Prince George Citizen February 3, 2022

defender Dario Lopez on Saturday night at Northern Sport Centre The T-wolves lost to the Cascades 87-83 on Saturday and 88-76 on Friday.

Teachers sound alarm over staff shortages

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

A shortage of teachers is causing disruptions for students in the classroom, according to the Prince George District Teachers Association.

In a presentation to the School District 57 board of directors, PGDTA first vice-president Daryl Beauregard said currently the district is seeing an average of 130 teachers away each day.

“That’s leaving a big hole every day,” he said.

Many of those absences are being filled by support teachers – music teachers, teacher librarians and other non-classroom based teachers, he said.

The PGDTA estimates that support teachers in the district have spent 3,227 hours filing in for classroom teachers so far this school year, taking them away from their designated roles.

“It has been years now that the union has been bringing this to your attention,” Beauregard said.

While the district has been hiring more qualified and unqualified instructors teaching on call, not all of those substitutes are available on any given

day – resulting in support teachers being called to fill in, he said.

School trustee Tim Bennett – who chairs the district’s management and finance committee – said the committee received a staffing update on Jan. 17 from the district’s director of human resources.

The district currently employs 170 qualified teachers teaching on call (TTOCs) and 94 unqualified teachers teaching on call (TTUCs).

Since September, the district has hired 31 full-time teachers, 12 qualified teachers on call and 71 unqualified teachers on call.

“We are seeing significantly higher than average absences because of COVID-19… because of a whole bunch of things,” Bennett said. “HR shares the same concerns as Mr. Beauregard: making sure those TTOCs and TTUCs are getting out to classrooms.”

A current and ongoing job posting by School District 57 for casual TTUCs says the district is looking for uncertified substitute teachers for both the elementary and secondary level in Prince George, the surrounding rural areas, Mackenzie and the Robson Valley.

Enrolment limits placed on more local schools

ARTHUR

WILLIAMS Citizen staff

Parents in Prince George have fewer choices about where to send their children to school than in past years.

For the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years, enrolment at Edgewood, Glenview, Hart Highlands, Harwin, Heritage, Ron Brent, Southridge and Springwood elementary schools were restricted to students living in their catchment areas

only. Last week, the district board of education voted to expand that list to include Beaverly, College Heights, Malaspina and Vanway elementary schools as well.

“In this district… parents have been lucky, we’ve had a choice,” trustee Ron

Polillo said. “Now we’re being challenged. Some of the choices will be restricted next year, and in years to come. We have a growing vibrant city – and that is a great thing – but it has challenges.”

See CAPACITY on page 4

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

TIMBERWOLF ON THE HUNT UNBC Timberwolves forward Fareed Shittu makes a play against Fraser Valley Cascades

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 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 Bylaws, Application, 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.

REQUEST FOR COMMENT

rezoning application (Bylaw 9203, 2021).

Tax increase approved

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

2011, AMENDMENT BYLAWNO. 9202, 2021

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

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

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.

REQUEST

OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN

BYLAW NO. 8383, 2011, AMENDMENT BYLAWNO. 9254, 2021

Subject Property –2989 Barr 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 afuture20lot, single residential subdivision on the subject property This application to amend the Official Community Plan also includes arezoning

FOR COMMENT

application (Bylaw 9255, 2021).

Please visit the City of Prince George website at www.princegeorge.ca/landuse for moredetailed information.

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 28, 2022 to the Development Services Division at 1100 Patricia Boulevard, PG V2L 3V9, Fax: 561-7721, Email: devserv@princegeorge.ca.

City council has approved a three per cent tax increase for 2022.

The approved tax increase came in below the potential 6.55 per cent the city was facing to maintain the status quo. Council approved a series of budget cuts to get the tax increase to 5.84 per cent, and then authorized using roughly $3.2 million from the provincial Safe Restart Fund the city received in 2020.

The budget was approved 8-1, with Coun. Kyle Sampson voting against the motion. Sampson said if council had approved the budget cuts he’d proposed in 2021 and this year, the tax levy would have been down to 2.77 per cent without using any Safe Restart funding. The city has $6.11 million of the Safe Restart funding available, as money authorized to

reduce the tax increase to zero per cent last year didn’t need to be used.

In 2021, the property taxes on an average Prince George home – appraised at $341,075 in 2021 – was $2,270, according to a report to city council. The three per cent increase will see taxes on an average home in the city rise by roughly $68. Had council approved the 6.55 per cent increase, the average home would have seen a roughly $149 tax increase in 2022.

After lengthy debate, city council approved the 2022 RCMP budget, maintaining service levels at status quo from 2021. The City of Prince George is looking at a $2.4 million increase in its policing cost this year, due to a labour contract negotiated between the federal government and the RCMP union.

“It’s not zero, but it meets the needs of a lot of people on fixed income,” Coun. Murry Krause said.

Capacity growing issue

Continued from page 1

In addition to the catchment area restrictions, there will be half as many French immersion Kindergarten spaces available at College Heights Elementary for the 2022-23 school year. Only 20 Kindergarten French immersion spaces will be available, down from 40 in the previous two years.

Ecole Lac des Bois and Polaris Montessori Elementary will be restricted at 60 and 40 new Kindergarten students, respectively. Those limits remain the same as in the previous two school years.

The board lifted a restriction limiting Spruceland Traditional Elementary to only 40 new Kindergarten students, which had been in place the past two years.

Superintendent Cindy Heitman said if more Kindergarten students are registered for programs than there are spaces available, a lottery system will be used to determine who gets in. The lottery will be held on Feb. 8 at 4 p.m. Ensuring that schools have enough capacity for the students who live in the catchment area

is a top priority, she added.

College Heights Secondary School and Duchess Park Secondary School’s regular program are both also restricted to students in their catchment areas. Those restrictions remain unchanged from the previous two school years.

The restrictions were based on the recommendations in a Jan. 19 report by the Expanded Committee of the Whole Catchment and Capacity Review Rightsholder and Stakeholder Advisory Committee.

The committee raised concerns about school capacity for many of the schools in College Heights. DP Todd Secondary School is already operating with six portable classrooms, and the district is lobbying the provincial government for funding for a planned expansion to the school to increase the capacity from 650 students to 900.

Prince George Secondary School is also operating at near-capacity, and new residential developments could put a strain on some schools in the Hart area, the report said.

Visit

Woman pleads guilty to fatal shooting

MARK NIELSEN Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A woman pleaded guilty to careless use of a firearm in relation to a deadly discharge of a rifle in 2018.

Through an agreed statement of facts, Martha Mary Joseph, 38, admitted responsibility for the death of Shauna Sam on June 21, 2018.

The two women and two men had been driving back to the Yekooche reserve,

about 75 kilometres northwest of Fort St. James, after they had gone out to fire off some rounds at a nearby clearing.

Sam was sitting in the front passenger seat and Joseph was sitting directly behind her with the gun, a .303 Lee Enfield rifle, in her possession. The gun went off, the court was told, and the bullet struck Sam in the back.

Joseph had been facing a charge of manslaughter prior to entering the guilty plea. In pleading guilty to the lesser count,

New daycare set to open

HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff

Prince George’s newest childcare centre is ready to open and welcome children through its doors in March.

The new YMCA Park House Care and Early Learning Centre will address the city’s critical need for childcare spaces in the downtown core.

It’s located across from city hall next to the Park House condominiums and will be operated by the Northern BC YMCA.

In 2020, the Province of BC and the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) announced they were supporting the City of Prince George in the project, which includes 85 new childcare spaces. There are 25 group childcare spaces for ages 30 months to school age, 48 school-age spaces, and 12 infant and toddler spaces.

“This is the greatest need across the province for this age group,” said Lynette Mikalishen, YMCA of Northern B.C.‘s director of childcare services on a tour of the infant and toddler room.

“Many, many children and parents looking to go back to work are looking for care for their young children so we are excited to be able to offer 12 additional spaces in the community and to start to move some people off of our waitlist.”

Data collected by city staff for the city’s Childcare Action Plan has revealed

a high-degree of need or increased childcare spaces for all age groups, but particularly for infant, toddler, and school age care.

Families reported experiencing significant difficulty in accessing care according to their specific needs, with downtown spaces and spaces in the Hart neighbourhood being particularly hard to secure.

Mikalishen said the new spaces available at Park House will be filled gradually from the current wait list.

“We are going to start to meet community needs little by little,” she said as both COVID-19 and a Canada-wide shortage of Early Childcare Educators (ECEs) across Canada have impacted the organization’s staffing levels.

“We will keep moving in people off our waitlist as we have the staff and capacity to do that and in a safe way.”

Mikalishen noted the need for childcare in Prince George is so great that some families have been waitlisted for more than two years.

“Quite honestly we tell people the moment you know you are expecting or think you are expecting the families should go on the waitlist,” she said. “It’s really challenging and super impactful for predominantly women who are trying to go back into the workforce and back into their careers and it really creates inequality in lots and lots of ways.”

Joseph waived her right to a trial. She will be sentenced in B.C. Supreme Court at a later date.

JUDGE DISMISSES CASE

A judge has dismissed a case a former employee brought against a Prince George-based air service and has ordered him to pay more than $3,500 after finding he “purposely, deliberately and intentionally” delayed the proceedings.

Provincial Court Judge Judith Doulis found Brooklyn Anderson’s continued

failures to pay a deposit to the court “constitutes blameworthy conduct.”

At issue is a now-four-year-long dispute between Anderson and Northern Thunderbird Air Inc. over who owed who and how much.

Doulis found NT Air is entitled to $3,500 for the unpaid portion of a bond plus interest, as well as $304 in fees. If Anderson does not pay the full amount owing, Doulis said the matter will be brought back before her on Feb. 23.

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

‘It’s hitting closer to home’

Lheidli T’enneh Chief Logan calls for support for Williams Lake First Nation

HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff

Some readers may find details in this story distressing

Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan is calling for support for Williams Lake First Nation following tits preliminary findings in the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School investigation.

Last week, Williams Lake First Nation announced a recent geophysical survey, which included ground-penetrating radar, revealed the existence of an estimated 93 graves. These are preliminary findings and the investigation has searched only 14 out of 470 sectors of the site thus far.

The investigation comes after the use of ground-penetrating radar led to the discovery last year of what are believed to be 215 unmarked graves at a former residential school in Kamloops.

Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars said survivors recounted stories of children fathered by priests being incinerated, and of “many” children at the school being unaccounted for.

“The horrors that occurred inside the walls of St. Joseph’s Mission are still very real for those who lived there. And the legacy of these atrocities is still readily apparent in the numerous ways that

intergenerational trauma manifests in First Nations communities.”

The St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School was opened by the Roman Catholic Church in 1891 where First Nations children did labour like timber splitting, cattle rearing and farming, Sellars said. It remained open until 1981.

“It was hard to watch,” said Chief Logan, of the announcement. “If it wasn’t for Kamloops and releasing what their discovery was all of this would still be buried. These 93 children in Williams Lake would have never been found. The incinerator – we don’t know how many

people were in there.”

Logan said these findings are the “tip of the iceberg” and that Williams Lake First Nation needs more community support for the ongoing investigation of the St. Joseph’s Mission site.

Many Lheidli T’enneh members attended Lejac Residential School in Fraser Lake, 160 km west of Prince George which is on the traditional territory of Nadleh Whut’en.

sending them anything they need.”

The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) also issued a statement calling for support for the Williams Lake First Nation.

Lejac

is right there, and it is so close, and there are so many untold stories”

“Lejac – I’m not sure when they are going to do that – but it is hitting closer and closer to home,” said Logan. “Lejac is right there, and it is so close, and there are so many untold stories.”

She also called on the federal government and Roman Catholic Church to provide funding and support for the investigations.

“All of our members from residential school went to Lejac and Lheidli is there for anything they need. If they need help searching, or getting funding – anything they need,” said Logan.

“But they shouldn’t have to look for funding. The federal government and the church – everyone – should just be

EDUCATION

“Thousands of unmarked burials have been uncovered across Canada over the past several months. Each and every one of these lost children from the horrific Indian Residential School system deserve recognition, remembrance and a chance to be found, no matter how long it takes,” said Robert Phillips of the First Nations Summit Political Executive.

“We once again call on the federal and provincial governments to continue providing the necessary resources for each and every First Nation in Canada that had an Indian Residential School in their traditional territory, to undertake the important work of finding the lost children.”

- with files from the Canadian Press For support for Residential School Survivors or others who are impacted by these difficult findings, please reach out to the Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society at 1-800-721-0066 or www.irsss.ca.

Smokehouses planned for more area schools

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

School District 57 will be working with the Prince George Aboriginal Business and Community Development Association to bring traditional Indigenous smokehouses to more schools in the district.

The district board of education voted in favour of working with the association on the proposed project. Prince George Secondary School already has a traditional smokehouse, which was built over two years by wood shop students at the school.

District director of Aboriginal education Pamela Spooner said the smokehouses will provide all students a variety of learning opportunities in areas ranging from food preparation to history to sciences.

Students in the secondary school shop programs may have an opportunity to help build the smokehouses.

“We have many land-based programs at our schools,” Spooner said. “Everything that happens at the smokehouse isn’t about the food.”

The partnership is “a wonderful

A smokehouse at Prince George Secondary School was built by wood shop students at the school.

opportunity” for students, board chairperson Sharel Warrington said.

“This is amazing. I am 100 per cent in support,” trustee Rachael Weber said. “These kind of things, when they are built, kids who don’t normally communicate open up.”

CHIEF DOLLEEN LOGAN

CITIZEN

BC HYDRO’S2021INTEGRATEDRESOURCEPLANAPPLICATION

On December21,2021, BC Hydrofiled an applicationwiththe BritishColumbia UtilitiesCommission(BCUC) requestingacceptanceof the2021 IntegratedResourcePlan(IRP).

An integratedresourceplan is aguidebook forwhat, when,and howtomeetcustomers’evolvingelectricity needs. BC Hydro’s2021 IRPlooks ata20-yeartime frameand will guidedecisions on itsintegratedsystemto meetthefutureelectricityneedsofits customers.BCHydronotesthatthree definingfeaturesofthe 2021 IRP are: reliance on more customer-basedsolutions throughdemand-side measures;flexibility to preparefora possible future of higherelectricitydemand due to electrificationorlower demand resultingfrom economic downturns; andsupportingBCHydro’s mandateto incorporatethe United NationsDeclarationon theRightsof Indigenous Peoplesand theTruth andReconciliationCalls to Action

TheBCUCencouragesallpartieswho areinterestedinthe 2021 IRPtosharetheir feedback andinput by getting involved in theproceeding.

HOWTOPARTICIPATE

Submitaletterof comment

Registerasan interestedparty

Requestintervenerstatus

IMPORTANTDATES

Tuesday,March22,2022–Deadline to register as an intervener with theBCUC

For more information aboutthe Application, pleasevisitthe ProceedingWebpageonbcuc.comunder “Our Work –Proceedings”. Tolearnmoreabout gettinginvolved, pleasevisit our websiteat www.bcuc.com/get-involved orcontactusatthe informationbelow

BC HydroRegulatoryGroup

16thFloor,333 Dunsmuir Street Vancouver, BC V6B5R3

E:bchydroregulatorygroup@bchydro.com

P:604.623.3726

BritishColumbiaUtilities Commission Suite410, 900HoweStreet Vancouver, BC Canada V6Z 2N3

E:Commission.Secretary@bcuc.com

P:604.660.4700

All the COVID contradictions

Turning COVID-19 and vaccinations into political issues has made for some weird sights and sounds over the past two years.

Politicians and voters on the left normally believe individual rights are paramount over the majority and social norms, while those on the right traditionally blame the rise of individuals rights for the erosion of tradition and excessively rapid social change. COVID has upended that generalization. The centre-left now have no problem with vaccine mandates and oppressing the rights of a minority opposed to vaccinations for valid reasons while the centre-right are suddenly standing up for individuals from the oppression of governments and the majority.

Clearly, COVID hasn’t just changed social interactions, it’s destroyed irony and nuance.

Here in warped COVIDland, anti-vaxxers shamelessly adopt the pro-choice slogan of “my body, my choice,” conveniently ignoring the fact that nobody gets a highly contagious disease from women who have had an abortion Meanwhile, the vax crowd seem to have no issue with public shaming and social media trolling anti-vaxxers, using the same tactics they say are dangerous and unethical.

The political leaders and public health officials have made – and continue to make – mistakes through this crisis. Masks weren’t recommended in the spring of 2020, now they’re required to enter any public space. It’s now painfully obvious that the COVID-19 vaccines are more effective at preventing people from dying or getting seriously sick than they are at stopping people from getting COVID. Congregating in shopping malls and hockey arenas is OK but attending religious services isn’t? Having thousands of people under one roof to watch professional sports is OK but it’s not for the performing arts?

That’s just human error or incompetence, depending on perspective. So how does one take the leap from all the politicians and doctors are stupid beyond belief to somehow believing they’re all clever enough to secretly work in cahoots to take over the world? Good question for the next person who sends an email or text with a link to “what’s really going on.”

There is one thing that hasn’t changed. Whatever individual choices we make as adults always come with consequences, regardless of whether those consequences were foreseen or not, are fair or not.

That’s not COVID, that’s life.

- Editor-in-chief Neil

Godbout

Discrimination’s dilemma

At the heart of the recent school board by-election lies a report on discrimination in our school system. This is a hard subject to talk about but I will try.

Discrimination is something we all do. It is programmed into our genes. Our evolutionary ancestors had to discriminate between members of their own tribe and others. And others could be potentially hostile, so those who didn’t discriminate didn’t survive.

But just because it is hardwired into our makeup doesn’t make it right. Nor does it explain why some people feel it is okay to discriminate against some people but not others. Schools should be a safe place where students are each treated on their own merits and assumptions about students are minimized.

As a white male growing up in Vancouver, I can’t say that I was

AS I SEE IT TODD WHITCOMBE

discriminated against. However, in Grade 8, we had to take “Industrial Education” which involved three rotations – one in electronics, one in woodworking, and one in drafting.

My father was a carpenter so I was using tools long before going into Grade 8. The woodworking section was easy for me as was the drafting because he taught me how to draw. And electronics wasn’t particularly difficult because it was all just batteries, lights, wires, and resistors. When it came time to select my Grade 9 courses, my guidance counsellor knowing my background and aptitude said: “Well, we’ll put metal working in A-block, woodworking in

B-block, and drafting in C-block….” I interrupted and said: “But then how will I get my sciences?”

He responded: “You only need to have the sciences if you are going to university. Do you think you have what it takes to go to university?” I looked at him and said “Yes, I am going to be professor one day.” He laughed And laughed. I can’t help but wonder what my life would have been like if I hadn’t stood up to him.

Discrimination in schools can be subtle. And I can’t help but feel that there are lots of students in our school system who because of their race, culture, gender, sexuality, or any other distinction get asked similar questions and, instead of standing up for themselves, they let this sort of discrimination affect their lives.

Todd Whitcombe is a UNBC professor.

We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appli financier du gouvernement du Canada.

Teacher crisis started years ago

Canada has one of the finest education systems in the world. It provides the backbone of our well-trained workforce and our strong economy. In addition, our schools have been a great equalizer, providing the children of immigrants to our country with the opportunity to thrive and thus further enrich Canada.

Our education system today is struggling to keep up with the demands of the 21st century. One of the major factors impacting this has been the failure of the system to attract and retain teachers. The shortage of teachers across the country has been featured in news reports recently, but the crisis has been decades in the making

Since the late 1970s, a myth was perpetuated that public spending was a bad thing. Government workers, including teachers, were characterized as sloths milking the system, and tough neo-liberal politicians told

LESSONS IN LEARNING

GERRY CHIDIAC

voters that they would set things straight.

The impact has been catastrophic. Because of the way education is structured in Canada, the issue needs to be addressed on a provincial level. So, where do we begin?

First, we need to retain the teachers we have. Despite good physical health, many in my age bracket are retiring because there is little incentive to keep teaching. A teacher with 30 years of experience is paid the same as one with 10 years in the field. Incentives could include signing bonuses, expanded pay scales, and paid opportunities to mentor those who are new to teaching. Paid mentorships will also help

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

BACK TO BASICS

While the anger towards the current city council is understood, it is in many ways being directed in the wrong direction. Prince George City Hall has a number of bloated salaries being paid to people who are in upper management, people who couldn’t manage a beer-league hockey team to a losing season.

I understand the concept of cost-overuns, and simple mistakes, I understand construction delays and unforeseen issues with complex construction. What I do not understand is how local governance and city management continue to build capital projects that adhere to some illusion of local resource-centric, architectural design instead of functionality.

Over the last few years, we have seen buildings, such as the new fire hall and RCMP detachment, built as an homage to modern, northern art galleries, akin to something you might see in a Swedish Netflix production.

I don’t begrudge either of these two buildings, they’re needed, but the form definitely took an even stride with function, and in the case of the RCMP detachment, the interior design, something from the Bauhaus school, could have been discarded in favour of actual police spending.

The parking lot is another debacle that requires no further mention other than to say this.

Before the City of Prince George decides to slash spending in local

solve the issue of supporting and retaining those who more recently joined the ranks of teaching. The attrition rate for those in the first five years in the profession is disturbingly high, perhaps as much as onethird. Of course, reduced workload, higher wages, signing bonuses, and forgiveness of student loans will also improve the quality of life for these people and attract more university students into the field.

Finally, there needs to be a change in the public perception of teachers. We are hard-working, dedicated professionals who often use our summer holidays to attend school ourselves.

These changes will cost money, but let’s be honest, Canadian taxpayers have gotten a bargain on the backs of teachers for the last several decades. What goes around comes around, it’s just the way life works.

Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George teacher.

Are there adequate housing options in Prince George? See story on page 11

What do you think of the city’s 3% property tax increase for 2022?

Vote by pointing your phone’s camera at the QR code below.

RESULTS from last week’s polls:

Should hospitals charge for parking?

● Yes, otherwise people will take advantage.

147 votes, 18 per cent

policing, or hit us with another tax hike over and above the one coming from artificially increased property taxes, maybe they should start being a bit more thrifty on capital expenditures. Build structures that perform function, instead of building to honour the various artistic influences that are already overdone.

Make PG safer, make the downtown a haven of retail, residential, and entertainment, not a home for glass shops, government and band offices, or union halls, that belong elsewhere.

Successful cities have zoning, and sequester specific services within their respective areas; a needle exchange shop would never be found next to a sporting goods store or restaurant, except in P.G.

By the way, as much as the homeless need to be respected and solutions need to be found, showing respect to and working for the local businesses who are failing because they have been forgotten by the local government is required, and now.

Have you all forgotten the basic concepts behind successful business and public harmony? It’s time to start getting tough on vagrancy, drugs, and public loitering. Or many of us just may move elsewhere.

Michael Maslen

Prince George

LET THE RCMP BE

As I read the article from city council about the RCMP budget, I shook my head and wondered why?

Cutting officers from Prince George is like saying its now Januarty and we can no longer do snow removal.

The cost of crime and mental health in any city is and always will be expensive. As to compare what other cities pay, I would hope that everything is looked at and the size of the area policed is one example.

I am willing to bet that when the criminals and people with mental health issues get released, they re-offend and then again and again so our real problem then is with the court system and putting people back on the streets.

P.G. businesses should be mad as hell at the absurd idea of cutting police. Just a thought but if crime was high in the areas our councillors live in, would they still want cuts.

Roland Hill

Prince George

LETTERS WELCOME: The Prince George Citizen welcomes letters to the editor from our readers. Send your submissions by e-mail to: letters@ pgcitizen.ca. Handwritten letters will not be published. Maximum length is about 400 words and writers are limited to one submission every three weeks We will edit letters only to ensure clarity, good taste, for legal reasons, and occasionally for length. Although we will not include your address and telephone number in the paper, we need both for verification purposes. Unsigned letters will not be published.

● Yes, it encourages people to keep their visits brief. 43 votes, 5 per cent

● No, it’s not fair to visitors and day patients.

424 votes, 54 per cent

● No, it’s just another form of tax. 186 votes, 23 per cent

Will you be watching the Winter Olympics?

● Yes, to cheer on the Canadian and Prince George athletes.

130 votes, 18 per cent

● Yes, I love the Olympics. 82 votes, 12 per cent

● No, China shouldn’t have been allowed to host the Games.

295 votes, 42 per cent

● No, what else is on TV?

202 votes, 28 per cent

Read the full, unabrdged version of many of these articles and other interesting local stories at

‘It’s nothing new for my people back home’

UNBC student confident war won’t break out in Ukraine

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

As a native of Ukraine, UNBC student Volodymyr ‘Vova’ Pluzhnikov knows his homeland is at the centre of potentially volatile military conflict that could threaten world stability.

It is a concern for the 26-year-old student-athlete from Kharkiv, Ukraine, who came to Prince George six years ago to play basketball for the UNBC Timberwolves. But whatever happens, he says it’s beyond his power to change it and he’s not losing any sleep over it.

“I think people here especially are panicking a bit too much and I think the media is trying to make a bigger deal out of it,” he said. “It’s something my people have been dealing with for the last several years and it’s nothing new to my people back home, it’s just a hot topic here. A lot of people come to me and want to know my take on it and my message is I’m just trying to stay positive and hope for the best outcome. There’s not much we can do, we’re just the little guys.”

The conflict stems from the breakup of the Soviet Union and Ukraine becoming

an independent country three decades ago and Russia’s interest regaining territory it lost when the 14 former Soviet republics declared sovereignty in 1991. The push to regain access to Black Sea ports on the southern coast of Ukraine led to the Russia’s invasion and annexation of Crimean peninsula in March 2014.

In the latest crisis, Russia started massing troops and equipment near the Ukrainian border in the spring of 2021 and has stepped up the military buildup since November, raising the potential threat of an invasion. Russia has sent more than 100,000 Russian troops equipped with tanks and rocket launchers into the area – the largest concentration of firepower in Europe since the end of the cold war in 1991.

“Western Ukraine has been torn apart so many times and in the east you have a lot of people with a Russian background and if you ask them, they wouldn’t really care if they became part of Russia again,” Pluzhnikov said. “I lot of people didn’t want the Soviet Union to come apart in the first place. There’s a lot of tension inside the country and you just have to hope for the best. There’s no short-term or long-term solution to it right now, it’s just something my people will have to deal with for the next little while.”

Pluzhnikov’s parents and older brother still live in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, with a population of 1.44 million, and he speaks to them regularly to get updates on the political situation. Kharkiv is in northeastern Ukraine just 40 kilometres from the Russian border.

“To be honest, my parents are not worried about those things, they just keep their noses down and just work,”

Pluzhnikov said. “We’ve had so many different leaders and presidents, they’ve promised a lot of things and turned their backs to us. It’s difficult, you can’t put your hope in anyone’s hands right now. It seems there is no leader who will come and change things and it’s one of the reasons I decided to leave the country.”

Pluzhnikov grew up knowing about the political tensions between Russia and Ukraine and the detrimental effect it’s had on the economy of his home country. He realized his talent for playing basketball could be his ticket to a fresh start in Canada, where he felt there were more opportunities for prosperity. He emailed the coaches of every university and college team in Canada and the response he got back from UNBC head coach Todd Jordan convinced him to apply to UNBC as a foreign student.

Pluzhnikov already had a degree in organic chemistry from the National University of Kharkiv and a year of masters studies completed when he got to Prince George. He enrolled in the commerce program at UNBC and plans to pursue a career in marketing and sales. He will apply for permanent residency status and hopes to remain in Prince George.

“I would love to stay here,” he said. “This city has given me a lot of opportunities and love. I’ve built so many connections and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

UNBC Timberwolves guard Vova Pluzhnikov moves the ball up the court at Northern Sport Centre.

Medical drone deliveries to First Nations tested

HANNA PETERSEN Citizen staff

Drone technology is being used to improve access to healthcare supplies in rural and remote Indigenous communities, thanks to a pilot study that has gained the support of a major Canadian laboratory testing company.

The Stellat’en First Nation and Village of Fraser Lake are participating in the UBC faculty of medicine’s Remote Communities Drone Transport Initiative, a pilot program to see how drone technology can be used to improve access to healthcare supplies for Indigenous communities.

During the pilot study, drones will initially carry prototype packages between the Fraser Lake and Stellat’en First Nation.

“This type of project here is unique.

As a Native community, we’re at the forefront of the technology,” says Chief Robert Michell. “It would be amazing in 10 years’ time to see where this goes. This is definitely a first step, and we’re proud to

be a part of it.”

The initiative is also serving as a scalable model to enable the introduction of drone transport programs in other rural and remote Indigenous communities to improve access to healthcare supplies and services across B.C. and Canada.

Many rural and remote First Nations communities have unequal access to health care, due to factors such as transportation constraints and challenges with recruiting and retaining health care providers. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many of these accessibility issues, especially with regards to transportation and testing of patient samples.

“Technology can be a game-changer and transform access and delivery for citizens who live in these communities. That’s not going to happen overnight— there’s going to be a lot of hard work over many years to continue to refine what we understand to be possible with this technology,” says Dr. John Pawlovich, Rural Doctors’ UBC Chair in Rural Health.

Lack of housing options hurting growth: study

A two-year University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) study, which has resulted in the launch of a new online housing information portal, has found that the housing stock in smaller cities is out of step with population trends.

The portal is the result of a study funded by BC Housing and conducted by the Community Development Institute (CDI) at UNBC which looked at the state of housing in non-metropolitan B.C. which is defined as communities with a population under 100,000. The study found that in non-metropolitan B.C. the state of housing has become a key constraint on economic and community development.

CDI co-director Marleen Morris and her team found that there has been an increase in one- and two-person

households, due to more empty nesters and young people delaying having children and a decrease in four- and more person households. In the housing stock, there is an undersupply of one- and two-bedroom units and an oversupply of four- and more bedroom units. Seniors looking to downsize and young people looking for a small starter home have trouble finding what they need or want.

Housing stock in many of the sample communities is old, with 57 per cent built before 1981. The study also found that tenant financial vulnerability in non-metropolitan B.C. communities is almost as high as in Vancouver.

KEVIN WALLACE/WALLACE STUDIOS

A drone lands at Stellat’en First Nation during a delivery test.

Studio 2880 keeps evolving during COVID-19

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

As COVID-19 continues to rear its constantly-evolving head, one non-profit organization made the decision to take part in the Rapid COVID-19 (testing) Point of Care Screening Program offered by the Government of B.C.

Every day the Prince George & District Community Arts Council (CAC), some may know better as Studio 2880, tests all staff for the coronavirus.

“It’s one of the things we say now, ‘come for a COVID test’,” Sean Farrell, executive director for the PG CAC, said. He took the training and is certified to administer the tests and offers it to everyone who cares to take it including all the users groups within the Studio 2880 complex and those who take their classes.

“You just don’t know who has someone vulnerable at home or an elderly parent they need to protect,” Farrell said.

Another new feature at the Community Arts Council’s artisan gift shop is the feature gallery that is usually tucked into a smaller space has now been opened up to the bigger space for more COVID-friendly, socially distanced access.

Natalie Brekkas, administrative assistant and gift shop coordinator, has taken on the project that next sees the exhibit

called Legacies Revisited, featuring works created by well-known local, internationally renowned artist Betty Kovacic, who is offering to showcase her work during an opening reception Feb. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibit features work depicting historical stories of inspiring people overcoming hardship and discrimination. Kovacic will give an artist’s talk and refreshments will be served.

“Natalie has some really exciting ideas about how we can engage that space with many community groups and different artists beyond our day-to-day vendors,”

Farrell said.

Since the pandemic and its restrictions have settled into our daily lives the Community Art Council has revamped the gift shop. There are wide open spaces with most of the artwork and artisan-created pieces located on the perimeter of the space instead of scattered throughout it.

“The gift shop area has now become the feature gallery, too and we have a whole area where we feature artists and there is now a schedule where about every six weeks or so we’re going to change the exhibits and that includes

emerging artists and established artists,” Brekkas said.

Moving the feature gallery out of the little room into the gift shop space makes it much more user friendly, especially when it comes to the artists’ talks offered at the opening reception of each exhibit, Farrell added. There’s more room to safely socially distance.

There will also be pop-up markets, mostly taking place on Saturdays. They had a couple before Christmas and everyone was pleased with the results, Brekkas said.

“Most of them featured potters and they were hugely successful,” she added.

“They were really wonderfully done.”

The Community Arts Council will do the marketing to let people know about what events are taking place in the newly designated space so artisans will be supported with a venue and a shout out to the public.

“I really think we can make this space available to different groups that would like to do a little fundraising or a book sale or something like that and really take the idea of the gallery and gift shop so now there’s a new community space,” Farrell said. “This is something that will be ongoing. If there is a community group that would like to put on an event we are totally willing to support that, too.”

Mackenzie man wins big

Back in the summer, Eric West bought a Lotto Max ticket at the Mackenzie Mall but didn’t discover his $1 million win until Christmas Eve when he was visiting his mom in Hazelton

“I thought I won $1,000 so my mom said to go scan it at a retailer,” West said.

find out about his big win, followed by his brother who was also there.

“My mom has always helped me out so the first thing I want to do is buy her a new car,” he said about his plans for the prize.

So how does it feels to score the big prize?

to

“I was so surprised that it was actually $1,000,000 and not $1,000!” Naturally, his mother was the

“You just don’t believe it,” West said. “Even now it’s hard to believe.”

CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO

Natalie Brekkas, administrative assistant and gift shop coordinator, invites everyone to the newly relocated feature gallery that is now part of the gift shop space.

first

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

ROLLER DERBY ACTION! Rated PG Roller Derby hosted the Rated PG Open Scrimmage on Sunday at Roll-A-Dome. The scrimmage was open to all abilities but was geared towards those learning how to compete in roller derby.

Theatre NorthWest stage filled with Glory

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

She’s an actor who is reprising her role in Tracey Power’s play Glory and she’s a fight choreographer.

What does that have to do with anything?

On the stage at Theatre NorthWest from Feb. 3 to 23, Morgan Yamada will play a hockey goalie.

Glory is about four female friends setting out in 1933 to prove that Canadian girls can play hockey too.

Setting the scene as the four actors reinact some ‘on ice’ heavy hitting hockey action, knowing how to take body checks and bone-jarring falls comes in kind of handy for Yamada, who plays Nellie Ranscombe.

The play by B.C.’s Tracey Power is about the Ontario team, the Preston Rivulettes, who between 1930 and 1940 played an estimated 350 games. They only lost two games and tied three. The team established a winning record so strong 80 years later it remains unmatched in the history of women’s hockey.

Yamada was part of the original cast when the play made its debut in 2018 in Kamloops at the Sagebrush Theatre.

“I think being able to revisit a role is a true gift because you get to explore the role with different people,” Yamada said.

Theatre NorthWest presents Glory, a play about the best female hockey team in Canadian history. Actors include Morgan Yamada, from top left, William Kuklis, Emma Rendell, and from bottom left, Becky Frohlinger and Hailey Gardiner.

“Having been able to do this show with a collection of wonderful folks over the years every person you get to play with impacts your character development and impacts you. So I think that’s something really beautiful, being able to see different colours that come out over the course of the past years. I also think how the show reflects the current world we live in is very reflective of Nellie, too.”

The pandemic has changed everyone and Yamada said it’s all had an impact on her and she’s really had to grow up in the

Glory has it all

ANNA RUSSELL

Special to The Citizen

My parents, who had an appreciation for art but careers in science, put me in dance classes when I was three. My mom deemed it a good way to go for coffee one hour per week without a preschooler in tow. A win-win for everyone.

Of course, things snowballed from there, and eventually I wanted to do it all (on the days I didn’t want to cry and quit completely). My high school had a strong extra-curricular musical theatre program and if you were a dancer there was usually a part for you, and thus I became a musical theatre dancer and choreographer. My future career was taking shape!

Flash forward to 2021 and imagine my sheer delight as myself and the artistic team at Theatre NorthWest sat down and discussed Glory. Set in 1933, during the depression, four women set out to prove that hockey isn’t just for men.

It’s a play with roles for four women.

It’s written by a Canadian woman.

It has incredible and inspired choreography, but skips the singing.

This play is everything a double threat like myself could want from life! Glory is based on the true story of the Preston Rivulettes. Think “A League of Their Own” but with Hockey, and Canada.

While reading this play hit me in a

strangely personal way, as a performer and a *warning, scary word coming up here* feminist, it has amazing mass audience appeal. While the cast is comprised of mostly women, we also have a strong male presence represented by local Prince George actor William Kuklis. Kuklis plays Fach, the coach of the team.

The Preston Rivulettes won 26 titles during their first decade as a team. They were so successful that their existence hindered the Canadian Women’s Hockey League’s ability to expand, as new teams were not motivated to join a league with an unbeatable team.

Glory details the incredible journey of this team in a fun and entertaining way, and while I am tempted to include all the fascinating ups and downs of their journey I will save the rest for the stage. Suffice to say that on May 1, 2019 the CWHL shut down operations, citing an economically unstable business model, though the national women’s teams continue to dominate the Olympics at each opportunity.

In a fascinating and somewhat disappointing way, Glory shows us the history of women’s hockey in Canada – have we progressed since 1933? I would encourage you to buy a ticket and decide for yourself.

Anna Russell is an artistic associate at Theatre NorthWest.

last couple of years.

“I’ve had the gift of growing up with the show in my adult life and I think being able to dig into something in a different way with a different life experience is super helpful and super useful,” she said.

Within the play there are seven dance numbers that represent the seven games the team plays as the story unfolds on stage.

Yamada described the dance style as swing skating, a phrase coined by playwright Tracey Power, that encompasses

swing dancing with skating movements and hockey action set to jazz tunes.

This show is an exploration of what it means to be a woman in sport, she said.

“That was what initially drew me to the show,” she added. “I grew up in sportsnot in hockey but I grew up playing sports and just being able to see yourself on the stage in some capacity is so important for young women who don’t see themselves represented like that. We are always striving for more equity and through this play you can see that it’s happened before and it’s still happening now and how do we make it so that inequity starts to dissipate in the future.”

Local actor and voice actor for a Lego movie, William Kuklis, takes on the role of Coach Fach.

“It’s really exciting to be part of this play,” he said. “It’s been such a challenging show, especially for the women dancing it’s not just acting it’s very physical and I don’t know how they do it but it’s sure fun to watch.”

The story is so moving and inspirational, Kuklis added.

“I have a little daughter myself (she’s eight years old) and to be part of telling this inspirational story that is little known to be able to bring it to life and be part of that is really important. It’s exciting and I can’t wait for my daughter to see it,” Kuklis said.

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Summer Games countdown is on

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Long before Renee McCloskey became president of the 2022 BC Summer Games organizing committee, she experienced the thrill of the Games firsthand as an athlete.

In 10 Summer Games from 1982-96, she walked on water waving the Zone 8 flag in B.C. Summer Games water skiing competitions. Competing under her maiden name, Renee Foot, she was a frequent flier to the Games podium year after year, winning medals on the slalom course, on the jumps and in trick skiing.

If all goes according to plan, in six months Prince George will be hosting the B.C. Summer Games, with more than 3,000 athletes expected to descend upon the city for three days of competition, July 21-24.

That’s a big “if,” considering all the pandemic-related postponements and cancellations that have plagued organizers of sporting events over the past two years. But McCloskey, heading into her second year at the helm of the local committee, is keeping her fingers crossed the event will unfold as planned.

“It’s definitely a big undertaking,” she said. “I’ve been around the Games most of my life from all different angles but had never been involved in this part of it, in

An

of

on July

a

who were there for the opening ceremonies of the 1990 B.C. Summer Games. Prince George will host the event this summer, from July 21-24.

appreciating everything that’s involved in staging it. It’s quite a complex thing but we’re really lucky we have a great team here locally that’s all on board and working hard.”

McCloskey is part of the Foot family that put water skiing on the local sports map. Her father Howard, an inaugural member of the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame, opened the Nukko Lake Water Ski School in 1979 and the family produced a long line of B.C. Summer Games medallists that including Howard, his son Reg, daughter Renee and nephew Brian.

The B.C. Games were launched by the

B.C. government in 1978 with the Summer Games in Penticton and the following year Kamloops hosted the first Winter Games. It was an annual event until 1998, when it switched to even years only.

Prince George first hosted the B.C. Winter Games in 1981 and staged the Summer Games in 1990. The 1981 Games drew 2,100 athletes and the count was to 3,800 in the summer of 1990. McCloskey says about 3,000 volunteers will be needed for the 2020 Summer Games.

“It’s huge,” she said. “It’s similar in scope to the (2015) Canada Winter Games. The difference with ours is it’s

much shorter. It’s four days versus two weeks. In the Canada Games model they had Week 1 and Week 2 and you didn’t have one sport that would span the two weeks. But for our Games, everybody’s here and everybody’s competing for the full four days. We’re expecting between 3,000 and 3,200 athletes.”

With the pandemic hopefully in its waning stages, the hope for everybody involved is that it and other outside influences won’t be an issue by July.

Two B.C. Games events have been cancelled by COVID. The 2020 Summer Games in Maple Ridge and the 2022 Winter Games in Greater Vernon, which had been planned for this February.

“Plan A is staging these Games assuming that COVID isn’t the concern it is today. But we also have a number of contingency plans in the event we’re dealing with restrictions around how many people can gather or what we need to do with food services or accommodations and how many we can have in a classroom. First and foremost is that we’re providing a safe venue and games, not just for the athletes but for the volunteers, spectators and officials. We’re working with the team at Northern Health and going over planning with them to ensure that our plans are going to be appropriate for whatever public health considerations are in effect at the time.”

a weekend

a

Football courses planned

A pair of football courses for students in Grade 10 and Grade 12 are under development for College Heights and Shas Ti Kelly Road Secondary Schools. On Tuesday, the School District 57 board of education authorized the creation of Football 10 and Football 12 courses.

The programs will expand upon the Football 11 course already available,

teachers Grant Erickson and Steve Porter said. Erickson and Porter created the programs and coach the football teams at their respective schools.

The program will be open to boys and girls, Porter said.

The courses will be non-contact, with a focus on developing important football skills using both hands-on and classroom sessions, Erickson said.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

aerial shot

Massey Place Stadium, as it was known

12, 1990, shows

crowd estimated at 10,000

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

PUCK SCRAMBLE The Cariboo U17AAA Cougars split

doubleheader with the Vancouver North West Hawks, rebounding to

4-0 win on Sunday after losing 4-2 in Saturday’s game.

Pitcher turning heads

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

Softball season is still a few months away and she hadn’t pitched a ball since the fall but you’d never know it watching Corina McClure throwing heaters in the indoor cage.

Each pitch she unleashed at the glove of Jared Potskin seemed to have vapour trails attached and the snap of the ball tenderizing that soft leather pocket echoed off the walls.

The word is out on the 17-year-old McClure, a multi-sport athlete who also plays volleyball, and her pitching arm peaked the interest of several teams in the Lower Mainland that hoped to lock up her service as a weekend player available to play for them in tournaments.

She’s looking forward to being that fly-in player starting in April when she joins the Cloverdale Fury under-19 team. Until then, McClure is working out with Jared and his brother Nick Potskin, a shortstop with the senior men’s national team program, so she can hit the ground running as soon as she gets her chance to return to the outdoor diamonds.

“I’ve learned a lot of things from them, mechanics especially, things I can do on my own to help myself, and a lot of leadership qualities and things I can push for,” said McClure.

McClure grew up playing in the Prince George Minor Girls’ Softball League and in the Thunderbirds rep team program. This season, she’s helping coach the U15 Thunderbirds team. She’d seen her uncle, Colin Case, play slo-pitch, and he taught her the basics and she started playing house league ball when she was nine. McClure will never forget the day she asked her coach if she could pitch. It was her first season and it happened in a tournament in Quesnel.

“It was an open inning and we were leading 2-0 and I pitched and we lost

22-2,” she said. “I let in all 22 runs but somehow, I still wanted to pitch. My mom looked at me after the game and she was proud of me. I didn’t think anything of it because I thought, this is my first time pitching, I did great. I still pitch today, so it’s OK.”

McClure’s abilities as a chucker skyrocketed after she attended pitching clinics put on by Jackie Desilets, Softball BC’s Vancouver-based program director, and she plans to continue working with her.

McClure is in her Grade 12 year at Shas Ti Kelly Road Secondary School. In December, she wrapped up her high school volleyball career when the Grizzlies hosted the North Central zone championship and lost in the final to the D.P. Todd Trojans. She’s now playing club volleyball as a power hitter for the Prince George Kodiaks U-17/18 team.

Until her Grade 10 year, McClure also competed in wrestling, alongside her one-year older sister Kinsley. Kinsley was once fourth-ranked in Canada in wrestling but broke her collarbone, and that incident was enough to convince Corina to stop wrestling and focus more on softball.

Competitions were limited last summer because of the pandemic but she did play for the Little Chiefs in the John Cho Cup native fastball tournament at Spruce City Stadium and was selected as the top pitcher in the women’s division. McClure spent a lot of time on the field with coach Dave Cake and also played a few games in the Spruce City Men’s Fastball Association. She had hoped to be available to play for the Thunderbirds U-18 team this year but that won’t be allowed once she’s registered with her team in Cloverdale.

McClure, an A-B student, plans to study kinesiology and is trying to work out details of scholarship arrangement at Fontbonne University in St. Louis, Mo. The Griffins softball team at Fontbonne has advanced to the NCAA tournament nine times since 2002.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

Corina McClure goes through her windup while pitching in the cage at Northern Baseball Academy on Nicholson Street.

‘It’s madness to me’

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

High school sports athletes suffered yet another disappointment over the weekend when Education Minster Jennifer Whiteside extended the ban on school sports tournaments and multischool competitions.

After nearly two years of pandemic-related cancellations and postponements, the ministry decision is baffling to College Heights Cougars senior basketball coach Justin Rogers, especially considering many high school athletes also participate in community sports and cross over to those outside organizations for multi-team events but will not be allowed to play in tournaments with their school teams due to the ministry’s ruling.

“I’m just at a point now where whatever they want, I’ll do it, I’m kind of done fighting, it’s been almost two years of trying to get stuff done,” Rogers said.

Grade 12 student-athletes hoping to advance to post-secondary sports are especially feeling the pinch, said Rogers, with very limited opportunities to test themselves against their age group peers.

There’s been some suggestion that schools stage zone tournaments as single-day events involving just two teams at a time and having the games on two or three consecutive weekends, but the cost

of travel and accommodation would be prohibitive for out-of-town teams and that is jeopardizing their involvement in those events.

Local high school coaches frustrated by tournament ban

“The people who are really going to suffer as we head into the backstretch of basketball is season are the small towns like Dawson Creek and Quesnel,” said Rogers. “The way the current restrictions have gone, they’ve kind of asked us to stretch zone tournaments out over the course of a couple weeks, which is not feasible. Dawson Creek has already said they won’t participate because it’s not financially feasible. I know Williams Lake has a decent team this year and it’s going to be tough for them to make it. People are frustrated.”

The College Heights Cougars senior girls, led by provincial team member Rachel Loukes, are ranked fifth in B.C. but Rogers said they’ve been unable to line up other local senior girls teams willing to play them because they beat them by 50 or 60 points.

He said the Duchess Park junior A boys have stepped up as the Cougars’ recent opponents.

Meanwhile, the Duchess Park Condors

senior boys basketball team is ranked No. 3 in the triple-A poll but te Condors have played in only one tournament this season against provincial opponents of similar calibre.

With just five weeks left before the provincial championship in March in Langley, Condors head coach Jordan Yu had a busy travel schedule lined up for February which is now largely on hold.

“It’s madness to me,” said Yu. “I don’t think it makes any sense to me that community sports would be allowed to have tournaments and spectators. I think high school sports does a better job at these tournaments making sure everyone is safe and is following protocols and it doesn’t make any sense to me how one would be allowed and the other wouldn’t.

“I’m hopeful there will be a decision made in the next couple days that will reverse that decision. I’m hopeful that all the letters going to the Ministry of Education kind of turns their head and makes them rethink this. You don’t want staff shortages at school and these are things we’ve been working really hard to keep the numbers down and I feel like the

schools have been doing the right thing through this whole season. It’s pretty devastating news.”

The Condors are defending provincial silver medalists and are traveling to Kelowna this weekend for two games against the Kelowna Secondary Owls, ranked No. 9 among quad-A teams in the province.

But as Yu points out, that’s a seven-hour trip to play two exhibition games when they could be playing four games, if tournaments were allowed.

“The month of February is the time to amp up; we normally go to the Harry Ainlay tournament in Edmonton as a warm-up before our zone and provincial championships and now we’re not traveling to Alberta this year,” Yu said.

“All these things are adding up now. We were hopeful there would be a provincial championship at the Langley Events Centre but they’re worried about 50 per cent capacity and it being feasible to host provincials at the LEC now. Can BC School Sports or basketball pivot and host separate tournaments at different high schools for single-A to quadruple-A and do we have enough time to make this happen? That’s the scary part now.”

A parent-launched petition to protest the education ministry’s decision had gathered more than 10,600 names as of Monday.

Sports this week

HOCKEY

WHL: Prince George Cougars at Seattle Thunderbirds on Friday, at Everett Silvertips on Saturday.

BCHL: Prince George Spruce Kings at West Kelowna Warriors on Friday, at Merritt Centennials on Saturday.

BC Elite Hockey League: 18U – Cariboo Cougars vs. South Island Royals, Saturday 2:30 p.m., Sunday 6 a.m., CN Centre; 18U Female – Northern Capitals at Greater Vancouver Comets, Friday 8:15 p.m. in Richmond; Northern Capitals at

Vancouver Island Seals, Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m., in Chemainus. 17U – Cariboo Cougars at Greater Vancouver Canadians, Saturday 2:30 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m., in Richmond. 15U - Cariboo Cougars vs. Vancouver Northwest Hawks, Saturday 2 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m., in Fort St. James. BASKETBALL

U SPORTS Canada West Conference –UNBC Timberwolves at Trinity Western University Spartans (in Langley), Friday, women at 6 p.m., men at 8 p.m.; Saturday, women at 5 p.m., men at 7 p.m.

JORDAN YU

CITIZEN PHOTO BY JAMES DOYLE

REGIONAL RIVALRY The IDL Projects U18 Cougars hosted the Quesnel Thunder on Sunday in Kin 2. It was a physical game with lots of big hits coming from both teams but the Cougars were able to skate to a 5-3 victory.

Healthy North y

COVID-19 vaccinations for children are safe and effective: From aPrince

GeorgePediatrician

By Dr.KirstenMiller

My name is Dr.Kirsten Miller and Iama pediatrician in Prince George. Iamalso a parent to three children, aged 10 to 16.

COVID-19 is still present in our region and while most children who become infected with COVID-19 have amild illness, that is not true for all of them. Also, manychildren in our region have been affected by seeing loved ones and family membersbecome extremely ill from this virus.

Iwould liketoencourage parents to have their 5to11year old children vaccinated against COVID-19, and to encourage youth aged 12-18 to get vaccinated against COVID-19. TheCOVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective for everyone. Iam confident in the scientificevidence for the vaccines, and my own children have been vaccinated.

By having your children vaccinated, you are not only protecting them from the

possibility of severe illness, but you are also helping your community by reducing the spread of infection. Please, help keep our communities, family membersand children safe by ensuring that all those who are eligible, including children, are vaccinated against COVID-19.

Formore information on the benefits and safety of vaccines for children, visit the Children and COVID-19 Vaccinations page on the BCCDC website: bccdc.ca/health-info/ diseases-conditions/covid-19/ covid-19-vaccine/vaccines-children

To find avaccine clinic near you, visit the NorthernHealth website: northernhealth.ca/health-topics/ covid-19-immunization-clinics

When to get aCOVID-19 test: Updated guidelines

As COVID-19 activity increases across B.C., guidance for when to get aCOVID-19 test hasbeenupdated

ACOVID-19 test is not recommended if:

•You have no symptoms, even if you are aclose contact of someone who has tested positive

•You arefully vaccinated (two doses), experiencing mild symptoms and can manage your illness at home. Self-isolate for five days. Notify your close contacts so they can self-monitor for symptoms

ACOVID-19 test is recommended if:

•You have symptoms, and:

oYou are at higher risk of severe illness oYou identify with ahigh risk setting -such as health care workers, firstresponders, residents of congregate settings, or live in aremote or rural community

If you feel unwell and are unsure about your symptoms, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.

More details and afull list of eligible symptoms and criteria is found here: bccdc.ca/health-info/diseasesconditions/covid-19/testing/ when-to-get-a-covid-19-test

Still not sure? Use the B.C. COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to determine if you need to be tested: bc.thrive.health

SC OPES &P UZ

ACROSS

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Supportive

Nibble

Kojak’s lack

Captain’s record 14. Strong cord

Wheel shaft

Piercing tool

Had creditors

Utter unhappiness 20. Generation

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Finished

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Shy 33. Wood cutter 34. Plural pronoun

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Vegetable drawer

Chunk of eternity

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Classifieds

Purl, e.g.

On the crest

Perform

Long stick

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Gloom

Diamond shape

Nasty look

Lawn material

21. Most scarlet

Rectify

Pats gently 26. Depart 27. Not accept 28. Affirmative votes 29. Cozy corner 30. Yellowfin or albacore 32. Demanded 41. Narrow

43. African animal, shortly 45. Toothed tools

47. Pigeon-____ 48. Clothed 49. That woman’s 50. 100% 51. Hitch 52. ____-man band

54. Pigeon sound

PUZZLE NO. 856

Farce

Feels unwell

Envy’s color

Scrap

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Creak

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Turned

HOW TO PLAY:

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every3x3 box contains the numbers 1through 9only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with adarkerline. You alreadyhave afew numbers to get you started. Remember: you mustnot repeatthe numbers 1through 9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.

CL ASSIF IEDS

Lincoln James WHITEHEAD

May 29, 1971 - February 6, 1993

Remembering Lincoln

We can’t feel saddened over the loss of those we love without first remembering the joy of loving them. The real sadness would have been never having had them in our lives at all. Remembering is a journey the heart takes, back into a time that was, and our thoughts are the only tickets needed to ride. We who have truly loved are blessed.

We are blessed because he’s always remembered and forever loved...

Mom & Dad

Charlene Dettling & Raye Sherback and sister, Shandee Whitehead

REMEMBRANCES

LEO DENNIS ROE

September 8, 1958Peacefully passed December 4, 2021

Survived by - mother - Sally Roe, siblings Michael Roe, Ron Roe (Michelle) & Cathy Blacker (Nick), children Tara Roe (Larry) & Chelsey Roe (Mitch), child by choice Shannon Brown (Mathew), grandchildren Kassidy, Fallon, Harlen, Gia, Olexa and Lilly, nieces and nephews Kandice (Scott), Kurtis (Pamela), Amy (Rob) and Rylei (Alex) and so many more family & friends.

Predeceased by Fay Rahn, father Leo Roe and nephew Ethan Blacker.

There will be Celebration of life on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at the Croatian Hall- 8790 Old Cariboo Rd, Prince George, BC from 12 pm - 6 pm. Come anytime you’d like.

“Thanks for coming out”

July 9, 1923January 24, 2022

Joyce peacefully passed away into the arms of her Lord on January 24, 2022. She is survived by her loving family: eight children (Carol, Melody, Bob, Elizabeth, Susan, Lynne, David, and Darlene), 28 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren. Joyce was born in New Westminster, B.C. and was the youngest of seven children. She married Bill Shatford on September 28th, 1944, and they were married for 71 wonderful years until his death in 2015. Sweethearts forever!

Joyce was known for her positive and boundless energy and was swimming and playing badminton well into her 90s. She was a great support to her husband in his ministry - playing piano, teaching Sunday school, and hosting countless guests at her table. She loved music, especially singing, and passed this love on to her children. She also loved a “quick” game of Scrabble or Skipbo, shortbread and chocolate, and being anywhere near the ocean or the lake. Her joy and enthusiasm in all she did, her indomitable spirit, and her beautiful smile will be missed by her family and many friends.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022 at 1pm at the Prince George Funeral Service, located at 1014 Douglas Street, 250-562-3880.

Shatford, Jessie Joyce

Zonia Gail Ann Wood

May 10, 1946 - January 25, 2022

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved wife Zonia Wood on January 25, 2022 in Prince George, BC.

Born in Calgary, AB, Zonia graduated from Nursing and spent her lifetime caring for others.

Zonia is survived by her loving husband Frank of 27 years, children Frank, Lee, Darren, Laura and Devin and tons of friends and family whose lives she touched.

Thank you to the ER & ICU staff and UHNBC, your compassion and care are appreciated. There will be a Celebration of Life in the summer of 2022.

is now an angel, resting with her angel friends.

Audrey Gilmore (nee Galger)

Audrey Gilmore (nee Galger) passed away peacefully at sunrise on Thursday, January 27th, 2022 at the age of 90. Audrey passed in Victoria, BC at her residence, the Heights at Mt. View, surrounded by her daughter, granddaughters, and amazing care family.

Audrey’s memory lives on through her daughter Krista Stafford (Richard), son Tim Gilmore (Lena), her grandchildren Sydney, Madeleine, Albert, Ronald, and Tina. Audrey was predeceased by her husband Al, who passed in 2008.

Audrey was born in Calgary, only child of Jean and Adam Galger. The family moved to Burnaby, where she met the love of her life, Al Gilmore. Al and Audrey married in 1953, then moved to Prince George with their two young children. The family spent 50+ years enjoying the cabin at Cluculz Lake, which they built together. Audrey lived most of her life in Prince George, moving to Sooke and then Victoria in her last decade.

The family would like to thanks the exceptional, caring staff at the Heights at Mt View. Special thanks go to Kristie, Sunita, Mike and Dr Emily Pai for going over and above for Audrey’s care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the SPCA, recognizing Audrey’s love of dogs. The family will hold a private celebration of life February 4, 2022, which would have been Audrey’s 91st birthday. A future larger celebration will be held at Cluculz Lake, hopefully this summer.

An interactive memorial page can be found on the island.affordablecremationandburial.ca website if you wish to share a memory of her.

MATTHEW ALEC

2x37.5

PGC002410

Napier,RobertD. October29,1936-January18,2022

Itiswithdeepsadnessthatweannouncethepassingof ourdearUncleBob.UncleBobpassedawaypeacefully andnowjoinshisbelovedwife,Florence(Lala).Heleaves behindnumerousnephewsandniecesandmanydear friends.Hewillberememberedforhisfurnaceservices, NapierHeating.Wewillmisshim,butwe’regratefulfor ourtimetogether.

LESLIE WIUM

Leslie Wium passed away peacefully at Rotary Hospice House on January 7th, 2022 at the age of 69 years. Leslie is sadly missed by his four sisters, nieces and nephews and numerous cousins. No service by request, a Celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

IRENE KRAKE

2x32.3

PGC002409

Bolin,DebbieLorna(Chevy) April11,1959-January10,2022

DebbieunexpectedlypassedawayatherhomeinElk Point,Ab.Predeceasedbyparents,EricandLorna. Survivedbyson,Landon,andbrothersArnold(Babs), Terry(Julie)andDarin(Kerry).

Celebrate the lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs and tributes

Lee Alan Patchett

May 24, 1943 - January 21, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Lee Alan Patchett announce the sudden passing of their much loved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend on January 21, 2022.

He will be deeply missed by his daughters Sherry (Trent) and Lisa. Grandchildren Jess (Taylor), Hunter, Hayden (Brianna), Jaycee, Paige and great-grandchild Ezrah. Sister Anne (Richard) and special friend Muriel. As well as many extended family members and long time friends.

Pre-deceased by the love of his life Lorna, father Roy and mother Ruth , son-in law Darryle Plato.

Dad you were our hero and will be til the end of time. You were an incredibly generous man, and in any event you were there with advice or a helping hand, which was comforting because you always knew what to do and you never said anything with judgement. Throughout your life you’ve always put others first and made people feel at ease with your sincerity, your great sense of humour and mischievous smile. You were one of a kind. We miss you so much.

“Better by far that you forget and smile then that you should remember and be sad”

“Those that touch our lives stay in our hearts forever”

May the Sunshine of Comfort Dispel the Clouds of despair

Dad requested that there not be a funeral but that his ashes be set free at his ranch in Punchaw and lay rest next to his forever love, our mom, Lorna. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Prince George Hospice House.

Because I Love You So

Time will not dim the face I love, The voice I heard each day, The many things you did for me, In your own special way. All my life I’ll miss you, As the years come and go, But in my heart I’ll keep you, Because I love you so.

Zonia

RonwasborntoMildred andLeslie Newson andwas raised in East Vancouverwhere he played American football andrugbyand graduatedin 1955 from VancouverTechnical School. Beingalifelonghardworker, he was fired from an earlyjob as hisbossrecognized hispotential to do greaterthings. His career then startedatGeneralElectric Warehousewhere he quicklyadvanced to thesales deskand soon again, to the sales department. G.E. transferredhim to Montreal for2years wherehebecame theProduct Manager, after whichhe went back to Vancouvertoser vice major applianceaccounts.

In 1964, Ron, hiswifeand daughters Darleneand Tracey, movedtoPrince George to open RonNewson’sT Vand ApplianceCentreonGeorge Street, the first in PG. In 1973 he opened RonNewsonFurniture on Victoria St and2nd, laterbecomingRon Newson Home Furnishings. From there, he had numerous businesses; includingTalisman repairs, whichsuppliedwashersand dr yers forall theapartments, andthe firstrent-to-own store in PG -Maison FurnitureRentals

Throughout hislifeand career,Ron was also agreat supportertomanyaround him. Thereare numerous stories of gratitude from thoseheguidedand helpedset up in businessfor themselves, goingasfar as providing financial support, schooling, andbusinessadvice To many,hewas atrustedfriend, mentor, father figureand dependableleader who wascounted on time andtimeagain. Many of hisfriendships were lifelong and hisrelationships went deep.

“Ser vice aboveself”.Ron believed in investinginthose around him as well as hiscommunity andwas an amazing leader helpingbuild many clubshe

“For so many to feel such fr iendship,loveand loss only to realizeweare each just a small, butsig nificant,par tofan incredible mans’legacy”

Ronald Edward Ne wson

December 15th, 1935

December 5th, 2021

belongedto. He joined Rotary in PG in 1970, wasaPaulHarrisSociety member anda benefactorofthe Rotary foundation.In2021, he wasinductedasa senatorofKamloopsWestRotar y, which is an honorreser vedfor thosewho have dedicated theirlives to Rotary.Ron and Barb travelledtoseveralinternational conferences, volunteeredat, andattended meetings at clubsall over theworld, were involved in countlessfundraisersto helpthose in need andhostednumerous exchange students that still call him Dad to this day. Rotary’s Four-waytestasks four questions: Is it thetruth?Isitfairto all concerned? Will it buildgoodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Ronexemplifiedthe four-waytest. Ronwentthrough life selflesslyhelping Thefunnythingabout inspiration,kindness, or aripple, is that we have no ideahow faritwill reachor theeffectitcould have.Hetruly hada heartlikenoother!

Ronwas also dedicated to theYMCA. He wasrecruited to theboard of thePG YMCA in the80’sand waspartofthe leadership Group(volunteersand staff ) that went about saving thePGYMCA from insolvency. He dideverythinghe knew how, to helpmakethings better andheremainedacommitted Yleader rightthrough theSeniorVolunteer ranks to Treasurer, Vice President, President andPastPresident. Part of thereason thereisstill aYinPGwas duetohis leadership.Hesubsequentlygot involved in theKamloopsYboard anddid 2terms as BoardLeader andagain played arole in salvaging andkeeping theKamloops Yalive to servethe community.Hewas on theboard when they decidedtoraffle ahome. Well knownasthe ‘Y Dream Home’, it has become aver yvaluable fundraiser nowinits 26thyear. Ron waswellliked andrespected in Ycircles acrossBCand Canada beingbotha

characterand an articulate, genuine leader.Healsoreceivedthe Outstanding Community Service awardfor contributingsignificantly to thequality of Life in theCommunity in PG in 1994.

Ronand Barb starteddatingin1987 andin1994, movedtoKamloopsand purchased their‘dream’ home on the river, wheretheyweremarried in 1995. As always, thedream required alot of hard work anddedication. Together they createdapiece of paradise andanopendoor home that has hostedhundredsof gatherings andpeoplefromaroundthe world. They continuedtheir love of travel andmade friends wherever they went.It wasnothingtoarrive home andshortly thereafter takeoff to stay in another countr ywithnew friends they hadmade or vice versa. Don’ttalk to strangers wasnot hismotto…he’dinvitethemto come stay in hishome! Trulypillarsof thecommunity,theyspent much time volunteering andfundraising, giving how andwherevertheycould. They continued to travel foraslongaspossible, spending time each year in Maui,Borrego Springs, andwhicheverlarge trip they could make.Itwasn’tunheard of forthemtobe workingasoup kitchen in Maui

Ron’spassions also includedgolf, his vehicle collection,socializing, tellinga good stor yorjokeand making people laugh. He hadaway of laughingthe hardestathimself andhis energy was contagious.Hecould always gettothe heartofwhomeverhemet. Their home wascommonlyreferredtoas‘ TheZoo’ forhis love of animalsmeant constantly gettingmore…dogs, cats,rabbits, fish.A good dog bookcould break hisheart and we trulyconsidered sendinghim off with apocketfull of dog treats

He wasthe appleofhis kids and grandchildren’s eye. Spendingtimeatthe

lake with both hisfamilies andalways theretosupport andguide andinstill a strong work ethic. He willbemissedmore than wordscan explain. Ronissur vived by Barb(wife), stepdaughterDana (Shane)&grandsonLogan,stepson Curt (Taira) &grandchildren Meila&Griffin; daughter Darlene(Stan)&granddaughter Alyssa (Ryan); daughter Tracey (Conrad) &grandchildren; Carisa (Andy); Miranda(Kirk); Chaseand Cole,as well as great-grandchildren: Eli, Raidan, Salem, Anisha,Cypress,Shaylin, Sasha &Seth; brotherRay (Bernice) as well as numerous nephewsand nieces.

Ronwas welcomedhomebyhis oldest grandson Garrettand is surrounded by hisPet Sanctuar y. Days later, they welcomednephewDoug.

Ourfamilywould like to thankeveryone whosupported us in Ron’stimeofneed; hisfriends that continuedtotakehim on weekly outings (you know whoyou are): RIH; PonderosaLodge as well as friends fortheir cards, flowers, food,and hugs.

If youwereRon’s friend,you were likely hisfamilyand he wasaman wholoved hisfamilydearly, whotookcareofothers, andwho triedtoleave theworld abetter place than when he enteredit. Hiswish wasgranted as he passed away at home in hissleep

Ronalwayswantedto“Buy thelastdrink” so aser vice willbepostponed until he/we cansafelydoso. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating yourtimeormoney to your localfoodbankorSPCA.

“Eachjourney begins with onestep. Each friendship begins with onehandshake” “May thehingesoffriendship neverrust”

REMEMBRANCES

It is withprofound sadnessthatwesay goodbye to our belovedAmanda Amandadiedtragically as aresult of askiing accident at Whitewater SkiResortnear Nelson. Theon-hill staff and theemergency and hospital medical teamsin Nelson dideverythingpossible to save her,but her injuriesweretoo severetoovercome.Her lastactivity wasdoingsomethingthatshe loved.

Familymeant so much to Amanda.She was predeceased by herpaternalgrandparents(Johnand PhyllisAsay) hermaternal grandparents (Raymond andDorothyRussell) and infantcousinChad Asay. She is survived by her parents, Lorisand George Asay, brotherand sister-in-lawBradAsay(Amanda Lacerda), Uncles and aunts,Doug (Joy)Asay, Burt(Shirley-Ann) Asay,and DianeRussell, cousins Doug Asay Jr.(Kim), Dayna (Rick)Eberhardt,Kara(Pat) Aylard, Todd Asay, Burke Asay, Amandaisalsosurvivedbycountless friendsand teammatesfromall over the world. This is such atragic and unexpectedloss. As someonesaid –she didnot liveafulllife, but thelifeshe led wasfull. Shewas full of lifeand our lives will not ever be thesamewithout her

Amanda(also knownasBarb, Ace, Bear,and Nelrak) wasbornand raised in Prince George,B.C..She attended College Heights ElementarySchooland then College Heights SecondarySchool.She received a 4-year academic scholarship to BrownUniversity.She played hockey for3years and softball for4years for the BrownBears.She received aBScdegreeinHuman Biology. She went on to theUniversity of British Columbia in Vancouver whereshe obtaineda Master of Scienceand then aPhD.inForestry(becoming “Dr.Barb”). She worked under Dr.Suzanne Simard (her Supervisor andAdvisor) on the“Mother Tree”, “IntelligentTrees”, andotherprojects.Suzanne was

ASAY, Amanda Karlene

May16, 1988 -January7,2022

so supportiveand encouraging of Amanda in every way. She helped her developapassion fortrees and allowedher to continue heramazingathleticcareer in baseball andhockey.Amanda’s researchwas focused on kinselectionintrees andtheir communicationin undergroundmycorrhizal fungal networks.

Amanda recently movedtoNelson, B.C. andshe worked alongside DebMacKillop(aResearch Ecologist)onaproposal. Shedid some work with her friend Nicole Luchanski (who is also aForester). She thenbegan workingfor the MinistryofForests as aSilvicultural Systems ResearcherinMay of 2019. Using her woodworking skills, sheloved renovating her 100-year old house.She enjoyedplanting a vegetable garden, growing flowers,and workingin theyard. She lovedthe Nelson community withits fabulous outdoor recreational opportunities.She had awonderfulroommate (KathSurbey –a former

SHORTREID

1939 ~ 2021

Rosemar y Shor treid passed away on December 03, 2021 in Victoria, B.C., at 82 years of age. She survived by his son John (Audrey) Shor treid, daughter Bonnie (Michael) Shortreid; grandchildren Mallory (Katy) Kr yklywyj, Br yan Perreault, Heather Lees; brother Morgan (Breda) Madden and sisters Breda Madden and Nuala (Tony) Kennedy in Ireland

Rosemar y was born August 30, 1939 at Montenotte Park, Cork, Ireland to Daniel and Hannah Madden. Fifth of six surviving children, Rosemar y adventures began at age 28 traveling to Canada as member of Frontier Apostle’s to Canada While on a road trip from Prince George to Smithers BC, she met her future husband David where they eventually married in Smithers BC. Remaining true to her Irish Catholic roots, she became a member of the Smithers CWL regularly involved with cooking and baking events and stayed dedicated to wearing green on St. Patricks’ day. High energy and memorable laughter kept Rosemar y busy and socially active. Due to the changing health of her husband, Rosemary moved to Kamloops retired for about 15 years, then moved again with husband to Victoria in 2015 which brought her closer to her children. Rosemar y’s adventures included may road-trips, camping in BC, trips back to Ireland in addition to ocean cruising with David when possible Liked by many – she will be missed. A celebration of life event for Rosemar y will be held between 1:00 and 3:00 PM on Friday July 15, 2022 at Masons Kitchen & Bar 1000 Clubhouse Drive, Kamloops, BC. Please RSVP to drshor treid@shaw.ca to give notice to the family of your pending attendance.

hockey teammate from BrownUniversity), and she hadalready becomea valuable contributor to several groups (hockey with 3teams and coaching ayoung baseball team forexample).

Amandaloved both winterand summer sports of all kinds. Herloveofsportsincludedhockey,ringette, snowboarding,downhill and X-countryskiing, snowshoeing,swimming,paddle boarding,kayaking, golf, andsnorkeling.She played both NCAA and CIS College hockeyand NCAA softball. Shewas also a regularfor the Canadian Women’sNationalbaseball team earning 5world cup medalsand aPan Am silver. She wasalwaysupfor an adventure. She was passionate about nature, lovedtocampand hike and enjoyedthe wilderness.She lovedgames,paint-bynumbers,and puzzlesand she wasawizard at all of them.

Therewill be amemorialfor Amanda in PrinceGeorge Friday,February11th,2:00pm, at Assman’sFuneral Chapel.Unfortunately duetothe Covid restrictions, numbers arelimited at the service. Also,weare unable to have areceptionunder the newguidelines.Ifyou plan on attending,couldyou please notify afamily membersoweare able to comply.All attendeesmust be double vaccinated. Alivestreamed video of the servicewill be available forthose unable to attend When restrictions areliftedcelebrations ofAmanda’s lifewill take placeinNelson and Prince George Plans arebeing made to establisha scholarship fundinAmanda’s name to promote the growth and development of femalesports andathletes.Her utterly amazing legacywill liveoninthe memories of all whoknewand lovedher

Rest in peaceAmandaBear!

To leavea messageofcondolence forthe family,please visit www.thompsonfs.ca/obituary/amanda-asay/

KARIN BROESSLER 1944-2022

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend Karin Broessler. Karin is survived by her husband Franz, her sons Peter (Debbie), Mike and Dean (Joanne), grandchildren Stephanie (Adam), Michael, Nicholas, Emily (Linus), Amy, Connor, Tyler and Annika, her great grandchildren Ella and Addisyn. Karin was born in Germany where she spent her early years and met her husband Franz. In 1967, Franz moved

Karin and their young boys, Peter and Michael to Prince George. Two years after settling in the community, their youngest son Dean was born. Prince George soon became her home and she resided here until her passing.

She had a variety of passions which included gardening, cooking, sewing, baking and knitting.

Her family and close friends benefited from her incredible passion for baking and cooking; from her fabulous Christmas cookies to her amazing tortes she would bake for birthdays.

Her family is going to greatly miss her wisdom and her never ending loving advice.

Mom/Omi, even though you are not here physically, you are far from gone. Your presence will continue to light the way for everyone who was fortunate enough to know you. Thank you for waking up each day and choosing to lead with love.

Our family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the incredibly compassionate palliative team at the Prince George Hospice House. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Prince George Hospice Society.

EVAN McLAY

Itiswitht is with

insurmountable anguish and despair that Iannounce the untimely and tragic passing of my partner and our boy’s father,a son, brother and friend, Evan Daniel McLay (age 36), on November 5, 2021.

We choose to remember the good times with Evan, as afather who, “Lovedhis critters”Finnigan Forrest (6) and Lachlann Gunnar (3). Most often you’d find him outside with the family: camping at Azouzetta Lake, teaching the boys to fish and ski, mudding at the power lines in the side by side, or chopping wood and adding gasoline to have massivebonfires in the backyard.

Evan grew up in the Prince George and Mackenzie areas before branching out as an adult. In high-school Evanwas drawnto drafting and began work shortly after as a surveyorinFort Saint John and Vancouver before joining the CanadianArmed Forces with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Shilo, Manitoba.After his military service, Evan returned to hishome town, PG, and studied power engineering at the College of New Caledonia. Later,heworked as amachine operator in, shipping, landscaping and snow removal industries. And at the time of his death he was considering startinghis own business: Veteran Landscapes. He always did takesuch pride in having the best fence and greenest lawn on the block!

After Evan’s honourable discharge from the Canadian Forces in 2012, he returned to PG and met Kate who had just movedupfrom Vancouver,and theyfell in love.Hewas her knight in shining armour andshe his lady.In the manyhappyyears that followed the couple were blessed by two little princes: Finnigan Forrest (2015) and Lachlann Gunnar (2018)

Becoming afather was the greatest joyof Evan’s life. He often recalled high giving the doctor with tears in his eyes. He lovedbeing a stayathome Dad when the boys were young; and we are so thankful for the time we had with him. Our sons’ fondestmemories are of water balloon and snowball fights, jumping on

the trampoline, hot tubs, fireworks, quadding, camping, bonfires, tubing and fishing.

“When Dad picked me up from school in the side side,”said Finn and when “Daddy sleep with us,”said Lachlann.

Ev was the type of person to giveyou the shirt off of his back. He was profoundly generous, and would givehis time and energy to help anyone who needed ahelping hand. He gave back so selflessly because he himself struggled from ayoung age with love and acceptance, substance abuse and mental health. Underneath it all, he just wanted to do andbebetter.

His thoughtfulness and generosity will always be remembered and appreciated by his family, friends, the animals down at the SPCA and the people at Saint Vincent De Paul Society.Where he often volunteered his time sponsoring animals and feeding the homeless.

Evan leavesbehind his widow,Kate, and young sons Finnigan (6) and Lachlann (3); his parents, John and Shirley, brother Joel (Sandy) and sister Mary (Jono). Evan is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, GG Jacquie and his loyal lab Sophie, who was by his side for nine years.

“Welove youtothe moon and back, deeper than the ocean, and we willmiss youmore than all the stars in the sky and fish in the sea.”-Kate

Due to Covid 19 restrictions there will be no service at this time. But, we encourage youto: get dressed in your plaid, sweats and flip flops, grab aTim’s (black with 2espresso), abox of fireworks, blast some “Old Town Road” and head to the river to saygoodbye.You’ll find Evan there.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to reach out and share memories or sendphotos. Asaving account has also been set up to benefitthe family during this difficult time. Donations to this fund can be made through an e-transfer to: katraames@gmail.com.

The Prince George Citizen is looking for a freelance photographer. Interested candidates please email lsmith@glaciermedia.ca along with some samples of your best photos.

Accounting &Payroll

Management/Administration

Timber Service Ltd, Quesnel, BC

ACCO UNTANT

Timber Service is a local values-based logging company where each of us plays an impor tant role in contributing to the success of our business.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Accountant is responsible for financial procedures and systems; including financial repor ting and analysis Under the direction of the General Manager The Accountant will suppor t the business in the preparation of monthly financial statements, the annual budget, and ensuring proper financial controls are adhered to

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The ideal candidate will be work ing towards a CPA designation or a combination of experience and education.

• Must have work ing knowledge and can per form key accounting functions; accounts payable, payroll, financial repor ting and statistical repor ting

• Strong organizational, analytical, interpersonal and time management sk ills

• Proficient in Microsoft O ffice applications

• Experience in the forest industr y and SAGE software will be considered an asset

APPLY TODAY! If you are interested in exploring this oppor tunity and being a par t of our community, please submit your resume to admin@timberser vice.ca or 1720 Brownmiller Road, Quesnel BC V2J 0C5. Applications will be accepted until Februar y 15, 2022

Hampton Lumber Canadian Operations

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Fort St. James Forest Products, a division of Hampton Lumber Mills, has a challenging opportunity for an innovative and highly motivated individual as a

TEMPORARY SITE WATCHPERSON & LEVEL 3 FIRST AID ATTENDANT

As a member of the team, based out of Fort St. James, BC, you will be responsible for onsite First Aid and Watchperson

Key responsibilities and duties will include:

• Level 3 First Aid Attendant

• Watchperson duties

• Perform all duties in a safe, courteous manner with attention to details.

The ideal candidate is a teamoriented individual with the following qualifications:

• Current Level 3 First Aid certificate

• Valid class 5 driver’s licence

• Has attention to detail and knowledge of Microsoft Office suite

Hampton Lumber Mills provides a competitive salary with full benefits. Qualified applicants should Email their resumes to #HRCanada@Hamptonlumber com prior to 4:00pm January 27th, 2022

We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

An Opportunity is here for you.

Full Time Account Manager, Lending Prince George Branch’s

At Interior Savings (formally Spruce Credit Union), it ’s our job to be there with the right financial suppor t to help our members succeed That ’s local money for local good!

It ’s also our job to give back in our communities As a member of the Interior Savings team, you have the oppor tunity to suppor t your local economy, local causes, local events and initiatives, and to help create positive change.

If you would like to be par t of a team that makes a positive difference in people’s lives, check out this great oppor tunity. 2 positions currently available.

As an Account Manager, Lending you are a key contributor to our financial success. You ac tively grow the business and lead initiatives such as campaigns, seminars, and network ing with ex ternal centers of influence.

If you have excellent communication and customer ser vice sk ills, in addition to 4-6 years of job -related experience in a financial sales and ser vice environment then we encourage you to come join our team.

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

We thank all applicants for their interest and will contact shor t-listed candidates only

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

Temporary par ttime (28 hours/week) position until June 7th, 2023 •Star tDate: ASAP

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

This is apermanent32hours/week position. StartDate: ASAP

LocatedinBulkley Valley,Houston, Hazelton

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

Mills/Equipment

BUYING OLD JEWELRY Gold, Silver & costume jewelry! Charm bracelets, rings, chains, necklaces, pocket watch chains, watches, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches, coins, all old jewelry WANTED, QUALITY, ESTATE, EVEN UGLY & BROKEN JEWELRY, ALL THE BITS AND PIECES YOU NO LONGER WANT! CALL OR TEXT Todd’s Coins 1-250-864-3521

Frontier Traders 168 Front St, Quesnel, BC (250) 983-2294

Sheds/Outbuildings

MERCHANDISE

Will purchase estate items; antler mounts, bear rugs, live mounts, hides.

WANTED

Health Care AssistantDiploma

Houses for Sale

Legal/Public Notices

Almas Farms has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten year period from 2022 to 2032 for WL1180. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule B Lands SE of West Lake

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days Written comments should be received by Mar 4, 2022. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

250-562-6666 princegeorgecitizen.adperfect.com cls@pgcitizen.ca

Parker, RPF SBS Forestry Inc. 1541 Ogilvie St Prince George, B.C. V2N 1W7 Ph

to medium business, Personal Income Taxes,Wills, Living Wills, POA, and other business services upon request. 250-561-0415 carol-ann@oldgals.ca

HOMES

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

DESIGN TRENDS • HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS • OUTDOOR LIVING

An aspiring homeowner’s guide to real estate terms

If you’re looking to buy your first home, you might feel a little overwhelmed by all the real estate lingo being thrown your way. Here’s a short glossary of some common terms to get you started.

Amortization: The process of gradually paying off your mortgage with regular payments.

Appraisal: The process of determining how much a property is worth, typically used by a lender to decide how big your loan should be.

Comparables: A list of recently sold properties in the area that can be used to determine the market value of a similar property, also known as comps

Contingency clause: A condition or action that must be met in order for a purchase offer to become binding

Deed: A legal document that states the official owner of a property, also called a transfer.

Equity: The percentage of a property’s value owned by the homeowner (its market value minus the amount still owed on it).

Foreclosure: A legal process that allows a lender to recover money owed on a defaulted loan by taking ownership of the property and selling it.

In escrow: A period of time after a buyer makes an offer and the seller accepts during which the property is transferred to a third party until the transaction is complete.

Lien: A legal claim to a property if the owner defaults on mortgage payments or has unpaid tax debt

Maturity date: The last day of a mortgage term, at which time the loan must be repaid in full or a new agreement must be reached

Principal: The amount borrowed from a lending institution. In mortgage payments, this doesn’t include interest.

Features to ignore when house hunting

If you’re perusing listings online or visiting a property in person, there are a lot of red flags to watch out for. However, there are also several features that shouldn’t affect your decision to make an offer on a home

PAINT COLOURS AND WALLPAPER

Painting a home is easy and affordable, even if you need to remove a bit of wallpaper first. In fact, you shouldn’t let any of the seller’s questionable decor choices distract you from seeing the potential of each room.

CARPETS AND POPCORN CEILINGS

With so many attractive low-cost flooring options, there’s no need to be dissuaded by

ugly carpets. Similarly, an expert can take out a popcorn ceiling in no time For the sake of convenience, just be sure to have both removed before you move in.

PRIVACY AND CURB APPEAL

Don’t be discouraged if you’re not wowed when you first see a property Landscaping the yard and repainting the front door can make a big difference. And you can always add hedges as fencing for more privacy.

Finally, don’t judge a home by its age In many cases, an older property will have higher quality materials not to mention more charm and character than a new build.

Title insurance: A policy that protects a homeowner against challenges of ownership to a property or other problems related to the title of a home.

Remember, a real estate agent can be an invaluable ally when it comes to navigating the language and processes of buying a home.

SNOW REMOVAL:

GO FOR GOLD.

How to maintain your home’s curb appeal in winter

Do you want to put your house on the market this winter? If so, you’ll need to make sure the cold, dreary weather doesn’t detract from your property’s curb appeal Here’s how to give potential buyers a great first impression.

• Paint your front door. This is a simple way to make your home stand out A bold colour like blue, red or yellow is sure to pop against a snowy landscape

• Update your number and mailbox. Replace peeling sticker numbers and a rusty mailbox with quality pieces that match the style of your home’s exterior.

• Spruce up your outdoor lighting. Since the days are short in winter, illuminating your home should be a top priority. The warm glow of light from wall sconces or a porch chandelier will improve your home’s appearance and visibility.

• Addcolourtoyouryard. Plant evergreens, frost-

4 expenses homeowners pay that renters don’t

resistant flowers and shrubs with colourful stems and berries to liven up your winter landscaping and make your property more inviting.

• Clear a path to the door. You’ll want to ensure your property is safe for buyers to visit. Remember to keep surfaces free of snow and ice, especially before an open house.

For more expert tips on selling your home in winter, consult a local real estate agent.

Do you want to become a homeowner? While there are many benefits to owning property, there are also numerous costs In addition to the price of the home, here are just some of the expenses you’ll need to factor into your budget

1. PROPERTY TAXES

If you own a house or condominium, you’re responsible for paying taxes to your local government to fund services such as garbage collection, road maintenance, policing and more.

2. HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE

Although tenants typically pay for renter’s insurance, it’s important to be aware that homeowner’s insurance is a lot more expensive. This is largely due to the fact that if you own the property, you need to insure the actual structure of the home, not just its contents

3. MORTGAGE INTEREST

This is an expense you’ll have to pay for the duration of your mortgage The amount required will depend on the time over which your mortgage is amor-

tized, the frequency of your payments and the rate and type of interest

4. MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS Gone are the days of simply calling the landlord if an appliance stops working or there’s no hot water From simple electrical repairs to replacing the roof or flood-proofing the basement, all home maintenance tasks are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Before you decide to buy a home, it’s a good idea to consult a financial adviser to ensure you’re making the right choice based on your needs and circumstances.

Kaycie

Janine

Donna Badowski***