It would be a challenge to find people more enthusiastic about Prince George than city councillors Murry Krause and Lyn Hall, both of whom have been chosen to be on a special committee charged with organizing events to celebrate Prince George's 100th birthday in 2015.
"I love this committee and that's why we want to celebrate this major milestone for our community. The bottom line is to really engage with the community in the
planning and the implementation," said Krause.
The committee will include one member from each of the following: Lheidli T'enneh, Prince George 2015, EnhancePG, Prince George and District Community Arts Council, Prince George Chamber of Commerce, heritage commission, Prince George Community Foundation and Prince George District Labour Council.
"For me, it's about bringing in those folks that have lived here for 40, 50, 60 years - the pioneers that are still around and make them a part of the celebration and to connect to what is going on in the community today. I think the other tie is around the 2015 Canada Winter Games. I think it could be a huge celebration from start to finish, that's what I'm envisioning,"
said Hall.
There will be centennial events for the community as well events in town with a centennial twist.
Both councillors stress how much history Prince George has to offer and that it will definitely play a part in the celebrations.
"I think that the history sometimes gets lost. I would like us to bring it forward, for people like me who have only been here 25 years... It's important for people to understand the history of Prince George and that's what we hope to deliver," said Hall.
"We have so much to be proud of. But it would appear that sometimes we see ourselves as less-than. Part of this work is to instill in people to remember how far we've come. [This community] was hewn out of the bush," said Krause.
The origins of Prince George can be traced back to the North West Company fur trading post of Fort George, which was established in 1807 by Simon Fraser. It wasn't until March 6, 1915 that Prince George became incorporated.
"[The] Canada winter games are very important but I want to make sure that our centennial doesn't get lost in the mix. The Canada Winter Games will be one event, and the centennial will be a year-round
celebration," said Hall.
