B.C. CHAMPS The Prince George Youth Volleyball Club’s U15 Kodiak Girls Red won the B.C. Provincial Championships in Abbotsford last weekend Delaney Turner of the Kodiaks was named the tournament’s most valuable player and her teammates Tyler Dahl and Olivia Young were named all-stars. The rest of the team includes Emma Young, Natalie Bond, Nadia Lennox, Eva Allen, Maggie Glover, Emily Clarke, Brooklyn Hoy, Sydney Davis, and Avery Johansen. The Kodiaks are coached by Mark Lafleur, Jon Glover, and Carly Connor.
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Federal environmental regulations regarding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in paint have reduced the longevity of road markings in Prince George. Director of civic operations Blake McIntosh said Environment Canada began limiting levels of VOCs in 2009 which can be contained in road-marking paint. Road paint cannot have more than 450 grams per litre of VOCs and, as of 2012, paint applied between May 1 and Oct. 15 cannot have more than 150 grams per litre of VOCs “Prior to 2009, City staff had experienced better life expectancy of roadway markings with the approved use of paint products containing higher VOC concentrations Being a winter city, the new paint standard does not withstand snowplow blades and scouring as vehicle tires roll over winter traction material,” McIntosh said See ALTERNATIVES EXPENSIVE, page 4
65 years of friendship found in local man’s shed
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
Eight Prince George men who have known each other for as long as 65 years still get together once a week for coffee in Wil Wiens’ shed.
The common thread that binds them together is education in Prince George
And the reason they’re in the shed? The pandemic drove them out of a coffee shop and the shed was the only place they could all fit safely.
Wil Wiens, 92, is a former principal of King George V school, and he has gathered former students, teachers and parents of former students together every Friday at 10 a m for years
Oddly enough, the group includes two teachers named Don Wilkins and when they first started working for SD 57 the bearded Don Wilkins, who was a teacher and counselor, got the spectacled teacher Don Wilkins’ cheque by mistake for a month.
“They were finally paying me what I was worth,” bearded Don deadpanned.
Spectacled Don smiled and nodded in agreement
Greg Drozda, teacher, and Dr. Larry Merritt, who was a former student of Wil’s, were also on hand along with Doug Allen, a machinist, whose children were taught by
Grade 5 when Wil was their teacher.
“We played hockey together, we grew up together ” Doug said.
“I don’t know did we grow up?” Larry asked Doug with mischief in his eyes.
They laughed
The trio played hockey together and they’ve stayed connected off and on for their entire lives Then during the last 10 years they’ve had coffee frequently and slowly the group grew until Wil brought them all together under his shed roof.
Because what else can you do when there’s more than 50 years of shared history with the teachers and more than 65 years of shared history with his former students?
“And there are three things we never talk about,” Wil Wiens said
And yes, you guessed it, the no-no topics are religion, politics and sex
bearded Don and who was taught by spectacled Don in the automotive shop at PGSS that sent him on his machinist career path
Absent were teacher Gary Clements and Tom Ukonmaanaho, also a machinist, who worked with Doug at the same business and whose son was taught by bearded Don as well Bearded Don even taught Wil’s children Larry, Doug and Gary have known each other since
But they always find so much more to talk about and they are just happy to be together, they all agreed.
“We ask for advice and there are always a lot of answers to choose from,” Larry said.
The group agreed they will continue to meet for as long as they’re able.
“Wil makes the best coffee around, so we’ll keep coming back,” bearded Don said.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Wil Wiens, a former Prince George school principal, has gathered former teachers and students he’s known for as long as 65 years for coffee every Friday in his shed Beside Wil is Don Wilkins and Greg Dozda
City to remove downtown encampment
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
On Monday night, Prince George city council approved a motion directing city staff to begin the process to “stop overnight camping at Millennium Park and commence remediation of that site.”
The city park, located at the corner of First Avenue and George Street, has been the site of an encampment since last year
City director of public safety Adam Davey said staff will return to city council with more details about the plan to remove the encampment and remediate the site at a future meeting
“This is just the start of a process,” Davey said “The planning process for this is not quick. It’s not happening tomorrow ”
City council approved final reading of an amendment to the city’s Parks and Open Space Bylaw, designating the Lower Patricia encampment – named Moccasin Flats by residents – as the only public space in the city where overnight camping is allowed.
In October 2021, the B.C. Supreme Court ruled that the city must allow the Lower Patricia encampment to remain open until suitable housing for all residents was available
camping cannot be reasonably enforced because there is nowhere for those who cannot access shelter space to lawfully shelter overnight which, again, is not constitutional,” Davey wrote “Once one or more sites become designated as a lawful temporary overnight camping area, the City will be at liberty to consider enforcement steps in areas where camping remains prohibited.”
Only time will tell if we made the right decision.”
The city cannot prohibit camping in all city parks and public spaces, following a 2008 BC Supreme Court decision involving the City of Victoria, Davey wrote in a report which went to city council on Monday
“Presently, the prohibition against
City staff are aware there are other encampments in the city, and expect to continue receiving complaints to bylaw services about encampments in other areas, he said.
However, given the size of the task, and the limit on city resources, the city is starting with Millennium Park Coun. Brian Skakun said the park is
“absolutely destroyed ” “If there is a ground zero, that’s it,” Skakun said Coun. Trudy Klassen was the sole
member of council to oppose the motion. Klassen said the Lower Patricia encampment site doesn’t have the services to accommodate an influx of people from other sites around the city.
“I can’t support it today,” she said
A BC Supreme Court ruling from Maple Ridge makes it clear there is “no obligation upon municipalities to provide shelter, utilities or other supports to unhoused individuals,” according to Davey’s wrote to council It is up to the B C Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to provide those services
“This isn’t an easy decision,” Coun Ron Polillo said “(But) it’s time we made a decision and moved forward Only time will tell if we made the right decision ” Coun Tim Bennett said the relocation of people from Millennium Park should be done as humanely and collaboratively as possible.
“We need to have a more suitable place for people to go,” Mayor Simon Yu said. “This is important, we need to get this one right.”
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
An encampment in Millenium Park at the corner of First Avenue and George Street in downtown Prince George is seen on May 4
Memorial cross reported stolen
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
A mother is hoping to have a cross that she placed in memory of her daughter returned after it was seemingly stolen from its resting place.
Lori Wells’ daughter Sandra Ferguson died of an overdose on April 12, 2022 Wells travelled from the Lower Mainland to Prince George to mark the one year anniversary of her death to place a cross where Sandra’s body was found, near the Alpine Village residential complex.
“We went and had a little ceremony and we placed a cross and then somebody took it,” explains Wells, noting they discovered it was missing just three days after they placed it
Wells said her nephew spoke to the Alpine Village strata who assured them they did not take it down
“So, somebody took it for no reason It wasn’t because it was in the wrong place or anything,” said Wells She said the cross was a memorial for Sandra, but she also hoped it would raise awareness about how the toxic drug crisis is affecting the city.
“People need to know what’s going on in that town When Sandra died, many of her friends had already passed before her and more have gone since There’s a serious thing going on in Prince George right now,” said
Wells
“I kind of wanted the cross to be there as a memorial for her so that other people can see so that it’s visible All these young folks are dying, and nobody knows about it It’s terrible ”
After posting about the cross on social media, Wells said they still have no leads on its location
“We’d love to have it back. Really, I just want to have it.
I’m planning on bringing it home Obviously, it’s not safe up there. I was just going to make a little memorial for her at my home ”
Wells said the cross was made by Sandra’s ex-boyfriend, who would also appreciate its return
“It was made with a whole lot of love. It was made with you know, a lot of tears I know it would mean a lot to him to get it back.”
Alternatives expensive
Continued from page 1
City staff are working with their contractors to find longer-lasting alternatives that aren’t cost-prohibitive, he added.
“Thermoplastic long lines are 12 times more expensive than approved paint. Cold plastic methacrylate resin long lines are 16 times more costly than approved paint,” he wrote in a report
For 2023, the city’s budget for
repainting traffic markings is $471,976, which covers the cost of hiring contractors to paint all municipal traffic and pedestrian road markings, including: approximately 600 pedestrian crossings, 500 stop bars, 610 directional arrows and 460 kilometres of solid, double and dashed white and yellow lines
“Should other more expensive products be employed, an increase in the annual line paint budget would be required.”
Lori Wells is hoping for the return of a wooden cross placed in memory of her daughter, Sandra Ferguson, right, who died on April 12, 2022, near Alpine Village in Prince George
Mom horrified by hospital treatment of her son
Editor’s oops: This story started on the front of last week’s paper but didn’t finish on page 5 as it was supposed to. Here is a fuller version of that story
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
A Prince George mom has filed a complaint with Northern Health after her adult son suffering from a mental health crisis was kept in the emergency ward at University Hospital of Northern B.C. for more than five days with no treatment. “He was there for five nights and on Saturday morning he was texting me and he was still in the hallway, he hadn’t
had a shower and the conditions were absolutely deplorable,” Cathy said about her son that will be referred to as Z. “He hadn’t brushed his teeth, hadn’t been given a clean gown, clean sheet or a clean pillow He was literally stuck in the hallway in emergency – he never ever made it to the psych ward It was horrific ”
Cathy went to the hospital after work on Saturday to see if she could advocate for her son.
“They wouldn’t let me take him for a walk, he hadn’t seen the light of day in five days,” Cathy explained “This is a mental health issue and the entire treatment was not conducive to improving
mental health at all. In fact, I think it made it worse It was absolutely horrendous ”
Cathy spent Saturday night with Z in the emergency department hallway
When Z was admitted to the hospital he was handed a piece of paper to read about his rights under the Mental Health Care Act and of course, in mental health distress, Z didn’t read it.
“So I read it and according to the piece of paper they were not fulfilling their obligations,” Cathy said “It’s simply unacceptable.”
Cathy said she’s been advocating for the last five years for Z to get treatment for his mental health issues
Cathy said she is often overwhelmed with the situation because she is not a mental health professional.
“Parents are not qualified to deal with this,” Cathy said.
Since he wasn’t getting treatment at the hospital, she finally gave up after five days and took Z home Sunday afternoon
“I’m hoping I don’t have to take him back to emergency, because I don’t feel he gets any care there,” Cathy said. “Nothing changes and I just thought somebody has to say something and maybe then there will be change ”
Cathy has taken further action and written letters and filed a complaint
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What to do if you find a discarded needle
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
Discarded needles are everywhere in Prince George – green spaces, parking lots, parks, sidewalks and walkways, private property, public bathrooms and other locations. But what should you do if you find one?
According to information released by Northern Health and the City of Prince George, children should be taught to never touch a discarded needle and to inform an adult immediately
If you have the appropriate equipment and feel comfortable disposing of the needle, follow these steps: Pick up the needle by the plastic barrel, using tongs, pliers or a gloved hand
Point the needle tip down and away from yourself or anyone else Do not try to put the cap back on
Put the needle in a strong plastic container like a bleach bottle or peanut butter jar. Screw the lid on, and seal it with tape (duct tape is best) Don’t use glass jars that can break or thin plastic containers like milk jugs which can be penetrated by a needle Take the sealed container to Northern Health’s Harm Reduction Clinic at 1108 Third Ave Do not dispose of needles into the garbage or flush them down a toilet.
near Massey Drive last week
If you are near a blue needle drop box, place the needle inside the box instead. A map of needle drop boxes operated by the City of Prince George is included in this story.
If you don’t have the equipment to dispose of a needle safely, don’t feel safe doing it, find a group of needles discarded together or find one or more needles broken into pieces, don’t attempt to dispose of the needle yourself.
Be careful if disposing of needles discarded in tall grass or any other area where needles could be hidden More needles may be discarded in the same area, but not immediately visible
Call the City of Prince George at 250-561-7600, report the location of the needles on the city’s website, or use the City of Prince George mobile app.
If you continue to find needles in the same area, phone the City of Prince George and report the issue. The city may be able to install a needle disposal box in that area
Wash the area well with soap and water, and then go directly to the emergency room at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. for assessment, Northern Health advises Do not squeeze the wound to try to make it bleed more, this can damage the tissue and make it easier for an infection to enter the bloodstream
“The vast majority of people who get poked by a used needle do not get sick, because most viruses die within minutes to hours after being exposed to the open air But since there is no way to know how recently the needle was discarded, it is best to be cautious,” Northern Health advises. “The main infections that can be spread by used needles are hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).”
For more information on safe needle handling, see Northern Health’s Safe Needle Disposal Guide.
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Graduates celebrated
There was a celebration at Baldy Hughes Therapeutic Community & Farm to honour five graduates entering the integration stage of their program.
“A lot of the time when people are in recovery and leaving treatment they have little support when they go back into their own community,” Angela Carter, executive director at Baldy Hughes, said. “So we’re really trying to emphasize that last phase where residents are given the tools
they need to look for employment and housing after leaving Baldy Hughes ” Several dignitaries were invited to the recent graduation celebration and among those in attendance was Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Chief Dolleen Logan and Mayor Simon Yu.
“Councillor Kyle McIntosh and I were honoured to participate in the graduation ceremony at the Baldy Hughes Therapeutic Community & Farm,” Chief Logan said.
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Lheidli T’enneh Councillor Joshua Seymour was driving into Prince George with his window slightly down when he was hit in the face by a grouse. He was on his way into town from the Lheidli T’enneh community driving about 50 km/hr with his window down about four inches when the bird flew into the vehicle and hit him in the neck
“From what I understand driving at that speed with that much wind and the size of the bird it was perfect timing,” he said Seymour said the bird hit him so hard
there was ringing in his ears and he immediately stopped his truck and put it into park to figure out what happened.
“Originally I thought someone threw a snowball or something but it is a rural road, there’s nobody on the road, and I didn’t see anyone and I was confused.”
He said the bird, which was stuck between his neck and the head rest then started flapping, which scared him so he took off his seatbelt and jumped out of the truck That’s when the bird flew into the back seat of the vehicle.
“I thought did someone throw a grouse at me?” laughed Seymour, adding he was still dazed “It didn’t make sense as to
what happened, and for some reason that was the first conclusion, and then I realized the grouse flew in and hit me. Being a millennial, I had to pull out my phone and get proof because no one was going to believe the story ”
One of Seymour’s relatives, Trent, happened to be driving home at the same time and he stopped to see what happened
“I told him what had happened, and said, ‘I got hit by grouse’ and he said, ‘did it damage your truck?’ and I said, ‘No, it hit me in the face!’”
Semyour and Trent then opened the truck’s back door and after a few minutes
the grouse safely jumped out of the truck and flew away
“The first thing I did was posted the video because I wanted to make sure that everyone knew I wasn’t making stories up,” said Seymour, adding he was surprised about how much attention his video has received
He said everyone he’s spoken to has been very concerned about the well-being of the grouse.
“Everybody asked is the bird okay and no one asked if I was okay that was always the second-hand question Is the grouse okay? Yeah well, I’m okay too Thanks mom ”
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
MOM WORRIED SENDING HER KIDS OFF TO SCHOOL
The purpose of this letter is to address several issues I have encountered as a parent with three children attending Nusdeh Yoh Elementary School These issues include unnecessary child protection reports, bullying, teacher malpractice, and poor administration
On March 29, the grade 6/7 class had a C O P E presentation on suicide awareness No permission forms were sent home, and as a parent I felt unprepared for the events that followed. The Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) contacted me to open a Family Service file due to a report made by the school After investigation, it was brought to my attention that the report likely came from the guest presenters at the school when my child disclosed a historical incident that was already addressed.
This report triggered the entire family as we have a long history with MCFD. A few days later, my child came forward with high-risk suicidal ideation. Granted, the presentation may have been beneficial in bringing this to light; however, as a parent I would have appreciated being notified prior to the presentation so I felt better equipped for the days that followed. Administration should have properly screened guest presenters who are not School District 57 staff and followed protocol for sending home permission forms for participation.
This year, another child of mine has
been severely struggling with bullying from students in his classroom that has gone on unaddressed On April 19, my child landed in the hospital due to being hit in the head with a rock outside on the playground. The incident spurred a schoolwide lock down as my child lost blood all over the halls. I was contacted and immediately took my child to the hospital to seek medical attention where my son disclosed to the doctor that classmates got angry and were purposefully throwing rocks at him
I question why paramedics were not contacted for this head injury I was not informed of any consequences or accountability for these other classmates
My child and I are left feeling like we have no closure with this incident and are not being properly supported by the school to address this As a parent, I question the
level of supervision provided at Nusdeh Yoh Elementary and feel unsafe sending my children to school
Teachers are not teaching with a trauma-informed lens and should have additional training and supports provided to them when working in an Indigenous Choice school. My children should not experience nitpicking, bullying, or yelling in their place of learning. The school is being poorly managed by the administration team and I do not know what it will take to increase educational success, safety, and cultural sensitivity.
Previously, I have attempted to rectify these issues directly with the teachers, the school principal, and the former superintendent of SD57. I want to feel safe sending my children to school and confident that they are getting the education they deserve I am calling on the Lheidli
T’enneh Band, the City of Prince George, School District 57, and Indigenous Agencies to help rectify the current challenges faced by my family, and likely others, at Nusdeh Yoh Elementary School
Amanda Paladino, Prince George
ALERT KEPT ME SAFE
I read with interest the Citizen article on the trial of a Vanderhoof resident shooting at the Vanderhoof RCMP station about a year and a half ago
My personal interest is because I was there in Vanderhoof and was nearly caught up in the event. I had picked up lunch at the KFC, parked across the highway in a Vanderhoof park to eat lunch, because of COVID-19 sitting inside a safe restaurant was not an option. I was just finishing when I got an Emergency Alert on my phone about an active shooter in Vanderhoof
I had not heard any gunshots but did pay attention to the alert I got in my car and headed downtown to do some business when I drove by two RCMP officers standing on a street corner with rifles. When I got home and looked at the news on my computer, I was surprised that the incident ended at a tire shop That tire shop was right beside the municipal park that I had eaten lunch minutes before the RCMP ended this violent incident peacefully I would like to thank the RCMP involved for ending this incident peacefully and sending out a timely Emergency Alert. Wayne Martineau, Fraser Lake
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
GOOD CANDIDATES NEEDED
School District 57 is now accepting nominations for candidates in the upcoming by-election until May 12th. While I hope that there will be some strong candidates that come forward, I am worried that we are going to see candidates who are only running to push their homophobic/gender identity views and/or opposition to Indigenous reconciliation in schools that we have seen in past elections.
At the last school board meeting, we saw homophobia rear its ugly head once again when a person in the gallery was so triggered by local PGDTA President Darryl Beaureguard’s SOGI presentation that he decided to interrupt the meeting on numerous occasions At first, the person made out to present himself as a defender of democracy but it didn’t take long for his true reason for interrupting the meeting to come out when he started complaining about SOGI policies in schools
We need trustees who can recognize the sneaky tactics of people who claim they are standing up for democracy or educational outcomes but are really wanting to combine an issue that most people can agree with like wanting the district to focus on improved reading and then casually slipping in their opposition to SOGI policies
Their hope is that people will let their anti-SOGI comments slide because they led with an education issue or protection of democracy argument. But these comments shouldn’t go unchecked by parents, the public or the board of trustees.
Parents shouldn’t let homophobic or anti-Indigenous reconciliation candidates slide into trustee positions uncontested
As Darryl Beaureguard pointed out in his presentation to the board, anti-SOGI activists are organizing and are running coordinated campaigns in elections all across the country
When they don’t get elected, they are busy disrupting board meetings and putting homophobic banners up on the cutbanks as we have witnessed in Prince George. There are two things parents can do to help ensure a strong board of trustees.
Talk to your neighbours and friends and encourage people that you feel are strong leaders to run for a trustee position
The second is to encourage as many people you can to come out and vote on Saturday June 17 as voter turnout is usually low.
Let’s get our district back on track by electing trustees that want to protect an inclusive and safe environment for students to learn in
Richard Parks, Prince George HARD
RESET NEEDED
What is needed is levelheaded clear governance and leadership, that of which we are not getting from Prince George city hall
Delegated authority is not working when we have issues like 4500 Ospika Blvd
What was sold to council and the public was on the outside a great idea for a student housing project that would service not only UNBC but CNC students. Then it all started to change once the land was cleared and word was going around that the land was not listed publicly for sale as it should have been
Covenants are safeguards to ensure a project is living up to its claims
They are placed there for reasons to protect not only the public, but the city as a whole
We have seen where delegated authority has been abused and misused in the past
Maybe we have been making a critical error in who we are granting this authority to
We all hear the phrase transparency time and again, but when it comes to some aspects of city operations, transparency is the last thing you will ever see.
Councillors are the voice of the people of the City of Prince George, they are the public watchdogs, to ensure we are moving is a good direction If they are not kept up to speed and able to be asked for opinions and decisions, why do we have them?
Given the errors of the past and the numerous times the city has been before the courts, it’s high time that our civic leaders take control of our city.
The job isn’t all about photo ops, ribbon cuttings, being at social functions, hob knobbing the public and other government officials
Maybe we need a hard reset and re-evaluate how our city administration is operating and who’s really in charge of the city.
Too many patronage positions have been granted
within the city and folks who shouldn’t be handling files are doing a great job at getting us into court time and again for one reason or another.
From the rock quarry issue to the encampment bulldozing, clearly someone is taking liberties they shouldn’t be and when the public is made aware of it, it’s an outrage time and again.
This seems to happen every time someone who’s not qualified to make decisions is granted the power to do just that, and we as taxpayers are left holding the bill John Zukowski, Prince George SMARTER
LAWS NEEDED
To Justin Trudeau, the problem you are having with certain firearms and your attempt to solve it has finally come to light
Suddenly, it becomes obvious that there are as many guns in the hands of criminals as ever, and restricting and seizing guns will solve nothing.
Not only that, but the occurrence of killing and injuring has greatly increased through the use of knives! Does this mean we should now ban the carrying of certain types of knives?
If we do that, are sharp sticks and heavy clubs next? How about banning clenched fists?
The problem is, and always has been, the person and not the weapon.
I think it all boils down to there being too many humans living too close together.
We don’t get along at the best of times, and forced living in less and less space will certainly lead to more violence and harm
That’s the problem, and so far, there is no solution. Tim Woodart, Quesnel
Skier logs big miles each winter
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
A 78-year-old cross country skier put in 1,350 km on the trails in Prince George this past season.
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In his long history as a skier, Lauri Karjaluoto has competed in the global arena, as well as at the national and provincial levels.
After growing up in Finland where he would ski to school as a youngster, Karjaluoto moved to Canada in 1968. When he heard about the great cross-country ski club in Prince George, he moved from Vancouver in 1972 because it was the place to be
“I only ski the local loppet now,” Karjaluoto said talking about what he does now, 50 years later.
He makes it sound like such an easy thing but it’s actually 15km and sometimes he does it more than once in a single day at Caledonia Nordic Ski Centre where he mostly skis these days.
“When I turned 70 until I was 75 I skied my age in kilometres for my birthday,” Karjaluoto said “It really wasn’t that hard. Many of the local skiers would take turns skiing along with me. It was always lots of fun!”
Karjaluoto wants everyone to know that you’re never to old to start something new.
“It’s not like your technique is everything,” Karjaluoto explained. “You just come here and get your arms and legs moving and you find that all the people here at Otway are happy people.”
Some days Karjaluoto said he thinks he could’ve skied a lot farther
but most days he has to stop to socialize along the trail and that’s a good thing.
“Just come out and ski,” Karjajuoto said.
To check out the Masters in Motion show to see Karjaluoto in action visit www youtube com/ MastersinMotionKarjaluoto or check out the show on television on Shaw Spotlight.
High jumper taking big leaps
Caleb Emon, a senior U20 national-level high jumper, was recognized during the Prince George Track & Field Club Sub Zero meet held at Masich Place last weekend as he signed with Trinity Western University Athletics.
“I am really excited to go to university,” Emon said. “It’s always been a dream of mine to keep competing as I get older and my dream has always been to go to the Olympics so it’s a good stepping stone for that so I’m super excited ”
Emon said he’s gotten a lot better in high jump during the last couple of years
“I’ve improved a lot, learned a lot and over all I’m just super excited,” Emon said
and grow. So that was good. I learned a lot about getting back into training ”
High jump is an event that takes a lot of athleticism and a lot of technique, he said
He experienced a significant injury after his Grade 10 season so heading into Grade 11 it was pretty tough going for a while.
“I had to relearn a lot of stuff,” Emon explained “But it ended up working really well for me because it gave me a good break so my muscles could relax, stretch
“I think learning the technique and bettering my technique is super fun,” Emon said “Learning how to be better and fix things up is important because small, minute details can be the difference between being the best and not being able to do any of your jumps ”
And for people just starting out in high jump here’s a few words of advice
“Don’t think about how high you’re jumping,” Emon said “If you’re not jumping that high and you’re the worst in the competition It does not matter. As long as you find your form, feel comfortable in the air and don’t get scared of the bar – those things are more important than being good early I wasn’t doing very well at the beginning of high school and then I got way better and it just worked out ”
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Lauri Karjaluoto moved to Prince George from Vancouver in 1972 for the cross-country skiing
CALEB EMON
Photographer chosen for national exhibit
HANNA PERSEN Citizen staff
Local photographer Terrill Bodner has had three images selected for exhibition in a national salon celebrating the best of Canadian professional photography. The 2023 National Image Salon of the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) saw a panel of master photographers judge the best work submitted by professional photographers from across Canada The salon was held during the PPOC annual conference on April 22 in Canmore, Alberta
The competition features entries from across Canada in 23 different classes,
including press, portrait, architecture and fashion. Three of Bodner’s images called Backbone, A Million Stars Above, and Predator and Protector were selected.
In addition to demonstrating the makers’ ability to create outstanding images for their clientele, inclusion into the salon earns the maker merits toward several designations offered to PPOC members, including the prestigious Craftsman of Photographic Arts and Master of Photographic Arts.
“Photographers must show extraordinary talent to win an award among such illustrious company,” said Tina Weltz MPA, SPA, Chair of the National Exhibition Committee
Steve Elliott, best known for his Elvis impersonation, is once again presenting his tribute to Mother’s Day Show at the Treasure Cove Casino Main Ballroom May 13.
Elliott has been performing in Prince George for more than fourteen years and along with his popular Mother’s Day concert, he performs Christmas and Gospel concerts as well.
Elliott took top honours when he won the Elvis prize at the Pacific Northwest Elvis competition in 2007 and has been performing full time for more than 18 years
His talent has taken him throughout BC, the United States, and Mexico.
Elliott also portrays other icons such as Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, and even Louis Armstrong
The upcoming Mother’s Day show is set in an intimate way with lounge style seating so he can cruise the room and be more personal with the audience
The show takes place in the newly renovated ballroom on the main floor of Treasure Cove. Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased at Casino Guest Services 250-561-2421.
Doors open at 6, show begins
TERRILL BODNER PHOTO
A Million Stars Above is one of three photos chosen for a national exhibit
Spring means yard cleanup time
TED “THE GRATEFUL GARDENER” CLARKE
My wife Joyce and I operate a bed and breakfast called The Grateful Bed. She has more than enough to do making beds and keeping our guests well fed and I’m more than happy to get my hands dirty in the yard and garden. Warm weather is finally here and the time is right to get out into your yard to clean up all that dead vegetation. If
you haven’t already done so, start with cutting the dead off your perennials to encourage new growth. A good rule of thumb is to cut at the point where the dead branch is starting to show signs of greening up, but you might want to wait a few weeks for shrubs that have yet to bud after an especially long winter
When it comes to cleaning up a garden bed, driveway or deck, I can’t say enough about leaf blowers. They are an
indispensable tool no homeowner should be without
For the lawn, you have a few dethatching choices You could just use a fan rake to get up the leaves and pick up some of the dead grass, but if you really want to do the job right you need something that digs in to loosen the thatch that can create a barrier that compacts the soil and makes it more difficult to get oxygen and light to the grass roots.
Grass is the easiest ground cover to maintain. It just needs water, sunlight, a bit of fertilizer and maybe an annual aeration If you do aerate, pick a day when the ground is moist to effectively pull out those plugs Right after you aerate or rake is the best time to throw down some grass seed, which will drop into the holes If you do reseed, it’s always a good idea to cover the lawn with a thin layer of topsoil Fertilizers high in nitrogen are best for encouraging lawn growth in the spring
On the bag of fertilizer you’ll see three numbers separated by a dash The first number indicates the concentration of nitrogen, the second indicates phosphate and third is potash. Slower-release fertilizers are needed later in the growing season. Don’t overfertilize, especially in areas where the grass is struggling to grow. You’ll just kill it faster. Shaded areas require less fertilizer than sunnier spots, so if you can, adjust the spreader so it puts out less in the shaded parts
Morning is the best time to water a lawn because that allows time for the blades to dry out and lessens the likelihood of mold or fungus Avoid watering grass during the heat of the day when a lot of the water will evaporate before it sinks into the ground Water enough so it penetrates to encourage deep root growth rather than a sporadic surface spraying that will trick the grass into putting out shallow roots. Ted Clarke is a Citizen reporter
Healthy North y
Health Care Assistant Program (HCAP) accepting applicants
Northern Health is accepting another year’s worth of Health Care Assistant Program (HCAP) applicants! What’s a Health Care Assistant and what’s the program all about you ask?
Health care assistants are valuable members of the health care team. They provide for the physical, mental, and social well-being of clients of each day Health Care Assistants provide personal care in a variety of health care settings including hospitals, assisted living and long-term care facilities, group homes, and community care programs. The Health Career Access Program (HCAP) gives you the opportunity to receive paid education and on-the-job training to become a registered Health Care Assistant. Your course fees will be covered, and you’ll also be paid for your time while you study and work. The program consists of employment, education, and training, and may take up to 18 months to finish.
If you’re wondering what this program is really like from someone who’s tried it out, listen to what Tim Hermiston, HCAP graduate and now Northern Health employee, has to say! We met up with Tim, and he gave us the low-down on his experience.
How was your experience with the HCAP program?
It was a great experience. I’m thankful to Northern Health for the opportunity My family and I have been living in Canada for about five years and as you can see I’m not a young fella, but this program made it possible to be able to do something I really enjoy, and that’s working with people!
I’m originally from Australia. My exposure to health care and health care professionals took place when my wife and I worked beside physical therapists and occupational therapists treating refugees in developing and poor communities in Jordan.
I would say my life experience thus far has prepared me for working with the diversity of people that we come across every day Working in the Middle East, every refugee has their own story Well, the people here in Prince George, they all have stories too!
What impressed me about the Northern Health / College of New Caledonia curriculum of the HCAP program was learning the concept of ‘Person-centered Care’. Essentially, the person in front of you has a unique history and needs. I think the big thing is recognizing these needs. HCAP looks at not just our physical needs, but the mental and emotional needs as well.
The program is all about person-centered care. You know, the person in front of you- what is their immediate need and how we can best assist them and help them enjoy life?
How old were you when you took the HCAP program?
I just took it last year - close to 50 years old when I started. I still have one daughter at home, so the earn while you learn part of the HCAP program made it more possible for me.
It was awesome to see the diversity of students that were in my course. Some young folks just out of high school and some other people like me, with families bringing in a bit more life experience. I think it’s really great that the program makes it possible for a whole diverse spectrum of people to enroll.
Tell us about your award!
As it turns out I received the Dean’s Leadership Award! The award reads “For outstanding display of leadership during their time in the Health Care Assistant Program, December 2022”. It was nice to be recognized, but I think the reality is out of those thirty other peers, there’s so many people who are just very qualified, clever, and very caring It could have easily been someone else!
A big thanks to Tim for doing this interview and congratulations on his very well-deserved recognition!
Get paid to train as a Health Care Assistant! To learn more about the HCAP Program and opportunities to advance your career with paid education, visit: https://www.northernhealth.ca/for-health-professionals/ student-practice-education#health-career-access-program#health-career-access-program-hcap
Take the BC SPEAK Survey today!
Public Heath has launched the third round of the SPEAK Survey, and now is the time to have your voice heard Northern BC.
Funded by the BCCDC Foundation for Public Health, the Survey on Population Experiences, Action, and Knowledge (SPEAK) is a B.C.-wide survey to help us better understand the social, economic, physical, mental health and well-being needs of our communities. This is the third year that the survey will be running, and the data collected offers valuable insights into the experiences of residents 18 and older
SPEAK Survey informs health care decisions
In 2020, almost 400,000 British Columbians participated in the first SPEAK Survey, and in 2021 almost 200,000 participated It’s important that we hear from residents across the North, but particularly from those who live in rural and remote communities, older adults, and people with children and young adults in their lives. Learning about the priorities of Northern BC residents will help inform health and community-level decision making. The results from the previous surveys have helped guide vaccine planning for COVID-19, community pandemic restart planning, and discussions around mental health supports across the province.
Complete the survey and win!
The survey will be open for approximately 2 months, but we encourage everyone to participate to ensure our Northern priorities are captured. Northern BC residents who take the survey will be entered to win a prize. You can win one of three iPads or one of 150 grocery gift cards. Once you have participated, please share the survey with friends, loved ones, and neighbours to help us spread the word and ensure diverse experiences are captured.
For more information about BC SPEAK visit: bccdc.ca/SpeakSurvey
ARIES
Despite mounting fatigue and poor health, you won’t let yourself be bogged down. You’ll do what it takes to feel energized and pull yourself out of the funk that’s been slowing you down
TAURUS
A friend may betray your trust You’ll get rid of freeloading and energysucking friends. This will allow you to spend more time with the people you love.
GEMINI
You’ll plan a critical project. You’ll also demonstrate your talents and skills in front of many people, putting you in an excellent position to get promoted
HOROSCOPES ZLES
CANCER
You’ll be overwhelmed with a desire to travel. You’ll quickly contact a travel agency to ensure you have the perfect summer holiday You may also sign up for a training course.
LEO
All your attention will be focused on specific emotions. You feel a great need for change. New clothes or a new hairstyle could be just what the doctor ordered.
VIRGO
Your happiness will fluctuate. Make a point of getting together with the people you love to raise your spirits. You’ll have fun at work this week.
LIBRA
You’ll have a lot to do when you go back to work. You’ll take an organized and methodical approach to check off several tasks weighing you down. Don’t procrastinate.
SCORPIO
You’ll do something outside your comfort zone. You could also accomplish a brilliant feat and outdo yourself in the process. You’ll undoubtedly feel proud of yourself.
SAGITTARIUS
You don’t have to look far to find happiness: home and family matter most. Don’t hesitate to gather your loved ones around the table, if only to celebrate the arrival of good weather.
CAPRICORN
You can’t keep living like this; change is needed. You may find the financial means to embark on a new adventure, such as buying a house or starting a business.
AQUARIUS
Getting a bit of exercise will ease your worries. If you’re in a new relationship, you’ll feel a strong need for affection and commitment However, you may feel worried about losing your freedom.
PISCES
You must act now to be successful. You know how to make your dreams come true. If you’re moving this summer, you might want to start packing a few boxes, so you don’t stress out at the last minute.
Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard but always near Still loved, still missed Throughout the years. Lovingly remembered by Auntie Betty & Family
CelebrationofLifefor MurrayDouglasSwanson
Friends and family of Murray are invited to his home on Saturday, May 13th from 1-3pm This is an outdoor celebration, please dress for the weather.
It is with great sadness that the family of Johnny Sung Chung Wong announce his passing on April 28, 2023, at the age of 86. Johnny was averywell-knownandlong-timeresidentofPrinceGeorge
Johnny is survived by his loving wife, Kay, of 67 years, and their children, David (Pauline), Carolyn (John), Edward, Raymond (Yin), Betty (Gary), Barry (Min Ting) and Kevin (Livia); and their grandchildren, Christopher, Melissa (Michael), Leanna, Amanda, Ryan (Sonia), Kayla, Crystal, Jordan, Curtis, Russell and Leo, all of whom he loved dearly and was very proud of and had instilled good morals and ethics upon. He is also survived by three loving sisters and their families: 2 older sisters, Wai Lin and So Kuen, in Sugar Land, Texas, and 1 younger sister, Choi Kuen, in Santa Clara, California HeispredeceasedbyBabyBoyWong.
Johnny was born on February 25, 1937 in Hoiping, Kwangtung, China He came to Prince George in 1954 and worked as a cook in major hotels and restaurants, including “The Red Bird Café”, where he met his wife, Kay, and were married in 1956. (They were, in fact, the first Chinese couple to marry in Prince George). Names of the other places that Johnny worked at in his early years include: The Embassy, Prince George Hotel, Shasta Cafe,PurpleLantern,SimonFraserInnandtheInnoftheNorth.
However, the most memorable restaurant that Johnny worked at for many years before becoming the proud owner of this busy restaurant was, “The Connaught Inn Restaurant”, where large and generous portions were known to be served. Johnny was famous for making the best Prime Rib and Roast Beef dinners in town, and his gravy was amazing! He was always very hard working and was passionate and proud of his cooking. He loved tocookforfamilyeventsandcelebrations
Johnny was a very friendly person and loved people He would always lend a helping hand or offer support in any way He made lots of friends during his lifetime He enjoyed having coffee with friends at the Pine Center Mall, Tim Horton’s, or Treasure Cove Casino. He also enjoyed playing mahjong with friends He loved to talk andsharehislifeexperiencestorieswithfamilyandfriends,andshowingoffhispictures.
Johnny was well-respected and prominent in the Chinese community, as everyone either knew him, or heard of him He was just that popular! During his lifetime here in Prince George, he has helped many Chinese newcomers settle in the City, and has even helped them gain meaningful employment He and his wife, Kay, have welcomed many newcomers into their home for coffee, lunch, or dinner, resulting in many lifelong close friends
Promoting and preserving the Chinese culture was very important to Johnny, and he was involved with several Chinese organizations and societies: He was a member of the PG Chinese Heritage Preservation Society and wasinvolvedinthegroundbreakingceremonyforthelargeChineseMonumentattheMemorialParkCemetery He also served as Chairman and Treasurer of the Dart Coon Club, and Vice President of the Multicultural HeritageSocietyofPrinceGeorge,inthepast
As well, he served as past President, Vice President and Treasurer of the Chinese Benevolent Association, and as Vice President and Treasurer of the Prince George Branch of the Chinese Freemasons Society Just recently in March 2023, he received special recognition at the Chinese Freemasons Society’s 160th Anniversary celebrations held in Vancouver, for long term contribution to Chinese Freemasons Society of Canada, an achievement he was really proud of and honoured to have received just prior to his passing. This ceremony was attended by over 500 members from 19 branches across the country The award was presented to him on stage by the Chinese Freemasons Society of Canada’s President, together with our City Mayor Simon Yu. Such a heartwarming moment for him! This made him very happy, as he has always been proud to be part of the ChineseFreemasonsSocietyforover60years
In preserving the Chinese culture, which Johnny was very passionate about, he was also involved in training and educating the younger generation of the traditional lion dance for performances at special events, such as: Chinese New Year celebrations and the grand openings of new Chinese restaurants. He participated in many of theseeventsduringhislifetime,andhelikedtoplaythedrumsand/orthecymbals
Johnny was also the legendary icon seen at the Chinese food booths at the PG Exhibition grounds, and at the Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, during PGX and Canada Day celebrations He looked forward to arranging and organizing the booths, and being on site every summer to help serve the food. He enjoyed seeing the repeat customers, and chatting with them Johnny was instrumental in the start-up of these food booths for the Chinese Benevolent Association and Chinese Freemasons Society This is a legacy that he has left behind for the Chinesecommunity
Johnny, a very proud man, will be dearly missed, not only by his own family and relatives, but by many, many friends and acquaintances that he has made during his lifetime in Prince George, close to 70 years All that knew him will remember him as, “Johnny Wong!”- A happy, kind-hearted person with a big smile and boundlessgenerosity
AsperJohnny’srequest,therewillbenofuneralservice
The family would like to thank Dr Tower and Dr Wankling and their staff, and all the nurses and other healthcare professionals, for their exceptional care of Johnny. As Johnny had remarked to them (with a thumbsup),“GoodService! Thankyou!Thankyou!”
Johnny will always be loved, never forgotten and forever missed by all who knew him!
REMEMBRANCES
REGAN,DenisePatricia
September30,1963-April28,2023
Per her wishes, Denise Patricia Regan, age 59, of Prince George, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Friday April 28, 2023inPrinceGeorge
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00am Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church with Father Pat Monette officiating-areceptionwillfollow
There will be a Celebration of Life in Prince Georgeatalaterdate
Denise was born in Ottawa, Ontario to June and Ted Wilson on September 30, 1963. She grew up in Kelowna, BC in Ellison and graduated from Rutland Senior Secondary in 1981. She married the boy next door, Dominic Regan, on June 27, 1981. She was a stay-at-home mom to three beautiful children--also working on her Family’s farm She further went onto be a concrete worker, ski instructor, working in restoration and working in a forestry nursery. She then chose to go back to school and graduated with honors from the LPN nursing program at College of New Caledonia in 2003. Denise had a rewarding career nursing at Simon Fraser Lodge in Prince George--retiring in 2016. She had a love of dogs, gardening camping fishingandquadingwithfamilyandfriends
Denise is preceded in death by her son Tyrell; mother June; father-in-law John; her brother-inlawDwight
She is survived by her loving and caring husband Dominic of 42 years; daughter Sheena (Corey); son Kyle; father Ted; mother-in-law Audrey; sister Deb (Shawntell, Ryan, Alexis and Nathon); brother Duncan (Leah, Conor, Joelle Mathew and CJ) and many other members of the extended family
The family of Denise wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the doctors and nurses that cared for her at Vancouver General Hospital and UHNBC in PrinceGeorge.
A special thank you goes out to all the staff at the Prince George Hospice and Palliative Care Society and Home Hospice for the compassionate caretheyprovidedtoDeniseandherfamily
In lieu of flower, if desired, donations may be made by e-transfer or mail to team Pittie Party Association (a dog rescue association) to admin@teampittie.com or 3037 Christopher Crescent,PrinceGeorge,BCV2N4S9.
Vaughn Ivan Steeves passed away peacefully in hospital on April 26, 2023 at the age of 75 years He will be remembered by granddaughter Katie Flagg and his sister Lila Steeves of Nova Scotia, as well other family and friends No service by his request.
AdelineJudith (Judy)Feyer
1941-2023
Born August 24, 1941 in Wadena, SK. Passed away suddenly on April 27th, 2023 Predeceased by her spouse Stuart Feyer, father Erick Byman, mother Myrtle (John) Handford and sister Christina Cahoon. Judy will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by sons Vern and Reg, daughters Temina (Lloyd) and Terriesa (Reg), her grandchildren Lisa (Ryan), Amanda (John), Lyle (Bobbi-Jo), Theodor (Hayley), Jesse (Shyla), Billy, Brandyn (Ashley) and Travis, great grandchildren Kaelan, Jadyn, Mattias, Alexandria, Jaxon, Abrielle, Laurel, Teagan, Ryder, Taylor and Emmett, sister Edna (Roland), brothers Evert (Maureen), Randy (Laura) and Ron (Debbie), brother-in-law Brian as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family A celebration of life will be held Saturday May 27, 2023, 1:00pm atPineviewHall,6470BendixonRoad.
IrisCarlene Owen (LaForge)
1941-2023
Following a threeyear struggle with cancer, it is with deepest sadness and sorrow we announce that our beloved
Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sibling, and friend, Iris Carlene Owen (LaForge) bravely departed this life on April 26th, 2023, with her childrenatherside
Iris was born on April 22, 1941, in St Williams Ontario, was married in early December of 1957, moved to BC in 1975 and later to Prince George in the early 1980’s. Iris is survived by her son Jerry, daughters Diane (Craig), Chris (Tim), Lori and Daphne (Lawrence) and predeceased by her daughter Lynne (Robert) Iris also leaves a total of three grandsons, seven granddaughters, three great-grandsonsandonegreat-granddaughter
We all knew Iris for her strength and determination, her kind and thoughtful heart, and her ability to see the good in all people. She will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by her entirefamilyandherdearestfriends
Warmest thank you’ s and appreciation to Assmans’s Funeral Home for all their assistance and to the Prince George Hospice House that showed our mother such kindness and hospitality during her past two weeks of life. Iris was able to celebrate her 82nd birthday there with her entire family Smiles and love were strongly present on thatday
There will be a celebration of life, at a later date to be determined. Close friends will be contacted when we have chosen the time and place Our family appreciate all support and condolences and ask that in lieu of any flowers, please donate to thePrinceGeorgeHospiceHouse
LisaSchlueter
1937-2023
We sadly announce the passing of Lisa Schlueter on April 14th, 2023 at the age of 86 years She was loved and will be missed by her son, Edgar Schlueter, and daughter, Erica Schlueter. She will also be remembered and missed by extended family and friends in Germany, as well as friends in Canada Lisa was predeceased by her husband, Ernst Schlueter, in 2001. A celebration of life will be held at the family home at a future date As mom was a nature lover and appreciated the wildlife which frequented her home, it is asked that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Northern Lights Wildlife Society in Smithers
AndreaAgatha Eberle (néeKaschube)
November23,1963
PrinceGeorge,BCApril30,2023
Kelowna,BC
It is with immense sadness that daughters Danielle and Marissa Eberle share the news of Andrea’s passing. The three ‘Eb Girls’ said their goodbyes on April 30 with grand-pups, Fish and Gator, closeby.
Andrea is also survived by sister Vera (Phil) Roy, extended family and dear friends She is predeceased by parents Agathe and Friedrich (Fritz) Kaschube, brother Edgar, nephew Jordan RoyanddogsWilsonandParker
Andrea will be remembered for her warmth and natural ability to make everyone around her feel special Her overwhelming compassion for others brought her to a career as a registered nurse, a role in which she will be remembered as incredibly intelligent and unwaveringly kind. As a mom, she was extraordinary; deeply loving, reliable and fiercely protective. Throughout her life, Andrea exemplified resilience and strength with grace Her infectious laugh and comforting hugs will be missedforever
We liebe du, hunnis.
A very special thank you to Dr MacNeill, Dr Hamilton, as well as Kelowna’s Palliative Care and Hospice House teams. Andrea asked that in lieu of a service and flowers, donations be made totheSPCA
BrianEmmet Johnson
October9,1944April24,2023.
It is with heavy hearts we announce that on April 24th 2023, Brian Emmet Johnson our b eloved husband, father, grandfather great grandfather and friend passed away peacefully in hissleepatParksideCareHome
He was born in Prince Rupert, B.C On October 9th, 1944, to Joan and Emmet Johnson. He was the oldest of 7 children. He was predeceased by his son Sean Wellwood Johnson, brothers Gary andRandyJohnsonandnephewLyleRichardson.
He is survived by his loving wife Joy of 56 years, daughter Brenda McCoy (Shannon), granddaughters Mekenna (Trey) and Alli (Seth), daughter-in-law Michele and grandchildren Brittany (Kory) and Liam (Meghan) Siblings Greg, Robert, Lauraine and Barbara, brother-inlaw Larry (Solvei), nephew Wayne (Tina) and manyniecesandnephews
Brian was a kind, loving, strong man who enjoyed life to the fullest He loved watching and feeding the birds, camping and fishing, at the cabin at Fraser Lake with his children and grandchildren. He was also blessed with a beautiful great grandchild, Brody, (mother Brittany) whom he wouldhavelovedtohavehadmoretimewith.
In his final years, Brian was dealing with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s The family would like to thank Dr Hillhouse and Parkside Care Home for their loving, kind and compassionate caretheygaveBrianduringhistimethere
Brian will be deeply missed and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him
Family and friends will always remember his favourite sayings “I’m just puttin along” and “Just have fun”.
Gerald(Jerry)Lawrence
January20,1949–April30,2023
With extreme sadness in our hearts, we would like to announce the passing of our loving Husband, Dad,Grandpa,andPapa
He is survived and sadly missed by the love of his life; Pat, of 53 years, children; Cindy (Glenn) and Doug (Penni), grandchildren; Kimberley, Aimee (Dorian), Sterling, and Kale, greatgranddaughters; Scotland and Killian, brothers; Vern (Connie), John (Ann), Rick (Jodie), and sister-in-law, Sheilia, mother-in-law; Dawn, sisters-in-law; Kathy (Lawrence), brothers-inlaw’s; Bill (Liza) and Steve (Brenda) and many wonderful nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Predeceased by his parents; James and Maxine, brothers; David, Jimmy, Bill, and Wayne, sisterin-law;Sharonandfather-in-law;BillJackson.
Jerry was born in Edmonton, AB, but grew up in South Fort George, BC. He worked in many facets of the auto body industry from teaching, running and owning shops, to working within the insurance industry In 2006 he and Pat moved back to Penticton, where he and his son Doug opened Penticton Collision Centre Jerry officially retired in 2021 so he and Pat could continue splittingtheirtimebetweenPentictonandYuma
Jerry enjoyed camping, fishing, playing his guitars and stock-car racing, but most of all he lovedspendingtimewithhisfamily
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at the Chapel of Everden Rust Funeral Services, 1130 Carmi Ave, Penticton.
Joan Slater, 75 of Prince George, BC, passed away on April 16, 2023, after a 4-year long battle with cancer
Joan was born on December 26, 1947, to Joseph Whitford (father) and Marion Bouvette (mother) in Prince George,BC
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work she started her career at The Ministry of Children and Families as a social worker, kickstartinga25-yearcareerinthisfield.
Joan loved to spend her free time with family, friends, and beloved pets Traveling to Thailand to see friends, sites and visit her adored elephants Shealsoenjoyedcooking,crafting,andsewing.
Joan was predeceased by Dennis Hammell (brother) and Jacqueline Loxton (sister) She is survived by Brice Elliott (son) and fiancée Amee Parisian, Vivian Hammell (sister), Joe Hammell (brother), Lida Loxton (niece), Rhianna Osmond (niece) and husband Carlo Osmond, Ian Maclellan (grandson), Evan Maclellan (grandson), plus KarenandAlBeeson(life-longfriends)
With respect to Joan’s wishes, there will be no formalfuneralorcelebrationoflife
Obituaries
This might be all that you get. Yeah, I guess this might well be it. But heaven knows I’ve tried.
Edward“Ed”JohnGoodkey
With great sorrow, the family of Edward “Ed” John Goodkey announces his passing at age 80 on May2nd,2023,inPrinceGeorge,B.C.
Ed was born on October 20th, 1942, in Vernon, B.C., though moved to Prince George as an infant andwasalifelongPrinceGeorgeresident
His love of sports as a competitor began with basketball and curling in his youth, golf in middle-age and bowling in recent years. He coached girls’ softball and arm-chair coached all kinds of team sports on TV He also was very dedicated to his life’s work at Northern Thunderbird Air, where he was a fixture through many phases of the company’s growth and development
He leaves behind Son, Kennedy (Jodie); Daughter, Tara; Step-children, Sandra (Jim) and Stuart (Sue); Daughter-in-law, Judy; Grandchildren, Michael, Theo (Carissa), Matt, Kaitlin (Steven), Daniel (Marissa), Halley (Jason), Gabe (Taylor), Lauren, Kassandra (Mitchell) and December; Great-grandchildren, Nathaniel, GwenethandCecelia.
Ed was predeceased by his Father, Hilliard Goodkey; Mother, Jessie Goodkey (nee Blackburn); Sister, Arlene Goodkey; Brother, Roy Goodkey; Sister-in-law, Sandra Goodkey; Stepson, Tom Mason and Ed’s beloved Wife, Kay Goodkey(neeWhitehead,Mason)
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club, from 4pm to 8pm on Thursday, May 18th, where he served as Club President in the 80s; was a force to be reckoned with on the ice; spent countless hours competing onthegreenandsocializinginthelounge
In Lieu of flowers, please donate to The Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society, whom the family would like to thank for their kindness andcareduringthisdifficulttime
REMEMBRANCES
Obituaries
JanaMiddleton
October25,1988-April21,2023
Jana was born and raised in Prince George She graduated from D.P. Todd then went on to CNC to receive her diploma in Social Work.
She struggled with mental illness and eventually succumbed to the opiate epidemic She leaves behind her sons Trevail and Teagan and many friends and relatives.
Love you always Mom
Thinking of Good memories
Trevail and Teagan
As you share the stories and the memories of how they lived their lives and how very much they meant, may you find comfort...
WozneyNellie(Anela)
On the morning of August 9, 2022, this sweet Angel lost her short but courageous battle with cancer at the age of 94 years Our dear Mom left this earth peacefully in her sleep to become our Guardian AngelinHeaven.
Predeceased by Fur Baby Sami, Daughter Linda, Great Granddaughter,KenzieandHusbandJohn.
Left to mourn her beautiful soul are Daughters Judi, Carol (Roy), Cindy (Tod) and Son Terry. As well as Grandchildren and Great GrandchildrenandherpreciousGrandPuppies
Her unconditional Love for her Children was far and above her own self She touched many hearts and kept many in her own heart and thatwasabigplacetobe
Go rest high on that mountain, Mom. Your work on Earth is done. Until we meet again one day... Love Your Family
GordonBiddle
Alife well lived
Gordon, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2023 in Prince George BC at the age of 89 years old. Born in Saskatchewan, Gordon left his family farm at the age of 19 searching for work, and soon after arriving in BC, Gordon met his future wife Rose, andtheyhadfourdaughters.
With his determination and willingness to work hard and provide for his family, Gordon built several successful businesses throughout the province of BC, the Yukon Territories, as well as in the USA and other foreign countries Gordon enjoyed reading, fishing, hunting, golfing, curling and traveling. He was also a long-time member of the PG Golf and Curling Club, the Legion and the Elks Club. Gordon made friends easily, always showing a genuine interest with every person he met He was always keen to help family and friends andagreatstoryteller
His knowledge that he shared on almost any topic from land development, construction to all things outdoors and, most importantly about life, was amazing and astounding. To his grandchildren and great grandchildren, he was known as papa and always eager to share his wisdom and support--he was the family googlesearch.Nowordscanexpresshowmuchhewillbemissed.
Gordon is survived by his beloved wife Rose of 68 years; daughters Charlene, Debora, Roxane, and Kim; sevengrandchildrenandelevengreatgrandchildren.
Therewillbenoservicebyrequest
Each Loss
Each loss is very different,
The pain is so severe. Will I ever stop missing
This one I loved so dear?
Good times we had together,
The moments that we shared
We didn’t have to tell each other
How much we really cared
I never dreamed you’d go away,
Never thought of sorrow
So sure you’d always be here
Took for granted each tomorrow
Now my life is all confused
Since you went away
You took a part of me
And for help I daily pray.
But when God sent you to me
He never said that you were mine,
That I could keep you always –
Only borrowed for a time.
Now He’s called you home, I’m sad and I shed tears
Yet I’m glad He loaned you to me
And we had these many years.
ROUNDS, ALL SILVER COINS, PRE 1968 COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, FRANKLIN MINT SETS, OLD STERLING SILVER, COIN COLLECTIONS +++ ALSO BUYING GOLD!!! TODD 25O 864 3521
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HIRINGNOW!
Oilfield Construction
For Long-Term Projects in North Eastern BC (Ft. St.John / Dawson Creek Area)!
• Foremen
• Rig Welders (B-Pressure & CWB)
• Crane Operators (Journeymen / Apprentices)
• General Foreman
• Superintendents
• By Hand CWB Structural
• Welders, mobile rig provided
• Apprentice and Journeyperson Pipefitters
• Administrators
• Project Controls
• Field Safety Coordinators
• Field Safety Advisor
• Quality Control Personnel (CWB Level 1 & 2)
• Quality Control / Turnover Coordinator
What We Offer: Competitive Compensation, Camp Accommodations (travel pay on shift turnarounds), or daily travel pay to and from site for local applicants
Projects Include: Greenfield & Brownfield Construction
Forestry Operations
Supervisor
– Fort St. James BC
Hampton Lumber Mills Canada has a full-time position available for an innovative and motivated individual at their Fort St. James operation. As a member of the Woodlands team, based out of Fort St. James, you will be responsible for ongoing supervision, co-ordination of logging and road construction operations and other forestry related activities to ensure the safe and timely delivery of logs to our Fort St James sawmill
Fort St James is one of the oldest settlements in BC and is rich with history, including First Nation, aviation & fur trade There is something there to keep everyone happy Lakes, mountains, golf course, arena, bike park, community arts council and so much more! They offer the ideal life-work balance and you are only 40 minutes from Vanderhoof and less than 2 hours from Prince George.
Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
• Supervision of logging, road construction and maintenance contractors
• Implementation of Hampton’s safety, environmental and forest certification plans
• Building/maintaining relationships with First Nation, Government and community groups
• Scheduling and budgeting for monthly and annual work
• Rate negotiations for logging and road maintenance contracts
• Co-ordination of forestry and silviculture activities
An ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:
• Registration (or eligible for registration) as a Forest Professional with the ABCFP
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Able to work independently and in a team environment, both in the office and in the field
• Proven analytical, organization and project management skills
• Sound understanding of what is required for safe, productive and environmentally effective forestry operations
Hampton Lumber Mills Canada offers a competitive salary with an industry leading extended health and benefits plan
Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.
We thank everyone for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted
Please forward your resume to:
Anne Currie, Human Resources Assistant Fort St. James Forest Products 503-291-5591 (Confidential Fax) #HRCanada@hamptonlumber.com
How to update wood panels
Does your home have wood panelling that needs to be updated?Ifso,herearesomegreatwaystomodernizeit
• Paintit.Thisisthequickestandeasiestwaytoupdateyour woodpanelling.Whiteorbrightcolourswilllookfreshand clean, while darker ones will feel moody and sombre Or, considerwhitewashingthewoodusingwatered-downpaint Thiswilllightenthepanelswhilepreservingthegrain.
• Camouflageit.Usedrywallcompoundtofillinthegrooves between panels Follow this with a coat of primer and your choiceofpaint.Noonewillbeabletotellthatthewallsare panelled
• Refinish it. Solid wood panels can be sanded and stained like any other wood surface Choose a lighter tone for a Scandinavianfeeloroptforastainthatmimicsmahogany for a more luxurious look
Ifyoulovewoodpanellingandwantitinyourhome,besure to choose wide panels over thin ones and stay away from orangeytones,asthesetendtolookdated
Also, consider mounting your panels horizontally or diagonallyinsteadofverticallyforamoremoderndesign
ESTIMATES
3 reasons to wallpaper your home
Once considered outdated, wallpaper has made a comeback in recent years. Here are three reasons to choose wallpaper instead of paintforyourhome
1.Itmakesanimpact.Withawiderangeof colours, patterns and textures to choose from, wallpaper makes it easy to make a statement And there’s an option to suit every style, from bold, geometric patterns topastelfloralprintsandmore
2.It’s long-lasting. Wallpaper that’s been properlyhungcanlast15yearsormore In
4 elements of the
Are you thinking about creating a playroom for your kids? If so, here are four things that will make it child friendly and the perfect place toplay
1.Different zones. Create separate areas in the room to make crafts, read books and do homework. Make sure they also have an open area for imaginativeplay.
addition, it holds up better in high-traffic areas of your home than paint, which should be reapplied at least every five years
3.It’s easy to remove. Modern, non-woven wallpapersaredesignedtoeasilypeelaway fromthewallinonebigsheet.Unlikeolder types, there’s little risk of damaging the wallunderneath
If you love the look but aren’t ready to commit, many companies make temporary wallpaperthat’seasytoputupandtakedown
perfect playroom
2.Ample storage. Storage solutions likeshelvingunits and bookcases can help keep stuff off the floor Smaller boxes and baskets are perfect for keeping toys organized.
3.The ideal location. If your children are still young, you may want their playroom to be close to where the family gathers so you can keep an eye on them. However, olderkidsmaypreferaspaceoftheirown inthebasementorelsewhere
4 Child-friendlytextiles Yourchildrenneed
comfortable surfaces like sofas, chairs and rugs to relax and play, but these will get dirty quickly Washable fabrics make cleaning up easy. You may also want to choose patterned materials, which are better at hiding stains
To ensure your children don’t grow out of their playroom too soon, avoid decorating it with their favourite cartoon characters or colours that may seem too childish in the years to come Opt for timeless decor and furniturethatcangrowwiththem
What you plan to put on your built-in shelving unit will impact its design. For example,ifyou’redisplayingacollection, you may choose to build specialized shelves
If you’re planning to store things you want to keep hidden, you can add some doorstoconcealthebottomshelves
THE LOCATION
There are likely a number of places in yourhomethatcouldaccommodatebuilt-in shelving.Yourlivingroommaybeagreat spot for a custom bookcase, your kitchen mayneedtheextrastoragespaceandyour fireplace might look better when flanked withshelving.
THE SHELVES
Most books will fit on a standard eight-inch shelf, but you may require more space. If this is the case, make the bottom few shelves deeper than the top ones
Finally, keep your home’s esthetic in mind when designing yourshelvingunit Ifthe room has mouldings or other decorative accents, mimicking them in your design will help tie the room together.
Regularly cleaning your air ducts can improve indoor air quality, reduce the amountofallergensintheairandloweryour heatingandcoolingbills.
In general, homeowners should have their air ducts cleaned every three to five years However,itmayneedtobedonemoreoften if people smoke in the home, you have pets that shed or someone in your family suffers fromallergiesorarespiratoryillness
It’s also important to have your air ducts cleaned after any homerenovation
Dustanddebrisfromtheproject can clog your ventilation system and render it inefficient You should also clean them if water has infiltrated your ducts, as inhaling mould spores can
How often should my air ducts be cleaned?
seriouslyimpactyourhealth.
In addition, many new homeowners choose to have their ventilation system inspected and cleaned prior to moving into a new home
Air duct cleaning isn’t something that the average homeowner can do on their own.A proper cleaning requires specialized vacuums with filters that can trap even the smallest particles of dust and dirt For this reason,it’sbesttohireapro.
