For the next six months, 13 people from law enforcement, emergency services and related fields across the region will be working to meet a pair of epic goals. They’ve committed to this year’s Cops for Cancer Tour de North. The annual campaign is held to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society and culminates in September with a seven day, 800-kilometre
ride from Prince Rupert to Prince George By then, they also hope to have raised $200,000. The money raised will go to research in pediatric cancer and help send as many as 600 kids to Camp Goodtimes To donate, go to tourdenorth.ca.
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A major break has been made in the mysterious disappearance of a young Vanderhoof woman in 2011.
RCMP said in a statement issued Monday that remains identified as those of Madison (Maddy) Scott have been been found on a rural property on the east side of Vanderhoof, 100 kilometres west of Prince George.
Scott has been the subject of a high-profile missing person campaign ever since she went missing on May 28, 2011, while at Hogsback Lake, a camping spot 25-kilometres southeast of Vanderhoof, where she had been celebrating a friend’s birthday
“Police are currently executing a search warrant at a rural property on the east side of Vanderhoof The area has been secured and additional resources are anticipated to be on scene for as long as may be required,” RCMP said. “Foul play has not been ruled out.”
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Members of the Cops for Cancer Tour de North gather at the North District RCMP detachment in Prince George
School
NIELSEN Citizen staff
NOTICE OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION
What: Public consultation meeting regarding Temporary Use Permit No. 280
When and Where:
7:00 pm, Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Via telephone conference call or In-person attendance at: Regional District Board Room 155 George Street, Prince George BC
Owner: Damian Hamblin
Proposal: The purpose of Temporary Use Permit No. 280 is to permit Building Trades Contractor use on Lot 1 District Lot 2174 Cariboo District Plan 19569 Except Plan 21456 for a three (3) year period. The property is located at 835 Geddes Rd.
How can I participate and provide comment?
Anyone who believes that their interest in land is affected by the proposed permit shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard at the public consultation meeting or to present written submissions prior to or at the public consultation meeting regarding matters contained in the Permit The public consultation meeting will be chaired by a delegate of the Regional District Board.
Written submissions will only be accepted in advance of the public consultation meeting until 12:00 pm on June 6, 2023, and must be sent by: Email: developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca
Hand/Mail: Attention Development Services,155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Fax: 250-562-8676
Written submissions received before 12:00 pm on June 6, 2023, will be posted to the Regional District’s website. No written submissions will be accepted after 12:00 pm unless they are submitted in-person at the public consultation meeting. All written submissions must include the legible legal name of the author
Any written submissions received before or at the public consultation meeting will become public record, be posted on the RDFFG website, and form part of the public Board agenda. By submitting a comment, you are consenting to the disclosure of any personal information that you provide. Personal information is collected and disclosed under the authority of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
Attending by telephone conference call: Contact the Regional District at 250-960-4400 or developmentservices@rdffg.bc.ca for the telephone conference number and instructions.
Need more info? Copies of relevant background materials and the Permit are available for review by the public on the Regional District’s website at http://www.rdffg.bc.ca/services/development/land-useplanning/current-applications/ or at the Regional District office, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., between May 23, 2023, and June 15, 2023. Appointments are preferred. For more information contact Daniel Burke, Planner III, 250-960-4400.
Decision by the Regional District Board: Following the public consultation, the Regional District Board will consider issuance of Temporary Use Permit No. 280 on Thursday, June 15, 2023, during the Regional District Board meeting which starts at 1:30 p.m. in the Regional District Board Room located at 155 George Street, Prince George, BC
Salted Cracker closes
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
Acting on a court-ordered writ of seizure and sale, a bailiff has locked the doors on a chain of Prince George lunch spots.
Notices on the doors of the four Salted Crackers in the city were posted saying all supplies, stock, furnishings and appliances have been seized
The outcome stems from a court action that began slightly more than a year ago when Gordon Food Service Canada Ltd. filed a notice of claim in B C Supreme Court in Vancouver stating the supplier is owed $69,431 43 plus interest spread over 71 unpaid invoices dating back as far as December 2019
According to the claim a numbered company, of which Michael Kenneth Pockett is listed as the sole proprietor, entered into an agreement in which GFS was to be paid no later than 14 days after the date of each invoice for supplies sold to Salted Cracker Overdue accounts are subject to 18 per cent annual interest.
By Feb 23, 2023, GFS had secured an order from the court stating Pockett owed $104,912,98 made up of the
$69,431 43 plus $35,491 55 in interest On April 27, a requisition was issued for the write of seizure and sale
In a letter to Salted Cracker sent to staff that has since been posted on social media, Pockett confirmed that a bailiff has seized the restaurants’ assets to cover a debt from an “old food supplier.”
“The company had been dealing with this since Covid closures but GFS got impatient with our payments,” Pockett said. “The bailiffs have taken everything... all equipment, all furniture, the white van and two of our personal vehicles and our house ”
All the locks on the properties have been changed, Pockett said, and added he has been be allowed to enter by appointment to retrieve tax records and personal items
“So needless to say, I have lost everything I own and the company is out of business. I cannot apologize enought for the stress this has caused I (sic) so, so, so very sorry....”
The list of invoices itemized in the notice of claim indicates that by January 2022, Salted Cracker had turned for the better as the three invoices listed for that month were marked as paid in full
Offenders hub in place
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
A team of prosecutors, probation officers and police focused on dealing with repeat violent offenders is now up and running in Prince George, according to the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
It’s part of the provincial government’s Repeat Violent Offending Intervention Initiative (ReVOII) program and one of 12 “hubs” across the province that became operational on May 1.
RCMP officers to work alongside the team in Prince George, using funding already approved in the 2023 budget
Federal Justice Minister David Lametti introduced legislation that would impose reverse-onus bail conditions for people charged with serious violent offences involving a weapon, in cases where the person was convicted of a similar violent offence within the past five years.
It would also add some firearms offences to existing reverse-onus provisions, and expand their use in cases where the alleged crimes involve intimate partner violence
Members of ReVOII hub in Prince George “are in the process of assessing referrals and meeting with various agencies and programs to collaborate and share information about how best to address the needs of individuals that are identified for this program ”
At its most recent regular meeting, city council approved hiring two additional
Prosecutors in such cases would no longer have to prove to judges why offenders should stay behind bars. However, experts say the bill introduced could be subject to a Charter challenge and see limited results - with files from Prince George Citizen and The Canadian Press
City faces fine
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The City of Prince George is facing a $1,250 penalty after an inspection of the Lansdowne Road wastewater treatment plant found six compliance issues. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy environmental protection officer Julia Coleman conducted a scheduled inspection of the wastewater plant on May 1 In a May 4 report, Coleman informed the city that she would be recommending an administrative monetary penalty for one of the compliance issues
A City of Prince George spokesperson said the city corrected the outstanding issues immediately
Killer’s claim disputed
MARK NIELSEN Citizen staff
The defendants named in a civil lawsuit have issued a distinctly different account of a strip search of a man serving a life sentence for the murder of a rival just outside Prince George.
Darren Cayley Daniel Sundman is seeking damages from Correctional Services Canada, the Attorney General of Canada, the warden at Kent Institution and three unnamed people, alleging in a notice of claim filed in March that a guard probed his anal cavity and left him with abrasions and bruises and psychological trauma.
But in a response filed May 19, the defendants deny the allegation
Instead, they say that in the course of the search, a guard found a roughly six-inch length of sharpened metal hidden inside one of Sundman’s shoes and that a small cellphone “approximately the size of a thumb” fell on the floor when he removed his underwear
The USB cable and the charger were also observed and Sundman was instructed to leave the items on the floor
At that point, Sundman became “non-compliant” and the two attending guards had to physically restrain him and other guards were called in to help. Once Sundman
was restrained, the cable and charger were retrieved but not the cellphone.
Upon arrival at the new prison - Sundman was being transferred from Kent Institution in Agassiz, B C to Donnaconna Institution in Quebec - he was placed in a cell for inmates suspected of having ingested or hidden contraband in a body cavity
Subsequent checks with a metal detector confirmed the presence of an object inside him.
Roughly a day later, Sundman “passed the cellphone during a bowel movement” and it was recovered by guards.
None of the allegations have been tested in court.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
The City of Prince George’s wastewater treatment plant on Lansdowne Road
MEET THE SCHOOL DISTRICT 57 BOARD CANDIDATES
LUCILLE DUNCAN
Lucille Duncan is originally from Binche Whut’en, a small community on Stuart Lake in the Fort St. James area.
Duncan is Dakelh (Carrier) and belongs to the Bear clan She is a residential school survivor and said she had to overcome many challenges to achieve her numerous life successes.
In 2005, Duncan received her social work diploma from the College of New Caledonia and received her mental health and addiction certificate from UNBC Since her graduation Duncan has been employed at Central Interior Native Health Society (CINHS) as the aboriginal support worker and now as an elder wellness / educator
At CINHS, Duncan has worked with a wide range of health care providers, social workers, outreach support workers, mental health clinicians, and administration. This work has allowed health
care professionals to understand the impacts of residential schools, systemic racism, and how to break down barriers of care
Duncan is known to share ideas on how providers can maintain positive therapeutic relationships with their clients and has been very instrumental in shaping decolonizing practices.
She has various training such as conflict resolution, uncovering the layers of stigma, provincial violence prevention and awareness of peer pressures. Additionally, Duncan works with many community partners in Prince George and surrounding areas as an advocate or in a working group
She also previously worked in her remote community in the local school as a language teacher, school guidance counselor and a substitute teacher
Afterwards, in 2012, she was employed by aboriginal education department at SD57 where she gained further skills in developing indigenous curriculum and sharing her culture and stories.
She was an elected school trustee for SD91, the Nechako Lakes District in 2014
and served until 2018.
She said these four years allowed her to gain experience in developing and implementing policies in a collaborative team of educators and administration.
Duncan said her primary interest has always been in the education system and health system to ensure that since we are in the era of truth and reconciliation that Indigenous perspective is being inclusive for the well-being of all Indigenous people.
She said she feels that she can bring her two eyed perspectives as an educator, make decisions as a team and ensure that safety policies are inclusive for all people.
When she is not working; she is busy raising her two granddaughters and enjoys traveling to her traditional territory gathering and harvesting her traditional food and teaching her Dakelh language
MILTON MAHONEY
Milton Mahoney, who previously won a seat as a trustee on the School District No. 57 (SD57) board during the January by-election, but was not re-elected during the general election the following October, is now throwing his hat in the ring to be a trustee once again.
He is a Red Seal tradesman with an instructor’s certificate and over 60 years in the workforce, where he held positions in unions from president to legislative representative
“I was a trustee for a short period starting in February 2022 As a trustee and only having one vote, my success was limited Being a member of the finance committee, I was able to cut some
spending ensuring some very important programs remained a part of the district,” said Mahoney.
He said for the most part he was hitting his head against the wall.
“It was far more difficult being a trustee than I had anticipated. In my very short time as a trustee, I predicted SD57 would be the worst district academically in the province and in fact, the Fraser Institute 2023 evaluation on BC`s School Districts rated SD57 one of the lowest ”
He claims he could not convince the board to correct the path it was on
“They chose instead to sanction me because they couldn’t terminate me I was hampered from speaking the truth on such matters and was not able to report to the public about the many issues the school district was facing ”
He said he believes the boards in the past were too politically motivated and that neither the board nor senior administration had the well-being of all students at the forefront of their goal setting Mahoney also takes issue with the high turnover of superintendents at the district, as well as the Special Advisors Report which evaluated the district’s governance practices and found evidence of systemic racism
“This district is the flagship for all the districts in the province, according to the former Minister of Education, when in fact this district is the laughingstock of all the districts in the province. This district is seen as the “what not to do” example for all boards and senior administration.”
He said he believes the recommendations in the Special Advisor’s report were compiled using “misinformation or information that is no longer relevant to how education is being offered in the district ”
Continued on page 5
LUCILLE DUNCAN
MILTON MAHONEY
MEET THE SCHOOL DISTRICT 57 BOARD CANDIDATES
Continued from page 4
Mahoney also takes issue with the strategic plan to enhance Indigenous education and Indigenous graduation rates
He said he believes that instead of raising the bar for all students, this district has lowered the expectation for our Indigenous students, “essentially lowering the rate for a pass to less than 40 per cent and every Indigenous student (regardless of passing Grade 12 or not) can now walk the stage at a high school graduation ceremony.”
He said there is definitely a place in the educational system and school district for local nations to have a voice in the education of their students, the same as
any other group of parents would.
“Indigenous Education needs to play a key part in our schools, as everyone’s history and culture is important and needs to be celebrated.”
Mahoney is also claiming that past administration teams had control over the school board by withholding information or not being truthful and points to how the district has updated its website, despite a rebranding motion being defeated by the board
“I believe this current board is on the right path for the most part, and I know we would work well together as a team to set this District on a road to recovery, where all students will be successful ”
SHAR MCCRORY
Shar McCrory has lived in northern B C for all of her adult life and settled in Prince George in 2022. She is the mother of three young adults and works in a regional role for Northern Health. She has volunteered on a number of boards and committees over the years and was a school board trustee for the Coast Mountain School District 82 for eight years, where she was board chair for six years and vice chair for two years
McCrory said she is running for trustee because she has been an advocate for youth and education for 25 years and can bring her experience to the role
“My journey with public education began with PACs and DPAC and led me to becoming a trustee. I have a strong knowledge of the role of trustee in the school district and know the difference between governance and operations,” she said “I believe in public education, and strongly believe we need to support the unique needs of every student so they can succeed I believe in positive change, collaboratively supporting students, teachers, staff, schools and communities ”
MEET THE SCHOOL DISTRICT 57 BOARD CANDIDATES
Continued from page 5
McCrory said if elected students will be her top priority.
“We need to question how we can do better to support students and support student achievement to reduce the gaps and challenges for every student. We need to continue making sure our schools are safe spaces for students and staff,” said McCrory
“We need to work collaboratively with our partner groups and make sure we are reporting back to the public, parents, students, staff and teachers We need to look at more ways to successfully hire, retain and support teachers and staff in our district We need to continue the good work in the district, schools and communities on Truth and Reconciliation, working on recommendations from the Special Advisors report ”
McCrory also ran as a candidate for school trustee in the October 15, 2022 election.
HEATHER MCKENZIE
Heather McKenzie was born and raised in Williams Lake as part of a ranch family.
She has over 27 years of experience in education administration and now works with Lheidli T’enneh First Nation where she implements traditional community programs from daycare to Grade 12.
and achieving remarkable educational outcomes I understand the importance of working together as a team and will bring patience, understanding, and clarity to the board.”
and ensure effective communication with the community By voting for me, you are choosing a dedicated advocate for your child’s education, their teachers, and their schools.”
“Throughout my career, I have prioritized collaboration, competitive analysis, and team leadership to achieve exceptional outcomes for First Nation communities. I believe it is time to bring my expertise and dedication to a broader platform My goal is to continue raising the bar for all learners in the district, ensuring that every student enrolled receives the best possible education I am committed to making a positive impact on their lives and empowering them to succeed,” said McKenzie.
She said her experience in education administration, coupled with strong leadership skills positions her to be an effective trustee.
“I have a proven track record of fostering collaboration, building capacity,
She said she prioritizes student success above all else, and is dedicated to supporting parents, guardians, educators, and the community as a whole.
McKenzie said she believes in creating believe in creating an inclusive and safe environment for all students “Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) policies play a crucial role in ensuring that every student feels respected, accepted, and supported,” said McKenzie “These policies protect the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ students and promote equality and understanding within our schools and communities I fully support the SOGI policies in place both at the district and provincial levels and will advocate for their continued implementation and improvement.”
McKenzie said she understand the complexities and challenges facing schools.
“I will work tirelessly to bring the board together, support parents and guardians,
HOW TO VOTE IN THE JUNE 17 BYELECTION
Prince George voters will go to the polls on June 17 to elect two trustees to serve on the School District 57 board of education The byelection was prompted by the resignation of trustees Betty Bekkering and Gillian Burnett
On June 17, polling stations will be open from 8 a m to 8 p m at Glenview (7310 Cluff Rd ), Heritage (257 Anderson St ), Malaspina (7900 Malaspina Blvd ) and Pineview (8515 Old Cariboo Hwy ) elementary schools, as well as the Van Bien Training Centre, located at 311 Wilson Cres.
Advance voting will be available at the School District 57 head office (2100 Ferry Ave ) on June 7 and June 13, from 8 a m to 8 p.m. For more information on the byelection and voter eligibility, visit the School District 57 website.
Grizzly shooting probed
The B C Conservation Service is investigating an alleged shooting of a grizzly bear north of Quesnel The BCCOS said conservation officers located a dead grizzly and four suspects and seized three rifles after responding to a tip. Names of the suspects were not released and charges remain pending.
Huge hydrogen project in works
ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff
The McLeod Lake Indian Band is exploring the development of Canada’s largest hydrogen project.
The proposed project would be located at the Kerry Lake East Indian Reserve, located about 80 km north of Prince George, and is expected to cost more than $5 billion to build, a statement released by the band said “We are very excited about this project’s potential and by Mitsubishi Power’s intent to partner with us,” Chief Harley Chingee said
“We have made quick progress in less than a year towards a project that will provide jobs and sustainable revenue for the McLeod Lake people for decades to come and help meet overseas demand for clean Canadian hydrogen We are working closely with Mitsubishi Power Americas which is developing a number of hydrogen hubs in the United States, including a utility-scale clean hydrogen hub already under construction in Utah ”
The project concept calls for the production of ‘green hydrogen’ – derived from non-fossil fuel sources – and ‘blue hydrogen’ produced from natural gas,
while storing the carbon dioxide emitted. Ammonia production is also anticipated to be part of the development.
“The Tse’khene Energy Transition Hub is ideally suited for the development of large-scale industrial development,” project CEO Dave LaVallie said.
“The site is proximal to all the required infrastructure for clean energy export projects ”
Chingee met with Premier David Eby and B C Energy Minister Josie Osborne in Victoria on May 3 to brief them about the proposed project, the band statement said
The band has been working with
the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation and the BC Energy Regulator on a draft memorandum of understanding respecting the project Talks with BC Hydro are ongoing, as are discussions with interested investors, customers, and additional partners, while technical work on the project feasibility is ongoing.
“We have a long way to go to make this project a reality, but the concept is less than one year old, and we are moving quickly,” Chingee said. “We are talking with several other major energy infrastructure companies who are interested in partnering or becoming customers ”
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ATTACKS NEED TO STOP
An Open Letter to The Office of The Wet’suwet’en Hereditary chiefs
The pipeline went through Now we must move forward and heal.
The residents of northern B C need to live with the type of people attracted to the employment. I’ve been a registered nurse for almost 31 years I’ve never had my career harmfully attacked as I have had this past year, by non Wet’suwet’en pipeline bloggers from northern B C who didn’t like my opposition I succeeded at national and international levels as a nurse
I renewed my B C nurses license for three months in January then let it expire. I dreamed of going home before I retire, especially with my experience as a telemetry nurse equipped with computerized donated IV pumps from my place of employment The following experiences ruined it:
-- a half-true article was published about me on a northern B.C. blog aimed at anti-pipeline Wet’suwet’en in October 2022
-- An expired nursing license from 2013 was posted on Twitter by a pro pipeline blogger who I don’t know They were asking where I worked.
-- A blogger who literally stalks native women was using my 83-year-old mother’s photo, refusing to stop.
-- That same person showed a photo of my autobiography released by Amazon, voicing intent to harm. The pipeline went through, so stop attacking us who have opposed.
To my true leaders, hereditary chiefs, please intervene by leading a healing path. Ask Wet’suwet’en to stop sharing information with people who are a danger to our delguumeaux ( oral history) by sharing information learned in the feast hall with witnesses Their intent will continually divide our nation. Even well-intentioned students shouldn’t be publishing books about us, as
their interpretation without being a witness endangers our delguumeaux
A healthy nation puts our own, not outsiders. Wet’suwet’en need to talk to one another now and not to those dividing us to heal. Remember what our ancestors taught us about those not to be trusted You know who they mean.
People like me, daughter of a late Second World War
vet, hereditary chief, delguumeaux witness, have not benefited But I’m paying dearly by the type of people that project attracted.
I’m sure some community members find the events horrifying. Our legacies are now defined with the history of this Let’s get our values in sync to move on for our grandchildren to live in a healthier nation.
Cynthia George Taha, Bellingham, Wash
We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.
Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.
NEIL GODBOUT EDITORIN-CHIEF CURTIS ARMSTRONG PUBLISHER
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Concert shortage keeping CN Centre dark
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Where have all the concerts gone?
In pre-COVID times, Prince George was a major player on the small-city concert tour and CN Centre was a venue that hosted 10-20 concerts annually Situated at the crossroads of two major highways, concert-goers would travel all day to get to Prince George to their music idols live on stage
Touring musicians Shania Twain, Dwight Yoacham, John Fogerty, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, Miranda Lambert, Nazareth, Kiss, Elton John and Nickelback and Tragically Hip played Prince George, and Jerry Seinfeld and Russell Peters twice brought their comedy acts that packed the CN Centre stands.
But not this year
That entertainment train has been derailed Everything from the cost of travel, the high U.S. dollar exchange rate, Canadian taxes on touring artists, and a shortage of skilled production technicians is leaving concert promoters scratching their heads wondering what they have to pull out of their tailspins and get back to booking shows like they used to do.
CN Centre entertainment manager Glen Mikkelsen says there is no easy answer.
“Prince George is not alone, all the markets like ours – Dawson Creek, Kamloops, Kelowna, Lethbridge, Red Deer, Moose Jaw, Regina – across the country have the same issue, there’s just not a lot of entertainment as far as concerts coming into our buildings,” said Mikkelsen “The Canadian entertainment industry is challenged right now to find acts that will play venues like ours.”
These days, a bank will give you just $74.28 US for $100 Canadian and international acts want to be paid in U S dollars, which sends ticket prices skyrocketing. Gas prices remain high throughout
Canada and the cost of meals, accommodation and wages have also spiked, making tours cost-prohibitive.
“There’s also taxation, when acts come to Canada they’re charged a different tax rate than they are in American and that is a deterrent,” said Mikkelsen. “They are taxed 15 per cent on their fees and they can make applications to get that back through Canada Revenue but some don’t and just forego it.”
A concert that draws a big crowd
brings revenue to city businesses and hotels, restaurants and retail stores and put tradespeople and service industry workers to work But now those opportunities are few and far between. Mikkelsen says he will probably book between six and eight concerts this year in CN Centre.
There are opportunities to host other events such as the B.C. Natural Resources Expo, Jehovah Witness convention, indoor night markets and graduation ceremonies but the concerts people used to
Paul Stanley) with Eric Singer on drums play to a crowd of more than 5,000 fans at CN Centre on June 29, 2011. Above, Elton John played to a crowd of more than 6,200 at CN Centre on July 19, 2010.
look forward to are not coming through. People are spending hundreds, if not thousands of dollars to travel to major cities to see A-listers Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Madonna and Bruce Springsteen on their summer tours For some, their yearly entertainment budget will be spent on one live show Mikkelsen says the big tours have created a shortage of rental soundstage equipment and have drained the talent pool for sound and light technicians in an industry already facing shortages when skilled workers were forced to find alternate careers when the pandemic kept acts grounded for two years
Billy Talent coming to Prince George in October
Canadian punk icons Billy Talent will be performing at CN Centre on Oct. 15. Tickets for the all-ages show go on sale on Friday at 10 a m at Tickets North
“Canadian punk quartet Billy Talent spent the latter part of the 1990s building a hard-won grassroots following before breaking out into mainstream success in 2003 when their Juno Award-winning debut Billy Talent went quadruple-platinum, sending them on an upward trajectory for much of the decade,” a statement
released by concert promoter Live Nation said “As they began to incorporate new elements into their music, their fans followed, helping to lift each of their subsequent studio albums - including the multi-platinum Billy Talent II and III - to
the top of the Canadian Albums chart.” The band’s sixth album, Crisis of Faith, was released in 2022 and earned two Juno nominations Canadian pop-punk band Gob will be the opening act
Left, KISS at CN Centre in Prince George (left to right Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and
SENIORS FUNDING
The Prince George Council of Seniors has received additional funding for a program to help seniors living with mental health and addiction issues, and facing homelessness, access supports
The B.C. Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions announced $809,000 in additional funding for 10 community agencies providing the Seniors Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program The program is delivered by the Prince George Council of Seniors, Seniors First BC, Moving Forward Family Services and local agencies in Nanaimo, Langley, Kelowna, Surrey, Vancouver and New Westminster New partners will expand the service to Victoria, Richmond and Penticton this year
SHINE helps connect seniors to supports for mental health and addictions, financial assistance, safe housing, and provides advocacy in disputes where seniors are pushed out of rental homes.
FREE PAP TESTS
Papapalooza is coming to Prince George on June 3.
The event, running from noon to 4 p.m. at Central Interior Native Health (1110 Fourth Ave.), is open to anyone 25-years or older who needs a Pap test Pap tests are recommended every three years for people aged 25 to 69, to screen for signs of cervical cancer.
Papapalooza was developed by Dr Kristi Kyle and UBC Northern Medical Program graduate Dr Christine Layton, according to information released by the Northern Medical Program
“We envisioned offering an event where those aged 25-69 who were due for a Pap smear could easily access care, update their screening, and receive trauma-informed care,” said Layton, a family doctor in Nanaimo
To date, events have been held in Nanaimo, Victoria, Vancouver, Kelowna and Ottawa, and organizers are hoping to bring the events to other communities in B C , Alberta and Ontario
“We are hoping to improve access to this important screening Many people who need it face barriers in accessing this care, such as not having a family doctor or feeling uncomfortable in getting
the test from their regular provider, for example,” said Hannah Le Bouder, a UBC Northern Medical Program student who is helping to organize the Papapalooza event in Prince George.
Anyone needing a Pap test can book an appointment at Papapalooza online.
AIRPORT UPGRADES
Nine small airports in northern and central B.C. are receiving provincial grants to support economic development, improve safety and increase access for rural communities
The provincial government announced $19 8 million in funding for 40 projects at 29 rural and remote airports in B C through the BC Air Access Program Projects include runway extensions, improved runway lighting, pavement improvements, terminal enhancements and better fire protection.
“The BC Air Access Program helps communities, especially smaller ones, with important improvements to their aviation facilities,” Transportation Minister Rob Fleming said in a statement “This investment will help move people and goods, improve safety and benefit front-line services, like air ambulance and wildfire fighting, as well as making for more secure access to remote and Indigenous communities ”
Projects in northern and central B.C. which received funding include:
• 108 Mile - $2 million for runway rehabilitation
• Bob Quinn Lake - $87,650 for an airport master plan and for a solar-powered weather camera with altimeter and
satellite uplink.
• Dease Lake - $88,200 for an airport master plan and new batteries for solar-powered hazard beacons
• Fort St. James - $2 million for the runway end safety area, lighting improvements and a master plan.
• Fraser Lake - $55,650 for pavement markings and an upgrade to runway shoulders
• Kitimat - $511,250 for a greenhouse gas emission audit, and taxiway and apron improvements.
• McBride - $259,000 to rehabilitate runway and airside pavement.
• Vanderhoof - $330,984 for runway and apron lighting
• Williams Lake - $83,750 for an apron lighting upgrade and two automatic security gates
FREE BUS RIDES
The City of Prince George is waiving bus fares for all riders in celebration of national Clean Air Day on June 7 Canadians are encouraged to take public transit, cycle or walk to decrease air pollution on Clean Air Day.
“Every year, the city partners with BC Transit on a number of transit programs and promotions We are happy to waive bus fares to encourage citizens to try our transit system,” said Dave Bradshaw, city transportation and technical services manager “The city is committed to providing accessible transportation options for residents in Prince George ”
Dreamcatcher artist shares culture, knowledge
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
To honour and revitalize her culture Hailey George creates meaningful beauty as a Wet’suwet’en dreamcatcher artist.
Traditionally the first dreamcatcher created by an artist goes to their teacher, Hailey said, so on a Father’s Day a few years ago, Hailey presented her dad Peter with her first And it’s not the last With a decade of research behind her, Hailey’s mission is to share her knowledge to keep her culture alive, growing and thriving
“This is my passion project to share culture,” Hailey said “I use my creations to get back to my roots The more dreamcatchers I do, the more I learn I try and give them names in my traditional language and I don’t always know what those words are so that means I have to pull out my dictionary and translate it all and reference it and that means I have learned something new ”
Both Hailey’s grandparents are Lejac Residential School survivors
“What they went through they said they would not put their children through so they moved off reserve and my dad and his entire generation are day school survivors
and it’s basically the same thing the residential school survivors went through but these children were allowed to come home so they weren’t completely separated from their families like my grandparents were,” she said
“There’s a lot of trauma in my family and my dad worked very hard to break a lot of that before I came along but I can’t say that I wasn’t born into it and have
Miracle Theatre raises $190,000
CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff
Miracle Theatre has raised
$190,141.10 from its production of Dancing Lessons that will be used to establish the Refugees and Hope Endowment Fund at the Prince George Community Foundation.
The first beneficiary of the fund will be Prince George’s Share Hope Committee to support their work
with Ukrainian refugee families coming to Prince George.
The funds not only came from ticket sales but also to donations to the cause
“Because we asked the Community Foundation to place the proceeds into an endowment the Refugee Fund will be permanent,” Ted Price, Miracle Theatre director, said.
“The plight of Ukrainian families is top of mind but when the crisis
passes the fund will still be there to help those finding themselves in Prince George seeking refuge from violence or destruction – whether they come from across the globe or down the street.”
This is the third endowment fund Miracle Theatre has created with proceeds going to local charities
In total, Miracle Theatre has created endowment funds in the amount of $530,956.
had to do a lot of my own healing as well. I know they went through a lot of trauma at the residential school ”
Hailey has an active social media presence and has used her Facebook page to share her culture and her people’s teachings that survived despite the residential school experience and to show people the beautiful spiritual beliefs that people could tap into during times of grief or struggle to offer them some direction, she added
“My wish for my people is justice and healing,” she said “I want our stories to be heard in a respectful way where it’s safe for our survivors to share their experiences and especially for us intergenerational survivors what I want is for us to be breaking all these generational curses, immersing ourselves in our language without shame, without fear – I want the revitalization of it ”
Hailey has been fortunate enough to have access and spent the last 10 years learning all she could
“So my goal is for them to learn as well,” Hailey said “I’m very hopeful for that and that’s what I am using my dreamcatchers for – to bring back the art form and bring cultural awareness I want to advocate for everybody who came before me. They survived so much and they worked so hard so this knowledge could be shared ”
Find Hailey at Facebook/SkiZaCrookedFeathers
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Dreamcatcher artist Hailey George
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
From left: Anne Laughlin, Miracle Theatre producer; Eva Gillis, chair of Prince George’s Share Hope Committee; Mindy Stroet, Prince George Community Foundation; and Ted Price, Miracle Theatre director.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
You’ll oversee a meeting at work. It’ll allow you to show off your skills and get that long -coveted promotion. The full moon will give you some thing to celebrate.
TAURUS
Summer holidays are coming up fast, at least for your children. This will take a lot of the stress and responsibility off your shoulders and allow you to enjoy the present moment.
GEMINI
You’ll spend more time than expected on a project close to your heart. You may need to talk openly about your relationship if there’s uneasiness between you and your significant other
CANCER
You’ll make agreements with new clients that will satisfy you. You have a keen eye for detail. This full moon could affect your energy levels; don’t overdo it.
LEO
You’ll put in extra hours at work, allowing you to bank holiday time. Reward yourself with a bit of luxury
VIRGO
You’ll make important decisions about your professional future and health. You’ll try a new routine that aligns with your aspirations and produces results.
LIBRA
The full moon will encourage deep conversations with friends and family At work, effective communication will help you overcome a difficult situation. You must adopt a healthier diet to improve your well being.
SCORPIO
You’ll suppress your feelings this week. However, talking about how you feel can be liberating. It’ll allow you to purge negative emotions and regain a sense of well-being.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
You’re full of ideas and initiatives. However, you won’t be able to satisfy everyone. The full moon will cause some confusion at work and elsewhere.
AQUARIUS
You may need a second cup of coffee to help you concentrate on all the tasks you have to get done. Confusion will run rampant this week, making it difficult to be understood.
PISCES
The full moon will stress you out! That’s why you need to let go, grab a friend and visit a massage therapist or spa to relax.
You may discover a mistake on an old bill that helps you solve a budget problem You may have to rene gotiate with a client at work, or they could change their mind.
classifieds
REMEMBRANCES
WilliamEldieWard
Sept.7th,1933-March24th,2023
Come celebrate Eldie’s amazing life with family and friends. Time 3-6pm, June 9th, 2023
Upstairs on the patio of the Black Clover Pub (1165-5th Ave) Please join us and share your stories.
Celebrationoflifefor HowardJohn
Lloyd
March16,1930December27,2022
A Celebration of Life will be held for Howard at 2 pm, Sat. June 17 at the old Knox United Church downtown, 1448 - 5th Ave, where HowardandMargenjoyedfellowshipping.
Detail
Our beautiful mother and daughter ADRIENNE (LEA) LEONA FELKER (September 12, 1971 – February 13, 2023) made her journey to the other side after passing away peacefully in her sleep
s for Lea’s Celebration of Life:
Date: Saturday June 10, 2023 starting at 1:00pm
Where: Prince George Native Friendship Centre 1600-3rd Avenue
Lea’s remains will be interned close by her brother Steve at the PG Memorial Cemetery.
It is with sadness we announce the passing of Howard Lloyd, in Nanaimo, B.C. on December 27,2022.
Howard leaves behind his loving wife Margaret’ and their children, Gail Corrigal, Wanda (Ed) Turski, Grant (Darleen) Pilon, Lorne (Debbie) Lloyd, Judy (Carl) Hyde, Guy (Penny) Pilon. He was predeceased by his wife Helen (1979), son Gary, son-in-law Neil, and many siblings. Howard had 15 grandchildren that he adored (the feeling wasmutual),and31great-grandchildren.
Howard was born in Turtleford, Saskatchewan in 1930, 4th in a family of 12 children. His family moved to B.C. when he was 10, and he lived in PrinceGeorge,B.C.foralmostallofhislife.
Howard loved everything outdoors. Hunting, fishing,logging,boating,etc Hewasaproud65 year member of the PG Elks. He ran Howard Lloyd Logging for many years. He was a City Counsellor/ Regional Director for PG. (1972-75), and also was an MLA for the Fort George Riding (1975- 79). After that; he tried his hand at hay farming in Beaverley’ until he retired in the 1990s
He enjoyed his cabin at Bednesti Lake, travelling to visit friends and family and eventually moved toNanaimo,B.C.,afewyearsago.
He especially enjoyed being a husband, father, grandpa,brotherandfriendtomany.
SylviaChristineKorotash
1960-2023
Sylvia Christine Korotash, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, onMay17,2023.
Sylvia was born to Ann (nee Procyshyn) and Mike Basaraba on November 26, 1960, in Winnipegosis, Manitoba. She grew up on her family farm surrounded by friends and family After losing her mom at the tender age of 12, Sylvia and her sisters assumed responsibilities of helping run the household and assisting in raising their siblings. Sylvia always spoke of the beautiful memories she had of her mom and missed her greatly On August 14, 1982, at the age of 21, Sylvia married her childhood sweetheart, Peter Korotash They moved to Winnipeg in 1985 and in 1989, had their first child, Meghan Marie. In 1991, the family was made complete with the birth of Jason Peter Michael. Sylvia loved her children dearly and chose to leave her career in the banking industry to become a full-time homemaker after Jason was born. She was always a dedicated wife and mother first and foremost. In 1993, Sylvia, Peter, and the children began a new adventure when they moved west to Prince George, BC. Sylvia will always be remembered for her hospitality, kind heart, and loyalty to family and friends. Her determined spirit and strength were admired and passed on to her son, Jason. She was an amazing cook and gardener and passed on her love of these things to her daughter, Meghan. Sylvia was immensely proud of their family’s Ukrainian heritage and was well known for her delicious borscht and perogies, among other tasty treats. At a celebration, you could always find her and Peter on the dance floor doing a polka In 2016, Sylvia became a grandmother for the first time. Being a grandma was one of her greatest joys in life, and she spent countless hours playing with and caring for her grandchildren. Not being able to properly pronounce her name, her eldest granddaughter, Ruby, would call her Grandma Ceeda. This name stuck andwillalwaysbefondlyremembered.
Sylvia was predeceased by her mother, Ann, in 1973 and her father, Mike, in 1995. Sylvia is survived and will be lovingly remembered by her husband Peter, her two children, Meghan Ginter (Adrian) and Jason Korotash (Jordann), and her precious grandchildren Ruby and Georgia Ginter, and JackPeter Korotash. She was also eagerly anticipating the arrival of Jason and Jordann’s second child. Sylvia is also survived by her brothers and sisters, Marvin Basaraba (Kathy), Peter Basaraba, Vicky Warkentin (Hans), Margaret McCorrister (Ross), John Basaraba (Sherry), Gordon Basaraba (Michelle) and her brothers-in-law Les Byskal and Perry Korotash (Glenda). She is further survived by numerous nephews and nieces including her goddaughters, Nichole Erickson and Melissa Kuyp. In addition to her parents, Sylvia was predeceased by her eldest sister, MaryAnn Byskal, her father-in-law, Peter Korotash, her mother-in-law, Mary Korotash, and her nephew, Tyson Korotash.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered condolences and walked by their side since Sylvia’s passing. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Prince George New Life Centre SocietyoracharityofyourchoiceinSylvia’smemory
Family and friends will gather to celebrate her life on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 11:00 am PST at College Heights Baptist Church in Prince George, BC. A luncheon will follow the interment of ashes. For those that wish to attend online, a live stream of the service will occur on YouTube commencing at 11amPSTathttps://youtube.com/live/jRgz8EGJ-ak?feature=share
REMEMBRANCES
Obituaries
MarilynHall
Feb21,1938-May2,2023
Marilyn Hall, a local artist and long-time Prince George resident passed away peacefully at University Hospital of Northern BC with her 2 daughters at her side at age 85 (she would hate to see her agewritten).
Marilyn was born in northern Ontario and moved to Vancouver at age 10. After graduating from high school, she studied at the Vancouver School of Art, today known as the Emily Carr School of Art. She also studied at the Art Student’s League in New York City and in Italy at theInternationalSchoolofArt.
She has been drawing and painting most of her life. Her work was ever changing, using a variety of mediumstocreatenewandexcitingpieces.
Marilyn married the love of her life Jim Hall in 1963 where they eventually settled in Prince George, BC. They lived happily together and had 3 children, Julie, Jay and Britt. Jim passed away August 1998 after a hard-foughtbattlewithcancer
Marilyn is survived by her 2 daughters Julie and Britt and predeceased by her son Jay Marilyn has 7 grandchildren; Caitlin and Tatum (Julie), Kristi-Anne, Kassie and Jake (Jay) and Jessie and Sammy (Britt andKen)allofwhomshelovedverymuch.
Marilyn was an active part of the community, donating time to St. Michael and All Angels Church every Sunday Marilyn made her famous egg salad sandwiches for the soup kitchen and did art for the church. She was active with the Prince George Senior Center and if you shopped at Costco, in Prince George, you mayhaveseenheronFriday’sservingsamplesofferingeducationonwhatshewasserving.
Marilyn was an out-going, high energy contributor to the community who will be greatly missed by her family and everyone that crossed her path. Marilyn no doubt has found the best light to set her easel up in withthebiggestsmile!
Thank you to the staff on the Family Medicine Unit at Prince George University Hospital for your care, empathy and compassion, we are truly grateful. Service will be held Saturday July 1st at 1 pm at St. MichaelandAllAngelsChurch,PrinceGeorge.
H Journey’sJust Begun
Dont think of her as gone away, Her journey’s just begun. Life holds so many facets, This earth is only one Just think of her as resting, From the sorrows and the tears, In a place of warmth and comfort, Where there are no days and years Think how she must be wishing, That we could know today, How nothing but our sadness, Can really pass away And think of her as living, In the hearts of those she touched, For nothing loved is ever lost; And she was loved so much by E. Brenneman
JohnBlackburn Howarth
January22,1951May6,2023
John Blackburn Howarth passed away peacefully in hospice after a final battle withcancer HislovingwifeDenisewaswithhiminhisfinalhours.
John was born in Edmonton, Alberta, to parents Bob and Charmian Howarth. A second generation locomotive engineer, he worked for CN and later for Via Rail on the Skeena between Smithers and Jasper After retiring he went on to teachrailwayengineeringatBCIT
John was an active outdoor enthusiast, a traveler, a talented log home builder, a musician, a poet and notorious prankster He formed deep connections with the people around him and leaves a great hole in the community with his passing.
He leaves behind his wife Denise, his younger brother Charles, and 3 children Verity, Annie and Robbie. Surviving nearly 23 years since his first cancer diagnosis, he was able to meet and know all 5 of his grandchildren, Jacob, Jessica,Avery,HopeandJohnny
A celebration of his eccentric and memorable life will be held on Sunday, June 4th,at1pmintheMcCaffrayAtriumatUNBC.
Glenn Mathew Lindsell
June17,1954May20,2023
Glenn passed peacefully after a lengthy illness in Williams Lake. He will be missed by his daughters Marcie (Mike), Jenny, grandchildren Braydon, Koddie, Micheal, Gabrielle, great grandson Leon, as well as countless family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Bud andDora,andbrotherRod.
Glenn the self proclaimed “Dump God”, spent many years as a logger followed by just as many as a garbage man for City of PG If you ever sat and had a conversation with Glenn you soon realized he was likely the smartest man in the room, if you didn’t he would surely let you know He loved music, learning especially history, traveling, and spending time with his long time friendsTim,Dayle,Kevin,andRosie.
Good bye Dad, Grampa Geezer, and friend may your travels be full of new knowledge, good music, cold beer, lots of laughs and love to spare. Till we meet again.
Noservicebyrequest.
Because I Love You So
Schulz,JodiFay
May5,1963-May14,2023
Jodi passed away peacefully on May 14, 2023, following her courageous two year battle with cancer.
Jodi was a firecracker, both a lover and a fighter, and with her zest for life there was rarely a moment that something ‘big’ wasn’t happening when she was in your presence. She lived, laughed, and loved with an energy and passion thatwastruetohercore.
Jodi found happiness and peace in nature, animals, flowers, photography, yoga, music rocks, and the ocean. She found fun and excitement in finding bargains, spending time with her close friends during a walk, snowshoe, or at a campfire, and especially on adventures with her dog Willow in thevan.
As a world traveller, Jodi was fortunate to visit many beautiful places and meet many beautiful people, she always cherished those memories and friendships. Of all the places she did visit, the place she fell in love with most was Haida Gwaiidrawn to its raw nature, beauty and peacefulness. This is where you’ll find her these days….soaring withtheeaglesandsplashinginthewaves…
Jodi is survived and much missed by her best friend and four legged companion Willow, son Mitchell and her former husband Michael, stepfather Larry, brother David (Lori) and sister, Laurene.Shewillalsobemissedbyhernieces,nephews,friendsandneighbours. Inlieuofflowers,donationsmaybemadetoPrinceGeorgeHospicePalliativeCareSociety
Thank you to all of her friends, all of the medical practitioners and all those at Hospice House that took care of her during the last two years of her life journey The kindness, loving, and support will alwaysberemembered.
LAND ACT: NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR A DISPOSITION OF CROWN LAND
Take notice that Kathleen Rocheleau, from Mcleod Lake, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Omineca Region, for a Crown Grant for Rural Residential purposes situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Mcleod Lake, described as Lot 1 & 2, District Lot 5713, Cariboo District, Plan 28586. The Lands File for this application is 7405200. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Susan Spears, Authorizations Specialist, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Omineca Region at 5thFloor 499 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L1R5, or Susan.Spears@gov.bc.ca Comments will be received by Ministry of Forests, Lands, Omineca Region up to July 1, 2023. Ministry of Forests, Lands, Omineca Region may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions. A hard copy MAP showing the location and extent of the application area may be acquired by calling the Authorizations Specialist named above at 250-561-3479.
WAREHOUSEMAN’S LIEN ACT
PERSONALS
Whereas the following are indebted to Ace Auto Wrecking Ltd., dba NC Ron’s Towing, for towing and storage of persona property and ought to have been paid, and are still unpaid, notice is hereby given that the said properties will be sold to pay the outstanding debt, plus costs of seizure, advertising and sale, one week from the date of this notice on the 8th day of June, 2023, at 1360 Foley Cres, Prince George
Name Year/make Model VIN Debt
Sierra 1GTHK23K98F105604 2,740.55
CandaceVanDijk 2000GMC Sierra 1GTGK29U7YE377644 2,092.86
an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
• 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
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 advertise, call 250-562-6666 or email cls@pgcitizen.ca
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300
What’s a pre-purchase inspection?
Investing
WHY YOU SHOULD INVEST IN AN INSPECTION
A pre-purchase inspection aims to identify any problems with the property you’re looking to buy This information can help you negotiate a better sale price or even consider withdrawing your offer to purchase. In short, it tells you the exact condition and value of the home you’re bidding on.
WHAT DOES AN INSPECTOR DO?
The inspector will examine the home’s condition, both inside and out. This includes the electricity, plumbing, foundation, heating system, siding,
roofing and ventilation. It’s important to note that a pre-purchase inspection cannot detect hidden defects but may point to signs of them.
Once complete, the inspector will send you a written report with their observations. The report will detail the condition of the inspected areas and indicate those that weren’t checked and why. The report may also recommend work, like replacing the home’s windows or roof
To ensure you’re getting the facts and making the best decision, hire an experienced, trustworthy inspector
Finding Homes for Families
What does it mean to have good credit for buying a house?
3 elements to consider when buying a waterfront property
Do you want to buy a home near the sea, close to a river or on a lake? Whether you’re considering building or buying an existing home, there are several things you need to know before moving near water
1. HIGH PRICE TAG
Homes with direct access to the water usually have a high price tag. For example, maintaining a dock or seawall adds to the total cost of the property. You don’t get that same easy access with a water-view property and may have to rent a space for your boat if you enjoy water activities.
2. INCREASED RISK
Although properties near water offer beautiful scenery, they come with added risks, including frequent repairs due to
wind and possible flooding Moreover, your insurance premium will likely increase and should be factored into your budget
3. PROXIMITY TO SERVICES
Not all properties near water have the same access to certain services, such as drinking water, electricity, internet and local shops. Additionally, being close to the water doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be able to use a boat. Some municipalities prohibit gas-powered watercraft because of noise and safety concerns.
Are you looking forward to owning a waterfront property? Contact a real estate broker or contractor to help you find your dream home.
The 5 most durable fence materials
When building a new fence, pick high-quality, durable materials to ensure it lasts for years to come. Choosing poor materials can lead to an ugly, sagging fence that’ll be expensive to repair Here are some of the most durable fencing materials on the market.
If you’re planning on buying a home, you’ll likely need to obtain a mortgage. Do you think having a good credit score is all you need? Think again!
THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD CREDIT SCORE
Your credit score serves as a risk indicator for lenders If your score is below 650, this could limit your pool of potential lenders
Conversely, if your score exceeds 720, financial institutions will be more likely to trust you and give you a better rate
CREDIT REPORT
In addition to your credit score, your credit report includes essential information
about your credit history, including data about various types of credit, such as lines of credit and revolving credit.
GETTING A LOAN
Every financial institution has a process for assessing your creditworthiness They usually check your credit rating, income, down payment, mortgage stress-test score and other elements
Contact a financial advisor or mortgage broker to find out about your financial and credit situation.
1 Wrought iron Ornamental iron fences can last hundreds of years if regularly maintained. In fact, some of the wroughtiron latticework found in the French Quarter of New Orleans dates back to the 1700s. However, iron is prone to rust and must be regularly repainted
2. Brick or masonry. Fences built from brick or concrete can withstand the test of time However, these materials are pricey and must be installed by professional masons.
4 Vinyl A relative newcomer in fencing material, vinyl can be designed to resemble wood and metal. It doesn’t rot or rust and is resistanttopests Allyouneedtodoiswash it down once a year to keep dirt and debris at bay.
3 Aluminum Lightweight, rust-resistant and easy to install, aluminum fences are a sure bet for any climate Aluminum requires littletonomaintenanceandcanbepainted to match your home’s exterior.
5. Pressure-treated wood. Wood fences are timeless. Fortunately, pressure-treated wood can last many decades with annual upkeep, such as painting and staining Consult a fence professional to discuss what type of fencing material is best for your property.
4 advantages of having your couches and carpets cleaned professionally
Over time, your carpets and fabric-covered furniture accumulate a lot of dirt and bacteria Although vacuuming does a decent job, it doesn’t get your fabrics thoroughly clean Here are four advantages of hiring a professional cleaner
1. Theyremoveall dirt. Professional cleaning tools and products are designed to deeply penetrate fabrics to dislodge dust, pollen, bacteria, dust mites and more
2. They extend the life of your fabrics. Professional cleaners know how to treat various materials, including cotton, silk and linen, to achieve the best results. Expert care can prevent you from damaging your upholstery with an inappropriate cleaning tool or product, such as a stain remover that’s too harsh.
3. They remove stubborn stains. Expert cleaners use specially designed equipment and techniques to remove even the most stubborn stains to ensure your furniture and carpets look new.
4. They remove bad smells. Over time, carpets and couches can trap unplea-
sant smells from pets, smoke and cooking. A thorough cleaning ensures your fabrics have a pleasant and neutral scent.
Many carpet and upholstery cleaning companies also offer stain protection treatments. Find out more about this service to keep your belongings clean for longer.
What material should you choose for your deck?
Do you want a backyard deck where you can enjoy the warm, sunny days of summer? Before you can kick back and relax, you must choose the right building material
PLENTY OF CHOICES
There’s no shortage of deck materials for you to choose from Here are a few examples:
• Natural wood is rustic, customizable and affordable. However, it requires regular maintenance, which can add to the cost
can also be made from recycled materials.
• Treatedwoodisapopularandaffordable material Keep in mind that it must be pressure washed and re-stained annually
• Composite is made from recycled wood and plastic. It’s easy to maintain, safe and durable. However, it can be tricky to install.
• PVC is less common than other materials Nevertheless, it’s durable, easy to install and requires virtually no maintenance It
HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE
To make an informed decision, consider the advantages and disadvantages of each material. Consider your budget, the required maintenance and your esthetic preferences. You must also assess your long-term needs.
For professional results, entrust your deck installation to an expert.
