About 60 UNBC students and concerned community members gathered at the courthouse Saturday afternoon to protest the City of Prince George’s plan to establish a single overnight encampment site for unhoused people at Lower Patricia Boulevard.
“We resist the idea that there are only two (bad) options, and we call on the city to delay the April 12th decision and to develop new plans based in consultation and a human centric approach,” Kalsbeek said.
The group gathered for speeches at the courthouse then peacefully marched to the First Avenue camp of the unhoused to talk to those who wished to express their concerns about their fate
TEEN ART SHOWCASE Kitty Swanson created her art work entitled Reduce, Reuse, Returtle, with plastic bags and won the Best Social Commentary award during the Teen Art Showcase at the Prince George Public Library For more, see page 12
NEW JOB John Rustad now leader of the B.C. Conservatives PAGE 7
City facing big retro pay bill
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The City of Prince George will have to pay an estimated $6.5 million in retroactive pay to local RCMP members, following the release of the federal budget this week.
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities called on the federal government to cover the cost of retroactive pay for local governments, after RCMP members ratified a six-year labour contract in 2021. The contract includes a 23.78 per cent pay increase, retroactive to 2017, with municipalities required to cover the onetime back pay cost
Municipalities were warned about the potential cost, and the City of Prince George allocated $4 million into a reserve to pay the back pay by the time the contract was ratified
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Apartment building runs into opposition
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Area residents will have a chance to have their say about a proposed apartment development at 2690 Queensway.
Atpar Developments Ltd had previously sought to develop an “apartment hotel” with up to 43 units on the site City council rescinded a rezoning request to facilitate that development and voted to hold a public hearing on a new proposed rezoning to facilitate a conventional apartment building with up to 55 units.
“The proposed zoning does not permit an apartment hotel use, as previously applied for ” city director of planning and development Deanna Wasnik said. “(But) there is an increase in units being proposed with this new bylaw.”
A traffic impact study conducted by the applicant indicated that right-turnonly access off of Queensway should be
included in the development, but primary access should be from Inlander Street, Wasnik added City council received five letters and emails from area residents opposed, raising concerns about the increased traffic on Inlander Street.
“We are not opposed to growth and recognize the need for housing in our community,” area resident Mark Goudreau wrote. “Our objection is with the proposed entrance of the development which would transform our quiet street into a busy thoroughfare This would deeply impact the character of the neighborhood and create a safety issue ” City council voted in favour of the first two readings of the rezoning bylaw The city’s normal processes would not require a public hearing be held for the rezoning, but council supported a motion brought forward by Coun Tim Bennett to hold a public hearing prior to council’s final consideration
Drinking water at risk of asbestos contamination
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
According to an investigation by CTV’s W5, 67 per cent of Prince George’s water mains are made with asbestos cement, which Italian studies have linked to asbestos contamination in drinking water.
With 394 kilometres of asbestos cement (AC) water pipes, Prince George had the second-highest percentage of AC pipes among the 85 communities across Canada included in W5’s report.
Other B C communities with high percentages of AC water mains included Millstream (29 km, 68 per cent), Fort St John (89 km, 47 per cent), Richmond (230 km, 36 per cent), Kelowna (195 km, 32 per cent), Vernon (209 km, 32 per cent), Kamloops (175 km, 29 per cent), Lillooet (8 km, 25 per cent), Qualicum Beach (26 km, 23 per cent), Nanaimo (100 km, 16 per cent), Delta (76 km, 12 per cent), Penticton (21 km, eight per cent) and Burnaby (53 km, seven per cent)
Vancouver, Surrey, Coquitlam and Victoria each reported one per cent or less of their water main infrastructure was made of AC pipes. Data on AC pipes
wasn’t available or incomplete for many other B C communities
Asbestos inhalation has been linked to increased risk of lung cancer for decades, but research published in 2016 linked asbestos contamination in drinking water to increased risk of multiple forms of cancer, including gastric and colorectal cancers.
In an email, a spokesperson for the City of Prince George said the city operates a total of 588 km of water mains, of which around 394 km (not the 385 km reported by W5) are AC pipe.
“The City of Prince George operates our potable water systems in compliance with Health Canada, Northern Health, and provincial and federal water regulations Our distribution system meets or exceeds all requirements for delivering safe and clean potable water to our residents,” the spokesperson said. “Health Canada has not set any maximum contaminant levels for asbestos in water and the City does not currently test for it.”
The city has not used AC pipe for more than 40 years, and most of the AC pipe still in use dates back from the 1960s to 1980s when the city was growing rapidly, the spokesperson said.
Krause receives award
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Murry Krause was presented with the Freedom of the City last week.
“Murry is a shining example of how a dedicated individual can make a difference in the community,” Mayor Simon Yu said. “He is the kind of person who helps others, without judgment ”
The Freedom of the City award is the highest honour a municipality can present to a distinguished individual or unit
of the Canadian Armed Forces and it is infrequently awarded
The award for exceptional merit and public contribution will result in a framed photograph of Krause engraved with his name and position, to be displayed permanently in a prominent location at city hall
Krause was the longest-serving city councillor in the city’s history, serving a total of 23 years from 1996 to 1999, and then again from 2002 to 2022 He didn’t seek relection in 2022.
“The greatest threat to fibers entering the water system is when the pipe is cut during a repair or removal As a result, municipal utilities follow strict procedures to mitigate or eliminate the release of fibers Utility workers are at the greatest risk from the airborne dust and, therefore, must wear appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting into AC pipe,” the spokesperson said “The City of Prince George has seen very few AC water main breaks over the years and recorded just four in 2022 The City has seen an increase in budgets for water main replacement/renewal over the past decade and continues to work to replace our aging infrastructure when opportunities and funding allow.”
In an email, a spokesperson for the B C Ministry of Health and Ministry of Municipal Affairs said the B.C. government is following the lead of Health Canada when it comes to potential asbestos contamination in water.
“Asbestos is a known inhalation risk, however, according to Health Canada and the World Health Organization, there is no consistent, convincing evidence that ingested asbestos is hazardous. As such, no guidelines for asbestos in drinking water is available in Canada,” the spokesperson said.
Downtown dirty, unsafe, survey finds
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
A survey conducted for the City of Prince George found that residents are concerned about the cleanliness, safety and inclusivity of the city’s downtown.
The survey was conducted between Sept. 20 and Oct. 14, 2022 to provide baseline data for an assessment of the city’s downtown initiatives. The survey included 92 members of the public, both online and in person, along with 24 downtown stakeholders, including city bylaw officers, service agencies and Downtown Prince George staff
According to a report presented to city council, only 18 2 per cent of respondents ranked downtown as clean or very clean, 40 2 per cent ranked downtown as very safe or moderately safe, and 45.7 per cent reported a high sense or some sense of belonging and connectedness downtown.
“That 40 per cent who feel mostly safe or better is just not enough for me,” Coun.
Tim Bennett said. “Ensuring we have a safe and clean downtown is something we, as council, need to be responsible for ”
Coun. Brian Skakun said people feel unsafe visiting downtown, “and they are justified in that, I think.”
“We have to provide some comfort and safety to the businesses and people
visiting our downtown,” he said.
Dani Prapavessis of Coeuraj consulting led the project to assess the city’s downtown initiatives, including the Community Safety Hub, increased downtown bylaw patrols and Downtown Prince George’s clean up crews.
The final report includes recommendations to improve the city’s downtown
services, but “there has to be more community ownership in addressing the root causes” of the social issues facing the city’s downtown, she said The assessment model can be used to collect data to see if the efforts are working, she added “We need to take some actions,” Mayor Simon Yu said “The time for collecting data is over.”
These graphs shows the results of a survey on downtown safety and cleanliness
Social media dare frustrates homeowner
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A disturbing “challenge” that has gained recent notoriety on social media appears to have reached Prince George.
It involves small groups of youths wearing balaclavas who show up at homes in the middle of the night to bang loudly on doors and windows while one of them videos the misbehaviour for posting on platforms, leaving frightened homeowners with frayed nerves.
“They hit / kick the mostly glass door
so hard that it really seems like a home invasion. At the ‘least’ we wonder if the seal on the rather expensive door will hold, or it will have to be replaced,” said one homeowner
The Citizen agreed not to print the person’s name and address
The RCMP’s response has been underwhelming, according to the homeowner, who said it took days for police to return their call
When they did get in touch, police suggested buying security cameras and refrain from taking the matter into their own hands
Police have warned that a homeowner on Vancouver Island could be charged for deploying fishing line to trip up one culprit.
Mounties might have bigger things to deal with, the homeowner in Prince George acknowledged, but also suggested they could plan better for certain times of year like spring break when schools are closed.
How widespread the trouble has been in Prince George is in question.
Prince George RCMP Cpl Jennifer Cooper said the detachment has received just three reports of such incidents in the last
two months but it has also been a topic of conversation among households on Facebook groups
Cooper said patrols were made after one occurrence but no one was located Evidence is key, she said.
“No one has provided any surveillance for us to attempt identification, so the investigations have not gone anywhere,” Cooper added.
Fire calls up from last year
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The Prince George Fire Rescue Service responded to a record 9,880 call outs in 2022, and is on track to see that number be even higher this year.
In January and February, the fire department responded to a total of 1,611 calls – equivalent to more than 27 per day, according to data presented to the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George last week. That’s up from 1,460 call outs the department responded to in January and February 2022.
Of the calls in January and February this year, 1,048 were medical calls (86 more than in January and February 2022), 369 were for fires (46 more than 2022), 110 were rescues (21 more than
2022) and 84 were administrative or other (two less than in 2022)
A report presented to city councillors at a committee of the whole meeting in February said the Prince George Fire Rescue Service needs to hire 32 additional firefighters and two support staff over the next four years, along with
additional vehicles and a fifth fire hall, to meet the rising demand for calls in the city.
A motion approved by council at the meeting is calling on the provincial government to compensate the city for the cost of firefighters responding to medical calls
Family files lawsuits
MARK
A deadly fire at a Prince George motel has led to further legal action.
The sister of a man who lost his life in the July 8, 2020 fire at the Econo Lodge Motel filed a pair of lawsuits last week in B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver.
Charleen Miller is seeking damages from Mundi 910 Victoria Enterprises Ltd., Choice Hotels Canada Inc , the City of Prince George and Allpoints Fire Protection Ltd , for losses related to the death of Amos Miller, claiming she and her siblings were dependent on him for support
A class action lawsuit on behalf of the victims is also before the court According to Charleen Miller’s lawsuit, the siblings would prefer that their claims be handled as part of the class action and the separate action was filed to preserve their claims in the event they are not included as class action members
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Registration Deadline Monday,April 17, 2023
Prince George firefighters tackle a fire at a house at 2779 Merritt Rd on March 8
NIELSEN Citizen staff
Rustad named leader of B.C. Conservatives
THE CANADIAN PRESS
The newly acclaimed leader of British Columbia’s Conservatives whose climate change views prompted his expulsion from the Opposition Liberals says he’s building a grassroots coalition for voters who don’t support the province’s left-of-centre direction.
John Rustad, a former Liberal cabinet minister who has been sitting in B C ’s legislature as an Independent since last year, said Friday his Conservatives will offer an option to voters concerned about high taxes, freedoms and life’s challenges.
“People have a sense that something’s not quite right, and whether it’s in our health care system or whether it’s the crime on the street, whether it’s affordability or
just people trying to get on with day-to-day life, they are not happy,” he said in an interview on Friday.
“With the two options, which are both basically left-ofcentre, the B.C. Liberals and the NDP, they are not really offering the kind of option that I’m hearing from people that they want to see,” said Rustad, speaking by phone from the side of the highway on the way to his home in Vanderhoof, about 100 kilometres west of Prince George.
Rustad, 60, who represents the riding of Nechako Lakes, was acclaimed Conservative Party of B.C. leader as the only candidate in the race
He replaced former leader Trevor Bolin, who had been serving as interim leader
“A year ago, I would never have thought that I would be doing this,” said Rustad “But I must admit I’m very
excited about taking on the leadership I think the potential for a new coalition party in this province is enormous ”
Opposition Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon said earlier he dumped Rustad from the party caucus last August for his public statements and social media posts suggesting climate change is not caused by carbon dioxide emissions. Rustad, who once held cabinet posts in forests and Indigenous affairs in former Liberal governments, announced last month he was joining the B.C. Conservatives, who received less than two per cent of the vote in the 2020 provincial election.
“The reason I’m in this is because the (Liberal) party removed me,” he said. “They kicked me out. We’ll see how things go ”
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Here’s to Ron Brent Elementary
On March 7, the Fraser Institute issued its Report Card on British Columbia’s Elementary Schools and in doing so named Ron Brent Elementary as the worst school in the province. I would have written something sooner, but unfortunately for me I started my academic career in those hallowed halls
Just imagine what I could have done if I attended Corpus Christi in Vancouver Perhaps I would have become a full professor before 40 or skipped the leadership of the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health to just become a senator.
In all seriousness, the Fraser Institute has been a bit of a thorn in my side for a while now Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against the organization per se, and have even used their work in the classroom as well as my own research. What annoys me is how polarizing they are.
On the one hand, I’ve had left-leaning students incensed that I would even consider looking at what they produce, while right-leaning students are upset
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that I don’t just take what they say as the gospel truth.
But here’s the thing I don’t believe the Fraser Institute want that, either.
Like all think tanks, the Fraser Institute has an agenda. This statement should be obvious to anyone who has actually taken the time to look at the Fraser Institute. In their own words, they want “to improve the quality of life for Canadians, their families, and future generations by studying, measuring, and broadly communicating the effects of government policies, entrepreneurship, and choice on their well-being ”
A laudable goal.
Of course, it is also incredibly subjective, and this reality leads us to where they lose many people Their approach to the world is a conservative-libertarian one There is nothing inherently wrong with that, but it does explain their focus on government, the economy, and classic liberalism. Indeed, it could even be said that that is why they argue that not taking state funding makes their research objective, although it should be pointed out that they do not talk about the biases
that might result from relying on private donations.
By now, you might be wondering why I ever use any of their work if I think it isn’t as objective as they claim
Well, first, I do not think any research is unbiased or objective
We are shaped by our worldview and short of undertaking a Byzantine review of any funder, taking money always entails complications It is the nature of things. That being said, I am confident enough in my own research and what I teach to not simply rely on stuff that echoes it Dogmatic adherence to untouchable truths is bad regardless of what whether you like them or not I want to understand why people disagree with me and in doing so consider my own conclusions.
Even a broken clock is right two times a day and in the case of the Fraser Institute they are not only generally quite good at listing the sources they use along with the methods they use, but also based on this information their conclusions make sense or at least I can see why they say they make sense. When we disagree it is
because I feel they have left something out or made a judgment call when things are not clear that is based on their own experiences. There is a whole field of study that looks at the latter, which I find fascinating since it attempts to explain why people believe in things others find ludicrous. Spoilers, but it is not just because people are ignorant or uneducated. There is a logic to it.
So if students in my history and/or Indigenous studies courses want to know why people say things they disagree with, my approach has always been to try to unpack what is being said rather than just proclaim those individuals wrong. Do I think Ron Brent is the worst elementary school in British Columbia? No, but I am biased towards it That being said, I know why the Fraser Institute said they are and there is always room to improve.
Mind you, I did go to Ron Brent Daniel Sims is a member of the Tsay Keh Dene First Nation He is an associate professor at UNBC and is academic co-lead of the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health.
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.
I usually don’t need the plastic cutlery, chopsticks, packets of condiments, or even the napkins A lot of the time, the food is going to my home or office, which has all the things I need
Start asking all your customers You’ll be surprised how many of us will say “no thanks ” This simple question will keep all those extras from ending up in the landfill, and shows that your company is environmentally conscious, which is a great image boost. Plus, who doesn’t want to save on costs?
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Horgan wasted no time showing his true stripes
No sooner had he resigned his seat as a politician, former premier John Horgan announced he will be joining the board of a coal company
I suppose a lot of us will find nothing wrong with that
But I do.
Here’s the deal
When our leaders and bureaucrats leave the public service to immediately take plum jobs with large multinational corporations they had influence over, it makes me wonder who they were working for while they were in office
We the people?
Or they the multinational corporations?
I had the same concerns when former chief forester Dianne Nichols left the public service to work for Drax, a multinational pellet company whose industry Nichols advocated for while a public
servant
It’s a clear conflict of interest, it’s unethical, and it should be illegal
If you actually worked for the people, I can guarantee you the corporate sector wouldn’t want to touch you with a ten foot pole
If Dianne Nichols actually managed our forests for our communities and the health of our forests and wildlife, she would be a pariah down at the Council of Forest Industries.
That’s because the public interest is served by standing up to the global monopolies running roughshod over our forests and communities. She should
have questioned glyphosate spraying Instead she commissioned a crooked report justifying it She should have required more selective logging, changed stocking standards, and supported a myriad of other policies.
Instead, she ensured the maximum cuts so the corporations could earn the maximum profits
But maybe that was the point. Maybe the point is not to serve the public of British Columbia. After all, they won’t give you that six figure salary when you quit on them. The companies you regulated will, however Better kiss up to them while collecting that publicly-funded paycheck
It’s the same deal with John Horgan.
Had he seen the writing on the wall- the growing void between the wealthy and the poor, the reckless exploitation of our forests, the housing crisis, the failure of
our railroad network, the cross-border pollution impacts of the coal company he now works for, all of which are the direct result of the pendulum swinging too far in favour of big money, he would have pulled a Dave Barrett special like it was 1972
He did the opposite.
We’ve basically had the same corporate-captured government since 2001. And I guess maybe now we know why I would say we get what we deserve, but I don’t think that would be fair I think a lot of times we are sold a bill of goods. John Horgan was supposedly the greatest premier to ever walk the face of British Columbia He probably believes it We probably believed it.
But like they say, when someone shows you who they are, you should believe that instead
James Steidle is a Prince George writer
Doctrine of discovery’s demise can’t be ignored
On March 30, the Vatican repudiated the doctrine of discovery
Roughly 530 years after Pope Alexander VI issued “Inter Caetera,” which ceded all lands 100 leagues west of the Cape Verde Island to the Spanish crown, the church has recognized its role in the occupation of the lands of the Indigenous people of the Americas
Of course, it wasn’t just the Catholic Church which argued discovery implied possession nor was it always about bringing non-Christians to God Both England and France asserted a right to explore and colonize any territory not under the actual possession of a Christian sovereign
Many scholars and theologians
criticized the doctrine
Writing in 1625, the Dutch philosopher and diplomat Hugo Grotius stated discovery does not give a right to sovereignty over inhabited land, “For discovery applies to those things which belong to no one ” Other philosophers expressed similar views.
But in 1823, the U S Supreme Court held that under international law, “Discovery of lands previously unknown to Europeans gave the discovering nation
title to that land against all other European nations ” Furthermore, all lands discovered by England passed to the individual states after the Declaration of Independence and to the United States in 1789.
The court noted: “ in order to avoid conflicting settlements, and consequent war with each other discovery gave title to the government by whose subjects, or by whose authority, it was made, against all other European governments, which title might be consummated by possession…”
The U S Supreme Court has no jurisdiction in Canada but England and France took possession of our country by virtue of discovering already inhabited land
- albeit, through treaty in some areas
We are left with the complex issue of trying to understand how to address centuries of occupation and how to reconcile our past However, Indigenous title must be recognized. The government of Canada can’t simply act without due consideration to the implications of its actions Not if it is lawful
Last week, we heard the leader of the Conservatives proclaim that if a company wants to build a mine, they can start the next day if he is prime minister The gatekeepers need to be removed.
But they aren’t gatekeepers They are Indigenous people with rights.
Todd Whitcombe is a chemistry professor at UNBC
I frequent hospitals all over the province and Prince George is by far the only hospital that allows people to congregate in large numbers smoking, especially at the southeast corner At times, there have been upwards of 20 people sitting there smoking over the last two weeks and no one does anything.
I have gone in and spoke to security and gone outside for 20 minutes. Nothing I’ve gone up to administration and
couldn’t find a live body, closed doors Just to be smart, I thought I would call four hospitals in our province -- two in the southern interior and 2 in the Lower Mainland
I was able to speak with someone about my concerns and they explained they had
security that patrols the public spaces 24/7 in order to remove anyone from loitering or smoking
I love living in this city, but not when this type of behavior is deemed OK, it shines a poor light on all of us.
Kevin Beatty, Prince George
Marathoners come home with world milestone
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Michael Wells started down the path to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors eight years ago when he ran the Boston Marathon.
He did the Berlin Marathon in 2016, New York in 2017, Chicago and London in 2018, and was all set to check Tokyo off his list in 2020 when, just two weeks before the race, COVID hit.
Last year he did London again and obliterated his 2018 time and on March 5 he took another shot at racing in Tokyo
The 73-year-old Summit Lake resident has now joined an elite group of 281 Canadian men to complete the six majors, finishing the Tokyo course in 5:08:40
“Tokyo was exciting, a beautiful city and great people - it’s stunning and the race was exceptional, the weather was perfect,” said Wells
“The course was flat, way too long, with lots of corners but at my speed it didn’t
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Prince
George marathon runners Michael Wells, left, and Jacqui Pettersen hold the Six Star Medals they were presented in Tokyo, Japan on March 5 after they completed all six major world marathons
seem too restrictive.”
Wells started and finished with
longtime Prince George buddy, Brian Cadden, 73, who now lives in Nova Scotia. Of the six, Wells rates New York as his favourite.
“The city is just immense and varied, it rained the whole marathon, but it was just the experience of the city - the people were loud and boisterous and we finished in Central Park,” he said
Jacqui Pettersen of Prince George, 51, also earned her Six Star Medal after posting a Tokyo time 3:05:46.
Pettersen runs semi-elite marathon times quick enough to qualify her for the majors
Wells got in by joining a charity.
“The challenge of accomplishing what Jacqui and I have done is not running the races, just about anybody can do that, it’s getting into them,” said Wells.
“If you go through the lottery, Tokyo had 350,000 applications worldwide for 37,500 spots ”
SUBMITTED PHOTO
The Zone 8 Judo team recently returned from the BC Winter Games with a gold medal for their collective efforts
Three buses filled with athletes and coaches went to the BC Winter Games in Vernon to compete on the provincial level during the four-day competition
During the first day, the judo athletes competed individually in their own weight category the following earned medals: Maegan Grooten - gold (48kg), Madeleine Schimann - silver (48kg), Nevada Jonesgold (57kg), Alandra Steiger - gold (63kg), and Yannick Schimann - bronze (50kg).
The team competition saw each zone select three females and three males representing lightweight, medium weight, and heavyweight to create the team.
Under the leadership of coaches Nicole Willows and Branden Edwards, the Zone 8 team of judokas brought home the gold medal for their efforts. Zone 8 team includes Maegan Grooten, Madeleine Schimann, Nevada Jones, Alandra Steiger, Yannick Schimann, Olivia Beckett, Grayson Holliday, Jesse Hedstrom, Levi Cartwright, Georgia Mackenzie, Dax Norman, Alex Ezaki, and Craig Hunter.
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
SKI RESORT FOR SALE
Powder King is up for sale for $8,250,000 The offering includes Powder King Mountain Resort and Azouzetta Lake Resort
Near Mackenzie, roughly two hours north of Prince George, the listing calls it a “fully integrated all-season, master planned resort community ”
The ski hill has 900+ acres of skiable terrain, 37 runs, three lifts, and is “ranked #4 in North America and #1 in Canada for snow ” It also has a 50-room “hostel-style” hotel, dining room, and lodge, and cabins that accommodate staff.
The lake resort property is 6 kilometres from the ski hill and offers numerous recreational activities It has a convenience store, A-frame cabins, 18 private units, and RV sites as well as camping in the summer
SHIP OWNER SUED
Northern Health is suing a ship owner alleged to have reneged on bills for medical expenses.
According to a notice of claim filed March 24 in B.C. Supreme Court, a member of the crew aboard the Morning Cloud needed emergency medical care while the bulk cargo carrier had berthed at the Port of Prince Rupert in January 2021.
The crew member was in hospital for eight days, most of the time spent at Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace Cost of the care amounted to $45,489 and because the patient was a
foreign citizen, he did not qualify for coverage under public health insurance in Canada.
To date, the bills have not been paid, according to the claim and receipt of the invoices by Vitcay and Zodiac was confirmed by their appointment of counsel in B C to dispute charging non-residents rates for the care, the claim states.
The allegations have not been tested in court and the defendants have not yet filed responses.
CIVIC CENTRE RENO IN WORKS
City council approved a plan to refurbish, instead of carpeting over, the hardwood floors in the main auditorium of the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre.
Back in 2020, city council approved a budget of $296,885 to replace the flooring throughout the facility
Based on staff recommendations in a 2018 report, the plan had been to replace the hardwood flooring with carpet in the main auditorium of the
facility – a move which would have made the spaces no longer available for sports events.
“Since the original report in 2018, we’ve seen an increased demand for recreational space in our city, and the goal is to keep the auditorium open for a wide variety of uses, including, of course, conventions and conferences, but also year-round recreational use,” city director of civic facilities and events Andy Beesley said “Since the pandemic, and for a variety of reasons, there just seems to be less high school spaces and school uses less available. While it’s true that the conference and convention centre looks nicer to have carpeting in all the meeting spaces, and would look great, but we don’t believe we would lose any conferences because we don’t have carpet on the main auditorium floor ”
HOUSING
STARTS DROP
Prince George saw a 32 per cent drop in new housing starts in 2022, compared to 2021,
according to a report by the Chartered Professional Accountants of B C
There were 451 new housing starts in Prince George last year, compared with 665 in 2021
Throughout the Cariboo region, housing starts were down 25.3 per cent – with 600 total housing starts in 2022, compared to a record 803 in 2021
“Despite the number of housing starts falling last year, that’s from a record set in (2021) and the 600 units started were well above historical trends,” said Corey Naphtali of KPMG Canada
“The situation varied across the region, with declines in Quesnel and Prince George while Williams Lake saw strong growth ”
The 600 new housing starts in the region were above the annual average of 463 between 2016 and 2020
The region saw a 29 1 per cent drop in new attached units such as townhouses and apartments, and a 17.5 per cent decline in new starts of single-detached homes.
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Miracle Theatre delivers quirky comedy
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Miracle Theatre’s latest production is a comedy about a unique romantic journey between an injured dancer and an autistic scientist.
Mark St Germain’s Dancing Lessons is a charming story that sets the stage for witty banter that will make you laugh out loud while laying the groundwork for poignant moments that touch on complex themes like depression, friendship and intimacy
Vancouver-based actor Danielle Klaudt is Senga, a Broadway dancer who is recovering from a car accident and has an injured leg that may mean the end of her career.
She has dry and dark sense of humour which is a challenge for her neighbour Ever, played by Billy Lake, an autistic geo-scientist who has hired her to teach him how to dance Ever has to attend an upcoming awards banquet that’s being given in his honour and has hired Senga
Billy Lake and Danielle Klaudt star in Miracle Theatre’s Dancing Lessons
to teach him how to dance
She has reluctantly agreed, however, the task not only brings the two opposites
together but forces Senga to confront who she is without dance in her life. With great comedic timing, the two
actors deliver brilliant performances that are both humorous and heartfelt They have a believable chemistry that undoubtedly has the audience rooting for their relationship.
The play is a comedy but there are a few serious and unexpected moments both actors end up in their underwear at one point that takes the story from one that is simply charming to something more meaningful and memorable.
The newly renovated Knox Performance Centre also shines as a venue, displaying the expertly designed and detailed set that recreates Senga’s small New York apartment
And of course, Miracle Theatre productions, under the direction of Ted Price and Anne Laughlin, are fundraisers and proceeds from this production will go to establish the Refugee and Hope Endowment Fund at the Prince George Community Foundation.
Dancing Lessons goes until April 19 and tickets are $35 at Books & Co., 1685 Third Ave, or call 250-563-6637
Teen Art Showcase winners recognized
DALGLEISH
The winners of the Teen Art Showcase were presented with awards Saturday afternoon at the Prince George Public Library, which partnered with the Prince George & District Community Arts Council to celebrate the artistic talent of youth in Prince George. “On behalf of the Prince George & District Community
Arts Council and Studio 2880 I would like to say we are thrilled at the degree of talent of our local teen artists who have participated in this year’s event,” Lisa Redpath of the arts council said
The art was displayed in the staircase of the library where more than 13,000 could enjoy the exhibit during March.
Here are the winners of the awards:
Best Overall went to Connor Pryschlak for his work
entitled Reality
Most Original went to Roxie Aaronson for her work entitled Tea in the Woods
Best Use of Material went to Ava Matthews for her work entitled Northern Flicker
Best Social Commentary went to Kitty Swanson for her work entitle Reduce, Reuse, Returtle
People’s Choice went to Connor Pryschlak for his work entitled Reality.
MIRACLE THEATRE PHOTO
CHRISTINE
Citizen staff
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
You’ll feel deeply inclined to take a trip abroad or explore your local area. Some people could make it difficult if you’ve planned to go on this adventure with a group.
TAURUS
Some people will abuse your generosity Fortunately, your outspoken nature will ensure the record is set straight so you can get the respect you deserve
GEMINI
You must prepare for a negotiation Whether for work or to make a significant acquisition, you must gather the necessary information. This will require much patience
CANCER
This is an excellent week to resolve conflicts and wrongdoings. You’ll get your way You’ll also have to consider various details to regain harmony around you.
LEO
Buying a property requires time and money It’s a very profitable project that will help you gain self -esteem. You’ll feel a great deal of pride for this accomplishment. This isn’t something everyone can do.
VIRGO
You’ll enjoy beautiful moments with your family this week. You’ll have to work on a project with your loved ones, such as moving homes because new job. You may also be told about a birth.
LIBRA
Spring is in the air, and you’re ready to spoil yourself, especially with a new wardrobe. Your social life will be in full bloom. You have several outings planned.
SCORPIO
You have to look at home renovations as an investment. Emotional sharing is essential to a harmonious married life. Don’t lend money to a friend to keep the relationship cordial.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll have a burst of energy, allowing you to undertake several initiatives. Each one will be more exciting than the last, despite certain time restric tions or a particular financial situation.
CAPRICORN
If you don’t take the time to relax, you may find yourself under a lot of stress. Try to adopt a more spiritual lifestyle that aligns with your values to regain your sense of well -being.
AQUARIUS
Although you tend to be shy and discreet, you’ll be in good company this week. You could be in charge of an important meeting at work or a family gettogether
PISCES
You’ll be entitled to a promotion at work. If you’re looking for a job, you’ll land one with good prospects and quick advancement
classifieds
LucyFrancis Lange
April05,1934March29,2023
It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of our mother Lucy Francis Lange She had a beautiful smile and a kind lovingheart
Our mother was always willing to help out others She is predeceased by her Mother Ida Lange, Sister Irma Solowick and Brother Reinhold Lange A huge thank you to Doctor York and the nurses/caregivers in the Simon Fraser Lodge Spruce Wing. A very special thank you to Jeanne Fujikawa, who was always there for our mother Mom will be sadly missed by her daughters, Janet (Ralph), Dorothy and sons, David, Ira Also her two sisters, Rose Adams and Florence Trask and nieces, nephews andfriends
Mom is resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus.
William(Eldie) Ward
1934-2023
William (Eldie) Ward, 89, passed away on March 24th, 2023 surrounded by hislovingfamily
Eldie, aka “MacGyver” was a smart, gentle, strong man who could fix or build anything. He was always willing to help family and friends with any projectsfrombuildingdeckstorakinglawns.
Eldie is survived by Georgina, his loving wife of 69 years, his daughter Debbie (Pat), son Merle (Tammy), grandchildren Aaron (Tonia), Kylee (Corey), Cory (Brettney) and great grandchildren Emma and Jackson, as well as sisters Shelby (Barry), Gloria (Dale) and sister in-laws Dolly andShirley.
REMEMBRANCES
DavidWayneMacKay
December29th,1953-December31st,2022
It is with the deepest sorrow we announce the passing of David Wayne MacKay our adored husband,dad,papa,andfriend.
Dave passed away surrounded by those he loved at the Hospice House in Prince George, BC Dave is survived by his wife and best friend of 51 years Beatrice, Children Lee (Derald) Wrigley, Linda (Alfred) Strom, Grandchildren Tyler, Tyson (Adelya),Logan&Rachel
A celebration of life will be held on April 15th, 2023 from 12:30 - 3:30 at the Hart Pioneer Centre 6986HartHwy
In Lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Dave’s memory to the Prince George HospiceHouse
DONNADAVIS
2x83 0 PGC002
DAVIS, James C.
October 20, 1932 - March 2, 2023
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Davis in Vernon, BC.
Predeceased by his parents, IT (Buck) and Muriel Davis, stepmom Edith Davis, brother Tom Davis, sister Lila Owen, and in April 2011, his wife (our Mother), Teresa (Terry) Davis. Survived by his six children, Debbie (Kelly) Kellogg (Edmonton), Donna Davis (Courtenay), Dan Davis (Hixon), Judy Doyle (Prince George), Don (Yvonne) Davis (Prince George) and Daryl (Ella) Davis (Vernon), plus too many grandchildren to name.
Our father was born in Vernon, BC and moved to Vancouver as a teenager looking for work. He joined the Canadian Air Force in Dec 1952 as an Air Frame Technician and later became a Radar Technician. In 1954, while stationed in North Bay, Ont, he met his future wife (our Mother). In the military, we were stationed all across Canada, and our parents finally decided to retire in 1976 while stationed at Baldy Hughes, just outside Prince George, where most of the family lives today.
After leaving the military life behind him, our father worked for 23 years at BC Gov’t Liquor stores, and then he and Mom decided to move back to Vernon to be close to his family.
Our father was known for his love of military life, which included the Avro Arrow/CF 100 Canuck.
Leigh passed away in Prince George on March 22, 2023. He was born on December 21, 1950 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. He is pre-deceased by his parents Isabel and Earl Burrows He is survived by his two sisters and their families He was educated in Saskatchewan and Manitoba Leigh loved reading, the outdoors, his three dogs, the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Blue Jays andtheSaskatchewanRoughriders.
May he rest in peace
The family would like to thank Dr. Mori, as well as the staff at Creekside Landing Long-Term Care Home, where he spent the last five months of his life after suffering a stroke. We can’t forget his coffee and doughnut buddy, Earl Skerritt, who was especially dear to him in his final months.
By his request, there was no service, and any donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
Obituaries
GlennMooney
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Glenn Mooney on March 24, 2023 just shyofhis91stbirthday
Just 2 months after the passing of his wife Lillian, Glenn joined her in heaven. He is at peace once again being with his wife of 69 years.
Glenn will be greatly missed by his children Sandy (Jerry) and Murray (Charlene); his brother Wayne, his many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren,nieces,nephews,andmanyfriends
Glenn is predeceased by his wife Lillian, his son Doug (Shirley) and brothers,GordonandRussell
Glenn loved his family greatly and was always offering his advice and sharing his wisdom with them He had many stories of his past that he took great pleasure in telling. He was a very proud granddad and great granddad and took great pride in teaching his grandsons how to work onvehiclesorbuildsomething.
Glenn was always available to help anyone who needed something fixed!!!! He was self taught and was extremely knowledgeable and couldfixalmostanything.
Glenn loved a gathering and wanted to celebrate every occasion with family and friends Glenn and Lillian hosted many dinner parties in theirhome.
Glenn and Lillian were very involved in their church, while they were abletoo,anddevelopedmanywonderfulfriendships.
Extended family and long-time friendships were very important to Glenn. They were always reaching out to keep in touch with relatives andfriends
Glenn was born near Choiceland, Saskatchewan. It was in Choiceland thathemetandmarriedLillian.
After trying their hand at farming, Glenn and Lillian decided to move to Prince George in 1955 where they raised their 3 children and had a successful loggingtruckoperation.
Glenn and Lillian moved to Kelowna in 1979 where they purchased a 5 acre orchard that was a lot of work but also brought much joy especially for their grandchildren. In 1991 they sold the orchard and retired.
Due to health reasons, they moved to Vernon in 2019 to be closer to family
We would like to thank the staff at The Hamlets of Vernon for the love andcareshowntoGlennduringhistimethere.
DonationsmaybemadetoTheCanadianCancerSociety.
A Celebration of Life will be held for both Glenn and Lillian on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 @ 11am at Evangel Church, 3261 Gordon Drive,Kelowna Forever in our hearts
REMEMBRANCES
John Michalchuk
April22,1928March25,2023
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of John Michalchuk on March 25th, just shy of his 95thbirthday.
Survived by his loving wife Lillian, son Henry(Jan), daughters Nadine and Delilah, grandchildren; Kari-lynn(Shaun), Aaron (Lori), Jonathan (Christie), and Karla, great grandchildren; Madison, Jack, Jayden, Keira, Araya,Emery,Kinsley,Oliver,andQuinn.
Predeceased by his parents William and Tillie Michalchuk,andhisdaughterShirlyBleackley
Born in the Ukraine, John and his mother came to Canada in 1938 where they met up with his father who had immigrated 8 years prior to build a new life for them all The family farmed around Vilna, Alberta. In his teens, John worked at a local garage, then went to Whitecourt logging and eventually to Upper Fraser where his father was logging. John met his wife Lillian there around 1949. Back then everyone came to meet the train on Sundays, Lillian was moving there to join her family, and that’s when they first set eyes on each other. They were married in 1951 in Edmonton and resided in Vilna for awhile, where Henry was born. Beautiful BC called them back tho, so they moved to Upper Fraser for a “few years” residing there until 1967. Shirly and Nadine were born during those years John logged in the winters and worked at the planer mill in the summers He enjoyed hunting and fishing and built his own riverboats as they lived so close to the Fraser and Mcgregor rivers Many long time family friends were made while living in this area, people and memories he always cherished. John started playing guitar at a young age and there were many parties with him and friends playing music and having a good time The children grew upwiththis,somethingthey’vealwaystreasured. In 1967, the family moved to Prince George where Delilah was born. John started at Northwood Pulp in June of 1967, where he worked until his retirement in July, 1993. John and Lil purchased a brand new home when they moved to PG, where he lived until his passing. A wonderful area where the neighbors became close familyfriends.
John and Lilian spent their retirement doing what they loved, travelling to the ocean, local lakes and rivers Fishing, hunting, mushroom and berry picking. Wildlife photography and especially making videos were passions of his At age 80, John took an interest in computers, surfing the net, emailing friends and banking online Until the very end, John remembered every detail when he was telling stories from his memories We will misshimgreatly,butwewillcelebratehislife
Rest In Peace…
“Veechnia Pamyatt” Eternal Memory!
A special thank you to the amazing nurses at Hospice Noservicebyrequest
Obituaries
BarbaraEllen Wallace
1953-2023
Barbara went to be with the Lord on March 21, 2023. She is survived by her loving husband Ian Keith, son Ian Ambrose, brother Paul Wichtacz (Donna) and sister Teresa Wichtacz. She is pre-deceased by her parents Ambrose and Madeline Wichtacz Visitation and prayers were held on March 29, 2023 at the Immaculate Conception Church. Funeral services were held on March 30, 2023 with Father John Garden officiating. Internment followed in the Prince George Memorial Park Cemetery In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Foundation, St. Vincent de Paul or the Salvation Army
Turn Again To Life
by Mary Lee Hall
If I should die, and leave you here awhile
Be not like others sore undone, who keep
Long vigils by the silent dust and weep.
For my sake, turn again to life, and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
Something to comfort weaker hearts than thine.
Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine, And I, perchance, may therein comfort you!
JamesNorman(Norm) Dagenais
1942-2023
James Norman (Norm) Dagenais passed away on February 17, 2023 at the age of 80 in Prince George BC after over a decade long battle with frontotemporal dementia Norm was born on November 21 1942 to Henri and Eunice Dagenais in Prince Albert Saskatchewan Norm is survived by his wife of 54 years Jacqueline Dagenais, daughters Geneve Jasper (Leland) and Norma Dagenais (Travis Dionne), granddaughters Kim Nielsen and Katy Jasper, brothers Walt Dagenais and Art Dagenais, sisters Leona Cutting and Dorothy Dagenais (Debbie Armstrong), sisters-in-law Anne Gibson (Don), Carol Greba (Frank), brother-in-law Richard Frogge and many nieces and nephews Norm was predeceased by his Mom and Dad, sister Margaret, brother Don, brother-in-law Eric Cutting and sisters-in-law Dale DagenaisandJoyceFrogge
Norm will be remembered for his infectious smile, the twinkle in his eyes and his sense of humour He always had a joke on hand for any new person he met along the way or a special nickname for those that were close to the family. Norm had a positive outlook on life and loved adventures Norm worked a number of jobs before he found his love for building roads In the 1970s he started his own road building company Hiram Enterprises with the purchase of a TD25. He was very proud of the roads that he had a hand in building. Outside of work Norm had a love for music spending many holiday functions jamming with friends and family Later he started the Cottonwood Music FestivalsinFortStJames
Norm’s family would like to say a very special thank you to the nurses and staff at the Gateway Lodge in Prince George where Norm resided for the past eight years and to his friend Ron Atkins for taking him out on many tours of the city The family invites you to a Celebration of Life for Norm on April 8, 2023at2:00pmintheFortStJamesUnitedChurch.
Enquiries Only
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Dunkley Lumber Ltd. operates a modern and efficient sawmill and planermill facility at Strathnaver, 75 km south of Prince George, BC. We produce high quality lumber products that are sold across North America and in overseas markets. Please visit our website at www.dunkleylumber.com for more information about our company
We currently have an opening for a Maintenance Supervisor. Key responsibilities include providing supervision and technical training for shift personnel, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring the highest standard of workplace safety at all times.
The ideal candidate will possess the following technical skills and experience:
• Journeyperson certification as a Red Seal Millwright or relevant experience
• supervisory experience in a sawmill environment
ANNUAL PUBLIC MEETING
Wednesday, May 10, 2023 4:30pm-6:00pm
Uda Dune Baiyoh, House of Ancestors 355 Vancouver Street Prince George, BC
Please join us for the presentation of the 2022 Annual Report and Operational Review. This meeting will also include a Community Consultation Committee meeting.
• strong analytical troubleshooting skills with the ability to multitask under time constraints
• effective leadership skills with the ability to manage a team
• strong ability to coach and train others
• exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• a strong commitment to safety
This position offers a highly competitive wage and benefits program and rewarding opportunities to grow along with an industry-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 strict confidence. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Sheds/Outbuildings
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
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
Woodlot Licence Plan
Woodlot Licence 267
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 17 of the Woodlot Planning and Practices Regulation, that a Woodlot Licence Plan has been prepared for Woodlot Licence #267 held by Grandtrees Farm Ltd. This Woodlot Licence is located north and southwest of Hixon, BC If approved by the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, this plan may apply for a term of 10 years from the date of approval.
This Woodlot Licence Plan is available for public review and comment by from March 20, 2023 to April 28, 2023. Any written comments on the plan should be mailed to: S. M. Forrest & Associates Ltd. , #100-466 2nd Avenue, Prince George, B.C., V2L 2Z7
Please contact Scott Forrest, RPF, at 250-961-4880, or at sforrest@pgonline.com, to book an appointment to review and/or discuss the plan.
COURT BAILIFF SALE
NORTH CENTRAL BAILIFFS LTD www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca
The Court Bailiff offers FOR SALE BY TENDER, the interest of Shaun Michael Bucsis, the Judgment Debtor, in the following goods:
2010 Dodge RAM 1500 VIN: 1D7RV1CT2AS153849
Vehicle missing keys
Sale is subject to cancellation or adjournment without notice Bids will be accepted on the unit until May 2nd, 2023. Goods to be sold as is where is Bids can be placed on our website, www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca Bidder takes responsibility to ensure they are satisfied with the description of unit/goods being sold. North Central Bailiffs Ltd. is not responsible for determining the correct description. Terms of sale: Immediate full payment upon successful bid, plus sales tax.
North Central Bailiffs Ltd.
Court Bailiff Division
Chris Nevison
SUDOKU
Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
How to write a classified ad that works. keyword. your ad with the item for
• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, service offered or the job title.
• Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response.
• Limit abbreviations Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.
• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.
• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300
WAREHOUSEMAN’S LIEN ACT
To advertise, call 250-562-6666 or email cls@pgcitizen.ca
JamalHanson 2000Nissan Maxima JN1CA31D1YT723897 1,876.73 AustinBagg
1,124.33
5 interior design tips to make your windows look bigger
If your home doesn’t have large picture windows, here are a few tips to make your modest windows look larger
1. Hang the curtain rod strategically. If you want your window to appear taller and broader, install the curtain rod about 10 centimetres above the window trim. Moreover, the curtain rod should extend about 20 centimetres off the window frame on each side. This will trick the eye into thinking the window is bigger than it is
2. Invest in high-quality drapes. Choose a high-quality fabric made of thick, sturdy material to help hide the line between the wall and the window Patterned fabrics also draw the eye upwards, making
the window look taller.
3. Paint the wall around the window a dark colour. If the window frame is white, painting your walls white may make it fade into the background Consider painting the wall surrounding your window a cool, dark colour to make it pop
4. Put up a large mirror. Hang a large mirror on the wall across from the window to let more light into the room. This will give the illusion of a bigger window.
5. Place low furniture around the window. When decorating your space, place small or low-profile furniture pieces near the window, so the eye is tricked by the scale.
4 signs
you need to replace your soffit
Your home’s soffits and fascia boards protect your attic and roof from water infiltration and keep pests out Here are four signs it’s time to have yours repaired or replaced.
1. The paint is peeling or flaking. Once the paint on your soffits and fascia begins to deteriorate, it creates an opening for moisture to permeate the boards This can result in water damage to the roof, interior walls and siding
2. The gutters are loose. The soffit and fascia boards act as the support system for your gutters Consequently, if you notice your gutters are wobbly and unsteady, the fascia or soffits likely require repair
and fascia
3. Pests are hanging around your home. Your soffits and fascia boards are designed to keep rodents, bugs and other small critters from getting into your home. Therefore, bite marks, nesting materials or droppings in your home’s attic often indicate that your soffits and fascia must be repaired.
4. There’s little to no ventilation. Soffits provide ventilation and prevent condensation in your attic If you notice that your home seems stuffy, your soffits are probably blocked or damaged
Contact a local roofing contractor to inspect your soffits and fascia and make any necessary repairs
How to re-caulk a shower
Applying fresh caulk to your shower can instantly brighten up the space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
• Choose a caulk. There are two types of caulk for tubs and tiles: silicone and acrylic latex Silicone caulk is durable and flexible but tricky to apply Latex caulk is easy to apply but may need to be redone more often
• Remove the existing caulk. Use a utility or putty knife to scour the edges of the old caulk. Once separated, firmly pull it away from the surface. Be careful not to scratch or damage your shower while doing this
the entire surface length. Keep the gun moving consistently, so the caulk doesn’t thin out or pile up.
• Clean the area. Remove any remaining caulk residue with a dry, non-abrasive scouring pad Then, wipe the area with a damp cloth and let it dry completely
• Apply the new caulk. Cut the tip of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle and insert it into the caulk gun. Hold the nozzle at a 90-degree angle from the surface you want to caulk. Apply steady pressure to the trigger and move your nozzle down
• Smooth the caulk. Take a damp cloth and gently press a small area of the material into the caulking line with your finger In one continuous motion, drag your finger down the length of the seam to create a nice smooth surface
Finally, let the caulk set for 24 hours before using your shower. You can pick up everything you need for this quick fix at your local hardware store.
3 alternatives to lazy Susans
The lazy Susan is probably one of the most well-known and recognized kitchen cabinet accessories However, many homeowners complain that it isn’t practical If you’re remodelling your kitchen, here are three lazy Susan alternatives you may want to consider
1. Super Susan trays spin independently on the shelves inside the corner cabinet. You can add up to three trays, depending on your storage needs. This feature eliminates the pole many people hate on a standard lazy Susan, which allows you to store larger items
2. Magic corner pull-outs are doormounted shelves that swing out of the corner cabinet Many models also include back shelves that can be pulled out individually for easy loading and unloading
3. Corner drawers are the most ergonomic option because you get the most
space to store things. However, they’re expensive and can only be included as part of a new build because of their large opening and clearance requirements. Finally, you can also opt to block out the corner completely Sometimes forfeiting access to the corner creates other benefits, such as getting a larger drawer bank Consult your contractor to determine the most practical option for your needs.
Do you have an old chair or couch lying around with outdated upholstery?
Don’t throw it away! Paint it instead Here’s a short guide on how to give your furniture a new life
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINT
Although you can purchase fabric paint specifically designed for painting furniture, latex and acrylic paint also work. However, you must use a fabric or textile medium. Use a ratio of one part paint, one part fabric medium and two parts water.
PREPARE THE FABRIC
Vacuum all the nooks and crannies in the furniture to eliminate dust and debris Spot clean stains with water and a little dish detergent and let dry Then, tape around the chair or sofa legs, including decorative accents you don’t want to cover in paint
Next, use a spray bottle to wet the fabric It doesn’t need to be soaking wet, just damp That’ll help the first coat of paint soak into the fabric
APPLY THE PAINT
Use a wide paintbrush or sprayer to apply the first coat of paint while the fabric is still damp. Use a smaller paintbrush to reach areas where the fabric folds. Let dry com-
pletely. Once dry, sand the fabric with extra fine sandpaper to keep it soft to the touch. Repeat this process as many times as necessary. The number of coats required depends on the paint colour and the fabric you’re painting. Smooth cotton or poly blends are the easiest to paint, while textured and woven fabrics are more challenging.
Visit a home improvement store and speak with a paint specialist for tips on how to get the best results
Have you carefully sorted your belongings down to the essentials, but your home is still a mess? Don’t worry! Here are a few tips to help you tidy up
1.TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPACE. Go around your home and look for unused spaces underneath staircases and beds, over cupboards and behind doors Make the most of this space with hooks, shelves and storage bins.
How to paint upholstery 4 tips for tidying your home
2. STORE SEASONAL ITEMS. For instance, put your camping gear and Christmas decorations in marked bins or bags and store them in your basement or shed. Make sure these items are easily accessible when you need them.
3.KEEP FREQUENTLY USED ITEMS AT HAND. It doesn’t make sense to stow away items you use several times a day or week. Instead, place them within easy reach or on attractive displays. Keep rarely used products out of sight unless they’re
particularly decorative
4. INVEST IN MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE. Convertible furniture, multi-purpose shelving and storage benches or ottomans are perfect for stowing away things in style Visit your local stores to explore your options
Consult a specialist in your area for personalized advice on organizing your home
Expert tips for maintaining your flooring
Have you finished most of your spring cleaning but haven’t washed your floors? Here are a few tips for maintaining your flooring without damaging it
• Ceramic tiles. Clean the grout lines with a product specifically designed for this purpose After letting the product soak in, scrub the grout with a clean brush or cloth and rinse You can easily clean the surface of the tiles with a mixture of water and white vinegar.
• Vinyl. This popular material is easy to care for and will look new for years Gently mop the floor with a vinyl cleaner to remove grime Then, rinse with clean water and let dry.
• Floating floor. This type of flooring is practical and attractive but vulnerable to moisture. Therefore, avoid soaking it with water when washing it. Purchase a product designed for floating floors. Follow the instructions to restore your floor to its former glory.
• Hardwood. Restore the shine of this elegant material with an environmentally friendly, no-rinse cleaner. That way, you won’t leave behind streaks or residue. Avoid using scouring pads and
