 during the first quarter of 2021.
Unemployment rate below B.C., national average
ANNUAL REPORTING ON REGIONALDISTRICTFINANCES
Annual Reporting on Regional District Finances will be made at the regular meeting of the Regional DistrictBoard,tobeheld April 21,2022 at 1:30 p.m. The meetingaudio will be livestreamed on the Regional District website www.rdffg.bc.ca.
The Annual Reporting on RegionalDistrict Finances to be made at themeeting is available for inspection on theRegional District websitewww.rdffg.bc.ca and at the RegionalDistrict in personbycontacting financialservices@rdffg.bc.ca
K. Jensen GM Legislative and Corporate Services
CITIZEN STAFF
Prince George’s unemployment rate in March rose to 3.8 per cent, up from 3.2 per cent in February.
However, the city’s unemployment rate was stilldownsignificantlyfrom the 5.9 per cent reported in March 2021, according to data reported by Statistics Canada on Friday.
The city shed about 500 jobs between February and March, with the number of people employed dropping from 54,200 to 53,700. There were 51,300 people working in the city in March 2021.
The city’s participation rate in March was 67.7 per cent, compared to 67.5 per cent in March 2021.
Prince George’s unemployment remained lower than the B.C. average of 5.1 per cent in March. The province’s unemployment rate was the third-lowest in Canada. The national unemployment rate fell 0.2 percentage points to 5.3 (per cent), the lowest rate on record since comparable data became available in 1976.
Conservation North holds Rebellion for Forests
Conservation North held its second annual Rebellion for Forests rally in downtown Prince George as part of the global Scientist Rebellion week of action.
Roughly 50 people came to Wood Innovation Square to celebrate intact oldgrowth forests as a defense against the climate crisis.
“Unfortunately, industrial logging of oldgrowth for lumber, and other forests for pellets is contributing to the global climate crisis instead of providing B.C. with a natural climate solution,” explained Michelle Connolly, Conservation North’s director.
UNBC professor Phil Burton, who is a forest ecologist, spoke to the crowd regarding forestry practices.
“The good news is that our forests in this part of the world are resilient. They do bounce back after logging too but our forest landscapes, our wildlife is not so resilient after repeated logging, 60 or 80 years after the first harvesting,” said Burton.
He said the difference between oldgrowth primary forests and secondary forests may not be visible to most members of the public, but is detectable by wildlife like martens, fishers, caribou, grizzly bears, and wolverines.
“The planning of our provincial government, of our ministry of forests, is that every tree every stick of timber is up for
grabs for manufacturing and commercial products unless it is set aside otherwise. It puts the onus on others, on conservationists and ecologists, to say ‘please don’t touch that’ and perhaps that onus should be reversed.”
UNBC professor Art Fredeen addressed the global Scientist Rebellion, which is a movement of scientists from a variety of backgrounds who believe scientists should be resisting on the front
LocalAccess toaGlobalNetwork
lines against climate change, and how it relates to forestry.
He said many scientists hide behind a fear of being biased and believe they must just process data.
“We are the only ones who know how to tell that story that the data is providing and yet many of us muzzle ourselves and don’t say anything because heaven forbid we become known as an environmentalist,” said Fredeen.
“When I do science, I put my science hat on but that doesn’t mean I can’t put on other hats. We all do in the world that we live in, so this is really just us saying we are up against an enormous emergency so to sit by and throw our papers out into journals that nobody reads – it is not helping.”
He said climate change is an existential problem, meaning if it’s not addressed, we may not be here in the future to address it.
“These ancient forests were here, many of them, long before we arrived – our settlers – they go back a long time. They are very precious, and we should treat them that way. They are treasures.”
The rally was also opened by Lheidli T’enneh Elder Edie Frederick and featured drumming from Khast’an drummer Brenda Wilson.
“Dakelh spirituality really coincides with what is happening here today,” said Frederick.
“In our belief system, we believe that everything, animals right down to the smallest insect, every tree, every bush, even the sky, the winds the environment all have spirit and that is the basis of our spirituality.”
Conservation North held the first Rebellion for Forest Rally in March 2021 shortly after it released the report Seeing Red which is the first province-wide cumulative impacts map and the first visual account of the last remaining old-growth forests in the province.
Take advantageofsecure, convenientequipment storage
If youwanttosellatany Ritchie Bros.online event, don’t want to transport your assets far, and want to free up space in your ownyard, we nowoffer equipment storage at ourPrinceGeorgeyard. Drop your equipmentoff,and have it sold it virtually!
The public hearing into Bylaw No. 3244 was originally opened on Thursday March 17, 2022 and recessed by the Chair due to technical issues. This notice is for the re-opening of that public hearing meeting.
How can Iparticipate and provide comment? Anyonewhobelievesthattheirinterestinlandisaffected bytheproposedbylawshallbeaffordedareasonable opportunitytobeheardatthepublichearingortopresent writtencommentspriortooratthepublichearingregarding matterscontainedinthebylaws.
Attend through telephone conference call: Contactthe RegionalDistrictat250-960-4400or developmentservices@rdffg.bc.caforthetelephone conferencenumberandinstructions
Attend in person:Attendanceatpublichearingsmustfollow provincialhealthorders.Membersofthepublicinterestedin participatinginthepublichearinginpersonmayattendat: Regional District BoardRoom 155 George Street, Prince George BC
Need moreinfo? AcopyoftheproposedBylawandany relevantbackgroundmaterialsareavailableforreviewbythe publicontheRegionalDistrict’swebsiteat http://www.rdffg.bc.ca/services/development/land-useplanning/current-applications/orattheRegionalDistrict office,byappointmentonly,MondaythroughFriday,8:00 a.m.to4:30p.m.,betweenMarch23andApril21,2022. TheRegionalDistrictofficewillbeclosedonApril15and18, 2022.TomakeanappointmentcontacttheRegionalDistrict at developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca orat250-960-4400.
Who can Ispeak to?DevelopmentServices,250-960-4400
SD57 names
first Indigenous Assistant Superintendent
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
School District No. 57 (SD57) is now the first in the province to appoint an Assistant Superintendent to lead Indigenous education within the district.
SD57 has announced Pam Spooner, who has been the director of SD57’s Indigenous education department for the past three years, will take on the new position.
An Indigenous Assistant Superintendent was one of the suggestions that came out of the Special Advisor’s Report released in 2021, commissioned by the Ministry of Education.
It was also one of the calls from the Indigenous Education Leadership Table, formed between Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and McLeod Lake Indian Band in January, to engage in direct dialogue with the board of education.
PAM SPOONER
“I’ve never heard of anything like it in the province, with an Indigenous superintendent specifically for Indigenous education, reporting right to the district’s superintendent,” said Sharel Warrington, chair of the board of trustees in a release.
“Pam is a strong, compassionate, and humble Indigenous leader. She is well positioned to promote the development of policies and programs for Indigenous learners and to collaborate, and build relationships with local, regional, and provincial organizations on education initiatives.”
Spooner is Gitxsan from the wilps Niisto (house of matriarch chief Niisto) of the Laxseel (Frog) Clan. She is also of Wet’suwet’en ancestry. She grew up on reserve in the Hazelton area (born in Kispiox) before moving to Lheidli territory in 1989 where she embarked on a long path of education and raised her five children.
These factors all played a role in the Gitxsan name bestowed to her: Guu si wilaaks’m hlgu ganaa’w which means “she is always teaching – Little Frog Teacher.”
Spooner has also been a math teacher, elementary teacher, vice-principal at the elementary and secondary level, principal, and spent a year in the Okanagan as principal of their Indigenous education stream before moving back to Lheidli territory to be the director of Indigenous education – the first holder of that position.
“I have never been about hierarchy, it is all about the work,” said Spooner.
“This is the work of reconciliation, having a stronger Indigenous voice at all the tables, but it’s important to know that I was already doing that. That work was already underway because SD57 made Indigenous education outcomes a priority. They are actually proving that they respect that reconciliation needs to happen, and they respect the nations, the rights-holders, because there is still so much farther to go before we can say things are where they should be for Indigenous students and staff...”
In memory: Ron Neukomm, aka ‘Mr. Rotary’
CITIZEN STAFF
Ron Neukomm, a born-and-raised Prince George resident and devoted community volunteer, passed away Wednesday at Rotary Hospice House. Neukomm was commonly referred to as “Mr. Rotary” among local Rotarians for his tireless work with the service club. He served as Rotary district governor in 2004-2005, overseeing 54 Rotary clubs and 1,900 Rotarians in the Lower Mainland, the Central Interior and the north coast. He was a regular volunteer with Operation Red Nose, the longtime major fundraiser for Nechako Rotary, the club he joined shortly after it was created in 1986. He took great pride in his 30 years of perfect attendance for weekly club meetings.
Along with Rotary, Neukomm also served as a director and vice-president of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce and sat as a board director with the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame and the United Way. He was named an honorary life member
Money pours in for injured pedestrian
International student hit by van on April 6
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Nearly $130,000 has been raised for a young woman who was hit by a vehicle while using a pedestrian crosswalk in Prince George, as of Monday.
Amritpal Kaur is a 24-year-old international student from India, who was crossing the street at Fifth Avenue and Stuart Drive on the morning of April 6 when she was hit by van.
She was unconscious and categorized as medically very critical and airlifted to Vancouver General Hospital where she had been in a coma since the impact, as of Monday.
Her friend Sonam Sidhu set up a GoFundMecampaigntohelpprovidefunding for the long-term medical support she will need and assist with bringing Kaur’s husband to Canada from Punjab, India.
In the GoFundMe, Sidhu explains Kaur has suffered a severe brain injury alongside a suspected stroke.
Kaur is also battling collapsed lungs, a tear in her liver and multiple broken bones.
“Doctors have informed us she is in a worse condition than they had initially
thought, therefore if she improves her recovery will takes minimum months if not years - with no promise that she will live a normal life,” writes Sidhu.
“She is surrounded by an excellent team with trauma surgeons and neurosurgeons working closely together to find the best possible outcome.”
Over five thousand separate donations have since poured in to support Kaur totalling $128,187 as of Monday morning.
In an update, Sidhu explained Kaur’s visa application has been submitted for her husband who is hoping to fly out in a few days to be with his wife.
The City of Prince George says the Fifth Avenue crosswalk where Kaur was hit is budgeted for upgrades this summer and crews will be installing pedestrian-controlled flashing lights to improve visibility.
Prince George RCMP notes the investigation into the collision is still ongoing and is asking anyone who may have information to come forward.
Investigators are asking anyone who might have dash camera footage from the section of Fifth Avenue between Foothills Boulevard and Highway 97 at 7 a.m. on April 6 to come forward by calling the Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300.
of the Prince George Child Development Centre for his 12 years of board service, including a term as president. A devoted member of St. Andrew’s United Church, Neukomm worked on the church’s maintenance committee.
In more recent years, he made hundreds of trips over several summers out to the Ancient Forest as part of the volunteer crew that built the Universal Boardwalk.
Neukomm was named a 2017 Citizen of the Year by the Prince George Community Foundation, receiving the honour alongside his wife, Dee, who is a founding member of Special Olympics Prince George, a provincial and national Special Olympics Female Coach of the Year and a 1999 inductee into the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame.
Dee, their son Curtis and family members were at his side when he passed. He is predeceased by his daughter Lara.
A celebration of life for Neukomm was held on April 9 at Trinity United Church in Prince George.
PRINCE GEORGE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION PHOTO
Ron Neukomm and his wife Dee were named 2017 Citizens of the Year for their extensive volunteer work.
OPINION
Free speech a hill worth dying on
Free speech is a core value of a modern democracy, most people agree, but most people believe it more in theory than in practice Despite the fact that there is more access to more information and opinion than ever before, many people want to constrain this freedom in order to protect freedom.
The moment anyone talks about limiting free speech, there are many questions to ask: whose speech are you restricting; what are they saying that warrants that restriction; who is being protected; do the affected individuals need protecting; and will restricting speech actually protect those individuals. But the most important question is how is taking away freedom good for freedom?
History is littered with people with good intentions (and people acting like they have good intentions but are actually seizing power for themselves) arguing that the current crisis is so dangerous to society that dissenting viewpoints can’t be tolerated. Around the world, both the left and the right have used this argument to silence opposition and destroy lives.
Currently, the right complain about cancel culture but their beef is actually about free speech. Currently, the left fret about hurtful and offensive viewpoints expressed by the privileged and the powerful but their grievance is actually about free speech. Put bluntly, they both want you to shut the hell up because they think you’re wrong and a menace to society.
Too many people on both sides would rather not make their concerns a free speech issue because to do so means they have shared interests with people they vehemently disagree with and they are then obligated to respect the right of those individuals to speak freely with as much passion as they want for themselves and views they agree with.
Sadly, a growing number of people on both sides of the political fence think opposing views shouldn’t be heard because they are “misleading.” Democracy is based on a belief in the wisdom of citizens to choose their own leaders and what personal values and beliefs they will adopt and teach their children. Those individual choices can be challenged but to question whether people should be free to make them and express those beliefs is to question democracy itself.
Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appli financier du gouvernement du Canada.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
THE POWER OF PASSOVER
I’m thinking of the power of Passover, starting next Friday evening. Imagine – a group of people - tired of slavery. oppression and abuse – stood up and just walked away. In spite of the obvious and unknown risks and threats. They simply walked away – and kept walking and walking and walking. Those people never reached their promised land, but their children did. Only those born in the desert were able to know real freedom. Are you ready to walk? Are you already in the desert heading towards your promised land? May G-d watch over you on your journey to freedom Happy Pesach from the Prince George Jewish Community.
Eli Klasner Prince George
Note: Jews don’t say the four-lettered Hebrew name of G-d and if writing it, can never destroy the paper that it is written on, and so as an equivalent act in English we simply don’t write the complete word, and so the hyphen substitute is a way of writing it, without writing it.
TRAILS SPENDING NEEDED
Neil Godbout’s editorial on how to “Spend the [$28 million Fortis] gas money wisely” (Citizen, April 7) had a
notable omission; one that, coincidently, was discussed in a letter in the same issue about the state of the city’s cycling and walking infrastructure.
We are emerging from a two-year pandemic in which the only recreational infrastructures to remain fully open wereourtrails,parksandopenspaces.It’snotanexaggeration to say that they were mental and physical life savers for many Prince George is generously endowed with trails and greenspaces, but many are still rustic, informal or poorly maintained. One example is the terrible state and continuing erosion of the Heritage River Trail along the Nechako River; and another is the lack of any safe walking and cycling path from the Hart to downtown.
For decades, the city has spent hundreds of millions of capital dollars on bricks and mortar recreational and other civic facilities, while a relatively tinier capital investment has been made in what appears to be the number one used recreational facility, our trails system. We can all agree on the need to maintain roads, sidewalks, water and sewer infrastructure as a first priority, but in a public process to consider the Fortis windfall, let’s find out where people see our trails infrastructure in the broader wish list; especially in light of its obvious importance and high usage in what we’ve just been through.
Mike Nash, Prince George
250-562-6666
cls@pgcitizen.ca
PUBLISHER 250-960-2757
carmstrong@pgcitizen.ca
READER SALES AND SERVICES
250-562-3301
rss@pgcitizen.ca
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@pgcitizen.ca
WEBSITE FEEDBACK digital@glaciermedia.ca
Conservatives need new material
April 7 was federal budget day. After coming to terms with the NDP, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tabled a Liberal budget.
DespitewhattheConservativepundits and politicians would have us believe, this is not an “NDP budget” nor is it a “tax-and-spend budget.”
These are tired, worn-out catchphraseswhichtherightshouldretire.
After all, all governments tax their citizens and all governments spend the resulting revenues. The money is used to buy us roads, bridges, hospitals, buildings, police forces, armies, schools, and a host of other necessities for which we are willing to collectively pay. Or, at least, the majority of Canadians are willing to pay.
The phrase “tax-and-spend” is simply what all governments do.
The question really is “how much do they tax and on what are they spending it?”
AS I SEE IT TODD WHITCOMBE
What the Conservatives contend about this budget is Canadians will be saddled with tax hikes while the money is being spent on frivolous items, such as social programs and dental care for children. That isn’t what they would do.
No. The Conservative would give the money to big corporations. Give the money to companies and businesses. CEOs know what to do, they say. Or, at least, that is the approach the Conservatives took in addressing the financial collapse in 2008. Billions of taxpayers dollars going to the business sector to stimulate the economy.
Did it work? One could make
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
GAS PRICES DON’T MAKE SENSE
I am writing this letter to hopefully bring awareness to the blatant price gouging of gas prices in central B.C.
During the initial surge of both WTI and Brent oil to $135-$140 per barrel respectively, prices in B.C. surged together.
Right now, the current price of both Brent and WTI are $109 and $104 per barrel, respectively.
It has been in this range for the last three weeks and prices have not dropped in certain areas of the province and I believe it is due to the fact that these oil companies are gouging small towns and cities because there are less eyes on them.
I have laid out a comparison of regular quality gas prices in major areas of B.C. below.
The rack prices are based off Petro Canada gas prices as theirs are the most complete.
Vancouver metro price of gas per litre
During surge: $2 - $2.18
Now: $1.89-$2.10
Wholesale rack price: $1.29
Vancouver fuel tax: $0.17/L Nanaimo
During surge: $2.02/L
Now: $1.89L
Wholesale rack price: $1.30.6
Dawson Creek/Fort St. John
During surge: $1.99
Now $1.81-1.89
Prince George and Vanderhoof
During surge: $1.93 - $1.99
Now: No change.
Wholesale rack price
$1.26.3
Prince Rupert and Terrace
During surge: $1.99
Now: No change
Wholesale rack price: $1.27
As you can see there has been no change in the Prince George area as well as Prince Rupert but in many areas of
arguments on both sides of the question. But the one thing for sure is the peopleatthetop–therichestoneper cent – saw their incomes and wealth skyrocket under the Conservatives.
I would prefer a “tax-and-spend” budget to a “tax-me-and-give-it-to-therich” budget any day of the week.
As to an NDP budget, I would note the Conservatives had no problem having the Liberals support their budget in 2009. Indeed, the opposition could have brought the government down over the budget but didn’t.
At some point, minority governments have to find a way to run the country.
The good of the country comes before politics. Or it should. This makes for strange partnerships.
The Conservatives might not like it but the Liberals have found a way to get us through the next three years and that is in our best interest.
the province it has dropped significantly.
For the first time in decades, Prince George and Prince Rupert are paying higher prices than Vancouver.
The current gas prices in our regions do not make any sense.
How can Vancouver gas cost less than Prince George and Prince Rupert when they have a 17 cent tax that we don’t and their wholesale prices are higher?
Excuses such as “fuel is coming from the south” can’t be made because then Fort St John would have lower prices than Prince George.
“Fuel from the north” also can’t be made because in that case, Vancouver would have higher prices.
It seems that central B.C. is being targeted by higher prices for its remote locations and it needs to be brought to everyone’s attention.
The cost of delivering fuel to the region does not justify the price at the pumps.
I urge you to bring this issue forward so people can be held accountable.
Kevin Barredo Vanderhoof
NEED LONGER WHITCOMBE COLUMNS
I have just read one of Todd Whitcombe’s opinion pieces and was disappointed that it did not contain the normal detail they have contained in the past.
He said that is because you limit his content to 375 words and he can’t describe what he wanted to in what space he had.
Three-hundred-and-seventy-five words is not enough to explain anything in the detail necessary for a complete understanding, especially with the subjects that Todd takes on.
You are allowing me more that that just for this contact. Surely you don’t limit reporters to those kinds of restrictions?
Peter Bowen
Prince George
COMMUNITY POLL
Participate in this week’s poll. Go to princegeorgecitizen.com, scroll down to the Community Poll, and vote!
RESULTS
from last week’s polls:
How should the City of Prince George spend the $28.3 million Fortis deal proceeds?
● Fix crumbling sewer and water lines first – 471 votes (34%)
● Build more housing and social services for low-income and vulnerable residents first –179 votes (13%)
● Build a new arena to replace Rolling Mix Concrete Arena first –42 votes (3%)
● Build a performing arts centre to replace the Playhouse first – 102 votes (7%)
● Pay down long-term debt and reduce taxes first – 578 votes (43%)
What kind of development does downtown need?
● Supermarket – 204 votes (32%)
● Department store – 135 votes (21%)
● Downtown campus of UNBC/CNC –68 votes (10%)
● Arts centre – 72 votes (11%)
● More housing – 169 votes (26%)
LETTERS WELCOME: The Prince George Citizen welcomes letters to the editor from our readers. Submission should be sent by e-mail to: letters@pgcitizen.ca. No attachments, please. They can also be faxed to 250-562-7453, or mailed to Box 5700, 150 Brunswick St., Prince George V2L 5K9. Maximum length is 400 words and writers are limited to one submission every three weeks. We will edit letters only to ensure clarity, good taste, for legal reasons, and occasionally for length. Although we will not include your address and telephone number in the paper, we need both for verification purposes. Unsigned letters will not be published.
Northern provincial ridings at risk
In October of last year, the provincial government appointed the Electoral Boundaries Commission and tasked them with recommending new provincial electoral boundaries before the next election. The appointment of the new commission followed amendments to the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, removing explicit protections for ridings in rural British Columbia.
In March of this year, the Electoral Boundaries Commission began holding public consultations throughout the province, beginning in the Lower Mainland Under legislative requirements set in the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, the commission must seek to recommend electoral districts with populations within plus or minus 25 per cent of the average electoral district population, which is about 57,000 people.
The commission is empowered to recommend the creation of up to six additional seats in the BC Legislature, meaning the total number of seats may be raised to a maximum of 93 (up from 87).
The commission may also choose to recommend the merging of existing electoral districts
A review of current electoral district populations shows that there is significant risk that communities in northern and rural British Columbia will lose representation in the Legislative Assembly. Northern BC, which has a population of just over 300,000, is currently represented by 9 MLAs. Should the commission choose to adjust riding boundaries to represent the provincial average, the number of seats in the north could be reduced to less than 6.
A review of current electoral district populations shows that there is significant risk that communities in northern and rural British Columbia will lose representation in the Legislative Assembly.
Representation is especially important in northern British Columbia, where lack of connectivity and inefficient transportation options provide barriers to access for elected officials and government. Many of our communities do not have adequate access to internet or cell phone service, making it difficult for residents to depend on virtual connectivity with their representatives.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH GAS PRICES?
Why is it that the gas prices in Prince George are still sitting at 193.9? Oil prices have dropped. Prices in Vancouver are 187.9 to 189.9. This includes their 18.5 transit tax which does not apply to us, so they are REALLY paying less than us.
Mackenzie is currently at 179.7, which is surprising as I believe their fuel is trucked in from here.
Costco is at 179.9.
Can anyone from the fuel companies explainwhywe’recontinuingtobegouged at the pump?
Ken Flanagan
Prince George
ATM THEFT BAD KARMA
Last Friday, I went to an RBC branch in Prince George to withdraw $120. The time
at the ATM machine was 5:58 P.M.
As we had just arrived in Prince George, I was pre-occupied with many thoughts. Since I did a mini statement, that in itself made me forget to pick up the cash that I withdrew.
IcalledthePrinceGeorgeRBCandfound out that the lady who did the transaction right behind me cancelled her transaction once she saw the $120 cash in the ATM dispenser.
What do most people do in this situation? I could only speak for myself. I have personally found an individuals card left in the machine.
I took it out and returned it to the front desk manager.
I also found a $480 voucher left in a Keno machine vendor. I returned it to the manager.
I found another $80 voucher. I returned that voucher as well.
If that lady behind me called out to me or returned it to the bank teller, that would have been an honest thing to do.
The already vast geography of northern ridings makes it challenging to effectively represent constituents. For example, the MLA from Stikine covers the largest geographic territory (196,484 sq km) out of any riding in BC, while also representing the lowest population in the province.
This is exactly why protections had previously been put in place to protect rural ridings. With these protections now gone, our representation is at risk.
It is important that residents living outside of major population centres maintain access to their elected officials.
Residents in Northern British Columbia deserve a right to meet with MLAs face to face.
It is expected that the commission will travel to northern BC sometime in April, following visits to Vancouver Island and the Okanagan The commission will seek community input through public hearings at select locations across the province They will also review submissions made online.
It is vital that British Columbians living in northern and remote areas across British Columbia recognize what is at stake in this ongoing riding boundary redistribution process.
To protect our voices, residents can sign up to speak at an upcoming public hearing to express the importance of effective representation in northern and rural communities.
Hearing dates will be posted on the Electoral Boundaries Commission website (www.bcebc.ca) once they are scheduled
There is a lot at stake for our communities. If you have any questions about the process, we encourage you to reach out to your local MLA or Chamber office.
Todd Corrigall is the CEO of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce
While we all understand the vast geographical challenges our MLAs face today, we need to ensure that the Electoral Boundaries Commission fully comprehends the challenges surrounding the physical separation of our communities.
There was really nothing that RBC could do as she was not an RBC client. What’s the moral of this story?
I have lost wallets with cash in it. I found it! I lost a purse with all my ID in in Vancouver.
It was found and returned to me and other situations.
Bottom line is if you’re dishonest and any of the above things happen to you, you will never get your money back or your personal belongings.
If you’re honest and find cash or client cards, return it and good karma will always follow you. If you’re dishonest, bad karma follows.
Jean Sam Burns Lake
DON’T CALL THEM STRONGMEN
In the context of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the slaughter of peace-loving
Ukrainians as well as the rising tide of despotism around the world and south of our border, it is surely time for the news media to rethink their use of the word “strongmen.”
If there is even a slight likelihood that Putin’s taste for human blood is excited by this unfortunate misnomer, think of a more appropriate word.
Words matter.
Consider the connotation of the word strongmen.
There is a real probability that in the minds of insecure and paranoid individuals describing them as strongmen gives them a gift. In times of trouble, this description might give new energy and sick validation to the psycho tyrants of the world.
For the record, despots of the world do not vary on the basics.
They lust after power and blood and are invariably insecure, paranoid and weak.
Norm Sorenson
Prince George
Finland has experience in what Ukraine is going through
In November 1939, the Soviet Union invaded the Republic of Finland, sparingtheWinterWar.Withinfourmonths, they even created the Karelo-Finnish Soviet Socialist Republic to presumably govern the newly conquered territory as a full union republic
Based on all reliable evidence it appears their intention was to fix what the Soviet leadership considered to a mistake of history.
Namely that during the Russian Revolution the Grand Duchy of Finland had declared its independence from the Russian Empire and had been allowed to keep it when other breakaway states like Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, and Ukraine had been forcibly reincorporated. Finland, of course, was not the only part of the former Russian Empire the Soviet Union wished to take over and the Baltic Republics of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania would be taken over the following year.
the two wars, I think there are a few things we can learn from the past to help inform the present.
First, without foreign intervention it is unlikely Ukraine will win the war.
This sentence sounds harsh, but I would argue it is something recognized by Ukrainian leadership, who have actively sought outside intervention from the United States, the European Union, NATO, and quite frankly anyone who is willing to help.
At what point does peace become so desirable that Ukraine is willing to give up Crimea and/or agree to not join NATO?
They are receiving much-needed aid but just the other day I came across an ad on Facebook asking if I wanted to join the Ukrainian International Legion. Of course, the ad was not specifically targeted at me, but it is indicative of the desire for aid Ukraine currently has and I would encourage people to provide support in whatever way they can, such as donating to UNBC student Vova Plizhnikov’s Red Cross Campaign.
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Naturally, Finland resisted the Soviet Union. Using their environment and culture to their advantage they not only dug in on the Karelian Isthmus, but also captured the world’s imagination as they engaged the Soviets on cross-country skis. Turns out the biathlon is more than just a sporting event!
In their spare time, they developed the Molotov cocktail, named after the Soviet foreign minister who among other things had signed the secret Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact that divided Eastern Europe between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. FinlandheldoutagainsttheSovietUnion until March 1940 and then signed the Moscow Peace Treaty, which cost them land, the associated economic resources, and their second largest city of Viipuri
All of this took place with the rest of the world watching and in theory supporting Finland Indeed, foreign volunteers even travelled to Finland to fight the Soviets, but then as now, none of the other world powers would intervene and Finland was left to fight on its own.
If the parallels between the Winter War and the current Russo-Ukrainian War are not obvious to you, they should be.
As the successor state to the Soviet Union that borders Finland, Russia still holds the territory gained by the Winter War, as well as additional territory lost during the Continuation War, in which Finland sided with Nazi Germany in an attempt to undo the Treaty of Moscow, only to lose more land when Nazi Germany lost. Given the similarities between
Second, as the war progresses it becomes more likely that we will see a peace in which no one is happy.
Russia is not doing well but the world is watching as they destroy Kharkiv, Mariupol, and Kyiv. At what point does peace become so desirable that Ukraine is willing to give up Crimea and/or agree to not join NATO?
It was this sort of Faustian bargain that eventually got Finland in the end. Was it worth fighting the Soviet Union and potentially losing more lives and/or territory in the end or agreeing to an undesirable peace and at least having peace? Wars of attrition are a number game and given the population difference Russia can potentially lose more soldiers and still win the war.
And finally, we should not underestimate Russia.
Hitler did and the Winter War was used to show that the Red Army was combat ineffective. Whether it is Vietnam, Afghanistan, or Iraq it should be clear by now that all of the great powers have a hard time fighting in a country where they are not universally welcome and are denied pitch battles. That being said, we have not seen the great powers engage in an all-out war with each other since the Second World War.
Make no mistake, they’re watching, they’re learning, and they’re planning.
Daniel Sims is an associate professor of First Nations Studies at UNBC, who has taught a course on the history of the Cold War. He is a member of the Tsay Keh Dene First Nation.
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Cirque du Soleil will be making its return to Prince George with its high-energy and high-acrobatic production OVO – a look into a new day in the life of insects through a non-stop riot of energy and movement.
“It is jubilant to have such a happy story to share with people after things have been crummy for people for the last couple of years, and to bring such a quality well known show to Prince George, it is just such a thrill,” said CN Centre entertainment manager Glen Mikkelsen, who was dressed as a caterpillar when he made the announcement to the community.
Through show-stopping acrobatics highlighting the unique personalities and abilities of selected insect species, OVO explores the beauty of biodiversity in all its contrasts and vibrancy.
“The theme is insects so there’s a whole different variety of bugs at play so there’s gnats that jump up and down and a spider and preying mantis and there’s all sorts,” added Mikkelsen.
“They are just such clever people putting this show on and incorporating those motions and movements of the insects that I think it will be truly fascinating.”
OVO will perform in Prince George at the CN Centre from June 30 – July 3, 2022 for seven performances.
Comprised of 100 people from 25 different countries, including 52 artists, OVO (“egg” in Portuguese) brings to the stage high-level acrobatic acts redefining the limits of the human body.
It is one of the largest high-flying shows ever undertaken by Cirque and bringing it
to the CN Centre will be quite a feat.
Mikkelsen explained the announcement had to be delayed so Cirque could send a rigging expert to check the ceiling of the CN Centre to make sure the show could fit given the building’s low ceiling.
The rigging expert asked if the ice would be in or out because even that inch-and-ahalf of ice would make a difference as to whether or not the show would fit in the building, but fortunately, the CN Centre got the green light.
Mikkelsen said the CN Centre will have
Library hosting used book sale
For the first time in over two years, the Prince George Public Library is hosting a book sale.
The book sale will be held at the Bob Harkins Branch, downtown, on April 22 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and April 23
from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Books are sold by donation with the proceeds going to support special items, programs, and initiatives at the PGPL. In the past members of the Friends of the P.G. Public Library received early access to the sales, but the society’s member accounts are out of date due to COVID-19.
to make some adjustments like removing some of the light fixtures, and taking down the central digital ring which hangs below the score clock.
“It is going to take a lot of pre-planning to get this show in here and there’s over 20 trucks that are coming with it so it will take weeks working with our crew and the various people that put on the shows to make this happen inside of the CN Centre,” said Mikkelsen.
Tourism Prince George CEO Colin Carson said he couldn’t be more thrilled that
Cirque du Soleil was brining OVO to the city.
“From a tourism perspective these events do wonders to drawing visitors, especially from the region and I think especially looking at this event and the weekend it is taking place it is a really good opportunity for us to get in front of this and really encourage people to come and check out Prince George that weekend,” said Carson.
Since OVO opened in Montreal in 2009, it has travelled to 155 cities in 26 countries.
Event supporting Ukrainian refugees
The Prince George Community Foundation is hosting a night of food, music and entertainment to help bring Ukrainian families fleeing the ravages of war to the city.
PG Live! For Ukraine, presented by Canadian Tire, will take place at the Coast Inn of the North on May 7. The evening will include dinner, music, performances by the Method Dance Society, silent auction, guest speakers and a chance to get dressed up. All the money raised will benefit the foundation’s newly-created Ukraine Humanitarian Support Fund, foundation director of development Mindy Stroet said.
“All donations, up to $10,000, will be matched (by the foundation),” Stroet said. “We’re looking forward to the community coming together to show that sense of spirit. Being part of a community is so much more than living in the same area.”
Thefoundationishopingtoraise$20,000 to $30,000, but the more money that is raised “the more support we can offer for the individuals and families who are coming to our community,” Stroet said.
The fund will directly benefit the local Share Hope Refugee Sponsorship Committee’s efforts to settle Ukrainian families in Prince George. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees estimates that more than four million people have fled Ukraine since Russia invaded in February, with most currently in neighbouring Poland and Moldova.
Share Hope committee chairperson Eva Gillis said the first Ukrainian family they are working with is “arriving imminently.”
“Right now the ones that are coming are able to get here themselves. They have family here,” Gillis said.
Tickets for PG Live! For Ukraine are $100 each, or $700 for a table of eight. Tickets are on sale now. Donations can be made directly to the Ukraine Humanitarian Support Fund on the foundation’s website.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
OVO will perform from June 30 – July 3, 2022 for seven performances.
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
CITIZEN STAFF
Movie showcases city’s natural beauty
Months before she died of pancreatic cancer, Nada Newell experienced the thrill of movie-making, a passion she shared with her father – Yugoslavian silent-film expressionism-era pioneer Franjo Ludic.
Her involvement as an executive producer and small-role actress alongside her husband Tom in the made-in-PrinceGeorge movie The Way To The Heart was one of the proudest moments of her life and it provided the emotional backdrop for the Prince George Civic Centre audience that attended Friday’s premiere screening.
Nada never got to see her father making movies. His involvement in the industry happened decades before she was born. After years of success living in Berlin, his career ended abruptly in the mid-1920s with the collapse of Germany’s economy between the two world wars. Ledic invested his life savings to open Yugoslavia’s first film studio in 1925 but after the first movie he made there flopped, the studio soon went bankrupt and he ended his career making short films and working in a leather factory.
Having moved to Canada as a young adult, leaving her parents behind in Zagreb, Nada identified with one of the central themes of The Way To The Heart, the sense of loss and strain of trying to maintain family ties while separated by great distances and the triumph of rekindling those ties. Writer Alexa Gilker adapted the script to include personal details about Tom and Nada and how owning that Cadillac was a labour of love they shared together in the time it took to make that antique road-worthy.
Mom’s The Word debuts Thursday
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Originally scheduled to be performed last season, Theatre NorthWest is gearing up to present Mom’s The Word a comedy about the early years of parenting.
Part comedy, part variety show, the women in Mom’s The Word share their best and most hilarious personal confessions about– all the chaos, absurdity, heartache, and wonder of motherhood.
“I think for most mothers you can read about it and hear what your parents and grandparents talk about it, but when you actually get down to it, it’s always a surprise. Very few people are equipped emotionally or physically to do what you need to do as a parent,” said Deborah Williams, co-writer and director of the play.
“I think the key is to have the chance to laugh because it is ludicrous and you’re in charge all alone and isolated in these domestic cubicles of hell I like to call them,” laughed Williams.
Williams said Mom’s the Word is also a multi-sensory experience because it not only features storytelling but there’s also dancing and singing.
“We like to think about it as there’s a circle of women on the stage and the rest of the circle is created by the people in the audience, so it is a full circle and we just happen to be the people telling the stories to the audience this night,” said Williams.
“A lot of laughter, a lot of colour, and a few tears. It is a bit of a roller coaster. It is like a whole day in the life of a parent.”
Four actors from the Lower Mainland have been cast in the production as well as local actor Anna Russell.
Williams said for many involved with the production this is the first time they’ve been back in a theatre and rehearsal hall since the pandemic began.
“That has been such a treat being able to appreciate what we get to do for a living in a whole new way,” added Willams, who co-wrote the production with Linda A. Carson, Jill Daum, Alison Kelly, Robin Nichol, Barbara Pollard.
“This movie meant so much to her and part of the movie is very true, she picked that car, and it didn’t run for about two years after we got it,” said Tom Newell. “This is a dream that came true for her. When (director Wendy Ord) gave her the storyboard (which contains all her notes used during the filming), she came home and said it was the proudest day of her life, and now she knew why her dad loved movies so much.”
Shot last June, the Barker Street Cinema production is a love story that shows off the natural side of the city and its lush green natural beauty in a way no other movie filmed on location in Prince George has ever done. The city is mentioned by name, it’s not disguised to make it look like Smalltown USA. It’s guaranteed to bring a touch of pride to P.G. residents while it plucks at the heartstrings, as you would expect a romance movie would do.
The story revolves around Ava Miller (Meghan Heffern), a big-city chef who left her Prince George hometown after her mother died, partly to get away from curmudgeon father Donny (Peter Graham-Gaudreau). Ava falls into a rut as the head chef of a fancy restaurant and on the recommendation of her boss she comes back home to try to re-ignite her passion for cooking. Ava rekindles her love for Logan (Jon Cor), her childhood best friend, who operates a farmer’s market west of the city (the former Noah’s Ark Adventureland petting zoo). They spend time together paddling a canoe at Shane Lake and digging in the forest foraging for mushrooms and fiddleheads to bring to the market.
The movie will be shown daily on Super Channel until April 23 and it’s also available on demand starting today on the same channel until Sept. 30, 2023.
“We try to give everyone a chance to laugh at themselves. At us and at themselves.”
Mom’s The Word runs from April 14 until May 4 at Theatre Northwest at 556 North Nechako Road.
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
The Way To The Heart actors Bob Blumer and Sandra Clermont, with Clermont’s son Ethan at right, attended Saturday’s premiere at the Civic Centre.
Rogers Hometown Hockey fun for all ages
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Maroons netminder Hunter Laing was doing his best impression of a ball hockey goalie to keep the Lightning from scoring on him.
At six-foot-six and 195 pounds, the 15-year-old Prince George Cougars draft pick could have used some goalie gear to help take up more of the net, especially with sniper Craig Armstrong, on loan to the Lightning from the WHL Cougars, winding up on some snapshots that left welts on Laing’s body in their Sunday afternoon game.
They were all doing it for a good cause, to raise money for a local charity as part of the Desjardins Community Cup Shootout, one of the feature attractions of the Rogers Hometown Hockey festival happening over the weekend in the CN Centre parking lot.
“Our goalie kind of sucks,” said 14-yearold Noah Naegeli, while waiting to take his next shift for the Maroons.
Cougars defenceman Jaren Brinson was also on the Maroons’ side, but neither he nor Laing were earning much respect for their efforts on the outdoor rink.
“They’re not really helping that much, we’re doing all the work pretty much, they’re just sitting back there,” said Nathan Meise, 14.
The verbal jabs at Laing were relentless.
“The ball hockey’s going good, but the goalie is kind of letting us down,” offered Maroons forward Oliver Williams, 13.
“We’ve tried everyone in goal.”
The problem was the Maroons’ regular Prince George Minor Hockey U-14 house leaguegoaliewantedtobeaforwardforthe ball hockey game and left his goalie gear at home. As bad as it was for Laing, with his teammates dissing him, the Maroons had a healthy lead on the Lightning, despite
Armstrong’s best efforts to fill the net. Laing had a much different take on his own ball hockey goaltending skills.
“You know, I’m a Vezina goalie,” Laing said. “There’s no defence, so I don’t know. We’re the Detroit Red Wings out here, no defence. Armstrong is just ripping shots. But I think we’re winning by 20.
‘You’ve got to have the noise’
Continued from page 1
So what is it about Spruce Kings games that keeps her so connected to the rink?
“The atmosphere here is very friendly and you feel welcome when you walk in and I like hockey,” Parsons said.
She grew up on a hobby farm in Alberta and hockey was a daily family ritual. But back then, there were no hockey leagues for girls and she wasn’t allowed to play on her brother’s team
“We played on ponds in Nordegg, Alberta,” said Parsons. “As teenagers, that’s where we went to play and we played on ice ponds too. We all played. My cousin and uncles had the big farms and they made sure we all had ponds.”
She missed seeing the team last season when they were stuck in the Chilliwack pod during the pandemic, playing with no fans in the building.
“The boys could tell that, its no fun going into a rink and there’s no noise,” she said. “You’ve got to have the noise. We all cheer about the same way, one gets started at that end and all of sudden it’s around to this end. It just rotates in here. I love this building.”
Parsons also loves kids. She and her first husband Del Allen had three daughters, who now have children of their own, who
play hockey. She fostered several more kids and for four years was a billet mom for the team. She can blame her parental duties as the reason she missed most of those 15 games.
“A broken leg and sick kids,” she said.
Dianne Zapotichny, who sits next to Ginny at the games, suggested the Spruce Kings should reward her 50 years of support for the team with a lifetime pass.
“The nicest part about the team is it’s community-owned, and they make sure we’re involved,” said Parsons.
“They speak to if you see them on the street. (Kings general manager) Mike Hawes always talks to me, he knows my grandkids. The assistant coach Jason (Garneau), I knew his dad for years. I knew him when he was a little tyke.
“They’re making a game of it and they don’t have to go and get all these big sponsors. We’ve got a beautiful game and we have no millionaires sponsoring us, and we’re all sticking together.”
She and her husband already had one daughter when they moved to Prince George in 1971.
He took a job working for Standard Bus and she worked as a custodian and teaching assistant with the school district.
They came up thinking they would be
“I scored two goals from the crease, more than some of these kids. I didn’t play (in the Cougars’ 2-1 win over the Victoria Royals Saturday night), so I have a lot of energy right now.”
Cougars defenceman Hudson Thornton wasn’tplayinginthe hour-longball hockey game and was asked for his unbiased opinion as a casual observer.
“I’m just the support guy but I think Laing is getting a hard time, he’s put a lot of effort into the net,” said Thornton. “I think Armstrong’s going a little too hard out there and he’s just trying to score. He’s taking it way too seriously. He didn’t score last night (against the Royals), maybe he’s trying to get some confidence.”
Ryan Paziuk and his wife brought their three young kids to the festival and fouryear-old Kelsey needed a bit of dad’s assistance to show her how to shoot a hockey puck for the first time.
Her two-year-old sister McKenna was an interested spectator, while her sevenweek-old brother Emmett, resting in the stroller, will just have to wait until Hometown Hockey makes its return to Prince George.
“It’s a great experience for the kids to come out here and enjoy such a wonderful event, especially since the pandemic has happened,” said Ryan Paziuk.
“Everybody has wanted to go out and socialize and what better thing than hockey, Canada’s national sport, to get people out. I’m just glad to see the great turnout from the community here to support these great events.”
here for a year, and that was 51 years ago. They lived in Salmon Valley for 20 years and made the 25-minute trip into town whenever there was a game on.
“It’s not far,” Parsons said.
For 42 years, Parsons has had the same seat in the building formerly known as the Prince George Coliseum.
“I like it because I can see the players when they come out (from the dressing room) and when they play down at this end I can see them more often,” she said.
A few years ago, the B.C. Hockey League outlawed fighting and players who drop the gloves are ejected and handed a game misconduct.
Parsons lived through years of seeing bench-clearing line brawls and doesn’t miss that. She much prefers that players stick to hockey.
“The fighting is gone, which is nice, because when we were growing up we never did that,” she said.
“All we had was Sears and Eaton’s catalogues with binder twine (for shin pads). We had no protection on the mouth or anything else.”
Because of the past two pandemic years which cancelled the BCHL playoffs, the Spruce Kings are three-time defending league champions this year.
The Spruce Kings will take on the Penticton Vees in the semi-finals, after finishing off the Cranbrook Bucks 3-2 in overtime in Game 6 in their opening playoff round on Saturday.
Parsons has fond memories of that magical run in the spring of 2019, when the Kings rolled through the BCHL playoffs with 16-1 record, then won the Doyle Cup regional title and came within a couple goals of claiming the national junior A championship in Brooks, Alta.
“I could feel the atmosphere when I walked in,” she said.
“They were flying high at that time, and when you walked over top of the change room, you could hear them. So you know they’re going to talk back and forth (on the ice). As long as they communicate, they’re good.
“They don’t have to be six-foot-six. Look at little Cousins (Kings captain Kolton). They look at him and, ha ha, well try tangling with him. They get mad because he goes in under their arms.”
Over those 50 seasons, many Spruce Kings players have stayed in the city where they found permanent jobs and set up businesses, making the city a better place to live.
“I love to see that,” she said.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Four-year-old Tyson Heinzelman checks out the radar gun to find out how hard his shot was at the Rogers Hometown Hockey festival Sunday at CN Centre parking lot.
CITIZEN
Former Prince George Cougar Nick Drazenovic is proposing to move a liquor store from the Hart to the 1933 Queensway. The proposal has drawn opposition from residents of the area.
Controversial liquor store plan get council nod
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
City council voted unanimously to support the proposed relocation of a liquor store from the Hart to 1933 Queensway on Monday night
The controversial proposal generated opposition from area residents, who raised concerns about the safety of their neighbourhood. Forty-eight residents of the neighbourhood wrote submissions opposing the proposal, 288 people signed an online petition against the proposal as of Monday, and others raised their concerns in person at the public hearing on Monday night. Liquor store owner/operator Nick Drazenovic – a former Prince George Cougar, AHL and NHL player –rallied 451 submissions in support for his proposed business.
Coun. Cori Ramsay, who lives across the street from the proposed location, said it comes down to a land use issue.
“Therearesocialissuesintheneighbourhood, and those concerns are completely valid,” Ramsay said. “I do take comments and correspondence seriously. I’m one of you, facing these issues. I see this location from my patio facing Queensway.”
However, she said, she couldn’t vote against the proposal in good conscience. It would be unfair to hold the proponent to a higher standard than would be expected in other areas of the city, she said.
Coun. Terri McConnachie said she is also a Millar Addition resident, and she understands the fear and feeling of helplessness expressed by residents about the crime in their neighbourhood. Her mother-in-law, who lived across the street from her, was robbed in her home while she
slept, McConnachie added.
“I want to acknowledge the Millar Addition has been experiencing its social issues. I also understand the crime. I understand the desire to take back control,” she said. “(But) I do sincerely believe it will be a positive addition to fill a vacant building on a main artery.”
Drazenovic said he purchased the Cold Beer and Liquor Store, located at 6475 Hart Hwy., and is looking to move the existing operation to 1933 Queensway.
One of the conditions of the purchase is that he moves the store out of the Hart to avoid competition with the former owner’s other businesses, he said.
In order to facilitate the move, Drazenovic applied to rezone the former florist shop from C6: Highway Commercial to C4l: Local Commercial.
Council approved the first three readings of the rezoning bylaw on Monday night, and supported the approval of his Liquor Licence Application for the site, which will be forwarded to the B.C. Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for final approval. A fourth reading of the rezoning bylaw will come back to city council for a second vote.
Drazenovic made a presentation to city council, saying he intended to work with the neighbours and area businesses to manage the safety issues as they arise.
“I have listened to the neighbours concerns really carefully,” he said. “I currently own another liquor retail store in Quesnel. The store will be a high-end establishment. Prince George means the world to me, and I plan to make the store a place the neighbourhood can be proud of.”
Drazenovic’s agent, local consultant David McWalter, said Drazenovic plans
to upgrade the lighting, security cameras, façade, landscaping and other aspects of the building. The parking lot for the building is fully-fenced and most customers would access the store by car from the fenced lot, he added.
“There is long-standing concerns about safety in the nieghbourhood,” Coun. Murry Krause said. “The proponent has offered to work with the neighbours – take him up on that.”
Coun. Brian Skakun said he was brought to tears by the heartfelt concerns raised by many of the residents.
“For me this is a tough, tough decision. (The social issues) have devastated this neigbourhood. (But) I see a business person and his family who want to invest there,” Skakun said. “Everything in me says don’t support it, because of what’s happening. But I can’t do that. Reluctantly, I will support it.”
‘WE ARE UNDER SIEGE’
Residents of the Millar Addition voiced their concerns about safety to city council through letters, emails and in person.
Diane Nakamura, a retired social worker and long-time resident of the area, said the issues of crime in the area have gotten progressively worse over the past few years.
“It’s gotten to the point, my neighbours and I are feeling we are under siege,” Nakamura said. “It is a horrible feeling, when you feel you have no control over your own safety. We see criminal activity happening daily on our (security) cameras.”
Nakamura spent decades working with the homeless and vulnerable populations, and said increasing access to alcohol will have a negative impact for the area.
She said she just got back from a vacation, and it’s gotten to the point where she didn’t want to come home because the spring brings increased levels of crime in the area.
Jordana Sarson said she bought her first home in the area three-and-a-half years ago. She said she ends up calling police and bylaw services multiple times a week, with little response.
“I’ve been broken in to. My car was ransacked last week. I have cameras, it doesn’t stop anybody,” Sarson said. “They are stealing boards off my fence to build fires in the alley.”
A liquor store is just the wrong kind of business for the area, she said.
Lindsay Hughes said the neighbours she has spoken to are concerned a liquor store will only add to the problems they are already facing.
Once the staff at the store go home, it will be area residents who are left to deal with the problems the store creates, she said.
“I don’t doubt they can make a good business, but it is the wrong kind of business. After 10 p.m., 11 p.m. who is watching? I am. I am the one who calls the police,” Hughes said. “I don’t feel safe in my own backyard, because people are climbing over fences.”
Hughes said that a liquor store she could walk to might be a nice amenity, but not in that neighbourhood.
“Is the convenience of liquor more important than the safety of the neighbourhood?”
Lost birth certificate found at Moccasin Flats
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
A group of volunteers came together this weekend to clean up debris at Moccasin Flats, recovering a lost birth certificate in the process.
Advocacy group, Together We Stand as well as Uniting Northern Drug-Users Undoing Stigma (UNDU) organized the Saturday community clean up-day alongside residents of the encampment.
Debris has littered Moccasin Flats since last November when the City of Prince George demolished part of the downtown encampment, which for many residents resulted in the loss of personal items like identification, photographs, and in one instance the ashes of loved ones.
After a second B.C. Supreme Court ruling, which allowed the encampment on Lower Patrica Boulevard to remain, the City of Prince George apologized for its actions after it was found to have inflicted serious harm on vulnerable people.
UNDU, which is an Indigenous-led peerrun organization, is now hoping to bring services and supports to people living in Moccasin Flats.
“We did our first clean-up day on Saturday, and prior to this we had a couple of meetings, and at our meetings we had talked about the cleanup and how [the residents] would like to see things happen,” explained Katheryn Cadieux, executive director and founder of UNDU.
“One of them mentioned that they wanted to try and salvage some stuff that was still good like clothes or other things,
and maybe have a garage sale and UNDU offered to get them all cleaned and washed up to help organize that.”
Throughout the clean-up, volunteers started separating salvageable items from the debris and found new clothing, gift cards, as well as many trinkets that probably have sentimental or monetary value.
Cadieux said the birth certificate they recovered was buried quite deeply under everything that was demolished.
“One of the peers that works with us,
he’s actually a director, noticed there was a birth certificate so we pulled it out and sure enough there was a birth certificate, so we cleaned it up and put that aside along with some other stuff that looked important to people.”
Cadieux explained the birth certificate will be returned to its owner, and everything else they found of value will be put aside until it can be identified.
“We hold regular drug user meetings and we’re going to put it out there that
some stuff was found and put aside and then if they identify it, we’re going to give it back to them.”
Cadieux said they also separated metal and wood and are hoping to get a bin for scrap metal salvage and any money generated from that would be reinvested in funding the cleanup effort and providing services.
“We are hoping to bring a sense of community down there,” said Cadieux. “It’s not a garbage dump. This is their home.”
Prince George seeing influx of urban residents
with a population under 100,000) is that it is old and needs major repairs.
As more and more people in B.C. leave big cities for smaller towns, affordability and availability of housing in the province’s smaller communities is becoming strained.
Prince George is also facing these challenges, but according to researchers, it’s an example of a community that’s actively diversifying its housing stock in the face of changing demographics.
A new report from researchers at the Community Development Institute (CD) at UNBC and the Housing Research Collaborative (HRC) at UBC highlights the impacts of people migrating out of big cities to smaller towns.
Marleen Morris, co-director of CDI said they started seeing the trend of metro migration to smaller communities around the 2011 census and it has been accelerating ever since.
She noted they’ve also seen anecdotal evidence of a further increase related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Morris said one of the issues is facing communitiesexperiencinganinfluxofnew residents is that most of the housing stock in non-metropolitan B.C. (any community
Furthermore, most homes in smaller communities are single-detached houses on large lots which reduces housing options and costs more to maintain.
“Oneoftheotherchallengesisthatwhen you look at our population our current housing stock is not what people want or need today,” said Morris, explaining that most of the current housing stock in small communities was built in the 1960s and 70s and intended for much larger families than we have today.
“Fast-forward to today and what you have is a lot more two-person households or households are much smaller,” said Morris. “A lot of our baby boomers are now retirement age, and there are also young people who are delaying having a family or who are having much smaller families.”
Thisequalsamismatchbetweensmaller households and a housing stock of older and larger homes. Morris noted this mismatch impacts smaller communities’ ability to attract and sustain new residents.
Morris said one of the things that inspired this new phase of research was hearing from people who turned jobs down in smaller communities because
they could not find appropriate housing.
“That doesn’t bode well for the economic future of the community so that those housing challenges are very real and they’re out there,” said Morris.
In terms of Prince George, Morris said the city has seen a huge increase in the diversity of its housing stock since the CDI completed a housing study for the city in 2014.
“I have seen way more small-lot housing, row townhouses, and apartment condominiums being built,” said Morris.
“Now we’re seeing a surge in rental, accommodation being built, and there has been a dramatic change since we did that report and Prince George is actually doing very well and one of the leading examples in terms of diversifying its housing stock over time.”
However, Morris noted there is always more that can be done, and cities should constantly be examining housing needs and how existing housing stock is meeting those needs.
Forexample,arecentcityhousingneeds assessment conducted by Urban Matters in 2021 projected that the city would need more than 10,000 units of housing of all types over the next decade.
“Hopefully we will never be able to sit
back and say ‘well that’s done’ because that would mean the city wasn’t growing anymore,” added Morris. “It can be a challenge but it’s a wonderful challenge to have.”
Morris said this kind of research can be used by local and regional governments, developers and real estate agents to help them make informed decisions about what kind of housing is needed in a given community.
“Often when people are making plans and governments are developing policies and programs they are not necessarily aware or tuned in to what the housing challenges are in our smaller non-metropolitan communities,” said Morris.
The research found that Tenant financial vulnerability in non-metropolitan B.C. communities is almost as high as in Vancouver.
That’s because in non-metropolitan B.C., about 40 per cent of tenants are vulnerable, which means they pay more than 30 percent of their income on rent.
“We have significant housing issues in non-metropolitan B.C.,” said Morris, adding that in smaller communities sometimes there just isn’t a lot of choice in the market and people are forced to take what they can get.
Volunteers with the birth certificate they recovered during the community cleanup at Moccasin Flats on April 6.
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Healthy North
COVID-19 Update
As British Columbians continue to do their part, we can safely continue with lifting COVID-19 restrictions. As of April 8:
·BCVaccine Card requirements are no longer in effect. Individual businesses and organizations can choose to continue requiring the BC Vaccine Card on their premises.
·Workplaces can transition from COVID-19 Safety Plans to communicable disease plans.
·Vaccination requirements on post-secondarystudents living in residence are lifted.
Vaccines remain the best protection against seriousillness and hospitalization from COVID-19: get vaccinated and get boosted when it’syour turn.
Learnmore: gov.bc.ca/Covid19Restrictions
Spring boostersfor seniors
Seniors70+ and Indigenous people 55+ will be able to maintain their protection from COVID-19 with aspring booster dose –for most seniorsthat’safourth dose. Invitationstoschedule appointments will be sent to all eligible individuals.
Learnmore: gov.bc.ca/covid19vaccines
Find apharmacy or Immunization Centre near you: northernhealth.ca/healthtopics/covid-19-immunization-clinics
Staying healthy: Usingyour COVID-19toolkit
NorthernHealth is working hardtokeep Northernershealthyand safe.AsCOVID-19 restrictions are lifted, you maywonder what tools you still have to protect yourself. Over the past fewyears, we’velearned whathelps keep us healthy. These tools can help us to find balance and staysafe as restrictions are eased.
In this shortanimated video, we reviewthe COVID-19 tools we have in our toolkits to help us stayhealthyand safe:
Tool #1 –Handwashing
Washing your hands often helpsstop the spread of germs likeCOVID-19. Using soap and hot water for at least20 secondsis best. If soap and water aren’t available,use hand sanitizer instead.
Tool #2 –Masks
Masks are one of tools we use to help stopthe spread. Even though the maskmandate has lifted,you’re still encouraged to use masks in crowds, when physical distancing is not possible, or if it makesyou feel more comfortable.
Tool #3 –Physical Distancing
Physical distancing meanslimiting close contact with other people.Try to keep at least two metres away
It’simportant to remember thateven if you feel comfortable, others maynot be –respectother people’scomfortlevels.
Tool #4 –Monitor symptoms and test
Self-monitoring is whenyou checkyourself or loved onesfor symptomsofCOVID-19. If you develop symptoms, be sureto test for COVID-19.
Free rapid tests are available for anyone 18 years and older.For alist of participating pharmacies in your area visit the BC Pharmacies website: bcpharmacy.ca/rapidtests/list
Tool #5 –Stayhome when sick
If you aren’t feeling well, even if you think it’s justacold, stayhome. If you do go out, remember to wash your hands and wear amask.
Tool #6 –Vaccines
TheCOVID-19 vaccineis savinglives.The more people who are immunized, the harder it is for COVID-19 to spread. Vaccines help to reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalization. Book yourvaccination appointment today: northernhealth.ca/healthtopics/covid-19-immunization-clinics
To see each of the COVID safety tools we have at ourdisposal in action, watch the full video: youtu.be/WFOqzyiGbvo
And remember,we’re all in this together –thanks for doingyour part!
HOROSCOPES &PUZZLES
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CL ASSIF IEDS
Lorne M McDonald
The family of Lorne McDonald, would like to invite his family and friends to celebrate his life at 1:00 pm on April 23, 2022 at the PG Golf and Curling Club, for an informal gathering with refreshments.
Vi passed away quietly on April 7, 2022 at Parkside Care Home at the age of 100. Vi leaves to mourn her daughter Darlene (Ken Goss), son Clint, sister Audriene (William) Kriger, brother Garry (Mildred) Lybeck and numerous other relatives and friends.
Vi was born Oct. 4, 1921 in Ketchen, Saskatchewan the 3rd child in a family of 7. She married Frank Meyers in 1944. They farmed in the Preeceville area prior to moving to Prince George in 1957.
Vi will be remembered for her big heart, kindness and generosity to family and friends. The family would like to thank Dr. St. Rose for his kindness and understanding, and the staff at Parkside Care Home whose care and compassion are unsurpassed.
A service was held at Assman’s Funeral Home on April 13th, 2022 with special thanks to Susan Scott for officiating.
Mom will be sadly missed, but we know she is now happily reunited with Dad.
Barbara Eleanor Rayment
Barbara’s words of wisdom in life and gardening have been planted across British Columbia both literally and figuratively. Barbara’s Birch Creek Nursery, located in the Beaverly area west of Prince George, was a beautiful example of her life’s passion. It was her sanctuary, experimentation lab, and the source of daily inspiration to Barbara. Birch Creek Nursery, along with her beloved dogs, became the focal point of her life.
She wrote several books and publications on gardening in challenging climates and soil types. Her passion and knowledge spread to gardeners across the globe. Many needed inspiration from her documented experience on what is possible.
If ever you are in Prince George, British Columbia on an early summer’s day, and encounter the scent of lilacs, it is quite possible that Barbara played a role in their planting. The varieties of lilacs were a subject that Barbara knew intimately. She also had a hand in planting many trees, supposedly unable to survive this harsh climate. Yet they did.
Barbara had a strong colourful personality and numerous talents. The many people who will miss her can be comforted each spring, by the amazing blooms she created for all. Every year, when the long Northern British Columbia winters have ended, her plants and flowers will continue to appear. Barbara’s passion for planting and growing beautiful gardens is her living legacy to this community.
Memorial Services
Obituaries
Obituaries
Obituaries
Celebration of Life
Winnie Viola (Vi) Meyers 1921-2022
Byron Kim Thrift
July 31, 1954March 30, 2022
On this day we lost a great person to ALS and heaven gained a new voice in its choir. Kim was a man of many talents, accomplishments and adventures during his walk on earth.
He was predeceased by parents Phylis/George Thrift, sister Neila (Robert) Mcdonald.
Survived by his loving wife Maryanne, daughters Shawna (Jimmy) Passmore, Miranda Thrift, Ashley (Brad) Feniuk and son Nathan (Andrea) Thrift. Awesome grandchildren: Kaiden, Carsen, Cameron, Brinley, Byron, Lola, Conner and Ethan. Brothers: Ken (Pat) Thrift, Myles (Sonya) Thrift, Sisters: Marilynn (Bob) Buzzard, Lynne (Mike) Lukow. Many nieces/nephews/ great friends.
The family would like to thank the doctors & nurses that helped on the ALS journey. If you wish to help find a cure for ALS please consider making a donation to the ALS society of BC.
Austin Kenneth Fiddler
1998-2022
With deep anguish and sorrow, we announce the sudden passing of our much loved Austin on March 22, 2022. Austin was born on March 3, 1998. Austin was an easygoing young man with a passion for computers, travel and experimenting with making his own mead and cider. Austin had aspirations of becoming a brewmaster.
Austin’s memory will forever be cherished by his parents Ken & Ruth, Nanny Marilyn, Poppa Lloyd as well as many friends, cousins, extended family members and his beloved dog, Gordon. Austin is predeceased by his sister Chelsey, Grandparents Art & Donna Ludwig and Kenneth Fiddler. Austin’s memory will live on forever in our hearts and memories. We will never forget the impact he made on our lives.
Austin’s celebration of life will be on Saturday April 16, 2022 at 1pm at the First Baptist Church on 5th Ave. Luncheon to follow at the church.
MURCHIE, RICHARD ALLAN
Sept 5, 1967 - Jan 30, 2022
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Richard (Richie) Allan Murchie at the age of 54. Richie is survived by his loving wife Mona, mother Eileen, sons Matt (Kristin) and Chris, grandsons Ben and Parker, sister Lisa (Mark) nieces Janessa (London and Layton) and Tianna, stepchildren Brett (Elijah), Brady (Thersa) and Treslyn.
Richie worked for Admiral Roofing for 30 years and was a licenced bailiff in BC for over 25 years.
Richie and Mona developed a love of travelling and especially enjoyed travelling to Mexico.
Richie loved animals and will be greatly missed by his fur babies, McGruff, Marly & Bella Richie will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
A funeral was previously held Feb 11, 2022.
SMT.BAKHSHISH KAUR PARMAR (“Biji”)
July 26, 1926 - April 2, 2022
It is with heavy hearts that we write that the matriarch of our family, Bakhshish Kaur Parmar, lovingly known as Biji, passed away peacefully at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. She was aged 95. Biji was born in Rasiana Lyallpur, India in 1926 to Late Maan Singh & Late Athar Kaur Saroya. She is predeceased by her 7 siblings. Biji married School Principal, Shiv Kumar Parmar (deceased 1987) son of Thakur Hukamchand & Ohan Kaur Parmar of Nadalon, District Hoshiarpur, Punjab, India. Together they had five children: Son Om Kumar Parmar (Rajinder) Grandson Gaurav Parmar (Pam) and Great-grandson Jaiden Parmar. Granddaughter Dr. Naaz Parmar Price (Kevin) and Greatgranddaughter Indira Price; Son Late Sham Kumar Parmar (Surjit) Grandson Supreet (Gurdeep) and Great-grandsons Samar & Yuvraj Parmar. Granddaughter Shanu Minhas (lnder) Great-granddaughters Evleen & Harleen Minhas; Daughter Late Manjit Kumari Parmar (Mohan) Grandson Karan Parmar (Jasmeet) Great-grandson Vir Parmar Great-granddaughter Kirat Parmar Grandson Late Sandeep Parmar; Son Ramesh Kumar Parmar (Kuldeep) Granddaughter Ramandeep Parmar (Aman) Great-granddaughter Aneet Parmar Great– grandsons Aikam & Parm Parmar Grandson Harsh Parmar (Reet); Son Rajinder Kumar Parmar (Kalash) Grandson Ricky Parmar (Reesha) and Granddaughter Shilpa Parmar. Biji was possessed with a strong fortitude and survived the uprooting of her home during the Indian Partition of 1947.
Biji immigrated to Canada in July 1993 to live with her youngest son, Rajinder Kumar Parmar and his family in Prince George, BC. Biji was particularly instrumental in raising her two youngest grandchildren Ricky and Shilpa. She would do so with strict discipline always from a place of Love. Her teachings will not be forgotten.
Biji will be remembered fondly for her enjoyment of daily prayers, listening to Rhim Jim, and Indian dramas, along with WWF Wrestling. She was an excellent cook, and fond of Indian Tea and Sweets. Biji & Shiv had a close and long standing relationship with the Late Shakti Sharma and family. Special thanks to the PCMU doctors, nurses, and support staff.
“Death is not extinguishing the light, it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come” (Rabindranath Tagore).
As you share the stories and the memories of how they lived their lives and how very much they meant, may you find comfort...
REMEMBRANCES
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6 tips for renovating your foyer
Does your foyer need a little TLC? If so, here are six tips for a successful update project.
1. CONSIDER THE DOOR
If your front door is in good condition, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders. If you need to replace your door, choose one that’s sturdy, secure and has sufficient insulation.
2. ADD WINDOWS
If you want your foyer to feel bright and inviting, install windows on either side of the door or choose a model with built-in windows
3. SPRUCE UP YOUR FLOORING
The floor in your foyer takes
a beating and must withstand water, dirt and salt. Consequently, choose durable, easy-to-clean materials like ceramic, stone, concrete or vinyl
4. IMPROVE LIGHTING
Make sure your entryway is well-lit, both inside and outside. Whether tying your shoelaces or getting your key into the lock, having good lighting can make your everyday life easier.
5. MAKE STORAGE A PRIORITY
Foyers tend to get cluttered Therefore, efficiency is key Make space to store clothes and accessories for summer and winter Furthermore,
consider installing a custom-made cabinet to provide easy access and make the most of the space.
6. PAY ATTENTION TO DECOR
Don’t overload your foyer. Instead, focus on a few
well-selecteddecorative touches. Choose light shades to make the space feel open and airy
Visit the home improvement stores in your area to get everything you need to update your foyer.
FREE ESTIMATES
4 reasons to add a level to your home
Does your home feel cramped? Whether you’re growing your family or developing your property, you may want to consider adding an extra floor to your home You can create a second story or build out your basement. Here are four advantages of adding a level to your home.
1. YOU CAN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE YOUR LIVING SPACE
Adding a second story creates several new rooms You can use them as you wish to meet all your space requirements
2. YOU DON’T LOSE OUTDOOR SPACE
You can avoid expanding the footprint of your home For instance, you can keep your garden and continue enjoying all your outdoor activities
3. YOU DON’T HAVE TO MOVE
You don’t have to give up your dream location. Moreover, you can save yourself the cost and inconvenience of buying and selling properties.
4. YOU INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR PROPERTY
Adding a floor allows you to renew and transform the appearance of your home and upgrade the siding to keep the exterior looking fresh. For added value, make sure your home matches the style of other homes in the area.
Are you ready to take on this large expansion project? Before you do anything, contact your municipality to ensure your project complies with applicable bylaws
