Prince George citizen April 11, 2024

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Prince George mayor’s public safety committee takes aim at fighting crime

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Prince George Mayor Simon Yu is striking a public safety standing committee to tackle crime.

The seven-member group will be focused primarily on the downtown core and at Monday’s city council meeting Yu outlined his plan to put that group together and why it is needed.

“We are a transportation hub of B.C. and over the years the crime statistics do not show us in a great light,” said Yu. “We do have issues the citizens want to address.

“The goal is to make every citizen feel safe in every part of Prince George. Using the past crime statistics as a reference point we need to understand the root cause

of some of the issues and we as a community together will put forward action plans to reduce the crime rate.”

Yu appointed three city council members to the public safety committee – Brian Skakun, Trudy Klassen, and Ron Polillo – the maximum allowed.

Yu will also invite three community members to be part of the committee whose experience lies in First Nations relations, policing, corrections with insight into what leads to repeat offenders, and about security technology. The committee will take aim at the downtown core, including the light industrial area east of Queensway, which encompasses the Moccasin Flats encampment.

Al Russell, owner of Buckhorn Heating & Air Conditioning/Carrier Plumbing & Heating in downtown Prince George, holds a repair bill estimate of $11,776 to replace 10 windows deliberately broken by a vandal at his shop in September 2023. See

CITIZEN PHOTO BY TED CLARKE

Locally Owned-Community Focused | On the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh

Proposed town hall will get public input on safety

Continued from Page A1

“We spent 37.1 per cent of our $180 million capital expenditure budget on public safety (policing) and it’s almost unsustainable,” said Yu. “It’s not saying that our police or bylaw (enforcement) are not doing a good job. A lot of times it takes a second set of eyes to learn from other jurisdictions that are facing similar issues.

“We have the crime statistics for the city for the last years and we want to identify the hot spots and use this committee to do advocacy work and actually make recommendations. Perhaps we have to have more RCMP auxiliary members to help in certain areas and look at working hours for bylaw officers during the weekends and evenings when it’s most needed.”

Yu welcomed public input on the topic and is inviting people to express their views privately through emails to the mayor’s office or the three councilors. He wants to have the committee in place by next week, ready for its first meeting sometime later this month.

In citing his council choices, Yu picked Skaun because he is the longest-serving councilor and his leadership skills will be looked upon to guide the committee to achieve its desired solutions. Klassen represented the city at a crime severity conference in Saskatoon in late February and is familiar with crime statistics and knows the problems other cities are facing and what

We have the crime statistics for the city for the last years and we want to identify the hot spots and use this committee to do advocacy work and actually make recommendations.

they have done to try to address them. Yu said Polillo’s work as chair of Northern BC Crime Stoppers gives him unique insights that will be valuable to the committee.

“What I really appreciate about Mayor Yu’s initiative here is that we want to set the direction, we want crime to be reduced and we want everybody to feel safe, but there’s that acknowledgement that we may not get there but at least we want to set the direction and establish that hope and the feeling of community,” said Klassen.

“We will not get anything done if we do not have buy-in from the ground up.”

City manager Walter Babicz will also attend the public safety committee meetings and told council clerical staff that support the city’s legislative services department will be available to the committee.

The committee will work with the Downtown Improvement Business Association to highlight some of the problems. Coun. Cori Ramsay asked Yu about opportunities for more community groups to be represented.

“Nothing is cast in stone,” said Yu. “In the months and years ahead, if this committee is ineffective and we’re not seeing tangible results, then of course we can call other task forces to deal with maybe a more specific piece dealing with public safety.”

Councilors Ramsay, Kyle Sampson and Tim Bennett submitted a notice of motion which will be discussed at the April 22 council meeting which proposes the city host a town hall meeting on public safety

to allow community members, business owners and other stakeholders to discuss with city staff and councilors their concerns about the Moccasin Flats encampment and social issues that are negatively affecting the city.

“We’ve been very focused on advocating for resources that are going to support some of the folks experiencing mental health issues, addiction issues and homelessness,” said Sampson.

“But what we haven’t been stellar on in the last year-and-a-half has been communicating more broadly with the public in areas surrounding the encampment, whether it’s (Millar Addition) residents up above, the businesses nearby or in the downtown, we need to open our dialogue better with those folks and better understand what their issues are and how we can improve that situation for them.”

Notice of Intention to Provide Assistance

Pursuant to Section 24 of the Community Charter the Regional District of FraserFort George (the “Regional District”) Board of Directors proposes to provide assistance under a loan agreement to the Fraser Fort George Museum Society (Registration No S0009084), (the “Society”), having a registered address at Box 1779, Prince George, BC, V2L 4V7.

The nature of the proposed assistance is contracting by way of a loan agreement the Regional District to pay the Society the sum of five hundred thousand ($500,000.00) dollars on the condition that Society shall apply the monies to its loan.

The term of the proposed assistance is five (5) years, and the extent of the proposed assistance is the payment of the sum of five hundred thousand ($500,000.00) dollars. Under the loan agreement the Society must repay these monies to the Regional District within five (5) years with interest at a rate of four percent (4%) during the term of the loan.

The proposed agreement and associated records are available for public inspection beginning Thursday April 4, 2024 at the Regional District office at 155 George Street, Prince George, BC, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (excluding statutory holidays)

Maureen Connelly, GM Legislative and Corporate Services / Corporate Officer

BC Prosecution Service drops manslaughter charges against two Prince George RCMP officers

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

The BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) has dropped charges against two Prince George RCMP officers accused of manslaughter in the July 18, 2017 death of Dale Culver in Prince George.

The BCPS announced Friday there is no longer a reasonable prospect of conviction regarding the charges previously approved on Feb. 1, 2023 against Cst. Paul Ste-Marie and Cst. Jean Francois Monette of the Prince George RCMP. The incident involving the 35-yearold Culver occurred after police

received a report about a man casing vehicles and found a suspect who tried to flee on a bicycle. There was allegedly a struggle when police tried to take the man into custody, other officers were called, and pepper spray was used. Officers noticed the man appeared to have trouble breathing and called for medical assistance. He collapsed immediately after being taken out of the police vehicle and died soon after, police say.

report from a pathologist who listed six factors contributing to the death, including blunt force head trauma.

The finding that head trauma contributed to Culver’s death. was further supported by the panel, including the original pathologist and two others,

However, during preparation for the preliminary inquiry, Crown prosecution was unable to resolve questions about the evidence of cause of death with the pathologist.

Culver’s death sparked an investigation by B.C.’s civilian based police watchdog, the Independent Investigation Office. In March 2020, IIO chief civilian director Ronald J. MacDonald forwarded a report to the BCPS in which he recommended that charges be laid.

Crown counsel agreed and, in February 2023, Monette and Ste.-Marie were charged with manslaughter.

Key to Crown prosecution’s case against Monet and Ste.-Marie was a

An opinion of another pathologist was obtained, and he found the cause of death was acute and chronic adverse effects of methamphetamine following a struggle, which led to sudden cardiac (arrhythmic) death.

A charge of attempting to obstruct justice against three other officers - Cst. Arthur Dalman, Cst. Clarence (Alex) Alexander MacDonald, and Sgt. Bayani (Jon) Eusebio Cruz - in relation to the incident remains outstanding.. - with files from Mark Nielsen

From nowuntil theweekofApril 22, BC Hydrowillbereplacing,relocating, and strengtheningthe transmission line towerconfigurationcrossing theBulkley river locatednorthwest of thecommunity of Telkwa.River erosionhas puta structure on thebankofthe Bulkleyriver at risk of damage during thespringfreshet.

We have worked diligently to ensure therewillbeaslittledisruptionaspossible. However, forthe safety of crewsand thepublic, therewillbea poweroutage on Sunday,April 21 from approximately8 a.m. to 8p.m.affectingTelkwa, Smithers,New Hazelton,and Hazelton andreachingasfar west as theHighway 16 andHighway 37 junction at Kitwanga.

Allimpactedcustomers will be notifiedbeforethe eventvia telephone auto-dialer, email, andpostcards.

We apologizefor theinconvenience this projectmay cause. However, we need to ensure thesafetyofthe public andthe crewsinvolvedasweconduct this work whichwillimprove thelong-term reliabilityofthe electrical system forthe region.

Formoreinformation,email us at projects@bchydro.com

Thankyou foryourpatienceand understanding.

DALE CULVER

Culver family disappointed with court decision

MARK NIELSEN Special to the Citizen

Emotions ran high at the Prince George courthouse Friday when friends and family of Dale Culver learned that two RCMP officers no longer stand accused of manslaughter in the man’s 2017 death.

The news was greeted with audible gasps and verbal outbursts by some of the roughly 60 people who gathered in the courtroom.

The two accused, Cst. Paul Ste-Marie and Cst. Jean Francois Monette, took in the hearing via video conference.

“How do you sleep at night knowing that you killed somebody’s child?” said one onlooker as the session neared the end.

With both Crown and defence

lawyers looking on, Culver’s now 22-year-old daughter, Lily SpeedNamox, stood up and angrily echoed the comment.

“It must be nice that they get to go home to their families every day, isn’t it? That they get to go home to see their sons and their daughters and their mothers and their cousins and their friends - it must be nice,” she said.

Crown counsel Joe Saunier told the court it came down to the prosecution’s inability to prove cause of death. The case against the two relied heavily on a pathologist’s finding that Culver suffered blunt force trauma.

But as the Crown was preparing for a preliminary inquiry prosecution it “started to have concerns and questions about the autopsy report.”

See CULVER, Page A6

Summit Lake PG LNG Project

Participant Funding Available

April 4, 2024 Funding provided by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) is now available to help Indigenous Peoples and the public participate in the impact assessment process for the proposed Summit Lake PG LNG Project, a liquefied natural gas facility located north of Prince George, British Columbia

Funding is available for eligible individuals and groups to support their participation throughout the planning phase of the federal impact assessment process. During the current comment period, which ends on May 2, 2024, Indigenous Peoples and the public are invited to review the summary of the Initial Project Description and provide comments. The Agency will retroactively reimburse eligible participants for their participation in this first comment period.

Applications received by May 6, 2024, will be considered.

For more information about the Participant Funding Program, including eligibility criteria and the application form, please visit the project home page, reference number 87307, and click on “Participant Funding.” You can also contact the Participant Funding Program by writing to fp-paf@iaac-aeic.gc.ca or by calling 1-866-582-1884 Details about the project can also be found on the project home page

Additional Information

In October 2023, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change announced the Government of Canada's guidance on the interim administration of the Impact Assessment Act (the IAA), following the recent decision by the Supreme Court of Canada on the constitutionality of the IAA. According to the interim measures, advancing projects through the impact assessment process is at the discretion of the proponent The Agency remains committed to collaborating with proponents to advance the assessment of projects and discuss the information requirements.

Stay updated on this project by following the Agency on X (previously Twitter): @IAAC_AEIC #SummitLake

For media inquiries, contact the Agency's media relations team by writing to media@iaac-aeic.gc.ca or calling 343-549-3870.

Culver family hears pathologist’s report

Continued from Page A5

The inquiry was put on hold and the matter was referred to an out-of-province pathologist who found that Culver “died from the acute and chronic adverse effects of methamphetamine following a struggle and that the mechanism of death was a sudden cardiac arrhythmic death.”

“As I interpret that, Dale Culver had an enlarged and weakened heart from long-term methamphetamine use. He had used methamphetamine on July 18th, 2017...he essentially had a heart attack following the struggle with police,” Saunier said.

“The pathologist did find, first, that this altercation exacerbated that condition but that altercation was not itself fatal. There were no fatal injuries sustained. Mr. Culver collapsed and died at the scene half an hour after the altercation ended.”

Speaking to local media outside the courthouse, SpeedNamox disagreed with the prosecution’s decision to drop the charges.

Investigations Office, referred the finding to a three-person panel, which included the first pathologist, and upheld the original conclusion.

Lawyer Ravi Hira, who represented Ste-Marie, said it took “great courage” by the Crown to seek yet another opinion and noted that Ontario’s chief forensic pathologist was enlisted. The outcome, he said, was that what the first pathologist thought was the cause of Culver’s death was actually the result of his death.

...what caused the heart attack was those RCMP officers and I stand by that statement...without that given interaction that night, he would still be here today...

“The fact is whether my dad had a heart condition or not, what caused the heart attack was those RCMP officers and I stand by that statement... without that given interaction that night, he would still be here today,” she said.

Culver, an Indigenous man from the Gitxsan and Wet’suwet’en Nations, had been arrested after police were called to a complaint that someone had been casing vehicles parked at the 10th Avenue Liquor Store. Culver was seen riding his bike and, according to the prosecution service’s outline of the evidence when officers tried to stop him, and a “wrestling match ensued.”

Even before the matter had reached the charge approval stage, concerns had been raised about the first pathologist’s finding.

Prior to referring the case to Crown counsel B.C.’s civilian-based police watchdog, the Independent

Notice of Property Use Agreements

“They also concluded that there was no brain injury, they concluded that the cause of death was methamphetamine poisoning and the method of death was heart attack,” Hira told the court.

Monette’s lawyer, David Butcher, noted it took seven years to reach the outcome.

“These things have to be done better and they have to be done quicker because everyone suffers as a result of this,” Butcher said. At the conclusion of the proceeding, provincial court judge Paul Dohm said Culver died in “sad and tragic circumstances,” and that he understands there is a “desire in some for someone to be held accountable.

“This decision will likely not be popular with some people, but popularity does not factor into the application of the charge approval standard. Rather the standard requires assessing the available evidence not with compassion, biases, or a misguided desire for a conviction but rather on principles of fairness, reasonableness and justice,” Dohm said.

A charge of attempting to obstruct justice against three other officers - Cst. Arthur Dalman, Cst. Clarence (Alex) Alexander MacDonald, and Sgt. Bayani (Jon) Eusebio Cruz - in relation to the incident remains outstanding.

An 18-day trial on the matter is scheduled to begin May 13.

Sinclair Mills Community Hall and Sinclair Mills Post Office

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George intends to enter into property use agreements for the use of Regional District properties for five-year terms with:

• Sinclair Mills Education and Recreational Club for use of Sinclair Mills Community Hall and Property at 37832 Upper Fraser Road and legally known as Lot A of District Lot 3126, Cariboo District Plan PGP35949 In consideration of the entitlements given, the Regional District will receive an annual payment of $300 (plus GST) for the term of the agreement

• Linda Mueller (Tenant) for the use of a portion of the Sinclair Mills Community Hall known as the Sinclair Mills Post Office In consideration of the entitlements given, the Regional District will receive a monthly payment of $20 (plus GST)

For more info visit rdffg.ca or contact communityservices@rdffg.bc.ca

Read the full, unabrdged version of many of these stories at

Popsicle stick bridge test coming to Pine Centre Mall

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Looking for a little engineering fun in Prince George?

The Central Interior branch of Engineers and Geoscientists BC is hosting their annual Popsicle Stick Bridge Building Competition on Saturday, April 13 at Pine Centre Mall.

The event is open to children and adults with prizes to be won in each age category. Using a maximum of 100 Popsicle sticks and white school glue, adults and/or children design and build their own innovative bridges at home.

The bridges are then brought to Pine Centre Mall on Saturday, April 13 where they are loaded onto the specially designed machine that applies an increasing load until the bridge breaks.

The machine is equipped with a sensor called a load cell that measures the force that is applied to the bridge. Top three bridges that can withstand the most force in each category win a gift card prize.

This event is geared to promote STEM, science technology, engineering, and math, in the community encouraging everyone to participate, if not at this year’s event, then in future events.

Adults and children can design and build their own innovative bridges at home using free kits that include 100 Popsicle sticks and white glue.

Bridge kit and instruction pickup locations:

• Thursdays to Mondays at The Exploration Place gift store, 333 Becott Place

• Tuesdays to Sundays at Two Rivers Gallery gift store, 725 Canada Games Way

• Weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Wood Innovation & Design Center (WIDC), 499 George St. at the Paladin Security desk.

• Weekdays 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Gairns

Santos Engineering Inc., 678 Vancouver St.

• Weekdays at Access Engineering Consultants Ltd., 767 Vancouver St.

The event begins with registration at the mall at 11 a.m. Contest starts at noon and goes youngest to oldest.

Carbon tax for Canadians flies in face of country’s continuing tax-free coal and LNG exports

As the calendar turned over to April 1, carbon tax increases were put in effect across the country, by provincial governments with their own carbon tax schemes in place, and by the federal government, which applies their carbon tax to jurisdictions without one.

In our post-COVID economy, just existing has become more and more expensive.

Interest rates are the highest they’ve been in decades and housing prices have skyrocketed to a point where the majority of millennials and Gen Zs are unlikely to ever be able to purchase a home.

Taxes, which feed ever-growing bureaucracies at every level, continue to climb. Those who purchased a home, or renewed their mortgage in 2019 and 2020 are on the precipice of some very difficult decisions as that the end of those five-year terms comes to an end, with borrowing rates at generational highs.

Now we get double-digit increases in our carbon taxes, which undoubtedly has an impact on everything that gets transported to us, the end users. Where the pain is most felt by those of us in and around Prince George is the carbon tax applied to

home heating bills.

We can choose not to drive as much, or take transit. We don’t have the luxury of not heating our homes when nighttime lows fall well below -30, often for weeks on end.

Canada makes up roughly 1.5 per cent of global greenhouse emissions, while our 40 million residents represent about 0.5 per cent of the global population. Even if we were

somehow able to halve our emissions, that would only represent a 0.75 per cent decrease worldwide. But that isn’t happening, in fact, we’re not even close.

According to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, we’ve been in and around the 700 megatonne level of CO2 equivalent in emissions per year, with the only two noticeable significant reductions

occurring during the 2008/2009 economic crisis, when the price of oil plummeted and domestic production was cut back, and in 2020, during the pandemic.

The cruel ironies that pass through Prince George and across Western Canada are the train cars full of coal, and pipelines full of natural gas, both being exported to jurisdictions to use how they see fit. How many of those countries have no carbon pricing? How does that logic pair with attempting to curtail emissions in Canada by taxing businesses and residents? If climate change and the reduction of emissions is really at the heart of these programs, why would the federal government allow them to be extracted and shipped across the country, and after that, across an ocean to fuel other countries’ homes and industries? Doesn’t that practice run in direct conflict with the goals stated by the federal government’s carbon pricing plan? The majority of Canadians believe that climate change is real. Where we begin to diverge is taking the approach that taxing everyone on everything is going to do anything to solve it.

Curtis Armstrong is the publisher of the Prince George Citizen.

LORDHENRIVOTON/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS

The carbon tax increase that kicked in April 1st will impact food affordability across Canada and make it more expensive to heat buildings.

The value of swap sheds at landfills

If you grew up on a farm, you learn pretty quick there’s no such thing as garbage.

That old leaky garden hose? That could insulate some electric fence. Better save it!

So every time I go to the Foothills Landfill I’m looking at resources that are going to waste.

A couple years ago an out-of-town construction crew rolled up next to me at one of the bins and started throwing out R40 insulation. It was in perfect condition, apparently a warranty job where a roof leak may have got some of it wet. Nothing looked wrong with it to me, but mind you my eyes were just about bugged out of my head at the sight of such opportunity. I diverted that waste straight into the back of my truck faster than the city could blow a million on a roundabout. So did another guy who pulled up. We both filled our trucks up.

Throughout the regional district, we have swap sheds.

But not in Prince George. Not anymore.

The word on the street is some folks were getting a little over-enthusiastic about recycling. To me that’s a good thing, but apparently it was scaring some of us. There was apparently some fighting or conflict over the bigger scores.

Another theory I heard was we couldn’t keep track of the waste coming in for planning purposes. But talking to the manager of waste diversion at the regional district, Laura Zapotichney, that wasn’t it either. I guess it was just no longer worth it. It wasn’t diverting much waste and a couple of incidents with people using the swap shed for a bathroom had raised health issues. There are also several businesses

and non-profits in town now where you can drop off clothes, appliances and materials who will resell them, she told me. And indeed, we do have great stores in town including Christina Wall’s award winning Wall to Wall Recycling at 12B, 1839 First Avenue.

But not everyone has the time, nor does everyone know about places like Wall to Wall (it’s actually hard to find on google, and it requires a bit of navigation to find it on the Regional District’s Sort Smart website. You can find it under the Commercial tab).

Apparently not even the school district knows about these alternatives. Last year I watched in dismay as a district truck started tossing away perfectly good, wellbuilt metal and wood desks in the dump, along with a ping pong table that I guess had some bad wheels. There wasn’t even an effort to put it in the metal recycling bin.

Recovering waste makes our region not only richer, but happier – swap sheds are fun, a place of community to bond over a good thing, and you know what, I’m still chuffed about that insulation score!

Our institutions and governments should nurture resourcefulness, creativity, and community. The swap shed sends the old-fashioned signal that it is acceptable and beneficial to recover goods.

Maybe instead of closing the swap shed because someone used it as a bathroom, how about they provide us bathrooms at the landfill?

There’s been more than once when, after waiting in a long lineup and physical exertion, I personally wish they did.

The regional district is currently doing a major expansion and a natural gas recovery facility for the Foothills landfill.

But no swap shed?

There’s a lot of gold that gets buried. The last thing we should be doing is burying that opportunity in the landfill.

UPLIFTING!

in choreographer Guillaume Côté’s Bolero, featuring five dancers that do not leave the stage for the entire 14-minute piece. The enthusiastic audience Friday night at Vanier Hall enjoyed the show, including performances of two works by choreographer Cameron Fraser-Monroe, a member of the Tla’amin First Nation, the first being taqeš, a story of how the raven stopped frog from drinking all the water, and The Cowboy Act Suite. The Prince George

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Ballet Kelowna dancers (left to right) MacKye White, Kurt Werner, Desiree Bortolussi, Seiji Suzuki, and Donaldo Nava performed

show concluded Ballet Kelowna’s BC tour.

Sentencing for fraud looms for former E Fry manager

MARK NIELSEN

Special to the Citizen

A former Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Society financial manager faces sentencing for using two credit cards issued by the non-profit organization to run up $240,000 in personal expenses.

Rhonda Lee Bailey has pleaded guilty to one count of fraud over $5,000.

During a hearing on Friday, Crown and defence counsel set out positions on sentencing. She faces anywhere from a conditional sentence order of two years less a day followed by three

years probation to as much as five years in prison.

Conditional sentence orders are served at home while allowing the person to continue working. Probation typically includes a curfew.

Both positions on sentencing include ordering Bailey to pay $240,000 in restitution.

According to an agreed statement of facts, Bailey had been given two corporate credit cards to pay for work-related travel or for purchases for the benefit of the organization.

But in May 2018, an audit uncovered missing credit card statements.

A search followed, and they were found in a

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banker’s box underneath Bailey’s desk. When the organization’s executive director went through the statements, she found 13 suspicious transactions related to travel, groceries and online shopping.

When Bailey was confronted, she retrieved an envelope from her desk and handed it over “upon request” and admitted to improper use of the credit cards and apologized.

Bailey said she was only trying to “maintain her childrens’ lifestyle” and, when asked how long it had been going on for, she said a couple of years.

Bailey was terminated from her position the next day. Prince George RCMP was contacted, and an investigation determined that the unauthorized expenditures began in January 2013 and added up to more than 1,000 transactions totalling about $240,000.

Purchases included payments for vacations, flights, hotels, meals, makeup, dog kenneling fees, moving van rentals, clothing and miscellaneous online shopping. The beneficiaries included Bailey and her children. Bailey admitted to having knowledge of the organization’s policy prohibiting use of the credit cards for personal use.

She had held the job since 2006 and had been responsible for reviewing corporate expenses and the organization’s accounting system. She made arbitrary entries into the system related to the expenditures, “to ensure there was no obvious financial deficit,” the court was told.

“Ms. Bailey used her financial expertise, her knowledge of the processes, the trust bestowed upon her to continue her crime without detection for a period of five years,” the statement reads.

The fraud created significant fallout for the organization, according to a victim impact statement read into the record.

The impact was described as “devastating, challenging, time consuming to repair and has cast a shadow over the relationship with our funders.”

The funds Bailey redirected to herself were to have provided “vital services to vulnerable women, children, youth and families,” the statement reads.

Management was sent scrambling to inform funders and created an atmosphere of mistrust.

Bailey’s replacement needed to spend many hours to correct the general ledger and create a moving-forward financial plan.

“Her actions completely took the wind out of our sails. It left us adrift wondering how we could recover from this storm,” the statement reads.

The organization employs 68 people through 26 programs.

According to a pre-sentence report, Bailey is ashamed and disappointed and had fully intended to pay back the money owed. Her motivation was identified as a worry about appearing to be a “failure or struggling.”

A decision on sentencing was adjourned to a later date.

City denies responsibility for downtown explosion

MARK NIELSEN

Special to The Citizen

The City of Prince George has issued a wholesale denial in answer to allegations raised in a legal action brought by the owner of a downtown nightspot in the aftermath of an explosion that levelled a nearby building this past summer.

Contrary to a notice of civil claim filed against the City in January by Trevor Sakamoto, whose company Encore Promotions Inc. owns Heartbreakers nightclub, the Aug. 22, 2023 blast that took down the long-vacant Achillion restaurant at 422 Dominion St. was “not reasonably foreseeable.”

“The Explosion was not caused by any act, omission, fault or breach of duty of the City, the City’s Bylaw Enforcement Officers, or its authorized agents or employees,” the City further states in a response filed March 4 at the Prince George courthouse.

Sakamoto alleges that the day before the explosion a city employee on regular duties in the vicinity noted a strong

smell of natural gas coming from the building. When she reported the smell to the city’s bylaw enforcement office, she was told they would take care of the problem, according to the claim.

The next day, the employee was once again in the vicinity “and again was alarmed by the strong smell of natural gas.” Using her cellphone, she contacted Fortis, the natural gas supplier, and while doing so the building exploded

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and she was severely injured.

The worker, identified as 34-year-old Victoria Mcgivern, was blown off her feet and buried in debris, suffering a serious head injury, extensive burns and torn tendons in her hands, which required surgery. Three other people also suffered injuries in the blast. However, in the response, the City maintains the employee in question was not working in the vicinity of the

building the day before and if there was a leak the City had no knowledge of it.

The City further notes the explosion did not occur until the next day and was “caused by the theft, tampering or other unauthorized and unlawful interference with copper piping, gas fixtures and/or other utility components” within the building of which the City had no knowledge.

In the notice of claim, Sakamoto also states the explosion was brought about by persons unlawfully in the building taking copper pipe.

Sakamoto is seeking damages from the City, saying the explosion damaged the nighspot’s exterior cladding, its HVAC and other external machinery, and broke windows and blew toxic materials into the interior.

The owner has insurance coverage for some but not all of the damage and only at a discount due to the building’s age and condition at the time of the explosion. A loss of profits was also suffered due to the subsequent closure for repairs, the claim states.

None of the allegations have yet been tested in court.

SHAYNE HAWLEY

This photo captures the chaos of the explosion and fire on August 22, 2023 that destroyed the former Achillion Restaurant at Fourth Avenue and Dominion Street.

Su mmi t La ke PG LN G Pr oj ect

Pu bl ic Co mme nt s In vi te d

JX LNG Canada Ltd. (the proponent) is proposing to develop a new liquefied natural gas facility located about 30 kilometres north of Prince George, British Columbia.

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) and B.C.’s Environmental Assessment Office (the EAO) are working cooperatively for the initial phase of the project’s review You are invited to provide feedback on the proponent’s Initial Project Description from:

April 2, 2024 until May 2, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time (PDT).

Comments received will support the preparation of a joint Summary of Issues and Engagement document that will be given to the proponent to help it write the Detailed Project Description. You can visit either of the following sites to review this document and provide your feedback:

•The Canadian Impact Assessment Registry at canada.ca/ciar (reference number 80087) A summary of the Initial Project Description document is available in English or French.

•The Environmental Assessment Office’s website at engage.eao.gov.bc.ca/SummitLakeLNG-EE.

To learn more, join us at one of these upcoming events:

In-person open house

Wednesday, April 10, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. PDT

Sandman Signature Prince George Great Room 2990 Recreation Place

Prince George, British Columbia

Virtual Information Sessions

•Thursday, April 18, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. PDT

•To register for the virtual session, please visit: engage.eao.gov.bc.ca/SummitLakeLNG-EE or https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/proj/87307

•A French virtual information session is available upon request.

The sessions will include information on the project as well as the assessment process. Federal and provincial officials and the proponent will also be available to answer questions

The Government of British Columbia has requested that the federal impact assessment, if one is warranted, be substituted to the province If granted, the EAO would conduct the project’s impact assessment on behalf of the Agency, meeting both federal and provincial legislative requirements. The Agency is seeking your comments on this request.

You can also contact the Agency at SummitLake@iaac-aeic.gc.ca to learn how to provide your input in a different format

Vanderhoof Airshow a little different this year

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Masters of the Air Exhibition will be presented by the Vanderhoof Airshow Society as a pivot from the traditional airshows seen in the past.

The Vanderhoof Airshow Society members restructured the event to continue to bring the history and education of aviation to the region.

The date for the exhibit is Thursday, August 1 in Prince George and Saturday, August 3 in Vanderhoof where the B-17 Flying Fortress, star of the Apple+ TV series Masters of the Air will be presented along with several other rare fighter aircraft and local flyers.

B-17 Aircraft Tours will be at the Prince George International Airport (YXS) on Thursday August 1st, and flights in the B-17 Flying Fortress, the P-51D Mustang, Harvard Mk4 and P-40E Kittyhawk will be available in Vanderhoof on August 3. Information on how to book a tour or flight will be available on their website.

On the field will be childcare provided by the YMCA, food services, aviation book sellers, a 50/50 draw and model aircraft displays.

Admission is $10 per person and $5 for children 12 years old or younger. More information will be available on the website as it becomes available at www.vanderhoofairshow.ca/

Tse’ kheneTimberLtd

Public Notice:ForestOperationsMap Review andInvitationfor Comment

In accordance with theForestRange andPractices Act, Tse’ kheneTimber Ltd. andSpectrumResourceGroup invitesthe public to review itsForest Operations Maps (FOM ID:1318and 1349)inthe MackenzieNatural Resource District.The FOMdescribes areasproposedfor Cutting Permit andRoad Permitdevelopment within thenextthree yearsstartingonMay 11th,2024, and ending on April10th, 2027.Wewelcome your commentsand feedback duringthe review period starting April11th, 2024.Pleasesubmityour commentsbyMay 11th,2024.

Themap is accessiblefor review andcomment submission online at: https:// fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects#publicNotices

Alternatively, in-personreviewand commentscan be scheduledand completedatthe following location during regularofficehours (Monday–Friday,8:00AM– 4:00 PM): 1960 RobertsonRoad, Prince George,BC, V2N1X6

Commentsmay also be submittedbymailtothe aboveaddressorsubmitted viaphone or emailat: 1-250-564-0383;etorres@srgi.ca

PG Tickled Pig to the rescue

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

The PG Tickled Pig Rescue team had quite the adventure recently when they saved a pig just north of Clinton.

The mixed-breed intact male had been seen along the highway for about two weeks and that’s when a good Samaritan decided she was going to start feeding him even though she had no experience with pigs.

The pig made himself at home even though there was really no place for him there.

The kind lady was afraid of the pig as he started to push his weight around at feeding time and after hearing that report Tickled Pig Rescue’s Kerri Hegel decided she needed to bring him to Prince George.

When Tickled Pig Rescue got him in the kennel they used for transport there were a couple of rumblings but after that he seemed to settle in for the trip.

“He was pretty vocal through the whole trip and would get in on the

conversation when he heard us talking,” Hegel said.

“When we got home we worked til 2 in the morning rigging a separate penned area for him but when we got up the next day he had already broken through and introduced himself,” Hegel said.

“We knew it was going to happen but we had to try.”

Included in the Tickled Pig family is Kohko, Tater, L’il Guy, Petunia, Tank, Bonk and Mowgli and foster piggy, Ellie, from Terrace as her owner recovers from surgery.

“We’re thinking of calling him Randy because he’s chasing all the girls,” Hegel laughed. They’ve tried to keep him separated but he just fence crashes his way back to the herd.

past his appointment time. The second attempt was a success with Ron’s towing offering a secure trailer to secure the wayward Big Red. Everything went great at the vet’s and he’s recovering back at PG Tickled Pig Rescue.

“He’s a Houdini, pig style,” Hegel said on one of her many Facebook posts as she documents the daily shenanigans of the wayward pig.

And when it was time to get him to his appointment with the vet to get checked and neutered it seemed he knew what was happening and put up such a fuss, breaking out of the crate until it was

They’ve settled on calling him Red or Big Red and Hegel’s daughter calls him Clifford, as in the Big Red Dog.

“He’s definitely a meat pig but we want him to live his life as a pet,” Hegel said. “When pigs are raised for meat they are not cared for like a pet and that leads to medical issues so they could have diseases and right now we’re just hoping he isn’t bringing anything into the herd.”

He’s got a few issues and it even looks like his ears were chewed on by a potential predator and that sparks the idea

that he might’ve been out wandering on his own for longer than the two weeks he’d been seen along the highway.

During his first few days at Tickled Pig Rescue he’s been very content just to be included, Hegel said.

“It would be interesting to know where he’s come from,” Hegel said. “Most of the pigs we rescue are very afraid of humans and have come from bad situations. Red seems pretty happy to be around people and other pigs.”

After he is neutered and given a clean bill of health from the vet, Tickled Pig Rescue will rehome Red but only to the perfect piggy pet home.

“He deserves to live out his life as a pet,” Hegel said.

Right now the bills are adding up for his general care and feeding, as Tickled Pig funds their rescue efforts on their own. And then there’s the vet bill.

“If everyone who reads this donated $5, we would have enough to pay the vet and get him healthy,” Hegel said. If you’d like to donate, do an etransfer to piggiemommakerri@gmail.com.

CrimE PrEvEntion

The BC Crime Prevention Association (BCCPA) is an integrated team of citizens and police dedicated to preventing crime and improving community safety through awareness and education. For additional crime prevention and community safety information and resources, visit BCCPA at www.bccpa.org, email: info@bccpa.org or call toll-free 1-888-405-2288.

Seniors Safety

How seniors can PrEParE For natural disastErs

Did you know that seniors suffer more disaster-related deaths than the general population? According to the Red Cross, older adults are more at risk of injury and fatality during all phases of a disaster, including the time leading up to and the time following the event.

While not all seniors are equally vulnerable during disasters, with advanced age many adults develop health conditions that make staying safe during a hurricane, tornado, fire, flood or other type of crisis more difficult.

Seniors are also more likely to be socially isolated, have slower response times and experience cognitive decline, all of which impact their ability to navigate perilous situations.

The good news is that many disasterrelated fatalities and injuries can be prevented with the right planning and resources. Here are three steps seniors can take to prepare themselves for a

local emergency.

1. Form a support network. Make sure you have at least three people in your community who you can rely on during an emergency. Keep their contact information current and accessible at all times.

2. Establish meeting places. Designate two meeting places — one near your house and one that’s further away but still in your neighbourhood — where friends and relatives will know to find you in case of an emergency evacuation.

3. Prepare your own emergency kit. All households should have an emergency kit, but seniors should take extra precautions to ensure their kit is easy to access and contains a three- to six-day supply of all medications and devices they require. Older adults with certain health conditions, such as diabetes and dementia, should also wear medical ID bracelets so that first

responders will have the information they need to proceed with any needed treatment.

Given the increasing number of natural disasters taking place across North America, it’s essential that Canadians of all ages have access to the support they need to survive a catastrophe. If you have elderly relatives, friends and neighbours, make sure to check on them during storms, power outages and other types of local emergencies.

MoBility scooteRs:

If getting around is difficult for you even with the help of a cane or a walker, you might find that using a mobility scooter is a great way to regain some freedom and independence. Scooters come in a large variety of models and can be either bought or rented. To help you determine which option is best for you, here are some things to think about.

Renting:

• Is ideal when dealing with a temporary mobility issue following an operation.

• Is highly flexible thanks to daily, weekly, monthly and yearly rental options.

should you rent or buy?

• Is hassle free — you won’t have to worry about maintenance and winter storage.

• Is cheaper than buying,in the short term.

Buying:

• Means you can customize your scooter to suit your needs.

• Is perfect if you want to use your scooter yearlong.

• Allows you to sell your scooter if you want to upgrade or don’t need it anymore.

• Is cheaper than renting, in the long term.

Many retailers also offer a rent-to-

4 things to consideR when selecting a mobility scooter

When it comes to buying or renting a mobility scooter, there’s a wide range of options available. To help you decide which type is best for you, here are four key things to consider.

1. youR usage RequiReMents

First, you should determine how much ground you’ll cover every day. Find out how far your home is from locations you visit regularly, such as the grocery store or the library, and how often you like to make the trip. Understanding the distance you intend to cover will help you to select the appropriate battery.

2. youR physical condition

If you experience discomfort while sitting down, opt for a model with large, shock-absorbing wheels and a comfortable seat. Overweight users may prefer a larger seat and sturdier features overall, while people struggling with dexterity loss may benefit from ergonomic handles.

3.youR suRRoundings

If you’re going to venture outside, choose a larger, heavier scooter. These provide more stability on uneven

roads and sidewalks.

If you’re planning on using your scooter inside, you’ll need to measure the width of your door frames and hallways. This will allow you to choose a model small enough to manoeuvre indoors.

4.youR stoRage space

Most scooters need to be stored in a dry place over the winter. If that’s not an option for you, it might be better to rent a scooter a few months out of the year rather than buying one.

The most important thing when shopping for a mobility scooter is to make your needs known so you can get the best advice possible. Last but not least, don’t forget to test drive before you buy.

own option, which can be advantageous if you’re not sure you want or need to commit to buying a scooter. In any case, make sure you take time to evaluate your specific situation, your budget and what you need out of your mobility scooter. This will allow salespeople to give you the best advice possible.

DiD You KNow?

If you suffer from permanent mobility issues, you may qualify for provincial financial aid programs. Retailers are often familiar with these, so don’t hesitate to ask about them.

From player to owner to fan, Hamhuis impressed with Cougars in playoffs

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Dan Hamhuis has waited 10 years to watch the Prince George Cougars blossom into real contenders for the Western Hockey League championship.

As a partner in the EDGEPRo Sports & Entertainment Ltd., ownership group that bought the Cougars in 2014, Hamhuis knew it was going to take time to bring a winner to the city and that he and co-owners Eric Brewer, Ernest Ouellet, John Pateman, Greg Pocock and Raymond Fortier would eventually be rewarded for investing their hard-earned cash in keeping WHL hockey in Prince George. That time is now.

The Cougars, having set Prince George franchise records for wins and points while winning the Western Conference championship, are digging in for an extended playoff run, fresh from eliminating the Spokane Chiefs last week in a four-game sweep.

The Cats will be well rested when they step on the ice at CN Centre Friday night to start the second round to take on the Kelowna Rockets.

Years of growing pains and losing seasons that brought in high draft picks and a series of impactful trades that are now paying off for Cougars and their fans, who can’t wait to find out if this is indeed their year to win it all.

“What I’ve noticed over the last three years is the growth in all of them, the coaches have done a wonderful job of instilling winning habits,” said Hamhuis. “They‘ve got a lot of high-end skill to put the puck in the net and it’s the little things they’ve learned in preventing odd-man rushes and knowing how to win board battles in the right places.”

Hamhuis knows that feeling of going on an extended playoff run. In the 2000 playoffs, his second season playing defence for the Cougars, they got to the third round before Spokane ended their season in a five-game series. Two years

In accordance with theForestRange andPractices Act, OBOForest ManagementGPLTD.and Spectrum Resource Groupinvites thepublicto reviewits Forest Operations Maps (FOM ID:1347) in theMackenzie Natural ResourceDistrict. TheFOM describesareas proposed forCutting Permit and Road Permit developmentwithinthe next threeyears starting on May 11th, 2024,and ending on April10th, 2027.Wewelcome your comments and feedback during thereviewperiodstartingApril 11th,2024. Please submityourcommentsbyMay 11th,2024.

Themap is accessiblefor review andcomment submission online at: https:// fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects#publicNotices

Alternatively, in-personreviewand commentscan be scheduledand completed at thefollowing location during regularofficehours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM –4:00PM): 1960 RobertsonRoad, Prince George,BC, V2N1X6

Commentsmay also be submittedbymailtothe aboveaddressor submitted viaphone or emailat: 1-250-564-0383;etorres@srgi.ca

later, Hamhuis won the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy as league MVP before he left to begin his brilliant NHL career with Nashville, Vancouver and Dallas, a road that led to Olympic gold in 2014. He also knows what it’s like to play in front of big Prince George audience. Regular season or playoffs, it didn’t matter, it was always a packed house when there was a game in the building formerly known as the Prince George Multiplex. The buzz over this year’s team has brought attendance back and that has to be satisfying for the owners who backed the team and lost money through all those years when empty seats overwhelmingly outnumbered the fans who stuck with the team.

“It’s fun to see it back like this, the players have had such a great season and it’s exciting to watch,” said Hamhuis, who sat in the owners’ box with his family from Smithers for Game 2 of the Spokane series.

“You can see why people are out watching, it’s exciting every night and I think as an ownership group this is kind of what we’ve kind of been building for, for a lot of years. It took a little longer than what we initially hoped, but we’re happy to be here now where the team is doing really well on the ice and the city of Prince George is excited about the team and coming out to watch.

“We had to learn as we went and figure it out and we’ve got some great people in the organization that have got us here. The players, we have a really good group, I mean, not just good hockey players but they’re great guys too and that adds up to being where we are now.”

Hamhuis, a veteran of 1,148 regular season NHL games and 68 playoff games, knows what quality coaching can do to advance a team and the Cougars have NHL experience working for them behind the bench. Mark Lamb, is now in his 22nd season as a coach and his associate Jim Playfair, has 30 years of experience teaching the game.

Playfair went from a job as an associate coach of the Edmonton Oilers to coaching junior hockey for the first time with his Cougars gig. It’s no fluke the Cougars special teams – power play and penalty killing – are among the best in the league.

“Those players are pretty lucky to have those guys behind the bench and you can see the effect that they’ve had on the players,” said Hamhuis. “They’ve improved so much as individuals and as a team, so many of them have had career years. The experience that Mark and Jim bring, they can tell stories of players they’ve coached before and they know what it takes to be at that level and the players have really responded well to that.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Prince George Cougars co-owner and former Vancouver Canuck Dan Hamhuis (top row, far right) and his family attended Game 2 of the Spokane series March 30 at CN Centre.

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Prince George dentists not signing up for federal dental care program

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

A Prince George woman who successfully applied for the federal government’s new dental coverage plan for seniors has been told by her dentist the plan will not be accepted.

Janice Duggan received a letter in the mail from the federal government last month to inform her she qualifies for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, which is available to seniors 70 years and older provided their annual family income does not exceed $90,000.

The letter said she could expect to receive a package from Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada within the next three months which would include a member’s card and details of what’s in the plan.

Duggan went to Hart Dental a couple weeks ago and asked the receptionist about the government plan and was told she would be responsible for paying the

full costs of her treatment and that none of the dentists in Prince George have signed up to be providers registered under the new federal insurance policy.

“I asked them about this plan and she said that the dental groups got together in Prince George and basically told me that none of them are going for it,” said Duggan. “I said to her, then if I can’t come to you guys because your dentist isn’t accepting it, can you give me the name of a dentist in town that is accepting this so-called plan and she said they basically aren’t going for it.

“They have their issues with it and that’s why they’re not going to accept it, but we don’t know that.”

Duggan, 74, is not the only one wondering about what the federal program will cover and who will be providing the services.

“Somebody needs to say something, because all of these people think that they’re just going to be able to go to their dentists and get their plan and

everything will be fine,” said Duggan. “I think that’s misleading.

“I don’t have a dental plan and have to pay cash every time I go, so we were excited about getting this, but you’re not really getting it if these dentists are not accepting it.”

The program is not intended as a replacement for existing dental benefits offered through employer/pension-sponsored or private plans but will fill in existing gaps in coverage for people who are not insured. The government claims the $4.4 billion program plan will cover as many as nine million Canadians over the next five years, providing up to 100 per cent of eligible dental care service costs to local providers, but that won’t cover the full cost.

While dentists in Prince George follow the British Columbia fee guide, the federal plan has its own fee structure to determine cost of procedures and patients will be responsible for paying a portion of the costs.

many seniors require that every six months to maintain oral health.

According to the government website, “Oral health providers are encouraged to follow the CDCP established fees, which are not the same as the provincial and territorial fee guides, so that their patients do not face additional charges at the point of care.”

That would mean participating dentists would be forced to write off those additional charges.

Several procedures have to be pre-authorized by the administrators of the plan, but Foy says they are not accepting any pre-authorizations until Nov. 1. Dentists have also been told they most likely would also have to wait until November to receive payments from the insurer, Sun Life Financial.

The graduated application process was first applied in December to people aged 87 or older and in March seniors aged 70-71 could apply. By May, when the program is in effect, it will be open to anybody aged 65 or older.

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“What has been put out to the public as far as the coverage is totally not true,” said Leanne Foy, practice manager of Timber Ridge Dental in Prince George. “What they’ve sold to the public is that this is free dental and it’s no where close to being free dental, unfortunately. That’s why there’s frustration from patients who are signing up and phoning around, saying they have free dental now, and we have to give them the bad news.’

For oral health providers, participation in the Canadian Dental Care Plan is voluntary and none of the local dentists who form the Prince George District Dentist Association have yet applied to be part of the program. Few details were released in advance of the March 11 deadline for dentists to register and that uncertainty prompted the BC Dental Association to recommend that they not sign up as plan providers.

“The problem is that basically the dentists are being told by the government that in order to take patients and for us to bill the Canadian Dental Care Plan, dentists have to register for it,” said Foy.

Patients are eligible for 100 per cent coverage of the CDCP fee rate, provided the net family income is less than $70,000. A patient’s whose family income is between $70,0000 and $79,999 will receive 60 per cent fee coverage, while those who make between $80,000 and $89,999 will get 40 per cent coverage.

The CDCP fee guidelines are significantly lower than BC fee rates for procedures.

As an example, Foy said in the case of tooth extraction that costs $160, the government fee for that service is only $50, of which the plan would cover only a percentage of that.

“There hasn’t been a whole lot of information released to dentists and they won’t give any more information until you register. They haven’t been totally honest and transparent and a lot of dentists are leery of signing up.

The federal plan also limits frequency. For people who need to have their teeth professionally cleaned, the CDCP only covers that once every 12 months, when

“We’re getting lots of people phoning around and it is confusing. It’s confusing for us because we haven’t been getting all the facts. Until those facts are better explained to dental offices and dentist/owners they’re not going to register for something they don’t what they’re getting involved in.”

Regional District to consider $500,000 loan to Exploration Place

MARK NIELSEN

Speial to the Citizen

A proposal to loan $500,000 to the society that operates Exploration Place will be up for consideration at the Fraser-Fort George Regional District board of directors’ regular meeting this month.

Pending board approval, the loan would amount to a conversion from two advances on the Fraser-Fort George Regional Museum Society’s 2024 operating grant.

In March 2020 the museum was forced to close by the pandemic and at that time a $1.4-million renovation was launched with a plan to reopen by early-summer 2022. However, supply chain issues and labour shortages postponed the re-opening to the end

of October 2022.

The delay has “presented operational challenges,” staff has said in reports to directors.

At the end of 2023, the FFGRD advanced the Society $250,000 from its 2024 operating grant to assist with cashflow pressures. A further $250,000 was advanced at the end of January.

The Society’s operating grant from the FFGRD stands at $881,290 for 2024.

Under the proposed terms, the $500,000 would be paid back over five years with an interest rate of four per cent during the term, according to a notice posted last week on the regional district’s website.

Directors will consider the matter at their April 18 meeting.

Drugs and danger never far away for downtown Prince George street survivor

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

In his years of living on the streets in Prince George and Dawson Creek, Jason has seen too many friends die of drug overdoses.

Disturbingly, there’s no fix in sight to the problem that last year killed 2,511 British Columbians.

Jason quit counting after the 38th time he had to inject someone with Narcan to bring them back from the brink of an OD death. He carries the kit with him wherever he goes. The first time he used it, on a friend in Dawson Creek, he didn’t get to him in time.

They know what they inhale into their lungs or inject into their veins can be deadly, so why take the chance?

“Nobody wakes up one morning and says, ‘I’m going to use heroin or fentanyl’, it’s stuff that builds up over time,” said Jason, who didn’t want his surname revealed.

“Basically, when you start using fentanyl you don’t give a crap what happens to you anymore, it numbs the feelings you have. Most people that use, if you look into their backgrounds, they haven’t had an easy life from childhood up. Most of them are pretty good people that just had a lot of shitty things happen to them.”

The story of Jason, and how he ended up a homeless downtown wanderer for the better part of six years is a tale of drugs, depression, violence and heartache, with no happy ending on the horizon.

When he got into my vehicle to sit and talk about his life I had no idea what he had gone through to hit that rock-bottom stage, how he slipped from being a well-paid worker in the oil patch to being a drug-addicted street survivor nearly beaten to death by a convicted felon wielding a baseball bat.

But I decided it was important for Citizen readers to know about life in the inner-city core and what really happens to some of the estimated 300 people in Prince George who have no place to call home. For Jason, that story starts with the day his life almost ended.

Last year on the afternoon of Oct. 27,

not long after he ate his bagged lunch from the St. Vincent de Paul Drop-in Centre on Second Avenue, Jason was standing in an alleyway behind the Ketso Yoh men’s homeless centre on Quebec Street when a man he knew approached him and without warning started hitting him on the head with a baseball bat. He found out later he had been struck eight times during the assault that fractured his skull, which happened in front of witnesses who came to his aid by chasing away the attacker and phoning 9-1-1. The suspect was followed and police arrested him 15 minutes later a few blocks away.

“I was friends with him, I thought,” he said. “I guess he had a thing for my girlfriend. He hit me for absolutely no reason. I was just minding my own business.”

Jason was rushed to UHNBC where doctors removed a piece of his skull to relieve the pressure on his brain. He was then flown to Vancouver where he had two other surgeries and doctors inserted a titanium plate to patch the hole.

The assault was recorded by a video camera which led to a charge of aggravated assault against Tucker James Botheras, who remains in custody pending trial. Botheras was out on bail after he was found guilty of another assault committed on June 25, 2022.

After 14 days in Vancouver General, Jason was flown back to Prince George and spent another 10 days in hospital before he was released. But with no fixed address he had no place to go. He went to several social agencies trying to arrange for a room where he could recover from his injuries but nothing was available.

Jason remembers nothing of the attack and suffers from severe shortterm memory loss. He gets confused and disoriented. Years before the attack, Jason was in a car accident and suffered a head injury that caused him to lose his short-term memory capacity. Now, that condition is even worse.

“I’m lucky if I could retain maybe 40 percent of what happened every three days, it’s almost like (the movie) 50 First Dates - everything was wiped clean,” he said.

“I got lost up at Spruceland for three days, just walking around, and that may never go away.”

Motel rent payments leave little in his wallet

Jason wants to work but is reluctant to take a job because his short-term memory is virtually non-existent and he says he won’t remember instructions a day after they were explained to him. He’s applied

for Persons With a Disability assistance to supplement the $1,050 per month he gets from the province to pay all his living expenses. That was an upgrade from the $600 per month he used to receive.

In February he moved into a room in the Frankfurt Motel along the Hart Highway which costs him $1,000 per month. That leaves him with just $50 from his government assistance cheque to pay for his other living expenses.

The motel room is a bus ride away from downtown where he can get three meals a day and socialize with his friends, but it beats relying on the Active Support Against Poverty shelter on Sixth Avenue or sleeping on the street.

“I got lucky because I got a social worker and a life skills worker that are helping me; the room is the start of something,” he said. “My room has a bed, a fridge and stove, no microwave, no TV and sometimes no hot water.” Jason has suffered from depression most of his life and has been diagnosed with PTSD symptoms that sometimes cause him to wake up screaming. His nightmares were disturbing other residents of the overnight shelters so he avoided going there and that meant being outside alone on the streets at night in frigid winter temperatures.

See ASSAULT, Page A21

The St. Vincent de Paul Drop-in Centre on Second Avenue feeds hundreds of people struggling to get by with their daily lives.

Assault victim talks about his life

Continued from Page A20

He survived the cold by finding a heat vent near a building and covering himself with a tarp or bedding down in underground parking structures, where he’s never safe from people who want to steal his possessions. He had his backpack stolen several times while he was asleep and has lost count how many cell phones and cordless chargers he’s had to replace.

“Everything I own, I’m wearing,” he said. “When you sleep on the street people take stuff out of your pocket while you’re sleeping. If I’m not robbed once a week there’s something wrong.”

Jason lived outdoors through the winter of 2021-22 in Dawson Creek on days when it dipped to -48 C with wind chills in the -50s.

“I was outside for it, I didn’t have any place to go and I walked 18 hours,” he said. “I knew if I stopped I would have froze to death.”

No public washrooms means dirty streets

Jason sympathizes with shop owners and business operators downtown who complain about street people who have no place to go to the bathroom and leave human waste on the sidewalks, streets and alleyways. He doesn’t like it either but says the lack of public washroom facilities in the downtown core creates a problem that’s sometimes unavoidable.

“Put on some grubby clothes and a backpack and go into a business and ask to use the washroom and you’ll see how many let you use them,” he said. “There’s only two places that are open at the same time, the House of Friendship and the Needle Exchange, so where do you go? People say it’s disgusting but do you see any port-apotties around?

“It doesn’t matter what you do, there’s always going to be a few that screw it up for everybody and will lock the door and OD in a port-a-pottie. It doesn’t mean everyone is going to be like that.”

Originally from Dawson Creek, Jason worked on the rigs for several years after he left high school.

“For the most part I had a good upbringing, I was into sports a little bit in elementary. At one time I was on the

basketball team, volleyball team, roller hockey team, I was even into badminton. I took martial arts for six years. I can fight if I have to but I avoid it as much as I can. If I get hit in the head for the next six months it could kill me.”

As the oldest of four kids, Jason grew up hunting big game animals with his dad and shot his first moose when he was 11. That continued into adulthood and he was always able to keep the family freezer full of meat. He was living in his van and had his hunting rifles with him the day he got arrested two years ago.

A police tactical unit swarmed the vehicle his friend was driving and he was charged with unlawful storage and possession of firearms and unlawful handling of firearms. Jason had a previous criminal record for possession of cocaine for purposes of trafficking and during that arrest he had his hunting rifle locked in the trunk of his car.

He spent about five months in jail.

“I was out on a promise to appear when I got these other charges,” he said. “The way they read the charges it made me look like a fricking savage. I’ve never had a violent charge, I avoid trouble as much as I can. I should have fought it but the lawyer said just take the deal. Now it’s on my record and it makes you look like shit.”

He served his time in the Prince George Correctional Centre and after his release he thought he was turning his life around for the better, living in a rented house that overlooked Babine Lake. But he was forced to move when the owners decided to sell the property. Jason has a brother and two sisters and remains close to his family but he knows going back to live with his parents in Dawson Creek in not an option. One of his sisters lives there with her kids and money is tight.

Unable to find an affordable place to rent in Smithers or Houston, he got on the train and came to Prince George two days before Christmas in 2022.

“I’ve been on the street ever since,” he said.

Jason spent some time over the summer living in the former Millenium Park encampment but refuses to set up a camp at Moccasin Flats on the east side of downtown.

“I won’t stay down there, look how

many people are in shootings or their places are being burned down,” he said.

Treatment centre steering him away from street drugs

Now 37, Jason started using cocaine and crack when he was 20. Treatment programs helped him stop. He was addicted to fentanyl and other opioids for years but is well down the path to getting straight.

After getting a doctor’s prescription he’s been a regular at the Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT) Clinic on Alward Street, where he receives methadone and suboxone injections in a supervised clinical setting. OAT clients are given access to counselling, education, support, community and treatment referrals and naloxone kits.

“It actually works good, I’m pretty much staying off fentanyl,” he said.

“I’ve used it a few times, here and there, but for the most part I’m off of it.

Now that I’m off fentanyl, I occasionally use methamphetamine.”

Known as crystal meth, he says because he has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder the drug affects him differently than most people.

“Because of my ADHD it does the opposite of bringing me up where you’re bouncing of the walls, it actually levels me out,” he said. “Amphetamine is pretty much the main thing that’s in Ritalin.”

His downward slide started soon after he lost custody rights over his daughter, who is now six and was privately adopted.

“When she was born I wanted to take custody because her mother didn’t want her, but I lost the fight there,” he said. “Her mother put (on paper) that the was father was unknown. As soon as the judge threw out my case, that was pretty much when I started (using fentanyl).

“I would love to be part of her life, but I know the mother’s biological mom (family friend) and she said her granddaughter is in a good home with two good parents and that’s all that matters to me.”

Jason holds out hope that one day, when he’s completely clean and sober and back on his feet financially, once she’s old enough to be told the truth, he will make contact and introduce himself as her father.

“I’ve got to get back to proper housing and get my mind straight again and get back in touch with my family, he said.

“I’ve got a stepson here and I’ve only seen my granddaughter once. He’s 17 and he’s having problems too with the ministry and lost (custody of) the kid and he’s got another one on the way. He’s making me a grandfather way too early. I wish I could be there to help them but I’m not in that position.”

TED CLARKE

Derek Brown of Nechako Bottle Depot sorts out the bottles and cans brought in by Jason, a man who has lived on the streets of Prince George and Dawson Creek for nearly six years and is struggling to get his life back together again.

Out and About in Prince George

Prince George Citizen photographer Chuck Nisbett was out and about in Prince George during the weekend. Take a look at what he found.

Local skip Chris Moir reacts to a shot during the fifth end of the Kelly Cup final Sunday at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club, while Garrett Overton, in black, and Robert Hough, right, of the Overton rink watch the action from behind him. The Moir rink went on to defeat Overton 9-5, taking the Kelly Cup for the second straight year.

Local car enthusiasts gathered Saturday morning to admire and discuss local hotrods at the Central Street Tim Horton’s. This Saturdays’ cars included a 1952 Pontiac (front) owned by event organizer Daniel Forbes, that he has been heavily modified and has work left to be done before it is complete. A 1956 Ford Fairlane (centre) owned by Bernie Mckay, that has been on the road for 11 years and now, in its seventh version, features a Ford 427 developing over 500hp and a six-speed manual transmission. The pickup is a 1967 Chevy shortbox stepside owned by Doug Olsen, that was brought back to life last year is also on its way to completion.

Three time Canadian Olympic team member and former Caledonia Nordic Ski Club product Megan Tandy traveled from her home in Germany to accept her induction into the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame Saturday night at the Ramada Inn. Tandy expressed her gratitude to her family, coaches and all the volunteers and dedicated people that provided her the opportunity to achieve the success she had as a member of the national biathlon squad. Tandy started her biathlon career at the age of 12 and competed for 14 years before her retirement in 2019. She represented Canada at the Vancouver Olympics in 2010, the Seoul Olympics in 2014 and the PyeongChang Olympics in 2018 as well as six world championship appearances and numerous World Cup appearances.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

CITIZEN PHOTOS BY CHUCK NISBETT

Spices, flowers and microgreens

Prince George Citizen photographer Chuck Nisbett stopped by the Prince George Farmers’ Market on Saturday. Here is a look at what he saw.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Jessica Bandstra picked up supplies to make naan bread from Asha Dhak, of Ashi’s Rasoi Spices at the Farmers Market Saturday morning. Dhak and her husband make all the spice mixes which include recipes and instructions on how to make various Indian dishes.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Kennedy Klein, 6, thanks Anna Gerrard of Peterson Farms North for a free tulip while shopping at the Farmers Marker with her sisters Liberty, 10, Mariey, 4, and mother Tianna.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Brian and Marilyn Mcleod purchased fresh microgreens from Sharri Harfman of Aspen Hill Farm at the Farmers Market Saturday morning.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Shoppers leaving the Farmers Marker enjoy the blues issuing from the harmonica of Johnnymack Williams Saturday morning. Williams treated passersby to country, gospel and blues as he enjoyed the sunny morning.

Upcoming events in Prince George

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Spring Book Sale at the Prince George Public library, Bob Harkins branch, goes April 12 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. for members of the Friends of the Prince George Public Library. Membership can be purchased at the door for $5. On Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the book sale presented by the Friends of the Library is open to the general public. This is a cash only sale. Please bring a bag to carry your treasures out.

***

Design a Stunning Perennial Garden on Friday, April 12 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Hunniford Gardens, 845 Aquarius Road. Want a beautiful sustainable garden but don’t know where to start? This workshop will answer all the questions of best location, what perennials, shrubs, trees and vines to use. How to shape and size your garden, as well as offer advice on effective plant compositions for spring to fall colour and all the rest of the details to get you started and to maintain your garden. Cost is $45 plus tax. To reserve a spot call 250-967-4325. ***

YXS at Nelly’s Pub, 2280 John Hart Highway goes Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. each night. YXS will be playing a great variety of Country, Rock and Pop songs, so bring your dancing shoes and friends and join Mike Smith, Dave Rubadeau, Cat McCarthy and Brad Martin for some fun.

***

Petunia & The Vipers goes Friday, April 12 at 9 p.m. at the PG Legion, 101-1116 Sixth Ave. A new music that springboards off of music of the past and jumps into the present day, something between 1920s and steam punk. Advance tickets are $20 at www. madloon.ca or $25 at the door.

***

Truent with special guests Cynnical and Hot Boii Summer goes Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m. at Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St. Truent is a progressive death metal band from Vancouver who will be playing alongside local hard rock and heavy metal favourites Cynnical and Prince George’s newest

pop punk band: Hot Boii Summer! Brought to you in collaboration with Infectious Nation, AV Promotions & Cole Pruden. Advance tickets are $10 or $20 at the door. All ages are welcome. Advance tickets available at Little Caesars Spruceland. Cash only please.

***

Chris Goodwin at Trench goes Saturday, April 13 at p.m. at 399 Second Ave. Recording artist Chris Goodwin is a Prince George born and raised singer/songwriter. He has been performing country originals and covers around our city for the last 6 years. Goodwin has a sound influenced by 90’s-00’s country music with live performances that are highly energetic.

***

NorthBreast Passage Dragon Boat Society presentation goes April 18 at 7 p.m. at UHNBC, with deadline to register on Wednesday, April 17 by emailing northbp2016@outlook.com. A guest speaker talking about their work experiences at the BC Cancer clinic and volunteering at the BC Cancer Foundation. After the session dragon boaters will welcome questions from women interested in trying out dragon boating in Prince George. Those attending can meet a dragon boat member in the main entrance of UHNBC at 6:45 p.m. as doors are locked at 7 p.m. Everyone will go to the meeting room from there.

***

Improv Shmimprov do 420 goes Saturday, April 20 at 8 p.m. at Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St. Improv is skipping happily into the flowing fields of the new season that includes Improv Theatre Games on stage for your enjoyment. Come on out and check out the venue. There’s new games and the goal is to ensure the audience will have a good time. There’s a cash bar and snacks. Tickets are $20 at Eventbrite.ca/e/ improv-shmimprov-do-420-tickets

***

The Chevys Show goes Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Deadfall Brewing Company, 1733 Nicholson St. S. The Chevys bring a rockabilly show. There’s no cover but tips are welcome.

Alex Kusturok, Chloe Davidson, Nolan Murray and Bruce Coughlan who will provide two days of top notch workshops in four levels of fiddle and intermediate guitar. Cost is $250 or $200 before April 10. This includes two days of instruction, lunches and snacks, Friday night dance and reduced Saturday night concert ticket. For more information or to register visit www.bcfiddlers@ gmail.com/prince-george, email pgfiddlers@gmail.com or call (250) 565-1025.

***

Prince George Spring Clean Up goes Sunday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join forces with friends and neighbours during the annual Spring Clean Up on Sunday, April 21. Help make our parks, school yards, streets, and trails shine by volunteering to pick up litter between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Bags and gloves are available for all participants and a limited number of sharps containers will be available upon request. Once you’ve registered, pick up your gear at City Hall between April 15 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Register today to get first dibs on the area you’d like to clean up: www.princegeorge.ca/ SpringCleanUp

***

BC Old Time Fiddlers Family Dance goes Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m. downstairs at Knox Performance Centre, 1448 Fifth Ave. The Family Dance and Ice Cream Social is part of the Old Time Fiddlers annual Spring Jamboree and everyone is welcome. Dance the old-time dances to live fiddle music, take part in group dances (with instruction) and make an ice cream sundae on break. Cost is $10 at the door. Free to Jamboree registrants and under 18 with parents’ supervision.

Spring Fiddle Jamboree goes Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 at the Knox Performance Centre, 1448 Fifth Ave. This is a BC Old Time Fiddlers’ event featuring four award-winning instructors including

BC Old Time Fiddlers’ Fiddle Concert goes Saturday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m., at Knox Performance Centre, 1448 Fifth Ave., featuring four award-winning musicians, including Metis Master Fiddler Alex Kusturok, Kelowna fiddler-singer-songwriter Chloe Davidson, Tiller’s Folley-Whisky Minstrels musicians Nolan Murray and Bruce Coughlan who will present a concert you won’t soon forget. Concert tickets for adults are $35 and $20 for children 5 - 17 and Jamboree Registrants (4 and under free). To purchase tickets for the concert e-transfer to pgfiddlers@ gmail.com or purchase tickets at Books & Co or at the door.

***

2024 Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast goes Saturday, April 27 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre. Enjoy breakfast and a gathering with local leaders and the wider Christian community as together guests will bless the city. Guest speaker is Poncho Murguia. He is from Jaurez Mexico, which was previously the murder capital of the world. He will share how prayer and the gospel are changing his city. To purchase tickets for $30 each visit www.peacemakerspress.ca/events or email info@pgpeacemakers.com for more information.

***

If you’ve got an event coming up email me at cdalgleish@pgcitizen. ca to offer details including name of the event, the date, time and location, ticket price and where to get them and a little bit about what’s happening, too. (LOCF)

The City of Prince George is hosting its annual Spring Clean Up on April 21.

NorthBreast Passage Dragon Boat team starts season with information session

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

The NorthBreast Passage Dragon Boat Society is hosting a presentation with a guest speaker that will share her experiences working at the BC Cancer clinic and volunteering at the BC Cancer Foundation.

The 32-member team is holding the presentation on April 18 at 7 p.m. at UHNBC.

After the presentation team members will welcome questions from women interested in trying out dragon boating in Prince George.

The team is a group of breast cancer survivors and supporters who believe that staying strong physically and mentally benefits themselves and the community.

Doris Delong is the society’s vice president who joined the team in 2012 after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 when she was busy raising her young children.

“Knowing what it’s like to be part of a team and being expected to go to practice and events I delayed joining until I felt I had the time, which ended up being in 2012,” Delong said. “I joined because I was interested in having a group of ladies around me to extend my social network but also

where the boat is stored.

Lately they have been attending the Penticton Dragon Boat Festival in September because that way they can practice for a few months before the big event.

“We hope that people who sign up to be part of the team will be able to attend the majority of practices that are held Wednesday and Sunday,” Delong said.

“Someone once asked me why I like to paddle and my instant, immediate answer was ‘because I like to sweat’ but other than that I just really enjoy paddling, the sights we see as we go,

for support.”

Until 2017 the NorthBreast Passage Dragon Boat team consisted of only breast cancer survivors. At that time it was decided that supporters could be included as part of the team as well and changed their society’s constitution to reflect that.

Right now there are 32 active pad dlers on the team and about half are survivors while others are supporters.

ARIES

If you live with family members, therecould be some tension thisweek. Take the time to establish andclarify the rules to restore harmony and createawarmer atmosphere.

TAURUS

You’ll speakdirectly and will openly express whatothers arethinking.Lear ning how to use your newsmartphonecould prove difficult. This will requireaperiod of adjustment duringwhich you’ll have to be patient.

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Go through your bills to ensuretherearen’tany errors. If you find any,you’ll be able to recover some money or get compensation. At the very least, you’ll benefit from some sort of gain.

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Your patience could be tested in the days ahead. Financial matters will take time to

HOROSCOPES

resolve. Solutions will emerge with time or thanks to agut feeling.

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Deep fatiguewill setinthisweek. You’ll need to take awell-deservedrest. During thistime, you could haveaninspiringrevelation that will help youclarify and createadecisivevisionofyour professional objectives

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You’ll take the lead in agroup andparticipate in many rewarding activities. Stresscouldwear youdownattimes.Itwill be importanttorest before the end of the week to keep your spirits high.

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SCORPIO

If you must work with aclientfromabroad, worries aboutyour language skills could arise. Rest assured; you’ll exceed your own expectations. Ashorttrainingcourse could help you feel moreeaseful with your boss or customers.

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Acareer change could take you back to school Patience andhardwork could help you out of a precariousfinancial situation andhelp you find better employmentprospects

CAPRICORN

Youdon’toftenhesitate whenfaced with importantdecisions. However,thistime, it’s importanttoweigh the pros andcons. New information could emerge at the lastminute,

shedding light on the various options.

AQUARIUS

At work, you’llberesponsible for dealing withemergencies and unsatisfied customers

Fortunately, your positive attitudewill help defuse tense situations and resolve problems effectively.You’llbequite adeptatsellingor negotiating thisweek.

PISCES

You’llaccomplish aremarkable feat in one way or another.You’llreceive warm applause and recognition. Youcouldeven demonstrateyour heroism by saving someone from adisaster,for example

NorthBreast Passage Dragon Boat team is seen here at the 2023 Penticton Dragon Boat Festival.

Throwback Thursday: Week of April 11

The April 10, 1924, front page of the Citizen announced that a provincial election was coming in the middle of June or early in July.

The biggest issue? Whether to legalize selling beer by the glass, with a separate plebiscite planned to decide whether prohibition would remain in place.

Inside the paper, two entire pages were devoted to the City of Prince George’s financial statements for 2023.

The city’s expenses for that year totaled $157,060.10, with more than $21,000 devoted to schools. The fire department cost $4,995.14 and police services cost $8,516.90

The April 13, 1944, Citizen reported that Prince George city council voted to issue 20-year serial bonds paying four per cent annual interest to finance the city’s $96,000 share of a new junior-secondary high school expected to costs about $150,000.

Before the bonds could go on sale, however, Prince George voters had to approve of the expense in a special vote.

“The most important consideration in the junior-senior high school question is that it is needed,” John McInnis told the Citizen.

After McInnis died in 1972, the Prince George school district named the new high school on Westwood Drive after him. The school remains today as the school district’s Centre For

Learning Alternatives.

Two 11-year-old Prince George boys ran away from home on April 11, 1954, and got all the way to 100 Mile House in just 24 hours, the April 12 Citizen reported.

Douglas Rumley and Bryan “Butch” Milne had been last seen at 11 a.m. and were reported missing at 5:30 p.m. Numerous radio bulletins were issued and it was learned the hitchhiking boys had received a ride as far as the Prince George airport.

Quesnel RCMP were alerted but a took an alert constable in 100 Mile House to stop the boys for questioning when he saw them. ***

The Citizen’s Pete Miller was on the scene Saturday night to take photos in the aftermath of a two-car head-on collision at 15th and Central, which appeared on the front page of the April 13, 1964, edition of the Citizen.

Three people were sent to hospital with broken knees, serious lacerations and concussions. Both vehicles were written off.

The big story of the day, however, was the outrage coming out of Fort St. James after Prince George Mayor Garvin Dezell suggested building a replica of the original Fort St. James fort on the top of Connaught Hill.

“If Prince George builds a model of our fort, every airplane owner in this town will dive-bomb it,” declared Fort St. James machine shop owner Russ Hallock. “They have no right to capitalize on our fort. Doesn’t Prince George have anything of its own of historical interest?” ***

A Dave Milne photo on the April 10, 1974, front page of the Citizen featured workers laying bricks for a new $14-million mall near the intersection of Highways 16 and 97. It was referred to as the Kelfor Shopping Centre when it was being built but it became known as Pine Centre.

Another front page photo from Milne in the Citizen on April 11 featured Troy and Kim Wahl petting a bunny in advance of the upcoming Easter holiday.

***

Wood chip dump operator Bob Collison was pictured at the controls at Northwood Pulp on the front page of April 10, 1984, edition of the Citizen.

The photo accompanied a story explaining how the 1,200 pulp and paper workers at the city’s three pulp mills were back on the job for the first time in 69 days. They were part

of the 13,000 unionized members in 20 mills across B.C. ordered back to work by a B.C. Labor Relations Board ruling to end their eight-day strike, which started after the companies ended their 61-day lockout. ***

Back in the good old days, Prince George residents were happy to give blood.

The April 13, 1994, Citizen front page featured another Milne photo showed Mike Vogel donating blood under the watchful eye of his threeyear-old son, Jeffrey. Vogel was one of about 550 residents who gave blood on the first-day of a three-day clinic at the Civic Centre. ***

One more Milne photo, this time from the April 13, 2004, Citizen front page, featuring little slugger Morgan Samuelson, 9, taking a big swing at a ball thrown by her dad while at the park over the Easter weekend.

Neil Godbout is the former editor of the Prince George Citizen and a current member of the Prince George Heritage Commission.

Check out what ’s happening this week...

CITIZEN ARCHIVES PHOTO

CITIZEN ARCHIVES PHOTO

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Life Events

REMEMBRANCES

Meredith Catherine Bogle

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Meredith Catherine Bogle. Meredith was born and raised in Prince George. We often said she knew everyone in the community.

Meredith spent her youth involved in many sports and activities. She loved to snowboard and ski, and enjoyed years playing ringette and soccer. You may be surprised to learn that she was an accomplished Highland dancer. She competed in Highland Dancing Competitions in Nova Scotia and also showed promise on the violin.

In 1994, Meredith earned her Bachelor of Arts as a member of UNBC’s inaugural class. She went on to receive her Masters of Education (Coaching Studies) from the University of Victoria in 1996. She then returned to Prince George to work at Pacific Sport and Intersect, making a difference in the lives of youth for many years.

In 2016, to the surprise of many, Meredith or “Mer”, opened Victory Paint & Mercantile with her long-time friend and co-worker JP. She thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of opening a business, and loved meeting so many different people through her work. She was very proud of this store and enjoyed all those who stopped in for a coffee or a breakfast sandwich.

We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to our extended family in Nova Scotia, and across North America. We are grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness from all.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Drs.’ Neary, Preston and Mader. You went above and beyond. An additional thank you to Dr. Sainchuk for having those difficult conversations with compassion and honesty. You felt what we were going through and it showed.

Thank you also to the nurses in Emergency, IMU: Angela, Georgia and Amal and many others. Thank you to Jen K for helping us navigate such a difficult time. Lastly, to the staff at Hospice House thank you for your empathy and kindness.

Meredith cherished her friends and family above all else, as we cherished her. We must acknowledge the outpouring of kindness from all her friends, which has been truly overwhelming. Meredith was certainly touched by it! We will all miss her kindly spirit, colourful language and unmistakable laugh.

Meredith will be forever missed by her mother Anne Bogle, sister Nancy (Michel) Bogle, brother John (Allison) Bogle, nieces and nephews Duncan, Lucy, George, Clara, Sam, dear friend and business partner JP, her extended family, and many friends. Meredith was predeceased by her father John “Harold” Bogle.

Meredith’s celebration of life will take place at 1:30PM on April 14th at the Marriott Hotel, 900 Brunswick Street, Prince George.

Donations in memorial can be made to the Prince George Community Foundation- Bogle Endowment.

REMEMBRANCES

Celebration of Life for Ken Pfeifer

1942-2023

Will be held on Saturday April 20th 2024 in the St. Eugene Room of St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1125 Freeman St.

From 1:00 p.m. till 5:00p.m. Light refreshments will be served Ken, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away after a lengthy illness. We invite his friends and loved ones to join his family and celebrate his life, sharing our favourite stories of Ken that include his love of fishing and hunting.

Linda Clemmons (Allison)

May 5, 1950 - January 31, 2024

Linda Clemmons (nee Allison), 73, passed away peacefully with her family by her side.

Born in Victoria, BC she was predeceased by parents Dorothy & Arthur Allison.

Linda spent her working career at Prince George Regional Hospital, retiring to move to Surrey BC.

She leaves behind sons Chad, Brad (April), sisters Madeline, Barbara (Les) many Nephews, Niece and her four grandchildren whom she loved so much.

She passed too soon and will be tremendously missed.

In remembrance to Linda a donation in her honour could be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Rhett Matthew Cole

November 20, 1955 - March 23, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rhett Cole on March 23, 2024. He is survived by his beloved wife Wendy and son Zachary. Predeceased by his parent’s Thomas and Annie as well as numerous aunts and uncles.

Rhett was born in Chilliwack, BC. During his early years his father ran a motorcycle shop, and this began his love of motorcycles and his hobby for life (he was known for his love of collecting a Spanish bike called Bultaco). In 1964 the family moved to Prince Rupert, BC and resided there until 1968 before moving to Prince George where it became his forever home.

He was an only child, but he made up for that by having a huge friend base and many of those friends became more like family to him. He was always checking in with his friends to ensure that he never lost their connection. He valued his friendships more than you can imagine.

Rhett attended Lakewood Junior High School and then moved over to Prince George Senior Secondary School for Grade 11 & 12. Summer of 1973, he worked as a summer student with Department of Highways as a slash burner. April 23,1974, he worked as a “floater” with them until around 1980 when he became a Tech and began his life’s work around Benkleman Beaming which became his main expertise during his 28 years working with what was now called Ministry of Transportation. He continued working in that field even after he left the ministry and became a private contractor as of 2002 until he retired in June of 2021.

He retired hoping to spend it doing fun things like restoring more of his Bultaco bike collection, travelling and spending time with family and friends. He did not get to do some of these once he was diagnosed in December 2022 with a rare brain disease called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. It was very aggressive, and he started to decline very rapidly from it. He kept his upbeat attitude after he was diagnosed, saying to many “that you didn’t have to look too far to see that someone had it worse than you”. That was just the kind of guy he was.

A Celebration of life will be held April 22, 2024, at 10 am. at Assman’s Funeral Chapel, 1908 Queensway Street, Prince George, BC.

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.

For surely there’s always tomorrow To make up for an oversight, And we always get a second chance To make everything just right.

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

Take time to say “I’m sorry,” “Please forgive me,” “Thank you,” or “It’s okay.”

Adele Johnson (Kofoed) 1935-2024

Our Mother, Adele passed away peacefully on Monday April 1, 2024.

Adele Johnson (Kofoed) was one of eight children, the third eldest, born August 28, 1935 to Charles and Agnes Kofoed. The Kofoed Clan have been rooted in the Terrace community for over a century now. The original Kofoed home was located in Thornhill where she resided with the rest of the family until 1958, when she married. Her first son Karl was born in Terrace, and after a short time, she relocated to Prince George having two more children Anthony (Tony) and daughter Susan. We mourned the tragic loss of her daughter, our sister in 1974. She spent most of her adult life raising her remaining sons in the Prince George area and the town of Hixon BC. She opted to retire and return to her Terrace roots in 1997 where she settled in her home on Soucie Street. She spent her retirement years, working with the Sacred Heart CWL, and spending time in her, ever blooming flower garden.

She is survived by her brothers George, Tom, her sisters, Dianne, Betty Jean, and Anne. Her brother Chuck (Charles) passed recently and her sister Johanne passed in 2016.

She leaves a legacy of two sons, Karl and Anthony (Tony) Prekaski along with 3 grandchildren, Skylar, Miranda, & Madelin.

Adele loved spending time with family and friends, always enjoying a good laugh. She was known for her quick wit, which could be either caustic or comedic exploring every variant in between. Despite this, she had a huge heart. She lived and loved life on her terms.

She will be sadly missed by us all.

For those who would like to honor her, we will gather at the Sacred Heart Church, Terrace, BC, 11 am Tuesday April 9th followed by a light lunch.

Peter Frank Fremmerlid 1941-2024

Our family sadly announces the passing of Peter Frank Fremmerlid in Prince George on March 29, 2024.

Peter was born in Vancouver, B.C. on Oct.13, 1941. In Vancouver, Peter developed his love of baseball, cars and music. He learned guitar and began playing in many bands and events in the early days of Vancouver rock’n’roll with notable names, starting at John Oliver High School.

In 1959, Peter moved to Prince George where he continued to pursue music. There he worked as a postal carrier, a Rocky Mountain Ranger, and then as a purchaser at BC Rail Materials Management until retirement.

He met the love of his life, Marilynn Bilokrely, in P.G. and in 1966 they married. Three daughters, Dayna (Steve), Leigh (Brent), and Kelly and four grandsons (Aaron, Aiden, Nolan, Scott) came along during their 52 years together.

Bowling at Nechako Lanes was a highlight with many tournaments (and a perfect game!) over the years, as were the ball tournaments at BC Rail.

Throughout his life, Peter (Pete Love) continued to play guitar in many bands. From the living room or front lawn at 8th and Laurier, to Danceland, to the far and local venues and clubs, he entertained many and even made a couple of albums! So many band names over the years like Snuffy and the Hired Hands, None of the Above and The Rae King Blues Band, just to name a few. Along with many lifelong friends, Peter’s son-inlaw Steve Smith joined him on the stage for many years.

Peter had a funny, clever wit and was full of information and had many tales to tell. He loved to share TV, movies and music. Peter loved his family and the long days of spring and summer. We will miss him. Survived by his daughters and their families, 8 brothers and sisters and their families.

Predeceased by his wife Marilynn, parents Peter and Frankie Fremmerlid and parents-in-law Anne and Bill Bilokrely.

Play on Dad. We Love You.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Peter’s memory for Prince George Hospice would be appreciated.

Please feel free to share stories or memories with us.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

In Loving Memory of Grant Alexander Bohnet

July 20, 1951- March 18, 2024

Grant Bohnet (72) died peacefully in his home on March 18, 2024 in San Tan Valley, Arizona. There will be a private family graveside service on April 13, 2024 at San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms, followed by a reception with the family at his house. Please RSVP for the reception at pamelamiles001@gmail.com for the address. If unable to attend, a live streaming link will be emailed to you upon request. Memorial donations in Grant’s name can be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or the National Parks Service (NPS). You can read the full obituary at www.santanmemorial.com

Wesley Thomas Andrews Collins

1968-2024

It is with true sadness that we announce the passing of Wesley Thomas Andrews Collins, a long-time resident of Prince George, British Columbia, who passed away on March 22nd 2024. Wes was surrounded by family and loved ones throughout his battle with cancer. Wes was born in Dawson Creek February 16th1968.

Wes was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Collins, stepfather, Roy Randle, and brother, Christopher Collins.

Wes survived by long time loving partner, Frances Motz, daughter, Megan Motz, son, Robert Motz, mother, Yvonne Collins Randle, sisters, Arlette Collins, Nadina Collins, brother, Leonard Collins, nephews, Ronnie Andrews and Aaron Andrews, and godmother, Elizabeth Laderoute. Wes also had numerous aunts and uncles who are left to mourn his passing.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 am on April 4th, 2024, at Prince George Funeral Service. Reverand Michael will officiate. Burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Lunch will be provided.

REMEMBRANCES

Bernadette Marie Reay (Dette)

1945-2024

Bernadette Marie Reay (Dette), 78, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024, in Prince George, BC.

Dette was born in the Netherlands on June 25, 1945, and immigrated to Canada in 1952 at the age of seven. She married the love of her life Dennis in Victoria, BC on April 25, 1969. They lived together there for three years before relocating to Prince George in September 1972.

Dette is survived by a loving network of family and friends, most notably her husband of 55 years Dennis, her two children: Kertis Reay (Amber) and Cynthia Thomson (Owen), her four grandchildren: Eileen, Danielle, Tyler, and Molly, her two brothers Robert and Rick, her sister Olga, and her sister of the heart Pauline.

Dette was devoted to her family and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. She also loved to travel. In the early years it was family trips to Disneyland and Vancouver Island. In later years trips to Europe, The Caribbean, Hawaii, and her annual trips to Mexico that she looked forward to the most.

Dette enjoyed the personal contacts, and lifetime friendships she made during her career as a hair stylist. She was an avid reader, loved music and dancing along with numerous hobbies that showcased her creativity.

We would like to thank all the wonderful staff at Rainbow Lodge Adult Daycare, Gateway Lodge, and the Northern Health team #5. Your Positive attitude and kindness reassured our family that Dette was in good hands and well looked after during her visits.

A very Special thank you to Dr. Devan Reddy. We are extremely lucky to have a family physician that is so committed, caring, and compassionate.

There will be no service as per Dette’s wishes.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.

Ralph (Ralphie) Gohl

1963-2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph (Ralphie) Gohl on March 25 2024 in Prince George, B.C. Ralph was born on July 5, 1963 and was an accomplished Builder. Ralphie enjoyed listening to music and being with his many friends and acquaintances. He is survived by his sister Doris, brother Edgar, father Waldemar as well his nephews, cousins and many, many friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Amalie. A Graveside Memorial Service for Ralphie will be held on Saturday April 13th 2024 at 11:30 am at Prince George Memorial Park Cemetery. A Celebration of his life will follow at the Black Clover Pub 1165 5th Avenue Prince George Saturday April 13th from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.

Nov. 21st,1933Nov. 6th, 2023

Come celebrate Georgina’s amazing life with family and friends. April 13th, 1:00pm4:00pm, at the Twisted Cork (main floor) 1157- 5th Ave. Please join us and share your memories

Georgina May Ward (nee Henry)

Obituaries

Obituaries Memorial Services

Memorial Services

Home Services

• Handyman

• Painting

• Framing

• Flooring

• Trims

• Electrical

• Snow/ Lawn (250) 277-1924

TREE WORX Bucket Truck Hedging and tree removal For free estimates call or text Brian at 250-649-8447

Call for Brush and Yard work. Brush cutting, large or small jobs, Tree cutting, Limbing, Hedge trimming. Lawn maintenancethatching, fertilizing, grass cutting, weed trimming. Early spring clean up, Property clean up, can haul debris and garbage away. Call the Man with a truckDuncan 250-552-1937

5X5 round hay bales, $275 each- net wrapped, barn stored. 250-614-6667 2011 8400 QUAD Lamtrac Mulcher. M11 Cummins engine, 4000 hrs. $165,000. 250-614-6667 or 250-568-2338 For Sale -Two (2) 2018 Kenworth T800 Tri-dem IXS550 Cummins dump trucks . 21.5” gravel boxes & wet kits, near new rubber. $230,000.00 each. (250)614-6667

BUYING ALL SILVER! WANTED 9999 BULLION, BARS, COINS, ROUNDS, ALL SILVER COINS, PRE 1968 COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, FRANKLIN MINT SETS, OLD STERLING SILVER, COIN COLLECTIONS +++ ALSO BUYING GOLD!!! TODD 25O 864 3521

COLLECTOR PURCHASING COINS & COIN COLLECTIONS! BUYING OLD COINS, ROLLS OF COINS, BANK BAGS OF COINS, RARE COINS, COLLECTOR COINS, OLYMPIC COINS, OLD PAPER MONEY, PRE 1968 COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, US MINT, COLLECTIONS +. WANTED CANADA, USA & WORLD COLLECTIONS! Todd’s Coins 1-250-8643521

BIRCH Firewood in 20 foot lengths. Delivered by dumptruck load. $1100. or bucked to length $1300 per load delivered 250614-6667

I am moving to Thailand and have dozens of household items for sale at rock bottom prices. Call 250-570-7155

REVOLVING TRAY JEWELRY DISPLAY CABINETS Top lock and locking back slide doors 36” wide X 42” high 5 Available. $350 each Negotiable on all five. 250-612-1828

All models, old, new, damaged or parts req’d. Top prices paid.

For viewing call 250-612-1808 Available 24/7

BUYING OLD JEWELRY, COINS, OLD MONEY, COIN COLLECTIONS, 9999 BARS & COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, COIN SETS, WORLD $$$ COLLECTIONS ++ TODD 25O 864 3521

Genuine Rolex watches, all models, old, new, damaged or parts req’d. Top prices paid subject to viewing. Gold, two-tone, tri-color & Stainless. Available 24/7

250-612-1808

For all gold, Estate jewelry, coins & currency, antiques. Unbeatable pricing, privacy assured. (250) 612-1808 24/7

BUYING COIN COLLECTIONS! OLD COINS, ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, OLD PAPER MONEY, GOLD COINS, SILVER COINS, COIN SETS, COLLECTOR COINS, WORLD MONEY COLLECTIONS, FRANKLIN MINT SETS, ALL 9999 BULLION, COINS, BARS, INGOTS, WAFERS, MAPLE LEAFS ++++ TODD 25O 864 3521

BLACK PRESS - CLASSIFIEDS

R0011948248

3.00x28.0-4C

PG11 / 615595 Kersley Community

Complex Facility and Operations Manager

The Kersley Recreation Commission is seeking a qualified person to fill the position of Facility and Operations Manager for the Kersley Community Complex. This is a contract position offering $50,000 annually and involves both maintenance and administrative responsibilities. If you would like more information, please call Roy Teed at 250-747-2459 or send an email to kersleyrec@gmail.com. Please submit resumes no later than noon on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

NorthwestChild DevelopmentCentreisexpanding rapidly, andweare lookingfor skilled, passionate individualstojoinour team –spanning from Vanderhoof to Terrace, we have open positions within ourteams!

Relocation,recruitment,and retentionbonuses availablefor theright person!Wewillholdmeet andgreetsfollowedbyonsiteinterviewsin Prince George throughout themonths of Apriland May2024.

THIS WEEKEND! GARAGE SALES

PositionsAvailable:

Atlin/ DeaseLakeArea Occupational Therapist SpeechLanguagePathologist

Smithers /Hazeltons /Houston DevelopmentalConsultant

Supported Child& YouthConsultant

Supported Child& YouthWorkerx2 SupportWorker TherapyAssistant EarlyYears Family Resource Navigator

BurnsLake/ Vanderhoof /FortSt. James Physiotherapist Occupational Therapist

Want to learnmore? ReachusatHR@nwcdc.ca

Do yourequire accommodation during theapplicant andrecruitment phase? Please contactus.

NWCDCiscommitted to diversity, equity and inclusionthroughoutthe recruitment and employment process.

LIEN ACT

Sidorov Sports Consultants 1995 Volvo 850 YV1LS5514S2190280 1,691.19

Alicia Dawn Wisla 2003 Cadillac Escalade 1GYEK63N93R240183 1,837.10

Alan Checkley 2018 Nissan Titan 1N6AA1Cj&JN522475 1,934.43

1N4BL11D12C150293 2,044.49

David

1C3CCCFB5FN618655 2,201.35

ChuCho Forestry Ltd. FOREST OPERATIONS MAP#

ChuCho Forestry FLA94309 2024-1

ChuCho Forestry’s Operations Map# ChuCho Forestry FLA94309 2024-1,publicreviewand comment from April11-May12, 2024,at link below, or in person by appointment Mon-Fri8am-4pm.Contact theforestrydepartment at theemail or phonenumberbelow in ordertoscheduleanappointment.1200Millroad, Mackenzie, BC, V0J2C0.ThisFOM is applicable for3 yearsand mayberelied upon to applyfor acutting or road permit to harvesta cutblock or constructa road displayedonthe FOM. 250-645-4982 fom@chuchoforestry.com https:// fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

IN THE MATTER OF THEBANKRUPTCYOF JaronRichardSucholotosky

NOTICE is herebygiven thatJaron RichardSucholotosk y filed an AssignmentinBank ruptcy on March28, 2024, and that John S. Beverley &AssociatesI nc.was appointedasTrustee. The first meeting of creditors will be held on the 17th dayofApr il,2024 at the hour of 9:00 in the mor ning,atthe office of the Trustee,1240 5thAvenue,inthe city of Pr inceG eorge,inthe ProvinceofBritish Columbia.

DatedatPrinceGeorge,BC this 2nd dayof April, 2024.

BigSteelBox Corp located at 337400 North Parallel Road, Abbotsford, BC. claims a PPSA Lien Against Wiebe, Lance of Prince George, BC, for arrears of container rent amounting to $1,224.58 plus any additional costs of storage that accrue. If not paid in full, the contents of the storage container filled with what we believe to be furniture, mattresses, and other miscellaneous items will be sold online auction via Ibid4Storage.com on April 14, 2024.

Avoid these four mistakes when buying furniture

Have a room to furnish? For a final result that’s as practical as it is pretty, avoid making these four common mistakes.

1. BUYING WITHOUT MEASURING FIRST

In store, your perception of size can play tricks on you. It’s hard to accurately picture what a given object will look like in a different space. That’s why it’s crucial that you measure the room you’ll be putting the piece of furniture in as well as the width of the doorways it’ll have to pass through. This will allow you to determine whether that couch you’re eying is the right fit for your family room. Keep in mind that just because it can fit doesn’t mean it should — massive furniture in a small space creates an oppressive atmosphere.

2. ONLY CONSIDERING THE LOOKS

Gorgeous chairs that stop being comfortable when you sit on them for more than 20 seconds. An impossible-to-clean designer couch in a household with young children. A beautiful bookcase that’s too delicate to hold your encyclopedia collection. Avoid disappointment by carefully

considering the function of each piece of furniture before you break out your wallet.

3. THINKING SHORT-TERM

Does your son have his heart set on a race car shaped bed? Kids grow up fast — you’ll likely end up having to buy new furniture before you know it. For a design that stands the test of time, go with neutral furniture and personalize the room with accessories, which are a lot easier to replace as trends change.

4. OVER-FURNISHING

It’s easy to feel claustrophobic in a cluttered room. Instead of packing too many pieces of furniture into one space, choose items with multiple uses such as futons or tables that double as storage.

Have your room measurements on hand when shopping for furniture.

Choosing a chair for your home office

Setting up a home office space? Here are a few points to consider when it comes to choosing a chair.

First off, if the whole family will be using the chair, it’s a good idea to choose one that has multiple adjustment settings. If it’s only going to be used for a few minutes each day, however, you can choose pretty much any model you’d like — no one will be sitting long enough for it to become uncomfortable. If you’ll be using it for work, shop at a specialized retailer and look for the following characteristics:

• A seat that’s adjustable in height. It should also pivot and swivel to adapt to various working postures as well as support your thighs without putting extra pressure on your knees.

• A backrest that provides support up to the shoulder blades. It should also be adjustable toward both the front and the back. Look for one that’s curved similarly to the natural arch of your back.

• Armrests that can be adjusted in height. If your shoulders are particularly narrow or broad, being able to adjust the width of the armrests might also be a plus.

• A base that has at least five legs (for stability) and whose wheels are suitable for the type of flooring in your home office.

• Components that are easy to adjust without getting up from the chair. Finally, don’t hesitate to test various chairs for a few minutes at a time.

In the mood to add some character to your kitchen? Here are four ways to embellish that empty space between your cabinets and ceiling.

1. ADD PLANTS

Create a natural environment tailored to each season by playing up the space with a beautiful selection of plants and other types of vegetation. Opt for tropical plant varieties in the summer that you’ll replace with colourful foliage and decorative gourds and pumpkins come fall. Garlands of pine are an excellent choice for the winter season, while bright, pastel-coloured flowers are perfect for spring.

2. DISPLAY YOUR CHINA

If you have decorative dinnerware, show it off. You could also use the empty space above your cabinets to store your everyday dishes in colourful fabric baskets.

If you choose a fabric-covered chair, make sure the upholstery is resistant to wear and tear (at least 100,000 double rubs).

3. ADD WALLPAPER

Brighten up the space above your cabinets with wallpaper. Make sure to choose colours and designs that will complement the style of your kitchen nicely.

4. CREATE A PERSONAL LIBRARY

If you own a collection of books, keep them on top of your cabinets and embellish the space with handcrafted bookends made from kitchen accessories. You could use a set of antique jugs or colourful cast-iron cookware, for example.

WINDOWS

Are the windows in your home hard to open and close? Are the frames damaged? Is one of them cracked? It should be noted that you can avoid having to prematurely replace your windows by regularly cleaning the tracks, replacing old caulk and performing other maintenance tasks. In addition, hiring a professional to conduct repairs when needed is a must. Nevertheless, it’s best to replace windows that let in a draft, have fog between the panes, show signs of water damage or are in poor condition. Be sure to choose models that have the Energy Star certification.

ROOFING

The roof is an essential component of your home. If properly installed and regularly maintained, it can help keep your home warm and dry for many years. Additionally, numerous roof issues are easy to repair such as damaged shingles or an uneven layer of gravel. However, every roof eventually reaches the end of its lifespan. Have you noticed signs of water damage on the ceiling or in the attic? Are the shingles faded and starting to curl? In these situations, the sensible option is usually to replace the entire roof.

APPLIANCES

There are numerous problems that can plague your appliances. Has your washer stopped spinning? Is your fridge making loud noises? Does your dishwasher leave residue on your glasses? If you consult your user’s manual and perform a few simple tests, you’ll likely be able to locate the source of the issue. In fact, replacing one or more parts is often enough to repair an appliance and prolong its lifespan. Be sure to check whether it’s still under warranty. In other cases, however, the appliance will be beyond repair, or the cost of replacement parts is nearly equal to that of a new model.

LOT1 WESTERNRD.,$219,900

1.2Acres -198 Ft.Frontage

LOT2 WESTERNRD.,$219,900

1.13 Acres-198 Ft.Frontage

LOT4 WESTERNRD.,$219, 900

1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage

LOT5 WESTERNRD.,$219, 900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage

LOT6 WESTERNRD.,$219, 900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage

LOT7 WESTERNRD.,$199,900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage LOT8 WESTERNRD.,$179,900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage LOT9 WESTERNRD.,$209,900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage LOT10WESTERNRD.,$219,900 1.06 Acres-123 Ft.Frontage