THURSDAY, January 19, 2023
Mill rocked by tank mishap
ARTHUR WILLIAMS
Citizen staff
A violent operational incident at Canfor Pulp’s Intencontinental Pulp Mill on Dec. 13 caused damage to the dissolving tanks used in the pulp manufacturing process.
Nobody was injured but the mill was shut down as a result
“There was a smelt water reaction in the dissolving tanks at the Intercon mill where hot smelt interacted with cold water causing noisy jolting within the tanks. The event, which lasted two to three minutes, caused damage to the tanks,” said
Michelle Ward, Canfor Pulp’s vice president corporate communications
The adverse reaction in the tanks happened six days before Intercon went into a planned two-week curtailment that had been scheduled to start on Dec 19
While there were no injuries, LeBlanc knows some employees were traumatized by the incident
“It could have been bad,” said LeBlanc “Luckily the tank didn’t rupture or any of that stuff, it just blew a bunch of pipe and cladding and skirting off ”
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to WorkSafe BC spokesperson Alexandra Skinner.
Community builder remembered as ‘a kind and generous man with a great sense of humour.’
The permanent closure of Canfor’s Prince George Pulp and Paper’s pulp line will put 300 employees out of work and those lost wages could take $30 million out of the local economy.
Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad says that for every job lost at the mill, local contractors, suppliers, retail stores and service providers will also feel the pinch once the mill closes in March
“It’s obviously incredibly challenging and very difficult for the families and workers affected and it’s not just the direct jobs, the forest sector has a 2-to-1 ratio in the jobs that are going to be impacted in our community and that’s really tough for so many people,” said Rustad.
“You’re up around a $50 million impact at least in terms of the community. If these workers decide they want to leave town to find other work, they have spouses and families that may be working in other fields, like health care, and people are going to be looking at leaving ”
In the wake of the PG Pulp closure, Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond says it’s critical for the province to find ways to help the affected workers and their families
“In the immediate term, we need to take care of the employees who are losing their jobs to make sure they have all of the supports and resources they need,” Bond said.
“Secondly, we need to then have to have a conversation about what does the forest industry look like moving forward and how do we ensure that we have a thriving economy in Prince George, in our region ”
“The city is not going to take this lying down,” Prince George Mayor Simon Yu said “These are our friends and loved ones and it’s tough. We all knew the beetle kill would one day affect the fibre supply. The warning signs were there but still it’s hard to take.”
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Canfor’s Intercon pulp mill in Prince George
OUVERTURE FESTIVAL
FESTIVAL OPENING
7:30PM | PRINCE GEORGE CIVIC CENTER
FESTIVAL COLDSNAP | COLDSNAP FESTIVAL 35$ - CODE PROMO DISPONIBLE AVEC LE CERCLE
& THE DELICIOUS HOUNDS
CUISINE | COOKING
10AM | ÉCOLES FRANCO-NORD
SOIRÉE HOCKEY | HOCKEY NIGHT
7PM | CENTRE CN - PG COUGARS!
Soirée hockey en Français - Jeux & prix Hockey night in French - Games & prizes
BILLET EN LIGNE - TICKETS ONLINE
REPAS DES AÎNÉS | SENIOR’S LUNCH
11AM | HOTEL COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
55 ans+, danse, repas et spectacle musical 55 years+, dance, meal & musical performance
CABANE À SUCRE | SUGAR SHACK BRUNCH
ÉCOLE ST MARY’S SCHOOL
10:30AM | SERVICE 1 12:30PM | SERVICE 2 MEMBRES | GRATUIT - FREE NON-MEMBRES | 20$
Concours de cuisine intergénérationnel Intergenerational cooking contest
ACTIVITÉ SPORTIVE | SPORTS DAY 1PM | NORTHERN ICE SPORTS
Soirée Patinage - Amenez vos patins! Skating Day - Bring your skates!
ÉCOLES | SCHOOLS
FRANCOPHONE & IMMERSION
Spectacles dans les écoles School performances
ARTISTES D'ICI | LOCAL ART
EXPO PHOTO ARTISTE LOCAUX LOCAL ARTIST PHOTO EXHIBIT
Toute la journée - All day
RENCONTRE D’ARTISTES FRANCOPHONES FRANCOPHONE ARTIST TALK
JOSÉ LUIS TORRES 7:30PM | Two Rivers Gallery
Brunch, nusique et activités d’antan Brunch, music and cultural activities
GABRIEL DUBREUIL COLLAGE TRAD
ÉVASION
VOS PLACES! RESERVE YOUR EVENTS!
Union president blames closure on forest policies
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
The president of the local representing unionized workers losing their jobs as the result of Canfor’s decision this week to close its Prince George Pulp division blames the move on “failed forestry policy.”
“Starting with the Liberals, when they changed the forests code, to recently the old-growth deferrals, to recently the caribou habitat stuff, which has directly impacted Canfor and Canfor Pulp because that’s right in their fibre basket and taking that wood away has definitely put pressure on them,” Chuck LeBlanc, Local 9 president of the Public and Private Workers of Canada (also known as the Len Shankel local) said “Two years
ago, lumber prices went through the roof and now they can’t even produce it and make up the costs. On top of that, we have five million cubic metres of raw log exports shipped overseas. That’s (the annual output of) eight to 10 sawmills and it affects the pulp mills after that and it’s happening year after year. We need to change what we’re presently doing, otherwise we’re going to lose a lot more jobs in this area.”
Some of those job losses will be absorbed through early retirement packages, but the economic impact on the city will be huge, just in lost salaries alone
“It was a surprise, but it wasn’t a surprise,” he said.“I think the writing was on the wall We’ve got five big pulp mills (three in Prince George, two in Quesnel) that consume a lot of fibre and something had to give You
always hope it’s not going to be your mill but here we are now. It’s a big loss to this community. You’re looking at probably a thousand job losses by the time everything shakes out, from contractors and suppliers and you name it, just people out shopping downtown, it will be a large impact to the Prince George area.”
LeBlanc said the union and the company have been meeting to discuss adjustment plans and what government programs are available to support the affected workers and he’s been focusing on getting that information out to his membership
“We’re making sure the employee family assistance program is there for them because we’re expecting quite a large uptake in mental health issues because this is a major stress on a family’s life,” he said
LRB sides with Canfor over payouts to workers
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A Labour Relations Board panel member has set aside an arbitrator’s decision that would have entitled workers to “group termination pay” following closure of Canfor’s Mackenzie sawmill.
On June 10, 2019, Canfor issued a six-week closure or “curtailment” and one week later, on June 17, 2019, laid off almost all of its 187 unionized employees. Then, on July 18, 2019 - 10 days before the mill was scheduled to re-open - the company announced that the curtailment would be extended indefinitely
In turn, the Pulp, Paper and Woodworkers of Canada Local No. 18 filed a grievance which contended in part that, in accordance with the Employment Standards Act, an employer must pay out group termination pay whenever it terminates 50 or more employees at a single location within any two-month period.
Canfor disagreed, asserting that since the starting dates for the layoffs began 24 hours the employees’ various recall rights were to expire, effectively staggering the start dates so that the threshold had not been met.
In a decision issued May 10, 2021, arbitrator, Nicholas Glass, agreed with the union But in a decision issued last week, the panel member, LRB vice chair Stephanie
Drake, found in favour of Canfor
The differences between the findings centred on interpretations of the relevant section of the ESA
Had the outcome gone the other way, Canfor would have been facing a significant bill, ranging from one week’s wages to as much as eight weeks, depending on how long the employee had worked at the operation
Following the arbitrator’s decision, Canfor had sought a review at the B C Court of Appeal but was redirected to the LRB.
As a result, the appeal to the LRB was filed more than eight months after the arbitrator’s decision, and well past the 15-day time limit
Environmental Protection Notice
Application for a(n) Approval Under The Provisions of the Environmental Management Act
Coastal GasLink has submitted an application to the BC Oil and Gas Commission to authorize the discharge of air emissions from burn piles The proposed burn piles are to be operated to burn clean wood waste (unusable/damaged mats) generated by construction in Sections 3 and 4 of Coastal GasLink
The land upon which the burn piles will be situated and the discharge will occur, is located within the Regional District of Fraser – Fort George, approximately 60 km northwest of Prince George, BC The burn piles will be located within the Coastal Gaslink right-of-way at the locations indicated on the map
The burning will be undertaken in a dug-out pit on mineral soils with berms surrounding the area The operating period for burn piles will be 24 hours per day for between 6 and 20 days depending on the site-specific volumes and site conditions Burning will occur over the 15-month approval time period as conditions allow
Any person who may be adversely affected by the proposed discharge of waste and wishes to provide relevant information may within 30 days after the last date of posting publishing service or display, send written comments to Coastal GasLink, with a copy to the Regional Manager, Environmental Protection at BC Oil and Gas Commission 6534 Airport Rd, Fort St John BC V1J 4M6 The identity of any respondents and the contents of anything submitted in relation to this application will become part of the public record
PG is B.C.’s crime capital, StatCan data shows
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Prince George leads B.C.’s biggest municipalities in the frequency and severity of crime, according to an analysis of 24 years of Statistics Canada data.
Prince George, Victoria, Vancouver, Chilliwack and New Westminster have the highest average Crime Severity Index scores among the 20 largest municipalities in the province. On the other end of the spectrum, the District of Saanich, District of North Vancouver, and cities
Public meeting:
of Delta, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam were the safest communities on the list.
Statistics Canada has produced annual Crime Severity Index reports since 1998. The index ranks the amount and seriousness of crime in a community, on a per capital basis, against an average score of 100.
We averaged the annual Crime Severity Index scores for B.C.’s 20 largest municipalities from 1998 to 2021 to rank them from most dangerous to safest:
1) City of Prince George: 191 36 (Highest: 250 26 in 2019, Lowest: 129 4 in 2014,
Williston Reservoir 2023 operations update
BC Hydro will be hosting an open house to discuss Williston Reservoir operations. Due to dry conditions and low inflows, lower than average water levels are forecast on Williston Reservoir in spring, 2023.
You’re invited to an information session:
Date: Thursday, January 26, 2023
Time: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. PST
Where: Mackenzie Recreation Centre, Sas Da ‘Ghe room, 400 Skeena Drive, Mackenzie
We want to hear from you, and we hope to see you there.
Years above 100: 24/100%)
2) City of Victoria: 176.03 (Highest: 277 58 in 1998, Lowest: 101 24 in 2013, Years above 100: 24/100%)
3) City of Vancouver: 148 95 (Highest: 263.63 in 1998, Lowest: 90.11 in 2021, Years above 100: 23/96%)
4) City of Chilliwack: 148.19 (Highest: 209 84 in 2003, Lowest: 103 in 2013, Years above 100: 24/100%)
5) City of New Westminster: 144 17 (Highest: 274.55 in 1998, Lowest: 71.43 in 2017, Years above 100: 16/67%)
6) City of Kelowna: 139 66 (Highest:
200 09 in 2004, Lowest: 99 47 in 2013, Years above 100: 23/96%)
7) City of Naniamo: 138 55 (Highest: 190.51 in 1998, Lowest: 96.44 in 2015, Years above 100: 22/92%)
8) City of Kamloops: 137.41 (Highest: 190 92 in 2003, Lowest: 98 14 in 2015, Years above 100: 23/96%)
9) City of Surrey: 136 16 (Highest: 186 96 in 1998, Lowest: 86.98 in 2021, Years above 100: 20/83%)
10) City of Burnaby: 120.4 (Highest: 191 78 in 1998, Lowest: 74 93 in 2017, Years above 100: 13/54%)
Alt-right paper using Citizen boxes illegally
Copies of the far-right propaganda newspaper, The Epoch Times, have been illegally appearing in Prince George Citizen distribution boxes.
The Prince George Citizen does not endorse the views expressed in The Epoch Times, and is encouraging readers to call 250-562-2441, ext. 38757 if they find copies in any of our distribution boxes so they can be removed and destroyed
“We ask the person or persons placing
these items in our distribution boxes to cease and desist immediately,” Citizen publisher Curtis Armstrong said “If this continues, the Citizen and our parent company, Glacier Media, will consider taking additional steps to prevent the illegal use of our distribution box network ” Citizen distribution boxes are private property, and are for the exclusive use of the Prince George Citizen and our paid flyer customers
NOTICE OF MEETING
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George Board of Directors will commence 2023 budget deliberations at 1:00 p m , Wednesday, January 25, 2023 The Committee of the Whole agenda containing budget matters will be available at wwwrdffg bc.ca beginning on January 19, 2023 Individuals or organizations who wish to provide comment on Regional District budget matters may do so as follows:
• by commenting by email to budget@rdffg bc.ca
• by commenting thru the Regional District’s Facebook page
• by commenting thru Twitter using the hashtag #RDFFGbudget K Jensen General Manager of Legislative and Corporate Services
City drops mandatory vaccination policy
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The City of Prince George suspended its mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirement for city employees and contractors last week but one city employee who refused to get vaccinated says their career is in ruins.
The employee, who the Citizen has agreed not to identify, has been on an unpaid leave from the city since Jan 14, 2022.
Their job was posted and filled following a March 14, 2022 deadline and they face termination on Jan 15 this year, unless the City of Prince George announces a change in policy
In an interview last Thursday, Mayor Simon Yu said an announcement will be
coming on that issue.
Yu said there are 16 unvaccinated city employees remaining on unpaid leave
The employee said the loss of their job has affected them financially, emotionally and mentally.
“My career with the city is ruined. One full year of lost wages, missed opportunities with job promotions,” the employee said.
“Take your pick, how can a person really measure the impact that this heinous act has had?”
The employee said the loss of their health benefits means they can’t afford to
pay for needed dental work for members of their family, and their credit score has been ruined.
As of last Friday morning, the employee had not had any communication from the city or their union about the upcoming Jan 15 deadline for unvaccinated workers
“I have received a phone call from the union asking what my email address is They wanted to know how I was affected by the policy and if I wanted my job back,” the employee said
“The city had the audacity to send a mental health pamphlet at Christmas time ”
City council candidate Paul Serup was the only person to reach out to them about how they were handling the situation, the employee said
“The mayor nor a single city councillor has reached out to ask a single question from me. Don’t you think they should be communicating with the very people who are being affected?” the employee said “Clearly the wrong council was voted in.”
The employee said the entire blame for their situation lies with the city’s senior administration
“If the city manager was the one responsible for implementing this policy, he should be immediately fired with no severance package,” the employee said
“Same with the HR team, everyone should lose their jobs at the minimum ”
In memory: Ken Goss
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
It was always about family, community and friends for Ken Goss, who passed away Jan. 6 at the Rotary Hospice House.
per cent club in 1990 In 1995, he was presented with the Re/Max Team Spirit Award for Western Canada and was inducted into the Re/Max Hall of Fame that same year
“He was born and raised here and he was a great ambassador for the city,” Ken’s wife Darlene said. “Wherever he went he’d be promoting Prince George because he loved the people and wanted the community to thrive so he volunteered for various thingsfrom a number of charities, right into sports ”
Ken was an excellent athlete in his youth, playing baseball, hockey, basketball, lacrosse and the list goes on He was a construction plumber pipefitter for 18 years before he found his path in real estate sales.
“Whether it was commercial or residential, he always looked for the property that was best for the client,” Darlene explained Ken’s philosophy. “He didn’t think about the dollar signs, only what was best for them. He always said ‘if I won’t sell that house to my family, I won’t sell that house to you’.”
Ken was recognized for his outstanding care of his clients with several MLS awards and was awarded Re/Max 100
“In real estate he was an innovator,” Darlene said “He was the first to put his phone number rather than the office phone number on his signs He was the first to use a cell phone and the first to decal his vehicle and the first to use a truck rather than a car and he said he was the first to change the dress code from a suit and tie to more casual These are the little things that depict who he was ” And then there was his other job, volunteering in the community.
“He was always involved with things that would improve the community,” Darlene recalled
“He supported the Evening in Pink when it was going, helped start the Cougar Alumni tournament to raise money for the Spirit of the North so we could have better equipment for our local hospital.
“He was a kind and generous man with a great sense of humour,” she added. “His glass was always half full, never half empty. He always had a very positive attitude towards everything Family, friends and community were very important to him He just loved people ”
Regenerlife products from Natural Factors! These amazing products are all targeted towards helping you to enhance your energy and your vitality at a foundational level, so you are able to get the most out of your life! Each of these amazing new products targets cell stress, which helps you to unlock more energy, healthier aging and faster exercise recovery time empowering you to embrace life on
KEN GOSS
Seniors can opt out of paying property taxes
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
Denise Goodkey is concerned about Prince George seniors who saw whopping increases in the assessed value of their homes.
One senior told the Citizen she was worried she wouldn’t be able to afford to pay her property tax bill but Goodkey, a former Prince George city councillor who spent 40 years here before returning to Vancouver to enjoy her retirement from teaching, has a solution
“I just thought it was important for her to know this is available and not only will she not have to pay more taxes, she’ll pay no taxes,” Goodkey said.
“It sounds like she could use the extra money.”
The regular tax deferral program, which is a low interest loan program, can be used by people who are 55+ or the surviving spouse at any age
There is also a program for families with children as well.
The BC government pays the taxes and the owner pays back the loan from the BC government
Eligibility is pretty standard
property’s assessed value or you can’t apply for the deferral
Timing is everything with this deferral application and it is recommended to apply online after receiving your property tax notice and before taxes are due
Not only will she not have to pay more taxes, she’ll pay no taxes.”
Residents must own the property and it has to be their main place of residence and here is where the challenge might come in.
Homeowners also must have a minimum equity of 25 per cent of the
The interest is a modest 1 70 per cent that is not compounded and you can pay it back anytime but you must pay it back if you sell the property
“I can’t remember exactly when I started using the deferral,” Goodkey said “It was some time after I first read about it and I hope (Prince George seniors) will read about it now too. When I first heard
about it I thought, “I can’t squander my kids’ inheritance like that” but then I got an assessment and the value of my place had gone up so much I decided the kids would do quite well in any case.”
Goodkey wishes Prince George seniors well as they struggle with financial uncertainty
“It’s really easy to do as long as you have enough equity in the property and it’s a really good thing,” Goodkey. “And I hope Elizabeth will do the deferral if she needs to ”
And remember if you are 65+ there is an extra grant amount that you can claim on your homeowner’s grant as well
So instead of the grant amount being $750, it goes up to $1,045 if you live in Northern BC It’s not a lot but every little bit helps these days.
SUPER BINGO
SATURDAY, JANUARY 28TH
Saturday Evening Bingo at 6:00pm
$7,000 Jackpot Games $600 Regular Games $1,200 Double Win Regular Game Full Cards $1,000 (game #4, #9, #12) Double Win $2,000 ($4,000 in 50 calls or less on Double winn)
$1,200 on: Exacta, Good Time Treasure Block of Nine, and jackpot consolation games
$1,500 on: Odd/even and bonanza consolation games
Canfor, province need to be held accountable
The finger pointing and “it’s not our fault” excuses from Canfor were as loud as a chainsaw from the outset of the company’s announcement that it was axing its pulp line at its Prince George Pulp and Paper Mill, along with the 300 jobs that come with it
It’s because of the closed sawmills in the Prince George area (Canfor’s choice), they said. It’s because of the reductions in the annual allowable cut (the B C government’s choice) and the difficulty getting “cost-competitive” fibre, they said
The “cost-competitive” part means fibre at a price where Canfor can still make a substantial profit.
Like their $211 5 million in earnings in the third quarter of 2022, the $644.3 million in earnings the quarter before that and the $839.9 million in earnings during the first three months of last year
As an industry analyst explained in a Glacier Media story last October about the crisis in the B C pulp sector, a lot of fibre gets left in the bush after logging because it’s cheaper to burn it than haul it out and take it to the nearest pulp mill
In other words, we’ve arrived at this week because of the greed and incompetence of the big forest companies and the provincial government more interested in milking every cent out of the sector on a month-to-month basis to bolster their revenues than on the long-term management and protection of this invaluable resource.
But the Canfor employees losing their jobs, the other people who will lose their jobs as a result of Canfor’s actions, their families, their friends and Prince George residents don’t have to take this lying down.
Clearly, the relationship Canfor and the
B C government have with Northern B C residents is a transactional one conducted through the dollars of wages and profits. Wages stay here and profits leave the community for the bank accounts of shareholders and Canfor’s majority shareholder is Jim Pattison
That being the case, why should the out-of-work employees give their severance cheques back to Pattison by shopping at the four Save-On-Foods stores in Prince George? Why should they listen to the two Pattison radio stations and watch the Pattison TV station?
Seeing as Canfor is closing the Prince George pulp line to protect Pattison’s bottom line, it’s time for Prince George residents to show their dissatisfaction by protecting their own bottom line and hitting Pattison’s pocketbook
Meanwhile, Premier David Eby and some of his cabinet ministers were in
Prince George this week for the Natural Resources Forum and a protest rally was scheduled for Tuesday night in Canada Games Plaza, at the same time Eby was inside the Civic Centre giving the keynote dinner speech
Hopefully the affected employees and their friends and families saw the show of support from local residents for our neighbours Political and industry leaders need to hear directly from the members of this community how dissatisfied they are and how change and action is needed, both now and in the future
The message is a simple one: the most valuable natural resource in Northern B.C. is not the trees, the oil and gas or the minerals, it’s the people who live, work and have made their homes here.
We’re long past telling them this core truth. Now’s the time to show them.
Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout
‘Inept, shady, unaccountable’ leadership to blame
With 300 fresh job losses in town, and many more behind the scenes, it’s time to ask who is running the forests. The megacorps are in the driving seat, of course, but where’s the political leadership?
The answer is there is none.
Sure, there is democratic accountability through the minister. On paper, at least. But there has been so many different forest ministers these past few years, I’m not sure who we can blame for the poor state of our forests, let alone the 50,000 forestry jobs we’ve lost in the past two decades, half the forest sector’s workforce.
If we could blame a minister, and we’ve had some doozies, I doubt a forestry scandal would ever sink a government Not even the jailing of a forest minister back in 1958 for corruption was enough to do that.
No matter how bad the megacorps
HE BACK
TORY MES STEIDLE
mismanage our forests they pretend to own, no matter how many logs they ship out of a community whose mills they closed, people from the Lower Mainland do not care And if by some miracle they did, the big urban electorate wouldn’t know where the horizon between reality and industry propaganda lies.
Our political leadership in Victoria can’t tell the difference either.
All they see is a politically powerless backwater for the taking, a hinterland to siphon resources from to keep the big city wheels turning, their beloved billionaire happy, and the hospital donations rolling in.
It is delusional to think our
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appli financier du gouvernement du Canada.
ever-changing cast of forest ministers and our disinterested big-city electorate and media are providing adequate oversight of our forests.
This leaves the real political power in the offices of appointed Victoria Ministry officials, and the Office of the Chief Forester in particular. And they run the show in concert with (or for?) the megacorps, which they are meant to regulate, with near complete impunity
We are told this is to keep forest management “professional” and non-political Really?
So why did the Office of the Chief Forester defy a ministerial guidance letter and maintain unsustainable harvest levels in the Boundary-Similkameen last year, a decision that benefited large corporations, not the flood-ravaged communities downstream?
Why is it that our previous chief forester is permitted to jump ship to become a vice president of a bioenergy megacorp,
MAILING ADDRESS
505 Fourth Ave. Prince George, B.C. V2L 3H2
OFFICE HOURS 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday
GENERAL SWITCHBOARD 250-562-2441 info@pgcitizen.ca
GENERAL NEWS news@pgcitizen.ca
SPORTS INQUIRIES 250-960-2764 sports@pgcitizen.ca
whose access to our already tapped-out forests she promoted while a public servant?
Why was Canfor allowed to shut down the Fort Nelson forest industry and hang on to their unused tenure for ten years?
Why are we told fire and pine beetles destroyed our forests yet the Office of the Chief Forester remains committed to sprayed monocrop plantation forestry to make these problems worse?
Our local forests are being pilfered, simplified and turned into fire-traps while our mills, wildlife and jobs disappear and this is happening under inept, shady, and unaccountable bureaucratic leadership
My advice to our new minister Bruce Ralston would be to give the locals - the regional districts, First Nations, and city councils - a bigger say over who is running the show, and more importantly, who the show is being run for
Because right now, it’s not us.
James Steidle is a Prince George writer
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
250-562-6666
cls@pgcitizen.ca
PUBLISHER 250-960-2757
carmstrong@pgcitizen.ca
READER SALES AND SERVICES
250-562-3301 rss@pgcitizen.ca
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@pgcitizen.ca
WEBSITE FEEDBACK digital@glaciermedia.ca
This newspaper is not packaging
Many newspapers across B C , including this one whose proud history goes back to 1916, will face significant hardship if the newspaper industry becomes required to pay fees levied by Recycle BC under the Province’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulation.
EPR levies fees on manufacturers and retailers for the packaging that wraps everything from the food we eat to the toys our kids play with. Any parent who has helped their child open a new toy knows that between the thick plastic that practically takes garden shears to open, the twist ties, and the cardboard, there is still way too much wasteful packaging associated with so many products
EPR has one laudable objective: Reduce packaging in the waste/recycling stream It does so by shifting the burden of recycling costs from taxpayers to producers
When producers must pay these fees, they innovate and find ways to wrap their products in far less packaging.
Since the advent of the blue bin,
newspapers have had the highest level of collection of all recyclable materials –more than plastics and even more than aluminum. Newspapers continue to be a valuable recovered resource in the recycling stream. They have a stable end market and high commercial value And recycling newspapers saves trees.
Newspapers have always been a public good – The dissemination of news to the public is a necessary element of a vibrant and healthy democracy and a well-functioning society Fake news – around COVID-19, elections, and many other issues – has highlighted the importance and value of credible news provided by trusted media sources Indeed, newspapers, have played and will continue to play an important role in educating the public on environmental issues, including recycling Newspapers allow the reader to pause, engage, and reflect – providing an important service that is not met through other media They also allow local small business to reach potential customers through advertising
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
DECADES IN MAKING
The mountain pine beetle epidemic led to last week’s announcement of Canfor closing the PG Pulp Mill
It’s a devastating impact on a community I called home from 1980 to 2004 I was president of the Northern Forest Products Association, which represented the interests of all the sawmills in the northern half of B C from the Alberta border to Terrace I was the key person on the mountain pine beetle file for the northern forest industry and fought to contain its spread and inform British Columbians, and those MPs in Ottawa, what was occurring and the consequences if swift action was not taken
Your readers should know that the mountain pine beetle has always been in our forests and always will be. It generally feeds off weaken or old lodgepole pine trees but its impact has always been controlled by very cold winters that kill 95 per cent of the beetle population. However, as winters warmed up in the late 90s the beetle found a foothold in Tweedsmuir park and its populations started to explode. The forest industry in and around Burns Lake to Smithers began sounding the alarm, as were the community leaders, that swift action was required The NFPA took up the fight in 1998 with a massive public awareness campaign in BC and numerous trips were made to visit MPs in Ottawa with detailed presentations to all three federal parties We had a simple but clear message: the mountain pine beetle would devastate B.C. interior forests and lead to eventual and massive shutdowns of lumber and pulp of operations in the interior. There is not one federal or provincial
Newspaper publishers are strongly supportive of the BC government’s objectives of reducing unnecessary packaging and waste. Unfortunately, the capture of newspaper in the regulation fails to recognize that newspaper is the product, not the packaging, and effectively subsidizes actual waste producers.
The name Recycle BC (RBC) may sound like a provincial agency. However, with a board dominated by actual waste packaging producers and retailers, it is anything but It has kept fees on plastic waste relatively constant, while jacking the fees for newspaper by as much as 80 per cent in a single year. Effectively, RBC is subsidizing plastic and other waste through fees charged to newspaper publishers
Given that newspapers are the product and not the packaging, we believe newspapers should be granted an exemption with an ongoing requirement for recyclers to collect newspaper The province already exempts books, so there is precedent for this. If a cheesy paperback romance novel is exempt, shouldn’t
newspapers, which provide a vital service to communities across British Columbia, also be exempt?
BC’s news publishers are responsible stewards We have moved to thinner paper and environmentally friendly inks to lower our footprint Driving up the cost of newspaper production with EPR fees drives down our editorial content as newspapers are forced to cut pages and, therefore, value to readers The knock-on effects are a loss of jobs, many of which are unionized in a sector that is already facing many external challenges, potential shuttering of newspapers, and a less informed citizenry.
We cannot have a misguided system that puts newspapers at risk at a time when the public needs trusted sources of information more than ever before Canada’s newspaper publishers applaud Ontario’s leadership in exempting newspapers, and we hope Premier David Eby’s government will do the same
Paul Deegan is President and Chief Executive Officer of News Media Canada
E-mail: letters@pgcitizen.ca
CLOSURE PREDICTED
politician from that time who could claim not to have known The NDP were in power then, and while Gordon Wilson, the then Minister of Forests, was equally concerned and supportive he could not convince his cabinet colleagues in Victoria to declare a state of emergency, even as the beetle was spreading from Tweedsmuir Park east and then south devastating all the lodgepole pine in its path British Columbians will also have forgotten that attempts to log the initial infestation in the park to avoid its spread was opposed vigorously by the entire environmental movement and the government. They somehow felt it was just nature at work and the park was somehow sacred and no serious logging in the park should be undertaken None was
What of course unfolded was a historic firestorm of beetles with immense populations that ravaged and killed over 85 per cent of the lodgepole pine forests in the interior, including young plantations, over the next 10 years
NFPA member attempts to speed up logging to contain the spread of the beetle were met with opposition from within government, thereby allowing the vast areas of healthy timber to be infested and die The loss of government revenue in terms of stumpage alone from that beetle killed timber would most likely today clear the provincial debt in B C and provide much needed health care funding to our interior communities
That’s what has been lost through inaction and I challenge any politician to say otherwise. Yes, portions of those dead forests were logged over the last 25 years but the fibre was not the same value and many areas simply died because the size
of the devastation was too great.
The NFPA carried out yearly ground surveys tracking the spread of the beetle infestation and reported those results to the MOF and the media. I did 30 to 40 speaking tours in B C and Ottawa and over 200 media interviews each year, from 1998 to 2003, pleading for governments to relax the regulations to allow faster access to infested areas But those requests were never taken seriously or rejected until it was much too late And by then the newly elected Liberal government view was that the epidemic was so large that nothing could be done to halt it. That was indeed true. The epidemic finally did collapse after all the food source, the lodgepole pine, was killed.
It took 15 to 24 years to begin to feel the full effects of the epidemic but those effects, namely closure of interior mills due to a lack of timber have occurred, with PG Pulp being one of the latest casualties. Regrettably, there will be more closures in the years ahead as the fibre supply shortages continue and the high cost of extraction in B C increases
To the best of my knowledge, there has been no comprehensive strategy implemented to address the epidemic and its fallout in 24 years Today, other than helping displaced workers, the only thing the province can and should do is to implement an aggressive reforestation program to bring back those beetle decimated areas as quickly as possible to provide a future for a renewable, high paying industry that produces environmentally friendly building products and generates quality jobs for young families Greg Jadrzyk, Former President, Northern Forest Products Association (NFPA)
I am a little surprised about how some Prince George residents are expressing shock over the Canfor Pulp Mill closure.
It was predicted at least 30 years ago.
People in the forestry industry both private and government were saying that the pine beetle was going to devastate the pine forest and the industry
It was estimated that 2-4 billion pine trees would be lost, and only half would be salvageable.
The prediction that Prince George would lose a pulp mill was easy to make and was publicly made The prediction has come true in 2023.
Why the surprise today?
The alarm bells that were rung 30 years ago have been partially forgotten about One of the reasons for the memory failure was the suppression of free speech From my recollections the government put a gag order on government forestry officials to not talk about the pine beetle crisis. The predictions were so bad that the government did not want the alarm bells to be heard
So where we are today under leftist governments where free speech is under attack not just for government employees but individuals as well is not a surprise
We had 30 years to get the government to properly plan and adjust rural economies for a devastated industry What has been done besides restricting free speech? Not much
The surprise is that Canadians are allowing free speech to be under attack It has devastating consequences.
Wayne Martineau, Fraser Lake
Drug trafficker issued prison sentence
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A Mackenzie man has been sentenced to two years and four months in federal prison for possessing opioids and methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking.
Michael Kenneth Robert Matson, 35, was issued the term in relation to a seizure on October 25, 2019 of 30.9 grams of heroin-fentanyl and 64 1 grams of methamphetamine from the 221 Crysdale Drive home in Mackenzie where he had been living
Police also seized 2 5 grams of cocaine for which Matson was charged with simple possession
Crown counsel had been seeking as much as two years and 10 months in jail while defence counsel argued for a conditional sentence order - effectively house arrest
In issuing his decision, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Ron Tindale found that Matson lacked the “exceptional circumstances” that would have warranted a sentence of less than two years and a day, thus making a conditional sentence order out of the question
He also noted that Matson has a criminal record that includes numerous breaches and was on probation at the time the drugs were seized. In March 2019, he had been sentenced to 18 months probation on a count of possessing a controlled substance And the amounts seized were large, Tindale found.
As such, he said denunciation and deterrence were the primary considerations on sentencing
But he did provide Matson with a “considerable discount” for the efforts he has made since then to turn his life around
They have included gaining employment, remaining sober and getting counselling and treatment for addiction
Matson “has done a lot of work toward his rehabilitation ”
Tindale also accepted that Matson is genuinely remorseful for his actions and was selling the drugs to support his habit as opposed to simply make money.
Meanwhile, the director continues to seek a court order to have the Crysdale Drive property forfeited to the provincial government. A notice of claim seeking the order was filed in August 2022 and remains before the court
Hockey suspension challenged in court
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
to the BCAHA’s minimum suspension guidelines for a gross misconduct
The parents of a Prince George hockey player are taking the B.C. Amateur Hockey Association to court, saying their son’s five-game suspension was meted out in an “unjust manner.”
According to a petition filed at the Prince George courthouse, the 16-yearold player was on the ice when his team scored its fifth goal during a Prince George Minor Hockey Association under18 game on Dec 20
He celebrated the goal and then, while passing by the team benches for a line change, an opponent called him a “fat, f---- retard ” The player responded by gesturing back with his middle finger without removing his glove
The player was immediately ejected for gross misconduct.
He exited the game as directed and did not “make any further directions, argue with the official or say anything as he left the game,” the player’s father, Dwayne Pommer, a Prince George lawyer, says in the petition
The referee who issued the ejection subsequently filed an incident report to the BCAHA (also known as BC Hockey) and, later that evening, the player was suspended for five games - one game for being penalized in the final 10 minutes of the contest and another four pursuant
Ten days later, Pommer submitted a notice of application for appeal to the BCAHA, contending the suspension was done in an “unjust manner and should be reversed ”
In a letter accompanying the notice of appeal, Pommer says his son should have been given a 10-minute misconduct penalty and nothing more maintaining that the gesture did not constitute a gross misconduct as spelled out in the Hockey Canada playing rules
“Granting this appeal will not prevent BC Hockey from suspending (my son) for the incident, if you feel it is warranted. This appeal is just requesting that you do so in a fair manner. You should ask some questions and review the evidence before you make a decision,” Pommer says in the notice, included in a package of documents filed along with the petition
On Jan. 6, BCAHA’s appeal committee chair issued a “summary decision” in which he concludes that because the suspension was issued under the minimum suspension guidelines it cannot be appealed.
Pommer maintains the decision was carried out in a manner that contravened BCAHA’s society bylaws
Filing of a formal response to the petition remains pending and the allegations have not yet been tested in court
Healthy North y
Respiratory illness season is here
Northern Health is working hard to keep Northerners healthy and safe.
You may still wonder what tools you have to protect yourself during respiratory illness season.
Over the past few years, we’ve learned what helps keep us healthy These tips help us to find balance and prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses like the flu and COVID-19.
You can play an important role in supporting the health care system in the North by:
• getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19
• staying home when sick, and
• following public health guidance
Visit northernhealth.ca for full details about booster opportunities for ages 5 years and up, as well as info on the Flu Shot.
Do you know about the Northern Health Virtual Clinic?
The Northern Health Virtual Clinic is open and available to help you, 7 days a week. Whether you need medical help after hours, or you don’t have a family doctor, you can get the help you need from the Virtual Clinic.
Call 1-844-645-7811 to speak to a family doctor or nurse practitioner by phone or video. Find out more on our website: northernhealth.ca/locations/medical-clinics/virtual-clinic
COVID-19 Clinic information for Prince George
Ages 5+
When: 7 days per week (10 am to 3:40 pm)
Where: Prince George COVID-19 Testing and Immunization Centre, 175-1600 15th Ave
Details: By appointment, limited availability. In the Parkwood Mall beside the movie theatre, free parking on site. Register and book through the Get Vaccinated system or call 1-833-838-2323.
For people 12 and older you can also receive your vaccine at a local pharmacy: Register and book through the province’s Get Vaccinated system. Visit the BC Pharmacy Association for more information.
Not registered? Register online at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca/s/ or by phone at 1-833-838-2323.
HOROSCOPES & PUZZLES
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
You won’t always know how to conduct yourself in a crowd. Your boss, clients or colleagues at work will be ambiguous and unclear about their intentions.
TAURUS
You’ll become eligible for a big promotion at work. But, before accepting the new role, it would be wise to talk to your significant other and family to avoid a misunderstanding.
GEMINI
The winter blues are setting in, and you’re starting to feel down. Booking a warm holiday is only a few steps away. On the other hand, you’ll be energized by your zest for life.
CANCER
You’ll feel particularly sensitive this week. Your emotions may play a few tricks on you. You’ll shed light on a scandalous story at work or within your family.
LEO
You must sharpen your negotiating skills in your professional and personal life. You have what it takes to reach a lasting agreement that significantly impacts your career
VIRGO
You’ll be in the spotlight this week, which will be fun. You may receive a reward. You may also celebrate getting a promotion at work.
LIBRA
double benefit, and you’ll regain your vitality You may accomplish something big.
SCORPIO
After the holidays, you may feel as if your house has been turned upside down, and you’ll be in a hurry to tidy up. You’ll declutter your home, which will also clear your mind.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll speak your mind and say out loud what others are thinking. You may also be the inspiration for a poem or quote that spreads worldwide.
CAPRICORN
you’ll feel like yourself again.
AQUARIUS
Now is the time to act. Those close to you will successfully invite you on several outings and get you out of the house. You may be convinced to join a group fitness class, for example.
PISCES
You’ll need a second cup of coffee in the morning to find your energy and stop procrastinating. Then, you’ll be highly efficient in carrying out new projects and cross many items off your to-do list.
If you haven’t been feeling well, take some time to rest. Fortunately, your sleep will have a
You’ll be concerned about your financial situation. You’ll feel anxious because of a misunderstanding, such as a bill that wasn’t meant for you. Once the problem is sorted,
HOW TO PLAY:
Fill
cl assi fi eds
LESLIE WOODLEY 2x30.5 PGC002585
WOODLEY,JohnA.
February22,1951-December19,2022
Withgreatsorrow,weannouncethepassingofJohnon December19,2022.Hepassedpeacefullywithhiswife byhissideafteralongcourageousbattlewithcancer.
IND,Dianne
August16,1942-December14,2022
Belovedwife,motherandNana.Itiswithgreatsadness andmuchlovethatthefamilyofDianneIndannounces herpassingonDecember14,2022.
Shewasakindandgenuinesoulwhospreadher infectioushumourandjoywherevershewent.Sheloved contributingtohersmallcommunityofMackenzie. Throughherlongcareerasadedicatedsubstitute teacher,tohercoachingofyouthbowlingand,more recently,SpecialOlympicsbowlingandhermanyother endeavourswithinthecommunity.Shewillbedearly missedbyherhusband,Alf;childrenMary-Jane,Donald (Rob),Janet(Scott)andJanice(Howard);grandchildren Michael(Bonnie),Dawn,Nova(Monica)andAbbigaeland siblingsMyrna,Wendy(Ken),LindaandDonald(Terry); aswellasmanyotherfamilymembers.
REMEMBRANCES
Ken Goss 1950 - 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ken Goss on January 6, 2023 at the Rotary Hospice House. Left to mourn the loss and celebrate the life of this remarkable man is his devoted wife Darlene, son Andrew (Crystal), grandson Keenan (Kassie), brother Al (Phyllis), brother-in-law Clint, nieces Penny & Trina & a multitude of friends.
Ken was a warm tremendously giving and fun loving man. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family. He will be missed greatly. Heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at UNBC and the Hospice staff who took such good care of him. Special thanks to Dr. Zafar Iqbal.
There will be a celebration of life January 22 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the PG Hospice Society or Spirit of the North in Ken’s name.
1960-2023
Born January 8, 1960 in Prince George, BC, passed away January 13, 2023 at the age of 63 in Kelowna General Hospital after a quiet and courageous battle with cancer.
He leaves to mourn, his beloved wife Corinne, sons Eric, Lloyd III, Clarke, and Stepdaughter Emily; sister Leah (Kevin), and brother Lloyd (Vicki) ; aunts, an uncle, and many cousins.
Carl is predeceased by his parents, Maryella and Lloyd Larsen of Prince George BC.
Carl graduated from PGSS in 1978 and later attended BCIT and worked in process technology in the lower mainland, before finally settling in Kelowna in 2003, where he realized a dream of building an equestrian centre.
Since the time he could walk, Carl had a strong bond with all the animals around our place, but he had a very special understanding of horses - and horses seemed to understand him. This led to him competing in equestrian events in Saddle Club gymkhanas, horse shows, and Fairs, by the age of six. He trained and competed in equestrian events for over 50 years in BC and California, until recently.
His dedication to family was always unwavering and supportive, be it as a husband, as a dad taking kids to games and 5am rep league practices, making a place to stay (and breakfast) for travellers, as a caregiver, as a brother, uncle, nephew and cousin - Carl always cared, and kept touch with many in a large family.
Family, friends, and competitors alike, will all miss his gentle voice, quiet and brilliant wit, obscure and funny songs, great sportsmanship, encouragement, and steadfast love and friendship. He is among the angels.
A service will be held in spring, and notification will be made in the coming weeks as to the time and location. Many thanks to the ICU staff, volunteers, and doctors at Kelowna General Hospital for their remarkable efforts, care and compassion for Carl and our family members.
Carl Robert Larsen
REMEMBRANCES
One Final Gift
Scatter me not to restless winds, Nor toss my ashes to the sea.
Remember now those years gone by When loving gifts I gave to thee.
Remember now the happy times
The family ties we shared.
Don’t leave my resting place unmarked
As though you never cared.
Deny me not one final gift For all who come to see A single lasting proof that says I loved... & you loved me.
by DJ Kramer
Joan Maureen Davies
1932-2022
The family of Joan Maureen Davies (nee Kingsbury) is sad to announce that she passed away on December 29, 2022 at the Shuswap Lake General Hospital at 90 years of age.
Born in Peace River, Alberta on July 27, 1932, Joan attended King Edward High School in Vancouver, and then graduated from the first UBC Nursing Program. She worked at Vancouver General Hospital until she and Bob were married in 1955. Their honeymoon at Sun Valley was the beginning of a life of skiing together.
Along with raising five busy children, Joan taught swimming lessons and Aquafit at the Four Seasons Pool in Prince George. Joan was instrumental in developing the Adapted Aquatic program, receiving an Outstanding Community Service Award from the City of Prince George in 1993. Retiring to Sicamous in 1994, Joan and Bob enjoyed spending time on their boat the U ‘n Me. Joan continued to teach swimming and Aquafit classes at the pool in Salmon Arm.
The opportunity for fitness and the camaraderie that dragon boating offered was another huge part of Joan’s life. The Shuswap Silver Dragons travelled to the 55+ BC Games in Richmond in 2009, winning a bronze medal.
Joan is survived by her five children, Patti (Tony), Robyn, Howard (Joan), Shelley (John) and Jayson. She will be remembered by her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Thank you to the wonderful staff at the Lakeside Manor in Salmon Arm. The family also appreciated the considerate care provided by Dr. Jeremy Swatzky-Martens.
A family gathering to honour Joan and Bob will be held during the summer of 2023 at Silver Star Mountain.
Farewell my dear children
My life has passed. I dearly loved you to the last, Weep not for me, Nor sorrow take But love each other for my sake.
Let us help you through your loss, share your loved one’s memory. Call us at 250.562.6666 or
Elizabeth (Betty) Gilchrist
1940 - 2022
Betty’s life and story…
Betty grew up in Nelson, BC where she was loved and spoiled by her parents Violet and Walter Duckworth, brother Jim (Denise) and a large tight knit family. She shared many stories including candy filled visits with her Grandmother, “Mrs. Mac” and cherished Aunt Mary, her embarrassment when their family dog Jet would always follow her to school, and the regimented Catholic meal of “Fish on Fridays”. Betty enjoyed many days on the golf course as her father insisted she enjoy her youth either playing golf or spending time at their Camp out on Kootenay Lake.
Betty graduated from UBC with a degree in Education and played on the university golf team. Her first real job was a teaching position in the remote beautiful town of Ocean Falls, where she would meet the love of her life, Bruce Gilchrist. Bruce welcomed Betty into his large family - 8 siblings - and friends, the outdoors through boating and fishing, and the camaraderie and craziness of living in an isolated mill town. Those connections continued throughout Betty’s life and were rekindled at numerous Ocean Falls Reunions and Gilchrist Family Reunions in fabulous holiday places and cruises.
Betty and Bruce had two daughters - Leslie (John) born in Prince Rupert, and Christine born in Prince George. Betty insisted on giving her children a faith-filled foundation through catechism lessons, an understanding of charitable service by having them assist her in delivering Meals on Wheels as young kids, and an understanding of commitment through her volunteer involvements with the Hospital Auxiliary, Diabetic daycare in the hospital, and the Rainbows program. Both daughters have the legacy of Betty’s ability to cook for a crowd and entertain with flair as she demonstrated countless times - if they could only read her handwriting!!!
Betty warmly recalled her life on the farm in Prince George and her abundant garden - shared with family and friends who often visited. She enjoyed all the animals, fresh eggs, the mess of harvested honey, the spectacle of a new colt born and raised, cats and dogs - all making life special. Betty and Bruce enjoyed boating on the West Coast on the “Chris-Les” for 15 years - where Betty would meticulously plan supplies for meals needed for the remote BC places they would anchor. They enjoyed freshly caught seafood daily with many folks they met at wharfs during impromptu Happy Hours! Betty and Bruce spent many years enjoying the Kispiox valley and the welcoming farming community there - perfect place for Spring and Fall colors, and the peace of the river.
Betty’s life in Nanaimo commenced upon Bruce’s passing, where she and daughter Christine explored the Island on frequent jaunts and spent every day in each other’s company. Betty will be missed but her legacy of kindness for animals and love for her family will remain forever. Private burial in Nanaimo, BC early January 2023.
In loving memory of Howard John Lloyd
March 16, 1930 - December 27, 2022
It is with sadness we announc of Howard Lloyd, in Nanaim December 27, 2022.
Howard leaves behind his l wife Margaret ’ and their child Gail Corrigal, Wanda (Ed) Tur Grant (Darleen) Pilon, Lor (Debbie) Lloyd, Judy (Ca Hyde, Guy (Penny) Pilon H was predeceased by his wi Helen (1979), son Gar y, son in-law Neil, and many sibling Howard had 15 grandchildre that he adored (the feelin was mutual), and 31 gre grandchildren
Howard was born in Tur tle Saskatchewan in 1930, 4th family of 12 children His famil to B C when he was 10, and Prince George, B.C. for almost Howard loved ever ything outdoors Hunting, fishing, logging, boating, etc. He was a proud 65
r of the PG Elks He ran Howard gging for many years He was a unsellor/ Regional Director for 1972-75), and also was an MLA the For t George Riding (1975). After that; he tried his hand at ay farming in Beaverley ’ until he etired in the 1990s He enjoyed his cabin at Bednesti Lake, ravelling to visit friends and amily and eventually moved to Nanaimo, B.C., a few years ago. He especially enjoyed being husband, father, grandpa, other and friend to many Celebration of Life may be ounced later
Condolences may be left nd information found at rgreencremationcentre.com
JENNIFER CHERMESNOK
2x112.8
PGC002584
KARLSON,EskoTapio September2,1926-December11,2022
Itiswithheavyheartsthatweannouncethepassingof ourbelovedhusband,father,grandfather,andgreatgrandfather.EskowasborninElma,Manitoba.Hewas thefirstoftheKarlsonchildrentobeborninCanadaafter hisfamilymovedfromFinlandin1925.Thefamilylivedin Manitobauntil1929,whentheymovedtoDeadwood, Alberta.WhenEskowas18yearsoldhefiledonand openeduphisquartersectionofland.Thisandtheloveof familyhadkepthimtetheredtothePeaceRiverCountry allhislife.HisonlyremainingsisterVioletlivesin Saskatchewan.Hehasanumberofniecesandnephews andextendedfamilyscatteredacrosstheprairies.
EskometBenitain1950,andtheyweremarriedin January1952.TheylivedonthefarminnorthernAlberta forseveralyears.ThisiswhereLarry,Wayne,andDianne wereborn.
Wantingtodobetterforhisgrowingfamily,Eskoheaded toBCtoworkandsettledinPrinceGeorgein1957.He boughtsomepropertyintheHartandbuiltasmallhouse. Heloadedtiesforacoupleofyearsbuttheworkwasnot thatsteady,soheboughtachainsawandworkedfalling trees.LeonardandLauriewereborninPG.Esko continuedtorunasawforover30yearsinthearea.
Eskowasawonderfulhusband,father,andgrandfather. Healwayshadtimetospendwithhisfamily.Therewere manyroadtripsskiingandexploringBC,Alberta,the YukonandNorthwestTerritories.Intheirlateryears, BenitaandEskotravelledtoothercountriesandevenmet hisextendedfamilyinFinland.
Helovedtoplayhorseshoesandcompetedin tournamentsalloverwesternCanada.Inthewinter,he lovedtobowlandplaycardswithfriends.
Hisnaturalcuriosityandzestforlifekepthimyoungfor allhis96years.Hehadsuchapositiveeffectonallhis children,grandchildren,extendedfamily,andprettymuch anyonewhoknewhimasafriend.Wewillmisshiskind heart,twinklingblueeyes,genuinesmile,andquietFinn humour.Heissurvivedbyhiswife,threechildren,ten grandchildren,andfifteengreat-grandchildren.
AmemorialwillbeheldattheHartPioneerCentreon Saturday,January28,from1-3pm.
Anadditionalgatheringwillbeheldlaterthissummerin Deadwood,AB.
Stanley Gerald Domansky 1940-2023
It is with great sadness that the family of Stanley Gerald Domansky announce his passing on January 7, 2023 at the age of 82 in Prince George, BC
Stan was diagnosed in July 2022 with stage four cancer. He fought valiantly until he could no more, passing on Ukrainian Christmas with his daughters by his side.
Stan will be lovingly remembered by his daughters Vicki and Cindy (Corrigan), son in law Brian (Corrigan), sister Olga (Kwiatkowski) and numerous nieces and nephews and other family.
Stan was predeceased by his wife Joy, his parents Katherine and Stephen, and his siblings Erakie (Olson), Karl, Edward, Joseph, Elizabeth and Lily.
Stan was born in Sandy Lake, Manitoba, and spent his early years working on the farm. His ambitions led him to become a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 1959, being the first member to ever come from Sandy Lake.
Stan did his RCMP training in Ottawa, Ontario, where he met and married his wife Joy.
“Stan the Man” transferred to British Columbia, being stationed in numerous places in the Vancouver/Lower Mainland area. Stan thrived as an RCMP member, being involved in many large, high profile cases. He joined the Vancouver Drug Squad, and was instrumental in bringing down the “Czech Connection” drug cartel in 1977. For his contributions in breaking up this international drug ring, Stan was awarded the RCMP Commissioner’s Commendation, the highest internal award in the RCMP.
Stan and his family then transferred to Quesnel, BC for two years, and finished his RCMP career in Prince George, BC, both heading up the General Investigation Section and as a Watch Commander. He was very proud to have been a Mountie.
In 1981, Stan retired from the RCMP as a Staff Sergeant to join the BC Tel security department as head of the Northern Division, where he worked for another 20 years before retiring completely. Stan was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoor enthusiast. He enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, and ATV’ing with his family and friends. He’d always have a drink ready for any visitors.
While he was a “no nonsense” man, Stan was fiercely dedicated to his family. He was a loving father and husband, caring for his wife Joy when she fell ill, and making sure his daughters were always taken care of.
As per Stan’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. If desired, donations could be made in his name to the Prince George Hospice House.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Liam Higgins, for his compassion and understanding; to UNHBC ER, ICU, and surgical departments for their care; to Dr. Miller for her guidance regarding Dad’s disease, and finally to the Prince George Hospice House for his end of life care.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lakewoodfh.com for the Domansky family.
LOK, Fetje (Nettie)
July 20, 1933January 12, 2023
Early on the morning of January 12, 2023, our Mom, grandma, Oma, & Sister went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior. She was a bright light to all who had the chance to know her.
Fetje Bakker was born in Parrega, The Netherlands. She was a sister to 6 brothers and 2 sisters. A child of World War 2, she learned to persevere and always make the most of any situation. One of her most favorite sayings was “I need to try to my utmost!”
Fetje came to Canada on her own at the age of 21, looking for work for her brothers. She met her soon to be husband while disembarking in Victoria. During the immigration process her name was changed to Nettie. Our mom and dad loved each other very much and were married November 1st, 1956. They had three daughters and one son. We spent many years moving around BC. Mom could make anywhere home. We have fond memories of camping all over North America. Sadly her soulmate passed away 3 weeks after moving to Prince George in 2016.
Cooking was not her forte that was a job for our dad. Mom was an amazing seamstress, knitter and loved to crochet. Most of her granddaughters have had their grad dresses expertly designed and made by her. All of the grandchildren and great grandchildren have socks, slippers and pajamas made by her hand.
Mom loved her family, she had 15 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren, including a little girl born January 7, 2023. The” littles” were the light of her life. They have many great memories of singing “I’m a Little Teapot”, “Jesus loves me” and some Dutch favorites. Going for treats at DQ were always on the list to do.
Moms last few years were spent in Prince George. With still some camping and many visits with family. In 2019, Mom went to The Netherlands one last time with her 4 children and some of her grandchildren, we had the time of our life with her.
She is now reunited with our Dad and her granddaughter, Rani, who she has deeply missed. Mom is survived and will be forever missed by daughter Tina Lok and her children - Kristine, Jeffrey & Danielle (Jackson, Oliver); daughter Aillen Timmer (Gary) and their children - Carl & Michelle (Paige, Rylan, Jace), Cheryl-Lynn & Nathan, (Lexa, Link), Mandy & Curtis (Emmerson, Tate, Addison, Lok), Britney & Tom (Easton, Oliver, Willa), Jacklyn, Xavier, Orion, Harley; daughter Joanne Huisman (Ron) and their children - Kayla & Nathan (Caelum, Willem) Jordan, Kyle; son Gary & Elisa and their children - Bryson, Kassandra; sister Tine; brothers Art, John and Hans, and many other family and friends.
We would like to give special thanks to her very special friend Rosanne, you made our mom so happy ever time you walked through the door! Also thankyou to the hard working paramedics who gave mom a few rides, the staff on FMU, you are amazing. And the staff and residents at Laurier Manor, you welcomed mom with open arms and gave her a home where she was safe. The hospice house, where angels work, thank you for treating our mom like a lady.
Please consider donating to the Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society on Moms behalf. https://pghpcs.ca/support.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St Giles Presbyterian Church on Friday, January 20th @ 1:30.
A Life Lived
IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES
by Norma Cornett Marek
If I knew it would be the last time That I’d see you fall asleep, I would tuck you in more tightly And pray the Lord, your soul to keep.
If I knew it would be the last time that I see you walk out the door, I would give you a hug and kiss And call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time I’d hear your voice lifted up in praise, I would video tape each action and word, so I could play them back day after day.
If I knew it would be the last time, I could spare an extra minute
To stop and say “I love you,” Instead of assuming you would KNOW I do.
If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day, Well I’m sure you’ll have so many more, so I can let just this one slip away.
And certainly there’s another chance To say our “Anything I can do?”
But just in case I might be wrong, And today is all I get, I’d like to say how much I love you And I hope we never forget.
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, Young or old alike, And today may be the last chance You get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you’re waiting for tomorrow, Why not do it today? For if tomorrow never comes, You’ll surely regret the day,
That you didn’t take that extra time For a smile, a hug, or a kiss
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Established Franchise Photography Business
Serving Northern B.C for over 35 years
Gross Revenues of $150.000 plus annually from seasonal work Lots of opportunity to expand the business. Transition support available to the right buyer
Serious Enquiries Only
Office 250-596-9199 Cell 250-981-1472
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Established Franchise Tax Preparation BusinessMackenzieservicing and McLeod Lake area for over 30 years.
Gross Revenues of $85,000 to $90,000 Annually and Potential to expand revenues in a growing economy.
Transition support available for the right buyer.
Serious Inquires Only
(250)997-9003
(250)997-5538
(250)990-0152
For surely there’s always tomorrow To make up for an oversight, And we always get a second chance To make everything just right.
There will always be another day To say “I love you,”
And you were too busy to grant someone, What turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, And whisper in their ear, Tell them how much you love them And that you’ll always hold them dear
Take time to say “I’m sorry,”
“Please forgive me,” “Thank you,” or “It’s okay.” And if tomorrow never comes, You’ll have no regrets about today.
Applications now being accepted! January 6, 2023 - February 21, 2023
w w.pgcf.ca/funding-programs
4
Skilled Help
The Prince George Citizen is looking for a freelance photographer. Interested candidates please email lsmith@glaciermedia.ca along with some samples of your best photos.
Trucking & Transport
Experienced gravel truck driver required in PG area (250) 614-6667
Services for Hire
FREE REMOVAL of unwanted cars, trucks or equipment. Call George (250) 614-8915
Job Type: Full Time “Northstar” Ice Plant Operation
Position Open January 1, 2023
Hours: Monday – Friday (40 hours per week)
OT and Weekend work seasonally Hourly Rate: Based on Qualifications and Experience
Canadian Fishing Company is the largest fishing company in B.C.
Responsibilities:
• Ice making, ice storage, ice delivery and maintenance engineer on an Ammonia refrigeration system
• Other maintenance work as required Requirements:
• 4th Class or better Operating Engineer Certificate valid in B C
• Training will be provided for successful candidates with less qualifications
• The applicant should have maintenance experience
To apply contact Terry Armstrong at terry.armstrong@canfisco.com Cell: 778-884-9442
Antiques
Art & Collectibles
A LOT Of 45 & LPs. All kinds $5$40 each, 778-675-4716
BUYING ALL SILVER! WANTED 9999 BULLION, BARS, COINS, ROUNDS, ALL SILVER COINS, PRE 1968 COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, FRANKLIN MINT SETS, OLD STERLING SILVER, COIN COLLECTIONS +++ ALSO BUYING GOLD!!! TODD 25O 864 3521
Mills/Equipment
1998 KENWORTH with mixer trailer, white. $120,000. 617-3373
SAWMILL, 48” head rig, hand set, completely rebuilt, $8000 obo plus parts. 250-441-3242
Sheds/Outbuildings
NEW 30’ x 50’ All Steel Commercial shop, never assembled, c/w complete set of drawings and engineer cert. Has straight outside walls, 1 12’ x 14’ service door opening, 1 3’ man door opening, inside clearance 16’, roof has 3/ 12 pitch that is 20’ high at peak. Outside wall cladding painted tan. $30, 000 Call Bob 250-983-3372
Wanted
AVON COLLECTIBLES, Valued $3600, asking $1500. 250-6171934 Antique Superb Dutch drop front Secretary, 140 years old, in excellent condition, $6500. 250-964-3794 Prince George
COLLECTOR PURCHASING COINS & COIN COLLECTIONS! BUYING OLD COINS, ROLLS OF COINS, BANK BAGS OF COINS, RARE COINS, COLLECTOR COINS, OLYMPIC COINS, OLD PAPER MONEY, PRE 1968 COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, US MINT, COLLECTIONS +. WANTED CANADA, USA & WORLD COLLECTIONS! Todd’s Coins 1-250-8643521
Firewood
BIRCH Firewood in 20 foot lengths. Delivered by dumptruck load. $1100. or bucked to length $1300 per load delivered 250614-6667
BUYING OLD JEWELRY, COINS, OLD MONEY, COIN COLLECTIONS, 9999 BARS & COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, COIN SETS, WORLD $$$ COLLECTIONS ++ TODD 25O 864 3521
WANTED SASQUATCH SKULL - Also purchasing SILVER & GOLD coins, bars, jewelry, scrap, nuggets, sterling, 999+ BULLION, maple leafs, bulk silver, pre-1969 coins. Coin collector BUYING ENTIRE COIN COLLECTIONS, old $ & Royal Canadian Mint coins. TODD 250-864-3521.
2006 DODGE Cummins diesel, 4x4, 4 dr, Lb, auto, 2 owner, receipts since new, no accidents, 107K, $27,900 obo. 596-5434
1998 FORD F250 Diesel w/ plow. Exc. cond. $10,000. 250-3980720
1977 FORD 1 ton, renovated, $2500. 250-306-2292
Legal/Public Notices
Between, ROB HANDBY or anyone related, with a mobile home MHR#35923, at #32 - 1720 Prince George Pulpmill Road, Prince George V2K 5P2 and Spruce Capital Trailer Park Ltd., 766 69th Ave. W, Vancouver, B.C. V6P 2W3 (778-386-8036). I, Spruce Capital Trailer Park Ltd., will dispose of the abovementioned mobile home unless the person being notified takes possession of the property establishes a right of possession of it within 30 days from the date the notice is served on that person
Sports & Imports
250-612-9321
Forest Stewardship Plan Amendment
AMENDMENT REQUIRING APPROVAL
2017 FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN (FSP 2) Prince George & Stuart Nechako Natural Resource Districts
Canadian Forest Products Ltd. (Canfor), Carrier Lumber Ltd., Takla Track & Timber Ltd., Hampton Lumber (Fort St. James Forest Products General Partner Ltd.), Dunkley Lumber Ltd. and Pacific Bioenergy have prepared an Amendment Requiring Approval (ARA) to their joint Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) for operations in the Prince George and Stuart Nechako Natural Resource Districts. The Amendment is available for public review starting on January 19, 2023.
Amendment ARA-013 is required to amend the Forest Development Unit associated with First Nations Woodlands License N2E, reflecting its recently approved expansion. This amendment will also update FSP Section 5.2.3 related to the application of the Provincial Non-Spatial Old Growth Order to the N2E Forest Development Unit.
In accordance with the Forest Planning and Practices Regulation, Amendment ARA-013 is available for public review and comment from January 19th to February 21, 2023 at the following locations during regular office hours (8:00 am to 4:00 pm):
Canadian Forest Products Ltd: 5162 Northwood Pulpmill Road, P.O. Box 9000, Prince George BC, V2L 4W2; Phone: (250) 962-3343
Representatives will be available to discuss the proposed amendment and to receive comment(s)
If an interested party is unable to review the Amendment (ARA-013) during regular business hours, please contact us by phone or in writing to arrange a suitable time
PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE
ACROSS
1. Not invited 6. Whale ship captain 10. One point south of southwest
14. Small cavity in a rock
15. Recidivists
17. City of Angels hoopster
19. A way to mark with one’s signature
20. OJ trial judge
21. Rice cooked in broth
22. One point east of due south
23. One point east of southeast
1. Green and yellow citrus fruit
2. A
24. Complements an entree
26. Grouped by twos
29. Disfigure 31. Woods
32. Political action committee 34. Longer of 2 bones in the forearm
35. Kin groups 37. Philippine Island
Contrary to
Bluish-gray fur 40. Comprehend the written word 41. Natural depressions
Cover the entirety of
Felines
Breathe noisily
53. Have surgery 57. Formal withdrawal
58. Monetary units of Peru
61. High points
Taxi
47. Pancake made from buckwheat flour
49. Swiss river
50. Foot (Latin)
59. Greek war god 60. 2,000 lbs.
bright color
South Dakota
Kids’ favorite visitor
C. China mountain range
Type of sandwich
Team
Paddle
44. Blood group 46. Broadway songwriter Sammy
Dutch colonist 48. Full-grown pike fish
Deity of a monotheistic cult
Type of bread
S. Nigerian people
Scottish tax
Young women’s association
Brazilian city
Hide of a young animal
Midway between north and northeast
A short guide to storm doors
Storm doors provide an added layer of protection and insulation to your home
They also help circulate air during the summer when paired with a screen Here’s what to consider before buying a storm door.
1 Size Storm doors come in various standard sizes, including 32, 34 and 36 inches Before buying one, measure the opening between the door jambs, not the door itself
2. Frames. There are three main frame styles for storm doors: full-view, midview and high-view Full-view storm doors feature a full-length glass panel that covers the entire door This feature is ideal for showing off your home’s entry and letting in natural light
The glass panel on mid-view storm doors covers most of the door but
stops about 45 centimetres from the bottom This style is perfect for entries you use daily, as the bottom kick plate protects the door from damage.
Finally, high-view storm doors feature a small window at the top and a large bottom panel This style offers enhanced reinforcement and is most suitable for areas prone to high winds
3. Material. Storm doors are typically made of steel, vinyl or aluminum. Steel doors are dent-resistant, rot-resistant and warp-resistant, while aluminum ones are affordable and lightweight Vinyl is another excellent choice because it’s durable and comes in various colours
Finally, you can also choose screen types, including ones that are retractable or entirely interchangeable. Visit your local home improvement store to find the right storm door for your home
If you have a smart speaker in your home, you may already benefit from hands-free technology while you cook You can use voice commands to set a timer or listen to an online recipe Today, there are plenty of touch-free appliances that promise to optimize hygiene while increasing efficiency in the kitchen
SENSOR LIGHTS
Indoor motion detector lighting offers the same convenience and security as the lights you install on your home’s exterior In the kitchen, you have the added benefit of keeping messy hands off of light switches The automatic shut-off feature saves energy, too
FAUCETS
Touchless faucets are available in various styles, finishes and price points. Some even have voice control to let you adjust water volume and temperature
Touchless appliances for the kitchen
DISHWASHERS
Hands-free dishwashers come with doors that you knock to open They include safety features to prevent accidental activation when a person or pet bumps into it
REFRIGERATORS
Handleless refrigerators open with the touch of a knee or elbow Since current models are built-ins, you must hire a professional to install them
CABINETS
The classic touch-latch cabinet door is a simple hands-free solution you can install yourself Get a professional to build a sophisticated electronic cabinet closure system for a more high-tech approach
Get in touch with a local contractor to ensure your new appliances are installed and working correctly
Trend: outdoor pizza ovens
Does the smell of pizza cooking make your mouth water? You may be interested in an outdoor pizza oven if you enjoy using your barbecue all four seasons Here’s a closer look at this popular cooking appliance
Available in various sizes, pizza ovens are typically fuelled by wood or propane. You can also purchase hybrid models that use both. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $5,000 for a portable or stationary pizza oven They come in sturdy and attractive materials like
stainless steel, copper, stone and more.
HOW TO PROTECT IT
Pizza ovens are designed for outdoor use
However, protecting yours from ice, snow and sleet is essential If you have a portable model, store it in an enclosed space like a shed If you have a stationary oven or one that’s very heavy, cover it with a durable waterproof cover Additionally, promptly remove fallen snow with a brush or broom
Visit your local kitchen supply store to find a pizza oven to delight your family
GO FOR GOLD.
When to use OSB or plywood
Oriented strand board (OSB) and plywood are similar materials used for many construction and renovation projects. Here’s a guide on when to use each one
ORIENTED STRAND BOARD
OSB is made of small rectangular wood chips pressed together with wax and resin to create a solid end-product OSB is ideal for the following projects:
• Roofing, if the installation is done properly and during a dry period
• Furniture, by leaving the textured wood exposed or covering it
• Decorative walls, like in a studio or workshop
• Kiosks and booths to display merchandise
PLYWOOD
Plywood is created from thin sheets of wood glued together perpendicularly It comes in several varieties and can be used indoors and outdoors if sealed and painted
Here are some projects that are well-suited to plywood:
• Subfloors, walls and exterior siding because of the material’s rigidity
• Furniture, like kitchen cabinets and desks
• Bus and trailer floors for a durable, long-lasting finished product
• Storage spaces, by making various box sizes Visit your local home improvement store to stock up on everything you need for your project.
4 benefits of radiant heating
Radiant floor heating is a modern heating solution that provides unmatched comfort. Herearefourreasonswhyyoumaywantto considerthisupgradeforyourhome.
1. IT’S QUIET
Unlike traditional heating systems, radiant heating systems don’t make any noise Consequently, you won’t have to listen to clankingradiatorsorloudvents
2. IT HEATS EVENLY
Traditional forced-air heating systems employventstodistributewarmairthroughout a space. Therefore, depending on the locationofthevents,theareaheatedmayhave hot and cold spots Radiant heating systems, however, provide consistent, even heatthroughoutanentirespace
3. IT DOESN’T EMIT DUST
Sinceradiantheatingsystemsdon’trequire vents or ductwork, you won’t have extra dust circulating through your home while youheatit Thisisespeciallyhelpfulforindividualswhosufferfromallergies.
4. IT’S ENERGY EFFICIENT
Radiant heating is more energy-efficient thanothermethods Thisisbecausethere’s noheatlossthroughtheductworklikethere would be with a forced-air system Consequently,thecostofheatingahomewiththis typeofsystemcanbemoreaffordable Ifyou’rethinkingaboutinstallingaradiant floorheatingsystem,makesuretoresearch your options, then contact a certified professionaltocompletethejob.
