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Residents of 11^th and 12^th Streets near Grand Forks Secondary School have had enough, according to Graham Frost, as he takes their concerns to the City of Grand Forks at yesterday’s council meeting.

Frost said since the school removed the safe smoking area from school grounds, students have taken it to the streets, with residents noting an increase in unsavoury behaviour.

“The result was that group of students has moved just 50 feet, 100 feet, down the alley in behind and into the immediate area of the residence.” said Frost.

“There is drug use back there, there is drinking back there. We have found alcohol bottles. My kids have picked up stuff. We have the vandalism to some of the residents over there.”

“This just past Friday, we saw a student go out of their way to do something to a house.”

Frist said the youth have gone as far as intimidating residents and forcing security cameras to be installed for safety.

Frost commended the school and police for taking steps to be proactive, however, is calling for a unified approach from more local authorities.

“The staff has tried to get out there on occasion, but it’s difficult for them to get out there exactly at the times that they’re happening,” said Frost.

“The police have been requested to come by, I know that they have done some drive-throughs in the alley there, asking students to disperse from the area and they’ll move away for a short time, then they come right back within the same day, sometimes within a couple of days.”

“We do appreciate what everyone else has done and attempt to try and resolve this, but it is continuing.”

Councillor Neil Krog called for the issue to be put back onto the School District.

“I find these actions unconscionable and the school district, it’s their issue. It’s their problem. Either put it back on school property or control it.”

Grand Forks RCMP Sgt Darryl Peppler sympathized with residents and the school board, stating an approach together would see better outcomes.

“Anyone over the age of 12 can be arrested if we catch them in possession of certain drugs in certain amounts.” said Peppler.

Council voted in favour of a motion to write an officially letter to the School District showing their displeasure with the issues of loitering in alleys near the school and request a plan to remedy these concerns before school returns in the fall.

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The Municipal Well Redevelopment Project in the South Cariboo has been completed.

On Friday the District of 100 Mile House announced that this critical initiative, that began in February 2025, involved the full redevelopment of Wells #4, #5, and #6 to enhance the reliability and sustainability of the community’s water supply.

Following the completion and monitoring of Well #5, the redevelopment work on Wells 4 and 6 proceeded as planned and have been finalized.

The District said all three Wells are fully operational and functioning at their capacity ensuring a stable and secure water supply going forward.

Now that the project is complete, the District has returned to standard water restrictions that will remain in effect until further notice.

Mayor of 100 Mile House, Maureen Pinkney said “Thanks to these upgrades, our water system is more reliable and better prepared to meet current demand.”

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Prince George City Council gave the green light for the CN Centre’s 30th anniversary funding.

During last night’s (Monday) meeting, Council highlighted it potentially becoming a joint event between the anniversary, International Student Welcome, and Thank You PG.

While Council was on board with the recommendation, both Councillors Ron Polillo and Tim Bennett had questions and a concern of the cost and ask of $15,000 from the Council Contingency Fund.

“When we talked about this when the motion was, I was fully supportive of it. I did say at that time not to have an excessive budget.” said Polillo

“This is a little more than I thought it would be to be quite honest with you. $15,000 is significant.”

Director of Civic Facilities and Events Andy Beesley noted the ask is up to $15,000, meaning the City may not spend that full amount.

He added they’re applying for more grants to further reduce costs for the City.

The $15,000 would also be added to the budget for the Thank You PG event of around $20,000.

Beesley said they’re still consulting with the organizations apart of the International Students Welcome to determine if they will be part of it.

The free event is scheduled for September 28th.

Other items discussed at the meeting included a number of annual reports, as well as the next step for the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games bid.

The full agenda for Monday’s meeting can be found here.

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Not long after leaving the junior hockey ranks, Tristen Nielsen and Harry Mahesh have climbed the top of the American Hockey League mountain top.

Nielsen, a veteran forward from Fort St. John and Mahesh, an alum of the Vanderhoof Minor Hockey system helped the Abbotsford Canucks claim their first Calder Cup in franchise history on Monday night.

Abbotsford claimed game six of the championship series on the road against the Charlotte Checkers at the Bojangles Coliseum in the North Carolina capital, gutting out a 3-2 result in front of 8,324 fans.

KINGS OF QUEEN CITY pic.twitter.com/UmgVGMhzpI

— X – Abbotsford Canucks (@abbycanucks) June 24, 2025

John Leonard and Jack Devine gave the Checkers a 2-0 edge in the first 13 minutes putting the Canucks on their heels early.

Sammy Blais cut the deficit in half prior to the first intermission on the power-play beating Charlotte goalie Kappo Kahkonen.

Abbotsford continued its momentum in the second period with a pair of goals from Danila Klimovich and Linus Klassen, putting the Vancouver Canucks top farm team in the driver’s sear.

The Checkers pushed in the third outshooting the Canucks 11-7 but were unable to solve playoff MVP Arturs Silovs, who made 28 saves in the victory.

Nielsen, who played in the Western Hockey League for the Calgary Hitmen and Vancouver Giants, finished the 2025 AHL Playoffs with nine points in 24 games to go along with 38 penalty minutes.

Mahesh earned his first Calder Cup ring after spending time with the Powell River Kings (BCHL), Winnipeg Freeze (MJHL) and the Toronto Maple Leafs over the previous three seasons.

Former Prince George Cougars netminder Ty Young was on the Abbotsford playoff roster but did not see any action.

In addition, former Cats equipment manager Chico Dhanjal is also on the Abbotsford staff as its head equipment guy.

Lastly, former Spruce King Jujhar Khaira tallied eight points in 24 postseason contests for the AHL Canucks. The 30-year-old is also a veteran of over 330 NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild.

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Not long after leaving the junior hockey ranks, Tristen Nielsen and Harry Mahesh have climbed the top of the American Hockey League mountain top.

Nielsen, a veteran forward from Fort St. John and Mahesh, an alum of the Vanderhoof Minor Hockey system helped the Abbotsford Canucks claim their first Calder Cup in franchise history on Monday night.

Abbotsford claimed game six of the championship series on the road against the Charlotte Checkers at the Bojangles Coliseum in the North Carolina capital, gutting out a 3-2 result in front of 8,324 fans.

KINGS OF QUEEN CITY pic.twitter.com/UmgVGMhzpI

— X – Abbotsford Canucks (@abbycanucks) June 24, 2025

John Leonard and Jack Devine gave the Checkers a 2-0 edge in the first 13 minutes putting the Canucks on their heels early.

Sammy Blais cut the deficit in half prior to the first intermission on the power-play beating Charlotte goalie Kappo Kahkonen.

Abbotsford continued its momentum in the second period with a pair of goals from Danila Klimovich and Linus Klassen, putting the Vancouver Canucks top farm team in the driver’s sear.

The Checkers pushed in the third outshooting the Canucks 11-7 but were unable to solve playoff MVP Arturs Silovs, who made 28 saves in the victory.

Nielsen, who played in the Western Hockey League for the Calgary Hitmen and Vancouver Giants, finished the 2025 AHL Playoffs with nine points in 24 games to go along with 38 penalty minutes.

Mahesh earned his first Calder Cup ring after spending time with the Powell River Kings (BCHL), Winnipeg Freeze (MJHL) and the Toronto Maple Leafs over the previous three seasons.

Former Prince George Cougars netminder Ty Young was on the Abbotsford playoff roster but did not see any action.

In addition, former Cats equipment manager Chico Dhanjal is also on the Abbotsford staff as its head equipment guy.

Lastly, former Spruce King Jujhar Khaira tallied eight points in 24 postseason contests for the AHL Canucks. The 30-year-old is also a veteran of over 330 NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild.

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Sports by Hartley Tuesday, June 24th, 2025

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

Hockey:

The Prince George Cougars will play four pre-season games, including one in Quesnel on Saturday, September 13th (at 5 PM) against the Kamloops Blazers.

The Cougars also face the Blazers in an exhibition September 12th in Kamloops.

The other two pre-season games will be held in Hinton September 5th and 7th against the Edmonton Oil Kings.

The Cougars full regular season schedule will be released today (Tuesday).

PG opens the 2025-26 campaign at home against Portland September 19th and 20th.

Is it August yet?

Today, the Western Hockey League announced the complete schedule for the 2025 WHL Preseason, beginning Sunday, August 31!

| https://t.co/anmn10eDL8 pic.twitter.com/tz8IQDc3rn

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) June 23, 2025

#

The 2025 NHL draft will be held this week in Los Angeles.

The first round goes on Friday (4 p.m. PT) with rounds 2-7 on Saturday (9 a.m.).

Josh Ravensbergen of the P.G. Cougars is the top-ranked North American goalie in the draft.

Nothing fills an appetite quite like a Joshua Ravensbergen selection at the 2025 NHL Draft. @PGCougars | #NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/kzhqdZhCoZ

— Western Hockey League (@TheWHL) June 20, 2025

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The City of Nanaimo will look at creating a bylaw banning the sale of invasive plants. The city’s governance and priorities committee voted to have a draft bylaw created at its June 23 meeting. 

Hunter Jarratt, an ecological restoration consultant, presented to the committee advocating for the change. He says despite the city’s efforts to control invasive species; they are readily available for purchase around the city. 

“Municipalities across the province do have the fundamental power to protect communities from further harm. Taking proactive action by banning the sale of invasive species will save the municipality future time, money and resources,” Jarratt says. “This is largely a non-partisan issue as invasive species impact us all.” 

The committee was presented with two options – to look at creating a bylaw or conduct a public awareness campaign on native and invasive species. Councillor Hilary Eastmure moved both options after asking Jarratt what he believes the impact of both could be. 

He says there are already public awareness campaigns and they only work if people pay attention. 

“It puts the onus on the consumer, rather than the industry which I feel is often very predatory,” he says, pointing out invasive plants are often advertised for their positive traits, rather than harmful ones. “It is greenwashing to the highest extent and some, like English Ivy, they are advertised as tropical indoor plants but people fully plant them outside so awareness campaigns are great, education is always great, but this is always the big piece that is missing – the elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk about.” 

City council will vote on the committee’s recommendation before work moves forward. 

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A school bake sale raised over $500 for MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre.

Earlier this month, students from Miss Stuckey’s Grade one class at Cumberland Community School ran a bake sale to raise money for the Wildlife Centre.

Administrative Assistant for Island Health and parent of one of the students Megan Bleay says the idea of the sale came as the class was getting ready for a field trip to MARS.

“The class had done a lot of research leading up to this trip, and then one of the moms suggested doing a bake sale and see if we can raise money to donate to MARS when they go on their field trip,” said Bleay.

“Enough of us agreed that we were able to do it.”

Bleay says a spreadsheet was created where people put down what they were baking and how many pieces would be involved, with the parents of the students deciding to price the baked goods at $1.

The kids put up posters across the school advertising the bake sale while the parents took time to bake the goods needed.

She says the sale took place on June 11 at both school recesses, where they raised $505.15 in one hour.

“It was complete chaos, word got out about this throughout the school from Kindergarten to Grade 9 and everyone came with money,” said Bleay.

“We actually sold out before the end of the second recess.”

She says reaching that amount in an hour is mind-blowing, adding that the kids should be proud of themselves for this accomplishment. She also says without the parents, this accomplishment wouldn’t of been made.

The donation was presented to MARS on June 13 during the school trip.

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Downtown Prince George is reminding residents of the free Event Bike Valet service throughout the summer.

The service was introduced at the start of June, and was well received at the first event, with five others lined up.

For events at Canada Games Plaza and Two Rivers Gallery, the service will be in the parking lot behind the Coast Inn of the North.

Other downtown events will have it in the City parking lot at Second Avenue and Quebec Street at the PG Farmers’ Market entrance.

In partnership with the Prince George RCMP, the valet site will also feature Garage 529, a bike registration and theft prevention program.

The remaining events include:

• Community Art Days, June 11-12, Two Rivers Gallery
• Downtown Summerfest, July 19, Veteran’s Plaza
• Downtown Markets, August 2, Multiple locations downtown
• PG Public Library’s Touch a Truck Event, August 22, Canada Games Plaza
• PG Farmer’s Market Corn Festival, August 30, Third Avenue

More information can be found on Downtown Prince George’s website here.

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More jail time awaits a 25-year-old woman after pleading guilty to manslaughter according to the BC Prosecution Service.

Danika Payou was sentenced on June 9th in Prince George court after entering the plea in August of 2024.

It’s in relation to a February 2023 homicide at the Sunrise Valley Mobile Home Park on Lansdowne Road, where Payou was originally charged with second-degree murder.

The court credited her with 1,269 days’ time served while in pre-sentence custody, stating Payou now has 556 days of jail left to serve.

The prosecution service noted the court also placed a lifetime weapons ban on her, which includes, firearms, crossbow, restricted weapons, firearm parts, ammunition and explosive substances.

During the initial police investigation, the Prince George RCMP located a female residence deceased and the file was handed off to the Serious Crimes Unit.

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Property taxes in Nelson are due on Tuesday, July 2. 

To avoid a 10 per cent penalty fee, payment must be made on time, or the fee will be automatically applied. 

The City approved an 8.1 per cent property tax increase for 2025 in April when it adopted its five-year financial plan. 

For the average home valued at $680,000, the increase would equate to an extra $165 this year.  

Eligible homeowners are also encouraged to ensure they’ve applied for their homeowner grant, which is a provincial subsidy that reduces the amount of property tax paid for principal residences. 

All unpaid taxes and unclaimed homeowner grant amounts after July 2 will have the penalty applied automatically. 

Homeowner grants can be claimed online or over the phone.  For most areas in the province, the grant amount is $770.

To qualify for the grant, property owners must:

• Be the registered owner of the residence (or a spouse or relative of the deceased owner)
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
• Live in B.C.
• Occupy the residence as your principal residence

• The assessed or partitioned value of your property does not exceed the grant threshold

Tax payments can be made through your personal banking institution, mailed cheque to City Hall, dropped off at City Hall’s drop box beside the front door, online, or in person. 

In-person payments and payments made through the drop box must be done before 4:30 p.m. on July 2. 

More information on how to pay and apply for the homeowner grant can be found here. 

Something going on in your part of the Kootenays you think people should know about? Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].

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The Prince George RCMP is investigating a Friday assault that took place shortly before 7pm on the 1900 block of Strathcona Avenue.

Police say an altercation occurred when a large group of youth approached and attacked a man, who was at one point struck in the head by a machete.

“Thankfully, witnesses in the area have been incredibly cooperative with our investigation and from this we know there were three assailants.” said Corporal Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer.

“One suspect, a 15-year-old youth, was arrested shortly after the assault occurred and will remain in-custody until his next court appearance. We are still looking for the other two suspects and are asking that if anyone has any information on who they are or where they are now, they contact the Prince George RCMP’s non-emergency line with that information,” 

The man received numerous non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital by Emergency Health Services.

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Property taxes in Trail and Castlegar are due on July 2. 

To avoid a 10 per cent penalty fee, property owners should ensure the payment is made on time or the fee will be automatically applied. 

Castlegar 

The City of Castlegar approved a 7.27 per cent tax increase for residential properties this year, and a 7.54 per cent increase for business and light industrial properties. 

Tax notices were mailed on May 13. Those who have yet to receive a notice should contact City Hall at 250-365-7227 or [email protected] for a copy.    

Payment can be made in the following ways: 

• In person or online through your financial institution 

• Deposit a cheque in the drop box at City Hall 

• Mail a cheque to City Hall 

• Cash, cheque, or debit at City Hall 

• Online via credit card 

Eligible property owners should also make sure they’ve applied for their homeowner grant, which is a provincial subsidy that reduces the amount of property tax paid for principal residences. 

For most areas in the province, the grant amount is $770. 

To qualify for the grant, property owners must: 

• Be the registered owner of the residence (or a spouse or relative of the deceased owner) 

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada 

• Live in B.C. 

• Occupy the residence as your principal residence 

• The assessed or partitioned value of your property does not exceed the grant threshold 

Applications must be submitted by July 2 to ensure that the reduction is reflected on their account. 

Trail 

In Trail, a 20 per cent increase was approved for residential ratepayers.  

A 10 per cent penalty will be automatically applied to late payments and unclaimed homeowner grants after the deadline. 

Payments can be made using online banking or in person at City Hall via cash, cheque, debit, or credit. In-person payments at City Hall must be made by 3:30 p.m. on July 2. 

More information on the City of Trail’s 2024 property taxes can be found here. 

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The District of Sparwood is submitting a grant application to the Union of BC Municipalities Strategic Priorities Fund for up to $7 million.

If successful the money would go towards the waste water treatment plant project.

The district has been able to shore up some grant funding for the project.

The federal government is supplying $2,575,000 and the provincial government giving $5,856,300.

The district recently passed an alternative approval process and will be borrowing the funds.

The total project cost is expected to be $17 million with a $2 million contingency.

“This is the first time the district of Sparwood has had to borrow any substantial amount of money,” Mayor David Wilks said.

“We’re getting to a point now where our infrastructure needs to be replaced or upgraded for sure.”

The project is currently posted for tender but has not yet been awarded.

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Cranbrook’s Katie Clark is representing Canada in the World Rowing Cup Circuit in the women’s single sculls.

Clark recently competed in the first stage of the international campaign in the Varese Italy World Rowing Cup, coming in fourth in the women’s single sculls Final A.

Clark will now move on to Lucerne, Switzerland for the next competition.

She says it’s been great to get back into rowing after rehabbing an injury through the winter.

“I’m really excited for this opportunity. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but wasn’t sure it was going to happen this year, given my knee surgery in December,” she said.

“However, with hard work, it’s become a reality. I feel like this Olympic cycle is about building on performances and setting the foundation, and this is an awesome opportunity for me to do that.”

Clark is training for a shot at the 2028 LA Olympics.

The Lucerne World Rowing Cup is scheduled for June 27-29.

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Try not to lose your mind, as the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is in the house tonight, making sure everybody just has a good time with over $213,000 in grants to help local organizations keep party rocking all summer long.

Grants from the CBT will go to 17 groups across the Columbia Basin to deliver meaningful, inclusive celebrations through summer.

“Summer festivals are something we all look forward to each year; what better way is there to celebrate our amazing communities than being part of an outdoor music or arts fest,” said Christine Nichol, CBT Delivery of Benefits Manager.

“Along with showcasing our rich and diverse arts and culture scene, these events are critical contributors to our local economies. By supporting the work of presenters, artists, non-profits and volunteers, we help strengthen the resilience and vibrancy of our communities.”

The money will be used to host and improve music, arts and cultural festivals around the region.

“These events are cherished traditions that bring people together and contribute to what makes Basin communities vibrant, welcoming and full of spirit,” said CBT officials.

“The program reflects the Trust’s commitment to helping communities remain vibrant and creative, particularly as the arts sector adapts to recent changes in available funding. This support helps ensure residents continue to have access to cultural experiences that build community connection and wellbeing.”

The grants were funded by the CBT and delivered by the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council (WKRAC).

Details about a few of the 17 organizations‘ events can be found below:

Steamboat Mountain Music Festival – Edgewater ($15,000)

The Steamboat Mountain Music Festival Society will use its grant to host the festival at the Edgewater Community Hall in July.

CBT officials say the annual festival draws in music lovers from across the Columbia Valley.

“Steamboat Mountain Music Festival has become a tradition for our little town, showcasing local and regional artists and building community spirit,” said Anne Jardine, Steamboat Mountain Music Festival Society Board Member.

“Year after year, local business sponsors and volunteers return to make this event a success. Festivals like this help deepen community connections and reveal the character of the people who live here. But funding remains a perennial challenge. We strive to keep admission affordable for local families, and support like this makes all the difference.”

LUNA Fest – Revelstoke ($15,000)

LUNA Fest, a nighttime celebration of arts, has been a September staple since its inception in 2017.

“LUNA gives residents a chance to come together and celebrate creativity and imagination,” said Robyn Goldsmith, Arts Revelstoke Executive Director.

“It’s a cornerstone of our community calendar and a source of pride for residents. We offer a free, outdoor festival – so we rely heavily on grants, sponsorships and public donations. Artist fees have risen in recent years, and this support helps ensure we can continue offering fair compensation while delivering an outstanding experience.”

Wapiti Music Festival – Fernie ($12,000)

Fernie’s iconic August music festival will have Annex Park bumping tunes all weekend long, thanks to backing from the CBT.

“Festivals provide an opportunity for families and friends to share in a cultural experience and for Basin performers to showcase their talents,” said Kevin McIssac, Wapiti Music Festival Society Director.

“Wapiti is a music and culture gathering that draws people from across the Basin and beyond, and both our event costs and our audiences contribute to the local economy. Rising costs for artists, insurance, permits, and essential infrastructure—like tents, fencing and lighting—make it increasingly difficult for small festivals like ours. We’re working hard to keep Wapiti affordable for families.”

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The Cranbrook Public Library is inviting residents to celebrate its 100th anniversary of operating in the city.

Community members of all ages are invited to the event, commemorating a century of knowledge, connection, and growth.

“We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone,” said Ursula Brigl, Chief Librarian.

“The Cranbrook Public Library opened its doors on this exact date 100 years ago on July 4th, 1925, and since then, we have been a cornerstone of our community, fostering literacy, providing access to information, and serving as a hub for learning and connection.”

Library officials say staff have been working on a variety of historical displays to show attendees the library’s history and its impact on Cranbrook.

Photos of previous library locations, staff, volunteers, patrons and library events will also be on display.

The celebration will feature science activities for kids, a photo booth with props, a giant birthday card, a scavenger hunt, free gifts, draws and refreshments.

“There will also be an opportunity to show off your library support by purchasing a variety of fun items like Limited Edition Cranbrook Public Library reading glasses and socks,” said Library staff.

“Plus, water bottles, travel mugs, tote bags and a commemorative book about the history of the library written by Cranbrook’s own Mike Selby.”

The Library will also celebrate its 100th year with limited edition gold library cards.

The celebration will happen at the Cranbrook Public Library on Friday, July 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

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BC Transit recognized five individuals as its latest Transit SuperStars, including one in Prince George.

HandyDART Dispatcher Monica Glennen won the annual Mike Docherty Lifetime Achievement Award.

According to BC Transit, Glennen’s spent 27 years working with handyDART customers in PG, first as a driver and then a Dispatcher.

They added she will be retiring in September.

The winners were recently recognized and presented with plaques at an awards dinner during BC Transit’s annual workshop in Victoria.

More information, along with other award recipients, can be found on BC Transit’s website here.

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Vanderhoof is under a severe thunderstorm watch.

According to Environment Canada, conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.

The forecast for this evening calls for a 60% chance of showers or thundershowers and a low of nine degrees.

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Prince George is under a severe thunderstorm watch.

According to Environment Canada, conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.

The forecast for this evening calls for a 60% chance of showers or thundershowers and a low of nine degrees.

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The Cowichan District Hospital Foundation (CDHF) has received a generous donation from Peninsula Co-op  

One hundred thousand dollars was donated by Peninsula Co-op to help put CDH closer to their goal, and chief executive officer Cory Gillon says they’re happy to provide the donation because of the significance the Cowichan Valley plays on so many people. 

“We’re embedded deeply in the communities, and this shows how heavily embedded the community is in making sure everyone is taken care of,” he says. “It wasn’t the first time we’ve had to work with the foundation, but we felt this was a great opportunity for us to be part of.” 

According to Gillon, Peninsula Co-op sets aside approximately $600,000 for the community and says putting the money towards healthcare wasn’t even a debate since it helps so many people right across the region. 

CDH chief of staff Dr. Graham Blackburn says the donation is going to be well received by the foundation, and this will play an important part in making sure healthcare in the Cowichan Valley is top-notch. 

“We have a huge building with tons of equipment needed,” he says. “The foundation is playing a key role in helping us get all we need and bringing the community together.” 

With the cost of the new hospital being over $1.4 billion, Gillon says all donations are appreciated and will help boost the level of medical care to new heights in the Cowichan Valley. 

All donations are being matched by Jim Pattison up to $5 million, and CDHF executive director Naomi Low says they’re getting close to their goal. 

“We’re halfway through the match campaign,” she says. “We have a year and a half to raise the other half.” 

The new hospital is slated to open in 2027. 

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It was a good weekend for BC Wildfire crews working on the Martin Lake area fire in the Chilcotin.

Fire Information Officer Jessica Mack said over the last few days they had received rain on this wildfire.

“And due to successful response efforts by both our personnel and resources in combination with some of the precipitation it is now classified as under control. What this means, at this stage suppression efforts have ensured that the wildfire will not spread beyond the current fire perimeter.”

Mack said today (June 23) ground crews will be working along the Northern and Southern flanks of the fire continuing to do mop up and patrol efforts 200 feet from the fire’s perimeter inwards of the fire.

“And we have heavy equipment that remains on site so that includes water tenders that are delivering water to help support with water delivery to the fire itself. And while we don’t expect the fire perimeter to grow due to the current conditions, and now being classified as under control, we do continue to expect that smoke will be visible from Highway 20 due to any unburnt fuel that is within the perimeter of the fire,” Mack added.

The precipitation that has been received is definitely welcomed and has provided some relief and allowed the the ability of firefighters and heavy equipment on site to be able to make some headway Mack said.

Today (June 23) at noon, the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre lifted the Evacuation Alert in the Martin Lake Area.

It had been originally issued on Monday June 16.

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A dangerous stunt performed by a person on a jet ski now has the RCMP investigating. 

Sunshine Coast RCMP became aware of a video online on June 15 of a man his jet ski approaching the overhang of the Queen of Coquitlam ferry and going underneath it while it was sailing. 

Cpl. Philip Atoui said going that close to the moving ferry was extremely dangerous and could have resulted in injury or death. 

“Risking your life for social media content is reckless and irresponsible, luckily no one was injured in this instance.” 

Police have reviewed the video but are unsure when exactly it took place or the location of it. 

Investigators are working together with B.C. Ferries and Transport Canada in the investigation which remains ongoing. 

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Sunshine Coast RCMP. 

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Two-tired to find your bike? Creston police may have picked it up as they recover approximately 30 abandoned bicycles around the community.

Many of which they say appear to have been stolen and later discarded.

If your bike has recently gone missing, there’s a chance it could be among the recovered collection.

“We encourage residents to contact the Town of Creston Bylaw Officer or the Creston RCMP to inquire about any lost or stolen bicycles. You may be reunited with your ride.” said the City of Creston.

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Nanaimo RCMP are searching for a man after an off-leash dog led to an altercation between owners. 

Police say a woman’s off-leash dog aggressively ran toward another dog on June 16 at the North Town Center Mall and a man kicked it to prevent his dog from getting hurt. 

“The woman tried to intervene, and the male pushed her to the ground,” reads a press release from RCMP. “The woman got up, facing the male and he struck her head with his head, causing her to crumple to the ground. Witnesses reported that the suspect then ran away, looking for his dog.”  

The incident happened around 7:30 p.m. and the release says witnesses stayed on the scene until police and ambulance arrived. 

Officers are looking to identify the man, who is described as a Caucasian male, aged 35 to 45 years, with short, dark hair and a stocky build. At the time of the assault, he was wearing a red shirt and tan shorts and walking with a medium-sized white dog with black spots. 

Police are asking anyone with information that can help to contact their non-emergency line. 

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The Prince George Cougars of the Western Hockey League unveiled their pre-season schedule today (June 25).

One of those games includes a stop in a Cariboo community.

On Saturday September 13^th, the Cougars will host the Kamloops Blazers at the West Fraser Centre in Quesnel.

The Cougars will be in Kamloops the night before, then both clubs will head north to wrap up this back to back series.

These same two teams played a pre-season game in Quesnel last season on September 14^th.

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The Resource Recovery Centre Transfer Station has been temporarily closed.

qathet Regional District crews are working on adjusting the Centre’s weight scales, on-site maintenance, and other upgrades to infrastructure to avoid overtime and extra costs.

Because of this work, the district is closing the Transfer station for the next couple days.

The district says you can use the Recycling Depot in the meantime.

The station is closed today, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

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A former Houston Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is returning to the role.

The district announced Gerald Pinchbeck will be filling the seat starting July 15th after previously being the Communications Manager for the Cariboo Regional District.

“His knowledge of our community, combined with his proven leadership and dedication to local government, makes him an excellent fit to help guide the District into the future,” said Mayor Shane Brienen.

Pinchbeck was the CAO from 2018 to 2021, leaving to take over as CAO for the District of Vanderhoof.

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Shaun Horcoff is going into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame.

The former Smokie who was born in Trail and grew up in Castlegar played 1008 regular season games in the NHL games with Edmonton, Dallas and Anaheim.

The 46-year-old put together career totals of 186 goals and 325 assists for 511 points. His best season was in 2005-06 with the Oilers with 22 goals and 51 assists for 73 points.

Horcoff also won two gold medals and one silver with Canada at the World Hockey Championships.

He also shared the BCHL’s most outstanding player award in 1996 after putting up 145 points in 58 games with Chilliwack.

Horcoff played four seasons at Michigan State University before turning pro as a fourth-round draft choice of the Oilers in 1998.

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The Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 60 years of service last week. Residents, members of the fire department and elected officials recognized the department’s history and accomplishments at an event on June 21. 

“I am honoured to serve our community as community fire chief of the Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department. I thank all our past and current firefighters for their unwavering commitment to serving those in need throughout our 60-year history,” says fire chief Ron Schildroth. “Most of our firefighters work full-time and so generously give their personal time to serve. Without them and the support of their families, we could not provide the level of service that we do. We’re proud to carry on the legacy of those who served before us and to give our best to the community we live in and appreciate being a part of.” 

 The fire department was formed in 1965 and Isaac Neen was elected its first chief. The first truck in its fleet was a 1952 ladder truck, purchased for $1,000.  

Since then, more than 100 people have served the community through volunteer firefighting, according to a news release from the Regional District of Nanaimo.  

There are currently 19 members, who practise every Wednesday. The department has a fleet of two fire engines, two fire tenders, one rescue truck and two command vehicles. 

“Congratulations to the Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Volunteer Fire Department and its members for 60 years of serving and protecting our community,” says Leanne Salter, electoral area F director. “Whether getting called to a structural fire, a motor vehicle accident or other incident, they show up with the same commitment to serving those in need at all hours of the day, every day of the year. My sincerest gratitude to every firefighter for their dedication and service to our community.”  

According to the news release, the fire department is actively recruiting new members. No experience is required and all training is provided. 

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A BC company will begin constructing Courtenay’s 6th Street Bridge this September.

The city has awarded a contract for bridge construction to Surespan Group, a Vancouver-based construction company that has been in service since 1977.

Crews will build a four-meter wide bridge that connects 6th Street to Simms Park to improve east-west connections, building an accessible crossing, increasing access to the downtown core, and linking cycling and walking paths.

City mayor Bob Wells says this is an exciting step for the project.

The city says during construction, details on any impacts to traffic and Simms Park closures will be shared to you in the coming months. While they expect traffic disruptions to take place on 6th Street, you will still get access to all the businesses in that area.

Construction starts this September and looks to finish in fall 2026.

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The Summit Lake wildfire, west of Fort Nelson, is no longer a fire of note according to the BC Wildfire Service.

It remains out of control at 81,349 hectares in size, and an evacuation alert still is in place from the Northern Rockies Regional District.

Today (Monday), crews will continue to prioritize securing the north and south sides of Highway 97.

Ground crews continue to patrol and mop up north from the highway up to the east flank to establish access.

In addition, crews will utilize drone maps to extinguish hot spots along the highway corridor.

Helicopters will continue to support ground crews with suppression efforts.

An incident management team, 29 firefighting personnel and 12 aviation aircraft have been assigned to the Fort Nelson Complex.

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A two-vehicle collision at Kubinec Road along Highway 3 has left a man dead and a woman seriously injured.

The crash occurred at approximately 6:15 p.m. on June 20, closing the highway for most of the night with no detours available.

Police say a 40-year-old man was located deceased in a dark coloured small car and a 49-year-old woman who had been driving a larger light coloured SUV was taken to Fernie Hospital.

The man was from Big Fork, Montana, and was travelling to Calgary to visit his girlfriend.

The woman was travelling from Okotoks, Alberta.

Police say they received witness information that a vehicle, similar to the one the woman was driving, was driving erratically near Blairmore, Alberta.

She was driving a grey 2023 GMC Yukon with Alberta licence plates.

Police are seeking any additional witness or dash camera evidence which may show or give light to the driving behaviour of either vehicle prior to the collision.

Anyone with information can contact the Elk Valley detachment at 250-425-6233.

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Fernie’s old fire hall is coming down as demolition gets underway this week, making way for a new five-storey residential/commercial building.

The project, led by Elk Valley Family Society and New Commons Development, will replace the unused fire hall with 44 new rental homes above space for businesses.

The new building will feature a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units, with at least 30 per cent of the units offered at below-market rates.

The structure will have over 3,000 square feet of commercial space, with 700 devoted to offices for the Elk Valley Family Society, and 45 parking spaces, including one level of underground parking.

Mayor Nic Milligan says this will be a significant step in addressing Fernie’s housing crisis.

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

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

The City-owned property at 692 3rd Avenue was the community’s fire hall until 2022, when the building was deemed unfit to serve the department.

Construction will begin once demolition wraps up, and Fernie officials expect the building to be finished by Fall 2027.

Traffic will be impacted in the following ways while construction is underway:

• 3rd Avenue between 6th and 7th Street will be converted into a one-way street for the duration of the project.
• 7th Street from 2nd to 3rd Avenue will be partially closed. The City says contractors will try to maintain two-way traffic where possible by removing some on-street parking.
• Alley access between 2nd and 3rd Avenue and 6th and 7th Streets will be restricted at times.
• Full closures of 7th Street and 3rd Avenue will occur for crane operations. The City says they will give advance notice.
• Initial work will involve relocating the fire hydrant and water/sewer tie-ins, which could result in short-term road closures and service interruptions.

“In addition, the City-owned lot at 902 2nd Avenue will be used to support the project through construction, with the site fenced for contractor parking, material storage, and prefabrication activities,” said City staff.

“A temporary 4-way stop is in place to support traffic flow.”

Fernie has also backed the project through multiple assists.

“The City of Fernie is supporting this project with a long-term lease of this City-owned land, use of 902 2nd Avenue during construction, a permissive tax exemption, access to affordable housing reserve funds, and priority processing of the required permits. We’re excited to see the project come to life and thank residents for their patience during construction,” said City officials.

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Ferry users hoping to go to either Vancouver Island or the Lower Mainland tomorrow night will have to use Departure Bay. 

Four sailings on B.C. Ferries Duke Point – Tsawwassen route have been cancelled Tuesday, June 24, for maintenance at the Duke Point terminal. 

Both the 8:15 p.m. and the 10:45 p.m. ferries leaving both terminals have been cancelled, leaving the 5:45 p.m. sailing as the last of the night. 

Customers with reservations on the cancelled sailings will be contacted by B.C. Ferries Customer Service Centre about a revised sailing time. 

Customers are reminded of other sailings available on the Departure Bay – Horseshoe Bay route. 

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Update Monday night: June 23

The thunderstorm watch for P.G. has ended.

Earlier story:

Prince George is under a severe thunderstorm watch.

According to Environment Canada, conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.

The forecast for this evening calls for a 60% chance of showers or thundershowers and a low of nine degrees.

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Even though it is officially summer, Prince George Cougar fans can start looking forward to next season.

The Western Hockey League unveiled its pre-season schedule today (Monday).

PG begins exhibition play with a pair of games in Hinton September 5th and 7th against the Edmonton Oil Kings.

The Cougars then wrap up the pre-season slate with a double header against the Kamloops Blazers which kicks off September 12th at Sandman Centre and then concludes the following night (September 13) in Quesnel at West Fraser Centre.

The full regular season schedule will be released tomorrow (Tuesday). PG opens the 2025-26 campaign at home against Portland September 19th and 20th.

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Services at the Lakes District Hospital Emergency Department are being interrupted today (Monday) due to staffing shortages.

According to Northern Health, it started at 8:00 this morning and is expected to end at 8:00 tonight.

Anyone experiencing life threatening emergencies like chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding is asked to call 9-1-1.

For non-urgent care, you can contact your primary care provider, the Northern Health Virtual Clinic, or 8-1-1 if you’re unsure.

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After four years at the helm of Tourism Prince George (TPG), CEO Colin Carson is taking his talents elsewhere.

Colin will be pursuing new career opportunities and departing the role on August 1st.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege to work for Tourism Prince George for the past
8 years,” says Carson.

“I’ve grown an immeasurable amount, both personally and professionally, during my time. I am extremely grateful of the support and guidance of the current and past TPG Board and staff. It’s been an incredible adventure. While I’m saddened to depart TPG, I’m extremely proud of the work we’ve accomplished.”

Carson joined the Tourism Prince George team in 2017 and has been the CEO since July 2021.

During his tenure he led the recent Visitor Centre move, the construction of Nanguz’An Market, and the pandemic recovery, which saw TPG’s revenue grow
to its highest point.

“Colin joined Tourism Prince George prior to the pandemic and has steered the organization and staff through some very challenging times with professionalism,
compassion and strength,” said Jamie Valcourt, Chair of Tourism Prince George.

“He has led the organization with energy, creativity and processes that have positioned Tourism Prince George well for the future.”

The board has appointed Carmen Herman as interim CEO to lead the organization
during the recruitment process.

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University soccer fans only have to wait two more months to see the UNBC Timberwolves in action.

This morning (Monday), the Canada West conference issued its 2025-26 schedule for both the men and women.

Both UNBC varsity teams will kick off the campaign at home on August 22nd with a double header at Masich Place Stadium against the TRU Wolfpack at 5:30 and 8pm. The season opening doubleheader will conclude on Sunday, August 24th with a pair of matches at Noon and 2:30.

The women’s soccer team will conclude its campaign on the road October 11th and 12th against UBCO while the UNBC men wrap up a week later (October 17th and 19th) hosting UBC.

Here is the full schedule for both teams:

UNBC WSOC:

Aug. 22 – UNBC vs. TRU (5:30 PM)

Aug. 24 – UNBC vs. TRU (12:00 PM)

Aug. 28 – UNBC at UFV (5:30 PM)

Aug. 29 – UNBC at UFV (5:30 PM)

Sep. 5 – UNBC vs. UBC (6:00 PM)

Sep. 7 – UNBC vs. UBC (12:00 PM)

Sep. 12 – UNBC vs. UBCO (5:30 PM)

Sep. 20 – UNBC at TRU (1:00 PM)

Sep. 26 – UNBC at VIC (5:00 PM)

Sep. 27 – UNBC AT VIC (5:00 PM)

Oct. 3 – UNBC vs. TWU (6:00 PM)

Oct. 5 – UNBC vs. TWU (12:00 PM)

Oct. 11 – UNBC at UBC (1:00 PM)

Oct. 12 – UNBC at UBC (1:00 PM)

UNBC MSOC

Aug. 22 – UNBC vs. TRU (8 PM)

Aug. 24 – UNBC vs. TRU (2:30 PM)

Aug. 29 – UNBC at TWU (7:15 PM)

Aug. 30 – UNBC at TWU (7:15 PM)

Sep. 5 – UNBC at VIC (7:15 PM)

Sep. 6 – UNBC at VIC (7:15 PM)

Sep. 12 – UNBC vs. SSK (8:00 PM)

Sep. 20 – UNBC at CGY (1:00 PM)

Sep. 21 – UNBC at MRU (2:00 PM)

Sep. 26 – UNBC vs. UFV (11:00 AM)

Sep. 27 – UNBC. Vs. UFV (12:00 PM)

Oct. 4 – UNBC at UBCO (1:00 PM)

Oct. 5 – UNBC at UBCO (1:00 PM)

Oct. 17 – UNBC vs. UBC (6:00 PM)

Oct. 19 – UNBC vs. UBC (2:00 PM)

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An investigation is continuing to determine why a vehicle rolled over near Sproat Lake, and so far, RCMP says they’re not ruling out alcohol.  

The vehicle was found after it rolled down an embankment after the SUV went off the road shortly before 12:30 a.m. on Jun. 22, but police say all the occupants in the crash are expected to survive. 

“The vehicle had four men and a woman in it, who all suffered some injuries and are expected to recover,” they say. “The group extracted themselves from the vehicle and met emergency services on the roadway.” 

Corporal Brett Urano says anyone with information, or dashcam footage is asked to contact Port Alberni RCMP at 250-723-2424. 

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A new hot water boiler is coming to the Beaverly Fire Hall.

During its meeting last week in Mackenzie, the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George approved $25,000 from the Community Works Fund to also replace the windows at their facility.

In addition, a new bylaw for fees and charges for services and property use at the Robson Valley Recreation Centre and Canoe Valley Recreation Centre were adopted.

These will be communicated to facility users this summer with the new bylaw taking effect October 1st.

In addition, nine organizations received over 50-grand Arts, Culture and Heritage grants:

• Dunster Fine Arts School Society for $8,000 for youth film camp
• Mackenzie Community Arts Council for $9,921 for flooring upgrades
• Method Dance Society for $6,000 for the Commuity Moves Festival
• Prince George Community Band for $4,000 for a music library and equipment
• Northern BC Queer Connection Society for $2,000 for the Pride Picnic
• Wishbone Theatre for $8,000 for the production of Mourning After
• Theatre Northwest for $2,275 for a feminine hygiene dispenser and a baby changing station
• The Exploration Place for $7,500 for a children’s STEAM gallery
• Fraser Lyric Opera Society for $2,500 for a children’s summer camp

Furthermore, Community and Recreation grants were also awarded to the following areas:

Electoral Area A (Salmon River-Lakes)

• Ness Lake Recreation Commission for $500 for a Mother’s Day event
• Ness Lake Recreation Commission for $9,000 for a water treatment system

Electoral Area C (Chilako River-Nechako)

• Miworth Community Association for $1,186 for the Miworth Days event

Electoral Area F (Willow River-Upper Fraser Valley)

• Eastline Market for $3,200 for operating expenses
• Prince George Snowmobile Club for $4,000 for cabin restoration

Electoral Area H (Robson Valley-Canoe)

• Dunster Community Association for $5,000 for insurance
• McBride Elks/Royal Purple for $2,500 for event insurance
• Youth for Christ for $5,000 for outdoor equipment

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Prince George residents will get their first look at the 2025 Hospice Dream Home this week.

The grand opening, hosted by the local palliative care society is taking place on Wednesday at 11am at 7807 Southridge Avene in College Heights.

A complimentary BBQ is being held on site by Elite Pacific Builders.

The Dream Home Lottery, now in its 15th year, is the biggest fundraiser for the society as each ticket purchased supports compassionate care and programs to assist individuals and families.

“Every year, this home represents what’s possible when our community shows up for hospice care. We’re grateful for the continued support and proud to open the doors once again.” — Donna Flood, Executive Director.

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The 108 Mile Water system will be undergoing regular maintenance and flushing.

The Cariboo Regional District says the work will begin today (June 23) continuing through to July 18.

The CRD says water may be cloudy with air or display more particulates when taps are turned on and that there is no cause for concern.

You may also choose to allow water to run clear before using and it is advised that you change any home water filters that you may have inside your homes once flushing is complete.

The Cariboo Regional District says hydrant and main valve servicing will also be ongoing while the 108 Mile Water System Maintenance and Flushing is being done.

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Sports by Hartley Monday, June 23rd, 2025

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

NBA Finals: (Game 7)

Oklahoma City Thunder  103  Indiana Pacers  91

Canadian and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 29 points and added 5 rebounds, a playoff career-high 12 assists to lead the Thunder to its first NBA title since locating in Oklahoma City.

The game summary is here.

Scoring Title
MVP on a 68 win team
WCF MVP
NBA Champion
Finals MVP

SGA just completed one of the greatest individual seasons in NBA history pic.twitter.com/o5doCl6i7j

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 23, 2025

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (4) Indiana Pacers

• Game 1: Pacers 111, Thunder 110  (Thu. June 5)
• Game 2: Thunder 123, Pacers  107 (Sun. June 8)
• Game 3: Pacers  116, Thunder  107 (Wed. June 11)
• Game 4: Thunder 111, Pacers  104 (Fri. June 13)
• Game 5: Thunder  120  Pacers 109 (Mon. June 16)
• Game 6: Pacers  108  Thunder 91 (Thu. June 19)
• Game 7: Thunder  103  Pacers  91 (Sun, June 22)

The NBA playoff results are here.

The Phoenix Suns have agreed to a deal which will send 15-time NBA All-Star Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets.

In return, the Suns will get Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in this year’s draft and five second-round picks.

Hockey:

Former Prince George Cougars associate coach and director of player development Steve
O’Rourke is headed to the Professional Women’s Hockey League.

O’Rourke has been hired as the first head coach of the expansion Seattle franchise.

O’Rourke lands head coaching gig with Seattle PWHL franchise | https://t.co/TzYogbitPZ #cityofpg #PrinceGeorge #northernbc #sports pic.twitter.com/2R4K6A2p4h

— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) June 20, 2025

The 2025 NHL draft will be held in Los Angeles.

The first round goes on Friday (4 p.m. PT) with rounds 2-7 on Saturday (9 a.m.).

Josh Ravensbergen of the P.G. Cougars is the top-ranked North American goalie in the draft.

#

The WHL will announce its preseason and regular season schedules this week.

The Prince George Cougars start their regular season with a home doubleheader against the Portland Winterhawks September 19th and 20th.

Meanwhile, in the BCHL, the Prince George Spruce Kings will play their home opener
on September 26th against the Surrey Eagles.

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Six months after closing operations, the movie theatre in Campbell River is officially coming back.

Golin Cinemas, a company that brought back the movie theatre in Duncan last December, is taking over the theatre at Merecroft Village after previous owner Landmark Cinemas closed it in early January.

Related: Last date for movie theatre set for January 5 – My Campbell River Now

Golin Cinemas owner Andrew Golin says it was a good opportunity to bring it back to the community.

“It made sense. We have three other theatres on the Island, so it complements those as well,” said Golin.

He says getting the theatre was pretty turnkey as everything was left there in the property, with the company taking possession of it three weeks ago.

As part of the re-opening, several former staff are coming back to work there. Golin says staff are very enthusiastic about this news.

“From what we read they had great customer service and a good environment there so we’re happy that at least some of them are coming back,” said Golin.

“For now, we’re just re-opening the theatre as it was.”

He adds it feels great to re-open this theatre, with Golin Cinemas reporting a lot of excitement from the community for this announcement.

Plans are in place to bring a new roof to the theatre, with the company aiming to perform the work in early 2026.

The theatre is expected to re-open on Friday, June 27.

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WeCan Shelter Society has opened their 14th home to someone in need today.

This morning saw a grand opening of the home at Maple Pool Campground, with a shower, toilet, sink, mini-fridge and a built-in bed all included in the unit.

The home is part of the society’s mission to provide homes for the unhoused across the Comox Valley.

WeCan Board member Sue Finneron says it’s incredible that they have reached this milestone.

“All the work we do is volunteer, the funds we use to build the units are donated locally by valued community members and we don’t take any government donations,” said Finneron.

“The fact we built 14 homes for people in the Valley is so exciting, and we’re thrilled to build more.”

Finneron says despite this milestone, this unit is also the last one to be built at the Campground as they’ve run out of land to build more.

“If another space opens up, then we would be able to place another unit here but right now, Maple Pool doesn’t have any more space for us,” said Finneron.

“So far people are still donating to us which is fantastic. We are looking forward to working with the city and Regional District to find a piece of land that will work for all of us.”

The society is looking for new land to continue their cause and build more homes for the community, with Finneron saying they’ve had meetings with both the city and Regional District about it. They are waiting to hear a response from them.

They hope this can be a joint project, with the city or district able to buy a piece of land for the Society.

Finneron says if that happens, it’ll allow them to put more money into homes, with hopes the new land can house 15 to 20 units.

The person getting this new unit is expected to move in this week.

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The Federal Court of Appeal has granted a stay on the cull order of nearly 400 ostriches in Edgewood.

Katie Pasitney, spokesperson for Universal Ostrich Farm says this is a big win.

“We’re going to change policies; we’re going to change laws. We can do this.” said Katie.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) had ordered the farm to cull the entire flock of birds after it declared an avian influenza outbreak at the property late last year, however the farm’s appeal to pause the cull was granted Friday afternoon.

Related coverage:

RCMP investigate alleged ostrich shooting
The fight to save 400 ostriches grows
Federal Court rejects Universal Ostrich Farm’s request to halt cull
Edgewood’s ostrich farm takes the fight to parliament
Edgewood Ostriches survive another day
Fighting for survival; Ostrich cull order nears for Edgewood farm

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Wild weather didn’t dampen BC Opposition Leader John Rustad as he toured of the Kootenays this weekend.

After attending the Spirit of the Rockies parade in Cranbrook, and visiting Kimberley and Marysville in the East Kootenay, he made it was to the West, with stops in Trail, Castlegar and Nelson, meeting with various groups about the issues currently facing the community, particularly with the mining industry.

“One of the biggest issues is just how difficult it is to get permitting and to do anything. Accessing the backcountry is becoming a huge issue and the opportunity to really move forward a project, whether it’s something as simple as a small aggregate mine, or whether it’s just to do some exploration work, it has become extremely frustrating and difficult to actually do anything in this province, especially down in this region.” said Rustad.

Joined by Easy Kootenay MLAs Pete Davis and Scott McInnes, Rustad said they will be taking their issues back to the powers-at-be.

“I will be pushing them on these issues as to why we can’t get work done, why it takes so long for the ministries to do anything. But more importantly, as well as it gives us a good base in terms of that opportunity- should we have the honour of forming government, to look at what the priorities should be to be able to help regions like the Kootenays, to be able to see these jobs created and to be able to see a prosperous economy.”

Rustad weighs in on United States actions against Iran

The opposition leader has weighed in on the U.S attack on Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend, saying there’s not enough leaders talking about peace.

“We need to be looking at how to bring peace, whether it’s to what’s going on with Gaza and Israel, whether it’s Iran and Israel, whether it’s what’s going on in Ukraine with Russia, we need to be able to find ways to be able to bring peace in the world.” said Rustad.

“When I see the action that the Americans took against Iran, if the intelligence is right and Iran was close to building a nuclear weapon, there’s no question it would end up being used, and I think we do need to take steps to make sure that doesn’t happen, but I’m very fearful in terms of what will the fallout will be from this war that’s going on now between Israel and Iran, and now that the United States is being drawn into it.”

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Prince George City Council will look to approve funding for the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games site visit at tomorrow’s (Monday) meeting.

The City announced on June 12th, they were shortlisted to host the five day event that would bring around 1,700 athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across Canada.

On February 24, Council approved a bid for the event, also committing up to $400,000 from the Major Events Reserve Fund in cash and in-kind support if selected.

In a staff report to council, the City would use up to $30,000 from the same fund for the site visit activities scheduled in October 2025.

“As we learned from the bidding and evaluation process for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, it is critically important that we put our very best foot forward to “wow” the bid evaluation committee when they visit Prince George, and to demonstrate that we are the best choice in the country to host these games.” the report stated.

While administration is still waiting on specific requests from Special Olympics Canada, city staff have already started planning the visit.

Also on the agenda for Monday’s meeting is a number of annual reports, and funding for the CN Centre’s 30th anniversary celebration.

The full agenda for Monday’s meeting can be found here.

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Prince George City Council will look to approve funding for the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games site visit at tomorrow’s (Monday) meeting.

The City announced on June 12th, they were shortlisted to host the five day event that would bring around 1,700 athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across Canada.

On February 24, Council approved a bid for the event, also committing up to $400,000 from the Major Events Reserve Fund in cash and in-kind support if selected.

In a staff report to council, the City would use up to $30,000 from the same fund for the site visit activities scheduled in October 2025.

“As we learned from the bidding and evaluation process for the 2015 Canada Winter Games, it is critically important that we put our very best foot forward to “wow” the bid evaluation committee when they visit Prince George, and to demonstrate that we are the best choice in the country to host these games.” the report stated.

While administration is still waiting on specific requests from Special Olympics Canada, city staff have already started planning the visit.

Also on the agenda for Monday’s meeting is a number of annual reports, and funding for the CN Centre’s 30th anniversary celebration.

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Environment Canada has put a Special Air Quality Statement in place for the north.

They say it’s impacted or is likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, with the smoke potentially visible across the northeast and central regions of the province.

The areas listed in the alert include Fort Nelson, B.C. Peace River, Williston, McGregor, Prince George, Stuart – Nechako, Bulkley Valley and the Lakes District.

Environment Canada recommends limiting time outdoors, and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

More information can be found on Environment Canada’s website here.

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Environment Canada has put a Special Air Quality Statement in place for the north.

They say it’s impacted or is likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, with the smoke potentially visible across the northeast and central regions of the province.

The areas listed in the alert include Fort Nelson, B.C. Peace River, Williston, McGregor, Prince George, Stuart – Nechako, Bulkley Valley and the Lakes District.

Environment Canada recommends limiting time outdoors, and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

More information can be found on Environment Canada’s website here.

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Update Noon Monday, June 23rd

Environment Canada has ended its Special Air Quality Statement that was issued on the weekend for Prince George and area.

Original Story:

Environment Canada has put a Special Air Quality Statement in place for the north.

They say it’s impacted or is likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, with the smoke potentially visible across the northeast and central regions of the province.

The areas listed in the alert include Fort Nelson, B.C. Peace River, Williston, McGregor, Prince George, Stuart – Nechako, Bulkley Valley and the Lakes District.

Environment Canada recommends limiting time outdoors, and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

More information can be found on Environment Canada’s website here.

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Environment Canada has put a Special Air Quality Statement in place for the north.

They say its impacted or is likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, with the smoke potentially visible across the northeast and central regions of the province.

The areas listed in the alert include Fort Nelson, B.C. Peace River, Williston, McGregor, Prince George, Stuart – Nechako, Bulkley Valley and the Lakes District.

Environment Canada recommend limiting time outdoors, and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

More information can be found on Environment Canada’s website here.

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CFL:

Week three of the CFL has concluded after yesterday’s two games.

Ottawa REDBLACKS 20    @   Calgary Stampeders 12

Winnipeg Blue Bombers 27   @   BC Lions 14

The CFL scores and schedule can be found here.

The CFL standings are here.

MLB:

The Toronto Blue Jays took a 7-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox yesterday..

The two will play again this morning in Toronto at 10:37.

The MLB scores and schedule can be found here.

Standings can be found here.

NBA:

Game 7 of the NBA finals is tonight, as the Oklahoma City Thunder host the Indiana Pacers at 5.

GAME 7 GAME DAY IS HERE

PACERS. THUNDER.
An NBA CHAMPION will be crowned.

Don’t miss this WINNER-TAKE-ALL GAME 7 of the #NBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV TONIGHT at 8:00pm/et on ABC pic.twitter.com/AX7jV0yWkI

— NBA (@NBA) June 22, 2025

Scores and game recaps can be found here.

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Update (7:17am Sunday):

Drive BC confirmed earlier this morning that Highway 97 in Quesnel has reopened.

OPEN! #BCHwy97 – The highway is now open in #Quesnel following a structure fire. https://t.co/w42eJO7aUu

— DriveBC (@DriveBC) June 22, 2025

Original (10:57pm Saturday):

According to a social media post, the blaze took place at Parallel Mill in the Finning Road area this evening (Saturday).

The Facebook post from Cariboo Wildfires, Information and Safety page noted three fire departments were on scene.

Motorists can expect limited visibility due to the smoke, as well as traffic control crews.

A detour is in place.

UPDATE #BCHwy97 – The highway is CLOSED at Finning Road due to a structure fire. Watch for traffic control crews in the area. Expect limited visibility with smoke. Detour in effect.
https://t.co/T6D6NIu513 https://t.co/nHRbfzcgS8

— DriveBC (@DriveBC) June 22, 2025

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Drive BC is reporting Highway 97 is closed due to a structure fire in Quesnel.

According to a social media post, the blaze took place at Parallel Mill in the Finning Road area this evening (Saturday).

The Facebook post from Cariboo Wildfires, Information and Safety page noted three fire departments were on scene.

Motorists can expect limited visibility due to the smoke, as well as traffic control crews.

A detour is in place.

UPDATE #BCHwy97 – The highway is CLOSED at Finning Road due to a structure fire. Watch for traffic control crews in the area. Expect limited visibility with smoke. Detour in effect.
https://t.co/T6D6NIu513 https://t.co/nHRbfzcgS8

— DriveBC (@DriveBC) June 22, 2025

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The Tribune Bay Park Campground is getting a full redesign this year.

BC Parks is currently redesigning the campground, which will see new sites with a variety of camping options and small, basic cabins included. The redesign will also offer electrified and non-electrified sites, new pit toilets, and a new shower building.

The redesign is part of the Tribune Bay Park Recreation Enhancements project, an initiative that aims to expand the park to protect more land and offer opportunities to improve natural, cultural, and recreational values.

BC Parks says to bring these changes to life, they will perform construction on the campground.

“In summer 2026, there will be a short-term, temporary reduction of approximately 40 campsites in the park due to a complete redesign and reconstruction of the existing campground,” said BC Parks.

“The re-built campground will include more space and privacy between sites in the same footprint. As the project moves forward, BC Parks is committed to providing a similar number of campsites as originally existed in the park and is currently exploring locations within the park to build the remaining 40 campsites as part of phase 2 of the project (fall/winter 2026/27).”

Along with construction, they say staff are working on other changes like improving access from the campground to the beach, a new playground, accessibility improvements, universally accessible showers, prohibiting wood-burning campfires, and putting in an extra vehicle fee for second vehicles at a campsite if there’s space.

They expect construction to start this fall.

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Several new trees have been planted at the Resource Recovery Centre for an ongoing initiative.

That comes from the qathet Regional District, saying they got up to $7,500 from BC Hydro to plant trees at the Centre’s green space in April. The money comes from Hydro’s Community ReGreening Program, which supports tree planting projects across the province.

After getting the money, district Operations Department staff bought and planted the trees in May, with the species, sizes and planting locations all determined by public works labourer and certified arborist Alex Mitchell.

District Board Chair Clay Brander thanks Hydro for funding the project, saying these trees support their efforts in remediating greenspaces at the Centre.

The new trees are part of an ongoing project to reforest the old incinerator and landfill site.

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Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park was full of vendors, activities, and community members to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

The day began with local dignitaries saying a few words for the event’s opening ceremony, followed by drumming.

“For Indigenous people, this is a day we all gather to celebrate. To me personally, I think its to celebrate getting out of winter and we can start hunting and gathering.” said Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan.

“For Prince George, I’ve always said, take five minutes to learn about your local First Nations, and what a better way to do it then coming down to the park.”

Logan said this year’s celebration is bigger than the previous year, with planning for next year beginning tomorrow.

The British Columbia Assembly of First Nations said they stand firm in their commitment to uphold the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which is recognized as law in Canada.

“The bluster and threats directed at Canada have generated anxiety and fear in all Canadians, but we must stand firm in our resolve to uphold the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” stated Regional Chief Terry Teegee.

“While we build, we protect; and while we grow, we will preserve for future generations. The prosperity that we all want to share must come with clean and healthy lands, water and air that we will be proud to pass on to our children.” 

The National Indigenous Peoples Day festivities go until 5pm.

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First Nations will see more sovereignty and stability through the purchase of a Campbell River building.

Tiičma Enterprises, an Indigenous economic development corporation, has bought a building at 1250 Ironwood Street, securing a permanent place for governance, business operations, and community services that would support local First Nations.

Island Coastal Economic Trust, who invested $200,000 into this initiative, says the Nations originally leased the building for five years.

“It created opportunities for community engagement, member services, and a sense of connection for citizens living in the city,” said the Trust.

“Three years ago, Tiičma Enterprises joined the space. This helped expand its business operations and created new employment opportunities for Nation members in both Campbell River and the Nation’s core territory.”

Enterprises CEO Gary Wilson says their citizens are happy with the change, adding for many the space is a home away from home.

“It also allows for several touch points for the businesses and the community,” said Wilson. “Now all of our staff and managers have office space, where we just couldn’t do that before.”

With this purchase, they plan to build a cold storage for traditional food distribution, as well as a business incubator to support the Nation’s entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and shared office infrastructure.

The goal of this purchase is to provide a space that will bring a stronger economic future for the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’ / Che:kles7et’h’ First Nations.

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Police are asking you to be cautious when sending money following a recent festival scam.

On Tuesday, Powell River RCMP got a report of a social media fraud targeting potential vendors for the upcoming Powell River Blackberry Festival.

Officers say the scammer is claiming to be the festival coordinator, asking for vendor payment by emailing [email protected].

They say coordinators of the festival will never ask you for payment via social media, private message, gift cards, or a transfer to an unofficial email address.

“All vendors will be sent an official invoice from the Chamber of Commerce and the only legitimate email address for the festival is [email protected].,” said RCMP.

You’re urged to be careful when sending money or personal information, and if you have concerns, call Powell River RCMP at 604-485-6255.

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Sunday’s Simms Park concert has been cancelled due to the passing of one of the performers.

On Thursday, the City of Courtenay said that Anela Kahiamoe, a multi-instrumentalist known for bringing a Hawaiian flair and feel-good vibes to his music, had passed away.

Kahiamoe was scheduled to perform the Duo of Duos concert with Melancholy Michael and Easy Street for the Simms Summer Concert series.

The city sends their sincere condolences to Kahiamoe’s friends and family.

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The Stellat’en First Nation and Village of Fraser Lake acquired 5.6 acres of land for the largest commercial development in Fraser Lake in decades.

A feasibility study is underway to determine the exact nature and components of the development, with Stellat’en staying true to the zoning and Fraser Lake’s Official Community Plan.

The Village said development will be phased, with the first phase planned for construction in 2026 including a new hotel.

The final size of the hotel and included amenities will be determined through the feasibility study.

The aim is to create a commercial venue that provides services to everyone living in and visiting the area.

Other major projects that look to take place include:

• Drone Transport Initiative – Phase II – A partnership with the Village of Fraser Lake, University of British Columbia and provincial healthcare partners to deliver pharmaceutical and lab products to and from rural and remote communities.
• Ni Ti Mountain Wind – A 35 turbine clean energy wind project just south of Stellaquo and Fraser Lake, starting construction in 2026 and beginning operations in 2029.
• Slenyah Redevelopment – A redevelopment of the current commercial space at Stellaquo including a new gas station, market, and office space.
• Stellat’en First Nation Administration Building – A new building to house administrative and government operations for Stellat’en for decades to come.

More information can be found on the Village of Fraser Lake’s website here.

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The Shuswap Band completed an 80-hectare wildfire risk reduction project in the Juniper Heights area, east of Invermere.

The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) says the project involved an initial effort to ensure investments toward reducing the heavy forest fuel load were not lost.

FESBC officials say the project was meant to build local First Nations’ capacity, provided environmental, social, and cultural benefits to the community, enhanced wildlife habitat, and presented opportunities for cultural burns in the future.

Work was supported by the FESBC and Kenpesq’t Forestry LP (Kenpesq’t).

“The Shuswap Band is proud to take part in this vital, Indigenous-led initiative in partnership with the Province of British Columbia and Kenpesq’t,” said Shuswap Band Chief Barbara Cote.

“By focusing on proactive and preventative measures, this program strengthens our collective efforts to mitigate the risks of future forest fires. It also provides a meaningful cultural learning experience that not only supports our community but contributes to the safety and well-being of the wider public, while ensuring the protection of all of our wildlife and plants for future generations.”

Juniper Heights is a residential area just outside of the Shuswap Band Reserve, and has previously undergone wildfire risk reduction treatment.

Since then, conifer trees have grown into open landscapes, such as grasslands.

“This shift in vegetation increased fuel loads and altered the landscape,” said Aaron Lee, Kenpesq’t Woodlands Manager.

“As such, Juniper Heights was an excellent candidate for renewed treatment—not only to enhance wildfire resilience but also to support the reintroduction of cultural burning practices in the future.”

Kenpesq’t conducted most of the work, which involved developing a plan, project management, organizing crews, supervision and submissions to their funder, the FESBC.

The FESBC says the job included manual cutting of small, immature trees, hand piling branches and forest debris and burning the piles.

“This work primarily entailed crews with chainsaws, cutting small diameter trees, bucking or cutting them into smaller pieces, and piling them to be burned. The trees cut were not ‘merchantable’, meaning they were not large enough to turn into dimensional lumber,” said Travis Emsland, Registered Professional Forester and Operations Manager with FESBC.

The FESBC provided $622,520.97 for the project, which included the preliminary field reconnaissance and wildfire risk reduction surveys, cutting, piling and burning, and grass seeding old burn pile locations to minimize the proliferation of invasive plants in the exposed soil.

“FESBC is a vital source of funding at a time when climate change is accelerating, and effective wildfire risk reduction is more critical than ever for the safety and resilience of our communities,” said Lee.

“Working with their Operations Managers has been a great experience. They’ve been great to collaborate with, bringing valuable knowledge and a strong understanding of the importance of these projects and First Nations involvement.”

The project was initiated by the Shuswap Band, which has been working toward increasing its workforce capacity.

“First Nations have been working very hard to get a foothold in the forest industry. We do this to make an impact from a Cultural and Indigenous Science approach to the management decisions that affect our Rights and Title on the landscape, but also to have economic opportunities previously withheld from us. Our role as Caretakers to our territories is an important one that Indigenous Peoples take seriously,” said Shuswap Band Councillor Mark Thomas.

“Shuswap Band is undertaking a wildfire risk reduction project on lands adjacent to our reserve. The intent is to limit the risk from forest fires, provide training, develop partnerships, and provide economic opportunities to the band and our member businesses. Shuswap Band is very proud of the work performed and intends to continue to capitalize on all aspects of forest management, from harvest to protection, inclusive of cultural values.”

So far, the FESBC says the work has reduced wildfire risk within the wildland urban interface area near Juniper Heights.

The project has made way for future cultural and prescribed burns.

“Wildfire risk reduction is a necessary step toward reintroducing cultural burning,” said Lee.

“Given the current state of the landscape and the areas that require burning, it’s an essential part of the overall process, and we are currently planning to conduct a cultural burn in the Juniper Heights project area.”

FESBC officials say this project also helped enhance wildlife habitats for species such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and elk.

Their work has received recognition from the provincial government, as well.

“Wildfire risk reduction projects like this one, led by Kenpesq’t Forestr,y are exactly the kind of project we need more of: community-driven, and practical solutions that deliver economic, environmental, and cultural benefits today and for future generations to come. With support from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, these efforts are helping First Nations-led forestry companies like Kenpesq’t create good family-supporting jobs,” Minister of Forests, Ravi Parmar.

“This is not just about reducing wildfire risk – these investments are laying the groundwork for long-term forest resilience, and stronger more resilient communities across the province.”

Lee says this kind of work with Indigenous nations will be vital to maintaining forest health.

“Cultural burning and meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities will be fundamental to the success of future wildfire management strategies,” said Lee.

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With the Williams Lake Stampede fast approaching, the 22^nd Annual Tsilhqot’in Cross Country Wagon and Horse Rides to the Stampede grounds will be taking place once again.

Dale Hance Chief of the Tl’etinqox First Nation said the first leg of the journey that runs June 22 to 27 will get begin tomorrow (Sunday) departing from Tl’etinqox travelling to the River Ranch.

Even though this is an updated version of the original trex, Hance remembers being a part of it when he was younger.

“We use to ride our horses and go in with team and wagon years ago before our people had cars. I remember that as a kid when you would go to the Stampede everybody would gather at the Stampede Grounds and camp out with their teams and wagons so we’re just doing this to keep our culture alive and going, keep it strong, and pass it onto our younger generation.”

Hance said they’ll be arriving in Williams Lake on on Friday June 27.

“We will be coming in as one from Tl’etinqox, Yunesit’in, Tl’esqox, Tsi Del Del and Xeni Gwet’in into the Stampede grounds on that day. We will also have other people from other communities joining in on this ride. The kids really look forward to this ride every year, they enjoy the Horse and Bike and get really involved, they enjoy camping out and connecting with other communities, it’s all about getting together and having fun,” Hance said.

Hance said as they get closer to Williams Lake our group gets larger, more people keep joining in as we go along so it’s probably going to be one of the biggest Horse and Bike Rides that we’ve had in the past 22 years.

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The City of Fernie is working towards UV disinfection to improve water quality at the Fairy Creek source.

In 2023, the city began a water system improvement program at Fairy Creek, in which it has been getting potable water from for over a century, but it is still unclear
how it’s recharged.

Currently Fairy Creek is only disinfected with chlorine and does not meet the drinking water treatment objectives for surface water supplies in B.C.

The city must increase disinfection and provide filtration or apply for filtration exemption from Interior Health.

The city is working with Interior Health on designs for a UV system that will fit into an existing valve chamber at the reservoir.

Project engineer Joanna Line says designs should be completed later this year and construction next year.

“With ongoing approvals from Interior Health we anticipate the UV design to be finalized by the end of the year,” she said.

“We plan to have construction next year.”

Filtration exemption will only be granted once the UV system is installed and commissioned to the satisfaction of Interior Health.

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CFL:

Week three of the CFL is well underway as the Saskatchewan Roughriders took a 39-32 victory over the Toronto Argonauts yesterday (Friday).

Two games are being played today, which include:

Ottawa REDBLACKS @ Calgary Stampeders (1:00pm)

Winnipeg Blue Bombers @ BC Lions (4:00pm)

The CFL scores and schedule can be found here.

The CFL standings are here.

MLB:

The Toronto Blue Jays struggled to keep up with the Chicago White Sox yesterday, dropping the game 7-1.

They will have another opportunity to take one from the White Sox this this afternoon at 12:07.

The MLB scores and schedule can be found here.

Standings can be found here.

NHL:

The Stanley Cup Finals may be over, but that doesn’t mean teams will be taking time off.

The Winnipeg Jets announced that three time Stanley Cup winner, Jonathan Toews will be signing with the team.

The kid from St. Vital is coming home. pic.twitter.com/8Gh9EmziGQ

— Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) June 20, 2025

Toews last played for the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2022-23 season, where he tallied 15 goals and 31 points in 56 games

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The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will not donate the parcel of land at 824 Front Street to the City of Nelson for a proposed affordable housing development.

Recreation Commission No. 5, which oversees recreation services in Nelson, Electoral Area F, and Defined Area E, voted against the land donation on June 17. 

The RDCK Board of Directors approved the motion to deny the donation on June 19. 

Last year, the RDCK endorsed Nelson CARES’ proposal to develop a 50-unit affordable housing complex on the 800 block of Front Street, located on the vacant five-storey lot beside the Nelson and District Community Complex (NDCC). 

The RDCK owns the NDCC and a portion of the land located at 824 Front Street, while the City of Nelson owns the parcels from 818 to 824 Front Street. 

The RDCK had been exploring potentially donating the land to the City to support the development, which would have been assembled into a single parcel with the properties already owned by the City, alongside an expansion of the NDCC. 

This would have required the regional district to enter a lease with Nelson CARES for over 5,000 square feet of recreation space within the NDCC, if a recreation component were included in the project. 

The monthly lease would have ranged from $20,000 to $25,000 for a period of 35 years. 

The lease, plus operational costs, would have resulted in an annual financial commitment ranging from $250,000 to $300,000 for the RDCK – an amount that Area F Director Tom Newell, who also serves on Rec 5, says was too large a financial burden to assume at this time. 

“We didn’t abandon the idea lightly, but at the end of the day, when we weighed everything, it just seemed like too large a financial commitment for too long to support the project, lease space within the proposed project, and donate land adjacent to it,” said Newell. 

Nelson City Councillor Keith Page, who is also a Rec 5 Commissioner, says timelines were another concern that influenced the decision. 

“Timelines are really important to this project, and we also know that planning and engaging with the public is important,” said Page.  

“By the time we got to this junction, the questions around this proposal, in its current form, were not at a clear enough spot that we could say yes and go ahead with it.” 

Page says the Commission will still consider future projects on the site. However, a report from RDCK Community Services Manager Joe Chirico notes that a future expansion will cost more than what is currently proposed. 

“There is an economy of scale and an efficiency in construction that is lost if the Nelson CARES project is successful,” said Chirico. 

The RDCK will still be involved if the Nelson CARES housing project moves forward, as the construction site will require the use of RDCK property. 

Nelson CARES still needs to secure BC Housing approval for the housing project. However, without the RDCK land donation, the housing component will stand separate from the NDCC, with the land in between remaining unused. 

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Electric dirt bikes are not street legal. 

That’s according to the Nelson Police Department, which has noticed an increase in their popularity – more specifically, the Surron and Talaria brand bikes – among youth. 

Police say there’s been a spike in young riders operating them throughout the city, and warn of the repercussions of failing to follow the law.

E-dirt bikes bikes are not street legal unless they are properly equipped with standard safety features such as headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. 

To legally operate an electric dirt bike in public, riders must have valid insurance and either a Class 6 motorcycle licence or a Class 8 learner’s licence when operating the bike on roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, or any other public space. 

Police say these dirt bikes are subject to offences and fines under the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA). 

Additionally, police warn that anyone caught riding an electric dirt bike in contravention of the Motor Vehicle Act, and who fails to stop for police, could face charges for flight from a peace officer. 

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A historic announcement was made at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club earlier today.

The club, along with Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, Nordic Canada, City of PG and Tourism PG, announced it’s been selected to host the Nordic Canada 2026 Olympic Winter Games Trials.

Olympic Champion and CEO of Nordic Canada Beckie Scott made the official announcement.

“On behalf of Nordic Canada, the community and our organization, it gives me great pleasure to announce that the 2026 Olympic Winter Games Trials have been awarded to Caledonia Nordic Ski Club and the community of Prince George.”

This is the first Olympic Trials of any sport to be hosted in Prince George and Northern BC.

Event Chair, Kevin Pettersen says it’s events like these that make an impact to so many in communities.

“These type of events are those that are so inspirational to everybody, us as volunteers, the kids that are growing up as budding athletes, and I have no doubt that some of the kids that will be inspired by these Olympic Trials will be the ones that are going to be at future Olympic Trials.”

The trials will take place from December 10th to the 16th, and will determine who will represent Canada in cross-country skiing at the 2026 Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina.

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A boil water notice has been issued for the Duhamel Creek Water System in the Regional District of Central Kootenay’s (RDCK) Electoral Area F, effective immediately.  

The notice is a precautionary measure due to a system-wide water outage that has depressurized the distribution system.

Water has been restored; however, users are being asked to restrict water use to essential use only until reservoir levels recover. 

Users will be notified when regular water use can resume. 

As a result, the RDCK and Interior Health recommend that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice.  

Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute.  

Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. 

Owners of all public facilities must post a boil water notice at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public. Alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off.  

They must also verbally advise their clientele of the boil water notice, when possible.  

The RDCK says it will be taking measures to reduce risk, monitoring water quality and notifying the public when the notice is lifted.   

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time,” said the RDCK in a press release.  

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Two members of the Duncan community have been recognized by the Rotary Club for their contributions and efforts in the city with the presentation of the Paul Harris Fellowship.  

According to Rotary, the Paul Haris fellowship is the highest recognition to non-Rotarians, who ‘embody the spirit of Rotary through their community service and dedication to the organization’s ideals.’ 

One recipient is a language teacher at Quw’utsun Secondary School, Vera Rowan, who Rotary says demonstrated leadership and dedication to the community as a whole. 

“Rowan has demonstrated endless dedication to supporting the students to undertake several initiatives, including a coat drive for Warmland and a food drive for Cowichan Women Against Violence,” they say.  

The other recipient is 39 Days of July Festival organizer John Falker, who was presented with the award for not only being a recipient of the King Charles Coronation medal, but also for his support to the arts across the region.  

During the presentation former Cowichan-Malahat-Langford MP Alistair MacGregor described Falker’s contribution as going above and beyond.  

“He has provided such a rich and vibrant musical culture in the community that not only benefits our residents, but visitors as well,” MacGregor says.  

Rotary Club president Karen Thorington says the club is delighted to recognize the individuals.  

“Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self, Vera and John epitomize this principle that all Rotarians strive for,” she says.  

Rotary Duncan was chartered in 1930, and according to a social media post, for 95 years the club has sought to serve the people and community organizations of the Cowichan Valley. 

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No matter if you live in a small rural community or a big urban city, North Cowichan’s mayor says everyone is facing the struggles of homelessness and the circumstances that create it. 

Council attended a conference in Ottawa where they were able to listen in on how communities across Canada are dealing with the rising concern, as it relates to the ongoing drug crisis.  

Douglas says right now both North Cowichan and the City of Duncan are limited in how they can deal with the issue, and that has left them looking at more positive options on how to curb this growing trend.  

“We have some role in terms of bylaw enforcement, and with the RCMP there is a role there with enforcement,” he says. “However, if you look at the real solutions to the problem here, whether it’s supportive housing, treatment recovery centers, or a mental health facility, these are well beyond the scope as to what we can provide.  

“These fall firmly on the shoulders of the provincial and federal governments.” 

Douglas says everyone has the right to treatment, and that is why they’re in discussions with Island Health to help address the increased amount of street disorder happening in the region.  

He says they’re looking for options, and so far, talks are moving along very well. 

“The meeting was very productive, and we identified a few areas where there could be a lot more collaboration between our respective organizations to get some of these challenges under control,” he says.  

One of the recommendations made to help identify ‘hot spots’ is having members of the bylaw travel with RCMP and social workers to work with what Douglas refers to as the unhoused population to discourage encampments from showing up and provide more housing.  

“One area where we’re looking to see some new rental units open. This could be below market rates and good for the community,” he says. “In order to build the facility, we’re really trying to discourage encampments.”  

According to BC Housing, in 2023 over 11,000 people were identified as experiencing some form of homelessness, with 69 per cent of them being between the ages of 25 and 55 and mostly men.  

The report also says 70 per cent of people experiencing homelessness have been without a place of their own for a year or more, with 37 per cent not making enough income to support housing.  

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Sunshine Coast Tourism is looking to collect more money from people staying in the region.

The agency wants to increase the bed tax from 2 per cent to 3 per cent.

The Municipal and Regional District Tax is collected from visitors on all short-term rentals, like Airbnb and Vrbo, as well as hotels and motels.

Executive Director Annie Wise asked Powell River councillors Thursday night for a letter of support in their application to the province.

Wise says about $1 million was collected last year from the tax and the increase would bring in another $500,000.

Some of that money – 20-25 per cent – comes back to municipalities like Powell River for affordable housing.

The tourism agency’s annual report says the average stay in the region is about three nights.

Overall room revenue has been steadily increasing since 2020 and reached $50.2 million in 2024.

The support letter is expected at the August 21st council meeting.

If approved by the province, Wise says they would like to see the increase in place for Aug. 1, 2026 before the height of the tourist season in 2027.

During her presentation, Wise noted challenges with available accommodations since the changes regarding short-term rental regulations both in Powell River and with the B.C. government.

“Especially for some types of travellers like family groups like to stay in multi-bedroom homes, so this has led to some compression during peak season and peak periods…and fewer places for visitors to stay can have a real ripple effect on businesses like restaurants, tours and shops,” Wise said.

She also noted roughly 43 per cent of respondents to a tourist survey said they had to adjust their plans due to issues with BC Ferries.

The agency says direct visitor spending in the Sunshine Coast, from Howe Island to Desolation Sound, between July 2023 and June 2024 was about $256 million.

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The new Holt Creek bridge on the Cowichan Valley Trail opens to walkers, cyclists and horse riders on Saturday, June 21.

The 74 metre steel frame bridge with a wooden deck replaces the old railway trestle over Holt Creek, which opened in 1922, but was determined to be near the end of its lifespan in 2017 and closed in the summer of 2024.

The bridge has been renamed Q’ixluts (pronounced KH-ee-r-hluhts), the original Hul’qumi’num name for Holt Creek.

The name refers to the black colour of the shale beneath the bridge and was chosen in partnership with Cowichan Tribes to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the area, and honour Indigenous language and heritage along the trail.

The new bridge was constructed to be strong enough for emergency response vehicles and maintenance equipment to use.

It’s located on the Cowichan Valley Trail between Duncan and Lake Cowichan, just west of Glenora Trails Head Park.

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The new Holt Creek bridge on the Cowichan Valley Trail opens to walkers, cyclists and horse riders on Saturday, June 21.

The 74 metre steel frame bridge with a wooden deck replaces the old railway trestle over Holt Creek, which opened in 1922, but was determined to be near the end of its lifespan in 2017 and closed in the summer of 2024.

The bridge has been renamed Q’ixluts (pronounced KH-ee-r-hluhts), the original Hul’qumi’num name for Holt Creek.

The name refers to the black colour of the shale beneath the bridge and was chosen in partnership with Cowichan Tribes to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the area, and honour Indigenous language and heritage along the trail.

The new bridge was constructed to be strong enough for emergency response vehicles and maintenance equipment to use.

It’s located on the Cowichan Valley Trail between Duncan and Lake Cowichan, just west of Glenora Trails Head Park.

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A warrant has been issued for a man after failing to appear in Nanaimo Provincial Court. 

38-year-old David Pollen failed to attend a scheduled court appearance recently after a previous firearm charge. 

Pollen is a Caucasian man, 5’9, 190 lbs., with brown hair and hazel eyes. 

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line. 

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The East Kootenay is starting off summer with elevated drought conditions, with level five reported in the Elk Valley while the rest of the region is at level three.

The provincial government measures drought from level 0 (normal or wetter than normal conditions) to level five (rare, severe dry conditions).

“It’s rare for this level of dryness to occur. The Provincial Drought Level Scale measures the severity of the natural drought hazard, but it doesn’t necessarily tell us the potential for water scarcity impacts,” said Doris Leong, Acting Director of Drought Operations with the BC River Forecast Centre.

“Whether an area experiences water scarcity can depend on a number of factors, including how resilient water systems are, local conditions because they may be different than the broader area that the drought level describes, and how water supply and demand are managed.”

Currently, Elk-Flathead Valley is the only water basin in the province at drought level five.

Leong says the impacts of increased drought levels on human and ecological values in particular areas must be assessed on a local level.

“For example, a water supply might experience different impacts than a farmer in the same area, depending on their capacity for water storage,” said Leong.

“There can be a lot of different factors that can affect whether water scarcity is experienced at any drought level.”

Leong says B.C. as a whole has experienced more intense, prolonged droughts in recent years, adding that this year is likely to continue that trend.

“Most of B.C. had a fairly dry winter leading up to this spring and summer, which really set the stage for those persistent deficits in precipitation,” said Leong.

“These long-term deficits mean that our watersheds need pretty substantial rainfall during the spring and summer. It will take more than just a weekend of steady rain to recover.”

Leong says conditions over the coming months will be the deciding factor for the trajectory of B.C.’s drought conditions.

“The summer weather will be the major driver of how drought conditions shape up. They could change, but much of that depends on whether we get cool and wet weather, hot and dry conditions, or some combination of the two,” said Leong.

“The current seasonal weather forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada points to a warmer and drier summer than normal.”

With the potential for water scarcity, Leong says the public can play an important role in conservation.

“One thing we really encourage people to do is to start conserving water early, especially starting with those non-essential water uses and adopting efficient water use practices where you can,” said Leong.

“In basic terms, this means using water for fewer things and using it less often. We also always advise people to follow any water restrictions that may be in place.”

You can find information about your community’s current water restrictions on your municipal government’s website.

Leong says rain barrels and other water storage systems can help you conserve local water sources while ensuring you have a steady supply.

“If you have water storage or a reservoir available, take advantage of those rain events to fill that storage to capacity. That way, you can rely on it when conditions become dry again,” said Leong.

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Favourable weather has helped conditions for two notable fires in BC’s Peace Region.

According to the BC Wildfire Service, the Pocket Knife Creek wildfire, roughly 204 kilometres north of Fort St. John, was brought down to being held, due to a significant amount of precipitation.

The 151,310 hectare fire was also removed as a Wildfire of Note yesterday (Thursday).

The Summit Lake wildfire, around 138 kilometres west of Fort Nelson, also received some precipitation which has helped slow down fire activity, but remains listed as out of control.

That fire is listed as 81,358 hectares in size.

The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality updated its Evacuation Alert for the surrounding areas yesterday.

The Kiskatinaw River wildfire, 60 kilometres south of Dawson Creek, also had its status changed to being held yesterday.

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The City of Cranbrook has been recognized by the BC Economic Development Association for its work in marketing innovation.

The city received the 2025 marketing innovation award at this year’s annual conference in Penticton.

The city was recognized for the Choose Cranbrook website which showcases community assets and opportunities.

Economic development officer Darren Brewer says the the website also highlights Cranbrook’s partnership with the ʔaq’am community and the Ktunaxa Nation.

“This award reflects the collaboration and local talent that continue to drive our economic development efforts,” said Brewer.

“I want to thank GENEX Marketing, who manage the site; Lukas Nemeth Films, who created the video content; Cranbrook Tourism, who led the Ktunaxa Homelands project and Sasha Bogdanovic from CityViz who run our Data Portal. This was a true team effort from start to finish.”

Gregg Berg of Kootenay Employment Services also came away with an award, winning Community Resilience Award for the rural economic development program.

“Bringing home two of the ten provincial awards is something our entire community can be proud of,” said Mayor Wayne Price.

“It’s recognition of the hard work happening across Cranbrook to build a stronger, more resilient economy locally.”

You can learn more about the Choose Cranbrook website here.

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The Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service will conducting big water training next week.

RDEK staff say the crews will be training on Thursday, June 26, following recent water training on June 19.

Crews will be active between the Rock Creek Rest Area and the Elko Airport during the training.

The RDEK is letting residents know in advance so people aren’t concerned.

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The College of the Rockies has partnered with the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise Society (KORE Outdoors) and Selkirk College to launch a mobile outdoor gear repair and education project.

The College says the Re-Hub Tour transforms its Mobile Education Lounge into a repair station, intending to prolong the life of outdoor gear.

“If you have a really expensive winter jacket and the zipper is broken, that can get pretty expensive to repair, and sometimes you have to send it away,” said Paul Tiege, Manager of Applied Research and Innovation at College of the Rockies.

“That could mean you don’t use it, and it may just sit in your closet until it gets thrown away. KORE has a team of professional sewers and repair specialists on-site, and you can bring your things in to get them fixed.”

Tiege says you can bring in a wide variety of items that may need repairs.

“Some good examples are backpacks, tents, jackets, any sort of outdoor, all-weather gear, especially those laminated with GORE‑TEX and technical fabric,” said Tiege.

The mobile workshop will offer free repairs on outdoor gear, skill-building workshops, and drop-off points for items needing more complex fixes.

Tiege says repairing an item rather than throwing it away will not only save you money, but it can also reduce waste.

“The manufacturing of much of our outdoor gear requires a fair amount of unsustainable practices. When we see that about 10 per cent of our global emissions are caused by the apparel industry, we’re basically throwing millions of tons of plastic into the landfill when we get rid of all of this stuff,” said Tiege.

“We can extend the sustainability of outdoor gear by 20 to 25 per cent just by repairing what we have and extending its life.”

The Re-Hub Tour has upcoming stops across the region:

• June 21: Creston Farmers’ Market
• June 28 – 29: Kimberley Localpalooza
• July 4: Fernie Gravel Grind
• July 12: Cranbrook Community Futures
• July 13: Kaslo Wild Ultra
• July 16: Golden Summer Kicks
• July 19: Invermere Valley Appreciation Day
• September 13: Rossland Arts and Culture Fest

“The Re-Hub Tour is helping to reduce landfill waste, extend the life of valuable gear, and show how the outdoor industry can support a circular economy,” said Tiege.

“We’re proud to contribute by supporting a sustainable business practices study and supplying the Mobile Education Lounge.”

The College says the project is funded by the B.C. government’s Clean BC Plastics Action Fund, ETSI-BC, and 1% for the Planet, with donations from Gear re-Store, PBJ Merch Co., and Autogrowth Inc.

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The Canadian Coast Guard will be able to increase its footprint on the Powell River shoreline.

City council approved a development permit Thursday night (June 19) for two sheds and a new workshop building at 4315 Marine Avenue or its search and rescue station.

The new workshop building would 53 square meters (570 square feet) and match the same exterior as the existing station. It will have chain link fence and “treated with images printed on vertical slats with Indigenous motifs” by a local Indigenous artist.

While the decision was unanimous, Councillor Rob Southcott was concerned about public access southwest of the site.

“My interest is that, I believe that there is still significant local public interest in the potential, future potential for that area in terms of amenities serving the public,” Southcott said.

Planning Director Jason Gow says planning revisions were made to pull back from the shoreline and provide access.

Answering another of Southcott’s questions, Gow says the disaster response shed is actually being moved from another site.

“This is a unit that already existed and I think was in existence on the city’s parking lot in and around the former waste water treatment facility. So it was located there and this is just kind of moving it to their existing facility,” Gow explained.

Gow believes the shed would have material for oil spills and other emergencies.

With the development permit approved, the Coast Guard now needs to apply for a building permit.

The Canadian Coast Guard subleases the land from the City of Powell River, which leases it from the Province of British Columbia.

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Quesnel RCMP had a busy 24 hours responding to motor vehicle incidents around the city.

There were three vehicle crashes between June 19 and June 20.

A two-vehicle collision occurred at the junction of Maple Heights and Maple Drive on June 19.

An SUV and a pickup truck collided. The pickup went into the ditch, and the SUV went in a nearby resident’s yard.

The driver of the SUV was taken to the hospital with undetermined injuries.

Police have yet to release the cause of the collision as the investigation is ongoing.

Around midnight on June 20, a vehicle in West Quesnel struck a power pole in the 600 block of North Fraser Drive.

Quesnel RCMP say the driver was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Police believe speed and alcohol were factors in the collision.

According to BC Hydro, the incident knocked for over 600 homes during the night. BC Hydro’s Outage Map reports that power is still out for approximately 31 residents. BC Hydro reports that crews were on–site, and power is estimated to be restored by the afternoon.

Then, just a couple of hours later, at around 2:00 a.m. Police responded to a single-vehicle incident on Highway 97 near Ross Road, where a vehicle had rolled over and came to a rest on the train tracks.

Police say the driver was uninjured, and the vehicle was able to be safely removed from the tracks.

Alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in this incident.

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According to the calendar it’s the first day of summer in the Cariboo but the weather doesn’t make it feel that way.

Environment Canada Meteorologist Matt Loney said there are showers in the forecast today (June 20) 5 to 10 millimetres, with risk of a thunderstorm.

Loney said temperatures will cool off as this upper disturbance moves into the region as well which is counter to what we would expect them to be at this time of year.

With the first weekend of Summer just ahead, we asked loney if it will be more seasonal.

“Tomorrow things start to dry out a little bit as this disturbance starts to exit the region so we’ll see some showers in the morning improving by the afternoon hours with temperatures near normal. Sunday looks like a decent day as a weak ridge of high pressure builds in bringing temperatures to right around normal with the potential of a slight chance of a shower as some instability might still remain in the area.”

Looking at the first week of Summer Loney said a ridge of high pressure will build in beginning the first part of the week.

“For the most part it’s going to be nice. Temperatures will be just a bit above normal for the start of the week and skies should remain mostly sunny at least til Tuesday.”

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A man has been charged in connection to a crash on the Nanaimo Parkway that killed a woman last summer. 

Nanaimo RCMP say a warrant was issued for the arrest of 47-year-old Samuel Taylor on June 16 and he was taken into custody in Nanaimo the next day.  

He is facing charges of dangerous driving causing death and impaired driving causing death connected to the collision on Aug. 10 last year. 

“The victim’s family were advised of Taylor’s arrest. They also asked and consented that the name of their deceased family member be released to the public. Joy Pecknold died in the crash, she was 42-years old,” according to a news release from Nanaimo RCMP. 

Police say Taylor was released from custody and will make his first court appearance on June 24.

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The City of Powell River will have a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) starting next month. 

Sundance Topham has been appointed to the role by city council and will start in the position on July 7. 

Mayor Ron Woznow said council is excited to bring Sundance in, who brings experience in local government management and a strong track record. 

“This is a time of opportunity for our community, we are fortunate to have someone of Sundance’s caliber leading our administration.” 

Sundance previously served as CAO for the Village of Cumberland, CAO and Corporate Officer for the District of Wells, and Interim CAO for the District of Lantzville. 

He has a Diploma in Local Government Management from the University of Victoria and a Diploma in Communications from Camosun College. 

Sundance said he and his family are excited to get settled in Powell River. 

“I am eager to begin working with city staff, council, and community members to support the city’s ongoing priorities.” 

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Prince George residents are invited to attend the Parking Modernization Study open house next week.

On Wednesday, June 25th from 4 to 7 p.m., people can head to the House of Ancestors to learn about the feedback gathered through the parking survey, read the draft recommendations, and ask questions.

The preliminary recommendations were developed using resident feedback, identifying the current demand for parking in the downtown and hospital zones, and predicting future parking needs based on growth projections and mobility trends.

The public survey, which was hosted on the City website in April, received nearly 1,500 responses.

Feedback from participants included comments on a lack of available parking, on-street time limits and enforcement, safety concerns, confusing payment systems, limited number of accessible parking spaces and the parking cost.

“We received great feedback from residents, business owners, and partner organizations over the past several months and we look forward to sharing the draft recommendations with the public. Proposed strategies aim to make City-owned parking options safer, more accessible, and easier to understand,” said LEA transportation planning manager, Robert Keel.

“Suggested activities include improving parking signage, increasing safety and security measures, making the permit system more flexible, and improving accessible parking design.”

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Meet Mr. Boots. This handsome boy is as sweet as pie. Although he can be a bit timid at first, he warms up quickly. So quickly, in fact, that he sticks to you like glue. He would love a home that he got to go and do things with you all the time. He also would love a home that allowed him to curl up on the couch with you. We sometimes wonder if he knows how big he is because he seems to think he’s the size of a tea cup poodle. He is going to be a fantastic buddy in his forever home. Just look at that smile!

If he sounds like the dog for you, please fill out the pre-adoption questionnaire or call the center at 250-509-0297: https://adopt.spca.bc.ca/pets/783148/

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The former associate coach and director of player development with the Prince George Cougars is headed to the Professional Women’s Hockey League.

Steve O’Rourke was named head coach of the expansion Seattle franchise earlier today (Friday).

In addition, O’Rourke spent the past two and a half years with the Oshawa Generals of the Ontario Hockey League where he held the roles of associate coach and head coach.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Professional Women’s Hockey League,” said O’Rourke.

“This is something I’ve thought about since the league was first announced. To now be given the opportunity to work with the best players in the world and be part of a professional league that is thriving both on and off the ice is truly amazing. Being from the West and having played hockey in Washington State, I’ve seen first-hand how much the game has grown in this region. The passion and support for hockey here is real, and I’m proud to now be part of it in a new way. To have the opportunity to help shape the Seattle team alongside Meghan Turner and the players is something I don’t take for granted. It’s an exciting challenge, and I’m looking forward to building something special with this group.”

O’Rourke’s coaching résumé also includes three seasons as an assistant coach with the WHL’s Red Deer Rebels, one season as general manager and head coach of the BCHL’s Langley Rivermen, and two seasons as an assistant coach with the AHL’s Abbotsford Heat.

Bench boss incoming

We’re proud to welcome Steve O’Rourke as our first-ever head coach!
https://t.co/3RFJELMnKC pic.twitter.com/wstuHIhEbP

— PWHL Seattle (@PWHL__Seattle) June 20, 2025

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Goodsir Nature Park, just north of Prince George is holding its Shortest Night of the Year event, to celebrate the summer solstice.

Founder Jim Good told MyPGNow.com the event will run tomorrow (Saturday) from 10pm to 5am and should be quite spectacle providing Mother Nature cooperates.

“The northern ski doesn’t get fully dark this time of year and after 1am it very slowly starts to get brighter as we get on to two and three in the morning. The sun rises at 4:45.”

Good has been attending solstice-related events for the past 50 years and has become one of his passions.

“Back in those early years, I used to travel as far north as I could and if the solstice didn’t fall on that weekend it would be the closest weekend to it. I have a lot of fond memories of that.”

For anyone who wishes to come, they are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and guitar.

Good adds the Botanical Museum will be open all night, while the Vinyl Museum closes at midnight.

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RED Mountain Resort will officially open of Canada’s newest bike park, RED Mountain Bike Park, this Saturday, June 21, marking a bold new chapter in the resort’s evolution as a four-season destination.

Designed in collaboration with Gravity Logic—the world-renowned leaders in bike park design and development—the new park will offer an exhilarating mix of singletrack, jump lines, and flow trails that cater to riders of all skill levels.

The RED Mountain Bike Park is being developed as a multi-year project, with new trails and
features rolling out across the next three years.

From first-timers to advanced riders, every trail has been crafted to challenge, inspire, and reward. The goal: to create a park where beginners feel like experts and seasoned riders can still be humbled—a true playground of progression and possibility.

“We’ve always believed in keeping RED authentic, rugged, and community-driven,” said Andrew Lunt, General Manager at RED Mountain Resort.

“This bike park is an extension of that philosophy—building a space where every rider can feel the stoke, challenge their limits, and grow their skills. Partnering with Gravity Logic has allowed us to ensure that the trails meet the highest standards while still delivering that raw RED feel.”

At the heart of the project is a commitment to progression, with a trail network that will emphasize variety, accessibility, and rider development. Whether you’re looking for gentle
greens, fast flow, or technical descents, RED’s trail system will provide an experience that
evolves with the rider.

Gravity Logic, whose credits include some of the most celebrated bike parks in the world, brings their expertise to every berm, roller, and tabletop.

“We’re incredibly excited about what we’re building at RED,” said Dave Kelly of Gravity Logic.

“The terrain is exceptional, the vision is clear, and the passion from the RED team is real. This park is going to turn heads.”

RED Mountain’s summer expansion is part of a broader vision to transform the resort into a
year-round hub for outdoor adventure, anchored in its authentic Kootenay spirit and renowned natural terrain

RED Mountain appoints New President to guide vision

Red Mountain Resort has announced a major leadership transition that marks both the culmination of a 22-year legacy and the beginning of a bold new era.

After more than two decades at the helm, Howard Katkov, RED’s long-time CEO who has successfully led RED’s strategy of growth to preserve the resort’s fierce independence without disenfranchising the community of Rossland, will step down from his role as Chief Executive Officer. Katkov will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board, ensuring that RED’s ethos remains intact. Simultaneously, Don Thompson, President of RED Mountain Resort, will also transition out of his executive role while remaining an active member of the board.

Following an extensive international search, RED is proud to welcome Mark Schroetel as its new President, effective July 6, 2025.

With over 30 years of resort and industry leadership, Schroetel has a proven record of helping ski areas thrive—while staying true to their soul.

“For 22 years, I’ve poured my heart into this mountain,” said Howard Katkov. “Not to build a cookie-cutter resort, but to protect something real. RED stands for independence, character, and community. I couldn’t pass that legacy to just anyone. In Mark, I see someone who gets it—who understands that RED’s success lies in its authenticity, not in conforming to the status quo. I’m thrilled to support him as we take RED into its next chapter.”

Schroetel brings a rich and diverse background to RED. He served for 15 years as General Manager of Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania, where he oversaw a full-scale redevelopment of the resort. Later, he spent 8 years as General Manager and CEO at Utah’s Powder Mountain, North America’s largest skiable resort by acreage, where he helped define a differentiated skiing experience focused on preservation over profit.

But for Schroetel, RED is more than a career move—it’s personal.

“I’ve always been drawn to the Kootenays,” said Schroetel.

“In fact, I brought my dad here for his 60th birthday and returned to RED as a reward for completing my first year as a GM over two decades ago. When this opportunity came up, it felt like destiny. During a recent visit, my wife looked at me and said she’s never seen me so happy in the 16 years we’ve been together. I responded, ‘This is where I belong.’”

“I’m incredibly honored to join the team at RED and can’t wait to put down roots in Rossland. This is more than a job—it’s a commitment to community, to authenticity, and to keeping the dream of independent skiing alive.”

Schroetel’s appointment is the next step in that evolution—ushering in a future built not on acquisition or homogenization, but on independence, innovation, and respect for the mountain and the community of Rossland.

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It’s been 29 years since since Avril’s Room was first opened at the Cariboo Memorial Hospital (CMH) in Williams Lake.

Avril Chevigny was a much loved little girl that was diagnosed with cancer at six years old but lost her battle May 25^th, 1996 at the tender age of 8.

The community came together and helped raised $70,000 through the Avril Chevigny Fund to build Avril’s Room which has been used by many families visiting the Hospital’s Emergency Department since then.

Soon this precious space will be located in the new emergency department as part of the Hospital’s redevelopment and her memory will continue to live on and give comfort to those in it.

Andre Chevigny said he so excited that this room will continue to make a difference for many families.

“Her little playroom has helped so many people over the years. Whether it’s her playroom, her foundation, which even just as recently within the last six weeks, has helped a family with childhood cancer in Williams Lake navigate. I talk to them, I get to meet them and help them financially through Avril’s Fund. It’s just such a blessing that it’s been a healing for me over the years but it’s also nice that I can sit across from somebody and they can understand that I get it, I’ve been there and I sympathize with what’s going on their life.”

Chevigny said sometimes he visits Avril’s Room just by himself when no one is there because it’s a healing place for him and he remembers the names on the wall.

“Those are the people, it wasn’t just me, it wasn’t just the chevigny family, it was the community coming together with businesses and we all pulled together and we pulled this off.” Chevigny said, “During the Pandemic it became a very important room, they used it for the quarantine room so all of Avril’s memorabilia and furniture was moved out. It’s been part of the community for a lot of years and so was she and it makes me pretty proud.”

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Tuesday’s vehicle fire in Nelson’s downtown core was the result of a mechanical failure in the engine. 

Nelson Fire Rescue’s Assistant Chief, Rick Maida, says a preliminary investigation determined it was likely caused by something like an oil leak making contact with the vehicle’s exhaust manifold. 

“The preliminary investigation on that specific vehicle looks like maybe an engine compartment fire, or some kind of mechanical failure in the engine which made contact with the hot exhaust manifold and then ignited.” 

Thankfully, the blaze was quickly suppressed and resulted in no damage to surrounding vehicles or structures. However, Maida notes it’s a timely reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. 

“Keep up with your maintenance. If you have any kind of mechanical issues in your vehicle that are questionable – if you think something just doesn’t feel right or sound right – maybe have it checked out.” 

He also recommends investing in a vehicle fire extinguisher to ensure a quick response, just in case. 

There have been several reports of vehicle fires in the region since May, including one on Highway 3 at the Bombi Summit. 

It’s not unusual to see vehicle fires during the summer months, with Maida noting that heat can sometimes accelerate the flames. 

“Car fires can happen for various reasons, but the heat outside definitely helps expedite the fire, which will grow faster when it’s hot.” 

He says a burning oil or plastic smell inside the cabin can be a warning sign that something is wrong – at which point, he urges the public to get their vehicles checked as soon as possible. 

Those who witness or experience a vehicle fire should call 9-1-1 right away and, if possible, attempt to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher. 

If the flames are beyond the point of being put out with a fire extinguisher, Maida advises staying at least 100 feet away in case of an explosion. 

“The vehicle itself won’t explode, but sometimes the shocks and parts of the vehicle can explode, and there could be projectiles coming out of it. So you just want to make sure you’re a safe distance away.” 

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Good news for festival goers, BC Transit and the City of Cranbrook have announced that there will be a free shuttle servicing the Spirit of the Rockies Festival this Saturday, June 21.

This free shuttle will run from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. with several stops around Cranbrook, taking riders to the Spirit of the Rockies events.

Pick-up and drop-off locations:
• Downtown bus exchange
• Western Financial Place
• Kinsmen Quads
• Tamarack Centre
• Walmart
• Moir Park

For more information about the Spirit of the Rockies, click here.

For information regarding fares, trip planning and to sign up for customer alerts, please visit bctransit.com/cranbrook.

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Artemis Gold Inc has appointed Dale Andres as its new Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company.

The move takes effect on Monday (June 23). Andres has been a non-executive director of the company since May of 2023.

He most recently served as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Gatos Silver, Inc. until its recent acquisition for US$970 million. Prior to this, Andres enjoyed a distinguished career within Teck Resources Limited holding several upper management/executive positions.

In addition, Steven Dean, founder of the Company, will continue on as Executive Chair and Director.

Jeremy Langford is now President, with a sole focus on business growth, asset optimization, and development.

“Artemis Gold has achieved rapid growth and is expected to continue that pace with the next step focussed on optimizing the design and cost estimate for the Phase 2 expansion, with an expected investment decision by the Board later this year. Having Dale and Jeremy working as a team provides broader and even greater management bench strength which will allow for the contemporaneous optimization of Blackwater Phase 1 operations and the execution of the Phase 2 expansion,” said Dean.

The Blackwater Mine, south of Vanderhoof achieved commercial production earlier this year.

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The Engineers and Geoscientists of BC have filed a formal complaint against Prince George Mayor Simon Yu.

It’s regarding previous work from 2021 in support of a building permit for an addition to an existing cabin located on Cluculz Lake.

The complaint states despite not having sufficient geotechnical engineering expertise to provide such a certification, Yu wrote and authenticated a letter to the Regional District of BulkleyNechako in February of 2021 certifying that the 2 construction of a retaining wall was in “safe service condition ready to receive the roof trusses to form a storage/garage”, “while acting as soil retaining walls” and that he accepted “the concrete block work’s workmanship as a whole”.

In addition, both groups noted Yu authenticated eight drawings for the Project and thereby took responsibility for the overall design, including both geotechnical and structural aspects, despite those drawings being deficient and failing to comply with several requirements.

The Prince George Mayor is slated to attend hearings on July 18th as well as August 7th and 8th.

A link to the complaint can be found here.

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The Williams Lake RCMP responded to 297 calls for service from June 12-19, 2025.

Frontline officers responded to several calls that ranged from well-being checks to assaults. Officers made numerous arrests during their patrols.

Here are several of the more notable arrests made during the week.

June 12, 2025:

• Frontline officers arrested a man for breaching his conditions. The man was arrested and held for court with new charges.
• Officers received a report of an intoxicated man allegedly stealing items from a local grocery store. The man was arrested and held until sober.
• Frontline officers assisted BC Emergency Health Services with getting an elderly person medical assistance.
• Officers attended a disturbance and located heavily intoxicated woman who attempted to flee from officers. The woman was taken into custody.

June 13, 2025:

• A frontline officer located another man failing to comply with his conditions. He was arrested.
• An officer observed a motorcycle travelling well over the posted speed limit. The motorcycle was going 127km/hr in a posted 60km/hr zone. The bike was impounded and the driver was issued a violation ticket.
• Williams Lake RCMP received a report of a man staggering into the traffic in the middle of the night. The man was found to be intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and lodged in cells.
• A man with an outstanding warrant was located by an officer on patrol. The man was arrested and held for court.
• On a proactive patrol, an officer located and recovered suspected stolen property from an individual. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers were conducting a proactive patrol and located man who had been wanted since October 2024. The man was arrested and held for court.

June 14, 2025:

• Officers were called to a single vehicle rollover on Highway 20. The driver was transported to hospital. Investigation has led officers to believe the crash was related to speed and alcohol.
• Police observed a vehicle being driven poorly. The vehicle backed into another parked car. A traffic stop was conducted and officers found the driver to be impaired by alcohol. The driver was issued a 90-day driving prohibition and a 30-day vehicle impound.

June 16, 2025:

• A person was threatening people with a weapon outside a business on the 300 block of Proctor Street. Officers located the suspect and arrested them. The person was released with a future court date and conditions.
• Police were called about a man yelling about his cats being mistreated. Police and determined his cats were safe but he was not due to his angry demeanor. The man was arrested and lodged in cells.
• Officers were called to assist with an intoxicated person knocking on the wrong house door. The person was arrested and lodged in cells until sober.

June 17, 2025:

• An officer was actively engaged in community safety efforts and located a man breaching his conditions. The man was failing to comply with his condition to not in the community of Williams Lake. The officer went to arrested the man who attempted to flee but was swiftly taking into custody by the officer. The man was held in custody for court.
• Officers located a vehicle driving at a high rate of speed and conducted a traffic stop. The officers determined the driver was impaired. The driver was issued a 90-day driving prohibition and a 30-day vehicle impound.

June 18, 2025:

• Police were called to a report of vandalism at a local park. The suspects were arrested and identified as youth. Police utilized alternative measures and had the youth fix their mistake with the support of their guardians.
• An officer was conducting traffic safety enforcement and located a speeding vehicle. The vehicle was stopped and the officer determined the driver to be impaired by alcohol. The driver was issued a 90-day driving prohibition and 30-day vehicle impound.
• Later that evening another officer located another impaired driver and removed them and their vehicle off the road for 24 hours.

June 19, 2025:

• Officers responded to the report of a shoplifter at a local business.
• Officers were called to the Stampede Grounds were and unwanted person was spraying staff with a hose.

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MLB:

Arizona Diamondback 9  Toronto Blue Jays  5

The game summary is here.

The (40-34) Blue Jays take two of three from the (37-37) Diamondbacks.

A TWO-homer game for Kirk pic.twitter.com/xOShqkTsN7

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) June 19, 2025

Toronto is back in action tonight (Friday) when the host the Chicago White Sox (23-52).

====

Jared Young of Prince George did not play for the New York Mets in their 7-1 loss Thursday to the Atlanta Braves.

The 29-year-old is batting .148 (by going 4-for-27) with two homers and three RBI’s for the Mets since he was recalled on May 23rd from their Syracuse Triple A farm club.

How sweep it is https://t.co/tF2BPq0CFH pic.twitter.com/acsJLtFhPX

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) June 20, 2025

====

NBA Finals: 

Indiana Pacers 108 Oklahoma City Thunder 91

Six Pacers players reached double-digit points including former Raptor Pascal Siakam who secured a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.

“We worked so hard for this opportunity.”

Pascal Siakam on being appreciative of the chance to play Game 7 of the NBA Finals. pic.twitter.com/dN5fgFFZsI

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) June 20, 2025

The Thunder host Indiana in Game 7 of the Finals on Sunday at 5pm Pacific Time.

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (4) Indiana Pacers

• Game 1: Pacers 111, Thunder 110  (Thu. June 5)
• Game 2: Thunder 123, Pacers  107 (Sun. June 8)
• Game 3: Pacers  116, Thunder  107 (Wed. June 11)
• Game 4: Thunder 111, Pacers  104 (Fri. June 13)
• Game 5: Thunder  120  Pacers 109 (Mon. June 16)
• Game 6: Thunder 91 at Pacers 108 (Thu. June 19, 5:30 PT)
• Game 7: Pacers at Thunder (Sun, June 22, 5:00 PT) *
* if necessary

====

CFL:

Montreal Alouettes 38 Edmonton Elks 28

Als (3-0) quarterback Davis Alexander tossed three touchdowns passes before exiting the game with a hamstring injury. Edmonton drops to 0-2.

Jamais deux sans trois! DIRECTION HAMILTON!

That makes three! ONWARDS!#Alouettes pic.twitter.com/tk6l4N9gm4

— Alouettes de Montréal (@MTLAlouettes) June 20, 2025

Elsewhere in the league, the Saskatchewan Roughriders roll into Toronto to play the winless Argos (0-2) tonight (Friday).

The (1-1) B.C. Lions complete a home-and-home with the (1-0) Winnipeg Blue Bombers Saturday (4:00) in Vancouver.

Banged up Lions QB Nathan Rourke is listed as day-to-day.

Team lift days >

Fuelling up with @Gatorade #BCLions | #RoarAsOne pic.twitter.com/F4X1aWYq8o

— BC LIONS (@BCLions) June 20, 2025

Vernon Adams Jr. and the Calgary Stampeders put their perfect 2-0 record on the line against the Ottawa Red Blacks earlier in the day (1pm).

Hockey:

The Prince George Spruce Kings have announced that they will play their BCHL home opener for the 2025-26 season on September 26th against the Surrey Eagles.

The Prince George Cougars start their season with a home doubleheader against the Portland Winterhawks September 19th and 20th.

The WHL will release its full schedule next week.

=====

It was a busy start to the offseason for the Dallas Stars. They re-signed Matt Duchene to a 4-year, $18 million dollar extension.

He tallied 37 points in 69 games last season.

Dallas also dealt forward Mason Marchment to the Seattle Kraken for a pair of draft picks.

Dallas Dutchy ain’t leavin’

We have signed Matt Duchene to a 4-year contract extension through the 2028-2029 season.

MORE: https://t.co/iSHP8opLBS@shift4 | #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/jaHSLyiNlr

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) June 19, 2025

TRADE ALERT

We have acquired a 2026 third-round pick and 2025 fourth-round pick from the @SeattleKraken for Mason Marchment.

MORE: https://t.co/4daQXDYEHd@shift4 | #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/PqIixSkIJc

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) June 19, 2025

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An early morning robbery in a gas station just outside Nanaimo is now being investigated by the RCMP. 

Shortly before 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 18, a person robbed the Gas N Go on the Trans-Canada Highway near the intersection of Morden Road and Highway 1. 

The suspect walked into the business brandishing a knife and demanded an employee hand over an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise. 

The suspect then fled and no direction of travel was provided. 

The suspect is described as a man around 6’0 tall, a thin build, and in their late teens or early 20’s. 

The robber wore a blue t-shirt, dark pants, striped runners, a black ball cap, dark rimmed glasses, and their face was partially concealed by a white cloth. 

Any motorists in the area between 3:30 to 4:00 a.m. are asked to review their dash cam footage. 

Anyone with information on the robbery or who saw anything suspicious is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line. 

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Canada Post announced today (Thursday) an agreement was met with its second largest union, the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association.

This comes as the postal service and the Postal Workers Union continue to work out an agreeable contract.

Local CUPW 812 President Nicole Chouinard said the latest agreement isn’t a lead they will necessarily be following.

“It’s kind of like comparing apples and oranges. While it is a union with Canada Post, they represent kind of a different working structure than what we’re trying to negotiate through our talks, so it’s not a similar situation.”

The employees have been in a legal strike position since May 23rd, but have so far only placed a ban on overtime.

The union represents 55,000 workers across the country, as well as 200 in the Prince George area.

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Work has begun on replacing the skylight in the Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library.

The Skylight was originally installed in the 1980s, and according to the City, has reached the end of its service life.

At the May 5th meeting, Prince George City Council approved a budget increase of $250,000 for the project, bringing the total budget to $1.125 million.

“The skylight at the Bob Harkins Branch has developed leaks that pose a real risk to our facility, and to our collection every time it rains,” said Library Director Paul Burry.

“We are incredibly grateful to the City of Prince George for acting quickly to support this essential renovation.”

Residents are asked to obey all signage and be mindful of road and sidewalk closures surrounding the Bob Harkins branch.

The project is expected to be completed by late October.

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This weekend will see National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrated across the West Kootenay with events honouring the cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples.

Aligned with the summer solstice on June 21, Kris Salikin, Executive Director with a Circle of Indigenous Nations (COINS), said it is a day for all.

“It is a day for our community and celebrating our culture honouring, our culture and being with our community,” said Kris.

“Our gathering is open to all people who would like to come and celebrate and experience some culture with us.”

Saturday Events

Castlegar: Aboriginal Day – Hosted by the Circle of Indigenous Nations (COINS)
Saturday, June 21
10 AM–2 PM
Kinnaird Park, Castlegar, BC (2501 14 Ave)

Food, Aboriginal Culture & Traditions, Crafts, Games & Vendors, Door Prizes & Giveaways.
Everyone is welcome.

Nelson: Indigenous Day Celebrations – Hosted by the West Kootenay Métis Society
Saturday, June 21
11 AM–4 PM
Lakeside Park, Nelson, BC (910 Second St)

Rossland: Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at the Rossland Museum
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Open 10 AM–6 PM
Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre, Rossland, BC (1100 HwyBC-3B)

Open by Donation All Day!
New Sinixt Foundations Exhibit, Discover Indigenous Basketry, Listen to Stories from Sinixt Knowledge-Keepers, & Watch the Short Film Learning mxiɬp: Cedar in the Sinixt Homeland.

Grand Forks: Hosted by Boundary Family Services and Gallery 2
Saturday, June 21
11 AM–3 PM
Gallery 2 – Grand Forks Art Gallery, Grand Forks, BC (524 Central Ave)

Arts & Crafts, Water Balloon Fun, Fry Bread, Drinks, Snacks, & More! ~ Bring your own hand drum

Greenwood: Hosted by Boundary Métis Community Association
Saturday, June 21
Starts at 10 AM
Greenwood Ball Park, Greenwood, BC

Food, Tipi Raising, Drumming, Boundary Youth Powwow Dancers, Indigenous Vendors, Indigenous Games & Scavenger Hunt ~ Bring your lawn chair & hand drums.

Sunday events

Trail: Kootenay South Metis Association and will be hosting the Indigenous People’s Day
Sunday, June 22
11AM to 4PM
Gyro Park, Trail
Guest speakers, drumming and connection with elders. Crafts, games and storytelling for the kids.

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The BC River Forecast Centre issued a flood watch for the East Kootenay as potential heavy, prolonged rain is in the forecast through the weekend.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) says residents should stay aware and be prepared for potential localized flooding, highway impacts and rapid changes on waterways.

RDEK officials say their Flood Response Unit will be tracking conditions through the weekend and are encouraging residents in flood-prone areas to take steps to protect themselves and their properties.

“Self-fill sandbag stations have been set up in Fairmont behind the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course on Hot Springs Road and in the lot south of the Elk River Inn on Highway 3 in Hosmer,” said RDEK officials.

“The sandbag stations have sand and bags; however, residents need to bring their own shovels and gloves. Additional sandbag stations will be set up around the region as conditions warrant.”

Environment Canada is predicting 40 to 60 millimetres of rainfall across the East Kootenay, with higher totals possible for high elevations.

“Preparedness and safety are key. Know the numbers to call, have a family emergency plan, plan ahead now to protect your property from flooding if you are in a low-lying or flood prone area, and ensure you stay well back from waterways as rapid, unpredictable changes in water levels are possible,” said Christina Carbrey RDEK Protective Services Manager.

More resources can be found from the RDEK here, or you can find information from the B.C. government here.

You can report wide-scale flooding by calling 250-489-9677.

“While precipitation at this time of year is generally welcome, the potential for heavy downpours within short periods of time in this approaching system does increase the potential for localized flooding, debris flows, and dangerous driving conditions, so we hope residents will monitor the situation and take action as needed,” said Carbrey.

You can sign up for the Evacuation Notification System here, which notifies registered users of emergencies impacting their properties through landline, mobile phones or text.

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A Cowichan Valley man who provides wheelchair accessible transportation says recent news about a Woss man given a taxi ride to an appointment in Victoria shows the complexities behind the transportation assistance offered by Island Health. 

The story was originally reported by CHEK TV in Victoria and the man said he believed taking a taxi, rather than having milage reimbursed to a volunteer driver was ridiculous. 

Rob Darwin uses a wheelchair and founded This Rides 4 U a little more than three years ago to help people who face similar barriers. His business provides rides to and from medical appointments, as well as other services, and he says it is more complex than it may seem on the surface.  

“It’s quite fulfilling to be able to provide a service that you know, basically these people, they experience barriers with their transportation,” he says.   

Some of his clients make use of Island Health’s Travel Assistance Program, which he says helps him remove barriers and helps people get where they need to be.   

“Island Health looks at providing a safe and a proper transportation service and sometimes they have to hire transportation providers, like myself, and nobody actually realizes how complex it is,” he says.  

He says to transport people, there are many things required behind the scenes aside from driving passengers. This includes properly maintaining vehicles and having the required licensing and insurance.  

“We can get uncle Bob or we can get a family member to go and transport somebody – is it a safe transportation? Is it something that may or may not, to the onlooker, be expensive or less expensive,” he says, adding there are many complexities to providing the service.  

“I don’t think there is anything more that Island Health could even do. I think they are providing an absolutely stunning, wonderful service,” he says. “At the end of the day, a lot of people are not even aware that these things are provided to us.” 

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The war rages on, but the City of Fernie is making ground against invasive weeds in the community.

Spectrum Resource Group has been conducting Fernie’s invasive weed program.

Nathan O’Reilley with Spectrum says they’ve been able to make good progress.

“Overall 2024 was deemed successful,” he said.

“Not all work sites were managed but we did find new sites. The priority system we created seems to be working really well.”

There were 58 unique sites with invasive plants, which was an increase, but O’Reilley says the area size was lower.

“In 2022 we found 46 sites, which moved up to 52 sites in 2023 and then 58 in 2024. Although this seems alarming at first, if you actually dig into the numbers, we’re finding more sites, but the treatments are proving to be successful.”

There were 6.114 hectares infested with priority invasive plants, down from 8.896 hectares the year prior.

St. Johns Wort is the most prominent and concerning invasive plant in the city at 21 sites covering 3.441 hectares.

The company will be continuing its work this year.

Residents are also encouraged to do their part in reducing the spread of invasive plants.

Prevention includes not purchasing invasive plants from greenhouses, not planting invasive species in gardens, not removing plants from other locations and taking them home and dumping garden clippings in the forest.

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Elkford Mayor Steve Fairbairn says the new urgent and primary care centre (UPCC) is a much-needed addition to local health care.

“It holds significant potential for improved services in Elkford, and it’s the biggest positive change I’ve seen in a long time,” said Fairbairn.

“It’s great, and I’ve made use of it myself already.”

The UPCC opened on Wednesday, May 21, and has been helping patients ever since.

Fairbairn says the new facility has filled long-existing gaps in Elkford’s health care.

“It offers more services than there was before and thee are more people working there, including associated professionals,” said Fairbairn.

“Elkfordians should have to travel less than they did before because it’s now in place and there are more service hours.”

Previously, Elkford’s Emergency Department closed on Sept. 29, 2021.

Fairbairn says fewer Elkford residents travelling for care could take pressure off healthcare facilities in neighbouring communities.

“Its existence, with more people working, should draw attention from regional health authorities because there is more staffing,” said Fairbairn.

I suspect that administrators would see some stress taken off Sparwood and Fernie if Elkfordians are getting the healthcare they need in Elkford.”

Fairbairn says the community now only lacks an emergency department, which he does not expect anytime soon.

“We’re not going to have an emergency department and we’re not going to be able to do life-saving emergency operations, nor have we ever been able to,” said Fairbairn.

For now, emergency care is done in the Fernie Hospital or East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook.

That said, Fairbairn is grateful for the expansion to local healthcare.

“I’m pleased we have a UPCC in our community, and I’m really looking forward to how things will go in the future,” said Fairbairn.

“I appreciate the money that was spent on that building to upgrade it to handle that facility. It’s a grreat new facility and I’m happy to see it.”

Elkford’s new UPCC was built into the existing Elkford Health Centre and is co-located with other community health services, X-ray and lab services.

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Prince George City Council will discuss the 30th anniversary celebration for the CN Centre at Monday’s Meeting.

The item first came to Council back in May, where Council voted to have Administration return a report with a plan for the event.

“The community will be invited to participate in a FREE event that will be a fun, accessible, safe and highly enjoyable opportunity for our residents to come together and celebrate what many consider to be a “jewel in our crown”, with the CN Centre providing sporting, music, cultural, convention, trade shows, and many other events to literally millions of visitors over its 30 year history,” a staff report to Council states.

The event is planned for September 28th, 2025, the exact 30th anniversary of when Mayor John Backhouse opened the Prince George Multiplex in 1995.

The staff report also states that administration is proposing to incorporate two other celebrations into the event; the City’s annual International Students Welcome and Volunteer Appreciation event.

According to the report, the CN Centre will be transformed to an event that honours the “Multiplex” theme.

The plan is to have a stage inside the CN Centre with live music, public skating, food and beverage, and more.

At Monday’s meeting, City Council will vote on approving $15,000 from the Council Contingency Fund to put on the event.

Council Contingency Fund was set at $50,000 for 2025. City Council approved $1,100 from the fund at its last meeting for sweeping the new paved trails at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club, but has not been touched otherwise.

Administration also proposed combining the budgets from the Volunteer Appreciation Event and International Students Welcome ($20,000) to put towards the event.

Also on the agenda for Monday’s meeting is a number of annual reports, as well as the next step for the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games bid.

The full agenda for Monday’s meeting can be found here.

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The Martin Lake area wildfire in the Chilcotin continues to be fought by BC Wildfire Service crews.

Fire Information Officer Jessica Mack said they did see minimal growth yesterday (Wednesday) and is currently estimated to be 2258 hectares in size and a lot of that growth is due to more accurate tracking that was done on the incident.

“We continue to have ground crews that will remain on site with more resources that are being mobilized over the weekend and heavy equipment worked into the night. We continue to seek progress being made to secure the control lines and improve access for our crews.”

Mack noted that they currently do have assessments that are underway for potential planned ignitions and that is just to help bring the fire perimeter to the control line, to remove that unburnt fuel, and to help slow and stop the fire’s spread.

“Really strengthen those containment lines on the flank of that fire and that really just provides us with a more safe and reliable line to work from and we continue to receive support from our aviation resources,” Mack said.

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Curbside garbage pickup could be coming to the Red Bluff community this fall.

A Request For Proposal (RFP) on a contract for weekly curbside garbage collection has been put out by the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) earlier this month.

Tera Grady, the Manager of Solid Waste for the CRD, says the garbage collection would be a new service for the Red Bluff community.

“In 2023, we surveyed the residents of Red Bluff, and 70 per cent of the respondents were in favour of the service,” Grady says. “Some are currently hiring private garbage collection, but the bonus for this service is that all the residents will have Recycle BC supplied recycle curbside recycling pick up, the same as what City of Quesnel residents receive now.”

According to Grady, there has been a lot of planning and mapping of the Red Bluff area to determine how many homes are accessible for the service, and if the community meets the province’s criteria of size to have the service.

The RFP asks possible collection contractors to be able to serve 1,275 residential homes in Red Bluff, as well as eight trailer parks, for the weekly garbage collection. The collected garbage will be taken to the City of Quesnel’s landfill.

Grady says there are five communities the CRD is looking to implement weekly curbside garbage pickup in, and Red Bluff is the largest.

The CRD will supply 246 curbside tote bins initially for the automated collection. The awarded contractor will be responsible for the initial delivery of the totes, as well as replacing totes as part of the five-year contract.

Grady says the CRD is “unsure” of what the cost to residents for the service will be as of right now.

“The actual cost of collection will be dependent on the proposals that we receive when the [RFP] closes next month,” Grady says.

“We are targeting to roll out the service for October; however, we won’t have an exact date until we get a contractor. Once we have that date, the residents will be receiving correspondence about when [the service] will be rolled out and how they will be billed.”

The closing date of the RFP is July 9, 2025.

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UNBC President Dr. Geoff Payne will be taking on a new leadership role, stepping down from his position with the University.

The announcement was made this afternoon (Thursday), where the University stated that he will be joining the Michael Smith Health Research Council BC as the organization’s President and CEO.

Dr. Payne was a founding faculty member of the UBC Northern Medical Program (NMP) in 2004, serving in a number of leadership roles including Vice-President Research, the inaugural Assistant Dean for Education and Research with the NMP and as the founding Director of UNBC’s Health Research Institute.

The University said the Board is committed to a transparent and deliberate search process for its next President and Vice-Chancellor and will be seeking a leader who shares the University community’s vision.

Dr. Payne was named UNBC’s sixth President in April 2022, after being appointed on an interim basis in 2020.

He was reappointed last July.

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The Prince George RCMP is asking the public to keep an eye out for 33-year-old Samantha Loreen Evans.

According to police, she was last seen near Tenth Avenue and Victoria Street on June 3rd.

She is described as:

• Indigenous female
• 173 cm or 5′ 8″
• 66 kg or 146 lb
• Brown Hair
• Brown eyes

“Samantha’s family is very concerned for her well-being,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“Investigators are asking that if anyone sees her, they call the Prince George RCMP non-emergency line at 250-561-3300.”

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Residents on the Woodland Heights Water System near Taghum have moved to Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures effective immediately due to high water consumption resulting in continuous operation of the well pump and reduced reservoir levels.

The RDCK said excessive irrigation and irrigation system leakage may be responsible for the increased demand are requesting customers check irrigation systems for leaks and adhere to the permitted irrigation hours.

Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures Include

• Watering of lawns, gardens, trees, and shrubs is ONLY permitted between 6:00 am – 10:00 am and 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
• Watering of gardens, trees, and shrubs by watering can or handheld hose is still permitted anytime.

Stage 2 Water Conservation Measures will remain in effect until further notice.

Stricter water conservation measures may be required if demand increases further, hot and dry weather persists, or if the reservoir declines to critically low levels.

Click here for a complete description of RDCK water conservation measures stages 1 through 4 or visit www.rdck.ca/water.

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The 22-year-old middle distance runner from Nelson is coming off a second-place finish in the men’s 800 metres at the NCAA championships on his home track at the University of Oregon.

Matti Erickson came in as the NCAA indoor men’s 800 metre champion and admits there were internal and external targets on his chest.

“There was a bit of pressure on me before the race,” said Matti.

“Some expectations from outward sources and internal pressure as well because I wanted to continue the success I had from indoors,” he explained, but mental preparations going into the final were basic.

“It was executing on the day, making sure that I optimized my performance to the best of my abilities and I made a couple of mistakes here and there, but ultimately I was able to pull off second place so I was really happy with that,” said the university graduate.

Matti says a busy summertime of racing against professionals and other university grads will include the Canadian Championships and with it a chance to qualify for the World championships in Japan.

“And qualifying for that means being top four at the Canadian National Championships and then also running the time qualifying standard for the World Championships, which right now is about a second less than what I’ve run this season,” he explained.

Matti feels his college track career has been a huge success.

“I haven’t accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I’m just so grateful that I’ve been able to make the jumps in training and in racing that I have, have all this life experience, yeah, really, really grateful for the experiences that I’ve had at the University of Oregon,” said Matti, who also reflected back to his high school days.

“Training at Lakeside Park, having no access to a track, just a soccer field, vs now training at one of the premier track facilities in the world,” he mused.

Matti said none of this would have been possible without the dedication and support of his parents, his track coach and the entire Nelson community.

“I look back and think, like wow, what did I do to deserve this opportunity?”

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The City of Nelson’s payroll grew by over $2.4 million last year compared to 2023, according to its Statement of Financial Information.  

Council approved the City’s 2024 Annual Report on June 18. Local governments are required to prepare and approve the report before June 30 each year.  

The report aims to provide the public with a clear understanding of the City’s financial position and activities over the past year. It discloses all vendors who were paid more than $25,000 and employees who earned more than $75,000.  

There were 112 City employees who earned at least that amount in 2024, and 173 vendors who were paid more than $25,000.  

Salaries  

The City paid out $16,421,588 in salaries and $360,930 in expenses last year, for a grand total of $16,782,512.  

This is a $2,428,993 increase from the $14,353,519 paid out in salaries and expenses in 2023.  

The totals include remunerations paid to City staff, Nelson Fire & Rescue Services members, and Nelson Hydro employees.  

However, they do not include the police department, whose salaries have historically not been made public.  

Three Nelson Fire & Rescue Services members were among the highest earners, which CAO Kevin Cormack says is largely because the City and Fire Service finalized a new collective agreement last year that originally expired in 2019.  

“There’s four years of retro payments in their salaries there. So it all shows up in this one year. So that’s not the typical salary of firefighters. It’s the retro impact of almost five years of not having a collective agreement.” 

The top earners among staff were:  

For elected officials: 

The total paid to councillors was up $6,505 from 2023, with expenses increasing by $4,244.  

The City’s long-term debt stood at $4.9 million at the end of 2024, representing a $1 million decrease from the year prior.  

Expenses increased by $5 million, or 10 per cent, in 2024. This can be attributed to general wage increases, one-time grant-funded expenses, and inflationary pressures the City says have affected the price of materials and supplies.  

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With much of the snowpack gone, the level of Cowichan Lake has fallen to 64 per cent, prompting concern over how to best manage the Cowichan River during what is expected to be another dry summer.

Brian Houle, the Environmental Manager at Domtar’s Crofton pulp mill, says they have yet to see the water level in Cowichan Lake start to drop by one full centimeter per day, but he expects that will happen soon, once the snowpack is completely gone.

He warns 2025 will be a much more complicated year, because of what happened in 2023 in the Cowichan River.

Low water levels, hot dry weather, warmer water temperatures and algae growth combined to cause one-hundred thousand juvenile fish to die in a section of the river.

“We are holding the flow at seven CMS (Cubic Metres per Second) now,” according to Houle, “and we hope to hold it as long as we can to ensure healthy conditions for the fish.”

However, he says at this time there is not enough water to reach late October in this condition.

Houle says in the past they’ve been able to successfully reduce the flow into the river down to four-and-a-half cubic metres per second, but that may not be enough this summer.

He says work is currently underway to develop a plan for managing the river flows, and it may be necessary to use pumps later in the year to maintain the required flow of water from the lake into the river this autumn.

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The Trail Smoke Eaters continue to recruit locally with the team announcing the signings of three West Kootenay prospects after strong performances at the local I-D camp.

18-year-old Brayden Rotach of Castlegar originally committed to the Smokies last summer, but missed training camp with an injury.

The forward decided to suit up with his hometown Rebels of the KIJHL, where he had 13 goals and 31 points in 30 games.

Rotach got into the Smoke Eaters lineup during the final weekend of the regular season, picking up two assists in two games, with Coach and GM Tim Fragle impressed with his hockey I-Q.

“We like his details and overall skill set,” said Fragle, as he got a first hand look at the forward during road games in Vernon and West Kelowna.

“Brayden played strong games for us last year and had a very good I-D camp performance.  He earned this opportunity through competition,” he added.

17-year-old Maddox Gandha of Trail also signed his name on the dotted line.

The 6′ left shot forward had strong finish to his season with the CSSL Champion RINK Kelowna Academy U-18 Preps, catching the eye of Fragle and his staff.

“Maddox is a hard working two-way forward who is highly competitive,” noted Fragle.

“He is a smart player that will bring strong play-making ability and versatility to the lineup,” according to the bench boss.

Gandha put up 12 goals and 35 points last season in 35 games.

Another member of the RINK Kelowna championship program will also compete for a stall in the Smokies dressing room this fall.

Brady Walker scored 24 goals and 47 points in 40 games last season with the U-18 Preps, and also showed the Smokies brass on-ice intelligence and skill.

“He is a lanky right shot with potential and can make plays under pressure in tight spaces,” said Fragle.

The 6’1″ forward from Montrose turns 17 in early July.

Trail’s Judah Makway wrapped up his three-season stint as a Smokie last spring.

The big power-forward is headed to the University Alaska-Anchorage next fall to start his NCAA Division-1 career.

17-year-old Defenseman Owen McCarthy is getting ready for his second season in a Smokies uniform.

Goalie Chayse Johnson of Trail is a strong contender to earn one of the two spots between the pipes.

He too played in the Smokies final game of the regular season in West Kelowna and made some sensational saves.

The 17-year-old is coming off an outstanding season with the Okanagan U-18 Preps.

Johnson was 17-4-2 during the regular season with two shutouts, a 2.41 GAA and .927 SP.

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A dangerous chase involving a stolen fishing boat off the Prince Rupert coast Monday night has led to one man being arrested. 

The fishing boat was reported stolen out of Port Hardy on Sunday, June 15, and had been spotted south of Prince Rupert the next day. 

RCMP and a West Coast Marine Services vessel responded and attempted to intercept the boat, but the situation escalated with the operator trying to evade police on the water in the dark. 

The operator allegedly fired flares at police, attempted to ram a responding RCMP vessel, and was using the boat’s VHF radio to threaten police. 

The pursuit lasted for more than an hour and ended after the suspect ran the fishing boat aground where police safely arrested them. 

Acting Seargeant with West Coast Marine Services Cpl. Jeff Haney said there was a high level of risk involved given the unpredictable actions of the operator. 

“We are glad this situation was safely resolved with the suspect being taken into custody, with nobody getting injured.” 

The operator was a 25-year-old man and charges will be recommended against him. 

The stolen boat was recovered and towed from the area. 

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A man has been issued a large fine after an encounter with dolphins last year. 

Stephen Michael White was fined $5,000 in Campbell River Provincial Court for speeding towards a pack of Pacific white-sided dolphins on a jet ski. 

White came within a few feet of the pod in Broughton Strait near Port McNeill while filming them on his cell phone in August 2022, closer than the 100 metre legal approach distance under the Marine Mammal Regulations. 

The court determined his actions were reckless and also issued a six month ban from operating a motorized vessel on water and prohibited from posting anything related to marine mammals on social media. 

The case is the first successful prosecution in Canada under the Marine Mammal Regulations approach distance provisions. 

The species relies on echolocation to navigate their environment and close encounters with a vessel can disrupt their natural behaviours and interfere with essential sound signals used for communicating, foraging, and socializing. 

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Little by little, the wildfire situation in BC’s Peace Region is showing signs of improvement.

Today (Thursday), the BC Wildfire Service stated the Kiskatinaw River Wildfire, 60 kilometres south of Dawson Creek is being held.

The 26,623 hectare blaze has been trending in the right direction in recent days thanks to some much-needed rain last weekend.

On Wednesday, the Peace River Regional District rescinded an evacuation order surrounding the blaze.

Evacuation Order Six, issued on June 13th, has been replaced with an evacuation alert.

The PRRD noted an evacuation alert or order may be reissued if the wildfire situation changes or worsens.

Additionally, the BC Wildfire Service issued an area restriction around the wildfire on Tuesday.

An online map tool for the PRRD’s Evacuation Alerts and Orders can be found here.

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A study on the housing situation in Rossland predicts the city will need 186 additional units of varying sizes over the next five years and 623 more in the next 20 years.

Mayor Andy Morel says the study confirms there is a substantial rental housing shortage and that is not surprising, but it does provide specific information.

“As far as details of age groups, single vs family, couples vs family, multi-family,” he explained.

The study lists rents currently range between $800/month for a room, to $2,775/month for a four-bedroom house.

The average prices for homes range between $245,000 for a one-bedroom unit, to $935,000 for a five-bedroom home.

Morel says creativity and partnerships will be keys toward building new housing and keeping them affordable will be difficult.

“There has been discussions that there is potential for doing some multi-family stuff in town, but of course market housing is so expensive right now and the cost of building housing is very expensive,” Morel stated.

“To be able to do it affordably, to actually call housing affordable these days is a real challenge,” the mayor added.

Municipalities are required by the province to commission housing studies.

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Changes are coming to the City of Courtenay’s waste collection routes in hopes of making them more efficient. 

Starting July 2, solid waste collection schedules and zones will be adjusted in an ongoing effort to streamline service and align schedules with the city’s regional partners. 

City Manager of Public Works Services Chris Thompson said automated collection has increased the reliability of curbside collection services in Courtenay. 

“We had anticipated making this schedule adjustment mid-way through 2025 as Emterra refined their collection routes, and that’s why the previous 2025 schedule covered only January through June. 

Many households are expected to see a change to their collection day, with updated maps and schedules to be delivered by mail or available online. 

Organics will continue to be collected weekly, with garbage and recycling alternating between biweekly and non-weekly. 

The new schedule will also continue using the ‘add-a-day’ calendar, shifting collection days by one day after statutory holidays. 

The updated schedule will introduce new schedules for collection zones A, B, C, and D across Courtenay. 

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There are no shortage of activities planned for National Indigenous Peoples Day at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park on Saturday.

It will consist of a full lineup of Indigenous artisans, musicians drummers, dancers and activities.

Kym Gouchie, who is one of the organizers for the PG event says everyone is welcome.

“I know that there are so many people who feel like there is a divide between our cultures but this provides that bridge and that opening, welcoming space for people to come on in.”

“This is a day where people are welcomed into a space where Indigenous people, culture and teachings and cultural sharing are on display. It’s us showing what we do on a daily basis and that gives a chance to gather people and show who we are.”

Gouchie, a long time Indigenous musician and visual artist, was nominated for the JUNO award for Children’s Album of the Year.

She is kicking off the festivities with a performance at the PG Playhouse Friday evening.

Gouchie is blessed to showcase her talents on such a momentous occasion.

“It’s wonderful to be able to share my music in my community and to inspire the youth of the community or any aspiring musicians that want to step out. I love being able to show what is possible.”

“It’s quite a story and quite a journey that got me here and I love that I am able to share with my new children’s album and getting the kids engaged.”

Gouchie added this year’s day focuses on quality with longer performances instead of a series of shorter ones.

According to the Northern Indigenous Arts Council, the title of the event, Braiding in the Land is a reflection of the Council’s ongoing work to connect Indigenous artists and communities across the North.

The event runs from 10am to 5pm.

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Powell River council is being asked to approve an application for the expansion of the Coast Guard’s station on Marine Avenue.  

Council will meet today to discuss the proposed expansion that is said to include a new workshop building, disaster response shed, and storage shed, but before the applicant can apply for a permit, council must approve the development permit.  

The city will face two possible options, to approve or not approve.  

A staff report says if council approves the permit, it will allow the applicant to apply for the building permit and move closer to construction.  

However, should they deny the application then amendments will be needed before a permit is granted, which could require a new building design and layout.  

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The District of Sparwood is supporting a draft joint use agreement with School District 5.

The joint use agreement was first negotiated back in 1986 and allows the school district to access certain district recreation spaces at no cost, provided that no additional staff resources are required and vice versa.

The previous agreement ran out in 2021 and the district and SD5 have been operating as status-quo as neither party wanted to terminate it.

Staff began working on an updated joint agreement in 2023 but several staff changes within SD5 delayed it until now.

Under the draft agreement, properties available for booking include the arena, sports fields, track, courts, fitness centre and community hall.

The district will have access to spaces within Frank J. Mitchell and Sparwood Secondary Schools.

The agreement will come back to council for adoption at a future meeting.

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With National Indigenous Peoples Day coming up on Saturday, the Ktunaxa Kinbasket Child and Family Service Society (KKCFSS) kicked off festivities with a celebration in Cranbrook’s Rotary Park.

The KKCFSS says this year’s theme was “ksukiⱡ̓q̓ukamaⱡnam,” which is Ktunaxa for “community.”

Amy Cross, Rocky Mountain Metis Association Board Member, says the event was a huge hit.

“We had a ton of people here with us celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day. We have representatives from our First Nations, metis and a lot of allies who are here to support our community,” said Cross.

“We decided to do community as our theme this year because we know how important community is to support our Indigenous people. We brought in community members from all kinds of places so people can access services, learn about them and speak with different representatives.”

The event featured drumming, traditional dancing, booths, food, speeches and other amenities.

“We at KKCFSS love honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day with a family-friendly event that celebrates and uplifts Indigenous culture,” said Smokii Sumac, KKCFSS Cultural Lead.

While National Indigenous Peoples Day is officially June 21, KKCFSS decided to host celebrations early, on Wednesday, June 18, to avoid competing with another local event.

“Since Spirit of the Rockies is this weekend, we decided to celebrate it on Wednesday. This way, we could also be inclusive to school groups,” said Cross.

“KKCFSS supports Indigenous youth, so we thought it would be important to encompass a multitude of people into this event.”

More events are planned around the region this weekend, including the 29th annual Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it Border Walk, which is meant to bring awareness to the Canada/US border dividing the Ktunaxa nation.

ʔaq̓am is hosting a dinner with music on June 21, followed by the 2025 ʔaq̓am Community Education Awards on Sunday, June 22.

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Eddie Mountain Division KIJHL teams have been busy the offseason trading the player rights for players.

Earlier this month, the Kimberley Dynamiters acquired the rights for forward Maguire Nicholson from the Sicamous Eagles in return for forward Marcus Cyr and future considerations.

Nicholson tallied 10 goals and 19 assists in 32 games for the Eagles last season.

The Ghostriders traded forward Braeden Jack for forward Walker Overwater from the Eagles.

Overwater put up two goals and 19 assists in 23 games.

The Ghostriders also acquired the playing rights to forward Hayden Evans from the eagles for forward Riley Enns and and defenceman Easton Zenko.

Hayden Evans scored 20 goals and and 27 assists in 44 games.

The Columbia Valley Rockies dealt forward Noah Asmundson to the Estevan Bruins for future considerations.

The Creston Valley Thunder Cats also joined the action trading away defenceman Brayden Gosselin to the Soo Thunderbirds for future considerations.

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A flash free tire giveaway is saying ‘good-bye’ in a way to the community, today, June 19.

Bee Jay Auto Wrecking & Towing closed early in June, and the auto wrecking portion of its business. The owners are letting the Williams Lake community take as many of the tires from their yard as they can for free.

“Ken and I decided it would be a good thing to do for our customers who we’ve had over the years,” says Tiki Preeper. Preeper’s husband, Ken, has owned the Auto Wrecking & Towing shop for over 30 years in Williams Lake.

“It’s good for the environment, and it’s good for kids who are just starting out and need a set of winter tires.”

The wife and husband duo officially closed the shop as they prepare for retirement.

Preeper thanks all of their customers they have met over the years, and they were happy to be a part of the Williams Lake community.

The tires are free to anyone who goes and picks them up. Customers will have to know their tire measurements and match the tires themselves.

Preeper says since opening this morning, she has already given away more than 40 tires, and plans to continue the giveaway until they are all gone.

While the Auto Wrecking part of the business is saying adieu, Preeper assures the community that the towing aspect “is staying and still going strong”.

The post Local Auto Wreckers Giving Away Free Tires as Business Closes appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

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UPDATE as of Jun. 6 at 8:50 a.m., donations totalling over $20,000 have come in to help support Nourish Cowichan to donate, email Fatima Da Silva.

The need for food has increased across the region and Nourish Cowichan has been answering the call, but they say help is needed to provide meals to kids. 

The fifth annual Sun-a-thon is underway to help raise money to feed an estimated 2,700 students in 23 schools, but as the cost-of-living increases, Nourish Cowichan says they’ve seen the need for food in schools grow by over 35 per cent.  

Since 2022, Nourish Cowichan has supplied an increased amount of weekend grocery bags starting with 12,473, climbing to over 17,000 in 2023/2024 and the following year had an estimated 19,000. 

Nourish Cowichan executive director Fatima Da Silva says each year the need increases, and partnering with the community to raise funds to feed students in need is heartwarming and inspiring.  

“I never take this for granted,” she says. “It’s so heartwarming for all of us, and we look forward to it. 

“It also gives us a chance to be here and meet donors and have a good laugh while we do something so meaningful.”  

It’s estimated the operating costs for; last year were over $1.3 million and co-founder/executive director Fatima Da Silva says it will cost more as the need grows. 

“We’re going to be around $1.5 or $1.6 million this year,” she says. “We would like to know what the cost is going to be, but we don’t like to get tied up with a strict budget. 

“This allows us to always say yes to another student or family, it also allows us to work with our suppliers to get the best prices we can.”  

The Old Farm Market is one of Nourish Cowichan’s suppliers, and manager Chris Steel says helping a program that supports kids and helps combat hunger is one he couldn’t turn down, especially as the need grows. 

“It’s impossible not to get inspired when you hear the stories and see the facility, and meet the people,” he says. “Everyone wants to feed kids, but it’s a whole other thing when you’re integrated into seeing what it looks like. 

“Ever since then, it has been a real mission for us at the market to support whatever they do.” 

The Sun-a-thon runs until Jun. 20 at 6 p.m. and in the last four years has helped raise over $180,000.  

Nourish Cowichan is a non-profit that currently has three full-time staff, three part-time staff as well as a team of 70 volunteers.  

The post Update: Sun-a-thon kicks off to help raise money for Nourish Cowichan  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The need for food has increased across the region and Nourish Cowichan has been answering the call, but they say help is needed to provide meals to kids. 

The fifth annual Sun-a-thon is underway to help raise money to feed an estimated 2,700 students in 23 schools, but as the cost-of-living increases, Nourish Cowichan says they’ve seen the need for food in schools grow by over 35 per cent.  

Since 2022, Nourish Cowichan has supplied an increased amount of weekend grocery bags starting with 12,473, climbing to over 17,000 in 2023/2024 and the following year had an estimated 19,000. 

Nourish Cowichan executive director Fatima Da Silva says each year the need increases, and partnering with the community to raise funds to feed students in need is heartwarming and inspiring.  

“I never take this for granted,” she says. “It’s so heartwarming for all of us, and we look forward to it. 

“It also gives us a chance to be here and meet donors and have a good laugh while we do something so meaningful.”  

It’s estimated the operating costs for; last year were over $1.3 million and co-founder/executive director Fatima Da Silva says it will cost more as the need grows. 

“We’re going to be around $1.5 or $1.6 million this year,” she says. “We would like to know what the cost is going to be, but we don’t like to get tied up with a strict budget. 

“This allows us to always say yes to another student or family, it also allows us to work with our suppliers to get the best prices we can.”  

The Old Farm Market is one of Nourish Cowichan’s suppliers, and owner Chris Steel says helping a program that supports kids and helps combat hunger is one he couldn’t turn down, especially as the need grows. 

“It’s impossible not to get inspired when you hear the stories and see the facility, and meet the people,” he says. “Everyone wants to feed kids, but it’s a whole other thing when you’re integrated into seeing what it looks like. 

“Ever since then, it has been a real mission for us at the market to support whatever they do.” 

The Sun-a-thon runs until Jun. 20 at 6 p.m. and in the last four years has helped raise over $180,000.  

Nourish Cowichan is a non-profit that currently has three full-time staff, three part-time staff as well as a team of 70 volunteers.  

The post Sun-a-thon kicks off to help raise money for Nourish Cowichan  appeared first on My Cowichan Valley Now.

This post was originally published on My Cowichan Valley Now

The Tire Stewardship of BC is providing grants to 11 community projects across the province.

This includes the District of Houston for its new Steelhead Park Playground which will see 1,767 tires recycled for the feature’s surface.

“This project will provide a safer and more inclusive play space for children, enhancing the overall recreational experience and fostering community well-being,” said Fabiana Thomson, Deputy Director of Corporate Services, District of Houston.

This is the only project receiving funding in northern BC, the rest coming from the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.

“Rubberized surfacing is not only durable and low maintenance, but most importantly, it allows accessibility for all users,” said Rosemary Sutton, Executive Director, Tire Stewardship BC.

Earlier this month, Houston released a survey seeking public input for what residents would like to see with the new playground.

The post Houston receives a grant for the new Steelhead Park Playground appeared first on My Bulkley Lakes Now.

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North District Corporal Madonna Saunderson said on Thursday June 12, 2025, a member of BC Highway Patrol was conducting enforcement along Highway 97 near Alexandria.

“A northbound vehicle as exhibiting some odd driving behaviour.” Saunderson said, “The officer stopped the vehicle and quickly discovered that the driver and passenger are known to police. Evidence gained during the interaction led to the arrest of both occupants, an adult man and woman.”

Saunderson said a search incidental to the arrest uncovered suspected crystal meth, suspected fantanyl, $5,000 in cash as well as other items often seen in the drug trade.

Both suspects were released without process as the investigation continues.

The post BC Highway Patrol Vehicle Check Turns Up Significant Drug & Cash Seizure appeared first on My Cariboo Now.

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Homeowners in Prince George can help reduce the risk of wildfires with a new program offered by the City.

Through the FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program, residents can get a free visit from a wildfire expert to help assess their home and yard.

During the visit, the expert will walk through the property with the homeowner, point out potential wildfire risks, and explain practical steps to reduce them, giving a personalized tips to make the property safer.

“We’re excited to offer the FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program here in Prince George.” said Tanya Spooner, Manager of Emergency Programs.

“Community members have a key role in ensuring their own safety during a wildfire, and we hope homeowners will take advantage of the opportunity to work with a wildfire mitigation specialist and take action to reduce wildfire risks to their home.”

Residents have the opportunity to earn a FireSmart certificate upon completion of mitigation actions and a follow-up inspection and may be eligible for insurance incentives or discounts.

The program is in partnership between FireSmart Canada, FireSmart BC, local and provincial governments, Indigenous communities, and the private sector.

More information can be found on the City of Prince George’s website here.

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The City of Nanaimo is looking to residents for feedback on growth options in the Woodgrove area.  

The Woodgrove Area Plan is moving into its second phase, which is focused on understanding the potential impacts of future residential and commercial growth over the next 30 years. 

The city heard feedback on transforming the area into a “complete community” between March and April this year through surveys and workshops. 

The city defines a complete community as a vibrant urban centre with a mix of residential, commercial, park, recreational and cultural components. 

The second phase will look at how growth can affect transportation and infrastructure networks, as well as residents’ ability to access daily needs, according to a news release from the city. 

“City Plan: Nanaimo ReImagined identifies the Woodgrove area as one of six key Secondary Urban Centres where growth and change are encouraged. The Woodgrove Area Plan will help guide that transformation — ensuring the area becomes a dynamic, complete community with housing, shops, services and vibrant public spaces,” says Jeremy Holm, director of planning and development for the city. “This is an important step in shaping a more connected and sustainable future for Nanaimo.” 

A new survey can be filled out on the city’s website from June 16 to July 2. 

The post City looks for more feedback for Woodgrove ‘complete community’ plan  appeared first on My Coast Now.

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A new report said governments need to double the current pace of home construction across the country if they want to get to 2019 housing affordability levels.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation says new estimates show that requires up to 480-thousand new homes being built every year for the next decade.

“Doubling the pace of housing construction in Canada is achievable, but not without a significantly larger and modernized workforce, more private investment, less regulation, fewer delays, and lower development costs. It will also require significant innovation in construction technology and growth in labour productivity,” said Aled ab Iorwerth, Deputy Chief Economist for CMHC.

“By estimating housing supply gaps across Canada, our goal is to ensure policymakers from all orders of government, as well as the private sector, understand the scale of the challenge. Systemic changes are essential if we are to double the pace of homebuilding in Canada.”

By province, the most significant housing supply gaps are in Ontario and Nova Scotia, which saw some of the fastest rising housing costs due to the pandemic.
Another is British Columbia.

As for the large cities, CHMC stated Montreal has the largest housing supply gap followed by Ottawa-Gatineau.

– story done by Richard Coffin, Vista Radio news staff

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Mother Nature wasn’t fooling around this time.

The early evening (Wednesday) thunderstorm in the Prince George-Vanderhoof area sure packed a punch downing trees due to gusty winds along with heavy rain.

According to Environment Canada, the thunderstorm warning and watch has been ended.

The storm caused some damage to various parts of PG.

Thursday’s conditions call for a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 17 degrees.

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An event to show people without homes and suffering from addiction that they are not alone, they are loved, have value, and are wanted and supported, will take place today (June 19) in Williams Lake.

“Calling Our People Home” is a grassroots movement created by the Bonaparte First Nation in Cache Creek.

They said it’s designed to wrap these individuals in support options and necessities as they navigate the many barriers they face.

The aim is also to help end the stigma around this population and help instill a sense of compassion in communities where those that struggle reside.

Indigenous Health and Wellness worker for Bonaparte First Nation, Danny Kennedy, said they’ve held this same event the last 2 years in Kamloops and are excited to bring it to the Lake City.

“We want to do cultural healing through drumming ceremony song and offer treatment options, harm reduction, as well as making care packages and hygiene packages. The first year we held this we had about 400 people show up to it. They have a beautiful treatment centre in Kamloops that gave away a free 30-day stay there and we got at least 3 people into treatment.”

Kennedy added that they have collaborated with every agency that is in the Williams Lake from the First Nations Bands to the on ground workers from Interior Health.

Bonaparte First Nation Youth and Family Coordinator, Angela Clark said they’ve had tremendous support from these agencies and feel they will have a good turnout for people providing their information for services for the individuals that are suffering from the toxic drug crisis.

“We are living in a time that is critical. We see this reflected on homeless camps in our communities and just a lack of resources that are showing up in communities because we just can’t keep up with the demand that is there. Part of our goal here is to bring more of an understanding to this crisis that we’re living in and I feel its really important that we acknowledge that we are also inviting the general public to attend this event.”

Clark said if the general public comes to the park they may hear something that will change their perspective, enlighten them somewhat in terms with what we’re dealing with here and why this is a crisis of this nature at this time.

“Calling Our People Home” will be held in Boitanio Park in Williams Lake today (June 19) from 9 am to 3 pm.

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Sports by Hartley Thursday, June 19th, 2025

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