Prince George Citizen July 11, 2024

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Pay parking coming to streets around hospital

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Hospital workers, visitors and patients who want to park close to University Hospital of Northern B.C. will soon have an option to extend the length of time they occupy that spot beyond two hours of free parking.

The city is adopting a pay-to-park system in the designated Hot Spot hospital zone that can be accessed through a smartphone application tied to an account that will allow motorists to remotely extend their parking times and avoid being ticketed.

Users will have the option of paying $1 per hour to a maximum of $7 per day through the app to retain their parking spot on streets in the Hot Spot zone.

There will be no change to parking in the area immediately surrounding medical services buildings near the hospital affected by construction of a multi-story parking structure on Lethbridge Street.

PLEASE SEE ‘PARKNG’ ON PAGE 4

Hospital staff, patients and visitors coming to UHNBC should be aware of changes coming to the city’s street parking policy that will soon see pay parking introduced to the area.

Parking can be topped up with an app

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

That will remain a two-hour free parking zone with no option to extend the time.

The digital option for the hospital zone is a convenience that caters to motorists who want to park for the day while also leaving parking spaces for short-term users, council heard Monday night.

Council approved the changes at Monday’s public meeting at city hall and also approved a staff proposal to hire a consultant in the third quarter of this year to modernize the city’s downtown parking bylaws.

The policy was last updated in 2014, when technology that reads and records license plates for bylaw enforcement was introduced.

The roads that will remain as twohour free zones include Alward Street between 10th and 15th Avenue, Laurier Crescent between Edmonton Stret and 10th Avenue, Lethbridge Street from 13th Avenue to Laurier.

This map shows the proposed changes coming to the city’s street parking policy. The streets highlighted in red will be converted to pay parking beyond the first two hours of free parking. The streets in green will remain unchanged as twohour restricted parking zones during the day.

Thirteenth Avenue from Winnipeg Street to Lethbridge Street and Edmonton Street between 15th and 13th

Avenues will remain a no-parking zone to allow quick access for emergency vehicles.

The Hot Spot hospital zone will include Carney Street and Burden Street between 10th and 15th; 13th Ave between Alward and Burden; 12th and 13th Avenues between Carney and Alward; 1500 block of Edmonton St.;1500-1600 block of Alward; and 1800 block of 10th and 11th Avenues.

Staff recommended the review be based on community engagement and will include an evaluation of each city-owned parkade, the possibility of expanding the C1 commercial zone as it applies to parking, and that the city conduct an inventory of the number of the downtown on- and off-street parking spaces.

City bylaws manager Charlotte Peters said it was appropriate the city looks to modernize its parking policies on the same night council received an update to the Official Community Plan for the civic core, because the two go hand in hand.

“If we try to get this right it’s something that will touch every division (including) planning /development, civic operations, finance, and civic facilities and events,” Peters said.

“We would be looking at things like

It’s something that touches almost everybody in Prince George and it’s certainly a very contentious issue and it’s something that hasn’t been looked at in over 10 years.”

accessibility issues, looking at what are we going to do about electric vehicles. Transit could certainly come into play. It’s something that touches almost everybody in Prince George and it’s certainly a very contentious issue and it’s something that hasn’t been looked at in over 10 years.”

Hiring the consultant will go a request for proposal (RFP) process that will be finalized in the third quarter this year, with the new parking strategy report for council to consider in Q2/Q3 of 2025 and implementation in the third quarter.

Peters was asked if there will be any special consideration given to visitors of residents in the Hot Spot parking zones, particularly for overnight visits, so they are not subject to the same restrictions/ fees.

She reminded council that while the two-hour zone will still apply during the day, there are no restrictions or charges for on-street parking in the hospital zone between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m.

She also said most of the tickets handed out by bylaw officers are to hospital staff, and very few were to residents.

Peters also said there will be a need for street signs that will have a QR code for motorists to download that will direct them to the Hot Zone app.

Each $90 sign will come out of the parking budget and she said the total would not likely exceed $1,500.

Peters said although there was initial pushback when the city switched to the Hot Spot app to replace parking passes for its downtown parkades, the system has proven popular with users because it is considered easy to use.

Community safety town hall cost City $21,172

MARK NIELSEN

Special to The Citizen

Hosting the town hall on community safety in late May ran up a $21,173.36 tab for the City.

The figure has been posted on the City’s website, complete with a breakdown of how the money was spent.

At $6,890.27, bringing in former mayor of Golden, B.C. Christina Benty to facilitate the event represented the biggest expense, followed by the cost of audio and visual services at $4,944.45. Next highest was graphic design and printing at $3,601.92, then advertising at $3,866 and hall rental at the Civic Centre at $1,970.72.

Staff had been given a little over a month to put together the event and due to the tight timeline, vendors the City works with regularly were chosen to provide the services rather than taking them out to competitive bid, City spokesperson Claire Thwaites said in an email to the Citizen.

Russell Audio-Visual provided the sound and video, KIMBO Design Inc. and Papyrus Printing provided the graphics and printing respectively, Thwaites confirmed. The event was advertised via Meta, The Citizen, Vista Radio and Pattison Media, according to the posting.

In directing staff on April 22 to organize the town hall, council had budgeted $20,000 for the task. Hall rental amounted to an internal transfer between departments,Thwaites noted, which arguably brought the total cost down to slightly less than the limit.

An estimated 200 people attended the evening-long event that was part of the process a council standing committee had been pursuing in answer to concerns surrounding the Moccasin Flats homeless encampment.

How well the town hall went dominated city council’s discussion during their June 24 regular meeting prior to passing a series of motions, including one to install new fencing around the encampment at the west end of Fifth Avenue.

Coun. Trudy Klassen said she had a “slight quibble” with staff’s emphasis on

the meeting in their report to council.

“I think we all know that we’ve been discussing these issues for quite some time and I think that maybe could be written a little bit differently,” Klassen said but added that “staff were very heroic in putting together the town hall in a very short period of time.”

Coun. Brian Skakun said council needs to take some responsibility for the short timeline staff had been given and suggested the atmosphere was not “real welcoming with the police presence and council sitting up on the stage.”

He questioned the focus on Moccasin Flats.

“If we had taken our time, we should’ve been able to pack that Civic Centre, the whole thing, because there would’ve been people from Spruceland, College Heights, the Hart Highway because crime and all the things that are going on are happening all over the place,” Skakun said.

Coun. Kyle Sampson, who was behind a notice of motion to hold the town hall, acknowledged the tight timeline but contended the town hall was “needed and it needed to be done fast.”

“I think this was an absolute win and I think doing it in the time frame that we set out as a council was the right thing to do. It gave our residents a chance to talk to us,” Sampson said and added he

“It’s not a problem solved overnight but it definitely a step in the right direction,” Sampson said.

Coun. Susan Scott suggested the seating on the floor could have been placed closer to the stage, “and someone, honestly, should have been positioned at the outside doors to invite people to walk around and have a seat - basic hosting - because people who stood and leaned against the wall gave up and left.”

Coun. Ron Polillo called the meeting a success and said he was “really impressed” with the comments and the way attendees conducted themselves.

would like to see council continue holding town halls, “maybe do a few tweaks as we learn.”

He said there is still work to do on the issue at hand.

“I know, for a fact, we need to communicate this way more often with our residents because it was successful and we gained a lot of great information and brought back this really thorough and detailed report,” Polillo said.

Echoing Polillo, Mayor Simon Yu said town halls could be held on other issues such as economic development.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

An estimated 200 people attended the Community Safety Town Hall held at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre on May 28.

Burn bans in effect as heat wave continues

CITIZEN STAFF

The heat wave that has gripped most of British Columbia for more than a week will continue in the days ahead, as will the risk of wildfires in the Prince George Fire Centre.

Environment Canada issued heat warnings Monday for the Prince George and Stuart-Nechako areas, as well as recent warnings for the Cariboo-North including Quesnel.

Daytime high temperatures in the 30’s combined with overnight lows in the mid-teens are expected through the end of the week.

Environment Canada is calling for sun with some cloudy periods Thursday through Sunday, with temperatures in the high 20s.

Sunday is expected to be the hottest day ahead, with a high of 29C. Overnight lows are expected to be in the mid-teens.

Expect slightly lower temperatures next week, with no rain in the forecast until Thursday, July 18.

However, for days, the B.C. Wildfire Service has advised that the above-average temperatures lower the risk of lightning, which can spark fires. More than

70 per cent of fires currently burning in the province were caused by lightning strikes.

It says there are about 90 fires currently burning in B.C., noting 73 per cent of them were caused by lightning.

Burn bans remain in effect in the Prince George Fire Centre, which ranges north and east from Prince George and includes north of the Interior Plateau and the Omenica Mountains to the north, sections of the Rocky Mountain Trench and Peace Liard country to the east and part of the Cariboo range to the south.

Burn bans are in effect, but people can still have campfires.

Category 2 and Category 3 open burning, as defined in the Wildfire Regulation Prohibitions apply to all public and private land, unless specified otherwise. Check with local government authorities for any other restrictions and assess conditions.Also banned are fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels and burn cages of any kind.

However, people enjoying the outdoors at their cabins or while camping are still permitted to light Category 1 campfires, defined as being no larger than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide and used for recreational or first nation ceremonial purposes.

Fires larger than that are considered

The Prince George Fire Centre is seen in yellow on this map of the province.

Category 2 and up, which fall under the ban.

The bans also do not apply to the outdoor use of cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.

Recent numbers from the wildfire service indicate about 20 fires are classified as “out of control,” including the Patry Creek fire about 60 kilometres north of Fort Nelson, which the service upgraded to “out of control” on Friday after warm, dry, windy weather set in.

With files from The Canadian Press

The heat wave that has gripped most of British Columbia for the past week is expected to continue into the weekend, and with it comes the risk of more wildfires.

City launching new survey to gauge if voters are willing to pay for Aquatic Centre repairs

To minimize disruptions to Aquatic Centre users, the project would be unveiled in five phases:

The 26-year-old Prince George Aquatic Centre needs $37 million in infrastructure repairs to keep it operational.

On July 5, The city formally began a public survey campaign to gauge if eligible voters are willing to foot the bill.

Having already secured $14.88 million in funding, the alternate approval process will determine if the city will go ahead with borrowing the remaining $22.15 million to pay for repairs and enhancements approved by city council at the April 22 meeting.

Elector response forms will be available until Aug. 19 through the city’s website or for pickup at the first-floor service centre at city hall or legislative services division on the fifth floor.

The alternate approval process will not proceed if 10 per cent or more of the city’s electorate (5,512 voters) decide in the survey they do not want the money spent on the Aquatic Centre upgrades.

“The need for these enhancements has not been due to lack of ongoing maintenance on the facility, it simply comes down to the age of the building and doing the work required to ensure the building will be in great shape long into the future,” said Andy Beesley, the city’s director of civic facilities.

“This means that it has now gone from the regular maintenance phase and into the ‘infrastructure replacement’ phase which is the normal life cycle for all buildings.”

Rather than spend $120,000 on the cost of a referendum the city chose to fund the AAP, which is absorbed by existing city budgets.

Phase 1(a) and 1(b): Further improvements in energy efficiency through Phase 1(a) ($1.3 million) and Phase 1(b) ($1.85 million).

Phase 2: Repairs to structural steel/ columns and dive tank sparger system. Replacement of main entry soffits, curtain wall, and air handling units cooling coils. Addition of energy recovery on air handling units. Budget estimate: $7.9 million.

Phase 3: Replacement of health/life safety items including deck, lobby, and visitor area tiles, handrails, plumbing fixtures, fire alarm system, and sprinkler heads. Budget estimate: $4.5 million.

Phase 4: Replacement of moveable bulkheads, change room tiles, overhead and underwater light fixtures, and emergency system lighting. Additional work includes interior repainting, hydronic piping reconfiguration, increased access controls, accessibility improvements, and a reconfigured reception desk. Budget estimate: $6.6 million.

Local governments are required to obtain approval of long-term capital borrowing from eligible electors either through the alternate approval process or in a referendum.

Rather than spend $120,000 on the cost of a referendum the city chose to fund the AAP, which is absorbed by existing city budgets.

The AAP was approved at the May 6 council meeting.

The proposed repairs are expected to add 25 years to the centre’s lifespan. Since it was built in 1998, the Aquatic Centre has been open to the public 11 months of the year, seven days per week. It annually hosts 250,000 visitors. The city usually closes the facility in September to conduct maintenance and repairs.

If the AAP gives the city the green light to go ahead, the design work on the first phase of upgrades will continue and construction will start in mid-2025.

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

The city is considering borrowing $22.15 million to update the 26-year-old Prince George Aquatic Centre.

It’s people’s stories that matter most

Citizen Staff

The province’s slow permit-granting process is hurting the northern forestry industry

GThe provincial Ministry of Forests is too slow to approve and issue permits that would allow companies to access one of the north’s most valuable resources.

ordon Dondale was visiting family in Prince George over the weekend when his sister opened the last week’s edition of the Citizen and spotted a familiar face in a grainy black-and-white photo.

“This looks like you,” she said, tossing him the paper.

After looking at the photo, he laughed in surprise. “It is me.”

It’s one of the reasons that B.C.’s lumber industry has faced difficult times. As costs rise, forestry companies should be able to access new areas to cut and generate more revenue. But that’s not happening, and it means stagnant exports and mill shutdowns.

This should not be happening when our forests are so full of potential.

By sheer coincidence, Dondale happened to be in town at the same time that a Citizen editor chose a photo of him for our weekly Throwback Thursday page. And his sister, Luella Lund, happened to notice it.

Last week, Chief Dolleen Logan of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and Chief George Lampreau of Simpcw First Nation gathered the media and called on the provincial NDP government to improve the forestry permits process and give first nations more of a say in how this valuable resource is managed.

Dondale was photographed while playing for a team called the Legion Grads in a ball game here in June 1962. It’s a black-and-white photo of the then-17-year-old at the bat, a gleam in his eye, confident and ready to swing, and it’s pretty clear who it is.

“Mills are shutting down and we need to find an economy, which is forestry, to keep the North going,” Logan told reporters.

Now living in Penticton, Dondale doesn’t play ball anymore. “Golf is my sport now,” he says, chatting with the Citizen at Carrie Jane Gray Park’s fastball field, with that same gleam in his eye as he mentions the game.

This was immediately followed by the same call from Carrier Lumber owner Bill Kordyban, who urged the province to step up and start approving more permits. And, he added, the Ministry of Forests should be listening to the experts who know our forests and understand proper conservation practices.

Throwback Thursday is our weekly look back at the people, places and events of decades past. When we heard Dondale’s story we headed out to meet him and his wife Edna at the field, bringing along a vintage wooden bat

The communities of Northern B.C. should have more of a say in how forestry permits are handled, say the leaders of two First Nations.

“My takeaway from that meeting is more deference has to be given from Victoria to those who want to manage the forest for the greater good,” Kordyban told The Citizen after listening to what Logan and Lampreau had to say, “rather than just simply consuming it and leaving it to chance what happens in the forest.”

Forest products make up roughly a quarter of B.C.’s annual exports. But the Ministry of Forests’ April numbers – the most recent – show little growth.

(from the garage of veteran sports reporter Ted Clarke) and photographer Chuck Nisbett set up the shot to mimic the original.

According to the province, pulp is up 12 per cent, with 1.053 million tonnes of exports over 1.211 in 2023, but logging

Dondale, who went on to work for the City of Prince George, doesn’t remember the original photo being

is down slightly at one per cent, 912 million tonnes this year over 923 million last year.

Why the stagnancy?

It’s the slow permitting process, as the chiefs pointed out. One solution they offered was to have northern First Nations take over the permitting process. That’s an idea worth considering, but the immediate need is for the existing ministry system step up and speed up.

The call is loud, and the point is clear. Will the province listen?

For more than a century, Victoria, Vancouver and the rest of the Lower

taken, or if he was aware of it running in the paper at the time. In fact, he doesn’t remember playing for the Grads, but said it wasn’t uncommon for him to step in to round out the rosters of other local teams back then. “The funniest thing is that I don’t remember that team name and I can’t make out what the uniform is,” as he puts it. What he does remember is the fairly regular presence of the Citizen at his sporting events. “We were in the paper for 10 years. Fast pitch was really bit in town, and we got really good articles.” He notes that the paper’s sports editor at the time also played fastball, so that probably helped.

He spent much of his amateur

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR editor@pgcitizen.ca

Mainland have enjoyed the benefits of having resource-rich cousins in the northern half of the province, but have shown reluctance to return the love. Our hard work up here deserves a larger serving of the revenues our industries generate. But as we have said – and will say so again, guaranteed – that’s not how it’s worked.

Here’s an opportunity to change that.

ball career playing for teams sponsored by Geddes Contracting and Hart Construction. In 1966, he travelled to Rock Island, Illinois, with the local Columbus Hotel Softball Club, which represented Canada at the World Softball Tournament. A Citizen advertisement from that time indicates that Dondale was sponsored by the City of Prince George. He remembers that the team had several players from Prince George as well as a few imports. Canada came ninth in that tournament, which was won by the U.S. Dondale later played on teams that won back-to-back provincial championships.

As Logan noted, there’s plenty of potential in Lheidli T’enneh timberlands. But, as she added, one company has applied for permits and is still waiting after three months. There’s wood to be cut, money to made and workers to be paid, but that’s all in limbo because of a slow-moving ministerial bureaucracy.

Over the last few days, the province has heard from two first nations’ leaders and the head of a large lumber company. You might think that would lead to action (or, at least, a response), but we know better. Others have pushed for change, including lumber industry unions, but this will take even more voices joining the call.

More specifically, we urge more First Nations, cities, towns and villages of Northern B.C. to add their support, publicly and vocally, to make sure the ministry knows we want to get to work in our forests, for the benefit of everyone in the province.

So that’s one man’s decades-old connection to his hometown paper. You’re reading about it because of a couple of coincidences strung together by that sense of community, as word got to us that he was in town, and he was up for a chat. This is a perfect example of how much of a connection a local newspaper can have with its community. By telling people’s stories, we record those moments for history. It’s also a reminder of how important amateur sports can be to our city. Anyone can look up vintage game results and player stats online, but it was the Citizen sharing the pictures and stories of people like Dondale and others that mattered then and now.

Locally Owned Community Focused

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Gordie Dondale, took bat in hand at the plate while visiting Carrie Jane Gray Park Sunday, 62 years after having his picture taken during a game he played in for the Legion Grads versus Prince George Tire.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

OPINION

Knox Performance Centre has become a new cultural gem in Prince George

SHELBY RICHARDSON Guest Columnist

The Knox Performance Centre has quickly become a cultural hotspot in Prince George since its grand opening in March 2023. The centre’s inaugural event featured world-renowned pianist Angela Hewitt, drawing a sold-out crowd and setting the stage for a series of successful performances.

The Knox Performance Centre is a key part of the “Trinity United Downtown” campus, the oldest continuous church in Prince George. The original church building on Brunswick Street is a heritage site.

The performance centre is located in the sanctuary built in 1955. After merging with the former St. Andrew’s congregation in 2018, Trinity United sought to reflect its core values of inclusive fellowship, living faith, joyful service, anti-racism, and affirmation of all. This led to the renovation and transformation of part of the church into a full-time performance and live events venue.

The Knox Performance Centre hosted its first theatrical production with Miracle Theatre’s “Dancing Lessons,” attracting theatre lovers from across the region. This successful run paved the way for more diverse performances at the venue.

In collaboration with the Community Arts Council of Prince George and Trinity United Church, Knox launched its first-ever performing arts series. This series brought celebrated artists from across Canada to our city, including acts like the hilarious “Middle-Raged” by Gary Pearson and Geri Hall, and the compelling “Pier 21” by the Canadiana Musical Theatre Company.

Audiences also enjoyed a variety of genres, from the experimental classical sounds of Land’s End Ensemble to the vibrant rhythms of Kutapira and Joely Triana Flamenco. The series also showcased our homegrown talent, with

The performance centre is located in the Knox sanctuary built in 1955.

a standout performance by Toronto Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster violinist Jonathan Crow.

The centre also hosted the ColdSnap 2024 Music Festival, which went on to win the Festival of the Year award from the BC Touring Council at the annual Pacific Contact conference.

The festival featured a lineup of exceptional performers, solidifying Knox’s reputation as a premier venue for live music.

Local performing arts groups have also found a home at Knox. The Prince George Symphony Orchestra’s Chamber Series, Nove Voce, and the Prince George Cantata Singers have all performed here, delighting audiences with their musical talents.

Beyond music and theater, Knox hosted unique community events such as the Great Northern Chili Cookoff and the Northern Hospitality Music Festival. These events featured local artists like Danny Bell and Kym Gouchie, drawing lively crowds and celebrating all Northern B.C. has to offer.

Knox’s commitment to supporting emerging artists is evident through

The Knox Performance Center is part of the “Trinity United Downtown” campus.

its partnerships with Dance West and Method Dance Society, bringing new artist residencies to Prince George, providing creative space for up-and-coming artists from across B.C.

The Knox Performance Centre is a testament to the vibrant cultural life of Prince George. With its diverse array of performances and events, it continues to draw audiences and artists, enriching our city’s cultural scene. As Knox moves forward, it remains dedicated

to providing a space where creativity thrives and where the community can come together to celebrate the arts. So whether you’re a fan of music, theater, or community events, the Knox Performance Centre offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting cultural journey in the heart of Prince George!

Shelby Richardson is the performing arts program manager for the Commun ity Arts Council.

OPINION

City of Prince George spent $21,172 on community safety town hall

Why did we need the former Mayor of Golden to facilitate the meeting? I am sure there was some home grown people that could of done the Jab for a lot less money , maybe some council members, have the talent, if not what about our former mayor? The next meeting should have a time limit on the speakers. Advertise in the Citizen, and on Facebook. and use a school, like Ron Brent , how hard is that? We have a major problem, our downtown has been destroyed, by turning a blind eye to the problems, and now to try to fix the problem, we are putting residential areas in harm’s way and throwing them under the bus. There has to be a better way. We need to protect our children and keep them safe.

FHR

Hospice Palliative Care Society Launches Rec Room programs

Anyone who has had to use their services ... Knows first hand how extremely important this society is to our community!!! Sooooo happy to see them expanding, just sooooo thankful for all THEY offer … and do in PG.

Priscilla PG

PG asking voters for Aquatic Centre upgrades approval

The Aquatic Center is just the latest city owned building that where the most basic building maintenance is ignored year after year until it becomes a crisis. They say it shuts for a month for maintenance but that is pool specific and does nothing to address defects in the building itself. The city has $33 million cash on hand from the Fortis lease deal. Use $22M of that to bring the Aquatic Center up to snuff and use the remainder to start properly maintaining other city owned buildings. Lastly the city must beef up the annual maintenance budget above the $500k set aside for “emergency repairs.” The city spends 100s of thousands/ year on consultants to do building assessments and then do ZERO followup on the recommendations WE paid for. Every homeowner knows that if they wait until their shingles are all curled up & the roof is now leaking it will be much more expensive to set things right than if they had done repairs in a timely manner.

Bobs your uncle

PG asking voters for Aquatic Centre upgrades approval

I just returned from a baseball tournament held at McArthur Island Park. You can Google it. The place is a fabulous example of what a multiuse outdoor sports facility can be. It is obvious that something like this only exists as a result of years of competent planning and political will. This is something that has been woefully lacking at P.G. city hall for decades. This facility is beautifully maintained by city staff not turned over to well meaning weekend volunteers. The tournament held there involved many divisions and drew thousands of people all staying in Kamloops hotels. Eating in Kamloops restaurants. Buying Kamloops gas and shopping in Kamloops malls. When you see what other communities have developed over the years it makes one realize how second-rate many of our facilities really are.

Randy Flavel

Knox Performance Centre: A cultural gem in Prince George

This venue truly deserves the spotlight and recognition. With its incredible sound quality and fantastic atmosphere, it’s a real gem. A much needed and welcome addition to PG’s cultural assets, and exactly the kind of feature that makes P.G. stand out as an amazing city to live in.

S Goods

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UNBC Timberwolves men’s team sets 2024-25 Canada West Schedule

Looking forward to another exciting season. If you’ve never watched a game you’re missing out. It’s high action, heart pumping play. All the best T’Wolves!

R. Nich

Prince George firefighters were called to Moccasin Flats on Thursday, July 4 to deal with a report of a structure fire. Once there, they found other structures in danger before another shelter also caught fire. The flames were put out. Nobody was hurt, and damage was estimated at $2,000. These were the latest of several fires in the encampment this spring and summer.

River tubers stranded overnight

A group of adults and children who were tubing down the Willow River Saturday, July 6 ended up spending a cold night on a small island.

RCMP and Prince George Search and Rescue found the group, which had been reported overdue, early Sunday morning.

They were located on an island on a remote stretch of the river east of Prince George.

“The distances were greater than they anticipated and their tubes became damaged during the trip,” the rescue service reported Sunday. “Night fell and they were swept into a log jam.”

The group made it to the island and decided to stay put and wait for sunrise.

An RCMP drone was used to spot them and the group was rescued by police and PGSAR after what was described as “a cold and buggy night” dressed only in swimsuits.

No injuries were reported.

PGSAR reminds people to plan their trips well and use personal flotation devices before setting out.

NEWS NOTES

Prince George Search and Rescue is a registered non-profit volunteer organization which responds 24/7, all year round, in all types of weather conditions. Members are unpaid professionals highly trained in wilderness skills and technical rescue.

Spilled load closes highway

A blown tire led to the crash of a vehicle hauling old propane bottles on the morning of Sunday, July 7.

Prince George RCMP and other first responders were called to a vehicle crash on Highway 97 north of Hixon, near Swanson Road, at about 11:30 a.m.

The truck spilled its load of old and recycled cylinders over three lanes of traffic.

“The incident shut down the highway in both directions for a large portion of the afternoon, as emergency crews cleared the truck from the highway and collected the propane bottles,” reports Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, media relations

Main break closes street

CITIZEN STAFF

A section of Ahbau Street was closed to traffic on Thursday, July 4 after a water main break. Crews were on scene to repair the damage. The closure affects the section of Ahbau between Rainbow Drive and 10th Avenue.

officer with the Prince George RCMP. “Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident and only the single vehicle was involved.”

The highway reopened several hours later.

City plans to close some roads

The City of Prince George has updated local street closures for the days ahead.

Dakehl-Ti between Domano Boulevard and Southridge Avenue will be single lane alternating, Friday, July 12 from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Lafarge to do milling. Emergency vehicles will have access.

Massey Drive between Westwood Drive and Ospika Boulevard Will be closed, Friday, July 12 from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Lafarge to pave. Detours will be in place. Emergency vehicles will not have access.

Ospika Boulevard between Massey Drive and Nicole Avenue will be closed, Monday, July 15 from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Lafarge to pave. Detours will be in place. Access granted to roads with

only one way in. Emergency vehicles will not have access.

University Way between Foothills Boulevard and Ceremonial Road will be closed, Monday, July 15 from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Lafarge to do milling. De-tours will be in place. Emergency vehicles will not have access.

Seventh Avenue between Alward Street and McBride Crescent will be closed, all day, until Monday, July 15 for a watermain project. Detours required. Emergency vehicles will not have access.

Vance Road between Highway 16 and Westwood Drive will be single lane alternating, Tuesday, July 16 from 6:30 to 4 p.m. for Lafarge to do milling.

University Way between Foothills Boulevard and Ceremonial Road will be closed Tuesday, July 16 from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. for Lafarge to pave. Detours will be in place. Emergency vehicles will not have access.

The Austin Road and Heather Road intersection will be single-lane alternating, Tuesday, July 16 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for routine maintenance.

Fraser Lake, Stellat’en sign fire services deal

CITIZEN STAFF

The Village of Fraser Lake and Stellat’en First Nation have announced the signing of a Municipal Type Service Agreement (MTSA) that will see the First Nation’s fire crews training with the village’s firefighters.

The Fraser Lake Volunteer Fire Department began inviting the Stellat’en Volunteer Fire Department to join its weekly training sessions on Monday, July 8.

A signing ceremony was held Thursday, July 5 in the Fraser Lake council chambers.

“During an unpredictable fire season, the Village of Fraser Lake is enthused to collaborate with Stellat’en First Nation for the protection of our communities,” said Village of Fraser Lake Mayor Sarrah Storey.

The initiative aims to ensure the Stellat’en Volunteer Fire Department meets industry standards for exterior structural firefighting.

Stellat’en traditional territory is located about 160 km west of Price George between Fraser Lake and Vanderhoof.

“The Stellat’en First Nation is pleased to enter this agreement with the Village of Fraser Lake as it will provide a level of fire protection for our community and region that is much needed and that has not been historically present,” said Stellat’ en First Nation Chief Robert Michell at the ceremony.

The MTSA is set for an initial term of one year, with the possibility of a oneyear extension agreement which will be closely monitored, with the intention of negotiating a new agreement in the upcoming year.

Carrier Lumber president backs First Nations’ call for bigger role in forestry management

Carrier Lumber president Bill Kordyban is among a growing chorus of dissent getting louder in protest over how B.C. forests are being managed by the provincial government.

He’s convinced there’s a better way to support an ailing forest industry left reeling from the impacts of mill closures and job losses.

To do that, Kordyban says the province’s forestry ministry has no choice but to give up a large chunk of its fiefdom.

Right now, according to industry stakeholders, it’s a broken system, with loggers waiting months for permission to go in with their heavy equipment to cut down trees, and Kordyban is not alone when he says there needs to be a change in policy that recognizes how dire the situation has become.

Kordyban attended a meeting last week in Prince George that gathered forest industry leaders, three local mayors and two B.C. First nation chiefs - Dolleen Logan of Lheidli T’enneh and George Lampreau of Simcw – for a discussion that centred around the long delays it takes for foresters to be granted permit approvals from the province that allow commercial harvesting.

“My takeaway from that meeting is more deference has to be given from Victoria to those who want to manage the forest for the greater good, rather than just simply consuming it and leaving it to chance what happens in the forest,” said Kordyban.

“By chance, you can end up with a beautiful ecosystem, untouched, but you’re just as likely, maybe more likely, you’ll end up with a wildfire-killed landscape, or all the trees will die from beetles if you let them sit untouched.”

Kordyban, 63, whose father, Bill Sr., started Carrier lumber in 1951, understands why area First Nations feel neglected by government bureaucrats and agrees with their stance that the provincial government needs to

give regional interests more of say in what gets done to keep the industry sustainable.

“First Nations have been effectively managing forest industry for many years, of course in a different fashion than we do now, but they lived in the forest, it provided their sustenance, so they were in effect managing it,” said Kordyban. “They want to continue managing the forest, not just sitting idly by. They want to manage it to increase wildlife, they want to lessen the chance of fires and lessen the chance of beetle outbreaks and increase its benefits for the greater good.

“How you do that is you bring the decision-making power back to the local area, you bring it to the first nation, to the community and to the stakeholders in this part of the world. That one-sizefits-all mantra that flows from the south, it doesn’t work up here in the north, and we have example after example of that.

“It’s not a static picture, it changes all the time and we as humans can influence what we want to see out of it,” he said.

“But leave those decisions up north with us and leave it to the First Nations to work with us, and us with them and the communities, and you’ll get far better decisions.”

One of the examples he cites is old growth management. In February the province announced it will defer old

growth logging on 2.42 million hectares, in addition to 3.7 million hectares of already protected forest.

The Fairy Creek protests in 2020-21 highlighted the need to protect the watershed in that area of southern Vancouver Island and the government agreed to defer logging in the Fairy Creek and Central Walbran areas, later extending that agreement through Feb. 1, 2025. But what works for them doesn’t necessarily work in a colder climate.

Old trees that grow throughout the year in temperate coastal areas like Fairy Creek are much different from oldgrowth areas in northern B.C., where growth stops during the cold-weather months. There are exceptions, like the giant trees of The Ancient Forest in the Driscoll Range east of Prince George, but vast majority of old growth trees in northern boreal forests are not like that. They do not get as old or last as long as coastal trees.

“In the north, where we live, if you have a 250-year-old tree, that tree is very likely either going to burn in a wildfire, or more likely the beetles will get at it and kill it, so it has a very limited shelf life up here,” said Kordyban.

“When people think of old growth they think about 500-year-old Douglas fir trees on the coast, six or eight feet in diameter, and the Fairy Creek protests effectively was a more southern issue

and then it got rolled into the Interior,” he said.

“The First Nations were very upset with Victoria because it was imposed on them, take it or leave it. So we’ve been saddled with old growth recommendations that really should have been developed up here.”

The latest round of mill closures this year that shuttered mills in Fraser Lake, and Bear Lake and took out one of the two pulp lines at Prince George Pulp and Paper which cut hundreds of jobs from the region, continuing a trend that’s gone on for years. While Canfor expands into the southern U.S., it continues to pull back from its B.C. operations, forcing skilled labourers and tradespeople to leave for other regions or provinces to find work.

Fifteen or 20 years ago, B.C. was one of the lowest producers of forest products in North America. Now, the cost of doing business is among the highest anywhere, and Kordyban blames that squarely on the province.

“A huge amount is due to provincial policy,” he said. “The fact permits aren’t being issued is going to create more artificial shortages for the mills and there may be more shutting down just because there’s no wood flowing to the mills.”

Despite the pine beetle infestation of the early 2000s that wiped an area of B.C. forest as big as New Brunswick and several years of major wildfire destruction, Kordyban says there are still plenty of trees in close proximity to the mills. But not enough of those loads are being sourced locally. Logging trucks continue to roll into the Carrier’s Tabor Mill in Prince George in the BCR Industrial site coming in from as far away as Terrace.

He’s raised the issue many times with ministerial staff and nobody seems willing to budge.

“Some of it seems to fall on deaf ears,” he said. “It’s gotten worse, definitely in the last decade or two. It’s just been a slow devolvement of decision-making to the south.”

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

HANDOUT PHOTO

Carrier Lumber president Bill Kordyban advocates for return of local forestry policy decision making.

NOTICE OF ALTERNATIVE APPROVAL PROCESS

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to section 86 of the Community Charter, Prince George City Council is proposing to seek approval of the electors of the City of Prince George by Alternative Approval Process. The question before the electors is whether they are opposed to Prince George City Council adopting the proposed “Prince George Aquatic Centre Mechanical and Building Update Phases 1a, 1b, 2, 3, and 4 Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 9468, 2024” at the regular Council meeting scheduled for Monday, August 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC, without first obtaining assent of the electors by a referendum vote.

• “Prince George Aquatic Centre Mechanical and Building Update Phases 1a, 1b, 2, 3, and 4 Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 9468, 2024”

The additional capital work projects to the Prince George Aquatic Centre Mechanical and Building Update project were approved with the funding source designated as Municipal Finance Authority (MFA) debt funding. The estimated cost of the projects associated with this Bylaw is the sum of twenty-two million one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($22,150,000).

The loan agreement with the Municipal Finance Authority (MFA) will be for a term no longer than twenty (20) years. The annual debt servicing costs for borrowing the full amounts is estimated to be one million eight hundred fifty-three thousand nine hundred and thirty-nine dollars ($1,853,939) and would result in 1.34% of future tax levy increases.

Prince George Aquatic Centre Mechanical and Building Envelope Upgrade Phases 1a, 1b, 2, 3 and 4 is a component renewal and upgrade project that will incorporate the additional phases to Project #3108 Prince George Aquatic Centre Mechanical & Building Envelope Upgrades to extend its useful service life and includes improving energy efficiency, lowering operating costs, bringing asset up to current code The project will include the following works to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and increase the building life expectancy with increased insulation, triple glazed windows and durable metal cladding systems. Repairs to the structural steel/columns and dive tank sparger system. Replacement of main entry soffits, curtain wall and air handling units cooling coils. Addition of energy recovery on air handling units. Replacement of health/life safety items including deck, lobby and visitor area tile, handrails, plumbing fixtures, fire alarm system and sprinkler heads. Replacement of moveable bulkheads, change room tiles, overhead and underwater light fixtures and emergency system lighting, in addition to interior repainting, hydronic piping reconfiguration, increased access controls, accessibility improvements, and reconfigured reception desk.

The project is to address immediate and upcoming facility asset reinvestment; to condense the number of interruptions to facility users and events; meet current code requirements, improve energy efficiencies; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; extend the expected useful service life further; and consider life cycle operational cost savings.

A copy of proposed Bylaw No. 9468, 2024, a more detailed summary of the proposed project, and a copy of the proposed loan agreements with the Municipal Finance Authority are available for public inspection at City Hall during regular business days between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

For any questions, please contact the Legislative Services Department at (250) 561-7793 or cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

INSTRUCTIONS

If you are not opposed to the adoption of the above noted Bylaw, you need do nothing.

If you are opposed to the adoption of the above noted Bylaw without the Bylaw first receiving assent of the electors by a referendum vote, you may sign and submit an Elector Response Form indicating your opposition.

A person may not sign more than one Elector Response Form.

APPLICABLE AREA

The area to which the Alternative Approval Process applies is the entire area of the City of Prince George. The municipal Council may proceed with the adoption of Bylaw No. 9468, 2024 unless before the deadline of 5:00 p.m., Friday, August 9, 2024, at least 10% of electors submit a complete and signed Elector Response Form indicating that Council must obtain assent of the electors by a referendum vote before proceeding with the adoption of Bylaw No. 9468, 2024. For the purpose of this Alternative Approval Process, Council has determined that there are 55,126 registered electors in the City of Prince George. The municipal Council may therefore proceed with the adoption of Bylaw No. 9468, 2024 unless at least 5,512 electors submit a completed copy of an Elector Response Form to the City of Prince George before the deadline of 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024

RESIDENTS AND NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS:

In order to sign an Elector Response Form, a person must either be a resident elector or a non-resident property elector of the City of Prince George. For the purposes of the Alternative Approval Process, an elector is a person who meets the qualifications referred to in section 65 or section 66 of the Local Government Act if assent of the electors were sought, either as a resident elector or non-resident property elector.

To sign an Elector Response Form as a resident elector a person must:

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be at least 18 years of age;

• have lived in British Columbia for at least the last six (6) months before signing the Elector Response Form;

• live within the City of Prince George; and

• not be otherwise disqualified from voting by the Local Government Act or by other law.

To sign an Elector Response Form as a non-resident property elector a person must:

• be a Canadian citizen;

• be at least 18 years of age;

• have lived in British Columbia for at least the last six (6) months before signing the Elector Response Form;

• have been a registered owner of property within the City of Prince George for at least the last thirty (30) days; and

• not be otherwise disqualified from voting by the Local Government Act or by other law.

ELECTOR RESPONSE FORM

An Elector Response Form must be in the form approved by the Council of the City of Prince George, or an accurate copy of the form such as a photocopy. Elector Response Forms are available on the 1st Floor or the 5th Floor of Prince George City Hall, 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., on Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. Elector Response Forms are also available on the City’s website: www.princegeorge.ca/aap.

The deadline for submitting an Elector Response Form is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024.

An Elector Response Form must be fully completed and hand-signed. All three (3) pages of the completed Elector Response Form must be submitted in order to be counted.

Nine months for man with gun

A man found walking away from the scene of a single-vehicle rollover with a gun in his possession was sentenced Friday to two years and a day in jail.

Dezmon Levi Owens, born 1995, received two consecutive nine-month sentences in provincial court on counts of carrying a prohibited weapon and possessing a firearm contrary to an order.

The outcome stems from an arrest on the evening of March 10 when police were called to the corner of Highway 16 West and Davis Road.

Witnesses told police a man had left the vehicle and walked away with what appeared to be a firearm in his possession. Owens was apprehended a short distance away.

Owens was also prohibited from driving for a year, issued a lifetime firearms prohibition and ordered to provide a DNA sample. Owens was under a threeyear driving prohibition and a 10-year firearms prohibition at the time of the arrest.

CRIME NOTES

Owens was also sentenced to three months in jail for uttering threats, stemming from a September 2023 incident in Prince George, and three months for two counts of theft $5,000 and under, from a pair of August 2023 incidents in Quesnel.

He had remained in custody since his most recent arrest, adding up to 117 days. It will be the longest term Owens is to serve behind bars, court records indicate.

RCMP probes fatal overdose

A teen girl who overdosed in June, prompting an RCMP warning, has died, police report.

The girl, 16, was found unconscious by police in a McMaster Crescent home last Wednesday.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the young victim, in their time of tragedy and loss,” stated Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, media relations officer for the Prince George RCMP.

NOTICE OF ALTERNATIVE APPROVAL PROCESS

Elector Response Forms may be submitted by hand delivery, mail, facsimile (fax), or email as a PDF document attachment, as follows:

Address for delivery or mail: Attention: Corporate Officer City of Prince George Legislative Services Division 5th Floor - 1100 Patricia Blvd. Prince George, BC V2L 3V9

Facsimile (fax) number: (250) 561-0183 PDF submission via email: cityclerk@princegeorge.ca

If submitting the Elector Response Form to the City of Prince George by facsimile (fax) or by email as a PDF document attachment, please ensure that the transmission was completed.

This notice is published in accordance to section 86 and 94 of the Community Charter and City of Prince George Public Notice Bylaw No. 9329, 2022.

DATED this 5th day of July, 2024

Ethan Anderson, Corporate Officer/ Manager of Legislative Services City of Prince George

The investigation is ongoing and is a top priority for the Serious Crime Unit, Cooper stated.

Police looking for theft suspect

The Prince George RCMP is looking for 25-year-old Starrla Joy Alexis. Alexis is wanted on two endorsed warrants for two counts of theft under $5,000.

She is Indigenous, 5’6 (168 cm), 155 lb (70 kg), with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is asked to call Prince George RCMP at 250-5613300. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Suspects taken off ‘wanted’ list

The Prince George RCMP is no longer looking for some of the suspects it has featured in its Wanted Wednesday online posts:

• Lyle Robert Suter (Wanted Wednesday from April 24, 2024)

• Matthew Christopher Bonner (Wanted Wednesday from May 22, 2024)

• Brittney Kathleen Reimer

(Wanted Wednesday from June 5, 2024)

• Jesse John Braaten (Wanted Wednesday from June 12, 2024)

Deadly crash footage sought

Prince George RCMP is looking for anyone with video camera footage that may have captured the fatal motor vehicle incident that occurred on June 29.

Police are looking for anyone with dash camera or cell phone video footage that may have caught the incident itself or the driving behaviour of the vehicles involved, the police note in a statement.

At 3 p.m. on June 29, Prince George RCMP was called to the scene of a motor vehicle incident that involved a small SUV and a motorcycle on the 2100 block of Massey Drive. The motorcycle driver was taken to hospital by emergency health services, but did not survive his injuries.

Massey Drive was closed for several hours in both directions as investigators and the collision analyst worked to gather information.

Court docket: July 2-5

These are recent sentences for offences committed in Prince George and area.

Aaron Robert Jonathan Young (born 1978) was sentenced to time served and assessed $300 in victim surcharges for three counts of breaching a release order. Time served was not available.

Candice Marie John (born 1997) was sentenced to one year probation with a suspended sentence for theft $5,000 or under.

Christine Barbara Clapton (born 1979) was sentenced to one year probation with a suspended sentence for theft $5,000 or under.

Tanya Fredilia Lolly (born 1995) was sentenced to time served and one year probation for theft $5,000 or under. Time served was not available.

Alexis Robin Fleury (born 1998) was sentenced to time served and one year probation for theft $5,000 or under. Time served was not available.

MARK NIELSEN Special to The Citizen

Sentences are passed down at the courthouse on George Street.

DART program offers new hope for people moving on after drugs and alcohol

For some people, giving up alcohol after it’s ruined their lives can be the hardest thing they’ll ever have to do. When they’re successful, though, their story can inspire others. Today, The Citizen profiles two local men who turned their lives around.

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Mike Widnes has been trying to get sober ever since he attended his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting when he was 18.

He got launched off that wagon so many times he lost count and each time the landing opened up a world of hurt.

The constant flushing of booze poured into his system wasted 60 pounds off what used to be a chiseled pipefitter workingman’s body, leaving a gaunt mirror reflection he struggled to recognize.

He tried quitting a few years ago and was seven months into the Salvation Army Miracle Valley Treatment Centre program in Maple Ridge when he relapsed after finding out his father in Comox had drowned.

His rock-bottom moment happened about a year ago when he was found near death in his motel room suffering from acute alcohol poisoning.

“I lost everything,” Widnes said. “I had a good woman who tried to help me for eight years. How do you help somebody who’s powerless? Love is not enough.

“I went to jail for a while. I haven’t done major crimes or anything,

everything I’ve done in front of a judge has been alcohol-related.”

Now, at 54, he’s quit drinking, has a full-time job working in Prince George on a yard maintenance crew and for the first time in years he’s talking to his family again.

He has three “at least three” grown children – a son and two daughters, all in Vancouver Island – and says they all are keen on connecting with him now that he’s off the booze.

In January, Widnes served out a jail sentence for breach of probation terms and was released from Prince George Correctional Centre. From jail, his landing pad was the Integrity Recovery Centre, a Prince George halfway house whose clients are often hired as labourers by the Drug Awareness Recovery Team (DART).

After a winter shoveling snow and hauling clients’ junk to the dump, Widnes now spends his working days behind a weed eater or lawnmower on a DART crew.

He’s back in the workforce earning a regular paycheque and not spending a dime of that on alcohol.

He pays $1,000 a month for his room and board and is saving what he can in case he decides to pay a visit to his

family on Vancouver Island.

“I’m in pretty good shape for the amount I drank, my higher power has been pretty kind to me,” said Widnes. “Alcohol wastes people away and turns them into emptiness. It takes everything you’ve got and gives you hopelessness back.

“The last time it nearly killed me, that’s why I’m here today. Working with DART gives a guy sense of purpose again. It shows you that you can do it. You’ll always be an addict/alcoholic, but you don’t have to suffer from it anymore.”

Former heroin addict Bob Scott started the Drug Awareness Recovery Team Society in Prince George in 1996 when he saw the need to give recovering addicts the ways and means to become human again, by putting them to work in gardening, snow removal and odd jobs.

Scott spent the better part of four decades trying to kick from his habit and was able return to a healthy lifestyle and create work opportunities for other reformed drug users through his gardening business, until he died of emphysema at age 68 on July 18, 2008.

DART has continued to grow and now has two crews that do yardwork for

commercial and residential property owners. They also help maintain city parks and facilities and do odd jobs for people on a list of about 100 regular clients.

“A lot of the clients are seniors and they appreciate the work that’s being done, and when the crews see that it makes them feel good and it shows that no matter what type of work it is, they should do a good job, whether it’s something sophisticated or maybe more mental or something physical and labour intensive,” said DART executive director Len McNamara.

“They get the added bonus that they’re amongst crew members that have been through the same types of programs and face the same challenges and they see how other people grapple with their situations. All in all it’s a pretty good program that Bob started 28 years ago. Not only did he provide the work, but Bob provided counseling for those people.”

Northern Health provides funding to DART through an annual grant established years ago by Scott and DART president Gary Godwin, a retired RCMP officer.

Sobriety, supports and paid work are helping recovering addicts get their lives back on track

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

McNamara says the not-for-profit society has outgrown its Third Avenue headquarters and would like to find a larger space big enough to combine its office and equipment storage space which would alsoi allow DART to conduct on-site counseling services.

“We’d like to have something we can run 24 hours a day, so it’s the business in the daytime and at night it’s group meetings or workshops or those types of things,” said McNamara.

“They say, on average, you go through eight to 10 recovery places before you actually have success. It’s a struggle. It took Bob 38 years from the time he felt he was in addiction. I don’t think he ever said he beat it. He still craved heroin and all those types of things, but it was 38 years to get himself clean.”

Before DART hired him in January 2023, it had been five years since Dave Barber had held a job. Getting high as a kite was the most important thing in his life and he says there was no way he could go to work every day. He couldn’t stay sober long enough to get through a shift.

“Who’s hiring somebody like me, with my eyes like a dinner plate,” he said.

“You’re disheveled, you’re a sick person. People think it’s a decision, and at a certain point we lose that decision and you just slide down this scale and by the time you wake up you don’t see a way out. You cross a certain point where you can’t stop anymore, despite the desire and the necessity.”

The lack of affordable housing is contributing to a problem that now affects an estimated 450 homeless people in Prince George.

Integrity was already housing some of Barber’s friends from jail at the time he was released and they provided the peer support network he now relies upon.

But during that first two weeks his cravings dominated his thoughts and he

DART worker Dave Barber uses a gas trimmer while working along the river bank at Lheidl

ber said he wants to show others that there’s a way out from a life of addiction.

was ready to leave.

“If it wasn’t for them talking me out of it I don’t know where I’d be right now,” he said.

Barber, 41, has two children, an 18-year-old son on Vancouver Island and a nine-year-old daughter in Fort St. John and he admits he hasn’t contributed financially to their upbringing, but with his addiction in check and a plan to go back to school at the College of New Caledonia to become a registered addictions counselor, they are both involved in his life again. He hopes they learn from his mistakes.

“I just want to be able to show there’s a way out and help with that, you kind of find the purpose once you get rid of the problem,” he said.

“Through helping others in Integrity and otherwise, it just seems like the right thing to do.”

Lawn care makes up 80 per cent of DART’s business and currently the workers are about 95 per cent male. Numbers fluctuate between 15 and 20 and last year 75 people worked on a

DART crew.

Some have been with the organization for several years and come back for seasonal work.

As long as they remain substance-free, Integrity clients have the opportunity to work with DART, which gives them their identity as contributing members of society.

They earn lifeskills, build up a work resume and gain references they would not likely get elsewhere.

“I’m just grateful to be where I am and grateful to give back to the community that I took from for a long time,” said Barber.

“For me to get out (of jail) and go back to work full-time flat out, I wouldn’t have had the time to fix the problem. Work’s not our problem, drugs are. The work side of it is teaching us how to live again. We were outcasts for so long and a lot of guys have never worked. They don’t know how to live; some of them haven’t had a house in 20 years.

“We’re not housebroken half the time, but we get structure and accountability

at Integrity and the opportunity to start our life again. This (job) gives us that opportunity and with that we get some dignity back.”

Now that his mind is speaking sober thoughts again, Widnes has regained his purpose in life. He’s talking about getting back into pipefitting and for the first time in eight years he’s having regular conversations with his mother in Comox.

He’s also made contact with his three adult offspring, but knows fixing those relationships won’t happen overnight.

“My alcohol cost me the kids, I lost everything” he said.

“Now, due to this (job with DART) I’m starting to get a little bit back. They’re grown up and I wasn’t there when they needed me the most. I couldn’t be a father and I’ve got to earn their respect back.

“This is a path. Could I ask them to forgive me? No, that’s has to be their choice. But I can certainly make an effort to try to be that man I could have been.”

CHUCK NISBETT PHOTO

T’enneh Memorial Park. Bar-

What’s happening in PG

Mip Power Trio live at Omineca Arts Centre with the Crones goes Thursday, July 11 at 9 p.m. With catchy hooks and an unbridled energy, the Mip Power Trio has developed a raw and wild eclectic underground rock n roll sound that champions life’s whimsy and absurdity. Tickets $20 available at Madloon. ca/tickets.

Community Art Days goes Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Canada Games Plaza. This is a free, all-ages event presented by the Two Rivers Gallery and BMO. Everyone is invited to attend this event filled with free art activities, artist workshops, live music and performances, community booths and food trucks.

Youth for Christ Garage Sale & BBQ goes Saturday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fort George Baptist Church, 1600 Johnson St. This is a fundraiser for the Youth Centre. The sale takes place in the upper room at the Youth centre and most items will be for sale by donation. Garage sale item donations are welcome. Please contact steve@ princegeorgeyfc.ca

Sweet Summer Market goes Saturday, July 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at CN Centre with local vendors and artisans to shop along with some of the city’s food trucks.

Legends Live is presented by OM Pizza Bar Café on Saturday, July 13 from 7 to 10 p.m. at 1970 Ospika Blvd. Experience the thrill of seeing

505 Second Ave. This summer celebration features live music from Coastal Drifters, Brainium and Infectious, delicious food, and fun activities for the whole family. Tickets are $38.61 at www.eventbrite.com/e/santana-summer-street-fest-tickets-931946967467 Community Market Junk in the Trunk goes Sunday, July 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pineview Recreation Commission, 6470 Bendixon Road, featuring new merchandise, services, produce, and garage sale items.

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P&R Organic Farms is celebrating 25 years with an appreciation day on Sunday, July 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 12800 Salmon Valley Road. Enjoy a family and friends filled day celebrating 25 years in the community. The farm will have vegetables for sale (cash only) while there will be a food truck and face painting by donation, hayrides, a petting zone, games and a bounce house and tours.

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award-winning impersonators in fabulous costumes pay tribute to a couple of favourite icons, starring Kat Fullerton as Almost Marilyn and Cory Hicks as Elton Enough. From timeless classics to chart-topping hits, these music legends will take you on a journey through the decades. Call to make a reservation at 250-562-9888 after getting your tickets at www.eventbrite.ca/e/legendslive-presents-hello-norma-jeane-tickets-917035045507

27th Annual Prince George Pride Parade goes Saturday, July 13 at 10 a.m. at the Canada Games Plaza and is

presented by the Prince George Pride Society. Celebrate the strength, beauty and diversity of the local 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Jazz at the Farm goes Saturday, July 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Prestige PG Hotel featuring July A Salde. Step into a work of enchanting melodies and soulful improvisations with live performances at Locals by Farmhouse in the Prestige. There is no cover charge to enjoy the music during dinner.

Santana Summer Street Fest goes Saturday, July 13 from 5 to 11:30 p.m. at

Paws 4 Stories at the Prince George Public Library main branch goes July 17 and 24 for the first group of children between the ages of five to 12 and the second group on August 7, 14 and 21 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Children can read a story to a good dog from the St. John’s Ambulance Therapy Dog program so they can relax and forget about feeling nervous to discover that love and reading go hand-in-paw. There is limited space in the program. To register call 250-563-9251 ext. 100.

MIPSMUSIC.BIZ

The Mip Power Trio plays live at Omineca Arts Centre with the Crones on Thursday, July 11 at 9 p.m.

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Mid-Summer Eve Artisan Market at Studio 2880 goes Thursday, July 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. This event is presented by the Prince George & District Community Arts Council. Sweet summer air, an evening stroll and an artistic vibe await guests during this evening artisan market. Explore the grounds of Studio 2880, find a variety of makers, foods, while enjoying eclectic music.

Shine & Dine goes Thursday, July 18 at 6 p.m. at Mulino Kitchen, 601 Victoria St. This event is the exclusive launch of tickets sales for the PG Humane Soceity’s Diamonds Are Furever Ladies’ Night that takes place on Sept. 7 at the Civic Centre. Meet some charming animals on the patio while supporting a noble cause and savouring an wonderful dining experience. Tickets are $55. More information at www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/ prince-george-humane-society/events/ mulino-kitchen-presents-shine-dine/

Downtown Summerfest goes Saturday, July 20 at Veteran’s Plaza at City Hall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is one of Downtown Prince George’s signature festivals. Every year guests can enjoy Summer Fun For Everyone and join the party to celebrate fun, food, activities, and entertainment. ***

Kids Carnival at Huble Homestead goes Saturday, July 20 from 10:30 to 4 p.m. Venture north to the homestead for a whirlwind of fun, as you and your family test your skills at carnival games with guaranteed prizes. Magic shows, old-fashioned games, the always-popular parachute, story time and crafts are on offer. Huble Homestead is a historic site located 40 km north of Prince George on Mitchell Road. Admission is by donation.

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Tacos and Sangria goes Sunday, July 21 from 3 to 6:30 p.m. at Northern Lights Estate Winery featuring tacos, sangria, sweet treats, music, yard games, a selfie

booth. Tickets are $80+GST at www. buynorthernlightswines.com. ***

CN Centre Night Market goes July 23 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. where a variety of local artisans, makers and vendors will be on hand to showcase their wares. Enjoy delicious culinary delights from food trucks, live entertainment and there’s even a petting zoo. All profits go to the Chuck Chin Legacy Fund.

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Wicked and Grim: A Trued Crime podcast LIVE goes Wednesday, July 31 at 7 p.m. at Trench Brewing & Distilling, 399 Second Ave. Wicked and Grim celebrate their 200th episode by going live for the first time ever as they delve into

Farmers’ Market goes every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. where  local food producers fill the street as musicians pluck their instruments, and visitors start their weekends with a round of breakfast sandwiches and hot coffee. Traditional farm fresh meat and produce is available alongside wild-foraged seasonal fiddleheads and morels, rounded out by selection of local arts and baked treats.

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Prince George Farmers’ Market goes every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. where visitors will find around 100 members offering everything from local vegetables, ethically-raised grass-fed meats, baking, fruits, hot foods, coffee, honey and jams and jellies, preserves, and a wide variety of artisan products including jewelry and crafts.

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Craft & Chat at the main branch of the Prince George Public Library goes every Saturday from 1 pm. to 3 p.m. in the magazine corner, second floor, where fibre artists are invited to bring their latest projects to share, vent your frustrations, brag about successes, get and give help and join in lively discussions. Snacks provided. This event is in partnership with Great Northwest Fibre Fest.

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a gripping true crime event. Includes the live recording, audience interaction – hang out with fellow true crime enthusiasts. There are door prizes as well. For more information visit www. wickedandgrim.com. ***

Thursdays at the Park goes every week at The Exploration Place, 333 Becott Place, and will see Cruisin Classic Car Club parked outside so people can check out the classic cars. Origins Kitchen will feature specials at their take-out window and the Little Prince steam engine will be running from noon to 8 p.m.

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Wilson Square Community

Story Walk at Masich Place is open during public walking hours at the track. Simply start at the first sign and follow the story around the track. Stories change monthly. For the public walking schedule visit www.princegeorge.ca/ parks-recreation/masich-place-stadium.

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Trivia Night at Nancy O’s goes every other Wednesday at 8 p.m., 1261 Third Ave. There are three rounds per game, each round has five themed questions and five music questions. Book your spot by calling ahead at 250-562-8066.

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Coffee and Cars is a family-friendly weekly event held every Saturday from 7 to 9 a.m. until Sept. 29 at Tim Horton’s, 612 East Central St., wbrings Prince George’s diverse car culture together.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The streets of downtown Prince George will be busy during Summerfest, returning Saturday, July 20 at Canada Games Plaza.

McIntosh reappointed as UNBC chancellor

CITIZEN STAFF

Darlene McIntosh, an Elder with the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, has been reappointed by the University of Northern British Columbia’s board of governors as chancellor for a second term.

“It has been my honour and pleasure to serve as chancellor of UNBC. I have seen the positive impacts of the University’s achievements and I am grateful for the opportunity to carry on in the role for another term,” McIntosh says. “Engaging with students, faculty, staff and community at campus events, at the First Nations Centre and convocation and graduation ceremonies across northern British Columbia has been so rewarding. We see truth and reconciliation taking place like never before and I look forward to continuing to enhance connections across the region and advancing UNBC’s shared goals around education, research and community impact. The future looks so bright.”

As chancellor, McIntosh serves on UNBC’s senate and board of governors, confers degrees at UNBC’s convocation and joins in graduation celebrations at UNBC’s campuses in Terrace, Quesnel and Fort St. John. She also represents UNBC at the Convocation at the Wilp

Wilxo’oskwhl Nisga’a Institute in Gitwinksihlkw, B.C.

McIntosh began her role on July 15, 2022 and was officially installed at a special ceremony on Oct. 21, 2022.

A review committee composed of members of UNBC’s board of governors,

senate and alumni council recommended McIntosh’s reappointment to the Board of Governors for a second term. The term begins on May 1, 2025 and runs until April 30, 2028.

“It has been a pleasure to work alongside Chancellor McIntosh the past two years. Her reappointment as chancellor ensures the UNBC community will continue to benefit from her wisdom, guidance and profound commitment to our mission to ignite, inspire and lead change,” says UNBC president Geoff Payne. “Thank you to everyone who provided feedback to the review committee and to the committee members for the dedication.”

McIntosh works as a cultural advisor at the College of New Caledonia where she provides holistic support, encouragement and guidance to Indigenous students, staff and faculty and promotes understanding of Indigenous culture, values and protocols.

McIntosh is the university’s eighth chancellor.

AiMHi expanding its services into Smithers

CITIZEN STAFF

AiMHi is announcing its expansion to Smithers, taking over community living support services offered there by Gorbahn Professional Alternative Resources (GPAR).

“The decision to integrate GPAR into AiMHi was driven by the remarkable synergy between our organizations,” AiMHi states in a press release.

“Both AiMHi and GPAR share similar values and a deep commitment to person-centered support.

The retiring owner of GPAR recognized this alignment and chose AiMHi as the best fit to continue the mission of providing excellent care and support.

This development will include three residential houses, supporting eight individuals, and bring 22 new employees into AiMHi .

AiMHi has been providing services for 67 years in Prince George.

“We are honouwred to extend our services to Smithers,” said Mark Zuberbuhler, CEO of AiMHi.

“This expansion not only broadens our impact but also reinforces our dedication to strengthening communities and supporting individuals in leading fulfilling lives. We are excited about the opportunities this brings and look forward to working closely with our new team members and the Smithers community.”

AiMHi, the Prince George Association for Community Living, is a non-profit organization that assists people with developmental disabilities. It’s one of B.C.’s largest providers of these types of services.

For more information visit aimhi.ca or call 250-564-6408.

Elder Darlene McIntosh will serve a second term as the chancellor of the University of Northern British Columbia.

A new season for the Performing Arts Series

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

Citizen staff

The second season of the Performing Arts Series has been announced, which is presented by the Community Arts Council of Prince George & District and Trinity United Prince George.

The series is set to start in September where audiences will see performers come from around the globe in productions celebrating cultural excellence and artistic innovation.

Included in the series is Jeremy Ledbetter Trio’s fiery fusion of contemporary jazz and world music, Duo Cordelia’s captivating reinterpretation of classical masterpieces, as well as the highly anticipated Proximity by Josh Beamish’s Move the Company, which was originally scheduled for last season.

“We are thrilled to present such a diverse and dynamic lineup for the second season of the Performing Arts Series,” said Rev. Dr. Bob Fillier, Lead Minister, Trinity United Prince George.

“Each performance offers unique opportunities to engage with the arts in new and exciting ways, fostering connections and sparking inspiration within our community.”

Shelby Richardson, CAC performing arts program manager, said the Performing Arts Series is the result of a unique and deep collaboration between two community-based organizations and is leading the way in activating new and existing cultural facilities such as the Knox Performance Centre and the P.G. Playhouse.

“Our goal is to inspire our diverse community to become a centre of creativity and well-being - a place where art has no boundaries,” Richardson said.

During the season audiences will be treated to the captivating harmonies of O’Celli’s eight cellos, the heartfelt storytelling of J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow with Tom Allen & Friends, featuring pianist Jamie Parker, and a double-bill performance featuring Calder White’s Baby and Tara Cheyanne’s Body Parts.

The season culminates with a fantastic presentation of Indigenous classical music by the Jessica McMann Trio.

Performing Arts Series’ second season, which

presented by the

Along with the shows the series will offer a variety of workshops and community engagement opportunities, like participating in a hoop dancing workshop led by visiting artist Jessica McMann.

Here is the line up for the Performing Arts Series:

• Jeremy Ledbetter Trio, September 28, 2024, Knox Performance Centre

• Duo Cordelia, Oct. 30, 2024, Knox Performance Centre

• Move: The Company, November 30, 2024, Prince George Playhouse

• O’Celli, Dec. 7, 2024, Knox Performance Centre

• J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow, April 24, 2025, Knox Performance Centre

• Tara Cheyenne/ Calder White, May 10, 2025, Prince George Playhouse

• Jessica McMann Trio, May 25, 2025, Knox Performance Centre

Tickets can be purchased at www. knoxcentre.ca/event-details-registration/ performing-arts-series-2024-2025.

the

Saturday, July 20, 2024

JEREMY LEDBETTER TRIO

The

includes

Jeremy Ledbetter Trio and other artists, starts in Septem ber. It’s

Community Arts Council of Prince George & District and Trinity United Prince George.

Fun in the sun on the first Foodie Friday

Citizen photos by Chuck Nisbett

Foodie Friday got the summer off to a tasty start on Friday, July 5.

Held at Canada Games Plaza (725 Canada Games Way), the event ran from noon to 4 p.m. and attracted people looking to try something tasty from local food trucks. There was also live music and outdoor activities, like Connect 4 and Ladder Ball.

Vendors included Smokehouse on the Run, Afro Caribbean and Joel’s Cookies, with music by Amanda Wood.

Other musicians lined up for the summer include Grace Hoksbergen, and Sam Holden, with food by Frank’s Family Kitchen, Baller Foods and more.

Food truck operators, vendors, and entertainers who wish to take part can email eventservices@princegeorge.ca for more information.

TOP LEFT: Everly, 2, and Thatcher Farrow enjoy fries and cookies.

BOTTOM LEFT: Amanda Wood adds to the ambience with her vocals and guitar.

BELOW: J.P. Asquith enjoys a burger from the Smokehouse trailer.

Families

enjoyed music, games and plenty to eat at Canada

Games

Plaza, with more to come

LEFT: Chad and Caroline Mereski take on their daughter Charlotte, 12, and Emily George, 7, in a game of Connect 4, provided by Tourism PG.

BELOW LEFT: William Walker, 21 months old, gives the giant Connect 4 game a try with the help of his mom Jillian.

BELOW: Melynda Martin, assistant curator at Two Rivers Gallery on an exchange from Quebec City, enjoys the beautiful weather and music.

FOODIE FRIDAY RETURNS JULY 19, 26, AUG. 2, 9, 16, 30

First-time author travelled the world to teach

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Seventy-eight-year old first-time author Monica Murphy tells the story of changing careers at the age of 50 to become a world-travelling English teacher.

The book is called Wats, Wadis and Waterfalls: A Canadian Woman’s Travel and Teaching Experiences in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

The idea had been sparking for a while before she made it happen.

“Friends kept telling me ‘you should write a book’ when I would tell them stories about things that had happened overseas,” Murphy recalled.

Before she ventured to foreign lands Murphy was an unhappy telemarketer who thought she’d rather go on an adventure than spend her working hours on the phone.

“I just couldn’t stand it anymore, bothering people on the phone,” Murphy said with a shake of her head.

So off she went. “In most countries I was treated pretty well as they have a lot of respect for

Site C reservoir filling begins late this summer

As part of the completion of the Site C project, we plan to begin filling the reservoir between Fort St. John and Hudson’s Hope in late August 2024.

There will be permanent changes to the Peace River. Here’s what to expect:

○ Reservoir water levels will rise for up to four months, by 0.3 to three metres per day. The river will widen by two to three times on average.

○ The existing Halfway River boat launch will permanently close on August 12. New boat launches will be inaccessible until at least spring 2026 as BC Hydro monitors the surrounding slopes for safety.

○ Please stay off the reservoir and its tributaries, specifically the Halfway River, during filling and use extreme caution near the shoreline.

For more information visit SiteCproject.com/reservoir or call 1 877 217 0777

their elders,” Murphy said. “The food was a big part of it and there was a lot of delicious food. The

experience of teaching and the friends I made along the way were highlights for me. In some places there was a big ex-pat community. That was true especially in Oman – we were busy almost every night of the week. It was fun getting together with people of different cultures – and not just the culture that we were teaching in but those I was teaching with because there wasn’t a lot of Canadian teachers.”

Educators mostly came from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Murphy took on more contracts as the years passed, taking her all over the world.

Finally, Murphy returned to Canada with Milo, a pup from a Cambodian street dog’s litter, but that story is best left for Murphy to tell in her book. Murphy will host a book launch locally later in the summer and in the meantime the book is available at Books & Co., and online at FriesenPress, Amazon, Apple and other book-selling outlets.

Curbside service now at Nechako library

Nechako Branch of the Prince George Public Library is opening for curbside service beginning Wednesday, July 3.

The branch has been closed since Monday, June 24, following a roof leak that caused significant damage to the library.

Patrons can place holds and pick up their items when the items are ready during open hours:

Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition, Nechako Branch will offer themed topic pickups with 24 hours advance notice.

Patrons can reach the Nechako Branch by phone at 250-563-9251, ext. 400 for more information on this service or to make their requests.

Services such as printing, interlibrary

The Prince George Public Library Nechako branch had to be closed after flooding caused by a leaky roof.

loan requests, and more complex reference support will be available at Bob Harkins Branch, downtown, or via email at ask@pgpl.ca.

Repairs to the roof are underway and the branch could reopen as soon as Friday, July 12, depending on weather conditions.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Monica Murphy of Prince George is a first-time author at 78. Her book delves into her adventures as she traveled the world starting at age 50 as a teacher of English in foreign lands.

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Deciduous Heroes on tour to protect forests

CITIZEN STAFF

Following successful events in Oregon and the Okanagan, the “Deciduous Heroes” tour wrapped up in Prince George on Wednesday.

Jen Côté of Moose, Mushrooms and Mud and local MLA and longtime trapper Mike Morris joined Stop the Spray B.C. founder James Steidle at 1299 3rd Ave. to talk about the value of deciduous trees sprayed with herbicides or suppressed with brush saws to grow conifer plantations.

“The tour has been a real opportunity to connect with different communities throughout the Pacific Northwest who are facing similar issues,” says Steidle. “The common denominator is that the industrialization of our forests and discrimination against our broadleaved deciduous species is having real impacts on communities and wildlife values.”

Oregon and Washington communities have seen heavy clearcutting and herbicide spraying of watersheds that provide communities with drinking water.

Rockaway Beach’s drinking watershed, Jetty Creek, is perhaps the best example of the worst practices. In the past 20 years, this small 1,340-acre watershed has been 90 per cent deforested and extensively sprayed with herbicides, which turned up in the town’s drinking water in 2013, he said.

The primary goal of spraying in Oregon and Washington is to kill red alder, a critical species for biodiversity that was recognized as a fire-break as long ago as 1917, said Steidle.

He said Okanagan residents have not experienced the same level of herbicide spraying, but extensive clearcut logging has left a denuded landscape increasingly being converted into highly flammable and low-biodiversity pine plantations, an issue Peachland residents have been actively highlighting. Forest companies continue to mechanically suppress fire-resistant aspen throughout the Okanagan.

Prince George regional forests have perhaps been the most extensively sprayed in the province. This has

The primary habitat and food of moose is the deciduous forest type being sprayed and suppressed, Stop the Spray’s James Steidle said during a tour stop in Prince George.

significantly reduced the amount of aspen, birch and cottonwood tree cover, which increases the risk of fire and reduces the wildlife carrying capacity of the forests, he said.

The extensive spraying and brushing of local deciduous forests has coincided with catastrophic declines in moose and high rates of apparent moose starvation.

The primary habitat and food of moose is the deciduous forest type we spray and suppress, he said.

Reducing aspen tree cover also reduces cattle grazing, reduces soil moisture and nutrients, undermines hydrological function, reduces carbon sequestration and makes climate change worse, he said.

The event took place on the unceded lands of the Lheidli T’enneh and was blessed by local Lheidli T’enneh elder Victor Joseph.

Bringing the hammer down: A masters athlete comes up against Olympic hopefuls

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

I am a goofy masters athlete who throws things at track & field meets every now and then.

Most recently I had the most unexpected stop-you-in-your-tracks, takeyour-breath-and-rip-it-out-of-your-lungs kind of experience few athletes could ever hope to have – especially at 60 years old.

I attended the B.C. Masters Track & Field Championships in Kelowna from June 28 to 30 with 94 other masters athletes and 442 young athletes, like the ones you’d expect at a track meet, who participated in the Jack Brow Memorial Meet. The masters piggybacked on the major event and it was so great to see all those young sporty types doing their thing.

That’s when the most incredible thing happened. The senior athletes between 20-34 years old – not to be confused with the masters athletes 35+ years –were grouped together with the masters and suddenly I was throwing hammer with some of the world’s best at the Apple Stadium.

It was Sunday, the last day of the Olympic qualifiers, and we had four Olympic hopefuls throwing with us to try to achieve the Olympic standard of 74 metres in the women’s hammer throw. Did I say Olympic enough in that sentence?

But just think about it for a second. Me, 60, throwing hammer – usually with a huge grin on my face because it’s fun for me – with those elite athletes whose grit and determination was written all over their faces, their fate literally being flung out of their hands at a high velocity trying to lock in that invitation to the world’s biggest athletic contest. The atmosphere was charged with such intensity you could feel it like a rain shower.

I, for once in my throwing life, shut up (mostly) and just watched in awe.

Let’s put things in perspective. I don’t even throw my hammer 30 metres.

These beautiful athletes were throwing between 67 and 72 metres. They came from the States, Toronto, Australia and B.C. and they were magnificent.

In the big leagues the part of the cage closest to the throwing field, is a hinged contraption set on wheels. It’s moved in so that only the throwing zone is exposed to the high-powered throws narrowing the gap you throw through by an intimidating margin.

Nobody can throw out of bounds in the field so if you’re not in the sector it hits the netting around the cage. You feel like you’re in a cocoon. So weird. Five turns is the norm for these fantastically talented throwers. I counted. Again for perspective, I have one turn and it’s wonky most days.

I watched as the hammers landed at the end of the field where the experienced officials would race to where it landed to mark its distance. The officials had their work cut out for them and

they were brilliant.

And I watched with my mouth hanging open at the surreal distances these ladies were achieving.

I watched their feet in the circle as they spun five times, then I watched the trajectory of their release. I just took it all in.

And there were other fabulous things happening during the competition too. There were five other masters athletes throwing their best along with me, the doddler. Yes, I doddle. I admit it.

We had two women masters hammer throwers break Canadian records right in front of my eyes. They didn’t just break these records, they smashed them to smithereens and I got to watch that too. I got to cheer for them like crazy, give high fives and witness the excellence in the circle over and over again and it was a real privilege to be part of it.

Finally I got to say a few quiet words

to one Olympic hopeful. She was tall and glowing with youth and health and determination and exuded this light that could not be quelled.

She came to stand beside me and she leaned in just a tiny bit and our shoulders brushed. I took that as my cue to speak to her. I told her it was a pleasure to watch her throw and she was truly amazing.

She smiled, with her head bent because I was tiny compared to her and she humbly accepted the compliment. I wanted to say more gushy things but I knew that even though she was standing beside me, in her mind’s eye she was already in the circle making her next attempt at greatness. She didn’t even realize how her influence had already washed over all the other athletes around her and we were all just basking in the glow of youth and ambition and hope.

It was fantastic. I loved every minute of it and I appreciate everyone putting up with the athlete that walked around just happy to be there and soaking it all in.

I am one grateful masters thrower to have had those few moments with those star hammer throwers who threw so high the hammer seemed to get lost in the clouds.

I wish them all the greatest success. They deserve all the accolades they will get for their efforts now and in the future.

P.S. I just checked in on these incredible athletes and two of the throwers I was on the roster with are now on the list of hopefuls that may receive a World Athletics Invitation to the Olympics in Paris.

As it was explained to me there is a way to get that invitation for points accumulated at meets and their consistently amazing throws distances, without having met the 74-metre standard. They will get the good word by July 7. My fingers, toes, ankles, eyes and elbows are crossed for them.

Christine Dalgleish is a Citizen reporter and athlete.

PGTF COACH CASSAUNDRA O’BRIEN PHOTO CREDIT

Christine Dalgleish, 60, doing a turn in weight throw similar to the turn used for hammer throw at the BC Masters Track & Field Championships in Kelowna on June 28, 2024.

Property sales up in Prince George and area

CITIZEN STAFF

Real estate sales in the area are on the rise, the Northern Real Estate Board (BCNREB) reports.

The board states that 2,286 properties were sold through the Multiple Listing Service in the first six months of 2024, up from the 2023 sales reported in the first half of 2023.

The value of these properties was $939.6 million compared with $826.7 million in 2023. At the end of June, there were 3,682 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS, up from 3546 at the same time last year.

Sales in the BC Northern region rose to their highest level since Q2 of 2022 in the second quarter of 2024. At 1,021 sales on a seasonally adjusted basis, housing market activity in the region was just 3 per cent below the historical average level last quarter. Seasonally adjusted active listings ticked downwards in Q2.

With 1,794 units at the end of June of 2024, the current level of active listings is about 15 per cent below the level needed for the market to be in long-run balance.

The average sale price in the board area rose by 7 per cent from last quarter to a new record of $434,000 in the second quarter, surpassing the previous record of $431,000 in Q2 of 2022. The seasonally adjusted average days on market fell to 68 from 72 in Q1.

Markets around the board region varied. Seasonally adjusted sales rose from the prior quarter in 100 Mile House, Fort St John, Kitimat, Prince George, and Terrace, while declining in Prince Rupert, Quesnel, Smithers, and Williams Lake.

Overall, the housing market in the BC Northern Board tightened somewhat from the prior quarter, with sales up, listings down, and prices setting a slight record. But the market is still not hot, and the sales-to-active listings ratio is in balanced territory.

The Bank of Canada cut its policy rate for the first time since 2020 last quarter, and buyers may enter the market in greater numbers if the bank continues to cut into the summer and fall as is widely anticipated, the board reports.

Prince George: In the City of Prince George, 641 properties worth $306.1 million have changed hands so far this year, compared with 545 properties worth $254 million in the first six months of last year. In the western part of the city, the median price of the 113 single-family homes that have sold through MLS was $464,900. In the area east of the bypass, the 72 single-family homes that sold had a median price of $405,550. In the northern part of the city 76 single-family homes sold with a median price of $554,400. The 119 single-family homes that sold in the southwest section of the city had a median sale price of $550,000. At the end of June there were 781 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS in the City of Prince George. 100 Mile House: 179 properties worth $79.8 million have changed hands through the MLS in the area since Jan. 1. This compares with 167 properties worth $68 million in the same period in 2023. Half of the 59 homes that sold so far this year sold for $485,000 or less and, on average, it took 66 days for these homes to sell. Also reported sold were 34 parcels of vacant land, 42 homes on acreage, 7 manufactured homes in parks, 14 manufactured homes on land, and 15 recreational properties. At the end of June there

available for purchase through the MLS® in the Quesnel area.

Vanderhoof: Realtors in the Vanderhoof area reported 54 sales worth $18.2 million in the first six months of the year, compared to 48 sales worth $21.3 million to June 30, 2023. As of June 30, there were 110 properties of all types available for purchase through the ML in the Vanderhoof area.

Fort St. James: 27 properties worth $7.4 million have sold through the MLS in the Fort St. James area so far this year, compared with 15 properties worth $3.3 million in the first six months of 2023. At the end of June there were 47 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the Fort St. James area.

were 483 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the 100 Mile House area.

Williams Lake: 211 properties have sold so far this year, compared to 162 properties by June 30, 2023. The value of these properties is $85.6 million ($56.4 million in 2023). Of the 75 single-family homes sold this year, half sold for less than $460,000 and these homes took, on average, 42 days to sell. In addition, 18 parcels of vacant land, 17 townhouses, 45 homes on acreage, 25 manufactured homes in parks and 19 manufactured homes on land changed hands in the first six months of 2024. At the end of June there were 249 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the Williams Lake area.

Quesnel: In the Quesnel area, realtors reported 147 sales worth $55.4 million so far this year, compared to 139 sales worth $47.2 million in the first six months of 2023. Of the 54 single-family homes sold between January and June, half sold for less than $388,500; these homes took on average, 62 days to sell.

In addition, 19 parcels of vacant land, 40 homes on acreage, 15 manufactured homes in parks and 9 manufactured homes on land have sold in the first six months of 2024. As of June 30, there were 268 properties of all types

Fort St. John: Realtors assisted in the sale of 331 properties worth $120 million in the first half of 2024, compared to 293 properties worth $117.2 million in the first six months of 2023. The 140 single-family homes which sold so far this year had a median selling price of $382,500 and it took, on average, 65 days for these homes to sell. In addition, 25 parcels of vacant land, 41 half-duplexes, 25 homes on acreage, 15 manufactured homes in parks and 20 manufactured homes on land changed hands so far this year. As of June 30, there were 509 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS in the Fort St. John area.

Fort Nelson: 26 properties worth $5.3 million have sold since Jan.  1, compared to 42 properties worth $5.6 million in the same period last year. Half of the 9 single-family homes sold since January sold for less than $233,000. These homes took, on average, 136 days to sell. At the end of June, there were 130 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS in the Fort Nelson area.

Mackenzie: In the first six months of 2024, 53 properties worth $9.6 million were reported sold through the MLS in the Mackenzie area, compared to 24 properties worth $5.2 million to June 30, 2023. Half of the 41 single-family homes sold so far this year sold for less than $179,000 and took, on average, 115 days to sell.

CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO

In Prince George, 2,286 properties were sold through the Multiple Listing Service in the first six months of 2024, up from 2023.

BC Timber Sales Stuart Nechako

INVITATION TO COMMENT - FOREST OPERATIONS MAP

The public is invited to review and comment on BC Timber Sales Stuart Nechako (TSN) Forest Operations Map, showing proposed road construction and cut block development under Forest Stewardship Plan #142 within Forest Development Units in the Stuart Nechako Natural Resource District. The map will be valid for the operating period from August 12, 2024 –August 12, 2027. During the operating period, the Timber Sales Manager may invite applications for Timber Sale Licenses for the harvesting of cut blocks shown on the map and apply for road permits to construct roads shown on the map.

The map is available for public review and comment online, at: fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

The map is also available for in-person review and comment by appointment at the BC Timber Sales Stuart Nechako Office, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at BC Timber Sales Stuart Nechako, Box 190, 1560 Highway 16 East Vanderhoof, B.C., V0J 3A0, Tel: 250 567-6363.

Comments will be accepted from July 11 – August 11, 2024. Comments may be submitted online at fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects, emailed to Megan.Yelland@gov.bc.ca, delivered to the address above during business hours, or mailed to:

BC Timber Sales Stuart Nechako

Attn: Megan Yelland Box 2260, 1 Cicada Drive Mackenzie, B.C. V0J 2C0

If you have questions or require assistance, please contact Megan Yelland at Megan.Yelland@gov.bc.ca

New transit shelters

Upgrades will be made to 31 bus shelters over the next month. The new shelters will have a more modern design and will include new seating and lighting for passenger comfort and safety, states a B.C. Transit press release. Transit users may notice some minor disruptions at their stops during the process. Work began July 8 with the final shelter expected to be completed by Aug. 2.

Yarn Swap and Social for all the fibre artists

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

The Yarn Swap and Social will take place at the Prince George Public Library Saturday, July 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. where people can bring in yarn they won’t ever use for something more appealing to them.

The 2024 Great Northwest Fibre Fest organizers are co-hosting the event with the library where people can not only swap their yarn but also bring in their knitting, crocheting, tatting, embroidery and have a nice visit with other crafters at the cozy fibre-forward social.

People can swap their yarn, donate it or make purchases by donation if they don’t have anything to swap.

“We want everyone to be able to participate,” Bonne Leiphart, one of the organizers of the Yarn Swap, said.

When the swapping is all done there are always a few leftovers and the library gets first pick for their crafting events and then the rest is donated to charity thrift stores.

“And even for people who just wander through it’s just a lot of fun,” Bonne said.

People can donate their yarn ahead of time if they can’t make it to the swap but would like their extras to go to a good home.

“The library will accept the yarn the week before the event,” Bonne said.

People can even drop off their yarn at any service desk at the downtown branch of the library during open hours from July 24 and 28.

There is also a Craft & Chat at the main branch of the Prince George Public Library which takes place every Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. in the magazine corner, second floor, where there is excellent light and fibre artists are invited to bring their latest projects to share, vent frustrations, brag about successes, get and give help and join in lively discussions. Snacks provided. This event is in partnership with Great Northwest Fibre Fest organizers and the fibre fest is scheduled for Sept. 8 at the Connaught Youth Centre.

Throwback Thursday: Week of July 11

July 11, 1967: Children take part in the Fort George Park painting program with supervisor Pam Barmettler. This was the beginning of the these classes, held at what is now L’heidli T’enneh Memorial Park and modelled on other such programs in the province. For $11 each child received a drawing board, a box of paints, a brush, a box of crayons and other equipment.

Citizen file photo

11, 2011:

July 11, 1975: Summer’s a breeze on 10-speed bicycles for Cindy Sherlock and Gerry Berg, who found a way to keep cool and exercise at the same time. Other city residents were less lucky as Celsius temperatures continued to hang in the 30s, something local residents were feeling again recently.

Citizen photo by Len Tenisci

July 11, 1990: Mr. PG advocate Doreen Denicola makes the small version of the wellknown Prince George symbol for AiMHi to distribute to local gift shops. She was looking for Mr. P.G. memorabilia for a Homecoming display tracing the wooden man’s history, and The Citizen put out the call on its front page on this day 34 years ago.

Citizen photo by Dave Milne

July

Rob Rucuenco of Canada slides home past catcher Desmond Russell of the Bahamas during the World Baseball Challenge, held at Citizen Field. Canada beat the Bahamas 13-7. The six-team tournament included a thrilling 4-3 win for Cuba against Toshiba Japan in an evening game. Citizen photo by David Mah

Healthy North

See a pharmacist

Have a minor medical complaint? Book an appointment with a pharmacist today! Get assessed by a pharmacist for a number of minor ailments, including pink eye, urinary tract infections, canker sores, and more. You can also get prescriptions for contraception at the pharmacy. Book an appointment with a prescribing pharmacist near you - online or by telephone (1-833-882-0022). In many cases there is same-day availability. For more information visit: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/health/accessing-health-care/pharmacy-services

Physical Activity Resources

If you live in a rural and remote community, virtual services can help you access services not readily available in your home community. Both physical activity resources and physiotherapy services can be accessed virtually! Whether you’re looking to speak to a physiotherapist or participate in an exercise program, virtual services can connect you with what works best for you wherever you are. For more info, visit: Northernhealth.ca/health-information/physicalactivity/virtual-and-home-based-activity-options .

Preparing for smoke

Northerners are learning to live with wildfire smoke. Each year, spring and summer bring lingering smoke for weeks (and sometimes months) in many communities. It’s important that we plan yearround to protect our communities, even before the smoke rolls in. Read how smoke can affect our heath and the ways you can prepare for smoky conditions here: Stories.northernhealth.ca/stories/ smoky-times-how-communities-can-help-young-families-wildfire-smoke.

Northern Clinical Simulation team purchases new monitor/defibrillator equipment

The Northern Clinical Simulation program uses life-sized, anatomically correct mannequins, known as “simulators,” to provide realistic training for health care professionals.

The simulators, which can breathe, speak, and bleed, provide practice in dealing with births, hemorrhages, broken limbs, heart attacks, and more. This lets health care professionals get hands-on experience while developing new skills, with zero risk to patients.

The Northern Clinical Simulation (NCS) team supports all education activities across Northern Health for all types of health care professionals, helping to enhance their skills and efficiency to improve patient outcomes. Recently, the team upgraded their monitor/defibrillator equipment to help them deliver all cardiac-related essential education.

The Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation has been a crucial partner in helping the NCS team upgrade high-performance equipment, ensuring that the simulation experience closely mirrors real-life situations on patient wards.

With the help of the Spirit of the North and their generous donors, the team purchased LIFEPAK 15 equipment last year. This has made a huge impact on how we deliver advanced cardiovascular life support and pediatric advanced life support across Northern communities.

lifesaving techniques with

LIFEPAK 15 monitor/defibrillator is an update to the industry’s most widely used automated external defibrillator (AED). According to the vendor, it represents “the new standard in emergency care for advanced life support teams.” By using LIFEPAK 15 units to train health care staff, we can enhance patient outcomes through improved quality and efficiency.

Before adopting the new units, the NCS team was using LIFEPAK 12 equipment to train staff. However, this older equipment was outdated and no longer

aligned with current medical practice, creating a huge challenge in trying to deliver high-quality education.

To bridge that learning gap, nurse educators sometimes had to bring LIFEPAK 15 units in from the floor to use for training, which could potentially affect patient care.

The Spirit of the North recognized this gap and helped the NCS team raise $40,000 to buy the more modern equipment.

I would like to extend huge gratitude towards the Spirit of the North and

Coralee Oakes

BC UNITED MLA, CARIBOO NORTH PHONE: 250-991-0296 EMAIL: coralee.oakes.mla@leg.bc.ca #401-410 Kinchant St., Quesnel Serving Cariboo North since 2013

their donors for helping us continue to deliver quality education across all Northern communities and improve patient outcomes!

Jasneil (Jas) Dhillon is the regional manager, Northern Clinical Simulation Program, and has been working with this team since 2019. He is responsible for simulation program delivery across Northern Health and works closely with our post-secondary education partners. Jas grew up in India and moved to Prince George in 2014 to pursue his higher education.

JASNEIL DHILLON Northern Health

Students (from left) Faith Thomas, Erika Morris, Sara Oullette, and Katherine Jones practicing

the new LIFEPAK 15 equipment.

Northern Health’s Dr. Charles Jago Award for Respect goes to Vanessa Kinch

Let’s Fix Health Care.

Northern Health

Northern Health (NH) strives to make our values – empathy, respect, collaboration, and innovation – the core of what we do every day.

The Dr. Charles Jago Awards, named after our former board chair, acknowledge and celebrate the NH staff, medical staff, and teams who have made outstanding contributions to the organization’s goals, reflecting our values in the process.

The Jago Award for Respect is presented to an individual or team who exemplifies outstanding behaviours and actions that demonstrate NH’s value of respect, by treating people with courtesy, politeness, and kindness; meeting people where they are; demonstrating curiousity about differences; encouraging others to express opinions and ideas; and fostering respect and understanding amongst team members.

Our recipient for the respect category is Vanessa Kinch.

Vanessa was born in Prince George, but raised in the Lower Mainland, and returned to her hometown to pursue a nursing degree. She began her journey as a frontline nurse in acute and ambulatory care.

With the attainment of her master’s degrees in nursing and health informatics, her professional journey took a transformative turn, leading her to the dynamic domain of digital health and health informatics.

She started in NH’s Information Management and Information Technology department as a graduate student, and now leads a team of health informatics professionals as the director of clinical informatics.

Vanessa’s career has allowed her the unique opportunity to travel the North, gaining insights into the distinctive needs of our Northern rural and remote communities and how technology needs to be tailored to those needs. Outside of work, Vanessa channels her creativity into crafting furniture

I am always impressed with Vanessa’s ability to engage and lead other with kindness and integrity. Her reputation at Northern Health and beyond is a testament to her ability to live her values at work.”

art and finds joy in outdoor activities, cake-decorating, and weightlifting. Her active family life includes her amazing husband, three children, and their English shepherd.

Below is an excerpt from the testimonial provided by Vanessa’s nominator, regional director of data analytics and information governance Andrea Lorette: “Vanessa consistently makes space for partners and participants, engaging others collaboratively, guided by an improvement and learning approach and using respectful intention and communication methods. As we come from different domains of practice, we often have different points of view and I have always felt Vanessa’s openness, curiosity, and authenticity in regard to the perspective and contribution of others. I am always impressed with Vanessa’s ability to engage and lead other with kindness and integrity. She demonstrates respect to her direct staff, those she is deeply involved on with on projects and acquaintances over brief interactions, not changing based upon audience. Her reputation at Northern Health and beyond is a testament to her ability to live her values at work.”

Please join me in congratulating Vanessa Kinch, our 2024 award recipient for respect!

Sanja is a communications advisor with Northern Health’s Human Resources department based in Prince George.

SANJA KNEZEVIC

NORTHERN HEALTH PHOTO

Ciro Panessa (left), Northern Health president & CEO, presents Vanessa Kinch, the director of clinical informations, with the Jago Award for Respect alongside Colleen Nyce, board chair.

Sports

Miguel Marques was in Nashville last week attending the Predators development camp. The Preds picked the 18-year-old Prince George native in the third round, 87th overall in last weekend’s NHL Draft.

Miguel Marques hits the ice in Smashville

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

If and when he cashes his first NHL paycheque, Miguel Marques will certainly want to pay back his parents in Prince George for footing the bills and making the sacrifices it took to raise their only son to become property of the Nashville Predators.

The Preds made that official on Saturday when they chose the 18-year-old Lethbridge Hurricanes right-winger in the third round, 87th overall in the NHL Draft.

Family ties run deep in the Marques household in the Heritage subdivision and the best appears yet come for Nilton and Zenaide Marques as they watch the next stage of Miguel’s hockey development in Nashville, where he’s getting his first taste of pro hockey this week at the Predators’ development camp. He’s already been featured in the sports section of The Tennessean, Nashville’s largest daily newspaper, which highlighted the fact that Marques is the first player of Portuguese descent in the Predators’ team history.

“That’s pretty special, my roots and my background, as a family it’s important to us and something we embrace,” said Marques. “When the soccer games are on and Portugal is playing that’s the kind of stuff we’re watching together and keeping up with that stuff. It’s pretty cool to have that, I know there’s some pretty good NHL players like (John) Tavares with Portuguese (roots).

His dad’s brother Nelson got Miguel started in hockey when he was six years old and it was rough beginning but he soon fell in love with the game.

“Nelson and my cousin (Tyler) were playing hockey and asked me if I wanted to try and play as well, and I thought playing mini sticks on the ice would be pretty cool,” said Marques.

“For the first couple practices I didn’t know how to skate and I was crying and wanted to get off the ice but Nelson put on the skates with me and coached me as well and that was huge help.”

“I don’t know if I’d be playing now if he hadn’t done that.”

On Saturday, July 6, Marques suited up in a Predators jersey to play with and against Nashville’s other top prospects,

including McBride native Tanner Molendyk, in an intersquad game. That came after a week of practices, skill sessions and seminars with guest speakers devoted to nutrition, yoga and mental health, and today’s 3-on-3 tournament.

After a season with the Cariboo Cougars U15s, Marques left Prince George at age 15 to play academy hockey at St. George’s in Vancouver. His coach that COVID-shortened 2020-21 season was former Prince George Cougars general manager Todd Harkins and that spring he was picked 10th overall in the WHL Prospects Draft by the Hurricanes. He moved to Delta Academy for his 16-yearold season and joined the Lethbridge last season as a WHL rookie, where he put up 28 goals and 74 points in 67 games.

“Last year was good, going into the season not knowing what to expect, we got a new coach (former Calgary Flames head coach Bill Peters) who has that NHL experience and he knew how to get to the next level,” said Marques.

“Just listening to him and the feedback he gave us, he shared his experiences of coaching guys who made it in

the NHL and had good careers and guys who could have made it but didn’t quite get there and the reasons, and all the hard work it takes, that was something that allowed me to grow and become a better player.”

Marques, 18, entered the draft as NHL Central Scouting’s 53rd-ranked North American skater and the Predators didn’t get far down their list before they selected him.

He was there in The Sphere in Las Vegas to meet the Predators coaching staff and scouts and try on his new jersey.

“Once my name got called it was relief after a long season and all the interviews with the teams and the combine, and that part’s over now,” he said. “Now the hard work again begins to get to the next chapter which is the National Hockey League or the American Hockey League, and that’s kind of where I’m at now.”

Marques has been in Vancouver skating with his academy buddies since the start of June.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS PHOTO

Track and field athletes bring home medals

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

The Prince George Special Olympics track and field team brought home the medals from the B.C. Region 7 & 8 qualifier held in Smithers on June 29.

There were 11 local athletes who competed in races, standing and running long jump, mini javelin, shot put and wheelchair events.

The group saw new and seasoned athletes compete to achieve their goals of representing their zone at the Special Olympics B.C. Games to be held in Prince George in 2025.

Here are the results for Prince George athletes:

• Ruth Caldwell took gold in mini javelin and the 100 metre race and bronze in standing long jump and shot put.

• Carla Caputo took gold in 200 metre, 400 metre, 800 metre races and mini javelin, while earning silver in 100 metre and shot put.

• Chase Caron took gold in the 100 metre, silver in running long jump and mini javelin, and bronze in shot put.

• David Dunn took gold in 1500 metre, 3000 metre, and running long jump, while placing silver in the 800 metre race.

• Tyler LeFebvre took gold in 25

metre wheelchair and 30 metre wheelchair slalom, silver in mini javelin and bronze in shot put.

• Audrey Nelson took gold in mini javelin, shot put and 100 metre and silver in standing long jump.

• Dallas Poole took silver in 100 metre and bronze in the 200 metre race and in shot put.

• Spencer Rourke took gold in the 200 metre race and shot put while earning silver in standing long jump.

• Adam Spokes took gold in running long jump and silver in mini javelin and shot put.

• Marinka VanHage took gold in the 100 metre race and silver in

the 200 and 400 metre races, and earned bronze in shot put and and mini javelin.

• Randella Willier took gold in the 200 metre race, standing long jump and shot put and earned silver in mini javelin.

The 2025 Special Olympics B.C. Summer Games will see about 1,100 athletes with intellectual disabilities compete in 10 summer sports including, track and field, 10-pin bowling, basketball, bocce, golf, rhythmic gymnastics, powerlifting, soccer, softball and swimming.

The provincial games will allow successful athletes to advance to national and international levels of competition. Athletes excelling at the B.C. Summer Games in Prince George next year will qualify for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, which in turn will be the national qualifier for the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

Later this summer there will be an announcement about who from Prince George will be eligible to move on to the 2025 Special Olympics B.C. Summer Games.

Many of the athletes are competing in several sports qualifiers and if they qualify for more than one sport they will have to make a choice about which sport to compete in at the Summer Games.

Draft Guide gives Marques a positive review

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

He hasn’t skated much in his hometown since he left for the academies, but did get to face the Cougars in a game last season at CN Centre when the Hurricanes visited and he did not disappoint his friends and family in the stands, potting a goal and two assists in a 6-4 loss.

For those who don’t know why he’s such a highly-touted prospect, the Elite Prospects 2024 NHL Draft Guide wrote the following about Marques: “Name an offensive skill, Marques brings it. He manipulates defenders to

open passing lanes, connects with backhand passes through impossible lanes, starts passing plays, breaks ankles, and snipes with textbook curl-and-drag shots.

“He constantly presses the inside, but knows when to cut back or pop the puck back to the trailer for a better look.”

It doesn’t mention his skating ability, but anybody in attendance at that Hurricanes-Cougars game on  Nov. 24 is liable to remember how quickly Marques can separate himself from an opponent when he gets up a head of steam to start an offensive rush.

He and Molendyk have known each other since they were in the same class together at Heritage Elementary School and they were minor hockey teammates in Prince George.

The Preds picked Molendyk, a powerful-skating Saskatoon Blades defenceman, in the first round, 23rd overall in 2023.

“There’s a few Western League here that reached out to me after the draft to congratulate me so after going to battle against them all the time, to have them here with me on my side as a teammate is cool,” Marques said.

“They did it before last year and

they know what to expect at the camp and how it works so having them here was a huge help and made me feel comfortable.”

Marques will return to Lethbridge in late August for the start of their WHL camp and hopes to be back in Nashville a couple of weeks later for the Predators rookie camp, with the main camp to follow.

Nashville just signed Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault as free agents and Marques says he’s looking forward to meeting them as well as incumbent Predators Roman Josi and Filip Forsberg.

VILMA VANHAGE PHOTO

These Special Olympics athletes competed at the B.C. Regional 7&8 qualifier in Smithers on June 29.

Big wins for local athlete Tyler Lefebvre at Special Olympics qualifier in Smithers

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

Citizen staff

Special Olympian Tyler LeFebvre took first place in the 25-metre wheelchair sprint and the 30-metre wheelchair slalom at the regional qualifier in track and field in Smithers last week.

LeFebvre is a seasoned athlete who is looking to qualify for the Special Olympics B.C. Summer Games to be held in Prince George in 2025.

LeFebvre also came away from the competition with a second in mini javelin and a third place finish in the shot put.

For LeFebvre it’s more about beating his own time every time he races because he is so unique in the sport. It is rare to have a wheelchair athlete in track and field.

“Tyler always works on beating his own time,” said his mom, Sue LeFebvre.

Speedy LeFebvre had personal bests in all four events at the regional qualifier.

His time coming into the 25-metre straight sprint was 24 seconds and during the competition he clocked in at 17.25 seconds.

For the 30-metre slalom where he cuts in and out of a series of pylons he came into the competition with a 38 second time trial and at the track meet he finished in 25.03 seconds.

“I like the straight stretch better and then the slalom,” he said.

“Tyler was amazing at the track meet, and his times crossing the finish lines during competition were incredible,” said Wilma VanHage, his coach, about the dedicated athlete. “He came to every practice and worked so hard and it certainly paid off.”

LeFebvre also beat both his shot put and mini javelin distances.

“I like the javelin better,” LeFebvre said. “For shot put it’s hard because you have to hold it here (indicating his neck) and then you have to throw it really high or it doesn’t work.”

LeFebvre started with the Special

Olympics when he was in high school.

“So it’s been about 25 years,” mom Sue said about his involvement. “He started bowling first and then when he was a bit more mobile he did soccer with his walker and some floor hockey and now he does curling in the winter and track and field in the summer.”

Tyler LeFebvre holds up the ribbons he won at the B.C. Region 7&8 qualifier in Smithers on June 29. He competed in multiple events, including the shot put, javelin, 5-metre wheelchair sprint and the 30-metre wheelchair slalom.

CITIZEN PHOTOS BY CHUCK NISBETT

1. Bungles

5. Mispronounce

9. Adam’s mate

12. Detroit athlete

13. Adrift

PUZZLE NO. 982

14. You bet!

15. Metallic vein

16. Afghans

18. Iron output

20. Hymn finale

21. Pottery oven

23. Smallest

27. The ____ (rock group)

30. Average skirt

32. Tiger ____

33. Cash in

35. Forty winks

37. Precinct

38. Huffed and puffed

41. Mails

43. Dormant

45. Graceful trees

47. Mexican sauce

51. Roman vehicles

55. Ledge

56. Rowing tool

57. Defendant’s answer

58. Give out

59. Fitness spot

60. Cause to go

61. Flightless bird DOWN

1. Additions

2. Ruckus

3. Went on horseback

4. Go secretly

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

6. Oahu, e.g. 7. Union 8. Wall section 9. Look over 10. Dog’s doc

11. Superman’s letter

17. Prepared to pray

19. Silent actor

22. Body part

24. “____ No Sunshine”

25. Side dish 26. Printed mistake

27. Covering 28. Leading man

29. Some poems 31. Cooled

PUZZLES & GAMES

PUZZLE NO. 984

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 982

24. Respectful wonder

25. Bashful

26. Mom and apple ____

29. Removable cover

30. Tavern brew

31. Farewell, for short

33. Difficult journey

35. “Roses ____ Red”

38. Sea bandit

41. Small cuts

42. Burn with liquid

43. Molten flow

44. Patron

45. Skilled cook

47. Approve

48. Extreme

49. Make ____ meet (get by)

52. Foundation

1. Boat’s front 4. Tennis-game divisions

8. Deadly snakes

12. Mimic

13. Instrument for an angel

14. Kingly address 15. Storyteller

17. Be informed about 18. Shine 19. Category 21. Beef or pork 23. Angry 27. Supply weapons to 30. Agitate

32. TV host Leno

33. Enemy

Choir voice

36. Refreshing drink

37. Witches

38. Expel

39. Fasten again 41. Chops

44. President’s no 46. Rustic

50. Too 53. Everyday 55. Behind 56. Avails

57. Shark appendage

58. Town’s kin

59. Apartment fee 60. Price add-on

In favor of

“A Bridge ____ Far”

Gambling

Life Events

Allan S. Delwo

July 19, 1948 - May 4, 2024

In loving memory of Allan S. Delwo, who peacefully departed from us on May 4, 2024, in Kamloops, BC. Born on July 19, 1948 in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, Allan was the beloved son of John and Matilda Delwo. He is now reunited with his loving wife and devoted mother, Betty Delwo, and is survived by his sons Aaron (Corally), Hugh (Kristie) and Brett, along with nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren

Allan embarked on a fulfilling journey in British Columbia, earning his Insurance Broker Certification and dedicating himself to a long and meaningful career in the insurance industry. His love for people was evident in his interactions, and he often imparted wisdom, encouraging others to pursue careers they loved. An avid lover of the outdoors, Allan found solace in nature, relishing walks, mushroom picking and the liberating feeling of exploration. A spiritual man, Allan’s essence now journeys through the universe, exploring its wonders. To many, Allan was not just a father but a confidant, a course of humor and a pillar of support. His sarcastic wit, genuine friendship and unwavering loyalty endeared him to all who knew him. Allan’s roles were numerous from the friend to colleague, from brother to handyman, each role filled with love and dedication. He was a deeply cherished father, brother, cousin and friend, whose sudden passing was as peaceful as he had hoped.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, where friends and family are invited to share cherished memories and laughter, honoring his legacy of love, laughter and camaraderie. In this time of remembrance, let us heed Allan’s wish to laugh, reminisce and smile together, celebrating a life well-lived.

On April 15, 2024 the world lost one of its brightest shining lights. Jean Sharon Burns “Gram“ went to be with Jesus and other loved ones who passed before her.

She was, is and always will be loved by many and her passing has left a mark on far too many to mention. She was the definition of selflessness and a true example of how to love unconditionally.

Her love spread far and wide, influenced many and blessed all. Her door was always open and she continually provided for everyone else before doing anything for herself. She will be dearly missed by everyone that was blessed enough to have been a part of her life. In honor of Gram please come and help us celebrate a life well lived.

Share stories, laughs and tears with the rest of her family and friends at 4020 Jade Dr Prince George at 1 pm on July 13th. Bring a picture, a story and a song.

In loving memory of Alexander Fredrick Hogh

June 20 1986 - July 8 2021

Years come and years go

Some go fast, some go slow

Each day a reminder of the times we had Some happy, some sad

With each memory I recall I’m reminded you’re not that far away at all

When I hear a voice say, deep within me “I’m right here mom and I always will be “

Never forgotten, Loved Forever Mom, Dad, Chris,Luke, Andy & Julia

Memory sent in love of my partner Gene Gratton who passed away July 18 2023. We

Form Loretta and family

Jean Burns

Feb 10, 1969 - July 2, 2024

Alisa was born Feb 10, 1969 with absolutely no filter. She passed away peacefully on July 2, 2024 . She was brutally honest and to know her was to love her. As instructed by my sister, “ my obituary better not be boring!!” You never had to guess what she was thinking as she had no problem telling you. She was great to shop with as if anything looked ridiculous on you she would let you know immediately. Many people found her refreshing to be around, others couldn’t quite figure her out. Alisa was one of the most loyal, free spirited, authentic people l have ever known. She loved life and a good hard laugh . She could be hilarious herself with colourful stories full of numerous antics. Once you entered her life you became like family to her, she accepted all for who they were, she never placed conditions or judgments on those she loved.

Alisa is survived by her partner Scott Lawson who compassionately cared for her at home for months. Her parents who not only brought her into this world but were by her side as she left it Albert and Laura Radzanowski. Her sisters Siobhan Moberg (Sever Hanson), and Caitlin Radzanowski. Her brother Heath Radzanowski (Pam ), nieces Aisling Massicotte (Jamie) and Sonia. Nephews Aaron Moberg (Terri), and Liam Moberg (Syi). Her second cousin Jeanette Janze, great nephew Bruce, and her Aunt Marnie Bateman.

Thank you to all the Home care nurses for all their support and care, we could not have had the ability to manage caring for her at home without you. They went above and beyond for my sister Alisa.

Huge gratitude and thanks to all the staff and volunteers at the Hospice House. Alisa was given exceptional care by everyone. You allowed me to go back to just being her sister and Scott to be her partner. You are all amazing people and you cared for her family as well.

A Celebration of Life will be arranged on a later date.

My relationship with my sister mattered to me, because when nobody else was there my sister always was. Alisa will live on in our hearts and memories reminding us of the love and the joy she brought into our lives. I know she’s at peace surrounded by butterflies.

Brent Ross Bye

Brent was born February 11, 1952, in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. He passed away suddenly on May 22, 2024, in Prince George, British Columbia.

Left to remember this remarkable man is his wife Stacy, sons Courtney and Taylor (Janessa), grandchildren Quinton, Lilly Jean, and Florence, his brother Dana (Jane), sisters Christine (Barry), Candice, and former wife Susan (Jerry).

The Bye family moved from Alberta to British Columbia in 1954. Brent spent his youth in Metchosin and Powell River where he developed a love for the forest and sea. He enrolled in the BCIT Forest Technician Program, graduating with his technical diploma in 1973. His more than 40 year forestry career began with the Ministry of Forests, spending thirteen years in various programs. Brent then became a successful private consultant, before returning to the provincial government with BC Wildfire Service until his retirement in 2017.

Brent really enjoyed retirement. He spent time travelling. His always curious mind continued to expand his knowledge of his many interests. And he liked having time to spend with family and just enjoy life.

Although a bit of a loner, Brent was held in high esteem by his colleagues, and will be missed by many. He was highly intelligent, opinionated, knowledgeable, (always right), but also kind to friends, colleagues, and family. He was also a terrific bridge player. And not to be forgotten, a Pyromaniac!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the PG Hospice Society or the Salvation Army.

The family would like to thank: Dr. Leigh HunsingerChang, BC Cancer Prince George Centre, and University Hospital of Northern BC for their wonderful care they gave to Brent throughout his illness.

Derek W. Niedermayer

Feb 22, 1984 June 9th 2024

He is survived by his Mother Marilyn Umpherville, Father Hemlut Niedermayer, Brothers Aaron Fehr (Jen), Jamie Niedermayer and Kelly Niedermayer, Sister Denise Fehr. Predeceased by his Sister Robyn Niedermayer.

A small graveside celebration of life will be held July 16th @ 1pm at the PG Cemetery where Derek will be laid with his Grandfather John Umpherville. Always miss you Always Love you.

Tank, you have brought joy to so many lives over the years, most especially ours.

Tank was rescued from the SPCA 12 years ago. My son Jessy and I stopped by the SPCA looking for a companion and found a small scruffy looking fella, with hair overgrown, looking as sweet as a dog can possibly look.

We were told that he had been found tied up at a dog park and was turned over to the SPCA. They explained that he was scheduled to fly south in a few days, as they had no luck in placing him. Without hesitation, we took him home.

The following day the forms were finalized, and a freshly bathed and groomed ‘Tank’, looking like he was wearing a tux, had found his forever home.

He spent many days on the beach, going for walks and snuggling everyone he could. In the years that followed Tank became the mascot at Great White Toys, where he regularly walked the floor saying hello to everyone that came in, and even posed for photos.

Tank was loved by many.

In February of 2024 Tank (AKA Tanky) went through surgery to remove a large mass on his spleen. A few weeks later it was confirmed that Tank had terminal cancer. After many walks and all the treats he could desire Tank again became ill.

You said goodbye peacefully and surrounded by family: Terresa, Cameron, Tatyana, and Jessy. We miss you already Tank, until we meet again in heaven.

Alisa Radzanowski

Classifieds

McLeod Lake Mackenzie Community Forest Corp. FOREST OPERATIONS MAP # MLMCF K2M 2024-1

McLeod Lake Mackenzie Community Forest’s Operations Map # MLMCF K2M 2024-1, public review and comment from July 15-August 15, 2024, at link below, or in person by appointment Mon-Fri 8am-4pm. Contact the forestry department at the email or phone number below in order to schedule an appointment. 127-403 Mackenzie Blvd, Mackenzie, BC, V0J 2C0. This FOM is applicable for 3 years and may be relied upon to apply for a cutting or road permit to harvest a cutblock or construct a road displayed on the FOM. 250-997-8155

generalmanager@mlmcf.ca https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects

LEGAL NOTICE

Woodlot 639 Woodlot Licence Plan Amendment

The Estate of Murray McLean has prepared an amendment to the currently approved Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) for this licence. This amendment has been prepared in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. Woodlot 639 is located approximately 3.7 km northeast of Shelly, BC and on the east side of the Fraser River.

Inquiries or comments concerning this Amendment must be submitted in writing to LMN Forest Management Ltd at 2891 St. Anne Avenue, Prince George, BC V2N 4Y4 by August 6 2024.

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

For further information about this proposal, please contact Mark Clark, RPF at 250-612- 8014 or markclarkrpf@gmail.com.

House For Rent

3 Bedroom house for rent near Spruceland. One bathroom.

No Smoking, No pets. $2000 per month plus add and Utilities. Call 250-596-0104

Trades Help

EXPERIENCED

TICKETED WELDER

Peace Valley Industries is seeking Experienced Welders for shop and field work in Chetwynd, BC. Must be a ticketed welder and have a minimum 5 years experience. Must be a Canadian Citizen. Not willing to train. Job Types: Full-time, Permanent.

Skilled Help

SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Culligan is looking for a Service Technician at our Prince George location. Superior customer service skills & plumbing experience preferred. Send resume to: recruiting@culliganwater.ca www.culligan.com

TERRITORY SALES REPRESENTATIVE

PUBLIC NOTICE FOREST OPERATIONS MAP REVIEW

PUBLIC NOTICE FOREST OPERATIONS MAP REVIEW

Carrier Lumber Ltd., invites the public to review its Forest Operations Maps (FOM ID: 1628) which provides George Timber Supply Area and administered from the Prince George Natural Resource District. The FOM(s) with the Forest and Range Practices Act and describe areas planned for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development years. The public may provide comments on the FOM(s) at any point during the review and comment period, ends August 9, 2024.

Culligan is looking for a Territory Sales Representative to promote our water filtration and softening systems in the Prince George Region. Send resume to: recruiting@culliganwater.ca www.culligan.com/

Carrier Lumber Ltd., invites the public to review its Forest Operations Maps (FOM ID: 1628) which provides development plans within the Prince George Timber Supply Area and administered from the Prince George Natural Resource District. The FOM(s) have been prepared in accordance with the Forest and Range Practices Act and describe areas planned for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years. The public may provide comments on the FOM(s) at any point during the review and comment period, which starts July 11, 2024 and ends August 9, 2024.

The FOM(s) is accessible for public review and comment submissions online at the following website Forest Operations Map (gov.bc.ca) or https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects#publicNotices

Alternatively, in-person review and comment of FOM(s) can be completed, by appointment to ensure a Carrier will be available, at the following locations during regular office hours (8:30 am to 4:00 pm):

Pay: $35.00 - $45.00/hr Accommodations provided Email resume to peacevalley@uniserve.com No phone calls please

Misc.

BC V2N 5S5

The FOM(s) is accessible for public review and comment submissions online at the following website address: Forest Operations Map (gov.bc.ca) or https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects#publicNotices

FOM(s) comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or by phone at (250) 563-9271 or

LEGAL NOTICE

Goodwood Forest Products Ltd. has prepared an amendment to the currently approved Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) for this licence. This amendment has been prepared in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. Woodlot 1726 includes crown land near Buckhorn Lake, and private District Lots described as the SW ¼ of DL 4433, NE ¼ of DL 3103, SW ¼ of DL 1986, and NE ¼ of DL 1954.

Inquiries or comments concerning this Amendment must be submitted in writing to Goodwood Forest Products Ltd at 2891 St. Anne Avenue, Prince George, BC V2N 4Y4 by August 6 2024.

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

For further information about this proposal, please contact Mark Clark, RPF at 250-612- 8014 or markclarkrpf@gmail.com.

Alternatively, in-person review and comment of FOM(s) can be completed, by appointment to ensure a Carrier Lumber woodlands staff member will be available, at the following locations during regular office hours (8:30 am to 4:00 pm): 4722 Continental Way, Prince George BC V2N 5S5

FOM(s) comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or by phone at (250) 563-9271 or by email at fom.pg@carrierlumber.ca

Furnished Apartments

4722 Continental Way, Prince George

Woodlot 1726

Woodlot Licence Plan Amendment

“Roses ____ Red”

Collectibles & Classic Cars

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

Hay Bales For Sale

5X5 round hay bales, $275 each- net wrapped, barn stored. 250-614-6667

By Sam Mazotta

Inner hand

____ sauce

Depict

NOTICE

I, Ravneet Kaur Hans D/O Surendra Singh Bhatia R/O H. No. 719-A, St. No. 2, Preet Nagar, Dugri, PO: Model Town, Ludhiana, DIST: Punjab 141002 changed my name to Ravneet Kaur.

BOAT / MOTOR FOR SALE

Cartop Aluminum 12ft boat $575 6HP Yamaha motor (2017 mint cond). low hours $1275 Call 250.960.8002

Opera show-stopper

Great wrath

Reign

Gentle animal

Dog’s nibble 17. In the center of

Fast-food request: 2 wds.

Hazes

Bathroom feature

Advance money

Solitary

NOTICE

Canine Flatulence

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My Labrador mix, “Barney,” has a gas problem -- a bad gas problem. I monitor his food intake and have even tried putting him on a special diet food, but he continues to emit noxious odors -- not just after eating, but throughout the day. Barney is about 9 years old and was adopted from the shelter. Any ideas on how to solve his problem? Thanks. -- Jesse B., Independence, Mo.

Exterior

Corrode 28. Bowler’s target 31. Salad-bar garnish

LAND ACT: NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CROWN LAND Take notice that Marty Larry Anderson, from Bear Lake, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Omineca Region, for a Licence of Occupation for Adventure Tourism, camping and dog training area purposes situated on Provincial Crown land located near Crystal Lake, BC. The Land File for this application is 7410327. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Susan Spears, Authorizations Specialist, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Omineca Region at 5th Floor 499 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1R5, or susan.spears@gov.bc.ca Comments will be received by Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Omineca Region up to 20 Aug2024. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Omineca Region may not be able to consider comments received after this date.

Please visit the website at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions. A hard copy MAP showing the location and extent of the application area may be acquired by calling the Authorizations Specialist named above at 250-5613479.

Double curve

____ in (confine)

Secluded valleys

Dashed

Start

Neck scarf

Bungles

Ignore

Slalom

Warning sign

Any ____ in a storm

Dark bread

Gush forth

DEAR JESSE: If you haven’t taken Barney to the vet lately, go ahead and do so. As a senior dog, Barney could be developing some problems, including digestive issues, that manifest in a stinky way.

Chair cushion

Exist

Take note of your dog’s overall physical state and any changes in his behavior or daily routine, and report them to the veterinarian. If his coat is rough or oily, if he seems agitated, if he is constantly panting or whining, if he drinks water constantly -- these can be signs of a problem. Check his stools when he eliminates; loose or runny indicates a problem -perhaps minor, perhaps not.

Let sleeping dogs ____

Drink with an olive

have a few numbers to get you started. you must not repeat the numbers the same line, column or 3x3 box.

Croon

line.

If Barney spends any unsupervised time outside, even just in the backyard, consider whether he has eaten anything he shouldn’t. For example, dogs love to root around and roll in smelly carcasses and other animals’ droppings, and sometimes eat them (yeah, it’s gross, but there it is). He could have picked up a parasite.

Feeling rotten

Yard-care tool

Han ____ in “Return of the Jedi”

Dogs also have a tendency to overeat when given the chance. Secure his dog food well and monitor his eating, just in case. Gorging on dog food or leftovers can cause a life-threatening condition.

box contains through 9 only once. is outlined with a darker

so that every row, and every 3x3

Barney may just need a diet that is designed for senior dogs, but let the veterinarian make recommendations based on his diagnosis.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.

Bright-colored bird 7. Slangy affirmative 8. Bathtub hole 9. Liquors 10. Got down 11. Gets hitched 19. Not repeated: hyph.

20. Bullfighter

(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

HOROSCOPES

Aries (March 21 – April 19) • Taurus (April 20 – May 20) • Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Libra (September 23 – October 22) Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) • Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

ARIES

This is an excellent week to consider taking a holiday or changing your environment. Learning a new language could be a good idea, especially if you plan to travel or relocate.

TAURUS

If intense emotions arise, you may feel like isolating yourself. However, your friends will be there to support you and cheer you up.

GEMINI

If you feel unwell, talk to your doctor immediately. Your intuitive nature will help you create a harmonious atmosphere around you. Your protective and nurturing attitude will help improve workplace morale.

CANCER

At work, you must handle urgent or confusing situations before the holidays. Be careful while swimming so you don’t catch an infection. If you’re single, now’s a great time to meet new people.

LEO

Spoil yourself by going to the movies or enjoying other forms of entertainment. You could find yourself in the limelight in one way or another. Use your creativity to showcase your talents.

VIRGO

You might have to travel frequently this week despite your love for staying home. Your family will ask for your help, and you won’t be able to refuse them.

LIBRA

If you have a public speaking event, you must thoroughly prepare. Improvisation won’t cut it. Use tact and diplomacy to resolve conflict.

SCORPIO

Be careful while interacting with certain people. Use tact and sensitivity to avoid misunderstandings. Be prepared for unexpected expenses.

SAGITTARIUS

You might need to take vitamins to maintain your energy levels. Your ideas may seem confusing at first, but staying focused will help bring them to life.

CAPRICORN

You tend to spend all your energy trying to do everything. Many people will need your help this week, and you’ll devote yourself to them even if it exhausts you.

AQUARIUS

You’ll be given important responsibilities. It’s crucial to clarify roles to avoid confusion, even at home. Be patient with those close to you as you manage these challenges.

PISCES

If you’re considering a career change, this is the perfect week to take a training course. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. It could help you land your dream job.

How

to

choose the right type of wood stain for your project

fresh coat of stain can breathe new life into wood furniture and flooring. Here’s an overview of the three most common types of stains.

• Oil-based stains are inexpensive, readily available and easy to use. They’re ideal for large projects because they dry slowly and create a uniform appearance. Oil-based stains penetrate deeply, which provides rich colour and a durable finish that often doesn’t require multiple coats.

• Water-based stains are mould and mildew resistant, making them suitable for moistureprone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. They dry very quickly, which makes them best suited for small projects. The biggest downside is that they

don’t penetrate wood as deeply as oil-based stains, which results in less saturated colours.

• Gel-based stains are often described as a cross between stain and paint. They require less preparation than other products as you don’t need to completely sand the wood’s surface to get a good result. In addition, since gel-based stains coat the surface of the wood instead of penetrating it, they’re especially suitable for woods like birch, cherry, maple and pine.

If you need help choosing the right stain for your project, speak to the sales staff at your local hardware store

GO FOR GOLD.

Do you need a standby generator for your home?

In the event of a blackout, a standby generator can power your home. If the electricity cuts out, this appliance can keep your home’s entire electrical system running.

A standby generator needs to be installed outside your home, much like an air conditioning unit, and runs on propane or natural gas. Among other things, this appliance will:

• Ensure your sump pump continues to work so your basement doesn’t flood

• Provide power to your fridge and freezer to prevent your food from spoiling

• Keep your heating system running to prevent your pipes from freezing in winter

Additionally, standby generators don’t release fumes, such as carbon monoxide, which is a common issue with portable generators. This makes them safer and better for your overall health.

Keep in mind, however, that a standby generator needs to be installed by a licensed professional to ensure it works when you need it most.

Looking for efficient air conditioning options?

Efficient air conditioning options are vital for reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Modern systems like ductless mini-split air conditioners offer superior energy efficiency compared to traditional central air systems. These units provide individualized cooling for specific areas, eliminating the energy waste associated with cooling unused spaces.

Heat pumps, particularly those with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER), are another excellent choice. They function as both heaters and coolers, making them versatile and costeffective year-round.

For those looking to retrofit existing systems, smart thermostats can optimize usage patterns, ensuring the AC runs only when necessary.

Additionally, investing in proper insulation and energy-efficient windows can significantly enhance an air conditioning system’s performance by minimizing the escape of cooled air. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and ensuring ducts are sealed, also plays a crucial role in maintaining efficiency. Adopting these strategies can lead to substantial energy savings and a more sustainable home.

pleting your home. However, before you can install your new television or exercise equipment, there are a few things you need to do, such as cover the floor. There are several materials to choose from, including ceramic, vinyl and engineered wood. Which should you go with? Here’s a comparison.

Which flooring should I choose for my basement?

ENGINEERED WOOD

CERAMIC

Finishing the basement is a crucial step in completing your home. However, before you can install your new television or exercise equipment, there are a few things you need to do, such as cover the floor. There are several materials to choose from, including ceramic, vinyl and engineered wood. Which should you go with? Here’s a comparison.

Although typically expensive, ceramic has its advantages. It’s moisture resistant, tolerant of temperature extremes and waterproof, making it ideal if you live in a flood zone. Ceramic is also very durable but can be a bit cold on the feet.

CERAMIC

VINYL

CERAMIC

Which flooring should I choose for my basement?

Finishing the basement is a crucial step in completing your home. However, before you can install your new television or exercise equipment, there are a few things you need to do, such as cover the floor. There are several materials to choose from, including ceramic, vinyl and engineered wood. Which should you go with? Here’s a comparison.

Although typically expensive, ceramic has its advantages. It’s moisture resistant, tolerant of temperature extremes and waterproof, making it ideal if you live in a flood zone. Ceramic is also very durable but can be a bit cold on the feet.

Flexible and easy to maintain, vinyl is highly moisture resistant. Additionally, you can easily

VINYL

Although typically expensive, ceramic has its advantages. It’s moisture resistant, tolerant of temperature extremes and waterproof, making it ideal if you live in a flood zone. Ceramic is also very durable but can be a bit cold on the feet.

Flexible and easy to maintain, vinyl is highly moisture resistant. Additionally, you can easily

VINYL

Are you looking to change up your home decor? Chrome, a popular choice from several years ago for its futuristic allure, is again making its way into homes. However, this time, it’s a touch more subtle. One of the reasons for chrome’s renewed popularity is the brightness it brings to certain rooms when incorporated into light fixtures and chair and table legs. Here’s a look at a trend that’s as brilliant as it is versatile.

Flexible and easy to maintain, vinyl is highly moisture resistant. Additionally, you can easily

install it yourself. Are you on a tight budget? Vinyl is an affordable option. The only drawback is that it wears out more quickly than other flooring options.

install it yourself. Are you on a tight budget? Vinyl is an affordable option. The only drawback is that it wears out more quickly than other flooring options.

Made of several layers of plywood with natural wood on top, engineered wood is less likely to warp than hardwood floors, which aren’t recommended for basements. Although often the most expensive solution, engineered wood offers a warm and distinguished finish.

ENGINEERED WOOD

ENGINEERED WOOD

Made of several layers of plywood with natural wood on top, engineered wood is less likely to warp than hardwood floors, which aren’t recommended for basements. Although often the most expensive solution, engineered wood offers a warm and distinguished finish.

Made of several layers of plywood with natural wood on top, engineered wood is less likely to warp than hardwood floors, which aren’t recommended for basements. Although often the most expensive solution, engineered wood offers a warm and distinguished finish.

Other materials are gaining popularity in basements. For example, cork provides excellent soundproofing, while laminate is available in shades. Are you torn between several options? Consult a flooring professional. They’ll help you find the right flooring for your style and budget.

Other materials are gaining popularity in basements. For example, cork provides excellent soundproofing, while laminate is available in various shades. Are you torn between several options? Consult a flooring professional. They’ll help you find the right flooring for your style and budget.

Add chrome to your decor!

MAXIMIZES LIGHT

Other materials are gaining popularity in basements. For example, cork provides excellent soundproofing, while laminate is available in various shades. Are you torn between several options? Consult a flooring professional. They’ll help you find the right flooring for your style and budget.

Add chrome to your decor!

Do some areas of your home lack light? If so, consider chairs with chrome legs or a lamp with a chrome base. Chrome reflects light, helping dark or isolated rooms come alive.

CREATES A CONTRASTING EFFECT

Are you looking to change up your home decor? Chrome, a popular choice from several years ago for its futuristic allure, is again making its way into homes. However, this time, it’s a touch more subtle. One of the reasons for chrome’s renewed popularity is the brightness it brings to certain rooms when incorporated into light fixtures and chair and table legs. Here’s a look at a trend that’s as brilliant as it is versatile.

Add chrome to your decor!

IT PROVIDES A SLEEK LOOK

MAXIMIZES LIGHT

MAXIMIZES LIGHT

CREATES A CONTRASTING EFFECT

Are you looking to change up your home decor? Chrome, a popular choice from several years ago for its futuristic allure, is again making its way into homes. However, this time, it’s a touch more subtle. One of the reasons for chrome’s renewed popularity is the brightness it brings to certain rooms when incorporated into light fixtures and chair and table legs. Here’s a look at a trend that’s as brilliant as it is versatile.

A chrome finish provides a striking contrast when paired with a wide range of materials and textures in your home. For example, placing a chrome vase on a dark wood table or hanging a chrome light above a stoneware kitchen island can instantly elevate your living space.

A chrome finish provides a striking contrast when paired with a wide range of materials and textures in your home.

CREATES A CONTRASTING EFFECT

Do some areas of your home lack light? If so, consider chairs with chrome legs or a lamp with a chrome base. Chrome reflects light, helping dark or isolated rooms come alive.

IT PROVIDES A SLEEK LOOK

Do some areas of your home lack light? If so, consider chairs with chrome legs or a lamp with a chrome base. Chrome reflects light, helping dark or isolated rooms come alive.

Chrome is an excellent choice for creating a sleek look in your bathroom. It’s neutral and easy to clean, making it ideal for items like shelving, towel bars, mirror frames and small baskets. These items add style to your bathroom and help keep it neat and organized.

IT PROVIDES A SLEEK LOOK

Do you want to add a few shiny accents to your space? Are you looking to redefine your interior design completely? Try chrome for a long­lasting and elegant look!

Chrome is an excellent choice for creating a sleek look in your bathroom. It’s neutral and easy to clean, making it ideal for items like shelving, towel bars, mirror frames and small baskets. These

Chrome is an excellent choice for creating a sleek look in your bathroom. It’s neutral and easy to clean, making it ideal for items like shelving, towel bars, mirror frames and small baskets. These items add style to your bathroom and help keep it neat and organized.

Do you want to add a few shiny accents

define your interior design completely?

Buying guide: dishwashers GET READY TO PUT AWAY YOUR SPONGES!

Have you recently renovated or revamped your kitchen? Are you finally starting the search for the ideal dishwasher? Use this short guide to help you make the best choice.

• A standard, 12-place setting model is ideal for a family of two adults and two children.

Buying guide: dishwashers GET READY TO PUT AWAY

DIMENSIONS

Four things to consider when buying a hot tub

• A 14-place setting model is recommended if you use a lot of dishes or frequently host guests.

YOUR SPONGES!

4 things to consider when buying a hot tub

Hot tubs are perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a busy day. They can also help soothe sore muscles and joints. If you want to purchase a hot tub for your backyard, here are four things to think about.

1.

Buying guide: dishwashers GET READY TO PUT AWAY YOUR SPONGES!

Have you recently renovated or re vamped your kitchen? Are you finally starting the search for the ideal dishwasher? Use this short guide to help you make the best choice.

Have you recently renovated or revamped your kitchen? Are you finally starting the search for the ideal dishwasher? Use this short guide to help you make the best choice.

DIMENSIONS

Before you go shopping, remember to measure the space available. Built dishwashers, which are easy to find, come in various sizes depending on the opening under your counter. Stand alone models are enclosed on all sides and can be installed virtually anywhere.

CLEANING CAPACITY

DIMENSIONS

INSULATION

Before you go shopping, remember to measure the space available. Built dishwashers, which are easy to find, come in various sizes depending on the opening under your counter. Stand alone models are enclosed on all sides and can be installed virtually anywhere.

Look for a hot tub with fullfoam or multi­density foam insulation. The higher quality the insulation, the more efficiently your hot tub will be at heating and keeping the water hot. This is especially important if you plan on using your hot tub in the winter.

2.

WASH CYCLES

• A standard, 12-place setting modis ideal for a family of two adults is recommended if you use a lot of dishes or

While less expensive models typically include standard cleaning options, pricier dishwashers offer an array of cycles ranging from quick and delicate to deep clean and beyond. However, having fewer options makes the ap­

The capacity of your appliance is mea sured in place settings, which represent number of items required for one person’s meal. Here are the different capacities:

Before you go shopping, remember to measure the space available. Built dishwashers, which are easy to find, come in various sizes depending on the opening under your counter. Stand alone models are enclosed on all sides and can be installed virtually anywhere.

CLEANING CAPACITY

CLEANING CAPACITY

• A narrow, eight to 10-place setting model is recommended for a single person or a couple without children.

SEATS

The capacity of your appliance is measured in place settings, which represent the number of items required for one person’s meal. Here are the different capacities:

The capacity of your appliance is measured in place settings, which represent the number of items required for one person’s meal. Here are the different capacities:

To determine the right number of seats for your hot tub, think about how many people will regularly use it, as well as how often you plan to invite friends over for a soak. Just keep in mind that the more seats the hot tub has, the more expensive it will be.

3. JETS

• A narrow, eight to 10-place setting model is recommended for a single person or a couple without children.

Ideally, you want a hot tub with powerful jets that mix the correct amount of water and air. You may also want to think about the size of the jets. For example, jets with small openings generally feel more powerful, however, they target less surface area than those with large openings. Keep in mind,

While less expensive models typically include standard cleaning options, pricier dishwashers offer an array of cycles ranging from quick and delicate to deep clean and beyond. However, having fewer options makes the ap­

When buying a dishwasher, remember that it’s a machine that must stand up to repeated use. Take all the time you need to assess your dishwashing Talk to local retailers for per­

pliance easier to operate.

you don’t want a tub that’s brimming with jets, as this could lead to a decrease in water pressure.

4.

When buying a dishwasher, remember that it’s a machine that must stand up to repeated use. Take all the time you need to assess your dishwashing habits. Talk to local retailers for personalized advice.

PUMPS

• A narrow, eight to 10-place setting model is recommended for a single person or a couple without children.

Look for a hot tub that uses several highpressure pumps to power the jets. However, keep in mind that more horsepower and more pumps aren’t always best as they’ll consume enormous amounts of energy. The ideal hot tub will have a good jet to horsepower ratio for ideal efficiency and jet strength.

When buying a dishwasher, remember that it’s a machine that must stand up to repeated use. Take all the time you need to assess your dishwashing habits. Talk to local retailers for personalized advice.

Lastly, although your hot tub doesn’t need all the bells and whistles, you can ask your dealer about additional options such as Bluetooth audio, interior and exterior LED lights and various water features. These little extras might just seal the deal.

Japandi:

sured in

Homes & Living

which represent the number of items required for one person’s meal. Here are the different capacities:

Buying guide: Dishwashers

Buying guide: dishwashers GET

READY TO PUT AWAY YOUR SPONGES!

A standard, 12-place setting modis ideal for a family of two adults

A 14-place setting model is recommended if you use a lot of dishes or

While less expensive models typically include standard cleaning options, pricier dishwashers offer an array of cycles ranging from quick and delicate to deep clean and beyond. However, having fewer options makes the appliance easier to operate.

When buying a dishwasher, remember that it’s a machine that must stand up to repeated use. Take all the time you need to assess your dishwashing habits. Talk to local retailers for per­

When buying a

that it’s a machine that must stand up to repeated use. Take all the time you need to assess your dishwashing habits. Talk to local retailers for personalized advice.

• A narrow, eight to 10-place setting model is recommended for a single person or a couple without children.