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Quick Peak: City remembers Johnson; School district receives funds

City remembers Johnson Flags flew at half-mast at City of Powell River city hall on October 6 as a memorial for former Powell River firefighter and fire chief Torger Johnson.

City remembers Johnson

Flags flew at half-mast at City of Powell River city hall on October 6 as a memorial for former Powell River firefighter and fire chief Torger Johnson.

Johnson, who died September 30, served as a professional firefighter for 34 years between 1948 to 1982. He was regarded by his colleagues as “a working man’s boss,” and “as a good firefighter and good chief,” according to a city media release.

Current fire chief Terry Peters stated that he considered Johnson to be a trailblazer in the early development of Powell River Fire Rescue.

Johnson was a charter member of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1298 when the union local was certified in 1958. He received his first promotion in 1969 and served as fire chief from 1973 until his retirement.

 

School district receives funds

A trades apprenticeship dual-credit program offered by School District 47 has received $20,000 in funding from the Industry Training Authority Youth Work in Trades Program.

Students in grades 10, 11 and 12 are connected with local employers to gain practical experience, credit toward their high school diploma and work-based training for trades apprenticeships while earning a paycheque. The program prepares students for the workforce with hands-on learning, practical skill development and certification.

According to BC Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, the program is important to address increasing demand for skilled and educated tradespeople.