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Prince George residents are standing with Tumbler Ridge, following Tuesday’s deadly shooting that left the community reeling.

Around a couple dozen people gathered at the CN Centre parking lot this (Wednesday) evening, lighting candles in support for the community and those affected by the tragic event.

Community member Steven Fisher talked about the impact that’s been felt in Prince George.

“The only words I have is horrific. These are kids. These kids were just beginning their lives, and had their lives taken from them. I think that’s what hurts us the most.”

Fisher said they want to show Tumbler Ridge that they’re not alone, we hurt for them, and anything we can do, we will help with.

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Interior Health has issued a drug alert for the entire region.

The health authority said the alert follows several samples of substances sold as down, dope, tranq or fentanyl that were found to contain medetomidine, up to 15 per cent, in addition to carfentanil and benzodiazepines.

“The down supply is unpredictable. High concentrations of opioids and medetomidine as well as multiple new benzodiazepines increase risk,” Interior Health said.

Medetomidine can slow breathing and heart rate, making overdoses more complicated and longer lasting. The substance is also potentially dangerous to the heart.

When combined with other opioids or sedatives, medetomidine can lead to “complex and prolonged” toxicity, with withdrawal that may be severe and difficult to treat.

Medetomidine does not respond to naloxone, although naloxone should still be administered when opioid involvement is suspected.

Interior Health warned overdose symptoms may last beyond the administration of naloxone.

The health authority urges people who use substances to take steps to prevent overdose.

People should check their drugs before using them. Take-home fentanyl test strips and local drug-checking services can help identify what substances are present.

People should also know the signs of an overdose and carry naloxone.

People to use substances are advised to use with others present and one person at a time so someone can respond in case of an overdose. It also advised starting with a small amount and going slowly, being aware of the risks of mixing drugs and recognizing that smoking is not safer than injecting.

People who use alone are encouraged to consider the Lifeguard app, which can connect users with 911 emergency responders in the event of an overdose.

Information about drug-checking services is available at www.drugchecking.ca.

The alert will be in place until at least Feb. 25.

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Interior Health said its thoughts are with the Tumbler Ridge, B.C., community following yesterday’s tragedy.

Recognizing the widespread emotional impact this event may have on individuals across the Interior and beyond, Interior Health asked media to share the following resources in their coverage where appropriate.

These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays:

• Interior Crisis Line Network: 1-888-353-2273

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988

• KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717

• Métis Crisis Line: 1-833-638-4722

• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

People can also call 310-MHSU (6478) to reach their local mental health and substance use centre for support during business hours.

More mental health resources are available on Interior Health’s public website, including youth-focused services.

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After a review of the draft budget, the Municipality of North Cowichan said it has made amendments to lower the tax increase to provide relief. 

Last month council adopted the finance department’s recommended 10.62 per cent property tax increase, but after a review, council found items to cut to help address affordability. 

In a previous council meeting, chief administrative officer Ted Swabey said council has addressed the budget numerous times to keep the rate low and it would take considerable cuts to make a meaningful impact. 

“Council will have to make big changes to reduce the budget down to five per cent,” he said. “They (council) couldn’t find anything new they were willing to cut, so to ‘cut around the edges,’ would be even worse because you’re (council) not going to reduce the budget by percentages.” 

However, Mayor Rob Douglas said council was able to find items to adjust in the draft budget and save an additional 2.36 per cent for ratepayers. 

“We did end up shaving off over $600,000 of costs related to property tax, which translates into 2.36 per cent,” he said. “It’s not at the level we wanted to get to, but we did reduce the projected increase and that’s good for affordability.” 

Council endorsed funding several capital projects through reserves instead of borrowing and cut funding for municipal travel expenses, which had already been reduced by 50 per cent. 

Douglas said there are still costs beyond the municipality’s control keeping rates higher than desired, including infrastructure costs and more than $1.5 million going toward RCMP detachment debt and an increase to the policing contract. 

He said infrastructure is a major cost because of how vast the municipality is and the amount of service coverage needed. 

“We’ve really spread out our infrastructure whether that’s roads, water, sewers, drainage or even our critical services,” he said. “Because of the area we are facing significant costs, not only to deliver our services, but also to maintain our services.” 

If the budget is adopted, the new tax increase would be 8.26 per cent.  

A budget open house is scheduled for Feb. 24 at municipal hall from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., followed by public input. 

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Reaction continues to pour in following yesterday’s (Tuesday) mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge that claimed the lives of nine people including the shooter.

Earlier today (Wednesday), the RCMP have identified the suspect as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar.

Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies MP Bob Zimmer told Vista Radio the tragedy hits close to home as he is a father of four himself.

“I can’t imagine as a father of four, parents that expected their kids to walk through the door at the end of the school day and now they are not going to walk through the door anymore. We have to mourn those who have lost loved ones and even been close to some of those loved ones that have been lost.”

Zimmer believes the community can bounce back from this, but it will take some time.

“It’s going to take some time to mourn and I know that Tumbler Ridge is a resilient town and it’s gone through ups and downs but nothing like this. The people that I know in Tumbler Ridge are great people and its going to be a strong community even after this event.”

Dawson Creek Mayor, Darcy Dober stated on a Facebook Live video now is the time to lift up our neighbours during this time of crisis.

“We stand together in sorrow and support in solidarity. Dawson Creek is here to provide any resources and assistance needed and we will continue to work closely with the community and local authorities as the situation unfolds.”

“Today, we sit in silence grieving for our neighbours in holding space for their friends, families and all of those that have been affected.”

Premier David Eby and Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, will travel to Tumbler Ridge to meet with people impacted by yesterday’s tragedy,

They are travelling with federal ministers Gary Anandasangaree and Gregor Robinson.

The planned Throne Speech that was scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday) has been cancelled. BC will have a Day of Mourning instead.

At noon, the legislative assembly will stand for a moment of silence in honour of the victims in Tumbler Ridge, their families and the entire community. The house will then adjourn.

Two hours later, the lieutenant governor will deliver a speech in the house dedicated to the people of Tumbler Ridge, followed by brief legally required procedures.

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The mayor of Grand Forks says he has spoken to his counterpart in Tumbler Ridge about the “absolute tragedy” that has occurred in that community.

Everett Baker, a longtime funeral home director, said all he could offer fellow mayor Darryl Krakowka was a sympathetic ear.

“I was truly speechless,” Baker said in an interview. “I really didn’t know what to say. And that’s okay. I know from my work in grief that sometimes saying nothing is just as good as saying a lot. 

“Darryl says this is not citizens, this is community, this is family. And I absolutely understand that because we all come from small communities here.”

Baker said while it is hard to fathom what Tumbler Ridge is experiencing, he can empathize.

“Sometimes we think we’re immune from tragedies like that, but really we’re not,” he said. “It’s a very small community, smaller than Grand Forks. Everybody knows everybody.”

Baker is in Victoria, where he was expected to attend the throne from the speech at the BC Legislature. That event has now been postponed, as tomorrow has been declared an official day of mourning. Baker will attend a vigil outside the legislature tonight for the victims.

Baker also expected to meet with some cabinet ministers during his visit and says so far that part of his itinerary hasn’t changed. He will still speak with Forests Minister Ravi Parmar and George Anderson, the parliamentary secretary for transit.

Baker is scheduled to return home on Saturday.

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Police are increasing their presence in in Creston Thursday as a OneBC town hall and rally draw hundreds of people to the Creston Valley, though police do not anticipate major safety issues.

The Lower Kootenay Band and its allies are organizing the rally in response to the town hall being organized by party leader Dallas Brodie.

It’s expected to draw protesters from throughout the region who share concerns with Brodies past statements on residential schools.

Staff Sgt. Brandon Buliziuk said the detachment is aware of the event and rally and that additional resources are being deployed to maintain safety.

“There will be an increased RCMP presence during this event. We will have frontline officers, liaison officers and a Unified Command with other Emergency Services Agencies,” Buliziuk told Vista Radio.

He said RCMP also anticipate controlling a portion of the Highway 3/3A junction using barricades and traffic control personnel.

“This is being established to ensure the safety of people standing roadside and for that of the motoring public,” added Buliziuk.

He said police have been in contact with the groups planning the rally and, at this point, have not identified any major public safety concerns.

However, he acknowledged the inherent risk any time hundreds of people with opposing political views gather in the same place.

“Individuals are accountable for their own behaviour and should incidents occur that fall outside of the bounds of lawful assembly, enforcement action may be required.”

Anyone not attending the event or rally is advised to avoid the area to reduce congestion and allow emergency services to operate if needed.

Those attending on foot are encouraged to be visible. High-visibility clothing is recommended.

For the travelling public, traffic flow and roadway access should not be hindered. Should roads become blocked, Buliziuk said safety measures will be established before reopening them to the motoring public.

The OneBC town hall is scheduled for Feb. 12 from 7 to 9 p.m. The location has not been disclosed by the party, though rally organizers believe it is being held at a local hotel.

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It’s time to step up for Cowichan Valley youth.

Registration is officially open for the fifth annual Coldest Night of the Year walk in Duncan.

Coming up Saturday, Feb. 28, the local Canadian Mental Health Association is aiming to raise $100,000.

Organizers say they have outgrown their current youth centre on Festubert Street and need a new permanent home to keep up with demand for hot meals and mental health support.

Whether you’re doing the two-kilometre or five-kilometre walk, the trek starts at the Cowichan Community Centre.

Participants are encouraged to grab their gear, build a team and help organizers hit that six-figure mark.

More details, including registration information, are available here.

– Article includes link from Canadian Mental Health Association

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The Cariboo-Chilcotin School District(SD27) and Quesnel School District (SD28) have released statements following the tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

SD28 Superintendent, Dan Lowndes, said in a statement via email to Vista Radio, “Our hearts go out to the Tumbler Ridge community, and especially to the students, staff, and families directly impacted.”

He said with the support of the Ministry of Education & Childcare, and several government organizations, a Critical Incident Table has been set up in School District 59, Peace River South, that will coordinate resources and respond strategically and effectively.

“Many school districts, including SD28, have offered additional resources through this Critical Incident Table,” Lowndes says.

“In SD28, we have convened our local Critical Incident Response team to provide information and plans to staff and parents to support our children and youth through the impacts of such a tragic event.”

In a message from SD28, Lowndes says the district assures that all students and staff in the Quesnel area are safe, and their safety remains SD28’s highest priority. The district will take every precaution to maintain a safe and supportive school environment.

The Superintendent’s Message also says to the community that tragic events such as these are “difficult for children and youth to understand”, and experiencing a wide range of reactions is normal. Students may experience anxiety, sadness, confusion, and changes of behaviour as they process the information on the event.

The message states that in the Quesnel schools, counsellors and support services are available for students or staff who may need additional support. It encourages staff and families to contact the school to help if anyone notices changes in a student’s usual behaviours.

The District encourages limiting students’ exposure to news sources, both traditional and social media channels, as it is essential.

As well as talking to children and answering calmly, reassure them that they are safe.

The Cariboo-Chilcotin School District issued its message of support on behalf of the school district, on February 10, by Superintendent Cheryl Lenardon.

Lenardon states, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred today[Tuesday] in Tumbler Ridge. On behalf of our entire school district, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and community members who are grieving this unimaginable loss.”

Superintendent Lenardon acknowledges that children and adults may experience sadness, fear, confusion, and anxiety as they hear more about the tragedy.

“Events like this can also be triggering for those who have experienced trauma or loss in the past,” Lenardon says in the statement. “Please know that your child’s emotional well-being is our top priority.”

SD27’s statement says support, counselling, and staff will be prepared to provide support and a safe, caring space for students across all the schools in the district.

If children and youth need immediate assistance, both school districts encourage students not to hesitate and reach out for support to express their feelings, ask questions, or take a moment if they are struggling.

Lenardon added that, additionally, students and families may access free mental health and wellness services virtually through the Foundry BC app and the Foundry Virtual BC website.

For additional resources, families can find more information on the Family Resources page on the Quesnel School District’s website.

The province of British Columbia has its Help Starts Here support line at 310-6789.

The Kids Help Phone number is 1-800-668-6868, or text 686868.

Kids Help Phone also has a live online chat available at kidshelpphone.ca.

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The superintendent of the Kootenay Columbia school district says resources are being made available to staff and parents in the wake of the Tumbler Ridge shooting.

In a note sent to parent this afternoon, superintendent Katherine Shearer said Monday was a tragic day for the northern community “and the impact of this event is being felt across the province and beyond. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time.”

Shearer said the district has shared resources with its staff to help support children “with care and sensitivity.”

She said the Ministry of Education and Child Care has also provided additional resources for parents and caregivers, suggesting limiting children’s exposure to news, acknowledging feelings, listening to children more than you speak, providing facts (gently), maintaining daily routines, and encouraging empathy and compassion.

“We will continue to work closely with our schools as we process this tragedy together,” Shearer said. “Please know that student safety and well‑being remain our highest priorities, and we are committed to maintaining the practices and supports that help keep our school communities safe.”

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The Nelson Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the community of Tumbler Ridge following the devastating shooting incident.

“Our thoughts are with the students, teachers, families and staff of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, and the entire community during this heartbreaking time,” said Nelson Police in a statement.

“We commend the courage and professionalism of the front-line workers, emergency responders and medical personnel who acted swiftly in response to this tragedy. Their commitment in the face of unimaginable circumstances is deeply appreciated.

“Our hearts are with the people of Tumbler Ridge as they grieve and begin to heal. We stand with you, and we extend our sincere gratitude to all who responded.”

The City of Nelson also issued a statement expressing condolences.

“The City of Nelson extends our heartfelt condolences to the community of Tumbler Ridge. We are holding the parents, teachers, students and the entire community in our thoughts and wishing strength, care and support during this profoundly difficult time.”

The Nelson Police Department has also offered all available services to support School District #8 and local schools during this difficult time.

If you or someone you know needs help, the following resources are available:

• Kids Help Phone: Text 686868
• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Available for anyone feeling overwhelmed or concerned about someone else.
• BC Mental Health Supports: http://www2.gov.bc.ca
• Nelson Victim Services: 250-505-5657
  

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Quesnel RCMP Sergeant Clay Kronebusch says it happened at around 7:41 p.m.

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Water has been shut off for properties on 10th Avenue between Cedar Street and Alder Street, as crews work on water service repairs.

According to the City of Campbell River, crews are working on site and affected properties will be without water service until repairs are complete.

The city said residents in the surrounding area may notice water discolouration, but noted it is only an aesthetic issue.

“If you are not in the shutoff area and notice discoloured or cloudy water, please run your cold water taps until the water clears,” the city said in a release.

Residents looking for updates can visit the City of Campbell River’s website or social media channels.

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In the wake of yesterday’s (Tuesday) tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge, local government’s took to their social media pages to share their support to those affected.

“On behalf of Mayor and Council and District of 100 Mile House staff, we extend our thoughts to the victims, their families and all those impacted, and wish the community of Tumbler Ridge strength and healing during this incredibly difficult time.”

The City of Williams Lake shared the same support on behalf of Mayor and Council and also stated “We are holding our northern neighbours in our hearts following the tragic events at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.”

And the City of Quesnel stated they are profoundly saddened by the tragic events that occurred in Tumbler Ridge yesterday.

“We stand with communities across the country in mourning and remain committed to supporting our neighbours in every way we can during the difficult days ahead.”

Flags have been lowered to half-mast in all 3 Cariboo communities to honor the victims.

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RCMP said the suspect in Tuesday’s deadly shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., had previous interactions with police related to her mental health and firearms had previously been seized from the home.

B.C. RCMP provided an update Wednesday on the investigation into the shootings that left nine people dead in the small northeastern B.C. community.

Police said the victims of the shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School included a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old girls and two boys aged 12 and 13.

A 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old woman were also airlifted to hospital Tuesday, and RCMP said they remain in serious condition.

Two other victims were found at a local home: a 39-year-old woman and an 11-year-old boy. Police said they were the mother and stepbrother of the suspect, identified as 18-year-old Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar.

Police said Van Rootselaar was found dead at the school from a self-inflicted wound. They said two firearms — a long gun and a modified handgun — were recovered by officers.

“Determining the origin of these firearms and what role they played in the shootings remains a significant part of the active and ongoing investigation,” said B.C. RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald.

McDonald said police had gone to Van Rootselaar’s home on multiple occasions over the past several years related to mental health concerns.

McDonald said she had been apprehended “on different occasions” for assessment under the Mental Health Act. He could not confirm whether she was receiving mental health treatment at the time of the shootings.

He confirmed firearms had previously been seized from Van Rootselaar’s home under the Criminal Code. He said the firearms had been returned following a petition from their legal owner, though he did not indicate who that legal owner was.

RCMP said they received a report of the shooting at the school at about 1:20 p.m. PT Tuesday. Officers arrived within two minutes of the initial call, police said.

There was active gunfire when officers arrived and rounds were fired in the direction of police as they approached the school, RCMP said.

When officers entered the school, they found multiple victims dead throughout the building, including the suspect.

More than 100 students and staff were evacuated to a local community centre, police said. About 25 people with possible injuries were taken to a local medical clinic for assessment, while the two victims with serious injuries were airlifted to other hospitals.

Police initially said Tuesday that 10 people were killed but corrected the number to nine on Wednesday.

They said it was initially believed that one female victim with significant injuries had died on her way to hospital, but police have since confirmed that is not the case, and she is one of two who remain in serious condition.

A GoFundMe page said a 12-year-old girl named Maya is in critical care at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. According to the page, the girl is suffering from damage caused by two gunshot wounds to the head and neck. The page has raised more than $93,000 for the family so far.

The Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Committee and other local officials have also launched a GoFundMe to support the families affected by the shooting. They said the funds will go toward covering unexpected expenses for the families and help support ongoing recovery efforts in the community.

The B.C. Major Crime Unit has assumed conduct of the investigation.

— With files from Darin Bain, Tavi Dhillon, Brendan Pawliw and Emily Joveski

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Concerns about biosecurity in North Cowichan have led council to not endorse a recommendation to permit backyard chickens on residential lots. 

Councillor Chris Justice is the chair of the agriculture committee, and he said after the committee met on Jan. 20 there were several conditions council would have to consider before making a bylaw. 

“The municipality needs to consider sanitation, public health issues, and we’d have to look at potential nuisance, noise violations and animal welfare,” he said. “We also need to decide how to enforce it.” 

Despite all the concerns mentioned during the debate, Justice said the biggest concern now is biosecurity. While it might not have been an issue in the past, it is something the committee is taking seriously. 

“Poultry diseases are circulating widely in wild birds, and the argument is that anyone can regularly interact with backyard flocks. This includes commercial flocks,” he said. “Amateur chicken keeps may unintentionally increase those risks through allowing contact between wild birds, equipment and inconsistent hygiene products.” 

According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, last year there was an outbreak of avian influenza in the Comox Valley that led to the establishment of a control zone, and Justice said there is concern about future cases and how that could impact the region. 

“An outbreak of avian influenzas on Vancouver Island could be highly disruptive, if not disastrous, and this could result in mandatory culling of backyard and commercial culling,” he said. “This could also have an impact on wildlife and have economic impacts.” 

Council had discussions with staff regarding opening public engagement to get feedback on amending the bylaw, and as councillor Bruce Findlay said, the community wants it and several areas have already allowed backyard chickens. 

Findlay said opening engagement will take more time and draw out the process, and North Cowichan should grant the bylaw as several areas already have. 

“Duncan, Lake Cowichan, the CVRD and Victoria all allow backyard chickens, and we’re one of the few communities that don’t allow it,” Findlay said. “It seems a bit silly to wait, the strategic agricultural plan might not be done while this council is here, so I don’t think it makes sense to wait.” 

Council ultimately voted to direct any future considerations on backyard chickens to refer back to the agricultural committee for engagement in the upcoming strategic review. 

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The clean-up of the old Knight’s Hall has wrapped up and was completed under budget.

Council has approved up to $1.29 million for the demolition and surface clean-up of the property, including $500,000 for RDEK landfill tipping fees and hazardous materials management.

The contractor started the clean-up in late November and finished work in mid-January.

“City staff wasted no time getting going on the cleanup of the Knight’s Hall property once it transferred ownership to the City last October,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

“Cleaning up this site has created a significant visual improvement for Cranbrook after so many years, thanks to the hard work of our staff and our contractor.”

City staff said they were able to minimize the amount of material hauled to the landfill and successfully recycled a significant amount of tested clean concrete and bricks.

Those will be be crushed and used for roadbed repairs in the city.

Since they are able to recycle a significant amount, the final cost of the clean-up was only $830,000.

The city will be weighing next steps for the property.

That includes possible sale as is, or moving to the next level of environmental review and cleanup prior to selling a fully remediated and clean site.

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Trail mayor Colleen Jones has issued condolences to Tumbler Ridge on behalf of city council and residents following Monday’s shooting deaths.

“I can’t begin to imagine what the families in Tumbler Ridge are going through,” she wrote on Facebook.

“As a mom, a grandmother and as Mayor of a small community, this one hits close to home. Our hearts are with the families who are grieving, the students and staff who experienced something no one ever should and the entire Tumbler Ridge community as they face the days ahead.

“From Trail to Tumbler Ridge, we are thinking of you. We are holding you in our hearts and sending strength as you begin to heal.”

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Fernie council has given three readings to a bylaw that will allow for more public input during council meetings.

One of the changes revolves around the public participation period (PPP) suspension.

The existing bylaws suspends the PPP for six months prior to a general local government election or bi-election.

Council had expressed concerns over that amount of time and the updated bylaw will change that to two months prior.

Another change will allow more freedom for what residents can bring up during council meetings.

Before they could only bring up topics that were in that nights council docket.

The change will allow discussion on any items in the docket and in the minutes attached in the council agenda.

The city will also scrap the fifteen minute PPP window as it is already not typically adhered to.

It will be upped to 45 minutes but enforced more consistently.

The bylaw will be up for adoption at a future meeting.

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The region’s MLAs are offering their condolences to the families affected by the shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northern British Columbia, which has claimed the lives of nine people,” said Kootenay Rockies MLA Pete Davis.

“This horrific act of violence has shocked our province and devastated a close-knit community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, students, and staff affected by this unimaginable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone grieving during this incredibly difficult time. This is a terrible tragedy, and we stand with the people of Tumbler Ridge.”

Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis offered similar sentiments.

“After almost a year and a half, today is the first day I am not excited to come to work. The tragedy in Tumbler Ridge is just awful. I know as a teacher and a parent with a son in high school it’s hard to be 1,000 kilometres from home today,” he said.

“To everybody in Tumbler Ridge, school staff, parents, first responders, on behalf of everybody in Columbia River-Revelstoke, I just want to send our love, prayers and support. There is no words for the unimaginable grief that your community is going through. There is no words for this.”

More information on the shooting can be found here.

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Unlike past years, Fernie residents won’t be able to take advantage of the five per cent annual-payment utility discount.

Previously the property owners who paid their full annual utility bill before Feb. 28 would get a five per cent discount.

The city has scrapped the discount citing that the financial benefit is no longer there.

City staff said the program was introduced during a time when interest rates were much higher and the financial benefit helped offset the reduced revenue.

Now that interest rates are lower, the city doesn’t see a financial advantage and continuing the program would cost $20,000 each year.

That would be recovered through utility fees.

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Nanaimo Search and Rescue will get a funding boost from the Regional District of Nanaimo. 

Carly Trobridge from Nanaimo SAR presented to the RDN board on Feb. 10, where she asked for a one-time grant and an annual increase to the team’s funding. 

The one-time grant of $60,000 will cover operating costs for 2026 and will allow the search and rescue team to replace an old generator for its command vehicle. 

The RDN voted to also increase annual funding from $30,000 to $80,000. 

Trobridge said the annual funding increase will keep the team on track to replace its swift-water rescue truck in three to five years. She noted it is costing between $6,000 and $13,000 to keep operational as it ages and that it will cost between $200,000 and $300,000 to replace. 

“Nanaimo Search and Rescue performs an amazing service for our residents and they are a group of volunteers and so I think it behooves us to do everything we can to support them, particularly in light of it being capital that they are really struggling with. They need a truck and they need a generator,” said director Erin Hemmins as she made the motion to grant the extra funding. 

Trobridge said Nanaimo SAR is one of the busiest search and rescue teams to date in B.C. this year. 

Last year the team provided 400 man-hours at the Cameron Lake wildfire, searched for seven missing minors, assisted with multiple injuries on Mount Benson and searched for a missing mountain biker in the Doumont area. 

There were 56 tasks for the search and rescue team in 2025 and so far this year it has responded to 12. 

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Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast communities are standing in solidarity with Tumbler Ridge following Tuesday’s mass shooting in northern British Columbia.

Several local governments are flying flags at their municipal offices at half-mast on Wednesday while some communities will keep their flags lowered for several days.

The City of Campbell River said flags at city hall will fly at half-mast until Feb. 17. A statement from the city said: “Flags are flying at half-mast at City of Campbell River facilities to honour the victims of the tragic school shooting in British Columbia’s Peace Region on February 10, 2026, and to show support for the community of Tumbler Ridge. Flags will remain at half-mast until February 17. The City is profoundly saddened and shocked by these events. On behalf of City Council and Campbell River residents, we offer heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. We hold the students, staff, and everyone impacted in our thoughts during this heartbreaking time.The City stands in solidarity with the people of Tumbler Ridge and deeply appreciates the first responders for their bravery and dedication.”

The Town of Comox has also lowered its flags at town hall. Mayor Nicole Minions issued the following statement via social media: “The Town of Comox is standing in solidarity with the District of Tumbler Ridge, B.C. today. Our nation, province and families have your community in our hearts this evening and in the difficult days ahead. The flag will be lowered to half-mast tomorrow to recognize the lives that were tragically lost.”

In Powell River, the city issued a salute to first responders in Tumbler Ridge in a statement: “The City of Powell River is deeply saddened by yesterday’s tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. We stand in solidarity with the community during this profoundly difficult time and extend our sincere condolences to everyone affected. We also wish to express our gratitude to the emergency responders and medical staff, and all those supporting the response.”

The District of Sechelt has issued a statement and lowered its flags at municipal hall. “Municipal communities share a deep sense of responsibility for the well being of the people we serve, and we recognize the immense impact an event of this magnitude has on a community’s sense of safety, connection and resilience. We admire the strength and compassion Tumbler Ridge has already shown in supporting one another.”

In Port Hardy, the district is reminding residents affected by the shooting to reach out for help if needed, and flags have been lowered at Duncan City Hall.

Meanwhile, Island Health said it is available to support as well. “Right now, it’s important to check in with one another and ourselves,” reads a statement from the health authority. “If you need someone to talk to, reach out, you’re not alone.”

– Article includes files from Island Health, City of Duncan, District of Sechelt, City of Powell River, Town of Comox and City of Campbell River

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Kootenay Lake School District 8 is expressing sorrow and empathy following Tuesday’s shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge.

“There are no words to express the level of shock, sorrow and concern we feel for the children, families, staff and community members of Tumbler Ridge,” board of education chair Susan Chew said in a statement.

“Tumbler Ridge is a small, rural community, much like many of the communities we serve in SD8. When something like this happens, it resonates deeply. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.”

All SD8 schools are flying flags at half-mast this week in respect for the lives lost.

“Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of children and the adults who care for them,” said Superintendent Trish Smillie.

“Tragic events can affect children, youth and adults in different ways, even when there is no direct connection to the community involved. Withdrawal, sadness, anger and other emotional responses are normal reactions. Reactions may vary by age, past experiences and other factors.”

Smillie added that the well-being of students and staff remains the district’s top priority. Meetings are taking place in all SD8 schools and district offices to share information and resources related to school safety and mental health and to provide opportunities for staff to support each other.

The district emphasized that staff are trained to respond promptly and effectively to critical incidents. Schools and worksites regularly conduct drills for emergencies, including fires, lockdowns and hold-and-secure procedures.

The district said it will continue to focus on school safety and caring for students and staff in the weeks ahead.

For more information, families are encouraged to contact their school principal.

Want to get your business noticed? Have you considered advertising through your local radio station? Speak to one of our sales agents and find out how radio advertising can boost your business today. Call 250-365-7600 or email Vista Radio.

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A new program being introduced by Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) will bring some friendly faces into the terminal. 

Y-Q-Cuties is a program that will bring trained dog-and-handler teams into the terminal to interact with passengers, offering calm, friendly companionship for those who may feel anxious or overwhelmed before their journey. 

CEO Mike Atkins said air travel can be an emotional experience, whether it’s for a vacation or travelling for work. 

“This program is a simple but meaningful way to create a calmer, more human airport experience and help travellers start their journey on a positive note.” 

The program is being delivered in partnership with Freedom Paws Canada, a nationally recognized organization that provides highly trained service and therapy dog teams to support individuals and communities across the country. 

“This comfort dog initiative operates separately from our psychological service dog training program, giving us the opportunity to share the calming presence of our dogs with the broader community,” said Freedom Paws Canada executive director Barb Ashmead. 

Pet visits will take place periodically throughout the terminal, with clearly identified teams available to interact with travellers of all ages. 

The first team launches Feb. 11, and dog teams will be scheduled each week year-round. 

The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible for passengers, though participation is entirely optional. 

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The 55-year-old man who was reported missing to the Quesnel RCMP on Friday, January 2, 2026, was located on Friday, February 6, 2026, and sadly is deceased.

Police do not suspect criminality, and the investigation has been turned over to the BC Coroners Service.

The Quesnel RCMP wishes to thank the public for their assistance and extend their condolences to the family during this difficult time.

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Reaction to yesterday’s (Tuesday) shootings in Tumbler Ridge that left 10 people dead has been expressed across the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District.

“A sad day for the people of Tumbler Ridge. On behalf of my family, we send our condolences and prayers to the families and community for your tragic losses,” said Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Ellis Ross on Facebook.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the unimaginable tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. My prayers go out for the victims, their families and the community,” said Bulkley Valley-Stikine MLA Sharon Hartwell.

My wife and I are heartbroken. We are praying for the people of Tumbler Ridge and for every family whose lives have been forever changed by this tragedy.

There are no words that can truly ease this kind of pain. The grief is heavy. The shock is real. The anger many are feeling…

— John Rustad (@JohnRustad4BC) February 11, 2026

The Town of Smithers, District of Houston, and Village of Burns Lake have confirmed it will be flying flags at half mast outside town hall in memory of the victims.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Tumbler Ridge in the face of the terrible tragedy that’s fallen on that community,” said Smithers Mayor Gladys Atrill.

“Small towns are like one big family — when one community hurts, we all feel it. From the Village of Telkwa, we stand with you in strength, care, and solidarity,” Telkwa posted on its Facebook page.

“We recognize the deep shock and profound impact this has had on students, families, educators, and the broader northern British Columbia community, particularly in small communities where connections run deep,” said Burns Lake Mayor Henry Wiebe.

The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako said, “We recognize the courage and compassion shown by first responders, healthcare and education professionals, and the community members who acted swiftly and with extraordinary dedication.”

“We express our heartfelt condolences as we hold the victims and their families in our thoughts and grieve with the community during this devastating time,” the regional district added.

School Districts 54 (Bulkley Valley) and 91 (Nechako Lakes) have both released statements confirming counsellors and staff will be available to help support students following the events.

“On behalf of our entire school district, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and community members who are grieving this unimaginable loss,” said SD54 Superintendent Mike McDiarmid.

“Our thoughts are also with the students, school staff, first responders, and all members of the community as they navigate this incredibly difficult time,” said SD91 on Facebook.

The Smithers and Houston chambers of commerce also shared reaction to the shootings.

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In the wake of yesterday’s (Tuesday) tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge, organizations in northern B.C. are giving out supports to those affected.

School District 59 (Peace River South) said they have a space at the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre for the school community to attend over the next few days and as needed.

It said all is welcome to attend, and mental health professionals will be present to provide support.

More information can be found here.

The Prince George Hospice and Palliative Care Society put in a Facebook post different ways to support kids, including acknowledging their feelings, and giving reassurance.

The Society will also be holding afternoon virtual grief support gatherings from today (Wednesday) until Tuesday, starting at 2:00.

They add that those needing support can also call their office at 250-563-2551.

Northern Health also took to Facebook, listing different resources for those affected.

School District 57 put out a response, providing mental health supports including:

• 310-Mental Health (BC Mental Health Support Line) – 310-6789 (no area code required)
• Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free, 24/7) or text CONNECT to 686868 for 24/7 text support

The School District said it’ll continue to share additional resources on its webpage as they become available.

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A 12-year-old girl from Tumbler Ridge is fighting for her life at Vancouver Children’s Hospital following’s yesterday’s shooting that killed 10 people and injured 25 others.

A Go Fund Me has been launched for Maya who is in critical care.

According to the post, doctors are trying to repair damage from a pair of gunshot wounds to the head and neck.

So far, over 48-grand has been raised.

A link to the page can be found here.

In addition, a second Go Fund me has begun. This one is in support of the families impacted by the tragedy. You can find the link here.

On Tuesday, Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20pm.

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene, which last for roughly four hours.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, were located deceased inside the school.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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“We are trying to support everyone we can through this.”

That is from Reverend Gerald Krauss from the New Life Assembly Church in Tumbler Ridge following yesterday’s (Tuesday) mass shooting in the South Peace community.

Krauss told Vista Radio the tight-knit community has been rocked to its core after this tragic incident.

“We didn’t want to be known for something like this. We are known for a destination and to be outdoors. It’s just a beautiful location and it’s going to change our town forever now.”

“This is a very small town where everyone knows everyone so it is quite a tragic thing that has taken place here and it affects every person in town.”

Krause and his wife wasted little time in assisting the community after being notified of the active shooter alert.

“People were calling and we left the church and went down to the community centre as all of the children were coming into the hockey arena along with the parents and everyone was looking for their children.”

“Everyone had met at the hockey arena after the elementary school kids were at their lockdown and everyone from the high school came into the community centre and that is where people contacted each other.”

The shooting claimed the lives of nine people plus the shooter.

“Devastation is probably not a strong enough wrong word.”

Peace River South Conservative MLA Larry Neufeld is in Tumbler Ridge today (Wednesday) following Tuesday’s mass shooting.

Neufeld stated a tragedy such as this is a non-partisan matter and is grateful for the support shown from his colleagues across the floor.

“This tragedy is about the victims and the families of the victims and politics does not play a part in this.”

“This doesn’t happen in rural B.C., this doesn’t happen in a beautiful community such as this and it doesn’t happen in my back yard.”

Flags at Parliament, and all federal or provincial government offices in B.C., will fly at half-mast.

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The Prince George RCMP is looking for 50-year-old Gregory Glenn Pashe.

He is wanted on three unendorsed warrants for the following:

• Theft under $5000 (four counts)
• Obstruction of peace officer
• Fail to comply with undertaking

Pashe is described as:

• Indigenous male
• 5’11 (180 cm)
• 230 lb (104 kg)
• Black hair
• Brown eyes
• Scar on back of head
• Scar on forehead
• Scar near left eye
• Scar on right forearm

He is considered dangerous and should not be approached. If you locate him, contact your local police immediately.

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“We are trying to support everyone we can through this.”

That is from Reverend Gerald Krauss from the New Life Assembly Church in Tumbler Ridge following yesterday’s (Tuesday) mass shooting in the South Peace community.

Krauss told Vista Radio the tight-knit community has been rocked to its core after this tragic incident.

“We didn’t want to be known for something like this. We are known for a destination and to be outdoors. It’s just a beautiful location and it’s going to change our town forever now.”

“This is a very small town where everyone knows everyone so it is quite a tragic thing that has taken place here and it affects every person in town.”

Krause and his wife wasted little time in assisting the community after being notified of the active shooter alert.

“People were calling and we left the church and went down to the community centre as all of the children were coming into the hockey arena along with the parents and everyone was looking for their children.”

“Everyone had met at the hockey arena after the elementary school kids were at their lockdown and everyone from the high school came into the community centre and that is where people contacted each other.”

The shooting claimed the lives of nine people plus the shooter.

“Devastation is probably not a strong enough wrong word.”

Peace River South Conservative MLA Larry Neufeld is in Tumbler Ridge today (Wednesday) following Tuesday’s mass shooting.

Neufeld stated a tragedy such as this is a non-partisan matter and is grateful for the support shown from his colleagues across the floor.

“This tragedy is about the victims and the families of the victims and politics does not play a part in this.”

“This doesn’t happen in rural B.C., this doesn’t happen in a beautiful community such as this and it doesn’t happen in my back yard.”

Flags at Parliament, and all federal or provincial government offices in B.C., will fly at half-mast.

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A 12-year-old girl from Tumbler Ridge is fighting for her life at Vancouver Children’s Hospital following’s yesterday’s shooting that killed 10 people and injured 25 others.

A Go Fund Me has been launched for Maya who is in critical care.

According to the post, doctors are trying to repair damage from a pair of gunshot wounds to the head and neck.

So far, over 48-grand has been raised.

A link to the page can be found here.

In addition, a second Go Fund me has begun. This one is in support of the families impacted by the tragedy. You can find the link here.

On Tuesday, Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20pm.

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene, which last for roughly four hours.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, were located deceased inside the school.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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The College Heights Cougars Senior Boys and the Duchess Park Condors Senior Girls are Prince George high school basketball City champions.

The Senior Boys final was very close with many lead changes as College Heights scored a 61-57 victory.

In the Senior Girls final, Duchess Park whipped Cedars Christian 69-17.

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A 12-year-old girl from Tumbler Ridge is fighting for her life at Vancouver Children’s Hospital following’s yesterday’s shooting that killed 10 people and injured 25 others.

A Go Fund Me has been launched for Maya who is in critical care.

According to the post, doctors are trying to repair damage from a pair of gunshot wounds to the head and neck.

So far, $5,500 has been raised with a fundraising goal of 15-grand.

A link to the page can be found here.

On Tuesday, Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20pm.

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene, which last for roughly four hours.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, were located deceased inside the school.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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The Castlegar and District Heritage Society is in the process of revitalizing and renewing the Castlegar Farmers Market for the 2026 season. The society says it is looking into some big changes this year.

“We will be joining the BC Farmers’ Market Association which is a huge step in the right direction to support a local food system, so this means we will participate in the coupon program,” incoming heritage society board member Erica Naso said in a news release.

The coupon program, sponsored by the BCFMA and subsidized in the Columbia Basin by the Columbia Basin Trust, requires that farmers’ markets partner with another community organization, such as a food bank, to disperse coupons that individuals and families who are low or no income, can use to buy healthy food from local growers at a farmers’ market. The heritage society is working with Castlegar Food Bank president Val Field to make this happen locally.

“We want our market to be gearing towards supporting local agriculture more than anything,” Naso says. “This means that the market will be shifting to more than 50 per cent food market which means we need the local food community to join and attend our market.”

The heritage society will also be looking at changing the market’s season to start in May rather than April as in past years, which is more in line with the local growing season.

In addition to vendors, the society will be offering education and workshops with space provided for relevant events. “We will be planning a few night markets in summer months with live music and fun activities for everyone,” Naso says.

Market organizers will also focus on advertising and promoting the market.  “The market has always been a place for people to gather,” says heritage society executive director Maggie Shirley. “We would love to see even more folks coming to support local growers, farmers and artists and to enjoy visiting with each other.”

BC Farmers’ Market Association has strict rules about who can participate in a farmers’ market but local market organizers say they recognize people who resell items need to make a living too. ”We are coming up with solutions to create an alternative market to run alongside the farmers market,” Naso says. She encourages everyone — farmers, growers, makers, resellers and flea marketers — to apply to participate in the market.

“We are working on vendor applications and policies as we speak.  We are also open to people wanting to join and help, volunteer and help us brainstorm to make a successful market,” Naso says.

If you are interested in being a vendor or participating in some way, contact the organizers at [email protected].

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Although some Trail city councillors say they’re willing to allow backyard hens and bees, they’ve decided to do some more homework first.

Councillor Nick Cashol was prepared to introduce amendments to the city’s animal control bylaw this week, but councillor Thea Hanson suggested additional research.

“I would appreciate a staff report on hens and the best practices in municipalities that have had done a trial run and have or have not gone forward, just so that we can make a very thoughtful, inclusive decision,” Hanson said. 

Hanson said one possibly little-known factor is that some property titles in Trail state they can’t have farm animals. “So I think we have to just look at the bigger, overarching [laws] that apply to title that I believe would supersede any bylaws,” she said.

Council agreed to seek more information, but staff said they probably won’t have time to report back on the matter before July.

Council recently heard from a couple of residents urging them to allow urban hens.

Changes to the city’s animal control bylaw are also expected to incorporate practices suggested by the BC SPCA, including requirements for basic standards of care, definitions and regulations for keeping aggressive and dangerous dogs, and expanded penalties.

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Former Smokie Teagan Kendrick continues to build on an impressive rookie season in the NCAA.

The Sacred Heart freshman was named Atlantic Hockey goaltender of the month for January.

The BCHL goaltender of the year last season went 5-3-1 in January with a 2.65 GAA and .926 SP.

The native of St. Albert, Alta. has an overall record this season of eight wins, six regulation losses and two overtime defeats with one shutout, a goals against average of 2.38 and a save percentage of .922.

Kendrick has also earned himself an NHL tryout.

He is being invited to the Nashville Predators development camp this summer.

The 21-year-old was also the Atlantic Hockey rookie and goaltender of the month for December.

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B.C. Premier David Eby, is asking British Columbians and Canadians to “wrap the people of Tumbler Ridge with love,” following Tuesday’s tragedy which saw at least ten people killed in a mass shooting in the community.

Eby says right now information is limited, and the RCMP has asked for patience as they investigate the incident.

“It’s hard to know what to say on a night like tonight, this is the kind of thing that feels like it happens in other places and not close to home in a way that this feels for so many British Columbians and Canadians,” he said.

“The devastation these families face, it’s just impossible to understand what they’re going through without going through it yourself.”

Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones.

Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy. https://t.co/nr0a6bjEyA

— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026

At the time of his news conference, Eby said police were unable to share details about the victims, as they were still reaching out to families.

Eby said he also spoke with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who shared grief.

“He is following this very closely, had received briefings from RCMP as well, and has offered any assistance the federal government can offer to the province in supporting the people of Tumbler Ridge going forward,” Eby said.

“I was very grateful for his outreach, he reached out right away, and his commitment to support British Columbians in this moment.”

I am devastated by today’s horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence.

I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed…

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026

 Eby said he was also able to speak with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who offered assistance through health care.

“Tumbler Ridge is close to the border, and a major regional healthcare centre is there in Grande Prairie, very grateful to the Albertans who offered to step up and provide support in this moment as well,” he said.

He added his government will make sure resources are there for the community, and he expects to be up to Tumbler Ridge as soon as possible.

Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger says trauma-informed counsellors are being sent to the region to support families.

“The School District will be making supports available, and once we have locations for where these supports will be, the District will share that information on social media,” she said.

“We will be making sure services are available to members of the broader community who need it as well.”

According to Krieger, RCMP were on the scene in less than two minutes, and there was also an additional response from surrounding communities.

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RCMP say ten people have died following a school shooting in Tumbler Ridge B.C., which is located about 400 kilometres north east of Prince George.

Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School  around 1:20 this afternoon (Mountain Time Tuesday).

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene.

This alert was officially cancelled at 5:45 p.m., as police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects or ongoing threat to the public.

As part of the initial response to the active shooting, police entered the school to locate the threat.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, have been located deceased inside the school.

Two victims have been airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.

Police say a third victim died while being transported to hospital.

Roughly 25 others are being assessed and triaged at the local medical centre for non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP say all remaining students and staff were safely evacuated, and police are working closely with the School District to support a coordinated reunification process for families.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police say they’ve identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

Police are conducting further searches to determine if anyone else may have been injured or otherwise linked to the incident.

The RCMP says additional resources are being deployed to the community to support the response and investigation.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” said North District Superintendent Ken Floyd in a news release.

“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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Following the tragic shooting in Tumbler Ridge this (Tuesday) afternoon, Northern Health issued a statement.

According to the statement “On the afternoon of Tuesday, February 10, Northern Health and the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre were notified of an active police response in the community, and the potential for the health centre to receive patients from the incident scene. 

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Smithers council approved its strategic priorities list for 2026 during tonight’s (Tuesday) meeting.

The only project expected to be complete this year was phase two of the airport water system.

Other major projects included on the list were:

• Rosenthal Road Riverbank Stabilization
• CN Line Watermain Replacement
• Princess Street Upgrades
• Airport Contaminated Land Phase Three Cleanup
• Airside Lighting and Electrical Upgrade

Council also approved its list of future projects with the largest being a new water treatment plant, expected to cost $20 million and be complete in 2029.

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The City of Prince George issued a statement tonight (Tuesday), extending its condolences to those affected by the shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

According to the statement, the City said “Mayor and Council share your grief, and are heartbroken for our fellow northern BC community in the wake of this senseless tragedy. The City wants everyone in Tumbler Ridge to know that the people of Prince George are with you.

On behalf of Council and the City of Prince George, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and all those affected by this event. Our hearts are with the District of Tumbler Ridge community, including Mayor Darryl Krakowka and Council, during this difficult time. We stand with you in grief and shock and offer our unwavering support.

The City of Prince George stands in solidarity with all those impacted, and we thank the frontline workers, RCMP, ambulance workers, medics, and everyone involved for their hard work. Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, school staff and students, and all those affected by this devastating event.”

More details can be found here.

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B.C. Premier David Eby, is asking British Columbians and Canadians to “wrap the people of Tumbler Ridge with love,” following Tuesday’s tragedy which saw at least ten people killed in a mass shooting in the community.

Eby says right now information is limited, and the RCMP has asked for patience as they investigate the incident.

“It’s hard to know what to say on a night like tonight, this is the kind of thing that feels like it happens in other places and not close to home in a way that this feels for so many British Columbians and Canadians,” he said.

“The devastation these families face, it’s just impossible to understand what they’re going through without going through it yourself.”

Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones.

Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy. https://t.co/nr0a6bjEyA

— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026

At the time of his news conference, Eby said police were unable to share details about the victims, as they were still reaching out to families.

Eby said he also spoke with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who shared grief.

“He is following this very closely, had received briefings from RCMP as well, and has offered any assistance the federal government can offer to the province in supporting the people of Tumbler Ridge going forward,” Eby said.

“I was very grateful for his outreach, he reached out right away, and his commitment to support British Columbians in this moment.”

I am devastated by today’s horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence.

I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed…

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026

 Eby said he was also able to speak with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who offered assistance through health care.

“Tumbler Ridge is close to the border, and a major regional healthcare centre is there in Grande Prairie, very grateful to the Albertans who offered to step up and provide support in this moment as well,” he said.

He added his government will make sure resources are there for the community, and he expects to be up to Tumbler Ridge as soon as possible.

Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger says trauma-informed counsellors are being sent to the region to support families.

“The School District will be making supports available, and once we have locations for where these supports will be, the District will share that information on social media,” she said.

“We will be making sure services are available to members of the broader community who need it as well.”

According to Krieger, RCMP were on the scene in less than two minutes, and there was also an additional response from surrounding communities.

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Williams Lake City Council to put a substantial dent in its overall debt.

The City of Williams Lake has an overall debt of $1,909,685.93 at the start of 2026.

Council unanimously approved using $1,147,158.39 from the City’s reserves to clear a debt acquired from the Mackenzie Avenue Rehabilitation from 2018. Five years earlier than the lending date in April 2031.

City Councillor Scott Nelson was pleased with the decision.

“We’re not talking dollars here; we’re talking millions of dollars that this council has undertaken over the last four years in terms of infrastructure and capital expenditures, but also for debt repayment. By paying this down tonight, we are close to being a debt-free community.”

Nelson added that with this considerable portion of the City’s debt cleared, the community is very close to being completely debt-free, and could open the door for more capital opportunities.

City Staff noted the timing was right, as the interest rate would increase from 1.47 per cent to between 2.85 and 3.40 per cent in April of this year.

Councillor Joan Flaspohler said this decision saved the city from paying a considerable amount more over the next five years.

“It was going to increase, and the staff report states we would be paying $207,000 to $289,500 more in interest. We should take this opportunity because it doesn’t come very often when the rate gets reset that we can actually put money from our reserves towards this.”

With the approval, the City of Williams Lake’s remaining debt now sits at $762,527.54.

Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said that his goal, and he is sure the next future city council’s goal will be to continue to work towards becoming a debt-free community by 2031.

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School District 57 public board meeting came to an abrupt end this evening (Tuesday) after further details were released on the school shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

During the meeting, Superintendent Jameel Aziz announced 10 people had died, including the shooter, as well as around 25 others injured.

More details can be found here.

Aziz said staff will be getting together tonight and tomorrow morning to start preparing to support students and families.

“We may have parents who don’t want to send their children to school tomorrow until they have more clear answers.”

“All I can share is that we will have people in place to support staff and students across the District to make sure people have outlets and support for whatever grief or challenges they’re having, and we will do our very best across the system. we’ll also be looking to lend whatever support we can to that School District with whatever resources we can provide.”

Aziz noted with this being a system-wide tragedy, they will be spread fairly thin, but will do their best to provide that support.

The public board meeting has been postponed until further notice.

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RCMP say ten people have died following a school shooting in Tumbler Ridge B.C., which is located about 400 kilometres north east of Prince George.

Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School  around 1:20 this afternoon (Mountain Time Tuesday).

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene.

This alert was officially cancelled at 5:45 p.m., as police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects or ongoing threat to the public.

As part of the initial response to the active shooting, police entered the school to locate the threat.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, have been located deceased inside the school.

Two victims have been airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.

Police say a third victim died while being transported to hospital.

Roughly 25 others are being assessed and triaged at the local medical centre for non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP say all remaining students and staff were safely evacuated, and police are working closely with the School District to support a coordinated reunification process for families.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police say they’ve identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

Police are conducting further searches to determine if anyone else may have been injured or otherwise linked to the incident.

The RCMP says additional resources are being deployed to the community to support the response and investigation.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” said North District Superintendent Ken Floyd in a news release.

“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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RCMP say ten people have died following a school shooting in Tumbler Ridge B.C., which is located about 400 kilometres north east of Prince George.

Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School  around 1:20 this afternoon (Mountain Time Tuesday).

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene.

This alert was officially cancelled at 5:45 p.m., as police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects or ongoing threat to the public.

As part of the initial response to the active shooting, police entered the school to locate the threat.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, have been located deceased inside the school.

Two victims have been airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.

Police say a third victim died while being transported to hospital.

Roughly 25 others are being assessed and triaged at the local medical centre for non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP say all remaining students and staff were safely evacuated, and police are working closely with the School District to support a coordinated reunification process for families.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police say they’ve identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

Police are conducting further searches to determine if anyone else may have been injured or otherwise linked to the incident.

The RCMP says additional resources are being deployed to the community to support the response and investigation.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” said North District Superintendent Ken Floyd in a news release.

“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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Sports by Hartley Wednesday, February 11th, 2026  as of 6:05 a.m.

Winter Games:

Canada has three medals following Tuesday’s competition in Milano Cortina, Italy; the Canadian mixed relay team captured silver in short track speed skating, freestyle skier Megan Oldham of Ontario took bronze in the women’s slopestyle and Quebec speedskater Valerie Maltais got a bronze in the women’s 3,000 metres.

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Prince George long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly placed 26th out of 30 in the 1000m race Monday at the 2026 Winter Games (Monday) in Milano Cortina. Her next event is the 500m on Sunday (8:00 AM PT).

Two other P.G. athletes will compete in Italy. Evan Bichon, who grew up in Mackenzie and attended high school in Prince George will hit the slopes in snowboard cross on Thursday (4:45am Pacific). Ski cross racer Gavin Rowell won’t participate until Saturday, Feb. 21st (1 AM PT).

Colby Graham of P.G. is an alternate on the men’s snowboard cross team.

Meryeta O’Dine of Prince George and Tess Cricthlow, who was born in P.G., were scheduled to compete in snowboarding events but due to injury were forced to pull out of Games.

–The Canadian women’s Olympic hockey team will play the USA today (Tuesday) after winning its opener 5-1 over Czechia.

Canada has three medals following Tuesday’s competition; the Canadian mixed relay team captured silver in short track speed skating, freestyle skier Megan Oldham of Ontario took bronze in the women’s slopestyle and Quebec speedskater Valerie Maltais got a bronze in the women’s 3,000 metres.

WHL:

The Prince George Cougars host the Kamloops Blazers Friday night before they head out on an 8-game road trip that begins Saturday in Kamloops.

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just two points ahead of the
(25-17-6-4) Blazers and three in front of the (26-17-5-2) Kelowna Rockets.

Prince George has just 17 games left in the regular season; 7 at home and 10 on the road.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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RCMP say multiple people have died following a school shooting in Tumbler Ridge B.C., which is located about 400 kilometres north east of Prince George.

Mounties received a report of an active shooter at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School  around 1:20 this afternoon (Mountain Time Tuesday).

A Police Initiated Public Alert was issued as officers responded to the scene.

This alert was officially cancelled at 5:45 p.m., as police do not believe there are any outstanding suspects or ongoing threat to the public.

As part of the initial response to the active shooting, police entered the school to locate the threat.

An individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased with what police say appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

According to police, six individuals, not including the suspect, have been located deceased inside the school.

Two victims have been airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.

Police say a third victim died while being transported to hospital.

Roughly 25 others are being assessed and triaged at the local medical centre for non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP say all remaining students and staff were safely evacuated, and police are working closely with the School District to support a coordinated reunification process for families.

As part of the ongoing investigation, police say they’ve identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence.

Police are conducting further searches to determine if anyone else may have been injured or otherwise linked to the incident.

The RCMP says additional resources are being deployed to the community to support the response and investigation.

The BC RCMP’s Major Crime unit has assumed conduct of the investigation, and is working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” said North District Superintendent Ken Floyd in a news release.

“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

-story by Darin Bain-MyPGNow

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After over 40 years in the community, Williams Lake’s ICBC Claims Centre will be closing its doors by the end of the month.

ICBC says it has decided not to renew the Claims Centre’s building lease agreement on Broadway Avenue. Saying it had too few customers going in-person to use the services, and most claims reports in the area have been submitted online, by phone, or by working directly with auto repair shops.

ICBC says the Claims Centre is already in the process of moving its services to the Service BC building located on Borland Street.

It also says there will be no loss of jobs or reduction of staff.

The change will not affect driver’s licensing, ID services, and road tests in the community.

The Claims Centre is scheduled to close on February 20; it first opened in 1982.

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Biathlon BC looked to the northern capital to find its next coach.

PG’s Ali Cadell will lead athletes on the new Canada Winter Games and Development Sqaud.

Cadell is filling in for Jessica Blenkarn who is on maternity leave.

Ali is a long-time head coach at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club with experience in provincial, national and international events.

“I’m thrilled to support Biathlon BC this season and excited to take a deeper role with the Canada Winter Games and the BC Development Squad. Being part of these programs has always inspired our family, and I’m eager to help athletes grow and succeed.” added Cadell.

The 2027 Canada Winter Games is slated for February 27th to March 14th in Quebec City.

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Mounties in Prince George have been cleared of wrongdoing in a collision that occurred nearly a year ago.

According to the Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO), the incident in question occurred in Prince George at around 10:20 on the evening of February 24, 2025.

RCMP Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a red Chevrolet pickup truck near 10th Avenue and Irwin Street.

The truck reportedly drove off, and was later involved in a collision with another vehicle near 15th Avenue and Highway 97.

The driver was arrested at the scene.

Paramedics attended and determined two occupants in the other vehicle had suffered serious injuries. They were taken to hospital.

Shortly after the incident, the IIO was notified and commenced an investigation.

The Chief Civilian Director has reviewed evidence collected by investigators, including medical evidence, video footage, witness statements and collision reports.

They have determined there are no reasonable grounds to believe an officer may have committed an offence.

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An active shooter alert was issued after a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, and anyone in or around the community is advised to stay indoors.

“We have no confirmation on the number of individuals injured or requiring assistance,” said the RCMP in a statement, where they confirmed the shooting took place at 1:20 this afternoon.

“Those in Tumbler Ridge area are asked to stay inside and shelter in place, lock your doors and refrain from leaving your home or business at this time,” the emergency alert sent throughout the Peace reads.

“The original suspect is believed to have been located deceased,” the Mounties’ statement says. In the alert sent nearly an hour before this update, they described this “original suspect” as a “female in a dress with brown hair.”

It is unclear if there are additional suspects, police said. To aid them in their search, additional resources from surrounding detachments, and the North District Emergency Response Team, are in Tumbler Ridge.

In response to this situation, Larry Neufeld, the MLA for Peace River South, which includes Tumbler Ridge, issued a statement. He assured residents he is in touch with the Solicitor General “to receive updates and to ensure all necessary provincial resources are being made available.”

“I am aware of the active shooter situation currently unfolding in Tumbler Ridge, and my thoughts are with residents as this situation continues to develop,” Neufeld said.

Residents should remain indoors as much as possible. Anyone who must venture out should avoid being on their phone, spot areas to seek cover if needed, and if attacked, they should call 9-1-1 as soon as it is safe to do so.

–Files by Tavi Dhillon, My Peace Region Now

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The Lower Kootenay Band is publicly opposing a town hall scheduled for Thursday in Creston and  hosted by OneBC Leader Dallas Brodie, citing concerns about residential school denialism and anti-Indigenous rhetoric.

Jason Louie, Nasuʔkin (chief) of Yaqan Nuʔkiy (Lower Kootenay Band), said the community’s concerns stem from Brodie’s public statements and online videos questioning claims surrounding unmarked graves at former residential school sites.

“Her videos and rhetoric speak for itself. We have a number of residential school survivors. Nobody on this planet can deny what happened in these residential schools. It’s pretty obvious. It’s outright disrespectful. It’s hate speech.”

The Ktunaxa Nation governments echoed those concerns in a statement issued this week calling on Brodie to resign from the B.C. Legislature and saying she is not welcome in Ktunaxa territory.

“We condemn residential school denialism and the divisive hateful statements made by MLA Dallas Brodie,” said ʔaq̓am Nasuʔkin Cheryl Casimer.

“Brodie is not welcome in ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa, specifically in Yaqan Nuʔkiy where she is scheduled to host a town hall. We call upon our allies to join us in stopping this nonsense from taking place. It’s harmful, disrespectful and unacceptable.”

The statement said Ktunaxa peoples continue to live with the trauma caused by residential schools and that Brodie’s rhetoric perpetuates the “pain and suffering of families still mourning the loss of children who were forcibly removed and did not return home from residential school.”

In response to Brodie’s visit, the Lower Kootenay Band and its allies are organizing a rally titled Rally for Peace, Justice and Belonging on Feb. 12. Louie said the demonstration will be peaceful and non-violent.

“The message of the rally is that Indigenous people are still here. The residential school era did happen, and there is an aftermath of that residential schools.”

He added that organizers are working closely with the RCMP to ensure safety, including traffic control measures along the highway near the event.

“We have been working with the RCMP from the moment we started planning this protest, this resistance,” said Louie.

“We are going to be not on the property, but we will be on the highway. The police are closing the highway to a single lane traffic, and we’re going to be a safe distance from them and they’re going to be a safe distance from us.”

Louie acknowledged safety concerns circulating about the protest, including calls for first aid supplies, and said that while the intent is peaceful, preparation is key.

“There’s always the possibility with any protests and anytime that there are any minority groups, marginalized groups, that there is always that possibility it could turn non-peaceful,” he said.

“It’s all about coming prepared. We also have nurses on hand if need be. And the RCMP also has their trained medics on hand. So hopefully we don’t need it. But if we do, we’re prepared for any incidents that might arise.”

Louie said the broader goal is visibility and solidarity.

“As far as the outcome goes, we’re going to be heard, we’re going to be seen, and we’re going to keep resisting.”

Brodie has denied dismissing the existence of residential schools or the harm they caused, saying her comments have focused on the need for evidence-based discussions about unmarked graves.

She has described opposition to her events as “censorship” and said disagreement is a fundamental part of politics.

Despite that, Louie said the situation has strained relationships with local businesses willing to host the event.

Brodie previously said the location of her town hall would not be disclosed to the public, after several local venues, including one owned by the regional district, refused to accept the booking.

However, rally organizers now believe its scheduled at the local hotel. Louie said it’s unfortunate the hotel chose to accept the booking, noting the Lower Kootenay Band has done business there before.

“The Lower Kootenay Band has been very generous with our buisness to the Ramada. For example the powwow weekend, that weekend alone in May we spend upward of $10,000 lodging our guests there throughout the year.”

But now that relationship is done, said Louie.

“We’re moving on. We’re going to bring our business elsewhere. We’re going to be treated with dignity and respect. But it’s just unfortunate that that establishment has chosen to go this route when the solution is simple. Just say you’re not available, the venue is not available.”

He added that it was unfortunate there was even a need for a rally, questioning why Brodie was coming to the valley.

“What the so-called town hall is doing is denying it [the aftermath of residential schools] and it’s outright hate speech. It’s rhetoric that is false. And there’s a huge difference between freedom of expression and hate speech,” said Louie.

“It’s just unfortunate that in 2026 that we’re even having to do this. We have an MLA for this riding. And why Dallas Brodie is here is beyond me when her riding is Kitsilano or wherever it is.”

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Smithers was one of seven communities selected to become partners for phase two in the province’s HEART to HEARTH initiative.

The program through BC Housing works with local governments and partners through homeless and encampment response teams (HEART) to help move people sheltering outdoors, indoors.

HEARTH stands for homeless and encampment response temporary housing solutions which provides emergency housing and sheltering options.

“The province is encouraged by the increasing number of local governments that are stepping up to collaborate to support vulnerable residents in their communities and end homelessness,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.

According to the province, work is being done to find opportunities for a HEARTH site.

“Our community has long advocated for support that reflects the realities of our small northern town, and it’s encouraging to see that commitment recognized,” said Smithers Mayor Gladys Atrill.

The town will be working with BC Housing to explore shelter option and increased outreached supports.

It added clear public engagement will be part of the process to find solutions which the community supports.

Also included in the phase two expansion were Cranbrook, New Westminster, Powell River, and Squamish.

In total, 15 communities are now part of the program.

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Dogs will not be allowed on Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville starting next week as part of seasonal restrictions tied to Black Brant geese migration. 

Beaches within the Parksville-Qualicum Beach Wildlife Management Area (PQBWMA) prohibit dogs during peak migration to reduce disturbance to the birds, the City of Parksville said in a news release. Rathtrevor Beach will be closed to dogs from Feb. 15 until April 30, and Parksville Bay Beach will be closed from March 1 until April 30. 

“The Black Brant geese you see along our shores are on a difficult journey of migration from California and Mexico to northern nesting grounds,” the city said. “Our beaches provide an abundant food source for Brant, which need to gain weight and strength before making another non-stop flight. Disturbance caused by something as simple as a child or dog running on the beach can have drastic effects on the geese while feeding.” 

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Some commuters will have to make an adjustment to their route later this week.

The City of Prince George will be closing 15th Avenue at Johnson Street on Thursday to conduct a water service repair.

This will take place between 6:30 am and 5:00 pm, impacting westbound traffic.

A detour will be in place along Johnson Street to 10th Avenue.

According to the City, the work being done involves replacing a water service installed in the 1960s.

As a result of the work, nearby properties may experience temporary changes in water pressure or sediment.

The City says the water is safe to drink, and residents are advised to run taps until water clears if discoloured.

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Another provincial championship is coming to the northern capital.

Curl BC is hosting the 2026 Stick Curling Championships starting tomorrow (Wednesday) at the PG Golf and Curling Club.

It runs until Sunday.

The championships will feature 24 teams competing in Women’s, Mixed, and Men’s curling categories, representing curling clubs from across the province.

Curl BC will be qualifying one team from each category to attend the 2026 Canadian Stick Curling Association National Championships March 25-29, in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

The Opening Ceremony will be held tomorrow evening from 6:00 – 6:30 pm.

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The Williams Lake Fire Department had a busy start to 2026.

Deputy Fire Chief Brendan Foote said members responded to a total of 34 calls for service compared to 38 in January of 2025.

Foote said the majority of those were for fire alarms.

In January the Williams Lake Fire Department also attended 8 burning complaints, 7 fire calls and 5 motor vehicle incidents.

In January of 2025 most the calls for service were for fire alarms (18), 10 burning complaints, 4 fire calls and 5 motor vehicle incidents.

Last December was much busier with the Williams Lake Fire Department receiving 46 calls for service.

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The Canadian Agricultural Review Tribunal has overturned a $10,000 penalty issued to Universal Ostrich Farm, ruling the Canadian Food Inspection Agency failed to properly serve a quarantine order following a December 2024 avian flu outbreak. 

The farm was issued a $10,000 penalty in January 2026 by the agency for failing to notify the CFIA of the initial outbreak. Tribunal chair Emily Crocco concluded upheld the penalty, ruling that the farm breached a section of the Health of Animals Act. 

However, tribunal member Patricia Farnese ruled on Feb. 6, 2026, that the penalty should be set aside, citing the CFIA’s failure to personally deliver the quarantine notice. 

“The Agency’s failure to personally deliver the quarantine notice as mandated by subsection 91.4 of the HA Regulations is fatal to its case,” Farnese wrote. 

Farnese found the CFIA initially sent the farm a quarantine notice by email on Dec. 31, 2024, after verbally informing the farm of the quarantine requirement. 

The notice was amended several times and repeatedly emailed to the farm and later to its lawyer. 

However, a physical copy of the amended notice was not delivered in person until Feb. 26, which Farnese ruled was improper. 

Under the Health of Animals Regulations, quarantine notices “shall be communicated by personal delivery.” Farnese ruled that wording requires a physical, hand-delivered notice and does not include service by email. 

“The Agency proposes a definition of personal delivery that includes service by email. This definition, however, is inconsistent with the plain and ordinary meaning of personal delivery and Parliament’s intent. A notice sent by email is not personal delivery,” the decision states. 

The tribunal also rejected the CFIA’s argument that emailing the notice to the farm’s lawyer satisfied notification requirements, noting the regulations do not allow for alternative methods of service or exceptions for delivery through legal counsel. 

Farnese also dismissed the CFIA’s claims that winter conditions, the farm’s remote location or the presence of protesters made personal delivery impractical. 

The ruling said evidence showed CFIA staff accessed the property multiple times during the period in question. 

“The Agency’s evidence shows that staff made multiple visits to the property to conduct inspections and monitor the quarantine,” the decision reads. 

“In fact, videos submitted by the Agency to the Tribunal show protesters livestreaming from Universal’s property during this period. Although snow is visible, the road appears to be plowed and persons are outside under sunny blue skies.” 

Farnese also found no evidence the farm waived its right to personal delivery or that exceptional circumstances justified an exception to the requirement. 

The tribunal emphasized quarantine notices are treated differently from other animal health communications under federal law because they trigger immediate disease-control measures. 

“Personal delivery allows the Agency to immediately assess the gravity of the disease threat, the person’s capacity to effectively quarantine, and/or their willingness to comply with the quarantine order,” the decision states, adding that email service “defeats these purposes entirely.” 

Because the notice was improperly served, Farnese ruled it was unnecessary to consider whether the farm breached quarantine conditions. 

“Without proper service of the quarantine notice, any contraventions alleged to have occurred between February 6 and February 26 cannot stand,” Farnese wrote. 

The notice of violation and the $10,000 penalty were set aside. 

Want to get your business noticed? Have you considered advertising through your local radio station? Speak to one of our sales agents and find out how radio advertising can boost your business today. Call 250-365-7600 or email Vista Radio.

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A name change could be coming to Mill Bay Nature School, and the Cowichan Valley School District has directed staff to start the process to see if it is feasible. 

Assistant superintendent Jeff Rowan said the Parents Advisory Committee made the request during a Feb. 3 meeting, but added there are still regulations to adhere to before any changes are made. 

“The board received this request and has directed staff to start a process to consult with all stakeholders and see if there is interest,” he said. “This is very preliminary and there will be more to come if there is enough interest going forward.” 

According to a district report, the request came from the PAC because some parents in the community have expressed concern over the school’s current name. 

“Many noted that it’s misleading, confusing and blurs the school’s identity, especially following changes made last year,” the report said. 

The PAC said dropping the word “Nature” would provide clarity and would not deter the style of education offered at the school. 

“The school will still continue to support land-based practices and learning, while ensuring the school’s name clearly reflects its identity,” the PAC said. 

There is no clear indication as to when, or if, the change will take effect. 

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The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) has issued its fifth Emergency Operations Centre update stemming from January’s localized flooding event.  

The CVRD said the Resiliency Centre will open Tuesday, Feb. 10 from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Tsolum Building in Courtenay.  

After Wednesday, residents are asked to call 250-780-8807 and leave a message to book an appointment.

All calls will be returned within one business day, the update said.  

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The City of Cranbrook will be working with the province to explore options for a HEARTH site.

The HEART and HEARTH program offer support for residents experiencing homelessness.

HEART works to assess the needs of people in encampments quickly and to provide rapid access to support services.

HEARTH sites provide emergency housing and sheltering options.

“Communities are stronger and safer for everyone when we bring people indoors to safe housing, so they have better opportunities to connect to the supports and services they need to bring stability to their lives,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.

“The Province is encouraged by the increasing number of local governments that are stepping up to collaborate to support vulnerable residents in their communities and end homelessness.”

BC Housing will be working with the city to explore a future HEARTH site.

“The City of Cranbrook is grateful that Minister Boyle recognizes the homelessness challenges facing regional service communities like ours,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

“Being considered for this opportunity reflects that understanding and offers renewed hope for those experiencing homelessness and for the overall well‑being of our community.”

More information on the HEART and HEARTH program can be found here.

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The District of Sparwood is developing a time capsule and is now accepting submissions from the public.

The capsule will be placed in 2026 and will be opened 40 years later to celebrate Sparwood’s 100th anniversary.

Paper submissions must be on eight by 11.5 inch acid-free paper or smaller with a maximum of 10 pages per submission.

Physical items can be no larger than four inches by four inches by two inches.

District staff said the opportunity is open for individuals, families, businesses, schools, service groups, churches and community organizations.

This new time capsule will capture messages, memories and reflections of the community in 2026.

All submissions must include a completed time capsule submission form.

Every submission will be vetted by the district.

Items will be accepted until April 30.

The capsule will likely be placed in or around the Titan truck and a community time capsule placement event will be announced in the future.

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Cranbrook Fire and Emergency Services responded to 587 calls for service in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Fire chief Scott Driver said call volumes are within normal seasonal ranges and that the total number of calls was slightly lower than in the previous quarter.

About 30 per cent of calls were related to fire rescue, while 70 per cent involved pre-hospital care, which is consistent with past quarters.

Driver said it’s also important that residents take precautions with home heating during the winter month.

“As colder weather continues, we’re encouraging residents to pay close attention to home heating safety,” said Driver.

“Having furnaces and fireplaces inspected and maintained, using them as intended, and making sure working smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home are some of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce fire risk. These basic steps help give families an early warning and can prevent small issues from becoming serious emergencies.”

The full quarterly report can be found here.

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Interior Health is expanding the hours of operation at the Cranbrook Urgent and Primary Care Centre.

The centre will be open seven days a week and on statutory holidays starting on Feb, 13,

The clinic will be open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday and statutory holidays.

The clinic supports people who are experiencing non-life-threatening conditions and need to see a health-care provider within 12 to 24 hours but don’t need to go to emergency.

The UPCC is located at the Baker Street Professional Centre at 1311 2nd Street North in Cranbrook.

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Aaron Gunn will hear from members across multiple communities at four town hall events. 

The North Island–Powell River MP will start in Courtenay on Feb. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Native Sons Hall, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. 

Gunn said he believes the most important conversations happen in communities and not in Ottawa. 

“Connecting with my constituents and hearing directly about the issues that matter most to them is crucial in ensuring I am able to do the best job I can in representing them in the nation’s capital.”

Gunn will also host town halls in Campbell River on Feb. 21, Port McNeill on Mar. 16 and Powell River on Mar. 19. 

Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, share feedback, and participate in discussions on issues they think are affecting their community and the country. 

“Whether you’re concerned about the rising cost of living, increased crime, the hallowing out of our resource sector, or anything else, this is your chance to speak directly with me,” Gunn said. 

Anyone planning on attending any of the town hall can register here. 

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One person was arrested following a report of a break and enter in progress at a commercial location on Exeter Station Road over the weekend.

100 Mile House RCMP Sargeant Brian Lamb said on February 8 police attended and searched the premises where an adult male was found hiding inside the business in possession of several stolen tools and other items.

“The male was arrested for offences including break and enter and possession of break in instruments,” Lamb said, “He was held in custody for a bail hearing and has since been remanded to prison.”

Lamb said a grey 1999 GMC Sierra truck with no licence plates attached was also determined to be missing and police believe the male likely had accomplices with him at the time of the incident which was reported to police at 4 am.

The truck has not been recovered.

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After five days of performances, workshops and more, the 2026 edition of the Coldsnap Music Festival came to a close on Sunday.

“We saw really great attendance at both our free to attend events and our ticketed events,” said Coldsnap Communications Manager Katherine Benny.

“I think everyone can agree that what we brought to Prince George was truly magical.”

Benny said the square dance, a new addition to the festival, was a highlight.

“Seeing the way that Prince George came out for Coldsnap’s first every square dance was really remarkable,” she said.

“We had a really great crowd of keen folks hoping to learn more about square dancing, so I think we’re going to have to do that again.”

After seeing a lot of success with the five day format last year, which Benny said continued this year.

“I think it’s safe to say that Coldsnap will do five days again,” she said.

Benny added audiences were wonderful and welcoming.

“They’ll always sing along when asked or clap along with or off the beat, we wouldn’t be here without our wonderful, crew, volunteers, and audience members.”

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Remedial action has been completed at two Lewis Street properties, and the Municipality of North Cowichan says it is a step closer to improving public safety in the region. 

The order to clean up 5861 and 5865 Lewis Street was issued on Aug. 20 to address a rapidly growing encampment that had raised safety and nuisance concerns for nearby residents and businesses. 

Mayor Rob Douglas said although the cleanup has progressed and the properties are now dealt with, the property owner could not be reached and the municipality will take steps to ensure the owner pays for the work. 

 “The property owner was unable to handle the demolition and the site cleanup, so municipal staff coordinated the demolition permit and environmental testing,” he said. “The property owner will be billed for the work, and if the invoice is not paid, the cost will be added to their future property tax bills.” 

Douglas added the cleanup shows how quickly a project can be completed and how quality of life can be improved when the entire region works together. 

“This project represents a significant step forward in improving public safety and overall quality of life in the York Road and Lewis Street neighbourhoods,” he said. “It’s a good example of council direction being converted into on-the-ground results.” 

The property work was completed on Feb. 7. 

There is still a remedial action order in place for a property in Crofton that the municipality has ordered the owner to make safe and compliant with bylaws. The order follows council’s action in October 2025 to declare a Lewis Street property a nuisance and impose specific remediation requirements, including fencing and grounds maintenance, under the Community Charter. 

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A local program designed to give people rides to medical appointments can no longer keep up with the demand.

Castlegar Community Services executive director Reidun Rossi told city council last week that the West Kootenay Volunteer Driver Program has been operating in some form for 20 years. Volunteers give rides to people who can’t otherwise get to their appointments. Drivers are reimbursed for gas.

Rossi said the demand for rides has skyrocketed in the past few years. In the 2022-23 fiscal year, they provided 766 rides. In 2023-24, there were 1,156. In 2024-25, there were 1,887. And in 2025-26, they expect to provide 2,600, a 27 per cent increase over the previous year.

“For the first time, in late 2025 we were unable to meet all requests for rides,” Rossi said. “We are able to meet them up until September-October. Some regular clients have been informed that ongoing rides cannot be guaranteed. There’s a lot of people now that cannot get rides because we have so many demands.”

The problem is not a volunteer shortage, but a lack of funding, she said. They have 30 volunteers ready to provide three times the number of rides presently offered, but the organization doesn’t have the budget.

The program is supported by client fees, the United Way, Interior Health, a Columbia Basin Trust ReDi grant, and a gaming grant. However, Rossi said these are primarily one-time sources with no guarantee of ongoing funding.

The program costs $120,000 to $140,000 per year to operate and in its busiest month it offers about 250 rides. Some funding streams are for seniors specifically and others for anyone over the age of 18.

Rossi said they collaborate with other local agencies who provide similar services. While each area has a local program, they come together on rides of 100 kilometres or longer.

She added that the program used to provide recreational rides to get people to activities in addition to medical appointments, but they can no longer do that.

While she didn’t ask the city for funding, she did request that council advocate for the program with provincial agencies.

Rossi also said they are working with Interior Health to see if any changes can be made within the health authority’s internal booking system that would allow for multiple people to catch rides on the same trip.

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The accolades keep pouring in for a cross-country runner from Vanderhoof.

Kavita Dhillon was named the BC Athletics Under 16 Athlete of the Year.

Dhillon captured the Canadian Jr. Girls National Cross-Country U16 Running Championship in London, Ontario back in November.

She blazed past the competition in the 4km race, which featured 140 participants from across Canada.

Dhillon also placed 3rd at the B.C. Provincials missing top spot by a second.

She also competes for Nechako Valley Secondary School.

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Prince George Mounties are looking for assistance from the public to identify the suspect in a recent mischief investigation.

Police were contacted on February 3rd, by employees at a bank on the 5900-block of Dakelh Ti Road, who reported the cameras on the ATMs at that location had been damaged and would require replacement.

Investigators obtained still images of the suspect and are releasing them to the public in the hopes that someone may recognize the individual.

“This type of vandalism can by costly for a company, a cost that is ultimately worn by the consumer as the cost of goods and services rise to compensate for the damages. We encourage anyone with information to please reach out to share that information with our investigators,” states Corporal Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

If anyone has information that could help identify the suspect in this investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Prince George RCMP by calling the non-emergency line at 250-561-3300 or contact Northern B.C. Crime Stoppers.

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The three newest members of the Trail Smoke Eaters can now get into a routine with their new teammates.

The Smokies acquired Jace Harder from Powell River for future considerations and he was the first to arrive on game day vs Cranbrook last Wednesday, calling the trip one he will never forget.

“It was brutal,” said the former King.

“I left at 4:30 a.m. (Tuesday) from Powell River and then stopped at my house in Lake Country (near Kelowna) for a few hours to just kind of recharge, got to Trail at about 10 (a.m. Wednesday) so I made it just in time.

Harder says his first shift as a Smokie was memorable.

“It was awesome,” said the six-foot-three, 190-pound winger.

“You just feel the culture around this team and how great everyone is and it was just kind of fun out there,” he commented, noting he is very much looking forward to the playoffs.

“It’s kind of my goal since since being in the BCHL, I couldn’t be happier,” stated the 19-year-old who feels he plays a basic in-your-face type of game.

“I’m probably more older school, a kind of classic power forward and try to use my body and my speed to get pucks to the net,” Harder explained, adding that there were some challenging times in Powell River.

“Definitely a few years of growing pains and it’s a very good league so I think that right now I’m just hitting my stride,” added the third year BCHL veteran, who caught the eye of head coach and GM Eric Thurston during his early shifts.

“I was really impressed,” said Thurston about Harder’s debut last Wednesday against Cranbrook.

“His understanding of the game, his read of the game, his positioning, I thought he did a really good job,” said the bench boss, who added that newcomer David Greene also traveled a considerable distance to play in his Trail debut.

“I think he had the longest travel day I’ve ever heard of,” mused Thurston about the six-foot 195-pound winger who started the season in the North American Hockey League with the Kenai River Brown Bears.

“He left Kenai River (Alaska) at 5:30 in the evening, got to the airport in Anchorage and had to spend the night there, and then flew out the next day,” said Thurston who added that Greene turned in a strong performance.

Greene had his own thoughts on the trip.

“It was pretty surreal,” said the 18-year-old player from Daytona Beach, Florida.

“Flying all night, throughout the day on Wednesday and getting picked up in Spokane and right away having to go play a game, but it was awesome, it was nice to get the win that night.

Greene had an outstanding game Saturday in West Kelowna.

His patient power move through the crease set up Dylan Lariviere’s goal in the first minute and Greene added a power play goal in the second, replacing the ill Christian Kim on the man advantage and on his line with Brayden Sinclair and Cash Carter.

Greene says he likes the tough going.

“I think my strengths are my physicality, I love to play the body and let guys on the other team know that they’re not going to make the play without getting hit,” he added, noting that getting up to top speed quickly is what he wants to improve.

Greene admits he has taken a unique road to the BCHL, adding that he chose hockey over the more traditional, hot weather sports in the southeastern U.S. state.

His introduction to hockey came early.

“The Tampa Bay Lightning were going around the state, doing learn to play and my dad decided to sign me up for one and he told me if I didn’t like it I never have to do it again, but I quickly fell in love with it and now I’m here,” David explained.

Chase Nehring joined the team Thursday from the Corpus Christi (Texas) Ice Rays of the North American Hockey League.

The 18-year-old winger admits it’s not a hockey hotbed like Trail, but the atmosphere is comparable.

“Down in Corpus hockey isn’t really a big thing, but there’s a hockey team there, a junior team and fans get into it, they love it and it was awesome down there,” said the Las Vegas native, who said he started playing hockey before the game became popular in the desert.

“Growing up there wasn’t much ice available, hockey wasn’t a big thing but obviously the Vegas Golden Knights (NHL) came in and when that happened, hockey got a huge push and it’s awesome there now” Chase explained.

The six-foot-three, 180-pound winger says he is committed to making the Smokies better and harder to play against.

“I think my strengths are on the walls, the corners and in front of the net, I can make plays spinning off guys in the corner,” he stated, while also focusing on at least one area of improvement.

“One thing I think I need to work on the most is probably my skating,” said Chase who added that the decision to join the Smokies was not difficult.

“My advisor reached out and said I could go to Trail if I wanted and it was obviously a huge opportunity, so I talked with my family and friends, people who play at a high level and they thought it was best that I come to Trail,” he stated.

Thurston also liked what he saw from Nehring, who almost scored on his first shift.

“I thought Chase was excellent,” said the man in charge.

“A big, big body, skates well, I think he’s got a great understanding of the game,” Thurston commented, especially considering he didn’t arrive until the wee hours of the morning on game day.

“He didn’t get in until about 2 a.m. and that was impressive,” he added.

Thurston and his staff pivoted quickly after the departure of winger Ryan Oothoudt to the Kelowna Rockets who became the seventh Smokie to leave this season for major junior teams.

Thurston is pleased with the three new recruits, but now faces a new challenge.

“For the additions we’ve added I’m really excited, I’m really happy” noted Thurston.

“Now it’s my job finding the right places, the right pieces for all of our chemistry in our lines to make sure we are still clicking,” he added.

“We’ve got a good balance of everything and we will see how that unfolds, I’ve got a little bit of time, but not much, we’ve got to get on that,” Thurston concluded.

The BCHL trade deadline is at 4 p.m. Tuesday and teams will have about an additional two weeks to finalize their rosters.

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UNBC has once again been recognized as one of British Columbia’s Top Employers.

This marks the 12th time the school has earned a place on the list since 2012.

The designation, awarded through Mediacorp’s reflects UNBC’s commitment to creating a supportive workplace.

“UNBC is more than a workplace, it is a community shaped by the shared efforts of the University’s outstanding faculty and staff,” says UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen.

“Being recognized again as one of the top employers in B.C. speaks to the inclusive and supportive culture UNBC’s employees continue to build together.”

UNBC is the only employer headquartered in Prince George to be included on the 2026 list of top employers.

The university was recognized for initiatives that celebrate professional achievement and career milestones, comprehensive maternity and parental leave programs, including supports for adoptive parents, and benefits such as subsidized access to the Charles Jago Northern Sport Centre.

It also offers educational incentives, including tuition waivers for employees and their family members.

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A temporary shelter site for the homeless on Homewood Road near Nunns Creek Park in Campbell River is growing.

The province announced Monday (Feb. 9) eight more “temporary supportive housing units” to the existing 40 at 1299 Homewood Road announced last year for a total of 48.

In an interview with Vista Radio, Housing Minister Christine Boyle says demand was there after speaking with community partners.

“In that ongoing dialogue there was a clear need for being able to bring some more people on site and more space to do it and so the province was glad to be able to expand to add these eight more beds,” Boyle said.

She says the province has been working with the City of Campbell River and other community partners, including the Campbell River and District Coalition to End Homelessness, the We Wai Kai First Nation and Wei Wai Kum First Nation.

As for when the units will be available, Boyle says the self-contained homes should arrive shortly.

“I am told relatively soon. There was a slight delay with the manufacturer but we’re expecting them,” she said.

Boyle says it’s been a “really strong partnership” with the city, which covered the capital cost and site preparation.

The capital and operating costs of the eight new units was not immediately available. The original 40 units had cost $2.4 million with annual operating funding of $1.6-1.8 million.

Campbell River is one of two B.C. communities expanding their sites as part of the second phase of the province’s plan to tackle homelessness.

Also as part of the second phase, Powell River, Cranbrook, New Westminster, Smithers and Squamish have signed on to become shelter partners with the government.

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Sparwood is inviting residents to celebrate Winterfest on Monday, Feb. 16, with an afternoon and evening of food, games and activities.

Festivities will run from noon to 2 p.m. at Centennial Plaza, featuring live music from Lords Knows, family games and activities including crafts, snow painting, spike ball, chippo, cornhole and axe throwing.

A fundraising barbecue for Sparwood Secondary School will be held during the event, sponsored by Elk Valley Resources. Hot chocolate and popcorn will be available by donation from the Sparwood Lions Club, and cupcakes will be provided by Komatsu.

The celebration will continue with free glow skating from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the leisure centre. Organizers encourage participants to wear white or neon colours for the best glow effect.

Fireworks are scheduled to cap off the evening on the field shortly after dusk.

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This year’s East Kootenay Foundation for Health(EKFH) Starlite campaign raised over $800,000 for health care priorities across the East Kootenay, making it the most successful year to date thanks to its donors and supporters. 

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who supported our Starlight Campaign. To our donors, sponsors, event attendees, volunteers, and partners, your generosity and belief in this work mean more than words can express. We simply could not do what we do without the unwavering support of our community.” said Brenna Hong, Executive Director, East Kootenay Foundation for Health.

Time and time again, when there is a need, you step forward and make meaningful change possible. Because of you, we are making a real and lasting impact on healthcare across the East Kootenay region. Thank you for standing with us and making Starlite 2025 one of the most successful ones yet.” Hong added.

The campaign kicked off with $150,000 raised at the Starlite Ball at St. Eugene back in November. Contributions from businesses, donors, volunteers, supporters and the Cranbrook Kimberley Hospice Society made the event a success. The other $650,000 came from donors all across the region to support health care teams and several other health care priorities. 

Nearly half of the total money raised will go towards building a new hospice home in the East Kootenay with the Cranbrook Kimberley Hospice Society. 

With the other portion of donations going to a second portable ultrasound at Golden & District Hospital, improving cancer care at East Kootenay Regional Hospital, and support for hospitals, health centres, and long-term care homes across the region. 

Parts of funds raised also helped expand JoeAnna’s House in Kelowna, adding 10 new beds for families staying there while loved ones receive care at Kelowna General Hospital. 

The annual East Kootenay Foundation for Health Starlite campaign runs every November through December to support local health care efforts and projects.

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Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Business Facade Improvement Program.

The City of Williams Lake in partnership with Northern Development Initiative Trust is providing $20,000 in total funding to support improvements to commercial building facades within the City’s downtown and Highway commercial corridor.

“We have great examples around the community of how this program has helped to beautify our downtown and we look forward to hearing from all the people who are interested in finding out more about it,” Manager of Economic Development Beth Veenkamp said.

The project is designed to enhance the appearance and functionality of commercial buildings, helping to strengthen business viability to better serve the community the City stated in a release.

Veenkamp said the maximum grant amount is five thousand dollars which would contribute fifty percent to a total project value.

“So in other words you would need to spend ten thousand to get the full five thousand but if your project only requires to spend eight thousand then you would get four.”

Applications are being accepted until April 1, 2026 and late applications may be considered depending on funding availability.

The City said all applicants will be notified of funding by May 30, 2026.

“In 2025 we (the City) received six applications and three projects were able to be completed. This program has been around since 2016 and every year we do three, or maybe four improvement projects around town” Veenkamp said.

For full 2026 Business Facade Improvement Program details, guidelines and application information can be found online at the City of Williams Lake website.

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While she says her position can be stressful, the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary director for rural Grand Forks will stand for another term.

Linda Kay Wiese told Grand Forks city council on Monday that the early goings of 2026 have been “indeed politically intense and slightly over the top.”

She said resident concerns about local health care and library funding have dominated local conversations, and amid these “sometimes heated and often fraught discussions,” she decided her political future.

Wiese said she has spent the last few weeks “considering whether the stress of this role is worth the reward. I realize, despite everything, this is work I’ve come to appreciate greatly.”

Wiese said engaging with the public and “doing my level best to represent the diverse needs” of rural Grand Forks is “the most complex and interesting role that I’ve performed in my life.”

“So, despite the stress, the temper and the need to walk multiple very fine lines while at the same time juggling fire, I hope to have your support as I seek re-election in the fall.”

Wiese is serving her first term. She was elected in 2022, defeating incumbent Danna O’Donnell as well as Peter Demski.

While the election isn’t until October, Wiese is the latest of several incumbent and aspiring Boundary politicians to announce their candidacies. Grand Forks mayor Everett Baker is running for re-election, and will be challenged by former Castlegar mayor Kirk Duff. Local broadcaster and theatre proprietor Shaun Aquiline will also stand for Grand Forks city council. But longtime councillor Christine Thompson will retire after this year.

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Boundary baseball fans will get a bonus this year, as Grand Forks hosts two major tournaments instead of one.

The Grand Forks International will go ahead as usual at James Donaldson Park from June 21 to 28, and then the BC men’s provincials will be held from July 30 to Aug. 3.

Organizers expect six to eight teams at provincials and say the level of competition should be similar to the GFI.

City council passed a motion of support for both tournaments Monday, but first discussed the value of the city’s in-kind contribution and how best it could be accounted for.

Councillor Deborah Lafleur said the city’s help is worth “not an insignificant amount of money” and wondered if the city should instead use a fee-for-service model. She said that would make the costs more obvious. “If it were fee-for-service, you can see what we are giving,” she said.

Councillor Zak Eburne-Stoodley agreed cutting a cheque would be “black and white,” whereas counting staff time “gets very gray, very muddy, very fast,” because while the city provides some event-specific tasks, other work amounts to general maintenance of the ballpark that would take place anyway.

Councillor Rod Zielinksi said he would like to see the outcome of a recreational study, due soon, which he hopes will clarify the value of recreation in the community. Councillor Christine Thompson said given the expected economic benefits to the community, she had no problem supporting both tournaments.

City manager Duncan Redfearn said he has spoken to the public works department, which estimates the services the city will provide for the baseball provincials could run as much as $5,000 in overtime because a statutory holiday is involved. However, the department has assured him they can make it work.

“Ultimately, we will not be doing something else,” Redfearn said. “We’re not adding people or resources. We will reduce efforts in one area to accommodate this.”

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The newest doctor in Grand Forks and the physician who recruited him are hoping to redevelop a downtown commercial building that could attract further medical professionals.

Dr. Gary Sandhar and Dr. Mark Szynkaruk are applying to rezone 125B Market Avenue, where Szynkaruk previously sought to create a brewery and restaurant.

They would now like to turn most of the building into apartments, although they haven’t ruled out maintaining some commercial spaces.

Sandhar said at a minimum, they expect to create six one-bedroom residential units, with the possibility of a couple of two-bedroom units as well.

“We’re aware there’s been a need for commercial units in the past, so by keeping that west end [of the building] kind of a question mark for now, we can always allow the market to dictate which way things go,” Sandhar said.

“If partway through this development, we realize that there’s a fair amount of commercial space needed, then we’d be happy to tailor it.”

Sandhar said they intend to maintain the building’s form and character, specifically regarding its brick exterior. He added they expect the building will attract medical professionals who want to live there, although it would not be limited to them.

“Any young professionals would, I think, benefit from being so close to downtown,” he said. “But I think that would be an easy start for us in terms of making sure we get housing for people who want to be here in the longer run.”

Sandhar said he spoke to a couple of temporary nurses who had their privacy invaded by a landlord, which led to them to move out. With no substitute housing readily available, they cut their time in Grand Forks short.

Szynkaruk also said he has a verbal commitment from a physician to come to Grand Forks in September, but the doctor’s biggest concern is housing: because his partner doesn’t drive, they need to find a place somewhere downtown, so she can walk everywhere.

Sandhar said an architectural review is pending, but based on their initial assessment, they don’t expect any large structural or engineering modifications will be needed. Assuming they receive rezoning and subject to closing conditions, they expect redevelopment could begin in mid-May with an estimated construction timeline of 12 to 18 months.

Council directed staff to begin the rezoning process, which would include a public hearing.

BC Assessment indicates the building, which is over 6,300 square feet, was constructed in 1929. It has been on the market for about the last year. In recent times it’s been home to a lawyer’s office and a bakery, among other things.

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Sports by Hartley Tuesday, February 10th, 2026  as of 12:05 a.m.

Winter Games:

Prince George long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly placed 26th out of 30 in the 1000m race Monday at the 2026 Winter Games (Monday) in Milano Cortina.

Her next event is the 500m on Sunday (8:00 AM PT).

Two other P.G. athletes will compete in Italy.

Evan Bichon, who grew up in Mackenzie and attended high school in Prince George will hit the slopes in snowboard cross on Thursday (4:45am Pacific).

Ski cross racer Gavin Rowell won’t participate until Saturday, Feb. 21st (1 AM PT).

Colby Graham of P.G. is an alternate on the men’s snowboard cross team.

WHL:

The Cougars and Blazers have a home and home against each other this week as the two teams play Friday in P.G. and Saturday in Kamloops.

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just two points ahead of the
(25-17-6-4) Blazers and three in front of the (26-17-5-2) Kelowna Rockets.

Prince George has just 17 games left in the regular season; 7 at home and 10 on the road.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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Creston’s emergency warming centre will open overnight tonight, Monday Feb. 9, due to forecast conditions.

The centre will operate from 8 p.m. Monday to 8 a.m. Tuesday at 138 10th Ave. N., in the former Work Experience Program dormitory on the former fire hall property, adjacent to the former ambulance bay.

The emergency warming centre provides a safe, warm and dry place of refuge, with access to washrooms, seating, snacks and refreshments.

“Everyone is welcome.” said the Town of Creston.

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The Creston Valley Thundercats are preparing to usher in a new era, announcing plans to rebrand the junior hockey club after 25 years under the Thundercats name.

The organization announced last week it is adopting a new team name, colours and logo, with the final decision to be guided by community feedback gathered through an online survey that also went live last week.

General manager Brandon Buliziuk said the move comes after several seasons of increased engagement with fans and a strong response to a throwback jersey earlier this season.

“Over the past couple seasons, we’ve really been getting engaged with our fan base and just listening, and we heard a lot around the idea of what initially started with a potential change back to the Creston Valley Thunder, which was the team name prior to their joining the KIJHL,” he explained.

Last season, the team debuted a third jersey featuring the former Thunder name, which was well received not only locally but throughout the entire Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.

“We made the decision that we were going to create a third jersey for this year in the Thunder name to see what the feedback was like. So we did that and we got tremendous feedback throughout the season on the logo and the name, not just locally, but around the league.”

Rather than settling on a new identity right away, Buliziuk said the organization opted to involve the community directly through a survey shared with fans, sponsors and the community.

“We would like to entirely make this decision based on community feedback. We’re a community-owned and operated club, and I’d like to see the direction that we go in be in line with what the community wants.”

While the Thundercats name will be retired, the team’s history will still be honoured.

“I think that that’ll be a piece of history going forward. there’s always the potential for certain elements to be retained,” said Buliziuk.

“All options are on the table for the board to consider. But I think we’re excited to look at something new going forward here or a modernized version of old, if that’s what the community vote on.”

He added the timing of the rebrand also aligns with practical needs, including uniform and equipment replacements.

“We have a lot of things that just, through time and wear and tear, now need to be replaced. We need to replace our centre ice logo, all our uniforms are due to get turned over. And so it fits with doing it this season as a lot of those financial commitments are going to take place regardless.”

The club hopes the rebrand will build on growing community support, with Buliziuk noting attendance this season has nearly doubled compared to previous years.

“We’ve seen a tremendous success this season with our commitment from our fans. Our attendance is almost over double the average that it’s been in the past. Great crowds at the games, and it’s about giving the community an entertainment piece and simultaneously providing a great hockey environment for the boys.”

The survey is expected to close in February. After that, the board will review the results.

Buliziuk said he hopes to announce the new team name in early March, followed by logo and branding development in the following four to six weeks.

“We’re really grateful for all the engagement. The survey has been getting huge numbers of responses. We love the community support. It’s the community’s team. And we’re really grateful for everything our fans and sponsors continue to put into this organization.”

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The Prince George RCMP say a missing person has been located deceased.

According to police, the person was reported missing on Saturday, and was last seen near a residence on the 16700 block of East Perry Road.

They say it was unknown when they had left the residence or their exact destination.

“Police officers quickly determined that Prince George Search and Rescue would be a valuable partner in this investigation,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“After two days of searching with police officers, Search and Rescue volunteers, and a police dog services team, the person was located deceased on February 8, a short distance from the residence.”

Cooper says foul play is not suspected in this case.

The RCMP’s Victim Services unit has been engaged to work with the friends and family of the deceased.

The investigation is now with the B.C. Coroners Service, and police will not be providing any further information.

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The Prince George RCMP used a few methods to help track down a break and enter suspect.

The investigation began at about 8:30 on Thursday evening, when police received multiple reports of a vehicle crashing into the sidewalk near Ferry Avenue and Highway 16 west.

According to police, the driver of the vehicle was seen running away from the incident site, and the vehicle was found to have been stolen a short time prior to the crash occurring.

A short time later, Mounties received a report of a residential break-and-enter where the suspect had run into an occupied home on Watson Crescent, and was scared off by the homeowner. The homeowner reported seeing the suspect, who was described as wearing similar clothing as the driver from the crash, flee into her backyard.

Investigators called in the Police Service Dog Unit, and deployed a drone to assist with tracking from above the neighbourhood.

“When the drone located an individual moving quickly though the area, the police officer was able to relay this information to the police service dog team, who could then quickly narrow down the scope of their search,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“This blend of tactics enabled police to located the suspect rapidly, before he had the opportunity to enter any more homes or vehicles.”

The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Prince George resident Micheal Dean Burger, was arrested and held for court.

According to police, it was discovered that Burger had an unendorsed warrant in his name, and was in breach of a current probation order.

Burger has been charged with:

• Break and enter and theft,
• Break and enter with the intent to commit an indictable offense,
• Theft of motor vehicle,
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000,
• Resisting arrest,
• Fail to comply with release order

Police say Burger will remain in custody until his next court appearance.

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Welcome to Hartley’s Cat Scan!

This is a weekly podcast featuring the ‘who’s who’ of the Prince George Cougars.

Hartley’s guest this week is Cougars co-owner and President John Pateman.

During the episode, he discussed several topics including:

• Cougars winning ways; NCAA changes
• Ownership being paired to five people
• Carson Carels; some of the staff changes the Cats have endured
• Equipment and Hockey stick budget
• Rankings within the WHL Player Survey

You can also find this podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, and TuneIn.

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The City of Campbell River Airport (YBL) is welcoming WestJet to the community.

The airline was officially welcomed at a ceremony at the local airport on Monday, Feb. 9. The event began with a land acknowledgement and a performance by Wei Wai Kum First Nation drummers and dancers, followed by remarks from Chief Chris Roberts.

At the ceremony, it was announced that WestJet will begin seasonal service between Campbell River and Calgary starting in the spring. WestJet’s new route will operate daily beginning May 15, offering connections between YBL and Calgary International Airport’s hub, with onward access to destinations across North America and beyond.

Plans call for four trips each way per week from May until October, with daily flights through the peak summer season.

Airport manager Dennis Brodie said the service will help connect Campbell River to the rest of the world and will be great for the local tourism sector.

Dennis Brodie comments:

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The Bulkley Valley Rod and Gun Club is celebrating a century in the region.

It was first established in 1926 primarily as a wildlife and fish conservation and since grown to include sport shooting.

“Around here, it was basically just preserving the fish; preserving the animals to hunt and we’re still doing that. It’s probably at least half of what we do,” said President David Helps.

He added the group lasting as long as it has shows a lot of people in the Bulkley Valley are interested in conservation.

The move to include sport shooting and fishing didn’t start until the mid-70s with an update to its constitution.

Helps added in the last 100 years, the largest impact that’s been felt has been around the federal governments gun bans through the last 10 years.

“We have strived to be relatively apolitical over the years but its got to the point now we have not choice,” he said.

A main point mentioned was the ban on hand gun sales as it led to a drop in memberships.

This was because a restricted possession and acquisition license was needed to buy a hand gun and required the person to be a gun club member.

“If it keeps going the way it’s going, there won’t be any membership here in another 10 years,” said Helps.

He added the ban has also had an impact on sport shooting.

“Sport shooting is practically non-existent here in Smithers other than long-range accuracy shooting with rifles and trap shooting with shotguns.”

With the centennial, the club is incorporating 100 years into the various events it holds including a banquet held earlier this year, and several open houses through the summer.

Information about events can be found on the club’s Facebook page.

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The Prince George RCMP say a missing person has been located deceased.

According to police, the person was reported missing on Saturday, and was last seen near a residence on the 16700 block of East Perry Road.

They say it was unknown when they had left the residence or their exact destination.

“Police officers quickly determined that Prince George Search and Rescue would be a valuable partner in this investigation,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“After two days of searching with police officers, Search and Rescue volunteers, and a police dog services team, the person was located deceased on February 8, a short distance from the residence.”

Cooper says foul play is not suspected in this case.

The RCMP’s Victim Services unit has been engaged to work with the friends and family of the deceased.

The investigation is now with the B.C. Coroners Service, and police will not be providing any further information.

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Another milestone has been reached for Courtenay’s featured infrastructure project. 

The 6th Street Active Transportation Bridge had towers installed on each side of the Courtenay River, with each standing just over 16 metres tall.  

The east-side tower at Simms Millennium Park and the west-side tower were both installed in January 2026, marking a key phase of construction.  

Each tower is assembled over three days before being lifted into place, and the process was delayed by a few days due to flooding in the area. 

The City of Courtenay said despite the delays, the project remains on schedule.  

The city added the tower installations represent a major step toward project completion.  

The 6th Street bridge will be a four-metre-wide, symmetrical, cable-stayed crossing designed for pedestrians and cyclists.

It is intended to improve connectivity between downtown and Simms Millennium Park once complete in late 2026. 

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An annual burbot recovery mission will take place on Moyie Lake during the final two weeks of February.

Teams from the Ktunaxa Nation Council, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and the B.C. government will work together to catch, tag, and release burbot, while collecting some of their eggs. The collection helps rebuild the burbot population in the lower Kootenay while natural spawning recovers. 

Burbot egg collection happens during the burbot spawning season in February. The eggs are taken to hatcheries where they are raised to different life stages, then released back into certain areas of the Kootenay River system, Idaho and B.C.

In 2009, several governments and organizations partnered to start a formal recovery program after the burbot fish species were close to disappearing in the 1990s. Before the decline the lower Kootenay burbot population supported First Nations fisheries, and recreational fisheries in Montana, Idaho and B.C.   

Moyie Lake egg collections are vital because problems like the Libby Dam and changes to the river habitat have made natural burbot spawning inconsistent. Although the hatchery woodwork is still needed, most burbot are left to spawn naturally as only a tiny fraction of eggs are collected each year.

All burbot handled in the program which is supported and led in partnership with the Ktunaxa Nation Council are tagged and released alive. The Moyie Lake project is helping guide other burbot recovery and benefit  projects in the Upper Kootenay region.

Since the program began, staff have recaptured fish from these releases, which indicates the program is successful. Data collected from the program tells that Moyie Lake now has a healthy burbot population of about 10,000 fish.

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Canal Flats Fire Rescue snuffed out an early morning structure fire on Saturday.

Crews were called out at 1:54 a.m. on Feb. 7 to Bailley Grohman Avenue.

The occupant and pets were accounted for, but unfortunately the mobile home was a loss.

Fairmont Fire Rescue and Windermere Fire Rescue also responded.

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The Ktunaxa Nation has issued a travel advisory over ongoing immigration issues south of the border.

The ʔaq̓am First Nation had previously issued a travel warning and a number of First Nations across Canada have been doing the same.

“Ktunaxa Nation Council recognizes the importance of cross-border travel for family, cultural, economic and personal reasons, and has serious concerns about the safety of our citizens in relation to border crossings and enforcement practices,” the First Nation said.

There have been instances of detainment and delays, as well as Indigenous-specific documentation not being consistently recognized by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.

The Jay Treaty affirms the right of Indigenous Peoples to freely cross the border, however, enforcement and interpretation of those rights can vary by border office or agency.

More information on travel precautions and additional information on your rights can be found here.

The First Nation will be coordinating support with the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho.

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Sparwood council has mixed feelings over staff’s decision to turn off commenting on the district’s social media accounts.

Last month the district shut off all commenting on social media, citing that a substantial number of comments do not meet the municipality’s expectations for constructive or respectful dialogue.

However, council didn’t have a say on the decision. Under the district’s bylaw, staff were allowed to make that choice.

Councillor Steve Kallies said normally he’s fine with whatever the outcome is on a vote, even if he’s not for it, but wants to make it clear that council didn’t decide.

“When council decides, that’s it, it’s a group decision. In this case, if and when I’m challenged on it, I’m going to be public that this was not council decision,” he said.

“I just want to be transparent on that.”

Councillor John Baher stands by staff’s decision.

“I am totally in support of staff about turning the comments off. There are so many other opportunities and ways that the public can comment if they wish to. They can come in and talk to staff directly or a council member, they all have our email addresses and our social medias,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s the least little bit comforting when staff have to deal with keyboard warriors that decide that they want to start something because they’re board that day. I have no qualms with the commenting being turned off and I hope that it stays that way.”

For the decision to be overturned a councillor would have to bring forward a motion to amend the bylaw that allows staff to turn off commenting.

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Nanaimo is recognizing outstanding contributions to arts and culture with its annual Culture Awards. The 2026 winners will be honoured at a free community celebration at the Port Theatre on April 14.  

This year’s recipients are being recognized for their work in theatre, music and the promotion of heritage and history.  

Leon Potter is a theatre artist, mentor and long-time faculty member at Vancouver Island University. 

“Potter has trained and mentored generations of emerging artists while elevating professional standards across disciplines. Through his directing, adjudicating, producing and leadership in major cultural events, Potter’s artistic integrity and commitment to collaboration have strengthened Nanaimo’s reputation as a centre for creative excellence,” the city said in a news release.  

Luis Porretta is a music promoter who has worked through Quadwrangle Music for more than 20 years. 

“Known for his generosity, mentorship and tireless volunteer efforts, Porretta’s work has strengthened relationships between artists, venues and audiences and contributed significantly to Nanaimo’s vibrant live-music ecosystem,” the city said.  

Brian McFadden is a long-time volunteer and president of the Vancouver Island Military Museum. He has researched, designed and developed many of the museum’s exhibits. 

“His work emphasises Nanaimo’s contributions to military service in both wartime and peacekeeping contexts, with a strong focus on education, remembrance and community connection,” the city said. “Through education, outreach, guided tours and advocacy, McFadden’s leadership and scholarship have strengthened community understanding, remembrance and pride in Nanaimo’s history.”  

Award recipients are selected by Nanaimo city council and are nominated by the community. The decisions are reviewed by a panel of past winners and community leaders. 

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Construction is set to begin soon on a pump track above the Halfmoon Bay community hall. 

The Sunshine Coast Regional District says construction of the community hall is on schedule and it is set to open this summer. The project is largely funded through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.  

“Visitors to the area will have noticed the hall really starting to take shape,” reads a news release from the SCRD. “In the past few weeks construction crews have completed a significant amount of work on the inside of the hall including insulation and drywall.”  

The SCRD says landscape plans are complete and will begin to take shape once the hardscaping is done.  

If weather conditions allow, work on the pump track will begin in the coming weeks.  

Construction on the community hall began in April last year. 

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Sugden says it has a pumping capacity of 750 gallons per minute.

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A representative for mill workers in North Cowichan addressed council to oppose the idea of a special task force to identify why mills are closing in the region. 

Adrian Soldera, president of Public and Private Workers of Canada Local 8, spoke to North Cowichan council on Feb. 4, saying everyone already knows why the mills are closing and that a new task force would be a waste of time. 

“On the surface it sounds reasonable, but this task force is not just unnecessary. It’s also a dangerous distraction,” Soldera said. “We don’t need more explorers; we need a rescue plan.” 

He said the Crofton mill is ending several jobs at its plant and that the Chemainus sawmill now faces extended curtailment efforts due to what he called a fibre crisis. Soldera added that putting another group together to investigate why the mills are closing would be redundant.  

Industry reporting shows the Crofton pulp mill is closing permanently, with about 350 jobs affected, and the Chemainus sawmill’s curtailment has been extended amid weak market conditions and log supply challenges. 

“Asking a task force to study these things is like asking for a committee to study why a house is on fire while the roof is already collapsing,” Soldera said. “Every day this task force spends sitting in a boardroom another family in a mill town wonders if they can pay their mortgage. Task forces are where things go to die.” 

The motion to form the task force was eventually withdrawn during the Feb. 4 meeting, and Soldera said he is appreciative council decided to change direction so resources can be diverted to support workers and families who need it. 

“We have a situation where a number of workers in our community no longer have jobs, and those are the members who need assistance,” he said. “We don’t need to waste time and money getting reports, we need action to get this to government.” 

Soldera said the forestry industry in B.C. is in a dire situation and that government needs to look at sustainable forestry to make changes. Industry groups have warned that mill closures reflect long-standing challenges in B.C.’s forest sector, including weak markets and limited access to affordable fibre. 

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There was no shortage of podium trips for Prince George Judo athletes at the BC Provincial Championships in Abbotsford.

Over the weekend, 23 medals were collected from athletes affiliated with the Hart, Northern Capital and Prince George clubs over three days.

The medal winners are as follows:

Gold (11)

Kiya Wisniowski – U18 Advanced Female – 63 kg

Olivia Wisniowski – U18 Advanced Female +70kg and Senior Female +78kg

Ayden Jacobsen – U16 Novice – 50kg

Graham Pryschlak – U16 Advanced -73kg

Yannick Schimann – U18 Advanced Male – 60kg

Cadence Morris – U16 Advanced Female – 63kg

Shane Grooten – U16 Advanced Male – 66 kg

Sylvie Schimann – U16 Advanced Female – 44 kg

Ryland Cleave – U14 Advanced Male – 66kg

Owen Richards – U14 Male – 60kg

Silver (5)

Cadence Morris – U16 Female – 63kg

Meagan Grooten – Seniors – 63 kg

Ryan Bennett – U16 Advanced Male – 73kg

Lucas Austman – U16 Advanced Male – 60kg

Kiya Wisniowski – U16 Advanced Female – 63kg

Bronze (7)

Maegan Grooten – Under 21 Female – 63kg

Shane Grooten – Under 18 Male – 66kg

Zoe Schimann – Under 16 Female – 44kg

Emily Austman – Under 14 Female – 52kg

Mia Willows – U14 Advanced Female – 57 kg and U16 Female Advanced -57kg

Simon Wisniowki – Veteran Men -90kg

Kiya Wisniowksi will compete at the BC Winter Games at the end of February, while all three Wisniowski’s and other club members compete at Edmonton International and Pacific International in Richmond during March.

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The City of Prince George is launching a new survey to learn more about the demand for public washrooms downtown.

In September, City Council directed staff to seek feedback from residents to inform future decisions about public washroom access.

During that meeting, Council was presented with some current options, cost estimates, and potential approaches to improve access.

Some of these suggestions included:

• A staffed washroom at Canada Games Plaza
• A durable, single-occupancy, standalone structure such as a Portland Loo
• Washroom access delivered through a partnership with a downtown service provider
• Integrating a year-round public washroom into an existing civic facility

Residents are being asked to provide feedback on proposed suggestion, identify priority areas for downtown public washrooms, and share views on funding and cost considerations.

Council will consider the feedback in the spring.

The survey is available on the City website, and will be available until March 2.

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Starting today (February 9) anglers in the Cariboo and the Province can register for a free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) in the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system (WILD) to prepare for the 2026-27 fishing season.

A FWID is required to buy a fishing license in the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system.

Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Randene Neill said starting this Spring, April first, freshwater fishers will be able to buy their fishing licenses online and that it’s been something that hunter’s have been using.

It will serve as proof of authorization for all basic angling, classified waters and white sturgeon.

“It basically gives people who hunt and fish the ability to hold just one E license for both sports and cuts down on the duplication of things.”

The Province said anglers must still carry a copy of their license, paper or digital, as proof of authorization for all Conservation Surcharge Stamps.

When a Conservation Surcharge Stamp and retention record is required, anglers must carry paper copy of their license in order to record their catch details.

Minister Neill noted there are many advantages to this system.

“You’ll be able to keep your ID number. You can also get your license online which makes it easier for some people but if you prefer to get one in person you can still go to any Service BC or Front Counter BC or other vendors that sell fishing licenses as well.”

Neill noted that if you are already a current hunter and already have an ID number you can keep that same ID number for angling.

Minister Neill noted that this is something that the hunting and angling communities have been asking for for a long time and that a lot of other Provinces do this already.

Because of this transition, the Province said there will be no changes to the fishing license fees.

“The fee for the 2025-26 year for residents is $41 for the season. You can get a one day fishing license from between 11 or 23 dollars and then there are discounts for seniors as well and it’s a little bit higher for non-residents,” Neill said.

Once you’ve obtained your Free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) number, Neill added you get to keep that similar to a drivers license, you don’t have to redo it every single year.

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The Smithers Steelheads and Hazelton Wolverines are up 1-0 in their best-of-3 first round series in the Central Interior Hockey League playoffs.

On Saturday, the Steelheads beat the Williams Lake Stampeders 5-4 on home ice with Jonathan Creswell getting a hat trick for the team.

The Wolverines went on the road and blasted the Prince Rupert Rampage 10-2 behind a hat trick from Ethan Browne.

Smithers will visit Williams Lake in game two on Saturday with a 3rd and deciding game to go on Sunday, also in Williams Lake.

Hazelton will host Prince Rupert the same days with the Sunday if necessary.

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Carolina Hiller-Donnelly’s first race at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy didn’t result in a medal.

The PG Blizzard alum finished 26th out of 30 competitors in the 1000m women’s speed skating event this morning (Monday).

Hiller-Donnelly finished with a time of 1:17.156 roughly five seconds behind the leader.

Beatrice Lamarche was the top Canadian who placed fifth.

It was a historic day for the Netherlands who placed first and second leaving their competition in the dust.

Jutta Leerdam claimed the gold medal with an Olympic record time of 1:12.31 finishing a quarter of a second ahead of her fellow countrymen Femke Kok who took silver with a time of 1:12.59.

Japan’s Miho Takagi earned the bronze medal.

Hiller-Donnelly’s next race is February 15th in the 500m event set for 8am Pacific Time.

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A grey late-model Hyundai Santa Fe is the link to a gas theft in Castlegar.

RCMP have released a photo of the vehicle with its hatch open, taken at about 5 a.m. on Jan. 15.

Police say the thief drilled the tank of a parked pick-up truck on the 4600 block of Minto Road and made off with the stolen gas.

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A town hall meeting planned by OneBC leader Dallas Brodie will no longer take place at the Creston and District Community Complex after the Regional District of Central Kootenay cancelled the booking, despite initially approving it.

The event had been scheduled for Feb. 12 at the publicly-funded recreation complex. 

Brodie said she chose Creston as a stop on her party’s broader provincial tour aimed at connecting with residents in rural and smaller communities.

“Creston is very important, it’s located in southeastern British Columbia. I actually own property there. I love Creston,” she said, adding that many rural communities feel underserved and underseen by provincial politics.

“There’s a big hunger out there for people to be heard because some of these areas of B.C. get underserved since they’re far away from the main cities. It’s really important to speak to the people who are actually the backbone of B.C.,” she said.

RDCK explains cancellation

Brodie had initially rented space at the Creston Community Complex through the RDCK. An internal RDCK briefing note obtained by Vista Radio said the booking request from OneBC was accepted through standard procedures.

A rental agreement was signed and fees were paid.

The note emphasized the district’s neutrality, stating it “does not endorse, support, or promote the views of facility users, and a room rental does not imply agreement, partnership, or endorsement,” and “does not approve or deny bookings based on political views or affiliation.”

However, shortly after the booking was secured, OneBC was informed that the RDCK was cancelling the reservation.

In a letter dated Feb. 2, chief administrative officer Stuart Horn notified the party the district was exercising its discretion under the rental agreement to terminate the booking. Any fees paid were refunded. 

“The Regional District of Central Kootenay hereby notifies you that it has cancelled the Rental Agreement in relation to the proposed Feb. 12, 2026, booking of the Creston Room at the Creston and District Recreation Complex. It is exercising its unfettered discretion to cancel under Section 2 of the agreement,” Horn wrote.

In a separate statement to Vista Radio, the RDCK said the decision was made with “the wellbeing of our community in mind,” adding that allowing the event to proceed “would not have aligned with our commitment to providing a safe and respectful space for community members.”

“After considering the potential impacts, allowing this event to proceed in an RDCK facility would not have aligned with our commitment to providing a safe and respectful space for community members,” the statement said.

“The RDCK remains a community-driven organization and continues to provide equitable access to publicly funded facilities for a wide range of groups and individuals.”

Brodie responds and community reacts

Brodie said she was not surprised by the cancellation, describing it as part of a broader pattern her party has encountered provincewide.

“This has been happening a lot wherever we hold events,” she said.

“It’s outrageous to me that this is happening. We are supposed to be a free and democratic society where all voices should have the right to be heard.”

She also raised concerns about public buildings denying access to political meetings.

“This is a public building, and it should be open to any groups who want to meet. It is outrageous that a publicly funded government building is picking and choosing who can meet in that building,” she said.

The cancellation has also sparked a strong reaction in the Creston Valley, with supporters accusing the regional district of political interference and censorship.

Dirk Kunze, a Wynndel resident, said the reversal raises questions about whether political parties can access publicly funded community spaces.

“They sent out a public briefing notice that said all the right things. They said we’re neutral. We don’t ban events, and then an hour later they cancelled it. They contravened their own policy,” Kunze said.

But Brodie’s presence in the valley has also prompted criticism from Indigenous leaders.

Members of the Yaqan Nukiy have publicly opposed her visit, citing concerns about her past statements on reconciliation.

In a social media post, Inismi Luke, a councillor for the Lower Kootenay Band, described Brodie as divisive and called for a peaceful counter-protest.

“I can’t believe I’m posting this and someone from this community and valley is aligned with a person like this,” Luke wrote. “This person, who thrives on fear and misinformation, she is here to stir the pot, and divide.”  

In response, Brodie said her comments have focused on public claims surrounding unmarked graves at former residential school sites, arguing such claims should be supported by evidence.

She denied dismissing the existence of residential schools or the harms associated with them.

“This is not to say that there weren’t residential schools or that there weren’t things that happened there that were sad and unfortunate and probably included some abuse,” Brodie said.

“Really, this is about the 215 [unmarked graves in Kamloops] and there needs to be a reckoning on this portion of this file so that Canadians can really understand the truth, because without truth, any policies that are built on the basis of that story are weak.”

When asked about concerns her visit could be seen as divisive, Brodie said disagreement is essential to politics.

“By nature, politics has divisions in it. That’s what politics is,” she said.

“We have discussions. We get together. We talk. And if people can’t talk, they get angry. If you think that people having a different opinion from you is divisive, then I don’t know what to say to you.”

Despite the cancellation, organizers said Brodie still plans to be in the Creston area on Feb. 12. A new venue has yet to be announced.

Brodie said those who have signed up to attend will get an email prior to the event with information on the location.

Want to get your business noticed? Have you considered advertising through your local radio station? Speak to one of our sales agents and find out how radio advertising can boost your business today. Call 250-365-7600 or email Vista Radio.

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After 23 years, Prince George Animal Rescue Society is permanently closing.

The owners are retiring from rescue, according to a recent Facebook post.

The group notes since 2020, insurance for the rescue was becoming more expensive.

In addition, the animal rescue gave thanks to vets, techs and admins at College Heights Vet Clinic.

Two dogs and two horses remain in their care to find homes and still have several adoption contracts to fulfill.

The PG rescue’s website and social media accounts will still be active until those commitments are complete.

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A local businessman and broadcaster is running for Grand Forks City Council.

Shaun Aquiline is the co-owner of the Grand Forks Historic GEM Theatre with his wife, Kirstin, and a morning announcer on 102.3 Juice FM.

Aquiline, who announced his intentions last week, has worked in small cities and towns for over a decade and has observed political dealings from the outside.

Now he wants to help Grand Forks grow through economic development and tourism.

“I want to see this area have a chance to succeed so we can pass the keys to Gen Alpha and Gen Beta when they grow up,” Aquiline said.

He says it may involve looking back at the city’s official community plan from 2011.

“Branching off and having a tourism arm and doing things that are progressive and inviting to others to come and also navigating that while we understand small towns don’t want to bite off more than they can chew,” he said.

Aquiline understands people are hesitant to change but notes anything would not happen overnight – it would be a “slow burn” – since the city is not a resort town getting external funding.

“We do not have those external dollars that really boost resort towns so we have to be fast and quick and think on our feet. We have to be grassroots. We have to be creative and innovative and by that, that means that those progressive movements are very slow, they’re easy to digest,” he said.

Aquiline says strategies to get people off Highway 3 to visit Grand Forks could trickle down to seeing a fraction of those visitors decide to buy a home.

He says the city needs to “think outside the box, what are things that we can do that make this place exactly what it is, without upsetting the apple cart?”

Aquiline, 42, has been married to Kirstin for almost ten years. They have two sons – 9-year-old Jack and 6-year-old Carter.

Municipal election day is Oct. 17, 2026.

For transparency, listeners should know that Shaun Aquiline, a candidate in this election, is a host on this station.

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The Trail Skills Centre announced last week that executive director Morag Carter will be leaving the organization at the end of March after eight years, due to reduced and eliminated government funding. 

I imagine you were not looking to leave and the board didn’t want you to go. It’s just the circumstances of funding.

Yes. Obviously, I’d hoped to stay a little bit longer. It’s definitely not how I wanted to end my career at the Skills Centre or my time in the Kootenays. But yes, it is all about funding. This is one of the things that has happened over the last few years. It’s been the collision of a series of unfortunate events impacting not just the Skills Centre, but businesses and organizations across the country and throughout the province.

What do you think about the future of the organization? You are at the whim of provincial or federal policy and what money that provides. 

Over the years, the Skills Centre has been able to reinvent ourselves several times. Things like funding crises happen all too frequently in the not-for-profit sector. One of both the realities and the fragilities of the sector is that we are subject to the perceived directions that funders want to drive things in. But we’re also subject to the realities funders face.

In this particular case, while we have over the years diversified our funding significantly and have many more funders than we did less than 10 years ago, the nature of the work that we do, which is to provide labour market supports both to community members and to businesses in the area, means that the money we need to operate flows through from federal transfers through the labour market agreement and then to the province and then down to us.

There have been some very significant changes over the last couple of years. The federal government reduced the labour market transfers to all of the provinces, and BC took a fairly significant hit. After that, less money flows down into communities to help people. So ultimately, these decisions, while they may be understandable because of the pressures that national and provincial governments are under, impact the community.

That’s the sad thing about this. Whether I stay at the Skills Centre, it’s not a bigger deal than how many people in community aren’t going to be helped as a result of the reduction in funding available not just for the Skills Centre, but for a lot of other organizations in the area and throughout the province. 

What are you most proud of during your time at the Skills Centre? 

I am so proud of the staff. They are absolutely incredible. They have done amazing work to serve the people in Trail and throughout the West Kootenay and actually over into the Central and East Kootenay as well. I’m so proud of the work they have done and I’m so proud of the community members that they have helped. I’m proud of the community members who have then gone on to build really wonderful careers for themselves.

The Skills Centre has made a fairly big difference in in Trail. We bought a building a few years ago and did a very significant environmental renovation to bring it right up to code. It served as a great talking point for how buildings can be reimagined for a longer future. Many not-for-profits survive on shoestrings and hopes and prayers. But what we’ve done with the building is to create a space where nonprofits can actually thrive. It has state-of-the-art technology. And that kind of change that we have helped catalyze not only for ourselves, but for other organizations and Trail, is something I’m very proud of. 

What’s next for you? 

My husband actually lives on the mid-coast, in a small island community. We’ve been doing the long-distance commute for the last couple of years. So I’m going to be going back to be reunited with him, which is going to be good for my own physical and mental health. I’m in the retirement zone, but I don’t feel anywhere close to being done. I’ve got hopes to continue doing work to support the not-for-profit community. That has been my passion for all of my career. 

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It was a familiar first finisher on the solo women’s side of the 39th annual Prince George Iceman.

For the second straight year, Juliette Davies was the first solo female racer out of the pool.

“It feels really good, I didn’t feel quite as prepared fitness-wise this year, so I was just committed to going out and having fun,” she said following her swim.

This year’s race was different than usual. The five kilometre skate portion of the race was cancelled due to unseasonably warm temperatures in Prince George last week.

“I sort of was mentally prepared to have that break and when I found out the skate was cancelled, that was a bit disappointing, and it was just about reshaping what I was thinking in terms of my approach to the race,” Davies said.

The warm temperatures also brought tough conditions for the ski. The trails at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club were almost ice themselves, but were also soft in some areas.

“It was a little rough, I fell twice on the first lap,” Davies said.

“It was entirely on me, I just caught edges.”

Another deviation from the norm saw the 800 metre swimming portion of the event moved to the Canfor Leisure Pool because of ongoing renovations to the Aquatic Centre.

The lane pool in the Canfor Leisure Pool is just 25 metres, as opposed to the 50 metre pool at the Aquatic Centre.

“There was a lot more people, especially at the turnarounds, at the end of the lane you didn’t have nearly as much time to pass, so it was a little bit more chaotic,” Davies added.

“I wasn’t expecting this one to be so warm, that was a shock when I jumped in.”

Racers in the pool had to complete laps in one pool, get out and move to another pool to do two more laps, repeating this process multiple times.

On the men’s side there was another repeat winner, but not as recent as a year ago.

Chris Pendray won the event in 2018, but hasn’t run the event solo since.

“It was way warmer, just generally better conditions, conditions were fast,” he said following the race.

“Conditions were really fast on the ski, and then in the running it wasn’t slippery at all.”

In addition to changes in the course, a large gaggle of runners faced an unexpected roadblock: a train that crossed the path of the race.

Full results will be posted on the Iceman website.

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Sports by Hartley Monday, February 9th, 2026  as of 12:05 a.m.

Winter Games:

Prince George snowboard cross racer Meryeta O’Dine suffered a broken ankle in practice Friday which means she will not be competing in the 2026 Winter Games at Milano Cortina.

The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canada Snowboard confirmed O’Dine fell during a training session that resulted in a fracture to an ankle bone.

The 28-year-old O’Dine won a pair of bronze medals at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, one in the women’s solo event and the other in the mixed team event.

#

P.G. athletes that are competing in Italy include long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly, ski cross racer Gavin Rowell  and snowboard cross racer Evan Bichon.

WHL:

Prince George Cougars  4  Kelowna Rockets  1  (Saturday)

The Cougars scored three unanswered goals in the second period, two of them on the power play from Dmitri Yakutsenak, in front of 5,734 hometown fans.

The two teams split their doubleheader on Indigenous weekend.

The game summary is here.

Kelowna Rockets  3  Prince George Cougars  2  (Friday)

Tij Iginla snapped a 2-2 tie with a power-play goal (while Kelowna was enjoying a 2-man advantage) at 6:29 of the 3rd period before 4,607 fans at CN Centre.

The game summary is here.

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just two points ahead of the
(25-17-6-4) Kamloops Blazers and three in front of the (26-17-5-2) Rockets.

The Cougars and Blazers have a home and home against each other this week as the two teams play Friday in P.G. and Saturday in Kamloops.

Prince George has just 17 games left in the regular season; 7 at home and 10 on the road.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP say a 34-year-old woman has gone missing and they’re looking for leads to find her.  

According to police, Rosemarie Harry went missing on Feb. 4, and her parents have been concerned about her health and well-being after a prolonged period of no contact.  

She is described as an Indigenous woman, five feet tall, with black hair and brown eyes.  

Anyone with information is asked to contact North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-748-5522.

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Two organizations have said the displacement of the homeless population on Lewis Street in North Cowichan has had considerable ripples in the community and are asking the municipality to step up and do better. 

The displacement of the encampments happened on Nov. 17 after council elected to decrease the amount of street disorder and promote safety. 

In a letter from Island Health, Dr. Melissa Wan said there has been an increase in toxic drug poisoning, restrictions on emergency care, and challenges for those who need medical and social care. 

“Within a week of displacement, a record number of toxic drug poisoning events were reported by health and community partners,” said Wan. “Overdose risk remains elevated due to the reduced proximity to peers, outreach teams, and harm reduction services. Additionally, dispersal across less accessible areas increases time to intervention, with life-saving measures for those who use substances.” 

Wan said the municipality should review and reevaluation of the current locations for those who need homes and care should be considered to help reduce the impact on the region’s most vulnerable.  

“A review of the current sheltering locations with health and community partners would assist in this plan,” she said. “This request is made in the interest of reducing foreseeable health impacts and supporting coordinating planning across several sectors.” 

The Cowichan Coalition to end Homelessness weighed with Island Health to convey their concern, noting the situation residents on Lewis Street faced was unmanageable and adds more needs to be done.  

“The situation that has unfolded since the displacement is equally untenable and increasingly dangerous,” said the coalition. “We urgently request that mayor and council reconsider the sanctioned sites currently designed for our displaced residents, they’ve become uninhabitable due to rainfall, flooding, and tidal conditions.” 

The coalition said Chesterfield Track is a more viable option for the unhoused population.  

“The lot is unused, remains above water, and is fully accessible to Emergency Health Services, outreach teams, and the servicing of portable washroom facilities,” they said. “Its proximity to existing supports and its distance from private residences make it a far more viable and humane option than what is currently available at Somenos Marsh.” 

North Cowichan mayor Rob Douglas said he’s open to discussing the unfolding situation, but to move the location from Somenos Marsh a better location needs to be found, and Chesterfield Track isn’t viable. 

“It’s not a suitable location, there’s a quiet residential neighborhood surrounding it and if we were to allow an encampment it would create a corridor and make folks in the area very agitated,” said Douglas. “I think it would also raise some concerns with parents and kids.” 

The mayor said he’s open to discussing better options, and council is looking to pursue a similar model put forward by the City of Duncan. 

“We need more supportive housing style developments, like village style housing,” he said. “Our council has decided that village style housing is a model we want to pursue, and we’ve given direction to our staff to identify sites, and once they’re in place we’ll work with BC Housing to get funding.” 

Last year, Douglas said council will do what they need to for unhoused folks to set up in sustainable areas, with the hopes that an encampment won’t return to Lewis Street. 

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The Creston Valley Housing Corporation has reached a major milestone in its first community housing project.

The corporation has hired Nelson-based firm Cover Architecture Collaborative to begin architectural design work on a mixed-use housing and childcare development planned for 1501 Cedar St.

The firm will develop the plans for the project, which will combine a 110-space licensed childcare facility with 50 rental housing units.

“It is very exciting to actually have our project underway,” said Creston town councillor Denise Dumas, who also serves as the housing corporation board chair.

“We have been diligently laying the groundwork of the housing corporation for over a year, establishing the corporation, recruiting board members, learning good governance, and developing a values matrix that helps with decision-making.”

The housing corporation was established in 2024 to facilitate a supply of sustainable rental housing that serves a broad range of residents. It focuses on governance, project development and securing partnerships to move its projects forward.

The corporation said it is working with Cover Architecture to design a modern, functional building that supports both “family-oriented childcare services” and “community-focused housing.”

Dumas said the main floor will house the childcare facility. The “family-oriented design” will allow children from the same family to be in the same space.

“The childcare facility is being designed to support all ages of children from infant to after-school care. This ultimately allows all the children from a family to be in the same child care centre since all age brackets are covered,” she said.

The residential units will be built on top of the childcare facility, with designs ranging from studio suites to three-bedroom units.

She emphasized that the building is not being operated to target any particular demographic or income group.

“It is market housing for anyone seeking to rent units,” said Dumas.

The housing corporation is hoping to have shovels in the ground by this summer, with construction expected to be complete by fall 2027.

The childcare portion of the project must be open by July 2027 to align with provincial grant requirements — a target Dumas believes is attainable.

“We are quite confident [in the construction timeline]. We have hired a very experienced project manager who has been guiding this project on behalf of the board of directors. He has developed, in collaboration with the contractors, the schedule,” she said.

Dumas reiterated that the housing portion is not low-income or subsidized housing, nor a seniors project. There is also no rental wait-list, and neither the Town of Creston nor the housing corporation will be accepting names or applications for future apartments.

Information about unit availability and application processes will be shared publicly at a later stage once timelines are confirmed.

“We know there is strong interest in housing in Creston,” said Dumas. “That’s exactly why it’s important to be clear and transparent about what this project is — and what it isn’t — as we move forward.”

She emphasized that the venture is a housing corporation project, not a project of the Town of Creston.

“This is a completely separate entity. This project is not funded by local tax dollars, nor will it be. There is a provincial grant for the childcare, but the housing corporation has sought out private borrowing for the residential units. There’s no connection to this borrowing and the Town of Creston,” she said.

The province is providing more than $10.8 million for the childcare component through its ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund. The funds for the housing portion will be secured through private borrowing.

The housing corporation has also launched its website. As planning continues, the corporation said it will provide updates through its website to ensure transparency. Click here for more information.

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The Prince George Public Library (PGPL) will be honouring multiple people at the 41st annual Jeanne Clarke Local History Awards.

Bill Poser, Ray Olson and Linda Campbell will each be receiving the 2026 Local History Service Award.

Poser’s dedication to the documentation, preservation, and revitalization of Dakelh language and history spans more than three decades, with contributions which have had a profound and lasting impact on Indigenous language work in the region.

Olson and Campbell are being recognized for their work sharing and promoting the history of small towns and communities east of Prince George on the “East Line.”

The following are up for the 2026 publication award:

• The wild horses of the Chilcotin : their history and future / Wayne McCrory. Harbour Publishing, 2023.
• The Notorious Georges : crime and community in British Columbia’s northern interior, 1909-25 / Jonathan Swainger. UBC Press for the Osgoode Society for Canadian Legal History, 2023.
• Knots & stitches : community quilts across the harbour / Kristin Miller. Caitlin Press, 2023.
• A gentleman of considerable talent : William Brown and the fur trade, 1811-1827 / Geoff Mynett. Caitlin Press, 2024.
• Lha yudit’ih we always find a way : bringing the Tŝilhqot’in title case home / Lorraine Weir with Chief Roger William. Talonbooks, 2023.
• Going north : memorabilia of tourism in Alaska, Yukon, and Northern British Columbia / by Stan Cohen. Mountain Press Publishing Company, 2024.
• Shattered glass : sonic epilogues; tales and knowledge from luminary musicians / Mike Gouchie. BWL Publishing Inc., 2025.

According to the PGPL, the Jeanne Clarke Local History Award was established by the Library Board in 1985, in memory of former library board chair Jeanne Clarke to recognize individuals or groups for outstanding contributions to the preservation and promotion of local and regional history.

The 41st annual Jeanne Clarke Local History Awards will take place on February 22nd.

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The Prince George RCMP is looking for volunteers to join its Community Policing Unit.

“Volunteers make such a difference,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“We are grateful for our volunteers who have provided us with their amazing generosity and dedication over the years, and we are looking to expand this dedicated volunteer team in several key areas.”

Areas in which Mounties are looking for volunteers includes:

• Community Policing Front Desk – front line workers serving witness subpoenas, fielding inquiries and providing customer assistance.
• Restorative Justice – work with youth and adult offenders, providing an effective alternative to the criminal justice system with a focus on accountability, problem solving and community healing.
• Victim Services – provide emotional support for victims of crime or trauma; liaise between the victim, Court system, law enforcement and community agencies, providing helpful referral services.
• Safety Bear – the goodwill ambassador and mascot of the Prince George RCMP, attends special events and citywide functions with a whimsical approach.

Requirements for volunteering include: be at least 19 years of age, mature, and demonstrate good judgement; be able to obtain an RCMP Enhanced Reliability Security Clearance before volunteering; be a Canadian Citizen or have Permanent Residency status; have a valid Class 5 Driver’s License and provide a Driver’s Abstract upon acceptance and annually thereafter.

More information on volunteering is available by contacting Victim Services by calling 250-561-3329 or Community Policing by calling 250-561-3366.

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Textbook bounce back.

After a heartbreaking loss the night before, the Prince George Cougars rode a three-goal second period and stellar goaltending to a 4-1 win over the Kelowna Rockets Saturday night.

“It was a great job from our group tonight,” said Cougars Head Coach and GM Mark Lamb.

“I think the key was our defence. There were able to get the pucks up to our forwards and we just did a lot of things right. We mixed some things around tonight and it worked.”

The Cougars were driven by one of the best crowds they’ve had in a while, as 5,734 rowdy fans piled into the CN Centre for the second half of the team’s annual Indigenous Weekend.

Josh Ravensbergen was outstanding once again, stopping 31 of 32 shots.

“We needed this win,” Ravensbergen said on the post game show on 94.3 the Goat.

“We played a full 60. Maybe took a couple penalties we didn’t want, but we got it done and I’m very proud of our group.”

The two teams almost went into the first intermission scoreless.

With half of a second on the clock in the first period, Brock Souch found the back of the net on a great feed from Carson Carels.

Brock Souch gets the goal but how about that pass from Carson Carels to extend his point streak to 15 games? @CarlsJrCA https://t.co/Q0Xx7Kszur pic.twitter.com/W8V88LxvIN

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) February 8, 2026

 Dmitri Yakutsenak delivered a strong performance as well, scoring a pair of nearly identical goals in the period, both set up by Terik Parascak.

So nice they did it twice. @CarlsJrCA https://t.co/5qOUgx4tR8 pic.twitter.com/tCoq5gl62f

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) February 8, 2026

Arsenii Anisimov also found the back of the net, beating Josh Banini with a long range wrist shot.

Arsenii Anisimov. That’s the post. @CarlsJrCA https://t.co/VEB7VW2LzT pic.twitter.com/tqI3dOPLip

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) February 8, 2026

In the dying seconds of a Dawson Seitz penalty in the third, Owen Folstrom ended Ravensbergen’s shutout bid with a one-time shot.

The box score is here.

The Cougars (30-19-2-0) are second in the WHL’s BC Division.

The WHL standings are here.

The Cougars host the Kamloops Blazers Friday for the first game of a home-and-home.

The full Cougars schedule is here.

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Sports by Darin, as of 6:00 am, Sunday, February 8:

WHL:

Prince George Cougars  4  Kelowna Rockets  1

Dmitri Yakutsenak found the back of the net twice, while Arsenii Anisimov and Brock Souch scored once each.

Josh Ravensbergen made 30 saves in the win.

The box score is here.

The Cougars (30-19-2-0) are second in the WHL’s BC Division.

The WHL standings are here.

The Cougars host the Kamloops Blazers Friday for the first game of a home-and-home.

The full Cougars schedule is here.

BCHL:

Prince George Spruce Kings  4  Victoria Grizzlies  2

Trent LeDrew, Tai Ushio, Dominic Szczygiel, and Mason Loewen all scored for the Spruce Kings.

Ryder Green stopped 21 shots on the night.

The box score is here.

The Spruce Kings (24-13-2-0) are on top of the BCHL’s Coastal East Division.

The BCHL standings are here.

The Spruce Kings will travel to Burns Lake to host the Coquitlam Express for the BCHL Road Show.

The full Spruce Kings schedule is here.

Canada West Men’s Basketball:

TRU  78  UNBC  76

The Timberwolves finish the season with a 2-18 record, the worst in Canada West Basketball.

Canada West Women’s Basketball:

TRU  65  UNBC  57

UNBC finishes the season with a 1-19 record, the worst record in the Pacific Division.

Olympics:

As of 6:00 am, Canada has one Bronze Medal at the Olympics.

Prince George’s Meryeta O’Dine will not be competing in snowboard cross, after sustaining an ankle injury in a training session.

PG Snowboarder ruled out of Olympic Competition following ankle injury https://t.co/3I81AFCZWa

— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) February 7, 2026

 NFL:

WAKE UP, IT’S SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

Super Bowl LX– 6:30pm ET on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/3YlDGIcWuK

— NFL (@NFL) February 8, 2026

NBA:

Brooklyn  127  Washington  113

Houston  112  Oklahoma City  106

San Antonio  138  Dallas  125

Orlando  120  Utah  117

Charlotte  126  Atlanta  119

Denver  136  Chicago  120

LA Lakers  105  Golden State  99

Philadelphia  109  Phoenix  103

Cleveland  132  Sacramento  126

Portland  122  Memphis  115

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A Castlegar city councillor says she “did the happy dance” as she watched the Eremenko Block come down late last month.

“That’s been a project that’s been on our radar for a very long time, so kudos to everybody involved,” Cherryl MacLeod told her fellow councillors.

“Sad but true, this looks so much better now that it’s done and we finally have that box checked. So congratulations to mayor and council, because I think that was a huge undertaking on our behalf. And lots of people, I think, now are seeing our vision for what could be downtown now that that eyesore is gone.”

The city bought the property in 2021 with plans to develop a mixed-use project on the site, including the new home of the Kootenay Gallery plus housing. The gallery has since purchased a different building across the street, but the city still hopes to build housing on the Eremenko site.

The Eremenko block was designed by prominent West Kootenay architect Bill Williams and built in 1947-48 as a department store known as A. Eremenko & Co. The building was later home to Columbia Stores and Fields. It was last used in 2006 by the Selkirk Challengers gymnastics club and had been vacant since. A shoe store added in 1968 had also long been vacant.

Councillor Brian Bogle said he spent about 45 minutes watching the excavator operator take the buildings down.

“In a tight space, it was amazing,” he said. “It was almost like watching an artist. It was amazing to watch it go down and a good feeling … It was a wonderful couple of days, actually, in my world.”

While both buildings have been reduced to rubble, there is more work to be done. City project manager Anne Simonen said the ruins are being sorted into recoverable wood and metal waste, and the rest will be trucked to the landfill. Afterward, the basement and concrete foundation will be removed, and the lots will be filled and levelled.

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Dominic Szczygiel picked a great time to end a 10-game scoring slump.

The 18-year-old forward from New Jersey scored the game-winning goal at 5:12 of the third period as the Prince George Spruce Kings doubled up the Victoria Grizzlies 4-2 in front of 1,319 fans at the Q Centre.

Cariboo Cougar alum Mason Loewen added the insurance marker notching his 11th of the season into an empty net.

Loewen also assisted on the Spruce Kings first goal feeding Trent LeDrew who sniped home a shot past Grizzlies goalie Mikus Vecvanags 12 seconds in.

Michael Dowdall evened the score at 1-1, scoring his seventh of the campaign past PG netminder Ryder Green.

The Spruce Kings re-claimed the lead prior to the first intermission courtesy of Tai Ushio on the power-play from Ozbej Rep and Marcus Lougheed.

In the second, Victoria evened the score again courtesy of Parker MacDougall on the man-advantage.

Prince George outshot the Grizzlies 43-23 and went 1-for-6 on the power-play while Victoria was 1-for-4.

Vecvanags made 39 saves in defeat for Victoria.

Green on the other hand, continues his resurgence in the Spruce Kings crease improving to 13-4-0 with a 2.60 goals against average and a .909 save percentage.

The Spruce Kings (24-13-2-0) leapfrogged the Coquitlam Express (23-13-1-1) for first place in the Coastal East Division, by two points.

Coquitlam fell 6-3 on Saturday to the Chilliwack Chiefs on Saturday night.

Both teams clash in Burns Lake next weekend at the BCHL Showcase Saturday (7pm) and Sunday (1pm) at the Tom Forsyth Arena.

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School District 57 Trustees will be reviewing the total remuneration of its Board at Tuesday’s public meeting.

According to a recommended motion, the role of a Trustee has expanded significantly in scope, complexity, and time commitment including attending meetings, participate in committee work, and represent the District across the region.

Included for consideration are:

• Extended Health and Dental benefits
• Insurance (Accidental Death and Dismemberment)
• Technology Allowance (phone, hardware, home internet service)
• Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Remuneration for Chair and Vice Chair
• Other related items

The review is expected to be complete to be part of the 2026/27 budget cycle, with any changes to remuneration to be recommended to commence after this year’s civic election on Saturday, October 17th.

The full meeting agenda can be found here.

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A collaborative effort from Cowichan Search and Rescue (CSR) and North Shore Rescue proved successful after a paraglider crashed into a cliff near Mount Prevost. 

According to North Shore Rescue (NSR), the paraglider was rendered unconscious after striking the rockface, and one bystander is to be credited with a heroic rescue.  

“A person hiking in the area climbed up to the subject’s location, cut the cords and removed the paraglider’s harness and administered first aid, likely saving the person’s life,” said NSR. 

Both NSR and CSR aided rescue the paraglider and the bystander well into the evening hours during what they’re calling a very tricky extraction. 

“Thanks to North Shore Rescue and Talon Helicopters, as well as the bystanders who put themselves at considerable risk,” said Cowichan Search and Rescue. “Our members were repositioning for an alternative approach if NSR was not able to successfully extricate the subject from the extremely challenging location.” 

The paraglider was ultimately rescued and handed off to BCEHS for medical treatment. 

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Prince George can look forward to Family Day weekend with Downtown Winterfest.

The day long event will take place at the Civic Centre and Plaza, kicking off after the Downtown Markets and the PG Legion pancake breakfast.

Executive Director Chrisie Berry said with the weather being more spring-like, it’s not a big deal.

“The Ice Playground is not happening this year for a number of reasons, so we moved it to the Civic Centre.”

“The mini rail can still go. The warmer the weather, the more people are going to ride that train, and we have access to the skating rink that tourism PG has with the container market, and lucky for us, it doesn’t matter what the weather’s doing, that rink can still operate.”

Other activities taking place during Winterfest include a s’mores contest, live music, and more.

Winterfest takes place February 14th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m..

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Prince George snowboard cross racer Meryeta O’Dine will not be competing in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano Crotina.

The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canada Snowboard confirmed O’Dine fell during a snowboard cross training session that resulted in a fracture to an ankle bone, prevent her from competing for the remainder of the Games.

They add she is currently receiving care and will continue to be monitored by the medical team as she begins her recovery.

O’Dine is a three-time Olympic team member and two-time Olympic medallist.

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Local Indigenous artist Johnny Mukwa has donated artwork to the Kootenay Lake Hospital’s oncology department.

“We truly appreciate Johnny’s generosity and his wonderful contribution to Kootenay Lake Hospital. Having Indigenous art in our facilities sends the message that everyone is welcome,” said Tyler Van Ramshorst, director of clinical operations at Kootenay Lake Hospital.

Interior Health said Mukwa donated the two art pieces, Forest Spirits 1 and Forest Spirits 2, to Kootenay Lake Hospital. They are located in the hallway where oncology patients and families will see it in a gesture that was deeply personal to him.

“My father is currently fighting cancer. Woodland art is often referred to as medicine painting, and it carries profound healing qualities,”explained Makwa, who is a local Métis artist of Anishinaabe descent.

“It is my hope that these paintings can bring a sense of peace, strength, and comfort to patients and their families during their healing journeys.”

Makwa is a talented Woodland artist from Thunder Bay, Ontario with a rich mixed Anishinaabe and Métis ancestry.

Before discovering his passion for Woodland-style painting, he explored other artistic mediums, including abstract stone sculpture and Métis dot art.

In February 2025, he began an apprenticeship under the guidance of the renowned Woodland artist Mark Anthony Jacobson, marking the beginning of his journey in this distinctive style.

“I’m deeply inspired by the traditions and aesthetics of this unique style. My artistic practice is characterized by clean line work and vibrant, bright colors, which serve as a visual representation of the spiritual growth and connection I’m cultivating through my exploration of Anishinaabe culture and art,” added Makwa.

Since embracing the Woodland style, IH said Makwa has gained notoriety in the art world, with several well-received art shows in the Kootenay region of British Columbia.

His artwork, characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate designs, is highly sought after by collectors of Woodland art. His unique perspective and skillful execution have established him as a rising talent in the art community.

More of Makwa’s art can be found here. 

Want to get your business noticed? Have you considered advertising through your local radio station? Speak to one of our sales agents and find out how radio advertising can boost your business today. Call 250-365-7600 or email Vista Radio.

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Repair and upgrade work at the Saltery Bay boat launch is scheduled to begin Feb. 16 and continue until March 6, the City of Powell River said in a social media post.

Boat users can expect delays and interruptions when accessing the facilities during that period.

Boaters are advised to plan ahead.

The post said questions or concerns can be directed to [email protected].

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100 Mile House RCMP with assistance from BC Highway Patrol have been monitoring and taking enforcement action at the intersection of Highway 97 and Horse Lake Road.

Police say they have been receiving reports of vehicles, more specifically semi tractor and trailer units running late yellow and red lights at this intersection.

As a result several drivers have been ticketed in the last few weeks.

The violation ticket penalty is $167.

Police say they will continue enforcement in that area as well as other intersections along Highway 97 through 100 Mile House.

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WHL:

The Prince George Cougars dropped game one of Indigenous Weekend 3-2 in regulation against the Kelowna Rockets yesterday (Friday).

The two teams play again at CN Centre tonight at 6:00.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

The WHL standings are here.

BCHL:

The Prince George Spruce Kings took a 4-3 overtime road win over the the Nanaimo Clippers yesterday (Friday).

The Spruce Kings continue their road trip tonight, as they face the Victoria Grizzlies at 6:00.

Canada West Basketball:

The visiting UNBC Timberwolves women’s basketball team lost 53-44 to the TRU Wolfpack at home yesterday (Friday).

The men’s team had a similar story, also losing to the Wolfpack at home 77-60.

Both teams play their final game of the season tonight, with women’s at 5:00 and 7:00 for the men.

The Canada West women’s basketball schedule is here.

The Canada West women’s basketball standings are here.

The Canada West men’s basketball schedule is here.

The Canada West men’s basketball standings are here.

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Sometimes the harder you try, the worse it gets.

The UNBC Timberwolves men’s basketball team found out the hard way on Friday night falling 77-60 at the hands of the Thompson Rivers Wolfpack at the Northern Sports Centre.

A 25-16 run by TRU in the fourth quarter proved to be the dagger for the T-Wolves who were once again without star power-forward Evgeny Baukin due to injury.

UNBC went 9-for-26 from beyond the arch while the Wolfpack went 9-for-18.

Jayden Stephens and Caden Scott each had a team high of 15 points for TRU. Stephens went 6-for-14 on field goals, while Scott converted five times on seven attempts.

Chris Ainsely hooped 18 points in defeat for the Timberwolves, who dropped to 2-17 on the season while the Wolfpack improved to 11-8.

UNBC committed 17 turnovers while TRU coughed it up 11 times.

In women’s action, it was a scrappy fight to the end; however, it wasn’t quite enough for the Timberwolves dropping a 53-44 decision to the Wolfpack earlier in the day.

Sydney Vollrath had 14 points in the victory for Thompson Rivers (7-12).

First-year Australian import Sydney Merrigan was a monster on the glass for the black and orange gobbling up 20 rebounds to go with 11 points.

Second-year Kamloops native Morgan Eichenberger chipped in with a 10-point performance in 14 minutes of action.

Despite the limited minutes on Friday, Eichenberger is making a name for herself in the Canada West Conference. She sits third in field-goal percentage (48.3), total rebounds (173) and rebounds per-game averaging just over nine contests.

Hazel Phillips was the top scorer for UNBC with 15 points.

TRU won the game despite going 21-for-70 on field goals while the Timberwolves went 13-for-55.

The Wolfpack won the battle in the paint outscoring the T-Wolves 26-10 in the trenches.

Both UNBC basketball teams play their last game of the season tonight (Saturday) at 5pm (women) and 7pm (men) from the Northern Sports Centre.

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The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary has promoted from within in naming a new chief administrative officer.

James Chandler, who has been the deputy for the past eight years, will take over the top job when Mark Andison retires next month.

Chandler came to the RDKB in 2018 from the City of Port Moody, where he was manager of engineering services. At the RDKB he has also been serving as general manager of operations.

Andison has been with the organization for 24 years and served as CAO since 2017.

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Nick Bianchi picked a good time to be clutch.

The 19-year-old blueliner scored twice, including the game-winner at 7:57 of overtime, giving the Prince George Spruce Kings a 4-3 victory against the Nanaimo Clippers in front of 1,335 fans at the Frank Crane Arena on Friday.

After a scoreless first period, both teams turned the contest into a track meet.

Michael Denny opened the scoring on the power-play just 31 seconds in handcuffing Matthew Hutchinson for a 1-0 lead.

It didn’t take long for Nanaimo to push back as Samuel Boisvert responded with a man-advantage goal of his own lighting the lamp against PG netminder Colin Reay.

Indian Grossbard gave the Clippers their only leads of the game as he cashed in on a Caden Okovita pass making it 2-1 edge.

Bianchi scored his first of two 31 seconds later accepting a feed from Spencer Masters to even the score at 2-2 at the conclusion of 40 minutes

The string of power-play goals continued in the third as Tanner Bruender (Nanaimo) and Ryan Wachtel (PG) traded goals to force overtime.

Nanaimo outshot the Spruce Kings 44-32 and went 2-for-5 on the power-play while PG was 2-for-3. With the win, PG clinches a playoff spot.

Reay made 41 saves in the win while Hutchinon stopped 29 Spruce Kings pucks in defeat.

Prince George (23-13-2-0) remains tied for first place in the Coastal East Division with the Coquitlam Express.

The Express (23-12-1-1) edged the Alberni Valley Bulldogs 3-2 on Friday.

A four-game road trip for the Spruce Kings ends tonight (Saturday) against the Victoria Grizzlies (18-18-2-0). Puck drop is at 6pm from the Q Centre.

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The volunteer organization that looks after the Crawford Bay hall is hoping 2026 will be the year a major overhaul of the over 87-year-old building begins.

Leona Keraiff, one of the directors of the Crawford Bay & District Hall & Parks Association, says they have raised over $1.9 million en route to a goal of $2.17 million.

“So we’re looking for the final $235,000 and we’ve been applying for lots of grants,” she says.

Under the terms of the energy retrofit grant that has provided them with the bulk of their funding, they can’t get underway in earnest until all of the money is in place.

The project began several years ago when the society started to investigate putting a new roof on the hall, which was built in 1938. A structural engineer told them the foundation would also need reinforcing while a hazmat study uncovered lead paint in the exterior.

Keraiff said they want to add Hardie board siding and ensure the building meets FireSmart standards because Crawford Bay doesn’t have a fire department. To improve energy efficiency, they will add an air source heat pump, improve the doors and windows, and install a better HVAC system.

They also want to build a new entryway and make the building more accessible, with an entrance for wheelchairs and people with mobility issues. That would further allow the building to finally have a cloakroom. Other plans call for a donor wall and historical displays to tell the story of community members who have used the building for decades.

Except for the COVID years, Keraiff said the hall has been used continuously since it was built. The old Crawford Bay school was attached to the building, and the school lunch program started there. The hall now regularly hosts seniors lunches, youth activities, yoga, and qigong, as well as Remembrance Day ceremonies, Christmas events, and seed swaps.

“All the things that when the community wants to gather to celebrate or to mourn or to sing or to dance, they go to the hall,” Keraiff said. 

In 2008, the board learned that in order to be eligible for grants, they needed to own the property, which at that time belonged to the school district. It took a decade to save enough money and negotiate the transfer. Fundraising for the building upgrades began in 2020 with help from the Columbia Basin Trust.

Keraiff said the first step was to raise enough to hire professionals, including an architect and engineers, and then proceed with design work.

While the first phase of the project should kick off this year, upgrades to the kitchen, washroom, and parking lot will have to wait. It’s not clear yet to what degree the hall will still be available for use as the work proceeds.

Keraiff said their seven-member board, which also has stewardship of Crawford Bay Community Park and the Kootenay Bay boat launch, is applying for further grants.

While it is a lot of work, Keraiff said she is motivated “from absolute love of the community and the building.” She has lived in Crawford Bay for 40 years and on the East Shore for closer to 50 years. Her husband taught at Crawford Bay school, their three children attended the school, and at one time the hall was used as a classroom.

“Our family’s story and our community life has just happened before our eyes in the hall for many, many years,” Keraiff said. “I’ve come to love the building and I’ve just watched it deteriorate.

“From the outside, I have to admit it’s kind of embarrassing to look at. It looks very tired, but you walk inside and you can just feel the energy and the presence of the people who’ve lived there for so long. And I just feel that it represents community life.

“Certainly in small places like ours, it takes longer to accomplish big things because there are fewer of us. But as more people hear about our project, they’ve been generous. We’re grateful for the support we’ve been given and hopefully we can begin this year because it’s hard for people to be patient. We understand that.”

Keraiff said at one time there was discussion about demolishing the hall and starting over, but they opted instead for a restoration bit-by-bit.

“Luckily,” she said, “the people who have been supporting us feel as we do about the value of community. Small town Canada exists in a different way than some urban centers, that’s for sure.”

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Indigenous Weekend isn’t off to the best start for the Prince George Cougars, on the ice, at least.

The Cats kicked off the weekend with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to the Kelowna Rockets.

“It was a heck of a hockey game,” said Cougars Head Coach and GM Mark Lamb on the post game show on 94.3 the Goat.

“In the first period I thought we gave them too many outnumbered rushes, and we fixed that, but what we haven’t fixed is penalties.”

A pair of penalties in the third proved to be the difference in the hockey game.

With Aiden Foster in the box for an offensive zone roughing penalty and Brock Souch in as well for a delay of game, Utah Mammoth Prospect Tij Iginla fired home the winner with a perfect shot to break the hearts of the 4,607 fans at the CN Centre.

AND TIJ TAKES THE LEAD.

His 2⃣6⃣th of the season, and it’s on the POWERPLAY!@Kelowna_Rockets | @utahmammoth pic.twitter.com/lyPZa02Zhd

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) February 7, 2026

“That’s how you lose, so it really bothers me. It’s happening over and over, what was it, three in the offensive zone? Go and punch a guy right in the head, that’s how you lose.” Lamb said.

In total the Cougars found themselves shorthanded six times, but only gave up the one powerplay goal.

The Cougars started the game strong, keeping a good portion of the play to the Kelowna end.

The Cougars were given a bit of a momentum boost early, when captain Bauer Dumanski knocked out Tomas Poletin after receiving a hit on the numbers from the Rockets forward.

However, they were unable to capitalize in the period, and went into the intermission with a one-goal deficit courtesy of a late Connor Pankratz goal.

CONNOR PANKRATZ ONE-TIMER ALERT@Kelowna_Rockets pic.twitter.com/6PtwRgNHcP

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) February 7, 2026

The Cougars answered back twice early in the second.

Dawson Seitz got the Cougars on the board, taking his own rebound and firing the puck past Harrison Boettiger.

Dawson Seitz takes his own rebound and finishes this one for his 7th on the year!@CarlsJrCA https://t.co/ivhjV1LGmE pic.twitter.com/DEYZNB5xrU

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) February 7, 2026

Shortly after, Brock Souch gave the Cougars the lead, with a one-time blast on  a feed from Corbin Vaughan.

HIT EM WITH THE BROCK BLAST@CarlsJrCA https://t.co/H5HBT6Oxv2 pic.twitter.com/1E6sY4Xpv8

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) February 7, 2026

The lead didn’t last long for the Cougars, Owen Folstrom tied the game just 20 seconds after Souch gave the Cougars the lead.

AND WE’RE ALL TIED UP.

Owen Folstrom cuts the Cougars lead, and it’s 2-2.@Kelowna_Rockets pic.twitter.com/bDdy1N4YVN

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) February 7, 2026

Both goaltenders were excellent, earning first and second star nods.

Josh Ravensbergen turned away 27 of the 30 shots he faced, while Boettiger stopped 31 for the Rockets.

The box score is here.

The Cougars (29-19-2-0) are second in the BC Division, but the win brought the Rockets (26-16-5-2) to just one point behind the Cougars in the standings.

The WHL standings are here.

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The president of the North Island College Faculty Association said Thursday’s decision to suspend 15 programs is a devastating blow to post-secondary access for students in the North Island region.

Background: NIC board approves suspension of 15 programs : My Comox Valley Now

Jen Wrye said there was a sense of resignation and grief at the Courtenay campus Friday as staff and students worked to digest the impact of the decision from the college’s board of governors.

She said she is hopeful the college will work with affected students to ensure they are supported and that staff positions will be reduced only if necessary.

Jen Wrye comments:

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A four-year, $1 million grant was awarded to UNBC Professor Dr. Shannon Freeman to support people living with dementia and their caregivers across northern B.C.

This is through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Dementia Community Investment program, will go towards her project Care Partner Empowerment: Enhancing Lives in Dementia Care.

Dr. Freeman explains what the project is in partnership with Northern Health.

“In this project, we’re looking to tailor some tools and resources to better support family and friend caregivers across northern B.C. to empower them to provide evidence informed, high quality care for persons living with dementia.”

Dr. Freeman added they will be doing testing and trying things out with the community, getting feedback on what works and what doesn’t, and will start small with a few communities, then spread out provincially by the end of the four years.

She said the work is based on the expertise and experience of Northern Health already using a lot of the education, tools, and resources supporting professional caregivers, and making it more accessible.

According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada’s Landmark Study, it estimates almost 600,000 people were living with dementia in Canada in 2020, and by 2030, the number will reach close to 1 million, and triple over the next 30 years.

More information can be found on UNBC’s website here.

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The unemployment rate across northwest B.C. is up compared to a year ago.

According to Statistics Canada, the three month average ending in January was 9.6 per cent compared to 4 per cent in 2025.

“This January, we have 4,000 people unemployed and a year ago there were 1,800 people unemployed,” said Analyst Vincent Ferrao.

The mark is also up compared to December’s 8.3 per cent mark.

37,700 people were working in the region during that time compared to 43,400 people working in 2025.

Ferrao said employment dip felt was in the service industries including transportation and warehousing, and ‘other’ services.

That includes household, vehicle, and personal services.

Provincially, the unemployment rate was 6.1 per cent which is similar to the 6 per cent recorded a year prior.

The rate dropped 0.2 points federally to 6.5 per cent compared to 2025.

Here is a breakdown of all provinces:

• Quebec 5.2%
• Saskatchewan 5.3%
• Manitoba 6.3%
• Alberta 6.4%
• New Brunswick 6.7%
• Nova Scotia 6.9%
• Ontario 7.3%
• Prince Edward Island 7.6%
• Newfoundland and Labrador 9.2%

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The federal government is providing $5 million to help Loaves and Fishes Community Food Bank build a new distribution warehouse to support food banks across Vancouver Island and coastal B.C. 

The City of Nanaimo-based organization plans to use the money from Pacific Economic Development Canada, known as PacifiCan, to establish a central food recovery and distribution facility in Nanaimo.  

The new warehouse will increase storage capacity, accept larger donations and allow the group to send more food to remote communities, the government said in a news release. 

“Vancouver Island is home to dedicated leaders and organizations working hard to ensure families have access to healthy, reliable food. By supporting community resources like Loaves and Fishes, PacifiCan is helping ease everyday pressures for British Columbians and strengthening the resilience of communities across the region. This investment makes life more affordable today while building a stronger foundation for the future,” said Gregor Robertson, minister of housing and infrastructure and minister responsible for PacifiCan, in the release. 

The release said Loaves and Fishes serves more than 40 communities from Victoria to Haida Gwaii by collecting surplus food from grocers and wholesalers and redistributing it to schools, households and partner organizations. 

“PacifiCan’s investment enables Loaves and Fishes to scale what we do best: recover food that would otherwise be wasted and deliver it efficiently to the communities that need it most. This new facility will significantly strengthen food security across Vancouver Island and coastal B.C., particularly for remote and underserved communities,” said Peter Sinclair, executive director of Loaves and Fishes 

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College of the Rockies and Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE) have renewed their partnership with a new memorandum of understanding.

Their long-standing collaboration supports industry aligned training and workforce development in outdoor recreation. 

“KORE Outdoors has led the way in rural economic development in the outdoor industry. The renewed partnership with College of the Rockies keeps us moving toward our goal of making the Kootenays the epicentre of innovation, sustainability, and repair in the outdoor rec-tech industry, including training and workforce development.” said Matt Mosteller, Board Chair, Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. 

COTR and KORE’s goal is to support local outdoor recreation jobs and businesses, assist community development and help the outdoor recreation sector grow in the Kootenays.

The partnership works together to boost job training, industry events, knowledge exchange, and hands-on learning in areas such as gear repair, manufacturing and product innovation.

 “This agreement builds on a strong history of collaboration and reflects our shared commitment to supporting the outdoor recreation sector in our region. By working closely with industry, we can help ensure learners and businesses have access to the skills, facilities, and expertise needed to support sustainable economic growth.” said Michael Crowe, President, College of the Rockies. 

College of the Rockies brings strong education experience and expertise to the partnership with programs in outdoor recreation and adventure-based training. For over three decades the college has provided Mountain Adventure Skills Training and Adventure Tourism Business Operations programs which give a strong foundation for a future in the industry.

While the college programs help students and local businesses, KORE connects many outdoor businesses, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders from all over B.C.

KORE supports local gear makers, designers, and outdoor companies, and helps them get funding, training, and support.

This teamwork is critical in shaping industry needs by ensuring training and innovation efforts stay connected with the demands of real world operations. 

The COTR and KORE partnership helps the local economy as outdoor recreation is important to East Kootenay and brings money and jobs to the region.

While the partnership is rooted in the East Kootenay region, the outdoor recreation sector is also important to all of B.C. having contributed about $4.8 billion to the province’s economy in 2023.

Learn more about Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise at koreoutdoors.org.

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On February 11th, United Way BC, along with communities across North America, will be celebrating 211 Day.

211 British Columbia, which is a free, confidential service, aims to connect individuals to essential resources like food banks, mental health support, financial assistance, and legal resources.

According to the organization, Prince George recorded 628 calls to 211 in 2025.

The most common reason for contacting 211 was housing and homelessness, followed by provincial government services and general income and rental assistance.

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Sparwood council gave the okay for in-kind funding to the Sparwood Skating Club for their annual Ice Show.

The club puts on the show each year at the Sparwood Arena for all skaters to demonstrate their progress, dedication and hard work.

The Ice Show is made possible through significant volunteer efforts.

The club was requesting $2,324 of in-kind funds to cover the cost of the rental fees for the arena.

With the approval, $17,860 will be left in Sparwood’s 2026 Category 2 Community Funding and Support budget.

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The Strathcona Regional District is seeking public input on its upcoming financial plan after announcing it will consider Bylaw No. 631, the 2026–2030 financial plan and capital expenditure program.

The board will discuss the bylaw during its regular meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

According to the district, residents who wish to provide input on the plan may do so by submitting written comments to the regional district no later than noon on Friday, Feb. 20.

The financial plan can be viewed on the SRD’s website.

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A new sheriff is coming to Cranbrook and will be posted at the provincial courthouse.

Twelve new sheriffs graduated from the Justice Institute of British Columbia on Wednesday.

The recent graduates are being posted to Cranbrook, the Lower Mainland, Prince George, Courtenay, Campbell River, Nanaimo, Williams Lake and Oliver.

“I am so proud to welcome 12 deputy sheriff graduates to the BC Sheriff Service,” said Roger Phillips, chief sheriff and executive director, BC Sheriff Service.

“These graduates have been working incredibly hard toward completing the sheriff-recruit training and I am excited to see them bring their knowledge and skillset to our service.”

The graduates will be undergoing field training at courthouses alongside experienced sheriffs.

They should be ready for full deployment on Mar. 6.

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It was warm once again in the Cariboo yesterday (February 5).

Question is…was it record warm?

On Wednesday (February 4) Williams Lake had a chance to set a record and came up 0.1 degree short after reaching up to 9.9 degrees and the record for that day was 10 set back in 1963.

The Lake City had another opportunity yesterday (February 5) so we checked with Environment Canada Meteorologist Derek Lee to see if they fared any better.

“For both days it was very, very close but ended up not breaking any records. For yesterday Williams Lake was 0.3 degrees away but it was the second warmest day on record.”

Lee noted that Quesnel was actually warmer than Williams Lake the last couple of days but they too didn’t set any records as it was 2 to 4 degrees short of the mark.

He said it was still impressive that daytime temperatures were 8 to 12 degrees above normal.

“We are going to see cooler air coming down from the North but I don’t see any major precipitation yet for the Cariboo. On Sunday temperatures will start going down to one to two degrees in the daytime and overnight lows down to minus six. These temperatures are near the normal for this time of year.”

Lee added that the region is continuing this warm pattern and Environment Canada is anticipating that warmth to last until tomorrow (February 7) and with that, gusty winds, maybe even a few afternoon showers for Williams Lake and Quesnel.

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Real estate sales in the Kootenay-Boundary dropped 26 per cent in January compared to the same time last year.

The Association of Interior Realtors says the 123 recorded sales was also a drop from the 153 units sold in December.

There were 317 new listings recorded in January, which was a 9.7 per cent increase compared to the same month the previous year and also up from December’s 174 new listings.

Overall active listings in the region saw a 0.2 per cent increase compared to January 2025 with 1,184 recorded listings.

“Following a prolonged period of strong performance, the Kootenay market has entered the year at a slower pace,” president Kadin Rainville said in a news release.

“January, which is usually flat, came in below average this year, pointing to a shift toward more measured activity rather than the momentum seen in recent years.”

The benchmark price, which realtors say is a better representation of value compared to the average or median price as it represents a dwelling of typical attributes, saw a 2.5 per cent increase in the Kootenays in the single-family housing category compared to the same month the previous year, coming in at $569,700.

Townhomes saw a 0.2 per cent decrease in benchmark pricing, coming in at $492,300. Condos saw a benchmark price decrease of 1.2 per cent in year-over-year comparison, coming in at $334,100.

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North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are seeking witnesses and video footage from a stabbing in November.

Police said the incident happened in the area of the Somenos Road roundabout near the Canco gas station on Nov. 22, when officers responded to a disturbance involving several youths.

A short time later, RCMP received a second report of an injured person in nearby soccer fields and located a 21-year-old man with stab wounds. “Officers provided medical assistance until Emergency Health Services arrived and transported him to hospital,” said Cst. Tessa McDonald, media relations officer for the North Cowichan/Duncan detachment. “His injuries are considered non-life-threatening.”

RCMP recovered evidence to support their investigation and canvassed the area for security-camera footage, but no additional leads have been identified.

“RCMP officers responded rapidly and leveraged specialised teams, including Police Dog Services and Forensic Identification Services, to thoroughly investigate the incident,” said McDonald. “We’re now asking community members to assist by sharing any information or video that may help investigators.”

Anyone with information who has not already spoken to police is asked to call the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP detachment.

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Real estate sales in the Kootenay-Boundary dropped 26 per cent in January compared to the same time last year.

The Association of Interior Realtors says the 123 recorded sales was also a drop from the 153 units sold in December.

There were 317 new listings recorded in January, which was a 9.7 per cent increase compared to the same month the previous year and also up from December’s 174 new listings.

Overall active listings in the region saw a 0.2 per cent increase compared to January 2025 with 1,184 recorded listings.

“Following a prolonged period of strong performance, the Kootenay market has entered the year at a slower pace,” president Kadin Rainville said in a news release.

“January, which is usually flat, came in below average this year, pointing to a shift toward more measured activity rather than the momentum seen in recent years.”

The benchmark price, which realtors say is a better representation of value compared to the average or median price as it represents a dwelling of typical attributes, saw a 2.5 per cent increase in the Kootenays in the single-family housing category compared to the same month the previous year, coming in at $569,700.

Townhomes saw a 0.2 per cent decrease in benchmark pricing, coming in at $492,300. Condos saw a benchmark price decrease of 1.2 per cent in year-over-year comparison, coming in at $334,100.

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The Prince George Iceman will be looking a little different this year, as winter temperatures have been absent from the city.

This year, the ski route has changed to a 1.6 kilometre loop on artificial snow, the 5 kilometre run going from the Oval to the Canfor Leisure Pool, and the swimming moved to a smaller pool.

Media and Sponsorship Coordinator Sylvia Masich talked about the weather being one of the biggest challenges this year.

“It’s hard, because we’re all a group of volunteers. You put all these plans in place hoping for the best case scenario, and then mother nature decides it’s going to be really warm.”

“It’s hard seeing all that hard work, I don’t want to say go to waste, but not come to fruition, and in a way sometimes scramble to make sure it works.”

Masich added there was a possibility of no swim due to the Aquatic Centre renovations, however, they were able to work with the city to move to the Canfor Leisure Pool, and also change their running route.

The City of Prince George also issued a temporary service disruption during the Iceman event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the notable impacts being:

• One southbound lane and the bike lane closed on Foothills Boulevard between Otway Road and 18^th Avenue.
• All sidewalks along the route closed for racers.
• All traffic signals along the route placed in four-way flash.

The main pool and teach pool at the Canfor Leisure Pool will be closed from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for the swimming portion of the race.

A map of the routes can be found here.

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Two Texada Island residents have been fined for killing a grizzly bear on Texada Island last year. 

Kody Bevan and Seneca Antony appeared in Powell River provincial court on Thursday, Feb. 5, and pleaded guilty to failing to promptly report the wounding or killing of a grizzly bear, a violation under section 75(2) of the Wildlife Act.  

The two were responsible for the death of a tagged grizzly bear in the Van Anda area in July 2025. The bear, nicknamed Tex, had been living on the island for weeks.  

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service began an investigation after being notified that the bear had been shot and possibly wounded.  

Bevan and Antony were charged in September after the investigation concluded.  

Each received a $3,000 fine, with $2,000 from each directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. 

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With the recent warm weather, the District of Invermere is urging extra caution on frozen surfaces.

That includes all lakes, river edges, and any areas with moving water.

Even if the ice looks solid, the recent weather can cause weak spots that are difficult to see.

The District of Invermere does not not check or monitor ice thickness or ice conditions on Lake Windermere.

Anyone going onto the ice must do so at their own risk.

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There is another significant increase in the annual Kootenay unemployment rate.

It was 5.9 per cent last month, compared to 3.8 per cent in January 2025.

According to Statistics Canada, there were about 82,200 residents with jobs in the Kootenay last month, about 300 fewer than the same month last year.

The big jump came in the number of job seekers.

The federal agency says there were about 5,200 people looking for work throughout the Kootenays last month, compared to 3,300 in January 2025.

The total Kootenay work force last month was about 54,500, a drop of about 800 from the year before.

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The eyes of the world are on Italy.

The opening ceremonies (that began at 11 a.m. PT) are featured today (Friday) at the Winter Games.

Team Canada has 207 athletes. There are four athletes either born or raised in the Prince George area that will wear Canadian colors and compete at the Games.

Three-time Olympic medalist in moguls, Mikaël Kingsbury, and two-time Olympic medalist in ski cross, Marielle Thompson, are Canada’s opening ceremony flag bearers.

They are long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly, ski cross racer Gavin Rowell, and snowboard cross racers Meryeta O’Dea, Evan Bichon.

PG-born snowboarder Tess Critchlow withdrew from the winter games due to injury on Wednesday. This would have been her third winter games.

Colby Graham of P.G. is an alternate on the men’s snowboard cross team.

Hiller-Donnelly’s is scheduled to race in the 1000m — on Monday at 8:30 AM Pacific Time as well as the 500m event — slated for February 15th at 8:00 AM local time.

In terms of snowboard cross, Bichon is hitting the slopes bright and early on Thursday (February 12th) at 4:45am Pacific alongside teammates Eliot Grondin and Liam Moffatt.

Bichon, grew up in Mackenzie but attended high school in Prince George.

O’Dine on the other hand, will compete in the women’s snowboard cross events next Friday morning (Feb 13th).

Lastly, Rowell will have to wait the longest out of all the local athletes at the Olympics, the Canadian men’s ski cross team doesn’t compete until February 21st, which begin at 1am Pacific Time.

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Tributes are pouring in following the passing of Prince George mortgage broker Christine Buemann who lost her battle with cancer.

Buemann, who ran her own brokerage in the city located on Central Street leaves behind two sons.

Monique Poole, who worked alongside Christine at the brokerage said Buemann was originally diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer three years ago and was cleared for a short time until it returned.

“About a year later, they found a brain tumour, which confirmed to be the same cancer. It had characteristics of spreading and from that point onward it just continued to spread.”

Poole noted Buemann was the type of person who sought out a deeper connection with people regardless of what they were going through in their lives and was always the one offering a helping hand to those who needed it.

“The way that she spoke to you was that she was genuinely wanted to get to feel where you were in your present time. It wasn’t about the surface conversation – she always asked very penetrating questions – she wanted to go deeper and she wanted a good understanding of how she could help you in any way.”

“Whether it was with your kids or husband, she was just always going deeper than the average person in the average conversation.”

Elisha Flynn, who is a realtor with Century 21 in Prince George says Buemann’s acumen when it came to mortgages was pretty impressive.

“She loved mortgages, she loved the way they were structure as well as her relationship with the clients. She loved the creativity of putting a transaction together and was highly skilled and knowledgeable.”

“It was almost like watching a Maverick where she was a master or a PHD in mortgages. She could speak that knowledge in those networks.”

Michelle Ouellet is one of Buemann’s best friends who looked back on some of their best moments growing up.

“She taught me how to drive a standard. We went to high school and college together, we worked together as she got me my first job at Red Robin. We were at each other’s weddings and then I threw her a baby shower. We were always in each other’s lives.”

Ouellet they could always pick up where they left off if they went quite a while without seeing each other.

“We were friends for so long that we were the type of friends where months could go by and we would pick up right where we left off. We were always both being very busy being mom’s and business owners but I would say towards the end it brought us super close and that is what friendships are about.”

Ouellet and Buemann first became friends while attending Ness Lake Bible Camp when they were around ten years old.

Ouellet characterized Buemann as one of the most thoughtful, generous and loving people she had ever been around.

“It was always about the boys. Her long hard sight was all about her two boys who she loved more than anything.”

“She had such a powerful, positive mindset and that for her, it was about staying positive and fighting for her boys, fighting for the time. Death wasn’t an option for her, she wasn’t willing to accept that.”

The Christine Buemann Mortgage Team confirmed to MyPGNow that the business will keep running as per usual.

The post “It was like watching a Maverick.”: PG real estate community mourns loss of well-known mortgage broker appeared first on My Prince George Now.

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The Citizen of the Year program is giving someone in Elkford a chance to be celebrated by the community. 

The District of Elkford sponsors the Citizen of the Year program, which has council select a citizen from the community to be honoured for their outstanding contributions.

If anybody comes to mind when you think of what an exceptional community member represents, you have until Mar. 15 to nominate them for Elkford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year. 

Nominees must make a positive impact on the community through demonstration of extraordinary leadership and community service, along with meeting the criteria found here.

You can request a nomination form by emailing [email protected] or by visiting the District of Elkford Office at 744 Fording Drive. You can find a printable nomination form here.

All applications must be received before 4:30 p.m. on Mar. 15, 2026.

The post Community is invited to nominate Elkford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is hiring firefighters for a Work Experience Program (WEP).

The WEP will gain firsthand experience working with on-call firefighters in fighting structure, vehicle and wildfires along with responding to medical and highway rescue calls. 

There are four temporary full-time WEP positions running for about six months from May. 4 to Oct. 30, 2026 based out of Jaffray Fire Hall.

The position has a base of 35 hours per week with a wage of $30.00/hour, plus chances for additional hours, learning opportunities along with a benefits package.

There may be chances for deployments with the BC Wildfire service that the RDEK Fire Departments receive in addition to their WEP hours and wage (if WEP firefighters are qualified and available).

Applicants for the position should have a variety of skills that include being physically fit, ability to handle tough training, stay calm in stressful situations, work well with others (volunteers and public), handle sensitive information carefully and have vehicle extrication training.

There are also a number of qualifications and experience necessary for the WEP positions that can be found here.

A description of specific tasks the position will consist of and more information overall can be found at the same link.

After being received, the applications will be reviewed and selected applicants who meet all requirements will be invited to an interview.

The interview panel will include the fire chiefs and Human Resources representatives who will contact the applicants references. Successful applicants will then be notified if they have been chosen and a contract with terms of employment will be offered.

Individuals who are qualified and interested in this opportunity can email a resume and cover letter, with references to the Human Resources Department at [email protected]. 

Applications need to be in before Friday Feb. 27 at 12:30 pm to be considered. More information can be found here.

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Another provincial championship is coming to the northern capital.

Curl BC is hosting the 2026 Stick Curling Championships from February 11th to 15th at the PG Golf and Curling Club.

The championships will feature 24 teams competing in Women’s, Mixed, and Men’s curling categories, representing curling clubs from across the province.

Curl BC will be qualifying one team from each category to attend the 2026 Canadian Stick Curling Association National Championships March 25-29, in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

The Opening Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, February 11th, from 6:00 – 6:30 pm.

The post B.C. Stick Curling Championships to be contested in Prince George next week appeared first on My Prince George Now.

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The City of Greenwood is under a boil-water notice.

The water quality advisory was issued on Thursday and follows routine testing that identified two counts of total coliforms in the city’s water system.

The city said in a statement that the precautionary measure is being issued out of an “abundance of caution” to protect public health.

Residents are asked to take the following steps until further notice:

• Bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing fruits and vegetables or food preparation.

• Alternatively, use a safe water source such as bottled water.

The city said it is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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Stats Canada says it was a stable start to the New Year when it came to employment for Prince George.

53,500 people found themselves holding down a job in the northern capital, an increase of about 17-hundred when compared to 12-months earlier.

The unemployment rate stayed at 6.0% for the second consecutive month.

Labour Division Analyst, Vincent Ferrao told MyPGNow.com the volume of people looking for work also saw a decline.

“For Prince George, the number of people that are unemployed, or another way of saying it, the number of people looking for work – a year ago it was 3,900 and it just trickled down to 3,400 this January.”

In BC, the unemployment rate slipped to 6.1% after it was 6.3 in December – the third-lowest among the provinces trailing Saskatchewan (5.3) and Quebec (5.2).

Canada’s unemployment rate fell to 6.5%, a slight drop from December despite employment edging down by 25-thousand.

Here is a breakdown of all the provinces:

• Quebec 5.2%
• Saskatchewan 5.3%
• British Columbia 6.1%
• Manitoba 6.3%
• Alberta 6.4%
• New Brunswick 6.7%
• Nova Scotia 6.9%
• Ontario 7.3%
• Prince Edward Island 7.6%
• Newfoundland and Labrador 9.2%

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Challenges continue to pile up for Mount Washington because of a lack of snow this season. 

In a social media post, Mount Washington Ski Club said it will not host the High School Provincials or the Teck U14 Provincial Championships this year because of challenges with the snowpack on the mountain. 

“We’d like to recognize the heroic efforts of Mount Washington Alpine Resort in supporting our bid to host and who have been able to keep us on snow and provide opportunities for training throughout this challenging period,” said the club in the post. 

The ski club added it is hopeful it will have another opportunity to host the events in the future to showcase the mountain community. 

BC Alpine said the Teck U14 Provincial Championships will instead take place at Apex Mountain Resort from March 20 to 22. 

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Another trip to the World Baseball Classic is in the cards for Prince George’s Jared Young.

On Thursday, the New York Mets utility player was named to Baseball Canada’s 30-player roster for the tournament, which runs from March 5th to 17th from Japan, Puerto Rico and the United States.

Young played for the Canadians in 2023 who went 2-2 in round robin play, narrowly missing the playoff round. The 30-year-old hit one home run in the tournament against the United States.

Last season with the Mets, the local product suited up in 23 games, registering four home runs and six RBI’s to go along with a .186 batting average.

Canada’s roster includes 14 players who competed in the most recent World Baseball Classic in 2023 including Phillippe Aumont, Owen Caissie, Denzel Clarke, Indigo Diaz, Edouard Julien, Otto Lopez, Bo Naylor, Tyler O’Neill, Cal Quantrill, Jacob Robson, Noah Skirrow, Abraham Toro, Young, and Rob Zastryzny.

Ernie Whitt, will guide the national team in a record sixth World Baseball Classic.

Canada will compete in Pool A, held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with games scheduled against Colombia (March 7), Panama (March 8), Puerto Rico (March 10), and Cuba (March 11).

The top two teams in Pool A will advance to the quarterfinal round in Houston, Texas.

The post PG’s Jared Young cracks Canada’s roster once again for World Baseball Classic appeared first on My Prince George Now.