Mayor Shari Green is passing the torch to the younger generation.
With the support of Canada Winter Games officials, Green has chosen Raia Patrick-Prince, 10, to take her place as a Games torch bearer.
Patrick-Prince first came to public attention when the Nak'azdli First Nation child donated half her monthly allowance and two hours every Sunday, rain or shine, to the Eco Guardians Club she founded. Under that banner, she, her mom, and other supporters from the VLA (generally the area south of 20th Avenue and north of Ford Street) would walk the streets and trails of that neighbourhood, cleaning litter as they went along.
"I have been fortunate to be part of several wonderful opportunities connected to the Canada Winter Games," Green said. "This was something I knew someone else could benefit from. I couldn't think of anyone more deserving than Raia, after all she's done for her community at such a young age."
Torchbearers will carry the Roly McLenahan Canada Games Torch as part of the 2015 Canada Winter Games Torch Relay throughout northern B.C. starting in Prince George on Nov. 4, which is the 100-day-out marker for the beginning of the Games.
A complete list of the torchbearers is at www.canadagames2015.ca/torchbearers.
Patrick-Prince agreed to carry the flame with a big grin and a bashful hug of mom Amanda Prince.
Both hope to grow Eco Guardians by teaching recycling and environmental stewardship lessons to the kids who join.
"We want them to have those lessons, we want them to participate in keeping their neighbourhood clean, and we want it to be free," said Amanda Prince.
Anyone interested in helping the group is encouraged to join the Prince George VLA Enhancement Association group on Facebook. The next activity is a community party on Halloween at the group's green space at 2301 Oak Street.
Patrick-Prince was especially pleased to find out that not only does she get to carry the flame, but her birthday is Feb. 13, coinciding with the Opening Ceremonies.
