The Citizen asked patrons of the two Farmers’ Markets on Third Avenue in downtown Prince George Saturday morning if they felt safe coming into the core of the city with so many issues around social problems and public safety.
Harriett and Rusty Watson
“We come down every Friday night to the Legion for the meat draw and it’s not as comfortable outside as it used to be,” Rusty said. “The panhandlers seem a little more aggressive. We were just at Wendy’s... and there was a man trying the door handles on the classic cars.”
“During the day I’ll come downtown with Rusty,” Harriett said. “I will come
with a friend or my husband and I would prefer to have my husband with me.”
Jru Hjelmeland, with son Isaac, three years old
“We’re fine coming downtown during the day in the more populated areas and even considering that we’re from Vancouver, like I grew up in East Van, and I’ve got two other little guys at home, I don’t feel comfortable bringing them out at night and I won’t go past a certain street with them not in the car,” Hjelmeland said. “But at the same time if we have extra food sometimes we will go in the car and we’ve brought it to St. Vincent to sort of let them know that those people on the street are not to be made fun of or be scared of.”
COSTUME FUN Northern Fancon hosted their Cosplay Contest on Saturday evening on the main stage at CN Centre.
Cockroach problem ‘has exploded,’ pest expert says
You might have heard the make-yourskin-crawl rumours of a local restaurant infested with cockroaches.
What? There’s no cockroaches here, are there? Absolutely yes, there are cockroaches in Prince George. They are a carry-in pest so that means they come in from other parts of the world on people’s clothes, in their
luggage, or in cargo shipped here.
“Most pests from Timbuktu that get imported to Canada – let’s say in a container on a ship – they die off because it’s not the right humidity, they don’t have the right food source, so once you take them out of their natural habitat they have a low survival rate,” Mike Jaenicke of Central Interior Pest Control said, a man who has been in the pest control business for 35 years.
See ‘SEE THEM SCURRY AWAY,’ page 4
PUBLIC HEARINGS /CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS
WHAT:
City Council consideration of first and second reading of:
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9285, 2022”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9303, 2022”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9305, 2022”
Public hearings for City Council consideration of thirdreadings of:
•Proposed “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU-37-77, Bylaw No. 3074, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9300, 2022”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 53-77, Bylaw No. 3109, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9306, 2022”
•Proposed “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 8-77, Bylaw No. 2999, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9309, 2022”
WHEN:
Monday,May 30, 2022
WHERE:
Council Chambers of City Hall, 2nd Floor,1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC
PROPOSALS:
1. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9285, 2022”
Applicant: Faisal Qureshi for Rock Pacific Investments Inc., Inc. No. BC1243613
Subject Property: 2093 Oak Street
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9285, 2022 proposes to rezone the subject property from RT1: Two-Unit Residential to RT2: Two-Unit Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9285, 2022.
The purpose of this application is to facilitate the development of atwo-unit house (duplex) on the subject property,orother uses, pursuant to the RT2: Two-Unit Residential zoning designation.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the parcels legally described as Lots 37 and 38, Block 3, District Lot 932, Cariboo District, Plan 796, as shown outlined on Location Map #1 below
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.
Location Map #1 2093 Oak Street
2. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9303, 2022”
Applicant: May Woodburnfor Colin and Matthew Holdings Ltd., Inc. No. BC0780710
Subject Property: 7550 Hart Highway
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9303, 2022 proposes to rezone the subject property from C4: Local Commercial to C4c: Local Commercial, to allow “retail, cannabis” as ause on the subject property,asshown on
Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9303, 2022.
The subject property was approved for aTemporary Use Permit in 2020 to permit “retail, cannabis” use on the subject property for up to three (3) years and the applicant further received City Council support for acannabis retail license issued by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. Approval of the proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 9303, 2022 would permit a “Retail, Cannabis” use, or other uses pursuant to the C4c: Local Commercial zoning designation, on the site indefinitely
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Lot A, District Lot 2433, Cariboo District, Plan 14477, Except Plan 29887, as shown outlined on Location Map #2 below
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.
Location Map #2
7550 Hart Highway
3. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9305, 2022”
Applicant: Cale Rusnell for 7Peaks Enterprises Ltd., Inc. No. BC1344220
Subject Property: 100 Tabor Boulevard
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9305, 2022 proposes to rezone the subject property from C4l: Local Commercial to C4lc: Local Commercial, to allow “retail, cannabis” as ause on the subject property,asshown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9305, 2022.
The subject property was approved for aTemporary Use Permit in 2019 to permit “retail, cannabis” use on the subject property for three (3) years and further received City Council support for acannabis retail license issued by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. Approval of the proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 9305, 2022 would permit the use “Retail, Cannabis”, or other uses pursuant to the C4lc: Local Commercial zoning designation, on the site indefinitely
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Lot A, District Lot 1427, Cariboo District, Plan 20420, as shown outlined on Location Map #3 below
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.
Location Map #3 100 Tabor Boulevard
NORDIC DR
PUBLIC HEARINGS /CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS
4. “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU-37-77, Bylaw No. 3074, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9300, 2022”
Applicant: L&M Engineering Ltd. for Darcy Porsnuk and Denise Dykes
Subject Property: 2016 BlackburnRoad North
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9300, 2022 proposes to discharge the Land Use Contract registered on title of the subject property under the Land Title and Survey Authority Registration No. M39581, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9300, 2022.
The Land Use Contract is specific to the subject property and restricts land use, setbacks, and subdivision regulations. The Land Use Contract discharge thereby allows the subject property to be regulated under the City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw and City of Prince George Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw and would facilitate asubdivision application to divide the subject property into three (3) lots or facilitate other uses, pursuant to the current RS2m: Single Residential zoning designation.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Lot 4, District Lot 633, Cariboo District, Plan 9298, as shown outlined on Location Map #4 below
Map #4
5. “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 53-77, Bylaw No. 3109, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9306, 2022”
Applicant: L&M Engineering Ltd. for B.E.K. Leasing Ltd., Inc. No. 122357
Subject Property: 1215 BlackburnRoad North
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9306, 2022 proposes to discharge the Land Use Contract registered on title of the subject property under the Land Title and Survey Authority Registration No. N29251, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9306, 2022.
The Land Use Contract restricts land use, development regulations, infrastructure, and future subdivision of the subject area. The Land Use Contract is registered on the legal title of six (6) separate parcels. The applicant has applied to discharge the Land Use Contract from two (2) parcels thereby allowing the subject property to be regulated under the “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the parcels legally described as Lot 9, District Lot 632, Cariboo District, Plan 1243, Except Plans 24288 and PGP37969 and Lot 10, District Lot 632, Cariboo District, Plan 1243, Except Plan 24288, as shown outlined on Location Map #5 below
Location Map #5 1215 BlackburnRoad North
6. “City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 8-77, Bylaw No. 2999, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No 9309, 2022”
Applicant: Camille Cote
Subject Property: 7468 Giscome Road
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Bylaw No. 9309, 2022 proposes to discharge the Land Use Contract registered on title of the subject property under the Land Title and Survey Authority Registration No. M11116, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9309, 2022.
The Land Use Contract restricts land use, development regulations and futuresubdivision of the subject property.The purpose of this application is discharge the Land Use Contract thereby allowing the subject property to be regulated under the “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”, with current zoning as RS1m: Suburban Residential.
The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Lot B, District Lot 635, Cariboo District, Plan 23559, as shown outlined on Location Map #6 below
Location Map #6 7468 Giscome Road
HOW CAN IPARTICIPATEAND PROVIDE COMMENT?
Members of the public who believe their interest in property is affected by the proposed bylaws areinvited to provide comments to Council by the methods noted below
Members of the public wishing to provide comments to Council on the following Bylaws may only do so by submitting comments in writing:
•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9285, 2022”,
•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9303, 2022”, and
•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9305, 2022”.
Members of the public wishing to provide comments to Council on the following Bylaws may do so by submitting comments in writing, via telephone, or in person during the Public Hearing:
•“City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU-37-77, Bylaw No. 3074, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9300, 2022”,
•“City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 53-77, Bylaw No. 3109, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9306, 2022”, and
•“City of Prince George Authorization Issuance Land Use Contract No. LU 8-77, Bylaw No. 2999, 1977, Discharge Bylaw No. 9309, 2022”
GISCOME
PUBLIC HEARINGS / CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS
Written comments received by the Corporate Officer before 5:00 p.m., Tuesday,May 24, 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,May 30, 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 on the bottom of this Notice.
Written comments will form part of the Council agenda, become public record, and areposted on the City’s website. By submitting awritten comment, you areconsenting to the disclosureofany personal information that you provide.
ATTEND BY TELEPHONE
To participate in the Public Hearing by telephone, members of the public should dial into the meeting at least 10 minutes beforethe start of the Public Hearing by calling 1-877-708-3350, Access Code: 1269574#.
ATTEND IN PERSON
Members of the public who wish to speak to Council in person can do so during the Public Hearing in Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 30, 2022.
City of Prince George open Council meetings arepublic and may be televised, streamed live by webcast, recorded, and archived on the City’swebsite for viewing by the public. By attending an open Council meeting or making asubmission at apublic hearing, you areconsenting to the disclosureofany personal information that you provide.
For moredetailed information on providing submissions to Council, please visit www.princegeorge.ca/publichearings.
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’sFIPPA Coordinator at (250)561-7600 or 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC, V2L 3V9.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Acopy of the proposed bylaws, applications, 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,May 18, 2022.These documents may also be reviewed at the Development Services office on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on May 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 30, 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.
‘See
them scurry away’
Continued from page 1
“Cockroaches have a high survival rate because they are very adaptable so they do quite well in Canada. Years ago I would spray for cockroaches once every two or three years. In the last four years it has exploded. It’s like a hockey stick graph and it’s phenomenal the amount of calls I’m getting for roaches.”
How do you know if you have a cockroach infestation?
“They are a nocturnal pest so when the numbers get larger that’s when you’ll see them,” Jaenicke said. “In the early stages you’re not going to see them. The only way you’ll see them is if you go into your kitchen in the middle of the night and turn on the light and see them scurry away.”
Bedbugs
Bedbugs started to become a thing in Prince George about a dozen years ago, Jaenicke said.
“Previous to that they weren’t really a common call up here in Prince George,” he added. “But about a dozen years ago I started to get a noticeable increase in calls for bedbugs.”
Wasps
Wasps are becoming an increasing
‘I’m
Tel. (250) 561-7600 •Fax (250) 612-5605 1100 Patricia Boulevard,PrinceGeorge,BC V2L 3V9 311@princegeorge.ca Visit princegeorge.cafor information about Cityservices and operations. You can even subscribe to receiveinformation directly to your inbox. Visitnews. princegeorge.ca/subscribe to select the categoriesthat matter to you.
hazard, too.
“We’re not getting the winter kill we used to,” Jaenicke said.
The way a wasp colony works is that as it develops and thrives there are a dozen or more queens are produced, he added.
“They are impregnated queens and they hibernate through the winter and then when they come out in the spring they build what I call golfball nests,” Jaenicke explained. “The queen builds that, lays the eggs and tends to the young until they are full-grown workers and then they abandon that nest and go off and build the one they will use for the season – the one that gets the size of a basketball or bigger.”
What used to happen was the cold during the winter months would kill most of the queens off but now that the winters are more mild there’s a problem and it’s been growing for about 15 years, Jaenicke added.
“About 15-16 years ago in one year I got more calls than I did in the previous 20,” Jaenicke said. “Some summers I’m getting 10 calls a day for wasps. And, of course, people always find them in the most inconvenient places. Wasps really like it underneath concrete stairs because they heat up in the sunshine, so
basically they’ve got a solar-heated nest.”
Ants
“Ants are the biggest pest problem we deal with in Prince George,” Jaenicke said.
The worst home-invading ant?
“The cornfield ants – everyone calls them the sugar ants, “ Jaenicke said. “That’s the most common to get in a home because all of their nesting in your yard is found under things. So you can’t fight something that you don’t know is there.”
There are three other species of ant that are common to the area, including odorous black house ant, the carpenter ant and the thatching ant.
“If you ever take a stroll through Moore’s Meadow you’ll see the thatching ants’ huge mound nests and they are very aggressive. They bite and it hurts when they bite – it’s halfway to a bee sting – and they are very common for people on greenbelts,” Jaenicke said.
And the most alarming thing he encountered in Prince George?
“I had to hunt for a tarantula once in an apartment building,” Jaenicke said.
“I caught it and I actually found someone to take it as a pet.”
a big guy so I’m OK’
Continued from page 1
Nicole Podmoroff
“I do feel safe,” Podmoroff said. “I’ve never been one to be scared – even at camp if we’re in the pitch black in the woods and my friends are terrified of walking without a flashlight I’m like ‘ah! I’m good’ and I just cruise along. But yeah, I do feel comfortable coming downtown. There’s lots of wonderful restaurants and store owners here that just make your day when you go in and
visit, even if you don’t buy anything they’re just happy to see you. It can be a little scary with the homeless people on the ground but I’ve never had a bad interaction with them. I’ve helped out at St. Vincent de Paul a couple of times and they just seem lonely and they’re just looking for someone to listen to them and it’s hard because we’re always just go, go, go and all they want is for someone to listen.”
Tanner Ward
“I feel safe for myself, not so much
for my girlfriend who works down at the end of Third right by the encampment so she quite often has people coming up to her when she’s leaving work at 11 o’clock at night,” Ward said. “So that’s very unsettling. I’m a big guy so I’m OK. People don’t approach me aggressively, they just ask for money so I’m not really worried about that. I’ve talked to a lot of homeless people before when I’ve brought meals down here a couple times and it’s never been an issue for me.”
For more stories that you won’t find in this week’s paper, go to pgcitizen.ca
City plans to turn sewage gas into cash
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The City of Prince George has been flushing a potential revenue stream down the toilet, city council heard last week.
The city’s Lansdowne Wastewater Treatment Plant currently produces an average of 3,000 cubic metres of biogas each day, city utilities manager William Wedel said. Of that, 1,800 cubic metres are used to run the plant and the remaining 1,200 are flared from the plant’s smokestack.
“A portion of the gas is used on site,” Wedel said. “The rest of it is literally going up in smoke.”
It’s likely all the gas from the wastewater plant would go through the process, he added, reducing emissions from the gas burned to operate the plant as well.
A renewable natural gas conditioning plant would allow the biogas to be piped into the city’s natural gas system, reducing emissions at the wastewater plant and reducing greenhouse gasses by displacing conventional natural gas, he said.
Fortis BC has expressed interest in buying the gas and even offered to build and
run the plant itself, Wedel said. However, under such a deal, Fortis wouldn’t pay the city for the gas.
If the city builds and operated the gas conditioning plant, Fortis was open to negotiating a five-to-10-year contract to purchase the gas, Wedel said.
The projected revenue for the city was estimated between $400,000 and $800,000 per year.
Renewable natural gas currently sells for $30-35 per gigajoule, compared to $4.50 per gigajoule currently for conventional natural gas.
The project is eligible for funding under the federal Clean BC Communities Fund, which would cover $9.4 million of the $12.9 million project – leaving the city to pay $3.5 million from the sewer capital reserve, Wedel said.
“Those are the numbers they (Fortis) have provided us,” Wedel said. “The
(city’s) consultant has also crunched the numbers, and that’s what the number is.”
The natural gas utility has committed to its 30 By 30 plan to reduce customer greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, Wedel added, and renewable natural gas is a big part of that plan.
Council voted unanimously to approve adding the project to the city’s capital plan and applying for the federal grant. The project would only go ahead if the city receives the grant, which isn’t expected to be announced until the summer of 2023.
If the city goes with a pre-packaged system, it could be installed and operational in under a year, Wedel said.
“We are just venting potential money out the stack, that smells bad,” Coun. Terri McConnachie said. “It’s not only good environmentally, it is good financially.”
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A renewable natural gas plant is planned for the Lansdowne Wastewater Treatment Plant.
City residents rally behind family fighting brain tumour
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Prince George is coming together to support a local family in need as one of their children battles a rare brain tumor.
In late January, one of the Souter children had an MRI due to recurring, debilitating headaches.
It turns out that the cause of the headaches was a mass in the child’s head and they were flown to Vancouver Children’s Hospital where the child had two brain surgeries, one for a biopsy and a second to help remove as much of the mass as safely possible.
Friend of the family Selinda Lye posted a GoFundMe to raise money for the family’s medical expenses, where she detailed some of the challenges they’ve been facing.
Lye explained the biopsy results confirmed a papillary tumor of the pineal gland, a tumor so rare that there are only about 30 cases documented in children worldwide.
She also noted the family does not want to share their child’s name to respect their privacy and confidentiality.
The Souter family was referred to a specialist for treatment in Seattle, where they were required to stay for two months, and Lye said this is significantly expensive as there are considerable costs for the family especially traveling from Prince George to the states.
“This is where we come in, as friends and family of the Souter family! If you can, please consider contributing to help alleviate some of the financial stresses they will face over the next few months and allow for their family to be able to visit each other and be together during some of the harder days,” writes Lye.
The GoFundMe has raised $15,000 of its $25,000 goal since mid-April. However, community support for this family does not stop there as friends are also organizing a fundraiser barn dance set to take place next month.
The dance will take place at Taba Creek, on Highway 16 west, on June 11
The W.A.C.Bennett Dam Visitor Centreisopeningsoon
Join us starting Saturday,May 21 when the Visitor Centreopensfor the season.We’re open sevendays aweek, 10 a.m.to5p.m.Come enjoy our interactiveexhibits, watchour short films, learn about the Indigenouscommunities in the area and take in an amazingviewof the W.A.C. Bennett Dam.
Take abus tour across the dam or an outdoor walking tour to learn about howB.C.ispowered by water! Visit bchydro.com/bennett formoreinformation, including details on ourtours and COVID-19 safety protocols.
and the event will include live country music, live auction, burgers and a shuttle bus. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and a cooler.
Tickets are $40 and all proceeds will go towards the family to cover medical expenses. Tickets can be purchased through souterfundraiser@gmail.com
Timber supply criticized
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
In an open letter to residents, Conifex, the United Steelworkers and the District of Mackenzie have accused the provincial government and B.C chief forester of unfairly singling out the Mackenzie area with forestry regulations that make the area uncompetitive.
The undated letter, published on Conifex’s website, says the“unsupported and unsupportable harvest requirement” in the Mackenzie timber supply area (TSA) “had a deep and profound impact on our community.”
“The forest sector in Mackenzie has been in a downward spiral for many years,” the letter says.
“Conifex, the District of Mackenzie, and the United Steelworkers, with support from local First Nations, are committed to a recovery plan. We need the senior bureaucrats at the Ministry to transition away from compounding the challenges we face in Mackenzie to providing solutions which enable us to survive the future. We also need to take steps to ensure that more of the sawlog fibre sourced in Mackenzie is processed locally, rather than delivered to mills starved for sawlogs in Prince George, Quesnel and Vanderhoof.”
Conifex operates a sawmill and bioenergy plant in Mackenzie, a town of
roughly 3,500 people located 180 kilometres north of Prince George, and has offices in Vancouver and Prince George.
According to the letter, in 2014 chief forester set the annual allowable cut (AAC) in the Mackenzie TSA at 4.5 million cubic meters of timber per year, based on the assumption that trees killed by the mountain pine beetle infestation would remain commercially usable for 15 years.
“The 15-year shelf-life assumption was based on what the Ministry refers to as ‘biophysical’ considerations. We were treated differently than our neighbouring TSA where the Ministry correctly used an assumption based on ‘economic’ considerations and acknowleged that ‘merchantable pine volume within an attacked stand deteriorates over time,’” the letter says.
“The Ministry has never provided justification for singling us out in Mackenzie, nor has it explained how doing so complied with provincial laws mandating the Chief Forester consider economic factors in harvest level determinations. Simple common sense indicates that the commercial value of a beetle- killed tree declines each passing year following mortality.”
The province knew then that after 10 years, 50 to 90 per cent of dead pine stand have decayed to a point where they are only useable for bioenergy, pulp or low-grade saw logs, the letter says.
The city is fundraising to help the Souter family as one of their children battles a rare brain tumour.
Slower wildfire season predicted
ARTHUR WILLIAMS/MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
Cooler and wetter than average conditions throughout the spring and early summer are expected to result in a less intense wildfire season in the Prince George region.
Fire weather index maps released by Natural Resources Canada show a below average fire risk in the region in May and June, rising to average in some parts of the region in July. The models predict a hot, dry August with above-average fire risk, before returning to average risk levels in September.
“The northern area (of B.C.) probably will stay a bit cooler and wetter,” Natural Resources Canada fire research analyst Richard Carr said. “From this point of view, we don’t expect a huge amount
of (fire) activity in that region. Cooler temperatures will limit fire activity in the northern half of the province.
The weather is currently in the second year of a La Nina cycle, Carr said, which is caused by cooler than normal waters in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean. La Nina weather patterns are linked to cooler temperatures and increased rain from B.C. to Quebec, according to Environment Canada.
Natural Resources Canada compares multiple computer weather models, which don’t all agree, Carr said. But most of the models show hotter, drier conditions starting in July – especially in the southern parts of the country, he said.
“(And) everything is predicting warm conditions in August across the country,” he added. “With widespread warm and dry conditions, we expect things to peak
in August.”
However, they are not predicting conditions as extreme as last year’s “heat dome” that killed 526 people in B.C. in late June and early July last year.
“Last year was an anomalous year,” Carr’s colleague Piyush Jain said. “More than 100 million people were exposed to (wildfire) smoke in North America last year. That’s more than any year in the last 20 years.”
FRASER SNOWPACK ABOVE NORMAL
Snowpack levels in two Upper Fraser watersheds are well above normal, according to an update from the B.C. River Forecast Centre, raising concern the Central Interior could be in for a bout of flooding.
As of May 1, the level for Upper Fraser West stood at 140 per cent of normal
while that for Upper Fraser East was 125 per cent, both up noticeably from 95 and 117 per cent the month before as unseasonably cool weather not only delayed snow melt but led to some late-season snowfall.
The measurements indicate a “significantly increased risk of flooding this spring,” the RFC said in the bulletin but cautioned that snowpack is only one factor in whether the Fraser and other rivers will burst their banks.
“Weather conditions from May through June determine the timing, magnitude, and rate of snow melt, where heavy rainfall events can exacerbate snowmelt-driven flows. An extreme heat wave - like the Heat Dome in late June 2021 - could lead to significant provincial flooding if it occurred between mid-May to mid-June,” the RFC says.
Saturday Evening Bingo at 6:00pm
Let’s focus on new downtown
Despite all of the time, money and effort to lure a couple of new hotels and two new apartment/condo buildings downtown in the past 10 years, the real heart of the city continues to grow much faster with little local government support
New Downtown is the west bowl area between Ospika Boulevard and Highways 97/16, from 15th Avenue to Ferry Avenue, with new apartments, hotels and retail developments springing up in response to demand from residents and consumers. The area is anchored by Exhibition Park to the west, the College of New Caledonia and Prince George Secondary School to the east, a row of apartments and retail areas to the north, and Pine Centre Mall (with a massive new Save-On-Foods under construction) to the south. The city’s two public transit hubs, at Spruceland and Pine Centre malls, are located just north and south of New Downtown, which has easy road access and plenty of public parking.
As the Prince George Coliseum, Elksentre Arena, the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre, the Prince George Playhouse, Studio 2880 and Bob Harkins library branch reach the end of their useful lives, the city should build their replacements at Exhibition Park, creating a year-round hub of sports, culture and events When it’s time for a new city hall, its replacement should be built on the land currently used for the city’s 18th Avenue city works yard and Quinn Street Transfer Station, while the city works yards should move back to Old Downtown.
With its proximity to the airport, rail yard and heavy industry, Old Downtown would make an excellent light industrial park. The area east of Queensway and along First Avenue is already light industrial. Keeping the city’s social services located in and around the courthouse would help prevent some of the city’s crime, homelessness and social problems from migrating to New Downtown. Light industrial businesses, with sturdy fenced compounds, heavyduty walls and doors, and few walk-in customers, are far less vulnerable to casual crime than retail stores and restaurants with large glass frontages.
Prince George has wasted decades and millions trying to make Old Downtown something it is never going to be, but it’s not too late to change direction. People and business have been voting with their feet for New Downtown for nearly half a century. Local government should get with the program.
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
DON’T BAN MOTHER’S DAY
When I first read the leaked email from W.L. McLeod Elementary in Vanderhoof that canceled Mother’s and Father’s Day, I was flabbergasted! It explicitly states, “We will not acknowledge traditional Mother’s and Father’s Days at McLeod. Please do not do so in your class.”
The email goes on to include a link to a Toronto Star article – the journal of wokeism - titled “It’s Time to Get Rid of Mother’s Day.” Since the leaked email went public, much of the response from School District 91 is just a whole lot of verbal gymnastics to justify the unjustifiable I think of those tender moments when a child comes home from school with a macaroni necklace, clay handprint, or a stick figure drawing and says, “I love you, mom!” and hangs it proudly on the fridge. Or the teenager who writes a poem thanking their father for putting up with them and sticks it in his sock drawer to find. I shrink in agony to think that any person should want to deprive a mother or father of that joy.
Mother’s and Father’s Day is not just about traditional families. It’s about celebrating that single mom, who has struggled and sacrificed so much to feed and raise good kids – she deserves a Mother’s Day. It’s about foster kids bringing a gift to dad on their Father’s Day visit
because they really do still love him – those kids and that dad need a Father’s Day. It’s about remembering a lost parent, spreading love to caregivers, and helping a child make a gift because they are too young to make their grandparent guardian breakfast in bed. Mother’s and Father’s Day is an opportunity to heal families, to recognize that moms and dads aren’t perfect but we love them anyway. The power of children is their healing love and they’re trying to take that out of schools. You shame us all, SD 91.
How heartless have you become to think that you made the world a better place by canceling Mother’s and Father’s Day? That one moment of love between a mother or father and their child is worth more to our society than all your virtue signaling woke lectures on “honouring diversity”. Since when did we stop honouring mothers and fathers and start honouring ideologies? We can’t let them cancel Mother’s and Father’s Day. Mothers and fathers are the foundation of our society and deserve to be celebrated, flaws and all. I for one won’t remain silent. The School District thinks I’m in the minority so we need your voices to stop this.
Tell School District 91 to bring back Mother’s Day and Father’s Day!
Dan Brooks, Vanderhoof
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Decolonization is nothing to fear
Decolonization is a word we often hear in Canada today. In essence, it means to remove the colonial. That can mean different things to different people, and misconceptions often cause fear. Perhaps finding a relatively successful example of decolonization in process can help us to understand the concept.
Ireland was one of the first countries colonized by Great Britain. Many methods for colonizing were tested out on the Irish, such as removing people from their land and bringing in settlers, imposing the colonial language, restricting cultural practices, and reducing the Indigenous population.
British practices in Ireland were very similar to those used in India, Africa and North America. It is not a question of race; it is an issue of one nation trying to control another, and using any means necessary to do so.
The Irish resisted the British
LESSONS IN LEARNING
GERRY CHIDIAC
conquest and found ways to thrive as a people. In other words, they decolonized. Language and culture played a significant role in helping the Irish to survive, and they also fueled the Irish cultural renaissance.
Perhaps the reason why the British and Canadian governments made such draconian efforts to eliminate Indigenous cultural practices in North America was because they had seen them play such a major role in maintaining the spirit of the Irish people. The Irish are known for their music and dance and these have always given voice to Irish heritage and to Irish resistance.
Of course, it is impossible for two situations on two separate
continents to be identical. While the political situation in Ireland is completely different than ours in Canada, we can still learn from one another. It has been a gift for all Canadians to see Indigenous language, dance and music rise in prominence. There is something soulful in a drumming circle that empowers and strengthens us all. One day we will have Cree and Dakelh immersion schools, and our Indigenous languages will experience the same renaissance as Irish Gaelic. In fact, this is already happening.
Over the centuries, the Irish have not only endured oppression, they have gifted the world with a model of decolonization by embracing and celebrating their language, culture and traditions.
They have proven that decolonization is nothing to fear, it is something to celebrate.
Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George writer.
Gravity pushing us into darkness
As John Mayer says, “Gravity has a hold on me”. And you. And everything. The Law of Gravity tells us everything in the universe is attracted to everything else.
Everyone learns about Newton’s apple in elementary school. It is an apocryphal story but illustrates the point that objects of all sizes are attracted to the Earth. Apples fall. What is missing from the story is the Earth is attracted to the apple. It falls a little bit towards the apple as well. Or it would if the apple and the Earth were the only two objects involved.
Measuring Newton’s gravitational force constant solidified his Law of Gravitation. We have understood the behaviour of gravity for a very long time. However, a theory of gravity was a much more elusive task. After all, most of us can accept
RELATIVITY
that if we drop an object, it will fall towards the Earth but why? Simply answering “gravity” doesn’t explain why gravity does what it does. It is the equivalent of saying “because.”
One of Albert Einstein’s great contributions to physics was to provide an explanation of gravity in his General Theory of Relativity. Essentially, the equations describe the curvature of space-time as a consequence of the matter and energy in it.
Imagine a rubber sheet stretched over a large area. Drop a marble on the sheet and you get a small dimple in the rubber around the marble. Drop a bowling ball and you get a
REPORT NEEDS VISIT TO AREA
Dear Premier Horgan and Ministers Eby and Cullen, Terrace has been subject to numerous serious crimes in the downtown city core that have negatively affected local businesses and has destabilized our sense of place and community. We are grateful that you have recently appointed a small group to investigate and report back to the government on how to deal with repeat offenders. Northern B.C. is unique because we are remote, have a very high Indigenous population, big industrial projects are currently on the go and we have very limited services that offer key support to marginalized people. I believe it is important that this small investigative group demonstrate good faith towards smaller northern communities and actually visit a number of communities that
COMMUNITY POLL
Participate in this week’s polls at
RESULTS from last week’s polls: What should the city do to bring the new pool back on budget?
● Recover the costs for the extra primer on the steel beams - 208 votes (35%)
● Costs are going up everywhere, so nothing can be done - 142 votes (23%)
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very large dimple – a deep well –formed in the rubber sheet.
But if you place the bowling ball near to the marble, the deep well will draw the marble in and down to the bowling ball. That’s gravity. The curvature of space-time draws objects together within a four-dimensional structure. For the marble to get out of the well takes energy. And if the well is deep enough, there will never be enough energy for the marble to escape.
This is what a black hole is. A deep, deep well in space-time from which even photons of light are incapable of escaping. This week, astronomers have finally been able to capture an image of the one at the heart of our galaxy.
Eventually, everything in our galaxy will fall into that black hole. Todd Whitcombe is a chemistry professor at UNBC.
have been affected. Please take us seriously in Northern B.C. and actually come and see firsthand what is going on before you draft up your report.
Charles Claus, Terrace
USE BETTER STREET PAINT
I have a wonderful suggestion to save lives and make Prince George a friendly, safe place to visit and live. Please update the street surface markings with paint that lasts so people can see where they are going. I understand the paint was changed to save the wildlife, but I haven’t seen any wildlife harmed on account of licking the roads. What I have seen is drivers confused, driving in the wrong direction or the wrong lane and turning inappropriately. This is a safety concern for all.
Doreen McFarlane, Prince George
Should the court case against Dr. Henry’s vaccination orders go ahead?
● Yes, exemptions weren’t given due consideration - 51 votes (6%)
● Yes, she overstepped her authority247 votes (28%)
● No, they were reasonable public health orders - 364 votes (41%)
● No, they protected vulnerable people and health-care workers215 votes (25%)
How are you coping with this spring’s chilly weather?
● It’s not a problem - 230 votes (41%)
● Doing some inside projects - 99 votes (18%)
● Catching up on my reading - 36 votes (6%)
● Taking an out-of-town vacation - 19 votes (3%)
● Complaining to anyone who will listen - 174 votes (31%)
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. Maximum length is 700 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.
Need moreinfo?AcopyoftheproposedBylawandany relevantbackgroundmaterialsareavailableforreviewbythe publicontheRegionalDistrict’swebsiteat http://www.rdffg. bc.ca/services/development/land-use-planning/currentapplications/ orattheRegionalDistrictoffice,Mondaythrough Friday,8:30a.m.to12:30p.m.and1:30p.m.to4:30p.m., betweenMay10andMay31,2022.TheofficeisclosedonMay 23.Appointmentsarepreferred.
Who can Ispeak to? DanielBurke,PlannerII,250-960-4400
Local paint-by-mouth artist fine-tuning her skills
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
Trying to use her hands just got too frustrating for one young girl struggling at school during her early years.
Finally in Grade 10 Jenna Wuthrich decided she didn’t really care what others thought about how she got things done and away she went using her mouth to write, keeping up in class the only way she could and best of all developing her art.
Wuthrich has arthrogryposis, a rare disability that limits use of her arms and legs due to under-developed muscles and joint contractures.
“With this condition I had to adapt and the only thing I could use was my mouth,” Wuthrich explained. “It was so much easier to write with the pencil in my mouth rather than trying to work with it between my hands.”
Wuthrich is all grown up now and as her mom posted on Facebook recently, she’s a beautiful, independent woman and her parents are proud of the artist she has become.
“I grew up in an artistic family,” Wuthrich said. “My aunt, Erica Hawkes, is getting to be quite a well-known artist and she’s been to art school and her work was always around me growing up and she had her art published in a children’s book and it was always a lot of fun to read and so I just grew up wanting to do that – make art myself - so I continued to do sketching and painting.”
It wasn’t until 2020 that she really focused on her artwork, she added.
She had a little art shop at that time called Beauty Within Arts in partnership with her another aunt but it closed mid-2021 because of the pandemic and now Wuthrich can be found on her website and Facebook under the same name.
Over the years, Wuthrich said she’s learned more about her culture and has focused some of her pieces on that while also making art that moves her like creatures she
sees in nature.
“A lot of my art techniques are selftaught and I just like messing around with the paint until I love the piece,” Wuthrich said.
Most recently, Wuthrich painted three feathers on a drum her mother made for her.
A little varnish to protect the paint and the drum will be good to go, she added.
“When I do my art I do research on it first then I do a sketch and then I transfer the sketch to the canvas or the drum, whatever I’m painting on,” Wuthrich said.
During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wuthrich went through
a hard time financially and was supported by the Salvation Army. She was trying to get her own place together and needed to all the basics, including a bed.
When she reached out to the Salvation Army, organizers told her that she could trade her artwork for what she needed and that’s how she was able to get her household in order.
“They were really awesome and helped me out a lot,” Wuthrich said. Her landscape painting can now be seen on the wall above the cashier’s counter at the Salvation Army Curt Garland Support Centre Thrift Store.
Casting call out for hoarders
DALGLEISH Citizen staff
Have you ever watched the TV series Hoarders, where a person is eased into cutting the clutter and cleaning up their lives, freeing themselves from the things holding them back from living their best lives? Well, now there’s an opportunity for the Canadian hoarder to make that change.
Saloon Media, a Blue Ant Media company, has announced its Hoarders: Canada series that sees a team of experts tackle some of Canada’s most challenging hoards, giving viewers an in-depth look at the emotional stories of those dealing with compulsive hoarding behaviours.
Casting for Hoarders: Canada is now open and is accepting applications from across the country at hoarderscanadacasting.com
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Jenna Wuthrich is a local artist who paints by mouth. Here she is seen with her latest creation, a drum her mom made her that Wuthrich finished by painting it.
CHRISTINE
Sixties Scoop exhibit coming to library
HANNA PETERSEN
Citizen staff
A national exhibit on the Sixties scoop is coming to the Prince George Public Library (PGPL).
“The Sixties Scoop” refers to government practices across Canada from the 1950s to the 1980s that led to an unknown number of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children being taken from their parents, families, and communities by child intervention services and placed in non-Indigenous families.
Many of these children experienced abuse, mistreatment, and neglect and lost touch with their families, communities, culture, and traditional language.
The Sixties Scoop Indigenous Society of Alberta (SSISA), is now partnering with the PGPL to bring the Bi-Giwen: Coming Home – Truth Telling from the Sixties Scoop travelling exhibit to various B.C. locations, including the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh.
The exhibit shares the experiences of survivors, including twelve personal testimonials of strength and resilience.
The powerful display (developed for
those over the age of 13) will be accessible to the public free of charge at the Prince George Public Library’s Bob Harkins Branch, downtown, on Wednesday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“The Sixties Scoop Indigenous Society of Alberta (SSISA) is proud to bring this exhibit to Prince George,” said the Society’s president, Sandra Relling. “It describes the powerful and emotional stories and devastating impacts of Sixties Scoop in Canada. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Prince George Public Library as we showcase this exhibit throughout BC. The exhibit is an opportunity to share and educate Canadians about the history of Indigenous people in relation to the Sixties Scoop.”
“We believe hosting exhibits and conversations like this is extremely important to our community,” library board chair Mike Gagel said. “Our mission is to build a resilient community by creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for every person to read, connect, and share. Bringing our community together to learn about this tragic and significant part of our history in a safe and supportive space is a vital part of this mission.”
Local author unveils colouring book series
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH
Citizen staff
Elizabeth Ferris, a children’s book author from Prince George, has created a collection of colouring books to complement her Positively Georgia series about an optimistic Airedale who has empowering messages to share with children.
There are four colouring books in the series each with a holiday theme.
Positively Georgia, the cheerful Airedale puppy, chooses to see the brighter side to every situation in life while encouraging others to maximize their potential and accomplish their dreams.
The books are currently available at Positively Georgia colouring books on Amazon.
The exhibit was created by the Sixties Scoop Indigenous Society of Alberta.
Senior athlete sets another B.C. record
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
It’s another B.C. record for a Prince George Track & Field Club athlete.
Tom Ukonmaanaho, who is 77 years old and doesn’t practice the event, flew through the air in pole vault to beat the old record of 2.22 metres for men aged 75-79 years, with a leap of 2.30 metres at the Dylan Armstrong Track Classic meet held in Kamloops May 6 and 7.
The record was set by Gerard Dumas in 2010, and he locked it in with a repeat in 2013. Dumas has the record for 80-85 year old men, too, with 2.02 metres he set in 2015 and currently holds the 85-89 men’s record set in 2021 with 1.65 metres, which is also the Canadian record.
Here’s hoping Ukonmaanaho can follow Dumas’ longevity and keep breaking records.
Ukonmaanaho has held several records over his athletic career, including current BC records for the 100m and 200m sprints for 70m, 4 x 100 relay for 65m, 4 x 400 m relay for 60m and 4 x 400 for 70m. His team currently has the BC and Canadian record for the indoor 4 x 400 metre relay 75m with the approval pending for the world record that was set in February in Kamloops at the BC Masters Indoor Championship.
Perhaps his greatest accomplishment
Tom Ukonmaanaho competes in Kamloops at the Dylan Armstrong Track Classic where he set the BC pole vault record for men 75-79 with a height of 2.30 metres.
came when he took the mens’ decathlon for 75-79 year old men last summer and broke the BC record by more than 2,000 points and the Canadian record by more than 200 points with a score of 5,297 points in the 10-event test of endurance, speed and strength that labels people the
greatest athlete of all time.
Ukonmaanaho runs three times a week to keep in shape.
“At my age, that’s enough – I know some people that train just about every day but I need the recovery time,” Ukonmaanaho said. “And so far three times a
week has been good – no issues.”
Most plans to compete are tentative for Ukonmaanaho, who has the Canadian Masters National Championship on the list of competitions he’d like to attend. The event will be held at the end of July in Regina this year and it’s the first time they’ve been held in three years because of the pandemic. His last national competition was the Canadian Indoors in Edmonton in 2019 so it’s been a while since he’s competed on that level.
Next up after that would be the BC Masters Championships and Multi Event for Masters hosted once again by the Greyhounds Masters Track & Field Club in Surrey in August.
Then one of the masters’ favourites is the 55+ BC Games that will be held in Victoria in September. There is always lots of pomp and circumstance that goes with the games where there’s an athletes’ parade during opening ceremonies, a gala and street party so everyone can gather in celebration and athletes are awarded their medals with a step up onto the podium to honour excellence.
But the most anticipated event for Ukonmaanaho?
“It’s going to be the decathlon competition in late August in Surrey,” he said. “If my body lets me do it again, I will and I will be darn lucky to be healthy enough to do it.”
College Heights guard joining Timberwolves
RICH ABNEY UNBC
The UNBC Women’s Basketball team didn’t have to look far for its newest recruit, signing Prince George product Sophia Fuller for the 2022-2023 Canada West season and beyond.
“Honestly, it’s just crazy to me. The fact that I can play on this team and I am playing at the highest level. I am excited for it and it is definitely going to be different than high school. Obviously I have been watching them for so long, so the fact that I actually get to play is almost like a dream for little Sophia.”
Fuller grew up watching the TWolves compete, and has long hoped to one day don the green and gold. A smooth guard who plays with speed and intensity at both ends of the floor, she believes this is the ideal next step on a basketball journey that started when she was nine.
“I think it’s a good fit. I have been here my whole life and I know how they play. I like watching them play and I enjoy how they’re a team and work together. I am a team player, so the fact that I get to be on this team excites me.”
Fuller, whose father Dave serves as an assistant coach for the Timberwolves,
has trained numerous times with the varsity program since the conclusion of the 2021-2022 campaign. She acknowledges there will be a learning curve in her transition to the highest level of university sport in the country, but credits her time with the TWolves in helping her acclimate to the collegiate game.
“They’re all really nice people, and they really helped me fit in when I started training with them. Obviously, I was a bit scared, but they are really nice. These girls are a lot more physically strong and they know how to play basketball. It is way different than high school basketball.”
UNBC head coach Sergey Shchepotkin has seen Fuller’s development and believes the five-foot-seven combo guard can become a contributor to the Timberwolves program over her five-year career.
“We are really excited to add Sophia to our program. First of all, she is a local player who has grown up cheering for the Timberwolves. We have been able to have her for training and she has shown a great hunger to improve and grow as a player. Sophia plays with speed and grit, and I think she will develop into a player who makes an impact for us at the Canada West level.”
Winning the only cure, Cougars owner says
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Playing in a building that seats nearly 6,000, the Cougars averaged 1,915 fans per game in their 34-game 2021-22 regular season, the third worst attendance figure in the Western Hockey League.
That’s 518 fewer fans than there were in the 2019-20 season (there were no fans allowed in the COVID bubble a year ago).
That continued a trend toward a declining fan base that started in 2017-18, when a new ticket structure jacked up ticket prices as much as 40 per cent, enough to convince hundreds of longtime Cougar supporters to hang on to their wallets and decide not to renew their season subscriptions.
As part of EDGEPRo Sports & Entertainment Ltd., the group that owns the team, club president John Pateman knows the Cougars will continue to bleed money when their rink is only one-quarter full. They need at least 3,000 fans per game just to break even.
Pateman knows there’s only one cure: the Cougars have to become winners on the ice and that’s a hard habit to get into. Since 2007, which was the last time they advanced to the third round of playoffs, there’s only been three seasons in which the Cougars have won more than they’ve lost. It certainly didn’t happen this past season when they finished 15 games below .500 (24-39-4-1) and barely made the playoffs.
“We do keep saying that we’ve got to win,” said Pateman. “People get tired of hearing, ‘oh we’re going to be good next year,’ but we’re at the stage where we really believe we are going to be good for a fair while here. Our hockey team is going to be good for the foreseeable future and we’re going to find out over the next three or four years if we can tweak this thing.”
The Cougars spend about $3 million per season just to operate in the league and ticket revenues and sponsorships are the only way to recoup that cost.
An extended playoff run would help the bottom line significantly.
“I think to see a bunch more season tickets we’ve got to go out there and win something,” Pateman said. “From the sponsor side, we can do more on that getting local businesses to buy in. We’re kind of a community team, is how we look at it. It was never going to be a money-maker to speak of for us. We’d like to not lose.
“If we could fill the rink in the second round of the playoffs, that’s my big dream. Say at some point next year or the year after we make the second round, I think, just like what happened with the Spruce Kings, a lot of people would buy in and create a great entertainment environment. People love to win and they love to be entertained, so that’s certainly what we’ll attempt to do.”
Pateman was unable to reveal how much in the red the Cats will be this season. The Cougars did receive federal and provincial grants during COVID that kept their staff employed during the down times over the past two years and those subsidies ended last October. Pateman said that compared to 2019-20, the team’s revenues this past season were down by close to $500,000.
“You’ve got COVID, so you have people who couldn’t come to the games because they weren’t vaccinated, you’ve got people who were nervous about going out in crowds and you’ve got people that didn’t like wearing a mask for three hours,” he said. “Attendance in the whole Western Hockey League was down 28 per cent and we were about that average. Maybe most of that 29 per cent was people that didn’t want to wear a mask, weren’t vaccinated or felt uncomfortable sitting beside somebody they didn’t know.”
For 2022-23, the team is offering a capped price of $510 for seniors and youth for the better seats and one price for children aged 2-6 regardless of where in the arena they sit. Pateman said some tickets have increased two or three per cent and the price of seats in the ends has jumped seven or eight per cent.
Prairie Naturals RedSuperfood
Aconvenient,ready-to-use
89-year-old granny loves watching pro wrestling
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
My granny, Irene, loves to do traditional grandmotherly type things like knitting and baking but nothing lights up her eyes more than wrestling.
The first time I took her to a wrestling match was back in 2019 when Canada’s Wrestling Elite held a fundraiser at Ron Brent Elementary School and I couldn’t believe how happy it made her.
She was jumping out of her seat with excitement, rooting for the “good guys” and telling off the “bad guys”. Her only complaint was that she wasn’t ringside. I had heard stories from my dad about how much she loved wrestling and how she was an incredibly passionate spectator to put it mildly.
My granny and grandad moved to Canada from Denmark in the 1950s and settled in Mission before moving to Prince George. She said they used to drive to Chilliwack every week to watch wrestling where the venues would be packed with people as B.C.’s local wrestling circuit in the ‘50s and ‘60s was very popular.
There’s an incident of legend in our family that details an incident in the ‘60s where my granny may have gotten a little too passionate at a wrestling match
and tried to grab at famous Canadian wrestler Gene Kiniski to my grandad’s embarrassment.
When I found out that WrestleCore was coming to Northern FanCon this year I just knew I had to take her and we headed over to Kin 3 to take in some pro wrestling for the first time in years.
From the moment the first wrestlers,
the Bollywood Boys, entered the ring my granny was ready for the action.
Being 89-years-old and a two-time cancer survivor her intensity has waned but she was on the edge of her seat the entire time even standing up at some points to get a better view as the fighting moved across the ring.
She was absolutely thrilled to be sitting
not far away from G Sharp when he was thrown into the chairs and was blown away by the final match where Adam Ryder ‘the Haida Hero’ faced a multitude of other wrestlers.
“Oh would you just look at that,” she said when they brought out a ladder which you just knew would be used for some epic body slams.
I asked her what she loved most about wrestling and she laughed and said “It’s the bad guys. I know it’s not right but I like the bad guys so I can yell at them.”
What I love most about my granny’s love of wrestling is that it’s an illustration of her passion for life.
Despite some real hardships over the past few years, my granny still finds immense joy in the things that she loves, which just so happens to include pro wrestling, and I hope when I make it to her age I can say the same thing.
When I told my granny that I would be writing a review for WestleCore I asked her what she thought I should say and she said, “You need to tell them how we felt about it and that we thought it was really something.”
So thanks to Northern FanCon and WrestleCore for bringing wrestling back to Prince George because my granny had a really great time.
Elder tells residential school story in video series
were published by Lheidli T’enneh earlier this month.
Lheidli T’enneh Elder Clifford Quaw has finished recounting his residential school experiences in a multi-part series called ‘My number was 26 – The Clifford Quaw Story.’
At just five years old in 1953, Quaw was forced to attend Lejac Residential School in Fraser Lake, B.C. where he went until 1963.
The first part of the Clifford Quaw story was published in September 2021 in honour of the first-ever National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Quaw recounts his time as a student at Lejac and how he was given the number 26 by teachers and staff and not called by his name, Clifford.
He has now completed telling his story in three additional installments – which
“As we were recording it, I was realizing wow there’s so much more here than what we were going to record for the first part, so that is when we started talking to Lheildi T’enneh about being able to record more,” said Andrew Johnson, of Sonic Interactive Solutions, who produced the series along with his wife and creative director Joelle Johnson.
“Let’s make sure we get as much out of Clifford as we can and get him to tell as much of the story as he can so that it doesn’t get forgotten.”
As an instructor who regularly teaches about residential schools, Quaw said recounting his story is simply oral history which he sees as part of his job as an Elder.
“What better way to learn history about residential schools than from a survivor.
EVENTSARE
I am here. I went to that school and look what happened to me. Alcoholism, residential school syndrome, but I overcame it,” said Quaw. “That is what keeps me going.”
Quaw says he hopes when people sit down and watch his story, they can gain an understanding of what residential school survivors are facing and how they pass on their trauma inadvertently.
Once when he was giving a lecture to CNC students, Quaw noted he had an ‘Aha!’ moment where he realized that intergenerational survivors of residential schools live by four words – don’t ask, don’t tell.
“You ask for help and then out comes the strap, ‘That will teach you. Don’t tell don’t tell nobody’ and the strap comes out again. That is how we were brainwashed into keeping the secrets there,” said Quaw.
“I had a stronger mind after I healed. When I said them four words, it is part of a teaching tool to tell the students what we had gone through. ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ and I still use those four words to the present day, but I ask, and I tell.”
Quaw said he envisioned a light at the end of the tunnel and that light was his future and he now focuses on the positive.
“That is why I am doing this history lesson on residential schools and I am glad I am doing it. I enjoy teaching,” said Quaw.
“That’s what I tell people. ‘How can you sit there and talk about residential schools?’ well I am an instructor for one and two I enjoy it. It’s oral history.’
Everyone can watch the full ‘My Number was 26 – The Clifford Quaw Story’ including Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 on YouTube.
ALLEN DOUGLAS / KTW PHOTO
My granny Irene at WrestleCore on Saturday night during Northern FanCon.
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Doctor gets award for 20 years of rural service
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Dr. Edward Marquis of Prince George has been awarded the 2022 rural Long Service Award which is given to physicians who’ve served rural communities for over 20 years.
For the last 23 years, Marquis has had a family practice in Prince George.
The Society of Rural Physicians of Canada (SRPC), the organization that presents the award, classifies Prince George as rural relative to the Lower Mainland.
“I think of recognition, as a ‘Thanks’ for doing what you do. It is important for all of us to hear once in a while,” said Marquis.
“It is also not the reason we do what we do. A ‘Long Service Award’ like this, given by a respected group of peers at the SRPC is an honour.”
Marquis, who is originally from Cranbrook, started practicing in the north in 1992 after doing locums (temporary placements) in Nelson, Valemount, the Hazeltons, and Terrace before he eventually settled in Mackenzie as the community was in desperate need for fulltime coverage.
In 1998, he left Mackenzie for Prince George.
“This was a logical family transition as I was able to continue to practice in classic rural style (meaning seeing patients in the office, covering the emergency room, teaching students, and seeing patients
in the hospital and the office), and still support my more rural colleagues as the primary referral center for our surrounding communities,” said Marquis.
Marquis said he was attracted to rural medicine because he’s always been fond of the small-town doctor construct where you get to know patients through the generations – including delivering some
of his patients’ grandchildren.
“The challenge of clinical responsibility in a low resource environment was exciting as a young physician. I wanted to practice in an area of need in our province. I wanted to connect with community. I wanted to test all the skills I had learned in medical school, and add new ones. I wanted to explore the north!”
Marquis said one of the constants in his career so far has been change.
He says medicine has seen changes in everything from communication technologies to new pharmaceuticals, chronic disease management, and advanced cancer treatments.
“Aging is such an interesting process, and we have the privilege of doing this alongside our patients in family medicine. Helping our cohort throughout this journey is truly special.”
He’s also found a passion for medical leadership and sat at local and provincial tables and become involved in attempts at system improvement since the mid-90’s.
He has been a member of the SRPC since 1995 and is a past recipient of the Rural Service Award (2016) and the Fellowship of Rural and Remote Medicine of the SRPC (FRRMS) 2018.
“Our communities’ evolution has allowed my children to attend secondary education at CNC and UNBC, and several of my own medical students have gone on to provide rural medicine and medical leadership at a level that one individual could never do alone,” said Marquis. “We all work and play in this boreal forest on our host Lheidli T’enneh territories.”
Many remote regions across Canada are underserved and struggle to recruit and retain physicians and one of the purposes of the service award is to celebrate the commitment of rural physicians.
Meet the local physiotherapist treating dizziness
HANNA PETERSEN
Citizen staff
For people who live with a vague sense of dizziness or vertigo for years without any relief, sometimes vestibular – inner ear – therapy is the only answer.
Carly Chuby has worked as a physiotherapist in Prince George for the last 11 years and while many therapists offer vestibular treatments, she is the only certified vestibular therapist in northern B.C. Chuby and her husband Jon, who is also a physiotherapist, opened their own clinic called Altea Physiotherapy and Wellness in February this year where she is now treating patients who suffer from vestibular disorders.
“There are three things that make you feel balanced: what you see with your eyes, what you feel underneath your feet, and your inner ear organ or your vestibular apparatus,” explains Chuby.
She said the job of the vestibular system is to tell your brain where your head is in space so you’re not walking around with your head tilted 45 degrees, for example.
“If something is wrong with this organ you can fall, you can get very dizzy and you can get conflicting messages to your brain which is very disorienting,
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Physiotherapist Carly Chuby holds a model of the vestibula system.
troublesome, and scary for some people,” said Chuby. “In this population that has this vague dizziness getting this system assessed is so important because it can be a vestibular disorder and it is super treatable with exercises, certain medications or maneuvers.”
Chuby said she became interested in vestibular disorders when she was attending the University of Manitoba and one of her placements also specialized in vestibular therapy. In 2017, she then completed her certification through Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
“You have to take such a long amount of time to tease through these vague symptoms patients are getting but come to these conclusions that are complex and difficult to figure out,” said Chuby.
“Then you make a huge difference in these people’s lives because they can drive again, they can walk again, they can go to work again, they can play with their grandkids.”
She said the most dramatic difference she sees is in treating benign positional paroxysm vertigo (BPPV) which is caused by crystals in the inner ear that can become dislodged.
Chuby said she can relieve the feeling with a simple four-minute maneuver.
“I have had patients that have had it for 20 years, untreated, and have just learned to live with it. I can cure them and it is this dramatic change in their life because now they can lay flat again, they can shoulder check, bend forward to tie their shoes, they can garden – it gets people back to their lives.”
Although she’s always wanted to return to her hometown of Winnipeg, Chuby says practicing in northern B.C. and seeing how underserved the region is keeps her in Prince George.
“Before people would be waiting six months to a year to see a neurotologist in St. Paul’s in Vancouver but I can assess most of those things and get these people back to living and they don’t need to travel so it is really rewarding and nice to be able to offer it in this community.”
Chuby says one of the big things she wants people to understand is that dizziness is not a normal process of ageing.
“There is obviously some age-related imbalance that does happen, but generally speaking, if it happens suddenly and it’s not this gradual onset and you are not 80-years-old that is not normal. You shouldn’t get dizzy when you are rolling over in bed or looking up,” says Chuby.
“Even if you have general imbalance or dizziness, get an assessment because you might have a vestibular disorder and it is very treatable.”
She says physiotherapy is a constantly emerging field and vestibular therapy is another tool in the toolbox to help people recover. “Physio is evolving all the time and I get to be a part of that and it is really exciting.”
SOCIETY OF RURAL PHYSICIANS OF CANADA PHOTO
Dr. Edward Marquis of Prince George has been awarded the 2022 Long Service Award for 20-plus years of service
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classifieds
In Loving Memory
Always in our hearts, Forever in our Memory.
Love Mom, Dad, Kevin, Shari & Families
In Memory Of NATHAN LINDEN
May 14, 1994 May 23, 2007
For Nathan,
I thought of you today, but that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday and days before that too.
I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.
All I have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake, from which I’ll never part. God has you in his hands, we have you in our hearts.
Love Dad and Mom
In Loving Memory Of KEVIN VICTOR
PATRICK JAY
April 21, 1961May 22, 2017
It’s been five long years since you left us. We miss your smile, joy of life and wicked humor.
Loving you always Mom and Shirley
In Loving memory of Don Gerald Wilson
October 29, 1938 - November 28, 2021
Thank you for the laughs, the times we’ve shared together, the memories worth remembering forever. It was a privilege, to be called your best friend Gone but not forgotten, Your dearest friend Jean
In Loving Memory of John Douglas Gaskell
Dec. 8, 1955 - May 24, 2007
REMEMBRANCES
Memorial Services
March 2, 1929 - Dec 23, 2021
There will be a Celebration of Life for Hollis on:
Friday May 20, 2022 at 3:30 pm
Prince George Golf & Curling Club
Shirley Ann Thomasson
Kelly Laurel Lee Thomasson Jul 5, 1944 - Apr 15, 2022 Dec 12, 1963 - Sep 30, 2021
A Celebration of Life for Shirley and Kelly Thomasson will be held on Saturday May 28, 2022 at the Elks Community Hall - 663 Douglas St at 6:00pm. Please wear some green as it was Shirley’s favourite colour.
PATRICK MOLLER
August 29, 1938 - October 28, 2019
Daughter of the late Enoch and Leah Patrick of Fort Fraser, B.C.
Celebration of Life and Internment of Ashes
Where: Fort Fraser Community Hall
Date: May 28, 2022 Time: 11am - 2 pm Luncheon to follow ceremony. Procession to Fort Fraser Cemetery for Internment of Ashes.
Jeanette Sitoski May 20, 1927 - December 30, 2021
A Celebration of Life
ERIC WOYCIEHOUSKI
July 18, 1972 - May 22, 2007
Hollis Thomas Wood
ESTELLA
Irene
Memoriam
Memoriam
Robert Allan Thomasson
Robert, mostly known to friends and family as “Bob” or by his Mom, “Bobby”, died weeks after being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 79 years.
Bob was a friendly, giving, and kind man who had many adventuresfishing, hunting, and exploring Central America. He always had a story to share or advice about his favourite placeMexico!
Bob has reunited with those who predeceased him; parents John Thomasson, Olive & Robert Baxter; brother John Thomasson and his daughter Kelly Thomasson.
He was survived by his daughters Kathy Kast (Michael) and Jenny Plouffe (Maurice), along with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Hoping we all hold warm memories of Bob’s easy smile and laughter. As he would say, “Now I’m off like a herd of turtles”.
No funeral service by request.
Condolences may be offered at www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com
Diane Berg
Oct 16, 1957May 5, 2022
We are saddened by the sudden passing of Diane Berg on May 5, 2022 at home. She leaves behind her two children Chad Berg and Sherry Berg and her grandchild Thalia Berg. Loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and grandma, she will be missed greatly.
A. Wayne Hoff
March 4, 1948 - May 7, 2022
Our hearts are filled with sadness as we announce the death of Alan Wayne Hoff. Wayne had his loving family by his side.
Although loved and missed by many, Wayne will be especially missed by his wife Doris of 48+ years, his daughters, Erin (Aaron), Leslie (Arvind), Allison (Jeff) and granddaughters Katie and Claire.
Wayne loved being known as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 35 years. He looks forward to all of Jehovah’s promises being fulfilled.
- Joshua 24:15
Danny R Marleau (Yogi)
May 21, 1955 - December 28, 2021
Danny R. Marleau (Yogi) of Prince George, BC Passed away with family by his side on December 28, 2021.
He is survived by his children Debbie Van Damme, Darrell and Dana Grandchildren: Matthew and Mackenzie Siblings: Dennis (Margaret) and Jude And three nieces.
Preceded by his parents Raymond Marleau and Dorothy White.
Danny will be missed dearly by his family and his many friends. He will always be remembered for his love of fishing and driving taxi in Prince George.
Memorial service to be held for family at a later date. Final resting place will be Prince George Memorial Park Cemetery.
Leona Sturby (Beck)
August 17, 1940May 7, 2022
We are sad to say our loving wife, mother, baba has passed away at the age of 81. Predeceased by her granddaughter Brittney; sister Lena; brothers Pete, Dan, Eddy and parents Walter & Kate Beck. Survived by her adoring husband Bill of 60 amazing years; children Boyd, Dean (Naomi), Sherry (Wayne) Lussier and Angela (Sean) Scarsbrook; grandchildren Shantal, Mason, Nicole, Steven, Tianna, Krissy, Molly and five great-grandchildren. She will be missed by so many close friends and family and will be forever in our hearts. A Viewing will be held on Friday, May 20th at noon at Assman’s Funeral Chapel with the Funeral Service beginning at 1 pm. The burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Condolences may be offered at www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com
Verna Lillian Cheer (nee Simmons), age 99, passed away peacefully at the Gateway Lodge in Prince George, BC, on Wednesday, April 27, 2022.
Verna was born on February 17, 1923 in Saskatchewan. Prince George was home to Verna since 1946 where she worked at Simon Fraser Lodge for many years until retiring in the 1980’s. Verna was predeceased by her husband, Wallace and three sons, Wally, Glen and Terry. Survivors include Verna’s daughter, Shirley (Dave), sisters Flora and Shirley.
A special thank you to the Gateway Lodge for all the years of love and caring. No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned.
On May 19, 1962 you made me the happiest man on earth. Not a day goes by that you are not on my mind . Thank you for the wonderful years, I look forward to another 60 years when we are together again for all eternity.
Forever in my heart Grenville
Hay/Bales For Sale
Help wanted for local financial services location - an Office Assistant, 3-4 days per week, top wages plus benefits. Some experience in this field would be helpful. Reply to Box 1001 c/o 505 4th Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3H2
Prince George & District
Elizabeth Fry Society & Elizabeth Fry Housing Society
Is accepting applications for the following positions:
-Maintenance Coordinator
-Maintenance Assistant
-Tenant Support Worker
-Casual Transition House Workers
-Family Connections Support Worker
For more detailed information please refer to our website: www.pgefry.bc.ca/careers
CARPENTERS REQUIRED
Full time positions available to start immediately. Currently building in the new Creekside Properties Subdivision in Prince George, BC.
Job Duties:
Reading blue prints, building foundations, installing floor beams, walls and floor systems. Preparing layouts in conformance with building code. Laying subfloor, installing windows, doors, moulding and hardware when required. Repair and maintain residences as required. Measuring, cut and shape and assemble materials made of wood, etc.
Skill Requirements:
5 years carpentry experience. Must have knowledge of how to operate tools and power equipment. Must have English as a first or second language.
Applicant must have their own hand tools, hard hat, safety goggles and steel-toed boots.
Work conditions are physically demanding. A typical day may require handling of heavy loads, bending, crouching, kneeling and a combination of sitting, standing and walking.
Wage will depend on experience $31 - $35/hr Extended benefits are available.
To apply:
Email
Fort St. James Forest Produc ts, a division of Hampton Lumber Mills, We have challenging opportunities for innovative and highly motivated individuals
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
How to write a classified ad that works.
Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice offered or the job title.
• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice offered or the job title.
• Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response.
• Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response.
• Limit abbreviations Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.
• Limit abbreviations Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.
• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.
• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.
• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.
• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.
Fort St James Forest Products, a division of Hampton Lumber Mills is a brand-new sawmill/planer mill complex that is targeted to star t production in 2022.
We are looking for hard work ing and dynamic individuals to be a par t of our team.
Below are the employment oppor tunities we have available at this time if you are interested in joining the team based out of Fort St James, BC.
For more information on the positions available please visit our website at https://www.hamptonlumber.com/careers/ Hampton Lumber Mills provides a competitive wages and benefits.
Qualified applicants should email their resumes to FSJFPEmployment@hamptonlumber.com
Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300
To advertise, call 250-562-6666 or email cls@pgcitizen.ca
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300
Skilled Help
Skilled Help
Hours of week:
’en
Finance Controller
FTE -35Hours per week (8:30 a.m. –4:30 p.m.)
Common hours areduring the day with the exception of evenings and weekends as required.
Location of work:
Office of the Wet’suwet’en 3873 –1st Avenue, Smithers Phone: 250-847-3630
Reports to:
Executive Director –DebbiePierre
Organizational Context:
The Office of the Wet’suwet’en negotiates land, natural resources, economic development, human services and Wet’suwet’en Title and Rights on behalf of the Wet’suwet’en Nation. As the administrative body,itreceives its strategic leadership and direction from the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs, as the gover ning body
Purpose:
As the Finance Controller is part of the Management Team and oversees the financial management of all programs and administrative operations of the Wet’suwet’en Nation’s administration office to ensureeffective program delivery in acost-effective manner.The Finance Controller will provide supervision to the Finance Department and Receptionist to ensureeffective, culturally appropriate services for the Office of the Wet’suwet’en. The Finance Controller is accountable for all financial performance and exercises all authority transmitted into the organization by the Chiefs. Finance Controller performance will be considered to be synonymous with organization financial performance as a whole.
Major Focus:
The Executive Director provides leadership and direction in financial management and evaluation of service and program delivery in the broad areas of Human and Social Services, Economic Development and Lands and resources, and Fisheries and Wildlife. The Finance Controller will support the delivery of the programs in accordance with applicable contribution agreements, acts, regulations direction and standards. The Chiefs also provide effectiveness and efficiency of all financial areas. The Financial Controller is responsible for management of the Finance Department, contracted resources, financial and physical resources and the resolution of financial priorities and issues.
The Finance Controller has the responsibility for ongoing the financials and service delivery structure, for guiding the Office in meeting its goals, setting priorities, developing program procedures and ensuring evaluation and review financial activities areinplace
The results of the Finance Controller’sperformance will be considered in the following areas:
1. Accomplishment of the Chief ’s direction/decision;
2. Operation within the guidelines and boundaries set out in the Chief ’s policies on Executive Limitation;
3. Compliance with the Wet’suwet’en Charter of Gover nance/legislation and Chief ’s priorities.
Relationships:
The Finance Controller will liaise and maintain effective relationships with:
•Band and Municipal Gover nments
•Provincial and Federal Gover nment officials
•Other First Nations and other stakeholders
The Senior Management Team will attend Chief meetings and provide the chiefs with regular reports on program and services. The Finance Controller will also inform the Chiefs
of any problems or sensitive issues that arise with respect to finances.
•CPA Designation or currently working towards CPA designation
•Experience and knowledge of Wet’suwet’en cultural and values
•Valid BC Driver’sLicense and reliable vehicle
Skills:
•Self-motivated
•Organizational
•Professionalism
•Problem Solving
•Communications
Roles and Responsibilities:
•Interacts with theManagement Team on aroutine basis and established good working relationships;
•Participates in all regular Chief meetings to report on financial and program status and to provide ongoing advice for strategic and tactical planning decisions;
•Provide interpretive documents in laymen’sterms;
•Manage the day to day Financial, Human Resources and Personnel Standards of all office staffare met;
•Work with Program Managers to ensureprogram accountability, financial stability,and ensureprogramsare adapting to changes/growth and areculturally competent;
•Provide fair and timely decisions when conflicts arise;
•Createa healthy and supportive environment;
•Beproactive, fair/impartial and provide professional leadership to the Senior Management Team, including recruitment and selection, orientation and training, performance planning and review and interpretation of policies and procedures;
•Proving information in atimelymanner to Chief ’s table for direction and ensuredirection is implemented.
Special Knowledge
•Strong knowledge of theWet’suwet’en Clan/House Group lineage and House Chief Traditions
•Strong knowledge of theWet’suwet’en Cultureand Traditional functions and able to participate when required.
When submitting your application for the above position, please clearly indicate how you meet the required qualifications and include the following:
1. Acover letter clearlyindicating the position for which you areapplying.
2. Aresume with three references.
3. Job description is available upon request Apre-skillevaluationisrequiredfollowing averbal interview
APPLICATION PACKAGES ARE TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE FOLLOWING: Office of the Wet’suwet’en Attn: Judy Walton #1 -205 Beaver Road, Smithers, B.C. V0J 2N0 OR *EMAIL: judy.walton@wetsuweten.com
*Subject line MUST CLEARLYSTATE “Finance Controller Application” Close Date: May 20, 2022
Mike &Erica Browne are thrilled to announce arrivalof their beautiful bab Nath Happy Birthday!
Bobby Erickson wants all his friendsto kno he made itto the
Digital SalesSpecialist
The Prince George Citizen is growing our team and looking to add aDigital Sales Specialist.
The ideal candidate is someone who is comfortable meeting with business owners, managers and decision makers and discussing their marketing and communications needs. Prior media experience is an asset, but not required. We’relooking to onboardsomeone with agreat attitude and personality
As adivision of Glacier Media, our sales team at the Citizen has access to industry-leading digital marketing solutions, to help our clients reach the right audience with the right message at the right time.
If this opportunity speaks to you, please email your resume to Curtis Armstrong –carmstrong@pgcitizen.ca by May 27, 2022
Sales Associates Job Fair
At Your Local BC Liquor Store!
Saturday,May 28th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
At the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) our vision of ‘Service. Relationships. Results.’ is all about providing avalued service, building strong relationships with our stakeholders, and achieving greater results for the province.
The LDB is one of two branches of government responsible for the cannabis and liquor industry of B.C. We operate the wholesale distribution of beverage alcohol within the province, as well as the household retail brand of BC Liquor Stores.
We employ nearly 5,000 people in over 200 communities and have been named one of BC’sTop Employers 14 times over for offering exceptional places to work.
We are dedicated to the highest quality of customer service, delivered with friendliness, individual pride, initiative, and retail passion! If you fitthis description and you are prepared to work in afast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply to become apart of BC Liquor Stores. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following qualification requirements:
•Beatleast 19 years of age
•Beable to legally work in Canada
•Beable to provide excellent customer service
•Beable to communicate effectively and professionally with the public
•Beable to demonstrate aptitude for cashier and related duties, including calculations
•Beable to perform physically demanding work, including lifting 20-25 kg boxes
•Have avalid Serving It Right Certificate™
•Complete asuccessful Criminal Record Check
BC Liquor Store Sales Associates may be required to operate avariety of mechanical and hand-operated equipment, in addition to handling large volumes of bottles as part of the LDB’srecycling program.
Rate of Pay as of April 11, 2021:
Auxiliary Sales Associate -$19.45 per hour
Seasonal Sales Associate -$18.08 per hour
For exciting and challenging retail Auxiliary and Seasonal opportunities in our BC Liquor Store, please apply in person at astore near you.
On November 1, 2021 the BC Public Service announced the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy that defines the conditions and expectations for BC Public Service employees regarding vaccination against COVID-19. Among other possible measures, proof of vaccination will be required. It is aterm of acceptance of employment that you agree to comply with all vaccination requirements that apply to the public service. More information can be found here: https://www2. gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/all-employees/safety-health-well-being/ health/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination-policy-for-bc-public-service-employees
SETS, OLD STERLING SILVER, COIN COLLECTIONS +++ ALSO BUYING GOLD!!! TODD 25O 864 3521
Mills/Equipment
SAWMILL, 48” head rig, hand set, completely rebuilt, $8000 obo plus parts. 250-441-3242
Wanted
BUYING ALL GOLD!! WANTED 9999 BULLION!!!
BARS, COINS, WAFERS, ALL JEWELRY, WATCHES, CHARM BRACELETS, SCRAP, DENTAL GOLD, ALL GOLD COINS, COIN COLLECTIONS, SILVER COINS, ALSO BUYING SILVER! TODD 25O 864 3521
BUYING OLD JEWELRY, COINS, OLD MONEY, COIN COLLECTIONS, 9999 BARS & COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, COIN SETS, WORLD $$$ COLLECTIONS ++ TODD 25O 864 3521
$1050 per load delivered
614-6667
Sheds/Outbuildings
12 pitch that is 20’ high at peak. Outside wall cladding painted tan. $30, 000 Call Bob 250-983-3372
CASH for ALL gold & silver! Bullion, coins, bars, jewelry, nuggets, sterling, 9999 SILVER+. Also buying COIN COLLECTIONS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS & old money. Canada & world collections WANTED. Todd 250-8643521.
REGISTRY IN THE SUPREME COURT OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
Replica Oil Paintings:
CANADIAN IMPERIAL BANK OF COMMERCE PETITIONER AND:
XUAN ZHAI
THE OWNERS, STRATA PLAN PGS223 RESPONDENTS
ADVERTISEMENT TO: XUAN ZHAI
TAKE NOTICE THAT on May 10, 2022 an Order was made for service on you of a Petition and supporting Affidavit issued from the Prince George Registry of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in proceeding number PRG-S-H-2260347, by way of this advertisement.
In the proceeding, the following relief, inter alia, is sought by the Petitioner, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce; foreclosure or sale of property at 1300 Diefenbaker Drive E, Prince George, BC (the “Property”).
You must file a Response to Petition within the period required under the Supreme Court Civil Rules, failing which further proceedings, including Judgment, may be taken against you or the Property, without notice to you.
You may obtain, from the Prince George Registry, at J.O. Wilson Square, 250 George Street, Prince George, V2L 5S2, copies of the Petition, the supporting Affidavit, and the Order providing for service by this advertisement.
This advertisement is placed by Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, whose address for service is: GOWLING WLG (CANADA) LLP
Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for Disposition of Crown Land
Take notice that Sylvatica Forestry Services Ltd - DBA Dezaiko Alpine Adventures from Prince George, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forest (MoF), Omineca Region, for a Temporar y Licence of Occupation for Commercial Recreation Guided Nature Viewing situated on Provincial Crown land located at UNSURVEYED CROWN LAND IN THE VICINITY OFGLEASON CREEK, CARIBOO DISTRICT.
The Lands File for this application is 7410226 Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Tricia Klein, Land Officer, Omineca Region, MoF, at 5th Floor 499 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1R5 or Tricia.Klein@gov.bc.ca Comments will be received by MoF up to June 18, 2022. MoF may not be able to consider comments received after this date
Please visit the website at: https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/applications#splash for more information
Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record For information, contact the Freedom of Information Advisor at the Ministry of Forests Office in Omineca Region
A hard copy MAP showing the location and extent of the application area may be acquired by calling the land officer named above at 250-649-4303
Comments concerning this application should be directed to the Land Officer at 5th Floor 499 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1R5 or Tricia.Klein@gov.bc.ca Comments will be received by the Ministry of Forests until June 18, 2022. Ministry of Forests may not consider comments received after this date Please visit the Applications and Reasons for Decision Database website at https:// comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/applications#splash for more information.” Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record For information, contact the FOI Advisor at the Ministry of Forests regional office
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HOMES
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
Home architecture trends in 2022
Whether you’re planning to renovate in 2022orsimplybuyahomethatisfashionforward, here are four trends to know aboutthisyear
1. MULTIPLE MASTER BEDROOMS
With more and more children living at home for longer, one of the newest trends istohavemultiplemasterbedrooms.This can also give you twice the opportunity todecorate
2. RECYCLED MATERIALS
Going green has also been a style revolution lately. In 2022, expect to see more homes built using recycled and organic materials
3. OPEN CONCEPT
2022istheyearwhereopenconceptfloor plans dominated not just the office, but
thehomeaswell.
Expect this trend to continue this year, when more people are working from homeduetothepandemic.
4. LAUNDRY ROOMS CAN BE SO MUCH MORE
We’ve seen kitchens and bathrooms dominate people’s attention for a few years now. Combining style and function willonlycontinue
The next room that people will start to payattentiontowillbethelaundryroom, typicallyanundeveloped placeinhomes.
Whatever the current fashion is, your local real estate agent can help you navigate between what’s going to look good for now and what will look good for the nextdecade.
FREE ESTIMATES
Buying land: what you need to know
So, you’ve decided to build a home from scratch. While there are numerous advantages to building your dream house from the ground up, there’s one important thing to think about that many people often forget:land.Findingtheperfectplotoflandis difficult.You might think that all you need is to find the one that seems the most aesthetically pleasing, but there are a few important considerations you need to make beforeyoubuy
ZONING LAWS
Beforeyoubuyaplotofland,it’simportant to verify what kind of zoning restrictions exist for the area you’re looking into You wanttomakesurethatthelandsurrounding the property doesn’t have planning permission for warehouses, apartment complexesorevenhighways.
LOCATION
Isyourdesiredplotpart of a larger real estate development?What kind of school district is it in? What kind of view is your plot going to give you? These areallimportantquestions you need to ask before committing to buying aplotofland.
It’s foundational
When you’re looking to buy a new house, thefoundationisoneofthemostimportant aspects of any home you inspect. It’s literally what everything else about the house restsupon.Repairingahome’sfoundation can cost in the five-figure range, so be sure to check the following three parts of a house when doing the rounds of open-
housevisits. LOOK UP, NOT DOWN
Foundations,bytheirnature,tendtobeout of sight, so finding evidence of problems can be tough. If the lines of the top floors and attic are askew, that may be a sign of trouble below If ceilings are uneven or if attic walls aren’t straight, this can also be a sign that the foundation has problems.
WINDOWS AND DOORS
Checktoseeifdoorsandwindows close properly If they jam for no apparent reason, the house itself may have foundational problems.
WALLS
Your exterior walls can sometimes change their shape from normal settling over the years and are therefore one of the least reliable indicators of foundation damage. Extreme bowing (walls sticking out in the middle), however, can be a sign of structural problems.
Consult with your local real estate agent to make sure you’re getting what you pay for when buying a home.Heorshewillhelpyouavoid hugerenovationsfromthesekindsof hard-to-identifysources.
Why zoning laws?
UTILITIES AND RESOURCES
Youneedtoknowexactlywhatkindofaccess to utilities your land will have. This includes water, electricity, waste managementandeveninternetaccess
FLOOD RISKS
The composition of your land is also important Find out what kind of risk your landwillbeatforflooding.Thiswilldeterminewhatkindofinsuranceyou’llneedto purchasewhenitcomestimetobuild.
Whenbuyingapieceoflandoraproperty, it’s important to consider what kind of zoning laws are in place for the area you’re lookinginto.Zoninglaws(especiallyinresidential neighbourhoods) exist to ensure thateveryoneissatisfiedwithwhatgoeson in their neighbourhood. Continue reading tofindoutwhatkindofzoninglawsmight affectyoubeforeyoudecidetobuy
RUNNING A HOME BUSINESS
If you’re looking to buy in a residential neighbourhood and planning to run a business out of your home, you’ll definitely want to check the zoning laws beforehand. If your business could cause undue disturbancetootherslivingaroundyou,it’slikely that zoning laws will prohibit you from doing so, and your business could be shut down.Talk to your neighbours before star-
ting a business; find out how they’d feel about having it on their block. Often, this will onlybecome anissue ifanofficial letter ofcomplaint is sent to local authorities. Sodoyourduediligencebeforeyoudecide onwheretobuy
EXPANDING AN EXISTING PROPERTY
Sometimes, when you decide to buy, you do so with the idea in mind that you’ll be expandingthepropertytoincludeanextension on the house. There are a number of reasonswhyyoumaynotbeallowedtoextend (proximity to a neighbours fence, for example),soproceedwithcautionandfind outbeforeyoumakeanyadd-onplans
REPURPOSING YOUR LAND
Planning to buy in a rural area with the intentonchangingtheuseofthelandinquestion? Be sure to consult your local government before doing so to make sure that your lot is properly zoned for whatever changes you plan on making.
Zoning laws exist to protect your neighbours’ interests as much your own. They ensure that everyone is held to the same standard and that everybody’s interests are equallyserved.Getinformed before you commit to the purchase of your newhomeorplotofland.
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Three deal breakers when buying an older home
For many people, the unique character of an older house is a great attraction on the realestatemarket.Butsuchpropertiesalso have unique problems that you should knowaboutbeforebuying.
MOULD AND TERMITE
DAMAGE
Whileallhomesaresusceptibletothesethreats, older homes are often at a much higher risk than others, as they are more often made of materials attractive to these organisms. If you see extensive termite droppings near structural elements or that mould covers more than 10 square feet of thehouse,youmaywanttolookelsewhere forahome.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Ifthehouseyou’relookingatwasbuiltbefore 1980, be sure to have the inspector
check for lead pipes and asbestos. Lead pipes and asbestos were widely used in homesbeforetheirtoxiceffectsonhumans wererecognized.
DUBIOUS NUMBERS
Besuretocheckthenumbersbeforebuying an old house. Figure out what the house would cost on the market if it was fully repaired.
If the difference between that number and what you’re planning to pay for it is less thanthecostofrepairs,don’tbuythehouse.
Ifyouenjoyhomerenovation,anoldhouse can be a great investment. But be sure it’s worth it. An experienced real estate agent canhelpyouthroughtheprocessoffinding therighthouseforyou.
What to know when buying an older home to renovate
If you’re handy with home repairs and in themarketforanewhouse,investinginan older home can be a great idea. Sometimes, however, people who love to build canfocustoomuchonwhatthey’regoing to change and ignore some other essential pointsaboutolderhouses.
Be sure to keep in mind these three things when looking for an older home to renovate.
1. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Renovating an older home is best when
most of the problems are simply cosmetic. One fundamental issue to take care of, however, is your home’s energy efficiency Will it be costly to insulate it, or will it simply be a matter of replacing a few windows?
2.
WATER QUALITY
Notallthethingsyouneedtocheckareinside the house itself. If you have water on your property, have it tested to be sure it’s safe(particularlyifyou’llbedrinkingit).
3.
HISTORIC STATUS
Ifenoughpeopleagree with you that an older home should be preserved, either your home or some aspect ofthesurroundingarea may have historic protection status. This can, in some cases, affect what changes you can and cannot make to a house or property
Be sure to check the status of any home beforeyoubuy
Yourrealestateagentis an invaluable resource when navigating the complexities of buying a home. Contact one today so you can know you’re getting the best advice.
