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A home on Broadway Avenue South in the Lake City was lost to a fire earlier this morning (December 10).

The Williams Lake Fire Department responded to the incident late last night (Tuesday) and when crews arrived around 11:30, Fire Chief Evan Dean said they discovered heavy smoke and flames and that all occupants were safely out of the building.

“Firefighters knocked the blaze down by 2 am,” Dean said, “but the fire reignited just before 6 am leaving the building fully involved. An excavator and aerial stream were used to bring it under control.”

Dean said no injuries were reported and the cause has been confirmed as a cooking related accident.

Three fire trucks, 26 firefighters, and support from 150 Mile House Volunteer Fire Department, BC Emergency Health Services, RCMP, BC Hydro, and Fortis were all on scene.

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Nanaimo has received a $78,600 bonus from BC Hydro for upgrades to the water-treatment systems at Beban Pool and the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre to help offset implementation costs. 

The city replaced its ultraviolet disinfection systems with new energy-efficient filtration systems. In a news release, the city said UV treatments formerly were the industry standard for pools but can contribute to poor indoor air quality, consume large amounts of energy and be expensive to maintain. 

When it was time to replace the old UV system, the city said it tested a new chemistry-based filtration system at one pool that could save more than $34,000 annually in energy costs. 

“This upgrade benefits us in many ways with enhanced water quality, superior air quality and substantial energy savings. By adopting cutting-edge technology, we’re not just improving the experience for pool users but also promoting the city’s dedication to sustainability,” said Mike Bryson, deputy director of civic facilities. 

BC Hydro said it appreciates Nanaimo’s commitment to energy conservation. 

“Through our Commercial Energy Manager Program, the city is enhancing community spaces while advancing sustainability goals. These efforts not only earned bonus funding under the program but also demonstrate true leadership in creating a healthier, more sustainable future for residents,” said Meaghan Fahey, key account manager for BC Hydro. 

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RCMP officers returned to the Walbran Forest Service Road on Monday, December 8, to continue enforcing a court-ordered injunction against protestors blockading forestry operations.

The injunction was granted to Tsawak-qin Forestry Limited Partnership and Tsawak-qin Forestry Inc.

Police discovered that a new encampment had been established following previous enforcement action in late November, with physical structures erected on a bridge that provided the only access to a company worksite.

Four adult men were arrested at the site for allegedly breaching the court injunction. One of the individuals was also arrested for criminal obstruction of police for allegedly resisting arrest. Police confirmed that another person arrested will be held in custody for breaching their release conditions from a prior arrest on November 25.

Following the arrests, the encampment structures were dismantled, and the road was cleared for passage.

Since enforcement began on November 25, the Lake Cowichan RCMP has made a total of eleven arrests. The allegations include eight for breaching the injunction, one for criminal mischief, one for obstruction, and one for breaching release conditions.

All individuals arrested are scheduled to make a court appearance in January 2026. The RCMP stated they will continue to patrol the Walbran Forest Service Road to ensure unimpeded access for forestry workers.

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A high streamflow advisory is in effect for the entire Regional District of Central Kootenay.

The advisory was issued by the B.C. River Forecast Centre on Decc. 12 and means river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly.

No major flooding is expected, although minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

The forecast centre said a series of atmospheric rivers is impacting the province this week.

The heaviest rainfall is focused on coastal areas, although spillover into the interior ranges of the southern Interior and southeast B.C. is possible.

Temperatures are expected to rise through Wednesday. While the first precipitation is expected to fall as snow, a transition to rain and melting snow is possible through Wednesday.

Officials said rivers are expected to rise Wednesday in response to rainfall and snowmelt.

Current hydrologic modelling is forecasting higher flows around the Okanagan, Boundary and Kootenay regions.

A significant flood hazard is not expected, although localized high flows, particularly in lower-elevation creeks and smaller watersheds, is possible.

“Heavy rain and high streamflow bring increased risk for unstable banks, river erosion, submerged roads, swift water hazards, flooding and landslides,” said the B.C. River Forecast Centre.

“Stay clear of the banks of swift running rivers and never drive across flooded roads, bridges or river crossings. At this time of year leaves can clog storm drains and impact urban drainage. Keep storm drains clear.”

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November was a steady month for single-family home sales in Prince George according to the B.C. Northern Real Estate Board.

Sixty-two single-detached homes were sold last month, an increase of seven (55) when compared to 12 months earlier.

In addition, the average selling price spiked by 30-grand during that same time period going from $491,312 (November 2024) to $521,304.

Director, Kristin Houghtaling told MyPGNow.com it was a pretty positive result given the time of year on the calendar.

“This month was a little bit slower than last November but overall, the single-detached sales have actually increased by about 13% over last year. It is a little bit slow right now, which is typical for the season but its looking strong and resilient.”

She expects a surge in activity once the holiday season comes to a close.

“I think so. I think that is what we normally see around that time of year as the positivity is shifting upwards and people start looking forward on what is to come and we are expecting a pretty decent market I would think.”

Houghtaling stated with the Bank of Canada holding its rate steady at 2.25% is good news for potential home buyers.

“Everything is not changing so drastically like we had seen a few years past where they dropped the rates really fast and then came back up really quick. Having nice stability and even lines through there and it brings some structure to the market for people looking for mortgages and stuff like that.”

On a year-to-date basis, 779 single-family homes have sold, selling for an average price of $539,249 – an increase of 24-grand when compared to November 2024.

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The Cowichan District Hospital Foundation (CDHF) says it hit several milestones during 2025, but its biggest achievement has been fundraising for the new Quw’utsun Valley Hospital. 

Fundraising efforts began with a $5-million matching campaign by Jim Pattison for critical hospital equipment, and CDHF CEO Namoi Low said the campaign is now in its final stretch. 

“It’s the last mile and we’re finishing strong,” she said. “So far, we’ve raised over $16 million in the campaign.” 

Low said the funds will purchase more than 260 pieces of equipment — including the MRI — for the new hospital once it is completed. 

Marketing director Deborah Rogers said money raised does not stop at the new hospital. Some has already gone toward existing facilities — a milestone for 2025, she said. 

“We’ve also been able to purchase smaller pieces of equipment for the current hospital,” she said. “We completed a small renovation at Cainsmore Place and provided beds for residents there.” 

CDHF plans to host its gala on March 14 next year. The foundation said it expects the new hospital to be completed in the fall, when the contractor hands the keys to Island Health. 

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Two Smoke Eaters and a Buck comprise the Kootenay contingent for the BCHL All-Star game.

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The B.C. Highway Patrol’s Light Up the Province check stop nabbed some naughty drivers who were caught for impaired driving.

Across the north, 400 vehicles were checked leading to 70 tickets and 21 prohibitions.

“Most drivers are supportive of police efforts to keep impaired drivers off the road, even though check stops can be an inconvenience,” said Inspector Adam Tallboy with BC Highway Patrol.

“Mandatory Alcohol Screening continues to be a great tool, as multiple impaired drivers were pulled off the road even though they did not show any symptoms until they were breath tested.”

Province-wide, over 52-thousand vehicles were checked, up considerably when compared to 2024 (43,713).

The South Coast, which includes Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley inspected over 33-thousand vehicles, leading to 374 ticket violations and 111 driving bans.

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The weather wasn’t kind to people using the Trail Regional Airport last month.

Manager Enrico Moehrle told city council this week there were 22 flight cancellations in November: one due to aircraft maintenance, and all the rest due to weather.

“This year this has been our worst month for cancellations and December is yet to come,” Moehrle said.

The cancelled flights resulted in eight Pacific Coastal Airlines shuttle bus runs to and from the Penticton airport with a total of 289 passengers. The bus operates between Oct. 1 and March 31 on days where all flights are cancelled due to weather.

Moerhle said another 1,389 passengers did manage to fly in and out of Trail last month.

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Cooper Struckel is the Trail Smoke Eaters version of hockey’s Swiss army knife.

The 19-year-old rookie has played primarily on an energy line with fellow first-year BCHLers.

Struckel is the lone newbie on that line with junior hockey experience as he played last season with the New Jersey Rockets and enjoys being a mentor.

“I think it’s great,” said the native of Chicago.

“I’ve been in their shoes a little bit before and I think it’s fun to help guys out and make them better (players) and help grow as a team,” he added.

Struckel has two goals and eight assists in 23 games this season and says setting up line mate Brayden Rotach for his first BCHL goal was just as satisfying as his first tally.

“Yeah it was pretty cool to see that one go in, it took a little bit, I know he was probably thinking about it a little bit, but it’s good to get one in and now he can just start flowing,” commented Struckel.

The five-foot-10, 170-pound forward who came up through the Ohio Blue Jackets minor hockey program has also enjoyed taking some shifts on the wing on a line with with more experienced forwards.

“I hadn’t played on the wing for a few years, but it’s not a hard switch for me, I played there a little bit growing up and it was a good few games,” surmised the versatile forward.

Struckel says whether at centre or the wing, he continues to work on a specific skill set.

“I’m really just focusing on my defense right now and really good structure, being a reliable guy, just good consistency and I think everything else can follow and skill can take over,” he told Vista news.

Struckel’s skating ability and work ethic caught the attention of Smokies brass as previous development camps.

His performances at main camp and preseason games in September solidified Struckel’s spot on this year’s team and he is committed to making an impact on a club intended on challenging for a league championship.

“I think it’s just trying to do whatever I can to help the team win and whatever the coaches want me to do, I’ll help out,” he promised.

Struckel scored his first BCHL goal on Oct. 4, during a 4-3 overtime win in Brooks.

The Smokies host the Bandits Friday night at Cominco Arena.

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An annual tradition to help those in need during the Holiday Season will be taking place later this week.

On Friday (December 12) 100 Mile House RCMP in partnership with Frescho will be holding their annual “Cram the Cruiser” event.

They’ll be set up outside of Freshco in the Cariboo Mall Parking lot taking donations from 11 am to 2 pm.

“The goal of the event is to load a police vehicle with donations of non-perishable food items or cash donations which will be donated to the 100 Mile House Food Bank and Loaves and Fishes.” Sargeant Brian Lamb said. “The event has always been well supported by the community and we are hoping for the same this year to help families in need.”

Lamb noted he himself has taken part in this event in the past and that it has been something the Detachment has had great success with ensuring that they leave with sometimes more than one loaded Police vehicle full of donations.

“Like I said the community has always been great in supporting this cause and I do know that the Food Bank and Loaves and Fishes are greatly appreciative of any donation that the community makes. Cram the Cruiser has been going on for quite a few years now,” Lamb said, “Freshco has always been great donating their time and their resources as well.”

Lamb added with the success they’ve had they would like to keep it going for as long as they can keep it going.

“I had the opportunity to volunteer last year at the Food Bank just before Christmas and there’s definitely a lot of people in need out there for these items. Around Christmas time if we can make things just a little bit better any donation we receive is gratefully appreciated.”

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A federal Conservative motion calling for a new pipeline to British Columbia’s coast was voted down in Parliament on Tuesday.

The non-binding motion from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was defeated 196-139.

Parts of the non-binding motion were borrowed from the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Ottawa and Alberta announced last month.

However, the Conservatives said their motion would override the oil tanker ban in B.C.’s northern waters, while the MOU said there would be an adjustment to the ban “if necessary.”

The Conservatives note there are divisions within the Liberal caucus around support for a new pipeline.

“It’s time for the Prime Minister and his Liberal caucus to declare their support for a pipeline to the Pacific in a recorded vote,” said a statement from the party.

On Tuesday morning, federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson called the motion a “cynical ploy” and a “cheap political stunt” aimed at fostering divisiveness.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said during question period Poilievre’s motion leaves out key parts of the MOU, including sections on the industrial carbon price, methane regulations and emissions targets.

“You have to eat the entire meal, not just the appetizer,” Carney said in French.

The MOU states Alberta is to submit an application to the federal Major Projects Office (MPO) to fast-track a pipeline by next July.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith had been lobbying for a new pipeline for months, but reports last month of the agreement with the federal government still came as a surprise to B.C. leaders, who were left out of the talks.

Premier David Eby opposes a new pipeline project and has said repealing the oil tanker ban is a non-starter for his government and for coastal First Nations.

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The Town of Smithers will be looking into removing “rescue mission” as an allowed use in the C-1A zoning definition.

This was voted on during tonight’s (Tuesday) council meeting with the motion being made by Councillor Frank Wray.

He made the motion in relation to the new temporary warming shelter in town which opened mid November.

“I don’t know if people really believe us, but it was a surprise to council,” Wray said.

The shelter is located in the former Fabrications building at the intersection of Queen Street and Third Avenue which was zoned C-1A with it being permitted as a rescue mission.

Wray added B.C. Housing, who provided the Bulkley Valley Harm Reduction Society funding to operate the shelter, did not communicate with the town prior to giving the go ahead.

“I think sometimes when things are in zoning and other bylaws, we expect cooperation from people that are in there,” he said.

Wray also called it a “heads up” that future warming shelters should be brought to council before its established.

“It’s unfortunate I feel this is where we’re at and we can’t trust the process,” said Councillor Genevieve Paterson.

Staff had told Wray there were a couple of ways the removal of rescue mission as a use in C-1A could be approached and a report would be presented at a later date.

The motion was originally planned to be made at the November 25th meeting but was postponed due to few councillors being present in-person.

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Sports by Hartley Wednesday, December 10th, 2025  as of 12:05 a.m.

The Prince George Spruce Kings have acquired 19-year-old defenseman Nick Bianchi and the BCHL playing rights of 20-year-old forward Ewan Rennie from the Langley Rivermen in exchange for the BCHL playing rights of 19-year-old forward Max Pendy.

In 20 games with Langley this season, Bianchi 11 points, including two goals.

The Spruce Kings acquired Bianchi because of the departure of defenseman Fraser Leonard, who signed with the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL.

Rennie is currently the leading scorer for the Estevan Bruins of SJHL with 44 points in 27 games.

Pendy is the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s leading scorer with 49 points in 26 games.

The Prince George Spruce Kings have acquired defenseman Nick Bianchi (06) and the BCHL playing rights to forward Ewan Rennie (05) in exchange for the BCHL playing rights to forward Max Pendy (06).

DETAILS: https://t.co/3HFxmNYD5k pic.twitter.com/R80oVPbVyC

— Prince George Spruce Kings (@SpruceKings) December 9, 2025

The PG Spruce Kings, riding a 4-game winning streak, visit the (15-6-1) Coquitlam Express Friday night at 7:00 and the (14-12) Langley Rivermen Saturday night at 7:15.

The (14-9-1) Spruce Kings sit in second place in the Coastal East Division just two points behind Coquitlam and one ahead of Langley.

The next home games for PG will be on Dec 19th and 20th against the Cowichan Valley Capitals at the Kopar Memorial Arena.

WHL:

The Prince George Cougars have four games left before their Christmas break with two of them at home this weekend.

The (20-8) Cougars host the (14-11-2-2) Kamloops Blazers Friday night at 7:00 and Saturday night at 6:00.

Friday is Carson Carels Bobblehead night while Saturday is the Teddy Bear Toss game.

Prince George leads the BC Division by 7 points over Penticton and by 8 over Kamloops.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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One person was injured after a mobile home fire south of Nanaimo on Tuesday morning.

Nanaimo Fire Rescue deputy fire chief Stuart Kenning said firefighters were alerted to the blaze on South Forks Road around 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 9. On arrival crews saw the motor home fully ablaze.

Kenning comments:

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The Spruce City Wildlife Association has recently completed a project that will bring more fish to Cottonwood Island Park.

This past weekend, the Cottonwood Island Side Channel was recently reconnected to the Nechako River, bringing new habitat back to this part of the watershed.

“Cottonwood Island Side Channel is actually a highwater side channel, so that means it allows water in only during highwater events, such as freshet or STMP when they release the water for the sockeye to migrate up,” said Project Lead Jesi Lauzon.

“Those high water events allow salmon and other fish to get into the channel, but then the water drops so fast that it actually traps those fish in isolated pools, and then those pools become void of oxygen.”

Lauzon said these pools can become too hot in the summer and dry up completely, and if they do last, they can freeze solid in the winter.

“This channel has been an area of salmon stranding and mortality for decades,” she explained.

Lauzon added the project started as an academic assignment for a class she was taking at the University.

“When I had spoken with Spruce City, I had just started volunteering with them kind of at the same time, when I spoke with them, this project seemed like it could be way more than just an academic assignment, that we could actually maybe do something,” she said.

“In order to do that, we had to kind of create a plan to get the data, to show us what was really going on in the side channel,” she explained.

Lauzon said she hopes this will allow year-round water flow into the side channel.

“One thing that people didn’t realize was that there was thousands of fish in that channel all the time when people are going there,” she explained.

“Knowing that made it look even less healthy of an ecosystem, of an area, so opening that channel up does provide an opportunity for people to be able to see fish, because the water that’s coming through the channel is clean.”

In terms of what species Prince George residents can expect to see in the channel, Lauzon said there’s a variety.

“Over the last several years that we’ve been in there, we have seen quite a few different species,” she said.

“Chinook salmon fry, of course, rainbow trout, we’ve seen burbot in the channel, we’ve seen lampreys, there’s been lots of pike minnow, red sided shiners, suckers, that kind of stuff, but seeing things like the lamprey and sculpin, they’re unique fish, so they’re really cool to be able to see, and hopefully, with the water being as clear as it is, we’ll actually get to see those species a little more often.”

Spruce City Wildlife Association Volunteers will be continuing to monitoring the side-channel to see what fish are coming in, as well as water quality.

“The most important part of this project, from Spruce City’s perspective was the collaboration that it took to have this project happen,” she said.

“This project has been something Spruce City has been working for several years, and having so many different groups, I believe it was 14 different organizations that came together to make this project possible.”

Lauzon added any area that was disturbed throughout the area during construction will be replanted and healed in the spring.

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Two men were arrested in 100 Mile House as part of an ongoing RCMP counterfeit investigation.

Sergeant Brian Lamb says the 100 Mile House RCMP, with the assistance of the Cariboo Chilcotin Crime Reduction Unit, executed multiple search warrants at residences on Horse Lake Road on December 3, in which the two men were arrested as a result.

“Police seized a small amount of counterfeit US currency, several computers, a large amount of various gift cards, firearms, and a large sum of Canadian currency in $100 bills,” Lamb says. He added that the two men were held in custody but were later released.

“The investigation is ongoing, and reports of counterfeit currency continue to occur in the 100 Mile House area in denominations of $100s and $50s.”

100 Mile House RCMP have been investigating counterfeit $100 and $50 bills circulating in the town since early September.

One person was arrested in 100 Mile House in November, while the RCMP say there was a spike in counterfeit $100 bills circulating across the Cariboo.

Police say some of these counterfeits can be “quite convincing to the untrained eye”, while others have more “telling” signs such as peeling plastics and foils, discolourations, missing serial numbers, and wrong denominations.

Even with this, police are still seeing a trend of regular reports of counterfeit currency in the community, and local businesses are taking the biggest hit.

“It’s several bills per week from varying locations across the community,” says Lamb. “When businesses come into contact with these and take these bills, they are around of that money. That’s something that has become hugely problematic because there are victims associated to this, and its usually the businesses in the community that suffer from it.”

While the investigation into the counterfeits is ongoing. Police say the best way to get educated on how to spot a fake, or to get bills checked are getting them checked at banks.

They also say to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and contact the Bank of Canada to file reports and get assistance.

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A presentation on Saturday by the Creston Museum will help mark the local curling club’s centennial.

Museum manager Tammy Bradford says the club was organized in December 1925 and played its first matches in January 1926.

The first rink was in the Fall Fair building. A dedicated curling rink was built in 1926. But Bradford says Creston was a relative latecomer to the game.

“What’s interesting is how late, compared to other communities, Creston started curling,” she said. “We’ve got curling going on all around us 20, sometimes 30 years earlier than we see it happening in Creston. So one of the things we’re exploring is just why that was.”

Bradford said they are also looking at certain club traditions that were there at the beginning and continue today.

“Some of the stuff that takes place off the ice, some of the friendly and not-so-friendly rivalries that have taken place on the ice, and also some interesting leading-the-way trends for the curling club, as far as ice sports in Creston goes,” she said.

Bradford said curling’s popularity in Creston has ebbed and flowed, but it has always been a leading winter sport, second only to hockey.

Saturday’s presentation is at the museum starting at noon. Admission is free for museum members and $5 for non-members. 

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Conservation North is wanting the province to step up in ending old growth forest logging across B.C.

Old growth forests are habitat for animals including mountain caribou, northern goshawk, and more, but between 2021 and 2025, 27,000 hectares of rare sub-boreal old growth was logged, with Prince George and surrounding communities in the middle of that area.

On Friday, Premier David Eby opposed a Vancouver Island pulp mill from using old growth forests to prevent a closure, a decision Director Michelle Connolly wants in Central B.C.

“We wanted to point out that old growth from our region does go into the pulp mills in Quesnel and here in Prince George.”

“Why does it not make sense to have old growth go into pulp mills on the island, but it does make sense for them to go here?”

Connolly said that it’s inconsistent and a bit of a double standard, but are giving him the benefit of the doubt that he’s unaware that old growth forests go to pulp mills here.

The province’s forestry sector is currently under strain, with some of the more recent hits being close to home including Brink Forest Products, the Drax Pellet Plant in Williams Lake, and a West Fraser mill closure in 100 Mile House.

She said they’d like to see mills transition away from natural logging, and instead use forests that have already been logged or better managing plantations, also deemed as commercial thinning.

When asked if that transition would be easy enough for struggling mills to make, Connolly said it would be a process involving serious changes to the tenure system, which involves a lot of decision making from local leaders.

She noted it’s important for them to continue showing the province and decision makers in Victoria how they feel about better managing local landscapes.

More information about Conservation North can be found here.

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The Sunshine Coast Regional District says the Hopkins Landing Dock is now open after repair work. 

The dock closed in June 2023 because of safety concerns. Work began last month though the SCRD says more remains to be done. 

“Those familiar with the dock will notice that the original float is not currently attached,” the SCRD said in a news release. When the dock closed, the float was removed and placed in storage. A detailed inspection last April revealed the float was too deteriorated to reuse. 

The regional district noted the dock’s original float remains detached; a recent inspection found it too damaged for reuse, so a separate contract will be needed for its replacement. 

“The SCRD would like to thank the community for their valuable input throughout the engagement process and for their patience as this project was completed,” the release said. 

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Smithers RCMP and the Northern Society for Domestic Peace (NSDP) is raising awareness about the increased risk of intimate partner violence during the holidays.

This coincides with the federal government’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence which ends on Wednesday.

Police said intimate partner violence includes a range of harms caused by a current or former intimate partners like physical, sexual, emotional, or connected to coercive control.

“Awareness that violence can amplify over the holidays is a sad but necessary consideration,” said Airika Owen, NSDP Sexual Assault Services Coordinator.

Mounties said about 125 calls about intimate partner violence are received annually with it being a serious crime matter.

Officers add consent and bystander awareness are important aspects of community safety and to trust your instincts when noticing concerning behaviour.

Supportive actions could include checking with the person when safe, creating space or a way out of the situation, and contacting the police or other trusted support.

Some supports offered in the Smithers area include:

• Crisis counselling
• Assistance accessing legal supports
• Accompaniment to hospital, RCMP, or court
• Filing a third-party report
• Help applying for victim assistance funding
• Safety supports such as phones, lock repairs, security tools, and safety planning

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British Columbia Attorney General Niki Sharma is welcoming proposed changes to Canada’s Criminal Code aimed at toughening laws around intimate partner violence.

The Protecting Victims Act, tabled by federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser, would classify hate-motivated murders as first degree, including those that occur alongside controlling or coercive behaviour of an intimate partner, sexual violence or exploitation. The act would also create a new criminal offence related to patterns of coercive or controlling behaviour.

The legislation would provide guidance for courts on how to deal with delays, so that fewer cases are dismissed because of lengthy procedural issues. Other measures aim to improve survivors’ access to information about their case and make testimonial aids more accessible.

“These are historic changes that I believe will make a difference,” said Sharma on Tuesday. “The criminal code and our legal system must clearly and unequivocally reflect the seriousness of hurting an intimate partner.”

Other proposed changes would prohibit the distribution of non-consensual sexual deepfakes, increase penalties for the distribution of intimate images without consent, prohibit threats to distribute such images, and increase penalties for sexual assault on summary conviction.

The act also includes tougher penalties for child predators and measures to address online sexploitation and child luring.

Sharma said the legislation reflects many of the changes B.C. has been advocating for.

In June, an independent report by Dr. Kim Stanton, former head of the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund, said gender‑based violence should be declared an epidemic in B.C. The report made 21 recommendations to improve how B.C.’s legal and justice system handles such cases. 

The province recently released a fall update, saying it has made progress on 13 of those recommendations. 

It says three priority actions for the government moving forward will be updating policy guidance related to intimate partner and sexual violence, implementing consistent risk assessments across the  B.C. legal system to help prevent repeat violence, and developing an internal accountability mechanism to monitor the province’s progress on the recommendations. 

B.C.’s Violence Against Women in Relationships Policy currently serves as guidance for those working with victims of intimate partner violence, but it hasn’t been significantly updated since 2010.

The Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability says 137 women and girls have been killed by violence so far this year, including 27 in B.C.

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Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) was recognized recently with an award.

On December 4, their financial team was given the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association (AFOA) of BC’s Best Practices award for large communities (over 500 members).

Chief Willie Sellars said to get that award it really holds up all the hard work that our finance team has done, that our Council has strived for, and that our community holds up, and I couldn’t be more proud of them.

Sellars noted the award reiterates all the hard work and the vision that they have as a Council.

“We have our own Financial Administration Law and those checks and balances for making sure that we are holding up that transparency with membership. We have guidelines, we have best practices we are following that are consistent with those across the country. What it really shines the light on is that success, that transparency is really modelled through the successes that you see with WLFN and what we’re doing, not only for the Williams Lake First Nation and our membership, but in the region, the Cariboo Chilcotin and of course the City of Williams Lake.”

Sellars added they have done a lot of exciting things over the past 10 years in regards to building, regarding partnerships, being financially sound and this is exactly what it showcases, it keeps us on that track and reaffirms the hard work and the honesty and integrity of our organization.

In a release the Vice President of Indigenous Banking (BC Yukon) Doug Bourque stated “With disciplined long-term planning, cultural grounding, and strong inter-governmental partnerships, WLFN has built one of the most resilient, forward-thinking First Nation governments in BC. These achievements reflect a collective effort of Chief and Council, staff, Elders, community members, and leadership across all departments.”

“Our annual audit you can see the success and what we’re doing with that success is re-investing it back into the community at WLFN, re-investing it back into the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Chilcotin. And what comes with that investment is the trust of not only of the Indigenous population that’s here but the non-Indigenous population.” Sellars said.

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A longtime volunteer in Qualicum Beach has received the town’s 2025 Above & Beyond Award.

Pat Jacobson was honoured for her dedication to environmental projects, community service, and conservation efforts.

Acting Mayor Scott Harrison praised her quiet leadership, noting she steps in to help without seeking recognition.

“She doesn’t look for recognition but simply sees what needs to be done and steps forward. Pat reminds us of what citizen leadership truly looks like: thoughtful, consistent, community-minded, and deeply rooted in a love for Qualicum Beach,” said Harrison.

Each year, the town invites the community to nominate a standout volunteer for the award.

Jacobson received hers at the Volunteer Appreciation Reception, and the plaque will be on display in Town Hall.

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A dominant weekend led to some off-ice accolades for a member of the Prince George Spruce Kings.

Tai Ushio was named the BCHL’s Third Star of the Week after tallying six points in two games.

During Friday’s 5-4 triumph over the Victoria Grizzlies, Ushio recorded a goal and three assists including game-winner.

Saturday’s rematch saw the 20-year-old from Japan collect a goal and an assist in a convincing 7-3 win, extending his point streak to seven games.

Ushio has 31 points on the season, tied for seventh-most in the BCHL.

He along with Ozbej Rep will represent Team World during next month’s All-Star Weekend in Spruce Grove.

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The Comox Valley Fire Chiefs Association is reminding residents about the importance of maintaining recreational vehicles and reducing the risk of preventable emergencies. 

Bruce Green, regional rural fire chief for the Comox Valley Regional District, said proper maintenance, safe fuel storage and awareness of surroundings are key in avoiding accidents. 

“While RVs are not designed for living in on a permanent basis, as we head into the cooler months it’s important to consider a few key reminders about recreational vehicles and travel trailers.” 

The CVRD said RV fires in the Comox Valley each year result in deaths, injuries and significant property damage. 

Safety tips mentioned to prevent RV fires are: 

• Installing smoke alarms 

• Staying in the kitchen while cooking and keeping combustibles away from stovetops 

• Using only one heat-producing appliance in a receptacle outlet at a time 

• Not plugging major appliances into a wall receptacle outlet 

• Turn off camping heaters and lanterns while sleeping 

• Use CSA approved appliances 

• Ensure electrical cords and appliances are rated for what they are being used for 

• Maintain proper ventilation when using heaters, stoves, or generators 

• Never run engines or fuel burning equipment in enclosed spaces 

• Keeping exit routes clear in cases of emergency 

The association further warns of the risk of carbon monoxide exposure and recommends installing a CO detector, avoiding idling near windows or sleeping areas and seeking medical care if CO poisoning is suspected. 

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About 130 residences have been asked to boil their water after unplanned repairs and water disruptions forced the First Nations authority to issue a boil‑water advisory.

According to Cowichan Tribes, the advisory applies to residents in Sahtlam, Clem Clem and Boys Road in Duncan, B.C.. Everyone in those areas is being asked to boil their water for one minute before use.

Cowichan Tribes said water testing will begin immediately, but the process could take up to two full days to complete.

Additional updates will follow as they become available.

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The Quesnel RCMP’s sixth annual Stuff a Cruiser fundraiser set a new record of total donations from the community.

This year, Stuff a Cruiser nearly doubled its cash donations and saw more than 200 additional items donated across all the other categories that the police were asking for from the Quesnel community.

The Quesnel RCMP raised $8,044 in cash and gift cards across the two-day event on December 6 and 7 in the Quesnel Walmart parking lot. They also received approximately 2,600 pounds of food, over 1,070 individual toys, and what police say is “numerous” personal hygiene and clothing donations.

“We couldn’t have done this without the overwhelming support from the community,” says Sergeant Clay Kronebusch, who also said each year the RCMP hosts Stuff a Cruiser, they have seen an increase in totals from the community. This year has been the highest Kronebusch has seen.

“The continued generosity each year is amazing. The Quesnel RCMP would like to thank Walmart for the use of their lot, Active Rent-All for providing an enclosed trailer and equipment, as well as a generous donation. All the staff and community volunteers that donated their time to help with the event, as well as everyone that assisted with donations.”

The items collected went to Big Brothers Big Sisters Quesnel, Quesnel Holiday Hampers, and to local seniors.

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The City of Cranbrook will be looking at options to create a secondary road connection to Wildstone Drive.

Council recently received applications for some developments in the Wildstone development area and the main concern from residents was the lack of a second access.

“Mayor and Council heard the concerns from the residents at Wildstone about road access loud and clear,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

“Council has directed staff to plan for and facilitate the creation of a secondary road connection to the private portion of Wildstone Drive.”

The need for a secondary access has been included in both the Official Community Plan and the Wildstone Neighbourhood Plan.

However, city staff said there have been changes in both land ownership and development plans for the remaining vacant parcels in Wildstone.

No specific timeline has been set as to when this second road access is to be dedicated or completed as it depends on future development.

There are several ways for the city to secure public road dedication for new roads.

City staff said the most common is through the subdivision approval process where the approving officer approves the layout of new development lots and roadways.

Other options include buying or negotiating for the road right-of-way, expropriating the land, or using new authority tied to building permit applications.

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Cranbrook city council is proposing a hike to utility fees to keep up with rising costs.

Council has given three readings to changes to both the waterworks and sewer rate bylaws, which would result in an extra $4.00 per month raising the total monthly utility charge from $69.50
to $73.50.

Utility bills are sent out three times a year, at the end of March, July and November.

The city offers a five per cent discount for those who prepay their utilities for the entire year prior to April 30, 2026.

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The Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 54 calls for service in the past week including a break and enter.

Officers were made aware of a break and enter at the Radium Fast Gas on Dec. 1.

Police said the culprits broke in and stole cash, cigarettes and some tools.

The RCMP has recovered some of the stolen property and the investigation is still ongoing.

On Dec. 5 police responded to an incident at the intersection of 7th Avenue and 13th Street.

Police said a youth had his foot run over while crossing the street, but wasn’t badly injured.

Police believe the youth was waiting to cross at the crosswalk, the closest vehicle stopped but the vehicle coming from the opposite direction failed to see the youth crossing and ran over their foot.

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The College of the Rockies will soon start delivering two new micro credentials.

They will be offering Solar PV Systems and Installation and Greenhouse Practices and Operational Fundamentals.

College officials said the Solar PV course will provide training in solar photovoltaic systems over six weeks.

The other course is 60 hours covering the core skills needed to work in greenhouse environments.

“Micro-credentials like these reflect the growing importance of the sustainability economy and reflect the College’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” said Innovation in Teaching and Learning dean Shaun Longstreet.

“By preparing learners for careers in renewable energy, College of the Rockies is helping meet labour market needs while supporting a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future.”

Thanks to some grant funding tuition for the first intake of these programs will only be $200 for eligible students.

The Solar PV micro-credential begins Jan. 7 while Greenhouse Practices and Operational Fundamentals runs from Jan. 28 to Feb. 20.

There are limited seats, so interested interested participants are encouraged to apply quickly.

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Shareholders in Teck and Anglo American have voted overwhelmingly in favour of merging the two companies.

A resolution at an Anglo American meeting in London today to create new shares for the consolidated company passed near unanimously, as did a motion to change the company name to Anglo Teck.

“We are delighted with the clear endorsement from our shareholders to take this next strategic step to unlock outstanding value as Anglo Teck,” Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad said in a news release.

A vote by Teck shareholders held afterward in Vancouver saw near unanimous support from Class A common shareholders and nearly 90 per cent support by Class B shareholders. Two-thirds approval was required.

“This resoundingly positive vote marks an important milestone in creating Anglo Teck — a global leader in critical minerals headquartered in Canada,” said Jonathan Price, President and CEO of Teck. “We look forward to advancing the necessary regulatory approvals and completing the merger for the benefit of our shareholders, employees, communities, and partners.”

The deal is subject to approval from the federal government. If the merger proceeds, Anglo American shareholders would then own 62.4 per cent of the combined company and Teck shareholders would own 37.6 per cent. Anglo Teck is expected to have its head office in Vancouver.

Teck has about 1,500 employees at the smelter in Trail, making it one of the largest employers in the Kootenays.

In announcing the proposed deal in September, Teck said the deal is an opportunity to “significantly increase germanium and other specialty critical minerals production” in Trail.

It said that it would make investments of up to $750 million in the Trail operation and explore opportunities to add copper processing at the local smelter.

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The Prince George RCMP is continuing to process evidence from the scene of an arson investigation that began last week.

On Thursday, Prince George Fire Rescue crews from four halls responded to a high-rise commercial structure fire at the Connaught Hill Residences on Queensway.

According to the City, crews encountered heavy smoke conditions on the 11th floor of the building, but were able to contain the fire to a single suite.

“While one man was arrested in connection with this investigation, the details are complex and police are still working to determine the exact details of what occurred that morning,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“If there is anyone who saw or heard anything that relates to this investigation and who has not yet spoken with investigators, we ask they call the Prince George RCMP non-emergency number (250-561-3300) to speak with a police officer.”

41-year-old Prince George resident Cody Allen Stovin was arrested on Friday, and was subsequently remanded into custody until his next court appearance.

The following charges were approved in this matter:

• Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized,
• Carrying a concealed weapon,
• Careless transportation of a firearm.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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On the evening of April 25, 2024, Trail’s Nylan LaFreniere had just gotten off work when he began complaining of chest pain.

His wife, Rosalyn, decided to drive him to the hospital. While en route, Nylan vomited and became unresponsive. Rosalyn pulled into the parking lot of Waneta Plaza and called 911.

She pulled her husband from the passenger seat onto the ground, and began CPR until paramedics arrived. Rosalyn’s life-saving actions took place in the dark in the middle of a severe rainstorm.

Today, Nylan joined his wife and their kids and other family members as Rosalyn received a Vital Link Award from BC Emergency Health Services.

Jordan Batchelor, a paramedic and unit chief in Castlegar, was part of the crew that responded to the call. He nominated Rosalyn and presented the award to her today at the ambulation station in Trail.

“Rosalyn gave Nylan a chance at survival because she acted quickly and courageously,” Batchelor said.

“Rosalyn’s quick thinking, unwavering strength and determination in such challenging conditions is a remarkable example of what it means to be a vital link in the chain of survival. Thanks to her, Nylan received life-saving care he needed in those critical early moments, and we are grateful to have him here with us today.

“As paramedics and dispatchers, we rarely get an opportunity to reunite with our patients, so it’s an honour indeed.”

Several others who were involved in the call were also on hand for the ceremony, including the medical dispatcher and fellow paramedics.

Rosalyn said she had taken training in child CPR, “and then it just kind of clicked in and the nice lady from [BC Emergency Health Services] walked me through it all and she was with me the whole time … I thank everybody so much. It was my worst night ever and it turned out with the best outcome.” 

Rosalyn adds the incident demonstrates the importance of CPR skills.

“I never would have thought that was going to happen. I never thought that I’d ever have to do that, especially to my husband. And I’m very thankful that I knew what to do, and I just went in and actually did it.”

Vital Link Awards honour the skilful actions of bystanders who perform CPR during a cardiac arrest emergency, often with help over the phone from emergency medical call takers. Nominations are made by BC Emergency Health Services staff and presented to recipients throughout the province.

Batchelor said over 60,000 Canadians suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year. CPR or use of an automated defibrillator can improve the chance of survival by up to 50 per cent. For every minute that passes without help, the chance of survival drops by 10 per cent.

“While it may seem intimidating to do CPR and apply [a defibrillator], it is not and is easy to learn,” Batchelor said. “Learning CPR is a selfless gift everyone can give to loved ones and strangers alike.”

Courses are available through Selkirk College.

(CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story suggested Rosalyn spoke with a 911 dispatcher. In fact, all 911 calls for ambulances are put through to BC Emergency Health Services. For calls like this ones, an emergency medical call taker stays on the line and walks callers through providing bystander CPR.)

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A new judge has been appointed to the provincial court in Nanaimo. Christina Proteau is one of two new provincial court judges whose appointment becomes effective Jan. 5. 

She has more than 15 years of legal experience, according to a news release from the province. She began her career at the law firm of Badovinac, Scoffield and Mosley in Port Alberni before joining the Port Alberni Crown office in 2010. 

Proteau was named administrative Crown counsel in 2018. She has prosecuted a broad range of criminal cases, instructed at the New Crown Conference and presented on topics including charge assessment and working with self-represented accused. 

Judges are appointed through a multi-step process in which lawyers apply, a judicial council reviews candidates and recommends a shortlist to the attorney general. Final appointments are made by order in council. 

“These appointments are made by considering various factors, such as the court’s requirements, the diversity of the judiciary and the candidates’ areas of expertise,” the provincial release said. “They support the B.C. government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring courts have the judicial resources needed to meet the demands of the justice system and serve the people of the province.” 

The second judge appointed, Michael Lefebure, will be assigned to Chilliwack. 

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A longtime summer tradition in the South Cariboo is facing a bumpy road ahead.

Since it’s start back in 2008, Hot July Nights has brought people to 100 Mile House from all over BC and beyond.

Now this year, according to their Facebook post, without more Board Members there may not be a show next year.

“We had our AGM about 2 months ago and we had a very poor showing,” Chair Marty Mahovlich said, “I appreciate the people that did show up but we had about 10 people that are willing to take on a role. We need roughly 32 and some people generally take more than one job on but our estimates we are about 15 people short.”

Mahovlich noted that the weekend of this event they never seem to have any problems getting enough volunteers to run it, but the job of doing all the work behind the scenes for the 6 months leading up to it is where they really the help.

“The people that we have are definitely getting burned out. It’s about 4 to 5 thousand hours to put this together, and like I say we have about 10 people that have been taking the bulk of the work in the past years and they’re tired.”

Mahovlich said their estimates are between three quarters and a million dollars a year that Hot July Nights brings in in new money to the town. Last year we estimate we had about 12-thousand spectators show up so there’s definitely value added and we really believe it helps the business community.

“And that’s what we are trying to do. It’s not about a car show for us, we can use the cars as a tool to bring people in from out of town to spend their money and help the local economy. That is our goal.”

Mahovlich said they will be holding an open meeting this Thursday (December 11) starting at 6 pm at the 100 Mile House Chamber of Commerce on Birch Avenue.

“If we get enough help nobody really has to do a lot and everybody can enjoy it and that is our aim.” Mahovlich said, “What we are asking is these people helping out to basically give 30 to fifty hours over the next 6 months, when you look at it on a monthly basis isn’t a lot. We have this event down pat and feel we have a model that works.”

He noted that they are looking for 15 additional people who want to put some time in and help out and do some of the work behind the scenes, it’s that simple.

“If we can get 15 from the people we currently have I think we can make it work, it would be great if we could 20 but 15 would definitely give us a number that we could work with. Nobody’s just going to throw them into a position and say here ya go. Obviously the success of Hot July Nights depends on everyone working together. It’s all organized, it’s just a matter of somebody doing the work.”

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RCMP are asking for help locating a woman who has been missing from Ladysmith since the evening of Dec. 7. 

Jennifer Switzer was reported missing on Dec. 8. She is described as Caucasian, 43 years old, 5 ft. 3 ins, with brown hair and brown eyes. 

Police said they are concerned for her health and well-being. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact them or Crime Stoppers. 

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LADYSMITH, BC – Ladysmith residents will see a change in their curbside service next year, as the Town has officially named GFL Environmental as the new provider for residential waste collection.

The new five-year contract, which was approved by Council and goes into effect on January 1, 2026, covers the collection of household garbage, recycling, and organic materials.

Town officials have advised that for the immediate future, there will be minimal disruption to service. Collection routes will remain the same, and residents can continue to place their existing bins at the curb for pickup. The list of acceptable materials for all waste streams will also not be changing.

However, the decision comes as part of a larger plan to transition the community to an automated collection system. Ladysmith Council recently directed staff to move forward with a plan to eventually supply all households with new, standardized 125-litre wheeled carts for garbage, recycling, and organics. This change is anticipated to be rolled out over the contract term, with the goal of increasing efficiency and lowering long-term costs.

The Town is working with GFL to finalize and communicate the 2026 collection schedule to residents in the coming weeks. For specific details on the collection process and acceptable items, residents are encouraged to visit the Town of Ladysmith’s official website.

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Prince George residents will see a few routes out of service at the end of the month.

BC Transit and the City of Prince George announced the reduction in service would begin December 21st, until January 4th.

The routes that will be out of service include:

• Route 12 Parkridge
• Route 96 Shas Ti Kelly Rd via N. Nechako
• Route 97 Shas Ti Kelly Rd via John Hart Hwy

It added service will be reduced on Route 15 UNBC/Downtown and Route 55 5^th/Victoria during that time period, denoted by the ‘U’ or ‘N’ trip note.

BC Transit encourages riders to use the Umo app, Google Transit or any other real time trip planning app to see trip times.

More information can be found on BC Transit’s website here.

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The Creston RCMP Charity Foundation raised more than $2,000 and collected over 500 pounds of food at its annual Cram the Cruiser event on Nov. 29.

Held at Pealow’s Independent Grocer, the event supports the Creston food bank and local elementary school breakfast programs. This year’s campaign saw a strong turnout and community spirit, according to organizers.

“This yearly event is one of the highlights of my year,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Buliziuk, detachment commander. “We get to see the whole community come together and support each other in providing for children and their families.”

The fundraising total, along with hundreds of pounds of donated food, will go directly toward supporting families in need this winter.

Buliziuk thanked residents for their generosity and said the RCMP is looking forward to continuing the tradition in the years to come.

“We can’t thank the public enough for the continued support of our fundraising initiatives,” he said.

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Results from a deer sample harvested in the Okanagan have come back negative for chronic wasting disease (CWD).

In November, an initial screening test on a male white-tailed deer harvested east of Enderby showed a “non-negative” finding, meaning officials could not rule out CWD without further testing.

The sample was sent to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for confirmatory testing. The agency used three methods, which the B.C. government announced Tuesday all came back negative for CWD.

“While this result is negative, CWD remains a serious concern in B.C. and does not change the confirmed presence of CWD within the provincial CWD management zone in the Kootenay region,” said the province in a statement.

Officials said hunters remain essential partners in the province’s surveillance efforts.

People are asked to continue submitting samples from any deer, elk or moose harvested throughout B.C. to help determine where the disease is present and to detect new cases early.

The province said it will continue implementing actions outlined in B.C.’s Surveillance and Response Plan for CWD, including ongoing surveillance, targeted sampling in higher-risk areas, and collaboration with First Nations, local governments, hunters and partner organizations.

There is no direct evidence that CWD can be transmitted to humans, and there have been no reported cases in people.

However, to prevent any potential risk of transmission or illness, Health Canada and the World Health Organization recommend that people not eat meat or other parts of an animal infected with CWD.

To date, there have been six confirmed cases of CWD in B.C., all within the Kootenay region.

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Nanaimo RCMP say they found the body of a 65-year-old woman the same day she was reported missing in November. 

Officers said Sherry Shelley was reported missing on Nov. 14 and her body was discovered early that morning inside a burning vehicle in a wooded area on College Drive near the Highway 19 intersection. 

The Nanaimo Serious Crime Unit is investigating her death as a homicide. Police are asking anyone with information to call Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and reference file 2025-36216. 

Authorities are seeking dash-cam or home security footage showing a white Volkswagen Tiguan (licence plate WN701L). They urge residents along potential driving routes from where she was last seen to where she was found — between 11 p.m. on Nov. 13 and 3 a.m. on Nov. 14 — to review any recorded footage. 

The possible routes include: from the Doumont area to College Drive via the Nanaimo Parkway; from the Doumont area to College Drive via Jinglepot Road; and from Harewood Road in Lantzville along Old Logging Road to Vipond Road. 

BACKGROUND: Nanaimo RCMP search for missing 65-year-old

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The BC Highway Patrol says a professional truck driver temporarily lost his license and his vehicle after being pulled over in Fruitvale this month.

Police say they stopped a tractor-trailer with two loaded flat-deck trailers on Dec. 4 on Highway 3B after radar recorded the truck doing 75 km/h in a 60 zone.

When the truck stopped, police discovered the driver had lit a candle in the cab.

“It’s possible that the driver is very fond of Christmas candles. It’s also possible that he was trying to mask the odour of liquor,” says Cpl. Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol. “In this case, the officer gave the driver a mandatory alcohol screening breath demand, so there was no need to form suspicion that the driver had been drinking.”

The 52-year-old Abbotsford man driver blew a “warn” which showed he was above the legal limit. That resulted in a three-day immediate roadside ban and a three-day impound of the vehicle, owned by a trucking company in Agassiz. On top of that, the driver received a $138 speeding ticket at $320 ticket for having open liquor in a vehicle.

Mandatory alcohol screening is a federal law passed in 2018 that allows police to check any driver for alcohol consumption.

McLaughlin said it’s one of the tools police use during their annual winter impaired driving campaign.

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The Prince George RCMP are requesting the public’s help in locating a missing person who has not been seen in Prince George since October 28th.

On Saturday (December 6th), police received a report of a missing person, regarding 42-year-old Inga Deza Johnson.

She is described as:

• Caucasian female
• 170 cm (5’7”)
• 80 kg (176 lbs)
• Long blonde hair, that may be dyed red

All efforts to locate Inga to ensure her well-being have been unsuccessful so far.

She is known to frequent the Hixon and Princeton, areas.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the local detachment at 250-561-3300.

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A pair of potential measles exposures in PG have been reported by Northern Health.

According to a Facebook post, the exposure locations are the Prince George Urgent and Primary Care Centre on Parkwood Place and UNBC.

The health care facility is reporting possible exposures may have taken place on November 18th from 2:30 to 5:45pm and again on December 2nd from 11am to 1:30pm.

UNBC’s potential exposure was also reported on December 2nd from 10:30am to 12:45pm

Anyone who may have been exposed is asked to check for symptoms.

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A house fire along the 6000 block of Simon Fraser Avenue resulted in $120,000 worth of damage.

According to the City of Prince George, fire crews responded to the call just after 4pm yesterday (Monday).

Once on scene, firefighters found heavy smoke and flames located on the main floor of the residence and was later extinguished.

The blaze was contained to the property of origin.

The cause is under investigation, and nobody was home at the time of the incident.

There were no injuries to the public or firefighters.

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A very special way to start the day will be happening bright and early tomorrow (December 10) in Williams Lake.

For the 20^th year the Child Development Centre (CDC) invites the community to be a part of their annual Christmas Wish Breakfast at Boston Pizza.

“This is where we ask people to bring a new, unwrapped toy or a monetary donation and enjoy a delicious breakfast,” CDC Executive Director Vanessa Riplinger said, “and that’s from 6:30 am to

9 am. We ask you to call the Child Development Centre to reserve a table because we reserve in half hour blocks.”

Riplinger said they accept unwrapped toys from babies all the way up to 19 years of age.

“Once we have collected all those toys we bring them back to the Child Development Centre. Then we have Organizations and communities come and pick out a toy for a child or youth that may not get one at Christmas. We have probably given out in the past 20 years sixty to seventy thousand toys, it’s an amazing community event.”

When the breakfast is over, Riplinger said they have Police and the Fire Department bring all the gifts down to the Child Development Centre gym where we put them on tables according to age groups.

“With the monetary donations we can fill in the gaps of the age groups that might be a little lean on the tables. When the organizations and non-profits come in to shop we then will fill up where we see the tables get emptied really quickly. Some times it’s youth, some times it’s newborns, some times it’s that 3 to 5 age group, we never know where the need is going to be greater that’s where the monetary donations are really helpful.”

Riplinger noted their staff will run out and shop locally for that particular age group and bring them back in so we can keep the tables full.

“Chris and Matt from Boston Pizza are hoping that they a thousand people coming in for breakfast which is incredible. And Boston Pizza head office I think is coming down to the event this year to see what it’s all about. Boston Pizza doesn’t do breakfast so we’re really excited to see them come and have a visit.”

Riplinger thanked the community saying that they couldn’t do any of these events, the Yuletide Dinner, and Christmas Wish Breakfast, without the community support.

“Williams Lake has always stepped up. What a beautiful community this is, not just at Christmas time, always. And they’ve always come to the table whenever the Child Development Centre has asked, they just give back over and over again,” Riplinger said.

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Lack of snow has pushed Red Mountain Resort’s opening day back a few days.

Originally the Rossland ski hill was expecting to open this Saturday, but it is now targeting Thursday, Dec. 18 instead.

“We’re still looking for another big storm (or two) before we can open the mountain the way it deserves to be opened,” Red wrote on its website.

However, they added, the forecast looks promising. Four centimeters are projected today and another three centimeters tomorrow. Once the snow arrives, the operations team will need some time for track packing, grooming, and boundary setup.

Monday’s snow report showed no new snow overnight, but seven centimeters in the last 24 hours, and 30 centimeters in the last week. The current alpine depth is 69 centimeters.

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Sports by Hartley Tuesday, December 9th, 2025  as of 12:05 a.m.

WHL:

Josh Ravensbergen and Carson Carels of the Prince George Cougars are among 27 players invited to Team Canada’s World Junior Selection Camp, set for December 12–22 in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

The 19-year-old Ravensbergen is one of three goalies while the 17-year-old Carels is one of nine defensemen named to the camp in addition to 15 forwards.

The camp prepares Canada’s National Junior Team for the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship which runs Dec. 26 to Jan 5. in Minnesota.

RAV & CARSON ARE HEADED TO NIAGARA FALLS

Josh Ravensbergen and Carson Carels have been invited to @HockeyCanada World Junior Selection Camp in Niagara Falls, ON! pic.twitter.com/XMQVSswpVb

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 8, 2025

The road to Minnesota begins now.

NHL first round picks and top 2026 #NHLDraft prospects highlight WHL contributions to @HockeyCanada’s National Junior Team training camp roster!

| https://t.co/hg4rFAbZ69 pic.twitter.com/nk4k26dQqZ

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) December 8, 2025

The (20-8) PG Cougars host the (14-11-2-2) Kamloops Blazers on Spirit Weekend Friday night at 7:00 and Saturday night at 6:00.

Prince George leads the BC Division by 8 points over Kamloops.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

BCHL: 

The Prince George Spruce Kings, riding a 4-game winning streak, visit the (15-6-1) Coquitlam Express Friday night at 7:00 and the (14-12) Langley Rivermen Saturday night at 7:15.

The (14-9-1) Spruce Kings sit in second place in the Coastal East Division just two points behind Coquitlam and one ahead of Langley.

The next home games for PG will be on Dec 19th and 20th against the Cowichan Valley Capitals at the Kopar Memorial Arena.

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A chance of a lifetime awaits a pair of Prince George Cougars.

This morning (Monday), goaltender Josh Ravensbergen and defenceman Carson Carels were been invited to Team Canada’s World Junior Selection Camp, set for December 12–22 in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Canada will also play pre-tournament games against Sweden on Dec. 17 (Kitchener) and Dec. 20 (London), before taking on Denmark on Dec. 23 in Mankato, Minnesota.

For Ravensbergen, the invitation comes during a tremendous first half of the 2025–26 season.

The 2025 first-round pick of the San Jose Sharks owns a 16-6-0-0 record, a 2.50 GAA, and a .921 save percentage, while leading the WHL in wins and carrying an eight-game winning streak.

The North Vancouver product has previously attended the World Junior Summer Showcase in each of the last two years.

“It is super special to get that call,” Ravensbergen said. “I’m really excited to go, put my best foot forward, and I can’t wait.”

For Carels, the selection caps off what has been an incredible sophomore campaign. The A-rated prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft has produced 29 points (8–21–29) in 28 games.

In late November, he represented Team CHL at the CHL/USA Top Prospects Challenge, where he tallied two assists and drew significant attention from NHL scouts.

The Cypress River, MB product is no stranger to the national stage, having won gold with Canada at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship.

Carels is also one of only two underage skaters invited to camp (along with Keaton Verhoeff, University of North Dakota).

“It’s so special,” said Carels. “Not many underage guys get this opportunity, even just to participate in the prelim games, so I’m really excited. I’m honestly living a dream right now.”

The initial roster consists of — three goaltenders, nine defencemen and 15 forwards.

The 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, taking place December 26–January 5 in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.

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Premier David Eby said his government will consider amending British Columbia’s Indigenous rights legislation, known as the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA).

It comes after the B.C. Court of Appeal said in a ruling Friday that the province’s mineral tenure system is not compatible with the legislation, and said that courts can decide whether a law is inconsistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The province adopted the Declaration Ace in 2019, establishing UNDRIP as a framework for reconciliation.

The Gitxaała and Ehattesaht nations launched a partial appeal of a 2023 B.C. Supreme Court decision related to the province’s “free entry” mineral tenure system. The Gitxaała Nation said Friday the decision affirms that First Nations can take the province to court if it fails to meet its obligations under DRIPA.

Speaking at the First Nations Clean Energy Summit in Vancouver on Monday, Eby said DRIPA needs to be amended, but he rejected the idea of repealing it entirely.

Eby said it will take some time to review the court’s decision and consult with First Nations and other stakeholders on amendments to DRIPA.

He said the province may decide to take the ruling to the Supreme Court of Canada for a decision.

The B.C. Conservatives have long called for DRIPA to be repealed, and say the legislature should be recalled in order to do so this week.

The fall session of the legislature wrapped up on Dec. 3. The spring session begins in February.

Conservative House Leader Áʼa꞉líya Warbus said Monday that just amending DRIPA won’t be enough to provide certainty to British Columbians concerned about how their private property rights are affected by First Nations title cases.

She said Section 35 of Canada’s Constitution Act already recognizes and affirms Indigenous rights.

Warbus said using UNDRIP as a “guiding document” would allow for more flexibility to address the needs of Indigenous communities. “[DRIPA] really put the cart before the horse in terms of dealing with the many distinct Nations that we have in British Columbia,” she said.

Gitxaała Chief Councillor Linda Innes called Friday’s ruling an “exciting victory.”

A lower court had previously found B.C.’s online system allowing automatic registration of mineral claims without First Nations’ consultation violated the Constitution.

The nations had also argued that the system violated DRIPA, but the lower court ruling found DRIPA was not legally enforceable by a court.

B.C. Court of Appeal Justices Gail Dickson and Nitya Iyer overturned that finding, saying “the judge erred in adopting an unduly narrow approach to the legal effect of the Declaration Act and UNDRIP.”

Justice W. Paul Riley wrote a dissenting opinion, saying DRIPA’s implementation should happen through government–Indigenous collaboration, not litigation.

When DRIPA was tabled in 2019, B.C.’s then-minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Scott Fraser said the act would be an interpretive tool and would have no legal force.

“When we set up the Declaration of the Rights of the Indigenous People Act, we were very clear that this wasn’t the territory of the courts.” said Eby Monday. “We need to make amendments to make the original intent clear, and we will do that.”

Veronica Martisius is staff litigation counsel at the B.C. Civil Liberties Association, which was an intervener in the appeals court case. She says the ruling opens the door for First Nations to take the province to court when laws are not consistent with UNDRIP.

“We think that the Court of Appeal was correct in its decision around justiciability because it’s an important accountability mechanism that First Nations and Indigenous peoples in B.C. can look to to hold the government accountable to its promise [under DRIPA],” said Martisius.

She said she doesn’t believe amending DRIPA would provide further clarity, “unless it is truly their intention to dictate how reconciliation happens on their terms,” she said.

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A white Christmas in the Kootenays is unlikely this year, according to Environment Canada, which forecasts a mild Pacific system that could dominate the region’s holiday weather.

Meteorologist Colin Fong explained that a series of storms is expected to move across southern B.C. in the coming weeks, bringing frequent precipitation but also warm temperatures.

“We’re going to see a train of storms come, one after the other, after the other and really in the end, what this all really means is we’re going to see continued rain or snow,” said Fong.

“Along with it, though, is that these systems will bring in fairly mild air. And as a result, we are not looking at any deep freeze, at least for the near term. We will continue to expect warmer temperatures and even above‑normal temperatures for the Kootenay region.”

While Arctic air is hitting central and northwestern Canada right now, Fong said it probably won’t reach the Kootenays this month.

“It looks as though that cold air will stay not only over northern B.C., but into the prairies as well. But for southern B.C. and the Kootenay region, those storms coming in off the Pacific, it looks like the warm air will win out, at least for the next couple of weeks anyways,” explained Fong.

He said that same air mass has settled over northern B.C., but the earliest chance of it reaching the Kootenay region appears to be January.

“That cold air is trying to make its way down into southern B.C. Doesn’t look like it’s going to be coming in for the month of December. From what I’m looking at, it may even be January at the earliest for any possibility that that cold air will come into the Kootenays.”

As for the lack of snow locally, Fong said overnight temperatures are the main reason.

“The overnight lows haven’t really been dipping below zero very often. Usually this time of year, we would expect nighttime lows to be about minus three. And we just haven’t really seen a prolonged period of below‑freezing nighttime lows.”

With these warm temperatures hovering above freezing, Fong said most precipitation is falling as rain or mixed rain and snow, so any snow that does reach the ground tends not to stick.

Higher elevations, including ski areas and mountain passes, have seen snow, but again, warm temperatures have caused melting and even rainfall on top of existing snowpacks.

“The ingredients just aren’t there for a good shot of snow, at least down at the surface. I wish I had better news in terms of snow for those who are looking for it as we get into the holiday season, but the ingredients just aren’t in place for that right now.”

As of Dec. 1, the provincial snowpack sits at 79 per cent of normal, which is well below last year’s 114 per cent.

The West Kootenay region measures at 72 per cent, the East Kootenay at 78 per cent and the Boundary at 121 per cent.

Typically by Dec. 1 about one‑quarter of the season’s snowpack has accumulated, but snow levels vary widely across the province.

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The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for much of the south coast, including Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.

The advisory was issued Monday afternoon as widespread rain moved across coastal regions. Forecasters expect the heaviest rainfall south of the border in Washington and Oregon through Wednesday, with some areas of B.C. also likely to see increased precipitation.

Officials said rivers in the advisory areas will rise and remain elevated through the week. They urged people to stay clear of fast-moving waterways and avoid driving across flooded roads or crossings.

“Current modelling is indicating the potential for flows that may reach or exceed the two-year return period in some areas,” said the B.C. River Forecast Centre.

A high streamflow advisory means river levels are expected to rise quickly, but major flooding is not expected. Minor flooding could occur in low-lying areas.

Click here for more information from the B.C. River Forecast Centre.

– Article includes file and image from B.C. River Forecast Centre

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Back on the winning track.

After a few close losses, the U17 AAA Cariboo Cougars put forth a pair of solid efforts over the weekend, culminating in two victories against the Greater Vancouver Canadians in Kin 1.

Sawyer Latkowski’s game-winning goal in overtime propelled Cariboo to a thrilling 3-2 win over GVC Saturday night.

The Canadians opened the scoring in the first period as Zacary Prokop found the back of the net on Cougars goaltender Caleb Sandberg.

Tavon Peterson evened the score for Cariboo in the middle period. Both teams traded power-play goals in the third as Robert Flic (GVC) and Brody Bustard (Cariboo) scored for their respective sides.

The story of the game was the performance of Canadians goaltender Josh Read who made 37 saves in the loss and was named first star.

On Sunday, Cariboo dominated from start to finish coasting to a 6-1 triumph to complete the weekend sweep.

Andrew Ludwig and Brett De Gans found the back of the net to give the U17 Cougars a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes.

In the second, Cariboo extended the advantage to 4-0 as Morgan Reed blasted a loose puck past GVC netminder Wilfred Hogan.

Nigel Nitschke lit the lamp after sticking a loose puck past the goaltender on a broken play.

Greater Vancouver finally got on the board late in the frame as Maxwell Clemens deflected a point-shot from Brian Woolfenden on the power—play.

Nitschke added his second of the game while Cooper Kursteiner tallied a single in the third to salt the game away for the 14-6-0-1 Cougars.

Cariboo remains two points back of the Thompson Blazers for top spot in the nine-team BC Elite Hockey League with three games in hand.

The U17 AAA Cougars continue a six-game homestand Saturday (6:30pm) and Sunday 9am from Kin 1 against the Valley West Giants (8-8-1-2).

GVC drops to 8-13-3-0 on the campaign.

In U18 AAA action, the Cariboo Cougars took three out of a possible four points on the road.

A 6-1 win on Saturday was followed up a by 4-3 overtime defeat on Sunday at the hands of the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds.

Cariboo scored five unanswered goals in the last two periods on Saturday to secure the convincing victory.

Colton Campbell notched the game-winner at 10:40 of the second period courtesy of a Ty Maloney pass.

Maloney, Miller Tedesco, Jaxon Larmand and Nicholas Gordon padded the Cariboo lead in the third.

Both teams were tied 1-1 after the opening 20 minutes with Larmand and Riley Green (T-Birds) trading singles.

On Sunday, the U18 AAA Cougars stormed out to a 3-0 lead only to see evaporate into thin air.

Campbell, Blake Lambe and Carter Krueger paced Cariboo to the strong start lighting the lamp once each.

Wyatt Van Tongeren trimmed the deficit to 3-1 giving the host Thunderbirds a sliver of hope.

Zachary Herfst and Lukas Cho evened the score seven minutes apart in the third to even the score at 3-3.

Tristan Anderlini was the hero for the T-Birds notching the game-winning goal in overtime with the assist going to Dane Nickel.

Cariboo is 9-6-2 on the season, third place in the seven-team league while Fraser Valley sits with a mark of 5-10-2-1.

The U18 AAA Cougars are back on the road this weekend against the Vancouver North West Hawks Saturday at 6pm and Sunday at 11am from the Canlan Arena.

The U15 AAA Cariboo Cougars (9-7-0-0) were off on a bye this weekend and are back in action against the Vancouver Northwest Hawks (3-9-0-2) Saturday (3:45pm) and Sunday (11:45 AM) from Kin 1.

Lastly, the Northern Capitals (8-9-0-1) U18 Female AAA club were also off over the weekend.

They will play their last two games prior to the Christmas break this weekend against the Greater Vancouver Comets (11-4-0-0).

Puck drop is at 8:15pm on Saturday and 10:45am on Sunday. Games will be played at Planet Ice in Coquitlam and the Scotia Barn in Burnaby.

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Grand Forks Fire Rescue says slippery conditions were to blame for Friday’s pileup of about 20 vehicles on Highway 3 near Wilgress Lake.

The road was closed for over four hours. However, no one was seriously hurt. Deputy chief Morgan Strohmann said in an email that fire crews assessed several people and treated one patient for minor injuries.

But the BC Ambulance Service said while it was called at 5:35 p.m. to the 11100 block of Highway 3, paramedics were not required at the scene.

Strohmann said most of the vehicles involved did not need to be towed.

A few hours later, fire crews were dispatched to a second incident in the same general area, involving two vehicles that had become stuck. One person was taken to hospital by ambulance.

Strohmann said the incident highlights the importance of adjusting to winter driving conditions, yielding to emergency vehicles, and not passing an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing.

“Drivers must also obey all traffic control signs and follow the direction of responders when approaching an active incident,” he said. “These steps help keep both the public and first responders safe.”

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With the Fernie ski hill open, the FernieStoke ski shuttle is now running through the winter.

The shuttle’s daytime service runs until April 12, while the evening service starts on Dec. 19 and goes until April 5.

The full winter schedule can be found here.

Tickets are $5 each way per person, but kids under six can ride for free with a paying adult.

Tickets must be purchased using the FernieStoke shuttle app.

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Sparwood council has approved Category 2 funding for both the Sparwood Food Bank and the Sunset Ridge Ski Society.

The ski society was looking for in-kind funding to cover the cost of milling and delivery to put in a new culvert at a turnaround point on the old highway to make grooming and turning easier. The work will cost the district $387.

The society said the work would help them host local community and charitable events.

The Sparwood Food Bank requested $846 for table rentals and staff and equipment time for event site setup for the 2025 CPKC Holiday Train.

The train will be coming to Sparwood on Sunday, Dec. 14.

With these approvals, the district now has $11,820 remaining in its Category 2 Community Funding and Support budget.

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Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis said there was little good news coming out of British Columbia’s legislature this fall.

McInnis said positive developments in the provincial government were “few and far between.”

“There wasn’t a lot of good news that took place, whether we’re looking at some of the Indigenous relations issues that are now at the forefront of the news, healthcare continues to decline and we’re seeing mill closures all over the province,” he said.

“Speaking from a landscape of B.C., it wasn’t super positive.”

However, he said there were some positives that took place, including the passing of Bill C-225.

“There was pretty much unanimous support for a government bill around intimate partner violence,” he added.

But he said there were other opportunities for the government to work with the BC Conservatives that didn’t happen.

“We brought forward some very sensible legislation around drug use prevention in schools and a healthcare amendment act that would make wait list transparency more in the public eye and the government wasn’t really able to work with us on some of our ideas which is a little bit disappointing, but that’s how it goes in opposition,” he said.

“You bring forward ideas and it’s ultimately in the government’s hands whether they want to take that forward.”

McInnis has now wrapped up his first year as an MLA after getting elected for the first time in the 2024 provincial election.

He said it’s been a rewarding experience so far.

“I absolutely love the role and it’s a tremendous honour. Ninety per cent of the role is very exciting, rewarding and a continuous learning journey. There is 10 per cent of it I have to be honest is at times almost overwhelmingly stressful and busy,” he said.

“I’ve been very proud of some of the work locally we’ve been able to do for individuals in the riding. Unfortunately we haven’t been able to get everything across the finish line, but what I can say is I’ll continue to push for what matters in rural B.C. and Columbia River-Revelstoke.”

The BC Conservative Party is currently focusing on selecting a new leader following the resignation of John Rustad.

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Campbell River council has finalized its 2026–2035 financial plan, approving a 2.7-per-cent tax increase for next year.

The increase works out to about five dollars a month, or 60 dollars a year, for the average family home. Utility fees will rise about 65 dollars annually.

City officials said the budget maintains essential services and invests in community safety and infrastructure, while absorbing inflation, contractual obligations and downloaded costs from other governments. Wage and benefit increases accounted for 2.51 per cent of the pressure, while the RCMP agreement added 1.81 per cent.

More than $83 million in capital projects is planned, including renewal work on Erickson Road, upgrades to the John Hart Reservoir and enhancements to Nunns Creek Park.

Another $7.95 million in operating projects is funded, including expanded bylaw enforcement, the downtown cleanliness program, CR Live Streets, temporary overnight sheltering and community grants.

Mayor Kermit Dahl said he is proud council kept the tax increase lower than in many B.C. municipalities, while still advancing major projects.

“Acknowledging the tough economic times that we find ourselves in, I am incredibly proud of all involved in this year’s budget and 2.7 per cent tax increase,” he said.

The city’s director of financial services, Alaina Maher, said the plan balances immediate affordability with long-term stability.

“Achieving this budget amid current challenges and contractually committed increases is a testament to council, staff and the community,” she said.

The financial plan has been approved in principle and still requires three readings before adoption.

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The town of Creston is moving forward with plans to extend its FireSmart program, with council voting in favour of applying for $400,000 in provincial funding to continue the work for another two years.

The funds would come from B.C.’s Community Resiliency and Investment program, administered through the Union of B.C. Municipalities.

The program was rolled out locally in 2024. Town staff told council on Tuesday, Dec. 2, it’s been steadily expanding.

In 2025, the program saw 43 homes and two essential care homes assessed. Fuel management prescriptions were also developed, and 12 rebates equalling $36,170 were delivered.

The town spent about $199,200 on FireSmart activities between August 2024 and October 2025.

Councillors spoke in favour of securing a two-year funding commitment, emphasizing how the program is effective and increasingly important.

“As the climate is starting to change more and we’re getting drier summers, it’s important to keep up with that,” said Councillor Megan Holland.

“I personally would prefer to go for a two-year program. It just allows us to really make it more how we’d want to see it in the future.”

Councillor Keith Baldwin agreed with Holland’s comments on the importance of the program, though he questioned whether it could become more proactive.

“It always seemed odd that you kind of had to wait for an individual property owner to go, I want to have my property assessed, rather than being a little bit more proactive,” he said.

“Because there could be a house or a property with just wall-to-wall incendiary devices, basically. But unless they ask for involvement, the FireSmart program is kind of kind of lame.”

Baldwin pressed staff on whether the town could take a more assertive approach, noting the voluntary nature of the program can limit its impact.

He asked whether there’s a way the program could identify high-risk properties that haven’t opted in.

“Is there any chance of putting more teeth into the program? You could be living next door to a property that is a risk, but you as the owner have no influence in pointing out that risk. So, have we done an inventory of areas that are potentially threats?”

CAO Michael Moore said the town can’t force homeowners to participate, nor can it enter private property to enforce FireSmart standards.

Instead, he said the program relies on public outreach and education to encourage participation.

“FireSmart’s very voluntary and there is no way that you, through any form of legislation, would you be able to enter somebody’s property and ask them to do anything,” said Moore.

“If there is what we would consider community risk of significance, certainly there is some tools that are provided to us under the Community Charter.”

Councillors also raised questions on the rebate program, asking if there are other funding opportunities that could increase the amount homeowners are eligible for.

“That might address situations where some properties may be like, this is, yeah, great. I want my property safe but I can’t afford to change the type of shed that I have or the location where it is or those types of things,” said Councillor Carolyn Hawton.

“Short answer, no. Not for residential,” answered Moore, adding that municipalities can adjust local rebate structures if demand grows.

Councillors voted in favour of applying for the two-year funding stream. If approved, the $400,000 would be split evenly between 2026 and 2027.

Each year the funds would pay for a FireSmart co-ordinator, emergency management support, public education initiatives and materials, community events, staff training, operational costs and $50,000 in homeowner rebates.

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The annual Cram-A-Cruiser fundraiser in support of the Salvation Army was a success.

According to the Prince George RCMP, over 3500 pounds of food and $600 in cash and gift card donations were tallied.

Stationed outside two Save-On-Foods locations in Prince George, officers and other volunteers greeted shoppers on their way in, asking for donations of food and toiletries in support of the local food bank.

“The residents of Prince George did not disappoint us this year: we received more than 3500lbs of food and over $600 in cash and gift card donations for the Salvation Army Food Bank. We exceeded all expectations and we have the generosity of those who participated to thank for such an amazing result. The Salvation Army is a valuable partner, as they work closely with our RCMP Victim Services unit, helping families during times of crisis. This was an opportunity for us to give back to their organization,” stated Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

Plans are already being made for 2026.

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The City of Williams Lake is hosting a Budget Consultation Session.

It will take place tomorrow (December 9) from 3 to 6 pm in the City Hall Lobby.

Chief Financial Officer Vitali Kozubenko, said it’s an opportunity to consult with the community about the Financial Plan which was proposed to City Council.

Residents are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives, ideas and feedback on the City’s developing 2026 budget on how municipal tax dollars are allocated.

“This is done every year,” Kozubenko said, “when we are preparing and proposing the preliminary budget. It’s an informal session where City tax payers can meet City Management and Council to discuss their concerns about City finances and about the Capital Plan we are proposing.”

The City said Budget information will be available for viewing in the City Hall lobby throughout the week of December 8.

“Information will be available on the preliminary budget on the City of Williams Lake website. It will also be available in visual and paper form during tomorrow’s session. The City is building the biggest project in it’s history and there will be potentially a lot of money flowing into it and the community needs to know and the community needs to tell us what they think about it.”

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Nanaimo RCMP say they saw very few impaired drivers this weekend while conducting check-stops. 

Police spoke to about 500 people during the impaired-driving enforcement campaign and said two drivers failed a breathalyzer test. A news release from the RCMP said two additional immediate roadside prohibitions were issued, for a total of four. 

Officers also issued various tickets for minor infractions. 

“Our officers were pleasantly surprised to see so many sober drivers. Their only hope is that the trend will continue throughout the holiday season,” Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien said. 

The enforcement initiative began Saturday evening, Dec. 6, and continued into Sunday morning. 

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The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has finished an investigation into a crash that left a man injured in Telkwa.

At 9:45 the morning of October 26th, police received a report of an erratic driver travelling west on Highway 16 near Hungry Hill which was sent to all officers in the area.

According to the IIO, members of the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) driving in the area observed a matching vehicle to the description and attempted to do a traffic stop.

The agency added the vehicle stopped near Walcott Road and drove away when officers approached before following the vehicle, providing updates as it went towards Telkwa.

Just after 10am, a 9-1-1 call reported a truck had went down an embankment near the village with COS officers administering first aid to the male driver before police and paramedics arrived.

The IIO said the driver was safely removed from the vehicle without serious injuries and taken to the hospital.

The chief civilian director has reviewed the evidence collected by IIO investigators, including medical records, statements from the affected person and witnesses, GPS data from the conservation officers, and police reports, and determined the man’s injuries resulting from the collision do not meet the threshold for serious harm, as defined by the Police Act.

The director added no connection was made between the collision and conservation officers’ actions.

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Shawnigan Lake RCMP say a woman struck by a vehicle has sustained serious injuries and they are asking for the public’s help to determine what happened. 

The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on Nov. 21 in the 4100-block of the Trans-Canada Highway, police said, after they received a report of a female being hit by a vehicle. 

RCMP said the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police. 

Anyone with information or dash-cam footage is asked to contact the detachment’s non-emergency line at 250-743-5514. 

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Smithers is under a Toxic Drug Alert issued by Northern Health.

This is for a dark blue drug being sold as “down” and reported to be stronger than expected.

According to the health authority, the drug has highly sedative effects and lasts for extended periods of time when smoked or injected.

Safety tips Northern Health recommends when using substances include:

• Get training to prevent, recognize, and respond to an overdose; carry naloxone.
• Don’t use alone, make a plan and use with a trusted person who can call for help if needed.
• If you plan to use alone, use the Lifeguard app available free on the app store or on Toward the Heart website or call NORS (National Overdose Response Service) 1-888-688-6677 (NORS).
• Know your tolerance. If you are sick or had a time of abstinence or reduced use, use much less.
• Don’t mix drugs or mix drugs with alcohol.
• Test a small amount first and go slow.
• Use in an OPS if possible.
• Access fentanyl drug checking where available (OPS sites).
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away if someone overdoses.

The Smithers Overdose Prevention Site is located at the Specialized MHSU Outreach on Broadway Avenue.

The alert is set to expire on December 22nd.

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A little over a week after their big win on home soil, the Duchess Park Condors Senior Boys Volleyball team raised their Provincial Championship banner this morning. (Monday)

A ceremony was held with the full school in attendance, featuring speeches from Mayor Simon Yu, Duchess Park Secondary Principal Sid Jawanda, and players and coaches.

“It’s been a whirlwind of a week,” said Head Coach Griffin Olexyn following the banner raising ceremony.

“It’s still hard to believe that we did it, we put a banner on the wall, we filled the missing spot, I can’t believe.”

Olexyn said it was an amazing feeling to see the banner go up.

“It’s really good to see it for the boys, very rewarding for them after seeing all the work they’ve put in this past year, past season, past three years going back to when I started coaching them,” he said.

“The amount of hard work they’ve put in, it’s definitely paid off, definitely well deserved.”

For grade 12 student Sam Kramer, putting the banner up was something that’s been on his mind since he was in grade eight.

“Starting in grade eight, I saw our boys do it, and I saw it up there every day at practice and at games, and I wanted to achieve the same thing,” he said.

“Now that it’s been achieved, it’s like I had a hole there and now it’s filled by that, it’s great.”

Grade 12 student Owen Ryan Martin said the win was great for the school as well.

“To know that they have our back, and are supporting us, that’s half the reason why we got through it,” he said.

“Without their support I don’t know if we’d be here right now.”

The Condors won the provincial final 3-2 over the Richmond Christian Eagles in front of a raucous crowd at the College of New Caledonia on November 29th.

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A medical rescue took place in Cumberland this past weekend. 

Comox Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) responded Saturday to assist BCEHS on a call at the Blockhead Trail, after a mountain biker suffered a serious injury following a fall. 

CVSAR and BCEHS worked together to locate, assess, treat and transport the injured patient from the trail. Air transport was considered, but weather conditions and aircraft availability made it unfeasible.

The patient was instead moved by ground ambulance, with critical-care support joining the transport en route to hospital. 

The rescue was carried out by CVSAR’s new Advanced Medical Team (AMT), which is overseen by emergency physicians and staffed by practising paramedics authorised to make clinical decisions in the field. 

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Powell River RCMP has joined a global digital bicycle-registration system designed to help reunite stolen bikes with their owners.

The online platform, Project 529, lets owners register their bicycles and issue an alert if one is stolen. Community members can report found bikes and notify police if they suspect they are stolen.

“In regions where the program has been deployed, there has been a marked decrease in bicycle thefts as the criminal element becomes aware of the project and the risk of apprehension increases,” Staff Sgt. Lee Dyson said.

An RCMP news release said registering a bike creates a direct link between the owner and the bicycle — making recovery easier if it is stolen.

The registration is free and takes only a few minutes to complete.

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The Hazelton Wolverines and Smithers Steelheads had different results in hosting the Prince Rupert Rampage over the weekend in the Central Interior Hockey League (CIHL).

On Saturday, the Wolverines beat the Rampage 7-6 with Ethan Browne scoring four goals for Hazelton.

On Sunday, the Steelheads lost to the Rampage 5-4 in overtime.

The 8-3-1 Wolverines sit in first place in the CIHL with 17 points while the Steelheads are sixth out of seven teams with a 3-7-1 record for seven points.

Both teams have home double headers this weekend.

Smithers will host the Quesnel Kangaroos on Saturday and the Williams Lake Stampeders on Sunday.

It is the opposite for Hazelton who will entertain Williams Lake Saturday and Quesnel on Sunday.

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It was another fantastic weekend for Operation Red Nose in Williams Lake getting drivers and their vehicles home safely.

Coordinator Deborah Pickering says on Friday night volunteers from U18 rep hockey, Citizens on Patrol, and first time community members Terri and Steven, provided 50 rides.

Saturday night Pickering says volunteers from Association for Community Living, Lakers Car Club, and Citizens on Patrol provided 40 safe rides home.

Operation Red Nose in Williams Lake has broken records for the most rides given on each of the first four Friday and Saturday nights over the past four years.

On the first weekend of the campaign, Friday Night November 28 a total of 10 safe rides home were given and the Saturday night November 29, they had thirty-three safe rides home.

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It took a team effort to successfully find a lost snowmobiler over the weekend.

On Saturday (December 6) Quesnel Search and Rescue received a request from RCMP to assist in locating a snowmobile rider who had become separated from his party in the Barkerville area.

“A friend of his attempted to locate him and was able to make contact via a UHF radio and could not reconnect with the person we were looking for.” Vice President and Search Manager with Quesnel Search and Rescue (QSAR), Bob Holowenko said, “In that case they ended up returning and reaching out to RCMP who began efforts to locate the subject.”

Holowenko said they ended up getting support from Prince George Search and Rescue due to the complexity of the terrain they were in and the risk for avalanche.

“We required additional high level resources from Prince George Search and Rescue. A combined team from Quesnel and Prince George was able to isolate the general area that the person was in. We did make contact with him via his UHF radio in order to get a very good idea of where he was simply by using the signal strength from his distress messaging.”

Holowenko said from that point the team was able to isolate a specific drainage on the side of the mountain, up in the Prosser Pine/Bald Mountain area.

“From there the team followed the drainage down til they met up with tracks that appeared that could be his. They were able to follow that down and eventually and did make contact with the person in the very early morning. We received the call late Saturday afternoon and did not leave the area until about 9 o’clock the next morning. We had the man back with his party around 6 Sunday (December 7) morning.”

Holowenko noted the communication device this snowmobiler had with him was 100 percent a life saver.

“He was very well prepared. Not only did he have a communication mechanism to communicate with the rest of his riding party, he also had with him the means to start as fire to warm himself up. Because we were in that transition temperature between zero degree and cooler, you get into that point where everything is wet and is very hard to maintain body temperature. When situations like this happen when you’re constantly getting wet from the surface melt, he was able to start a fire and sustain himself until our rescue teams could come and extract him.”

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The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary is launching an update of its solid waste management plan — the region’s guiding document for how we reduce, reuse, recycle, and manage garbage for the next ten years.

Originally approved in 2005, the plan is getting a long-overdue refresh to reflect today’s needs, new technologies, and the region’s growing commitment to waste reduction and environmental responsibility.

A key part of this work is creating a new public and technical advisory committee — a team of volunteers from across the RDKB who will help shape the future of waste in the region. Residents, recyclers, businesses, First Nations, industry, and community voices are all encouraged to apply.

The RDKB says the time commitment is small — five meetings over two years — but the impact is big.

Volunteers will help identify what’s working, what isn’t, and where we can go next as we work to extend landfill lifespans, keep materials out of the waste stream, and move closer to zero waste.

“This is our chance to build a waste plan that truly reflects who we are and where we’re going,” board chair Grace McGregor said in a news release. “We need local voices — people who care about the region, care about the environment, and want to be part of shaping something that affects every household and business.”

The plan update will run until summer 2027, supported by technical experts, community engagement, and direction from elected officials. RDKB residents can follow the project and participate at key stages through surveys, open houses, and online tools.

Terry Martin, chair of the solid waste management plan steering and monitoring committee, emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives.

“Waste touches everyone. Having a group that represents all corners of our region means we’ll make decisions that work for real people in real communities,” he said. “If you’ve ever had thoughts about garbage, recycling, composting — or how we could do better — this is your moment.”

The RDKB’s growing organics diversion program is already helping conserve landfill space and reduce green house gas emissions, but more work lies ahead. The updated plan will look at opportunities to reduce waste even further, improve services, adopt new technologies, and plan responsibly for future generations.

“This is about building a smarter, cleaner, more efficient system,” said Janine Dougall, RDKB general manager of environmental services. “Every voice we bring to the table helps us create a plan that protects our environment, supports our communities, and sets us up for long-term success.”

You can apply to volunteer, follow the project, sign up for updates, and explore background information on the RDKB’s Join the Conversation page.

Applications to join the group are open until Jan. 9.

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A coastal First Nation is celebrating what it calls a “precedent-setting” ruling from the British Columbia Court of Appeal in its challenge of the province’s mineral tenure system.

The Gitxaała Nation said Friday the B.C. Court of Appeal affirmed that First Nations can take the province to court if it fails to meet its obligations under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA).

DRIPA establishes the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as the province’s framework for reconciliation. 

The ruling came after the Gitxaała and Ehattesaht nations launched a partial appeal of a 2023 B.C. Supreme Court decision related to the province’s “free entry” mineral tenure system. Under the system dating back to the gold-rush era, anyone could register a mineral claim without consulting affected First Nations. 

The lower court found B.C.’s online system allowing automatic registration of mineral claims without First Nations’ consultation was unconstitutional. It ordered B.C. to create a new consultation process before granting mineral claims. 

The province launched the first phase of that new system in March 2025, incorporating a Mineral Claims Consultation Framework. It says the full online system will be available by next fall.

The nations had argued that the old system violated DRIPA, but the lower court ruling found DRIPA was not legally enforceable by a court.

B.C. Court of Appeal Justices Gail Dickson and Nitya Iyer overturned that finding, saying “the judge erred in adopting an unduly narrow approach to the legal effect of the Declaration Act and UNDRIP.”

The ruling declared the old mineral tenure system was inconsistent with UNDRIP. It said that the provincial government has a legal duty to co-operate with First Nations to align its laws with the UN Declaration.

The ruling emphasized that courts can decide whether a law is inconsistent with UNDRIP.

Justice Paul Riley wrote a dissenting opinion, saying its implementation should happen through government-Indigenous collaboration, not litigation.

“This is an exciting victory not only for Gitxaała but for all Nations,” said Gitxaała Chief Councillor Linda Innes in a statement. 

She said the consultation framework implemented by the province is “minimal” and called for a full overhaul of the Mineral Tenure Act in consultation with First Nations. 

The Association for Mineral Exploration (AME), which was an intervener in the case, notes the appeals court declined to delve into the scope of the requirements for “free, prior and informed consent” under UNDRIP. 

“[AME’s] view is that the interim measures of consultation created by the Mineral Claims Consultation Framework (MCCF) are consistent with the ruling, as they provide for consultation in advance of the granting of mineral claims,” it said in a statement.

“As we review the decision and the likelihood of future appeals, we will carefully consider our approach,” said AME President and CEO Todd Stone.

Regional Chief Terry Teegee welcomed the ruling.

“This legal victory sends a ground-shaking message to the provincial government: the Declaration Act is legally binding and cannot be implemented or interpreted in a unilateral Crown approach,” he said in a statement issued by the First Nations Leadership Council.

The B.C. Conservatives are calling for DRIPA to be repealed.

“This ruling highlights exactly what happens when government tries to legislate reconciliation through vague and undefined promises,” said deputy Indigenous relations and reconciliation critic Scott McInnis.

“The duty to consult is clear in Canadian law, and it must be honoured,” said McInnis. “DRIPA is creating confusion about who decides what, when, and by what standard.”

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It was a positive end to a weekend call for Prince George Search and Rescue.

Crews responded to assist with a lost snowmobiler in the Barkerville area. After a coordinated effort, the snowmobiler was successfully located and brought to safety.

PG Search and Rescue worked alongside Quesnel Search & Rescue stated the rider had fire-starting tools and a radio suitable for communicating with his party and SAR teams, which assisted in the rescue.

The group reminds people to be Adventure Smart — and to always check the local avalanche forecast.

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Old Man Winter is packing a major punch and travellers should reconsider heading north out of city limits.

Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Highway 97 and the Pine Pass.

30 to 40 centimetres is expected to fall with near zero visibility and blowing snow.

A strong Pacific frontal systems will move across the BC central interior bringing snow heavy at times to Highway 97 through the Pine Pass today and tonight.

The next frontal system will give another round of snow starting on Tuesday.

Travel will likely be hazardous and weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

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Renovations at the Keats Landing dock will result in closures this week, the Sunshine Coast Regional District said.  

The work is expected to be completed by Dec. 12. 

Crews will replace and repair guard rails, deck boards, flashing and cross-braces starting Dec. 8. The SCRD said ferry service via the Stormaway will be available on that day. 

After the initial repairs and the restoration of vehicle access, further structural work is scheduled at the dock, the district said in a news release. 

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It was a case of California dreaming for several judo standouts from Prince George.

Both Kiya and Olivia Wisniowski reached the podium at the US Winter Nationals in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Kiya claimed gold in the juvenile 64-kilgoram category and captured a silver medal cadet female 63-kilo division.

Olivia placed first in the cadet 70-kilogram category while also placing second in the senior female 78-kilo class.

In addition, Megan Grooten from the Hart Judo Academy took home a gold (Cadets 57 kilogram) a silver medal (Seniors 57 kilogram) as well as Outstanding Female Athlete of the Tournament.

Shane Grooten also picked up a gold medal (Juvenile 64 kilogram) in the competition.

Up next for the Wisniowski sisters, Olivia is headed to the French Polynesia (Tahiti) Tournament & Training Camp – December 8–16, 2025, then tournaments in Scotland & Morocco in January 2026.

Kiya is preparing to compete at the Sask Open in Regina, which takes place in the New Year.

Lastly, Carla Van Zyl won her first bout and lost her second at the Tokyo Open.

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98.9 Jet FM’s holiday fundraiser kicks off today at the Cumberland Fire Hall, collecting non-perishable food and monetary donations for the Comox Valley Food Bank. 

Chris Arruda, communications director for the food bank, said the fundraiser is a key initiative to help people in need. 

“It’s what carries us throughout the entire calendar year, so what we raise in 2025 during the holidays is going directly to people in need right now, but it’s also going to continue to help people far into 2026.”

The annual pallet challenge is returning, encouraging businesses, local organizations and private donors to purchase pallets for $500 each, with tax receipts available. 

Fully loaded pallets weigh 1,000 pounds and can include flour, toilet paper, powdered milk, canned goods, toiletries and other basic household items that some families struggle to afford. 

Arruda said a common misconception is that the food bank serves mainly unhoused people, when in fact it supports the wider community. 

“A lot of our clients have jobs, they have kids, they show up in their cars, and they get their groceries for the week, it’s people that are really struggling.”

Last year, donors purchased 146 pallets for more than $73,000. This year, the goal is to surpass those numbers. 

Jet FM will be on site at the Comox Fire Hall on Tuesday, Dec. 9, the Courtenay Fire Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 10, and Thrifty Foods on Cliffe Avenue on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 11 and 12. 

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Sports by Hartley Monday, December 8th, 2025  as of 12:05 a.m.

WHL:

RAV & CARSON ARE HEADED TO NIAGARA FALLS

Josh Ravensbergen and Carson Carels have been invited to @HockeyCanada World Junior Selection Camp in Niagara Falls, ON! pic.twitter.com/XMQVSswpVb

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 8, 2025

Prince George Cougars  4  Victoria Royals  3  (OT-Sunday)

Carson Carels scored at 24 seconds of overtime for the Cougars, who won their third straight and finished a 5-game road trip with a 4-1 record.

The game summary and highlights are here.

Prince George Cougars  3  Victoria Royals  2  (Shootout-Friday)

1st star Josh Ravensbergen made 31 saves for the Cougars, who overcame a 2-0 deficit.

The game summary and highlights are here.

The (20-8) Cougars host the (14-11-2-2) Kamloops Blazers on Spirit Weekend Friday night at 7:00 and Saturday night at 6:00.

Prince George leads the BC Division by 8 points over Kamloops.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

BCHL: 

Prince George Spruce Kings  7  Victoria Grizzlies  3  (Saturday)

The game summary is here.

Prince George Spruce Kings  5  Victoria Grizzlies  4  (Friday)

The game summary is here.

The Spruce Kings, riding a 4-game winning streak, visit the (15-6-1) Coquitlam Express Friday night at 7:00 and the (14-12) Langley Rivermen Saturday night at 7:15.

The (14-9-1) Spruce Kings sit in second place in the Coastal East Division just two points behind Coquitlam and one ahead of Langley.

The next home games for PG will be on Dec 19th and 20th against the Cowichan Valley Capitals at the Kopar Memorial Arena.

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Elk Valley RCMP are warning the public about fraudulent text messages and emails circulating in the community. 

Some of the scams claim a vehicle was caught speeding in a school zone and demand payment through a link, threatening further consequences with a driver’s licence if ignored. 

RCMP confirmed the messages are fraudulent. While fraud attempts occur year-round, police said there tends to be an increase during the winter months.

Police said if you commit a traffic violation, an officer will speak with you in person; they do not use text or email messages to issue tickets. 

Residents are urged to be extra cautious, block suspicious numbers and avoid clicking on unknown links or sending money.

Police emphasized the importance of verifying the source before sharing any personal or financial information.

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For the second game in a row, the Prince George Cougars needed extra time to pick up a victory over the Victoria Royals.

Carson Carels sealed the 4-3 win just 24 seconds into the overtime period, taking a feed from Brock Souch and placing a perfect wrist shot past Ethan Eskit.

Carson Carels secures point 4/4 on the weekend #NHLDraft | @CarlsJrCA https://t.co/zFnhBAHxjx pic.twitter.com/ApjfJ9N6od

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 8, 2025

 It was an incredibly tight game, with the Cougars barely outshooting the Royals by a 29-28 margin.

The shot totals were equal through each period of the first three periods, with the Cougars’ extra shot coming off Carels’ stick in the overtime period.

The scoring started early, with the Royals getting on the board in the first minute, with Hayden Moore tipping a point shot past Josh Ravensbergen.

Pov: you’re here for the first minute of the game pic.twitter.com/xyNw2v1ps8

— Victoria Royals (@victoriaroyals) December 7, 2025

Kooper Gizowski answered back at the 7:00 minute mark, coming off the bench and benefitting from Patrick Sopiarz’s forechecking efforts.

Kooper Gizowski has his 13th of the season!@CarlsJrCA https://t.co/xV39avqvKw pic.twitter.com/37buhTAVq9

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 7, 2025

Miles Cooper put the Royals back in front with a shorthanded marker later in the first, getting past Carels and sliding it past Ravensbergen.

Coop puts one in the SH column pic.twitter.com/tsaggSyV8i

— Victoria Royals (@victoriaroyals) December 7, 2025

The Cougars tied it again with the lone goal of the second period, with Townes Kozicky scoring his first WHL goal.

The first of many for Townes Kozicky!!@CarlsJrCA https://t.co/Cq2kE8GNoY pic.twitter.com/uGn6WPD7jk

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 7, 2025

In the third, Souch gave the Cougars their first lead of the night, scoring a goal that was the subject of a lengthy review.

Brock Souch has a nine game point streak, we have the lead!@CarlsJrCA https://t.co/v4AeJdjM71 pic.twitter.com/W30iR1y3nW

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) December 8, 2025

With Souch sitting in the penalty box, the Royals restored the deadlock, with Timofei Runtso firing home a shot from the point.

Tim ties it up! pic.twitter.com/lSH0GVlKG2

— Victoria Royals (@victoriaroyals) December 8, 2025

The box score is here.

The Cougars (20-8-0-0) are on top of the WHL’s BC Division.

The WHL standings are here.

The Cougars next two games will be at home, with Carson Carels Bobblehead night set for Friday, and Teddy Bear Toss set for Saturday.

The full Cougars schedule is here.

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Northern Health says the preferred mechanical and electrical non-owner participants (NOPs) for the UHNBC Acute Care Tower project have been selected; PML Professional Mechanical Ltd. and Houle Electric.

According to Northern Health, this milestone marks the full formation of the alliance for the UHNBC Acute Care Tower.

“This is a significant step for the UHNBC Acute Care Tower project and for patients and families across Northern B.C.,” said Minister of Health Josie Osborne.

“With the NOPs now selected, we’re moving closer to providing the timely, high-quality health care services that communities throughout the North deserve and rely on.”

“The formation of the full alliance marks an exciting step forward for the UHNBC Acute Care Tower project,” said Northern Health Board Chair Colleen Nyce.

“This collaborative approach ensures that every partner is working together from the very beginning to deliver a facility that meets the needs of patients and families across Northern B.C. We are proud to see this project advancing and look forward to the positive impact it will have on health care in our region for decades to come.”

Construction on the tower is expected to start in fall 2026, with an anticipated opening for patients in 2031.

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Mill Bay Fire Rescue says an RV fire had had a positive outcome after they responded to a call for service yesterday evening.  

According to the department, the fire broke out near Cobble Hill Road and Watson Avenue around 5:15 p.m. 

They say crews arrived on the scene quickly and were able to contain the fire from spreading to nearby structures.  

No one was in the RV at the time of the incident, and Mill Bay department says no other injuries were sustained.  

The area has since been cleared. 

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The North District RCMP says 33-year-old Thomas Duncan has been sentenced in relation to a homicide from 2022.

The Fort St. James RCMP responded to a report of shots fired on Spruce Road in the community on Friday, February 25, 2022.

Mounties say 36-year-old John Lazarre was then found deceased.

According to police, Duncan was arrested and charged in connection to the homicide, and later plead guilty to second degree murder in the shooting death of Lazarre.

On Wednesday, December 3, Duncan was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for ten years.

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Demand at the Nelson Public Library has surged back to pre-pandemic levels.

Library board chair Anni Holtby and chief librarian Tracey Therrien presented the library’s 2026 budget to council on Dec. 2.

Holtby and Therrien said the library is projecting to reach 130,000 visits by the end of 2025, which amounts to about 500 visits per day. Membership is also now at just over 7,800 active members.

They said these statistics represent a full return to pre-pandemic numbers.

While physical book borrowing has declined in recent years, digital circulation is increasing at a faster rate, but the shift comes at a higher cost.

“Digital circulation is increasing at a faster rate. This trend will pose a financial challenge for our library, as digital materials cost significantly more,” said Therrien.

For example, the Vancouver Public Library now circulates more digital than physical items, with Therrien noting that it relies heavily on fundraising to sustain its digital collection.

“Though we’re not at that stage yet, we are reallocating our funds to meet that digital demand,” she said.

Demand for senior programs is rising and teen engagement remains strong, while children’s programming faces what Therrien called “limitless demand.”

“The only constraint is staff capacity to deliver more programs and events.”

The library is requesting a five per cent increase in its budget from the city and a seven per cent increase from the regional district, which Therrien described as a fair request to ensure community needs are met.

“This is, we feel, a lean, carefully considered budget designed to meet community needs while respecting fiscal realities. We prioritized essential services and reduce spending where possible.”

The combined 12 per cent increase reflects negotiated union agreements and continued Sunday openings, while leveraging one-time grants to cover technology upgrades.

The largest increase relates to software modernization, which Therrien said ensures reliable public access and efficiency without “burdening city infastructure,” and she noted a funding shortfall could impact service delivery.

“We’re proposing to moving some of our public access software to a cloud-based system. If funding falls short, service reductions may be unavoidable, but our goal is to sustain accessibility and value for our residents.”

She highlighted how provincial library funding has remained static for 15 years.

“Provincial funding, as you all know, has remained static for 15 years and the enhancement grant ends in 2026, making these adjustments necessary to maintain service levels.”

The budget request will return to council for its first three readings at a later meeting.

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With the rise of social media and seasonal trends, many people are creating bigger, brighter holiday displays — and using more electricity in the process.

A new survey from BC Hydro shows apps like TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest are inspiring British Columbians to go all out with festive decorations. The Crown corporation says holiday lights now account for about 3 per cent of the province’s electricity use during the season.

Sixty per cent of residents use multiple strands of lights, while 25 per cent set up five or more inflatables.

It’s not just Christmas lights that have people feeling pressure. 45 per cent of people choose recipes and dishes based on social media while 12 per cent are aiming for picture perfect treats. Christmas time is already expensive and with all those things running it’s likely that energy bills will creep up.

To help customers cut down on consumption, the utility recommends several energy-saving tips:

• Switching to LEDs can save you about $40 per season
• Use timers so lights are only on when needed
• Smaller appliances do the trick, some cut energy use by 70 per cent
• Try not to overload circuits
• Let those fun inflatables breath over night by unplugging
• Upgrade older appliances  at bchydro.com/deals 
• Track your holiday energy usage with MyHydro tools at bchydro.com  
• Join team Power Smart and limit energy use by 10 per cent to earn $100 dollars if you sign up bchydro.com/jointheteam.

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A Cranbrook based educator has received recognition for her efforts to fight racism and promote inclusion in communities and classrooms.  

Adebusola Adebesin was honoured with the Intercultural Trust Award at the 2025 B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards. The annual accolades recognize leadership in promoting inclusion, diversity, equity and intercultural understanding.

The Intercultural Trust Award celebrates efforts to build trust and meaningful connections between communities.

Adebesin demonstrates leadership in championing multicultural values and organizing projects that foster inclusion. She also supports newcomers by providing cultural products, guidance and local service connections to strengthen community ties. 

“These award recipients exemplify the values of inclusion and respect that strengthen our province. Their leadership and creativity are inspiring. I am proud to honor their exceptional efforts to break down barriers, foster inclusion and build stronger, more equitable communities across British Columbia.” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. 

The awards have three categories to recognize teachers, community leaders and artists from across B.C. Three other individuals and one organization out of the nearly 50 nominated were also honored by the province. 

The awards are part of the B.C. government’s broader anti-racism efforts, such as the Anti-Hate Community Support Fund for marginalized and at-risk groups, the Resilience B.C. Anti-Racism Network, which provides training and support for responding to racism, Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants for community projects and a Racist Incidents Helpline to connect people with support resources.

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The weather blessed parents and kids of Quesnel with a chilly but not blistery afternoon for the kids’ visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The annual Santa Extravaganza jingled away in Quesnel’s Spirit Square, with a few dozen parents and kids braving the slushy snow to get their visit with St. Nick.

Although Santa couldn’t make it in on his sleigh with his reindeer, he did arrive in style thanks to the Quesnel Fire Department. Santa waved to the children from the nest of a fire engine, escorted by two firefighters. Jingling the horn to announce his arrival blocks away.

“The  Santa Extravaganza is a really great event that brings the community together. It’s a lot of fun for the kids,” said April Cameron, a Director of the Quesnel Downtown Association. “You know, without the help of the volunteers at the Quesnel Downtown Association, we couldn’t put this on without them. I’m happy everybody is having a great time.”

Filling Spirit Square was a few of Quesnel’s classic community businesses and organizations.

Granville’s Coffe provided hot chocolate, the Lions Club organized and provided games for the kids, the Hallis Lake and Cariboo Ski Touring Club had games and skiing courses the kids could run through, the Quesnel Literacy Society had holiday stories to read, Willis Harper set up the event, and the Quesnel Bakery provided holiday sprinkled cookies. Which were delicious as always.

City Furniture provided the Claus’ with the soft and supportive chairs to sit on, while each kid took their turn sitting on their laps.

“It’s just a really good and fun event. It’s really a team effort to bring it all together and make it happen,” Parveen Wander of City Furniture said. “There was something for everyone, by everyone. It’s just really great.”

The event concluded around 3 pm, and most, including the Clauses were able to get extra servings of hot chocolate.

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Elections BC has fined Crown Isle Holdings Ltd. $300 for breaching the Election Act during the 2024 provincial campaign.

Investigators say several signs went up on the Crown Isle golf course and other locations in Courtenay promoting candidate Brennan Day and a Conservative government at all levels. The signs did not include the required authorization statement, and Crown Isle had not registered as a third-party advertiser when the ads appeared.

Crown Isle filed its registration and added authorization stickers the next day. Elections BC noted the signs were displayed for less than two days, the company cooperated fully, and there was no deliberate attempt to circumvent the rules.

The investigation found that while the company was likely unaware of the registration requirement, the missing authorization reduced transparency of campaign spending. Under section 250.07 of the Election Act, a monetary penalty is required.

Elections BC said the company may request a review by an adjudicator within 14 days or seek relief from the B.C. Supreme Court within 30 days.

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This Saturday and Sunday is the RCMP’s annual Stuff the Cruiser event in Quesnel.

Each year, the local Mounties set up a police cruiser in Quesnel’s Walmart parking lot and fill it with donations from the public. Often, an additional cruiser or trailer is needed due to the generosity of the Quesnel community.

This year, the cruiser will be in the parking lot on Rita Road on December 6 and 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Police are asking the community to bring donations of non-perishable foods, unopened toys for children, winter clothing, and hygiene products. The RCMP will gather all donations and give them to local food banks, seniors, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Quesnel.

Last year’s event was another successful one. Police said they received $4,583 in cash and gift cards, 2,028 pounds of food, over 800 toys, and numerous personal hygiene and clothing donations.

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 The Municipality of North Cowichan says they’re taking immediate steps to support the 350 workers that’ll be impacted by the closure of the Crofton mill. 

Several steps are being taken by the municipality to help families, workers and businesses that’ll be affected by the closure including a community transition table, provincial engagement, supports for workers, supports for lost tax revenue, and economic diversification.  

The municipality says the mill generates the largest source of income in the area, and there’s no way to know what effect it’ll have on the community. 

“The Crofton mill has been North Cowichan’s largest taxpayer, contributing approximately $5 million in property taxes annually,” said the municipality. “It will affect municipal revenues, as well as local businesses by its closure.” 

Mayor Rob Doulgas has called the closure a disaster for the community, but he adds the municipality isn’t going to leave workers “high and dry.” 

“This is devastating news for local workers and their families,” said Douglas. “The mill has been a cornerstone of our local economy for generations, and we’re committed to doing everything possible to help people through this difficult time and find a way forward.” 

According to Domtar’s senior director of public affairs Chris Stoicheff, the mill will close to production on Dec. 15, and workers will remain employed until February, with some possibly staying until April. 

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The Williams Lake Hospice Society will once again be holding their Memory Tree celebration this Holiday Season.

“It’s the 30^th annual,” Executive Director Daphne Johnson said, “and it’s a service of remembrance and healing. It will be held tomorrow (December 7) from 3 pm to 4:30 pm at City Hall and everyone is welcome.”

Johnson said over the past couple of weeks they have been collecting names of loved who have passed away and we read the names out of our Memory Tree book.

“After the ceremony is completed we go and turn on the Hospice tree outside City Hall. The names we have collected get put onto ornaments on the tree that will be there until the end of the month.”

Johnson said the Memory Tree Celebration is a time for people to gather with others that have had the same type of experience, you’ve lost someone, and you can just share your stories and be together.

“I’ve been with Williams Lake Hospice for 12-years and in the beginning there was probably about 60 to 75 people and last year we had 85 to 90 come to this event.”

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The numbers tell a difficult story.

As reported in Food Banks Canada’s Hunger Count 2025, the 131 BC non-profits that submitted data recorded 223,340 monthly food bank visits this year, including more than 68,000 visits to help children access food. Across the Columbia Basin, demand continues to rise, with food banks and community food programs seeing more people with complex needs, including working families and seniors, turning to them for support.

To help during this particularly busy season, the Columbia Basin Trust is providing $5,000 to each of 40 food banks, First Nation communities and Métis associations across the region. These funds will support the purchase of food and essential items for community meals, hampers and other holiday efforts. This support follows recent Trust investments that help food banks upgrade equipment and improve their ability to serve residents year-round.

“Food banks and food programs are on the front lines of meeting residents’ essential needs,” president and CEO Johnny Strilaeff said in a news release. “When it comes to the well-being of our communities, food bank staff and volunteers are doing the fundamental work of making sure people have enough food to eat at a time when more people than ever are relying on their services.”

Supporting the Slocan Valley

The W.E. Graham Community Services Society’s Food Cupboard Program supports households throughout the Slocan Valley — from Crescent Valley to Enterprise Creek near New Denver. With more than 70 households accessing the program every two weeks, the Food Cupboard has recorded 1,300 visits since January.

“We are dealing with a growing demand for support along with increasing food costs year over year,” says manager Darrian Kolar. “More people have moved to our area and some residents’ lives have not bounced back from COVID.”

“The Trust’s $5,000 donation comes at a crucial time for our Slocan Valley Food Cupboard and Holiday Hamper program,” says executive director Chantal Smith.

“With rising food costs and an increase in families needing support, this contribution allows us to keep our shelves stocked and provide meaningful holiday hampers to households across the valley. We’re incredibly grateful for this support and the positive impact it will have in our community this December.”

Serving the Creston Valley and Beyond

The Creston Valley Gleaners Food Bank operates twice weekly, providing for 400 to 500 households and serving an area that includes Creston, Crawford Bay, Yahk and Kingsgate. Gleaners also runs a Food Share program, distributing donations from local bakeries, grocery stores and food producers to schools, daycares and seniors programs.

“We are seeing more working people and families coming to us — reaching up to 1,800 people each month,” says Bobbie-Jo Fay, food services and operations director. “The cost of living keeps going up and sometimes there is not much left at the end of the month for groceries. We see so much need for our services right now.”

Strengthening Community Connections

Even with the challenges and demands they face, food bank staff and volunteers describe their work as deeply meaningful. They emphasize that beyond providing food, they help foster connection, dignity and belonging.

“My biggest joy working here is the people — the volunteers, staff and the people that we serve,” says Fay. “Our community is amazing and is the reason we’re able to do what we do at the Gleaners.”

“I like that I am helping people in a meaningful way and building those connections,” says Kolar. “Every donation and every volunteer hour helps our community, and we truly rely on it.”

Food programs across the Basin are doing vital work to support residents during a time of rising need. The Trust is grateful to work alongside these organizations — through seasonal assistance and ongoing investments — to help ensure communities have access to safe, healthy food throughout the year.

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His work ethic is one of the reasons the Trail Smoke Eaters signed Dylan Danyluk at this time last year.

The coaching staff also liked the Saskatoon native’s ability to think and react quickly to whatever is happening on the ice.

The 18-year-old from Saskatoon says he continues to learn against bigger and stronger opponents in the BCHL who play at a much faster pace than the Saskatchewan U-18 AAA league.

The rookie forward adds that speaking with and watching his experienced team mates is an eye opener.

“I’m learning lots,” says the six-foot-two winger.

“There are a lot of veteran guys that are good overall, so I try to learn what I can from them and just apply that stuff to my game and get better,” stated Danyluk, who also credits repetition in practice.

“Repetition is the only way to get better,” he explained.

“If you want to get better at something you’ve just got to practice, keep working at it, so repetition plays a big aspect in improving and becoming a better hockey player,” added Danyluk, who has identified one part of his game that he really wants to zero in on.

“Puck possession down low is definitely a big one,” according to the former U-18 AAA Warman Wildcat who had 15 goals and 43 points in 44 games last season.

“Being a slimmer guy, there are some big defensemen, so it’s a challenge, but it’s definitely something I’m working on,” Danyluk said, adding that it’s a way he can contribute to the effectiveness of his line.

“I think our main focus is to try to bring energy,” he surmised, noting that they try to make the most of the ice time they receive.

“We’re not out there lots, we don’t score that much, but we got that energy, make some big hits, grind their (the opposition) team down and I think that brings the energy up for the rest of the boys and keeps everyone going,” he concluded.

Danyluk credits the veterans for being a constant resource for the rookies, saying it makes the first-timers feel welcome and builds a championship chemistry.

“I love it here, the guys are good, we have a really good team, I don’t play that much but the boys are very supportive, we have a really good team and I think we have a really good chance to go all the way this year.”

Danyluk has one assist in 16 games this season.

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Barkerville’s and Christmas’ Magic returns this year for one wondrous weekend.

The Historic Town and Park will host its annual Christmas event on December 13 and 14, offering the community a chance to find last minute Christmas gifts and experiences.

“We are very excited to celebrate Olde-Fashioned Christmas,” says Stewart Cawood, Manager of Public Programming and Media at Barkerville, in a statement.

“Our visitors and staff look forward to this weekend every year. It’s thanks to a generous donation from Osisko Mining Development – Cariboo Gold Project that we can offer programming like this that brings the town to life.”

Olde-Fashioned Christmas will give guests the chance to browse the unique shops the Historic Town has to offer. Mason & Daly, C. Strouss & Co., and the Eldorado Gift Shops will be open on both days. McPherson’s Jewellers will be open by appointment only.

As always, guests will be serenaded by caroling along Main Street, and be warmed with the chili at the House Hotel Saloon, and the baked goods at Goldfields.

More winter classics will also be available. The blacksmith’s forge and the Cariboo Sentinel will be operating, as well as the Town’s Live Programming. Horse-drawn sleigh rides and photos with Father Christmas will also be available, and can be booked in person during the weekend.

Visitors should prepare for the conditions. Dress warmly and prepare for the changing winter weather and road conditions along Highway 26.

More information and booking admissions can be found on Barkerville’s website.

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Creston residents continue to rate their quality of life highly, according to the results of the town’s 2025 resident survey.

The survey was conducted by Align Consulting Group through a mail-to-online method using 1,500 randomly selected households.

The company’s Liddie Sorenson-Lawrence presented the findings to council on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

She said 591 of the 1,500 households selected to take part completed responses, a 40 per cent response rate, which she noted is up from the 2022 resident survey that saw a 35 per cent response rate.

The study found 89 per cent of respondents rate their quality of life as “good” or “very good,” consistent with results from 2022.

About a quarter of respondents said life in Creston had improved over the last three years, while 47 per cent said it had stayed the same.

Top concerns

Affordable housing was identified as the top local issue respondents believe requires attention, with 26 per cent selecting it as their top concern. That’s down from 34 per cent in 2022, though still the most cited issue.

“Despite this being the largest concern, the availability of affordable housing, we have seen a notable improvement,” said Sorenson-Lawrence.

“There’s still room for improvement, but large gains have been made thus far.”

She said residents also identified property taxes and access to health care as areas needing attention.

In terms of taxation, residents remain evenly divided. Just over 50 per cent said they would accept increases to taxes to maintain or expand services, up from 44 per cent in 2022.

The remaining 49 per cent said they would prefer reducing or maintaining taxes even if it means cutting services. Respondents also largely preferred keeping most budgeted items at current levels.

“The vast majority just would like to have everything maintained at the current spending levels,” said Sorenson-Lawrence.

High-scoring areas

Protective services performed strongest across all municipal service categories, with satisfaction levels ranging from 74 to 82 per cent.

Satisfaction with the RCMP jumped by 14 points to 76 per cent, while bylaw satisfaction increased from 39 per cent in 2022 to 48 per cent in 2025.

“Every single element of municipal services saw a statistically significant increase in overall satisfaction compared to three years ago,” noted Sorenson-Lawrence.

Garbage collection, drinking water and sewage treatment also scored well. Garbage collection rose from 72 per cent to 82 per cent satisfaction, and compost curbside collection climbed from 53 per cent to 79 per cent.

Areas within the municipal services categories residents said need the most improvements included road maintenance and repair, snow removal and parts of the town’s transportation network, particularly around wheelchair and scooter accessibility.

Satisfaction with public washrooms, playgrounds and park safety all declined slightly, with public washrooms dropping from 65 to 57 per cent.

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Columbia Basin Trust is providing $5,000 to three organizations in Cranbrook to help with the increase of food demands around the holiday season.

The funds will be used to purchase essential items for community meals, fill food hampers and support holiday programming. While the Trust supports food banks and food programs year-round, it is distributing $5,000 each to 40 food banks, First Nations communities and Métis associations across the region during this particularly busy season.

The three local recipients are the Cranbrook Food Bank Society, the Rocky Mountain Métis Association and Cranbrook Operation Street Angel. The $15,000 in local support will help feed residents in nee

These donations follow a financial investment the Trust has made to upgrade equipment in foodbanks of surrounding areas including Cranbrook’s.

Food banks and community food programs are seeing more people with complex needs, turning to them for support and donations such as these from the Trust help provide the help that’s needed.

“Were grateful to work alongside food banks, First Nation communities, and Metis partners. Their commitment strengthens our communities everyday, and we are proud to support the work they do.” Said Johnny Strilaeff, President and CEO of Columbia Basin Trust. 

In addition to Cranbrook, $5,000 will be distributed to the following East Kootenay organizations: Canal Flats Food Bank, Creston Valley Gleaners Food Bank, Elkford Food Bank, Elk Valley Métis Association, Fernie Food Security, Fernie Salvation Army Family Services, Golden Métis Nation Columbia River Society, Golden Food Bank, Invermere Columbia Valley Métis Association, Invermere Columbia Valley Food Bank Society, Kimberley Helping Hands Food Bank and Sparwood Food Share.

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Interior Health staff in the East Kootenay are learning how to better support Indigenous patients by integrating traditional healing practices into modern health care.

The training, called “Medicine for the People”, focused on Indigenous culture, practices, and traditional medicines used by the Ktunaxa Nation and other Indigenous peoples.  

“Incorporation of our traditional medicines and healing practices is essential to serve the holistic wellness of Indigenous peoples. The knowledge of our traditional medicines was passed down through our oral history. This is why we have unwavering belief in our medicines. Nothing should sway us or stop us from relying on our medicine.” Said Lenora Starr, MSW, Indigenous Cultural Safety Practice Lead with Indigenous Partnerships

The training from Starr prepares IH staff for a new Access to Traditional Indigenous Healing Practices (ATIHP) policy, meaning Indigenous healing practices such as smudging and other traditions will have more support at care facilities. The group session allowed for hands-on learning, a chance to ask questions, and guidance so they can support Indigenous clients with confidence and respect.

Indigenous medicines have been used for thousands of years. This training provided important history and context, helping staff understand their significance and improving access for Indigenous clients across the East Kootenay.

Staff will not perform ceremonies themselves. The training ensures they can create space for ceremonies and support access to traditional medicine.

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British Columbia added 6,200 jobs in November, according to the latest report from Statistics Canada. 

B.C.’s unemployment rate declined to 6.4 per cent, from 6.6 per cent in October. 

The province saw the largest job gains in agriculture and utilities, along with the professional, scientific and technical services sector. 

Meanwhile, there was a loss of 6,800 jobs among finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing. The transportation and warehousing sector also shed 3,300 jobs.

B.C.’s youth unemployment rate fell 2.4 points to 12.5 per cent. It follows a national trend, marking the first increase in employment for youth since the start of the year.

Canada’s economy added 54,000 jobs in November, largely driven by gains in part-time work. The national unemployment rate edged down slightly to 6.5 per cent. 

B.C. Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon said the numbers show the province’s economy is holding steady, despite global uncertainty and U.S. tariffs. 

“Over the past 12 months, B.C. has added 40,400 new jobs, led by gains in manufacturing and construction. This demonstrates the work we’re doing to build the infrastructure needed to keep up with the growth of our province,” said Kahlon. 

Gavin Dew, Conservative MLA for Kelowna-Mission and critic for small business and innovation, notes the unemployment rate among women rose in November and remains higher than the overall rate.

The StatCan report says unemployment among women aged 15 and up rose to 6.7 per cent in November, up 0.6 per cent from the previous month.

“When the people who keep households running are falling behind, that is not a comeback. Insecurity is spreading,” said Dew.

He also pointed to recent disruptions in the forests sector, including the planned closure of the Crofton pulp mill early next year, which is expected to affect about 350 workers. 

“Lower perceived job security, combined with low business confidence, means we are heading into the Christmas season with families feeling less stable, not more,” said Dew.

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Interior Health(IH) has ordered the closure of the pool, hot tubs, and restaurant at the Spruce Hills Resort, effective immediately.

In a statement issued on December 5, IH advised the public of health risks at the Resort and Spa due to contraventions with the BC Public Health Act and the Drinking Water Protection Act.

The health authority advises the public to avoid using the resort’s facilities until they not longer pose a risk to public health.

“Spruce Hills Resort has had a number of orders and tickets issued to them over the last few years,” says Courtney Zimmerman, the Corporate Director of Environmental Public Health and Licensing for Interior Health.

She says Interior Health has received around 20 complaints about Spruce Hills over the last couple of years. So far in 2025, IH has received 14 complaints from members of the public who stayed at the resort.

“In the last four years, Interior Health has had over 200 enforcement actions against this facility. Those actions are everything from inspections, complaint inspections, orders, tickets, and court appearances. We chose to issue this public service announcement because when [IH] goes to the facility and puts the orders up, the next time [IH] returns to the facility, the orders have been pulled down.”

Zimmerman says the resort has had a boil water notice on its drinking water supply for several years. During one of IH’s recent inspections, the facility has not been notifying the public who are using the facilities of the boil water notice.

The resort has also been ordered to close its restaurant due to concerns and complaints about its food preparation and handling practices.

In addition, the pool and hot tubs have been ordered closed due to inspections and concerns that the facilities have been operating without proper cleaning and disinfection services. According to IH, unapproved changes have been made to the mechanical systems of the pool and hot tubs, posing a risk to suction and entrapment hazards that are deemed unsafe for public use.

In one of IH’s more recent complaints, the health authority received in October and in the last few weeks, an inspection completed by Technical Safety BC identified concerns in the resort’s mechanical rooms that resulted in the rooms being deemed “unsafe for environmental health officers to enter” the back rooms of the pool.

“Because we’re unable to determine what additional risks are in the facility, and it was realized it was unsafe for an environmental health officer to enter the back of the facility, we decided it was time to notify the public, as it appears the risks are escalating,” Zimmerman says.

“We’re very concerned about the public unknowingly using these facilities. We’re currently working with our legal team on the next steps. At this time, we’re working with other agencies like Technical Safety and BC Crown Counsel to see what our next steps are with this facility.”

IH says it will continue to monitor the report into Spruce Hills and says it will take further enforcement action under provincial legislation, if necessary, to address public health concerns.

This would include the resort working with environmental health officers, and bringing in engineers to assess the pool, hot tub, and restaurant to ensure any changes made to the systems are safe, and take corrective actions.

The Health Authority also advises the public to contact their health care providers if they suspect they have become ill after swimming, eating, or drinking at Spruce Hills.

Anyone who has a public health concern towards Spruce Hills, or any other business, is advised to contact the IH Environmental Public Health department to file a complaint.

Vista Radio contacted Spruce Hills for a comment. The operator said the “concerns aren’t true” and refused to give an interview.

** Story has been updated to include Courtney Zimmerman’s comments **

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Police in the Comox Valley are seeking help to locate a missing man.

RCMP say 37-year-old Wesley Gilroy was last seen Wednesday, Dec. 3, near the 100-block of Lerwick Road in Courtenay.

He is described as six feet tall, weighing 175 pounds, and wearing a dark green hoodie, black pants and red-and-black gloves.

Officers say they are concerned for his health and safety.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Comox Valley RCMP.

Find a photo of Gilroy below.

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The Ocean Legacy Foundation has completed a remote shoreline cleanup in Quatsino territory on northern Vancouver Island.

According to a social media post by the foundation, a Quatsino Guardian, two volunteers from West Coast Heli and a pilot helped remove 8,000 pounds of debris from the hard-to-reach coast.

Carina Ramirez, outreach and content coordinator at the foundation, said the professionalism and adaptability of volunteers were key to the effort’s success.

“The cleanup spanned two weekends and was carried out with the support of a dedicated team of highly trained volunteers,” Ramirez said. “The volume of debris collected, particularly the significant amount of Styrofoam along the coastline, highlights the ongoing challenges facing these remote shorelines. Throughout the operation, the team made careful, safety-focused decisions in response to changing seasonal conditions, ensuring the work was completed responsibly and effectively.”

Drivers with Fox’s Disposal also helped load bins with plastic waste.

The Ocean Legacy Foundation, based in Vancouver, is an internationally recognized non-profit specializing in plastic pollution response. The Quatsino cleanup was completed in late November.

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Residents can soon hit the slopes in Fernie, with the ski hill set to open on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Terrain will be limited until more snow hits, but Fernie Alpine Resort has confirmed that the Elk Chair will be spinning with access to Lizard Run.

They said more terrain is close to ready, so it shouldn’t be much longer.

The Elk Chair will be running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

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In the wake of John Rustad resigning from the BC Conservatives, our local MLAs are supporting interim leader Trevor Halford.

Rustad resigned after a majority of his caucus voted to remove him as leader.

Columbia River Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis said he respects Rustad and wishes him the best.

“I have nothing but respect for John. He took a risk on me as a new candidate when the election started and I’m forever grateful for him doing that,” he said.

“John has worked diligently to provide British Columbians with a strong alternative vision to
the NDP.”

Kootenay Rockies MLA Pete Davis echoes the sentiment on his social media.

“The Conservative Party of BC would not be where it is today without his leadership,” he said.

“We will always remember John as the leader who helped reignite this party. His legacy deserves to be protected, respected, and carried forward.”

McInnis said he will not be saying which way he voted, while Davis said he wasn’t in the building when it took place.

“Whether I supported or voted against John will stay with me,” McInnis added.

“I don’t think it’s helpful to be out there in the media as to who those individuals were or were not.”

“I want to be very clear: I was not in the building for this vote,” said Davis.

“But I believe in democracy, and when there is a majority decision whether I agree with it or not I have a responsibility to respect the outcome. That is how you play as a team.”

Both MLAs believe Halford will be a stable interim leader until a leadership race takes place.

“I want to thank Trevor Halford for stepping up as the interim leader of the Conservative Party of BC,” Davis said.

“This is a tough role to take on, especially at a time like this, but Trevor has the experience and steady hand we need right now.”

“Trevor is someone that has respect in our caucus room. He’s been around the legislature for over 20 years. He brings not only an aspect of experience to the interim role but one of stability,” said McInnis.

“Trevor’s a very poignant leader and commands respect in the room, but understands his role as an interim leader.”

McInnis said it’s been a tumultuous time for the party over the past week, but he’s excited about what the future holds for the BC Conservatives.

“The past few days have been challenging as we navigated difficult circumstances that led to this change. That said, our caucus is now fully focused on holding the NDP government to account,” he added.

“This is the mandate British Columbians elected us to fulfill, and we will work collectively to deliver on that responsibility.”

The party has not announced when the leadership race will take place.

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A gaming session between friends ended up triggering a police investigation in Cranbrook.

Police responded to a report of a disturbance where a man and woman were screaming at each other.

Officers arrived at a residence and found a group of friends playing Grand Theft Auto.

They explained to police that one of the friends made a questionable decision in the game and lost a bunch of fictional money.

Officers verified the story independently with all parties and it was a friendly uproar that took place no real disturbance.

While this was a false alarm, the detachment said it’s always good to call in suspicious occurrences just in case.

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With the holidays approaching, the City of Cranbrook will be adjusting its office and facility hours.

City hall will be closed from Dec. 22-26, will be open from Dec. 29-31 and closed again on New Years Day.

The Western Financial Place office will be closed for the same days and open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. when they reopen.

Specific times for the aquatic centre can be found here.

The public library will be open on Dec. 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but will close from Dec. 25-28 and again on Jan. 1.

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Sparwood council has given three readings to rate changes brought on by curbside recycling.

The District will start collecting recycling in the Spring of 2026 and is amending the utility and solid waste bylaw to update the rates.

The current bylaw rates for solid waste collection are expected to be $104.93 per quarter in 2026, but with recycling will it will go to $107.17 a quarter.

A five per cent increase will occur in 2027 upping the quarterly amount to $130.

District staff said the proposed increase is lower than anticipated because the waste management surplus is being utilized to offset the costs of purchasing the recycling bins.

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Santa Claus himself is making a special trip to Sparwood to make sure local kids are on their best behavior before Christmas Day.

The Ol’ Jolly Maker will be taking a tour of the community on Dec. 17 starting at 5:30 p.m.

Babbo Natale has already arranged an escort with the Sparwood Fire Department since his reindeer have to rest up for the big night.

Sinterklaas will also be handing out chocolate bars to spectators he sees around the community.

Father Christmas and his transport team will start their tour at the fire department, but will make sure to visit every street in town.

The Weihnachtsmann’s tour route can be found here.

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The Columbia Valley Landfill is closed until further notice following a fire at the site.

Firefighters responded to the blaze and have asked residents and visitors to avoid the area.

The landfill, located at 1875 Windermere Loop Road, will remain closed until the fire is fully extinguished and the facility is secured. Further information will be released once the site is safe.

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The City of Campbell River is holding a second open house for the Quinsam Heights neighbourhood plan on Monday, Dec. 8.

City officials are inviting residents to provide input to help guide the future of the growing community.

According to a city news release, the neighbourhood plan was last updated in 2008.

“Since 2008, Quinsam Heights has seen rapid new growth and development. As the city continues to grow, Quinsam Heights will remain an important area for addressing the community’s future housing needs,” the release said. “This update will guide how the neighbourhood evolves while balancing housing, retail, business, open space, transportation and recreation, and maintaining the areas that are a key part of the neighbourhood’s identity.”

The drop-in event will showcase the proposed plan and include discussion periods connecting residents with city staff and planning experts. Feedback collected at the open house will help refine the plan before it is finalized.

The event runs from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Campbell River Community Centre, 401 11th Ave.

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Smithers RCMP is reminding residents of scams during the holiday season.

Constable Jocelyn Foidart said there is an increase in attempts this time of year knowing people are shopping more online and can be distracted.

“One of the biggest scams circulating right now is gift card scams.”

“We just want people to remember that scammers often pretend to be a boss, family member, business owner, but no legitimate [entity] will demand payment that way,” She added.

Delivery related scams Foidart mentioned are also going around and contain a link to a fraudulent website.

“If you are unsure, go directly to Canada Post, UPS, and never try to respond through a texted link,” she said.

A main tactic used by scammers is creating urgency which Foidart said is thrived on.

She added if anyone comes across a scam, to trust their instincts and delete it.

“Best course of action if you think you’ve been scammed, try to act as quickly as possible. The sooner you respond to it, the better chance of reducing harm,” said Foidart.

Steps include contacting your bank and credit card company, contacting the police, and reaching out to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

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Courtenay residents are being encouraged to help identify accessibility barriers in the community. 

The City of Courtenay is launching a survey next week to develop its Accessibility Plan. The plan aims to identify, remove and prevent barriers in municipal services, programs, facilities and information. 

Acting Mayor Wendy Morin said accessibility is about dignity, equity and ensuring everyone can participate in community life. 

“By sharing your experiences, you’re helping create a future where all residents have equal access to the spaces, programs and services that make Courtenay a great place to live.” 

The plan will build on the 2023 Comox Valley Local Governments Accessibility Framework developed by local municipalities, the Comox Valley Regional District and the Comox Valley Accessibility Committee. 

The survey invites residents to share experiences with barriers — physical, attitudinal, informational and communicational, systemic, sensory and technological — across areas such as transportation, the built environment, employment, communication, service delivery and housing. 

The survey opens on Dec. 8 and will be available until Jan. 16, 2026, and can be found here. 

Results will inform a draft accessibility-action plan, with the final Accessibility Plan expected in late spring 2026, and updates at least every three years as required under provincial legislation. 

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Almost half a million dollars will support students at Vancouver Island University facing financial hardship. 

The university said its 12th annual Giving Tuesday campaign raised $339,000 this week, and matching funds brought the total to $481,000. 

The money will support the VIU Access Fund, which helps students with finances when barriers threaten their ability to complete their education. It funds initiatives such as food security supports and equipment for assignments or field work. 

“Thank you to all our donors for believing in – and investing in – our students,” said Dr. Dennis Johnson, VIU interim president and vice-chancellor. “As the cost of living continues to rise, your generosity helps ensure students not only start their education, but are able to stay, succeed and complete their studies. Every donation, big or small, directly supports a student’s ability to focus on learning and reach their goals. Together, we’re creating opportunities that allow students to thrive, and ultimately give back to their communities.” 

The fund has supported initiatives this year including the Career Closet, the Cowichan Food Pantry, the Gear Closet and the Laptop Loan Program. VIU said the Career Closet provides gently used professional clothing to students for job interviews. 

“I see students coming in and you just see their confidence grow when they put on that suit jacket or those pants,” said Peggy Janssens, Career Closet coordinator and a second-year master of business administration student. “We hope that giving them that extra small piece of the puzzle completes everything and gets them as ready as possible.” 

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Christmas came early this year to members of the South Cariboo Search and Rescue Team.

SARS President Neil Mason said they are incredibly grateful for Chemo RV’s generous donation of a snowmobile trailer to support their Winter Rescue Response Team.

“It gives us the capability to move a snowmobile or accommodate a quad as well which will allow us to transport this equipment to winter emergencies we may get tasked out on.”

Neil noted that South Cariboo Search and Rescue (SCSARS) didn’t have a trailer before.

“In the past we’ve used personal trailers to transport quads and snowmobiles. We are also acquiring a snowmobile for our team for the first time this year. We got a very generous donation from West Fraser and that will pair up very nicely with the trailer we received.”

On SCSARS Facebook post they said this donation will play a vital role helping their volunteers respond faster when every minutes count.

“The trailer donation was really unexpected and we’re super grateful to the people at Chemo RV for providing that to us,” Neil said, “We are a volunteer organization and we require on funding and donations to exist. Businesses like these who are willing to step up and donate helps provide the service we do for the community.”

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Bulkley Valley Search and Rescue (BVSAR) is continuing to fundraise for a new truck a year after its initial one burned down.

Members were on a call in Witset with the vehicle which was left on a main forest service road to travel a decommissioned one to the search site.

“By the time we drove back to where our vehicles were, the truck had burnt down,” said Member Scott Ballhorn.

The vehicle’s contents were able to be replaced with $50,000 raised so far between grants and donations.

Ballhorn added the price of vehicles in the past year have increased with the organization’s goal being $160,000.

About $10,000 of that was raised during last year’s Banff Mountain Film Festival in Smithers which is being held again on January 21st.

“100 per cent of the procedes will go towards fundraising the replacement of a truck and hopefully we can double that amount,” said Ballhorn.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with tickets available on the BVSAR website.

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An annual, classic, Quesnel Christmas event will take place this weekend.

The Quesnel Old Time Fiddlers’ Christmas Dance and Potluck Dinner is celebrating more than 50 years of its annual event at the Quesnel Legion Hall this Saturday, December 6.

“This event has been going on longer than I have been a part of the organization,” says Gloria Weber, the Secretary for the Fiddlers’ Association, who has been with the group since the ’90s.

“We gather every year, and family and friends wrap presents for the little kids, have candy bags, and play tunes. We have our potluck and dance that used to go to two o’clock in the morning, but now our group is getting a little older, and we stop around 10 at night.”

Newer to the Fiddlers over the last two years is the accompaniment of other musical instruments. This year, they have an accordion, played by Weber, a trumpet, guitars, a bass, and a piano accompaniment by Hal Giles, who has played blues and rock across the Cariboo.

More musicians and fiddlers from around the Cariboo make the journey to Quesnel for the Fiddlers’ Christmas Dance each year.

The Christmas Dance and Potluck Dinner has been a long-standing holiday activity tradition in Quesnel. But with it comes the issue that the once larger crowds have started to age, and it has been harder to maintain long-term attendance.

That, however, according to Weber, has also started to see a turnaround in the last few years.

“We’ve made a connection with the dance studio next door to where we practice at the Quesnel Bingo Hall,” Weber says. “The studio has contra and round dancing lessons, and they’ve become involved in attending our dances. That’s been drawing in a younger crowd, which is nice, and they bring all of their kids, which has just been lovely for the Christmas cheer.”

The Old Time Fiddlers’ Christmas Dance is often held at the beginning of December, and has been one of the first signs that Christmas has arrived in Quesnel for generations, and with a newcoming younger crowd, it looks like it will continue to be that sign for more to come.

The Christmas Dance will be located at the Quesnel Legion Hall, starting with a visit from Santa for the kids at 5 p.m. The Potluck Dinner will begin at 6 p.m., and the music and dancing will start at 7 p.m.

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The holiday season is officially rolling into the Comox Valley. Downtown Courtenay’s annual Christmas parade returns this weekend.

Floats will depart from Harmston Avenue and 5th Street and travel toward Cliffe Avenue. The Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association, which organises the event, is reminding people to arrive early to find parking.

It also said there will be prizes for best floats in several categories.

“This year with gift prizes for best floats in various categories, the parade will bring a great deal of attention to your business or organization and lots of Holiday spirit to the Comox Valley,” said a statement from Downtown Courtenay.

The parade begins at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, and Santa is expected to be among the guests.

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BC Transit and the Cowichan Valley Regional District are rolling out several updates to the Cowichan Valley transit system early in the new year, including expanded service and fare changes.

The most notable addition comes to the Cowichan–Victoria commuter route, which will now operate on Sundays for the first time starting January 4th, 2026. The expansion is expected to give riders more flexibility for weekend travel between the Valley and the capital region.

BC Transit is also adjusting schedules on a number of local routes. The changes are designed to improve reliability, strengthen connections, and better align service levels with rider demand.

New fares will take effect the same day.
Updated schedules and full details on the fare changes will be posted on the BC Transit website ahead of the launch.

Officials say the improvements are part of a broader effort to support growing ridership and provide more convenient regional transportation options throughout the Cowichan Valley.

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Blood lead levels in Trail and Rivervale children were up slightly this year, but a medical health officer says it’s part of natural variability and not cause for alarm.

Samples were collected from children ages six months to 36 months. Those living in two areas closest to the Teck smelter had average levels of 2.3 micrograms per decilitre, while those further away had an average of 1.8. 

Average levels in the two more affected areas for the past few years are as follows: 2.2 in 2024, 2.1 in 2023, 2.3 in 2022, 2.5 in 2021, 2.3 in 2020, 2.6 in 2019 and 2.9 in 2018.

Including children from all three areas, the average level this year was 2.2 compared to 2.0 last year.

Dr. Karin Goodison said levels can be influenced by air, weather, and where the tested children live. While the average level is up slightly this year, she said it’s more important to look at the bigger picture over five or 10 years.

“We’re going to have years that it goes up and we’re going to have years that it goes down,” she said. “And often before we see a significant dip, we’ll see a little rise. So there’s a lot of variability, especially when we’re looking at fairly small numbers.”

Goodison said the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee continues to work to reduce potential exposures that can lead to elevated blood levels for children, but eventually it becomes harder to go much lower. 

In the 1990s, the average blood level in Trail children was close to 15.

Goodison said she was “thrilled” at the number of families who voluntarily brought their children to be tested, because it helps them understand the factors that can affect a child’s lead levels and help to further reduce those levels.

This year, of the 166 children were invited to participate, 125 attended, and 118 samples were successfully collected, including from many children who live in areas potentially more impacted by smelter emissions.

Turnout for testing fluctuates and saw a “significant dip” in 2020 due to the pandemic, but the numbers have since rebounded.

Goodison said they test that specific age range because it is when kids are most at risk of having high blood levels, due to crawling on the ground and putting things in their mouth. She said blood lead levels typically peak around age two and then decrease.

“So we’re really looking to pick the time when we’ll see the highest blood leads and we’re also doing it in the fall when we would expect children to have had the most exposure to the environment,” she said.

In addition to its testing program, the health and environment committee works on air quality improvements, soil management, community education, and helping families understand and reduce exposure in their homes.

(CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story contained an incorrect figure: the average blood lead level of children who live further away from the smelter was 1.8, not 1.4.)

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Mark your calendars — the 2025 Creston Christmas Parade is happening this Saturday, Dec. 6, and the Town of Creston said it’s shaping up to be a festive favourite for all ages.

The parade will begin at 5 p.m., with road closures along the route starting at 4 p.m.

The route begins at the RBC branch and will proceed down Canyon Street, ending at Classic Glass.

This year’s theme is Gingerbread Lane. Float entries embracing the theme will be eligible for prizes.

Float entry is free. Registration forms are available at Pealow’s and the Creston Valley Visitor Centre.

Pealow’s and the Creston Lions Club have partnered to support the 2025 Christmas Hamper Program. For every float entered, a $50 donation will be made to the initiative.

“Let’s light up Canyon Street with holiday cheer — and community spirit!” said council.

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November will be a month to remember when it comes to weather in the region.

Environment Canada Meteorologist Ken Dosanjh said temperature wise both Quesnel and Williams Lake were warmer than normal.

“Quesnel had its 17^th warmest November on record. Typically Quesnel has a normal average of minus point 8 degrees Celsius and this year it was plus 1.7. Williams Lake experienced its 10^th warmest November on record. Normal temperatures are minus 1.7 degrees and last month it was point 6.”

When it came to how much precipitation the region received Dosanjh had this to say.

“Quesnel typically sees 44.8 millimetres in November and last month they received 23.2 making it the 26^th driest on record. For Williams Lake normal total precipitation is 42.1 millimetres, this November saw 26.9 which made it the 20^th driest on records.”

Dosanjh also went over the numbers for the entire Fall season, September through November.

“The normal temperature for Quesnel is 5.4 and this it was 7.2 degrees Celsius making it the fifth warmest meteorological Fall on record. Williams Lake’s normal temperature for that time frame is 4.5 degrees Celsius and the average temperature we saw was 6.7 making the second warmest meteorological Fall on record.”

Precipitation amounts September through November, Quesnel’s normal amount is 150.9 millimetres and a total of 171.9 fell over that time span.

Williams Lake normal precipitation through the Fall is 122.5 and this year it was 73.3.

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The Kootenay unemployment picture has changed drastically in the last year.

Statistics Canada reported that the region’s unemployment rate for November was 6.8 per cent, compared to 3.6 per cent in November 2024.

The federal agency’s report released today also states that there were around 82,000 Kootenay residents in the work force last month, while there were approximately 86,600 people working in the Kootenays last November.

The number of job seekers throughout the region jumped from around 3,200 last November, to about 6,000 last month.

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The Trail Smoke Eaters have acquired a big 19-year-old defenseman.

Matthew Keller comes over from the Prince George Spruce Kings for future considerations.

The 6-foot-3-inch, 205 pound rearguard played last season for the Centennial Cup Champions in his hometown of Calgary.

He has also played for Victoria in the Western Hockey League.

Keller is due to arrive in Trail this afternoon and is expected to make his Smokies debut Saturday night in West Kelowna.

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The true Spirit of Christmas shone brightly Wednesday (December 3) in Williams Lake.

Many residents showed up for the 28^th annual Yuletide Dinner put on by the Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre and the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

CDC Program and Practice Manager Jackie Davy said they started letting people into the Sacred Heart Hall at 3:55 and there was quite the lineup.

“It’s an event that supports family members and community members in need driven by volunteers and donations. It’s a really community event that we love putting on.”

Davy said by the time dinner ended (ran from 4 pm to 7 pm) they had served approximately 528 meals and handed out 75 take out meals on Thursday as well.

“The people who come out to this free turkey dinner with all the fixings are so appreciative where they can enjoy a warm space to sit down and just enjoy a hot home cooked meal.”

Davy said it takes a lot of volunteers to donate their time to put on an event like this.

“We had over 100 volunteers Wednesday night including the day before doing the prep and cooking. We super grateful to those who continually come out to help and we had a lot of new volunteers this year which is always great. A big thank you to our partners chef Dave from the Laughing Loon and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.”

Councilors Shelia Boehm and Joan Flaspholer also came out to the Yuletide Dinner to help serve.

Up next for the Child Development Centre is their annual Christmas Wish Breakfast that will be held this coming Wednesday (December 10) at Boston Pizza from 6:30 am to 9 am.

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Lily is this week’s Summit Radio and BC SPCA Pet of the Week!

Lily is a beautiful Grey and white long haired girl with lot of love to give. She has lived with other cats although she would prefer to be the only cat in the home. She was originally adopted through the Nelson BCSPCA as a kitten but unfortunately her family was unable to take you to their new home. Lily will adjust quickly to a new place but does not like loud noises. She is not sure about strangers but if you give her space she will come say hello when she is ready. For more on adopting her, click here.

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Residential real estate sales were down last month in the Kootenay-Boundary compared to the month before, but up compared to the same time last year.

The Association of Interior realtors says 193 homes changed hands in November, versus 300 in October. However, it represented a 0.5 per cent increase over November 2024.

There were also 254 new listings locally in November, down from 362 in October, but up 2.8 per cent compared to the same month the previous year.

Overall active listings in the Kootenays saw a one per cent increase compared to November 2024 with 1,394 listings recorded.

“Listing supply in the Kootenay region remains compressed, which is no surprise given the ongoing challenges in sustaining higher inventory levels in the region — perhaps a reflection of the area’s growing popularity,” Association of Interior Realtors president Kadin Rainville.

“It is positive to see that sales activity was largely on par with the same month last year, which should set up a solid handoff heading into 2026.”

The benchmark price, which realtors say is a better representation of value compared to the average or median price as it represents a home of typical attributes, saw percentage increases in the Kootenay region in the single-family, townhome and condominium categories compared to the same month of the previous year, of 1.8, 3.7 and 1.9 per cent respectively, coming in at $607,500, $501,100 and $323,700.

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Residential real estate sales were down last month in the Kootenay-Boundary compared to the month before, but up compared to the same time last year.

The Association of Interior realtors says 193 homes changed hands in November, versus 300 in October. However, it represented a 0.5 per cent increase over November 2024.

There were also 254 new listings locally in November, down from 362 in October, but up 2.8 per cent compared to the same month the previous year.

Overall active listings in the Kootenays saw a one per cent increase compared to November 2024 with 1,394 listings recorded.

“Listing supply in the Kootenay region remains compressed, which is no surprise given the ongoing challenges in sustaining higher inventory levels in the region — perhaps a reflection of the area’s growing popularity,” Association of Interior Realtors president Kadin Rainville.

“It is positive to see that sales activity was largely on par with the same month last year, which should set up a solid handoff heading into 2026.”

The benchmark price, which realtors say is a better representation of value compared to the average or median price as it represents a home of typical attributes, saw percentage increases in the Kootenay region in the single-family, townhome and condominium categories compared to the same month of the previous year, of 1.8, 3.7 and 1.9 per cent respectively, coming in at $607,500, $501,100 and $323,700.

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The City of Duncan has lifted a precautionary boil water advisory that had been in place since Monday.

In a notice, the city said the sewer main break that triggered the advisory has been fixed and Well No. 2 is being brought back online.

The decision follows the return of water-quality test results, allowing the city and Island Health to formally end the advisory.

The advisory was issued Monday after a sewer main break near McAdam Park caused untreated wastewater to leak.

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Local commuters will get some relief this weekend, according to the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) and the Comox Valley Sewer Conveyance Project.

Two-way traffic will resume on Comox Road and Comox Avenue at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, once contractors remove equipment and the detour route.

The CVRD warned that eastbound traffic on Comox Hill may be delayed during the removal process, though no delays are expected westbound.

At the same time, the intersection at 17th Street Bridge and Comox Avenue will revert to a three-way configuration, allowing the eastbound lane on Comox Road to reopen.

The district said this marks the end of road disruptions related to the sewer project. Work on pump-station construction and retrofits is expected to finish in 2026.

Pedestrians and cyclists will once again have two-way access on Comox Avenue and Comox Road. The CVRD noted that crossings on Comox Avenue have changed after the installation of roundabouts at Glacier View Drive and Rodello Street.

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   Bob Seguin is one of those residents.

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New artwork on Commercial Street in Nanaimo will brighten up the night. Sensing Nanaimo, a project by Amy Pye, features ten light-projected designs celebrating the city. 

“Public art has the power to change how we move through our city. Through Sensing Nanaimo, I aimed to create a series of small but meaningful moments, visual cues that encourage reflection, spark joy and deepen our connection to the places we share,” Pye said. 

The display is part of the city’s Design Commercial project. The city said the projections contribute to a collection of creative enhancements transforming Nanaimo’s public spaces. 

“Each illustration captures an iconic, sensory moment tied to the rhythms, landscapes and everyday magic of Nanaimo – from paddle-boarders on the harbour to the scent of cedar and coffee, to the warmth of local food and the echo of music downtown,” a city news release said. 

The new art pieces will be a permanent fixture on Commercial Street on either side of Bastion Street and can be seen after dark. 

“This unique public art project brings light, art and community together. Amy Pye’s work transforms Commercial Street into a sensory storybook – one that reflects who we are as a community and celebrates the joy and character of downtown Nanaimo,” said Jaime-Brett Sine, culture coordinator for the city. 

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The B.C. government has taken control of construction of the new Kootenay Lake ferry, citing problems with project delivery by the contractor, Western Pacific Marine.

In a statement to Vista Radio, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit said it exercised its step-in rights under the design-build contract and will manage completion of the vessel, now expected to be in service in 2027.

The project budget remains at $117-million, as outlined in the September 2024 project update, up from the original $62.9-million estimate. 

The ministry said the budget increase is largely due to the project’s complexity and remote location.

The vessel was originally scheduled for completion in 2023. 

Kootenay-Central MLA Brittny Anderson said in a Nov. 20 update that the project had reached “major milestones,” including dredging of the western arm of Kootenay Lake for navigational safety and upgrades to the Balfour and Kootenay Bay terminals. 

She said the vessel is about 75 per cent complete, although activity on the site has slowed while the ministry and design-builder resolve remaining challenges.

Her update did not detail what those challenges are. 

The ministry confirmed that it notified Western Pacific Marine on Nov. 10 that it was stepping in to complete the work.

Officials said a project management firm is being retained to work with existing subcontractors, and that the transition is underway. 

It added that construction over the past year has seen the new vessel’s hull and superstructure completed.

The project has now entered the outfitting phase, which the province said includes installation of mechanical, electrical and control systems and interior components.

This work also includes installation of auxiliary systems such as bilge and fire pumps and piping, as well as engine cooling, exhaust and mooring systems.

Work is also being done on the vehicle deck and interior spaces.

The project’s uniqueness is largely to blame for the delays, according to the ministry, which outlined several ways in which it is unique:

• Few large inland ferries have been built in B.C. in recent decades.
• Inland waterways are separated from coastal areas by dams, so ferries have historically been built onsite at temporary lakeside shipyards near their operating locations.
• Without permanent shipyard facilities, most steel work and all assembly occur outdoors, making progress subject to seasonal and environmental conditions.

In addition to these challenges, the ministry said there have been problems with project delivery by Western Pacific Marine.

Officials added that accountability measures were included in the project’s design-build contract to ensure the contractor is responsible for delivering the vessel within the agreed budget and scope.

The contract also provides the ministry with rights to take direct action to address events of default.

The province said it remains confident it can deliver an in-service date of 2027 while ensuring the vessel meets required standards.

“I know that community members, workers, and travellers have questions about the Kootenay Lake Ferry Service Improvements Project, including on timelines and contracts,” said Kootenay-Central MLA Brittny Anderson.

“I want to thank all the workers who are contributing to building this new ferry and thank the community for all your support for this project. Our government is committed to bringing this project to life, and I’m looking forward to riding the new vessel.”

Vista Radio reached out to Western Pacific Marine for comment on the ministry’s decision to exercise its step-in rights.

The company said its non-disclosure agreement with the ministry prevents it from providing a statement.

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The board of the Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce has announced that Lindsey Innes is its new membership specialist.

According to a chamber release, Innes is a relationship-focused professional with experience in supporting local businesses through events, sponsorships, member engagement and community initiatives.

“I’m thrilled to return to the Campbell River and District Chamber and reconnect with the incredible business community here,” she said. “Campbell River is such a vibrant, collaborative community, and I’m looking forward to helping strengthen relationships, expand membership and create meaningful value for businesses throughout the region.”

Innes is known for her work at Innes Arena, where she coordinated events, built partnerships and led fundraising. The chamber said she brings strong outreach skills, proven membership-growth experience and a community-first approach to her new role.

The appointment comes as the chamber bids farewell to executive director Mary Ruth Snyder, who served for more than six years.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Snyder led a district-wide Shop Local, Support Local initiative that the chamber credited with boosting support for small businesses.

“It has been a true honour to serve as the executive director for the last six years. I am absolutely thrilled with the selection of Lindsey Innes as membership specialist,” she said. “Her extensive experience, combined with the fact she was born and raised in Campbell River, will serve the whole community very well. In this challenging global atmosphere we now find ourselves in, local voices, local initiatives and local organizations have never been more important.”

The board is inviting the community to a Christmas social to welcome Innes on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Coast Discovery Inn, 975 Shoppers Row, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

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BC Hydro is advising the public of increased water flows down Elk Falls Canyon and the lower Campbell River starting Friday, Dec. 5.

According to a BC Hydro release, one of the John Hart powerhouse’s three generating units will be offline for maintenance, while the other two remain at full output.

Water flows will increase from four cubic metres per second to about 45 m³/s at Elk Falls Canyon through Friday, Dec. 12. During this time, flows in the lower Campbell River will rise from 85 m³/s to approximately 125 m³/s.

“We are advising the public to please stay away from the water flow, particularly upstream of Elk Falls,” the release said. “The falls can be viewed safely from the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge.”

Safety signage warning of high flows will be placed around the Elk Falls Canyon area for the duration of the maintenance period.

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The Comox Valley Regional District is celebrating the start of construction for the new Union Bay Fire Hall.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the future fire hall site to mark the official start of construction.

The project carries a budget of $6.3 million, funded through the Canada Community Building Fund, B.C.’s Growing Communities Fund, and more than $2.7 million in long-term borrowing. Funding breakdown:

• $2.3 million — Canada Community Building Fund
• $1.7 million — Area A
• $200,000 — Area B
• $400,000 — Area C
• $1.195 million — Growing Communities Fund
• $50,000 — Reserves
• $2.755 million — Long-term borrowing

Union Bay Fire Rescue chief Ian Hamm attended the ceremony and called the milestone the result of nearly three decades of effort.

“Today marks a milestone of nearly three decades in the making,” he said. “For close to 30 years, our community and this department have worked, planned, and hoped for a new fire hall that meets the needs of the people we serve. Seeing construction finally begin is more than just a building going up, it’s a commitment to safety, resilience, and the future of our region. I’m incredibly proud of our members, grateful to our community, and honoured to witness this long-awaited project become a reality.”

The new hall will replace the existing facility, which was built in 1956.

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Greg Patterson retired last month after 35 years with the Tarrys Fire Department, including the last 23 as chief. We spoke to him about his long career and his decision to leave.

How did you get into the fire service? 

It started in 1990. I was carpooling with a firefighter from Robson and saw what he was doing. It sounded like it would be a good thing to do. So I joined on with Ootischenia. They didn’t have a department at that point. We were just preparing and getting trained by Robson. A year later, I moved over to the Tarrys area and joined their fire department.

Who did you take over from as chief? 

The chief at the time was Ian Roy, and he was in the position probably for only for about a year. Our previous chief was Ralph Merriman, who passed away in 2001. 

What are some of your more memorable incidents? 

We’ve had some larger fires. One was the Tarrys school [in 2005], which was not a school at that at that time. It was offices for the Southeast Fire Centre. And then we’ve had, of course, several motor vehicle accidents over the years. That seems to be a rough stretch between Castlegar and Playmor Junction. Some pretty serious [crashes] that stay with you, unfortunately. But it’s nice to be able to be part of the team that could help people out in their time of emergency. 

If you look back at when you started as a firefighter, what have been the greatest change? What is different about being a firefighter today versus back then?

Oh boy, the training was a lot different. Back then it was more practical, hands-on. Nowadays, it’s academic and hands-on, a combination of both, but it’s a lot more testing, written tests, practical testing. A firefighter coming in nowadays is expected to try to get as close as you can to your full service level, which is the expectation of the province. So it requires a lot more. As far as the calls, pretty much the same there, other than they probably have increased because we have a greater population. 

What is the make-up of the department today? Have most of the members been at it for many years or are they a relatively young department or a bit of both? 

We have a pretty good mix. We’ve got firefighters ranging from one who joined last week to the longest there now going on 44 years. One will reach 40 years in January. I retired at 35, another is still there at 35 years. And then we have everything in between: several around the five year mark, several at 10 years, 15 years. So it’s a mix of experience and some newer ones coming up. 

Oh wow, I just assumed you would have been the longest serving, but not even.

No, we have one who started when the fire hall opened in 1982. 

How much of a time investment is it to be chief of a rural department? 

I would guesstimate 25 hours a week, just with administration, and then calls and practices would be beyond that. So there’s quite a bit involved. Some halls have changed over to being halftime fire chiefs, so 17½ hours a week, and some need to put in at least that amount of time every week just to keep things rolling. 

And you’ve had another job on top of that?  

I retired from Service Canada in 2013, and then I have a handyman business that I do on a half-time basis. It would be a challenge for somebody to carry on a full-time job and do the fire chief’s [job]. They wouldn’t have much spare time for themselves. 

Are you stepping down only as chief or are you leaving the fire department altogether? 

I decide to leave the fire department altogether. Not an easy decision because I know I’m going to miss it. But I’m going to let the new chief officers take it from here. I may reconsider and apply to come back as a firefighter. But we’ll see. We’ve got lots of things planned, my wife and I. We’ll see where it goes from here. 

Why did you decide now is the time to go?

It’s just that I’m getting on in years, and we want to do some other things such as traveling. That’s something you can’t do for any length of the time when you are a chief. 

Anything else you’d like to add? 

It’s been a very good career. I totally enjoyed it. I’ve met a lot of good people, helped a lot of people. The firefighters are awesome. They give up a lot of their time to help our community. And it’s kudos back to them for doing that. I’m not going out because I’m hating it, it’s just time to do something different.  

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A need for photos of Tchesinkut Lake turned into a contest with the winner being announced on Monday.

The Great Tchesinkuit Lake Photo Contest was put on by the Tchesinkut Watershed Protection Society.

“We were talking to Costal Gas Link and TC Energy, and discussing general things when we mentioned wanting to get some data on the lake out to the public and they said they could maybe help,” said President Ronald Miller.

He added the photo was wanted to be used for publicity in a letterhead and logos.

The contest ran through the month of October with 65 submissions being made.

“The comments I got is people were happy to do this and think we’re going to have a really good display of photos,” said Miller.

While submissions have closed, he has thought about the possibility of running a similar contest next year.

“I’m not sure yet what we’re going to do next year but its a possibility.”

All the submissions will be on display at the Heritage Church Monday evening from 6:00 to 7:30.

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Ulkatcho’ten’s new Dayi(Chief) has officially accepted the role.

Derech(k) Sill, the CAO, said in a statement released on Wednesday, December 3, that he “is honoured to accept the role of Dayi” after the now former Dayi Nelson (Charlie) Wilson officially stepped down on December 2.

In accordance with Ulkatcho’s Custom Election Code, when a Dayi steps down, the runner-up in the election is offered the role. With Sill accepting the role, he will be Dayi for the remainder of the term, which started in April 2025.

Sill said in the statement that there will be a transition period over the next few months, though his priorities are to ensure there are no disruptions to programs and services for the Ulkatcho’ten community.

Ulkatcho is also appointing Nancy LaPlante as acting CAO, in the short term, until a new one is hired.

Dayi Sill says interim timelines and the transfer of responsibility will be finalized over the next month and into the New Year.

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Nelson city council has approved the first three readings of a bylaw to permanently close a portion of Cottonwood Street in Fairview to accommodate a land-swap agreement.

The closure will affect the portion of the Cottonwood Street right of way behind the tennis courts.

A nine-metre-wide path will be retained for pedestrian and utility access.

The closure is part of a land-swap agreement announced in December 2024 involving the exchange of city-owned land in Fairview for a property owned by a developer at the end of Trevor Street.

To complete the land exchange, the identified section of road allowance had to be permanently closed by bylaw, which council approved on Dec. 2.

City staff told councillors that Cottonwood Street is considered too steep to meet the city’s road grades.

“I think it’s [the road grade] is 19 per cent plus. That very top portion that’s very steep after LVR is actually closed in the winter. So it’s not a road that we want people using and accessing,” said Natalie Andrijancic, development services manager.

“But a nine-metre-wide corridor will still remain. There’ll be utilities under that and a pathway so that people can walk down from Trevor Street or bike down, but it won’t be open for vehicles.”

A civic document says the land-exchange agreement required the developer to construct an emergency-egress road connecting Trevor Street to Davies Street, providing a secondary access route for more than 100 homes in the Trevor and Selby Street area.

This enhanced emergency response, wildfire resilience and evacuation safety.

The agreement also included a new multi-use path and parkland.

The city said the developer is phasing in about 20 R1 low-density residential lots, with the first nine lots already paved.

The emergency-egress road is now functional and gated, and the remaining sections of the roadway will be paved as development progresses.

The closure will come into affect in the new year, after being adopted by council.

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Patients in G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital’s third floor are getting a long-awaited quality of life upgrade in their rooms.

34 new TVs are being installed in the third-floor patient rooms, with the first one going up today, Thursday, December 4.

“It’s been almost two years that we’ve been waiting for this to be done, and now it’s finally happening,” says Louis Beaulieu, the President of the Quesnel Hospital Auxiliary.

“This one, going up to today, will test out to see how long it will take to set one up. As it is a big process to take the patient out, vent and sanitize the rooms, and then do all the work to install the TVs. And only one technician is doing all the work for the 34 TVs.”

The Auxiliary organized and put in the initial funding, but with the help of the Quesnel Community Foundation, the Lions Club, as well as other community organizations, donated money to complete this TV replacement project. The total project came in just shy of $18,000, and Andre’s Electronics supplied and is installing the TVs.

The new TVs are up-to-date and modern 27″ sets. A much needed upgrade from the old box-style, 15″ TVs that are currently in the rooms, which Beaulieu says patients have been using since the early 90s.

“We’re very happy about this getting done, it’s something we have wanted to do for a long time, and it’s going to provide a better stay and some more comfort for the patients on the third floor,” Beaulieu said.

With the first one going up today, the remaining 33 will be installed throughout the winter season.

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Cranbrook won’t be rock and rolling this summer due to the financial risk of hosting Rock the Kootenays.

Hosting the festival would involve the city committing nearly $700,000 of taxpayer funds.

That would have to be recouped through ticket sales, vendor fees and sponsorships.

However, last year’s festival saw declining sales a lower attendance, council has decided to cancel next year’s event.

“The challenges were very clear during the lead-up to the 2025 festival. One month before the event, we were looking at a potential $200,000 loss of City funds due to slow ticket sales,” said recreation and culture director Trevor Thors.

“While the final loss was thankfully limited to just over $14,000, the gap clearly showed us how unpredictable the market has become. Artist fees and production costs continue to rise faster than ticket prices can reasonably keep up.”

Council determined they couldn’t justify the cost with economic uncertainty expected to continue in 2026.

The city will look for other future concert and event opportunities.

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Police in Cranbrook had their work cut out for them with 461 calls for service in the second half of November.

That included six break and enter calls, 26 motor vehicle accidents and 21 thefts.

The detachment also responded to the train derailment near Fenwick Road off Wardner Fort Steele Road.

Police worked with Canadian Pacific Kansas City to secure the site, set up roadblocks and conduct evacuations following a propane leak.

Officers also arrested a man for stealing a tablet that is used for DoorDash from a local business.

Police said the suspect turned his coat inside out as a disguise, but was soon found and the tablet was recovered.

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The Fernie Chamber of Commerce saw record-breaking attendance this past weekend during its annual #SpendItInFernie campaign.

The three-day event officially kicked off this year’s holiday season, with more than 57 local businesses welcoming residents and visitors in on the festive fun. 

Saturday’s downtown celebration acted as the main event, featuring a pedestrian-friendly wither gathering space with three craft fair locations.  The event’s festivities included accessible rides from Cycling Without Ages, Fernie Community Carolers, a special visit from the Griz and of course hot chocolate. 

Island Lake Lodge won the contest for best-decorated window display. The evening closed with performances by Fernie Academy’s Grade 11 class and a finale of Big Bang Fireworks.

The #SpendItInFernie campaign saw record participation for their draw of $1,000 worth of gift certificates from partaking business or two Fernie Alpine Resort lift tickets. Organizers reported 1,144 entries, representing $119,453 in local spending.

The Fernie Chamber thanked its partners and the community for showing up and supporting local businesses. Chamber executive director Wendy McDougall said the event was an excellent festive start to the season.

“Having the Holiday Kickoff fall on Small Business Saturday this year was perfect.  Both are all about celebrating the local businesses that make Fernie thrive. Their impact goes far beyond what they sell. They create meaningful jobs, donate to local causes, support local suppliers, invest in our economy, and keep dollars circulating right here at home. Fernie is unique in that you often meet the owners behind the counter and you can feel their passion for making this community vibrant and prosperous.” Said McDougall. 

The Fernie Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that supports nearly 300 members through advocacy, economic development, and business programs such as the #SpendItInFernie campaign.

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The qathet Regional District is warning residents of possible service interruptions at the Lund Recycling Depot while work is carried out on the Lund Community Centre.

The recycling depot will be relocated temporarily to the southern end of the site to allow for grading of the parking lot.

The regional district said disruptions could continue until late March.

“Once the grading has been completed, staff will evaluate the location of the Lund Recycling Depot and will work with the contractors to determine the depot’s temporary home on site until the new, permanent Lund Recycling Depot is built,” the release said.

Residents are advised to watch the regional district’s website and social media for updates.

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Fuel management work is underway around Elkford, and the burning of debris piles has begun.

Burning operations will take place during daylight hours on weekdays. Crews will only conduct burns on good or fair venting conditions.

District staff said the burns are being done by trained professionals and there is no risk to the public.

A 50-metre no-burn zone extends from the rear of residents’ properties where FireSmart work is being carried out. Material in that area will be taken to the Sparwood Transfer Station.

Work is expected to carry through the winter.

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The Vancouver Island marmot is seeing its most promising population boost in years.

New data from the Marmot Recovery Foundation shows roughly 427 marmots now surviving in the wild — a dramatic turnaround for one of Canada’s most endangered mammals, which dropped to fewer than 30 animals more than two decades ago.

Officials said the improvement comes from decades of recovery efforts, including captive-breeding, habitat restoration and carefully planned reintroductions across Vancouver Island’s mountain ranges.

Current monitoring shows growing populations on Mount Washington, around the Nanaimo Lakes area and in Strathcona Provincial Park.

While the latest survey is being celebrated as a major milestone, experts warn the species remains vulnerable to predation and habitat loss, meaning long-term support is still essential.

“Recovery efforts have made a substantial difference to the marmot population, but there continue to be large fluctuations in the population,” said the foundation.

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The endangered Vancouver Island marmot is showing its strongest recovery signs in decades, according to new numbers released by the Marmot Recovery Foundation.

The latest population survey estimates 427 marmots now living in the wild. It marks a dramatic improvement for the species, which saw its numbers fall to fewer than 30 animals in the early 2000s.

The foundation says years of coordinated recovery work have contributed to the growth. Captive breeding, habitat restoration, and ongoing re-introduction efforts have helped rebuild colonies across multiple mountain ranges. Monitoring teams are reporting expanding populations on Mount Washington, the Nanaimo Lakes region, and within Strathcona Provincial Park.

While the update is being celebrated as a significant milestone, experts caution that the marmot remains critically endangered. Predators and continued habitat pressures still pose risks, and long-term conservation efforts are expected to continue for years.

The recovery foundation says this year’s count is the most encouraging snapshot to date, offering renewed optimism for one of Canada’s rarest mammals.

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Brink Forest Products is executing a three-week shut down at its Prince George, Vanderhoof and Houston sawmills.

CEO John Brink told Vista Radio there are a trio of reasons for the temporary shut down.

“We have paid duties since 2017 to the tune of 80-million dollars from our companies. The reasons are in public forest policies in B.C., a lack of access to fibre and then on top of all of that duties through the United States.”

“Now, we are to the point where we can no longer compete or continue under the current circumstance. We will go down temporarily starting on December the 11th until the 6th of January where we will re-evaluate and figure out how we go forward.”

Brink noted this is just the second time in the company’s history, they have to make such a tough decision.

“We only slowed down once and that is when the river flooded back in 2008 for about three months otherwise we have been running steadily. Gradually in the last six months, we have reduced our operations to about 25% of the volume.”

The temporary closure impacts between 75 and 80 workers.

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Nanaimo RCMP are asking the public for help locating a man who has been missing for a week. 

Forty-five-year-old Robert Silva was last seen on Nov. 27. Police said it is out of character for him not to contact his family. 

He is described as Indigenous, five feet 10 inches tall and about 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. 

Nanaimo RCMP asks anyone with information to contact its non-emergency line. 

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Emergency room services at the Lakes District Hospital is closed today (Thursday) due to staffing challenges.

According to Northern Health, the disruption started at 7:00 a.m. with serves expected to start again at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow.

Anyone experiencing life threatening emergencies like chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding is asked to call 9-1-1.

For non-urgent care, you can contact your primary care provider, the Northern Health Virtual Clinic, or 8-1-1 if you’re unsure.

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John Rustad said he is resigning as Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia and as Leader of the official Opposition.

“I am proud of what we have built and proud of the team of Conservative MLAs who now represent communities across British Columbia,” said Rustad in the release Thursday morning.

The announcement came a day after the party said a majority of the caucus no longer had confidence in Rustad’s leadership and he had been removed as party leader.

It said Surrey–White Rock MLA Trevor Halford was selected as interim leader in a caucus vote, and a leadership race will take place.

The party statement followed the release of a letter by a lawyer representing more than half of Conservative caucus members, informing party President Aisha Estey they have lost confidence in Rustad as a leader.

The letter, signed by 20 unnamed MLAs, called for Rustad to step down and be replaced by an interim leader.

Rustad had said immediately following the news on Wednesday that he had no plans to step down. But now he says he’s bowing out.

“I know many are concerned by what they saw yesterday, but I want to assure every member and supporter of the caucus and the party that this was not a hostile takeover by BC Liberals. We remain a Conservative party, committed to a vision of a common-sense Conservative government in BC,” said Rustad.

More to come.

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Conservation Officers have safely captured four additional grizzly bears in Bella Coola.

According to their Facebook post, they said animal evidence is being collected from the bears and they will await test results from a forensics lab to determine if any of the bears were involved in the attack.

“Four other grizzly bears captured in Bella Coola last week were successfully released, which forensic evidence confirmed were not associated with the attack,” Conservation Officers Service said, “The bears were relocated to an undisclosed location within their home range, far from the community, in coordination with wildlife biologists and the Provincial wildlife veterinarian.”

Conservation Officers remain in Bella Coola monitoring bear activity as the investigation into the attack continues and will respond as necessary to ensure public safety.

Residents are asked to avoid the 4 Mile area, stay indoors, and not search for any bears themselves.

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Sparwood council has approved which community groups will get money under the 2026 Community Funding and Support allocations.

It includes $2,000 for Youth Action Sparwood and $3,368 to the Sparwood and District Arts & Heritage Council for facility rentals.

Meanwhile, Sparwood Trails Alliance would receive $10,000 for trail development.

Councillor Steve Kallies said it works well because the groups are run by residents who ultimately pay the taxes.

“What works out well is that every one of these groups are taxpayers and they’re asking for it,” he said.

“I don’t know if they appreciate the repercussions and that it hits them at home as well though.”

The full list of groups can be found here.

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2025 will go down as the quietest year for wildlife in the Castlegar area in recent memory.

WildSafeBC co-ordinator Tara Pejski presented her year-end wrap up to city council this week. It’s the fourth year Pejski has been with the organization, and she described it as a “really successful” one.

Pejski presented wildlife reporting stats dating back to 2017, although she said the system has changed over that time.

From 2017-22, WildSafeBC had an internal system where people could report a wildlife sighting online. Between 2017-22, black bear reports ranged from a low of 105 in 2019 to a high of 231 in 2021. Grizzly bear reports ranged from two in 2019 to 20 in 2018. Total wildlife reporting (which also included deer, cougar, elk, coyotes, and other animals) ranged from 163 in 2019 to 317 in 2021.

However, some glitches in the system meant no data is available for 2023. WildSafeBC has since relied on statistics from the BC Conservation Service, which showed in 2024 there were 96 black bear and zero grizzly bear reports, with a total of 154 overall wildlife sightings. This year, there have been 46 black bear reports, six grizzly reports, and 126 overall wildlife sightings.

However, Pejski suspects many people are less likely to report certain animal sightings to conservation officers, because they are under the misimpression that it will automatically lead to the animal being killed.

“That said, we did have really great berry crops up in the mountains. And so across the province, activity in general was a lot quieter than it usually is.”

WildSafeBC tags garbage bins that are put out too early for collection, and those numbers were down too: 81 residential bins and 14 commercial bins tagged in 2025, compared to 140 residential bins and 34 commercial bins tagged in 2024. The number of tickets issued, however, increased to 14 this year from 10 last year.

Pejski said in general Castlegar residents are doing a good job securing their garbage, but there is room for improvement with organics carts and recycle bins.

“A lot of people think, it’s okay to put my organic bin out because it’s just yard waste without realizing that bears don’t know that it’s just yard waste until they rip it open,” she said. “And there’s still a lot of yard waste that is a tasty meal for them.”

Pejski said recycle bins often include food containers that retain smells that bears can detect, even after they are cleaned.

She added the Harvest Match program, which pairs up people who have fruit trees with people who are willing to pick fruit, also had a successful year.

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The appearance of chronic wasting disease in the Okanagan is raising concerns and curiosity among wildlife researchers.

The disease had previously been confined to the Kootenay region, which has been dealing with CWD since January 2024.

Kaylee Byers, an assistant professor and co-lead of a research project on deer population genomics at Simon Fraser University, said the detection of CWD near Enderby, outside the original Kootenay cluster, is concerning.

“Up until now, all confirmed cases were clustered around Cranbrook. Seeing cases further away suggests there could be wider movement of the disease than we previously thought,” she said.

CWD, sometimes called “zombie deer disease,” is 100 per cent fatal in infected animals. It has devastated deer populations in other areas across North America.

Byers’ team is studying deer populations using population genomics, a method she said analyzes DNA to understand how animals move and interact, and how CWD could spread across the province.

“One of the biggest challenges to managing diseases like chronic wasting disease is just understanding the scale at which you need to enact management,” said Byers.

“That’s because spread of the disease is very much related to how far these animals move. So how do you study the movement of these animals? One way to do that is something called population genomics.”

Population genomics, as described by Byers, involves taking tissue samples from animals in the affected region, sequencing their DNA and to look at how each animal is related to each other.

“Based off of those similarities in DNA, those genetic relationships, we can infer how far animals move,” noted Byers.

Using DNA samples from more than 1,200 mule deer collected so far, Byers and her team have been looking to determine the genomic relationships that help predict movement patterns, providing insight into what could influence the disease’s spread.

This research relies heavily on hunters and local Indigenous communities to provide samples.

Byers said these samples not only allow for genomic analysis but also can be tested for CWD to monitor where it might appear next.

The case in Enderby is called a “non-negative case.” Official test results confirming the presence of CWD have yet to be released.

If it is positive, Byers said it could indicate wider spread that what the province initially thought.

“If I were to have expected another case to have come up, I would have expected to see these non-negative cases coming up closer to where we already have established cases,” said Byers.

However, she noted that the ability to map the full extent of its spread has been reliant on the number of samples submitted.

“Our best sampling is in the Kootenay region because we have mandatory testing so we have the best ability to detect new cases there. So it’s possible that we will see cases in other regions and maybe we just haven’t caught them yet.”

Byers and her team are about a year into the study.

The information gathered aims to help stakeholders and provincial officials predict where the disease could spread, scale management efforts, and develop targeted strategies to protect healthy populations.

“The project will give us some immediate understanding of the ecology of these animals, which can be implemented sort of immediately into current response plans and helping to scale management efforts,” explained Byers.

She added that the project also explores how to integrate genomics sustainably within existing management efforts.

“We’re also working to identify what are the resource needs, what are the challenges, what are the opportunities for implementing genomics long term as part of municipal or provincial management and response.”

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The South Cariboo Health Foundation’s Starry Nights Fundraiser received a big financial boost.

“Richard Bullen our Health Foundation President accepted a cheque from Ray Carlson President of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 260 in the amount of $10,000” Public Relations and Fundraiser Coordinator Danielle Sabiston said.

The Legion has made several donations over the past few years to this annual event that raises money to buy equipment for the 100 Mile District General Hospital.

“I know last year they gave about half that amount which was very generous,” Sabiston said, “This year they decided that the Ultra Sound Machine for the Emergency Department was something they really wanted to get behind and they were able to use some Gaming Funds to make an extra large donation to us. And with the Legion’s donation we are about on par from where we were at this time last year.”

This year’s goal for the South Cariboo Health Foundations Starry Nights Fundraiser is $130,000 for 10 Tilt chairs, an ask from Long Term Care, and the Ultra Sound Machine, which Sabiston said it’s technology is up-to-date so it will interface with different operations and will be a better use for staff time, also helping for a quicker turnaround on diagnostic results.

“We’re a small community yet year after year people open their wallets and open their hearts. They like to help their friends and their neighbours. It really is a great place to live and I really want to thank the Legion and all our donors out there, big and small, every little bit is appreciated.”

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British Columbia will establish a new organization next spring to bring administrative and corporate services from across all health authorities into one office. 

Health Minister Josie Osborne said Wednesday the move was informed by the province’s ongoing review of health authorities, which is expected to be completed early next year. 

She said the new standalone shared services organization will help reduce redundancies across the health system and help authorities share ideas and best practices.

Currently, the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) provides some shared services, but Osborne said not every authority has opted to join into the services, leading to inefficiencies. She said all health authorities will be required to participate in this new organization.

Osborne said the PHSA will remain focused on providing province-wide services like cancer care. 

The new organization would handle services like legal, supply chain, finance and human resources. The province said services will be gradually transitioned to the new organization.

“The governance structure will be set up in a way that local and regional voices are valued, because we know that communities know their needs best and need to be heard at tables like these,” said Osborne.

It’s not yet clear where the new services organization will be located, how many staff it will have, or even what it will be called.

The province said 1,100 positions have been eliminated, closed or left vacant since the health authorities review began in March.

Osborne said that’s expected to save the province about $60 million in the next fiscal year.  She said other measures taken by health authorities to cut spending have resulted in savings of about $260 million this year.

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Nelson’s pre-treated organics program is helping residents reduce food waste, according to a new report. 

City staff provided council with an update on the organics program on Tuesday, Dec. 2. 

The program launched in 2023 as part of the city’s climate action plan. By July 2025, 2,400 FoodCycler appliances had been distributed to participating households. 

The report said nearly all participants surveyed (98 per cent) reported actively using their FoodCycler, with many noticing changes in their household waste habits. 

On average, the report said FoodCycler households have reduced organic waste in their garbage from 39 per cent to 26 per cent. 

Repairs were generally low, particularly for newer units.  

Staff said earlier models experienced higher repair rates, with the first 1,600 handed out having roughly a 15 per cent annual repair rate, while newer units required repairs for only four per cent. 

Staff also noted that each appliance comes with a warranty covering repair and maintenance and that the units are set to be fully recycled at the end of their usable life. 

As part of the program, an education campaign was launched to help residents maximize diversion.  

Surveys showed that one third of participants were high-engagement households, regularly diverting the majority of their food waste with the appliance. 

These households, according to the report, had only 18 per cent of food waste remaining in their garbage, compared to 41 per cent before the pilot and 26 per cent for regular FoodCycler households. 

A waste audit conducted in Fairview, the initial pilot neighbourhood, showed households without FoodCyclers had nearly 39 per cent of food in their garbage, while households using the appliance reduced that to 26 per cent. 

Garbage generation in the neighbourhood is estimated at 250 to 300 kilograms per household per year. 

Council has been asked to consider a city-wide program. Financially, staff said the program compares favourably with a traditional green-cart program. 

The total annual cost for garbage, recycling, and organics under either program option is similar, at around $1.5million.

A city-wide rollout of the pre-treated organics program would see the city purchase an additional 1,900 appliances. 

Council deferred the decision on a city-wide rollout to a later meeting. 

You can read the full report here. 

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College of the Rockies’ Creston campus extends a warm welcome to Vanessa Lozecznik as the new manager of Workforce Development and Campus Operations. 

Lozecznick, who’s lived and worked in Creston Valley for over a decade, has built a strong reputation for creating inclusive, sustainable educational and community programs. 

Lozecznick has served 11 years as Program Coordinator for Community Action Plan for Children (CAPC) at Valley Community Services Society.  She manages multi-site programming, coordinating staff, volunteers, and partners across six East Kootenay communities.  Lozecznick also serves as a Prevention Specialist with Gambling Support BC and has experience as the Healthy Foods Project Coordinator for Northern Association of Community Councils from 2011-2014.  During her time there she planned and executed food security initiatives across 26 Indigenous and Métis communities. 

Lozecznick attended the University of Manitoba where she earned a Master of Natural Resources Management degree.  After graduation her research focused on adult transformative learning in marginalized rural communities.  Lorecznik is excited to begin this new journey with the college.

“I’m looking forward to supporting the diverse needs of our learners in Creston and building strong, meaningful relationships with stakeholders to help create a vibrant and welcoming campus.”  said Lozecznik.

Lozecznik’s expertise and experience aligns with College of the Rockies’ focus on community connection and lifelong learning.

She is available at the Creston campus three days per week.

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Both rural and urban Nelson residents will see their utility bills rise in the new year as city council adopts its hydro rate increases and approves the first three readings of its water, wastewater and resource recovery fees for 2026.

Hydro

Rural Nelson Hydro customers are set to see the largest increase, with council approving a 15.98 per cent hike for 2026.

For a typical household using 100 kilowatt hours of power per month, the rural increase would equal about $11 more per month in 2026.

Nelson Hydro said the rural jump is largely tied to regulatory and cost-of-service requirements that are beyond the utility’s control.

Urban customers will see a smaller increase of 7.83 per cent.

For a typical household using 100 kilowatt hours of power per month, the rural increase would equal about $10.78 per month more per month in 2026.

Council adopted both hydro rate changes on Tuesday, Dec. 2. They’ll take effect in January.

Water, sewage and garbage fees

Council also signed off on increases to water, wastewater and resource recovery, approving the first three readings of the bylaw.

The changes include a $25 hike to the annual resource recovery fee, raising it from $150 to $175.

Water rates will rise by five per cent to reflect inflationary costs, along with an additional three per cent increase to support infrastructure upgrades.

For a single-family dwelling, the annual water bill will increase from $423.90 to $458.10, a $34.20 jump.

Wastewater fees follow a similar pattern: a 2.2 per cent inflationary increase and an additional three per cent to fund major capital work identified in the city’s liquid waste management plan.

For the average single-family home, that works out to an annual increase of $40.50, from $786.60 to $827.10.

Altogether, the total bill for water, wastewater and resource recovery for a typical household will rise from $1,360.50 to $1,460.20 after discount, a $99.70 increase, or about $8.31 per month.

These rates will return to council for adoption at a later meeting.

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The City of Duncan is offering more clarity after issuing a precautionary boil-water advisory Monday for users of its water system.

City crews reported a sewer force-main break last Friday on Al Wilson Grove, after residents noticed unusual pooling on the road. Staff notified the B.C. Ministry of Environment and worked overnight until repairs were complete.

As a precaution, Well Number Two — located about 42 metres from the break — was shut off immediately and remains offline. Island Health later directed the city to issue the boil-water advisory while a two-sample test is completed.

“Although the city is confident that the water supply was not contaminated, a two-sample testing process is required to verify the safety of the water distribution system,” said a city statement.

Results from the city’s tests are expected Thursday afternoon, when the advisory may be lifted.

The water system serves roughly 14,000 people across several jurisdictions; residents who receive water from other providers are not affected.

Chief administrative officer Peter de Verteuil credited local residents for reporting the leak and urged the public to report any unusual conditions — however minor.

“We are extremely proud of the fast action of our Public Works crew in responding to these events,” he said. “We are thankful to the residents that reported the unusual accumulations of water so that we could respond. We encourage anyone who notices unusual conditions in the city to contact us as soon as possible, no matter how minor it may appear to be. When on site repairing the sewer force-main break, crews were advised that neighbours had noticed the leak several days prior but had not reported it. Please don’t assume we already are aware, or that we are monitoring community Facebook pages.”

The sewer line involved is more than 1,000 metres long and was originally installed in the 1970s. A replacement project scheduled for 2028 will be moved forward to 2026.

The city said updates on the advisory will be issued through Cowichan Alert and the Alertable app.

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The B.C. Conservative party says John Rustad is out as party leader, just hours after Rustad said he wouldn’t bow to mounting calls for him to step down.

The party said in a release early Wednesday afternoon that a majority of the caucus no longer has confidence in Rustad’s leadership and he has been removed as party leader.

It said the party’s board of directors passed a motion saying Rustad is “professionally incapacitated” and unable to continue in the role.

“The Conservative Party would like to extend its deepest gratitude to John Rustad, who led our party into its ascendance and made history. We wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter,” the statement said.

The statement said Surrey–White Rock MLA Trevor Halford was selected as interim leader in a caucus vote, and a leadership race will take place.

“We’re trying to figure out what that means,” said Halford Wednesday. “I’m going to respect this process going forward.” Halford said he’d have more to say soon on the matter.

However, Rustad told reporters following the announcement that he’ll remain on as leader, saying “nothing has changed.”

In a social media post, Rustad said he’s “not going anywhere.”

“A political party’s board can throw around whatever creative terminology they like, ‘professional incapacitation’? Give me a break. Let me be clear : That’s not a constitutional mechanism,” said the post from Rustad.

According to the party’s constitution, a leader can only be removed by resignation, death, incapacitation or a leadership review vote resulting in less than 50 per cent support from party members.

Rustad survived a leadership review over the summer with the support of more than 70 per cent of members who voted in ridings across the province.

The party statement came out just hours after the release of a letter by a lawyer representing more than half of Conservative caucus members, informing party President Aisha Estey they have lost confidence in Rustad as a leader.

The letter, signed by 20 unnamed MLAs, called for Rustad to step down and be replaced by an interim leader.

Some Conservative MLAs who spoke to reporters on their way into Question Period Wednesday said they still consider Rustad to be party leader.

Kelowna Centre’s Christina Loewen said it’s her understanding there was a vote among some caucus members, but not all participated.

Reann Gasper, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, said the move by her Conservative colleagues is “out of order” and called it disappointing.

Abbotsford West MLA Korky Neufeld and Langley-Willowbrook’s Jody Toor, who is also the Official Opposition Caucus Chair, both also threw their support behind Rustad.

MLA for Kamloops Centre MLA Peter Milobar said Halford had been appointed as Opposition Leader, saying “we’ll move forward from there.”

Skeena MLA Claire Rattée said in a statement Wednesday afternoon she supported the vote of non-confidence in Rustad’s leadership. 

“In recent months, it has become abundantly clear that John lost the confidence of caucus, donors, and many supporters in my riding,” says Rattée. 

In October, the Rustad faced a call from the party management committee to step down.

The letter dated Oct. 21 and signed by the party’s president Aisha Estey and six other members of the management committee said the party has seen “an unprecedented level of turmoil” since the provincial election last October.

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Shy of a million dollars in the City of Williams Lake’s Capital Projects program was cut from its proposed 2026 budget in an attempt to reach the City Council’s target tax increase.

$850,000 was cut out of a proposed $2.83 million shortfall in the budget, talked about in the December 2 City Council Meeting.

Mayor Surinderpal Rathor says the City Council will now wait for a new staff report detailing a new proposed budget and potential tax increase on residents. This will be discussed in an upcoming Council and Community Meeting on December 9.

“ It will depend on whether Council wants to raise a minimum taxation or they wanna go to 0% as they agreed,” says Mayor Rathor. “Or they wanna use the reserves, but there’s a caution in using the reserve. There are a number of options, and I cannot predict how the council is going to decide.”

The third option listed by City Staff, other than raising taxes and using the reserves, was to propose more cuts to reach the Council’s “target” taxation of “zero per cent.”

In December 3’s meeting, City Council cut three Capital Projects to try and get the tax rate down.

$240,000 in a Boitanio Park Upgrade of its irigation system new the main stage so the area would have no more brown grass was deferred until next year.

$600,000 in a traffic light project at the intersection of South Lakeside and Hodgson Road was deferred. City Staff recommended the project’s deferral due to new evidence from ICBC on what traffic system may or may not be needed, and City Staff wanted to wait until a Traffic Control Engineer could consult and give a recommendation.

$10,000 in an Airport Terminal Building Upgrade was also removed.

The current shortfall is now an estimated $1,982,824.

During the meeting $50,000, which was saved and allocated to the design phase of a pickleball court, was deferred to be reconsidered in the upcoming budget.

The majority of Council, except Councillor Scott Nelson, voted to defer the $50,000 as the overall pickleball court project could fit better in being handled through the New Parks and Recreation Master Plan introduced in 2026’s budget for $150,000.

The City Council is also waiting until it has a meeting with the Williams Lake First Nation and community partners, such as the CRD, to discuss a “smart” location for a court and the possibilities of sharing the costs of infrastructure construction for the park. The $50,000 could be reallocated into the 2026 budget depending on the conversations’ outcomes.

“Based on how our committee has lost, and what the forecast is for the future in and around the municipality of City of Williams Lake, we are trying to fine-tune our budget,” Mayor Rathor said.

“Things can’t be a true ‘zero per cent’, but  my vote would be, I never support a five, 10, or 15 per cent tax increase. But if we can keep the reserves, and get a one, one and a half, or 2% tax increase, I have no issue.”

The Mayor and Council will have another meeting to see the re-revised proposed budget, and hear feedback and concerns from the community which of the three options on how to handle the budget they will move forward with, before a final decision is made.

The meeting will be held on December 9, at 3 p.m. at City Hall.

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Environment Canada said freezing rain is expected to begin to this evening (December 3) continuing until early tomorrow (Thursday) morning for the Chilcotin and communities along Highway 97 from Clinton to Lac La Hache.

Environment Canada said periods of snow mixed with freezing rain is expected to begin this evening for the Chilcotin region and near midnight for the 100 Mile House region with precipitation tapering off overnight.

A Fog Advisory is also in effect now until Thursday morning on Highway 97 from Clinton to 100 Mile House as dense fog is creating near zero visibility for parts of Highway 97 especially near Big Bar.

Environment Canada said the visibility is expected to improve by Thursday morning.

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The community is invited to an unveiling ceremony for the first We Wai Kai Totem Pole on Quinsam lands — the first to be raised at a branch of Finning International — on Friday, Dec. 5.

Carved by Kwakwakaʼwakw artist Max Chickite, the 24-foot cedar totem pole features an eagle, whale and bear representing the power of sky, ocean and land. Chickite carved and painted the pole together with his daughter, Jessica Chickite, and apprentice Brent Smith.

In a social-media post, We Wai Kai First Nation said the ceremony celebrates a collaboration between the nation and Finning’s Campbell River branch, a partnership rooted in respect, reconciliation and shared purpose.

Finning provides and sells heavy equipment and parts for the construction, mining, forestry and industrial sectors.

The unveiling will take place at Finning’s Campbell River branch at 700 Osprey Ave. from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

All community members are welcome.

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The City of Duncan will join other Cowichan Valley municipalities in supporting a letter that asks the province and Island Health to consider redeveloping the old hospital site for an addiction-treatment and recovery centre. 

Mayors of Duncan and North Cowichan met in a joint council session in February to discuss the proposal. Both councils agreed the idea could offer a viable treatment option for people in need. 

Mayor Michelle Staples said repurposing the existing facility makes sense given the crisis in the region. 

“It’s a conversation we’re always having to see what spaces we have available for what is missing in our community,” she said. “It seems like a logical place to begin that conversation.” 

Staples added the city has formally expressed interest in adapting the old hospital, but noted the Ministry of Health has told Duncan it has no plans to consider it until the new hospital is completed. 

She said priority must remain on the new facility, but the city and partner municipalities will continue to advocate for interim use of the old one. 

“The thing we have to remember is they’re building a new hospital right now, so that’s the focus of Island Health,” she said. “They’re very focused on that project right now and having a conversation about what’s happening with the old hospital will most likely happen at a later date.” 

Despite the timeline, Staples said keeping the proposal alive is vital. 

“We need this, and we actually need it now,” she said. “We’re still looking a long time away from the new hospital being open, and any possibility of using the site (old CDH) for the needs we have immediately. It’s good to keep it on their radar; these are services we need, and this is a potential location.” 

The joint letter was reportedly signed by representatives from North Cowichan, Lake Cowichan, Ladysmith and the Cowichan Valley Regional District. 

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A new playground is set to be installed in the spring at Houston’s Steelhead Park.

According to the district, it is one of the older and more well used playgrounds in the community.

“The district saw this as an opportunity to create a more safer, accessible, and engaging space for children and families, and those who are traveling on the highway,” said Director of Leisure Services Rebecca Tait.

She added the upgrade has been looked at for several years but started moving ahead this year.

The district released a survey earlier this year about the project to get residents’ input on what they want to see.

“A lot of what the town was looking for was for something that was safe, accessible, and met requirements for a variety of ages,” Tait said.

The playground will have a pour in place rubber surface, two slides, climbing structure, and central tower.

Tait added several ground-level engagement areas will also be included.

“There will be some impact to the Steelhead Park playground while installation or construction is occurring. It will be inaccessible during that time,” she said.

Work for the new playground would take about two months to complete.

The District is using two grants and capitol funds for the project while also working to acquire a third grant.

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Local leaders are calling the closure of the Crofton mill a “devastating blow to the community,” after Domtar announced 350 workers will lose their jobs, though a spokesperson said layoffs will not be immediate. 

Domtar senior director of public affairs Chris Stoicheff said production will stop Dec. 15, but employees will remain on the payroll well into 2026. 

“We are keeping employees at the site for a few more months,” he said. “Employees will continue working at the site until February, and in some cases until April.” 

Stoicheff said the decision to close the mill was difficult. He acknowledged putting employees out of work is not popular and said support would be in place to ensure a smooth transition. 

“We’ve had support systems on site, and we’ll continue to offer them in the coming days and weeks as needed,” he said. “This is a very difficult time for families and people involved.” 

He said lack of material for the mill has disrupted production for some time, and that the decision stems from the inability to secure reliable fibre supplies. 

“Our business depends on being able to get a reliable source of fibres for our mill in British Columbia,” he said. “Unless we can do that we can’t operate competitively within North America.” 

North Cowichan mayor Rob Douglas said the mill has been a vital employer in the region and contributes about $5 million a year in property taxes. 

“This is devastating news for local workers, their families and many businesses that rely on the Crofton mill,” he said. “There are folks with families to support and mortgages to pay, and we’ll do everything we can to support the community through this difficult time.” 

Douglas said he will attend a forthcoming meeting with Premier David Eby and ministers Ravi Parmar and Jennifer Whiteside to discuss supports for impacted workers. 

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Vancouver Island’s real estate market saw more listings and fewer sales in November compared with the same month last year. 

The Vancouver Island Real Estate Board said there were 513 sales of all property types on the island in November, down eight per cent from last year. Active listings rose five per cent to 3,646 properties. 

“VIREB’s housing market remains relatively stable, with sales sitting just below the ten-year average and conditions at the high end of balanced territory,” said VIREB CEO Jason Yochim. “Although sales of single-family homes, condo apartments and townhouses dipped in November, that’s typical for this time of year as buyers and sellers slow down for the holidays.” 

There were 259 single-family homes (excluding acreage and waterfront) sold last month — eight per cent fewer than a year earlier and 18 per cent fewer than in October. The island had 1,121 single-family home listings in November. 

Of 346 condos on the market, 50 sold, a 19 per cent decrease compared with last November. 

Prices continued to climb. The benchmark price for all property types in November was $779,200, up two per cent from last year, but down one per cent from October. The condo benchmark was $421,300, up seven per cent year over year and two per cent compared with October. 

Among area markets, Parksville–Qualicum Beach remained the most expensive, with a benchmark price of $920,800 for November, five per cent higher than last year. Nanaimo’s benchmark fell slightly to $801,900. The Comox Valley benchmark was $851,000, up one per cent. Cowichan Valley rose two per cent to a benchmark of $766,800. On the North Island, the benchmark was $441,900, up three per cent. In Campbell River, the benchmark dropped three per cent to $670,400. 

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“Mission accomplished”.

For the 37^th straight year, Turkey Day that hit the airwaves on Country 840 in the South Cariboo this past Monday (December 1) met and beat it’s pledge goal.

“It was great,” Morning Man and Host Chris Adams said, “It’s always so much fun when we have Turkey Day here and it’s for a great cause. I had plenty of help from community members, Al Richmond from the CRD, Councilor Donna Barnett from the District 100 Mile House, and Mayor Maureen Pinkney all pitching in like they have over the years.”

Every year the goal of this fundraiser is to get 400 “Turkey” pledges which is a donation of $25 that goes to the 100 Mile House Food Bank.

“As it stands right now (December 3), because we still do have a few trickle in here and there for the next week or so, we have received 413 pledges. Translated into funds raised that comes out to about $10,300 for the Food Bank.”

Adams noted a lot of that money raised will go into their Christmas Hampers and whatever is left over will be put into restocking their shelves after the Holidays.

He added anyone who hasn’t gotten their pledges in yet and do so before December 13^th will be entered into a draw for the chance to win a JBL Party Speaker that was donated by Andre’s Electronic Experts here in the South Cariboo.

“This community has always been so generous when it comes to this fundraising event and we just can’t thank everybody enough,” Adams said.

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Residential roads in Courtenay now have reduced speed limits following the completion of a city project. 

The City of Courtenay said its phased plan to roll out 40-km/h speeds on neighbourhood roads over five years was completed two years ahead of schedule. 

Acting Mayor Wendy Morin said finishing the initiative early is a step toward safer streets in Courtenay. 

“Slower speeds save lives and make our neighbourhoods more livable for families, pedestrians and cyclists.” 

Courtenay’s operations team began the program in 2023 and managed to complete it ahead of schedule by integrating the rollout into routine maintenance and using advanced sign-printing technology to recycle existing signage. 

Drivers are urged to note the new limits, which are in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and to adjust their speeds accordingly. 

The city said the reduced speed limits are intended to limit the number and severity of collisions and make neighbourhoods feel more livable. 

An interactive map of the of the speed limit reductions can be found here. 

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A new tool is being deployed in the fight against Eurasian watermilfoil in Christina Lake.

The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary has launched a new floating benthic mat program for waterfront property owners after a three-year pilot program to support the recovery of native aquatic plants.

“Over the course of our pilot, we’ve seen promising results using floating benthic mats to control invasive milfoil and improve ecological conditions in targeted areas of Christina Lake,” says Janine Dougall, the RDKB’s general manager of environmental services.

“This partnership program allows eligible waterfront owners to take an active role in protecting the health of their shoreline while ensuring all work meets provincial requirements.”

Dougal said the mats are a kind of tarp that sit at the bottom of the lake and are held down with rebar. The mats have holes that allow gases from degrading milfoil to escape.

Under the program, property owners buy and store their own benthic mats while partnering with the RDKB, which will manage authorizations, deployment, monitoring, and required reporting to the provincial government.

“This program is focused on ecological restoration — not shoreline beautification,” says Stephen Gaim, the RDKB’s contract and procurement coordinator. “Property assessments will ensure mats are deployed where they can have the greatest impact and where provincial criteria allow.”

RDKB board chair Grace McGregor, who represents Christina Lake, says they have looked at different approaches to managing invasive species in recent years.

“This partnership program is another meaningful step forward, backed by solid results from three years of on-the-water testing,” she said.

Eligibility considerations include areas with more than 75 per cent Eurasian watermilfoil or fragrant water lily, presence of a dock, and whether the area is high-value native fish habitat.

Waterfront owners can learn more here. The deadline to apply for next year is March 1.

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An investigation has been launched following allegations raised by a Kimberley city councillor.

During a special meeting of council on Nov. 3, Coun. Diana Fox called on city staff to initiate an ethics investigation into how the city and council handled drive-through permit requests.

Fox said she received a call from the city on the day of a vote to ban drive-throughs, informing her that a concerned community member believed she may have a conflict of interest.

She said she received a call from the city on the day of a vote to ban drive-throughs that a concerned community member felt she had a conflict of interest.

She said city staff told her they had looked into it with legal and they agreed that there was a possible conflict of interest.

Fox said there was no time to defend herself before the vote.

City officials said an investigation could not be initiated based on this request for two reasons: the information provided did not articulate the parameters of the requested investigation, and the way the request was brought forward contravened the city’s bylaws.

Since that meeting, the city has received two formal complaints from Fox, one against a staff member and one against a fellow councillor.

External third parties will review the complaints in accordance with city policies and determine an appropriate process for resolution.

The city will not be commenting further.

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College of the Rockies vice-president, academic, Robin Hicks has announced the appointment of Vanessa Lozecznik as the new manager of workforce development and campus operations at the Creston campus.

“We are excited to welcome Vanessa to the college,” Hicks said. “Her management experience, in combination with her passion for collaborative, inclusive decision-making and community-centred leadership, will be a tremendous addition to our team.”

Lozecznik brings more than a decade of experience living and working in the Creston Valley, where she has built a strong reputation for creating inclusive and sustainable educational and community programs.

Since 2014, she has served as the Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) co-ordinator at Valley Community Services Society, managing multi-site programming across six East Kootenay communities and co-ordinating staff, volunteers and community partners.

She also serves as a prevention specialist with Gambling Support BC, where she develops tailored educational workshops for diverse audiences and strengthens partnerships with regional agencies.

Previously, as the healthy foods project co-ordinator for the Northern Association of Community Councils from 2011 to 2014, Lozecznik designed and implemented food security initiatives across 26 Indigenous and Métis communities. Her work included securing external funding to expand under-resourced programs, including organic beekeeping co-ops, U-pick orchards and food preservation projects.

Lozecznik holds a Master of Natural Resources Management from the University of Manitoba. Her graduate research explored platforms for public participation and adult transformative learning in marginalized rural communities—an area of expertise that aligns with the college’s focus on community connection and lifelong learning.

“I’m really excited to begin this new journey with the college,” Lozecznik said. “I’m looking forward to supporting the diverse needs of our learners in Creston and building strong, meaningful relationships with stakeholders to help create a vibrant and welcoming campus.”

Lozecznik began her role on Dec. 1 and will be available at the Creston campus three days a week.

More information about the Creston campus is available at cotr.bc.ca/creston.

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It didn’t take long for Beaver Valley Nitehawks alumnus Judah Makway to record his first NCAA point with the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves.

The first-year forward collected an assist against Bemidji State on Oct. 3. His first goals were game-winners against Bentley University, then Stonehill, against whom he scored twice. That first goal came on Nov. 15.

“It’s always a good feeling to get that first one of the season and it felt even better to get it at this level where goals don’t come easily,” said Makway.

In 12 games, the six-foot-three, 190-pound forward has 25 shots and 23 penalty minutes.

“Judah has done an excellent job adjusting to the pace and strength needed to play at this level. You can see his confidence growing each game,” said Seawolves head coach Matt Shasby. “He is the perfect example of someone who loves the game and might have been a late bloomer, who I predict will be at NHL development camps this summer. We are very excited about his future.”

Makway said there are always areas where he feels he can improve and “areas where I am still learning and adjusting, but overall I like where my game is at.”

He played a season in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League with his hometown Nitehawks in 2021-22, posting 13 goals and 33 points in 33 games. His brothers, Asher and Hudson, play for the Castlegar Rebels. Makway said his time in the KIJHL helped him adjust to the physicality of junior hockey.

“I enjoyed my year in Beaver Valley,” he said. “I had some great teammates and coaches there who gave me every opportunity to be successful in the future.”

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Tony Bourke has been named the 2025 recipient of the Knights of Pythias Community Volunteer Award by the Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies (CFKR).

In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, the award was announced as a way to recognize Bourke’s ongoing contributions to the community. The dedicated community member began volunteering at the Cranbrook Food Bank in 2011 and now donates his time four days a week. He is considered an indispensable part of the team, managing “Tony’s Bread Shed” and helping weigh and record food donations.

Bourke also volunteers with the Cranbrook Hospital Auxiliary, a role he began in 2011. There, he sorts thrifted donations and supports patients and visitors at the hospital. In 2020, he expanded his efforts by joining the Key City Theatre volunteer team.

Bourke was nominated by Julie Rose, executive director of the Cranbrook Food Bank Society, who called him an inspiration to the community.

“Tony is more than a volunteer, he’s part of the fabric of our community.  His grit, perseverance, and lifelong commitment to serving others inspire everyone who has the privilege of knowing him.  He embodies the value of staying active, engaged, and connected to one’s community, and stands as a role model for what it means to live a life of purpose and kindness. Cranbrook is better because of him, and he is genuinely deserving of this recognition.” Ross said.

As the recipient of this year’s Community Volunteer Award, Bourke will assist local youth with the costs of partaking in sports through designating the $750.00 donation to KidSport Cranbrook.

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A public hearing has been scheduled for Dec. 16 for Fernie residents looking to comment on changes to the Official Community Plan.

The hearing starts at 6:30 at the Seniors Drop in Centre and is open to all Fernie residents.

The city is updating its OCP to incorporate the findings of the 2024 housing needs report.

It found the city needs 551 new housing units within five years and 1,856 units over the next 20 years.

Most of the changes to the OCP involves deleting outdated policy and a few additions.

That includes deleting an existing policy and replacing it with one that allows up to four dwelling units per lot where full sewer and water services exist and permitting secondary suites in all low and medium density dwellings.

Council has given two readings to the proposed changes so far and it will be adopted by the end of the year.

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Fixing the City of Castlegar’s sewage system could cost up to $82 million and take five to 15 years, city council has been told. The first stage report of the city’s new liquid waste management plan also recommends the city’s north and south sewage plants be consolidated on the north site.

A consultant, Urban Systems, worked with local advisory and steering committees to determine the best place for a long-term wastewater treatment plant.

The company’s Alex Kempa said the existing south sewage treatment plant serves 58 per cent of the population, but is the source of complaints about odors, its treatment equipment is in poor condition, and it’s operating at capacity.

The north plant serves the other 42 per cent of the city, and faces compromised treatment capacity plus equipment and operational challenges. Both plants have struggled in recent years to meet federal and provincial requirements.

While the status quo of running two plants would come with the lowest capital costs, it would be the most complex to operate, Kempa said. Consolidating at the north site would come with high capital costs, but reduced operating costs and complexities. Consolidating at the south would have the highest upfront costs and face site constraints.

In trying to identify a preferred spot, open houses were hosted in February that had 36 participants, and a survey was issued that received 150 responses.

Kempa said the overall messages received were that people want to protect the Columbia River, they recognize the city’s sewage infrastructure needs renewal, and they want reducing odors to be a priority. While there were mixed views on trying to keep costs to a minimum, there was a preference for consolidating at the north treatment plant.

Feedback received prompted them to look at three other sites, Kempa added: the Mercer Celgar pulp mill, which was ruled out when then company said it wouldn’t be feasible; a former government gravel pit near the airport, which was ruled out due to concerns around proximity to Ootischenia residents; and the city’s public works facility in the industrial park at the south end of town, which was nixed because of challenges presented by relocating the existing operation.

Kempa said after considering social, financial, and environmental factors, the north sewage treatment plant became the only viable location for the long-term site.

The plan will now be sent to the Ministry of Environment for review. Council was told it would probably take four to six months to hear back, although there is no guarantee that the plan will be approved.

If the provincial government does give the green light, the plan will proceed to its second phase, which will include an environmental impact study, evaluation of treatment technology options, and further consultation with the public and Regional District of Central Kootenay. That could take a year to a year and a half.

The third stage would outline an implementation plan and include approval of the liquid waste plan by the Ministry of Environment and city council. That would also be expected to take a year to a year and a half.

Council was told that depending on the community’s ability to pay for the project, it could take five to 15 years for design and construction, although things could move more quickly if the city receives grants.

Based on treatment plant upgrades in similar size communities, the report estimates the fixes would cost between $76 million and $82 million.

“We really don’t have an option for this,” city manager Chris Barlow said. “This is a generational investment we’re making, and this isn’t just guided by a staff idea or two. The whole community’s getting us to this decision.”

Council was told a referendum wouldn’t be required to approve the borrowing involved, provided the liquid waste plan is approved.

While a new sewage plant is a long ways off, the city says it is looking into short to medium-term fixes to deal with ongoing issues at the existing south treatment plant.

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Police In Kimberley are searching for 36-year-old Jacob McKenzie.

Kimberley RCMP officials said McKenzie is wanted on outstanding warrants for uttering threats, failing to stop, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and assaulting a police officer with a weapon.

He is described as 6’2″, 161 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Kimberley detachment at 250-427-4811.

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The District of Sparwood has adopted amendments to its recreation fees and charges bylaw to increase rates.

The bylaw includes shifting rental fees to an hourly basis where possible and introduces a fee subsidy program.

Eligible residents will be provided with 12 recreation admission tickets per identified household member per calendar year.

Applicants must have a RecDesk account and provide a referral letter from a recognized public service agency.

Under the new bylaw, all areas will meet a minimum of 20 per cent for cost recovery. Rates will also increase 3.5 per cent each year from 2025-2030.

The district has been compiling resident feedback before the adoption and said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

New rates come into effect 15 business days after the bylaw adoption and yearly increases will occur on Sept. 1.

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The Williams Lake RCMP Detachment now has another tool in their toolbox.

In late November, they completed a Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Project (C-STEP) application and were given the funding from the Government of BC.

The aim of the program is to provide consistent, enhanced, proactive and highly visible police presence to suppress and prevent violent criminal activity in the City.

North District Corporal Madonna Saunderson stated in a release that on Thursday November 27, Williams Lake RCMP received a report of a theft from a locked vehicle.

Saunderson said thieves broke the window and stole multiple items including a backpack containing computer equipment.

“As a result of the funding from C-STEP, police officers on shift working this targeted policing campaign later identified, located and arrested the suspects. Police were able to recover all of the stolen property which has since been returned.”

Police said the suspects were released for a future court date and the investigative work, in keeping with the C-STEP program and increased proactive patrols resulted in a successful outcome

“These patrols will continue throughout the Holiday Season and in the New Year,” Williams Lake Staff Sargeant Brad Mckinnon said, “The public can expect to see an increase in police presence in the downtown core.”

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All Colton Whitfield wanted was a chance to play.

The tough, gritty 19-year-old defenseman feels he has his confidence back after 11 games with the Trail Smoke Eaters.

“My confidence has definitely grown since I got here and played a little more, gotten used to the change of scenery, so it’s been good,” said the native of Warwick, RI.

The six-foot-two, 185-pound d-man arrived from Tri-City of the USHL just before Trail’s Oct. 25 game against the first place Warriors in West Kelowna.

He turned in a solid effort during the 3-2 win in overtime.

Whitfield has taken a regular shift ever since and says he is continuing to make plays more quickly and without fear of making mistakes.

The puck recoveries, board battles and first passes in the defensive zone, as well as pinches at the opposition blue line and jumping into the rush are coming more spontaneously.

“I’m just playing a lot with a lot less second guessing, with that confidence it’s a lot easier to make those plays without hesitating or thinking about what could happen if it goes wrong,” added Whitfield, who hasn’t noticed much of a difference in the level of play in the BCHL when compared to the USHL.

“It’s pretty similar to what the USHL was, pretty much the same kinds of dynamics, it’s junior (hockey),” explained Whitfield, who is impressed with the close knit relationship among his new team mates in the locker room.

“We’re a really tight group, not a bad guy in the room, everybody’s laughing and joking, but come game time, we’re ready to go,” stated the rugged rearguard.

Whitfield is a prototypical shut-down defenseman, focused on keeping the puck out of the Smokies net, but also has five points, including his first BCHL goal against Okotoks on Nov. 22 at Cominco Arena.

“It was definitely satisfying to get that first one (goal) out of the way, now I don’t have to worry about it,” commented Colton who is most remembered for a toe-to-toe fight in Trail against Brooks forward Brett Calhoun.

“That was my first junior fight,” said Whitfield, who had first hand instruction.

“My dad was a fighter in junior when he played so, he helped me when I was younger, taught me how to just in case it happened and helped me out there,” explained Whitfield.

Based on the result, which earned a rousing ovation from the 1,768 fans on hand and rave reviews afterward, his dad taught Colton well.

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Some of the 27 dogs seized by the SPCA from a rural West Kootenay property in October are now in foster homes.

In an update to supporters, the SPCA said because the case was a “sensitive animal protection investigation,” it could only provide a few details.

“After being cleared of various health issues like Bordetella, many of these dogs have been free to play in the yard and interact with staff and volunteers without them geared up in PPE,” the update said. “It’s a much nicer experience for everyone.”

The SPCA said some of the dogs have been moved into foster homes where they can receive dedicated care in a calmer environment.

However, the organization added that given the sensitivity of this case, it could share any further information on adoption timelines or locations of these dogs.

The dogs were seized along with one cat on Oct. 7 following an animal protection investigation involving concerns of irresponsible breeding and neglect.

The dog breeds included French bulldogs, Boston terriers, Kangal shepherds, and heelers, as well as several mixed-breed dogs. They included 12 puppies ranging in age from eight weeks to seven months old.

The SPCA said the animals were kept mainly outdoors without appropriate shelter and with inadequate fencing, so the dogs were running loose.

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Update: The Cranbrook RCMP said Travis Bolton has been located.

Original: Police in Cranbrook are looking for the public’s help in locating Travis Bolton.

The 49-year-old man is wanted on two warrants for theft under $5,000.

He is described as 5’11”, 135 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Police recommend that the public does not approach him.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Cranbrook RCMP at 250-489-3471.

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Sports by Hartley Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025  as of 12:05 a.m.

WHL:

A day after being named WHL Goaltender of the Week, Josh Ravensbergen of the Prince George Cougars is the league’s Goalie of the Month for November.

The 19-year-old Ravensbergen went 8-2 with a 2.00 goals-against average, .940 save percentage, and one shutout last month.

On the season, the San Jose Sharks first-round draft pick has a 13-6 record with a .920 save percentage.

The (17-8) Cougars continue a 5-game road trip tonight (Wednesday) at 7:00 in Kelowna  against the (12-8-3-1) Rockets.

Prince George leads the BC Division by 4 points over Kamloops and by 6 over Kelowna and Penticton.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

BCHL: 

The (12-9-1) Prince George Spruce Kings host the (13-10) Victoria Grizzlies Friday night at 7:00 and Saturday night at 6:00.

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The Williams Lake City Council is looking into three options to balance its books for 2026’s budget.

During Tuesday’s, December 2, City Council meeting, a preliminary proposed budget from City Staff was received for the Council to review.

The City’s Chief Financial Officer, Vitali Kozubenko, said if all capital projects are included, there is a $2,832,814.00 shortfall.

Council was directed to review the capital projects and consider three options on how to handle the shortfall.

Option 1:

Raise rates or general and parcel taxes to implement the requested capital program, which would include:

• Raise general taxes by a further 7% (to a total tax increase of 12%). • Raise water rates by 68% or water parcel tax by 228% (or combination of raises). • Raise sewer rates by 8.3% or sewer parcel tax by 79% (or combination of raises).

Option 2:

Fund the capital program from reserves and surpluses.

Finally, Option 3 is:

Reduce capital program proposed – Council may direct staff to remove some service level projects or projects added to address Council priorities from the plan.

Council will review and make adjustments to which capital projects will go ahead, which will be discussed in a Special Council Meeting held on Wednesday, December 3, at 12 p.m.

Councillor Scott Nelson said he will be looking to cut projects to get a “targeted” zero per cent tax increase, to support the struggle to handle the rise in affordability costs.

“There’s no doubt that there’s some dark clouds over the resource-based communities, including Williams Lake,” Nelson said, mentioning the closure of the Drax pellet plant, which is estimated to be $400,000 hit to the City’s tax revenue base.

“This budget is put together very cautiously based upon grants and recognizing quite clearly that we’ve had a flat line in growth in the private sector over the last five years. So, any big capital projects, if they’re not grant-funded, I’m not going to be supporting them. So, at the budget meeting tomorrow, I’ll be looking to at key capital projects that are tied to grants. The others need to be axed.”

Nelson also

Councillor Michael Moses said he will also be looking to reduce the City’s tax increase, but to a level that “keeps as many services as possible for the least amount of extra costs” while understanding the rising costs.

“I’m not aiming for a zero or a 3.3, but at whatever keeps our community functional and safer,” Moses said. “I agree that we will do our best to keep that number as small as we can, but we do not only answer to the community for the amount of taxes that we’re charging. We also answer the community for the quality and the amount of services that we’re providing. The longer we push back maintenance, replacements, and capital projects, to make sure we provide certain services. The more the maintenance will cost when they surprise us and break in the long road.”

In December 3’s Special Council Meeting, Council will decide which direction they will go forward on deciding projects within the budget.

There is a community meeting at City Hall on December 9 at 3 p.m. regarding the final 2026 budget, where the final reading and potential adoption will be decided.

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Prince George City Council gave the first three readings on a series of bylaws relating to a new stormwater management fund at last night’s (Monday) meeting.

In September 2024, Prince George City Council chose to fund stormwater management by creating a utility fee based on the actual measurement of the hard surface area in a sampling of all types of residential properties.

This approach also provides the opportunities for incentives to reduce this fee, such as rain barrels or other credit programs.

According to a staff report to Council, staff will be working on a credit program in 2026, with a report to be presented to Council in the fall of next year.

In October of this year, City Council chose to implement the fee in a phased approach.

Under this approach, Council directed administration to begin charging charging all properties on January 1st, 2027 at less than the full funding level with phased increases over two years.

This would start with a charge of $103.15 per Equivalent Resident Unit (ERU) of 304 metres squared in 2027, with an increase to $143.01 in 2028, and an increase to $182.86 in 2029.

“This is not a rain tax,” said Mayor Simon Yu.

Councillor Trudy Klassen voted against, saying she felt the City hadn’t grown enough for it.

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This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

British Columbia’s Health Ministry said that as of Dec. 30, all patients taking prescribed alternatives must do so under the supervision of a health professional, such as a pharmacist or nurse.

“Prescribed alternatives save lives by separating people at highest risk of overdose from toxic street drugs and predatory drug dealers, and give people a chance to get into treatment,” Health Minister Josie Osborne said in a statement Tuesday. 

Osborne first announced changes to B.C.’s Prescribed Alternatives program in February to require witnessed dosing. The new rules went into effect immediately for all new prescriptions, but not for those with pre-existing prescriptions. 

Osborne told reporters during an unrelated announcement Monday there was a need for a “sensitive and methodical” approach to transitioning existing patients to witnessed dosing, and the province took time to seek guidance from clinical experts. 

The ministry said there will be “limited” exemptions to witnessed dosing for some patients, including for clients from rural, remote and Indigenous communities who do not have routine access to a pharmacy. Regular clinical assessments would be required for patients in those cases to confirm they are taking the prescribed doses. 

The changes are intended to ensure those who are prescribed the medications are the ones consuming them. A review of the province’s safer supply programs in 2023 said some diversion of prescribed medications is taking place, but there’s a lack of data on how often it occurs and the impacts. Diversion could include patients sharing or selling the medications or even having them stolen. 

The review acknowledged in some cases diversion may benefit those who would otherwise be at risk of drug poisoning, but it said there remains the potential for harm when drugs are taken by those without a prescription.

Drugs provided under the prescribed alternatives program include opioids such as fentanyl, benzodiazepines and stimulants like dextroamphetamine.

The province said hydromorphone is the medication most at risk of diversion. It said prescriptions of hydromorphone through the Prescribed Alternatives program have declined more than 50 per cent from its peak of more than 4,500 clients in March 2023 to approximately 2,200 clients in July 2025. 

Claire Rattée, Skeena MLA and mental health and addictions critic, said she believes the declining uptake in the programs show how much it was being used for the purposes of diversion.

Rattée said she’s not in favour of the government’s safer supply program or decriminalization in general, but notes the move to witnessed dosing could be an effective harm reduction tool for the moment. 

“The government itself has now admitted that they are aware that there’s diversion going on with this program, so it’s a step in the right direction,” she said. “My issue is that this government continually invests in harm reduction without investing in any of the other wraparound supports that are needed to help lift people out from [addiction].”

The B.C. Coroners Service released preliminary data on Tuesday saying 150 people died of unregulated drug toxicity in October.

The province has seen an overall decline in toxic drug deaths this year compared to 2024. An estimated 1,538 people have died between January and October – 459 fewer than at the same time last year. 

The B.C. Pharmacy Association said in a brief emailed statement it “supports the Province and Ministry of Health in taking these steps to stop any diversion of prescribed alternatives.” 

The province is also developing a new payment system to compensate pharmacies for witnessing doses of prescribed alternatives. The plan, expected to launch in spring 2026, will pay pharmacies a fee for each eligible dose up to a daily maximum. As of Dec. 4, pharmacists are required to keep a written log of each witnessed interaction.

The post B.C. tightens safer supply rules with witnessed dosing for all patients appeared first on AM 1150.

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October was a rare month where no one died due to toxic drugs in the Kootenay-Boundary.

A BC Coroners Service round-up of statistics relating to unregulated drug deaths showed our area was the only part of the province where no one died that month.

It’s the second month this year with not fatalities in the region: January was the other one.
The East Kootenay did not have any deaths in December 2024 either.

Year to date, there have been 41 deaths in the Kootenay-Boundary, of which 27 were in the West Kootenay-Boundary and 14 in the East Kootenay.

Of those deaths, nine were in Nelson, eight were in Cranbrook, and seven were in Trail. There were also three each in Castlegar and Grand Forks, two each in Fernie and the Arrow Lakes, and one apiece in Creston and Golden. None have been recorded in Kimberley, Windermere, Kootenay Lake, or Kettle Valley.

Province-wide, 150 people died from toxic drugs in October. However, the number of deaths this year is on track to be the lowest in the last five years. There have been 1,538 so far, compared to 1,775 in 2020. Deaths peaked in 2023 at 2,589.

The BC Corners Service says fentanyl and its analogues remain the most common substance found in toxicological testing, followed by fluorofentanyl, cocaine, and meth.

Among deaths were the occupation industry was known, the most common areas of employment were trades, transport, and equipment operators; and sales and service.

The post No drug-related deaths in Kootenay-Boundary in October appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

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B.C.’s police watchdog is investigating after a man experienced a medical event while in custody of the Nelson Police Department.

The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) said that Nelson Police arrested a man on outstanding warrants around 12:30 a.m. on Nov. 27 and lodged him in NPD cells.

At about 7 a.m., the man asked for medical assistance and Emergency Health Services were called.

He was then taken to hospital for treatment. No details on his condition were released.

The IIO was notified shortly after the incident and launched an investigation.

The IIO said it considers two factors at the beginning of each investigation. First, it determines whether a case involves serious harm, as defined under the Police Act, or death; second, whether that harm may be connected to police or detention guard actions or inaction.

If both conditions are met, investigators review all available evidence before the chief civilian director decides whether reasonable grounds exist to believe an offence occurred.

The IIO is also asking anyone who has not already spoken with investigators, or who has video of the incident, to contact its witness line at 1-855-446-8477 or use the contact form on its website.

The IIO is the independent civilian oversight agency of officers and, since 2025, detention guards in British Columbia.

It investigates all incidents involving officers or detention guards that result in serious harm or death, whether or not there is any allegation of wrongdoing.

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The post Nelson Police in-custody medical event under IIO review appeared first on My Nelson Now.

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Local skiers and boarders eager for their first turns of the season will have to hold tight, as Whitewater Ski Resort pushes back its opening by a week due to low snowpack.

The resort said it now plans to open on Friday, Dec. 12. It was originally scheduled to open on Dec. 4.

In a social media update, Whitewater said conditions across the hill aren’t yet suitable to safely welcome guests.

“Although we are getting some snow right now, we’re not quite there yet with the snow conditions around the resort,” outdoor operations manager Dave Michael said in a video update.

“We’re really close, to be honest with you. But skiing around last week and then again this morning, there’s just still too many hazards out there and we need some more snow.”

Whitewater said the summit weather plot at 1,950 metres shows a snowpack of about 70 centimetres – not enough to meet the resort’s threshold to open.

Significant snowfall is in the forecast beginning this weekend, which the resort said could help push conditions toward a safe start next week.

“We are looking to get into a really good weather system this Friday. And we’re going to be really stoked to bring everybody back up here and provide a really good product for you all,” Michael added.

The resort remains closed with no access permitted as crews prepare for the upcoming season, running groomers and loaders and conducting avalanche control work across the mountain.

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