Prince George Citizen, Thursday December 4, 2025

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THURSDAY, December 4, 2025

Aquatic Centre lifeline falls short

Mayor Simon Yu had asked councillors to revisit the controversial decision to close the pool for two years

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

Reopening the debate over the pending two-year closure of the Prince George Aquatic Centre did not change council’s decision at the Dec. 1 meeting.

Mayor Simon Yu had used his authority under BC’s Community Charter to force reconsideration of council’s Nov. 3 vote, which rejected Coun. Trudy Klassen’s request for a report exploring options to avoid the full two-year shutdown. Council again rejected the motion by a

six-to-three margin.

The Aquatic Centre is scheduled to close Jan. 1, 2026, for roughly two years of renovations estimated at $37 million. Before the Dec. 1 meeting, staff circulated several late-agenda letters from aquatics user groups outlining concerns and thanking staff for recent discussions.

Barracuda Swim Club president Shane

Milne wrote that he had recently met with city staff, who confirmed the Canfor Leisure Pool (CLP) could potentially host swim meets and time trials during the closure. The city plans to purchase diving platforms and move equipment such as lane ropes and timing systems from the Aquatic Centre.

Spencer Williams powers through the water on Friday, Aug. 15 during the BCSSA 2025 Provincial Championships at the Aquatic Centre. The pool will close for two years for necessary upgrades and repairs.

Local swim clubs say closure will lead to financial strain

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Milne said his club appreciated the effort to support user groups but still expected significant financial strain over the next two years.

Other letters echoed the need for temporary upgrades at the CLP. SwimBC executive director Elmar Heger said the requested improvements were essential for keeping athletes training locally during the closure, noting that without them swimmers would face higher travel costs and disrupted development.

Williams Lake Blue Fins head coach Amanda Nemeth highlighted that Prince George meets are crucial for developing swimmers across the North, particularly those too new to qualify for more competitive events elsewhere.

A separate letter came from Northern Triathlon Club president and race director Clayton Wilkinson, who warned that the closure would significantly reduce the club’s pool access — far more than the five per cent reduction mentioned at the Nov. 3 meeting.

He also criticized what he described as a lack of transparency in the lead-up to the announcement, saying user groups had been blindsided despite attempts to seek information.

With the 30th anniversary of the PG Triathlon approaching and past events relying on the Aquatic Centre, Wilkinson asked for urgent discussions with staff on short-term solutions.

With roughly 30 residents in attendance — an unusually large crowd — council began its reconsideration.

Yu argued that staff should take two weeks to explore whether closures could be staggered or phased rather than continuous.

He pointed to the letters requesting improvements at the CLP and said he had visited the pool the day before to assess whether it met international standards.

He also questioned whether all the work truly needed to be done at once, suggesting components such as plumbing and changeroom upgrades could be completed over successive summers.

Coun. Ron Polillo responded first, saying he had expected new information from the mayor but felt none had been presented.

He noted that user groups were asking primarily for improvements to the CLP, not reconsideration of the construction plan. Polillo attempted to end debate and move directly to a vote, but a procedural requirement for a twothirds majority to curtail discussion was not met.

Klassen reiterated that the spending plan had originally been approved between budget cycles and may not have received sufficient scrutiny.

She said the letters reflected frustration about a lack of prior consultation but also showed that groups were trying to work constructively within the constraints.

Coun. Tim Bennett said he was reminded of a recent news story about an abrupt Vancouver pool closure due to structural failure, underscoring the risk of deferring major repairs. He asked staff what council needed to consider in terms of contracts and procedures before altering the current plan.

Director of civic facilities Andy Beesley summarized the project’s history: an initial assessment in 2016 followed by seven subsequent reports identified extensive work necessary to ensure the

replacement.

Ramsay emphasized that phasing the work would almost certainly drive up costs and that council owed residents fiscal responsibility.

Coun. Susan Scott said she had revisited the issue repeatedly, researched specifics, and spoken to many residents. She saw no scenario in which delaying or staggering work would reduce costs or time.

Coun. Kyle Sampson compared the situation to an aging Vancouver pool where a ceiling collapse forced emergency closure. He said Prince George had the chance to avoid such a crisis by acting now.

building’s longevity.

The city’s two core goals, he said, were staying on budget and completing the full scope of work. Consultants had concluded that a single two-year shutdown would minimize both closures and costs.

Phasing the project would significantly increase total downtime, escalate expenses, and complicate scheduling. At this stage, design work is complete, contractors have scheduled the upcoming two-year window, and any attempt to change the approach would require legal review and possibly a new consultant.

Delays, he warned, could even jeopardize Prince George’s bid to host the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.

Yu argued again that requesting a report was reasonable and did not imply cancelling or reducing the project — only exploring ways to mitigate community impact.

Several councillors voiced strong support for the current plan. Coun. Cori Ramsay said comments implying staff had not done due diligence were unfair. She noted the original needs assessment called for immediate building-envelope repairs, which will extend the facility’s life by about 20 years.

A temporary closure, she said, was a fair price to avoid a far costlier

Tests had shown that the Aquatic Centre’s structure would not last without substantial upgrades. Although a two-year closure was unfortunate, he said, the project was necessary to preserve the facility for decades.

Sampson also responded to residents who asked why the money could not be diverted to housing, noting that the city was repairing a highly specialized public facility, not building a house.

He added that staff would not be able to generate meaningful new analysis in two weeks after nearly a decade of work.

Yu replied that the motion simply sought information on alternatives, not a change to the project’s scope. The work, he argued, did not necessarily need to occur simultaneously.

After the vote, Skakun asked about providing the public with regular updates on the project.

Director of finance and IT services Kris Dalio said quarterly financial updates had already been requested and construction updates could be included as well.

Vote summary

Administration is directed to return a report on options to avoid a two-year closure of the Aquatic Centre

• In favour: Yu, Klassen, Skakun

• Against: Sampson, Polillo, Scott, Bennett, Ramsay, Frizzell Result: defeated.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY COLIN SLARK

Mayor Simon Yu uses a measuring stick to point out that the Aquatic Centre’s deep end doesn’t meet international standards during a discussion about the two-year closure of the facility as council meets Monday, Dec. 1.

City to buy new dive platform for Canfor Leisure Pool

clock can be moved from the Aquatic Centre to the Canfor pool for use during the closure.

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

Prince George city council approved the $36,400 purchase of three diving platforms for the Canfor Leisure Pool at its Monday, Dec. 1 meeting.

The Prince George Aquatic Centre is set to be closed for two or more years starting Jan. 1, 2026, forcing groups like the Barracuda Swim Club and the Pisces Swim Club to find alternative arrangements for training and events.

A report written by director of civic facilities and events Andy Beesley attached to the Dec. 1 meeting agenda said that staff have figured out that touch pads, a quantum timer, lane harnesses with plungers and a small score

The shallow end of the main pool at the Canfor is 1.05 metres, which meets the minimum depth for flip turns in a competition setting.

However, Beesley said that both swim clubs identified that three additional dive platforms are still needed to add to the three already present.

For that reason, city administration proposed the purchase of the three platforms at a cost of $36,400 to bring the Canfor up to a total of six.

At the Nov. 3 council meeting, a letter from Barracuda president Shane Milne was presented asking councillors to find a way to mitigate the long closure, expressing fears that going so long without their main venue could be an existential threat to the organization.

Beesley’s report concludes by acknowledging that the long closure of

the Aquatic Centre will be a challenge for users.

He wrote that staff have worked to provide space and time at the Canfor Leisure Pool to various groups during the closure, with their allotted hours generally going down by five per cent or less.

Other work has been done to accommodate the Water Lilies Club, an inclusive synchronized swimming club, and local Special Olympics athletes.

“Pending council approval of the request for the three additional diving platforms, this along with the other measures described within this report represent meaningful solutions to maintain the long-term viability of competitive swimming in Prince George,” Beesley wrote.

“Aquatics management will continue to closely monitor all types of pool use and make adjustments as feasible throughout the entire shutdown of the Aquatic Centre.”

During the meeting, Beesley said that it was determined that it would be more cost-effective to buy platforms that fit the Canfor pool rather than modify and move the platforms from the Aquatic Centre.

Mayor Simon Yu said he wanted staff to make sure that they would meet regulations for official swim meets and said it might be easy to modify the Aquatic Centre platforms.

Beesley said he was pretty sure they would work, but he would double check.

Vote summary

Council approves the purchase of three diving platforms for the Canfor Leisure Pool

• Voting in favour: Ramsay, Polillo, Scott, Skakun, Frizzell, Klassen, Bennett and Sampson

• Voting against: Yu

Result: approved by a margin of 8 to 1

Skakun walks out of development fast-tracking vote

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

The discussion over a proposed fast-tracking program for building and development permitting at Prince George city council’s Monday, Dec. 3 meeting turned into a confrontation between a councillor and the city manager.

The idea for the program came from Coun. Kyle Sampson, who gave notice at council’s Nov. 3 meeting that he would be bringing forward the proposal.

A report written by Sampson dated Oct. 15 said that builders, tradespeople and developers have told him in recent months that the city’s permitting and inspection processes could be improved.

During council’s discussion of the program, Coun. Brian Skakun said he was frustrated because he’s been pressing administration and his fellow councillors to deal with delays and developers being overcharged for three years and it took a notice of motion for staff to do what already should have been done.

Skakun expressed concerns that Sampson’s proposal would lead to a two-tier system where those who pay to fast-track their projects would get the service that all applicants should be getting.

Skakun outlined a list of his concerns with the department, including high staff turnover, deficiencies in customer service and flawed processes. He said the problems won’t be solved by charging fees but investing in the department.

He challenged city manager Walter Babicz to say whether he was happy with the current state of the development services department.

Babicz said Skakun’s remarks were disparaging of staff and multiple departments, asked that council not continue with discussion over staff that would be better served for a closed council session.

Skakun said it would be difficult for him not to speak the truth and would accept whatever code of conduct complaints that may be levied against him.

Coun. Ron Polillo said he thought Skakun’s allegations were out of order

and that Skakun’s experiences were not the same as his own.

Later in the meeting, Skakun told Polillo that he wouldn’t compromise his values and said it was unfortunate that Babicz thought he was disparaging city staff.

At one point, director of planning and buildings Deanna Wasnik denied that developers had been overcharged for items by city staff, saying that they levy fees as determined by the fees and charges bylaw.

After she said that, Skakun leaned back in his chair and shook his head. By the time it came for council to vote on the item, Skakun had left the room, returning after the item was approved. In his original report, Samson stated that his proposal wasn’t a criticism of city staff, who are working hard under high demand and changing regulations. Instead, he said, “it’s an opportunity for council to provide more resources and political direction to build on those efforts, introduce better tools and structure, and help ensure that our internal processes are as efficient and responsive as possible.”

He said that delays in the city’s permitting and inspection queue can add costs to builders, which are ultimately passed down to homebuyers.

Other BC municipalities like Kelowna, Vancouver and Nanaimo have modernized approval systems in place that set clear expectations, timelines and measures to turn around files as quickly as possible.

The councillor’s motion proposed the creation of a streamlined permitting program for certain eligible projects, mainly housing and tenant improvements for commercial and industrial buildings, where the target is to grant approval within 10 days for applications that meet the city’s criteria.

This could include creating a list of approved professionals and builders for whom rapid application approvals are granted if they meet certain criteria. Under this list, Sampson proposes a cost-recovery method in which developers can pay a fee to get more rapid consideration of their application.

It would also include the creation of

a dedicated “fast track coordinator,” to manage expedited files and act as the primary contact for applicants.

Sampson proposed that if his motion is successful, city administration come back with a report on his idea in the first quarter of 2026 including staffing and budget requirements, a communication plan and the launching of a pilot project.

When it came time for council to discuss Sampson’s idea, Mayor Simon Yu recused himself from the discussion as he is an engineer and has been involved in building, development and permitting.

In his place, Sampson chaired that portion of the meeting as he is the deputy mayor for the month of December.

Wasnik said many of the items being proposed by Sampson are already under consideration or implementation by the city’s development services and economic development options.

Coun. Cori Ramsay wanted more information on Sampson’s definition of multi-family housing, especially as it was her understanding that some multi-family projects are taking six months to get approved and reducing that to 10 days seems like an insurmountable task.

He said he had smaller developments like fourplexes in mind, rather than apartment buildings, which Ramsay said seemed more reasonable.

Ramsay also wanted to know how this project could align with the federal Build Canada Homes project and the pre-approved housing designs it’s aiming to publish so that the city can be ready to take advantage.

Sampson said it was his impression that while the designs might be pre-approved, the situation for each lot might be different.

Wasnik said the city has put out a request for proposals for pre-approved designs for Prince George as many of the federal designs are not suitable for this area under the BC Building Code.

Coun. Tim Bennett said he felt that Sampson’s proposal addressed a lot of concerns regarding development and approval that he’s heard from locals.

He said that recent provincial legislation has taken away a lot of power from

municipalities when it comes to homebuilding and expressed concern that future developments could invalidate some of this work.

In response, Wasnik said provincial changes have thrown a bit of a wrench into her department’s timing as they had to learn and adopt new rules in quick succession as they also worked on things like a review of the city’s Official Community Plan.

Coun. Susan Scott asked Wasnik if she thought Sampson’s proposed program could adapt to future provincial and federal legislation.

She said it likely would be, as the department was already working on many of these items. This, she said, would give an official name to their efforts.

Klassen asked whether the city is still contracting outside level three building inspectors, to which Wasnik said it is.

Though Klassen said she has concerns about the department’s capacity to handle the work, she would still vote in favour of Sampson’s proposal.

Coun. Garth Frizzell said he was encouraged to hear Wasnik say some of these items were already under consideration but wanted to know about the proposed length of the fast-track pilot project.

Wasnik said it would need enough time so that they could measure success and progress of the project.

Frizzell also wanted to know if the motion passed whether staff would be able to create an approved builders list with the given criteria, which Wasnik said they could.

The proposal ultimately passed unanimously, though Yu and Skakun did not vote.

Vote summary

Council directs administration to return a first-quarter 2026 report on implementing a fast-track PG program.

• In favour: Ramsay, Polillo, Scott, Sampson, Frizzell, Klassen and Bennett

• Not present or recusing themselves: Yu and Skakun

Result: Passed unanimously by a margin of seven to zero.

Warming centres to open more quickly when cold hits

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

The City of Prince George has adjusted its extreme weather response plan so that warming centres are opened more quickly during cold weather, staff told city council at their Monday, Dec. 1 meeting.

A report attached to the meeting written by director of administrative services Eric Depenau said that in the past several years, the city has opened warming centres when temperatures are -10 C during the day and -15 C overnight.

However, Depenau noted that the city’s emergency management staff determined that these thresholds were too high given local conditions, requiring changes to the extreme weather response plan.

On top of that, a 2023 provincial report stated that cold weather response plans should be enacted when daily low temperatures are forecast to be 0 C or colder, or at higher temperatures when there’s forecasted wet, snowy and/or windy conditions.

In response to these factors, Depenau said some thresholds have changed.

colder persist for two or more weeks, the city will now send out information on how to stay safe in winter conditions as well as on local community services.

peratures were -10 C or colder for two or more consecutive days.

expected to be at or below 0 C for two or more consecutive days and

overnight temperatures are forecast are at or below -5 C, the city’s emergency operations centre will engage with local service providers to open warming spaces where and when it’s practical to do so.

“This includes seeking expense authorization to allow for flow through funding from the province to operators to support activation,” Depenau said. Previously, warming centres were

two or more straight days and forecasts predict daily highs dropping day-overday for three or more straight days.

It can also happen when Environment Canada issues an extreme cold warning.

Depenau said that by adjusting these criteria, “service providers and administration may find efficiencies in administering the extreme weather response program reducing the number of activation and deactivation cycles

city would need to notify the public about cold weather conditions throughout basically the entire winter and could risk people tuning it out.

Depenau said the new thresholds will allow the city to find some administrative efficiencies and put the city in line with provincial recommendations. He said they didn’t know yet whether this would result in the city having to spend more money.

Ultimately, he said the changes should lead to more consistency and to more overnight and daytime warming spaces being made available. He added that many municipalities in BC are moving towards 0 C thresholds.

Coun. Cori Ramsay asked whether social service providers were consulted before the thresholds were changed, saying she was concerned that they might not be reimbursed by the province for opening warming centres more frequently.

Depenau he couldn’t speak to conversations the team had before the changes were made, but that feedback from service providers has been positive thus far.

Coun. Trudy Klassen asked for a brief overview of the warming centres that

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

The sun rises over 15th Avenue and the city’s snow dump on Saturday, Feb. 15. The city is taking steps to help people avoid cold conditions this winter.

Draft city budget proposes 5.98 per cent tax increase

The City of Prince George’s budget talks are the better part of two months away, but documents set to be presented to the Standing Committee on Finance and Audit at its Wednesday, Dec. 3 meeting show that staff are eyeing a property tax increase just shy of six per cent for 2026.

On the agenda for the meeting, which took place after this edition of The Citizen was printed, were results from the city’s 2026 budget engagement efforts, a draft capital plan for 2026 through 2030 and operating budget guidelines for 2026 through 2028.

The operating budget document shows that administration will ask for the following funding levels for services in 2026:

• $134,451,807 for general operations, a $6,156,698 increase over 2025

• $11,000,000 for snow control, a $1 million increase over 2025

• $7,300,000 for road rehabilitation, a $300,000 increase over 2025

• $7,127,737 for infrastructure reinvestment, a $1,496,864 increase over 2025

In total, the city is looking to collect $159,879,545 in tax revenues in 2026 compared to $149,686,438 in 2025.

While that’s an increase of $10,193,107, the city is expecting around $1,239,544 in additional revenues from new developments coming online or assessment changes.

That means it needs to make up another $8,953,563 through a 5.98 per cent increase to property tax rates.

General operations include the vast majority of city services and expenses, only excluding off-street parking, snow control, solid waste, sewer, water and the district energy system.

The good news for snow control is that spending is expected to be below budget in 2025.

In the 2025 budget, city administration had requested a boost in the snow control budget from $10.3 million to $10.6 million, but looking for savings,

The draft City of Prince George 2026 budget includes projected snow control spending of $11,000,000, up $1 million from 2025.

city council rolled the dice in search of savings and shaved it down to a flat $10 million in hopes that it wouldn’t come back to bite them.

The operating budget report states that, to date, the city has only spent $5,911,890 on snow control and by the end of 2025, total expenses of $9,309,687 are forecast.

The report said that administration is recommending the boost to $11 million in 2026 to keep pace with inflationary pressures like wages, contracted services, fuel and other costs.

When it comes to road rehabilitation work, the report said that city administration estimates that to service the same amount of lane kilometres Prince George did in 2025, it will cost four per cent more.

That’s why the requested amount increased by $300,000 for 2026.

Under the city’s sustainable finance policy, each year’s tax levy is increased by one per cent with the proceeds going

in revenues from fees and charges, a $341,000 increase in revenue from the fire operations communication centre for 911 dispatch and $272,751 in recoveries from other internal funds.

However, there’s also an expected $98,852 drop in revenue due to grantsin-lieu and revenue sharing agreements and a projected $1.82 million drop in investment revenue.

There are also early estimates for expected tax increase requests for future years. At this point, administration is predicting a tax increase of 5.74 per cent in 2027 and 5.1 per cent in 2028.

The 5.98 per cent tax increase, if approved, would mean an increase of around $174.74 increase to the representative household in Prince George. In 2025, the representative household had an assessed property value of $453,777. If that increase is approved, it would be the lowest increase since 2022. Here are the last five years of approved tax increases for reference:

• 2025: 6.21 per cent

• 2024: 6.78 per cent

• 2023: 7.58 per cent

• 2022: three per cent

towards the maintenance not covered under other categories.

With a one per cent increase in 2026, the total request for the general infrastructure tax levy is around $7.1 million.

A chart in the report shows the expected increase in expenses from 2025 to 2026. The largest increase is in staff salaries and benefits at around $3.2 million, followed by an almost $2 million increase in the cost of the city’s RCMP contract.

The document notes that with the Moccasin Flats court case concluded, Prince George expects a $190,000 drop in legal fees in 2026.

There are three categories for the draft budget where expenses are set to decrease: a $633,705 drop to debt servicing, a $23,600 drop in natural gas costs and a $3,400 drop in one-time expenses.

On top of the non-market tax base growth discussed earlier, administration is projecting a $1.6 million increase

• 2021: zero per cent

City administration will also bring forward several service enhancements for council’s consideration in January, including:

• Increasing police support services staff by four positions at a cost of $398,476

• Hiring 12 firefighters at a cost of $1,588,248

• Hiring four bylaw officers at a cost of $459,276

• Hiring a recruitment and retention advisor at a cost of $135,421

• Hiring a heritage planner at a cost of $124,792

If all of those enhancements were approved by council, it would boost the required tax increase by an additional 1.81 per cent to a total of 7.79 per cent. The 2026 council budget meetings are currently scheduled for Monday, Jan. 26 and Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. Both meetings are scheduled to start at 1 p.m.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

PLAN TO BID — BIDDING STARTS SATURDAY, DEC. 6TH!

OPINION

Deal to save pipelines money will cost you more

KENNEDY GORDON Citizen Managing Editor

The province of BC is considering changing how pipelines are valued by BC Assessment, which could result in a reduction by up to 30 per cent.

As the light industrial properties in Prince George learned this year with increases of up to 25 per cent, changes in your BC Assessment valuations impact how much property tax you pay.

If Premier David Eby follows through on the recommendations, the result will be a reduction in the value of all pipelines in BC, and thus a reduction in the amount of property tax that is being paid by pipeline companies.

Great for the pipeline companies and their investors, not so great for the taxpayers in the province, including those of us in the Regional District of Fraser Fort George, which includes Prince George.

That reduction in property taxes for pipelines will have to be picked up by someone, and for our region, that is going to be the residents of Prince George.

Pipelines run through six of the seven electoral districts of our Regional District. They include Coastal GasLink, Trans Mountain Pipeline, Westcoast Pipeline, and Enbridge Gas Pipelines.

The property taxes levied on these pipelines help pay for the operating and capital costs for our Regional District, including projects such as the new surgical tower.

BC Assessment’s valuations are

meant to represent the value of your property based upon recent sales or construction.

With the recent Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion, we have a very real current valuation for a pipeline. This is a project where the anticipated cost for construction of $7.4 billion ballooned to $34.2 billion by the time it was completed.

If BC Assessment were to value pipelines the same as they value your home or commercial property, it would result in the value of all existing pipelines seeing a significant increase in value, and pipeline companies would be paying more in property taxes.

It begs the question of why an NDP government is looking to help pipelines save money so that homeowners can pay more?

Municipalities and regional districts across the province, but especially in the North, are finding it more challenging to deliver the services that their residents are asking for, while having very few options other than property taxes to raise the funds required to deliver those services.

The exception for this is the communities in the Peace Region and the communities from Vanderhoof to Prince Rupert who, thanks to successive provincial governments including the current NDP government, have agreed to participate in Fair Share agreements.

These agreements share the provincial tax revenue from natural resource projects with the communities where the workers for these projects live.

However, Prince George and the Regional District of Fraser Fort George

are not part of those agreements. The failure of our previous mayor and council to join the Resource Benefit Alliance along Highway 16 West as it lobbied for a fair share agreement was misconduct beyond comprehension.

With Ottawa and Alberta having reached a memorandum of understanding to pursue another oil pipeline through BC to the provinces coast — although it still needs environmental and First Nations review — BC Assessment will have yet another pipeline for price comparison, one that will again be far above the amount at which current pipelines are being assessed.

BC Finance Minister Brenda Bailey needs to step in and ensure that the proposed reduction in valuations for BC pipelines does not proceed.

Reducing the assessed value of pipelines by 23 to 30 per cent will result in a significant tax shift to residential and commercial properties at a time when Prince George and our region are already having to shoulder the cost of our new surgical tower.

Unfortunately, mayor and council have been missing in action, seeming not to have grasped the impact of reducing the value of pipelines will have on our community.

Like with the missed opportunity to be part of the Fair Share agreements, and lack of interest in pursuing them even now, it will be the local taxpayers who lose out and end up paying the price.

editor@pgcitizen.ca

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CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

Property owners, including in light industrial zones, may pay more in property tax if the province goes ahead with tax breaks for pipeline companies.

Cameron Stolz Owner / Publisher Terresa Randall-Stolz Owner

We acknowledge the financial support of the government of Canada.

reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

Kennedy Gordon Managing Editor

There’s a dark reality behind the latest fires at the Flats

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

“Where’s my daughter, you f---! Give her back! I want her back!”

A fire was set at the Lower Patricia Boulevard encampment early Friday, Nov. 28 near the fifth wheel trailer located right behind the Citizen building.

Some of us here at the paper start our workday long before the sun comes up, and with the encampment right behind us I’ve seen things I can’t unsee.

On Friday morning, around 6:18 a.m., I was first alerted to the presence of a man and woman there by the woman’s screams, which I could hear through my window.

They were outside the trailer that has been parked there for several months, sometimes occupied.

The woman first lit a shopping cart on fire that continued to burn throughout the entire incident.

The man that was with her found a tire iron and tried smashing the window and door of the trailer to gain entry as the woman continued to shout.

As the woman continued to build her fire the man finally gained entry into the trailer.

Lheidli T’enneh pesticide ban called a progressive decision

I woke up to the incredible/ fantastic news that the Lheidli T’enneh have banned herbicide use on their traditional territory.

The ban includes glyphosphate (Roundup) and other herbicides. Their traditional territory extends from Prince George to Valemount, including the Robson Valley, the adjacent Rocky and Cariboo Mountain Ranges and the watershed of the upper Fraser River.

Much of it is shared with one or more other First Nations, such as the Secwepemc (Shuswap).

The herbicides are causing major

A woman shouting for the return of her daughter sets fires outside a trailer at Moccasin Flats on Friday, Nov. 28 at about 6:18 a.m. A second person was with her.

There was nobody there and he exited the trailer quickly.

After the call ended with the kind emergency services guy, I headed outside.

There’s a big fence between me and the trailer so I felt safe enough.

That’s when I heard the words she was saying.

“Where’s my daughter, you f---! Give her back! I want her back.”

LETTERS EDITOR to the

ecological damage, as well as poisoning fish, wildlife and human beings.

I thank Chief Dolleen Logan and council for this progressive decision that the provincial government seems incapable of making, despite evidence of great harm from the chemicals.

Roy Howard Dunster

Ask council candidates what they’ll do to get doctors here

Re: Attracting more doctors should be someone’s full-time job

Most people know that health care

Through my connections in the community I have heard rumours that there was a sex trafficker that used to live in the fifth wheel so when I heard those heartbreaking words it all came together.

As I watched the woman continue to build a bigger and bigger fire as she screamed for her daughter, something changed. My perspective.

And it might sound strange but I

is mainly run by the province. They decide how the system works and where doctors go.

After that, it’s Northern Health’s job to bring doctors into our area, not city council’s or the province’s.

Normally, that makes sense. City councils aren’t set up to go out and recruit doctors.

But things aren’t normal right now. A lot of people can’t find a family doctor, clinics are closing and our emergency care feels stretched all the time.

In a situation like this, most people don’t really care which level of government is supposed to do what. They just want the problem fixed.

As you said, the city needs to step in

started to root for her.

I know, I shouldn’t say that because she was breaking the law, but isn’t that something we all wish we could do?

Cause massive destruction aimed at the perpetrator who caused massive pain?

The woman’s sense of desperation and helplessness radiated from her and I felt it from where I was standing up against the fence maybe 40 feet away from the incident as I was trying to get photos, because what happened was news.

It wasn’t long before fire engine sirens could be heard in the distance.

But it was only when the man and woman could see the truck’s flashing lights that they fled the scene.

The flames in the shopping cart continued to blaze but the fire on the ground was just embers.

By the time the emergency services crew arrived on scene there wasn’t much left to do but wait it out.

So, yeah, this is “just another Moccasin Flats fire.”

But the reason behind it is a bigger issue than any blaze that heartbroken mother could’ve set that morning.

Christine Dalgleish is a Citizen features reporter.

more. Even if council can’t hire doctors directly, it can speak up for the community and sell it to skilled doctors who will want to come here to help solve the crisis.

With next year’s municipal election coming up, people running for council and mayor should make this a big part of their campaign.

Voters should look for candidates who take this issue seriously and have real ideas about helping, and vote for those people.

Our community needs leaders who won’t just point fingers but will actually try to make things better.

Elise Anderson

Prince George

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHRISTINE DALGLEISH

OPINION

Editorial: Big politics, big projects ... with one glaring problem

The problem is, while all levels of government simultaneously wish to increase our population, because we need more tax revenue to support our country and communities. They are simultaneously sabotaging industry, that has classically supported this country.

The NDP stopped construction on Site C, when they were voted in. All for the sake of a performative “review” to appease their voter base in the lower mainland.

Same reason they are opposed to helping our neighbours and the wealthy oil and gas industry that employs hundreds of thousands.

The glaring problem with this, it doesn’t matter where oil and gas come from, it will flow, because the market demands it. So why wouldn’t we reap the rewards?

Or should we rely on Arab princes to provide the world with oil and gas? With their ethics and environmentalism?

And I don’t have my head in the sand, like some, who wish to deny the environmental impact, but it’s just the reality.

Zangief

Editorial: Attracting more doctors should be someone’s full-time job

I agree, we are sliding under the turbulent waters in the PG medical system and as a newly minted senior, whose doctor is the same age as me, I am getting worried. I experienced a practice closure and reassignment in 2021; at least we got moved to another doctor that time. I doubt that we will be that lucky if he does retire in the next few years.

Everything is a two-plus year wait now. Cataracts, orthopaedic surgery, hernia surgery, pain clinic, it’s all a long waiting list to be navigated and struggle through the time on these lists. I truly believe that the longer we wait, the more we cost to fix — like car maintenance. How do we fix this — that I don’t know, but something has to be done to make our medical system functional again.

HJMSPG

Editorial: Attracting more doctors should be someone’s full-time job

An additional recruitment officer risks becoming another taxpayer drain. Northern Health already has a recruitment department, and many specialties have at least one physician doing recruitment work.

The core issues are twofold: First, most physicians prefer to live down south, and the incentive to come north simply aren’t enough.

A physician in Prince George might earn roughly $40k more per year in rural premiums than they would in the Lower Mainland.

But on a $425k-plus income, that isn’t enough to change behaviour. An additional $75,000–$125,000 per year, tied to a 3–5 year return-ofservice would probably help recruitment.

Second, current locum rates are absurd. A physician can earn twice as much doing locum work as they can working regular contracted shifts. As long as that gap exists, it will be extremely difficult to stabilize permanent staffing. These are policy failures that the provincial government, Doctors of BC and, Northern Health have been slow to recognize and address.

Perham

Here is a back-of-napkin way to reduce the additional revenue required by over $1 million. When there were two homeless camps downtown the province paid for two street social workers.

When the grants expired the city in their infinite wisdom added these people to the already bloated payroll. Both camps are closed and BC housing has counsellors making them redundant. Savings: $250K.

The has said they plan to hire three additional arborists and spend $750k in machinery for them.

How many arborists does the city currently have? Why do they need to hire three all at once?

Why the sudden need for the new equipment, what are they using now.

This new staffing needs to be put on hold until it can be properly justified. Savings: $750K-plus.

Barely scratched the surface but a deeper dive could easily bring the tax increase to zero per cent like what has been proposed in Vancouver

Tax increases of 24 per cent over five years is not sustainable going forward and the sooner waste is eliminated the less painful it will be.

Bobs your uncle

Draft city budget proposes 5.98 per cent tax increase

Nechako Bottle Depot opens in new Gunn Road spot

The recyling centre’s longtime First Avenue building burned down two months ago

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

A little more than sixty days have passed since a structure fire claimed the former location of the Nechako Bottle Depot on First Avenue.

The fire broke out at about 5 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28. There were no injuries, but the building was destroyed.

Now the Nechako Bottle Depot is back on its feet and welcoming customers and their returns.

A recent Facebook post from the depot announced the reopening at its new location at 2895 Gunn Rd.

“Losing our old location was a huge shock,” the post reads. “Saying the past 60+ days have been tough is an understatement — but your support has been nothing short of inspiring! Thank you.”

The location is still finding its footing, with paint, hazardous materials, flammable materials and electronics drop-offs being temporarily suspended.

However, bottles, cans and containers as well as electronics are still available for processing.

Co-owner Rick Neufield told The Citizen that it was incredibly important to them to resume their services to the public in Prince George and has made their re-opening a priority.

“The new location was chosen was the absolute closest location we could get that we thought would serve our needs and could deal with the public the best,” said Neufield.

“That’s the only reason. It was just important to all of us to carry on to get back into business as soon as possible and do what we do and serve the public and that’s what we’re all about.”

The majority of former staff members are resuming their positions as well, with Neufield noting that more will be re-hired in the near future.

“We have rehired probably 70 per cent

of the existing staff, said Neufield. “Once we’re up and running at full speed, we hope to bring everyone back. We’ve got a pretty good group of people and we want to get everybody back. Good people are not to be taken for granted, they’re to be enjoyed and we will try to get everybody back as soon as we can.”

He also wanted to thank the local people who helped get the location back on its feet through various donations.

“The nature of our business is all about volume, “said Neufield. “We had a bunch of good quality people, local guys that just stood up and said, hey, you know, this isn’t just business. We’re here to help.”

The new location is open Mondays through Saturdays from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. It’s closed on Sundays and all statutory holidays.

While there may be some adjustments as the new location gets up and running, Neufield explains that they are quickly getting back to regular operations.

“We might not be able to serve people as quickly or as many people as we have in the past, but we’re doing our best to get there,” said Neufield. “Bottle drives and everything, bring it on. We will take it all and deal with it as quickly as we can. We’ve been doing this with the community for over 25 years. it might take us a little bit of time to get back to where we were, but we’re not far off.”

The fire broke out at about 5 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28 at the warehouse-type structure, a bottle return facility located beside the train tracks on First Avenue. Nineteen firefighters from four halls were called in.

There was almost nothing left of the building by 6 a.m.

Later, Fire Chief Bryan Burleigh told reporters that he had begun working with insurance investigators and there would be an investigation into the origin of the fire, concurrent with an RCMP investigation that is ongoing, Burleigh said.

Learn more about the new location at www.nechakobottledepot.ca

CITIZEN PHOTO BY MATTHEW HILLIER

Two months after a fire destroyed its First Avenue home, the Nechako Bottle Depot has reopened at 2895 Gunn Rd.

Operation Red Nose gets people back home safely

Organization could use more volunteer drivers over this holiday season

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

Operation Red Nose, operated by the Rotary Club of Prince George-Nechako and partnered with ICBC, is almost ready to help drivers across Prince George get home safely this Christmas and New Year’s.

The program, which has been running for more than two decades in Prince George and other communities across Canada, began Friday, Nov. 28. Its goal is to get people who’ve been drinking home safely, along with their vehicles.

“I’ve been a volunteer for 15 years and it’s just, it’s a great community service,” said Dolly Hilton, president-elect of the

Rotary Club of Prince George-Nechako and Operation Red Nose chair. “We know there are people out there who shouldn’t be driving. You’re out partying and you’ve brought your car downtown and you think, ‘Oh, I can drive home,’ and you shouldn’t, but they just really want to get the car home. I think that’s basically where that program started — just to make sure that people

get home safely with their vehicles.”

The program is entirely run by volunteers and depends on them to provide ride-home services to an entire city on the days mentioned below.

Teams of three, including an escort driver, a navigator and a client driver, will pick up both passengers and their cars and take them home regardless of circumstances.

More than 60 volunteers from the Rotary Club, operating out of the ICBC location on 15th Avenue, will be on standby on the following dates:

• Friday, Dec. 5

• Saturday, Dec. 6

• Friday, Dec. 12

• Saturday, Dec. 13

• Friday, Dec. 19

• Saturday, Dec. 20

• Wednesday, Dec. 31

People who need a ride should call 250-962-7433 on those dates.

“We do still need volunteers, especially on New Year’s,” said Hilton. “We always have a heavier night on New Year’s … last year we had about 100 by the end of the season. So we’re still looking … It’s all volunteer-driven. It’s all volunteer-based. Without the volunteers, we don’t have a program.”

Last year, volunteers provided 412 rides to those in Prince George, with 74 on New Year’s alone.

More than 2.4 million rides have been provided to people in BC over the program’s 30 years.

Hilton said a highlight for her is seeing community volunteers return year after year to help get people in Prince George

home safe.

“Part of it is just meeting the same volunteers year after year,” said Hilton. “There’ll be lots of people that I haven’t seen since last year … It’s gotten to be quite a big camaraderie between all of the volunteers. A lot of them just really look forward to seeing the other volunteers that they haven’t seen for the last year. I know last year, (a volunteer) was driving a client’s car home and someone almost ran into them. Realistically, if the client had been driving — he wasn’t overly intoxicated — but if he had been driving, he might not have had the foresight to miss that other vehicle.”

Operation Red Nose isn’t just committed to getting party-goers in Prince George home safe. Organizers are also proud to help support youth programs across the city, thanks to the help of various sponsors and donations.

“All of the cash that we raise goes to youth programs,” said Hilton. “We also receive donations for the rides. It is a free ride service; if someone doesn’t have any cash or any means to get home with their vehicle, then we will take them home for free, but most people do donate to Operation Red Nose. We take those funds and those are part of the pool that we use to supply funding for youth programs in Prince George.”

Supported programs include 4-H, Prince George Nighthawks, Prince George Kodiak football team and Inner City Boxing, just to name a few.

To learn more or to sign up to be a volunteer this season, visit www.ornpg. ca/Home.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY MARK NIELSEN

Operation Red Nose will drive people home if they’ve been drinking, with a second volunteer following in the person’s own vehicle.

More jail time for woman who stabbed shelter worker

BOB MACKIN Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Judge Michael Brecknell sentenced a 23-year-old woman Nov. 28 to another 50 days in jail for stabbing a man at the front desk of the Mark’s Place Shelter in Prince George last New Year’s Day.

The official Provincial Court sentence for Shenoa Rose Thomas is 18 months in jail and 18 months probation for assault with a weapon and breach of probation.

The Crown, which wanted a two-year sentence, stayed the charge of assault causing bodily harm.

However, Thomas had already spent 331 days in custody, which qualified her for the time-and-a-half credit of 497 days.

That left 50 days to serve.

Brecknell said the law required him to consider the least-onerous form of punishment, particularly as it applies to an Indigenous offender like Thomas.

“But I also have to keep in mind that Thomas’s history suggests that she just does not accept that she has to operate within norms of society,” Brecknell said.

Thomas had been asked by the man working at the front desk, a refugee

Caregiver stole baby formula

BOB MACKIN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A Prince George Provincial Court judge gave a man with a lengthy criminal record a suspended sentence after he pleaded guilty to stealing baby formula from a Save-On-Foods store in the city.

Zackary William Edward Isaac, 38, had been charged with theft under $5,000 for the March 19 incident at the Hart Shopping Centre location.

Police were alerted at 2:50 p.m. that day to surveillance footage showing Isaac choosing the items and concealing them in a green shopping bag.

The eight containers were worth about $300.

On Thursday, Nov. 27, court heard that Isaac was taking care of a baby that day and did not have food or money, so he went to the store and stole the items.

Due to that mitigating circumstance,

Crown and defence lawyers proposed the suspended sentence with a 12-month probation order that includes a condition for Isaac to stay away from Save-On-Foods stores in BC.

Court heard that Isaac had five prior theft convictions between 2018 and 2024. Isaac had a career in event production until he developed an opiate addiction.

“Although his record is extensive, he’s managed to stay out of trouble and that’s a bright spot for him,” said Judge Martin Nadon.

“The expectation is he will continue to do so, and so I am going to go along with the joint submission.”

Last June, Nadon sentenced Isaac to one day, time served for spitting at a Prince George Regional Correctional Centre guard on July 8, 2024. Nadon called it an egregious form of assault because of the possibility of transmission of disease by bodily fluid.

top of the shoulder. Luckily, his quick reaction left him with a minor injury.

Brecknell said Thomas has a criminal record dating back to 2017 with numerous assaults, arsons and attempted robberies.

But she also has cognitive difficulties and is a significant abuser of substances.

An expert assessment deemed her a high risk to reoffend.

Brecknell said that 50 days should be a sufficient time to wait for a vacancy to enter the Red Fish Healing Centre for Mental Health and Addiction in Coquitlam, on the grounds of the former Riverview asylum campus.

from Nigeria, to leave because she had broken the rules by smoking in her room.

Thomas left, but returned a few hours later with a knife that she concealed. She proceeded to stab the man in the

When Thomas pleaded guilty on July 29, court heard that she had used heroin and crystal meth at age 12. While in Colony Farm in Port Coquitlam for a mental fitness assessment in 2024, she attacked and assaulted two female psychiatric nurses, one of whom was pregnant.

A woman who stabbed a man at a local shelter will spend another 50 days behind bars.

Murderer charged with breaching a release order

Zain Xavier Wood was convicted earlier this month

BOB MACKIN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The man convicted of first-degree murder on Nov. 10 is scheduled to return to Provincial Court on Dec. 17 to fix a date for a hearing on a charge of breaching a release order.

Zain Xavier Wood’s charge stems from July 18, 2023, the same day he invaded the Alpine Village home of ex-girlfriend Isabelle Thomas.

Wood stabbed Thomas 16 times, fled and discarded the murder weapon.

BC Supreme Court Justice Michael Tammen deemed the killing planned and deliberate.

Wood faces an automatic life sentence without parole eligibility for 25 years.

Before Judge David Simpkin on Nov.

A man convicted of second-degree murder will now face a charge of breaching a release order.

25, Crown prosecutor Rodney Withall said “any sentence on this breach would be insignificant in comparison.”

“Essentially, the Crown’s interest at this point is upholding the integrity of the bail system,” Withall told Simpkin.

“Essentially, looking for an entering of a plea and then movement towards an

estreatment hearing with respect to the $10,000 bail that Wood was on when he committed the breach, but also committed the homicide.”

Tony Lagemaat, Wood’s defence lawyer, proposed the Dec. 17 hearing.

Tammen did not believe Wood’s claim that he simply wanted to steal

Thomas’s PlayStation video game system in order to pay a legal bill. He went so far as to call Wood’s testimony a web of lies designed to avoid criminal culpability.

The Supreme Court case was adjourned to Nov. 27 to schedule an expected two-day sentencing hearing.

No injuries in Hart trailer fire

CITIZEN PHOTO BY MATTHEW HILLIER

Wildwood Mobile

Probation for teen involved in masked theft of liquor

One teenager held the store’s door while two others grabbed bottles of alcohol

BOB MACKIN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A 14-year-old boy with no prior criminal record was sentenced Nov. 26 to a conditional discharge and oneyear probation after pleading guilty to stealing liquor.

The teen, who cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and two others wore medical masks to the Noble Spirits Liquor Store on March 2.

One youth held the door open while the other two stole liquor.

Court heard that one of the males who fled dropped a backpack that contained four bottles of vodka: two Smirnoff and one each of Finlandia and Pink Whitney.

The youth who remained on scene was the one before the court. Judge Cassandra Malfair accepted the joint Crown and defence sentence proposal.

Evidence before Malfair said the First Nations youth had been in foster care since age 12 due to his parents’ substance abuse. He is now seeing a counsellor and no longer going absent without leave from his foster home.

Malfair encouraged him to “stay away from” alcohol.

“If you think about how that’s impacted your family, is that a road you really want to go down for you?” Malfair said.

Malfair said the boy expresses a desire to finish school and have a productive life, so rehabilitation is the paramount sentencing principle in his case.

“With a little bit of application, you have a very positive life in front of you, and hopefully this will all be in the rear view mirror,” Malfair said.

Stealing $15 necklace lands teen probation, ban from stores

A Provincial Court judge reprimanded a 15-year-old who stole a $14.99 necklace from the Spruceland Mall Save-OnFoods and sentenced him to one-year probation on Nov. 26.

The boy, who cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, entered the store on Feb. 12, put the necklace in his hoodie pocket and left the store without paying.

Prince George RCMP arrested and released him on an undertaking.

Judge Cassandra Malfair was told that the boy had been in foster care since he was about four or five years old.

He was sentenced last June for a previous theft that occurred in September 2024 and other offences, resulting in a 15-month probation order and deferred custody and supervision order.

But he breached the latter order and the sentence was converted into a custodial supervision order on Oct. 31.

He appeared by video conference for the Nov. 26 hearing from Burnaby Youth Custody Services, where he is scheduled to remain until Dec. 9.

“I reprimand you for the commission of the offence, I trust you’ve learned from this experience, and I expect you to refrain from further offences in the future,” Malfair said.

She also banned the teen from all Save-On-Foods in Prince George.

BOB MACKIN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Alcohol products line the shelves of an unidentified liquor store in this

photo. Three teens grabbed bottles of alcohol from a local store on March 2.

Former teacher to face three trials at once, judge rules

Alfred Patrick Quigley stands accused of grooming, abuse

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

Three liability trials against a former Prince George school teacher, Roman Catholic dioceses and schools will take place at the same time, according to an associate judge’s Nov. 24 ruling.

The plaintiffs in the three BC Supreme Court actions allege Alfred Patrick Quigley sexually groomed and abused them while he was employed at St. Ann’s Academy in Kamloops from 1995 to 2014.

They applied to the court to have the

trials heard with each other prior to their damages claims. They estimated each would need 25 days for a separate trial, but a common trial on liability would take 30 days.

Lawyers for the defendants argued that the allegations should be heard separately because “the issues are uncommon and not sufficiently interwoven to justify having the claims heard together,” said Associate Judge Kimberley Robertson’s reasons for judgment.

Robertson wrote that default judgment has been taken against Quigley in each of the actions and no discoveries or trial dates have been scheduled.

“The plaintiffs do indicate that they currently intend to file a notice requiring trial by jury,” Robertson wrote.

Robertson ruled that the trial judge will have discretion and determination as to evidence admissibility and may decide the trials be held separately.

In ordering the liability trials at the same time, Robertson expressed concern to the parties that “such an order is effectively no order at all given the uncertainty it creates.”

But it will allow the plaintiffs to proceed to scheduling.

“While I appreciate that this may bring uncertainty when the trial commences, as noted, that is a risk the plaintiffs appear willing to take,” Robertson wrote. “To order anything more definitive at this stage, however, could improperly impact the trial judge’s ability to deal with these admissibility issues.”

Quigley is a former Christian Brothers teacher who worked from 1990 to 1995 at O’Grady High School in Prince George. He also taught from 1970 to 1971 at Vancouver College and 1972 to 1980 at St. Thomas More Collegiate (STM) in Burnaby.

In February, the Diocese of Prince George and STM avoided a civil trial in BC Supreme Court and settled with an alleged victim for $3.4 million.

The Diocese of Prince George, O’Grady and STM claimed in their defence statements that they were unaware of Quigley’s misconduct and denied they were negligent.

Quigley denied the allegations, did not show up for pre-trial questioning by the plaintiff’s lawyer and has not been criminally charged.

Defence lawyer quits in middle of drug, weapons trial

He told court it was for ‘unspecified ethical reasons’

The lawyer for a man on trial in Prince George for drug and weapons possession quit on Nov. 24 for unspecified ethical reasons.

Terry La Liberté told BC Supreme Court Justice Lisa Hamilton that he had “encountered an insurmountable ethical issue that I cannot resolve” and his only option was to withdraw as defence lawyer for Kerridge Andrew Lowley.

Lowley pleaded not guilty to charges of possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking and possession of weapons when the trial began on Monday, Nov. 3.

La Liberté said he sought advice from senior colleagues on the matter but did not offer any details to Hamilton.

“It’s unfortunate, but given counsel has an insurmountable ethical issue, the application to withdraw is granted,”

Hamilton said.

“It goes no further than that.”

Hamilton adjourned the trial until Dec. 8 for a scheduling hearing.

La Liberté suggested that may not be enough time for Lowley, 50, to find a new lawyer.

La Liberté’s last action in court on behalf of Lowley was to dispute a prosecutor’s recent decision to show certain video evidence. La Liberté said it “would affect the entire operation of the case.”

Federal Crown prosecutor Mansi Khajuria told Hamilton that all the video footage was disclosed last January to the defence, but she did not indicate the specific file to show in court until last week.

Earlier this year, La Liberté represented Lowley in an aggravated assault and break-and-enter trial in BC Supreme Court.

A judge acquitted Lowley and co-accused Dakota Rayn Keewatin on March 3.

The 2022 incident began as a dispute over a drug debt and ended with a grisly machete attack at a Prince George motel.

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

Kerridge Andrew Lowley is accused of possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking and possession of weapons.

109 YEARS OF NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED JOURNALISM

LOCALLY OWNED • COMMUNITY FOCUSED

The Citizen has been building something special since February 2024 — not just a locally owned newspaper, but a stronger connection between local businesses and the community they serve.

At the heart of that effort is our advertising sales team, a group whose energy, creativity and dedication help make everything we do possible.

Today, we want to celebrate them — and the businesses who trust them.

Every day, our sales representatives sit down with business owners, community groups and entrepreneurs to understand their goals and help them reach our many thousands of readers in meaningful ways.

They don’t just place ads — they design fullservice solutions:

• Print display ads in our 23,000-copy weekly paper

• Digital advertising on the rapidly growing pgcitizen.ca

• Listings and exposure in our comprehensive business directory

• Targeted visibility in our many specialty publications

Their work amplifies local voices and strengthens the backbone of Prince George’s economy.

Because of the advertisers who partner with us — and the team who supports them — we’ve been able to expand our newsroom, grow our circulation, and add new publications to better reflect the communities we serve from Prince George to Mackenzie and all the way west to Prince Rupert.

Each year, our roster of special editions grows, giving local businesses even more opportunities to stand out. From the Readers’ Choice Awards and the BC Special Olympics feature to Taste, Fishing in the North, Shop PG, the Holiday Gift Guide, our Industry and Trades quarterly, and UNBC’s Over the Edge, our sales team works tirelessly to connect advertisers with the right audiences.

And in 2026, we’ll add a brand-new Municipal Election edition to help businesses reach an exceptionally engaged readership.

Online, our growth has been remarkable. With monthly page views now consistently between 1.5 and 1.7 million, the digital advertising our team provides has become one

of the most effective ways for local businesses to reach customers. Their expertise has helped turn pgcitizen.ca into a high-impact platform for marketing across Northern BC. These achievements — along with the national journalism awards The Citizen brought home this year — reflect a simple truth: when local businesses thrive, local journalism thrives with them.

To our advertisers: thank you for putting your confidence in us.

To our sales team: thank you for putting your heart into every partnership. Together, you’ve made 2024 and 2025 years of growth, innovation and renewed community connection. And together, we’re carrying that momentum into 2026 and beyond. We’re locally owned, community focused, and proud to support the businesses that keep Prince George strong.

Left to right: Aaron Baumbach

Nel Niukhova

Wayne Dobson

Dana Young

Anthony Voitik

Pipeline assessment changes could affect taxpayers

Residential property owners could be left to make up the difference

COLIN SLARK Citizen Staff

A proposed change to how pipelines have their property values assessed could have major financial implications in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and leave taxpayers in the City of Prince George footing the bill.

Attached to the agenda of the district’s Thursday, Nov. 21 board of directors meeting was a letter from Thompson-Nicola Regional District chair Barbara Roden to provincial Finance Minister Brenda Bailey asking that proposed changes to how pipelines are assessed starting in 2026 be put on hold.

Roden said that the short-notice changes could lead to drops of between 23 and 30 per cent in the assessed value of pipeline lands within her district.

That could, in turn, lead to potential tax increases of up to 25 per cent for residential property owners in the district to make up for the lost revenue.

Discussing the letter and the potential impacts of the change at the Nov. 21 meeting, Fraser-Fort George chief administrative officer Chris Calder said there are pipelines going through six of the district’s seven rural electoral areas.

The only area that wouldn’t be affected is Electoral Area C (Chilako River-Nechako). The Coastal Gaslink liquified natural gas pipelines and the Trans Mountain oil pipeline both pass through Fraser-Fort George as the former goes to Kitimat on the North Coast and the latter goes to Burnaby in the Lower Mainland.

“Others do see an impact ranging from around 16 per cent decreases up to about 29 or 30 per cent decreases in the utility class,” Calder said.

“On a region-wide basis, we have that pegged at around a two per cent shift in assessment across the region. With certain areas picking up a little bit more (of

the burden), the City of Prince George definitely picks up the larger share just given the large size of assessments.”

The electoral areas hardest hit would be G (Crooked River-Parsnip) and H (Robson Valley-Canoe).

In the regional district, taxpayers only contribute towards services that directly benefit them. Calder said that in the rural electoral areas with pipelines, where there are fewer properties under the heavy industrial classes, the tax burden would shift onto residents and businesses.

Calder said these estimates are based on a preview assessment roll that were recently made available to the regional district. The final assessment roll will be made available early in the new year.

After Calder and director of finance

Sarah White outlined the picture, Director Dannielle Alan (Robson Valley-Canoe) didn’t mince words when expressing her displeasure.

“I find it beyond offensive that a senior would have to make a choice between getting their life’s simple pleasures — coffee or tea — or having to pay an extra tax bill because a pipeline needs more money in their billionaire pockets,” Alan said.

“I find it incredibly offensive that a family has to choose between paying their taxes or being able to pay for kids’ activities.”

Director Owen Torgerson, the mayor of Valemount, said that the Trans Mountain Corporation is planning to apply to the Canada Energy Regulator for permission to install a drag reduction system that would increase their capacity by 350,000 to 380,000 barrels of oil per day.

That, he said, means to him that Alberta to BC pipeline should be worth even more.

“I appreciate that BC Assessment is technically an independent body of the province, but really it’s financed by the Ministry of Finance,” Torgerson said.

“This same government who used every tool in the toolbox to stop the (Trans Mountain project) is not using every tool in the toolbox to get a full realization of taxation.”

Director Jerrilyn Kirk (Crooked River-Parsnip) said that taxpayers would end up blaming the board for raising their taxes when it was a decision that was out of directors’ hands.

She asked if a note explaining the situation could be attached to residents’ tax notices.

Calder said mailers are sent out with tax notices explaining the district’s major initiatives and this would qualify as something important enough to include.

The board ultimately voted to approve sending a similar letter to the

one from TNRD to Bailey joining the call for postponement of the change.

That letter stated that the regional district was only made aware of the changes in mid-September, “despite the fact that BC Assessment has reportedly been considering this review since 2001.”

“The lack of any form of engagement and the brief timelines has left our board with limited opportunity to assess and prepare for the financial implications of this change in our 2026 budget,” said the letter.

“Gathering and transmission Pipelines represent a major source of taxation revenue within RDFFG electoral areas and member municipalities. The recent completion of major infrastructure projects, such as the Coastal Gaslink Pipeline and the Trans Mountain expansion has significantly increased the assessed value of this property class with utilities.

“In total, the utility class represents approximately 16 per cent of converted assessments in our Regional District.”

On top of Bailey, copies of the letter are also to be sent to Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Christine Boyle, all three MLAs representing the regional district, other regional districts, the Union of BC Municipalities and each of the municipalities within Fraser-Fort George.

HANDOUT PHOTO

The province is considering changing the way the properties holding pipelines are assessed for tax purposes.

Mackenzie sawmill announces four-week curtailment

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

Conifex Timber Inc. has announced that it will be temporarily curtailing operations at its Mackenzie sawmill for a planned four-week period beginning Dec. 15.

The company stated that one of the causes was continued weakness in North American lumber markets.

In particular, a drop in benchmark Western Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF) prices has been caused by several months of slowdown in new residential construction, soft repair-and-remodel activity, and elevated interest rates.

The mill has also been hit hard by the impact of recently increased countervailing and anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber shipped to the United States.

“The duty and tariff increases have significantly compressed cash margins across the sector and resulted in

A planned curtailment at Conifex Timber’s Mackenzie sawmill is expected to reduce Conifex’s production by approximately 13 million board feet.

operating losses for many producers,” the statement reads. “Against this backdrop, Conifex believes that temporarily reducing production is the best course of action to minimize operating losses. The curtailment, as planned, is expected to reduce Conifex’s production by approximately 13 million board feet.”

While Conifex is concerned about the short term, it believes the fundamentals for SPF lumber are positive in the medium and long term.

“Structural housing undersupply in

Integris merges with Coastal Community Credit Union

CITIZEN STAFF

Integris Credit Union members have voted in favour of merging with Coastal Community Credit Union, clearing the final hurdle in a year-long process that began with a memorandum of understanding in March and received regulatory approval from the BC Financial Services Authority in September.

The merger, set to take effect Jan. 1, will create one of the largest credit unions in BC, serving more than 110,000 members across the province.

Once combined, the merged credit union will employ roughly 800 people, operate 32 branches and manage approximately $5.6 billion in assets.

Coastal Community president and CEO Kent Jesse emphasized that while the organizations will form a single merged credit union, both brands will remain in place.

“Integris will be keeping their distinct brand and identity, and Coastal Community members will continue to enjoy the Coastal Community brand — we will be one merged credit union offering the same great values-driven service.”

Integris CEO Alison Hoskins highlighted the milestone represented by the member vote. “It has been an incredible journey to go from early discussions and the MOU signing, to finalizing the merger with the Integris member vote,” she said.

The next phase will focus on developing a detailed strategic and operating plan to guide the phased integration of systems and services. Both credit unions say they will continue operating independently in the meantime, with a commitment to minimizing disruptions for members. Updates will be shared through DoingMoreTogether.ca, as well as each credit union’s website.

the United States, an aging housing stock, and improving affordability conditions as interest rates normalize are expected to support a gradual recovery in demand beginning in the second half of 2026,” the statement reads.

Conifex also notes that curtailments across the industry have already driven North American lumber production to its lowest level in a decade, which it expects to help rebalance inventories and support a return to more sustainable pricing.

The company stated in a press release that despite the curtailment, it remains committed to the Mackenzie region. “While the decision to reduce our year-end operating schedules was difficult, and we regret the impact this will have on our employees, their families, and the community, we are encouraged by the fact that the Mackenzie TSA has the highest sawlog surplus of any TSA in the Interior region of BC,” said Andrew McLellan, president and COO of Conifex, in the announcement. “The recent federal announcement expanding the BDC Softwood Lumber Guarantee Program and providing additional support through the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan facility is an important step, and swift implementation will be critical to capturing the benefits of these programs. We do not anticipate any challenges securing sawlogs to maintain capacity operations in the future once market conditions permit a return to full operations.”

TOYS • COMICS • GAMES

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

How a cat on a pole in Hixon led to a hamper drive

Pay it forward, said the ex-lineman who came to the rescue

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

On a chilly November night, a frightened kitty was discovered high atop a power pole in the heart of a tiny hamlet just south of Prince George.

Word spread quickly through the community, and one brave soul answered the call from the damsel in distress asking for help for the poor wet creature.

As the clock ticked and the temperature dropped, Ryan Friesen came to the rescue.

(OK, so the young lady posted on social media and Friesen saw the post on Facebook.)

“When I saw the post I just thought ‘oh, geez,’ so I went and took a trip out and sure enough, there’s the cat up on the telephone pole just sitting up there terrified, cold and it’s starting to rain and it wouldn’t come down,” Friesen said.

He went home to get what he needed.

“So I went and grabbed my lineman ladder from home because I used to be a technician, so yup, I grabbed my ladder out of storage and went and got Mr. Meow Meows off the pole,” Friesen laughed.

“He was super friendly. I kinda worried I might have to get some oven mitts or something but no, I picked him up off the top of the pole and he snuggled right up in my jacket and I went and took him on down and put him in a little cat carrier and brought him home until I found the owner.”

The owner was thankful the cat was rescued and returned unharmed, he added.

Someone suggested in the Facebook post’s comments section that Friesen should charge for his cat rescue services, and he was quick to respond like any hero does.

“I just told them to pay it forward by donating to the Christmas Hamper fund,” Friesen said.

A census taken in 2021 reported the population in Hixon at 239 people, and there’s been no real population explosion, so it’s safe to say this is a small town with a big need.

Last year, the Hixon Christmas Hamper program had 39 requests from community members in need, and this year, so far, there have been 32 requests.

“We’re a pretty small town and we’re not a wealthy place either,” Friesen said.

“We have a lot of retirees and families and everyone is strapped with their budget these days. So any help we can get would be great.”

Debbie Schultz just took over the Hixon Christmas Hamper program from Lisa, who had been running it for about 13 years.

“And she took over from ladies who had been doing it for I don’t even know how many years,” Schultz said.

“They had it set up so Lisa could take over,” making the transition a smooth one, she added.

“And this is my first year and Lisa has it set up like a well-oiled machine,” Schultz said.

The people in need don’t mind reaching out to ask for help, she added.

“It’s not an embarrassing thing — I thought they might’ve been shy about it, but they’ve all been pretty great about just calling up and saying ‘hey, I usually get a hamper from Lisa, can I be on the list this year?’ and that’s awesome.”

Schultz wouldn’t want anyone left out, so she has a contingency plan to keep extras on hand for any last-minute requests after the Friday cutoff.

“We have requests coming from older single people who are retirees trying to live on a pension and about six or seven families with kids, so it seems to be mostly seniors,” Schultz said.

“To go in the hampers, I would like to see donations of treats, and I know one gentleman — he might be 80 — who asked me if there was any chance I could get him slippers, and it just about makes me cry telling you that.”

Schultz believes cash will go the furthest as far as donations are concerned.

“Because then I can go to town and

get what I need for the people,” Schultz said.

“When it’s a cash donation, it’s easier for me to know what we don’t have, but I would never turn away non-perishables because then I can just fill up their boxes with those donations. I’ve got all the fixings for Christmas dinner being donated by different people, including turkeys and ham, potatoes, cranberry sauce and stuffing. That’s already taken care of and it’s incredible and blowing my mind. And then beyond that, there are donation boxes around town here in Hixon that are getting filled up and I then have people coming up and just handing me cash, so that’s nice.”

Especially when people are asking for a pair of slippers as their treat because (spoiler!) Schultz already asked for the man’s shoe size and will get those slippers for him.

Schultz knows she probably won’t be able to cater to specifics for all the recipients but suggests that cookies, chocolates and crackers would be appreciated.

“That’s the kind of stuff people probably don’t buy because they are on such a tight budget,” Schultz noted.

“Looking at all the requests, I am definitely getting a bigger heart for this community. I did not realize that we had this kind of need in 2025. You know what I mean? It’s just crazy.”

Anyone looking to donate and receive a tax-deductible receipt can send a cheque of $10 or more to Hixon Lighthouse Church, re: Christmas Hampers, PO Box 91, Hixon, BC, V0K 1S0.

If people would like to donate in person, the Hixon Christmas Market takes place on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring local crafters and artists selling their wares. Santa Claus will make an appearance.

There will be games for children, Santa’s workshop, face and nail painting, hot chocolate by donation, pulled pork on a bun by donation, and entertainment by the church choir. The Christmas Hampers committee will also collect donations during the event, which is held at the Hixon Community Hall, 502 Hixon Subdivision Rd.

RYAN FRIESEN PHOTO

This cat is a long way from home as he sits on the top of a power pole in Hixon earlier this month. And then it started to rain. Ryan Friesen came to the rescue.

In Barkerville, Christmas is more like what it used to be

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

Barkerville Historic Town and Park is once again opening its gates for winter visitors of all ages for an Olde-Fashioned Christmas.

On Dec. 13 and 14, guests can expect a return of one of the area’s favourite holiday traditions, complete with sleigh rides, baking, decorations, caroling and much more.

Living programming will be available as well, with the well-known Barkerville actors. Both the blacksmith’s forge and the Cariboo Sentinel will also be operating for visitors to enjoy.

Stewart Cawood, manager of public programming and media at Barkerville, told The Citizen about some of the offerings visitors can expect this holiday.

“We have a special guest visitor, Father Christmas himself, who comes to visit us, and in your day, you would know him as Santa Claus,” said Cawood. “People can book photos with him at the Louis A. Blanc Photo Gallery just up the main street, but we’ve also got the bakery open, the hotel is open for chili, and many of our gift shops throughout town are going to be open.

“You can get all kinds of unique and handcrafted items. We’re going to have the Correlieu Concert Band coming out to provide some music for us at the Methodist Church, and many of our historical interpreters will be on the main street doing caroling and providing some light programming throughout the day through the weekend.”

He also added that one character, who is a particular fan of Sherlock Holmes, will be doing a reading of a Christmas Sherlock Holmes mystery.

Cawood said a highlight of this long-running program is seeing the faces of those who see the historic site lit up in all its Christmas glory.

“I’ve lived out in that region since 2011 and I’m always taken aback by how much snow we can get through the winter,” said Cawood. “But for people who have never seen Barkerville in the wintertime, it’s truly special to see that look on their face when they see what a

magical winter wonderland it becomes.”

Cawood said snowplows, shovellers and snow removal crews will work in the days ahead of the event to clear the town and will be on standby in case the area gets hit with a dump of snow.

He also wants visitors to dress warmly and make sure their vehicles are ready for the trip.

“Everyone should be prepared for winter driving conditions when they’re coming down Highway 26,” said Cawood. “The weather can change on a dime because we are up in the mountains. Barkerville is around 4,200 feet above sea level, so the weather changes very quickly. People should make sure they have their snow tires on, they should also make sure that they have proper footwear with good grip because it can get slippery, and make sure that you’re dressed in layers.”

This event was made possible in part by a $10,000 contribution from Osisko Mining Development’s Cariboo Gold Project.

Cawood noted that Osisko Mining Development has been an incredible supporter of the park for many years, providing $110,000 to the park this year alone.

“They provide us with donations every year that allow our actors to have a proper rehearsal period before we open up programming and the theatre every year for our main season,” Cawood said. “They also support some of our musicians who work in the theatre throughout the summer. For the last three years, they have generously donated $10,000 to provide programming and make sure that we have the funds necessary to allow people to come in, do prep, and make sure that it’s a great weekend for everyone.”

Contest closes

Admission to the heritage site can be purchased in advance online or at the gate upon arrival, with a $12 rate for adults and $10 for seniors.

Children and youth will be admitted for free with a non-perishable donation to the Wells Food Hamper.

For event details and advance tickets, please visit www.barkerville.ca/ christmas

Guests line the

DECEMBER 18 - 21 VANIER

Entry deadline Dec 10, 11:59pm

streets of Barkerville during a previous Olde Time Christmas Event. The celebration returns to the historic town and park Dec. 13 and 14.

What’s happening in PG

Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland goes Thursday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at CN Centre. This new show combines breathtaking cirque artistry with favourite holiday music, creating an unforgettable evening for all ages. From dazzling acrobatics and high-flying aerial performances to heartwarming seasonal melodies, Cirque Musica brings the joy and wonder of the holidays to life. For more information and tickets visit www. ticketsnorth.Cirque

Crush Christmas Kick-Off goes Friday, Dec. 5 at 9 p.m. at Crush Nightclub, 1192 Fifth Ave. Exams are over and the holiday season has officially begun. Kick it off with an absolute banger powered by Sendszn.

Banff Mountain Film Festival Tour goes Friday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at The Prince George Playhouse, 2626 Recplace Dr. The Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society is hosting the Banff Mountain Film Festival this year. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students at pgbrs.org/events.

Ladies Night FUNraiser goes Friday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Hart Highlands Winter Club at the Hart Ski Hill, 3740 Winslow Drive. Come socialize and enjoy an evening of wine and food, other beverages also available. Live music by Theresa Jordan. There is a silent auction. Must be 19+ to attend. Tickets are $20 each, includes a beverage and a range of appetizers. Tickets available at the hill.

Winterfest 2025 goes Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Civic Centre. One of the last big markets before Christmas features food, drink, arts, crafts and more. Admission is free. Brightest and Best, a Traditional Choral Concert goes Saturday, Dec. 6 with a matinee at 2 p.m. and evening concert at 7 p.m. at St. Michaels’ and All Angels Anglican Church, 1505 Fifth Ave, downtown Prince George. This event is presented by the Prince George Cantata Singers, featuring music director Carolyn Duerksen and accompanist Maureen Nielsen, special guests

Crowds fill the Civic Centre for the 2019 Winterfest craft market. It returns Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free.

include Thea Coburn, Simon Cole, Roxy Dykstra, Anna Scarpino, Morris Scarpino and Erica Skowron. There will be a silent auction and cookie drive. Tickets are $30 for adults, children 12 and under are $15 at the door or online at www.tickettailor.com/events/ princegeorgecantatasingers

Prince George Chess Open Tournament goes Saturday, Dec. 6 from noon to 4:30 p.m. at the Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch. Come test your chess skills against other players during this rapid format tournament of 10 minutes. Participation is free and open to all ages and skill levels. Presented in collaboration with the PG Chess Club. Register before 11:45 a.m. on Dec. 6 by calling 250-563-9251 ext. 100. Prizes will be awarded to rated and non-rated players. Free for all ages.

Ace’s K9 Care Annual Santa Photos goes Sunday, Dec. 7 starting at 9 a.m. at 5877 Leslie Rd. Blonde Photography will be on hand to take photos for a minimum donation of $10 with all proceeds going to Ned’s Wish, a charity that supports the medical needs of retired

RCMP and Military canines. There will be door prizes, goodie bags for the first 50 visitors plus fantastic sales and holiday goodies.

Forever Young Chorus presents The Bells of Christmas featuring the Zion Handbell Choir and goes Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at the Elder Citizen Recreation Centre, 1692 Tenth Ave. This event features a variety of Christmas music. Tickets are $12 each and available at the Centre.

Holiday Evening Market goes Friday, Dec. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Homespun Refillery, 3110-15th Ave. This festive event will see a small mix of local vendors with unique, sustainable and handcrafted gifts to explore while enjoying a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Scary Ghost Stories, a Victorian Tradition goes Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday, Dec. 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Artspace above Books & Co., 1685 Third Ave. Fans of the classic horror genre are invited to wear Victorian attire for the live reading presented by Kevin O’Brien. Come warm (or freeze) your soul. Ghosts are not just for Halloween.

In the days before TV and radio families used to gather and share scary stories on those cold dark nights. Tickets are $20 at Books & Co.

Celtic Christmas goes Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at St. Michaels’ Anglican Church, 1505 Fifth Ave. Celebrate the season with the PG Symphony Orchestra, Old Time Fiddlers and PG Conservatory Harp Ensemble. This event features festive favourites, toe-tapping jigs and beautiful carols. Admission by donation (suggested $25 for adults and $10 for children). Tickets available online and at the door. For more information visit https://pgconservatory.ca/calendar

Prince George Artists Co-Op Workshop & Gallery Christmas Open House goes Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3955 John Hart Highway in the old Hart Highway school. Come meet some of the artists and see their work. Find out about the Co-Op’s art classes, including drawing, coloured pencils, oil, acrylic, watercolour, pen & ink and mixed media.

Evan Symons at Deadfall Brewing goes Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at 1733 Nicholson St. S. Evan Symons from Texada Island plays rock/folk/blues/ country originals and classic covers during the show. Evan grew up in PG and is returning to his home town for this performance.

Christmas Brunch goes Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. at Spruce Capital Senior Centre, 3701 Rainbow Drive. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Enjoy a hearty meal including eggs, bacon, ham, sausages, hash brown, French toast, fresh fruit, toast with jam, juice, coffee and tea. For adults it’s $25 and for children under 12 it’s $12.

P&R Farms 5th Annual Christmas Market goes Sunday, Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 12800 Salmon Valley Road. Lots of local vendors will be selling their wares, food and hayrides are available and a bonfire will be on site. Come out and support local vendors. Cash sales only.

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CITIZEN FILE PHOTO

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Blackburn Community Pancake Breakfast with Santa goes Sunday, Dec. 14 at 9:30 a.m. at the Hall, 2451 Blackburn Road. Doors open at 9, breakfast is at 9:30 and Santa will make an appearance at 10 a.m. There will be a professional photographer on site with Santa. Breakfast features pancakes, sausages, strawberries, juice, coffee and hot cocoa. Adults are $15, seniors and students are $10, ages 5 to 11 are $7 and children under 5 are free. No tickets at the door. Tickets are available from Terri Whitwick or at the Craft Fair on Nov. 29 and 30. Donations of non-perishable food items and toiletries will be accepted for the Secret Santa Project PG.

The Austen Affair: Tea, Tales & Timeless Love goes Tuesday, Dec. 16 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the Prince George Public Library, Bob Harkins Branch. Fall back in time to enjoy afternoon tea, a Jane Austen reading and a movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice (2005). Period costume voluntary, enjoyment mandatory. Tea and readings at 1, movie at 3 p.m. This is geared for adults and it’s a free event. For more information visit www.pgpl.ca/events/ austen-affair-tea-tales-timeless-love.

The Nutcracker goes Dec. 18 to 21 at 7:30 p.m. each evening with matinees at 2 p.m. on Dec. 20 & 21 at Vanier Hall, 2901 Griffiths Ave. This spectacular holiday tradition is presented by Judy Russell and the Prince George Symphony Orchestra. This is Tchaikovsky’s time-honoured ballet in two acts with live orchestra. For more information and tickets visit www.pgso.com/ TheNutcracker

Small Business Holiday Luncheon goes Thursday, Dec. 18 from noon to 2 p.m., doors open at 11 a.m. at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre, 808 Canada Games Way. This event is a festive lunch with your favourite workmates, closest pals or hard-working committee members. There are

door prizes, entertainment and delicious festive food. Tickets are $40. For more information visit eventservices@ princegeorge.ca.

Early Bedtime Club Christmas Bash goes Friday, Dec. 19 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Ignite Night Club, 1232 Third Avenue for those who want to relive the best hits of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s while still protecting your precious sleep schedule. Dance, socialize and enjoy the music that raised your generation and be in bed before the late-night crowd even wakes up. Each ticket supports the construction of water wells in remote African communities, giving families access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water. Tickets are at www.eventbrite.com/e/ early-bedtime-club-xmas-bash-tickets Candlelight: Tribute to ABBA goes Saturday, Dec. 20 at 8:30 p.m. at Knox Performance Centre, 1448 Fifth Ave. Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience featuring the Listeso String Quartet. Enjoy all the most popular ABBA songs. For more information and tickets visit www.feverup.com/ candlelightABBAtickets

Centre, 3701 Rainbow Drive. Meetings are informal and are for sharing information about slowing down the progression of PD. There are guest speakers, special events and biweekly exercise sessions and positive social interaction. Use lower parking lot beside ball diamond to access the seniors centre.

Chronic Condition Support Group takes place the first Tuesday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Nechako Branch of the Prince George Public Library, 6547 John Hart Hwy. This is a community social group where people with any chronic condition can come together to socialize, connect and learn from each other. This is a free drop-in event.

Trivia Night at Nancy O’s goes every other Wednesday at 8 p.m., 1261 Third Ave. There are three rounds per game, each round has five themed questions

Craft & Chat at the main branch of the Prince George Public Library goes every Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. in the magazine corner, second floor, where fibre artists are invited to bring their latest projects to share, vent frustrations, brag about successes, get and give help and join in lively discussions. Snacks provided. This event is in partnership with Great Northwest Fibre Fest.

Myeloma Support Group goes every third Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Commonwealth Financial, 575 Victoria St. Everyone is welcome who has been diagnosed, those who are caregivers, family members and friends. Wheelchair accessible parking at the back of the building. For more information call Viv Lougheed at 250-981-2618.

Parkinson Support Group meetings are the first Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Spruce Capital Seniors

and five music questions. There’s something for everyone. The winning team gets a custom Nancy O’s Trivia trophy and a round of drinks, their photo on the wall that goes into the winners’ book after two weeks. Those caught cheating will be publicly shamed and labelled as cheaters — good wholesome fun. Book a spot by calling ahead at 250-562-8066. Open Mic at Nancy O’s goes every other Wednesday from 8 to 11 p.m. Open mic is hosted by Danny Bell and friends. Come on down and share songs, poetry, dance, stories, and anything else you can think to do on stage. All are welcome.

If you’ve got an event coming up email us at news@pgcitizen.ca to offer details including name of the event, the date, time and location, ticket price and where to get them and a little bit about what’s happening, too. LOCF

HO-HO-HO!

ABOVE: Santa and Mrs. Claus bring a Who from Whoville with them as their sleigh makes its way along the route.

BELOW: People enjoy a 10-minute hayride on the BCNE Express Wagon at the 30th Annual Civic Light Up celebration at Canada Games Plaza Friday, Nov. 28. See more photos from the weekend’s events at pgcitizen.ca.

The magic got under Civic Light Kopar Holiday and, of course, (see Page

TOP: Special Olympics Christmas during on Saturday, Nov.

MIDDLE: Members on stage at the ada Games Plaza

RIGHT: Phil Dovey, 3, take a selfie

magic of the Christmas season under way on the weekend with Light Up on Friday and the Holiday Parade on Saturday course, the Festival of Trees Page 28 for more about that)

Olympics athletes and their supporters celebrate during the Kopar Holiday Parade on 15th Avenue Nov. 29.

Members of the Nove Voce Choral Society perform the 30th Annual Civic Light Up celebration at CanPlaza Friday, Nov. 28.

Dovey, wife Kirsten and kids Alexis, 7, and James, during the 30th Annual Civic Light Up.

PHOTOS BY CHUCK NISBETT

American woman revisits her ‘hippie’ Longworth roots

She moved there in ’74 and lived in a teepee for a year to be with the man of her dreams

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Katharine Howard followed her heart to Longworth.

It was the spring of 1974 and the 19-year-old American took the train up from Jasper to a piece of heavily forested land in the middle of nowhere. Home to only 12 or 15 people, Longworth had no road access. You got there either by using the train tracks or by boat on the Fraser River.

Howard had arranged to meet her boyfriend, Bruce Corrigan, who had been drafted into the U.S. Army. He came north to avoid the Vietnam War and live with his friend Joseph (Joe) Marvici on a 160-acre plot they bought in the tiny settlement on the banks of the Fraser River bordering the McGregor Mountains.

“When I got there it was dark still and I was like, uh-oh, there were no lights, but the sun was coming up and I was on the mountainside of the tracks and the train pulled away and there was Bruce with his wagon and two horses,” said Howard.

“It was a good thing because I had 14 boxes of all my things. I was moving in with the man of my dreams and I was in love. I was going to live there forever and have babies and grow vegetables and milk goats. And I did it for a year.”

Originally from St. Louis, Mo., Howard met Corrigan in Colorado. He and Marvici were among hundreds of young adult males who rejected the idea of fighting in Vietnam and came to Canada to seek a new life in the central Interior. Longworth, 160 kilometres east of Prince George, was a suitable spot for modern-day pioneers looking to go off-grid to a place with no roads and no utilities.

“I was so in heaven, it’s a beautiful area, virgin thick forest right up against Longworth Peak and Mount Baldy,” she said.

“I think they all thought Joe was a draft dodger — I don’t think he was, I think he decided to live up there because he wanted to work the land and homestead. It was a good idea. In my generation the ones who went either died in Vietnam or came back messed up or married somebody from Thailand.”

She and Corrigan lived at the front of the property half a mile away from Joe and Constance (Connie) in a 24-foot teepee and she was there for a year. It got down to -45 C on the coldest winter night but she stayed warm inside their double-canvas shelter heated by a wood-burning Ashley hearth and cookstove placed back to back, hooked up to a double-wall stovepipe that ran up to the top.

“We had six feet of insulation around the bottom, like another layer of canvas and we stuffed wool clothing from the second-hand stores as insulation between the two canvasses, it was cozy,” Howard said.

“In the morning neighbours came by to see if I was still alive because I was

by myself. He went up to the Yukon to work as a diamond driller.

“I made bread every week on the cookstove and to take a bath in the wintertime I’d fill aluminum tubs with snow and put that on top of the cookstove and lift it and drag it around to the heater. I didn’t bathe a whole lot, but in the summertime I’d bathe in the creek at the entrance to the property.”

In the year she was there, Howard and Corrigan took the train a couple of times to get groceries in Prince George but they were mostly self-sufficient, picking fiddleheads and berries and growing what they could to make preserves for the winter.

They had chickens and goats and used horses to work the land.

“I was a vegetarian at the time but I ate part of a moose’s heart, which was actually quite good, it was like filet mignon,” said Howard.

“We grew it all, we had eggs, goat milk and goat cheese and made goat butter with the cream. There’s not as much cream in goat milk but you’d separate it and shake the cream in a gallon jar until it solidified and made butter. I ate a

lot of bread and jam. My whole life was cooking and baking and chopping cedar shakes.

“I think we were going to build a cabin but it didn’t get that far.”

At the time, Howard was well ensconced in the hippy lifestyle. She’d left her family home at age 16 and hitchhiked twice across the United States, picking up work along the way living in communal farms where she could earn her room and board, where single women were always welcomed.

In the ’30s and ’40s Longworth was a thriving sawmill community on the Eastline of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway and had as many as 1,000 residents. But most of them had moved away by 1969, when the train station was demolished. It wasn’t until 1989 that a bridge and road connector was built to link Longworth with the road to Prince George. Because it was so isolated, people often just made do with what was available. They used hay twine to make a hackamore noseband for their horses so they could ride them.

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

Katharine Howard visits the Longworth Community Centre, the only public building other than the post office in the tiny settlement 160 kilometres east of Prince George.

Back then, you couldn’t reach the community by road

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Howard has a vivid memory of the day she encountered a bull moose while she was riding back to the property.

“I’d get on it bareback and we were halfway back when I saw this big moose, its antlers were almost as wide as this room, and it ran off through this narrow space in the trees and of course my horse also took off in a full run,” she said. “So I was on a horse at a full run, on bareback, controlling this beast with twine in my hand, and he ran right back to the teepee.”

The creek they used as a water supply was more than half a mile away from the teepee and they used a yoke mounted on the horses to haul buckets of water.

Howard ended her relationship with Corrigan when she found out he’d been cheating on her with a married friend of theirs who was his hairdresser. He was the one who told her and said he wasn’t about to change his wandering ways.

“I only found that out when he came back from the Yukon and I don’t know why he told me, but he said, ‘You’re going to have to get used to that,’ and I said, ‘No, I’m not.’

“But he followed me to three different places. He came three different times to get me back. He followed me to Colorado, to Ojai, California and to Kona, Hawaii. He thought it was no big deal and I told him, ‘You’re not that great.’”

Howard said she might have stayed in Longworth permanently had he been faithful to her. That was her original plan.

Marvici, who lives in Prince Rupert, wrote a 525-page fictional account based on his 25 years living off the land in Longworth — The Longstock Chronicles — published last March. Howard read it and wasn’t impressed.

“It’s all lies, it’s a novel,” she laughed. “I was the only woman in town he never had sex with, according to the book. He said that’s what sells books.

“He changed everybody’s names to protect them but when he gets to my section in the book he calls me Kathy, a Jewish girl who fought with Corrigan

all the time, they were always bickering and I’m like, what? I think he just made it up. In the book he says I left because I couldn’t handle the winter but he never talked to me. I was there by myself in the teepee.”

Howard lives in Hawaii and she and her partner, John Bolton, decided to make the trip back to Canada this past summer, in late August, to retrace her Longworth roots.

Joe’s wife Connie moved to Hawaii with her kids a year after Howard left Longworth. She found her on Facebook when she looked up her kids, who have unusual names (Zad and Shatonya), and saw pictures of them wearing Kona T-shirts.

“She’s in Las Vegas now and once she knew I was living there she came back for a visit,” said Howard. “Zad lives in Prince George. He was two when I was there and he’s 52 now. He was real nice and gave me directions to the river.”

There’s a bridge over the Fraser now and Howard and Bolton were able to drive to the Longworth post office and community centre. The first people they met were Marian and Bill, who had just come back to visit their property from Edmonton. They caught up to them on the road and stopped for a conversation and were invited to come by their place later.

Marian asked Howard if she knew Iris McCoy, a longtime Longworth resident who was married to Bob McCoy, whose mom Teresa was the postmaster 50

when I was there and she was the sweetest person. Wayne McCoy took over from his mom at the post office after she passed, but he passed away. Bob McCoy was the only person that was still there, but he’s 86 and I don’t think he had any idea who I was.”

Christi and her husband Bill now own the Marvici property and Christi lent Howard and Bolton their quad so they could go back to where the teepee used to stand.

years earlier.

“Iris was there with her daughter and she didn’t remember me but she looked just like Connie, Joe’s wife,” said Howard. “She was very nice and I wish I had taken her picture and we visited for a few minutes and left.

“Teresa McCoy was the postmaster

“She didn’t even know who I was and she said, ‘Take the ATV,’” said Howard. It was Bolton’s idea to take Howard on her pilgrimage back to Longworth and it turned into the trip of a lifetime, a chance to stir up memories from her hippy past and meet some of the people who have made it their home.

“I was so happy there, it’s the cutest town and the sweetest, freshest, nicest people and that’s how everyone is in Longworth,” she said. “They’re so inviting.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

John Bolton goes for a ride in Longworth resident Kristi’s quad in front of a cabin former resident Joseph Marvici built on his land in the ‘70s.

Festival of Trees celebrates season with 18,000 visitors

MATTHEW HILLIER Citizen Staff

The Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation reported Monday, Dec. 1 that 18,000 people attended its Festival of Trees event, making 2025 one of its best years for turnout since its inception.

The event began Wednesday, Nov. 26 at the CN Centre and ran until Sunday, Nov. 30.

“We were hoping that we would see an increase, said Aimee Cassie, CEO of Spirit of the North. “Healthcare Foundation — I think this year blew all our expectations and hopes out of the water. I mean, we were absolutely floored with the number of people who came through the doors, and we are so pleasantly surprised and just so incredibly thankful for the support.”

Cassie attributed the increase in part to the move to the CN Centre, which gave them more space for both trees and people.

“I think the space has just given us the ability to grow in all the right ways,” said Cassie. “Each area was able to expand … For the first time in the new venue, we are incredibly happy with how it went. It was really exciting to see it come together. I was nervous that we wouldn’t have that same festival feel, and I think we achieved that feel that we were really going after.”

The Festival of Trees is one of the biggest yearly fundraising events for Spirit of the North and helps raise money through tickets, donations and auctions for much-needed healthcare equipment that is not funded by the government.

This year, Spirit of the North is looking to bring an endobronchial ultrasound system to UHNBC, a critical piece of equipment used to diagnose various types of cancer.

The equipment costs around $600,000. While totals are still being counted, Cassie is confident they reached their goal.

“We’re still doing the final tallies on the dollars that were raised,” said Cassie. “We’re close with it, so we’re

really encouraged. We’re going to continue fundraising for it. It is a big piece of equipment that will directly affect our friends and family and have a direct impact on them … We hope to bring that equipment to UHNBC in the next year. We’re hoping to get the order done in the next month or so and bring it to Prince George.”

Cassie explained that the week-long event was filled with highlights, but opening the doors to locals at the CN Centre was one of the most impactful moments for her.

“I think every day was filled with highlights,” said Cassie. “Opening the doors at the CN Centre for the first time

makes me emotional. I was pretty proud of our committee and our volunteer team — how much energy and passion they put into it. Opening those doors for the first time was really exciting and I think it’s something we’ll all remember for a long time. And then of course the parade — that was unbelievable and so exciting — and seniors day. It was wonderful to welcome so many seniors in the doors and celebrate seniors in our community. I mean, I think the list goes on and on.”

One of the mainstays of the Festival of Trees is the commitment and impact that volunteers make on the event. Cassie explained that without support

from community volunteers, the event would not be nearly as successful as it was.

“The number of volunteers that we saw this year was incredible,” said Cassie. “We were well over 200 volunteers, which is massive. They went from helping us load out of the warehouse to setting up, to running all of the areas at the festival, and then packing up that last night and deliveries that are ongoing today. Our volunteer team really is the heart and soul of Festival of Trees, led by our committee, and we’re just so grateful for their support — but I think that number is a testament to our Prince George community.”

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Laura Balkwill points out the Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter’s Frohe Festtage! (Happy Holidays) tree to Yuki Aoyama while they visited the Festival of Trees at CN Centre from Gateway Complex Care Thursday, Nov. 27.

Secret Santa Project PG seeking sponsors’ support

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Matching the needs of the community with the heart of the city the Secret Santa Project Prince George recently started the application process and received 100 requests from families and individuals in need. So far 60 sponsors have answered the call.

To bring it all together the request for more sponsors has been put out into the community and the project volunteers are asking individuals, families, small businesses and corporations to answer the call.

The Secret Santa Project PG started about 15 years ago with Lori Trupp doing most of the work but when she suddenly passed away in 2020 her friends stepped in to fulfill the wishes of those in need.

“We decided to keep her legacy going and that’s what drives us to do it,” Terri Whitwick, a volunteer, said. The project has continued over the years thanks to several volunteers including Whitwick, Patrick Telford, Leslie Campbell and Marianne Koops.

“That first year was pretty chaotic for us but we’re getting better at it. It’s a ‘fake it til you make it’ kind of thing. The need in Prince George is even greater than it has been before. It’s been a tough year and this project is for those who fall through the cracks in the community. It’s for those people who are barely scraping by but might not qualify for other hamper programs.”

With many of the Christmas hamper initiatives in town, there is a threshold for what determines need and that’s

where the Secret Santa Project comes into play.

People in need have applied to the project, including single people, couples, seniors and families who need a helping hand to make their holiday season a little bit brighter.

The Secret Santa Project is in the loop where all Christmas hamper programs in Prince George make every effort to cross reference every application to ensure it is a legitimate request and there are no duplications.

There is a varying degree of need depending on who is making the request and this hamper project makes it more personal, honouring people’s wish-list requests.

“I just spoke to a young man who has all the towels, blankets and sheets he needs, which are some of our most popular requests but he needs socks and T-shirts,” Whitwick said. “So priorities differ from application to application.”

The Secret Santa Project sees some larger families apply and because that could be daunting for a sponsor, there is an opportunity to be partnered with another sponsor to ease that burden and make it less overwhelming, she added.

“We’re determined to make it work,” Whitwick assured.

Here’s how it works:

Choose your family

• Choose the size of the family you’d like to sponsor and every effort will be made to match with those preferences in mind.

• Prepare a thoughtful hamper

• A full Christmas dinner including

turkey, ham, alternative plus potatoes, vegetables, stuffing and dessert.

• Extra food or household essentials

• One age-appropriate gift for each person in the family based on their wish list

• Optional: a family gift like movie passes, swimming, bowling but only if it fits your budget.

You’re welcome to include pet gifts if they listed pets, but it’s not required.

Connect with your family

• Reach out to your matched family as soon as possible to learn about preferences, allergies, or dietary needs unless anonymity is requested.

• You can introduce yourself as their Secret Santa or share your first name if you wish.

Gift wrapping and delivery

• You wrap and tag your gifts.

• Delivery is requested by December 21st or let the Secret Santa Project know earlier if help is needed.

Privacy and flexibility

• Sponsor names are never shared unless you choose to do so.

If you wish to make a donation without sponsoring a family, donation boxes have been set up at these supportive businesses Anchors Fresh Fish & Seafood, Jack & Jill Embroidery, Krell Wellness Centres in College Heights and near Spruceland, Expedia Cruises and Koops Bike Shop.

Items such as non-perishable food

Secret Santa Project PG is seeking sponsors but donations are always welcome, too. Donation boxes can be found at Anchors Fresh Fish & Seafood, Jack and Jill Embroidery, Krell Wellness Centres in College Heights and near Spruceland, Expedia Cruises and Koops Bike Shop.

items, toiletries, toilet paper, soaps, feminine hygiene products, blankets, towels, sheets, gift cards and more can be dropped at those locations during their business hours.

These items will be used to help build hampers during the Christmas season if not all requests by those in need are filled.

“We usually put together about 10 hampers ourselves and those donations go a long way to helping with that,” Whitwick said. “Then we’re just going out to buy things that haven’t been donated so it does work out good to have the donation bins.”

To reach out to be a sponsor visit the Secret Santa page at www.facebook. com/SecretSantaProjectPG

People can also etransfer funds is they prefer to donate that way at secretsantaprojectpg@gmail.com

20, 2025 - DEC. 10, 2025

MARIANNE KOOPS PHOTO

Christmas ghost stories can send chills down your spine

Retired local drama teacher revives an old holiday tradition

CHRISTINE DALGLEISH Citizen Staff

Scary ghost stories aren’t just for Halloween.

A Victorian Christmas tradition once saw families gather on cold, dark winter nights to hear tales that could freeze the soul.

Jump-scare expert and retired Prince George drama teacher Kevin O’Brien is inviting fans of classic horror to dress up in their Victorian best and join him for a reader’s theatre performance at Artspace above Books & Co. on Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m.

O’Brien has been intrigued by the macabre for most of his life. He met his like-minded writing partner at university and has been exploring the genre ever since.

The tales O’Brien will present at the event are a series produced, written and arranged by longtime friend Bill Allman.

“I like a good story, I like stories that get people interested — I found that telling pirate stories, lost treasure stories and, of course, ghost stories, really caught people’s attention,” O’Brien said.

“I’ve always considered myself more of a person of science but there’s some things that have happened in my life that I just can’t explain.”

He has run into the unexplained throughout his life and recalls an experience he had in the basement of a family member’s home he was helping renovate years ago.

“This house was absolutely haunted and it wasn’t an old house. It was a house maybe from the 1980s but there was something really wrong in that house,” O’Brien said.

“There was a sense of presences in the place that scared the willies out of us. We were downstairs in the basement at about 9 o’clock in the morning talking about the plans for the renovations and I felt there was something odd and all of a sudden this music starts to

play and it was from a child’s toy — it’s always a child’s toy, right? — but it was from a child’s toy where you need to take a puzzle piece and plug it in and then it starts to sing but there was no child, there was no puzzle piece — it just started singing and stuff like that happened all the time there — like seeing people who weren’t there.”

O’Brien said there were always ghost stories being told in his family because his mother grew up in a haunted home in southern Alberta.

“I have always been fascinated with the macabre,” O’Brien said.

“It worked out quite well because I did lots of shows over the years and I worked in a horror show for two years in Calgary and it was a kind of haunted mansion kind of thing and there were all kinds of scary things going on there. My job was figuring out how to scare people and it was a lot of fun. I got to write the company manual, I got to create scripts, I got to build monsters

— it was great!”

Lots of scary puzzle pieces make up O’Brien’s life.

“I’ve always been a fan of the genre of horror stories,” O’Brien said.

“So the event is going to be what it was like in the Victorian era when people gathered in their mansions to tell their tales and even not in their mansions because during the Industrial Revolution the steam-powered printing press took off and absolutely made all this possible, so even the poorest people could then read and could afford some literature. Because of the industrial-era middle class, lower class liked to read about all these strange things happening in these mansions of their betters. It was their chance to peek into that world and so there was a period of time that people were paranoid about what was beyond life and there was a huge movement to find out about the afterlife during that period and seances were very popular and mystics and

readers and seers and all of that.”

There will be several stories told during the evening, and O’Brien will raffle off a couple of his landscape paintings.

“I will raffle off the realist paintings because my abstracts are rather bizarre and I don’t want to scare anybody — oh wait a minute — maybe I do,” O’Brien said with a laugh.

He added that as he has been putting up posters around town, young adults have been reacting very positively.

“So that’s good because this is more for adults, not for the very young,” O’Brien said, citing the fear factor in the content.

“Be sure to dress up in period costume if you’d like.”

Scary Ghost Stories, a Victorian Christmas Tradition, runs Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Artspace above Books & Co., 1685 Third Ave. Tickets are $20 at Books & Co.

CHARLES GIROUX ILLUSTRATION

Maids listen to a ghost story at Christmas in this Victorian illustration. The old tradition returns to Prince George this year.

Thursday:

Dec. 5, 1994: Jay-Ana Mahor and Natasha Johnson of the Duchess Park Condorettes show off their high school girls’ double-A provincial volleyball championship banner after landing at the Prince George Airport. The Condorettes beat Lambrick Park of Victoria 15-9, 16-14, 15-3 in the championship final in Invermere. The provincial title was the first for a Duchess Park volleyball team. CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY BRENT BRAATEN

Dec. 8, 1958: One of the biggest crazes of the ’50s became a fundraiser as a hulahoop contest was held at what was then called Duchess Park Junior High. Edith Lafleur, a Grade 9 students who organized the hulahoop-la, was joined by local hula-hoop king Len Fraser of CKPG to raise money for the March of Dimes with Fraser demonstrating his skills at the school.

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY KEN

ORR

Dec. 1, 2013: Hayden Doane, 2, had a chance to meet Santa’s horse Shasta at the Agriplex during Country Christmas, which featured sleigh rides, storytelling and visits with Santa’s animals. CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY DAVID MAH

Dec. 4, 1975: Fairy

puts the daisy sign on

by

while

by

watches during a rehearsal for A Real Live Boy. It was Lakewood Elementary School’s new play, with 60 students taking part. CITIZEN FILE

“Modmother” Theresa L’Heureux

Pinocchio, played

Tracy Henry,

Geppetto, played

Kent Scheck,

PHOTO

New pediatric education program available for nurses

SAMANTHA (SAM) HANNON Northern Health

Northern Health (NH) spans nearly 600,000 square kilometres, serving more than two dozen communities across the region. In every one of our facilities, dedicated nurses provide care to pediatric patients, even though training has traditionally focused on adult care.

We know that caring for children and their families comes with its own unique challenges. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a brandnew, specialized education program designed just for nurses in Northern BC.

This initiative is grounded in the latest evidence-based practices and current standards of excellence. It’s all about empowering our nurses with the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to deliver exceptional pediatric care — right here in the North.

During recent Regional Pediatric Morbidity & Mortality (M&M) Committee meetings, important gaps in pediatric education for nurses were identified.

In response to these findings, pediatric clinical educators — with strong support from the Child & Youth executive lead and the Clinical Education department — have created a new learning program for nurses in

Northern BC.

The Northern Health Pediatric Education Program (NHPEP) is designed to help nurses build confidence and skills in caring for children and youth, using the latest best practices and standards.

The intention of this education program is to provide foundational pediatric knowledge to support nurses caring for children, youth and their families.

NHPEP is recommended for newly

hired nurses and nurses who care for children and youth infrequently in all acute care facilities.

The main takeaways for nurses who attend the program are:

• Understanding pediatric developmental stages

• Performing age-appropriate pediatric assessments

• Applying pediatric-specific clinical skills

• Integrating evidence-based pediatric practices

• Awareness and use of NH-endorsed resources for pediatric care

What two nurse learners said about the NHPEP

• “Overall, this was an amazing day. I feel much more confident knowing where to access resources. It was a great refresher to go over the pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis and asthma protocols. This significantly helped me in understanding pediatric pathways of care.”

• “This was an amazing day of education, and our community needs pediatric education support. I would love to see more days like this offered — especially before flu season.”

The NHPEP in-person education sessions have been running since September 2024, but the online portion was released last month.

Introducing the online learning will be a great way for more NH staff to access this education. In-person education sessions have already been completed in Quesnel, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Vanderhoof, Fort St. John and Dawson Creek.

The program so far has been a success, and the team looks forward to bringing it to more NH staff and Northern communities in the future.

This new 2026 calendar may help prevent dementia

is all too familiar with it.

But do you know that there is something we can do to slow this trend?

Everyone needs a calendar, right? Why not try one that supports your health?

Did you know that the number of Canadians living with dementia is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050?

At the current rate, by 2030 there will be 21 new cases of dementia diagnosed in Canada every hour.

If these numbers don’t shock you, you may either be one of the few whose life hasn’t yet been touched by this life-altering disease, or you may be one who

While there are some factors that cannot be changed in the development of dementia, such as age, sex, and genetics, emerging research shows that small lifestyle tweaks can make a big difference in brain health.

It might seem early to start thinking about next year’s calendar, or maybe it’s exactly the right time to think ahead, particularly if your 2026 calendar provides tips on how to reduce your risk of developing dementia.

Northern Health’s (NH) new 2026 calendar, “Think ahead: A yearlong

dementia prevention guide” explores what works—and why it’s never too early (or too late) to start.

The calendar is based on a 2024 study that found almost half of dementia cases in Canada could be linked to 12 risk factors that are considered modifiable.

This means we may be able to lower our chances of developing dementia through everyday actions like staying active and keeping our minds busy.

In Canada, some of the greatest risk factors include high blood pressure, hearing loss, and lack of physical activity.

That means that any actions we

can take to lower our blood pressure, protect our hearing, and move our bodies are actions that can help prevent dementia down the road.

Other actions explored each month include caring for your mental well-being, maintaining social connections, eating well, and reducing the use of substances such as alcohol and commercial tobacco.

Everyone needs a calendar, right? Why not try one that supports your health?

Visit www.northernhealth.ca/ health-topics/dementia to learn more about dementia and download your copy today.

NORTHERN HEALTH PHOTO

Regional clinical nurse educators and NHPEP program instructors Sam Hannon and Katie Martin welcome all nurses caring for children and their families to partake in the NHPEP.

GLORIA FOX Northern Health

Local Sports Sorry, Prince George — no Olympic ski trials after all

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Kevin Pettersen woke up to the bitter irony of heavy flakes falling on Prince George Monday, Dec. 1, and by the time it stopped, close to 10 centimetres of new snow was covering the trails at Otway Nordic Centre.

But the call had already been made the previous Friday afternoon when it was determined by Nordiq Canada there wasn’t enough snow to stage the Olympic cross-country ski trials — slated for Dec. 13-16 at Otway Nordic Centre — and the event to choose Canada’s team for the 2026 Olympics in February has been moved to Sovereign Lake near Vernon.

“It’s a heartbreaker,” said Pettersen, event chair of the organizing committee. “I’ve gone through all the stages of grieving on Friday and Saturday, it’s a tough one for sure.”

Although the Otway facility is well equipped with state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment, November temperatures were not cold enough to create enough snow to cover the trails deep enough for the three days of racing.

It got colder on Thursday and the snow guns were working overnight that day and early Friday — the only day in the past month when the high temperature was colder than -5 C, the threshold temperature for making snow.

Pettersen was encouraged to see four or five four-metre-long piles of snow built up from just eight hours of snowmaking, but each pile would only provide enough for a 100-metre stretch of trail 30 centimetres deep. At least 25 piles would have been required for the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club organizing committee to have been given the green light.

The interval-start format meant the trail only had to be four metres wide, rather than eight metres for a mass-start event. But it still wasn’t enough.

Cross-country skiers compete in an event at Otway Nordic Centre last winter. Slated to host Olympic trials this month, the centre learned last week that a lack of snow meant the event had to be moved to the Vernon area.

“For Friday, Saturday and Sunday we probably could get another 12 to 16 piles, which wouldn’t get us all the way there, but we had to look to see what the weather forecast would be for other windows to make snow and this week it’s not low enough to make snow,” said Pettersen.

“It didn’t look good for this week, but the following week long-term there could be some windows, so we felt there was a good chance we could at least hit the minimum for hosting the event. It wasn’t our decision, it was Nordiq Canada’s decision,” he said.

“We were willing and able to move forward, but they felt that Sovereign had snow on the ground, but not a lot. Now that we’ve got a good dump of snow and there’s good snow in the forecast, it looks like we’ll have as good of a chance with natural snow as Sovereign does. Now they’re totally relying on natural snow for the race.”

The nordic trails at Sovereign Lake are next to Silver Star alpine resort, northeast of Vernon, and there is no

snowmaking infrastructure. The lack of snow there resulted in a Continental Cup race being downgraded to a regional race this past weekend. Skiers were racing on a four-centimetre base and the stadium was purposely not used for the course to save the snow for the Olympic trials coming up in less than two weeks.

Nordiq Canada CEO Beckie Scott said skiers need time to make travel arrangements and the uncertainty of sufficient snow in Prince George left no choice but to move the event to Vernon, where snow is forecast the next four days.

“Ultimately they made the call the races would be moved and I can understand the disappointment,” said Scott. “(The cutoff) is two weeks. We have a lot of athletes who are traveling from across the country and it’s really in consideration of the expenses to travel and for accommodation, just making sure that if changes have to be made enough time is given so people can make those changes.”

Pettersen jokingly suggested Prince

George as the backup in case the conditions at Sovereign are not suitable. He also suggested Nordiq Canada postpone the races by a week, but that would disrupt training and racing schedules for the high-performance athletes who will represent Canada at the Games in Italy, Feb. 6-22.

Scott said it was “highly unlikely” the races would come back to Prince George.

“I’m as disappointed as anyone,” Scott said. “I had such a wonderful experience in Prince George when I came in June for the announcement and I know there was a tremendous amount of work and effort that went into making this happen and it’s really unfortunate we can’t do anything about the weather.”

With 150 skiers anticipated, some of whom planned to arrive a week ahead of the races to train, the loss to the city’s economy is projected at about $770,000 in lost hotel rooms, restaurant meals and other goods and services that would have been purchased.

As soon as it was announced Prince George would be hosting the event, suppliers and contractors lined up to get involved and that support was enough to push revenues beyond the club’s targets.

Now, with the races scrapped, organizers have already purchased banners that won’t get used and some of the contractual obligations will still have to be paid to the contractor supplying the large video screen for the site. CBC was also on board to provide live coverage of the three race events on its streaming platforms, which would have been a first for Otway.

Pettersen said the sponsors will cover those costs.

“I’m thankful we got the nod to do it,” said Pettersen. “You miss 100 per cent of the shots you don’t take and we had the shot and everything was in place, it was just factors outside of our control that it didn’t happen.”

CITIZEN FILE PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Condors soar over Eagles to claim BC volleyball title

One of the most exciting finals in the game’s 110-year local history

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

If you weren’t there Saturday, Nov. 29 at the College of New Caledonia gym to watch the Duchess Park Condors win the BC provincial double-A boys volleyball championship on home turf, you missed one of the most exciting final matches in the city’s 110-year sports history.

In a game that will be talked about for generations, the Richmond Christian Eagles and the Condors pushed themselves well beyond the limits of what’s expected from a group of teenaged boys to decide who goes home with that provincial banner. On this night it was the Condors who prevailed in a five-set marathon, winning 25-23, 25-21, 25-27, 24-26, 15-12.

“This feels absolutely amazing, we’ve been dreaming about this since freshman year and it’s a dream come true,” said Condors Grade 12 middle blocker Santiago Gonzalez. “We never thought this day would come, but it’s an honour and a privilege to be where we are today.

“The support from all our teams, the whole community, it’s more than volleyball. We’re all close together and it’s something amazing. It sucks that I’ll never be able to feel that again but I couldn’t be more grateful I got to experience it.”

After two narrow wins in the first two sets, the Condors jumped in front 19-13 and 22-16 in the third set and appeared to be on their way to completing a sweep, but the Eagles weren’t about to cave in.

Ben Burns got on a serving train and reeled off five straight points as the Condors started missing their passes. A Richmond block that landed out put the Condors a point away from finishing the match, but a couple of missed serves and a wayward tip were all it took to give the Eagles a 27-25 third-set win and

a new lease on their playoff lives.

In the fourth set, Richmond left-side hitter Kieran Hartley was a consistent force, pounding points, and one of them gave his team a 25-24 lead. On the next play the Condors thought they’d tied it, but the ball bounced off Hartley’s foot and remained in play and on the other side Sawyer Roberts went long on the Duchess return and the match was deadlocked.

“We knew they weren’t going to give it to us, and they definitely didn’t, they came back really strong and we really had to push through,” said Condors setter Sam Cramer. “Props to our defence, not just the block but over it, the back row really helped out, especially against Kieran. He’s a smart guy and we knew what we had to do.”

Gonzalez, Owen Martin and senior rookie Roberts were key ingredients in the run to the championship, clogging the middle and delivering key hits and putting their bodies on the line to dig up balls.

“We were expected to do good but winning it is unbelievable, it doesn’t feel real right now,” said Roberts. “I couldn’t

even watch the game (while taking a rest on the bench), it was so stressful. We pulled through but it was stressful.

“We let off the gas a bit, but this team, we always pull through in the end, we always stick together and play for each other and we play as a family. Certain guys showed up at certain times, it wasn’t just one person.”

Martin, one of 12 seniors on the Condors squad and team captain, was picked a second-team all-star on the right side.

“To win the first two sets we knew we had to come out firing, and the other team had the heart and they battled so hard, but that fifth set we knew it was now or never, and it was now,” Martin said.

“It was so fun to be a part of. The energy of the guys on the court was through the roof. If I don’t play post-secondary this was a helluva way to go out.”

Roberts and Grade 10 left-side hitter Rhome Secor stole the spotlight with meaningful contributions at critical times. Secor entered the game in the first set and dished out an ace to tie the

game at 20 and Roberts put down the next point, one of his three counters that paved the path to that first-set victory.

“Everyone pushed each other to be where they are now and I’m just so happy I had the chance to play with these seniors this year for their last year,” said Secor. “I tried my best to go out and not be nervous and everyone around me helped me stay focused and calm and made me believe I could do it and that helped me do what I did out there. It feels really good to win this.”

Left-side hitter Poulin was a close second to Cramer as the tournament’s most outstanding player and he doubled his pleasure from two years ago when he won the single-A provincial championship with Cedars Christian.

“It’s amazing, I did it in Grade 10 and I’m glad to do it again, except I got playing time this time,” said Poulin. “I give all my gratitude to my lord and saviour, Jesus Christ — he’s the only way I got here, he’s the only way I could persevere.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

CITIZEN

Duchess Park Condors setter Sam Cramer dives for the ball during the Provincial Double-A Senior Boys Championship final game at CNC Saturday, Nov 29.

Electric atmosphere with loud rival cheering sections

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

“After the fourth set we just had to keep a level head, keep self-control and keep swinging, that’s all it was.”

The electric atmosphere generated by the crowd of about 400 screaming, drum-beating fans noticeably amped up as the match progressed and spectator numbers suddenly grew when players from other tournament teams joined in to form duelling cheering sections at either end of the court.

Chants of Go Condors Go got louder as the D.P. Todd Trojans, Cedars Chris tian Eagles and College Heights Cougars and their friends got down on the floor to cheer on the PG boys from Duchess Park, and that was echoed by the Lower Mainland teams who lined the court alongside their volleyball buddies on the Eagles, yelling “Go Richmond go.”

“It was a great game, so back and forth, and the fans really made it inter esting and were super hyped up, it was

players to savour the moment as they waited for their silver medals, knowing it will be difficult, if not impossible, for them to be in that situation ever again.

“We were down two and this team has always had character and grit and resilience to battle back in those situations and they did it,” he said.

“We battled back and that last one didn’t go our way, even though we made it close, but that doesn’t change how proud I feel about these guys. This experience with the crowd and the kids, I’ve got nothing to say but this was

The Pacific Academy Breakers of Surrey won the best-of-three bronze medal game over the Pacific Christian Pacers of Victoria in three sets — 25-23, College Heights Cougars finished the 16-team tournament in eighth place. The D.P. Todd Trojans were

Duchess Park Condor Sawyer Roberts spikes through the blocks of Richmond Christian Eagles Cole Yamazaki (left) and Tristan Lim during the Provincial AA Senior Boys Championship final game at CNC Saturday, Nov. 29.

Local volleyball referee has been at it for 40 years

Gary Frederick passed his love of the game onto his son and fellow ref Kael

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

After 40 years of blowing his whistle as a peacekeeper enforcing the rules of volleyball, choosing to spend his spare time enduring the high-pitched cacophony of high school players and their fans cheering on their teams, referee Gary Frederick still has his hearing intact.

Despite the audio hazards of his trade, the 66-year-old senior official on the crew working last week’s BC double-A boys provincial volleyball championship at the College of New Caledonia and College Heights Secondary School is in his element.

“I just love the game, you get the best seat in the house and when you have two good teams that are swinging hard there’s nothing like being on the staff,” said Frederick. “That’s what reffing is all about. The group of officials are just outstanding individuals. We all work together and all come from different walks of life.”

Now retired from his day job as freight manager at Clark Freightways, Frederick has been working volleyball games for decades and there’s no end in sight, knowing he’s an essential part of a volleyball community that continues to punch above its weight.

From his perch on the referee’s stand he’s seen dozens of Prince George kids hone their skills during the high school season to become tournament all-stars and provincial team players and continue their development in the Prince George Youth Volleyball Club as college-calibre graduates creating their own career-extending opportunities beyond the city limits.

“CNC used to have volleyball and it’s disappointing that we have this level of volleyball and we don’t have somewhere for those kids to go,” said Frederick. “I’m seeing kids of kids I reffed

before (advancing to college teams).”

Frederick was a Grade 11 student in 1976 at Duchess Park Secondary School when he hit upon the idea of becoming a referee and he got his provincial certification that year. Gord Hay was retiring as the area’s national referee and Volleyball Canada needed a replacement, so Frederick enrolled in the national program.

At the same time, John Masich was a student at the University of Victoria with similar ambitions to climb the officials ladder and was chosen for the same program.

Masich moved back to the city and the result was Prince George had two young officials with their national certification in 1985.

“He came home and I had a partner to train with, we studied together,” said Frederick. “The theory clinic was in Winnipeg and we had to travel to spend the weekend there and then we had to go through national evaluation training.”

Masich, 60, is still a regular official on the high school and club volleyball scene and he remembers when Frederick was making the calls back when he was still a high school player for the Prince George Polars.

“When I was 18 and I was playing

help out and he couldn’t say no. He’s been a regular on the courts ever since.

Frank Crosina, head coach of the Cedars Christian Eagles boys team, says Frederick’s knowledge of the game and the lighthearted approach he brings to the court make him popular with coaches and players when they know he’ll be calling the shots in their games.

“Gary is such a solid guy, he’s so kind, and he never gets rattled,” said Crosina. “He’s a lot of fun, he always has a smile on his face, so let’s say he makes a bad call, you’re not going to say anything because he’s so consistent with his calls. The way he smiles, the way he talks to players, he keeps the game level, the game never gets out of control when he’s in control.”

in the high school provincial championship, Gary was one of the referees there,” said Masich. “We came second, we lost to Mission in four in 1982 at PGSS. The consolation was we won club (provincials) in 1983.”

Masich said Frederick has been instrumental in keeping the level of volleyball at a standard that demands excellence and he’s mentored dozens of officials in northern BC and encouraged them to get involved in the game.

“Gary and I had the opportunity to do our national team program together so we did a lot of traveling and he’s not just a great referee but a great human being,” said Masich.

While going through his regional certification, Frederick was chosen to replace Hay as the head official for a pre-Olympics exhibition game between the Canadian and U.S. national men’s teams at Prince George Secondary School, which was a homecoming for Randy Wagner, a former PGSS student who played for Canada at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Frederick stepped away from the game briefly but with Prince George hosting the high school provincial tournament a few years ago, the referee’s association called and asked him to

Gary’s older son Kyle was a referee for several years until he moved to Vancouver, and now his youngest son Kael, 18, has taken up the trade. Kael played for the senior team at Shas Ti Kelly Road until he graduated in June and he’s now in his third year working as an official.

“Dad is like a walking cheat card for me, he’s taught me everything I know,” said Kael.

This season, officials are wearing headsets with a mic so they can communicate with each other during matches. It just makes their jobs a little bit easier.

“We’re moving up in the world — that’s the first time we’ve used headsets,” said Gary. “It’s a bit to get used to but in Vancouver they use them all the time. We’re not used to talking during the game, we’re used to signaling.”

They still have to deal with high decibel levels in those gyms. Kael was wearing earbuds to block out the noise but had to switch to an over-the-ear headset because of the impression that people thought he was listening to music during the games.

Gary is in no hurry to put away his whistle permanently and says he’ll keep coming out to games as long as he has all his senses working for him.

“As long as I can make the calls, if it comes to the point where you can’t keep up with the play then I’ll have to make that decision,” he said.

TED CLARKE PHOTO

Volleyball referee Gary Frederick, left, gets together with his son Kael, centre, and John Masich during a break in the action at the BC double-A boys volleyball provincial championship at CNC last weekend.

Back-to-back home wins over Chiefs for Spruce Kings

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

Colin Reay picked up his third BCHL shutout and first as a Prince George Spruce King with a 31-save performance in a 4-0 victory over the Chilliwack Chiefs on Saturday, Nov. 29 at Kopar Memorial Arena.

It was the second of a two-game visit from the Chiefs.

The 20-year-old goalie from Sherwood Park, Alta., credited his shot-blocking teammates for making his night easier as the Kings completed a two-game weekend sweep of their BCHL Coastal East Division rivals in front of a crowd of 930.

“We talked about it in the room in the second intermission, kind of giving guys taps and props, that had to be the most blocked shots we’ve had in a game and the boys are fired up about that,” Reay said. “They don’t hurt as much in a win.”

Matic Percic got Spruce Kings fans on their feet 2:51 into the game as Dominic Szczygiel got the puck out of the zone at the blue line and Percic walked in on his off wing to snap it past the blocker of David Di Girolamo for the only goal of the first period.

Eleven minutes into the second period, Evan Bellamy beat Di Girolamo from the right side on a play assisted by Ozbej Rep and River Arnason.

Three minutes later, Arnason got the puck up to Rep, worked his way to the goal and fired a shot that was deflected by Mason Loewen.

The puck sat in the crease and Arnason knocked it over the line for his third of the season.

The Chiefs fired 14 shots in the third period, including nine in the first 6:30, but Reay was sharp and the Spruce Kings defence limited the barrage.

“I thought we played well, 14 shots against, it didn’t feel like that,” Reay said. “I thought our neutral zone was good, we didn’t give them much, it was more perimeter shots. I thought we played great and it was just good to seal it out — a good six-on-five as well, maybe one shot against and probably

three or four blocks. Just everyone wanted it more than those guys tonight.”

Tai Ushio sealed it with 50 seconds left into an empty net.

The pair of weekend wins left the Spruce Kings (12-9-1-0) two points behind Coquitlam for first place in the division.

Fourth-place Chilliwack (9-11-1-0) dropped six points behind Prince George.

Friday night’s game

Spencer Masters scored the game-winner with 6:21 remaining as the Prince George Spruce Kings knocked off the Chilliwack Chiefs 6-4 in front of 1,149 witnesses Friday at Kopar Memorial Arena.

Carter Hesselgrave scored two goals for the Kings. Masters had a goal and an assist, and Szczygiel, Michael Denney and Ben Vreugdenhil also scored for Prince George.

The Chiefs opened the scoring at 4:01 when Sam Auld’s shot bounced over Ryder Green. Prince George tied it at 7:24 on the power play as Hesselgrave buried a rebound, and Szczygiel restored the lead at 15:51 for a 2-1 edge after one.

In the second, Reay took over in goal and the Chiefs struck twice — Nico Grabas on a power play and Reese Shaw — to go up 3-2. Prince George tied it at 11:22 through Denney, and Vreugdenhil, returning from injury, deflected in Ushio’s shot at 18:02 for a 4-3 lead. Connor Dick tied it with 11 seconds left on the man advantage.

In the third, Loewen’s dump-in hit a stanchion and set up Masters for the winner, and Hesselgrave added an empty-netter.

Prince George outshot Chilliwack 31-29; Green stopped 7 of 8 and Reay 18 of 21.

The Spruce Kings are back at home this weekend for Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6 against the Victoria Grizzlies, with Saturday’s matchup being the annual Drop the Gloves and Sock It to ’Em game in support of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Spruce Kings centre Carter Hesselgrave is tripped by Chilliwack Chiefs left winger Sam Auld as he fires a scoring shot against goalie Ben Laurette at Kopar Memorial Arena Friday, Nov. 28. The teams faced off again the next night.

CITIZEN PHOTO BY CHUCK NISBETT

Cougars’ road trip continues this weekend in Victoria

Tri-City Americans snap Cats’ six-game winning streak

TED CLARKE Citizen Staff

The Prince George Cougars saw their six-game win streak come to an end Saturday, Nov. 29, falling 4-2 to the TriCity Americans at the Toyota Center in Kennewick, Wash.

The Americans scored in the final two minutes to pull ahead.

Dmitri Yakutsenak and Lee Shurgot supplied the offence for the Cats, while Alexander Levshyn turned aside 21 of the 24 shots he faced.

The opening 20 minutes featured plenty of pace and end-to-end action, highlighted by standout saves from both goaltenders.

Levshyn and Americans netminder Ryan Grout matched each other shot for shot to keep the game scoreless after one.

Tri-City opened the scoring in the second period at 9:39 when Connor Dale fed Grady Martin on a 2-on-1 to make it 1-0.

The Americans extended their lead at 15:22 on the power play, as Gavin Garland hammered a one-timer from the left circle past Levshyn for a 2-0 advantage.

The Cougars generated strong pressure on a pair of late-period power plays and were rewarded at 18:40, when Yakutsenak buried his 10th of the season to cut the deficit to 2-1.

Cougars defenceman Bauer Dumanski leads the celebratory fly-by after he scored in the first period Friday, Nov. 28 in Wenatchee, Wash. The Cougars went on to beat the Wild 3-0.

That score carried into the intermission.

In the third, the Cougars continued to manufacture chances, but Grout delivered several key stops to preserve the Americans’ lead.

Midway through the frame, the Cats struck shorthanded at 12:34 as Shurgot ripped home his fifth of the season following a terrific setup from Washington Capitals prospect Terik Parascak to tie the game 2-2.

However, Tri-City regained the lead at 18:31 when Dale pounced on a rebound in the slot to make it 3-2.

The Americans sealed the win with an empty-net goal from Savin Virk at 19:39, securing the 4-2 final.

In Wenatchee

Before that streak-ending loss, the Cougars opened their five-game road trip in style with a 3-0 shutout victory over the Wenatchee Wild on Friday, Nov. 28 at the Town Toyota Center.

Josh Ravensbergen was outstanding, turning aside all 29 shots he faced for his second shutout of the season and the eighth of his WHL career.

With that, the San Jose Sharks prospect moves into sole possession of third place on the Cougars’ all-time shutouts list.

Offensively, Prince George spread the scoring around.

Bauer Dumanski, Parascak and Jett Lajoie all found the back of the net,

while newcomer Shaun Rios notched an assist in his Cougars debut against his former team.

The Cougars (17-7-0-0) came out flying in the first period, firing a season-high 19 shots.

Dumanski opened the scoring at 13:22, ripping a wrist shot from above the right circle past goaltender Tobias Tvarznik to make it 1-0. Prince George carried that lead into the first intermission.

The second period was dominated by penalties, with the teams combining for 25 infractions through 40 minutes. Despite the parade to the box, the Cougars were the only team to capitalize.

Parascak buried his team-leading 19th goal of the season on a power play at 2:45, extending his goal streak to six straight games.

The frame also featured a spirited scrap between Patrick Sopiarz and Boston Tait at 14:45. The Cats led 2-0 after two.

In the third, Wenatchee pressed hard, but Ravensbergen shut the door. The veteran netminder turned away all 16 Wild shots in the final period to preserve the shutout.

Lajoie sealed the win at 19:29 with an empty-netter, putting the finishing touch on a big win.

The Cougars visited Kelowna on Wednesday, Dec. 3, before a two-game stand in Victoria against the Royals on Friday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 7. They’re back home at the CN Centre Dec. 12 and 13 for two games against Kamloops.

UNBC Timberwolves suffer defeat in weekend basketball matchups

DAN O’CONNOR UNBC

Athletics

The UNBC men’s Timberwolves wrapped up their weekend with a 98-71 setback Saturday, Nov. 29 at the hands of the Victoria Vikes.

Tyler Felt collected 19 points and Shadynn Smid hit for 15 as the Vikes earned the weekend sweep.

Danilo Gonzalez responded with a career-best 16 points for UNBC. Victoria led 31-23 after 10. The duo of Geoffrey James and Cameron Slaymaker each had seven for the Vikes. James added two assists and two steals to round out a solid opening quarter.

In the women’s game earlier Saturday, Viktoriia Filatova led UNBC with a gamehigh 25 points along with six assists and

four rebounds, but it wasn’t quite enough to stop the Vikes, who won 67-62.

Mimi Sigue paced the Vikes (6-5) with 19 points and eight rebounds.

Despite a valiant effort once again from the young, plucky Timberwolves squad, they couldn’t quite close the gap.

In Friday’s game, rookie Summer Toor, who joined the TWolves this season from the Duchess Park Condors

to continue her career playing in her Prince George hometown, provided a massive spark coming off the bench and collected a career-high 15 points in a 75-63 loss to the Vikings.

Up next for both UNBC teams is a single road matchup on Friday at TRU. They’ll return to the NSC for their first home game of the new year on Friday, Jan. 15 against UBC.

WENATCHEE WILD PHOTO

Life Events

Curtis Plunket Garland

February 8, 1937 - November 21, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Curtis Plunket Garland on November 21, 2025, at UHNBC, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Born and raised in Prince George, Curtis leaves behind a lasting legacy within the community he loved so deeply. A dedicated and visionary entrepreneur, he built several successful businesses, most notably Lomak Bulk Carriers Corp and Hester Creek Estate Winery.

Curtis was also known for his generosity and passion for philanthropy. He was committed to improving the lives of others through his support of community initiatives, including the Salvation Army Curt Garland Community Support Centre, the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, and various mental health programs.

Curtis is survived by his former wife, Nora Jean Garland; his life partner, Gail Hotell; his children, Jason Garland (Jeannie) and Carlene Heppner (Geoff); and his grandchildren, Mackenzie and Jocelyn Kerr. He is lovingly remembered by his step-grandchildren, Rachel Aylen, Scott Gilchrist, and Isaac and Shelby Heppner.

The family kindly requests privacy during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army Curt Garland Community Support Centre or Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation.

A celebration of life will be on Jan 31st at 1pm at the Prince George Civic Centre.

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Mario Fata. He is lovingly remembered and survived by his siblings Lucia, Nicola, Maria Antonia, and Luigi, along with many cousins, nephews, and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance was held at Christ Our Saviour Church, 4514 Austin Road, December 1st. The service was followed by burial rites at PG Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.

In loving memory of Steve Walker

July 5, 1960 - November 17, 2018

Time passes. Love remains. Yesterday, tomorrow and always.

Love Wendy

We are pleased to announce this year’s recipient of the Stephen Walker Memorial Bursary (2025).

Anna Giese of DP Todd has aspirations to become a student of Environmental Engineering. She intends to use her education to assist in the preservation of our Earth and its environment. We want to wish Anna good luck and success in her educational endeavours. The Taylor and Walker Families.

Christine Kowalski

August 23, 1938 - November 6, 2025

Christine Kowalski passed away peacefully November 6, 2025 in Abbotsford. Born in Vancouver, mom moved to Prince George in 1957 where she met and married the love of her life Peter Kowalski. Upon retiring, they moved to Abbotsford in 1993. Together, Mom and Dad were the foundation of our family. Dad predeceased mom in February 2023. Lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her sons, Glen (Lidia), Gary (Sandra), grandkids Ryan (Alexandra), Brianna, Larissa (Vincenzo), Mitchell (Mercedes) and Spencer. No service by request.

Cy Fortin

February 23, 1939 - October 13, 2025

Gary Armel Gurnsey

March 18, 1943 - November 7, 2025

Gary peacefully passed away at home at the age of 82. Born in Victoria, Gary spent the majority of his years in Prince George. Despite serious health challenges in his final years, Gary’s resilience in the face of adversity remained strong and his faith in God never wavered.

Survived by his wife Betty, brothers Colin (Laurel) and Deryl (Heather) niece Alysa, nephew Matt (Lena), stepsons Richard Lee (Debbie) and David Lee (Cindy), son Christopher (Karlyn) and daughter Katie Gamble (Jeff) and 14 grandchildren. The family would like to extend their appreciation to Gary’s amazing medical team: Dr. Joss, Dr. Gross, Dr. Pettersen and hospice nurses who helped us so much throughout his final days.

A memorial service will be held November 29 from 3 - 5 p.m., Westwood MB church.

Mario Fata

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Ian Trent Short

DECEMBER 20, 1950 - NOVEMBER 8, 2025

Jo-Ann

Hardy Prest (née Jenner/Yarmish/McDonald)

After a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s, Jo-Ann passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025. Jo-Ann was a friend, stepmother, grandmother and great-grandmother and was predeceased by her par ents, her first husband, her stepsister Margaret, her stepbrother William and her beloved husband Doug las Prest. Jo-Ann is survived by four stepdaughters Nancy Prest McNeil (Brad), Carol Prest (Ian Bailey), Susan Prest Chorney (Kevin) and Tracy Prest Malone (David), twelve grandchildren, eight great-grandchil dren and her stepbrother David Yarmish.

Robert (Bob) Reid

June 26, 1936 – October 16, 2025

Bob Reid passed quietly and peacefully into the arms of Jesus, who he loved. His Celebration of Life was live streamed from College Heights

ith heavy hearts the family of Ian Trent Short announces his sudden passing at the age of seventy-four in his birthplace of Prince George, B.C.

He was predeceased by his son Orin, grandson Conner, and parents Joyce and Evan. Ian is survived by his children Bree and Logan (Courtney); his five siblings; numerous nieces and nephews; extended family members and friends who will remember him fondly.

Ian lived an involved life full of passions and pursuits. He was recognized as a gifted musician from childhood. He found joy in reading—both fiction and non-fiction—and embraced speed reading to keep up with his curious mind. His passion for riding dirt bikes led him to serve as President of the club in Prince George. Ian’s enthusiasm for hockey showed in the way he organized ice times and teams. He was a longtime School District 57 employee, where he forged many meaningful friendships. His intelligence and wit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Ian lived and died on his own terms. He is now at peace and free from suffering. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements for a service will be announced in due course.

Jo-Ann was born December 22, 1941 at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver. Her parents Winnifred Louise Jenner (Skellet) and William Hardy Jenner divorced on his return from WWII in 1944. Jo-Ann lived in Vancouver until her mother married Joseph Yarmish and the family moved to Gibsons BC even tually returning to Vancouver.

Jo-Ann graduated from the commercial program from John Oliver High School and started her business career in 1959 at the Bank of Montreal. Jo-Ann married Robert Gary McDonald in 1963, divorced in 1968. In 1972 Jo-Ann joined Revenue Canada and enjoyed a rewarding career eventually transferring to the Victoria office in 1980.

Jo-Ann’s outgoing personality and positive outlook on life, along with her infectious laughter, made her a joy to be around. Jo-Ann married Doug Prest in 1980 and they enjoyed twenty-seven years of mar riage, friendship, laughter and travel.

After Doug’s passing in 2008, Jo-Ann developed a close circle of friends however, Jo-Ann considered her greatest blessings to be Doug’s four daugh ters, her sons-in-law, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and Doug’s extended family. Jo-Ann enjoyed life to the fullest and will be dearly missed.

No service at Jo-Ann’s request. Flowers gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jo-Ann’s memory to the Salvation Army.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mcallgardens.com

Honouring those who have touched our lives

Classifieds

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS

NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM WOODLOT LICENCE W1199

Please be advised that Number 146 Holdings Ltd. is proposing to remove private lands from Woodlot Licence 298: N1/2, DISTRICT LOT 947, CARIBOO DISTRICT; and SE 1/4 and NE 1/4, DISTRICT LOT 941, CARIBOO DISTRICT. The total area of the private lands is 249.5 ha. The subject lands are located in the vicinity north of Hwy 16W and Cluculz Lake, adjacent to Finmore Road and Young Road.

Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to:

S.M. Forrest and Assoc. Ltd.

2113 Ogilvie St. S., Unit 201, Prince George, BC, V2N 1X2 by: January 20, 2026

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting;

Scott Forrest: sforrest@netbistro.com tel: 250-961-4880

Please be advised that Number 167 Holdings Ltd. is proposing to remove private lands from Woodlot Licence 1199: NW ¼, SW ¼, and SE ¼ of DL 7708 CARIBOO DISTRICT. The total area of the private lands is 194.1 ha. The subject lands are located in the vicinity east of Hwy 97N and south of the Salmon River along Kinney Road.

Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to:

S.M. Forrest and Assoc. Ltd.

2113 Ogilvie St. S., Unit 201, Prince George, BC, V2N 1X2 by: January 20, 2026

Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to.

Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting;

Scott Forrest: sforrest@netbistro.com tel: 250-961-4880

Notice is hereby given that Creditors and others, having claims against the Estate of the Deceased Eugene Fetterly, formerly of Prince George, BC, who died on September 5, 2022. All persons having claims against the estate are required to provide full written particulars of their claims to the Administrator c/o Sara Waldner 244 Carney street, Prince George, BC V2M2K1 on or before January 4, 2026. After which date, the Estate’s assets will be distributed, having regard only to the claims that have been received.

Sara Waldner, Administrator.

intensifies the effect. Lather up, people. If you get one that is moisturizing, it’ll soothe dry skin as well.”

• Medication labels can fade, so when you get yours, put a piece of clear tape over the instructions. This way, you’ll always be able to read the instructions.

• “During the holidays (the height of baking season for me), I keep a large plastic saltshaker filled with flour and a bit of dry rice. The rice helps the flour to shake out without getting clumped up, and I use it to dust cake pans, rolling pins, kneading boards, etc.” — W.F. in Canada

• “One of the household cleaners I prefer comes in a spray bottle, and it’s on the expensive side. I make sure to get all of the liquid out by adding some regular glass marbles to the bottle. It displaces the liquid up, ensuring it finds the bottom of the sprayer’s suction tube.” — T.H. in Mississippi

If you are having trouble with your car’s battery, follow this tip from B.D. of Virginia: “Disconnect battery terminals and clean with a wire brush. Reconnect and smear with petroleum jelly. The jelly will prevent corrosion and help keep the battery cranking all winter.”

• “Stack pucks in the holes of a cardboard soda six-pack carrier. Tell your coach. And to keep them bouncy, store them in your freezer (as long as your mom says it’s OK).” — via e-mail

* Here’s a reminder from J.E. of Colorado: “Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen -especially if you live in a snowy climate. Remember that sunlight reflects off white snow and it

* “When doing my holiday shopping, I carry a quart-size zip-lock baggie in my purse. I put all receipts in it, and I ask for multiple gift receipts to be put in the bag with the merchandise. I can keep it all together until after the holidays, so I always have a receipt handy if something needs to be returned or exchanged.” -- C.L.

• Keep the fog off your glasses by cleaning them with shaving cream. It will

* “I keep a cookie sheet by the door to hold muddy shoes and boots. No more moose tracks through the house!” -- R.S.

* On Dec. 15, 1945, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, in his capacity as Supreme Commander of Allied Powers in the Pacific, ended the role of Shintoism as Japan’s established religion. Shintoism included the belief that the emperor was divine.

• On Nov. 11, 1831, Nat Turner, an American slave and educated minister who believed that he’d been chosen by God to lead his people into freedom, was hanged in Jerusalem, Virginia, for leading a revolt with 75 followers through Southampton County, killing about 60 white people.

* On Dec. 16, 1998, President Bill Clinton announced his order of air strikes against Iraq, due to the country’s refusal to cooperate with U.N. weapons inspectors. Key members of Congress did not support the decision, accusing Clinton of using the strikes to direct attention away from his impeachment proceedings.

* On Dec. 17, 2003, “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King,” the final film in the trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novels, debuted in theaters. A tremendous

hit, it won 11 Academy Awards, and the trilogy became one of the highestgrossing franchises in cinema history.

* On Dec. 18, 1961, the Tokens’ version of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” became not just a No. 1 song, but a classic -- one of the most covered and most successful pop songs ever recorded. Sadly, a sequence of business arrangements that made millions of dollars for a handful of prominent U.S. music publishers yielded just a $1,000 personal check from folksinger Pete Seeger

to Solomon Linda, a South African performer who composed the tune.

* On Dec. 19, 1986, Michael Sergio, an actor and Mets fan who parachuted into Game Six of the 1986 World Series at New York’s Shea Stadium, was fined $500 and sentenced to 100 hours of community service for touching down on the infield with a “Let’s Go Mets” banner to the cheering support of more than 55,000 spectators.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Make your holiday preparations one step at time in order to avoid being overwhelmed and leaving things undone. That confusing family situation continues to work itself out.

• On Nov. 12, 1969, investigative journalist Seymour Hersh revealed the extent of the U.S. Army’s charges against 1st Lt. William L. Calley at My Lai, Vietnam, in a cable picked up by more than 30 newspapers, saying that “The Army says he [Calley] deliberately murdered at least 109 Vietnamese civilians during a searchand-destroy mission in March 1968, in a Viet Cong stronghold known as ‘Pinkville.’”

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Right now you are especially vulnerable to holiday scams that seek to take advantage of your generosity. Best advice: Check them out before you transfer any money.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Holiday plans get back on track after some confusion about the direction you expected to take. A potentially troublesome money matter needs your immediate attention.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Don’t put off making decisions about this year’s holiday celebrations, despite the negative comments you’ve been getting from several quarters. Do it NOW!

• On Nov. 13, 1979, Philadelphia 76ers center Darryl Dawkins leaped over Kansas City Kings forward Bill Robinzine for a memorable slam dunk that shattered the fiberglass backboard. His equally memorable comment on the move, which was not his last and the sound of which spectators likened to a bomb going off: “It wasn’t really a safe thing to do, but it was a Darryl Dawkins thing to do.”

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Ease this year’s holiday money pressures by letting your thrifty side guide you as you look for those perfect gifts that typically reflect your good taste and love of beauty.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) The upcoming holiday season gives the Big Cat much to purr about. Relationships grow stronger, and new opportunities loom on the horizon, just waiting to be pounced on.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your holiday preparations are on track. But you need to confront a personal situation while you can still keep it from overwhelming everything else.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) The holidays will bring new friends and new opportunities. Meanwhile, be careful to use your energy wisely as you go about making holiday preparations.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You’ll have a good handle on potential holiday problems if you delegate tasks to family members, friends or coworkers -- most of whom will be more than happy to help out.

• On Nov. 14, 1882, outlaw Frank “Buckskin” Leslie shot and killed Billy “The Kid” Claiborne, who had publicly challenged him, in Tombstone, Arizona.

• On Nov. 15, 1984, Baby Fae, a month old infant who received the world’s first baboon heart transplant, died at California’s Loma Linda University 20 days after the operation. Three other people had received animal heart transplants, but none survived longer than a few days.

• On Nov. 16, 2001, British author J.K. Rowling’s most famous and beloved creation, the bespectacled boy wizard Harry Potter (played by Daniel Radcliffe in his first major role), made his silver-screen debut in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” which went on to become one of the highestgrossing movies in history.

• On Nov. 17, 1903, the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party split into two factions: the majority Bolsheviks and minority Mensheviks. The Bolsheviks went on to become the Communist Party of the Soviet Union.

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

VIRGO (Aug 23 to September 22) A changing situation brings conflicting advice about how to go forward with your holiday plans. Your best bet: Make the decision you feel most comfortable with.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Tight financial matters ease a bit during this holiday season. But the sagacious Sagittarian is welladvised to keep a tight hold on the reins while shopping for gifts.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) There’s good news coming from a most unlikely source. And it could turn out to be one of the best holiday gifts you have had in years. Remember to stay positive.

5 simple holiday entertaining ideas

Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be overwhelming—sometimes the simplest ideas create the warmest memories. With a bit of planning and a focus on togetherness, you can host a festive gathering that feels effortless and enjoyable for everyone. Here are five simple holiday entertaining ideas to inspire your seasonal celebrations.

1. Create a Cozy Hot Beverage Bar

Set up a small station with hot chocolate, tea, coffee, or even mulled cider. Add toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, and festive sprinkles. Guests can customize their drinks, and it doubles as a warm, welcoming focal point. This works well for both adults and kids and requires minimal prep.

2. Host a Holiday Appetizer Potluck

Instead of cooking a full dinner, invite

guests to bring their favourite appetizer or finger food. You’ll end up with a fun variety of bites without doing all the work yourself. Provide a couple of simple staples—like a veggie tray or charcuterie board—and let the rest happen naturally. It keeps things casual and allows everyone to contribute.

3. Set Up a DIY Ornament Craft Table

A small crafting area is a great way to entertain guests of all ages. Provide clear ornaments, ribbon, paint pens, glitter, and small decorative items. People can create personalized keepsakes to take home. It’s interactive, affordable, and adds creative fun to any holiday get-together.

4. Play a Mix of Easy Group Games

Holiday-themed games like trivia, “Name That Tune,” or a simple gift

exchange game (such as White Elephant) add laughter without requiring elaborate setup. These games help break the ice and keep the atmosphere lively. They’re especially helpful if you have guests who don’t know each other well.

5. Keep Décor Simple but Warm

You don’t need elaborate decorations to set a festive mood. Use candles, string lights, fresh greenery, or a few classic ornaments arranged in bowls or vases. Even subtle touches—like holiday-scented diffusers or soft seasonal music—can transform your space into a cozy, inviting environment. With these simple ideas, you can host a memorable holiday gathering that feels joyful, relaxed, and truly connected, without the stress of overplanning.

Shipping gifts for the holidays can be a thoughtful and efficient way to connect with loved ones near and far, but it requires a bit of planning to ensure everything arrives safely and on time. As the season gets busier, postal and courier services often experience delays, so it’s wise to prepare early. Start by checking shipping deadlines for your chosen carrier and aim to send packages at least a week before those cutoff dates to avoid last-minute stress. Proper packaging is essential. Choose a sturdy box that allows enough space for cushioning materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam. Fragile items should be wrapped individually, and there should be no empty space inside the box that could cause shifting during transit. If you’re sending multiple items in one package, make sure each piece is protected and separated. Seal the box securely with strong packing

tape, and avoid using old or damaged boxes that may weaken under pressure. Clear labeling helps prevent mishandling or misdelivery. Print the address in large, legible letters, and include a return address. For extra peace of mind, consider purchasing tracking and insurance, especially for valuable or sentimental gifts. Many carriers also offer flat-rate boxes, which can be cost-effective for heavier items. If you’re sending perishable goods, confirm whether the carrier allows them and choose expedited shipping when necessary. For international shipping, double-check customs rules to ensure your gifts meet the requirements of the destination country. With a little organization and attention to detail, shipping holiday gifts becomes a smooth, reliable way to spread joy across the miles.

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