ON THE TRADITIONAL TERRITORY OF THE LHEIDLI T’ENNEH
THURSDAY, March 30, 2023
PGCITIZEN CA
Former resident ‘high risk’
Saskatchewan RCMP are warning the public about a 45-year-old former Prince George resident who is at a “high risk to reoffend.”
On March 13, Brent Adair Habetler was charged with committing an indecent act at the Lloydminster swimming pool. A short time later, Lloydminster RCMP located Habetler outside a local daycare He was subsequently arrested and charged with breach of release conditions.
In 2000, Habetler was arrested in Prince George for two counts of indecent exposure. However, one charge was later dropped and Habetler was acquitted of the other In July 2000, Habetler spoke to the Prince George Free Press about how the accusation had upset his life
“It’s got to be one of the worst things to be accused of,” he was quoted “I’d rather be accused of anything else.”
Habetler is now scheduled to appear in Lloydminster, Alta , court on April 4 for his recent charges.
COUGARS
Playoffs start Friday night at CN Centre
PAGE 16 KINGS
Playoff games next week at Kopar Arena PAGE 17
Pat Roderick lost her son James last summer.
“I’ve been so upset it took me months to write his obituary because it’s still so hard to believe,” Roderick said. “People think overdoses are suicide but they’re really getting killed by fentanyl ” James, who died August 1, 2022, worked on the oil rigs and came home on weekends
“Jamie worked hard during the week and partied hard on the weekends,” Roderick said. “My doctor keeps telling me ‘people take drugs to get high, not to die’ People think all drug users are junkies but that wasn’t Jamie. He just liked to party.”
Roderick said Jamie, who was 40 years old when he died, had a good job and considered his boss his brother, he had family, friends, a house and was a kind and fun-loving person
When Roderick was diagnosed with Leukemia on Dec 1, 2019, Jamie donated his compatible stem cells on June 10, 2020. The procedure put Roderick’s cancer into remission
“After the procedure, Jamie told me to tell my doctor that if he could help someone else by donating again he would,” Roderick said “That’s the kind of person he was I had my son for 40 years, I often think of the mothers who have lost their teenage children and my heart breaks for them ”
Roderick says she’ll always carry the guilt of losing her son to an overdose
“And please tell people’s family members that it’s not their fault,” she said “You keep thinking, I should’ve watched out for this, I should’ve watched out for that but you can’t watch out for fentanyl.”
PRINCEGEORGECITIZEN
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Saksatchewan RCMP are warning the public about Brent Adair Habetler
Residents winning big
An ordinary trip to the gas station turned out to be anything but for Tamara Amyotte and Louie Rezansoff.
Their spur-of-the-moment decision to pick up an 88 Fortunes Scratch & Win ticket netted them $100,000
The Prince George residents purchased the ticket from Super Save Gas on Victoria Street. They both look forward to helping out family and friends and Rezansoff is going to put a down payment on a house. Amyotte looks forward to purchasing some new furniture with her portion. ***
The Prince George Cougars closed out the 2022-23 regular season Saturday with
a Mega 50/50 draw. The lucky winner was Violet Froese who took home a whopping $72,188 of over $144,000 raised. Those funds will be going directly to cancer research and treatment right in Prince George ***
A winning ticket worth more than $23,000 was sold in Prince George for Saturday’s Lotto 6/49 draw
That ticket had five of the six numbers, plus the bonus It would have been worth a lot more but the prize had to be split 11 ways, between another winner in Vancouver, someone on the Prairies, six tickets in Ontario and another two in Quebec
Tamara Amyotte and Louie Rezansoff
Deadly Quesnel shooter granted day parole
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A man serving a federal sentence for the shooting death of his son has been granted day parole.
In issuing their decision on March 17, a two-person Parole Board of Canada panel noted that Roger Wayne Evans did not think full parole would be in his best interest.
Evans, 66, was sentenced in May 2022 to two-and-a-half years in prison for the death of Dale Evans sometime over the
night of July 31-August 1, 2018
Based on evidence and testimony presented during a trial on the matter, the two were in the process of moving out of their home about 50 kilometres west of Quesnel but had also been drinking For reasons not explained a rifle was lying on the kitchen table amid several empty and full beer cans.
With the intent of carrying it out to a trailer for safe keeping, Roger Evans had picked up the rifle without checking to see if the safety was on or if it was loaded
Job losses reduced at Prince George Pulp
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
On Jan. 11, when Canfor Pulp announced the pending closure of its pulp line at Prince George Pulp and Paper mill, it was feared 300 jobs would be permanently lost.
Of those positions slated to be eliminated, 220 were union jobs
But because employees at the three Canfor pulp mills in the city have accepted early retirement packages or have decided to leave the company, that layoff number had been reduced to about 90 unionized workers
Chuck LeBlanc, president of the Private and Public Workers of Canada Local 9, said 32 PPWC members have accepted early retirement packages, which the company has extended to employees 60 years old or older who will now retire this year
A similar offer was made to Unifor Local 603, which represents the unionized workers at Northwood Pulp Mill, and LeBlanc said about 30 Northwood employees accepted retirement packages
Another 28 union positions were made available when workers decided to leave
for other jobs, some in the city and some in other locations
The announced closure also affects about 80 Canfor Pulp management and union-exempt staff.
The Citizen is awaiting a response from Canfor Pulp to confirm how many of those workers will be losing their jobs.
LeBlanc said those accepting packages will apply to the provincial government’s Bridging to Retirement program to help forestry workers affected by the decline in the forest industry
The program will provide up to $75,000 for eligible employees and contractors whose jobs are dependent on the pulp mill
“We would have liked to have seen packages offered down to a younger age, maybe 55, but the company wasn’t willing to go that far at this point,” LeBlanc explained
“They’re going to follow what was in our collective agreement and very little else but the bottom line ”
It went off and his son, who had been walking in front of his father as they were leaving the home, was struck in the back with a 308-calibre bullet
Dale Evans fell immediately and, when checked by his father, showed no signs of life.
Lacking a landline and out of cellphone range, Roger Evans could not call for help from the home and, according to his statement to police, felt he was too drunk to drive
Dale Evans was 41 years old at the time of his death
Roger Evans has since acknowledged long-running trouble with alcohol and has remained sober for about three years, according to the decision
However, a large portion of that time has been in an institution with “immediate access to supports and services,” leading the panel to conclude Evans would be better off on day parole than on full parole
Evans has been accepted into a halfway house with a residential substance abuse program and with leave privileges dependent on his behaviour
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
Support group helps long COVID sufferers
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
For two years, the Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society has offered a support group for long-term COVID sufferers looking for answers.
Brain fog, fatigue, shortness of breath, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, irritable bowel syndrome, body pain, trouble sleeping, anxiety, depression – they’re all symptoms of long COVID
The hospice puts on group sessions every Monday afternoon to connect COVID-19 long-haulers, both in-person and virtually to offer support and grief counselling.
“There’s a huge grief component to getting long COVID. Most of the people getting it are incredibly active, high-achieving, multitasking professional people and long COVID cuts them off at the knees,” explained Denise Torgerson, the society’s community programs manager “They go from being incredibly active to ‘Oh my God, I can’t even go for a walk around the block. It’s really debilitating and devastating ’” Torgerson said the weekly group sessions encourage people to share their
experiences and let out their frustrations and perhaps have a laugh or two hearing first-person stories
“It’s a mix of resource-based, griefbased and camaraderie – they’re lonely,” Torgerson said.
“The illness itself is compounded by what people are suggesting, that you literally do nothing, so it’s kind of like Groundhog Day, everybody’s pretty bored and it’s stress related The more stress there is, the more symptoms will show their ugly heads ”
The original participants when the group first met in 2021 have all since left and are back to their jobs
The current group has about 30 people and most of the meetings have 10 or fewer participants.
“We’ve just had a big surge, last week we had five or six people call out of the blue,” said Torgerson
“The government and medical system are acting like it’s over but there’s new people being diagnosed with this all the time They’re shutting down the clinics and not giving many resources to it, but it’s still going on ”
For more information, go to the website or call 250-563-2551
to arrest shooting suspect
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
The long arm of the law extended from Delta to Prince George last Friday afternoon.
That led to the arrest of a youth suspect after police surrounded a vehicle in a fast-food restaurant parking lot in the 1000 block of Central Street West
Delta police took the youth into custody after making the trip to Prince George to apprehend the suspect, who is believed to be connected to a shooting Dec. 29 in South Delta
The youth, whose age prohibits
identification, was apparently involved in the early-morning incident after police received reports of shots fired into an occupied residence in the 5300 block of 4A Avenue in Tsawwassen.
Delta Police later arrested a youth from Surrey known to police, who faces several firearms charges
There were no injuries as a result of that shooting
While it is unusual for a Lower Mainland city police force to send officers to north central B.C. to make an arrest, there are no jurisdictional boundaries in this case.
“Typically we would have an agency of jurisdiction try and do an
arrest but our people have some specific knowledge to the point where we decided to send our investigators to Prince George,” said Delta Police acting inspector James Sandberg.
“We are sworn provincially so there’s no concerns about jurisdiction ”
Three police vehicles provided by Prince George RCMP were used for the takedown. Sandberg confirmed the Delta officers involved in the arrest flew to Prince George. Sandberg said the second youth arrested will likely make a first court appearance in Prince George - with files from the Delta Optimist
Join our Foster Caregiver Community!
There are children and youth in your community who need temporary, nurturing homes.
We have an urgent need for foster caregivers who are:
• First Nations, Metis, Inuit
• Interested in providing care for sibling groups
• Passionate about engaging and caring for youth
• Interested in supporting children and youth who identify as LGBTQ2S+
• Skilled in caring for children and youth with complex support needs
• Interested in providing weekend respite care for children and youth
If you are interested in becoming a foster caregiver, please call 1 250-785-6021, extension 221 or visit FosterNow.ca to learn more.
ANTI-RACISM AWARD
A Prince George woman was one of two winners who were recognized for outstanding work at the B C Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards.
Karelya Medialdea, the community connection co-ordinator at Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society of Prince George (IMSS), was honoured in the Intercultural Trust category for outstanding work in building intercultural trust and understanding and reducing racism and hate between communities.
With IMSS, Medialdea launched a program to increase the capacity of affected rural communities to address racism and discrimination by providing free legal education about human rights
OUTDOOR SKILL COURSE
The B C Wildlife Federation is offering a three-day course in Prince George for women to learn essential skills for enjoying the outdoors safely, including the basics for aspiring hunters, anglers, backwoods photographers and campers.
Becoming an Outdoors Woman begins May 12 and runs through May 14 at Ness Lake Bible Camp
Expert instructors will provide hands-on training in activities ranging from archery and wild game care, foraging and fly-fishing, photography and watercolour painting, survival and first aid, how to back up a truck and trailer
and use a chainsaw
For more information and to register online go to bcwf bc ca/bow/
FRANCOPHONE HONOUR
Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George had an even bigger reason than usual to celebrate British Columbia Francophonie Day last week
Adrian Dix, B.C.’s Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, presented the award for the success of its Welcoming Francophone Community Initiative
“This is a great recognition of the work done by our dedicated team to kindly and cordially welcome francophones from other areas to our beautiful region of Prince George The key to effective retention and settlement is being able to rely on a thriving community,” said CCFPG executive director Sarah Maurice.
BETTER CELL COVERAGE
Northern British Columbians are getting better highway coverage to help improve safety for travellers
The province is investing $75 million through the Connecting British Columbia program, administered by Northern Development Initiative Trust, to help fund projects that will expand cellular to at least another 550 kilometres by 2027 Projects underway include 252 km and two rest areas to complete continuous coverage along Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert
Heavy-duty trucks changing to hydrogen-diesel
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Hydra Energy achieved another significant milestone in its Prince George project rollout by signing with eight commercial truck fleets in the region.
This represents 82 Class 8 trucks to be retrofitted using Hydra’s hydrogen-diesel, co-combustion conversion technology. Once converted by Hydra installation partner, First Truck Centre, these trucks will refuel at
the world’s largest hydrogen refuelling station Hydra is currently building in Prince George to be operational in 2024, which uses green hydrogen produced on site by two 5-megawatt electrolysers powered with hydroelectricity
“Upon signing our first commercial fleet customer in Prince George and breaking ground on our local refuelling station last year, we had an initial goal to secure 65 heavy-duty trucks to leverage the new station once operational next year We’re pleased to surpass this
target with the signing of these eight fleets highlighting the continued interest in hydrogen trucking and the benefits it delivers for fleets of all sizes, even with heavy payloads in challenging weather and road conditions like those found in Northern B C , ” explained Hydra Energy CEO Jessica Verhagen “We look forward to working with First Truck Centre to start converting these trucks about six months prior to our station’s opening and to continuing to work with the City of Prince George as the flagship stop in the Western Canadian Hydrogen Corridor ”
Mine processing plant construction underway
Having secured the permits it needs to build its gold and silver mine 160 kilometres southwest of Prince George, Artemis Gold has started construction of the Blackwater Gold processing plant
A project update provided by the Vancouver company revealed that by the end of February, close to 63 per cent of the detailed engineering for the Blackwater plant had been completed by the
contractor, Sedgman Canada Ltd.
Sedgman has hired 80 full-time employees in its Vancouver office who have been assigned to the Blackwater mine and all of the key positions have been filled. Over
the next month, Sedgman employees will finalize site establishment and commence civil works that will lead to the first concrete pours to create the processing plant’s foundation.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29TH
Saturday Evening Bingo at 6:00pm
Centralizing encampments isn’t a solution
Prince George mayor and council’s recent proposal to revise the bylaw to centralize homeless encampments has me worried for a number of reasons.
I believe our local government is under the illusion they can corral all homeless folks in Prince George like cattle to the Lower Patricia Blvd encampment known as Moccasin Flats.
Like the rest of us who are fortunate enough to have homes to live in, the un-housed also have the right like us to choose where they want to live based on safety, comfort, convenience and familiarity. And they will live in places where they will have their needs met
Why is it a priority to kick folks out of Millennium Park so the city can restore it? To me, it would make sense to keep the encampment there because it’s accessible to all kinds of services and supports downtown
Instead of having the eye sore at
Millennium Park and other parts of the city, let’s clean out all of the homeless in visible places and move them to Moccasin Flats – out of sight, out of mind This is how I see the objective of this current plan
The huge liabilities associated with this proposed bylaw revision completely blows my mind What would be the outcome of forcing our city’s homeless to reside in a confined area with no running water, toilets, showers and heat?
Folks who left Moccasin Flats did so because of safety issues. Like any community there are good and not so good people who try to reside together. Having an option to move is a right that everyone is entitled to.
I often hear the question “why don’t the homeless go to the shelters?” Couples, people with dogs, outstanding peer conflicts and mental illnesses make it impossible for un-housed folks to live successfully in group settings
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
PUT NOTICES BACK
I support James Steidle’s comments about the City of Prince George not using the Citizen to provide public notices anymore. I wrote to City Hall some months ago asking them to review their policy not to put public notices in the Citizen anymore and have received no response
Assuming people will watch the city’s web site for developments is a “navel gazing” mentality Public notices should be put in a variety of public places, just like the free copy of the Prince George Citizen I pick up once a week with my mail. I may be in the minority of people interested in these things, just like I am a member of the minority who always vote at all levels of government elections and referendums Once again, I ask the mayor and council to re-consider the decision to eliminate the local newspaper from their historic public notice protocols.
John Irving, Prince George
WHITCOMBE WRONG
In response to Mr Whitcombe’s column regarding David Johnstons’ appointment as special rapporteur, it is easy to see that Mr. Whitcombe is missing some key aspects of the issue
This appointment is to investigate the possibility of Chinese interference in the last two Canadian elections. Maintaining our democratic institutions and our collective belief in the process is of the utmost importance to the foundation of our democracy
The key point Mr. Whitcombe fails to address is that to restore faith in the democratic process is that the Justin Trudeau government needs to open a transparent public inquiry into the issue. Instead, Prime Minister Trudeau appointed Mr Johnston in a closed process for a closed investigation while maintaining a Liberal government filibuster to prevent the chief of staff from publicly appearing before the
And then there’s the issue of addiction. We are in the epicentre of a toxic drug crisis. Most of our homeless addicts do drugs to cope with the trauma of not having a home, not having food, warmth, safety, security and community connection
My neighbourhood, the Millar Addition, is going into our third year of living next door to Moccasin Flats. The neighbourhood is divided on the topic of the encampment. From day one, there has been a huge divide between the encampment advocates and a number of the neighbours This disconnect has been very awkward and difficult in terms of finding common ground and working together in an integrated manner for the higher good of everyone involved
As I was sitting in the council chamber gallery on March 13 listening to mayor, council and administration discuss the topic of a centralized approach I was struck with the realization that there was
a huge component missing. Were the service providers and advocates invited to collaborate in this process? And to me, the most important group has been excluded from these discussions - our marginalized population
The City of Prince George has been placed in a very difficult position of having to assume responsibilities that in my opinion can be shouldered through provincial and federal funding initiatives But this takes time to sort through. And it takes the cooperation and spirit of all stakeholders to put differences aside and come together There are way more than two options to adequately deal with our housing crisis Anything is possible if we have the collective will and commitment to make Prince George a better place We have the resources and expertise to do this, so let’s get busy and make this happen.
Diane Nakamura is a Prince George writer
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.
committee responsible Furthermore, Mr. Johnston does not have an impeccable record He is literally a member of the Trudeau Foundation, which received funds from the Chinese government, funds that the foundation had to return recently This is clearly a perception of a conflict of interest.
Lisa Handley, Prince George
TAXPAYERS THE PREY
I enjoy your Court Docket reports and read with interest all the criminal characters wandering the streets I recognize some as they scout my neighborhood for “opportunities ” Another interesting addition would be how many prolific offenders are released each week on the “promise to appear,” which is the court’s wry way of insuring ongoing convenient employment for all policing/legal agencies, while we taxpayers remain the public prey items on the menu
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Catch and release works for fish, but is an abdication of good government. As Plato said, “the worst form of injustice is pretended justice.”
Allan Wilson, Prince George
CHANGES NEEDED
The College of Physicians must take some of the blame for the shortage of doctors, due to them favoring only the doctors trained in U K and some other former colonial countries This organization has become an old boys club The government must step in and make changes on this important issue.
There are many qualified doctors and nurses who awaiting eagerly to work in Canada
Aparent recently stood up in a School District 57 (Prince George) board meeting and shared his opinion He said, “Our education system is not doing a whole lot to provide our children with the necessary life skills and the education that they deserve We are here to make our children have purpose again and be confident in who they are and get the education they deserve without the confusion ”
What was particularly disturbing was a list of “facts” that would be virtually impossible to verify. The speaker stated, “Bullying is up” and “The amount of children that is confused about their gender is up ”
Up as compared to what? Bullying went largely unreported in the past What was once considered tolerable behaviour, for example, making racist and homophobic slurs, would rightly result in school suspensions today Bullying has not been eliminated from our schools or in the lives of our children, but we are hopefully more mindful of forms of harassment, and more
LESSONS IN LEARNING
GERRY CHIDIAC
proactive in dealing with these issues
Similarly, how can we say that children are more confused about their gender? Few of us openly explored our gender in the past because we all knew that if we did, we’d get bullied. Given the more open atmosphere that has been created through the courageous efforts of those who challenge gender norms in our society, our young people have greater freedom to explore, and ultimately greater clarity, with regard to their respective genders
When it comes to helping young people find meaning and learn valuable life skills, I do have some data that can be analyzed and scrutinized In my Social Justice 12 class, we remove the pretty wrappings from the history lessons many of us learned in the past. We seek to understand how social injustice can lead to
genocide, why genocide happens, how we can respond effectively to genocidal tendencies in society, and ultimately how we can prevent genocide in the future At the end of the course, I ask my students to evaluate their experience so that I can continue to improve the program
The data I collected last semester is consistent with my findings over the years One hundred per cent of the students enjoyed the course, found the academic and behavioural expectations clear, and would recommend the course to other students Seventy-eight per cent said they were more aware of suffering and genocide in the world, 50 per cent said they were more likely to speak out when they heard discriminatory comments, and 28 per cent said they were more likely to take action to make the world more just.
When I ask students what memories of the class stand out to them, two assignments are frequently mentioned One is our study of Man’s Search For Meaning, the account of survival in Nazi concentration camps by Viktor Frankl. The other is a research project in which students have
the freedom to do their own research on social justice issues that they find interesting These vary from investigating the negative aspects of abortion to the challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community As long as students do appropriate research, present their findings in a respectful manner, and there is respectful classroom discussion, my responsibilities as a professional educator are met, and my students learn of the importance of honouring diversity in a democratic society.
I am a typical teacher, teaching a typical class in a typical school to ordinary adolescents I am teaching the skills our young people need in the future and I am working to instill a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. That is what my colleagues are doing throughout my school, my school district, my province, and throughout my entire profession
Our school systems are far from perfect, but to improve them we need to look at real data.
Truth is not found by arguing from a false premise.
Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George writer
Foreign interference comes in many forms
Every year, the Fraser Institute publishes its ranking of elementary schools in B C And every year, some of the lowest scoring schools are found in the northern and rural regions of the province.
Todd Whitcombe: Foreign interference comes in many forms
The question of foreign interference in Canadian politics remains a hot topic in Ottawa
The leaders of the opposition parties want to know what the Prime Minister knew, when he knew it, and what did he do about it
Shades of Watergate lie in those sentiments They certainly make it seem like the prime minister did something unsavory or shady Yet they could bite all politicians.
AS I SEE IT TODD WHITCOMBE
What did Pierre Poilievre know about the Airbus deal? What was he told and when? What did he do about it? What did the Green Party caucus know about the ousting of their duly elected leader? When did they know it? What backroom deals were struck by Jagmeet Singh to support the Liberals? And when? For politicians, questions abound.
The question of foreign interference in our election shouldn’t be about shading dealings and foreign governments undermining our democracy. I truly believe that
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
PROTECT WATERSHEDS
In November, Premier David Eby promised “accelerated action” on implementing the Old Growth Strategic Review’s recommendations Were my hopes that we’d reached the end of decades of over-cutting wrong?
Well, the NDP commissioned it and has not meaningfully acted 100+ days into his leadership and 2 5+ years into the review’s recommended timeline. Weren’t deferrals meaningful? Yes, mostly. The problem is many forestry-dependent Indigenous nations would much
rather have been consulted initially Couple this with no funding allocation for transitioning forest economics from timber values to ecosystem health -- the foundational paradigm shift the review called for -- and the flaws rapidly multiply along with uncertainty Specific information on which deferrals were enacted and whether these exemplified the most at-risk systems is scant. No plan exists to protect at-risk species or ecosystems in B.C. The deferral patchwork doesn’t necessarily contain functioning systems. Half the deferral list is still potentially on the chopping block
for better or worse, Canadians go to the polls and vote their conscience No one can buy off the Canadian public
The question should be “Is there any chance in a globalized economy to stop foreign actors from influencing our elections?” I would suggest the answer is no
Consider the meeting between Joe Biden and Justin Trudeau last week The U.S. president said “our destinies are intertwined and they’re inseparable I mean this from the bottom of my heart. There is no more reliable ally, no more steady friend.”
During the meeting, the U S committed to roughly $250 million dollars to subsidize Canadian and U S companies mining and processing critical minerals for electric vehicles and stationary storage batteries.
That money that will ensure Canadian miners have jobs That money will support and circulate through communities That money that will help get MPs elected
Biden said “We each have what the other needs I’m a little confused on why this is a disadvantage for Canada.”
“We don’t have the minerals to mine, you can mine them. You don’t want to produce, I mean, turn them into product ”
The fact this is all out in the open and friendly doesn’t negate the influence the United States is exerting on the Canadian economy and on our political system
In the modern worldwide economy, can we stop interference? No
And certainly not with a public inquiry.
Todd Whitcombe is a chemistry professor at UNBC.
The new paradigm sees trees as they really are: the most obvious of myriad living beings involved in multi-directional interactions, cycling and storing carbon while interrelating with water, wind, landforms, minerals, and temperatures eco-systemically over time The shift from simply seeing forests in lumber value is massive Considering this, a conservation ecologist should be involved. The review laid out a provincial tri-zone system The zonation, created by decent foresters, differs somewhat from conservation ecology.
The Walker, the Goat, Raush watershed
ecosystems, each with at-risk species, deserve protection By immediately pressuring the province and feds to provide local Indigenous nations and communities economic incentives to protect these valleys, we locals can lead here, providing some degree of certainty for the unborn generations to come With B C leading Canada with more than 2,000 (known) species at risk, and both Canada and B.C. committing to conserving 30 per cent of their land by 2030, it seems timely that Eby accelerates It’s the pedal on right, David. Rob Mercereau, Dunster
Former school board chair speaks out
On March 10, the board of education announcement that Superintendent Cindy Heitman had left the district and was being replaced and on March 11, two highly respected trustees resigned These events should leave the public asking the question why
After only five months into their term of office, trustees Betty Bekkering and Gillian Burnett stated they could no longer support the manner in which the board was functioning. Trustee Burnett described it as “dysfunctional ” Trustee Bekkering stated that members of the board “didn’t seem interested in the role of the trustee They really wanted to concentrate on the operations of the district which is the jurisdiction of the superintendent.”
One can only question what was going on behind the scenes to create this untenable situation
A board of education has specific responsibilities, one of which is to demonstrate it understands its governance role This role is extremely complex It requires working as a team that draws upon and respects the skills and experience each member brings to it.
It requires supporting and respecting its superintendent, its administrative team and its employees and it requires creating a positive organizational culture It requires keeping focussed on the long-term goals and strategic direction of the district. Trustees need to understand the damage that can result when decisions are made that interfere, undermine or create a climate of uncertainty around the management and operation of the district
TheBCGovernmentis helpingmake
Questions need to be asked why this current board of inexperienced trustees announced the replacement of its superintendent just five months after taking office
Superintendent Heitman over the past four years led the district through difficult
and challenging times She made every effort to engage with the community and ensure all voices were heard She has been unwavering in her work to rebuild the district’s relationship with the Indigenous community and in addressing the recommendations of the Special Advisor’s Report.
Through a highly collaborative process, she and her team led the development of the district’s strategic plan At every opportunity, she provided factual data and evidence to help the public understand the academic, social and emotional challenges facing our students She, along with her leadership team, worked tirelessly to put in place the resources, support structures and strategies needed to address these challenges and meet the needs of all students in the district School District 57 has lost a highly competent, committed and valued member of its administrative team.
In order to attract, recruit and retain qualified people to work in School District 57, the board in its leadership and governance role must promote and model a positive, collaborative working and learning environment. Its decisions must not contribute to uncertainty and instability. The public needs to hold a board accountable for the climate it creates and the decisions it makes
A pair of lumber producers are at loggerheads over the sale of equipment salvaged from a Fort St. James sawmill. Vancouver-based Teal-Jones Group is suing Hampton Lumber Mills-Canada Ltd. claiming a salvage company Hampton had hired as part of dismantling the old Conifex sawmill damaged equipment it had agreed to purchase for $2.2 million.
According to a notice of claim filed March 14 in B C Supreme Court, TealJones had hired a contractor of its own and had begun to remove the equipment in November 2021 only to see a Prince George-based scrapping service, Allen’s Scrap and Salvage Ltd., allegedly damage the items while it was carrying out work
on the site around June 2022
Teal-Jones says it had intended to install the equipment - a debarker ring for a large canter line, motor control centres for the large and small canter lines and electrical components - at a sawmill it was
building in Louisiana but it was rendered useless and forced the company to source other equipment for the mill
The company alleges that Hampton failed to properly instruct Allen’s to stay away from the equipment and to make
sure it was not damaged In the alternative, Teal-Jones alleges Allen’s Scrap intentionally damaged the equipment and was using heavy equipment near electrical components knowing they had not properly been disconnected.
Teal-Jones is seeking a range of damages.
Both Hampton and Allen’s are named as defendants. The allegations have not been tested in court and the defendants have not filed responses to Teal-Jones’ claim
In 2019, Hampton, whose parent company is based in Oregon, bought the Fort St James sawmill and the related timber rights from Conifex Construction of a new sawmill began after the B C forests minister approved the deal later the same year
Team targeting offenders
Prince George is to be among a dozen “hubs” across the province where the B.C. government plans to have teams of prosecutors, parole officers and police targeting repeat violent offenders up and running by early May.
The provincial government says it has put $25 million over three years toward the effort.
In all, it aims to have 21 Crown counsel and 21 support staff in place by the end of this month with two of those Crown counsel based in Prince George.
In turn B C Corrections is looking at mid-April to identify nine correctional supervisors, nine probation officers based in correctional centres for “enhanced release planning,” 12
probation officers based in community corrections offices to support the teams and four officials to “develop, co-ordinate and evaluate the program.”
As for police, the Ministry of Public Safety said the ministry is “working closely with police” and is “confident” police across the province will have made the necessary preparations to fully participate by the end of April
B.C. Liberal opposition public safety critic Mike Morris said it is a step that should have been taken three or four years ago
“We would have had fully-functioning teams up and running and in place by now and probably would be far fewer and less victims of crime,” Morris said
Wetlands purchased
Following a fundraising campaign,
The Nature Trust of BC has completed the purchase of 235 hectares of wetland east of Prince George, putting the property under its protective wing.
About 100 kilometres east of the city and across the Fraser River from Sinclair Mills, the land is part of the 2,000-hectare Meteor Lake Wetlands, one of the largest
wetlands in the upper Fraser River
“The land contains rare peatland ecosystems which absorb tremendous amounts of carbon. In addition to its climate benefits, the property provides habitat, breeding grounds, and food for threatened mammals, birds, and amphibians like the endangered White Sturgeon,” Nature Trust said in a statement
PHOTO
The inside of Conifex’s Fort St James sawmill in 2019
Retired social worker pays tribute to pioneers
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
She almost never goes downtown anymore but on a sunny Tuesday afternoon Bibiane Francis thought it might be worth the trip.
It was just a happy accident that she was walking down Third Avenue nearing the corner of Quebec Street where the Bridget Moran statue sits on a bench, a symbol of unending advocacy and a constant reminder that one social worker can make a big difference
Mayor Simon Yu was addressing the small crowd gathered before him for Social Work Week and he said a few words of appreciation for all that social workers do in the City of Prince George and Bibiane listened
Then social worker Charles Fraser recited the poem he had written for his friend and mentor Bridget Moran, whom he had met at the College of New Caledonia when he switched careers at 40 years old so he could make a difference in the community he loved Moran was his mentor and his friend and he admired her strong voice demanding more services for those in need and Bibiane listened. Others spoke, acknowledging the BC Social Worker of the Year, Heather Lamb, for all her hard work advocating for the disabled and Bibiane listened.
The ceremony ended with a travel-mug toast to the social workers in the community and Bibiane listened.
And as people milled about, enjoying the extraordinary warmth of the sunshine, Bibiane, Lheidli T’enneh Elder and retired social worker, sought out Fraser because she was so moved by his tribute poem to Bridget Moran And then for the first time Bibiane spoke.
“As an Indigenous person I need to stand up more,” Bibiane said. “I need to get out and advocate more ” Bibiane never knew her culture, she said, because when your mother goes to residential school, language, identity and
traditions disappear.
“We were so lost,” Bibiane said She felt a deep connection to Mary John, who was an advocate whose dedicated community service focused on language and cultural revitalization To Bibiane, Moran and John were synonymous as they were advocates for those in need Learning about her culture, traditions, language and history showed Bibiane the way forward to heal from her intergenerational trauma was through her chosen career of advocacy Bibiane took the social services worker program at CNC and was the first recipient of the Mary John Award of
Excellence in 2006 for her advocacy work in community to honour her culture while mentoring others and furthering her deep connection to John and Moran
So on that sunny Tuesday afternoon, Bibiane spoke about how moving the poem was, what an inspiration John has been to her and how much of an impact Moran and her storied history of speaking up for those in need has meant to her
“I spent 13 years working in a transition house because I wanted to make a difference and I know I did that because the women would always come to me to say thank you for caring,” Bibiane said. “All I did was listen They need to be heard ” Bibiane then turned to the Moran statue
“You know, every time I walk by this bench I say ‘thank you, Bridget, thank you for being there and supporting people alongside Mary John’ ”
And as Bibiane made her way to the bench, over the ice and snow, sinking down beside her, Bibiane gratefully smiled at Bridget’s beloved face and quietly said, “thank you, Bridget ”
And very softly and thoughtfully and carefully placed her warm hand upon the book in the hand of the statue that represents so much to her and her people, because during her impactful social work career she heard so much and Bibiane listened.
-- sponsored content -- This job program helps skilled immigranTs geT back To Their pre-arrival professions
Newcomers to Canada don’t have to start from scratch when it comes to getting their careers back on track in their new home
Shedeka Richards Case Manager/ Career Strategist
Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants, a program facilitated by Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC), can help skilled immigrants return to fields of work related to their training with support and resources
“Many newcomers have extensive job experience but aren’t able to land similar work they had prior to arriving in Canada,” ISSofBC case manager and career strategist Shedeka Richards says
“Career Paths helps them position themselves to get interviews and get jobs in their fields ”
The Career Paths program is available for residents of British Columbia and bridges skilled and immigrant professionals to work that makes use of their international experience and training
In Prince George and Cariboo North, the majority of the people Richards works with have specialized training in engineering, architecture, and science Others are professionals in in human resources, counselors, physiotherapists and more
Richards helps clients begin the process of getting re-credentialled in Canada and prepare to enter the local workforce, sharing tips and tricks immigrants might not know
“For example, an engineer doesn’t have to come here and start from scratch to get a job,” Richards says
“What they may not know is that the most important part is to get the process started with their license You can actually put on your resume that you’ve initiated that process and you’ll be able to get jobs ”
Career Paths helps immigrants succeed in finding meaningful employment in their fields They help not just with credentials, but also with matching program participants to mentors in their own fields who can guide them in the process
“We try to get them connected with mentors in their job target field so they can learn about the nuances of the workplace, what hard skills they might need to have, as well as soft skills because every work environment is different,” Richards says
Program participants also receive support and training with interview skills to help them build the confidence to succeed in job interviews There is
also funding available to help cover the costs associated with the process of applying for credentials
Richards acknowledges that the process to find employment in one’s desired field can sometimes be lengthy and urges clients not to lose hope She recently had a client who found a job working in physiotherapy after two years of working toward the goal
“The big bright smiles clients get when they have landed their dream jobs in Canada puts the icing on the cake for me and it fills me with such great joy and pride for this kind of work It can change the life of newcomers in such a meaningful way,” Richards says
“My biggest piece of advice would be that clients should be patient with the process of getting back in their field It doesn’t happen overnight and it comes a bit faster for some But the most passionate clients are the ones who land the jobs even faster,” Richards says
“Your work experience and education obtained from your home country is valuable and will land you that dream job in no time Don’t lose hope even for a second The little steps each day towards that end goal will all be worth it in the end Keep your Canadian goals and dreams alive You will get there ”
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Lheidli T’enneh elder Bibiane Francis was inspired by Bridget Moran and Mary John
New imaging equipment helps UHNBC patients
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
New medical imaging equipment at UHNBC in Prince George allows doctors to peer beneath the skin and track realtime movements in the body to pinpoint obstructions and insert medical devices, resulting in less invasive procedures.
The upgrade in technology is helping women avoid hysterectomies and allowing interventions that give previously infertile women the ability to conceive
children.
“Now that we have this unit, we’re introducing a new procedure for ladies and instead of having a total hysterectomy (to remove the uterus) we can do a very simple procedure in this room that would negate the necessity for a big surgery,” said Debbie Johnston, a clinical resources nurse for medical imaging.
Johnston was Canada’s second certified radiology nurse when she returned to Prince George to work at UHNBC 31 years ago and the diagnostic equipment and
interventional procedures available then, such as an angiogram, were primitive by comparison.
Fluoroscopy utilizes x-ray imaging to provide real-time video of movements in the body to help doctors locate blockages.
The moving images show such things as food being chewed and ingested to diagnose problems with digestion Doctors use monitors to guide precise injections deep into the spine or joints Using contrasting dyes, they can produce a roadmap of the patients anatomy and the screen image guides them as they insert needles, catheters, stents and other medical devices into vessels that supply blood to the legs, stomach and kidneys.
“There are many procedures we can do that do not require surgery,” said Dr. Roshni Patel, a UHNBC interventional radiologist. “Patients come in and have a procedure done through a little hole in their femoral artery and we can put in stents that may mitigate the need to have open surgery to fix blood vessels in the abdomen or legs The patients go home four hours later and they’re up and walking the next day ”
Orthopedic surgeons use fluoroscopy to guide joint replacements or check on healing of broken bones It’s used on kidney dialysis patients who require drains
or tubes to be inserted and for cancer patents who need biopsies or chemotherapy. The state-of-the-art equipment gives doctors the ability to repair aneurisms in blood vessels and remove gall stones without surgery
“We gain access with a needle and then we use the x-ray machine and our knowledge of anatomy to navigate our wires and catheters and tubes through the skin,” said Patel.
Opened in December, the interventional radiology/fluoroscopy suite at UHNBC allows doctors to precisely insert wire catheters to open blocked fallopian tubes in a procedure called recanalization Prior to the new imaging equipment coming to Prince George a year ago, that required a trip to a Vancouver hospital
Men with urinary conditions are also reaping the benefits of a new procedure called prostate artery embolization, to locate blockages and treat problems of incontinence or bladder leakage without surgery, using routine procedures to open up vessels and restore blood flow.
The upgraded fluoroscopy suite at UHNBC has been tripled in size to allow for storage and a four-bed patient preparation/recovery area, replacing a confined three-bed space that had no equipment storage capacity and very little room for doctors and nurses to work on a patient
Healthy North y
PRINCE GEORGE COVID-19 & FLU IMMUNIZATION INFO
Spring Booster scheduling:
B.C. will be offering a spring booster dose to people most at risk of severe illness 6 months after their last COVID-19 vaccine. Personalized invitations will be sent out in the coming weeks.
People who should get a spring booster include: People in long-term care or waiting for admission
Older adults and elders:
80 years and older
70 years and older and Indigenous Adults (18+) who are moderately to severely immunocompromised
Clinic Hours:
When: 7 days per week (10 am to 3:40 pm)
Where: Prince George COVID-19 Testing and Immunization Centre, 175-1600 15th Ave. In the Parkwood Mall in the corner to the right of the movie theatre, free parking on site.
Details: By appointment, limited availability. Register and book through the get vaccinated system https://www. getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca/s/ or call 1-833-838-2323.
Pharmacy: A local pharmacy can provide your vaccine. Register and book through the province’s get vaccinated system. Visit the https://www.bcpharmacy.ca/patients for more information
The Northern Health PostCOVID care team is wrapping up services on March 31, 2023. However, provincial post-COVID services will continue virtually through the Provincial Health Services Authority.
If you are experiencing prolonged symptoms that could be post-COVID, speak to your healthcare provider about a referral.
Additionally, visit the PHSA website ?for more information on symptom management http:// www.phsa.ca/health-info/post-covid-19-care-recovery and the recent changes to Provincial services available for Post COVID care http://www phsa ca/our-services/programsservices/post-covid-19-care-network/evolving-the-model-of-careto-meet-patient-needs
SYPHILIS RATES ARE INCREASING THROUGHOUT ALL OF NORTHERN HEALTH; ACROSS ALL AGES, ALL SEXES, AND ALL GEOGRAPHIES.
Cases are:
8 times higher in females than in 2021
7 times higher in pregnant people than in 2021
In 2022, 74% of cases were heterosexual and only 4% were among gay, bisexual, and other men who sex with men Syphilis is easily treated through prescription antibiotics. If left untreated syphilis can cause damage to the brain, heart and other organs in the body Visit the BCCDC SmartSex clinic finder to find a STI testing location nearby https://smartsexresource com/clinics-testing/
Meet the Prince George Cougars’ fantastic four
Cougars kick off playoffs Friday
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Koehn Ziemmer
Growing up in Mayerthorpe, Alta , Koehn Ziemmer was bitten by the rodeo bug watching his cousins ride at his grandparents’ ranch but his aspirations to become a bull rider waned at age 11 when he started playing rep hockey.
“When I was three or four it was either hockey or bull riding,” said Ziemmer. “My cousin, Kreo Ziemmer, was a steer rider who went to the Calgary Stampede and I used to ride calves when we were branding when I was a kid I spent a lot of time on the farm, so I’ve got a lot of farm strength ”
He’s been a fixture all year on NHL Central Scouting’s list of potential first-round draft picks for the June draft.
Ziemmer hit the 40-goal mark after a two-goal game March 18 against Victoria and his 41 goals and 89 points ranked third-best on the team and ninth best in the WHL during the regular season
The Cougars open the playoffs Friday at CN Centre against the Tri-City Americans
“We match up well against them, we’ve got a physical team and we’re playing good at the right time,” said Ziemmer. “Obviously the travel (12 hours by bus to Kennewick, Wash.) is going to be a little hectic but you can’t think about that and just play hockey.”
Riley Heidt
Sixty games into the season, Riley Heidt collected his 60th assist to break Jansen Harkins’ Cougar record for most assists in a single season record and Heidt didn’t stop there, adding 11 more assists to finish one shy of Connor Bedard for most in the WHL this year
Heidt also put up 25 goals to cap a 96-point season, fifth in league scoring No wonder he’s got NHL teams wondering if the 18-year-old from Saskatoon will still be available when it comes their turn to pick in the first round at the draft table in June
“We’re a pretty exciting team to watch, with a lot of skill up front and from the back end as well. If we bring that speed and the physical play and our work ethic we should be good.”
The Cougars are going into the playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the WHL, having won eight of their last 11 while gaining at least a point in all 11 games.
“We bring a lot of aspects to the game and we’re a tough team to play against,” said Heidt “Everybody knows we’ve got that skill, but we’re a hardworking team and we play a good system When we’re playing our system that’s when we’re at our best and then we just let our special teams take care of themselves and we’ve done that all year.
“The fans who have watched us all year know what they’re getting into and it should be fun Obviously we want as
many fans out here supporting us in the playoffs, we’ll obviously play better if more people are supporting us.”
Chase Wheatcroft
In his first year as a Prince George Cougar and his last year of junior hockey, Chase Wheatcroft had a historic season.
Acquired from the Winnipeg ICE for a fourth-round draft pick, in 68 games Wheatcroft produced 47 goals and 60 assists for 107 points, second in league scoring behind only Connor Bedard Wheatcroft’s ability to dominate the puck and make something out of nothing, combined with his tireless work ethic in both ends of the ice, paid off in him signing an NHL contract with the Dallas Stars
“It’s been a really successful year for me, a career year, honestly that’s changed my life,” he said “Dallas took a chance on me and I’m ready to see what I can prove at the next level and I can’t thank Prince George enough
Wheatcroft’s dad Jim played in the WHL in the late ‘80’s as a tough winger with the Lethbridge Hurricanes but Chase credits him mom for giving him his soft
hands around the net.
“I can’t say it was my dad, he used his hands to punch guys in the face,” he said. “He could score goals but he was known for contributing in different ways to get a spark going for the boys ”
Wheatcroft went 15 games deep into the playoffs last year with Winnipeg and he needs no convincing the Cougars have what it takes to get that far and beyond in their playoff run.
“Playoffs is the best time of the year, it’s what you work the entire year for and I know our group is ready for it and I’m excited as well, it’s my last kick at the can so I’ll give it all I’ve got and hopefully we get some wins and some grind wins and let’s see how far we can take this thing ”
Tyler Brennan
The Prince George Cougars struggled to gain much traction the first three months of the season and Tyler Brennan would be the first to admit he wasn’t up to his usual form until a couple weeks after the Christmas break
“My first half wasn’t where I wanted it to be and one day I was sitting in my
room and kind of thought to myself, ‘you’ve got to pick it up,’ I looked at myself in the mirror and went back to my old ways and the same habits I used to have,” said Brennan. “That’s really all it was, just flipping a switch in my head and getting in a better mindset is kind of what changed it around for me ”
Since returning from an injury Jan. 14, Brennan has been a wall in net, posting a 15-3-1 record the rest of the regular season He was the obvious first star with 43 saves in the season-ending 3-2 shootout win Saturday over Kamloops
Heading into the playoffs, Brennan has just four WHL playoff games on his resume, all last year against Portland, but in those games he was superb and that led him getting drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the fourth round
“We had our struggles throughout the year, we had our ups and downs, but in the end we came together as a team and everyone bought in after Christmas and we kind of turned our game around and that’s good to see heading into playoffs here,” said Brennan
JAMES DOYLE/PRINCE GEORGE COUGARS PHOTOS
Goaltender Tyler Brennan, top, Koehn Ziemmer, above left, Chase Wheatcroft, above centre, and Riley Heidt, above right, are the four players to watch as the Prince George Cougars begin the playoffs Friday night at CN Centre
Local duo eager for playoffs with Spruce Kings
Kings play Games 3, 4 at home next week
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Heading into the first round of playoffs Friday in Salmon Arm, Linden Makow, an 18-year-old right winger born and raised in Vanderhoof, has become an integral part of the Prince George Spruce Kings’ offence in his second B.C. Hockey League season.
He finished eighth in team scoring with 16 goals and 29 points in 52 games and was picked as the Spruce Kings’ most improved player
Makow and Kings’ left winger Scott Cousins, a Prince George native, were teammates three seasons ago playing for U-18 Cariboo Cougars and both agree the thrill of playing in front of family and friends never gets old They’ll get that chance Tuesday and Wednesday when the Spruce Kings host Games 3 and 4 of the best-of-seven series against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks at Kopar Memorial Arena
The series opens in Salmon Arm Friday and Saturday
“It’s pretty special, we’ve played hockey here our whole lives and it’s pretty cool to play junior hockey in our hometown, I hope it’s a big crowd, it’s super exciting,” said the 18-year-old Makow.
Cousins, 19, needed no introduction when he joined the Spruce Kings Oct. 17 after playing 54 games over three seasons in the WHL with the Kelowna Rockets.
Limited by injuries to 35 games with the Kings, he put up three goals and six assists.
“It’s a privilege to play at home, it’s every kid’s dream when you come up
watching these teams, the Spruce Kings and (WHL) Cougars, so to be able to put on the Spruce Kings jersey every night is a cool thing,” said Cousins
The Silverbacks and Spruce Kings
finished tied in points (61) and tied in wins (27) but Salmon Arm won the season series between the two teams 4-3, which gave the Silverbacks home ice advantage.
Young kicks off new pro baseball season in Iowa
The last time Prince George’s Jared Young batted in a game that mattered for the Iowa Cubs, he ended their triple-A season with a two-run walk-off home run
Now, with a new season beginning tonight in Des Moines, Iowa, Young has something new in his tool kit – Major League and Team Canada experiencethat he hopes will lead him to his ultimate goal to become an everyday Major League Baseball player.
Coming off a stint last September with the Chicago Cubs, Young’s sixth spring as a professional baseball player has already delivered a career highlight when he played for Team Canada at the World Baseball Classic this month.
That started with an exhibition game
MLB PHOTO
Jared Young heads for second base after delivering the first hit of his major league career in his first game, Sept 16, 2022, in Chicago against the Colorado Rockies
against the Cubs in which he hit a two-run double early in the game.
Switching from designated hitter to left field to first base, he also clubbed a home run in Canada’s second game of the tournament for his team’s only run in a 12-1 loss to the United States
In six games with Chicago last year, Young collected five hits in 19 at-bats for a 263 batting average
He played 109 games in his first full triple-A season with I-Cubs and hit 230 with 17 home runs and 59 RBI
“I’m looking forward to another really good season, the ball’s in my court and if you play really good and get some fortunate bounces, anything can happen,” said Young
“The better you play, the better chance you give yourself to play in the big leagues. You just have to go out there and do it It’s just a matter of putting everything together and being consistent.”
Young’s minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs expires at the end of the season
Iowa opens at home Friday against the Columbus Clippers
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Scott Cousins, left, and Linden Makow hope to draw big crowds next Tuesday and Wednesday when the Spruce Kings host the Salmon Arm SIlverbacks in the third and fourth games of their BCHL playoff series at Kopar Memorial Arena
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
HOROSCOPES & PUZZLES
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
It’s easier to negotiate with people with whom you’re not emotionally involved. You’ll find it easy to get along with most people, but you’ll need to be persistent with your children.
TAURUS
You could achieve a position of power at work. You’ll move into a prominent role if you trust your instincts and organizational skills.
GEMINI
You’ll be congratulated for a significant accomplishment, even if you think it was trivial. Your action will be viewed as heroic, even if it’s only to lend a listening ear to someone in distress.
CANCER
WEEK OF April 2 TO April 8, 2023
LIBRA
You’ll prioritize your family and home life. On the professional side, you may start a family business you can grow from home.
LEO Summer is just a few weeks away, making you feel excited about the various adventures you’re planning. You deserve a little luxury Walks and hikes will be your great pleasures.
VIRGO
You’ll be bold and try something new that could take you to the other side of the world The position you’ve been coveting at work will finally open up.
You’ll achieve a greater sense of well being by exploring your spirituality You could also become involved in a movement that will answer your existential questions.
SCORPIO
You’ll be overflowing with creative ideas that will prompt you to create a work of art. You’ll perform an act of generosity for a loved one.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll be under a lot of pressure at work and need to take time to see your friends and escape from it all. You’ll be thrilled to oversee an event that brings together the people you like most
CAPRICORN
You’ll find clarity that sets you on a career path that aligns with your ambitions. A form of learning will guide you in the right direction or at least help you identify your goals.
AQUARIUS
Let your dreams take you on a journey that gives you some ideas for a holiday next summer It’s essential to plan to enjoy an adventure in good company
PISCES
You’re particularly sensitive this week. You must take time to rest to shake things off. You might consider taking a holiday to recuperate and sort out your overwhelming emotions.
cl assi fi eds
Memoriam
In loving memory Beverly Smith
February 2, 1945March 31, 2021
“The ones we love are always in our hearts”
Love Darryl, Kristi, Shannon, Trinity and families
BRIAN AUSTIN PRIESTON
December 11, 1970
March 28, 2002
Twenty one years ago we lost you. Sometimes it still feels like yesterday. Forever in our hearts and our minds. We love and miss you.
Love always your family
A Celebration of Life April 1, 2023, 1:00 pm
REMEMBRANCES
DANIEL IVER ALFSTAD
MARCH 19, 2023
March 24th 1933
Tisdale, SK -
October 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 brother Herb, sisters; Ellen and Donalda, daughter, Debbie Bailey (Waine), sons; Tom Ford and David Ford (Rachel), stepdaughters Tammy Miller (Jerry) and Connie Buckingham, grandsons, granddaughters, great granddaughters, great grandsons, two great great granddaughters, nephews and a niece.
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.
It is with great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Daniel Iver Alfstad, at the age of 92. He is survived by sons Al (Gail) Alfstad and Lorne Alfstad; daughters Cathy Alfstad (Bob Drayton) and Lorie Alfstad; grandchildren Allan, Shanness, Candice (Matt), Mike (Krystal), Lisa (Brandon), Jenna (Dylan) and great grandchildren Jake, Emersyn, Milo, Nova and Hannah; sisters Eleanor Grainger (Assiniboia, Saskatchewan) and Donna (Bob) Cojocar (Regina, Saskatchewan). Words cannot express the loss we are feeling but knowing that you have been reunited with the love of your life, your loving wife and our Mom, Florence Alfstad, is the only thing that comforts us while we grieve your passing. No service by request. A private celebration of life to take place at a date to be determined by family.
Neil Ernest MacDonald
(September 18, 1962 - March 20, 2023)
Neil Ernest MacDonald of Bawlf, Alberta, formerly of Prince George, British Columbia, passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023 at the age of 60 years.
Left to cherish his memory are his mother Margaret Morrissey; and siblings Malcolm MacDonald of Camrose and Barbara MacDonald of Bawlf.
Neil was predeceased by his father Alan MacDonald; and brother David MacDonald.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 31, 2023 from the Burgar Memorial Chapel, 4817 - 51 Avenue Camrose with Rev. Brian Hunter officiating. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Neil’s memory may be made to University Hospital Foundation, or to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.
On August 1, 2022, our son, James was poisoned by fentanyl at his home and as a result he passed away. Our hearts are broken and will be broken until we see him again beside our Lord. We all loved his big hugs, beautiful smile, and his sense of humor.
James did not get the chance to say goodbye to his parents, Ron and Pat, his twin sons, Jacob and Lucas, his daughter, Emily, the love of his life and mother of his children Laurie, his sister, Melissa and nieces lzabella and Elizabeth, aunt Colleen, uncle Norman, uncle Tony, his cousins (besties): Andrew, Kathryn, Mary, David, Michael and Steven. Chelsea, Mike etc.
James loved snowboarding, motorcycling, and working on his low rider. James kept his mother alive by donating stem cells to help fight leukaemia. James worked hard at the oil fields and partied hard when he was off work.
We would like to thank all our friends, and relatives for masses, prayers, visits, cards, food, and our anonymous friends for their generous donation.
Last but not least Joe and Laura Fowlie and their family for their prayers, kindness and support over the years.
We’ll say goodbye with James famous words “we’ll do it tomorrow”.
Marjorie
Marjorie passed away peacefully at the Rotary Hospice House on March 19, 2023.
She is loved and remembered by her family and friends. No service by her request.
Burgar Funeral Home Camrose & Daysland (4817 51 Ave, Camrose, Alberta T4V 0V4) in care of arrangements. 780-672-2121.
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Donald E. Ford
Memorial Services
James Gerald Anthony RODERICK
1981- 2022
Lilly Murray (née Hofmann)
1927-2023
Lilly Murray (née Hofmann) died peacefully on March 18, 2023 at 95 years old, after spending the day surrounded by family.
She was born in High River Alberta in 1927 to Swiss immigrants Robert and Frieda Hofmann. Lilly eventually settled with her family in Trail, BC where she spent her childhood with her three brothers and two sisters.
After attending normal school in Victoria, Lilly began her teaching career in a small schoolhouse in Yahk, BC where she met her husband Bruce. In 1956 they moved to Cranbrook, where they raised four children. In 1967, Lilly and her family moved to Prince George where she began a 25 year career teaching elementary school. She made a lasting impact on her students and was proud of the work she did with them. Lilly was a strong advocate for good education and considered it the best insurance policy for a secure future. Lilly herself returned to school in 1968 working on her Bachelors of Education degree, course by course, often attending summer school until she graduated with her degree from the University of Victoria in 1985. She was an avid gardener and loved being in nature. She instilled this love of nature in her children. She was a highly skilled seamstress, knitter and quilter, taking great pride in her creations. While working on her latest project she would have her favorite cat curled up beside her. Lilly baked the best cinnamon buns and legendary huckleberry pies often climbing through the woods to pick her own huckleberries well into her 80’s. She had an adventurous spirit and actively explored the wilderness, both physically and through books. In doing so she became a wealth of knowledge on the history and geography of BC. Her quiet presence filled the room. She was gracious, smart and fiercely independent. Lilly was predeceased by her parents; her brothers; her sisters as well as her grandson Andrew who passed away in 1988. She leaves to mourn her four children Robert (Marilyn), Douglas (Ellen), Joan Williams (Paul), and Carol Tyre Desilets (Christian); ten grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren.
A private family gathering will be held at this time followed by interment of her ashes in Trail, BC this summer.
The family would like to thank the staff at Rainbow Lodge for their kind and excellent care as well as Dr Serwa.
Please, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to BC Children’s hospital in Lilly’s name or buy a book and read it to a child.
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ANNUAL PUBLIC MEETING
Job Title: Lead Researcher
NADLEH WHUT ’ EN FIRST NATION JOB POSTING
Department: Lejac Indian Residential School (LIRS) project
Position Status: full-time, term position, 35.0 hours per week
Remuneration: commensurate with relevant education and experience
Competition Close: Friday March 31st 2023 11:59 pm PST
Competition Instructions: Email resume, a cover letter including remuneration expectations, and a maximum of three (03) letters of reference, in one (01) pdf document to the attention of Terr y Luggi, Indian Residential School Project Manager at tluggi@nadleh.ca
Only those selected for an inter view will be contacted
JOB SUMMARY
This position:
• Works closely with the IRS Project Manager and the Lejac IRS Guiding Team;
• Creates and/or maintains relationships with Lejac Indian Residential School Sur vivors and/or intergenerational sur vivors from up to 70 Indigenous First Nation communities, Elders, Tribal Councils, groups and organizations, allied communities and as appropriate related religious, archival institutions, government and not-for-profit organizations;
• Is essential to a documented Witness’ statement gathering process for the purpose of naming and locating children who
did not return home from the Lejac IRS
• Responds to research inquiries relating to the Lejac IRS project.
• Is instrumental in the collection, collation, analysis, documentation, storage, protection, care and preser vation of Lejac IRS student records, information and research.
• Collaborates with staff to plan and coordinate events as appropriate;
• May also be called upon to undertake special assignments.
• Minimal exposure to noise and odours, travel in/to a variety of environments and locations.
• Sensor y Attention (considerable)
• Attention to detail, multi-tasking, can be sporadically highpaced, work efficiently with distractions and interruptions.
• Mental Stress (considerable)
• High paced, people centered and people driven, high level of responsibility for accuracy of work, high level of stress for nature of work and sensitivity to trauma impacted people, irregular work hours, working collaboratively, inter-departmentally and between Nations and organizations.
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
614-6667
Planning & Development Supervisor
The Creston Community Forest is seeking a permanent, full-time Registered Professional Forester or Forest Technician to oversee the company’s forest development program in the beautiful Creston Valley If interested, please submit resume and cover letter by April 30th, 2023 to: dgratton@crestoncf.com
ACCOUNTANT
Prince Ruper t BC
For Sale
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and experience preparing financial statements
• Full c ycle accounting including but not limited to A/R, A/P,payroll, costing, general ledger, bank reconciliations, month end in-house financial statements for multiple companies Responsible for the filing of required government (GST,PST,EHT,T5018,source deduc tions, WCB) and union remits, T4 issuance, administration of company Group Benefits Plan. O ffice duties include bank ing, purchase of office supplies and office forms, ICBC fleet renewals.
• Minimum of a Diploma in Accounting & Finance or equivalent required and 5 years experience in full c ycle accounting
• Experience with computerized accounting system - work ing k nowledge of Sage 300 an asset
• Experience with creating and managing schedules such as prepaid expense, fixed asset depreciation and accruals
• Proficient in microsoft office including excel, word, outlook
• Valid drivers license and vehicle
• Ability to read, write, speak English
• Ver y organized with excellent attention to detail
Long term training in ever y aspec t of our accounting and office administration will be provided
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Salar y: $60,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Benefits: Ex tended Health, Dental, Week ly Indemnity, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance and AD & D
Apply by email to bw@bwindustries.ca
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Fa m i l y S e r v i c e C o o r
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M A I N T E N A N C E S U P E R V I S O R
Dunk ley Lumber Ltd. operates a modern and efficient sawmill and planermill facility at Strathnaver, 75 k m south of Prince George, BC. We produce high quality lumber produc ts that are sold across Nor th America and in overseas markets Please visit our website at www.dunk leylumber.com for more information about our company.
We currently have an opening for a Maintenance Super visor. Key responsibilities include providing super vision and technical training for shift personnel, identifying oppor tunities for improvement and ensuring the highest standard of work place safety at all times.
The ideal candidate will possess the following technical sk ills and experience:
• Journeyperson cer tification as a Red Seal Millwright or relevant experience
• super visor y experience in a sawmill environment
• strong analytical troubleshooting sk ills with the ability to multitask under time constraints
• effec tive leadership sk ills with the ability to manage a team
• strong ability to coach and train others
• exceptional interpersonal and communication sk ills
• a strong commitment to safety
This position offers a highly competitive wage and benefits program and rewarding oppor tunities to grow along with an industr y-leading company
If you possess the noted qualifications and are interested in joining our company, please submit your resume via fax or email to the attention of :
HR Coordinator
Email: hr@dunkleylumber.com
All applications will be treated in stric t confidence. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an inter view will be contacted
1. Millisecond
Narcotic drug
Accident
Formal submissions
Popular 70s rock band
Discourage from doing
More socially elite
Arid
A way to look
Heroes
A surfer rides it
Potato state 30. Insect repellent
1. Woman (French)
2. Province of Pakistan
This (Spanish)
Transportation device
Greater in importance or
The human foot
Within
Ceased to exist
Type of macaroni
32. Cool!
33. Have already done
35. Collegiate women’s fraternity
36. To the __ degree
39. Gasteyer and de Armas are two 41. Blood type
42. Looked over 44. Language of Cameroon and Chad
46. Species of armadillo
47. Touch softly
20. Tall, slender-leaved plant
36 inches
25. Take too much (abbr.) 26. Allow 27. Individually 29. Journalist Tarbell
Bar bill 34. Hong Kong food stall:__ pai dong 36. Not messy 37. Species that includes reedmace 38. Former MLB catcher Ed
Northern U.S. state
Wilt
49. Part of your upper body
52. Large, stocky lizards
56. Lack of social or ethical standards
58. Congressman
60. Unofficial force
62. As a result of this utterance
63. A main branch of Islam
45. Commercial
Bolivian river
Nursemaid
A car needs four 53. Guns (slang) 54. American state
55. Clusters of fern fronds
57. Body part
58. A person’s brother or sister
59. Breed of sheep native to Sweden
Of I
(Kamloops)
Legal/Public Notices
To anyone related to ANNAS, STEVEN DOUGLAS about the trailer MHR# 020318, Serial# GASDFYMP62X121615, 1971,DENDIX, PARAMOUNT, located at #25 - 3730 Lansdowne Rd., Prince George, BC. 0868732 BC Ltd., the owner of Sunrise Valley MH Park, 251-3381 Cambie St., Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4R3 (604-2487505), will dispose the above-mentioned trailer unless the person being notified takes possession of the property and establishes a right of possession of it within 30 days from the date the notice is served on that person.
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HOMES
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
4 must-have features for the ultimate dream kitchen
Apotfillerisaswing-outfaucetonalong, jointed arm that’s generally mounted over thestove.Potfillersareextremelyconvenient and prevent you from having to lug heavy,water-filledpotsfromsinktostove.
2. FARMHOUSE SINK
Withtheirwhite,fireclaybasinsandtall, stainless-steel faucets, modern farmhouse sinks aren’t only stylish; they’re also wider and deeper than standard kitchen sinks This helps make cooking andcleaningabreeze.
If you want your kitchen to have a streamlinedanduniformprofile,abuilt-in refrigerator is the way to go. Built-in refrigerators sit flush with the rest of the kitchen cabinetry in the space and ofer an upmarketappearance.
If you’re designing your dream kitchen, keep in mind, you don’t have to do it alone Consider reaching out to a home designer or general contractor in your areafor help
FREE ESTIMATES
Kitchen lighting 101 5 bathroom storage solutions
Inakitchen,it’sbesttohavedifferenttypes of light fixtures throughout the space that serve various functions. Here’s an overview
AMBIENT LIGHTING
Thistypeoflightingispowerfulenoughto illuminate the entire room but tends to leave workspaces insufficiently lit. Recessed or can lights are a timeless choice for kitchens, as they have a low profile and work with any decor style Alternatively,youcanoptforatraditionalceiling fixture or track lights, which have individual fixtures that can be easily repositionedtobetterilluminatethespace
TASK LIGHTING
Thistypeoflightingisusedtobrightenup specific areas Pendant lights are great to hang over a kitchen island or sink, for example, and they can contribute to the decor These lights are best paired with recessed lighting to avoid too much visual clutter As for countertop prep space, undercabinet lighting is your best bet since it’s easy to install, practically invisibleandwon’tcreateshadows
To find the right light fixtures for your kitchenandelsewhereinyourhome,visit the hardware, home decor and specialty lightstoresinyourarea.
Regardless of how large or small your bathroom is, organization is the key to creating a functional, clutterfree space Here are a fewstorageideas
1. BASKETS
Place wire, wicker or canvas baskets beneath a floating vanity to maintain an airy feel while benefiting from additional storage Baskets can also greatlyreduceclutteronopenshelves.
2. COUNTERTOP TRAY
Control the chaos onyourcountertop by arranging toiletries on a tray alongside a potted plant, scented candle or fake bouquet Keep small items like cotton swabs and hair clipsinglassjars
3. BAR CART
shelving that doesn’t eat into the footprint of the room You can also create small builtins on the wall above the bathtub or nexttothesinkfortoiletries
5. LADDER TOWEL RACK
Thisisagreatalternativetoaddingshelvesor cabinets to a bathroom, especially for renters Opt for a cart on wheels so it can easilybemovedoutofthewayorclosertothe showerasneeded.
4. BUILT-INS
Use the empty space in your walls to add
By leaning a wood or metal ladder against the wall, you’ll create ample space to hang towelsforthewholefamilyratherthantake upwallspacewithseveralindividualtowel racks.
Windowsillsareanessential element of your home because they secure the windows and can serve as shelvesfordecorations Youcan choose from a wide variety of windowsill materials to complement your home. Here’salookattheprosand consofeach.
• PVC windowsills are the most common because they’re affordable and come in various colours PVC sillsarealsomoistureand fade-resistant. Additionally, you need to wipe themwithadampclothonly periodically to keep them lookingnew However,they aren’t as durable as other materials and can’t be recycled.
• Solid wood sills are elegant and durable and provide good thermal insulation You can choose from various wood species, including oak, mahogany, pine and ash However, wood is sensitive to temperature extremes,highhumidityandUVrays,soit requires regular maintenance to protect it againstrotandmould
• Natural stone windowsills are made of materialslikegranite,limestoneandmarble, whichaddatouchofluxurytotheinteriorof your home Stone sills resist damage from sunlight and retain their appearance for years with very little maintenance However, they don’t have heat-insulating propertiesandcanbeexpensive
• Tile sillscomeinmaterialssuchasceramic, glass and concrete Tile is an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens because of its durability. Moreover, selecting a tile windowsillgivesyouendlesscustomization options However,tileislabour-intensiveto install, and the grout can become dirty quickly Talktoacontractorinyourareatohelpyou choose the right windowsill material for yourhome
