Outlook 2012

PRINCE GEORGE in the NEW NORTH

Prince George

2012

OUTLOOK

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

PRINCE GEORGE in the NEW NORTH

Prince George

2012

OUTLOOK

Design by Lorraine SCOTT/Free Press

Prince George is at the centre of the New North in British Columbia.

There are plenty of pieces to the puzzle and they all involve people and Prince George. As we fit the people we need into the New North, we will grow and prosper. Welcome to Outlook 2012, where we tell the stories of some of the people that make Prince George a fit for us all.

RIGHT NOW GET

TOTAL PRICE:

0

0

%AND$

FINANCING FOR 84 MONTHS

DOWN PAYMENT

klly Weekl i-W Bi-Weekly B

40 0

C

/LL

0% 84 FINANCING FOR UP TO

“Car of the Year!”

BONUS SAVE E

What’s Inside

DOUBLE SAVINGS EVENT

Veracruz $199 $29,990

1

Mayor Shari Green 2 MLAs Pat Bell/Shirley Bond 2 2015 Canada Winter Games 3 CNC Builds for the Future 6 New Look for IPG 7 Engineering Changes at UNBC 9 MP Bob Zimmer 10 Wood Innovation and Resource Centre10 Aboriginal Business Match 11 Mining the Museum for Goodies 12 Aboriginal Business Development Corp. 13 Chamber Passes Century Mark 15 What’s on at the Playhouse 16 Northern Timberwolves on Big Stage 17 PGX Readies for Centennial 20 CN Centre Puts on the Shows 21 Cancer Centre Set to Open 22 Kordyban Lodge Getting Ready 23 Cougars look to Youth for the Future 25 Barkerville Hits a Buck and a Half 27 Russell Dances Up a Storm 28 New Cop Shop Coming 29 E. Fry Facility Helps Seniors 30 Bishop Set to Retire 31 Excalibur Sharpens Dance Skills 33 Theatre North West in Growth Stage 34 Spruce Kings ready for the Mainland 35 A Good Place for Books and Company 36

2012

Stk# 12VC8701

March 2012

7 YEAR

120,000 KM

UNTIL 2013’ 13’

BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE! 1-866-564-6663

northland-hyundai.ca

D#30540

Stk# 12EL0098

TOTAL PRICE:

$17,888

MONTHS

2012 Elantra

$108 Weeklly i-W Bi-Weekly B

1-866-564-6663

All prices & payments net of taxes, fees and insurance. 1)2012 Hyundai Accent stk# 12AC9492 $98 biweekly for 84 months @ 2.99%, total interest paid $1512.00. 2)2012 Hyundai Elantra stk# 12EL0098 $108 biweekly for 84 months @ 1.9%, total interest paid $1260.00. All trademarks owned by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. The Hyundai names, logos, product names, feature names, images and slogans are trademarks owned by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp., and are used under licence.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

2 March 2012

Green has positive view for city DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

The outlook for the upcoming year is a positive one in the view of the city’s new mayor, Shari Green.

“From a city perspective I think there’s a real sense of movement within the community,” she said.

“We are positioned in the right place at the right time.”

She said people are beginning to show their pride in the city and share all that is positive about the people and business who thrive in Prince George.

“I’m seeing a real sense of people feeling it’s time to change things.

We are feeling proud of Prince George and we’re ready to embrace this community and do what we can to tell the world about this city.

We’re tired of the negative things that have been said. We’re tired of having to feel a sense of apology when we say we are from Prince George.”

Positive things about the city include a ton of amenities, a smalltown feel and fabulous foods and restaurants, Green said.

“A sense of safety has been

restored to the downtown area and there has been a lot of investment there,” she said. “The pulp mill is thriving and doing well. There is trades training and employment opportunities.”

And the city is looking forward to hosting the Canada Winter Games.

“There is a lot of momentum growing

with that,” she said.

Test events for different sports continue to happen, and Green said people are likely to see those increase as the games grow nearer.

She added hosting the games has allowed the city to renovate the Kin 1 Centre, and Green said the finished product will be excellent.

Shari Green - Mayor In terms of city business, she added city hall

MLAs focus on economy DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

Economically the next year in Prince George is going to be a positive one, according to area MLAs Pat Bell and Shirley Bond.

“I think we’re in for a very positive economic run,” Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, said.

“I think we are certainly poised to see a robust economic future for

2 GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

!

~ Oil Change Packages ~ Transmission Flushes ~ Drive-Line Services

PRINCE GEORGE’S ONLY BCAA APPROVED DRIVE THROUGH OIL CHANGE Great Canadian & TOUCHLESS CAR WASH

Look for our Shiny Glass Buildings 15th & Central 250-563-0762 AND 3444 Austin Rd. E. 250-962-9023 Warranty Approved

is working hard.

“The core review is underway and we will get our services aligned.”

She said the select committee on business not only had suggestions for council, but several success stories revealing what is being done right at city hall.

“Attracting new families and businesses to the city is key to council,” she added.

That means making sure everyone is pulling in the same direction, she said.

No appointment necessary

He said several other privately B.C,” said Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General for the prov- funded projects are also moving forward though he can’t give any ince. specific details on them at the Bell said city residents will see moment. a lot of jobs continue Of course, all of these to open in heavy-duty projects mean keepconstruction as the LNG ing an eye on skill and pipeline project begins trades training, Bond and mining projects in said.

Tumbler Ridge, Mt. Mil“We need to pay speligan and Endako concial attention to skilled tinue. In fact Endako, trades training,” she Bond said, recently said. “We need proopened 160 new posigrams that meet the tions. needs of northern B.C.” All northern projects Pat Bell Building on the great add to the prosperity of - P.G.-Mackenzie programs offered by locals, Bell said, though CNC and UNBC will some may not see the help meet projected shortages, she direct link. But he pointed out the said. city is a service centre for these She added she has been briefed outlying areas, and many local on the proposed trades traincompanies are benefiting directly. ing facility to be set up at the old For example, in Kitimat with the Rustad’s sawmill site.

Alcan expansion, local company She was encouraged by the partLDL is doing a lot of the work. nerships being formed And as the need for to make that centre a natural resources grows, reality, she said, as well the province will prosas the focus on workper. ing with the university “I think there are and college and the unprecedented opportusolid foundation laid nities to look at natural by those institutions. resource extraction in Bond is also proud of the north,” Bond said, the brand new cancer adding the way forward centre to open this year would include safe enviin Prince George. ronmental practices.

Shirley Bond Many years in the “We will see unem- P.G.-Valemount making, the cancer ployment drop and centre will attract new incomes raise as people health care professionmove into higher paying als to the area and create opporpositions,” Bell said. tunities for cancer research in the Other factors, Bell added, also north. come into consideration, like the “I think the opportunities are rise in lumber prices, albeit slowly. very positive. I’m expecting a good He said this often leads to another year. At the end of 2012 I think shift added at local mills, which in people are going to look back and turn positively affects sectors like say that was a good year,” Bell said. the service industry.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

3

Canada Winter Games clock ticking ALISTAIR MCINNIS sports@pgfreepress.com

They’re approaching the 1,000-day countdown.

In just under three years, the 2015 Canada Winter Games will be staged in Prince George.

To some people, it appears like a long wait. But with every passing day, we’re reminded how much closer we are to what may be the biggest event in the region’s history.

Having known since September 2010 it’d be hosting the Games, Prince George is well into preparations.

With the multi-sports event held once every four years, a contingent from Prince George attended the latest Winter Games, in February 2011 in Halifax, N.S., on an information-gathering mission.

Another crucial point along the way was reached last August when Stuart Ballantyne was named the CEO of the Games. What followed was the naming

Games, everything is on of more individuals to the the front burner,” Ballantsenior management team: yne said. “We don’t really Phil Beaulieu as the direcget a backburner project tor of sport and venues; for a while.”

Lisa Shaw-MacLaren as Ballantyne the manager of noted that their sport and venue budget for facilpreparation; ity upgrades is Todd Doherty $18.5 million. as the direcThe majority tor of revenue of those funds generation; are being put Leanne Wall towards the Kin as the direcCentre enhancetor of finance ment project. and controller; Other upgrades and Mike Davis Stuart Ballantyne include as director of - Winter Games CEO improvements to marketing and the ski facilities communicain the region, the Otway tions.

Nordic Centre and OutWhen Ballantyne was door Ice Oval. introduced as CEO, dates The largest projof the event were also ect among the facility announced. The Games upgrades, the Kin Cenwill be held from Feb. 12 tre project begins with to March 1, 2015. Prince renovations this spring.

George and the region is The plan is highlighted expected to play host to by a Kin 1 reconstruction 3,600 athletes, 6,000 volunteers, 1,300 officials, media, which would see the ice surface increased to the medical professionals and Olympic standard (200’ X thousands of visitors.

100’) from its current non“At this stage of the

conforming size (185’ X 85’). The plan calls for a ice surface widening by using a composite wood timber structure. Improvements to Kin 2, the dressing rooms, washrooms and a new roof for Kin 1 are part of the project.

To move into his new position, Ballantyne relocated north from the Lower Mainland, where he was heavily involved in sports event management. Among other major events, he was project director for the Molson Canadian Hockey House during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

“Working in an Olympic environment was fun. A lot of rules,” Ballantyne said of his duties in 2010. “More rules than you normally get, but it worked out alright, and it really helped that the men’s and the women’s teams won the gold medal. It’s pretty hard to go wrong.”

As part of preparations for 2015, members of the Games management team

have also been holding meetings and attending events to raise awareness.

They were on hand at the start line at Otway for the Prince George Iceman on Feb. 12, entered a team in the Bowl for Kids Sake on March 4 at the Strike Zone, and have a group registered for this year’s Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life May 12 and 13 at Masich Place Stadium.

The Canada Winter Games team is planning to start a volunteer kick-off drive on April 14.

“You’d love to have it all go, but the build-up is what makes (the Games) so special when it happens because 18 days is a long time to work straight without having it. There’s no day off,” Ballantyne said.

“We’ll finish late in the day and we’ll start early in the morning, but it’s that build up of the three years prior that makes it all worthwhile.”

For more on the Games, visit canadagames2015.ca.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

4 March 2012

Another Great Year...

At Commonwealth, we are bullish about the north. While many financial services firms have chosen to be headquartered outside the north, we proudly embrace the northern lifestyle. Like most northerners, we believe in the three-C’s: Character, Commitment & Community. To be successful you have to demonstrate a passion for all three. At Commonwealth, we are proud to support a number of worthwhile northern causes. In fact, in relative terms, we are one of the largest corporate donors in Prince George. As we celebrate our 17th anniversary, we can reflect on our short history with pride.

Perhaps even more importantly, we can look to the future with even greater hope and optimism.

Thanks Prince George, you’re the greatest!

D.R. McLaren, President Happy team at the Commonw ealth Cup!

udly supports Commonwealth Financial pro C Pee Wee Hockey.

COMMONWEALTH FINANCIAL Mortgages • Investments • Insurance

Prince George

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

at Commonwealth Proudly Supporting:

GE CHALLEN ASEBatAtheLwoLrld is coming9to.250-613-7492 B D L R O wh W ... it’s da, V2N 4V The WBC B.C., Cana ll.ca 3836 Grace

September

e George, Cres., Princ t all@telus.ne worldbaseb

dbaseba

www.worl

29, 2011

Laren Dr. Dan Mc h Financial alt Commonwe

Baseball the World team behind py to write to you, leading the hap ble part of er I am so oya lett a enj is st s mo t – and thi One of the have de for suppor y start, and ers of gratitu from the ver is writing lett it with your staff. tributions, tive of this Challenge re and suppor nt. Your con sing the level of n on-board munity eve you will sha rai e h bee com e hop wit I p jor hav and s ma You to hel er you e so much utions to thi ngs, wheth your contrib nce George, have don r to me on many thi od out for iso Pri valued adv d by us all. deÀnitely sto unabashed pride for asure r y trusted and y is greatly appreciate been an absolute ple nit including you you have been a ver it’s for mu but com nt, ank rs. Th s Dan, p in the is sufÀcie this event. r leadershi past few yea doubt that nce not, and you ain, Dan, thanks... I family these s is to baseball in Pri r you w know it or kno Ag Cuba, portant thi n getting to teams like ding how im es, seeing as it has bee for understan you enjoyed the gam h you, just working wit on to the tournament, the best!

I hope .

All ole ll. wh eba uti bas your contrib the community on the high-calibre to watch the you could George, and etc. – Glad Japan, USA, , committee ire ent our alf of and on beh Sincerely,

Dan,

on, Chair Jim Swans all Challenge World Baseb Citizen Field e Prince Georg

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Commonwealth Financial Hockey Club PG Community Foundation Junior Achievement of BC Children’s Variety Club Alzheimer Society of BC PG Rotary Auction Canuck Place Canadian Legion Poppy Fund Mardi Gras Snow Daze PGSS Senior Volleyball Healthier U Awards Festival of Trees World Baseball Tournament College of New Caledonia Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation • PG Youth Soccer Association • Ringette • JCI Prince George

A heartfelt thank you to: • Commonwealth Mortgage ference Together, we make a dif

Edd Hatoum is being cheered on while he swings the Eddie club attempting to land the ball in a target at the 7th clu Annual VIP BBQ at Cluculz Lake. Moneys raised go An to ccharities from across Northern British Columbia.

Vancouver Canucks Alumni Garry Monahan , Eddie Hatoum & Dennis Kearns enjoying the Commonwealth Cup. The Commonwealth Cup has raised over $250,000!

J U S T A N O T E

250-960-2233 THE COMMONWEALTH BUILDING - 1448 - 6TH AVENUE

www.mycommonwealth.ca www.commonwealthcup.ca www.commonwealthhealth.ca

5

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

6 March 2012

CNC builds on past for future ALLAN WISHART

an opportunity for the school to branch out and offer a level of service which it John Bowman is pleased with the couldn’t before. past and positive about the future.

“The provincial “We’re in a very good place,” says government’s BC the College of New Caledonia president. “We finalized our five-year stra- Jobs Plan is designed to enable economic tegic plan last year, and I’m positive activity in northern about the progress we’ve made in B.C.,” Bowman says, the first year.”

The strategic plan sets out six main “and much of that will be in natural priorities and 18 goals for the school resources. There is to meet over the five years. going to be a lot of “After being president for almost new development seven years,” Bowman says, “I now taking place. can look at things in a historical “Where will the context and see how we’ve moved people come from to ahead.” fill those jobs? People He says the school is maintaining are looking to us to its long-term focus on meeting the prepare workers for needs of the labour market. those jobs. Our role “Expansion of our trades and Photo submitteds in community and technology courses is a big priority, CNC students have been making use of the research forest as an outdoor laboraand that will continue in the foresee- economic development will be central.” tory, and that will increase with a greater focus on applied research. able future. We are also looking to While CNC is concontinue our partnerships with other The school is also looking at ways we’re working with UNBC on tinuing to develop new trades propost-secondary institutions in offerto support its outlying campuses. our program laddering into their grams, it is branching out into other ing courses together, such as BCIT Top of the list currently is Burns diploma program.” areas as well. and Northern Lights College.”

Lake, after the mill fire and exploThe school is also starting to pur“We are working on a civil engiHe sees the proposed development sion which killed two people and sue its own research areas. neering technology program, and of the former Canfor Rustad mill as destroyed the mill.

“We received a grant earlier this “These are definitely trying times year from the Natural Sciences and for Burns Lake. We are responding Engineering Research Council of Canada for our first applied-research to the need for additional training opportunities, whether the mill is project. It will be a two-year project rebuilt or not.” on climate change and how that The Nechako Valley campus in Vanwill affect tree species in the Prince derhoof is also being looked at, with George region.”

The project will probably make use the possibility of a new facility being constructed. of the research forest CNC received “For whatever reason, Vanderhoof as a grant from the government in is probably the least-served on the 2008. The school has a partnership with Dunkley Forest Products to har- outlying campuses. It may be that it’s vest the timber, which has resulted in easier for students there to come in for classes in Prince George, but we about $1 million in income over five are looking at making their facility years. better.”

“A lot of that money goes to supThe provincial government has set port the Natural Resources and Envia goal for post-secondary institutions ronmental Technology program, and to increase the number of internasome goes to applied research.”

Create your own Gourmet Pasta tional students 50 per cent over three With the increase in the number served with garlic toast served with garlic toast or four years, and Bowman says CNC and variety of programs offered is on target to meet that goal. comes an increase in the number Enjoy our delicious pasta for less “It won’t be a huge challenge and, yes, variety of students those Every Tuesday for us, because we’re starting with programs will attract. Bowman says CNC is working in a number of areas lower numbers of students. We have Prices subject to change seen steady growth in the number to attract a wider range of students. of international students who have “We’ve seen the numbers of come here over the past 10 years or Aboriginal students more than so.” double over the past few years, but He adds it’s not just about the what’s more important is the number financial benefits the international of those students who have comstudents supply to the school. pleted their course and graduated 2500 Vance Road 841 Central “It’s good for Canadian students to has also more than doubled.

(Hwy 16 W) (Hwy 97) share the campus with students with “The numbers are still relatively other countries, and get a feel for low, so that is an area we are con250-562-1414 250-564-1221 other cultures.” tinuing to work on.”

allanw@pgfreepress.com

Don’t Like Mondays?

Learn to love Pasta Tuesdays.

9

$ 95

$6.95

$9.95

†

0

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

It’s a whole new look for IPG

March 2012

ABORIGINAL BUSINESS & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

CENTRE

DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

Initiatives Prince George, the economic arm for the City of Prince George, has adopted its 2012 business plan, which has been endorsed by council, and will spend the next year focusing on five areas.

With new leadership, some new board members and a new mayor and council, the organization has the opportunity to change direction, and that change will be led by acting CEO Heather Oland.

The business plan includes partnership and leadership; position and marketing; business retention and expansion; labour attraction and retention; and downPhoto submitted town development.

Acting CEO Heather Oland says IPG now has a When speaking series of interlocking goals. of these focus areas, Oland refers to them well as great amenities. as circles, each intersecting the “We have wonderful restauother with connecting goals. rants,” Oland noted as an example.

For example, attracting people to “When business people come from work in Prince George is linked to out of town I have trouble deciding downtown development. what great restaurant to take them Oland said many people in the to.” north are talking about a looming She added the city has many skilled labour shortage. positive selling points.

Right now, Oland said, the “Sometimes I think we need to community is functionally fully be more proud. We should all be employed. Employees are needed, ambassadors.” not only in trades and skilled The labour positions that will labour, but in other professional need filling in the north will be in jobs to support institutions like the thousands, she said, meaning the university as well as the cancer selling the city will be important, centre, which will likely open late which also matches another need in the year. This means encouragstated by many of those who ran ing job fairs like the one Oland for a council seat during the fall recently attended in Vancouver. election – building the tax base.

This also converges with the new Oland added she is looking formayor’s message about changing ward to the organization being one the conversation regarding Prince of the entities that will be scrutiGeorge. nized during the city’s core service “We need to be out there, not review. Providing great service reacting but telling our story,” while utilizing resources in the Oland said. best possible way is something she And this story includes a mesheartily supports. sage about good paying jobs, avail“Everyone should look forward able affordable housing and the at an opportunity to improve serproximity of outdoor recreation as vices,” she said.

We’re involved in the community because we care Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program

This program is for those who need a little more guidance with the business plan development stage. Upon successful completion, clients receive an incentive that they can contribute to start up costs or to leverage additional financing.

All Nations Elders

The All Nations Elders is a group that works together on projects for the betterment of the Aboriginal community in Prince George. It is open and inclusive to all Elders, regardless of ethnicity and age. Youth are encouraged to Angelique’s Native Arts participate.

Financial Literacy Program

The workshops cover topics such as assets, budgeting, consumerism, banking, credit and credit repair.

It also includes a matched savings component.

“2005 Community Arts Council’s Arts Gallery of Honor Award”

Information: 250-562-6325

www.abdc.bc.ca • admin@abdc.bc.ca 3845 - 15th Avenue, Prince George, BC ACTION IS THE KEY

Aboriginal Business & Community Development Centre is here to meet the individualized approach needed to assist Aboriginal entrepreneurs with developing their business ideas. We have assisted over 1,600 clients since inception.

Self-Employment Assistance Services • Business ideas • Market research • Start-ups • Acquiring financing • Mentoring • After-care services

7

8 March 2012

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

ANTIQUES

ON SIXTH

All Antiques in the store are 100 years or older.

We offer:

REFINISHING REFURBISHING SALES We also do reÄnishing and refurbishing of non-antiques.

Location 1117 6th Ave Prince George, BC (250) 617-0040 pkellyconsultinginc@yahoo.ca (Diagonal from the Keg)

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

9

UNBC looking hard at more engineering ALLAN WISHART

started immediately, which it can’t. “If we got the funding tomorrow,� Ryan says, “our first intake of students would be in two or three The University of Northern Brityears.� ish Columbia is hoping it can win That means planning for the the lottery when it comes to engineeds of industry in the north six neering programs. or seven years down the road to “That’s the thing with the new start with, which Iwama says presprograms,� says UNBC president ents its own problems.

George Iwama. “It’s like “It’s not just not knowing the next lottery winner, what courses we might be where you don’t know offering, it’s attracting prohow close you are. fessors to the region and “What we’re doing at the institution. this point is responding “You don’t just take them to questions and pushing off the shelf.� forward the model we’re We are a However, he says, UNBC looking at.� research-orihas some advantages there Dean of Science and ented univeras well.

Management Dan Ryan sity, and we “We are a researchhas been on the forefront have a great oriented university, and we of developing a larger reputation in have a great reputation in engineering program for research� research.� the school, and he feels -George Ryan says bringing in they are in a great spot.

Iwama new branches of engineer“We’re in an exciting ing would be expensive, situation,� he says, “where but there should be some savings. we’re building basically from the “We need more facilities, but we ground up.� do have room on the campus to The need is definitely there for an increased engineering presence develop them. There is also some natural overlap in the labs needed. at the school, they say.

We wouldn’t need a special lab for “The recent survey funded by each branch of engineering.� the Northern Technology and He adds there are also other Engineering Society,� Iwama says, avenues the school is exploring for “acknowledged the need in the labs. north for engineers in a range of “Industry is open to us, and have areas.� shown willingness to make For instance, he says, some lab space available to mining companies have us as well. indicated a need for “We are definitely interchemical, structural and ested in working with them mechanical engineers, to make sure the program among others. is geared for the north.� “The projects are Iwama says so far, the expanding in the north, If we got province has not given and engineering comthe fundUNBC any reason to panies are looking to ing tomorexpand as well. row, our first expect immediate funding for further engineering “We see opportuniintake of stuprograms. ties in renewable energy dents would “The difficult thing about systems and other disbe in two or making these proposals is ciplines that don’t even three years.� that it’s not a designated exist today.�

- Dan Ryan fund we’re looking at.

And that represents “It’s like a White Spot one of the problems with menu. We’ve got almost every developing a program. There are imaginable combination of proso many areas to work in, and a grams, and we’ve got the numbers new program couldn’t cover all of for all of them.� them at the same time – even if it

allanw@pgfreepress.com

5 L 0 " L J

0 " L J 1 "

0 " L J 1 " 5

‘‘

A l l a n W I S H A RT / F re e P re s s

UNBC President George Iwama, left, and Dean of Science and Management Day Ryan look over one of the development plans for an increased engineering program at the school.

Did you know?

The Prince George Montessori Education Society offers education programs for ages ranging from pre-school to high school.

The Montessori Child Care Centre and Early Learning Centre offer affordable fees and ďƒ&#x;exible class times.

Prince George’s Montessori elementary school and high school programs are public choice programs offered at no cost to parents. There are no monthly fees to attend a Montessori school in Prince George.

Prince George Montessori teachers follow the B.C. curriculum established by the Ministry of Education taught within the context of the Montessori philosophy.

For more information about Montessori’s unique, hands-on approach to learning, please visit www.pgmontessori.ca or contact Shelley Bond at 250-562-6560.

The Àrst duty of an education is to stir up life but leave it free to develop. - Maria Montessori

1 " 5 L

‘‘

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

10 March 2012

Zimmer sees better economy ahead BILL PHILLIPS

Asia, specifically China.

“He did a lot of the legwork,” he said. “And he did it when it didn’t Bob Zimmer has a lot of respect look necessary.” for people in Prince George who Zimmer said the Port of Prince have weathered the economic storm Rupert is another bright spot on over the past couple of the horizon as northyears. east coalfields start to And, says the Prince develop and the black George-Peace River gold will be shipped MP, the diligence and through Prince George. patience of wading As for Ottawa, Zimthrough those times is, mer says infrastructure hopefully, about to pay funding will continue, off. although not at the same “The outlook for pace as was approved Prince George is amazunder the Economic ing,” he said.

Action Plan that was Bob Zimmer As an attendee at designed as a stimulus - P.G.-Peace River the Natural Resources for the economy.

Forum in Prince George “The prime minister in January, the rookie MP was has said spending won’t be like it buoyed by what he saw, and feels was before, but we’re still going to the city is on the cusp of an ecobe doing it,” he said. nomic boom.

Zimmer also pointed to the gas “The reality is that unemployment tax transfer as something that is still at eight per cent,” he said.

Ottawa is doing to help communi“We haven’t seen that (economic ties. upswing) yet, it’s just taking some “Municipalities can rely on it,” he time to get here.” said.

He praised Prince George-MackOne of the largest projects on the enzie MLA Pat Bell for helping the horizon, of course, is the Northern forest industry develop markets in Gateway Pipeline project stretcheditor@pgfreepress.com

ing from Edmonton to Kitimat. The project is not without controversy, but Zimmer says the review process has to run its course. He said Ottawa supports responsible resource development, meaning a project has to be good for the economy without

STILL THE SAME

Photo submitted

Grains were a big part of the Prince George Exhibition in 1916, and they still are as the fair celebrates its centennial in 2012.

Wood centre goes big DELYNDA PILON

Serving Our Community with Respect & Dignity ASSMAN’S FUNERAL CHAPEL A FULL CHOICE FUNERAL CENTRE Traditional, Cremation & Memorial Services www.assmansfuneralchapel.com

1908 Queensway St. 250-564-4431

75 Years in Prince George

adversely affecting the environment.

More immediate, though, Zimmer said he is encouraged to see that several organizations in Prince George have been holding job fairs.

That means jobs are becoming available, we just need to fill them.

newsroom@pgfreepress.com

Though MLA Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, would like to see a 10-storey Wood Innovation and Design Centre in the heart of the city, that may not happen.

“Some proposals are taller, some are shorter, but my goal is to achieve the tallest wood building in the world,” Bell said.

However, he does expect the centre itself, which will be located on Fourth and George on the site of the old Prince George Hotel, to be under construction before the end of the year.

Though the WIDC wasn’t a listed budgeted item, Bell said the cost of the project is included in the document.

“We don’t want to release the final number yet but it’s held

in contingencies,” he said.

Following gathering responses from a Request for Expressions of Interest, the province will begin a two-step process with a Request for Qualifications which shortlists a bidder’s selection.

“It’s a very complex process,” Bell said.

“We want a short list of developers to work with.”

The province will then move forward with a selection of contractors, then tenders will go out.

The building will likely utilize crosslaminated timbers, meaning it can be built tall, though Bell said many who expressed interest felt the design, at six storeys, could easily meet all of the goals named by those envisioning its development and purpose.

Surrounded by lush and diverse forests,

Prince George has long been known for that industry, from lumbering logging trucks snorting up muddy landings and returning, packed tight, to mills, to pulp and paper mills and lumber yards.

The WIDC will stand tall as a showcase of what can be done with wood building, teaching cutting-edge industry methods to a new generation while housing everything from government offices to retail space.

“The key is for us to use this as a demonstration of building taller and bigger,” Bell said. “It will be a learning facility as well as a home for businesses, government and organizations.

“This is very good news for downtown Prince George. People will want to come and see this building,” he said.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

Aboriginal business grows too big for site

11

comfort isn’t complicated

A variety of floor plans and features to choose from such as:

DELYNDA PILON

• Free high speed internet • Exclusive “Comfort Bed” • Balconies • State-of-the-art Fitness Centre • 32” LCD/HDTV • Ergonomic desk and chairs • Vaulted ceilings • Pool & Hot Tub • Gas fireplaces Our in-house services include the Blackwater Restaurant and Lounge, Room Service, The Willow Room for meetings and gatherings for up to 60 persons, catering and much more.

• One and two bedroom suites • Hospitality suites • Beautiful hardwood floors • Deep soaker Jacuzzi tubs

newsroom@pgfreepress.com

The 2012 Aboriginal Business Match was a success even before the first participant walked through the door, so much so in fact that it outgrew the Civic Centre as a venue for next year.

Vincent Prince, executive director of the Aboriginal Business Development Centre, sat on the steering committee.

“I helped guide some of the things going on and I participated in some of the workshops,” Prince, who headed up his own tourism company at one time, said.

He said though the event wasn’t a fit for the development centre, it was a positive experience for some of the businesses they represent. Likewise, he heard a lot of great feedback from others who attended.

“From discussions with First Nations economic development representatives, they thought the business match concept was really unique.

They got a lot of information out of being able to meet with so many good contacts and initiatives,” he said.

Katrin Henry, managing partner with Raven Event Management, said the event was sold out to a capacity crowd, and people had to be turned away.

“It’s exceeding expectations,” she said. “I’ve spoken to everyone, and every single one of them committed for 2013.”

Henry said the event is the most cost-effective way to connect, providing 31 appointments for each First Nations band represented.

“Companies are very happy to have access to all these connections,” she said. “People come here with plans and strategies about what they want to accomplish. We asked them ahead of time about their goals and expectations.”

Those ran the gamut, she said, from something as simple as insurance questions to the more complex quest of finding an appropriate business partner.

“They were very specific in what they were looking for.”

The e-profiles the business delegates and First Nations representatives completed helped match goals

March 2012

D e v o n C R A I G / S p e c i a l t o F re e P re s s

A rather unique paddle was one of the displays at the event. and interests and led to almost 5,000 hours of business meetings over the course of the event.

On Feb. 13, during the first day of the event, memoranda of understandings were signed between seven of eight partners, to mark the launch of the Aboriginal Business Association.

Industry Council for Aboriginal Business president Keith Henry said the BCABA will deliver workshops in regional sessions across the province, skills development forums and coordinate regional industry, corporate industry, First Nations business and Aboriginal entrepreneur sessions to identify contract opportunities and requirements.

“First Nations are very serious about their economic development,” Katrin Henry said.

She added a thank you to the Lheidli T’enneh for welcoming them into their traditional territory.

“As an Aboriginal person and CEO of the Aboriginal Tourism Association of B.C., I’ve never seen such positive and concrete outcomes from a conference before,” Keith Henry, who chaired the ABM 2012 steering committee, said in a press release following the event.

“I’m encouraged by what I think will be the long-term results of this event.”

1790 Hwy 97 South, Prince George, B.C.

1-800-325-3535

fourpointsprincegeorge.com

We will make your stay one of the best hotel experiences ever.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

12 March 2012

Museum looking at mining ALLAN WISHART allanw@pgfreepress.com

Ranjit Gill tries to balance the two industries in the name of the Railway and Forestry Museum on River Road.

Soon, she may have to try balancing a third component.

“We’re starting inquiries to get mining artifacts into the museum,” the executive director says. “Mining has been a very important part of the economy of northern B.C., and while there are places like Barkerville, we see a need for a place to collect the history itself.”

While she is looking at expanding the scope of what the museum covers, she’s also still working to increase the exhibits dealing with the current stuff.

“We’re getting an ambulance from Canfor. Our biggest problem right now is we don’t have a building to house artifacts.”

The museum also takes advantage of other situations as they arise.

“When the Keg closed for renovations, I approached (owner) Kelly Nordin about some of the old

Free Press file photo

Sidney the Kidney (can you pick him out?) was one of the passengers on the mini-rail at the Railway and Forestry Museum udring one of their many special events.

Experience the Taste...

Experience the taste with the highest quality service, in a courteous and friendly manner

NORTH 54 RESTAURANT

1493 - 3rd Ave. Prince George, Bc

250.564.5400 www.north54restaurant.com

“Our purpose is to provide a culphotos they had on the walls, and tural experience for Prince George we were able to get some of them and visitors, and preserve the for the museum.” industrial heritage of the region.”

While there are long-term plans A lot of that, she says, involves for the museum, there are also making the museum as more immediate items family-friendly as possible. they are working on, Gill “We have a lot of activisays. ties for families during the “What we’ve been year, from regular fun days focusing on is accesto our Friends of Thomas sibility. We redid a lot days to the Festival of of the paths so people Museums are Lights at Christmas. We could travel on them with great learnalso like to be part of the wheelchairs, and now ing tools for community by offering we want to get the patio everyone, free admission to a lot of wheelchair-accessible as our events if people make but they are well.”

There are also plans to also great for a donation to the food bank.” make one of the cars on memories.

The next exhibit the the mini-railway accesThe seniors museum will have is one sible for wheelchairs. who come Gill says the accessibilhere on tours on the 100th anniversary of ity is an important aspect have stories the B.C. Forest Service.

“That one will run all of the museum. to tell.”

“Museums are great -Ranjit Gill summer,” Gill says, “and we’ll have a series of leclearning tools for everytures over those months.” one, but they are also She says one of the main longgreat for memories. The seniors range plans is another familywho come here on tours have stofriendly one. ries to tell.

“We want to build a building to “I have done interviews with allow our volunteers to work on people who originally built the artifacts. We want to have a viewmuseum in 1983.” ing area above the work area so Gill offers almost a direct quote visitors will be able to watch them from the museum’s operating work.” statement.

‘‘

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

ABDC finds variety of needs DELYNDA PILON

entered the residential construction field, then began working in a mill.

But his parents, aware of his potential and interests, always encouraged From helping budding hip-hop artists or a party interested in a Sub- him to go back to school, which he did. way franchise to teaching financial Though he became a professional literacy to a variety of clients, the cook, he found there duties of those who work wasn’t much money at the Aboriginal Business in the trade and it was Development Centre are back to construction for as varied as the people him for about 17 years. who walk through their “I almost went broke doors. and that drove me back “There’s no limit to to school again,” he said. what we come across,” The business diploma said Vincent Prince, execuhe earned opened a lot tive director. “And we will of doors for Prince. He help anyone, or at least spent two years maktry, who walks through Vincent Prince ing Project Refocus a that door.”

- Executive director success, moved on to a When it comes to busimarketing job with BC ness, they provide a full Hydro, then taught pre-employment range of services from helping cliskills at the college. ents set up a viable business plan to He also helped develop the assisting them with accessing funds.

Aboriginal Business DevelopThey help clients access market ment Centre and became the first research as well, however in a lesser employee of the organization. capacity.

He left in 1999, though he con“We rarely do hard market tracted his services to them for research because they need to know another year. That’s when he started how to find their customers,” Prince his own very successful tourism said. company. After seven years he got However, they do help align their clients with the services they require, out of that, then went on to work for the health department with the like lining up promotional material Young Warriors program. providers with a up-and-coming “Then I came back here,” he said. hip-hop band.

“I like to hunt, fish, craft, sing and “The biggest role that we play is dance and do all kinds of stuff.” making the client realize whether, Many of those interests become one, it’s a good idea and, two, if they applicable within the community are the ones to do it,” Prince said. development aspect of the organiza“They have to love their idea. They tion. For example, fish and game that have to have passion and be willing to stick to their guns no matter what. Prince helps to harvest is packaged and given to local elders.

If we can find that mix, funding is Elders are also helpful within the never really the issue.” organization and share their knowlPrince added they do several edge by sharing culture and lanworkshops per year as well, mainly guage in the classroom. in outlying areas for people unable Besides acting as a liaison between to make it to the office.

Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal busi“We want to help people undernesses as well as Aboriginal busistand different opportunities,” he nesses and the community, Prince said. is putting together a partnership to Prince, who took over the execushowcase First Nations culture at the tive director position from Ray 2015 Canada Winter Games.

Gerow several months ago, has Perhaps sharing culture is one of dabbled in several different interests the most attractive parts of Prince’s over the years, from appearing on a job. local cooking show in Kamloops to “And Aboriginal culture is based wrangling horses – and that, he said, on sharing, respect and openness. is the secret to his success.

Those are good values for everyone.

“I know something about everyThat’s why you can’t go wrong workthing – I swear,” he laughed. “You ing with Aboriginal businesses,” he need that type of knowledge base.” said.

Prince left school in Grade 9 and newsroom@pgfreepress.com

March 2012

13

14

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

<]`bVS`\ 5ObSeOg 8]W\ bVS Q]\dS`aObW]\ /\ ]^S\ ZSbbS` b] 0`WbWaV 1]Zc[PWO\a(

8=7< B63 1=<D3@A/B7=< G]c¸ZZ TW\R W\T]`[ObW]\ O\R Sf^S`ba eV] QO\ VSZ^ g]c USb b] bVS P]bb][ ]T bVS WaacSa Ob(

<]`bVS`\5ObSeOg4OQba QO

;g \O[S Wa 8O\Sb 6]ZRS` 7 O[ O 0`WbWaV 1]Zc[PWO\ O\R bVS SfSQcbWdS `Sa^]\aWPZS T]` ZSORW\U 3\P`WRUS¸a <]`bVS`\ 5ObSeOg >`]XSQb eVWQV W\QZcRSa O ^W^SZW\S bVOb e]cZR RSZWdS` ]WZ b] 9WbW[Ob 01 T]` RWab`WPcbW]\ b] e]`ZR [O`YSba

>cPZWQ VSO`W\Ua ]\ bVS ^`]XSQb PSUO\ 8O\cO`g O\R 7 Y\]e bVSg eWZZ Q]\bW\cS b] US\S`ObS aWU\WTWQO\b ObbS\bW]\ P]bV ^]aWbWdS O\R \SUObWdS

;g ^c`^]aS T]` e`WbW\U bVWa ]^S\ ZSbbS` b] g]c abS[a T`][ O RSS^ ^S`a]\OZ O\R ^`]TSaaW]\OZ Q][[Wb[S\b b] S\ac`S bVOb eS `Sa^SQb SdS`g]\S¸a `WUVb b] O TOW` aOg ES VOdS O Z]\U b`ORWbW]\ ]T ZWabS\W\U b] OZZ ]^W\W]\a 4]` ]dS` aWf RSQORSa Wb¸a V]e eS¸dS R]\S PcaW\Saa O\R eWZZ Q]\bW\cS b] R] PcaW\Saa

7 W\dWbS g]c b] S\UOUS W\ bVS Q]\dS`aObW]\ POaSR ]\ W\T]`[SR Y\]eZSRUS POaSR ]^W\W]\a eVWQV O`S U`]c\RSR W\ POZO\QSR TOQba O\R `SOZWbWSa 3\P`WRUS S\Q]c`OUSa g]c b] USb W\d]ZdSR O\R X]W\ eVOb eWZZ PS O\ c\^`SQSRS\bSR O\R Q`WbWQOZ RWaQcaaW]\ O\R RSPObS

ES eWZZ VSZ^ Ob SdS`g bc`\ b] ZWabS\ O\R `Sa^]\R b] g]c` _cSabW]\a ]` ^]W\b g]c RW`SQbZg b] ^ZOQSa O\R ^S]^ZS eVS`S g]c QO\ S\UOUS W\ bVS Q]\dS`aObW]\ eVSbVS` W\ ac^^]`b ]` \]b

/ZZ eS OaY Wa bVOb g]c R] a] eWbV O aS\aS ]T TOW` [W\RSR W\dSabWUObW]\ QWdWZWbg O\R O bV]`]cUV U`Oa^ ]T bVS WaacSa a][S ab`OWUVbT]`eO`R Pcb [O\g Q][^ZSf

ES TcZZg OQQS^b bVS `Sa^]\aWPWZWbg ]T SO`\W\U g]c` b`cab O\R Q]\TWRS\QS `SUO`RW\U bVS VWUV abO\RO`Ra O\R Sf^SQbObW]\a ]T bVWa ^`]XSQb A] PSUW\ g]c` X]c`\Sg Ob ]c` eSPaWbS T]ZZ]e ]c` PZ]Ua T]ZZ]e bVS TOQba O\R X]W\ bVS Q]\dS`aObW]\ eWbV ca

8O\Sb 6]ZRS` 3fSQcbWdS DWQS >`SaWRS\b ESabS`\ /QQSaa 3\P`WRUS 7\Q

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

15

Chamber ready for next 100 DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

The Prince George Chamber of Commerce existed before the local municipal government came into being and celebrated its 100th anniversary over the course of the last 12 months, hosting a number of events to mark the occasion.

Jennifer Brandle-McCall, chamber CEO, said when the organization first opened its doors in 1911 it was a small group of all-male businessmen with interests in the city.

Many of those same men went on to become involved in local government.

About two years ago BrandleMccall found an original book of minutes from one of these early meetings which provided a glimpse into the origins of the city.

The book was donated to Exploration Place museum.

“The chamber is no longer allmale,” Brandle-Mccall said. “It has seven female board members and eight male and broadly represents all different types of businesses, so the profile of the chamber and its function has changed.”

The chamber works with all levels of government to lobby and advocate on behalf of the businesses it represents.

“We want to impress on them what is important to our membership,” she said.

It is funded by membership dues, meaning it, as an organization, can speak critically on a variety of subjects.

A representative is at every municipal government meeting, be it council, committee of the whole or budget, and that person always takes the same seat so elected officials know he or she is present.

With the new council and mayor, Brandle-McCall said chamber members are happy to see a clear focus on business. In fact, the chamber participated in the mayor’s select committee on business and polled its membership to discover what the city was doing well as well as pinpoint any gaps in service.

However, contributing that piece to the committee is not where it ends with the chamber. Next, they want to see some action taken on the recommendations given.

“It’s not enough to poll people and create a list,” she said. “The next part is the implementation of that list with a timeline and achievable goals. We will press for that.”

Prince George Chamber of Commerce president Bill McGill and director Cindy Pohl mingle with guests at the centennial fundraiser dinner and dance in March.

Free Press file photo

New members, who can join by registering on the chamber website at www.pgchamber.bc.ca, will be interested in the many programs and benefits the chamber offers.

Its speaker series remains wellattended. Brandle-McCall said.

Various businesspeople, politicians and other experts have spoken at these events, which usually occur over breakfast or lunch.

Business After 5 is a convenient affordable networking opportunity.

Speed Networking, she said, is a modern business take on speed dating. Each person sits with a partner for a 90-second pitch, then switch and rotate through the room.

“A lot of people are short on time,” she said. “During these you can make more contacts in one night than you usually do in months.”

Brandle-McCall said in the last two years she’s been CEO there has been a lot of internal change at the chamber, from a website upgrade to new events.

New members, she added, are always welcome, with dues based on employees. Charities pay $150 while those with 1,000 employees pay $500.

Most dues are in the $200/$250 range.

She added research shows customers who know a business belong to the local chamber are 44 per cent more likely to favour

the business and 63 per cent more likely to purchase from it.

“And it’s especially beneficial for

smaller businesses,” she added.

“There are various ways to market your business.”

WONDERING WHAT DIRECTION TO TAKE

YOUR CAREER? There’s a career that starts with a naturally abundant sustainable resource, in an industry that is poised for growth and stability.

GROW WITH US. FIND OUT HOW AT THE NEW:

WWW.CANFOR.COM

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

16 March 2012

Playhouse changing to fit needs TERESA MALLAM arts@pgfreepress.com

The Prince George Playhouse is painted deep mauve outside and inside the look is getting a little rosier.

Although still owned by the City of Prince George, the building has undergone some changes in decor and last year took on a new management team, Matt and Anna Russell of Enchainement Productions Inc. “Our focus for the 2012/2013 season will be on promoting new events coming to the building and also trying to find new uses for it,” said Matt.

“Right now it’s baby steps as we go along but the first step in that direction is rebranding the Playhouse a little so people know what goes on here. We want the community to get involved, particularly local arts groups and we encourage more people to use the space.”

Changes in layout to promote better “people flow” for larger gatherings will be made over time as the budget allows, Matt said.

“We’ve changed up the decor in the lobby with new paint but down the road, we’d like to revamp

Photo submitted

The outside of the Prince George Playhouse gives few clues as to the changes the building is undergoing under a new management team. groups or meetings or whatever they always trying to find new uses for the reception area. When we have the building. want. We have to take note – the events in the lobby with 200 to 300 “We are members of the B.C. TourVancouver Playhouse just closed its people it can get a little crowded, ing Council and we work with them doors after 50 years, so it’s up to us so I know we can improve on the when we want to bring artists here to make sure that doesn’t happen layout.” in a financially viable way. It works here.”

For future sustainability, Matt Most people know about the Play- out well for all of us.” hopes that local arts groups will be In October the Sojourners are set house as a venue for film screenings, able to come together and follow a to take the stage at the Playhouse entertainment events and live thewell known “strength in numbers” atre but the building is also available with Madison Violet in November model. to book special events like weddings, and Cadence in March 2013. The “Our vision is to bring other Prince George Playhouse is located memorials, receptions and family or groups into the building and have at 2833 Recreation Place. For more class reunions. them use the space. They can use information visit www.pgplayhouse.

“They’re is lots going on but we’re it for their art classes or drama

SHINE LIKE KE A STAR

S T OF P BEReader’s Choice G Best Place for Music Lessons

20

11/12

NOW OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND! PROFESSIONAL MUSIC LESSONS

All ages welcome… all styles of music both by ear and note

• Piano • Keyboard • Flute • Guitar • Bass Guitars • Drums • Cello • Violin • Vocal • Saxophone BEST TEACHERS • MOST EXPERIENCE

SIGN UP NOW! 7 Reasons to Play a Musical Instrument 1. Fun 2. Makes You Smarter 3. Relieves Stress 4. Teaches Discipline 5. Increase Memorizing Capacity 6. Improves Reasoning Capacity 7. 80% of academic awards are awarded to the 20% group made up of music students

Canada’s Music Store

356 George St • 250-563-0691

princegeorge@long-mcquade.com

SALES • RENTALS • REPAIRS • FINANCING • MUSIC LESSONS • ONLINE SHOPPING

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

Timberwolves move to big stage ALISTAIR MCINNIS

each team win a pair of provincial titles since 2008.

At the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association national level, the men’s They celebrated double gold at team made its fourth consecutive PacWest basketball provincials in appearance at the national chamNorth Vancouver in early March. pionship tournament this year. The Yet some people may argue the bigTimberwolves finished the tournagest highlight of 2012 for the UNBC ment in Truro, N.S. tied with Indiens Northern Timberwolves will come d’Ahuntsic (Quebec) for fifth in the later this year. They’re on track to eight-team competition. begin their first season as They celebrated UNBC’s members of the Canada first national title in 2010 West Universities Athletic when they brought home Association (CWUAA) in the CCAA banner from September, and with their Calgary and finished final college campaign fourth as hosts in 2009. now a thing of the past, As for the CCAA womattention turns to the fall en’s basketball national and what’s going to be a championships, UNBC very busy spring and sumfinished tied with the mer.

Algonquin College ThunPreparing for the move Jason Kerswill der (Ontario) for fifth in started well before the - Athletics director this year’s tournament.

2011-12 season ended, as The Timberwolves took UNBC has known since home a sixth-place result last September its basketball and soccer teams would be joining the Canada in their first appearance in the tournaWest division of Canadian Interuniver- ment in 2008 in Truro.

The results in soccer haven’t been sity Sport. But these days, the real fun nearly as high. The closest UNBC got begins with the university already in the process of hiring two full-time paid to CCAA soccer nationals was provincial silver in the men’s tournament in soccer coaches. During the program’s 2010, when they lost to the Vancouver first five seasons from 2007 to 2011, as Island University Mariners in the promembers of PacWest (previously the vincial final in Surrey. The women’s B.C. Colleges Athletic Association), team never qualified for playoffs in its the teams were guided by volunteer coaches. Sonny Pawar (men) and Mato five-year run in the college league. But Kerswill believes both programs are Mikic (women) held those positions. heading in the right direction.

“Really, the soccer coaches, the With UNBC and the Mount Royal idea is to get them here on campus University Cougars of Calgary joining and allow them several months to the fold, the CWUAA is expanding recruit before the start of the season,” from 14 to 16 members. While a tierUNBC director of athletics and recreing system to separate the larger uniation Jason Kerswill said, noting that versities from the smaller institutions they’d hope to have offseason trainhas been discussed, that won’t be in ing sessions for returning players and place for the 2012-13 season, Kerswill potential newcomers shortly after the noted. Instead, UNBC will look at positions get filled. “With the sports regular-season schedules of 22 games information director position, we’d be looking probably somewhere late May, for its basketball teams. On the soccer pitch, the men will play an unbalearly June for that position to start anced 14-game schedule and women right here on campus, which is excita 12-game schedule in which they play ing and then we’ll have our full staff each other team once. moving forward and we’ll have a good It’d be unrealistic to expect instant team of seven.” success in Canada West for UNBC. UNBC women’s basketball assistant But Kerswill is hopeful they won’t be coach Kaz Ikuta holds the other posiswimming in the deep end. tion in the department, as the athletics “Our coaches will go into the year and recreation assistant. next year in both basketball and soccer The longevity of basketball at and the goal is to have a competitive UNBC, well into its second decade competing provincially, and the benefit program with a stretch goal of let’s make the playoffs in the first year of of full-time coaches in Todd Jordan our participation in Canada West, (men) and Loralyn Murdoch (women) which would be an amazing accomhas boosted that program. The result has been a string of success that’s seen plishment.” sports@pgfreepress.com

March 2012

17

18

March 2012

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES • Landfills • Transfer Stations • Recycling Drop Depots • Composting • Public Drinking Water Systems • Public Waste Water Systems • Regional Parks Systems

Visit our new website at:

www.rdffg.bc.ca Find out about the services we are providing in your community.

FIRE/RESCUE & 9-1-1 SERVICES • 9-1-1 Call Answer • Centralized Fire/Rescue Dispatch • Volunteer Fire/Rescue Services • Public Education • Volunteer Recruitment • Emergency Planning/Response and Recovery

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

HERITAGE & CULTURE SERVICES

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

Providing operating funds towards:

• Long Range Planning • Zoning & Agricultural Land Reserve • Development and Subdivision • Special Events Management • Building Plan Reviews • Building Advice • On-Site Building Inspections • Bylaw Compliance

• Exploration Place (Regional Museum) • Huble Farm Heritage Site • Mackenzie and District Museum • PG Regional Art Gallery • PG Railway and Forestry Museum • Valemount and Area Museum • Valley Museum and Archives • Whistle Stop Gallery

COMMUNITY SERVICES Helping our communities to build or enhance local services such as: • Street Lights • Telephone and Gas Extensions • Libraries • Cemeteries • Local Grant Programs • Community & Recreation Facilities

155 George Street Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Ph: (250) 960-4400 Call Toll-Free: 1-800-667-1959 Fax: (250) 563-7520 Email: district@rdffg.bc.ca Website: www.rdffg.bc.ca

19

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

20 March 2012

PGX putting on a show for centennial Three years before the City of Prince George was incorporated and the same year the Titanic sank, the first Prince George Exhibition was held.

According to Ted Williams, one of Prince George’s most notable local historians, “a few men met, had a few drinks, put their straw hats together and came up with the idea of a fall fair.”

They hoped that townspeople and farmers in the district would exhibit, compete, enjoy themselves and draw the community together.

Only in a handful of instances has the fair been cancelled. It has weathered the storm of world wars, times of hardship and prosperity, growth and development, growing pains and change.

This spirit continues.

August 8-12, the PGX will “Celebrate 100 Years”.

An impetus for tourism, the PGX is the highlight of the summer and our region’s largest and longest running family event.

The PGX can boast the highest number of volunteers and the largest crowds over any other annual event.

Hosting several equine competitions will collectively bring hundreds of teams and thousands of competitors in the draft horse, team cattle penning and barrel racing divisions, to the fairgrounds in Prince George.

“We have added significant money to the prize pots, which has created a lot of excitement throughout western Canada and into the U.S.”, says Terri McConnachie,

a’s

y you look at

it

y!

sta

Gra

m

a yw

…

An

Welcome to

Inn is e to the plac

BEST SPORTS TEAM RATES Starting at $78 (not to be combined with any other offer or promotion. Call for details)

N

Central Street

BUS TOURS AND GROUPS WELCOME

Hwy 97S

Grama’s Inn

Hwy 97N

FREE PLUG-IN PARKING PET FRIENDLY 5th Ave

10th Ave 15th Ave

Photo submitted

The Prince George Exhibition in 1913 was a somewhat differernt event from 2012. general manager. “Last this summer. Potential summer we welcomed buyers are encouraged to support local competitors from as agriculture and these far away as Montana.” future farmers, grow4-H youth, leaders ers and producers. and their volunteers The Legacy Banquet and families have will be held Thursday been working all year August 9 in the CN long for the opportuCentre and feature nity to showcase their a banquet of locally achievements and grown and produced host the annual 4-H food, B.C. wine and Auction at the PGX beer, and a first-rate celebratory program that includes topnotch entertainment by the hilarious Herb Dixon.

Attendees will include past board members and fair managers or their family representative, as our guests, in recognitition of their contribution to the long history of the annual Exhibition. Individuals who have served Grama’s Inn offers you clean, on the board or have comfortable rooms, reasonable rates, a partner, parent or homestyle cooking from Grama’s grandparent who has kitchen. Free wireless internet, kitchen served, please contact the PGX general units, executive suites available.

Ask About Our…

PREFERRED GUEST CARD* (Stay 10 Nights, Get 1 FREE!) Call for details. *Not to be combined with any other offer or promotion

1-877-563-7174 Tel: 250-563-7174 u Email: info@gramasinn.com

www.gramasinn.com

901 Central St, Prince George, BC Canada V2M 3C8

officeto be included: 250-563-4096.

The oldest divisions and a cornerstone to any fair or exhibition are the Home Arts & Horticulture Divisions. Dozens of sections including baking, woodworking, spinning & weaving, quilting, cut flowers & baskets, and hundreds of classes to enter are all featured in the annual Prize Book. The Prize Books will be out in April and we encourage folks to enter at least three items and

challenge three friends to do the same. Let’s fill Home Arts & Horticulture with a sea of blue ribbons.

Mark August 8-12 on your calendar and join us for everything from from barrel racing to bull riding, entertainment and shows on three stages, competitions featuring firefighters, pigs and ducks and lumberjacks, the largest fireworks show in Northern B.C. and a whole lot of fun for all ages and the entire family.

Photo submitted

The PGX is a time for the young – and the young at heart.

It’s for the whole family

The annual Exhibition is a mix of high-energy sporting (equine/ rough stock) events; arts, culture & heritage related activities & exhibits; Agriculture awareness events, exhibits and displays including 4-H achievements and auction – as well as hospitalityrelated events including a banquet, dance, pancake breakfast, concerts, licensed and family

entertainment – all on top of a midway, parade, food court and still so much more….we do it every year….primarily with volunteer labour, sourced funding and grants, event generated revenue, cash and in-kind support and community partnerships!

The PGX will host more than 50,000 fairgoers in Prince George this summer.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

21

CN Centre continues to add to reputation Tucked amidst the wilderness of northern British Columbia, the CN Centre is proving itself on an international stage.

And it is the staff who have made the CN Centre a recognized event facility, it is the people who build the stage, who cook the hot dogs, and who sell the tickets, who make the CN Centre a recognized event facility. The people of the CN Centre care about their clients, their guests, and their city.

Being located in a remote community like Prince George means the CN Centre staff work harder than most to attract acts. And once they do, the staff go an extra distance to welcome the touring shows. They welcome guests and clients with a hearty dose of northern hospitality.

Their enthusiasm has been noticed.

For five years in a row, the CN Centre has been nominated for the prestigious Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Award, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Major Facility of the Yearâ&#x20AC;? (under 8,000 seats). â&#x20AC;&#x153;The nomination continues to be a tremendous recognitionâ&#x20AC;?, says Glen Mikkelsen, entertainment and marketing supervisor.

CN Centre and community arenas manager Andy Beesley says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;our staff have tremendous abilities to not only transform the CN Centre into a wide variety of settings, but also work with promoters and acts in a manner that gets rave reviews.â&#x20AC;?

Fans may not appreciate the fact staff work through the night to transform the facility into a hockey arena one night, a theatre the next, and then back to a hockey rink the following night.

They are busy, stress-filled nights, as staff prepare to host traveling tours in a welcoming, clean, and

N a t a l i e C A M E R O N / F re e P re s s

CN Centre entertainment and marketing supervisor Glen Mikelsen looks at part of the wall of fame of artists who have performed. prepared venue.

In 2012, the CN Centre looks forward to bringing more world-class artists and events to Northern B.C. Presently, Johnny Reid and the Monster Spectacular are some of the shows confirmed this spring.

Also, for the first time, the Fashion and Design Festival is coming May 4 and 5. The festival will be a showcase of local and regional fashion designers, fashion stores, and models. It plans to be a riveting weekend for those keen on the latest fashion trends.

CN Centre is also excited to see community partners bringing entertainment to the North. For example, on May 23, Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation is bringing The Canadian Tenors to the city. This is the first time the Canadian Tenors have been to Prince George, and it plans to be a phenomenal evening of music.

CN Centre encourages people to check out the CN Centre Facebook page for the latest news on shows and events in the region. Daily updates on shows, events, and tickets, are noted on the CN Centre Facebook site â&#x20AC;&#x201C; trying to give as much updated information as possible. Plus, the CN Centre website at www.cncentre.ca is an excellent resource on the latest events.

Mikkelsen says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;people have been very excited about our websiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;CN Centre Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. It is a free virtual club, where people sign up to receive e-mails on upcoming shows. For some shows too, presale passwords are distributed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; allowing fans early access to blockbuster CN Centre entertainment.â&#x20AC;?

CN Centre staff have proven the facility is THE entertainment centre in Northern British Columbia. With world-class national and international events, the CN Centre offers something for everyone. For ticket information and more, just click on www.cncentre.ca.

Your experience begins at Expedia CruiseShipCenters. *,3,)9(;05. ;>,5;@ -0=, @,(9:

Exclusive Benefits Unbeatable Selection, on More than Just Cruises Incredible Value, Exceptional Service

��us

" !

when you book with Expedia CruiseShipCenters,

EARN & REDEEM AEROPLAN MILES!

542 Central Street East, Prince George

you can

ÂŽ

BC REG#: 28982. ÂŽAeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Canada Inc.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

22 March 2012

Cancer centre close to complete DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

From the outside it’s starting to look just about done, but there are still some key elements to complete before the northern cancer centre opens its doors.

Hal Collier, chief project officer with the Northern Cancer Control Strategy partnership, explained people in the north have been advocating for a cancer centre for many years.

“The real driver that finally got the ball rolling happened in 2005,” he said.

In that year Dr. Charles Jago, who was president of the University of Northern B.C. at the time, and Jeff Burghardt, Northern Health chair, were asked by the province to lead a community consultation on access to cancer care in the north. In the same year, Northern Health and the BC Cancer Agency released a report saying a full-service cancer centre was both desirable and feasible for the north. In 2007 the premier endorsed the recommendations made by Jago and Burghardt, and committed to building a regional cancer centre in Prince George. In

Rendering submitted

When completed late in 2012, the BC Cancer Agency Centre for the North will become one of the region’s most important medical facilities.

Bienvenue/Welcome • Bilingual Summer Camps: “Découvre Ton Monde” “Discover Your World”

• Pre-School: “Le Coin des Petits” - French and

Immersion programs September to June - 2-3 mornings per week or 2 afternoons • French Conversational Courses: Beginner to Intermediate - 2 hours per week per session • Resources Centre: French books, video tapes, DVD and computers with internet options

• Cultural & Social Events: Including Festival d’Hiver FRANCOFUN in February

• Hall & Office Rental: Ideal environment for workshops, meetings or small office socials

• Other Services Available: Post

Secondary French Education offered

by Educacentre College contact 1.800.747.4825

Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George Prince George’s French Canadian Association 1752 rue Fir, Prince George, C.-B. V2L 1E7

Tel: (250) 561-2565 • Fax: (250) 561-7319 • cercle@netbistro.com • www.ccfpg.ca Heures d’ouverture: lundi au vendredi 9h à 16h30, soirée / fin de semaine par réservation Hours of operation: Monday to Friday from 9am to 4:30pm, evening or weekend available upon request.

2009 funding was approved for the Northern Cancer Control Strategy, with the cancer centre as its key component.

Groundbreaking for the centre began in 2010.

And though it looks completed now, there is still much to be done inside, Collier said.

“We’ve built the physical bunkers where the machines sit,” he added, speaking of the radiation therapy machines, which arrived in midMarch. “Then there’s a whole series of tests.”

The final test will come from the radiation therapists who will be utilizing the machines themselves.

“In the next few weeks we will be meeting significant milestones,” he added. “The machines will be delivered. We will activate the computer networks. These are huge milestones for us. We can’t confirm the opening until we are past them, but if everything goes smoothly it will happen in late 2012.”

He added the recruitment of the experts required to operate the centre, something that caused a great deal of concern when the project was in its infant stages, has gone smoothly.

“Right from the start there was a massive human resources drive to recruit,” he said.

At this point all the necessary specialists are in place. Hiring second-tier employers, like managers, is also going smoothly.

Besides benefiting northerners stricken with cancer, the primary focus of the project, there are undeniably many other benefits, including to the local economy.

New jobs opened up in the construction phase and more jobs became and are becoming available as the project nears completion.

“And these are significant professional positions,” Collier said. “Beyond that you have the economic multipliers. All of the patients and their families will need to eat. New staff members have kids. They will need schools, places to live and will be putting food on the table.”

Collier pointed out the stability of these positions mean long-term benefits to the community considering there is very little cyclical behaviour when it comes to health care jobs.

“And it reinforces the work at UHNBC. Research will draw in more sophisticated medical people.”

Research will offer a good solid baseline of information on cancer and cancer treatments on patients in the north, meaning patient care can be changed accordingly, he said.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

23

Kordyban Lodge provides respite DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

The story of the Kordyban Lodge is inexorably tied to the story of the cancer centre soon to open its doors in Prince George.

Margaret Jones-Bricker, regional director, northern region, Canadian Cancer Society, B.C. and Yukon Division, said the germination of the idea for a northern cancer centre goes back to a public consultation undertaken by thenUniversity of Northern B.C. president Charles Jago and Northern Health chair Jeff Burghardt. The results of that consultation, and an endorsement of the recommendations made because of it by the premier, led to the commitment of a regional cancer centre which will be strategically placed in Prince George.

At that time, JonesBricker explained, the Canadian Cancer Society indicated it was prepared

to investigate the possibility of building a cancer lodge to compliment the centre. Jones-Bricker said the Cancer Society stepped forward because research showed building a supportive home away from home for cancer patients in treatment would stop a gap in services that would exist if no lodge was built.

Plus the Canadian Cancer Society has a long successful history of building and running lodges in B.C., with three in various communities within the province.

One of them has run successfully for 30 years.

The Cancer Society commissioned a feasibility study to ensure there was sufficient support for the project. The majority of the funds needed to get the lodge built would come from private donations. The first of those was significant, a $2 million pledge from Mary Kordyban.

However, the target

vidual rooms possible, and amount necessary was $10 now those rooms will bear million, so there was still a their names. For example, significant way to go. the meditation room is The society recruited a named for the Novak famcabinet made up of many ily; the activity well-known room for Telus; and respected the library for businessmen Northline Credit to help the Union; the family project move room for Northforward on sevland Dodge; the eral fronts. primary lounge Les Waldie for West Fraser became camTimber; the main paign manager. lobby and recep“For 18 tion for Canfor; months they and the outdoor worked tireMary Kordyban - Donor for family garden for Pacific lessly to deliver Western Brewour message ery. The land the to northerners. lodge sits on was donated They were able to provide by the City of Prince information from other George. lodges, from patients who “Individuals, foundations stayed in them. These were and corporate groups came powerful testimonials to together because they saw the need,” Jones-Bricker the need for this lodge,” said.

Jones-Bricker said.

She added besides She pointed out many providing a place to stay, patients will stay in the lodges are also places to lodge for five to six weeks heal. at a time.

Many donors made indi-

• Second lowest tuition in BC • Small class sizes • More than 50 programs to choose from • Six campuses in north central British Columbia 250.562.2131 / 1.800.371.8111

It will house 36 residents with 18 double rooms.

Meals will be provided on-site. There will be a wig room, a breast prosthesis room, a massage room, a Jacuzzi and a TV lounge.

And, on May 4, the Freemasons, who have partnered with the Canadian Cancer Society for 25 years, will make an official announcement about the rides they intend to provide the patients using the lodge, with the help of volunteer drivers.

The Kordyban Lodge is expected to open at the end of November, though the date isn’t official yet.

However, Jones-Bricker said right now everything is going according to schedule. Currently the society is searching for a lodge manager (www.maxhire.net/cp/searchresults. aspx?site=546D361D4371 7B77571B&AspxAutoDet ectCookieSupport=1) as they begin filling necessary positions.

24

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

SkyLab, garden add to library ALLAN WISHART allanw@pgfreepress.com

The downtown branch of the Prince George Public Library is growing up and out in the near future.

The ‘up’ portion of the growth is SkyLab, and it’s already underway, while the ‘out’ portion is the Knowledge Garden, which is still in the planning stages.

“SkyLab will be on two levels,” says chief librarian Allan Wilson.

“We’re making the best use of our space. We have very high ceilings here, with nothing being done with all that space.”

Putting SkyLab, which will be the main Internet area of the library, on two levels will also make it easier, he feels, for people to learn about using computers.

“We have found the most effective learning is quick tutorials.

What we found, though, was that we would have a small group taking part in the actual tutorial, and another, larger, group sitting sort of on the outskirts, where they could listen to what was taking place.”

SkyLab takes that, literally, to

another level.

“The tutorials will be held on the lower level,” Wilson says, “but someone can sit on the upper level, whether they’re on one of the machines there or just reading in one of the chairs, and they’ll be able to follow what’s happening in the tutorial.

“Some people, we find, just don’t feel comfortable being part of a group when it comes to learning.”

The shift to teaching people, especially seniors (“our largestgrowing demographic,” Wilson reminds people), about how to access the Internet and use electronic resources is part of what the library is going through on a fullscale basis.

“We’re in a transition period,” Wilson says. “We’re moving from traditional books to more social media and e-books. The business market has changed as well, and some electronic media are punishing libraries with their policies.

They want to market directly to the reader, and don’t see a need to include libraries in their figuring.”

As an example, he says, there are some publishers who sell their elec-

IS THIS YOU? U?

.

LO L E H

ENHANCE.

s

i e m a My N

New Owner s s e n i s u B Connect.

H Engage.

Enhance.

B

www.PGChamber.bc.ca

The new Knowledge Garden will fill the area between the downtown library and the Civic Centre with a family-oriented area.

While more of the services at tronic versions to libraries for only the library are moving online, the a small number of uses, after which library is looking at moving some they have to be purchased again. things outside as well.

“A lot of libraries made some “There has been tremendous mistakes by moving too quickly into electronic books,” Wilson says. “A lot interest from the public in the Knowledge Garden,” Wilson says. of them lost a lot of books because “We’re looking at it as a way to they couldn’t afford to keep purencourage occupancy.” chasing them.

The garden will be in the space “We anticipated that. The public between the library and the Civic complains we don’t have enough Centre, and will be visible from the e-books, but that was deliberate on library through some of the larger our part. We wanted to make sure windows. we weren’t going to get caught.”

“We’d like to use it as an extenNow, he says, they’re going to sion of our Library on Location take a more aggressive approach to program,” Wilson says, “where we the e-systems. take a library van out to local parks.

“Our reference section is now a Right now, the largest room we have third or a quarter the size it was.

All that is now in the electronic sec- in the library can only hold 80 people. Using the garden for programs tion.” will allow us to have larger groups.”

The library is also moving in its And make no mistake about it, own direction when it comes to there is a definite garden aspect to electronic media. the Knowledge Garden.

“We’ve digitized 600 B.C. books, “It will be low-maintenance, which we now have on line. Those with a lot of northern plants. We’re are books that would never be digihoping to have a lot of indigenous tized by publishers. It’s also very plants.” cost-effective.”

Wilson says the garden will also Wilson says they are also finding serve as a historical and cultural there are new forms of illiteracy as artifact. they move to new forms of media.

“We want to have a lot of the “There are people who are complants and berries the First Nations puter illiterate, there are those who people used, as well as labels with troubles with numeracy, there are the aboriginal names on then.” those who are access-illiterate.

With construction started on Sky“Some of these people are homeLab in late february, the focus of less or have mental-health issues the library board has shifted to the and need to be able to access govgarden, Wilson says, and they hope ernment services, but more and to start landforming this year. more of those are moving online.”

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

25

Cougars look to youth for future ALISTAIR MCINNIS sports@pgfreepress.com

The Prince George Cougars have been down this road before.

But they’re hopeful it’ll lead to something special this time.

Once again in rebuilding mode, the Western Hockey League team finished the 2011-12 regular season with one of the youngest rosters in the 22-team league. They began the season hopeful they could compete with the top teams in the Western Conference. However, injuries and suspensions kept veterans out of the lineup. In late October, the Cougars discovered they wouldn’t get last year’s leading scorer back, as the Tampa Bay Lightning announced they’d keep Prince George minor hockey product Brett Connolly for a 10th game. Therefore, his National Hockey League entry-level threeyear contract came into effect this season.

Among the suspensions, of note was a 10-game penalty to forward Charles Inglis in October. A couple of months later, the Cougars announced they’d sent Inglis home to Saskatoon following a road game in Kamloops. He was dealt to the Red Deer Rebels for Daulton Siwak at the end of December.

Among the injuries, the most prominent was an early-season shoulder injury to forward Brock Hirsche that kept him out the majority of the campaign. With another returning forward, Nick Buonassisi, dealt to Lethbridge in October, an area which appeared to be a strength at the beginning turned into a weakness this past season.

As sellers at the Jan. 10 trade deadline, the Cougars lost more offence when they dealt offensive defenceman Martin Marincin to the Regina Pats for a package that included a first-round choice in the WHL Bantam Draft this spring. They went on to finish the season as the WHL’s lowest-scoring team, and, if not for the efforts of overage starting goalie Drew Owsley, would’nt have stayed in as many close games.

The Cougars completed this past campaign with seven 1995-born rookies in their lineup: forwards Chase Witala, Jake Mykitiuk, Alex Forsberg, Jordan Tkatch and Jarrett Fontaine; and defencemen Marc McNulty and Michael Mylchreest.

The youthful team managed to stay in the playoff hunt until the final weekend of the regular season. They were officially eliminated on March 16 and wrapped up the campaign the

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

Prince George Cougars defenceman Dan Gibb is one of the veterans being counted on to mentor a young team next season. following evening.

In an interview a few weeks before their season ended, Cougars general manager Dallas Thompson talked about the campaign.

“It’s been disappointing. The guys have battled. Certainly we turned ourselves from the potential of being a very old team – in this league, you win with your 19- and 20-year-olds – to a very young team,” he said.

“Certainly it’s not the plan we came in with, but it’s what we ended up with and our guys have battled here.

We’re in games, we’re in a playoff race and we need to get this group to the playoffs.”

The playoffs never happened, and now, the attention is shifting to next season.

“With those 16-year-old forwards, (offence) is a strength, but also you look at our back end here. We have Jesse Forsberg and Reid Jackson coming back as 19-year-olds, Gibby (Dan Gibb) will be a 20-year-old,” Thompson said. Potential rookies on next year’s team include defencemen Joseph Carvalho and Jordan Harris.

Linden Springer and Shane Pilling are also eligible to return. The list of defencemen on the roster at the end of the season was rounded out with Ricard Blidstrand, a Swedish import who joined the team in the Marincin deal, and overager Cody Carlson.

Forwards Greg Fraser, Hirsche and Campbell Elynuik could also return as overagers. Another forward, Spencer Asuchak, rounded out this year’s list of overagers.

Nothing is certain, but Thompson noted they expect Slovak import forward Marco Dano to report to the team this year. The Cougars selected

Dano 60th overall in the 2011 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft.

“Certainly we’re going to be looking to add a couple of guys that are in the 18, 19-year-old age group up front to supplement what we already have,”Thompson said. “Certainly we’re a little bit thin in the 17-yearold forwards, who will be 18 next

year. But with a guy like Dano, possibly drafting another European in that age group, we’ve got a couple of guys we’ve listed here who can come in and step in and play right now, so we think going forward, we’re going to have a pretty good mix here.”

Forwards Troy Bourke, Siwak and Caleb Belter will also look to fill bigger roles next season.

Then there’s the goalie situation.

The backup to Owsley this season, Devon Fordyce just turned 18 in January. A mix of prospects will also battle for roster spots, while trading for an experienced goalie can’t be ruled out.

Thompson also doesn’t foresee any major staff changes. Head coach Dean Clark is coming off the third season of a five-year contract he signed in 2009.

“We wanted to get away from making all of the changes. We made way too many changes,”Thompson said. “We need to have some consistency there and certainly the job that they’ve done. We’re not getting results we want here right now, but we’re working at it. We’re getting better and when these guys are 18 and 19, they’re going to be a heck of a hockey team here.”

TRUCKS & TRAILERS SALES • SERVICE • PARTS

www.premiumtruck.ca Prince George 1015 Great Street Prince George, BC V2N 2K8 250-563-0696 1-800-595-4411

Kelowna

103-2485 Ross Road West Kelowna, BC V1Z 1M2 250-769-7255 1-888-878-2511

Williams Lake

1100 S. Lakeside Dr. Williams Lake, BC V2G 3A6 250-398-7411 1-877-878-2516

Terrace

5408 Hwy 16 West Terrace, BC V8G 0C6 250-635-4938 1-800-663-7766

26 March 2012

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

OC TOBER 2012

T H E P L AY H O U S E I S YO U R V E N U E F O R : TRE LIVE THEA

RNERS

MUSIC

THE SOJOU

FILM SCREENI

NOVEMBER 2012

NGS

WEDDINGS S MEMORIAL MADISON

VIOLET

&

CONFERENCES

MARCH 2013

CADENC

E

W. ISIT WW V E S A E PL LO C AT E D AT

HOUSE P G P L AY

AY ! .C A TOD

T E L E P H O N E 250-563-8401 2833 Recreation Place, Prince George, BC

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

27

Barkerville planning birthday bash NATALIE CAMERON Free Press

One hundred and fifty years ago, a man by the name of Billy Barker ‘struck the lead’ near Williams Creek.

Despite criticisms he would never find gold in the area, Barker proceeded to try and on August 17, 1862 he began to pull large amounts of gold out of the mineshaft.

Almost overnight, the town of Barkerville was built to provide miners with entertainment and supplies.

Today the town is still standing and has been deemed a historical site and tourist attraction. It’s open to the public and ready to celebrate 150 years.

“It’s a particularly exciting year for us here in Barkerville,” said James Douglas, manager of visitor experience and public relations at Barkerville. “We’re very proud of the fact that we’re still here 150 years later.”

The Canadian National Gold Panning Championships will occur on Aug. 11 and 12 and will mark the main event in celebrating Barker’s gold strike and the start of the Cariboo Gold Rush.

Amateur and pro gold panners are invited to take part in a series of small gold panning championships. The final competition will be in the pro division and the winner will be announced “Canadian National Gold Panning Champion in the pro division and specifically ‘King of the Creek for Barkerville,’” Douglas said.

In addition, “anyone who comes with a valid free miner’s licence gets into Bark-

erville for free that weekend,” he added.

The championships will be held in conjunction with Discovery Day (a day to celebrate Barker’s gold discovery). Throughout the weekend, visitors can test their luck at gold panning, learn traditional mining techniques, take part in games and activities, and grab a slice of celebratory cake.

If you are unable to attend the celebrations, there are still many other special events to take part in.

“We’ve got a number of great special events with great track records which will be bigger and better than ever this year,” Douglas said. “We’ll be holding a gala event in Prince George, which coincides with a symposium that UNBC is holding specifically on the material culture of Barkerville.”

Barkerville and the University of Northern British Columbia are pairing up for the Barkerville – UNBC Academic Heritage Symposium Gala starting June 7. On June 8, a fundraising dinner will be held at UNBC. There will be a keynote address by the Honourable Iona Campagnolo, Barkerville’s inaugural honorary patron, and a sample of Barkerville’s traveling exhibit to China.

Other events to watch for this year include performances of Spirit of Cariboo Cameron by Barkerville veteran Dave Sayer on June 30 to July 2 and Sept. 1 to 3; celebrating Dominion Day (July 1) in Barkerville style; Goldfield Bakery’s ninth Annual Pie Eating Contest July 21; performers from ArtsWells on Aug. 3 to

Teresa MALLAM/Free Press

Barkerville Troupe performers Mr. Patullo, Miss Wilson and Judge Matthew Begbie take a breather before they go on stage at the Hats Off to the Chamber (of Commerce) fundraiser in Prince George.

6; the Cariboo Masonic Lodge No. 4 Annual Reunion Aug. 10 to 12; the second Annual Barkerville Cowboy and Drover Jubilee, Sept. 7 to 9; and the third annual Williams Creek Fire Brigade Day on Sept. 22.

In honour of Barkerville’s Chinese heritage, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival will occur Aug. 25. There will be activities all day including a lantern parade through Barkerville at dusk.

The Lung Duck Tong restaurant will also host a celebration banquet.

For the rest of your time spent at Barkerville, daily activities include tours of Barkerville, the commentary, and Chinatown.

One can also check out original structures of Barkerville including Cameron and Ames Blacksmith, the Cornish Water Wheel, Judge Begbie and Richfield Courthouse, the schoolhouse and Wendle House. Visi-

tors can test their luck panning for gold or go for a stagecoach ride

as well.

Barkerville is also home to live perfor-

mances.

Located in the fire brigade, the performances mirror the theatre of the gold rush days while educating visitors of Barkerville’s past. There are spring, summer and fall shows. The theatre opens its doors May 17, summer shows begin June 16, and fall showings start Sept.

6. The final show for Theatre Royal is Sept.

30.

This year visitors will not even have to drive themselves to Barkerville.

“We will be running a weekly shuttle from Quesnel that will pick people up,” Douglas said “It’s a reasonable cost for people who don’t want to bring their cars or who want to be green.”

Douglas said the shuttle will run long weekends as well.

Serving Our Community with Respect & Dignity FIRST MEMORIAL FUNERAL SERVICES LAKEWOOD CHAPEL A FULL CHOICE FUNERAL CENTRE Memorial Society provider www.lakewoodfh.com

1055 S. Ospika Blvd.

250-562-5915

30 Years in Prince George

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

28 March 2012

Enchainement forges new links TERESA MALLAM arts@pgfreepress.com

This year will bring a new focus and new passion for dance to a local dance company.

Award winning choreographer, producer, artistic director and studio owner Judy Russell of Judy Russell Enchainement Dance Centre is once again learning the ropes and filling in a vital part in the company left vacant by the passing last year of her mother and mentor, Bunny Murray.

“I’m finding stepping into her role a huge training curve for me,” said Russell. “As a group, we’ve set out to really rekindle the passion in teaching and learning dance. Everyone is reconnecting and reinvesting themselves. It’s very important for us to do that. It’s been an interesting year, one that has brought us together as a group.”

The great loss and transition has been made easier by the addition of a major talent, she said.

“To have Chris Larsen retire and become a ballet teacher for

Teresa MALLAM/Free Press

Senior dancers from Judy Russell Enchainement Dance Centre practice their moves for their Flash from the Past number for their dance recital in June.

AiMHi supports over 1,000 people who have special needs each year. We provide a wide range of services to infants, children, adults and families.

For more information call or visit our website: www.aimhi.ca

AiMHi is a Value Village C Charity Partner!!

We will accept your clothing, housewares donations for Value Village at AiMHi. Your donations equal vital dollars for AiMHi. 950 Kerry St., Prince George, BC V2M 5A3

Ph: 250-564-6408

Fax: 250-564-6801

www.aimhi.ca

Glover (in a show Love in Las us and then to step into that Vegas) have gone on to become new role has been sort of like famous – or famously employed a passing of the torch, so it has – in the world of dance. been wonderful for us.”

“I’m proud of all the dancLarsen is a big asset to the stuers,” said Russell who has a “soft dio, Russell said, and he is sure spot” for the younger dancers to inspire a whole new crop of coming up in the studio. dedicated dancers.

The junior school will be “Chris had the lead doing a performance of role in La Fille Mal Pinocchio this summer.

Gardee, a comic balFor the year-end dance let, and now he will be recital in June, Russell leading us in our own says the theme is Flash production. We’ve never As a group, to the Past, a nod to the had someone who actuwe’ve set dancer’s parents who ally starred in an interout to really play a key role in making national production of rekindle the sure their children get to the show and then come passion in dance class and supporthere for the same show, teaching ing them in their bid to so it’s very special.” and learning become better dancers.

Every year, Judy dance. Every Then, in July, Russell Russell Enchaineis reconand her talented team ment Dance Centre necting and take on The Producers, a has between 400 to 500 re-investing musical comedy by Mel students taking instructhemsevs.”

Brooks about a “floption in a wide variety - Judy prone” producer, Max, of dance disciplines.

The studio first opened Russell who teams up with timid accountant Leo Bloom in in 1979 and since then, a get-rich-quick scheme. thousands of dancAuditions for a mature cast ers have trained, performed on will begin in early April. For stage in recitals and shows, and competed in dance competitions. more information about Judy Russell Enchainement Dance Many of her alumni like Centre, visit www.judyrussellIsaac Smith (So You Think You presents.com.

Can Dance – Canada) and Eric

‘‘

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

29

New RCMP centre long time coming DELYNDA PILON newsroom@pgfreepress.com

The need for a new RCMP building was identified about 18 years ago, and that need will finally be met when the state-of-the-art structure on Fourth and Victoria is completed.

Greg Anderson, civic facilities manager with the City of Prince George, said the new facility will be an investment in the downtown, not only because it will help beautify the area, but by its location will keep employees in the core.

“It is a relatively large office building. It’s important to keep it downtown,” he said.

He added the new building will offer a huge improvement in working conditions.

The structure, which will be built to LEED standards, will offer natural lighting wherever possible, paint that is not very odorous and specially selected carpets.

“Everything is chosen carefully for the atmosphere,” Anderson said.

When it comes to heating and cooling the building, the heat will come from the district energy system. They are working on a ground water cooling system.

A solar hot water system will be placed on the roof and a southfacing metal wall will preheat air as it comes into the building via solar power.

“It will use 64 per cent less energy than a comparable space,” Anderson said.

And it will be about double the size of the existing building.

Architects have remained cognizant of the wood theme the city has taken on, so wood features will be prominent throughout the building.

Glue-lam beams and columns will be used as well and a lot of wood and glass will be used on the exterior of the building.

“The design is architecturally pleasing. It will be very nice looking and set a nice standard,” Anderson said.

The project, thus far on budget, is set to be completed in late 2013.

Renderings submitted

The new RCMP building will sit at a central location in downtown Prince George.

THE 2012 FORESTER

Road conditions may vary. Your confidence won’t.

2012 Forester C.5X

Full-time All-Wheel Drive delivers maximized traction at all times.

F STANDARD FEATURES: • Symmetrical AWD • Vehicle Dynamics Control system and Traction Control system • 170HP BOXER engine • 5-speed manual transmission with Hill Holder system • Heated front seats • Driver and front passenger front- and side-impact airbags • AC • 8.7 inches of ground clearance • And more.

The only manufacturer with 2012 IIHS Top Safety Picks for all models.V ALG - Residual Value Award.

Best mainstream brandx

Lease/Finance

Well equipped

0.9%

$ 28,015*

24 mos., as low as **

plus AWD from

*Model shown is a 2012 Forester 2.5X 5MT (CJ1 XO) with MSRP of $28,015 including freight & PDI ($1,595), documentation fees ($395) and battery and tire tax ($30). License, taxes, insurance and registration extra. **0.9% fi nance and lease rates available on all new 2012 Forester models for a 24-month term. Financing and leasing programs available through Toyota Credit Canada Inc. on approved credit. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. **Offer valid until Apr. 3, 2012. VRatings of “Good” are the highest rating awarded for 40-mph frontal offset, 31-mph side-impact and 20-mph rear-impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) (www.iihs.org). A “Good” rating obtained in all three crash tests plus a “Good” rating in new roof strength testing and the availability of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (Vehicle Dynamics Control) achieves a 2012 Top Safety Pick. XBased on ALG’s 2012 Residual Value Award for any mainstream brand.

590 Carney St., Prince George

Ph: 250-564-3300

1-877-569-3300 Fax: 250-564-3337 e-mail: finance@5thcarneysubaru.com

30 March 2012

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

E.Fry Place lets seniors live well TERESA MALLAM arts@pgfreepress.com

Home sweet home.

Elizabeth Fry Place, a new $6-million apartment building for seniors, will mean affordable housing in the downtown area for 36 residents.

Located at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Quebec Street, the striking complex includes dozens of features designed to make life easier for people 55 and over who can live independently.

For Kathi Heim, executive director, Prince George and District Elizabeth Fry Housing Society, the new housing complex is a great source of pride and achievement.

With tradespeople still working on site March 15, Heim beamed when told the elevator in the multi-level building was now operational.

“We put a lot of work into this.

We looked at a lot of plans. We tried to think of everything. We want to set our seniors up for success, so we’ve considered only those who for now are able to live independently – they’re allowed to have a housekeeper or care aid person come in.”

Heim said the project has

Teresa MALLAM/Free Press

Elizabeth Fry Housing Society executive director Kathi Heim stands by the pergola in the courtyard of the nearly finished apartment building for seniors. received lots of attention.

“We’ve gone through about 100

applications so far and we’re making home visits and will soon be able to offer selected people the units.”

The first tenants will likely turn the key to their new home in Elizabeth Fry Place in early May. Seniors 55 and over with an annual income of $26,000 or less will be considered for tenancy and their rent will be calculated as 30 per cent of their income, Heim said. Rents will probably range from $350 to $650 in a mix that makes it viable for Elizabeth Fry to meet its operating costs.

There is parking space in the basement level and room to park scooters. Four-legged friends are also welcome. Residents are allowed to have one small pet. Units are between 650 and 700 square feet and painted in neutral, warm earth tones with all-linoleum floors (nonskid floors in the bathroom) and no carpeting anywhere in the building.

“People can bring in area rugs if they wish but we chose flooring that is easy to maintain and allows walkers and wheelchairs to go across them easily and will be good for people with allergies. We think of this living as ‘aging in place’ and we’ve tried to think ahead to the time when our tenants may be using walking aids to get around.”

A few corner units are designed for wheelchair accessibility with lower sinks, stoves, countertops,

light switches, intercom and floor to ceiling shower stall. (All the units have larger bathrooms.) Outside there’s a beautiful courtyard area with a pergola. Landscaping will be started in late May. “There will be bird feeders and hanging baskets that tenants are welcome to take care of and there will be garden areas as well,” said Heim.

Throughout the entire building, energy-efficient windows, safety precautions and the latest in “green” materials have been used. Units are equipped with fire and smoke detectors that also have visual warning lights so hearing- impaired people can be alerted. Washers and dryers, garbage and recycle bins are on each floor.

“If we have to evacuate for any reason, we have an emergency plan in place with the nearby Day’s Inn which can accommodate the tenants,” said Heim.

The building is located close to bus stops, community swimming pool, Two Rivers Gallery, Prince George Library and the Civic Centre Plaza as well as downtown shopping and restaurants.

The complex will be managed by the Elizabeth Fry Society. It was built due to the efforts of a partnership between the province, the federal government, the City of Prince George and Elizabeth Fry Society.

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

Wiesner looks back on life in the church DELYNDA PILON

taught theology in seminary, first at St. Charles Scholasticate in Battleford, then at Newman Theological College in Edmonton.

After a lifetime of service, 19 years From 1984 until 1990 he was the of which were spent as bishop of the Provincial Superior of the Oblates of Prince George diocese, Bishop GerSt. Mary’s Province in Saskatoon. ald Wiesner is retiring.

In 1991 he went back to Newman Prince George sits in the centre and in December 1992 he of a large diocese, one was appointed to his curthat stretches from Fort rent post as bishop.

St. John to the Queen There have been many Charlotte Islands. The highlights and blessings bishop’s role, Wiesner for Wiesner throughsaid, is one of leadership, out those years, but the guidance, support and greatest for him was the encouragement. opportunity to meet two “I suppose I would popes, John Paul II and use those descriptors as Benedict XVI. being key,” he said. “As “It’s humbling. They well as shepherding.”

Gerald Wiesner are very human, very perThe role of a bishop, - Bishop retiring sonal, very supportive,” he added, is really threesaid Wiesner, who has fold: to teach, to govern been to Rome and the and to sanctify.

Vatican many times.

A lot of the work a bishop does is “It’s interesting. I’ve never been through the Fathers that lead each one to really want to go places just to parish, however the church is a comgo places.” munity, and as such Wiesner is availHowever, Wiesner was called to be able to everyone. a member of the Synod of Bishops “If someone felt they were not twice, where delegates from bishbeing responded to, I could say ops, first from all the Americas and the bishop would be a source of second from all the world, meet the recourse,” he said. “A bishop should Holy Father. be very approachable whether it’s When it comes to the blessings a basic catechism question or quesreceived from a life of service, each tions about life. I suppose I would be day Wiesner is grateful for all he has. seen by many as a spiritual leader, “I belong to a religious community but we also deal with temporal so I usually had the support of that needs.” community in my life and ministry. I Wiesner said he came into the have always had a home. I’ve never diocese 19 years ago with two goals worried much about material things. in mind.

I didn’t have to.

“The first is collegiality and the “I think my greatest sense is one of second is subsidiarity. I really tried gratitude. The life basically is serving to function under those two. To me the first always means working along others and serving God. My basic with others. The second means allow- reaction to that is gratitude, and petitioning to do it well.” ing those who are able to make the What a bishop does upon retirdecisions make them. Don’t interfere. ing is left up to him for the most If the parish can make the decision, part, though the church encourages let the parish make the decision. I them to return to their community think I’ve tried hard to work under to retire. Wiesner will follow that those two basic principles and I’m encouragement and return to the grateful for all the help I’ve had.”

Oblate community in Saskatoon.

Wiesner said there was no great But retirement, for someone who revelation that led him to turn to the has spent a life in the service of othpriesthood. Rather he was raised ers, actually just means providing by good Catholic parents in a good more service, but perhaps in a differCatholic family, taught well in his ent way. youth. In high school he went to a Wiesner would like to continue to boarding school ran by priests, something that had a great impact on him. teach, preach and possibly work at a mission. He will likely help in other “I came to realize that I did have some gifts and I probably should use parishes and may even act as an aide to another bishop. those gifts to serve other people.”

“I would like to carry on in as Wiesner was ordained a priest in much as I am able,” he said.

Saskatchewan and for 20 years he

newsroom@pgfreepress.com

Welcomes

RV’ERS

to Prince George Easy turn around and plenty of parking Full service shop with fully qualified technicians 4000 sq ft parts department, the largest in the North Friendly and Knowledgeable staff

#

We are the

Jayco Dealer

IN CANADA!

Toll Free:

1.866.963.3380

7818 Highway 97 South, Prince George, BC www.happytrailsrv.ca

31

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

32 March 2012

People

Thank you Prince George

helping

People

and area for your incredible support over the last year.

Your generosity and support have helped our community tremendously.

Crisis Centre for Northern BC

www.pgymca.com

250-563-1214 www.northernbccrisissuicide.ca

www.cancer.ca The Prince George & District

ELIZABETH FRY SOCIETY 1575 - 5th Avenue, Prince George

250-563-7305 www.phoenixhouse.ca

bcpara.org

1110 4th Avenue, Prince George BC 250-564-4422

(#,''#)))# $,*++%

# # ! " ! "

Northern HIV and Health Education Society

pgdeaf@telus.net

250-564-0224

www.volunteerpg.com National Volunteer Week Apr. 15-21

250-562-1172 www.positivelivingnorth.ca

Creating educational experiences to meet your learning needs!

Contact: Mary at 250-964-8558

Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

www.mssociety.ca/princegeorge

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

33

Excalibur sharpens dance skills TERESA MALLAM arts@pgfreepress.com

Between expansions to Excalibur Theatre Arts Dance Studio and expansion of their dance family – more space means more new dancers – Bonnie and Dave Leach have found their time stretched.

It may be a frantic pace but the world of dance is a passion they both share.

Dave is an actor/producer who handles much of the business side of Excalibur. Bonnie – who with husband Dave is co-owner/ operator of Excalibur – is also its artistic director, dance instructor and creative force and choreographer behind many of the top dance numbers seen on stage during recitals and competitions.

Bonnie herself is a former dancer who’s won national awards for her Highland dancing.

Now she will get to see a whole new generation of talented Highland dancers from her own studio when they perform in Scotland next summer.

“We’ll be getting sponsors and doing fundraising for the trip.

Our Robbie Burns Night helps ent levels and ages. support the dancers and we’ll Will there be upcoming shows? have other events during the year In the past, Excalibur has put on to make sure the dancers get over such notable musical theatre prothere for 2013,” said Bonnie. “This ductions as Miss Saigon, trip is a great opportuHair, Cats and Sweeney nity for them to go to Todd but for the next little four or five Highland while at least, the comGames and to compete pany will focus on “raising in the land where it all the bar” for its dance stubegan.” dents.

The dance adventure “With the studio growWith the stu- ing so much and our gives the dancers somedio growing thing to work towards greater focus on our stuso much and dents and their training, and look forward to, she our greater said. Right now though, we don’t have time to focus on our devote to doing any major the focus is on classes studentes and students improvshows this year but we and their ing on their moves in all certainly miss it. It does training, dance disciplines. take a lot of work and volwe don’t “April 14 and 15, we unteer hours to pull it off.” have time are having troupe audiThe revamped facilities to devote to tions for our competitive on Ogilvie have meant doing any dance program. In May, new levels – literally – for our competitive dancers major shows recreational dancers who in all dance disciplines this year, but now have more, much bigare off to the Great we certainly ger and modern spaces Canadian Dance Chalmiss it.” in which to improve their lenge in Kelowna, May 9 - Bonnie techniques and to take to 13.”

Leach their dance skills to the All the company’s next level. dancers, recreational and competPre-registration starts on May itive, will be performing on stage 1 for the fall. For more informaat Vanier Hall in the Year End tion call Excalibur Theatre Arts Recital on June 9. There are four Company at 250-564-6326 or visit recitals during the day for differexcaliburarts@shaw.ca.

‘‘

A junior ballet class (four year olds) in rehearsals at Excalibur Theatre Arts Company studio.

Teresa MALLAM/ Free Press

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

34 March 2012

TNW reaches a new stage of growth JEREMY STEWART Special to Outlook

The 2011-12 season at Theatre North West has so far been an exciting adventure in creativity and collaboration – another year of successful productions, and another chapter in the ongoing story of the theatre’s leadership transition.

Under the leadership of artistic producer Samantha MacDonald, and with an expanded roster of visiting artists, the TNW team has continued to learn, work, and grow together.

Theatre North West began from jottings on the back of an envelope, becoming the largest arts organization in the northern two-thirds of British Columbia in less than 20 years. This was thanks to the hard work, talent, and guts of founders Ted Price and Anne Laughlin, who continue to make important contributions, primarily in consultative roles.

“Theatre North West has always had an impeccable reputation in the theatre community,” says MacDonald. “The theatre has long been known for producing work of the very highest quality and being wonderfully welcoming, so when the

Teresa MALLAM/Free Press

The crew at TNW: Stephanie Larsen, Samantha MacDonald, Catherine Cantin, Dorothy Reimer, Jeremy Stewart, Michael Groenenberg, Peter Vogelaar, Torre Kelley. atre artists from around Canada, this opportunity came to be a part of the now includes directors and scenic organization I jumped at it.” designers, jobs that were done in the The 11-12 season brought many past by Lewis. new faces to TNW – directors and As always, the heart and soul of designers from across the country, TNW is its wonderfully loyal and all of whom knew the theatre by enthusiastic community. As its reputation and were very excited extended family of sponsors, donors, to be a part of the great work being done here. While the staff has always volunteers, and patrons has grown with the theatre, they have shared been supplemented by visiting the-

their time, resources, experiences and insights, playing an immense, collaborative part in the theatre’s success.

This season, from the hilarious joyride of Becky’s New Car to the slap-shot success of Home Ice and the intrigue of The Clockmaker, audiences have found a variety of entertainment to enjoy.

And the fun doesn’t stop there – next up is Neil Simon’s classic comedy, Brighton Beach Memoirs.

Directed by founding artistic director Ted Price, this piece is quintessentially TNW, with its close examination of family issues and relationships, a young man’s search for identity, and the challenges faced during hard economic times.

Throw in Simon’s trademark humour and Brighton Beach promises to be a big hit. It is also TNW’s pleasure to welcome two local youngsters, Grace Waldie and Andrea Pearce, who will be sharing the role of Laurie.

What’s in store for next season at TNW? Well, as they did for the current season, Lewis and MacDonald have been hard at work together programming the play choices for 2012-13.

COUNTDOWN IS ON!

ONLY

8,500 Tickets Printed!

FAST APPROACHING

SELL-OUT!

G t V Greater Value l att a R Reasonable bl C Cost! COMPLETELY RENOVATED! Beautiful inviting setting. Come and experience our new look.

Comfortable Extra Large Rooms Full Kitchen Suites Available Affordable Rates Complimentary Coffee in Rooms

FREE Wireless Internet Free Phones Parking with Winter Plug-ins Commercial Rates

Restaurant on Site 24 Hour Desk Refrigerators in All Rooms Rooms with Microwaves Available

Moments from Shopping, Restaurants, Attractions, Events & Services 1630 E. Central St. (Hwy 97) Next to Daddyo’s Pizza & Ribs

PRINCE GEORGE BC V2M 3C2

Toll Free: 1-800-663-3290 Tel: 250-563-3671 • Email: frontdesk@canadasbestvalueinn-princegeorge.com www.canadasbestvalueinn-princegeorge.com

CLEAN, QUIET LOCATION S START OM at

*

Book our Suite with JETTED TUB!

1915 3rd Avenue • 250-563-7106 1-888-566-6333 • info@economyinn.ca

valued at

$

24/7

Grand Prize Draw date: April 15, 2012

365,000

TICKET CKET HOTLIN HOTLINE 250-962-4946 (IWIN) Grand Prize

*Plus Taxes.

Subject to change at any time.

D L O 6% S

OPEN 10am-6pm 7 Days A Week For Viewing TICKETS $100 each 2656 Links Drive, Prince George A LUXURIOUS 1501 sq.ft, SHOW HOME

Toll Free 1-888-962-4946 (IWIN)

ING

$60

RO

Special S i lR Rates… t

Available for Out-Of-Town Medical Treatment Patients or Family Members of Hospital Patients.

Tickets available at:

ALL TIME RECORD SETTING PACE IN TICKET SALES!!

We Are ¶ ¶ 8500 TICKETS

1501 sq. ft. home by Scheck Construction located in the Aberdeen Glen Subdivision, Prince George. (including HST & Land) Includes Kitchen Appliances!!

) Canadian Tire ) Spruceland News ) Pine Centre Mall ) Hart Drugs ) Evergreen Pharmacies ) Northern Hardware ) Central Builders’ ) Spruce Kings Office 250-564-1747 and at the Show Home

Winners name will be posted on line and rules available at www.sprucekings.bc.ca Sales cutoff is at 7pm on draw dates.

Draw date is at 8pm for all draws.

Here Don’t Delay!

e of As ess Tim Pr er… ov

9

Chances are 1 in 8,500 (total tickets for sale) to win a grand prize.

BC Gaming Event Licence #37534

Know your limit, play within it.

Prince George

Problem Gambling Help Line 1-888-795-6111 www.bcresponsiblegambling.ca

19+ to play!

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

35

Spruce Kings set for Mainland move ALISTAIR MCINNIS sports@pgfreepress.com

What a difference a year makes.

Last in the league in 2010-11, the Prince George Spruce Kings saw their regularseason points total more than double. Not even a reduction in B.C. Hockey League playoff teams from 14 to eight could stop the team from returning to the playoffs. Finishing with a regular-season record of 33 wins, 21 losses, two ties and four overtime defeats (33-21-2-4), the Spruce Kings enjoyed their most successful season since the 2006-07 Royal Bank Cup-hosting campaign.

The Spruce Kings finished the regular season third in the eight-team Interior Conference with 72 points, four below the second-place Merritt Centennials (34-18-2-6) and one above the fourth-place Chilliwack Chiefs (33-22-2-3).

Before the playoffs began, the highlight to the team’s season came in its final regular season game. They defeated the league’s top team, the Interior Conference-leading Penticton Vees (54-4-0-2) by a 5-2 score, putting an end to a record 42-game winning streak in the process. The victory came in front of a sellout Coliseum crowd of 2,112 and gave the Spruce Kings third place, in turn preventing a semifinal encounter between the two teams.

This year’s regular season marked a significant improvement over their record a year ago, when they were one of only two teams in the league to miss the playoffs. They finished with only 33 points at 13-40-1-6.

The Spruce Kings were boosted by the

efforts of top scorer Paul De Jersey, who won the Brett Hull Trophy as top scorer with 41 goals and 57 assists for 98 points in 59 games.

Having head coach Dave Dupas for a full year also helped. Dupas was hired as an interim to fill the position for the second half of the 2010-11 season, after previous head coach and general manager Ed Dempsey was dismissed in November 2010.

Last summer, Kurt Walsten was brought into the organization as an assistant coach and assistant GM, joining an assistant coaching staff that includes Tom Bohmer and Jason Garneau.

The Cougars will be looking to fill holes up front this offseason. The team’s top four scorers this season won’t be back in the fall. De Jersey (Providence), Jujhar Khaira (Michigan Tech) and Michael Colantone (UMass-Lowell) have secured NCAA Division 1 scholarships. Jarryd Ten Vaanholt is a 1991born overager ineligible to return in the fall.

“Those aren’t guys that you’re going to be able to go out and recruit. Those are guys who you’re going to have to acquire through trades or acquisitions,” general manager Mike Hawes said. “A guy like (defenceman) Ben Matthews, who’s come in, was a tremendous acquisition for us in the summer and our team captain.”

Matthews and fellow overage blue liner Ben Woodley are the only defencemen ineligible to return.

“Trevor Esau is probably going to be back and be a leader, not only on the defence, but within the locker room and the whole team there, so that’ll be nice,” Hawes noted. “Chase

Free Press file photo

All of the Fitzgerald triplets – Leo, left, Gerry and Myles – will be back for the Spruce Kings next season, and are expected to be the top line.

Golightly is eligible to be back, Skylar Pacheco, Cody Bardock, Latrell Charleson. With those five D men eligible to return next year, the defence looks really good.”

Looking ahead, another boost to the Spruce Kings is the expected return of the Fitzgerald triplets (Myles, Gerry and Leo). The Fitzgeralds were the team’s most improved line, and give the team an adequate top line for the 2012-13 season. Hawes said they’ve turned into 200foot players who they can use in every situation.

As for the goaltending situation, Ty Swabb and Kirk Thompson are 1992-born players, meaning they’d each be an overager next season.

A challenge the Spruce Kings will face next season is adjusting to a much different schedule by switching conferences. During the BCHL semi-annual governors meeting in Richmond in January, the league passed a motion which sees the Spruce Kings and Chilliwack Chiefs switch from the Interior Conference to the Coastal Conference’s Mainland Divi-

sion. The Spruce Kings and Chiefs will play in a five-team division rounded out by the Langley Rivermen, Surrey Eagles and Coquitlam Express.

The move means the Spruce Kings will only

play two games, once at home and once on the road, against each of the Interior’s six remaining teams: The Vees, Centennials, Vernon Vipers, Salmon Arm SilverBacks, Westside Warriors and Trail Smoke

Eaters.

The Kings continue to be boosted by the continued support of the Show Home Lottery, which they expected to be another sellout this year with the maximum of 8,500 tickets sold.

Working Hard to Ensure a Strong Economic Future for Northern BC.

Shirley BOND

MLA Prince George-Valemount Office: ���� �th Ave. Prince George, BC Toll Free: � ��� ���–���� Phone: ��� ���–���� Shirley.Bond.MLA@leg.bc.ca www.shirleybondmla.bc.ca

Pat BELL

MLA Prince George-Mackenzie Office: ����, ��� Central St. East Prince George, BC Toll Free: � ��� ���–���� Phone: ��� ���–���� Pat.Bell.MLA@leg.bc.ca www.patbellmla.bc.ca

36

Prince George - OUTLOOK - Free Press

March 2012

A place for books and company TERESA MALLAM arts@pgfreepress.com

There’s a philosophy that comes with helping budding artists in the community achieve their true potential and providing an intimate performing space for local and out of town established acts.

Jim Brinkman, owner of Books and Company on Third Avenue, plays host to a year-round variety of events in the bookstore, upstairs Artspace and lower-level Cafe Voltaire coffee shop (a lower level provides meeting spaces) with art exhibits, concerts, open mike night, book launches, speakers and special events.

“I really just wanted this place to be a community centre where people can drop in and enjoy themselves. I’m from Smithers so people from there often drop in and leave messages and I pass them on. We’re like a family. I remember when CBC radio ran public messages on air so people could communicate, like soand-so is coming to town, you can pick them up at the ferry.”

That kind of goodwill and community service appeals to Brinkman.

Teresa MALLAM/Free Press

Books and Company owner Jim Brinkman checks out some fresh baking for Cafe Voltaire with staffer Lou Dickson.

Call him old-fashioned but Brinkman believes in the time honoured tradition of supporting the arts to make a community richer and

being a hubbub of activity, a meeting place, for people from all walks of life. On their website, the bookstore is called Prince George’s ‘liv-

Experience over 800,000 gallons of water!

Four Seasons Leisure Pool Prince George Aquatic Centre Host city for the 2015 Canada Winter Games

w w w. p r i n c e g e o r g e . c a

ing room’ and Brinkman wants the atmosphere to reflect that.

Even though he has a young family and very busy life planning, promoting and bringing in new acts and special events for the book store, Cafe Voltaire and Artspace, he also devotes time to arranging for new authors and speakers to be introduced to local audiences and providing space for new artists to hone their talents in front of a live crowd.

Menu items change in Cafe Voltaire to keep life interesting, and upgrades and improvements to the building itself are ongoing (last year the stage area in Cafe Voltaire got a new feature wall). The latest improvements are in Artspace where additional stage lighting has been installed.

“Now we can control the mood,” joked Brinkman. “We have a controller who can work with the lights to select the right kind of lighting for the show and create an interesting atmosphere.”

For more information and calendar on upcoming events at Books and Company, 1685 Third Ave., go to their website at www.booksandcompany.ca.

Learn more about health services provided by Northern Health . . .

Northern Health Connections Â&#x2021; 0HGLFDO WUDYHO VHUYLFH SURJUDP Â&#x2021; 6DPH GD\ VHUYLFH Â&#x2021; /RQJ GLVWDQFH URXWHV

DQG PRUH

Aboriginal Health

Public Health

Â&#x2021; +HDOWK LPSURYHPHQW FRPPLWWHHV Â&#x2021; 3DWLHQW OLDLVRQ Â&#x2021; +HDOWK UHVRXUFHV

DQG PRUH

Â&#x2021; ,PPXQL]DWLRQ FOLQLFV Â&#x2021; 6SHHFK ODQJXDJH DQG KHDULQJ VHUYLFHV Â&#x2021; )RRG DQG GULQNLQJ ZDWHU VDIHW\ Â&#x2021; &RPPXQLW\ &DUH /LFHQVLQJ Â&#x2021; 0HQ¶V +HDOWK

DQG PRUH

the northern way of caring

Facilities Â&#x2021; 2YHU WZR GR]HQ DFXWH FDUH VLWHV Â&#x2021; ORQJ WHUP FDUH IDFLOLWLHV Â&#x2021; 3XEOLF KHDOWK XQLWV Â&#x2021; 2I¿FHV SURYLGLQJ VSHFLDOL]HG VHUYLFHV

DQG PRUH

Seniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Â&#x2021; 'HPHQWLD UHVRXUFHV Â&#x2021; /LIHOLQH HPHUJHQF\ UHVSRQVH Â&#x2021; +RPH DQG &RPPXQLW\ &DUH

DQG PRUH

Mental Health and Addictions Â&#x2021; 3UHYHQWLRQ Â&#x2021; 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ Â&#x2021; (DWLQJ GLVRUGHUV

DQG PRUH

For all your health needs, and for more information on our many programs visit us:

www.northernhealth.ca

THANK YOU PRINCE GEORGE! Thanks to your support, Northland Chrysler Jeep Dodge is:

Selling Dealer in Canada Dec. 2011 Selling Truck Dealer in Canada 2011 Volume Dealer in British Columbia - 2011 I truly appreciate all your support,

Brent Marshall

NEW !

2012 RAM C/CAB

$17,792!

TOTAL PRICE

Stk# 12Q14950

The

SALE CONTINUES! OVER

2012 RAM

TOTAL PRICE

NEW !

$14,780!

Stk# 12R14331

%

50

OFF!

Donating over

$2 MILLION DOLLARS to local health care!

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

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. 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 Chrysler Retail Incentive Programs are announced. See Dealer for details. Ad expires 31.03.12 D#30541