Blog

Police in Kimberley are asking residents in the East Kootenay to keep an eye out for 19-year-old Sloan Buckley and 21-year-old Isaac Roger-Hill.

Police say they left Calgary on their way to a cabin in Wasa on Thursday at 8 a.m. but have not been heard from since.

They were travelling the north route via Banff to Radium Hot Springs.

Police say they were driving a a blue 2007 Mazda B3000 truck with Alberta plate CTC8386.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact the Kimberley RCMP at 250-427-4811.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Kimberley RCMP ask for public’s help in finding missing Albertans appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Say hello to little Caspian, this weeks Summit Radio Pet of the Week with the BCSPCA in Castlegar!

Caspian was found as a stray and is a little unsure at first, but quickly warms up to you. You’ll see his soft side in no time and he sure loves his hugs and snuggles! He is 2 years old, and would love to find his forever home with you!

His adoption page to learn more is here: https://adopt.spca.bc.ca/pets/784062

The post Caspian is this weeks Pet of the Week! appeared first on My Nelson Now.

This post was originally published on My Nelson Now

A search warrant for a rural property in Malahat has resulted in the recovery of a stolen excavator. 

According to West Shore RCMP, a John Deere excavator was stolen from a construction site on Bear Mountain in Langford on Jun 20 and was recovered on Wednesday (July 23). 

Police say they arrested a 41-year-old man was in possession of the stolen property, and he was later released on an Undertaking. 

Corporal Danny Grieve says taking a piece of equipment of this caliber isn’t easy, and it will be returned.  

“Heavy machinery like this isn’t easy to steal. Thanks to solid police work it has been recovered and will be returned to the rightful owner,” he says.  

The post Stolen excavator recovered in Malahat, West Shore RCMP  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The City of Trail Water Treatment Plant crews will be flushing hydrants, as well as chlorinating the Green Gables Reservoir water system, starting Monday, July 28, 2025 for a period of approximately three weeks.

If you experience discoloured water during the flushing process, run your taps for several minutes until the water clears.

During the chlorinating process, a slight chlorine smell may be detected for up to two weeks, which dissipates with regular water usage. Chlorinating is a necessary technique used to clean and disinfect the City’s reservoirs and water distribution systems. The chlorinated water is safe to drink and not a health hazard.

“Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we complete this important maintenance in your neighbourhood.” said the City of Trail.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Green Gables water reservoir flushing planned for Waneta appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Kootenay Animal Assistance Program Society (KAAP) and Castlegar’s Blue Barn pet store are teaming up to raise funds and awareness on your pet’s care in an effort to control pet populations, as well as find new homes for some furry friends.

President of KAAP, Laurel Mathew, said we’re currently in the thick of kitten season and they need the communities help to meet demand.

“We’re working on some properties where there’s just a cat over a cat explosion problem, so we’re taking in all sorts of animals, and all the funds raised go towards vet bills, medications, food, litter, anything that these poor little critters coming in might need,” said Mathew.

“Despite our years of efforts to educate people to spay and neuter their pets, the population continues to grow, and our resources are always taxed. We’re expecting this garage sale will give us a temporary financial boost to support these programs.”

Mathews said the group is currently working with one property in the valley that they have removed close to 80 cats from over the last 12 months.

“It’s not healthy for all these cats to just continually breed, and they get respiratory conditions and worms, and everything that comes along with just having too many cats.”

The message to pet owners is a simple one.

“Get them neutered,” said Mathews. “Reaching out for help is not embarrassing, we do get grant money to help low-income folks spay and neuter their pets so we’re happy to help out.”

This Saturday, July 26, KAAP is hosting a Garage Sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the parking lot at 1965 6th Avenue, with all proceeds going to KAAP.

“We have a big trailer full of really cool things, everything from toys to an automatic food feeder, anything you could ever possibly imagine you needed for your pet,” said Mathew.

Kootenay Animal Assistance Program Society (KAAP)

KAAP was founded to meet the needs of homeless and disadvantaged pets who might otherwise fall between the cracks in existing services.

KAAP takes on properties where there are many cats living outdoors by capturing, housing, and spaying/neutering them to prevent even more homeless animals. They also offer low[1]income pet owners financial help to spay/neuter their pets.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Blue Barn and KAAP team up for our furry friends appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Cranbrook RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the individual responsible for the theft of over $4,000.00 worth of Milwaukee tools during the early hours of July 20, in the 1200 block of 6^th Street North, Cranbrook.

Surveillance footage has captured an individual in possession of the stolen tools at approximately 02:59 a.m. The suspect was then seen heading toward the industrial area of town.

The Cranbrook RCMP thank the community for their ongoing support.

“The tips generated from a previous release have been followed up on and we encourage residents to continue to report suspicious activity.” said S/Sgt Barry Graham.

Police are now asking businesses in the area of 6^th Street North and the surrounding industrial areas to review their surveillance footage from June 20, specifically the hours just before 02:30 a.m. to approximately 04:00 a.m.

Investigators are particularly interested in any footage that may capture the suspect’s face and direction of travel.

“It’s easy to focus only on video that shows the crime itself”, said Graham.

“But footage showing a suspect in the area before or after an incident can be just as importing in helping us identify them and gather the evidence needed to support criminal charges”.

Anyone with information, surveillance, or dash cam footage is asked to contact the Cranbrook RCMP detachment at 250-489-3471 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

“Please continue to share, stay alert and report anything suspicious.”

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Two-year-old Mavrik’s spirits continue to be high during his fight with cancer, now being nominated Toddler of the Year.

His battle against high-risk neuroblastoma began in late October 2024, but has been receiving an outpour of community support since then.

“One of his Aunts actually nominated him for it, and then the voting kind of just took off right away.” Mavrik’s father Derek Turnbull said.

“I think in two hours he went from 40th to first, and he’s basically held that position ever since.”

Turnbull added that Mavrik has been doing ok and is recovered, coming off of a couple months of chemotherapy, and will have radiation in August.

Those interested can follow Mavrik’s progress on the Mavrik’s Battle With Cancer Facebook page here.

Support can also be done by bringing in empty bottles to any Return-It Depot, and to use the number 250-267-7242 to print and tag the bags.

Those looking to vote can make one for free, which can be found here.

The post PG boy battling cancer up for Toddler of the Year appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Sports by Hartley Friday, July 25th, 2025

(As of 12:05 a.m. All times listed are PDT)

The Prince George Kodiaks play their first road game of the season in the BC Football Conference (BCFC) when they visit the Kamloops Broncos Saturday night at 6:00.

Both teams are 0-1.

The game can be heard on Country 97 radio.

The next home game for the Kodiaks will be on August 16th when they entertain the 0-1 Langley Rams.

More info on the BCFC can be found here.

CFL: (Week 8)

Montreal Alouettes  23  Calgary Stampeders  21

Both the Als and Stamps are 5-2.

The (3-4) BC Lions host the (4-2) Hamilton Tiger-Cats Sunday at 4 PM.

Hamilton is riding a 4-game winning streak.

In the CFL this evening (Friday 6:00 PT): (1-4) Edmonton at (5-1) Saskatchewan.

The CFL schedule are here.

MLB:

Toronto Blue Jays  11  Detroit Tigers  4

The box score is here.

The (61-42) Jays have won six of their last seven since the All-Star break to extend their lead over the second place New York Yankees to 4 1/2 games in the A.L. East.

Toronto continues an 8-game road trip tonight (Friday 4:10 PT) against the
(60-44) Tigers in Detroit in a matchup of division leaders.

The Blue Jays 2025 schedule and results are here.

The MLB schedule and results are here.

The MLB standings are here.

The post Hartley’s Sports Shorts; Friday, July 25th appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Elk Valley RCMP were calling on parents to check their kids after the Southeast 911 dispatch reported nearly 200 prank 911 calls coming from the Sparwood area yesterday, Thursday, July 24.

“Dispatch has advised that it sounds like kids or youth making the calls.” said Elk Valley RCMP.

“If you or your family are aware of anyone in your household doing this, please have them stop immediately as it is a tremendous burden for our already busy dispatchers.”

“If possible, please contact the Elk Valley non-emergency line so officers can educate the youth.”

The post Prank calls are no joke appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

An OCP planning project to update the Rockyview OCP and consolidate it with the Moyie and Area OCP is back on the table.

The project was planned back in 2023 but was put on hold due to staffing changes within the RDEK.

“We have a new Planner on staff and are excited to dive back into the planning process,” said Electoral Area C director Rob Gay.

“When we started the process, we received valuable information through the community engagement and that early input remains valuable. We are now looking to build on that foundation as we work toward completing the plan.”

Gay says there will be a number of engagement opportunities in the coming months including open houses and invitational meetings.

“We are hoping to see strong involvement so that we can build on what we learned early-on in the process and ensure we hear diverse points of view, ideas, and information,” added Gay.

“Engagement opportunities will be held for residents, First Nations, government agencies, and interest-holders from across the OCP area starting in late August and through the fall.”

A draft of the Rockyview OCP is expected to be done by early 2026.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post RDEK relaunches Rockyview OCP process appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Following a public hearing, Cranbrook council approved the removal of a road dedication for a portion of 12th Avenue South so it can be sold.

The owners of 1112 13th Street South approached the city to buy a piece of land that was dedicated roadway but was not used as a road.

A carport had been built on the road dedication prior to the current owners purchasing the property.

City staff say they aren’t concerned about losing the portion since the roadway is already unusually wide.

The value of the portion of land was appraised at $10,000.

Once the sale goes through the money will go into the  Land Sale Reserve Fund.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Road dedication removal approved by Cranbrook council appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Drought levels in the Elk-Flathead Basin region have fallen from Level 3 to Level 0 since last week thanks to recent wet weather.

It’s also a notable drop from June 20 when the region was at Level 5 to start the summer.

The province measures drought on levels zero (normal or wetter-than-normal conditions) to five (extremely dry).

The Creston area also saw a decrease. They are now at Level 3 compared to Level 4 the week prior.

The Kootenay River region which covers Cranbrook, Kimberley and parts of the Columbia Valley is still on Level 3 drought conditions.

While it’s still relatively early into fire season and conditions can change quickly, decreases across the region are a welcome sight.

“We know dry conditions make it easier for lightning strikes and strong winds to start wildfires. Those fires can also burn, spread and combine for longer periods of time in dry conditions,” said BC River Forecast Centre acting director of drought operations Doris Leong.

“One of the first ways we see the impacts of drought is through increased wildfire activity, so it’s important to stay aware of the drought and wildfire conditions throughout the summer.”

The BC River Forecast updates the current drought conditions every Thursday through the summer.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Elk Valley drought levels see significant drop appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Update – 9pm July 24/25

The BC Wildfire Service reports that the wildfire located near Powell River is now out. The fire was spotted at 5:45 pm and an initial attack crew was assigned. The wildfire was declared out at 8:30 pm.

—

A wildfire near Haslam Lake has ignited, and the BC Wildfire Service says it’s human-caused.

According to their website, the fire is 0.009 hectares in size and out of control.

The fire was reported to the Coastal Wildfire Service today (July 24) just after 5:45 pm., and according to their website, no crews have year been dispatched to the area.

There are currently a total of 69 active wildfires in the province, nine of which are out of control, 33 are being held, and 27 are under control.

To date, over 720,000 hectares of land have been burned in BC.

The post UPDATED: Wildfire near Haslam Lake now out, Coastal Wildfire Service appeared first on My Powell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Powell River Now

A wildfire near Haslam Lake has ignited, and the BC Wildfire Service says it’s human-caused.

According to their website, the fire is 0.009 hectares in size and out of control.

The fire was reported to the Coastal Wildfire Service today (July 24) just after 5:45 pm., and according to their website, no crews have year been dispatched to the area.

There are currently a total of 69 active wildfires in the province, nine of which are out of control, 33 are being held, and 27 are under control.

To date, over 720,000 hectares of land have been burned in BC.

The post Out of control wildfire spotted near Haslam Lake, Coastal Wildfire Service appeared first on My Powell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Powell River Now

100 Mile House RCMP are investigating a break and enter that occurred in a remote area in the region.

Police say they received a report on July 18 of a break and enter on a residential property on the 4000 block of Tatton Helena Lake Forest Service Road, but are unsure of when exactly the break in occurred.

“It was determined the residence on the property had been entered by force,” says Sergeant Lamb of the RCMP. “It is not known if anything was taken from inside the residence at this time.”

Police do say that several large equipment and heavy vehicles were stolen from the property.

A white 2007, 17.5 foot Cutter XLE 173 boat was stolen from the residence. A white Polaris 500 ATV, a red Polaris 500 ATV, and a u/k make generator was stolen as well.

Sergeant Lamb says the area is a very rural area, and finding witnesses to the crime has been hard to find.

However, he and Police ask if anyone has seen a white boat that fits the description, make, and size being moved in the last two months, to contact and report it to the RCMP.

The post Boat and ATVs stolen in Break and Enter in 100 Mile House appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

The Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit has now charged a suspect with second-degree murder in connection with an incident in the 7900 block of Cowichan Lake Road.

On Sept. 3, Lake Cowichan RCMP attended a call in the 7900 block of Cowichan Lake Road to check on Tavis Cragg, who was reported missing, and after responding, they found a body they believed to be missing Nanaimo man.

The suspect was taken into custody on July 23, and according to police, has since been released by the court and is to abide by multiple court-ordered conditions.

The post Suspect faces second degree murder charges in homicide investigation, VIIMCU appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

A group on Gabriola Island is concerned regulations prohibiting inoperable electric vehicles from being towed on BC Ferries could be costly to residents. 

In a letter to the British Columbia Ferry Corporation, the Gabriola Transportation Society says it believes BC Ferry polices go beyond those of Transport Canada regulations, which mandate damaged or defective vehicle batteries be removed and transported separately from the vehicle on ferries. 

Transport Canada’s website says while EVs are not more prone to fires than other vehicles, they do require special procedures to fight when fires happen. 

“While we recognize that damaged or malfunctioning lithium batteries may pose a fire hazard, there are many reasons why an EV may need to be towed onto one of your ferries, and most of them have nothing to do with the lithium battery,” reads the letter from the Gabriola Transportation Society. “Some of those issues might be fixable on some of the island communities that you serve, but others may not, especially on the smaller islands. A vehicle with a transmission problem, faulty brakes, or a defective 12-V lead-acid accessory battery represents no significant fire risk on one of your ferries.” 

The letter says residents who need to get their EV off Gabriola are left with no choice except paying for a barge, which is costly – especially if the vehicle has to be transported to the mainland. 

“We ask you to please reconsider this policy, so that it only applies to vehicles that have compromised lithium-ion batteries and that you continue to allow towed EVs on board if a mechanic has certified that the lithium-ion battery is functioning normally,” the letter says. “We also ask that you provide the option to transport towed-EVs with compromised lithium batteries on dangerous goods sailings.” 

The post Gabriola residents concerned about rules prohibiting towing inoperable EVs on ferries  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

After a year and a half of planning, ground has officially been broken on a new outdoor basketball court at Castlegar’s Millennium Park and Ponds. 

The Castlegar Rotary Club first approached city council with the idea for the court in early 2024. 

The city contributed $5,000 through its Community Enhancement Fund, with the remaining costs fundraised by the Rotary Club. 

A post from the city on social media said the 84-foot by 50-foot court will be located between the pickleball and volleyball courts. It will feature a navy-blue acrylic surface, white lines and a 12-foot gold Rotary wheel at centre court. 

The Rotary Club received approval to proceed with the project in April, with several conditions. 

The group was required to work with a qualified professional to assess nearby black cottonwood trees to ensure their preservation.  

A geotechnical review was also required to confirm site conditions, and the group had to ensure compliance with the city’s contractor management system and evaluate fencing options. 

Other requirements included: 

• Court material must be asphalt with an acrylic sports surface coating 

• Consideration for future conversion into a multi-use court 

• A schedule of quantities, including estimated pricing, for accurate budgeting and planning 

• Installation of benches for player comfort 

• Consideration of site lighting, either during initial construction or as a future improvement, to enhance safety and usability 

• A Chance Find Procedure in case of archaeological discoveries during construction 

• An agreement between the Castlegar Rotary Interact Club and the city outlining roles, responsibilities and handover procedures 

Ground was broken July 21. The Rotary Club said it raised more than $115,000 to support the project, along with significant in-kind contributions from individuals and corporate partners. 

The project aligns with goals outlined in the city’s 2023–27 strategic plan, including a commitment to support community groups and enhance quality of life. 

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.

The post Ground breaks on outdoor basketball court at Millennium Park and Ponds appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Recreation fees in Trail are set to increase by three per cent starting in September. 

Council approved the hike at its July 21 meeting. 

The three per cent increase will apply to all facility rentals, admissions, memberships, equipment rentals city-wide, and the Trail Resident program. 

According to a Civic Document, recreation rates have historically gone up by two per cent annually to align with inflation and labour costs. 

However, in 2024 and 2025, labour costs rose by five per cent due to a new collective agreement.  

City staff noted that while inflation has stabilized for many goods and services, the three per cent increase will help the city keep pace with rising labour expenses. 

Staff also reviewed rates at the Trail Aquatic and Leisure Centre (TALC) and found the City’s drop-in fees remain within the provincial average. 

The updated rates are as follows: 

Adult Drop-In (TALC): 

• Increasing from the current rate of $7.45 to $7.60 

TALC Annual Adult Membership: 

• Increasing from $650.45 to $663.45 

Minor Hockey Ice Rental – Prime Time: 

• Increasing from $93.70 to $95.55 

Victoria View Room Rental (1 to 3 hours): 

• Increasing from $201.20 to $205.20 
  

  ---

  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.

The post Trail recreation fees increasing in September appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Prince George’s Crime Severity Index dropped by 14% in 2024 according to Stats Canada.

The index came in at 199.83 last year, down from 232 in 2023.

Spokesperson, Warren Silver explained to MyPGNow.com what type of crimes saw a decrease in our city.

“So, the violent crimes went down five percent and the non-violent crimes went down 18%. And that includes things like sexual assault, which saw a seven percent decrease, robbery saw an eight percent decrease while breaking and entering declined 19%.”

Silver added motor vehicle thefts in Prince George saw a 28% year-over-year decline.

He mentioned the across the board decline we are seeing in the northern capital is consistent with what is happening in other cities.

“Overall, across BC, the crime severity was down. Kelowna was down nine percent, Kamloops 21%, Chilliwack 11%, Abbotsford/Mission 11%, Vancouver 8%, Victoria 11% and Nanaimo 16%.”

Silver noted Stats Canada got away from community comparisons due to the different issues and demographics each city has in Canada.

MyPGNow.com reached out to the RCMP for comment, but declined our request.

The post PG, like many other BC cities, experiences a decline in Crime Severity Index appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Sixteen delegates from Port Hardy’s sister city in Japan were greeted for what the District of Port Hardy calls five memorable days of cultural exchange, friendship, and adventure.  

According to the district, visitors were taken on tours of the RCMP detachment, Port Hardy Airport, and the Fire Hall, and took in a variety of crafts. 

The district says the generous display of hospitality from families around the area also played a huge part in welcoming the delegates while they were in the area.  

“A heartfelt thank you goes out to the local homestay families, whose generosity and hospitality added a deeply personal touch to the experience,” they say. “These families not only hosted the guests but also took them on unforgettable side adventures such as fishing, caving, wildlife viewing, and visits to Alert Bay and Telegraph Cove.” 

The district says they’d also like to extend thanks to the North Island Crisis and Counselling Society and BC Transit for supplying transportation during their stay. 

The post District of Port Hardy hosts delegation from Numata, Japan  appeared first on My Tri-Port Now.

This post was originally published on My Tri-Port Now

Construction work is underway on a new BC Cancer Centre in Kamloops that will provide people in the Cariboo region better access to cancer care closer to home.

In it’s opening year, the BC Government said the Centre is expected to provide approximately 16,500 treatments for up to 1,200 patients saving patients, their families times, stress and the burden of long distance travel during care.

“When people can access care closer to home, we know it leads to better experiences and healthier outcomes,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, “This Centre is a vital step toward ensuring people in the Thompson-Cariboo-Shuswap region receive timely, high quality cancer care, when and where they need it most.”

The new BC Cancer Centre will include radiation therapy planning including a computerized tomography scan (CT) simulator, diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and an outpatient oncology ambulatory care unit, including exam and consult rooms.

Once the Centre opens in 2028 it’s expected to host 7,500 patient radiation consults and follow-up appointments annually.

It will be operated by BC Cancer in partnership with Interior Health and the estimated cost of the project is approximately $386 million.

The post new Kamloops Cancer Centre will benefit Cariboo patients appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

Funding for emergencies is being allotted to municipalities across the region to help keep residents safe and informed if a disaster strikes. 

According to the province, the Cowichan Valley Regional District will be receiving $160,000 for sub-applicants in Duncan, North Cowichan, and Ladysmith to develop their evacuation routes to address high-risk communities. 

Ladysmith-Oceanside MLA Stephanie Higginson says funding for emergency planning is critical in rural communities to help build resiliency in the face of growing climate threats.  

“In rural and coastal communities like ours, having an evacuation route in place offers a sense of relief and peace for residents,” she says. “Continued Community Emergency Preparedness Funding is so important to making our towns and communities more resilient, and I appreciate the CVRD for making this plan a priority for our community.” 

Cowichan Valley MLA Debra Toporowski echoed Higginson’s comments and added each region has specific needs, and this funding will go a long way to addressing unique concerns.  

“The Cowichan Valley is a beautiful place, but we have our own unique risks when it comes to extreme weather,” she says. “This funding will help ensure communities are prepared to evacuate safely if we need to do so.” 

According to the province, since 2017 they’ve invested $369 million in the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund and have supported approximately 2,600 people. 

The post Cowichan Valley gets $160,000 in emergency preparedness funding  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

Nanaimo council has approved a 116-unit affordable housing development on Prideaux Street. 

The Ballenas Housing Society project was on council’s agenda on July 21, seeking a development permit. 

The six-storey building will be at 55, 65, 69 and 73 Prideaux Street and will be run by the housing society as rental housing for families. 

“The subject properties are located in the Old City neighbourhood. The lots will form an irregular shaped lot that fronts Prideaux Street to the east and the Island Rail Corridor to the west,” reads a city staff report. “The lots are relatively flat and contain four existing low-rise apartment buildings, which will be removed to facilitate the proposed development and will form part of a Ballenas Housing Society campus.” 

The report points out the development permit application was received before city council approved changes to downtown parking, which means this site would require no off-street parking spaces. 

There will be a total of 68 parking spaces, along with scooter spaces, long-term bicycle storage, and short-term bicycle racks. 

Council voted to issue the development permit unanimously. 

The post New affordable rentals approved on Prideaux Street  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

Construction is about to get underway as the City of Courtenay plans to transform an 11.8-acre parcel of land into a nature park. 

According to the city, work is expected to start at the end of July and will include resurfacing the existing access path, installing a split-rail fence, building a gravel loop trail, replacing fencing around a historic orchard, and removing invasive plants. 

Mayor Bob Wells says the project is important as it preserves the natural and historical features of the area.  

“This project honours Mr. McPhee’s generous gift and his vision for the land, preserving its natural and historical features while creating a safe, welcoming space,” Wells says. “We’re looking forward to adding McPhee Meadows to our city’s diverse park system.” 

Phase one of the project is expected to be completed by the end of October, and the city says a temporary road closure near the top of third-street can be expected.  

The property was donated to the city in 2011 through Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program by the late Robert McPhee.  

The post City of Courtenay set to start construction of McPhee Meadows appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

The annual South Cariboo Garlic Festival is sprouting even higher this year, according to its organizers.

It may not have been Teresa Wager’s main goal when she took the reins as an organizer for the South Cariboo Garlic Festival, but each year it has been expanding, and she’s saying this year is expected to grow even more.

“This year, we have 179 vendor spaces taken up. We’re at full capacity,” says Wager. “We still have a huge waiting list of vendors trying to get in right now. But I have measured and measured, and I think we’re completely maxed out.”

Now in her third year as one of the organizers for the South Cariboo Garlic Festival, Wager and her team have grown the festival each year. Last year, the Festival weekend hit a new attendance record of 7,400 people. This year, Wager is expecting to reach around 8,000 [weather permitting].

The attendance and number of vendors are not the only additions to 2025’s Festival. Pretty much everything that has been well-received over the last few years has been expanded on for 2025.

There are more bouncy castles, and they have expanded to have their own designated area.

After seeing long line-ups at food trucks last year, there are going to be 13 food trucks, all with garlic themes, on the grounds. With over 40 different types of garlic bulbs, spices, rubs, and food to choose from. Wager says this year there is even garlic ice cream and garlic cider.

The South Cariboo Idol winners will be performing live on both days of the festival, too.

“I want people from anywhere and everywhere to come and stay here all day and enjoy the day. Start in the morning, and enjoy the festivities.”

Making its return from its inaugural year last year is the Roughneck Zone, which Wager says “was incredible and loved” by those who attended. The chainsaw carvings and art will also be back.

Wager and her team of over a hundred volunteers are excited for what this year’s Festival can bring to the South Cariboo.

“ You know, it wasn’t my goal to grow it. I wanted to kind of keep it the same, but we had so many exciting new vendors that came forward that I just couldn’t pass up on them. I just thought ‘people should get to see that’… I’m so grateful that they applied to the festival, we have so many artistic and amazing artists and growers, and farmers in this community, and it’s such a showcase for them.”

The South Cariboo Garlic Festival will be taking place on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24.

The post South Cariboo Garlic Festival Still Yielding Bigger Harvests For This Year appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

A Notice of Motion will be brought to Prince George City Council on Monday for Administration to coordinate and facilitate a Business and Retail Crime Response Forum.

It said Council has received consistent and increasing concerns regarding property crime, theft, vandalism, and safety within business and retail leader’s operations.

The motion, created by Councillors Kyle Sampson and Time Bennett, states the forum would be to make sure the City is doing what it can to support a safer business environment, while staying in its lane.

It added “by creating a place for dialogue and information-sharing between local retailers, RCMP, and other organizations, we can strengthen coordination and ensure everyone is better equipped to tackle this nationwide challenge.”

The motion also recommends Administration to report back to Council with a summary of outcomes and next steps identified by participants.

A request would be made for RCMP participation, and invite the business and retail community, Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Prince George, and the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Council also had interest in taking part in store tours to better understand current challenges on the ground level.

More information and the full meeting agenda can be found here.

The post PG Councillors looking to create business and retail forum focused on crime appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

A forestry partnership between the province and the Lake Babine Nation was announced today (Thursday) in Burns Lake.

According to the province, this will increase the forest tenure held by the First Nation by more than 2,000 per cent and includes a tenure transfer from West Fraser.

“This is real on-the-ground collaboration that gets things done for Lake Babine Nation, boosts the local economy and delivers for people across B.C.,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests.

“It’s a powerful partnership – one that secures a steady fibre supply for West Fraser and helps produce world-class, made-in-B.C. wood products.”

The agreement sees the First Nation’s Woodland License grow from about 5,600 hectares to more than 126,000 of their territory.

Included in the licence is northeast of Smithers, near the Lake Babine Nation communities of Fort Babine (Wit’at) and Old Fort around the northern half of Lake Babine.

“As stewards of our lands since time immemorial and still today, Lake Babine Nation has forever recognized the deep responsibility we hold in ensuring our forests are managed with ecological respect and generational sustainability,” said Chief Wilf Adam, Lake Babine Nation.

“I want to congratulate the Lake Babine Nation on what we have been able to build together,” said Sean McLaren, president and CEO, West Fraser.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the leadership and the support of government.”

In 2021, the Province set a goal of 20% of the allowable annual cut being held by First Nations.

The post Lake Babine Nation sees growth in woodland license area appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

A Chemainus man has died after his Harley-Davidson motorcycle collided with a tractor-trailer north of Quesnel.  

According to BC Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 12-30 this morning on Highway 97 near Naver Creek Road. 

They say a 38-year-old truck driver, from Aldergrove, collided with the 42-year-old biker, and suspect alcohol is a factor in the crash. 

Constable Michael McLaughlin says they have the driver of the truck in custody, and any information provided is important to the investigation.  

“Police need your help locating more witnesses to this collision, and dash-camera footage would be helpful,” he says. “The driving behaviour leading up to the collision is very important, and there may even be witnesses who saw concerning behaviour before the crash.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the B-C Highway Patrol at 250-992-9211. 

The post Motorcycle accident near Quesnel claims the life of Chemainus man  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

Nelson’s yard fuel pickup program is set to return July 31 – and it’s not too late to register.  

The Nelson FireSmart initiative helps residents reduce the risk of wildfires by collecting coniferous trees, branches, and woody debris from their properties.  

Pre-registration is mandatory. Residents must also receive confirmation that they made the list or their piles will not be picked up.

Registration for the upcoming pickup is still open – but space is limited. 

To register, email [email protected] with your address and a brief note on what you’d like to be put out for chipping.  

Pile prep guidelines:  

• Stack small coniferous trees and branches with the butt ends facing the street.  

• Place your pile at the very front of your property (do not block sidewalks).  

• Only natural coniferous and/or dead woody branches, trees, and sticks.  

Lumber, painted wood, garden waste, grass, loose or bagged leaves, trees over 15 cm in diameter, or dirty/rocky material are not permitted. Piles with any prohibited items will not be picked up.  

More pickup dates will be announced throughout the season, however, space is limited each round. Early registration is strongly encouraged.  

The City says residents can also request to be placed on the waitlist if they miss this one. 

You can find more information here. 

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyNelsonNow News Alerts.

The post Registration still open for July 31 yard fuel pickup appeared first on My Nelson Now.

This post was originally published on My Nelson Now

Residents in the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District felt the heat over the past 10 days after temperatures jumped to near 30 degrees.

Environment Canada Meteorologist Matt Loney says this was caused by an upper ridge that affected northern B.C.

“The northwest part of B.C. was one of the warmer spots which is a bit unusual in the province consistently over the past week or so,” he added.

The ridge also saw other parts of the province rise in temperature but for a shorter period of time.

In those 10 days, the warmest temperatures were on July 15th and 20th with a high of 29 degrees.

No daytime high temperatures were broken in that time but July 22nd saw a new warmest low temperature at 15 degrees.

The previous record was 14.4 degrees set in 2002.

An extreme heat warning also wasn’t issued in that time but there were a couple of days that retrospectively fit the criteria.

“The overnight low was 13.3 on the 21st and 15 on the 22nd so you could argue a heat warning was missed on those occasions because the criteria would have been met as a marginal case,” said Loney.

Lows have to be above 13 degrees in a 48 hour period along with highs above 28 degrees is required for an extreme heat warning.

Temperatures near 20 degrees are expected over the next few days with slightly warmer temperatures expected next week.

A full forecast for the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District can be found on Environment Canada’s website.

The post Near 30 degree weather swept across the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

A lost hiker near Nanton Lake has been found safe after he left the trail into a swampy area. 

According to Powell River Search and Rescue (SAR), the hiker was found just before nightfall, and thanks to the quick thinking of the rescue team and the hiker, the rescue was completed by 2:30 p.m. on July 20. 

They say the hiker became lost when his phone ran out of battery and left him unable to remember which direction he was headed. 

“He got disorientated, and was not able to retrace his steps,” they say. “Realizing he had a couple of hours of daylight left and that he (the hiker) wasn’t equipped to spend the night in the woods, he sent an SOS with his InReach.” 

They add, the hiker made a lot of smart choices when he realized he was lost, and that led to his quick rescue.  

“The hiker made the right decision to call for help when there was still daylight,” they say. “He also didn’t leave his location after sending the SOS, which immensely facilitated the rescue process.” 

SAR says, anyone who intends to hike off any trails should make sure they’re prepared for the unexpected and plan accordingly. 

The post Quick thinking aids in rescue of lost hiker, Powell River Search and Rescue  appeared first on My Powell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Powell River Now

The North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are asking for the public’s help as they continue investigating reports of a man attempting to grab children during the 39 Days of July Festival in Duncan.

The incident happened on June 30th at approximately 12:40 p.m., near the 100 block of Canada Avenue. Officers responded quickly to the scene and arrested a suspect shortly after arriving.

Police have since seen social media posts suggesting there may be additional victims. Investigators are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or had contact with the suspect to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522. The investigation remains ongoing.

The post RCMP seek witnesses following child-grabbing incident at Duncan festival appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

A motorcycle rider is dead, and a tractor-trailer driver has been arrested following an early-morning crash south of Hixon along Highway 97 according to the BC Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred at about 12:34 am when a black Kenworth tractor-trailer collided with a black Harley Davidson motorcycle near Naver Creek Road.

Police say the crash killed a 42-year-old man from Chemainus (Vancouver Island) while a 38-year-old Aldergrove man was taken into custody for impaired operation of a motor vehicle.

“Police need your help locating more witnesses to this collision, and dash-camera video would be helpful,” said Corporal Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol.

“The driving behaviour leading up the collision is very important, and there may even be witnesses who saw concerning behaviour hours before the crash.”

Highway 97 was closed for several hours but has since re-opened to traffic.

Anyone who witnessed concerning behaviour leading up the collision, the black Kenworth tractor-trailer and the black Harley Davidson moments before the crash, or the collision itself, is asked to call BC Highway Patrol – Quesnel at 250-992-9211.

The post Aldergrove man charged with impaired driving following fatal crash on Highway 97 appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The Sunshine Coast Regional District has implemented stage 2 water restrictions to help conserve water and ensure adequate water supply during the summer.  

According to the district, regulations are in place for the Chapman area, South Pender Harbour, and Eastbourne water systems, and anyone in that area isn’t permitted to water their lawn with a sprinkler, hose, hand water, or micro-spray.  

The district says anyone caught violating the watering restrictions will face a $300 penalty. 

Restrictions are put in place starting on May 1 to meet the large seasonal demand increase.

The post Sunshine Coast Regional District  moves to Stage 2 water restrictions  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

45-year-old Robert Nicholas has been charged in relation to a fire at the temporary overnight shelter area in Smithers on Saturday.

According to Smithers RCMP, he was charged with arson causing bodily harm following approval from the BC Prosecution Service.

“This investigation involved a coordinated effort between our police officers, fire officials, and Crown counsel,” said Acting Detachment Commander Sgt. Ryan Law.

“This incident had significant impacts on an already vulnerable population. We recognize the serious nature of this offence and thank our partners and community members who assisted in the investigation.”

No further details will be released.

The post Charges laid in relation to arson incident in Smithers appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

Affordable rental housing across the Kootenays will benefit from more than $5.8 million in clean energy upgrades to 69 buildings comprising of 1,097 units, thanks to the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and other additional funding sources.

The initiative will help non-profit housing providers access energy assessments, plan capital upgrades, navigate rebate programs, and complete retrofits or install solar panels.

“Non-profit housing providers across the Basin are doing vital work to keep homes affordable and sustainable for residents,” said Ulli Mueller, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust.

“We’re thrilled to support their efforts by helping them access upgrades and clean energy solutions that improve resident comfort, reduce operating costs, and increase climate resilience.”

Improvements such as heat pumps, insulation, lighting and air sealing enhance energy efficiency, will lower emissions and improve overall comfort for residents.

Operated by the Arrowtarian Senior Citizens Society, the Rotary Villa Complex includes five phases of housing, with 52 affordable units for seniors. All units are undergoing energy retrofits, including the installation of heat pumps and upgraded domestic hot water systems.

“Our partnership with Columbia Basin Trust has enabled us to install or upgrade heat pumps, hot water tanks, HVAC systems, LED lighting and solar panels across all five phases over the past three years,” said Kees van der Pol, President of the Arrowtarian Senior Citizens Society.

“These upgrades provide financial benefits and support environmental sustainability.”

Funding projects in the West Kootenay, totalling over $2.7 million, include:

• Castlegar Villa Society: $184,030 for heating and cooling upgrades
• Beaver Valley Manor Society: $9,600 for common area heat pump
• Arrowtarian Senior Citizen Society: $331,670 for solar, heating and cooling upgrades and hot water tank
• Halcyon Assisted Living Society: $268,565 for ventilation and hot water tank upgrades
• Nelson CARES Society: $236,905 for Solar, LED lighting and hot water tank upgrades
• Nelson Kootenay Seniors Projects Society: $12,035 for solar
• The Links Housing Cooperative: $292,925 for door and window replacement
• Canadian Mental Health Association- Kootenays (Nelson): $65,090 for LED lighting and hot water tank upgrades
• Halcyon Assisted Living Society: $129,680 for LED lighting, ventilation, insulation and heat pumps
• Bluebell Manor Society: $67,810 for solar, heat pump and LED lighting
• Golden City Manor: $79,570 for a heat pump
• Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society- Rossland: $35,930 for LED lighting and heat pump
• Salmo and Area Supporting Housing Society: $185,700 for solar and heating system upgrades
• Salmo Seniors Villa Society: $179,200 for LED lighting, window and door replacement
• Trail elderly Citizen Housing Society: $275,055 for solar, heat pump and ventilation
• Generation to Generation Society: $38,710 for LED lighting, insulation and heating valves
• Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society- Trail: $33,710 for heating and cooling upgrades, LED lighting and heat pumps and window replacement
• Canadian Mental Health Association- Kootenays (Trail): $179,270 for heating and cooling upgrades
• Trail & District Senior Citizens’ Villa Society: $12,075 for window weatherstripping
• Slocan Valley Seniors Housing Society: $108,020 for solar, ventilation, heating, insulation and a mini heat pump

You can find more information here.

The post $5.8 million in energy upgrades for affordable housing in the Kootenays appeared first on My Grand Forks Now.

This post was originally published on My Grand Forks Now

Members of the Quesnel Search and Rescue team proved once again that they are always ready to answer the call.

SARS Manager, Director, Bob Holowenko said they had an opportunity to participate in the Billy Barker Days Parade Saturday morning (July 19) and while they were in the process of lining up to show off our team, we ended up getting a call out.

“We got early notice from BC Parks Rangers that they had somebody in the Park (Bowron Lake Chain) who was showing some very significant signs of illness and they requested that we respond.” Holowenko said,

“In order to respond we had to get the official request through Emergency Management BC. Once we were able to get that our team finished our demobilization from the Parade which happened before we got the official good to go message. As soon as we had that we began preparing to head out to the Bowron.”

Holowenko said they established an incident command post out in Wells and from there we fly two of our medics into this location in the Bowron Lake Chain, picked up the gentleman who was experiencing some problem and brought him back to our staging area.

“We completed an on scene assessment with our higher level medics. It was then decided that we were going to transport him to Prince George Airport to meet with BC Emergency Health Services paramedic in order to give him a higher level of care.”

He noted the time from Quesnel to the landing area is about one hour which is roughly about the amount of time it takes for a helicopter to lift off from Prince George, do all their pre-flight, and then land at the location we used as a staging area.

“We sent our teams out as soon as we were able to. The helicopter was there just moments behind them. From there it’s about a 20 to 25 minute flight from the landing zone into where we extract the gentleman from the Bowron Lake Chain Park.”

Holowenko added they have very well trained Park Rangers and Park Operators, they were the first ones on scene.

“They did the initial assessment, they provided the initial communication and it was actually BC Parks who gave us the heads up that we may need to go out to Bowron Lake and pickup someone who is showing signs of cardiac problems. I can’t say enough good things about how BC Parks handled this situation, both their in-park representatives as well as their coordinators who are outside the Park,” Holowenko said.

Holowenko thanks the people from the BC Emergency Health Services Dispatch Centre, to the paramedics at the PG Airport, and to Yellowhead Helicopters, who was our contractor of the day and were able to source a helicopter as well as an available pilot on what is one of their busiest weekends.

– story done by Pat Matthews, My Cariboo Now staff

The post Quesnel Search & Rescue called out to Bowron Lake Chain appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Update 8:25 AM

The North District RCMP has confirmed one person has died following a motor vehicle incident along Highway 97, south of Hixon.

Police are on scene near Meadow Creek Road near Dunkley Lumber as the crash occurred early this morning (Thursday) just after midnight.

The investigation is ongoing.

Drive BC reported that Highway 97 in that area was closed for a few hours, but has since re-opened.

CLEAR #BCHwy97 #HixonBC #Quesnel https://t.co/xtTUj4LCmS

— DriveBC (@DriveBC) July 24, 2025

Original Story 8:10 AM

There was a major vehicle incident this morning (Thursday) around 1:30 a few kilometres south of Hixon.

According to a person on the scene, it appears to have happened by Dunkley Lumber and involved a motorcycle.

Drive BC reported that Highway 97 in that area was closed for a few hours, however, unconfirmed reports suggest the highway has since re-opened.

The post Update: Highway 97 crash between Quesnel and Hixon claims a life appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Update 8:25 AM

The North District RCMP has confirmed one person has died following a motor vehicle incident along Highway 97.

Police are on scene near Meadow Creek Road as the crash occurred just after midnight.

There are no further details at this time however more information may be released as it becomes available.

The investigation is in its early stages.

Drive BC reported that Highway 97 in that area was closed for a few hours, however, unconfirmed reports suggest the highway has since re-opened.

Original Story 8:10 AM

There was a major vehicle incident this morning (Thursday) around 1:30 a few kilometres south of Hixon.

According to a person on the scene, it appears to have happened by Dunkley Lumber and involved a motorcycle.

Drive BC reported that Highway 97 in that area was closed for a few hours, however, unconfirmed reports suggest the highway has since re-opened.

The post Highway 97 crash between Quesnel and Hixon claims a life appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

There was a major vehicle incident this morning (Thursday) around 1:30 a few kilometres just south of Hixon at Naver Creek Road.

Drive BC has reported that Highway 97 was closed for several hours.

Reports say the highway has re-opened in both directions.

The post Highway 97 re-opens after early morning crash between Quesnel and Hixon appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

A pet dog has had a lucky escape after being pulled from an RV fire in Cranbrook on Wednesday afternoon, July 23.

Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services responded to a report of a trailer fire with two engines and two support vehicles to find smoke coming from the fifth-wheel, as neighbours attempted to actively control the blaze using garden hoses and fire extinguishers.

Crews quickly confirmed that all occupants were accounted for but were told that a dog was still believed to be inside. Firefighters made entry to locate the source of the fire and began a simultaneous search.

The missing dog, Bronson, was found and removed from the trailer by firefighters and treated at the scene.

Fortunately, BC SPCA Animal Protection Officer Cst. Victor happened to be nearby when the fire started and played a key role in supporting both Bronson and his owner.

For more than a decade, Cranbrook firefighters have carried pet-specific oxygen masks donated by One in the Family Pet Care, which were once again put to good use.

Bronson was given oxygen and closely monitored before being transported by Cst. Victor to a local veterinary hospital for further care.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Animal Protection Officer Cst. Victor and the BC SPCA,” said Fire Chief Scott Driver.

“Having him at the scene made a huge difference — not only was he hands-on in helping treat Bronson, but he also showed a great deal of care and compassion to the owner of the trailer during a really difficult moment. His support reminded us how much stronger our response can be when we work together across agencies.”

Bronson is currently doing well and the fire is under investigation.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Dog has lucky escape from RV fire in Cranbrook appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

A 61-year-old Trail woman has fallen victim to an elaborate online cryptocurrency fraud.

The woman joined a cryptocurrency trading platform website after seeing an advertisement on social media. She began making incremental investments at the recommendation of her online ‘advisor’ who promised ‘fabulous’ returns on her initial investment.

The woman eventually provided access to her bank account to her advisor and encouraged to invest more and more by the advisor.

The woman was eventually asked to pay a $10,000 ‘crypto tax’ on her investment earnings.

After the tax was paid, the woman became suspicious that she was being defrauded as she was not able to access any of her alleged monetary gains. The woman believed she invested and lost up to $37,000 to the scam.

The woman took steps to secure her account and stop any further bank withdrawals, however, the money is not recoverable.

“Investing in cryptocurrency can carry an extremely high risk of losing your invested funds. This does not include the risk of being defrauded via fake advisors and cryptocurrency websites. Anyone can set up a fake website that appears legitimate but the sole purpose is to steal your money. Remember, no one can or should promise you large returns on your investments nor should they be allowed access to your bank accounts. Investors are recommend to use trusted institutions and accredited investment advisors with proven money management track records to better protect your money,” said Sgt. Mike Wicentowich.

For more information on crypto currency frauds and scams please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Woman caught in crypto scam appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

The Glade and Harrop ferries will be out of action for maintenance work overnight tonight, July 24.

Glade Ferry will stop action from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m. while the Harrop Ferry will cease from 11:45 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Please check the Drive BC website for further details.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyNelsonNowNews Alerts.

The post Harrop and Glade ferries out of service overnight appeared first on My Nelson Now.

This post was originally published on My Nelson Now

Forest Crowne residents in Kimberley can expect a water shutoff next week for roughly 24 hours.

Water will be shutoff on Tuesday, July 29, and come back on sometime on Wednesday, July 30.

During the shutdown, there will be no tap water available for drinking, cooking, or cleaning.

Residents are asked to plan ahead by storing enough water for household needs.

Water may be discolored once back on. It can be fixed by running the cold water tap until it runs clear.

A second outage is planned for late August but the dates have not been confirmed.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Water shutoff coming for Forest Crowne area appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Cedar Avenue in Fernie will be closed from Bossio Road to Highway 3 starting Thursday, July 24.

The closure is due to the ongoing roads rehabilitation project.

Work is expected to last until July 31 and another closure will take place from Aug. 5-8.

Vehicle traffic will be detoured through West Fernie and along Burma Road.

Pedestrian traffic will be able to use the Park Trail from Hwy 3 to Bossio Road.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Road closure to impact Cedar Avenue traffic appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue have recovered an injured hiker in Bugaboo Provincial Park.

The hiker had fallen near the metal ladder on the approach to the Conrad Kain Hut.

A ground team responded and conducted a long line rescue with the help of Golden Search and Rescue.

The hiker was transported to the hospital.

CVSAR search manager Nancy Loraas says it’s always important to have proper communication devices.

“From a Search and Rescue point of view, having someone in your party who has some kind of communication device like an inReach, SPOT or a cell phone with satellite communication ability,” said Loraas.

“That gives us a great head start to try finding you if you need help.”

The Columbia Valley Search and Rescue says hiking in Bugaboo Provincial Park is hazardous at anytime but especially now with the wet weather the area has seen.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Injured hiker rescued in Bugaboos appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

The Elk Valley Family Society has unveiled the design of the housing project being built on the site of the old Fernie firehall.

The housing complex will feature 44-units with mix of studio, one and two-bedroom apartments.

The bottom of the building will be used for commercial use with 3,000 square feet of office space.

Some of that will be used by the Elk Valley Family Society.

A minimum of 30 per cent of the units will have affordable below market rents.

“We see people struggling to find accommodation in Fernie, one that they could afford, and two, that is even available,” said Mayor Nic Milligan.

“It’s having a big impact on local businesses and residents in the community.”

Demolition to the old building has taken place with construction now underway.

The society is hoping to have work completed by January 2027.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Elk Valley Family Society unveils design for new housing complex appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Sports by Hartley Thursday, July 24th, 2025

(As of 12:05 a.m. All times listed are PDT)

Judo:

A Prince George Judo athlete fell just short of the podium at the Hawaii Summer Judo National Championships in Honolulu.

Jason Zazelenchuk of Northern Capital Judo Club finished fifth in Senior Men +200lbs and seventh in Senior Men Open Division, which consisted of 21 competitors.

MLB:

Toronto Blue Jays  8  New York Yankees  4

The box score is here.

The (60-42) Jays begin an 8-game road trip today (Thursday 3:40 PM PT) against the
(60-43) Tigers in Detroit.

This is a match-up of division leaders with Toronto 4 games ahead of the Yankees in the A.L. East and Detroit 8 games in front of Cleveland in the A.L. Central.

The Blue Jays 2025 schedule and results are here.

The MLB schedule and results are here.

The MLB standings are here.

CFL:

The 8th week of the CFL season begins this evening (Thursday 6:00 PT) with the (4-2) Montreal Alouettes at the (5-1) Calgary Stampeders.

The (3-4) BC Lions host the (4-2) Hamilton Tiger-Cats Sunday at 4 PM.

Hamilton is riding a 4-game winning streak.

The CFL schedule are here.

BC Football Conference:

The Prince George Kodiaks visit the Kamloops Broncos Saturday night at 6:00 in the BC Football Conference (BCFC).

Both teams are 0-1.

The next home game for the Kodiaks will be on August 16th when they entertain the 0-1 Langley Rams.

More info on the BCFC can be found here.

The post Hartley’s Sports Shorts; Thursday, July 24th appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Island Health is alerting Chemainus residents that a feral kitten in the area has tested positive for rabies.

The free-roaming kitten was found on the roadside in the 8000 block of Chemainus Road on July 9, and began exhibiting symptoms of rabies on July 12.

A rabies test was done and it was confirmed on July 21 the kitten was infected.

Island Health says all individuals at risk of exposure after July 9 have been located and are receiving follow-up care.

However, the kitten could have transmitted the infection to someone after July 2.

The risk to the public is extremely low, but Island Health asks anyone who had direct contact with a kitten in the area between July 2 and July 9 to contact the Communicable Disease Program at 250-519-3575 for assessment.

The kitten was believed to be living in a tree on or near a rural property in the 8000 block of Chemainus Road.

Island Health says the likelihood that people not already identified came into contact with the kitten is very low, but out of an abundance of caution is notifying the community.

The post Island Health says feral kitten in Chemainus area tested for rabies appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

There is optimism the fish die-off of two years ago in the Cowichan River will not be repeated this summer, despite the challenging conditions.

Tom Rutherford of the Cowichan Watershed Board says following the loss of more than one-hundred thousand fish in the summer of 2023, a comprehensive monitoring system was created for the river.

Rutherford says six water quality monitoring stations were installed, “from the top end right down to the bottom end,” to continuously record information about conditions such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH levels in the river.

He says it’s like an early warning system to let them know if dangerous conditions are developing anywhere in the river and help them determine what steps should be taken.

Rutherford says another difference this year was the decision to reduce the flow of water into the river earlier, which has resulted in better conditions being maintained.

“We’ve got more flow now, but still not as much as we’d like, for sure, but more now then we had in 2023, so that’s one of the things we can actually control a little bit and manipulate, and to be clear there are no good choices, it is trying to pick the lesser of the evils.”

As the dry weather continues, the level of Cowichan Lake continues to fall and there is concern the current flow of 5.5 cubic metres per second of water through the weir into the Cowichan River may have to be reduced to 4.5 CMS in August.

The post Low water level creates challenges but Cowichan River in better shape than 2023 appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The Save-Our-Streets coalition is taking the latest crime severity index numbers from Stats Canada with a grain of salt.

The group noted while BC’s saw an 11% drop in this category, its lowest level in six years – shoplifting has spiked by 66% over the last decade, pushing many business owners to their wits end.

Co-founder, Jess Ketchum told Vista Radio retail theft is far from a Vancouver-based problem.

“It is Prince George, it is Quesnel, Williams Lake and its in the Kootenays, Kamloops as well as all over the Island. It’s a matter of this crime increasing over a ten-year period.”

He added retail theft often escalates to violence these days, which puts workers in a tough spot.

“It’s one thing to be impacted by somebody coming in to a place of business and stealing, but it’s an entirely different situation when more and more seem to be coming in with a very threatening manor.”

Ketchum noted the issue isn’t so much about what is being reported, it’s what’s not being publicized that is the group’s biggest worry.

“It’s not that they are inaccurate for what they are reporting but it’s what they are not reporting that is the problem. We have seen study after study that demonstrates just how pervasive non-reporting has become.”

“So many of the crimes nowadays go unreported because either people have lost faith in the justice system to do anything or they just don’t have the time to be making these claims while running their businesses.”

In 2023, London Drugs President and COO Clint Mahlman, who is also part of Save Our Streets, noted their Parkwood Place location in Prince George had one of the highest crime rates ranking in the top five for loss.

The post BC sees 66% spike in shoplifting in last decade: Save Our Streets appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Members of the Quesnel Search and Rescue team proved once again that they are always ready to answer the call.

SARS Manager, Director, Bob Holowenko said they had an opportunity to participate in the Billy Barker Days Parade Saturday morning (July 19) and while they were in the process of lining up to show off our team, we ended up getting a call out.

“We got early notice from BC Parks Rangers that they had somebody in the Park (Bowron Lake Chain) who was showing some very significant signs of illness and they requested that we respond.” Holowenko said, “In order to respond we had to get the official request through Emergency Management BC. Once we were able to get that our team finished our demobilization from the Parade which happened before we got the official good to go message. As soon as we had that we began preparing to head out to the Bowron.”

Holowenko said they established an incident command post out in Wells and from there we fly two of our medics into this location in the Bowron Lake Chain, picked up the gentleman who was experiencing some problem and brought him back to our staging area.

“We completed an on scene assessment with our higher level medics. It was then decided that we were going to transport him to Prince George Airport to meet with BC Emergency Health Services paramedic in order to give him a higher level of care.”

He noted the time from Quesnel to the landing area is about one hour which is roughly about the amount of time it takes for a helicopter to lift off from Prince George, do all their pre-flight, and then land at the location we used as a staging area.

“We sent our teams out as soon as we were able to. The helicopter was there just moments behind them. From there it’s about a 20 to 25 minute flight from the landing zone into where we extract the gentleman from the Bowron Lake Chain Park.”

Holowenko said they have very well trained Park Rangers and Park Operators, they were the first ones on scene.

“They did the initial assessment, they provided the initial communication and it was actually BC Parks who gave us the heads up that we may need to go out to Bowron Lake and pickup someone who is showing signs of cardiac problems. I can’t say enough good things about how BC Parks handled this situation, both their in-park representatives as well as their coordinators who are outside the Park,” Holowenko said.

Holowenko thanks the people from the BC Emergency Health Services Dispatch Centre, to the paramedics at the PG Airport, and to Yellowhead Helicopters, who was our contractor of the day and were able to source a helicopter as well as an available pilot on what is one of their busiest weekends.

The post Quesnel Search & Rescue Were Called Out To The Bowron Lake Chain appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

The British Columbia Northern Exhibition (BCNE) will have a Renaissance Faire this weekend in Prince George.

Originally a Sunday market, the organization wanted to give it a theme, which General Manager Sylvie Lazell said exploded to a two day event.

“We have a battle arena going all weekend with people dressed up doing their battles from pool noodles, all the way up to full-body armour and swords” said Lazell.

“We’ve got a petting zoo on Saturday, and a costume contest on Sunday.”

Lazell added the event will have over 50 vendors and a line up of food trucks, with a petting zoo on Saturday and costume contest on Sunday.

Admission for the Renaissance Faire is $2, with 16 and under free, and will go from noon until 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday at the Exhibition Place Ag Arena.

More information can be found on BCNE’s website here, or on its Facebook page.

The post British Columbia Northern Exhibition bringing a new event to Prince George this weekend appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Parking at the Trail Regional Airport just became more expensive. 

City council approved a significant increase in airport parking fees on Monday. 

Instead of the current rate of $3 per day or $15 per week, users will now be charged $5 per day or $30 per week to park their vehicles.

This represents a 66.7 per cent increase in daily parking, and a 100 per cent increase in weekly parking. 

City staff noted the new rates will significantly boost airport revenue and better align with parking fees at similar airports, including the West Kootenay Regional Airport, which charges $8 per day or $50 per week. 

The city added that the increase will help the airport to keep pace with rising labour costs, utilities, and the price of goods and services, while remaining competitive with other airports. 

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Trail Regional Airport hikes parking fees appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing very strong wind gusts, up to nickel size hail and heavy rain for the Prince George-area.

A severe thunderstorm is located just northwest of Firth Lake east of Highway 97 and is moving eastward at 20 km/h.

The thunderstorm will not affect the city of Prince George.

Damage to roofs, fences, soft shelters or trees is likely.

Heavy rain may cause flash flooding and significant reductions to visibility.

Large hail may cause significant damage and injury.

The post Outlying areas near PG under severe thunderstorm warning appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Trail’s La Nina homeless shelter on Riverside Avenue has received the green light from council to operate for another three years. 

Council voted 5–2 in favour of renewing BC Housing’s Temporary Use Permit (TUP) request on Monday, allowing the shelter – which opened in September 2024 under a one-year TUP – to continue operating until September 2028. 

The 25-bed shelter is operated by the Trail Association for Community Living (TACL) and offers a range of services in addition to overnight housing, including mental health supports, meals, laundry, washroom facilities, and more. 

A year in review 

B.C. Housing representatives Tyler Baker and Nanette Drobot attended Monday’s meeting to provide an update on the shelter’s outcomes over the past year. 

According to B.C. Housing, the shelter has supported 91 guests between September 2024 and now. Of those, 13 secured permanent housing, five entered substance use treatment, and three received referrals for treatment. 

The shelter has seen an 88 per cent overnight occupancy rate since opening, which Baker noted is in line with similar shelters across the province. 

Crime and safety 

Councillor Terry Martin presented data from local emergency services, comparing call volumes at the former Bay Avenue shelter with those at the new Riverside Avenue location. 

During the Bay Avenue era, Martin noted a steep increase in calls to the fire department – from 10 in 2020 to over 100 in 2023. 

“It was a bit of a lawless alley if you want to describe it that way,” said Martin.

“There’s a bit more control at the shelter itself, but there’s still calls – and you folks know, you see the emergency vehicles down there from the RCMP perspective.” 

Since the Riverside shelter opened, fire department calls have slightly decreased, with 57 recorded over the past 10 months. 

Calls for RCMP reached 74 between September 2024 and July 2025 – a modest drop compared to the Bay Avenue site, which saw 99 calls at its peak in 2021. 

These calls included disturbances, wellness checks, thefts, and suspicious activity. 

Despite the slight decline, Councillor Thea Hanson – who voted against the renewal – pointed out concerns surrounding individuals congregating outside the shelter. 

“One of the concerns brought forward by RCMP before the shelter opened was individuals surrounding the shelter, outside the shelter fence, and passing along food and whatnot,” said Hanson.

“I just want to inquire what the policy is and is it being followed, because I can see around there shopping carts and such. And my concern is the congregation – people that are not allowed to be in the shelter because they can’t follow the rules – causing disturbances for the neighbours.” 

BC Housing explained that the shelter does not have enforcement authority over the area outside its fence but agreed that if the issue continues, further discussion with the City and community members may be needed. 

Drop-in concerns 

Councillors Bev Benson and Doug Wilson raised concerns about what was described at the Community Safety Task Force meeting as a “three-day reset” pattern where some guests have reportedly been using the shelter briefly before returning to encampments around the city.

For Benson, this resembled a drop-in model, something she said the City had intentionally tried to move away from. 

Drobot clarified the shelter’s approach.

“There is no three-day reset or three-day policy here,” she said. 

“There’s always a desire to get people to engage with services to the greatest extent possible and build relationships so that they can start to improve their quality of life.
People do have a choice though, and you cannot keep people in a place like a shelter if they choose not to. So some people may choose to leave.” 

Councillor Wilson, who also opposed the extension, echoed those concerns.

“We were sold on the shelter not being a drop-in for a night. It was supposed to be for people who want to be there and stay there. So that’s a big shock for me,” said Wilson. 

“If somebody stays there for a night but keeps leaving and coming back, there’s got to be a pattern that you can follow to say ‘sorry, you know, either you’re in or you’re out.’ But that’s what we were sold on.” 

Drobot responded by questioning the alternative. 

“So then you deny them the bed and their housing community?” she asked. 

“No, I want people who want to be there full time,” Wilson replied. 

“The shelter that we had downtown was a come-and-go model, and it created a hub in that alley. So I’d like to just know if we can get some assurances from you that this is more of a shelter for people who want to be there – not who just want to go in for a day, do their laundry, whatever they do in there, and then leave again.” 

Both Drobot and Baker emphasized that the shelter aims to provide long-term support, but added that shelter staff cannot deny service to those only whiling to stay short-term.  

“That’s the expectation. They create a care plan. But you can’t force it on them,” said Drobot.

“And we won’t deny service to someone who is only willing to stay for a couple of nights. That’s not what emergency shelter is about. We want people to stay. People are accessing services and doing really well and staying there because they see the value it has in their lives and the improvements that they’re making.” 

Not a permanent solution 

Council also emphasized that the shelter is not a permanent solution, and BC Housing acknowledged that efforts to find a long-term supportive housing site in Trail are ongoing – but slow. 

“The first step in building a permanent shelter in Trail is to find a site. So we need to agree on where in Trail a permanent shelter can go – just like we agreed on the Riverside Avenue,” said Baker. 

He added that B.C. Housing’s approach includes both shelter and supportive housing, as part of a complete housing continuum. 

“All of that is part of a continuum of housing that people can move along. We have a number of people on both of our teams who are evaluating options in Trail for permanent housing and we are looking at it as a complete region.” 

A recording of the meeting is available on the city’s website, you can watch it by clicking 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.

The post La Nina shelter to operate until 2028 appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Nanaimo city council has provided support for a new cellular tower in the Westwood Lake area.  

The tower will be on land leased by Rogers at 2517 Jingle Pot Road. 

City council was asked for a letter of concurrence for the proposed tower at its July 21 meeting.  

“The proposed telecommunications facility is intended to enhance existing wireless service to meet the growing personal and emergency demands of the neighbourhood,” reads a staff report to council.  

The report says a development permit is not needed, but a tree removal permit is. 

“It is anticipated that approximately 30 trees are to be removed to facilitate site access, construction, and maintenance of the tower; however, it is not expected that the compound will be viewed by any nearby residential dwellings due to the retained trees onsite. The proposed tower will project above the existing tree line,” the report says. 

A couple residents from the area spoke to council to voice opposition to the tower. They cited health concerns as one reason they do not want the tower in their neighbourhood. 

“I appreciate the health concerns, but candidly I am not moved by the health concerns related to the placement of the towers themselves,” said mayor Krog, adding people use cell phones every day. “It is an essential part of modern life, much like the automobile became an essential part of the modern world and air pollution came along with it – I think we have to be realistic.” 

Councillors Ben Geselbrecht, Hilary Eastmure and Paul Manly opposed supporting the tower. 

The post Nanaimo council support new cell tower on Jingle Pot Road  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

The BC Wildfire Service says the fire danger for most of Vancouver Island is rated as high, with the southern portion of the Island from Nanaimo down to Victoria rated as extreme .

Coastal Fire Centre Information Officer Julia Caranchi says it’s the result of the hot weather and lack of rain, conditions that are currently expected to remain for at least another week.

Caranchi says in such dry conditions people need to exercise additional cautions as wildfires can be sparked in many ways,

“Using certain power tools in the bush is a good example of that, riding an ATV over grass is another example of that, so basically, if people are engaging in any activity that could create a spark, that could potentially cause a wildfire when we’re an extreme fire danger.”

A campfire ban has been in effect as of July 17, and remains in place until the end of October, or until the order is rescinded.

The BC Wildfire Service says outdoor gas stoves used for camping which are CSA or ULC rated and approved are exempt from the ban, along with devices that burn charcoal briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel, and have a flame height less than 15 centimetres.

The earlier ban on Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remains in place.

The post Extra caution needed as wildfire danger is high to extreme on Vancouver Island appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The BC Wildfire Service says the fire danger for most of Vancouver Island is rated as high, with the southern portion of the Island from Nanaimo down to Victoria rated as extreme .

Coastal Fire Centre Information Officer Julia Caranchi says it’s the result of the hot weather and lack of rain, conditions that are currently expected to remain for at least another week.

Caranchi says in such dry conditions people need to exercise additional cautions as wildfires can be sparked in many ways,

“Using certain power tools in the bush is a good example of that, riding an ATV over grass is another example of that, so basically, if people are engaging in any activity that could create a spark, that could potentially cause a wildfire when we’re an extreme fire danger.”

A campfire ban has been in effect as of July 17, and remains in place until the end of October, or until the order is rescinded.

The BC Wildfire Service says outdoor gas stoves used for camping which are CSA or ULC rated and approved are exempt from the ban, along with devices that burn charcoal briquettes, liquid fuel or gaseous fuel, and have a flame height less than 15 centimetres.

The earlier ban on Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remains in place.

The post Extra caution needed as wild fire danger is high to extreme on Vancouver Island appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The Williams Lake Fire Department was out in force last night (July 22) conducting their annual Food Drive for the Salvation Army Food Bank.

Fire Chief Evan Dean said it went quite well this year.

“We ended up getting just over $1600 in cash, cheque, and gift card donations. We’re not sure how much food we collected yet as it’s done by weight but visually it certainly looks like more than we typically get, everybody was quite generous.”

Even when times are tough, the community of Williams Lake always comes through.

“Over the years we’ve found even with varies changes in the economy and even COVID we always worry that maybe people may not be as generous as they’ve been in the past but honestly it seems like when times get tougher our community is even more generous and this just shows how great this community is.”

Dean noted it’s always great to see just how generous the people of Williams Lake are, even when they’re not expecting us to come by.

“People always scramble to get us a little bit something to help out the most vulnerable in our community and it’s always much appreciated.”

The post Spirit Of Giving Shown During Christmas In July Food Drive In Williams Lake appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

χʷɛmaɬkʷu (Homalco) First Nation filed a petition for judicial review with the Supreme Court of British Columbia on July 16 — challenging the B.C. ministry of forests archeology branch on its decision to not enforce compliance with permits granted to an archeological contractor at a Campbell River construction site.

Approximately 1,230- to 1,650-year-old ancestral remains were uncovered during site preparation on South Island Highway in December of 2024.

Due to several failed attempts at communication from the archeology branch, χʷɛmaɬkʷu leaders say they only found out after a post was made about the discovery in a newspaper almost a month after the remains were unearthed.

“Our Guardians were turned away from the site, our phone calls and letters were unanswered,” says Chief Darren Blaney. “The province did not reach out to our referrals department to conduct consultation, which they should under (the Decleration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, or DRIPA).”

DRIPA, according to the province, is aimed at protecting indigenous cultural heritage, including archeological sites such as these.

Χʷɛmaɬkʷu First Nation believes these remains belong to their North Salish ancestors and that they should be cared for according to North Salish customs and protocols.

The post Homalco First Nation files petition to B.C. Supreme Court over ancestral remains appeared first on My Campbell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Campbell River Now

About 4,000 BC Hydro customers will be without power in and around Burns Lake starting Friday night.

This is the third of three outages planned in the area to replace wooden structures in the Burns Lake substation.

The outage will start at 11:00 and go until 7:00 the next morning.

Any customers that will be impacted by the outage will receive advance notification in the form of automated telephone calls or postcards in the mail.

The previous outages happened on May 23rd and June 15th.

The post Burns Lake area to lose power Friday night for maintnance appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

The Exploration Place is inviting the community to check the refreshed museum.

The changes made since it’s reopening in 2022 were based off of feedback and constructive criticism from visitors.

Executive Director Alyssa Leier said the biggest feedback they got was around the removal of the Children’s Gallery.

“We worked together as a team and started writing grants and making proposals, and came up with this amazing Explorations Gallery, which focuses on STEAM education.”

“The focal point of this gallery is all these hands on STEAM fixtures, and those fixtures have started coming in now. There’s a few of them on the floor.”

Leier added that they also brought back old favourites from the previous gallery, with three more fixtures arriving in a couple weeks.

The Exploration Place is also a non-profit, needing donations to operate, introducing admission by donation every Thursday.

Leier said it’s also a way they’re breaking down a financial barrier for families.

“We came up with the idea of admission by donation on Thursdays, and that’s a day that the public can come in and pay whatever they’re comfortable paying.”

“We don’t want there to be a financial barrier keeping families away from being able to access the programs and the exhibits that we have at the Exploration Place.”

Starting September, the George Phillips Gallery will have it’s next travelling exhibit called Extreme Sports, aiming to engage kids into sports, with more information being released in the coming days on The Exploration Place’s social media pages.

More information about the changes can be found on the Explorations Place’s website here.

The post The Exploration Place use community feedback to bolster museum experience appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The Regional District of Nanaimo has received approval from electors to exchange land in French Creek for infrastructure and a park expansion. 

An Alternate Approval Process (AAP) was held for approval to exchange a 0.55 acres portion of Lee Road Community Park for a 1.51 hectare piece of a nearby property to support expansion of the French Creek Pollution Control Centre.  

BACKGROUND: RDN will hold AAP for land exchange to expand French Creek Pollution Control Centre   

The RDN says it received three elector response forms voicing opposition to the exchange. For the AAP to fail, ten per cent of eligible electors in the RDN would have to voice opposition. 

The plan includes creating a public trail and ecological corridor along French Creek, according to the RDN, while removing a portion of land in the Lee Road Community Park to allow for the expansion of the pollution control centre. 

In total, the land exchange will result in about one hectare of additional parkland. 

The post AAP allows for land exchange in French Creek  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) approved up to $1.7 million to the Woodlot Product Development Council (Woodlots BC) to carry out wildfire risk reduction treatments throughout the Province.

FESBC said there are more than 800 woodlots across BC, many of which have been in operation for more than 40 years with some active for as long as 70 years.

“Approximately 20% of woodlots are located in a Wildland Urban Interface and have a high or extreme wildfire risk.” Gord Chipman, Executive Director Woodlots BC said. “With the Forest Enhancement Society of BC’s investments for new wildfire risk reduction projects, woodlots will have the opportunity to be proactive and take greater strategic action to better protect communities and people.”

Last year (2024) Woodlots BC completed a fuel management treatment totalling 23.7 hectares adjacent to subdivisions at Partrigde Road, Mallard Drive, Quail Road and Crane Road near the community of 150 Mile House.

“We’re currently accessing some woodlots in the Cariboo, Quesnel, Williams Lake, and 100 Mile House.” Chipman said, “There are five we are looking at right now in the Williams Lake area. There was a landscape level plan that was completed in Quesnel that was completed recently and it identified a number of woodlots in the Quesnel so now we’re going through that process of getting out there and determining if they’re suitable or not for treatment.”

Chipman noted that there were a couple of woodlots that have already completed wildfire risk reduction treatments down in 100 Mile House in the last couple of years, and there are some other possibilities down there as well.

From the Woodlot BC perspective, Chipman said they’ve been losing between 5 and ten thousand hectares a year of woodlots throughout the Province because of fires.

“We want to maintain the health and resiliency of our forests. We don’t just want to wait until the fires come, we want to set set up the forests so they can be resilient to a fire, or they can be an area that can be safe to operate in or to suppress a fire. Our whole intention is to be proactive,” Chipman said.

Chipman added that they’ve been working FESBC since 2018 right after the 2017 fire flat that we had in the Cariboo.

“We started then conducting prescriptions to determine how to reduce the risk on the woodlots. Since then we’ve treated 8 different ones in the Cariboo. So we do have a working relationship with the Forest Enhancement Society of BC and we really enjoy working with them,” Chipman said.

Woodlot tenures are unique to BC where public forested land is designated for management by families, small incorporated companies, or First Nations communities who hold licences to manage these areas, often in combination with privately owned land FESBC said.

The post Woodlot Wildfire Risk Reduction Treatments Planned For The Cariboo appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

The Prince George RCMP is asking for the public’s help in finding 19-year-old Autumn Tristen Gagnon.

Police say she’s wanted on one endorsed warrant for theft under $5000 and failing to comply with probation order.

Gagnon is described as:

• Caucasian female
• 5’1
• 111 lb
• Blonde hair, dyed brown
• Brown eyes

Anyone with information about Gagnon’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300.

The post PG RCMP seeking woman wanted on one endorsed warrant appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Tim Fragle is stepping away from the Trail Smoke Eaters to pursue new opportunities in hockey.

Last year Fragle was named the winner of the Joe Tennant Memorial Trophy for Coach of the Year and guided the team to a franchise-record 15-game winning streak.

Under his leadership, the team elevated its competitive standard and left a lasting mark on the BCHL.

“I am so thankful to Rich & Annie and the entire Murphy family for providing me the opportunity to lead the Smoke Eaters program and for all their support during my time in this position. Thank you to all of the staff within the organization for everything! The staff in Trail are truly amazing and I will miss working with all of you.” said Fragle.

“To the volunteers, fans, friends and the community of Trail, THANK YOU! Your love and passion for the Smoke Eaters makes the player and staff experience one of the top places to play and work in the BCHL!”

This season, Fragle also became the winningest Head Coach in Trail Smoke Eaters franchise history with 112 wins, while amassing an impressive 427 total victories at the Junior level throughout his coaching career.

“We are extremely grateful for the passion and leadership Tim brought to our organization,” said Trail Smoke Eaters ownership.

“He helped elevate our program in so many ways. We thank him for his tireless efforts and wish him nothing but success in his future endeavors.”

He’ll be replaced effective immediately by Eric Thurston, who was the associate coach and assistant GM last year. 

Thurston brings over 30 years of professional coaching experience, including extensive success at the Junior, collegiate, and international levels. He joined the Smoke Eaters for the 2024-25 season after six seasons in the AJHL with the Grande Prairie Storm and Drayton Valley Thunder.

“It’s an absolute honour to coach such a historic organization. I have to thank Rich and Annie and the Murphy family for this amazing opportunity. The fans in Trail are truly the best in the BCHL and I absolutely love the community and its legendary history. I’d also like to wish Tim Fragle all the best. He has been a great friend, and I’ve learned so much during our time coaching together. I know he’s going to do well wherever he ends up.” said Thurston.

Prior to his time in the AJHL, Thurston spent 17 seasons with the University of Alberta Golden Bears program—serving 11 seasons as Assistant Coach and 6 seasons as Head Coach—and was a part of six National Championship teams. His wealth of experience, leadership, and player development expertise will be instrumental in guiding the Smoke Eaters forward.

“We’re confident that Eric will continue to elevate the success of our program,” said Craig Clare, Director of Hockey and Business Operations for the Trail Smoke Eaters.

“His experience and championship pedigree are tremendous assets to our organization.”

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNowNews Alerts.

The post Fragle departs Smoke Eaters appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

The Prince George RCMP are reminding you not to take the bait the next time you receive a fake email, phone call or text messages from fraudulent companies or people.

The methods vary, but the one thing these frauds have in common is their intent, which is to separate you from your money.

The message we want people to hear is just don’t, says Corporal Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer, Prince George RCMP. Don’t engage with the unverified caller; don’t follow the link in an email; don’t respond to the text message. Always contact the parent company yourself to verify the information is correct.

The local detachment has these tips for people to protect themselves from fraudulent schemes:

• Don’t be intimidated by emotional pleas that play on your emotions
• Always verify that the organization you are dealing with is legitimate before acting
• Verify charities with the Canada Revenue Agency
• Verify any calls from your credit card company by calling the phone number on the back of your card
• Don’t give out any personal information
• Protect your computer by having anti-virus software installed and up to date
• Be careful who you share images with
• Protect your online accounts by using strong passwords

If you are the victim of fraud, stay calm. Here are some important steps to follow:

• Gather all the information about the fraud, including documents, receipts and copies of emails or text messages
• Contact your financial institutions and report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money
• Place flags on your accounts and change all your passwords
• Report the fraud to both credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion)
• Report the incident to your local police and get a file number for future reference
• Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or through the Fraud reporting System

The post Don’t take the bait: PG RCMP offers preventive strategies to avoid being scammed appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The post BC First Nations baulk at proposed pipeline project from Alberta Premier appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

A Prince George Judo athlete fell just short of the podium at the Hawaii Summer Judo National Championships in Honolulu. 

Jason Zazelenchuk of Northern Capital Judo Club placed fifth in Senior Men +200lbs (losing the bronze) and 7th place in Senior Men Open Division, which consisted of 21 competitors. 

The post PG’s Jason Zazelenchuk misses podium at Judo National Championship in Hawaii appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Update – 9pm July 23

BC Wildfire Service reports the Comox Lake fire is now under control.

—

The BC Wildfire Service says the Comox Lake fire is now being held.

In it’s latest update, the Wildfire Service says the behaviour of the fire remains low, and is now mainly a smoldering ground fire with no open flame.

By late yesterday, the size of the fire had increased to 5.6 hectares.

Twenty-two firefighters are assigned to the fire, plus one helicopter to support.

Smoke may still be visible in the Comox Valley, but there is currently no risk to recreational structures, campground buildings or critical infrastructure.

The fire was discovered on Monday just north of the Comox Lake Bluffs Ecological Reserve.

The BC Wildfire Service says the fire danger is high on most parts of Vancouver Island, with some areas rated as extreme, which includes the region from Nanaimo south to Victoria.

The post UPDATE – Comox Lake fire is under control appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

The BC Wildfire Service says the Comox Lake fire is now being held.

In it’s latest update, the Wildfire Service says the behaviour of the fire remains low, and is now mainly a smoldering ground fire with no open flame.

By late yesterday, the size of the fire had increased to 5.6 hectares.

Twenty-two firefighters are assigned to the fire, plus one helicopter to support.

Smoke may still be visible in the Comox Valley, but there is currently no risk to recreational structures, campground buildings or critical infrastructure.

The fire was discovered on Monday just north of the Comox Lake Bluffs Ecological Reserve.

The BC Wildfire Service says the fire danger is high on most parts of Vancouver Island, with some areas rated as extreme, which includes the region from Nanaimo south to Victoria.

The post BC Wildfire reports Comox Lake fire is being held appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

Cranbrook residents and businesses are being warned to lock up with a spike in theft about the city.

Cranbrook RCMP has noticed an increase in stolen goods, specifically in the industrial area, with a recent trend indicating that enclosed trailers are being targeted by thieves.

The last few days alone, police have responded to five incidents, including a grey cube electric bike stolen from the back of a pickup truck on Sunday while a traveler was having lunch at a local restaurant in the 1400 block of Cranbrook Street North.

On Monday, July 21, thieves were back at it with one individual returning from vacation to learn his Springdale travel trailer bearing Alberta plate 5JF973 was pinched from a friend’s residence in the 4700 block of highway 95A, while another reported culprits cut a fence and then forced entry into a cargo trailer in the Industrial area stealing over $2,000 in Dewalt tools.

Meanwhile, over the weekend, someone had forced entry into an enclosed trailer in the 1200 block of 6^th Street North and stole over $4,000 in Milwaukee tools.

And finally, police are on the lookout for stolen BC license plate, R27341, which was taken from a business in the 1000 block of Kootenay Street North.

“The Cranbrook RCMP Detachment is taking proactive steps in response to this spike in theft including increased patrols throughout the community, enhancing visibility in high-risk areas, and have deployed both marked and unmarked units as part of their targeted enforcement strategy.” said S/Sgt Barry Graham.

“Investigators are actively pursuing leads and review surveillance footage from recent incidents.”

“Police highly recommend that whenever possible the public avoid leaving valuables in unattended trailers overnight, use heavy-duty locks and hitch immobilizers on all trailers, park trailers in well lit fenced or monitored areas, and record serial numbers and engrave or label tools and equipment to aid in identification.”

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact Cranbrook RCMP at 250-489-3471 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Cranbrook RCMP also ask residents and business owners to continue to be diligent in reporting suspicious persons or vehicles loitering near worksites, equipment, or industrial areas.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Lock up with thieves about in Cranbrook appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Smithers council passed a motion regarding the province’s short-term rental (STR) regulations at tonight’s (Tuesday) meeting.

According to the report, this allows the town to advice the province’s STR branch of operators that have not applied for a business license as of August 1st.

Councillor Genevieve Paterson wondered if STR operators would immediately be penalized.

“No penalties or fines will be served at this time,” said Mark Allen, Director of Development Services.

“If the STR operators have not applied for their business license as of August 1st, staff will report that to the province then their listings will be removed from platforms.”

According to the report, 14 applications for business licenses have been approved with eight still outstanding.

The motion also allowed for the town to report STRs that have not complied with business licencing requirements as of December 31st.

The post Smithers commits to reporting unlicensed short-term rentals appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

Sports by Hartley Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

(As of 12:05 a.m. All times listed are PDT)

MLB:

Jared Young of Prince George has been returned to the New York Mets Triple A farm club in Syracuse.

The 30-year-old Young is batting .171 with 3 homers and 5 RBI’s in 41 at bats this season with the Big League Mets.

He hasn’t played since before the All-Star break.

We have made the following roster moves. pic.twitter.com/OWC7r1rRea

— New York Mets (@Mets) July 22, 2025

New York Yankees  5  Toronto Blue Jays  4  

The box score is here.

The loss ended the Blue Jays club-record 11 game home winning streak.

Toronto leads the A.L. East by 3 games over the Yankees.

The (59-42) Jays and the (56-45) Yanks play the rubber match of their 3-game series tonight (Wednesday 4:07) in Toronto.

#

The Blue Jays 2025 schedule and results are here.

The MLB schedule and results are here.

The MLB standings are here.

BC Football Conference:

The Prince George Kodiaks visit the Kamloops Broncos Saturday night at 6:00 in the BC Football Conference (BCFC).

Both teams are 0-1.

The Kodiaks dropped their season opener 33-13 to the Westshore Rebels while the Broncos lost 50-7 to the Vancouver Island Raiders.

The next home game for the Kodiaks will be on August 16th when they entertain the 0-1 Langley Rams.

More info on the BCFC can be found here.

CFL:

Week 8 of the CFL season begins Thursday night (6:00 PT) with (4-2) Montreal at (5-1) Calgary.

The (3-4) BC Lions are back in action Sunday at 4 PM when they host the (4-2) Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

Hamilton is riding a 4-game winning streak.

The CFL schedule are here.

The post Hartley’s Sports Shorts; Wednesday, July 23rd appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

At a time where rural communities are being asked to promote tourism and economic development, leaders in Christina Lake claim the province has failed to maintain the infrastructure that makes it possible. 

This comes after the province announced it would reclassify a 67-kilometre stretch of the Columbia Western Rail Trail (CWRT) as “non-status rail grade” managed under “wilderness status” –  eliminating its eligibility for funding, oversight and maintenance. 

Grace McGregor, director for Area C with the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary, called the move worrisome, noting Christina Lake contributes significantly to B.C.’s tax base. 

“It’s worrisome because we often get put on the side burner. That’s difficult for us because Christina Lake pays a lot of taxation into the province’s coffers because of the lake properties. They have huge homes, and what they pay in is significant.” 

Tourism impacts

The province originally announced the changes to the trail in 2019, at the time promising no impact to its access or its Great Trail designation. 

However, Tracey MacGregor, economic and community development manager with Christina Gateway, said the province has since broken that promise. 

“There is no preventative maintenance being conducted on this trail. There is no funding available for maintenance of the rail grade,” she said.  

“Five years ago, the province said we were going to notice no particular difference in using this trail. Now it’s saying it’s going to be reverted back to wilderness. So where does that leave us?” 

She added that the decision also comes at a time when investments in tourism are at a peak – referencing Destination B.C.’s Rockies to Rainforest strategy and Destination Canada’s Prairies to Pacific campaign. 

MacGregor said the CWRT downgrade undermines those strategies. 

“Rural communities need to leverage their natural assets so they can attract more tourism and investment into our communities and create resiliency,” she said. 

“How do I signal to investors that Christina Lake is a bankable option? How do I say that they should come and set up an off-the-trail restaurant or a repair station if I can’t give them any assurances that in two to three years it’s not going to be shut down completely because there’s no maintenance plan in place?” 

Christina Lake has relied on tourism as a major economic driver since its sawmill closed in 1970.  

Today, the CWRT supports a wide range of users, including residents, hikers, horseback riders and ATV riders. 

“It’s a link to the whole Boundary. Not to mention its historical significance to all of us – including the Duke of Wales,” added Grace McGregor. 

A call for coordination 

While acknowledging there’s no simple solution, Tracey MacGregor said that makes it even more important for the province to engage with local stakeholders. 

“There are 25 different reasons why we shouldn’t close it, and I suspect there is no easy, out-of-the-box solution. We need to come up with something that doesn’t place an unnecessary burden on any one group. So that we can be clear on where accountability starts and stops, and have a clear management path forward.” 

The pair is calling on the ministries of Forests, Tourism, Parks and Water, Land and Resource Stewardship to come to the table and help develop a coordinated management plan. 

Letters have been sent to those ministries on behalf of user groups and stakeholders, as well as to local MLAs, MPs and other federal and provincial partners. But as of this week, there’s been no formal response. 

The issue, according to Tracey MacGregor, is bigger than one trail.  

“This is truly a B.C. issue. It could set a precedent for a number of different communities. And we have to think regionally and provincially when it comes to rural tourism. People don’t just come to one tiny little town, they float all around the region. And the more we can make that welcoming for them, the better off we’re all going to be.” 

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.

The post CWRT downgrade sparks frustration from Christina Lake leaders appeared first on My Grand Forks Now.

This post was originally published on My Grand Forks Now

Prince George Fire Rescue crews from four halls responded to a commercial structure fire at noon today (Tuesday).

The fire occurred in the 100 block of Ontario Street, with all occupants safely outside while crews located the fire.

Three occupants were medically evacuated and treated by fire crews and the BC Ambulance Service, with no injuries to first responders.

Damage from smoke, fire, and water is estimated at $60,000, and the fire is under investigation.

The post PG Fire crews extinguish afternoon structure fire appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The city is inviting residents to help shape its official community plan. Campbell River is in the process of updating the OCP and has planned events to make it easy to get engaged.

The city will be at the Campbell River Live Streets Rockin’ River Country Night on July 23 from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m.

Staff will also be at the farmers market in Spirit Square on July 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

According to a news release from the city, they will be informal drop-in style events where city staff will be willing to chat and answer questions.

“We heard from many residents early in the process, and now we’re checking back in to share what we’ve learned and where we’re headed,” says Andy Gaylor, director of community planning and livability. “Your input continues to be key in shaping a plan that reflects the community’s values and priorities. Drop by, learn about the OCP process and the highlights from the recent community survey, and provide your feedback on future land use ideas.”

The OCP is a long-term plan that guides how Campbell River will grow and develop over the next 20 years. The city is in the third phase, which is developing a draft plan.

City staff will share highlights from the 2025 community survey, which more than 660 people participated in. The city has published a report on what it heard, which can be found on its website.

The post Campbell River invites residents to help inform Official Community Plan appeared first on My Campbell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Campbell River Now

The bar has been set high for Quesnel’s Girls Softball U17B Chaos team, who has won Bronze in the Silver Pool at the 2025 BC Softball Provincials.

“It was a huge accomplishment for us. I am so proud of the girls,” says Coach Kaitlyn Doucette.

“We started this team in August 2024. This is our first B Team to ever come out of Quesnel. For these girls to have gone to all these tournaments and put Quesnel on the map at the very final one. It’s pretty exciting.”

The Quesnel Girls Softball Association bumped their U17 C Team up to a B Travel Team nearly a year ago. Since then, the team has travelled around the province to play in tournaments. The experience gave the team “good experience” in Coach Doucette’s perspective, as the Chaos team was able to play most of the teams at provincials a few times this year.

This year, the Provincials were held in Kelowna from July 18 to July 20. The Quesnel Chaos Girls played a round robin on Friday and Saturday.

Winning 5 to 2 against the Nanamio Diamonds 09 on Friday.

The Chaos team took a little bit of a tumble in the Round Robin, but bounced back with a 9 to 2 win against the Delta Inferno 09 in the Chaos’ first game of the playoffs on Sunday.

Chaos fell 8 to 4 in their second Sunday game against the Alberni Valley Blazers 08.

However, against the West Kootenay Rebels, the Chaos rallied back with a commanding 13 to 6 victory. Bringing home the Bronze.

“We were fortunate to see a lot of good teams this year, and I know a lot of these girls haven’t seen this level of competition before,” Doucette said on her team’s performance.

“Getting them up to that level, and to get to see what they should expect, was pretty well off of them. We were pretty even with a lot of the teams we played against in Provincials. There were some tough games, but the girls stuck through to the very last innings. They competed very well this weekend.”

With the season wrapped up, the U17B Girls are going to get some much-needed and well-deserved rest of running around and competing.

Seven of the U17B team will be moving up to Quesnel Girls Softball Association’s U19 team.

Doucette isn’t worried about the bar her and the U17B Chaos team have set for themselves in their first year of competition.

“I know our U15 chaos team’s girls moving up to our U17 team. Quesnel has a very good ball, and I don’t think these girls are going to hurt one bit and have any issues competing to how the girls did this year.”

The post Quesnel’s U17B Chaos Team Wins Bronze at Provincials appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

A Campbell River woman is the latest lottery winner on Vancouver Island.

Tanya Friesen won $500,000 on the Extra in the June 27 Lotto Max draw.

Friesen says it was a jaw dropping moment and she was in disbelief at first.

She calls it a life changing moment and hasn’t decided how to spend the windfall yet, but thinks she might treat her father to a helicopter tour.

Friesen purchased the winning ticket at Duncan Bay General Store on North Highland Highway in Campbell River.

The BC Lottery Corporation says so far in 2025, lottery players have more than 25 million dollars in winnings from the Extra and more than 153 million dollars from Lotto Max.

The post Campbell River woman wins $500,000 appeared first on My Campbell River Now.

This post was originally published on My Campbell River Now

The BC Wildfire Service says the three hectare Nanaimo River Road fire is now being held.

Julia Caranchi of the Coastal Wildfire Centre in Parksville says an aggressive response from Initial Attack crews, helicopters, air tankers, and a water tender was able to quickly bring the fire under control

There is a BC Hydro line and homes in the general area, but the wildfire is not a threat to any structures or critical infrastructure at this time.

The smoke from this fire is visible from the north Nanaimo area.

It was discovered Monday afternoon and is believed to be human caused.

The post Nanaimo area wildfire now held by BC Wildfire Service crews appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

Virgil Poffenroth was the best in Tie-Down Roping last year, and he was the best again in this year’s Tie-Down Roping at the Quesnel Rodeo.

The Cowboy from Riske Creek set the fastest times in Tie-Down on both days. Setting a run of 9-flat on Saturday. Then went last with a reverse order start on Championship Sunday, where he set the fastest time of the day again with a 10.92. Taking the Gold Buckle with a total of 19.92.

It was a contentious Tie-Down Roping category this year. The Braaten boys from 150 Mile House were the only two cowboys who set times on Sunday.

Chad Braaten, from 150 Mile House, took second place with a 14.6 run on Saturday, then a 12-flat on Sunday for a 26.6 total. Cody Braaten took third, with a 22.0 on the first day of competition, and 16.22 on Sunday, for a total of 38.2.

The Quesnel cowboys competing in Tie-Down Roping had a spell of bad luck on Sunday. They all struck out against their calves and ended up not setting any times on the final day.

Chetwynd’s Chase Siemens took the Buckle in Bareback Bronc, with a total score of 231 between the two days.

Jared Marshall from Prince George came second in Bareback Bronc with a total score of 229.

In Saddlebronc, only two cowboys were bucked off their horses. Jared Cooper from Spallumcheen scored an 81 on his ride on Championship Sunday. Combining with his Saturday ride of 153, Cooper took hte Gold City Classic Buckle with a total of 234.

Brody Hale from Dorothy, Alberta, was second in Saddlebronc with a total score of 147.

Zach Kemp out of Prince George, took the Gold in Steer Wrestling. Kemp set a 5.3 on Saturday, then a 5.90 on Sunday for an 11.20.

Kemp just barely beat out Quesnel’s Chase Kohorst for the Buckle. Kohorst had the provisional Buckle with a 7.1 on Day 1, then set a 4.60 for a total of 11.7. Finishing in second place.

Tanner Loring won his second Gold City Classic buckle for Junior Steer Riding with a total of 148.

Tye Cunningham from Williams Lake, and Devin Tubbs from Savona tied for second with totals of 132 apiece.

Danica Bussiere out of Vernon won Breakaway Roping with a 4.7 on the first day, then set the fastest time on the final day with a 3.17.

In second was Holly Reid from Monte Lake with a 3.9 and then a 4.09.

Denton Spiers from Quesnel, and Carey Isnardy from Cache Creek won the #8.5 Team Roping with a 10.7 on the first day, and a 7.1 for a fastest total time of 17.8.

Prince George’s Kiera Gillette was the best in Ladies Barrel Racing. It was a close competition, but Gillette won with a 16.522 seconds.

Three racers scored in 16.9 seconds. Kim Meise from Prince George came second with a 16.934 seconds. Odessa Blackwell from Savona was third with a 16.943-second run. Then Kirstin Bell out of Cache Creek was fourth overall, setting a time of 16.978.

Quesnel’s Kenzie Lloyd rounded out the top 5 Barrel Racers with a 17.141 on Sunday.

Braidey Hinsche from 150 Mile House won the Buckle in Junior Barrel Racing, setting a time of 17.068, and nearly six tenths faster than the runner-ups.

Next fastest was Rowan Mceachern out of Prince George’s with a 17.626.

Ellie Hill was one point one second faster than her runner-up in the PeeWee Barrel Racing.

The Lake City’s Hill had a final run of 17.415, and Grace Poffenroth came second with an 18.536.

Quesnel’s Brock Lawlor came out with gold in the Junior Breakaway Roping. Lawlor set the fastest times on both days, with a 2.88 on Saturday, then a 2.9 on Championship Sunday.

150 Mile’s Rowdy McNolty was the only other cowboy and cowgirl who set a time in Junior Breakaway Roping. McNolty set a 4.8 on Saturday, and a 4.2 on Sunday.

Married couple Rika Antoine and Jonah Antoine from Cache Creek won the Buckles for Team Roping. The Antoine’s set times of 6.5 on Saturday and 6.9 on Sunday.

The calves were crafty and clever on Sunday, with only the Antoines and two other teams setting times.

Vanderhoofs Jason Beier and Riley Olin had a chance for a good run, but were given a five-second penalty, which took them out of the competition.

Bobby Louis from Vernon, and Mark Pozzobon from Savona came second with a 6.1 run on the first day, then an 8.12 on Sunday.

And for the grand event of Bull Riding. There were many buck-offs, and one major close call with 100 Mile’s Connor Glueck.

Glueck was bucked off a bull named Buck Wheat, who stomped on and then charged Glueck. Glueck was able to get up and out of the way thanks to the help of the Bull Fighters. Glueck had what looked like minor injuries with the help of the Bull Fighters.

Prince George’s Decker Passey was the victor in Bull Riding. Passey was the only rider to set a score on both days. Passey scored an 81 on Saturday, then ended the game on Sunday with a 71, for a total of 151.

The only other Bull Rider to set a score on Sunday was Elias Gomez from all the way down in Tequila, Mexico. As the Highest Scorer for the day, Gomez did take home a little prize money in Aggregate Pay.

The Justin Zimmerlee team took home some buckles from winning the Wild Horse Race.

The Sunday 50/50 Draw came to a jackpot of $4465.

The post Riske Creek Cowboy Takes Tie-Down Roping Champion in Back-To-Back Quesnel Rodeos appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

The Fort St James RCMP is seeking the public’s help in finding 34-year-old Matthew William Collins.

Police say they received a report of Collins being missing on Wednesday (July 16th), and was last seen by family almost three weeks prior.

Collins is described as:

• Indigenous male
• 5’ 8”
• 221 lbs
• Short black hair
• Brown eyes
• Medium build

RCMP say he lives a high-risk lifestyle, with family and friends worried about his well-being.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fort St James RCMP at 250-996-8260.

The post Fort St James RCMP asking for help in locating missing man appeared first on My Nechako Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Nechako Valley Now

The federal government is investing more than $11.1 million into housing in Port Hardy.

The funding was announced as part of a sacred blessing ceremony hosted by the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Housing Society (GNHS) on July 22.

“This blessing ceremony signifies more than just the start of construction; it represents a commitment to our community’s well-being and a new chapter of hope for our families and Elders. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when Indigenous leadership, government partners, and industry come together to address critical housing needs in a culturally respectful way,” says Chief Leslie Walkus, Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw First Nations

A news release from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) says the project is a crucial step to address an urgent need for safe, affordable and culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous households and Elders in Port Hardy and the District of Mt. Waddington.

It will be 27 apartments across three low-rise buildings at 8925 Park Drive. There will be a mix of one, two and three bedroom units.

K’awat’si Construction Company, a subsidiary of K’awat’si Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), will be in charge of the construction.

“It’s crucial that Indigenous people in Port Hardy and throughout British Columbia have access to affordable homes where they feel culturally safe and supported. We’ll keep working with First Nations and the federal government so more Indigenous people find homes that reflect their culture and values, close to family in the community they love,” says Christine Boyle, B.C.’s minister of housing and municipal affairs.

The post Federal government invests in housing in Port Hardy appeared first on My Tri-Port Now.

This post was originally published on My Tri-Port Now

Mounties in Prince George are investigating a weigh scale blaze that occurred on Highway 97 north over the weekend.

The RCMP received a report of a fire around 10:00pm on Saturday and is being suspected as an arson.

Emergency responders received a report of flames coming from the CVSE office located at the weigh scale.

Officers arrived on scene shortly after and gathered evidence to suggest the fire was intentionally set.

“Police believe that this incident is related to another suspicious fire investigation that occurred on December 24, 2024 at the Highway 97 South weigh scales. There was orange spray-paint graffiti located on a sea-can nearby, that is similar to what was located in December. The graffiti reads “good job McCreadie,” said Cst. Jenna Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

Investigators are hoping someone passing by that section of the highway might have dash camera footage that caught people or vehicles approaching or leaving the area in the time before the fire was reported to police.

In addition, Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement officers – members of the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) – are once again raising serious safety concerns.

According to the union, the site was closed at the time, and no CVSE officers were present during the incident.

However, in recent years these workers across the province have consistently reported vehicles and worksites being targets of violent acts.

“Our union has been raising the alarm about the dangers CVSE officers face on the job, and this weekend’s incident is another troubling reminder that government must act urgently to improve safety and working conditions,” said BCGEU president Paul Finch.

“The BCGEU has been working with the provincial government on this issue, and while an independent risk assessment is a critical next step, more needs to be done to ensure members are appropriately supported to feel safe on the frontlines,” added Finch.

“We’re committed to helping expand these efforts as quickly as possible.” 

The union represents 184 CVSE officers across the province.

The post PG RCMP investigating suspicious fire at weigh scale; BCGEU eyeing safety concerns appeared first on My Nechako Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Nechako Valley Now

More than 700 hectares near Nanaimo have been transferred to the Snuneymuxw First Nation from the province. 

The transfer of te’tuxwtun North (Mount Benson North) is the latest in the implementation of the 2020 Snuneymuxw First Nation and British Columbia Land Transfer Agreement, which will see more than 3,000 hectares of land returned to Snuneymuxw. 

“This third transfer marks another meaningful step forward in restoring our responsibility over our lands,” said Snuneymuxw First Nation chief Mike Wyse. “Each parcel returned strengthens our nation’s economic independence and renews our deep connection to te’tuxwtun North. More than 2,000 hectares of our village lands have yet to be returned under the agreement and we remain firmly committed to continuing this vital work until every piece is restored, for our people and future generations.” 

According to a news release from the province, the land will be held in fee simple by the Nation’s Petroglyph Development Group (PDG) and will join the Nation’s forestry business, Mount Benson Forestry. 

“PDG, through a Mount Benson Forestry Limited Partnership, will continue working with the land to build an economic engine that drives prosperity and strengthens self-determination,” said Ian Simpson, CEO of Petroglyph Development Group. “We are reclaiming our vital role within our territory and continuing a legacy of sustainable growth.”

The post 700 hectares returned to Snuneymuxw First Nation  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

Kimberley residents can expect to see some roadwork throughout the community as crews patch potholes.

Work begins on Wednesday in the areas of Forest Crowne Gate, Morrison Road and Knighton Road.

Spray patching is a road maintenance technique that uses a specialized machine to clean, coat, and fill potholes and cracks in asphalt.

City staff say it’s the most cost-effective and efficient method.

The work is expected to wrap up by Friday.

Loose gravel will remain around the patched areas for a few days to allow for proper setting.

City staff say street sweeping in those areas will occur once the patches have had enough time to set.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Kimberley patchwork starts Wednesday appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Cranbrook city council has given three readings to a bylaw enforcement amendment that will authorize fines through the unsightly premises and public places bylaw.

Without the amendment, the municipality is unable to take corrective action to remedy minor nuisances that occur within the city.

The public places bylaw outlines expected standards of behaviour in public areas like public intoxication, fighting, graffiti and littering.

The unsightly premises bylaw gives clearer authority for the city to act on properties that are neglected or pose a nuisance.

“People want their neighbourhoods to feel safe and clean, and they want to be able to enjoy public spaces without running into disruptive behaviour, vandalism and garbage,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

“These new bylaws will really help our staff better respond to those concerns more quickly and effectively.”

Some of the proposed fines include $150 for garbage, rubbish or discarded materials accumulating on a property and for noxious weeds, among other offences.

The public places bylaw would include a $200 fine for discharging fireworks, $500 for obstructing a bylaw officer and $200 for defacing buildings.

Each fine will also have a lesser option if its paid within 14 days, or a more expensive fine if it’s paid late.

The full list of proposed fines under these two bylaws can be found here.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Bylaw enforcement amendments given three readings appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

The Cranbrook RCMP is looking for the public’s help in locating 27-year-old Jeff Darrian.

Darrian was last seen by family over 48 hours ago and is believed to still be in the Cranbrook area.

He is described as an indigenous man with a thin build, light complexion with brown eyes and black hair and a beard.

Anyone with information on Darrian’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Cranbrook RCMP at 250-489-3471.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Cranbrook police searching for missing man appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

With the distraction of contract talks now over, Bowen Byram can put all his focus on next season.

After lots of outside talk about trades, offer sheets and contracts, Byram and the Buffalo Sabres put it to bed when they announced a new deal last week.

Byram inked a a two-year deal with an average annual salary of $6.25 million.

The 24-year-old defenceman has been back home for the summer and is looking ahead to next year.

“I’m happy it’s done and out of the way,” he said.

“I can focus on getting prepared for the season and getting back with the guys and getting on the ice, which we’re all excited to do.”

Byram had a personal best last season with 38 points in 82 games along with an 11 +/-.

He says there is still room to grow in his game.

“I’ve been pretty happy with my time in Buffalo and I have an opportunity to play a bigger role and play more minutes,” he added.

“As a player I have a lot more to give and I’m looking forward to having the opportunity to do so.”

His new contract will being him to unrestricted free agent status at the end of the 2026/27 season.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Byram pleased to have contract done appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is ending the month of July with a series of FireSmart events throughout the region.

Elko residents are invited to an educational session on July 24, starting at 7:30 p.m. at 8868 North Hirtz Street.

During this event, FireSmart representatives will be sharing best practices for addressing home ignition zones.

A similar event is also scheduled in Baynes Lake on July 25 at 5 p.m. at 439 Baynes Lake Road North.

Then from July 25 to August 8, Rosen Lake community members are invited to a debris bin event to remove dead and down branches.

The month ends with a BBQ and info session for Tie Lake residents on July 26 at 4 p.m.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post FireSmart wrapping up July with multiple events appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

The City of Nanaimo will remove a piece of park dedication at Elaine Hamilton Park to allow for construction of a road.  

The parkland removal required an Alternate Approval Process (AAP), which is now complete. 

The city says 422 elector response forms were received expressing opposition to the change. In order for the AAP to fail, 7,672 response forms would have had to be submitted (10 per cent of electors in the city.) 

The proposed road will allow access for a part of the Sandstone development by Seacliff Properties, which will reimage Nanaimo’s southern entrance with a 294-hectare community with commercial, industry and residential spaces.   

BACKGROUND: AAP will ask for elector approval to remove piece of parkland in south Nanaimo   

With the elector approval now secured, council can proceed with adopting a bylaw to amend the parkland dedication. 

The development will create additional park and public space when complete and the developers have committed to replacing the park’s washroom facility. 

The post Council gets approval to remove parkland dedication from portion of Elaine Hamilton Park appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

The Comox Valley Aquatic Centre will close from August 9 until August 29 for annual maintenance, but during this time, the Sports Centre pool will remain open.

Jennifer Zbinden, Senior Manager of Recreation Services, says based on feedback from the community, they are changing the scheduled shutdowns so that one facility is always open.

“We understand and value our patrons and know how important access to recreation is year-round.”

The Aquatic Centre will be open briefly during the morning of August 11th for fall recreation program registration.

Both facilities will be closed during the Labour Day long weekend, reopening September 2nd for the fall schedule.

The post Dates announced for Aquatic Centre summer maintenance shutdown appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

On Monday afternoon (July 21^st) Williams Lake RCMP was advised of a “Crash Detection Notification” from what Police believe to be an Apple electronic device.

“Essentially what was relayed to us was that there was a strong possibility that a plane had crashed somewhere at or near Horsefly Lake,” Sargeant Brad McKinnon said, “Our Police officers as well as several other First Responders including Search and Rescue responded to the area. Once on scene and through some investigative efforts we were able to later to determine that NO plane crash had taken place and it appeared to be a malfunction with an Apple electronic device”.

McKinnon said there was an individual in the area camping and fishing, they had placed their cellular device on the dashboard of their vessel, hit some rough waters, that in conjunction with the heat caused the device to emit some type of satellite text messaging to an emergency contact.

“That individual then contacted us and somehow this software beamed what was taking place with the phone bouncing around the dashboard that a plane had crashed.” Mckinnon said, “We can confirm that that did not happen, that there were no issues for public safety, nobody was hurt or injured and that all involved parties were fine.”

Mckinnon noted that the Department is currently in the process of working with Apple Canada to apprise Apple of this incident in the hopes that they might be able to improve their software and or their technology for incidents such as what we dealt with yesterday.

He said there have been quite a number of incidents like that in the Cariboo area throughout the Summer months.

“Our detachment has had several and while we applaud and are quite pleased with some of these technological advancements, we also recognize that they sometimes come with their challenges and the purpose of reaching out to Apple was to kind of help them be aware of the incident and the demands that that places on all First Responder Groups particularly for something that may not require such a robust response,” Mckinnon added.

The post Williams Lake RCMP Confirm There Was No Plane Crash On Horsefly Lake appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

Mounties in Prince George are investigating a weigh scale that occurred on Highway 97 north over the weekend.

The RCMP received a report of a fire around 10:00p.m. and is being suspected as an arson.

Emergency responders received a report of flames coming from the CVSE office located at the weigh scale.

Officers arrived on scene shortly after and gathered evidence to suggest the fire was intentionally set.

“Police believe that this incident is related to another suspicious fire investigation that occurred on December 24, 2024 at the Highway 97 South weigh scales. There was orange spray-paint graffiti located on a sea-can nearby, that is similar to what was located in December. The graffiti reads “good job McCreadie,” said Cst. Jenna Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

Investigators are hoping someone passing by that section of the highway might have dash camera footage that caught people or vehicles approaching or leaving the area in the time before the fire was reported to police.

The post PG RCMP investigating suspicious fire at weigh scale appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Interior Health (IH) is exploring alternative solutions to support laboratory access in Trail. 

IH announced in June that it would close the medical building in downtown Trail on July 28, including the lab located on the third floor. 

Instead, IH said it would move staff to Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, where they are needed for emergency and patient care. Outpatients were told they would have to use the LifeLabs outlet in Waneta Plaza instead. 

The announcement sparked significant backlash from community members, lab patients, and local elected officials – particularly over the lack of public communication leading up to the decision and concerns about accessibility. 

Joanne Isber, program director of lab services with Interior Health acknowledged the community feedback in a statement to Vista Radio, saying IH appreciates the need to support accessible lab services and will take time to engage further with impacted parties.

“We have heard additional feedback from members of the community requesting further consideration and engagement. Interior Health will take additional time to engage directly with partners, including medical staff, municipal leaders, patients and others, to identify further options to address these concerns,”  Isber said. 

While changes to lab services are still necessary to make the best use of limited laboratory staffing resources in Trail, IH is considering alternative solutions to maintain access in the community. 

Discussions are underway, and IH says it will provide an update as soon as possible. 

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNowNews Alerts.

The post Interior Health rethinking Trail lab closure appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Tanner Loring continues his streak of strong rides in rodeo by taking the Gold Buckle in Quesnel during Billy Barker Days.

Heading into Championship Sunday, Loring started in fourth with a score of 70.

Two riders were bucked off their steers, and Tye Cunningham from Williams Lake scored a 67, for a 132 for the weekend, before Loring took his final ride.

Loring lasted all eight seconds on his steer of choice, scoring a 78 on Sunday, giving him 148 total for the weekend. Enough to secure the Buckle.

“I’ve been riding pretty good this year, so I just kept the ball rolling. It feels good,” Loring said, after getting his buckle.

“That cow bucked me off twice before, so I’m glad I finally got her covered, and get the redemption back on her for the win.”

Alkali Lake’s Oliver Robbins, Devin Tubbs from Savona, and Quesnel’s Draydon Lee went after Loring. Robbins and Lee were both bucked off their steers, and Tubs scored a 61, for a total of 132. Not enough to out-seat Loring for the buckle.

Before the Gold City Classic, Loring qualified to ride at this year’s Calgary Stampede.

“It was a pretty cool place,” Loring said on his time at the Stampede. “Way more people, and it’s a Big, well, Bigger, Carnival there. I loved the crowd, and the cows. The Alberta cows can really buck.”

Loring placed second overall in Junior Steer Riding. Scoring a 212 total from all three days, and took $2,500 in Aggregate Pay.

Up next for Loring is continuing his strong performance through the remainder of the season to qualify for the Canadian Finals Rodeo in October.

Loring is currently sitting fourth in the Steer Riding standings for Rodeo Canada, with $3,919 in Aggregate Pay. He is also the only rider from British Columbia currently in the Steer Riding standings this year.

The post Riske Creek’s Tanner Loring Continues Strong Performance in Gold City Classic appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

Community members can look forward to the end of the week as the Prince George Kennel Club will host it’s 19th annual Dog Show.

The show will have three events including confirmation, rally and obedience where dogs go through judging, and different obstacles.

Member Dawn Trusty said this event will have competitors outside of PG.

“They’re from everywhere, from as far as the States, Alberta, Southern BC, I believe there’s some coming from Saskatchewan.”

“We travel a very long way to come to shows, and we have basically kind of a circuit that we follow in achieving our points towards our dogs.”

Trusty added that shows like these take a year to put together, and have already hired judges for next year.

President Karin Beeler said this year will have around 130 dog entries for each confirmation show, with around 30 entries for each trial of rally obedience on Saturday, and around 25 on Sunday.

They encourage anyone coming to watch the show to not bring their dogs, as only dogs registered in the show are allowed.

The Dog Show will be at the Prince George Agriplex from 9am to approximately 4:30pm from Thursday to Sunday, and is free to attend.

More information about the show can be found on their Facebook page here.

The post Prince George Kennel Club hosting four day Dog Show appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The New York Mets announced Infielder Jared Young has been optioned to the Triple-A Syracuse.

We have made the following roster moves. pic.twitter.com/OWC7r1rRea

— New York Mets (@Mets) July 22, 2025

Young, from Prince George, was called up for a second stint on July 12th but has not played since the All-Star break.

He currently has a batting average of .171 with three home runs this season.

The Mets currently sit second in the National League East, behind the Philadelphia Phillies by half a game.

The MLB schedule and results are here.

The MLB standings are here.

The post Jared Young of PG optioned back to the minors appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The BC Wildfire Service says there is no immediate threat to recreational buildings, a campground or critical infrastructure in the vicinity of the Comox Lake fire.

The 4.5-hectare wildfire near Comox Lake Northwest of Cumberland remains out of control at this time.

The fire is believed to be human caused and was discovered on Monday.

It’s located north of the Comox Bluffs Ecological Reserve and the smoke is visible in the Comox Valley.

The BC Wildfire Service says 22 firefighters and two officers are now assigned to the fire, with support from two helicopters, and air tanker and skimmer support is available if needed.

The wildfire service says efforts to contain the blaze are having success, but it faced a challenge on the fire’s west flank where terrain was too steep for air tankers to reach.

The post Comox Lake Wildfire grows to 4.5 hectares appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

There was a significant turnout to all of the events held during the 49^th Annual Billy Barker Days Festival in Quesnel.

Society Secretary Lynne Wright said a lot people showed up for both Seniors Day and Kids Day despite the weather.

“Teen Time turned out to be quite successful this year and the band on Friday night was well received. Saturday I think the parade went off very well, I didn’t get to see it because I was driving the Billy Barker Days float but I’ve heard great comments. And the Sunday night Drone show drew a lot of people as well.”

Wright said the Saturday night live performance of the “Totally Shania” the turn out was incredible.

“The park was packed! I think probably about the fullest I’ve ever seen it for a headliner so that was a great success. And we got thanked multiple times over the 4 days for all the work we do which is much appreciated.”

Now that the 49^th Annual Billy Barker Days Festival is in the books, the Society will now begin to put the wheels in motion for next year’s event.

“This Thursday is our beefs and bouquets meeting where the public is welcome to come and as we say, give us your beefs and bouquets and it will be at CNC at 5:30. We take all the feedback and get back to work again in September,” Wright said.

She noted the sponsorship they get from the businesses is unbelievable, Quesnel is such a supportive town, when you approach a business it’s not very often you get no.

“Somebody said on Saturday that there wasn’t an empty hotel room in Williams Lake, Quesnel, and Prince George that weekend. We get a lot of visitors from 100 Mile House and Williams Lake, I even talked with somebody from Ottawa and Oregon. Now usually they have some sort of family connection that they’re coming back to but we still draw people from all over the place,” Wright said.

The post Quesnel Billy Barker Days Festival Another Big Success appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

The Main Street Market in Smithers saw about 1,000 people attend on Saturday.

Unlike last year, the event was only held once this summer.

“We had one event with a bang and it’s a little bit easier on staff time, vendors, and everyone setting up,” said Samantha LeBlanc, Town of Smithers Communication and Engagement Officer.

Along with the market was the Artisan Tour and Farmers’ Market which she said helped with making the event popular.

Main Street was closed to vehicle traffic through the event with vendors lining the street.

The event also featured live music, food trucks, adult activities, and kids activities including a bouncy castle.

“Depending on staff capacity and budgets, we will likely only have one next year but we are open to discussion if there’s any community partners that want to join in,” said LeBlanc.

The event was started last year as a pilot project with two events.

The post Main Street Market well attended in Smithers appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

Staffing shortages at PG’s University Hospital could result in coverage gaps in obstetrical services starting next month related to high-risk pregnancies. 

In a Facebook Post published on Monday, the health authority noted residents who are pregnant and greater than 20 weeks into their pregnancy, are eligible for medical services at the Labour and Delivery Department at UHNBC. 

The hospital is experiencing a shortage of Royal College Obstetrical specialists that provide care and consultative services to high-risk pregnant individuals. 

Gaps in specialist coverage have the potential to require service reductions and will likely result in occasions where patients may need to be transferred to another centre in the province at no cost.  

The full statement can be found below. 

The post UHNBC says obstetrical service coverage gaps for high-risk pregnancies likely to come in August appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Staffing shortages at PG’s University Hospital could result in a cutback in obstetrical services starting next month related to high-risk pregnancies. 

In a Facebook Post published on Monday, the health authority noted residents who are pregnant and greater than 20 weeks into their pregnancy, are eligible for medical services at the Labour and Delivery Department at UHNBC. 

The hospital is experiencing a shortage of Royal College Obstetrical specialists that provide care and consultative services to high-risk pregnant individuals. 

Gaps in specialist coverage have the potential to require service reductions and will likely result in occasions where patients may need to be transferred to another centre in the province at no cost.  

The full statement can be found below. 

The post UHNBC says cut back in obstetrical services for high-risk pregnancies likely to come in August appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

After a six-year hiatus, the Moricetown Mud Races returned to Witset over the weekend.

The event saw about 90 trucks, all-terrain vehicles, and snowmobiles racing through a mud strip to a massive audience.

“It’s the best turnout that we’ve had,” said Event Organizer Charmayne Nikal.

She added feedback from both spectators and participants was positive with some putting themselves forward to help volunteer next year to keep the event running.

This year’s event was held in memory of Chris Gagnon, Nikal’s father, who originally started the event in 2004.

As a tribute, riders positioned their vehicles at the end of the mud strip before the races started and followed with a parade.

“That moment’s going to stay with me for the rest of my life, it was so powerful,” said Nikal.

She doesn’t anticipate there being many changes next year with further improvements expected in the timing setup.

The Mud Races are set to return July 18th and 19th next year.

The post Crowds gather in Witset for the Mud Races appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

Northern Health accounted for nine percent of all accidental drowning deaths in BC last year. 

That’s according to the latest report from the BC Coroners Service. 

The document states 98 drowning deaths occurred province-wide in 2024, a decline of 18% when compared to 2023. 

In total, our health authority tallied nine fatalities from accidental drowning last year. 

Over half of all drownings in BC occurred in river/creek or lake/pond. 

The majority of deaths occurred between June and September (54%). 

A link to the full report can be found here. 

The post Nine drowning deaths occurred in Northern Health in 2024: Coroners Service appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

A group of teens will think twice about where they set up camp, after a man holding a long-barrelled firearm advised them of trespassing after being caught on private property.

On June 18, Castlegar RCMP arrived on scene after receiving a complaint of a man holding a firearm, after the group heard what sounded like two gunshots near their campsite.

“Later, they were approached by the male who did not threaten the group with violence, nor point the firearm at them, however asked they stay off of his property.” said Castlegar RCMP Sgt Monty Taylor.

The property owner said he and his partner were walking on his rural property, with the firearm for animal protection, when they came across a tent, holes dug in the earth, items scattered along the ground, and trees cut down on his property.

“With no one observed in the area they suspected the camps were abandoned and proceeded to take down the camps when they heard a group of people approaching. They met with the teenagers and adults learning the camps were not abandoned, and recently set up by the teenagers participating in an overnight wilderness camp.” said Sgt Monty Taylor.

The group of teenagers who unknowingly set up camps on the males property, agreed to remove any property.

Upon the teenagers returning to their camps they identified recent damage that appeared to by a cut tent and equipment that appeared to have been shot. The teenagers collected the items and left the area calling police again to inform of the property damage.

Police returned and observed damage to a pack consistent with being shot. Police again spoke to the male and to his partner. Both denied causing damage to any property with a firearm, stating the firearm was discharged toward a bear that was witnessed while they were removing the camps.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Castlegar RCMP at (250)365-7721.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Watch where you camp appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

The post Out-of-control wildfire discovered near Nanaimo River Road appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

Sports by Hartley Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

(As of 12:05 a.m. All times listed are PDT)

MLB:

Toronto Blue Jays  4  New York Yankees  1

The box score is here.

It was a club-record 11th consecutive home victory for Toronto.

The Jays are 59-41 after 100 games; they have won four straight since the All-Star break and they lead the second place Yankees by 4 games in the A.L. East.

Toronto will host the (55-45) Yanks again tonight (Tuesday 4:07 PT).

#

Jared Young of Prince George is with the New York Mets but he did not play in Monday’s
7-5 win over the visiting LA Angels.

The 30-year-old Young is batting .171 with 3 homers and 5 RBI’s in 41 at bats this season with the Big League Mets.

He hasn’t played since before the All-Star break.

The Blue Jays 2025 schedule and results are here.

The MLB schedule and results are here.

The MLB standings are here.

UNBC Timberwolves:

One of the most decorated women’s basketball players at UNBC is being recognized by the university.

Kady Dandeneau is going into the Timberwolves Wall of Honour inside the Northern Sports Centre.

Dandeneau concluded her career (2007-2013) in Green and Gold with 983 points and 407 rebounds, both good for second in program history.

She represented Canada and competed at multiple World Championships, won gold and silver at the ParaPan Am Games, and became the first wheelchair basketball athlete in Canadian history to record a triple-double.

No one was tougher. No one was more resilient. No one wanted to win quite as badly.

Today, Kady Dandeneau takes her rightful place in the UNBC Timberwolves Wall of Honour.

Congrats, Kady. We could not be more proud.

READ: https://t.co/Ts1m1wLprs pic.twitter.com/jsTmSPkGiC

— UNBC Timberwolves (@UNBCATHLETICS) July 21, 2025

BC Football Conference:

The Prince George Kodiaks play their second game of the season in the BC Football Conference (BCFC) Saturday against the Broncos in Kamloops.

Both teams are 0-1.

The Kodiaks dropped their season opener 33-13 to the Westshore Rebels while the Broncos lost 50-7 to the Vancouver Island Raiders.

More info on the BCFC can be found here.

CFL:

The (3-4) BC Lions are back in action Sunday at 4 PM when they host the (4-2) Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

Hamilton is riding a 4-game winning streak.

Week 8 of the CFL season begins Thursday night (6:00 PT) with (4-2) Montreal at (5-1) Calgary.

The CFL schedule are here.

The post Hartley’s Sports Shorts; Tuesday, July 22nd appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Update as of July 21, 2025 at 6:42 p.m; Coastal Wildfire Service says the fire remains out of control, but has grown to four hectares in size.

A wildfire near Comox Lake has been discovered by the B-C Wildfire Service, and people are advised to stay away from the area.

The post Update: Comox Lake wildfire out-of-control, Coastal Wildfire Service appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

A wildfire near Comox Lake has been discovered by the B-C Wildfire Service, and people are advised to stay away from the area.

The post Comox Lake wildfire out-of-control, Coastal Wildfire Service appeared first on My Comox Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Comox Valley Now

The post Hiker lifted to safety despite challenging weather conditions, Alberni Valley Rescue  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

All is quiet when it comes to wildfire activity in the Prince George Fire Centre.

There are 46 blazes currently in our region, none of which are of note while the majority are either being held or under control.

Fire Information Officer, Pedro Roldan-Delgado told Vista Radio the timely rain and cool temperatures has been a major help but areas like the Peace Region are still somewhat dry.

“We are getting some good forecasted rain coming in the next couple days as well as in the past month they have received on and off rain. However, there are still ongoing drought conditions – the more rain the better as there is still that drought.”

91% of current wildfires in our area have been lightning-caused.

So far this year, 708,838 hectares has burned within the Prince George Fire Centre.

The Pocket Knife Creek blaze, 150 kilometres north of Fort St. John is under control at 151,310 hectares. No more daily updates are being provided for this fire.

The Kiskatinaw River wildfire, 60 kilometres of south of Dawson Creek is still being held at 26,277 hectares.

Unburned fuels within the fire perimeter will continue to burn, producing visible smoke.

Crews are focused on mop up and patrol, a critical phase of wildfire response that ensures the fire is contained. Mop up and patrol involves carefully inspecting the burned area to locate and extinguish any remaining hotspots.

There are still many hazards in and around the fire area.

The Area Restriction Order remains in place to support public and responder safety.

The Summit Lake wildfire near Fort Nelson is 80,842 hectares and is being held.

Due to the sustained work of crews in identifying and mopping up hot spots by scanning, combined with recent precipitation, personnel are now monitoring this wildfire.

This fire remains active and smoke may continue to be visible from within the perimeter as pockets of un-burnt fuel smoulder.

Lastly, the Alces River blaze is under control according to the BC Wildfire Service.

It is 4,460 hectares and suppression actions are being taken to limit the spread.

BC has 71 active wildfires burning.

60% of all blazes province-wide have been declared human-caused since April 1st.

The post Mother Nature aiding in wildfire suppression across PG Fire Centre appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Tourism Prince George is launching a new initiative to invite visitors and locals to explore the area’s agricultural roots.

The initiative, called the Farm Tour Experience, celebrates the connection between land, food, and community in Northern BC.

“This is something that people are really interested in when they’re travelling,” said Tourism Prince George CEO Colin Carson.

“They want to experience everything a destination has to offer, and I think local food is a big part of that. This Farm Tour, kind of a guide is something that really highlights the food aspect of Prince George, and I think does a really good job of highlighting some of the unique things that Prince George has to offer.”

The initiative will offer a number of highlights such as a tour of five local farms, and a guide of local stores and restaurants that offer goods from local farms.

“Experience is going to differ no matter where you go,” Carson said.

“You go to somewhere like Wildflower Farm, that’s a spot where you can go and there’s of events happening there and you can go and do some cool things with the local flowers that are grown on site there, and there’s a place like Hope Farm Organics, where it’s produce, and it’s things that you can go do at-site pick up for produce and things like that.”

Carson said what excites him most about the initiative is it highlights a number of things that are happening in Prince George from a local food standpoint.

“It highlights those local restaurants that are using locally grown products,” he explained.

“It highlights the local beverage producers, whether that’s beer or cider or wine or juices, and really talks about all those things that are done locally.”

A full list of participating farms and businesses can be found here.

The post Tourism PG launching new initiative around local farms appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The RDEK is rolling out a new tagging system for mooring buoys on Lake Windermere.

“Leading up to the summer months, we receive numerous inquiries regarding the placing of buoys, which buoys are allowed to be on the lake, how many are allowed to be there, and where they are allowed to be,” said RDEK development and protective services general manager Michele Bates.

“To help provide clear, visual clarity regarding whether buoys are compliant with Transport Canada and RDEK zoning regulations, we are introducing a new three-tiered marking system.”

A green tag means the buoy conforms with the regulation and is compliant, while a blue tag is non-conforming but considered to be grandfathered in and must be placed and removed on an annual basis.

A buoy with a red tag may have been placed contrary to the zoning and will be subject to removal if the owners don’t contact the RDEK to confirm eligibility.

“While voluntary registration of buoys has been ongoing since 2013, we are now stepping up efforts to ensure all buoys comply with the regulations and zoning, are registered and properly placed,” added Bates.

“Our goal is to provide owners with the opportunity to bring their buoys into compliance with Transport Canada’s Private Buoy Regulations and the Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw prior to the implementation of the new tagging system following the long weekend in August.”

Buoys must be clearly marked with the owner’s name, address, phone number and PRV.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post RDEK introducing new buoy tagging system appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Cranbrook city council approved $68,000 for repairs and modifications to the seniors centre.

The facility on 125 17th Avenue South is owned by the city and leased to the Cranbrook Senior’s Association.

City staff said the facility has an apartment used by the onsite caretaker.

That apartment had an exterior patio/sunroom that has been modified into a closed space for a bedroom.

Over the winter, staff were advised that water was leaking into the wood shop in the basement of the facility directly underneath the bedroom.

The leak was due to a buildup of snow and ice.

“To prevent the ice damming from continuing, the enclosed sun room should be returned to its original design purpose,” said public works deputy director Jason Perrault.

“This would allow only cold air to rise through the soffits. The enclosure and heating is the primary cause of the ice damming. The roof of the enclosure is also a low slope and the metal on the roof is not designed for low slope applications which will exacerbate the issues.”

The city is looking to restore the patio/sunroom back to its original design to prevent further leaks.

The total cost of repairs and modifications is $54,075.26 plus a 25 per cent contingency, bringing it to $68,000 rounded to the nearest $1,000.

The money is coming out of the facilities reserve.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Cranbrook council approves funds for senior centre repairs appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

Helena Konanz, Member of Parliament for Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay, has been appointed to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health for the current parliamentary term. 

The Standing Committee on Health examines matters related to Health Canada, including legislation and regulations. It also provides oversight of health-related agencies such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Public Health Agency of Canada. 

“I’m honoured to be granted the opportunity to serve as a member of the Standing Committee on Health, which not all newly elected MPs get the chance to do,” said Konanz.

“I’m looking forward to working with my fellow committee members to improve access to health care, while also addressing the ongoing addiction and mental health crisis, and the increasing unaffordability of healthy groceries.” 

The committee is scheduled to begin its meetings in September when the House of Commons resumes sitting. 

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.

The post Helena Konanz appointed to House of Commons Standing Committee on Health appeared first on My Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My Kootenay Now

Fernie city council has given the okay for the city to write a letter of support for Elk Valley Resource’s Fording River Extension (FRX) project to move to the environmental assessment phase.

The project plan is a proposed extension of EVR’s existing Fording River Operations to extend the lifespan by approximately 35 years.

EVR is seeking a positive readiness decision from the Environmental Assessment Office to allow assessments to begin and is asking local governments for their support.

If the project is fully approved, EVR is anticipating approximately 2,600 additional direct jobs and 8,000 indirect and induced jobs.

Indigenous and government relations director Rory O’Connor says that’s in addition to many local residents already working on the project.

“Fording River operations themselves employ about 1,500 people from across the region and our total company employment is around 5,500 people.”

According to EVR, letters of support have already been sent by the RDEK, the District of Sparwood and the Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass. Elkford is in the midst of developing one.

More information on the proposed extension can be found here.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Fernie sending letter of support for Fording River Extension project environmental assessments appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

The District of Sparwood is launching its own dedicated FireSmart program.

As part of the launch, the district has released a new online FireSmart webpage.

It will provide residents with up-to-date information, resources and guidance on how to reduce wildfire risks.

Sparwood’s FireSmart Coordinator Paul Grismer will be out in the community canvassing and engaging with residents.

Those interested in becoming a FireSmart Neighbourhood Champion can contact the Sparwood Fire Hall by calling 250-425-0558.

Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.

The post Sparwood starting up local FireSmart program appeared first on My East Kootenay Now.

This post was originally published on My East Kootenay Now

At least 621 people were experiencing some form of homelessness in Nanaimo last year, according to a point-in-time count. 

The 2024 point-in-time count was led by Snuneymuxw First Nation and conducted by outreach teams and community partners. 

The count found 320 people unsheltered, living in places like encampments, makeshift shelters or public spaces. There were 117 people sheltered in some form of emergency or transitional shelter. 

Thirty people were counted as “hidden homeless,” which could mean living at someone else’s home. 

A report, which will be presented to city council on July 21, points out a trend of increased homelessness in the past eight years. 

Middle-aged men are the largest demographic experiencing homelessness in the city and the report highlight the disproportionate representation of Indigenous people. 

Indigenous people make up eight per cent of the city’s population and, according to the report, more than a third of the homeless population. 

The count found 74 per cent of people without housing reported addiction challenges and 66 per cent reported mental-health conditions. 

“Without Indigenous-led, culturally safe housing that embeds primary care, harm reduction and mental-wellness supports, people will keep cycling between the sidewalks, the ER and the morgue, and the problem will only compound,” the reports says. 

The point-in-time count learned how people lost housing – 44 per cent said rising costs forced them to move out. Household conflicts, such as evictions or family disputes, were the reason for 246 people losing housing. 

“Housing is lost not through a single doorway but an intersection of high rents, personal upheaval, discrimination and unmet health needs.” the report notes. 

The count looked at what services people accessed in the past year. Of the respondents, 341 accessed food services such as soup kitchens or food banks. Emergency rooms were the second most used service, with 297 people saying they used one in the last year. 

“The total PiT Count grew to 621 people, up 20 per cent from 2023 and roughly 2.5 times the 2016 figure,” the report concludes. “The main drivers remain structural and local: rent inflation, household conflict, discrimination and service gaps; most people counted have lived in Nanaimo for years.”  

The post Point-in-time count finds 621 people experiencing homelessness in Nanaimo  appeared first on My Coast Now.

This post was originally published on My Coast Now

Local leaders and organizations in Christina Lake are sounding the alarm over the decommissioning of a 67 km stretch of the Columbia Western Rail Trail. 

A joint letter from stakeholders, local elected officials, and allies – including the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary’s Area C Director, Grace McGregor – reveals that the trail is at risk of being downgraded to “wilderness status,” meaning it would no longer be eligible for funding, maintenance, or oversight. 

The letter explains that the Province disestablished the 67 km stretch of the former recreation trail between Castlegar and Christina Lake in 2019.

At the time, the public was assured that recreational access would continue and that there would be no impact on the Great Trail designation. 

The Province also stated that public use and access to the section in question would remain unchanged. However, the letter argues that these assurances are no longer being upheld. 

Notice has been received that the section is being treated as non-status rail grade – with no funding, no maintenance, and no management plan. 

Instead, hazard signage is set to be posted this summer, warning of unsafe trestles, active rockfall zones, and tunnel instability, with the trail now being managed under a wilderness status. 

This, according to the letter, directly contradicts the commitments made in 2019. 

“Once again, rural communities are expected to market themselves as tourism destinations while being denied the very infrastructure that draws visitors. We cannot attract visitors or investment when the Province is quietly stepping away from its role as steward. We cannot pretend this trail is an asset if we allow it to crumble into disuse,” the letter reads. 

The letter compares the CWRT to the Othello Tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park near Hope, highlighting an “inconsistency in how trail infrastructure is treated.” 

The Othello Tunnels sustained significant flood damage in 2021.

In that case, the site was closed due to safety concerns, but unlike the CWRT, the Province moved quickly to assess the damage, allocate restoration funding, and engage the public to keep the community informed. 

While the letter acknowledges the CWRT’s complex usage – including activity by local forestry companies Interfor and Celgar, who have also helped maintain the trail’s infrastructure – it argues this complexity underscores the need for better planning and coordinated stewardship, not “abandonment or a lack of oversight”. 

“Both the Othello Tunnels and the CWRT are historic rail corridors, central to B.C.’s heritage and outdoor recreation economy. But only one is receiving the care and coordination required to protect its future.” 

A call for help 

The group is calling on regional and provincial partners, tourism allies, and recreational users to join the advocacy efforts. 

“We cannot lead this effort alone – nor should it fall solely on small, rural communities to defend infrastructure of provincial and national value. This letter is our communities’ way of reaching out: we need the support of larger organizations who recognize what’s at stake,” the letter adds. 

The group acknowledges that Christina Lake does not have all the answers or resources to address the situation.  

However, it noted a commitment to supporting better coordination, amplifying local concerns, and ensuring that communication between communities, advocates, and decision-makers is not lost. 

The group launched a petition to protect the trail and ensure it remains open for all.

The petition 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.

The post Christina Lake rallying to save 67 km stretch of Columbia Western Rail Trail appeared first on My Grand Forks Now.

This post was originally published on My Grand Forks Now

A pair of local MLAs are part of a committee that is seeking input on the Lobbyists Transparency Act.

It entails its review of the law that regulates lobbying activities in British Columbia.

The committee includes Prince George-Mackenzie rep Kiel Giddens and Rosalyn Bird of PG-Valemount, both of whom are flying the Conservative banner.  

The special committee accepts written submissions from interested individuals or organizations until September 19th at 2pm. 

The group will also invite presentations at public hearings. The deadline to complete the review is May 4th, 2026. 

The remaining members of the committee consist of: 

* Steve Morissette, MLA, Kootenay-Monashee (chair); 

* Susie Chant, MLA, North Vancouver-Seymour; 

* Harwinder Sandhu, MLA, Vernon-Lumby. 

The post PG MLA’s named to special parliamentary committee appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The excitement isn’t quite done yet for Special Olympics Prince George athletes as they gear up to host the 29th Annual Prince George Charity Golf Classic on Saturday.

“We’ve got 26 teams that have registered, we’re full, it’s a gunshot start,” said Special Olympics Prince George Public Relations Coordinator Wilma Van Hage.

“We’ve got some athletes, four athletes that are going to do putting, they can pay the athletes and they’ll do a putt for you, we also have another hole, we’ve got four athletes that will do a drive for you, so that’s another fundraiser.”

According to Van Hage, this is the major fundraiser of the year for Special Olympics Prince George, and helps fund the program throughout the year.

“Transportation is a very big cost for us, whenever we want to go somewhere to compete, we’re paying for a bus, hotels, meals, all that kind of stuff,” she explained.

“Also just paying for rentals on facilities, things like that, equipment, uniforms.”

Van Hage said the athletes who take part in the tournament enjoy the day as well.

“It works really well, because all the golfers get to meet the athletes because they’re at the holes, so everybody will meet up with the athletes,” she said.

“We have a dinner after with an a live auction, silent auction and the athletes are certainly involved with that as well.”

The summer season just wrapped up for Special Olympics athletes in Prince George with the Special Olympics BC Summer Games.

“Usually we take a break throughout the summer, and then registration starts in September,” Van Hage said.

“A lot of the programs will start up in October, and then some of our winter ones, like the snowshoeing, will come a little bit later.”

Van Hage said Special Olympics runs on a four-year cycle.

“So the first year would be a regional qualifier, the following year is the provincials, and then from there you would go to nationals and the following year you would go to worlds,” she explained.

She added 2026 will be a regional year for the winter sports, which includes:

• Snowshoeing,
• Floorball,
• Five pin bowling,
• Curling,

Van Hage noted they would like to get their cross-country skiing program again, and currently they are looking for a coach in the sport.

The post Special Olympics PG gearing up for 29th Annual Charity Golf Classic appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

This year the District of 100 Mile House is marking it’s 60^th Anniversary of Incorporation.

Mayor Maureen Pinkney said the little town started just as a ranch back in 1867.

“I was born here so I have seen a lot.” Pinkney noted, “A lot of our downtown core that has buildings now use to be where people would go duck hunting, I remember when downtown was a dirt road. The early 70’s saw most of the development of apartment buildings, our mall, and stuff like that, huge changes. Not as many in the last couple of decades but the main growth of our community came in the 70’s and 80’s.”

On the District’s Facebook Page it noted at the heart of this journey have been the people who sat in the Mayor’s chair, playing a vital role in shaping the town into what it is today.

“Mitch Campsall was the Mayor before me,” Pinkney said, “He had a super big heart and he had to deal with a lot of the big tragedies that happened in our most recent history, the closing of our mills,

fire when we were evacuated in 2017 and COVID. The other Mayors struggled building our community but he had to struggle with really a lot of the emotional things that happened and it was tough.”

Pinkney also spoke about an former Mayor, Donna Barnett who served for 7-terms.

“She is the volunteer extraordinaire. Our community was built on volunteers and her husband Jack built the Snowmobile Gold Rush Trail, she was instrumental in getting a lot of the other ball fields, soccer fields, infrastructure, you name it, she got it done. It was a big job in a young, growing community.”

Pinkney reflected on what makes the District of 100 Mile House a great place to live, work and play.

“You really only have to look at what happened here this last weekend (July 18 to 20). A true standing ovation to the Hot July Night’s group that put on a car show with 450 entries, it was massive so a big thank you to all these volunteer groups that put things on in our community. We just had an 18-team ball tournament and our Junior Hockey Team brings in players from all over. Our town is so friendly and we hear that from everyone who visits and all the new people that have moved here.”

Pinkney added that she is very proud to be the Mayor at this time and to have been born and raised here.

The post 60th Year Incorporated For District of 100 Mile House appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

Trevor Adelman took the checkered flag on Saturday, July 19’s, WESCAR race.

Adelman initially qualified his #47 car in P5, and started behind #19 Kendall Thomas.

Pole position was awarded to car #11, Yianni Kyrtsos, who set a flying lap around the Goldpan Speedway with a 14.837.

During the 100 Lap Main Race, Adelman fought his way up to the front of the pack and held his lead to the end.

Following Adelman in P2 was Kyle Wade, from Courtenay, who qualified in P3. Pole starter Yianni Kyrtsos finished the race on the podium in P3.

Adelman won the 2024 75 Lap Main WESCAR Race during Billy Barker Days.

The other winners in this year’s Main Races were James Bednar in the Streets category.

Quesnel’s Jarrett Bonn won in the Legends category. Bree Ann MacDonald won the Mini’s race. Another Quesnel racer, Brooklyn Olsen, won the Hornets race.

There will be more stock car racing this weekend in Williams Lake at the Thunder Mountain Speedway.

The WESCAR series will be in Agassiz in the Lower Mainland for its next races on August 9.

WESCAR will be back in Quesnel on September 20th.

The post Quesnel’s Adelman Wins Back-to-Back WESCAR Race appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

North Cowichan’s mayor says he respects the collective bargaining process, but the transit strike needs to end and is asking the province to step up and resolve the five-month dispute.

In an open letter to Minister of Transportation Mike Farnworth, Rob Douglas says the strike has gone well beyond tolerable limits and is severely impacting the lives of those who rely on public transit. 

“The effects of this strike are devastating and widespread, especially to seniors, those with disabilities, and low-income households,” Douglas says in an open letter. “This includes people dependent on routes that serve neighbourhoods and town centres, such as Crofton, Chemainus, Maple Bay and Berkey’s Corner, connecting them to the broader commercial core of the region surrounding the City of Duncan.” 

The impact of the five-month-long strike hasn’t just impacted residents; Douglas says this has hit the commerce sector hard and will continue to do so as it drags on without intervention by the province.  

“Community organizations have also echoed these concerns,” he says. “The Chemainus Harvest House Society, which operates food banks in the area, has shared heartbreaking stories about the ongoing hardship the strike is causing.  

“Many affected individuals lack access not only to transportation, but also access to internet, leaving them unable to replace prescriptions, file taxes, obtain identification, or attend appointments.” 

The strike has been in effect since Feb. 8, and Douglas says consequences are already present,  and the province, as well as BC Transit, should take a more hands-on approach to dealing with the conflict.  

The post BC Transit and the province need to resolve transit strike, North Cowichan’s mayor  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

A fire on Chaster Road has been extinguished after Duncan Fire responded to a semi-truck on fire.  

According to witnesses, the fire broke out around 11 a.m. on July 21 after the truck’s trailer brakes started smoking, they add the driver was able to disconnect his rig before the situation got out of control. 

Richard Bails witnessed the fire happen and says the driver was aware something was wrong and acted accordingly. 

“The rig pulled off the highway. He was smoking pretty good, and he slowed to the corner,” he says. “As soon as he (the truck driver) got around the corner, the smoke was aggressive, and flames whipped out.” 

He says as quickly as the fire started it was contained and handled by the fire department.  

“It went up very quickly and engulfed the back of the trailer,” he says. “These guys (responders) have been on it ever since.” 

There were no injuries in the blaze. 

The post Trailer fire in Duncan prompts quick response from local fire department  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

One person was arrested by the Prince George RCMP following a report of a man pointing what turned out to be an imitation firearm at a taxi driver.

Police say the report came in at around 10:30 Friday night.

Officers flooded the area, and the suspect, who was later identified as 38-year-old Prince George resident Clayton Gus Joseph, was located on the corner of Fourth Avenue and Quinn Street.

“Despite the presence of the firearm, Mr. Joseph was arrested by attending officers without incident,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“Though the firearm was later determined to be an imitation firearm, RCMP are reminding the public that a police response to an imitation firearm will illicit the same response as a real firearm.”

A search incidental to Joseph’s arrest revealed a second, non-imitation firearm and some ammunition.

Mounties say the following charges have been approved in the matter:

• Possession of a firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order,
• Possession of an imitation weapon,
• Possession of a weapon,
• Carrying a concealed weapon,
• Uttering threats,
• Fail to comply with probation order (two counts).

Police say Joseph will remain in custody until his next court appearance, and the file is now before the courts.

The post Prince George Mounties arrest one man on report of imitation firearm appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

Quesnel RCMP is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing 58-year-old woman.

Corrine Scott-Hayward was last seen at a residence on Lark Avenue in Quesnel on Sunday July 20, 2025.

Police said Scott-Hayward has some medical conditions and they are concerned for her well-being.

Scott-Hayward is a Caucasian female, four foot nine inches tall weighing 114 pounds, with blue eyes and purple hair and was last seen wearing a pink shirt with floral pants.

Police ask if you see her, please stay with her if you can and to call their detachment 250-992-9211.

The post Public’s Help Being Sought By Quesnel RCMP appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

This post was originally published on My Cariboo Now

Local fire rescue crews responded to a structure fire in the 1500 block of the Hart Highway.

On Saturday, firefighters found smoke exiting the scale building along the road. Crews forced entry into the building and quickly extinguished the blaze.

The fire is under investigation and the dollar loss is estimated at $75,000.

There were no injuries to civilians or fire personnel at this incident.

The post PG fire crews douse structure blaze in the Hart appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

A fire at the tent encampment in Smithers has sparked an arson investigation by the RCMP.

According to the Town of Smithers, the fire started early Saturday morning that left one person with burn injuries and was taken to Hospital.

Smithers Fire responded to the incident and the town said crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly.

Police added one person has been arrested for arson in relation to the incident.

“Arson is a serious criminal offence, and it is alleged to have occurred in the context of a Temporary Overnight Shelter Area, where individuals face overlapping barriers stemming from gaps in housing and health services,” said Cst. Jocelyn Foidart.

“This incident reinforces the importance of a coordinated response to public safety, while also highlighting the need to address the ongoing challenges related to homelessness and health in our community, where gaps in services continue to exist.”

Mounties thank the Indigenous organizations, community partners, and Town of Smithers who were on scene supporting affected residents.

The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Smithers detachment.

The post Smithers temporary shelter area fire suspected to be arson caused appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

This post was originally published on My Bulkley Lakes Now

There may be no one who better exemplifies what a UNBC Timberwolf should be on the court without mentioning the name Kady Dandeneau.

Over the course of a historic career, Dandeneau emerged as the heartbeat of a program, raising the bar and setting the gold standard for commitment, making her a truly deserving inductee into the UNBC Timberwolves Wall of Honour.

Dandeneau made her way onto UNBC coach Loralyn Murdoch’s radar at the BC High School Provincial Championships, impressing with her relentless game representing Stelly’s Secondary.

After a visit to campus, she accepted a spot on Murdoch’s roster for the 2007-2008 season de-committing from Camosun College.

“She was 17-year-old, and she was such an interesting recruit. She wore headphones most of the time, she didn’t speak to anyone, and was clearly shy,” said Murdoch.

“But then we put her on the court and there was absolutely no one who competed harder. I wanted her immediately, and recognized what she could add to our roster. It was a great day for this coach to officially sign Kady Dandeneau.”

It didn’t take long for the first-year to step right into the lineup and make a difference.

Led by veterans Laurel Wallace and Jaclyn Nazareno, the Timberwolves went 11-5, good for second place in the BCCAA standings.

Dandeneau scored 12.3 points per game, which was good for top-ten in the conference while adding just shy of 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists.

“I know that Kady was a rookie, but it’s hard for me to remember her that way. Kady was never really ever a rookie, not in spirit,” said teammates Soili Smith, who was in her third UNBC campaign that season.

“I don’t think I ever met someone so devoted to the game of basketball. She was unafraid to take anyone one-on-one and, like her idol Michael Jordan, took every play by an opponent personally.”

In the playoffs, the first-year continued to assert herself, as the Timberwolves went on a tremendous run, culminating in a 71-54 victory over Camosun and a BCCAA Provincial Championship.

At the conclusion of the season, she was named to the All-Rookie Team, and was crowned UNBC Rookie of the Year.

Year two saw continued growth and a massive impact of the program, as Dandeneau utilized her signature commitment to grow as a player.

The Timberwolves went 14-4, again finishing second in the BCCAA standings.

They would settle for a Provincial silver medal after a loss to rival Camosun, but Dandeneau further established herself as a premier player in the conference.

She scored 223 points (third in BCCAA) for 12.4 points per game (5th), to go along with 7.2 rebounds per game (6th) and 2.2 assists (top-20).

2009-2010 was slated to be Dandeneau’s breakout season. Gone were program stalwarts like Nazareno and Wallace, but she was surrounded by veterans Jennifer Clyne and Christine Kennedy, as well as a rookie class that included Mercedes VanKoughnett, Emily Kaehn, and Jennifer Bruce.

In the first half the year, she was as advertised. Midway through the season, Dandeneau was leading the BCCAA with 18.3 points per game and the TWolves were sitting first in the conference.

On January 23, 2010, disaster struck.

On a two-on-one break, she attempted a layup, was pushed, and landed awkwardly on her leg. Displaying her signature toughness, Dandeneau rehabbed her knee and returned, albeit in a limited capacity, for the final two games of the season.

In a practice preparing for the upcoming BCCAA playoffs, she crumpled to the floor in devastating pain.

The injury was revealed to be a complete ACL tear, MCL tear, meniscus, and a fracture of the medial femoral condyle.

“Kady was so important and so effective for us because of her physical strength, high basketball IQ, and fierce competitiveness. She really could dominate from anywhere,” said longtime teammate Mercedes VanKoughnett.

“If defenders tried to take away the drive, she would make a three. Her versatility was really unmatched. She could score from any position, and she could defend 1 through 5. It set her apart from most every player in the league.”

With their fiery star sidelined, the Timberwolves would lose in the conference playoff tournament. Dandeneau finished the season averaging 16.2 points per game, leading the team and placing third in the conference.

The Timberwolves embarked on the 2010-2011 season without Dandeneau, as she worked diligently to rehabilitate a career-altering injury.

UNBC went 13-5 without her, even earning a BCCAA bronze medal.

Dandeneau made her much-anticipated return to the court for the 2011-2012 season; a year that would mark UNBC’s final run in the collegiate ranks before moving up to the CIS.

The Timberwolves would go 15-1, galvanized by her return, securing first place in the standings heading into the playoffs.

She would score 10.4 points per game, which was second on the team and top-20 in the conference.

In the playoffs, the Timberwolves returned to the top of the mountain, topping the VIU Mariners 62-53 in the provincial final.

At the CCAA National Championships, Dandeneau put a stamp on her incredible comeback, earning All-Star status at the tournament.

In 2012-2013, UNBC made the leap to CIS, to compete with the biggest universities in the country.

The T-Wolves went 8-14 in their inaugural season, as Dandeneau’s limited minutes and availability resulted in 9.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.

In the years after Kady moved on from UNBC, she was eligible to compete in wheelchair basketball.

Dandeneau has represented Canada and competed at multiple World Championships, won gold and silver at the ParaPan Am Games, and led Canada to its best.

In the gold medal game at the 2019 ParaPan Ams, she became the first wheelchair basketball athlete in Canadian history to record a triple-double after a thrilling 67-64 victory over the United States.

Dandeneau concluded her career in Green and Gold with 983 points and 407 rebounds, both good for second in program history, as well as 147 assists (7th).

No one was tougher. No one was more resilient. No one wanted to win quite as badly.

Today, Kady Dandeneau takes her rightful place in the UNBC Timberwolves Wall of Honour.

Congrats, Kady. We could not be more proud.

READ: https://t.co/Ts1m1wLprs pic.twitter.com/jsTmSPkGiC

— UNBC Timberwolves (@UNBCATHLETICS) July 21, 2025

The post Kady Dandeneau takes her place on UNBC Timberwolves Wall of Honour appeared first on My Prince George Now.

This post was originally published on My Prince George Now

The B.C. Highway Patrol has boosted its presence in the region this week for what it calls “influx week,” ahead of the 26th annual Shambhala Music Festival. 

The festival, held at Salmo River Ranch southeast of Salmo, draws more than 22,000 people annually for its three‑day run, which this year takes place July 25–28. 

During influx week, the B.C. Highway Patrol is running a zero‑tolerance enforcement campaign focused on speeding, distracted and impaired driving. 

“The week prior to Shambhala, as everyone’s coming in, is a zero‑tolerance week, meaning anything we find, someone’s going to get a ticket for. It’s a very high‑visibility police enforcement campaign designed to educate people to do the right thing,” said Nelson Highway Patrol officer Vince LeBlanc. 

This could mean a violation ticket or a warning, but LeBlanc emphasised officers will show zero mercy in the days leading up to the festival. 

“There’s 22,000 people coming to Shambhala. That’s more than the population of many communities in our region. That means a lot of extra cars on the road – plus all the other tourists in the area. We will be doing check‑stops for impaired driving, seat‑belt infractions, cell‑phone use – that sort of thing.” 

Aggressive driving 

In 2024, influx week led to one impaired driver being removed from the roads and more than 400 tickets issued – 31 of them for excessive speeding and aggressive driving. 

LeBlanc said high‑risk driving is a major priority this week, noting that across Canada, the majority of collisions are linked to aggressive driving behaviours. 

“The major causes of fatalities across Canada are aggressive driving: speeding, crossing double solids, impaired and distracted driving and we’ll be watching for all of that.” 

During influx week, the Highway Patrol typically sees the most aggressive‑driving incidents on major highway routes.  

As a result, motorists will notice increased officer presence this week on Highway 3 at the Bombi  Pass, Kootenay Pass and Paulson Summit as officers work to keep roadways safe. 

“Those are generally where we find our biggest offenders, especially aggressive driving. If you’re driving those routes, be cautious. You never know who’s beside you or what they’re going to do.” 

Additional resources are being brought in to assist during influx week and the days after the festival. 

In the week leading up to the event, LeBlanc said four motorcycle officers have been deployed from across the province, alongside K‑9 teams. 

“This bolsters our presence and increases enforcement – not just looking for speeders, but also for travelling criminals and other threats.” 

Post-festival check-stop 

During the festival, patrols will remain active near the festival grounds – but enforcement will intensify significantly in the days after, with check‑stops targeting vehicles leaving the grounds. 

LeBlanc said the same check-stop van from Vancouver, used in previous years, is set to return once again. 

Last year, officers conducted 70 standard field‑sobriety tests and 199 mandatory alcohol screenings during two days of eight-hour check‑stops. 

A total of 39 people received 24‑hour driving suspensions due to drugs, 19 of whom were referred for Drug Recognition Expert evaluations and performed poorly – resulting in Criminal Code charges. 

Motorists leaving the festival on Monday and Tuesday are warned to expect significant delays. 

These check‑stops have historically generated controversy due to the high volume of festival traffic – creating lineups in both directions on Highway 3 as vehicles wait to be screened and proceed. 

LeBlanc explained the process can be lengthy and asked motorists to be patient and plan accordingly. 

“Try to think of a different route to get where you want to go. It’s going to take a long time to get through that check‑stop, just based on the sheer volume of cars.” 

He added that it isn’t the processing time that’s long –  it’s the number of vehicles needing processing. 

“Every single car takes a minute of an officer’s time. That’s a lot of cars, over 22,000 people, so  it takes a long time.” 

LeBlanc reiterated his message to non-festivalgoers driving in the area: if you can take an alternate route, do so. 

“Go a different route – even if that means heading south into the U.S. and popping over –  that’s a better choice. Avoid that stretch of highway; it’s going to be slow. I wish there was a better way, but it’s one‑car, one‑driver at a time, and it’s for everyone’s safety.” 

The Highway Patrol has been conducting post‑Shambhala check‑stops since 2014, with LeBlanc noting that ever since, Shambhala‑related highway fatalities have nearly dropped to zero. 

“So if you choose to indulge at the festival and consume substances that impair your judgment, wait 24 hours before you drive.” 

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.

The post B.C. Highway Patrol launches zero-tolerance crackdown ahead of Shambhala appeared first on My Nelson Now.

This post was originally published on My Nelson Now

From pools to the beach, water safety should be top of mind this week as the Lifesaving Society B.C. branch embraces this year’s National Drowning Prevention Week theme: “Safer Together.” 

National Drowning Prevention Week runs from July 20–26, 2025.  

Held annually during the third week of July – the busiest time of year for water recreation – the campaign promotes water safety and builds community engagement. 

“This week focuses on some key messages to keep Canadians safe because we recognize that not everybody necessarily knows the dangers of drowning,” said Kimiko Hirakida, Programs Director with the Lifesaving Society. 

Drowning remains the third leading cause of unintentional death in Canada, claiming the lives of more than 450 Canadians each year. 

It is also the second leading cause of death in children, and the third leading cause for adults. 

Hirakida noted that nearly 80 per cent of drowning victims are male. 

Historically, males aged 18 to 26 were considered the highest-risk demographic, but Hirakida said this has expanded to include males up to age 50. 

“Seventy-eight per cent of drownings are male, and that is likely because they’re not necessarily making wise choices, or they think their abilities are stronger than they are. We are seeing a lot of fatal drownings in males aged 50 to 59 who are out fishing, on their boats or near rivers,” she explained. 

Safer Together 

This year’s National Drowning Prevention Week theme – “Safer Together” – is a reminder that water safety is a shared responsibility. 

“Safer Together means you should always swim with a buddy, and that we’re all accountable to each other to keep everyone safe in, on and around the water,” said Hirakida. 

“If you see something, you need to say something. If you see somebody approaching dangerous water, or people about to take out a boat without wearing life-jackets, say something.” 

She also emphasized the importance of undistracted, constant supervision of children or weak swimmers near any body of water. 

“This means you’re not taking pictures, you’re not preparing a snack, you’re not getting a juice box ready – your only job should be to have your eyes on the water. While it may be tedious to constantly scan the water, drowning can happen in seconds, in very little water.” 

Knowing the type of waterbody you’re in is also crucial, she added, noting that swimming in a pool is not the same as swimming in open water. 

“While you might be able to swim in a pool with lane lines at the bottom and ropes to grab onto, it’s not the same as swimming in open water. There’s always that confusion ‘I’m a really great pool swimmer’ – but that doesn’t always translate to open water.” 

Life-jackets save lives 

Hirakida also reiterated the importance, and legal requirement, of wearing a life-jacket on any watercraft, including kayaks, canoes and paddle boards. 

Some companies have started offering more convenient safety solutions, such as inflatable waist packs with ripcords or low-profile vests with CO2 cartridges. 

“You would never get in your car and start driving without clicking on your seatbelt. So why would you get on a watercraft without putting on your life-jacket?” 

Event at Christina Lake 

From July 20 to 22, the Lifesaving Society will host its WaterWise booth at Christina Lake. 

The Society’s WaterWise team will be on-site offering opportunities to learn about water safety, equipment, and general education. 

“They’ll also provide information on different types of open water safety – what you need to consider, what clothing is best, and what equipment you could use on boats. The goal is to help people recreating around the lake make more informed decisions around the water,” said Hirakida. 

Nearly 70 per cent of drowning victims never intended to enter the water, and most were within 15 metres of safety.  

Hirakida stressed that while these deaths are tragic, they are almost always preventable.