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Fernie council unanimously endorsed a resolution for the Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments annual general meeting that focuses on the operation of emergency weather shelters.

The resolution would address emergency cold shelters that have been closed due to sprinkler system requirements under the fire code.

“We are asking the province for a narrow emergency exemption framework and liability protection. Right now if they were to go in, the fire inspector would be liable,” said councillor Troy Nixon.

“It’s all up to the province. I just want to get this to the floor of the AKBLG for some discussion.”

He said there needs to be a better framework in place that recognizes the safety risks of these shelters, but also recognizes the alternative of not having them.

“Compassion and safety are not competing values. The goal of this resolution is for a response that is both humane and responsible. Doing nothing during extreme weather is neither safe nor acceptable,” he added.

“Life safety for sprinklers versus freezing to death life safety.”

The resolution will be presented at this year’s AKBLG AGM. If they are receptive of the resolution it would then go to the UBCM convention.

If it’s approved there the UBCM would then advocate to the province.

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Radium Hot Springs is collaborating with the BC Wildfire Service to start a fuel treatment project this month.

Work will be done on the Ridge Road municipally owned land.

Treatment will involve removing brush and shrubs, limbing live trees to a height of 2 metres, removing dead trees as well as a limited number of live trees.

Work is starting in mid-February.

Debris will be piled and chipped during the community’s FireSmart chipping event on May 21.

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Cranbrook RCMP are investigating a firearms-related incident reported to police on Feb. 13 that allegedly occurred during the early morning hours of Feb. 12 in the 400 block of 3rd Avenue South.

Police said officers responded to the delayed report, established containment and developed a tactical plan to assess the residence believed to be involved.

To reduce risk to the public and responding officers, police deployed a drone to enter the residence and determine whether anyone inside required assistance or posed a safety concern. No injured people were found.

A nearby school was notified as a precaution while the investigation was underway. Police said there is no ongoing risk to the public.

“The investigation continues and Cranbrook RCMP is asking residents in the surrounding area to review their home security or doorbell camera footage for any activity around 3 a.m. on February 12, 2026. Anyone with relevant video or information is asked to contact Cranbrook RCMP at their earliest opportunity,” said Staff Sgt. Barry Graham in a release.

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Comox Valley Schools is putting together schedules for the next three academic years and is asking parents to provide feedback through an online survey.

School District 71 said its draft calendars through 2029 focus on instructional days, professional development days, non-instructional days, vacation periods and statutory holidays.

The school district added its draft calendars are not meant to reflect events linked to specific schools.

The calendars must meet instructional hours set by the Ministry of Education and Child Care.

Click here to view the draft calendars and complete the survey.

“All feedback received during the engagement window will be reviewed and summarized to help inform the board of education as it considers the proposed calendars,” said School District 71.

Responses are due by March 14.

– Article includes files from Comox Valley Schools (School District 71)

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B.C. Premier David Eby is headed back to Tumbler Ridge, as provincial and federal leaders converge on the small northeastern community for a vigil in honour of the victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting.

Eby was in the community earlier this week, meeting with local officials, first responders and residents. He travelled back to Victoria on Thursday to attend a special throne speech at the legislature dedicated to the community of Tumbler Ridge.

Eby will be joined Friday by Education and Child Care Minister Lisa Beare and Health Minister Josie Osborne.

B.C. Conservative interim leader Trevor Halford and B.C. Green MLA Jeremy Valeriote will also attend.

Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Mark Carney, federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and a number of other federal ministers and leaders are also travelling to Tumbler Ridge.

The vigil is set to take place at 6:15 pm.

Six children and two women were killed in the shootings at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a home in the community.

The victims of the shooting at the school include a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old girls and two boys aged 12 and 13.

Police said the suspect’s mother and 11-year-old step brother were found dead at a home.

Two victims were airlifted to hospital on Tuesday in serious condition.

A GoFundMe page for 12-year-old Maya Gebala said she remains in serious condition at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver after suffering gunshot wounds to the head and neck. The fundraiser had raised more than $350,000 as of Friday morning.

A Facebook post by Leann Fletcher said her 19-year-old sister, Paige Hoekstra, is now out of danger after undergoing surgery for a gunshot wound to the chest.

B.C. RCMP said the 18-year-old suspect, Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar, died at the school of a self-inflicted wound.

Police have not revealed any suspected motive for the shooting.

-with files from Emily Joveski, Vista Radio staff

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B.C. Premier David Eby is headed back to Tumbler Ridge, as provincial and federal leaders converge on the small northeastern community for a vigil in honour of the victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting.

Eby was in the community earlier this week, meeting with local officials, first responders and residents. He travelled back to Victoria on Thursday to attend a special throne speech at the legislature dedicated to the community of Tumbler Ridge.

Eby will be joined Friday by Education and Child Care Minister Lisa Beare and Health Minister Josie Osborne.

B.C. Conservative interim leader Trevor Halford and B.C. Green MLA Jeremy Valeriote will also attend.

Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Mark Carney, federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and a number of other federal ministers and leaders are also travelling to Tumbler Ridge.

The vigil is set to take place at 6:15 pm.

Six children and two women were killed in the shootings at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a home in the community.

The victims of the shooting at the school include a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old girls and two boys aged 12 and 13.

Police said the suspect’s mother and 11-year-old step brother were found dead at a home.

Two victims were airlifted to hospital on Tuesday in serious condition.

A GoFundMe page for 12-year-old Maya Gebala said she remains in serious condition at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver after suffering gunshot wounds to the head and neck. The fundraiser had raised more than $350,000 as of Friday morning.

A Facebook post by Leann Fletcher said her 19-year-old sister, Paige Hoekstra, is now out of danger after undergoing surgery for a gunshot wound to the chest.

B.C. RCMP said the 18-year-old suspect, Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar, died at the school of a self-inflicted wound.

Police have not revealed any suspected motive for the shooting.

-with files from Emily Joveski, Vista Radio staff

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The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) will be in Prince George next month, hosting its first Regional Justice Forum.

At the forum, Indigenous leadership, community members, justice partners, and service providers will share knowledge, elevate community-based solutions, and advance the BC First Nations and National Indigenous Justice Strategy.

The Council said “the agenda will encourage conversation around community-led justice approaches and pathways to reduce the harm of incarceration while strengthening wellness, accountability, and self-determination.”

It added that each spring, the forum will be held in a different area of the province, rotating between northern, interior, and island regions, with the Provincial Justice Forum in Vancouver each fall.

The forum is scheduled for March 10th and 11th at the Coast Prince George Hotel.

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Interior Health (IH) issued a Drug Alert due to a rise in severe and unusual drug related poisonings throughout the region.

“That as well as what was showing up in our drug test samples,” Alison Houweling, IH Regional Harm Reduction Coordinator said, “the drug samples have been found to have Medetomidine which is a strong sedative as well as Carfentanil and Benzidiazepines. This significantly increases the risk of unpredictable and severe overdoses.”

Houweling noted that Medetomidine has shown up in the past but it’s far more prevalent now.

She said Medetomidine as a sedative causes a breathing to slow and your heart rate to slow as well so that makes overdoses far more complicated and it also contributes to Hypothermia.

“Where they’re finding samples and what it’s being sold as, the names they are hearing Down, Dope, Tranq, or Fentanyl but the samples are varied,” Houweling said, “they come in all colors such as purple, green and orange, and all shapes and sizes. They come as chunks, pebbles, and powders. It’s unfortunate that we can’t really find like one sample that we can say be aware of, it’s coming in all of them.”

Interior Health said in their alert the combination of opioids, benzodiazepines and medetomidine can lead to significant sedation and overdose symptoms may last beyond administration of naloxone.

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The BC SPCA’s North Cariboo branch and the Prince George Spay/Neuter Clinic are hosting a free vaccine clinic for the vulnerable dogs and puppies tomorrow (Saturday).

It’s in response to seeing several reports from animal health and welfare organizations regarding cases of canine parvo virus.

Parvo is a highly contagious, often deadly virus that leaves unvaccinated puppies and young dogs particularly vulnerable.

Vaccinations against the virus is a very effective way to offer furry loved ones protection from serious illness.

It is for dogs and puppies under two years old, and dogs with either no vaccines or just one puppy shot.

The clinic is being held at 1909 Queensway Avenue from 11am to 5pm.

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2026 has proven to be very busy year so far for one particular team of first responders.

Central Cariboo Search and Rescue interim Chief Deborah Bortolussi said in January their Auto Extrication Team was very active.

“They responded to 12 motor vehicle incidents in the regional area. Our Land Search and Rescue Team was also tasked out for a phone alert, an automated crash alert, that they did respond to but thankfully the person was alright and the team was able to be stood down.”

Bortolussi noted that those 12 MVI tasks almost doubled their total from January of 2025.

“That same month last year we had 7 as we at times see a decrease in call outs in the first month of the new year. But this year we didn’t see that with at some times getting two call outs in a day.”

Just recently Central Cariboo Search and Rescue (CSAR) was tasked to provide mutual aid to Bella Coola Valley Search and Rescue.

Yesterday morning (February 12) five members of their Land Search and Rescue team responded in the search for a missing adolescent.

According their (CSAR) social media page, they deployed with the support of 49 North Helicopters for swift transport into the search area to assist with ongoing efforts and the missing individual was located safely.

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Honey is this week’s Summit Radio Pet of the Week from the BC SPCA in Castlegar.

Honey is a beautiful female spayed 1 year old Kangal Shepherd x Maremma who is as sweet as her name. She’s grown into a thoughtful, loyal, and capable young guardian with a gentle heart.
Honey is an excellent all-around farm dog and has been exposed to cats, chickens, turkeys, sheep, dogs, and children. She currently lives peacefully with two other farm dogs. While she can take a little time to warm up to new canine friends, she does well with proper introductions. Because of her guardian breed mix, we recommend a home with experience in livestock guardian or similar working breeds.
Honey came into SPCA care as a 6 mo old pup after showing signs of lameness. She was assessed at Selkirk Veterinary Hospital and diagnosed with early cruciate disease in her left knee. She was taken into foster care by Dr. Meyer, who later performed a TPLO surgery once she was ready. Honey has done wonderfully through her recovery and will be finishing her rehab in March. Long-term, she is expected to have approximately 90% function in her left rear leg, and her right leg is sound.
She is trained to respect yard perimeters, knows how to sit, and comes when called. Honey is intelligent, observant, and deeply devoted to her people. She would thrive in a calm, consistent home where she can continue her role as a guardian while also being a cherished companion.
Honey is now ready for her forever home-one that understands guardian breeds and will appreciate both her working ability and her sweet, soulful nature.

Learn more about adopting her here: https://adopt.spca.bc.ca/pets/789310/

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The city of Cranbrook will be sending a letter to the premier, forests minister and local MLA asking for continued support of a wildfire mitigation grant program.

Fire chief Scott Driver said the UBCM has notified communities that the Community Resiliency Investment fund’s reserves are getting low and may not be refilled.

“They had initially $125 million and they are down to $25 million remaining and ahead of the provincial program they have changed the program, indicating that there is possibly not a lot more funding coming into the program.”

Driver said the funding stream recently changed and now only supports FireSmart initiatives and not other fuel management projects.

“They removed the landscape treatment fuel prescription portion of the program to just leave the FireSmart portion,” he said.

“Communities are still allowed to ask for the same amount of money, they just aren’t allowed to do prescriptions or landscape treatment including logging and prescribed burning.”

City staff said the province hasn’t indicated if more funding will be made available as part of the 2026 budget.

The letter to provincial officials will be showing how important this type of work is to the city to help prevent future wildfires.

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The next time the Prince George Spruce Kings take the ice at home, they will have the South Peace on their mind.

During its February 20th home game against the Powell River Kings, two dollars from every ticket sold will benefit the Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Council in the wake of the recent tragedy that claimed the lives of nine people.

In addition, the entire Spruce Kings portion of the 50/50 will go directly into the fundraiser.

“Our hearts are heavy as we look toward next Friday night,” said the Spruce Kings President, David Keough.

“We know that no amount of money can heal the pain the Tumbler Ridge community is feeling right now, but we want our neighbors to know they are not alone. We invite everyone to join us—not just for a hockey game, but to stand in a circle of support for the Tumbler Ridge Community.”

Puck drop for the game is at 7pm from the Kopar Memorial Arena.

Tickets are available online by clicking here.

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Kimberley city staff are recommending council approve Option Four, the “Phased Approach,” in the Kimberley Transit System Fare Review Report from BC Transit.

Option Four calls for a 50-cent increase to single-ride fares and introduction of a monthly pass priced at $80 in 2026. It would be followed by further increases in 2028, including an additional 50-cent rise to single-ride fares, bringing the total increase to $1 from the current fare. The monthly pass would rise to $92 in 2028.

Of the five options presented to council, Option Four combines elements of Options Two and Three. Option Two proposed a small fare increase, while Option Three aligned fare increases with inflation.

Staff recommend option four because its balanced approach of combining the choices, meeting in the middle to provide reasonable alternatives and outcomes.

A small fare increase at first is less jarring to residents then immediately increasing fares to correspond with inflation. While also giving residents lots of notice and preparation of the end goal to increase fares to align with inflation. 

Troy Pollock, Kimberley’s manager of planning services, said the phased approach offers the best balance among the options. He acknowledged council’s concerns about how monthly passes could affect revenue but said the convenience for regular users is significant.

“We are recommending the phased approach because we view that as the best balance of all of the options to consider. We know that many customers have been requesting a monthly pass option and there’s always a lot of uncertainty about how much that will actually get used or what the revenue impacts of that are gonna be on the system overall.” Said Pollock

Pollock also shares how transit operating costs continue to rise and transit fares have not increased since 2013, so the cost recovery rate has diminished. Kimberley’s current fare rates are lower than similar systems in other jurisdictions. 

“The fact that it’s been quite some time since the fares have been adjusted at all, you know I think they’re definitely is some Merit in increasing those fares, but it’s also trying to recognize that maybe we can soften the blow a bit by phasing that increase in over a two year period.” Pollock added.

Mayor Don McCormick said residents should remember that all fare revenue returns to the community.

“Just a reminder that 100% of the revenues coming in go to the city of Kimberley”. Said McCormick.

Councillor Jason McBain shares the approval of monthly passes, along with concerns of revenue but thinks the option could push progress along for the local transit system, taking more cars off the road.

“I think we kind of wanna push the envelope. I think we want to make the message even more clear about needing more ridership so I think if the buses are packed, that’s still a good sign. I share your concerns on that revenue part but I think the more people that use this, it does force the hand a little bit more to say hey these buses are at capacity and we can’t stuff any more people on them, we need a few more routes, and if the monthly thing helps to do that while providing some convenience, I think that’s great.” said McBain.

Councillor Kevin Dunneback is fond of the monthly pass idea presented, and also has an idea to supplement revenue through advertising on buses.

 “I just want to say I love the idea of a monthly pass for all the people that are living day to day, so they can budget that in. The one thing that I notice as I see buses driving around all the time through town is I just see three blank canvases that I feel could be sold and collect revenue for advertising for local businesses. Linking BC transit with local business, I think it is a huge missed revenue opportunity, and you could actually make more with a rotating revenue coming from local businesses.” said Dunneback.

Council and Mayor McCormick also brought up bus capacity questions on the commuter route from Kimberley to Cranbrook, but Daynika White from BC Transit stated they are looking to increase capacity for the route.

“You are correct that the Kimberly Cranbrook commuter is often nearing capacity, which is why we are seeking expansion funding from the province to increase service on that route to add additional trips in the morning and the evening.” said White.

If council approves the recommended option, it can adjust the implementation timeline. Midhat Malik of BC Transit said the changes could be implemented about 12 weeks after council’s decision.

“In terms of timeline we’d be looking to do a marketing campaign over the spring to ensure that residents are aware of the change and know that it’s happening, so it doesn’t take anyone by surprise. So we’d be at the earliest looking to implement a fare change in June, but it could certainly be later.” said Malik. 

Staff said the proposed two-year timeline would help improve cost recovery, support service expansion and maintain affordability for riders.

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Prince George is just a day away from Winterfest, taking place at the Civic Centre and Plaza.

This year’s festival will include over 30 vendors, live music, free skate rentals for outdoor skating, mini rail and more.

Downtown Prince George Executive Director Chrisie Berry said this year’s event lines up perfectly to tie in Valentine’s Day.

“We traditionally have it on the Family Day long weekend, because it’s just a nice family friendly event for everyone to attend.”

“With Valentine’s Day also being on the Saturday this year, it just felt like an extra opportunity to include potentially another part of the community.”

Berry added the festival will be a day long event, with the Downtown Markets starting at 8:30, the library will still have its story time and free hot chocolate, with a few things happening at the Art Gallery.

Winterfest takes place on Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and more information can be found here.

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A condolence book for the community of Tumbler Ridge is available for Lake City residents to sign.

The City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District welcome everyone to express their messages of support and strength over the next several days.

Mayor Surinderpal Rathor says they will be shared with the community of Tumbler Ridge as an expression of the City’s collective care and support following the tragic event of February tenth.

“A lot of people called me and talking with staff we did this to send a message that we are 100 percent with you, our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

The condolence book for Tumbler Ridge can be found in the lobby at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex.

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The City of Castlegar will borrow close to $1 million to get a head start on improvements to the south sewage treatment plant, which has been plagued with problems in recent years.

The city plans to bring one of the plant’s two bioreactors back online. It has been out of commission since 2008. The city says that will improve flow through the system and give operators more breathing room to meet permit requirements and protect the Columbia River from accidental spills of undertreated sewage.

A construction management contract was awarded last March to Chandos Construction LP, valued at over $6.8 million. Staff say while design work has already started, the loan will let them order equipment with long lead times for delivery.

The project will require further borrowing that will be subject to a counterpetition, but the city says that process could take up to six months. To get going, council last week approved the interim borrowing, to be repaid in five years.

The city’s long-term sewage plan calls for the city’s two sewage plants to be consolidated at the north-end site at a cost of up to $82 million, but that could be up to 15 years away.

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Elk Valley RCMP responded to a report of threats received by Rocky Mountain Elementary School in Elkford on Wednesday, Feb. 11, just after 1 p.m.

Police said the threats were made through Facebook and referenced several other agencies, businesses or individuals.

With support from the school district, the elementary school and Elkford Secondary School were placed in lockout to ensure student and staff safety. The school district sent messages to parents through its notification system.

Front-line officers attended both schools and reviewed the posts with administrators.

Police said the posts were made by a man well known to Elk Valley RCMP who no longer lives in the area. Officers confirmed, using emergency cellphone pings and Facebook emergency disclosure requests, that the suspect was more than 1,000 kilometres from the Elk Valley.

After consulting with the school district, police remained at or near the schools while students were dismissed at the usual time. No issues were reported. Several parents and students expressed appreciation to attending officers and school staff.

Police said parents were kept informed through messages from the school district. Officers remained near the schools until well after dismissal.

The mayor of the District of Elkford was kept apprised of the situation.

Police said the investigation determined the incident was related to the man’s personal history, COVID-19 and other social pressures in his life. There is no connection to other investigations in the province.

Elk Valley RCMP said the investigation is ongoing.

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Sports by Hartley Friday, February 13th, 2026  as of 12:05 a.m.

Winter Games:

27-year-old Evan Bichon of Mackenzie, who went to high school in Prince George, did not make the quarter-finals in men’s snowboard cross at the Winter Games in Italy.

Bichon finished 17th in a field of 32.

Eliot Grondin of Quebec captured a silver medal in snowboard cross.

Freestyle skier Mikael Kingsbury of Quebec earned a silver in men’s moguls.

Courtney Sarault of Moncton picked up a bronze Thursday in the women’s short-track speedskating 500-metre event.

Canada has seven medals in Milano Cortina; three silver and four bronze.

(The first four medals for Canada included: bronze to Toronto based couple Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier in ice dance figure skating; silver to the Canadian mixed relay team in short track speed skating; bronze to freestyle skier Megan Oldham of Ontario in the women’s slopestyle and bronze to Quebec speedskater Valerie Maltais in the women’s 3,000 metres)

Prince George long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly competes in the 500m Sunday (8 AM PT).

Hiller-Donnelly placed 26th out of 30 in the 1000m race Monday.

Ski cross racer Gavin Rowell of Prince George will participate at the Games on Saturday, Feb. 21st (1 AM PT).

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The Canadian men’s hockey team outscored Czechia 5-0 Thursday in its first game in Italy.

Jordan Binnington stopped 26 shots for the shutout.

Canada will play its second game in men’s hockey today (12:10 PM PT) against Switzerland.

The Canadian women’s hockey team is 2-1 after a 5-0 victory over Finland.

WHL:

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

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just one point ahead of the
(27-17-5-2) Kelowna Rockets and only two points in front of the (25-17-6-4) Blazers.

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

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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Flags at the B.C. legislature flew at half-mast under grey skies on Thursday as MLAs from all parties gathered on the steps to pay tribute to the victims of one of the province’s worst mass shootings.

The small northeastern community of Tumbler Ridge has been rocked by the shooting deaths of six children and two women at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a home in the community.

More than two dozen people were injured, and a 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old woman remain in hospital in serious condition.

B.C. RCMP said the suspect, 18-year-old Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed herself at the school.

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B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor, Wendy Cocchia, had been set to deliver the Throne Speech on Thursday to kick off the spring session of the legislature. But House leaders from all three parties announced Wednesday that the planned Throne Speech would be scrapped and Cocchia would instead deliver remarks in honour of the victims. Feb. 12 was proclaimed a day of mourning in the province.

“Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and a tight-knit community suffering unimaginable pain. We hold them in our prayers and stand with them in their grief,” Cocchia said at the legislature Thursday afternoon.

In her speech, Cocchia pointed to the words of Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, who said people can help by offering a hug.

“I think that is very wise because at a time of deep grief, often we retreat and we withdraw. But what often helps the healing process as well is connectivity,” Cocchia said.

“I want the people of Tumbler Ridge to know unequivocally that we are always here for you and we will always have a hug waiting for you,” she said.

Members of the legislative assembly also held a moment of silence.

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Later outside the legislature, Premier David Eby grew emotional as he spoke about his recent visit to Tumbler Ridge. Some members gathered behind him shed tears and shared hugs.

“It’s not often that the legislature is fully united, but clearly, with all Canadians, we’re standing with those families and loved ones who are suffering right now,” Eby said.

Eby said the normal routine of the legislature felt empty after seeing what people in Tumbler Ridge are going through.

His voice broke as he described seeing a hockey card and stuffed toys at a makeshift memorial in the community.

Eby said he heard many stories while in Tumbler Ridge of people stepping up to help each other during the tragedy. He said he heard about students protecting other students during the shooting, teachers who pulled the injured out of the hall to perform CPR, and volunteer firefighters who showed up to help respond to the incident.

“But they’re not my stories to share,” Eby said.

“There’s a deep commitment to the community, that the community will come through this … but right now there sure is a lot of grief,” he said.

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B.C. Conservative interim leader Trevor Halford said he will travel to Tumbler Ridge on Friday. He urged British Columbians to keep the focus on the victims, not politics.

“We will be there to support in any way we can,” Halford told reporters. “There is absolutely zero politics to any of this.”

Prime Minister Mark Carney and other federal leaders are also expected to visit the community Friday and attend an evening vigil.

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Residents in Williams Lake may have noticed smoke in the Tower Crescent, Westridge and near the 168 Mile Road areas.

“We just want to let residents know that pile burning is taking place,” Firesmart Coordinator Taya Vanderkop-Girarad said, “and will continue as conditions permit. Signage should be posted at all major entry points to the treatment area and we’re asking residents to avoid active work zones as well.”

Vanderkop-Girard said if you see smoke or flames in the area, not to worry as its all part of ongoing fuel management treatments and crews are on site monitoring conditions.

These pile burning projects are set to continue into the Spring depending on weather conditions.

Vanderkop-Girard reminds the public to keep an eye out for any updates.

“We will keep posting on the City of Williams Lake website, Facebook and Instagram pages.”

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This Hug is 20 Seconds campaign is returning to the Prince George Downtown Winterfest this weekend.

The campaign, now in its fourth year at the festival, was started by Aaron Vanderpool and his family, honouring their child Taraji’s final gift of a hug before they passed away in 2022.

As to why the hug is 20 seconds, Vanderpool said “Research shows that the length of our hugs matter more than the number of hugs we receive.”

“20-second hugs can lift your mood, reduce your stress, and boost your happy hormones (oxytocin).”

Those looking to take part in the campaign can do so at their booth from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the at the Civic Centre.

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The company that owns sawmills in Castlegar and Grand Forks continues to show big losses.

Interfor’s fourth quarter earnings report released today showed the company had a net loss of $104.6 million. That’s compared to a loss of $215.8 million in the third quarter of 2025 and a $49.9 million loss in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The company said North American lumber markets over the short term are expected to remain volatile as the economy “continues to adjust to changing monetary policies, tariffs, labour shortages and geo-political uncertainty.”

Interfor curtailed production company-wide last fall, leading to an indefinite shutdown of its Grand Forks mill. The mill has since reopened with a single shift.

Overall, the company cut 753 million board feet, which was down 159 million from the previous quarter.

Lumber prices rebounded late last year and early this year.

Interfor said it paid $31.2 million during the fourth quarter in export duties as a result of countervailing and anti-dumping duties on softwood imposed by the US at a combined rate of over 35 per cent.

The company said over the mid-term, Canadian lumber is expected to remain a key source of supply to meet US needs.

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Repair and replacement work at the Claude Parish Memorial Arena in Houston has led to the 2026 trade show being cancelled.

The Houston Chamber of Commerce said because of the work, renting through the 2026 ice-out season isn’t available to minimize any risk of prolonging the arena’s restart this fall.

“We know the Trade Show is an important event for local businesses, residents, and visitors. This decision was not made lightly, but the safety and long-term viability of the facility must come first,” said Chamber Board Chair Amber Oevering.

The chamber also thanked the District of Houston for assisting in trying to find alternatives for the trade show to still happen.

“The planned work at the arena is essential to ensure the facility remains safe and functional for future events,” said Houston Mayor Shane Brienen.

The chamber is looking forward to bringing the trade show back in a future year with updates being shared as planning progresses.

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Updated data from the province’s Snow Basin Index show Vancouver Island snowpacks are the lowest in B.C. as of Feb. 1.

February’s Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin pegs the local snowpack at 39 per cent of its seasonal average, while the South Coast, which includes the Sunshine Coast, is at 61 per cent of normal for this time of year.

The province said a below-normal snowpack could signal potential drought conditions through the warmer months.

“Areas with below normal snowpack show early concerns for drought conditions amplifying in the spring and summer,” reads a statement from the province’s Snow Basin Index report for February.

The report said B.C. normally experiences two thirds of its annual snow accumulation by February.

Province-wide, snowpacks are at 96 per cent of the seasonal average, with the Nechako region having the highest levels at 128 per cent.

“There are still two or three months remaining in the snow accumulation season, and snowpack can change significantly depending on upcoming weather patterns,” the report said.

It adds that warmer weather and heavy rain in January in the Vancouver Island and South Coast regions contributed to snowmelt at lower elevations.

“This was followed by a shift to more stable weather, with a strong high-pressure ridge developing over the eastern Pacific and ushering in a prolonged period of warm and very dry conditions,” the province said.

The February Snow Basin Index update is available here.

– Article includes link and image supplied by Province of British Columbia

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The Strathcona Regional District is inviting Quadra Island residents to join discussions about elements of the Electoral Area C Official Community Plan.

According to the regional district, the discussion will focus on Quadra Island’s water and waste.

The session will take place Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Quadra Island Community Centre and starts at 6 p.m.

The SRD said participants can arrive after the session begins, as the conversation will be ongoing.

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Nanaimo RCMP are searching for a man involved in a shooting outside Woodgrove Centre. 

Police said a confrontation involving a group of young people on Feb. 11 escalated and one person suffered non-life-threatening injuries from a gunshot. 

Police said the incident happened around 3:30 p.m. Officers are trying to locate the shooter, who has been identified. 

“The situation quickly escalated when one male dispersed bear spray and another produced a firearm. Several individuals were exposed to the bear spray and one male was subsequently shot,” police said in a news release. “Police were engaged from the outset but received conflicting reports and were only able to confirm the location and circumstances of the shooting on the morning of Thursday, Feb. 12.” 

RCMP said the shooter and victim know each other and investigators believe it was an isolated incident. The victim went to hospital for treatment and was later released. Police said he is expected to make a full recovery. 

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The Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk returns to Campbell River on Saturday, Feb. 28.

The family-friendly event aims to raise $60,000 for the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society.

The society is a registered non-profit organization that provides services and shelter for women and their children fleeing violence. It has served northern Vancouver Island for 40 years.

Diane Palmer, public relations and economic development co-ordinator for the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society, said funding from the walk will help support its services.

“We provide drop-in crisis counselling and a safe place to sit. The elements outside are not ideal, and people like [connecting],” Palmer said. “They come into a safe space, they can have a coffee, they can browse our free store. We have a computer and phone. We sometimes provide gas cards to women who live in their vehicles, and we have access to showers and laundry.”

She said warmer weather could lead to a bigger turnout.

“It really ups our numbers. Last year was quite nice, and we had about 75 walk-ins,” she said. “We are hoping for nicer weather.”

Palmer encouraged the community to attend.

“We are going to have sliders on the barbecue. We’ll have hot chocolate and coffee. It’s going to be a lot of fun. People come out cold, but it’s for a great cause.”

This year’s Coldest Night of the Year event will feature a two-kilometre walk and a five-kilometre walk. Donations are already being collected ahead of the event.

More details are available here.

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Nominations are open for Houston’s Most Inspirational Woman Award for 2026.

The award has been presented for the past 16 years at an event to celebrate women on International Women’s Day.

“It’s just an opportunity for people in the community to recognize the hard working, selfless women in out community and share with us what they’re doing to make it a better place,” said Co-Organizer Cindy Verbeek.

She added nominations have been slow so far this year with 30 people being put forward in 2025.

One of the main things being looked for in nominees is someone who is making a difference in the community, looking at leadership, volunteering, or even a knowledge holder sharing information with the community.

“We’re not expecting or thinking that every woman is going to have something in each of the criteria but these are the kinds of things we’re looking for,” said Verbeek.

Nominees will then be passed through a panel of previous award recipients to determine who will get the title.

The winner will be announced at a Special Tea event on March 8th, different to previous years when a dinner would be held.

“Because International Women’s Day is on a Sunday this year, we decided to have less of a dinner and more light refreshments so there will be different kinds of tea available, finger sandwiches, and some fruit,” Verbeek said.

Nominations and registration can be done at the Houston Chamber of Commerce.

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Cranbrook RCMP have charged a 35-year-old woman with six counts of theft under $5,000 in connection with a string of thefts from Royal Canadian Legion poppy donation boxes in early November 2025.

Police said investigators compiled CCTV footage and witness statements from local businesses to identify the suspect, who later turned herself in to police.

Police thanked the community for its support and vigilance throughout the investigation, saying it had been essential in advancing the matter before the courts.

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There is a lot of new development in Cranbrook’s future.

That’s according to Mayor Wayne Price, who was giving an annual mayor’s address to the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Cranbrook on Feb. 12.

He said a lot of large projects should be on the horizon.

That includes the large Wildstone apartment proposal that was just approved by council, other housing projects, the F.W. Green Home expansion that broke ground last year and a future expansion at the hospital.

“I think Cranbrook is in a really interesting place right now. Something’s happening here. We’re getting attention from developers. A lot of inquiries.”

He said it’s important that they bring in multiple housing options and not just rentals.

Price said he thinks only focusing on rentals is a risky trend that could backfire in the future.

“I get concerned that right across Canada right now, they’re building apartments. Rental, rental, rental, rental, rental. We could become a rental society in Canada, but what you do in 25 years, when the people in there can’t work anymore and no revenue’s coming in and they’re renting,” he added.

“They can’t afford the rent. I think we’re making a mistake and I think that town houses have to be part of the solution.”

He said the city has also started a number of projects that support other areas of the community.

One of those projects is the upcoming city-owned daycare space.

Price said routinely one of the top questions the city gets asked when trying to bring in professionals is if there is adequate childcare.

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Fernie city council has approved a joint agreement to allow the Twin Meadows Animal Rescue Society to use the city’s pound.

The agreement helps the society maintain their level of service in helping local animals.

“This partnership supports pet reunification, emergency medical care, rehoming of neglected or abandoned medical care and care of impounded animals,” said corporate services director Camille Neal.

Since 2022, approximately 190 animals originating in Fernie were taken in by the organization.

The society utilizes the pound approximately once each week.

However it varies based on emergency intake volume and is most often required in urgent situations such as animals involved in motor vehicle accidents, animals requiring hospitalization or immediate medical assessment.

The agreement is for two and a half years.

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Local governments are continuing to explore the possibility of a new RCMP detachment in the Comox Valley. 

Officials from the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland toured the North Cowichan-Duncan RCMP building, completed in 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to advance plans for a new detachment serving the Comox Valley. 

“After touring both the North Cowichan and our local detachment, the urgency to get this facility replacement process moving became very obvious to me,” said Cumberland Mayor Vickey Brown. 

Elected officials and RCMP representatives have discussed the condition of the current building and its replacement for more than a decade. 

RCMP E Division, which oversees RCMP buildings, met with officials in 2022 and said a needs assessment was required before a cost analysis could proceed. 

Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells said the current RCMP building is well past its prime. 

“We are taking this seriously and have requested to meet with RCMP E Division leadership again to advocate for improvements at the current detachment while we also work toward a new facility.” 

The Ryan Road building is now more than 40 years old and faces numerous concerns and deficiencies. 

In the event of a major seismic event, the building would likely fail structurally, potentially disrupting police communications across North Vancouver Island. 

Lead in water pipes, asbestos in building materials, unreliable heating and ventilation systems and space shortages were also flagged as health and safety concerns. 

“As we look ahead, we will need a new building to serve the next 40 years, one that can accommodate population growth, support response to natural disasters and major emergencies, and future policing needs that were not envisioned when the current building was constructed,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. 

The North Cowichan-Duncan RCMP detachment was built on municipally owned land and jointly funded, with North Cowichan contributing 40 per cent and the RCMP covering 60 per cent of the $49-million facility. 

Wells requested the tour from North Cowichan Mayor Rob Douglas, noting the detachments serve a similar number of RCMP members. 

All three municipalities will send letters of support urging next steps toward a new detachment. 

Local governments and RCMP leadership will continue reviewing options, exploring funding models and learning from recent detachment projects such as North Cowichan’s in the coming months. 

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The newest addition to the Williams Lake Regional Airport will have it’s grand opening tomorrow (February 13).

The new airport cafe will operate as “On the Fly Coffee and Tea” and the City is inviting the community to come out this Friday to attend this event between 11 and 1.

“There is a clear need to provide hospitality services at our airport,” Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said, “we are delighted that this new addition will not only benefit the travelers to our region, but also provide the many employees at the Cariboo Fire Centre an onsite option for food and beverages.”

Manager of Economic Development for the City of Williams Lake, Beth Veenkamp said it’s been in development for about the last 18 months.

“Slowly but surely we pick away at developing the airport facility. It’s wholly by the City so it’s the City’s job to manage and develop it. We’ve heard for a longtime that there needs to be food and beverage options up there for all the people that use the facility.”

Veenkamp noted that the Williams Lake Regional Airport is a very busy facility and every day they have approximately 100 or more people at the Cariboo Fire Centre so that is definitely enough to make a coffee shop have a good shot of it.

“The City applied for a grant through the Province of British Columbia’s Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program and were successful. It was for $100,000 in funding and the City completed the project for $85,000.”

Veenkamp noted that they received the funding announcement last April and were able to get it open just before Christmas so they had a bit of a “soft opening” for the last month and are now fully operational.

“We (the City) believe this will be a great addition to the airport and the surrounding community around it and we thank On the Fly Coffee and Tea for their investment in providing this service to our community.”

The new Airport Cafe is open from 9 to 4 daily.

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The CRD has released the count for the first advanced poll in Area A for the by-election.

28 voters in the Red Bluff/ Quesnel South area cast their ballots at the Quesnel Recreation Centre yesterday.

A second advanced voting day will take place on February 17, from 8 am to 8 pm, at the Quesnel Recreation Centre again.

General voting is on February 2,  from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Polling stations will be located at École Red Bluff Lhtako Elementary, on Maple Drive in Quesnel, and the Kersley Community Hall on Edwards Rd in Kersley.

Nicole Audet and Chris Helmink are running to replace the late Mary Sjorstrom.

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Oceanside RCMP are warning local businesses after two companies lost tens of thousands of dollars in an email fraud scheme.

Police said in December and February, businesses sent electronic payments to what they believed were trusted suppliers, but the money never arrived.

Investigators said the businesses received emails claiming the suppliers had changed their banking information. After updating the accounts, payments were unknowingly sent to fraudsters instead.

RCMP said they believe the suppliers’ email accounts were compromised, allowing suspects to redirect the funds, which were later withdrawn from ATMs using accounts opened with fraudulent identification.

“While the investigations continue, police are asking that if you ever receive an email asking you to update electronic payment information, please confirm the accuracy of the email by telephoning the sender to confirm their request is legitimate,” reads a statement from Oceanside RCMP.

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Two Cowichan Valley residents are being recognised for their role in saving a life.

BC Emergency Health Services recently honoured Janice Pearson and Sarah Michaluk during a presentation in Duncan, acknowledging their actions in a cardiac arrest emergency.

The individuals assisted by calling 9-1-1 and providing CPR before paramedics arrived.

BC Emergency Health Services said early intervention from bystanders is often critical in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events, where immediate chest compressions can significantly improve survival chances. Vital Link Awards and Good Samaritan Awards recognise quick-thinking members of the public who step in during medical emergencies.

The recognition is part of the agency’s Community Awards program, which highlights members of the public who step in during medical emergencies.

Health officials said the awards serve as a reminder of the importance of CPR knowledge and community readiness.

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Cranbrook council has given three readings to a bylaw amendment that will raise cemetery fees by 20 per cent.

City staff said the increase will better align rates with fair market value.

It will also get the cemetery closer to breaking even.

In a report in 2024, the cemetery had an average net loss of $82,500 from 2018-2022.

With fee increases last year, the revenue rose from $21,962 to $52,441.

Another 20 per cent increase would bring annual revenue to approximately $65,000.

The bylaw will be adopted at a future meeting.

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School District 71 has released a statement following Tuesday’s mass shooting in northern British Columbia. 

In a letter to the community, Comox Valley Schools said classrooms across the district will take time to support students in age-appropriate ways.

The statement comes in the wake of the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, where multiple people were killed and others wounded at a secondary school.  

Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Morrow said counsellors and staff will be available to provide additional support to students who may need it. 

“Educators are reminding students that it is normal for people to respond differently to difficult news and encouraging them to speak with a trusted adult if they have questions or feelings they would like to share, consistent with the guidance being used in classrooms.”

Over the coming days and weeks, families are encouraged to work with schools to be responsive to changes in their child’s behaviour that may indicate a need for additional supports.

The district said parents should check in with their children, listen to their questions and reassure them that school is a safe place where caring adults are present to support them each day.  

Resources and supports are available to the community and can be found here. 

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Nanaimo RCMP are looking for witnesses or dashcam footage after a woman was hit by a truck. 

Police said the woman, in her late 60s, became trapped under the truck and was dragged after being struck in the 6600 block of Applecross Road at about 5:45 p.m. Feb. 11. 

“Officers arrived to find the victim being treated for her injuries by BCEHS and City of Nanaimo Fire and Rescue. The victim was transported for medical treatment,” said an RCMP news release. 

Police said the driver of the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado stopped and called emergency services. He was cooperative and the vehicle was seized for examination, RCMP said. 

The investigation is ongoing and police said no surveillance footage has been located. 

Police are asking anyone who was in the area between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Feb. 11 and may have footage or information to contact Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345. 

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The first Olympic experience for Evan Bichon won’t result in a podium finish.

The 27-year-old from Mackenzie was eliminated during one of the eighth-rounds in Men’s snowboard cross at the Litivigo Snow Park in Italy.

Bichon qualified in 11th spot after his first two runs. In the eighth-final, he placed third behind American Nick Baumgartner and Italian Lorenzo Sommariva.

Canadian Eliot Grondin claimed the silver medal, sandwiched between Austrian duo Alessandro Haemmerele (Gold) and Jakob Dusek (Bronze).

Overall, Bichon placed 17th out of 32 competitors.

Canada has six medals consisting of three bronze and three silvers.

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British Columbia’s housing minister is confident Lift Community Services will be able to run Powell River’s newest supportive housing shelter.

The 40-bed temporary homeless shelter on Barnet Street replaces the one on Joyce Avenue which closed last March after a lease wasn’t renewed.

In an interview with Vista Radio, Christine Boyle says community engagement has been helpful and important to allay fears or concerns.

“I am confident with Lift as a provider and the new purpose built shelter will make a difference as well in being better able to serve the folks who so badly need it and provide a better coordination and blending in in the community,” Boyle said.

The previous shelter on Joyce Avenue drew concerns from the community and the Westview Ratepayers Association over safety.

With fenced grounds, controlled access and a phone number for public complaints, Boyle says it will be more secure for both residents and neighbours.

“What we see in communities where we’ve done this work across the province is that providing people with safe indoor space helps to improve community safety by minimizing encampments and visible homeless so good outcomes on that point but also important security measures and designs in place in the new building,” she said.

The minister was asked about the co-location of qathet overdose prevention and whether that was a common setup in other homeless shelters in B.C.

Boyle says it’s “not common” but done where it makes sense and is based on needs. When pressed for a specific location other than Powell River, the minister couldn’t say, but said shelters don’t permit open drug use.

She was asked whether overdose prevention, including supervised consumption, would be a temptation to vulnerable individuals at the shelter.

“I know that staff at both the shelter and the overdose prevention site will be working to support people through health and recovery and that’s the intention of all of this work is to bring people inside where they can get a good sleep and rebuild that sense of diginity and safety…and then rebuild relationships with and trust with health care providers and other service providers,” Boyle said.

Powell River is among 15 (8 existing, 7 new) HEART (Homeless Encampment Action Response Team) and HEARTH (Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing) projects.

The Powell River HEARTH project should open sometime next month. The minister didn’t have an exact date for the opening.

The build cost is $4.6 million and it will cost $1.6 million a year to operate.

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The British Columbia government said Thursday, Feb. 12 will be proclaimed as a day of mourning in the province, after this week’s deadly shootings in Tumbler Ridge.

“The horrific shooting and tragic loss of life in Tumbler Ridge have devastated this small community and impacted people across B.C., Canada and around the world,” said a joint statement released Wednesday Government House Leader Mike Farnworth, Official Opposition House Leader Á’a:líya Warbus, and B.C. Greens House Leader Rob Botterell. 

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The statement said the legislative assembly will stand for a moment of silence at noon in honour of the victims.

The planned Throne Speech won’t go ahead on Thursday. Instead, B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor Wendy Cocchia will deliver a speech in the house dedicated to the people of Tumbler Ridge. That will be followed by brief legally required procedures ahead of the opening of the spring session of Parliament.

“The people of British Columbia mourn together with the people of Tumbler Ridge. We are united and will continue to ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days,” the leaders said. 

RCMP said nine people were killed, including the suspect, in Tuesday’s shootings at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a home in the northeastern B.C. community. 

The victims of the shooting at the school include a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old girls and two boys aged 12 and 13.

RELATED  RCMP identify suspect in Tumbler Ridge shooting that left 9 dead, injured dozens

Police said the suspect’s 39-year-old mother and and 11-year-old step-brother were also found dead at a local home.

The suspect is identified as 18-year-old Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar. Police said she was among those found dead at the school and two firearms were recovered from the scene. Police have not provided a motive for the shootings. 

RCMP said a 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old woman remain in serious condition in hospital. 

Premier David Eby visited Tumbler Ridge Wednesday afternoon, along with B.C. Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger and her federal counterpart, Gary Anandasangaree.  

“The full extent of what has happened has not sunk in. And there are going to be some long days, weeks and months ahead,” Eby said at Tumbler Ridge Town Hall.  

“For the parents, for the families, for the people of Tumbler Ridge, all of us here will make sure that the supports are here, knowing that they will never be adequate for what you’re going through,” he said.  

Anandasangaree said all levels of government are working to ensure the community is supported.  

B.C. Conservative interim leader Trevor Halford and Larry Neufeld, MLA for Peace River South, said in a joint statement the impact of the shootings is being felt by everyone. 

“My heart is broken for the province, for the people of Tumbler Ridge, for the parents, the students, the teachers, and the first responders,” said Halford.

Neufeld said he travelled to Tumbler Ridge from Victoria as soon as he heard of the incident. 

Condolences have poured in for the community from across Canada and around the world. 

“The nation mourns with you. Canada stands by you,” Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Parliament Hill Wednesday morning. He said the flags on the Peace Tower in Ottawa and at all government buildings would be flown at half-mast for the next seven days. 

King Charles also issued a statement, saying he and Queen Camilla were “profoundly shocked and saddened” to learn of the shootings. 

“In such a closely connected town, every child’s name will be known and every family will be a neighbor,” said the King. “We can only begin to imagine the appalling shadow that has now descended across Tumbler Ridge and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been shattered by this senseless act of brutal violence.”

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said in a social media post on Wednesday, “Our hearts and prayers are with the community of Tumbler Ridge and all of British Columbia today.”

The leaders of Australia, Germany, France, Ukraine, India and other countries around the globe also issued statements sharing their condolences.

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A proposal to build a new commercial marina on the West Arm of Kootenay Lake in Nelson is moving through the federal approval process, with construction aiming to begin in spring 2027.

According to an application filed with Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program, the project, referred to as the Culos Marina, would be located at 701 Lakeside Dr., across the road from the Shoreline housing development that is currently under construction.

The proponent submitted the application in November, outlining plans for a 60-slip marina connected to the shore by a 90-metre walkway and ramp. The document states that at least half of the slips, 30, would be reserved for non-motorized vessels.

The proponent also plans to build a 590-square-metre retail platform to house a future restaurant, expected to be built about one year after the marina is complete.

The marina would be located on Crown land. The proponent has submitted a Crown lease application to the province. The foreshore is owned by the City of Nelson.

The legal land description identifies the tenure area as unsurveyed Crown foreshore forming part of the bed of Kootenay Lake, fronting several district lots in the Kootenay District and covering approximately 2.98 hectares.

Kootenay Lake’s West Arm is listed under the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, requiring the project to undergo federal review and approval before construction.

The application states that construction materials would be transported by barge and by land. It also anticipates high-frequency pile driving, although the number of piles has not been determined.

Embedded anchors may be used instead of pilings in deeper areas.

Pier decking would be installed using a barge and crane, and the ramp would connect to an existing shoreline walkway.

Construction is scheduled to begin April 1, 2027, with completion targeted for June 30, 2027.

Project documents acknowledge that the marina would likely increase boat traffic along the West Arm and potentially the larger lake. However, the proponent notes that the site is already zoned by the city for marina use.

“The proposed marina is located within an area that has been zoned by the City of Nelson for a marina, with adjacent existing similar uses (i.e., a private marina with 80 slips (Prestige Yacht Club) and the Kootenay Launch Club with 70 boat houses just downstream,” reads the proposal.

According to the submission, an assessment of potential impacts to fish and aquatic habitat has been completed.

Masse Environmental Consultants Ltd. prepared a construction environmental management plan aimed at minimizing environmental effects.

Proposed mitigation measures include conducting an aquatic habitat assessment to inform project risks and retaining an environmental monitor during construction to ensure compliance with permits, approvals and environmental protection requirements.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is among the federal organizations involved in the review.

The project is not considered a designated project under the Impact Assessment Act and is not located on federal lands, according to the filing.

Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program reviews works built in navigable waters to ensure they do not interfere with navigation rights.

Federal approval is pending.

A copy of the application is available through Transport Canada’s public registry. Public comments are being accepted online, by mail and by email until March 7.

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Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) has been listed as being one of one hundred top employers in the Province.

WLFN Chief Administration Officer, Kourtney Cook, said it’s an annual independent workplace award recognizing employers in British Columbia who have an exceptional work environment, people, and practices.

“We are one of the first Indigenous Governments in the country to win the award so it’s definitely a high honor and we’re pretty excited about it. The HR team as well as the rest of the leadership here in Administration we’ve had to keep it a secret for a little while. We’ve known for the past 3 months and it was great to share the award with the staff who really are the earners of that.”

Cook said Williams Lake First Nation has 120 employees working out of the Quigli Administration office and a downtown office on Yorston Street, as well as multiple offices within the community.

We asked Cook what she though some of the main factors were for making this list.

“I think there are a number of things. Workplace culture, benefits and compensation, employee development and training, community involvement, and family focused. We really just worked hard to create a workplace where people feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do meaningful work. I really want to thank the incredible leadership we have, Chief Sellars and Council, and the employees for the work they do every day. This award is a reflection of their dedication and the future we’re building together.”

Cooked added that WLFN is growing rapidly and this recognition tells us that we’re on the right path and we’re building a good foundation for the future.

“We’re going to keep doing the best we can, keep growing, keep supporting the region as a whole, as well as putting our community on the forefront of all the amazing and wonderful things that we are going to keep doing.

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In the face of online criticism, Grand Forks city council has agreed to move its meeting times to evenings, but only after the next council is sworn in.

Councillor Rod Zielinski introduced a motion this week to switch the last two meetings of the year, on Nov. 23 and Dec. 14, to evening start times, which council later set as 6 p.m.

Zielinski said while the move will not affect the current council, he hoped that it might encourage working people who might be reluctant to run for office because they can’t make it to meetings during the day.

“It seems like there’s a thought that meeting times might hinder some people’s ability to voice their freedom of speech and run for this table,” he said. 

However, councillor Deborah Lafleur, who voted against the idea, said she is not sure that a different start time will make much difference and felt it should be up to the next council to decide when they want to meet.

“I have posted every agenda of our meetings,” she said. “Only twice have I been asked questions about the agenda. I fear it’s voter apathy. I believe this council has been very available to people. We’re out in the community.”

Councillor David Mark said he had no objection to meeting in the evening, but did not think meeting times were a key obstacle to public engagement with local government.

“I’ve seen people say that they didn’t attend budget meetings because the budget isn’t interesting. [Yet] nothing happens without the budget. That’s where all your gripes and complaints go to die is with the money. So it’s very, very important.

“I’d love it if people prove me wrong and we have a bunch of people attend and are very interested in sharing their concerns or running for office.”

Mark said when he was first elected, he was interested in moving meetings to evenings, but he has found the current council seems to function better during the day.

Councillor Christine Thompson said she suspected evening meetings would encourage younger people to run for office, although she prefers morning meetings herself.

Grand Forks council presently meets twice a month on Mondays starting at 10 a.m.

While many councils meet in the evening, daytime meetings are not uncommon in local government. Regional District of Kootenay Boundary meetings begin at 1 p.m. Castlegar holds committee of the whole meetings at 3 p.m. and reconvenes at 7 p.m. for regular council. Trail’s committee of the whole begins at 2 or 3 p.m. and regular council is at 6 p.m.

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A former Trail church pastor accused of sexual offences will stand trial this summer.

Robert Shaun Romano is expected to be in court in Rossland from Aug. 17-19.

An application will first be heard on March 13.

Romano was charged on Jan. 29, 2025 with sexual exploitation and sexual assault. The offences are alleged to have occurred on Nov. 12, 2024 at or near Trail, but no details of the allegations have been publicly disclosed.

The church has not commented on the case.

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The Trail Smoke Eaters have a new 20-year-old forward.

Gabe Bugeaud comes over from Victoria for future considerations.

The deal was made just before Tuesday’s 4 p.m. BCHL trade deadline.

The six-foot-one, 185-pounder from Quebec had 13 goals in 30 games with St. Cloud of the North American Hockey League.

He had a goal and one assist in eight games after joining the Grizzlies.

Bugeaud also spent two seasons with Dauphin in the Manitoba Junior League where he totaled 32 goals and 34 assists for 66 points in 107 regular season games.

Before jumping to junior hockey, he spent three seasons developing his skills at the famed Notre Dame College in Saskatchewan.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old winger and leading point man Christian Kim is the BCHL’s second star for last week.

The cunning Californian had two goals and three assists in his two games.

Kim scored in last Wednesday’s 2-1 win over Cranbrook and added a goal and three assists in Friday’s 6-4 win over the Warriors.

He did not play Saturday in West Kelowna due to an illness.

Kim is tied for 11th in the BCHL points race with 45 in 37 games, including 31 assists and is headed to the U-S Air Force next season to start his NCAA career.

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The City of Castlegar will add increased funding for three community organizations to its budget this year, although there is no guarantee the higher amounts will be approved.

The Castlegar and District Heritage Society, which manages the Station Museum, Zuckerberg Island, and the Farmers Market, requested $63,000 from the city this year, plus a $5,000 one-time boost for refurbishment projects. In 2025, the society received $46,500. It has also received $7,000 for capital projects every three years. The increase amounts to over $16,000, or 35 per cent.

The society, which has begun a rejuvenation project, hasn’t received a funding increase since 2021. The city’s finance staff suggested the bump could be phased in over a couple of years, using money received as part of an agreement with the local casino.

Meanwhile, the library has requested $366,000 in 2026, up from $349,000 in 2025, an increase of $17,000 or five per cent, to be funded through taxation. The library received no increase in 2024 and an extra three per cent in 2025.

The Castlegar Festival Society, which puts on Sunfest, has asked for $30,000 this year, up from $18,000 last year, an increase of $12,000 or 67 per cent.

Finance staff noted that “Increased costs and reductions in corporate sponsorship have left the society unable to cover the essential costs required to deliver a safe, well-organized and high-quality event.”

Staff recommended the society receive $24,000, funded from the city’s casino reserve.

Council agreed to put the increases in their budget, but noted the amounts could be adjusted.

Mayor Maria McFaddin said she was comfortable with the suggested figures in each case but wrestled with the increase for the festival society, because while she loves Sunfest, it takes place over a single weekend.

Councillor Sue Heaton-Sherstobitoff agreed: “They do great work, but our contribution is more than money. We do have to balance that out.”

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Premier David Eby arrived in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., where nine people died in a mass shooting Tuesday.

Flanked by community members, first responders and fellow politicians outside Tumbler Ridge town hall, Eby said he had only seen a “thousandth” of what the community is dealing with and called it an incredibly strong community.

“Everybody’s worried about someone else,” he said.

“Every single person has said “just make sure you’re looking after this group of people”, everybody is reaching out to support someone else in this community right now.”

Eby said it’s also a community in shock, and that the full extent of what has happened hasn’t sunk in.

“We we’re down the street at a vigil, put together by some community members, just people who wanted to have a chance to come together, as one of the speakers said, to have a physical representation of how the community is pulling together to support these parents, these families, who’ve lost loved ones,” he said.

Eby said one speaker spoke about Maya, one of the victims who is currently fighting for her life in hospital.

“We were asked as a group to take a moment of silence, to pray, however people pray, or reflect, to send strength to that family right now,” Eby said.

“That moment for me is representative of the profound tragedy, a beautiful child who went to school, who was full of joy and love. She’s clinging to life in a hospital right now.”

Eby said they will make sure all the supports are available, “knowing that they will never be adequate” for what the families are going through.

Eby was joined by federal Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree, who said he is heartbroken.

“The depth of this despair, we see acts of heroism,” Anandasangaree said.

“As we mourn the death, senseless death, of so many young people, what we can do here as a federal government is to support the local community, to support the Mayor, to support the families, to support the first responders, to support the teachers, and to ensure that we’re with them every step of the way.”

Anandasangaree said he has been to many vigils in his life, but he’s never seen this many children attend one.

“That’s tragic. Everyone of those children there today are going to carry the scars of yesterday,” he said.

“As they grow, we will need to continue to support them, and their parents, and their community.”

His provincial counterpart, B.C. Minister of Public Safety Nina Krieger said the loss the community has suffered is immeasurable.

“Among the losses was an educator, doing one of the most important jobs in our society,” she said.

“Young students who had their entire lives ahead of them, and members of a family who should have been safe in their homes. To the families who are grieving, to the students who witnessed what no child should ever see, to the teachers and school staff who acted with courage to protect those in their care, and to the first responders, who move towards danger without hesitation, we stand with you, and we thank you.”

The final speaker was Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, who expressed gratitude to the provincial and federal governments and other agencies for quickly getting counsellors and other supports into the community.

“It is so important when we see a tragedy like this, with young lives lost, families don’t have their children coming home last night,” he said, visibly and audibly upset.

“I think it was really important to see that, and I thank the government, they came right to bat, and I can’t thank them enough for that.”

He asked people to be there for each other, and encouraged people to talk to each other.

“Everyone’s going to be grieving in Tumbler Ridge, and we’re one big family, and I can’t say that enough,” he said.

“Lend your ear when somebody needs your ear, lend your shoulder when somebody needs your shoulder, give somebody a hug.”

He also asked media in attendance to give the families space to grieve.

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If it wasn’t for the howling, biting wind, you could hear a pin drop in Tumbler Ridge on Wednesday.

The air felt heavy in the northeastern B.C. community of about 2,700 people, where a mass shooting claimed nine lives and injured dozens more.

RCMP identify suspect in Tumbler Ridge shooting that left 9 dead, injured dozens | https://t.co/y0f3N6QExS #cityofpg #PrinceGeorge #northernbc #bcpoli #TumblerRidge #TumblerRidgeSecondarySchool pic.twitter.com/BHGzGYukix

— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) February 11, 2026

Some residents, including Robin Li, said it is hard not to know someone affected by the tragedy.

“It may not be directly implicate to your family, but for sure, someone you know may lose a kid, or someone of their close family members may lose a kid, or have a kid in the hospital for the entire night,”

“We only have roughly 120, 130 kids in the high school, and 25 of them got injured, and six dead, that’s like one of four.”

Olivia Li said it’s devastating and shocking.

“It’s so quiet here, everything is quiet, I work from home and I saw kids playing on the street all the time,” she said.

“We saw that on the news, and that was like ‘is that Tumbler? Sure? Is it Tumbler?’ It’s just shocking and unbelievable, not even imaginable in such a place.”

Li said she feels sorry for the parents experiencing the tragedy firsthand.

“We can’t even do anything for them,” she added.

“Yes, we can do financial support, yes we can do this and that, but you can’t really heal those kinds of things. It’s not something that you can fix it, from the outside.”

She added she feels “helpless.”

Sierra, who didn’t give a last name, said there’s no words for what happened.

“Everybody knows everybody, so I think that makes it harder,” she said.

“We’re a very tightknit community and it’s just not something you would expect.”

She said the best word to describe the emotions in the community is “heavy.”

“Just deep, deep sadness,” she said.

“I know when I found out the amount of people that were injured, I just cried, because, you just couldn’t imagine, like it’s something that, we don’t even have any children and you just don’t want anybody to ever feel that way about having their kids gone and thinking that they went to school one day and they’re never to come home again.”

Justmit, Sierra’s husband, said he didn’t have many words.

“Nobody was looking forward to this yesterday when we woke up in the morning,” he said.

Not many people wanted to speak on yesterday’s events, but in passing conversation, you could hear the heartbreak in their voices, and see it on their faces.

Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka issued the following statement Wednesday:

“Today our community grieves together.

“We are devastated by the loss of life and the profound impact this tragedy has had on families, students, staff and our entire district and region. Our community has been shaken by this tragedy. We are grieving alongside the families and individuals most directly affected. This is a painful time for all. Our deepest condolences are with the loved ones of those who have been lost. We are holding close everyone who is injured, grieving and affected.

“On behalf of the District, I want to thank the brave teachers, administrators, students and first responders who acted selflessly, putting their own safety aside to help those in need and to prevent further tragedy.

“We recognize that there are many questions to be answered as we all try to make sense of this incomprehensible and devastating event. We ask residents to rely only on confirmed information provided through official RCMP updates as the investigation continues.

“Our community is strong; we are family; we need to help each other. We encourage residents to check in on one another and hold your loved ones close as we navigate this unimaginable loss together. For those who require support, counselling or mental health services, those are available at the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre.

“We understand the need for our community to come together. While local community members are organizing gatherings, plans are also underway for a community vigil in the coming days. Information will be provided here once those plans are in place.

“We understand the interest and appreciate offers for support. At this time, we ask for respect and privacy for all who have been impacted by these horrible events.”

Additionally, the province has organized an online book of condolences, which will remain open until Feb. 20.

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The Northern Health Authority issued a statement today (Wednesday) on the various mental supports available to Tumbler Ridge.

“Our hearts are with the community of Tumbler Ridge following yesterday’s tragic events. We recognize that many people may be feeling shocked, overwhelmed, or distressed, and want residents to know that mental health supports are available and accessible to anyone who needs them.

• BC’s Mental Health Line at 310‑6789
• 9‑8‑8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text)
• Bereavement and Grief Support Line 1-877-779-2223
• Kid’s Help Phone, available by texting CONNECT to 686868
• KUU‑US Crisis Response Service at 1‑800‑588‑8717 for culturally aware support for Indigenous peoples
• Northern Health virtual and community mental health services 1-844-645-7811“

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

Winter Games:

Toronto based couple Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier earned the bronze medal for Canada in ice dance figure skating.

It was the third bronze and fourth overall medal for Canadian athletes at the Winter Games.

The first three medals for Canada included the Canadian mixed relay team with silver in short track speed skating, freestyle skier Megan Oldham of Ontario taking bronze in the women’s slopestyle and Quebec speedskater Valerie Maltais earning a bronze in the women’s 3,000 metres.

#

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

Prince George long-track speed skater Caroline Hiller-Donnelly competes in the 500m Sunday (8 AM PT).

Hiller-Donnelly placed 26th out of 30 in the 1000m race Monday.

Ski cross racer Gavin Rowell of Prince George won’t participate at the Games until Saturday, Feb. 21st (1 AM PT).

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

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

#

The Canadian men’s hockey team plays its first game in Italy today (7:40 am PT Thursday) against Czechia.

The (1-1) Canadian women’s hockey team goes against Finland today (5:30 AM PT).

WHL:

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

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just one point ahead of the
(27-17-5-2) Kelowna Rockets and only two points in front of the (25-17-6-4) Blazers.

The Rockets beat the Wenatchee Wild 8-4 Wednesday night.

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

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988

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

• Métis Crisis Line: 1-833-638-4722

• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Baker is scheduled to return home on Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More details, including registration information, are available here.

– Article includes link from Canadian Mental Health Association

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The City of Nelson also issued a statement expressing condolences.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The city will be weighing next steps for the property.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Scott McInnis offered similar sentiments.

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

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

More information on the shooting can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

That would be recovered through utility fees.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— John Rustad (@JohnRustad4BC) February 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More information can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So far, over 48-grand has been raised.

A link to the page can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He is wanted on three unendorsed warrants for the following:

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

Pashe is described as:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So far, over 48-grand has been raised.

A link to the page can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A link to the page can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

– with files from Darin Bain, MyPGNow.com staff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kendrick has also earned himself an NHL tryout.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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

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

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

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

Other major projects included on the list were:

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

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

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

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

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

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

More details can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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This is a test from Ash, please leave this post as is.

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

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

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

City Councillor Scott Nelson was pleased with the decision.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More details can be found here.

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

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

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

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

The public board meeting has been postponed until further notice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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

Winter Games:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHL:

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

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

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

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

-story by Darin Bain-MyPGNow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The driver was arrested at the scene.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

–Files by Tavi Dhillon, My Peace Region Now

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Louie said the broader goal is visibility and solidarity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But now that relationship is done, said Louie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Another provincial championship is coming to the northern capital.

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

It runs until Sunday.

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

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

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

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

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

Foote said the majority of those were for fire alarms.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HEARTH sites provide emergency housing and sheltering options.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All submissions must include a completed time capsule submission form.

Every submission will be vetted by the district.

Items will be accepted until April 30.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The full quarterly report can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The truck has not been recovered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benny added audiences were wonderful and welcoming.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The property work was completed on Feb. 7. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She also competes for Nechako Valley Secondary School.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“It was brutal,” said the former King.

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

Harder says his first shift as a Smokie was memorable.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greene had his own thoughts on the trip.

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

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

Greene had an outstanding game Saturday in West Kelowna.

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

Greene says he likes the tough going.

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

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

His introduction to hockey came early.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winter Games:

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

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

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

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

Ski cross racer Gavin Rowell won’t participate until Saturday, Feb. 21st (1 AM PT).

Colby Graham of P.G. is an alternate on the men’s snowboard cross team.

WHL:

The Cougars and Blazers have a home and home against each other this week as the two teams play Friday in P.G. and Saturday in Kamloops.

The (30-19-2) Cougars are second in the B.C. Division, just two points ahead of the
(25-17-6-4) Blazers and three in front of the (26-17-5-2) Kelowna Rockets.

Prince George has just 17 games left in the regular season; 7 at home and 10 on the road.

The PG Cougars regular season schedule and results are here.

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Creston’s emergency warming centre will open overnight tonight, Monday Feb. 9, due to forecast conditions.

The centre will operate from 8 p.m. Monday to 8 a.m. Tuesday at 138 10th Ave. N., in the former Work Experience Program dormitory on the former fire hall property, adjacent to the former ambulance bay.

The emergency warming centre provides a safe, warm and dry place of refuge, with access to washrooms, seating, snacks and refreshments.

“Everyone is welcome.” said the Town of Creston.

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The Creston Valley Thundercats are preparing to usher in a new era, announcing plans to rebrand the junior hockey club after 25 years under the Thundercats name.

The organization announced last week it is adopting a new team name, colours and logo, with the final decision to be guided by community feedback gathered through an online survey that also went live last week.

General manager Brandon Buliziuk said the move comes after several seasons of increased engagement with fans and a strong response to a throwback jersey earlier this season.

“Over the past couple seasons, we’ve really been getting engaged with our fan base and just listening, and we heard a lot around the idea of what initially started with a potential change back to the Creston Valley Thunder, which was the team name prior to their joining the KIJHL,” he explained.

Last season, the team debuted a third jersey featuring the former Thunder name, which was well received not only locally but throughout the entire Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.

“We made the decision that we were going to create a third jersey for this year in the Thunder name to see what the feedback was like. So we did that and we got tremendous feedback throughout the season on the logo and the name, not just locally, but around the league.”

Rather than settling on a new identity right away, Buliziuk said the organization opted to involve the community directly through a survey shared with fans, sponsors and the community.

“We would like to entirely make this decision based on community feedback. We’re a community-owned and operated club, and I’d like to see the direction that we go in be in line with what the community wants.”

While the Thundercats name will be retired, the team’s history will still be honoured.

“I think that that’ll be a piece of history going forward. there’s always the potential for certain elements to be retained,” said Buliziuk.

“All options are on the table for the board to consider. But I think we’re excited to look at something new going forward here or a modernized version of old, if that’s what the community vote on.”

He added the timing of the rebrand also aligns with practical needs, including uniform and equipment replacements.

“We have a lot of things that just, through time and wear and tear, now need to be replaced. We need to replace our centre ice logo, all our uniforms are due to get turned over. And so it fits with doing it this season as a lot of those financial commitments are going to take place regardless.”

The club hopes the rebrand will build on growing community support, with Buliziuk noting attendance this season has nearly doubled compared to previous years.

“We’ve seen a tremendous success this season with our commitment from our fans. Our attendance is almost over double the average that it’s been in the past. Great crowds at the games, and it’s about giving the community an entertainment piece and simultaneously providing a great hockey environment for the boys.”

The survey is expected to close in February. After that, the board will review the results.

Buliziuk said he hopes to announce the new team name in early March, followed by logo and branding development in the following four to six weeks.

“We’re really grateful for all the engagement. The survey has been getting huge numbers of responses. We love the community support. It’s the community’s team. And we’re really grateful for everything our fans and sponsors continue to put into this organization.”

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The Prince George RCMP say a missing person has been located deceased.

According to police, the person was reported missing on Saturday, and was last seen near a residence on the 16700 block of East Perry Road.

They say it was unknown when they had left the residence or their exact destination.

“Police officers quickly determined that Prince George Search and Rescue would be a valuable partner in this investigation,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“After two days of searching with police officers, Search and Rescue volunteers, and a police dog services team, the person was located deceased on February 8, a short distance from the residence.”

Cooper says foul play is not suspected in this case.

The RCMP’s Victim Services unit has been engaged to work with the friends and family of the deceased.

The investigation is now with the B.C. Coroners Service, and police will not be providing any further information.

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The Prince George RCMP used a few methods to help track down a break and enter suspect.

The investigation began at about 8:30 on Thursday evening, when police received multiple reports of a vehicle crashing into the sidewalk near Ferry Avenue and Highway 16 west.

According to police, the driver of the vehicle was seen running away from the incident site, and the vehicle was found to have been stolen a short time prior to the crash occurring.

A short time later, Mounties received a report of a residential break-and-enter where the suspect had run into an occupied home on Watson Crescent, and was scared off by the homeowner. The homeowner reported seeing the suspect, who was described as wearing similar clothing as the driver from the crash, flee into her backyard.

Investigators called in the Police Service Dog Unit, and deployed a drone to assist with tracking from above the neighbourhood.

“When the drone located an individual moving quickly though the area, the police officer was able to relay this information to the police service dog team, who could then quickly narrow down the scope of their search,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“This blend of tactics enabled police to located the suspect rapidly, before he had the opportunity to enter any more homes or vehicles.”

The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Prince George resident Micheal Dean Burger, was arrested and held for court.

According to police, it was discovered that Burger had an unendorsed warrant in his name, and was in breach of a current probation order.

Burger has been charged with:

• Break and enter and theft,
• Break and enter with the intent to commit an indictable offense,
• Theft of motor vehicle,
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000,
• Resisting arrest,
• Fail to comply with release order

Police say Burger will remain in custody until his next court appearance.

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Welcome to Hartley’s Cat Scan!

This is a weekly podcast featuring the ‘who’s who’ of the Prince George Cougars.

Hartley’s guest this week is Cougars co-owner and President John Pateman.

During the episode, he discussed several topics including:

• Cougars winning ways; NCAA changes
• Ownership being paired to five people
• Carson Carels; some of the staff changes the Cats have endured
• Equipment and Hockey stick budget
• Rankings within the WHL Player Survey

You can also find this podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, and TuneIn.

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The City of Campbell River Airport (YBL) is welcoming WestJet to the community.

The airline was officially welcomed at a ceremony at the local airport on Monday, Feb. 9. The event began with a land acknowledgement and a performance by Wei Wai Kum First Nation drummers and dancers, followed by remarks from Chief Chris Roberts.

At the ceremony, it was announced that WestJet will begin seasonal service between Campbell River and Calgary starting in the spring. WestJet’s new route will operate daily beginning May 15, offering connections between YBL and Calgary International Airport’s hub, with onward access to destinations across North America and beyond.

Plans call for four trips each way per week from May until October, with daily flights through the peak summer season.

Airport manager Dennis Brodie said the service will help connect Campbell River to the rest of the world and will be great for the local tourism sector.

Dennis Brodie comments:

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The Bulkley Valley Rod and Gun Club is celebrating a century in the region.

It was first established in 1926 primarily as a wildlife and fish conservation and since grown to include sport shooting.

“Around here, it was basically just preserving the fish; preserving the animals to hunt and we’re still doing that. It’s probably at least half of what we do,” said President David Helps.

He added the group lasting as long as it has shows a lot of people in the Bulkley Valley are interested in conservation.

The move to include sport shooting and fishing didn’t start until the mid-70s with an update to its constitution.

Helps added in the last 100 years, the largest impact that’s been felt has been around the federal governments gun bans through the last 10 years.

“We have strived to be relatively apolitical over the years but its got to the point now we have not choice,” he said.

A main point mentioned was the ban on hand gun sales as it led to a drop in memberships.

This was because a restricted possession and acquisition license was needed to buy a hand gun and required the person to be a gun club member.

“If it keeps going the way it’s going, there won’t be any membership here in another 10 years,” said Helps.

He added the ban has also had an impact on sport shooting.

“Sport shooting is practically non-existent here in Smithers other than long-range accuracy shooting with rifles and trap shooting with shotguns.”

With the centennial, the club is incorporating 100 years into the various events it holds including a banquet held earlier this year, and several open houses through the summer.

Information about events can be found on the club’s Facebook page.

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The Prince George RCMP say a missing person has been located deceased.

According to police, the person was reported missing on Saturday, and was last seen near a residence on the 16700 block of East Perry Road.

They say it was unknown when they had left the residence or their exact destination.

“Police officers quickly determined that Prince George Search and Rescue would be a valuable partner in this investigation,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.

“After two days of searching with police officers, Search and Rescue volunteers, and a police dog services team, the person was located deceased on February 8, a short distance from the residence.”

Cooper says foul play is not suspected in this case.

The RCMP’s Victim Services unit has been engaged to work with the friends and family of the deceased.

The investigation is now with the B.C. Coroners Service, and police will not be providing any further information.

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Another milestone has been reached for Courtenay’s featured infrastructure project. 

The 6th Street Active Transportation Bridge had towers installed on each side of the Courtenay River, with each standing just over 16 metres tall.  

The east-side tower at Simms Millennium Park and the west-side tower were both installed in January 2026, marking a key phase of construction.  

Each tower is assembled over three days before being lifted into place, and the process was delayed by a few days due to flooding in the area. 

The City of Courtenay said despite the delays, the project remains on schedule.  

The city added the tower installations represent a major step toward project completion.  

The 6th Street bridge will be a four-metre-wide, symmetrical, cable-stayed crossing designed for pedestrians and cyclists.

It is intended to improve connectivity between downtown and Simms Millennium Park once complete in late 2026. 

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An annual burbot recovery mission will take place on Moyie Lake during the final two weeks of February.

Teams from the Ktunaxa Nation Council, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and the B.C. government will work together to catch, tag, and release burbot, while collecting some of their eggs. The collection helps rebuild the burbot population in the lower Kootenay while natural spawning recovers. 

Burbot egg collection happens during the burbot spawning season in February. The eggs are taken to hatcheries where they are raised to different life stages, then released back into certain areas of the Kootenay River system, Idaho and B.C.

In 2009, several governments and organizations partnered to start a formal recovery program after the burbot fish species were close to disappearing in the 1990s. Before the decline the lower Kootenay burbot population supported First Nations fisheries, and recreational fisheries in Montana, Idaho and B.C.   

Moyie Lake egg collections are vital because problems like the Libby Dam and changes to the river habitat have made natural burbot spawning inconsistent. Although the hatchery woodwork is still needed, most burbot are left to spawn naturally as only a tiny fraction of eggs are collected each year.

All burbot handled in the program which is supported and led in partnership with the Ktunaxa Nation Council are tagged and released alive. The Moyie Lake project is helping guide other burbot recovery and benefit  projects in the Upper Kootenay region.

Since the program began, staff have recaptured fish from these releases, which indicates the program is successful. Data collected from the program tells that Moyie Lake now has a healthy burbot population of about 10,000 fish.

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Canal Flats Fire Rescue snuffed out an early morning structure fire on Saturday.

Crews were called out at 1:54 a.m. on Feb. 7 to Bailley Grohman Avenue.

The occupant and pets were accounted for, but unfortunately the mobile home was a loss.

Fairmont Fire Rescue and Windermere Fire Rescue also responded.

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The Ktunaxa Nation has issued a travel advisory over ongoing immigration issues south of the border.

The ʔaq̓am First Nation had previously issued a travel warning and a number of First Nations across Canada have been doing the same.

“Ktunaxa Nation Council recognizes the importance of cross-border travel for family, cultural, economic and personal reasons, and has serious concerns about the safety of our citizens in relation to border crossings and enforcement practices,” the First Nation said.

There have been instances of detainment and delays, as well as Indigenous-specific documentation not being consistently recognized by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.

The Jay Treaty affirms the right of Indigenous Peoples to freely cross the border, however, enforcement and interpretation of those rights can vary by border office or agency.

More information on travel precautions and additional information on your rights can be found here.

The First Nation will be coordinating support with the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho.

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Sparwood council has mixed feelings over staff’s decision to turn off commenting on the district’s social media accounts.

Last month the district shut off all commenting on social media, citing that a substantial number of comments do not meet the municipality’s expectations for constructive or respectful dialogue.

However, council didn’t have a say on the decision. Under the district’s bylaw, staff were allowed to make that choice.

Councillor Steve Kallies said normally he’s fine with whatever the outcome is on a vote, even if he’s not for it, but wants to make it clear that council didn’t decide.

“When council decides, that’s it, it’s a group decision. In this case, if and when I’m challenged on it, I’m going to be public that this was not council decision,” he said.

“I just want to be transparent on that.”

Councillor John Baher stands by staff’s decision.

“I am totally in support of staff about turning the comments off. There are so many other opportunities and ways that the public can comment if they wish to. They can come in and talk to staff directly or a council member, they all have our email addresses and our social medias,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s the least little bit comforting when staff have to deal with keyboard warriors that decide that they want to start something because they’re board that day. I have no qualms with the commenting being turned off and I hope that it stays that way.”

For the decision to be overturned a councillor would have to bring forward a motion to amend the bylaw that allows staff to turn off commenting.

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Nanaimo is recognizing outstanding contributions to arts and culture with its annual Culture Awards. The 2026 winners will be honoured at a free community celebration at the Port Theatre on April 14.  

This year’s recipients are being recognized for their work in theatre, music and the promotion of heritage and history.  

Leon Potter is a theatre artist, mentor and long-time faculty member at Vancouver Island University. 

“Potter has trained and mentored generations of emerging artists while elevating professional standards across disciplines. Through his directing, adjudicating, producing and leadership in major cultural events, Potter’s artistic integrity and commitment to collaboration have strengthened Nanaimo’s reputation as a centre for creative excellence,” the city said in a news release.  

Luis Porretta is a music promoter who has worked through Quadwrangle Music for more than 20 years. 

“Known for his generosity, mentorship and tireless volunteer efforts, Porretta’s work has strengthened relationships between artists, venues and audiences and contributed significantly to Nanaimo’s vibrant live-music ecosystem,” the city said.  

Brian McFadden is a long-time volunteer and president of the Vancouver Island Military Museum. He has researched, designed and developed many of the museum’s exhibits. 

“His work emphasises Nanaimo’s contributions to military service in both wartime and peacekeeping contexts, with a strong focus on education, remembrance and community connection,” the city said. “Through education, outreach, guided tours and advocacy, McFadden’s leadership and scholarship have strengthened community understanding, remembrance and pride in Nanaimo’s history.”  

Award recipients are selected by Nanaimo city council and are nominated by the community. The decisions are reviewed by a panel of past winners and community leaders. 

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Construction is set to begin soon on a pump track above the Halfmoon Bay community hall. 

The Sunshine Coast Regional District says construction of the community hall is on schedule and it is set to open this summer. The project is largely funded through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.  

“Visitors to the area will have noticed the hall really starting to take shape,” reads a news release from the SCRD. “In the past few weeks construction crews have completed a significant amount of work on the inside of the hall including insulation and drywall.”  

The SCRD says landscape plans are complete and will begin to take shape once the hardscaping is done.  

If weather conditions allow, work on the pump track will begin in the coming weeks.  

Construction on the community hall began in April last year. 

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Sugden says it has a pumping capacity of 750 gallons per minute.

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A representative for mill workers in North Cowichan addressed council to oppose the idea of a special task force to identify why mills are closing in the region. 

Adrian Soldera, president of Public and Private Workers of Canada Local 8, spoke to North Cowichan council on Feb. 4, saying everyone already knows why the mills are closing and that a new task force would be a waste of time. 

“On the surface it sounds reasonable, but this task force is not just unnecessary. It’s also a dangerous distraction,” Soldera said. “We don’t need more explorers; we need a rescue plan.” 

He said the Crofton mill is ending several jobs at its plant and that the Chemainus sawmill now faces extended curtailment efforts due to what he called a fibre crisis. Soldera added that putting another group together to investigate why the mills are closing would be redundant.  

Industry reporting shows the Crofton pulp mill is closing permanently, with about 350 jobs affected, and the Chemainus sawmill’s curtailment has been extended amid weak market conditions and log supply challenges. 

“Asking a task force to study these things is like asking for a committee to study why a house is on fire while the roof is already collapsing,” Soldera said. “Every day this task force spends sitting in a boardroom another family in a mill town wonders if they can pay their mortgage. Task forces are where things go to die.” 

The motion to form the task force was eventually withdrawn during the Feb. 4 meeting, and Soldera said he is appreciative council decided to change direction so resources can be diverted to support workers and families who need it. 

“We have a situation where a number of workers in our community no longer have jobs, and those are the members who need assistance,” he said. “We don’t need to waste time and money getting reports, we need action to get this to government.” 

Soldera said the forestry industry in B.C. is in a dire situation and that government needs to look at sustainable forestry to make changes. Industry groups have warned that mill closures reflect long-standing challenges in B.C.’s forest sector, including weak markets and limited access to affordable fibre. 

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There was no shortage of podium trips for Prince George Judo athletes at the BC Provincial Championships in Abbotsford.

Over the weekend, 23 medals were collected from athletes affiliated with the Hart, Northern Capital and Prince George clubs over three days.

The medal winners are as follows:

Gold (11)

Kiya Wisniowski – U18 Advanced Female – 63 kg

Olivia Wisniowski – U18 Advanced Female +70kg and Senior Female +78kg

Ayden Jacobsen – U16 Novice – 50kg

Graham Pryschlak – U16 Advanced -73kg

Yannick Schimann – U18 Advanced Male – 60kg

Cadence Morris – U16 Advanced Female – 63kg

Shane Grooten – U16 Advanced Male – 66 kg

Sylvie Schimann – U16 Advanced Female – 44 kg

Ryland Cleave – U14 Advanced Male – 66kg

Owen Richards – U14 Male – 60kg

Silver (5)

Cadence Morris – U16 Female – 63kg

Meagan Grooten – Seniors – 63 kg

Ryan Bennett – U16 Advanced Male – 73kg

Lucas Austman – U16 Advanced Male – 60kg

Kiya Wisniowski – U16 Advanced Female – 63kg

Bronze (7)

Maegan Grooten – Under 21 Female – 63kg

Shane Grooten – Under 18 Male – 66kg

Zoe Schimann – Under 16 Female – 44kg

Emily Austman – Under 14 Female – 52kg

Mia Willows – U14 Advanced Female – 57 kg and U16 Female Advanced -57kg

Simon Wisniowki – Veteran Men -90kg

Kiya Wisniowksi will compete at the BC Winter Games at the end of February, while all three Wisniowski’s and other club members compete at Edmonton International and Pacific International in Richmond during March.

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The City of Prince George is launching a new survey to learn more about the demand for public washrooms downtown.

In September, City Council directed staff to seek feedback from residents to inform future decisions about public washroom access.

During that meeting, Council was presented with some current options, cost estimates, and potential approaches to improve access.

Some of these suggestions included:

• A staffed washroom at Canada Games Plaza
• A durable, single-occupancy, standalone structure such as a Portland Loo
• Washroom access delivered through a partnership with a downtown service provider
• Integrating a year-round public washroom into an existing civic facility

Residents are being asked to provide feedback on proposed suggestion, identify priority areas for downtown public washrooms, and share views on funding and cost considerations.

Council will consider the feedback in the spring.

The survey is available on the City website, and will be available until March 2.

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Starting today (February 9) anglers in the Cariboo and the Province can register for a free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) in the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system (WILD) to prepare for the 2026-27 fishing season.

A FWID is required to buy a fishing license in the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system.

Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Randene Neill said starting this Spring, April first, freshwater fishers will be able to buy their fishing licenses online and that it’s been something that hunter’s have been using.

It will serve as proof of authorization for all basic angling, classified waters and white sturgeon.

“It basically gives people who hunt and fish the ability to hold just one E license for both sports and cuts down on the duplication of things.”

The Province said anglers must still carry a copy of their license, paper or digital, as proof of authorization for all Conservation Surcharge Stamps.

When a Conservation Surcharge Stamp and retention record is required, anglers must carry paper copy of their license in order to record their catch details.

Minister Neill noted there are many advantages to this system.

“You’ll be able to keep your ID number. You can also get your license online which makes it easier for some people but if you prefer to get one in person you can still go to any Service BC or Front Counter BC or other vendors that sell fishing licenses as well.”

Neill noted that if you are already a current hunter and already have an ID number you can keep that same ID number for angling.

Minister Neill noted that this is something that the hunting and angling communities have been asking for for a long time and that a lot of other Provinces do this already.

Because of this transition, the Province said there will be no changes to the fishing license fees.

“The fee for the 2025-26 year for residents is $41 for the season. You can get a one day fishing license from between 11 or 23 dollars and then there are discounts for seniors as well and it’s a little bit higher for non-residents,” Neill said.

Once you’ve obtained your Free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) number, Neill added you get to keep that similar to a drivers license, you don’t have to redo it every single year.

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The Smithers Steelheads and Hazelton Wolverines are up 1-0 in their best-of-3 first round series in the Central Interior Hockey League playoffs.

On Saturday, the Steelheads beat the Williams Lake Stampeders 5-4 on home ice with Jonathan Creswell getting a hat trick for the team.

The Wolverines went on the road and blasted the Prince Rupert Rampage 10-2 behind a hat trick from Ethan Browne.

Smithers will visit Williams Lake in game two on Saturday with a 3rd and deciding game to go on Sunday, also in Williams Lake.

Hazelton will host Prince Rupert the same days with the Sunday if necessary.

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Carolina Hiller-Donnelly’s first race at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy didn’t result in a medal.

The PG Blizzard alum finished 26th out of 30 competitors in the 1000m women’s speed skating event this morning (Monday).

Hiller-Donnelly finished with a time of 1:17.156 roughly five seconds behind the leader.

Beatrice Lamarche was the top Canadian who placed fifth.

It was a historic day for the Netherlands who placed first and second leaving their competition in the dust.

Jutta Leerdam claimed the gold medal with an Olympic record time of 1:12.31 finishing a quarter of a second ahead of her fellow countrymen Femke Kok who took silver with a time of 1:12.59.

Japan’s Miho Takagi earned the bronze medal.

Hiller-Donnelly’s next race is February 15th in the 500m event set for 8am Pacific Time.

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A grey late-model Hyundai Santa Fe is the link to a gas theft in Castlegar.

RCMP have released a photo of the vehicle with its hatch open, taken at about 5 a.m. on Jan. 15.

Police say the thief drilled the tank of a parked pick-up truck on the 4600 block of Minto Road and made off with the stolen gas.

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A town hall meeting planned by OneBC leader Dallas Brodie will no longer take place at the Creston and District Community Complex after the Regional District of Central Kootenay cancelled the booking, despite initially approving it.

The event had been scheduled for Feb. 12 at the publicly-funded recreation complex. 

Brodie said she chose Creston as a stop on her party’s broader provincial tour aimed at connecting with residents in rural and smaller communities.

“Creston is very important, it’s located in southeastern British Columbia. I actually own property there. I love Creston,” she said, adding that many rural communities feel underserved and underseen by provincial politics.

“There’s a big hunger out there for people to be heard because some of these areas of B.C. get underserved since they’re far away from the main cities. It’s really important to speak to the people who are actually the backbone of B.C.,” she said.

RDCK explains cancellation

Brodie had initially rented space at the Creston Community Complex through the RDCK. An internal RDCK briefing note obtained by Vista Radio said the booking request from OneBC was accepted through standard procedures.

A rental agreement was signed and fees were paid.

The note emphasized the district’s neutrality, stating it “does not endorse, support, or promote the views of facility users, and a room rental does not imply agreement, partnership, or endorsement,” and “does not approve or deny bookings based on political views or affiliation.”

However, shortly after the booking was secured, OneBC was informed that the RDCK was cancelling the reservation.

In a letter dated Feb. 2, chief administrative officer Stuart Horn notified the party the district was exercising its discretion under the rental agreement to terminate the booking. Any fees paid were refunded. 

“The Regional District of Central Kootenay hereby notifies you that it has cancelled the Rental Agreement in relation to the proposed Feb. 12, 2026, booking of the Creston Room at the Creston and District Recreation Complex. It is exercising its unfettered discretion to cancel under Section 2 of the agreement,” Horn wrote.

In a separate statement to Vista Radio, the RDCK said the decision was made with “the wellbeing of our community in mind,” adding that allowing the event to proceed “would not have aligned with our commitment to providing a safe and respectful space for community members.”

“After considering the potential impacts, allowing this event to proceed in an RDCK facility would not have aligned with our commitment to providing a safe and respectful space for community members,” the statement said.

“The RDCK remains a community-driven organization and continues to provide equitable access to publicly funded facilities for a wide range of groups and individuals.”

Brodie responds and community reacts

Brodie said she was not surprised by the cancellation, describing it as part of a broader pattern her party has encountered provincewide.

“This has been happening a lot wherever we hold events,” she said.

“It’s outrageous to me that this is happening. We are supposed to be a free and democratic society where all voices should have the right to be heard.”

She also raised concerns about public buildings denying access to political meetings.

“This is a public building, and it should be open to any groups who want to meet. It is outrageous that a publicly funded government building is picking and choosing who can meet in that building,” she said.

The cancellation has also sparked a strong reaction in the Creston Valley, with supporters accusing the regional district of political interference and censorship.

Dirk Kunze, a Wynndel resident, said the reversal raises questions about whether political parties can access publicly funded community spaces.

“They sent out a public briefing notice that said all the right things. They said we’re neutral. We don’t ban events, and then an hour later they cancelled it. They contravened their own policy,” Kunze said.

But Brodie’s presence in the valley has also prompted criticism from Indigenous leaders.

Members of the Yaqan Nukiy have publicly opposed her visit, citing concerns about her past statements on reconciliation.

In a social media post, Inismi Luke, a councillor for the Lower Kootenay Band, described Brodie as divisive and called for a peaceful counter-protest.

“I can’t believe I’m posting this and someone from this community and valley is aligned with a person like this,” Luke wrote. “This person, who thrives on fear and misinformation, she is here to stir the pot, and divide.”  

In response, Brodie said her comments have focused on public claims surrounding unmarked graves at former residential school sites, arguing such claims should be supported by evidence.

She denied dismissing the existence of residential schools or the harms associated with them.

“This is not to say that there weren’t residential schools or that there weren’t things that happened there that were sad and unfortunate and probably included some abuse,” Brodie said.

“Really, this is about the 215 [unmarked graves in Kamloops] and there needs to be a reckoning on this portion of this file so that Canadians can really understand the truth, because without truth, any policies that are built on the basis of that story are weak.”

When asked about concerns her visit could be seen as divisive, Brodie said disagreement is essential to politics.

“By nature, politics has divisions in it. That’s what politics is,” she said.

“We have discussions. We get together. We talk. And if people can’t talk, they get angry. If you think that people having a different opinion from you is divisive, then I don’t know what to say to you.”

Despite the cancellation, organizers said Brodie still plans to be in the Creston area on Feb. 12. A new venue has yet to be announced.

Brodie said those who have signed up to attend will get an email prior to the event with information on the location.

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After 23 years, Prince George Animal Rescue Society is permanently closing.

The owners are retiring from rescue, according to a recent Facebook post.

The group notes since 2020, insurance for the rescue was becoming more expensive.

In addition, the animal rescue gave thanks to vets, techs and admins at College Heights Vet Clinic.

Two dogs and two horses remain in their care to find homes and still have several adoption contracts to fulfill.

The PG rescue’s website and social media accounts will still be active until those commitments are complete.

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A local businessman and broadcaster is running for Grand Forks City Council.

Shaun Aquiline is the co-owner of the Grand Forks Historic GEM Theatre with his wife, Kirstin, and a morning announcer on 102.3 Juice FM.

Aquiline, who announced his intentions last week, has worked in small cities and towns for over a decade and has observed political dealings from the outside.

Now he wants to help Grand Forks grow through economic development and tourism.

“I want to see this area have a chance to succeed so we can pass the keys to Gen Alpha and Gen Beta when they grow up,” Aquiline said.

He says it may involve looking back at the city’s official community plan from 2011.

“Branching off and having a tourism arm and doing things that are progressive and inviting to others to come and also navigating that while we understand small towns don’t want to bite off more than they can chew,” he said.

Aquiline understands people are hesitant to change but notes anything would not happen overnight – it would be a “slow burn” – since the city is not a resort town getting external funding.

“We do not have those external dollars that really boost resort towns so we have to be fast and quick and think on our feet. We have to be grassroots. We have to be creative and innovative and by that, that means that those progressive movements are very slow, they’re easy to digest,” he said.

Aquiline says strategies to get people off Highway 3 to visit Grand Forks could trickle down to seeing a fraction of those visitors decide to buy a home.

He says the city needs to “think outside the box, what are things that we can do that make this place exactly what it is, without upsetting the apple cart?”

Aquiline, 42, has been married to Kirstin for almost ten years. They have two sons – 9-year-old Jack and 6-year-old Carter.

Municipal election day is Oct. 17, 2026.

For transparency, listeners should know that Shaun Aquiline, a candidate in this election, is a host on this station.

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The Trail Skills Centre announced last week that executive director Morag Carter will be leaving the organization at the end of March after eight years, due to reduced and eliminated government funding. 

I imagine you were not looking to leave and the board didn’t want you to go. It’s just the circumstances of funding.

Yes. Obviously, I’d hoped to stay a little bit longer. It’s definitely not how I wanted to end my career at the Skills Centre or my time in the Kootenays. But yes, it is all about funding. This is one of the things that has happened over the last few years. It’s been the collision of a series of unfortunate events impacting not just the Skills Centre, but businesses and organizations across the country and throughout the province.

What do you think about the future of the organization? You are at the whim of provincial or federal policy and what money that provides. 

Over the years, the Skills Centre has been able to reinvent ourselves several times. Things like funding crises happen all too frequently in the not-for-profit sector. One of both the realities and the fragilities of the sector is that we are subject to the perceived directions that funders want to drive things in. But we’re also subject to the realities funders face.

In this particular case, while we have over the years diversified our funding significantly and have many more funders than we did less than 10 years ago, the nature of the work that we do, which is to provide labour market supports both to community members and to businesses in the area, means that the money we need to operate flows through from federal transfers through the labour market agreement and then to the province and then down to us.

There have been some very significant changes over the last couple of years. The federal government reduced the labour market transfers to all of the provinces, and BC took a fairly significant hit. After that, less money flows down into communities to help people. So ultimately, these decisions, while they may be understandable because of the pressures that national and provincial governments are under, impact the community.

That’s the sad thing about this. Whether I stay at the Skills Centre, it’s not a bigger deal than how many people in community aren’t going to be helped as a result of the reduction in funding available not just for the Skills Centre, but for a lot of other organizations in the area and throughout the province. 

What are you most proud of during your time at the Skills Centre? 

I am so proud of the staff. They are absolutely incredible. They have done amazing work to serve the people in Trail and throughout the West Kootenay and actually over into the Central and East Kootenay as well. I’m so proud of the work they have done and I’m so proud of the community members that they have helped. I’m proud of the community members who have then gone on to build really wonderful careers for themselves.

The Skills Centre has made a fairly big difference in in Trail. We bought a building a few years ago and did a very significant environmental renovation to bring it right up to code. It served as a great talking point for how buildings can be reimagined for a longer future. Many not-for-profits survive on shoestrings and hopes and prayers. But what we’ve done with the building is to create a space where nonprofits can actually thrive. It has state-of-the-art technology. And that kind of change that we have helped catalyze not only for ourselves, but for other organizations and Trail, is something I’m very proud of. 

What’s next for you? 

My husband actually lives on the mid-coast, in a small island community. We’ve been doing the long-distance commute for the last couple of years. So I’m going to be going back to be reunited with him, which is going to be good for my own physical and mental health. I’m in the retirement zone, but I don’t feel anywhere close to being done. I’ve got hopes to continue doing work to support the not-for-profit community. That has been my passion for all of my career. 

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It was a familiar first finisher on the solo women’s side of the 39th annual Prince George Iceman.

For the second straight year, Juliette Davies was the first solo female racer out of the pool.

“It feels really good, I didn’t feel quite as prepared fitness-wise this year, so I was just committed to going out and having fun,” she said following her swim.

This year’s race was different than usual. The five kilometre skate portion of the race was cancelled due to unseasonably warm temperatures in Prince George last week.

“I sort of was mentally prepared to have that break and when I found out the skate was cancelled, that was a bit disappointing, and it was just about reshaping what I was thinking in terms of my approach to the race,” Davies said.

The warm temperatures also brought tough conditions for the ski. The trails at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club were almost ice themselves, but were also soft in some areas.

“It was a little rough, I fell twice on the first lap,” Davies said.

“It was entirely on me, I just caught edges.”

Another deviation from the norm saw the 800 metre swimming portion of the event moved to the Canfor Leisure Pool because of ongoing renovations to the Aquatic Centre.

The lane pool in the Canfor Leisure Pool is just 25 metres, as opposed to the 50 metre pool at the Aquatic Centre.

“There was a lot more people, especially at the turnarounds, at the end of the lane you didn’t have nearly as much time to pass, so it was a little bit more chaotic,” Davies added.

“I wasn’t expecting this one to be so warm, that was a shock when I jumped in.”

Racers in the pool had to complete laps in one pool, get out and move to another pool to do two more laps, repeating this process multiple times.

On the men’s side there was another repeat winner, but not as recent as a year ago.

Chris Pendray won the event in 2018, but hasn’t run the event solo since.

“It was way warmer, just generally better conditions, conditions were fast,” he said following the race.

“Conditions were really fast on the ski, and then in the running it wasn’t slippery at all.”

In addition to changes in the course, a large gaggle of runners faced an unexpected roadblock: a train that crossed the path of the race.

Full results will be posted on the Iceman website.

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