Prince George Citizen October 31, 2024

Top cop says PG crime keeping local RCMP busy

The majority of criminal cases involve people who are already known to police, new superintendent explains

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

It didn’t take long after being named the city’s top cop for Darin Rappel to make his mark as a crimefighter.

Just one week after he was introduced as the successor to Shaun Wright as superintendent of the Prince George RCMP came the announcement of the city’s biggest-ever illicit drug bust.

A break and enter report at a house in the 4400 block of Fifth Avenue led to the seizure of nearly 40 kilograms of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis, a large quantity of counterfeit cigarettes and $500,000 in cash, all linked to organized crime.

One tip from a concerned citizen brought an immediate police response that made history.

Rappel echoed Wright’s observation that the influence of gangs is becoming more obvious in Prince George, and other BC cities are experiencing that as well.

“It was once considered a Lower Mainland issue and now it’s recognized as a provincial issue,” said Rappel. “Frankly, where there’s money to be made, gang activity will follow. Drugs and that kind of activity, we’ve seen a steady increase.

“There’s more of a market for hard drugs and gangs will go where there’s the most profit. Illegal cigarettes have always been an issue,” he said. “It’s very profitable and I think that’s what drives it.

“One of the nicest things about Prince George, with 80,000 people, we will notice your activity at some point in time because it’s a commodity-based product and you have to sell your product. In order to do that you have to mix and mingle with the community, so you will attract attention, and you will find good citizens in the community that will report that to us and give us that starting point to leap off into an investigation.

“Because we’re not that huge, somebody always seems to notice something that’s out of sorts and will make a

report to us and we can follow up and determine if there’s activity or not. The vast majority of police work, we rely on the community to at least give us a starting point.”

Before he joined up as an RCMP officer 23 years ago, Rappel was a high school teacher from 1996-2000 in Williams Lake.

That was also where he started his RCMP career in 2001 after graduating depot training in Regina. Now he’s in charge of a force of 160 officers as commanding officer of the Prince George RCMP detachment.

Rappel’s dad and grandfather were both police officers, as is his brother, and it was always in the back of his mind that he would keep up the family tradition.

Born in Penticton and raised on the family cattle/grain farm near Spirit

River, Alta., Rappel served seven years as the inspector of the plainclothes division in Prince George before he was named superintendent.

Based downtown on Victoria Street and at North District headquarters on the western edge of the bowl on Fifth Avenue, this is the largest police force in the northern half of the province covering a territory that’s nearly as big as France.

“I like the North, started in Williams Lake and made my way back to the North and I was happy to try for the job,” Rappel said.

“The community is different. I often hear people in city council and others in the community talk about how northern folks are a little bit different, a little unique, and I think that is the case and it requires unique solutions for policing, and that has to do with the vast area we have,” he said.

“We’re a hub city for all manner of reasons and that also includes being a hub for some criminal activity as well, which requires different ideas and different approaches to policing. We carry a very heavy file load, comparatively speaking, to other detachments of a similar size. There’s just more crime. The vast majority of crime we investigate, especially violent crime, is by known offenders, and typically the perpetrator and victim know each other.”

Prior to his move with his family to Prince George, Rappel worked in Kamloops for the RCMP’s crime, property crime and professional responsibility units.

Rappel said the organization is doing “way better” at recruiting new officers across Canada and Prince George is seeing the effects of that increased interest in policing as a career choice.

“In my experience it looks like we’re pulling (new recruits) from large centres and I’d like to see more rural and smaller-centre applicants,” said Rappel. “I think urban folks growing up in a big city, that’s home to them, and of course they’re signing on the dotted line with the RCMP and are willing to go anywhere, but they might have a calling to go back to a big urban centre.

“So if we can recruit more in places like this, and have people come back to Prince George and the North, it’s a unique area and a unique type of policing and it would be fantastic to have local people more interested in joining the force.”

Part of Rappel’s job is meeting regularly with community partners to discuss crime trends. He also sits on the mayor’s community public safety committee that was an offshoot of the town hall discussion at the Civic Centre in April that stemmed from homelessness, poverty, crime and drug use, particularly in the downtown core.

“We have to look at all the ideas because some of the conventional techniques we’ve been doing for years just don’t seem to be working as well as they once did,” said Rappel.

Body-worn cameras are being implemented Canada-wide in the RCMP and Prince George officers will have them sometime this fall. While that will help police gather evidence, it also increases the workload of sifting through the footage and documenting the relevant video clips for each case.

“Detachments throughout the province are preparing for that - we will be one of the pilot areas, one of the early phases - all media information about that and the public engagement piece that we will take part of has yet to be delivered to us but that’s coming,” said Rappel.

“It’s an objective eyewitness, that’s what a camera is. Any video, whether it’s off a doorbell cam or off a police officer’s chest or off a cell phone that’s watching an event, still requires a witness to interpret what it is. You still need the analysis, so in lot of regards it can’t necessarily stand alone, but it’s a fantastic piece of evidence. As we move forward the province will come out with more engagement and guidelines on how that works.

“If there’s a new way of doing policing that will make us more efficient and help us increase our success in regards to public safety, I want to be a part of that.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY TED CLARKE

Darin Rappel took on the duties as Prince George RCMP superintendent on Aug. 16.

Steve Sintich, a former city councillor and school board trustee stands with the threefoot-tall early Mr. PG model he has had for years at the intersection of Highway 97 and Boundary Road. That’s where he thinks the full-sized Mr. PG should be moved to greet people as they come into town.

Steve Sintich has a different site in mind for Mr. PG’s future home

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

An early prototype of Mr. PG has come out of hiding thanks to Steve Sintich.

The cheeky grin, the protruding ears, the traditional stance of one foot on a stump make for a very familiar image.

Sintich, a loyal Prince George community member, is his biggest fan and said this city wouldn’t be what it is today without Mr. PG.

Recent proof of his point came as Mr. PG was named the Greatest Canadian Landmark in an inaugural contest held by Municipal World this month.

He took top spot out of 76 landmarks from across the country.

Sintich believes the prototype he has of Mr. PG was created in the late 1950s or early ‘60s but has few details about its origin.

He discovered the grinning icon, which stands about a metre tall, at the School District 57 board office in 1976 when he was served as a trustee.

“I guess at the time somebody didn’t think he was very important or anything so I said I’d take him,” Sintich said. “And he’s been in my possession ever since then.”

Sintich sat on the Chamber of Commerce board and helped with the promotion of Mr. PG throughout the years, including as a member of city council beginning in 1980.

Sintich, now 85, remains steadfast in his devotion to Mr. PG.

“They wanted to get rid of him,” Sintich recalled with a disbelieving shake of his head.

“I was born and raised in Prince George and have always been loyal. I am really upset they are considering moving Mr. PG away from the highway.”

City council considered a staff recommendation that the modern eight-metre Mr. PG be moved to the visitors’ centre at Canada Games Plaza before sending the plan back to staff for more study.

Sintich said about 50 years ago the city promised to put in a southern bypass where Boundary Road is now located and if the city decides to move Mr. PG from the junction of Highway 16 and 97, he should at least be moved up there and not to the downtown core.

“We’ve got to get out of the bowl area,” Sintich said.

“Growth to Prince George will come when we bring industry into the area because that’s where the employment growth will come from – and industry can be anything and everything. We are at the crossroads to everything in the province.”

Sintich said he is not pleased that the signs to welcome people into the city don’t have Mr. PG on them.

“It’s very simple either Mr. PG leads the way to make Prince George grow or they might as well junk him,” Sintich said. “The welcome signs to Prince George are a monument to a dead city.”

For now Sintich said he will keep his prototype of Mr. PG safe as his fate is yet to be determined.

BC Timber Sales Prince George

INVITATION TO COMMENT –FOREST OPERATIONS MAP

The public is invited to review and comment on BC Timber Sales Prince George (BCTS TPG) Forest Operations Map, showing proposed road construction and cut block development under Forest Stewardship Plan #24 within Forest Development Units in the Prince George and Mackenzie Forest Districts. The map will be valid for the operating period from November 30, 2024 – November 30, 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 BCTS TPG office, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at: BC Timber Sales Prince George 2000 Ospika Blvd S Prince George, B.C., V2N 4W5 Tel: 205 614-7400

Comments will be accepted from October 31 – November 29, 2024

Comments may be submitted online at fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects, emailed to tpg.ref@gov.bc.ca, delivered in-person to the address above during business hours, or mailed to the address above to the attention of Jonathan Taylor.

If you have questions or require assistance, please contact: Jonathan Taylor, Planning Officer, by phone: 250 649-4366, or email: tpg.ref@gov.bc.ca

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

22-year-old buys Prince George’s cheapest house

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Solid as a rock, the cutie-pie home on Cuddie Crescent, deemed the cheapest house in Prince George this summer with a list price of $179,900, was sold this month to a 22-year-old longtime resident.

Cole Brenton is the proud owner and even though it’s only 400 square feet, it’s not a tiny house to him - it’s his first home.

So what is a 22-year-old doing buying a house in today’s crazy real estate market?

“I always had my eye on the housing market,” Brenton said. “It was something I always wanted to do but it’s very tough to be able to afford anything in this housing market. It was actually my mom that had sent me the article about the house and initially it didn’t appeal to me. Then I talked to some friends and I thought about it more and I thought it’s the cheapest free-standing house in Prince George and that’s gotta be worth something.”

Brenton said he had considered buying a condo around that same price but knows there’s no land attached and didn’t see the value in that. Then there are strata fees to pay on a monthly basis and that wasn’t very appealing to him, he added.

“Things moved pretty quickly once I saw the listing,” Brenton said.

“I saw the listing on Friday. I called the realtor on Saturday, I looked at it on Sunday and put my offer in on Monday and my closing date was two weeks later.”

The appeal was simply about having something that was his, Brenton said.

“And it had to be a house,” Brenton said. “You can buy a trailer in a trailer park, or a condo in an older building but you just don’t see houses for that same price. Going into it I was worried and my mom told me that there’s probably a reason that it’s so cheap and to be prepared to be disappointed.”

So Brenton went to the viewing with some hope but knew he had to be

realistic.

“So I went over there and it was perfect for me because it’s 400 square feet and I’m only one person – I don’t have a girlfriend currently and no roommates so this is the opportunity for me to have a space that’s my own that I can change and develop as I see fit. I took possession on Oct. 9 and I’ve already starting my renovations.”

He’s already torn up the floor. Vinyl planking will go in and all the walls will get a fresh coat of white paint.

“I know that’s boring but I feel like my design style falls more into letting my art decorate the space rather than the wall colour,” Brenton said.

The inspection came back pretty clean, Brenton added, with only a few minor issues on the list but nothing that sent off alarm bells.

Brenton works at a small independent car dealership and knows steady employment was key to getting his mortgage approval.

live in a dump,” he said. He found a recent shopping trip rather serendipitous.

“I was at Costco and I bought a speaker - like, a really good speaker - knowing I can’t use it right now because it’s too loud, and I thought it would be about two years before I could even take it out of the box and here I am two months later with a house and so now that speaker is coming out of that box.”

Some of the challenges of owning a home are basic logistics.

“It’s been a challenge because it’s such a small space,” Brenton said. “So I’ve had to order furniture and I’ve had to go in and measure every single piece. It’s not like I can say ‘oh, I like this I should get it’, it’s more ‘oh, I like this, will it fit.”

Brenton wanted to thank his mom, Andrea, for her encouragement during the process of first-time home ownership. His dad, Mike, also played a big role in helping Brenton buy his first home, making sure to ask all the important questions so all his bases were covered.

“Since the business is so small I have a pretty diverse role, so I started in marketing, then sales and now finance,” Brenton said.

“I’ve worked there for three years now. Because it’s really small, we’re really close so I enjoy getting up and going to work and I wouldn’t have the opportunity to get a house this young if I didn’t have this job.”

And in the future?

“I think I’m using this house as a stepping stone,” Brenton said. “It’s not the kind of house that you live in forever and raise a family. It is something I take pride in and I’m renovating it to be the space where I want to live. In the next few years whether I sell it or rent it out I want to just keep climbing the ladder of real estate until I’ve got the house that I want to be in for the long run.”

Brenton knew he always wanted a house.

“I didn’t want to live in an apartment or a trailer and definitely didn’t want to

And there’s someone else that made an impact, too.

“I would feel bad if I didn’t mention my boss-slash-manager-slash-co-worker-slash-friend George,” Brenton said. “He was the main person who talked me into buying this house and told me the benefits of it. He’s the one that came with me to look at the house with the realtor, he’s the one who helped me with all the mortgage stuff, house insurance and everything and now he’s the one helping me with all the renos so I don’t think it woulda happened without him either. George is great. I couldn’t have done it without him.”

Brenton knows he’s pretty young to own a house and understands the responsibilities that come with it.

“It’s not so common any more for someone as young as me to buy a house,” Brenton acknowledged. “I hope young people will be inspired when they hear I bought a house. I took that leap and so can you.”

COLE BRENTON PHOTO

Cole Brenton, 22, is the proud new owner of a Cuddie Crescent home, deemed the cheapest house in Prince George this summer.

New staff position, technical committee among bear-safe recommendations going to city council

CITIZEN STAFF

City council is set to review a comprehensive new bear management plan developed by the Advisory Committee on Bear Awareness.

Finalized at its Oct. 2 meeting, the report, which offers ways to reduce human-wildlife conflicts in and around Prince George, will go to council Nov. 4.

The committee has proposed the re-establishment of a dedicated city staff position focused on sustainable waste management, aimed at achieving Provincial Bear Smart Status. This initiative would include a commitment to annual financial support for the position through the 2025 to 2030 operational financial plan.

As well, the committee recommends the creation of a Bear Aware technical committee. This group would include city staff and representatives from the Northern Bear Awareness Society, the University of Northern British Columbia and the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and the Conservation Officer Service.

To address bear encounters, the committee suggests implementing a twoyear pilot project featuring automated bear-resistant solid waste bins in areas with high bear activity, with extensive testing of different brands.

Following the pilot, a report would be presented to council evaluating the results and potential city-wide implementation, with a focus on incentives for residents and provisions for secure garbage storage.

The report also urges the gradual introduction of bear-resistant receptacles in public spaces, including parks and bus stops.

The committee highlighted the importance of community engagement through educational programs aimed at reducing bear attractants, such as public education initiatives and fruit gleaning programs.

This would be complemented by enforcement of existing property maintenance bylaws.

Berries, fruit trees and garbage bins are

Recommendations include amending zoning bylaws to allow for electric fencing around wildlife attractants and adopting a new bylaw specifically targeting wildlife attractants and solid waste management. This proposed bylaw would feature a tiered fine system for violations and establish clear definitions for wildlife attractants, as well as maintenance requirements for fruit-bearing plants.

Another recommendation calls for educational materials regarding humanbear interactions be included with city utility bills and shared through social media and other means.

The Advisory Committee on Bear Awareness, which is tasked with advising council and city staff on measures to increase bear-proofing, is made up of up to seven members, with one member each appointed by BC Conservation, the Northern Bear Awareness Society and the University of Northern British Columbia, and four members appointed by council.

Councillors will be asked to vote on approving the committee’s recommendations Monday.

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JOYCE MURRAY PHOTO

the prime attractants for bears wandering into Prince George neighbourhoods.

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street A Musical Thriller

Local schoolchildren get to be PG fire chiefs for a day

The four winners were among 900 local kids who entered the contest, with their names chosen in a live draw

CITIZEN STAFF

Four local kids had the chance to see what it’s like to be firefighters Saturday.

Prince George Fire Rescue marked Fire Prevention Week with its annual Fire Chief for a Day event on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Fire Hall 1 on Massey Drive.

The initiative aimed to raise fire safety awareness and inspire young community members to become safety advocates, states a city press release.

Four elementary school students were selected as honorary fire chiefs through a contest, with entries from local schools.

The winners, chosen in a live draw on Oct. 10, were Addison Parker from Hart Highlands, Jonah Tajcnar from Polaris, Smith Cleverley from Vanway and Julia Beckett from École College Heights.

The students spent the day learning about firefighting alongside Chief Cliff Warner, chief fire prevention officer Steve Feeney, fire safety educator Andrew Zielinski, firefighter Sydney Toninato and the fire crews on duty.

Activities included a tour of the fire hall, inspecting fire trucks, and even spraying water from a fire hose under firefighter supervision.

Each child received a custom plaque and nameplate and issued playful “Junior Chief’s Orders” to the crew, which included push-ups and a song performance by a firefighter.

Following the day’s festivities, the young chiefs enjoyed a special fire truck ride to the Victoria Street McDonald’s, where they were treated to lunch in a decorated section of the restaurant, complete with treat bags and complimentary meals for their families.

This year’s event saw a remarkable turnout, the city reports, with more

Four local children, from left, Julia Beckett, Smith Cleverley, Addison Parker and Jonah Tajcnar

fire chiefs for a day. They and their families spent Saturday, Oct. 26 at Fire Hall 1.

teaches Julia Beckett how to use a hose, one of the many activities the kids were

than 900 contest entries from 31 elementary schools in the city.

The theme for Fire Prevention Week, which ran from Oct. 6-12, was “Smoke Alarms – Make Them Work for You!” The fire department collaborated with local schools to distribute educational materials to students from kindergarten to Grade 3, including fire safety tips and a fire escape plan template.

“Our aim is to teach kids that fire prevention starts at home and that they can play a part in keeping their families safe,” said Zielinski. “We look forward to growing this event for even greater impact in the future.”

firefighter

CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PHOTO

won a contest to be junior

Below,

Nicholas Young

able to take part in.

Steep learning curve for newly elected MLAs: Yu

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Prince George Mayor Simon Yu says the three newly elected area MLAs are in for a crash course in how the political game works.

Rosalyn Bird in Prince George-Valemount, Sheldon Clare in Prince GeorgeNorth Cariboo and Kiel Giddens in Prince George-Mackenzie – will be heading to Victoria as first-time elected representatives.

“Being a party coming from two per cent of the popular vote in the last election ... they will need a lot of advice and help from other levels of government, whether it’s federal or the municipalities, to really understand the problems and the cause of them,” said Yu in an interview after the election but before recounts confirmed an NDP majority. The three local MLAs will be part of the Official Opposition.

“Hopefully they can pivot to solutions and are able to solve the problems on the ground level. We need co-operation and we need to work together, all three levels of government, and I think they will. If the people listen to everybody involved in politics, to the media, they’ll be fine. Listening is a skill to be learned.”

Yu attended the election night victory party with Bird and Giddens and their supporters and he said he wasn’t at all shocked to see the overwhelming Conservative sweep of the three local ridings.

“As a candidate who once upon a time ran for the federal Liberals (Yu finished second to Dick Harris in the race for Cariboo-Prince George in 2006) I know how conservative this area is, so I’m not surprised that all three Conservative candidates won,” said Yu.

Yu is familiar with all three newly minted MLAs and predicts they will excel at their new jobs.

“Kiel is an exceptional person, I know him and his wife for so many years. He grew up here and has a lot of government experience so sending him

to Victoria is a good thing for Prince George,” said Yu.

“I taught with Sheldon at CNC for many years, he’s a solid person.”

Yu said he got to know Bird when she became a client of his when he was working full-time as a self-employed structural engineer.

“I’ve known Rosalyn for seven or eight years – she’s going to be a straight shooter and tell it the way it is,” Yu said. “She won’t beat around the bush. It might take her some time to get to know the workings of the government but I think her heart is always going to be with the people.

“At the same time, I know all the other candidates, from NDP, from independent, they ran in these three ridings, they’re all good people. Anybody that put their name forward in the exercise to form our democracy to go to the government to do things for the people, there’s no losers, they’re all winners.”

With the exception of North CoastHaida Gwaii, which voted NDP, all other ridings in the northern half of the province elected Conservative candidates. Yu says that’s partly a reflection of the surging federal Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre and the growing dissatisfaction of Canadians with current governments.

“This is always a Conservative area and the economy always plays a super-important role in the election,” said Yu. “After the pandemic, people feel that inflation and their lifestyle is changing, not for the better economically. So people want to see if there’s another way to get things done, perhaps to have a better future for their children.

“Forestry was, is and always will be important for us and hopefully in days and months ahead, the government will see how important it is to tailor forest policies to the local conditions, not just across the board. Hopefully they will see what works for Northern BC may be different from Vancouver Island and they will make some policy changes and hopefully everybody will win again.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY TED CLARKE

Newly elected Conservative MLAs Rosalyn Bird and Kiel Giddens speak to their supporters after the results of the Oct. 19 provincial election were announced at Conservative headquarters in Prince George. Prince George Mayor Simon Yu was among the crowd that gathered for the victory party.

OPINION OPINION

Canfor closures are a ‘shock’ that we all saw coming

OPINION Forget NIMBY and support the people trying to help

Bear committee’s job suggestion a wise move for PG

Falcon’s surrender cost us an excellent representative

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

community action, ensuring that regulations are understood, accepted, and effectively implemented.

The closure of Canfor sawmills in Vanderhoof and Fort St. John and the loss of 500 jobs in those communities is terrible news, but not surprising news.

With council set to review the Advisory Committee on Bear Awareness’s comprehensive new bear management plan, it’s a good time to suggest that sustainable waste management can not only enhance bear-human relations but also foster broader environmental and community benefits.

For the first election in decades, you won’t be seeing Shirley Bond signs around town.

The veteran MLA announced last week that she was done with provincial politics after she, and the rest of us, were blindsided by her party leader’s decision to shut down the BC United campaign and endorse the fast-rising BC Conservatives.

We’ve known for years that BC’s forest industry is in serious trouble. The most recently announced U.S. tariffs aren’t helping.

There are two supportive housing buildings on Queensway between Patricia Boulevard and 17th Avenue. They’re home to dozens of people with different needs, and operated by agencies that work to help people live on their own in safety and health. You’ve probably never realized that these places are anything other than typical Prince George apartment buildings.

The committee’s proposal includes a call for the city to hire a dedicated employee focused on sustainable waste management. This is a timely and essential move, one that could significantly improve our city’s ecological footprint and community engagement.

on ways to prevent bear-human interactions.

didn’t agree with every one of her positions, but she was a good representative for PG. She worked hard and got stuff done.”

The establishment of a Bear Aware technical committee, including stakeholders such as the Northern Bear Awareness Society and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, further emphasizes the collaborative spirit needed for successful wildlife management.

In his case, it’s Mayor Simon Yu. Convincing a city council to change its mind – particularly with the NIMBY factor at play – isn’t easy. But there are ways to make it work, and it’s good to see that Edwards has the support of the mayor. Imagine what it must take to welcome strangers into your home, strangers who are dealing with rock-bottom addiction, for no reason other than to help them. No pay. No recognition.

Just compassion.

This paper went to press just before Bond’s formal press conference Tuesday afternoon, so we can’t tell you what happened there. But she did send out a statement last week in which she outlined her decision.

That’s how supportive housing works in Prince George. As we’ve talked about before, there are many such homes throughout the city, including in College Heights, operated by people involved with the many social service agencies and non-profit organizations doing good work here.

These people are referring to the circumstances of Bond’s departure from the race. She was as surprised by BC United Leader Kevin Falcon’s backroom deal with the Conservatives as voters were, and she made it clear right away that she had no plan to jump aboard the John Rustad ship.

board concepts, the industry is run by big logging corporations, and they have a bottom line to meet. That’s the way business works. NDP governments, however, hesitate to support large corporations on ideological grounds. We’ve seen struggling sectors come back to life after being bailed out by government. The Ontario automotive industry comes immediately to mind. Controversial? At the time, yes. Successful? Also yes. People are working steady, high-paying jobs again.

implications, not just for wildlife, but by building a sense of community pride and environmental awareness among residents.

“The decision made by BC United party leader Kevin Falcon to suspend our party’s election campaign came as a complete surprise to me and I have spent the past 24 hours with my family thinking about what my next steps should be,” she said in a statement. “Together, we have decided that I will be withdrawing my name as a candidate in the upcoming provincial election.”

For years, under first the BC Liberals and then the NDP, the approach has been to kick the can down the road when it comes to addressing the ground-level challenges facing the forestry industry. Companies keep harvesting, milling and shipping until the ledger turns red (or looks like it might), and then the saws are unplugged, the mills close and people lose their jobs. It didn’t have to be this way. Warning signs have been clear since the pine beetle attacked BC forests 20 years ago. While it was a crisis, it led to a major logging boom as salvage operations began. Crews started harvesting the trees the beetles had killed, an operation that saw huge growth in the industry and money being made across the board. Things looked OK.

One of those people is Rick Edwards, who founded Integrity Recovery to help addicts get their lives back on track. Integrity operates on a full sobriety model, meaning that unlike other residential facilities for people with addictions, the clients living in Integrity homes cannot use substances at all. They pay rent, and many of them work, some through the DART groundskeeping service.

Whether you ever voted for her or not, you were fortunate to have Bond as your MLA for so long.

At the heart of the committee’s recommendations is the recognition that managing our waste effectively is integral to minimizing human-wildlife conflicts. Bears, like many other wildlife species, are drawn into urban areas primarily by the availability of food. Improper waste disposal is one of the leading attractants. By appointing a dedicated city staff member to oversee sustainable waste management, Prince George would take a proactive approach to addressing these conflicts, ultimately moving towards achieving provincial Bear Smart status.

The proposed two-year pilot project

featuring automated bear-resistant solid waste bins in areas that experience high bear activity is a another practical step that should be embraced. If successful, this initiative could pave the way for city-wide implementation, leading to fewer bear encounters and safer communities.

The Moccasin Flats encampment on Lower Patricia Boulevard is seen from the Millar Addition in this file photo. People who are working to help others recover from addiction and homelessness deserve council support, we suggest today.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The closure of two Canfor mills is yet another sign that the government has underestimated the crisis facing the BC forestry industry.

Prince George Valemount MLA Shirley Bond poses for a picture taken through the heart of the Chuck Chin Memorial Bench during its unveiling this summer.

However, the success of such initiatives hinges on effective management and community buy-in — both of which a dedicated employee could facilitate through outreach and education.

While many of these homes operate under the radar, once in a while one of them is noticed, and the NIMBY kicks in. That’s what happened here. Neighbours found out what the home was and complained.

Here again, a dedicated city employee could serve as a vital liaison, fostering communication and ensuring that the wisdom and insights of all community members are considered. This collaborative effort not only enhances the effectiveness of the plan but also builds trust and solidarity within our diverse community.

We continue to wonder why Edwards’s neighbours are so upset that he has people in recovery living in a College Heights home when there are real dangers in our community. They’ve called police and used social media to complain about his plan to formalize the arrangement.

And he’s doing what we recommend everyone does when trying to get something through city hall.

Additionally, the recommendations to amend zoning bylaws to allow for electric fencing and to adopt a new bylaw targeting wildlife attractants demonstrate are a sensible approach to urban wildlife management.

and recovery.

electorate as being not about today, but about the future.

There tend to be two types of provincial and federal elected officials. Some focus on the Legislature, advocating for their communities and working to shape provincial or federal policy. Others take a more constituent-based focus, spending more time at local events and helping people closer to street level.

These are people who want to show the community that they’re serious about recovery and want to contribute. Programs like the one Integrity offers work, and we need more people like Edwards willing to go out of pocket to help others.

But once those dead trees had been turned into cash, experts warned at the time, the province needed a long-term plan to deal with the eventual collapse of the industry. That plan never came, and here we are in that collapse. The industry has about half the jobs it did 25 years ago. It’s failing.

This is not just about bears; it’s about cultivating a city that respects and protects its natural inhabitants while promoting a cleaner environment for its residents.

We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.

Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

This is odd, considering we’ve had an NDP government in power since 2017. Left and centre-left political ideology usually embraces the opposite of kicking the can down the road. Climate change mandates, carbon taxes and the move to renewable energy is usually sold on the idea that we’re taking on tough challenges (and higher expenses) now in order to protect the planet for future generations.

The public outcry was discussed at council’s Sept. 9 meeting, but it wasn’t why Edwards was denied an application for a permit to operate his residential program at the most recent city council meeting. At least, we don’t think so. The decision of council was based on procedural errors Edwards made.

The impact of a focused staff position extends beyond bear management. This role could lead the charge in implementing educational programs designed to raise awareness about the importance of reducing bear attractants.

Bond managed to combine both of those approaches and make it work. First elected in Prince George-Valemount in 2001, she served as an MLA, a cabinet minister (justice, transportation and infrastructure; advanced education; health services; jobs, tourism and skills training; labour). She was attorney general, a vicechair of the treasury board and, for two years, interim party leader and leader of the official opposition – all while maintaining a high profile here in Prince George.

By engaging the community in fruit-gleaning programs and informing residents about the benefits of secure waste storage, we could cultivate a culture of responsibility and stewardship.

Initiatives like these have far-reaching

Now he’s back, set to make a presentation to council on Oct. 7. He plans to make council understand that a crucial part of his original application was misinterpreted.

An example is the NDP’s reasoning for its energy and climate policies. The move away from natural gas, the shift from gas-powered to electric vehicles and the end of single-use plastics like grocery bags has been marketed to the

With the NDP in power, she is the shadow minister for health, seniors services and long-term care and shadow minister for mental health, addiction

Owner / Publisher

First, understand the process. This isn’t easy. Governments like to employ a particularly complicated and verbose jungle of bureaucratese that, for laypeople, can be intimidating and tough to penetrate. So take the time to figure out what’s required and how to make it happen.

But here’s a situation where the future was clear and little was done to stop a crisis from happening.

However, these measures will only be effective if supported by community understanding (and compliance), which a dedicated staff member could help make happen.

We should also remember that she served on the school board before that. So we’re talking about decades of public service here.

The proposed educational materials regarding human-bear interactions — distributed through utility bills and social media — could be spearheaded by this dedicated staffer, ensuring that the messaging is clear, engaging, and effectively reaches all segments of our community.

That translated into several neveronce-close election wins for her, some of which can be ascribed to party leanings but also to her obvious dedication to Prince George and area.

This person doing that job could bridge the gap between legislation and

What could have been done? The province took several steps, like pushing made-in-BC wood products. And there’s this, from the province, which doesn’t really say much: “We are tapping into the knowledge and expertise of forest and ecosystem experts, First Nations, forest communities and others to collaboratively protect forests health across the province and preserve the value that only forests can provide.”

Consider this online comment posted to Reddit along with our story announcing her decision to step away: “Wasn’t a fan of her politics but she did serve PG well, she was an advocate for the North. She deserved better.” Or another: “I

Second, make a friend on council. Our councillors are elected to represent us at city hall, so hold them to that. Make personal connections so you have an advocate sitting around the council table. Be ready to be successful. You may, as Edwards did, find someone willing to stand up for you as an advocate.

Unfortunately, for all these vision

Kennedy Gordon Managing Editor

The province does contribute to the forestry industry, but it’s focused more on the new approaches mentioned earlier. One example from the government: “Through the $180-million BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, the province has committed as much as $70.3 million to forest-sector transition and diversification across 50 projects, which will create and sustain more than 2,500 jobs. Investments are focused on boosting high-quality, made-in-B.C. wood-product lines that create more sustainable jobs for every tree harvested.”

Council’s Nov. 4 vote on the committee’s recommendations is not just about managing bear encounters. The vote represents a larger vision for a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between wildlife and people. By committing to a dedicated position focused on sustainable waste management, we can not only improve bear-human relations but also foster a community that values and protects its natural environment.

That’s misguided. There are people out there who aren’t living in supportive housing that may pose a much more realistic problem.

That doesn’t do much good if fewer trees are being harvested. Had it been started 20 years ago, we might be having a different conversation today. But it wasn’t.

She could have stayed in the race. It’s likely that Bond would have been easily re-elected as a Conservative, and even as an independent. But she made the call she did, and we can respect that. It’s interesting to consider where BC United would be today had Bond decided to pursue the leadership rather than agree to serve as interim leader of what was then the BC Liberal Party. Would the name change have happened? Would the Conservatives have risen as quickly as they did? Would we be watching an unprecedented political collapse unfold in real time like this? We can’t know. All we can know is that she made this major decision knowing it was right for her and her family, and we can trust that she carefully considered the impact on her constitutuents and her community before she did.

With Moccasin Flats set for closure this fall, we know many of its residents will reject the structure required in the new trailer housing set up nearby and will return to the urban woods, with no supports, no rules and no barriers. That’s who you don’t want in your backyard.

This initiative stands to benefit not just the bears and the people of Prince George, but also the very essence of our city — a commitment to sustainability, safety, and shared responsibility. Let’s choose to invest in a future that reflects these values.

People on the road to recovery need to start their journeys in safe, stable, substance-free surroundings. Edwards provides that.

He deserves council’s full attention and consideration.

We’re not calling for an immediate bailout, but it is something that should be studied. The next government must take a closer look at what can be done to revive and grow the forestry sector. BC depends on it.

Few elected officials in this country can claim a legacy like hers. If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ll likely agree, no matter your politics.

Have your say with a letter to the editor: editor@pgcitizen.ca

Kennedy Gordon is The Citizen’s managing editor.

Kennedy Gordon is The Citizen’s managing editor.

Kennedy Gordon is The Citizen’s managing editor.

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Letters to the editor are welcome. The maximum length is 300 words. Letters may be subject to editing for length, clarity, grammar, spelling and legalities prior to publication. Please include your daytime contact information.

Letters may be subject to editing for length, clarity, grammar, spelling wand legalities prior to publication. Please include your daytime contact information.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

A bear is spotted on Oak Street in Prince George. The city has an advisory committee that works

Cameron Stolz Owner

Terresa Randall-Stolz Owner

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

OPINION

On one hand, it’s a feel-good story about first-time home ownership; on the other, it highlights real issues

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

At a time when home ownership often feels like a distant dream for many young adults, our story about Cole Brenton, a 22-year-old who recently bought the cheapest house in Prince George for $179,900, caught readers’ attention. Not just locally – his story was read across the country. This wouldn’t have been the case a decade or two ago, but times are very different now.

And while it was definitely a goodnews story, it also highlights the broader issues facing a generation grappling with an increasingly impenetrable real estate market.

With housing prices in many areas hovering between half a million to a million dollars, coupled with stagnant wages and a challenging job market, the path to home ownership has become more arduous than ever. For most young people just starting their careers, the notion of affording a house seems less like a goal and more like a fantasy. Brenton’s story, however, underscores that while the odds may be stacked against them, it is still possible to break through — if one is fortunate enough to find the right opportunity.

Brenton’s journey to home ownership began with a casual observation of the housing market, but it quickly transformed into a focused mission. His decision to buy a free-standing house instead of a condo illustrates a crucial point: Young buyers are becoming increasingly discerning about what they want and what value truly means in today’s market. With high strata fees and the absence of land in many condo options, Brenton chose a property that offers potential for growth and personalization, a quality many young buyers now prioritize.

What makes Brenton’s story newsworthy is not just the purchase itself

but the rapid pace at which it happened. In just a few days, he went from reading the listing to viewing the property to being handed the keys to his own house, demonstrating that determination and timely decision-making can yield remarkable results — even in a market rife with obstacles.

For many young people, navigating the complexities of mortgage approval and real estate can feel overwhelming. Yet Brenton highlights how steady employment and support from family and friends can make it easier. His relationship with his employer, who played a major role in guiding him through the home-buying process, reveals another vital aspect of this narrative: community and mentorship. In an age where social networks often substitute for traditional familial and community structures, the importance of having mentors in one’s career

can be life-changing. Brenton’s story reminds us that having someone to turn to for advice, especially someone who understands the nuances of financial planning and home renovation ,can empower young buyers to take significant steps toward homeownership.

However, while Brenton’s success story is inspiring, it should not mask the challenges faced by countless others. For every young adult who manages to buy a home, there are many more who are either priced out of the market or burdened by student debt and low wages.

The average cost of a home in urban centres — and, increasingly, in smaller communities — continues to rise, making it increasingly difficult for young people to achieve the stability and independence that homeownership can offer.

Brenton acknowledges the rarity of

his situation: “It’s not so common anymore for someone as young as me to buy a house.” His story should serve as both an encouragement and a rallying cry for policymakers to take action in addressing the housing crisis. Initiatives that support affordable housing development, offer financial education, and facilitate easier access to mortgages for young buyers could make a significant difference in the lives of many.

Ultimately, Brenton’s journey is a testament to perseverance, strategic decision-making, and the power of community support. It exemplifies that while the path to homeownership has its challenges, it is not impossible.

As young people face the daunting task of building their futures, they should take inspiration from stories like Brenton’s.

Have your say with a letter to the editor: editor@pgcitizen.ca

HANDOUT PHOTO

While the story of a 22-year-old Prince George man who was able to buy his first house made headlines because it’s so unusual nowadays.

OPINION

Dutch Canadian Tulip Committee prepare for the 80th anniversary of liberation of Holland

Yes. It is very sad that most Canadians have no clue about this.

I’m proud of many things Shirley Bond has done but this one touches my heart deeply as my uncle, a local veteran who has passed away, was one of the soldiers that helped free Holland.

Shirley was a good friend to him and made sure to thank the veterans who sacrificed so much to liberate the country.

We as a society especially the younger generation have forgotten the price of the freedom we enjoy and how much people suffered during that war.

The veterans are almost all gone and we have forgotten.

Thank you Shirley for your tireless efforts in making sure we never forget freedom is not free.

R. Nich

22-year-old buys cheapest house in Prince George

The best thing any young person can do.

Drive a beater and buy a house.

So many young people these days have a huge new jacked -up truck payment.

They also have credit cards and/ or toys on payments.

This kid is working hard and getting ahead.

Keep things fair

22-year-old buys cheapest house in Prince George

This is the way. Everyone howls about house prices, but everyone also overlooks the idea that few, if any of us, get our ‘dream’ home the first time. Buy small and work your way up.

Bob Robertson

22-year-old buys cheapest house in Prince George

It’s good to see a young person invest in his dream … But don’t do this alone.

Get someone to see you through the first five years of mortgage payments and have see how much wealth you accumulated.

Financial planner ( private or bank). Happy life and prosper.

Pierre Lambert

PG council doubles frequency of town hall meetings

Why does the city pay to rent its own facility?

Is there nobody employed by the city that can facilitate a meeting?

They have some pretty high paid help that talk a lot, perhaps the city communications director???

Rosco P

Council supports push for psychiatric hospital in city

The Mental Health Act did have some revisions in the late 1990s and I believe there was one more round since. It is worth having another look at to ensure that it is enacted in a way that respects and safeguards an individual’s human rights. I look at the former youth containment center with caution especially if it used long term for the following reasons:

1) It was built to “contain” not to restore health so without major renovations is not a good structure for healing and may even be triggering for some.

2) It is not nearly large enough to serve the north 3) I worry that once opened the politicians and decision makers with simply write the issue off as “solved”

4) Without enhanced community based supportive structures and processes in place it becoming a “dumping ground” with no long term plans for the people who are there.

It may be useful for specific situations if the risks are addressed BEFORE people are placed there.

PG Archer

Council supports push for psychiatric hospital in city

About time, damn good idea. Use these empty buildings for something useful. Get the drug addicted and alcoholic people of the street, inturn we may end up with less crime also.

Bert

Van den Brink

Council supports push for psychiatric hospital in city

Who is going to staff it? There are currently ZERO community psychiatrists in Prince George accepting new referrals... also, how are they going to manage medical issues that arise?

Current psychiatric unit won’t take patients until medically cleared, and consult out to medical physicians if there’s a non-psychiatric question.

Agree in principle, but seems like lots of kinks to iron out before even considering it an option.

A separate psychiatric emergency department in our current hospital would be incredible however, offload the psych burden from the main unit and not have mentally unstable patients potentially causing an unsafe environment for the general public.

North MD

BC SPCA ending Prince George animal shelter operations

I am disappointed to learn this. The SPCA is very important to the welfare of animals and provides a venue for those who are concerned with animal abuse. Who else has the experience and knowledge to hold people accountable for harm intentionally done to these animals that are at our mercy?

L. Louise

Share your views on our stories at pgcitizen.ca

BC Hydro reports Site C is now generating electricity

CITIZEN STAFF

Electricity is starting to flow from the Site C hydroelectric project, which has marked a significant milestone with the successful operation of its first generating unit after completing the necessary testing and commissioning process.

BC Hydro made the announcement Monday.

This unit is the first of six planned for the project, each capable of delivering over 180 megawatts of power to BC Hydro customers from the facility, located about 400 kilometres north of Prince George.

The remaining units will be brought online sequentially, with all six expected to be operational by fall 2025.

Once fully operational, Site C will provide approximately 1,100 megawatts of capacity and generate around 5,100 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, contributing an estimated eight per cent increase to British Columbia’s electricity supply.

As reservoir filling progresses, the Site C reservoir is currently more than 90 per cent full, with water levels at the dam rising by about 40 metres since filling commenced in late August.

This elevation is critical for the operation of the generating units, BC Hydro states.

Reservoir filling is on track to conclude later this fall, and testing for the second generating unit is already underway.

BC Hydro is urging the public to avoid the reservoir area during filling and for at least one year afterward, due to potential hazards including unstable surrounding land and floating vegetation debris.

Comprehensive warning signs have been installed to ensure public safety, and existing boat launches will remain closed until it is deemed safe for public access.

In preparation for reservoir filling, BC Hydro has engaged with local communities and First Nations through open houses, field tours, and support initiatives.

This is the Site C powerhouse, with Unit 1 in the foreground. Unit 1 is now generating power, with the other units expected to be operational by fall 2025.

They are also collaborating on a cultural centre in the Peace region.

The impact on agricultural land in the Peace Agricultural Region is minimal, with less than one per cent affected, BC Hydro states.

A $20 million Peace Agricultural Compensation Fund has been established to support local agricultural initiatives.

To mitigate wildlife impacts, BC Hydro is removing vegetation from the reservoir area while also creating wetlands and wildlife habitats.

The timing of the reservoir filling is

designed to minimize disruptions to wildlife, falling between critical nesting and denning periods.

Despite the current provincial drought, water conditions will not affect the filling of the Site C reservoir, as it will draw water from the upstream Williston Reservoir.

This volume is significantly lower than the annual discharge from Williston, even in drought conditions, ensuring that downstream flows remain stable.

Key facts about Site C:

• The Site C project is a third dam and hydroelectric generating station on the Peace River, initiated in July 2015 and now more than 85 per cent complete.

• The first generating unit is set to come into service in December 2024, with all units projected to be operational by fall 2025.

• The project remains within its approved 2021 budget and aims to provide enough clean electricity for nearly 500,000 homes or 1.7 million electric vehicles.

Lost luggage spoils Jared Young’s PG homecoming

The brown leather bag with his passport, iPad, gifts and cash fell off the back of a truck

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TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Professional baseball player Jared Young arrived at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 with his girlfriend Julia for his first visit to his Prince George hometown in a year.

His friend Jake LeBrun left a pickup truck for him in the airport parking lot and they loaded their checked luggage under the tonneau cover and headed for College Heights, where Jared’s mom Dana was waiting for them.

When they got to their destination, Jared’s heart sank.

He realized that the brown leather shoulder bag that contained his passport, identification, iPad and gifts for his family was nowhere to be found.

dad) Randy’s mailbox, the address is on his ID.

He needs to get a passport before he can go back to Arizona.

“It would be amazing if his bag is returned with all the contents, but if he could get his ID back, that would be incredible. We’re so hoping.”

Jared had to scramble in the days after his arrival to obtain an emergency passport.

The lost shoulder bag also contained several baseballs and Doosan Bears ball caps from the team in Korea where he played the second half of the season.

In the dark airport parking lot he had inadvertently left the bag on top of the truck cover and it fell off in the intersection of Highway 16 and Ferry Avenue near the Real Canadian Superstore at around 8 p.m. as he turned left off Ferry to head up west on the highway to his mom’s place.

Jared immediately turned on his iPhone’s Find My Device function and it showed the iPad was at the Superstore parking lot.

But not long after that the signal went dead.

Whoever found the bag had turned the iPad off.

By the time he got there, 10 minutes after he discovered the loss, it was nowhere to be found.

“The bag stayed on the vehicle the whole way until he got to the intersection and when Kat and Tanner (Jared’s sister-in-law and brother) posted it on Facebook, people had seen it in the middle of the intersection,” said Dana.

“They looked and could see the ping from the iPad was at Superstore and then it was turned off right away.

“He just wants to get his passport and ID back. This has basically consumed him since he’s been here. Even if they just dropped it off anonymously at (his

Jared, Julia and his father Randy scoured the area, looking in dumpsters for his possessions but came up empty.

The family also asked at Superstore if there was any video surveillance but the cameras were not aimed at the intersection and no one has stepped forward with dash cam footage.

The 29-year-old utility outfielder went to Korea as an unrestricted free agent on Aug. 24, after playing 74 games this season in triple-A with the Memphis Redbirds, the St. Louis Cardinals’ top farm team.

Young played 22 Major League Baseball games over two seasons (2022 and 2023) with the Chicago Cubs, the team that drafted him in 2017.

This season he had immediate success with the Doosan Bears and became a favourite with the fans in Seoul as one of two Canadians on the Korean Baseball Organization team.

In 38 games he hit .326 with 10 home runs, 39 RBI and 1.080 OPS and led the Bears into the playoffs with a fourthplace 74-68-2 record.

If you have any information about the whereabouts of Jared’s belongings, call Dana Young at 250-552-1540.

A reward has been offered.

This shows the shoulder bag professional baseball player Jared Young lost while returning from the airport to his mom’s College Heights home in Prince

Young

John Hart Bridge reopens

This drone shot shows sewer line infrastucture replacement at the John Hart Bridge on Highway 97 which has kept the southbound lanes closed for nearly two weeks. They reopened on the morning of Friday, Oct. 25. The two southbound lanes on Highway 97 were closed on Oct. 9 for the installation of a permanent 1,300-metre bypass line that runs under the bridge starting from a lift station on Richard Road and continuing south to the intersection of Highway 97 and Fifth Avenue, where it will tie into an existing line. Drivers were forced to exit the highway at North Nechako Road to cross the river using the Foothills Bridge to the west or the Cameron Street Bridge crossing to the east.

Cougars to pay tribute to community heroes at game

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

On Remembrance Day weekend, the Prince George Cougars are hosting their annual Community Heroes special event to pay tribute to people who make our community a safer and better place to live.

The WHL team has purchased $50,000 worth of tickets for the Cougars’ twogame series against the Vancouver Giants on Saturday, Nov. 9 (6 p.m. start) and Sunday, Nov. 10 (2 p.m.), to be distributed to local community heroes, including firefighters, police, paramedics, military personnel, medical staff, teachers and other essential frontline workers.

The event is sponsored by Coastal GasLink.

The hockey club is also encouraging local businesses to participate by purchasing blocks of tickets for their community heroes.

The Cougars are hosting their annual community Heroes weekend on Nov. 9-10 at CN Centre. It’s also the first Mega 50-50 draw of the season.

Inland Truck and Equipment and Link Belt are sponsoring the first Mega 50-50 jackpot draw of the season which

Site C reservoir filling is underway

BC Hydro is filling the Site C reservoir between Fort St. John and Hudson’s Hope. Water levels are rising between 30 centimetres and three metres per day.

The public is strongly urged to stay off the reservoir and its tributaries, specifically the Halfway River. Please use extreme caution near the shoreline, as there may be new hazards including:

○ Submerged hazards

○ Floating vegetation debris

○ Unstable shoreline and erosion

BC Hydro is monitoring for debris and slope stability.

All public boat launches on the reservoir are closed. New boat launches will open when the reservoir is deemed safe, which will be at earliest Spring 2026.

If you see a large animal in distress in the reservoir area, please contact the B.C. Conservation Officer Service through the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1 877 952 RAPP (7277).

For more information visit SiteCproject.com/reservoir or call 1 877 217 0777 7255

guarantees $50,000 will go into the pot for the weekend event.

Proceeds from the 50-50 draw will

be distributed by the Cougars 50-50 Society to support non-profit agencies in the community, including the Prince George Community Foundation, Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, Prince George Firefighters Charitable Society, and RCMP Victim Services.

50-50 tickets will be sold at the game or online, https://bit.ly/PGmega5050.

“Community Heroes Weekend always proves to be a fun and exciting weekend for the Cougars,” said Taylor Dakers, the Cougars’ director of business operations.

“It’s special to get so many essential workers under the same roof watching great hockey and having a great time with one another. Seeing local businesses step up and provide tickets for them and their families is also extremely rewarding. Watching the 50/50 jackpot grow into the six digits and seeing the frenzy that goes along with that is awesome every time.”

Mindy Stroet departs PG Community Foundation

CITIZEN STAFF

The Prince George Community Foundation (PGCF) has announced the resignation of Mindy Stroet, who has served as the director of development and co-leader for seven years.

Stroet’s leadership has been instrumental in the foundation’s growth, significantly advancing fundraising efforts, grant disbursements and program development, the announcement states.

She’s leaving for a new role at the University of Northern British Columbia.

“I am proud of the work we have accomplished together,” Stroet stated. “It has been an absolute honour to be part of the Prince George Community Foundation. I look forward to cheering on the team from the sidelines and remaining an active member of the community.”

Zahid Islam, president of the PGCF

board, praised Stroet’s achievements, saying, “Mindy has been an outstanding leader. Her dedication has allowed the PGCF to thrive and build on its strong foundation. We extend our deepest gratitude and wish her every success in her future endeavours.”

The foundation plans to announce details regarding future hiring soon.

“It has been an absolute honour to be part of the Prince George Community Foundation and the Community Foundation movement,” Stroet stated. “Thank you to the community for your support. I look forward to this next step and remaining an active member of the community and region.”

Stroet

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

Airport donates fire trucks to Barkerville

Prince George Airport Authority (PGAA) mascot Amelia Bearheart puts her seal of approval on the deal as Barkerville general manager Carrie Chard and PGAA CEO and president Gord Duke stand in front of the two Waltek Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting trucks at YXS Wednesday, Oct. 23. The two Waltek trucks were due to be retired following regulated upgrades to the airport’s fleet, but are both fully operational and suitable for use at the historic town, the airport authority stated. With four-wheel-drive the trucks are capable of fighting fire all around the town. Barkerville narrowly escaped wildfires this past summer.

Prince George, Kelowna now connected by air

CITIZEN STAFF

Pacific Coastal Airlines officially launched its first non-stop service between Prince George (YXS) and Kelowna (YLW) on Tuesday morning.

The inaugural flight was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony before the first flight of the 19-passenger Beechcraft 1900.

Coun. Tim Bennett, serving as acting mayor, joined Gustavo Zorzi from Pacific Coastal Airlines and Gordon Duke, president and CEO of the Prince George Airport Authority, to talk about the route’s potential benefits for local tourism and the economy.

“This service is a welcome addition to the existing routes at YXS,” said Duke.

The new service operates six times a week. Flights depart Prince George at 7:45 a.m., landing in Kelowna at 9:10

a.m., and depart Kelowna at 6:20 p.m., landing in Prince George at 7:40 p.m.

“This new flight is designed to allow convenient day trips,” said Berkan Kucukkatipoglu, Pacific Coastal’s director of commercial planning.

Prince George Airport serves as a critical transportation hub in Northern BC, connecting the region to major Canadian cities and international destinations.

Pacific Coastal Airlines operates from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal and serves 18 airports across the province.

To celebrate the launch, Pacific Coastal Airlines is offering a 20 per cent discount on flights between the two cities using the promo code KELPG20.

For booking and additional details, visit the Pacific Coastal Airlines website or call 1-800-663-2872.

Effective December 1, 2024, BC Transit will cease the sale of legacy fare products to offer more convenient options such as Umo Cash Balance, a digital DayPASS, or a 30-Day Pass. Get ready for the benefits of travelling with Umo and download the Umo Mobility app or pick up a free reloadable Umo card at one of our vendor locations today.

 Scan to learn about all available fare products in the Prince George Transit System.

Crash causes Gateway detours

Firefighters work to disconnect the battery of a car that crossed the median, a turn lane and jumped the curb to hit the back of an SUV in the Northland Nissan lot after being involved in a collision at the intersection of 20th Avenue and Highway 16 west. The crash occurred at about 4:20 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, blocking traffic and requiring a detour around the area for drivers heading west. While occupants of both vehicles were able to exit, the driver of one vehicle was attended to by paramedics.

BC SPCA ending Prince George animal shelter operations

CITIZEN STAFF

The BC SPCA is ending its animal shelter operations in Prince George as of January 1 now that the City of Prince George’s has awarded the contract for these services to another provider.

The Prince George Humane Society was awarded the $1,209,315 annual contract after a tendering process that opened in early September. The winning bid was confirmed Thursday, Oct. 24.

The BC SPCA has been the operator the North Cariboo Community Animal Centre, handling more than 1,500 animals annually. The centre is also responsible for the highest municipal stray animal intake in the province, often serving as a triage site for significant animal protection seizures.

The city signed a contract with the BC SPCA in 2021, retroactive to December 2019, at $1,105,855.36 over five years. It is set to expire Dec. 31.

As the Lansdowne Road shelter is

Cats are among animals available for adoption at the BC SPCA’s community animal centres. A new provider is taking over shelter services in Prince George.

city-owned, the Humane Society will take over its operations. The BC SPCA indicated it will work with its successor to make sure things go well.

“We’ve valued our partnership with the city for decades and are committed to supporting a smooth transition to minimize any service gaps for the animals of Prince George,” said Jamey

Blair, senior manager of animal care services for the Interior and Northern regions with the BC SPCA.

Blair expressed disappointment over the decision but congratulated the Humane Society.

The change means the BC SPCA will have to find a new facility to continue its work, which includes

animal protection investigations, pet food banks and school-based humane education.

The organization has plans for a new purpose-built centre, expected to be completed closer to 2030, but may now seek quicker alternatives to maintain its presence in the community, states a letter sent to supporters.

“With the end of the animal shelter operations contract between the BC SPCA and the city, we will need to explore faster options and are currently looking into suitable short-term options for either a physical space or the provision of a community services model, similar to what has been piloted in other communities where there is currently no physical BC SPCA facility,” the letter states.

Despite the change, the BC SPCA will continue to operate its spay/neuter clinic and is exploring options for community services, similar to models successfully implemented in other areas without physical BC SPCA facilities.

Man who shot up detachment has sentence cut in half

CITIZEN STAFF

A man convicted of firing rounds into the Vanderhoof RCMP detachment has had his prison time cut in half after he successfully appealed his sentencing.

Paul Nicholas Russell was arrested after firing multiple shots from a rifle on Nov. 25, 2021.

The shots hit the police building’s windows and several unoccupied police vehicles. Russell fled and was arrested after a chase.

Court heard that Russell had been experiencing psychotic episodes and drinking heavily in the period leading up to the incident.

He was acquitted of attempted murder in a judge-alone trial, but found guilty of firearms-related charges and flight from police, leading to a 10-year sentence imposed on Nov, 7, 2023. The Crown had asked for 10-12 years, while the defence asked for time served

(three years including pre-trial credit) and two years of probation.

In its decision, the court ruled that his mental health issues weren’t considered at the time of the original sentencing.

“The appellant was a 36-year-old first-time offender when these offences were committed,” Justice Janet Winteringham wrote in the court’s ruling. “Evidence was presented that the appellant had experienced psychotic episodes in

the time leading up to the offences. The appellant contends the judge materially erred in the determination of a fit sentence in two ways: (1) by failing to afford sufficient weight to mitigating factors including the appellant’s mental illness; and (2) by imposing a sentence that was demonstrably unfit.”

In her written decision, Winteringham stated that Russell’s sentence would be reduced to four years for reckless

discharge of a firearm, four years for mischief endangering life (concurrent) and one year consecutive for the offence of flight from a police officer.

The sentence is retroactive to Nov. 7, 2023, and include pre-trial credit.

Winteringham stated that Russell, a first-time offender, has done well while in custody, staying sober and receiving treatment and medication to address his mental health issues.

Local suspect charged with second-degree murder

CITIZEN STAFF

Prince George RCMP have made an arrest in connection with the death of a woman last year.

Lydia McFarlane died in July 2023. On Friday, Oct. 19, the Crown issued a warrant for the arrest of Clarence Lee Engstrom, 55, of Prince George. He was arrested by the Serious Crime Unit the same day.

McFarlane’s body was discovered on July 17, 2023, the North Star Inn at the corner of Victoria Street and 15th Avenue. She was living in the hotel at the time.

Engstrom is charged with second-degree murder.

“The Serious Crime Unit and other specialized police services have been working on this investigation since the outset in order to see this matter brought before the courts,” stated Staff Sgt. Aaron Whitehouse, commander of the Serious Crime Unit.

Engstrom is in custody.

July 17, 2023.

A man fired several shots at the Vanderhoof RCMP station and several unoccupied police vehicles on Nov. 25, 2021.

Investigators dressed in protective suits work at the North Star Inn at Victoria and 15th after a woman was found dead on

Owner of downtown building that exploded files lawsuit against insurer, security company

CITIZEN STAFF

The company that owns a Prince George building destroyed in an explosion last year is suing its insurance provider, the security company hired to check on the building and one of the security firm’s employees.

Commonwealth Campus Corp. filed a civil claim against Lloyds Underwriters, Paladin Security Group Ltd. and Shabaz Singh, described in the notice of claim as a security patrol officer working for Paladin.

Paladin was hired by Commonwealth in October 2021 to carry out full exterior and interior security checks of the vacant former restaurant every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

“Mobile officers will arrive on site and conduct a full exterior patrol, checking on all windows, doors and the surrounding area of the property for any signs of damage, vandalism and unauthorized persons,” Commonwealth’s agreement with Paladin states.

“The officer will also go inside the building to inspect for any signs of break-ins and leaks.”

Paladin was also required to submit reports to Commonwealth by email after each check.

“Prior to the commencement of security services by the defendant, Paladin, to the plaintiff, the plaintiff specifically advised the defendant, Paladin, that external and internal inspections were a requirement for insurance coverage, and that the insurance policy states that the plaintiff, Commonwealth, must have the location inspected every 72 hours,” Commonwealth states in its suit.

The suit states that Lloyd’s denied Commonwealth’s insurance claim after the explosion, alleging there were no internal inspections on some Mondays, the alarm system was not activated or deactivated on those Mondays and there was a failure to maintain the alarm system.

This violated terms of

Commonwealth’s policy, the insurer determined.

Commonwealth states that to its knowledge all required inspections were carried out.

The company is asking for compensation for the losses from the insurance company and further damages for breach of contract.

If the court confirms the insurer’s findings and determines that Lloyd’s was entitled to deny coverage, Commonwealth then asks for compensation from Paladin and Singh, including punitive and bad faith damages, along with court costs and interest.

None of Commonwealth’s claims have been proven in court.

Neither Lloyds nor Paladin has yet filed a response.

The building in question, the former Achillion Greek Cuisine restaurant located on the southeast corner of Dominion Street and 4th Avenue, exploded early in the morning of Aug. 22, 2023.

Police determined thieves who broke into the building to steal copper pipes severed a natural gas line, causing a gas leak.

One of the intruders reportedly lit a cigarette, which set off the blast that

seriously injured city worker Victoria Mcgivern, who had approached the entrance of the building after noticing a gas odour.

Two other people were also injured, and neighbouring buildings were damaged.

At the time of the blast the building, zoned for C1 commercial development, had been listed for sale for the six years since the Achillion closed.

It had been available for lease but Commonwealth had been unable to find a tenant.

With files from Ted Clarke and Mark Nielsen

SHAYNE HAWLEY PHOTO

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

Court rules man who vanished in fire is legally dead

CITIZEN STAFF

The BC Supreme Court has officially declared that Vernon Michael Martin, who went missing in a hangar fire at the Prince George International Airport on Dec. 19, 2009, is dead.

Three of his brothers filed the petition with the BC Supreme Court. The declaration came from Justice Carla Forth as of Dec. 19, 2009.

The ruling comes after almost 15 years of uncertainty.

The court heard Martin had been accused of sexual misconduct, and later heard that a suicide note and will had been found in a fire-proof file cabinet after the fire.

Martin, who was 55 at the time of the fire, was one of eight children and owned several companies with three of his brothers.

Martin’s family wanted him declared dead in order to finalize his estate. Court heard that Martin had 16 life insurance policies.

The RCMP later reported that it had an ongoing investigation against Martin for public mischief, and there were also charges laid against him in Alberta for two counts of indecent assault and two counts of gross indecency.

On Dec. 17, 2009, he was asked to attend a meeting with several family members in order to discuss the allegations of sexual misconduct. Court heard Martin did not deny the allegations and later expressed remorse.

This is also addressed in the letter he left with his will, which was discovered by a relative months after the fire.

Court heard a longtime employee and his wife then met with Martin on Dec. 19 to discuss allegations that he had engaged in sexual misconduct with their son when he was a teenager.

After the confrontation at the home of one of his sisters, Martin left to go to the Northern Thunderbird hanger at the airport owned by one of his family’s companies.

The last people to see him alive were the manager of an airport-based company and his wife at about 1:30 p.m. An hour later, smoke was spotted coming

out of a hanger window. Fire crews responded, with firefighters testifying that they saw no sign of Martin during their efforts.

Although an electrical issue had been reported at the hanger and was due to be checked later that month, there was no way to determine whether that was the cause of the fire. Its cause remains undetermined.

While no human remains were found after the fire, after considering expert testimony from anthropologists the court determined that high-pressure fire hoses and heavy machinery used in the aftermath of the fire could have easily dispersed bone fragments throughout the rubble, complicating recovery efforts.

Martin’s last known whereabouts were inside the hangar, and despite extensive searches by local authorities, family, and insurers, no evidence indicated he left the site, the court ruled. His vehicle was found next to the charred remains of the hangar, and personal items, including his wallet and identification, were located within.

Investigations confirmed that he was not listed on any flight manifests or taxi passenger lists, and given the cold weather conditions that day, it would have been highly improbable for him to walk far.

related to historical sexual misconduct allegations against him.

Testimony suggesting a sighting of him post-disappearance was also deemed unconvincing, particularly due to discrepancies in accounts and evidence.

The fireproof safes and filing cabinet were located at the site in March by one of Martin’s brothers. After they were dried out, they were found to include an apology in addition to details of the disposition of his assets in a will dated Dec. 16, 2009.

The court dismissed claims that Martin could have faked his disappearance, stating there was no evidence of him arranging to vanish or of foul play

In light of the circumstances, which also included financial records raising doubt that Martin could afford a clandestine existence on the run, the court concluded that Martin took his own life. Forth added that she was not required to determine how he died, only that he had.

The court ordered that legal costs associated with the petition will be covered by his estate.

2024 MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS SYMPOSIUM

Co-hosted by the NCLGA, the Lheidli T’enneh, the City of Prince George, and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George REGISTER BY NOV 6

https://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2024/NCLGA-Health

RCMP HANDOUT PHOTO

Vernon Michael Martin of Prince George has been declared legally dead. He was last seen before a fire in 2009.

What’s happening in PG

The PG Italian Centre is offering homemade, authentic Italian pasta, meatballs, sauce and baking for the Christmas season to be ordered until Saturday, Nov. 16. Lasagna 8x12 tray for $37, large meatballs one dozen for $25, gnocchi 1.2 pounds $15 and marinara sauce 24 ounces $10. Pre-order by email at orderspgic@gmail.com and pre-pay by e-transfer pgitalainclub1@gmail.com. Pick up is Sunday, Nov. 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the PG Italian Centre downtown at 1209 Fifth Ave. during the Christmas bake sale. For more information visit on Facebook or go to www.princegeorgeitalianclub.com.

Moran Manor’s Halloween goes Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at 309 Moran Crescent. Celebrate Halloween by visiting the spooky set up, animatronics, live actors and haunted maze. Donations are accepted and non-perishable food items are welcome. Non-scary visit goes from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and scary version goes from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Flashing lights and fog machines are used during this event.

Haunted House on Sussex goes Thursday, Oct. 31 from 4 to 9 p.m. at 2857 Sussex Place. This is for brave souls only and features live actors, strobe lights and fog machines. Anyone wishing to safely go through without being spooked please seek out the witch. Anyone holding the witch’s hand is off limits. We want everyone to have a safe and fun Halloween. Fireworks from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

Halloween Fireworks goes Thursday, Oct. 31 at 8:15 p.m. at College Heights Recreation Park. Presented by the College Heights Community Association this annual events offers fun for the whole family.

Halloween Fun at the Museum goes Thursday, Oct. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 pm. At The Exploration Place, 333 Becott Pl. Explore a world of festive excitement and don’t forget to wear a costume. Schedule includes 9:30 a.m. Fizzy Pumpkins Experiment; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bat Craft; 1:30 p.m. Pumpkin Slime Experiment; 2:30 to 4 p.m. Spiderweb Craft; 5 p.m. Pumpkin Lava

Experiment; and from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mummy Craft. For all the details visit https://theexplorationplace.com/event/ halloween-fun-at-the-museum/

Pumpkin Walk and Haunted House goes Thursday, Oct. 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Pineview Recreation Commission, 6470 Bendixon Road. This is the fourth annual event and there is a concession stand featuring hot dogs, hamburgers, fries and pop at Malcolm McLeod Memorial Park. There is free hot chocolate and a camp fire for everyone to enjoy and the fireworks will start at about 8 p.m. Come enjoy an evening of spooky fun.

Behind Veiled Eyes: Eyes Closed Eyes See presented by Method Dance Society goes Friday, Nov. 1 and Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Prince George Playhouse. This is an evolving full-length dance work expanding from the original duet, Behind Veiled Eyes. This performance examines the perception of balance through light and darkness. This immersive experience blends choreography, multimedia and design to explore the nature of the visible and the visibly hidden. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for students at www.methoddance.ca/.

Victoria Grizzlies at Prince George Spruce Kings goes Friday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 5 p.m. at

assortment of delicious baking will be available. Get an early start on your Christmas shopping and baking Concession will include hot dogs, sausage rolls, chips cookies etc.

Kopar Memorial Arena at 6 p.m. Tickets at www.sprucekings.bc.ca/tickets.

Studio Fair goes Friday, Nov. 1 from 1 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at CN Centre. There will be more than 300 vendors on site. Showcasing Canada’s best artisans at Northern BC’s Finest Professional Artisan Fair. Discover one-of-a-kind quality, handcrafted items – delectable gourmet food, luxurious soaps and candles, unique and fashionable clothing and accessories, handcrafted home decor, first class pottery and wood craft, and heirloom quality books and toys. Entry is $10 and gets you through the door all weekend.

St. Mary’s Craft Fair goes Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Mary’s school gym, 1088 Gillett St. There will be 47 tables of goods from a variety of vendors including knitting and sewing, leather goods, produce and meat, baked goods and handmade chocolate. At the concession there will be breakfast sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers and homemade soups.

Hart Pioneer Centre Craft Fair & Bake Sale goes Saturday, November 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 6986 Hart Highway. There will 28 tables of goods from local vendors and crafters. A large

Hold My Beer goes Saturday, Nov. 2 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Knox Performance Centre, 1488 Fifth Ave. Join Nove Voce choral group for a fundraising event full of music about camaraderie, friends, parties... and beer! Includes tastings from local breweries and table snacks. This will be a fun evening you won’t want to miss. Your ticket gets you a seat at a shared table, and three rounds of tastings of 3-5 beers from local breweries. Nove Voce will be performing sets between each tasting round for a full evening of music and good times. This event is limited to ages 19+. Tickets available at www.eventbrite.ca/e/ hold-my-beer-tickets.

Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association Gala goes Saturday, Nov. 2 with doors open at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. at the Columbus Community Centre, 7201 St. Lawrence Ave., featuring live band YXS with MC Carol Gass. There is a silent auction, live auction and basket raffles. For tickets message www.facebook.com/PrinceGeorgeTherapeuticRidingAssociation or email Caroline at CarolineParker5@icloud.com. The Goomahs and at the Verdants live at Omineca goes Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St., featuring local bands and local brews. Come support surf rock band the Goomahs and indie folk rock band The Verdants. $10 cover at the door.

Legends Live, Rock It, Man goes Saturday, Nov. 2 at Om Pizza Bar Café starring Cory Hicks as “Elton Enough” and featuring Kat Fullerton as “Almost Marilyn.” After getting tickets call Om to make a reservation to get the best seats at 250-562-9888. Seating at 6 p.m., show starts at 7. Tickets $30 at the door for cash only or $25 in advance at www. eventbrite.ca/e/om-pizza-bar-cafe-presents-rock-it-man-the-elton-john-experience.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Local band YXS will perform at the Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association Gala on Saturday, Nov. 2 at the Columbus Community Centre.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

The Elements, PG Conservatory of Music Faculty Chamber Concert goes Sunday, Nov. 3 at 3 p.m. the Conservatory, 3555 Fifth Ave. This concert will feature performances by voice, saxophone, piano, harp, flute and violin teachers as well as guest violinist, Maggie Corbett. Experience the beauty and energy of nature’s elements brought to life in a program that journeys from tranquil waters to fiery rhythms, and from grounded melodies to soaring soundscapes. Admission is pay-whatyou-can at the door.

Saskatoon Blades at Prince George Cougars goes Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. at CN Centre. Tickets at https://ticketsnorth.ca.

Cowichan Valley Capitals at Prince George Spruce Kings goes Friday, Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. at Kopar Memorial Arena. Tickets at www.sprucekings.bc.ca/tickets.

Vancouver Giants at Prince George Cougars goes Saturday, Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. at CN Centre. Tickets at https://ticketsnorth.ca.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour goes Thursday, Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. at CN Centre. Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and live musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all favourite Blippi hits. Grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitar, and move those feet with Blippi and get ready for a musical performance that’s fun for the whole family. For more information and tickets visit https://ticketsnorth.evenue. net/Blippi.

PG Boot & Sock Drive 2024 goes Thursday, Nov. 7 at 1 to 4 p.m. at the Fire Pit, Positive Living North’s outreach program, 1120 Third Ave. The sixth annual event to help the most vulnerable community members stay warm this winter. Seniors, youth and families are helped by the donations of winter clothing, boots and blankets. Drop off items at the Fire Pit on Wednesday, Nov. 6 by noon. Please if you can help

with gently used items contact us for pick-up or to drop off. Text at 25- 9612035 or call Rosemary at 250-562-1172 or the Fire Pit at 250-563-6113.

Cowichan Valley Capitals

George Spruce Kings goes Friday, Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. at Kopar Memorial Arena. Tickets at www.sprucekings.bc.ca/tickets.

Vancouver Giants at Prince George Cougars goes Saturday, Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. at CN Centre. Tickets at https://ticketsnorth.ca.

symphony. Tickets at www.pgso.com/ concerts/Sweeney-Todd.

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.

First Annual Cornhole Palooza at the Prince George Civic Centre goes Saturday, Nov. 9 at noon. A day of epic fun, delicious pizza and awesome entertainment in support of Intersect Youth & Family Services. Gather a team and compete in a double-elimination cornhole tournament. All skill levels are welcome - just bring your energy and have fun. Best Pizza in Town competition sees guests taste slices from pizzerias and vote for the best pizza in town from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Kidz Zone will have fun activities to keep kids entertained. For more information and tickets visit https://ticketsnorth.evenue.net/ cornholepalooza.

The 80s Club goes Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at CN Centre and features Honeymoon Suite, A Flock of Seagulls, Men Without Hats and Spoons. Bust out those neon scrunchies and acid wash jeans, these iconic 80s bands will be playing all their massive hits. Cabaret table on both sides of the floor and reserved seats in the bleachers. Tickets start at $55.50 at https://ticketsnorth. ca/80sClub.

TayTay Dance Party goes Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. at CN Centre DJ Swiftie - the world’s No. 1 touring Taylor Swift Inspired DJ - is going to make the CN Centre shimmer with videos and lights synchronized with TayTay’s music. Everyone who has a ticket and comes to the event can enter to win the door prize, including two tickets to Taylor Swift’s Vancouver concert on Friday, Dec. 6, plus airfare and hotel for two nights, plus $500 spending money.

Games Night goes every Thursday at 7 p.m at Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Drive. Come on down and join in a game of backgammon, checkers, crib or better yet try out the pool table or dart board, please bring your own darts. Open to everyone for a $5 drop in fee.

Craft & Chat at the main branch of the Prince George Public Library goes every Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. in the magazine corner, second floor, where fibre artists are invited to bring

Parkinson Support Group meetings are the third Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Drive. Meetings are informal and are for sharing information about slowing down the progression of PD. There are guest speakers, special events and biweekly exercise sessions and positive social interaction. Use lower parking lot beside ball diamond to access the seniors centre.

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

BUSINESS BREAKFAST

Thursday November 28th, 2024 8:00 am

Special Guest Speaker: Jasmit Phulka

Canadian Freestyle Wrestler Medal Winner from both Pan AM and Commonwealth Games

Guest Speaker Sponsored by:

Polka dots keep birds from crashing into windows

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

It’s always sad to see the fatal result of a bird striking a window.

Estimates are that a billion birds die in North America each year in this unnecessary and preventable way.

A university student has decided she would like to help make a change to prevent those bird fatalities.

UNBC student Jeannine Randall, with a masters of science in natural resources and environmental studies and now working towards her PhD, is studying the effects of climate change and local variability in conditions on tree swallows, which are birds that eat flying insects, making them aerial insectivores.

“If you think about going outside on a cold day there are no insects and then when you go out on a warm day there are tons of insects,” Randall explained. “If it’s really windy there are much less, so their food availability fluctuates a lot with the weather, much more than, say, birds that eat seeds.”

Randall said her passion project is to prevent birds striking windows and she started on it a couple of years ago with UNBC’s Kathy Lewis, forest pathologist/ microbial ecologist, and Russ Dawson, Randall’s advisor.

“When you see a lot of glass in a building, it’s not visible to birds,” Randall said. “They don’t perceive it as a solid surface, especially if it reflects trees or if they can see through it and it looks like a travel corridor. So essentially what we wanted to do is put up deterrents - so things on the surface of the windowsto make them visible to the birds.”

The project takes place at the university as it’s such a big campus and there is a lot of glass within the buildings.

“We wanted to learn what the worst areas were and then treat an area to demonstrate its effectiveness,” Randall said. “The main goal is to save the birds.”

And the study would provide more evidence of what works, she added.

“It’s quite a big problem,” Randall said about bird strikes. “It’s considered the

UNBC PhD student Jeannine Randall was instrumental in getting this polka-dot film applied

university to prevent bird strikes. It has eliminated the problem.

number two anthropogenic threat to birds.”

A change made by people is the definition of the word anthropogenic.

Cats are the number one anthropogenic cause of bird deaths.

There’s at least 200 birds a year that are killed when they hit a window on the UNBC campus, she added.

“And that’s a lot, right?” Randall said.

To gain some perspective Randall said she had done some research and discovered there’s at least 30,000 households in Prince George and an educated guess sees about 5,000 other buildings in the city.

That’s about 35,000 buildings that could potentially kill at least one bird a year, some don’t and others kill more so when that is put into perspective that could mean 35,000 birds are killed in Prince George every year.

“And that’s a big problem,’ Randall said. “What I find interesting about this is it’s a problem with a relatively straight forward solution.”

A company called Feather Friendly offers bird collision deterrent

technologies that makes glass visible to birds, which sees dots spaced about two inches apart on a clingy film applied to the outside of the glass. For smaller applications like household windows there’s DIY tape offered as well.

In a world where environmental problems could take generations to fix, putting polka dots on your windows to save birds is one thing that brings immediate change.

According to the Feather Friendly website it’s 95 per cent effective but Randall said on the section of the university’s windows they’ve applied it to there has been a 100 per cent reduction of birds hitting the window.

There have been no dead birds on the ground, or feathers stuck on the windows to indicate a collision, in the year since the installation was done, she added.

“For me this is relatively simple – it’s just a retrofit,” Randall said. “I find it inspiring. You have to advocate for it and people have to care enough to save the birds.”

At UNBC Randall said she’s got

another spot in mind for the next installation to prevent bird strikes.

“It’s this building, (the Teaching and Learning Centre, Building 10) that’s on my hit list, or maybe my no-hit list,” Randall smiled.

Randall also said the glassed-in corridor in front of the science building that saw the first preventative measure installed had a hawk silhouette on it and before the installation she ironically found a dead bird right under it so that was not effective at all.

“When you put things on the window, they have to be close together because birds are adapted to finding gaps in between bushes and so they will fly in between the two,” Randall said.

And here is the bad news.

You know when the bird hits the window and you go to find it sitting there stunned on the ground or you see it fly away?

“A lot of the birds do not recover,” Randall said, knowing she was the bearer of bad news. PLEASE SEE ‘BIRDS’ ON NEXT PAGE

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

to a glass corridor at the

Spruce Kings’ annual Show Home Lottery returns

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The Prince George Spruce Kings have launched ticket sales for their annual Show Home Lottery.

For the price of a $125 ticket, you could win this year’s home at 2958 Links Dr., in the Aberdeen subdivision, which is valued at $865,000.

Built by Hopson Construction, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom 1,451 square-foot house comes fully furnished, including appliances. It also includes an attached double garage and two covered sundecks.

The draw date is April 25, 2025. The house is open for viewing Wednesday-Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. each week.

Ticket three-packs cost $300.

The Spruce Kings also have two Mega 50-50 jackpot draws in which someone can win as much as $200,000. 50-50 tickets are $25 each or five for $100.

The first 50-50 draw is set for Friday, Jan. 19 and the second is set for May 16.

The first early-bird prize for the Show Home Lottery – 100 50-50 tickets, worth $2,500 – will be drawn on Dec. 13.

Birds are being saved by UNBC student’s research

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

“The estimate is 60 per cent of them don’t make it. They usually have internal injuries or concussions and fly off to die in the bush or they get eaten by a scavenger.”

Randall said that’s why people underestimate the impact windows have on bird populations.

“It would be great to get something going on a bigger scale in Prince George and starting here at the university is leading by example,” Randall said.

“The glass corridor accounted for about 24 per cent of strikes on campus and that went to zero and it’s been up for a year.”

Randall and a group of about 14 volunteers monitor for bird strikes three times a year for three weeks. Each session sees a team of two people walk

around the main part of campus in about an hour, a half hour after sunrise to try to beat the scavengers to the bird bodies. The team reports the dead birds and bunches of bird feathers because that indicates where a bird was eaten, and feathers stuck on windows are considered inconclusive but you know it hit the window.

There is also a community reporting program in place at the university where people who see a strike or the evidence of a strike can report it to Randall via email.

“That raises awareness, engages people and helps us increase our surveillance efforts,” Randall said.

“It’s been really inspiring to see a problem and then with the cooperation of the university and volunteers you actually manage to do something about it.”

The Show Home Lottery and 50-50 draws are the biggest annual fundraisers for the community-owned team. Proceeds provide more than half the Kings’ season operating budget to compete in

the B.C. Hockey League. Tickets can be purchased online. For more information, contact the Spruce Kings office at 250-564-1747, or e-mail Kyle at showhome@sprucekings.bc.ca.

This house at 2958 Links Dr., in the Aberdeen subdivision, valued at $865,000, could be yours if you buy the winning ticket in the Spruce Kings Show Home Lottery.

Happy Halloween, Prince George

Costumes, crafts, games and more at several local events

LEFT: Hunter Popovits, 17 months, is dressed up as a busy bee to visit the Halloween Festival at the Northern Sports Centre Saturday with Latisha Banotra.

BELOW LEFT: Charlotte Nice, 5, (“Sully”), her father Mike (“Mike”), little sister Kassie, 7 months (“Boo”) and mother Jessica (“Celia”) win the family costume award while dressed as the characters from Monsters Inc. at the Halloween Festival at the Northern Sports Centre Halloween Festival

BELOW RIGHT: Melina Berntes, 6, and Aleakie Ntapas concentrated in making their jelly fish just right while enjoying the available crafts as they visited the Pumpkin Express at the Central BC Railway and Forestry Sunday.

CITIZEN PHOTOS BY CHUCK NISBETT

The spooky season is definitely upon us

ABOVE: Waylin Stafford, 2, doesn’t seem to mind his spooky sidekick as he takes a turn at the wheel of a kid-sized locomotive during Pumpkin Express at the Central BC Railway and Forestry Sunday.

LEFT: Violet and Emma, both 4, take the time for their own dance party at the Halloween Festival at the Northern Sports Centre Saturday.

BELOW: Paisley Nelson (left), Reese Hamelin and Kayla McNeil, all 20, demonstrate that it isn’t just the smaller ghouls and goblins who can enjoy the Halloween Festival.

Celebrating 15 years at Gateway Lodge

Darrell Wolfe smiles as his wife Gail feeds him cake to celebrate his 15th anniversary at the Gateway Lodge Longterm Care facility Monday, Oct. 21. He has been a quadriplegic for 20 years after a four-wheeler accident. Wolfe is the last of the first group of people to move into the long-term care building of the Gateway facility after it opened in 2009. An avid Toronto Maple Leafs fan, he is able to take in games and be a part in other activities at Gateway.

Winter access rules are now in effect for some city parks

CITIZEN STAFF

The City of Prince George is set to close several parks and implement restrictions at others as winter approaches.

The parks department announced that various amenities will be shut down at the end of October, with vehicle access to some parks suspended until spring.

Vehicle access closures:

Carrie Jane Gray Park and Connaught Hill Park was closed to vehicle access on the evening of Wednesday, Oct. 30, reopening in spring.

Nechako Riverside Park will close following the first significant snowfall, with its parking lot remaining unplowed throughout winter.

The Jumpstart Courts at Carrie Jane Gray Park will also close after the first significant snowfall and will remain closed until spring.

Washroom closures:

Road access to Connaught Hill Park is now closed for the winter. Other changes are in effect at some city facilities.

The washrooms at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park (near 17th Avenue and The Exploration Place), Duchess Park (playground washroom), and Carrie Jane Gray Park (beach volleyball courts) all closed Wednesday.

Outhouse closures:

Outhouses at Connaught Hill Park, Rainbow Park, and Nechako Riverside

Park closed Wednesday, reopening in spring.

Drinking fountain closures: Several drinking fountains have already been winterized to prevent freezing, including those at Masich Place Stadium, Jumpstart/Rotary Skate Park, and various parks throughout the city.

Masich Place Stadium: The track at

Masich Place Stadium closed for public walking on Wednesday, though it will remain available for scheduled events such as football and soccer until the last event, after which the stadium will be winterized.

Indoor walking: For residents looking to stay active, the CN Centre’s indoor walking program has resumed.

Throwback Thursday: Week of October 31

Nov. 1, 1983: Leanne Matson (left) and Terra MacKinnon from the Westwood area turned into Martians for Halloween. Other events around the city included parties and fireworks.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVE MILNE

Nov. 1, 2010:

Nov. 1, 1997: Trick-or-treaters get a shocking welcome at the Coole home on Halloween night. Amber Maguire, left, and Jocelyn Stacy, right, were operating on Danya Coole just inside the front door. No candies were given out until Danya had let loose with a good scream or two.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVE MILNE

Nov. 1, 1968: Trickor-treaters swarmed Prince George Thursday night and among them were Elaine Dery, 7, at top, and sisters Michelle, 2 ½, and Julie, 4.

FILE PHOTO BY PETER

CITIZEN

DUFFY

Aurora Daykin, 3, Johnathan Fotos. 2 ½, Brooklyn Colbert, 5, Alexia Peierson, 3, and Ryan Colbert, 3, enjoy the Halloween Spooktacular at the Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVID MAH

The 49th Studio Fair is all set to go Friday to Sunday

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

The 49th annual Studio Fair showcasing more than 300 of Canada’s best artisans takes place Friday, Nov. 1 to Sunday, Nov. 3 at CN Centre.

There are so many opportunities to explore one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items, delectable gourmet food, luxurious soaps and candles, unique and fashionable clothing and accessories, handcrafted home décor, a whole host of finely crafted pottery items and wood craft, heirloom quality books and toys.

“We’re very excited this is our 49th Studio Fair,” said Lisa Redpath, program manager at the Community Arts Council of Prince George & District.

“We’re extremely grateful that we can still deliver this amazing show and welcome all of these phenomenal creators into our community. We’re ready to celebrate our 50th next year and best success is when people come

and enjoy and they see something they want for themselves or as a gift and they run into an old friend they haven’t seen in a while – art isn’t just a tangible thing. It has a sense of community behind it. And when you find that handmade art piece, you’ve found a treasure. And with everything going on in the world at least we can hold on to something creative and filled with beauty. There’s a sparkle to this show.”

It isn’t just about the Christmas season, Redpath added.

“It’s the energy and the vibrance of our community,” she added. “Every vendor that comes to this event from out of town always declares it as their favourite because of the people of Prince George and we here at Studio 2880, at the Community Arts Council, get to deliver that every year and I am so grateful this is my 15th Studio Fair and I look forward to driving that train right to the 50th and celebrate in a big way.”

There are many local artisans and

community groups that will be part of the event as well thanks to the support of the Community Arts Council.

“This is perfect for their individual fundraising, for their ticket sales promotion for upcoming events and we’re always so happy to do this for them,” Redpath said. “Our priority is to make sure the guilds and organizations are healthy around us because that benefits everyone.”

Local groups and guilds who will be in attendance include Girl Guides, PG Judo Club, Legion 43 with their poppy campaign, Share Hope, Method Dance, Miracle Theatre, Quilters Guild, Federation of Canadian Artists, Artists Co-Op, Prince George Potters, Prince George Woodturners, Prince George Hospice, Coldsnap Music Festival, Theatre NorthWest, Prince George Symphony, Enchainement Dance Centre and the BCNE. The local guilds and groups will be located at the entrance of Studio Fair.

“We couldn’t do this without them,”

Redpath said. “They bring the community and it’s just a beautiful way to enter our event.”

This is the Community Arts Council of Prince George & District’s major fundraising event and the entry fee to the fair goes directly to the non-profit organization to support local artisans and organizations. The local arts council is the umbrella organization for 245 members, including professional and emerging artists, performers, ensembles, artisan guilds and cultural organizations, all living and working in an area covering more than 51,000 square kilometres.

The heart of the arts council has been at Studio 2880 since 1976. These facilities have become a destination for people who wish to purchase locally created artworks, and access and benefit from the unique educational programs and services offered there. Entry into Studio Fair at CN Centre is a flat fee of $10 that gets patrons through the door all weekend long.

The 49th annual Studio Fair with more than 300 vendors at CN Centre is set for Nov. 1 to 3.

Hold My Beer is a musical tasting of local libations

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Hold My Beer isn’t just the callout by Canadian musician Aaron Pritchett while he kisses your girlfriend.

It’s not even the callout traditionally known to be the warning to friends when you’re about to do something stupid.

It’s the siren song of Prince George choir Nove Voce’s latest fundraiser for a lot of fun involving a variety of songs about friends and parties and even one locally created song about beer alongside an opportunity to taste test flights of beer crafted by local microbreweries.

The special event is held at Knox Performance Centre in downtown Prince George where a ticket gets you a seat at a shared table including three rounds of craft beer from Trench Brewing, CrossRoads Brewing and Deadfall Brewing.

“This will be an intimate concert with space for about 100 and everybody will

get samples of nine different beers for three local brewing companies,” Robin Norman, choir director of Nove Voce, said.

“And we’ve got some door prizes from Pacific Western Brewing and then we’ve got fun, silly songs in between tastings to cleanse your palette.”

Nove Voce choir member Kathy Pereira even went as far as to write a beer madrigal.

“She wrote a song all about beer for us,” Norman said. “It’s fun because we picked some silly songs and we got some really great drinking songs from the Irish Rovers and The Proclaimers and other Irish folk songs and all of it is interspersed with some beer trivia and beer tasting and that is essentially the night.”

There will be table snacks to munch on as well.

“I am so impressed how our local independent breweries continually win awards,” Norman said.

“I’ve followed Deadfall Brewery for a while now and then came across a

person who had never heard of them before so if you’re a person who wants to get passed their regular this is a really good chance for you to see what Prince George breweries are doing and what they have to offer because it’s quite spectacular right now.”

This is the opportunity to have a flight tasting of local beers to see what these three breweries are offering, Norman added.

Nove Voce is a multi-award winning 22-member choir that has achieved international acclaim.

Because of that, they have been invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York next summer during an event featuring all-Canadian women’s choirs showcasing all-Canadian women-created music.

“So Hold My Beer is our fundraiser to help get us there,” Norman explained.

This isn’t a competition but rather a presentation where Kelly Walsh from the Maritimes was invited to conduct the program.

She invited choirs from across Canada to participate in the showcase, and Nove Voce was included in that invitation, Norman said.

“We said yes and so we’re going to go to New York from June 26 to 29 and sing at Carnegie Hall and do the thing,” Norman said.

“At Hold My Beer we’ll actually be doing a piece that was written for us by Canadian composer Tracy Wong, which is a mash up of Alanis Morissette songs All I Really Want and You Oughta Know and Tracy arranged that for us and she’ll be one of the composers represented in New York with a piece we’ve done several times here called Singkap Siaga. So come have fun with some great music and discover new beer from local breweries.”

Hold My Beer goes Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at Knox Performance Centre, 1448 Fifth Ave.

The event is limited to 19+ and only 100 tickets are available.

Tickets are $50 each at www.

eventbrite.ca/e/hold-my-beer-tickets.

PHILOMENA HUGHES PHOTO

Fun-loving Nove Voce, International award-winning Prince George choir, is hosting a fundraiser as they head to Carnegie Hall to perform. Hold My Beer at Knox Performance Centre on Nov. 2 features the choir’s music and taste testing of flights of beer from local microbreweries.

What do you do if you don’t have a family doctor?

The province has a process in place for people who don’t have family doctors.

CITIZEN STAFF

If you’re in British Columbia and looking for a family doctor or nurse practitioner, you can register for the Health Connect Registry.

Establishing a strong, long-term relationship with a primary care provider is essential for you and your family’s health, the health ministry advises.

To find a health-care provider, you’ll first have to register.

Register

By registering, you’ll be added to the list of individuals seeking a family doctor or nurse practitioner in your community.

The registration process takes under five minutes. To register, you will need:

• Your Personal Health Number (PHN), located on your BC Services Card or BC Driver’s Licence

• Your home address

• Email address and phone number

To better match you with a provider, you can share any recent changes to your health during registration. If you registered before mid-April 2024, you’ll receive an invitation via phone or email to answer additional health questions.

Other languages

To register for the Health Connect Registry in a language other than English, call 811. Translation services are available in over 130 languages.

After dialing 811, you’ll speak with an

English-speaking health service navigator. Simply mention your preferred language (e.g., “Punjabi”), and an interpreter will join the call.

Who should register

Anyone in B.C. needing a family doctor or nurse practitioner can register, including yourself and your family members. You may also register on behalf of someone in your care, such as a health care provider or social worker.

If you already have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, there’s no need to register.

Waitlists

Waitlists at B.C. clinics are transitioning to the Health Connect Registry. If you’re currently on a waitlist, you can choose to register now or wait to be contacted about your registration. Your original waitlist date will remain unchanged.

If you registered before July 2023

If you registered for the Health Connect Registry before July 2023, you do not need to re-register, as you are already on the list. You will be contacted when a family doctor or nurse practitioner becomes available.

After you register

When a family doctor or nurse practitioner is available in your area, your community team will reach out to you. They may also contact you via phone or email for more information or to provide healthcare support while you wait. You can access healthcare services in your community by visiting an Urgent and Primary Care Centre, a walk-in clinic, or your local pharmacy.

Vaccines for flu, COVID-19 now at pharmacies, clinics

CITIZEN STAFF

Updated vaccines that protect against the latest influenza strains and COVID19 variants circulating are available for people in Prince George to help protect families, communities and the healthcare system.

Invitations for immunizations for priority populations began Oct. 8, 2024.

The priority populations include people most at risk of severe illness and complications, such as seniors 65 and older, residents in long-term care facilities, people with chronic health conditions (e.g., cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc.) and health-care workers. People will receive notifications until early November.

People will be able to receive

influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, if they want.

Vaccines are available in more than 1,300 participating pharmacies, health-authority clinics and some primary-care providers’ offices throughout the province.

People can call 1-833-838-2323 if they have questions or need help booking. The vaccines remain free and

are available for all B.C. residents six months and older, including enhanced influenza vaccines for seniors.

Health Canada has approved updated mRNA vaccines targeting the KP.2 COVID-19 subvariant. These vaccines are approved for use for people six months and older, and are available as part of B.C.’s fall and winter respiratory illness vaccine program.

BC MINISTRY OF HEALTH PHOTO

Fundraising calendar filled with art from Rick Mintz

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

For years Rick Mintz, local artist, has put his talents to good use.

In 2019, Mintz started creating calendars by putting a collection of his paintings together to raise money for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. Themes have always been based in nature and this year is no different with the 2025 calendar featuring scenes from each Canadian province and the Territories.

Most of his art is done with reference to photographs he and his friends have taken over the years.

This year there is one special piece of artwork that is not his and it is the first time he has included someone else’s work in one of the calendars.

“The Atlantic puffin, a symbol of Newfoundland, was painted by my late sister-in-law Nicki Johnson,” Mintz said. “I thought I would put this in the calendar to honour her.”

Mintz has fundraised for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation for years and it started with a golf tournament organized by the Prince George Community for Kids organization in which he was a member.

“When COVID hit it stopped the golf tournament and after the pandemic we didn’t get the volunteers back,” Mintz said.

He knew he had to switch gears so he started thinking of unique ways to fundraise on his own.

“I was already making calendars for my family and friends using my pictures so I thought that might be a good idea and it’s kind of fun,” Mintz said.

“The first year I sold 175 and I was shocked I could sell that many calendars.”

Sales dipped to 158 in 2021 because of the restrictions put in place to protect people from the coronavirus prevented him from going out into the community to sell them.

“But then I got invited to Studio Fair for free in 2022 because I am fundraising for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation,” Mintz said. “I sold 278 that year. Then 310 in 2023 and then last year 403.”

Foundation.

Mintz puts his time into attending other craft fairs as well and last year attended six to help boost sales for the good cause. There are more appearances on his schedule for this season of craft fairs.

He’s out and about every weekend for the next several weeks because he knows the BC Children’s Hospital is such an important service provided to all the children in the province at a most vulnerable time in their lives.

“There were more than 130,000 children at BC Children’s Hospital last year,” Mintz said. “And more than 4,000 children came from Northern Health.”

The calendar is always for sale at Studio 2880 and at Omineca Arts Centre and the Central Interior Railway and Forestry Museum.

Along with his calendars for sale for $20 each, Mintz also puts the original paintings up for sale to add to the total donated. So far Mintz has donated more than $16,000 to BC Children’s Hospital.

For more information and to view Mintz’s artwork visit www.ramart.ca or reach out to him at rmintz@shaw.ca.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

Rick Mintz, Prince George artist, has put together a 2025 calendar filled with his artwork as a fundraiser for the BC Children’s Hospital

RICK MINTZ PAINTING

One of Rick Mintz’s works is called Winter in the Cariboo (2022).

Local Sports Siblings chase World University Games biathlon berths

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Liam Sinclair and his sister Payton are taking aim at a common goal as they set their sights for the new biathlon season.

The two UNBC students will be in Canmore, Alta., Nov. 5-9, for the FISU World University Games Canadian team trials. If they make the cut they’ll be going to Italy for the Games, Jan. 13-23, to race on the course to be used for the 2026 Olympics.

The Sinclair siblings, aided by their father Aaron and mother Stacey, who have been fixtures monitoring their training sessions at Otway Nordic Centre, both feel in the best physical shape of their lives to start the season.

“It’s very exciting to have an opportunity to go to in the University Games in Torino, Italy, it would be very cool to compete in an Olympic-level course, I’ll do my best and hopefully qualify,” said Liam Sinclair, 19, a second-year biology student at UNBC, while taking a break in his interval training at the Otway range.

“It’s great to have (Payton) here, she pushed me in more ways than I can imagine and definitely drags me out of bed on those hard mornings and gets me out here.”

Only the top six males and top six female biathletes will make the Canadian team.

Caledonia club cross-country skier Jacqui Benson was the most recent Prince George athlete to compete as a skier in the International University Sports Federation (FISU), formerly known as Universiade. Benson raced at the 22207 Universiade in Pragelato, Italy.

“We’ve been training for so long for this so I’m pretty fired up, ready to go,” said Payton, a first-year chemistry student. “We’ve been training together all summer, really trying to push each other as much as we can. Of course (Liam) is faster than me but I still try to chase him down every chance I get.”

year-round.”

As tantalizing as it has been for the city’s young athletes to get on roller skis and give the course a try, they’ve been told they have to stay off it to give the asphalt surface time to harden so it won’t get damaged by the tips of their poles

Former Olympian Tuppy Hoehn (nee Collard), who coaches the Caledonia biathlon team with Ali Cadell, says Otway’s facilities for skiing and biathlon are world-class. She knows what’s she’s talking about, having competed in the 1992 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan, after several years on the World Cup circuit.

Payton, 18, says her brother is now more accurate on the shooting range, but it wasn’t always that way. In the 10 years they’ve been competing as members of the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club she’s got the overall edge when they compare their race scores.

“Right now he’s probably better, but if you look at past years, I’ve got him,” she said.

“We started biathlon at the same time. He did join a year later than he could have so he could wait for me. He’s a good brother.”

Payton went through the national team trials last year and feels much more comfortable going back to Canmore this year.

“This year I know how the system works, know the nerves of racing alongside the national team and not let them freak me out as much.”

Liam raced in Canmore four times last season and is familiar with the trails. He lived and trained at the Sovereign Lake

Nordic Club near Vernon, where they were skiing in late October with the early snow in the mountains. Otway has snow-making equipment in place and with the smooth new pavement it won’t take much to get an early base on the trails that were paved a couple weeks ago.

The Caledonia club just completed a project to build a new network of paved trails that form a three-kilometre loop that leads into the stadium area. There’s also a solid concrete shooting wall to replace the concrete blocks that used to be there. Ski racers will no longer have to go to the BCR Industrial Site and Willowcale Road for their off-season roller ski training.

“It’s fantastic, it’s been a dream to have a roller ski course out here,” said Liam. “I’m looking forward to trying it. It will make a huge difference to those us who are training, especially at a high level. We’ll be able to continue to do our sport and work on our technique

“It basically puts us up there with the world’s best facilities, it’s amazing,” said Hoehn. “It just allows us to be able to train at a high level year-round. We’re already a world-class winter facility but in the summer this was a big gap for us, especially in biathlon, because we couldn’t roller ski on site. The more race-specific training you can do throughout the year, the better prepared you are going into the season.

“Our facility rivals any other in Europe.”

The Canmore races, which include two sprints and a pursuit, will also determine Canada’s teams for the World Cup and IBU Cup circuits.

Emily Dickson of Burns Lake, a 2020 Olympian, and national development team member Moira Green of Prince George are also slated to compete in the trials.

The Caledonia club will host the youth/junior world  championships trials, Jan. 3-7 at Otway. The other big event for the Sinclairs is the national biathlon championships in Valcartier, Que. in March.

The FISU cross-country skiing Canadian team trials are in Vernon, Dec. 6-7.

Caledonia athletes Ben Gadd, Jasper Kohut, Odin Witso and Nicholas Veeken will be there trying to make the Canadian team.

CITIZEN PHOTOS BY TED CLARKE

Liam and Payton Sinclair are getting ready for the FISU University Games biathlon team trial races in Canmore, Nov. 5-9.

Spruce Kings volunteer was devoted to the team

Kyle Tschampa is remembered in the local sports community as being a good judge of talent

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Kyle Tschampa’s knowledge of sports ran deep and he created a job for himself in junior hockey as a volunteer statistician with the Prince George Spruce Kings.

That started in 2002 and from then on it didn’t matter if it was scrimmage or a league game, he was there to watch the players closely and report back to the coaching staff with his take on what they were doing on the ice, and he was a good judge of talent. More often than not, the players who made the final cut were the ones Kyle thought deserved roster spots.

Eventually he found other ways to contribute on Spruce Kings’ game nights, volunteering as an usher who loved to strike up a conversation. Positive and upbeat, he was always curious about what you thought of certain players or how the boys on the ice were playing.

Never shy about joining a discussion with the fans, decked out in his blue and red Kings jersey, he never missed a game. Kyle loved the Spruce Kings, Vancouver Canucks and BC Lions and once he found out I was Calgary guy, he could never resist taking shots at the Flames or Stampeders, especially when his teams were trouncing them on the scoreboard. If there was a Lions’ game on TV he always looked forward to inviting the family over for Chinese food. Kyle came from a solid upbringing in Prince George that taught him merits of being polite, respectful and courteous, lessons he learned well from his mom Carol, father Joe, sister Kristin and brother Brett.

Kyle got on well with his younger siblings and never held back showing his love for his nieces and nephews. He was the best uncle.

At age 10 he was diagnosed with a rare genetic syndrome that he refused to let hold him back. He remained high-functioning and went to regular classes with the other school kids at

Vanway Elementary and College Heights

Secondary and graduated in 2002.

“We never raised him as if he had any issues,” said Joe.

“He was brought up about as normally as you could, and I think that really helped him in later years. He made us pretty proud.”

Said Carol: “We never let him make excuses for anything, he had the same consequences as our other kids; they just had to be accountable

for their actions.”

Kyle outweighed and outreached most of his minor hockey opponents by large margins. As an adult, his six-footsix, 320-pound frame packed strength that came in awful handy when he was hauling fresh meat on a big-game hunt or reeling in a whopper on his fishing line.

His dad was a rep team hockey coach and the kids got started early in life balancing on blades and playing soccer.

“For a big guy that was clumsy he had a pretty good set of hands,” said Joe. “He would just stand in front and bury them. He kind of reminded me of Phil Esposito because nobody could move him.”

Participating in sports gave Kyle a sense of belonging and responsibility and the social aspect of working towards a common goal. He served as a goal judge behind the net and opened the gate at the penalty box and was part of the Spruce Kings’ team for more than 20 years.

“He started doing stats when he was in high school and Kyle volunteered for us for decades, and did a great job, he was here for every game, always a smiling face, always happy to see everyone and greet everyone,” said Spruce Kings general manager Mike Hawes.

“He used to come to every spring camp, every training camp and he’d assess the players and he was really invested in the organization. He’d always give me his list of guys after every spring camp scrimmage and main camp scrimmage and I always appreciated his input. It just shows he really cared about the organization. He was an avid sports fan and we’re certainly going to miss him. He contributed in many ways.”

Kyle was just two years old when he went off hunting with his dad on their first trip. Hawes says he always looked forward to hearing about Kyle’s hunting experiences and he was always willing to share the bounty, leaving the Spruce Kings office well-stocked with pepperoni they had made.

“He really loved the outdoors, he was the best hunting partner because there was never a complaint, all he’d do is get out there and have a good time, it was pretty fun,” said Joe.

On Sept. 28, Kyle lost his battle with myelodysplastic syndrome, a form of bone marrow cancer, and he died at Prince George Rotary Hospice House, a month after his 40th birthday.

Kyle Tschampa was a familiar face around the hockey rink at Kopar Memorial Arena as a longtime Prince George Spruce Kings volunteer until his death at age 40 of cancer on Sept. 28.

A high-performance 30 years of sports

Engage Sport North (ESN) celebrated 30 years providing high-performance sport education and training to athletes in Northern BC and the Sport BC Community Sport Hero Awards held at Prince George Convention and Civic Centre Thursday, Oct. 24.  Award recipients were:

• Ben Berland, ice hockey

• Vicki Lynn Bobbie, gymnastics

• Aaron Flett, ice hockey

• Warren & Chantelle Grafton, karate

• Katie Gordon, rugby

• Vonda Hofferd, KidSport Prince George

• Emily Holmes, basketball

• Dennis McCarthy, wrestling

• Julia Shaddick, figure skating

• Keith Sullivan, ringette

• Elena Thomas, track and field

TOP: The recipients of Sport BC’s Community Sport Hero Awards pose for a group picture following the event at the Prince George Convention and Civic Centre Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024.

BELOW, LEFT: Pippa Earl (rock climbing), Isla Cadell (Biathlon) and Kennedy Moore (synchronized swimming) are 16-year-old Duchess Park students enrolled in the Canadian Sport School Prince George at the Charles Jago Northern Sports Centre at UNBC.

BELOW, RIGHT: Joel Ewert talks about his path to the Paralympics and the role Engage Sports North played in his achievements.

Family able to take Kyle Tschampa to one last Lions game

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

A November 2023 physical exam detected cancer in his blood and his terminal condition was confirmed by a specialist in Vancouver. It just so happened that night there was a Canucks-Oilers game at Rogers Arena and Kyle of course knew about it.

“I got tickets that day and didn’t tell Kyle and after we had the chat with the doctor we were all pretty bummed out - that’s an understatement - and Kyle goes, “It would be pretty nice to go to the hockey game.”

“I said I’ve already got tickets and that changed the mood in the room, because

it was pretty doomy and gloomy. They gave him a year, plus or minus and he made it 10 months.”

In August, Joe decided to take the family to the Lions-Bombers game in Vancouver. At that time Kyle’s energy levels were low and he was getting blood transfusions at the cancer clinic in Prince George.

The nurses took a shine to him and when one of them found out he was going to the game they arranged with the doctor to have his transfusion schedule changed so he would receive one unit of blood on Monday and two on Friday, just before he left for Vancouver.

Unsure how steady Kyle would be on his feet, Joe phoned the Lions to ask if they had a wheelchair available and at one point in the conversation broke down with emotion speaking about his son.

The man he was talking to, Massimo Possolo, told him not to worry, the Lions would take care of them and he comped them five game tickets. Former Prince George Cougar captain Nick Drazenovic knew somebody on the team and they arranged for Kyle to go down to field level during the game.

“The whole experience there was incredibly good,” said Joe.

“We went sockeye fishing at Babine

Lake for his 40th birthday (Aug. 29)  and that was a pretty special time for all of us. Of course Kyle caught the biggest one, it was probably eight pounds.”

The capper of that trip was Joe’s niece got in touch with outdoorsman Jim Shockey, whose popular big-game hunting TV shows were gold to Kyle. Shockey found out Kyle didn’t have long to live and sent him a personal birthday video message that Kyle cherished the rest of his life.

A celebration of Kyle’s life was held at the Hart Pioneer Centre Oct. 20. The family asked that any donations be given to the BC Cancer Centre for the North.

In golf, curling and business, Sherba took it to the top

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

You don’t have to be lucky to be good, but there’s no arguing that when it came to swinging a golf club Pete Sherba was extremely fortuitous.

How else do you explain how a guy can sink 18 of his tee shots over the course of a lifetime into the hole with one swing?

It took 50-plus years of chipping away at his favourite pastime to get that many holes-in-one from the time he first started golfing at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club. He got his first in 1968 and well into his 80s Sherba was still racking up aces.

“I don’t play for a hole-in-one, I’m just lucky - a lot of pros don’t get a lot of holes-in-one,” Sherba told Citizen reporter Andrea Johnson in September 2015 after he plunked his ball in the hole for his 17th career ace on the fifth hole at PGGCC during the Farr-WIC tournament.

That 17th hole shot came with a $10,000 payoff. He donated $4,000 of it to the PG Community Foundation and he also bought a round for everyone in the clubhouse.

He’s still the only golfer to ace all five of the Par 3 holes at the PG course.

The last one for Sherba came on Feb. 18, 2018 when he was 84, at his winter home in Mesa, Ariz., and that comes with a funny story.

Sherba’s eyesight faded considerably over the last 10 years of his life and he was taking aim at the pin of an adjacent hole when his playing partners noticed it and corrected him just before he let go with his club.

“He was teeing off and it was 174 yards to the hole and he was at a 45 degree angle away at a total different green and buddies are going, ‘What are you doing?’” said Sherba’s son Scott.

“So he said, ‘Line me up.’ So they told him, ‘Shuffle more to the right, a little more to the right, there you go,’ and he hits it and that was his 18th hole-in-one and he never got to see it. It was all his friends that saw it and they were cheering him on.”

Sherba died Oct. 7, just 11 days shy of his 90th birthday, a few years after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Before he got into golf, curling was Sherba’s game and he took it right to the top.

Playing third for Kevin Smale, with Bob McDonald at second and Pat Carr sweeping lead broom, he helped put Prince George on the map at the 1969 Macdonald Brier in Oshawa, Ont. Back then there were no playoffs unless there was a tie for top spot. Smale and his crew were undefeated when they came up against the Alberta rink skipped by Ron Northcott of Calgary in the ninth draw and BC lost 9-8, their only loss of the round-robin tournament.

Northcott finished 10-0 to defend his title. BC went 9-1. Only one other team had lost just one game and failed to win the Canadian men’s championship.

occasionally with his son Scott and Doug Engstrom Sr. and they entered a few Kelly Cups together in the late ‘80s and once got to the Interior finals, but eventually Sherba’s corn broom found a permanent place in the closet.

So what was it that made him such a good curler?

“He actually had the ability to focus and he could shut everything else in the world off,” said Scott Sherba. “I had lots of guys tell me that when he was there, he was there to play. He had the mind for sports and business, and that does translate. You’ve got to be focused.

“He really enjoyed the game and my dad always had a competitive streak in him. He was always fun to play with, it was always good camaraderie on and off the ice. He liked to have a lot of fun. He was a pretty happy fellow and he liked to socialize and enjoy people’s company.”

1969 Brier. Sherba, 34 at the time, was selected as the all-star third of the Brier and the Prince George team came home to a heroes’ reception.

A crowd of about 1,000 met their plane on the airport tarmac and greeted them with a bagpipers welcome.

Back then curling was a bigger deal and they were instant celebrities. They rode to city hall with their wives in four open convertibles for a mayor’s reception and for the next two weeks their calendars were full with public appearances and luncheons in their honour.

Dozens of competitive men’s teams battled annually for the provincial title and it became harder for Sherba to stay on top.

His team won the BC crown again in 1971 and finished fifth at the Brier that year, but with his curling skills on a downward slide, Sherba shifted his focus more to family life and running his electrical business. He still curled

Sherba was born and raised in Vernon, where his family had an orchard. Once he was done grade school in the late ‘50s he left for north central BC and a job with BC Hydro. He and his brother-in-law Vic Litnosky were working as electrical contractors when they formed Northway Industrial Electric, based in Burns Lake, Fort Nelson and Prince George.

The city was in the midst of the pulp mill boom in the mid ‘60s and Sherba’s saw an opportunity to join forces with his brother Bill and they started Shoppers Wholesale Foods to supply local restaurants, and their Shoppers Food Mart grocery chain expanded with stores in Prince George, Vanderhoof, Fort St. John and Fraser Lake.

They also cornered the market on convenience stores, buying up some of the high-traffic locations to try to keep 7-Eleven and Mac’s from moving into the city.

They called their corner stores AM-PM and eventually the American chain that had already trademarked the name sent them a letter, which prompted a name change to Mr. G’s. At one time they operated 12 Mr. G’s.

HANDOUT PHOTO

Pete Sherba as he appeared in 1977 when he was president of the Prince George Construction Association.

Going for high school gridiron glory

CHSS Cougars player Keaden Stampflee (No. 11) braces for the tackle as the NVSS Vikings’ Dexter Malo (No. 22) and Jacob Sarigumba (No. 33) close in on Friday, Oct. 25 at Masich Place Stadium. College Heights and Nechako Valley duked it out to a 19-14 Cougars win in a matchup that will be repeated in the PG Bowl on Friday, Nov. 1 with the two teams topping the standings in the Senior Varsity division over Shas Ti Kelly Road. The three teams are the only members of the AA North division with PGSS and Duchess Park not fielding teams this season. College Heights has won both meetings with Nechako Valley this season, with the gap between the teams closing considerably from their first exhibiton meeting where the result was a 41-0 win for the Prince George team.

Sherba family business has close to 300 employees

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Sherba moved on to Lakewood Electric around the time it became a union shop in the ‘70s and in 1991 he started Westcana Electric with his oldest son, Pete Jr. Before long it was a family business with Sherba’s nephew Mike Gair working in the shop, Pete’s sister, BJ Gair managing the office and his youngest son Scott, who joined up as a contractor.

They built one of the largest electrical contracting companies in the province. Now with close to 300 employees, Westcana has offices in Prince George, Terrace, Fort St. John, Kamloops and Kelowna.

Sherba was active in the Rotary Club, raising money for community projects and in the mid-70s he served as president and was a board member of the Prince George Construction Association.

He loved the outdoors and was big on fishing, hunting and snowmobiling and

used the cabin he built on Cluculz Lake as his base. He once raced his sled 300 miles in the Smithers-to-Prince George race in 1973 and finished ninth out of 91 entrants.

He and his wife of 63 years, Sylvia, spent a good chunk of their winters at their place in Mesa and that was a popular retreat for their three kids – Terri, Pete Jr. and Scott, and their families.

“I was fortunate to have him in my life,” said Scott. “Sadly enough, I didn’t just lose a father, I lost a best friend.

“Up until COVID, Dad still came to work every day. In his mid-80 he was coming in every day, and that abruptly stopped when we were worried about his health and I think that was very sad for him. He enjoyed coming to work and having a coffee and chatting with the employees.”

Sherba was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery in private family service on Oct. 18 and that was followed two days later by celebration of life that packed the PGGCC.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The Kevin Smale rink, with Pete Sherba on the right, gets in a workout after two weeks of meeting and greeting the Prince George public. For their surprising second-place finish at the Brier, the team received a free membership at Prince George Health Spa and they were getting starting their training for another run at the Canadian men’s curling championship.

Life Events

Peter Dasilva,62, passed away peacefully surrounded by his spouse and their adult children.

Peter’s zest for life was large and love for family profound. He leaves behind, his wife Joyce, three sons, two daughters, seven grandkids & his mother Doris, sister Sandra, brother Alan. Peter is predeceased by his father Edwin.

Peter spent a 38-year career working for Northwood Pulp/Canfor. In 2019, he retired, however chose to maintain an active lifestyle. Moreso, Peter was an avid gym goer; he fished; swam and learned to free dive. He enjoyed creating “Pete’s projects” and could often be seen walking his favorite canine companion, Cruz.

Peter was a foodie, and a stylish dresser, but mostly a friend to all. When he was in public, he would usually stop to chat, to someone he just happened to know. His community connection was vast.

During the last few months of Peter’s life, he ensured that his relationship with family and friends remained strong and meaningful. Peter will be truly missed.

A service will be held at St. Mary’s Church on November 1rst @3:30 PM - 1088 Gillett St. A funeral reception to follow@5 PM - 556 N. Nechako Rd.Upstairs.

Donations: North Cariboo SPCA - Prince George BC

“As is a tale, so is a life, not how long it is, but how

19 June 1949 - 25 October 2017

Mike, I’ll always love you. Wishing there was another day to hear you say, “I know that.”

Missing you.

Love, Helen

Pavo Pilcik

August 20, 1930 – September 28, 2024

It is with great sadness that I share the passing of our beloved father Pavo Pilcik, who passed away peacefully at the age of 94.

Pavo was predeceased by his wife Marija Pilcik.

He will be missed by his sons Zdravko (Luisa) and Ivan (Tracey), grandchildren Jennifer (Johannes), Daniel, Jeremy, Alex (Kendra), Lincoln and great-grandchildren Veronica, Oliver, and Hayden.

Pavo was born in Bresnica, Croatia and immigrated to Canada in 1957.

Pavo held many titles in his life: from entrepreneur, cook, storyteller, to his favourite, which was being a father and grandfather.

We, his family, extend our appreciation for the respect and love shown in Gale’s memory. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the heartfelt messages we have received and the tributes made in his honour. Thank you to everyone who travelled near and far to be at his service, and to those we did not have a chance to personally greet, please know that we felt your presence. We would also like to thank our extended family for your unwavering support during his illness, words cannot express our gratitude.

From the Gale Russell family.

Van

March 19, 1933 – October 19, 2024

Joe Van Kessel “Chef”, formerly of the Netherlands, passed away in Prince George on October 19, 2024 at the age of 91.

Joe was predeceased by his spouse Rita Van Kessel (also known as Victoria Dekker) and his long-time companion Brigette Rittner.

He is survived by his children Ralph Van Kessel (Marni), Cindy Van Kessel (Paul), Yvonne Van Kessel (Eric), 4 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Assman’s Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated.

Joe

Kessel

Peter Dasilva

Gale Russell

Michael Leonard Moore

Pat Concord

December 31, 1944 - August 27, 2024

In memory of my better half, her parting words were: “I’ll close my eyes for a little while...while waiting to be reenergized.”

Her crowning achievement was keeping her husband content, she was happy taking care of him and being with him. Between them both they provided about 50 tons of food to needy persons for quite a few years, gratis, plus struggling in life’s endeavors, being rewarded with three children, six grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren.

The epitome of the evasive Raven Clan.

Percy Maskell

Percy Maskell passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

He is predeceased by his daughter, Sandy and his wife, Mabel.

Survived by children: Duncan (Donna), Rick (Susan), Tim (Bev), Elizabeth (Ken), and his grandchildren.

Percy and his family moved from Montreal to Salmon Valley, BC in the early 70’s. He remained there till his passing. Percy retired from BC Rail in 1997, then enjoyed spending his time with his horses.

He will be remembered for his love of horses, and telling stories.

A special thank you to: Irina, Doreen, Gerald and the Prince George Hospice for all of your kindness and care.

A small Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Ethel Mary Walkse

Ethel Mary Walske of Prince George BC, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family on October 7, 2024.

She is survived by her husband Jim, her children Julie (Gerald), Jim (Annette), and Ryan as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her daughter Wendy (George).

No service by request, in lieu of flowers please make a donation to PG Hospice or to a charity of your choice

Magdalene Pudlas

October 22, 1929 - October 22, 2024

With deep sadness we announce the passing of Magdalene Pudlas (Schmeling) on her 95th birthday.

Born in Warstein, Germany she made the journey to Canada in 1956 to pursue her nursing career. She met her loving husband Bernhard in Vancouver and the two eventually settled in Prince George. Magda came to know the Lord and enjoyed being a long-time member of the Evangelical Free Church where she helped with catering and kid’s clubs. Mom was a great baker and enjoyed “noch ein bisschen Kaffee und Kuchen friends over the years. She also took great pleasure in reading, painting and line dancing in her later years.

She is survived by her three loving children Phil (Arlene), Ruth (Paul) and Martin (Myrna). Her grandchildren Carly (Travis), Craig (Julie and newly born great grandson Bo), Christie (Tim), Jeff (Katie) and Hannah (Tyler).

A heartfelt thank you to good friends who assisted in so many ways and the people at the Fort George Manor where she lived independently up to her final days.

No service by Magdalene’s request.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Ness Lake Bible Camp.

Honouring those who have touched our lives

WOODLOT 218

Woodlot Licence Plan

Sorine Winther Holdings Ltd has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan for the ten-year period commencing in early 2025. The plan is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot consists of Schedule B lands in the vicinity of West Lake Rd. and Schedule A lands adjacent. In accordance with legislation this plan is available for public review and comment. The plan and detailed maps can be reviewed by appointment by calling 250-981-6430.

Written comments should be received by November 30, 2024.

NOTICE OF AGM

The Community Arts Council of Prince George &District announces that its annual general meeting will be held at Studio 2880 on Tuesday, November 19th at 12 noon. To confirm attendance please email executive@studio2880.com

STEEL STUD FRAMER

Steel stud framer for Prince George job on Bear Road, approximately 4 to 5 months

Max Flynn 949 Joan Cres Victoria BC 250-818-2217 maxflynn949@gmail.com

Public Notice: Forest Operations Map Review and Invitation for Comment.

In accordance with the Forest Range and Practices Act, Tse’ khene Timber Ltd. and Spectrum Resource Group invites the public to review its Forest Operations Maps (FOM ID: 1951) in the Mackenzie Natural Resource District. The FOM describes areas proposed for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years starting on December 1, 2024, and ending on November 30th, 2027. We welcome your comments and feedback during the review period starting October 31, 2024. Please submit your comments by November 30, 2024.

The map is accessible for review and comment submission online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects#publicNotices

Alternatively, in-person review and comments can be scheduled and completed at the following location during regular office hours (Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM): 1960 Robertson Road, Prince George, BC, V2N1X6

Comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or submitted via phone or email at:

1-250-564-0383; etorres@srg.ca

By JoAnn Derson

• If you run out of buttermilk, you can use an equal amount of yogurt, preferably nonsweetened, plain, but you can adjust the sugar in a recipe slightly if your yogurt is favorably flavored.

• Medication labels can fade, so when you get yours, put a piece of clear tape over the instructions. This way, you’ll always be able to read the instructions.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

• “During the holidays (the height of baking season for me), I keep a large plastic saltshaker filled with flour and a bit of dry rice. The rice helps the flour to shake out without getting clumped up, and I use it to dust cake pans, rolling pins, kneading boards, etc.” — W.F. in Canada

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

• When entertaining, keep cold drinks in a cooler away from the kitchen. This keeps the floor space free for the cooks.

• “One of the household cleaners I prefer comes in a spray bottle, and it’s on the expensive side. I make sure to get all of the liquid out by adding some regular glass marbles to the bottle. It displaces the liquid up, ensuring it finds the bottom of the sprayer’s suction tube.” — T.H. in Mississippi

• On Nov. 11, 1831, Nat Turner, an American slave and educated minister who believed that he’d been chosen by God to lead his people into freedom, was hanged in Jerusalem, Virginia, for leading a revolt with 75 followers through Southampton County, killing about 60 white people.

FLASHBACK #12345_20241028

• On Nov. 11, 1831, Nat Turner, an American slave and educated minister who believed that he’d been chosen by God to lead his people into freedom, was hanged in Jerusalem, Virginia, for leading a revolt with 75 followers through Southampton County, killing about 60 white people.

FOR RELEASE OCT. 28, 2024

• Soften brown sugar quickly by grating it on a fine hand grater. If you have a bit more time, add an apple to the container and seal tightly.

By Mick Harper

• “Stack pucks in the holes of a cardboard soda six-pack carrier. Tell your coach. And to keep them bouncy, store them in your freezer (as long as your mom says it’s OK).” — via e-mail

• Keep the fog off your glasses by

• On Nov. 12, 1969, investigative journalist Seymour Hersh revealed the extent of the U.S. Army’s charges against 1st Lt. William L. Calley at My Lai, Vietnam, in a cable picked up by more than 30 newspapers, saying that “The Army says he [Calley] deliberately murdered at least 109 Vietnamese civilians during a search-and-destroy mission in March 1968, in a Viet Cong stronghold known as ‘Pinkville.’”

1. Which artist released an album titled “Tea for the Tillerman”?

2. Which artist was the first to release “You’re No Good”?

3. The Swinging Blue Jeans only charted once. What was the song?

4. Which trio released “I’m So Glad That I’m a Woman”?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “Strolling along country roads with my baby, It starts to rain, it begins to pour.”

Answers

• On Nov. 13, 1979, Philadelphia 76ers center Darryl Dawkins leaped over Kansas City Kings forward Bill Robinzine for a memorable slam dunk that shattered the fiberglass backboard. His equally memorable comment on the move, which was not his last and the sound of which spectators likened to a bomb going off: “It wasn’t really a safe thing to do, but it was a Darryl Dawkins thing to do.”

• On Nov. 12, 1969, investigative journalist Seymour Hersh revealed the extent of the U.S. Army’s charges against 1st Lt. William L. Calley at My Lai, Vietnam, in a cable picked up by more than 30 newspapers, saying that “The Army says he [Calley] deliberately murdered at least 109 Vietnamese civilians during a searchand-destroy mission in March 1968, in a Viet Cong stronghold known as ‘Pinkville.’”

• On Nov. 14, 1882, outlaw Frank “Buckskin” Leslie shot and killed Billy “The Kid” Claiborne, who had publicly challenged him, in Tombstone, Arizona.

1. Cat Stevens, in 1970. Stevens, born Steven Demetre Georgiou, changing his name to Yusuf Islam in 1978. In 2006 he began using only Yusuf, and in 2014 began performing as Yusuf / Cat Stevens.

2. Dee Dee Warwick, in 1963. This was followed by several other artists, including Betty Everett and Linda Ronstadt.

3. “Don’t Make Me Over,” in 1966. The song was first released in 1962 by Dionne Warwick. It was her version that put the song in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

4. Love Unlimited on their “Love Is Back” album in 1979. Love Unlimited was the backup group for Barry White.

• On Nov. 15, 1984, Baby Fae, a month old infant who received the world’s first baboon heart transplant, died at California’s Loma Linda University 20 days after the operation. Three other people had received animal heart transplants, but none survived longer than a few days.

• On Nov. 13, 1979, Philadelphia 76ers center Darryl Dawkins leaped over Kansas City Kings forward Bill Robinzine for a memorable slam dunk that shattered the fiberglass backboard. His equally memorable comment on the move, which was not his last and the sound of which spectators likened to a bomb going off: “It wasn’t really a safe thing to do, but it was a Darryl Dawkins thing to do.”

• On Nov. 14, 1882, outlaw Frank “Buckskin” Leslie shot and killed Billy “The Kid” Claiborne, who had publicly challenged him, in Tombstone, Arizona.

• On Nov. 15, 1984, Baby Fae, a month old infant who received the world’s first baboon heart transplant, died at California’s Loma Linda University 20 days after the operation. Three other people had received animal heart transplants, but none survived longer than a few days.

• On Nov. 16, 2001, British author J.K. Rowling’s most famous and beloved creation, the bespectacled boy wizard Harry Potter (played by Daniel Radcliffe in his first major role), made his silver-screen debut in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” which went on to become one of the highestgrossing movies in history.

5. “Laughter in the Rain,” by Neil Sedaka, in 1974. The song charted in several places around the globe, including the Netherlands, the U.K., Yugoslavia, Canada, the U.S. and Australia.

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Can you remind your readers that Halloween can present many dangers to pets? Thank you. -Clara in Atlanta

DEAR CLARA: You’re absolutely right! While it can be lots of fun to celebrate Halloween with your pet, owners need to protect them from risks that can endanger them during the fun.

If you’re having a Halloween party, consider sending your pet to a friend or family member for the evening or give them a safe place to hang out while the guests are there -- like your bedroom or a back room. Make sure they have a comfy bed or blanket, water and toys.

You can bring a pet out to meet the party guests if they are well socialized and calm in group settings. Once your dog or cat (or rabbit or bird or iguana) has said hello to everyone, take them back to their safe room.

Costumes on pets are so much fun, but be sure that the costume isn’t constrictive and that wearing it doesn’t cause them anxiety. A few minutes at a time is recommended -enough time to get some cute photos for your Instagram.

Keep all candies, cookies and sweet treats out of reach of your pets. Chocolate is especially dangerous for dogs. Likewise, if you have party snacks out, keep them up high. Avocado, onions and grapes are also dangerous foods for dogs and cats.

If you’re trick-or-treating with your pet, keep them on a leash at all times. That includes cats! It’s dark, the streets are unfamiliar and there are lots of strange characters walking around. Your pet can get scared and run off.

With advance preparation, you can have a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

ARIES (March 21 to April 19)

A once-harmonious relationship appears to be hitting some sour notes. Spend some time together to see why things have gone off-key. What you learn might surprise you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20)

You feel a need to make some changes. Good! You can do it on a small scale (some new clothes, for example) or go big and redecorate your home and/or office.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Control your tendency toward early boredom. A situation in your life might be taking a long time to develop, but patience pays off. Stay with it.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22)

You might feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster this week. Don’t fret; just ride it out and let things settle down. A Pisces shows understanding.

LEO (July 23 to August 22)

Do something different for once: Compromise. A stubborn stand on an important issue proves counterproductive. You need to be open to new ideas.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22)

A friend offers advice that you perceive as an act of betrayal. But before you turn against the messenger, pay attention to the message itself.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)

A year of riding an emotional pogo stick finally settles down. Use this calmer period to restore frayed relationships and pursue new opportunities.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your words can sting, so be careful how you respond to a friend’s actions. A calm approach could produce some surprising facts.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Be careful about whose secrets you’re being asked to keep. They could impose an unfair burden on a straight arrow like yourself.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) While you prefer taking the tried-and-true course in life, be adventurous this week and accept a challenge that can open up new vistas for you.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your strong sense of justice helps you deal with a job-related situation. Stay with your principles. A Sagittarius emerges as a supporter.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You need to build a stronger onthe-job support system to persuade doubting colleagues that your innovative proposals are workable.

Homes & Living

season for preparation

Preparing your home for a northern BC winter is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and efficiency during the cold months. Here are some key steps to get your home ready for the harsh winter conditions typical of this region.

Insulation and Weatherproofing

One of the most critical aspects of winter preparation is ensuring your home is well-insulated. Start by checking the insulation in your attic, walls, and basement. Proper insulation helps retain heat, reducing energy costs and keeping your home warm. Additionally, install weather-stripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts. This simple step can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Heating System Maintenance

Before winter sets in, have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking for leaks,

and ensuring that your furnace or boiler is operating efficiently. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have the chimney cleaned to prevent creosote buildup, which can cause fires.

Protecting Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant water damage. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and garages. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape. Additionally, keep your home at a consistent temperature, even when you’re away, to prevent pipes from freezing.

Roof and Gutters

Inspect your roof for any damaged or missing shingles and have them repaired. Clear your gutters of leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, which can lead to water damage inside your home. Installing gutter guards can help keep

debris out and reduce maintenance.

Emergency Supplies

Winter storms can lead to power outages, so it’s essential to have an emergency kit ready. This should include flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, bottled water, and blankets. Additionally, consider having a backup heat source, such as a portable propane heater, but ensure it is safe for indoor use.

Outdoor Preparations

Disconnect and store garden hoses, and shut off exterior water valves to prevent pipes from freezing. If you have a sprinkler system, make sure it is properly winterized. Trim any tree branches that could break under the weight of snow and ice and damage your home. Also, have a snow shovel and ice melt on hand for clearing walkways and driveways. By taking these steps to prepare your home for a northern BC winter, you can

ensure a safe, warm, and comfortable season. Proper insulation, heating system maintenance, pipe protection, and having emergency supplies on hand are all essential measures. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy the beauty of winter in northern BC without the stress of unexpected home maintenance issues.

Fixed or variable rates. What are the differences?

In the Northern British Columbia (BC) housing market, choosing between a fixed and variable mortgage can significantly impact your financial planning and stability.

Understanding the differences between these two types of mortgages is crucial for making an informed decision.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

A fixed-rate mortgage offers stability and predictability. The interest rate remains constant throughout the term of the mortgage, which can range from one to ten years, with five years being the most common. This consistency means your monthly payments will not change, making it easier to budget and plan for the future. Fixed-rate mortgages are particularly appealing in a rising interest rate environment, as they protect borrowers from potential rate hikes. In Northern BC, where the housing market can be influenced by various factors such as economic shifts and resource-based industries, the predictability of fixed-rate mortgages provides a sense of security. Homebuyers who prefer to avoid the risk of fluctuating interest rates often opt for fixed-rate mortgages, even if the initial rates are slightly higher than variable rates.

Variable-Rate Mortgages

Variable-rate mortgages, on the other hand, have interest rates that fluctuate

Crown Moulding Styles

Crown moulding is an architectural feature typically installed at the junction of walls and ceilings, enhancing the esthetic appeal of interior spaces. It comes in many different types and styles to serve various functional requirements and design preferences. Here’s a look at seven popular crown moulding styles. Traditional crown moulding features classic profiles with intricate details, making it suitable for formal spaces like dining rooms and libraries.

Modern crown moulding is characterized by clean, straight lines and a minimalistic design to complement contemporary interiors.

Colonial crown moulding is simple yet elegant and often includes symmetrical patterns and modest detailing, ideal for a timeless look.

Craftsman crown moulding emphasizes simplicity and handcrafted quality with straight lines and minimal ornamentation. It’s particularly fitting for rustic or bungalow style homes.

Farmhouse crown moulding is known for its warm and inviting appeal. It often features a mix of simple and rustic elements, perfect for creating a cozy, homey atmosphere.

Victorian crown moulding is rich in detail and grandeur. It includes elaborate patterns and intricate designs, reflecting the opulence of the Victorian era and enhancing the elegance of any room. Art deco crown moulding adds a touch of glamour and sophistication, ideal for creating a dramatic and stylish look. Whether you’re aiming for a classic or contemporary vibe, the right crown moulding can enhance the architectural beauty of your home.

based on the prime lending rate set by financial institutions. These rates can change periodically, typically in response to changes in the Bank of Canada’s policy interest rate. Variablerate mortgages usually start with lower interest rates compared to fixed-rate mortgages, which can result in lower initial monthly payments.

However, the main risk with variable-rate mortgages is the potential for interest rates to increase, which would lead to higher monthly payments. This can be a significant consideration in Northern BC, where economic conditions can be volatile. For instance, changes in the resource sector or shifts in global markets can impact local economic stability, influencing interest rates and, consequently, mortgage payments.

Key Considerations

Economic Environment

In a stable or declining interest rate environment, variable-rate mortgages can be advantageous due to their lower initial rates. However, in a rising rate environment, fixed-rate mortgages offer more security.

Return of Rattan

Once wildly popular in the 1960s and ‘70s, rattan is making a triumphant return, bringing a touch of natural elegance and vintage charm to modern interiors.

Here’s how you can incorporate rattan into your decor and ride this stylish wave.

Classic rattan chairs are ideal for lounging with a good book and a cup of tea. These chairs provide comfort while adding a relaxed, bohemian vibe to any room. Place a rattan armchair in your living room or reading nook and toss in some vi brant cushions for a pop of colour.

Rattan light fixtures are a hot trend, adding warmth and texture to your space. Whether it’s a pendant lamp over the dining table or a cozy bedside lamp, rattan lighting can create a beautiful, soft glow.

A stylish rattan coffee table can add a touch of laidback elegance to your living room. Its natural texture and warm tones can serve as a beautiful focal point in the space.

Rattan planters are the perfect way to display your greenery. They bring an organic feel that complements the natural beauty of plants.

Financial Stability

Fixed-rate mortgages are ideal for those who prefer consistent payments and want to avoid the uncertainty of rate fluctuations. Variable-rate mortgages might suit those who have more financial flexibility and can handle potential increases in payments.

In Northern BC, where housing demand can be influenced by the resource industry, market trends should be closely monitored. Fixed-rate mortgages provide a hedge against market volatility, while variable-rate mortgages can offer savings if rates remain stable or decline

Choosing between a fixed and variable mortgage in depends on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and market outlook. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability and predictability, making them a safer choice in uncertain economic times. Variable-rate mortgages can provide initial savings but come with the risk of increased payments if interest rates rise. Carefully consider your financial goals and the economic environment before making a decision, and always consult with your mortgage broker and/or bank of your choosing.

Rattan baskets and shelves are practical and esthetically pleasing. Use them to store blankets, magazines or toys. Whether you’re going for a laid back boho look or a chic modern style, rattan is your go to material for adding warmth and character to your home.

GO FOR GOLD.

Non traditional home financing After the home inspection

Buying a home without a traditional mortgage might seem daunting, but alternative financing methods of fer flexibility and creativity to aspiring homeowners. Explore these options for securing homeownership without relying on conventional financing.

A rent-to-own agreement

It allows renters to make progress toward homeownership while living on the property. A portion of their monthly rent is typically set aside as a credit toward a future down payment, allowing them to build equity over time.

A private lender

Sometimes private lenders can offer more flexibility if you have a lower credit score or can’t pay a large sum of money down. However, be sure to carefully review the terms and interest rates associated with these loans. payments. This approach requires significant savings but can provide a sense of financial freedom.

Cash sale

Using cashto buy a home outright eliminates the need for a mortgage and any associated interest Lease to own

This allows renters to live in a property with the potential to buy it at a fixed

price in the future. This arrangement can be a good option for individuals who need time to save for a down payment or work on improving their credit. Speak with a local real estate agent to increase your chances of finding the perfect pet friendly housing to meet your needs.

Owner financed

This is an arrangement by which the seller acts as the lender, financing the home purchase directly. Owner financing can offer more flexible terms than traditional mortgages, making it an attractive option for both the buyer and the seller. Explore these alternative methods with a real estate agent in your area.

Have you recently viewed a home that seems like the perfect fit but shows signs that some upgrades or repairs are needed? Are you unsure how to bring this up with the seller? Here’s a stepby-step guide to help you address these issues in your negotiation.

Identify any major issues

Start by reviewing the inspection report and identifying major concerns that could pose safety hazards or significant financial burdens. For example, if the inspection report reveals issues such as a leaky roof, a faulty HVAC system

or plumbing problems, these would be high priority items to address during negotiations.

Consult with your real estate agent

Your real estate agent is a valuable resource in crafting a strategic repair request. For instance, if the inspection report identifies a safety hazard like a faulty gas line, your agent can help you emphasize the importance of addressing this issue in the negotiation. They can help you be specific and reasonable in your requests, focusing on necessary repairs rather than cosmetic improvements.

Present the repair request to the seller

Approach the negotiation process with flexibility and open communication. A willingness to compromise is crucial, as the seller may not agree to all repair requests. For example, if the seller is unwilling to cover the full cost of a major repair, consider negotiating to split the cost or find alternative solutions. A willingness to find common ground can lead to a mutually beneficial outcome. By following these tips and working closely with your real estate agent, you can effectively address necessary repairs while keeping the buying process positive for you and the seller.

Deanna Silva

Pankaj Sharma

Sarah Pineau

As we step into 2025, the world of interior design is buzzing with exciting new flooring trends. Whether you’re renovating your home or simply looking to update a room, these top three flooring trends are sure to inspire you.

Mosaic Tiles in Geometric Patterns. Mosaic tiles are making a grand comeback, and this time, they’re more vibrant and playful than ever. Geometric patterns are at the forefront

Finding Homes for Families

Top 3 Flooring Trends for 2025 Regulating basement humidity

Zero-waste home renovations: planning tips features such as ENERGY STAR® appliances and low flow faucets and toilets. Zero waste home renovations aim to reduce waste, conserve resources and create healthier living environments. Here are a few tips for successfully planning your very own zero waste renovation. Educate yourself on sustainable building practices. Stay informed about emerging eco-friendly technologies. For example, advancements in solar panel efficiency and biodegradable materials are continuously evolving. Reuse whenever possible. Depending on the project, consider opting for salvaged or reclaimed materials to divert waste from landfills and add character and uniqueness to your home.

Incorporate energy-efficient appliances and fixtures. Choose products with high energy efficiency ratings and incorporate water saving Implement proper waste management. Focus on recycling, composting and donating reusable materials to divert waste from landfills. Plan ahead to ensure that construction debris is sorted and disposed of responsibly.

of this trend, offering a modern twist on a classic design. These tiles are perfect for adding a splash of color and personality to spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. The intricate designs can range from simple hexagons to complex, multi-colored patterns that create a stunning visual impact. One of the reasons mosaic tiles are so popular is their versatility. They can be used to create feature walls, backsplashes, or even entire floors. The geometric patterns not only add visual interest but also help to create a sense of movement and flow within a space. Additionally, mosaic tiles are available in a wide range of materials, including glass, ceramic, and natural stone, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect option to match their style and budget.

popular in living rooms, dining areas, and entryways, where the flooring can truly shine.

Art Deco-Inspired Parquet

The beauty of Art Deco-inspired parquet lies in its craftsmanship. The intricate patterns, such as herringbone, chevron, and basket weave, are created by arranging small pieces of wood in a precise and deliberate manner. This not only adds visual interest but also showcases the natural beauty of the wood. Homeowners can choose from a variety of wood species, finishes, and stains to create a custom look that complements their interior design.

making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas and kitchens. Cork flooring, on the other hand, is prized for its softness and comfort underfoot, as well as its natural insulating properties. Reclaimed wood offers a rustic charm that can’t be replicated, with each plank telling its own story through its unique grain patterns and imperfections.

Natural Flooring Options

In addition to their environmental benefits, natural flooring options also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Many of these materials are hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals, making them a great choice for homes with children and pets.

Art Deco is a timeless style that exudes elegance and sophistication, and it’s making a strong comeback in the world of flooring. Parquet flooring, with its intricate patterns and rich textures, is being embraced for its ability to add a sense of grandeur to large, open spaces. This trend is particularly

Zero waste home reno tips

Collaborate with eco-conscious contractors and designers. Find a sustainable focused building professional and communicate your zero waste goals. Work together to identify innovative solutions that minimize waste generation to turn your home into a model of environmental responsibility.

Sustainability is a key trend in 2024, and natural flooring options are at the forefront of this movement. Materials like bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional flooring. These materials not only have a lower environmental impact but also offer unique aesthetic qualities that can

Bamboo flooring is known for its durability and resistance to moisture,

Excessive humidity in basements can lead to mold growth, musty odours and property damage. Prevention and remediation techniques are crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable environment. Here are some tips. Ensure proper ventilation by installing exhaust fans or regularly opening windows to allow air circulation and reduce humidity levels.

Seal cracks and leaks in the foundation walls, floors, windows and doors to prevent moisture from seeping into the basement.

Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels during hot, muggy weather or in areas with high water tables. Add insulation to the basement walls and floors to prevent condensation and reduce moisture entering from the surrounding soil.

Keep gutters and downspouts clean and debris-free to ensure they drain away from the foundation.

Improve drainage by installing a sump pump to redirect groundwater from the basement.

Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer and take actions to maintain optimal levels (ideally between 30 and 50 per cent).

The flooring trends of 2025 are all about combining style with sustainability. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant patterns of mosaic tiles, the timeless elegance of Art Decoinspired parquet, or the eco-friendly appeal of natural materials, there’s a trend to suit every taste and lifestyle. By embracing these trends, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your personal style and values.

Remove mold using a mixture of water and detergent. Hire a professional mold remediation service for extensive cases.

Waterproof the basement walls and floors with sealants or coatings. Contact a professional HVAC company or home renovation contractor for advice and help.