Volume 27 Issue 12 by The Valley Sentinel

sentinel YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

WEDNESDAY March 21, 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 MOSTLY CLOUDY High: 2°C Low: -8°C Details pg 14

Hot Wheels

CBT INITIATIVES - PAGE 2

LIFESTYLE - PAGES 9-12

“Hot Wheels Team has fun with the BC Wheelchair Basketball Society”

ENTERTAINMENT - PAGE 19

In advance of the Rick Hansen Man In Motion 25th anniversary events, Avril Harris refereed the two days of games, and along with Nancy Harris brought the non-profit BC Wheelchair Basketball Society experience to McBride. The aim is to have fun and improve physical literacy, says Nancy Harris. The games allow those with physical disabilities or reduced mobility and those without disabilities to play with each other on an even level for exercise, fitness and competition. “We do a lot of work in the school curriculum,” says Harris. Everyone from pre-schoolers to high school students and other community members had the chance to take part last week. Above: Hot Wheels team member Doug Monroe takes a shot at the Roll Up the Rim to Win basket during an hour of fun that ended 2-2 in McBride on Friday, March 16. Photo by Matthew Wheeler

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2 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

UPFront

Local projects seeking CBT Community Initiatives funding M Marie Birkbeck Con t ribut or

“Community Initiatives”

Above: Laurie Cordell of CBT Cranbrook office was in attendance at the CIP presentations on Wednesday, March 14. Photo by Marie Birkbeck

ore than 100 people crowded into the Community Hall on Wednesday evening to present, listen to, support and vote for the proposals competing for a piece of the nearly $400,000 available for community based projects through Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) Community Initiatives Program (CIP). Distributed once a year on a per capita formula, CIP is one of CBT’s longest running programs and supports projects within individual communities in the Columbia Basin, which without funding might not be able to be undertaken. This year’s funding request total came in at a whopping $674,620.44! Facilitated by Anne Yanciw, Deputy Corporate Officer for the Village of Valemount with special guest Laurie Cordell, Planning and Development Manager of CBT, Cranbrook, the nearly 3 ½ hr evening heard 24 hopefuls present their requests. From purchasing ash trays, to renovating existing facilities, to replacing older equipment and appliances, to hosting a baseball camp, a skills development workshop, or a violence prevention program, to building a bike park, a ski hill, or a Big Foot Trail, to purchasing fire protection equipment, portable bleachers, a Resusci Anne, to capturing Valemount on Video, or implementing a marketing initiative, the range of applications was limited only by the imagination. After the brief 5-10 minute presentation and a Q & A session, audience members had the opportunity to rank each proposal on its own merit on a scale from one to ten. Given the attendance, a project could potentially earn in excess of 1000 pts. For a full list of applications please visit http://valemount.ca/Documents/2012_CBT_CIP_Applications.pdf The funding process is a 100% local decision. With more money requested than is available, it is definitely going to be a tough choice. The selection committee comprised of 4 local residents, Dee McEachern, Wendy Dyson, Bill Kruisselbrink, and Arnold Wied, , is going to have their work cut out for them determining how the funds will be distributed. They will be meeting over the next week to review the applications to assure that they meet with all the criteria that was set out at the beginning of the application process, compile the votes and make recommendations to Council on March 27, who will then make the final funding decisions. All applicants will be notified of the results of their application shortly thereafter.

FuNDINg For STuDENTS, NoT For wAgE hIkES. The BCTF is demanding a 15 per cent wage hike and other benefits that would cost $2 billion and raise taxes for BC families. Virtually all other public sector unions have settled for no wage increases. It’s unacceptable that schools are disrupted and that students and their families are inconvenienced over an unreasonable salary demand in difficult economic times. The union is making claims and demands that simply don’t add up.

BCTF CLAIMS AND DEMANDS

FACT

The union wants more paid time outside the classroom – sick leave for teachers on call, expanded bereavement and discretionary leave.

The government wants more time for teacher training and to ensure that Pro-D days really are for professional development.

The union says all teaching positions should be selected on the basis of seniority.

The government supports seniority but qualifications must also count so that math teachers teach math, and science teachers teach science.

The union says that teachers who perform poorly in evaluations will be dismissed – ‘one strike and you’re out’.

The government wants to support teacher improvement through a standardized evaluation process.

The union says that government refuses to negotiate.

There has been over a year of negotiations and 78 full bargaining sessions.

The union says that class size limits have been eliminated.

Class size limits will remain in place on all grades across BC.

The union says that BC has 700 fewer special needs teachers.

2100 new teaching assistants have been hired since 2001. And, with a new $165 million Learning Improvement Fund, we will hire more.

It’s time to focus on what matters most in education – BC’s students. That’s why we are focused on per-student funding which is at an all time high, not on wage increases. We all want to do more to make BC’s education system even better. It’s the driving force behind BC’s Education Plan that teachers, parents and students are helping to shape. Teachers care about their students. Parents care about their children’s future.

LET’S PUT STUDENTS BCEDPLAN.CA

REVISED MATERIAL

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 3

Local News

Job Options B.C. coming to Valemount Marie Birkbeck Contributor

re you out of work and need a hand getting back into the job market? Job Options BC is a new employment and skills training program funded through the Canadian-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement that can help unemployed British Columbians gain the skills, confidence and experience they need to find employment, and it is coming to Valemount If you are unemployed but not an Employment Insurance (EI) client and you want to become employed, this program is designed to help you. 10 people attended the meeting on Wednesday, March 14, in the Valemount Learning Centre to learn more about the Job Options BC program. Energy level was high as Kyla Kershaw, Employability and Life Skills Facilitator from Employment Action from Prince George conducted the information session and follow up interviews for enrollment. The 10 week program started Monday, March 19. Local resident Marion Farquharson is facilitating a group of up 8 students who met the criteria. Classes run Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. for 6 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of supported job search. The

first six weeks, for which students receive $50.00 a day training allowance, focus on Life Skills including communication, motivation, self esteem, goal setting, action planning and budgeting of both time and money, among others. The latter part of the program, unpaid, covers such topics as resumes, cover letters, Interviewing, on-line job search and research, using job banks, and networking with prospective employers, and perhaps some volunteer work experience. There is also up to six months of follow-up support available for those who need additional help to find and maintain employment or to regain employment if they lose a job. To be eligible for this program, participants must be at least 18 years of age, unemployed, not receiving EI or have had a claim in the past 3 years, or established a maternity or parental claim in the past 5 years. You must be a resident of British Columbia and legally entitled to work in Canada, not a student, and not participating in any other Labor Market Agreement funded program. The first program has barely begun and already plans are in the works for a second session to run in late spring/early summer. More details will be released as plans become formalized. For more information on Job Options BC call 1.866.409.8044.

“Helpful Program”

Above: On Wednesday, March 14, Kyla Kershaw, Employability and Life Skills Facilitator with Employment Action (Prince George) reviewed Job Options B.C. and convinced several attendees to enroll in the program. Photo by Marie Birkbeck

Lion’s Club Tab Weigh-in to benefit Easter Seal House Marie Birkbeck Contributor

ur local Lions Club has been collecting the pull tabs from aluminum beverage containers since 1992, all for a good cause. Last year, unfortunately, there were not enough tabs turned in to make the program work, so it is hoped that the supporters have continued to collect over the past few months. Lions’ member Rhoda Tamboline is reminding everyone that this Saturday March 24 at 10:00 am is the Lions Club tab “Weigh-In” Day in the Lions Hall. “There will be prizes and treats,” said Tamboline. Each year participants of the program bring their collection of tabs to the Lions Hall where the tabs are weighed and packaged. The tabs are then sent to a recycling depot in Kamloops where the club receives 60¢ per pound for them. Proceeds are forwarded to Easter Seal House in Prince George. Since 1983, the BC Lions Society Valemount for Children with Disabilities has provided a “home Learning away from home” for families visiting Prince George Centre to obtain medical treatment. Easter Seal House pro250-566-4601 vides over 1,700 beds annually for families and in-

The LOWER NORTH THOMPSON COMMUNITY FOREST SOCIETY is seeking applications from Logging, Road Building, Site Preparation, and/or Silviculture Contractors interested in inclusion on our Contractor List for operations under Community Forest Agreement K1Z. Please contact Mike Francis at 250-672-1941 or email LNTCFSociety@telus.net for further information and full eligibility requirements. Those selected will be invited to submit bids for contracts that may occur throughout the year. Contractors must live and work within the geographic area from Chase to Kamloops to McBride.

2012–2017 FOREST STEWARDSHIP PLAN, FL A17800 HAUER BROS. LUMBER LTD. Box 279 Valemount, B.C. V0E 2Z0 Fax: 566-4644 Tel: 566-4649

LOCAL JOB LOCAL JOB POSTINGS POSTINGS

Updated March 21, 2012

Updated Mar. 21, 2012  Banquet Servers  Bartender/Server  Camp Ground Attendant/ Fee Collector

 Cook/Chef  Counter Sales Clerk  Engineering Heavy Duty/

Field Mechanic. Front Desk Groomer/Operator Guest Service Agent Housekeepers Maintenance Person Night Audit Part time Banquet Servers Red Cross Swimming Instructor.  Servers/Bartenders  Track Maintainer  Traffic Control Person

       

Front desk staff can give you detailed information about each of these We areincluding here toinfo help. Please postings, on how to submit your application for these job opportunities.

call or drop in. For more information on these jobs or other employment assistance Valemount services visit us at Regency Learning Centre

Hauer Bros. have amended their Forest Stewardship Plan and will have the new plan and a map available at the Valemount Government Agent’s office for a 60 day review period ending May 16, 2012. Written comments may be sent to the address above, attention Ainslie Jackman or email to: jackman@valemount.com

dividuals in need. Located just three blocks from Prince George Regional Hospital, this cheerful 14 bed home in a quiet residential neighbourhood, has two levels with living rooms and bathrooms on each floor. The upper level is wheelchair accessible. So come on down and help the Lions give back to the community! Tamboline also wants to remind everyone that the Lions Recycle for Sight Program is collecting used eyeglasses. Until the end of March you can drop your used eyeglasses off at the Tamboline House at 1461 7th Ave. Eyeglasses are sent to a collection depot in Calgary where they are distributed to people in developing countries.

Place 1201-250-566-4601 5th Ave, Valemount.

www.valemountlearningcentre.org

Funded in whole or in part through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement

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

4 • Wednesday March 21, 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

A fine Mess

he only good thing about the situation in Afghanistan is Canadian troops are no longer there. I shudder to think of our troops in harms way with maniacal United States soldiers going house-tohouse murdering children in their sleep. NATO troops fit the description of foreign invaders rather than peacekeepers. I fear for the lives of soldiers in captivity or who may soon be captured. Fanatics and vengeful family members will be extra cruel to foreigners remaining in the region. Some media columnists are starting to compare Afghanistan with the war in Vietnam. What irritates me most is people like me were telling flag waving patriots ten years ago this is how it would go. I vividly remember the bravado and assurances that NATO under the flag of the United States was going to clean up Afghanistan and rid the world of the Taliban once and for all. They would rescue and protect the people of Afghanistan from oppression and civil war. They would set up watering holes, fast food restaurants and enter Afghan women into Miss Universe competitions. Beer, charbroiled burgers and sexual exploitation, that’s freedom baby. With a hearty “Oo-Rah!” troops and planes poured into the war stricken country, guns blazing. Ten years later the United States is forced to negotiate with the Taliban because after years of bloodshed it became apparent they could not be defeated. Now to add injury to insult, a soldier looses his mind and goes on a murderous rampage, only weeks after having a Koran burning barbeque at their main base. Oo-Rah! So much for keeping the Afghan people out of harms way. It wasn’t hard to foresee this eventuality. Pretend a nuclear-fuelled nation decided the “tyrannical” rule of Prime Minister Stephen Harper had to come to a sudden and dramatic end. In an effort to save us from unfettered oppression we are bombed into the “Stone Age.” Foreign troops have checkpoints set up all over the village as they battle “insurgents” hiding out in the Cariboos. Let’s say one of these foreigners gets an itchy trigger finger and blows a few of our family members away, including a couple of kids. What would we do? We’d give those troops more hurt than they could handle and if any made it back to their home countries they’d be seriously messed up for life. I don’t think we would care why they came, only the fact they did not belong and were causing us harm. The smartest thing the United States Military could do right now is order an immediate dishonourable discharge to the murderous soldier and hand him over to the Afghan people. Even if it meant letting them draw and quarter him in the streets, it would be far better than the bloodshed that is coming. The next smart thing is an immediate withdrawal of troops. My thoughts and prayers go out to all NATO troops in Afghanistan right now, may they come home soon.

SuBScriptionS:

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» MAILBAG

Site C Dam Response Dear Editor Re: Peace farmers question “green” energy promises of Site C Dam, February 29, 2012 I would like to provide some additional information about Site C. Readers may be interested to know that Site C is undergoing an independent federal-provincial environmental assessment process, which will include a joint review panel. As part of this process BC Hydro is identifying and assessing project effects on “environmental, economic, social, heritage and health” and opportunities to provide lasting benefits for the region and Aboriginal groups. Where effects cannot be avoided, BC Hydro is identifying and evaluating options for mitigation. Site C is specifically designed for the particular site conditions to ensure safety. BC Hydro’s technical work has included thorough geotechnical investigations over a number of years, resulting in upgrades to the historic project design. For example, in the upgraded design, the dam, generating station and spillway are reinforced with a large concrete buttress to improve foundation stability and enhance seismic protection.

AndreA Scholz

Publisher Production Manager publisher@thevalleysentinel.com

dAniel BettS

editor editor@thevalleysentinel.com

AdvertiSing

ads@thevalleysentinel.com office: drop Box: MAin: eMAil:

Finally, BC Hydro’s electricity system is integrated and does not pinpoint a single resource, such as Site C, to a single customer, such as the energy sector. Subject to approvals, all BC Hydro customers “including people and industry” would benefit from Site C. To learn more about Site C, visit bchydro. com/sitec. Sincerely, Dave Conway - Community Relations Manager, Site C - BC Hydro

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.

ubmit your letter to the editor by emailing it to editor@thevalleysentinel.com or drop by The Valley Sentinel office in Valemount.

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.

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 5

Community

A Mother Sends Thanks to the Robson Valley After Accident Donalda Beeson Contributor

ollowing a bad one-vehicle accident Friday, February 24, 2012, east of McBride, not too far from Valemount, Heather Durrand of Prince George expressed her extreme gratitude to people she may never meet. In a letter to the Editor of the Prince George Free Press, March 7, 2012, Durrand listed “The people who were willing to take the time to help five teenagers,” who due to bad road conditions were involved in a bad onevehicle accident in their 1993 Ford Explorer. “All five were wearing seatbelts and all five got out of the vehicle without a scratch or injury of any kind,” she said. The “vehicle was written off and their belongings were scattered all over the place.” She thanked the first truck driver on scene who, upon seeing the magnitude of the wreck, “was reluctant to leave his vehicle with the thought of what he might see.” The driver took the time out of his busy schedule to calm the shaken kids. She also

thanked the “CN Rail crew who saw the vehicle flip and took the time to call for help as there was no cell phone coverage in this area.” She thanked the other truck drivers who soon arrived on scene and “were able to reassure the teens that help had been called by the CN crew.” Last, but not least she thanked the RCMP constable who arrived from Valemount to help the young people. The Valley Sentinel learned later, Constable Price attended the accident. Durrand said she “could not say enough positive words for him.” As mother of two of the teens involved Durrand was mostly “thankful that this did not have a different outcome. There were prayers as the young people set out Friday night into the bad weather conditions and a number of miracles that night. They narrowly missed a moose earlier in the evening and the fact that all five had their seat belts on was a major factor. The rubber came off the wheels of the Explorer due to the force involved, along with blown windows.” In close, she took the opportunity to remind and encourage us all to wear our seat belts.

The Valley Sentinel nationally recognized Andrea Scholz Publisher

he Canadian Community Newspaper Association last week announced the finalist in the Canadian Newspaper Awards. The Valley Sentinel was honoured with a blue ribbon for being a finalist in the General Excellence category and is currently in the top 3 finalists for 3 different categories of similar sized circulation: Best All-Round Newspaper, Best Front Page, and Best Editorial Page. Astrid (Teveley) Frazier is among the top 3 fi-

nalists for Best Spot News Photography for her photograph used on the cover of The Valley Sentinel last summer of a road washout on Hwy 16 between Prince George and McBride. The competition was open to all newspapers that are members of the Canadian Community Newspaper Association. This year, 342 newspapers submitted 2494 entries from works published in 2011. Entries were reviewed by 72 peer judges from across the country. The winners of the 2012 Canadian Community Newspaper Awards will be announced on April 26.

Looking for work? We can help. Get the training and support you need to find and keep a job in B.C. Job search resources • Personal employment planning • Workshops and training • Specialized services

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES CENTRES Locations across B.C. Visit one near you. WorkBCCentres.ca 1.800.663.7867 TDD: 1.800.661.8773

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

Woodstove Exchange Program

•

• • • • • •

This offer only applies to the residents of the Village of Valemount and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George area from Tete Jaune to Albreda Only 10 rebates available! (may require attendance for limited entry draw) Exchange your old, uncertified woodstove (pre1994) for a new EPA-certified wood, pellet or gas heating appliance Receive a $750 rebate To get started stop by the Village of Valemount or our local retailers and pick up an Expression of Interest Form Initial Closing date for Expression of Interest is April 12, 2012 Local Retailers: Canoe Mountain Extreme Sports 1424 5th Ave. 250.566.9949 Valemount Home Hardware 1248 5th Ave. 250.566.4256

For further Information, please contact: Tom Dall at 250.566.4435 or email cao@valemount.ca

6 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Local News

Deer are becoming a problem in McBride village limits Birgit Stutz Con t ribut or

he increasing deer population in the village of McBride has created concerns amongst some residents. Deer wandering around town have been feeding off of shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens, fearlessly following humans, and aggressive deer have even chased and attacked pets. At the regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of McBride on March 13, McBride resident Ralph Bezanson presented Council with his concerns in regards to the increasing deer population in and around the Village of McBride municipality. Bezanson informed Council that he has talked to the RCMP, but was told to attend a Council meeting to make a complaint and asked Council for some type of solution to the deer problem. “The deer are aggressive, they are chasing dogs, eating flowers, eating gardens,” he told Council. Mayor Frazier replied that he was told by the conservation office in Victoria that deer aren’t within the local government’s jurisdiction and issues concerning wildlife need to be dealt with through the game branch. “It’s important that people keep phoning the conservation office and keep complaining,” he told the members of the public attending the Council

meeting. “The conservation office won’t accept third party information.” Bezanson said he will get a petition going, to which Frazier replied that that is a good way to get started. According to Brennan Clarke, Public Affairs Officer with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, conservation officers haven’t received any reports of aggressive deer in McBride between April 2011 up to now. “Conservation officers stress that cases of aggressive or dangerous deer should be reported to the conservation officer service,” said Clarke. “Cases will be dealt with on an individual basis depending on the circumstances.” Clarke said there is no fine for feeding wildlife in B.C., except where individual municipalities have passed bylaws to that effect. “Local governments experiencing urban deer issues are encouraged to develop detailed community management plans that include resident opinion surveys, deer population estimates, ‘nofeeding’ bylaws and educational initiative outlining various conflict reduction strategies,” he said. “The province is willing to help local communities manage deer and other wild animals in urban environments, however it is up to individual municipalities to initiate this process. Since every

community has a different geography, deer population and capacity for dealing with urban wildlife, solutions can vary depending on specific conditions and local attitudes.” Clarke said Ministry staff can help communities manage urban deer conflicts by taking part in planning committees, providing technical advice, developing hunting regulations, issuing permits to manage urban deer populations and loaning equipment to communities as required. “Some communities, such as Cranbrook, Kimberley and Invermere, have opted for limited culls as a way of reducing populations to a level where non-lethal, management tools can be used more effectively,” said Clarke. “As part of their deer management plans, communities must make full use of healthy deer carcasses resulting from these culls, for example by donating the meat to First Nations, or to local food banks or other charitable groups.” Wildlife experts advise that capturing deer in collapsible clover traps and euthanizing them with a bolt gun is the safest, most efficient and most humane method of deer control in urban areas. To make a complaint regarding wildlife issues, contact the Ministry of Environment’s Conservation Officer Service at 1-800-663-9453.

Robson Valley Region receives recreational investment The Office of Shirley Bond MLA Prin ce George - Valemoun t

hree local governments have been awarded grants through the Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development’s Community Recreation Program. In total, three projects in the Robson Valley will receive $455,157 to help develop individual recreational projects. “It is always great to see our rural communities successful in grant programs

like this one. Each of these projects will improve access and will enhance the opportunity for people to be more active. It was most fitting that I was able to announce the successful projects during the Rick Hansen anniversary relay events in the Robson Valley. I want to congratulate our local government representatives for their work on these projects. I am always proud to advocate on behalf of my constituents and it is through partnerships like these that we can improve the quality of life in communities like McBride and Valemount,” said Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount Regional District of Fraser-Fort George – Fraser River Regional Boat Launch - $24,000 Funds will be used to create a boat launch ramp on the Fraser River for private and recreational boaters and tour operators. This will help prevent riverbank erosion where unauthorized boat launching has occurred. Village of McBride – Village Loop Walking Trail - $126,700 Funds will be used to replace existing and build new sidewalks along 1st Avenue and Columbia. This will better connect residences with downtown, schools and recreation facilities. Village of Valemount – Big Foot Trail - $304,457 Funds will be used to construct over 3 km of walkways and trail that will connect the Visitor Information Centre, downtown, the library and museum. This will encourage physical and recreational activities for people of all ages.

“Rick Hansen Relay”

Back Row: Larry Peterson, Karen Doughty, Clair Harford, Christine Torgerson, Anna-Lynn Sanche, Bobbi Roe. Front Row: Marie Birkbeck, Dawson Heigh, Herve Lorde at the the wrap up event at the Info Centre. Herve Lorde is the Endurance Athlete who replaced Rick Hansen on many of the stops across Alberta. Valemount was the end of the line for him on this Relay. Photo by Marie Birkbeck

Local Government

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 7

Village of McBride Council Briefs from March 13

Know When to Make a

H o m e Wa r r a n t y Insurance Claim Febr uary 2011

nstruction Residential Co ide Gu Performance Y OVERED B MBIA HOMES C ISH COLU FOR NEW E IN BRIT NSURANC RRANTY I HOME WA

Owners of homes with home warranty insurance can search the new Residential Construction Performance Guide to ﬁnd out whether concerns they have with the quality of their homes may be covered by home warranty insurance.

View the Residential Construction Performance Guide to ﬁnd: • • • • •

criteria to help consumers self-evaluate possible defects the minimum required performance of new homes more than 200 performance guidelines possible defects in 15 major construction categories, and the most common defect claims.

This Guide can be viewed on the Reports and Publications section of the provincial Homeowner Protection Ofﬁce website. It’s free, easy to use and available online.

www.hpo.bc.ca Toll-free: 1-800-407-7757 Email: hpo@hpo.bc.ca

Village of McBride Zoning Amendment Bylaw Mayor Frazier moved that the “Village of McBride Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 721” be given third reading. The motion was seconded by Councillor Rejman and carried. Council meetings open to the public The public is reminded that the Village of McBride Council meetings as well as the Village of McBride budget meetings are open to the public. Dates for Council meetings, agendas and minutes, as well as information on how to address Council and provide input at a Council meeting can be found on the Village of McBride website at www.mcbride.ca. For more information, contact the Village of McBride at 250-569-2229. Additional information on Village happenings can also be found on Councillor Thompson’s blog at www. rickthompson.webs.com. Both Councillor Thompson and Mayor Frazier also maintain a Facebook page with public information.

New Residential Construction Guide Benefits Homeowners and Builders Homeowners have a new tool at their fingertipss to help them better understand how warranty providers evaluate claims for possible design, labour or material defects in new homes. The Residential Construction Performance Guide is the newest online resource available on the provincial Homeowner Protection Office website at www.hpo.bc.ca. It explains how homes covered by home warranty insurance should perform. Every new home built for sale by a licensed residential builder in B.C. is protected by mandatory third-party home warranty insurance. It’s the strongest system of construction defect insurance in Canada. “For most consumers, buying a new home is one of the largest financial investments they will make. So it’s essential that homebuyers can make that investment with confidence, knowing that they will not be faced with additional expenses to repair defects after they move in,” said Tony Gioventu, executive director of the Condominium Home Owners’ Association and an advocate for consumer protection. This simple, practical guide is easy to use. It outlines more than 200 possible defects that are searchable online. This includes the most common defect claims that might be submitted under a home warranty insurance policy – from windows that malfunction, to driveway or interior concrete floors that have cracked, to siding that has buckled. Designed primarily for conventional low-rise, wood-frame homes, the guide also provides some helpful guidelines for the common property of multi-unit buildings. Builders can also use the guide to help ensure that they deliver high performance homes.

send printable PDF to: publisher@thevalleysentinel.com Re: Week of March 19, BC Housing, Home Warranty

Deer problem Delegate and McBride resident Ralph Bezanson presented Council with his concerns in regards to the increasing deer population in and around the Village of McBride municipality which may cause a threat to humans and pets as well as property damages since the deer feed off of shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens. Bezanson informed Council that he has talked to the RCMP, but was told to attend a Council meeting to make a complaint and asked Council for some type of solution to the deer problem. Mayor Frazier replied that he was told by the conservation office in Victoria that deer aren’t within the local government’s jurisdiction and issues concerning wildlife need to be dealt with through the game branch. “Fish and Wildlife hasn’t received a lot of complaints,” said Mayor Frazier. “It’s important that people keep phoning the conservation office and keep complaining. The conservation office won’t accept third party information.” Bezanson said he will get a petition going, to which Frazier replied that is a good way to get started. Village staff will be looking into this issue further and will have more infor-

Village of McBride Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw Councillor Rejman moved that the “Village of McBride Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 720” be given third reading. The motion was seconded by Mayor Frazier and carried.

combined size: 10.42”wide x 8”high

Community garden workshop Delegate Nancy Taylor, Community Learning Outreach Co-ordinator with the Robson Valley Support Society, informed Council of the planned conference “Cultivating Community: Gardening together in the Robson Valley” that is scheduled for April 14 in regards to establishing a community garden in the McBride community. Taylor told Council that the Community Learning Project task group is looking for support from Council for the community garden concept and is inviting Council and members of the public to get involved by attending the conference.

Reports Councillors, EDO and CAO provided verbal reports. Prize for curling bonspiel In a letter addressed to Council, the McBride and District Chamber of Commerce invited Council to be a sponsor or show support of the upcoming McBride and District Chamber of Commerce Annual Loggers Mixed Open Curling Bonspiel scheduled for the weekend of March 30 to April 1 by donating prizes, gift certificates, cash or discounts on merchandise as well as inviting Council to participate in the bonspiel and attend the dinner and dance featuring a live band from Prince George, Mighty Ruckus. Mayor Frazier moved that the Village of McBride donates a prize between $50 and $75 for the McBride and District Chamber of Commerce Annual Loggers Mixed Open Curling Bonspiel. Councillor Thompson seconded the motion. The motion was carried.

Glacier Media Community Papers Publication/Location: The valley Sentinel (Valemeont)

he regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of McBride was held March 13 with Mayor Mike Frazier, Councillors Irene Rejman, Rick Thompson, Raj Basran and Lori Kimpton, Chief Administrative Officer Eliana Clements Deputy, Administrator/Treasurer Danielle Smith, and Economic Development Officer Margaret Graine in attendance. Thirteen members of the public were present as well.

mation at the next Council meeting.

11-082 - week 2 Homeowner Protection Ofﬁce

Birgit Stutz Contributor

8 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Village of Valemount Council Briefs Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

he regularly scheduled council meeting for the Village of Valemount was held on March 13, 2012. Mayor Andru McCracken, Councillors Christine Latimer, Hollie Blanchette, Sandy Salt and Dallas Bullock, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Tom Dall and Deputy Corporate Officer (DCO) Anne Yanciw were all in attendance. Delegations: Council received no delegations this week. Committee of the Whole: Council did not participate in a Committee of the Whole this week. Unfinished Business: There was no unfinished business. Correspondence for Action: There was no Correspondence for Action this week.

Village of Valemount 5 Year Financial Plan Preparation OPEN HOUSE April 3, 2012 @ 7:00 pm Council Chambers 735 Cranberry Lake Road All interested members of the public are invited to attend the Open House. This Open House is an information meeting regarding the Village of Valemount’s Procedure Bylaw, 5 Year Financial Plan and Budget. For those who are interested and/or unable to attend the Open House, you may pick up a copy of the above mentioned at the Municipal Office during business hours from March 26 - April 3, 2012. Lori McNee Director of Finance

Integrated Community Sustainability Plan The Village of Valemount is seeking for 2–4 at-large members willing to become members of a Community Sustainability Advisory Team. The Village of Valemount is starting an Integrated Community Sustainability Process in April 2012. According to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, Integrated Sustainability Planning is defined as “long-term planning—in consultation with community members—that provides direction for the community to realize sustainability objectives it has for the environmental, cultural, social and economic dimensions of its identity.” Community members will be engaged in reviewing and providing feedback on process documents through public events and online opportunities. The public at large will also be able to address social, cultural, economic, and environmental issues in order to create an Integrated Community Sustainability Plan. The Community Sustainability Advisory Team—nominated by Council—will review background information and public input and work with the municipality. If you are interested and committed in becoming a member of the Community Sustainability Advisory Team, please send a brief letter or email reflecting your interest in the community and what you can bring to the process. Contact: Silvio Gislimberti Village of Valemount, Box 168, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Email: edo@valemount.ca Deadline: 4:00 pm, Friday, March 30, 2012

Administrative Reports CAO Re: Development Variance Permit—Best Western Plus Hotel Councillor Salt made a motion for Council to approve staff to proceed with the Development Variance process as outlined in the Community Charter and Local Government Act for the building of a garage on the Best Western property. Councillor Latimer stepped out for this report, as her being the General Manager of the Best Western is a conflict of interest in this matter. Councillor Blanchette seconded this motion. CAO Re: Development Variance Permit—Valemount Car Wash and Mini Storage Councillor Bullock made a motion for Council to approve staff to proceed with the Development Variance process as outlined in the Community Charter and Local Government Act for the increase in the number of storage units on the property for the Valemount Car Wash and Mini Storage. Councillor Salt seconded this motion. CAO Re: Village of Valemount Garbage Collection Update Councillor Bullock made a motion for Council to post approve the purchase of the Garbage truck from Rickster Holdings in the amount of $5000.00 plus HST and to hire Amanda Cameron to complete the contract with Rickster Holdings, which will expire on May 4, 2012. Councillor Bullock also made a motion for council to approve the Village of Valemount to continue with the extra pick up services and to allow staff to have new contracts signed for these services before they continue. Councillor Salt seconded both these motions. CAO Re: Village of Valemount Mapping Upgrade Councillor Bullock made a motion for Council to have the CAO sign an agreement with Urban Systems in the amount of $22,200 to complete the Village Mapping Project. Councillor Blanchette seconded this motion. CAO Re: Visitor Information Centre 2012 Operations Councillor Salt made a motion for Council to approve that a committee of Council, consisting of Councillors Bullock and Latimer, be formed to work with staff in creating a contract with Adventure Management Ltd., which will be brought back for Council approval. Councillor Blanchette seconded this motion. CAO Re: Valemount Glacier Destinations Ltd. Councillor Bullock made a motion to have Council review and send a letter written by Mayor Mc-

Cracken to France Neige Inter national inviting them to visit our area, and to have the Grade12 French students take the letter with them on their trip to France. Councillor Blanchette seconded this motion. Economic Development Officer Report EDO Re: Resort Municipality Initiative Program—Memorandum of Understanding Councillor Latimer made a motion to have Council enter into an agreement with the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation and have the Mayor sign the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Resort Municipality Initiative Program. Financial Reports DOF Re: CARIP Public Report Councillor Salt made a motion to have Mayor and Council approve the 2011 CARIP report with the amendments, and to put the report on the Village website for public viewing. Councillor Latimer seconded this motion. DOF Re: Strategic Community Investment Funds Councillor Blanchette made a motion to have Mayor and Staff sign the agreement between the Village of Valemount and the Province for the distribution of the Strategic Community Investment Funds. Councillor Salt seconded this motion. Bylaws and Policies Village of Valemount Water Parcel Tax Amendment Bylaw No. 680, 2012 Councillor Blanchette carried a motion to have Mayor and Council approve a first, second, and third reading of Bylaw No. 680, 2012, to increase the current bylaw amount of $82.80 to $86.15 to reflect inflation costs of operating the water supply to residents. This rate has not been increased since 2010. Councillor Latimer seconded this motion. 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.

Plan to develop Community Farm requires Volunteers Jennifer Meagher CONTRIBUTOR

oger Beck has a Community Farm Plan with five other individuals “Who commit to farming together one day per week to benefit the community. Our team will develop a spirit of camaraderie and joy through community service.” Among these services include selling high quality, organically grown vegetables, and a monetary contribution of up to $1200 to the charity chosen by each team member for a total of up to $6000. Team members will work one eight hour per week work day for 18 weeks as well as two four hour days per week for two weeks in April. The team will grow, harvest, and distribute vegetables. Beck encourages positive people to come out since “vegetables are sensitive to our vibrations, which need to be joyful and loving toward all

living things (including weeds!)” so only positive people should apply. A strong sense of responsibility and commitment to the project is essential and team members will benefit by adding to their gardening knowledge and skills. He looks forward to “...forming a strong team, leading to a sense of personal satisfaction in addition to community service.” and spending time outdoors. Farming will take place on his farm in Tete Jaune on approximately a half acre of land growing a variety of organically grown vegetables that will benefit the community by not using chemicals, being only a short distance from farm to consumer decreasing environmental impact, and a charitable contribution. To build a community farm with Beck contact him at 566-9794 or autumnmelodie@gmail.com

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 9

Health And Wellness HEALTHY LIVING Amber Stayer Contributor

ave you noticed the increase in the amount of products popping up on shelves that are labelled Non-GMO, GMO Free or made with Non-GMO ingredients? This is an acronym for Non Genetically Modified Organisms, it means the product does not contain any foods that have been genetically engineered, altered, manipulated or modified at the molecular level. Some mass consumed food items are being modified to “assist” in the growth phase, prolong shelf life and give a higher vitamin content. GMO items such as corn, soy, canola and white sugar beet (for sugar processing) are grown in Canada. There has been an attempt to bring genetically modified wheat to farmers in North America but this was shot down by the farmers and consumers in 2004. Here is a list of some of the risks with GM foods: •

• • •

The seeds are owned by the company that has produced them, purchased by the farmer that is in no way allowed to save seed from these crops. This will cost the farmer more money, which in turn will cost you, the consumer, more. GMO crops being grown near Non-GMO crops could cross-contaminate them through pollination and equipment. There has been very little research on genetically modified foods that could tell us what repercussions these types of foods may have on our health. We could be at risk for increased allergies. More pesticides are used on GM crops.

Currently Health Canada does not have a mandatory rule for labelling of GM foods, it is completely voluntary for the producer to list any GM ingredients. The only way you are guaranteed that what you are purchasing is free from GM products is to buy organic or watch for the GMO free symbol. Here is a quick guide on GMO foods from www.cban.ca . You can find a detailed print out on there website.

Chart from www.cban.ca/gmfoods, check for updates

GM CROPS GROWN IN CANADA Product

Trait

Where on Shelves

1. Corn

Insect resistant herbicide tolerant

Corn ﬂakes • Corn chips • Cornstarch • Corn syrup • Corn oil and other corn ingredients in processed foods • Sweeteners like glucose and fructose • Eggs, milk and meat • Some sweetcorn

2. Canola

Herbicide tolerant

Canola oil • Eggs, milk and meat

3. Soy

Herbicide tolerant

Soy oil • Soy protein • Soy lecithin • Tofu • Soy beverages • Soy puddings • Eggs, milk and meat

4. Sugar beet

Herbicide tolerant

Sugar

GM FOODS IMPORTED TO CANADA Product

Grown in

Where on Shelves

5. Cottonseed oil

U.S.

Cottonseed oil • Vegetable oil in processed foods such as potato chips

6. Papaya

U.S. (Hawaii)

Papaya in fruit juices and other processed foods

7. Squash.

U.S

Some zucchini • Yellow crookneck and straightneck squash

8. Milk products (Bovine Growth Hormone)

U.S.

Milk solids and powder • Frozen desserts with dairy • Imported mixed drinks with milk ingredients

“Fun is Healthy!”

Left: McBride’s community wheelchair basketball teams following an afternoon of fun at McBride Secondary School on March 16. Back row from left to right: Doug Monroe, Derek Shaw, Marc von der Gonna, Cst. Pete Berndsen, Avril Harris with BC Wheelchair Basketball in Prince George, Ray Thiessen, Kairyn Russell-Janecke, Erich Monroe. Front row from left to right: Cpl. Barry Kennedy, Christine Monroe, Dannielle Alan, Ollie Schiefelbein, Raj Basran.. Photo by Matthew Wheeler

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10 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Health And Wellness

Change Your Body Image Not Your Body Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

hile the Robson Valley’s commitment to heath is commendable, there’s growing concern over how local men, boys, women and especially girls see themselves and worse, how they feel about themselves. With fitness classes raging, a plethora of rapid weight-loss strategies circulating, and Valemount Women’s Fitness Forum increasing in membership, it seems everyone is on a mission to gear up and get active for summer. If your objective is to improve overall health and wellness this is fantastic! However, if your only aspiration is to fit into those too-short shortshorts that you are likely too mature to wear anyways, then you might want to consider how your body image might be affecting you. Health Canada defines body image as the picture you have of your body, what it looks like in the mirror, and what you think it looks like to others. According to Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention (EDAP), it is also “how you feel in your body not just about your body.” A person with “positive body image” has a realistic body perception, celebrating its unique shape, and understanding it’s disconnect from our value as

a person. A person with “negative body image” feels unhappy and uncomfortable in their body, and usually has a distorted perception of it. What makes matters worse are having a negative self-image directly influences that of others’, especially younger generations. It affects your children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and friends. The National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) says disordered eating can start very young as students begin to compare their own bodies to those of peers, adults, celebrities, and role models. When you display an unrealistic example of beauty, unhealthy body weight, or surgically alter yourself, you create an unnatural ideal that the children in your life will struggle to ascertain. According to a 2002 Government of Canada survey, 1.5 per centof Canadian women aged 15 to 24 years have an eating disorder. Set a good example. Help encourage self-esteem in others by improving your own. Reflect on your experiences to understand where your unhealthy beliefs stem from and how you reinforce those beliefs in others. Accept yourself and stop spending unreasonable amounts of time, energy, and money, on superficial things. Make a concerted effort to love and treat your body with respect. Eat enough and get enough rest.

Costco sample a variety of physical activity to discover what you enjoy instead of punishing yourself with weight loss goals. NEDIC emphasis’ recognizing that the diet industry alone is a “$33 billion a year commercial enterprise that guarantees repeat customers by promoting misconceptions about health and weight,” and do not buy in. Avoid superﬁcial magazines and mass media that promote unrealistic standards. Consider how these media outlets portray you. Shun the scale. Incorporating good eating habits and regular exercise into your life is important but it is only second to starting with a healthy body image or you’ll never be happy no matter how diligent you are about losing weight. Help encourage and inspire each other by celebrating our diverse, natural, shapes and sizes. Surround yourself with friends that accept and celebrate their selves and you. Ultimately, it’s about accepting and loving yourself. The more you are able to do this, the more room you give your inner beauty to shine through.

“On the Ohm Front” McBride Yoga Workshop A

Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

“Pigeon Pose”

n entire weekend dedicated to yoga and relaxation, what could be better!? Recently Kripalu instructor Katrina Molendyk held five varied yoga classes over one inclusive weekend. As if offering yoga alone wasn’t karmic enough, all classes were by donation, and the use of the Robson Valley Community Hall was donated as well. Classes were open to all levels and varied goals, ranging from improved health to achieved enlightenment. Molendyk teaches traditional Kripalu yoga, which literally translates to compassion, and like all yoga, combines the mental and physical planes. The classes started Friday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. with a Happy Medium class, continued Saturday morning with a Morning Power class, Saturday afternoon with an Easy Yoga class, and then continued Sunday afternoon with a Power/Core class, finally finishing that night with a Restorative Relaxation class. Molendyk said on average she had about five people per class, so “all in all it was a success;...any turnout is a good turn out!” She “loved being able to offer a bit more of a variety of classes, and both the power classes offered were [] highest in attendance with six at each.” She said they were also “able to do a little metta meditation on Sunday night and...afternoon,” saying “it was really nice to bring that new element to the class.” Metta meditation she explained “is meditation for loving kindness. It was nice to share that with the class and send some extra love and kindness out to those that were there.” Molendyk couldn’t thank the Robson Valley Community Hall Board enough for allowing them use of the hall hence making the weekend possible! She also thanked those who took part in the weekend and all her classes thus far; “It was a really nice experience.” She looks forward to the possibility of bringing something like this to McBride again.

Above: On Friday, March 9, Jenny Shawara, Emilia Roth, and Meagan Taphorn take Yoga Instruction from Katrina Molendyk in McBride, B.C. Photo by Donalda Beeson

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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 11

Health And Wellness

Actively Attending to our Mental Wellness Rashmi Narayan CONTRIBUTOR

an you recall the top ten most called phone numbers without looking up your contact list on your cell phone? Can you say for sure if the word is accomodation or accommodation or acommodation without help from your computer’s word processor’s spell check feature? While the consumer market is able to discover new wonder products to help with dementia, new products and technologies might actually be affecting our mental capabilities. Cell phones, GPS, computers, to name a few, have made our life more convenient but it has probably come with a cost. Nicholas Carr, author of 2011 Pulitzer Prize finalist book “The Shallows: What the internet is doing to our brains”, talked recently on CBC Radio on how the pervasive use of technology is diminishing our intelligence. The human brain is extremely malleable and able to adapt to our surroundings. The mental and intellectual habits influence the structure of our brain at a biological level. Carr asserts that the internet allows us to engage in superficial kinds of thought – such as gathering lots of little bits of information and enabling us to multi-task – but it steals the opportunity for us to engage in more contemplative forms of thinking. He also referred to a study with London taxi drivers that showed that practicing complex navigation causes the hippocampus - the part of the brain that stores maps – to enlarge. Using a GPS weakens the navigational areas of our brain. This idea can be extended to how our intelligence is nurtured. Carr says that the highest levels of intelligence, such as conceptual intelligence, come when we move information into our long term memory. It is this intelligence that allows us to create and correlate all the information we’ve learned, look at the bigger picture and challenge conventional wisdom. We can’t mistake the ability to bring up information using the computer or phone with our biological memory. While we have the convenience of bringing up the stored phone numbers on our cell phones, we don’t challenge our memory to remember phone numbers the way we did when we had to use a land line. A suggestion to address developing our memorizing capacities is to use a landline as much as can and “force” ourselves to remember phone numbers. New technologies can make us “lazy” as we don’t have to make choices when unpredictable situations arise such as finding your way around without a GPS. Remember the days before Call Display when you didn’t know who was calling and didn’t have the choice

of filtering out calls? But in fact, it is our ability to be open and flexible that will nurture our mental capabilities. Try reverting to a paper map and take on the challenge and satisfaction of getting back on the right street! Auto spell checks in word processing programs and email programs have also made us lazy as we are not forced to remember spellings anymore. While some might argue that we don’t tie our brains with information that can be easily accessed, I think it is the effort of nurturing memory and higher intelligence that is paramount. The use of cell phones and social networking websites has increased our ability to connect but the question to ask is: are the communications superficial or meaningful? Should engaging with people on a personal level be replaced by texting and Facebook? By reducing active interactions, we lose our ability to read people or to learn to work with different kinds of people – traits that serve us well at home and the workplace. Mythologist and storyteller Michael Meade expressed his concerns about social networking websites in the Sun magazine in November 2011. He said, “We have the capacity and need to participate in the larger world. The World Wide Web with its horizontal strands lacks a vertical dimension. The real web of the world has vertical extension as well as horizontal dimension.” The vertical dimension refers to our connection with a higher power and our ability to contemplate our individual place in the bigger picture. The horizontal dimension he refers to is our connection to our community of family and friends. The brain can change physiologically and function with behavior and practice. We need to pay attention to how we are working out this valuable cognitive muscle. As we notice our aging friends and relatives fall prey to dementia, we can ask ourselves what small steps we can take to delay or prevent the slide down that slippery slope? Can visiting older friends and relatives keep us all mentally stimulated a little longer? Can working on crossword puzzles, Sudoku or learning a new language recharge parts of our brain under-challenged since we’ve taken a course? I am not asking that we eliminate technology from our lives. It has a place in today’s world. However we can think twice about how much we choose to use it and when it takes away from developing our mental capabilities and meaningful connections with people. Rashmi Narayan runs a health foods store in Valemount, BC

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12 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Awaken your inner voice Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

nother invigorating opportunity made available in the Robson Valley; join sacred singer Danielea Castell and “gently discover how you can create health and humour with the sound of your voice.” Saturday morning, March 31, 2012, Castell will be in Valemount facilitating an Awaken Your Spirit Voice Workshop from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Seniors Hall, 1300 Main Street. According to her invitation, “Most people use their voice to communicate verbally.” She invites you to Awaken Your Spirit Voice. It is an “opportunity to discover how to use the sound of your voice as a tool for spiritual connection, wellness and creativity.” Castell’s workshop begins with a gentle physical and vocal warm-up and then takes you into “the timeless space of sacred sound through the colourful drone of the harmonium.” Vocal meditation teaches “how to amplify your vibration and direct it where you choose with your mind;” a tool you can use “to cleanse your energy centres or chakras, improve focus, manage pain, or send healing vibrations to others.” In addition to it’s spiritual and health application, “contemplative sound practices are wonderful preparation for free sounding and improvisation,” and a chance to celebrate your unique sound in creative and liberating ways.” Through her “simple step-bystep exercises you quickly remember your playful, innocent, trusting, spontaneous self, and start having fun playing with others in sound.” The workshop concludes with one of Castell’s signature song ceremonies. Castell “has been exploring the relationship between sound, spirituality, and creative expression for 24 years. As a singer and composer her specialty is invocations and musical meditations.” Castell got her start “facilitating voice empowerment with children and youth in the educational theatre world in 1988 and then transitioned to sacred sound in 2004 to address a personal health challenge. In 2006 she began leading Sounds Alive

chant experiences for adults in Nanaimo with renowned cellist Allannah Dow, and facilitating sacred sound workshops which combined both her passions: contemplative and expressive voice.” As if her voice work with people wasn’t enough, she is “also known for her innovative workshops and events in nature called soundweaving. She recently organized PG’s first community soundweaving ceremony for the trees and forests of BC on Feb. 14, 2012, World Sound Healing Day.” Living in eight different countries, three of which were Islamic has given her “a deep appreciation for cross-cultural relations. She is certified in both Yoga of the Voice© and Conscious Language© and has a private practice in Prince George offering Voice 1:1 Mentoring for Women. Preregistration for the Awaken Your Spirit Voice workshop is required. To register, call Regena Bergen at (250) 566 9181 or email coreyregena@hotmail. com. No previous singing or chanting experience is required or relevant. The workshop fee is $65. Please dress in layers, wear loose comfortable clothing, and bring a closed water bottle and a light snack for energy during the 15-minute break. Samples of Castell’s music can be found at www.oneconsciousvoice.com

What is Chanting? Donalda Beeson CONTRIBUTOR

n preparation for the coming of chant leader, sound yogi, voice mentor, and sacred singer Danielea Castell to the Robson Valley we thought we would briefly explore what Chanting is. “When we chant we remember the sacredness of our voice and unite with others to amplify the sacred in our world,” says Castell. Chanting “is one of the oldest ways people in groups connect with nature and spirit. Sung either a capella or accompanied by a drone instrument, chants are simple melodies of higher frequency with few words, sometimes in English but

“Sacred Singer”

Above: Danielea Castell is coming to the valley on March 31 to “Awaken Your Spirit Voice.” Promotional Photo

more often in Sanskrit, Hebrew, Arabic, and Latin. The power of chanting comes from its repetition, sometimes as many as 108x, which accumulates spiritual energy in an individual’s body and in the group’s field.” In addition to spiritual attunement, there are plenty of physical and emotional benefits to chanting as well. Benefits, which have been scientifically documented, include its ability to expand lung capacity, increase oxygen flow, and lower blood pressure as well as heart rate. It is also a good way to release physical tension and stress while increasing energy, vitality and of course it releases endorphins (your ‘feel good’ vibe). Go ahead; chant a little.

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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 13

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Pre-approvals • Purchases Refinances • Consolidations Rental Property Self Employed Mortgages New to Canada • Vacation Home

Sunglasses and Eyewear also available at ROCKY MOUNTAIN EYE WEAR At Parks West Mall in Hinton, Alta. 1-780-865-3011

P: 250-426-8211 ext 375 Cell: 250-421-7600 E: debra_parker@centum.ca

New in the Robson Valley:

HAUGK

HOME DESIGNS & RENOVATIONS Licenced Journeyman with over 30 years experience

Kitchen Bath Doors Windows Cabinets Floors Tiles Painting Insulation and more call Andreas @ 250 569 0004 / c: 981 0457 andreashaugk@shaw.ca

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

Looking out for your best Interest.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

RHex’so Recycling

YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR NEWSPAPER

ours of

peration

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

Now o refu ffering n f bot d on a ull ll b *Pic tles eer a k up s ca nd c n be a arra ns ng

250-566-4453

Fir Timbers Available

250-566-4425

Call liz or KiM everard at 250.566.9111

reduCe • reuse • reCyCle

CHURCH LISTINGS VALEMOUNT

YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER

Located in the Karas Mall, Valemount Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 am - 11:00 pm Sunday 12:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Mondays

Debra Parker AMP Mortgage Consultant

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

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

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

ROCKO’S MUSIC All Music Supplies available

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

Assorted Blues Harps, Strings, Cords, Capos, Mikes, Stands, Chord Books, Song Books, & Local Cd’s

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES

Rocko’s Music - 250-968-4335 Brown Rd. Dunster Just Past Vogels

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

VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 250 566-9996

Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

Systems

Valley

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

DUNSTER

ROCKO’S CHURCH

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

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

MCBRIDE

joel_valleygeo@telus.net

Wednesday & Friday in Valemount

Sands Bulk Sales LTD Husky Oil Limited

845 Cedarside Rd. Valemount BC Phone: 250-566-4818 or 1-866-566-4818 Thursdays in McBride Fax: 250-566-4815 Micah Yoder, Registered Acupuncturist Cardlock and bulk plant facility

Phone: 250-566-1782

Fuel truck for all your delivery needs

Clearwater Glass Ltd.

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

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.

Ly tt

ge le C a r t a

INCOME TAX RETURNS Personal & Small Business Number Cruncher Accounting

Now serving Valemount as well as McBride. Will pick up in Valemount. Call Amy Vause for an appointment at 250 569-0171.

Speedy returns - Ask about Instant Refund

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

197 Dominion, 250 569-2606 Sun. Communion Service 11am

Smart Nuts Technology

Call for quote: 250-566-4425

Returning Flow Acupuncture

ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

14 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Activities WEEKLY HOROSCOPE by MICHAEL O’CONNOR Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) The New Moon in your sign will activate your focus. You will feel the desire to take some key initiatives and perhaps make a few important investments. The biggest challenge stands to know what these are. Preparing the ground for future prospects is likely, yet the bulk of your focus will be upon planning and visualizing. Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) The desire and perhaps even the need to take some time out are in focus. You may feel inspired to attend to small projects and perhaps engage in some socializing, yet avoiding big projects and events will prove appealing. Sharing dreams and quieter time with friends will prove most satisfying. Yet, your ambitions will be brewing all the while.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Duck cartoon character 6. Town in Guinea 11. Upright posture 12. Rest on your knees 13. Move upward 15. Disposed to take risks 18. Makes a sweater 19. Grooved surface of a tire 20. Identical in kind 21. Radiotelegraphic signal 24. “Picnic” author William 25. Bashkir Republic capital 26. Male highlanders 30. Doing several things at once 32. Title of respect

CLUES DOWN 1. Proper fractions 2. Ridgeline 3. Marshland area of E. England 4. Flood Control District 5. Canadian province (abbr.) 6. Project Runway designer judge’s initials 7. Along with 8. Orderly and clean 9. A short-barreled pocket pistol 10. Extraterrestrial being 13. Ancient capital of Ethiopia 14. Goof 16. Annoy constantly 17. Haitian monetary unit (abbr.) 21. Arrived extinct 22. Belonging to a thing 23. Tounge click 26. Fireman’s signal 27. Connecticut 28. 3rd tone of the scale

33. Old world, new 35. “Sophie’s Choice” actress 43. Encloses completely 44. Decaliter 45. Makes angry 48. Commercial free network 49. Latvian capital 50. Tycho __, Danish astronomer 52. Leave slowly and hesitantly 53. Harm to property 55. Dining, pool and coffee 56. Remove all traces of 58. Yemen capital 59. Passover feast and ceremony 60. Trenches

29. Language spoken in Russia 31. Split occupancy 34. Diacritics for s’s 36. Mobile camper 37. Affirmative (slang) 38. Bachelor of Laws 39. ___ Angeles 40. State police 41. U.S. gold coin worth 10 dollars 42. Bets on 45. Million barrels per day (abbr.) 46. Macaws 47. Julie Andrews and Judi Dench 49. Capital of Morocco 51. Oh, God! 52. ____ Carvey, comedian 54. Point midway between E and SE 55. Principle of Chinese philoshophy 57. Trauma center 58. Atomic #62

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Some activation in the friendship department is likely to produce some festive occasions. With a new season underway someone has to stir thingsup. Yet, you are also in the mood to play it safe. Gatherings with family and close friends could be the ticket. That could be the ideal opportunity to get an early start on spring cleaning. Now, who to enlist to help…? Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) The time has come to be more assertive. This may take others and even you by surprise. Feeling confident about your ideas and choices may not be so easy yet you will feel moved to try. Family and or friend time will prove extra important. Yet, you will have to take the lead. Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) You have entered a complicated period that could leave you feeling a little lost. There will be some adventure, however, which will keep things interesting. If you have plans to make, do it now unless they can wait until mid April. Do gather whatever tools and techniques you feel you need even if investment in required. Above all, go easy on yourself. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) The time has come to do some extra investigative work. Taxes, debts, investments, inheritances and/or litigation are all likely categories. Spiritual, philosophical or other scholarly studies could also prove extra appealing. What constitutes fairness, justice and balance in general will prompt your focus into the deeper reaches. Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Something new is being activated in your relationships. While significant others are likely involved, the emphasis is upon the relationship you have with your own self and sense of individuality. This is prompting you to dig beneath the surface. The good news is that there is gold in there. The tricky part is that these riches are linked to others. Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) Changes in your lifestyle will be sparked by this New Moon. Some of these may come about as if suddenly. You may still not feel as though you are standing on solid ground and may not for a while yet, so remain patient and flexible. Positively, definite signs of improvement and increase in your relationships give reason to be grateful.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

WEATHER FORECAST WEDNESDAY Daytime Condition

Mostly Cloudy

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

40% 2°C -8°C --

THURSDAY

Daytime Condition

Mostly Cloudy

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

40% 2°C -5°C --

FRIDAY Daytime Condition

Partly Sunny

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

20% 3°C -7°C -

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) The time has come to take some creative leads. Many ideas are running through your mind, but taking action is another issue. The time is right to at least take some preliminary measures. Knowing what you want is a good first step. By the time of the Full Moon anyway you will ideally have taking key risks and measures to initiate a plan of action. Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Some shifting and shaking can be expected close to home over the next few weeks. No body will have to ask or tell you since you will act independently. If you feel blocked, family members will likely hear about it. Yet it is probably your own subconscious fears that are in the way. The key is to give yourself permission to do what you feel you want and must. Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) Many new thoughts and perceptions will be activated by this lunar cycle. Making efforts to be understanding of and understood by significant others could pose some challenges. Seeing through and beyond surface realities will bring rewards. Things are not always what they seem and if you have any doubts, take your time to probe for answers that have a future. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) This New Moon will spark you into action. It may feel like you have been climbing a slippery slope lately. A general distrust or lack faith in others or concerns about their impressions about you may be holding you back. These are likely unfounded and a good way to find out is to be more direct in your communications. Get clear on what you want and act upon it now!

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

Community

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 15

Local Women’s Counsellor Recognized Donalda Beeson Contributor

“Notable achievement”

Above: Local Women’s Counsellor and Community Learning Outreach Coordinator for the Robson Valley Support Society displays her well earned award. Photo by Larry Stamm

unster’s own Nancy Taylor was recognized recently for 22-years of service in violence prevention work at the first ever Long-Term Service Awards at the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) conference in Vancouver. Taylor has sat on their Board of Directors for the North East re-

gion for four, two-year terms, citing them as a healthy and progressive organization that is well run as a non-profit through collaboration and consultation. Women’s Counsellor and Community Learning Outreach Coordinator for the Robson Valley Support Society (RVSS), Taylor’s name was put forward by their Executive Director, Melanie Johnson, who said that, “In 1990, Nancy and I both started working on a very casual basis for what was then the “Robson Valley Home Support Society. Over the years, our agency and programming have grown to cover much more than the home support services it started. Since its inception in 1992, Nancy has worked with and been involved in our Stopping the Violence Against Women and Children program...She has also taken on the roles of the Stopping the Violence Outreach Services Coordinator and as the Safe Homes Coordinator. Nancy has always been passionate about ending violence against women and children. It is her passion that made it my pleasure to nominate her, on behalf of RVSS, for an award that honours her commitment to this work.” On receiving the award, Taylor said it was incredible being up there with other women, “pioneers of the field” whom she has so much respect and admiration for, and recognizing how far they have come over the past 20 to 25 years in terms of their response to women who are experiencing violence. In addition she said, “It’s an honour and privilege

to sit on the Board of EVA BC and [she is] grateful for the RVSS Board’s support of the work [she does] with EVA on behalf of 240 anti-violence programs across the province.” One point Taylor wanted to communicate about this work is that “it is the kind of work where you are continuously learning.” Taylor has a “voracious appetite for learning.” Where most of her learning has come from is bearing witness to the stories of women; her clients. Her “more formalized learning comes from how leaders in the field have made sense of those stories [from] the collective voice of women who have lived with violence,” and how from there they’ve developed their programs “from the ground up.” While maintaining they’ve “come a long way in opening up the conversation and providing services,” Taylor identified two gaps that still need attention: “services to men who use violence in their relationships and addressing sexual assault and sexually abused women.” Taylor wanted to broaden her own scope of practice, so she completed her Masters in Counselling in 2009. Now she also operates a private practice out of her home where in addition to women, she is also able to work with men and couples. She also offers clinical supervision and consulting to other STV counsellors and human service workers in the region, as well as Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselling. Congratulations Nancy.

Medicine Wheel teachings in McBride Naomi Balla-Boudreau Contirbutor

group of twelve gathered at the back of the McBride & District Public Library on Wednesday, March 7 to learn about the medicine wheel and other aspects of Native culture from Angel Fraser. For Fraser, teaching others about Native culture is part of her journey of self-discovery and giving back to the community of McBride. She grew up outside of Edmonton unsure of her Native heritage; she was adopted by a white family as a baby, and attended a reserve school. When people would ask, “what are you?” she’d respond “I’m a Fraser.” Still, she felt like that wasn’t the whole answer. She wanted to learn about her biological family and her Native heritage. When she was 18 and in Vancouver, pieces started to come together. One day she passed a Native elder who was a street artist. He called her over and gave her some literature on Native culture. She took it to a bakery nearby and read for hours; it was the beginning of her learning. A year later she began a similarly serendipitous search for her biological family. She found them just as her adoption records were about to be shredded. Today, her father is her inspiration and she has roots in Cold Lake, Alberta. She’s learning the Dene language, and dreams of being able to speak fluently. “I’m a Denesuline (den-eh-soo-cle-nay) woman who is very proud,” said Fraser, “and that’s why I came to share with you today.” Fraser began her talk by describing four gifts from the Creator that can bring a community together: the sweat lodge, the sun dance, the drum, and the medicine wheel. “First Nations people love symbols, and we love to tell their stories,” Fraser noted, and so she described the symbolism of the medicine wheel: its four directions, four colours, four cultures, four elements, four principles, and four parts of the body. The east represents red, for example, as well as First Nations people, the element of fire, kindness, and the heart or spirituality. Today the medicine wheel is often used as a tool for problem-solving and healing, whether by individuals in daily prayer or Band Councils making community-level decisions. When considering housing issues, for example, a Council would look at all of the aspects associated with the medicine wheel to help come to a consensus.

New at the McBride Public Library Adult fiction

The Rose Trilogy – Beverly Lewis The Chalice of Blood – Peter Tremayne A Discovery of Witches – Deborah Harkness The House I Loved – Tatiana de Rosnay

Adult Non-fiction

Boomerang: Travels in the new third world – Michael Lewis Dark Markets: Cyberthieves, cybercops and you – Misha Glenny John A: The man who made us – Richard Gwyn What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Heart Disease – Mark Houston

Junior

Tilt – Alan Cumyn The Emporer’s Code (The 39 Clues) – Gordon Korman The Darkest Hour (Warriors series) – Erin Hunter 102 Children’s Songs (CD, vols 1-3)

DVD

“Four gifts from the Creator”

Above: On Wednesday, March 7, Angel Fraser led a workshop on Native Teachings at the McBride & District Public Library. Photo by Naomi Balla Boudreau

Green Card Your Love Never Fails Intolerable Cruelty The Break-Up

Come by the library for free internet access or “like” us on

Fraser ended the talk with a song on her drum. The Facebook to keep up with new titles and events! drum, made by Mike Finnerty and painted by Miwww. mcbride.bclibrary.ca cheline Bernard – a Winnipeg-based artist that Fraser met while working at the Heartland Restaurant – gave powerful rhythm to Fraser’s voice as she Valemount Elementary Chess Tournament-March 16, 2012 sang a woman’s warrior song and her own Mrs. Reimer with the help of many of our students, organized a fun Chess Tournament for song of honour. Fraser students from Grades 1-7. There was some great competition; we have some talented chess players. has a lot to share, and Thank you Mrs. Reimer and the students who helped make this event possible. her energy and stories lingered along with her Winners are as follows: song while the crowd MEDAL GOLD SILVER BRONZE enjoyed her fried bannock and coffee. Grade 1 Weston Smith Abigail Cinnamon Izabela Gunderson Fraser will return Freddie Darrag to the McBride & DisGrade 2 Karlie Lawless Riley Kunka Riley Hill trict Public Library on Grade 3 Ben Dempsey Zachary Williams Dawson Wikstrom Wednesday, March 21 Grade 4 Alex Mueck Khaedren Bos Jason VanDerWilk to present the teachings Grade 5 Matthew Lawless Wyatt Wikstrom Michael Gunderson again, so come if you Grade 6 Eston Bustin Ian Forman Niam Karas Grade 7 Manuel Lerch Josh Thorpe Austin Funk missed it the first time.

16 • Wednesday March 21, 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 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 EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

RENTALS

HELP WANTED

Now Hiring Seasonal Full-time and Part-time VISITOR INFORMATION COUNSELLORS for The Valemount Visitor Centre, and The British Columbia Visitor Centre@ Mt. Robson, and NATURAL HISTORY INTERPRETER/VISITOR INFORMATION COUNSELLOR For the The Valemount Visitor Centre

Mature reliable waitress/ prep-cook, 40 hours/ week 755974 BC Ltd. Restaurant. Wages start at $11.75 per hour. Apply to: karen4u30@hotmail.com

For more info: www.adventuremanagement.ca

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.

Application Deadline: March 30, 2012 Email: jobs@adventuremanagement.ca EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Drivers required for the safe and courteous transportation of Railway Crews. Job is based out of BLUE RIVER. Clean abstract is required. This is a 24/7 on-call operation. Pay is a flatrate per trip, based on $15.00/hour. You will need a class 1, 2, or 4 driver’s licence. If you need to upgrade we may assist, some conditions apply. Retired and Semi-Retired more than welcome! To apply contact John Hollis either at John.Hollis@HallconCrewTransport.com or by fax to 780-468-4617. EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

F/T customer service (inside sales) person. Must have retail experience. Building & hardware experience a plus; F/T customer service (outside sales) person. Retail bldg & hardware exp a must, mechanical/small engine knowledge an asset. Applicants must be motivated and team players. No phone calls please. Drop off resume to Box D c/o The Times, #14 – 74 Young Road, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N2 EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

THE CORPORATION OF THE VILLAGE OF MCBRIDE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Village of McBride invites applications for the position of

Public Works Foreman/Supervisor The Village of McBride is looking for a full time Public Works Foreman/Supervisor. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the successful applicant will be involved in the efficient day to day operations of the Public Works Department. This position is a working, “hands-on” position. This individual will be responsible for organization, planning, supervision, direction and operation of the department. This position will be required to work a minimum of 40 hour work week and will be required to work flexible shifts including weekends when necessary.

MAR 21

A resume complete with references, qualifications and work experience should be submitted to: Eliana Clements, Chief Administrative Officer Village of McBride 100 Robson Centre – 855 SW Frontage Road PO Box 519 McBride, BC, V0J 2E0 Telephone: (250)569-2229 Fax No: (250)569-3276 Email: eliana@mcbride.ca Applications must be received before 4:00 pm Thursday, April 5, 2012 We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.

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 MAR 21

AUTOMOBILES

GTS JAN 25

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 GTS NOV 2

1995 Blue SUBARU JUSTY 4WD - $1200 OBO Contact 250-981-1621 GTS OCT 26

4 bedroom home for rent in McBride. Wood stove. Nice landscaped yard. Mature family only $800 month. 250-566-9126 CN Apts 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites $520 and $590 per month plus Hydro. On site laundry, no pets please. Call Scott 250-566-1569 MAR 21

MISC. FOR SALE 1998 380 SKIDOO. Asking $1500.00 - Call for more information 250-566-9834

Sold

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

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 GTS JULY 20

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Birch fire wood small size 7 axle logging truck load $1150.00 delivered in McBride Area contact 250569-2471 MAR 21

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

TRAVEL TRAILER

newspapers!

2007 Prowler Travel Trailer 24 foot. Like new, rarely used. Nice floor plan, Full bathroom, shower, stove, oven, microwave, sleeps six. Large awning. Must be seen - 250-566-9834 $15,000.

sentinel THE VALLEY

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

Celebrating 25 Years ~since 1986~

GTS SEPT 14

WANTED

Spruce Pine Balsam standing timber or logs call Derek at 566-1419 APR 4

Full size 1” X 6” aromatic cedar boards; small quantity, rough cut. Contact Al Pernicelle 250-569-2602 or email outofsquare@mcbridebc.com MAR 28

Reliable Verified Recognized Professional Engaging Experienced

RENTALS

RENTAL LISTINGS VALEMOUNT REAL ESTATE #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 3 Bdrms, 2 Baths: Double-wide trailer on town lot w/wired workshop. Propane/wood heat. Pet ok. $775 3 Bdrm house in fully renovated Duplex property. Electric/wood heat. Laundry, shed storage, large fenced yard, Pet ok. $750. May 1st.

#026-C

#004

#006-2

Photos and details at

MAR 28

GTS NOV 30

This Management position has a starting salary range of $60,000 - $65,000 per annum, dependent on experience and qualifications. A full copy of the job description including qualification required can be found on the Village’s website at www.mcbride.ca

RENTALS

www.rusticluxury.com Call Jen 250-566-1323 TRAILERS FOR SALE

LIVESTOCK / HAY

Mobile Home: 3 Bedrooms, small addition, 1 Bath with F/S, W/D $24,000 OBO Call Deanna 566-9086 or 566-1188 cell

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

GTS FEB 8

Grazing lease available for cows, fenced pasture with grass and water available. Call Terracana for details. 250-968-4304

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 FEB 15

MAR 21

TFN OCT 5

Hay for sale, $40 a round bale. Call Terracana 250968-4304 TFN OCT 5

Advertise Your Items For Sale in The Valley Sentinel Classifieds 250-566-4425 Only $6/week or $19.95 for our guaranteed to Sell! LESSONS

LESSONS

BALLROOM DANCING LESSONS 6-week course starting in April. WALTZ ~ FOXTROT ~ JIVE~ 2-STEP ~ POLKA plus warm-up fun dances! Instructor - Claude Germain Register at 566-9875 Cost $30 per person

CLASSIFIEDS WORK!

Hit your mark - Everytime! 250-566-4425

ads@thevalleysentinel.com www.thevalleysentinel.com

NOTES FROM ALL OVER Notes from All Over Donalda Beeson Contributor

Shoes Sought to Raise Awareness for Violence Against Women Week Robson Valley Support Society is seeking donations of women’s used shoes (all kinds: athletic, casual, dress, boots) for a Prevention of Violence Against Women Week event. April 15 to 21 is a week designated for raising awareness of violence against women. Please contact either office if you have a pair you would like to donate, (250) 566 9107 or (250) 569 2266. The shoes will be donated to a charitable thrift store after the event. Sustainable Living Leadership Program Seeks People People with a passion for the environment are being sought for the 2012 Sustainable Living Leadership Program. Selected participants will travel the length of the Fraser River from Valemount to Vancouver by foot, van, canoe, and raft. The program is managed by the Rivershed Society of B.C., which covers 90 per cent of the cost to participate. People who are 19 years or older and are physically fit are encouraged to apply by the May 18 deadline. World Water Day Thursday, March 22, 2012, is World Water Day. Drink water, save water, be aware where your water comes from and its value in this world. JasperLIFE Mountain Adventure Club: CAT Skiing/Boarding Monday, April 2, 2012, the JasperLIFE Mountain Adventure Club will be hosting a day of backcountry powder CAT skiing and boarding, not to mention amazing sights in the Cariboo Mountains west of Jasper. This adventure costs $250. Transportation is provided. Space is limited. Advanced registration is required. Contact JasperLIFE to sign up! 780-852-2100. New Moon New Beginnings Thursday, March 22, 2012 is the first New Moon of spring! The Moon will be directly between the Earth and the Sun and will not be visible from Earth. This new moon is sometimes called the Chaste Moon, and it is the time to plan a ritual to plant your desires. The dark side of the moon, with its mysterious unseen forces, offers a nurturing environment where our intentions can establish roots before their miraculous manifestations begin to sprout and reach out to the stars.

Corin Raymond and the Sundowners Live at the Dunster Fine Arts School March 28, 2012, the Dunster Fine Arts School Concert Series presents Corin Raymond and the Sundowners. This musical treat is being served up at 7:00 p.m. at the Dunster School. Spring Season: Yoga with Brigitta As the winter yoga season grinds to a halt, at least one yoga instructor in the Robson Valley will be continuing classes up until and including April 11, 2012. Brigitta McDonald will be continuing Hatha Yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Community Hall in Valemount. This class aims to improve flexibility, balance, and strength in a relaxing atmosphere and is suitable for all levels. New, is her Tuesday Hatha Yoga class for beginners from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. also at the Community Hall. This class is great for newcomers to Yoga to learn basics of breathing and alignment. Drop-in for all classes is $9.00 per class. Call Brigitta for more information at (250) 566 9196. Yoga for Seniors in Valemount Brigitta McDonald says teaching yoga to seniors is a great pleasure for her. This class is on Thursdays at 10 a.m. at the Seniors Lodge, and will continue until end of March and maybe longer if there is interest. This is a free class but you should call Brigitta for details (250) 566 9196. Valemount Elementary School Spring Book Fair March 26 to 30, 2012, is the Valemount Elementary School spring book fair, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Valemount’s Mental Health Support Group The last Thursday of every month Irene Brady is facilitating a mental health and addictions support group for any family members, partners, friends, loved ones, or even coworkers who are affected by the mental health of another person. It covers social anxiety, addictions, alcoholism, Alzheimer’s, eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, concurrent issues such as depression and alcoholism at the same time, and anything else in between. Come join in the conversation and feel supported. The next group meeting is March 29, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. in the old College of New Caledonia classroom downstairs from the former Learning Center location on Gorse Street in Valemount. If you are not sure if this group is right for you or not, you have any questions or want to confirm the meeting place and time, feel free to call Irene at (250) 566 1958. RDFFG Community Grants Congratulations to Valemount on obtaining Regional District of Fraser-Fort George on the following Community Grants: • $1495 to the Valemount Lions Club for liability insurance • $2000 to Valemount Secondary school for expenses related to travel to the provincial championships • $5000 to the Valemount Senior Citizens Housing Society for storage sheds New Vision and Mission for the Village of Valemount The Village of Valemount created a new vision and mission for their Valemount Corporate Strategic Plan. The new vision is “Striving for a Vibrant and Balanced Community” and the new mission is “To Serve the Community and Embrace Opportunity.” 1286 Week of 3.19.2012

Conjunction of Venus and Jupiter Stay near your telescope on March 25, 2012, the two brightest planets in the sky, Venus and Jupiter, will be near the crescent moon creating a dazzling evening spectacle.

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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.

New at the Valemount Public Library DVDs Hallmark Hall of Fame: A smile as big as the moon Love is never silent In from the night Loving Leah Pictures of Hollis Woods When love is not enough Have a little faith November Christmas Angelina Ballerina: Rose Fairy Princess In the wings Lights, camera, action!

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18 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

COMMUNITY EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS

Native Cultural Teachings March 21, 2012, 10:30 a.m.@ McBride & District Public Library For those who missed Angel the first time, join us for an encore presentation of her talk on Native Culture. Email essentials March 21 2012, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. @ McBride & District Public Library New to email? Want to learn the basics. Martina will be teaching the essentials of common, free accounts.

Cultivating Community: Gardening Together in the Robson valley Saturday, April 14, 2012, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At the McBride E-Free Church Hall. Registration $5, including lunch and door prizes! (Deadline Monday April 2). Forms available at the Library, RVSS, and Stedman’s (McBride); General Store (Dunster); Infinity (Valemount); Reading Room (Dome Creek) Workshops on a dozen exciting gardening topics; Displays of Seeds, Books, DVDs, Equipment, Local Growers’ Products; Keynote Speakers from Jasper and Prince George Community Gardens. For further information contact Naomi at 569-0429 or Al at 569-4101

Pajama Storytime March 23, 2012, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. @ McBride & District Public Library Wear your pjs and bring your favorite bedtime toy. We’ll have bedtime stories and songs.

Robson Valley Support Society is seeking donations of women’s used shoes (all kinds: athletic, casual, dress, boots) for a Prevention of Violence Against Women Week event. April 15th - 21st is a week designated for raising awareness of violence against women. Please contact either office if you have a pair you would like to donate. 566-9107 or 569-2266. The shoes will be donated to a charitable thrift store after the event.

Sentinel Historical Spotlight “Steamer B.C. Express”

Corin Raymond & The Sundowners Wednesday, March 28, 2012, 7 p.m. At the Dunster School as part of the Dunster Schoolhouse Concert Series $15 Adult $8 under 12

Steamer B.C. Express, photo taken 1913, L.J. Cole/H.A. Cole Collection Valemount Museum & Archives # 997.09.112

Scrabble Tournament @ McBride & District Public Library Saturday, March 31 at 2:30 p.m. All ages and interests come get your Scrabble on!

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.

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 21, 2012 • 19

ENTERTAINMENT

“Too Funny”

“A taste of Ireland in Valemount”

Above: On Monday, March 12 at the Valemount Community Theatre, the Valemount Arts and Cultural Society (VACS) presented Caladh Nua featuring (Left to Right) Eoin O’Meachair, Paddy Tutti, Lisa Butler, Derek Morrisey and Colm O’Caoimh. The audience enjoyed Irish and Blue Grass music during a fun show, which included some impromptu dancing and free refreshments. This was the last show for the 2012 Season of VACS. Photo by Augusto Pardo Bonafonte

Notorious “songster” coming to Dunster Daniel Betts Editor

“Don’t spend it honey!”

Above: Corin Raymond displays his collection of Canadian Tire Money. Photo Submitted

t started as a way to get drinking money. Last summer Corin Raymond co-wrote a song called, Don’t Spend it Honey, which referenced Canadian Tire money. “It made people happy in a very Canadian way,” said Raymond. During a tour through Alberta and the Yukon people in the audience would throw Canadian Tire money onto the stage or hand it to him after he played the song. Two bars in Toronto, Ont. accept Canadian Tire money on par. Raymond had plans of hosting a “big party” at one of these bars and buying the house drinks

on Canadian Tire. He planned to use footage from the event for a music video. In the course of speaking with Rogue Studios in Toronto, Ont. on an album Raymond and his Band, The Sundowners, were working on, he discovered Rogue Studios also accepted Canadian Tire money. Raymond made a short video to promote the idea of financing his album with Canadian Tire money and posted it on the Internet. The idea went viral. Within two days the story was on the front page of The Toronto Star. Raymond was featured on CBC’s As It Happens and The National. CTV National News and Global TV both did stories. “This Hour has 22 Minutes had a shout out on their show,” Raymond said proudly. “Its crazy, the whole thing is completely ludicrous.” Since the idea began, Raymond has collected close to $2,600 in Canadian Tire money to help finance his album. Fans and friends from across the country have sent him not only Canadian Tire money but personal artwork and stories. On Wednesday March 28, the Dunster School House Concert Series will presents Corin Raymond and The Sundowners, featuring their now famous song. Raymond calls himself a “songster,” a person who picks up songs, carries them and connects songs to other people. “I love sharing songs and I love spreading songs,” said Raymond. He says people often learn songs from him or pick up songs from him that he had learned somewhere else. “I play folk music. I call it porch music, but it’s music for folks.” Every week, when they are home, Corin Raymond and The Sundowners can be found playing at The Cameron House, which is billed as “Toronto’s original art music theatre bar,” located on Queen Street West. Raymond plays rhythm guitar, sings and entertains, while his talented band, whose members have seven Juno nominations between them, backs him up. This will be the first tour with his band in B.C. and Alberta. He’s been

Above: Comedian Lorne Elliott sizes up a heckler before heckling him back on some finer points of Dutch during his appearance in McBride Roundhouse Theatre March 12. Perhaps best known for his appearances on CBC including his own show “Madly Off In All Directions,” Elliott blew into town along with the windstorm and a hairstyle to match. He started the show with songs accompanied by guitar, including a lullaby for the tots in the audience, which seemed well planned to keep them wide awake for the rest of the evening with its bloodthirsty events involving wild animals. The show was wide-ranging classic Lorne Elliott with a twist of McBride humour–even curling, horses and lawyers made it in. The large but polite audience had to be cajoled into responding sometimes– “It’s not TV. I can hear you!” –while at other moments Elliott had to give a heckler a tutorial on timing and delivery. Photo by Matthew Wheeler

playing with The Sundowners for at least nine years. “I particularly love central B.C.,” said Raymond who has played the Arts Wells Festival for a couple of years. He is exciting to be playing in Dunster next Wednesday. “I’m from a small northern town, so I have an affection for outposts” Corin Raymond and The Sundowners will be bringing us “a little piece of Toronto” at the Dunster School House on Wednesday, March 28. Be sure to bring any Canadian Tire money you may have to toss on stage.

The Valemount Museum would like to extend a BIG Thank You to the Valemount Lion’s Club for the donation of more than 40 chairs. The Valemount Museum needed better chairs. The Lion’s Club heard of our need and donated the chairs they no longer need, after receiving a grant from the Columbia Basin Trust for purchasing new chairs. Also a BIG Thank You to Rhoda Tamboline and Barb Shepherd for organizing this donation, to Linda & Luke Hedberg, John Grogan, Gordon Wood and his nephew Jojo for moving the chairs. Jeannette Lorenz, Administrator, Valemount Museum Please check out our website: www.valemountmuseum.ca

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20 • Wednesday March 21, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

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