Volume 27 Issue 9 by The Valley Sentinel

sentinel YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

WEDNESDAY February 29, 2012 $1.16 Plus HST

Volume  Issue  www.thevalleysentinel.com

SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY SINCE 1986

THE VALLEY

INCLUDING THE COMMUNITIES OF VALEMOUNT, MCBRIDE, DUNSTER, TETE JAUNE, BLUE RIVER, MOUNT ROBSON, CRESCENT SPUR AND DOME CREEK

WEATHER

Mini-Racers

MOSTLY SUNNY High: -1°C Low: -12°C Details pg 14

CPP HELP- PAGE 2

SPAGHETTI! - PAGE 7

WINTER FESTIVAL - PAGE 8 AND 9

“Fast means win!”

Above: On Saturday, February 25 Nyome Voth (Left) and Corbin Cinnamon (Right) raced against each other during the Snowmobile Drag Races held for this years Valemount Winter Festival. Sitting in the snow, Colby Voth looks on. Photo by Donalda Beeson

Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

IN THE ZONE - PAGE 15

he only two mini-racers at last weekend’s Snowmobile Drag Races in Valemount were both local. Four year old Nyome Voth is obviously a natural born snowmobile racer because according to her she just practiced a little bit. Nyome said “the greatest thing about snowmobiling is putting tracks in the snow,” and “catching snowflakes on your tongue.” This was her first race but she plans to race again next year.

Nyome’s opponent Corbin Cinnamon told the Sentinel that no one taught him to snowmobile, he just taught himself, and no one taught him to go fast either, just his “snowmobile goes fast.” Corbin, who won the kids race, said the secret to racing fast is remember “fast means win,” and the most important thing you can do when drag racing is “stay on your seat.” The best part of the day for Corbin was that it was also his fourth birthday and his mom brought cupcakes. Corbin’s mom Emelia Cinnamon and his dad Joel Cinnamon also raced;

however it seems they will be taking lessons from their son Corbin who was the only member of the family to take home a medal, though Joel proudly wore Corbin’s all night. Emelia said it’s evident who the racer in the family is, referring to her son Corbin. Though she raced sleds in the mud drags this was her first ever snow drag. She said you need to be really fast on the green light, and it helps if you have an awesome husband to soup up your sled. Despite his coming in “dead last”, Joel said the whole family will be racing again next year.

2 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

UPFront

BC Hydro considering three options for valley power upgrades Daniel Betts Editor

inally, power upgrades for the valley are being considered by BC Hydro. According to Jennifer Walker-Larsen, Stakeholder Engagement Advisor for BC Hydro, a planning study this spring will take three options into consideration for reinforcing power along the North Thompson Transmission Line. Walker-Larsen noted the study will take some time to complete but it is hoped it will be completed by late spring. Following the study, B.C. Hydro will have a much clearer idea of the next steps. “Once our decision is made we will have a much better idea of scope,” said Walker-Larsen. She added regulatory approvals might be required as well as an environmental assessment. Under consideration is a new, 100 km, transmission line from 100 Mile

House, B.C. to Clearwater, B.C., a new, 85 km transmission line, requiring a substation, from the Mica Dam to Nicola and going overland to Vavenby, B.C. or an additional line running between Brocklehurst, B.C. and Vavenby, B.C.. The later option was considered least technically preferred by preliminary analysis. Walker-Larsen noted the existing transmission line serves current customer needs but lacks the ability to expand and service potential new industrial applications, which would have a greater need for power. The planning study will consider the best option to deliver more power to the region, including any property considerations and environmental concerns. Walker-Larsen noted that in their experience it takes anywhere from four to six years to build a new transmission line and much of that time is taken up with regulatory approvals, environmental assessments and property use concerns.

Two Seminars in one day hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Marie Birkbeck Contributor

he Golden Years Lodge meeting room was abuzz with activity on Tuesday, February 21. Valemount & Area Chamber of Commerce hosted two information packed seminars; a representative from Canada Revenue Agency presented the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) and Service Canada addressed the recent changes in Canada Pension Plan (CPP). The morning started off with Myrna Giese from CRA discussing CVITP. Since 1971 CRA has partnered with community organizations to help people complete their income tax returns. To our knowledge this is the first time this program has been brought to the Robson Valley area; many of us in attendance were there for information only, although at the time of writing, there were two community members that had signed up. Under the direction of a CRA coordinator, it becomes a win-win situation. Volunteers of the community are trained to prepare income tax returns, at no charge, for low-income individuals or families with simple tax situations. A single person with income up to $25,000, a couple earning up to $35,000 or an adult with one child earning up to $30,000 may be eligible for this service. Volunteers are not permitted to file tax returns for deceased persons, individuals who have filed for bankruptcy, or the self-employed, among others. Whether you want to Lend a Hand and become a Community Volunteer or Need a Hand filing your tax return, please contact Laureen Harvey at 1-888-8056662 or email her at laureen.harvey@cra-arc.gc.ca The afternoon session, focused on all the recent changes to the CPP that will be phased in over the

next five years, and how they affect employers and employees. Carole Morrison, a familiar face in Valemount told us that because Canadians on the whole are living longer healthier lives, which create opportunity for employment later in life, the amendments were necessary to ensure the plan remains fair and secure for all. Of course everyone’s individual circumstances will vary and dictate whether you begin collecting at age 60, or wait until you are 70. The four key amendments are as follows: • Adjustment Factors: Your monthly CPP retirement pension will increase by a larger percentage if you take it after age 65. Your monthly CPP retirement pension will decrease by a larger percentage if you take it before age 65 • Mandatory Contributions: If you are under 65 and work while receiving CPP, you and your employer will have to make CPP contributions. These contributions will increase your CPP retirement benefits. If you are between ages of 65 – 70 and work while receiving CPP, It is optional to continue to make CPP contributions. • Enhanced drop out Provision: The number of years of low or zero earnings that are automatically dropped from the calculation will gradually increase from 15% to 17% over the next two years. • Eliminate Work Cessation: Beginning in 2012, you will now be able to begin receiving your CPP without any work interruption. Prior to 2012, if you chose to collect CPP early, you had to either stop working or significantly decrease your earnings for at least two months. For more detailed information on the Canada Pension Plan or other Service Canada programs, please visit servicecanada.gc.ca or phone 1800 277 9914.

“CPP changes”

Above: On Tuesday, February 21, Service Canada rep Carole Morrison discusses the changes to the Canada Pension Plan with valley resident Mary Crofford. Photo by Marie Birkbeck

“Income tax helpers needed”

Above: On Tuesday,February 21, Myrna Giese chats with Carol Bustin about the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program. Photo by Marie Birkbeck

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

1.888.611.5557

“Write on!”

On Saturday, February 25, a group of valley writing enthusiasts met at the Dunster School to share their stories. Clockwise starting on the far left: Naomi Balla-Boudreau, Sharon Stearns, Gwen Jacobsen, Kelly McNaughton, Nancy Taylor, Sasha Lewis and Norma Arneson Photo by Augusto Pardo Bonafonte

Regional News Regional news in brief Daniel Betts editor

B.C. Forest Service celebrates 100 years

On February 27, British Columbia celebrated the centennial birthday of the BC Forest Service. One hundred years ago, the Province created the first government agency to preserve B.C.’s forests through forest fire prevention, use of timber management areas, tree planting and the diversification of tree growing. Since February 27, 1912, the BC Forest Service has been in charge of managing and protecting the province’s forests and range lands. The dedication and hard work of the men and women of the BC Forest Service have resulted in 100 years of excellent forest stewardship in British Columbia. “Today we celebrate the centennial birthday of the BC Forest Service, a truly significant milestone in our province’s history. I would like to thank the thousands of men and women within the ministry for their dedication and hard work to ensuring the lasting legacy of B.C.’s forests,” said Steve Thomson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources.

SFU researchers test sugary solution to Alzheimer’s

Slowing or preventing the development of Alzheimer’s disease, a fatal brain condition expected to hit one in 85 people globally by 2050, may be as simple as ensuring a brain protein’s sugar levels are maintained. That’s the conclusion seven researchers, including David Vocadlo, a Simon Fraser University chemistry professor and Canada Research Chair in Chemical Glycobiology, make in the latest issue of Nature Chemical Biology. The journal has published the researchers’ latest paper Increasing O-GlcNAc slows neurodegeneration and stabilizes Tau against aggregation. Vocadlo and his colleagues describe how they’ve used an inhibitor they’ve chemically created — Thiamet-G — to stop O-GlcNAcase, a naturally occurring enzyme, from depleting the protein Tau of sugar molecules. “The general thinking in science,” says Vocadlo, “is that Tau stabilizes struc-

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 3

tures in the brain called microtubules. They are kind of like highways inside cells that allow cells to move things around.” Research prior to Vocadlo’s has shown that clumps of Tau from an Alzheimer brain have almost none of this sugar attached to them, and O-GlcNAcase is the enzyme that is robbing them. The research team found that mice given the inhibitor had fewer clumps of Tau and maintained healthier brains. “This work shows targeting the enzyme O-GlcNAcase with inhibitors is a new potential approach to treating Alzheimer’s,” says Vocadlo. “This is vital since to date there are no treatments to slow its progression.

Northern Health celebrates regional Trauma Accreditation

The Northern Health Board of Directors met for its latest regular meeting in Quesnel where they heard that Northern Health has been granted trauma accreditation across the region. Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace and Fort St. John Hospital both received level V accreditation, and the University Hospital of Northern BC (UHNBC) in Prince George received level III. “The system of integrated services that Northern Health has built proved to be a strength across the region,” said Dr. Charles Jago, NH Board Chair. “The process of accreditation itself has improved our trauma system and services.”

Province looks to privatize B.C. liquor distribution system

On February 21 the Province of British Columbia announced its intention to approach the private sector to see how liquor distribution in B.C. can be delivered in a modernized and cost-effective manner. The Province will conduct a Request for Proposals to transfer the government-owned and operated liquor distribution branch warehouses in Vancouver and Kamloops to the private sector by 2015. Currently, liquor is distributed throughout the province by both public and private services. The two government-owned warehouses distribute approximately 55 percent of the liquor that is sold in British Columbia. The Liquor Distribution Branch is responsible for the implementation, distribution, wholesaling and retailing of alcohol in B.C., and operates 197 government liquor stores and two warehouses. The government-operated liquor stores will not be affected by this Request for Proposals.

Peace farmers question “green” energy promises of Site C Dam Tamara Leigh Special to The Valley Sentinel

here is no shortage of controversy about land use in the Peace. In the midst of public consultations about the Northern pipeline, and the early days of a provincial government study on the cumulative health impacts of natural gas fracking, it is easy to lose sight of one of the greatest threats in the province to agricultural land - the development of the Site C dam. The Site C dam, announced by former premier Gordon Campbell, will create a reservoir 87-kilometres long and take an estimated 11,000 acres of agricultural land out of production, including 7,000 acres of Class 1 and 2 soil. The Peace Region is home to roughly 40 percent of the land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), but very little of that land is considered high quality growing soil. The Peace River Valley, on the other hand, contains some of the only Class 1 and 2 soils in the region, and has a unique microclimate that provides some of the best growing conditions north of the Fraser Valley. Ken and Arlene Boon live at Bear Flats in the Peace River Valley. Arlene’s grandfather bought the land from the original homesteaders in the 1940s, and her family has farmed it ever since. Their property runs from the top of the valley right down to the river flats, an area that will be entirely lost if Site C moves forward. “The potential for this valley is phenomenal, but right now it’s not being utilized to the full potential,” says Ken. “In the past, some of our place was used for potato production. We have beautiful river flats with light loose silty soil that can be commercially harvested. It’s phenomenal ground - there are not many places up here where you can do that.” Much of the land in the area is held in flood reserve by BC Hydro - in some cases, it is rented back to the original owners, but much of it remains fallow. While uncertainty about the future of the valley reduces the incentive to farm, there are other factors involved. “Part of it is market conditions. Right now food availability is pretty good, but in the future a valley like this is going to be important for food production,” Kevin explains. “I can’t help but believe that local food production is going to become more im-

portant, and this valley is critical for that. There’s stuff here that you just can’t grow anywhere else.” Arthur Hadland is the director for Peace River Regional District Area C, home of the proposed dam site. He has opposed the project since it was first proposed in the late 1970s. “If this river valley was anywhere else in developed world, it would be considered an icon,” he says. Hadland is passionate about the preservation of the valley as a site of natural and historic significance, as well as its agricultural potential. The Peace River valley is part of the Yukon to Yellowstone wildlife corridor and home to a unique plant community, a significant fishery, and nesting sites for a resident eagle population. It is also the home of the oldest human habitation site in Canada, estimated at over 10,000 years old. “One of the things that there is concern about is the instability of the soils in the area. The dam site proposed for Site C resides in an area with very unstable clay platelets that are susceptible to slides,” says Hadland. “We have had a number of slides in the area, including one that took out the Peace River Bridge in 1957.” BC Hydro has admitted that it will be six to 10 years before they will be able to ensure the area is safe. In the meantime, recreational users will be kept off the reservoir. More than anything else, Hadland is skeptical of the provincial government’s claims that Site C will provide “clean, green energy.” “The Clean Energy Act is an absolute joke when we are tearing up the north to produce natural gas,” says Hadland. “BC Hydro is on slippery ground when it comes to the Site C dam. Building dams is old technology; we’ve got to get current.” Plans to build a transmission line from Site C to the Horn River Basin to power natural gas operations has further strained the credibility of the environmental argument. “Site C is not for domestic use. It will be used for industrial application,” says Hadland. “The taxpayer will be subsidizing the energy companies to the tune of $50 million a year.” Ken Boon isn’t afraid to call out the contradictions between the idea of clean energy that British Columbians are being sold and the province’s dependence on the energy sector for economic growth. “The Clean Energy Act is very hypocritical,” he

says. “The government paints themselves as clean and green by saying that we’re not going to burn natural gas in B.C., but then they sell it and ship it around the world. What are they going to do with it?” The Site C project still requires environmental certification and other regulatory permits and approvals — including provincial permits and federal authorizations — before it can proceed to construction. The project has just started Stage 3 (out of 5) of the Environmental & Regulatory Review. The project is in the early stages of a joint federal/provincial environmental assessment by the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEA Agency) and the British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO) that promises to include several public comment periods, as well as a comprehensive public hearing process. These consultations will provide opportunities for the public, Aboriginal groups, all levels of government, and other interested groups to have a say in the process. “The real problem is the imbalance of funding,” says Hadland, who still hopes the project can be stopped. “BC Hydro is spending $50-100 million on experts and legal council, and the government has allocated $140,000 for all of the interveners. It’s David and Goliath.” The environmental assessment process is expected to take up to three years to complete. In the meantime, the valley and the farmers will just have to wait.

CALLING LADIES of VALEMOUNT DON’T FORGET our Christ Centered lunch on Wednesday the 14th of March at The Great Escape Restaurant at 12:30 p.m. See you there Bring a guest if you can! All are welcome!!! by the

LADIES of VALEMOUNT COMMUNITY CHURCH

4 • Wednesday February 29, 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

Health 45

think our modern society presents a false sense of security in regard to our health. In the span of human existence people are not generally long lived. In the Bronze Age (2,000 to 799 BC) burial pits reveal a range of ages, but none past age 45. Likewise in the Iron Age (700 to 0 BC) few skeletal remains were older than 45 years. Things did not improve much in the Middle Ages (AD 400 to 1000) where Anglo-Saxon cemeteries found no remains older than 45 years. Royalty lived a little longer, reigning monarchs in Scotland and England between AD 1000 and 1600 expected to live between 51 and 48 years. However monks at Carmelite Abbey at the same time period did not survive much past, you guessed it, 45 years of age. Perhaps royalty started getting more exercise because between AD1600 and 1899 royals lived an average of 62 years. As humanity leaped into the modern age our life expectancy must have improved significantly, right? Well, not really. In the year 1900 a man in the United States could expect to live 46.3 years and a woman 48.3 years. Life expectancy numbers slowly crawled upward during the 20th century AD. It wasn’t until 1949 that 65, our current benchmark for retirement, was the life expectancy of a North American male; women reached this point in 1938. In 1977, 69 was the life expectancy of a North American male, which ironically was the age and year my Grandfather died. Basically, up until about a hundred years ago, of the entire lifespan of humanity, which is approximately 100,000 years, people did not live much past 45 years of age. Currently British Columbians live to about 79 years for males and 84 for females. Disturbingly, in the United States, according to interesting statistics published by the United States Department of Health and Human Services life expectancy actually dropped in 2008 to 77.8 years, loosing 36.5 days. Heart disease, cancer, stroke and unintentional death such as traffic accidents top the list of ways Americans shed their mortal coil. Canada has similar statistics although cancer tops our list. What I find most interesting about both sets of statistics is the sudden dramatic jump in mortality after age 45. While in general people are now living longer, if you compare statistics from 1980, in the United States, more people are dying between ages 45 and 65 now than in the 80s. While over the past 100 years we have found ways to extend our lifespan, this is only a fraction of the entire length of human existence; before this it was more common to have perished before reaching 45. These statistics suggest we shouldn’t wait for age 65 to address our health, particularly men, who clearly don’t live as long as women. While it is important to pay attention to our health through the entire length of our lives, from a historical and statistical standpoint, those who are hovering around the 45 age mark need to pay particular attention; after all for approximately 999,900 years most humans never saw 46.

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“They did it again!”

Above: On Sunday, February 26, in a tournament in Edson, Alta. the McVale Novice team won all three of their games. (5-2, 21-1 and 5-3) The team plays a home tournament in McBride, B.C. this coming weekend, March 3 and 4. The McVale teams plays at 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 3 and at 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 4. Way to go McVale Novice Team! Photo by Jennifer Quam

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.

OPINION

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 5

DriveABLE safety assessments in B.C. for seniors Shirley Bond MINISTER OF JUSTICE AND ATTORNEY GENERAL

recognize that the prospect of losing one’s driving privileges can be very upsetting. For most of us, driving is an important part of maintaining our lifestyle and independence. As we age, it is normal for our driving abilities to change and it’s important to pay attention to these changes and make necessary adjustments. Government has the responsibility of balancing an individual’s desire to drive with the responsibility to ensure the public safety of all British Columbians. DriveABLE is one of the tools we use to help us make those decisions in a fair and responsible way. We believe it is the best assessment available to determine a person’s cognitive ability to drive. The DriveABLE assessment is scientifically based and is used not only in British Columbia, but in jurisdictions across North America. I understand that a person who is faced with a driving assessment will experience some anxiety about the process. I want to assure all British Columbians, especially seniors, that I hear their concerns about DriveABLE. It is clear that as a government, we need to do a better job of explaining the process and we intend to do just that. I’ve asked the superintendent of motor vehicles to develop an outreach plan that will have staff visit communities across the province to speak with individuals and their families to explain driver medical fitness requirements and demonstrate how the DriveABLE assessment works. At age 80, every driver is asked to complete a Driver Medical Examination with their physician. This is a general medical assessment that examines a person’s medical fitness to drive safely, and it assesses vision, physical abilities and medical conditions that may affect driving. Only those people who have been identified by a physician as having cognitive issues are referred by the Office of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles, to DriveABLE. Government pays the full cost of the assessment for any drivers they refer. It is important to note that not all seniors need to take a DriveABLE assessment. Of the nearly half a million drivers over the age of 65 in B.C., only about 1,500 are referred by the superintendent of motor vehicles each year for a DriveABLE assessment, as a result of concerns about their cognitive ability to drive safely.

The decision to remove a person’s driving privileges is not taken lightly, and in all driver medical fitness decisions, the superintendent of motor vehicles will consider changes to medical information or physician advice when making decisions about an Valemount individual’s driving status. Learning Without DriveABLE, the superintendent of motor Centre vehicles would be obligated to base driver fitness 250-566-4601 decisions on a general medical diagnosis of cognitive decline, which means more drivers would be LOCAL JOB prohibited from driving than are presently. POSTINGS Since DriveABLE was introduced in 2005, we’ve Updated February 29, 2012 expanded from just three locations to 17, to give Updated Feb. 29, 2012 drivers across the province more convenient ac Assistant Supervisor cess. Mobile units are often deployed to smaller  Banquet Servers  Bartender/Server communities such as Fort St John and Peace River.  Camp Ground Attendant/ We continue to look at opportunities to expand serFee Collector  Cook/Chef vices, where required.  Counter Sales Clerk Let me clear up some myths about the in-office  Engineering Heavy Duty/ Field Mechanic. assessment, which is designed to assess for driving  Front Desk errors associated with cognitive decline, not gen Housekeepers  Maintenance Person eral driving skill or knowledge of rules of the road.  Night Audit Although the in-office assessment is presented by a  Part time Banquet Servers  Red Cross health-care professional on a touch-screen moniSwimming Instructor.  Servers/Bartenders tor, computer knowledge is not required and has no  Track Maintainer bearing on assessment results. The staff who admin Traffic Control Person Front desk staff can give you ister the in-office DriveABLE assessment are trained detailed information about each of these We are here toinfo help. postings, including on howPlease to submit health-care professionals who guide the driver your application for these job opportunities. call or drop in. For more through the assessment from start to finish. information on these jobs or other employment assistance It is our priority to better support the transition services visit us at Regency Valemount that all families face as driving abilities change. This Centre Place 1201-Learning 5th Ave, Valemount. government is committed to helping British Colum250-566-4601 www.valemountlearningcentre.org bians better understand the DriveABLE cognitive assessment and the services available to them. I believe we all share the same goal of improving safety for everyone on our roads and highways and we feel Funded in whole or in part through the the DriveABLE assessment is helping to achieve that. Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement For more information on driver medical fitness issues in B.C., visit: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/osmv/

LOCAL JOB POSTINGS

Winter is HERE! Brookfield Power would like to remind you of the dangers that exist on rivers this time of year. Because river currents can weaken ice – especially backwater currents close to dams – it can be very dangerous to travel on rivers whether on foot, on snowmobile, on skates, on skis, or on all-terrain vehicles (ATV). Also, a dam’s control gates can be activated remotely and will cause unsafe conditions such as water level and river current changes. Stay Safe! Brookfield Power wants to ensure that all of your outdoor recreational activities are positive and memorable experiences this winter. For more information: 604-485-2223

6 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

COMMUNITY EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS

We Read Banned Books @ the McBride& District Public Library March 2, 2012 at 3 p.m. and on Drop by and read out loud from our black box of banned literature, and get your picture taken as a Banned Book Bandit CHESS Fun @ the McBride & District Public Library March 3, 2012 at 2 p.m. Join Monica for an intro to the game or to meet your match. All ages and levels welcome. ATTENTION TRAPPERS March 4, 2012 at 10 a.m. Trappers meeting in Chuck McNaughton’s Shop. Come have coffee and tell stories. Contact Claude Hill at 250 968 4459

Native Cultural Teachings @ the McBride& District Public Library March 7, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. Using the medicine wheel as a lens, Angel Fraser will share aspects of her Native culture. Intro to eBooks @ the McBride& District Public Library March 7, 2012, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Bring your mobile device for an intro by Martina to the library’s eBook program Overdrive. VACS presents caladh nua March 12, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30, $25 for seniors & students, $35 at door. Tickets available at Infinity. Come check out their traditional Irish music & dance along.

McBride roundhouse Theatre Presents lorne elliott March 12, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. Come out for a good laugh at this Comedy Show.

Canoe Valley Figure Skating Club Presents

Just Dance Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Children 3 and under are free, Seniors and Students $3.00, Family $15.00, and Adults $5.00 McBride Skating Club Presents

Once Upon a Time Saturday, March 10, 2012 at 7 p.m. Children 12 & under $3.00, Seniors $3.00 & Adults $5.00

ONGOING EVENTS Valemount MONDAYS: • VALEMOUNT SENIORS Carpet Bowling 9 a.m. Golden Years Lodge • Lions Bingo 1st & 3rd Mon., at Lions Hall, doors open 6 p.m., everyone welcome. • 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. at the old Learning Centre on Gorse St. in the CNC classroom • 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.

DUNSTER

• Dunster family Dance First Saturday of each Month from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Instruction from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and short sessions throughout the evening. Lots of variety dances (-waltz, fox-trot, polka, cha-cha, two-step, schottische, etc.) Pot luck snacks at 8:30 p.m. and then more dancing until 9:30 p.m. Admission - $5 for anyone over 12 - maximum of $10 per family. All welcome!! Contact Pete at 250 968 4334 for more information. The final Family Dance for this year will be in April!

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. • Bible readings at the McBride & District Public Library at 7 p.m. Join us for stories from one of the world’s most widely printed books. Hosted by John Christison. 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 February 29, 2012 • 7

COMMUNITY

McBride: 25th Anniversary Rick Hansen Relay Submitted TO THE VALLEY SENTINEL

he Spirit of McBride Community Committee along with other community partners is hosting the 25th Anniversary Rick Hansen Relay on Monday, March 19, 2012. The Relay, starting at 11:50AM will feature local Medal Bearers Darian Niblett, Christine Monroe & Kjell Valestrand. The Relay will end at the Robson Valley Community Hall with a community celebration featuring; • Brief speeches at the Robson Valley Community Centre following the run. • Power point presentation with highlights of our community event as well as pictures from 25 years ago. • Hot Dogs, Hot Chocolate and Cake • And more ... The community celebration will culminate in a Free Skate at the Robson Valley Recreation Centre. The McBride Route Map shows where you can gather to watch the relay prior to the community event.

and Friday, March 16, 2012 in partnership with the Prince George Wheel Chair Basketball Association. More information will be available as final arrangements are made regarding these events. “The 25th Anniversary Rick Hansen Relay is a great way for our community to celebrate and recognize the tremendous work of the Rick Hansen Foundation to raise awareness of the potential of people with disabilities, accelerate progress in building inclusive communities and achieve breakthroughs in spinal cord injury (SCI) research. This will be achieved by having a great turn out of community members to cheer on the Medal Bearers along the route and to celebrate with them and the Relay Team at the Robson Valley Community Hall” said Rick Thompson, Committee Chair.

Medal Bearer Route In addition to the Relay and the community celebration, the committee will be hosting some community awareness events on Thursday, March 15

McBride Secondary Students fundraiser Astrid Frazier CONTRIBUTOR

“Yum!”

Above: On February 22, 161 valley residents attended a fundraiser at the McBride Secondary gymnasium to support the grade 8 and Biology 11 classes headed to Vancouver Island in March on an extended field trip to the Bamfield Marine Science Centre. Photo by Astrid Frazier

n February 22, 2012 the McBride Secondary Students had their annual fundraiser for their yearly field trip to the Bamfield Marine Science Centre. This year the students put on a Spaghetti Dinner at the high school gym. Tickets were $8 and

161 hungry people enjoyed dinner, a silent auction and a cakewalk. This has been an annual fundraiser for local students since 1994 when local schoolteachers Jill Howard and Bob Betkus took the first group. Howard says that Bamfield Marine Science Centre is a world-class teaching and research facility located on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The Marine Centre supports diverse coastal and marine research of the highest caliber and is recognized as among the very best research and training facility in the world. This trip will provide our students an opportunity to explore the diversity of this dynamic coastal environment, from exposed rocky shoreline, and expansive sandy beaches, productive estuaries, and ancient coastal temperate rainforests. They will be involved in numerous labs and trips to remote beaches and out into deep ocean on a research vessel which will entail observing marine mammals and birds and sampling from subtidal environment. Samples are collected using a dredge net and yields different organisms, including sea stars, urchins, octopi, crabs, fish sea cucumbers, and many others that are not found in the intertidal zones. Mrs. Howard and Mr. Betkus will be taking 21 students from the grade 8 and Biology 11 classes to this remarkable research station sponsored by 5 universities for an unforgettable experience from March 12-16, 2012.

“A fine feast”

Above: On February 22, valley residents arrive to enjoy a spaghetti dinner at the McBride Secondary School gymnasium. Photo by Astrid Frazier

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8 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Poker Run

Snowmobile Poker Run Donalda Beeson contributor

t Valemount’s annual Winter Festival Poker Run on Sunday, February 26, 46 riders and a few ghost riders of all ages, levels and types of machines came out and rode for a good cause. Collectively they raised a total of $2,584 in funds for the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities. According to Grace Craig, 100% of the earnings go directly to the fund as there are zero administration fees. Tourism Valemount, in cooperation with the Timberline Snowgoers Club and VARDA, hosted the event through the low-elevation clearly marked 30 km Westridge Family Loop Trail. About 20 km up the trail there was an opportunity to take a break at the Westridge cabin and warm up your fingers and toes with a complimentary hot chocolate and delicious cookie from Valemount’s Swiss Bakery. Upon

the rider’s return there were IGA donated hot dogs in the parking lot while what seemed like endless awards and prizes for just about everything under the sun were given out. Sheldon Edwards of Stony Plain, Alta. drew the best hand of the day with three sevens and took home a two nights stay at the Best Western. The youngest rider of the day was local Colby Voth at one and a half years old and the next youngest out of town rider of the day was Annaka Mears from Edmonton at 3 years old. Local Tyson Craig raised the most money for the event, bringing with him $1034.24. It was a beautiful, warm sunny day, and the perfect day to be on the trails. If you haven’t done so already I highly suggest checking out the breathtaking views from the Lower Westridge Family Loop Trail. If you are interested in participating next year, Curtis Pawliuk of VARDA said they will have pledge forms up on the internet.

“A great event for the whole family”

Above: Carey Newbie (left) poses behind Nyome, Colby and Payton Voth, with their mom Krista Voth in the back. Photo by Mike Austin Below: The Poker Run’s youngest participant one and half year old Colby Voth, showing no one’s too young to raise money for kids with disabilities. Photo by Donalda Beeson

“Backseat Driver”

Ryan Enders from Edson, Alta., lets the Sentinel’s reporter Donalda Beeson drive him and his sled in the Poker Run, even though Donalda accidentally cheated by stealing their hand of cards, good thing they lost anyway. Photo by Mike Austin

Valemount’s Winter Festival 2012 Thanks You

“Westridge Family Loop”

Jason and Krista Voth ride under blue skies. The fresh snowfall made for a beautiful day out riding. Photo by Curtis Pawliuk

Valemount’s Fourth Annual Winter Festival, which included the First Annual Drag Races, was a success due to all the sponsors, groups, individuals, and the in and out of town’s support! A big thank you to everyone! Business Sponsors Adventure Management Alpine Country Rentals Alpine Inn Best Western Plus Valemount Inn & Suites Canoe Mountain Extreme Sports Canoe Mountain Rodeo Caribou Grill Chalet Continental Diamond H Donairs IGA Valemount IRLY Building Center Lakes District Maintenance McLennan Car/Truck Stop Melanie’s Hair and Esthetics Moose Pub Mount Robson Whitewater Rafting Pepe’s Pizza

Ramada Valemount Resort Municipality Initiative Robson Helimagic Sarak Family Restaurant Shell Mighty Mart Super 8 Valemount The Gathering Tree The Great Escape The Rocky Mountain Goat The Valley Sentinel Newspaper Valemount Car Wash & Mini Storage Valemount Home Hardware Valemount Hotel Valemount Pines Golf Course & RV Park Valemount Swiss Bakery VARDA Village of Valemount/ Public Works Whisper Creek Log Homes Yellowhead Helicopters

Volunteers/Groups Arnold Wied Carol Lewis Cary Newby Christine Latimer Colin Wied Colton Myggland Curtis Pawliuk Darryl Polyk Grace Craig Jodi Pownall Kevin Fleetham Mac Cochrane Marie Birkbeck Mike Lewis Owen Torgerson Royal Canadian Legion Branch #266 Special thanks to the Griffin family for all their hard work and use of the Canoe River Campground.

“Poker hands”

Jennifer Robinson seeks out the second highest hand after the ride. Photo by Andrea Scholz

SNowmobile Races

“Throttle up!”

Valemount local Lois McTaggert exerts her snowmobile girlpower. Photo by Mike Austin

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 9

“Go Valemount!”

Curtis Pawliuk a.k.a. Mr. VARDA tries his luck. Photo by Mike Austin

First Snowmobile Drag Races Donalda Beeson contributor

alemount’s first ever, and hopefully first annual, Snowmobile Drag Races were a “huge success”, according to VARDA’s Curtis Pawliuk. The races were held on February 25 at the Canoe River Campground. “We didn’t know what to expect, with over 60 racers, over 90 races and full parking lots, we consider this first try as a huge success. The SSRA was very happy, the racers were happy and the spectators had a great time. We could not have asked for a better first attempt. We hope it will be even bigger and better for next season”, said Pawliuk. With 65 racers, 93 races, and a full parking lot, participation was on par with the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Racing Association’s (SSRA) regular races. As part of Tourism Valemount’s Winter Festival, this ISR sanctioned event was partnered with the SSRA and VARDA. There were Stock, Improved, Mountain, Pro, and Amateur classes, a class for local racers and free race for kids. A husband and wife racing team raining from Smoky Lake, Alta., seems to have somewhat dominated many of the events last Saturday. Jackie Jarema has been racing for ten years and her husband Dave Jarema has been racing for 15 years and together they make up DPH Racing. Sponsored by Arctic Cat and Lac La Biche Sporting Goods, Jackie said they travel all throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan racing in the sanctioned events run by the Sas-

katchewan Snowmobile Racing Association (SSRA), and were excited to be travelling to Valemount, B.C. as they have close friends in the Robson Valley and have been coming here for years. In the Valemount races, Jackie Jarema took a first in Queen Stock, first in Open Stock, first in 1000 Stock, second in 800 Stock, and second in 800 Improved. Dave Jarema took first in 800 Improved, and second in Open Stock. Jackie and Dave race a 2011 stock 800 CFR (Arctic Cat), a 1000 mod (Arctic Cat) and are almost finished building a 300 horsepower 800 turbo (Arctic Cat). Jackie and Dave wanted to extend their thanks for having them and said that they really “enjoyed racing in Valemount and hope to be back next year!” They would also “love to see more locals and more sleds out there!” Valemount’s local champ Vincent Clark was also out racing, and just as modest as ever, as he told us he “just came out to show his support for the event”. I guess he just accidentally took home most of the prize money and medals as well. Clark entered the Pro Sno 800 and 1000, Outlaw 800, Pro Max and Open Mountain Class and took four firsts and one third place. Overall, Jennifer Robinson of Tourism Valemount said they were “really happy with the turn out.” According to Robinson there were 144 spectators. Both Robinson and Pawliuk said they hope to “do it again next year for sure.” For more information about snowmobile drag races check out www.racessra.com.

“The need for speed!”

“Like a bullet”

Below: Hot off the shot, local champ Vinnie Clark in his regular stance for speed. Photo by Andrea Scholz

Above: A shot from behind of female athlete extraordinaire Jackie Jarema. Photo by Mike Austin Left: SSRA organizer Dale Roger starts the race. Photo by Andrea Scholz

“Punch it!”

Fastest mom around, Emelia Cinnamon races her first ever snow drag. Photo by Andrea Scholz

“A Family Affair”

Parents Joel and Emelia Cinnamon congratulate their son Corbin Wild Cinnamon after his first ever race on his fourth birthday. Standing behind is his child minder Krista Voth. Photo by Donalda Beeson

“Go Dad Go!”

Curtis Pawliuk with his personal cheering squad and emcee helper Zoe Pawliuk. Photo by Andrea Scholz

10 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

COMMUNITY

“Horses of McBride” starts filming in March Daniel Betts EDITOR

ights, Camera, Action! A CTV camera crew is expected to be in McBride, B.C. around March 20 to begin filming scenes for a dramatic film called “Horses of McBride,” a TV movie about a father and daughter who inspire a community to save two horses trapped

on a snowy B.C. mountainside. The film, developed by actor, Paul Gross, is inspired and very loosely based upon the events that occurred in December 2008 on Mount Renshaw, where members of the community rescued two abandoned horses. The true story was well documented by local author and journalist Birgit Stutz and author Lawrence Scanlan in their book The Rescue of

“Visitors book ahead online”

Above: Lucas Marco and Cinzia Ruberto of Booking.com were in Valemount for 2 days last week meeting with accommodation operators and encouraging them to sign up for their online hotel reservation service. Established in 1996, booking.com is a commission based, international program, available in 99 countries, in 41 languages, 24/7. Lucas and Cinzia are shown here with Elli Haag of Bearberry Meadows Guest House. For more information on the program, please visit their website: www.booking.com Photo by Marie Birkbeck

Belle and Sundance, A Miracle on Mount Renshaw. Recently, the book was given a slight make-over for American readers and is now available for sale in the United States. The CTV film and the book are not connected.

“Cariboots N Blades”

On February 3,4 and 5 the Canoe Valley Skating club attended a competition held in Williams Lake, B.C.. Front row: Ellie Dueling, Danielle Knelsen, Khaedren Bos, Danelle Du Toit Middle row: Kiesha Byford, Jessica Shalla, Sydnie Pelletier, Hannah Knelsen, Danny-Lee Hystad, Sharonrose Shalla (coach) Top row: Katlyn Jensen, Hailey Knelsen, Melissa Brown Photo by James Bos

BUSINESS DIRECTORY JASPER

Jen Applebaum

Licensed Property Manager * Handyman Services * Design Consulting

rusticluxury@telus.net

TREKS & TRAVEL

250.566.4005 Office 250.566.1323 Cell Valemount

www.rusticluxury.com

Relevant Experience:

Massage Therapist, Hospital Aid Worker & Bus Driver

Helene Gagnon 250-566-9817

Security Web Alarm Systems

Security Web A lArm SyStemS SECURITY WEB ALARM SYSTEMS 24 hr monitoring - 1.888.564.8585 Mark Taron - (250) 566-1190

Painting, Textured Ceilings, Drywall Boarding and Taping, Tile, Hardwood and Laminate Floors, Decks, Fencing, and Complete Landscape Renovation.

RHex’so Recycling ours of

peration

sunday - Monday Closed tuesday - Wednesday 1-5pM tHursday - friday - saturday 10aM - 5pM

Now o refu ffering nd on a full bot 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

homeAND andBUSINESS business HOME ALL all makes and MAKES AND MODELS Fire, flood, detection = models 24 hrsmoke, Monitoring Ofﬁce in PG. = video systems. Area Installer. •Local 24 hrsurvellance 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

Harry Carson Mike Dryden Area.

www.securityweb.ca

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

Phone: 780-852-5473 Toll Free: 1-888-437-2483 Destination weddings to the sun for “that special day”. Disney and last minute packages to the sun.

Patricia Theriault Marrek

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

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

Cell: 250 566 1687

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

“Free Down Payment Mortgages”

Stay connected, subscribe to The Valley Sentinel. $52/year ensures you stay on top of the news in the Robson Valley !

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.

Call now! 250 566-4425

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 11

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Canwest Propane Ltd.

YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER

Mac’s Small Engine Service & Repair Closed Dec 8-Jan 8

• Lawn & gaRdEn • aTV’S • powER SawS • SnowMobILES

Call Mac Cochrane

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

Systems

Valley

Joel Steinberg P.O. Box 124, Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0 250-674-0017

SNOW REMOVAL

272 C CAT SKID STEER with SNOW BLOWER or SNOW BUCKET

Returning Flow Acupuncture

Wednesday & Friday in Valemount

Thursdays in McBride Micah Yoder, Registered Acupuncturist

Phone: 250-566-1782

Clearwater Glass Ltd.

Phone 250 674-3768 Fax 250 674-3762 We are ICBC approved glass express shop. We also do Canadian Direct Insurance glass claims. We do commercial glass, household glass, windows, doors, and heavy equipment windows.

ar Ly tt le C

tage

Vanderhoof & District Co-Operative Association

DRIVER SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Greg Belshaw

Phone: 250-566-4742 Cell: 250-566-1089

94 West Old Thompson Hwy. Next to the shopping centre.

Delivering Fuel East to McBride

For Commercial and Farm Personal Contact Where High Level of Customer Service is JOB #1

Spaz Logging Dave Craig

joel_valleygeo@telus.net

250-968-4498

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

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

ROCKO’S MUSIC All Music Supplies available Assorted Blues Harps, Strings, Cords, Capos, Mikes, Stands, Chord Books, Song Books, & Local Cd’s

THE VALLEY SENTINEL YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR NEWSPAPER

250-566-4425

CHURCH LISTINGS VALEMOUNT

GOOD SHEPHERD ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

Brown Rd. Dunster Just Past Vogels

3rd Ave & Elm St. Phone: 1 877 314-4897 Sunday 8:30am Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat9am, Wed & Fri 7pm

New in the Robson Valley:

250 566-4797 7th & Cedar, Sunday

HOME DESIGNS & RENOVATIONS

1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824

Kitchen Bath Doors Windows Cabinets Floors Tiles Painting Insulation and more

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES

Rocko’s Music - 250-968-4335

HAUGK

Licenced Journeyman with over 30 years experience

call Andreas @ 250 569 0004 / c: 981 0457 andreashaugk@shaw.ca

TOUCHTHERAPY INTERNATIONAL Geotran™ Brain/Mind Integrations Bio-Photonic Lymphatic Drainage Massage IonCleanse® Detox Foot Bath

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

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

~ de-stress ~ integrate ~ prevent ~

Barbara Faust 250 968-4509 www.touchtherapyinternational.com

ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH Worship 10:00 AM

NEW LIFE CENTRE

Sunday School 10am. Family Worship 10:30am. Prayer meeting Thurs 7pm

250 968-4349 or 250 566-4568 Sunday-11am, Sun. School 11am

VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 250 566-9996

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

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

Smart Nuts Technology

Call for quote: 250-566-4425

Cardlock and bulk plant facility Fuel truck for all your delivery needs

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH

Church 569.2378 or 569.8845 1st Ave

Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH

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

Harmonic Body Harmonic BodyTherapies Therapies Acupressure Acupressure Reflexology Reflexology Massage Massage Yoga Yoga

Kathryn Kathryn Smith Smith 250-566-4022 250-566-4022 Valemount, BC verra_k@yahoo.com Valemount BC

verra_k@yahoo.com

441 Dominion St., 250 569.3206 or 250 569.3386. Worship/Kids church10:00am

SEVENTH - DAY ADVENTIST

Harmonic Body Therapies Acupressure Reflexology Massage Yoga

Kathryn Smith 250-566-4022 verra_k@yahoo.com Valemount BC

Canadian Acupressure College; Reflexology Assoc. of Canada; Raynor School of Massage; RYT-500.

Harmonic Body Therapies

Canadian Acupressure College; Reflexology Assoc. of Canada; Raynor School of Massage; RYT-500

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 February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

sentinel

Up to 20 words: $6 • Up to 25 words: $7 • Up to 30 words: $8+HST

THE VALLEY

CLASSIFIEDS

Guaranteed to Sell $19.95+HST

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 one month then you must call to keep it running for up to 3 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 MISC. FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

1998 380 SKIDOO. Asking $1500.00 - Call for more information 250-566-9834 GTS JAN 11

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 604-5880069 for more info GTS NOV 30

AUTOMOBILES

12’ Aluminum Boat and late model 4HP Mercury Motor for sale. Includes removable chairs. Good condition. $1400 OBO Call 250566-9950 GTS APR 6

WANTED

Full size 1” X 6” aromatic cedar boards; small quantity, rough cut. Contact Al Pernicelle 250-569-2602 or email outofsquare@mcbridebc.com NOTICE

Village of Valemount 2012 Regular Council Meeting Dates • • • • • • • • • • •

February 28, 2012 March 13 & 27, 2012 April 10 & 24, 2012 May 8 & 22, 2012 June 12 & 26, 2012 July 10 & 24, 2012 August 14 & 28, 2012 September 11, 2012 October 9 & 23, 2012 November 13 & 27, 2012 December 11, 2012

No meetings have been scheduled for: September 25, 2012 due to the UBCM conference December 25, 2012 due to the Christmas holidays Meetings are at 7:00 pm at the Village Office in the Council Chambers. 735 Cranberry Lake Road, Valemount, BC Please note that Council is considering changing these dates and times. Any approved changes will be posted and advertised. NOTICE

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

MAR 28

NOTICE

LIVESTOCK / HAY

NOTICE

Land Act: Notice to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that TM Mobile Inc., of Burnaby, BC has made application to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations for cellular telecommunication tower sites and associated electric utility lines, as part of a project to provide cellular coverage to underserviced areas of the Yellowhead Highway and adjacent lands. The Crown land file numbers that have been established for these applications are 7409420, 7409419 just east of Purden Lk Prov Park area, 7409407, 7409408 Crescent Spur/Lasalle Lakes area, 7409409 Dome Creek area. If you wish to view these applications in detail along with maps of the locations, please visit our website http:// www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/search.jsp and look up the applications with the file numbers listed above. Written comments concerning these applications should be directed to Susan Lizotte at 1044 5th Avenue Prince George BC V2L 5G4 (250-565-6779).

1996 GMC 3/4 ton long box, super cab, 6.5 diesel, automatic, 4 x 4, tunnel cover. $3,000 OBO 2505697181 GTS DEC 21

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

RENTALS

500 pound round bales of straw at $25.00 each. Contact Mark 250-5692561 MAR 21

For sale horse hay, square or round bales. Contact Doug 250-569-3201 or Jess 250-569-8831 McBride

GTS OCT 26

2000 Pontiac Montana Mileage: 171,000 kms. New summer tires. Studded winter tires. Asking $3,500 Phone 250-566-4580 GTS OCT 19

1997 FORD F 150 4 x4, reg cab, long box. Motor knocks, easy fix or good for parts. $700 250-566-4557

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

RENTALS

Great 2 bedroom house on huge lot. Close to town (Valemount), wood/ propane heat, non-smoking, pets negotiable. $650/ month. Call Marcy 604-5740904, or 778-320-6032

#024

Mtnview Apts. No smoking, no pets, clean and quiet building. Renovated 2 bdrm $575. Furnished suite in 4-plex: 2 bdrm / 1 bath. Large rooms, great natural lighting! No pets, no smoking. $675

#026-C

Photos and details at

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

TRAILERS FOR SALE

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GTS FEB 15

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE ~37 acres of beautiful Valemount property for sale! The property is in raw land located just down from Twin Peaks Resort in the cul-de-sac to the right. Property has Swift Creek running through it and has potential for sub division. The property was listed locally but has been removed from the listing. If your interested give us a call: 587-351-9771 or email: lktk67@shaw.ca

New at the Valemount Public Library Adult ﬁction

Home front ~ Kristin Hannah Kill shot ~ Vince Flynn Celebrity in death ~ J.D. Robb Indian horse ~ Richard Wagamese The kitchen house ~ Kathleen Grissom The dressmaker ~ Kate Alcott

Adult Non-ﬁction

The complete book of framing ~ Scot Simpson The legendary Betty Frank ~ Betty Frank Rebar modern food cookbook ~ Audrey Alsterberg Sophie ~ Emma Pearse

Junior

Clockwork prince ~ Cassandra Clare The forgotten warrior ~ Erin Hunter The ﬁre ~ James Patterson Forever ~ Maggie Stiefvater Sir Charlie Stinky Sock and the tale of the terrible secret ~ Kristina Stephenson

DVD

Swing kids Schindler’s list Breaking dawn

Plus many, many more new titles listed on our website

Comments will be received until March 30, 2012. Comments received after this date may not be considered. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be provided to the public upon request.

Mobile Home: Hartman’s Trailer Park 2 bedrooms, new roof, bathroom, windows, and carpet. Pellet Stove and propane furnace. $25,000 OBO Call Nathan 250-566-5040

GTS SEPT 14

MAR 7

GTS JULY 20

Need Firestarter? Stop by The Valley Sentinel Office and pick up old newspapers!

RENTAL LISTINGS VALEMOUNT REAL ESTATE

FEB 29

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RENTALS

http://valemount.bclibrary.ca Library hours

Call to subscribe: 250-566-4425

Valemount Public Library

Tues, Thurs, Fri 10am-5pm Wed 10am-9pm and Sat 11am-3pm

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 13

NOTES FROM ALL OVER Notes from All Over Donalda Beeson contributor

366 Days in this Year because 2012 is a Leap Year! Whoa! Slow down seasonal change! 2012 is an intercalary or bissextile year, a leap year that is. It is a year containing one additional day (in this case February 29, 2012) in order to keep the calendar year synchronized with the astronomical or seasonal year, which over time, drift through the seasons too rapidly. By occasionally inserting this additional day the drift is corrected. But don’t get too used to saying, 366 days in a year, next year we will be back to our usual 365. Last Few Weeks of Yoga in Valemount with Kathryn: Schedule Change Sadly the last few weeks of Kathryn’s Yoga classes in Valemount are coming up. There are a few changes to the schedule: she is cutting back to only one class per week, on Tuesdays. There is no class on March 6, as she will be away. The dates and times are: March 13, 20 and 27 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. And that brings us to the end of the season! Namaste. Robson Valley Community Learning Project Cafe Show-and-Tell A Robson Valley Support Society Initiative, the Robson Valley Community Learning Project in partnership with the McBride and District Public Library is hosting their next Cafe Show-and-Tell Friday, March 9 at the North Country Lodge in McBride, starting at 10:00 a.m. and ending at noon. Check back for more event venues. Everyone is Welcome. Contact Nancy Taylor, Community Learning Outreach Coordinator, Robson Valley Support Society at (250) 569 2266 or (250) 968 4358, or email nancy_t@telus.net for more information.

Mars at Opposition March 3, 2012, Mars the red planet will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. This is the best time to view and photograph Mars this year. JasperLIFE Mountain Adventure Club: Full Moon Guided Hike Thursday, March 8, 2012 the JasperLIFE Mountain Adventure Club will be hosting a guided hike under the full moon. Explore the park after dark! This evening adventure is free of charge and transportation is provided from Jasper. As per usual space is limited so advanced registration is required. Contact JasperLIFE to sign up. Call (780) 852 2100. SFU Project Aims to Reduce Avalanche Deaths From SFU News Online, “The Mountain Snowmobile Education Project, which the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) is funding with a $679,000 federal grant, aims to survey B.C.’s mountain snowmobiling community and provide information on the risks of slides to help reduce snowmobiler avalanche deaths.” They said that in the 2008–09 winter season B.C. alone recorded 24 avalanche deaths, 19 of which were backcountry snowmobilers, and five of which were skiers or snowboarders. The SFU researchers are conducting surveys with snowmobile clubs and riders at nine popular backcountry staging areas in Fernie, Golden, Revelstoke, Sicamous and Valemount. They are also developing an online survey that will be promoted through the clubs and snowmobile community websites. Employee Appreciation Day The first Friday in March is Employee Appreciation Day! If bosses get a Bosses Day, then employees surely deserve a Employee’s Day. Celebration and recognition can vary but some ideas are provide a lunch, snack, or cakes, or a small recognition gifts. Just in case you thought I made this up, according to David Nuualiitia “Employee Appreciation Day first arrived on calendars in 1995. One of Recognition Professionals International’s founding Board members, Bob Nelson, together with his publishing company, Workman Publishing, created Employee Appreciation Day as a way of focusing the attention of all employers, in all industries on employee recognition.” Employees don’t expect a day off because chances are it won’t happen, but do remind your boss. Interesting fact, Employee’s Day and Bosses Day are six months apart. 1283 Week of 2.27.2012

VACS Presents Caladh Nua Another musical cultural experience provided by none other than the Valemount Arts and Cultural Society (VACS) is taking stage Monday, March 12, 2012. VACS presents Caladh Nua! Caladh Nua is a traditional Irish band with a tasteful musical arrangement, ranging from traditional Irish dance music, and traditional songs alongside some more recently composed pieces. It is

said that Caladh Nua has a perfect balance between innovation and preservation of Ireland’s wonderful music and song tradition. Allow the band with their special repertoire and energy take you captive and whisk away audience members of any generation, to a far off land. Tickets are $30 or $25 for seniors and students in advance as available at Infinity Office and Health, or $35 at the door. To help offset the cost of these shows VACS is soliciting donations of goods, services or activities that would be of general interest for their silent auction starting at 4 p.m. in Secondary School foyer.

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March is National Craft Month! If you are already a crafter vow to try a new technique this month, or maybe teach someone your favorite craft! National Craft Month is also a great excuse to finish those half done projects. If you’re not a crafter now’s the month to start. Crafting is great therapy; it can reduce stress, and is a fun way to bring families together!

New at the McBride Public Library Adult fiction

Ru – Kim Thúy The Deserter – Paul Almond The Lucifer Code – Charles Brokaw Requiem – Frances Itani

Adult Non-fiction

397 Ways to Save Money – Kerry K. Taylor RMS Titanic: Gilded lives on a fatal voyage – Hugh Brewster Knitting Brioche – Nancy Marchant A Stolen Life – Jaycee Dugard

Junior

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Come by the library for free internet access or “like” us on Facebook to keep up with new titles and events!

www. mcbride.bclibrary.ca

14 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Activities WEEKLY HOROSCOPE by MICHAEL O’CONNOR Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) The urge to retreat vies with extra demands on your time and energy. Handling this complex pattern gracefully could prove challenging. This is a call to go with the flow and relax on trying to push your self, other and situations against the grain. If you do your efforts will likely backfire and create frustration and conflict. Intend to ride out the winter peacefully. Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) Quality time spent with friends remains a priority. Sharing dreams is the high side, yet unravelling misunderstandings may also be necessary. What we want, feel and need does not always blend with that of others. Then there is the timing factor. Beware the inner child taking a tantrum. Efforts to be understanding of your self and others is an ideal goal now. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) You stand to be in the limelight now. Hopefully you are getting the attention you want. If not, ask especially authority figures or perhaps for the guidance and support of angels. Closer to home, the time has come to get to the bottom of things. Meanwhile, making new connections and perhaps even new friends is in this interesting mix. Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) A whole new world has likely opened for you over the past year or so, but if this is not evident you may be feeling a little lost and confused. Are you lingering longer than is ideal in your comfort zone? We all have a destiny and tuning into it means being in the flow. Otherwise, we might just plough ahead determined to survive, resisting the gift of change. Either way, it is time again to take some calculated risks. Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) Matching your goals and ambitions with enthusiasm and action continues. The solution lies in stepping out of the protective shell and reaching out to others. Yet, be willing to pace yourself and let the momentum build slowly and surely. This trend will continue until mid spring anyway. Do continue to build upon new foundations especially in your career. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Rich and meaningful exchanges with others are a central theme now. These stand to have spiritual overtones. Meanwhile, a growing determination to improve in one way or another continues. Ideally your focus is geared towards increasing harmony with others and to create a smoother overall flow. A willingness to try new methods or create new angles will bring rewards. Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) A focus on health continues. This may include establishing a more wholesome routine. At deeper levels, clearing past attachments, regrets, resentments or any other emotional issues may be what you really need. Being here now is healthy but is easier said than done. Genuine gratitude is a key to achieving this. Let go and let god and give thanks and you will feel renewed. Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) Creative waves continue to wash in. These are accompanied by an increase in your social life. Yet, it remains important that you give more now than you expect to receive. Meeting interpersonal challenges with understanding and integrity will go a long way now. Be careful of over idealism and expectation, yet do bring your imagination fully to the fore.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

WEATHER FORECAST WEDNESDAY Daytime Condition

Mostly Sunny

P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain

20% -1°C -12°C --

THURSDAY

Daytime Condition

Snow Flurries

P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain

40% -1°C -11°C --

FRIDAY Daytime Condition

Snow Flurries

P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Rain

60% -1°C -9°C -

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) Shifts and changes close to home are gaining your attention. It is time to think about the future more deliberately. New foundations beckon. The pace of change will accelerate over the next few months. This will have a noticeable impact on your relationships. Simply getting mentally and emotionally ready is a good start. Trust this flow and work with it! Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Multiple streams of ideas are flowing in your mind now. Among them is the desire to create more beauty and/or harmony in your home. It is up to you to take the initiative here. Yet, you may also feel the need to take your space. Be careful of sending mixed messages. All efforts to explain where you are at and what you feel you need and want to those that matter will dissolve confusions. Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) Knowing what you genuinely want and need continues. You may sometimes feel as though prior foundations are eroding. What constitutes your power and how you express it is changing. Now is the time to accept and work with this change. Do not expect to fit easily into the world. Tailor your approach and attitude to align with your unique gifts, skills and aspirations. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Taking new leads and initiatives continues. Acquiring new tools and skills is part of the plot. Meanwhile, some challenging interactions with partners are likely. Resolving misunderstanding and confusions may feel extra important. Be willing to share what you think and feel openly and honestly; once you do hurt feelings and misunderstandings will clear.

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday February 29, 2012 • 15

Valley SpORTS

VSS Timberwolves headed to provincial championships Daniel Betts Editor

“Senior Girls Basketball”

Above: During their recent trip to Burns Lake the Senior Girls Basketball team participated in the 80’s workout theme banquet dinner. Photo by Sharon Hoy Below: After a hard fought championship game against Cedars Christian School the basketball girls proudly show off their second place medals. Photo by Robijn Cain

ur girls did us all proud this past weekend; The Valemount Secondary School (VSS) Senior Girl’s basketball team finished in second place at the Zone Championships held in Burns Lake, B.C.. The second place trophy earns the Timberwolves a berth in the Provincial Championship Tournament, which will begin in Prince George, B.C., on Wednesday March 7. In addition to the second place win, the girls were named “the most sportsmanlike team,” a very desired and respected award. Individually, the girls came home with some very exciting and prestigious awards. Linnaea Vander Zwan earned the “most inspirational player of the tournament” award, an honour bestowed upon her by her peers as each girl competing on all 11 teams voted for their choice. Additionally, Vander Zwan and teammate, Rebecca Lerch were named as two of the five first team “All-stars.” Haley Vander Zwan was named as a second team “All-star.” Sylvia Grigat and McKenna Edmand received honourable mentions. Out of the 11 teams participating in the Zone Championships, the Valemount team brought home six of the 18 individual awards. Mayor Andru McCracken of Valemount was inspired by the Timberwolves’ performance. “You might say that Valemount is in a similar position to the Timberwolves, we don’t have a lot of players, but we’ve got spirit, we play fair and count on each player’s contribution. Like the Timberwolves, we challenge ourselves to grow. The Timberwolves aren’t about flash, or any one person’s contribution, the plays are planned, and the skills are earned through hard work and years of dedication. Congratulations to the VSS Girls Basketball team on their tremendous success. Their effort and more importantly their spirit and sportsmanship inspires me! Coach Tim Nusse should be very proud, for good reason,” said McCracken. Well done, ladies! Your village is so very proud.

Established in 1986, The Valley Sentinel is a member of the BC Press Council, British Columbia and Yukon Community Newspapers Association, and the Canadian Community Newspapers Association.

McBride wrestlers attend provincial championships Birgit Stutz Contributor

wo McBride high school wrestlers just came back from an exciting weekend in Penticton. Grade 12 students Jonas Keim and Sig Harstad, both ages 18, recently qualified for the high school wrestling provincials, which took place February 23-25 in Penticton. While neither qualified for the nationals, it was a great experience for both of them. “I am happy they made it to provincials,” said Wes Phillips, head coach of the McBride high school wrestling team. Phillips explained that provincials are done by double elimination. “Sig lost both his matches, and Jonas lost his first match, won his second, and lost his third match. The only reason they lost is that they just don’t have enough experience. Our team has a bit of a disadvantage over other teams as the team members only practice twice a week. Other wrestlers go to a school club as well as a private club and practice four times a week, and then they go to matches every weekend. The next closest club to us is Kelly Road in Prince George. Our guys only have (assistant coach) Raj (Basran) and I to practice against any real competition.” The McBride high school wrestling club currently has four members who train Mondays and Wednesdays at the gym at McBride Secondary from the beginning of November until provincials. All of them are boys, but the club is open to girls as well. Phillips said the style of wrestling the club practices is called high school freestyle (or Olympic style) wrestling. There is no cost to participate in the club. Earlier this year, all four club members participated in a tournament on Kelly Road in Prince George. “Jonas got gold in the 48 kg category, and Sig got silver in the 74 kg category,” said Phillips. “Kyle Quam, who is in Grade 7, competed in the 84 kg category against Grade 11 and 12 students. That was only his second tournament. And Mark Antypov, who’s in Grade 8, competed in the 60 kg category in his very first tournament.” Keim and Harstad, who are both in their third year of wrestling, also competed in the High School Wrestling Zone Championships in Vanderhoof, Feb-

ruary 10 and 11. “Jonas got gold and Sig got bronze in their respective age categories,” said Phillips. “They do well at every tournament they go to.” The top four positions in each division qualify for the Provincial High School Wrestling Championships. “We usually have one or two guys go to the provincials,” said Phillips. “Jonas went to the provincials the last couple of years already, and this was Sig’s second time at provincials.” “It was amazing to compete in front of so many people and wrestle the higher caliber competitors,” said Harstad. Harstad got into wrestling because of a strong interest to learn any martial art he could. “Now it is my favorite,” he said. “I like the one on one aspect of it. I get in better physical condition every year. I also like coaching the younger kids and helping them get their start.” “Provincials are always full of tough competition,” said Keim, who got into wrestling because he thought “that it would be fun to try”. “I just stuck with it. I have always enjoyed individual sports more than team sports and I enjoy the fact that strategy and technique are a huge part of wrestling. It is a sport that combines physical and mental skills into one. I’m in the 48 kg weight class this year and was in the 45kg last year and the year before.” Phillips has a martial arts background and has been in the top 10 in his weight class in B.C. in Judo. He also won a gold medal in Judo in the winter games in 1991. The club was recently able to get some new mats. “I would like to thank Derrick Shaw for all his hard work in getting the team the new mats,” said Phillips.

Valemount Real Estate Ltd. Property Management Local rental listings and management services www.valemountlistings.com www.rusticluxury.com

Jen Applebaum - Managing Broker 250-566-1323 rusticluxury@telus.net

16 • Wednesday February 29, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

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