Why do music fans around the world despise Nickelback so much? Using the same rationale as to why some people have such a strong aversion to Prince George, I'm guessing it's for reasons unknown. It's a shame our city can be considered the musical equivalent of Nickelback. Where's the respect?
It's no secret to anyone living in Prince George their city is subject to defamation and constant insinuations full of slander, widely considered to be just some frozen desolation up north. Tell somebody in the Lower Mainland you're from The Peeg and watch their immediate facial expression, a look of absolute terror, vividly illustrate what their preconceptions of the city truly are. You know deep down inside they're itching to ask, "Are you okay? How did you survive up there?"
I'm aware of the typical problems people have with Prince George: winters are long and punishing; the air quality can be suspect; pot holes notoriously dominate our roads; and, of course, we're the most dangerous city (allegedly) in the country. What I don't understand is how critics can be so unbelievably negative with their thoughts towards such a wonderful place. Hey, we're no Florence, Italy, by any stretch - but we're still one hell of a great city.
P.G., to me, is as desirable as a community can get. Here's why: the low cost of living and high-paying jobs; inexpensive housing and affordable mortgages, strong educational institutions and outstanding neighborhoods; limited homelessness and great public spaces; and hundreds of parks, lakes and mountains, along with two big beautiful rivers.
Most importantly, we have Mr. P.G. Cities and countries around the world enjoy historical landmarks, recognizable buildings and, of course, some awe-inspiring iconic structures with their own brand of personality: Rio de Janeiro's Statue of Christ the Redeemer; the Great Buddha in Kamakura, Japan; the Statue of Liberty in New York; and, of course, Stonehenge in Salisbury Plain, England.
And while all of these incredible landmarks would make an incredible addition to any world traveller's itinerary, none of them come close to matching the cultural intensity Mr. P.G. brings to the table.
All in all, I do agree that listening to Nickelback at a deafening volume and enjoying it can be sort of embarrassing. However, being proud to be from the City of Prince George is definitely not.
Andrew Scott
Prince George
