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Prince George, B.C. – Six residents from northern B.C. have been recognized for making a difference in their communities.

The event was entitled Unsung Heroes of Northern B.C. and they were honoured Saturday night with a night of food and music at the Coast Inn of the North.

There was a panel of nine judges: Bobby Deepak, city councillors Terri McConnachie and Garth Frizzel, Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson, Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen, Lisa Redpath, Charles Scott, Ken Solonas and Scott McWalter (PG Mayor Lyn Hall served as MC).

The judges chose from a list of 26 candidates.:

• Earnest Harding (Smithers): Harding is both a volunteer and board member of the Smithers and Area Recycling Society.
• Dr. Moustafa Mohamed (PG): President of the Prince George chapter of the BC Muslim Association. Volunteer efforts include helping Syrian refugees settle in northern, B.C.
• Ranjit Singh Rarru (PG): He started Guru Nanaks Free Food Langar to help provide free food to people in need.
• Laurie Hooker (PG): An avid volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul’s Society where she helps coordinate volunteers and meals.
• Jason Gillis (PG): Constable Gillis started a sweat lodge in his back yard to bring healing to those suffering with PTSD.
• Chris Mushumanshi (Vanderhoof): Serves as president of Nechako Valley Search and Rescue where he’s volunteered for nearly 20 years.

The six winners received a certificate of appreciation signed by the judges and a northern lights trophy.