sentinel YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER
WEDNESDAY April 25, 2012 $1.16 Plus HST
Volume Issue www.thevalleysentinel.com
SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY SINCE 1986
THE VALLEY
2012 CCNA
INCLUDING THE COMMUNITIES OF VALEMOUNT, MCBRIDE, DUNSTER, TETE JAUNE, BLUE RIVER, MOUNT ROBSON, CRESCENT SPUR AND DOME CREEK
WEATHER MOSTLY CLOUDY High: 10°C Low: -5°C Details page 14
Smoke and Embers THE VALLEY SENTINEL
“Dowsing the flames” Above: On Saturday April 21, between Cedar Street and the railway tracks near 2nd Avenue, Captain Clayton Gee (left) and Firefighter Allan Reale (right) of the Valemount Fire Department cover stubborn embers with foam after a grass fire swept through the area. Photo by Andrea Scholz
Grass fire gets out of hand Daniel Betts EDITOR
L
ast weekend, some local children in Valemount, B.C. received a valuable lesson on why playing with fire is dangerous. According to Valemount Fire Chief, Rick Lalonde, on Saturday, April 21 at around 1 p.m., some children started a fire that quickly got out of hand. The grass fire spread between Cedar Street and the railroad tracks near 2nd Avenue. Fortunately the children had the good sense to run to a nearby residence to call 911 once they realized they were in over their heads. Thanks to a steady breeze the dry grass burned quickly requir-
CBC ENDS ANALOG - PAGE 3
FOND FAREWELL - PAGE 8
ing the Valemount Fire Department to deploy two trucks to contain the blaze, which sent a column of smoke into the sky. Dry fallen trees and other debris provided fuel for flames that threatened to ignite some of the trees along the railroad tracks. Fortunately, the Valemount Fire Department was able to contain and put out the fire before significant damage occurred. Lalonde offered kudos to Constable Price of the Valemount RCMP for his assistance. Lalonde noted the recent dry weather at the time and the fact many residents are burning brush on their properties had generated some concerns. Lalonde reminds residents to take appropriate precautions when burning brush. Pay attention to burn piles and extinguish any fires that cannot be supervised. Have a water hose of the appropriate length ready at all times. Under the right conditions a controlled burn can become uncontrolled very quickly, as some local children can now easily attest to.
WILDE TEA - PAGE 10
RACING HEELS - PAGE 15
2 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
Canadians are living longer and costs for the Old Age Security (OAS) are rising. On April 1, 2023 the Government of Canada plans to start raising the age of eligibility for OAS and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) from 65 to 67.*
What does this mean for you? 54 or older as of March 31, 2012
You may still obtain OAS/GIS at age 65
53 or younger as of March 31, 2012
The age of eligibility for OAS/GIS will change gradually between 2023 and 2029
Starting in July 2013, Canadians who are eligible for, but not yet receiving OAS will have the flexibility to delay receiving it in exchange for a higher monthly amount at a later date.
The number of working-age Canadians for every senior is decreasing** 6
The number of working-age Canadians per senior is decreasing, placing additional pressure on the OAS program.
5 4 3 2 1 0 1990
2012
2030
**Source: 9th Actuarial Report on the Old Age Security Program
For a free brochure or more information visit www.ServiceCanada.gc.ca/retirement or call 1 800 O-Canada (TTY 1-800-926-9105) *Subject to parliamentary approval
Keep up to the news. A subscription to The Valley Sentinel is only $1/week ! Call The Valley Sentinel at 250 566-4425
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 3
Local News
CBC analog transmissions to end July 31 in Valemount Daniel Betts Editor
T
he digital age is set to sweep aside the last bastions of the old television era. Across Canada CBC is putting an end to rural analog transmissions and Valemount, B.C. is no exception. On July 31, if your television still uses rabbit ears, Channel 12 will be blank and the only way to watch CBC in or around Valemount will be by satellite. During a recent VCTV board meeting five options were presented in regard to changing over from analog to digital. It was also revealed Bell Canada is now preparing to hook up a fibre optic cable to Vancouver within the next couple of months. While the board is entertaining the possibility of taking over the analog transmitter, according to Mike Austin, VCTV Manager, there are a number of issues that complicate this idea. Firstly the equipment at the transmitter is very old and secondly the manufacturer of the equipment no longer makes replacement components for the system. There is also an issue with how the transmitter is powered, which complicates the idea of moving it to the VCTV compound, while leaving the transmitter where it is would incur a high rental charge. Even if the board decides to pick up the transmitter they would still have to transmit a digital signal. “We could re-convert it [the signal] to analog but that doesn’t make much sense,” said Austin. “I think the board is very interested in keeping CBC and one way or the other we are looking at options to take it ourselves.” The VCTV board is considering many factors and will need more consultations before making a decision. They have received a quote on a partial digital transmitter conversion. Austin noted many broadcasters have been digital for 10 years. The board is hoping there will be a decision within a month. In the meantime, valley residents using old analog antennae will find their technology to be obsolete in three months and should consider upgrading to digital services.
“CBC Analog transmitter”
Above: Several components on the Telus communication tower perched above Valemount currently broadcast an analog signal which will cease transmission on July 31. Photo by Mike Austin
73% of teachers vote to adopt resistance strategy on Bill 22 Submitted To The Valley Sentinel
A
decisive 73 per cent of teachers have voted in favour of a resistance strategy to oppose Bill 22, the controversial Education Improvement Act. In a province-wide vote conducted April 17– 19, 2012, a total of 21,625 teachers voted yes and 7,846 voted no. BCTF President Susan Lambert characterized the result as a strong vote of confidence in the action plan crafted by delegates to the BCTF’s Annual General Meeting in March. “This vote sends a powerful message to government that they must rethink Bill 22, listen to the concerns of teachers, respect our rights, and invest in services to students,” Lambert said. “Teachers are united in opposition to this terrible piece of legislation, the twentieth bill passed by the BC Liberals since 2001 targeting teachers’ professional and labour rights. We simply have to take a strong stand.” Lambert noted that Bill 22 virtually wipes out class-size and composition limits. Coming into a school year when public education will face a $100 million funding short fall, learning condi-
tions will undoubtedly suffer. “How can anyone teach to individual student needs under such conditions?” she asked. Lambert acknowledged that the vote was emotional for teachers because the decision to withdraw from extra-curricular activities is so wrenching. “Teachers struggle with this because these activities bring so much joy to our engagement with students. We know this will mean the loss of some highly valued activities, and we sincerely regret that. But we have to look at the bigger picture and the longer term,” she said. The plan also calls for other actions including: mounting a public awareness campaign to educate British Columbians about the impact of Bill 22 and to mobilize opposition to it; the possibility of another future vote on a full withdrawal of services; and working in advance of the May 2013 election to bring in a new government that will repeal Bill 22. Lambert said that one of the most corrosive elements of Bill 22 for teachers is its mock mediation process. “It adds insult to injury by requiring teachers to be complicit in the stripping of basic rights and protections in our collective agreement,” Lambert said.
The Fitzhugh joins newspaper family
The BCTF has made application to the Labour Relations Board to quash the appointment of Dr. Charles Jago as mediator due to clear apprehension of bias. The teachers are awaiting a ruling on a government challenge of the LRB’s jurisdiction before a decision can be made on the substance of the complaint.
Paul Zotek - Card of Thanks Nancy Zotek and family would like to extend our deepest appreciation to relatives, friends, and neighbors for their loving care and support during the passing of Paul Zotek of Valemount, B.C. age 94. Your prayers, cards, floral tributes, and memorial donations brought great comfort during this difficult time. A special thank-you to Dee McEachern for the heart-felt service; as well as the volunteers from the United/Anglican Church for their help at the hall. Paul will be forever loved and truly missed by all who knew him. Nancy, Susan, Linda, Ken and Families.
Daniel Betts Editor
O
n Friday, April 20, The Fitzhugh newspaper in Jasper, Alta. was purchased by veteran newspaper owner Robert W. Doull of The Valley Sentinel. The Fitzhugh remains an independent newspaper under local management, retaining its artistic individuality and professional award-winning personality. Readers of both publications will not notice a significant difference in format. Doull strongly believes community newspapers require talented local managers and journalists who reflect the individuality of their community. He encourages each newspaper to grow and evolve independently at the local level with complete artistic and editorial freedom. The Fitzhugh joins a family of independent newspapers in our region, which includes the Prince George Free Press, the Northeast News, Kamloops
This Week, The Columbia Valley Pioneer and The Valley Sentinel, creating a supportive resource pool for each organization to utilize. This friendly professional network extends the voice of each community and increases business exposure in each market. This year, much as The Valley Sentinel is a finalist for Canadian Community Newspaper Association (CCNA) General Excellence awards in its respective circulation category, The Fitzhugh has also been nominated for a General Excellence award for “Best All-Round Newspaper.” Robson Fletcher, the editor of The Fitzhugh is also nominated for “Best Local Editorial” and “Best Photo Essay” awards. Canadian Community Newspaper Awards celebrate the very best in community publishing from across the country. Newspapers compete against other newspapers in similar circulation classes and are judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts.
Advantage Insurance Services Ltd.
Your best insurance is an insurance broker 433 Main St, McBride, BC
1.888.611.5557
4 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
OPINION
Serving the Robson Valley since 1986
Reach The Valley Sentinel at: 250.566.4425 or 1.800.226.2129 • Email: editor@thevalleysentinel.com • Fax: 250.566.4528
» VIEWPOINT
» DAVE MARCHANT
Daniel Betts editor@thevalleysentinel.com
Dirty laundry
I
am told, the talk of the village is the closure of Valemount’s only laundry mat, and why shouldn’t it be? For some people I’m sure the news comes as an unmitigated disaster. Besides another empty storefront with the ominous words “Closed Permanently” hung on the door, Valemount is now missing an understated essential service. There have been many times in my life when the only way to get my clothes clean was to visit the local laundry mat. Thinking back I don’t think I ever worried about not being able to clean my clothes, I’ve always just assumed such facilities were available, much like any essential service, such as banks, grocery stores, restaurants or gas stations. Even if dirty clothes are taken care of by in-home conveniences the laundry mat was still needed to clean those big comforters or quilts. When I heard about the closure of our laundry mat I had a disturbing vision of people gathering along the shore of Swift Creek, frantically beating their laundry against rocks and using oldfashioned laundry boards. Or worse, residents wearing pit-stained shirts and soiled garments keeping their distance from one another while yelling at each other from across the street in order to avoid the uncomfortable smell. I’m kidding of course. Necessity is the mother of invention and I realize residents will find a way to clean their clothes, whether through the notorious generosity of friends and neighbours, a laundry trip to a neighbouring town or the purchase of necessary appliances. After all, McBride has been without a laundry mat for a number of years and somehow their clothes get clean. Although the situation does present an interesting opportunity of public protest for the outrageous rents being demanded in Valemount. I know real estate owners have legitimate reasons why they must demand high rents and they can’t be expected to simply give away space, but it is still aggravating to see yet another local business close its doors. Unfortunately with high taxes, a shrinking economic base and the tightening of budgets the ugly reality is the closure of some businesses. The purpose of business is to make profit, but many businesses in the valley simply break even or worse. Business owners cannot be expected to continue operating an unsuccessful business, no matter how essential it is. If a market no longer exists or interest is not significant enough to generate revenue a business owner is right to re-evaluate their enterprise. We all need money for the necessities of life, but if we plan to retire, want a better car or even a house we need more than to simply survive. Closing a business is a perfectly responsible business decision. We can’t really fault business owners in this regard, no matter how much their service will be missed. We can only hope the hard work of area residents to remedy our economic plight will soon be realized and lost services will one day return.
Dear Editor: The Cultivating Community Conference: Gardening Together in the Robson Valley was a huge success. A heartfelt thank you to the following people and groups who made this wonderful event happen: • The Community Learning Task Group for their engagement, willingness and commitment to volunteer - Pete Amyoony, Naomi Hooks, Lorna Folland, Dorothy Simpson, Al Birnie, Naomi Balla-Boudreau, Rick Thompson, Clifford Ferguson, Marion Cousineau, Susanne Mazereeuw, Bridget Uhl, Penny Rivard and Nancy Taylor. • Our funders - Decoda Literacy Solutions, Robson Valley Support Society, The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and The McBride Community Forest. • The McBride Evangelical Free Church community for a warm welcome to a perfect venue. • The Elks and Royal Purple for a delicious lunch and refreshments throughout the day. • Our out-of-town guest speakers, Ursula, Don and Jovanka who inspired us to create a community garden. • All the local gardening experts who shared their knowledge and enthusiasm in the workshops - Pete Amyoony, Deb Cochrane, Pen-
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012
Publisher Production Manager publisher@thevalleysentinel.com
dAniel BettS
editor editor@thevalleysentinel.com
Robson Valley.......................$52 + HST British Columbia.................$62 + HST Outside B.C..........................$72 + HST Outside Canada......$72 + HST + postage We publish every Wednesday. Advertising booking deadline is Thursday 5pm.
Cultivating Community Conference gratitude
AndreA Scholz
SuBScriptionS:
To subscribe or renew your subscription, send a cheque or money order and your mailing address to us by mail or email: ads@thevalleysentinel.com
» MAILBAG
AdvertiSing
ads@thevalleysentinel.com office: drop Box: MAin: eMAil:
• • •
• • •
ny Rivard, Karen Shaw, Stefi McLean, Sarah Marsh and Dorothy Simpson. Matthew Wheeler, Astrid Frazier and Larry Stamm for the photos and video coverage. Our local media for extensive coverage before and after the event Home Hardware, Balsam Biodynamics, Seedy Pete Amyoony, The McBride and District Public Library, The McBride Community Market and the Robson Valley Growers for their displays that contributed so much to the ambiance of the day. All the folks who donated door prizes - joy in abundance! The Mayor and Council of McBride for your continuing support for a Community Garden in McBride Last, but definitely not least, the conference participants of all ages, from all walks of life, who provided such positive feedback and ideas for a community garden project.
The seeds for a community garden in McBride have been planted and are germinating. If you are interested in digging in call Nancy at (250) 569 2266 or (250) 968 4358 to get your name on the list of community gardeners. Nancy Taylor - McBride, B.C.
SylviA grigAt
office assistant
deAnnA Mickelow sales rePresentative
contriButorS: birgit stutz, donalda beeson, aMber stayer, Jennifer Meagher, Marie birkbeck, & astrid frazier
1012 Commercial Drive, Box 688, Valemount, British Columbia, V0E 2Z0 McBride Stedman’s, 377 Main St., McBride, British Columbia 250.566.4425 toll free: 1.800.226.2129 fAx: 250.566.4528 ads@thevalleysentinel.com weB: www.thevalleysentinel.com
All material published in The Valley Sentinel; editorial content, photographs and advertising, is copyright to The Valley Sentinel and may not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the express permission of the Publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing costs.
Member CCNA
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 5
OPINION » MAILBAG
F-35 purchase reckless spending Dear Editor: When undertaking the most expensive military procurement ever, respect for hard-earned taxpayer dollars should be priority number one. But when it comes to the costs of the F-35 stealth fighter jets, Cathy McLeod and the Conservative Party failed to be up front with Canadians. But the recent Auditor General’s report has shredded the Conservatives’ deception about the project: Stephen Harper low-balled Canadians on the project’s total cost. The report confirms the government knew the F-35 would cost $25 billion, but told Canadians $15 billion—$10 billion less. That’s a $10 billion mismanagement of your money. Nearly two years ago, the Liberals first raised a red flag about these concerns— only to meet with Conservative denials and deception. Mrs. McLeod and the Conservative Party must stop being reckless with your tax dollars. Canada should hold an open competition to secure the planes our troops need at the right price. Yours sincerely, John McKay, Defence Critic, Liberal Party of Canada
Setting the record straight Dear Editor: Thank you for the opportunity to set the record straight regarding the Auditor General’s Report on the purchase of F-35 joint strike fighter aircraft. The Liberal party is claiming that the government understated the costs of buying the F-35s. This is simply not true. The Department of National Defence released its full estimated costs of buying 65 F-35s at $14.7 billion over 20 years. This represents less than $1 billion dollars per year of our annual federal operating budget of $250 billion. The Auditor General has said that we should have additionally provided operating costs such as jet fuel, pilot salaries, etc. that are incurred currently with the CF-18s and would exist with any aircraft purchased by Canada. The Government has accepted the Auditor General’s conclusions and will include these figures going forward. We have subsequently frozen the funding for the acquisition and are establishing a separate secretariat to lead this project forward. I want to reassure everyone that the Auditor General confirmed that his audit found no money was misappropriated or misspent. As we move forward, our government remains committed to ensuring that the Royal Canadian Air Force has the aircraft it needs to do the job we ask of it both domestically and abroad. Sincerely, Cathy McLeod, MP for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo
Vulnerable women can be made safer Dear Editor: It is time for the people of British Columbia to lend their voices on how our most vulnerable women can be made safer. Along with the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry hearings, we are set to hold a series of six important Public Policy Forums as a component of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry Study Commission. These forums will be held in downtown Vancouver from May 1 to May 10, 2012 and will focus on how to improve the safety and security of vulnerable women. More information can be found by going to the Commission’s website at www.missingwomeninquiry.ca. The Public Policy Forums need the input, feedback and ideas of the people of British Columbia. While the information gathered in these forums is not considered evidence relevant to the testimony put forward in the hearings, your input will provide me with proposals for change and related contextual information that will help to inform the writing of my report. We need to hear from you—as mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles and friends. We need to hear from you as a Valemount person, as a fellow human being, as someone who Learning cares about improving the safety and security of vulCentre nerable women who are still at risk today. We need 250-566-4601 you to tell us what you feel needs to be addressed, improved upon and changed—so a report can be produced that has practical, effective recommendaLOCAL JOB
LOCAL JOB POSTINGS POSTINGS
Thank you neighbours Dear Editor: I am a resident of Cranberry Place in Valemount and I was delighted last week to see about a dozen adults, all with grass rakes and doing a great clean up in my yard. All were my close neighbours and I am most grateful to them for their help. This was all arranged by Jasmine and Brendan Taylor who brought along his dump truck, which he uses in his tree removal business. He loaded up all the rakings and hauled it away. We then attended a fun delicious and satisfying chili supper in their backyard. How can one express their appreciation for such great neighbours? THANK YOU so much, guys and gals! It was warmly appreciated. Aleda Bain – Valemount, B.C.
W
Sentinel Letter Policy
e welcome Letters to the Editor on all subjects. We do not publish anonymous letters, so please include your name and contact information so that we can verify that you wrote the letter. All letters are the opinion of the writer and not The Valley Sentinel. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with current standards of public taste.
S
ubmit your letter to the editor by emailing it to editor@thevalleysentinel.com or drop by The Valley Sentinel office in Valemount.
tions that can be implemented in the real world that we live in. While space is limited at the Public Policy Forums in Vancouver, there are many additional ways to participate. The forums will be live streamed via our website at www.missingwomeninquiry.ca. You can provide your feedback via email at participate@missingwomeninquiry.ca or send a letter to us at #1402 – 808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2. We are asking the good people of British Columbia to stand up and tell us what you believe needs to be done to help save the lives of vulnerable women at extreme risk. Regards, Wally Oppal, Q.C., Commissioner - Missing Women Commission of Inquiry
Looking for work? We can help. Get the training and support you need to find and keep a job in B.C. Job search resources • Personal employment planning • Workshops and training • Specialized services
Updated April 25, 2012 Updated April 25, 2012
Banquet Servers Bartender Bartender/Server Casual Work (newspaper) Club House Worker Cook/Chef Counter Sales Clerk Engineering Heavy Duty/ Field Mechanic Front Desk Guest Service Agent Housekeepers Light Cleaner Maintenance Person Night Audit Part time Banquet Servers Red Cross Swimming Instructor Servers/Bartenders Server Studio Assistant Track Maintainer Traffic Control Person
Front desk staff can give you
detailed about each of these We areinformation here to help. Please postings, including info on how to call or drop in. For more submit your application for these job information opportunities. on these jobs or other employment assistance Valemount Centre services visit Learning us at Regency Valemount BC Place 1201-Box 5th789 Ave, Valemount.
V0E 2Z0
www.valemountlearningcentre.org
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES CENTRES The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
Locations across B.C. Visit one near you. WorkBCCentres.ca 1.800.663.7867 TDD: 1.800.661.8773
The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
6 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
COMMUNITY EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS
Valemount MMA Club Classes began April 23, 2012 Available classes are: Tai Kwan DO all levels and self defense on Mondays and Wednesdays 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Cardio Kick Boxing Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Kids classes on Mondays and Wednesdays 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. All times are subject to change. Bring water and wear gym gear. Contact Simon at (250) 566 1287 for more info David MArchant Art Show April 16 to May 31 @ McBride Museum/Library Everyone is invited to attend the opening reception and artist’s talk on Friday April 20, 2012 @ 7pm McBride Roundhouse Theatre Presents The Jesse Peters Trio Wednesday, April 25 @ 7:30pm Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. tickets are available at the McBride Stedmans VALEMOUNT CRIMESTOPPERS BBQ Saturday, April 28 at the Valemount IGA From 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Get a burger or hot dog,
ONGOING EVENTS
plus a soft drink and a bag of chips for $3.00
Legion Branch #266 2nd annual chili cook-off Saturday, April 28 Come out and show off your chili making skills! 11 a.m. set-up, 4 p.m. judging, and 5 p.m. awards. Entry fee is $40/team. For registration packages or more information contact Pete at (250) 566 9945 or email him at petep1@telus.net Dunster Community Association Spring Meeting at the dunster community hall Tuesday, May 1 from 7-9 p.m. Call Lelani Arris at 250-968-4401 with agenda items. Valemount Elementary school pac presents Missoula CHildrens Theatre performance of the pied piper Friday, May 4 at 7 p.m. & Saturday May 5 at 2 p.m. Show at Valemount Secondary School Theatre. Advance tickets available at Valemount Elementary School & Infinity Office and Health.
McBride JobFest 2012
The McBride JobFest, which was to be held on Sunday, April 22, 2012 will now be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 in McBride, B.C..
McBride: Missoula CHildrens Theatre performance of the Tortoise and the Hare Friday, May 4 at 6 p.m. & Saturday May 5 at 1 p.m. Show at Roundhouse Theatre at the McBride Secondary School. Brought to you by CES, CES PAC and the Royal Elks and Purple. TETE JAUNE COMMUNITY HALL YARD SALE May 5 from 10a.m. to 2 p.m. Concession, table rentals $10, donations welcome, call 566-9706. Everyone welcome! Scrabble’s on @ the mcbride & district public library May 5 at 2:30 p.m. All interests welcome! Skype Legal Clinic @ the McBride & District Public library May 8 at 7:30 p.m. Offering 15 minute sessions of free legal advice via skype on a first-come, first serve basis. Call (250) 569 2411 with questions. Chess Tourney @ the McBride & District Public Library May 12 at 2 p.m. Challenge friends and neighbours for the chess championship! All ages, all levels.
Valemount MONDAYS: • VALEMOUNT SENIORS Carpet Bowling 9 a.m. Golden Years Lodge • Royal Canadian Legion General meetings every 3rd Mon. of month 7:30 p.m. in Legion. • PLAY AND LEARN 10 a.m. until noon at Pepe’s Restaurant tuesdays: • valemount mma club upstairs at The Trading Post. Co-ed from 7-8:30 p.m. • Valemount Children’s Activity Centre Board Meeting 1st Tuesday of the month - 7 p.m. @ the Centre beneath the Community Hall (the red door). • adult recreational vollEyball 7-9 p.m. Valemount Sec. School gym. Contact Suzanne Bloodoff @ 250 566-9979 • Council Meeting 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 p.m., council chambers. Everyone welcome. • Ladies Auxiliary #266 Legion Meetings 1st Tuesday of every month 3 p.m. in Valemount Legion. WEDNESDAYS: • Public Library Board Meeting Every 2nd Wed. 5 p.m. Downstairs at the library. • valemount seniors music night 7-9 p.m. Golden Years Lodge • TOASTMASTERS meets every 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month. 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Best Western. THURSDAYS: • Adult Recreation Badminton. 7-9 p.m. in the Valemount Sec. School gym. Contact Betty @250 566-4656 • CHAMPS Weight loss Support Team for men and women. Thurs. 6:00 p.m. Downstairs Valemount Clinic. Shirley 566-9829, Dolly 566-8458. • Chamber of Commerce Quarterly General Meetings 3rd Thurs. of January, April, July and October @ 4:45 p.m. Location TBA • Saddle & Wagon Club Meeting 3rd Thurs. 7 p.m. 566-9707 • VALEMOUNT SENIORS SOCIAL CLUB. Regular meetings first Thurs. of every month at 7 p.m. downstairs lounge at Golden Years Lodge. FRIDAYS: • valemount mma club upstairs at The Trading Post. Co-ed from 7-8:30 p.m. • VALEMOUNT LEGION Friday Night dinners starting at 5 p.m. • ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Friday evenings at 8 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Catholic Church basement SATURDAYS: • valemount mma club upstairs at The Trading Post. Open Mat from 9-11 a.m. by appointment only. • Valemount circle dance. For more info please contact 250 566-1782
SUNDAYS: • valemount mma club upstairs at The Trading Post. Kids class from 6-7 p.m.
Tete Jaune •
Tete Jaune Community Club meetings held the 1st Tues. of the month at 7 p.m. at the Tete Jaune Hall.
McBride • Mcbride community forest Open quarterly meetings on the first Wednesday of the month on January 4, April 4, July 4, and October 3. McBride Village Council Chambers 7 p.m. tuesdays: • TOPS Tues. 6:45 p.m. weigh-in, 7:15 p.m. meeting. Health Unit in McBride. New members welcome. Brenda Molendyk 569-3113 • Village Council Meeting 2nd & 4th Tues.,7:30 p.m., Village Council Chambers. • Alcoholics Anonymous Every Tuesday, 8 p.m. at the Health Unit. • STORYTIME at the McBride & District Public Library 10:30 a.m. WEDNESDAYS: • Free Drop in Community Volleyball from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the McBride Secondary School • KIDZ KRAFTS 2:30-3:30 p.m. AT ODDS AND ENDS • Diabetes Support Group 1st Wed., 1 p.m. at Beaverview Lodge Sat. 10 a.m. -12 p.m., 441 Dominion St. • Support Group For Families Dealing With Mental Health Problems Last Wed every month 7:30 p.m. @ McBride Health Centre. More info call Norma 569-2637 or Elizabeth 968-4347 • Valley Piecemakers Quilt Guild Every other Wednesday. 7:00 p.m. in the High School. New members welcome, contact Dawna Hickerty 569-3210. • LEGION AUXILIARY BINGO First and Third Wednesday of the month at McBride Library. THURSDAYS: • OAPO Stitch & Knit Every Thurs., 2:30 - 4 p.m., Beaverview Lodge, Hilda Murin 569-3305 • Free dance lessons at 7 p.m. at the Elks Hall SATURDAYS: • WRITERS’ CIRCLE at 1 p.m. Alternates between Dunster Fine Arts School & McBride Library. All Welcome. Contact 569 2411/ library@mcbridebc.org for more info.
Peter Reimer Notary Public
250-566-4464
Real Estate & Mortgages Wills, Contracts & Affidavits
1222 5th Avenue, Valemount Cell: 250-318-8808 • notary@vis.bc.ca
1222 5th Ave. Valemount, B.C. Phone: 250-566-4464 • Fax: 250-566-4271 Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. After hours by arrangement
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 7
COMMUNITY
Lineup for Valemountain Days 2012 Marie Birkbeck Contributor
M
ark June 22, 23, & 24 on your calendar and prepare to help celebrate Valemountain Days as it returns to its original format. As a lead in to Valemount’s 50th Anniversary of incorporation, the theme for this year’s celebration is “50 years!” The real anniversary party organized by the village will be held later in the fall. Partnering with Tourism Valemount and incorporating some of the Spring Fest activities, the Valemountain Days Committee envisions a fun-filled weekend with something for everyone! A lot of activities are planned, and many more are in the works! Some are already confirmed; others are still just ideas we are working on. The kick off to the weekend will begin on Friday evening on 5th Ave. between Dogwood and Cedar with street games for the kids, a teddy bear clinic, face painting, a BBQ, and hopefully even a side walk sale and a street dance! The parade on Saturday morning is proposed to begin at the Valemount Public Library, proceed west on 5th Ave. to the Petro Canada, down Karas Drive and end in the sports grounds where ribbons will be awarded to the winning entries. Parade Marshall Sarah Keatley is encouraging everyone to start thinking about getting a float or an entry for the parade. With the exception of the ATV ride up Westridge loop and the evening dance in the Curling rink, all of the weekends activities will be on the sports grounds, in the arena and in the Community Hall. Confirmed to date is a full concession, cotton candy, Rocky Mountain Ice Cream,
bingo, Quilters Guild show and tea, kids games, tailgate/garage sale, beer garden & karaoke, and Saturday night steak dinner. Sunday will feature a pancake breakfast, the ever popular logger events, bingo & the Mile 53 hike to the old Tete-Jaune town site. Working on, but not confirmed yet: kid’s jumpy tents, dunk tank, slo-pitch, horseshoes, scavenger hunt, and watermelon eating contest. Have we missed anything? We are also hoping to get a variety of demonstrations on the grounds for Saturday, including but not limited to Mixed Martial Arts, gymnastics, remote helicopters, fire trucks; so far these are only suggestions, nothing has been confirmed yet. One of the most exciting happenings for Valemountain Days 2012 is the creation of a time capsule to help Valemount celebrate 50 years as a village. What do you think should go in a time capsule? From now until June 22 we will be accepting suggestions as to what we could or should put in a time capsule. Collections of actual items will commence June 22. After Valemountain Days is over, we will be handing the capsule over to the village for safe keeping for the next 25 years. The organizing committee will be contacting the numerous groups and organizations in the next couple of days for input and help with running booths, games or other events. If you have any ideas or suggestions, or just want to help, please contact the committee, or message us on our Facebook page! The group is currently meeting every second Tuesday and are open to anyone who wants to attend. The next meeting is Tuesday, May 1 at 7 p.m. at Jailhouse Bed & Breakfast.
Minor Hockey Association ready to “DAZZLE” valley residents
“Aloha!”
Above: On Saturday, September 21, Sharon Johnson and Sean Reichert won the “Most Hawaiian Couple” award at the 25th Annual Ducks Unlimited Banquet held in McBride, B.C. at the community hall. To all who attended the event and made it a big success, Mahalo! Photo by Andrea Scholz
Valemount Pines Golf Course OPENED for the Season Hours 8AM to 7PM
1km North of Valemount on Hwy 5
250-566-4550
Daniel Betts Editor
S
omething magical is happening this weekend thanks to the McBride and Valemount Minor Hockey Association. At 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 29 at the McBride Community Hall, valley residents will be treated to “AbracaDAZZLE!” This fundraising event to support valley minor hockey features star illusionist, John Kaplan, who has been performing across Canada since 1980. Kaplan will be presenting a dynamic 90-minute stage show which promises his audience an original blend of magic and comedy with contemporary music, dance and special effects; a must see theatrical experience that will thrill the whole family. Incredible illusions are mixed with side-splitting audience participation in a spellbinding program of fun. The doors open at 3:15 p.m. and residents are encouraged to come early to participate in a fun raffle to further help support the McBride and Valemount Minor Hockey Association. This past minor hockey season was a wonderful success with the McBride and Valemount teams combining to become a force to be reckoned with. Help support this fantastic program and at the same time step into a world of wonder and mystery. Gasp with astonishment and roll in the aisles with laughter at this dazzling experience you’ll be talking about long after the show.
The Valemount Museum is looking for a motivated and creative individual for the position as Museum Assistant. The successful candidate must be a full-time secondary or postsecondary student between the ages of 16 and 30 years, who plans to return to school and is legally entitled to work in Canada. Duties for the Museum Assistant include assisting with new exhibits, history and guided tours and with the planning and organizing of summer events at the museum. The applicant must have basic computer skills, proficiency in English, social skills with visitors and interest in history. The candidate must have experience working with a PC computer and be computerliterate. (Prefer prior experience working with Photoshop, online databases, and scanning processes and procedures) . This position is 35 hours/week and runs from mid May until the end of August 2012. Wage is $12 per hour. This position is dependent on grant funding.
Save $4 compared to the door price by getting your tickets early at Infinity in Valemount, B.C., Stedman’s in McBride, B.C. and at the Dunster General Store. $8 for students 12 and under and $10 for adults. For more information contact Kristine Drader at (250) 569 0025 or Carl Foreman at (250) 566 9176.
Sentinel Historical Spotlight “Speeder” Woman and Child on Speeder (Could be Bertha and Bud Cole). Valemount Museum & Archives # 997.09.110 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel From the Valemount Museum and Archives/ ©Valemount and Area Museum.
Funding for this summer employment position is through Young Canada Works. Women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities and aboriginals are especially encouraged to apply. All applications will be given due consideration. For a full job description and skills, please check with the Valemount Learning Centre or email the museum. Submit your resume by emailing: administrator@valemountmusuem.ca (Subject: Application for Museum Assistant) or by mail to: Valemount Museum, P.O. Box 850, Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0 or by Fax 1-250-566-4244 Deadline for application: May 04, 2012.
Valemount Gun Club A.G.M. Wednesday, May 2, 2012 7:00 p.m.
Downstairs at the Valemount Public Library, More info call Paul 250 566-9154
8 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
COMMUNITY
Floyd Caywood remembered Birgit Stutz Contributor
T
he Robson Valley not only lost a colourful resident on April 8, but also its oldest valley resident. Dunster resident Floyd Caywood passed away at the McBride and District Hospital on Easter Sunday. He was less than two months away from his 99th birthday. Caywood was born on June 1, 1913 in Cañon City, Colorado. He had two half-brothers, with Caywood being the youngest. Caywood’s dad had lived all over the United States, and later moved to Jefferson, Oregon to farm. In 1958, after farming in Oregon for a few years, Caywood saw an ad from Canadian National in an American newspaper looking for settlers along the Skeena Line. CN offered each settler a free boxcar to bring up their farm equipment. At that time, Caywood was looking for good farmland that he didn’t have to irrigate, so he jumped at the idea. “He got here by train in November 1958 and it was 30 below,” said Caywood’s daughter Bonnie Culp, adding he brought a tractor, a plow and all his other equipment with him. “He bought 180 acres of river bottom land, but only about 30 were cleared.” With a lot of hard work and the help of McBride resident Jack Long and some machinery, Caywood cleared more acres and took up hay and grain farming on the rich valley bottom soil. He also grew a garden. “When he first moved to the farm in Dunster, he lived in a granary,” said Bonnie. “He lived very simple.” Bonnie and her husband Curtis Culp moved from Oregon to Dunster in 1972 and added sheep to the farm. “We were not hippies or draft dodgers,” laughed Bonnie, adding Curtis was in the US Army in Japan. “We moved here to help dad with farming.” Son-in-law Curtis said Caywood was a character, colourful and very friendly. “Everybody that knows him has a story about him, and it’s usually a funny story,” said Curtis. “Once you got to know him, he was very outgoing. He was really smart and very well read up on everything. He could talk to anybody about anything.” “His mind could absorb so much stuff,” added Bonnie. “He had a real interest in so many things.” Curtis said one of Caywood’s funny characteristics was that he had pet names for almost everyone, people and animals. “He would call you by it, and not because he couldn’t remember your real name,” said Curtis. “All of his names made sense if you knew the person. The names were never insulting but usually very funny after you learned how he arrived at it, names such as blow fly, purple, horizontal, grass and pot, Jack the ripper, Jimmy no name, Mr. Myrtle, Frank Fish-peaches,
Let’s make one thing perfectly clear...
WATER
ROBSON VALLEY WATER TREATMENT Your new water treatment specialist! Installing systems that work *GUARANTEED* •
No more paying high prices for systems that just don’t work.
•
We eliminate staining, smelly water, hard water and high sodium.
•
Will provide you with unlimited bottled quality water at your own tap.
•
We fix & service existing systems.
•
12 years experience treating well water.
Call for a free in home water test Serving the entire Robson Valley and beyond Telephone: 250-566-9801 Fax 250-566-9803 or email: watersign.gt@gmail.com
Fang, baby baby, pancake, pork chop, shorty, German Lilly, China doll, statue, Mun Num Ah Num, The Dumplings, No Boob, Spookie, sunshine girl and pipefish. The Japanese called him FROID, which we all thought fit him! He also had names for animals, Lucy goose, grog, feist, dirty rotten stinking dog, Simple Simon, the wild goose. Simon got his name because he would not go under the gate like the tame ones. Simon would honk until Floyd came out and opened it for him.” Caywood was also a very “So long, Floyd” hospitable man, bringing Above: Ellen Goldsmith, Floyd Caywood’s daughter, arriving by train at Dunster with a picture home many young travel- done by McBride resident Matthew Wheeler. Photo by Curtis Culp lers he met on the train, many of them Japanese. Centre: Floyd Caywood and great-grandchild Jonathan Sparks “Kind of says it all, kids and wild“We are still in touch life trusted him,” said Curtis Culp Photo by Amy Sparks, grand-daughter with many of them,” said Curtis. “Some of them have come for a visit with their children years later.” Caywood also had a soft spot for animals and children. “He fed the birds almost every day,” said Curtis. “They would land on his hands. He really liked the chickadees. Squirrels would eat out of his hands. He had a way with animals. Animals and birds loved him. And kids just gravitated to him, just like animals.” Caywood was also very inventive, said Curtis. “He was watching the trains go by with all the empty grain cars coming back from Prince Rupert, so he sat down and drew out a grain car that could easily be converted to a lumber car on its way back east. The government was very interested in it, but before they could act on it, they were voted out. Floyd never wanted anything from them, that was the last thing he thought of.” Caywood spent the last 10 months at the McBride and District Hospital, which is a small amount of time compared to the long life he lived, said Bonnie. “He was a healthy man, apart from injuries,” she said. “He cracked his hip two years ago, but didn’t break it. He really had good bone density. He defied many nutritional ideas, but he did eat lots of fruit. He used olive oil for years and ate a banana every day. He smoked cigarettes until it went to $1 a pack, then he quit. He never brushed his teeth and never lost them until he was 96 years old.” Caywood would write his shopping lists on the back of any old piece of paper he could find, in typical Floyd short-form. “His shopping lists were hilarious,” said Bonnie, pulling out an old medical receipt with a shopping list on the back. “You had to interpret everything,” laughed Curtis. “Olive meant olive oil. He left out the “a” in bread because he didn’t think it was necessary.” Some of Caywood’s trademarks were his overalls, which he wore for almost every occasion, his VIA Rail cap and his eye patch, which Bonnie hand-made for him out of his old boots because he had a thyroid condition. Caywood loved the trains, said Bonnie. “He’s always had an interest in trains. He’s been all “98 years young” over North America by train, and over the years, he got to know the crews (along the Skeena Line). He always Above: Floyd Caywood’s 98th birthday last year, wearing a rode to Jasper on his birthday. The last few years, they VIA Rail sweater that a train engineer friend gave to him. Photo by Curtis Culp (the crew) gave him a ride in the panorama car, but he liked the riffraff cars better.” “He liked plain people,” added Curtis. daughter Kerry Hall brought Caywood’s ashes home For Caywood’s 90th birthday, the Culps had a big cel- from Vanderhoof by train. When local people heard ebration on the train. Caywood was coming on the VIA, a group of friends “We rented a bus to take people to Jasper and came and neighbours gathered at the Dunster train station back to Dunster by train,” recalls Curtis. to meet it, and in true Dunster fashion had a pot luck “The VIA crew had a big banner on the train. When in front of the Dunster store. we arrived at the Dunster station, we brought people Caywood is survived by his three children, daughdown to the farm with the hay wagon.” ters Bonnie Culp and Ellen Goldsmith, as well as a Caywood took his last train ride on April 12, when son, John Caywood, nine grand-children and 16 greatBonnie, her sister Ellen Goldsmith, and Bonnie’s grandchildren. RIP Floyd. You will be missed by many.
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 9
COMMUNITY
Valemount’s Future: Integrated Community Sustainability Plan Marie Birkbeck CONTRIBUTOR
T
he first meeting of the Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP) was held via videoconference on Wednesday, April 18 in the Village Council Chambers. Eighteen of the twenty-four locally appointed Community Sustainability Advisory Team (CSAT) were in attendance to hear facilitator Dan Wilson of Whistler Centre for Sustainability (The Centre) present an overview of ICSP for Valemount. The Centre provides innovative community sustainability planning services focusing on small to medium sized communities and specializing in those with a tourism-based economy or a tourism focus and has successfully created ICSP for several communities across British Columbia including Whistler, Williams Lake, Kimberly, Invermere and Osoyoos, to name a few. An ICSP is essentially a long-term strategic plan that articulates the community’s shared vision for a successful and sustainable future. It includes the actions and the practical tools for implementation and a system for monitoring the progress. ICSPs emphasize long-term thinking, collaboration between community residents and stakeholders, creating partnerships and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. An ICSP is as much a process as it is a plan. The Centre has developed a Quick Start ICSP that quickly and effectively delivers an ICSP to get the community started on the journey to success and sustainability. The QuickStart process follows these basic steps: • Create a shared vision of the community’s desired future • Describe where the community is currently at with regards to the vision • Determine actions that can be implemented to move the community forward • Get commitment by organizations to consider the actions for implementation • Develop a monitoring system that can measure and track progress • Ensure that the ICSP is embedded into daily decision making
In Valemount the QuickStart is an eight month process, beginning in April and winding up in November. The first public input sessions are Friday April 27, and Saturday April 28. Friday morning there will two one and a half hour focus group meetings (9:00 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.) consisting of community members representing business owners, seniors, parents with young children, First Nations, Ethnic minority groups, youth and other interest groups. Here they have the opportunity to have deeper input into priorities and desired outcome. If you are interested in participating on the focus group please contact Silvio at (250)566 4435. Friday evening’s session, from 7 – 9 p.m., is an introduction to ICSP and an opportunity for locals to share what we love about our town. Two workshops will run on Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. giving residents the chance to provide input into what our community shared vision will look like. All meetings will be held in The Community Hall. By the end of the weekend residents and stakeholders will; • have opportunities for involvement • have provided input, • be keen to continue contributing, • have a good understanding of Valemount’s future, how it will be developed and used, • understand why success and sustainability go hand in hand. As the advisory committee, CSAT will work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure that public concerns and aspirations are consistently understood and considered, and in turn provide feedback to the respective organizations they represent. CSAT will meet about once a month, mostly via video-conferencing, with another public meeting being scheduled for early July, and again close to completion of the project. If you are passionate and interested in the sustainability of Valemount, plan to attend the public meetings this weekend, and be sure to let your CSAT members know what your vision and goals are for Valemount; it is only with everyone’s input that we can achieve our dreams!
Lion’s pride increases by one Submitted TO THE VALLEY SENTINEL
A
new Lions Club member, Rita Rewerts, was installed by past zone chairman, Rhoda Tamboline on Wednesday, April 18 at the Lion’s Hall. Rewerts’ daughter, Cherise Smith is her sponsor. Welcome Rita! Deadline for “Gift of Sight 2012” collection of used eyeglasses is April 30. Please contact Rhoda
CROOKED CREEK FLOWERS & GREENHOUSES 3260 Crooked Creek Road • Valemount, BC
OPENING MAY 1st
WE HAVE Mr. Fothergill’s Flowers & Vegetable Seeds
Tamboline at (250) 566 9797. Coming-up projects: • Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast on May 13 • Lion’s 42nd Anniversary Charter Night in June (Day and time TBA) • Lion’s “Sports Day Barbeque Steaks” June 22 Valemount Lions would like to thank all the community for their support towards our contribution to Prince George Easter Seal House. Thank You!
READY TO GO Bedding Plants • Basket Stuffers • Hanging Flower & Vegetable Baskets • Vegetables • Herbs • Seeds ARRIVING SOON Trees • Shrubs • Perennials Greenhouse Hours: Open Daily 9am - 5pm Phone: 566-9170 Fax: 566-9184
Tell usTell your for the of Valemount! us vision your vision forfuture the future of Valemount! Please help us create thecreate visionthe for vision a successful and sustainable Valemount. The VillageThe of Village of Please help us for a successful and sustainable Valemount. Valemount,Valemount, in cooperation with community partners, ispartners, embarking on Plan Valemount’s Future—our in cooperation with community is embarking on Plan Valemount’s Future—our Integrated Integrated CommunityCommunity Sustainability Planning (ICSP) process that will lead our community to a socially, Sustainability Planning (ICSP) process that will lead our community to a socially, economically, and environmentally sustainablesustainable future. economically, and environmentally future. The word “sustainability” has become a popular but it’s an important part of community The word “sustainability” has becomebuzzword, a popular buzzword, but it’s an important part of community planning. The development of a sustainable community—not only environmentally, but economically, planning. The development of a sustainable community—not only environmentally, but economically, socially andsocially culturally—is critical to Valemount’s long-term success andsuccess prosperity. and culturally—is critical to Valemount’s long-term and prosperity. Learn moreLearn about Planabout Valemount’s Future: www.valemount.ca/icsp and on Facebook. more Plan Valemount’s Future: www.valemount.ca/icsp and on Facebook. ParticipateParticipate now: The first opportunity for public input is through a 15 minute survey thatsurvey will bethat online now: The first opportunity for public input is through a 15 minute will be online until April 25. to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5Q7N9WR untilGoApril 25. Go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5Q7N9WR Save theseSave dates: these dates: Friday, April 27, 7:00 PM27, –9:00 Valemount CommunityCommunity Hall Friday, April 7:00PMPMat–9:00 PM at Valemount Hall Come learnCome aboutlearn Planabout Valemount’s Future andFuture share what you love our town Plan Valemount’s and share whatabout you love aboutinour town in preparation for the Saturday preparation for theworkshop. Saturday workshop.
“New Lions Club Member”
Above: On Wednesday, April 18, Rita Rewerts (left) was installed into the Lions Club by Past Zone Chairman, Rhoda Tamboline (centre) and sponsored by Cherise Smith (right), Rewert’s daughter. Photo submitted
April 28, 9:00 AM –12:30 and 12:00 PM–3:30 Valemount CommunityCommunity Hall April 28, 9:00 PM AM–12:30 PM and 12:00PMPMat–3:30 PM at Valemount Hall WorkshopsWorkshops to inform atosustainable and successful future for Valemount. inform a sustainable and successful future for Valemount. Come for the morning afternoon or stay for both sessions! Come for theormorning or –afternoon – or stay for both sessions! Light lunchLight provided noon. at noon. lunchatprovided Stay in touch: up forSign email StaySign in touch: upupdates for emailicsp@valemount.ca updates icsp@valemount.ca
We hopeWe you will you participate in building Valemount’s future! future! hope will participate in building Valemount’s
10 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
BUSINESS WATCH Wilde About All Things Tea Daniel Betts EDITOR
T
wo years ago Rachel Ondang and Tammy Wildeman were enjoying a tea in Banff, Alta. and recognized a common love. Both friends homeschool their children and were seeking a joint business venture that would work around their schedules and allow them to enjoy their families. Wilde Tea and Infusions was born and since that fateful day the duo have been travelling around, checking out teashops and trying different teas from diverse places. “We both love tea and we are always looking for a new tea or a better tea,” said Ondang. Important to both entrepreneurs is the origin of the teas they choose, making sure the companies that supply their teas take care of their workers. “Far too many tea companies choose profit first, and are either unaware or choose to ignore the plight of workers in these developing countries.” Wilde Tea and Infusions teashop will be opening in McBride, B.C. on May 4 and will be offering teas with some local flavour. “We are making some of our own blends. Our infusions are as locally done as possible. One of the things we are working on is making true wild blends using huckleberries right off the mountain,” said Ondang. When the teashop opens they will be offering loose leaf tea but will be adding more products as their business grows. They are also planning to soon open
“High tea in Banff, Alta.”
Above: Connor Wildeman (from left to right), Sabrina Ondang, Faalon Wildeman, Angelina Ondang, Faythe Wildeman, and Rosa Ondang. “This photo was taken in Banff April 2010 on our very first tea adventure!! We are in the Sir William Wallace Room at the Banff Springs Hotel having high tea,” says Rachel Ondang. Photo by Rachel Ondang
an online store. During their grand opening they will be serving all the free tea people want to drink. “They can try it and see what they think,” said Ondang. As Confucius stated, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” For both entrepreneurs tea is a sparking delight and joy for them “It’s been a true love that we have both worked on,” said Ondang. They look forward to sharing this incredible “journey of the senses” with you, over a cup.
Tai Kwan Do Self Defence and Cardio Kick Boxing Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR
L
“Master Bentley”
Above: Simon Bentley, 1st degree black belt in Tai Kwan Do prepares for the first class held at the MMA room on Monday, April 23. Photo by Andrea Scholz
ocal Valemountonian, RCMP member and all around good guy Simon Bentley is a 1st degree black belt in Tai Kwan Do and has been practicing since 2000. He has three and a half to four years of experience instructing and has recently begun offering classes in Valemount, B.C. through the Valemount Mixed Martial Arts Association. Intro to Tai Kwan Do (taekwondo) and Self Defence started last Monday and will be continuing every Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Cardio Kick Boxing also started Tuesday and will be continuing every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. You don’t have to register or commit, and drop-in is $2 per class. These classes are taking place upstairs of the Trading Post. For now they are open to everyone and all levels while he gauges the interest and turn out.
Traditional taekwondo is a Korean martial art established in the 1950s and 1960s by the South Korean military. It is also the national sport of South Korea. In Korean, tae means “to strike or break with foot”; kwon means “to strike or break with fist”; and do means “way”, “method”, or “path”. Thus, taekwondo may be loosely translated as “the way of the hand and the foot.” According to Wikipedia “it combines combat techniques, self-defense, sport, exercise, and in some cases meditation and philosophy. In 1989, Taekwondo was the world’s most popular martial art in terms of number of practitioners. Gyeorugi, a type of sparring, has been an Olympic event since 2000. Bentley says to bring water and wear comfy clothing. He will continue to offer the class until the time he leaves Valemount or people stop attending. His final message to those thinking of coming out was, “even old guys can do this.” Stay tuned for upcoming family orientated Olympic style tournaments.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY Returning Flow Acupuncture
Sands Bulk Sales LTD Husky Oil Limited
Wednesday & Friday in Valemount
845 Cedarside Rd. Valemount BC Phone: 250-566-4818 or 1-866-566-4818 Fax: 250-566-4815
Thursdays in McBride Micah Yoder, Registered Acupuncturist
Cardlock and bulk plant facility Fuel truck for all your delivery needs
Phone: 250-566-1782
WESTRIDGE plumbing & heating Greg McNee Insured & Reliable Seniors - show this ad & receive a 10% discount
Fir Timbers Available
Cell: 250 566 1687
Valley
Systems
Joel Steinberg P.O. Box 124, Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0 250-674-0017 joel_valleygeo@telus.net
sentinel THE VALLEY
YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR DIRECTORY FOR ONLY $12.50 PER WEEK. THE VALLEY Member SENTINEL CCNA
YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR NEWSPAPER CANADIAN
250-566-4425 COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012
BUSINESS DIRECTORY • • • •
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 11
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR DIRECTORY FOR ONLY $12.50 PER WEEK.
Automotive & Agricultural Tires Agricultural Parts and Service Small Engine Parts and Service Full Line of Quality Lubricants & Filters
* Large Selection of Bearings & V-belts In Stock * 100 Mountain View Road at Hwy.16, McBride
THE VALLEY SENTINEL
Shop Phone: 250 569-0075
Living in a small town? Tough to get leads for your business? Need training?
YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER
Learn how the top producers are making it in the industry.
Sales Service 250-566-1324 Installation 1-800-424-6331
ROCKO’S MUSIC Rex’s Recycling H o All Music Supplies available Assorted Blues Harps, Strings, Cords, Capos, Mikes, Stands, Chord Books, Song Books, & Local Cd’s
Rocko’s Music - 250-968-4335
Brown Rd. Dunster Just Past Vogels
ours of
peration
sunday - Monday Closed tuesday - Wednesday 1-5pM tHursday - friday - saturday 10aM - 5pM
Now o refu ffering n f bot d on a ull ll b *Pic tles eer a k up s ca nd c n be a arra ns ng ed
Call liz or KiM everard at 250.566.9111
reduCe • reuse • reCyCle
Smart Nuts Technology
Call for quote: 250-566-4425
www.networkmarketingtool.info
YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR NEWSPAPER
250-566-4425
CHURCH LISTINGS VALEMOUNT
GOOD SHEPHERD ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
3rd Ave & Elm St. Phone: 1 877 314-4897 Sunday 8:30am Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat9am, Wed & Fri 7pm
ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH
250 566-4797 7th & Cedar, Sunday
Worship 10:00 AM
Industrial Steam Cleaning & Pressure Washing N APA Automotive Parts & Repairs 1140 Main Street Phone: (250) 566-9774 Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Fax: (250) 566-9771
Self-Contained Mobile Unit serving the Robson Valley Glacier Ridge Services Ltd. Chris (250) 566-1046 or Ray (250)566-1578
a Ly tt le C
rtage
Proudly Serving Hwy 5 Since 1999
Servicing All Points Hwy. 5, Kamloops to Valemount. Hot Shot Flat Deck & Courier Units
1-877-372-1182 Depot at Infinity Office - 250-566-4225
Security Web A lArm SyStemS SECURITY WEB ALARM SYSTEMS 24 hr monitoring - 1.888.564.8585
www.securityweb.ca
MCBRIDE
Drywall ServiceS
“Free Down Payment Mortgages”
Boarding Taping Textured Ceilings
Call Todd At Wahoo Enterprises (250) 569-0320 “Serving The Robson Valley For Over 15 Years”
Mac’s Small Engine Service & Repair Closed Dec 8-Jan 8
• Lawn & gaRdEn • aTV’S • powER SawS • SnowMobILES
MORTGAGES
Pre-approvals • Purchases Refinances • Consolidations Rental Property Self Employed Mortgages New to Canada • Vacation Home
Debra Parker AMP Mortgage Consultant
P: 250-426-8211 ext 375 Cell: 250-421-7600 E: debra_parker@centum.ca
Looking out for your best Interest.
250 566-9996
ROCKO’S CHURCH
ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
Harry Carson 250.640.8412 Mike Dryden 250.566.1536 Harry Carson 1.888.564.8585 • Mike Dryden 250.566.1536
www.rusticluxury.com
VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Sun. 11:00 am Home group meeting at Rod & Deb Reimer’s - Brown Road, Dunster. 250 968-4335.
250-566-1536 888-564-8585 www.securityweb.ca
rusticluxury@telus.net
250 968-4349 or 250 566-4568 Sunday-11am, Sun. School 11am
DUNSTER
Harry Carson Mike Dryden Area.
250.566.4005 Office 250.566.1323 Cell Valemount
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES
homeAND andBUSINESS business HOME ALL all makes and MAKES AND MODELS Fire, flood, detection = models 24 hrsmoke, Monitoring Office in PG. = video survellance systems. Local Area Installer. • 24 hr Monitoring Office = Serving McBride, Dunster, in PG.installation Local technician. Robson Area. • Valemount, Local Area Mt Installer.
Serving McBride, Dunster, • Serving McBride, Dunster, www.securityweb.ca Valemount & Mt. Robson. Valemount, Mt Robson
Jen Applebaum
Sunday School 10am. Family Worship 10:30am. Prayer meeting Thurs 7pm
Worship Service on Sun 10:30am
Security Web Alarm Systems
Licensed Property Manager * Handyman Services * Design Consulting
NEW LIFE CENTRE
1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824
Call Mac Cochrane
250-968-4498
Delivering Fuel East to McBride
Vanderhoof & District Co-Operative Association
DRIVER SALES REPRESENTATIVE For Commercial and Farm Personal Contact Where High Level of Customer Service is JOB #1
Greg Belshaw
990 Railway Road Prince George 1-866-309-2667 Office: (250) 564-3488
Vanderhoof Office Office: (250) 567-4488 Fax: (250) 567-4490 Cell: (250) 565-8436
New in the Robson Valley:
HAUGK
HOME DESIGNS & RENOVATIONS Licenced Journeyman with over 30 years experience
Kitchen Bath Doors Windows Cabinets Floors Tiles Painting Insulation and more call Andreas @ 250 569 0004 / c: 981 0457 andreashaugk@shaw.ca
197 Dominion, 250 569-2606 Sun. Communion Service 11am
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH
Church 569.2378 or 569.8845 1st Ave
Worship Service on Sun 10:30am
ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH
441 Dominion St., 250 569.3206 or 250 569.3386. Worship/Kids church10:00am
SEVENTH - DAY ADVENTIST
Lamming Pit Road 250 569.3370 Sabbath School: Sat. 9:30 am, Worship Service Sat. 11am, Pathfinders Tues 7pm, Prayer Meeting Wed 7pm
MOUNTAIN CHAPEL (PAOC)
Church 569-3350 Office 569-6802 Sunday Worship 11:00am, Prayer Service Wed. 7 pm
MENNONITE CHURCH
Sun. Sch. 10am Sunday Services 11am, 7:30pm Wed
12 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
sentinel
Up to 20 words: $6 • Up to 25 words: $7 • Up to 30 words: $8+HST
THE VALLEY
Guaranteed to Sell $19.95+HST
CLASSIFIEDS
GTS for 20 words and $1 plus HST for each additional word. Offer valid for the following classified categories: Automotive, Campers/Motorhomes, Miscellaneous, Recreational Vehicles, Pets/Livestock, and Building Materials. This offer is valid for single item sales only. Your ad will run for up to three months after which you can choose to renew your ad.
Main: 250.566.4425 | Toll-free: 1.800.226.2129 | E-mail: classifieds@thevalleysentinel.com | Web: classifieds.thevalleysentinel.com AUTOMOBILES
GARAGE SALE
EMPLOYMENT
Accepting applications from Class #1 reliable, professional drivers. Send resume and abstract to: PO Box 525 McBride V0J 2E0 or confidential fax to: 250-569-0139
1991 Mitsubishi Delica Camping Van for sale. Diesel, 133,000 km, popup roof, good condition, new tires, right-hand driven, small sink and fridge. $5,800 phone 250 569-0004
D
Over 1,300 Medical Transcription graduates can’t be wrong. Loans and financing available. 1.800.466.1535 info@canscribe.com www.canscribe.com
L O S
Duties for Assistant Manager include joint summer staff management and supervision, planning summer events, publicity, retail gift shop and managing Collections and Archives. The applicant must have good computer skills, be organized, reliable and community-minded to work with other groups. The position runs 2-3 days from May through September 2012. Position starts immediately. Contract wage $16 per hour. For a full job description and skills, please check with the Valemount Learning Centre or email the museum. Submit your resume by emailing: administrator@valemountmuseum.ca (Subject: Application for Assistant Manager) or by mail to Valemount Museum, Box 850, Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 or by Fax 250-566-4244. Deadline for application: Tuesday, May 8, 2012.
Drivers required for the safe and courteous transportation of Railway Crews. Job is based out of BLUE RIVER. Clean abstract is required. This is a 24/7 on-call operation. Pay is a flatrate per trip, based on $15.00/hour. You will need a class 1, 2, or 4 driver’s licence. If you need to upgrade we may assist, some conditions apply. Retired and Semi-Retired more than welcome! To apply contact John Hollis either at John.Hollis@HallconCrewTransport.com or by fax to 780-468-4617. Work at Mount Robson Provincial Park
Campground Attendant/Fee Collector Fee collection • Firewood Sales • Public Relations & Park Security • Campground/Day Use minor maintenance Staff Qualifications: Exceptional People Skills & an Effective Communicator Work as an individual unsupervised & work as a team member A WCB Level 1 First Aid ticket or equivalent Class 5 BC Drivers Licence with a clean record(drivers abstract) Enjoy working outdoors in a park environment Must preform physical work Staff must be willing to: Work weekends/evenings Under go a criminal record check Willing to wear a uniform and maintain a neat appearance Length of Season: Early May to Early October Please send a resume and 3 references to : designbynature@telus.net
Design By Nature Park Services
4 bedroom home for rent in McBride. Wood stove. Nice landscaped yard. Mature family only $800 month. 250-566-9126
2004 Ford Freestar minivan Sports model. Tan colour. Loaded. Good condition. Clean. WInter rims and tires included. $6,500 OBO Phone 250569-7295 daytime or 250968 4322 evenings. GTS JAN 25
GTS APR 18
1996 GMC 3/4 ton long box, super cab, 6.5 diesel, automatic, 4 x 4, tunnel cover. $3,000 OBO 2505697181
Mobile Home: 3 Bedrooms, small addition, 1 Bath with F/S, W/D $24,000 OBO Call Deanna 566-9086 or 566-1188 cell
GTS DEC 21
GTS FEB 8
1988 JEEP YJ C/W SnowBlade, Beaconlight, 2-way radio. Approx. 275,000 km. $7,000 OBO Contact 250-5745880 or email ope56@ hotmail.com
Mobile Home: Hartman’s Trailer Park 2 bedrooms, new roof, bathroom, windows, and carpet. Pellet Stove and propane furnace. $20,000 OBO Call Nathan 250-566-5040 GTS FEB 15
GTS NOV 2
1995 Blue SUBARU JUSTY 4WD - $1200 OBO Contact 250-981-1621 GTS OCT 26
1997 FORD F 150 4 x4, reg cab, long box. Motor knocks, easy fix or good for parts. $700 250-566-4557 GTS JULY 20
#004
#015-1
TRAILERS FOR SALE
Mobile Home: Safeway 14’ wide, 3 bedroom mobile home in Dorvall Park. 6” walls, new windows, wood and oil heat, all appliances, fenced yard and storage shed. $25,000 Phone 250-569-2471.
TRAVEL TRAILER
2007 Prowler Travel Trailer 24 foot. Like new, rarely used. Nice floor plan, Full bathroom, shower, stove, oven, microwave, sleeps six. Large awning. Must be seen - 250-566-9834 $15,000. GTS SEPT 14
RENTALS
Rental listings Valemount Real estate
APR 25
GTS APR 25
EMPLOYMENT
The Valemount Museum is seeking a motivated individual to fill the position of Assistant Manager. This is a temporary position for one season with the possibility for long-term/ permanent.
RENTALS
#015-3
#024 #025
3 Bdrms, 2 Baths: Double-wide trailer on town lot w/wired workshop. Propane/wood heat. Pet ok. $725 1 Bdrm suite in Triplex house. Very clean, mostly furnished, all new appliances. Great storage, new shared laundry. Small pet ok, no smoking. $500 + util. Loft-style upper floor 2 bdrm suite. Laundry on-site, good storage & parking, no smoking. June 1st $600. Mtnview Apts. No smoking, no pets, clean and quiet building. Renovated 2 bdrm $575. 2 Bdrm trailer w/full addition. Large wired workshop, fenced yard. Propane/wood heat. Pet ok. $600
Photos and details at
www.rusticluxury.com Call Jen 250-566-1323 LIVESTOCK / HAY
MISC. FOR SALE
500 pound round bales of straw at $25.00 each. Contact Mark 250-5692561 APR 25
Grazing lease available for cows, fenced pasture with grass and water available. Call Terracana for details. 250-968-4304 TFN OCT 5
Hay for sale, $40 a round bale. Call Terracana 250968-4304 TFN OCT 5
Four P245/75P16 Toyota Rims with good for one season Dunlop tires. Rims have sensors. Six bolt holes. $200. Phone 566-9794. GTS MAR 28
4 Cooper Weathermaster Winter Tires With Rims, P215/60R15,Balanced, Installed on new Canadian Tire winter rims, 5 Bolt, Studded, 2.7inches center to center, Like new $500 obo will ship anywhere at buyers expense. Call 604-588-0069 for more information. NOTICE
NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
To whom it may concern: I, Robert James Finlay of Dunster, B.C., will no longer be responsible for any debts that may be acquired by Katrina Lee Finlay as of Monday, April 23, 2012 1291 Week of 4.23.2012
3 FAMILIES 1200 9TH AVE. (GRAHAMS) MAY 12TH & 13TH 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. Many Yard Sale Items Knitting Machine, Patterns, 10 large wool spools $450 Over 1000 Balls wool Buy 10 or more@ $1 each 9 or less @1.50 each
RENTALS
Announcements BC ARTS AND CULTURE WEEK is on until the 28th! Find out what’s going on in your community and schools at www.bcartsweek.org/ events Auto FinAncing WANT A VEHICLE BUT STRESSED ABOUT YOUR CREDIT? Christmas in April, $500 cash back. We fund your future not your past. All credit situations accepted. www.creditdrivers.ca 1-888593-6095. educAtion APPLY NOW: Pennywise Scholarship For Women to attend Journalism certificate course at Langara College in Vancouver. Deadline May 30, 2012. More information: www. bccommunitynews.com TRAIN TO BE AN Apartment/ Condominium Manager at home! We have jobs across Canada. Thousands of graduates working. 31 years of success! Government certified. www.RMTI.ca or 1-800-665-8339, 604-6815456.
employment opportunities CONCRETE FINISHERS and Form Setters. Edmonton based company seeks experienced concrete finishers and form setters for work in Edmonton and northern Alberta. Subsistence and accommodations provided for out of town work; john@raidersconcrete. com. Cell 780-660-8130. Fax 780-444-7103. SERVICE MANAGER Hanna Chrysler Ltd. (Hanna, Alberta). Opportunity in a perfect family environment. Strong team, competitive wages, benefits, growth potential. Fax resume: 403854-2845. Email: chrysler@ telusplanet.net. EXCLUSIVE “THINKBIG” Mechanic Training. GPRC Fairview Campus. $1000. entrance scholarship. Paid practicum with Finning. High school diploma and mechanical aptitude. Write apprenticeship exams. 1-888-999-7882; gprc.ab.ca/ Fairview.
FinAnciAl services
For sAle
legAl services
If you own a home or real estate, ALPINE CREDITS can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is NOT an issue. 1.800.587.2161.
SAWMILLS from only $3997 - MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills. com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.
CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800347-2540.
HeAltH
THE ONE AND ONLY Harley Davidson Technician Training Program in Canada. GPRC Fairview Campus. 15 week program. Current H-D motorcycle training aids. Affordable residences. 1-888-999-7882; www.gprc. ab.ca/fairview.
DROWNING IN DEBTS? Helping Canadians 25 years. Lower payments by 30%, or cut debts 70% thru Settlements. AVOID BANKRUPTCY! Free consultation. www. mydebtsolution.com or Toll Free 1 877-556-3500 MONEYPROVIDER.COM. $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660. For sAle DIY STEEL BUILDING DEALS! Many sizes and models. Make an offer on clearance buildings today and save thousands of dollars. FREE BROCHURE - 1-800668-5111 ext. 170.
HERBAL MAGIC Look great for summer - 1st 9 weeks for $99. Lose Weight and keep it off. Results Guaranteed! Call NOW 1-800-854-5176. Help WAnted EXPERIENCED SERVICE PROVIDER for Chrysler dealership in Salmon Arm. Strong customer satisfaction skills. Able to work in a fast paced environment. Excellent wage/benefit package. Fax resume 1 250 832 4545. email pat@brabymotors.com.
motorcycles
recreAtionAl veHicles BIG FOOT SIGHTINGS! New 2012 bigfoot Campers have arrived ony at Mike Rosman RV! 1-800-667-0024 www. rosmanrv.com
REGIONAL NEWS
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 13
B.C. government mediator ready to negotiate teacher’s dispute DeLynda Pilon SPECIAL TO THE VALLEY SENTINEL
D
r. Charles Jago was chosen by Education Minister George Abbott to mediate the teacher’s dispute, not as an arbitrator, an important distinction according to the minister, who was in Prince George Friday, April 13 along with the premier and several other cabinet ministers. “The goal is to bring together two parties who have been locked in a dispute for over a year now,” the minister, who was touring Duchess Park School before heading off to meetings with the school board, the Prince George District Teachers’ Association and parent advisory committees, said. During that year, he said, 1,109 issues were raised, and only four minor ones were resolved. He added he’s known Jago a long time, and pointed out through Jago’s hard work the University of Northern British Columbia has become a world-class institution. “He has a thoughtful, constructive and respectful nature,” he said. “I believe he can draw the parties together. It’s a shame the BCTF so readily dismissed the skills Jago could bring to the table.” Though he had no firm date as to when the parties would start negotiating again, Abbott said he hoped it would be soon, saying the parties need to get past personality issues and get down to the real issues. “It has been very disappointing. I do hope the parties will get down to business here, hopefully within a week or so.” However, he added, they cannot be forced to negotiate. “I’m not sure they can be forced back to the table. We can only encourage them to come together.” At the time he was awaiting Monday’s labour relations board meeting. One item not discussed at the labour board meeting was Jago’s appointment Though the B.C. Teacher’s Federation asked the
labour board to rule on a request to have Jago removed as mediator, president Susan Lambert said the board responded saying it can’t make that decision. Only the courts can remove him as the mediator. Instead the focus has become report cards. Teachers contend, since they were on strike, they should be paid overtime to fill report cards out now. The opposition contends that a surgery missed during a health care worker strike would still be performed when the employees returned to work. Abbott said the deputy minister of education sent the teachers a letter two weeks ago that the next report card is due in April and the last in June, in compliance with the Education Act. Abbott said he loves that many teachers are reaching out to parents and communicating by phone or the Internet, letting them know their children’s standing in various classes. However, he’s been told the BCTF is gathering and reporting marks, but they’re not going on permanent records, an important component of the process, especially in high school while many students are applying to post-secondary institutions. As for the opinion of residents of the province, Abbott said he believes most share his view that teachers are very hard-working and capable, and generally provide excellent service. However, he said he has a sense there is a growing disconnect between the teachers and the union leadership. “My sense is that there is a growing disconnect between the BCTF leadership and the teachers. Somehow we have to turn a corner because when we are fighting rather than talking, ultimately it’s the students who suffer.” Abbott agrees, however, that turning that corner may be easier said than done. The negotiation process between the teachers and their employer has rarely reached a successful conclusion over a 30-year history of issues. “It’s not a good record,” he said.
Info session added for Valemount on the Affordable Rental Housing Initiative Submitted TO THE VALLEY SENTINEL
T
his week CBT and BC Housing will be hosting information sessions on the new Affordable Rental Housing initiative announced in March. An additional session has been added to Valemount, B.C. on April 30 at 2 p.m. at the Village of Valemount Office. This meeting is mandatory for interested proponents. The partnership between BC Housing and CBT will provide $10 million in funding for the creation of new affordable rental housing projects in communities across the Basin. Proponents wishing to submit a proposal MUST ensure that a representative of their organization attends at least one of these meetings. A sign-in sheet will be available at each information meeting. The individual must sign-in with their name and the name of the organization they are representing. Upon receipt of submissions on the May 30, 2012 submission date, the sign-in sheet attendance will be compared against received submissions. Submissions received from proponents whose organization name does not appear on any of the information meeting sign-in sheets will be ineligible for review of their submission. To obtain a copy of the BC Housing Procurement Guidelines for Non-Profit Housing follow this internet link: http://www.bchousing.org/ resources/Partner_Resources/Construction_ Standards_Procurement/Procurement/Procurement_Guidelines.pdf
BC Housing recommends that organizations make use of this information to help proponents better understand and plan for procurement procedures as part of the overall building development and renovation process. It will also provide a competitive, open, and transparent bidding process that encourages participation by qualified contractors, and achieves the overall best value for a building development or renovation for both non-profit societies and BC Housing. The information will also identify typical procurement issues and provide recommendations on how to mitigate them. All questions related to submissions must be emailed to Mike Lachocki at purchasing@ bchousing.org and must be received by May 4, 2012 at 2 p.m. Deadline for submission of proposals is May 30, 2012, 2 p.m. Pacific.
“Promoting Jago”
Above: On Friday April 13, Education Minister, George Abbott was in Prince George, B.C. and had nothing but good things to say about Dr. Charles Jago, who has been chosen to mediate the teacher’s dispute Photo by DeLynda Pilon
New at the Valemount Public Library Adult non-fiction The innocent ~ David Baldacci 419 ~ Will Ferguson Calico Joe ~ John Grisham Betrayal ~ Danielle Steel
Adult fiction
The research virtuoso ~ Toronto Public Library The back to basics handbook ~ Abigail Gehring Encyclopedia of knitting ~ Donna Kooler Voyagers of the Titanic ~ Hines Davenport
Junior
The last hope ~ Erin Hunter Life is but a dream ~ Brian James Steel ~ Carrie Vaughn The bear went over the mountain ~ Iza Trapani
DVDs
Valemount Public Library
The iron lady War horse The Nazis Puss in boots
Wifi and Internet stations available at no charge. Visit us on Facebook and on our website http://valemount.bclibrary.ca Library hours Tues, Thurs, Fri 10am-5pm Wed 10am-9pm and Sat 11am-3pm
New at the McBride Public Library Adult fiction
Web of Angels – Lilian Nattel A Walk Across the Sun – Corban Addison Invisible Boy – Cornelia Read A Life of Joy (bk 4) – Amy Clipston
Adult Non-fiction
Breaking the Mold – Marilyn Carlaw Randy Bachman’s Vinyl Tap Stories Amigurumi World: ... cute crochet – Ana Paula Rimoli Sisters and Brothers ...Social Justice – Soren Bech
Junior
CLASSIFIEDS WORK!
Hit your mark - Everytime! 250-566-4425
ads@thevalleysentinel.com www.thevalleysentinel.com
The Underneath – Kathi Appelt The Dead of Night (39 Clues) – Peter Lerangis Stink The Incredible Shrinking Kid – Megan McDonald Can Hens Give Milk? Joan Betty Stuchner
DVDs
Cyrano de Bergerac God’s Fiddler High School Musical 2
Come by the library for free internet access or to check out our new titles and upcoming events! Join our group on Facebook to keep in touch.
www. mcbride.bclibrary.ca
14 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
ACTIVITIES WEEKLY HOROSCOPE BY MICHAEL O’CONNOR Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) Something new has been sparked in your perspectives. This is activating your will power. Deciphering where to focus first may be an issue. Yet, doing the rounds on projects, events and leisurely activities will prove satisfying. With new commitments and responsibilities now rooted in your life you should at least have a clear sense of your priorities. Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) The time has come to take some key initiatives. Planning and preparing the ground may include some innovative and inventive thinking and action, at least behind the scenes. You are in the mood to play with the possibilities. This is activating you to draw upon a variety of resources and talents. This is an expansive time so get busy so the increase is not simply in your waistline. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Rest and retreat to simply be and enjoy what is and/or to nurture your self and decompress and release stress… is the call now. This ideal may be easier said than done however as your curiosities and desire to experience new things are also being piqued. This could prove to be a good time to ‘get away’ if you can. How to merge both is the question? Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) Some sizable returns for past choices, attitudes and actions are coming in now, for better or worse. This is activating some sober thinking and/ or sobering realizations. At best, your energy and determination levels are on the rise. Making key enquiries for a new round of investments is also keeping you busy. Measure twice, cut once…! Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) Establishing new foundations in your career and public life continues. These are requiring that you pay extra attention to the details. Your reputation is at stake and stands to undergo a real boost. However, you are probably wise to proceed with prudence and impeccability just the same. All eyes are on you and this is a big opportunity advance to the next level. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Looking to the big picture is important now. Balancing perspectives is motivating your quest. You are seeking realistic philosophies that offer a balance of material and spiritual security. Yet, you must be willing to invest both time and money. Directing your focus towards a healthier overall lifestyle will bring positive returns. Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Accessing the resources of others is a current focus. Managing financial concerns and considerations are motivating you. There are certain things you feel you must do, but may not want to, due to the efforts implied. Discipline is extra important at this stage of the journey which includes deciphering your best direction. Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) Things are stirring on relationship fronts. Opportunities are rising. Yet you are wise to get clear on what you genuinely need in your life, over the next couple of months anyway. A soul searching process is implied. Yet rather than argue with your heart, make every effort to simply listen to it and trust what it is saying, and take note!
The Valley SenTinel
WeaTher ForecaST Wednesday Daytime Condition
Chance of Showers/
P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain
40% 16°C 3°C --
Thursday
Daytime Condition P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain
Rain 70% 13°C 4°C --
Friday Daytime Condition P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain
Rain 60% 12°C 4°C -
Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) The time has come to make a few improvements in your lifestyle. Your health is the main focus. This may require that you take some calculated risks. Be willing to entertain a variety of options so you can decipher which ones are best. Begin at least to communicate your needs and intentions to key players who can support you. Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) An exciting creative cycle wave is upon you. It is pushing you to look to, and invest in the future. It is important that you persevere now. Though you may feel tired, make efforts to rejuvenate and get your second wind, or is it the twenty-second? Aim to be as pragmatic as possible; it will payoff… eventually. Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) A new wave of confidence continues to roll in. Take stock of it and allow it to anchor deeply within. With exciting new perspectives to support your focus, be willing to follow their lead. Playing with the possibilities will allow you to relax and be intuitively guided to what is true for you. Yet, also be willing to push to get to the bottom of things as necessary. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Your focus has turned to practical matters. You are determined to identify your best options. Gaining the support of significant others to assist you to follow through will likely help measurably. Be willing to diversify yet be careful not to scatter. Your willingness to undergo changes in your usual approach is your key to success now.
LAST WEEKS ANSWERS
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday April 25, 2012 • 15
Community
National Victims of Crime Awareness Week Birgit Stutz Contributor
A
pril 22 to 28 is National Victims of Crime Awareness Week (NVCAW), an annual outreach initiative by the Government of Canada. NVCAW provides an opportunity to raise awareness about victim issues and about the programs, services and laws in place to help victims of crime and their families. This year marks the seventh annual NVCAW, with the theme being “Moving Forward”. According to the NVCAW website (www.victimsweek.gc.ca), this theme recognizes that being a victim of crime can be a lifealtering experience and that all victims deserve to be treated with compassion and respect for their dignity as they move forward on their journey toward healing. The theme also acknowledges the many advances the government has made over the past 30 years in ensuring that victims of crime have a more effective voice in the criminal justice system. And last but not least, the theme recognizes the countless dedicated professionals and volunteers throughout Canada who work with victims of crime everyday and help victims of crime move forward af-
ter a victimization, maintain hope for the future and rebuild their lives. One such important service is the Robson Valley Police Based Victim Services program, which covers the catchment areas of both the McBride and Valemount RCMP Detachment. The Robson Valley Police Based Victim Services program is contracted through the Robson Valley Support Society and has been in existence since 2001. While most victim services programs are run with a paid coordinator as well as volunteers, the Robson Valley program is run solely by the co-ordinator. “Currently there are no volunteers,” said Jennifer Quam, Police Based Victim Services Co-ordinator with the Robson Valley Support Society (RVSS) in McBride. Quam said that the majority of referrals come from the RCMP but other agencies such as the McBride and District Hospital as well as the Valemount Health Centre, Ministry of Children and Families, Mental Health, other RVSS programs refer victims to the program as well. “Anyone can self-refer to the program,” said Quam, adding that people can either call the RCMP or the RVSS at (250) 569 2266 to access the program.
“Last year there were a total of eight general inquires into the program, 43 files opened and 68 people assisted through the program. This includes the catchment areas of both detachments. Services provided by the program include but are not limited to emotional support, help to deal with the aftermath of a serious crime or tragedy; practical assistance such as going with you to talk to the police; liaison with Crown counsel; information about the criminal justice system and the court process; accompaniment if you go to court and assistance with preparing for court; help to prepare a Victim Impact Statement; notification on the status of your court case to both victims and those protected by civil restraining orders; notification of the provincial custody status of the offender; information and assistance regarding peace bonds or restraining orders and having it registered in the Protection Order Registry so police have 24-hour access to the content and status of your order which is important to being able to take immediate enforcement action; assistance with applications for financial assistance/benefits if eligible; referrals to appropriate agencies and services; as well as assistance with filing for the Crime Victim Assistance Program.”
“Spotlight on violence against women”
On Saturday, April 21, valley residents in Valemount, B.C. participated in a “High Heel-athon” sponsored by the Robson Valley Support Society to bring attention to the plight of women around the globe who suffer from oppressive and abusive violence. Organizers Shelly Battensby and Nancy Taylor were on hand to remind participants why they were there and to bring attention to this global issue. Above Left: Sherry Tinsley-Bobke leads the contestants in a warm-up exercise prior to the race. Above Centre: High-heeled racers dash from the start line. Above Right: Courtney Hall-Smith, winner of the Valemount High Heel-athon accepts the coveted Golden Shoe Award from a sparkling Mayor Andru McCracken. Photos by Daniel Betts Left: Valemount High Heel-athon winner, Courtney Hall-Smith sprints toward the finish line leaving many male contestants, some dressed in drag, in the dust. Photo by Andrea Scholz
“McBride’s high-heeled runners”
On Thursday, April 19, McBride residents participated in a “High Heel-athon” sponsored by the Robson Valley Support Society with the same purpose as in Valemount of bringing attention to violence against women around the globe. Above Left: McBride runners waiting for the race to start. Above Centre: Penny Rivard and Elizabeth deVries pose with High Heels. Above Right: A row of shows await runner’s feet. Bottom Left: The McBride winner, Alexandria Nadasi reaches the finish line in first position far ahead of the rest of the crowd with some accidents happening. Bottom Right: From left to right, Matt Slaney, Craig Arnold and David Griffith get close to the finish line, with a little help from each other. Photos by Augusto Pardo Bonafonte
16 • Wednesday April 25, 2012 The Valley Sentinel
Call Today about these and other Robson Valley Listings brought to you by 179,000
$
185,000
$
1008 Frontage Rd. mcBride, Bc
• Ice cream & fast foods • Large level landscaped lot • Serviced - on the frontage road • Lot or business? Options available
139,000
$
421 Main Street McBride, BC
224,000
269,000
$
1246 14th Ave Valemount, BC
• Split level - 2 bedrooms up • Full 1 bedroom suite below • Private fenced yard • Immaculate throughout
$
669,000
239,000
$
#1 Stikine Ave. Telegraph Creek,Bc Creek,
699,000
9006 Dunster Croyden Rd $495,000 mcBride, Bc
NEW!
449,000 10050 Dunster Croyden Rd. $119,000 dunster, Bc • 139 acres with creek • Fraser River frontage • Beautiful home, great views • Nature lovers paradise
395,000
$
1194 Essen Road tete Jaune , Bc
$
655,000
865- 4th Ave. mcBride, Bc
82,000
$
• 3 Bedroom up • Full basement, suite potential • Garage and fenced yard • Currently rented
4806 Hwy 16 W mcBride, Bc • 5 bdrm home on 57 acres • Peaceful property • Various outbuildings • Successful B&B and campsite
1430 King Road $ 149,000 Valemount, BC
Martinson Road mcBride, Bc
1154 -3rd Ave mcBride, BC
1245 Dorval Rd mcBride, Bc • Cozy newer mobile • Private and scenic 2 acres • carport and garage • Backs onto crown and the Dore River
259,000
$
• 110 acres minutes from McBride • 3 Titles - 2 residences • Mostly very scenic pastureland • Well kept
• 32 acre mountain retreat • Custom log home • Glacier views • Surrounded by Crown Land
Eddy Road mcBride, Bc
• 600 acre property • 200 acres in pasture, 250 acres in hay, variety of outbuildings & 7 titles • Incredible value
• 4.7 acres w/Village water • Well maintained mobile • Large shop & outbuildings • Great gardens
• Stikine River Song Lodge, • Historic Lodge on the Stikine River • Buildings and 11 lots • Be a part of the prosperous North!
• 467 acres with 2 residences • mostly pasture and hay • year round creek waterfall
$
• Run & own growing “green” business • Bottle/Recycling depot • Everything you need to start your business. • Excellent Opportunity!
$
Featured Listing
• Charming 2 storey guest house • Beautifully refurbished • Excellent revenue • Exceptional value!
$
ce i r P w Ne
1020 COMMERCIAL DRIVE VALEMOUNT, BC
Irene Berndsen
2470 Zeidler Road mcBride, Bc • 3 acre parcel • 1500+ sq ft home with full basement • Minutes from McBride
62,900
$
• Cute and cosy 2 bedrm • Totally renovated • Large yard • Currently rented
250-569-7397 Irene Berndsen
944 - 4th Avenue mcBride, Bc • 2 story cottage • Good location • Fenced yard • Detached garage
ireneb@royallepage.ca
Prince George
w w w. m o u n t a i n v i e w r e a l t y. c a
Irene Berndsen, Sales Representative in McBride
Valemount Real Estate D E C DU
D E C DU
RE
RE
G N I ST
I L NEW GREAT STARTER HOME
3 Bedroom - Nicely Renovated Corner lot with new fence & Workshop
$169,000
LIKE NEW RANCHER
3 Bedroom - immaculate/modern 5 Appliances / Fenced Yard
$209,000
OWNER SAYS SELL IT!
Solid Hardwood throughout / Fenced Yard 4 bedroom/ 2 Bath / Attached Garage
$179,000
D E C DU
RE BEST VIEW IN TOWN
Spectacular View / 2.5 acres and guest cabin 5 bedrooms - Huge kitchen
$419,000
Tammy Van de Nobelen Owner & Sales Associate
SPACIOUS HOME- MODEST PRICE 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath / Nice Garage Island Kitchen / Covered Deck
$219,000
6 BEDROOM ULTIMATE RESIDENCE
Double lot / Immaculate yard Large family kitchen with Attached garage
Call Tammy TODAY for more information on these properties and more.
Visit www.valemountlistings.com
$389,900
Jeannette Townsend Managing Broker