SUMMER 2018
Your guide to fun and entertainment in Prince George
event listings
Don’t miss a thing!
PAGE 20
Magician Matt Johnson Comes to dazzle at Downtown Summerfest PAGE 12
3 Days • 11 BANDS
music festival The biggest music festival to hit Prince George city limits comes this August! See page 8 for more.
Find out more about the nationwide search that produced the new BMO KidzArt Dayz logo and the fun and festivities planned for this July event on page 19.
Canada Day In the Park Cultural celebrations and more planned for Canada Day festivities. Find out more on page 10.
in this
issue Citizen Scene SUMMEr 2018
4 6 8 10 14 16 17 18 19 20
Prince George’s ever-growing
arts scene
My first season with the
PGSO
Music festival to
rock the north Celebrations set for
Canada Day at the park
The best of P.G. on display at
Don’t be a patio potato. Summer time and the livin’ is easy, as the old song goes, but that shouldn’t mean parking it in the shade and waiting for the fun and good times to come to you. For those willing to step into the sunlight and out of their backyard, there is so much to do in Prince George this summer and The Citizen’s Scene magazine has returned to point you in the right direction. The biggest event of the summer in Prince George is always Canada Day in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, an all-day multicultural celebration of all things awesomely Canadian, culminating in a fireworks display, sponsored by Canfor, at 11 p.m. Judy Russell brings a new production to the Playhouse stage, as she does every July. This summer, it’s Legally Blonde: The Musical. Local favourite Shelby Meaney will be in the lead role of Elle Woods. Foodie Fridays moves this year from Veterans Plaza in front of city hall to Canada Games Plaza in front of the Civic Centre. You don’t have to brownbag lunch every Friday all summer while trying out the best food truck chow in town. August is going to be awesome at Exhibition Park, first with the threeday Cariboo Rocks show, with your favourite 1970s and 1980s bands taking the stage, led by the legendary Little River Band. After that, the B.C. Northern Exhibiton moves in with the classic midway, 4-H barns and all the great staff that makes the summer fair so fun. And that’s just an introduction. Keep reading and learn how to avoid being a patio potato this summer.
the BCNE
A division of
Judy Russell presents
Legally Blonde: The Musical
201-1777 Third Avenue | Prince George, B.C. | 250.562.2441
PGTC provides
tennis for everyone
Culinary delights on
Foodie Fridays
BMO KidzArt Dayz logo a
playful illustration
Your source for
Local events
check it out...
Local event listings Looking for something to do in Prince George or want to promote your local event? Turn to page 20 and check out our events listings!
Publisher and GM Colleen Sparrow
Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout
Director of Advertising Cheryl Stewart
Layout & Design: Grace Flack Photography: Brent Braaten, James Doyle Stories: Frank Peebles, Christine Hinzmann Cover Image: Magician Matt Johnson, set to perform during Downtown Summefest July 15th. Promotional photo courtesy of Matt Johnson
The Citizen Scene is available online at www.pgcitizen.ca The Citizen Scene is produced by the Prince George Citizen, a division of Glacier Media Group, Copyright ©2018.
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citizen scene
arts
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arts scene Prince George’s ever-growing
With our ever-growing cultural sector, the City of Prince George is very fortunate to have performing arts events throughout the summer for people of all ages. BY SEAN FARRELL Executive Director, Prince George and District Community Arts Council
After such a long, cold winter, there are many reasons to happily anticipate the warmer season and among them are all the great opportunities for people of all ages to participate in local arts events and classes. And with our ever-growing cultural sector, the City of Prince George is very fortunate to have performing arts events throughout the summer for people of all ages. Theatre-wise, this summer has a full script both for adults and kids. For a unique creative learning activity in July, and back by popular demand, are the Theatre NorthWest sewing camps for children, youth, and adults. Participants learn how to use sewing machines, patterns, and will go home having finished unique projects. For more
information visit www.theatrenorthwest.com. Judy Russell and Enchainment Productions are going to be keeping dance and musical theatre lovers busy this summer. For children and youth there will be camps for dance and musical theatre in July, and an end-of-summer dance intensive in August. Most exciting will be the production of the award-winning Legally Blonde (the musical) which will be playing at the Prince George Playhouse from July 17 to 28. For more information on booking your child into some fun summertime dance training, or for information on tickets for Legally Blonde, visit www. judyrusselldance.com. There are some fantastic art camps in town all summer for kids. Both Studio 2880 and
Two Rivers Gallery offer multi-week day camps, with each camp being a week-long and having a different arts theme. Both camps have specific age groups and unique features, as well as limited positions, so check them out for your children in July and August. For more information visit www.studio2880.com and www.tworiversgallery.ca. This summer try something different for yourself or your children – get involved in an arts activity and get out to a play or a show. There’s lots to do and the best way to keep track is to subscribe to the monthly Arts Notes newsletter from www.studio2880.com or check out the Tourism PG events calendar at www.tourismpg.com.
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citizen scene
music
My first season with the
PGSO What a wonderful year it has been!
BY Michael Hall Music Director, Prince George Symphony Orchestra
Having just completed my first season as Music Director of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra, I thought this would be a great opportunity to reflect on my first year.
Michael Hall, PGSO music director. Photo by Brent Braaten
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It seems like just yesterday when I came to audition for the position. I was immediately struck by the friendliness and generosity of spirit of the entire organization, from the board and staff, down to the musicians. I felt that this would be a great place to make music and settle into a warm and friendly community. After my first year, my experiences have been very positive. I have gotten to know members of the community and have begun a musical relationship with the orchestra. I have found that there is great amount of support from the community at large, from media outlets (including, of course, the Prince George Citizen), businesses, local government, donors and
concert goers. It is a point of pride to have so many arts organizations in Prince George, including a great symphony orchestra, which is an attraction for people who potentially want to move here. The PGSO has a long history; we are almost 50 years old and this says a lot about the organization and the people of Prince George. At the same time, there is always more work to be done; to increase our relevance to the community, to increase the artistic level of the orchestra, to continue to present exciting musical projects and collaborations that will capture the imagination of our audience, to develop musical talent that is right here in our own backyard and to present the music of talented Canadian composers. I want to invite all of you to join us at our concerts. We offer a wide variety of offerings, from our Mainstage concerts, to our free Pops in the Park and our Chamber Music series. New this year is our Kinder Concerts tailor made for young people.
Some people tell me that classical music is not for them. That they don’t understand that kind of music. I tell them first and foremost that attending a classical concert is not a cerebral art but an emotional one. All music has the same common denominators: communicating in the language of emotion, transporting us to a different place, making us forget about the world, but also, especially with the great masterworks, to learn about ourselves and our place in the world. Like all great art, if you choose to invest time in it, it will reward you tenfold, but this is not a prerequisite for getting enjoyment out of a concert. Just come with open ears, and you will not be dissapointed. There is something thrilling about seeing a group of musicians on stage giving of themselves and their talent. If you have never been to a concert, please come and give it a try. The PGSO is a family. It’s a family of all those who are playing onstage as well as those who are listening to the music. What we all have in common is our enormous care and concern for the music and the commitment to keeping this living tradition going. I look forward to many more years at the helm of the PGSO. See you at our next concert.
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citizen scene
music
Erica Hummel, Tourism PG CEO, Glen Mikkelsen, CN Centre manager doing his best rock pose and Kyle Sampson from Cariboo Brewing with the announcement of Cariboo Rocks the North. Photo by Brent Braaten
MusictoFestival rock the north BY FRANK PEEBLES
It is being heralded as the biggest concert event ever held inside Prince George city limits. Cariboo Rocks will fill the Exhibition Park plaza outside CN Centre with the soundtrack of our lives. This August event started as a popular annual barbecue at Pacific Western Brewery (PWB). Shows with Trooper, April Wine, Honeymoon Suite and other classic rock acts would sell out almost as fast as the tickets would go on sale. PWB hated to turn people away, and it was as clear as their spring water that this town wanted some grinding guitars and crunchy drums when popping their PWB tops. “We think it’s not just exciting for PWB, we believe it’s exciting for the city of Prince George,” said Kyle Sampson from the local brewing company’s sales and marketing team. “To be announcing an event of this magnitude - we think it adds to the city not just in culture and entertainment, but economically as well.” Erica Hummel, CEO of Tourism Prince
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George, said the addition of a large-scale music festival in Prince George has been on her wish list for years. “One of the pieces I knew we needed was a major multi-day summer music festival. This event will put us on the map as a must-see summer destination,” Hummel said. The lineup is worth the drives and train rides northern residents will embark on. There’s little other way to see some of these blasts from the past. For some, this is the very first time they’ve ever been to Prince George, even when they were hot back in the day. For others, it’s a return to an established fan base. For the prime headliner, there is no way they ever would have veered this far north of the major markets when they were blowing up the radio back in their heyday. That act is The Little River Band, one of the staples of AM gold with hits like Help Is On Its Way, Cool Change, Reminiscing, Lonesome Loser, Lady and many more. Another main name on the list is Kim Mitchell, beloved guitar slinger who cranked
out Go For A Soda, Rock ‘n’ Roll Duty, I Am A Wild Party, Patio Lanterns and a lot of others. When he plays Lager & Ale this time, it will have extra meaning with all those PWB choices on the menu. Another prime name on the festival sched is the monarch of Canadian rock, the first superstar our country ever had in that genre, Randy Bachman of The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive fame. Joining these legends are strong names with some impressive hits of their own: Prism, Headpins, Honeymoon Suite, Nick Gilder & Sweeney Todd, Toronto, Harlequin, Platinum Blonde and bridging to more recent times is popular hit factory 54-40. The Cariboo Rocks the North festival will be held Aug. 10-12. Full-festival three-day passes will run for $149.50 while single-day tickets will cost $59.50 in advance. Sales are on now and moving briskly at the ticketsnorth.ca website or by calling 1-888293-6613.
citizen scene
by Christine HINZMANN
events
Many different cultural celebrations planned for Prince George’s Canada Day events in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park.
CANADA DAY at the
park
An hour before the regularly scheduled events begin at noon on Canada Day at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park on July 1, there will be a nationwide simultaneous drumming event crossing five time zones. Then there’s opening ceremonies and a cake cutting where everyone in attendance can enjoy a piece of sugary confection. There will be a full schedule of multicultural entertainment at the bandshell, many food vendors, information booths and activities for the children, including face painting.
A dragon dance was performed on the steps of city hall on April 3- to help promote this year’s Canada Day Drumming Celebration. Photo by Brent Braaten.
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The Canada Day Drumming organization will be celebrating diversity, harmony and peace for a better world in collaboration with the Prince George Chinese Benevolent Society. The drumming organization will also be making an attempt at a Guinness World Record for the most nationalities drumming at the same place at the same time at Creekside Park in Vancouver. Last year’s attempt saw 30 nationalities participate, the goal is 50 this year. While that’s happening, the local drummers will simultaneously drum with others across the nation. Everyone is welcome to attend at the park on Canada Day to enjoy the event that will culminate in a fireworks display sponsored by Canfor at 11 p.m. at Connaught Hill, which can be easily viewed from Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park.
The fireworks show that capped off last years Canada Day celebrations. This year the fireworks show will come back, thanks to sponsorship from Canfor. Photo by James Doyle
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citizen scene
events
summerfest DOWNTOWN
Submitted story
This year the feature entertainer, Matt Johnson, brings his fabulous magic show that has been described as both mysterious and hilarious.
Photo top: Kids feed the goats in the petting farm during last year’s Downtown Summerfest. Photo bottom: Crowds enjoying the Canadian Western Bank Taste Pavilion. Photos by Chuck Chin
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There is a time for being unique and original and there is a time to follow the crowd… like when the crowd is heading to Downtown Summerfest on Sunday July 15th. You don’t need a better excuse to hang out with your friends and family in Prince George’s downtown. In a new location at Canada Games Plaza and 7th Avenue, you will find the same great food, live entertainment, exciting activities, fascinating vendors and literally… something for everyone! And in 2018 there is more than ever before! If you have ever been to Downtown Summerfest you know that everywhere you look there will be people smiling, enjoying incredible food and just being social. Starting at 11am and going to 5pm, it’s a time to weave through the crowd of happy faces enjoying the festive spirit of the day. The Canadian Western Bank Taste Pavilion introduces festival goers to local restaurants with masterful chefs who spend months deciding which two items will tantalize your taste buds the most. The aroma of delicious food fills the air with so many tasty sample size food items that there is no doubt you must be sure to bring along your appetite. The music on the TD Mainstage has people tapping their feet and clapping their hands to the beat. The downtown streets are alive with laughter and ‘extraordinary’ is what you get. Every year, Downtown Summerfest gives you a chance to take a vacation away from reality and be a part of an amazing line up of entertainment all day long. This year the feature entertainer, Matt Johnson, brings his fabulous magic show that has been described as both mysterious and hilarious. Known as “The Magician”, Matt’s charisma and humour amazes audiences with his subtle sleight of hand tricks and stuns the street crowds with his flawless execution of one-on-one magic.
Matt has been performing and perfecting his craft for over 20 years taking his show around the world with appearances on Penn & Teller Fool Us and recently, Britain’s Got Talent. His performances are bold, powerful and delivered with an edgy urban flair that is uniquely his own. Fun just has a way of happening in the Community Kidz Zone. It’s always entertaining to see the delight on the faces of the passengers, big and small, riding the Cottonwood Express mini rail. Even the animals from Black Spruce Petting Farm love the attention and the treats from all the kids. The Home Hardware Butterfly House brings you up close and personal with hundreds of the most beautiful monarch butterflies you would ever want to meet. For the super hero lovers, you may just get a chance to meet one of your favourite characters on the streets of downtown. The whole family will thank you for making Downtown Summerfest part of your weekend plans. Downtown Prince George has been inviting everyone to ‘take to the streets’ for this signature summer festival since 2011 and it just keeps getting better. “This year we want to make a weekend of fun in our downtown”, says Colleen Van Mook, Executive Director for Downtown Prince George. Many downtown businesses want in on the action and you are bound to see more events and activities on Saturday July 14th. Like the CrossRoads Brewing Street Festival that will bring a family friendly outdoor theme to George Street during the day and an adult oriented party atmosphere in the evening. If you live in Prince George, don’t leave town and be sure to come downtown. If you are planning to visit Prince George, then Downtown Summerfest Weekend is your summer festival destination. Follow us @ DowntownPG for all the exciting details.
citizen scene
events
BY FRANK PEEBLES
THe BEST OF P.G. on display at the BCNE Photos left and right page: Many of last year’s favourites are returning to the BCNE this August, including the popular Limelight Quest talent competition ( Isabelle Houghton, 10, won it last year), the traditional 4-H barns, the always well-attended Seniors Day and the home and horticulture display, where Vanessa Taddison won first place last year for her homemade jam. Photos by Brent Braaten.
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The fall fair is only one season away and the date is coming fast. The BC Northern Exhibition has been a major event on the local calendar since 1912. It has survived floods, economic depressions, wars, even last year’s Cariboo wildfires and stands as a shining example of our community’s best - everything from the best baking to the best beasts. “We almost couldn’t go ahead last year because of the fires, but we managed to make it work and I think the community really need that, the BCNE was something good when times had been hard for so many people,” said BCNE general manager Aimee Alspaugh.
It is the Blue Ribbon Day (four of them, in fact) for the area’s rich and extensive agriculture and horticulture industries, for our home arts and our history. It showcases Prince George culture from serious economics to hilarious entertainment. Some of the big-ticket events included in this year’s BCNE are the President’s Choice Superdogs demonstrations, a team roping competition, barrel racing, heavy horse pull, and a motocross competition. The usual features are also coming back like the everpopular midway, historical presentations, home arts displays and competitions, the culmination of the 4-H year, plenty of commercial vendors and not-for-profit awareness displays, thick infusions of agriculture and horticulture, the delicious food court and refreshing beer garden, plus special events like Seniors’ Day and the Firefighter Games. New this year is a raffle fundraiser that will span the fair and send lucky winners home at the end with $15,000 worth of prizes. On the entertainment stages, look for popular magician
Clinton Gray back again after previous appearances over the years. Local bands like Far From Linear, Coldwater Creek, Bralorne and Steel Wheels have already booked in for mainstage performances, and the BCNE is where the finals get held for the summertime Limelight Quest vocal competition. Aaron Halliday (Alan Jackson tribute artist) is the headliner for the annual Stetson Stomp dinner and dance. Alspaugh encouraged everyone with crafty minds, green thumbs and artistic sides to look through this year’s Home Arts & Horticulture Prize Book (available on the BCNE website under the Fall Fair heading). “There are so many things you can enter. The deadline is Aug. 7 so start planning now what you want to enter.” There are also opportunities for local businesses and agencies to have a presence at the fair. The specifics are outlined on the BCNE website. This year’s BC Northern Exhibition happens Aug. 16-19 throughout Exhibition Park all around CN Centre.
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citizen scene
theatre
The play tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner.
Judy Russell presents
legally blonde: The Musical
BY FRANK PEEBLES
Reese Witherspoon went from star to superstar thanks to this charming hit musical and local audiences get to fall under its peroxide spell this summer.
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Legally Blonde: The Musical will bring ditzy (or is she?) Elle Woods to court local audiences. It’s that age-old story of the shallow, sheltered, fish out of water who stumbles off the Malibu strip into the halls of Harvard Law School. I mean, like, omigod, you guys, isn’t that, like, what happens to, like, everybody? Director/choreographer Judy Russell is producing this all-local summer bombshell. The cast includes Franco Celli as Warner, Padraig Hogan as Emmett, Murray Gable as Professor Callahan and in the power-pink position of Elle Woods is one of the city’s best loved lead performers Shelby Meaney. She’s been Maria in The Sound of Music, the Lady of the Lake in Spamalot, plus parts in everything from Tommy to Hello Dolly. Most recently, she stormed the Kit Kat Klub as Sally Bowles in Cabaret. Now she gets to really lay the lipstick on thick as the bubbleheaded (or is she?) Elle Woods in the Tony Award-nominated Broadway version of the book/ SPRING 2018
film Legally Blonde. “So, not gonna lie, I’m pretty nervous about this role,” Meaney told The Citizen’s PG Scene. “I think it will be my biggest challenge yet as an actor, singer and dancer. It is by far the most difficult singing role I’ve ever had to take on, and acting wise I think it will be hard to make Elle a real and honest character. She is a valley girl and ‘a blonde’ for sure, but also smart and incredibly kind. Not to mention all the lawyer jargon I am going to have to familiarize myself with. But! The cast is stellar (and mostly under 25!!) and under the leadership of Judy (Russell, producer/director), Niki (Russell, choreographer), and Robin (Norman, vocal coach), I know I’ll get there. Also, the show is hilarious.” “The play tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner,” Judy Russell said. “She discovers how her knowledge of the law can help others, and manages to surprise everyone when she defies expectations while staying true to herself.” Legally Blonde: The Musical will run at the P.G. Playhouse July 17-28. Tickets are now available online at centralinteriortickets.com.
Tennis for everyone
citizen scene
sports
The Prince George Tennis Club ups their game BY FRANK PEEBLES
It’s not a question of “tennis anyone?” in Prince George, it is a matter of tennis everyone. The Prince George Tennis Club has undergone a lot of changes in the past few years to develop their organization and up their game. The club is located conveniently on the campus of the Prince George Golf & Curling Club, on the west side of the main PGGCC building. They have ample court space, plus they were early adopters of the pickleball sport, a close cousin of tennis, which has a whole audience of its own with five of their own courts. The Prince George Tennis Club (PGTC) hosted the city’s high school championships in early June, proving just how healthy the city’s tennis movement is. The Aces After School Program aims to serve up even more youth affinity for the game. Last year, in another sign of improving health, the PGTC held a female tennis title for the
first time in more than a decade. It was won by Cheyanna Kempel. The annual men’s title (the winner receiving the Matt Altizer Memorial Cup) has been hotly alternated between two standout players the past four years, Kristian Kiland and James Nearing. Some of Prince George’s players, who call the PGTC home court, have also done well in other communities’ tournaments, indicating the growing strength of the club’s skill development programs. Those and the recreational side of the game are in the hands of longtime local player and this year’s resident pro Cory Fleck. Some of those regular plug-ins to tennis offered each year through the club include the Summer Smash Kids Camps, Rally Fun Birthday Parties, and playing opportunities specific to Junior and Adult levels (Ladies’ Nights, Tennis Ladders, workshops, private and semi-private lessons, etc.).
The PGTC makes it easy to take part in their favourite sport at their premier local facilities. The drop-in rate is only $5 (free for wheelchair players), with six membership levels to tailor the playing season specifically to your lifestyle. A family membership is $290, couples are $250, Singles +18 are $165, Singles +65 are $105, Single -18 & Students are $65, and an out-oftown player can be a $65 member as well. “When you become a member of PG Tennis Club you’ll meet a supportive group of people who love playing tennis and pickleball,” said a club spokesperson. “If that’s not enough, here are a few more great reasons to join: personal racquet stringing, private and public lessons, equipment rentals, free member clinics, tournaments and social events, plus copious use of PGGCC facilities.” On the competitive side, the club will offer tournaments to test the players’ mettle and excite the spectators. Those will be publicized in local media and on the PGTC website.
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citizen scene
food
Colbie Norn, 8, and Cooper Norn, 6, both enjoy a double chocolate ice cream cone over the lunch hour during Foodie Friday last year at City Hall. Photo by Brent Braaten
BY Christine HINZMANN
Culinary delights coming to a new location outside the Civic Centre and Two Rivers Gallery this summer.
FOODIE
fridays
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Sunshine and live music, the smell of meat cooking on the grill, handmade ice cream, bubble waffles, donairs, and 450 people sharing in the fun will set the scene when Foodie Fridays make a comeback in downtown Prince George. Foodie Fridays will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Canada Games Plaza this summer until Aug. 31. The location has changed from Veteran’s Plaza at City Hall due to extensive construction taking place in the area so the Civic Centre and Two Rivers Gallery will be front and centre when the lunchtime event takes place rain or shine. There are at least seven vendors that have confirmed their attendance each week: Spicy Greens, White Goose Bistro, Frozen Paddle, Smokehouse on the Run, North City Donair, Col Juicery and Magel’s Cafe. “It’s a beautiful blend of vendors to really hit the taste buds, desires and dietary needs of all the people who will be attending,” Jen Tkachuck, civic events coordinator for the City of Prince George, said. “It’s going to hit a wide variety of people’s likes, so
that’s exciting.” The plaza fountain will add to the ambiance and live music will offer unique entertainment that will showcase local talent including solo performances and five-piece bands. “The entertainment will vary week to week but it’s always high calibre,” Tkachuk said. Everyone is welcome to attend the event. Even if people want to enjoy the music while eating their bag lunch and perhaps just indulging in an ice cream or a bubble tea. “I know I never pack a lunch on Foodie Fridays,” Tkachuk laughed. “And I’m excited not to pack a Friday lunch of leftovers for the summer.” Despite the move from City Hall, the location is still central for easy access, Tkachuk added. “There’s something really magical about eating lunch outside,” Tkachuk said. “I think that’s one of the things that’s a common theme for people who live in the north is that we really love being outside as we’re camping, hiking and going to the lake and this event gives us a little taste of the outdoors on a lunch break. We all want to enjoy the nice weather while we have it.”
citizen scene
events
New BMO KidzArt Dayz logo a
playful
illustration This year’s logo design the product of a nationwide search
BY FRANK PEEBLES
A new logo is a matter of particular interest when you are an arts organization. When your existence is rooted in the arts, such design work is rooted in your raison d’être and also has to effectively represent you as every logo is intended to do. It took a nationwide call for submissions for the Two Rivers Gallery to pinpoint the right logo update for one of their signature events. Each year, they host BMO KidzArt Dayz and this year it will have a new flag to wave. On screens, posters, billboards, T-shirts and more, the public will see the new image created especially for the event by Vancouver artist Jenny Hsieh, the winner of the cross-Canada effort. “Jenny’s playful illustration depicts a child cruising towards adventure by submarine,” said Twyla Exner, director of public programs at 2RG. “It’s imaginative, and celebrates movement towards creativity.” By way of introduction, Hsiah described herself as a Taiwanese Canadian artist who studied at Emily Carr University and graduated in 2017 with a BFA in Illustration. She called her typical style as “lighthearted and fun” whereby she aimed to “evoke happiness and highlight simple moments in life in a playful way.” She is currently a freelance illustrator, graphic designer and
artist. She is open to commissions and can be contacted via her website at jenh.ca. Hsiah was paid professional fees for her winning artwork, which will appear in promotional materials leading up to the 2018 event. “We’re happy to support an artist in the creation of an original illustration that so perfectly suits our event,” Exner said. BMO KidzArt Dayz is coming up July 6-7. This arts eruption downtown in Canada Games Plaza brings families from all walks of life outside into the creative fresh air. Exner listed some of this year’s features. “Sandra Cardenas and Nikki Boxer will get the crowd on their feet for a Zumba Fitness dance party, plus Chinook Yoga will be leading a family session,” she said. “The crowd will be wowed by performances from Alberta’s Hula Hoop Circus, former Dheli2Dublin musician Andy the Musical Scientist and many more. There will be dozens of interactive activities, including rocket launchers and the everpopular paint spinner. This year, we are offering activities and entertainment that can be enjoyed by toddlers to pre-teens and all kids-at-heart.” The Bollywood Dream Dancers and the region’s own Khast’an Drummers will also perform. The activities are free of charge and operate from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. SPRING 2018
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events
your source for Local
june
June 24th
Art Exhibition
Location: Two Rivers Gallery More info: tworiversgallery.ca Current – July 8th
Canadian Visionary Art Exhibition
Location: Two Rivers Gallery More info: tworiversgallery.ca Current – July 8th
INJUN-uity, or Growing Up Pop Art Exhibition
Location: Two Rivers Gallery More info: tworiversgallery.ca Current – July 27th
CFURadio Youth Academy Learn the behind the scenes and create your own radio show! Location: Office 6-354 in UNBC’s Student Centre More info: cfur.ca/radio-camp/ June 23rd
Legion Week Family day in the park
Complimentary food and drinks, games and free train rides for children. Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park
June 24th
ALS Walk
Raise money for breakthrough ALS research and services to support those living with ALS and their families. Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park Tickets at: princegeorge.ca
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Western Family Stringband
Live music Location: Nancy O’s More info: facebook.com/pg/ Nancyospg/events July 6th - 7th
BMO KidzArt Dayz Family Arts & Entertainment
Location: Canada Games Plaza More info: tworiversgallery.ca
June 30th
Tea Time for the Soul
Come and share your grief story along with tea/coffee and fresh baking. Location: 1506 Ferry Ave.
Current – July 22nd
All Things New: An exhibition of work by members of the Artists’ Co-Op
July 6th
The largest mental health ride in Canada, to help raise awareness and funds for mental health programs and services in our community. Location: CN Centre on Ospika Blvd. More information: ridedonthide.com/bc/ride/ prince-george
july July 1st
Canada Day Celebrations Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park More info: princegeorge.ca
June 25th
Tea Time for the Soul
Come and share your grief story along with tea/coffee and fresh baking. Location: 1506 Ferry Ave. June 25th
Alban Classical Presents The New Horizon’s Adult Band Year-end Concert
Location: 1st Baptist Church, Gillett St. and 5th Ave. More info: albanclassical.org June 26th
Schools Out: Video Game Hour
Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca June 26th
Italian Language Meet-up Group
Whether you want to start learning the Italian language or already have some knowledge, this is an opportunity to get together and practice in a casual atmosphere! Location: PG Italian Club, 1209 5th Ave. June 28th
Coffee for the Care Giver
Drop in group for care givers who are caring for someone with a Palliative diagnosis. Location: 1506 Ferry Ave.
July 7th
July 1st
Dominion Day at Huble Homestead
Take a trip to the past and celebrate July 1st the old-fashioned way at Huble Homestead! Location: Huble Homestead Historic Site More info: hublehomestead.ca July 3rd
Italian Language Meet-up Group
Whether you want to start learning the Italian language or already have some knowledge, this is an opportunity to get together and practice in a casual atmosphere! Location: PG Italian Club, 1209 5th Ave. July 4th
The Great Book Club Trivia Challenge
Compete against other bibliophiles. Test your knowledge of the book club titles. For adults. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Pride Day Festival and Parade
The biggest community pride celebration to date in Prince George. Plans for the 21st celebration include a food pavilion, local vendors, live music, entertainment and activities for all ages. Location: 1100 Patricia Blvd. More info: princegeorge.ca
July 7th
Northern Hardware Canoe Race Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park More info: princegeorge.ca July 7th
Supertrak BMX Racing
Location: Carrie Jane Gray Park More info: princegeorge.ca July 10th
Nail Art
Looking for a new summer look? Join our DIY nail party and learn cool new designs to use the next time you paint your nails. Supplies will be provided. For teens. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca July 12th
Dr. Tech: Cyber Security 101
Learn to spot scams and have a safe online experience. Feel free to bring your own laptop. For adults. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
July 14th
July 20th – October 7TH
July 26th
Water Wise Workshops
Atomic Love
Red Hot Hayseeds
Art Exhibition
Live music
Location: REAPS, 1950 Gorse St. More info: princegeorge.ca July 14th
Crossroads Street Festival: Motorsports, Motocross and Jetboating Location: Crossroads Brewing, 508 George St. More info: crossroadscraft.com
July 15th
Location: Two Rivers Gallery More info: tworiversgallery.ca
July 15th
Blue SPruce Trail Race
9:00am 5km, $10. 9:15am 10km $15. Location: Forest for the World (Kueng Rd.) More info: pgroadrunners.ca
July 17th - 28th
Downtown Prince George’s signature festival celebrating fun, food, entertainment and activities! Featuring the legendary Taste Pavillion, petting farm, mini train and many more activities. Location: Canada Games Plaza More information: downtownpg.com/summerfest
Judy Russell Presents: Legally Blonde – The Musical Location: The Prince George Playhouse More info: tourismpg.com July 20th – October 7th
July 23rd
Doula Night in Artspace Location: Artspace at Books & Company More info: facebook.com/pg/ booksandcompanyprincegeorge July 26th
Master Minds: Women and Nature in the Gothic Novel Explore the interactions between female characters and nature in Jane Austen’s “Northanger Abbey” and Anne Radcliffe’s “The Romance of the Forest” and “The Mysteries of Udolpho”. For adults. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Location: Nancy O’s More info: facebook.com/pg/ Nancyospg/events July 28th
Scavenger Saturday
Round up the troops for an exciting search in the great outdoors! Location: Huble Homestead Historic Site More info: hublehomestead.ca July 31st
Italian Language Meet-up Group Whether you want to start learning the Italian language or already have some knowledge, this is an opportunity to get together and practice in a casual atmosphere! Location: PG Italian Club, 1209 5th Ave.
ContraStructural Art Exhibition
Location: Two Rivers Gallery More info: tworiversgallery.ca
Turn the page for more events!
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august
August 7th
Italian Language Meet-up Group
August 5th - 6th
Homestead Days
Premier pioneer event that’s so chock full of old-fashioned activities that it needs two days! Location: Huble Homestead Historic Site More info: hublehomestead.ca August 6th
BC Day RV Raffle/Free Family Day
Annual Prince George Knights Society RV Raffle Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park More info: princegeorge.ca
August 10th - 12th
August 17th
Library Campout
Kids aged 5-9. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
August 9th
Live music
Location: Nancy O’s More info: facebook.com/pg/ Nancyospg/events August 16th
Supertrak BMX Race for Life
This all star classic rock event at Exhibition Park at the CN Centre. Featuring 11 bands and three days of classic rock. Location: Exhibition Park MOre info: cariboorocksthenorth.com
ongoing events
Winery Tours
Winery Tours
Current – August 29th Location: Northern Lights Estate Winery More info: northernlightswinery.ca
tuesdays Downtown Walking Tour
Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Yoga in the Orchard
Current – August 28th Location: Northern Lights Estate Winery More info: northernlightswinery.ca
Queer-Straight Alliance for Teens Current – August 28th Every Second Tuesday Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
wednesdays Queer Cafe
Once a month Location: Café Voltaire More info: facebook.com/pg/ cafevoltairepg/events
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Current – August 29th Location: Northern Lights Estate Winery More info: northernlightswinery.ca
Summer Reading Program: Motion Commotion
July 11th – August 15th For Kids aged 5-9. Location: Prince George Public Library, Nechako Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Storytime at Nechako
July 11th – August 15th Bring your little ones for half an hour of fun. Stories, songs and rhymes. For kids aged 0-5. Location: Prince George Public Library, Nechako Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Lego Time
July 11th – August 15th For kids aged 0-9. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Double Digits
July 11th – August 15th Make friends with other Double Digits while enjoying different activities each week. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
August 22nd
Masich Mile
6:00pm free kids run, 6:15pm 1 mile race. $10. Location: Masich Place Stadium More info: pgroadrunners.ca August 24th
Survivor Nerf Tag
Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
More info: princegeorge.ca
monday
BCNE Fall Fair
Location: Exhibition Park More info: bcne.ca
Whether you want to start learning the Italian language or already have some knowledge, this is an opportunity to get together and practice in a casual atmosphere! Location: PG Italian Club, 1209 5th Ave.
Ali McCormick with Britt A.M.
August 16th - 19th
Tens and Teens gaming hour
July 11th – August 15th Come out and get your game on with Wii U and Nintendo Switch games. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
thursdays Breastfeeding Cafe in Artspace
Once a Month Location: Artspace at Books & Company More info: facebook.com/pg/ booksandcompanyprincegeorge
Café Chess
Location: Café Voltaire More info: facebook.com/pg/ cafevoltairepg/events
Downtown Walking Tour
Starts July 3rd Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Teen Anime Hour
July 12th – August 16th Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Writers Lab
July 12th – August 16th Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Teen Tabletop Meetup
July 12th – August 16th Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Read to Me in French
July 12th – August 16th Stories and songs in french. For kids aged 5-9. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
friday Foodie Fridays
June 22nd – August 31st Local vendors and food trucks gather to provide amazing food from local restaurants. Location: Canada Games Plaza More info: tourismpg.com
Comedy Shows
Location: Sonar Comedy & Nightclub More info: sonarcomedynightclub.com
Live Music in the Bistro
Location: Northern Lights Estate Winery More info: northernlightswinery.ca
Jazz Night
Live music Location: Winston Resto-Bar More info: facebook.com/ winstonrestobar770
Minecraft
July 13th – August 10th For kids aged 5-9. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
saturday
Storytime at Books & Company
Location: Books and Company More info: facebook.com/pg/ booksandcompanyprincegeorge
Public Skating
Current – September 30th Location: Roll-A-Dome, 2588 Recplace Dr. More info: facebook.com/ pgdome
Yoga Adventures
Prince George Farmers Market Location: 1310 3rd Ave. More info: farmersmarketpg.ca
July 14th – August 11th Children ages 5-9 and their caregivers. Location: Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch More info: pgpl.ca
Farmers and Community Market
sunday
Location: Outside at Pine Centre Mall More info: wscommunityfarmersmarket.ca
Comedy Shows
Location: Sonar Comedy & Nightclub More info: sonarcomedynightclub.com
Winery Tours
Current – August 29th Location: Northern Lights Estate Winery More info: northernlightswinery.ca
Farmers and Community Market
Location: John A. Brinks Trades and Technology building at CNC. More info: wscommunityfarmersmarket.ca
Public Skating
Current – September 30th Location: Roll-A-Dome, 2588 Recplace Dr. More info: facebook.com/ pgdome
Scrabble Sundays
Feature your
event Citizen Scene events pages are a FREE way to get your event published and in the hands of residents and visitors looking for something local to do. Email your event to:
events@pgcitizen.ca
A relaxed gathering of logophiles & board game lovers Location: Café Voltaire More info: facebook.com/pg/ cafevoltairepg/events
Include: date, event name, brief description (25 words or less), location, contact and ticket information.
Adapted Aquatic Swims
The Citizen Scene publishes quarterly
FREE for disabled visitors and their immediate family members. Location: Four Seasons Leisure Pool More info: princegeorge.ca
Free Yoga in the Park Provided by Chinook Yoga. Location: Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park More info: princegeorge.ca
Fall events calendar features: September | October | November Winter* events calendar features: December | January | February *Issue dates are subject to change, and the calendar for each issue may be adjusted depending on publishing dates. **Events may be edited or omitted depending on space and for good taste.
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