December 28, 2011

YEAR IN REVIEW: Our picks of the top 10 sports stories of 2011 A10 Wednesday, December 28, 2011 A look back at the top community events in Prince George in 2011 A17-21

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Oh what a year!

Our picks for top stories

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■ 2011 in review

Prince George - News - Free Press

Legebekoff murder charges top story On Oct. 16 police hosted a press conference to announce three first-degree murder charges had been laid against Cody Alan Legebokoff, a 21-yearold Prince George man.

Legebokoff was arrested while in custody awaiting trial for the murder of 15-yearold Loren Donn Leslie from Fraser Lake.

The investigation, named E-Prelude, was a 10-month co-ordinated effort led by officers from the North District Major Crime unit and the Prince George RCMP Detachment Serious Crime unit.

It resulted in murder charges against Legebokoff in the cases of 35-year-old Jill Stacey Stuchenko, 35-year-old Cynthia Frances Maas and 23-year-old Natasha Lynn Montgomery.

When the women went missing, and later on when all but Montgomery’s body was found, there was discussion once again about the Highway of Tears and all the women who have gone

1

missing along that long lonely highway over the decades.

Following his arrest, and considering Legebokoff’s age, he could not have been involved with these older murders.

In fact, he didn’t come to the attention of police until a pair of officers noticed his vehicle coming out of a forestry service road in November of 2010.

When officers stopped his vehicle, they spotted evidence that lead to further searching, and eventually the discovery of Leslie’s body.

Following the charges, Legebokoff has made a few brief court appearances. Whether or not a publication ban will come into effect once the trial starts is unknown, as is whether or not there will be a change of venue.

Media outlets from the Calgary Herald to the Toronto Sun and Macleans magazine picked up the story of the man many described Fre e Pre s s file p h o to as ‘the boy next door’ Insp. Brendan Fitzpatrick announced in October that Cody Legebokoff had been charged with three more but who is now alleged counts of first-degree murder. to be a serial killer.

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At the same press conference, a $1 million donation from Henry Novak, whose family owns Dunkley Lumber, was announced, with the naming of the Novak Family Meditation and Spiritual Room.

West Fraser Timber also donated $1 million, with the West Fraser Timber Lounge being named in recognition.

schedule to open at the same time as the centre also got a new name in 2011. Mary Kordyban donated $2 million from a foundation established in 2007 in memory of her husband, Bill, who died from cancer.

“After my husband, Bill, died from cancer,” she told a press conference formally announcing the lodge would be known as Kordyban Lodge, “my desire, my wish, was

Council has familiar look after election

After Nov. 19, city council in Prince George had somewhat the same look, with six of the nine people around the table at the last meeting back for another term.

For the board of

3

education for School District 57, however, it was a different story, with just two of seven trustees back for another three years.

There were six candidates for mayor, with incumbent Dan Rogers being challenged by one-term

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was still taking place. There were a couple of milestones reached in 2011. By the end of May, the last of the cement trucks had left the site, next to the University Hospital of Northern B.C., and in July, the one-year anniversary of the groundbreaking was marked with a media tour of the facility to show how much had been accomplished in the first year.

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It was a busy year for the new cancer facilities in Prince George.

The cancer clinic hired some top staff, the cancer lodge got a name, and the media got a tour of the new centre as its construction continued on schedule.

The first major hiring for the BC Cancer Agency Centre for the North came in January, with Dr. Suresh Katakkar being hired a a medical oncologist, as well as being appointed regional professional practice leader in medical oncology.

By September, a number of other jobs had been filled in the radiation therapy area at the centre, which is scheduled to open in the late 2012. Dr. Narinder Sidhu, medical physics leader; Dr. Dilip Panjwani, radiation oncologist and RT leader for the north; Dr. Matthew Follwell, radiation oncologist; and Andrea Wolowski, director of clinical operations for radiation therapy, were added to the staff.

Dr. Ivo Olivotto, vice-president for radiation therapy and functional imaging with the agency, said the hiring process was a difficult one, but paid off in the end.

While staff were being hired for the centre, construction

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■ 2011 in review

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BILL PHILLIPS 250-564-0005 newsroom@pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com ■ 2011 in review

Canada Games adds staff, keeps plans The 2015 Canada Winter Games are a year closer to being held in Prince George, and the biggest story in 2011 may have been a change that never happened.

In June, city council voted to change the plans approved by the Canada Games Council by constructing a standalone arena at the Exhibition Grounds, rather than renovate Kin 1. The proposed new arena, as voted on by council, would have been in the middle of the Prince George Exhibition site.

At the next council meeting, Mayor Dan Rogers used mayoral privilege to bring the question up for another vote. With two councillors present who had not been at the first meeting and two others admitting they had not understood exactly what they were voting on, the measure Free Press file p h o to was defeated, and the Stuart Ballantyne was named the CEO for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, and, in his first official announce- renovations to Kin1 (and ment, said the Games would be held from Feb. 12 to March 1. to a lesser extent Kin 2)

4

will proceed.

The Games continued to proceed with planning on other fronts as well. In February, the founding members of the 2015 Canada Winter Games Host Society were announced.

Heading the first 11 members of the society was chair Anthony Everett, the CEO of the Northern British Columbia Tourism Association.

Six more members of the society were to be named later.

In August, after a lengthy search, Stuart Ballantyne was named the CEO for the Games.

Ballantyne brings a wealth of experience to the position, including being GM for both the Molson Indy in Vancouver and the 2006 World Junior Hockey Championship.

Ballantyne’s first official announcement was that the 2015 Canada Winter Games would begin on Tuesday, Feb. 12, and conclude on Sunday, March 1.

Madison Scott disappearance still a mystery 5 More than seven months after she disappeared, there are apparently still no solid leads in the case of Madison Scott.

A re-enactment video retraces the night of May 27 when the 20-year-old headed out to a party at Hogsback Lake, 25 kilometres south of Vaderhoof, with the intention of camping overnight.

She was last seen by friends at 3 a.m. on Saturday, May 28.

Her family called the Vanderhoof RCMP detachment on Sunday May 29 at 2 p.m. when she failed to return home.

Police who attended the area located her tent and her truck.

Police say that Scott’s phone was last used at 7 a.m. on Saturday morning - approximately four hours after she was last seen.

Volunteers from Vanderhoof, Burns Lake and Prince George Search and Rescue crews, along with both the Vanderhoof and Fort St. James RCMP detach-

ments and a number of concerned civilians, searched the area around Hogsback Lake in the days and weeks after her initial disappearance.

A swift water rescue team was also called in to assist.

More than 150 volunteers searched the area including shorelines, ATV trails and logging roads. The water was also scoured with boats equipped with underwater cameras and sonar.

A private reward of $25,000 was released by the Scott family in September for any information leading to the safe return of their daughter.

That figure has now been increased to $50,000 thanks to a donation from Brent and Kali Marshall and the Northland Auto Group.

Madison Scott is described as a 20-year-old Caucasian, five feet, four inches tall, 170 lbs. with ginger hair. She was last Fre e Pre s s file p h o to seen wearing a black T-shirt Susan McMullin, who works with Madison Scott’s uncle, Murray, organized a garage sale to and blue jean Capri pants. raise funds to help in the search for the Vanderhoof woman.

■ 2011 in review

Brian Skakun case clears court and council As far as city council is concerned, the Brian Skakun affair is finally over.

In 2008 Skakun leaked confidential documents, known as the Kitty Keller report, to CBC. The report reviewed the conduct of Ann

6

Bailey, the top civilian employee at the RCMP detachment at the time.

It dismissed allegations of harassment by civilian employees but called into question Bailey’s relationship with Prince George RCMP superintendent Dahl Chambers.

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Skakun maintained the disclosure was a last-ditch effort to help employees at the city, and that the voting public had a right to know what was going on.

To make matters more complex, another council member, Debora Munoz, who had a relationship with Skakun in 2005, is alleged to be the one who revealed he was the person who leaked the documents to the press.

Some people defend Skakun as a whistleblower, a man who spoke out for the underdog. Others rail against him.

Eventually, Skakun was convicted in provincial court and fined $750 for his actions.

He appealed the decision.

Meanwhile, following the conviction, city council felt it was time to let Skakun know how they felt about his actions and voted they would proceed against him

with censures and sanctions.

Skakun appealed that decision as well. By the time the judge said council had a right to proceed, municipal elections were underway.

Skakun requested certain counsellors not be part of the process to censure him, particularly Munoz and then mayor Dan Rogers. Both stepped aside, a move that left at the time mayoral hopeful Shari Green in charge of the meeting.

Green decided an apology would suffice.

Skakun’s supreme court trial is still bending.

Now she is mayor of the city and Skakun has been elected to council. Both say this council will be a hard-working cohesive team.

And he was elected in by a landslide, giving the citizens of the city the impression that they believe he is a whistle blower.

Fre e Pre s s file p h o to

Coun. Brian Skakun talks with media after being found guilty of leaking a confidential report.

Tasering report says RCMP acted correctly RCMP officers involved in the Tasering of an 11-year-old boy in April were cleared of any wrongdoing by a police investigation.

The incident

7

occurred April 7 after police received a report that a man had been stabbed by the boy. The Prince george RCMP release on the matter had few details, since the boy was in the custody

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of the Ministry of Children and Family Development at the time. It is believed the man was one of the boy’s caregivers.

The officer who administered the Taser had about 18 months’ experience at the time, and was, as is normal, taken off active duty during the investigation, as were other officers involved.

The investigation, which issued its report in September, was conducted by members of the West Vancouver Police Department, who concluded the police acted correctly, believing the boy was a danger to himself and others.

The officers involved have since returned to regular duty.

■ 2011 in review

Court next stop for treatment centre The Haldi Road women’s recovery centre has been news for every media outlet in the city from the time it was a proposal right until the fourth reading of the bylaw allowing for the necessary zoning changes passed, with controversy dogging every step forward.

It is likely to be a story that drags into the new year now that the neighbourhood has chosen to file a suit against the city for allowing the zoning to go through.

The idea of creating a women’s recovery centre met with strong resistance in the Haldi Road neighbourhood with signs peppering the lawns of local home owners stating as much.

At first, the major concern seemed to be lack of water, but when the developer said the well would be capped and water would be hauled in, the worries did not end.

Some locals accused the neighbourhood of NIMBYism (not in my backyard) while others took the stance that people have a right to say what sort of facilities they want in their neighbourhood.

The third reading of the bylaw brought residents out in droves to speak against the

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A number of signs opposed to the establishment of a women’s treatment centre on Haldi Road were vandalized shortly after being put up. centre, with only a handful present to say it was a good idea. However, the only issue that, legally, could change the minds at city hall had to be about land-use. Though they spoke about concerns revolving around security and quality of life, no concrete land-use issues were mentioned, and with a few conditions the bylaw passed its third reading.

The fourth reading did not

appear on the public agenda, so neighbours didn’t hear of it in time to rally one another to attend, something they say they would have done in spite of the fact they would not have been allowed to make presentations at that time.

That the item was removed from the agenda then replaced was a decision made by city staff, and came about because the necessary

paperwork from the land title office had yet to come back by Thursday. If it did come back in time, the developer was promised the item would be dealt with Monday.

However, Haldi Road residents reacted with a scathing letter to city hall and a lawsuit based on the belief the rezoning went against the Official Community Plan.

How this will play out in court remains to be seen.

Battle continues over Enbridge pipeline It’s been a year of battling press releases between Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline developers and environmentalist groups, with controversial deals and protests from First Nations bands thrown in the mix.

The project will run two parallel pipelines 1,177 km long between Bruderheim, Alberta and a marine terminal near Kitimat. Oil produced from the oil sands in Alberta will be shipped to Kitimat and liquid natural gas (LNG) will move from Kitimat to Alberta.

From the beginning of the process, First Nations bands have stated their concerns about what is perceived as a threat to the habitat since much of the proposed route runs through tradi-

9

tional lands.

Since these concerns were publicly stated by dozens of bands through the Joint Review Panel process, it came as a surprise when the Gitxsan nation announced it had brokered a deal and supported the pipeline route.

The announcement brought to head issues within First Nations bands surrounding the rights of elected versus traditional leaders, sparking a controversy that lead to the chief’s office being effectively shut down by protesters.

Meanwhile environmentalists continue to bring forward reports that question the safety of the pipeline, particularly when it pertains to natural habitat and wildlife. Other groups have already begun to work toward a mora-

torium on large tanker traffic along the B.C. coastline, which is in direct conflict with Enbridge’s plans considering the terminal near Kitimat is proposed to have two tanker berth platforms, one to serve very large crude carriers and the other for Suezmax-type LGN tankers.

Both Enbridge and environmentalist groups rally experts, statistics and spokespeople to forward their agendas.

Meanwhile Enbridge expects to finish the project by 2015, at a cost of $4.5 billion.

Considering everything that is at stake, both from a monetary and environmental point-of-view, the Enbridge pipeline will likely stay in the news through the new year.

Willier found guilty of 2010 murder Anthony Robert Willier, 22, was found g u i l t y of firstdegree murder in the Feb. 17, 2010 fatal shooting of Nathan Marshall.

The B.C. Supreme Court jury of nine men and three women returned with its verdict after about five hours of deliberations.

During the twoweek trial in August, court heard from pathologist Dr. James Stephen, who testified the cause of death was massive bleeding from

10

multiple gun shot wounds. Two of three bullet wounds found on Marshall’s body caused extensive damage to the heart, lung and other organs, he said.

A key witness at trial was Michelle Fulljames, Marshall’s girlfriend, who tearfully described the couple’s last few days together before he was found shot to death outside

their Hemlock Street duplex.

Other witnesses called by the Crown included a 911 operator, a neighbour and several RCMP officers.

Defence lawyer

Keith Aartsen did not call any witnesses on behalf of his client – nor is he required to.

B.C. Supreme Court Justice James Williams presided over the case.

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C Crime Stoppers is asking the publlic’s assistance in locating the folllowing person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As B oof 0830 hrs this 27th day December 22011, Derek James Raye PARENT ((B: 1983-03-24) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for B BREACH OF UNDERTAKINGB Derek James Raye RECOGNIZANCE. PARENT is dePARENT scribed as a First Nations male, 185 cm or 6’1” tall and weighs 77 kg or 185 cm or 6’1” 170 lbs. PARENT has brown hair 77 kg or 170 lbs. and brown eyes. PARENT should be considered violent

WA N T E D

Crime Stoppers is asking the public’s assistance in locating the following person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As of 0830 hrs this 27th day of December 2011, Brent Edward LANGAN (B: 1983-02-21) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant Brent Edward for CRIMINAL HARASSMENT. LANGAN is described as a CaucaLANGAN sian male, 178 cm or 5’10” tall and 178 cm or 5’10” weighs 98 kg or 216 lbs. LANGAN 98 kg or 216 lbs. has brown hair and brown eyes.

LANGAN should be considered violent.

WA N T E D

Crime Stoppers is asking the public’s aassistance in locating the following pperson who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As of 0830 C hrs h this 27th day December 2011, Linda L Anne MOONEY (B: 1964-0813) 1 is wanted on a British Columbia wide w warrant for THEFT UNDER $5000. MOONEY is described as Linda Anne an First Nations female, 163 cm or MOONEY 5’4” tall and weighs 73 kg or 161 lbs.

163 cm or 5’4” MOONEY has black hair and brown 73 kg or 161 lbs. eyes. MOONEY should be considered violent.

If you have information regarding these crimes call CRIMESTOPPERS

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Opinion Our look at 2011

The Prince George Free Press, founded in 1994, is published every Wednesday and Friday in Prince George by Prince George Publication Limited Partnership. Contents copyright of Prince George Publication Limited Partnership.

www.pgfreepress.com

W

elcome to our annual look back at the top stories of 2011.

It has been an interesting year, as all are; filled with ups and downs, spills and chills, and drama and doldrums.

In this issue we present our picks for the top 10 stories of 2011, as chosen by the staff at the Prince George Free Press. To do this, we present the staff with a list of about 20 of the top stories of the year. Each staff member is given a chance to rank their top 10 stories of the year. From that, we arrive at the top 10 stories of the year.

It should come as a surprise to no one that Cody Legebokoff, who is facing four murder charges, is the top story of the year in Prince George. While we bemoan the fact that we have, once again, hit Maclean’s magazine’s most dangerous cities list and grapple with the subsequent image problem, we also cannot ignore that these events have occurred.

We can, however, revel in the fact that 2011 has been a much better year in terms of reducing crime in the community.

It was probably a surprise to some that the BC Cancer Agency Centre for the North was the No. 2 story. Perhaps not as salacious as some of the other picks, but it certainly warrants its second-place ranking. This is the largest development in Prince George since the university was built. The impact of this facility will reverberate throughout the North.

The municipal election was also a clear choice for the No. 3 story of the year. The electorate was clamouring for a change and it delivered one. It will indeed be an interesting year as rookie mayor Shari Green sets out to “change the conversation” about Prince George.

We hope you enjoy those picks and the rest of our choices for the top stories of 2011. Let us know what you think about our picks ... yours will likely be different.

As for 2012, who knows what the top stories will be. One thing we do know is that it will be year like no other and it will also be year like all the others. There won’t be a shortage of issues to debate or stories to tell. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

We hope you have a wonderful 2012.

Party hardy, but get home safely

N

■ opinion

Amazing 2012 predictions

ew Year’s Eve is fast approaching, and it falls on a Saturday night this year. That means we will likely have lots of revellers out celebrating the arrival of the New Year.

If you are out celebrating and decide to have a few drinks, make sure to plan how you are going to get home. Make sure you have a designated driver, take the bus, call a cab, or use a service like Operation Red Nose that will get you home safely (although the latter options will likely be pretty busy).

You might have to wait a bit, however it’s better to wait at the party than in cells at the detachment officer or, worse yet, in the emergency room at the hospital.

Live it up, have a great time bringing in the New Year, but plan for a safe ride home.

Happy New Year from all of us here at the Prince George Free Press.

a legal document and legislated requirement for Rather than look back over the highs and lows municipalities, doesn’t mandate council to follow it. of the last year, I always like to gaze into my crysThere’s one for the mayor’s standing committal ball at this time of year and make some rather tee on business: When you talk about amazing predictions about the year to the cost of doing business with the city, come. the Official Community Plan is a doozy.

In case you’re wondering, I do have Communities are required, by law, to a pretty good track record. Last year I Writer’s update the plan every five years, which predicted that Moira Stilwell would not Block costs the city dearly, even though they become Liberal leader. Rather amazing Billphillips are not required to follow it. Then, if you insight on that one. want to rezone property and it requires I did predict that Christy Clark changes to the Official Community Plan, you have would become Liberal leader ... okay, technically I to pay for the cost of the rezoning and the costs predicted that either Christy Clark or Kevin Falcon associated with changing the Official Community would become Liberal leader. I still picked it.

Plan as well. Kind of a double-whammy. RegrettaSo, on to the amazingly accurate predictions for bly, there isn’t much the city can do about it except 2012. lobby the provincial government, as it is a provinI predict that the year won’t have the usual 365 cial law. days. It is a Leap Year so it could have 366, but the I also predict that there will be at least one world is also predicted to come to a screeching halt announcement regarding the Wood Innovation and on December 21. It could have 355 days, or it could Resource Centre in 2012 ... probably more. I’m not have 366, it just won’t have 365. going so far as to say construction will actually That one you can take to the bank, which if it’s only 355 days isn’t going to do you much good any- begin, but there’ll be some great announcements about it. way.

I predict that Prince George won’t be on I also predict that we won’t have an election Maclean’s magazine’s most dangerous cities list in this year. The only possibility for one comes from 2012. I always find it funny that we pan Maclean’s Premier Christy Clark, who still might unleash the when it picks us as one of the most dangerous citdogs of election wars early, but don’t count on it. ies, but love them when they pick UNBC as one I predict that the lawsuit filed by the Haldi Road of the top universities in the country. It’s just their residents upset with how the city handled the crime methodology that sucks. rezoning of the old school there will go nowhere. A My final prediction for 2012 is that Prince George few lawyers will make a few bucks (the city lawyers will continue to be northern B.C.’s capital and conat the taxpayers’ expense), but the lawsuit doesn’t tinue to be one of the best cities in Canada. have legs. The Official Community Plan, while Circulation Manager........................ Heather Trenaman Email: circulation@pgfreepress.com..............250-564-0504

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This Prince George Free Press is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org * Based on Stats Canada average of 2.2 person per household. ** CCAB Audit March 2009.

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The world may end, but don’t let love

rent events with ancient I know I’m stepping prophecies, making a out on a limb here and generation of kids uncergoing against centuries tain about of ancient whether or wisdom, but not they’d get my big preLife in a chance to diction for grow up and the new year the fat raise a family. is the world lane And you will not end DelyndaPilon can’t just in 2012, no blame this kind of thinkmatter what the Mayans ing on religious fervour. or Harold Camping said.

Right now we have (Oh, ya -that’s right. extreme environmentalHe predicted the world ists preaching from a would end May 21, 2011, similar pulpit, predicting and apparently in spite of that mankind is etching what your eyes tell you, its own destruction every he was correct. He just day, and unless we give forgot to mention it was up flush toilets, furnaces going to be an invisible and bottled water, we are judgment day, which is all doomed. (Personally how the rest of us poor I prefer the ‘green’ folks yucks missed it.) who have a sensible plan If I am right, and you in place on how to live wake up with all your with, and somewhat mitilimbs in place and the gate the effects of, climate blow-up Santa on your change. It’s kind of sad lawn isn’t surrounded that the voice of common by an army of screaming sense is often drowned demons on Jan. 1 of 2013, out by the scream of please send me $1. If you extreme rhetoric.) think I’m wrong, please Now I don’t want to send me $20 today. After give the impression that I all, you aren’t going to be don’t believe in the words needing it anyway.

It’s kind of strange how written in the scriptures. I have read them, and conlong humanity has been tinue to do so as I marvel caught up in the idea of at the deeper meaning some sort of Armagedbehind the words. Those don, likely since we meanings seem to become started etching scenes clearer to me as I grow from what, in the future, older and as my life expewould be the hunting rience grows. But why are channel, on cave walls. we, the sons and daughI remember going to the ters of those crazy travelmovies and actually payling Puritans, so quick ing to watch The Late to skip from Genesis to Great Planet Earth in Revelations, from the the late ‘70s. This, by the beginning of days, with way, is not a movie that its gushing fountains, goes well with popcorn gorgeous gardens and figand orange Crush. It was leaf fashions to the pages terrifying, tying in cur-

filled with blood, gore, curses and horses carrying death angels (this, by the way, is not the angel most folks use as a Christmas tree topper)?

Right now, with all the economic uncertainty out there, the globe is going through a difficult time.

Perhaps some people find it comforting to tie all that in with what Nostradamus predicted. But I

have to ask myself, does it really matter? What can we do, really, but our best to love our family and friends while trying to make the world we live in the best we can?

Each one of us has the power to make another person smile, to share a burden with a friend, to speak kindly when we have the right to be enraged. We can be better,

softer and kinder people.

Because, the truth is, life is scary enough without considering an apocalypse. Every day we have with those we love is precious since, every day, each of us is moving a bit closer to our own end of days. Life is finite.

But love isn’t.

So I hope your new year is full of love, light and happiness. I hope

you can take all the rest of the scary predictions with a grain of salt and a grin.

I hope that, at least once a week, something funny takes you by surprise so quickly, you can’t quell a snort.

And, as an old Irish blessing says, “In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want.”

Mercer Holds Court

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Rick Mercer of CBC interviews UNBC Northern Timberwolves guard Inderbir Gill for the Mercer Report in March at the Northern Sport Centre. For winning the Spread the Net Challenge among Canadian universities, UNBC won the top prize of a visit by Mercer. As part of his visit, Mercer shot hoops with members of the Timberwolves and joined UNBC students for a rally at the Winter Garden.

Boxing Day Blockheads in a rush to get nowhere

shut the office down. So I’m at work this The week between Christmas and week, but some things don’t change.

New Year’s is always a strange one for I’m still hoping half the town doesn’t people who work at community newsburn down. papers.

Shall we amble?

I have worked at papers • I drove around a bit on which just shut down for Boxing Day, but didn’t do any the week. The office was shopping because I couldn’t closed, whatever paper Allan’s find any parking spots within needed to be done for the Amblings a country mile of any of the week was done before AllanWishart stores I was thinking about Christmas and sent off to going to. the press, and I spent most And this wasn’t at 6 a.m. or 8 a.m. or of the week hoping nothing major hapwhenever the store opened its doors. pened – like half the town burning This was later in the morning, and the down. parking lots were still packed.

Luckily, nothing like that ever hapI can only assume the need to get to pened, and it just meant having to do these sales was why a fair number of some catch-up the first few days back at people were driving in the Blockhead work. style that day. I love the idea of them In Prince George, though, we don’t

driving 70 in the city, weaving in and out of traffic to get to the store quicker, then having to drive around for about 10 minutes looking for a parking spot.

• As I looked at the choices we came up with for the Top 10 news stories of 2011 in Prince George, I was struck by what stories didn’t make the list.

For instance, truly defining what community newspapers do, the municipal election was one of our top vote-getters, while the federal election and changes at the top of the two major provincial parties finished well down the list.

• As I get ready for the last two nights of Operation Red Nose on Friday and Saturday, I’m thankful they are the last two nights.

I enjoy helping out on the phones, but it seems to take about a week to get my

sleep patterns back to normal, which is usually just about the time the next Red Nose night is.

If Saturday is anything like every other New Year’s Eve I’ve been on Red Nose for, the pattern will be this: Sort of busy in the evening, then almost completely quiet from about 11:30 p.m. to midnight.

Then, at 12:01 a.m., we start to get the calls from people whose idea is, “Threetwo-one, Happy New Year!!! Hello, Operation Red Nose?”

And then it won’t let up until 3 a.m.

A word of advice: If you’re one of those 12:01 a.m. people, call us at 250962-RIDE (7433) about 11:50 p.m. or so.

That way, there’s a good chance our team will be there about the time you’re ready to leave.

Free Press reserves the right to reject unsigned letters. Letters are edited for brevity, legality and taste. Contact Editor Bill Phillips, 250-564-0005

LACROSSE: Senior league looks north for expansion A14

Sports

A local volleyball team claimed provincial silver A12

Alistair McInnis 250-564-0005 sports@pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com ■ 2011 in review

Canada West gives UNBC the thumbs-up Canada West finally opened its doors to UNBC this year.

An ongoing process years in the making ended in September with the positive result the university’s athletics department had been seeking.

While people can argue that the real work truly begins in 2012, it’s hard not looking back at September 2011 as being a historic month for UNBC. With the university receiving the necessary 75 per cent majority vote to become a full member of the Canada West Universities Athletic Association (CWUAA), the pieces are in place for the Northern Timberwolves to start competing in Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) basketball and soccer next September.

Through an electronic vote, more than 84 per cent

1

of CWUAA members voted yes to UNBC joining Canada West. CWUAA directors had five business days to reply with their votes following a special conference call on Sept. 12.

“I’m am very excited for our region, our amazing fans, and our student-athletes and coaches as we take this large step forward to bringing the best and brightest to UNBC and our community,” UNBC President George Iwama stated in a press release.

At the 2011 CIS annual general meeting in Victoria in June, UNBC fell only a couple of votes short of the required 75 per cent majority. They took advantage of an opportunity to re-apply in late July.

The special meeting was called by members of the CWUAA executive. President Sandy Slavin noted that they were already making adjust-

ments with Calgary’s Mount Royal University joining in the new year, so they wanted to give UNBC another chance at gaining acceptance for 2012-13.

Under previous athletic director Len McNamara, UNBC first applied to join Canada West in 2008, attempting to join the sports governing body as a probationary member in basketball. At the 2009 Canada West AGM, the CWUAA deferred making a decision for a year on whether to grant membership to UNBC and two other applicants, UBC-Okanagan and Vancouver Island University.

A year later, UNBC and VIU were denied membership while UBC-O got accepted. A year ago, UNBC adjusted its bid to propose soccer join two years after basketball.

Further adjustments to the bid came this year as the

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Adding soccer to the mix may have been one of the key elements in UNBC being accepted into Canada West for the 2012-13 season CWUAA made yet another deferral on making a UNBC membership decision at its AGM in May. Another month was provided for

UNBC to adjust its application. The bid team came back with a enhanced application, which included a proposal to increase their budget by

$200,000, extra funds to cover the hiring of full-time soccer coaches, a full-time sports information director and offset additional travel costs.

World baseball back Cougars’ struggles continue 3 2

The World Baseball Challenge returned for a second time to Prince George in July.

Coming off the success of the first tournament of its kind in the city in 2009, organizers were hoping for a bigger and better WBC in 2011.

To the credit of organizers, they were able to raise the profile of the event with a larger international presence at Citizen Field. The tournamentwinning Cubans led the way, taking the title in their first visit to Prince George. But the ability to attract three Asian teams to a tournament which had none two years prior was another impressive feat for organizers.

The runner-up Chinese Taipei, Toshiba-Japan and the Beijing Tigers also competed in their first WBC. The July 12 feature game between the host Canadians and Cuba drew 3,950 spectators.

That was all positive. But just like the inaugural tournament in 2009, the 2011 event faced its share of challenges.

Prior to the competition, organizers learned that there wouldn’t be a U.S. representative. Then something beyond organizers’ control during the tournament affected the competition in a significant way.

The 2011 WBC was held during one of Prince George’s wettest July’s on record, and rainfall throughout the competition created scheduling challenges.

“When you lose one third of your tournament to rain, including the Opening Night and two Canadian feature games, you’re not going to reach the revenue numbers that you shot for and expected to do and projected,” WBC co-chair Jim Swanson said shortly after the tournament’s final game ended on July 17.

Considering how the Prince George Cougars’ 2009-10 season went, looking at the team’s first half of 2011 negatively might seem a little harsh.

But it wouldn’t have taken much to improve on a campaign in which the Cougars finished in the Western Hockey League basement with 12 wins, 56 losses, one overtime defeat and three shootout setbacks (12-56-13). They improved to 33-352-2 in the 2010-11 season, a mark which left them seventh in the 10-team Western Conference and set up a first-round playoff series with the B.C. Division-winning Kelowna Rockets (4328-0-1).

But the Cats, a team which led the five-team B.C. Division standings early in the new year, struggled in January and February. A late push helped the team sneak into the playoffs, but then they dealt with disappointment on and off the ice.

While the Rockets were on their way to sweeping the Cougars in the best-ofseven first round series, rumours were circulating that Cougars owner Rick Brodsky was looking to sell the team to a group interested in relocating the team to Chilliwack. Relocation rumours involving money-losing teams in the WHL heated up with news out of the Lower Mainland that a deal had reportedly

Prince George Free Press sports editor Alistair McInnis is in Calgary until Jan. 6 following the World Junior Hockey Championships.

He’s also been reporting on the progress of the Cariboo Cougars at the Mac’s Tournament.

For updates and columns on both events,, visit www.pgfreepress.com

been made to relocate the Chilliwack Bruins to Victoria under new ownership.

The Bruins’ move to Victoria became official in a WHL announcement in Victoria in April.

The rumours were circulating while the Cougars were attempting to gather support for their bid to host the 2013 Memorial Cup. Those efforts proved unsuccessful, as the Cougars discovered in June they weren’t among the few teams shortlisted. The Saskatoon Blades were successful, finding out in October they’d beaten out the two other teams still challenging to host the event, the Red Deer Rebels and Kelowna Rockets.

Millionaires’ move UNBC goes back to nationals means lonely Kings 5 4 When the Quesnel Millionaires relocated to the Fraser Valley to become the Chilliwack Chiefs, the move altered the look of the B.C. Hockey League.

No team felt the loss of the Mills more than the Prince George Spruce Kings, who saw their travel budget increase by more than $15,000. Once the Mills got sold to be relocated to Chilliwack under new ownership, a move made official in May, the Spruce Kings became the only BCHL team north of Salmon Arm. Spruce Kings president Darcy Buryn was interviewed in May to discuss his reaction to the move.

While disappointed by the loss, he said they’d try to take whatever positive out of it they could.

“Not having Quesnel is going to be different and we have to find a way to react to that, and turn it

into whatever advantage we can,” he said. “If there’s one less team scouting the northern players then hopefully that’s something that we can use to our advantage.”

As recently as February 2010, the Spruce Kings had two regional rivals from the Cariboo, each within a three-hour drive of each other.

But with the Millionaires out of Quesnel and a dormant franchise in Williams Lake showing no signs of returning to life, it appeared like the Spruce Kings would have to stand as the BCHL’s only northern entry.

The change has raised doubts the Spruce Kings could stay in Prince George in the long run, with the team is looking at Merritt as its closest BCHL rival, 560 kilometres away.

The sale of the Millionaires marked the end of 35 years of Millioniares history in Quesnel.

Junior football visits Masich Place Stadium was the host site of a B.C. Football Conference exhibition game in the summer.

On July 23, the Kamloops Broncos and Chilliwack Huskers junior teams hit the gridiron in a contest held to gather interest in Prince George’s efforts to land a BCFC expansion franchise.

The Huskers won the game by a 19-14 score.

While the game showcased the league, Prince George talent was also on display.

The Kamloops and Chilliwack rosters each had six players

6

from the region. For one of the local products on the Huskers, defensive back Nick Wingfield, the victory came on his 19th birthday.

The event attracted more than 500 people to Masich Place Stadium and upwards of 50 people volunteered during the game.

Funds from admission supported the Prince George Minor Football Association and costs associated with the city’s push for a junior football franchise.

On top of players and coaches from Kamloops and Chilliwack, officials from southern

B.C. travelled north for the weekend. In addition to the game, referee sessions were held July 23 and 24.

Among the visitors to Prince George for the game was BCFC president Frank Naso, who complimented the game’s organization, volunteers and the growth of minor football in the city.

Getting into the BCFC is a lengthy process, with 2013 the earliest Prince George could join the league.

The Prince George bid team was required to send in a business proposal, and then get a majority vote in 2012.

The UNBC Northern Timberwolves made their third consecutive appearance at men’s basketball nationals in March.

In this year’s Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA) championship tournament in Oshawa, Ont., UNBC finished tied with the NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) Ooks of Edmonton for fifth in the eight-team competition with a 1-2 record.

The Timberwolves’ win came against the host Durham College Lords, a 72-67 triumph on March 18.

The Timberwolves were unable to successfully defend the national title they captured at the 2010 CCAA tournament in Calgary a year earlier.

They finished fourth as hosts of the 2009 competition at the Northern Sport Centre.

UNBC entered the 2011 competition ranked fourth. After a 16-2 record in the 201011 regular season, they secured a wildcard berth for advancing to the B.C. Colleges Athletic Association final against the Vancouver Island University Mariners. The Mariners won that game, played in Abbotsford on March 5, by a 96-90 score.

In the 2010 nationals, the Timberwolves won gold with a 96-63 triumph over the host SAIT (Southern

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UNBC Northern Timberwolves guard Sam Raphael drives towards the hoop during college basketball provincials in Abbotsford.

UNBC received a wildcard for the nationals, finishing tied for fifth.

Alberta Institute of Technology) Trojans in the final.

The Vanier College Cheetahs defeated the Lethbridge College Kodiaks 102-85 in the final on March 19. The Kodiaks defeated the two BCCAA represen-

tatives, the Timberwolves and Mariners, en route to the championship game.

On March 21, only two days after nationals wrapped up for the Timberwolves, Rick Mercer of CBC visited UNBC. The university

was featured in the Mercer Report for winning the Spread the Net Challenge among Canadian universities, and while he was at the university, Mercer shot hoops with members of the men’s basketball team.

Cougars claim silver in provincial volleyball The College Heights Cougars had the lead in the provincial boys volleyball final.

But they weren’t able to finish off Mennonite

7

Educational Institute (MEI) of Abbotsford in the championship match of the B.C. high school boys volleyball double-A provincials in Kelowna.

The Cougars

accepted silver on Dec. 3, falling short by a 3-2 (21-25, 23-25, 25-16, 25-19, 15-9) score against MEI. “All these matches were great and the team showed much

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Fre e Pre s s file p h o to

College Heights Cougars middle Wayne Woyciehouski unwinds for a hit against the Duchess Park Condors during the championship match of the North Central District boys volleyball double-A zone tournament. The Cougars went on to win silver at the provincials. enthusiasm, passion and character toward being their best,” Cougars head coach Jay Guillet stated in a press release. “We (coaches) are very proud of how the boys approached, prepared and supported each

other this weekend. I stressed that we can’t control what another team does or how well they play, but we can control what we do to prepare for each match.”

Four College Heights players, each

a Grade 12 student, were named all-stars at the B.C. tournament. Middle Wayne Woyciehouski made the first-team while power Nolan Schwab, right side Austin Cromarty and setter Warren Bachand were sec-

ond-team selections.

Also representing Prince George in the 16-team tournament, the Duchess Park Condors finished fourth.

They lost 3-0 (25-20, 25-11, 25-14) to Langley Christian in the bronze medal match.

This past year saw major changes at the Prince George Motorsports Park.

One noticeable difference came with the International Hot Rod Association coming on board to sanction drag races during the 2011 season.

Another change came with entry, as barriers which made it more difficult to enter drag races were removed.

Participants had to sign a waiver, pass a vehicle inspection and carry a valid driver’s licence at a minimum of a Class 7 (novice).

Participants were required to wear hel-

mets for the races, which gained the support of the RCMP and ICBC. “We have this available for the entire community to use on Friday nights, to be able to show up and run pretty much any type of vehicle out here to see how it goes, to run against your friends,

to come out and have a good time in a safe manner. It’s a win-win,” Northland Dodge president Brent Marshall said during a media event in May, launching the 2011 season. Northland Dodge was the title sponsor of the Friday Night Street Legal races in 2011.

On top of the drag racing changes, motocross returned to the site off Chief Lake Road, with races held on a dirt track near the quarter-mile drag strip.

The Prince George Motocross Association (PGMA) relocated to the area from the track off Blackwater Road.

While the change was welcomed with open arms by members of the association, it wasn’t new territory for motocross in the region.

Motocross races were also held on the track more than 15 years ago, but conflicts between the land owner and motocross group led to the initial move to the Blackwater site. Following a spring series event in June at the park off Chief Lake Road, PGMA president Mark Nelson noted that the dirt in the new location was sandier and it was easier getting access to water.

City racing becomes a drag

RANDY ORTON

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The league expanded outside of city limits to welcome the Mackenzie Lumberjacks, increasing the league from four to five teams. The addition didn’t result in a change in playoff format, but regular-season scheduling adjustments were made to accommodate Mackenzie.

The Shooters Pub Devils, College Heights Pub Assault, BX Pub Bandits and

9

Riverstone/Regional Security Stylers rounded out the fiveteam loop.

To reduce travel time and costs, Mackenzie played its games on Saturdays and Sundays. The first three weekends, from April 30 until May 15, those games were held in Prince George.

For three consecutive weekends after Victoria Day, Mackenzie played host to doubleheaders, as the Stylers (May 28 and 29),

More Than Just PG AQUATICS The Aquatic Divisions regular hours of operation will apply during the holiday season with these exceptions:

PG Aquatic Centre Holiday Hours: December 31st – 8:00am - 7:00pm Toonie Swim from 2:00 - 7:00pm (Fun Leader will be playing games for children)

January 1st, 2012 – 11:30am - 5:30pm

Four Seasons Leisure Pool will remain closed for maintenance shut-down and will re-open on January 7, 2012 Four Seasons Leisure Pool • 250-561-7636 • 775 Dominion Street ~ Aquatic Centre • 250-561-7787 • 1770 George Paul Lane www.princegeorge.ca

Bandits (June 11 and 12) and Devils (June 18 and 19) made trips north.

Mackenzie managed to qualify for playoffs in its first season, grabbing the fourth and final berth. But their postseason was shortlived, as they were swept by the Assault in the best-of-five

The weather wasn’t great, and the cold temperatures and snowfall affected turnout.

But the organizer of the inaugural Northern Regional Pond Hockey Championships was still pleased with the event held at West Lake Provincial Park from Jan. 14 to 16.

“It was great hockey, super competitive, very fast,” John Reed said.

“When it gets to the semifinals and the finals, teams take it very seriously.”

Thirty-two teams registered for the tournament. In the end, there were two championship squads on Jan. 16, Top Cheese P in the recreational 19+ men’s division and Artesians in the masters 35+ category.

No final was held in the men’s

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competitive 19+ division. Reed figured a massive dump of snow overnight played a factor in that final not being held. The snowfall left many people opting to stay home the morning of Jan. 16.

Reed thanked everybody who helped make the inaugural event a success, including a few people from West Lake who helped clear the snow off the ice before the finals.

About 25 volunteers helped run the event through the weekend, noted Reed.

“I thought it was great. We had a phenomenal, phenomenal core team of people that went way, way over and above.”

Reed has been back working at preparations for the 2012 event, scheduled for Jan. 20 to 22 at West Lake. For more information, visit www.bcpondhockey.com.

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opening round series, while the Stylers fell short of the playoffs.

The Lumberjacks represented the first senior sports team in Mackenzie since the Moose, a senior AA hockey team, folded in 2008. The Moose were members of the Central Interior Hockey League.

Pond hockey games battled cold weather

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Northern Gateway.

Join the conversation.

An open letter to British Columbians: My name is Janet Holder. I am a British Columbian and the executive responsible for leading Enbridge’s Northern Gateway Project, which includes a pipeline that would deliver oil to Kitimat, BC for distribution to world markets.

If you haven’t heard of Northern Gateway, you certainly will. Public hearings on the project begin in January and I know they will generate significant attention, both positive and negative.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION You’ll find information, and experts who can help you get to the bottom of the issues at:

NorthernGatewayFacts.ca

My purpose for writing this open letter to you stems from a deep personal and professional commitment to ensure that we respect everyone’s right to a fair say. We have a long tradition of listening to all opinions. For over six decades, it’s how we’ve done business and will continue to do business.

I invite you to engage in the conversation based on informed, knowledge-based opinions, which are grounded in balanced facts and realities. Enbridge encourages you to get involved and join what will be an unprecedented and critical discussion and debate.

We will help at every turn to listen and respond to your questions, or point you directly to places and people where you can engage in the conversation, whether in support or not.

All we ask is that you do so with a sense of fair-minded investigation, civility and a thorough grasp of the issues, some straightforward, but many complex.

We fully accept the responsibility of earning your trust and confidence regarding the high standards and expectations of this project. So begin your journey at our website, follow our blogs, follow the facts and join the conversation with us.

Janet Holder Executive Vice President Western Access Enbridge Inc.

A16

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Prince George - Counter

Attack - Free Press

www.pgfreepress.com

COUNTER ATTACK this Holiday Season!

The top myths about drinking and driving: I can hold my booze:

PLEASE DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!

Too many guys think drinking a six-pack of beer and then driving is OK, which is why 81 per cent of all impaired drivers in alcoholrelated crashes are male*. So guys, if you think driving drunk will impress the ladies, think again. Remember those pick-up lines you thought sounded slick but actually acted as repellent? Alcohol not only impairs your ability to score a date, it impairs your vision, concentration and ability to react to unexpected hazards on the road.

I know that I’m sober enough to drive: While you may be able to see and walk without staggering after drinking a few beers the reality is you can’t always tell when impairment kicks in — it actually starts with your rst drink. Alcohol affects more than your vision and coordination. It affects your judgment, attention span, alertness, reaction time and ability to do more than one task at a time — vital things you need when you get behind the wheel.

All I need is something to eat and I’ll be ne: 1599 S. Quinn St. While having a burger with your beer is a good idea, a full stomach is not an effective defence against impaired driving. And no amount Afterhours & Weekends 565-8562 of coffee, cold showers or fresh air will sober you up either. The only cure is time. In fact, it takes about six hours for your body to eliminate all the alcohol from your body when you have a blood alcohol concentration of .08, the legal limit.

Keep the holiday season safe and happy.

I won’t get caught: Police have stepped Be responsible. Please don’t Drink & Drive. up CounterAttack roadchecks across the province this summer. Drivwww.unitedwaynbc.ca ers impaired by alcohol or drugs face a range of penalties from 24-hour North West North Central North East driving prohibitions and #202-4630 Lazelle Ave 1600 – 3rd Avenue 9325 – 100th Street vehicle impoundments, Terrace, BC V8G 1S6 Prince George, BC V2L 3G6 Fort St. John, BC V1J 4N4 90-day administrative Tel: 250-635-3701 Tel: 250-561-1040 Tel: 250-263-9266 driving prohibitions to criminal charges, nes and jail time.

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I don’t drink and drive but driving after a joint is ne: Numerous studies have shown that “stoned” drivers can be every bit as dangerous as drunk drivers. Depending on what you’ve smoked, swallowed or injected, drug impairment ranges from slowed reexes, awed depth perception to hallucinations and seizures. And if you’ve been mixing alcohol and drugs and are tired from partying all night, this combination can be even deadlier. New legislation now allows police to test drivers for drug impairment and charge those who refuse to provide blood, saliva or urine samples.

To learn more information and safe driving tips, visit www.icbc.com.

® ®

www.pgfreepress.com

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

EVENTS: Baldy Hughes provided another highlight of the year A19

Community

A17

The Rolling Stones weren’t here, but “Tattoo you?” was heard A18

teresa Mallam 250-564-0005 arts@pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com ■ 2011 in review

KISS was ready to rock all night . . .

The curtain came down with a thud and when it came back up, the CN Centre stage looked like a Canada Day fireworks display.

Boom! Lights! Flames!

During the intro, our eyes were drawn to giant video screens with Google Earth zooming in from outer space to Prince George and into the CN Centre. That set things up for the world famous talents of KISS. The iconic glam-rock band wasted no time June 29 revving up the crowd of over 5,000. They played, rock-walked and – cheeky devils – posed for pictures. Frontman Gene Simmons grinned into the reporter’s lens.

Bare-chested and sexy singer-guitarist Paul Stanley sprawled on the stage, smiled at frenzied female fans on the floor, and rolled out his tongue to reveal a very wet guitar pick.

After 37 years, 37 albums, gold and platinum galore, $80 million in record sales and countless world tours, KISS still delivers for their fans.

Since the 1970s, a live KISS show means lots of tongue, tease, theatrics and pryrotechnics.

But for this show their song list, dispensed over two incredible hours, included tracks from their new album (the first in 11 years), Sonic Boom.

From their arsenal: Rock City, Cold Gin, Calling Dr. Love, Say Yeah, Deuce, Let Me Go, Beth, Detroit Rock City.

When it got really loud, and the reporter asked KISS army members the names of the songs, they couldn’t say.

It’s not about the music or they lyrics, they said, it’s the KISS experience.

Fre e Pre s s file p h o to And for many of us, the Kiss came ready to rock the way they have for so many years, and the crowd at CN Centre responded to CN Centre show was an every song they played. experience of a lifeltime.

. . . but Lightfoot was cool Gordon Lightfoot played CN Centre Nov. 23.

A crowd of about 1,600 heard the Canadian icon play his hits as well as some lesserknown material.

After playing a few new songs, Lightfoot didn’t disappoint, delivering many of his hits... from the moving Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald to If You Could Read My Mind, Rainy Day People, Ribbon of Darkness, Carefree Highway and, of

The legend that is Gordon Lightfoot played CN Centre in November. A crowd of about 1,600 heard the Canadian icon play his hits as well as some lesser-known material.

Fre e P re s s f i l e p h o t o

course, to Sundown.

His only glitch was when he messed up a line on Beautiful and hummed his way through. However, not wanting to leave the crowd hanging, he finished the song, chatted with his band for a moment, and then replayed the offending stanza, complete with the lyrics done perfectly. Perfectly now is a little different than what Lightfoot’s legion of fans remember from the early days in the

1960s and 70s.

Having just turned 73 years old, his voice isn’t quite what it used to be. However that’s the reality of life behind the microphone and the very appreciative crowd didn’t mind, giving rousing ovations after every song. And the familiar golden tones did resonate on the low end of the scale.

It was truly a special evening.

The legend that is Gordon Lightfoot does indeed live on.

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■ 2011 in review

Tattooing a work of art Some of world’s best came to city for a show In the world of tattoos, anything is possible – including having a full-colour portrait of your loved one on your back or wearing a heart on your “sleeve”.

However, they come with a warning: tattoos can be addictive.

At the Alberta Bound Tattoo and Arts Festival, which made a colourful splash at the Civic Centre from July 22 to 24, hundreds of locals took their ideas and sketches to top tattoo artists to get new artwork on their bodies. Tattoo artist Brandi Lee explains that her

NEW! Puzzle # 557

clients want more and more face and body tattoos as a form of self expression.

It says something about who they are,” she said.

Sam Wourms, who already has several body tattoos and got one at the July festival, agrees they can become “an obsession.”

Lucky Diamond Rich holds the Guinness World Record (2009) for world’s most tattooed person – his tattoos cover his entire body, even the inside of his foreskin, mouth and ears. The celebrated juggler and street performer (he also

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swallows swords), originally from New Zealand, was on hand to talk with visitors and perform his tattoo artistry.

Richie Lucero from Honolulu also made an appearance doing tattoos for a number of local people.

Tyler Phillips of Dragon Effects, Edmonton won best original design of the day (Sunday) for a tattoo of grey and black skulls that took him seven hours to complete. What part of the body is the most painful for working on a tattoo?

“The ribs,” says Phillips.

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It’s very unikely the person getting a tattoo from Lucky Diamond Rich will ever have as many as the artist.

Trooper gave PGX fans a really good time They were there for a good time – and that’s what they got.

Trooper put on a stellar show in August for a sold-out crowd at the 2011 Prince George Exhibition.

About 1,400 ticket holders who poured into Kin 1 Centre waved their arms and swayed to the music as the iconic Canadian rock band played dozens of songs spanning

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three decades of hits.

They also gave the crowd some newly minted tunes.

“We just celebrated our 35th anniversary,” said front man Ra McGuire to loud cheers from the audience.

The band opened – and saved for an encore – their big hit from 1977, We’re Here For a Good Time. And clearly they were. The boys who, along with Brian Smith, include Scott Brown on bass, Clayton Hill on drums and Gogo on keyboards are a cohesive force who have lots of fun with onstage antics.

During the show they played tunes the crowd knew by heart: Two for the Show, Round Round We Go, General Hand Grenade, Three Dressed Up as a Nine, The Boys in the Bright White Sportscar. The band aced their performance of Santa Maria inspired by a boat trip to Tugwell Island near Prince Rupert.

For sure, a good time was had by all and memories of the night Trooper took Prince George by storm will likely last a long time.

■ 2011 in review

Baldy Hughes grads mark accomplishment

Graduation Day is always a major milestone, a happy event to be shared with family and friends.

The proud achievement may be even more significant for eight men at the Baldy Hughes Addiction Treatment Centre and Therapeutic Community.

They had to fight personal battles to reach their goal.

Walking across the stage last March in traditional gowns and mortarboards to receive their Dogwood (B.C. Secondary School equivalency certificates), the men gave short speeches – some prepared, some off the cuff – to express what high school graduation meant to them. For some students it was a long awaited victory.

“Miracles do happen at Baldy Hughes,” said a 34-yearold man who had dropped

out of school in Grade 10 – 18 years ago. “I’ve been clean and sober for one year,” he said amid applause from the audience.

He credited the centre with allowing him to reach his goal.

“I tried to go back (to school) many times but I always failed because of my addictions. So thank you all.”

Kevin England, chair of B.C. New Hope Recovery Society (the governing body of Baldy Hughes), offered his congratulations.

“This is as amazing day, to see what you guys have done,” he said. “It’s a lot easier to stay on the street than to face our demons and go on this (recovery) journey...”

The addictions recovery facility had helped 26 men get their high school equivalency as of March 2011.

Fre e Pre s s file p h o to

Graduate and resident Jason P. (third from left) gets congratulations from Baldy Hughes program director Megan Kennedy, teacher Peter Goudal and (right) director Theo Warkentin.

Jimmy Rankin mixes past and present in great show Jimmy Rankin rocked the rafters at Artspace May 31.

The singer-songwriter was on his Forget About the World 2011 cross-country tour – named after his fourth album.

“They’re calling it a country, pops, roots

record,” said Rankin.

“I’ll take that.” (He laughed.)

With guitar guru Jamie Robinson, Rankin put on a sizzling show with much-plugged tracks from his new CD. Between songs, Rankin told stories, some funny, some sad,

with biographical notes from his days touring and recording with the Rankin Family.

“I knew I’d never play the fiddle like (brother) John Morris,” he said. “So I chose the guitar and songwriting as my thing to do.”

Indeed, Rankin

shone in his own right.

His vocals are amazing, his lyrics are soulful.

He pours his heart into every song. Rankin turned up the audience tear-o-meter with Hurtin’ Part (of My Heart) a break-up, emotiondrenched country song.

night Angel, written

by Rankin after seeing seagulls at night that looked like angels. The

But it was Rankin’s up-tempo song penned in Winnipeg called Wasted (written after a night on the town) that got the audience clapping along as the artist accompanied himself on guitar and harmonica.

They also liked Mid-

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■ 2011 in review

Finishing

the

Job

Fans of great guitar playing revelled in the appearance of Pavlo at the Prince George Playhouse.

Free Press file photo

Pavlo displays guitar work Pavlo brought all the fun, festive mood and endless energy of a great Greek wedding to the Prince George Playhouse on Oct. 25.

Bravo, Pavlo!

The self styled Mediterranean music maestro and his band put on a first-rate all-instrumental show that quite honestly defies words. In a style sexy, seduc-

tive and saucy, Pavlo blends elements of flamenco, classical and Latin music for a performance that is pure magic.

Leaving the technical terms for his great guitar gifts, riffs and rhythms to musicians who know their stuff, suffice to say Pavlo enjoys a very rare and beautiful love affair with his guitar and he connects with

the audience in a very special way. Music critics say when Pavlo performs, words are not needed because his guitar “speaks from the soul.”

From the moment he first appeared on stage, the world music artist charmed and captivated the crowds with his warmth, vitality and sense of humour.

Pause For Paws

Free Press file photo

Local artist Jade Hoffman does some touch-up work on First Nations art on a pillar in the foyer at Ron Brent Elementary.

Fre e Pre s s file p h o to

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW)

Kopar Administration is proud to present the TIOW employment program for Prince George ‘Opportunities North’, is designed for individuals 55-64 years of age who are unemployed and seeking to re-enter the labour market.

This 12 week intensive employment program offers skills, training, and income support for eligible participants.

Who is this for?

Participants must meet the following eligibility criteria: •Unemployed •Between 50-64, (emphasis on 55-64) and 65+ (if planning to stay in the workforce for 2 or more years) •Be legally entitled to work in Canada •Lack skills required for successful integration into new employment •Be ready and committed to returning to work What will you get?

Participants may be eligible to receive: •Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning •Funding to access training at local educational institutions/training agencies •Income support for in-class training •Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training Next Class begins January 9, 2012

All interested participants please contact our ofce for an intake/informational appointment.

Contact: Carol Niedermayer 1511 Lyon St., Prince George, BC V2N 1T3 Ph: (250) 564-3545 Working Together to Help Keep BC Strong

Sheri Grantham and Reggie share a coffee break during the BCSPCA’s annual fundraiser Paws for a Cause Walk at Cottonwood Park.

Evening of Pink delights again Evening of Pink Memories and Celebrations 2011 featured gifted guest speaker Libby Znaimer, a Canadian journalist and cancer survivor.

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“We are very proud to have Libby come to our event,” said event organizer Monica Peacock.

“She’s just an amazing, accomplished person and she has gone through both breast cancer and pancreatic cancer. Znaimer has worked in TV broadcasting covering business and politics for two decades. Evening of Pink raises money for equipment used at the local hospital in the treatment of cancer.

“Evening of Pink is about mentoring young people so they understand more about cancer and the importance of early detection,” said Peacock.

On Saturday, Sept. 24 dinner guests enjoyed a beautiful dinner, music, silent auction and live entertainment including performances by dancers from Judy Russell’s Enchainement Dance Studio. The dancers also doubled as volunteers for the event. A new highlight in 2011 was the presence of live mannequin models.

“You can walk right up to them and talk to them and they will not move a muscle,” said Peacock. For more information visit www.eveningofpink.com.

■ 2011 in review

9th Annual BC Natural Resource Forum

Free Press file photo

A ‘parked’ Pontiac draws a closer look from a passerby at the Father’s Day Show and Shine event.

Classics cruise into city Souped up or tricked out, antique classic cars have owners and enthusiasts who are much like avid cat fanciers.

They spoil their prized possessions, groom them daily and love to show them off any chance they get. And they got their chance at the 37th annual Crusin’ Classics Show and Shine Prince George June 19 (Father’s Day) sponsored by Northland Chrysler.

Cruisin’ Classics chairman Dwaine Harvey was expecting about 400 cars at Fort George Park and he was close to the mark. Crowds were happy to have a mostly sunny day and people, especially the younger generation, had an opportunity to talk to lots of classic car owners about their latest projects.

Harvey won Best Ford in Show in Vanderhoof the previous weekend for his prized 1932

Ford coupe. His wife, Sandra, went along for the ride.

“It gets a lot of attention whenever we take it out,” she said.

“It’s actually quite comfortable to ride in – although it’s a little noisy when he first starts it up.

Boys and their toys, I guess, but he enjoys it.”

True enough, the “toys” at Cruisin’ Classics included vintage cars of all makes, years, colours and features.

January 11

& 12,

2012

Prince George Civic Centre Hosted by

The Honourable Pat Bell

MLA Prince George - Mackenzie Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation

Featuring

Northern BC Business & Technology Awards and Trade Show Title Sponsor

Lucy gets a warm hug after her helicopter rescue by Ray Marsolais of Pacific Western Helicopters. She was stranded on a sand bar for three days.

Gold Sponsor

VIP Reception

Silver Sponsor

Free Press file photo

Lucy survived some cold times She spent three nights stranded in the cold, waiting for rescue, but after her harrowing experience, Lucy was back home last February, basking in the warmth of her family.

The eight-year-old German Shepherd’s ordeal began Friday afternoon when she somehow fell into the fast-moving Fraser River.

“We didn’t know until noon Saturday where she was,” said owner Karen Kellett. When she didn’t return from a walkabout with neighbour Carol Gass’ dog, the families went out in search.

“We spotted her on a gravel bar in the middle of the river with about 75 meters of open water and a strong current between us,” Kellett said.

The family farm is about 40 km. south of Prince George. All weekend long, they tried to find a way to rescue Lucy that would be safe for her and for humans.

Gass, a Wolf@97 FM morning host, hit the airwaves with the story and Pacific Western Helicopters responded.

“It wasn’t one hour from the time they heard about the problem, called us, made a plan and had Lucy safe at home,” said Gass. “Amazing.

Heroes.”

Indeed, Kellett agrees wholeheartedly that the PWH rescuers Ray Marsolais and Ray Curry saved the day – and their beloved dog.

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A22

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Datebook

www.pgfreepress.com

Free Press accepts Datebook submissions in written form only — dropped off, mailed or e-mailed. No phone calls please.

Free Press Datebook runs as space allows every Wednesday.

No guarantee of publication.

Mail to 1773 South Lyon St., Prince George, B.C. V2N 1T3.

E-mail datebook@pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com

Wednesday Prince George Healing Rooms - Are you hurting?

Do you have health issues? Confidential prayers Wednesday noon-2 p.m, All Nations Church, 1395 Fifth Ave. Information: 250617-9653.

COPD support group meets Wednesday, 1 p.m., AiMHi. Information: Nancy 250-5611393.

Whist, Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Senior Activity Centre, 425 Brunswick St. B.C.Civil Liberties meets every second Wednesday, 6 p.m., Civic Centre. Next meeting Jan. 4.

CNC Retirees meet fourth Wednesday, 9 a.m., D’Lanos.

Information: Lois 250-563-6928.

Army Cadet Rangers free youth program, meets Wednesdays, Connaught Youth Centre. Information: Capt. McCue 250565-6993, 250-5649030.

Thursday DayBreakers Toastmasters meets Thursday, 7-8 a.m., Elder Citizens Recreation

Association,1692 10th Ave. Information: Heather 250-964-9699.

NCP workers and retirees meet third Thursday of the month, 10 a.m., Pine Centre food court.

ECRA Forever Young Chorus meet Thursdays, 12:45 p.m., ECRA, 1692 10th Ave. Chess nights, Thursdays, 6-9 p.m., Books and Company.

Information: Marilyn 250-562-9580.

Prince George Grassroots Cribbage Club registration, 6:30 p.m. play 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Spruce Capital Recreation Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr. Information: Gerda 250-564-8561.

Tai Chi Classes meets Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Knox United Church basement, 1448 Fifth Ave. Info: Lister 250-964-3849.

Old Time Fiddlers jam, Thursday, 7-10 p.m. Elder Citizens Rec Centre, 1692 10th Ave.

Friday Live bands, Friday, 8 p.m.midnight, Royal Canadian Legion.

Saturday

“GIVE A LITTLE… GAIN A LOT!” Caledonia Adaptive Snow Sports Looking for volunteers to teach skiing to persons with a disability.

Email: emacritchie@shaw.ca Call Elizabeth 250-561-1524 College Heights Community Assn Providing community recreation & events in the College Heights area. Volunteers welcome.

Call Cheryl 250-964-2662 Hadih House Looking for volunteers to supervise the Drop-In Centre in VLA area, 4 hrs week. Drop-in services: laundry; access to internet, newspaper, resources; clothing exchange; coffee; play area, etc.) Police record check required. Volunteers needed for special events such as potluck suppers and neighbourhood cleanup.

Call Dawn 250-563-7976 For information on volunteering with more than 100 non-profit organizations in Prince George, contact Volunteer Prince George

250-564-0224 www.volunteerpg.com

New Year’s Eve dance, Dec. 31, Senior Activity Centre, 425 Brunswick St., 8 p.m.

Music by Country Rose. Tickets at office.

New Year’s Eve celebration, Dec. 31, Blackburn Community Centre, 2451 Blackburn Rd. Tickets at centre.

New Year’s Eve dance, Dec. 31, Hart Pioneer Centre, Music by Andy and Dave.

New Year’s Eve multicultural dance, Dec. 31, Artspace, 1685 Third Ave. Dinner 8 p.m., dancing 9:30 p.m.

Information: Colleen or Cynthia 250-5627112.

Live bands, Saturday, 8 p.m.midnight, Royal Canadian Legion.

Sunday Meat draw, Royal Canadian Legion, 3-5 p.m.

Family dinner after draws. Proceeds to Alzheimer and MS societies.

SPIRIT OF THE NORTH

Community Builder

Monday Northern Twister Square Dance Club meets Mondays, 7 p.m., St. Michael’s Church Hall. Information: Gys 250- 563-4828 or Reta 250-9622740.

Royal Purple meets meets second and fourth Mondays, 7:30 p.m.

Information: Dianne 250-596-0125 or Jeanette 250-5639362.

Tuesday Hospital retirees breakfast meeting, first Tuesday of the month, 9 a.m., Prince George Golf Club. Information 250-563-7497 or 250-563-2885.

Sweet Adelines women’s fourpart chorus meets Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m., Studio 2880. New members welcome.

Information: Kathleen 250-5632975.

Support Groups La Leche League breast feeding support group meets the second Thursday of every month 7 p.m. at the Health Unit auditorium.

Information: Tammy 250-612-0085.

PGRH retirees breakfast, first Tuesday of the month, Prince George Golf and Curling Club.

Information: 250563-2885.

Prince George ATV Club meets third Tuesday of month, 7 p.m.

Carmel Restaurant meeting room.

Information: George 250-964-7907.

Prince George Healing Rooms - Are you hurting?

Do you have health issues? Confidential prayers Monday noon-2 p.m. and 7-9 p.m No appointment necessary, located in the Prince George Pentecostal Church, 497 Ospika Blvd.

Community Builder Community Builder

HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

A lla n W ISHA RT/ Fre e Pre s s

Northern Toyota fixed operations manager Willetta Ellington, left, and customer relations manager Sue Moscrip present Donalda Carson of the Prince George Hospice Society with a cheque for $9,015. The money was raised at the second annual Karen Vannevel Golf Tournament.

Proud recognize Proud to toTHOSE recognize those PROUD TO RECOGNIZE WHOthose GIVE whoCOMMUNITY give in our community.

IN OUR 1475 Edmonton Street • 250.565.2515

SPIRIT OF THE NORTH

1475 www.spiritofthenorth.bc.ca Edmonton Street • 250.565.2515 www.spiritofthenorth.bc.ca

1475 Edmonton Street • 250.565.2515 www.spiritofthenorth.bc.ca pgnfc.com.

Elks’ meat draw,

HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION out if this group is

Information: 250617-9653.

Free sports and recreation, Wednesdays, 2 p.m., 1160 7th Ave., ages 15-30. Information: 250-656-5278.

Children’s choir, Thursdays, 6:307:30 p.m., Hartland Baptist Church.

Information: 778415-5000.

Parents Together, a mutual/self-help support group for parents of teens, meets Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Intersect (basement entrance).

Information: Carmen 250-562-6639.

Tuesday night Tops (take off pounds sensibly) 6:157:15 p.m. weigh in, 7:30-8:30 meeting.

Everyone welcome.

Information: Marvene 250-9628001 or 250-6122031.

DivorceCare, a support group for persons going through a separation or divorce. To find

for you, call 250564-6213. Group meets at Artspace, Room 202, Sundays at 5 p.m. Call about childcare.

Hepatitis C support group meets second Tuesday of the month, PGRH fourth floor conference room.

Information: Ilse or Pat 250-565-7387.

Thursday Tops (take off pounds sensibly) 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Knox United Church,1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-564-6336 (days), 250-9644851 (evenings).

Red Hat Chapter meets for lunches and outings.

Information: 250564-6879.

AiMHi is offering networking and information session opportunity for parents, guardians, and caregivers.

Information: Jule O’Reilly 250-5646408 ext. 228.

Thursday, 4:306 p.m., Legion.

Proceeds to Elks’ Children’s Fund.

Tea Time for the Soul. Would you like someone to listen to you? Come, listen, and share while enjoying a cup of tea. Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m. at Forest Expo House, 1506 Ferry Ave. No cost. For more information, Jesse or Catherine at 250563-2551.

Singles and friends, social group of people of all ages and diverse backgrounds, meets Wednesdays, 7 p.m., A&W on 20th Avenue. Information: Donna 250-5620484.

Learning Circle Literacy Program works with adult learners and families on literacy, numeracy and computing skills.

Information: 250564-3568 ext. 228, or e-mail literacy@

Do you worry about the way you eat? Overeaters Anonymous may have the answers.

No weigh-ins, dues or fees. Monday, 7:30 p.m., hospital, Room 421. Call Shelley 250-6123877.

Power Play, for children from newborns to five years old, Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Tuesdays, 1:303:30 p.m., South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle Ave. Information: 250614-9449.

Prince George Stroke Survivors Group meets Wednesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., Elder Citizens Recreation Association, 1692 10th Ave. Information: Julia 250-563-3819, Roland 250-5621747.

The Commonwealth Financial Community Datebook provides free community event listings every Wednesday through a partnership between Commonwealth Financial and the Prince George Free Press. Submissions are accepted in written form only – dropped off, mailed or emailed – No Phone Calls please. Datebook runs as space allows, there is no guarantee of publication. Mail to 1773 South Lyon St., Prince George BC V2N 1T3 E-mail datebook@pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com

Prince George Free Press

Business Directory together B.C. fish farmers and environmental groups.

As a research scientist, Dr. Revie said heading the project has been a bit of a challenge.

Northern Notes HempSolutions

100 Mile House Industrial Hemp Producer’s Group chair Dave Zirnhelt recently provided a project update. The Zirnhelt Timber Frames construction company, founded and owned by his sons, recently finished eight, four- by eight-foot industrial hemp panels.

The local project shares information with the University of Manitoba, and professor Kris Dick recently came out to observe the construction and install sensors to monitor the drying process, Zirnhelt explains. That performance data is now electronically linked to transmit to the university, he adds.

China School

Ray LeMoigne, president of School District 91’s business company recently announced that the company has up to $1.8 million in start-up costs in place. LeMoigne made the announcement during a School District 91 board meeting and said the business company, which was formed in March 2011, can now officially seal the deal to sell B.C. curriculum based initiatives in China. He said the start-up funds were secured as financial loans from Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) and Community Futures of Nadina and provide the company with up to $1.8 million to cover initial costs.

Port donates to Hill

Just in time for Christmas, corporate donations are flowing into the coffers of the My Mountain Cooperative that bought Shames Mountain, which opened for its first season under new management last Friday.

The Prince Rupert Port Authority announced on opening day at the Shames Mountain lodge that it will be donating $50,000 to the non-profit cooperative owning the ski hill.

New GPS system at Vanderhoof airport

The District of Vanderhoof has finally got Nav Canada approval on their GPS system at the Airport. Ty Roberts from CNC Aviation Programs says this is a significant development for the community and the Aviation Business Diploma Program.

“It’s been a very long road to get to this point ... with them [new instrument approaches and departures] now in place the all-weather air access into Vanderhoof for emergency air services, commercial, and private operations has been greatly improved,” said Roberts.

Dating

Williams Lake city council approved a development permit recently for Platform Properties for construction of a three-unit retail building at 700-1185 Prosperity Ridge. The proposed commercial retail building will house three storefronts totaling 24,000 square feet and an additional 116 parking spaces. In October, the company began construction on a 10,000-square-foot building expected to house six or seven tenants.

Moly-Cop in Kamloops

If you’ve never heard of Moly-Cop Canada or have no idea what the Kamloops company does, you probably wouldn’t be alone.

The company converts steel products into balls used exclusively in the mining industry.

With several new mine operations expected to open within the next few years, including New Gold’s New Afton mine next year near Kamloops, Moly-Cop is eyeing an expansion.

Maurice Hindle, sales manager for Moly-Cop Canada, said if the metals market stays strong, the company will expand its operation in the Tournament Capital next year.

Business Bouquets

Event coordinator Cassidi Norum passes out treats from Ohh Chocolat to seniors at the Chocolate Celebration and open house at the Prince George Chateau before Christmas.

Have a Business Bouquet you’d like to send? Call 250-564-0005

Advertise your business here!

A23

New lakecity development

Sea Lice in Salmon

A scientist leading a study into how sea lice infect wild B.C. salmon says he is hopeful that a project co-funded by fish farmers and NGOs can overcome the “your data versus my data” battles that so often cloud the issue.

Dr. Crawford Revie, an epidemiologist at the University of Prince Edward Island, said the Broughton Archipelago Monitoring Plan (BAMP) is the only sea lice study that brings

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Resource Roads

Industry and recreation groups are voicing concerns about how B.C. plans to manage forestry and other resource roads.

More than 450,000 km of gravel resource roads crisscross the province, opening up Crown land to loggers, miners, BC Hydro and others.

The same roads provide access routes to some remote First Nations and to the backcountry areas that B.C. hunters, hikers and other recreation groups like to get out and enjoy.

Currently, B.C. has 11 different laws and several agencies to manage its resource roads – a costly and sometimes confusing system that the B.C. Liberal government has promised to simplify with a new Natural Resource Roads Act.

Land Surveyor

Sewing

Your community. Your classieds.

250.564.0005 fax 250.562-0025 email classieds@pgfreepress.com Announcements

Employment

Personals

Career Opportunities

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Employment Business Opportunities ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

to Every Hunter in BC! Advertise in The BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis 2012-2014 publication.

Increased circulation 250,000 copies! Tremendous Reach, Two Year Edition!

Contact Annemarie at 1 800 661 6335 or hunt@blackpress.ca FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY Attend our free franchise seminar to learn how you can lead the Pizza revolution with Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza.

In Prince George on January 24th from 7:00 to 8:30PM. At the Sandman Signature Hotel, space is limited. To register email franchise@papamurphys.ca or call 1-800-2577272.

4 OUT OF 5 PEOPLE WITH DIABETES DIE OF HEART DISEASE. Better your odds.

Visit getserious.ca

Maintenance Supervisor / Planner

TOLKO INDUSTRIES LTD. Is currently seeking a Maintenance Supervisor / Planner to join our team in ARMSTRONG, BC. Tolko is a forest products company with marketing, resource management and manufacturing operations throughout Western Canada. We are an equal opportunity employer offering excellent pension and flex benefit programs.

The Maintenance Planner is responsible for the planning and optimization of all maintenance assets including the full utilization of a computerized maintenance management system. The focus of the position is safety, quality, production and continuous uptime opportunities.

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Administration

Early Childhood Educator

Administration

A step in the right direction!

Teeter Tots Early Learning Centre located in College Heights is seeking a full time Early Childhood Educator to join our team.

The successful candidate must have an ECE License, Food Safe, First Aid and a clear Criminal Record.

Please fax or email resume to (250)964-2788 or fun@teetertots.ca

Celebrations

Administration

Celebrations

Time to Celebrate!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Tolko offers: · Competitive salary · A company that believes in a sustainable environment · Development opportunities · Wellness Program · Dynamic and challenging environment · Stable employment Strong values of Safety, Respect, Progressiveness, Open Communication, Integrity and Profit guide us at Tolko.

QUALIFICATIONS: · Five years’ experience working in a production / industrial environment.

Three years supervisory related work experience in a production/industrial environment · Experience in the use of computerized maintenance systems, preferably JD Edwards. Sound understanding of preventive and predictive maintenance practices. · Major maintenance outage /turn-around planning experience. · Good understanding of forestry industry operations and equipment is an asset.

READY TO APPLY YOURSELF? If you are interested in exploring this opportunity and being part of our community please visit our website at: www.tolko.com and submit your resume by January 13, 2012 or Fax: 250-546-2240

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Become a Psychiatric Nurse - train locally via distance education, local and/or regional clinical placements and some regional classroom delivery.

Wages start at $30.79/hr to $40.42/hr. This 23 month program is recognized by the CRPNBC. Gov’t funding may be available.

Toll-free 1-87-STENBERG www.stenbergcollege.com

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Information

H oc ke y

Education/Trade Schools

Career Opportunities

RULES & REGULATIONS: • Enter the game number and the name of the team you think will win on the line corresponding to the number of points you want to weight that pick.

• You cannot use a game more than once.

• Limit of 3 entries per household per week.

• Decisions of the Judges are Final. Prizes must be accepted as awarded.

• Individual may only win once every 4 weeks • Prize is transferable.

• Prize has no cash value and must be accepted as awarded.

• Prize may not be combined with any other offer or special • Prizes have expiry dates please read certificates Bring your entries to the Prince George Free Press, 1773 South Lyon Street

Senior Advertising Sales Consultant Make a difference in Prince George by joining the Free Press team; the number one community newspaper in Prince George.

The Free Press has an opening for the position of Senior Advertising Sales Consultant.

We are seeking a “team player” with organizational skills, sales experience, pleasant telephone skills, experience in creating written proposals and an ability and desire to work and learn in a fast paced, busy environment.

The ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative to sell multiple media products, including on-line advertising and special products, work with existing customers and find ways to grow sales and income. Strong interpersonal skills and a strong knowledge of sales and marketing are required. Above average communication skills, valid driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle are necessary.

The benefits and opportunities of working for the leading newspaper in Prince George are why we attract and employ the best. If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today.

Please submit your resume and cover letter to the attention of: Phil Beaulieu, Publisher Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, BC V2N 1T3 publisher@pgfreepress.com

Employment

Employment

Help Wanted

Trades, Technical

Alberta earthmoving company requires a Journeyman Heavy Duty Mechanic. You will work in a modern shop and also have mechanics truck for field work. The job is at Edson, Alberta. We require that you have experience on Cat crawlers and or Deere excavators.

Call Lloyd at (780)723-5051.

Journeyman Electrician.

Horizon Climate Controls, an HVAC & Electrical contracting company in Williams Lake has an immediate opening for a journeyman electrician.

Horizon Climate Controls is a progressive, community oriented company offering competitive wages & benefit package.

Williams Lake is located in the Central Interior of BC & offers numerous opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter who works well in a team environment with experience in a variety of electrical work from residential to light industrial.

Email resumes to: horizon climatecontrols@shawbiz.ca or fax to (250) 398-9099.

HHDI RECRUITING

is hiring on behalf of Baker Hughes Baker Hughes Alberta -

based oilfield services company is currently hiring;

EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Class 1 or 3 License required.

Drivers

HD MECHANICS

Services

Financial Services

3rd or 4th apprentice or Journeyman Heavy Duty Mechanics with their Red Seal and CVIP License to work in Red Deer & Hinton.

Please call 250-718-3330 or Fax: 1-888-679-0759 For more information or send your resume & current drivers abstract to: driverclass1@shaw.ca

Immediate Income with Tax Deduction Benefits!

Call Tom Unger at Vision Investment Properties 250-981-6440

Ofce Support PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANT, PRINCE GEORGE Geotech Drilling Services is a team focused on continually implementing the most technologically advanced drilling techniques to increase the efficiency and the accuracy of field data collection. We specialize in geotechnical, geothermal, environmental, hydrogeological and exploration drilling services. We employ professional, energetic, solution minded individuals that endeavour to consistently exceed our clients’ expectations.

We also feature state of the art equipment to facilitate exemplary quality control. The Professional Assistant possesses an energizing spirit with motivation to deliver superior time management and organizational skill while keeping an open mind to all contingencies of the position. Responsibilities will include: - Superior customer service, answer switchboard and route calls as appropriate.

Filing for Shipper Receiver/ Purchaser. Compiling information for Work Orders for Shop, Fleet and Yard personnel, and maintain fleet insurance and MVI paperwork for Fleet. - Responsibility for time clock, data entry, and matching purchase orders to invoices. - Assistance to Human Resources with resume tracking and job postings.

Photocopying, scanning, and faxing as needed. - Perform other tasks and projects as required. Qualifications: - 1+ years’ experience in a professional office environment or a combination of schooling (i.e., Office Administration Certificate) and experience - Excellent verbal, written communication skills - Excellent use of Microsoft Outlook, MS Word and Excel - Possess excellent customer service; open to change; and a positive outlook Qualified candidates are encouraged to forward their resume to the Human Resource Department: careers@geotechdrilling.com by Thursday, January 5, 2012 No phone calls please. We thank all that apply; however, only short listed candidates will be contacted

Home Improvements G Gilbert Renovation Year round reno needs. Int/ext, nothing too small. 30 yrs exp.

Free estimates! Call Gaetan (250) 560-5845 or 552-7184

Landscaping FALL YARD CLEAN-UP Garbage Removal & Gutter Cleaning Power Raking ~ Aerating (250)961-3612 or (250)964-4758 res

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Rentals

Misc. for Sale

Apt/Condo for Rent

AFFORDABLE last minute gifts Tax free. Jewelry, woodcraft, clothes, bakery, antiques & more. Butler’s Place Mini-mall 1156 4th Ave. Open Tue-Fri 11am - 4pm, Sat 9am - 4pm Closed Mondays. Draw for 10k gold heart necklace.

JUBILEE Apt’s 1 bedroom Adult orientated, close to downtown & bus route. N/S, N/P. Parking.

Call: (250) 562-7172

Parklane Garden Apartments

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent

BELVEDERE MANOR

461 N. Ospika Blvd.

Solid Brick & Conc. Bldg.

Enjoy Quiet & Safe Living.

Adult Oriented 2 & 3 bdrm.

Available.

Large Balcony & Patio’s Incl. Cbl, Heat, Lrg. Stor Fr/St/DW - N/S N/P Call Resident Mgr.

1260 Ahbau Street

www.parklanegarden.com

1 BR Suite

250-563-5571 Midtowne • 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available • Close to hospital & downtown • Rent includes heat, hot water • Elevator to undercover parking • Fridge, stove, quality carpets, drapes • Laundry on each floor • No pets

1 1/2 - 2 bdrm apts.

Safe, clean & quiet. Receive your 12th month rent free (conditions apply) 250-613-7483 Darby Apts.

Briarwood Apts.

1330/80 Foothills Blvd. 1 & 2 Bdrm suites 250-561-1571

Pets BOUVIER PUPS, home raised, loyal & loving. var. colors $800. Call 250-486-6773. sm.white@shaw.ca

Merchandise for Sale

Free Items

Free Pallets No pick up until after 6:00 pm Back Door

Free Press

1773 S. Lyon Street Phone (250)564-0005

Heavy Duty Machinery A-STEEL SHIPPING STORAGE CONTAINERS / Bridges 20’40’45’53’ Used / Damaged 40’ insulated makes great shop. Only $2300! Needs door and 40’HC $2800 No Rust!

Semi Trailers for Hiway & storage. Delivery BC and AB Call 24 hrs 1-866-528-7108 www.rtccontainer.com

Apt/Condo for Rent

Misc for Rent

Scrap Car Removal

VENICE PLACE APTS 1438 Queensway Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm Suites Balcony, Elevator, Underground parking. Heat included Call (250)561-1446

1, 2, & 3 bdrm suites for rent, reasonably priced. Heat & Hydro incl. Ph (250) 552-1178

SCRAP BATTERIES WANTED We buy scrap batteries from cars & trucks & heavy equipment. $4.00 each. Free pick-up anywhere in BC, Minimum 10.

Call Toll Free 1.877.334.2288

Victoria Towers Available immediately Bachelor 1 & 2 bdrm suites

Suites, Lower

1/2 m free move in bonus

1 bdrm suite for rent. Includes utilities $550/mo close to Costco. 1 person, NP, NS Phone (250)596-5962

Majestic Management (1981) Ltd. CE • OFFI ERCIAL M • COM IL • RETA

SUMMIT APTS 2666 Upland Street

Space available for rent For all your rental needs Call 562-8343 or 562-RENT

1 & 2 bedroom apts. Rent includes: hydro, heat, hot water, appliances, drapes and parking. Quiet, no pets

250-564-3162

Duplex / 4 Plex

West Austin Apartments 2 bdrm located on Hart Hwy. 778-415-0010

2 bdrm upstairs, 1/2 duplex, WD, 2315 Royal Cres, $850/mo + util. (250)961-7527

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Carriage Lane Estates

PART TIME / ON CALL WORK

2 & 3 BDRM TOWNHOUSES Close to CNC and shopping

available in the Prince George Free Press mailroom.

(250)563-3093

HILLSBOROUGH Apts 3820 - 15th Ave

Mostly nights. Drop off resume, Attn: Deb at 1773 South Lyon Street or Fax to 250-562-0025.

PINE GROVE Apts

412- 420 Voyager Dr (off 5th Ave) Spacious 1, 2 & 3 bdrm apts Clean, quiet, secure entrance.

Students Welcome. Rental Incentives. No Dogs

Phone 250-563-2221

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

Reaching over 62,000 Readers every issue!

• Cars • Trucks • Trailers N • Boats • ATV’s RUSOLD •• RV’s Snowmobiles • Motorcycles L TIL Only

LE P SAM

2001 Grand Am, low kms, Great Price. Call Today 555555-5555 after 4 pm

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Homes for Rent 5 bedroom, 2 full baths, 6 appl.,beside elem school, close to mall. NP please. For info call 250-960-1177

Commercial/ Industrial

Pine Glen Apartments 255 N. Ospika (Rental Office) Spacious clean 2 & 3 bdrm 1 1/2 bath Heat, Hot water & Parking incl.

Laundry & Play ground on Site.

Ask about our new rates Bus route to all amenities 250-561-1823

HARDWOOD MANOR APTS 1575 Queensway Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm suites Hardwood floors. Heat incl.

250-596-9484

Pets & Livestock

Transportation

250-552-5525

250-561-2236

To Rent Call:

250-561-1447

Rentals

$7200 $48 3 lines of text 3 lines of text w/pic 00

If your item does not sell after 8 weeks, call and we will rebook your ad for free • Some restrictions apply • Private sales only

(250) 564-0005 classiÀeds2@pgfreepress.com

SCRAP CAR REMOVAL MOST FREE! Give Us A Call!

250.963.3435 15270 Hwy 97 South

Townhouses FURNISHED Condo Tabor Area Available January 1st, 2012 2 Bedrooms & an Office Leather Furniture, New Appliances, Hardwood Flrs., 2 Parking Spots Nicely Decorated 1,200.00 a month plus utilities References Required Contact: 250981-8472

Transportation

Off Road Vehicles

1-800-222-TIPS

Wrecker/Used Parts USED TIRES Cars & Trucks $25 & up

Most Sizes Available

1999 Ford F250 Short box extended cab beige $6000 OBO 250-552-9880 or 250-564 6775

15270 Hwy 97 South 250.963.3435

www.pgfreepress.com

Run Till Rented “Read All About It” Prince George Free Press Run till Rented gives you endless possibilities. . .

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Reaching over 62,000 readers every issue 250-564-0005 classads@pgfreepress.com

X CROSSWORD ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 557

A26

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Prince George Free Press

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

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Appetizers

Drunken Tequila Prawns Sterling Silver Beef & Gouda Crostinis Chicken Fingers with 16 Spices

Entrees

Sterling Silver 6oz Sirloin & King Crab Surf N’ Turf King Crab & Lobster Dinner Chicken Cognac Seafood Deluxe Marsala Mushroom Filet Mignon New Years Bash ~ 8pm-close Featuring Hell Toupe, cover is free & Special Guest Appearance by Halawa of the Zahirah Dance Studio New Years Black Tie paired with‌ Bright colours, Feathers, Masquerade Masks Please call for more info or to make reservations.

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Prince George Free Press

People of Prince George

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

A27

Brought to you by

Hub City Motors DL#5365

lsh en Storozinski, Ann Wa h Margaret Keibel, EIle wit rt. ng nce alo Co , s ma ruh Un rist Ch bin ily Ro Fam the ukulele at ECRA’s A and Janice Taylor, play tral piano at the North Cen Bruce Strachan plays ay.

Frid t las t ffe bu s ma Seniors Christ Alya Carifelle,7, adds more colour to her dec orated cookie Saturday at Ga teway Christian Minis tries’ Great Toy Giveaway.

Pic of the Week

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2012 Jetta

The All-New 2012 Passat

Lease from only

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick 2012 Passat

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by Nadine Jane Doe. Jane wins a $25.00 $25.00 McDonald’s Gift for providing McDonald’s Gift Pack forPack providing the Pic the Pic of the Week. chance to win, email of the Week.

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FIRST MONTH’S PAYMENT

$189 3.9%

Lease from only per month for 48 months

APR** Or purchase from only $17,240*

$299 4.9%

per month for 48 months

APR**

Or purchase from only $25,340*

Hub City Motors & Equipment 1822 Queensway Street, Prince George Dealer564-7228 Name (250) 1-888-300-6013 Dealer Address – (XXX) XXX-XXXX www.hubcitymotors.com DL#5365

vw.ca

*Base MSRP of a new and unregistered 2012 Jetta 2.0L / 2012 Passat 2.5L base model with 5-speed/5-speed manual transmission is $17,240/$25,340 including $1,365/$1,365 freight and PDI. License, LQVXUDQFH UHJLVWUDWLRQ DQ\ GHDOHU RU RWKHU FKDUJHV RSWLRQV DQG RWKHU DSSOLFDEOH WD[HV DUH H[WUD 'HDOHU PD\ VHOO IRU OHVV 'HDOHU RUGHU WUDGH PD\ EH QHFHVVDU\ /LPLWHG WLPH OHDVH RȔ HU DYDLODEOH WKURXJK 9RONVZDJHQ )LQDQFH RQ DSSURYHG FUHGLW EDVHG RQ D QHZ DQG XQUHJLVWHUHG -HWWD / 3DVVDW / EDVH PRGHO ZLWK VSHHG VSHHG PDQXDO WUDQVPLVVLRQ IUHLJKW DQG 3', LQFOXGHG LQ PRQWKO\ SD\PHQW PRQWK WHUP DW $35 GRZQ SD\PHQW RU HTXLYDOHQW WUDGH LQ VHFXULW\ GHSRVLW DQG ȕ UVW PRQWKO\ SD\PHQW GXH DW OHDVH LQFHSWLRQ 7RWDO OHDVH obligation: $9,498/$16,210. 64,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.15/km for excess kilometres. PPSA, license, insurance, registration, any dealer or other charges, options and other applicable taxes are extra. †)LUVW PRQWKO\ SD\PHQW RI DYDLODEOH RQ D PRQWK OHDVH WKURXJK 9RONVZDJHQ )LQDQFH RQ DSSURYHG FUHGLW RI VHOHFW QHZ DQG XQUHJLVWHUHG -HWWD 3DVVDW PRGHOV 7', &OHDQ 'LHVHO PRGHOV H[FOXGHG XS WR D PD[LPXP RI H[FOXGLQJ WD[HV 'HDOHU PD\ OHDVH IRU OHVV 'HDOHU RUGHU WUDGH PD\ EH QHFHVVDU\ 2Ȕ HUV HQG 'HFHPEHU DQG DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH RU FDQFHOODWLRQ ZLWKRXW QRWLFH 9LVLW YZ FD RU \RXU 9RONVZDJHQ GHDOHU IRU GHWDLOV 0RGHOV VKRZQ IRU LOOXVWUDWLRQ SXUSRVHV RQO\ 9HKLFOHV PD\ QRW EH H[DFWO\ DV VKRZQ ǔ9RONVZDJHQǕ WKH 9RONVZDJHQ ORJR ǔ-HWWDǕ ǔ3DVVDWǕ DQG ǔ$XWREDKQ IRU $OOǕ DUH UHJLVWHUHG WUDGHPDUNV RI 9RONVZDJHQ $* k 9RONVZDJHQ &DQDGD

A28

www.pgfreepress.com

Prince George Free Press

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

#1 VOLUME IN CANADA!

HASSLE FREE BUYING!

#1 IN BC!

5 YEARS SOME

NEW TRUCKS

UP TO

50

%

OFF

EMPLOYEE PRICING NEW !

2012 RAM QUAD CAB

Stk# 12Q11511

$15,632!

TOTAL PRICE

1995 - 20th Avenue, Prince George, BC (250) 562-5254

1-866-924-4725

DISCLAIMER: All prices and payments plus taxes and fees ON APPROVED CREDIT. Prices above include $589 Administrative Fee which is mandatory on purchase of New and Used vehicles. Lowest cash prices and payments using all dealership incentives. Factory Incentives subject to change as new Chrysler Retail Incentive Programs are announced. See Dealer for details.

D#30541

250-564-6663 SMAR SAVIN T GS

YE AR

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NT

56$40/

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STK 12TU8990

7&3"$36;

108&3'6- "/% &''*$*&/5 o 5)& 536& %&'*/*5*0/ 0' " $3044 07&3 WITH

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TOTAL PRICE $35,990 t 41"$*064 614$"-& */5&3*03 8*5) 5)*3% 308 '0-% '-"5 4&"5*/( t 45"/%"3% "*3#"(4 t - 7 &/(*/& t 41&&% "650."5*$ 53"/4.*44*0/ t #-6&5005)ÂŽ )"/%4 '3&& 1)0/& 4:45&. t "7"*-"#-& "8%

TOTAL PRICE $25,759 5-year/100,000 km Comprehensive Limited Warranty 5-year/100,000 km Powertrain Warranty 5-year/100,000 km Emission Warranty

Limited model shown

STK 125F7023

HyundaiCanada.com

GLS model shown

STK 11UC8701

northland-hyundai.ca 2021 Hwy 16 - Entrance to the Gateway • Toll Free 1-866-564-6663

DISCLAIMER: All prices and payments plus taxes and fees ON APPROVED CREDIT. Prices above include $589 Administrative Fee which is mandatory on purchase of New and Used vehicles. Lowest cash prices and payments using all dealership incentives. All Vehicles available at time of Printing.

Vehicles may not be exactly as shown. File photos used on some vehicles when required. Factory incentives subject to change as new Hyundai Retail Incentive Programs are announced. See Dealer for details.

DL# 30540

250-561-8794

Toll Free 1-866-920-4058