Volume 27 Issue 31

sentinel YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

WEDNESDAY August 1, 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

3 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

High: 17°C Low: 8°C

High: 21°C Low: 7°C

High: 25°C Low: 6°C

WILD FOODS

WILDLIFE PATROL - PAGE 3

TOP SHELF EXHIBIT- PAGE 7

RUN FOR YOUR LIFE - PAGE 7

“Wild Food Walk” Above: The Valemount Museum sponsored a wild food walk on Saturday, July 28, 2012. Irene Nunweiler (on right) led a group of 23 people to discover what foods can be found just north of Valemount, B.C. Plentiful medicinal herbs such as plantain and yarrow were shown and participants tasted a plethora of berries. Many local people attended as well as visitors from all around the world.

BUSINESS WATCH - PAGE 10

Photo Valemount Museum

2 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

UPFRONT

New Village of Valemount logo not welcomed by all Daniel Betts EDITOR

O

n July 24, during the Village of Valemount council meeting, some valley residents expressed their disappointment with council’s decision to adopt a new logo. Council received a letter written by local resident and former village councillor, Joan Nordli explaining the history behind the original logo and asking why, in the 50th anniversary year of the village would council decide to make such a change.

“It’s a crest, it was developed as a crest. It’s known all over. It’s recognized as the Village of Valemount.

It’s an emblem,” stated Nordli during the council meeting.

Andru McCracken, Mayor of Valemount, felt it important to address the issue despite the decision having been made and asked council for feedback.

“I like change,” stated Councillor Blanchette. “For 50 years we’ve had this logo and I think the 50 year celebration is a good time to look back and celebrate our older logo and again to start with something new and our new logo.”

Mayor McCracken noted that a $50 thousand branding study conducted for the Village of Valemount recommended the new tourism logo council recently adopted, creating a consistent branding package. “I’m comfortable with the new logo,” stated Mayor McCracken. “But I think I said pretty clearly at the council meeting where this was discussed, it’s really important for us to pay heed to the previous logo and I would like to see something done where we fly that banner proud.” Mayor McCracken offered the Fire Hall as an example where the old version of the logo still exists and the trucks still have the old crest as well. Mayor McCracken also noted all the old letterhead that still exists will continue to be used until it has run out. “We have to get our stuff in order and have a consistent theme and that takes time.”

“I guess the big thing is consistency and continu-

ity of promoting our town with one symbol. In Valemount we are embracing tourism now so it’s not an us and them kinda logo its something we are going to stand behind whether we participate in tourism or not, just for the consistency I think is really important,” said Councillor Dallas Bullock.

During the public input portion of the council meeting Jeannette Townsend, former Mayor of Valemount and Rita Tchir, former Village of Valemount Councillor, expressed their disappointment with the current council for their decision to change the Village of Valemount crest. “Any dully incorporated municipality has a coat of arms or a crest, they do not adopt the logos of the tourism marketing strategy,” said Townsend. “I feel that an error has been made.” She felt more community involvement was needed before the decision was made. Townsend pointed out the new logo fails to acknowledge Valemount’s forestry heritage. “What about the forest industry and our forest workers and those who have contributed over the years and paid taxes to this municipality for decades? They have not been considered at all.”

Tchir asked council if a final cost had been determined for changing to a new logo. While council did not appear to have an immediate answer, acting Chief Administrative Officer, Anne Yanciw spoke to The Valley Sentinel on Monday, July 30.

“I don’t really see any costs,” said Yanciw. “We are changing a lot out through attrition.” She explained that as items are used up or become worn out they would be replaced with the new logo such as decals on village vehicles, where they have the ability to create them in house at a very low cost.

“As they fade and look ugly we will replace them with the new ones,” said Yanciw. Some costs would be incurred anyway as items are used up or are in need of replacing. She noted the village has been using electronic letterhead for sometime now and there is no cost to switch over the electronic logo.

“There are very few things that we are unable to change over with minimal cost,” said Yanciw.

“Old versus New”

The originally adopted crest of the Village of Valemount shown above will be replaced with the new “Sun and Snowflake” logo shown below. Some community residents are less than pleased with the change.

Wishing You and Your Families a Safe and Happy BC Day!

“Charity Ride stops in Valemount, B.C.”

Above: Thirty riders of the Military Police National Motorcycle Relay Ride (MPNMRR) stopped for lunch at the Valemount Legion Branch #266 on Monday afternoon. The five-day charity ride started in Victoria, B.C. on Saturday, July 28, took them to Vancouver, B.C., Kamloops, B.C., and into Jasper, Alta. where they met up with the Alberta and the Territories Chapters. From there they will continue down to Golden, B.C., Penticton, B.C., and back to Victoria, B.C., on August 2. This annual charity ride raises funds for the Children’s Wish Foundation and the Military Police Fund for Blind Children.

Photo by Marie Birkbeck

Carol Patton, CGA Certified General Accountant

Shirley BOND, MLA Prince George–Valemount

Office: 1350 5th Avenue Prince George, BC Toll Free: 1.866.612.7333 Phone: 250.612.4181 Shirley.Bond.MLA@leg.bc.ca

www.shirleybondmla.bc.ca

In Valemount every 2nd Wednesday of the month.

1-800-846-9190 or 250-672-9921

Regional News

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 3

Federal electoral boundary changes open for debate Daniel Betts Editor

T

he Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission (FEBC) for British Columbia has proposed a significant change that would see Valemount, B.C. become part of the Prince George-Peace River riding.

Cathy McLeod, MP for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo and current federal representative for Valemount, B.C. talked to The Valley Sentinel about the proposed change. She explained the commission is completely independent from members of parliament and they have drafted a proposed plan that will incorporate six additional seats in parliament and also adjust current boundaries according to changes in population. “Certainly the boundary commission has big challenges in terms of trying to get those numbers to make sense throughout the province,” said McLeod. “Now is the time for communities to look at these [proposals] and ask ‘does it make sense for us?’ and to respond back to the commission.” She said the general population has an opportunity to make comments.

McLeod said every community in her riding is unique. “I’ve really enjoyed having the opportunity to work with all of them,” said McLeod. “I enjoy working with Valemount. I would miss working with Valemount if the boundaries change.” She does feel residents should take the time to consider what makes sense for Valemount and area.

When asked about projects currently under her care and what would happen should the riding be changed

she reminded us that it is the job of any member of parliament to do the work that needs to be done in every community. She acknowledged one of the most important projects happening right now is the work that is being done jointly with the province in terms of the Barriere to McBride Economic Development Plan.

“I think that is an absolutely critical piece that needs to continue,” said McLeod. She anticipated this project and any other specific project involving the federal government, such as the geothermal hydro project or proposed ski mountain project, would certainly be picked up in a different riding.

The FEBC responded to a query from The Valley Sentinel by stating, “The purpose of the public hearings and direct submissions to the Commission is to elicit input from the public. The proposal is open for discussion and the Commission is willing to listen to all suggestions before submitting its final plan.”

During the July 24 Village of Valemount Council Meeting, Andru McCracken, Mayor of Valemount, said he has been reviewing the proposed changes and has an alternative proposal for residents of Valemount to consider. Rather than Prince George-Peace River, Mayor McCracken believes Kootenay-Columbia may be a better match for Valemount. According to the “Mayor’s report on Federal Election Boundary changes” which was discussed during the Committee of the Whole portion of council, Mayor McCracken stated, “I think we should consider Kootenay-Columbia as an appropriate federal riding for Valemount.” Mayor McCracken cites similarities with mountain tourism

concerns and a “diversified economy” being more akin to communities in the Kootenay-Columbia.

In a conversation with The Valley Sentinel, Mayor McCracken stated, “We’ve been really well served by Cathy McLeod, but this isn’t about now, this is about the future.” Mayor McCracken feels what make sense for the community is what is most important. “Cathy McLeod has done remarkable things for this valley.

She has been involved in our economic development in a way MPs have not been involved before.” Mayor McCracken was clear his opinion of the proposal to change electoral boundaries was non-partisan. “As the Mayor, we really need to think about how we are served federally.”

Mayor McCracken invites residents to share their opinion. “I’m really interested in hearing what people think,” said Mayor McCracken. “I think as a community we need to find a way of addressing this.” Interested residents can also express their opinion directly to the FEBC via email at: bc-cb@rfed-rcf.ca. Mayor McCracken feels a petition would be useful in this circumstance in order to gauge the opinion of village residents. “I think that would be a powerful way of assessing whether this has any legs.”

A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, September 17, in Prince George, B.C. at 2 p.m. to gather opinions on the proposed boundaries and electoral district names. The deadline to sign up for a hearing is August 30, 2012. Mayor McCracken expects the Village of Valemount will send representation to this event.

Wildlife Guardians on patrol Robson Fletcher Editor, The Fitzhugh

C

arrying reflective vests, traffic signs and disarming smiles, Valérie Domaine and Miki Eslake patrol Jasper’s highways, looking for tourists in need of a little local knowledge.

The pair makes up half of the national park’s contingent of “Wildlife Guardians” – specialized employees charged with breaking up traffic jams and educating visitors about how to safely observe wild animals they see on the side of the road.

“It’s based on the same program they have in Banff called the Bear Guardians,” explained Domaine, who has been with the Jasper program since it began in 2010.

“But since we don’t have only bears – people are going to see goats, sheep, elk, and all kinds of other animals – we decided to call it Wildlife Guardians.”

Previously, Domaine said park wardens and resource conservation officers would respond to traffic snarl-ups caused by wildlife near highways and would haze the animals away. This approach, however, was difficult for the animals – as they find some of their best food sources along the sides of roadways – and frustrating for visitors looking to take home some souvenir snapshots.

“So we wanted to find a solution to that and allow for a good visitor experience and safe wildlife viewing opportunities,” Domaine said.

The program begins each May but Domaine, Eslake and the two other Wildlife Guardians in Jasper don’t begin full-time highway patrols until July 1, when tourists start arriving in force. They spend their days driving busy highways, looking for wildlife and keeping a close ear on the dispatch radio.

When they come across a traffic jam, they kick into gear – directing traffic, asking people who are approaching wildlife on foot to return to their vehicles, and answering any questions that visitors might have about the animals they are seeing.

The primary concern is safety – that of the humans and the wildlife – but a big part of their mission is also education. The two goals often go hand-in-hand.

While it might seem like common sense to keep your distance from a grizzly, Domaine said that’s not always obvious to a visitor who is seeing a wild bear for the first time. She has seen some people “approaching the bear to the point that they could touch it.”

“A lot of them don’t even know that a bear can be dangerous,” she said. “And when we tell them, they’re all surprised and they run back into their cars, all scared all of a sudden.”

Others with more wildlife knowledge still throw caution to the wind, sometimes, as they get lost in the moment.

“People are so excited they just rush out of their car to approach the animals and they don’t even look for traffic. They forget to do it,” Domaine said. “Or people stop in the middle of the road to take photos without realizing it.”

In those situations, the Wildlife Guardians direct traffic to the highway shoulder and have people queue up their vehicles and move along after taking a few photos. People who want to take more pictures are asked to drive ahead to a point where it’s safe to make a U-turn, and then return to the back of the line.

“If we don’t do that, it’s always going to be the same person parked next to the bear,” Domaine said.

Drivers approaching the bear jam, meanwhile, are informed that there is an

“Wildlife patrol”

Above: Miki Eslake (left) and Valérie Domaine (right) are two of the four Wildlife Guardians on patrol in Jasper National Park this summer.

Photo by Robson Fletcher

animal nearby and if they want to take photos, to join the line. Otherwise, they can drive right past.

Eslake, a geography student at the University of British Columbia who is working as a Wildlife Guardian for the summer, said most people are more than happy to comply with the directions she gives them.

“They’re just pretty excited that you’ve just told them there’s a bear right around the corner, so they know exactly where to look for it,” she said.

“There’s a couple people that don’t want to listen, but the majority I’d say for sure are pretty happy that you’re there, especially because it just makes everything more controlled. So even though you’re somewhat limiting how close they can get and things like that, everyone can tell it’s just a safe situation and people who want to go by can pass by it easier.”

The Wildlife Guardians also carry a GPS device and record all their animal sightings, adding to Jasper National Park’s information database.

On slower days when there are few traffic jams, Domaine and Eslake park their van and set up displays featuring elk antlers and bear pelts and answer tourists’ questions about the local environment. A common message they convey to visitors is to refrain from feeding the animals – again, something that might seem like common sense but isn’t always.

“Unfortunately a lot of people do it. I don’t think they know the harm they do to the animals – with the sheep, especially,” Domaine said. “And also, the sheep carry disease. People don’t know that.”

That apparently wasn’t well known to one person, in particular, whom Domaine cites as the most bizarre case of human-wildlife interactions she’s heard of. This particular individual decided it would be a good idea to grab a ram by the horns and wrestle with it.

Domaine didn’t see it herself, but heard the story from resource conservation officers, who responded to the scene and explained to the person why it’s not wise to touch, let alone engage in battle with wild sheep.

4 • Wednesday August 1, 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

Another Monday

W

hat are you doing this coming Monday?

Camping? Going for a hike?

Throwing out a line in the hopes of catching that elusive big one? If you’re lucky you’ll be enjoying the statutory holiday while I’ll be up to my elbows in newspaper ink, figuratively speaking of course. I’m not trying to sound bitter, I actually love what I do. For instance, unlike many British Columbians you won’t take Monday for granted because you’re reading this week’s Viewpoint in The Valley Sentinel and I’m going to give you the skinny on B.C.’s special day.

The Legislative Assembly created B.C. Day in 1974 with an objective of recognizing pioneers in the province on the first Monday in August. Why August you may ask? Please read on.

When English explorer James Cook discovered Nootka Sound in 1778 and set his salty boots on shores of future British Columbia he shrewdly traded for sea otter pelts with the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation. Word of the enormous profit Cook had acquired in his impromptu business transaction brought an influx of fur traders to the British Columbian coast.

Trading posts were quickly established, but of course conflict soon ensued between the Spanish and the English almost leading to war. That being said European colonists were here to stay.

In the 1790s mainland British Columbia began being explored by Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Simon Fraser and David Thompson, all employees of the North West Company, who were looking for a river route to the Pacific in order to extend the fur trade. During the initial explorations, Fort St. John became the first permanent European settlement in British Columbia.

Simon Fraser and his crew established several forts including Fort George and Fort St. James. Following the river that now bears his name, Fraser ended up where present day Vancouver would one day stand.

David Thompson’s expedition found the Columbia River, but those damn Yankee explorers Lewis and Clark had already claimed the territory at the mouth of the Columbia for the United States six years earlier.

But that’s ok; we named a river after him anyway.

In 1858 lucky folk started shouting, “Gold!” along the banks of the Thompson River east of Lytton, B.C., triggering the Fraser Canyon Gold rush. 20,000 Americans rushed north. Fearing a threat to British sovereignty the British Colonial Office established the mainland as a crown colony on August 2, 1858, naming it the Colony of British Columbia.

So there you have it; how it all started. So while you are enjoying yourself out on your boat or kicking up your heals in the backyard go ahead and give a thought to what happened 154 years ago; you know you will now that you’ve read this. I will too, only I’ll be working, but that’s okay. I don’t mind. Really it’s ok, don’t give it a second thought. Enjoy yourselves. Honest.

As a retired ministry of Transportation and Highways worker we were appalled to see the shoddy repairs left in place in the Main Street C.N. rail crossing [at 5th Avenue in Valemount, B.C.]. All vehicles that are required to use this rail crossing suffer premature damage to their steering and under carriage parts because of the lack of required work to complete the required repairs, there are no excuses that can be offered for leaving a condition like this. The attached photograph [right] demonstrates what proper installations with good repairs look like in other areas of the Province of B.C and not using these standards in Valemount, B.C. is discriminatory. Shame on local officials for turning a blind eye to vehicle and people safety related to rail crossings.

R.E. Johnson - Nelson, B.C

Gratitude Dear Editor: We would like to express to our neighbours, friends and Valemount businesses our heartfelt appreciation for your support on our behalf.

We are amazed by the generosity, compassion and spirit of this community we are blessed to call home.

Words cannot state the depth of our gratitude.

Thank you.

Joey & Gus Wild – Valemount, B.C.

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Country Chic Thanks!

Dear Editor: We would like to take this opportunity to thank our family, friends and the community for all of your support and kind words towards Country Chic Beauty Salon! Without you this new venture would not be possible. We would like to send out a special thank you to the following people for all of their hard work and craftsmanship for making the salon what it is today: Jim Chuipka, Tyler Chuipka, Daniel Norton, Clemens Esser (wood work), Dave Hunter (sign letters), Nathan and Beth Dubeck, John Mazereeuw, Gordon Holland, Todd Holmes, Art Chartier, Tanya Rich (cake) and anyone else we have forgotten to mention.

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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 5

OPINION » MAILBAG

Remember that ‘Words Kill’ Dear Editor: Take a full piece of paper. Do you have it? Good, now write down every negative words, or phrases that one person could say to another. After you’re finished writing, destroy the piece of paper, in any way you choose. Crumple it, tear it, burn it, whatever, make sure it’s good and destroyed.

In this assignment I took part in, I was taught in an efficient way, just the full extent that bullying could have on someone. The paper at the beginning represents a normal person, with nothing on it and whole. All the nasty things you wrote on it represents the same person, but a victim of bullying, and at the end, when you destroyed the piece of paper, represents the defeat of a victim. Literally. Words kill.

My name is Aislinn-Rae and I’m 14 years old. I was born and lived half of my life in McBride B.C., and still spend most of my summers there. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, I was homeschooled while living there, and never experienced what the education, or social aspects of the public school in McBride was like compared to the schools I’ve attended in my current, Sarnia, Ont. I do have family and friends, who attend McBride elementary school, and from what I have lately been informed, not only is the actual education being given in the elementary school an issue of concern, but bullying is as well. By now you may be wondering why a child of all people, living in a completely different province would be writing this editorial on such an overlooked topic in such a small town, but that’s just why. Bullying is an overlooked topic.

Parents have gone to the principal of the public school and made a point of addressing the issue, to which the principal to my knowledge responded with the general opinion to get over it, and did nothing more.

From a child’s perspective, I think this is atrocious.

Not only because bullying is actually a LEGAL offence that can be taken to court, but because nothing has or is being done to stop it.

Anti-bullying presentations are held annually in most schools across Canada to inform students on how to stop it, how to inform teachers and parents of bullies, and how not to become one. They inform children of exactly WHAT bullying is.

For those of you who aren’t aware, bullying can take many forms such as mental, emotional, verbal, physical, and cyber. When the act of bullying takes place, there are three types of people involved; #1 the bully, #2 the victim, and #3 the bystander who does nothing but watch the bully.

Exclusion from groups and activities, name calling, taunting, being made the subject of rumours, racism, sexism, hitting, kicking, punching, spitting, tripping, and shoving are ways that people are bullied.

Remember at the beginning, when I said that the destruction of the paper was the literal defeat of a victim of bullying? Well the reason for my overall concern on the subject of bullying in my hometown is that where I’m currently living, there’s been an increasing amount of school-aged suicides. I’ve gone to suicide awareness rallies, I’ve been to dozens of anti-bullying presentations, and I was broken hearted when I heard that I had loved ones being bullied in my own hometown, but I was furthermore devastated when I heard, that absolutely nothing was being done to stop or prevent it.

I’m only 14 years old, and the most I can do is educate as many people as possible of the severity of bullying, and the long term mental toll it may have, and not be a bully myself, but to those of the adults I hope are reading this right now, you can do a lot more. We’re all human, we all make mistakes, but we’re all equal.

And remember, words kill.

Aislinn Rae Parlette – Sarnia, Ont.

Splendid neighbour

LOCAL JOB LOCAL JOB POSTINGS POSTINGS

Updated August 1, 2012 Updated August 1, 2012

 Bartender  Campground Host  Campground Attendant/Fee Collector

 Cashier/Bus Position  Casual Admin Service Co              

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.

School Works provides an $8/hr student wage subsidy for the full school year.

• Columbia Basin small businesses, non-profit, First Nation or public organizations may qualify.

• Guidelines available at www.cbt.org/schoolworks.

• Application intake starts August 14.



ordinator Cook/Chef Dishwasher Front Desk Housekeepers Housekeeping Runner Light Duty Cleaner Maintenance Person Paramedic/EMR Prep Cook/Kitchen Helper Public Area Cleaner Red Cross Swimming Instructor Servers/Bartenders Short Order Cook Specialty Cook (International Cuisine) Store Audit/Mystery Shopper Traffic Control Person

Wedesk are staff herecantogive help.

Front you Please detailed about each of these call information or drop in.

For more postings, including info on how to information on these jobs or submit your application for these job other employment assistance . opportunities

services visit us at Regency Place 1201- 5th Ave, Valemount.

www.valemountlearningcentre.org Valemount Learning Centre Box 789 Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 250-566-4601

The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and The Employment Program of British Columbia isColumbia. funded by the Government theofProvince of British Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

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Interruption to local

Television

service August 2nd 12pm - 5pm August 3rd 8am - 5pm August 4th 8am - 5pm

This will affect residents who receive tv signals via an antenna. Summer cleaning and maintenance requires a temporary shut down of each station one at a time.

Thank you for your understanding!

-The Valemount Entertainment Society

250-566-4601

Dear Editor:

Jeannette Townsend - Valemount, B.C.

HIRE A STUDENT ROB PORTER, OWNER, JUST LIQUID SPORTS THIS FALL AND RECEIVE A WAGE SUBSIDY

Valemount Learning Centre

» MAILBAG

Recently my son, who is a tree faller on Vancouver Island, pruned trees and shrubs on my property. The prunings made quite a large pile on the front lawn, and he was awaiting assistance to remove it. When his help arrived, they were surprised to see the pile was gone. My neighbour, Brendan Taylor, was observed to have stopped, loaded and crushed the prunings with his equipment, and then drove on. I should like to thank Brendan Taylor publicly for his considerate act. My son is recovering from a work related accident where both of his legs were broken. The removal of all these prunings provided relief, and is so very much appreciated.

It is my very real blessing to have a splendid neighbour like Brendan Taylor who performs kind deeds anonymously.

“Having Ryan here gave me time to plan for business growth and strategy. “

This summer could be a scorcher.

Nearly half of all wildfires in British Columbia are caused by human carelessness. Please prevent and report wildfires. To report a wildfire, call *5555 on your cell.

For more information, visit emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca

6 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Community Events SPECIAL EVENTS

“McbRide 80’th incorporation anniversary”- Historical archival & artifact show- On exhibit now until Sept 30 at Museum/ Library building-241 Dominion Street, McBride Children’s summer heritage program Every Thursday 2 p.m.-3 p.m.

July-August at the Valemount Museum There are different activities planned for each week. Come out and see what fun activity they have planned!

Weird Science with Weirder Scientists @ the McBride Library Friday, August 3 at 2:00 p.m.

Try your hand at crazy experiments. All strange, but true ...

NorthWEst mud racing August 4-5 200 ft side by side mud racing, drag races, and a bog pit. At the Canoe River Campground Rodeo Grounds.

Robson Valley Support Society hosts: info session regarding elder abuse Wednesday, August 8 at 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Golden Years Lodge Constable Simon Bentley will be the guest presenter.

Learn about how to identify a predator, be aware of local risks, and find ways to stay safe. Call Shelly at 250-566-9107 for more information.

McNee Family Reunion

Robson valley music festival - Aug 17-19 Come out and enjoy a weekend of music, food, and good friends. This years line up will include acts like Don Alder, Allen & Alexander, Ball Gag n Chain Gang, and many more talented artists. There will be local vendors, food vendors, and wares vendors.

If you would like to participate in any way or want any more information please visit their website. www.robsonvalleymusicfestivalbc.com Valemount Marina Fishing Derby September 1-2, 2012

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Aug 5, 2012 12 - 3 pm Valemount Pines Golf Course & Campground Valemount, BC Please stop by and say hello!!

Hope to see you there!

Mount Robson Marathon - Sept 8, 2012

ONGOING EVENTS 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.

• TAI KWAN DO & SELF DEFENSE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and TAI KWAN DO KIDS CLASSES 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

• LADIES DAY at Valemount Pines Gold Club (all day) tuesdays: • Valemount Children’s Activity Centre Board Meeting 1st Tuesday of the month - 7 p.m. @ the Centre beneath the Community Hall (the red door).

• 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.

• CARDIO KICK BOXING 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• VALEMOUNT PINES KIDS DAy at the Valemount Pines Golf Course starting at 6 p.m. The program is free and equipment will be provided for children who do not have their own.

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.

• TAI KWAN DO & SELF DEFENSE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and TAI KWAN DO KIDS CLASSES 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

• MENS DAY at Valemount Pines Gold Club (all day) THURSDAYS: • CRIBBAGE GAME at Golden Years Lodge at 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Everyone Welcome!

• 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.

• CARDIO KICK BOXING 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• VALEMOUNT FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP will meet the last Thursday of every month at the old Village Office, 99 Gorse St., at 7:30 p.m.. For families dealing with mental health issues. Call Irene Brady at (250) 566 1958.

• FARMER’S MARKET 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. beside the Information Centre.

FRIDAYS • 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 circle dance. For more info please contact 250 566-1782

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.

• CREATIVE WRITING for teens at 7 p.m. at the McBride Library.

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 FRIDAYS: • FARMER’S MARKET 12 noon - 3 p.m. at the pavilion in the Park 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.

ADVENTURE HIKING SKIING TOURS

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS!

3010 Selwyn Road Telephone: 1-250-566-4401

PO Box 190, Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 Fax Number: 1-250-566-4333

www.robsonhelimagic.com

250-566-4700

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 7

ARTS & ENTERTAIMENT

Top Shelf Exhibit: Justin Hooke Photography Daniel Betts EDITOR

T

he Valemount Public Library is once again treating patrons to another great artistic event with its Top Shelf Exhibit. This month, talented award winning local photographer Justin Hooke is displaying some new prints that have not yet been seen.

A world traveller, Hooke says he takes photographs for fun. “It’s more hobby, its not demand or deadline,” says Hooke. Despite having taken some rather dramatic wildlife shots, Hooke claims he has never been in danger.

“I was within five or 10 feet of the gorillas,” said Hooke. Being with a guide and a ranger Hooke did not feel like he was in any danger. “I’ve never had a dangerous encounter with wildlife,” Hooke said, knocking on wood.

Hooke likes to take pictures of anything and everything. “There is not one favourite. I love landscapes. People really make a great picture of what a country is. I love flowers. I love macro, just anything.”

Hooke supplements his photography selling prints, postcards and this year added magnets. “Every year it gets better and better. Right now it’s kind of a self-funded hobby.”

Hooke’s photos will be on display at the Top Shelf Exhibit at the Valemount Public Library until the middle of August.

“I see you”

Above: One of the photographs on display at the Top Shelf Exhibit at the Valemount Public Library. The exhibit will be on display until the middle of August.

Photo by Justin Hooke

“Get motivated”

Above: Local motivators and event organizers Martina Wall and Ashley Desormeau on Saturday, July 28, 2012.

Photo by Astrid Frazier

Run for YOUR Life – 2012

The Verge: Between Worlds

ANDREA FREDEEN ∙ ANNEROSE GEORGESON ∙ KARMA VANCE ∙ MICHELE JENSEN Organized & circulated by Two Rivers Gallery

Valemount and Area Museum 1090 Main Street, Valemount Opening Reception August 4 · 11AM

Astrid Frazier CONTRIBUTOR

M

cBride Mission “SLIM” Possible is a weight loss support group created a year ago in August 2011 by Martina Wall. She wanted to form a group of people who faced similar weight-loss challenges. The group currently has 10 members and in the past year the group has lost a total of 200 pounds by eating healthy and exercising. Meetings are held once a week and they do many fun challenges together such as: obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, 5km glow runs, local hikes etc. Group Member Ashley Desormeau brought an idea to the group: have the First Annual “Run for Your Life” 10 km run. Many members of the group were eager to help out with this event and Ashley says she could not have planned this event without them. There are many runs and fundraisers for cures but not many directed towards prevention and general promotion of good health. The McBride Mission “SLIM Possible” group created this event as a starting point for anyone who wants more out of life. “Don’t let the word “run” scare you,” said Desormeau. “You can walk or jog as well.” She explains this is not a competition or fundraiser; it is about “taking control of your health. It is about motivating towards a healthier you. You have the power to choose a healthy lifestyle and the group is here to help motivate you. Choose today to start the journey. Choose to ‘Run for YOUR Life.’”

The group asks anyone to come and join them on Saturday, August 11, 2012 for a fun and motivating day. Everyone is asked to register for the event by August 3, 2012 so they know how much food to plan for. There is no cost to participate in this event. Everyone will meet at the Village Park at 9:30 a.m. to register and listen to a short motivational speech. The run begins at 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., starting at the park and heading down Eddy road and back to the park. The run will be followed by a “healthy” BBQ at the park which is free to participants but there will be food available to purchase for family members who wish to attend the BBQ afterwards. This event will take place “rain or shine” as Desormeau quotes “I put this weight on in all kinds of weather, so it can come off in all kinds of weather”. Volunteers are needed to run the BBQ, water check points along the route and help out with the run.

To register or for more information call: Ashley at (250) 569 7771 or Martina (250) 569 7080 Come out and Run for inspiration, Run for motivation, Run for you, Run because you can, Run...for YOUR life!

August 2 – 30 · 2012

Acrylic Workshop with Karma Vance FREE Sunday, Aug 5, 1–4PM Encounter in the Forest: Adding movement and energy fields to your forest landscape paintings. This workshop will use an experimental process that includes techniques to enliven and add sparkle to your forest images. You can either bring your own photographs of a forest setting to work on or use one provided by the instructor.

Karma Vance, Autumn Sparkle, 2012.

Acrylic on canvas.

Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch

Canada Council for the Arts

Registration required.

Please contact Valemount and Area Museum at 250-566-4177

Conseil des Arts du Canada

Advantage Insurance Services Ltd. Your best insurance is an insurance broker 433 Main St, McBride, BC

1.888.611.5557

8 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

REGIONAL NEWS Regional news briefs Daniel Betts EDITOR

Body Recovered From Fraser River in Prince George

According to the Prince George RCMP, on the afternoon of Sunday, July 29, 2012, a body was recovered from the Fraser River.

Just before 2 p.m., the RCMP’s Operational Communications Centre received a report of a body floating down the Fraser River, past Fort George Park in the city. Officers were immediately dispatched to the area. After checks of several shore lines on the west side of the river, the deceased person was located in the area of Landsdowne Road, nearly four kilometres from the park.

The RCMP’s Forensic Identification Section and the BC Coroners Service were called to the scene. The investigation is in its beginning stages. Further details may be provided once confirmed.

Third victim recovered from Johnsons Landing mudslide

Last week, the BC Coroners Service confirmed the body of a third victim was recovered from the site of the Johnsons Landing mudslide.

The body of Rachel Webber, 17, was recovered by searchers at about 6 p.m. on July 25, the first day of the resumption of recovery efforts. Ms. Webber was located near the front of what had been her family’s home in Johnsons Landing, just outside the boundaries of the first search area. Her father, Valentine, 60, and older sister Diana, 22, had been located in proximity to the same area during searches on July 15 and 16.

After two further days of searching yielded no further positive results the week before, the BC Coroners Service had paused the search to re-assess the reasonable likelihood of finding more victims along with the potential risks to searchers. Experts concluded the slide site was becoming somewhat safer and there was a reasonable possibility of recovering Rachel, leading to the resumed search on July 25.

“I cannot express my thanks strongly enough to all our partners in this effort,” said chief coroner Lisa Lapointe. “Special thanks must go to all the volunteers from Kaslo Search and Rescue and their manager Bruce Walker, to the local ambulance, fire and RCMP members, our colleagues at Emergency Management BC and to forensic analyst Bob Stair who pinpointed with such accuracy the best locations to search in a debris field that covers more than 80 acres. Additionally, we would like to thank the people of Kaslo and surrounding areas for the support and many kindnesses they demonstrated throughout the search effort.”

One victim of the slide, German national Petra Frehse, 64, remains missing.

Lapointe reconfirmed that, reluctantly, no further efforts will be undertaken to try to locate her body. A sizable excavation effort was completed at the former site of her residence but, because of the absence of artifacts recovered and due to the catastrophic impact of the slide at that site, the experts have concluded that there is no reasonable likelihood of locating her.

Street Class Welcome!

Register by 10am Saturday

CBT releases 2011/12 annual report

Learn more about Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and the activities it supports through its 2011/12 Annual Report and 2012 Report to Residents.

The Annual Report reflects CBT’s performance for the year ending March 31, 2012, and details its financial investments, spending and program and initiative activities. Report to Residents contains a condensed version of the above plus highlights recent CBT-supported projects and initiatives, offering a reader-friendly and informative glimpse at CBT and its role in the Basin.

The theme of both reports, “Foundation for Growth,” reflects CBT’s focus on strengthening its foundation to better serve Basin residents. It is doing so by working with partners and communities to build collective capacity, and by implementing solid systems that can address the growth in CBT’s ability to deliver benefits to the Basin.

“Over the past year, we significantly increased our ability to deliver benefits to the Basin by leveraging and expanding our strategic partnerships, implementing new programs and initiatives and continuing to work collaboratively with residents and communities around key issues,” said Garry Merkel, CBT Board Chair. “We’ve also been identifying potential new roles and opportunities to work with Basin communities, and will further explore some of those opportunities and their implications for CBT over the coming year.”

In 2011/12, CBT returned a record $18.2 million in direct funding benefits to Basin communities, up from $11.2 million in 2009/10. CBT had a deficit of $1.4 million, partly due to making more funds available to deliver benefits in the Basin, and partly due to a decrease in total revenues, which were $22.9 million in 2011/12, down from $29.5 million in 2010/11. However, CBT’s earnings have increased over the past several years, resulting in surpluses. As such, CBT is in a strong cash position to fund future increases to its delivery of benefits.

“Due to deliberate and prudent planning, we were able to deliver a record $18.2 million in direct funding benefits to the region in 2011/12—60 per cent more than in the previous year,” said Neil Muth, CBT President and CEO. “We’re excited by a positive financial outlook moving into the new fiscal year and beyond, and plan to deliver $20 million in benefits in 2012/13.”

The Annual Report is posted online at www.cbt.org/annualreport. Report to Residents is being distributed Basin-wide or can be found at any CBT office or online at www.cbt.org/r2r.

CBT supports efforts to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit www.cbt.org or call 1 800 505 8998.

SIDE BY SIDE MUD RACING August 4- 5, 2012

200 ft side by side mud racing North Americas Dirtiest, Biggest, Baddest 4x4 Dragsters In excess 2500 hp Canoe Mountain Rodeo Grounds - Valemount, B.C.

Gates Open @ 10 am on Saturday & Sunday Racing Starting @ 2 pm on Saturday AND @ noon on Sunday

Bring lawn chairs!

Stick around for the Danc e Saturday Ni on ght!

Depending on Interest we will have a quad class and/or snowmobile class

Community Notes from All Over Donalda Beeson Contributor

The Apple Guy Returns to Valemount and Needs Help Doug Kadatz, the “apple guy” brings his truck to the Ramada parking lot in Valemount on Mondays throughout the summer. He is looking for help loading and unloading his truck on five Mondays, from 12 to 4 p.m., and is offering good pay. Contact Joan Nordli at (250) 566 4342 if you are interested.

Mud Bogs Need Volunteers The Mud Bogs are in need of volunteers to help out on August 4 and 5. Phone (250) 566 4500 or (250) 566 4709 if you are interested.

Red Cross Swimming Lessons in Valemount The Valemount Learning Centre is starting Red Cross Swimming Lessons the week of August 27 to 31, (Monday to Friday). Please call (250) 566 4601 to register your child.

Words of Whimsy Naomi Balla-Boudreau is “Calling teen writers!” Mariah Blixrud will be leading Words of Whimsy: a creative writing group for teens on Tuesday evenings, at 7 p.m. at the McBride and District Public Library. If you want space to write or you’re looking for inspiration, stop by. This is for ages 13 and up.

Roll Up The Streets – Street Hockey and Bowling in McBride The McBride Youth Committee is hosting a third event on Wednesday, August 8 starting about 6 p.m. They will be closing off Main Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues (more if required) and bringing out the hockey nets. Bring your sticks

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 9

and equipment or just a lawn chair to watch the games for a great early evening of good food, good fun and community. And just for laughs, they will be trying out a new event - street bowling. Come out and see how that goes. Please share this with your friends and come out for some great family fun.

Hot Summer Reads Program at the McBride & District Public Library Throughout the summer the McBride & District Public Library will be maintaining a Hot Summer Reads program! Come and enjoy a selection of popular books and win prizes in the process! Stop by the library and pick up one of their well received, hand picked books from the display shelf by the front desk.

If you finish reading one, be sure to grab a review slip and tell them what you thought about it. You’ll be entered into a random draw which will give one lucky reviewer a prize every week! For more details and a complete list of all accepted books, contact the library staff.

Community Supporting Community Benefit Extends a Thanks to You! According to Sherral Vowk Shaw, the Community Supporting Community Benefit raised a total of $12,000.00 in donations! She says, “A committee of local women have made the decision to divide the funds equally among five local women battling cancer at this time…Each and every one of these brave women would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of you who participated in this effort.”

Mayor McCracken and the Travelling Mohawk At a recent Village of Valemount Council meeting, Mayor McCracken shared that he recently took his new hot pink mohawk to a Regional District FraserFort George meeting in Prince George and was received well. Apparently his fellow board members assumed it was for a fundraiser, which is was; however, on the streets of Prince George it was a different story…

Got a Tip? If you have a note idea or tip, or would like to share your event or happening with us, you are encouraged to contact Donalda Beeson at donalda@thevalleysentinel.com or The Valley Sentinel (250) 566 4425. Please note that all items for publication on the Wednesday issue must be in by the previous Friday.

“Adrenaline weekend”

Above: Drag racers from all over British Columbia and Alberta will descend upon the Canoe Mountain Rodeo grounds on Saturday and Sunday, August 4-5, 2012.

Archive Photo by Andrea Scholz

Dragging Dirty Donalda Beeson Contributor

I

t is that time of year again when getting down and dirty at the Canoe Mountain Rodeo Grounds is highly encouraged. This year’s third annual North West Mud Racing Association’s 200 foot Side by Side Mud Races are sure to be a gnarly mess and feature locals and members of the mud racing association alike. Come check out Northern America’s dirtiest, biggest, fastest, and baddest four by four dragsters in excess of 2500 horsepower. There will be a bog pit, approximately three feet deep and 50 to 75 feet long.

The gates open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 4, with the racing scheduled to start at 2 p.m., continuing until approximately 6 p.m. However, the party does not stop there; there will be a dance Saturday night starting at 9 p.m.

Gates will open again the next morning at 10 a.m. Sunday, August 5, with racing scheduled to start at noon and continue until approximately 4 p.m. The beer gardens open at 11 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, and there will be a concession and vendors on-site.

If you are interested in trying your luck in the races, you must register by 10 a.m. on Saturday to participate. Signed waivers are mandatory for all participants and spectators.

General admission is $20, and kids under seven can come watch for free!

There will be autographs and free posters signed and given out at half time.

For more information, please call Lorna at (250) 566 4500.

Gary Schwartz Farrier Service

McBride, BC

250-569-3319

10 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

BUSINESS WATCH

Country Chic: Natural beauty meets modern style Daniel Betts EDITOR

A

new business on Main Street in McBride, B.C. is certainly a welcome sight.

Filling a long needed community service gap, Country Chic Beauty Salon, opened its doors to the public on July 20, 2012. Owners, Ashley Chuipka, makeup artist and hairstylist, and Jennette Chuipka, certified esthetician are newcomers to the business world but are certainly not strangers to McBride, both having lived in the community for their entire lives.

Ashley received her make-up artist training at the world renowned John Casablanca Institute in Vancouver, B.C., where she participated in their yearlong Makeup Program. During her training she had the opportunity to build her portfolio and challenge her artistic ability on BCIT students who were filming a zombie movie. Examples of her work can be found at their new salon. She also had a part-time summer job at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) airbrushing tattoos. Ashley was also schooled in hairstyling at the Loxx Academy of Hair Design Inc. in Prince George, B.C., which offers a 10-month cosmetology program that is delivered through scientific step-by-step hands on learning.

“I started pursuing a career in teaching, but decided I was too artistic to be doing that,” said Ashley with amusement. “I always wanted to have my own business.” She says the idea for the business came about last year when they decided, “we are going to do this.”

Jennette received her esthetician training in Prince George, B.C. at Ms. Lorea’s College of Esthetics & Nail Technology Inc. “Since everyone found out we were opening we’ve had unbelievable support,” said Jennette. “It’s been a little humbling.” She says the idea for the business was born from wanting to do “something” in McBride.

“I’ve lived here since I was three. I’ve always had a vision of doing something in McBride for a few years,” said Jennette. At first she considered massage therapy, but didn’t feel three years of going to school would fit in with her plans. When Ashley decided to go into hairdressing, it was suggested she take esthetics, the business became the logical next step for both talented entrepreneurs. “It just kinda fell into place,” admits Jennette.

Having just started the business, plans for the future will be considered based on need. Currently there are plans for a massage therapist to visit twice a week. Down the road, they are considering a reflexologist as well as ear piercings. “We will expand if we feel there is a need,” said Jennette.

Country Chic Beauty Salon is located at 411 Main Street at the former Balcaen Electronics building, which has received spectacular new renovations. They are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For an appointment please call (250) 569 2344.

“Get pampered in McBride”

Above: Getting a little pampering after a long week in high heels, Keri-Lynn Parlette is enjoying a pedicure from Jennette Chuipka at the new Country Chic Beauty Salon in McBride, B.C. on July 29, 2012.

Below: Val Keim gets her hair styled by Ashley Chuipka. Makes for a nice relaxing Saturday afternoon after a long work week.

Photos by Astrid Frazier Left: After weeks of work painting and preparing, the salon is ready for customers at Country Chic’s grand opening on July 20, 2012.

Photo by Andrea Scholz

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 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

Licensed Property Manager * Handyman Services * Design Consulting

rusticluxury@telus.net

Drywall ServiceS Boarding Taping Textured Ceilings

Call Todd At Wahoo Enterprises (250) 569-0320 “Serving The Robson Valley For Over 15 Years”

www.rusticluxury.com

plumbing & heating Greg McNee Insured & Reliable Seniors - show this ad & receive a 10% discount

Cell: 250 566 1687

Lakewest

Jen Applebaum 250.566.4005 Office 250.566.1323 Cell Valemount

WESTRIDGE

N APA Automotive Parts & Repairs 1140 Main Street Phone: (250) 566-9774 Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Fax: (250) 566-9771

Enterprises

• Redi-Mix Concrete • Lock-Blocks • Crushed Gravel ~New Grader~ • Gravel Truck

Phone: (250) 566-4585

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR DIRECTORY FOR ONLY $12.50 PER WEEK.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR NEWSPAPER

250-566-4425

sentinel THE VALLEY

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Security Web Alarm Systems

Security Web A lArm SyStemS SECURITY WEB ALARM SYSTEMS 24 hr monitoring - 1.888.564.8585

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.

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Serving McBride, Dunster, • Serving McBride, Dunster, www.securityweb.ca Valemount & Mt. Robson.

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250-566-1536 888-564-8585 www.securityweb.ca

Harry Carson 250.640.8412 Mike Dryden 250.566.1536 Harry Carson 1.888.564.8585 • Mike Dryden 250.566.1536

Rex’s Recycling Tuesday - Wednesday 1 - 4pm Thursday - Friday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Closed - Sunday & Monday Now offering full refund on all beer bottles and cans.

Pickups can be arranged - Call Liz or Kim Everard:

250 • 566 • 9111 Reduce - Reuse - Recycle “Free Down Payment Mortgages”

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 11

Returning Flow Acupuncture

Wednesday & Friday in Valemount

Thursdays in McBride Micah Yoder, Registered Acupuncturist

Phone: 250-566-1782 JASPER

sentinel THE VALLEY

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

Celebrating 25 Years ~since 1986~ Reliable Verified Recognized Professional Engaging Experienced

TREKS & TRAVEL Phone: 780-852-5473 Toll Free: 1-888-437-2483

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.

African safari - “A once in a lifetime dream holiday”.

Disney and last minute packages to the sun.

Patricia Theriault Marrek

#200B - 610 Connaught Dr., Jasper, AB

Travis Automobile Services

The Source Tree Service

250-566-8403

Pruning, Removals, Tree Planting, Pine Beetle Assessment & Control

Hwy 5 N. Box 1035 Valemount, B.C.

Inspection Facility, Licensed Automotive & Heavy Duty Techs.

• • • •

We specialize in: Diesel Engine Repair, 4x4 Repair, Snowmobiles, & Misc. Repairs

•

Welding

•

Lathe Work

•

Tire Sales

ISA Certified Arborist Certified Utility Arborist WCB Certified Faller Fully Insured

Brendan Taylor (250) 566-1119

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

NEW LIFE CENTRE

1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824

Sunday School 10am.

Family Worship 10:30am.

Prayer meeting Thurs 7pm

Donairs - Burgers - Middle East Cuisine - Baklava Dine in or take out

250-566-4453

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES

Located in the Karas Mall, Valemount

250 968-4349 or 250 566-4568 Sunday-3 pm, Sun. School 3 pm

Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 am - 11:00 pm Sunday 12:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Mondays

VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 250 566-9996

Industrial Steam Cleaning & Pressure Washing

YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER

Self-Contained Mobile Unit serving the Robson Valley

Sales Service 250-566-1324 Installation 1-800-424-6331

Glacier Ridge Services Ltd. Chris (250) 566-1046 or Ray (250)566-1578

Robson Valley Construction & Redi Mix Concrete

Sands Bulk Sales LTD Husky Oil Limited

845 Cedarside Rd. Valemount BC Phone: 250-566-4818 or 1-866-566-4818 Fax: 250-566-4815 Cardlock and bulk plant facility Fuel truck for all your delivery needs

John McGuire 250.566.6801 or 250.566.1216 greenstarfsi@gmail.com 1012 3rd Avenue PO Box 967, Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0

• GIS Services • Timber Cruising • GPS & Mapping • Forest Development • Total Chance Planning • Visual Impact Assessment • MPB Assessment & Control

General Contractor: residential & commercial Excavation: clearing, driveways & septic systems Concrete: redi mix concrete, finish work, stamps, forming (250) 569-2593 Gravel sales P.O. Box 474 McBride, BC V0J2E0

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 ahaugk@telus.net

a rt Ly tt le C

age

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

Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

DUNSTER

ROCKO’S CHURCH

Sun. 11:00 am Home group meeting at Rod & Deb Reimer’s - Brown Road, Dunster. 250 968-4335.

MCBRIDE

ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 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 August 1, 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 HEAVY EQUIPMENT

Feller Buncher 227 Cat, new motor, good undercarriage, most of this machine is rebuilt. Price $21,500 obo. Call 250566-2471 GTS JULY 25

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.

1988 Steel Gooseneck Stock Trailer, floor length, 17’10” long. Roof extension to 7’10”, width inside 6’6”. Asking $1,600. Call 250-968-4321

GTS JAN 25

Good used sea containers for sale. McBride area $3,650, Valemount $3,500 Delivered. We accept Visa/ MC 250-314-9522

EMPLOYMENT

JOB POSTING

The Dunster Fine Arts School Society is seeking to hire a project manager on a contract basis to co-ordinate and oversee various construction projects and capital purchases.

This position will be approximately 8 hours per week starting August 13th and continuing until the end of 2012.

Expressions of interest will be accepted until 4 pm, August 7th and should include a resume.

Applicants should be able to work independently but under the direction of the Board.

Duties will include: • Preparing and advertising requests for bids on construction projects.

• Overseeing constructions projects and dealing with contractors.

• Purchasing various capital assets for the Society.

• Consulting and working well with the DFASS Board.

Contract fees to be negotiated.

Send to Dunster Fine Arts School Society, Box 2, Dunster BC V0J 1J0 or E-mail to peteam@telus.net OBITUARY

TRAILER FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

AUTOMOBILES

OBITUARY

Francis James “Frank” BARON July 30, 1934 – July 14, 2012

GTS JUNE 27

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

AUG 15

FOOD/LIVESTOCK

Large Russian Garlic bulbs, 20 month old purebred jersey heifer, and kids pony.

Contact 250-968-4356 GTS MAY 2

LEGAL SERVICES

LIVESTOCK / HAY

Grazing lease available for cows, fenced pasture with grass and water available.

Call Terracana for details.

250-968-4304 DIAL-A-LAW: Access free information on BC law.

604.687.4680; 1.800.565.5297; www.dialalaw.org (audio available).

LAWYER REFERRAL SERVICE: Need a lawyer?

Learn more by calling 604.687.3221; 1.800.663.1919.

TFN OCT 5

SERVICES

WELL PUMPING & CLEANING 25 ft. deep or less.

EMPLOYMENT

Invitation to Tender

The McBride Anglican United Church is inviting bids for the project of removing old windows, installing new windows, exterior insulation, and siding, including trim, corners, and gable ends, on the McBride Anglican United Church building, 459 Dominion Street, McBride BC. Windows, Insulation, Siding, Trim and Gable End Fibre board supplied.

Bids to be submitted to: McBride Anglican United Church, C/O Eleanor Johnson, Secretary, Box 284, McBride, BC V0J 2E0.

Closing date: Monday, August 13, 2012. The lowest or any Tender may not necessarily be accepted. We reserve the right to accept or refuse any or all bids.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Horsefly Community Hall, Horsefly, BC, on August 11, 2012, from 2-4 p.m.

On-line condolences may be expressed at www.NorthThompsonFuneral.com

#002-1

4 Bdrm / 2 bath family home w/full finished basement, fenced yard & workshop. New high efficiency wood stove + electric heat.

Pet ok, no smoking. $900 2 Bdrm trailer with 1/2 addition + covered deck in Cranberry MH Park. Vaulted ceilings, skylights, cozy wood finishes. Electric/wood heat. $600 Mtnview Apts. No smoking, no pets, clean and quiet building. 2 Bedroom-$575 Bachelor-$375 Garden level, unfurnished 2 bdrm suite in 4-plex. Very spacious and bright. No pets, no smoking. $570 Furnished 2 bdrm in 4-plex. 1000 sq. feet!

Laundry now provided. $675 Fully furnished 2 bedroom house. New construction, great location on 7th Ave. Small pet ok, no smoking. Electric/wood heat. $750.

#021-1

EMPLOYMENT

#024

#026-A #026-C #031

Photos and details at

www.rusticluxury.com Call Jen 250-566-1323

TFN OCT 5

Hay for sale, $40 a round bale. Call Terracana 250968-4304

Call Frank 250-566-9707 EMPLOYMENT

RENTALS

RENTAL LISTINGS VALEMOUNT REAL ESTATE

GTS JUNE 20

Please call Betty Long @ 250-569-3386 to arrange site viewing.

Survived by partner Doris Mutschele; sisters Doris, Mae and Vi; brother Mike and numerous nieces, nephews and good friends. Frank was a “child at heart”. He was an enthusiastic sportsman and was involved in logger sports for years.

Frank never met a child he didn’t love and, over the years, he supported and coached many kids in logger sports. Frank loved the outdoors, spending his life trapping, logging, fishing and hunting. Frank embraced life and is leaving us with many fond memories.

RENTALS

EMPLOYMENT

DECK REPLACEMENT

REQUEST FOR BIDS

The McBride Hospital is rebuilding the deck off the back of the Day Room in the garden area. This will involve tearing out the existing deck and sunshade, and replacing them with similar style construction. CSA Infection Control standard CSA Z317.13-03 must be adhered to during all phases of construction.

Interested parties should contact Jamie Ford (250)569-2251 x2023 for details or a viewing.

RENTALS

RENTALS

2-bed plus loft house. W/D included, fenced yard.

Woodheat, baseboard backup. Recently painted & new laminate on main.

In Valemount. $650/mo.

Phone (250) 566-4583 AUG 8

Furnished Suites / Cabins and furnished 2 Bedroom Home with kitchenette, TV – long-term Contact: 250566-9884 email ideal4@ gmail.com AUG 8

5 bedroom 2 bath home in nice Valemount neighbourhood. Renovated bathroom, modern deluxe kitchen, appliances, washer and dryer included. Large family room.

Fenced yard. No smoking, pets negotiable. $1200/month plus deposit.

Available Sept 1 or sooner.

Call 250-566-5375.

AUG 8

Three bedroom mobile on large lot with large workshop on quiet street in Valemount. Nonsmoking, pets negotiable. Available i m m e d i a t e l y. $ 5 5 0 . 0 0 .

780-305-9200 evenings.

TFN JULY 11

PUT YOUR GARAGE SALE IN THE VALLEY SENTINEL CLASSIFIEDS 250-566-4425 - ONLY $6/WEEK

New at the McBride Public Library Adult fiction

Canada – Richard Ford The Measure of Katie Calloway- Serena Miller The Borgia Mistress – Sara Poole Wolf Hall- Hilary Mantel

Adult Non-fiction

My Year Of the Racehorse- Kevin Chong Rails Across the Prairies- Ron Brown Gold Panner’s Manual- Garnet Basque French Phrasebook & Dictionary- Lonely Planet

Junior

Marley: Farm dog – Susan Hill Middle School: Get me out of here!- James Patterson Artemis Fowl: The Last Guard- Eoin Colfer Changeling- Philippa Gregory

DVDs

El Dorado Sweet November The Code The Shunning We’ve got Summer Reading Club adventures! Come register and keep an eye out for our Strange but True programs all summer long.

www. mcbride.bclibrary.ca

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 13

caribou joe

Episode 40: SAM LOOKS BACK Previously, Constable Bigumpound stops a hanging on the Mile 53 Dock.

While on their trek back towards the Siems-Carey Office Sam gave Joe more details of his experiences at the ship-building yards at Mile 51.

“Last year I had a job building the skid-ways and slip-ways at Mile 51. During the time when we were busy doing the skid-ways, parts of the Conveyor and Operator were arriving all the time. Those steamships came all the way from Victoria.

Foley, Welsh and Steward had them disassembled and the pieces were shipped up here in ten railway cars. The train that brought them came up to Calgary from New Westminster, by way of Victoria, then over to Edmonton and Fitzhugh (Jasper). From there the parts were shipped to Resplendent and were packed over here, to Tête Jaune, on the tote road. It was a tough job for them freighters. The two engine boilers took two and a half months to get here and travelled down the Fraser River and over two hefty waterfalls!” (Rearguard and Overlander Falls) Sam continued, “When the boat-builders had the hulls reassembled we slid them into the water and down stream to Mile 52. That’s when we tried getting them past the bend in the river. The water was so shallow, engineers set up donkey-engines to winch the boats over the gravel bed. We finally got the hulls down to the wharfs at Mile 53 where the reconstruction was completed.”

Joe interrupted, “When do the paddle-wheelers come back for their second season?”

“Well,” said Sam, “I figure, any time now they’ll be getting ready to send them back down from South Fort George.”

When they came near the office building, Sam went in first to explain about the river accident and the loss of one of the company’s canoes.

Ten minutes later Joe was given the ‘All Clear’ signal from Sam who stood smiling in the doorway. He came outside for a smoke. Now it was his partner’s turn.

Mr. Bates welcomed Joe as he entered the room and then announced, “I’ve got

news for you, Joe! The B.C. Express Shipping Company is looking for additional crew members for the coming season. They’re hiring men to work on their main steamship, the B.C. Express.”

Working on a paddle-wheeler sounds good to me, thought Joe to himself. This could be a real turning point in my life. Who knows? I may even get to be Captain someday.

“Well, what do you think of their offer?” enquired Bates. “I think you should take the job.”

Joe looked out the shipping of “An old chimney at Mile 53” fice window. Sam was smoking a

Photo by L.L.Frazer cigar on the front steps. He turned to Bates and said, “Yes, I’ll take that job. Where do I sign up?”

The next episode is THE CAPTAIN’S TOUR. Captain Baker arrives at Tête Jaune Cache and prepares for an inspection trip of the Fraser River.

The ART OF CARIBOU JOE

1305 7.30.2012

Leonard Frazer Contributor

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EXPERIENCED PARTS PERSON and an Inventory Clerk are required for a progressive auto/industrial supplier. Hired applicant will receive top wages, full benefits and RRSP bonuses plus moving allowances. Our 26,000ft2 store is located 2.5 hours N.E. of Edmonton, Alberta. See our community at LacLaBicheRegion.com.

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Introduction Welcome to a new feature exclusive to The Valley Sentinel. The individual artworks commissioned for the Caribou Joe series each have a story to tell and will be explored here. Author, Leonard Frazer, will share a behind the scenes look at each picture and artist. Our local history comes alive, in The Art Of Caribou Joe. Part 1 The Valemount Hotel, an etching by James Vanslyk, was done in the late 50’s or early 60’s. I first saw an original Vanslyk in l963 while visiting my father in Valemount. That particular piece was a block of wood that had been carved to illustrate a side view of the old four-room Valemount Jr. Secondary School. The school carving was three dimensional with little panes of glass in the windows made out of mica. The carving was a wonderful work of art and was, for several years, on display in the school’s trophy display cabinet. Unfortunately someone stole the piece and it was never seen again. The Valemount Historic Society has two similar Vanslyk three dimensional carvings as well as some etchings and smaller artwork on display at the Valemount Museum. Also included in the display is today’s featured etching of the Valemount Hotel.

The Valemount Hotel has experienced multiple renovations over the years. Usually, when there was an exchange of owners, modifications were done to the building. However, the Vanslyk work best represents what the structure looked like when, “I first met Joe in the lobby of the Valemount Hotel,” which is the first sentence of all three versions of Caribou Joe, the story.

Next time, in the Art Of Caribou Joe, an original drawing will be presented helping to illustrate how “Caribou Joe” got his name.

14 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

ACTIVITIES

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

by MICHAEL O’CONNOR Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) As the heat rises the tempo is increasing. Efforts to remain focused are a consequence and may manifest as controlling tendencies. At best, it will ignite creative inspirations yet you will still feel the impulse to ‘direct the show’. Your sense of individuality is likely running high activating rebellious attitudes. Communicate your needs for room or freedom, lest elbows fly.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) You are on a creative roll; ‘steamroller’ might be a good description. You feel determined and perhaps compelled to cover a lot of ground. Mixing social activity with work is ideal, yet work will likely come before pleasure this time. With creativity woven in you will feel happy anyway.

Covering a lot of ground on the fly will require flexibility in your plans.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) A dynamic cycle is underway for you. Mercury Rx aside, you are in a good position to advance your position somehow. You’re already creative proclivities are rising. A willingness to take risks and to experience and at least sample new prospects is important. The biggest challenge will be overcoming tendencies to take on too much and scatter your focus.

Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) Establishing new foundations implies investment of some kind. It is important that you be willing to give to situations more fully now. You may not feel as confident as you like and this feeling may remain until this time next year. That is probably far too long to wait so you are challenged to ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’ again…

Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) The Sun in your sign suggest that this is a time for deliberate initiative. Your focus stands to be sharper than usual, believe it or not, thanks to Mercury Rx also in your sign. However, this will soon change so take a lead now and at least initiate things. Your focus may be less sharp for the next few weeks but as long as you have activated leads to work on you should feel productive.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Getting a lot done behind the scenes is the call now. This may well include nurturing creative possibilities. It is out of such cycles that some of our most creative and imaginative ideas and visions can emerge. It may be more a time to conceive than weave the dreams, however. So be

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

ready with your sketch pad or whatever you require to draft big ideas and plans.

Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Expressing a fuller measure of your individuality will feel strong now. Increased self-reliance is implied. You may be encountering unique people and some real characters too. They are destined to help you stand your ground more firmly and not lean or hold undue expectations. You may feel more friendly and/or impersonal than romantic; if so flow with it.

Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) Desires to be seen and heard are running high now. Yet, feeling as confident as you like may be an issue. Also, the lines of communication and action may be more like a zigzag than anything direct. At best you feel innovative. A search for excitement implies breaking free from anything mundane. Use this opportunity to try something new and/or venture where you have not before.

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) The urge to break free somehow continues. You may feel increasingly less inclined to share your thoughts and feelings, for now anyway. Yet, your scope of connections stands to be increasing.

These are likely to prove beneficial and pleasing and even have a future. If you are yearning for companionship or partnership you’re chances are very good now so reach out.

Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Purging and clearing the way is a likely focus now, as is identifying and accessing the gifts, talents and resources of others. To succeed however, you must be willing to give more than you might normally. Doing so could make you nervous, however. At least be willing to negotiate a very fair deal and be the first to demonstrate commitment.

Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) A lively if hectic and even somewhat crazy time on relationship fronts is likely now. Amidst an otherwise satisfying series of exchanges, you may have to contend with the fixed attitudes, opinions and behaviour patters of others. You’re challenge is to maintain a diplomatic stance where the equation is tilted to at least 51% in favour of you assuming a creative lead.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) A process of increasing your confidence levels continues. Elevating health levels implies more knowledge and disciplined follow-through. This focus on health may be directed towards the quality of your work or services rendered as well as that of your overall constitution. Your keys to confidence now include better health and more efficiency.

Local Government

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday August 1, 2012 • 15

Village of Valemount Council Briefs Donalda Beeson Contributor

Councillor Blanchette seconded this motion.

T

he regularly scheduled council meeting for the Village of Valemount was held on July 24, 2012. Mayor Andru McCracken, Councillors Christine Latimer, Hollie Blanchette, Sandy Salt, and Dallas Bullock, Deputy Corporate Officer (DCO) Anne Yanciw who is also acting as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), as well as Administrative Assistant Heather Funk were all in attendance.

Committee of the Whole: Council conducted a Committee of the Whole regarding the potential Federal Electoral Boundary changes.

We are being moved from the Kamloops riding to the Prince George-Peace River Federal Electoral Boundary riding; however they are open to feedback. Comments included: the importance of consistency for fair representation. It was pointed out that Kamloops has grown past its quota and is scheduled to grow more. It was noted that we have been well served by Cathy McLeod our current MP. It was suggested by the Mayor in his report that we consider being part of the Kootenay-Columbia riding. Council opted to do some more homework and research, as well as talk to McBride for input.

The timeframe to respond by is sometime in August.

Correspondence for Action: Nordli Re: Valemount Logo and Pins Councillor Bullock made a motion to receive and accept a letter from previous councillor Joan Nordli regarding council’s carried motion to change the Village logo, especially during Valemount’s 50th anniversary of incorporation. To which council explained their reasons, and gave support to their decision.

Information Items: Councillor Bullock asked if, regarding the CBT Helps Communities application for federal funding letter, “are we on this?” Councillor Latimer asked if the smart meter installation is a problem within our community.

Councillor Salt asked if our sewer system is up to standards. Mayor McCracken brought forward the Canadians Living with Disabilities letter, asking if they could bring it to the community’s attention to see how they are getting by, perhaps involving the media.

Administrative Reports: Sprinkler in Centennial Park Councillor Bullock made a motion to continue the experiment and continue to monitor it until staff has come up with another solution, giving post-approval for the Play Sprinkler for children to play in at Centennial Park, with the following conditions and times: on days where the temperature is 24 degrees or more, between 12:00 and 2:45 p.m. They will consider the following concerns and criticisms: The sprinkler is turned off just when the hottest part of the day is beginning. The sprinkler (a high volume “cannon”), puts out a lot of water, even when the gate mechanism is almost completely closed. Older children have been seen standing on the sprinkler, and it could easily be damaged or ruined through abuse (these sprinklers cost approximately $1000). Ensuring that the sprinkler is set up and put away at the correct times is an additional encumbrance on Public Works. In addition, the possible negative effect on the grass. These concerns could be addressed through either cancelling the running of the sprinkler, or by installing a different system.

This different system would consist of a buried hose, a smaller sprinkler that only puts out a very gentle spray, and a timer (ideally a 10 minute timer that could be set by anyone wanting to play in the sprinkler.) A few safeguards to discourage theft would also likely be wise.

Project Status Update: Councillor Blanchette made a motion to receive the following Project Status Updates: Community Hall Renovations Swift Creek Emergency Response Swift Creek Emergency Recovery Leak into Village Office Bylaw Adjudication Process Courthouse Renovations VARDA building Village of Valemount Entrance sign New Logo Wood stove Exchange Program Accessible doors for the Visitor Information Centre Coucillor Bullock seconded the motion.

Please Note: Details of these reports will be featured in our next issue of The Valley Sentinel.

Financial Report: Asset Disposal Process Mayor McCracken made a motion to accept the report on Asset Disposal Process and in particular how to dispose of the Community Hall tables and chairs.

Council Reports: Council accepted the individual Councillor Reports this week.

Public Comment: Owen Torgerson made a point about Kinder Morgan regarding sewer recommendations, and asked that the Water Ambassador thought about the Sprinklers in Centennial Park. He suggested a Garage Sale for village assets. He asked why the Wild Fire Committee goes on break during the high risk summer months.

Jeannette Townsend feels a mistake was made and it is inappropriate for a dually incorporated municipality to adopt the Tourism logo.

It should be a coat of arms.

Rita Tchir wants to know what the final cost will be to the taxpayers regarding the logo change.

Peter Felmark loves the new logo and is wondering why he wasn’t on the agenda as he had been told he would be. Mayor McCracken asked that a formal thank you be given to the donor of the benches as per Felmark’s mention.

Peter Fox wondered if the 1 per cent Hotel Tax Revenue went towards the entrance sign. He is in favour of increasing the disabilities payout. Regarding adjudication he is wondering if a particular councillor will be responsible for dealing with matters. Regarding Electoral Boundary changes, he suggested that perhaps if council is going to enquire with McBride also enquire with other small communities in the Columbia Kootenay electoral dis-

Valemount Real Estate Ltd. Property Management

Jen Applebaum Managing Broker

Local rental listings and management services www.valemountlistings.com www.rusticluxury.com

250-566-1323

rusticluxury@telus.net

trict. He also wants to know if we would still be in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.

Jeannette Townsend informed council that when she was Mayor they did consider being a part of the Kootenay-Columbia electoral district.

Louise McLean is concerned about the “disaster of a parking lot by the Post Office”. She wishes to collect her mail without having to wear gumboots. Mayor McCracken made a motion to send a letter out to the property owner regarding this issue.

Peter Fox is concerned about traffic signs outside Karas mall.

Joan Nordli is concerned about the drainage by the Government building. She enforced that when doing the Swift Creek recovery work to be sure to include the fish ladder. She asked for further information regarding the mention of removing asbestos in the community hall. Regarding the electoral regions we are “always the beginning or the end.” She also asked why we have no bylaw officer now.

To clear up anything mentioned in these notes, please contact Donalda Beeson at The Valley Sentinel, at donalda@thevalleysentinel.com. For more information, concerning anything mentioned at the Council meetings please contact the Village Office and note that, as always, the public is more than welcome to attend these meetings, as well as make a delegation or public comment, on the second and fourth Tuesday’s of every month at 7 p.m. sharp in the Village of Valemount Council Chambers.

16 • Wednesday August 1, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

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$

11944 Essen Road tete Jaune , BC

• 4.7 acres w/Village water • Well maintained mobile • Large shop & outbuildings • Great gardens

1520 Dorval Road $162,000 MCBride, BC

• 3 bedroom, 2 bath • Fenced yard, garage, and landscaped • All immaculate condition

• Over 4,000 square feet • 4/5 bedrooms, 3 baths • Vaulted ceiling • Over 2 acres minutes from McBride

• 32 acre mountain retreat • Custom log home • Glacier views • Surrounded by Crown Land

1480 - 7th Ave. Valemount, BC

250-569-7397 Irene Berndsen 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 ED R U T A FE G LISTIN

6 BEDROOM LOG HOME Big kitchen - Brick fireplace 2 Lots - 3 levels

$329,000

PERFECT STARTER 3 bedroom - New bath - New roof Lots of renos - New deck

$169,000

PICTURE PERFECT VIEWS!

5 bedrooms - 2 bath - Island kitchen Spacious dining room - Large deck 2.5 acres - Guest cabin - Private yard

$419,900

GROWING FAMILY 4 bedroom - Full basement Garage - Deck - Fenced Yard

PRICE W E N VALUE PACKED 3 bedroom - 2 bath - Garage Island kitchen - Double lot

$334,000

$199,000

NG

LISTI W E N

LOTS & ACREAGES

FIXER UPPER

80 ACRES Close to town - Old growth timber Spectacular views - Subdivision potential

$350,000

2 bedroom - one level Nice views $59,000

MULTIPLE REVENUE PROPERTY

3 rental units -Good investment Large paved parking - Two buildings $189,000

SERVICED TOWN LOTS $37,900 ACREAGES 1 ACRE - 5 ACRES $69,000 - $149,000 CHECK OUT WEBSITE FOR DETAILS www.valemountlistings.com

Call Tammy TODAY for more information on these properties and more.

Tammy Van de Nobelen Owner & Sales Associate

Visit www.valemountlistings.com

Cell: 250.566.1025 • Office: 250.566.0021 - 1418 Bruce Place, Valemount, BC

Jeannette Townsend Managing Broker