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Owners recall stories of haunted restaurant

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Photos on the wall were found askew every morning, people felt like they were being watched, open doors were found closed and footfalls could be heard when nobody else was there.

The phone jangled and a vintage radio would play. There was even a sighting of a greyish ghostly image strolling from one room to another.

City crime rate up

ARTHUR WILLIAMS Citizen staff

Prince George had nearly double the crime rate and Prince George RCMP officers are handling roughly 50 per cent heavier caseloads than police officers in similar-sized B.C. communities, according to a report to city council Monday.

Prince George RCMP generated 50,182 case files in 2021, up 6.93 per cent from 2020, Supt. Shaun Wright said. In addition to providing local statistics, he provided a comparison between Prince George and three similar-sized B.C. communities: Kelowna, Kamloops and Nanaimo.

“(This) gives you an idea of what we’re dealing with here. Prince George has the lowest population… and is the highest in Criminal Code offences,” Wright said. “You can see by our case load per member, we’re really stretched…”

Drawing on 2020 crime data reported in September 2021 by the B.C. Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Prince George’s crime rate was 209.1 Criminal Code of Canada offences per 1,000 population – compared with 111 in Nanaimo, 114 in Kelowna and 116 per 1,000 people in Kamloops. The provincial average crime rate is 76 offences per 1,000 population.

Police officers in Nanaimo, Kelowna and Kamloops carried an average caseload of 76 to 82 cases, compared to 121 in Prince George. On average across both municipal police forces and RCMP forces in the province, the average caseload per officer in the province is 53, Wright wrote in his report.

The Crime Severity Index, a weighted crime rate developed by Statistics Canada, for Prince George in 2020 was 223, compared to 130 in Kelowna, 123 in Kamloops and 112 in Nanaimo.

Statistics Canada has a complex formula for calculating the index, so that it

“gives a better idea of what is happening on the ground,” Wright said.

A shoplifting and a homicide are both a single Criminal Code of Canada offence, but they are not equal in seriousness or in the amount of police resources to investigate them.

“We’re about 80 per cent higher than our comparator communities,” he said.

The number of case files in the city has been trending upward over the past four years – 44,118 in 2018, 48,022 in 2019, 46,927 in 2020 and 50,182 in 2021, according to the report.

Calls for service have been increasing steadily in the downtown area, Wright added. In 2018, the RCMP received 5,623 calls for service downtown. By 2021, that had increased to 7,691.

“Encampment was a big issue this year. It occupied a significant amount of our downtown resources,” Wright said.

Most of the crime downtown is minor, he said - mischief, causing a disturbance, suspicious people and being intoxicated in a public place were the most common.

The RCMP is increasingly being asked to take on jobs outside of their core policing responsibility, Wright said, something he and his leadership team are looking to address this year.

“We don’t need to be doing the job of other agencies. We become the default social service after 4 p.m., and after Friday until Monday,” he said. “Over the years, because we’re the 24-hour service, we’ve acquiesced and taken these things on. We don’t have time to be doing other people’s work, we barely have time to do our own.”

CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO

Wilf and Rosel Vogt are seen here in their home after a chat about the ghost that haunted Rosel’s Restaurant in downtown Prince George.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE

MAKE ADIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

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

Tourism Prince George Society BoardofDirectors– One (1) Vacancy

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

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

Advisory Committee on Accessibility –Five (5) Vacancies

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

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

Advisory Committee on Development Design -Four (4) Vacancies

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

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

•Registered professional planner;

•Landscape professional;

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

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

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

•Appointed representative from the Canadian Homebuilders Association of NorthernBCorthe BC NorthernReal Estate Board;

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

•Public at Large.

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

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

How to Apply

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

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

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

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

‘We got so used to it’

Continued from page 1

The closest encounter was a literal brush with the ghost that was so very chilling.

Those are the ghosts stories told by Rosel and Wilf Vogt, owners of Rosel’s restaurant that sat at 1624 Seventh Avenue, now called The Heritage House, back in the 1980s and 90s.

“I would find the photos of our grandparents and other family members so messed up I would think there had been an earthquake overnight,” Rosel recalled. “That went on for months and months but we got so used to it we just straightened them out every morning.”

After hours, Wilf would go to work down in the basement office and sometimes things went bump in the night.

“Everything would be locked up and then all of a sudden you would hear somebody walking around upstairs,” Wilf recalled. “We would think we left the door unlocked and someone had walked in but there was never anyone up there.”

One night, Wilf and Rosel were both down in the office and the footfalls sounded like a pack of people had broken into the restaurant. There were several occasions over the years people had

indeed broken in to steal the liquor at the bar in the restaurant and at the time it seemed like a real threat.

“So Wilf grabbed something and I grabbed a broom and we stormed up the stairs as quietly as we could ready to smack somebody and nothing,” Rosel said. “The door was locked.”

Wilf recalled one afternoon the phone started jangling and an old radio that wasn’t plugged in started to play.

And what happens to your heart when something like that happens?

“Nothing,” Rosel said. “We got used to it. And if you left a door open, it would be closed the next time you passed by.”

There was never any feeling of dread that came with all the unusual occurrences.

“We never got a bad feeling,” Wilf said. “It was just entertainment after a while.”

Like most people, both Rosel and Wilf didn’t even consider ghosts to be a real thing before their close encounter.

“We never even gave it a thought,” Rosel said. “But how can you not believe after going through something like that?”

These images are on display at Rosel and Wilf Vogt’s home to commemorate their time at Rosel’s Restaurant.

Residents step up for local teen after tragedy

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

A young life filled with loss has gotten a bit of a bright light shone on it during some dark days recently, thanks to the generous support provided by the Prince George community.

Randy lost his parents at a young age and was put in foster care when he was just six years old.

Angela Higham, a local resident, always wanted to be a mom.

She and Randy found each other when he was eight years old and Angela adopted Randy.

Angela enjoyed raising Randy as her own for a time but unfortunately fate had other plans.

After taking a fall at home on Monday, Jan. 24, family members took Angela to the emergency room at UHNBC.

There doctors gave the family terrible news.

Angela, 48, had an aggressive form of ovarian cancer. She was terminal and only had weeks to live.

The next day, the doctors got further results from tests and came back to the family saying Angela only had days to live.

Angela went to the Prince George Hospice House on Tuesday, Jan. 25.

Randy turned 14 years old on

Thursday, Jan. 27 and then said good-bye to Angela the next when she passed away on Friday, Jan. 28.

Angela and Randy had six short but lovely years together, said Angela’s older sister, Pam Corrin.

Corrin said Randy is a really quiet

Victim services volunteers needed

The Prince George RCMP Victim Services Unit is seeking volunteers to help support people who have been victims of crimes and tragedy.

Victim Services volunteers accompany RCMP officers to provide support to the survivors and loved ones of serious offences like murders, assaults, sexual assaults and other incidents including fatal crashes and suicides.

Volunteers need to be committed to working an office shift each week, and

two 12-hour on-call shifts a month, along with monthly meetings and training.

Volunteers must be 19 years old or older, have a valid Class 5 driver’s license and he able to obtain an RCMP Enhanced Reliability Security Clearance.

People interested in volunteering can pick up an application package at the Community Policing Office located at 455 Victoria St.

For more information, please call 250-561-3329.

teenager.

“Randy is quite reserved, loves video games and especially loves his dog, Bear,” Corrin said.

“Randy is living with my parents. They will be his guardians.”

A friend and co-worker of Angela, Kayci

It’s just been amazing, the outpouring from the community.”

Gibbs, started a GoFundMe fundraiser for Randy to help secure his future.

“I thought that was so very kind of Kayci and I didn’t realize it would become such a large thing,” Corrin said.

“It’s just been amazing - the outpouring from the community,” Corrin said.

“And it’s not even about the money. It’s not even that. It’s the messages that are coming in from the GoFundMe page that are warming my mother’s heart. The messages - even from total strangers - that are saying their thoughts and prayers are with us and offering encouraging words for Randy and my mom and dad and my family - yeah, it’s just amazing how supportive this community is.”

The funds raised are earmarked for Randy’s future, including his post-secondary education, Corrin added.

“The amount is very large right now ($11,380 at press time) so we’re hoping to set up a scholarship in my sister’s name for a child in foster care who is going on to post-secondary school,” Corrin said.

Angela Higham, who recently passed away, left behind her beloved adopted son, Randy. The community is getting behind Randy to secure his future.

Feedback on BCUC’s Retail PilotDraft Report

TheBritish Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) has issued itsDraft Report summarizingthe resultsof aRetailPilot projectthatwas conductedunder the Fuel Price Transparency Act.FromNovember 2020 to November2021, theBCUCcollected data from agroup of retail dealersacrossBritishColumbia, as requiredbythe BC government’s SpecialDirection

TheDraft Report provides draft recommendationstothe BC government on what retail fuel data should be collectedunder theFPT Act, whoshouldhave to report retail fuel data, andhow frequently retail data should be reported.

British Columbians areinvited to provide theirfeedbackand comments on theDraft Report by submitting aLetter of Commenttothe BCUC by Monday,February 28,2022. BCUC Staﬀ arealso hosting online workshopstoprovide more information aboutthe Draft Report,answeryourquestions, and seek feedback.The workshopsare open to thepublic,registration is required.

HOWTOPARTICIPATE

Submit aletter of comment on bcuc.com,visit https://www.bcuc.com/Forms/LetterOfComment

*Attenda Workshop to register, email Commission.Secretary@bcuc.com

KEYDATES

February14, 2022, 3pm(PST) –Workshop #1

February 15, 2022, 2:30pm (PST) –Workshop#2

February 23, 2022, 1pm(PST) –Workshop #3

February 28, 2022 –Deadlinetosubmit aletter of comment

If you would like more information aboutthe draft report or howtoget involved, pleasevisit www.gaspricesbc.ca/RetailPilot.*Please note,workshops maybecancelled if thereare no registrants.

Friends, family mourn ‘Andrea Everything’

TED CLARKE Citizen staff

To her friends in the Nechako Rotary club, Andrea Johnson was “Andrea Everything.”

Missingyour DAILYpaper?

She could never say no and was always willing to contribute to whatever cause the local service club was taking on. In her work over the past six years as a communications officer at UNBC, her 15 years writing for newspapers, or her volunteer work with the Rotary clubs in Prince George and Quesnel, Johnson went beyond the call of duty to latch on to virtually any project she thought would improve the lives of the people around her.

“Andrea was one of our professional volunteers, she volunteered for everything to do with Rotary, she had a big heart and it was all about providing opportunity and service to people within our community,” said Nechako Rotary executive member Ken Pendergast, who was shocked to learn that Johnson had died at age 50 last week in her Prince George home.

as a newspaper sports reporter. I got to know Andrea in January 2014 when the Prince George Citizen hired her to join our sports department and despite her love for the Edmonton Oilers and mine for the Calgary Flames, we immediately shared a bond, maybe because we were both transplanted Albertans.

Andrea was raised on a grain/cattle farm near Consort. Her Grade 2 teacher, Audrey Lang, was the mother of Consort’s singer-songwriter k.d. lang, and the families knew each other well. Andrea was a huge Garth Brooks fan and shared her soon-to-be-famous neighbour’s love for country music.

Operation Red Nose was near and dear to Johnson’s heart and every year her friends knew better than to invite her to any social function that happened on weekend nights in December. She managed media relations for the program, trained volunteers and organized the service to provide free rides to impaired drivers. On busy nights, she joined the road crews and would be there to take over the keys and drive people home.

“She was really a shining light for our club,” said Nechako Rotary president Kathy Carlson. “She wore so many hats.”

Johnson loved the outdoors and lived for sports as an avid runner, hiker, kayaker and cross-country skier and especially enjoyed watching curling, rodeo, CFL football, hockey and tennis, as a Roger Federer fan.

Sports were her passion and she combined that love with her career path

Her first newspaper job was at the Mountain News in Rocky Mountain House and she worked there until 2000, when she came to B.C. to work in White Rock with the Peace Arch News. In 2006, she became the editor of the Quesnel Observer and held that position until 2009, when she moved to Prince George to work in the communications department at the College of New Caledonia. She was at CNC until she was hired by the Citizen in January 2014.

Matt Wood, UNBC’s director of communications and marketing, first got to know her when he worked for the city of Quesnel and she was at the Observer and they’ve been friends for 15 years. Wood said she was quick to adapt and expand her skill set, using video and social media platforms to better utilize her writing talents to connect with the university world.

“She had a work ethic that was second to none, a get-it-done type attitude. She also understood that people bring different things to a project and recognized when to step back and let others lead in their area of expertise and not be afraid to speak up and share her expertise when it came around,” he said.

The family is planning to have a memorial service at a date yet to be determined. Donations in her honour can be made to the Rotary Foundation.

Flags at UNBC were lowered to half-mast Monday to pay tribute to Andrea Johnson, a communications officer and devoted local volunteer, who died suddenly last week.

ANDREA JOHNSON

Metal artist exploring upcycling options

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Making something from scraps that’s pleasing to the eye inspired some serious upcycling for local metal artist Mike Hochachka.

An old muffler is now a dog, pieces of a 100-year-old piano helped create tails and many other aspects of craftily created creatures, old shovels are now turtles, coil bed springs from a burned out mattress found in the bush are now the eyes of rock owls, there’s metal cactus in buckets and the prickles are barbed wire to keep things real, old file cabinets provide lots of material and there’s what’s left of a load of sheet metal with which he creates silhouettes of birds, squirrels and other friendly, fantastical creatures. There’s a gnome built to sit on the top of a door frame and there’s a cat head, too. It looks like he’s sneaking a peek at you. So cute.

There’s even a cow with a vintage milk bottle as her body with the holder of an oxygen tank wrapped around her torso.

And those old hand saws you see rusted out at every garage sale in town?

The blades are free-hand plasma-cut into trees. Fantastic.

Hochachka is a jack-of-all trades and does woodwork, electrical, mechanicswhatever it takes to get things done, he said.

Mike Hochachka, a Prince George metal artist, upcycles everything to create his many unique pieces of art.

In the recent past, he’s created a pulldown boat rack on his truck for his kayak and a greenhouse using whatever he had on hand.

“I call it recycling,” Hochachka said. He even gets the grandkids involved as they go on their camping trips as a family and explorations into the bush result in

heavy metal finds, he added.

He only started the metal art a year ago.

“I always wanted to do cut metal work and I started doing it all by hand with a jigsaw and it was so time consuming,” Hochachka said.

That’s when he decided to get his ‘cheapy’ plasma cutter. So much easier,

he added.

His springtime project is creating knives with a tiny little forge he just managed to procure the other day.

Long ago, when he and his wife Connie used to be part of the Society of Creative Anachronism where a community of like-minded people would gather as if in medieval times to live and battle it out for a weekend, he had his sheet metal to create armour he used as a heavy fighter during battle and would forge knives he would sell to fellow society members. He’s revisiting the knife creations and will add them to the items offered when he hits the spring markets.

“To test it out I just twisted a railway spike and turned it into a bottle opener,” Hochachka said.

He also takes requests for commissioned pieces.

Hochachka and Connie have volunteered with the Buckhorn volunteer fire department for more than 30 years and he is now the deputy chief while Connie is lieutenant.

“There’s so much that I want to do yet but between work, the grandkids and the fire department... “ Hochachka said, who grew up right here. “It’s a lot of fun to come up with all these things.”

Feel free to connect with Hochachka on his Facebook page or send him an email at Happycamperstudio21@gmail.com.

CITIZEN STAFF PHOTO

Dance, magic show set

Celtic Illusion, a modern Irish dance and magic show, is beginning a North American tour in 2022 and stopping in Prince George.

The stage show is created by, choreographed by and stars Anthony Street from Lord of the Dance.

The show fuses contemporary Irish dance with magic and illusions.

The stage performance features a cast of champion and internationally acclaimed dances, including performers from both Riverdance and Lord of the Dance.

Displaying some of the fastest taps in

the world, the dancers’ rhythm fills the stage in perfect unison.

Street is also the the first Australian to perform leading roles in Michael Flatley’s widely-acclaimed Lord of the Dance, including the very role that Michael Flatley originally performed himself.

Since its premiere in 2011, Celtic Illusion has played to sold-out audiences all across Australia and recently completely a soldout tour in Canada.

Celtic Illusion comes to CN Centre for one night only on Saturday, April 2. Tickets on sale at ticketsnorth.ca

Downtown coﬀee bar featured in movie

Laura Mitchell, writer/director of the movie filming locally, made a point of using locales unique to Prince George.

Some scenes of Meeting Mr. Christmas will be shot at The Makerie, a craft and coffee bar, located downtown, where people are encouraged to let their creativity take over in a covid-friendly space.

Owner Kim Hayhurst said she couldn’t be more excited about seeing her small business showcased in the movie.

“They came in to scout out the location and they just keep coming back,” Hayhurst said. “We’re really excited because they’re not just using us as a backdrop but they’re showcasing what we do, which is neat. Our coffee bar is converted into Sam’s Bakery and then the scene involves a kind of charity event and there are kids actually crafting here so everything that we do here in the shop is somehow getting featured in the movie. So they will use some of our handmade Christmas ornaments, Christmas decor and stuff like that we’ve had over the last two winters and those will be used to decorate their Christmas trees and it’s all really cool.”

The shoot at The Makerie location is set for two days. The Meeting Mr. Christmas crew told Hayhurst there’s a good vibe at

The Makerie and have left the mishmash of tables and chairs as they are.

“They’ve said they like the esthetic that we have,” Hayhurst said. “The fact that somebody is coming in from a movie’s art director perspective and likes what we’re doing here just helps me remember that I’m on a good path, you know?”

Hayhurst was born and raised in Prince George, got her education in fine arts and then moved into economic development, marketing and communications.

As she developed her career, she really wanted to get back to the fine arts aspect of her life.

“I was seeing organizations across the board, whether they were small business to large organizations that had really grown into a place of being very uncomfortable with the creative process and so what I recognized was that in order to get there we had to start way, way, way, way back and just tell adults that it’s OK to play and so the concept of The Makerie came up through some other things I was working on and then it just evolved,” Hayhurst said. “This is a place where adults can feel at home. You can come in, you can get a great coffee and just sit in here and be in a creative space for a while and then maybe something will catch your eye and you’ll get a spark and you’ll start to play. It’s just a place to spark some creative energy in grown ups.”

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen staff

Kim Hayhurst, owner of The Makerie, a craft and coffee bar downtown Prince George, is thrilled her shop will be showcased in the movie Meeting Mr. Christmas.

HOCKEY ACTION Cariboo Cougars forward Chase Pacheco rips a shot on net against the South Island Royals on Saturday afternoon at CN Centre in the first game of a weekend doubleheader for the two teams, top. The Cougars won 7-3 on Saturday and 4-1 on Sunday. Below, the IDL Projects U18 Cougars took on the Vanderhoof U18 Bears on Sunday afternoon at CN Centre during PGMHA action. The Cougars defeated the Bears 2-0.

Gym owner ﬁghting to restore his business

MARK NIELSEN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

From warped walls to flying bars to salmon ladders, Riley Banzer knows a thing or two about negotiating his way through a ninja-style obstacle course.

Banzer, 27, launched Olympus Freerunning in September 2019 as a place for parkour enthusiasts to practice their skills in a safe, indoor setting. He also hosted bouts of Battle Bow - like paintball but with bows and arrows, without the pointy ends, of course.

But less than six months later, in March 2020, Banzer had to shut down as health officials grappled with how best to stem the flood into intensive care units of patients struck with COVID-19

Five months later, he was able to reopen at 1721 Nicholson St. But measuring about 1,500 square feet, it is about half the size of the original. He’s had to put a significant portion of his equipment into storage and host smaller groups and classes.

“I didn’t know how long I was going to

be closed so I ended up taking a smaller unit and condensing all my equipment just to stay alive during that first set of lockdowns,” he said.

“And now that things have kind of sort of evened out, I’m still stuck in this tiny little space where I can’t run my business at full capacity.”

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has said restrictions will be gradually eased starting on the Family Day long weekend if all goes according to plan.

With some light emerging at the end of the pandemic tunnel, Banzer is now in search of a spot three or four times larger and ideally with a higher ceiling.

“I will have to take a bit more financial risk in hopes that I can get back up and running but I did the same thing when I first started,” Banzer said. “It was no guarantee that people were going to come to my gym when I took on the bigger space, so I will just be repeating the cycle two years later.”

CITIZEN PHOTOS BY JAMES DOYLE

Why we didn’t cover the rally

Last year, we covered several protests opposed to various vaccine mandates in February, May and June.

We also covered a public rally in September featuring Maxime Bernier, leader of the People’s Party of Canada, that drew similar crowds raising similar issues

Each rally was louder, more boisterous and angrier than the one before it.

We’re all pretty used to the usual “Citizen sucks” and “lamestream media” insults about why we don’t cover their concerns (read: publish their statements, regardless of whether they’re true or not) but by the time the September event happened, it had evolved into veiled threats and intimidation. Yelling at a Citizen photographer and trying to knock a camera, a delicate piece of equipment worth thousands of dollars, out of his hands was the final straw.

Come to our event, not for honest reporting, but so that we can call you names, yell in your face and try to wreck your stuff? No thanks.

It’s simply not safe to assign staff to these events any more, not just for the boorish behaviour they encounter when they get there but also for the increased risk of acquiring COVID from people who refuse to respect social distancing or anyone who does.

Workers in this province have the right to refuse unsafe work and managers must accommodate those concerns when raised. The Citizen shop steward representing our unionized employees has stated clearly that he believes those events are unsafe and I agree with him.

We weren’t particularly surprised in early December when Prince George RCMP said they were called after anti-vaccine bullies were intimidating people lined up at a vaccine clinic.

We covered numerous rallies in 2021, from Black Lives Matter and Every Child Matters to anti-oldgrowth logging. While we were sometimes criticized for our reporting (what unites every group holding protests is arguing about crowd size and complaining about photography that doesn’t make it look like there was a massive turnout), the only events my staff were harassed at were anti-vaccine protests. So we won’t be reporting on these local rallies for now. There are plenty of other stories to cover in Prince George and we’ll be focusing our attention on those.

- Editor-in-chief Neil Godbout

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

Journalists are our friends

This paper has stated they won’t cover the local rallies opposing the vaccine mandates in order to keep their employees safe Having only attended the January 29th rally in support of the trucker convoy and not seeing any media there, I must accept it as a valid reason.

The fact that it has reached the point where local journalists feel unsafe reporting on a rally that seeks publicity is deplorable. Journalists should be the friend of any freedom-loving person How has it come to this? How did faith in the media turn to distrust to the point of making reporters feel unsafe?

Journalists are supposed to be our friends. The role of the press (or media) is to protect us against government abuse of power. In a democracy, we have elections and we can throw out those politicians we don’t like. In between elections, we depend on journalists to keep

THINKING ALOUD

TRUDY

KLASSEN

politicians accountable for their actions, so that we can decide whether to vote for them next time.

So, what’s the problem?

Friends look out for each other.

Friends don’t kick friends when they are down. So why is it that, for as long as I can remember, whenever the media came up, ordinary people have said things like “I was glad to be asked for a comment, but they twisted what I meant!” or “I was interviewed once and they made me look like a fool.” And “They weren’t interested in the real story, they just got me to say something stupid and ran with that.”

Dear journalists, when interviewing everyday folks, give them the benefit of the doubt, especially when

asking about something they are quite passionate about Everyday people are not polished, experienced or politically astute, so they easily end up saying something that can be taken out of context or made to sound worse than what they mean.

It may make for great click-bait headlines, but it won’t endear you to the public.

More seriously, it breaks down that vital relationship between the public and the media that relies on trust, just like any friendship. This problem won’t be solved overnight, but it will begin when people see politicians unable to avoid answering tough questions from the media, and when Mary across the street can read an article she is quoted in and she tells her friends: “They didn’t misrepresent what I said!”

Trudy Klassen is a Prince George writer.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LOVE FOR LORNE

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Lorne LaRose, Elvis, of the PG Hotel fame.

We as kids of the 1970’s and adolescence had our fun with music and fun. Lorne was a brother, he was never an evil person and protected many customers and coached a safe night.

Lorne will be missed and I mention he was caring and set the tone for a fine evening. P.G.’s character was built with people like him, where we cared for ourselves and held a pride for our town.

Travel well, my friend, and walk into the light.

Robert E. Sebastian, Hazelton

TEACHER SUPPORT

As a loyal Prince Georger, I have been saddened to note the decay in the benefits our taxes produce. Perhaps our community values are most readily apparent in a comparison of the local salary structures of a newly hired high school teacher and that of a new RCMP constable.

After completing a 26-week course at RCMP Regina Depot where they receive $525 weekly allowance as well as complimentary uniforms and room/board, new constables can expect to receive annual salaries of approximately $63,000.

The newly graduated high school teacher who has personally paid for six years of UNBC education courses can expect an initial salary of about

$58,000 with School District 57.

That, I believe, reveals where our priorities lay.

We release constables after a mere 26 weeks where emphasis has been placed on shooting a gun and driving a vehicle through a collision course onto our Prince George streets where they find themselves coping with our unfortunate citizens, each of whom have so many personal issues.

The new high school teacher begins the new job at one of the lowest starting salaries of any Canadian province.

Trouble in the streets and our schools are proof that a close look at our societal values is long overdue.

Marilyn Hinton, Prince George

LOST CREDIBILITY

Hasn’t Trudeau given The Citizen enough money?

You have no problem reporting the flipflopping of Dr. Bonnie or the blockades of First Nations or the potential (not proven) grave sites in Williams Lake.

You and all of your reporters, in the press, have lost your credibility because you are now reporting personal opinions rather than reporting the facts of what is actually happening.

John Taylor, Osoyoos

Editor’s Note: The Citizen receives funds from the Aid to Publishers component of the Canada Periodical Fund, which provides support to publishers of community

newspapers owned and operated by Canadians. One of The Citizen’s reporter positions is also subsidized by the Local Journalism Initiative.

SCARY TORIES

The Conservative Party just picked a clone of Donald Trump, with a MAGA hat and echoing his infamous words (There are good people on both sides) regarding the so-called protest against the COVID mandates. Is this the best the Conservatives have? Scary!

Senaka Malleappah, Prince George

BRAVO, CITIZEN

Bravo for not playing into the hands of these misguided protesters and giving them what they are so desperate for – attention! Thank you.

Peter Chmiel, Kelowna

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.

Lumumba dreamed of freedom

Malcolm X called Patrice Lumumba “the greatest black man ever to walk the continent of Africa.” He was a very principled man and one who is still revered 61 years after his murder.

Lumumba was the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He brought people together because he embraced the highest of ideals, but this also made him a tremendous threat to men with nefarious intentions.

At the Congolese independence ceremony on June 30, 1960, the Belgian king gave a condescending speech which praised the work of his genocidal ancestor Leopold II in the Congo Free State and celebrated the oppressive years of Belgian colonization.

Lumumba gave a controlled, yet powerful response. He recognized the struggle his people had endured for their hard-won independence and called on all citizens to work

COMMUNITY POLLS

Are you in support of the

truckers protest?

● Yes, Canadians are free to protest and state their opinion 3177 votes, 25 per cent

● Yes, but I condemn all illegal activities or hate speech. 90 votes, 7 per cent

● Valid reasons to protest but I don’t like how they’re doing it. 109 votes, 9 per cent

● No, but I support their right to peacefully protest. 189 votes, 15 per cent

● No, this protest is just a front for extremist views. 561 votes, 44 per cent

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

● It’s better than it could have been and lower than inflation. 148 votes, 22 per cent

● It’s good but they could have cut it down more. 53 votes, 8 per cent

● About what I expected. 148 votes, 22 per cent

● It’s not good and they should have cut more. 153 votes, 23 per cent

LESSONS IN LEARNING GERRY CHIDIAC

together to build their new nation.

He spoke of how, despite the years of humiliation and exploitation, the Congolese were ready to welcome as equals all who would join them in this effort.

For numerous reasons, chaos erupted in the Congo shortly after independence Though the Belgians had succumbed to grant his country political independence, they had no intention of reducing the flow of wealth from the Congo into their own coffers.

United Nations peacekeepers were soon called in to restore order.

In an effort to build a strong and independent Congo, Lumumba asked for support from several Western nations, including Canada. All of

his requests were rebuffed.

True to his ideal of international collaboration, Lumumba finally asked the Soviet Union for help.

This was too much for the Americans and their allies.

They could not lose control of a resource rich country in the heart of Africa at the height of the Cold War. One of Dwight Eisenhower’s last orders as U.S. president was the death of Patrice Lumumba. In January 1961, the Americans, Belgians and their Congolese collaborators captured Lumumba, shot him and then dissolved his body parts in acid.

It is tragic that Lumumba was never given the opportunity to build the Congo he dreamed of. His ideals, however, are timeless, and can be embraced by anyone anywhere who believes in human equality and a better world.

Long live Patrice Lumumba. Gerry Chidiac is a Prince George teacher.

● It’s worse than it should have been; when do I vote?

170 votes, 25 per cent

Are there adequate housing options in Prince George?

● Yes, but prices are out of hand. 120 votes, 20 per cent

● Yes, but more diversity would help. 28 votes, 4 per cent

● Not much choice out there. 58 votes, 10 per cent

● No, too few choices for too much. 211votes, 35 per cent

● No, not enough choice for seniors, first-time buyers 189 votes, 31 per cent

HORO SC OPES &P UZ ZLES

PUZZLE NO. 857

Naught

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.

PUZZLE NO. 121

RICHARDMILLNS

FEBRUARY2,2019

Whenwelosesomeone welovewemustlearn nottolivewithoutthem, buttolivewiththelove theyleftbehind.Missing youalways.

-Love,Sean,Rose, Tianna,Ethan,andChilli

MARKO MOGUS passed away on February 2nd 2022 at the age of 86 years. He is survived by his loving wife Ana, son Miro and sister Anka. Marko was predeceased by his parents Jela and Stjepan Mogus and brothers; Mijo, Joze and Dane. A funeral service for Marko will be held on Thursday February 10th 2022 at 1:30 pm at Assman’s Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your choice of charity.

Ramona Larrett

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Ramona Larrett of Prince George at the age of 65. She was a free spirt with a beautiful soul who cherished life and friendship along the way. A true child of nature. Ramona is survived by her children; Shayne Larrett (Lisa), Trevor Jarvis (Jessica), Haley Jarvis (Sal) and 8 grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Keith Larrett, nieces, nephews, cousins, partner Al, her extended family Louise and Mike and dearest friends.

She was predeceased by her mother Thelma Larrett , father Larry Sinclair Larrett, brother Alan Orr and her beloved dog Zeus. Her family will be holding a celebration of life for her later in the spring. In lieu of Flowers donations may be made to Humane society.

May all your trails lead to happiness; Until we meet again.

REMEMBRANCES

July 19, 1939- February 2, 2022

It is with heavy hearts we announce that Thomas/Tom “Papa” has left us for that gold medal game on heaven ice on February 2, 2022 at the age of 82 yrs. He was surrounded by his loving wife Barb of 59 yrs-(60 yrs on June 9) and his daughters.

Tom was born in Last Lake, AB July 19, 1939. He was #6 in a line up of 9. He spent his youth in Kamloops BC -met Barbmarried-started a family and moved to Prince George in 1970-he said “only 2 yrs guys” and here we are 52 yrs laterthis is Papa’s home now.

He was so incredibly passionate about hockey, fishing, hunting with his brothers, Big 6 ball, all racquet sportsclearly he was a fan of all sports. He was a member of the PG Oldtimers Hockey team for several years-shared many stories from his travels with his hockey buddies. That is one thing Papa did well-tell a story-100 times over. He loved to spend plenty of his time at Ness Lake surrounded by his family and friends. Tom was a business man-moving to the North when it was booming-managing/owning a mobile home company from 1970-1985. He was instrumental in the expansion of Northern BC with being able to provide housing to the many employers who were bringing their families to the North. He later evolved into a realtor for over 40+ years-working for Pace Realty & Remax until his retirement. He loved to travel-Hawaii was his favorite. As well he took such joy in travelling with Barb to watch their son Craig play during his hockey career.

He taught many of us the patience, the confidence, the courage to grow, to succeed-whether it was the right way or ‘Papas’ way. He is pre-deceased by his mother Marjorie and father Morley Endean, brothers Stanley (Cork), Norman (Butch), and sister Rose. His surviving siblings Mal-Marg-Vic-Patsy-Ken will sadly miss and forever remember their brother. Tom is survived by his wife, Barb, children Mark (Angela), Anita (Dean), Shelly (Larry) & Craig (Kris), and his grandchildren Amy (Steve), Carla (Scott), Adam, Taylar (Alex), Kristopher (Yohta), Graham (Austyn), Kyanna (Dave), Carly and great grand-children Elita, Luka, Easton, Severyn, Ezra, Brinley, Eva, Maya, Deklan and baby Teichroeb (soon to be with us). For every storm there is a rainbow. He will be missed by his many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. As a family we have chosen to honour and celebrate his life at a later date.

One of Papa’s sayings was “I’ll give you a nickel, if you grab me a beer”. Our nickel jars are full Papa.

A life well lived is a beautiful legacy. We will miss him-he will forever be lovingly remembered. Arrangements made by Assman’s Funeral. In lieu of flowers please forward donations to Prince George Rotary Hospice.

Obituaries

Thomas Edwin Endean

MARKO MOGUS

In Memoriam

Romeo Joseph Parent 1925-2022

Romeo Joseph Parent passed peacefully on January 26, 2022. He was 96 years of age and was born on November 12, 1925 in Vonda, Saskatchewan.

Romeo met and married the love of his life, Lillian Annette Bernard and they soon moved to Fyfe lake (Prince George) to work in the sawmill there (1951), start his family (7 daughters) and eventually move into town. He lived an interesting life, and at all times lived it to the fullest! He was a farmer, trapper, and logger, built roads, fought wild fires, and was instrumental in developing the Mica and Williston Dams (he and his brother Paul ran D9 cats to create the basins). He was part of creating the first French Canadian Club in Prince George, the ‘Sacred Heart Credit Union’ now known as the ‘Spruce Credit Union’ and sold Co-op memberships for the first Co-op in Prince George. He spent his retirement years in Abbotsford and Langley doing what he loved to do- raising cows, puppies, gardening, cooking, and especially, making his famous ‘special’ whiskey.

Nothing made him happier and more proud than having family gatherings. He leaves behind: his wife of 71 years, Lillian, and daughters Diane (Darrell); Lucille (Ray); Margaret (John); Lorette (Harry); Janet (deceased) (Bob); Murielle (Tony), & Suzanne (Orlando).

He was also very proud of all of his 17 grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren, remembering, treasuring, and reliving times spent with them. He talked about hunting trips with his grandsons to the very end, always planning and looking forward to the next one.

He is also survived by his brother Maurice (Pauline) and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Romeo’s Celebration of Life will be held July 9th at Immaculate Conception Church at 11:00 am.

He will be greatly missed by all of us!!

As a family, we wish to thank Simon Fraser Lodge & staff for their kindness, compassion, and the excellent care that was provided. Thank You!

Hay, William David

Jan. 9, 1947 - Jan. 28, 2022

With deep sadness we say goodbye to a beloved husband, brother, uncle, cousin, colleague, and teammate.

Predeceased by parents Hubert Hay and Marguerite Gouchie, Bill is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linda MacKinley-Hay, his sister Maureen (Leo Murray), his brother Richard (Janice), numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends from Oromocto High School and the Stinkhorns old timers hockey team.

Born in Chatham, NB, Bill excelled in both academics and sport, modelling the qualities of perseverance and fairplay throughout his youth that would continue throughout his adult years.

It was while he was attending St. Thomas University in Fredericton that he played hockey with the Tommies and achieved the distinction of being on the 1966-67 team that represented NB in the first Canada Winter Games in Quebec City. In 2017 this team was duly honoured by being the newest inductee to STUs Sports Wall of Fame.

With an MEd in Curriculum Studies from the University of New Brunswick, Bill enjoyed teaching at both junior high and secondary schools for 35 years while also serving as editor of both provincial and national Canadian Council of Teachers of English newsletters. A highlight of this phase of his life was the selection and edit of an anthology of student writing in 1989 co-sponsored by the Pandora Charitable Trust and the CCTE and entitled Everybody Needs a Blanket and . . . .

After retiring for the first time in 2004, Bill began a “Western adventure” with Linda, eventually joining the School of Education at the University of Northern British Columbia where he continued to indulge his love of teaching, retiring for the second time in 2019.

During his last two decades, Bill’s extracurricular pursuits involved travelling to various literary and jazz festivals with Linda, the two indulging their shared love of literature and improvisational musicianship. Never far from mind, however, was his early love of sport, and both the Blue Jays and the Canucks provided the thrills and the heartbreak that every sports fan knows are intrinsic to the game.

A kind, thoughtful, and loving man who touched the lives of thousands of students, Bill was taken from us too soon.

There is no celebration of life scheduled at this time.

Donations to the charity of choice would be greatly appreciated.

WILLIAM CAMERON

2x48.0

PGC002413

Cameron,WilliamR. February18,1922-January19,2022

Withheavyhearts,weannouncethepassingofBill Cameron.Billwaspredeceasedbyhiswife,Marg,and survivedbyhischildren,Scott(Donna),Peggy(Albert), andPat(Jeff);grandchildren,Deryk(Riho),Ryan (Nicole),Bill(Ashlee),Matthew,Conrad(Louise),and Carlyn(Brandon);andgreat-grandchildren,Jesiah,Tyra, Luke,andKate.

Thefamilywouldliketosendaspecialthankyoutothe staffatthePrinceGeorgeChateau,thedoctors,nurses (emergency,rehabandhomecare),andthestaffat HospiceHouseandAssman’sFuneralChapel.We appreciateallofyou.

Brenda Tallon 1951-2022

Brenda Tallon (Gramma B), age 70, passed away January 23, 2022, at the Prince George Hospice House.

She was born April 9, 1951, in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, Predeceased by her husband, Frank Aelick; three children, Jerry Edmond Dubois, Tammy Lee-ann Dubois, Michael John Dubois and Grandson Michael Aaron Lerat.

Survived by-brother Brian Tallon (Suzan) – Matthew Tallon; grandchildren and greatgrandchildren; Jerry Dubois (Ivy) – Illianna and Kane. Nicole Pike (Gary) – Temperance. Shawn Lerat (Jennifer)- Isaiah and Jacob. Thomas Speirs (Keli) – Gigi. Joshua Speirs (Brady). Leanne Cowan. Amanda Cowan- Landon, Carter and Ty

She also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss her.

A memorial service will be held at 11AM Saturday February 5th, 2022, at Lakes Community Church, with Pastor Brad officiating. In lieu of Flowers please make donations to the MS Society of Canada.

Marilyn Ruth Storie

October 22, 1953 - January 27, 2022

On Thursday, January 27, 2022, Marilyn Storie loving mother of three children, passed away at age 69. Marilyn was born on October 22, 1953 in Misson, BC to Joseph Pierre Camille (Cam) and Jean Hudon née McLeod. Marilyn was predeceased by her daughter, Evelyn (Josh) Derish. She raised three daughters, Evelyn, Madelaine Aitken (Levi Aitken) and Agatha Storie, and had four granddaughters, Alazahia, Kaleiha, Audrina and Autumn.

She had a passion for writing. She also loved to collect antiques and jewellery. She was a reporter at the Citizen for a number of years.

Please forward any donations in Marilyn’s memory to the very worthy Prince George Hospice House Society.

Oct. 31, 1928Feb. 6, 2022

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Georgie, due to complications of diabetes. Georgie was predeceased by her husband Albert, twin sister Andrina, brother Henry and other family and friends.

Left to mourn her passing, beloved son (sometimes infuriating) Gilbert (Kim), and grandsons Albert John (Lindsay) of Rouleau Sask., and Jessey (Jessica) of Nanaimo BC and sister Dorothy Banner of Scotland and other friends and family in Canada and Scotland. She wished she could have had more time with greatgrandchildren Gabriel, Noah and Abigail and Caleb, Camden and Carson.

Georgie had many jobs over the years but her favourite was working with the “guys” as an Aimhi supervisor. She was very creative and enjoyed knitting, crosswords, mystery books and shows, rug hooking and shopping at “V.V Boutique”. Georgie’s grandsons will miss her great hugs and the walks home from school where she taught them their multiplication tables among other “school stuff”. Once a teacher ...always a teacher.

SCOTT FORBES 2x83.0 PGC002412

FORBES(neeNewton),DarleneMay April9,1937-January9,2022

Darlenepassedawaypeacefullysurroundedbyherfamily onJanuary9,2022,atGatewayComplexCareinPrince George,BC.

ShewasborntoIsaacandMurielNewtononApril9, 1937,inEstevan,Saskatchewan.

DarleneissurvivedbyherdaughtersKimberly(Alan)and Jackie(Marty);sonsJeffandScott(Ken);brotherArnold (Doreen);sistersDonna(Dave)andHeather(Brian);and numerousgrandchildren,great-grandchildren,niecesand nephews.

Darlenewaspredeceasedbyherhusband,John(Jack),in 1998.

DarlenewasraisedintheCanadianPrairiesandjoinedthe Canadianmilitaryrightoutofhighschool.Inthemilitary, shemetJackandstartedafamilyinColdLake,Alberta. ThemilitarytookDarleneandJacktoAlberta,Manitoba, Quebec,andOntariobeforefinallysettlingbackinJack’s homeprovinceofBC,wheretheylivedinSquamish, VictoriaandtwostintsinPrinceGeorge.Thisiswhere Darlenechosetoliveoutherretirementyears.

Darlenehadafascinationwithgenealogyandcombined thatwithherloveoftravelwhenevershecould.Herphoto albumsofEurope,Australia,Alaska,andnumerous cruisesbroughthergreatjoyandexcitingconversations totheveryend.

Herspicyandunfilteredpointofviewwillbemissedand willbethecauseoflaughterinremembranceformany years.

Darlene’sfamilywouldliketothankthestaffatGateway ComplexCarefortheirkindandcompassionatecare.

Inlieuofflowers,adonationtothePGHospiceSocietyor CanadianCancerSocietyisappreciated.

The family would like to thank PCMU(UHNBC) , SSMU(UHNBC) and Simon Fraser Lodge staff who were always kind and caring. Love and appreciation to Danell Clay and Darlene Smith and Becca and Khloee Brooks who always made her smile and feel loved and special.

No service, by request but please tell a bawdy joke and raise a glass to Georgie. She had the best belly laugh and loved her wine. She could tell a joke with the best of ‘em. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the SPCA because as Georgie always said “Dogs are better than people”

RIP sweet old girl.

Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night

Do not go gentle into that good night,

Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,

Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright

Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight

Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. by Dylan

Thomas

Georgina N. Rand (nee Main)

Jared Meade

We sadly announce the passing of Jared Meade, aged 25, born in Maple Ridge, BC. He was a spontaneous and energetic young man who was always the life of the party. Jared is survived by his mother D’ann, brothers Josh and Jesse, aunt Angela and cousin Kyle.

Lorne Keith LaRose

Lorne “AKA ELVIS” passed peacefully in his sleep from pancreatic cancer while surrounded by his wife Sherri LaRose, daughter Lexie LaRose and sister Sheryl Auditte. Lorne is survived by his loving wife Sherri, daughter Lexie Taylor Christine LaRose and son, Lane Jack LaRose. He is also survived by his four brothers; Neil, Pat, Blake and Gordon LaRose and one sister Linda Patchet. Lorne was predeceased by his mother Marianne Breau.

He was the most loving husband and father who always looked out for his family and friends. He had a heart of gold and will be dearly missed. No service by request.

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.

Robert William “Bob” Hills

December 16, 1939 - January 29, 2022

The family would like Princess Auto, KMS Tools, Staples and the Costco bakery department to know that a loyal customer has passed.

Bob was a “Jack of All Trades and a Master of Some”. He held certificates in Heavy Duty Mechanical Repair, Automotive Service Technician, Motor Vehicle Inspector, Air Conditioning and Retrofit and was licensed in Motor Vehicle Service and Repair. He was involved as a volunteer for the Pineview Fire Department for many years.

The thrill of a good find caused many road trips in the area in all conditions, usually with his son Chris and a car trailer involved bringing home another priceless family keepsake for the yard. His love of working with hands is passed on to his son Chris and the three grandsons all of whom work in the Trades fields.

Bob was predeceased by his parents Bill and Dorothy and his son Michael.

He was a husband to Ute for 60 years, a father to Marianne (Don) Nitz and Chris (Trina) Hills; a grandfather to Riley (Meg) Nitz, Melissa (Hunter) Nitz, Nathan (Brittney) Hills and Matthew (J.J.) Hills; a great grandfather to Zen and Carson and a brother to Rick (Diane) Hills of Chilliwack as well as an uncle to Matt (Christine) Hills and Christy (Aaron) Hills.

The family would like to thank the paramedics and medical staff at UHNBC, the Pineview Fire Department and the staff at the Prince George Hospice for the care of Bob. Also, we would like to thank neighbours Rita and Jeff and Will and Mandy for the help over the years and the friendship, it is greatly appreciated by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Prince George Hospice or the Kidney Foundation.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Joseph Gabriel Laliberte on January 23, 2022. He was born on February 28, 1940 in Green Lake, Sask.

Paul is survived by his loving wife Frances (Faye) of 56 years and daughters Karen (Chris) and Lynn. Also grandchildren Tiffany (Aaron), Aleisha (Dylan), Kristina (Dan) and great grandchildren Aaliyah, Madison, Peyton, Carter and Maverick.

He also leaves behind his sisters Catherine, Rosa (Bill) and brother Etienne (Cecile).

Paul was predeceased by parents Emilien and Albertine, brother Abraham and sisters Antoinette, Margaret, Georgina and Fabiola.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Father Gilbert, Dr. Higgins, Homecare and staff at University Hospital of Northern BC. We also acknowledge the staff at Rotary Hospice House who provided Paul with the utmost comfort, compassion and dignity during his final days.

Donations to Prince George Hospice Palliative Care Society in memory of Paul would be greatly appreciated. Paul was a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for March 26, 2022 at 10:30am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Toys/Games/Puzzles

HELP WANTED

Dolphin Timber Trading - Primary Sawmill Prince George

In association with Longhouse Forest Products, Parksville BC since 1982

Labourers Required full time

Skilled Labour – Wage negotiable 4 Sawyers Required

Unskilled Labour starts at $22.00 per hour will train.

• Experience working in a lumber mill an Asset

• Identify species of lumber an asset

• Attention to detail

• Able totally accurately and package lifts of lumber

• First Aid ticket as asset

• Grading Ticket as asset

• Forklift Certiﬁcation an asset

• Must have own steel toe boots

• Able to lift up to 50 pounds required

• Must be able to speak and write English ﬂuently. Apply to: Brian@longhousecedar.com

Job requirements:

• Commitment to safety

• High school / GED

• Valid driver ’s license (at least an N)

• 1 year relevant experience

A CAREER IN THE FIRE & LIFE SAFETY INDUSTRY?

Management/Administration

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Dollar Saver lumber operates a lumber re-manufacturing operation in Prince George We currently have an opportunity in our management group for a Sales Production coordinator.

This position is responsible to perform the following functions:

• Co-ordinate purchase of raw material to meet mill requirements

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

• Work with Mill Management to ensure optimal inventories are maintained.

• Communicate with customers to ensure their needs are being met

Preference will be given for persons

• Good computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Excel.

The successful candidate will possess the following qualities

• The ability to deal with customer needs in a calm constructive manner

• The ability to adjust to rapidly changing conditions and developments

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

• Good analytical skills

The position offers:

• A competitive salary and benefit package

• Opportunity to work in friendly non- bureaucratic environment

Please submit your resume to Frank Skerlak, General Sales Manager at fskerlak@lumber.ca or Bev at: gobbi1@telus.net Only those persons chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Hot Spot For

to write a classiﬁed ad that works.

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:

• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice offered or the job title.

• Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response.

• Limit abbreviations Use only standard abbreviations to avoid confusion and misinterpretations.

• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.

• 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

• Use a keyword. Start your ad with the item for sale, ser vice offered or the job title.

• Be descriptive. Give customers a reason to respond. Advertisers have found that the more information you provide, the better the response.

• Include price. Always include price of the item for sale.

• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.

To place your ad call: 604-630-3300 Writing an effective classiﬁed ad is easy when you use these time-tested principles.

• 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

Hay/Bales For Sale

• How to respond. Always include a phone number (with area code) and/or street and email address.

To advertise, call 250-562-6666 or email cls@pgcitizen.ca

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

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

WANTED 999 BULLION bars & coins!ENGELHARD, JOHNSON MATTHEY, RCM, Maple leafs + All other mints. Also Buying old money, all gold & silver coins, coin collections. + BUYING all things made with gold or silver. Todd’s Coins 1-250-864-3521

Collectibles & Classic Cars

WANTED COIN COLLECTIONS, old money, all gold & silver coins, Royal Canadian Mint coins. Also BUYING 999 BULLION bars & coins. ENGELHARD, JOHNSON MATTHEY, RCM, MAPLE LEAFS + ALL OTHER MINTS. + BUYING all things GOLD or SILVER! Todd’s Coins 1-250-864-3521

Motorcycles

SUZUKI Bandit 1200, great shape, recent tune-up and brakes. (250)613-5981

2006 HARLEY DAVIDSON Wide Glide. Low mileage. 250-6170443

2005 HARLEY DAVIDSON FAT BOY Anniversary Edition. 22,000 km $14,500 613-8567

2002 BMW 1150 RT motorcycle, excellent cond. $5500. (250)5643152 (250)640-8267 $3000 now $2500

2012

Apartments / Condos-For Sale

Spacious, 3 level 4 bdrms, 4 baths, superb location. $277,500. 250-561-1255 Ready to sell!

Property For Sale

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“DUNSTER PROPERTY FOR SALE”

Recreational Property

Houses for Sale

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ROSS HOBBS

2x26.9

PGC002416

CHUCHOFORESTRYLLPFORESTSTEWARDSHIPPLAN AMENDMENT

ChuChoForestryplansonaddinganareapreviously coveredbyaretiredwoodlottoitsForestDevelopment UnitunderitsapprovedForestStewardshipPlan.This amendmentisavailableforpublicreview.Pleasecall 250-645-4982ext3tobookanappointmentortoarrange toreceivemoreinformation.

NATHANIAL ATKINSON

NOTICEOFWOODLOTLICENCEPLANS FORLICENCESW0217&W0652

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WoodlotLicencePlanscoveringtheperiod2022to2032 havebeenpreparedfor:

PGC002414

-WoodlotLicenceW0217,locatedintheDavieLakearea. -WoodlotLicenceW0652,locatedintheRedRockandSt. MarieLakesareas.

InaccordancewiththeWoodlotLicencePlanningand PracticesRegulation,acopyofeachWoodlotLicencePlan, includingmapsareavailableforpublicreviewandcomment betweenJanuary31toMarch1,2022,atIndustrialForestry ServiceLtd.(IFS)locatedat1595FifthAvenue,Prince George,BC.Toarrangeanappointmenttorevieweitherof theplans,pleasetelephoneIFSat(250)564-4115,extension 2272.

WrittencommentsshouldbereceivednolaterthanMarch8, 2022andbeaddressedto:

NathanAtkinson,BITFITIndustrialForestryServiceLtd. 1595FifthAvenue,PrinceGeorge,BC,V2N3L9 natkinson@industrialforestry.ca

WL 653

2022-2032 Woodlot Licence Plan

Mike and Julie Naegeli has prepared a Woodlot Licence Plan (WLP) covering the ten year period from 2022 to 2032 for WL653. This WLP is in accordance with the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation. The woodlot includes Schedule A & B Lands east of Eaglet Lake.

The WLP is available for public review and comment for 30 days. Written comments should be received by Mar 11, 2022. The WLP including maps is available for public viewing at SBS Forestry Inc.

Submit written comments to:

Ron Parker, RPF

SBS Forestry Inc. 1541 Ogilvie St

Prince George, B.C. V2N 1W7

Ph 250-561-1140

HOMES

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

DESIGN

Exterior siding: how long do various types last?

Siding protects your home from the elements but inevitably takes a beating in the process. Your choice of material, however, will determine how long this partofyourhouseendures.

• Vinyl typically lasts 20 to 40 years and is easy to maintain. The grade and thickness of the panels will impact their durability If damaged, vinyl panels are easytorepairorreplace.

• Wood siding (usually cedar) can last anywherefrom15to40years.Itofers unrivalled beauty but also requires much more maintenance than other types of siding.The wood should be resealed every five years and inspected annually to stave of potential rot and pestinfestations.

• Aluminumhasalifespanofabout30to

50 years. However, expect the paint to peel after about 15 years. Fortunately, aluminum siding can be repainted. Though it’s possible for aluminum panels to be scratched, dented or pitted, theycanusuallybefixedorreplaced

• Fibre cement planks have a lifespan of about 25 to 40 years. Their colour may eventuallyfadebuttheplankscanberepainted. Fibre cement can resemble woodbutisresistant totermites androt. This type of siding requires little maintenance.

Sidingshouldalwaysbereplacedwhenit can no longer protect the internal structureofyourhome.However,itmaydeteriorate long before this and should be replaced once it becomes shabby, brittle or discoloured.

Soundproofing your basement ceiling

Soundproofing your basement ceiling maybeagoodideaifyouusethespace as a playroom, man cave, home theatre or rental suite. Here’s what you should know

MATERIALS YOU CAN USE

Yourcontractorcansoundproofyourbasementinthefollowingways:

•Soundprooﬁng panels can be installed. There are many types available ofering various levels of sound dampening.Theycomeinarangeoflooks, are often customizable and are frequentlymadeofrecycledmaterials.

•Acoustic tiles can also be used to soundproof your basement. These require a drop ceiling and a willingness to accept the associated utilitarian esthetic. They may be most suitable for ahomeoffice.

•Insulation. Increasing the amount of insulation in your ceiling can help reducethe amount of noise that carries between floors. Fibreglass insulation mufessoundsbetterthanothertypes.

•Drywall, particularly acoustic drywall, can be installed overtop a finished ceiling. Isolation clips can be fastened to ceiling joists and used to hold channels. The resulting structure can then be used to support the extra layerofdrywall.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

Soundproofing your basement is unlikely to boost the resale value of your home. However, if you rent out the space, it should be easy to recoup the costs. Nevertheless, the best reason to soundproofyourbasementceilingisto make your home a more comfortable spacetolive.

SNOW REMOVAL:

Residential• Apartments• Commercial• Industrial No siteistoo bigortoo small. We have the equipment to getthe jobdone!

Snowplowing•HaulAway •Hand Shoveling• Sanding

Should you invest in a sump pump?

Asump pump is a device that can be installed in a basement, either beneath or above the ﬂoor It’s designed to pump out water collected in a sump basin and dischargeittotheoutdoors.Consequently, your home is kept safe from the damage thatcanoccurasaresultofﬂooding.

Ifyourbasementisatriskofﬂooding,you should consider buying a sump pump, especially ifyoulive somewhere withahigh water table. If possible, select a submersibleratherthanapedestalpump,asthey’re less noisy when covered withalid.Youshouldalso opt for a model with an iron core since it’s more durablethantheplasticalternative.Plus,youshould think about getting a pump with an alarm that alerts you if the water in thebasinreachesadangerouslevel.

5 must-have smart home features

Smart home devices are becoming increasingly popular, and homebuyers are starting to expect them as standard features. Here are the key ones to consider adopting.

1.Locks. Openers for garages and locks for doors that can be operated from your smartphoneareaconvenientfeature.They allowyoutolockandunlockyourhome fromvirtuallyanywhere.

2.Thermostats. Delivering both comfort andsavingsonenergycosts,smartthermostatsareasmartinvestment

3.Lighting. Controlling your lights is a mustforanyoneseriousabouthomeautomation. Fortunately, there are a variety of options available, from hue-changingsmartbulbstosmartswit-

chesanddimmers.

4.Detectors. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors simultaneously sound an alarm and send an alert to your smartphone (and anyone else you authorize) if danger is detected. Some models also incorporate emergency lighting.

5.Home security. Keep an eye on your homefromanywhere.Smartsecuritysystems are highly customizable and available as do-it-yourself conﬁgurations or comprehensive setups that include professionalinstallationandmonitoring.

Expect these and other smart home devices to become must-have features in homes. You can purchase them from the electronics, appliance and garage door retailers in your area.

Inaddition,youmaywant to install a secondary sump pump next to the

ﬁrst one, especially if you have a ﬁnished basement.Thisway,ifyourprimarypump fails or becomes overtaxed, the secondary pumpwillautomaticallytakeover.

Abattery backup pumpcan also beinstalled. In the event of a power outage, this typeofpumpwillcontinuetoworkforup to twodays.

To install a sump pump in your home, speak with a qualiﬁed plumber in your area.

How to make your home wheelchair accessible

Renovating a home to accommodate the needs of someone in a wheelchair can be challenging. Undoubtedly, you’ll requirethehelpofprofessionalcontractors. Here’s a brief look at the modiﬁcations you’llneedtomake.

•Bathroom. You’ll need suﬃcient clearance space and a sink and toilet adjusted to the appropriate heights. A stand-alone shower or walk-in bathtub willalsoberequired.Inbothcases,grab barsareamust.

•Doorways. Modifying your doorways by installing oﬀset hinges or removing the door and trim may be suﬃcient. However,wideningthedoorwaysmight be necessary Handles may need to be replacedwithonesthatareeasiertouse.

•Kitchen. A truly wheelchair friendly kitchen will include modiﬁcations to the countertops, sinks, cabinets, appliances and possibly the overalllayout.

•Flooring. The ideal ﬂoor in a wheelchair accessible home is one that’s slip-resistant, easy to maintain, wears well and provides good traction. Laminate,

GOOD TO KNOW

vinyl,ceramicandlow-pileorcommercialcarpetingareallgoodchoices.

•Lighting. Glare is often an issue for people who use a wheelchair, but this can frequently be resolved by altering the position or angle of lights.Another consideration is the location of light switches, which should be placed at a heightof92centimetres.

Keep in mind that other modiﬁcations may be needed. Depending on the conﬁgurationofyourhome,youmayrequirea chairlift,elevator,rampsandevenstructuralchangestothehouse’slayout.Forhelp remodelling your home, contact a local specialistinhomeadaptationprojects.

Kaycie

Janine

4 tips for homeowners upgrading their garage door

are some things to keep in mind if you’re making this upgrade.

1.Use manufacturer websites. Choose a door design you like by perusing your options online. Many manufacturers have software on their website that lets you upload a photo of your homeandtryondiﬀerentgaragedoor styles.

2.Invest in good insulation. The eﬀectiveness of a garage door’s insulation is referred to by its R-value. The

higherthenumber,thebetter thedoor prevents heat transfer Garage doors insulated with polyurethane are the mosteﬃcient.

3.Optforthebestsprings. Springsare what hold the weight of your garage door and allow it to eﬀortlessly move upanddown.Standardtorsionsprings are rated for about 10,000 cycles, but those rated for 20,000 cycles are only a little bit more expensive and well worththeextracost.

4.Buy an opener at the same time. If your opener is showing its age or you want one with the latest features, this is the perfect time to replace it. You can save on installation costs by having your contractor put in the door and opener at thesametime.

Finally, make sure you hireaprofessional to install your garage door as this job can be complex, time-consuming and dangerous.

5 hardwood floor finishes and what they’re best for

Do you need to refinish your hardwood floors? If so, here’s a brief guide to five common typesthatareavailable.

1.Water-based polyurethane is ideal for ﬂoors in need of a quick-drying, clear ﬁnish. This is a product that’s low in VOCs and ages without yellowing. However,itdoeslittletohidescratches.

2.Oil-based polyurethane is best for ﬂoors in high-traﬃc areas. It’s highly durable and easytomaintain.Onthedownside, it’s slow to dry, high in VOCsandyellowsovertime.

3.Moisture cure urethane is well suited to ﬂoors that require a very tough ﬁnish. It resists moisture, scratches, stains and general wear However, it has high levels of VOCs and applying it requires you to vacateyourhome.

4.Wax is great anywhere you want a low-sheen ﬁnish. Unfortunately, it’s not very durable andtendstodarkenovertime.It can scuﬀ and scratch easily and doesn’tmixwellwithwater

5.Penetrating oil sealer is ideal forsubtlyhighlightingthenatu-

ralgrainofwood,especiallyinahistoric home. This product needs to be reappliedeveryfewyearsandrequiresawax topcoat.

You’ll find these products at your local hardware store. For top-notch results, consider hiring a professional to strip and sand your wood ﬂoors and then expertly apply theﬁnish.

GO FOR GOLD.

How to make room for a home office

Have you recently started working from home? If you need a good-size oﬃce space but don’t have a spare room, here are a few optionstoexplore.

•Basement. As long as it has adequate headroom, your ﬁnished basement (or a portion of it) can be a great place for an oﬃce. However, this isn’t the best solution if your basementhasmoistureissues.

•Attic. Some attics can be converted into usable living space. This isn’t a small renovation,however,andyoumayneed to install electrical outlets, solid ﬂooring and much more to supportyoursetup.

•Garage. If you rarely use your garage to park your car, it can be made into an oﬃce. You’ll undoubtedly need to invest in a number of updates to make it a comfortable space to work.

•Addition. This isn’t a budget-friendly option, but it could add permanent value to your home. Additions can be built above, behind or to the side of a house.

•Outbuilding. An office space that’s completely separate from the main house may oﬀer the ul-

timate distraction-free work zone. However, this can be a costly project. The funds may bebetterallocatedifspentonrenovationsto themainhouse.

When deciding how best to make room for yourhomeoffice,besuretoassessallofyour needs.Furthermore,findoutiftherenovations will affect the resale value of your home.

Foundation cracks: when to worry

The best way to ensure a crack in your foundationdoesn’tthreatenthestructural integrity of your home is to consult anexpert. However, some general guidelines can help you determine if you have a seriousproblem.

HAIRLINE CRACKS

Concrete shrinks slightly as it cures, andhairlinecracks(aboutthewidthof sewingthread)areanormalresultofit settling.They pose no structural threat and tend to appear within a year of construction. However, you should takestepstopatchthem.

NARROW CRACKS

Vertical or diagonal cracks that can’t be classiﬁed as hairline but are no wider than 1/4 of an inch are unlikely to

be a serious problem.However,thisis only the case if the cracks are stable and aren’t continuing to expand. Thin cracks can be ﬁlled with grout, and slightly wider ones should be ﬁlled with a caulk that’s compatible with concrete.

WIDE CRACKS

Any crack that’s wider than 1/2 an inch should be inspected by a professional. In particular, those with a bulge may indicate structural problems. Additionally, a crack in your foundation that’s horizontal rather than verticalordiagonalpresentsmoreofarisk.

If you have wide cracks, horizontal cracks or cracks that are getting worse, be sure to call a foundation contractor or structural engineer