Prince George Free Press, February 20, 2015

www.pgfreepress.com | newsline: 250.564.0005

GAMES: What is the economic impact?P

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Team BC member Hayley De Jong competes in artistic gymnastics during the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Bogetti-Smith/Team BC

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BILL PHILLIPS | 250.564.0005 | [email protected] | www.pgfreepress.com

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Th e economic impact of the 2015 Canada Winter Games is tough to nail down exactly.

Games organizers, leading up to the Games, touted that the economic impact would be somewhere between $70 million and $90 million. Is that a realistic assump-tion? It should be considering that it is based on what previous Games have done.

Following the Games, the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance will conduct an economic impact assessment of the Prince George Games and the results likely won’t be pub-lished until July.

So how did previous Games do?Th e 2011 Games were held in Halifax,

likely one of the largest cities to host the Games at about 370,000 people.

Th ere were more than 3,400 athletes, coaches, and managers. Additionally, the host society was responsible for hosting nearly 900 VIPs, 76 games observers, 102 sport observ-

ers, and 515 offi cials.According to the Canadian Sport Tour-

ism Alliance calculations, in addition to the athletes, 6,700 parents, friends and family members visited during the Halifax Games. Th ere were nearly 48,000 tickets sold during the fi rst week of the Games and more than 30,000 in the second week.

Th e capital expenditures prior to the Games totaled $29.8 million.

“Th e combined capital, operations, and visitor expenditures directly associated with the event totaled $61.8 million, resulting in an increase in net economic activity (GDP) of $58.3 million in the province, of which $34.9 million occurred in the (Halifax) re-gion,” according to the report. “Th ese expen-ditures supported $40.4 million in wages and salaries in the province through the support of 1,112 jobs. In Halifax, 809 jobs were sup-ported by the Games, with wages and salaries totaling $26.5 million. Th e total economic activity (Industry Output) generated by the event was $131.0 million throughout Nova Scotia, with $92.2 million taking place in the

(Halifax region).”In 2007, the Games were held in White-

horse, likely the smallest city to host the Games with a population of 25,000. Th e event featured 2,600 athletes, and nearly 2,300 coaches, managers, artists and offi cials, the most ever for a Canada Winter Games.

“Th e combined total of the visitor ex-penditures, operational expenditures, and capital construction costs of the 2007 Canada Winter Games totalled $90.7 million and resulted in a net increase of Gross Domestic Product (GDP, or net economic activity) of $75.2 million throughout the host territory,” according to the economic impact study. “Th ese expenditures supported $51.8 million in wages and salaries and 1,124 jobs. Th e ini-tial expenditure generated over $10.8 million in direct tax revenue, and when accounting for the re-spending of the initial expenditure through the economy (indirect and induced impacts), resulted in the event support-ing $26.2 million in taxes. Th e total gross economic activity was estimated at $176.7 million.”

In 2003, the Games were in Bathurst-Campbellton, with a population of about 50,000 people.

“Th e combined spending of the operations, capital and visitors were estimated to be $38.7 million, which generated a total poten-tial economic activity of $70.4 million in the province,” according to the economic impact study. “Of this, $57.6 million occurred in the Bathurst - Campbellton region. A total of $20.5 million in wages and salaries were paid in the province, supporting more than 1,000 jobs. In the region of Bathurst - Campbellton, wages totalled $17.5 million and nearly 850 jobs.

“Th e total level of taxes received by all levels of governments as a result of the event was estimated to be $10.4 million, of which $4.6 million accrued to the federal govern-ment, $4.3 million to the province, and $1.3 million to the municipal governments in the cities of Bathurst and Campbellton.”

How does Prince George compare? We’ll have a better idea when the economic impact assessment is complete, likely later this year.

Bill [email protected]

What will the economic impact be?

Th e Prince George RCMP are reminding the public not to leave valuables in their vehicle aft er a string of smash-and-grab theft s over the last two weeks.

Since Saturday, February 7, the Prince George RCMP have received 29 reports of vehicles being broken into for the sole purpose of stealing valu-ables left in plain sight.

Wallets and electronic devices are among the items taken.

Th ese crimes have occurred in most areas of the community, during all hours of the day.

Th e Prince George RCMP believe that if all valu-ables are removed from the vehicle or placed in the truck in advance of your destination, you will not be the victim of this type of crime. Please take the necessary steps to protect your valuables.

If you have any information about these criminal off ences or who may be responsible, please con-tact the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477, online at www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca (English only), or Text-A-Tip to CRIMES (274637) using keyword “pgtips”. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers.

If you provide information that leads to an arrest or the recovery of stolen property or the seizure of illicit drugs, you could be eligible for a cash reward.

Police deal withsmash-and-grabs

Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressOlympic silver medalist at Sochi, Kelsey Serwa, right, checks out her story in the Free Press Daily - Games Edition on Saturday in Canada Games Plaza.

Read all about it


In Provincial Court on Dec. 31:

Walter P. Hall was found guilty of mis-chief, sentenced to 12 days in jail, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Hall was also found guilty of theft of property with a value less than $5,000, sentenced to time served of fi ve days in jail, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Hall was also found guilty of failing to comply with a proba-tion order, sentenced to time served of seven days in jail, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100. Hall was also found guilty of failing to comply with a condition of an undertaking or re-cognizance, sentenced to time served of 14 days in jail, placed on

probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $100.

Rian Johnston was found guilty of

unauthorized posses-sion of a fi rearm in a motor vehicle, placed on probation for one year, assessed a victim

surcharge of $200 and prohibited from possessing fi rearms for 10 years. Johnston was also found guilty

of possession of a controlled substance, placed on probation for one year and assessed a victim surcharge of $200.

Krisopher L. Kivi was found guilty of mischief, fi ned $1,500 and assessed a victim surcharge of $450.

Melodie J. Poliues was found guilty of failing to comply with a condition of an under-taking or recognizance and two counts of failing to comply with a probation order, sen-tenced to time served in jail and assessed a victim surcharge of $100.

In Provincial Court on Jan. 2:

Phillip T. Lazarre was found guilty of assault, received a conditional sentence of six months, was placed on proba-tion for 12 months and assessed a victim surcharge of $100.

In Provincial Court on Jan. 5:

Candace V. Bel-lam was found guilty of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of traf-fi cking, sentenced to one day in jail, placed on probation for 18 months, assessed a vic-tim surcharge of $200 and prohibited from possessing fi rearms for 10 years. Bellam was also found guilty of failing to comply with a condition of an under-taking or recognizance, sentenced to one day in jail, assessed a victim surcharge of $100 and prohibited from pos-sessing fi rearms for 10 years.

Know Your RightsC. Keith Aartsen

Criminal Defence LawyerWith over 30 years of experience, I can help you preserve your freedom, reputation and livelihood.

For an appointment call 564-4454980 Fourth Avenue, Prince George • aartsenlaw.com

?Are you new to Prince George?

?Have you delivered a baby in the last 3 months?

Or know someone who is pregnant?

www.welcomewagon.ca

Northern Region & Surrounding AreaCall: 1.844.299.2466

Call: Leandra Hooker-Armstrong [email protected]

Welcome Wagon has information and gifts to

present on these occasions. Visits are done by appointment

Failing to comply gets jail

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressTeam Alberta gets in a little time for texting at Canada Games Plaza on Saturday.

Huddling up

Trade is building stronger communities.As Canadian athletes unite to

link experience to excellence, the

Port of Prince Rupert is proud

to be growing opportunities and

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communities of northern BC.

Watch and share our video tribute

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Community AlertCommunity Alert

If you have information regarding these crimes call

CRIMESTOPPERS

WANTEDCrime Stoppers is asking the pub-lic’s assistance in locating the fol-lowing person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As of 0900hrs this 18th day of Febru-ary 2015, Julian Albert RADKE (B: 1987-05-15) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for BREAK AND ENTER, & 3 OTHER CHARGES. RADKE is described as a Cauca-sian male, 175 cm or 5’9” tall and weighs 65 kg or 144 lbs. RADKE has brown hair and brown eyes.

WANTED

WANTEDCrime Stoppers is asking the pub-lic’s assistance in locating the fol-lowing person who is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant. As of 0900hrs this 18th day of Febru-ary 2015, Lenora Louise BLUE (B: 1966-10-01) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for THEFT UNDER $5000 AND FAIL TO AP-PEAR. BLUE is described as a First Nations female, 165 cm or 5’5” tall and weighs 84 kg or 186 lbs. BLUE has black hair and brown eyes. BLUE should be considered violent.

Crime Stoppers is asking the public’s assistance in locating the following person who is wanted on a British Co-lumbia wide warrant. As of 0900hrs this 18th day of February 2015, Rob-ert Duncan MCDONELL (B: 1991-09-02) is wanted on a British Columbia wide warrant for ASSAULT PEACE OFFICER & 2 OTHER CHARGES. MC-DONELL is described as a Caucasian male, 178cm or 5’10” tall and weighs 102 kg or 225 lbs. MCDONELL has brown hair and blue eyes. MCDONELL should be considered violent.

Julian Albert RADKE

175 cm or 5’9” 65 kg or 144 lbs

Robert DuncanMCDONELL

178 cm or 5’10”102 kg or 225 lbs

Lenora Louise BLUE

165 cm or 5’5”84 kg or 186 lbs.


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A man and woman from Alberta remain in po-lice custody following an arrest made on Highway 16 East on Monday.

Th e North District Integrated Road Safety Unit along with North District Regional Provincial Traffi c Services, and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement, were conducting a road safety check supported by the mobile road safety unit (Alexa’s Bus) on the highway.

A man driving a red Ford F350 pulling a cargo trailer pulled up to the location. Aft er speaking with the man, RCMP members soon entered into an investigation and as a result confi rmed the truck and trailer he was driving had been report-ed stolen out of Alberta.

Th e 29-year-old man and his female passenger were arrested on scene and it was soon discovered that the man had a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest in relation to the dangerous operation of motor vehicle and numerous other charges stem-ming from an incident in Strathcona, Alberta.

David Allan Lenkewich and the 29-year-old woman were held in custody and are facing numerous charges including possession of stolen property over $5,000, possession of a controlled substance, and obstruction charges.

Lenkewich will be transported back to the province of Alberta where he will face these charges and more relating to the outstanding war-rants.

BC Hydro is advising Prince George residents that crews will be replacing power poles in Prince George over the next several months.

Th e work is part of BC Hydro’s maintenance program that will see the replacement of more than 12,000 wooden utility poles this year through-out the province to improve the safety and reliability of the electrical system.

BC Hydro maintains 900,000

wooden poles as part of its 56,000-kilometre electricity distribution system that deliv-ers power to homes and busi-nesses. More than 20 per cent of BC Hydro’s wooden poles have been in service for more than 40 years.

Over time, wooden poles weaken due to adverse weather, insects and wildlife. BC Hydro regularly inspects the old poles to determine their strength and will install new poles once they

reach end-of-life. Th e lifespan of a power pole is 40 to 50 years on average.

Pole replacements may require BC Hydro or its con-tractors to disconnect power. Crews take special care to avoid any unnecessary impacts to customers. However, if these maintenance outages need to be scheduled for safety reasons, BC Hydro or its contractors will let customers know in per-son, or by mail or phone.

Hydro pole replacement underway in region

Checkpoint nabs pair

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressThe Canadian flag is raised by an honour guard at City Hall to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the red maple leaf as the official symbol of Canada. The event was attend-ed by several dignitaries including MP Dick Harris, MLA Shirley Bond, Mayor Lyn Hall and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation elder Mary Gouchie.

Flag festivities


VICTORIA – Re-ducing income taxes for the top two per cent of wage earners cost the B.C. govern-

ment $230 million that should have gone mainly to middle income earners, NDP leader John Horgan says.

Horgan and NDP fi nance critic Carole

James focused on the measure in Tuesday’s B.C. budget to end the tax increase on income over $150,000 a year. Th ey acknowledged other measures to help low-income people

but Horgan said “the middle class was left behind today.”

Finance Minister Mike de Jong brought the 2.1 per cent increase increase on the top tax bracket in 2013, and also in-creased the corporate tax rate by one per cent in order to pres-ent a balanced budget for the 2013 election.

De Jong said Tues-day his commitment was to remove the personal tax increase aft er two years and this week’s budget fol-lows through on that pledge.

James said middle-income families are taking the brunt of rate increases for car insurance, ferry fares and BC Hydro, and the services available to them are declining.

“We’re seeing hall-way medicine. We’re seeing overcrowded classrooms. We’re seeing less support for seniors,” James said.

Horgan pointed to modest tax breaks for high technology and fi lm production indus-tries, while four times as much government assistance is going to resource roads to de-velop B.C.’s natural gas export business.

With a surplus near-ing $1 billion for the fi scal year ending in March, Horgan said his priorities would have included help for manufacturing in the forest sector to take advantage of a lower Canadian dollar.

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Budget aims to help low-income earners

VICTORIA – Expecting budget surpluses for the next three years, the B.C. government is ending the deduction of spousal child support from social assistance payments and providing modest benefi ts for other low-income earners.

A target of single parents and poverty advocacy organizations in recent years, the “clawback” of child support payments ends Sept. 1. Th at

is expected to leave about $32 million more over the next three years in the pockets of the parents who receive child support along with income assistance and disability payments, a benefi t to 3,200 families and 5,400 children.

Community Living B.C., respon-sible for developmentally disabled adults, gets an additional $106 million over three years, and $20 million is added to the general budget for income assistance. Caseloads for both are expected to increase and individu-al payment rates stay the same.

Th is is also the budget that ends a two-year increase of 2.1 per cent in tax on income more than $150,000 a year. Th e provin-cial income tax rate for that tax bracket returns to 14.7 per cent, which Finance Minister Mike de Jong said is part of the lowest personal income tax rates in the country.

At the low end of the income scale, the exemption from paying any personal income tax goes to the fi rst $19,000 earned, up from $18,000.

An early childhood tax benefi t begins April 1, with up to $660 a year for each child up to the age of six, designed to assist with child care costs.

Th is is also the year the prov-ince’s training and education sav-ings grant begins to be paid out for children who reach six years old. It is a one-time payment of $1,200 for children born since Jan. 1, 2007, to be placed in a reg-istered education savings plan.

De Jong said the current fi scal year is expected to fi nish with a surplus of almost $900 mil-lion, due mainly to better than expected personal and corporate income tax revenues, strong retail sales and a one-time adjustment

of federal tax payments.Aft er an additional $3 billion

to the ever-growing health care budget and $576 million more for education over the next three years, the surplus for 2015-16 is projected to be $284 million.

Tom FletcherBlack Press

NDP says middle class left out of budget

Tom FletcherBlack Press

Tom FLETCHER/Black PressFinance Minister Mike de Jong says B.C. may be the only province in Canada to balance its budget for the year ahead.


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Mother Nature just didn’t cooperate with long track speed skaters at the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

Warm temperatures forced organizers to implement a contingency plan and send 63 speed skaters and support staff to Fort St. John and use the indoor ice oval there.

“Exceptional athlete experience is our No. 1 pillar,” said Stuart Ballan-tye, CEO for the Games on Monday, adding that aft er a great day of racing on Sunday temperatures just weren’t cold enough to repair the oval.

Th at led to the suspension of racing Tuesday and then the eventual decision to move it to Fort St. John.

“Th e ability to rehab overnight and the pending forecast, and our pillar to make sure athletes have an exception experience, the ice oval is no longer safe to compete at this level,” Ballantyne said.

Th at meant enacting the contingency plan, which was budgeted for, and work began on get-ting the 63 athletes and 75 parents to Fort St. John. Th e athletes were fl own up Tuesday and others were put on a bus.

“Th e ice was fantastic (Sunday in Prince George),” said Christina Chenard, technical repre-sentative for Speed Skating Canada. “Unfortunate-ly the weather has not been on our side … We’ve used up all of our options. Th e only thing available to us, to ensure athletes can compete at the Winter Games, is to move to Fort St. John.”

Many of the people who were in Prince George working on the long track speed skating venue were from Fort St. John, so it was a return to familiar territory for them. Chenard said the oval in Fort St. John was ready for competition, so there

wouldn’t be too much preparation.Th e hope is that the long track speed skating

competition will be done today (Friday) and eff orts will be made to get those athletes back to Prince George today.

“We want the athletes to be able to enjoy the entire Games experience and some of that does involve activities that are available on Friday night (in Prince George),” said Chenard.

On Saturday, the athletes will board a plane again and head home.


Bill PHILLIPS/Free Press2015 Canada Winter Games CEO Stuart Ballantyne and Christina Chenard, technical representative for speed skating, announce that the speed skating events for the Games will be moved to Fort St. John due to the weather.

Long track skatemoved to Fort. St. John

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressSinger-songwriter Sarah MacDougall sings the title track of her new CD, Grand Canyon, on Wednesday night at Canada Games Plaza centre stage.

Grand Canyon


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Young athletes attending the 2015 Canada Winter Games may not realize it, but the experience is just like the big show … the Olympics.

Take it from Kelsey Serwa, who has been to both. With an Olympic silver medal from Sochi in ski cross to show for her eff orts, Serwa is also a Canada Winter Game alumni, having competed in the 2007 Games in Whitehorse.

“(Th e Games) are awesome for athletes who want to pursue the Olympics,” she said Friday before helping Team BC get pumped for the Games. “Th is is ex-actly what the Olympics are like. Th ere are so many similarities … transportation, the whole team environment, even food the way it’s all set up.”

It also gives athletes who are aspiring to higher levels a chance to see what how they stack up against their peers across the country.

In addition to all that, athletes get the opportunity to go watch, and cheer on their teammates.

Serwa is here giving some moral support to Team BC ath-letes and help get them ready for the Games.

And, any advice for the ath-letes?

“Just embrace the moment, live the moment,” she said. “It will go by really fast. Leave nothing on the table. Pour your whole heart and soul into the

competition so you can walk away from these Games know-ing you’ve done the best that you could.”

And, for Serwa, there is a bit

of nostalgia being at the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

“It’s really special for me to be here, because I’m reliving my 2007 experience,” she said.


Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressOlympic medallist Kelsey Serwa says attending the 2007 Canada Winter Games prepared her for the Olympic experi-ence.

Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressMaster of ceremonies for the TeamBC pep rally Friday afternoon, Cathy Johnson rallies the troops prior to the start of the 2015 Canada Winter Games. Johnson, an alumni from the 1993 Games in Kamloops, was also on the Team BC Mission Staff in the Sherbrooke Canada Games.

That’s the spirit

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Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressTeam BC members take part in a pep rally Friday prior to the opening of the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

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For Karisa Quinn, it’s a simple theory.“I like fl oor the best,” says Quinn, a member of

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When you’re 11 (“I turn 12 in April”) and 4-foot-six, falling from some of the apparatus is a concern.

“If you miss on the bars, you can fall. If you slip on the beam, you can fall,” she says. “On the fl oor, as long as you stay inside the boundaries, you’re OK.”

Karisa, who is from Vernon River, got started in gymnastics seven or eight years ago with a family connection.

“My dad drove my sister in to see what this big new building was about. She started gymnastics, and then so did I.

“I really enjoy it.”Th e Canada Winter Games is her fi rst big event,

and she’s enjoying her time in Prince George.“It’s been really good. We walk around the

Athletes Village and the Plaza and meet some of the other athletes. Tomorrow (Wednesday), I think we’re going to the mall.”

Karisa’s music for her fl oor exercise is an in-

strumental version of Th e Devil Went Down to Georgia by the Charlie Daniels Band.

“My coaches picked the music, and I really like it. I’ve been doing fl oor to it for about two years now.”

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Karisa keeps it simplewhen it comes to gymnastics apparatusAllan [email protected]

Allan WISHART/Free PressPrince Edward Island gymnast Karisa Quinn goes through her floor exercise Tuesday eve-ning at the Northern Sport Centre as part of the individual all-around finals. Quinn, 11, is the youngest member of the PEI team.

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People are descending on Prince George to take in the 2015 Canada Winter Games, but while they’re here, why not encourage visitors to look for a job here?

Th at’s the goal of the Northern B.C. Career Zone located in Canada Games Plaza and of-fi cially opened by Jobs Minister Shirley Bond on Saturday.

“Th e Northern BC Career Zone will provide Canada Winter Games attendees with the tools and resources to consider life in B.C.’s booming northern communities and the full range of in-demand career options available to them there,” Bond said.

Team BC athletes, Olympics silver medallist Kelsey Serwa, and Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris were also on hand for the open-ing.

With an estimated 2,400 athletes and 15,000 visi-tors attending the 2015 Canada Winter Games in Prince George, the Northern BC Career Zone will showcase B.C.’s northern communities as a great place to go to college and university, train, and

raise a family while supporting the labour market needs of businesses in the North, Bond said..

Youth who are just beginning to think about po-tential careers and adults looking for fresh options will be connected with WorkBC’s labour market information, job opportunities, tools and services. Interactive, hands-on activities enable participants to try their hand at diff erent skills, explore careers,

Career zone aimed at Gamesget advice and start planning for the future and use WorkBC’s new career-planning tool My Blueprint Builder.

Th e Northern BC Career Zone feature WorkBC.ca, Find Your Fit,

the Industry Training Authority, Initiatives Prince George, the Uni-versity of Northern British Columbia and College of New Caledonia and careers in the BC Public Service will be highlighted.

Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressJobs Minister Shirley Bond opens the Northern B.C. Career Zone.

Th e province, the Canadian Para-lympic Committee, and ViaSport have kicked in $735,000 towards accessibility programming.

Th e three have entered into a $335,000 Northern Sport Acces-sibility 2015 partnership ($290,000 to be provided by the province) to help build more inclusive northern communities by developing a new program delivery model that has the potential to serve other regions.

A collaborative roundtable will bring together representatives of multiple sectors to develop a “made in the North” accessibility plan aimed at getting more northerners with dis-abilities involved in sport. Th e plan, to be implemented over three years by a dedicated sport accessibility coordinator housed at Pacifi c Sport Northern BC, will connect people with programs. Th e position will be further supported by an equip-ment grant program and technical resources.

As part of the initiative, the

Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) will invest $45,000 to support long-term athlete development, from active start through learn-to-play stages. Th is funding will enhance ex-isting service delivery while also pro-viding new resources to communities that do not currently have access to sport development programming for persons with diff erent abilities. Th e CPC will also provide in-kind contri-butions to train teachers and coaches in the Fundamental Movement Skills curriculum, as well as increasing awareness about how to get persons with diff erent abilities involved in sport through the Changing Minds, Changing Lives initiative.

In addition, the Government of British Columbia will fund up to $400,000 annually to expand the Aft er School Sport and Arts Initiative (ASSAI), providing aft er school sport and arts programming for children with a disability. Th e funding will be available to ASSAI communities to support transportation, additional

staff , specialized equip-ment and staff train-ing that will meet the specifi c needs of these children.

Accessibility funding announced

Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressRobert Cinq-Mars of the Sugar Shack delivers some frosty, tasty treats at the Canada Games Plaza Saturday afternoon.

Sweetening up the Games


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Bill PHILLIPS/Free PressHockey player for Team BC, Micah Hart, had the honour of carrying B.C.’s flag during the opening ceremonies for the 2015 Canada Winter Games. “It’s a huge honour,” she said. “The Games are here in our own province, to lead Team BC, it’s amazing.” She said she was “definitely surprised” she was picked.

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As I write this, it’s Wednesday morning, the start of Day 6 of the 2015 Canada Winter Games, and I already feel like I’ve dealt with two weeks’ worth of stories.

I can only imagine what I’ll feel like on March 2.I have talked to athletes from Nunavut, Prince Edward Is-

land, Manitoba, Alberta and Ontario for direct interviews, and chatted with coaches, team offi cials and event offi cials from across the country.

I’ve been chased out of an offi cials’ trailer at long track speed skating and asked to keep quiet at archery.

I’ve had early mornings and late (for me at least) nights.And I’ve enjoyed it all, although my sleeping and eating

routines are taking a real kick in the head.I’ve even found time to cover some non-Canada Winter

Games things happening around the city.Th e last time I was in a city for an

event this big was Kamloops, and the 1993 Canada Summer Games.

Th at time, though, I was actually able to take two weeks of holidays during the games and volunteer at a couple of diff erent sports. I ended up spending one week at the baseball diamonds, doing some scorekeeping, and one week at basketball, doing scorekeeping and timekeeping.

Th e one thing I remember from those Games was one of the fi rst days at the basketball. I had arrived early for my next game, so I was walking around the top level of the arena, which I think was then still known as Riverside Coliseum.

As I was walking along, taking in the sights and sounds, I was met by one of the other reporters from the paper, a young lady named Darshan Lindsay.

She started the conversation by saying, “I know you’re on holidays, but can you please phone the offi ce.”

I, to this day, feel they sent Darshan because she was a very nice young woman, who was also quite petite, and they fi gured there was less chance I would (a) say no to her, or (b) hit her.

So I called the offi ce and it turned out to be just a minor problem where they couldn’t fi nd a specifi c program on my computer. I talked them through fi nding it, and went back to my scorekeeping.

Some people, especially the younger ones, may be wonder-ing why the offi ce didn’t just call me on my cellphone to get the information. Th is was 1993. Cellphones may have existed (but I doubt it), but they defi nitely weren’t something the average person had.

But back to this year’s Games in Prince George. I’ve not only talked to a lot of people from all parts of the country, I’ve also had the chance to see sports ranging from the familiar (curling and ringette) to the less familiar (archery and target shooting).

I’ve had the chance to visit a lot of the venues and heard nothing but praise from the athletes for them, including the Outdoor Ice Oval before Mother Nature intervened and sent everyone packing up to Fort St. John.

I can’t wait for the rest of the Games.

ALLAN’S AMBLINGSALLANWISHART

Games provides venueto meet all kinds of people

As many as 20 Conservative MPs may be on the hot seat in the latest round of political shenanigans involv-ing taxpayer-funded mail-outs.

Th is issue isn’t a new one as several NDP MPs got caught using taxpay-er-funded mail-outs for partisan political bumf.

And, the issue has been around prior to this government. And yet, however, no government seems to do anything about it other than ap-point committees to in-vestigate and harrumph mightily when the other guys get caught.

Th e latest foofaraw is about politi-cians using QR codes on their mail-outs that, when scanned, lead readers to a politically partisan website. MP mail-outs, which require no postage because they come from an MP, are supposed to inform constituents about what the government is up to, not be used as a campaign tool.

While Cariboo-Prince George MP Dick Harris’ name hasn’t surfaced in the latest dragnet, it should.

I received his latest missive in my mailbox this week and I didn’t need to scan a QR code to get the partisan boilerplate.

In the mail-out Harris is extolling the virtues of changes to the tax code and how, according to him, the family tax cut helps.

Fair enough, explain the program, how it works, and how it will benefi t constituents. Th at’s what the mail-outs are designed to do.

He even asks a poll question that isn’t even skewed to the answer he wants (tongue planted fi rmly in cheek, of course,) as Harris asks whether the government “should make the tax code fair for more families.” Respon-dents can answer “yes, fairness is important,” or “no, it isn’t an issue for me.”

Only closeted terrorists being radicalized by ISIS would vote against fairness being important … obviously.

But the part that got me was on the back of the mail-out.

Aft er a bit of a dissertation on the family tax cut and the universal child care benefi t, which is perfectly ac-ceptable, Harris launches into pure partisanship.

“Only our Conservative govern-ment is dedicated to putting money back into the pockets of hard working Canadians instead of spending it on wasteful and ineffi cient bureaucratic programs,” he writes. “Instead, the NDP wants to implement a costly one-size-fi ts-all approach to child care and Justin Trudeau has vowed to scrap the family tax cut if he’s given the op-portunity. Canadians can only count on the Conservative government to deliver real tax relief for families.”

If that isn’t partisanship, then noth-ing is.

Such comments are fi ne on cam-paign literature but have no place on taxpayer-funded mail-outs.

Partisan mail-outswhy isn’t Harris on the hot-seat?

WRITER’S BLOCKBILLPHILLIPS

Fan Base

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressLiam Taylor and his sister Ashley, both 7, come away from Duchess Park Secondary still smiling after rooting on athlete Joel Ewert at the Canada Winter Games on Monday. The Team B.C. wheelchair bas-ketball player is a neighbour and former babysitter of the Taylor children. Their mother, Christine, says the family’s known Ewert since he was an infant and they are all proud fans.

16 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.com


Th e recent provincial budget is as dull as many predicted it would be. Th ere is little to get excited about.

Health care and education are both given a modest increase for the coming year. As always there are far fewer dollars earmarked for those operations than those with a vested interest in seeing many more dollars devoted to their version of the Promised Land would like.

Th e budget brings out the muddled thinking many apply to the economics of government. An example frequently brought forth by the advocates for spending more of our tax dollars on education state our teachers are amongst the lowest paid in the country. Interesting, if true, but it is only one fact taken out of context and we need more information. Before a reasonable comparison can be made, we need considerable additional information. For example, what is the value of the benefi ts they receive as part of their compensation? Do all provinces demand the same number of hours be spent in the class-room? What is the total work compensation package?

Many health care advocates get caught in the same trap. Th ey are the ones continually crying for more money from the government for their par-ticular group involved in the monolith called heath care. For some strange reason, there are many who believe we should simply throw more dollars into the pot and carry on in the same way as we have in the past. Th ey do not stop to question how well the system is working. Th ey are not interested in silly things like effi cient delivery of service or any other change for the better. To them, change is bad and the status quo is good. Oft en they are so adamant about resisting change, they will suppress innovation and other progressive ideas that might give a better service at a lower cost.

Th is province has a health care system that is rated as one of the best in the world. It is doing a better job of utilizing the assets and funds they have to work with than many other jurisdictions. Is it a perfect system? Far from it, but it is one government service that is trying.

Education and health care will continue to be the big ticket items. Both services are rife with ineffi ciencies, which diminish the eff ectiveness of every dollar spent. Th at is just a fact that those operating these systems will have to

continue to work at changing. Th ey do not have the luxury that a business has where the fi nan-cial statements illustrate the direction a company is going. Th eir task is much more subjective.

One of the silly and meaningless games played is bending statistics. It doesn’t do anyone, tax-payer or government servant, any good to divide the budget increase by the number of service recipients. Th at kind of exercise doesn’t take into account either serious problems or effi ciency gains within the system. It is just simple silliness and should be stoutly disregarded by thinking people.

We ask our governments to provide us with a host of services. We need highways and bridges.

We need to manage and protect our forest assets. We need to see to the fundamental needs of the impoverished and others who just cannot provide the basic necessities of life for themselves. We ask our government to provide these and many other services on the behalf of society and our concepts of fairness and compassion.

Th ere is no perfect provincial budget. It is a case of tak-ing the money we have and using it as best we can.

Special interests aside, this budget is a prudent one. It does not mortgage our future or depend upon some un-defi ned hoped for windfall. It is a dull budget but perhaps that is as it should be.

We’re halfway through the 2015 Canada Winter Games and the questions as to whether the Games are a success will be moving to the forefront.

So how do we measure whether the Games are a success?For some it will be whether the Games society records a profi t,

whether they brought in enough money to cover costs. For oth-ers, the measure of success will be whether enough people came to town to generate the $70 million in economic activity that the Games have promised. For some it will be whether the city “gets enough stuff ” aft er the Games, i.e. legacy items.

For some the measure of success of the Games will be whether the hotels and restaurants were full.

For others it will be whether the venues were adequate. Th e Prince George Ice Oval and the decision to move long track speed skating to Fort St. John will weigh heavily. However, un-like other Canada Games, the local organizing committee had a contingency plan and athletes got to compete. Th at hasn’t always been the case. And some will even measure the success of the Games on whether they had trouble parking in their usual public parking spot, whether they had to stand in line longer to get their extra-hot moccacino, or whether they had to wait longer than expected for the free shuttle buses.

However, there is really only one way to measure the success of an event such as the Canada Winter Games … whether the athletes competed. We must not lose sight of the fact that the real reason we’re doing all this is to provide an opportunity for the nation’s young athletes to compete on a national stage. Th e only measure of success we should concern ourselves is whether the athletes got here, got a chance to compete, and got back home again.

Granted, we’re only halfway through and the dreaded turn-around day when virtually every athlete, coach and support staff person involved with Games will go through the Prince George Airport (either coming or going) is tomorrow, but the athletic competitions are going on.

Th at makes the Games a success; everything else is secondary.

Boring budget OK

AwardWinner

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Editor

Ron DrillenGeneralManager

ONSIDEVICBOWMANWhere are all the federal politicians?

One of the big questions prior to the 2015 Canada Winter Games was whether Prime Minister Stephen Harper was going to attend

the Games. So far, it looks like he will snub Conservative-friendly Prince George and the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

Th e Canadian fl ag turned 50 years old on Sunday and the 2015 Canada Winter Games would have been a great place for Harper to commemorate the event. Th e Games are a truly national event and it would have been very appropriate for the prime minister to use the Games as a backdrop to celebrate the event. But no.

Th e only visiting dignitary Ottawa could rustle up was MP Dick Harris.

Pretty sad representation from our federal government. Perhaps if Prince George wasn’t such a safe couple of seats for the Conserva-tives, Harper and the boys would pay more attention.

Flag-wavermissed opportunity

Measureof our success

Friday, February 20, 2015 17www.pgfreepress.com

www.pgfreepress.com

Editor:I take off ence to the cartoon you posted

in your paper regarding vaccines.Your job as an editor is to record the news

as you see it, and yes, you are allowed your opinion too, but try expressing it fairly and respectfully.

Publicly manipulating others to accept your viewpoint by suggesting “stupidity” if they don’t agree is nothing short of childish, demeaning and abusive. I’m sure we’ve all had our moments of thinking such about one another but to publicly proclaim it is an entirely diff erent thing. Th ere are laws in place to protect minorities from such libel. Your cartoon was not funny at all but rather it instigated resentment/hatred toward people who chose not to vaccinate. I taught my children to be respectful of other’s regardless of who they were or what they believed, and calling somebody else, stupid, was seriously frowned upon for obvious reasons.

If I was to consider lowering my moral standard as you have done I could eas-ily change the wording in your cartoon to render the opposite suggestion. Instead of; ‘antivaccination proponents ignoring scien-

tifi c evidence in favour of dubious research and websites,’ try inserting; ‘vaccination en-thusiasts naively trusting scientifi c evidence conducted by pharmaceutical corporations.’ I suppose the next name/stone that you’ll consider tossing at me will be; ‘one of those conspiracy fanatics,’ right?

Put away your IQ measuring device and consider some facts.

No one person has access to the en-tire fi le cabinet containing all of the data revealing vaccine research, including any potential shenanigans that could very well have gone on in due process; therefore, we must choose whether or not we are going to believe these reports to be unbiased and authentic.

And so it all boils down to one’s trust, and trust is relevant to one’s experiences in life. No doubt that we’ve all benefi ted from the pharmaceutical industry in some form but some people’s experience with the business structure of big corporations and governing powers reveals ‘caution … drive with care.’ Suffi ce to say that there are those, includ-ing some medical professionals, who do not share your level of confi dence in the phar-maceutical industry, hence why one should

consider a broader source of information when researching vaccines.

Furthermore, you don’t have to be the brightest crayon in the box to make a mark in this life; a positive contribution to mankind. I may not measure up to your particular standard of intelligence but I do have abilities and personal convictions.

I am over 60 years of age and have been a natural health advocate and avid researcher for over 30 years. Needless to say; I have ex-perienced and survived enough challenges in my life time to warrant a better character reference than what you portrayed in your stupid cartoon.

Still, I dare not call you stupid as did the medical peers of Dr. Ignaz Philipp Sem-melweis when he sounded the alarm back in the 19th Century regarding hand washing and the spreading of infection. Surprise, surprise, now the entire medical profession endorses the practice.

Furthermore, I have thoroughly re-searched the eff ectiveness and safety of vaccines and I do not share your viewpoint that they are safe and eff ective at all. My understanding of how the immune system works suggests to me the opposite, that this

method of attempting to protect the body from potentially, harmful micro-organisms is ineff ective and dangerous.

I have a few questions for you Mr. Edi-tor; just how much homework have you personally conducted regarding vaccines? I dare not call you stupid but do you know the origins of these so called solid scientifi c studies? Are you aware that not one of them was conducted by our own government or even by an agent totally independent of the company involved? And what is your per-sonal experience regarding the eff ectiveness and safety of these vaccines? Have you ever considered a victim’s testimony of a vaccine that had gone wrong?

Th e bottom line is; one choosing to research outside the perimeter of those so called, solid scientifi c studies should not be construed as ‘stupidity’ at all, but rather as, ‘due diligence,’ in my opinion. I am personally motivated to care because it not only involves my grandchildren but also the health and welfare of billions of other little innocent babies.

I hardly call that a symptom of, ‘stupidity.’Gary Kibsey

Prince George

Editor:It almost goes without saying that last week’s car-

toon, that called anti-vaxers “stupid,” was extremely off ensive to me and a huge portion of the population. It really doesn’t matter how right you think you are and how stupid you think we are, it is still wrong for a newspaper, which has the very important job to provide information that is impartial and balanced, to take part in the ever-growing movement to try to humiliate and denigrate fellow human beings.

Th e Toronto Star is currently under scrutiny for printing an article that detailed some young women that had disastrous side eff ects from the Gardasil vac-cine. I have two thoughts regarding this: these articles need to be written because terrible things are happen-ing and people need to have a voice.

Secondly, it is not articles like this that damage the authorities’ reputations, it is the “authorities’” staunch refusal to even entertain the idea that there could be a problem that ruins their own reputation. Th e vaccine compensation program has paid out millions of dol-lars to families who have been damaged by vaccines and in the other breath they deny that these things take place.

A court in Italy has just ruled that a vaccine has caused autism. China stopped vaccinating before three years of age because they were concerned about the large number of infants dying from SIDS. Th eir SIDS rate plummeted following this. In the United States, right now, there are former Merck scientists that have come forward to say that they were pres-sured to take out pertinent data in their study that showed an increased risk of autism in African-Amer-ican children. In this side of the world, one out of 50 boys are now autistic and the “authorities” swear it is not the vaccines. Despite the fact that vaccines have never been studied in conjunction with each other, as they are given. Despite the fact that there have never been double blind-placebo controlled studies, the authorities swear that it is not the vaccines.

Other countries take a balanced view, a scientifi c view, that questions and tries things. Th ey don’t seem to have this desperate need to decide what the answer is before they have looked. Not North America.

I don’t think there are many families out there that choose not to vaccinate on a whim, or because it is the in thing. I think you would fi nd families that have spent many hours researching, reading the Cochrane Review, going through public health records. Th ere is nothing we would love more than a magic vaccine to take away our ails, but the real truth is that it is a balancing act. If you look through the public records you would see that the diseases that are vaccinated for had plummeted to almost where they are today before the vaccines came out. Th is is public record. And although I believe this is true, I don’t doubt the fact that they provide some, albeit short and imperfect protection, depending on the vaccine, the real issue is the deadly additives and subsequent side eff ects.

Before this turns in to another essay, I will wrap this up to say that many people prefer to leave the big health decisions up to their doctor. It is easier to sleep at night knowing that if something goes wrong it wasn’t their fault. A nice pat on the head and a lollipop is preferable to some serious research and decision-making.

Sadly they are still the ones stuck with the ramifi -cations, as I am with my decisions. Th is humiliation campaign was started by the authorities and have been taken up by the public and apparently newspa-pers as, what I believe, is a last ditch eff ort to keep the focus from where it should be. Th e only reason I can think of for perfectly average people, most of whom have never done an ounce of reading on their own, to take this fi ght up with such veracity is that they just really like lollipops. But I promise you, when things start really coming to light, I will not be calling these people stupid.

Raylene AndersonPrince George

Vaccination cartoon considered extremely offensive

Cartoon offendedmany who question vaccination

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressWheelchair basketball player Joel Ewert talks with media after com-peting Monday at Duchess Park Secondary. The 15-year-old Prince George athlete said he felt good playing but never allows himself to “get too comfortable” adding with a smile, “I always know I can do better.” The notes on his lap are pep talk words.

Media scrum

18 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.comPrince George - VOICES - Free Press

Friday, February 20, 2015 19www.pgfreepress.com Prince George - VOICES - Free Press

It’s not only athletes who experience sports injuries.

Just trying to madly jockey for position among all the local and out of town media out and about vying for the best spots at the various venues, I’m getting sore arms (from elbowing my competition out of the way) and a sore neck from straining and stretching it to see the action on the ice, snow and stage.

It’s only Week One of the Canada Winter Games and I’m already having joint fatigue and dry mouth (OK, that’s from cheering on Team B.C.) but whatever.

I too have had my wins and losses.

I scored with an “ex-clusive” interview with a very gracious skip Matt Hall of Team On-tario on Tuesday at the P.G. Golf and Curling Club (during the round robin event) and in the same curling vein, I got to see Th eatre North West’s top-ranking play, Th e Black Bonspiel of Wullie MacCrimmon. Interestingly, the actors in this play actually practised their curl-ing skills by throwing rocks down the ice at the same venue where I spent Tuesday morn-ing.

But I lost out on some entertainment at the Lheidli T’enneh Pavillion because the artists were performing aft er my bedtime (10 p.m.). And I’ve also lost my favourite leopard glove (reward off ered for anyone who fi nds it) while juggling my cam-era, my toque, my scarf, my Canada Winter Games event program and my notebook and pen.

It’s been a challenge.If only there were

three of me – and there soon may be if I con-tinue to sample all the delicious food that our local eateries are put-ting out all over town to tempt the discerning tastebuds of visitors to the Games. Anyway, I need at least two more of me to go to all the sports events and stage shows that I’d like to see and which my edi-tor expects me to cover

AND to attend the many arts and cultural activities and displays at various venues.

I guess I could do it if I forfeited my sleep. But that might wind me up at the very well-equipped Mobile Medical Unit – still that could be an interesting fi rst-person account and interview with at-tending staff .

So despite the senti-ment of the season (Valentine’s Day), it’s not all been hearts and roses for me as a roving reporter at the Canada Winter Games. Some-times when it’s taken me 20 minutes to cross over Victoria Street aft er visiting Athletes Village or when I can’t fi nd a parking spot any-where to attend a sports event. Or when I can’t see (or get near enough to get good photos) the acts on stage at the Canada Games Plaza because there’s 3,000 people to wade through – it’s then I feel as some Calgarians must feel during the “invasion” of people coming to see the Calgary Stampede. I have the urge to go home and pull down the shades.

But I don’t, because the excitement in the air and the enthusiasm of the crowds gives me

another shot of adrena-lin. Th at keeps me and I think all of us going.

Th at and the knowl-edge we have only one week left to enjoy this wonderful experience and watch not just the athletes but our city bask in the spotlight.

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Teresa MALLAM/Free PressTeam B.C. athlete Sterling Middleton looks up at a young fan dur-ing an autograph signing session at AimHi on Saturday. The Big Brothers Big Sisters event included an appearance by the Canada Winter Games mascot Nanguz and a friendly floor hockey game.

Meeting the fans

20 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.comPrince George Free Press

Prince George Chamber of Commerce

Th e following have put their names forward for Board of Directors

Corey Naphtali Corey Naphtali has been on the Chamber’s Board of Directors for

the past 2 years and is excited about the opportunities for businesses in Prince George in the coming years. Corey is an audit partner at KPMG LLP and has been serving the business community since moving to Prince George from Vancouver in 2006. Corey is actively involved in the community, currently serving as the Vice-President of the Kiwanis Club of PG and Treasurer for Pacifi cSport Northern British Columbia. He can be seen playing indoor and outdoor soccer throughout the year participating in the NCSSL and BCISL. Corey spends a lot of time with his very supportive wife (Katie) and three fantastic kids (Isabelle, Oliver and Owen). He would bring a unique voice to the executive at the Chamber, speaking on behalf of local business and families, and contributing to the success of the community.

Bill Quinn A professional executive coach, Bill brings with him over thirty

years of experience in natural resource management in northern BC and six years coaching managers to be leaders. His focus has changed to Growing people & organizations. As a coach, he helps managers become leaders both professionally and personally with over 85% of his clients having moved up to more senior leadership positions or moving their businesses forward at an accelerated pace. As a change leader, his work in the BC Government focused on steering major provincial initiatives and helping people adjust to the new challenges.

He is very proud of the three daughters he and his wife have raised, especially of their independence and their desire to make a diff erence.

A sole proprietor, Bill has enjoyed representing the majority of the Prince George Chamber’s membership. With the future business oppor-tunities happening in the north, he sees a need for local businesses to be positioned to take their rightful place as Prince George is on the edge of becoming a player in the global market. As a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, a key accomplishment has been being instrumental in creating the Chamber’s new Strategic Plan. In addition, helping to crystallize the Chamber’s initiative to managing the business licensing process has been very gratifying.

Bill looks forward to another opportunity to help move the small business community forward as a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Cindi Pohl Being born and raised in Prince George I want to help give back to

the community that has provided me with so many unique opportuni-ties. Prince George is a great city to live and work in, and is constantly improving because of the hard work done by so many outstanding individuals and organizations. Th e skills I have developed by studying and working in the North will help me contribute to this eff ort while focusing on the vision created by the Chamber. My involvement in economic development, business development, and community engage-ment will help me to strengthen the relationships between the Chamber and its many stakeholders. I would like to ask for your input and support so that I can best represent the interests of the business owners and the citizens of this city.

Lorna Wendling, CA Lorna Wendling is a senior manager with Deloitte LLP and has

been practicing in public accounting for over 20 years, primarily with private companies. Lorna has been involved with the Chamber since she arrived in Prince George in 2011 as a Director and has been an active member in the Chamber’s advocacy, communication and fi nance committees. She has recently stepped in as interim chair for the Com-munication’s Committee. Prior to Lorna’s arrival in Prince George, she was involved with the Chamber of Commerce in London Ontario for a number of years on both the Federal and Provincial Aff airs and the Municipal Aff airs Committee.

Currently Lorna is the Chair of the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum Board, is a member of the Northern BC United Way Commu-nity Impact and Investment Committee and a mentor with the United Way’s “Mentor Me” program. Past community activities have included sitting as a board member with the Canadian Manufacturers and Export Association – South Western Ontario, Lung Association – Oxford County, Big Sisters – London and District, London Community Resource Centre and St. Anthony French Immersion Catholic School PAC and a member of the Canadian Association for Family Enterprise.

Lorna resides in Prince George with her husband and two daughters. Her interests include painting, hiking and being a hockey mom.

Kara Biles, CHRP At this point in my career, my goals gravitate around growing, giving

back and making a diff erence in our community. I was born and raised in PG, am familiar with the many facets of both business and HR opportuni-ties and challenges in our area and am passionate about Northern BC and working to make our community a better place to live and work. I am a Certifi ed HR Professional (CHRP), and a graduate of the HR Management Certifi cate (HR Major) and Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing at UNBC.

I began my career as an HR Business Unit Assistant with the BC Public Service Agency and continued to progress as the Project Coordinator - Marketing and Training, Northern Region, and then E-Learning Specialist in which I developed training programs to include 30,000 employees in 280 communities. During this time I was nominated for Deputy Minister and Premier Awards including Innovation, Customer Service Excel-lence and Partnerships with Stakeholders. In 2011 I was awarded the BC HRMA’s “Rising Star” – a prestigious award that recognizes an HR profes-sional who is “lighting the HR community on fi re”.

I then moved to the private sector as an HR Manager at Canfor, Isle Pierre and at the same time, began working as an Instructor in the HR Management program at CNC. I am now the Recruitment Coordinator with Canfor’s head offi ce in PG and continue to instruct part-time. In 2012, I was named one of the PG Chamber of Commerce’s “Top 40 Under 40” Finalists. As well, I am currently the Chair of the BC HRMA Northern Region Advisory Council and have previously served as an Advisor. I coach the UNBC JDC West HR business competition team and volun-teer as a Leadership Facilitator with the Canadian Cancer Society and other various causes in PG. I am a young and ambitious HR professional with broad experience in HR management and business best practices and have insight, innovation and fresh ideas with a high appetite to provoke change. I am committed to personal and professional excellence supported with continuous growth and I can assure you that as a Director I would bring value to the PG Chamber of Commerce and its members in growing and supporting trade and commerce encompassing economic, civic and social welfare.

Nathan ChilesBeing born and raised in Prince George I want to help give back to the

community that has provided me with so many unique opportunities. Prince George is a great city to live and work in, and is constantly improv-ing because of the hard work done by so many outstanding individuals and organizations. Th e skills I have developed by studying and working in the North will help me contribute to this eff ort while focusing on the vision created by the Chamber. My involvement in economic develop-ment, business development, and community engagement will help me to strengthen the relationships between the Chamber and its many stake-holders. I would like to ask for your input and support so that I can best represent the interests of the business owners and the citizens of this city.

Arvinder BillingsArvinder moved to Prince George from Delhi, India in 2002 and was

fi nalist for “2014 Top 40 under 40”. It has been a methodical process for him, beginning with understanding the Canadian social and business culture to initiating numerous successful business ventures over the years. He has been involved in real estate sales, restaurants, education consulting, settlement services and trucking in various capacities and lists strong business to business relationship building, intercultural communication skills, managing multi-departmental roles with strong background and understanding of diff erent business functional areas, as his strengths. His strong desire to help new Canadians settle and integrate into the Prince George both socially and economically was a key for him to be a part of the launch of the SD57 program six years ago. He says “It has been an amazing journey so far and fi rmly believe that Prince George is the best place to raise and grow a family”. Th at proac-tive community spirit (he is also actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce, the Punjabi Canadian Seniors Society, Sikh Vaiskahi Parade, Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society, the Innovation Central Society, etc.) brought him to the attention of the Chamber of Commerce and he was chosen as the as one of their six Consider Prince George ambassadors, using their personal stories to attract new Canadians to our city.

Tracey McCall I was raised in Prince George but my career took me to a variety of

communities across the province. In 2009 I was able to move back to my hometown to be closer to friends and family.

An experienced business professional I launched what is now MC3 Marketing Communications in 2011. In 2013 I completed a Master of Business Administration at UNBC. I work as a consultant assisting with business and marketing planning, implementation and the development of marketing material. I also enjoy teaching business courses at CNC and UNBC including: Human Resources, Organizational Behaviour, Business Fundamentals, Marketing and Digital Marketing.

I was on the Prince George Chamber board previously but stepped down to avoid a confl ict of interest. My participation was very reward-ing and my contributions helped to advance the Chamber’s objectives and good work. I would love to serve once again for the Prince George Chamber of Commerce.

Executive Nominees

Friday, February 20, 2015 21www.pgfreepress.com Prince George Free Press

Alex McIntosh Originally from Ontario, Alex Mcintosh has an extensive history

with the YMCA as a director, community connector and manager of brand awareness. He spearheaded many charity drives and was an active volunteer for the YMCA. Besides his work with the YMCA, Alex is also a former President of the Barrie Rotaract Club and was a board member of the Kids’ Sport Branch in Simcoe Muskoka. In Prince George,

he helps local businesses while working for the Prince George Free Press. He is also a member of the

Yellowhead Rotary and volunteers for the YMCA Strong Kids’ cam-paign. He is excited to help and

promote growth and prosperity in the Prince George community.

Paul MercerPaul Mercer is a RBC Commercial Account Manager with the Com-

mercial Finance Team in Prince George. His specialty is working with the Health Care and Business Professionals. He holds a Masters in Business Administration Degree from the University of Northern BC.

Paul is from the North Coast Region of BC. He was born in Terrace

BC and currently resides in Prince George with his wife Laurie. Both Paul and Laurie moved to Prince George in the fall of 2012 to complete their studies at UNBC. Paul graduated from UNBC May 2013 and Laurie will graduate with a Bachelors of Commerce degree in May. Th e move to Prince George has been positive on many levels for Paul, Laurie and their children.

Russ PetersonI am 37 years old and have a wife of 6 years and two children 3 & 5

(Boy and girl). I moved to Prince George with my Family when I was 15 years old. Shortly aft er graduating high school I started working for Finning as a shop helper (pushing a broom, emptying garbage, etc.). A couple of years into this the economy slowed and I was layed off . I took that opportunity to move to Vancouver and fi nd a job down there. Aft er a couple years an opportunity came in Prince George with Finning again. Th is time on the sales side of the business. I spent the next 10 years working my way up through the ranks in Finning to today where I am responsible for our Prince George regional branch. We have ap-proximately 160 staff in Prince George and we are a regional center for Finning servicing the Forestry, Construction, and Mining industries.

Mauricio Plata I have a Bachelor degree in Marketing, a specialization in Business

Management and a Diploma in Top Management; I have over 20 years of working experience in business development, marketing and customer service; I have been very successful leading top performing teams by coaching, developing, empowering and recognizing my team members.

I am very passionate about social development activities; in the lower mainland I volunteered for 4 years with the Colombian Community of BC, starting in 2006 as Vice-President, and as President from 2007 to 2010. For two years I was a member of the Social Issues Committee for the City of Burnaby.

As a family man I understand the importance of caring, respect, and the need to listen and understand others’ opinions and needs.

In PG I work as a Customer Service Team Manager for FortisBC and I am the President of the Latino Canadian Associacion of Nothern BC.

John Reed John works at the College of New Caledonia as the Operations Man-

ager, School of Trades and Technologies; he is a strong advocate for the need for skilled workers in the North and to ensure that the appropriate training is supplied not only in the form of apprenticeships but also in general business studies.

John is an avid supporter of local business and in the twenty years that John has lived in Prince George he has worked in operations and busi-ness management for manufacturing companies and has been an active member of the business community.

John is actively involved in a variety of sports and has served as a director for Prince George Youth Soccer for over 15 years, serving in numerous executive rolls.

Currently John is a Director for the British Columbia Soccer Associa-tion holding positions as the Northern Liaison and the Chairman for the Referee Committee.

Sagar SaxenaLiving in India during his formative years, Sagar completed his

Bachelor’s of Business Administration from the Pacifi c College of Com-merce and Management in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Determined to expand his knowledge of international business, Sagar strategically shift ed to the United Kingdom in 2007 where he completed a Masters of Business Administration from the Cardiff Business School at Cardiff University.

Passionate to apply a new approach to conventional business models, in 2009 Sagar returned to India and began his own agriculture-based company, Caravan O Herbs (www.caravanoherbs.com). With the vision of supplying traditional medicinal herbs to the global market, from 2009 to 2013, Sagar uniquely positioned himself within a hyper competitive market littered by imperfections. He initiated corporate social respon-sibility projects to combat unethical business practices and unreliable supply chains, eff ectively carving a niche for Caravan O Herbs within India, Germany, Poland and the United States.

Inspired by his interaction with the international business world, in 2014 Sagar shift ed to Canada where he presently resides. In 2014, he joined the Offi ce of Research at the Uni-versity of Northern British Columbia, where he is responsible for Marketing, Partnerships and New Initiatives. While promoting and creating new synergies for UNBC research, Sagar is committed to exploring potential mod-els of sustainable economic growth within the agriculture community. Genuinely committed to the well being of the North, Sagar has the unique opportunity to infl uence industry, collaborate with local and global companies and develop greater community, within Prince George, the region, and Canada as a whole.

Roberta StewartI was born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and moved to

Prince George in 2003 to article at HSJ. I am an avid hiker – I have hiked the West Coast Trail and the Chilk-

oot Trail and I am planning to hike the Rockwall Trail in Kootenay Na-tional Park this summer. I have completed six marathons (one of which was up and down Mount Robson) and over a dozen half marathons.

I volunteer with the YMC as a run leader for the Learn to Run and Learn to Run Trails clinics.

I was called to the Bar in May 2003 and became a partner at HSJ in January 2009. As a general solicitor, I practice law in the areas of real property, wills & estate planning, estate administration, commercial loans, incorporations and corporate transactions and buying & selling businesses.

I run HSJ’s Vanderhoof and Fort St. James branch offi ces and travel to those offi ces once every week.

I live on 4 acres west of Prince George with my husband, Steve, who works for BC Hydro, and our cat and dog.

Rita Wiebe A mature, well-seasoned individual, married with two grown chil-

dren. Born and raised in Quesnel and moved to PG in the late seventies. Th ought I had outgrew PG in the mid Nineties and moved to the Oka-nagan. Realized that I missed the Northern spirit, which was defi nitely not present in the Kelowna and moved back to PG. I now have a whole new appreciation for our region and plan to stay.

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On Friday, Feb. 20 the Boom Booms perform on stage at the Royal Ca-nadian Legion at 7 p.m. followed by a dance with local talent Deuces Wild at 9 p.m. On Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Good for Grapes puts on a show and at 9 p.m. Deuces Wild (in case you missed them or want to see them again) plays another dance at 9 p.m.

Be sure to catch a heart-warming stage performance of Jake’s Gift , an award-winning play about a Second World War veteran’s return to Juno Beach on Feb. 28 with shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Starting at 7 p.m., Friday Night Mic at Cafe Voltaire, Books and Com-pany, features jazz with Eric Tompkins on guitar, Phil Hamelin on trumpet, Kenny Ogilvie on bass and Justin Gendrea on drums. Enjoy a cup of coff ee from the cafe as you listen to the amazing music of local talent.

On Saturday, Feb. 21 Will Stroet plays Artspace, above Books and Com-pany, at 2 p.m. At 5:30 p.m. enjoy the Boom Booms at the BCLC Cen-tre Stage One, then enjoy Tania Tagaq at 7 p.m. At Artspace at 8 p.m. enjoy Folky Strum Strum. On Sunday, Feb. 22 Joey Only performs at BCLC Centre Stage One at 5:30 p.m. fol-lowed by Chad Brownlee at 7 p.m. and Rosewood’s Diary at 8 p.m.

Th e cutline on a photo about new ramp instal-lations downtown had the wrong information. It should have read: Ross Pullan, CNC Carpenty, Allison Akehurst, owner Embroidery owner, Ralph Allan, PG accessibil-ity committee, Lorraine Young and Ken Biron, Handy Circle Resource Society.

LEGION SHOWS

FOR THE RECORD

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COLDSNAP Black Bonspiel on the button

Th ank heaven for this wonderful and witty play about Satan, soles and souls – and the power of suggestion.

Th eatre North West has truly outdone itself working with a time-honoured play by W. O. Mitchell and bringing together a talented team of actors and artistic people who deserve a huge standing ovation.

Th e surprise special eff ects, sound, lighting and costume design are real attention-getters. I was fascinated to see during intermission the clever and very effi cient transformation of the stage into a convincing curling rink.

William Vickers is, as always, brilliant in his lead role. As a 1930s growly but gregarious small-town Alberta shoemaker, Wullie Mac-Crimmon has a passion for curling and dreams of leading (well skipping) his team into victory in the Brier. Vickers has taken on a Scots accent and “wily Wullie” personna with great skill and has paid careful attention detail.

Watch closely and see him perform his shoe-making duties, actually appearing to work with the soles of shoes and the tools of the trade.

His performance in Black Bonspiel is just one more reason why Vickers will be seen on the TNW stage again, and again.

Stefano Giulianetti is an extraordinary talent and while his character, “travelling salesman” O. Clutie – the devil – likes to blow hot smoke and fl ames, he really is a breath of fresh air on stage.

He is perfect for the role. He has precise timing (cue perfect with special eff ects) and well-paced delivery of lines. Giulianetti is “blessed” with a devilish smile and sly demeanour. And for just one instant he got me to believe – no, never. Not for this Anglican girl raised on tenets of the Church of England, for heaven’s sake.

Kirk Smith (for TNW Home Ice) as the Reverend Pringle is a fantastic foil for the devil. In one scene, in which there is a “heav-enly miracle” on the rink in a game between MacCrimmon’s team and devil’s team (a motley crew made up of hell raisers Marie Antoinette, Judas Iscariot and Macbeth), rocks land perfectly aligned in the house and Smith’s reaction has the audience in gales of laughter.

I enjoyed the performance of Deb Williams as Clock or “don’t call me Shirley” Brown. She’s a real team player – not just on MacCrimmon’s curling team but as cast mate too. Williams took care to shine at the right times (with sarcastic lines directed at misfi t curlers on the devil’s team) but never tries to steal the show.

Prince George actor Zarrah Holvick as Marie Antoinette brings a new hilarity to the monarch

who it is said suggested her starving subjects eat cake. Here, I once again have to applaud the costume mistress Marian Truscott and note that Holvick uses to great eff ect her outlandish cork curls white wig and voluminous dress.

Paul Herbert as Macbeth has to be one of the most delightful and spirited actors around.

I found myself laughing out loud as he spat out, in mock dramatic form, the famous quotes from Macbeth. A simply charming and fun performance.

Kim Kondrashoff as Pipe Fitting Char-lie Brown and Kent Allen as Malleable

(and henpecked) Charlie Brown are very good in supporting roles as MacCrimmon’s pals and curling mates. Nigel McInnis has a small role as Judas Iscariot, but he can always be relied upon for putting in a notable performance.

I will probably burn in hell for saying this but my evening spent with the devil himself was a riotous romp that I will never forget.

Bravo Th eatre North West. Th e Black Bonspiel of Wullie MacCrimmon

by W. O. Mitchell runs until March 4 at Th eatre North West. Tickets are at Books and Company. (Check the website www.theatrenorthwet.com for next season’s box offi ce options.)

My evening spent with the devil him-self was a riotous romp that I will

never forget

Teresa [email protected]

Theatre North West play a perfect Games companion

Courtesy Philomena HughesMacbeth (Paul Herbert) feels a sililoquoy coming on as skip Wullie MacCrimmon and curling mates Pipe Fitting Charlie Brown (Kim Kondrashoff) and Malleable Charlie Brown (Kent Allen) step back to allow the tartan-clad devil’s team member an opportunity to quote from Shakespeare.

24 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.comPrince George - COMMUNITY - Free Press

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Biathlete framed at Two RiversUnabashed pride in her niece’s

athletic achievement has inspired artist Mary Mottishaw to create a new work of art.

Her mixed media acrylic piece entitled Claire Keeps her Eye on the Target is on display at Two Rivers Gallery. It is dedicated to biathlon Claire Lapointe, one of four Prince George biathletes chosen for Team B.C. who are competing in the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

“When the call for artists came out, I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to honour Claire’s achieve-ment,” Mottishaw told the Free Press on Saturday at the opening reception of North: An Exhibi-tion for the 2015 Canada Winter Games at Canfor South Gallery.

“Claire has such dedication and passion for this sport and I wanted to show that.”

For her part, Lapointe who was on hand for the reception, said she loves the work and is proud owner of the original.

“She gave it to me as a Christ-mas present,” said Lapointe.

Having honed her cross-country skills as a member of Caledonia Nordic Ski Club, Lapointe turned her athletic talents to shooting a target and a new passion was born.

“I just fell in love with this event,” she said. “My goal right now is to be in the top 10 for my sport. I’m in the top 16 now.”

Recognizable by her winning smile and long, glossy dark hair, the beautiful biathlete says she’s really looking forward to compet-ing this week.

The 2015 Canada Winter Games exhibit at Two Rivers Gallery showcases work done in a range of media by artists from across B.C. It explores the title theme, life in the North, with focus on youth, sport, community and culture and also considers what the North means to us.

The gallery (located in the heart of the Canada Games Plaza) also opened a second new exhibit, Elapsed, in Canfor North Gal-lery featuring art works by Adad Hannah, Phillipa Jones, Marianne Nicolson, Ann Smith and Jennifer Pighin.

Both exciting exhibits will be on display until April 26.


Teresa MALLAMFree PressTeam B.C. biathlete Claire Lapointe with the piece she inspired entitled “Claire Keeps Her Eye on the Target” by artist Mary Mottishaw. The mixed media work is part of a new group exhibit, North: An Exhibition for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, which opened at Two Rivers Gallery on Saturday.

Friday, February 20, 2015 25www.pgfreepress.com Prince George - COMMUNITY - Free Press

Elvis Elite hit show

Tribute artist Steve Elliott has left the building – but there’s no doubt he’ll be back.

Last weekend, he performed his Love Me Tender shows at the Royal Canadian Legion. And I’m told the ladies - and men – have just about re-covered from his engaging, energetic, electrifying show.

Using his own vocals and a sound-track (usually Elliott’s wife “takes care of business” in this department but she couldn’t make this trip), the award-winning Chilliwack artist broke out in a sweat delivering dozens of Elvis Presley hits.

I have seen Elliott perform before and I’ve come to know he is dedicated to fans and respectful of the king of rock ‘n’ roll.

On Saturday, he came on stage in jacket and “earlier Elvis” loafers and, aft er the intermission he appeared during a dramatic drum-roll entrance in his “Live in Las Vegas” jumpsuit.

Elliott has a natural ease with the audience, honed over a decade as a tribute artist. He takes and fulfi lls requests and knows hundreds of songs by heart. He acknowledges people’s birthdays and anniversaries – on Saturday he led us in Happy Birthday song for a senior. He complimented two couples on their dance moves.

Because it was a Valentine’s Day concert, he sang lots of love songs recorded by Elvis – for me the best of the night was Can’t Help Falling in Love – as well as a few Roy Orbison and Neil Diamond numbers.

And he had the crowd in a frenzy

with a lovely and long-g-g Sweet Caroline.

Th en to my utter surprise and delight, he also gave us an absolutely heart pounding rendition of Sea of Love (a hit by Th e Honeydrippers and Del Shannon) and one of my all-time favourites, a song I haven’t heard for many years.

At one point, a woman appeared in front of the stage and asked Elliott for the yellow chiff on scarf he had tucked in the neck of his heavily sequined white jumpsuit (a signature Elvis move was giving out scarves during his Las Vegas performances).

Elliott gracefully declined, saying: “It’s my last one... and I’ll get cold

(he laughs) – but I will give it to you at the end of the show, I promise.”

He kept his promise. Aft er the fi nal number, he quietly

sought out the elderly woman in the crowd and gift ed her the scarf. Th at is the kind of charm that Elliott exudes and that’s one reason why his fan base in Prince George continues to grow. Th e other, of course, is his talent.

He’s performed at the Legion before (he also does shows at Treasure Cove Casino lounge and PG Playhouse) so he knows the dance crowd and what kind of music they like.

He may be a tribute artist, but his own multi-range vocals are truly outstanding and, as proof of that, he brought along for fans his latest CD which has 20 tracks on it.

During the show, Elliott joked about knowing he would not be able to “leave the building alive” if he did not comply with all the song requests. He said he wanted to make sure people got their $25 worth. Near the end of the nearly three-hour show,

he said he fi gured he was at $27.50 with only a couple of requests to go. I got worried. He still hadn’t sung one of my ‘Elvis bests’ – In the Ghetto. As if reading my mind (or my request slip), Elliott leaned into the microphone:

“Now I want to do a few gospel songs from Elvis who just loved gospel music – and I’m going to lead into that with In Th e Ghetto.”

He aced it. Perfect pitch and he

held all the high notes. Aft er the show, I tell

Elliott I’m writing a review for the Free Press. He gives me his crooked “Elvis” smile and quips, “Well, please Don’t Be Cruel, OK?”

Well, it was a night. It really was, Such a Night.


Courtesy of Dody PRINCESteve Elliott wearing his ‘Elvis in Las Vegas’ jumpsuit, performs a beautiful country ballad during his Love Me Tender show Saturday night at the Royal Canadian Legion.

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the owner has the original.”Two boys trudging home in deep snow inspired

the painting, said Dittaro. “A couple of neighbourhood boys, James and

Jamie, were coming home from the rink and they passed by my house. So I took a photo of them through the window and that’s what I worked from.”

Dittaro has lived in Prince George since the 1970s and has raised four children here, three boys and a girl. She recently exhibited her work at Two

Rivers Gallery in an ex-hibit called Our Trees.

In a Shaw TV pro-gram about the exhibit, Dittaro said when she starts to paint she puts on her music and “just gets lost in it.”

She said she’s always impressed at the resil-ience of nature when it comes to trees given forest fi res, pine beetle and tent caterpillar infestations.

Her own resilience is just as remarkable.

In the TV segment (available on YouTube),

curator George Harris says Dittaro has been “a mainstay” of the local art scene for decades. And Dittaro admits she’s been an artist for as long as she can remember.

“In the 70s I was a founder of the 2880 Artists’ Workshop which is still going strong today,” she said. “As the Milltown Artists, our group painted and exhibited all through the Central Interior. For the 2000 Centennial, we travelled the Bella Coola trail and did landscapes and our work was exhib-ited at the Royal Museum in Victoria.

“So that was a real highlight for us.”Th e artist loves going outdoors on location or

“plein air” to do her work.“My son has a cottage on the Shuswap where I

love to go to paint. I started in watercolours and oils and now I’m doing mostly acrylics – except when I go on location because it’s easier to carry watercolours around.”

Fellow artist Ann Bogle is her neighbour, she says. Bogle recently returned to Prince George aft er living on Vancouver Island and her acrylic on canvas works were featured at Groop Gallery.

Are any of her off spring artists?Dittaro says her grandson Michael may have

inherited some of her creativity.“He went to art school in Edmonton – he’s got

the gift ,” she says with a smile.Doris Dittaro’s are work can be seen at Studio

2880’s gift shop.

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Dittaro’s art becomes VIP giftDoris Dittaro has created a legacy

for her children and a memento for guests of the 2015 Canada Winter Games.

Her watercolour “Home From the Rink” was one of a select few chosen for VIP gift ing cards.

“Th ey printed fi ve hundred cards with my photo and bio on the back.

I was quite surprised when I got a phone call telling me my work had been selected for the gift ing cards.”

Th e image was actually created several years ago, she said, when Papyrus Printing put out a call for artists’ work to illustrate a calendar.

“Six of my closest artistic friends and I had formed Th e Milltown Art-ists back in the 70s. We got together and created something for the calen-dar. In exchange, Papyrus made us each 100 prints of our artwork and


Teresa MALLAM/Free PressPrince George artist Doris Dittaro with a print and VIP gifting card of her watercolour image Home from the Rink. Dittaro was among a select few artists whose works were chosen for the cards.

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Friday, February 20, 2015 27www.pgfreepress.com Prince George - COMMUNITY - Free Press

Artists are like athletes when it comes to competition, says Laura Chandler.

Her scenic image, Nechako West Cut-banks, was chosen for the Canada Winter Games gift cards. She was also in the top eight when it came time to select a design for the Games medals.

Eight artists were chosen for the honour of having their image represented on the gift cards.

“Th e only artist of the eight I hadn’t met was Victor Morris,” said Chandler.

“When I ran into him at the art gallery the other day, I felt the circle had been completed. Th ere are actually 12 local artists whose work will be featured during the Games – and there are of course lots more tal-ented artists in Prince George. But I think the cards show off P.G. as a well-rounded city in all areas of the arts.”

Chandler and the other artists partici-pated in Studio 2880’s Artnership 2015.

When she knew she had a winning im-age, she approached management at Inn of the North to ask for display space for her artwork.

“I felt it was good PR for the hotel – and for me because there are lots of people going through there during the Games. So I’ve met and talked with people from Nova Scotia, On-tario, Alberta and a lot of B.C. team members. It’s all so exciting.”

One of her visitors

was Lheidli T’enneh artist Jennifer Pighin, who designed the winning image for the Canada Winter Games medals.

“Jennifer Pighin was at the Inn and I was so excited because she had the medals with her and I got to hold them in my hand. It was so thrilling. I was her art teacher and mentor during the Spirit Bear campaign and I was doing a lot of First Nations themed art so it was nice sharing the time with her.”

Entering her work and waiting for the results can be a nail-biter but the personal rewards have been worth it, she says.

“I feel very honoured and it’s wonderful just being part of a team. As artists, we work hard behind the scenes – just like the athletes do. We had to put in long hours for this, creating the work, then photographing and packaging it all up for display.”

In a Sept. 22 letter from Karen Jeff ery, manager of ceremonies and culture, Chandler was told of her success.

Jeff ery noted the 39 entries were of a “very high level” and she also noted Chandler placed in the top eight for the selection of images to be used in the medals.

“It’s the fi rst time I actually heard the word ‘royalty’ [on cards sold.] It’s an honorar-ium really but I’m still proud of that.”

And when the Games are over?

“I’m going to just experiment and play around with all my ma-terials –and let the real artist in me come out. Th is has been a really

good experience.’ Th e eight works

selected for Canada Winter Games gift cards are: Cliff Mann’s Canada Games House, John Westergard’s Treemendous, Victor Morris’ Purifi cation Ceremony, Claire Ku-jundzic’s Skating on the Lake, Bill Horne’s Win-ter Prayer, Annerose Georgeson’s Sunlight, Doris Dittaro’s Home From the Rink (see Free Press story page 26), and Laura Chan-dler’s Nechako West Cutbanks.

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Artists, like athletes,

For the fi rst time outside Vancou-ver, the Société historique franco-phone de la Colombie-Britannique will hold a mini-colloquium on the history of Francophones in the province.

On Sunday Feb. 22, 1-3:30 p.m., at the Yalenka Hall, 933 Patricia Blvd., the president of the society, historian Maurice Guibord, and professor Michel Bouchard, of the Anthropol-ogy Depeartment at the University of Northern B.C., will present two

conferences, one of them in both of-fi cial languages.

Guibord will speak in French on the architectural heritage of Franco-phone pioneers in Vancouver. Prof. Bouchard will present, fi rst in French, then in English, on “French British Columbia: How Molière’s language ruled the rivers - An examination of the fur trade history of our province and the greater Pacifi c Nortwest.”

Everyone is welcome, and admis-sion is free.

compete for spots at Canada Winter GamesTeresa [email protected]

Teresa MALLAM/Free PressArtist Laura Chandler with her winning Canada Winter Games entry Nechako West Cutbanks at the Inn of the North on Wednesday.

Francophone colloquium set for Sunday in Prince George


Teresa MALLAM/Free PressTeam Ontario skip Matthew Hall throws a rock during the Canada Winter Games men’s curling event on Tuesday at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club.

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Team Ontario enjoying trip to P.G.

For skip Matthew Hall, the fi rst few ends at the curling rink are very important.

Th e Free Press caught up with

the Team Ontario curler at noon Tuesday – moments aft er his team defeated the North West Territories team 18-1.

He had praise for his host city and for the quality of the ice at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club venue.

“Th ey’ve been just great to us here in Prince George,” said Hall.

“Th e ice makers are doing a great job. Th e ice is consistent, lots of curl, and it doesn’t break down over 10 ends. So there’s not as much guessing.

“Right now we’re making sure


we have our weight down. We’re playing Manitoba tonight and we know we’re in for a tough game with them [because] up until now they’ve been undefeatable.”

Hall said his immediate focus as skip is to get the team geared up for that next challenge. Th ey all feel a certain amount of pressure to make the shots and come out on top.

“People expect quite a bit from the Ontario teams, so there’s always that pressure,” he said. “But I have my guys behind me and they trust in my calls. When we’re not on the ice, we’re relaxing together, playing Ping-Pong

and just having a good time.” Paul has been curling for 11 years.

Th e team members – third Phil Mal-var, second Mackenzie Reid and lead Cody McGhee (all from the Toronto area) – came together three years ago and they are now a strong cohesive unit, he says.

Hall was Ontario 2013 Bantam champion skipping a team from the Stroud Curling Club and 2014 was another good year for him as he was chosen to go to Prince George to represent Ontario.

Th e future? He has his sights set on playing in the Olympics one day.

Members of Team B.C. spent time Saturday morning – the fi rst day of sports events in the 2015 Canada Win-ter Games with a group from Prince George’s Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

Th ey talked with the youngsters, signed autographs and posed for pictures.

“Team B.C. donated sports gear and they made a fi nancial contribution to our Team Up program that will enable us to carry on with this program for years to come. We want to thank them for this amazing legacy and also for giving us an opportunity to cheer on Team B.C.,” said BBBS executive direc-tor Tim Bennett.

Th e program is aimed at pre-adoles-

cents aged 11 to 13.“Really, the program is focused

on healthy lifestyle choices: physical activity, healthy eating, self-esteem, and leadership and communication skills. It provides opportunities for 11 to 13 year olds to fi nd their passion for a sport they discover through partici-pating in the program. For example, we have a girl who found she had a skill and a love for kick boxing so we made the connections for her so she could take up kick boxing in the com-munity.”

Th e program builds confi dence in young people and allows them to take part in a wide variety of sports, said Bennett.

For more information on the Team Up sports-based mentoring program, contact [email protected].

Team B.C. athletes spend time with local Big Brothers groupTeresa [email protected]

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Feb. 20th 7:00pm Boom Booms These artists are fabulous! 9:00pm Deuces Wild (Dance) Wonderful local talent Feb. 21st 7:00pm Good for Grapes Fabulous Group 9:00pm Deuces Wild (Dance) Check this group out! Feb. 22nd 9:00pm DJ LTNFox (Dance) A DJ who ROCKS! Feb. 23rd 9:00pm DJ LTNFox (Dance) Dance the night away! Feb. 24th 12 Noon Bon Debarass Awesome!! 6:00pm Karaoke This girl can sing!! 9:00pm DJ LTNFox (Dance) Rock out with this guy!! Feb. 25th 6:00pm Karaoke Sing, sing, sing!! Check out the talent! 8:00pm Deuces Wild (Dance) Check this out! Feb. 26th 8:00pm Deuces Wild (Dance) Dance till you can’t dance any more! Feb. 27th 7:30pm Jakes Gift Play WW2 Veteran’s return to Juno Beach—This is a fabulous play…don’t miss it! 9:00pm Mud River Band (Dance) Local talent you do not want to miss! Feb. 28th 2:00pm Jakes Gift Play WW2 Veteran’s return to Juno Beach—Audience discussion to follow performance. 7:30pm Jakes Gift Play Final Performance of WW2 Veteran’s return to Juno Beach

We welcome children! Children’s menu and

activity books are available.

Daily Kitchen lunch specials, hearty homemade soups and sandwiches…good

variety of menu items

h

We welcome children! Children’s menu and

activity books are available.

Daily Kitchen lunch specials, hearty homemade soups and sandwiches…good

variety of menu items

Family Friendly every day! SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT

DATE TIME EVENT DESCRIPTION

Friday, February 20, 2015 29www.pgfreepress.com

FridayMeat draw, Fridays,

4:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.

Crown Market, Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 3955 Hart Highway.

Read-to-me Storytime, Fridays, 10-10:45 a.m., South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle. Information: 250-614-0684.

Dance, Fridays, 8 p.m.-

midnight, Royal Canadian Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.Saturday

Dance, Feb. 28, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre.

Nechako Public Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 5100 North Nechako Rd.

A Butler’s Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 1156 Fourth Ave.

Meat draw, Saturdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.

Crown Market, Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 3955 Hart Highway.

Dance, Saturdays, 8 p.m.-midnight, Royal Canadian Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.Sunday

Moderate snowshoe hike, The Pinnacles (Quesnel), Feb. 22, meet 8:50 a.m. Information: Carolyn 250-562-1826.

P.G. Farmers’ Market, Feb. 22, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., 1074 Sixth Ave.

Pineview senior hosuing meeting, March 1, 2 p.m., basement of Pineview Hall. Information: 250-963=7056.

Nechako Public Market, Sundays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 5100 North Nechako Rd.

A Butler’s Market, Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 1156 Fourth Ave.

Meat draw, Sundays, 3-5 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.

Crown Market, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 3955 Hart Highway.Monday

Canasta, Feb. 23, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre.

Royal Purple Ladies, meet second and fourth Monday of every month, 7:30 p.m., Studio 2880.

Tai Chi, Mondays, 1:30 p.m., Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr.

Cariboo Toastmasters meet Mondays, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Ramada Hotel, 444 George St. Information: caribootoastmasters.com or Laura (250) 961-3477.

Northern Twister Square Dance Club meets Mondays, 7 p.m., Knox United Church basement. Information: Gys 250-563-4828 or Reta 250-962-2740.Tuesday

Bridge, Tuesdays, 1 p.m., Spruce Capital Seniors Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr.

City Centre Toastmasters meet Tuesday, noon, City Hall Annex. Information: 9164.toastmastersclubs.org.

ACBL duplicate bridge, Tuesdays, 7 p.m., 425 Brunswick St. Information: 250-561-1685.

Spruce Capital Toastmasters meet Tuesdays, 7:25 p.m., 102-1566 7th Ave. Information: Tom 250-562-3402.

Sweet Adelines women’s four-part chorus meets Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m., Studio 2880. New members welcome. Information: Kathy 250-563-5170.Wednesday

Bingo, Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., Spruce Capital Senior Recreation Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr.

TOPS meeting, Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m., Kordyban Lodge dining room. Information: Jessie 250-613-5933.

Whist, Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Activity Centre, 425 Brunswick St.

Army Cadet Rangers free youth program, meets Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Connaught Youth Centre. Information: Sondra 250-963-9462 or Andrew 250-981-8270.

CNC Retirees meet

last Wednesday of the month, 9 a.m., D’Lanos. Information: Lois 250-563-6928.Thursday

Whist, Feb. 26, 7 p.m., Hart Pioneer Centre.

Tai Chi, Thursday, 7-9 p.m., Knox United Church, 1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-964-3849.

Central Interior Darts Club, meets Thursday, 6:30 p.m., P.G. Legion, 1116 Sixth Ave.

Crown Market, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 3955 Hart Highway.

Bridge, Thursdays, 1-3 p.m., Spruce Capital Seniors’ Centre, 3701 Rainbow Dr. Information: 250-563-6450.

ACBL duplicate bridge, Tuesdays, 7 p.m., 425 Brunswick St. Infor-mation: 250-561-1685.

Little Artists, Thursdays, 10:30-11:30

a.m., South Fort George Family Resource Centre, 1200 La Salle. 250-614-0684.

Old Time Fiddlers jam, Thursday, 7-10 p.m. Elder Citizens Rec Centre, 1692 10th Ave.

ECRA Forever Young Chorus meet Thursdays, 12:45 p.m., ECRA, 1692 10th Ave.

Support Groups

Metis Elders Craft group, Th ursday, 10 a.m.-noon, Prince George Metis Elders Society of-fi ce, 117 – 1600 Th ird Ave. (Prince George Native Friendship Centre).

Wednesday evening Tops (take off pounds sensibly), Spruceland Baptist Church, 1901 Ogilvie St. Information: Leona 250-962-8802.

P.G. COPD Support Group meets Wednes-days, 1-3 p.m., AIMHI gymnasium, 950 Kerry St. Information: www.pgcopdsupportgroup.ca.

Prince George Stroke Survivors Group meets Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Elder Citizens Recreation Association, 1692 10th Ave. Information: Julia 250-563-3819, Roland 250-562-1747.

La Leche League breast feeding support

group meets the second Thursday of every month 7 p.m., 176 Aitken Cres. Information: Tammy 250-612-0085.

Al-Anon New Hope AFG meets Fridays, 1:15-2:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, 483 Gillett St. Information: 250-561-3244.

Al-Anon Hart Serenity AFG meets Mondays, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Knox United Church, 1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-561-3244.

Al-Anon PG Beginners AFG meets Tuesdays, 7-7:45 p.m., Knox United Church, 1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-561-3244.

Al-Anon Hart Courage AFG meets Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m., Knox United Church, 1448 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-561-3244.

Al-Anon Mustard Seed AFG meets Thursdays, 7:30-8:30 p.m., St. Michael’s Anglican Church, 1505 Fifth Ave. Information: 250-561-

3244.Prince George ATV

Club meets third Tuesday of month, 7 p.m. Carmel Restaurant meeting room. Information: George 250-964-7907.

Royal Purple meets second and fourth Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Information: Dianne 250-596-0125 or Jeanette 250-563-9362.

Prince George Quilters Guild meets fourth Tuesday of the month, Connaught Youth Centre, 1491 17th Ave. Registra-tion 6:30 p.m., meeting 7 p.m. Information: Barb Friesen 250-564-6288 or e-mail [email protected].

Prince George Genealogical Society meets the third Tuesday of the month, St. Giles Presbyterian Church, 1500 Edmonton St.

PGRH retirees breakfast, first Tuesday of the month, Prince George Golf and Curling Club. Information: 250-563-2885.

Community BuilderAUTO BO DY LTD .

Proud to recognize those who give in our community.

AUTO BO DY LTD .2065 - 1st Ave. • 250-563-08832065 - 1st Ave. • 250-563-0883

www.csninc.cawww.csninc.ca

Thank YouPrince GeorgeFor Voting Us

Best Auto Body Shop!

BestBestAuto BodyAuto Body

ShopShop

Avoly and Mylah son-Nagel get excited every year to build something new and exciting. This year they wanted an elephant and this is what they came up with as their entry in the Snow Daze snowman building contest, which is part of Mardi Gras.

w w w . p g f r e e p r e s s . c o m

Datebook

The Community Datebook provides free community event listings every Friday. Submissions are accepted in written

form only – dropped off, mailed or emailed –No Phone Calls please. Datebook runs as space allows,

there is no guarantee of publication.Mail to 1773 South Lyon St., Prince George BC V2N 1T3.

E-mail [email protected]

“GIVE A LITTLE…GAIN A LOT!”

For information on volunteering with more than 100 non-profit organizations in Prince George, contact Volunteer Prince George

250-564-0224www.volunteerpg.com

BC Cancer Agency North

Volunteer Program offers patient and centre support.

Visit www.bccancer.bc.ca Email: mark.barnes@bccancer.

bc.ca Mark 250-645-7300 ext. 687508

Hart Community Assn Volunteers are needed to help

with Family Programs. If you have some ideas on making the Hart a healthier place & are a qualified instructor interested in earning

extra $$, email: [email protected]

Kristi 250-970-0240

Immigrant & Multicultural

Services

Integration of newcomers into the community, English

classes, employment and career counseling, programs for youth, women and seniors. Volunteers

welcome. Call 250-562-2900

3133 Westwood Dr. Prince George B.C. • 250-563-1010

DON’T GET BURNED(Tan before you travel)

Developing a good base tan before your vacation will prepare you for

further sun exposure.

Looking for something Looking for something COOL COOL to do in to do in Prince George?Prince George?

is hosting a travelling exhibit from the Canadian Museum of Nature

ICE AGE MAMMALSFULL-SIZE MASTODON • DOZENS OF FOSSILS & SPECIMENS

www.theexplorationplace.comFEB 13 TO JUNE 14, 2015

Associates Land Surveying Ltd.• Building Layouts• Certi cates of Location• Consolidations• Site Plans• Rights of Way• Topographic Surveys• Leases• Land Act Surveys• Boundary Marking• Subdivisions Subdivisions

Suite 12 - 556 North Nechako Road, Prince George, BCPh: 250-561-2229 • Fax: 250-563-1941

pgfreepress.com

Be fi rst to add to the story or read what your neighbour thinks. Be a part of your community paper.

Comment online.

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§

Optima SX Turbo shown‡

HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.7L/8.9L

$21 weekly payment includes $1,500 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F) 84-month financing. After 69 weekly payments at $21, weekly payments increase to $43 . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

2015 LX MTRio4 SX with Navigation shown‡

HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.3L/7.3L

for up to 84 months

%for up to 84 months

%

for up to 84 months

%

$ $

$from$39weekly

payments

from$

from$ weekly

for 69 payments

weekly

paymentspayment payment

payment

2015 LX MTForte SX shown‡

HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.3L/8.0L

$24 weekly payment includes $1,500 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F) 84-month financing. After 62 weekly payments at $24, weekly payments increase to $48 . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

2015 LX AT

$39 weekly payment includes $2,000 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Sorento LX AT (SR75BF) 84-month financing. After 50 weekly payments at $39, weekly payments increase to $79 . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

Sorento SX AT AWD 7-Seat shown‡

HWY / CITY 100KM : 9.0L/12.7L

OFFER ENDS MARCH 2ND

$36 weekly payment includes $1,000 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F) 84-month financing. After 28 weekly payments at $36, weekly payments increase to $73 . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

2015 LX AT

for up to 84 months

% $from$36weekly

payments payment

$ , HEATED SEATS REMOTE STARTERHEATED MIRRORS WINTER TIRESHEATED STEERING WHEEL

Off er(s) available on select new 2015 models through participating dealers to qualifi ed retail customers who take delivery from February 3rd to March 2nd, 2015. Dealers may sell or lease for less. Some conditions apply. See dealer for complete details. Vehicles shown may include optional accessories and upgrades available at extra cost. All off ers are subject to change without notice. All pricing includes delivery and destination fees up to $1,665, AMVIC fee, tire tax of $22, $100 A/C charge (where applicable). Excludes taxes, licensing, registration, insurance, variable dealer administration fees (up to $699), fuel-fi ll charges up to $100, and down payment (if applicable and unless otherwise specifi ed). Other lease and fi nancing options also available. §Up to “Half Price Payments” for up to one year (“Off er”) is only applicable on fi nancing off ers on 2015 Rio/Forte/Optima/Sorento/Rondo models. On approved credit, from a participating dealer in Canada between February 3rd and March 2nd, 2015. The Off er consists of a loan credit (up to “Half Price Payments Credit”) that will range from $500 to $3,250 depending on model/trim. Customers can choose to take the full amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit as a one (1) time incentive that will be deducted from the negotiated price of the vehicle before taxes. Alternatively, customers can choose the up to “Half Price Payments” option and have their fi nancing payments reduced (before taxes) by 50% until such time as the entire amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit has been exhausted. This may take between 10 weeks and 69 weeks depending on model/trim and the amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit. After the entire amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit has been exhausted, the customer will be required to pay the full amount of all regularly scheduled fi nance payments over the remaining term of the contract. Vehicle trade-in amounts and down payments are not calculated in the advertised up to “Half Price Payments”. See dealer for complete details. Representative fi nancing example: 0% fi nancing off er for up to 84 months available to qualifi ed retail customers on approved credit for the new 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F)/2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F)/2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F)/2015 Sorento LX AT (SR75BF) with a purchase price of $15,602/$17,502/$26,402/$28,782 fi nanced at 0% for 84-month period with $0 down payment equals 69/62/28/50 reduced weekly payments of $21/$24/$36/$39 followed by weekly payments of $43/$48/$73/$79. Includes $1,500/$1,500/$1,000/$2,000 up to “Half Price Payments” credit. Cost of borrowing is $0 and total obligation is $14,102/$16,002/$25,365/$26,782. Up to “Half Price Payment” Incentive varies by model and trim level and may be taken as a lump sum or to reduce the fi nanced amount. Off er ends March 2nd, 2015. ‡Model shown Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price for 2015 Forte SX (FO748F)/2015 Rio4 SX with Navigation (RO749F)/2015 Sorento SX V6 AWD (SR75XF)/2015 Optima SX Turbo AT (OP748F) is $26,695/$22,395/$42,095/$34,895. Highway/city fuel consumption is based on the 2015 Rio LX+ ECO AT/2015 Forte 1.8L MPI 4-cyl MT/2015 Sorento LX 2.4L GDI 4-cyl AT/2015 Optima 2.4L GDI AT. These updated estimates are based on the Government of Canada’s approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors. $1,000 Winter Edition Bonus amounts are off ered on select 2015 Winter Edition models and are deducted from the negotiated purchase price before taxes. Available on fi nancing off ers only. Certain conditions apply. $1,000 Winter Edition Bonus amount available on the 2015 Rondo LX AT (5-seat) Winter SE (RN75SF), 2015 Rondo LX AT (7-seat) Winter SE (RN75TF) and 2015 Optima LX AT Winter SE (OP74SF). Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. For more information on our 5-year warranty coverage, visit kia.ca or call us at 1-877-542-2886. Kia is a trademark of Kia Motors Corporation.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED*5-year/100,000 km worry-free comprehensive warranty.

Gustafson’s Kia North 1912 – 20th Avenue, Prince George, BC

(250) 563-7949


FINANCIALASSISTANCE

MAY BEAVAILABLE

Canadian Vocational Training Centre#201 - Victoria Street, Prince George

Educate EmpowerEmploy

Courses In:Courses In:• Tourism & Customer Care• Tourism & Customer Care• Microsoft Offi ce Specialist• Microsoft Offi ce Specialist• Light Warehouse Training• Light Warehouse Training• Sales & Service• Sales & Service

vocationaltrainingcentre.com

250.596.1575CALL TODAY

Editor - Merritt Herald Merritt, BCOur community newspaper located in the beautiful Thompson-Okanagan is seeking an editor. The successful applicant will work with the newsroom’s general assignment and sports reporters on story assignment and editing. The successful applicant will be responsible for producing six to eight stories per week, taking photographs to accompany those stories, writing columns and editorials, and editing the stories coming in from the reporter and columnists. The editor will also lay out the newspaper twice a week using Adobe InDesign and uploading the paper and photo galleries to the newspaper’s website and social media pages. The successful candidate will be community-oriented and have a serious interest in current events — locally, regionally, provincially, nationally and globally. This position is ideal for a candidate with at least two years of reporting experience wishing to gain editor experience in the ever-evolving world of journalism. Qualifications: The preferred candidate will be a self-starter with an accredited journalism degree who works efficiently on his or her own. The preferred candidate will also be highly organized and flexible in the hours she or he works in order to cover community events as they arise. The successful candidate will be committed to a high standard of writing and will be proficient in CP Style. Proficiency in InDesign and Photoshop are required, as are strong layout skills. Applicants must have their own transportation.

Please send your resume to:Theresa Arnold - Publisher publisher @merrittherald.com Merritt Herald - 2090 Granite Ave. P.O. Box 9 Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Tel: (250) 378 4241 Fax: (250) 378 6818

REGISTERED NURSE – HOME MANAGER

Prince George, BCTCS is a social services agency that provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities in a number of communities in the Province of BC. We possess an unwavering commitment to care, innovation and highly individualized, solution-focused services for individuals and their families. Fundamental to our purpose is the selection and support of committed staff members.

TCS is establishing a home in Prince George for individuals with complex health care needs and developmental disabilities. As the RN / Home Manager you will be responsible for the provision of all aspects of care in the home as well as supervision, training and leadership of staff members, administrative management, communication and liaison with professionals in the community. You will also have extensive experience in a variety of health care settings and supervisory experience. As a team player you must be able to build relationships, be an excellent interpersonal communicator and be able to maintain a flexible schedule as necessary.

We offer competitive salary with an excellent benefit package. Please submit resumes by March 7, 2015 to

Kristine DeMonte at [email protected].

Service, Commitment, LeadershipThompson Community Services

www.thompsoncommunityservices.com

PRINCE GEORGE NATIVE FRIENDSHIP CENTRE

Our People make a difference in the community

The Prince George Native Friendship Centre, a visionary non-profi t society, has been serving the needs of the entire community for the past 43+ years.

We are seeking candidates for the following position(s)within our organization:

FAMILY WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Strengthening Families Facilitator Closing date: March 2, 2015.

SUPPORTIVE HOUSING

Front Line Support Worker/Casual On Call Closing date: February 25, 2015.

Cook/Casual Closing date: February 25, 2015

A hard copy listing the roles, responsibilities and qualifi cations of the position are available from the Prince George Native Friendship Centre’s web site at www.pgnfc.com (click on Join Our Team / Careers).

To apply, submit a resume, cover letter and three (3) references detailing which position you are applying for, to: Prince George Native Friendship Centre 1600 Third Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3G6 Fax: (250) 563-0924 E-mail: [email protected]

Applications will be accepted until dates noted on postings, no telephone inquiries please. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Announcements

InformationNECHAKO RESERVOIR

UPDATE18 February 2015

Reservoir Elevation: 851.33m (2793.08 ft.)SLS Discharge: 40.05 m3/sSnow pack: 115% long term aver-age

Nechako River at Cheslatta Falls:38 m3/s

Nechako River at Vanderhoof: 49 m3/sReservoir level is currently slightly below the long term aver-age for this time of year at 90%. Nonetheless to manage the res-ervoir level and Nechako River water level for the coming snow melt Skins Lake spillway will be increased this week from 30m3/s to 45 M3/S

Increasing discharge from the Skins Lake spillway will result in water fl owing over the existing ice cover in the Cheslatta wa-tershed and the Nechako River, and could create unsafe condi-tions. It is advised that no ac-tivity be conducted on or adja-cent to these areas starting immediately.

Visit website www.wateroffi ce.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time fl ow information for the Nechako River.

Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-567-5105 for more information. A re-cording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250- 567-5812

Announcements

NECHAKO RESERVOIR UPDATE

11 February 2015

Reservoir Elevation: 851.29m (2792.95 ft.)SLS Discharge: 30.5 m3/sSnow pack: 115% long term aver-age

Nechako River at Cheslatta Falls:38 m3/s Nechako River at Vanderhoof: 49 m3/sReservoir level is currently slightly below the long term aver-age at this time of year at 90%. Nonetheless to manage the res-ervoir level and Nechako River water level for the coming snow melt Skins Lake spillway will be increased this week from 30m3/s to 45 M3/S

Increasing discharge from the Skins Lake spillway will result in water fl owing over the existing ice cover in the Cheslatta wa-tershed and the Nechako River, and could create unsafe condi-tions. It is advised that no ac-tivity be conducted on or adja-cent to these areas starting immediately.

Visit website www.wateroffi ce.ec.gc.ca for up to date real-time fl ow information for the Nechako River.

Contact Rio Tinto Alcan at 250-567-5105 for more information. A re-cording of this notice is available 24-hours in Vanderhoof at 250- 567-5812

BC Cancer Foundation1215 Lethbridge Street

Prince George, BC V2N 7E9

Please include your name and mailing address for the tax

receipt, the name of the person you’re remembering

and the name and address of person to notify.

250.645.7300 ext. 687469bccancerfoundation.com

In Memoriam Gifts

Announcements

Career Opportunities


Information


Announcements

InformationALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUSDo you think you may have a problem with Alcohol? Alcohol Anonymous, Box 1257, Prince George, BC V2L 4V5Call 250-564-7550

APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Pen-ny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certifi cate Pro-gram at Langara College in Vancouver. Application dead-line April 30, 2015. Send appli-cations to [email protected] information online at: www.bccommunitynews.com/ our-programs/scholarship.


Announcements

Personals46 yr old single white male looking for outgoing single white female for fun and good times. Friends fi rst. Call 250 961-8477

www.pgfreepress.com

Employment

Business Opportunities

GET FREE vending machines.Can earn $100,000 + per year. All cash-retire in just 3 years.Protected Territories. Full de-tails call now 1-866-668-6629.Website: www.tcvend.com.


250.564.0005

INDEX IN BRIEF

“Advertise across Northern BC in the 32 best-read

community newspapers!”

AGREEMENTIt is agreed by any Display or Clas-si ed Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertise-ment. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typo-graphical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement.

bcclassi ed.com cannot be responsible for errors after the rst day of publication of any adver-tisement. Notice of errors on the rst day should immediately be called to the attention of the Clas-si ed Department to be corrected for the following edition.

bcclassi ed.com reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the bcclassi ed.com Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

DISCRIMINATORY LEGIS-LATIONAdvertisers are reminded that Pro-vincial legislation forbids the publi-cation of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, col-or, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justi ed by a bona de require-ment for the work involved.

COPYRIGHTCopyright and/or properties sub-sist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of bcclassi ed.com. Per-mission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to re-course in law.

Free PrFree PressessPrince George

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHILDREN

EMPLOYMENT

SERVICE GUIDE - PERSONAL

BUSINESS SERVICES

PETS / LIVESTOCK

ITEMS FOR SALE / WANTED

REAL ESTATE

RENTALS

TRANSPORTATION

MARINE

LEGALS Career Opportunities

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Prince George Free PressDescriptionWe are seeking a team player with a professional attitude to work and learn in a fast paced, business environment.Quali cationsThe ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative to sell multiple media products, including on-line advertising and special products, work with existing customers and develop new customers. Strong interpersonal skills and a strong knowledge of sales and marketing are required. Above average communication skills, valid driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle are necessary.If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today. Please submit your resume and cover letter to:

Ron Drillen, General Manager Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, B.C., V2N 1T3, Canada Tel: (250) 564-0005 Ext.115 Fax: (250) 562-0025 Email: [email protected]

Outside Advertising Sales Representative

AberdeenPublishing.com778-754-5722

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 755

X CROSSWORD

32 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.comPrince George - CLASSIFIEDS - Free Press

Prince George Free PressDescriptionWe are seeking a team player with a professional attitude to work and learn in a fast paced, business environment.Quali cationsThe ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative to sell multiple media products, including on-line advertising and special products, work with existing customers and develop new customers. Strong interpersonal skills and a strong knowledge of sales and marketing are required. Above average communication skills, valid driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle are necessary.If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today. Please submit your resume and cover letter to:

Ron Drillen, General Manager Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, B.C., V2N 1T3, Canada Tel: (250) 564-0005 Ext.115 Fax: (250) 562-0025 Email: [email protected]

Outside Advertising Sales Representative


EMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITY Competition #14-22MAINTENANCE IIIDEASE LAKEMAINTENANCE SHOPThe Stikine is a progressive northern School District in British Columbia offering a good salar scale ith an e cellent bene t package The District has a 40 hour per week full time continuing Maintenance III position available immediatel

Under the direction of the Maintenance Lead Hand, the position provides skilled trade services related to the maintenance, alterations, construction and upkeep of District buildings, grounds and e uipment

i tionGrade 12 education, B C or Interprovincial ourne man Carpenter, Plumber, Millwright or HVAC Ticket;Valid clean Class B C driver s license driver s abstract will be re uired

orking knowledge of other trades Competent in the use and care of tools and e uipment common to this positionPhysically capable to perform the job duties including climbing ladders and working at heights Be familiar with HIMSBe self motivated and able to work independently and as part of a teamBe e ible with respect to hours of workRespond to emergencies associated with housing and the school Terms and conditions of employment are governed by the C U P local 2 4 collective agreementApplicants must be prepared to undergo a criminal record search

or further information, please contact Mr Stan Carter, Lead Hand at 2 0 1 4 0 Resume containing details of education, experience and references are to be submitted to:Ken Mackie, Secretary TreasurerSchool District o StikineP Box 1 0, Dease Lake, BC V0C 1L0Phone: 2 0 1 4440

ax: 2 0 1 4441mail: kmackie sd bc ca

Posted: January 6, 2015

northern School

Red Seal Auto Technician

Anchor / Kal Tire KitimatWe are presently seeking a Certified

Red Seal Automotive Technician.

Experience in alignments, shocks/struts, suspension and brakes is required. Full Time Position with benefits. Competitive wage and great working conditions.

Apply in person with resume to 236 Enterprise

Avenue or by fax: (1)250-632-4436 or by

e-mail: [email protected] and get started

on an exciting career with Canada’s largest

independent Tire Dealer.

Well established business seeking highly motivated individual, who is passionate about design for our kitchen and bathroom design and sales department. The ideal Candidate would be creative, enthusiastic and have both, excellent problem solving and time management skills. Must have the ability to pay close attention to detail and build strong relation-ships with customers. If you are dynamic with the willingness to learn, please bring your resume to: 2165 Ogilvie St. Prince George, B.C. Attention: Gordon Skye

The Prince George Free Press is seeking a full time Inside Sales Representative to handle sales of Print and On-Line advertising and to manage an existing account list. This individual will work out of our Prince George office and will be responsible for building strong relationships with current clients, develop new business to increase revenue and perform to sales goals set by management. The position requires solid communication skills, creativity and attention to detail. Prior advertising knowledge and media experience are both a big plus, but not required. To qualify, you must be outgoing and driven to succeed. Other responsibilities include problem solving and the ability to multitask.

If working in a positive, goal oriented team environment, with state of the art equipment appeals to you, submit your resume in confi dence to:

Ron Drillen, General ManagerThe Prince George Free Press1773 South Lyon Street V2N 1T3Fax: 250-562-0025Email: [email protected]

Inside Sales Representative


JOB OPPORTUNITYMaintenance Superintendent

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is seeking applications for Maintenance Superintendents at the Pinkut Creek Salmon Spawning Channel project and the Kitimat River Hatchery.

Applications can be made online at www.psc-cfp.gc.ca or contact Markus Feldhoff, Watershed Enhancement Manager, Kitimat River Hatchery, Box 197, Kitimat, BC, V8C 2G7 ph: 250-639-9888 / fax: 250-639-9220.

Closing date for applications is midnight,

Applications by mail cannot be postmarked any

later than .

Business Opportunities

Diane Rosebrugh & Dick Rosebrugh, B.Ed.

FOODSAFETY In Home • Food Handlers Volunteers • Care Givers

ABC Food Safety [email protected]

250-563-2585Fax: 250-563-2572

Classes Run 8:30–5:00pmIMSS Building, 1270 2nd Ave

BC Foodsafe Level 1

Saturday Mar 7, 2015

BC Foodsafe Level 1

Saturday Mar. 18, 2015

BC Foodsafe Level 1

Thursday April 9, 2015

Ke

ep

ing

Fo

od

Sa

feCareer

OpportunitiesDrivers/Courier/

TruckingHelp Wanted Medical/Dental


EXPANDING INTOPRINCE GEORGE!Includes Training. Call Dave

for Home Inspection FranchisePresentation. 1.855.301.2233www.bc.abuyerschoice.com

THE DISABILITY Tax Credit. $1500 yearly tax credit. $15,000 lump sum refund (on avg). Covers: hip/knee re-placements, back conditions and restrictions in walking and dressing. 1-844-453-5372.

Education/Trade Schools

HIRING•Food Service

Supervisor •Chef

Send resume to: shiraz.cafe.job@

gmail.com

Full Time Reception/Accounting Clerk Required

Quali ed Applicants should possess:•High School Diploma or equivalent•1-3 years’ experience in clerical accounting•MS Of ce knowledge requiredPlease see full job posting onour website: www.allpoints reprotection.comPlease apply to: hr@allpoints reprotection.com

GPRC, FAIRVIEW Campus urgently requires a Power En-gineering Instructor! Please contact Brian Carreau at 780-835-6631 and/or visit our web-site: www.gprc.ab.ca/careers


HIGHWAYOWNER OPERATORS$3500 SIGNING BONUS

Van Kam’s Group of Compa-nies requires Highway line-haul Owner Operator based in our Prince George terminal for runs throughout BC and Alberta. Applicants must have winter and mountain, driving expe-rience/training.

We offer above average rates and an excellent

employee benefi ts package.

To join our team of profes-sional drivers, email a resume, current driver’s abstract & details of your truck to:

[email protected] Call: 604-968-5488Fax: 604-587-9889

Only those of interestwill be contacted.

Van-Kam is committed toEmployment Equity and

Environmental Responsibility.

Help WantedCommunity Health Nurse

sought in Port Hardy, BC. Re-quest job description or apply to [email protected] by Feb 22. Competitive salary offered. Tel. 250-949-6625

Filipino Cleaning Service is looking for commercial and

residential cleaners. Must be hard working, honest and punctual to join our team

email [email protected] call: 250 596-2433

PT MERCHANDISER wanted for retail visits. Hourly rate ne-gotiable. Send resumes to: resumes@ devrew.com


SMALL ENG/SAW/OUTBOARD MECHANIC WANTED.

Exp required. Wage/benefi ts negotiable. ShopRite Marine/Log-

ging, Port McNeill, BCSend resume to:

[email protected]

WantedRetired person with Class 5 for vacation relief.Delivering freight in PG. Some heavy lifting. Need criminal background check. Pay $80/day+ (250)960-8372

Home Care/SupportWanted a caregiver starting April 1st, to care for a handi-cap girl. Please email [email protected]


MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION is an in-demand career in Canada! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online train-ing you need from an employ-er-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-888-528-0809 to start training for your work-at-home career to-day!

Trades, TechnicalRETIREMENT home in Osoy-oos seeking FT maintenance person. Resume and cover let-ter to [email protected]

1645 Spruce St. Prince George

250-562-7311

“Her report card really improved

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If you see a wildfi re, report it to

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there’s more online »

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Friday, February 20, 2015 33www.pgfreepress.com Prince George - CLASSIFIEDS - Free Press

NOTICEPARCEL TAX ROLL REVIEW PANEL

The 2015 Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel will meet on:

Wednesday, March 11, 2015at 10:00 a.m., in the Boardroom of the

Regional District of Fraser-Fort George155 George Street, Prince George BC V2L 1P8

for the purpose of hearing complaints with respect to

the inclusion or exclusion of properties affected by the

following parcel tax rolls:

Adams Road Community Sewer Service, Azu Water System,

Bear Lake Water System, Bendixon Road Community Sewer Service,

Buckhorn Community Sewer Service, Shell-Glen Fire Protection,

Shelley Riverbank Erosion Protection,Syms Road Street Lighting,

Tabor Lake Community Sewer Service, Tallus Road Community Sewer Service West Lake Community Sewer Service

To be considered by the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel

complaints must be received, in writing, not later than

10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 2015(Complaints received by fax at 250-562-8676 are

acceptable.)

The parcel tax rolls will be available for inspection at

the Regional District Offi ce:

February 25 to March 9, 2015during regular business hours.

For further information, please contact

Meredith Burmaster, Community Services Leader,

at 250-960-4400 or 1-800-667-1959

155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8Telephone: (250) 960-4400, Toll Free 1-800-667-1959

Fax (250) 563-7520, Web: www.rdffg.bc.ca

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 755

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For more information contactPrime Time Cattle - Jason Kelly

587.377.3450Cutting Edge Cattle Co. - Wayne Pincott

250.395.6367Catalog online at www.primetimecattle.com

Prime Time Cattle & Cutting Edge Cattle Co. Bull Sale

Services

Financial ServicesGET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB.

1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

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Borrowers WantedStart saving hundreds of dollars today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime1-800-639-2274 or

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Services

Home CareMATURE lady available for housekeeping services, meal prep, shopping for seniors and bathing elderly ladies. (250) 961-0546 (Trina)

Home RepairsHandyman Services- Painting, carpentry, fl ooring, repairs etc. Very experienced. Good rates. Dan 250-613-3991

Services

LandscapingWINTER MAINTANCESNOW & GARBAGE

REMOVALCall Pal:

250-961-3612 or 250-964-4758 res

Merchandise for Sale

$400 & UnderWinter Tires For Sale

195/70 R14 Hankook tires & rims. 5 Bolt for Ford

Ranger. Driven less than 100 km. $375.00 250564-

3194

Firewood/FuelFIREWOOD

Driest wood in town split & delivered.$200/cord (250)964-2020.

Misc. for SaleFor Sale

-135 Gallon aquarium with stand $700.00

Call :250 563-5565

Fridge $100 Glider Chair $105 Drawer white wardrobe $50.

Cedar chest $10 Bread machine $25

778-281-1010

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSaw mills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.STEEL BUILDINGS/metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for bal-ance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 or visit us online: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca.

Livestock

Merchandise for Sale

Misc. for SaleSTEEL BUILDINGS. “Really big sale!” All steel building models and sizes. Plus extra savings. Buy now and we will store until spring. Call Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 or visit online: www.pioneersteel.ca

Misc. WantedPrivate Collector Looking toBuy Coin Collections, Silver,Antiques, Native Art, Estates +Chad: 778-281-0030 Local

Rentals

Apt/Condo for Rent

Midtowne

To Rent Call:250-561-1447

• 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available

• Close to hospital & downtown

• Rent includes heat, hot water• Elevator to undercover

parking • Fridge, stove, quality carpets,

drapes • Laundry on each fl oor • No pets

1 bdrm. apt. $590.2 bdrm. apt. $710.

Includes heat & h/w 1601 Queensway St.

250-612-7199

HILLSBOROUGH AptsNewly updated, spacious 3

bdrm suite. Clean, quiet, secure entrance. Close to

schools and College No Pets. Includes H/W

Utilities extra. Available Immed.

Phone 250-596-4555

Livestock

Rentals

Apt/Condo for RentJUBILEE Apt’s

1 bedroom Adult orientated, close to downtown & bus route. N/S, N/P. Parking.

Call: (250) 562-7172

Pine Grove AptsClean 1 & 2 bdrm apts available

Student incentives No Pets

Phone 250-563-2221

SUMMIT APTS2666 Upland Street

1 & 2 bedroom apts. Rentincludes: hydro, heat, hot

water, appliances, drapes and parking. Quiet, no pets

250-564-3162

Commercial/Industrial

Space available for rentFor all your rental needs

Call 562-8343 or 562-RENT

Majestic Management(1981) Ltd.

• OFFICE

• COMMERCIAL

• RETAIL

WAREHOUSE FOR RENT2080 sq ft warehouse

space aval $1200.00 per month. For more info call Ron 250 564-0005 ext 115.

Offi ce/RetailSPACE FOR RENT

10,860 sq.ft. of Offi ce & Warehouse Space

Industrial Area across from CNC

Call Ron at 250 564-0005 Ext.115

Legal Notices

Transportation

Cars - Domestic

For Sale 2012 Santa Fe DarkBlue, Grey interior. 55,000kmV6,AWD,A/C,CC,remote start.Both stud and original tires onrims.Excellent condition. Mustsell for job requirements. Ask-ing $20,000 Call 250 649-6579

Scrap Car Removal

FREE SCRAP CARREMOVAL

within 15 kmP & R

250-963-3435Email: prfl [email protected]

MEMBER OF

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLER’S

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOC.

“DO’IN IT RIGHT”

Wrecker/Used Parts

USED TIRESCars & Trucks

$25 & upMost Sizes Available

15270 Hwy 97 South250.963.3435

Legal Notices

FIND IT CLASSIFIEDSIN THE

WHERE DO YOU TURN

YOUR NEWSPAPER:The link to your community

TO LEARNWHAT’S

ON SALE?DEAR READERS,

“A special thank you to those residents who have already provided a safe route to their mailbox for our carriers!” Circulation Manager

In order for our carriers to be safe while delivering the Free Press, we ask that you please rid your walkways, driveways and stairs of snow and ice to avoid unnecessary slips and falls.

The Prince George Free Press is seeking a full time Inside Sales Representative to handle sales of Print and On-Line advertising and to manage an existing account list. This individual will work out of our Prince George office and will be responsible for building strong relationships with current clients, develop new business to increase revenue and perform to sales goals set by management. The position requires solid communication skills, creativity and attention to detail. Prior advertising knowledge and media experience are both a big plus, but not required. To qualify, you must be outgoing and driven to succeed. Other responsibilities include problem solving and the ability to multitask.

If working in a positive, goal oriented team environment, with state of the art equipment appeals to you, submit your resume in confi dence to:

Ron Drillen, General ManagerThe Prince George Free Press1773 South Lyon Street V2N 1T3Fax: 250-562-0025Email: [email protected]

Inside Sales Representative


34 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.com

250.564.0005 | [email protected] | www.pgfreepress.com

Allan WISHART/Free PressLily Palmer, a Prince George ringette player who was born profoundly deaf, receives a number of mementoes from the players on the Saskatchewan ringette team competing in the Canada Winter Games. The team heard about Lily’s work at playing ringette despite her hearing problems, and invited her to their practice Monday at the Elksentre.

When they heard about Lily, they came

Th e Saskatchewan ringette team competing at the Canada Winter Games took some time aft er their practice Monday to meet a local ringette player.

“I can’t even imagine what it’s like for her,” captain Kirsten Wallin said of Lily Palmer, 9, who was born profoundly deaf in both ears. “Her being able to play ringette is incredible.”

Lily’s mother, Andrea, says while Lily was born profoundly deaf, she can hear quite well now, thanks to cochlear implants.

“Her fi rst surgery was just aft er her fi rst birthday,” Andrea said. “Th e second was was just aft er her sixth birthday, when they had the technical to make two implants work.”

Abbie Treslan, another of the Saskatchewan captains, says they found out about Lily through a story CKPG-TV did on her and posted on YouTube.

“I didn’t know of anyone with a disability like hers who was play-ing ringette,” she said, and aft er meeting Lily, she said the team had one opinion. “I think any of us would take her under our wing.”

Andrea says while Lily can hear well with the implants, there are still problems.

“We never expected her to excel at team sports, but she asked a couple of times about joining ringette, so we decided to try it.”

Lily plays on the U10 team, and coach Rick Spooner wears a

special mike during games.“It’s hooked up to a device in

Lily’s helmet,” Andrea explained, “and it lets him talk directly to her. She hears his voice in her head, really.

“Th e problem otherwise is that all the other noise – the skates on the ice, the ring hitting things, the sound bouncing off the boards – just becomes a mass of sound that she can’t pick anything out of.”

Th e Saskatchewan team pre-sented Lily with a number of gift s aft er their short meeting.

“One of our coaches couldn’t make the trip,” Wallin said, “he said to give her his mitts and jersey, and we all had a number of pins, so we gave her some of those as well.”

Andrea says the rest of Lily’s team has learned to make a couple of adjustments to help communi-cate with Lily.

“Th ey know they sometimes have to tap her on the shoulder to get her attention, and coach Rick has learned to watch his language.”

Allan [email protected]

Rested Prince George Cougars welcome weary Warriors to CN Centre on Saturday

One team was playing its fi ft h game in eight days.

Th e other was playing its second.“You could see the energy diff erence in

Edmonton,” Prince George Cougars coach Mark Holick said of the team’s 5-2 loss to the Oil Kings on Monday aft ernoon. “We had a bad line change, they scored, and you could see us sag a bit.”

Th e Cougars will have the skate on the other foot when they play the Moose Jaw Warriors on Saturday night at CN Centre.

“I think it’s the fi rst time all year we’ll be playing a tired team,” Holick said. Th e Warriors played in Victoria on Tuesday (a 4-3 win) and Vancouver Wednesday (a 3-2 overtime loss) before playing in Kamloops tonight (Friday).

Th e loss in Edmonton on Monday was the only blemish in a three-game road trip on the weekend for the Cougars, as they beat Medicine Hat 4-2 on Friday and Red Deer

3-2 in overtime on Sunday. In all, the team came back with fi ve points from their last fi ve games, all on the road.

“It’s tough to win three games in a row on the road,” Holick said. “We did well to come out of this last trip at .500.”

While the Cougars have been at home this week, they haven’t been “at home” when it comes to hockey, due to the Canada Winter Games taking over CN Centre for women’s hockey this week.

“We’ve been practicing out of Kin 3 this week,” Holick said, “and doing some training

at the Y, because we can’t get into our dress-ing room and weight room.”

A look at the standings with 12 games left in the regular season has Holick pointing to a couple of possibilities for the playoff s.

“We’re still just out of a wild-card spot. We’re fi ve points behind Tri-City (as of Wednesday morning), but we still have a game against them.

“We’ve also got four games left against Kamloops to make up some ground in the division.”

Game time Saturday at CN Centre is 7 p.m.

Allan [email protected]

Friday, February 20, 2015 35www.pgfreepress.com Prince George - SPORTS - Free Press

It was simply a matter of time, and on Sunday the Cariboo Cougars clinched top spot in the B.C. Major Midget League.

Th e Cougars took the title when they downed the Vancouver North-west Giants 4-2 in Burnaby aft er tying 2-2 on Saturday.

Colton Th omas led the attack Sun-day with a goal and two assists, while Justin Almeida, Darren Hards and Steven Jandric had the other goals.

Dorrin Luding started in goal, but was shaken up in a collision with a Giants player. Griff em Outhouse came in and picked up the win. Lud-ing is not expected to miss any time.

Most of the Cougars are off now until the team’s next games in Kel-owna on Feb. 28 and March 1 against the Okanagan Rockets.

Th e Rockets are currently fourth in the standings with 44 points, one more than the Greater Vancouver Canadians and two ahead of the Val-ley West Hawks.

Two Cougars who won’t get as much time off are Almeida and Lud-ing, who will be in Prince George to play with Team BC in the Canada Winter Games.

Team BC sees its fi rst action on Sunday, taking on Team New Bruns-wick at 7:30 p.m. at CN Centre.

Todd Jordan laughs when asked about being on the longest road trip in team history.

“We’re trying to keep fairly active,” says the coach of the UNBC Timberwolves men’s basketball team. “We’re using the weight room here, using some time for study hall.”

Th e Timberwolves are spending this week and next in Kamloops, working out at Th ompson Riv-ers University as they prepare for the fi rst Canada West playoff s in school history. UNBC clinched second place in the Explorer Division with a pair of wins against UBC-Okanagan on the weekend, while Th ompson Rivers was splitting with the divi-sion champs from University of the Fraser Valley.

Th e results left UFV in fi rst place in the division, UNBC in second and TRU in third. TRU opened the Canada West playoff s at home Th ursday against Winnipeg, while UNBC will travel to UBC next weekend for games Feb. 26 and 27 against the Th underbirds, with a third game, if needed, on Feb. 28.

Jordan says having the whole team together for the two weeks before the UBC games is working out well.

“It’s nice to have everyone together so we can focus for the next 10 days. It’s a pretty close group of guys, so I don’t see any problems being together for that long.

“We’ll try to get out a few times, maybe go to one of the malls or something”

He wasn’t disappointed about missing out on this weekend’s playoff round.

“We’ve been playing well, but we’ve got a few guys with nicks and bruises, so it gives them a chance to heal up.

“It also lets us put together a game plan for UBC, because we haven’t seen them this year.”

UBC fi nished third this year in the Pioneer Division, with the two divisions not playing any crossover games during the season. Jordan knows the Timberwolves will be in tough against the Th underbirds.

“Th ey’re a big team. Th ey’re bigger than us at most positions on the court, which wil create some matchup problems for us.

“We’re going to have to really scrap and com-pete.”

In the two wins over UBC-O, Jordan says it was a good team eff ort both games, with him able to use a lot of players in Friday’s 85-56 win.

“We played some of the bench on Friday when we got the big early lead. It was a real breakout

game for Mitch How-den, who had 16 points off the bench.”

Having that depth is going to be impor-tant against UBC, as is knowing what playoff basketball is all about.

“We’re going to check out the games at TRU this weekend,” Jordan said. “It will be good for the players to see some playoff -intensity basketball.”

WomenTh e UNBC Timber-

wolves women’s basket-ball team closed out a disappointing season with a pair of losses at UBC-Okanagan on the

As one of North America’s leading energy infrastructure companies, TransCanada believes in building a strong foundation in the communities where we live and work.

We’re playing a leading role in B.C.’s LNG industry, which will generate opportunities across the province for many years to come.

As a member of the Northern B.C. community, we’re proud to sponsor the 2015 Canada Winter Games in Prince George and help to build a legacy of leadership and healthy competition through sports for future generations.

Visit www.TCSponsorship.com to learn more and watch TransCanada’s 2015 Canada Winter Games sponsorship video.

Building a lasting legacy

provide the following:* Psychological Consultations

* Assessment Psychological, Neuropsychological, Psycho-Educational

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Please discuss with us our alternative approachesto ADHD, Anxiety/Stress, and Memory problems,

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and Dr. David Hallman, R. Psych.(#851 - BC and #226 - Sask)

UNBC making a home on the roadas Timberwolves stay in Kamloops ahead of trip to VancouverAllan [email protected]

weekend.Friday night, UNBC made it close

down the stretch but came up just short, falling 66-60 to the Heat. Sarah Robin, playing her fi nal two games for UNBC, left the way with 26 points and eight rebounds, while Vasiliki Louka added 14 points, and Jasprit Nijjar just missed a double-double, getting 10 points and nine rebounds.

Saturday, it wasn’t as close, as the Timberwolves off ence went cold in the second and third quarters, getting

just 12 points combined, and lost 65-49.

Louka led the Timberwolves with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Th e game marked the end of the UNBC careers of Robin and Kel-lieanne Fluit.

Coach Sergey Shchepotkin said all season he had a young team, and viewed the season as a learning expe-rience for the players, getting more comfortable with the system he has installed.

Courtesy Cadet ProgramPrince George Army Cadet Gabriel Lloyd settles in for a round of shooting in the Provincial Cadet Biathlon Championship last weekend in Whistler. Lloyd and fellow 2618 Royal Canadian Army Cadets Blaise Feltis and Brenden Smith attended the event.

Cadet on course

Cariboo Cougars clinch top spot

www.pgfreepress.com

36 Friday, February 20, 2015 www.pgfreepress.comPrince George - SPORTS - Free Press

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Duchess Park off to provincials

Some decisions have to be made well in advance.

“As soon as I found out our gym was going to be in use during the Canada Winter Games,” Duchess Park senior girls basketball coach Dave Holmes said, “I booked space

at John McInnis for practices. I fi gured we had a good chance to need it.

“So that would have been about a year ago.”

Friday evening, Holmes’ plan-ning was rewarded as the Condors won the North-Central Regional championship with a 74-54 win over Nechako Valley from Vanderhoof.

With spring break now under-way in School District 57 and their home gym in use by the Games, the Condors will be able to get in some practices before heading to Langley for the Pro-vincials in early March.

Holmes said the fi nal against Nechako Valley was what he expected.

“We weren’t expecting any-thing less from them. Th ey play with the right spirit, and they never give up.”

Holmes and the Condors stuck to the same formula which has made them the top-ranked AA team in the province.

“Our philosophy is to come in waves. We get to each quarter, and we keep coming.

“Our depth will wear teams down, but it took a lot of hard work to get the girls to this level.”

While some coaches may look

at the fact the Condors have just 10 players in the lineup and wonder about depth, Holmes says the numbers this year are a blessing.

“In 1996, when we won, we had eight girls on the team and really just six who played most of the minutes.

“To have 10 players is depth.”Th e Condors have lost one

game this season, to a team then ranked No. 3 in the AAA divi-sion.

“We played an extensive early season schedule to see a lot of the teams we fi gured we might play at the provincials,” Holmes said. “I anticipate seeing the top fi ve teams we saw this year will be at the provincials.”

AwardsTh ere were a number of indi-

vidual awards handed out aft er the championship game.

Second Team All-Stars were

Gloria Costanzo (Kelly Road), Ariel Gilbert (College Heights), Nicola Erricson (Duchess Park), and Sydney Andres and Dani Marks (Nechako Valley).

First Team All-Stars were Morgan Redding (College Hights), Jordan Andres and Kassidy Dick (Nechako Valley), and Madison Landry and Emily Holmes (Duchess Park).

Marcie Schlick of Duchess Park was named Top Defensive Player while teammate Alina Shakirova was named the Most Valuable Player.

Th ree players were also nominated by their coaches for the Doug Harshbarger Award, recognizing players who contribute on the court as well in their community. Th is year’s recipients were Anika Wallace (Nechako Valley), Ariel Gilbert (College Heights) and Emily Holmes (Duchess Park).

Condors girls team ranked best in province in AA basketballAllan [email protected]

Allan WISHART/Free PressMarcie Schlick of the Duchess Park Condors looks to harass Nechako Valley’s Kassidy Dick during the AA girls zone championship game at College Heights on Friday evening. Duchess Park won the game 74-54, earning a trip to the provincials.


Allan WISHART/Free PressThese seven members of the local Special Olympics program are in Kamloops this weekend to participate in the Provincial Winter Games, along with other locals in cross-country ski-ing.

Th ere are 15 Special Olympics of B.C. Prince George athletes who have been training hard for the upcoming 2015 SOBC Provincial Winter Games being held in Kamloops February 20 to 22.

Th ese Games happen once every four years and, for some of the athletes, this will be their fi rst time competing at the provincial level. Th e athletes will be joined by 700 athletes and coaches from all over B.C and the Yukon. Th e eight cross country skiers and seven snowshoers all competed in last year’s Regionals, and from those results were chosen to represent our area in the upcom-ing games. Doing well in these games could result in a spot on SOBC Team B.C which will be travelling to Cor-ner Brook, Newfoundland and Lab-rador, to participate in the 2016 SOC Winter Games next February. From there athletes have a chance to get on

the Canadian roster to travel to Aus-tria and be part of the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games.

For the past several months many of the athletes have been working out, fi ve times a week. Many of them are also attending a Performance class where they learn about nutri-tion and mental training. Th ey are eager, and ready to do their best and maybe even bring home some med-als. Th eir hard work and dedication is an inspiration for everyone.

Local SOBC Prince George athletes are:

Cross Country Team: Rita Cave-naile, Barb Conway, Casey Wester-man, Josh Pudney, Danny Lafreniere, Brian Whitefi eld, Kelly Hein, Chantal Chan.

Snowshoe Team: Tegan Raines, Jennifer Germann, Ruth Caldwell, Marinka VanHage, Michael Harris, Adrian Rosen, Chase Caron.

Local Special Olympianscompeting in Kamloops

Dave Dupas is hoping this week’s road trip for the Prince George Spruce Kings is better on and off the ice.

“It was the trip from hell,” the coach said about last weekend’s three games, which saw the Kings beat Langley, but then lose to Cow-ichan Valley and Victo-ria. “It started with the Fraser Canyon being closed, so we had to loop back, so we were late get-ting to Langley.”

Aft er beating the Riv-ermen 7-3 on Th ursday, the Kings headed for Vancouver Is-land – and more trouble. Th e bus was leaking coolant as they got to Cow-ichan Valley, so they were late getting to the rink, where they lost 3-0.

“We got back to the hotel,” Dupas says, “and the back brake was gone. We spent all day driving around looking for parts.”

A 7-3 loss to Victoria wrapped up the weekend with what Dupas called, ‘the worst game we’ve played in a long time.”

“Th ey out-competed us. Th ey were battling and we should have been battling.”

Th e really bad news for the Spruce Kings was that Langley was also hav-ing a losing weekend, meaning the Kings were just two points behind the Rivermen for second place in the Mainland Division heading into a Th ursday matchup in Langley.

“If we win one of those games (on the Island),” Dupas said, “we’re tied with Lang-ley, and we’ve got three games left against them.”

He said while every-one played well against Langley, the standout player to him on the weekend was Brogan O’Brien.

“He went head-to-head against the other team’s top players all weekend, and played

really well.”Aft er the Th ursday game in Lan-

gley, the Spruce Kings wrap up the road portion of the regular season with a game tonight (Friday) in Sur-rey and then play Sunday in Chilli-wack.

Th en it’s back home to host Lan-gley for the fi nal two games of the regular season on Feb. 27 and 28.

“We have to play well this week-end,” Dupas said. “If we do, we’ll make those fi nal two games mean-ingful.”

Game time for both home games is 7 p.m. at the Coliseum.

Spruce Kings had “trip from hell”Allan [email protected]

COACHDAVE DUPAS

pgfreepress.com

Be fi rst to add to the story or read what your neighbour thinks. Be a part of your community paper. Comment online.


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Mitch Thibault, a snowboarding and

skiing coach at Tabor Mountain,

was one of the most recent Hometown

Heroes, receiving a bursary from Pacific

Western Brewing.Allan WISHART/

Free Press

Thibault a HeroPacifi c Western Brewing Company (PWB),

an Offi cial Sponsor of the 2015 Canada Winter Games, has presented Hometown Heroes bursa-ries to another four B.C. athletes and coaches.

Kazuko Komatsu, owner and CEO of PWB, says: “For the past year PWB has supported the Canada Winter Games with our B.C.-wide Hometown Heroes program. With the presentation ceremonies on Saturday at our Tabor Mountain beer garden, we have honoured a total of 16 athletes, coaches and mentors from all corners of the province.

“In this, the fi nal round, we are proud to have selected a local hero, Mitch Th ibault, to represent the best in sporting citizenship in Prince George.”

Th ibault, 24, is a Tabor Mountain-based snow-boarding and skiing coach who started skiing when he was two-years-old and snowboarding at seven. Th e son of Tabor Mountain Ski Resort owner Fern Th ibault, Mitch got his ski instructor’s ticket when he was 15 and his snowboard instructor’s ticket shortly aft er. One of his snowboarding students, Meryeta O’Dine, is competing in the 21015 Winter Games.

Mitch says: “It is a privilege to be recognized in my home town for my eff orts to help snow-boarding and skiing athletes perform at their best. Th anks PWB!”

Th e other three heroes honoured Saturday include Okanagan sprinter Keefer Joyce, Vancou-ver Island hockey coach Christina Sharun, and Burnaby javelin thrower Tiff any Matteazzi.

Th e Hometown Heroes program was initially formed through a dynamic partnership between Pacifi c Western Brewing and Pacifi cSport Northern BC. Partial proceeds from the sales of PWB prod-ucts have been donated through a society founda-tion to support these heroes with $2,000 bursaries.

Heroes were selected in each of four regions: the Northern and Southern Interior, Vancouver Island and Greater Vancouver.

Th e fi rst four Heroes received their bursaries in May 2014 in Vancouver ceremonies hosted by medal-winning Olympian speed skater Denny Morrison. Th e winners included Quesnel Paralym-pics hopeful Landon McGauley, Kelowna speed skater Nick Goplen, Port Alberni educator and coach Tom McEvay, and North Vancouver javelin-throwing track star Andy White.

In July, a second round of Heroes was honoured in ceremonies at the Prince George brewery, again hosted by Morrison. Th e winners included Revelstoke freeskiier Adam McCraw, Smithers gymnastics coach Alana Jensen, UBC women’s hockey player Danielle Dube, and Victoria Special Olympics fi gure skater Emily Walzak.

Th e third round winners selected in October were Victoria women’s rugby star Julianne Zuss-man, Kamloops track & fi eld hammer thrower Adam Keenan, Prince George wheelchair basket-ball player Avril Harris, and Langley curling coach Paul Tardi.


attraction speaks for itself, the P.G. Cougars are going down to the wire for a playoff berth, the P.G. Spruce Kings are battling for second in their division, the Major Midget Cariboo Cougars have clinched fi rst place, the UNBC men’s basketball team gets its fi rst taste of Canada West playoff competition, and the Patti Knezevic P.G. team represented B.C. at the National Scott Tourna-ment of Hearts. Now that’s performance!

From The Quote Rack:

At a Rockies fan-tasy camp, 88-year-old Lew Dunlap charged the mound aft er being buzzed by a pitch. Th at’s it – no more pitching at fantasy camps for Pedro Martinez.

Contributor Bill Littlejohn of South Lake

Tahoe, California

Th e Oscar Mayer Wienermobile was damaged in a crash on the weekend in Pennsyl-vania. Hope the driver wasn’t hot-dogging it.

Bad news for Dodgers fans, the 2015 season may still be in a TV

blackout. Worse news for Lakers fans. Th e rest of their 2015 season won’t be.

Contributor Janice Hough of Palo Alto,

California (www.left -coastsportsbabe.com)

And in case you missed it:

Russell Westbrook earned MVP honours aft er scoring 41 in the NBA All-Star Game. Th at’s one short of Wilt Chamberlain’s All-Star

record of 42 in one night — points, not women.

Comedy writer RJ Currie (www.Sports-

deke.com)

Hartley Miller is the sports director and morning news anchor for 94.3 the Goat. He also writes for myprince-georgenow.com. Send along a quote, note, or anecdote to [email protected]

Follow him on twitter: @Hartley_Miller

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Quite the week for Prince GeorgeFriday, February 13, 2015 was

arguably the most celebrated night in Prince George sports history.

Sure, there was no champi-onship won, or even a playoff victory but it’s not every day that P.G. stages an Opening Cer-emonies for a truly national event like the Canada Winter Games (CWG). It’s not every day, the UNBC men’s basketball team clinches second place in its Canada West Division, and it is not every day the Prince George Cougars win on the road against a divi-sion leader in the Eastern Conference.

Th ere have been many Prince George teams that have enjoyed golden moments at Canadian championships including the PG Oldstylers Senior Lacrosse team that won the Presidents Cup (1974); the PG Mohawks Senior hockey team that captured the Hardy Cup (1978); and more re-cently the UNBC men’s basketball team that took top honors at the CCAA Championship (2010). In addition, there have been P.G. youth teams that have also earned gold at nationals. Th ese accom-plishments are noteworthy and were reason to cheer but didn’t necessarily have a broad appeal to the majority of local residents.

We all knew the CWG would be special and as the midway mark approaches, we continue to appreciate the magnitude of this

event. Th e Opening Ceremonies, with mostly local performers in-cluding a strong Lheidli T’enneh presence, were superb. Th at really wasn’t a surprise considering the countless hours of preparation that was needed to make the evening highly notable.

Th e Opening Cer-emonies on its own merit, considering the volume of P.G. resi-dents that have a con-nection (participating or watching) to the Games, may be in the discussion for historic signifi cance. Sure, with no games played, one could quibble about the sports role, but not everything has to have a win or a

loss to understand the gist.Th e extravaganza of the Open-

ing Ceremonies was undoubtedly a combination of the steak, po-tato and appetizer of last Friday. Th row in the bun (UNBC road win 85-64 at UBCO to secure a fi rst round bye) and the butter (Cougars 4-2 road win in Medi-cine Hat) and it added to a meal of mega proportions that any chef would be proud to serve.

• • •Th e UNBC Timberwolves

men’s basketball team quietly moved up the ranks in securing its fi rst ever playoff spot at the Canada West elite level. Aft er starting the season 0-4, with three of those losses by four points or less, it would have been easy to get discouraged, but the Timber-wolves stayed the course and im-proved as the season progressed.

Th e 12-8 UNBC men climbed out of the hole to fi nish second out of six in the Pioneer Division, hav-ing won seven of their last eight games. Th e Timberwolves will be a massive underdog when they get a taste of playoff action on the road in a best of three series when they play the UBC Th underbirds (Feb. 26, 27 and, if necessary, 28). UBC, winners of its last fi ve, fi n-ished third out of 11 in the much tougher Pioneer Division with a 14-6 record. Pressure? Th at’s not something the Timberwolves will face when outside expecta-tions are the big university will manhandle the little one.

• • •Th e P.G. Cougars are in post-

season contention largely because of superb goaltending over their last seven games (3-2-1-1). In each of those seven the Cougars were substantially outshot, a total of 291-175. Ty Edmonds, in six of those games, stopped 229 of 248 shots while rookie Tavin Grant shined with 40 saves in a 3-2 overtime triumph in Red Deer. Despite the 5-1 loss in Edmon-ton, the Cougars appear out of a slump that had them lose 12 straight to close out January. With just 12 games to go, the Cougars’ goaltending will be the most infl uential factor whether they make the playoff s or not.

• • •If one remains hesitant to call

Friday, February 13 the most momentous date in P.G. sports history, I doubt anyone could dispute that the last two weeks of this month will go down as the most compelling sports time the city has ever seen. Th e CWG

HART BEATHARTLEYMILLER


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Documents

Prince George Free Press, February 20, 2015