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ICE WHERE WE WANT IT
Outdoor Ice Oval deals with bad weather too Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com Monday was a good day to be working on the ice. Four volunteers were out at the Outdoor Ice Oval behind the CN Centre around 9 a.m., planning the morning’s activity. Jeremy Campbell makes his way down to the ice surface to take a look at the conditions. “You can see people have been skating on it,” he says. “There’s some ice dust that we’ll want to clean off.” A quick look tells him all he really needed to know to start planning the morning maintenance. “We’ll go over it with the broom to get rid of the ice dust, then use the water truck to put another layer on it. It still looks pretty thin in some spots.” It’s been a tough year for the Oval, which has yo-yoed between being open and closed as the weather changes. The original official opening in December was pushed back because of the city employees’ one-day strike, and large dumps of snow and above-freezing temperatures also made it difficult to keep the surface useable. “Now,” Campbell says, “we can hopefully get it ready to go for the rest of the winter – and this year, who knows how long that will be.” Dave Sharcott joins Campbell on the ice. Campbell explains the ideas he had for the morning, and gives Sharcott some advice on how to use the brushing machine. “I’m still just learning,” Sharcott says with a smile. “Jeremy’s the boss.” Back up in the parking area, both head over to the “Beef Barn,” which is a former livestock facility now used to store the ice oval equipment. Barry Bertrand pulls up by the barn and greets the others. “You want me to do the brushing?” he asks Campbell. Campbell says yes, but that he wants Sharcott to get some experience on the machine as well. Inside the barn sat the equipment used to keep the ice oval in shape. The largest piece was the water truck, with a pair of smaller machines on either side. One of them had a brush attached to the front, while the other had a blade for clearing larger amounts of snow. “We’ve also got a snowblower attachment that we can switch in if we have to,” Campbell says.
As Campbell works on getting the water truck ready use at the rink.” to go and Sharcott heads back to the oval to clear things It was just another day at the oval for the four. like tables and signs out of the way, Bertrand gets the “A lot of times,” Campbell says, “there’s only three of brushing machine fired up. us, so having the fourth man is a luxury. We’re always As he starts to roll out of the barn, Lyle Dickieson looking for volunteers.” arrivs. He checks with Campbell to see if it might be He says the crews who work in the morning (his crew worthwhile switching the snowblower on to the bladed does Monday, Wednesday and Friday, another one does machine. Tuesday and Thursday) are mainly retired people. Campbell asks Bertrand to hold on for a second while “We’ll all worked with equipment at some point, so they examine that option, but in the end, they decide to we’re familiar with it.” go with the brushing, a scrape with the small Zamboni The volunteers in the evenings and on weekends are they had donated a couple of years ago, and then a layer usually people who are still employed. of water. Bertrand resumes his ride towards the oval, getting a salute from Campbell as he passes. “He used to drive a tank,” Campbell explains, “so I always salute him when he goes by.” Dickieson heads off to the small building attached to the CN Centre where the Zamboni was housed, and Campbell drives the water truck to the same location to pick up a couple of pieces of equipment. “There are a couple of things we like to keep in the heated room,” he says as he Allan WISHART/Free Press climbs back into the truck. Jeremy Campbell, left, and Dave Sharcott get ready to load Bertrand is, by now, brushing the snow off the ice, and is joined by Dickieson in the the Outdoor Ice Oval water truck from a hydrant on the Exhibition Grounds on Monday morning. Zamboni scraping the surface. Campbell takes the water truck to one of the hydrants near the “Then we’ve got the volunteers who keep the equipoval, and is joined by Sharcott to hook up and get a load ment maintained, make sure we have enough propane, of water. organize the events. “The city has been great in working with us,” Camp“There’s a lot of work here, and it’s all done by volunbell says, adjusting an anti-backup valve on the hose. teers.” “This valve is designed to make sure that if we overfill Anyone interested in volunteering at the Outdoor Ice the truck, the water won’t go back into the system they Oval can e-mail mail@pgoval.ca for more information.
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Prince George -
Friday, January 10, 2014
NEWS - Free Press
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Threats get time in jail presents… Winner of 11 International Awards
Community Alert WA N T E D C Crime Stoppers is asking the ppublic’s assistance in locating the ffollowing person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As oof 0900hrs this 8th day of January 22014, Blaine Wilson JOHN (B: 11991-02-04) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for FAIL TO C Blaine Wilson COMPLY WITH PROBATION. JOHN is JOHN described as a First Nations male, 168 cm or 5’6” 168 cm or 5’06” tall and weighs 70 70 kg or 155 lbs. kg or 155 lbs. JOHN has black hair and brown eyes. JOHN should be considered violent.
WA N T E D Crime Stoppers is asking the public’s assistance in locating the following person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As of 0900hrs this 8th day of January 2014, Bennett Jardine GALBRAITH (B: 1961-09-17) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for Bennett Jardine UTTERING THREATS. GALBRAITH is GALBRAITH described as a Caucasian male, 163 163 cm or 5’4” cm or 5’4” tall and weighs 95 kg 95 kg or 210 lbs. or 210 lbs. GALBRAITH has blonde hair and blue eyes. GALBRAITH should be considered violent.
In Provincial Court in Prince George on Oct. 24: Douglas Gibbs was found guilty of failing to comply with a condition of an undertaking or recognizance, sentenced to one day in jail, placed on probation for 15 months and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Douglas W. Gibbs was found guilty of uttering threats and mischief, sentenced to 27 days in jail, placed on probation for 15 months, assessed a victim surcharge of $100 and prohibited from possessing firearms for five year. Neeraj Kumar was found guilty of uttering threats and failing to comply with a condition of an undertaking or recognizance and sentenced to five days in jail. Linda L. Langthorne was found guilty of theft of property with a value less than $5,000,placed on probation for one year, fined 15 cents and assessed a victim
surcharge of five cents. Langthorne was also found guilty of failing to attend court, sentenced to one day in jail,fined 15 cents and assessed a victim surcharge of five cents. William K. Litteljohn was found guilty of possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition, sentenced to 1,071 days in jail, assessed a victim surcharge of $200 and received a lifetime prohibition on the possession of firearms. Littlejohn was also found guilty of break and enter, sentenced to one year in jail, assessed a victim surcharge of $200 and received a lifetime prohibition on the possession of firearms. Littlejohn was also found guilty of possession of counterfeit money, sentenced to two months in jail and assessed a victim surcharge of $20. Littlejohn was also found guilty of resisting a peace officer, sentenced to 30 days in jail and assessed a
victim surcharge of $200. Matthew R.S. Lozon was found guilty of mischief and failing to comply with a probation order, sentenced to 52 days in jail, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Barbara M. Weselowsky was found guilty of fraud, received a conditional sentence of six months, was placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. In Provincial Court in Prince George on Oct. 25: Gerald S. James was found guilty of being unlawfully in a dwelling-house, sentenced to 94 days in jail, placed on probation for two years and received a lifetime prohibition on the possession of firearms. James was also found guilty of uttering threats, sentenced to 34 days in jail and placed on probation for two years. James was also found guilty
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WA N T E D Crime Stoppers is asking the public’s assistance in locating tthe following person who is wanted on a British Columbia w wide warrant. As of 0900hrs this w 8th day of January 2014, Brandon Steven VLCHEK (B: 1990-06-05) is wanted on a British Columbia Brandon Steven wide warrant for THEFT UNDER VLCHEK $5000. VLCHEK is described as a 178 cm or 5’10” Caucasian male, 178 cm or 5’10” 57 kg or 126 lbs tall and weighs 57 kg or 126 lbs. VLCHEK has brown hair and brown eyes.
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of failing to comply with a probation order, sentenced to four days in jail and placed on probation for two years. In Provincial Court in Prince George on Oct. 28: Ronlad D. Collin was found guilty of assault, received a conditional sentence of two months and was placed on probation for 10 months. Michael J. Fisher was found guilty of uttering threats, sentenced to 21 days in jail to be served on an intermittent basis, placed on probation for two years, assessed a victim surcharge of $50 and prohibited from possessing firearms for 10 years. Sabina H. Haskell was found guilty of theft of property with a value less than $5,000, received a conditional sentence of 21 days and was placed on probation for five months. Trevor J. Kurjata was found guilty of mischief, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Theodore A.J. Laliberte was found guilty of disobeying an order of the court and placed on probation for 18 months. Tanner G. Willburn was found guilty of failing to comply with a probation order, sentenced to 30 days in jail and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. In Provincial Court in Prince George on Oct. 29: Cyle S.C. Breeden was found guilty of two counts of mischief and placed on probation for one year. Burton S. Dennis was found guilty of uttering threats, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Allison M. Gauthier was found guilty of two counts of fraud, sentenced to six months in jail and placed on probation for one year. Gauthier was also found guilty of failing to comply with a condition of an undertaking or recognizance, sentenced to seven days in jail and placed on probation for one year. Brent L. Wilson was found guilty of break and enter, sentenced to 56 days in jail, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $50.
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NEWS - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
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Skip Shawna Jensen from Victoria during the Scotties B.C. Women’s Curling Championships in Prince George on Monday.
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It went from ‘one strike, you’re vehicle will have to be in violation to towed’ to two Monday. get towed, meaning a legally parked With parking one of several issues vehicle with outstanding tickets will Prince George council has had major not get towed. And, of course, paying blowback from the public on, it outstanding tickets means you won’t decided to soften a staff recommenget towed. dation on how quickly the city would There is concern, however, that start towing cars when it goes to a motorist may get tickets in rapid the new licence succession (parplate recogniticularly with tion system for the one-strike Behaviour change process) and downtown. Coun. needs to happen. have their vehicle Cameron Stolz towed before they - Mayor Shari even know they suggested the change, which tickets. Green have quickly gained “The time traction from interval will be most of the rest of council. somewhat dependent on the licence “After one ticket, being towed is plate recognition system that is seexcessive,” said Stolz. lected,” said Rob Whitwham, director The staff report suggested a process of public safety and facilities. “We whereby if a motorist has an outwon’t be towing for an outstanding standing parking violation when or unpaid ticket received during the found in violation, the vehicle would interval between the time the ticket be towed. enters into the system and the vehicle “I don’t think that’s the message owner is notified of that ticket.” we want to send, in cooperation with How long that will take depends the downtown business who want on the system chosen. to have people park in front of their “We heard this was an enforcebusinesses,” said Coun. Frank Everitt. ment issue and tow the offenders,” After a lengthy discussion, council said Mayor Shari Green. “... The time approved adding a ‘strike’ to the prohas come where if you’ve got a ticket, cess, meaning a vehicle will get towed you need to pay your ticket ... If they on the third outstanding violation. A know that their vehicle might not be
Whatever the excuse... Accidents Happen Happen.
there, next time there might be more incentive for them to pay the parking ticket instead of the hassle and inconvenience of a tow. There is some behaviour change that needs to happen.”
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ON NOW AT YOUR BC CHEVROLET DEALERS. Chevrolet.ca 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Chevrolet is a brand of General Motors of Canada. * Offers apply to the lease of a new or demonstrator 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab 4x4 (1SA). Freight ($1,650) and PDI included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA, administration fees and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC Chevrolet Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. ≠2014 Silverado 1500 with the available 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission has a fuel-consumption rating of 13.0L/100 km city and 8.7L/100 km hwy 2WD and 13.3L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 4WD. Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine has a fuel-consumption rating of 12.9L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 2WD and 14.1L/100 km city and 9.6L/100 km hwy 4WD. Fuel consumption based on GM testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. Comparison based on wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and latest competitive data available. Excludes other GM vehicles. ^Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting. Maximum trailer weight ratings are calculated assuming base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other optional equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See your dealer for additional details. †Whichever comes first. Limit of four ACDelco Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ¥For retail customers only. $3,500 manufacturer-to-dealer credit available on cash, finance or lease purchases of 2014 MY Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab and 1500 Crew Cab. $1000 Lease Cash manufacturer-to-dealer credit available on lease acquisitions of 2014 MY Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab. Dealers may sell for less. Other cash credits available on most models. See participating dealer or chevrolet.ca for details. Offers end January 31, 2014. True North Edition Package (PDU) includes credit valued at $2,265 MSRP. +Whichever comes first. See dealer/manufacturer for details. Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting. ¥¥$1,000 manufacturer to dealer lease cash available on 2014 Silverado Double Cab. Other cash credits available on most models. See your GM dealer for details. Offer ends January 31, 2014. ‡Offer only valid from January 3, 2014 – January 31, 2014 (the “Program Period”) to retail customers resident in Canada who own or are currently leasing (during the Program Period) a GM or competitor pickup truck to receive a $1,000 credit towards the purchase, finance or lease of an eligible new 2013 or 2014 Model Year Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty, Silverado Heavy Duty, Sierra Light Duty, Sierra Heavy Duty, or 2013 Avalanche. Only one (1) credit may be applied per eligible vehicle sale. Offer is transferable to a family member living in the same household (proof of address required). This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. The $1,000 credit includes HST/GST/ PST as applicable by province. As part of the transaction, dealer will request current vehicle registration and/or insurance to prove ownership. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See your GM dealer for details. ~Includes 6 months trial of Directions & Connections with Turn-by-Turn Navigation (Turn-by-Turn Navigation not available in certain areas; availability impacted by some geographical/cellular limitations), advisor assisted-routing available; Visit onstar.ca for coverage map, details and system limitations. Services vary by model and conditions.
6
‘Roads are terrible’ - Krause
Friday, January 10, 2014 Prince George - NEWS - Free Press
It’s no shock to anyone who has driven Prince George streets lately … they’re terrible. That fact has not gone unnoticed by city council. “We have to acknowledge that the roads are terrible,” Coun. Murry Krause said at Monday’s council meeting. “We can’t sugarcoat it.” Having said that, Krause said rather than looking to attach blame for the poor roads, council and the city should look at what can be learned from the weather conditions over the past couple of weeks and the city’s response to big dumps of snow with the mindset of doing a better job. The comments were echoed by some members of council, who had asked operations superintendent Bill Gaal for a report on snow clearing. Gaal said that with the exception of one grader, whose operator was off work due to a death
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Council to receive comprensive snow removal report Jan. 20 in the family, all the city equipment was in operation. With Witth Wi h a few days between snowfalls prior to Wednesday’s dump, um mp, mp crews were working on scraping down the ice build up p on on the roads that have made them very difficult to drive o on. n. That, he said, requires changing blades on the graders and an nd plows, which takes time. In addition, grading down the he ice ice ce is a slower process than simply plowing snow. Another problem for the city is that it is having diffi fficu culty ultty ty getting enough contract workers to help. “We really have to get a grasp on this,” said Coun. B Brian riian n Skakun. “If we don’t have the contract graders and we don’t don’ do nt have all our equipment out there and if people are saying they don’t see the trucks as much, I tend to believe them.” Skakun said it’s also becoming a safety issue with roads so rutted with ice. Gaal G Ga aal al said sai aid that th hatt when w wh hen the hen he the big th big snowfalls bi snow sn owfa owf ow fall fall lls come, lls come co m , the me th he city cit ci ity ty works wo rks rk ks us uses es aall ll the tth he resources he rres esou ourc rces es it it has has to remove rrem emov ovee the th he snow. snow sn ow.. “We don’t park equipment to save money,” Gaal said. “The snowfall that happened in December cost the city $635,000.” Gaal will be presenting a comprehensive report to council regarding snow removal at the January 20 council meeting.
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Prince George -
NEWS - Free Press
Jones Delivers
Friday, January 10, 2014
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Skip Tracey Jones comes out of the hack during action in the Scotties B.C. Women’s Curling Championships in Prince George Monday.
Real estate sees gains
Real estate prices in Prince George continued to slowly edge upwards in 2013, according to figures released by the B.C. Northern Real Estate Board. In the City of Prince George, 1,291 properties worth $314 million sold in 2013, compared with 1,244 properties worth $294 million in 2012. At year-end there were 639 properties of all types available through MLSŽ compared to 620 properties at the end of 2012. “The BC Northern area continued its upward trend in sales volumes for the fourth year in a row and the average sale price for the entire area rose by over four per cent,� said Gisela Janzen, board president. “Markets in the northwest region performed extremely well, mostly driven by large economic projects and developments. Markets in the southern region remained largely unchanged from the previous year mainly due to a poorly performing labour market. Overall B.C. Northern appears to be most resilient in this post recession period when compared to the rest of the province.� In Prince George the average selling price of single-family home has gone from $246,484 in 2011 to $259,962 in 2013. In the area west of the by-pass, half of the 290 single-family homes sold in 2013, sold for less than $230,250. As well, 20 apartment units and 33 townhomes changed hands in 2013. As of December 31 there were 44 single family homes listed through the Multiple Listing Service in this area of the city, compared to 58 at the same time last year. East of the by-pass eight apartment units, 13 half duplexes, and 20 townhomes sold in 2013. The 177 single-family homes sold had a median value of $186,000. At the end of December there were 51 single-family homes available for sale through MLS in this area compared with 36 at the end of 2013. In the northern part of the city, commonly referred to as “the Hart,� 31 homes on acreage, nine manufactured homes in parks and a further 50 manufactured homes on land sold in 2013. Of the 185 single family homes sold, half sold for less than $270,000. As of December 31 there were 58 single family homes available through MLS in this area of the city compared with 38 at the end of 2012. In the southwest sector 15 half duplexes, 17 townhomes, 14 homes on acreage, 10 manufactured homes in parks and a further six manufactured homes on land sold in 2013. Half of the 245 single-family homes sold in 2013 sold for less than $315,000. At year end there were
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57 single family homes available for sale through MLS in the southwest sector, compared with 55 at the end of 2012.
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YOUR CITY MATTERS January 10, 2014
CITY COUNCIL MEETING Regular Meeting Monday, January 20, 2014 – 6:00 p.m. Council Chambers
PUBLIC NOTICES
2014 DOG LICENSES
Real Estate Services NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to the provisions of Section 26(3) of the Community Charter that the City of Prince George intends to lease 1424 2nd Avenue, Prince George, BC legally described as Part of Lots 10 to 13, Block 19, District Lot 343, Cariboo District Plan 1268 to Patricia Robillard, Terri Robillard & Jami Witso dba Japatedon Travel for a term of 2 years at a rent of $9,300.00 per year, plus applicable taxes, with one option to renew for a second term of 2 years, at the then fair market rent.
2014 DOG LICENSES ARE NOW ON SALE. If the dog is sterilized the license is $33 and if the dog is not sterilized the cost is $75. Dog tags can be purchased online at www.princegeorge.ca, by mail, by telephone 250-561-7600, Service Centre at City Hall, BC SPCA, Bosley’s Pet Food Plus, The Bone & Biscuit, Day N’ Night Store (Hart Hwy), Dog Gone Bakery, Ospika Pet & Farm Supplies, Petland, and Total Pet.
COUNCIL, COUNCIL COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS, AND BOARDS MEETINGS
Ian Wells, Director of Planning and Development
Advisory Committee on Development Design Wednesday, January 15, 2014 – 12:00 p.m. 2nd Floor Conference Room
TREE OF MEMORIES ORNAMENT PICK-UP – MEMORIAL PARK MAUSOLEUM
Select Committee on Prince George’s 100th Anniversary Thursday, January 16, 2014 – 12:00 p.m. Annex
Ornaments placed on the Tree of Memories at Memorial Park Mausoleum can be picked up at the Memorial Park Cemetery office Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Licensing your dog is a key factor in responsible pet ownership. A current valid dog license allows for quick identification if your dog is found at large or impounded.
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS Blackburn Community Association The Blackburn Community Association currently has spaces in their Preschool and Out-of-School Care programs! The Blackburn Li’l Rascals Preschool and Out-of-School Care licenced programs are open Monday through Friday. The program is located at 2455 Blackburn Road (basement of RJ Blackburn House). Please contact Amanda Conway at 250-963-6871 for more information about how to enrol your child for 2014!
1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC V2L 3V9 Tel. (250) 561-7600 • Fax (250) 612-5605 www.princegeorge.ca • ServiceCentre@city.pg.bc.ca
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Friday, January 10, 2014
BILL PHILLIPS | 250.564.0005 | editor@pgfreepress.com | www.pgfreepress.com
‘But I’m not dead yet’ Red Nose The imminent demise of newspapers?
sore legs
There was lots of talk around the office this week about the Kamloops Daily News closing its doors. While newspaper closures and layoffs have become commonplace these days, the Kamloops Daily News closure hits close to home. A lot of us here know people who work, or worked, at the newspaper. As journalists, we’re always saddened when other journalists lose their jobs. It’s such a wonderful profession to work in and a vital one for communities everywhere. As much as we in the profession like to lay claim to being community institutions, we are, first, a business. Like all businesses, money has to come in the door to keep the lights on, the presses rolling, the highpaid executives in luxury and the low-paid reporters in squalor (sorry, couldn’t resist). Should we in Prince George pay attention, or care? Of course we should. The similarities between Prince George and Kamloops are plenty. The cities are similar in size and economy. The Prince George Citizen is a sister paper to the Kamloops Daily News, just as Kamloops This Week is our sister paper. If it happened in Kamloops, it could happen here. Citizen publisher ColWRITER’S BLOCK leen Sparrow wrote an editorial this BILLPHILLIPS week saying that they are here for the long haul. And so are we. Both, however, come with a caveat … as long as the operations are financially viable. One of the things that we noticed out of the Kamloops Daily News announcement was publisher Tim Shoults stating that, over the years, they have given away millions of dollars in free advertising to help community groups and organizations. Newspapers are a funny business in that we do that … help community groups and organizations. It’s how we lay claim to being more than simply a business, how we lay claim to being community institutions. It often means giving advertising space away for free. While that’s obviously not the only reason for the Kamloops Daily News’ demise, it’s part of it. There is the greater issue at play … the imminent demise of
It’s funny sometimes how you don’t notice things when they’re happening. At Operation Red Nose on New Year’s Eve, I was basically shuttling between the phone-answering people and the dispatch desk. When I went from dispatch to the phones, I was letting the operators know how long a wait people would probably have before we could get a team to them. That wait is a normal part of New Year’s Eve with Operation Red Nose. It’s the night when more people are partying than any other night, and it’s the night where they’re going to stay up later. What usually happens as well, though, is that after they find out it could be an hour or more before we can get to them, people will give us their information to be on the safe side, but they might start looking for another way to get home. Maybe it’s someone who’s willing to drive them home, maybe it’s a cab, maybe the host of the party offers them a couch to crash on for a few hours. The good new is, most of these people do remember to call us back and cancel the ride. And that was the other half of my job at Red Nose. I took the cancellations from the operators and got them over to dispatch so we didn’t waste time sending a team out for a ride that was no ALLAN’S AMBLINGS longer needed. ALLANWISHART It was the usual story this year. Pretty slow with a few spurts before midnight, then the phones started ringing like crazy. It usually starts at 12:01 a.m., which leads me to believe there are some people in the city whose New Year’s Eve revelry goes something like this: “Three, two, one, Happy New Year. Hello, Operation Red Nose?” Anyways, I was doing a lot of moving back and forth from midnight until about 4 a.m. After the phones shut down and we started cleaning up, I headed out to my car to get home myself. As I sat down in the driver’s seat, my legs suddenly felt very tired. That was when I realized I had been standing or moving around for probably about five hours, without ever sitting down. It was strange how my legs didn’t feel any discomfort from standing for that long, but let me know how grateful they were to get a rest. It was another fun year at Operation Red Nose, for me and, I suspect, the vast majority of the volunteers. You see a lot of the same faces every year, and a lot of them are people you don’t see at all in the other 11 months. But you recognize them, you chat with them, you annoy them (well, I generally do that without even trying). We’re all there for the same reason, to help make the roads a bit safer during the holiday season, and the word seems to be getting out. I heard from the drivers this year a few more stories than in the past about how people were already planning to take Red Nose when they went out for the evening, and that’s great. Assuming nothing comes up between now and then, I’ll be back at Operation Red Nose headquarters later this year to start the whole process again.
newspapers. I’ve been asked the question for several years now and my usual response was that while dailies have suffered from the insidious Internet, community newspapers remain strong. And it’s true. However, we’re feeling the crunch along with everyone else. Last year we went from publishing twice a week to once a week. The newspaper industry is changing, evolving. That includes us. Is it going to disappear? I don’t believe so. Maybe I’m just being hopeful for an industry that I’ve been around all my life, but newspapers still play a critical role in the communities they serve. They serve as watchdogs of the community, promoters of the community, and, like it or not, they hold up a mirror to the community. We write history as it happens. It would be a shame for that to become history.
Shouldering the load frozen peas and other painkillers Not everyone can afford to go to Hawaii or Mexico for the winter so I am going to assume others are just in town, hibernating. That explains why my home phone has stopped ringing – because none of the people who know me or like me (two different groups) have recovered from New Year’s Eve partying. That has to be it. Hello out there. Is everyone still on holidays? Even the utilities people and my favourite “this will just take a minute” phone survey sweethearts have stopped calling me. What’s up with that? It’s been very quiet on the home front and at work, as if a blanket of snow has covered up all contact with humans. Today I checked the phone line at work too just to make sure it was still connected, you never know, even bosses with bucks can forget to pay utilities bills. The lines are OK so I think people out there have no stories to
tell – or else they’re leaving them in Las Vegas. This week I was scrambling for stories – with a slight handicap. Last weekend I managed TEA WITH TERESA to pop my TERESAMALLAM shoulder out. Clever clavicle, it does that, I think, to throw me off my game. I would love to pretend that I suffer from an old sports injury or a wild romp in the hay but the tame truth is, I fell a few years ago and pulled out my shoulder and it never mended. On Monday I phoned my doctor’s office
to make an appointment. It took me a few minutes to find the cordless phone because, as mentioned, there’d been no calls. The doctor’s receptionist said cheerfully: “Sorry, he’s not back in the office until Wednesday.” Right. No doubt he’s basking on the balmy beaches of some warm tropical isle, along with the “friends” on my silent speed dial, whilst I sit in agony with a bag of frozen peas on my shoulder and a cat licking the juice as it drips down my neck. Why not go to the ER? Because on my last visit to the hospital emergency room, in extreme pain, I had to answer this tricky multiple choice question: On a scale of one to 10 – 10 being the worst – what is your pain like? How’s 11 sound? Loud. The thing I’ve learned with my sporadicbut-when-it-comes-it’s-off-the-charts pain, is it helps if you were born with a healthy set of lungs.
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What you do speaks so loud I cannot hear what you say - Ralph Waldo Emerson
BILL PHILLIPS | 250.564.0005 | editor@pgfreepress.com | www.pgfreepress.com
Loaded for bear ... not
C
ould hunting grizzly bear in British Columbia be coming to an end? B.C.’s Coastal First Nations were quick to endorse a new U.S. study of the value of bear viewing in their traditional territories. Kitasoo/Xai’xais councillor Doug Neasloss said the study by the Washington D.C.-based Centre for Responsible Travel supports what the northwest coast aboriginal communities have been saying for years: “Bears are worth more alive than they are dead.” The study calculated that in 2012, bear viewing in what is now popularly known as the Great Bear Rainforest generated 12 times the visitor revenue as bear hunting. It counts 510 people employed in bear viewing companies compared to 12 jobs in guided hunting. The study is the latest salvo in a battle over trophy hunting in B.C. In November the province proposed to expand its traditional grizzly hunt to include Cariboo and Kootenay regions that were previously closed due to population concerns. The Coastal First Nations, which includes Haida, Heiltsuk and seven other North Coast communities, has asserted its unresolved treaty rights in logging and pipeline protests as well as bear hunting. In 2012 the group announced a ban on trophy hunting for bears in its territories. The province has continued to issue “harvesting” permits, including one well-publicized trophy shot by NHL player Clayton Stoner in May 2013, who took only the head and paws. The U.S. study, funded by Tides Canada and Nature Conservancy USA, suggested B.C. has overstated the value of its guide-outfitter business to remote economies. The province tracks wildlife populations and records human-related deaths, including vehicle accidents and “conflict kills,” where ranchers or conservation officers shoot bears to protect homes or livestock. The U.S. study reports that there were 74 grizzly hunters from outside B.C. in 2012, 80 per cent of them from the U.S. From 1976 to 2009 the province issued hunting permits for an average of 297 grizzly bears a year. Guides and outfitters have, for years, touted the economic benefits of big game hunting. It does contribute greatly to the economy. But perhaps a different use is worth even more. Be first to add to the story or read what your neighbour thinks. Be a part of your community paper. Comment online.
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Who’s responsible? How much we wish our governments to interfere with our make sure that standard is applied every time. lives is always an interesting debate. The position we hold When we go to a doctor, dentist or other professional we depends on what experiences the big, and sometimes bad, assume they are qualified to carry out the task we require world has subjected us to. done. We seldom stop and ask them for references before we We all wish to be safe and lead healthy lives. To do so, we let them work on us or our problems. Someone out there has must have some standards and controls. Those standards said they are qualified to do so. and controls are most frequently laid down by our various We have managed to pile law upon law, regulation upon levels of government. Laws and regulations exist for almost regulation, and rule upon rule until everything except the any activity or event. size of paper clips and a few other minor items While we usually agree with the insistence are now regulated. It has become impossible to that we and others govern our behaviour within absorb and follow every rule laid down on how certain parameters, there are few of us who we should (or is that must) lead our lives. Can have not commented at one time or another anyone, short of being in a coma, get through a about how stupid the law or regulation is. It just day without being guilty of crossing the line and depends on our own particular self-interest. A be a lawbreaker? It may be something simple simple example may be the time we acquired and it may be regularly overlooked, but it is still a speeding ticket because we were in a bit of a an infraction. hurry. The weather is nice, the road is excelThe vastness and number of rules and regulalent, your vehicle is a well-maintained top of tions inhibits many actions which would be the line automobile, and you are an excellent beneficial. Individual ideas and hopes are abanONSIDE driver. There is no rational reason you should doned as people and groups cease pursuing their VICBOWMAN new idea because the burden of conforming to be stopped and handed a ticket. At least that is your sincere belief. so many rules has just becomes too much. There What about the food we feed our families? We expect are probably many innovations out there that we shall never those who raise, preserve, package and do whatever else they see or hear of. do before it is available for sale to follow strict guidelines to We have traded off a great deal of our personal freedoms be sure the food is safe to consume. We expect some agency by simply abdicating our own personal responsibilities. Anyof government to make sure those rules are followed so we time anything goes wrong, we too often turn to government may confidently enjoy what we eat. to make a rule. When we purchase an automobile, we expect it to be safe They respond willingly. If we individually do not take and perform well. We don’t want to find out that the brakes responsibility for our own actions, but expect others to help are faulty at the moment we need them in an emergency. us when we have acted irresponsibly, we are destined to lead We expect a minimum standard and we expect someone to restrictive and impoverished lives. circulation@pgfreepress.com | 250-564-0504
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Show the Former cabinet minister touts Site C secret agenda
Editor: Canada needs its own Edward Snowden. We need some patriot who will break free of the Prime Minister’s Office to publicize Stephen Harper’s secret agenda for Canada. We see evidence of his regime’s plans in our every day news as they are inflicted upon us by stealth. Basic science is under attack wherever it infringes on the rationale for “ripping and shipping” Canada’s energy resources. We just heard of Canadian museums being closed and their contents dumped. Statistics Canada is crippled in its mandate to collect objective data. Research on climate change and the effects of pollution is being defunded. Knowledge itself is under concerted attack. Taxes for corporations are cut while staff at Revenue Canada is reduced so audits for the rich are limited. While services for people are cut, fees and hidden taxes increase. Dubious political propaganda organizations are granted tax-exempt “charity” status. Harper shamelessly advocates pipelines, fracking, and export of raw resources while our manufacturing infrastructure, a source of stable, well-paid jobs, is allowed to deteriorate. He chases “free trade deals” on all quarters that deliberately tie future governments’ hands in representing our economic and environmental needs. All these trends, and more, are symptoms of an underlying agenda that is changing Canada in ways that will not be easily reversed by any future progressive administration. Canadians deserve to know Harper’s secret agenda for Canada. James Loughery Prince George
Editor: Public hearings are underway for the Site C Clean Energy Project (Site C), a proposed dam and hydroelectric generating station in northeast B.C. As a former energy minister, I know the Site C project very well and I believe that it is a good project for the region and a good project for the entire province. Having lived in the Peace region my entire life, I recognize that there will be a need to give and take as we move forward as a province. The Site C project is an important one for B.C. and I believe it is in the public interest to proceed. With electricity demand forecast to increase by about 40 per cent in the next 20 years, the project would help meet the future electricity needs of both people and businesses. And the power from Site C would be needed with or without an emerging LNG industry; although LNG facilities would accelerate the need for the project. The business case for Site C is a compelling one. If approved, Site C would provide clean, renewable and costeffective electricity for more than 100 years. Hydroelectric facilities like Site C use water as its power source, so it would produce among the lowest level of greenhouse gas emissions compared to alternatives. And Site C would have a relatively small reservoir for the amount of electricity it would generate because it would rely on the existing Williston Reservoir for most of its water storage. This is very significant as it would allow Site C to generate 35 per cent of the energy of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam with a reservoir that is only five per cent of the size. The electricity from Site C would also help our province be electricity self-sufficient, so that we do not have to import electricity from other jurisdictions. Of course, all new electricity-generation projects have impacts and Site C is no different. That’s why BC Hydro has filed tens of thousands of pages of detailed information to environmental assessment agencies that explains the poten-
tial effects of the project, along with plans to mitigate those effects. BC Hydro’s conclusion is that the effects from Site C can be mitigated through careful project planning, comprehensive mitigation programs and ongoing monitoring during construction and operations. And ultimately that the project’s effects are justified by the need for the project, and the environmental, economic and social benefits it would provide. The economic development from Site C will be important for many families and communities in the region and the province. Construction would add $3.2 billion to gross domestic product (GDP), including $130 million to regional GDP. This translates into a lot of jobs. The project would create 10,000 person-years of direct construction jobs and about 33,000 direct and indirect jobs. B.C. has a history of success with hydroelectric power. We are world leaders in building and operating hydroelectric dams and generating stations safely and reliably for the benefit of millions of British Columbians. I believe Site C is in the best long-term interests of B.C. Blair Lekstrom Former MLA, former cabinet minister, and former Mayor of Dawson Creek
Zimmer misleading public
Canada Post turned a profit for 17 of past the 18 years: CUPW Editor: I’d like to express my extreme disappointment with the letter from Prince George-Peace River MP Bob Zimmer regarding Canada Post and their decision to cut door-to-door delivery service (Free Press, December 27. It seems that Mr. Zimmer didn’t bother to do any research whatsoever into the issues at hand before he took up his pen to repeat the Conservative party rhetoric about Canada Post losing money and costing the taxpayers of Canada “hundreds of millions of dollars every year.” If Mr. Zimmer had done any actual research he would know that for 17 of the past 18 years Canada Post has been very profitable, and has paid dividends to the Canadian government in excess of $1.5 billion. The only year they did not turn a profit was in 2011 and in that year Canada Post locked out their work force for a two-week period and they were also finally forced to settle a pay equity lawsuit. Mr. Zimmer could have accessed the profits and losses by year on Canada Post’s own website had he chosen to look for this information. It is an absolute fact that the service Canada Post provides is not costing the Canadian taxpayers one cent, and for Mr. Zimmer to state as much is either ignorance of the facts on his part, or a blatant attempt to mislead the public. Mr. Zimmer is absolutely correct in his statement that businesses need to adapt in order to stay competitive, but does that mean Canada Post should adapt by cutting services while raising the costs to consumers? What business can do those two things simultaneously and hope to survive? The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has been urging Canada Post to explore the very lucrative area of postal banking. There are more than 2,000 communities in Canada that have post offices but no access to financial and
banking services. Why not use the infrastructure already in place to fulfill this need? Postal banking in countries such as France, Italy, Switzerland, New Zealand and the UK has actually helped those countries generate significant profits, anywhere from 67 per cent to 71 per cent of total profits in some cases. Why on earth would Canada Post and the current government of Canada not consider adapting this business to include this already proven and highly successful option? Is it possible that there’s a hidden agenda involved? While I did enjoy Mr. Zimmer waxing poetic about trips to the post office with his grandfather when he was a boy, I would rather focus on the reality of cutting door-to-door service and the effect that move would have on the lives of Canadians. In his report to the parliamentary committee on transportation, Canada Post CEO Deepak Chopra stated that Canadians were telling him they want to pick up their mail in community mail boxes. He also stated that seniors want to be active and that they can get their exercise by walking down to the community mail box to get their mail. I would like a list of how many seniors Mr. Chopra spoke to, because it seems to me that he wasn’t speaking to the seniors in Prince George. Has Mr. Chopra factored Canadian winters into this exercise scenario of his? Ice and snow account for the majority of serious injuries suffered by letter carriers every year, and I can assure you that the broken bones and sprained ankles and bruised tailbones number in the thousands. Community mail boxes are routinely snowed in and Canada Post is famous for not having them cleared, sometimes for days on end. How are seniors and persons with disabilities supposed to access their mail during winter months? Community mail box locks freeze up in the
winter, which is a major source of frustration and the cost of replacing keys should they be lost or should the lock need replacing is $29. Along with the unbelievable amount of garbage and vandalism at community mail box sites, the lack of security at them is a huge concern. There have been thousands of news articles and RCMP reports on mail theft from community mail boxes and Canada Post’s own officials are busy telling customers that they need to pick up their mail “as soon after delivery as possible” if they want security. Community mail boexs are easily broken into and have become a source of ‘one stop shopping’ for criminals engaging in mail theft and identity theft. Passport information, licences and other important documents are a very tempting target and unlit community mail box sites are ripe for the picking. It is distressing that Canada would become the only OECD nation in the world to eliminate door-to-door delivery service to its customers. This, along with the extreme rise in the price of stamps will create huge issues for people with low income, small businesses and charitable organizations. The post office belongs to the public and should have public service as its number one priority. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has pledged to work with our allies in communities across the country to defend door to door delivery and a postal service that works for all Canadians. Postal workers in Prince George are gathering signatures on petitions around the city. Please take a minute to stop and chat with us, sign the petition and have your say about the future of Canada Post. Tami Brushey President, Prince George CUPW Local #812
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TERESA MALLAM | 250.564.0005 | arts@pgfreepress.com | www.pgfreepress.com BAND PERRY On their We Are Pioneers world tour, the Band Perry with guests Easton Corbin and Lindsay Ell plays CN Centre on Saturday, Jan. 11. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets or order online at www.ticketmaster.ca.
MICHAEL WARR Local author Michael Warr will be in Cafe Voltaire on Saturday, Jan. 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. to sign copies of his new book, Murder in the Antarctic. It’s a classic how-done-it murder mystery, set on a contemporary Antarctic cruise. Warr has spent years in the Antarctic and those experiences led to his writings on the area. You can check out the book at www.feedaread.com.
TWO RIVERS In addition to its regular drop-in MakerLab sessions on Thursdays, Two Rivers Gallery has a great line-up of classes and workshops for a variety of age groups. Jan. 23 Taylor Sapergia will be teaching the tricks of the trade for sharpening tools and knives (preregistration required). Jan. 29 to March 6 Two Rivers Gallery offers instruction on the Art of Fly Tying with Brian Smith and Erich Franz teaching the art over six weeks. $30. Preregistration required. For more information or to register, visit www.tworiversgallery.ca or call 250-614-7800. You can call him the Joker,
STEVE MILLER
you can call him the Space Cowboy or you can call him Maurice, but you have to call Steve Miller one of the true legends of rock and roll. The legend will be in Prince George on April 9 at CN Centre. It’s their first Canadian tour in more than 20 years, and tickets are available now at all Ticketmaster locations.
4415 HOGSR2™
Art that asks questions The Ancients opens January 16 at Studio 2880 Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com Photographer Alex Moffat’s solo exhibition The Ancients, which opens Jan. 16 at Studio 2880, is likely to stir hearts and raise questions. Moffat hopes it will do even more. “All photographers aspire to engage their viewer and get them to see what they see when they look through the lens,” he said, “but this (The Ancients) allows them to look for and find deeper understanding. So in a way, it’s a search for spirituality. If they look, ask questions and open themselves up to the possibility, they see the light on the branches ... and the souls of the trees or the Teresa MALLAM/Free Press spirits of the forests that Photographer Alex Moffat has a solo show opening Jan. 16 at the Exhibit Gallery at Studio 2880. reside there.” was off so there was no detail, it He hopes the public will not just on learning all aspects of photogThe Ancients contains looked soft and out of focus – but like his work but want to ask quesraphy and then went from being a works by Moffat that began with a I liked it. It was hard on the eyes tions about it. part-tome hobbyist to a full time few photos that were out of focus though, with no depth of field, so “I think people are more recepprofessional. but created an interesting image. I created a wider depth of field, so tive to being open when they feel In more recent years, he trained The photographs were taken over that the eye could now focus – and they are in a safe place. I hope it under contemporary photographers the course of about three years. that birthed this [body of] work. It does lead them to question things such as Greg Hiesler, Mark KoeMoffat says he began changing began really by mistake.” they see more and then seek out gel, James Emler and Joe McNally. direction in his photography after Moffat said he made a video out answers.” Through personal and professional attending a photography workshop Will he do more images like this? growth, Zander developed a style of in Santa Fe which “focused” on light of footage taken of the forest and found that he liked what he saw. Perhaps of a different subject? photography that is truly his own. a few years ago and he came away He then “refined the mistake into a “I think I’ll wait until the show is His most influential teacher is close with a greater appreciation for the over to gauge public response befriend and long-time mentor, Tim way light appeared to change things. technique.” That led to his documentation of the uniquely beautiful fore I do more of this kind of thing,” Swanky. On subsequent walks closer to forest in a unique way. Instead of says Moffat. The Community Arts Council home, through the Ancient Forest, simply taking photographs of it, The artist’s own profile: presents The Ancients by photogan old-growth cedar forest between he wanted to visualize and present Alex Zander’s photographic rapher Alex Moffat at the Exhibit Prince George and McBride, the nature in a new way. journey began at age 14 when he Gallery at Studio 2880, 2820 15th photographer began to see nature The result, he says, is a body of received his grandfather’s cherAve. The exhibit officially opens itself in a very different light. work he believes “represents the ished Pentax camera. As a hobby, Jan. 16 with a public reception from “I began seeing light differently,” forest as etherial and the impreshe began photographing people, 7 to 9 p.m. and is on display until he said. “I was on a walk through sionistic energy of the photographs landscapes, outdoor activities and March 6. the forest with my mother, I had celebrations. Later on, at the Arts For more information on the arttaken a few pictures of the forest but coincides with the energy of the spirits of the forest.” Institute in Vancouver, he focused ist visit www.azphoto.ca. they looked blurry, the exposure
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The Golden Years make sure they’re golden Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com
Submitted Photo
Trish Johnson will host a Senior’s Tea and Talk and a Boomer Cafe to discuss issues of aging Feb. 21 at the Civic Centre.
er Undw Ne rship ne Ow
EK 2 WE HOUSE WARE
l a n o s a e s arancew cle
The Golden Years are only truly golden if we go into them armed with information. That includes tips about health and wellness, advice about finances, wills and legal issues and access to hospitals and affordable housing. Trish Johnson, a certified professional consultant on aging, has worked with seniors giving advice aimed at improving their quality of life for many years and is now more committed than ever to getting the word out to boomers and seniors alike that knowledge is power. “I don’t know if people have noticed or not, but it seems that everywhere you turn, there are news reports about aging, dementia, changes to government income programs, elder abuse and the list goes on,� Johnson told the Free Press. “This isn’t something to be taken lightly. It is a walk-up call to us all.� Johnson grew up in the 50s and as
a contemporary is able to relate to the people she wants to help guide through their life. “As a boomer myself (born in 1956), I have this need to know what lies ahead, in terms of my own aging experience, particularly as it relates to what Prince George has to offer. I’m out there asking the questions. I have some answers but more than that I am connected to a network of incredible professionals in the housing, health, financial, legal and educational fields who are the ones on the cutting edge and who understand the current reality.� One of her special interests, she said, is seeing others succeed in fulfilling their purpose in life. “I’ve invited a couple of ‘boomers’ who will share what they are doing to find purpose and meaning and also to ignite the passion of their ‘boomer’ and senior years.� Johnson learned her own lessons in life about the importance of planning and preparing for the unexpected. “My mom died young with ovarian cancer... my 37-year-old brother
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was catastrophically brain-injured in a car accident, so I used my life experiences to drill in the point that anyone of any age needs to be prepared with the right documents that can help them navigate life events.� Johnson says she really encourages people to feel free to speak about any concerns they have without fear or shame. “It’s not a sign of depression to deal with these matters. It’s being responsible, pro-active and wise,� she said. “Most people will understand what that means. It means doing what needs to be done, organizing the household papers, the finances, the wills and estate plans, advance planning agreements. What needs to be considered when it comes to downsizing.� Does Prince George fit the bill for its aging citizens? Johnson says she needs to ask the important questions to find out. “Will Prince George have affordable housing? Will Prince George be able to meet my health care needs as an aging person or will I have to relocate to a larger centre? What do I need to do or think about doing? Is there anything I can do to make my peace within the family without having to get involved in relationships?� Trish Johnson will host two events Feb. 21 at the Civic Centre, which feature a panel of experts addressing topics of interest to boomers and seniors including legal issues. From 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. there will be a Senior’s Tea and Talk (those aged 66 and over will benefit most) where an interesting panel of guests will share their thoughts on the topic: Aging-Well, Things that Matter Most. From 2 to 4 p.m., there will be a Boomer-Cafe (those 50 to 65 will benefit most) with a lively, interactive, information forum with a great panel of local experts who make this subject fun. The topic is Aging Well; Takin’ Care of Business.
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Prince George -
COMMUNITY - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
13
Boom Booms set for Coldsnap Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com The Vancouver-based band The Boom Booms take to the stage at Coldsnap Winter Music Festival in Prince George this month. They will be taking part in a workshop and performing at Youth Around Prince George (YAP) Friday, Jan. 24. Aaron Ross, lead singer and guitarist for The Boom Booms, spoke with the Free Press Wednesday from Vancouver about their music and the origins of their grassroots environmental organization The Music Tree. “This all had very humble beginnings. My brother Sean and I, and some of our friends we grew up with, just got together with other bands from our [East Vancouver] neighbourhood, we built a stage and just started playing music and building it into a community event. We called it the Boom Boom Block Party. We were all committed to the same things around sustainability and so we began raising money and it just kind of went from there.” Indeed, they raised over $20,000
for organizations such as Environmental Youth Alliance (EYA), an inner city youth group and also The Music Tree, an organization co-founded by Ross that is committed to greening the planet by inspiring people to get involved in community building and selfsustainability projects. Besides Aaron and Sean Ross (vocals, cavaquinho), other band members are Geordie Hart, bass, vocals; Tom Van Deursen, electric guitar, vocals; Theo Vincent, percussion, vocals and Richard Brinkman on drums. Today they are working on their new album to be released in the spring and they’re already getting “good radio play” at stations across the country for their single, Real Love, says Ross. It’s true, (just as the group’s bio states) that these friends and bandmates once worked at tree-planting camps in British Columbia, planting trees by day and creating and performing their music by night – mostly for their own entertainment. When the planting season ended, that’s when they decided to put together the Boom Boom Block Party, which became a hit with East Vancouver residents.
Asked what name they give to their own brand of music, band members came in with their own diverse music genres from Ross’ reggae and folk to Hart’s jazz and Brinkman’s rock ‘n’ roll. Well, it all meshed magically to a point where Ross says: “Right now we’re calling it world soul.” In 2011, The Boom Booms released their debut album, Hot Rum, which earned the indie band a spot in the Peak Performance ProjPhoto submitted The Boom Booms play Prince George Jan. 24 for Coldsnap. ect, B.C.’s prestigious contest for emerging musicians. They won and a cameo appearance by the the west coast and parts of the U.S. second place and a cash prize of band’s idol, Manu Chao. The Boom Booms will be at $75,000 which they used to pursue “The experience was a crossColdsnap Winter Music Festival their passion for music, travel and roads both musically and spiritu2014 for a workshop and perforculture to Brazil where they travally for us,” says Ross in the band’s mance with CBC Radio One’s elled up the Amazon River. press release. “It steered us from special Livin’ in the VLA at Youth The footage from the adventure having a hobby and a way to see Around Prince George (YAP) 11 was turned into an online music the world, to having a career and a a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24. and travel documentary called way to change it.” For more information on the Boom Boom Brazil. The band’s trip After the release of their new band visit www.theboombooms. records live shows, interviews with album in the spring, Ross says the com or follow them on Facebook activists, jams with local musicians band plans to spend time touring and Twitter.
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Prince George - COMMUNITY - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
www.pgfreepress.com
Huber new president BCNE looks to be bigger in 2014 Teresa Mallam arts@pgfreepress.com
“Bratt” Bratt is a senior citizen. At 12 years old this spayed dilute tortoise shell cat is looking for a retirement home. She loves to cuddle and stretch out in the sun. She would be a great single living cat. She would be perfect buddy for a senior person!
If Bratt sounds like your type of cat, contact the BC SPCA at 250-562-5511 or visit us at: 4011 Lansdowne Road • northcariboo@spca.bc.ca This message brought to you by
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As the newly minted president of the board of directors for the British Columbia Northern Exhibition (BCNE), Alex Huber knows he has his work cut out for him. However thanks to a good foundation built up over the years, he wants to move forward making some changes and improvements. “This is the people’s fair and we want to bring it back to the people,” he said Monday. “We’ve hired a fair manager, Heather Webster, and we’ll be looking at ways to make it the fair people want.” In a word, it will be bigger. “When people pay their admission and walk through the gates they want to get value for their money. So we plan to give them value added by making the fair bigger – and better. We will be adding to the midway, adding to the shows and entertainment. People are going to see some top-notch entertainment with local and bigger acts.” As past secretary and treasurer of the board, Huber said his experience working with the board has allowed him to see what needs to be done to make the fair better in the coming years. Passion, not pay, is his motivator. “There is a big public misperception that we all get paid,” he said. “In fact there is only one and a half paid positions – the manager and a part time office person. I don’t get paid. Nobody else gets paid. We’re all volunteers.” And the fair relies on a large number of volunteers, he points out. “The community spirit behind this fair is actually quite humbling. We want
to make this the fair that people are looking for. In the past, there’s been a lot of generosity from local business and we hope that will continue. Actually we want to thank our government leaders for their help – [Prince George-Valemount MLA] Shirley Bond has always been a friend of the fair and the City of Prince George lets us use the fairgrounds every year.” Huber says the cost of fair admissions will be reviewed. “We want to bring in a family or group rate that is reasonable and along with the board we will be looking into what that figure could be.” Huber says in wanting to reshape and revamp the fair, he’s not being critical of any of its past leadership. “This is in no way disrespectful to anyone. In moving forward, we do want to bring the fair back to its agricultural roots. We need to rethink it. We have lots of BCNE president Alex Huber shaping to do in the coming months and we will not be “We got a lot of flak for the new name leaving too many areas undisturbed. Last BCNE but B.C. Fairs [B.C. Association of year, we were hampered by the construcAgriculture Fairs and Exhibitions] wanted tion of the Kin 1 building but that will our fair to take on a bigger role. The new be finished in May and it will be an ideal name better reflects who we are because facility for our vendors and fair goers.” many of our vendors and exhibitors and There will be a return of favourite our visitors come from all over the region. rodeo events such as barrel racing, heavy In the early 80s I think it was called the horse pull and team cattle penning. One Fall Fair, so it’s had a few names. “ thing that won’t change, however, is the This year’s BCNE will run August 7-10, name of the fair. he said.
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OPEN 7:30am–10pm 7 days a week • Group Gatherings • barbequenation15@gmail.com 1393 Central St. West, Prince George (Next to Bank of Montreal) **some restrictions may apply
This contest is open to everyone. No entry fee! Get your family, class, club or team together or do it on your own! HOW TO ENTER:
OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS
1. Practice building your snowman creation for the next 6 weeks 2. Take a photo when you have it just right, enter every week if you wish. 3. Submit photo with registration form by noon every Wednesday to editor@pgfreepress. com
WIN GREAT PRIZES
$100 Cash prize for each of 6 Weekly Winners We will also be awarding three additional final prizes after February 20, 2014. The final three Grand Prizes will be chosen from all the entries to date. For more details visit www.snowdaze.ca
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For news and updates, check us out online at www.rdffg.bc.ca 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Telephone: (250) 960-4400, Toll Free 1-800-667-1959 Fax (250) 563-7520, Web: www.rdffg.bc.ca
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Prince George - SIGN
UP - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
Teen Drop-in Programs!
Check it out! Great ideas to help you choose! Get involved!
15
Winter 2014 season starts the week of January 6th
Get your team together today! We surveyed local teens to find out what you want from your YMCA... Guess what? We are giving it to you!
Floor Hockey
Dodgeball
Drop-in Badminton
P ing-pong
Sports Hour
SIGN UP
Drop-in Basketball Volleyball
today!
Open Gym
Check online for our schedule and more information!
two rivers gallery Meet you at the MakerLab
Adult Studio Youth Studio
Classes & Workshops
Primary (grades K-2) & Intermediate (grades 3-7) camps are available for both themed weeks. Up to 20 students in each camp Cost: $190/child Camp activities run 9am-4pm daily. Before camp care is available 8-9am and after-camp care is available 4-5:30pm at no additional cost. Registration for both of these fantastic fun-filled weeks of Spring Break Camp opens on Monday January 27th, 2014. Register via our website:
www.theexplorationplace.com
Thursdays, 5–9pm
Woven Metal Boxes Tool Sharpening The Art of Fly Tying Home Hair Cuts Intro to 3D Printing Evil Mad Love Science Intro to Arduino Vermicomposting
2–12 year olds
March 24 - 28: Junior Astronomers Camp
Open Make Nights Youth MakerLab
Classes
March 17 - 21: Harry Potter Science Camp Seeing is believing!
2RG
ABCs of Art Colour Crew Picasso’s Playgroup Youth Sculpture Fashion Flare Manga Picasso’s Playgroup for Adults Adding Energy to Your Painting Self-Directed Life Drawing Drawing & Painting Dive Deep: Drawing Intro to Illustration Art Heals
(click on “childcare programs”)
Gallery Members receive 10% discount on all classes
For full line-up or to register online, go to: www.tworiversgallery.ca/learn-create 725 Civic Plaza | Tel: 250-614-7800
16
Prince George - SIGN
Friday, January 10, 2014
Belly CALL Dance NOW! Classes
Classes Filling Fastt
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February 17 - 21 March 10 - 14
Monday 9:30-10:30am Zumba 6-7:15pm Beginner Bellydance 7:15-8:30pm Beginner Bellydance
FIRST AID LEVEL 3
January 13 - 24 Jan 27 - Feb 7 February 17 - 28 January 11 February 15 March 8
Thursday 12:10-12:50 Bellyrobics 6-7:15pm Multi Level Bellydance
Saturday 9:30-10:30am NIA
Sandy Tanemura (Halawa)
Visit our website for rates and full details or call …
CERTIFIED BELLYDANCE INSTRUCTOR email: zahirahbellydance@hotmail.com
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School District #57
Centre for Learning Alternatives Continuing Education at John McInnis Centre 3400 Westwood Drive Prince George, BC V2N 1S1
ENFORM H2S ALIVE (8 HOUR)
Wednesday 5:30-6:45pm Level 2 Bellydance 6:45-8pm Intermediate Bellydance
Friday 6:30-7:30pm Burlesque Teaser
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LIFESAVERS
JANUARY CLASSES STARTING NOW!
Tuesday 10:45am-12pm Daytime Bellydance 12:10-12:50pm Bellyrobics 6-7:15pm Level 2 Bellydance 7:15-8:30pm Burlesque/Bellydance Fusion
UP - Free Press
ALSO PROVIDING • • • •
Level 1 and TE Courses TDG, WHMIS and Fire Suppression AED Certification Canadian Red Cross Programs
Lifesavers First Aid Call now to register
250-562-1238 439 Cassiar St. (across from Hands on Carwash) www.lifesaversfirstaid.ca
Skills Upgrading Grade 11/ 12 English English Chemistry Math Math and more… Biology
COMPLETE YOUR DIPLOMA! Registration is ongoing: • BC Ministry of Education approved courses • Self-paced • Teacher supported
Ph: 250-564-6574 Check out our website: www.cla.sd57.bc.ca
FREE to all Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents. Must be BC Resident and age 18 or over
STUDY SKILLS, MATH, WRITING, READING, HOMEWORK HELP
RENOWED FOR CUTTING EDGE, INSPIRED, AND MOTIVATED TEACHERS
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WE OFFER... A variety of dance classes, including Royal Academy of Dance Ballet, CDTA Tap, Modern, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Conditioning, & Flamenco. Home School Programs A Full Range of Adult Dance Classes. A Variety of Recreational Classes for Dancers of All Ages Professional Office Staff-Reliable Office Hours In House Dance Supply Store, Dance N Things
REGISTER TODAY FOR ANY OF OUR CLASSES, INCLUDING 9 WEEK PROGRAMS Congratulations to the dancers from our Enchainement Dance Centre on a beautiful and successful production of “The Nutcracker 2013” with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra! Many of our students have gone on to professional dance programs and careers, such as The Stuttgard Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, San Fransisco Ballet, Cirque de Soleil, and a variety of Motion Picture and Stage Roles. judydance@shawcable.com 250-563-2902 | 3540 Opie Crescent www.judyrusselldance.com “Northern BC’s Premier Dance Studio since 1979”
Enchainement Dancer and Teacher, TRISTAN GHOSTKEEPER photo credit: pearl.loerke.photography
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Prince George -
COMMUNITY - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
Datebook
17
www.pgfreepress.com Friday
Potluck, Jan. 10, 5 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre. H&H Market, FridaySunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 3955 Hart Highway. Read-to-me Storytime, Fridays, 10-10:45 a.m., South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle. Information: 250-6140684.
Saturday
Dog agility trial, Jan. 11, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Agriplex. Fundraiser for SPCA. Dance to Caribou Thunder, Jan. 11, 8 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre.
Nechako Public Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 5100 North Nechako Rd. A Butler’s Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 1156 Fourth Ave.
Sunday
Birchleg ski tour, Jan. 19, 10:30 a.m., Hickory Wing ski area, 5k east of Tabor Mountain Resort. Information: Norm 250963-7417, Van 250-5648293.
Nechako Public Market, Sundays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 5100 North Nechako Rd. A Butler’s Market, Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 1156 Fourth Ave.
“GIVE A LITTLE… GAIN A LOT!” Special Olympics Prince George Currently accepting applications for Local Coordinator, Program Coordinator, Fundraiser and a variety of other positions. Kristin kwebster@specialolympics.bc.ca (250) 570-1455 Senior Activity Centre - Brunswick We are looking for a volunteer to teach our seniors line dancing twice a week. Mondays and Thursdays 11:30-12:30. Email: senioractivitypg@shaw.ca Trianda 250-564-3287 Canadian Cancer Society Project: Free Radon testing kits distribution. Volunteer roles: admin support, presenters, booth and awareness. Volunteers will also be offered radon kits. Email kmedhurst@bc.cancer.ca Kerensa 250-564-0885 For information on volunteering with more than 100 non-profit organizations in Prince George, contact Volunteer Prince George
250-564-0224 www.volunteerpg.com
Monday
Canasta, Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre. Tai Chi, Mondays, 1:30 p.m., Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr.
Cariboo Toastmasters meet Mondays, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Ramada Hotel, 444 George St. Information: caribootoastmasters.com or Laura (250) 961-3477. Northern Twister Square Dance Club meets Mondays, 7 p.m., Knox United Church basement. Information: Gys 250- 563-4828 or Reta 250-962-2740.
Tuesday
Bridge, Tuesdays, 1 p.m., Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr.
Center City Toastmasters meet Tuesday, noon, City Hall Annex. Information: 9164.toastmastersclubs.org. Prince George Quilters Guild meets fourth Tuesday of the month, Connaught Youth Centre, 1491 17th Ave. Registration 6:30 p.m., meeting 7 p.m. Information: Echo 250612-0499. Buddhist meditation class, Tuesdays, 7:158:45 p.m., 320 Vancouver St. Information: 250-962-6876 or www. kmcvancouver.org. Spruce Capital Toastmasters meet Tuesdays, 7:25 p.m., 102-1566 7th Ave. Information: Tom 250562-3402. Sweet Adelines women’s four-part chorus meets Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m., Studio 2880. New members welcome. Information: Kathy 250563-5170.
Hospital retirees meet, first Tuesday of the month, 9 a.m., Prince George Golf Club. Information 250-5637497 or 250-563-2885.
Wednesday
University Women’s Club meets, Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Magnolia Gardens, 2055 Ingledew St..
P.G. COPD Support Group meets Wednes-
days, 1-3 p.m., AIMHI gymnasium, 950 Kerry St. Information: www. pgcopdsupportgroup.ca. Bingo, Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., Spruce Capital Senior Recreation Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr. Whist, Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Senior Activity Centre, 425 Brunswick St. Hart Toastmasters, Wednesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre. Information: harttoastmasters.ca CNC Retirees meet fourth Wednesday, 9 a.m., D’Lanos. Information: Lois 250563-6928. Army Cadet Rangers free youth program, meets Wednesdays, 6:309:30 p.m., Connaught Youth Centre. Information: Sondra 250-963-9462 or Andrew 250-981-8270.
Thursday
Bingo, Jan. 16, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre. Whist, Jan. 16, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre.
Metis Elders Craft group, Thursday, 10 a.m.-noon, Prince George Metis Elders Society office, 117 – 1600 Third Ave. (Prince George Native Friendship Centre). Little Artists, Thursdays, 10:3011:30 a.m., South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle. Information: 250-6140684. Prince George Grassroots Cribbage Club registration, 6:30 p.m. play 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, 3701 Rainbow Dr. Information: Gerda 250564-8561. Tai chi, Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Knox United Church, 1448 Fifth Ave. Information: Lister 250964-3849 or listerchen@ shaw.ca. DayBreakers Toastmasters meets Thursday, 7-8 a.m., UHNBC Conference Room 1. Information: Heather 250-649-9591. BC Civil Liberties Union meets second Thursday of the month, 6 p.m., 1575 Fifth Ave. Plaza 400 Toastmaster Club meets Thursday, noon, Aleza room,
A U T O B O D Y LT D .
Community Builder
Members of the UNBC varsity basketball teams visited the paediatrics ward at the hospital Tuesday to distribute season tickets donated by KJM Sales.
Proud to recognize those who give in our community.
A U T O B O D Y LT D . 2065 - 1st Ave. • 250-563-0883 www.csninc.ca fourth floor, Plaza 400 building, 1011 4th Ave. Information: 6252. toastmastersclubs.org/ or 250-564-5191. Prince George Toastmasters meet Thursdays, 7:15 p.m., AiMHi, 950 Kerry St. Information: pgtoastmasters.com, Joyce 250-964-0961.
Old Time Fiddlers jam, Thursday, 7-10 p.m. Elder Citizens Rec Centre, 1692 10th Ave. ECRA Forever Young Chorus meet Thursdays, 12:45 p.m., ECRA, 1692 10th Ave.
Support Groups Prince George Stroke Survivors Group meets Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Elder Citizens Recreation Association, 1692 10th Ave. Information: Julia 250-563-3819, Roland 250-562-1747. La Leche League breast feeding support group meets the second Thursday of every month 7 p.m., 176 Aitken Cres.
Information: Tammy 250-612-0085. PGRH retirees breakfast, first Tuesday of the month, Prince George Golf and Curling Club. Information: 250563-2885. Prince George ATV Club meets third Tuesday of month, 7 p.m. Carmel Restaurant meeting room. Information: George 250-964-7907. Free sports and recreation, Wednesdays, 2 p.m., 1160 7th Ave., ages 15-30. Information: 250-656-5278. Children’s choir, Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Hartland Baptist Church. Information: 778-415-5000. Parents Together, a mutual/self-help support group for parents of teens, meets Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Intersect (basement entrance). Information: Carmen 250-562-6639. Tuesday night Tops (take off pounds sensibly) 6:15-7:15 p.m. weigh in, 7:30-
Thank You Prince George For Voting Us Best Auto Body Shop! 8:30 meeting. Everyone welcome. Information: Marvene 250-962-8001 or 250-612-2031. Prince George Healing Rooms - Are you hurting? Do you have health issues? Confidential prayers Wednesday noon-2 p.m, All Nations Church, 1395 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-6179653.
Heartbeat, a group for mutual support of those who have lost a loved one through suicide, meets monthly at CMHA office. Information: Sandy 250-961-9330. Thursday Tops (take off pounds sensibly) 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Knox United Church,1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-5646336 (days), 250-9644851 (evenings). Rainbows grief and loss program for ages 5-15, registering for the fall session. No charge. Information: Catherine 250-563-2551. Tea Time for the Soul. Would you like someone to listen to you? Come,
Best Auto Body Shop
listen, and share while enjoying a cup of tea. Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m. at Forest Expo House, 1506 Ferry Ave. No cost. For more information, Jesse or Catherine at 250-5632551. Singles and friends, social group of people of all ages and diverse backgrounds, meets Wednesdays, 7 p.m., A&W on 20th Avenue. Wednesday Tops (take off pounds sensibly) noon, AiMHi, 950 Kerry St. Information: Diane 250-964-6072.
Prostate Cancer Support Group meets 7 p.m., last Wednesday of the month, UNBC Community Care Centre in BMO Building. Information: www.pgpcsg.org or call 250-562-2825.. Learning Circle Literacy Program works with adult learners and families on literacy, numeracy and computing skills. Information: 250564-3568 ext. 228, or literacy@pgnfc.com.
The Community Datebook provides free community event listings every Friday. Submissions are accepted in written form only – dropped off, mailed or emailed – No Phone Calls please. Datebook runs as space allows, there is no guarantee of publication. Mail to 1773 South Lyon St., Prince George BC V2N 1T3. E-mail datebook@pgfreepress.com
18
Prince George -
Friday, January 10, 2014
CLASSIFIEDS - Free Press
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Free Press Press
Are you interested in excelling in a fast paced, challenging environment? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you. A well established Prince George truck & equipment dealer is currently seeking EQUIPMENT PARTS PERSON to join our team.
Reservoir Elevation: 850.88 m (2791.63 ft.) SLS Discharge: 33.21 m3/s Visit website www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time flow information for the Nechako River.
• This position pays $30.92 per hour for a Journeyman; all other Overtime is paid at double time. • Full dental and medical packages as well as an RRSP plan in place. • Long term commitment, including a training and career development program.
Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-5675105 for more information. A recording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250567-5812
Personals
It is agreed by any Display or Classi ed Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement.
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Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
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bcclassi ed.com cannot be responsible for errors after the rst day of publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors on the rst day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classi ed Department to be corrected for the following edition.
Career Opportunities
If you are a team player with a good work ethic, please forward resume to:
Jeff Morrison, Parts Manager 1995 Quinn Street Prince George, BC V2N 2X2 Fax: 250-562-6288 or by email: jmorrison@inland-group.com
Information ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis
Call Cheyenne Murray at 250-564-3568 ext 265 Or Email cmurray@pgnfc.com
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
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Positions available: Part time and Casual • Licensed Practical Nurses • Long Term Care Aides Send resumes: email: manager@schafferresidences.com fax: 250-962-9848 Attention: Ms. Debbie Schofield (Manager) 7780 Hart Hwy. Prince George, BC V2K 3B3 Tel: 250-962-9840 www.schafferresdences.com
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 432
ABORIGINAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT COUNSELLOR
The most effective way to reach an incredible number of BC Sportsmen & women. Two year edition- terrific presence for your business.
Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Do you think you may have a problem with Alcohol? Alcohol Anonymous, Box 1257, Prince George, BC V2L 4V5 Call 250-564-7550 NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE 2 January 2014 Reservoir Elevation: 850.94 m (2791.83 ft.) SLS Discharge: 33.35 m3/s Visit website www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time flow information for the Nechako River. Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-5675105 for more information. A recording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250567-5812
Obituaries
Florence Napier passed away suddenly Saturday, January 4, 2014 in her elder’s care facility. Florence’s husband; Uncle Bob (Robert Napier), sister; Margaret Jaffray and her nieces & nephews would like to invite you to her funeral, Monday, January 13, 2014 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Viewing begins at 9:00am, service at 11:00am followed by burial in the city cemetery. We will love and miss you Aunty Lala forever.
CERTIFIED ELECTRICIAN International Forest Products Limited (Interfor) is a growth-oriented lumber company with operations in Canada and the United States. The Company has annual production capacity of more than 2.2 billion board feet and offers one of the most diverse lines of lumber products to customers around the world. For more information about Interfor, visit our website at www.interfor.com. Interfor is currently recruiting for a Certi ed Electrician for our Grand Forks mill based in Grand Forks, BC. Grand Forks Interfor Ltd. facility’s has been recently upgraded to a very modern operation. The successful candidate must be a highly motivated team player, with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Alternate schedules and shift work will be required for a demanding, high paced environment. Excellent wages and bene t package as applicable in the United Steelworkers Local 1-423.
POSITION DETAILS: Required Competencies: • Must be a Certi ed Electrician (BC/IP) The ideal candidate will possess the following preferred quali cations: • Preference will be given to candidates who have Allen Bradley PLC experience and Motion control. Ability to troubleshoot VFD drives, optimizer systems, scanners and computer skills would be an asset. Preference will also be given to candidates who have experience in the lumber manufacturing industry. To express interest in this opportunity, please either apply online at www.interfor.com/careers, email: hank.randrup@interfor.com, complete an hourly application available at the Grand Forks Of ce or forward resume to Hank Randrup, Interfor Ltd, Box 39, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H0 by January 19, 2014 We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applicants offered a position must successfully complete a pre-employment drug test. Interfor is an Equal Opportunity Employer building a capable, committed, diverse workforce.
X CROSSWORD ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 696
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Prince George - CLASSIFIEDS - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
Travel
Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
Timeshare
Drivers/Courier/ Trucking
Drivers/Courier/ Trucking
Education/Trade Schools
Help Wanted
Labourers
LONG HAUL TRUCK DRIVERS
Food Safety is EVERYBODY’S Business
HOME INSPECTION COMPANY expanding into Prince George. ~All Training Included~
Call Dave for Franchise Presentation. 1.855.301.2233 www.bc.abuyerschoice.com
Career Opportunities THERE IS a critical need for Medical Transcriptionists across Canada. Work from home. CanScribe graduates welcome and encouraged to apply. Apply through MTR at www.hds-mt.com/jobs
Caretakers/ Residential Managers MOTEL ASST Manager Team to run small Motel in Parksville BC. Non-Smoking, no Pets, good Health, fulltime live-in position. Call 250-586-1633 or email: kjjr27@hotmail.com
Van Kam’s Group of Companies requires Highway linehaul Owner Operators based in our Prince George terminal for runs throughout BC and Alberta. Applicants must have winter and mountain, driving experience/training. We offer above average rates and an excellent employee benefits package.
To join our team of professional drivers, email a resume, current driver’s abstract & details of your truck to: careers@vankam.com Call: 604-968-5488 Fax: 604-587-9889
Help Wanted
Now accepting registration:
FoodSafe Level 1
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Education/Trade Schools
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Jan. 11, 2014 IMSS Building 1270 2nd Ave.
Jan. 22, 2014 AiMHi Building 950 Kerry St.
Feb. 8, 2014 IMSS Building 1270 2nd Ave.
Classes Run 8:30–5:00pm
lallytruckingltd@hotmail.com
Only those of interest will be contacted.
Group Rates Available
Diane Rosebrugh & Dick Rosebrugh, B.Ed.
ABC Foodsafe School www.abcfoodsafe.com info@abcfoodsafe.com
Fax: 250-563-2572
250-563-2585
www.pgfreepress.com
Haircare Professionals
Drivers/Courier/ Trucking EXPERIENCED CLASS 1 Drivers, F/T, P/T needed for California & Arizona produce hauling, excellent pay and benefits+ safety bonus and home time. Call Jerry or Brian 1-877-539-1750.
Northern Health announces a 5yr expiry date as of July 29, 2013.
Keeping Food Safe
Business Opportunities
www.
Employment
Lally Trucking Ltd. in Prince George is hiring 5 full-time long haul truck drivers. Requirements: •1 to 2 years experience •class 1 driver’s license Duties: •perform pre-trip inspection •maintain log book •load and unload cargo •follow safety procedures for transporting goods •communicate with dispatch and clients •reading of road maps for directions etc •strong English language skills Salary $23.00/hour with 40 hour work week. Interested applicants please email resume with driver’s abstract to:
HIGHWAY OWNER OPERATORS $3500 SIGNING BONUS
pgfreepress .com
CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance Payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.
Centre for Arts & Technology www.digitalartschool.com
voices
there’s more online »
Help Wanted
CHAIR RENTAL
LEARN FROM Home. Earn from home. Huge is a demand for Medical Transcriptionists. Start your online learning today with CanScribe Career College. www.canscribe.com 1-800-466-1535 info@canscribe.com.
Available in busy salon in Williams Lake. Please email rentalspacesalonspa@gmail.com
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
LABOURERS Houston, BC
N h Northern BC’s BC’ rst Persian restaurant, is hiring a cook to join our culinary team as well as kitchen help or cook assistant. Bring your resume to us in Parkwood Mall at #159, 1600 15th Avenue, Prince George, BC shiraz.cafe.pg@gmail.com Cleaning Supervisor req’d. Sal: $18.00/hr. F/T, Pmt. 1+ yrs. exp. Duties: Supervise and co-ordinate the activities of cleaners. Inspect & ensure of established safety and cleanliness standards are met. Recommend and arrange additional services. Hire, train and schedule staff. Estimate and optimize budget. May receive payments or perform cleaning duties. Lang: English, Contact: Shyama, Dependable Janitorial Services in Burnaby, BC. Work at various locations in Prince George, BC. Apply at dependable_janitorial@yahoo. ca or fax: 604.630.7275
James Western Star Truck & Trailer Ltd. in Williams Lake has an immediate opening for an experienced parts person. Full Time, competitive wages, benefits & signing bonus. Fax resume to: 250-398-6367 or email: nwejr@jamesws.com Would you like to swallow 20 pills every day, just to digest your food?
DH Manufacturing in Houston BC is looking for labourers. Must be reliable, physically fit and willing to work shift work. Starting wage up to $16.75/hr. Benefit package after 3 months employment. Email dhmnfg@gmail.com
EXPERIENCED MECHANIC REQUIRED SHOP, FIELD AND CAMP WORK Must be willing and able to work independently Drivers Licence required
Competitive Wages Please Fax resume to 250-692-0043 Or Deliver in Person at: 135 Roumieu Dr. Burns Lake (In the Industrial Site)
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Kode Contracting Ltd. is currently seeking a
Office Administrator/Bookkeeper We are an energetic & diverse, mid-size construction company specializing in aggregate production for the mining and forestry sectors. Knowledge & experience with construction equipment is an asset. Competence with accounting software & Excel spreadsheets required. Consideration will be given to those with a professional designation or in the 4th year of an accounting program. Duties & Responsibilities: - Cost coding & budget control - Contract & retail invoicing - Facilitation of bid-bonds, vehicle insurance, permits - Government reports, remittances & reconciliations (WCB, T-4s, etc) - Monthly financial statements on an accrual basis - Reports on equip/asset depreciation - Revenue & expense analysis - Preparation of year-end submissions to external accountants This is a full-time position. Wages are negotiable based on credentials. Health Benefit pkg is provided. Please submit your resume with references and a personally written cover letter to our office at 2951 North St, Prince George, B.C. V2N 5P9 or fax to 250-964-7015 or email to tkovach@kode.ca
Gitxsan Child & Family Services Society is a delegated agency based in beautiful Hazelton, BC. It is a rural agency serving the Gitxsan communities. We are surrounded by beautiful scenery, clean rivers and a thriving culture. We are seeking a qualified experienced Family Service Worker to join our dynamic team. The Family Service Worker is expected to carry a regular caseload, using clinical and interpersonal skills as well as good case management system to provide a variety of services. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the delivery of family support services to families and children who require them, guardianship services and the development and maintenance of caregiver homes. Qualifications: Bachelor of Social Work Degree or a Bachelor Degree in a human relates services field, plus two years related experience Requirements: We are looking for individuals who are delegated or are eligible to be delegated under the current Provincial (BC) Legislation. Willingness to travel. Have a valid BC driver’s license Must successfully pass a Criminal Records Check Knowledge of Gitxsan Culture and language would be an asset Qualified individuals interested in this opportunity should apply in writing, faxed or emailed with a copy of their resume and 3 references to: Christine Pearson-Bronsch Gitxsan Child & Family Services Society P.O. Box 333, HAZELTON, BC V0J 1Y0 Fax # 250-842-2481, Email: chris@gcfss.com DEADLINE for applications is 4:00 pm on January 17. 2014 Pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of Aboriginal Ancestry. Relocation Expenses can be negotiated. Only those who have made the shortlist will be contacted.
Services
Financial Services DROWNING IN Debt? Cut debts more than 60% and be debt free in half the time! Avoid bankruptcy! Free consultation. Toll Free 1-877-5563500 BBB Rated A+ www.mydebtsolution.com GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: it’s that simple. Your credit/age/income is not an issue. 1-800-587-2161.
Trades, Technical
Legal Services
HIRING in Fort St John, BC. MILL ELECTRICIANS w/ experience. Wage up to $50/hr, Housing & Benefits. Shift-7days on/ 7off. Email resume: tom@fsjelec.com or fax 250-630-2114 Ph: 250-2634350
CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind and a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.
JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages, relocation allowance, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrysler.ca Fax 403-854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net. Timber Baron in Terrace is looking for a motivated Heavy Duty Mechanic. 5 years experience working on hydraulics, processors, and excavators is reqd. Welding is an asset. Wages are based on experience. Home every night. Please send resume to Mike@timberbaron.ca
If you had cystic fibrosis, you’d have no choice.
Services
Alterations/ Dressmaking
Please help us.
1-800-378-CCFF • www.cysticfibrosis.ca
Gitxsan Child & Family Services Society Employment Opportunity Family Services Director
19
Misc. for Sale
FOUR SISTERS SEWING 250-564-4985
Misc. for Sale
TARPS! TARPS! “BEST PRICES IN TOWN!”
BLUE TARPS 10X8 weave (Medium Duty) STARTING AT $2.19
WHITE TARPS 10X10 weave (Heavy Duty)
STARTING AT $3.99
BLACK TARPS 14X14 weave (Industrial Duty)
STARTING AT $5.49
FOAM SHOP MATTRESS REPLACEMENTS SINGLE TO KING SIZE 2” TO 6” THICK - CUSTOM CUT OR CUSTOM ORDER MEMORY FOAM TOPPER PADS - 3LB DENSITY SINGLE TO KING SIZE - 2” & 3” THICK
CUSHION REPLACEMENTS TORN OR TATTERED? SOFAS, CHAIRS, OTTOMANS, SNOWMOBILES SEATS, TRACTORS
YOU NEED IT - WE WILL CUT IT!
CAMPING FOAM, MEDICAL WEDGES & BOLSTERS, PILLOWS
“ A CUT ABOVE THE REST” FIND US ON FACEBOOK
www.surplusherbys.com PRINCE GEORGE - 1175 2ND AVENUE
1-855-283-8150
Computer Services ENCLAVE MANAGED NETWORKS is rolling out the same great I.T. support for individuals as we do for our corporate clients, at a great price, too! See website for details: https://bcenclave.ca/bulletins/ newdeal
Courier/Delivery Services Grocery Delivery $30/$100 or $45/$200. Pick up & deliver up to 4 items for $5 Phone 250-301-8228 Mon-Sat 6:30 pm -11 pm
Landscaping Fall YARD CLEAN-UP Garbage Removal & Gutter Cleaning (250)961-3612 or (250)964-4758 res PAL’S MAINTENANCE
Painting & Decorating Paint Special 3 Rooms $589 incl. prem qlty paint, your color choices, 2 coats, filled nail holes. Ceiling & trim extra. Free Est. HB Tech Painting 250-649-6285
Merchandise for Sale
Misc. for Sale HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper? RESTLESS LEG Syndrome and leg cramps? Fast relief in one hour. Sleep at night. Proven for over 32 years. www.allcalm.com Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660. STEEL BUILDINGS, Metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206; www.crownsteelbuildings.ca STEEL BUILDING. The big year end clear out! 20x22 $4,259. 25x24 $4,684. 30x34 $6,895. 35x36 $9,190. 40x48 $12,526. 47x70 $17,200. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca
Misc. Wanted Private Coin Collector Buying Collections, Estates, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins, Bills etc. Confidential 778-281-0030
Store Equipment/ Fixtures SHARP PROGRAMMABLE er-a 440 cash registers in G/C Asking $125 each. Contacted Carters Jewelers 1-888-847-9766
Real Estate For Sale By Owner 2 bed/2 bath Condo underground parking with security gate. Killoren Cres. $140,00 OBO 250-612-9648 or 250612-0145
20
Prince George -
Friday, January 10, 2014
Rentals
Rentals
Transportation
Apt/Condo for Rent
Commercial/ Industrial
Wrecker/Used Parts
Midtowne
• 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available • Close to hospital & downtown • Rent includes heat, hot water • Elevator to undercover parking • Fridge, stove, quality carpets, drapes • Laundry on each floor • No pets
To Rent Call:
250-561-1447 HARDWOOD MANOR 1575 Queensway Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm Suites Heat/hot water included Adult Oriented/Students welcome Incentives for long-term students
Call (250)561-1446
Pine Grove Apts Clean 1 & 2 bdrm apts Student & other incentives No Dogs
Phone 250-563-2221
SUMMIT APTS
2666 Upland Street 1 & 2 bedroom apts. Rent includes: hydro, heat, hot water, appliances, drapes and parking. Quiet, no pets
250-564-3162
Majestic Management (1981) Ltd. CE • OFFI ERCIAL M • COM IL A • RET Space available for rent For all your rental needs Call 562-8343 or 562-RENT
Misc for Rent For Seniors 55+ 1 & 2- bdrm suites All utilities included except phone & internet. PLUS......
First months rent 1/2 Price!!! for a limited time
Call Theresa 250-962-5570
Shared Accommodation
CLASSIFIEDS - Free Press
USED TIRES Cars & Trucks $25 & up
Most Sizes Available
HOW TO PLAY:
15270 Hwy 97 South 250.963.3435
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3 x 3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3 x 3 box.
Legal
Legal Notices
Answer can be found in classifieds.
NOTICE IS GIVEN BY A1 Self Storage, under the Warehouse Lien Act, that a claim is made against the persons listed below for goods they have left in storage. If the storage fees and related costs are not paid in full, and the goods removed by Jan 23, then the goods will be sold by silent auction on Jan 26, 2014 at A1 Self Storage, 3632 Hart Hwy, PG Kathy Stadelman, James Sherwood, Bonita Dempsey, Roy Benson, Pamela Starnes, Art Schipfel, Amy Avery.
Legal Notices
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS
Transportation
RE: the estate of STEVE BENNIE VLCHEK also known as STEVE VLCHEK, deceased,
FREE SCRAP CAR REMOVAL within 15 km
P&R 250-963-3435 Email: prfleet@telus.net MEMBER OF AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLER’S
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOC.
“DO’IN IT RIGHT”
PUZZLE NO. 432
Quit. Before your time runs out.
2 bdrm apt to share with mature person. Smoker OK. St Laurant Manor 250-640-0986
Scrap Car Removal
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formerly of 4755 Leno Road, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 6E3 Creditors and others having claims against the estate of STEVE BENNIE VLCHEK also known as STEVE VLCHEK are hereby noti ed under section 38 of the Trustee Act that full particulars of their claims should be sent to the Executors at 4755 Leno Road, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 6E3, on or before February 14th, 2014, after which date the Executors will distribute the estate among the parties entitled to it, having regard only to the claims of which the Executors then have notice. GENEVIEVE MARGARET VLCHEK and STEVEN LEE VLCHEK, Executors TRAXLER HAINES, Solicitors
DEAR READERS In order for our carriers to be safe while delivering the Free Press, we ask that you please rid your walkways, driveways and stairs of snow and ice to avoid unnecessary slips and falls. “A special thank you to those residents who have already provided a safe route to their mailbox for our carriers!” - Circulation Manager
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Prince George -
SPORTS - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
21
Doing a halfway check on the Canadian NHL teams NHL teams are just past the midway point of their 82 game schedule. Two of the seven Canadian teams (Vancouver and Montreal) are in good position to make the playoffs; two more (Toronto and Ottawa) are on the “bubble”; while the other three (Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton) appear out of the running. Here’s a closer look: (Stats are following games Jan. 7) Vancouver: The Canucks remain a solid team but their lineup doesn’t scare the opposition. Does any logical fan really believe they are a Cup contender? Perhaps, a good sign is their road record HART BEAT HARTLEYMILLER (12-7-4) is similar to their play at home (11-6-5). Ex-P.G. Cougars captain Dan Hamhuis of Smithers is thriving under coach John Tortorella. The 31-yearold Hamhuis leads Vancouver in ice time (24:16 per game) and in plus-minus (+10) and was rewarded for his strong two-way game when he was one of eight defencemen selected to the Canadian Olympic team. Secondary scoring and depth on defence remain areas of concern for the Canucks, who lead the league on the penalty kill, but are near the bottom of the playoff contenders on the power play. Grade: B Montreal: Like the Canucks, the Habs’ home (13-7-3) and away (12-7-2) records are comparable. Carey Price (.928 save percentage) was an easy choice for the Canadian Olympic Team. Front-line scoring for Montreal is a major issue as no player is close to a point per game pace. The team’s top scorer and plus minus leader is last year’s Norris Trophy winner, P.K. Subban. As much as I like coach Michel Terrien’s admirable job, the roster is far from a championship level. Grade: B Toronto: The Maple Leafs give up more shots than any other team, but are in a playoff position thanks largely to their goaltending. Jonathan Bernier has a very good save percentage (.926) and the underappreciated James Reimer isn’t far behind (.923). Phil Kessel is the Leafs’ only game breaker and captain Dion Phaneuf leads in plus-minus (+12), but will he keep it up after signing that massive 7-year, $49 million extension? Like most of the Eastern teams, Toronto has given up more goals than they have scored. Grade: C Ottawa: The Senators are one of the many teams that likely won’t know if they get to join the post-season party until the final week. Sniper Bobby Ryan was snubbed by the U.S. Olympic team and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he responds with a strong second half. It’s a head scratcher how leading scorer Erik Karlsson is minus 12, with high end forwards Jason Spezza minus 14 and Milan Michalek minus 17 while other key forwards like Kyle Turris and Clarke MacArthur are plus 15 and plus 12 respectively. The Senators have R U N • S K I • S W I M • A P PA R E L
OR IA
15TH AVE
SPRUCE
17TH AVE
REDWOOD VICTORIA
UPLAND
X VALUE STRIDE & GLIDE SPORTS VILLAGE TAMARACK
A Canadian team has not won the Stanley Cup since 1993. Based on the first half of the 2013-14 season, there is no indication of that drought coming to an end. Hartley Miller is the sports director for radio stations 94X and the Wolf@97fm. He also writes for hqprincegeorge. com. Send along a quote, note, or anecdote to hmiller@94xfm.com. Follow him on twitter: @Hartley_Miller
Snow Shoe Children & Adult Ski Packages Available! Sales, Rentals and Service
Larry’s
HEAVY HAULING (1990 LTD)
1.800.616.1338
TOLL FREE
CARRIERS
WA N T E D CALL TODAY! • 250-564-0504 • CALL TODAY!
COLLEGE HEIGHTS AREA HART AREA WESTWOOD/CENTRAL AREA VAN BIEN/VLA AREA FOOTHILLS/TABOR AREA UNBC/TYNER BLVD AREA Delivery day is every Friday For more Information call: Roy
250 564-0504 circulation@pgfreepress.com
S
P
O
R
T
S
1655A 15th Ave. Prince George (Across from Parkwood Mall) www.strideandglide.ca • 1-866-612-4754 • 250-612-4754 PHONE ORDERS WELCOME
For more informa on call: Norm at 250-963-7417 or Val at 250-564-8293
www.CustomStitchPG.com
requires full time Class 1 Drivers. Log hauling & lowbedding experience an asset. Please fax or email resume to: Fax: 250-563-1591 email: nmyers.larrys@telus.net
or email:
Stride & Glide
The Sons of Norway Ski Club will hold its annual Birchleg ski tour on Sunday, January 19th beginning at 10:30 A.M. The loca on will be at our Hickory Wing parking area 5Km East of Tabor Mountain Resort along Highway 16. This is a family event and is not a race. There will be skiing and snowshoe opportuni es and hot drinks and hot dogs will be supplied. A dona on box will be available for those wishing to contribute to our trail maintenance program.
CLASS 1 DRIVERS
N VICT
WINN
IPEG
PARKWOOD SHOPPING CENTRE
allowed the second most goals in the East. Grade: C Winnipeg: There isn’t much to like about the Jets, unless one wants to compare them to the Alberta teams. How forward Blake Wheeler rates ahead of Ryan on the American Sochi team remains a puzzle. Ondrej Pavelec is one of the most overrated goalies in the league. He plays the majority of the Winnipeg games, yet has a save percentage barely above .900 and a GAA over 3. A couple of former P.G. Cougars are on the team. Defenceman Dustin Byfuglien is tied for the Jets scoring lead and tops the club in ice time, but is minus 16. Devin Setoguchi is only averaging just under half a point per game but is a plus one. Grade: D +. Calgary: It’s a sad state for the Flames, and with Brian Burke in charge the future does not look promising. When Chris Butler (-16) is playing 20 minutes per game on the back end and Lee Stempniak (-20) is playing nearly 19 minutes up front, one knows this team is far from competitive. Credit Jiri Hudler, their top scorer and most consistent player, although he is probably wishing he was back in Detroit. Grade: DEdmonton: The Oilers are the most underachieving NHL team and that’s not up for debate. Coach Dallas Eakins has had difficulty adjusting to the league and still doesn’t know how to best use 2012 first overall pick Nail Yakupov (team worst -24). Edmonton is last in goals allowed. At least the Flames try to compete night in and night out. The same cannot be said for the Oilers, who remain a “mess”. Grade: F
22
Prince George - SPORTS - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
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Welcome Wagon is looking for energetic people to meet and greet new comers to their community as well as a special event coordinator. Must be good with people, have a reliable dedicated vehicle, some evening and weekends will be required. You have sales knowledge and experience, you are organized and have lived in the Prince George area for 5+ years. Training is provided, team work is essential but you must be disciplined and able to work on your own. Welcome Wagon offers a great place to create, learn, mingle and grow with your community and Welcome Wagon. Are you retired but not tired? and looking for some extra cash or are you a stay at home mom returning to the work force, these positions may be perfect for you! The positions are paid by commission and allow for tax benefits as a commissioned agent with CRA (home office and vehicle expenses. For more information please visit the Welcome Wagon web site at www.welcomewagon.ca If you think all of the above sounds interesting, come join the over 700 Reps across Canada. Apply with a current and relevant resume and cover letter to ojboissoneault@welcomewagon.ca
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Locals do well at Otway Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com Andrew Casey saw more of his skiers on the weekend than he usually does at a race. “Having it here brings out more numbers,� says the head coach of the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club. “You get some out of the kids out who don’t travel to competitions that much.� The Otway Ski Centre hosted the first races in the TECK BC Cup on the weekend, and Casey says everything went off well. “I thought it was fantastic. The weather was supernice, the trails were packed firm. It was almost perfect conditions.� The races on the weekend were the first in the three-part BC Cup series, and a number of local racers who did well last year showed moving up an age group wasn’t going to slow them down. “Erica Kreitz (Junior Girls) won her event on Sunday in the classic technique. Kaia Andal (Juvenile Girls) was second on Saturday in the sprint, and Damian Georgyev (Bantam Boys) was second on Sunday. All of those skiers moved up a level this year, which meant they were competing against skiers a year older than they are, so those results were great.� Emily Dickson, competing in her second year in Junior Girls, was first on Saturday and third on Sunday. The next BC Cup races are in Kamloops on Jan. 25 and 26, but Casey is hoping to have his skiers racing each weekend between now and then. “The best way to get better at races is to race.� Other wins for Caledonia Nordic members were Payton Sinclair, Saturday and Sunday in Atom Girls 3; Isla Cadell, Saturday and Sunday in Atom Girls 1; Stephanie Horning, Saturday in Pee Wee Girls 2; Mya Blackburn, Saturday and Sunday in Pee Wee Girls 1; Jacquelyn Benson, Saturday in Masters Women 30-39 and Sunday in Open Women 23+; Jacqui Pettersen, Saturday and Sunday in Masters Women 40-49; Allan WISHART/Free Press Nathan Blok, Saturday in Masters Men 30-39; WilLiam Sinclair of the host Caledonia Nordic Ski Club hits the trail lard Andal Sunday in Junior Men 2; and John Hagen, Sunday morning in the second stage of the Teck BC Cup crosscountry races held at Otway on the weekend. Sunday in Masters Men 40-49.
Cariboo Cougars back on ‘home’ ice to resume league play The Cariboo Cougars resume BC Major Midget Hockey League action this weekend with a pair of home games, one of which won’t be in their regular home. Saturday’s game against the Vancouver NE Chiefs will be at 2:15 p.m. at the
Schaffer Residence at The Hart Proud to be Serving the Community of Prince George
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Coliseum, as CN Centre is hosting a concert that evening. The Cougars will be back at CN Centre on Sunday morning for the rematch, set for 10 a.m.
UNBC ON COURT The UNBC Timberwolves basketball teams are back in action after the Christmas break. The Wolves hosted Calgary Thursday night and play Lethbridge Saturday. The women’s game tips off at 6 p.m., with the men to follow at 8 p.m.
RINGETTE Several Prince George ringette teams were in Quesnel on the weekend for the Gold Pan North-
ern League Tournament. The U14 All Rhodes Pilot Service-Hart Modular Homes team were undefeated, downing Houston twice by 4-1 and 8-6 scores, and beating Quesnel 10-5 and tying the same team 10-10. Keira Meroniuk was the top scorer on the weekend with 11 goals. Two local teams were in the U10 division. Ray’s Stucco and Integris Credit Union lost to PPWC Local 9 and Integris Credit Union 16-9 and dropped a close one to Houston 11-10. In that game, the winning goal wa scored with less than five seconds to go. PPWC Local 9 lost twice to Quesnel by 11-9 and 9-5 scores, and beat Houston 9-7.
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Residential / Complex Care, Alzheimer's / Memory care Respite for short term stays We offer: Secure facility, Single / Double rooms, 24-hour nursing care & treatment, three nutritionally balanced meals per day, personal laundry and bed linen services. Recreation and social activities. Personal care programs developed to meet the long term care needs of our residents The residence has ready access to many essential services within Prince George, to the General Hospital, Physician offices, shopping and senior centers.
The City of Prince George Aquatics and Save On Foods would like to ensure you are an active part of the community.
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SPORTS - Free Press
Friday, January 10, 2014
23
Newest Spruce King out Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com It didn’t take long for Caleb Thompson and Cooper Rush to join their new teams. The Prince George Spruce Kings traded Thompson and future considerations to the Chilliwack Chiefs on the weekend for Rush. “Caleb rode with us on the bus to the rink,” Spruce Kings coach Dave Dupas said, “then he collected his stuff and headed for the Chiefs dressing room. Rush came to the rink, picked up his stuff and came to our room.” The Kings, with Rush in the lineup, downed the Chiefs 3-0 to salvage the final game of a three-game road trip to open the new year. “Sometimes that’s the way it happens,” Dupas said of the way the trade worked out. “It happens pretty quick.” It was tough to give up Thompson in the trade, he said, but it was probably best for the player. “He wasn’t getting enough icetime with us, especially as a 19 year old. With the Chiefs, he should have more time on the ice.”
While the Spruce Kings are home this weekend to play Surrey on Friday and Saturday, fans will have to wait to get their first look at Rush. “He got clipped n the knee partway through the game,” Dupas said. “He’s probably going to be out for a while. He stayed down there to get it assessed.” The Kings opened the weekend by losing 2-1 in Powell River and 5-2 to Alberni Valley. Dupas said he may have made the wrong choice in coming back from the holiday break. “We batted around the idea of having more practices coming back, or giving the players some more rest. Kind of rust vs. rest. I thought the rest would help, but we just didn’t have the legs as the first two games went along.” Jesse Jenks was in goal for all three games, including the Sunday shutout, as Alex Murray continues to recover from an injury. Dupas hopes Murray is available for this weekend’s games. The doubleheader will be the last time the Spruce Kings see Surrey, a Mainland Division foe, this season. “It’s been a strange schedule,” Dupas said. “We play Langley and Chilliwack, I think, 10 of our last 20 games, including
Sunday-2 Services Jenna HAUCK/Free Press
Cooper Rush, right, shown here in a fight with Demico Hannoun of the Vernon Vipers, has been acquired by the Prince George Spruce Kings in a trade with the Chilliwack Chiefs.
Langley five of the last eight. “If we’re still fighting for first place, those will be big.” Faceoff against the Surrey Eagles is set for 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Coliseum.
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After goalfest, Cougars drop shootout to Seattle
On Tuesday night, the Prince George Cougars and Seattle Thunderbirds kept the goal judges at CN Centre busy in a 9-7 win for Seattle. The red lights weren’t flashing quite as frequently on Wednesday, as the T-birds completed a sweep of the Cougars with a 2-1 win in a shootout. After a scoreless first period Wednesday, Alexander Delnov got Seattle on the scoreboard six minutes into the second period. That was all the scoring until just past the 12-minute mark of the third, when Klarc Wilson tied the score for the Cougars. After that, goalies Ty Edmonds for Prince George and Danny Mumaugh for Seattle did what they had been doing the rest of the game: kept the puck out of the net. After a scoreless overtime, the teams went to the shootout. Both Edmonds and Mumaugh stopped the first three shots, before Sam McKechnie scored for the T-birds and Jordan Tkatch was unable to
X CROSSWORD
respond for Prince George. The Cougars are on the road this weekend, playing in Vancouver tonight (Friday) and in Kamloops on Saturday. Their next home games are Jan. 17 and 18 against the Edmonton Oil Kings at CN Centre.
WEEKLY TIPS!
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With the winter travelling season upon us, here are a couple of tips for preventing water damage when leaving your home unattended: • Close and lock all doors, windows, skylights and vents to keep out wind and wind-driven rain • Don’t turn the thermostat off, instead leave it set to at least 18 degrees Celsius • Turn the temperature control on your water heater to a vacation setting • If your house has a water softener, shut off its supply line
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•If leaving for an extended period of time, the best protection is to shut the water off and drain water lines.
If you choose to leave water service on, take the following precautions: • Insulate pipes in your home’s crawl spaces and attic and especially in a garage or basement next to an outside wall during the winter • Wrap heating tape or cables around water pipes to prevent pipes from freezing • Turn off the water supply to individual fixtures like your washing machine, icemaker, toilets and sinks • Consider installing an electronic leak detection system
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Play unit “Curly ____” Part of rpm Assumed name State-sponsored drawings 6. Foot digit 7. Switch positions 8. Counter seat 9. Cleaned 10. Land measure 11. Peat ____
16. TV alien 19. Venice, e.g. 20. Lump of dirt 21. Greasy 22. Attempt 23. Top prize: 2 wds. 26. ____ at ease 28. Identical 29. Revolve 31. Cast off 35. Knights’ titles 37. Affirmatives 39. Come up 40. Year portions 41. Burn reliever 44. Scarlet 45. “Car 54, Where ____ You?” 46. ____-been 47. Antlered animal 48. Eavesdrop
• Don’t leave appliances (dishwasher, washing machine or dryer) running when you leave, and check to make sure toilets aren’t running • Make sure the sump pump is working, especially in late winter or early spring when melting snow or heavy rain increases the risk of basement flooding PROUD MEMBER OF
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Friday, January 10, 2014
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Keeping the Scotties on ice Allan Wishart allanw@pgfreepress.com There are benefits to having B.J. Gagnon’s job. “I’ve been to more Briers than most curlers,” says Gagnon, sitting in the lounge area of the Prince George Golf and Curling Club on Wednesday morning. He hasn’t been playing in those Briers, but he has made it possible for those Briers to be played. Gagnon is an ice technician, and a top one. “I’m the head provincial ice technician, I’m a national technician with the Canadian Curling Association, and I’m a head ice technician with the World Curling Federation.” So it’s no surprise Gagnon is in Prince George this week, making sure the ice for the Scotties BC Women’s Curling Championships is the best it can be. “I got here last Friday morning, and went to work. We worked straight through until they started practices on Sunday afternoon. “Then we’ve tweaked it come since then, but nothing major.” For most of the curlers at the Scotties, knowing Gagnon is in charge of the ice means they have a good idea what to expect. “All of them, I’ve made ice for when they were playing as juniors. Shawna Jensen just came here from the Juniors, and after the first time on the ice here she said, ‘It’s exactly the same as what it was at Juniors’.” Gagnon is a third-generation ice technician, working at it since 1968, and his son is following in his footsteps. “The technology has changed so much since I started,” he says. That point is echoed as a beeping sound comes from his pocket. He fishes out his smartphone and checks it. “I don’t have to anywhere specific to be able to check on the ice,” he says, showing what the ice temperature and humidity are at a number of points on the local surface. He hits another link. “This is the ice surface in Van-
Allan WISHART/Free Press
Skip Patti Knezevic, right, and third Jen Rusnell discuss a shot during the all-Prince George match Wednesday at the Scotties BC Women’s Curling Championships. Tracey Jones, left, and her foursome, including third Falon Burkitt, edged Knezevic 8-7.
couver they’re going to be playing the outdoor game itself.” hockey game on. Even the rocks being used this week for the “I’ve been in hundreds of Scotties are old friends. rinks around the world, and I “We’ve been using these stones can call almost any of them up since 1996, so the curlers know what and look at what’s happening they’re going to do. They don’t have with the ice.” to spend a lot of time figuring the So what is Gagnon ice? rocks out.” “We’ve got about five feet Prince George skips Patti of curl here this week, and it’s Knezevic and Tracey Jones played about 15 seconds from hogline each other in the Wednesday mornto hogline, which is very fast.” ing draw. They both liked the ice Having a good idea of what conditions. the ice conditions will be before “It can be a bit tricky at times,” ICE TECH they even step on the ice takes Knezevic said. “There are some big B.J. GAGNON swings at times, which gives you one worry off the minds of the curlers, Gagnon says. more shots to think about.” “It takes some of the stress and strain off Jones agreed, and noted there was no homethem. It leaves them free to concentrate on the ice advantage for the teams.
“This ice is a lot different from what we’re to here, but it’s been consistent from game to game, which is what you’re looking for.” This is the first time Gagnon has made ice at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club, but not the first time he’s been in Prince George. “The last time I was in Prince George was for the 2000 Scotties, but those were at CN Centre.” He likes what he’s seen of the curling club facilities. “It’s a concrete building, which helps. We had a sellout crowd here (Tuesday), and the ice didn’t change at all.” The Scotties is a test event for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, and Gagnon may be back for that. “I’ve been saying I’m in semi-retirement, but so far that isn’t working out too well.”