Volume 1 Issue 12 by The Rocky Mountain Goat News

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Your source for weekly news and views in the Robson Valley

Volume 1 Issue 12

Cedar mill gears up for full production Jobs for 30 people in McBride Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

The operation is plainly visible from McBride and Highway 16, and very soon full production will breathe some economic life back into the Valley’s forest industry. “Some guys, mainly millwrights, are working already,” says Dwayne Vause, who manages the Cedar mill. “We should run all winter.” Vause says production of cedar post and railing ceased on May 21 of this year and mulch baggers have worked on and off through the summer, although the mill was completely shut down in July. He says that their buyers for cedar posts and rails, as well as bagged and bailed cedar mulch come from across North America. They are anticipating a full-start up in mid to late September. They are making some changes to their existing equipment, as well as adding some new equipment such as a storage bin for the mulch as well as a metering jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

Photo: Laura Keil

Valemount Public Works employee Trevor Pelletier fastens new banners in Valemount’s downtown Monday. Tourism Valemount ordered 16 banners, eight with a summer theme, and eight with a winter theme. They are made of matte vinyl and cost $148 each. The total cost of the project was $3,759 and wraps up the downtown revitalization. Two new stop signs at 5th Ave. and Elm Street were also scheduled to go in this week.

More cougar sightings

Stay tuned! The Rocky Mountain Goat has been granted a full-access tour of T.R.C.’s facilities. Watch for a photo-filled profile of this unique local industry in next week’s issue.

Canoe River train wreck memorial to draw 50 vets

Joseph Nusse

More Inside:

bin for their new colouring system. “We just started colouring mulch onsite last year.” In total there should be just shy of 30 employees. The McBride Community Forest Corporation will be the main timber supplier for T.R.C. once they resume production. TRC is a zero-waste operation. All waste wood generated producing cedar shake blocks or post and rails is turned into marketable cedar mulch. Milling Entrepreneur Tom Ryan purchased the mill site that is now TRC in 1992. In 2004, TimberWest magazine reported that TRC was the number one manufacturer of western red cedar post and rails in North America.

Laura Keil lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com Dozens of war veterans, cadets and dignitaries will be in Valemount Sept. 10-12 for the 60th anniversary of the Canoe River train crash that killed 17 soldiers who were en route to Korea. On that November day in 1950, Valemount resident Bob Beeson, now 96, heard from a section man that two trains had collided at Canoe River. He and Les

McKirdy drove up the mountain in his power wagon to see if they could help. “We were outside and we heard this thunder and we said ‘What’s that?’” Beeson says. “The front car was an old wooden coach with no bumper between it and the engine and they just piled up on top of the two locomotives.”

Community TV ruling

Cont’ A5

A2 Wednesday, September 01 2010

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Jasper-Robson Valley trekking

Photos: Art Carson Art Carson, Ian Woolsey, and Barb Jensen of Valemount and Tete-Jaune trekked from Jasper to Kinbasket Lake recently, uncovering pristine backcountry scenery over the course of the four-day hike. The route traces south of Jasper on the Icefields Parkway highway, past Beacon Lake on the BC-Alberta border, into the headwaters of the Fraser river, and out the Hugh Allan drainage to the East Canoe forest service road.

The hiker’s 12 commandments

1. Choose a route according to your fitness level. Don’t embark on a hike without first having carried out appropriate training and make sure you plan the trip carefully. 2. Submit your hiking route to a tourist office in the hiking area so they know where you are if it becomes necessary to conduct a search for you. Tell them where you’re staying, where you’re going and when you expect to return. 3. Weather is crucial on a hiking trip. Listen to the weather forecast and don’t set out if the weather is bad. 4. Listen to good advice from experienced hikers. 5. Be prepared for bad weather and accidents, even on short trips. 6. Always remember hiking Just 25 minutes west from Mt. Robson... maps and compass or GPS. 7. Never go out alone. 8. Turn back before weather conditions become bad. 9. Save your energy and look for shelter while there’s still time. 10. Always take first aid equipment with you. 11. Always bring extra clothing, even on short trips. 12. Don’t leave waste such as plastic, metal or other materials behind. Not only do they spoil the countryside, they may also pose a threat to wildlife. 5th Avenue, Valemount BC

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

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Locals capture cougar on film Curtis and Bonnie Culp got a close-up shot of a cougar recently with their wildlife camera at their farm in Dunster. The picture was taken with a Digital Moultrie game camera, which detects movement and is often used by hunters. The camera has an infrared flash so the pictures at night are black and white. Curtis Culp says the cougar shown in the photo hasn’t bothered anything on their farm and has been seen by other people in the area during the summer.

Cougars have been spotted in Valemount, Dunster and McBride in August. Conservation Officer Todd Hunter says cougars often roam at this time of year searching for food, which may explain the increased sightings this past month. He says their behaviour varies year-to-year and is difficult to predict. A cougar that stalks a person or place repeatedly is destroyed if caught, he says. Thus far, no cougars have been caught in the Valley.

Small River bridge enddate revised for spring Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

The Small River bridge project on Highway 16 will not be completed until the spring, instead of October, as previously anticipated. Formula Contractors Project Manager Paul Tiefensee says traffic will not be disrupted after September, however, as it will become a paved two-lane highway again. Forumula site managers say the plan is to cap the piers and abutments that have been driven in place already, then re-burry and re-pave the already-existing road

surface. The one-lane detour bridge that has been constructed and used all summer under 24hour traffic control will be left in place, but will not be used all winter. When construction resumes on the project in March or April of 2011, one-lane controlled traffic will resume. Tiefensee says the project’s permits are good until June of 2011, but he anticipates the bridge will be completed well before then. “In March and April the river has lower flow rates,” he says. “There will be less water we have to divert. Also, waiting for this period will have less of an impact on fish.”

All aspects of the project including proposed timelines are developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of the Environment. He says this summer Formula Contractors have installed two piers and one abutment. They will need to install one more abutment in the spring. The reasoning for stopping work in September is based on anticipated ground frost. “We only have until the end of September to get the road surface re-paved, but once it is done, you will not even know it is there,” he says.

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Photo: Joe Nusse

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Village updates

McBride

new detachment commander in McBride. He attended the council meeting. Kennedy moved from Laura Keil Golden, and will be reporting lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com information from the RCMP to Storage council every few months. McBride council agreed to look into options for storing the gazebo, benches and other accessories over the winter while the new trail Joseph Nusse east of town is completed. jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com Grants awarded No Thru Road sign for Swift Creek The McBride Community Foun- Road dation awarded sums of money The council carries a motion to through their mini grant program. erect a ‘no thru road’ sign on Swift The Dunster Fine Arts Society is Creek road. The Ramada Inn reslotted to receive a small grant to- quests the sign due to significant wards obtaining the empty school traffic using their parking lot as a building in Dunster. turn around.

Valemount

Cougars Several residents have complained to council members about cougars on their properties. Terry Fox Run It’s the 30th anniversary of the Terry Fox Run this year. Council passes a motion to donate to this year’s event. New Detachment Commander Corporal Barry Kennedy is the

Non-treaty storage agreement delegate A request was received for the Village of Valemount to send a delegate to Columbia Basin nontreaty storage agreement talks. Ongoing meetings will occur between October and December of 2010. Council resolves to register a delegate and select the a representative at a later date. New lease agreement for wildfire

attack base A new 20-year lease agreement was proposed to council for village property already leased by the Ministry of Forest Protection base located at the old Valemount Airport property. The proposed new lease agreement is based on a rate of $4800 per year plus annual adjustments for costs of living. A motion to renew the lease carries. BC One Call BC One Call is seeking the Village of Valemount to become a member municipality providing their service regarding safety digging. Motion to join carries. Swift Creek bridge, trail extension The council resolved to send a letter to the Regional District of Fraser Fort George recommending that access to the the salmon viewing bridge at George Hicks Regional Park be extended to a proposed trail on the North side of the creek. The proprietors of Yellowhead Campground agree in principle to approve an extension of a salmon viewing trail which will connect onto their property. Motion to send a letter of recommendation carries.

Ash Street Lift Station A budget outline by ICI Electrical and Control Consulting Ltd. was presented to council regarding the cost of upgrading a lift station on Ash Street. The total budget cost is estimated to be $165,643.13 plus HST. Motion to approve ICI to manage the project carries. 17th Ave Water Extension A request of interest to extend village water and sewer services was

heard from Dan Cuddeback. A motion encouraging Cuddeback to solicit interest from other neighbours regarding potential village boundary expansion passes. Court House lease renewal A recommendation to renew the lease of village land by the Province for the Court House was heard. Motion to renew the lease passes.

Receding glacier uncovers body from 1989 The body found by two climbers on the Columbia Icefields approximately two weeks ago has been identified. William Holland of Maine perished in April of 1989 when a cornice failed under his weight. The ensuing fall took Holland approximately 1,000 feet down a mountainside. Holland and a partner were attempting to climb a route known as ‘Slipstream’ on a 3,456 metre peaked called Snow Dome. Hol-

land’s partner was then stranded, and another climbing party eventually found and aided him. Holland’s family has been notified. Representatives from Parks Canada say that several people have died trying to climb this route. Holland’s body was covered by ice until this year. His body was found in a frozen and mummified state with most of his clothing and skin still intact.

The Rocky Mountain Goat is distributed free weekly Office: 1070, 5th Avenue, Valemount British Columbia

Laura Keil

Telephone: (250) 566-4606 E-mail: jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com, or lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com Web-site: www.therockymountaingoat.com Mail Address: Box 21, Valemount BC, V0E 2Z0

Co-Owner Editor/Reporter lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

Joseph Nusse

Co-Owner Publisher/Sales jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

The Rocky Mountain Goat is produced and distributed by ‘The Rocky Mountain Goat News’ and is subject to copyright. Reproduction, or distribution of any article, photo, or other content must recieve prior consent from Joseph Nusse (Co-Owner/ Publisher) or Laura Keil (Co-Owner/Editor).

Illustrations by Luke Siemens

The Rocky Mountain Goat is a free distribution newspaper serving a population base of approximately 4,000 residents in Blue River to Valemount, McBride to Dome Creek.

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

60 years after the Canoe River train wreck: ‘We were outside when we heard this thunder and we said ‘What’s that?’ Cont’ from A1

A man from Blue River, Bill Tinsley, had pieces of wreckage still strewn about on a pole camp below a mill on the hillside, either side of the tracks.” The corner that obstructed the view is and he was making poles by the tracks. “He’s standing on the bank and saw the no longer there, Beeson says. They also one train coming and the other one he moved the cairn up the tracks. Dong Han of Jasper, who moved to Canheard it around the corner,” Beeson says. ada from Korea 40 years ago, says he sent “So he took his handkerchief and waved at the troop train and kept pointing like a letter to the Korean authorities asking this. The engineer waved back at him, for official recognition of the sacrifice of the soldiers who died in the Canoe River thought he was just waving to him.” That was the only signal the engineer train wreck. “We very much appreciated those who had before he saw another train barrelling sacrificed, ” he says. “Now Koreans are in a towards him. Afterwards newspapers described the position to give back.” When Han first scene in horrific detail from wit- “Silently, we peered out moved to Canada, he nesses: the windows at the bits helped lobby to change the name from ‘Korean “This lad to and pieces of wreckage still Conflict’ to ‘Korean whom I gave the 217s was badly strewn about on either side War.’ He still supports efscalded; there forts to recognize those didn’t seem to be of the tracks.” a piece of his flesh Jim Henderson, train wreck sur- soldiers who helped his country half a century visible that wasn’t vivor coming to the Valemount ago and would like to burned,” said one memorial Sept. 10-12 see more recognition woman passenger of the Canadians who who volunteered helped his country to help the train when North Korea invaded in 1950, trigvictims. Another woman described a soldier gering three years of war. Les Dammann, president of the legion who had a chunk of glass lodged from his in Valemount, says they may do tours of chest to his back. There were no medical supplies onboard the crash site during the weekend. Cadets will be coming in from Prince and the troop cars, made of wood and George for the parade on Saturday, as well steel, were splintered beyond recognition. Rescuers used axes and hammers to as the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery gain entry into the contorted mass of bro- from Petawawa – the same regiment as ken rail cars. A cloud of steam hung over the soldiers who died in the train. Dammann says in addition to being the two engine cars that had collided. On a reflection on the sacrifice of Canadian both sides was a 75-foot drop, but luckily soldiers, it will be a reunion of veterans. no cars rolled down the hill. The troop cars were the most damaged, The actual crash occurred Nov. 21. Damwitnesses said, and many soldiers were mann says they chose to hold the memoscalded when steam heating pipes broke rial in September to avoid winter conditions that would make it difficult for some in the coaches. In all, 17 soldiers, and four engineers of the veterans to travel. died as a result of the accident. The engineer charged in the crash was let go and Train Memorial Schedule never served jail time. Friday Sept. 10 Jim Henderson was one of the soldiers Comraderie Night on the train that day. Luckily, he was sitting in the rear coach, so to him, the acBurgers and drinks at the cident felt like a “slight bump.” The train Legion 5:30 came to a stop, however, and Henderson and other soldiers got out of the train and Saturday Sept. 11 began helping to evacuate other people. Parade, 5th Ave. 10:30 After spending some time in Edmonton Memorial Service, Legion 11:30 and Wainwright, they returned on a train Luncheon, Legion 12:00 to the coast. On their way, they crossed Vets dinner, Legion 6 p.m. the same spot where the accident occurred as Henderson recalls in his book: “As our new train approached Canoe Sunday Sept. 12 River, it slowed to a crawl. Silently, we Pancake Breakfast, Legion peered out the windows at the bits and

Images courtesy Valemount Legion museum archives

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Editorial:

“Where is The Goat?” Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

The phone rang on a Thursday morning. The voice on the other end was sharp and to the point. “People are now expecting it, and they are wondering why it is not here.” The paper was gone. This type of phone call is not a one-time occurrence. Another local businessman asked this week by e-mail, “Why are there no goats at the cafe here in McBride?” Upon asking our distributor…well there were a few days ago. We are replenishing the local IGA three times a week. All of a sudden, I am realizing that 1500 copies a week is not enough. A Jasper resident asks if we will start covering more Jasper news, and if we can send more than 200 copies per week to Jasper as they are all gone within days. Wow! Could we have expected to gain a following so quickly? We have had to re-think out marketing here over the last 11 issues. We want to be YOUR local paper. Owned by locals, written for locals. We encourage all input and take any criticism as a challenge to rise to. We will have the

odd spelling error, not because our university degrees a fraudulent, but because there is only two of us, and we finish the paper at 4 a.m. every week. We need staff, but we do not have a dependable cash flow yet. That is ok – another challenge to rise to! I am pleased to announce that The Rocky Mountain Goat has decided to take a different approach. We are working with Leigh Jackson out of McBride. She is a trained graphics designer and has worked in this trade, as well as in sales and marketing, for many years. Laura and I are resolved to serve this valley in the best manner possible. We truly believe that a quality free paper is what this valley needs. We are well aware that we will not be making money beyond cots for a while, but this is ok because we are so happy to be here, and we do not want to leave any time soon. And so, we are ready for business. I am currently working on a debit/ credit machine to make payment easier,

and my house is starting to resemble a full-time office by the day. It is so exciting, and I have never had so much fun writing 2,000 words a week. I can only imagine what kind of fun we will have now that I have completed my summer job. It will be nice not having to try and balance two full-time jobs. Thank you all for the support and enthusiasm. Thank you to everyone who has signed the petition to expedite our consideration for government ads, a true make-it-or-break-it clientele for any paper. And so…our little experiment is starting to take shape. It just makes sense. A newspaper owned by local journalists who care deeply about the product they distribute, and the town they live in. No overhead scraping cream off the top. No absentee passive share holders demanding returns. No conglomerate branching out, spreading out their liabilities in order to exploit short-term booms. Just two journalists who own and run their own paper. It almost sounds too good to be true, yet

Gardening with Pete under 25% humidity. This is also a good environment in which to finish ripening tomatoes. Over the years, I have had the best luck with my onions and garlic stored at this temperature and humidity. Cool and Dry: If you dry your own peas or beans or any other food in a dehydrator such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, chives, etc, they will keep for up to a year at 40-50F(5-10C) and under 25% humidity. Cool and Moist: For short term storage of beans, peppers, eggplant, summer squash a temperature of 40F (5C) and a humidity of 90% will keep them for one to three weeks. This is also a good temperature and humidity for storage of potatoes, carrots, beets, rutabagas, and other root crops in a dark cellar for longer-term storage. Cold and Moist: If carefully washed and dried then stored at 34F (1C) and 90% humidity you can keep fresh beets, leafy greens, fresh peas, radishes, green onions, broccoli, lettuce and cabbage for two weeks to one month with good flavour and texture.

Cheers, Joseph Nusse Comments? jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

Peter Amyoony Special to The Goat

I think the most compelling reason most of us plant and grow a vegetable garden is that it allows us to eat produce fresh from the garden. I always enjoy the look on the faces of visitors as they bite into a just picked tomato or cucumber in the early afternoon when the flavour is at its best. Gardening also makes it possible to extend those great flavours throughout the year by various means of preserving and storage. Some garden favourites such as peas, radishes and berries begin to lose their taste and texture from the moment they are picked. There is no substitute for eating them fresh. Others, such as winter squash, pumpkin and root crops remain tasty and fresh with proper storage. This allows us to extend our garden season into fall or even winter. The two main things to consider for good storage are temperature and humidity. Warm and Dry: Winter squash, pumpkin and melons and sweet potatoes like it at 55-65F (13-18C) and

here we are, sleep deprived, and still excited to wake up at 7:30 a.m. to greet the incoming Greyhound bus carrying this week’s issue. But why? I get asked this question often. Maybe it is simply the fact that I saw a model that worked other places, and I thought that it could do some good here too. We have so many amazing individuals with amazing stories to tell in this valley. We have readers who do not live here and who have absolutely no attachments here tell us so. As one Prince George resident commented to me “sometimes the Robson Valley seems like it is the most interesting place to live in the world.” I was in Jasper on Sunday, and what sight did I see? Three tourists reading our paper in the information center! It just makes sense. If it is free, EVERYBODY reads it. So do you care to go for this ride with us?

Should Valemount Get a Prison?

These guidelines are for short-term storage for fresh eating. If you plan to freeze or can any vegetable, it is always best to do so as soon as possible after harvest. By knowing the different temperatures and humidity needs of different vegetables, we can prolong the fresh taste of own home grown vegetables. 39

Pete Amyoony is a gardener in the Robson Valley of central B.C. high in the Rocky Mountains near Mount Robson. He has lived, worked and gardened in the Dunster area for over thirty years.

Last chance to voice your opinion regarding a prison in Valemount. Here at The Goat we have a voting function on our website which we intend to put to good use. The topic of the month has been “should Valemount get a prison… yes or no”. Our goal is to get 100 votes. Right now we are at about 30. If you want to vote on this issue, go to: www.therockymountaingoat.com The poll is on the home page, and the voting button in plainly visible. You can only cast one vote per computer.

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Regional District of Fraser Fort George board meeting highlights (August 19, 2010) Encorp Information Briefing

Neil Hastie, the CEO for Encorp Pacific provided a brief overview on their 170 “Return It” depots in BC. Mr. Hastie provided a look at Encorps’ operations in the Fraser Fort George region, noting they have 3 depots in Prince George and one in each Mackenzie, McBride and Valemount. In our region, 2.1 million kg of beverage containers are recycled, which works out to an average of 307 per person, making our region the second highest rate in the province.

IPG Agreement for Land Development

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George will be entering into an agreement with Initiatives Prince George to carry out Phase Two of the Industrial Lands Development project, which identifies areas within the Regional District suitable for industrial development. Phase one included the development of an Industrial Business Opportunity Profile, completion of detailed site evaluations for seven identified sites, and the establishment of an Industrial Lands Advisory Committee to identify issues and processes for bringing Regional District industrial lands to market-readiness. The next phase of the plan includes looking at options for disposition of land, defining standards and acceptable impacts of potential uses and development of a proactive marketing program.

Lakes Community Cemetery Going to Alternative Approval Process

A proposal calling for the creation of a cemetery along Ness Lake Road will seek elector approval through an alternative approval process (AAP). A previous attempt to establish a cemetery service in the Lakes area occurred in 2004/2005, when the proponents anticipated a $25,000 land acquisition fee, and included that in their anticipated expenses. The proposal went to referendum but was narrowly defeated. A free Crown grant is available for the land, so the cost of the service would be reduced significantly from what was proposed in the earlier referendum. Under the AAP, electors within the proposed service area have a certain amount of time to advise the Regional District of their objections to the proposal. If more than 10% of the electors hold this opinion, then the local government cannot proceed with the proposed bylaw, agreement, or other matter without holding a referendum.

Village of Valemount asks for Regional Air Quality Committee

In a letter to the Regional District, the Village of Valemount is requesting the Regional District strike a Regional Air Quality Committee. The request comes after Valemount and surrounding areas have been faced with dust issues from Kinbasket Lake. The Village is requesting the Regional District take the lead, as the air quality issues extend beyond the borders of one municipality or electoral areal. Directors with the Regional District voted to have staff examine the issue and bring back a report for their consideration.

Community Grants

The Board approved the following requests for Community and Recreation Grants: • $5796 to the Reid Lake Community Association for well upgrades • $7000 to the Bear Lake improvement Society for improvements around the cemetery and townsite • $2000 to the Summit Lake Community Association for hoses and miscellaneous fire equipment

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

CRTC sets higher bar for community content No direct funding to local stations Laura Keil lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com As there is no cable company operating community A recent decision by the Canadian Radio-Television Telecommunications Commission will mean cable television in the Robson Valley, the possibility of sellcompanies must show at least 50 per cent locally-pro- ing material to a company elsewhere is problematic, duced content, from the 30 per cent they must show McCracken says. now. “We’re doing hyper-local stuff. We don’t want it or The decision, to come into effect by 2014, is designed need it to make sense for people outside of the town,” to encourage cable companies such as Shaw Cable and he says. “They say ‘Oh your stuff is so great, you just Rogers Cable to buy more local content from the com- sell it to these guys and that can be part of their contribution.’ But for us, how do munities they serve. “We’re doing hyper-local stuff. We don’t want it we make something sellable “What we said to the or need it to make sense for people outside of the while still serving our comcable company is ‘You town.” can do more than what munity?” Andru McCracken, VCTV Producer Under the new policy, the you do now,’” says MiCRTC requires community chel Arpin, Vice-Chairman of the CRTC during the proceedings. “You should members be involved in the creation of at least half of support them financially more than you’re currently a community channel’s programming. This means that doing.” the original idea for a program must come from memLocal over-the-air stations such as the Valemount bers of the community, who must also be involved in Community Television (VCTV) will not receive any some aspect of the production, whether in front or befunds and there are no additional resources for com- hind the camera. munity TV volunteers apart from what cable compaAt least half of a channel’s programming expendinies provide. But Arpin says the decision will make it tures will also have to be devoted to this type of proeasier for local people to sell their products to cable gramming, as well as to community outreach initiacompanies, since the companies have to increase com- tives and the training and development of volunteers. munity participation. Arpin says they are not shutting the door to addVCTV producer Andru McCracken, says he is disap- ing resources to small stations, but stations like VCTV pointed with the outcome of many months of consul- will continue to operate solely on a tax-based operating budget. tations.

Oil royalties to be spent on oil infrastructure

The Province has awarded $115.6 million in royalty credits under the Infrastructure Royalty Credit Program to 16 companies for 21 natural gas and petroleum infrastructure projects. The 21 new road and pipeline projects will support natural gas and petroleum exploration and development activity, and improve access to underdeveloped areas in northeast British Columbia. Historically, the Infrastructure Royalty Credit Program generates about $2.50 in incremental royalties for every dollar awarded in royalty credits. Projects were awarded credits under the Infrastructure Royalty Credit Program. Industry response to the Request for Applications was very strong, with applications for 47 projects involving a total request of approximately $706.4 million in estimated construction costs. The program provides natural gas and petroleum companies with royalty deductions in exchange for industry investment in road and pipeline infrastructure. Companies are required to fund the entire cost of an approved infrastructure project, and may receive up to 50 per cent of the eligible project costs from the Province paid in the form of royalty deduction once the project is completed. Since 2004, the program has allocated more than $485 million in infrastructure royalty credits, resulting in 71 new road-based projects and 83 new pipeline projects.

4/4 Truck For Sale

I’ve lived in the Robson Valley for 31 years, and every time I’ve gone looking for a good, dependable, low mileage vehicle it’s almost impossible. Well here’s one available. My 1995 NISSAN XE-V6 4/4 5-speed is very clean and reliable. There’s 116K on the odometer, and it’s always been cared for by Robson Valley Auto Service. It has new tires, new battery, no cracked glass, very minimal rust, cassette and CD player, canopy and boat rack. The only reason I’m parting with my faithful chariot is that I cannot operate a clutch anymore, so bought an automatic. I purchased this truck when it had 21 pampered Ks, and have never had a wreck or any mechanical difficulties. I wish this truck was around when I was looking for a good 4/4. Asking $7200. Phone Mick @ 250-968-4332 or e-mail: callasm@telus.net

Attention all Robson Valley tourism businesses: The Rocky Mountain Goat is now distributed free in Jasper, Mt. Robson, AND Blue River

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Locals conquer Edmonton marathon

Joseph Nusse jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

Three locals pounded the Edmonton asphalt Aug. 22, to finish the Canadian Derby Edmonton Marathon. They were among 3,500 people who laced up for the full and half-marathons. “It was easier than I originally thought,” says Lorelei Schneider, who ran her first ever marathon in Edmonton. “The last five kilometres were really painful but getting there was not too bad.” In a highly regimented ongoing training schedule, which lasted over 18 weeks preceding the race, Schneider’s longest run was 32 km, 10 km shy of the standard 42 km marathon length. Not only did Schneider finish the race, a big accomplishment for any first-time marathoner, she finished with a time of only four hours and twelve minutes.

“We were really im- Jungo says. “Bogdan and of marathon races to well pressed with her race,” another runner help her over 30. He will get ansays Silvia Jungo, anoth- finish the race.” other chance to improve er ValeThe on his time this Thanksm o u n t “Now that I know what E d - giving at a Kelowna marr e s i d e n t to expect for next time, m o n - athon. “That will be the season who par- I think I’m going to try t o n t icipated M a r a - ender for us this year,” again...” in the t h o n says Jungo. Lorelei Schneider, marathon. brings For training, Wasaznik Valemount Resident. Jungo and enjoys running the Swift her husCreek trail, a 12-km forband Bogdan Wasaznik Wasaznik’s total number ested loop starting and both completed their races with good times. Jungo finished her 21 km walk in three hours and eleven minutes. Wasaznik finished his INVITATION TO QUOTE full marathon run in four The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (the “Regional Dishours and one minute. trict”) invites written quotations from qualified contractors to The event was Jungo’s provide snow clearing services at 461 and 441 Columbia Street, fifth half-marathon walk. McBride, BC. The contractor will provide personnel, superviWasaznik’s time ap- sion, labour, and heavy equipment to complete the snow clearing services specified in the Scope of Work contained herein. proached his personal best, however he and an- Quotations, marked CS 02-10 Snow Clearing Services Robson other marathon runner Valley Recreation and Community Centres, will be received stopped to help someone until 2:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, September 23, 2010, at the Regional District office, 155 George Street, Prince George, BC cross the finish line. V2L 1P8. Qualified contractors must complete and submit the “One woman was pass- Schedule of Prices and List of Equipment. Quotations submiting out right at the end,” ted by fax to 250-562-8676 will be accepted. It is the bidder’s

ADULT COMPUTER CLASS

Free at the Library Monday Nights 6:30pm-8:30pm for 4 weeks First session starts September 13th Second session starts October 25th Sign up at the Library Seating is limited!

responsibility to confirm that a faxed quote has been received. Submissions received after the stated closing date and time will be disqualified and not considered by the Regional District.

A mandatory site meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, September 16, 2010, at the Robson Valley Recreation Centre, 461 Columbia Street, McBride, BC for all qualified contractors wanting to submit a quote for consideration. Quotes from contractors who did not attend the mandatory site meeting will not be considered. Invitation to Quote documents may be obtained on or after Wednesday, September 1, 2010: • • •

Real Tree Wood Products Ltd. *Shop Welding & Fabricating *Portable welding-air arc *Custom aluminum welding / work *Bumpers / roof racks, etc. Robert Johnson

PO Box 11, McBride, BC V0J 2E0 Phone (250) 569-2459 Cell (250) 569-7912 Fax (250) 569-0399 Email: realtreewoodproducts@gmail.com

In a PDF (public document format) file format from the Regional District’s website www.rdffg.bc.ca. In hard copy from the Regional District Service Centre, 155 George Street, Prince George, BC between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding statutory holidays. In hard copy from the Robson Valley Recreation Centre, 461 Columbia Street, McBride, BC during arena operating hours.

Quoted prices must remain in effect for thirty (30) days after the closing date and time. All applicable taxes will be shown separately. The successful contractor will be required to itemize taxes on all invoices submitted to the Regional District. All inquiries relating to this Invitation to Quote must be directed to: Lyle Lewis, Facilities Manager Regional District of Fraser-Fort George Phone 250-569-3360 Fax 250-569-3337 Email: llewis@rdffg.bc.ca 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Telephone: (250) 960-4400. Toll Free 1-800-667-1959 Fax: (250) 563-7520, Web: www.rdffg.bc.ca

finishing right on the edge of Valemount. He also uses town roads to train for the asphalt surface. For Schneider, succeeding in finishing her first marathon has left her inspired. “Now that I know what to expect for next time, I think I’m going to try again. I am going to try to

get under four hours.” Schneider ran the event in part as a fundraiser for the Diabetes Association of Canada. She has raised close to $1800 and some donations are still coming in. Comments? jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

INVITATION TO QUOTE

The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (the “Regional District”) invites written quotations from qualified contractors to provide snow clearing services at the Canoe Valley Recreation Centre, 98 Elm Street, Valemount BC. The contractor will provide personnel, supervision, labour, and heavy equipment to complete the snow clearing services specified in the Scope of Work contained herein. Quotations, marked CS 03-10 Snow Clearing Services - Canoe Valley Recreation Centre, will be received until 2:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, September 23, 2010, at the Regional District office, 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8. Qualified contractors must complete and submit the Schedule of Prices and List of Equipment. Quotations submitted by fax to 250-562-8676 will be accepted. It is the bidder’s responsibility to confirm that a faxed quote has been received. Submissions received after the stated closing date and time will be disqualified and not considered by the Regional District. A mandatory site meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m., Friday, September 17, 2010, at the Canoe Valley Recreation Centre, 98 Elm Street, Valemount, BC for all qualified contractors wanting to submit a quote for consideration. Quotes from contractors who did not attend the mandatory site meeting will not be considered. Invitation to Quote documents may be obtained on or after Wednesday, September 1, 2010: • •

•

In a PDF (public document format) file format from the Regional District’s website www.rdffg.bc.ca. In hard copy from the Regional District Service Centre, 155 George Street, Prince George, BC between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding statutory holidays. In hard copy from the Canoe Valley Recreation Centre, 98 Elm Street, Valemount, BC during arena operating hours.

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

The Tourism Directory

Call Joe at 250-566-1444 or jnusse@therockymountaingoat.com

$40 for 4 weeks, or $20 for one week

Teepee Meadows Cottage

Spectacular mountain and marshland scenery Phone:250-566-9875 Located 3 km west of Valemount

Hosts: Claude, Alke & Noland Germain 545 Jack Adams Road, Box 786 Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Open at 4:30 pm daily 1002 5th Avenue Valemount, B.C.

Visit us at www.caribougrill.com

The Business Directory

CRACKMASTER Windshield Repair/Replacement Specialists

PET SUPPLIES-HOME ELECTRONICS SHAW DIRECT TV-SIRIUS RADIOS FLAT GLASS-MIRROR-SCREENS CUSTOM VINYL SIGNS-BANNERS-VEHICLE GRAPHICS-MAGNETIC SIGNS WOOD & PELLET STOVES & SUPPLIES WOOD PELLETS

Business directories work! Get noticed for only $10/week

@ Country Wide Sales & Services Ltd Conveniently located downtown @ 1160-5th Ave

Open 9 am -5:30 pm Monday thru Friday

250.566.4380

Briefs: BUSY FIRE SEASON COMES TO A MELLOW END This fire season in B.C. hasn’t been as expensive to fight or as destructive to homes as last season, but more than twice the normal amount of forest has gone up in flames. “We’re more than double our 10-year average in terms of hectares burned,” said provincial fire information officer Alyson Couch. Just over 3,000 square kilometres burned in a matter of weeks. Cooler weather has suddenly changed fire officials’ outlooks just a week after B.C.’s forest minister was sounding a warning of potentially dire consequences as wind whipped up forest fires in the province.

While Couch said there were more evacuation alerts and orders issued this year than last, many more people were evacuated during the 2009 fire season because the fires were closer to larger centres including in the Okanagan and Lillooet, B.C. The government spent $400 million last year fighting the fires compared to more than $165 million this year. Some of the fires are massive and Couch said officials may simply monitor the fires until winter weather arrives.

NO ELECTION DECLARED FOR BEAR LAKE COMMUNITY COMMISSION The Chief Election Officer for the Bear Lake Community Commission by-election has declared that there will be no election due to an insufficient number of candidates. No nominations for candidates were received. Pursuant to theLocal Government Act, the Regional District of FraserFort George is now required to appoint a qualified individual to the position. A report will be presented to the Regional Board at its September 16, 2010 regularly scheduled meeting. The by-election was called for when former commissioner Ed Gronning

passed away earlier this summer. The Bear Lake Community Commission provides administration of local services in the community of Bear Lake including fire protection, street lighting, cemetery, ambulance station, recreation facilities and community water services. The Commission typically comprises four locally elected commissioners and one ex-officio commissioner (the director for Electoral Area G. Bear Lake is located approximately 70 kilometres north of Prince George and has a population of about 170 within its service area. Bear Lake Elementary School has been closed for several years.

A10

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Plain Talk Horoscopes

Twenty for a Toonie: The Classified Ads Classified ads policy If it is for free, it is free. Up to 20 words for $2, 30 words for $3, 40 words for $4 etc. If the asking price is over $499, then it is $5 for 20 words, $6 for 30 words etc. Non-business announcements are welcome at the same rates. The Rocky Mountain Goat reserves the right to refuse to print any classified submission that is not an advertisement of a private sale, or rental arrangement. How to submit an ad

To submit your classified ad, e-mail or call the goat, or place your ad in an envelope with payment and drop it in our mailbox, 1070 5th Ave For Rent

Building Materials

For Sale

Salvaged metal siding for sale. Perfect for any outbuilding or shop. Approximately 550-600 square foot coverage. Will consider any offer! Call Joe 250-566-1444

500 gal. single-wall fuel tank. Asking $200. Call 250566-5069, ask for Jared

Trusses for sale. Approximately 42 foot span. 14 units. Single slant, could be modified with a chalk line and skill saw. Now considering offers! Call Joe 250566-1444 and skill saw. Now considering offers! Call Joe 250-566-1444

Wanted Wanted: chairs, hammock,porch couch, filing cabinets. Call 250566-5135

Heifer and one-year old llama for sale. Cute kitten to give away. Call 250-5660010, ask for Maria. Mobile Home with full addition, and large garage on a lot, in Valemount recently renovated. comes w/ fridge stove washer dryer. Currently rented. Asking $110.000.00 O.B.O Call 778 328 7285 leave a message.

Roommate Wanted $295 plus shared utilities. 1 bedroom in 2 bedroom apartment in Valemount. 250-566-4044 Nanny Needed Nanny Required. Sept – Dec part time. Requires 2 days in Crescent Spur, 2 days in Dunster Jan–Apr – full time live in at Crescent Spur. Salary based on experience. Pls email resumes or inquires to Puzzles Jessica@crescentspur.com. You can reach me at 250553-2300 or 250-968-4486.

Sudoku-Puzzles .net

Flooring, Wide Plank Fir, 8”, www.

Mazda B4000 4/4 1994. C/W Canopy, 2 sets of tires T&G, new, kiln dried, select on rims, well maintained, & Futoshiki grade, $2.95/sqft.Sudoku, Please call Kakuro kept all receipts, 293K. Rea250-573-1817 evenings. son for sale; family got bigger. Asking $2500. Call JF at 250-566-8411. Sudoku 9x9 - Hard (131424621)

2 4

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Development Variance Permit No. 03-2010

Notice is hereby given that a public hearing for proposed Development Variance Permit No. 03-2010 will be held:

7 5

7:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 7, 2010 Village of McBride Council Chambers 100 Robson Centre – 855 SW Frontage Rd. McBride, BC

THE CORPORATION OF THE VILLAGE OF MCBRIDE

5 7

Aries: Re-reading ‘Go Dog Go’ will give you a new perspective on life. Taurus: Today is a day to be adventurous, go skydiving or try putting extra pepper on your dinner. Gemini: You can make your own luck today, I would suggest papier mache as the medium. Cancer: Today is a day to work on your relationships, you can go back to neglecting them tomorrow. Leo: It doesn’t matter whether or not you think you can, you just have to do it anyways. You will probably fail and learn a valuable lesson about humility. Virgo: You will repeatedly ignore the desire of others for you to hold your tongue, why can’t you just act civil for once in your life? Libra: I forgot to tell you about the important life changing opportunities that you had last week. Sorry. Scorpio: Someone is trying to tell you something, take off your headphones. Sagittarius: Take some time for yourself this week, it may not be too late to save your sanity. Capricorn: You are feeling extremely confident today, don’t question it or you will realize your confidence is unjustified. Aquarius: Others jealous of your success may be plotting your downfall, if you are unsuccessful you have nothing to worry about. Pieces: With a lot on your plate, it is very important to keep balanced, be especially careful on stairs.

Shared Accommodation dwntwn McBride Incl: lge bdrm with private entrance, ADSL, phone/voice box, furniture. Shared: util, TV, house/yard. NS, ND/A (no drugs/alcohol), No Pets. Refs plse. $450 - 569-8807

I`ll be your salesman!

By Craig Elder, M.A. Economics

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Advertise your rental equipment in our classified section Solution:

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Remember, EVERYBODY reads a free newspaper Call Joe, 250-566-1444

The purpose of Development Variance Permit No. 032010 is to vary section 22.6 of Zoning Bylaw No. 703, 2010 to reduce the side setback requirement from ten (10) feet to two (2) feet at the property legally described as Lot 7, Block 5, Plan 1373, DL 5316 (241 Dominion Street). At the public hearing, all those who deem their interest in the land to be affected by the proposed Development Variance Permit No. 03-2010 shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard or to present written submissions. Any material received before or at the public hearing will become public information. Please note that emails cannot be accepted as written submissions. A copy of the Development Variance Permit application may be examined at the office of the Village of McBride, 100 Robson Centre-855 SW Frontage Road, McBride, BC, during regular office hours from August 23 to September 7, 2010. Eliana Clements Chief Administrative Officer

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Community Events

A11

September

Sept. 10-12 60th anniversary of the Canoe River train wreck near Valemount that killed 17 soldiers who were en route to Korea. (See story A5) Location: Valemount Legion

Sept. 4 (First Saturday of every month) Dunster Family Dance 7p.m.-10p.m. Instruction from 7-8p.m, Potluck snacks 9 p.m. more dancing until 10 p.m. Location: Dunster Community Hall Waltz, fox-trot, polka, cha-cha, two-step-schottische Admission: $5 for anyone over 12 or $10 per family

Sept. 15 Community Awareness Night Location: Valemount Community Hall

Sept. 4-5 Valemount Marina Association Annual Fishing Derby Location: Kinbasket Lake near Valemount

Sept. 17th Thrift Store Fashion Show Location: Anglican-United Church, McBride

Sept. 11 Duane Steele concert 8 p.m. (dinner at 7 p.m.) Location: Best Western Eaglesview Tickets $20 for show and dinner

Terry Fox 30th anniversary weekend Sept. 18-19 Saturday 18th - Hike to Mt. Terry Fox Sunday 19th - Terry Fox Walk around the marsh Watch future papers for details

Ongoing diversions

Every day during spawning season Interpretive talks on spawning salmon Valemount Visitor Centre 7 p.m. Every Wednesday Farmer’s Market in Jasper Location: Jasper Legion parking lot 10 a.m. Valemount Seniors’ Music Night 7p.m.

Every Thursday Cribbage tournament Location: Valemount Golden Years Lodge lower level 1-4 p.m.

Every Friday Farmer’s Market in McBride 12-3 Location: McBride Village Park In Valemount: Musical jam at The Gathering Tree cafe, 7 p.m. Hamburgers and drinks at the Legion, 5:30 p.m.

Community Announcements As of September 5, services at the Anglican-United church in Valemount will be at 9 am and in McBride at 11:30 am. Sunday school programs are provided at both services. All are welcome!

Got a community event or announcement? Let us know! lkeil@therockymountaingoat.com

Every Friday to Sunday Live music on the Canoe Mountain Restaurant patio. Location: Valemount 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Every Saturday Farmer’s Market in Dunster 10 a.m. Location: Dunster Community Hall Farmer’s Market in McBride

Did you know?

The Robson Valley is only one hour from Jasper. Ways to travel: By train: Three days a week, catch the 12:45 train from Jasper through Mount Robson Park to Dunster or McBride or all the way to Prince George or Prince Rupert. Cost to McBride (1-way)= $30 By bus: Catch a Greyhound bus to Valemount for $25 or to McBride for $36. By car: Take Hwy 16 west to Dunster or McBride. To get to Valemount or Blue River, turn onto Hwy 5.

Robson Valley Weather Wednesday 14 4 P.O.P. 40%

Thursday 19 4

Friday 22 2

Saturday 15 7 Cloudy, P.O.P 60%

Sunday 13 5 Sun and cloud

Monday

Where are you?

16 5 P.O.P. 60%

A12

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

The Right Agent... For Today’s Market

3270 Hwy 16 E, McBride

201 Dominion St, McBride

RE/MAX Centre city • 1679 15th Avenue • Prince George BC V2L 3X2 • 1-250-562-3600 Each office is independently owned and operated Data is from sources believed to be reliable but accuracy is not guaranteed.

13292 Bunbury Rd, Tete Jaune Cache

#10-151 Columbia St, McBride

$45,000 $239,000

-View 79 ac parcel -Southern exposure

-Has two creeks -Access is in

$140,000 - Nice heritage home on two large lots - Five bdrms, 2 baths

- Excellent guest house - VENDOR MOVING

$315,000

- Secluded homestead -Awesome views -On 10.32 treed acres -2 storey 3 bedroom

250-981-5742 or 250-569-0125 or Toll Free: 1-877-732-5767 • allanmiller@remax.net

- Affordable housing - Two bed, two bath

-Nicest lot in park -Huge sundeck & yard

AL Miller

MCBRIDE, VALEMOUNT, AND AREA View all listings at: www.robsonvalleyrealestate.ca THE HARD-WORKING NICE GUY

Valemount Museum hosts first Arts Festival

Photo: Andru McCracken

Valemount’s first Arts Festival at the Valemount Museum was a success, attracting some 50 people over the course of the day Aug. 28. Participants were treated to hymn singing, a historic play, a juggling workshop, a local produced film, and of course, a tango demonstration. Mike Austin and Kathy Beeson thrilled festival goers with a passionate demonstration of the Argentina’s for-

bidden dance of love, and then offered a crash course to the public. Organizer Raghu Lokanathan says he wants to thank everyone who came out and volunteered. The arts festival showcased all local talent, and while it was an experiment, the event may turn into something more regular, he says. “It was the first stab at something that could develop into something bigger.”

Achievement Award reception for long-serving mayor

Photo: Laura Keil

The Village of Valemount hosted a reception on August 24 for former mayor of Valemount Jeannette Townsend. Townsend was awarded the BC Community Achievement Award earlier this year.

The Rocky Mountain Goat

Locally owned, locally operated! Next issue; September 08, 2010

Photo: Laura Keil

A four-legged member of the RCMP’s touring musical ride enjoys some Robson Valley views and fresh air enroute to his next show.