SATURDAY, MARCH 25TH
Saturday Evening Bingo at 6pm
THURSDAY, March 9, 2023
Organ donor saved lives
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen
staff
They lost their son in a fire in 2018 but he lives on.
Matthew Woodford, born and raised in Prince George, was an organ donor who signed the donation form at 18. Mom had to sign it, too, because he was underage, but even back then he was a giving kid, parents Rick and Noreen Woodford said.
Mattie, as he liked to be called, was living in Vancouver when he died at the age of 34
“Five years ago this month,” Dad Rick said with a sigh
Mattie’s lungs, kidneys and liver were donated to four different people who are alive today because of his generosity
When the Woodfords got the news of the fire, they flew to Mattie’s bedside to hear the news that there was no brain activity after smoke inhalation stopped his breathing. He was already on life support and they were preparing to say goodbye.
“We knew he was never coming back,” Rick said. “So then I asked about organ donation A young lady sitting across the table started to smile because she knew that Matthew had applied to be an
organ donor at 18 In those days you had to be 19 so Noreen had to sign it and we totally had forgotten about that ”
Since Mattie passed, Rick and Noreen have become dedicated volunteers for BC Transplant, advocating for people to register as organ donors
They give talks and raise awareness, have been on posters to promote
donation and even had a little video done to share their story of Mattie’s life-giving decision to be a donor that saved four people.
It takes two minutes to register as an organ donor, and British Columbians are encouraged to put their names forward at www.taketwominutes.ca and then share their decision with loved ones
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Logan Cox certainly made the most of his Canada Winter Games opportunities on the cross-country ski trails in Brookvale, P.E.I..
Three races. Three gold medals. The 16-year-old will have a lot to talk about with his classmates this week after he dominated the field in the para-nordic standing events at the Games. He won the five-kilometre freestyle race, completing the course in 12 minutes 33 seconds He took the para-nordic standing cross-country skiing sprint event in two minutes 45 seconds, and won the 2 5-kilometre classic para-nordic cross-country ski race in 6:48 5
Cox was born with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a hereditary condition that causes nerve damage and muscle weakness in his lower limbs He grew up in Kimberley and has been racing club events as part of the Kimberley Nordic Racers team He’s part of the NextGen national team in cross-country skiing and also competes in biathlon Cox moved to Prince George with his family this school year to attend D P Todd Secondary School and Engage Sport North sports school
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Rick and Noreen Woodford’s son Matthew’s donated organs saved four lives
The City is seeking residents interested in serving on the Prince George Public Library Board.
The Board meets monthly and is responsible for providing library services and programs in Prince George. Their work includes creating policies, establishing goals and objectives of the library, and advocating for the library in the greater community Visit www.pgpl.ca/board for more information on current members, the time commitment required, and the activities of the Library Board.
The City is accepting applications to fill one (1) vacancy for the remainder of a term ending on November 30, 2023.
Involvement with council committees, commissions, and boards provides residents the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of our municipality and to provide input on important civic issues.
How to Apply
Individuals interested in serving on the Library Board must be available to attend regularly scheduled meetings and be willing to actively participate in projects that the Board undertakes throughout the year
Applicants must undergo a criminal record check. Details regarding the criminal record check process will be sent by email to the applicant upon receipt of a completed application form. Applicants must begin the criminal record check process by the application deadline noted below for their application to be considered.
Applications may be completed and submitted online (www.princegeorge.ca/committees), delivered to the Legislative Services Division, 5th Floor City Hall, at the address below, emailed to legislativeservices@princegeorge.ca, or faxed to (250) 561-0183.
Deadline to Apply: 5:00 p.m., Thursday, March 16, 2023
For any questions, or to have and application form mailed to you, please contact the Legislative Services Division at (250) 561-7792 or legislativeservices@princegeorge.ca.
Subscribe to receive information and updates regarding council and committee meetings, committee volunteer recruitment, public hearings, and more by registering at www.princegeorge.ca/Subscribe.
Police overworked, local MLA says
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris sees improved services for those with addictions and mental health troubles as a way to reduce the burden on police.
The Opposition B.C. Liberals public safety critic and a former North District RCMP superintendent says the ideal workload for an officer is 50-60 cases a year
But according to a 2021 provincial report on police resources, officers at the Prince George RCMP detachment averaged 120 cases a year
In February, Prince George city council approved the 2023 budget, which included $1.02 million to hire four more Mounties and two more civilian employees.
But that is still well short of the 19 officers and 10 employees a consultant recommended to the city in December 2022.
While policing within city limits is a municipal responsibility, Morris said the provincial government could step in on another front
“We need to treat those with mental
health and addictions and I think that will have a significant impact on bringing the crime rate down,” he said.
Morris was critical of the progress the governing B.C. NDP has made so far, saying there is a lack of emphasis on building the facilities needed to provide the help
“They can talk about having all these workers on the street but unless they’ve got the facilities to treat them it hasn’t worked for the number of years that we’ve seen and it won’t work in the future,” he said
The provincial budget issued last Tuesday includes $867 million over three years to increase the number of recovery and treatment beds as a way to provide receive “seamless care” after detoxing and treatment.
Morris says tougher sentences for prolific offenders and letting police do their jobs is also needed
“They know best what’s happening on the street,” he said - with files from The Canadian Press
City hall changes will put lives at risk, workers say
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
A policy change at the City of Prince George will “put the City and its Citizens at greater risk,” according to a letter sent to mayor and city council by the city’s building inspection team.
Under the policy change, city building inspectors will no longer review plans for or conduct on-site inspections of commercial, multi-family, industrial or other buildings classified as “Part 3 buildings” under the BC Building Code Part 3 also includes any building larger than 600 sq. metres (6,458 sq feet) in floor space or taller than three storeys.
“We were informed by Will Wedel, Manager of Development Services on Thursday, February 16, 2023, that effective immediately, building officials are no longer permitted to review plans for complex buildings or perform on-site inspections for complex building or plumbing inspections We would like to express our concerns for this new change in process, and other changes that have occurred within the Department and division within the last couple years,” the letter obtained by the Citizen says. “Over the last couple of years, our roles and responsibilities in relation to the building permit and approval process have steadily diminished without consultation.
When we have expressed our concerns related to our responsibilities and duties as building officials, we have been threatened with the alternative of moving towards ‘full professional reliance ’”
Under the professional reliance model, the engineer or other qualified professional employed by the building developer would sign off on the plans and conduct any final inspections of the work
“The building Division understands that the argument could be made that the City should rely on the assurances of professionals to determine compliance and therefore reduce wait times and further limit the City’s liability However, we are very concerned about going in this direction for a several of reasons,” the letter says. “There are numerous examples of building permit applications with designs that do not comply with important, life safety-related Building and Plumbing Code requirements, despite the assurances of Registered Professionals (e g Incorrect snow load, dead end hallways, exiting widths, incorrect direction of door swing, missed fire separation, missed sprinklers, architectural drawings not matching structural drawings, missing water meter sizing)
“There are numerous examples of Building and Plumbing Code violations at time of final inspection despite the City having the closing documents from
Registered Professionals on file (e g incomplete building envelopes, incomplete fire separations, impeded egress from locked exit doors and incorrect direction of swing, exiting distances exceeding maximum allowable, sprinkler heads covered or blocked, water meter bypass, missing check valves to present cross contamination of water supply, missing grease interceptors, incorrect plumbing fixtures)”
Larger, more complex Part 3 buildings “have a high risk factor to the public and if not scrutinized by building officials thoroughly the City becomes partially liable if injuries or mistakes occur,” the letter adds.
The sudden change to a professional reliance model seems contrary to B.C. regulations, the city’s Building Bylaw and the roles and responsibilities of building inspectors, the letter says
“We are concerned that there is a view that the unsatisfactory building permit wait times are a result of the Building Division holding up ‘processing and approval times’ with plan checking and inspections (etc.),” the letter says. “However, we believe that the high levels of staff turnover, and lack of administrative policies, procedures, and training in the Planning and Development Department, as substantiated by the internal review in 2021, have substantially contributed to
the significant wait times and inefficiencies in (the) Planning and Development Department Many of us in the Division stepped up and performed tasks outside of our job description to fill gaps and contribute to the overall success of the Department.”
In January 2022, the Citizen filed a freedom of information request to obtain a copy of the review of the city’s planning and development department conducted by Southern Butler Price LLP However, that request was denied under a clause of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, which prevents the disclosure of legal advice obtained by the city or other public agencies.
The city’s building inspectors are prepared to work with administration and city council to find efficiencies in the building permit process, the letter says. At a city council meeting last week, Coun Brian Skakun questioned city administration about the change
“What is the issue with building officials, that they might no longer be able to review complex (building) plans, plumbing inspections, on-site inspections,” Skakun asked “It that something that staff have been working on?”
City manager Walter Babicz suggested Skakun’s questions were not related to the business at hand, and that Skakun should email staff with his questions.
Notice of Intent
Fort George District Road Closure
Notice is given, pursuant to Section 60(2) of the Transportation Act, that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has received an application to permanently close an unconstructed road right-of-way located approximately 14 kilometres south of Prince George, B C , near Highway 97, and consolidate it with the following adjacent lots:
• Lot 1, Block 3, District Lot 1567, Cariboo District Plan 941, except Plan PGP16630, and
• Lot 10, Block 1, District Lot 1567, Cariboo District Plan 941
A copy of the plan showing the proposed road closure can be emailed upon request.
Anyone supporting or objecting to this road closure should submit written comments to the ministry’s Fort George District office at 360 -1011 4th Avenue, Prince George, B.C., V2L 3H9, or by email to DA.FortGeorge@gov.bc.ca no later than April 9, 2023.
For more information, or to request a copy of the plan, please contact the ministry’s Fort George office at 250 565-4410 or at DA.FortGeorge@gov.bc.ca
Man homeless after BC Housing buys building
ARTHUR WILLIAMS
Citizen staff
A Prince George man is now homeless after BC Housing offered to buy the unfinished downtown apartment building he was scheduled to move into.
Nathan Findlay put down a $725 damage deposit for unit 202 at Quebec Street House on Sept 23 He was told he could move in on Nov. 1, and gave his notice at his former apartment But November turned to December, then January, then February and the 36-unit building still wasn’t ready to move in.
In February, he was allowed to move his belongings into the unit, to avoid paying $200 a month in storage fees Then he was told last week by an employee of Quebec Street House owners PRP Holdings Ltd. that he’d need to remove his belongings from the apartment, and his damage deposit would be returned because the building is being sold
“I’ve been staying at Airbnbs, I’ve been staying with friends I’m almost broke My parents have been looking after my dog
for the last three months,” Findlay said “I don’t want my damage deposit back, I want a place to live ”
Findlay said when the building was listed for sale, he was assured by representatives of PRP Holdings that he and other tenants who had paid their damage deposits would be allowed to stay
“I’ve worked with the homeless downtown I’ve worked with BC Housing before,” Findlay, an outreach worker at the Prince George Needle Exchange and a former addict who has been in recovery for four years, said
“How ironic. BC Housing (bought the building) and I’m homeless ”
“BC Housing takes multiple approaches to providing housing, including purchasing existing buildings. As such, we are currently in discussions with the owner of 605 Quebec St. to potentially purchase the building,” a BC Housing spokesperson said in an email “The building is currently vacant and has no occupancy permit If BC Housing moves forward with this purchase, we will share additional information regarding future plans ”
Quebec Street House is seen on Feb 23
City needs 32 more firefighters, chief says
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The Prince George Fire Rescue Service needs to add 32 additional firefighters and two support staff over the next four years, Prince George Fire Chief Cliff Warner told city council.
The fire department currently has the equivalent of 129.5 full-time staff, of which 100 are firefighters, Warner said
City council heard a consultant’s report on staffing levels for the fire department The department has seen a 67 per cent increase in calls since 2015, but has not had a significant increase in staffing levels since 1995
“We recognize it’s a big ask, but it’s the reality of what we have been facing for years,” Warner said “The focus is, ‘are we understaffed to respond to a residential structure fire?’ It’s our requirement to respond, to get those people out if necessary.”
The report also calls for the development of a fifth
fire hall in the BCR area, a fire training centre in Prince George, and the purchase of another pumper/tender fire truck (at a cost of roughly $1 million) and a F350 medic unit at an estimated cost of $100,000
Currently the Prince George fire department is required to send crews and equipment to Quesnel to do live fire training, which poses logistical challenges and takes crews away from the city, Warner said “We want to protect the city, but that is a lot,” Coun. Cori Ramsay said “Thirty-two firefighters is a lot ”
Members of city council are calling on the B.C. government to reimburse the City of Prince George when local firefighters respond to medical calls.
“This is putting a strain on our department, by having a significant number of medical calls,” Counc Kyle Sampson said. “We are providing a great service, but at the end of the day medical (care) is a responsibility of the province.”
Prince George firefighters responded to 5,553 medical calls in 2022, making up roughly 60 per cent of the record 9,208 call-outs Prince George fire crews responded to that year.
City manager Walter Babicz said he doesn’t believe any B C municipality bills the provincial government for medical calls The cost for firefighters responding to medical calls wasn’t available.
Sentence delayed for street-level drug dealer
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A woman convicted of street-level drug dealing has been given one last chance to tell her story before sentencing.
Found guilty in June 2022 of selling heroin-fentanyl via a “dead drop” in downtown Prince George, Crystal Leah Arndt has twice missed interviews for pre-sentence reports but provincial court judge Peter McDermick granted her a third try, putting a sentencing hearing on hold.
McDermick gave the reprieve after defence counsel David Jenkins Jr said additional information about
Arndt’s situation has come to light - that she had secured stable housing for the first time in six years and is getting help for her own addiction
He also noted that Arndt had appeared at her second appointment for an interview but was 25 minutes late, leaving a shortage of time to carry out the process.
Prior to the disclosure, Crown prosecution had been seeking 26 months in jail and defence 18 months behind bars
But once a report is in hand, Jenkins indicated he may argue for a conditional sentence order, in which his client would serve her term in the community rather than in jail
The conviction comes from an arrest made more than
2 1/2 years ago when RCMP officers in an unmarked vehicle near St. Vincent DePaul saw a man give her some cash and, in response, her taking out something small from her bra and depositing it in a nearby flower container for him to pick up
RCMP subsequently found a variety of items on her, including pre-packaged methamphetamine and drug-related paraphernalia.
An officer also found a baggie holding nine flaps of heroin-fentanyl lying at Arndt’s feet.
McDermick commented that the case has gone on long enough and warned Arndt that the next hearing on sentencing will go ahead with or without a completed report
School board denies speaking request from unions
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Two union leaders representing Prince George school district staff were told they were not allowed to address the School District 57 board during its regular public meeting held last Tuesday.
Prince George District Teacher’s Association President (PGDTA) Daryl Beauregard was recently critical of the board’s silence after public comments about district teachers and SOGI (sexual
orientation and gender identity) education in schools
On Feb. 24, Beauregard received a letter informing him that the board was re-enacting a policy that requires everybody to submit the topics of their discussion, and request time to speak.
Last Monday, he submitted his request but was denied his request.due to short notice
“It’s disappointing. It’s frustrating. I don’t recall ever this happening before As a union president of an employee group, we’ve always enjoyed the right to
be able to address our publicly elected officials ”
The board’s policy manual states “the board chairperson or the chairperson of a committee, in consultation with Trustees, reserves the right to decline any request to make a formal presentation.”
Paula Bass, president of CUPE 3742 which represents school support staff, said she was also denied speaking at the meeting.
However, Bass attended the public comment period, which had been moved following the conclusion of the board
meeting, to voice her concerns.
“I would just like to tell you how much it hurt CUPE 3742 to be denied to speak to you publicly We applied and were turned down. I am the voice of 1,000 members and when you turn that voice off, you’re telling us that we don’t that you don’t care,” said Bass
This meeting was also not broadcast or posted on the board’s YouTube channel as previous meetings have been.
School board chair Rachael Weber declined to comment to the Citizen after the meeting
Drummers planning anniversary event
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
The UHNBC Prince George Traditional Drummers are celebrating three years of honouring health care heroes.
On March 6, 2020, in the early days of the pandemic the group formed to bring the drums to the hospital
The group was started by drummers Ivan Paquette and Wesley Mitchell who led drumming at UHNBC for 47 days straight
After that initial stretch, the group began hosting an open drum circle, rain or shine , at the hospital every Monday night
Their goal was to provide hope, faith,
inspiration and to honour and support health care workers and patients They’ve since been recognized in the provincial legislature by MLA Shirley Bond and by provincial health officer Dr Bonnie Henry.
In the three years of their existence, UHNBC drummers have also brought that same passion to many other community events and celebrations.
UHNBC drummers will be hosting a three-year event on Saturday, March 25 from 11 a m to 2 p m at the UHNBC parking lot at 144 Edmonton Street.
The goal is provide a fun and safe event to acknowledge healthcare heroes including nurses, doctors, first responders, long term care staff, RCMP, and firefighters.
SATURDAY, MARCH 25TH
Saturday Evening Bingo at 6:00pm
During the UHNBC Drummers Group second anniversary celebration last year, many took part in the drumming
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
CROSSWALK NEEDED
I drive transit bus and I have a big concern about some newer subdivisions, especially on Tyner Boulevard at the University Heights intersection
There’s no cross walk and there’s one bus stop on Tyner Boulevard on each side for going up to UNBC, then downtown and the other side is going down to College Heights. It’s a very important route for going to school, work, shopping and more.
I’m very concerned about the passengers who get off at the bus stop and then have to cross the unsafe road, especially many students and young ones using the buses I’ve seen many near miss incidents
I already submitted a request for a sign with warning light to the city Some changes are needed ASAP.
Ruth Park, Prince George
FIASCOS EVERYWHERE
The present forestry situation in British Columbia can be fixed, the question is who is willing to take a bath to fix it? We can look at the mountain pine beetle, exportation of raw logs, corporate mistakes, and the continued and inept
running by the various governments over the last 40 years There are a great many factors we can examine
At the base level, we can look at universities that research and teach resource management and resilience, hand-in-hand with teaching antiquated agricultural models that do not work with trees, species diversification, and soil management
While it may seem unrelated, the sheer greed with regard to the current Telus contract negotiations sheds light on just how bad we have gotten
Internet and cell phone coverage and pricing in Canada is among some of the worst in the world while Canada ranks very high in other life-quality categories
Telus have outsourced many jobs to developing countries to save money, and in 2019 the net income for Telus was $1 75 Billion. Despite this, Telus employees have been working without a contract for ages.
The first Telus response to this is to speak about competitiveness in a world economy and blame the high cost of the union labour, but there is another thing to consider While Telus refuses to deal fairly, and strip their employees of their pension, Telus donated $500 million to a
charitable organization last year and are in the process of doing the same as I write this The details are all public record and it is astonishing that they can donate this much money but not get a CBA in place. When you recognize that charitable donations are tax deductable, you realize exactly why Telus is doing what they are doing, and that is maintaining a PR charade as tummy warming as their animal ads
Greed, portfolios worth billions, a stock market that isn’t worth its value The governments walking hand-in-hand with corporations that only care about profit, off-shore investment, and padding hefty retirements while our province dies It is time that we as British Columbians started to fight back
How much is enough?
Michael
Maslen, Prince George
CUTTING BACK ON TIPS
With the recent rise in inflation and the cost of almost everything rising, it is becoming more and more difficult to justify spending money on things like groceries, clothing, footwear and eating out to name but a few. I make a decent wage and have some disposable income and
like everyone else I like to splurge every once in a while My choice is eating out, which we do maybe three times a month as we all know sometimes you just don’t want to cook I was surprised at how much food has gone up in price and for a family of four without alcohol being ordered, quite often our order comes to well over $130 whereas just a few short months ago it was around $90 and to top it off you are expected to tip, which can add up real fast My last two times eating out I refused to leave a tip and in one case the waitress called me a cheap &$*- I have only so much disposable income per month and I’m sorry but leaving a $15-30 tip just isn’t in the cards for me right now
Wages are not keeping up with rising costs and everyone is paying the price and we decided to scale back our eating out and with that the tip will either not be paid or scaled way back. I feel sorry for those that rely on tips to supplement their income but just because I have a decent wage doesn’t mean I’m loaded either. Something has to give and for me it starts scaling back on eating out and decreasing the tip size or none at all.
Dean Soiland, Prince George
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.
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
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
250-562-2441
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
Chretien got it so right 20 years ago
This month marks 20 years since another fatal error by the American Empire, and what is arguably the wisest Canadian foreign policy decision of the 21st century
On March 19, 2003, bombers began the unprovoked pummelling of Iraq, and a day later the land invasion by U S , British, Australian, and Polish forces began The result has been hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths, as well as military deaths, and instability in the region that continues to this day.
The invasion was a catastrophe in every sense of the word, from deaths to the destruction of ancient landmarks From the financial costs to the countries involved, to the deep trauma caused to the people who survived. The only ones who benefited were corporations that suck from public coffers, especially the military contractors and their stockholders.
Retired U S Army Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson, former Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Colin Powell, acknowledges and deeply regrets the role he played in
LESSONS IN LEARNING
GERRY CHIDIAC
the debacle He was instrumental in writing the infamous speech Powell delivered to the United Nations a month before the invasion claiming irrefutable evidence of “weapons of mass destruction ”
When confronted on the role he played, Wilkerson acknowledges that he is “guilty as charged.” He also recognizes the dangerous path his country continues to follow and is using his knowledge and experience to advance the cause of global peace.
But why didn’t Canada follow our strongest allies into the futile war in Iraq? Most of the Canadian population was against this war, but ultimate credit needs to be given to our then Prime Minister Jean Chrétien.
Chrétien faced tremendous pressure, from both American President George
Bush and UK Prime Minister Tony Blair He also faced pressure from the Conservative Party led by Stephen Harper and even from within his own Liberal Party It can be argued that Chrétien was an astute politician and knew that it was not expedient to go against his electorate
This may be the case, but it does not sound like Chrétien He may have been many things, but wishy-washy was not one of them. What seemed to endear him most to Canadians was his straightforward and sincere manner, peppered with a sharp, often self-effacing sense of humour. People trusted him, even in Western Canada (a rarity for Liberals), and throughout his political career, he remained largely accountable to that confidence.
Chrétien not only kept us out of the Iraq War, saved Canadian lives, and prevented us from being complicit in atrocious war crimes, but he also demonstrated that Canada does not have to walk lockstep with our powerful American neighbours in our foreign policy The United States remains Canada’s largest trading partner,
and there were no consequences to Canada saying no to the war in Iraq. This should be duly noted by the spineless political leaders we have today
The American Empire is in decline While they have the most powerful and expensive military, they cannot win a war They have also lost the respect of the world, especially in the global south
As Canada mindlessly supports American foreign policy and the coups that they instigate, our prestige suffers along with theirs. Most Canadians would be shocked, for example, to learn of the reputation our government and our corporations have created in much of the world
Credit must be given to Canadians for opposing the invasion of Iraq in 2003, and credit must be given to Chrétien for honouring our will Our leaders since that time seem to have forgotten that we are an independent country, capable of following our own discernment. We need to again embrace the legacy of 2003 and be the version of Canada that our children will be proud of Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George writer.
Is a government budget a plan or a promise?
Iknow that sounds like a strange question but in analyzing any budget by any level of government, I think it is important to recognize a budget means many different things to different people Or perhaps a better way of saying it is that a budget can be interpreted in various ways, depending upon your point-of-view. For the governing party – any governing party – a budget is a statement of broad intent Saying they are going to spend $28.674 billion on the Ministry of Health is, at best, an approximation There are certain fixed costs in the health care systems – wages, the cost of electricity, janitorial supplies – but many of the costs
AS I SEE IT TODD WHITCOMBE
are variable – such as the cost of heating and lighting hospitals, the number of patients attending an ER, or the costs incurred because of a pandemic At best, the costing model makes predictions and the government draws up a budget to ensure the prediction is met.
For the opposition, a budget is a promise - $28.674 billion will be spent on
health and not a penny more nor a penny less Overspending is met with comments about fiscal responsibility and questions about where the money went Underspending leads to the question of why wasn’t the money spent when so many are in need? How can we have a surgical backlog if the ministry has a surplus?
For the public, a budget is an overwhelming statement of just how much of our money the government is spending And although no one is likely to disagree with $28 674 billion for health care, the release of a government’s budget always generates anger over wasted spending
People love to comment about spending
on hospitals, schools, highways, flood control, policing, mental health, forestry jobs, provincial debt, etcetera Ask anyone and you can always find things they are for and things they are against Generally, in the public eye, governments never get it right
For a columnist? A budget is a chance to talk about money matters and to see what a government’s priorities are. What do we get for our money?
In the end, though, it is not the budget that matters It is the actual spending That is where the rubber hits the road. Todd Whitcome is a chemistry professor at UNBC.
B.C. Liberals leaning away from decriminalization
The Opposition BC Liberals are shifting their support away from decriminalization and the safe supply of drugs, in the wake of the positive reception to the party’s recent addictions treatment platform
The Liberals have been undergoing a not-so-subtle change on the issue, playing out mainly through leader Kevin Falcon’s amped-up messaging that the governing BC NDP is enabling chaos and disorder on the streets with its soft-on-crime peddling of free, legal drugs
“The NDP’s plunge headlong into decriminalization without the proper guardrails that even the federal government insisted should be in place is absolutely not something that we’re going to support on this side of the house,” Falcon said last Thursday in the legislature, in what amounted to his strongest
comments yet on the issue.
The Liberals supported decriminalization in the past, they co-wrote and endorsed the all-party health legislative committee’s report last year that called for the successful implementation of decriminalization and an examination of whether the 2 5-gram personal possession limit remains too low
Numerous BC Liberal MLAs have also spoken out about the importance of decriminalization in the past, endorsing the call for action from provincial health officer Dr Bonnie Henry and chief coroner Lisa Lapointe, who say it will reduce stigma and help encourage people suffering addictions to seek help
That full-throated support, however, has shrunk in recent weeks to a begrudging aside in messaging that focuses almost entirely on addictions treatment
and paints decriminalization as an agent of chaos thought up entirely by the NDP
The timing coincided with the launch of Falcon’s $1 5 billion addictions treatment plan last month, and ramped up after the NDP budget last week in which New Democrats offered their own $1 billion treatment package that fell short of the Liberal plan in several key ways
More than two-thirds of B C ’s front-line police had gone through the first in a twostep training process on decriminalization when it began in February The two largest police agencies in B C , Vancouver police and the RCMP, made decriminalization training mandatory.
Falcon seems emboldened by both the widespread praise for his addictions plan, and also the NDP’s inability to match his proposal in areas like scrapping perbed fees, and funding private beds to
eliminate wait times.
It also plays much better within the centre-right BC Liberal coalition to push treatment, because free, safe drugs can be met with scepticism, if not outright hostility, amongst social conservatives that Falcon is trying to keep from bleeding off to the BC Conservative Party and its new MLA John Rustad It’s fine for the BC Liberals to change their position on decriminalization and safe supply But they should at least be honest with what they are doing Paying lip service to supporting decriminalization in the name of putting politics aside during a public health crisis, and then turning it into a wedge issue against the NDP, makes the BC Liberals look like hypocrites, at best
Rob Shaw writes about B C politics for Glacier Media
Group raising funds for trauma treatment
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
A group in Prince George has launched a campaign to fund raise for an individual who is navigating treatment to heal severe childhood trauma.
It’s called the Forget-Me-Not Campaign and the goal is to raise $55,000 which will go towards helping this young community member with the cost of attending a one-of-a-kind treatment centre located on Vancouver Island
The organizing team is withholding the identity of the individual to protect their privacy but hopes the campaign will also act as an avenue to start a discussion around childhood trauma
With that in mind organizers will be donating five per cent of the proceeds
raised to a local organization supporting women and children who are healing from trauma
“Our hope is that this fundraising campaign will bring hope to not only our family but to other families that are navigating the difficult path of childhood
Campaign organizers filling packets of Forget Me
Not seeds to raise money for a local person’s child trauma treatment
trauma,” says the team
The campaign is starting with a donation drive throughout the month of March where all donors will receive a gift of Forget-Me-Not seeds
Anyone interested in donating can send an e-transfer to forget me not 2care@
gmail com and donors are asked to provide their mailing address in the notes of the transfer so they can receive their seeds.
Those interested can also contact the group by email to donate by cash or cheque or to request a fundraising package.
Businesses in the community are also getting on board with the campaign. Sunset Studio is offering weekly all level yoga classes for the month of March.
Classes by donation will run on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 at their Spruceland location and all proceeds will go directly to the campaign
You can find out more information through the Facebook group or drop by their table in front of the Northern Women’s Centre at UNBC
Thinner forests smarter, logger tells forests forum
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Liam Parfitt, the owner of Freya Logging, a local company that specializes in selective logging, knows the forest industry is in trouble and believes he has a helpful solution.
“I think that selective logging is the only way to fix our big clearcuts from, starting in the ‘80s – all our clearcuts are actually full of wood and they can give us the wood we need to keep our mills open and keep our jobs and make our forests functional for what we want again,” said Parfitt, who spoke at the Future of Forestry forum at UNBC.
Parfitt says too many logged areas have been replanted with pine and forgotten about for decades, having been allowed to grow into thick canopies that block sunlight and don’t allow any other species to thrive He said pine stands burn naturally every 30-70 years and that fire hazard could be reduced by thinning
He refers to pine stands he sees in the forest as a “circle of death,” because they are too dense to support moose populations If some of those trees are removed, deciduous vegetation will naturally propagate in that space and animal habitat will
be restored
He said harvesting techniques will have to change and so will the equipment, which will have to be more nimble and more portable than traditional bunchers and skidders for clearcutting It’s a formula that’s worked well in places like Sweden to create more diverse and healthier forests
He says industry giants like Canfor and West Fraser are willing to change adopt thinning operations
“Getting contractors and stumpage is the big issue right now We need the government to figure out how much money to charge for thinning,” Parfitt said
Freya Logging owner Liam Parfitt speaks at UNBC’s Canfor Theatre
Show Home draw April 28
For 41 years, the Prince George Spruce Kings Show Home Lottery has been the lifeblood of the team
Proceeds from the draw pay for more than half the community-owned team’s operating expenses to compete in the B C Hockey League
The winning ticket will be drawn April 28 and somebody will receive the keys to the custom-built $880,000 1,587 square-foot house built by Hopson Construction, located in the Aberdeen Glen subdivision at 2834 Links Dr Furniture, TV and appliances are also included in the draw.
“Our show home and 50-50 lotteries are the keys to our ability to operate,” said Kings general manager
One lucky winner will become the owner of this $880,000 house at 2834
Links Dr., when the grand prize draw is made April 28 for the 41st annual Spruce Kings Show Home Lottery
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
What: Public Hearing regarding Zoning Bylaw No. 2892, Amendment Bylaw No. 3288, 2022
When and Where: 7:00 pm, Thursday, March 23, 2023 Via telephone conference call and in-person attendance at: Regional District Board Room 155 George Street, Prince George, BC
Applicant: Philip and Linda Asquith
Proposal: Zoning Bylaw No. 2892, Amendment Bylaw No. 3288, 2022 is proposed to rezone the subject property from Rural 1 (Ru1) to Residential/Seasonal 2 (R/S2) to allow Recreation Cabin use or other uses permitted by the R/S2 zone. The subject property is legally described as The Fractional South West ¼ Of The Fractional South East ¼ Of District Lot 6781 Cariboo District Except Plans 17021 17500 and H789. The address is 41765 Prince George Highway 16 W
Mike Hawes. “The cost of running a junior hockey team is increasing every year, especially with the current challenges around inflation. The success of our lotteries is vital to our survival ”
Tickets cost $125 each and are available through the Show Home Lottery website
Traditionally, the 12,000 tickets printed for the draw sell out and assuming they do, the odds of winning are one in 12,000 Not bad considering the odds of a grand prize 6/49 lotto payday are one in 14 million.
There’s still time to get in on the last early-bird draw, a $2,000 gift voucher for Central Builders. The cutoff date is March 22
Tickets are also available for the second Spruce Kings Mega 50-50 draw The cutoff date in April 26 and the draw will be made at 11:45 a.m. on April 28.
How can I participate and provide comment?
Anyone who believes that their interest in land is affected by the proposed bylaw shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the public hearing or to present written submissions prior to or at the public hearing regarding matters contained in the bylaw The public hearing will be chaired by a delegate of the Regional District Board.
Written submissions will only be accepted in advance of the public hearing until 9:00 am on March 22, 2023 and must be sent by: Email: developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca
Hand/Mail: Attention Development Services,155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Fax: 250-562-8676
Written submissions received before 9:00 am on March 22, 2023, will be posted to the Regional District’s website. No written submissions will be accepted after 9:00 am unless they are submitted in-person at the public hearing meeting. All written submissions must include the legible legal name of the author
Any written submissions received before or at the public hearing will become public record, be posted on the RDFFG website, and form part of the public Board agenda. By submitting a comment, you are consenting to the disclosure of any personal information that you provide. Personal information is collected and disclosed under the authority of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Attending by telephone conference call: Contact the Regional District at 250-960-4400 or developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca for the telephone conference number and instructions.
Need more info? A copy of the proposed Bylaw and any relevant background materials are available for review by the public on the Regional District’s website at http://www.rdffg.bc.ca/services/ development/land-use-planning/current-applications/ or at the Regional District office, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., between March 6 and 23, 2023. Appointments are preferred. For more information contact Heather Meier, Planning Leader, 250-960-4400
Local speed skater a world champion
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Prince George long track speed skater Carolina Hiller is a world champion.
The 26-year-old Prince George Blizzard Speed Skating Club
alumnus teamed up with Ivainie Blondin of Ottawa and Calgary’s Brooklyn McDougall to win the women’s team sprint last Thursday night at the ISU World Speed Skating Championships in Heerenveen, Netherlands
“Becoming world champion my first year on the World Cup circuit is an incredible feeling,” said Hiller, in an email to the Citizen
“I am so proud of us today and the work we have put in each race this season, to be able to end the season as world champions is amazing.”
The team sprint is a three-lap race and on each lap one skater drops off so there is just one
team member skating the final lap. McDougall took the lead in her lap, Hiller kept Canada in front during her second lap and Blondin maintained the lead the rest of the way to win Canada’s first medal of the world finals
They clocked 1:26.29, just 29-hundredths of a second ahead of the United States, and 1.57 seconds in front of third-place China. It was the first time in world championship history the team sprint was contested.
The Canadian women won World Cup silver in the three previous events this season
Soon after the women celebrated their title, the all-Quebec team of Christopher Fiola, Laurent Dubreil and Antoine Gélinas-Beaulieu captured the men’s team sprint title, the first ever men’s sprint world championship medal for Canada.
Hiller finished 12th as the top Canadian in the women’s 500metre event last Friday
Ringette duo together on three different top teams
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
March is going to be an exhausting, travel-packed month for Jocelyn Atkinson and Abby McLeod with three ringette championship tournaments on their schedule.
For the first time in their lengthy careers, they are teammates on three different rep teams and that’s many days away from their Prince George homes Since last May, they’ve racked up 21 weekend road trips.
Their championship call of duty started March 3 in Port Coquitlam when they joined their Northern Lights club team at the B.C. under-16 provincials.
The two 15-year-olds will then skate with their Zone 8 teammates, representing the northeastern region of the province at the B.C. Winter Games in Vernon, March 23-26
That’s the warmup for the Canadian ringette championships in Regina, April 9-15.
Atkinson is captain of the provincial team and played on the U-16 team last year, while McLeod was an affiliated player They ended up 14th at the U-16 nationals in Calgary
“Hopefully we’ll get a medal at provincials and nationals If we bring it, we could,” said Atkinson said
The B.C. U-16s have been to three tournaments this season and they attend regular training camps in the Lower Mainland They also played the B C under-19 team in several exhibition games.
“I really like the competitiveness on the
Fathers and daughters show off the three jerseys that will be worn at this year’s provincial, BC Winter Games and national championships From left are Devin Atkinson, Jocelyn Atkinson, Abby McLeod and Hugo McLeod
team, there’s a standard you have to meet and we get to travel to big places and see lots of really good ringette,” said McLeod
“It’s a lot traveling and that’s hard, I’m missing a lot of school (at Duchess Park) but I’m getting high B’s ” Atkinson and McLeod started playing ringette when they were four. Atkinson plays centre and is the playmaker, while McLeod is more of shooter patrolling the wing They’ve played with or against each other for 11 years and that chemistry shows when they get into games as
linemates on all three teams.
Atkinson also plays competitive volleyball at Prince George Secondary School and in the Prince George Youth Volleyball Club and she says she owes her strength and coordination to ringette
“It got me athletic, doing something I love,” said Atkinson.
That love for the game is strong in both families
Devin Atkinson and Hugo McLeod have coached each of their daughters at various times since the start of their
careers and their wives, Brenda Atkinson and Deanna McLeod, have been active for years as executives in the Prince George Ringette Association
The girls each had an older sister to emulate who played the game at a high level Paige Shaw is four years older than her sister Abby, while Jocelyn’s sister Taryn is also four years her senior
“We both have either coached with or against each other since they were four years old and we also did that with the other girls,” said Hugo McLeod, a former president of the PGRA.
“There are so many similarities between Paige and Taryn and Abby and Jocelyn, to the point where they actually copy one of Paige and Taryn’s plays, which is a back-pass behind the net which is very effective. They’ve probably scored 10 or 12 goals this year on that play alone.”
The fact Jocelyn and Abby are playing on three rep teams this year is an obvious source of pride for both dads That’s never happened before in either family.
“I’ve been watching them grow up year after year and now they’re starting to peak in their abilities so it’s just fun watching them now,” said Devin Atkinson, coach of the Zone 8 team “It’s a lot of fun because they are very gifted in ringette They’ve worked hard for it ”
The Zone 8 team has played in tournaments in Prince George, Kelowna and Richmond There aren’t enough players to form a league in the region so the Northern Lights take on the under19 team in Prince George for added competition
Carolina Hiller of Prince George, left, celebrates with sprint teammates Brooklyn McDougall and Ivanie Blondin after they won gold for Canada last Thursday at the ISU Speed Skating World Championships in Heerenveen, Netherlands
51-year-old mom setting powerlifting records
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
She started powerlifting a couple of years ago and now at 51, Tina Lamarsh is a national record holding champion.
It all started when she broke her shoulder at work as a millwright.
“At the beginning of my recovery I couldn’t lift more than a coffee cup and nearing the end of all my physio I did an occupational rehab clinic where I was exercising not just my arm but the rest of my body to condition it to return to work,” Lamarsh said “Then when I returned to work I said to myself, well, what am I going to do now?”
She got her answer when she went to see her son Josh in a powerlifting competition and he suggested she join his gym, XConditioning, in downtown Prince George
“So I started coming here and it bit me,” Lamarsh said. She competed in her second powerlifting meet last November, lifting 145kg (319.67lbs) in her squat and deadlift, and bench press was 67 5kg (148 8lbs)
“When I got to my third lift I was feeling strong and I felt very powerful and my son was actually a spotter So I’ve got proud mamma pictures of me with my son ready to save me if I couldn’t lift it ”
Every athlete’s dream is to do their personal best during competition and Lamarsh got emotional thinking about how much that meant to have her son right there with her during those very special moments.
“I am a firm believer that you never know until you try it and you surprise yourself and it’s incredibly empowering when you are able to do these things and it changes your whole mental outlook on how you view yourself and being around all these people that have the same goal is uplifting It’s absolutely incredible.”
Josh Maser celebrates his overtime goal, which gave the University of Calgary Dinos a 3-2 win over the Alberta Golden Bears in Game 1 of the Canada West final Friday in Calgary
Maser steps up for Dinos
The Calgary Dinos needed a hero to send them off to the University Cup and former Prince George Cougar Josh Maser was happy to oblige.
The 23-year-old from Houston scored with 3:16 left in the third and deciding game of the U SPORTS Canada West Conference men’s hockey final Sunday in Calgary in a 2-1 victory over the Alberta Golden Bears.
Maser’s goal, his fourth in six playoff games, gave the Dinos a 2-1 series victory in the Canada West final.
Another former Cougar forward, Tyson Upper, scored the tying goal Sunday, 10 minutes into the third period
Maser is a former Cougar captain who played four seasons in Prince George from 2016-20 The arts major is in in his second year at U of C
He had a goal and an assist in the Dinos’ 3-2 win Friday in Game 1 of the best-ofthree final Maser also drew an assist in Calgary’s 5-4 overtime loss on Saturday.
NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will not be held for Zoning Bylaw No. 2892, Amendment Bylaw No. 3291, 2023. The Regional District Board will consider the first reading of Bylaw No. 3291 at its regular meeting scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Thursday, March 23, 2023, in the Regional District Board room located at 155 George Street, Prince George, BC.
The purpose of Bylaw No. 3291 is to rezone
The East 1/2 of District Lot 5683 Cariboo District Except: Plans 18334, 22857, 28636, 30380, PGP40622, and EPP1312 to permit Tourist Accommodation use on a sitespecific basis within the Rural Residential 1 zone. The Tourist Accommodation use will be limited to a maximum floor area of 150 m2 and a maximum of one unit of accommodation. The subject property is located at 15719 Old Tete Jaune Road.
Need more info? A copy of the proposed Bylaw and any relevant background materials are available for review by the public on the Regional District’s website http://www. rdffg.bc.ca/services/development/landuse-planning/current-applications/ or at the Regional District office, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., between March 6 and 23, 2023
Who can I speak to? Heather Meier RPP MCIP, Planning Leader, 250-960-4400
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Canadian record-holding powerlifter Tina Lamarsh, 51, prepares for her deadlift at XConditioning gym in downtown Prince George.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
HOROSCOPES & PUZZLES
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
You’ll undertake a new spiritual practice that allows you to develop a more active social life and meet interesting people. You’ll form new friendships and improve your well-being.
TAURUS
You’ll finally get your priorities in order You’ll make the changes you’ve wanted to make for a long time. Some of your friends may be very supportive.
GEMINI
The topic of holidays will come up when you’re talking with your partner, friends or family You’ll learn more about specific destinations you’ve been eager to explore for a long time.
CANCER
If you have concerns about your health, take some time to see your doctor and get tested. Either everything will be fine, or you’ll receive the appropriate care so you can heal quickly
LEO
Your leadership will help you reach a long -term agreement at work. Your sense of initiative will help you resolve a conflict.
VIRGO
You’ll have to make many compromises at work and home to regain harmony You’ll have to muster all your patience to address a confusing situation.
LIBRA
You may feel stressed about your financial situation. Consult a professional to gain sufficient clarity If you don’t, you may become more anxious.
SCORPIO
You feel dynamic and enthusiastic this week, which will help you increase your income and find joy You’ll have the means to spoil yourself and be pampered. A week-long holiday will be memorable.
SAGITTARIUS
Carefully review all your bills to avoid unpleasant surprises regarding your finances. A mistake could cost you a large amount of money
CAPRICORN
It’s always wise to take a moment to ponder your decision before embarking on a new adventure that could change your life. You’ll be presented with new possibilities over the next few days.
AQUARIUS
This week, you’ll find yourself in a frenzy of social engagements or work meetings. Don’t forget to take some time for yourself, if only to relax.
PISCES
At work or home, you’ll be designated to organize an event that brings many people together Your community requires your involvement, and you can’t refuse.
PUZZLE NO. 912
PUZZLE NO. 176
cl assi fi eds
REMEMBRANCES
Obituaries
In Loving Memory
Walter R. Eberle
February 17, 1945 - March 14, 2022
When I Lost You
I wish I could see you one more time, Come walking through the door.... But I know that is impossible I will hear your voice no more.
I know you can feel my tears And you don’t want me to cry, Yet my heart is broken because I can’t understand why someone So precious had to die.
I pray that God will give me strength And somehow get me through.... As I struggle with the heartache That came When I Lost You.
All our love, Connie and family
Terrence James Coventry
Dec. 23, 1933 to Feb. 19, 2023
Terry passed away in Langley Lodge, Langley BC at the age of 89, surrounded by family after a lengthy and difficult journey with dementia.
He is survived by his loving wife Evelyn of 27 years, sons Kirk (Kathy), Mark (Melissa), Jay (Dianne) and daughter Tracee (Brian). His grandchildren are Kyle, Kara, Justin (Jenny), and Sterling (Sharmila).
Terry was predeceased by his parents, James and Williamina, sister Isabella, first wife Bernice (Bunnie) and granddaughter Leila.
Being a man of deep faith, Terry served as an elder in various congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses for some 60 years. His faith moved him to spend countless hours volunteering to study the Bible with people as well as regularly visiting and encouraging the elderly in extended care homes. He was well known, loved and highly respected by many across Canada. Terry leaves behind a rich legacy of service to his God, Jehovah. John 11:25
Adam passed away peacefully on Winter’s Solstice in Squamish, BC, family by his side. Adam was a kind gentle person who loved being active and outdoors in nature, birdwatching, hiking, canoeing. He was a devoted husband and father, family always very important to him. Adam worked in the pulp and paper industry as an Environmental Technician at Prince George Pulp and Paper Co and then Caribou Pulp and Paper in Quesnel, BC.
Adam met his wife Anne Dow in Prince George at a pulp mill Christmas party. In Prince George with his young family, he and Anne were active members of the United Church and created strong family friendships and connections.
Adam and Anne enjoyed their retirement years in Vernon. In 2017 they moved to Squamish to be closer to family and his grandson Thomas.
Adam is survived by his loving wife Anne, daughter Jennifer (m. Martin), son David, grandson Thomas, sister Heather (m. Vic), nephews Steven, Kevin and Darren; and extended family. He is predeceased by his parents David and Violet (nee Osborn) Moss.
No funeral service will be held. Adam’s ashes will be scattered at a later date somewhere in the coastal mountains with the alpine wildflowers.
To view Dad’s full obituary and to send condolence to the family visit squamishfuneralchapel.com/obituaries
“The wonder of the world, the beauty and the power, the shapes of things, their colours, lights, and shades; these I saw. Look ye also while life lasts” ~ ‘BB’
Obituaries
Memoriam
In Loving Memory of Troy Fontaine Jun 8, 1967 to Mar 8, 1990
Forever in my heart Love, Mom
In Memoriam
Adam Donald Moss
February 5, 1940 - December 21, 2022
Judith (Judy) Sandra Prentice 1952-2022
Judy was born September 29/1952 in Prince George and Passed away peacefully December 16/2022. Judy was predeceased by her Mother Eileen Mary, in 1978, Father Thomas Henry in 2015.
She is survived by her sister Sharon and nephew Tyler, brother Jerry, nephew Collin, niece Karly, great nephew Caleb, and great niece Amelia, brother Tim, wife Sandra, nephew Ryan, wife Katie, great nephew Dax and niece Brie.
Judy always enjoyed sewing for children, as she had many children in her life, in her words they brought joy to her life.
An accomplished scholar, family historian, and traveler, as her favourite place was none other than Disneyland, she never let anything keep her down to do what she enjoyed.
Thank you to the staff of University of Northern British Columbia Hospital. Jubilee Lodge, Renal unit. Michelle Worth for your continued support, Also, a very special Thank You to The Peters family for the support during this difficult time. Memorial service will be held for Judy, March 18, 2023 at 2:00 PM Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness’s 4336 15 Th Ave Prince George B.C
KELSEY PEREIRA
2x51.5
PGC002605
Misch,BeverlyA.
July19,1961-February18,2023
Withgreatsorrowandsadness,weannouncethepassing ofourbelovedBeverly.Bevissurvivedbyherloving husband,Glen;motherandfather,CharlieandJoyce; sonsJonathan(Sarah),Joshua(Dawn),andJared (Ashley);daughterKelsey(Chris);brothersTom(Susie) andRoy(Benita);andhersixteengrandchildren.Bevwas, firstandforemost,achildofGodandadevotedand lovingwife,mother,daughter,sister,grandmotherand friend.Bevwasapassionateteacherwholovedher studentsandtouchedmanylivesatalltheschoolswhere shetaught.A"CelebrationofLife&MemorialService"will beheldonSaturday,March18th,2023,from2:00-4:00 p.m.atPrinceGeorgeEvangelicalFreeChurch.Family andfriendsareinvitedtocomejoininprayerandshare fondmemoriesandstories.
Evan Mitzel
April 26, 1940February 23, 2023
With broken hearts we announce the passing of Evan Mitzel, Beloved Husband of Debbie on February 23, 2023. Prededeceased by mother Vivian, father Maxwell. Survived by loving wife Debbie, daughter Laurie (Terry), granddaughters Kelsey (Bryon), Sara (Krys), greatgrandchildren Brixon and Brynlee. In laws, Jen (Stu), Lib, Carole, Tom (Joanne), many nephews and nieces. No Service by request. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Parkinsons Society of B.C.
Lance Alan Odiorne
April 18, 1963-March 1, 2023
The Family of Lance Odiorne wish to inform you of his passing on March 1, 2023.
A memorial service will be held at The Gathering Place in the College of New Caledonia, Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Canadian Cancer Society.
Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.
A Celebration of Life April 1, 2023, 1:00 pm
Donald E. Ford
March 24th 1933 Tisdale, SKOctober 16th 2022 Prince George, BC
As a young man, Don arrived in Prince George, BC in 1952 looking for work. After a number of years trying his hand at everything from the lumber industry, a gas station and warehousing, he settled in with Sun Life as a sales representative and retired after 34 years.
Don was very active in his community from being a coach for the Columbus Hotel Fastball team and a valuable member of The Third Avenue Bowling Team. Don was also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 65 years and during that time served on many of their committees, one being the successful 1998 Track and Field Championships where he was the Chairman of the arrangements committee. Don has also been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion last Post Committee for over 45 years for memorial services for veterans and a member of the Elks for 26 years.
Don was predeceased by his parents, sister Dorothy, partner Lynda Buckingham, Donna (step-daughter) and Danny (step-son.)
Don is very sadly missed by his daughter, Debbie Bailey (Waine), sons; Tom Ford and David Ford (Rachel), stepdaughters Tammy Miller (Jerry) and Connie Buckingham, Grandsons, Granddaughters, Great Granddaughters and two Great Great Granddaughters.
A Celebration of Life for this wonderful man will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion on April 1st at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to either the Legion or Hospice House would be greatly appreciated.
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
Office (250)997-9003
Home (250)997-5538
Cell (250)990-0152
Genuine Rolex watches, all models, old, new, damaged or parts req’d. Top prices paid subject to viewing. Gold, two-tone, tri-color & Stainless. Available 24/7 250-612-1808
Wanted
BUYING OLD JEWELRY, COINS, OLD MONEY, COIN COLLECTIONS, 9999 BARS & COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, COIN SETS, WORLD $$$ COLLECTIONS ++ TODD 25O 864 3521
Collectibles & Classic Cars
QUICK PAY
For all gold, Estate jewelry, scrap or unwanted, coins & currency, antiques, Rolex. Unbeatable pricing, privacy assured. (250) 612-1808 24/7
BUYING COIN COLLECTIONS! OLD COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, OLD PAPER MONEY, GOLD COINS, SILVER COINS, COIN SETS, COLLECTOR COINS, WORLD MONEY COLLECTIONS, FRANKLIN MINT SETS, ALL 9999 BULLION, COINS, BARS, INGOTS, WAFERS, MAPLE LEAFS ++++ TODD 25O 864 3521
Motorcycles
SUZUKI Bandit 1200, great shape, recent tune-up and brakes. (250)613-5981
2006 HARLEY DAVIDSON Wide Glide. Low mileage. 250-6170443
2002 BMW 1150 RT motorcycle, excellent cond. $5500. (250)5643152 (250)640-8267
Sports Utilities & 4X4s
2012 RAM 1500 4X4 short box, loaded, maroon. Extended 7 yr 160k warranty. 21,000 kms, too much to list. Equity. $39,000 owing. Take over payments. 250301.0221, 250-967-4268
Trucks & Vans
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
Out Of Town Legal/Public Notices
Amenities Next to Eagle Point Golf (Kamloops) 985K Will carry mortgage View Realtor.ca 250-573-3346 e-mail biffsbenson@yahoo.ca
PERSONALS
NOTICEOFPUBLIC REVIEWOPPORTUNITY
TheCollegeofNew Caledonia(CNC)has proposedanew ResearchForest ManagementPlan applicablefrom2023to 2028.ThePlanis availableforreviewand commentuntilApril30, 2023.ThePlanis availablefrom: cnc.bc.ca/research/ forest/planning,or CNC’sPrinceGeorge Campus. Contact: CarlPollard,RPF 250-562-2131ext5358 pollardc1@cnc.bc.ca
Whereas the following are indebted to Special D’s Collision for repair and 5 years storage of personal property, and ought to have been paid, and are still unpaid, notice is hereby given that the said property will be sold to pay the outstanding debt, plus costs of seizure, advertising and sale, one week from the date of this notice on the 9th day of March, 2023, at 2255 Queensway St, Prince George, BC KRT TRANSPORT INC 2004 FORD F350 1FTSX31P84ED43049 $30023.17
Please recycle this newspaper.
Please recycle this newspaper.
Highest or any bid not necessarily accepted. Viewing and bids may be submitted to 2255 Queensway St, Prince George, BC. (250) 612-3939.
Please recycle this newspaper.
Please recycle this newspaper.
Please recycle this newspaper. Please recycle this newspaper.
1. Half-conscious states
Unnatural
Deep regret
Rogue
Taken without permission
An alternative
After B
Partner to flowed
Weekday
Body part
World’s longest river
C. Canada indigenous peoples
Japanese seaport
Most unclothed
33. Small grouper fish
34. Soluble ribonucleic acid
35. Distinguishing sound
38. French realist painter
39. Popular beer brand
40. Views
44. God depicted as a bull 45. Relieve
46. Residue after burning
47. Habitation
Poe’s middle name
Japanese title
TV series installation (abbr.)
Beloved country singer
Single unit
Develop
Traveled through the snow
WAREHOUSEMAN’S LIEN ACT
Four decorating tips for a stylish hallway HOMES
Decoratingahallway canprovequite challenging, especiallyifit’s particularlylongand narrow Addsome charactertothisoft-neglectedpart ofyourhomewiththesesimple styletips
1.Beboldwithpatternsandcolours. Havefunwithtexturesandcolours togiveyourhallwaysome personality.Whenchoosingyour paintorwallpaper,keepinmindthat lightcolourssuchaspastelpink,sky blueandpalegreenaregreatfor achievingabright,luminous atmosphere,whiledarkertoneslike deeppurple,navyblueandpine greencreateamorecozyfeel
2.Showcaseyourartcollection.Why nottransformyourhallwayintoa
customminiatureartgallery? Personalizethespacewithafamily photowall,orframedifferentsizes ofartworkforaneclecticlook.
3.Createstoragespace. Makethemostof underusedspaceby equippingyourhallwaywithshelves, hooksandother storagesystems Just becarefultonotclutter theareaorimpede circulationthroughthe hallwaywithitems thataretoobulky
4.Lightitup.Ifyour hallwayisstuckinthe shadows,makeitmore invitingbyadding somelightfixtures
Createawarmatmospherewitha classicceilinglight,orputupsome stringlightsforafairy-taleglow
If you have a small entranceway, you probably struggle to keep it organized without makingitfeelcluttered.Herearesometipstomaximizethespace
•Wallhooks.Hangyourcoats,bagsandhatsinstylewithanassortmentofhooksalong thewall Goforaretrofeelwithbigdotsarrangedatdifferentheights,oroptforamore traditionalstylewithaneatlineofhooksorpegs
•Bookshelves. Shelving units can do more than just hold books Put one in your entrywaytostoreshoes,bagsandanythingelseyouwant.
•Storage bench. This piece doesdoubleduty:itgivesyou a place to stash your outdoor gearandsomewheretositwhile youputonyourshoes.
•Console table. If you need a place to toss your keys and mailwhenyoucomein,ahigh butslimconsoletableisagreat choice. Place decorative boxes underneath to hide things you wanttokeephandy.
•Floating shelves. A shelf placed high above your hooks, storage bench or console is a great place to put baskets or boxes to hold things you don’t regularlyuse
By being smart about how you design your space, you’ll make your entryway functional, organizedandstylish.
GO FOR GOLD.
Tips for marketing your home to millennial buyers
These days, it’s important to appeal to millennial buyers when putting your home up for sale Born between the years 1980 and 2000, this generation is becoming the largest demographic in the country buyinghouses,accountingfor49percentoffirst-time homebuyers Here’s how to get the attention of this youngbutpowerfulsegmentofthehousingmarket
1.Makeyourhomemove-inready.Becauseoftheir busy lifestyles and limited financial resources, millennialswanttobuyturnkeypropertiestheycan move into right away rather than fixer-uppers they’ll have to put time and moneyintorestoring.
2.Createanenticingonlinelisting.Sinceover90percentof today’s buyers find homes using the internet, it’s important to perfect your property’s online listing. Consider hiring a professional to help you stage and take photos of your home
3.Include eco-friendly features Millennials tend to be more concerned about environmental issues than their parents; they’re looking for “green” homes that are energy efficient, incorporate sustainable materials and include
Electrical safety in your home following a flood
specialfeatureslikesolarpanels
4.Usethelatestrealestatetechnology.Thefirstgeneration to grow up with the internet, millennialsrely on technology to obtain information, communicate and make transactions Make sure your agent uses thelatestmobileapps,virtualtoursande-signature technologies,andhasastrongsocialmediapresence
Appealing to millennials may require extra effort, but it’sworthensuringthatyourhomeiscatchingtheeye ofallinterestedpotentialbuyers
If your home is flooded, you must take care not to get electrocuted. Water could cause major damage to your electricalsystemandmakeyourhomeadangerzone Followthesetipstostaysafeafteraflood.
•Don’tenterareasofyourhomewhereyoususpectwater rose higher than the electrical plugs Wait until a licensed electrician or the electrical company has cut off yourpower
•Assumethatanyelectricalappliancesorelectronicsthat were underwater are now ruined. This also applies to plugs,wiringandcircuitbreakers
•Have an electrician do a thorough inspection of your electricalsystembeforeturningitbackon.
If you come into contact with floodwaters, you may be electrocuted. Never enter a flooded home alone and stay awayfromareasofyourhomethatareunderwateruntila licensedelectricianhasinspectedthem
