Prince George Citizen 11/07/2024 by Prince George Citizen

THURSDAY, November 7, 2024

A celebration for Shirley Bond

The community thanks the longtime MLA as her time in provincial politics comes to a close

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

Citizen Staff

Truly a night to remember.

MLA Shirley Bond was honoured on Friday for her lifelong contributions to public service in Prince George and the province of British Columbia.

There were more than 300 people packed into the ballroom at the Coast Hotel in downtown Prince George to pay tribute to the Prince George-Valemount MLA who spent the last 24 years in service until BC United leader Kevin Falcon pulled the party out of the provincial election race.

Bond took on many roles during her career, including school trustee, school

board chair, member of the legislative assembly, minister of advanced education, deputy premier, minister of health, minister of education, minister

of transportation and infrastructure, attorney general – the first woman to hold the position in BC’s history – minister of public safety and solicitor general,

minister of jobs, tourism and skills training, shadow minister of health, senior services and long-term care, interim leader of the BC Liberal party and leader of the Opposition.

“That’s a resume,” Shirley’s son Chris Bond said during his heartfelt speech about his beloved mother. He said he thought he was Shirley’s biggest fan until he could not reach his Dad, Bill, on the phone one day many years ago and was so worried he went to check on him.

“The TV was on at 100 decibels,” Chris recalled. “I asked my Dad to turn down the TV and I said ‘you had the TV so loud, you couldn’t hear my phone calls,’ and he said ‘I turn off the ringer on my phone, I turn off the ringer on the home phone just in case your mum gets up to speak – I don’t want to miss it’ –that’s my mom’s number one fan.”

The evening began with a warm welcome from Lheidli T’enneh Elder Darlene McIntosh.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Shirley Bond gives an emotional reply to those gathered to give her thanks for her service to BC at A Night to Honour Shirley Bond, Friday, Nov. 1 at the Coast Inn.

Bond farewell event raises $27K for defribrillators

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“This is a wonderful evening,” McIntosh said. “To be able to celebrate what Shirley Bond has done for Prince George and the province of British Columbia within her role as MLA is extraordinary and she is such a great person of influence and she has made so many positive changes in the North. It’s an honour to celebrate all she has accomplished during her career.”

The audience also heard a few words from Lt.-Gov. Janet Austin, and former premier Christy Clark was also on hand to share some memories and talk about working side-by-side with Shirley.

“In my reflecting on Shirley’s career and sitting beside her in the legislature as we did for most of our careers, I think that one of the most difficult tasks that she took on was the work of overseeing the Missing and Murdered Women’s Inquiry,” Clark recalled.

“She brought a depth of compassion and attention to detail that that terrible task deserved. She was intent on honouring those women’s lives, mourn their deaths, ensuring their names were remembered and understanding and addressing the conditions that had made this horror possible. She gave her whole self to that work. It was done right and it was done with the utmost respect and I will never forget, Shirley, how deeply affected you were. I know the families that you called afterwards, the families that you spoke to throughout the process – I know it was an incredibly moving experience for you and I know it made a difference to all those families who suffered such terrible losses. So thank you – it wasn’t easy.”

Clark continued to speak about the impactful nature of Shirley’s work for the North.

“This part of the province matters to British Columbia and nobody knew that better than Shirley Bond,” Clark said. “Thank you for everything you have done for the province, my friend, for the country and especially for what you’ve done for the north. Most of all thank you for being a uniter at a time when there

premier Christy

300 people present Friday

stories

are so many people who are trying to divide us.”

Bond started her speech filled with gratitude by first thanking her devoted and loving family.

She then turned to people in the audience, including McIntosh and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Chief Dolleen Logan, and talked about the Bill Bond Memorial Fund bringing life-saving automated external defibrillators into public spaces in northern communities. She also mentioned the gratitude she has for Clark and for Austin, her devoted staff who are suddenly without jobs, Valemount Mayor Owen Torgerson and so many more.

“All of you have shaped the person that I am and I am extremely grateful,” Shirley said, addressing the audience. “I want you to know that I love where we live and I hope you do, too. Mostly I love the people who live here. I am asked literally every day – ‘what comes next?’ And I honestly don’t know. I know this, as the days go by I am finding the heart to reflect on my journey so far. Tonight has really helped me with that. So many

blessings.”

Bond acknowledged this was not how she wanted her to career to end.

“But I am finding my way,” she said. “My heart is full of gratitude. What I do know is that I will find meaningful ways to be engaged in this community. To support the organizations that I have come to love and to keep working on the unfinished business that I have like cardiac care in Northern British Columbia.”

She said there is a new chapter ahead.

“It has been the honour of my life to be the MLA for Prince George-Valemount and I will always be grateful,” she concluded.

Also in attendance was BC Green Party Leader Sonia Furstenau, and Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor-General Mike Farnworth.

Coun. Kyle Sampson hosted the evening, which included many video messages from people across the province, including Premier David Eby, former premier Gordon Campbell, BC Lions management, coaches and athletes, Vancouver Canucks, including

the Sedins and management, along with several other politicians, and members of the Prince George community leaders including Charles and Mary Jago, Mayor Simon Yu, Aimee Cassie, (CEO Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation), and Loralyn Murdoch (UNBC athletics director), to name just a few.

Bond was presented with her own BC Lions football and a personalized and autographed Canucks jersey during the event.

Logan and Lheidli T’enneh council members presented Bond with a Lheidli T’enneh jacket proclaiming her an honorary member of the First Nations people.

The evening was also a fundraiser for the Bill Bond Memorial Fund at the Prince George Community Foundation to provide funds to the Heart & Stroke Foundation for the purchase of automated external defibrillators, battery packs, and stands as required for Prince George, McBride and Valemount.

It was announced that $27,000 had been raised during the event.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Former

Clark tells

of the early days she spent with Shirley Bond in the legislature to the more than

Night to Honour Shirley Bond at the Coast Inn.

Budget town hall highlights worn-out infrastructure

Prince George’s population was expected to grow to

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

As a city that covers 329 square kilometres, Prince George is comparable in size to Las Vegas, except when it comes to population.

The Nevada metropolis has eight times as many people as the 75,000 who live in the northern BC capital.

That density discrepancy also exists compared to other BC cities. Prince George has just 240 people per square kilometre, much less than that of Kamloops (320), Kelowna (680), Nanaimo (1,100) and Victoria (4,700)

But it wasn’t supposed to be that way. This was a boom town through much of the 20th century and for four straight decades, from 1940 to 1980, the city doubled its people count every 10 years. Thinking it was going to be another Edmonton, with its blue-collar industrial base, Prince George city planners decided to go big in their projections for future growth.

From 1963 to 1974, the Prince George boundary was expanded 11 times to grow into a city of 61 sq. km, and in 1975, with one fell swoop, the city limits suddenly covered five times as much territory. With that came the need for all those new areas to be serviced with roads, sidewalks, gas pipelines, storm/ sanitary sewers, power lines and street lighting.

The thought was, if they built it people will come, and every neighbourhood had its own school, abundant greenspaces and wide residential streets. But we overbuilt when it came to infrastructure.

“The city has a massive footprint, and not a lot of people,” said Kris Dalio, the city’s manager of finance and information technology services. “We’re the size of Las Vegas, and other cities, when they have this footprint, they have half a million people or more that pay for all this infrastructure. We have 75,000 people.

“We have $4.4 billion of replacement value of all the assets and it’s very

be much larger than it is, and it shows

expensive to maintain. When it comes to things that use up that geographic space, all of that stuff costs us more per person than it does cities of smaller size and higher density. We built for a city bigger than the people who actually ended up coming to stay here.”

In 1979, the city’s first official community plan predicted there would be 185,00 residents living in PG by 2012. Back in 1981, we had more people than Kelowna, Kamloops and Nanaimo. But the boom went bust in the late ‘80s and instead of exponential growth the Prince George population hasn’t changed much at all.

After years of stagnant growth, finally the city took down the sign at the intersection of Highway 16 and 97 that boasted Prince George had 81,000 residents. Was that just wishful thinking that we’d get that big, followed by the realization we weren’t going to get there any time soon? Perhaps.

The problem is the growth of our tax base hasn’t kept pace with our aging infrastructure and that means trouble ahead as the need to replace wornout pavement and punctured pipes becomes more urgent.

It’s estimated there’s $90 million worth of worn-out infrastructure that will require replacement this year alone. The Prince George Aquatic Centre is the big-ticket item on that list and it will

require $37 million in repairs to keep it operational, $14.88 million of which is already secured, with the city needing to borrow another $22.15 million council okayed through the alternate approval process.

“We’re at a critical stage where we had a lot of infrastructure built in a specific timeframe in the city’s history and a lot of it is coming due (for replacement),” said Dalio.

“I think a lot of people believe that being more rural, like we are , that it should be cheaper to maintain everything and cheaper to live here, but I find the reverse to be true. That space we all enjoy, being able to have a fence and yard, it’s actually a luxury and it’s because of our space that we have and how much more per person you’ve got to pay to keep it up, it’s a luxury.”

In January city council approved a $138.8 million tax levy in its 2024 budget and capital plan that resulted in a 6.78 per cent tax increase that took effect in July.

“We spend pretty much all of it,” said Dalio. “We’re a service industry so most of our budget (about two-thirds) is labour and it’s spent keeping people employed who deliver the service.”

The budget-themed town hall meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Civic Centre stems from the city’s legal obligation to host a public engagement

information session. Although it drew only 35 people, the interactive webcast was available that gave participants the opportunity to ask questions of highlevel city staff and department managers in attendance.

A budget summary document graphic shown at that meeting identified the city’s top operational expenses. Topping the list was protective services (police and fire), which accounts for 36.7 per cent ($61.3 million) of the operational budget, more than double that of transportation (15.4 per cent - $25.8 million). Recreation and culture were next (14.8 per cent - $24.7 million) followed by central government operations (13.6 per cent - $22.7 million), debt servicing (7.7 per cent - $12.9 million) and public transit (4.7 per cent - $7.8 million). By the time all city goods and services are paid for, public buildings are subsidized and city staff get their paycheques there’s not much wiggle room for discretionary spending. The city’s finance and audit committee will identify spending priorities and budgets for services that could be adjusted before the city council finalizes that document in budget deliberations Jan 20 and 22.

The city’s online budget public survey, available until Nov. 8, has a sliding tool feature that allows participants to determine how their tax assessment changes if they increase or decrease budget allotments for such services such the policing or snow removal.

“If you want to, you can put in the assessed value of your home and it will tell you what that dollar impact will be for your decisions and the idea is you would try to decide how to balance the city’s budget,” said Dalio.

City staff will present the capital plan and draft operating budget to the finance and audit committee on Dec. 4 and that will be debated by council at the Jan. 22 public meeting at city hall.

City staff will publish responses to those questions raised at the meeting on the city website’s Get Involved page. See more coverage of the city’s budget process on pages 8, 14 and 15.

CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE PHOTO

This drone shot shows sewer line infrastructure replacement at the John Hart Bridge on Highway 97.

At Monday’s public meeting council rejected a plan to cut $1.275 million out of

Council opposed to snow and ice removal cutbacks

CLARKE Citizen Staff

City council expressed opposition to suggested tweaks to its snow and ice removal policy at Monday’s public meeting that could have shaved as much as $1.275 million off the annual $10.3 million snow removal budget.

Since the proposal was made public late last week several councillors said they have received calls from concerned residents, especially seniors, who were outraged the city would consider not clearing residential driveways left with snow pile barriers to achieve a cost savings of $225,000.

Coun. Trudi Klassen said the cost of that driveway-entrance plowing service works out to $3 per person and she considers that money well spent.

Coun. Garth Frizzell said the city’s median population is aging upwards and seniors should not be tasked with having to open packed piles of snow on their own driveways after the graders have plowed the street.

The city also considered increasing the minimum snowfall thresholds to trigger plowing crews by 2.5 centimetres.

The proposal would have raised the 24-hour minimum snow accumulation deployment point to 10 cm from the

current 7.5 cm for Priority 1 and 2 roads and from 12 cm to 14.5 cm for Priority 3 roads.

In 2023, which had five snow events, the increased thresholds would have reduced that to three snow events for an estimated cost savings of $240,507. In 2024 so far there have been four snow events and the new thresholds would have reduced that number to two, resulting a $371,495 budget saving. There were four major snow events in 2022 and all four would have exceeded the new threshold, so there would have been no savings that year.

From 2022-24, nine of the snow events fell short of the threshold, resulting in a projected three-year savings total of $612,002.

Council also considered reducing snow clearing service on statutory holidays, which require 24-hour operations with crews working three shifts per day. There are four stat holidays during winter. Administrative staff estimates that for each day in which snow and ice control operations are paused for a stat holiday the city would save $211,501. If paused on all four days the cost savings would total $846,004.

Blake McIntosh, the city’s director of civic operations, reported there is about $4 million left in the 2024 snow and ice removal budget.

TED

the snow and ice road clearing budget by reducing services.

Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park playground removed

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

City crews erected a wire fence around the perimeter of the Rotary Playground at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park and work continued all last week to dismantle the playground equipment.

Built in July 2000 as a volunteer project that involved Rotarians and their families, the playground no longer meets safety standards and that means the old Fort George Park Fire Department fire truck feature that kids used to climb will soon be removed and placed into storage.

According to a condition assessment conducted by an external audit company:

“The fire truck has become dated. There is much to repair on the existing device due to ongoing wear and tear. It was noted on both sections of the fire truck (that) over time, wear and tear damage has occurred to parts of the fire truck climber, exposed metal portions, damage to finishing on the front portion of the fire truck.

“The slide was noted to have many problems and concerns as noted in the current standard in particular due to ongoing wear, damage and separations that are occurring on the slide bed in several areas. Slides, due to their design, are considered to be a device that a child will descend uncontrolled, no way to stop. Due to this uncontrolled descent there is a need to ensure that all slide beds are smooth with no openings were clothing, hands, fingers, etc., could get caught and result in injury.”

In April, city staff hired Canadian Recreation Solutions to design a new playground that reflects the unique geography and diverse culture of Prince George. Scheduled for completion by the fall of 2025, the new design will incorporate the Little Prince train that runs through the park and will bring back the vintage fire truck feature in a safer form. The design plan is still in its early stages.

The fire truck and other playground

features was taken down to allow for reconstruction of a new playground next spring. The cost of the rebuild on the same site, estimated at $3 million, is pending city council approval.

“The concept for the new playground has a strong focus on accessibility,” says the consultant’s report.

“Accessible features including a rubber surface (helps those using wheelchairs/walkers/crutches to access the playground), an accessible swing, ramps to access the railroad bridge and train play structure, a spinning play feature, tactile sensory activities at many different heights, musical activities, a quiet sensory area for kids who need a calmer environment, and more.”

The playground was built over two days in July 2000 by a group of 50 Rotarians and their friends and families.

A sign that commemorates the playground opening on Sept. 26, 2000 says it was designed for youth of all ages and accessibility levels. But standards on

accessibility and the city’s insurance liabilities have obviously changed since then.

The playground is located just north of The Exploration Place museum building, not far from the Lheidli T’enneh Village Cemetery. Before work can proceed on installing the new playground the city is mandated by the Heritage Conservation Act to conduct an archaeological assessment to avoid disturbing any human remains buried near the park site.

“The entirety of the Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park is a protected archaeological site that requires archaeological monitoring and site mitigation obligations under the Heritage Conservation Act,” said Blake McIntosh, the city’s civic operations director, in a report to council.

“Considering the high archaeological sensitivity and cultural value of the area, innovative approaches will be employed to minimize earthwork and unnecessary disturbances.

Electromagnetic (EM) and ground penetrating radar (GPR) will be used to survey the area currently in use as a playground to provide a more inclusive picture of potential subsurface targets. Geophysical data interpretations may be attained with a greater degree of confidence in areas that are undisturbed and in favourable soil conditions. The consultant must have unobstructed access to the project area, including the removal of all existing play equipment, fall protection and mulch layers. This work is scheduled for this fall and will accommodate the seasonal reduction in use at the park/playground.”

An archaeological assessment would determine the potential negative impacts the playground project would have on a protected site like Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park. If any artifacts are found, results would be shared with the Lheidli T’enneh and a joint decision would be made on how best to proceed, said city spokesperson Claire Thwaites.

CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE IMAGE

The city has removed the Rotary Playground at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, built in 2000 due to safety concerns. A new, modern playground will be installed next year.

Recount ordered in Prince George-Mackenzie

One ballot box wasn’t counted on Oct. 19

CITIZEN STAFF

Elections BC has announced that it will apply for a judicial recount in Prince George-Mackenzie following the discovery of an uncounted ballot box.

The ballot box, which contains about 861 votes, was not included in the initial count or reported on election night.

However, Elections BC confirmed that the missing votes will not affect the outcome of the election in the district, which was won by Kiel Giddens of the Conservative Party of BC.

The oversight was discovered during a review of election materials ahead of judicial recounts in other districts, and comes as part of a broader effort to correct several errors in results reporting from the final count.

Chief electoral officer Anton N.

D’Aniello issued an order to address discrepancies in the reporting of results from six electoral districts.

During preparations for judicial recounts in the Kelowna Centre (KEC) and Surrey-Guildford (SRG) districts, it was revealed that out-of-district votes, recorded on 11 tabulator tapes, had not been reported. These omissions, which were attributed to human error, represent less than 0.08 per cent of the total votes reported across the province and do not change the outcome in any of the affected districts, Elections BC states.

“The errors identified during this review, while unfortunate, are minor in nature and have no impact on the final results of the election,” D’Aniello said in a statement. “We are committed to ensuring that all votes are counted and reported accurately, and these corrections will ensure the integrity of the results.”

The errors were discovered as

Chamber of Commerce hands out business awards

CITIZEN STAFF

The Prince George Chamber of Commerce has announced the recipients of the 39th Annual Business Excellence Awards.

A ceremony was held Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre, where local businesses were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the community. Cheeseneeds won two awards, with Tracey Johnson recognized as Business Person of the Year and receiving the Excellence in Customer Service award.

Baller Food’s Kate Hawley also excelled, claiming both the Excellence in Food and Beverage and Excellence in Promotion and Marketing awards.

Canadian Tire’s Selen Alpay was awarded the Excellence in Business Philanthropy trophy and received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his

significant contributions to the Prince George business community and his support for the chamber of commerce.

The Business of the Year trophy went to 3 Goblins Games.

Other winners included Acres Enterprises for Excellence in Technological Innovation, Nechako Ridge Denturist for BIPOC Business of the Year, The Exploration Place for Excellence in Entertainment and Attractions, Prince George Community Foundation for Excellence in Not for Profit and Community Service, and Wall to Wall – Renovate Recycle Restore for Excellence in Environmental Impact.

The evening featured guest speaker Jody Wilson-Raybould, former minister of justice and attorney general of Canada, who spoke about her bestselling book, True Reconciliation: How to Be a Force for Change, and her co-authored work, Reconciling History: A Story of Canada.

The errors identified during this review, while unfortunate, are minor in nature and have no impact on the final results of the election.’

Elections BC prepared for judicial recounts in KEC and SRG, which had narrow margins.

During this process, officials uncovered a data entry mistake that had caused 14 votes for SRG not to be reported. In response, Elections BC launched a province-wide review to identify any other similar issues.

The review, conducted from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3, found further instances of unreported votes in five other electoral

districts, impacting 69 districts in total.

Despite the widespread nature of these omissions, the unreported votes in each district were small, with no impact on the overall election results or the need for additional recounts.

On Nov. 1, Elections BC informed the parties involved in the judicial recounts in KEC, SRG, and Prince George-Mackenzie about the omissions and confirmed that steps were being taken to correct the errors before the official results are certified.

The discovery of the uncounted ballot box in Prince George-Mackenzie has prompted the application for a judicial recount, although the additional votes will not alter the outcome in that district. The recount will include 861 votes, seven of which are out-of-district ballots.

All affected parties and candidates have been notified, and updates to the official results will be posted following the completion of the judicial recounts.

OPINION OPINION

OPINION

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

OPINION Forget NIMBY and support the people trying to help

Investing today to secure Prince George’s tomorrow

Falcon’s surrender cost us an excellent representative

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

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.

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

As Prince George grapples with its aging infrastructure and a stagnant population, it’s time for mayor and council to confront a critical reality: We have to invest more now to prevent costly repairs in the future.

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.

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

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.

You’ve probably never realized that these places are anything other than typical Prince George apartment buildings.

Our city, which covers 329 square kilometres — an area comparable to Las Vegas — serves a population of only 76,000. This striking disparity in density not only complicates infrastructure maintenance but also calls into question our past planning decisions.

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.

and community engagement, ensuring that they make informed decisions about infrastructure investments and tax allocations.

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

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.

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.

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.

Investing in infrastructure is not merely an expense; it is a long-term strategy that can yield significant dividends. Improved roads, reliable public transit, and well-maintained recreational facilities can enhance property values, attract new residents, and stimulate economic growth. Conversely, failing to invest now can lead to increased costs and service failures down the line, putting unnecessary pressure on taxpayers.

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.

“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 decades, city planners operated under the assumption that Prince George would continue to experience exponential growth. During the post-war boom, from 1940 to 1980, the city doubled its population every decade. With such optimism, the city expanded its boundaries, believing that if we built the infrastructure, people would inevitably come. However, the reality has fallen far short of these expectations. By 1979, projections estimated a population of 185,000 by 2012 — an aspiration that has never materialized.

ture.

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.

Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves in a tight situation. The city’s infrastructure, designed for a much larger population, is now showing its age and is proving to be a burden to current residents.

Kris Dalio, the city’s manager of finance, recently highlighted that

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.

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.

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.

We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.

Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

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.

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.

maintaining our sprawling assets costs significantly more per person than in other cities with similar geographical footprints but far larger populations. With an estimated $4.4 billion in replacement value for city assets, we are increasingly faced with a harsh truth: the need to repair and replace aging infrastructure is pressing, and the cost of inaction is mounting.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This year alone, Prince George will need to allocate approximately $90 million to address worn-out infrastructure, including significant repairs to the Aquatic Centre — one of our community’s prized facilities — requiring $37 million to remain operational. Such expenses illustrate the long-term repercussions of underinvestment and the cycle of deferred maintenance that leads to skyrocketing costs.

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

and recovery.

City council must recognize that keeping taxes low today can lead to far greater expenses tomorrow. This short-sighted approach can trap us in a never-ending cycle of trying to appease voters while neglecting the foundational services that ensure a vibrant community.

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

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.

As Prince George moves forward, councillors should be encouraged to embrace a proactive stance on infrastructure investment.

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

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

As our infrastructure continues to age, delaying necessary investments will only exacerbate the financial strain on future budgets, leading to potential service cuts and diminished quality of life for residents.

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.

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.

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.”

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

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.

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Cameron Stolz Owner

Terresa Randall-Stolz Owner

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.”

At a recent budget-themed town hall meeting, an almost microscopic fraction of the community showed up, reflecting a broader disengagement from the crucial discussions about our city’s future. As residents, we have to demand that our councillors prioritize transparency

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

Kennedy Gordon is The Citizen’s managing editor. CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

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

This approach will not only alleviate the current financial burden but also set the stage for sustainable growth and improved quality of life for all residents. The choices made today will shape the future of our city for generations to come.

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.

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.

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

We live in a community where the footprint is vast but the population is not, so we have no choice but to take a bold approach to facing our challenges. It’s time for our elected officials to prioritize the health of our city’s infrastructure, recognizing that sometimes, the best way to keep taxes manageable is to invest wisely today to avoid far greater costs tomorrow.

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.

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.

He deserves council’s full attention and consideration.

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

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 wand legalities prior to publication. Please include your daytime contact information.

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.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The Prince George Aquatic Centre is an example of the city’s aging infrastruc-

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

OPINION

LETTERS EDITOR to the

Vincent Herle, Grade 4, sent a postcard to The Citizen this week to share his opinion on whether Mr. PG should be moved from his current spot at Highway 97 and Highway 16 to a new location closer to downtown.

Parties must make efforts to appeal to BC’s centre

As I See It

Well, we finally have the results for the 2024 provincial election. The NDP hold 47 seats, the Conservatives have 44 seats, and the Green Party has the final two seats.

Or, at least, that is the way it stands as I write this. There are still judicial recounts to come which may alter the final tallies in some of the closer ridings. They are automatically triggered in tight races.

But assuming the numbers don’t change, the NDP will form government for the next four years and David Eby will remain as premier.

The Speaker of the House is typically elected from the governing party which would seem to put the numbers at 47 NDP and 46 opposition members resulting in tie votes.

However, in the case of a tie, the speaker traditionally votes with the government.

We should have a few years of stability in government and won’t be back at the polls any time soon.

Now comes time for the analysis and I have heard a number of pundits say they are amazed by the surge in the Conservative vote.

If we are talking just about the Conservative Party of BC, then yes, it would appear to be a surge – going from 1.91 per cent to 43.27 per cent. That would be amazing if it really was about the Conservative Party of BC.

But I would suggest it is not.

If you look at the numbers over the past five elections in this province, the NDP and the BC Liberals consistently pull about 40 per cent of the vote. Specifically, for the NDP, in 2020 it was 47.69 per cent, in 2017 40.29 per cent, in 2013 39.71 per cent, in 2009 42.15 per cent, and in 2005 41.52 per cent. For the B.C. Liberals, in 2020 it was 33.77 per cent, in 2013 40.37 per cent, in 2013 44.14 per cent, in 2009 45.82 per cent and in 2005 45.80 per cent.

I know that is a lot of numbers but essentially the message is that we are a province divided with roughly 40 per cent of the province favouring the left-leaning NDP and 40 per cent favouring the right-leaning B.C. Liberals and the Conservative Party of B.C. Neither party has really made in-roads on the 20 per cent in between. The Green Party has staked a claim but their showing in

the most recent election (8.24 per cent) would suggest they are not making capturing the minds and votes of British Columbians. They really haven’t established themselves as a solid alternative. There are a number of ways to frame the results. One friend said the election is about those who like the NDP and those that don’t. And the ones who don’t will vote for whatever party is not the NDP.

In this case, that was the Conservative Party of BC. Was it amazing that they claimed 43.27 per cent of the vote, though?

We have a government. We have an opposition. The next four years will tell us whether either can make inroads into the middle.

Todd Whitcombe is a professor of chemistry at the University of Northern British Columbia

TODD WHITCOMBE

OPINION

Council willing to listen to spending ideas from PG taxpayers

Do we really need a three million dollar playground? A toilet valued at the same price as the Spruce Kings lottery house?

And can someone please go to a school and take a crash course on how to put on an assembly for under twenty five thousand dollars.

Randy Flavel

Council willing to listen to spending ideas from PG taxpayers

In context with the welcome signs to Prince George, Steve Sintich said it well: “The welcome signs to Prince George are a monument to a dead city.” Look at the loss of goodpaying jobs in Prince George, with all the mills shut down; plywood, sawmills, pulp mills, etc. Young people are leaving for greener pastures and old people are left trying to survive on their pensions as taxes and utilities increase yearly. Everything we own requires maintenance, that goes without saying.

But does everything need to be replaced? For example; the new pool, did it need replacing? Stop spending money we do not have, the interest charges alone can go a long way to maintain what we have.

Ed Denicola

PG facing major infrastructure costs as city utilities break down

Article states the 2/3 of city spending is on people so that would be the most obvious place to look for savings

Off the top of my head I can think of three positions that should be cut

The province gave the city a grant to cover the wages for a couple of outreach workers to help deal with the homeless & drug addicted in the downtown core.

When the grant ended the city put these people on their payroll.

Why? It is a provincial responsibility and they should pick up the tab

The city has floated the idea of adding a person so the city can obtain Bear Smart status. Again why? If the city is pleading poverty on one hand how can this be justified?

So $300k/year savings in wages & benefits without even breaking a sweat.

Each dep’t head should have to justify each & every person that reports to them.

Bet the workforce could be reduced by 5% and nobody would notice any differencemake that the goal that each dep’t must meet

TheONE THING that has grown is city payroll.

Bobs your uncle

Share your views on our stories at

Mystery Mr. PG model kept safe by Prince George’s Steve Sintich since 1976

A giant 50-60 Ft. Mr PG should, be built and installed at the intersection of Hwys 97 and 16 in front of the casino .

Let’s make a statement to all travelers going through P.G. The largest stick man in the world. Put Prince George on the map.

And I agree with Steve Sintich about the welcome signs to Prince George. They look like a door off of a city works truck, Not much imagination there.

bill lloyd-jones

Prince George, Kelowna now connected by air

This is fantastic news. Many people now have to head to Kelowna for cancer treatment be-ing we have a shortage of specialists here so this is wonderful news.

R.Nich

RCMP boss says PG’s crime caseload ranks higher “The vast majority of crime we investigate, especially violent crime, is by known offenders” What more can be said about this? It’s appalling to me that as a country we just tolerate this.

We just (barely) re-elected a BC NDP government that believes in reducing crime by simply not charging people with their offenses.

After another 4 years of this madness I wonder what our communities will look like? DD22

It’s really nice that he kept him in such good condition, for so long, but it almost belongs one of the local museums for all to enjoy.

But I agree with everything Steve said.

I try to support local as best I can and I feel bad for local businesses trying to eke a living down there, but investing money into the down town core, is akin to throwing money into a sinking ship. And we can thank the NDP for the most disastrous social policy this prov-ince has likely ever seen. Nothing is happening with the downtown core, until the massive problem with homeless people is resolved and that will likely take decades, if ever. You cannot simultaneously offer mass housing, food banks and drug dispensaries for drug addicts, prostitutes and criminals and also expect a bustling down town to flourish in spite of it all.

One day, only city hall and the court house may be all that remain downtown, among the many vacant building and denizens that they serve.

Zangief

Safety concerns scrapping Lheidli T’enneh playground

It would be nice if some of that 3 million could be peeled off for the real Little Prince. It is parked in a damp dark enclosure, a steel culvert, that floods every spring.

HeeHaw

Mystery Mr.

model kept safe by Prince George’s Steve Sintich since 1976

New Conservative MLAs ready head to the Legislature

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

It took nine days to determine but the BC election results have been finalized and the NDP will retain its grip on power for a third straight term.

By the slimmest majority, David Eby’s party won the mandate to govern the province, claiming 47 seats, while the Conservatives count 44 seats and the Greens have two.

Moving forward, that puts the NDP in the precarious position of requiring all 47 of its elected MLAs available to guarantee their votes will pass.

“It’s a pretty thin majority and they still have to pick a speaker – I don’t think there will be a lot of appetite from the other parties to pick a speaker and their majority becomes much less valuable, the math is a problem for them,” said Sheldon Clare, the newly elected MLA for Prince GeorgeNorth Cariboo.

“If anything, this election has shown (the NDP) that there’s a great deal of concern with their program and British Columbians are not on side with their program and there’s a great deal of opposition to it.”

Conservative leader John Rustad, about to begin his sixth term as MLA for Nechako Lakes, posted on X his comments about how his party has risen from virtual invisibility to become an opposition party only a few seats shy of forming the government.

“We have made history in BC. Just 18 months ago, the Conservative Party of BC was at 2 per cent in the polls, had no members, no money, no team,” said Rustad.

“But what we did have was grit, determination and a massive grassroots movement that would make the impossible happen. I am immensely proud to lead a party that went from zero seats to 44 and almost government in just a year.”

Because the vote was so close in several electoral districts, it took more than a week to make sure the final tallies were correct. There are still two ridings – Surrey-Guildford and Kelowna

Centre – won by the NDP by margins of less than 1/500th of the total number of votes cast that will go through a judicial review.

Clare doesn’t anticipate any changes in the outcomes and was impressed with how the vote was handled by the authorities.

“I think Elections BC did a terrific job under a lot of pressure and scrutiny,” said Clare. “I’m satisfied they came up with an accurate result and we can be confident that our voting system works.”

He said he and his team started campaigning in December and knocked on 14,000 doors. He captured 56.82 per cent of the vote, defeating independent incumbent Coralee Oakes, who had 21.84 per cent.

“It’s a fact that political campaigns need to work very hard on voter identity and getting out their vote and it’s critically important for people to understand that every vote matters,” said Clare.

“The processes Election BC went through are unusual because usually we have a clear result on voting day and they don’t matter as much. They’re still counted for final count but they don’t generally change the final results. In this case we had such a razor-thin margin

with the votes it’s been really important.”

The Oct. 19 cliffhanger showed the NDP elected or leading in 46 ridings, with Conservatives holding 45 seats. But a count of the mail-in/absentee ballots flipped the Surrey-Guildford riding in favour of incumbent NDP Garry Begg, who trailed Conservative Honveer Singh Randhawa when the initial results were released late on election night.

“Obviously the voters in Prince George-Mackenzie had their say and it was resounding,” said Conservative Kiel Giddens, elected with a 60.97 per cent majority over NDP Shar McCrory, who was next in line and got 28.36 per cent of the vote.

“There were some other ridings where it was much more close, very tight, and every vote matters,” Giddens said. “Ultimately with the overall election results, this is democracy and the voters are never wrong, so we’ll work with it and we’ll have a very strong opposition voice to the NDP there in Victoria. This is the largest opposition

caucus that this province has had in a very long time. I think it will be a very strong opposition that will hold the government to account.”

Giddens also expressed his confidence in the accuracy of the vote conducted by Elections BC and said he personally witnessed how the voting machines work.

He and the other Conservative MLAs gathered with Rustad in a two-day meeting in Vancouver last week to discuss their immediate strategy.

“There are very strong MLAs elected and I think we’ll have some good voices to work together to try to get results for British Columbians,” said Giddens. “For the majority of us it was the first time meeting in person and we had a chance to talk about practical things like getting a caucus organized and getting constituency offices organized. Our aim is to be up and running for constituents as soon as possible.”

Giddens hopes to take over the lease and remain in the Mike Morris’s Prince George office on 10th Avenue and will also open an office in Mackenzie.

The three Prince George MLAs, all Conservatives, are all new to the job.

Clare (Prince George-North Cariboo), Giddens (Prince George-Mackenzie) and Rosalyn Bird (Prince George-Valemount) are going through the protocols of what’s expected of them now that they‘ve been chosen to represent their electorate in the Legislature.

Bird was not available for comment.

“They’re sending us things to read right now and we have MLA school coming up,” said Giddens. “There’s a bunch of (online) courses this week and we have a three-day thing in Victoria they have coming up for us.”

A date for the swearing-in ceremony has not yet been set but Giddens expects that will be on Nov. 12. He hopes to have his family there in Victoria for that.

Clare said he plans to open constituency offices in Prince George and Quesnel and will soon hire his staff.

“We’re looking forward to rolling up our sleeves and getting to work,” he said.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Newly elected MLAs Rosalyn Bird (Prince George-Valemount) and Kiel Giddens (Prince George-Mackenzie) celebrate their wins on election night.

Clare

Council hears update on Moccasin Flats safety issues

According to the report, there are only 14 people still living in the encampment

CITIZEN STAFF

Calls for service and complaints in the Millar Addition area were “modest” over the summer months, a new report to council indicates.

City staff developed the report in response to council’s Oct. 7 request for more information about safety issues of concern to residents of the Millar Addition and other neighbourhoods around Moccasin Flats.

The report, titled “Social Health –Issues Update,” highlights that calls for service and complaints from the Millar-Addition area remained modest over the summer months, attributed to proactive engagement efforts at the Lower Patricia Boulevard Encampment, also known as Moccasin Flats. Staff noted a significant reduction in hazardous materials and a decrease in the encampment’s occupants.

The city is currently implementing a four-phase response plan to address the challenges posed by the encampment. As of now, the city is in Phase 1, which focuses on building capacity and mitigating hazards.

Plans are underway to transition to Phase 2, which will demonstrate to the Supreme Court the City’s capacity to facilitate alternative shelter solutions for those living at the encampment. Further communication with the public will occur once the court application is advanced and additional details are confirmed.

Housing and shelter update

As of Oct. 11, all available spaces at Victoria Street Supportive Housing are fully occupied, reflecting ongoing demand for supportive housing in the area.

The report notes a significant decrease in the number of individuals sheltering at the Lower Patricia Boulevard Encampment, which has dropped

Firefighters battle a blaze at Moccasin Flats on Thursday, May 30 in Prince George, B.C. It was the second fire at the homeless encampment on Lower Patricia Boulevard that week.

from 44 in May to just 14 currently.

The city is operating 151 shelter beds, with six reserved to assist encampment occupants. Plans are on track for the opening of the 3rd Avenue Transitional Facility later this fall, which will provide 24/7 staffing and various support services, including health care referrals and life skills training.

Encampment management strategy

The LPBE remains the city’s only large entrenched encampment. As the city progresses through Phase One of its response strategy, it has seen positive developments, including a reduction in encampment residents and improved site conditions.

The city is preparing to return to the Supreme Court of British Columbia to discuss the future status of the encampment, which remains a key focus. The transition strategy includes

several phases aimed at creating suitable housing alternatives and managing health and safety concerns. Phase Two, anticipated to begin in late 2024, will involve demonstrating community capacity to transition the encampment to other housing forms.

Fire and Rescue response

From Jan. 1 to Oct. 20, Prince George Fire Rescue responded to a range of incidents, including 292 burning complaints and 398 medical aid calls within the downtown core. The service remains vigilant in ensuring public safety across the city, the report states.

Bylaw enforcement efforts

Bylaw officers continue to collaborate with civic operations to mitigate risks at the LPBE, engaging in regular cleanup efforts to remove abandoned materials and improve safety.

In 2024, there have been 164 calls regarding open drug use in the downtown area, reflecting ongoing challenges in public safety.

Community policing

The Prince George Community Policing unit has actively maintained partnerships with local Block Watch groups, currently supporting 44 active neighbourhood watch areas. Reports indicate that break and enter incidents have been relatively stable, with a total of 373 recorded in 2024 thus far.

The city’s ongoing efforts aim to enhance community safety and support for its most vulnerable residents. Further updates on these initiatives are expected as the city moves forward with its plans for sustainable housing and social services, the report states. Council received the report for information at its meeting Monday.

All-weather field planned for Carrie Jane Gray Park

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

All-weather field centrepiece of Carrie Jane Gray Park improvement plan

A proposed project to make improvements to sports facilities at Carrie Jane Gray Park was enthusiastically welcomed by city council Monday night.

Council unanimously directed city administration to utilize the Carrie Jane Gray Park Renewal preferred concept plan in a phased approach through incremental annual budget funding submission requests, starting in 2025.

The project stems from a May 2023 council meeting in which council directed administration in May 2023 to add a capital project to its future capital plan to find a centralized location for a new synthetic turf field that the city would manage.

Masich Place Stadium is fully scheduled, according to the report, and

City council welcomed an update on plans to revitalize the city’s central outdoor sports complex Monday night.

construction of another all-weather field, at the urging of the Prince George Kodiaks junior football program, would

Bear recommendations raise funding concerns

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The city’s advisory committee on bear awareness brought eight recommendations to council to try to reduce black bear/human conflicts in the city.

Council members expressed concerns about the cost of implementing all eight recommendations and referred the proposal to the city administration to determine how much each of those recommendations would cost the city. The committee has recommended that the city hire a dedicated employee focused on sustainable waste management.

Bears are attracted to fruit trees and garbage bins in residential areas as food sources, leading to encounters with people. By proactively addressing those conflicts, which in 2023 led to 79 black bears euthanized by conservation

officers, the committee suggested Prince George would be more likely to achieve provincial Bear Smart status.

The committee also proposed a twoyear pilot project utilizing automated bear-resistant solid waste bins in areas that experience high bear activity. If it proves successful that could lead to city-wide implementation, further reducing the risk of bear encounters and promoting safer communities.

“Waste management is the No. 1 bear conflict issue,” said Lisa Cran, a board member for the Northern Bear Awareness Society.

BC Conservation officer Alicia Buchanan told council there have been 474 reports to the conservation office on black bear sightings in the city in 2024, as compared to 3,725 in the 12 months of 2023. Eight bears have been destroyed by conservation officers, compared to last year’s total of 79.

season, from May-October.

City parks supervisor Robyn McConkey said the initial phase possibly to be presented for council approval next year is to service the 40-hectare park with roads and parking and the relocation/rebuild of the BMX track that would cost between $1.5 million and $2 million.

“Synthetic turf fields, in today’s dollars can run municipalities $12 million,” said McKonkey.

While the total of the entire project was not revealed, council indicated a revitalized Carrie Jane Gray Park would add to the city’s sport tourism industry and would encourage more local participation in recreational sports.

be well-received by various sports groups whose use of existing natural fields is restricted by the short outdoor

Councillors suggested the city administration look into organizing a fundraising drive and investigate public-private partnerships to help fund park refurbishments, which include a centrally located washroom/changeroom/storage facility.

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Councillors open to public’s ideas on 2025 spending

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

If you think it’s a lost cause to try to influence city councillors with your suggestions on how and where municipal tax dollars should be spent, you’re misinformed.

Coun. Cori Ramsay, chair of the city finance and audit committee, says public input is a critical component of the budgeting process in the months leading up those two council meetings in late January, when council will pass the city’s operating budget for 2025-26.

“The budget consultation is one of the greatest opportunities for residents to engage with us and provide feedback on budget,” said Ramsay.

“The online survey we do, the social media posts, all of that is taken into account when each of the individual councilors are looking at the budget in the new year. There’s so much oppor the public feels about how the city’s spending, and I personally put a great

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amount of weight on it.”

Once the cost of running civic facilities has been paid and the workforce that supplies goods and services that keep the city operating has been compensated with paycheques, there’s not much money from the property tax pot. But Ramsay says some spending is left to the discretion of city staff and it’s ultimately up to council to decide whether or not to spend it.

And now is the time to make suggestions.

On Wednesday, the city hosted a public engagement session at the Civic Centre to discuss budget issues and lined up senior administrative staff to field questions from the public and results from that will be posted on the city’s website.

An online budget survey on the city’s Get Involved web page will be collecting opinions and ideas until Friday to give people a chance to let our elected councillors what they think should be spending priorities.

A capital plan budget will be presented to the finance and audit committee Dec. 4, and once councillors see how much of the city budget is tied to fixed costs then they will know how much wiggle room there is to pay for other

programs or enhancements to the city.

“A lot of the projects are going through the RFP (request for proposal) process, so it does help staff get the nod from the committee so they can get that RFP process started a little earlier in the year as we have a short construction season,” said Ramsay.

“But I wouldn’t say it’s set in stone. There’s still the ability of council to make adjustments at budget, as we did see in the last budget cycle.”

In April, city council recommended to the finance and audit committee that it go ahead with spending $36 million on repairs to the Prince George Aquatic Centre. The four-phase project will address building system failures, end-of-service-life infrastructure, energy efficiency and meet health and safety code requirements.

The city already has $14.88 million in reserve funding earmarked for the pool and will have to borrow $22 million, which passed the alternate approval process. That loan will result in an annual debt servicing cost of $1.85 million over 20 years, which is expected to raise the annual tax levy by 1.34 per cent.

Senior staff outlines budget process at Civic Centre

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

City councillors and senior administrative staff gathered Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Civic Centre to discuss how your tax dollars will be spent next year.

The city hosted a town hall meeting focused on the municipal budget and city managers were in the hot seat explaining how their budgets will be distributed once next year’s budget is approved in late January.

Topics broached included infrastructure over-investment during the city’s boom years and how that’s led to aging infrastructure in need of replacement; police and fire protective services as the biggest operational budget drain; dedicated bike lanes on city streets; snow removal policies: and the city’s role in attracting sports and entertainment events.

The informal public open house started at 3:30 p.m., and that led to a 2

1/2-hour question-and-answer session that was livestreamed on YouTube.

Empty chairs outnumbered occupied seats by a 10:1 ratio as only about 35 people attended the evening discussion. Participants also had the opportunity

Budget includes ‘war chest’

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Ramsay says that’s an expensive example of the city having to come to terms with replacing its worn-out or failing infrastructure just to maintain the standards residents expect.

“I think we were very surprised by that,” Ramsay said. “We have a lot of aging infrastructure in need of renewal. A lot of it was built around the same time and it’s going to continuously come up.

“One of the things we implemented last year was after the tax levy is set, one per cent is added to the infrastructure reinvestment levy to help us stock up that war chest. That savings will help us build that money up so that we have it to invest in more infrastructure projects going forward.”

Based on last year’s levy, the fund has $1.388 million set aside from the current fiscal year.

The finance and audit committee also includes councillors Tim Bennett,

Ron Polillo and Trudi Klassen.

By design, no more than four councillors are allowed on a standing committee so that any decisions made at that table would still require approval from a quorum of city council (at least five council members).

Ramsay said the city plans to create a committee of the whole for capital projects this summer, which would allow all city councillors to participate in informal discussions of capital project funding months before decisions are made by senior staff.

“So we’ll be able to, in June, per say, look at all of the capital projects and perhaps give an indicator to administration on where we would see the priorities being,” said Ramsay.

“Committee of the whole allows us to meet, and any decisions made there would be referred back to council.”

More information about the city’s budget process is available on the City of Prince George website.

to present their questions remotely.

Any questions received through the Slido portal not answered or not addressed by city staff and will be posted on the city’s website on the Get Involved page.

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Results of the community engagement session will be tabulated and presented to city council’s finance and audit committee on Dec. 4.

Council will discuss the budget at meetings to be held Jan. 20 and Jan. 22.

At Ave Maria Specialties we have something for all your Christmas Traditions. From Advent Candles and wreathes, to Nativity scenes in all shapes and sizes, as well as beautiful, boxed packs of Christmas Cards. We are very happy to be able to showcase these beautiful products for this amazing time of year. Wishing you a Joyful Christmas Season, and Many blessings to you and your family.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY TED CLARKE

Eric Depenau, the city’s director of administrative services, speaks at the Oct. 30 public budget discussion at the Prince George Convention and Civic Centre.

Film series launches with message of Hope & Strength

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Carrier Sekani Family Services unveiled Stories of Hope & Strength, a powerful film series amplifying the voices of Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ2+ communities at the Prince George Playhouse recently.

With this project Carrier Sekani Family Services hopes to change the narrative of the ongoing crisis of violence toward Indigenous peoples, sharing personal stories of resilience, healing, empowerment and hope.

Stories of Hope & Strength proudly launched its first short film recently on social media.

The short is called Tracie LéostUnstoppable and is directed by Linda Nelson.

The film features Red River Métis leader, activist and athlete Tracie Léost, who shares what inspires her to raise her voice for future generations of Indigenous youth. Tracie embodies ‘you are strength’ through the acknowledgement of the inner power to raise her voice, embrace her identity and to fight back against systems of oppression, the film introduction said.

Léost is a true leader and advocate as seen by her accomplishments.

In 2015 Léost ran 115km in four days to raise funds and awareness for those missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, which gained international attention for her advocacy efforts.

In 2018 Léost received the Metis Inspire award and in 2020 she was presented with the Gabriel Dumont Bronze Medal for her outstanding service to the Métis of Canada, one of the Métis Nation’s highest civilian honours.

In 2020 Léost started non-profit Waanishka Movement Inc. as she began her last year at the University of Regina while earning her bachelor of social work program. In the Michif language, waanishka is a command to ‘get up and rise’, which encourages Indigenous youth to reclaim their heritage, share their stories and empower one another

to make positive change.

Léost recently began working with the Malala Foundation raising awareness of violence against Indigenous women and was awarded one of CBC Manitoba’s Future 40, honouring impressive, community-minded Manitobans making the province better for future generations and named one of Canada’s most decorated Indigenous young people.

Right now she is completing her masters in education at Nipissing University.

She connected with a producer of the Stories of Hope & Strength film series, Matt Smiley, who had helped Mary Teegee-Gray of Carrier Sekani Family Services with the film For Love in 2022 and Léost met him at that time.

“So when this project came to be he had spoken to Carrier Sekani Family Services team about me and kind of made some introductions and asked if I would want to be part of the project,” Léost said.

“It was the easiest thing to say yes to and it was something I was very eager to participate in. My vignette is called Unstoppable and it’s pretty accurate. It talks about my role in leadership and my advocacy efforts and it really talks about my hope for young people. I talk in my vignette about how I want young people to know they can challenge systems, and they don’t have to do

things simply because that’s the way they’ve always been done. It talks about the encouragement and hope I have for youth and the power that I think young people have to change the world.”

The short film talks about how the entire country and society needs to understand and address the epidemic of murdered and missing women, girls and two-spirited people, she added.

“It’s a very powerful vignette,” Léost said. “It is very truthful but it also calls on the greater public to do their part. I think in the era of Truth & Reconciliation we are getting ourselves on the right track and that’s very evident in the conversations we’re having in the curriculum in the education system, in the way Indigenous topics are talked about politically, on all levels of government. We’re on the right track with Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth & Reconciliation but we haven’t gotten it yet.”

Reconciliation is a journey, not a sprint, she added.

“And that is evident because not all 94 Calls to Action have been implemented, only a handful of them are so I think we’re starting to get there but I think there’s a lot of work that still needs to be done to move closer to what reconciliation looks like,” Léost said.

“In terms of the Calls for Justice we have a very long, long, long, long, long

way to go because very few of the MMIWG2S Calls for Justice are implemented. I think reconciliation will help get us there and in the same breath I do think we’re starting to have these conversations and that’s why this project exists. And I am seeing more of the public aware of these kinds of topics. I’m seeing more people aware of the way that settler colonialism, violence, and Indigenous women are misrepresented in the media. More people are aware of those implications into this epidemic so I think - are we starting to learn? Yes. But considering this is still an epidemic speaks that we’re not there yet.”

Within the Stories of Hope & Strength film series the focus is on lived experiences, cultural strength, and unbreakable spirit of survivors, families, and future leaders.

“Our stories are not just statistics,” said Mary Teegee-Gray, Carrier Sekani Family Services executive director of Child & Family Service.

“This film series was created to remind the world that behind every number is a young woman with a story, a community with strength, and a culture with deep-rooted resilience. These films are about the power, beauty, and brilliance of our people.”

To see Léost’s inspiring vignette visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=a4MH9CVQHJk&t=1s.

HANDOUT PHOTO

Tracie Léost is Unstoppable, part of the Hope & Strength film series presented by Carrier Sekani Family Services to amplify the voices of Indigenous people.

BC Assembly of First Nations calls for talks to resume

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) has a message to Premier David Eby as he forms his provincial NDP government following their narrow victory over the BC Conservative Party in the Oct. 19 election.

Get back to the negotiating table.

BCAFN Regional Chief Terry Teegee of Prince George said he looks forward to continuing to build a constructive relationship with the government and is calling on Eby to resume reconciliation with First Nations and recognize the inherent rights of Indigenous people.

“This election was marked by a stark division between the parties, and between British Columbians - but one thing BC voters have made clear: they support the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act,” said Teegee, in a media release.

“In many ways the Declaration Act

was a ballot question, and the majority of British Columbians see the Declaration Act as a vital tool to advance reconciliation in the province.”

Teegee called on the NDP to make it a priority to address the following items in the government’s legislative agenda.

Negotiations between the province and First Nations must resume as soon possible, with strong cross-ministry mandates which will strengthen implementation of the Declaration of Indigenous Peoples Act including agreements to increase the decision-making authority of Indigenous governments, also calling for changes to the Mineral Tenure Act, the Land Act and the Environmental Assessment Act.

A full public inquiry into the deaths of First Nations people at the hands of police should be launched by the province.

Continued and ongoing support for First Nations pursuing financial independence through economic development.

City seeks final feedback on Official Community Plan

CITIZEN STAFF

The City of Prince George is inviting residents to provide their final input on the draft Official Community Plan (OCP), a document that outlines the city’s vision and framework for development, land use and community growth through 2050.

This is an opportunity for community members to influence the future of Prince George, ensuring that the OCP aligns with local priorities and sustainable development goals, the city states in a media release.

The draft OCP comes after an 18-month planning process that included detailed research, technical analysis and contributions from residents, landowners, business owners and community organizations.

The review process was publicly initiated on Sept. 18, 2023, with council

Following final tabulation of mail-in/ absentee votes on Monday, Oct. 28, the NDP secured a majority government by the slimmest of margins and have 47 seats in the Legislature, with the Conservatives holding 44 seats and the Greens two.

Teegee said the close vote highlights the need for the government to work with First Nations and all British Columbians to regain the trust in its ability to govern.

“The NDP narrowly won a provincial election, despite a significant incumbency advantage and being opposed by a divided and disorganized right,” said Teegee. “The fear-mongering of the BC Conservatives, whose candidates have denied climate change and expressed bigoted and racist ideals underscores the need for this new government to engage with British Columbians to bring communities together.

“This includes engaging with First Nations and the BC Greens.”

Reconciliation

receiving an update on community feedback and engagement opportunities on July 8.

Beginning this week, the draft OCP is available for public review.

City staff will refine the plan based on community input before presenting it to the council in early 2025. The council’s review process will be public, allowing residents additional opportunities to share their thoughts with councillors.

Residents are encouraged to thoroughly read the draft OCP, available on the city’s website.

Feedback will be collected through an online survey available until Nov. 22.

Residents can also engage directly with the planning team at upcoming sessions held at Pine Centre Mall on Nov. 13 and Nov 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

These sessions will provide a chance to learn more about the draft OCP, take the survey and offer feedback.

Engagement Workshop

November 9 & 10

Courtyard Marriot, Prince George BC 900 Brunswick St

10AM - 4PM both days, Lunch Provided

• The draft Da’ax Kw’alaams Man-Ayaawx Constitution

• Long term governance visioning and planning

• The BC Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and law-making for Lax Kw’alaams

For more information and RSVP: amlahaw@laxband.com

Terry Teegee, regional chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, is calling on NDP government to accelerate implementation of Declaration of Indigenous Peoples Act.

What’s happening in PG

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 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.

John Michael Lind, alt-country & roots musician goes Saturday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. at Deadfall Brewing, 1733 Nicholson St. S. Visit the micro brewery tap

room for an awesome show.

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.

Christmas Bizarre, Garage Sale, Market goes Saturday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr. Come browse to see what treasures you can find.

Holiday Small Business Fair goes Saturday, Nov. 9 and Sunday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Roll-A-Dome. There are more than 100 vendors on site. One of the largest fairs of the season featuring a variety of food, crafts, direct sales and photos with Santa.

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. For tickets visit https://ticketsnorth.ca/

TayTay.

Judy Russell and the PGSO presents Sweeney Todd on Friday, Nov. 15 to Sunday, Nov. 17 at Vanier Hall. Sweeney Todd offers the infamous musical tale of a murderous barber returned from exile to avenge his wife. Music director at PGSO, Michael Hall, will conduct the symphony. Tickets at www.pgso.com/ concerts/Sweeney-Todd.

Sterling Scott – The Golden Buzzer Tour goes Friday, Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at Crush Nightclub, 1192 5th Ave. Join us for an unforgettable comedy show with the hilarious Sterling Scott, known for his side-splitting punchlines and Golden Buzzer-worthy performances. Tickets are $20 at www.eventbrite. com/e/sterling-scott-the-golden-buzzertour-tickets.

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.

For the Love of David Bowie goes Saturday, Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. at Omineca Arts Centre, 369 Victoria St. Come join us at the Omineca Arts Centre for a night dedicated to the iconic musician David Bowie! Dance the night away to his greatest hits and a wild mix of glam rock, dance punk, disco and house. DJ Larry (2nd Thoughts) spinning vinyl all night. Kick off with David Bowie Hour from 9 to 10 p.m., then lose yourself to a night of feel good music curated by one of PG’s finest DJs. Cash prize for best outfit! Tickets are $20 at www.eventbrite.com/e/ for-the-love-of-david-bowie-tickets. CONTINUED

Blippi

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

My Eyes Are Fuses Book Launch & Reading goes Saturday, Nov. 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Books & Co., 1685 Third Ave. With vivid imagery and striking allusions, Norah Bowman’s My Eyes are Fuses is feminist mythology brought to life. Local authors Betsy Trumpener and Sarah de Leeuw will provide opening readings to the launch of Bowman’s latest collection, released by Caitlin Press.

Live Pro Wrestling goes Friday, Nov. 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 5:45 p.m. at the Prince George Civic Centre. Two great live shows. VIP Doors open at 5:45 and starts at 6 p.m. General doors open at 6:30 p.m. and bell at 7 p.m. sharp. Tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance at the Scrapbook Zone, 3899 18th Ave., or J&A Stereo +, #5-1839 First Ave., and online at www.ticketseller.ca/tickets/event/ the-primetime-tournament.

Immaculate Conception School Craft Fair goes Saturday Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3285 Cathedral Ave. Join the event for some holiday cheer and crafts to get a jump start on your holiday shopping while supporting local vendors.

An Evening with climate sci fi author Premee Mohamed goes Monday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. at Books & Co., 1685 Third Ave. Premee Mohamed is a multiple award-nominated Indo-Caribbean scientist and speculative fiction author based in Edmonton, Alberta. She is an assistant editor at the short fiction audio venue Escape Pod and the author of among others, the Beneath the Rising series, the Annual Migration of Clouds series, and Books & Co staff favourite, The Butcher of the Forest.

Artisan Fair presented by the Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George goes Saturday, Nov. 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at 1917 17th Ave. Showcasing fine arts and crafts for sale, offered by local merchants.

Alex Mackenzie’s Hungry for Laughs Comedy Tour goes Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at CN Centre. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary evening

of entertainment as the show returns to Prince George, now larger and more spectacular than ever. This exclusive event showcases two of Canada’s comedy giants, the swiftest rising star in Australian comedy, and a worldclass magician, ensuring an unparal leled show that caters to every taste. Partial proceeds of each ticket goes to a local charity. Tickets are at www. ticketsnorth.ca/event/hungry-for-laughs.

G2G Annual Tea, Bake Sale and Craft Fair goes Saturday, Nov. 30. Proceeds support the Stephen Lewis Foundation. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Our Saviours Lutheran Church, 3590 Dufferin Ave. (just off Ospika and Massey). Lots of parking.

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.

Prince George Farmers’ Market goes every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Third & Quebec until Oct. 26 where visitors will find about 100 vendors offering everything from local vegetables, ethically-raised grass-fed meats, baking, fruits, hot foods, coffee, honey, jams and jellies, preserves, and a wide variety of artisan products including jewellery and crafts.

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 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.

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

story is changed on a monthly basis to keep it fresh and exciting.

Trivia Night at Nancy O’s goes every other Wednesday at 8 p.m., 1261 Third Ave. There are three rounds per game, each round has five themed questions and five music questions. he winning team gets a custom Nancy O’s Trivia trophy and a round of drinks, their photo on the wall that goes into the winners’ book after two weeks. Those caught cheating will be publicly shamed and labelled as cheaters – good wholesome fun. Book a spot t 250-562-8066.

Omineca’s Coffee House Open Stage

is every Sunday, 369 Victoria St., from 3 to 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome to step up and share their talents, stories and art forms of all kinds including but not limited to musical, literary, comedic and performative expressions of our diverse community. Refreshments and snacks by donation. Sign up is on-site. There are some house instruments provided but feel free to bring your own creative tools for expression. First-timers and emerging artists are encouraged to experiment and collaborate with others. Please share and invite friends and family to build audience, engage and cheer on local artists in a fun, relaxed and safe environment.

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

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Miracle Theatre boosting seniors with plays by Norm Foster

Miracle theatre producer Anne Laughlin holds a picture of senior Judy Joudrey, who was evicted from her home when increases meant she could not cover her rent, at the kick-off a Miracle Theatre project scheduled to run March 17 to April 24, 2025 at Artspace. Laughlin and director/designer Ted Price announced Wednesday, Oct. 30 that they will be putting on a double-header of hit comedies by Canadian playwright Norm Foster. The plays, Lunenburg and Here On The Flight Path, will run March 27-April 24 at ArtSpace. Money raised from the projects will be used to create a Seniors Emergency Endowment Fund under the trusteeship of the Prince George Community Foundation with the annual earnings going to the Prince George Council of Seniors to provide support for the 17 per cent of the members of the local population who are 65 and older.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST

Thursday November 28th, 2024

8:00 am • PG Civic Centre • $50

Special Guest Speaker: Jasmit Phulka

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

Guest Speaker Sponsored by:

‘Tickled’

rescue pigs love those Jack-O-Lanterns

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Residents in the College Heights, Westgate and Vanway areas of Prince George were asked to donate their jack-O-Lanterns after Halloween to Prince George Tickled Pig Rescue because pigs love pumpkins.

This is the fifth year the pig rescue put out the call to the community, Kerri Hegel of PG Tickled Pig Rescue said. They have eight rescued pigs right now, including Kohkos, Mogli, Bonk who is blind and deaf, Petunia, who is the Hixon rest stop rescue, Tank, Big Red, a rescue from along the side of the highway in Clinton, L’il One and Ellie.

“I have three large freezers just to keep the pumpkins for the pigs,” Hegel said. “Some years we’re lucky and it’s cold enough so that we can just throw them in the yard and then every once

in a while we light a fire and roast some pumpkins for the pigs. It’s a real treat.”

Are pumpkins a piggie favourite?

“Yes, absolutely, and I know that because they will gobble them up before anything else and pigs love everything, right?” Hegel laughed. “But they do love pumpkins and it’s the perfect time to collect them as people throw their Jack-O-Lanterns into the garbage so we just ask people to take out any toothpicks, candles or wax, then we will come along and take them away for the pigs to enjoy.”

It’s the only time of year pumpkins are available, Hegel said, so it’s important for the pig rescue to offer the service both for the pigs and for community members, knowing they are making those little pigs happy during the winter.

“And why throw pumpkins in the garbage when the pigs can eat them?”

In Flanders Fields

BY JOHN MCCRAE

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

Citizen front page, Nov. 12, 1918

With no other source of news, this is how Prince George found out the First World War was over

The world war ended this morning at 6 o’clock Washington time, 11 o’clock Paris time. Armistice was signed by German representatives at midnight. This announcement was made by state department this morning. Announcement was made verbally by officials of state department in this form: Armistice been signed. It was signed at 5 o’clock a.m. Paris time.

There was no information as to the circumstances under which the armistice was signed,but since the German courier did not reach German military headquarters morning French time, it was generally assumed here that German envoys within French lines had been instructed by wireless to sign terms. Forty-seven hours had been required for courier to reach German headquarters and unquestionably several hours were necessary for examination of terms and decision.

It was regarded possible however that decision may have been made at Berlin and instructions transmitted from there by new German government.

Surrender terms include evacuation of invaded territories including Alsace-Lorraine and Luxenburg. The surrender of vast amounts of guns and equipment. The evacuation of the left bank of the Rhine. The surrender of all rolling stock in the occupied territory. The abandonment of the Bucharest and Brest-Livosk treaties. The unconditional surrender of all German forces in East Africa. Complete reparation for all damage done, with guarantees for their carrying out. Indemnities collected from invaded countries to be restored. The surrender of scores of submarines and larger war craft. The evacuation of all Black Sea ports and the restoration of Allied vessels.

Kaiser a fugitive

Within past few hours new Germany has been born. Today Kaiser Wilhelm who ruled his empire for many years with mailed fist and has for years dreamed a monstrous dream of a Teutonized world is a fugitive in Holland. With him is Crown Prince Frederick Wilhelm and practically the entire general

staff at military headquarters. Thus completely has militarism been swept away in a few hours. The entire civil government has also disappeared. Militarist regime has been followed by rule by combination of social democrats and soldiers and workmen’s councils which is now in control of practically the entire empire. The navy has also come under the new regime.

Saxony, Wurttemburg and Bavaria, three of four kingdoms of the empire, are declared republics, leaving all the kings of Germany without thrones. Frederick Ebert, socialist, who has succeeded Prince Max as Imperior Chancellor, and Phillip Scheidemann, leader of social democrats, have issued appeals on behalf of the new government promising peace as early as possible and asking people to avoid rioting and bloodshed. They promise government of the people by the people. Up to date revolution has been attended by remarkable little bloodshed. Armies will remain in field for some time till order is full restored and peace situation assured. London: Great rejoicing here.

Dutch soldier finds new life in PG

Bosnian War veteran says Remembrance Day serves as reminder of what Canadians did to free Holland from occupation in the Second World War

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

In the years Derk Grooten was a soldier with the Royal Dutch Army trying to maintain the fragile peace in war-torn Bosnia, the internet and smartphones were years from becoming a reality.

Mail service was his primary communication lifeline to home in Heiligerlee, in northern Holland, where his wife Rianne and their families lived and he got to know the letter carriers well.

“We did have email back then, but we didn’t have access to it,” said Grooten.

“In six months over there my wife wrote me over 100 letters. We had a competition to see who got the most letters and me and a buddy were head-to-head but he won, but that’s beside the fact.”

Grooten was 17 when he enlisted in the Royal Netherlands Army infantry division and he served two six-month tours to Bosnia in 1996 and 1997-98, right after the Dayton Agreement ended the threeand-a-half-year war over control of the territory now known as Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“The first one I was just 18, very young to be running around a country torn apart by war, trying to bring some peace to the people,” Grooten said. “There was a lot of responsibility put on our shoulders. We saw some stuff I think a person in my age category should not be seeing at that point in time.

“Overall, I came away pretty good, I didn’t run into too much trauma, but it was tough at some points.”

The Netherlands has long held a close connection with Canada because it was largely Canadian troops who liberated the country after five years of Nazi occupation in the Second Word War. The brutal oppression of the invading troops combined with a harsh winter that led to a famine in rural

Holland in the final year of the Second World War and the arrival of the Canadians and their chocolate bars and food rations was a joy that’s never been forgotten.

Since 1945, Canadians and Dutch people have never been in a situation where the freedoms of society are threatened by an opposing force whose aggressions leave no other choice but to get involved in a war and Grooten says Remembrance Day (which is celebrated in Holland on May 4) is the time to reflect on how fortunate the people of both countries are.

“Dutch people feel incredibly thankful for all the sacrifices that the Canadians brought to set them free from the Nazis,” said Grooten. “If it wasn’t for the Canadians the Dutch people would definitely be speaking German right now.

“Both my grandpapas were affected by the war in one way or other and it basically circled down to the family and that’s probably why I enlisted, to make a difference,” he said. “My father was involved in the military but he was not involved in conflict. We both served a five-year contract. I was in position to renew but I met my wife during that time and she went through the second tour with me and she said, ‘I’m not sure I can do that again,’ so I didn’t renew my contract.”

After his honourable discharge, Grooten worked seven years as manager of a liquor store before he went back to school to study to be a radiation therapist. A job offer from by the BC Cancer Centre of the North at UHNBC brought Grooten to Prince George in February 2013. The 47-year-old lives in the city with his wife Rianne, a speech and language pathologist, and their two teenaged children, Maegan, 16, and Shane, 13.

shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. We will remember them.

Derk Grooten was 17 when he enlisted in the Royal Netherlands Army infantry division. He served two six-month tours to Bosnia in 1996 and 1997-98

Remembrance Day memories

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Grooten’s time in the military left him with a more laid-back, don’t-sweatthe-small-stuff attitude. He admits he misses the close-knit relationships he built with his fellow soldiers, having spent all that time living with each other in sometimes stressful situations, and he realizes that’s a part of his life he’ll never replace.

“I think the camaraderie is something I really enjoyed, that’s hard to find in the civilian world,” he said. “Obviously at some point there are instances you put your life in their hands if you’re out on patrol and you have to trust the guy behind you that he has your back.”

For most of his first tour, from January-July 1996, before the United Nations peacekeepers brought the added safety of the Blue Berets, Grooten and his artillery unit felt more isolated and more exposed.

“For a young guy it was eye-opening; war doesn’t leave people in a good spot,” said Grooten. “I see young kids that had no houses, young kids without parents anymore and I see older people scraping the last little pieces of wood trying to get their houses heated. People using horses to get from one point to another because they didn’t have cars. Coming from Western Europe, it’s really hard to see that and put it in perspective.”

Derk Grooten’s artillery unit had set up a base within 800 metres of the “no weapons” demarcation line near Dobretici, Bosnia when they found a stray dog they named Sniper because she was always on their tail and never barked.

He quickly realized upon arriving in Bosnia, seeing how common it was to see people carrying AK47 rifles, that it was still a dangerous place.

“Ours is a young force, in NATO and the people enlisted, and you have to keep fighting parties apart where some people have been in wars for over 20 years,” he said. “So you’re over there as a young fellow trying to keep those guys apart and sometimes that’s overwhelming. You’re just a guest on their territory but you still have to uphold the laws that NATO put on them.”

In Grooten’s generation, conscription and military participation was still

mandatory for males after they reach age 18. Attendance was compulsory for military duty that lasted 12-18 months until it was phased out in May 1997 and the Dutch Army became strictly a volunteer force.

“You train for the worst-case scenario, which is a fighting mission,” he said. “We took off from Eindhoven Airport and I see my parents walk away in the dark and my dad looked over his shoulder at me and that’s when I feel like, ‘I might not ever see you guys again.’ That’s the overall feeling I had for the first couple weeks, just wondering what’s going to happen.

I was actually more scared when I was in Eindhoven than when we got deployed because your training takes over and the fear moves into the background. But those first couple months are tough.”

Based in a secured compound, practically every night he would hear shots fired and the occasional sound of an exploding grenade, sometimes close, sometimes distant.

During his second tour, a drunk driver tried to drive through the checkpoint and the thought crossed Grooten’s mind that he would have to raise his rifle and shoot at the vehicle in a split-second decision, but it never came to that. “You’re right on the edge of it, you never know if his car contains explosives or it’s just a drunk guy,” said Grooten.

One thing he wasn’t prepared for was the snow and cold and both his tours in Bosnia started in the coldest winter months.

“I was surprisingly cold in winters there,” he said. “We trained in Germany and it gets cold there, but the really hurtful cold I felt in Bosnia, there was nights we had to be on guard in an outpost and it was like minus 28 C and we were sleeping in sleeping bags that are rated only to -20 C. So you had to get out every two hours to make sure your blood was flowing.

“I had my wife’s letters to keep me warm.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Prince George Remembrance Day Schedule

On Remembrance Day, Monday, Nov. 11, we honour those who gave their lives to serve our country.

The City of Prince George and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43 mark the sombre occasion each year with ceremonies and a parade.

Indoor Ceremony

at the Civic Centre, 808 Canada Games Way

• Please be seated by 8:30 a.m.

• 9 a.m. MC Introductions

• Completion of indoor ceremony at 10:15am

Parade

• 10:15-10:30 a.m. assemble outside of Civic Centre, including all veterans

• 10:30-10:50 a.m. march to Cenotaph at Veterans Plaza in front of City Hall

• Flyover by Prince George Flying Club during parade

• Begin at Civic Centre, turn right on Seventh Avenue continue two blocks to City Hall Veterans Plaza.

Outdoor Ceremony at Veterans Plaza in front of City Hall

• 10:50 a.m. parade arrives at Cenotaph

CADETS

NIGHTS

• 10:50 a.m. MC Introductions, national anthem, etc.

• 11 a.m. Last Post (two minutes of silence)

• 11:07 a.m. Laying of wreaths (invitees will be laying wreaths at this time)

• Public will be allowed to lay poppies and wreaths after the parade leaves Veterans Plaza

• Poppies and wreaths will stay until 1 p.m. at which time they will be cleared away for safety purposes.

• Continue laying wreaths and saying prayers

• 11:25 a.m. MC thanks all in attendance

• 11:25 Parade Marshall – Reform Parade

• Parade to return on alternate route

• Depart Veterans Plaza on George Street towards Sixth Avenue, turn left on Sixth to march past Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, continuing to Dominion Street, turn left towards Seventh, turn right towards Canada Games Way, turn left to return to Civic Centre.

• 11:45 a.m. March off the colours and dismiss.

Please note: There will be no refreshments this year for the youth taking part in the parade.

All are welcome to gather at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, 1116 Sixth Ave.

Eleventh hour, eleventh day, eleventh month

Armistice Day or “Remembrance Day” as it has come to be known, originated following the end of the First World War.

The Armistice agreement was signed between Germany and the Allied Forces in Paris on Monday, Nov. 11, 1918 at 0500 hours (5 a.m.). The ceasefire went into effect at 1100 hours the same morning.

It was the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

The first Armistice Day was observed in 1919. On Nov. 6, in the House of Commons, the then acting Prime Minister of Canada, Sir George Foster, read a message from King George V addressed “to all peoples of the Empire.”

The following is his letter:

To all my people:

Tuesday next, Nov. 11, is the first anniversary of the armistice which stayed the world-wide carnage of the four proceeding years, and marked the victory of right and freedom.

I believe that my people in every part of the Empire fervently wish to perpetuate the memory of that

great deliverance and of those who laid down their lives to achieve it.

To afford an opportunity for the universal expression of this feeling it is my desire and hope that at the hour when the Armistice came into force, the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, there may be for the brief space of two minutes, a complete suspension of all our normal activities.

During that time, except in rare cases where this may be impractical, all work, all sound and all locomotion should cease, so that in perfect stillness the thoughts of every one may be concentrated on reverent remembrance of the glorious dead.

- King George V

In Canada, from sea to sea, at precisely 11 a.m. local time, all businesses, factories, schools, offices and even traffic came to a halt for the two minutes of silence.

The tradition continues to this day, more than a century later.

The 11th Hour, The 11th Day, The 11th Month

Honour their sacrifice with two minutes of silent reflection.

Running for Remembrance

SUBMITTED

of a group of runners that

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 is when armistice was declared and the guns of the First World War fell silent. It was supposed to be the war to end all wars and next Monday’s Remembrance Day ceremonies will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices soldiers around the world have made to try to keep world peace.

At 2 a.m. Monday, while most Prince George people are sleeping, participants in the fourth annual Remembrance Day Run will gather with their headlamps and sneakers in the Prince George Aquatic centre parking lot to begin an 11-kilometre run through the city streets.

The group run (it’s not a race) is a physical way to commemorate all those heroes who have fallen in the line of duty.

We don’t know them all... but we owe them all. Lest we forget

Race organizer Derk Grooten, a former artilleryman with the Royal Dutch Army, now works as a radiation therapist at the BC Cancer Centre for the North, having immigrated to Prince George from The Netherlands with his wife and two children in March 2013.

He’s participated in the city’s traditional Remembrance Day ceremonies every year since 2014 but wanted a more personal challenge for younger veterans to help them remember what our soldiers from past generations endured fighting for our freedom.

“We don’t have that knowledge any more about those missions because all of the people who did those missions are not there anymore, they can’t tell those stories anymore, so the younger generations are not constantly shown those stories,” said Grooten.

“We see good numbers here in Prince George for the traditional

ceremonies but I feel like eventually that if you look across the board the Remembrance Day numbers will be trailing off and we need to be aware and create awareness, so that does not happen.”

What started in 2021 as an idea he had one week in advance of Remembrance Day that year brought out just eight runners and has doubled each year since, to 16 in 2022 and 32 last year.

This year the target is 77 runners, a number pitched to Grooten by his friend, Scott McWalter, who suggested they try to match the year in which Grooten was born.

“I said to Scott, ’77 is also the year a lot of the younger veterans were born,” said Grooten. “We always think of the veterans as the World War 1, World War 2 or Korean War veterans, but those guys are not really around anymore. There are couple maybe in Prince George that are around that range but other than that it’s all these junior veterans that we’re honouring who established peace in parts of the world.”

Grooten learned recently somebody in Victoria has picked up on his idea and plans to run a 2 a.m. group running event as well on Remembrance Day.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the young generations that need to be told and taught that everyday freedom we have in Canada can’t be taken for granted, it doesn’t come for free,” Grooten said.

The route for the run includes the cenotaph at Veterans Plaza at City Hall and will lead runners past the Prince George RCMP downtown detachment on Victoria Street, the Royal Canadian Legion No. 43 at 1116 Sixth Ave., and the Prince George Fire Rescue No. 1 hall on Massey Drive. The run finishes at the Aquatic Centre.

For more information email derkgrooten@yahoo.com.

PHOTO

Dutch military veteran Derk Grooten was part

passed by the fire hall on Massey Drive during the 2022 Remembrance Day Run. The fourth annual event starts Monday, Nov. 11 at 2 a.m. at the Prince George Aquatic Centre.

Veteran performers and raw talent hit the stage

A new production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street comes to Prince George

CHRISTINE

DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Sometimes there’s a small show in a giant space but this time it’s a giant show in a small space, as Judy Russell explains her presentation of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Vanier Hall from Friday, Nov. 15 to Sunday, Nov. 17.

The Prince George Symphony Orchestra will share the multi-level stage during the production, which is a cutting-edge approach to traditional theatre.

The 12+ piece orchestra, including a harp, will be on the main stage with a two-foot riser on the perimeter that’s four feet wide and another up the centre stage line where the actors will perform, and of course, actors will also be on the mainstage front and centre.

Background set will be on yet another elevated level and the apron of the stage will be 16 inches lower still.

Visually, it’s a stunning set to complement the symphony and triple-threat performers.

“It’s going to be cool for you as audience members, not so cool for us as we navigate the stage in a whole new way,” Russell smiled.

“The conductor, Michael Hall, will be stage, and that’s where he’ll live but then at times he will have almost 40 people running around him like street rats. So it’s going to be very intense.”

Sweeney Todd is a Stephen Sondheim masterpiece, Russell said.

“The music is dark, haunting, incredible and sometimes discordant,” she added. “He’s written the evil in and it’s delightful because the evil is in and the beautiful is in, also. Some stunning, stunning music that haunts me – it wasn’t in my ear until I started to really work on it and now I can’t get it out of my head because it’s so beautiful.”

It’s a heartbreaking story of lust, lasciviousness, murder, wrong doing and vengeance, Russell added.

The cast is filled with experienced and not-so-experienced performers.

David Leach reprises the role of

Sweeney Todd from 16 years ago, knowing he is coming into the part better equipped for the family-man role as he’s married with a teen-aged daughter.

Shelby Meaney reprises her role of Johanna from 20 years ago, while Chase Warmerdam, 17, Duchess Park Secondary School student, takes on the role of Tobias Ragg.

“I’ve been at Judy’s studio for four or five years now,” Warmerdam said. “It had mostly just been dance and I have done The Nutcracker with her twice now and it’s been wonderful and I’d never been in a big production like this one before.”

Chase said it’s been an honour to work with all the veteran performers who are in this musical theatre blockbuster.

“It’s been challenging to expand my vocal range and Robin (Norman, music director) has been helping me with that a lot,” Chase said.

“She’s helping me hit those high notes. The whole show is so different and unique – the whole staging of it –it’s not very often you see the way this show is staged with the full orchestra on stage along with the performers. I know it will be quite cool.”

Robin Norman just met Chase for the

first time during rehearsals of Sweeney Todd

“Chase is hoping to go on after he graduates and so he’s been working really hard and starting to do some serious voice training now,” Norman said.

“This is his first major role. He came into this role with so much raw talent, and Sweeney Todd is such a hard sing and he’s taking on some big notes so we’re working on some technical things and he’s doing great.”

Sweeney Todd goes Friday, Nov. 15 to Sunday, Nov. 17 at Vanier Hall. For more information and tickets visit www.pgso. com/concerts/Sweeney-Todd.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

David Leach as Sweeney Todd sings of the urges and desires flowing through him as he prepares to shave Judge Turpin (Jim Anderson) in rehearsal for the Judy Russell production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street to run Nov. 15-17 at Vanier Hall.

Throwback Thursday: Week of November 7

Nov. 7, 1992: Richard Huard of Northern Steel demonstrates one of the skills of the professional, walking a narrow piece of steel which will be part of the support of the roof of the new Civic Centre. To the left, Al Cyr attaches steel truss plates. Soon this metal spiderweb will be invisible, hidden by the roof workers hope to complete before the snow falls.

Nov. 9, 2010: Sacred Heart students Victoria Blanis, 6, left, Niall Caffrey, 6, Kourtney Forrest, Julianna Ferguson, 12, and others pay close attention to John Scott of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, president of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United National Peacekeeping, during a Remembrance Day presentation at the school.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVID MAH

Nov. 7, 1966: The Citizen Sailing Trophy was awarded to Bob Skinner and Fred Cashman, who picked up the most points during the Geary 18 races held earlier in the fall. Skinner also won the 1965 trophy, that time with his father as crew.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

Nov. 7, 1980: Barry Watts pulls wife Margaret in an unusual vehicle given to him as a farewell present by his fellow pipefitters at Prince George Pulp. When he announced he was quitting his job to buy into a taxi business, the others built him this rickshaw, complete with driver’s outfit.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DOUG WELLER

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVE MILNE

On All Hallow’s Eve

Zoe Ellison, 13, left (Richie Tozier from “It”), Mia Bolderson, 14, (Eddie Kaspbrak), Katie Lamont, 14, (Pennywise) and Tessa Truman, 14, (unicorn skeleton) go trick-ortreating in College Heights on Thursday, Oct. 31. The four had just left RC Manor. The streets of Prince George were filled with trick-or-treaters on Halloween Night, and many local homes were decorated in spooky fashion for the occasion.

Downtown public library branch now open Sundays

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Hey library fans, here’s a bit of good news.

For the first time in four years, since the pandemic hit, the Prince George Public Library will be open on Sunday and will remain a seven-days-per week operation at the downtown Bob Harkins branch. The new Sunday hours will be noon-4 p.m.

“Prince George Public Library is committed to increasing access to library services. It’s important that everyone in our community is able to fully enjoy and benefit from what the library has to offer,” said library director Paul Burry.

“By opening on Sunday, Bob Harkins Branch will now be available to the community seven days a week.”

The Prince George Public Library has served the city and surrounding communities since 1955 and the Bob Harkins branch at 888 Canada Games Way, has been open since 1981.

The Harkins branch is also open Monday and Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Nechako branch in Hart Shopping Mall at 6547 Hart Highway is open Monday-Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. It will remain closed on Sundays.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library is located at Canada Games Plaza.

Healthy North

Vision Zero BC

Have an idea to create safer roads? The Vision Zero Road Safety Grant Program provides up to $20,000 for projects on improving vulnerable road user safety. This program supports initiatives that will make road access more equitable for all British Columbians. We are excited to offer a provincial webinar to provide more information about the program and answer questions about the application process. Apply at: Visionzerobc.ca

Applications close November 29, 2024

Respiratory Illness Season

Respiratory illness season is here. Getting vaccinated and practicing healthy habits helps to protect you, your loved ones, and our health care system.

• Get your up-to-date flu and COVID-19 vaccines

• Clean your hands well and often

• Stay home if you’re sick

• Wear a mask if you have cold/flu symptoms, or are getting over an illness

• Cover your coughs and sneezes

It’s fast, easy, and free to get vaccinated and people can choose to get flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. Not in the Get Vaccinated system yet? Register now at Gov.bc.ca/Respiratory-Illness, or phone the call centre at 1-833-838-2323 to book or ask questions.

Myeloma support group recognized for fundraising

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The Northern BC Myeloma Support Group has been recognized by its parent national organization for going the extra mile in its Myeloma March at Otway Nordic Centre, Sept. 16.

The event raised more than $27,000, making it Myeloma Canada’s seventh-most successful group for fundraising.

That more than doubled the goal of $10,000 for the event.

“The Northern BC Myeloma Support Group would like to send the Prince George community a huge thank you for the support we received during our recent fund raiser; the 16th annual Myeloma March,” said group volunteer Vivian Lougheed in a media release.

“Not only did we receive financial support and in-kind gifts that amounted to double our goal, but the media brought so much attention to our event that resulted in over 100 people

Participants in the Northern BC Myeloma Support Group’s Myeloma March, Sept. 16 at Otway Nordic Centre gather for a group shot. The group included Wei Chen, Hyunseo Kim, Briana Greer, Nadia Mansour, Ronja Frank, and Katalin Illés. Ian Garvie, Ahmad Jalil, Caleb Mueller, Sheila Myshrall, Calin Claassens, Brendan Yost, Behrouz Danesh, and Michale Bracken.

participating at the walk. And, we now have new members who, I hope, will find the support they and their care givers and families may need.”

Multiple myeloma is a rare form

blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and that affects just seven of 100,000 people in North America.

The disease affects the plasma cells in the blood that are part of the body’s

immune system.

Normally, the plasma cells are white blood cells that build antibodies that fight infection.

Multiple myeloma causes abnormalities that multiply and produce defective antibodies that impact the body’s ability to make white and red blood cells and platelets which causes adverse effects on the bones and kidneys.

“The finances raised will go to more research so maybe, in our lifetime, they will find a cure,” said Lougheed. “In the meantime, Myeloma Canada assists and supports those afflicted with the condition.”

The local myeloma support group meets every third Saturday of the month from 1-3 p.m. at the Columbus Community Centre in College Heights at 27201 St. Lawrence Ave.

For more information email northernbcsupport@myeloma.ca or call Vivian at 250-561-7099.

You can also visit Myeloma Canada’s website, www.myeloma.ca.

New symposium to focus on mental health, addictions

CITIZEN STAFF

The North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA), Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, City of Prince George, and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George are set to co-host the 2024 Mental Health and Addictions Symposium, titled A Pathway Forward, on Wednesday, Nov. 13 and Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024.

The event will be held at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre.

The symposium aims to facilitate meaningful discussions around mental health and addictions, featuring a diverse lineup of presenters and experts from the field.

The program includes keynote speeches, plenary panel discussions, and six concurrent sessions, enabling participants to engage with community leaders and representatives from both local and Indigenous governments. Highlighted speakers include:

• Corey Hirsch, former NHL goaltender and Olympic silver medalist

• Dr. Barbara Kane, head of the psychiatry department at University Hospital of Northern British Columbia

• Janine Stevenson and Andrea Durban from the Community Action Initiative

• Art Reynolds from BC Construction Safety Alliance and Ian Robb, chair of the Alberta Building Trades

• Dr. Paul Farnan, clinical associate professor at UBC

• Mike Skrypnek and Andrea Paquette from Stigma-Free Mental Health Society

• Acasia Preston, Raelene Hodgson, and Colleen Purcka from Foundry BC

• Laura Honey and Julia Hintermeister from Saplings Mental Health

In addition to the presentations, the Symposium will host tradeshow booths for resource and service agencies to showcase their offerings, promote networking, and foster connections with community leaders and officials. Interested parties can contact Heidi Martel at hmartel@nclga.ca for tradeshow booth inquiries.

One outcome of the Symposium will be the signing of the Mental Health and Addictions Accord, where participants will commit to principles and actions aimed at enhancing mental well-being and addressing substance misuse in their communities.

NCLGA president Judy Greenaway emphasized the Symposium’s importance, stating, “The program promises impactful discussions and insightful dialogue, providing opportunities for information-sharing, partnership building, and advancing joint advocacy and policy development.”

The symposium will take place at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre, 808 Canada Games Way. It runs from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14.

For more information on registration, tradeshow booths, and sponsorship opportunities, visit the 2024 Mental Health and Addictions Symposium website, www.nclga.ca, or email admin@ nclga.ca.

Established in 1955, the NCLGA is the advocacy body for local government officials from 100 Mile House to the Yukon border and from Haida Gwaii to Alberta. The association represents more than 240 elected officials across 42 local governments. The NCLGA is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the region, including those related to mental health and addictions.

Local Sports Viliam Kmec proving his value as blueline workhorse

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

It’s a good thing they give hockey players a 20-minute break between periods on game nights.

It seemed like that’s about the only time Prince George Cougars defenceman Viliam Kmec left the ice.

Kmec was the ironman back there, the seasoned veteran who has been through many WHL battles and came out on top again on Tuesday, Oct. 29. When the Cougars needed him to shut down the Moose Jaw Warriors, the 20-year-old Slovakian got the job done.

He laid down the building blocks of a 4-1 victory over the defending league champs. Playing well over 35 minutes, with the Cougars missing two of their regulars on the blueline and one just returning from injury, Kmec made the right decisions under fire while drawing all the toughest assignments and it set the tone for the rest of the Cougars.

“I’m amazed at how hard he plays, he’s just full of energy,” said Cougars head coach and general manager Mark Lamb. “He’s playing 35 or 40 minutes of hard hockey and he’s still got energy.

“It’s really good for the team, they really came back low (to defend) and we’ve got to play like that. It’s winning hockey.”

Kmec, who stands six-foot-two and weighs 214 points, is stronger and faster on his feet than he was last season. Now with three goals and 11 assists, he ranks fourth in team scoring and is well on pace to eclipse the nine goals and 25 assists he had in 58 games last season. He was held to one assist in that Oct. 29 game but he’s not focused on his own points, only on what the Cougars gain in the standings.

“We have a lot of young guys and obviously they play, too, but there’s a lot of situations where Jimmy (assistant coach Playfair) just trusts me and puts me out there with their top line. I’m just trying to play my best and it’s good.”

Playfair said Kmec is playing a key role.

“This is really good for the organization,” said Playfair. “We had veterans last year and we had a successful season and now we’ve got young kids and we have to figure out how to have a successful season with the young kids. Because what they will be able to do if they learn the right way and do the right way, we should get three or four years out of these kids doing things right. We see that they can be good players today and grow into great players in the future, so we’ve got to get them playing.”

Kmec said the off-season helped him better his performance.

“Obviously I’m a year older and trained really hard in the summer and gained a lot more speed and tried to work on the details and do things right

defensively and offensively as well.”

The Vegas Golden Knights think Kmec is on the right track and that’s why they signed him in September to a three-year entry-level contract after they invited him to their training camp.

“It’s been a great couple months, it’s been one of the best things that’s happened to me and I’m grateful for it,” said Kmec. “It just keeps my motivation high to practice and to play and to get better each day.”

“It was great to see those guys and how it works there and see the level I want to get. I think I played well there and that’s why they signed me.”

It was a bit of a surprise when the Golden Knights sent him back to junior and that created a logjam of 20-yearolds that forced the Cougars to make the trade that sent overager Carlin Dezainde to Swift Current.

“I think he defends real hard, he’s strong on pucks, he’s real comfortable in the game and he recognizes he’s got a real important role with us,” Playfair said. “He’s on the power play, he’s on the penalty kill, he’s an important 5-on-5 player, he’s a shutdown player for us, and these are all experiences that he’s going to have to have when he goes on to pro hockey.

“I’m not concerned about his points, I’m concerned about his plus/minus, his consistency and his habits and I think that’s where he’s done a good job maybe calming his game down a bit and not trying to chase the offence. He’s not going to be a point-producer for the Vegas Golden Knights, he’s going to be a real solid defender who’s going to create points by having good instincts and the points are going to come.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Cougars defenseman Viliam Kmec battles with Warriors forward Noah Degenstein for the puck Tuesday, Oct. 29 at the CN Centre.

Jared Young happy for World Series MVP Freeman

The Prince George pro baseball player was once a teammate with the Dodgers star

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Watching Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Freddie Freeman make baseball history with his incredible MVP hitting display in the World Series brought back the memories for Prince George native Jared Young.

In March 2023, Young and Freeman were teammates playing for Canada in the World Baseball Classic.

“That was amazing, he was absolutely the star of that team and carried himself in a great way, he was super-humble and a good dude – he’s a really down-toearth guy,” said Young.

Seeing Freeman on the practice field in Arizona was an eyeopener for Young and the rest of the Canadian squad.

“If you watched his practice and his work, he had it down to a science, what he was doing, and it wasn’t a lot,” said Young. “Everything he did was for a purpose and he was very good at it.

“I was super-lucky to play with him. If you watch him, you can take stuff from it. He’s one of the best players in baseball and he chose to play for Canada and I think that means a lot. When you get a hall of famer and MVP who wants to play for Canada that’s pretty special.”

Freeman has done it all in a 15-year career that started with the Braves. He’s an eight time all-star who was chosen as National League MVP in 2020. He’s also a Gold Glover and Silver Slugger destined for the Hall of Fame once he retires.

“Freddie played amazing, he carried the team basically the whole series,” said Young. “His rap sheet kind of speaks for itself, he’s one of the best players in baseball.”

Despite all his accolades and achievements Freeman is also incredibly humble and in a poll of MLB players this year he was voted the friendliest infielder to chat with on the bases.

Freeman was picked to play for Team USA in the 2019 and 2023 World Baseball Classic tournaments but his parents were both from Canada. He chose to

in eight runs while going 5-for-6 at the plate.

In 38 games with the Bears he hit .326 with 10 home runs

“For me it was super-different but it was also very positive,” said Young, from his home in Scottsdale, Ariz.

“Flying across the world and changing teams in the middle of the year, it was all new, and I wanted to get off to a hot start but I wanted to make sure I didn’t press. To get some hits early and contribute felt really good it made me feel like part of the team. Everyone knows switching teams isn’t easy but the way to make it the best is to play well.”

The Bears climbed in the standings with Young in the lineup and made the playoffs, finishing fourth, but were eliminated in the first playoff round.

wear the maple leaf in honour of his late mother, a native of Peterborough, Ont, who died of skin cancer when he was 10.

That couple weeks Young spent with Freeman preparing for the tournament games in Phoenix made a huge impression on Young, who at the time was with the Chicago Cubs’ triple-A farm team in Iowa.

“I played with (Freeman) first and then I got called up (to Chicago) later that year and played with Dansby Swanson and Cody Bellanger, who played with him as well, and they were like, ‘What was it like playing with Freddie?’ because he doesn’t do a lot in practice, but everything he does is perfect,” said Young, who played in the WBC at left field and as designated hitter.

“They just asked me what I thought and I just said, ‘it’s pretty crazy’ and they said, “Yeah, it’s crazy.’ Hearing that from other great players, it was like wow. They think of him as a great player, and that was something cool. Every time I watch him I think the same thing; everyone thinks he’s the best.

“He’s super-good and he’s doing it every time, and the true test of a really good player is consistency. In his career he’s won every award except for rookie

of the year, so that’s a testament to being really consistent.”

After Canada beat Great Britain they came up against the powerful Americans in a sold-out Chase Field in Phoenix.

Canada was trailing 9-0 when Young started off the second inning with a towering home run. It was the only run of the game for Canada in a 12-1 loss.

“The major leagues and the World Baseball Classic is playing the best against the best and that’s when you really want to shine,” said Young.

“That was sweet. My whole family was down there to watch, so that was cool, and had some friends from (Prince George) that also went to the game. It was an awesome moment, it’s a while ago now. But definitely, watching Freddie crank homers it definitely brings up some memories.”

After seven years in the Cubs organization, Young was claimed Nov. 6, 2023 in the waiver draft by the St. Louis Cardinals and played 74 games this year for the triple-A Memphis Redbirds. Released on July 30, he signed as a free agent and went to Korea to play in the Korean Baseball Organization for the Doosan Bears and was an immediate hit with the fans in Seoul. In his second game he hit two home runs and drove

“That was a bummer, we were the higher seed and lost, but it’s a ton to learn from,” he said.

“The team was good, and I think even individually, going to Korea and having some success and playing some playoff baseball, I think you can only learn and get better from it.”

As one of only three imports on the team, the language barrier was also a hindrance to Young, trying to communicate with coaches and teammates, but his interpreter, Wu Yun ‘Alberto’ Choi, was by his side constantly.

“He’s a great guy, he was literally attached to my hip from the time I got to the field until I would leave, and it was a lot on him, just because I couldn’t talk to anybody,” he said.

Young lived in the Gangnam District in downtown Seoul, a city of 10 million.

“It’s an electric place because of all the people and it was a lot of fun,” Young said.

Young, 29, is now a free agent and doesn’t know where he’ll end up playing, but he certainly would return to Korea if the right offer is made.

“I would love to go back, but there’s lot of stuff to iron out,” he said. “I feel like I still have a lot left in me. I’m still loving it, I’m still really enjoying everything that I do. I feel like every year I’m just getting going.”

HANDOUT PHOTO

Jared Young of Prince George high-fives Team Canada manager Ernie Whitt while first baseman Freddie Freeman (No.5) stands to the left of Young before the start of their opening game at the World Baseball Challenge against Great Britain March 12, 2023 in Phoenix, Ariz.

Life Events

Jennifer Fletcher

June 17, 1935 - October 23, 2024

Jennifer Fletcher, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024 at the age of 89 at Vancouver General Hospital after residing in Delta for the past three years.

Born on June 17, 1935 in Colchester, England, she lived a life filled with love, outdoor adventures, and travel. Jennifer started adventuring at an early age. Orphaned at 15, she studied shorthand and worked as a secretary to Agatha Christie’s archaeologist husband in London. She then travelled by steamship to Quebec, launching several years of working and travelling through the US. While Jennifer was working in Vancouver and saving to travel to Australia, she had a whirlwind romance with Alfred (Al) Fletcher, marrying within 3 months of meeting. Jane and Mark were born in Penticton. Al’s job with Texaco took them to Prince George in 1965, where they built a house and welcomed Elisabeth and Sara to the family. Beloved dogs Rory, Silver and Muskwa, as well as cats Dudley, Jessica, Graycee and Tabitha were also important parts of Jennifer’s life.

Family life revolved around sailing and racing with the PG Yacht Club on Cluculz Lake, and skiing and racing at Purden Mountain. Jennifer provided secretarial support at the Child Development Centre and enjoyed playing tennis, sewing and knitting, listening to classical music, reading, and avoiding housework as well as forced social interactions. She would drop everything if the opportunity arose to have more

with the Sons of Norway Ski Touring Club. She joined hut-to-hut ski tours in Norway seven times, kayaked in Haida Gwaii, rafted the Tatshenshini River, canoed the Turner and Bowron lake chains and Murtle Lake, as well as slept in a snow cave, biked forestry roads, and enjoyed countless other hiking, skiing, biking and paddling trips. Her travels included visits to Norway, Sweden, Austria, England, Scotland, Australia, India, Japan, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, Botswana, China, Hawaii and many lakes, trails and roads throughout BC.

She is survived by her children Jane, Mark (Alison), Elisabeth (Nick) and Sara (Patrick), beloved grandchildren Chelsea (Ryan), Patrick (Allie), Nicola, Marliese, Nicholas, Owen and Aidan, and relatives in England.

She was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Ivy Banham, her husband Alfred, her brother Peter Banham, and fellow adventurer Bjorn. Her legacy of outdoor recreation and love of travel will live on in the hearts and activities of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Caledonia Ramblers, Humane Society, or the Prince George Public Library, to reflect her love of hiking, animals and books.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Otway Nordic Centre on Sunday, December 1st 2024,

Phil and Mary Rolls

It is with great sadness that we announce the deaths of dear friends Phil and Mary Rolls, who died, as they wished, on September 30, 2024 in Red Deer, Alberta. They leave behind their family, Cheryl and Kyra, Michael, Trish, Jeremy and Logan, Michelle, and dog, Mindy. Both were well known in Prince George for their businesses and involvement in the Community. Those who knew them best will be forever grateful for their friendship. No service by request.

May Edna Bjorklund (Swain)

May Edna Bjorklund (Swain) born in Prince Albert, Sask March 16, 1943 Passed peacefully on October 20, 2024 at the age of 81 in Prince George, BC

She is survived by her children Lloyd (Ruby), Donna, Duwayne, Cheryl (Mike), Curtis, her sisters Ina, Lila, Patsy and grandchildren and many other family members and friends.

Honouring

those who have touched our lives

It is with deep sadness and sorrow that our family announces the passing of the ‘heart’ of our family: Lillian Parent passed peacefully on September 24, 2024.

Lillian Parent

July 31, 1929 - September 24, 2024

She was Born on July 31, 1929 in Birch Hill, Saskatchewan, the sixth child of ten and the last one to go. As a young girl she loved school and was a wizard with all maths and because of this her family sent her to boarding school where she graduated at the top of her grade 13 class. She then went on to teacher’s training and at the young age of 18 was teaching grades 1-13 in a one room school.

Lillian met, fell in love and married Romeo Parent (predeceased Jan. 26, 2022) in Zenon Park, Sask. on Aug. 30, 1950. They moved to Prince George in 1951 and settled into the Fyfe Lake logging and sawmill community where many young Saskatchewan people were starting new lives.

In 1952 the first of their seven daughters was born and Prince George became home and where their family was raised.

Lillian spent many years as a CWL member, supporting the church that she also dearly loved and was also a substitute teacher for many years specializing in all forms of Math and French. She also did all of the bookkeeping for the logging business that Romeo and his brothers started.

Through all of this, she drove her girls to school functions, sports, music lessons, swimming lessons,

after school jobs,helped with homework , cooked, cleaned etc. and never once complained; it wasn’t her way! That’s how she lived her entire life.

Lillian leaves behind a large family: Daughters: Diane (Darrell); Lucille (Ray); Margaret (John); Lorette (Harry); Janet (deceased)(Bob); Murielle( Tony), & Suzanne (Orlando), 18 Grandchildren; 22 Great Grandchildren and 5 Great, Great Grandchildren. She is also survived by BIL Maurice (Pauline) and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Lillian’s Celebration of life will be held on her birthday, July 31, 2025 and start with Mass at Immaculate Conception Church at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow at Darrell and Diane’s.

Her last message to her family was: “TELL THEM, I LOVE YOU ALL!”

She will be greatly missed!

As a family, we wish to thank Simon Fraser Lodge & Staff for their kindness, compassion, and the excellent care that was provided. Thank You!

It is with deep sadness that we the family of Judy Kingsford announce her peaceful passing at the age of 79 at Rotary Hospice House surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

As you may know her journey to this point was long and difficult but through it all Judy had a positive attitude and was grateful for the care she received along the way.

Judy was predeceased by her parents Rod and Alma Kingsford and brother Ian all of New Zealand.

She is survived by her sister Chuffy Wallace (Patrick) Kamloops, BC., many nieces and nephews and by long time friend Judy Bulpin.

Judy came to Canada in the late 60’s and began her teaching career in Prince George at Carney Hill School - never expecting to be there until retiring in 2001. She realized early on that this school was a special place. Many children passed through her class and nothing made her happier than reconnecting in later years with her former students.

Please join us for a celebration of Judy’s life at Assman’s Funeral Home on 1908 Queensway on

Judy Kingford

FREE PALLETS

Pallets for pick-up every Thursday.

Call 250.562.2441 for availability.

NOTICE OF AGM

Friends of the Prince George Public Library Society will hold its Annual General Meeting in the Mini-Conference Room at the Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library, at 888 Canada Games Way, Prince George, at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Interested people may attend the Annual General Meeting in person or by video conference. If you would like to attend by videoconference, please send an email indicating that preference to lilareynolds9@gmail.com before Thursday, November 21, 2024, and we will forward you a link and instructions on how to attend by video conference.

BAILIFF SALE

NORTH CENTRAL BAILIFFS LTD.

www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca

The Bailiff offers FOR SALE PURSUANT TO WAREHOUSE LIEN ACT(S), the interest of Goodvin, Charles William (the debtors) in the following goods:

2010 YAMAHA

JYACJ15C0AA007041

To View contact North Central Bailiffs Ltd until November 21th, 2024, bids will be accepted on the units until November 21th, 2024. Goods to be sold as is where is. Bidder takes responsibility to ensure they are satisfied with the description of unit/ goods being sold. North Central Bailiffs Ltd. is not responsible for determining the correct model year or description. Terms of sale: Immediate full payment upon successful bid, plus sales tax. www.northcentralbailiffs.bc.ca

North Central Bailiffs Ltd.

Court Bailiff Jenn M.

In accordance with the Forest Range and Practices Act, Canadian Forest Products Ltd. (Canfor) invites the public to review its Forest Operations Maps (FOM ID: 1965) in the Prince George Natural Resource District. The FOM describes areas proposed for Cutting Permit and Road Permit development within the next three years starting on December 8th, 2024, and ending on November 8th, 2027. We welcome your comments and feedback during the one-month review period starting November 8th, 2024, and ending December 8th, 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 completed at the following location during regular office hours (Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM):

5162 Northwood Pulpmill Road, P.O. Box 9000, Prince George BC V2L 4W2

Comments may also be submitted by mail to the above address or submitted via phone or email at: 1-250-962-3512; pg.fom.comment@canfor.com

CANADIAN FOREST PRODUCTS LTD.

NOTICE FOR NON-INDIVIDUAL CLAIMANTS OF CLAIMS PROCEDURE AND CREDITORS’ MEETINGS IN THE CCAA PROCEEDINGS OF:

IMPERIAL TOBACCO CANADA LIMITED and IMPERIAL TOBACCO COMPANY LIMITED (together, “Imperial”); ROTHMANS, BENSON AND HEDGES INC. (“RBH”); and JTI-MACDONALD CORP. (“JTIM”)

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR INDIVIDUAL CLAIMANTS: Individuals who have suffered damages resulting from the use or consumption of Tobacco Products, including cigarettes, do not need to do anything at this time to preserve their rights. If the CCAA Plans are approved, separate claims processes will commence at a later date for individuals to file claims for compensation. Accordingly, this notice is solely for non-Individual Claimants.

All capitalized terms in this notice have the meanings ascribed to them in the CCAA Plans, which can be found on the Monitors’ Websites, links for which are provided at the end of this notice. A more detailed version of this notice is also available on the Monitors’ Websites.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 17, 2024, the Court-Appointed Mediator in the CCAA Proceedings of Imperial, RBH and JTIM (the “Tobacco Companies”), together with the Monitors of the Tobacco Companies, filed a CCAA Plan in respect of each Tobacco Company.

PLEASE ALSO TAKE NOTICE that on October 31, 2024, the CCAA Court issued (i) a Claims Procedure Order, which sets forth the process pursuant to which Claimants and Putative Miscellaneous Claimants, if any, may attend the Meetings and vote on the CCAA Plans; and (ii) a Meeting Order that, amongst other things, accepts the filing of the CCAA Plans and establishes the date and times of the Meetings of Affected Creditors to vote on such CCAA Plans.

(i) The CCAA Plans

The CCAA Plans provide for the payment over time by the Tobacco Companies of a Global Settlement Amount of $32.5 billion, which is to be allocated between the Claimants (and the Miscellaneous Claims Fund); namely, the Quebec Class Action Plaintiffs (QCAPs), Pan-Canadian Claimants (PCCs), Knight Class Action Plaintiffs, the Provinces and Territories, certain Tobacco Producers, as well as a public charitable foundation (Cy-près Foundation).

The CCAA Plans also provide, from the Global Settlement Amount, for the establishment of a Miscellaneous Claims Fund to provide potential distributions to Putative Miscellaneous Claimants, being Persons other than Claimants or Individual Claimants, who purport to have a Miscellaneous Claim against one or more of the Tobacco Companies.

(ii) The Claims Procedure

The Claims Procedure Order sets forth the process pursuant to which (i) Claimants and (ii) Putative Miscellaneous Claimants, if any, may attend and vote at the Meetings. It provides that:

• Each Claimant shall be issued a Statement of Negative Notice Claim. Unless the statement is varied in accordance with the Claims Procedure Order, the Claimant shall be entitled to vote at the Meetings based on the value and number of votes set forth in the statement; and

• All Persons asserting a Miscellaneous Claim for the purpose of attending the Meetings and voting on the CCAA Plans must file a Miscellaneous Claimant Proof of Claim with the Monitor by no later than 5pm (Eastern Time) on December 5, 2024 (the Miscellaneous Claims Bar Date). The Claims Package for such Persons is available on each of the Monitors’ Websites.

Please note that Individual Claimants are not required to take any actions at this time to preserve their rights.

Please note that the value of an Affected Claim as set forth in a Statement of Negative Notice or in a Miscellaneous Claimant Proof of Claim is for voting purposes only. All entitlements to distributions from the Global Settlement Amount shall be in accordance with the CCAA Plans.

(iii) The Meeting Order

The Meetings to vote on the CCAA Plans shall be held by videoconference as follows:

Tobacco Company

Imperial

Meeting Date and Time

December 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

December 12, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.

December 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m

Please note that all Individual Claimants (or groups of Individual Claimants) will be represented at the Meetings by either the Quebec Class Counsel or the PCC Representative Counsel. Accordingly, Individual Claimants may not file a Miscellaneous Claimant Proof of Claim, attend the Meetings, nor vote on their own behalf.

(iv) Monitors’ Contact Information

For further information, please consult the Monitors’ Websites or contact them at: Tobacco Company Monitor’s Contact Details

Imperial FTI Consulting Canada Inc.

Website: http://cfcanada.fticonsulting.com/imperialtobacco

Phone Number: 1-844-707-7558

Email Address: imperialtobacco@fticonsulting.com

RBH Ernst & Young Inc.

Website: www.ey.com/ca/rbh

Phone Number: 1-866-943-2280

Email Address: rbh@ca.ey.com

JTIM

Deloitte Restructuring Inc.

Website: www.insolvencies.deloitte.ca/en-ca/JTIM

Phone Number: 1-833-765-1452

Email Address: jtim@deloitte.ca

By JoAnn Derson

• 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, 628 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.

• “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

* “I have to wear my hair tied back for work. With all the ponytails, I get lots of little broken hairs that stick up all over my head when it’s very dry or very humid, especially when I go from a wet, yucky outside to a dry, heated inside. I have tried lots of styling products that don’t work very well. Then a co-worker suggested a fabric softener sheet. I can’t believe it, but it works.” -- P.G. in Michigan

* On Nov. 18, 1966, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Sandy Koufax retired from baseball at age 30 due to chronic arthritis in his pitching arm and the fear that if he kept on playing he eventually would lose the use of his left hand. “In those days there was no surgery,” he said later. “The wisdom was if you went in there, it would only make things worse and your career would be over anyway.”

• 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_20241104 FOR RELEASE NOV. 4, 2024

* On Nov. 19, 2003, an arrest warrant was issued for singer Michael Jackson on child molestation charges. Though he was acquitted two years later of each criminal count on which he was tried, the “King of Pop’s” reputation still suffered many additional blows.

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

1. Name the R&B group who had a hit with “Just to Be Close to You.”

2. Which artist released “I’m Sorry”?

3. Name the duo that released “Yesterday Once More.”

4. Which group released “Surf’s Up,” “Surf Jam” and “Surfin’ Safari”?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “Stronger than any mountain cathedral, Truer than any tree ever grew, Deeper than any forest primeval, I am in love with you.”

Answers

* On Nov. 20, 1820, the American whaling ship Essex, out of Nantucket, Massachusetts, was attacked by an 80-ton sperm whale 2,000 miles off the coast of South America. The 20 crew members escaped in three open boats, but only eight survived. Herman Melville’s classic novel “Moby-Dick” was partially inspired by the tragedy.

• 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. 21, 2019, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

1. The Commodores, in 1976. Songwriter Lionel Richie was lead singer until he left the group in 1982. Over the years, Richie has won four Grammys.

2. Brenda Lee, in 1960, at age 15. A singer from the age of 3 when she was known as “Little Miss Dynamite,” Lee was often the sole financial support for her family while still a child.

3. The Carpenters, in 1973. It was co-written by Richard Carpenter.

4. The Beach Boys, a band formed in 1961. They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

* On Nov. 22, 1909, Clara Lemlich addressed a meeting at the Great Hall of New York City’s Cooper Union to consider a general strike in protest against poor working conditions across the garment industry. The ensuing months-long “Uprising of 20,000” eventually earned employees such concessions as a 52-hour workweek, four paid holidays a year and no fees for work-related materials.

• 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. “Longer,” by Dan Fogelberg, in 1979. The song was Fogelberg’s highest charting song, reaching No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary and Cash Box charts, but only reaching No. 2 on the Hot 100.

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My next-door neighbor puts out food for all of the outdoor cats in the area. That includes a lot of strays who are now mingling with the cats who have homes. She even buys specialty cat food if she thinks they don’t like what she’s offering. I think this is a dangerous situation, because the cats may be exposed to diseases from the strays. What should I say to her to stop this? -- Concerned Next Door

DEAR NEXT DOOR: If you’re on polite terms with the neighbor, go over and talk to her about the issue, calmly. Explain your concerns and let her know that some of those cats have homes and owners who may not be happy about their cats being fed somewhere else.

However, if you’re not comfortable speaking directly with her -- or if the conversation accomplishes nothing -- you will need to consider other routes.

If you have a neighborhood HOA, bring up the issue in a community meeting. The cats’ owners may not be aware of what’s going on. If you don’t have an HOA, try discussing the issue with the other owners directly. Explain that their cats are at risk of contracting diseases common among strays, like FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) or could be injured in a territorial fight. The least painful solution is for cat owners to keep their outdoor cats inside and away from the neighbor.

Then contact your local animal control. Now, animal control doesn’t always intervene in these situations, but if they feel that the strays are a danger to other pets, they may come out and try to trap and remove them to a shelter, or at least have a talk with your neighbor about putting food out.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19)

A rejection of your attempt to be friendly leaves you with two choices: Try again or give up. If you want to make another effort, go slowly. Let things develop without pressure.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It could be a problem dealing with unfamiliar people who do things differently from what you’re used to. But rely on your strong sense of purpose to get you through this difficult period.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) To avoid neglecting a personal matter because of a demanding new workplace schedule, start prioritizing immediately. Knowing how to apportion your time takes a little while to set up.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) It won’t be easy to avoid some of the pressures that come with change. Best advice: Take things a step at a time, and you’ll be less likely to trip up when things are in a chaotic state.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A muchtalked-about workplace change could be coming up soon. Be sure to get all the details involved in the process, and once you have them, you can decide how you want to deal with it.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22)

You might still believe that your trust was betrayed, although the facts would appear to prove the opposite. But by the week’s end, you should learn something that will help set the record straight.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)

Holiday plans could be a challenge because of shifting circumstances. But a more settled period starts by midweek, allowing you to firm up your plan-making once and for all.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) The facts continue to be on your side. So, make use of them when dealing with any challenge to your stated position. Also, open your mind to an offer of help from an unlikely source.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) There still could be a communication problem holding up the resolution of a troublesome situation. Stay with it, and eventually, your message will get through and be understood.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A possible change in your workplace schedule might create a chaotic situation for a while. But once things begin to settle down, you might find that this could work to your advantage.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A recent job-linked decision might need to be reassessed because of the possibility of finding benefits that you might have overlooked. Check out all related data to help in the search.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

A personal situation you agreed to might not be as acceptable to the other person who is involved in the matter. Avoid pressuring and bullying. Instead, seek common ground by talking things through.

Homes & Living

Intrernet addiction, it’s a thing

Despite its central role in daily life, the internet is a relatively recent communication tool. It became widely accessible around the turn of the millennium, and now, over half of the world’s population uses it. While people are becoming increasingly aware of the risks associated with the internet, such as fraud and identity theft, internet addiction remains a growing concern and isn’t fully understood. Can you recognize an internet addict? Here’s a brief description of this worrying phenomenon.

Symptoms

As technology advances at an unprecedented rate and more and more people rely on the internet for work, entertainment and social interaction, some experts still disagree about what constitutes an internet addiction. However, it can be recognized by observing the negative consequences of excessive internet use on an individual’s

dream door starts here

life. For example, an internet addict could:

Be frequently preoccupied with their online presence;

Become irritable or depressed when they reduce the amount of time they spend online.

Need to spend more and more time online to achieve the same level of satisfaction.

Being unable to reduce their time online despite their best efforts. These symptoms can lead to certain problematic behaviours. If someone’s relationships suffer or they start lying to their loved ones to hide the amount of time they spend online, it’s undoubtedly a sign of an internet addiction. Using the internet to escape feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression can worsen the psychological effects of this phenomenon. Internet addiction is also often accompanied by physical symptoms such as dry eyes, headaches,

backaches, poor person al hygiene and sleep problems.

Solutions

Using internet connected devices has become a fundamental part of modern life. Internet addiction is a complicated issue that can have various contributing factors. However, certain habits can help reduce the harmful effects of using these devices. As an individual or parent, you could, among other things: Observe yourself or open a discussion with your child about their feelings. and thoughts about using technology Use alarms to record and monitor connection time.

Set realistic and progressive goals for reducing the amount of time they spend online.

Set aside time for activities with other people It’s important to stress that the amount of time someone spends online isn’t enough to diagnose an internet addiction. People can lead a balanced

life even if they spend considerable time online. However, it becomes problematic when internet use interferes with other aspects of their life. If you think you’re suffering from internet addiction, or if you’re worried about someone close to you, don’t hesitate to contact the resources in your area.

What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that allows users to create a secure and private connection over a less secure network, such as the internet. By using a VPN, individuals and organizations can protect their online activities from prying eyes, ensuring that data transmitted over the internet remains confidential and secure.

When you connect to a VPN, your device communicates with a VPN server, which acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. This server encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it. This encryption is crucial for protecting sensitive information, such as passwords, financial transactions, and personal communications, from hackers and other malicious entities.

One of the primary benefits of using a VPN is the ability to maintain privacy and anonymity online. By masking your IP address, a VPN makes it difficult for websites, advertisers, and even your internet service provider (ISP) to track your online activities. This is particularly useful for individuals who

are concerned about their privacy and identity or who want to access content that may be restricted in their region. A VPN is an essential tool for anyone looking to enhance their online security, protect their privacy, and access restricted content. Whether you’re a casual internet user or a business professional, using a VPN can provide peace of mind and a safer online experience.

Pre-winter auto maintenance

As fall sets in and the weather changes, it’s time to get your vehicle ready for winter. While a fall tune-up may seem optional, overlooking it could lead to significant issues, especially considering the wear and tear from summer driving and the impending winter driving conditions. Here are four reasons why a fall tune-up is essential: Save money on repairs.

With the wear and tear accumulated from summer road trips and driving under hot conditions, a fall tune-up is an opportunity to address any underlying issues before they get worse. From checking fluid levels to inspecting belts and hoses, preventative maintenance can save you from costly repairs down the road. Stay safe on the road

When the weather turns nasty, transitioning to winter tires is crucial for improved traction and handling on cold, icy and snowy roads. Fall is the perfect time to switch to winter tires to ensure optimal grip and safety during the upcoming winter months. Maximize your car’s performance As temperatures drop, your car’s engine and other systems may need

adjustments. A fall tune-up includes fine-tuning components such as the ignition system, fuel system and brakes to ensure optimal performance in cold weather conditions.

Extend the lifespan of your vehicle

Regular maintenance, including a fall tune-up, complies with warranty rules and extends the lifespan of your vehicle. By addressing potential issues early and preparing your car for winter, you’re extending the life of your vehicle.

Schedule your fall tune-up at your local auto repair shop today to stay safe and secure on the roads this winter.

The value in properly staging your home for real estate sales

Staging a home effectively can significantly impact its appeal to potential buyers and help it sell faster and at a better price. Here are some of the best ways to stage a home for real estate:

Declutter and Depersonalize

Start by removing any personal items such as family photos, personal collections, and excess furniture. This helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. Decluttering also makes the home appear more spacious and organized.

Deep Clean

A clean home is essential. Ensure every corner of the house is spotless, including windows, carpets, and appliances. Consider hiring professional cleaners if necessary. A fresh, clean home gives a positive first impression and suggests that the property has been well-maintained. Neutralize the Decor

Opt for neutral colors on the walls and in the decor. Neutral tones appeal to a broader audience and allow buyers to imagine how they can personalize the space. If the walls are painted in bold or unusual colors, consider repainting them in shades of white, beige, or gray.

Enhance Curb Appeal

The exterior of the home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it looks inviting. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, plant flowers, and ensure the entrance is clean and welcoming. A fresh coat of paint on the front door and clean windows can make a big difference.

Create a Welcoming Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home. Make it inviting with a clean doormat, a small table with a vase of fresh flowers, and good lighting. Ensure the entryway is free of clutter and provides a positive first impression.

Highlight Key Features

Identify and highlight the best features of your home. If you have a beautiful fireplace, make it a focal point by arranging furniture around it. Showcase large windows by keeping them clean and unobstructed. Use lighting to draw attention to architectural details.

Furniture Arrangement

Arrange furniture to create a natural flow and make rooms appear larger. Avoid pushing all furniture against the walls; instead, create cozy conversation areas. Ensure there is

enough space for buyers to move around comfortably.

Add Fresh Elements

Incorporate fresh elements like plants, flowers, and fruit bowls to add life and color to the space. Fresh flowers in the kitchen or living room can make the home feel more inviting and vibrant.

Update Lighting

Good lighting can make a home feel warm and welcoming. Ensure all rooms are well-lit by using a combination of natural light, overhead fixtures, and lamps. Replace any outdated light fixtures and use higher wattage bulbs to brighten up dark spaces.

Stage Key Rooms

Focus on staging the most important rooms: the living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and bathrooms. These are the rooms that buyers pay the most attention to. Ensure these spaces are clean, well-decorated, and functional.

Repair and Refresh Fix any minor repairs such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint. These small details can make a big difference in how buyers perceive the home. Consider updating outdated fixtures or hardware to give the home a more modern feel.

By following these staging tips, you can create a welcoming and appealing environment that helps potential buyers see the full potential of your home. Happy staging!

GO FOR GOLD.

Winter Fuel Additives: Enhancing Performance and Protection

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, the performance of your vehicle can be significantly impacted by the cold. One effective way to ensure your engine runs smoothly during the colder months is by using winter fuel additives. These additives are specially formulated to address the challenges posed by low temperatures, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable and efficient.

Understanding winter fuel additives

Winter fuel additives are chemical compounds added to fuel to improve its performance in cold weather. They serve multiple purposes, including preventing fuel gelling, enhancing combustion efficiency, and protecting the engine from wear and tear. The primary types of winter fuel additives include anti-gel additives, cetane improvers, and fuel stabilizers. Anti-gel additives

One of the most common issues faced by diesel engines in winter is fuel gelling. Diesel fuel contains paraffin wax, which can solidify at low temperatures, leading to clogged fuel lines and filters. Anti-gel additives work by lowering the pour point of the fuel, preventing the wax from solidifying.

This ensures that the fuel remains fluid and can flow freely through the engine, even in extremely cold conditions.

Cetane improvers

Cetane improvers are another essential type of winter fuel additive. Cetane is a measure of the combustion quality of diesel fuel. Higher cetane numbers indicate better combustion efficiency, leading to smoother engine operation and reduced emissions. In cold weather, diesel engines can struggle to ignite the fuel properly, resulting in hard starts and increased emissions.

Cetane improvers enhance the ignition quality of the fuel, making it easier for the engine to start and run efficiently in cold temperatures.

Fuel Stabilizers

Fuel stabilizers are additives that help maintain the quality of the fuel over time. During winter, vehicles are often left unused for extended periods, leading to fuel degradation. Fuel stabilizers prevent the oxidation and breakdown of fuel, ensuring it remains fresh and effective. This is particularly important for gasoline engines, as degraded fuel can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions.

Benefits of Using Winter Fuel Additives

Using winter fuel additives offers several benefits, including improved engine performance, increased fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance costs. By preventing fuel gelling, antigel additives ensure that your engine starts easily and runs smoothly, even in the coldest weather. Cetane improvers enhance combustion efficiency, leading to better fuel economy and lower emissions. Fuel stabilizers protect the fuel from degradation, ensuring that your engine performs optimally even after long periods of inactivity. Winter fuel additives are a valuable tool for maintaining the performance and reliability of your vehicle during the colder months. By addressing the specific challenges posed by low temperatures, these additives help ensure that your engine runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably. Whether you drive a diesel or gasoline vehicle, incorporating winter fuel additives into your maintenance routine can provide peace of mind and protect your investment throughout the winter season.