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Articles by Evan Saugstad
(Opinion) FSJ Eats with Ed
Ribfest took place from July 11th to 13th in Fort St. John at Centennial Park, offering ribs, sausages, beef brisket and more. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Apart from Canada Day and New Year's Eve fireworks, is there a bigger local event in Fort St. John than Ribfest? There has been a swelling of support for the - quite literal - meat market since first coming to Fort St. John in 2020, organized by the Rotary Club of Fort St. John.
(Opinion) FSJ Eats with Ed samples international dishes without having to charter jet at food festival
FSJ Eats with Ed sampled dishes from Jamaica, Jordan and Ukraine at the Taste of Fort St. John International Food Festival 2025. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - For less than the cost of a plane ticket, Fort St. John residents could take a trip around the world - at least cuisine-wise. Taking place at the Fort St. John Curling Club, the Taste of Fort St. John International Food Festival returned in 2025 on June 28th.
(Opinion) FSJ Eats with Ed: Cultural celebrations offer eclectic and unique choices
International-centric events take centre stage in Fort St. John, with Igbo Day and Philippines Independence Day giving Ed Hitchins an opportunity to rate new dishes on his Ed-o-metre. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - With the summer sun in full swing, celebrations showcasing cultures from each nook and cranny around the globe are abundant throughout Fort St. John and the area.
MLA Jordan Kealy calls for residents' healthcare stories as part of reform efforts
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - The MLA for Peace River North is collecting input from residents regarding their experiences with the healthcare system. Jordan Kealy put out a call for residents on his social media, urging them to email his office and explain their personal experiences with healthcare in the area. "If you have personally dealt with the healthcare system as a patient, or are employed by Northern Health, I want to hear from you," Kealy said.
Dawson Creek emergency room closed for 6.5 hours due to 'staffing challenges'
The emergency department at Dawson Creek and District Hospital has been closed until 10 p.m. on May 12th. DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - Emergency healthcare is temporarily unavailable at the Dawson Creek hospital. In a May 12th Facebook post, Northern Health said the emergency department services at Dawson Creek and District Hospital have been closed for this afternoon.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: Your health, my health; your belief, my belief?
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad explores how conspiracy theories about healthcare proliferate on social media. Are health studies and their science the 'real deal' or is it all a cover-up and conspiracy by 'big pharma' and 'big industry' in their quest for profits? Who do you believe, or is it better framed, how should we believe? I do a lot of reading.
B.C. to hold an independent commission into festival attack, considers public inquiry
VICTORIA - British Columbia Premier David Eby says his government will launch an independent commission into the Vancouver festival attack that killed 11 people and a public inquiry if the criminal case doesn't provide answers the public is looking for. Eby says the commission will have a "quick turn around" to get full answers for organizers of events and festivals in the province by June. He says he wants the public to be able to "gather and celebrate" over the summer without feeling unsafe.
Elections Canada resumes vote counting with majority still in question
The shape of the next Liberal government is becoming clearer as ballot counting continues after a historic election day in Canada. OTTAWA - The shape of the next Liberal government is becoming clearer as ballot counting continues after a historic election day in Canada. Canadians still won't know until later Tuesday whether Mark Carney's Liberals have won a majority or minority mandate from voters.
Teacher, Realtor, and five-year-old girl were among Vancouver festival victims
VANCOUVER - Tributes and condolences are coming in for the 11 people killed in a vehicle ramming at a Vancouver festival on Saturday. Here is what we know about some of the confirmed victims so far: KIRA SALIM Salim was a teacher-counsellor at Fraser River Middle School and New Westminster Secondary School. A statement from the superintendent of the school district says Salim's wisdom and care for students had a powerful impact.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: We must support a vibrant forestry industry in B.C.
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad urges the people of B.C. to only support a government which values the province's forestry and lumber industries. Anyone remember when B.C. lumber was not subject to U.S. tariffs?
(Opinion) Bear Flat Dispatch: 'Disposable' Site C work camp highlights need to avoid megaprojects
Regular contributor Ken Boon with his reaction to the conversation around disposing of the Site C dam work camp. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Recently it came to light that after less than 10 years, the big expensive work camp at Site C may be destined for a landfill. This has been a shock to everyone, including the PRRD, who did not see this coming until a contractor asked about space in the regional landfill. It does raise a lot of questions.
Maintenance scheduled for Taylor Bridge for over two weeks in May
TAYLOR, B.C. - Spring time maintenance will be conducted for just over two weeks on the Taylor Bridge starting early in May. This will be the fifth time this year maintenance will be performed on the bridge. According to website, work will begin on May 5th in a one-kilometre area between Big Bam Road and McMahon Drive on the bridge.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: Theft, thieves and thievery
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad asks if enough is being done to tackle the crime of theft in Canada? Theft, a scourge the world could do without. Can you imagine a world where nothing is ever taken without permission? A world where you would not need to own locks, purchase theft insurance or hide your property away in fear someone else will use their five-finger discount and take it for themselves? I grew up in a world where most of this was true.
FSJ Eats with Ed: Totem Mall's Prinkle fried chicken review
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - For most North American taste buds, fried chicken's popularity is reserved to giving an honorary Kentucky colonel named Harland Sanders credit for its widespread availability. But, one might not be aware of the the dish offered in South Korea: some reports state a variation of a recipe existed since the 15th century during the Goryeo dynasty.
All-candidates forum set for Fort St. John
The Fort St. John all-candidates forum has been scheduled for April 15th at the Lido Theatre FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - As the federal election grows ever closer, an all-candidates forum in Fort St. John has been confirmed for the Prince George, Peace River and Northern Rockies riding. On April 15th, the Lido Theatre is hosting an all-candidates forum in Fort St. John for candidates for the local MP seat.
Liberal hopeful joins Peace River riding candidates confirmed for federal election 2025
Candidates from all five major political parties have now been confirmed for the Prince George, Peace River and Northern Rockies riding in the 2025 federal election. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Candidates from all five major political parties have now been confirmed for the northeast B.C. riding.
Party Platforms: Canadian federal parties on housing in the election
The Canadian federal parties - Liberal, Conservative, NDP, Green and PPC - and their platforms on housing ahead of the 2025 Canadian federal election on April 28th. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - With the 2025 Canadian federal election less than four weeks away, political parties are releasing their political platforms. These platforms cover topics such as housing, energy, healthcare, climate action and economics.
Energeticcity.ca awarded grant for expanded 2025 federal election coverage
Learn more about our 2025 Canadian Federal Election coverage for the Prince George - Peace River - Northern Rockies riding. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Energeticcity.ca has been awarded a grant to expand and upgrade our federal election coverage this April. The 2025 Canadian Federal Election was called on March 23rd with final voting day happening on April 28th. As a local news organization located in Fort St John, we will be covering the Prince George - Peace River - Northern Rockies riding.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: Four more years of the same old, or something new?
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad on the choice Canadian's have in the polling booth on April 28th. Will Canada go to bed happy and smelling the roses, or will we be sad and like where I grew up in the Bella Coola valley, smelling that distinctive odour of full-bloom skunk cabbage* wafting through the bedroom window at this time of year?
(Opinion) Priscilla Phillips: Why are politicians afraid of questions? We must ensure our voices are heard
Peace River consituent Priscilla Phillips is voicing her concerns about holding politicians to account in the run up to the 2025 federal election. The Conservative Party of Canada's communication strategy often seems insular, leaving some constituents, like myself, with no voice. Despite his overwhelming support of the ' Freedom Convoy', Bob Zimmer MP blocked my access to his official Facebook page several weeks ago. Is there a law that prohibits it? No. I checked.
Federal election begins, Canadians to go to polls on April 28
Canada's 45th general election got underway Sunday. Canada's 45th general election got underway Sunday, with the leaders vying to become Canada's next prime minister each positioning themselves as best to strengthen Canada's economy and stand up to U.S. President Donald Trump. Liberal Leader Mark Carney triggered the campaign midday by visiting Gov. Gen. Mary Simon and asking her to dissolve Parliament.
Farmers' institute seeks $1m grant to support grain elevator upgrade
The PRRD is supporting North Pine Farmers Institute in applying for grants to expand the last remaining grain elevator in Fort St. John. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - The PRRD is supporting a local farmers' institute in applying for grants to expand the last remaining grain elevator in Fort St. John. The Peace River Regional District board of directors has voted to write a letter of support to the North Pine Farmers Institute, which is seeking funding for upgrades to a grain elevator.
Spring Fair returns to Fort St. John in May
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - A beloved springtime tradition will return to Fort St. John this coming May. West Coast Amusements will present the 2025 Spring Fair from May 22nd to May 24th at the plot of land across from Totem Mall, as has been the case in previous years. The 2025 fair will mark the fourth time the event has taken place since 2019. West Coast Amusements' website says dates and times may vary depending on guest attendance and weather, and closing hours are approximate.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: A long life, a healthy life or a long, healthy life? A review of Attia's Outlive
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad asks how it is best to stay healthy throughout life after reading Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Dr Peter Attia with Bill Gifford. There is a "new" oldest person in the world, current to March 2025. A Brazilian nun who is 116 years old relaced a Japanese lady who died December 24th, 2024, also at the age of 116. The oldest person ever recorded was a French lady who lived to 122 years.
(Opinion) Evan Saugstad: My guide to Trump's trade war and tariffs
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad's guide aims to simplify U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war with countries around the world. As I write this, I wonder what Donald will change, add, subtract or expand on in terms of his trade war. Seems something new or different happens every day, making it hard to write anything that is up to date. On March 13 th, Canada sent a delegation to Washington DC to talk to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick about tariffs and trade.
(Opinion) Bear Flat Dispatch: Thoughts on politics drama, wildlife confusion and losing at cribbage
Regular contributor Ken Boon on various issues, such as Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy's defection from the BC Conservatives and wildlife patterns since the construction of the Site C dam. There has been a firehose stream of news lately, and most of it is bad. I have refrained from writing lately for the sake of my sanity, but alas, one must carry on, so here goes on a hodgepodge of issues: Arlene has been on a disgusting winning streak with our crib games lately.
Evan Saugstad: Thank you Jordan for defection from Conservatives
Being a politician is a tough job. Just ask our Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy. Elected as a B.C. Conservative on October 19, 2024, and after spending less than five months as a B.C. Conservative MLA, with 10 days experience in the Legislative Assembly of B.C., he has had enough and quit the B.C. Conservatives party. Remember his year-end interview on Dec 30th on this website? " Kealy says B.C. Conservatives party leader John Rustad played an essential role in him becoming MLA.
B.C. Conservative attacks 'super angry' Indigenous colleague over residential schools
VICTORIA - British Columbia's Opposition attorney general critic has railed against members of her own party in a row over residential schools, including a "super angry" Indigenous colleague she says "joined the NDP" to call her out. Dallas Brodie's apparent reference to B.C. Conservative house leader A'aliya Warbus comes after Brodie said in a social media post last month that "zero" child burials had been confirmed at the Kamloops Indian Residential School.
PRRD launches climate resiliency plan survey as natural hazards become 'more frequent and intense'
DAWSON CREEK, B.C. - The Peace region is seeking the public's help in creating a "climate-related hazards" plan. According to a Peace River Regional District (PRRD) media release, communities in the Peace region are experiencing significant impacts from natural hazard events including wildfires, flooding, extreme heat, drought and storms. "Climate change is making these events more frequent and intense," says the release.
Regional district considers Canada-first buying policy
The Peace River Regional District approves research into adjusting its procurement policy to be more Canada-first. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - The regional district is considering a Canada-first buying policy as the U.S. tariff war steps up a notch. During the March 6th regional board meeting, the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) board of directors unanimously approved a review of the existing procurement policy to alter it to a Canada-first/buy tendering policy.
Shots over the bow: Why provinces are using liquor leverage in trade war with U.S.
VANCOUVER - The dozens of Kentucky bourbons listed on the BC Liquor Stores website range from a two-ounce bottle of Maker's Mark, priced at $5.29, to a $2,400 bottle of Woodford Reserve, aged in cognac barrels and presented in a crystal decanter. What they all have in common is the "currently unavailable" designation, having been yanked from sale by British Columbia's government in retaliation for U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian imports.
Another earthquake felt on B.C.'s south coast, third in two weeks
VICTORIA - Another earthquake has shaken Victoria, becoming at least the third felt in British Columbia's capital in less than two weeks. Earthquakes Canada says the magnitude 3.9 earthquake occurred about 58 kilometres south of Victoria, at 4:18 p.m. on Wednesday. It says the quake was 42 kilometres deep and was centred near the end of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state. The agency says the tremor was "lightly felt" in Victoria and there are no reports of damage.
Evan Saugstad: Oh Canada! A point of view from a small town guy living in rural Canada (part 6)
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad, in the final edition of his series about the U.S. tariffs saga, asks what President Donald Trump's impact on Canada will be? Last article I outlined some of Donald's untruths as reported in news organizations from a variety of sources. Not very flattering for someone who demands that he be treated as a pseudo-King. Now in his second month in office, what do you think of Donald and his relationship with Canada so far? Like him or hate him?
Legislative Assembly of B.C considers anti 'double dipping' bill
B.C. legislative assembly has considered a bill disqualifying MLAs from holding multiple elected offices to eliminate "double dipping." FORT ST.
First 100 Women Who Care event of 2025 coming to the Lido
A bi-annual fundraising event from the 100 Women who Care non-profit is returning to the Lido this March for its first event of 2025. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - The next installment of a bi-annual non-profit fundraiser is coming to Fort St. John next week. The first 100 Women Who Care event of 2025 is coming up on March 11th at the Lido Theatre in Fort St. John.
Kids display creative talent with unique cardboard arcade games
Students at Robert Ogilvie Elementary School got to create and build unique games made out of cardboard on March 5th. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Students at Robert Ogilvie Elementary School displayed their creative talents with a cardboard games fair. On March 5th, students came to the school's gym from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to enjoy the games they had built from cardboard. According to the school's principal, Christine Todd, the activity is an opportunity for students in grades four to six to be creative.
Water service work continues in Taylor
Repairs to a water main in Taylor around Spruce Street North will shut off the service for the second day in a row on March 5th. TAYLOR, B.C. - Some residents in Taylor can expect to experience another temporary water shut-off this afternoon. Starting at 1 p.m. on March 5th, repairs will begin on a water service leak on Spruce Street North from 98th Avenue to Birch Avenue East.
Evan Saugstad: Oh Canada! A point of view from a small town guy living in rural Canada (part 5 as the Canadian takeover saga continues)
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad brings together various sources to fact-check U.S. President Donald Trump. 43 days and counting. Is he doing a good job for America? The rest of the world? Is he only doing what he said he would do, only doing what the people elected him to do and in that, is representing the will of the people? Is he believable, or not? As each day passes, it is becoming harder and harder to find anyone who doesn't have an opinion between a hard dislike or outright love.
NRRM council discusses updating greenhouse gas project
The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM) considered updating its climate-energy policies at its February 24th committee of the whole meeting. FORT NELSON, B.C. - The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM) board considered updating and adding to its climate-energy policies at its recent meeting. The Northern Rockies Climate and Energy Action Plan was presented to the NRRM board during its February 24th committee of the whole meeting.
Workers at third Horizon North lodge vote for strike action
Hospitality workers at CPC Montney Lodge north of Fort St. John voted unanimously in favor of strike action, joining two other Horizon North lodges. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Hospitality workers at CPC Montney Lodge north of Fort St. John voted unanimously in favor of strike action, joining two other Horizon North lodges.
Five emergency room closures in northeast B.C. last month
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Northeast B.C. residents were left without access to their community's emergency department for 51 hours in February due to staffing challenges at Northern Health-operated facilities. The Chetwynd General Hospital emergency department closed two times last month for a total of 31 hours. The closures were caused by 'staffing challenges,' according to Northern Health, and had the emergency department closed from 2 p.m. February 25th to 8 a.m. February 26th.
'Collaboration and increased communication': Northern Health executive talks ER closures in the northeast
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - As emergency room closures continue to plague northeast B.C., a Northern Health executive has said collaboration and increased communication are priorities for improving care. Emergency room closures throughout northeast B.C. continue to be implemented due to nurse and doctor shortages at five hospitals. So far in 2025, Northern Health has reported over 131 hours of closures in two months. In January, the Dawson Creek and District Hospital and Chetwynd General Hospital .
Evan Saugstad: Oh Canada! A point of view from a small town guy living in rural Canada (part 4 as the Canadian takeover saga continues)
Regular contributor Evan Saugstad on how he believes Canada should react to the threats of U.S. tariffs from Donald Trump. Although it was yet to be determined when this was written what or if Donald's threat of imposing punishing tariffs on all goods and services exported into the U.S. will come to pass, Canada will still need to be prepared and respond if necessary. Canada should and must take the lead, but each province and territory has a large part to play.
Regional board expands access to health-related service grants
The PRRD has approved changes to the Health Related Services Grant-in-Aid Policy to limit the amount of funds available but expand eligibility to not-for-profit cooperatives. FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - More health organizations will be able to apply for funding because the regional district is set to tweak its grants policy - although the maximum allocation is shrinking.
Evan Saugstad: Oh, Canada! A point of view from a small town guy living in rural Canada (part 3 as the Canadian takeover saga continues)
Local man Evan Saugstad with his opinion on how Canada should respond to the threat of U.S. tariffs. While I write part 3, the Canadian government's response to Donald's tariff and annexation threats has been one of relative silence as we wait to see which version(s) the U.S. government will bring against Canada. While Canada has been clearly told that we must take Donald at face value, we are still not sure from which mouth of Donald's many faces will come his official version.
Oh, Canada: A point of view from a small town guy in rural Canada (part 2 as the Canadian takeover saga continues)
Evan Saugstad writes as the tariffs threats saga with the U.S. and President Donald Trump continues. In Part 1 (Feb 14 th), I wrote about some of what is driving the U.S. to impose tariffs against everything Canadian. As the saga continues, President Donald announced his next step to counteract what he sees as unfair trade practices levied against the U.S. His next announcement was about matching every other country's tariffs on U.S. products with a similar one of their own.
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