A popular staple in Prince George’s Hart community has gone up in flames.
The Northwood Motor Inn, which included Nelly’s Pub was the scene of a structure fire early this morning (Wednesday).
Word of the blaze spread like wildfire on social media as many regular patrons and those tied to the local music scene are gutted by the news.
Aaron, who is a local musician, played at the pub many times over years, expressed gratitude to the place that helped give him his start.
“Nelly’s was the local cornerstone to just about every musician in town. They gave me my start and always continued their support no matter what.”
“I am absolutely gutted right now. It was place where everyone knew your name just like Cheers.”
“If you had an idea musically, they would always be on board to help. Any local musician in town wanted a chance, they would give anyone a chance to show case their music.”
The Chris Goodwin Band echoed those exact sentiments stating they experienced a similar breakthrough while playing at the cozy bar.
“I can honestly say I don’t know where we would be at without Nelly’s Pub, which is a funny thing to say because it is a neighbourhood pub but it’s an institution.”
“I was talking to one of my former bandmates, and he has played up there with several bands since the 1990’s. It is not just a staple of Prince George but also Northern BC. Really, I can’t think of another place where so many musicians have come through town and do their thing on stage.”
Aside from the festive atmosphere aided by the music and good people, the bar was also known for its food including their signature pizza.
Art, who frequented the pub, says another item off the food menu tickled his fancy.
“They had one of the best beef dips in town. People that worked in there were friendly and looked after your needs. They were just great people.”
Barb and her colleagues also stopped in after meetings and always applauded the level of service they were treated to every time they walked in.
“The cook used to give us a big hug every time and we were called there Tuesday ladies. He said we got extra service from them even when it was packed, they saved us a table so that our regular table was open for us.”
“They were a special bunch; we are going to miss them. None of us drank, most of us were driving as it was only the four of us in our group. They knew exactly what we wanted and my daughter she always had their pizza – as soon she walked in they knew she was a regular and had it ready.”
“We never went anywhere else but there.”
PG Fire Chief Bryan Burleigh confirmed to city officials and MyPGNow.com three halls are engaging in the fire at this time.
He will be holding a media availability at Nelly’s at noon today (Wednesday).
In addition, Cpl. Jennifer Cooper with the Prince George RCMP noted the blaze is not suspicious in nature.
This is the third major fire in the city within the last 24 hours. Fire crews also extinguished a multi-unit residential structure fire on Domano Boulevard in College Heights resulting in $300,000 damage.
In addition, fire personnel also attended a residential blaze on the 4900 block of Sooke Road, that resulted in $250,000 in damage.
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