Jim Owen finally got to meet his hockey hero Bobby Orr through the magic of a video phone call.
At 78, Owen knows he’s coming to the end of his life and it’s not likely he will ever get out of hospital care to return to living on his own in his Port Moody home. In that apartment on his kitchen wall he has that famous photo of Orr flying through the air when he got tripped after scoring the overtime goal that gave the Boston Bruins their 1970 Stanley Cup championship.
Back in Prince George, Louise and Richard Lefebvre wanted to do something meaningful for their good friend in his dying days, so Louise reached out to the
Bobby Orr Fan Club through his Florida-based website.
After a couple tries, Orr and Owen were able to get together for a face-to-face video call using Stephanie’s phone.
During their five-minute conversation, Orr asked Owen if he’d been watching Vancouver Canucks games and he acknowledged he was, but made it clear his heart lies with the Bruins.
“Our Bruins have been struggling lately,” said Orr.
Stephanie asked her dad what he loved about watching Orr play and he said it was his skating ability, which allowed him to make breathtaking rink-length rushes with the puck.
Said Orr: “(Quinn) Hughes is like that, on Vancouver, he can skate.”
See ‘THAT’S THE TOP OF THE LIST’, page 5
Bobby Orr phone call raises spirits for dying man
Louise and Richard Lefebvre of Prince George visit with their good friend Jim Owen at his Port Moody apartment. A phone call from hockey legend Bobby Orr resulted in an unforgettable moment for Owen last month. GRANDPA’S BRIBE PAYS OFF Jared Young’s baseball career started with quarters for big hits PAGE 11
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No helipad planned for hospital
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
The new surgical tower proposed for University Hospital of Northern B.C. will create the region’s first cardiac unit and expanded mental health/addictions treatment and surgical capacity.
But the $600-700 million project will not include a rooftop hospital helipad that would allow the direct transfer of medevac patients brought from other healthcare facilities or accident scenes.
“We are going to be assessing the site for a helipad and looking at the best place to put one, but it’s not part of this project,” said Steve Raper, vice-president of communications and public affairs for the Northern Health Authority. “It’s not part of this current business case for the tower at this point.”
Prince George is the only major city in B.C. which lacks a facility to land helicopters at its hospital.
“It’s not part of the business case for the surgical tower but that doesn’t mean it’s not a priority for us to assess as to where we might be able to do this, whether on the site or in proximal location to the site,” said Raper. “We are going to be going through the process of looking at where we can put one, both temporary and potentially permanent.”
Hospitals in Vancouver, New Westminster, Campbell River, Comox Valley, Kelowna and Kamloops all have rooftop helipads – among 24 hospitals in the province
that have the ability to land helicopters on-site, day or night.
The helipad at the new surgical tower that opened in March at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops allowed for the closure of an existing helipad adjacent to the main hospital building.
The new surgical tower in Prince George will be built opposite the main building at UHNBC on the Edmonton Street property now occupied by the Northern Interior Health Unit.
Demolition of that building will begin once construction of a five-storey hospital parking lot on Lethbridge Street is completed, sometime in the early summer of 2025.
The tower will add 99 new beds, expanding bed capacity to 315 for UHNBC, the only referring hospital in the northern half of the province.
The existing facility opened in 1958 as Prince George Regional Hospital and it was expanded in 1978 and 2003.
An existing helipad in the northeast parking lot was closed when the hospital built over that site during the 2003 expansion to allow for construction of a new emergency ward.
One potential future helipad site is the existing BCEHS ambulance station near the hospital on 15th Avenue. In November, BCEHS announced the province will fund a $14.7 million project to build a multi-purpose ambulance facility in the former Greyhound bus terminal on Vancouver Street.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
BCEHS helicopter flight paramedics Brian McNamara, left, and Cole Shaver stand in front of the Bell 412 helicopter that takes them to sick and injured patients all over north-central B.C.
Hospital should have helipad, mayor says
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
When Prince George Mayor Simon Yu thinks to the not-so-distant future, he sees considerable growth coming to the city in its role as the service hub for a number of large-scale industrial projects.
“The key thing is we anticipate all the activities after 2025,” Yu said. “We are talking about another big mine 60 kilometres north. We are talking about LNG facilities switching on and we are talking about all the industrial mining activities surrounding Prince George, and these activities will require emergency medevacs. We are not getting less industrial activities, we are getting more.”
On those days when the life of a sick or injured patient depends on them getting the right medical care promptly, Yu says the city has to be prepared by providing a place at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. for an air ambulance helicopter to land.
But there is no hospital helipad in Prince George and medevac helicopters have to land at the airport. Yu says it’s not too late for Northern Health to reconsider its decision to exclude a rooftop helipad from the hospital’s business plan for a new surgical tower.
“This hospital is the regional trauma centre and how do we tie in with our city and region’s 9-1-1 program
when this helipad is not there, it doesn’t make sense,” he said. ‘When our firefighters go to put out a fire in this region and people get hurt, what do you want them to do? You want them to go back and forth (from the airport to the hospital)? It might be the difference between life and death.”
Patients brought to the airport from scene calls or inter-facility transfers in the region are loaded into a ground ambulance for the 14.6 kilometre trip to the hospital, which can take anywhere from 15-25 minutes,
Community Update
North
depending on traffic and weather/road conditions.
Prince George is the only major city in the province which lacks a hospital helipad and Yu says that has to change.
“Emergency hospital acute care is basic for a city to grow,” he said. ”You need certain things to live and if it’s not there we’re sending the wrong signal to the region as well as to all the people who look to Prince George as a place to raise their families.”
The province is adding a new fleet of seven Leonardo AW 169 twin-engine medevac helicopters to begin service in the fall, including one in Prince George. It will replace the Bell 412 that B.C. Emergency Health Services has operated at Prince George Airport since December 2021.
“We need to get ready because if there’s a fire near the city, which is going to happen, there are going to be more fires and more emergencies and we need a hospital that can anticipate these things,” said Yu.
It’s anticipated construction of the new tower won’t begin until July 2025 and Yu says there’s still time before the procurement stage for Northern Health to ultimately decide on how it will incorporate medevac helicopter service to the hospital site.
“If they have a different plan, let us know what that is,” said Yu.
WE VALUE BC
If you’re among BC’s approximately 2 million property owners, you should receive your 2024 property assessment in the mail early in January If you haven’t, call us toll-free at 1-866-valueBC Access and compare property assessment information using our free assessment search service at bcassessment.ca
The 2024 assessments are based on market value as of July 1, 2023.
If you have questions or want more information, contact us at 1-866-valueBC or online at bcassessment.ca
For more property information and assessment highlights, visit bcassessment ca
The deadline to file an appeal for your assessment is January 31, 2024
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Mayor Simon Yu in his office at city hall.
Property assessments down slightly
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Homeowners in Prince George and North Central B.C. can expect to receive their 2024 property assessments in the mail in the next few days, which reflect market value as of July 1, 2023.
According to BC Assessment, the typical value of single-family homes in the city for 2024 is $438,000, which is a drop of three per cent when compared to $450,000 in 2023.
Strata residential properties, which include condominiums and townhouses, saw an increase of about one
per cent as the 2024 assessed value is $252,000, up from $249,000.
“Most North Central home owners can generally expect to see assessment changes in the range of about -10% to +10% when they receive their notices in early January, but with some exceptions depending on the community,” said North Central BC Deputy Assessor Teria Penner.
“Compared to previous years, the region’s real estate market has mostly softened and that is reflected with the 2024 property assessments.”
Overall, North Central BC’s total assessments increased from about $90.4 billion to over $95.2 billion
this year.
A total of about $1.72 billion of the region’s updated assessments is from new construction, subdivisions and the rezoning of properties.
The North Central BC region encompasses approximately 70% of the province, stretching east to the Alberta border, north to the Yukon border, and west to Bella Coola including Haida Gwaii and to the south, just north of Clinton.
BC Assessment’s website at bcassessment.ca includes more details about 2024 assessments, property information and trends such as lists of 2024’s top valued residential properties across the province (see below).
Top 10 most valuable homes in Prince George
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
A property in Moberly Lake near Dawson Creek is the highest-valued property in north-central B.C., according to the latest information from BC Assessment. On top of releasing yearly property
assessment values this week (see above), BC Assessment has also released its list of the top 100 valued properties in the north central region.
Located at 6653 Lakeshore Drive in Moberly Lake, the property that topped the 2023 list is valued at $4.4 million, a 17 per cent increase from last year.
The property was also at the top of the list in 2022, valued at $3.7 million.
The three top valued residential properties in the north central region include the property at Moberly Lake, a $3,252,000 residential property in Prince George and a $3,089,000 rural property in Williams Lake.
Here is the full list of the top 10 homes in Prince George:
7765 St. Dennis Place – $ 3.252 million single-family property
4205 Cowart Road – $2.997 million acreage
3985 Eva Place – $2.71 million single-family property
2703 East Austin Road – $2.538 million acreage
2253 Sadler Drive – $2.04 million single-family property
9289 North Nechako Road – $2 million single-family property
4155 Dollard Road – $1.92 million acreage
‘That’s the top of the list’
Continued from page 1
Stephanie told Orr how the Lefebvres got in touch with his fan club and mentioned they were both Montreal Canadiens fans.
“It took us awhile to beat the Canadiens, they were always good,” said the 75-year-old Orr.
“But you did it, Bobby,” replied Owen.
He asked Jim if he had ever been a hockey player and he said he hadn’t, he was just a fan. Orr promised he would send him one of his books and also gave them the option of a 16 X 20 or 8 X 10 print of his famous goal, which he would put in the mail the next day. Owen said the smaller photo would be fine and he’s since received an autographed copy of his latest book.
After the call, Stephanie asked her dad what he thought of his conversation with the hockey legend.
“That’s top of the list,” he said.
Jim and his wife Lynda moved to Prince George from Yorkton, Sask., in 1969, when the city in the midst of a building boom, spurred by construction of the pulp mills. Jim got a job working in The Bay warehouse downtown, while Lynda was hired as food supervisor for the kitchen at Prince George Regional Hospital. Their two daughters were born at that hospital and lived in Prince George until 1987, they were six and eight, when the family moved to Abbotsford.
Louise could see in her friend’s face what that short call meant to him.
“He teared up,” she said. “When he saw Bobby Orr, what a lifter. I could just see the strength and the regaining of life. He was really touched.
“Bobby was very gracious. What a gentleman.”
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Former Prince George resident Jim Owen and his daughter Stephanie speak with Bobby Orr.
Province should stop clearcutting, MLA says
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Mike Morris says it’s time B.C. stopped clearcutting. After six decades of chopping down wide swaths of forest as the most economical and profitable method for forest harvesters, the Prince George-Mackenzie BC United MLA says the province has to change its management practices to restore the health of forests and decrease the likelihood of disastrous floods.
“We’re going to have a forest sector, no question about it, we’ve got 20 million hectares of managed coniferous forest that we planted over the years since we started clearcutting in 1966 and they all need thinning, so pull the plug on clearcut forestry right now,” he said. “Let’s start thinning these plantations and we’ll get 2X4s and out of them and maybe 2X6s and pulpwood, but industry completely needs to change their business model.”
Rather than focusing just on turning trees into lumber, Morris says foresters have to think about value-added products they can produce from smaller-dimension timber and consider what they can do to stimulate biodiversity and retain the value of forests for protecting watersheds and mitigating the effects of climate change.” He says a shift to selective logging and thinning will require a more labour-intensive investment in the tools
of the trade that forest companies will require.
“They won’t be able to use these big giant bunchers that go in and just clear the bush down, they’re going to have to reinvent themselves with machines they use in Sweden,” said Morris. “Instead of buying a million-dollar feller-buncher, you’re going to buy a $200,000 machine that can go in between the trees and select-log. You’re going to be putting more people to work, so your labour costs will be higher, but I think we could have triple the number of people working in the forests if we went to that kind of a model.”
2023 was the worst wildfire season on record with more than 75,000 square-kilometres burned. In B.C., the four worst fire seasons on record – 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2023 – have occurred over the past seven years. The effects of fires and beetle infestations have diminished forest supply to the point where mills are closing due to a lack of economically-available fibre.
To revitalize the industry, Morris is calling for radical changes to forest management policies. He admits that prospect probably doesn’t sit well with third-generation forest executives whose family businesses have thrived for decades under the clearcut model, but they will have no choice but to adapt.
“We are in so much trouble from a forestry perspective in the province, it needs to be completely revamped,”
said Morris. “The end result is we’re out of harvestable wood under the current business model. We’ve exhausted our timber supply in the province.
“A lot of people are pointing fingers and saying I’m anti-forestry. I’m not anti-forestry. I’m anti-forestry with the way we’ve been doing it for the last number of years, but if we can base it on an ecological model and do it so that we recognize all the values of forest I think we can get there and get the balance right at the end of the day.”
Morris has been following research conducted by UBC forestry professor Younes Alila, which attributes extreme flooding in the southern Interior northwest of Kamloops to clearcutting and loss of forest ground cover. Alila’s hydrology reports suggest that larger intact watersheds decrease the risk of flooding intensity and frequency and that clearcutting leads to more snow reaching the ground and less shade, resulting in faster melting and larger floods.
“He was a civil engineer and he found forestry was using a completely different way of determining hydrological impacts on forestry landscape than what they were taught in engineering school,” said Morris. “Forestry said there was no impact to the land base if we cut the trees down and the engineering (studies) said there’s a significant effect to the hydrological integrity of the land base.”
Big crowd for polar dip
A record 216 participants, including a family visiting from Mexico, took part in the 23rd annual New Year’s Day polar bear dip at Ness Lake Bible Camp.
The dippers raised $27,735.97, with the top fundraisers being Carol and Mark
Stofer with $10,400, Prince George city councillor Trudy Klassen with $3,075 and Julianna Deweerd with $1,000.
Money raised makes camp possible for families who would otherwise not be able to afford it.
School district hires new superintendent
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
School District No. 57 (SD57) has finally hired a new superintendent. Jameel N. Aziz will start the position on March 25.
Aziz joins the school district from Yellowknife Education District No. 1 in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, where he was Superintendent of Schools and CEO.
Prior to that, he held several roles in education, including more recently, Assistant Superintendent of Schools for School District 58 in Nicola Similkameen, B.C.,
Principal of Ecole South Sa-Hali Elementary School in Kamloops, and Principal of Kamloops Open Online Learning.
“We are delighted to welcome Mr. Aziz to the school district, and we know that he will have a positive and long-lasting impact on our education system,” said Craig Brennan, Board of Education chair of SD57.
Aziz graduated from the University of Victoria in 2002 with a Masters of Education, and completed the Instructional Rounds Program at Harvard University in 2013.
He graduated from the University of Winnipeg in 1989 with a Bachelor of
Education, majoring in Physical Education and English, following his Bachelor of Arts in 1986.
An active member of the community, he is a board member of United Way BC and former regional chairperson, past president and board chair of United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo among his many voluntary roles over the past nearly two decades.
In September the board hired a Vancouver company called Boyden Executive Search firm to support the recruitment search for a new Superintendent.
Aziz will be the eighth superintendent that SD57 has hired in eight years.
Since Brian Pepper resigned in 2015, six others have held the position: Sharon Cairns interim from 2015-2016, Marilyn Marquis-Forster from 2016-2019, Rod Allen interim in 2019, Anita Richardson from 2019-20, Cindy Heitman from 202123, and Pam Spooner interim in 2023.
Spooner served as Acting Superintendent following the removal of former superintendent Cindy Heitman in March, which triggered the resignations of former trustees Gillian Burnett and Betty Bekkering.
In July Heitman was named the new president of CNC and began the position in November.
Helipad low priority next to other health needs
The planned expansion of University Hospital of Northern B.C. in Prince George will have the region’s first cardiac unit, as well as expanded mental health/addictions treatment and surgical capacity.
What it won’t have is a rooftop helipad to more quickly transfer medivac patients brought from other healthcare facilities or accident scenes.
And that’s a good thing.
Prince George is the only major city in B.C. that lacks a facility to land helicopters at its hospital. So what?
“Everybody else has a helipad so we should have one to” isn’t a business case.
Prince George hasn’t had an on-site hospital helipad since the one in the northeast parking lot was built over for lack of use during a 2003 expansion for a new emergency ward.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
LEST WE FORGET, THEY FORGOT
Lest we forget, on Oct. 30, city council forgot about the young people we sent to war and remembering those that gave the ultimate sacrifice so we can be free.
City council declined a request from the local legion to help support Remembrance Day. The legion requested $18,000, request denied, because of a new policy and not sufficient funds on hand.
What a crock that is. This council can waste more than that in a day. (Example: approving $950,000 for the sound system at CN Centre). There is provision to circumvent the intent of the policy. The request was deferred to Nov. 20. A private citizen graciously donated the money needed.
Talk about council dodging the bullet. Some council members lumped the Legion into the same category as
Has the lack of a helipad been missed much in the last 20 years? Not really.
And wouldn’t most local and area residents prefer the cost of a rooftop helipad to go towards faster care in emergency wards and more hospital beds instead?
The vast majority of patients flown into the Prince George airport by air ambulance and then transferred to UHNBC by ground ambulance are transfers from other hospitals and health centres in central and northern B.C. Those patients are stable enough to travel for additional care in Prince George. An hour or two in an air ambulance sure beats six or more hours in a ground ambulance on a bumpy, windy regional highway.
Having a hospital helipad would further shorten that journey by the 20 to 30 minutes it takes to transfer an air ambulance patient from the Prince George airport to UHNBC.
But does that time saving really matter?
The most important time for the seriously injured victim of a highway crash or an accident in a remote, isolated community or workplace in north-central B.C. are in the first minutes. Industrial first aid at the scene and emergency care at a smaller hospital and health centre to stabilize a patient are the critical life-and-death moments.
The length of time it takes to move them to Prince George or Vancouver? Not so much.
The greatest need in Northern Health is more healthcare professionals based in more communities across the region.
That would save more lives and improve health outcomes far more than a helipad on top of the hospital in Prince George ever could.
other organizations seeking financial aid.
Lest we forget, some councillors have forgotten the sacrifices made so they can speak freely, voicing their views on the unimportance the Legion is. Some councillors believe they already surpassed the requirements to support the Legion.
A councillor believes that Remembrance Day is not a community event but just a Legion event.
A councillor suggested the Legion look for other sources, as other organizations may need council’s support. Same councillor suggested that staff review to see if the Legion is the right fit for us.
Lest we forget, four members of council supported the Legion. They realized the importance to remember the fallen, celebrating those the Legion represents.
Is not supporting the Legion just one more step closer
to wokeism, cancelling history, culture, or anything else this ideology does not agree with?
Lest we forget, every month we celebrate events. Politicians celebrate these days with vigor because it is politically correct. Remembrance Day has fewer and fewer people to carry the torch.
A most important day, remembering those of whom, sacrificed themselves, so as we can stand free. The answer is, our forefathers and foremothers sacrificed their lives, so we are free of tyranny and oppression.
On Nov. 11, for two minutes, for the sake of being free, this should be enough for the city councillors to support the Legion without question. Perhaps there are council members that should consider resigning, for they seem to have truly forgotten the act of remembrance.
M. Mahoney, Prince George
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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Neil Godbout is the Citizen’s editor.
Deurbanizing would be better for everyone
As soon as the consumerist hangover of Christmas set in, Nature dropped a big paper proposing we abandon economic growth.
The timing almost had us hoodwinked but the big question remains: Is “degrowth” just a recipe for recession and a centrally-planned society of urban populations stuck in 15-minute cities on Universal Basic Income being fed insects and precision-fermented food?
It seems that’s what the mainstream “degrowth” philosophy is selling us, from George Mombiot’s book Regenesis to the suggestion in the Nature paper that city dwellers wouldn’t need to drive as much. Meanwhile, I guess, a small percentage of us will tend the techno-modernist Roundup-ready GMO landscapes of automated mega-farms.
I think they’ve got it wrong.
Degrowth should be about the decentralization of our economy and a return to rural living.
Instead of bigger farms and more
centralized production, we need the opposite.
We need to go back to the smaller mills, smaller farms, smaller food processing plants, and the smaller towns. We need to localize the basics of what we need to survive.
Chris Smaje has written extensively on the future of agrarian self-reliance. He’s well worth a read.
Of course this is incredibly inefficient.
But what if, like how our local supermills destroyed thousands of mill jobs in the sawmill industry, the main achievement of efficiency is simply to transfer wealth to the urban financiers and away from rural labour?
Generally speaking, smaller and more spread-out producers and farms may be less efficient, and worse for the GDP than a monocrop mega-farm. But there would be more competition, more resiliency, more choice, and probably better food, more biodiverse landscapes, and a more equitable society.
In other words, it might improve our quality of life and the environment. But we might get dirty fingernails.
If we look at de-growth as economic decentralization, as a means to break up the monopolies and the growing feudalist corporate land holdings, it’s not that radical of an idea.
It’s a democratic principle that our existing anti-trust laws were designed to protect but haven’t.
Another maxim of the modern degrowth philosophy that I don’t agree with is this idea that herding everyone into cities will help nature.
As long as we have a know-nothing corporate/academic/government elite telling us how to manage the landbase that they know nothing about, those rural communities will remain the only thing that stands in the way of their incompetence.
When university forestry departments tell government and corporations spraying and brushing cutblocks to kill the fire-resistant broadleaf forests moose and
beaver depend on is a great idea, who complains about it? The big-city animal rights and environmental groups? Not really.
Trappers and ranchers complain about it.
When I read about the ecological breakdown of the Amazon, it’s the Indigenous people on the land who have the most credibility.
And when I read about big-ag pollution in Iowa and Missouri, it’s the diverse small farms and rural communities fighting it.
Not urban populations. Not the managerial elite.
Hollowing out rural communities doesn’t get you healthier ecosystems. Hollowing out the rural population base creates opportunities for destructive corporate farming, forestry, and simplified landscapes.
Getting us back out onto the land could help change that.
James Steidle is a Prince George writer.
The sky isn’t falling on Canada’s national debt
It is awkward when facts get in the way of fantasy.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is releasing a series of videos under the moniker “Debtonation”. I presume the name is meant to imply the whole country’s economy is about to blow up. He claims Canada has racked up $10 trillion in debt. More than three times our annual GDP. A staggering sum. Guaranteed to scare anyone into thinking we are in serious trouble.
Of course, Poilievre would like us to believe he will be the white knight saving us from the dastardly debt monster and
ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS
Prime Minister Trudeau. Except, of course, it is not really the whole truth. The $10 trillion represents all of the debt in the country – personal, corporate, and government. And he conveniently ignores the fact our net personal and corporate assets more than cover their portion of the pie.
Still the Canadian government net debt is substantial. But only two thirds of it lies with the federal government. However, in 2022 – the last year for which we have complete numbers – the federal component decreased by $31.7 billion to $876.4 billion, according to StatsCan.
On January 4, the BC Alzheimer’s Society flag was raised at City Hall by Mayor Simon Yu and myself. Based on 2022 statistics, I am among 660,000 Canadians living with dementia. By 2050, that number will be nearly 1 million. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia. Sixty to 70 % of people living with dementia are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The theme
Yes, decreased. We owe less now than at the beginning of 2022. The provincial, territorial, and local government debt decreased by $49.1 billion to $479.6 billion. Again, a decrease.
I am not saying the national debt isn’t a large sum of money. But we are doing well compared to other countries – around 20% of the GDP versus 118 percent south of the border. Indeed, we are doing better than all of the other G7 countries.
The numbers aren’t as rosy on the personal or corporate side of the equation but we are still not doing as bad as many other economies.
and goal of this month is “Live Life To the Fullest.”
Living life to the fullest looks different for everyone. Since my diagnosis in 2022, I have, with the support and love of my family and friends, taken part in a number of community volunteer activities, athletic pursuits, travel and artistic projects. Based alone on that staggering number of 660,000, I am not unique.
Based on studies from the Mayo Clinic, the average life span after diagnosis is between three and nine years,
For someone trying to make ends meet – to pay the rent, the utilities, and put food on the table – things can be a hard struggle. But rather than blaming Trudeau for everything, let’s consider where the real issue may lie.
Last week, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives released the salary data for the top 100 CEOs in Canada. They averaged $14.9 million or 246 times the average worker’s wage. Perhaps, if workers wages had kept pace with corporate profits, we would be better off.
Todd Whitcombe is a chemistry professor at the University of Northern B.C.
with a significant number of people living well over 20 years. On the positive side, physical exercise, mental exercise (puzzles, crosswords, etc) and establishing routine have been shown to slow the progression. Research and improvements in medications offer positive preliminary results and, importantly, hope for the future. I don’t know what lies ahead for me and my family, but I am hopeful.
Brian Stanley, Prince George
City records driest year in a century
HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff
Prince George had a few record setting days in December, but the month itself was not record setting weather wise.
However, 2023 was the driest year on record the city has seen since 1918.
The mean temperature in Prince George at the airport was -1.2 C and the normal mean temperature for the month of December is -7.2 C.
That makes it the 11th warmest December on record, with the records going back to 1912.
Record setting days included Dec 30 which saw a temperature of 9.7 C, breaking the 9.4 C record set in 1926 and Dec 28 at 8.7 C, broke a record of 7.8 C set in 1919.
Neither of these days was the hottest December day ever recorded in the area, which was 12.8 degrees also in 1919.
“It probably felt even warmer than that but we did have a little bit of cooler air early in December so it helped us alleviate things to a certain degree,” said Brian Proctor, meteorologist with Environment Canada.
“It terms of precipitation it was a very interesting month.”
He said Prince George actually ended up with a wetter than normal December with the airport reporting 57.7 millimetres
of total precipitation, which includes snow and rain together.
The normal would be 43.9 millimetres.
However, despite a wet December it was still an incredibly dry year for the city and the region.
“We had a very interesting, very dry, very problematic year, if you want to put it that way,” said Proctor.
The annual mean temperature at the airport was 5.5 C and normal mean
of Meeting
The Board of Directors start 2024 budget deliberations on Wednesday January 24, 2024 at 1:00 pm. The Committee of the Whole agenda with budget details will be available at rdffg ca by January 18 Individuals or organizations can comment on this budget by:
• addressing the Board of Directors in person at the January 24 meeting (register at 250-960-4444 or 1-800-667-1959)
• emailing budget@rdffg bc ca Registrations or emailed comments must be received by Tuesday January 23 at 12:00 pm
temperature annually is 4.3 C so it was 1.2 C above normal which makes it the fourth warmest year on record for Prince George.
“But of real interest is the precipitation,” said Proctor.
A normal amount of precipitation on an annual basis at the airport is 594.9 millimetres, he explained, but 2023 recorded only 342.3 millimetres which is the driest on the period of record going back to 1918.
“And many stations the further north you went in the interior of the province and towards the northeast, the drier it was and the warmer it was.”
He said this explains why the province had such a problematic forest fire season, and coming into the fall and winter much of the area continues to face a drought situation.
Despite more precipitation in the month of December, it was still been relatively warm.
Proctor said it was not enough to start rebuilding snow packs, so drought is an ongoing concern.
“For Prince George typically this time of year, our maximum temperatures should be somewhere around daytime highs of -6 C, overnight lows, sort of -14 C,” said Proctor.
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Lack of rain this year and near-record low river levels have exposed a vast area at the confluence of the Nechako and Fraser rivers near downtown Prince George.
Quarter bribe sparks baseball career
TED CLARKE Citizen staff
Long before Jared Young became a major league baseball player the signs were there that the kid from Prince George was way ahead of his time.
You just had to watch him swing the bat to know he was something special.
He proved it time after time as a youngster before his dad’s men’s league games when he stood in the batter’s box and clobbered pitched balls deep into the outfield while his grandfather Lyle Young proudly took it all in.
In his first T-ball game at Peterson Park, barely five years old, Jared walked up the plate and from behind the backstop Lyle offered his grandson some incentive to make contact.
“Twenty-five cents if you hit the fence,” he said.
“Whack, it went all the way to the fence, and that caught on with the big kids (on older brother Tanner’s team). They expected to get 25 cents if they hit it that far. I always carried two-bits with me.”
The following year, Jared was playing a game at Volunteer Park and the umpire, one of the fathers, decided to get behind the plate without wearing the pads. That didn’t seem like a problem when the first kid went to pitch and could barely get it as far as the plate. Jared was called in to replace him on the mound and Lyle said he’d pay him another quarter if he hit the catcher’s mitt with his pitch.
“The first pitch was a bloody bullet,” said Lyle. “The batter backed off, the catcher flinched and the umpire, he jumped five feet in the air and I thought
‘Holy crap, the kid did it again.’”
At six years old Jared was throwing darts and crushing the ball, traits he’s maintained throughout his career. His father and Little League coach Randy Young, a former North Idaho College/ Whitman College catcher, also coached Jared’s six-years-older brother Tanner. Jared was the bat boy on those teams and spent his summers on the provincial tournament trail and on the practice
field trying to keep up to the older kids. He idolized Tanner and his will to excel in sports, just like Tanner did, and that made Jared that much better than most kids his age.
“I always thought, this kid’s going to go a long way,” said Lyle.
A year after Jared was born, Lyle’s wife Loretta died at age 56 of progressive supranuclear palsy. Lyle got in the habit of following the team in his trailer for family baseball roadtrips together. Watching his grandsons play their games and learn life’s lessons on the ball diamond helped him get over his loss.
“It was really hard on my dad, he hung out with me and my kids and that helped him get through a lot, because he loves those boys,” said Randy. “It’s a pretty special bond they have, dad was always there to take the kids whenever they needed to go to - baseball, basketball, hockey - he was a very involved grandparent.”
Every summer, starting when Jared was in Little League, Lyle and his son Jim would load up the trailer and follow Jared around the province to his tournaments and once he made the minor leagues they’d book flights to watch him play. But in recent years, Lyle’s health issues ruled out travel south of the border and he’s the only family member yet to see Jared play a triple-A or major league game.
For Lyle, there’s one road trip that stands out above all the rest.
In 2018, Jared was chosen as the Cubs’ Minor League Player of the Year and as one of the perks, he and his family were flown to Chicago as weekend guests of the team. Jared was introduced to the Wrigley Field crowd in a pre-game
ceremony and they were treated to dinner in a five-star restaurant close to their swanky hotel.
“That field, I’ll tell you, it’s hallowed ground,” he said. “Jared is so quiet and he wanted the family members to behave themselves. I was kind of a wanderer around Wrigley Field, inspecting the dugouts and all that, and he was saying, ‘Grandpa, get back here.’”
Born during the Great Depression in 1934, Lyle grew up on a dairy farm with his parents and 12 siblings near Strasburg, Sask., 50 kilometres north of Regina, and he didn’t play baseball. His family didn’t have the time or the money for that, but they did what they could to improvise. His older brother found a hard rubber ball and they used a piece of pliable leather and sewed it up to make a ball and stuffed horsehair into another piece of cowhide to make a glove.
“We used the side of the barn as a backstop and he pitched to me overhand,” Lyle said. ”He threw that thing hard, I don’t know why I didn’t get killed.” Lyle turns 90 on April 23 and he’s looking forward to next season watching Jared try to earn an everyday position with the St. Louis Cardinals, who picked him up on waivers.
Lyle has an inoperable blockage in his carotid artery, which has led to a couple of strokes, and he has some issues with his balance and mobility that keep him grounded close to home but his mind is still sharp. He’s doesn’t think he’ll ever get to see Jared play a major league game live but he won’t miss streaming his games on the internet.
“I’m so proud of him. I watch every game. It’s euphoria,” he said.
CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO
Lyle Young holds a Chicago Cubs bat engraved with the name of his grandson Jared Young.
HOROSCOPES
ARIES
If you’re still unsure about your career path, you’ll finally have a revelation that will guide you in the right direction. Someone close to you will need your support, requiring some form of mutual aid on your part.
TAURUS
The holidays are over, and it’s time to get back to routine. You’ll manage to maintain a dynamic social life, even if it’s just on social media. You must also get some rest.
GEMINI
In response to professional changes, you’ll need to utilize your unique skills to achieve exceptional results. At home, you’ll coordinate a major cleanup with your entire family
CANCER
You’ll feel the need to go on holiday and won’t hesitate to go solo or with your partner to an exotic location or charming chalet with a roaring fire. You’ll be delighted to reignite your social life.
LEO
Nothing is more important than your health. Your doctor will finally identify the source of your discomfort and suggest an appropriate treatment, enabling you to recover quickly Have faith in their expertise.
VIRGO
At work or in other aspects of your life, you’ll have to negotiate or mediate You’ll find solutions to overcome every obstacle, from employee disputes to unhappy customers.
LIBRA
Paperwork, emails and calls are piling up. You’ll double down to make up for lost time. You’ll work hard to maintain a clean and tidy home.
SCORPIO
You’ll receive congratulations for various reasons. You could be admired after a brilliant success. You’ll have plenty to be proud of. With this assurance, you can undertake any project.
SAGITTARIUS
You didn’t get a chance to get together with all your loved ones over the holidays, but now’s your chance! You’ll perform remarkably well at work and home. No matter how hard you try, some people will be difficult to please.
CAPRICORN
You’re craving conversation. Whether telling stories about your family or the holidays, words will flow easily At work, your remarkable sociability will enable you to make fruitful transactions.
AQUARIUS
A bit more refinement is needed. You’ll receive an unexpected promotion. However, you’ll feel stressed, fatigued and confused at times.
PISCES
You’ll be on the move and attract a lot of attention. People will likely notice you for various reasons. You’ll be creative or appreciate some form of art, if only for the sake of contemplation.
MAYOH Stephen, born in Vancouver, BC, on Jul 4, 1963, passed away peacefully on Dec 30, 2023, at the age of 60, surrounded by his family at St. Paul’s Hospital. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, and uncle. He is survived and deeply missed by his loving wife Cheryl Mayoh (nee Skeet) of 38 years, son Jordan, daughter Chantal, brothers John (Dianne), Ray, sisters Ann, Linda, Donna, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Dorothy and William. A memorial service will be held on Jan 13, 2024, at 11:00 am, at Prince George Pentecostal Church (497 Ospika Blvd). In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Paul’s Foundation (helpstpauls.com) are appreciated. Special thanks to the caring doctors and nurses at St. Paul’s Hospital for their excellent care. The Heart Centre at St. Paul’s Hospital, a teaching hospital, is British Columbia’s only comprehensive referral center for patients with heart disease.
REMEMBRANCES
Diane Yorston (Lloyd)
January 9, 1953 – December 31, 2023
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Diane Yorston.
She passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, shortly before her 71st birthday.
She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of nearly 50 years, Jim; her sons Ryan (Amanda), Jamie (Amy); her daughter Lacey (James); grandchildren Brooks, Knox, Nolah, Alex, Allie, Oisin and another blessing on the way; sisters Cheryl (Jim), Donna (Mike), Linda (Abbie), April (Ken); brother Randy (Joyce); sister-in-law Debbie; many nieces and nephews and all who met her.
Diane is reunited with parents Merl and Vera, brother Brian and nephew Matthew.
Thank you for all the support from family and friends over this difficult time.
The family would also like to thank the doctors and nurses at UHNBC.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, January 11th 2024 at the PG Golf & Curling Club from 1-4 pm
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Kidney Foundation.
Trelle A.
January 8, 1930 - December 28, 2023
Trelle passed away peacefully, at home. He was predeceased by his wife, Allison, in 2014.
Left to remember him are his daughter Jeanie (Allan), and son Monty (Maria), and three grandchildren: Alexander (Karen), Spencer (Lauren), and Taylor (Logan), whom he cherished.
Trelle lived in many places growing up but he was always a Kootenay boy at heart. He attended UBC to study architecture and there met Allison. They married in 1953, and in 1954 ventured north to Prince George “for a year”. They stayed for their entire married life and raised their family there.
Trelle had many interests and hobbies and received several awards and accolades for his pottery, philately, and historical writing. Locally, these include the Jeanne Clarke Local History award (4 times), Citizen of the Year, and most recently, the Freedom of the City Award, by which he was truly humbled.
Trelle also leaves a circle of devoted friends and caring neighbours. No service by request. If desired, in keeping with Trelle’s devotion to Prince George, please consider a donation (“in memory of Trelle Morrow”) to the Community Foundation 102 - 1584 7th Avenue, Prince George, B.C. V2L 3P4
MORROW,
Stephen Mayoh
Jul 4, 1963 - Dec 30, 2023
Steve Michael Boshier
January 21, 1948 –December 15, 2023
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Steve Boshier who passed away peacefully on December 15, 2023 at the age of 75.
Steve is survived by his loving wife Anna; son Darren; daughters Nicole (Dave) and Michelle; 11 grandchildren Mitchel (Hayley), Evan (Caitlyn), Alex, Anna, Kyla (Mika), Leigh, Brett, Jordan, Taylor, Talon and Silas; and brother-in-law Mario.
He is predeceased by his mother Bessie; father Stanley; and brothers Stanley and Patrick.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rotary Hospice House would be greatly appreciated.
A service will be held on Monday January 15, 2024 at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church in Prince George. A continued celebration of Steve’s life will follow the service in the reception hall at First Baptist Church.
Robert (Bob) Croft
1943-2023
Robert (Bob) Croft passed away December 13, 2023. Bob was born in Cadomin, AB on January 9, 1943. He spent his childhood in both Cadomin and Vancouver before moving to Prince George, where he lived the majority of his life. Bob took pride and had a full-filling career as an electrician with Houle Electric. This included everything from hands-on work, along with estimating and managing projects throughout Northern BC.
Bob loved gardening and growing food, along with spending time at the cabin at Bednesti lake. We would like to Thank the entire team at both Evergreen complex care and Westminster House in White Rock for their care and support during Dad’s final years. Bob was predeceased by his Wife Joy Croft (2019) and leaves behind 3 Sons, Rob Croft (Sandy), Scott Croft (Sarah), Dan Croft along with Grandchildren (Isaac and Julia).
REMEMBRANCES
Elizabeth “Jane” Schepp nee Beinder
Elizabeth “Jane” Schepp nee Beinder passed away at the age of 85 on December 28, 2023 in Prince George, BC.
Jane was predeceased by her brother Leo and parents Frank and Connie Beinder. They emigrated from England in 1947 and settled in Rossland, BC. She would like to be remembered as the psychic.
Jane worked as a secretary in Calgary and in BC school districts.
Jane enjoyed skiing, her motorcycle, nature and animals. She also enjoyed crafts, crosswords, sewing, reading and colouring.
Jane was a beloved friend to many and her mission in life was in helping people. She is survived by her sister-in-law Judy Beinder and family in Saanich, BC.
Donations may be made to the Prince George SPCA.
Leonard (Keith) McLachlan
1935-2023
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard (Keith) McLachlan on December 27, 2023, in Prince George, BC. Keith was born on May 25, 1935, to Adeline and Leonard McLachlan in Armley, SK. He was one of 7 children.
For many years, Keith worked in the beautiful back country as a heavy equipment operator. He later owned his own construction company and worked primarily with his backhoe. His love of his work inspired his retirement of making detailed wood versions of the machinery he operated through his career.
He is survived by his wife Margaret of 68 years, 4 children, 7 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and numerous friends & family.
Heartfelt thanks to family, friends, Dr. Tammy Attia and all of the healthcare workers at UHNBC.
Keith will be remembered for his great sense of humor and his hard work ethic.
Memorial celebration was held January 4, 2024, in Prince George, BC.
REMEMBRANCES
Obituaries Obituaries
DUCHSCHERER, Henry R.
August 5, 1936 - December 26, 2023
It is with deep sadness that the Duchscherer and Pears families announce the passing of Henry Ralph Duchscherer on December 26, 2023. Henry is survived by his children, Matt (Diana) Duchscherer and Dori (Dan) Pears; grandchildren Paige, Lucas, Cameron, Noah, and Ben; as well as his sisters Mary and Madeline; and brother Tony. Henry was born in Mistatim, Saskatchewan, August 1936, and was the youngest of ten children. He came from a hardworking farming family and carried that work ethic throughout his life. Known by many as the Chicken King for the 40+ years of owning and operating the KFC’s in Prince George and Vanderhoof. Henry enjoyed life and being with his friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in memoriam to the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, a charity dear to his heart for many years. The family would also like to extend a huge thank you to the staff at UHNBC, his family doctor, and the amazing FMU nurse Jen, who helped him pass with peace and dignity. A service was held on January 10, 2024, at Assman’s Funeral Chapel, followed by a reception at Parkhill Centre
COLE, Dave
January 24, 1944 - December 30, 2023
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dave Cole on December 30, 2023, at the age of 79. Dave is predeceased by his parents and his wife, Lael. He is survived by his children, Dylan (Belva) and Joanna (Greg); two grandchildren, Sophia and Nicholas; as well as his sisters, Pat and Gwen.
Dad made me promise not to wax poetic over his life’s accomplishments, which is exactly the kind of man he was. Quietly accomplished, remarkable and always wanting to see others shine.
Thank you to Dr. Boutcher for his compassion and diligent care and to Colleen in the office, who always made sure Dad’s needs were met.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation.
There will be no service at Dave’s request.
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
NIESKENS, Elaine Catherine
It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of Elaine Nieskens (nee Rollins) on December 28, 2023.
Elaine loved Christmas. The best gift she gave to us was having the family together for Christmas dinner, thanks to the staff at Hospice.
Elaine is survived by her loving husband of 52 years Frank, her much loved sons Jason and Jordan, sister Lynda MacInnes (Grant - deceased), niece Megan (Kevin Horodyski), great niece Cadence MacInnes and Ethen Horodyski, cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews, her Royal Bank family and many friends. We will all miss her cheerful personality and her beautiful smile.
She was very creative and designed most of her artistic craft projects especially the Christmas ones which we all have some to cherish. Elaine loved spending time with her family and friends, travelling, especially to Maui, going to the lake cabin, walking her dogs and all the camping adventures with Frank.
It is not easy to say good-bye but we have wonderful memories to cherish and she will be in our hearts forever.
Special thanks to Dr. Ahmed, Dr. Powell and staff at the PG Cancer Clinic, doctors and nurses at UHNBC and the staff at P.G. Rotary Hospice House.
If you wish to make a donation in her memory, please consider the PG Rotary Hospice Society or cancer research.
There will be a private family service.
Condolences may be offered at www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com
Celebrate the lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs and tributes
A Vanished Friend
Around the corner I have a friend In this great city that has no end; Yet days go by, and weeks rush on, And before I know it a year has gone, And I never see my old friend’s face, For life is a swift and terrible race. He knows I like him just as well As in the days when I rang his bell, And he rang mine. We were younger then, And now we are busy, tired men, Tired of playing a foolish game, Tired with trying to make a name.
“Tomorrow, I will call on Jim, Just to show that I am thinking of him.”
But tomorrow comes and tomorrow goes, And the distance between us grows and grows, Around the corner, yet miles away
“Here’s a telegram, sir,”
“Jim died today!”
And that’s what we get, and deserve in the end, Around the corner a vanished friend!
by Anders Lim
Marlene Polowyk
1948-2023
Marlene Polowyk passed away unexpectedly December 23, 2023 at home in Prince George, BC. She was born July 4, 1948 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan the daughter of Nick and Olga (nee Popenia) Polowyk. Marlene grew up on a farm near Insinger and excelled in her studies.
Later, Marlene attended the University of Saskatchewan and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her career took her to several BC communities before she settled in Prince George in 1972. She worked as a Registered Nurse for 40 years primarily in Public Health and Community Care. She dearly loved her home and community.
Marlene took a leave in her nursing career to travel around the world - a once in a lifetime experience she held close to her heart for the rest of her life. The friendships she made in Prince George truly became a second family to her and she loved hosting friends at her home for dinner or coffee. She enjoyed her time outdoors and was often found hiking or gardening.
In addition to her parents, Marlene was predeceased by her brother Dennis and sister-in-law Muriel. Marlene leaves to cherish her memory her nephews Scott (Shannon) and Kevin, niece Kristen, sister-in-law Yvonne, great-niece Charlotte, great-nephew Ethan and her aunts and uncles.
Marlene chose not to have a service and we are respecting her wishes. She will be cremated later this month and her ashes will be spread between her two homes: Prince George and Saskatchewan. In lieu of flowers or donations, those who wish to remember Marlene may raise a drink in her honour, treat themself to a desert or spend some time watching curling.
IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES
by Norma Cornett Marek
If I knew it would be the last time That I’d see you fall asleep, I would tuck you in more tightly And pray the Lord, your soul to keep.
If I knew it would be the last time that I see you walk out the door, I would give you a hug and kiss And call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time I’d hear your voice lifted up in praise, I would video tape each action and word, so I could play them back day after day.
If I knew it would be the last time, I could spare an extra minute To stop and say “I love you,” Instead of assuming you would KNOW I do.
If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day, Well I’m sure you’ll have so many more, so I can let just this one slip away.
And certainly there’s another chance
To say our “Anything I can do?”
But just in case I might be wrong, And today is all I get, I’d like to say how much I love you And I hope we never forget.
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, Young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance You get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you’re waiting for tomorrow, Why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, You’ll surely regret the day,
That you didn’t take that extra time
For a smile, a hug, or a kiss
And you were too busy to grant someone, What turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, And whisper in their ear, Tell them how much you love them
And that you’ll always hold them dear
For surely there’s always tomorrow To make up for an oversight, And we always get a second chance To make everything just right.
As you share the stories and the memories of how they lived their lives and how very much they meant, may you find comfort...
There will always be another day To say “I love you,”
Take time to say “I’m sorry,” “Please forgive me,” “Thank you,” or “It’s okay.”
And if tomorrow never comes, You’ll have no regrets about today.
Established Franchise Photography Business
Serving Northern B.C for over 35 years
Gross Revenues of $150.000 plus annually from seasonal work Lots of opportunity to expand the business. Transition support available to the right buyer Serious Enquiries Only Office 250-596-9199 Cell 250-981-1472
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Established Franchise Tax Preparation Business Mackenzieservicing and McLeod Lake area for over 30 years.
Gross Revenues of $85,000 to $90,000
Annually and Potential to expand revenues in a growing economy.
Transition support available for the right buyer.
How to write a
ad that works.
Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice offered or the job title.
• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice 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.
• 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.
• Limit abbreviations. Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.
• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.
• 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.
• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300 Writing an effective classified ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.
To place your ad call: 604-630-3300
Cabins
Compost toilet for 2 - brand new never used $1200.00 obo (250-967-4215)
Duplexes for Rent
Available immediately1749 Gorse St, 3 bdrm, full bsmt, f/s, $2000/month + utilities. (250)614-6667
1/2 DUPLEX- 2bdrmAvail immediately on the Hart Highway in Prince George, BC. 4 Appls, quiet area, responsible adults only. N/S, Ref’s req’d. Call Theresa 250962-5570
1/2 DUPLEX- 2bdrmAvail immediately on the Hart Highway in Prince George, BC. 4 Appls, quiet area, responsible adults only. N/S, Ref’s req’d. Call Theresa 250962-5570
Out Of Town
Ranch house with 9 acres irrigated pasture All Amenities Next to Eagle Point Golf (Kamloops) 985K Will carry mortgage View Realtor.ca 250-573-3346 e-mail biffsbenson@yahoo.ca
PERSONALS
$35,000 Canadian 11.26 acres manicured sub-lakeshore at Cluculz Lake, finest location by owner Only $399,000 end of Meier Rd. 604-908-0313
Legal/Public Notices
Woodlot Licence Plan Woodlot Licence 1171
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 17 of the Woodlot Planning and Practices Regulation, that a Woodlot Licence Plan has been prepared for Woodlot Licence #1171 held by Nordic Forest Ltd. This Woodlot Licence is located west and northwest of Prince George. If approved by the Ministry of Forests, this plan may apply for a term of 10 years from the date of approval.
This Woodlot Licence Plan is available for public review and comment by from December 28, 2023 to February 4, 2024. Any written comments on the plan should be mailed to:
S. M. Forrest & Associates Ltd. #100-466 2nd Avenue, Prince George, B.C., V2L 2Z7.
Please contact Scott Forrest, RPF, at 250-564-8884 to book an appointment to review and/or discuss the plan.
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.
PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE
1. Defensive nuclear weapon
Moved back and forth
One-time coach of the Cowboys
Last letter
Cause to become less intense
Genus of tree bugs
Body art
Romance novelist
Be filled with love for
Indigenous people of Mexico
Dietary supplement
Having a particular sheen or luster
Academic Bill of Rights
When you anticipate arriving
Conspiracy
City
Make vivid
Horses
Mauna __, Hawaiian volcano
Atomic #18
Shortly
A type of prejudice
Whirls
Six
Old world, new
__ Hess, oil company
Talk
Long-time NBAer Shawn
Time zone
US, Latin America, Canada belong to
Upton Sinclair
What a cow does
Cavalry-sword
Ancient Greek war
42. Not off
Begets
Cars need them
Computing architecture (abbr.) 49. Of I 50. Journalist, activist Wells 51. Takes apart
59. A place to build 60. Exclamation that denotes disgust
Supplement with difficulty
62. Very slick
Hill or rocky peak
3 unique types of DIY shelves
Do you need more shelf space? If so, here are several types of do-it-yourself shelving units that are both functional and stylish.
1. ROPE
These tiered shelves are the perfect accent piece for any home. All you need are a few planks of wood and rope of the appropriate thickness and length. Paint or stain the wood, cut the shelves to the desired size and drill two holes on each end. Then, thread your rope through each shelf to create a tiered masterpiece.
2. PEGBOARD
Purchase a large piece of fibreboard and a handful of wooden dowels from your local hardware store. Drill uniform holes into
the fibreboard, cut your wooden dowels down to size and place your shelves on top. The best part is that you can change the configuration anytime you like.
3. DRAWER
If you have an old dresser lying around, consider upcycling the drawers to create a unique shelving unit. Simply slap on a coat of paint or varnish and mount the drawers to the wall in an eye-catching arrangement.
If you need help finding the materials you need for your project, speak to the staff at your local hardware store.
Travel back in time
Artisans have been creating practical and beautiful objects from time immemorial. Some of these carefully cared for objects increase in value over the years and can become real treasures for avid collectors. Apart from enjoying the pleasures of decorating with antiques, many people like learning about the heritage and history of a culture through their collections. Here are a few tips for people who aren’t yet familiar with the fascinating and popular world of antiques.
The first thing to keep in mind is that it isn’t necessary to invest in an imposing piece of antique furniture to add cachet to your decor. Start your collection of treasures from the past by buying small pieces. Leather-bound books from the early 20th century or black and white photographs are a simple way to add a historical touch to your home without breaking the bank.
Visit a few antique dealers in your area to see which kinds of items catch your eye. Take some time and try to imagine these pieces in your home. Consult an experienced collector if you’re in any doubt about the value of an expensive item.
When you fall in love with a particular antique, it’s time to negotiate. Experts suggest making an initial offer of twothirds of the listed price. You’ll probably figure out if you have a chance of buying the item at a lower price just from the seller’s reaction. Enjoy your treasure hunting!
The inspired new look of ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are the ideal choice in flooring if you’re looking for something that’s durable, easy to clean and suited to any design style. Available in a wide selection of sizes, shapes, colours, textures and patterns, ceramic tiles are the perfect complement to any room in your house. Here are three types that might make you think differently about flooring.
1. A WOODSY FEEL
Thanks to innovative, high-definition designs, ceramic flooring manufacturers can reproduce the natural look and warmth of real wood floors. Faux wood tiles closely mimic the look of hardwood flooring such as bamboo, redwood and even distressed wood. They’re perfect for rooms traditionally too humid for hardwood flooring, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
The sheer bliss of a central vacuum
Let’s be honest; vacuuming is a chore that many of us avoid doing until the dust and dirt are just too hard to ignore. To simplify this dreaded task, you might want to think about ditching your traditional canister or upright vacuum cleaner for a “central vac” system.
HOW THEY WORK
A central vacuum system includes a power unit and dust reservoir, a network of ducts, wall outlets and various accessories. When the vacuuming can’t be put off any longer, you simply plug a flexible hose, equipped with a handle on one end and a brush on the other, into one of the outlets. Then with a quick flick of a switch
the power unit starts up and you can move from room to room with only the hose to pull along behind you. You: 1. Dust: 0.
CHARACTERISTICS
Central vacuums are easy to install and are more powerful and much quieter than portable vacuum cleaners. Moreover, this type of system is much less cumbersome than a traditional vacuum cleaner — those things bump continuously against furniture and door frames, not to mention they have power cords that are never long enough.
INSTALLATION
Call in a professional if you decide to install a central vacuum system in your home. This specialist will make holes in your walls in order to install sockets and piping on each floor. The power unit is typically placed in the basement, well away from the living areas of your home.
COSTS
Central vacuum cleaners usually come with a price tag of between $500 and $1,500, depending on the brand, model, power and quality of the components and accessories. One last advantage to think about is that a central vacuum cleaner is considered an asset when selling your home.
Get rid of dirt hassle-free with a central vacuum cleaner.
2. A SLAB OF UNDERSTATED
If you’re a fan of industrial style, you’ll love ceramic tiles that replicate the look of natural stone, cement or concrete floors. Certain manufacturers have even gone as far as adding texture to the tiles, giving them a remarkably raw and unfinished look.
3. CAPTIVATING PATTERNS
Today’s ceramic tiles come in array of different designs and patterns to please even the most eclectic and eccentric of tastes. With so many varieties in colours and patterns, the possibilities are endless as to just how unique your floor can be.
Ceramic tiles are redefining the flooring industry.
GO FOR GOLD.
A skylight can be an excellent addition to almost any home. Here are three reasons you may want to install this type of window.
1. TO ALLOW NATURAL LIGHT IN
A skylight can brighten up a space and make it feel more inviting. This is particularly true during the winter months when there are fewer hours of sunlight. In fact, natural light is a mood booster that can help you feel calm and focused.
2. TO SAVE ON YOUR ENERGY BILLS
When installed in high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen or living room, a skylight can help minimize your electricity bill by
reducing the need to rely on artificial lighting. Additionally, the natural heat from the sun can help warm your home during the winter so your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard.
3. TO BEAUTIFY YOUR LIVING SPACE
Skylights are stylish and can make your home more attractive. Plus, if you plan to sell your home, natural light is a key selling point for potential buyers.
To install a skylight, make sure you work with a qualified contractor. Only a professional has the experience needed to ensure this job is done right.
Do you need to replace your refrigerator? If so, you might want to consider investing in a model that has an ice and water dispenser. Here are some of the perks of this feature.
1. IT’S CONVENIENT
Having quick access to cubed or crushed ice and drinking water makes it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day. It also comes in handy when entertaining guests or preparing meals. Plus, you won’t have to remember to fill ice trays anymore.
2. IT INCLUDES A FILTER SYSTEM
Most refrigerators with this feature are equipped with an interior filter, and consequently provide healthier and better tasting water than what comes out of the faucet. Depending on the water quality in your area, this can be crucial for removing contaminants.
3. IT ATTRACTS HOMEBUYERS
If you’re thinking about putting your house on the market, a fridge with all the bells and whistles might catch the attention of potential buyers. While this is unlikely to raise the value of your property, it can still be an interesting selling point.
3 reasons to buy a fridge with an ice and water dispenser
Keep in mind that if you purchase a fridge with an ice and water dispenser, you’ll need to book a service call with a plumber. Having a professional connect the water lines is the best way to ensure your new appliance runs smoothly.
