Prince George Citizen January 27, 2022

City has pile of cash left over, council told

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

Year-end projections show the City of Prince George will not need to use roughly $3 million from the Provincial Safe Restart Grant authorized by city council last year.

In 2021, city council authorized use of the grant money to prevent a tax increase in the 2021 budget year. Director of finance Kris Dalio said the city’s 2021 budget was very conservative because of the unknowns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

level they think is appropriate.”

Reducing the 2022 tax increase from the proposed 6.55 per cent to three per cent would require more than $4.05 million.

Babicz outlined the measures taken by the city to control costs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In November 2020, eight management and four unionized positions were eliminated, resulting in $1.55 million in annual savings.

I would not expect the city to come millions of dollars under budget again.”

In 2020, each department looked at non-labour expenses and suspended spending on items including training, travel and conference attendance.

The city was able to reopen many facilities and generated more revenue than projected, he said.

“I would not expect the city to come millions of dollars under budget again,” Dalio added. “This was a onetime thing.”

That leaves roughly $6.11 million available to the city for the 2022 budget year.

The city received the funding in 2020 from the provincial government for municipalities hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There is very little that a local government can not use this money for,” city manager Walter Babicz said. “That would enable council to consider again the use of the Safe Restart funding to reduce the tax levy to a

In addition, other expenses were reviewed and eliminated on a permanent basis. The review resulted in nearly $350,000 in annual savings.

Furthermore, management/exempt staff and mayor and council received a zero per cent cost-of-living increase in 2020 and 2021, saving approximately $500,000 in operating costs.

More than $365,500 in additional cost savings were found in 2021.

In 2021, further organizational structure changes were implemented resulting in a total of $365,592 in operating cost reductions.

In total, the city reduced its annual operating budget by $2.75 million.

“That’s $2.7 million we don’t have to talk about in the coming days,” Coun. Terri McConnachie said.

WHAT:

Public Hearings regarding:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS / CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

•Proposed amendments to “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”

•Proposed “City of Prince George Land Use Contract Discharge Bylaw No. 9213, 2021”

City Council consideration of applications:

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000020

•Proposed amendment to “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”

WHEN:

Monday,February 7, 2022

WHERE:

Council Chambers of City Hall, 2nd Floor,1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC

PROPOSALS:

1. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9247, 2021”

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Applicant: L&M Engineering Ltd. for 1187150 B.C. Ltd., Inc. No. BC1187150

Subject Properties: 7215 and 7163 Kelly Road

Bylaw No. 9247, 2021 proposes to rezone the subject properties from AF: Agricultureand Forestry to RM3: Multiple Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9247, 2021, and to remove the subject properties from the Home Business Overlay (HBO) on Schedule “B”, as shown on Appendix “B” to Bylaw No. 9247, 2021.

The purpose of this application is to facilitate the development of acongregate seniors housing facility comprised of amix of small scale housing forms on the subject properties, or other uses, pursuant to the proposed RM3: Multiple Residential zoning designation.

The proposed Bylaw applies to the properties legally described as Lots 2and 3, District Lot 4048, Cariboo District, Plan 8970, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #1 below

Location Map #1 7215 and 7163 Kelly Road

2. “City of Prince George Land Use Contract Discharge Bylaw No. 9213, 2021

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Applicant: Herbert J. Millar for Jack and Jill Laundry &Dry Cleaners Ltd., Inc. No. BC0499912

Subject Properties: 2000 Victoria Street and 1495 20th Avenue

Bylaw No. 9213, 2021 proposes to discharge the Land Use Contract registered on title of the subject properties under the Land Title and Survey Authority registration number: G1342, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9213, 2021.

The Land Use Contract registered on the subject properties limits the Land Use to automobile dealership and includes development and infrastructureregulations. The purpose of this application is to discharge the Land Use Contract thereby allowing the subject properties to be regulated under the “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007”.

The proposed Bylaw applies to the properties legally described as Lot A, District Lot 932, Cariboo District, Plan 20192 and Lots 37 and 38, Block 1, District Lot 932, Cariboo District, Plan 796, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #2 below

Location Map #2

2000 Victoria Street and 1495 20th Avenue

3. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9260, 2021”

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Applicants: Jaswinder Raju for Rupinder Raju and Neelam Raju

Subject Property: 7023 Irene Road

Bylaw No. 9260, 2021 proposes to rezone the subject property from RS1m: Suburban Residential to RS2: Single Residential and RT1: Two-Unit Residential, as shown on Appendix “A” to Bylaw No. 9260, 2021.

The purpose of this application is to facilitate afuturefour (4) lot subdivision for three (3) single family dwellings and one (1) two-unit house on the subject property,orother uses, pursuant to the proposed RS2: Single Residential and RT1: Two-Unit Residential zoning designation.

The proposed Bylaw applies to the property legally described as Lot 9, District Lot 1599, Cariboo District, Plan 10790, as shown outlined in bold black on Location Map #3 below

Location Map #3 7023 Irene Road

4. “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9262, 2021”

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Applicant: Thrive Liquor &Cannabis Advisors for Copilot Cannabis on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen in Right of Canada as Represented By the Minister of Transport

Subject Property: 4141 Airport Road

Bylaw No. 9262, 2021 proposes to amend “City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007” by adding “Retail, Cannabis” as asecondary use, only on the subject property,tofacilitate a retail cannabis store, or other uses, pursuant to the Z1: Airport zoning designation.

The proposed retail cannabis storewill be located within an existing tenancy space in the Prince George Airport Terminal.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS / CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

4.1 “Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000020”

Concurrent with the rezoning application, the applicant has applied to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for aCannabis Licence for anon-medical retail cannabis storeonthe subject property.The applicant has successfully completed the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch financial integrity check and security screening for anon-medical cannabis retail store.

The proposed hours of service areMonday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaw and Cannabis Licence Application apply to the property legally described as Lot A, District Lots 626, 627, 629, 630 and 631, Cariboo District, Plan EPP49265, as shown outlined in bold black on the Location Map #4 below

Notice of City Council’sdecision will be forwarded to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for their review and final determination on this application

Location Map #4 4141 Airport Road

HOW CAN IPARTICIPATEAND PROVIDE COMMENT?

Residents areinvited to provide comments to Council by the methods noted below

On January 10, 2022 Council gave first and second reading to proposed Bylaw No. 9247, 2021 and pursuant to section 464(2) of the Local Government Act waived the requirements for aPublic Hearing to be held regarding this application.

Residents wishing to provide comments to Council on the following bylaw and application may only do so by submitting written comments:

•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9247, 2021”; and

•Cannabis Licence Application No. CN000020.

Residents wishing to provide comments to Council on the following bylaws may do so by submitting comments in writing, via telephone, or in person during the Public Hearing:

•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9262, 2021”;

•“City of Prince George Zoning Bylaw No. 7850, 2007, Amendment Bylaw No. 9260, 2021”; and

•“City of Prince George Land Use Contract Discharge Bylaw No. 9213, 2021”.

WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS

For written submissions to be included on the agenda for Council’sreview in advance of their

consideration of the bylaw(s) and/or application(s), they must be received by the Corporate Officer no later than 5:00 p.m., Tuesday,February 1, 2022.Written submissions received after the noted deadline and before 3:00 p.m., Monday,February 7, 2022 will be provided to Council on the day of the meeting for their consideration during deliberations on the application.

Written submissions may be sent by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca, faxed to (250)561-0183, or mailed or delivered to the address noted below

Written submissions will form part of the Council agenda, become public record, and areposted on the City’swebsite. By making awritten submission you areconsenting to the disclosureof any personal information that you provide.

ATTEND BY TELEPHONE

In an effort to provide the public with options to speak to Council on aPublic Hearing application, the City offers remote participation via telephone during Public Hearings. Residents areencouraged to pre-register on the City’swebsite (www.princegeorge.ca/publichearings) and to dial into the meeting at least 10 minutes beforethe start of the Public Hearing by calling 1-877-708-3350, Access Code: 1269574#.

ATTEND IN PERSON

Residents areinvited to provide comments to Council in person during the Public Hearing in Council Chambers on the 2nd Floor of City Hall at 7:00 p.m. on Monday,February 7, 2022

The City of Prince George follows the orders of the Provincial Health Officer and guidelines regarding gatherings and events. WherePublic Hearings arerequired to be held, measures have been put in place to support the health and the safety of members of the public attending the Public Hearing to provide comments.

City of Prince George open Council meetings arepublic and may be televised, streamed live by webcast, recorded, and archived on the City’swebsite for viewing by the public. By attending an open Council meeting or making asubmission at aPublic Hearing you areconsenting to the disclosureofany personal information that you provide.

For moredetailed information on providing submissions to Council, please visit www.princegeorge.ca/publichearings.

Authority

Personal information is collected under the authority of section 26(g) and disclosed under the authority of section 33.1(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). For information or questions, contact the City’sFIPPACoordinator at (250)561-7600 or 1100 Patricia Boulevard, Prince George, BC, V2L 3V9.

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

Acopy of the proposed Bylaw(s) and other related documents will be available for review by the public on the City’swebsite www.princegeorge.ca under ‘News and Notices’ beginning Wednesday,January 26, 2022.These documents may also be reviewed at the Development Services office on the 2nd Floor of City Hall on January 26, 27, 28, 31, February 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7, 2022, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m

WHO CAN ISPEAK TO?

For moreinformation, please contact Development Services in person, by telephone at (250)561-7611 or by email to devserv@princegeorge.ca.

For questions related to Public Hearing participation and procedures, please contact the Legislative Services Division by telephone (250)561-7793 or by email to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE

The City is seeking residents interested in serving on the following Boards and Committees:

Tourism Prince George Society BoardofDirectors– One (1) Vacancy

The Boardmeets six times annually and is responsible for establishing the strategic direction for Tourism Prince George in order to best achieve its goals related to the promotion and marketing of Prince George to visitors.

The City is accepting applications to fill one (1) vacancy for atwo-year term beginning in April 2022 and ending in 2024. Applications will be considered from individuals who clearly articulate on their application their proven expertise, experience, and representation in the Attractions Sector

Advisory Committee on Accessibility –Five (5) Vacancies

This Committee meets the first Thursday of each month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and is responsible for providing advice to City Council and soliciting feedback from the community on matters that affect persons with disabilities, seniors, and those with access challenges, including identification, removal and prevention of physical and social barriers. The Committee is actively involved in working with City Council to increase public awareness of the issues of accessibility and inclusion in the community

The City is accepting applications to fill five (5) vacancies for two-year terms beginning April 1, 2022 and ending March 31, 2024.

Advisory Committee on Development Design -Four (4) Vacancies

This Committee meets Wednesdays from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (as needed) to provide advice to City Council on matters respecting policies and guidelines affecting the City’sphysical/built environment as well as applications for development permits in accordance with the Committee Terms of Reference. The Committee serves to encourage well-planned development in the city that considers the areas of public health, safety,convenience, climate, accessibility and aesthetics.

Applications will be considered from individuals who clearly articulate on their application their proven expertise, experience, certification and/or representation in the category to which they areapplying:

•Registered professional planner;

•Landscape professional;

•Professional engineer,orprofessional engineering representative associated with building construction and site development;

•Architectural or design representative associated with building construction and site development in the City of Prince George;

•Representative with experience in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED);

•Appointed representative from the Canadian Homebuilders Association of NorthernBCorthe

BC NorthernReal Estate Board;

•Appointed representative from the Prince George Council of Seniors; or

•Public at Large.

Applicants representing the Canadian Homebuilders Association of NorthernBC, BC Northern Real Estate Board, or the Prince George Council of Seniors must submit, at the time of application, aletter from the organization verifying that you areaconfirmed representative of that organization.

The City is accepting applications to fill four (4) vacancies for two-year terms beginning April 1, 2022 and ending March 31, 2024.

How to Apply

Individuals interested in serving on these Boards or Committees must be available to attend regularly scheduled meetings and be willing to actively participate in projects that the respective board/committee undertakes throughout the year

Application forms may be completed and submitted online (www.princegeorge.ca/committees), picked up from and delivered to the Legislative Services Division, 5th Floor,City Hall, or emailed to cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

Deadline for Applications: 5:00 p.m., Friday,February 25, 2022

For any questions, or to have an application form mailed to you, please contact the Legislative Services Division at (250) 561-7655 or cityclerk@princegeorge.ca.

Pay parking at hospital set to return in March

Pay parking will be reinstated at B.C. hospitals on March 4.

“Maintaining across-the-board free hospital parking is making it hard for patients, staff, volunteers and visitors to find a spot, as non-hospital users are taking advantage of the situation to park for free while conducting business that’s not hospital related,” said Minister of Health Adrian Dix in a statement. “These hospital parking spots must be available for those who need them most.”

Free parking at provincial healthcare facilities will continue for patients

receiving dialysis treatment or undergoing cancer treatment in acute-care programs, and for parents or caregivers of children staying in the hospital overnight. Volunteers will still be able to park for free, and financial hardship provisions will continue to be managed on a case-bycase basis by health authorities. Fees have been waived since April 1, 2020 as part of the effort to reduce spread of COVID-19. Some $78 million in fees have been waived since that date. Parking rates have been frozen for more than four years and this freeze will continue.

Cold boosts auto thefts

The extreme cold in Prince George brought with it an unfortunate side effect – an increase in auto theft.

Since the beginning of November 2021, vehicle theft has risen by 50 per cent in Prince George.

The common theme among these thefts: the vehicles were idling with the keys in the ignition. While the extreme cold temperatures make it tempting to leave your vehicle idling to warm up,

without a remote start or other anti-theft device, they become an easy target for theft.

In addition to vehicle-theft rising, the location of the thefts has shifted. While in 2020 most vehicles were stolen from store parking lots, this past year 75 per cent of the vehicles stolen were sitting in residential driveways, and none of the vehicles were left unattended for more than 15 minutes.

REQUEST FOR COMMENT

rezoning application (Bylaw 9203, 2021).

For moredetailed information, please visit the City of Prince George website at www.princegeorge.ca/landuse.

Subject Property –9048 Sintich Road

The City of Prince George is proposing an amendment to Schedule B-6: Future Land Use of City of Prince George Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 8383, 2011, to facilitate development of ahydrogen service station and contractor service on the subject property.This application to amend the Official Community Plan also includes a

The City requests written comment from any person, organization, or agencies that may be affected by this amendment. Please forwardany written submissions by 9:00 am, February 18, 2022 to the Development Services Division at 1100 Patricia Boulevard, PG V2L 3V9, Fax: 561-7721, Email: devserv@princegeorge.ca.

Resident wins $131K

Prince George resident Anthony Gartner says he is feeling a rollercoaster of emotions after winning $131,378.20 from the December 3 2021 Lotto Max draw.

“I didn’t know if I should laugh or cry… I felt kind of dumb-founded that I actually won,” he recalled of his initial reaction. “Words can’t describe this feeling.”

He purchased his ticket from Walmart on Southridge Avenue and was at home when he found out the good news, after checking the winning numbers online.

‘Today is about truth’

Prince George school district raises Lheidli T’enneh memorial flag

HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff

After an emotional flag raising ceremony, School District No. 57 (SD57) is now displaying the new Lheidli T’enneh memorial flag in its boardroom offices.

In early June 2021, Lheidli T’enneh chief and council asked all of its partners who fly the flag to lower them to half-mast for a period of 215 days in memory of the unmarked graves confirmed at Kamloops Indian Residential School.

Lheidli T’enneh has now raised a new flag that features an orange ribbon in the lower right corner which serves to honour the kids found in Kamloops and all who died at residential schools.

SD57 raised the new flag during a ceremony that began with drumming from Nusdeh Yoh elementary students who performed the Grandmother Song and the Water song, followed by an opening prayer by Lheidli T’enneh Elder Darlene McIntosh.

“When the 215 unmarked graves were found it shocked the world. It really truly shocked the world and our Elders have always been telling that things like this happened but nobody would believe them and so when this came to the fore

and we found that it was now the truth has been told,” said McIntosh.

“Today we come together to remember the dark history of the residential schools and the repressive laws generations of Indigenous people have endured. Today is about truth. It is about the truth about the dark and tragic past we must remind ourselves before we can begin the path of reconciliation we must acknowledge and understand that truth,” said board chair Sharel Warrington.

SD57 acting superintendent Cindy Heitman echoed Warrington’s comments.

“We service almost 4,000 Indigenous students in this community and we have an opportunity to make the lives of those 4,000 students very different than historical. I am honoured and moved to be in this position and to be able to do this work alongside our Nation’s community.”

Lheidli T’enneh Indigenous Education Officer Mel Aksidan called the memorial flag raising a great start.

“It is very hard for Indigenous people to speak about Indigenous issues within the school district because we have had a horrendous history with the education system. Moving forward though we look forward to the partnership that we are going to have with SD57.”

“My wife told me someone won in Prince George,” he recalled.

“I went to a gas station to check it, scanned it a few times, and then took it to the clerk. He said, ‘Congratulations!’”

Gartner first shared the news with his sister.

“She gave me a big congrats and then said, ‘By the way, I need a swimming pool.’”

Gartner plans to use some of his prize to purchase his brother’s car that has been in the family for 57 years and may also purchase a new home.

For related stories, go to pgcitizen.ca

NOTICE

THE 2022 PARCEL TAXROLL REVIEW COMMITTEE will meet on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., for the purpose of considering written complaints with respect to the inclusion or exclusion of properties affected by the following parcel tax rolls:

Adams Road Community Sewer Service, Azu Water System, Bear Lake Water System, Bendixon Road Community Sewer Service, BuckhornCommunity Sewer Service, Shell-Glen FireProtection, Shelley Riverbank Erosion Protection, Syms Road Street Lighting, Tabor Lake Community Sewer Service, Tallus Road Community Sewer Service, and West Lake Community Sewer Service

For complaints to be considered by the Parcel TaxRoll Review Committee a complaint must be submitted in writing and be received not later than 2:00 p.m. on Friday,February 18, 2022. Complaints received by fax at 250-563-7520 will be accepted.

The parcel tax rolls will be available for viewing by appointment only,atthe Regional District office, 155 George Street, Prince George, B.C. V2L 1P8, from January 28, 2022 to February 17, 2022, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. To make an appointment to view the roll or for further information please contact Cindy Paton, Community Services Leader,at250-960-4400 or email communityservices@rdffg.bc.ca

ANTHONY GARTNER

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Ferguson Lake project takes step forward

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George board of directors has given preliminary approval to a proposed 13-lot subdivision west of Ferguson Lake Nature Reserve.

The proposed development on the 32.4 hectare (80 acre) lot drew opposition from the Prince George Naturalists Club, Nature Trust of British Columbia and area residents, who wrote letters and spoke out at a pair of public hearings held last year.

Following public opposition at the first public hearing in April 2021, the developer, B.C.based Global Union Investment Group, revised the proposed design to include a 251-metre wide, undeveloped buffer zone between the development and the nature reserve.

In addition to advancing the rezoning to change the property from Rural 1 to Rural Residential 2, the board accepted the proponent’s offer for a voluntary no-build covenant on the 10.12 ha. (25 acre) buffer zone on Thursday.

Once the covenant has been registered, the matter will come back to the board for final approval.

Kenna Jonkman, district general manager of development services, said the proposed layout of the subdivision could still change and won’t be solidified until the proposal goes through the subdivision process.

This is going to provide an opportunity for more families and new people to enjoy the neighbourhood.”

Instead of 13 individual lots 1.62 to 2.96 ha. (four to 7.3 acres) in size, the developer is now proposing a 13-lot bare land strata development with lots roughly two to 2.5 acres in size.

“When this was first presented, way back in April, there was a fair bit of opposition,” director Warren Wilson said. “I think they’ve gone a long way to make this more acceptable. I’m supportive of this going ahead at this time.”

Wilson represents Electoral Area A, where the proposed development is located – roughly 400 metres from Pilot Mountain Road, just outside of Prince George city limits.

Third reading of the rezoning bylaw is only “a very first step” in the process, Wilson said, and “there is a lot of stuff we don’t know yet.”

“The only thing confirmed through this process is the no-build covenant,” Jonkman said. The revised proposal calls for a community sewage system, rather than individual sewage lagoons, which would fall under the jurisdiction of Northern Health, she said. Any proposed sewage system would have to be professionally designed and approved by Northern Health, and be in place before residents move into the area.

Director Terri McConnachie said she was satisfied the proponent had heard and responded to the concerns raised by area residents, with the revised design. The proposed development would create some more-affordable rural housing in the district, she added.

“This is going to provide an opportunity for more families and new people to enjoy the neighbourhood, as the people there already do,” McConnachie said.

Director Lara Beckett was the only member of the board to vote against the rezoning.

“This isn’t done yet, but I’ll be supporting it now,” director Murry Krause said.

Special needs school first in B.C., student finds

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

The first school for special needs children in B.C. was likely established in Prince George in 1958 and one UNBC history student wants to talk about it.

According to Rachael Holmes, the Aurora School, built in Prince George during the Sun Rise to Sun Set event (a one-day build) on June 21, 1958, was the first of its kind in the province.

She conducted extensive research on the subject, inviting former teachers, staff and students to talk to her about their experience at the unique school.

“I thought I would share this beautiful story about our town being one of the most progressive communities in the province to help potentially raise more awareness on how important it is for the town to become more involved in these matters,” Holmes said.

Holmes, who also works as a behaviourial interventionist with a group of children on the autism spectrum, said the discovery of how the Aurora School was developed in Prince George is a source of pride and a subject close to her heart.

Holmes started out thinking she’d be a teacher but as fate would have it her life’s journey led her elsewhere, working with special needs children one-on-one

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early on in her work life, while getting her history degree at UNBC.

“I thought I should learn more about that community of people because I was still thinking I was going into education so I could be a better teacher and resource when I got there,” Holmes explained. “The more I worked with autistic kiddoes the more I was curious and the more I was like ‘OK, maybe this is the way I should go completely instead of going into

education’.”

The Aurora school, where Harwin Elementary is currently located, was created as a response to the polio epidemic when the disease was affecting children who were born healthy and then left with many permanent physical and mental challenges.

The $15,000 fundraising effort for the Aurora school was done in a two-month span and there was a shortfall of $2,000

on the day of the build, Holmes said.

The concrete foundation had already been laid and then from 3 a.m. to 8 p.m. they built the entire school.

Holmes found the information mainly through researching The Citizen’s digital archives and UNBC archives.

During the first year, there were 13 students and two teachers and it grew from there.

“The Aurora school was a beautiful place to send children at a time where most children with special needs were sent to asylums,” Holmes said. “I wrote the paper and want to make it available for people to read because I think special education for children is really important.”

For a potential masters thesis, Holmes is looking for more first-hand accounts of experiences at the school from teachers, staff and students who were at the Aurora School.

“I think it would be amazing to give people an opportunity to speak about it,” Holmes said. “I think it was a beautiful project where the Prince George community came together - one resource quoted someone as saying ‘the reason Prince George could do this is because Prince George has a heart’ and that pretty much says it all.”

To contact Holmes email her at racholmes@outlook.com

B.C.’s economic recovery hinges upon massive, sustained infrastructure investment:IUOE 115

BrianCochrane, business manager of theInternational Union of OperatingEngineers Local115, shares hisviews on rebuilding B.C.’s economy

Thedevastating floodsinsouthernB.C.thatsevered vital roadand rail linkshighlighted thecrucial yetfragile nature of theprovince’stransportationnetworks. They also served as along-overduewake-up call on the province’surgent need for massive, sustainedpublic infrastructure investment

As British Columbians emerge from the second straight year of COVID-19 restrictions, the provincewill require extensive construction activity to get B.C.’sbattered economy back on track. In its upcoming provincial budget, the B.C. governmentshouldmake ameaningful commitment to aggressive, long-term infrastructure investment

MuchofB.C.’s physicalinfrastructurehas notkept pace with public needs. The provincial governmenthas made significant progressin upgrading and refurbishing many existing public assets, but we’re still playing catch up on decades worth of underinvestment. The Highway 1 expansion from Kamloops to the Albertaborder and the Mills Memorial Hospital replacement in Terrace are just two examples of essential projects finally receiving appropriate attention.

Dikes, dams, schools, and hospitals all need seismic upgrades or replacing throughout the province. B.C.’s public buildings also need to be built to higherenergy standards to meet our greenhousegas emission targets and reduce costs.

Sustained investment in transportation and transit is vital to our economic prosperity,helpingease gridlock, improve accessibilityand boost productivity. Primary examples are the much-needed upgradesofHighways 16 and 97 alongwith the Taylor Bridge replacement.

These projects can be efficiently built underaworkforce delivery model that ensures localjob opportunities for Indigenous people, people with disabilities, andwomen in trades, includingapprenticeship and skills training that will last alifetime.

Preference for local hires meansworkers will spend their wagesin thecommunity,supporting small businesses devastated by COVID-19and contributing to the tax base.

Construction unionsand the industryare generally well-positioned to provide essential training for new and incumbentworkers. Comprehensive training ensures workers have the necessary skills to meetthe technological challenges of tomorrow, helpingbuild aresilientand dynamic workforce connected to highquality jobs.

Thepandemic hasinflicted acatastrophic human andeconomictoll. Massive, long-terminfrastructure investmentprovidesaunique opportunity to revitalize oureconomy. Nowisthe timetoput politicalvision into action, getBritish Columbians back to work, andcreate the prosperity neededtoput the lasttwo years behind us

Brian Cochraneisbusiness manager of theInternational UnionofOperating Engineers Local115,representing over12,500skilledworkers in theconstruction, transportation,mining, aviation, andother industrial sectorsthroughout B.C. andthe Yukon.

NumerousB.C. dikes, dams, schools, and hospitals require seismic upgrades.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Aurora School is in progress on June 21, 1958, where the Prince George community came together to build in one day what is believed to be the first school for special needs children in B.C.

COMMUNITY POLLS

Should hospitals charge for

parking? Will you be watching the Winter Olympics?

Vote by scanning the QR code to the right.

RESULTS from last week’s polls:

Should city council give final approval to a proposed Hart seniors housing project?

● Yes, the city needs more seniors housing - 324 votes, 54%

● Yes, residential neighbourhoods should be diverse - 106 votes, 18%

● No, many of the neighbours are opposed - 20 votes, 4%

● No, it should be closer to retail and health services - 146 votes, 24%

Should the government fine adults who refused to be vaccinated against COVID-19?

● Yes, they need to be accountable for health costs - 285 votes, 28%

● Yes, their views are putting others in danger - 195 votes, 19%

● No, that’s a violation of universal healthcare - 129 votes, 13%

● No, that violates government authority - 402 votes, 40 per cent

LETTERS WELCOME at letters@pgcitizen.ca. No handwritten letters, please. We will edit letters to ensure clarity, good taste, for legal reasons, and occasionally for length. Anonymous letters will not be published.

My siblings, a professor of medical sciences and a veterinarian, often get a chuckle from my lack of scientific knowledge. I always found the social sciences much more interesting, and I have thus chosen to focus on understanding human behaviour with the goal of building a kinder, more cooperative and functional world community.

One obvious truth is that we share a common humanity Period.

Because of our common humanity, the most poignant threat to the world community is an “us vs them” mentality Fear is a powerful emotion, and manipulators are aware of this. If we fear “the other,” we become very easy to control.

COVID-19 has proven to be another major threat to our humanity, both from a medical and social perspective. As one who has studied human conflict throughout history, I am very concerned about the division which currently exists.

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

No one is always right and even a broken clock is right twice a day

Information may be contradictory, but universal truths are constant. People are free to remain unvaccinated, but with that freedom comes the responsibility to follow other health advisories because the consequence of being wrong could be the death of other human beings. No one wants to carry that responsibility

Some of my unvaccinated friends have shared information that, to them, proves that we should not get vaccinated I cannot comment on the validity of the medical arguments made in these documents, but I am very suspicious of the anger and sarcasm that is generated in texts on all sides of this issue.

As far as civil liberties are

concerned, we are free to refuse to follow laws we consider unjust. In doing so, we choose to accept the legal consequences, thus making an impactful political statement. Unwillingness to do so demonstrates a lack of moral credibility.

As much as they are demonized in the mainstream media, many of the unvaccinated are educated people who comprehend the importance of critical thinking

What is most important to remember is that we are all neighbours who walk this world together and are responsible for one another. We cannot allow anyone to manipulate us into doubting this essential truth.

Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George teacher.

Editor’s Note: Gerry’s Jan. 13 column, “Bishop Tutu’s legacy of peace,” contained an inaccurate number of Jews who support boycotts and sanctions against the state of Israel in support of the rights of Palestinians

Potskin’s fastball dreams stuck in pause

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Nick Potskin thought he and his ball glove were heading to Florida sometime this month.

The chance to play a tournament under the palm trees and warm ocean breezes of the Sunshine State was going to be one of the perks of his selection as part of the 40-player roster for the senior men’s national team.

So much for that plan.

The pandemic had other ideas and decided to flare up just before Christmas, scuttling the tournament and putting other plans for the national program on hold. Instead of swinging for the alligator swamp on the other side of the fence in Florida, the 25-year-old Potskin is doing what he can to sweeten his swing teeing off on practice pitching in the indoor cage of a converted billiards hall in Prince George.

COVID has been a killer in more ways than one and it’s been an absolute kryptonite for sports event organizers. Potskin has had to accept that, two years into his tenure as a part of the senior national squad, he has yet to set foot on the same field as the rest of his national teammates.

He found out two weeks ago the icebreaker tournament in Fort Myers they had lined up against American opponents was cancelled.

“Since I joined the team, COVID hit, so being able to get together and do practices with them is tough now,” said Potskin. “It’s just keeping up with our workout routine and staying healthy and then if we do go to tournament they obviously want to know what team we’re on so they can come and watch. It’s mostly them scouting us individually on our teams since we can’t really do anything co-ordinated, with the COVID.

”Getting us all together and practicing

together is nightmares because we’re all over Canada.”

Potskin’s speed, athleticism and ability to field the ball suit him well at shortstop and with his power at the plate means he’s considered the top all-around player in Prince George.

Last summer, he played for the Big Guy Lake Kings in the Grand Slam tournament in Saskatoon. In 2019, after he was picked as an all-star at the ISC national championship playing for the Grande Prairie Pirates, Potskin went to New Zealand and played five months for a club team there based in Wellington.

Potskin comes by his talent for fastball honestly. His family has a multi-generational legacy of playing the game at

its highest levels - locally, provincially, nationally and on the international stage. His uncle Evan played on the senior national team from 2000-09. Another Potskin uncle, Joey, a former Atlanta Braves prospect, was on Team Canada’s list, along with lifelong family friend, Chad Ghostkeeper, but neither played for the team.

Nick’s dad Randy was a fixture on traveling fastball teams from Prince George that competed annually in senior national and native national tournaments.

“Getting picked for Team Canada was a huge break, that’s what I’ve been trying to do this whole time, as soon as I started playing,” said Nick. “I played baseball up until I was 17 or 18 and then I switched at

the end of midget.”

Wherever Nick plays, people know the Potskin name, and it’s helped open doors for him in his fastball career. The name is synonymous with the sport.

“It’s awesome, I think, because when you go somewhere they may not know you but they hear your name and want to know you, and that’s how you meet so many people,” he said.

Potskin is an alternate on the 16-player national team picked to play in the 2022 Pan-Am championship, to be re-scheduled sometime this spring, in Parana, Venezuela. The top four teams qualify for the WBSC Men’s World Cup in Auckland, N.Z., Nov. 26-Dec. 4.

Potskin, a UNBC graduate, is an aspiring chartered public accountant working for the Tsay Keh Dene First Nation and he just finished writing his final exams, which should allow him more time to put into indoor workouts at Northern Baseball Academy and at the AP Athletics gym on Nicholson Street his brother Jared co-owns and operates as a personal trainer.

“The toughest thing is keeping up with hitting because our seasons have been quite short, with COVID,” he said. “Having indoor cages here is a huge help.”

The Northern Baseball indoor hitting facility utilizes the HitTrax software program in its batting cage, which provides instant feedback to the batter to track exit velocity, launch angle distance and point of impact on the bat. It makes batting practice a little more fun and Potskin plans to use the technology to track his progress as he gets closer to taking his game outdoors once the spring thaw arrives.

“Hitting has definitely gotten me out there,” he said. “I’ve always been a good infielder, making the odd error, here and there, but I think I’ve been getting better at hitting lately.”

Young ramping up for minor league baseball

While Major League Baseball owners and players continue to be at odds, with no contract in place, a work stoppage is a real possibility to start the season.

Baseball’s minor leagues, however, are not part of that deal and that’s good news for Jared Young. The 26-year-old Chicago Cubs prospect from Prince George is making plans to return to the Cubs’ triple-A affiliate in Iowa for the start of the 2022 season in April.

Training camp usually starts in mid-February, although the MLB situation has clouded that start date somewhat and Young is unsure when the players will be told to report to the Cubs’ spring training facility in Mesa, Arizona, where he makes his off-season home.

“Minor leagues are separate from the big leagues, so if they don’t have a season, we’re still going to have a season, we just don’t know what time it’s going to start,” said Young. “I’m assuming it will be sometime in mid-February but we don’t have any details yet.”

After not playing at all in 2020, when the minor leagues were shut down by the pandemic, Young started the 2021 season with the double-A Tennessee Smokies, the team he played for in 2019, and was hitting .326 when he got called up to Iowa on Aug. 10. He played 37 games in triple-A and hit .254 with 32 hits, including one triple and five home runs.

Then in December, after considering one other option in Venezuela, Young’s agent arranged a tryout with the Tigres des Licey of the Dominican Winter League. For Young, it was a chance he

could not refuse.

“It’s winter ball and a chance to be seen, but it’s not my primary job,” said Young. “I was down there as an off-season thing just to play and get a life experience and I did. I didn’t play as much as I wanted to and I didn’t play as much as I expected to. It was kind of miscommunication or something there but I only played a couple of games and was really looking to play and make a difference, but that’s not how it went down.”

Baseball is a religion in the Caribbean and the fans there are extremely passionate about the game, packing the stadiums with crowds of 15,000 or more. For Young, it was a cultural experience he’ll never forget.

He arrived just before the playoffs and was limited to just five games and 16 plate appearances, going without a hit with

two walks before he was released from the roster. Based in the capital, Santo Domingo, the Tigres were well-stocked with major league talent, including 15-year MLB veteran Hanley Ramirez, who was drawing regular duty at first base, Young’s usual position.

“I didn’t know, going down there, that Hanley Ramirez was the first baseman, that would have been something good to know before I went because that definitely affected how much I played,” said Young. “But he’s a good guy to learn from. He’s made $160 million in the big leagues and he’s played for a long time and had insane success. Any time you play with a guy like that and pick his brain a little bit, you’d be stupid not to. I definitely spent time around him and hit with him, and hopefully some of the stuff I saw and talked to him about pays off for me.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Nick Potskin cranks the ball during indoor batting at Northern Baseball Academy’s Nicholson Street facility.

Gairns on standby for Winter Olympics

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

As the first alternate for the Canadian women’s Olympic ski cross team, Tiana Gairns of Prince George knows she won’t be going to Beijing unless something happens to one of her teammates.

She doesn’t want to think about it, but considering the dicey nature of her sport, especially during COVID times, that’s always a possibility.

The 23-year-old Gairns is fifth on the depth chart of a stacked Canadian ski cross team that includes four women and four men and she’s OK with instead of going to China, she will be in Europe competing on the Europa Cup circuit.

“If something happens before the races have started, then I’ll be able to go,” said Gairns “If something happens while training and qualifications have already happened, then it’s too late.”

Gairns was also an alternate for the 2018 Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea but was in a much different position back then as a relative newcomer to the World Cup scene. This year is different. When the team was named on Friday, Gairns ranked seventh in the World Cup standings, among five Canadian women in the top 10.

“In 2018, I wasn’t expecting to be an alternate and I wasn’t vying for an Olympic position, it wasn’t even on my mind, but it just happened to be that someone got hurt and someone that would have been the alternate,” said Gairns. “I almost didn’t want to go to the Games because I didn’t think I was a competitive threat, versus this time around. I was vying for that spot and I was a few points out on the criteria.”

The women’s team includes Marielle Thompson of Whistler, the 2014 Olympic champion; 2018 silver medalist Brittany Phelan of Mont Tremblant, Que.; Hannah Schmidt of Ottawa and Courtney Hoffos of Invermere.

“Every single girl that’s going could get a medal and I can’t be disappointed about not going to the Games,” said Gairns, who spent her Sunday free skiing at Revelsoke.

“They all deserve to go. It’s a little bittersweet knowing our team is so strong. No other nation in ski cross is having that problem, where they can’t send every person they think is competitive. Canada is the only one with that problem on the girls’ side.”

Ski cross made its Olympic debut in 2010 in Vancouver-Whistler and Canadian women have won gold in each of the Olympic competitions, starting with Ashleigh McIvor in 2010. Kelsey Serwa, the silver medalist in 2014, won gold in 2018.

The Canadian men haven’t been frequent fliers to the Olympic podium - Brady Leman’s gold medal in 2018 was their first at the Olympic level. But Reece Howden of Cultus Lake captured the Crystal Globe last season as the World Cup points champion and Kevin Drury of

Toronto and Jared Schmidt of Ottawa, the other two men on the Olympic team, both have made the World Cup podium.

Gairns will be based at Nakiska before she heads to Reiteralm, Austria for her first Europa Cup races, Feb. 13-14. Gavin Rowell of Prince George, 22, will also be racing there.

Reiteralm is a home away from home for Gairns. It’s where her grandparents live and it’s the resort where she first started skiing when she was 2 ½. She lived there until she was seven, when she moved back to Prince George with her parents, Stuart and Sandra.

Due to the threat of COVID, Gairns won’t be allowed to interact with her grandparents and she will have to keep her distance from them, but she’s still hoping to see them face-to-face. This

season, no Canadians have missed competitions due to COVID, although one of the athletes did get the virus over the Christmas break.

“I’m really happy with the season I’ve had so far, and it’s not over yet, so I’m happy to continue racing and I’m really looking forward to this training block we have here,” she said. “The racing mindset can be pretty draining. It’s really difficult to focus on your own skiing when you have the other people around you. So I just want the ability to really focus on executing what I want my skiing to look like.”

Gairns and Rowell will resume racing on the World Cup tour Feb. 25-27 in Sunny Valley, Russia, and will return to Reiteralm (March 11-13) before the season-ending race in Veysonnez, Switzerland (March 19).

Tiana Gairns of Prince George, right, gets some airtime as she competes in a World Cup race Jan. 15 at Nakiska, Alta.

LEANING IN Cariboo Cougars forward Decker Mujcin attempts to knock Fraser Valley Thunderbirds forward Ashton Boschmann off the puck on Sunday afternoon at Fort Forum in Fort St. James as part of the Third Annual Northern Winter Classic. The Thunderbirds won both weekend games – 3-2 in overtime on Saturday and 10-6 on Sunday.

Special O bid in works

The City of Prince George will be submitting a bid to host the 2025 Special Olympics B.C. Summer Games. If successful, the eight-sport event is expected to draw roughly 1,400 athletes and coaches from British Columbia and the Yukon to compete, according to a report that went before city council on Monday night. The Special Olympics summer games offers athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete in basketball, bocce, golf, rhythmic gymnastics, powerlifting, soccer, softball, swimming and track and field.

The games are expected to have a $375,000 budget, of which the city would be expected to provide $35,000 in cash and $60,000 in in-kind costs, such as facility usage, city director of public safety Adam Davey wrote in his report. However, the event is anticipated to have a roughly $1.3 million economic impact for the city. Hosting the games will be done in partnership with School District 57, Davey wrote in his report. If the games are a success, it could open the opportunity for the city to host the 2028 national winter Special Olympics, Davey added.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Lodge residents denied easy access to park

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

For months now, one Gateway Lodge resident’s daughter has been trying to get a gate installed to access the newly transformed Ron Brent Park that is adjacent to the seniors’ complex.

“We’ve been watching the development for two years and now that it’s ready for use we can look at it but we can’t get to it,” Reta Herrick said.

The newly refurbished Ron Brent Park is flanked by Riverbend Manor, Gateway Lodge, the Connaught Youth Centre and Ron Brent Elementary.

The budget set for the senior-friendly park was $1.675 million with no easy access from Gateway to the paved pathways, exercise equipment, horseshoe pits, trails, benches, picnic tables and gardens.

Riverbend Manor has access to the park but it’s a card-locked gate only for residents of the manor. There’s a public walkway at the Gateway Lodge that follows the perimeter of the park but no gate for residents to get to it.

During the pandemic, Herrick said it would be nice for residents to be able to enjoy the beautiful park.

Herrick reached out to the city with her concerns and was told it was Gateway’s decision to not install the gate.

When Herrick found a manager at Gateway to speak with, she was told they didn’t install a gate because of security issues.

Visitors to Gateway get a key card to access the locks throughout the complex. Putting in a card-locked gate like they have to access the community garden set

aside for those in complex care wouldn’t be such a hardship, Herrick said.

“My sister is in her mid-40s and is quite able and she took my mother out in the wheelchair,” Herrick said. “To get to the park you have to go down 20th Avenue to the lights by McDonald’s and then up Victoria Street and up quite a steep incline that’s just ridiculous. My sister said it was all she could do to get her up the hill and quite a nightmare on the way back because she had to get her safely down the steep hill and not lose her in traffic on Victoria Street.”

Herrick is hoping that making this concern public now might generate some change in time for springtime access to the park.

Herrick has walked the perimeter of the metal fence that is between Gateway Lodge and Ron Brent Park. From that pathway there is a card lock gate to access the complex care garden that has restricted access to keep everyone safe during the pandemic. It’s not three feet away from the fence that barricades residents from Ron Brent Park.

“When you’ve already got a gate with a key card to a garden at the facility, what harm’s another going to do?” Herrick questioned.

When The Citizen reached out to Northern Health for comment, as Gateway Lodge is one of its many facilities, this is the statement that came back.

“For the safety of our complex care residents and staff, access between the Gateway property and public spaces such as Ron Brent Park is closely controlled and monitored. At this time, we are not considering adding access between the facility and the public park.”

Housing plan pondered

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

City council is considering approving up to 82 units of duplex, triplex and fourplex-style rental housing for seniors at 7215 and 7163 Kelly Road.

A vote on the final reading of the rezoning bylaw will be withheld until the city receives a servicing brief from the developer showing that the water, sewer and other utility services can support the increased demand. In addition, the developer will be required to register a restrictive covenant on the property prohibiting apartment development on the site before final approval is considered.

Currently, the lots are primarily a strip of undeveloped, treed greenspace between Gray Drive and Handlen Road, with access from Kelly Road South and Heather Park Road across from Ecole

Heather Park Elementary.

A consultation process conducted by the developer generated a petition in opposition with more than 50 names, as well as three letters, eight phone calls and 11 emails – the majority in opposition.

An increase in traffic onto Heather Park Road near the elementary school was one of the concerns identified. However, a traffic analysis conducted by consultants L&M Engineering estimated the seniors housing would only increase traffic by an average of 16 vehicles per hour during the morning rush, and by 19 vehicles per hour during the evening rush.

“I think this is another important development for the Hart Highway,” Coun. Brian Skakun said. “The more people who move out there, the more investment, the more critical services that are going to be there. Businesses are going to follow the people who are going to move out there.”

High-tech helping seniors stay independent

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Technology isn’t just for young people. It’s being applied in new and creative ways to help area seniors continue to live safely and independently, in part thanks to work at the Centre for Technology Adoption for Aging in the North (CTAAN) at UNBC.

CTAAN was founded in 2020 in partnership with Northern Health and funded by AGEWELL, Canada’s network of aging and technology.

“The inspiration behind CTAAN is to be that bridge to all these amazing technologies that are being created and connect them to our region to persons who are aging in the community and their care partners. It’s important people are supported as they age well in the north,” Dr. Shannon Freeman, CTAAN’s academic director, said.

Right now, CTAAN is collaborating with Northern Health to provide specialized technology for the BC Housing project in Vanderhoof that features three floors of rental apartments including eight supported units for those who have dementia.

The first-of-its-kind project is a partnership between BC Housing, Northern Health, the District of Vanderhoof, Connexus Community Resources and the Centre for Technology Adoption for Aging in the North.

Some of the items available are an indoor hydroponic tower, smart home technologies including sensor pads for in bed and out of bed, in chair and out of chair, open door sensors, including those for the front door and medicine cabinets, virtual exercise equipment and lighting that imitates gradual sun up, bright daylight, and sun down options to ease people into and out of their daytime routine.

“We’re looking at technology that can support older adults where they’re at, supporting them to live the best they can,” Freeman said. “Those include very healthy adults living independently in the community in their own homes all the way across the spectrum to persons who are receiving supports in a long-term healthcare settings and all the way to end of life.”

“The question was how can we use technology to help engage in activities that you find meaningful?” Freeman said. “So gardening was important for them so we looked at what’s available and we codesigned a whole project geared around that.”

There were raised bed gardens created for summer gardening and an indoor tower garden for the winter. The project was a success.

An indoor tower garden is currently in a facility in Vanderhoof.

We’re looking at technology that can support older adults where they’re at, supporting them to live the best they can”

CTAAN is working with people who are aging and those who are supporting those who are aging, Freeman added.

The hydroponic tower, for example, was inspired by an older adult in care who was tired of the long winter months without being able to garden.

“Working with all the stakeholders and understanding what challenges and needs are out there and what tech is out there we can work with those companies and codevelop projects to try to ensure the technologies can get to where they are needed,”

Richard McAloney, director at CTAAN, said. “There’s a lot on the research side of it looking at how to best implement that and make people aware of and educate people on these amazing technologies.”

McAloney said the technology has to be sent to a place where it will be utilized so as to not add to the burden of work for the staff of a facility. It has to be userfriendly for the resident and the hydroponic tower is one example of that.

“There are a variety of options to choose from to best suit the caregiver and the older adult,” Freeman said.

CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO

Richard McAloney, director of the Centre for Technology Adoption for Aging in the North at UNBC, shows a free-standing hydroponic garden, one of many examples of using technology and design to make everyday life easier for seniors.

HORO SC OPES &P UZ ZLES

ACROSS 1. President’s Office 5. Hunger 9. Felon’s flight

Italian money, once 13. Drive away

Hatchet 15. River barriers 16. Period preceding Easter 17. Scramble (for) 18. Haste 20. Final 21. Jacket features 24. Certain poem 26. In flames

27. Former: hyph. 31. Kind of music 32. South American range

Uncooked

Clad

Cream of the crop

Pod dweller

Springs up

Flat bread

Goes on and on

Grape or orange drink

Employer

30. Female sheep 33. Least distant

Center of rotation 11. Tournament

Satisfy 20. Gave permission to 21. Fat 22. Long way off 23. Duct 25. Dry wilderness 27. Peculiar 28. Pupil site

29. Ship’s officer

Health haven 38. Pay attention 40. Mad 41. Window glass 42. Worshiped object 43. School session 45. Section 47. Public vehicle 49. Ripen, as cheese 50. Pull or haul 51. Wild donkey

PUZZLE NO. 855

Self-images

Shady tree

Hang around

“Broadcast

DOWN 1. Out-of-date

Passing through

Limb

Ice mass, for short 48. So long, in London: 2 wds. 52. Negative linking word

Lower 5. The British 6. Biblical pronoun 7. Pardon 8. Spicy 9. Molten flow

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1through 9only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with adarkerline. You alreadyhave afew numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through 9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box

DEADLINES: AD DEADLINE:FridayatNoon forthe followingThursday

GwendalynePenner

Oct.14,1942-Jan.12,2022

It is with great sadness and sorrow, that the family of Gwen Penner announce her passing at the Prince George Hospice House Facility with family present. Gwen had previously suffered a stroke after the death of the love of her life; Doug Jacobson and was recovering at home and getting stronger each day with the goal, (set by herself), of returning to the links at theAspenGroveGolfCourse.

She is survived by her sons; Doug, Mike (Karen). Daughters; Tannis and Michelle (Neil}, Grand-children; Randy (Jessica), Ryan, Andrew, Shayleen, and Michael, Great Grandchildren;AveryandKinsley

1931-2022

David passed away at the University Hospital of Northern BC on January 10,2022;hewas90yearsofage.

His passions in his life were his family,friends,golfandfishing.

David will be deeply missed by all whoknewhim.

Condolencesmaybeofferedat www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com

As a long time resident of Prince George, Gwen was a Nurse and Paramedic, worked Security and Industrial First Aid at a local pulp mill and retired after many years of dedication and service. She enjoyed camping and fishing trips, far and wide (her words). She loved Baseball and played in local tournaments, discovered her joy for Golf (with Dad) and made many close friends. She spent her winters with Dad playing golf and going for long walks and biking tripsatandnearbytheWestwindGolfResortinYuma,Arizona.

The family would like to thank the people of the local health authority for her at-home care as she worked hard in her recovery and the loving and compassionate care Gwen received at the Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society Special thanks to her neighbors who would check in on her and look after her yard-work. Extra-special thanks and the family’s gratitude to Carol Mclean, for being Gwen’s ‘rock’ with her assistance and support for Gwenoverthelastyear

REMEMBRANCES

loving life. He had an unquenchable thirst for learning and knowledge. He loved a cold Bud, a blazing fire, loud music and laughing with family and friends. He worked at Northern Steel for over 15 years and he obtained Red Seal Accreditation as a Machinist and Steel Fabricator

Predeceasedbyfather-in-lawGregCouston. I’msuretheyarefishingrightnow.

Survived by his loving wife Heather, son C.J.(Kayla), mother Kitty, father Ernie, sister Danielle (Mike), brother David, mother-in-law Christine, brother-in-law Robert and many family and friends too numerous tolist.

Thank you to his doctors, Cancer Clinic and the nurses for the excellent care and who made his last wishes possible.

ACelebrationofLifeisplannedforthissummer

My soulmate, best friend and love of my life. He will live forever in our memories and hearts. InlieuofflowersdonationscanbemadetoBrainCancerResearch.

Obituaries

Obituaries

DavidBird

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PGC002403

RUSSELL, Sandra L.

January 19, 1947 -January 13, 2022

Sandy was an amazing woman, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend. She passed away peacefully on Jan 13th. She will be forever missed and cherished by many.

ChadWilliamJohnson

September15,1947-Jan15,2022

It is with great sadness to announce that Chad William Johnson passed away at 11:30 pm on January 15th, 2022 at the age of 74 years after a longstrugglewithillness.

Chad is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Erika Johnson, and his 3 children Tige, Brandt and Andrea. Chad will also be remembered by his 5 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren, who heloveddearly

Chad was a dedicated family man: a loving husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather (they called him ‘Papa’), and a friend to many, many people in the community He will be missed by everyone in the family, his niece, nephew, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, and his many,manyfriends.Thankyouforyoursupport.

Chad was a master journeyman heavy duty mechanic. He began his career in 1968, one of the final graduates of the Finning program. He worked for Finning in the central interior until 1975, and then settled in Prince George. He worked for Carrier Lumber from 1989 until his retirementin2011.

Chad was also an avid golfer, and a common, friendly face at the Aspen golf course where he both played and volunteered. He also loved breakfast or lunch with one of his many friends. He always kept a bag of treats in his pocket for the neighbourhood dogs he loved. In his younger years, he volunteered many years to PG minor football. And he loved his work. His idea of a perfect morning was rebuilding an engine while listeningtotheradio.

The family would like to thank the Hospice House for their compassionate treatment of Chad during hisfinaldays.

The family would be honored to have all who knew him to be part of a Celebration of Life on May 15, 2022. Please come and celebrate his life and share your stories. The place and time will be postedinthepaper,oryoucancalltoconfirm.

YvonHermanBachand

July15,1932-January18,2022

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Yvon(Moe)Bachand.

He is survived by his loving wife Germaine, his children; Marcel (Twyla), Paulette (Gary), Denie (Judy), Leo (JoAnn), Roland (Maria), and Grandchildren; Marcel Jr (Kristy), Ryan (Kira), Christine (Andrew), Giselle (Randy), Levi (Emily), Amber (Dave), Kaylee (Scott), Lauren (Ryan), Logan, Rupert (Kristy), Gabriella, Yvonne,andnumerousgreatgrandchildren.

Yvon was predeceased by son Emil (Brenda Brophy)andgrand-daughterAmanda.

Born in Zenon Park, Saskatchewan and moved to Prince George, BC in 1949. He met Germaine, at a lumber camp in Fife Lake in 1951, married in 1953,andwasadevotedhusbandfor68years.

Yvon is remembered as a dedicated family man whose integrity and values were driven by his deepfaith.

Funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at 1:30 pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charityofyourchoice.

Aganetha McFarlin

1947-2022

Aganetha McFarlin, age 74, known to everyone as Nita, passed away on January 9, 2022, at hospice in Prince George,BC.

She was born to Abe and Helen Wiebe on June 10,1947inHague,Saskatchewan.

Nita lived in Prince George for 50 years. She is survived by her daughters Deana (Kim) and Michele; brothers John (Twila), Robert and Wesley; sisters Kit (Paul), Martha (Graham), Marilyn (Sylvio) and Judith (Ken), many nieces andnephewsandmanyotherextendedfamily

Nita was predeceased by her parents Abe and Helen, brothers Jacob and David, and sister Shirley

Nita spent her working years at the University Hospital of Northern BC. She underwent surgery to donate a kidney to her sister without hesitation in 1993. After retirement, she never looked back enjoying her time to herself. She loved travelling, curling regularly and spending time with her daughters and various cats and dogs over the years.

A private Service of Remembrance, by invitation only, will be held on January 28, 2022 at 1:00 pm. You may join the family in watching the Live Stream of Nita’s service using this link https://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/44764.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Canadian CancerSocietyorHospiceSocietyisappreciated.

Condolencesmaybeofferedat www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com

Inlovingmemoryof RaulinoAmaral

December5,1935January16,2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband and father Raulino Amaral on January 16, 2022, in Prince George, BC. Raulino was born December 5, 1935, in Rebeira Grande, Portugal. He passed away at the age of 86 years old. He will forever live on in the hearts and memories of his loved ones.

Raulino is survived by his wife, Maria Amaral, his children Lucia and Joe, and many extended familyandfriends.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr Schokking and all of the staff at the University Hospital of Northern BC and Jubilee Lodge for their compassionate care and support.

BENNETT,JESSELUKE

Oct.15,1981-Dec.26,2021

Life is not measured by length, rather by depth. Jesse Bennett, owner of Crimson Projects, yet lives a life of great depth. Welcomed into eternity on Boxing Day 2021 at the young age of 40, he is survived by his loving wife, Siyanna, three sons, Isaac 14, Jacob 11, Daniel 4, and a daughter Emilia 2. He leaves behind a brother Joshua, two sisters Rian and Elisha, his parents Ian and Glenda, and countless friends who were family and family who were friends. Jesse is a man of great loyalty and character, living life with passion and integrity Well known in the Prince George construction community, as well as serving as an active member of Timbers Community Church, Jesse loves sports and the outdoors, participating in baseball, hockey, mountaineering, hunting, and canoeing. But his greatest love and pride is his family. The single word that best describes Jesse Bennett is SOLID. It may seem strange to you that this obituary is not written in the past tense, but such sentiments are for those who live in this life only There is no past tense for those who live in eternity Nor is there such a thing as goodbye. You see, dear reader, where you go in death is determined by where you went in life. A celebration of Jesse’s life is planned for June 5 at Ness Lake Bible Camp.

TedSamuelHowe

October5,1975-December29,2021

It is with hearts full of love and sorrow that we announce the too soon passing of Sam. He fought hard but lost his battle with cancer at the young age of 46. He died peacefully at his home in PrinceGeorgeonDecember29,2021.

Sam leaves many behind to miss and mourn him: Wife - Heather (Couston), Son - C.J. (Kayla), Brother - David, Sister - Danielle (Mike) Cochrane, Mom - Kitty, Dad - Ernie, many friends and family too numerous to list here, and also his Northern Steel family with whom he proudlyheldthepositionofMachinist/Fabricator

Memories of Sam sitting by a campfire, “Bud” in one hand and a burger in the other; his boat tied up at the dock ready for morning fishing; his easy laughter and teasing brown eyes (he loved to tease!)willstaywithusandcomfortusforever

Per Sam’s request, there was no service, but a celebrationofhislifewillbeheldthissummer

There’s a star in the sky with your name on it SonCheck it out! Go with God dear.

Lovealways Mom

May1,1939-January12,2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passingofourfamilymatriarchMargNelson.

She will be sadly missed by all of her family and hermanydearfriendsandtheirfamilies.

Mom was an avid gardener and enjoyed all things outdoors. For many years she was a proud member of the Royal Purple where she held many titles. We imagine she is now hunting, fishing and camping with her one true love and partner Hermaninthegreatunknown.

Rest In Peace Mom, we love and miss you always and forever.

Condolencesmaybeofferedat www.AssmansFuneralChapel.com

Edward Loehndorf

December14,2021

It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of a loving husband, father and grandfather, on December 14, 2021. He is survived by his devoted wife Karen; children Richard and Darcy (Daren); grandchildren Sara, Matthew (Kyndra), Kyle (Justine), Tory (Sam) and Cyle (Vicky); best friends Brad and Nick; and extended family and friends.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the amazing staff at the Prince George Hospice, Dr Greyell, Woodridge, Olsen and Buchanan, for their exceptionalcareandcompassion.

Acelebrationoflifewillbeheldatafuturedate.

Because I Love You So

Firewood

Mills/Equipment

Sheds/Outbuildings

Dollar SaverLumber has openings forthe following positions:

•Labourers

•PLaNer FeeDer (FT)

•GraDers (FT or PT)

for1x4, 1x3 in 8’,7’6’& 5’lengths)

Will p yc mp titiv w g st dy W k

Please apply in person to: Dollar SaverLumber Attn: Ken 9359 NorthernCres PrinceGeorge, BC or email keyles@lumber.ca or gobbi1@telus.net Fax: 250.561.2111

Trucking & Transport

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Fort St.James Forest Products,adivision of Hampton LumberMills, hasachallenging opportunity for an innovativeand highly motivated individual as a

TEMPORARYSITE WATCHPERSON & LEVEL3 FIRSTAID ATTENDANT

As amember of the team, based out of Fort St. James, BC, you will be responsible for onsiteFirst Aidand Watchperson

Key responsibilities and duties will include:

•Level3 First Aid Attendant

•Watchperson duties

•Perform all dutiesina safe, courteous manner with attention to details.

Theideal candidate is ateamoriented individualwiththe following qualifications:

•Current Level 3FirstAid certificate

•Valid class 5driver’slicence

•Has attentiontodetail andknowledge of Microsoft Office suite

Hampton Lumber Millsprovidesa competitivesalary with fullbenefits.

Qualified applicants should Email their resumes to #HRCanada@Hamptonlumber. com prior to 4:00pm January 27th, 2022

We thank all candidates fortheir interest, however,only those selectedfor an interviewwill be contacted.

FullTimeTeller

PrinceGeorge Branch

At Interior Savings (formallySpruceCredit Union), it’s our job to be therewiththe right financialsupporttohelp our members succeed.That’s localmoneyfor localgood!

It’s alsoour job to give backinour communities.Asamember of the Interior Savings team, youhavethe opportunityto supportyourlocal economy, local causes, local events and initiatives,and to help create positivechange

If youwouldlike to be partofateamthat makes apositivedifferenceinpeople’s lives, check out this greatopportunity.

As aTeller youare akey contributor to our financial success.You actively fulfill the basic needs or our members and look foropportunities to referorcross sell additional products or services.

If youhaveexcellentcommunication and customer serviceskills, in addition to 1-3 years of job-relatedexperienceina serviceorientatedenvironment, including experienceasateller or cashier then we encourage youtocome join our team.

“For moreinformation or to apply please visit our website: www.interiorsavings.com”

We thank all applicants fortheir interest and will contactshort-listed candidates only.

Infant Development Consultant

Temporary parttime (28 hours/week) position until June 7th, 2023 •StartDate: ASAP

Location: Smithers,Telkwaand Houston Full Posting: https://nwcdc.ca/news/#careers Apply to: hr@nwcdc.ca

CCRR Resource Educator

Smithers and Area Child Care Resource and Referral Program

This is apermanentfulltime35hours/week position. StartDate: March1st,2022.

Full Posting: https://nwcdc.ca/news/#careers Applyto: hr@nwcdc.ca

Early YearsFamilyResourceNavigator

This is apermanent32hours/week position. StartDate: ASAP.

LocatedinBulkley Valley,Houston, Hazelton

Full Posting: https://nwcdc.ca/news/#careers Apply to: hr@nwcdc.ca

Lumber Canadian Operations

Skilled Help

Timber ServiceLtd,Quesnel,BC

ACCOUNTANT

Timber Serviceisa local values-based logging companywhereeach of us plays an importantroleincontributing to the success of our business

POSITION OVERVIEW:

TheAccountantisresponsible for financial procedures and systems; including financial reporting and analysis.Under the direction of the General Manager.The Accountant will supportthe business in the preparation of monthly financial statements,the annual budget,and ensuring proper financial controls areadhered to.

QUALIFICATIONS:

•The ideal candidate will be working towardsaCPA designation or a combination of experienceand education.

•Must have working knowledge and can perform key accounting functions; accounts payable,payroll, financial reporting and statistical reporting

•Strongorganizational,analytical, interpersonal and time management skills

•ProficientinMicrosoftOffice applications

•Experienceinthe forest industryand SAGE softwarewill be considered an asset

APPLYTODAY! If youare interested in exploring this opportunityand being a partofour community, please submit your resume to admin@timberservice.ca or 1720 Brownmiller Road,Quesnel BC V2J 0C5. Applications will be accepted until February15, 2022

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Dollar Saverlumber operates alumber re-manufacturing operation in PrinceGeorge.Wecurrently have an opportunity in our management group fora Sales Production coordinator.

This position is responsible to perform the following functions:

•Co-ordinate purchase of rawmaterial to meet mill requirements

•Co-ordinate Shipments of finished products to existing customers.

•Work with Mill Management to ensureoptimal inventories are maintained.

•Communicate with customers to ensuretheir needs arebeing met

Preferencewill be given forpersons

•Good computer skills including proficiencywith Microsoft Excel.

Thesuccessful candidate will possessthe following qualities

•The ability to deal with customer needs in acalm constructive manner

•The ability to adjusttorapidly changing conditions and developments

•The ability to work both independently and as part of ateam.

•Good analytical skills

Theposition offers:

•Acompetitivesalary and benefit package

•Opportunity to work in friendly non- bureaucratic environment

Please submit your resume to Frank Skerlak, General Sales Manager at fskerlak@lumber.caorBev at:gobbi1@telus.net

Only those persons chosen foran interviewwill be contacted.

Out Of Town

WL1729

2022-2032 Woodlot Licence Plan

Laura and Mark Grafton have prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten year period from 2022 to 2032 for WL1729. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule A Lands, east of Saxton Lake (private), and Schedule B Lands, near Steele Lake (crown).

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days Written comments should be received by Feb 28, 2022. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

Ron Parker, RPF

SBS Forestry Inc.

1541 Ogilvie

NOTICE

APPLICATION FORPRIVATEBILLS

NOTICEisherebygiven that pursuanttoStandingOrder 97 of the Legislative Assembly of BritishColumbia, applications forPrivate Billsmustbe filedwiththe Clerkofthe Legislative Assembly not laterthan14daysafter theopeningofa Session. Anew Sessionis expected to open on Tuesday, February 8, 2022.

Applications forPrivate Billsmustconform to StandingOrders97115 of theLegislative Assembly (availableonlineatwww.leg.bc.ca). Forfurther information,pleasecontact theOffice of theClerk, Room 221, Parliament Buildings, Victoria,BCV8V 1X4, Tel: 250- 387-3785, E-mail: OfficeoftheClerk@leg.bc.ca..

Kate Ryan-Lloyd Clerkofthe Legislative Assembly

WL 1721

2022-2032

Woodlot Licence Plan

0716324 BC Ltd has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten year period from 2022 to 2032 for WL1721. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule A Lands west of Norman Lake (private), Schedule B-1 Lands NW of Norman Lake (crown), and Schedule B-2 Lands between Kingfisher Lake and Summit Lake (crown).

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days Written comments should be received by Feb 28, 2022. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

Ron Parker, RPF

SBS Forestry Inc.

1541 Ogilvie St

Prince George, B.C. V2N 1W7

Ph 250-561-1140

DOWN

48. Punk art icon Jimmy De__ 49. Millihenry

52.Type of withdrawal 53. Spicy 56. Dish of minced meat

61. Noted previously 63. Happily 64. “Partridge” actress Susan 65. Not present 1. In a way, brought to an end 2. Scandalized actress Loughlin 4. Essay

6.Tool for lifting food 7. Partner toAdam

Dry white wine drink

Spanish be

Smaller quantity

Last or greatest in an

planet 47.Atype of residue

17. Polite address for women

22. Famed Susan Lucci character “__ Kane” 23. Mason Line

25.Asian nation

28. Khoikhoin peoples 29. Opera solo 32. Database management system

36. Similar

38. Move up and down playfully 40.Alfalfa of S.America

46. Money given in support

51. Flower cluster

54. Beginning military rank

55. Russian weight measurement

56. Explosive

57.An individual unit

58. Midskirt

59.Weapon featuring balls

60. Used of a number or

62. Unit of measurement

Adult Personal Messages

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

COLLECTOR PURCHASING COINS &COINCOLLECTIONS

CollectorPurchasing Coins &Coin Collections! Buying OldCoins,Rolls Of Coins,BankBags Of Coins,Rare Coins,CollectorCoins,Olympic Coins,Old Paper Money, Pre1968 Coins,Royal Canadian Mint Coins, Us Mint,Collections +.Wanted Canada, Usa& WorldCollections! Todd’s Coins 1.250.864.3521

BOOKEEPING

OldGal’s Taxand Business Services

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business,

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Wills, POA, and other business services upon request. 250-561-0415 carol-ann@oldgals.ca

BUYING COINS

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FIREWOOD

BIRCH Firewood in 20 foot lengths. Delivered by dumptruck load.$900. or bucked to length $1050 per load delivered 250-614-6667

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WANTED 999 BULLION BARS &COINS! ENGELHARD,JOHNSON MATTHEY, RCM, MAPLE LEAFS +ALL OTHER MINTS. ALSO BUYINGOLD MONEY, ALL GOLD &SILVERCOINS, COIN COLLECTIONS. +BUYING ALL THINGS MADE WITH GOLD OR SILVER. TODD’S COINS1-250-864-3521

Foronly $50 +TAX, youget 4DisplayAds in Thursday’s Business Directory plus aClassified Ad for 4Issues Call 250.562.6666 to book your space now.

HOMES

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

DESIGN TRENDS • HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS • OUTDOOR LIVING

4 ideas for a statement ceiling

When renovating, many people forget to incorporatetheirceilingintotheoveralldesign. However,this surface shouldn’t be ignored. Herearefourceilingupdatesyoumaywant toconsider.

1. EXPOSED BEAMS

Aceilingwithexposedbeamscanaddvisual intriguetoamodernortraditionalhome.You canoptforthick,rusticwoodbeamsorthin, low-profile faux beams. To create contrast and draw the eye upward, paint yourbeams adarkercolourthanyourwallsandceiling.

2.

PAINT

To add style to a room, consider pairing a dark ceiling with light-coloured walls. In a large room, this can create definition and make other features, such as artwork and light fixtures, stand out. In a small space, a darkceilingwilllendacosy,intimatefeel

3. MOULDINGS

There are a variety of decorative features you can install on your ceiling to add charactertoyourspace.Emphasizethetransition betweenyourwallsandceilingwithclassic crown mouldings, or add grandeur to any roominyourhomewithegg-and-dartmouldings.

4. WALLPAPER

Applying wallpaper to a ceiling is an easy waytoinjectpersonalityintoaroom.Ifyou wanttomakeastatement,optforwallpaper that has a bold geometric, striped or floral print. If you prefer a look that’s a bit more understated, look for a simple design in a neutralorlightcolour

To get help making your statement ceiling cometolife,reachouttoaninteriordesigner, architectorgeneralcontractorinyourarea.

What to include in a reading nook

Whether it’s in your bedroom or a quiet corner of the living room, everyone deserves a cosy spot they can retreat to for some downtime. Here are a few musthavesforyourreadingnook.

•Afabricarmchairwithasmallottoman orpouf,orasoftchaiselounge

•Asourceofnaturallightaswellas aconvenientlyplacedfloorlamp

•Anendtablewhereyoucanputyour comfortingbeverageofchoice

•Afewplushthrowpillowsandalarge, softblanket

•Apopofcolourtomakethespace feel soothingyetinviting

•Asmallarearugtodefinethespaceand keepyourfeetwarm

•Anassortmentofpottedplants oradriedflowerarrangement

•Acandleoressentialoildiffuser witharelaxingscentlikelavender orrosemary

Finally, don’t forget to add a classic bookcase, built-in shelving or an elegant magazine rack with an assortment of your favouritereads.

SNOW REMOVAL:

siteistoo bigortoo small. We have the equipment to getthe jobdone!

Finding Homes for Families

Design a bedroom your child can grow into

It can be expensive and time-consuming tofrequentlyupdateyourchild’sbedroom as they get older and their interests change. If you want to create a space they’ll feel at homeinforyearstocome, here’ssomeadvicetofollow

•Buy a “big kid” bed. A wrought iron or upholstered headboard and matching bedframewilllookjustasappropriateina teen’s bedroom as it will in a child’s. If you have the space, skip straight to a doublebed.

•Invest in timeless furniture. Opt for wood or white bookcases rather than colourful storagebinssoyoudon’twind

upwithpiecesthatfeeltoojuvenileina few years.You should also avoid childsizefurniturethey’llsoonoutgrow.

•Pickaneutralpaintcolour.White,greige orcreamwallswillprovideaneutralbackdrop for colourful art and accessories, which can be easily updated as your child’stastesevolve.

•Keep staple items classic. Favour an area rug with a geometric or floral pattern rather than a space- or princess-themed one. Similarly, invest in window coverings that will stand the testoftime.

• Personalize the space with accessories.Usefunblankets,throwpillowsand wall hangings to make the space more child friendly You can even encourage your kids to paint their own frames and choosewhatphotostodisplay

Remember to keep your child involved in the process. While you should avoid givingthemfreereinonthedesign,don’t hesitatetoletthemselectcertainitemsor choosebetweenseveraloptions.

Tips for adding a window seat to your home

Doyouwanttoaddawindowseattoyour home? Whether it’s for a breakfast nook, livingroomorhomelibrary,hereareafew tips.

•If you want it to be comfortable, your window seat should be at least 40 centimetres (16 inches) deep and 80 centimetres (32 inches) wide If you want to sit or lie sideways, the seat should be at least 100 centimetres (39 inches) deep and 122 centimetres (48 inches) wide You should also make sure the unit sits flushwiththebottomofthewindow

•For the ultimate in comfort, the seat cushions should be at least 7.5 centimetres (three inches) thick. In addition, you may want to consider adding a backrest

or placing large pillows or bolster rolls on either side that you can lean up against.

•Thewindowsillbesidetheseatshouldbe atleast20centimetres(eightinches)wide so you have enough room to put down yourbookandcoffeemugordecoratewith pottedplantsandotheritems.

•If you want to combine style and function, add a few drawers or cubbies underneath the window seat where you can stow away books, toys, board games and otheritems.

To make your window seat project come to life, start by getting quotes from several licensedgeneralcontractorsinyourarea.

Kaycie

Janine

Additions: should you build up or out?

If you want to expand your living space with an addition, you’ll need to decide whether to build horizontally or vertically.Here’salookateachoption.

BUILD UP

Depending on the zoning restrictions in your area regarding setback and floor-toarea ratio, you may need to add space to yourhomewithoutincreasingitsfootprint. Buildingupisalsoidealifyoudon’twantto use your yard to accommodate the addition.Keepinmindthatyou’llneedtoallot a sizable amount of living space to a

How to repair a pocket door

Pocket doors are great space-savers because they conveniently disappear into the wall when opened. However, fixing a pocket door can be a hassle, as many common issues necessitate removing the trimorasectionofdrywall.Here’showto goaboutdoingthis.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

To repair a pocket door that’s misaligned orhasfallenoffitstrack,you’llneed:

•Aputtyknife

•Aprybar

•Acordlessdrill

•Abubblelevel

•Awrenchset

If the track must be replaced entirely, you’llalsoneedadrywallsaw

STEPS TO FOLLOW

Use a putty knife and pry bar to gently wrest out the three sections of door trim. Takecarenottodamagethetrimsoitcan be reinstalled later Next, use a drill to unscrew the floor guide beneath the door. You should now be able to remove the door and reposition it correctly on its track.

stairwell.

BUILD OUT

Althoughyou’llsacrificesomeyardspace, increasing the footprint of the ground floor causes much less disruption to the existinglivingspace.Amongotherthings, you won’t have to beef up the structural supports to account for the added weight, and you won’t havetoopenwallstoaccess electrical,plumbingorheatinglines.

For expert advice on the best way to expand your home, speak with a reputable localcontractor.

4 types of interior doors

Interior doors come in a wide variety of styles. Here’s an overview of four types youmaywanttoconsiderforyourhome.

1.Paneldoorsareaclassicchoice.They’re affordable, durable and often feature stylish square or oblong panel configurations. They’re most suitable for high-traffic areas such as bathrooms and bedrooms.

2.Bi-fold doors fold outward and tuck in close to the wall to save space. Consequently, they’re a great option for tight areas such as closets, laundry rooms, pantriesandstoragerooms.

3.Barn doors are the perfect complement to a home that has a rustic, industrial or farmhouse design. They hang from a top rail, allowing them to slide over large openings. Consequently, they’re

great for dividing spaces like offices and playrooms.

4.French doors instantly add charm and sophistication to your home. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, styles and glass pane configurations. The double door design is perfect for cordoning off living rooms and formal dining rooms while still allowing in plenty of naturallight.

Youcanalsochoosebetweendifferenttypes of cores for your interior door to increase privacy and effectively block out sound.

For personalized advice about what style of door would best suit your home, reach out to an interior designer or the sales staffatyourlocalstores.

If you need to access the portion of the track hidden in the wall (to replace it, for example) you’ll have to cut out a small section of the drywall next to the door opening.You’ll then be able to use a drill tounscrewthetrack.

Keep in mind that if you want this repair work done quickly and seamlessly, it’s best to leave it to a professional contractor

GO FOR GOLD.

A buyer’s guide to washers and

dryers

Are you in the market for a washer and dryer? Here are some things to keep in mindasyoushopforyournewappliances.

SIZE

Measure how much space you have to accommodate a washer and dryer Keep in mind that you need to leave room behind both appliances for plumbing and ventilation. You should also factor in how many peoplewillusethemachines.

TYPE

Top-load washing machines with agitators are often the most affordable option, but they tend to be louder, less efficient and hasher on clothes than high-efficiency top-loaders.Alternatively,youcanoptfora front-loadwasher,whichusesatumbleme-

10 tips for moving in winter

thodtocleanclothes.Thiscauseslesswear on fabrics and removes more water for quickerdrying.

Dryers only come in front-load configurations.Ifyouwanttosavespace,buyfrontloadapplianceswithfront-mounteddisplay panelssoyoucanstackthem.

FEATURES

Most new washers and dryers come with a variety of energy-saving features such as automatic temperature control and moisturesensors.Tomakesureyourappliances are energy efficient, be sure to look for the EnergyStarcertificate.

To find the right washing machine and dryer for your home, visit the appliance storesinyourarea.

Are you moving this winter? If so, you’ll need to take into account the likelihood of cold temperatures, slippery conditions and blizzards.

Hereareafewtipstoensureyourmoveisas safeandstressfreeaspossible.

1.Keepaneyeontheforecast,anddon’thesitatetorescheduleifthere’sastorm.

2.Doublepackfragileitemsandelectronics sothey’relesslikelytobreakinthecold

3.Clearthewalkwayanddrivewayofsnow andicetopreventanyaccidents.

4.Coverthefloorswithplastictarpstokeep themcleanandavoidwaterdamage.

5. Turn off the heat since people will be

goinginandoutofthehouseallday

6. Put a space heater in the bathroom with thedoorclosedsoyouhaveawarmretreat.

7. Board your pets so they’re not underfoot orstuckinanunheatedhouseallday

8. Confirm the utilities are working at the newhousebeforeyouarriveonmovingday.

9.Havewarmclothes,spareglovesandbeddinginthecarforeasyaccess

10. Fill a thermos with hot chocolate or a crockpotwithsoupforyouandthemovers

Finally, be sure to hire professional movers whohaveexperienceworkinginthewinter, andremembertotipthemwell