Gloria Moffat chats with customers grabbing a bite to eat during The Northern's weekend celebrations

Prince George, BC – Serving hot dogs at a stand set up outside The Northern on Third Avenue on Saturday afternoon, Gloria Moffat paused for a moment to reflect on the significance of this weekend's celebrations marking 95 years for the family-owned business…

Her eyes instantly brimmed with tears, as she said, "It's pretty big."

The Northern has always been a family affair.  Started in 1919, by Alex Moffat and his partner, Frank Whitmore, a Moffat has been at the helm ever since.  Most recently, Kelly Green, became the 4th generation CEO of Northern Hardware & Furniture Co., following in the footsteps of her father, Ted, who lost his battle with cancer one year ago.

Saying that the tears were part-and-parcel of the occasion, they welled again as Gloria posed with her granddaughters, Addison and Sophie – two of Kelly's four children – before Saturday's cake cutting ceremony.

And then again, as she listened to daughter, Kelly, thank employees past and present for making The Northern what it is today – an inspiration to all.

"We couldn't do this without you," Green told many of the employees who gathered alongside customers. "Thank you to Prince George for being a big part of The Northern's success over the years.  We greatly appreciate and value all our customers and good friends we have come to know well and we look forward to celebrating our 100th Anniversary with all of you."

Prince George-Valemount MLA, Shirley Bond, commended The Northern on 95 years of 'excellence in customer service' in presenting a certificate of recognition.  The City's Heritage Commission also presented a plaque honouring the store with the Heritage Places Award 2014.

In congratulating Kelly Green on 'taking up the torch', Prince George Mayor, Shari Green, noted Addison and Sophie preparing to hand out cake as she said, "Clearly, the 5th generation is getting in on the training."

Photo below shows 'Champ' the horse, still offering kids a ride for a dime