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Two duos to play in Valemount, more on page 7
Do you have hair to donate? Find out Sydnie’s story on page 8
THE VALLEY
Your Community Your Newspaper
Community
Avalanche claims two lives
Serving the Robson Valley since 1986
WEDNESDAY March 24, 2010 $1.19 Plus GST
Volume 25 Issue 12 www.thevalleysentinel.com
August hits Valemount in March
Local: Third fatal avalanche in 10 days claims two lives. Birgit Stutz Contributor
A
heli-skiing trip turned deadly for two skiers last weekend when a massive avalanche buried a total of three people in nearby Wells Gray Provincial Park. Valemount RCMP received a report of an avalanche occurring near MacAndrew Lake on Saturday, March 20, at approximately 3:00 p.m. According to Cpl. Dan Moskaluk, Media Relations Officer for the RCMP, the avalanche was triggered when a commercial licenced heli-ski operator took a group of ten skiers and two guides on a run in the Azure River Drainage area of the Cariboo Mountain range. Three of the skiers were buried in the avalanche, with one male being quickly recovered without injury. The two other men were located with the assistance of their avalanche beacon locators. However, they were found unconscious, and first aid attempts by an on-scene physician were unsuccessful in resuscitating the two men. The BC Coroners Service was advised and is conducting its investigation into the deaths of both men, who were French Nationals ages 65 and 19 years old. The avalanche was categorized as a class 3 to 3.5. The fracture line of the avalanche occurred at an elevation of 2,300 meters, approximately 300 to 400 metres wide and ran for a distance of 700 to 800 meters. The Valemount RCMP continue to assist the BC Coroners Service with the investigation into the deaths. Next of kin notification has been conducted and a request from the families has been received asking that the media and public respect their privacy. The names of the deceased are not being released at this time at the request of the family. This is the third fatal avalanche in British Columbia in ten days. A total of five people have been killed in three large avalanches near Revelstoke and Valemount.
Weather WEDNESDAY High: 8°C Low: 0°C Details pg 10
Joshua Estabrooks/The Valley Sentinel
A wonderful evening of music Valemount residents were treated to a fabulous concert over the weekend, by a group of award winning songwriters. August hit the Valemount Community Theatre stage on Saturday, treating the eager audience to an evening of energetic musical entertainment. Clockwise from left to right: Percussionist Beverley Elliott, Bassist Linda Kidder, Guitarist Rae Armour and Guitarist Meg Tennant. If you missed the show you can check them out online, at www.augustmusic.net.
INSIDE: Opinion.........................pg 4 Community Calendar.....pg 6 Classifieds........... pgs 12, 13
Activities......................pg 14 Weather.......................pg 14 Real Estate........... pgs 15, 16
Coming Next Week
Carrier Lumber’s plans for the Robson Valley
flyers • Canadian Tire • Fields • Orchard Park • Alive
2 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
» COMMUNITY
An incredible journey; local dog missing for three days Joshua Estabrooks
editor@thevalleysentinel.com
M
ost dog owners have experienced the stress of losing their beloved pet. It may be for a few minutes, or a few hours, but for Dunster resident, Leon Lorenz, and his family, it lasted three days. Three years ago, Lorenz and his family welcomed Husky into their lives. Husky is a male Husky/Wolf cross from Hay River Alberta, and was purchased to guard the family home, as well as act as companion and protector to Lorenz’s wife and children when he is off in the backcountry gathering footage for his wildlife films. Lorenz said that on Monday, March 15, he and his family were walking along the base of the Rocky Mountains behind their home, when Husky ran into the woods after catching the scent of something. “He just took off up the mountain and he never returned. We thought a cougar got him.” Husky had roamed before, as most husky’s do, said Lorenz, but he had never been gone for that long, and by day three of his absence the whole family was preparing for the worst. “We didn’t know if he sacrificed his life for us, because a cougar had been hanging around lots here and it jumped a deer a few weeks ago. I couldn’t track the dog because of a lack of snow on the mountain here. It was really sickening. He is such a good dog and a wonderful companion.” Lorenz said that he and his family prayed for the dog every day, and just when he himself was starting to give up hope, we awoke to their beloved pet
sleeping on their porch. “I woke up and found my dog sleeping on the porch. I couldn’t believe it. It was like seeing a ghost.” The dog’s chain collar had been wrapped so tightly around his neck, at first Lorenz thought it was a snare, he said. “He must have got caught in some snags and got twisted so bad that he was held there for three days. I could hardly get a finger in between there but I finally got it unraveled
“We were praying about it and everything and I said there’s no point praying about it anymore because I thought he was dead. This is unbelievable.” ~ Leon Lorenz
and off his neck. I don’t know how he managed to get free. It must’ve been a desperate struggle.” Lorenz said he and his family celebrated the return of their four-legged friend all day, and all signs point to the dog making a full recovery from his ordeal. “I am so relieved. I had given up hope. We were praying about it and everything and I said there’s no point praying about it anymore because I thought he was dead. This is unbelievable.”
INITIATIVE PETITION KNOW THE RULES
If you plan to participate in the initiative campaign, it’s important that you know the rules. ■
The Recall and Initiative Act allows registered voters to propose new laws or changes to existing laws.
■
On Tuesday, April 6, 2010, petition sheets for the initiative to end the harmonized sales tax (HST) will be issued to the proponent, William Vander Zalm.
■
The proponent has 90 days to collect signatures from at least 10% of the registered voters in each of the province’s 85 electoral districts. The petition must be returned to the Chief Electoral Officer by Monday, July 5, 2010.
Photo Submitted by Leon Lorenz
■
To sign an initiative petition, a person must be a registered voter on April 6, 2010 and must only sign the petition for the electoral district in which they are currently registered.
■
An individual may only sign an initiative petition once.
■
Only registered canvassers may collect signatures.
■
Initiative advertising may only be conducted by the proponent or a registered advertising sponsor.
It was a welcome sight when the Lorenz’s woke up to the return of their missing dog, Husky. Here Husky plays with Nathan and Noel Lorenz near their house in the Dunster area.
HOUSE FOR SALE BY OWNER ASKING PRICE
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Close to town on private 3.65 acres, Big shop with carport, 3600 sq, feet house with attached double garage 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, basement set up for renters or B&B. Private entrance. Lots of updates! Call 250-566-0178
Work at Mount Robson Provincial Park
Campground Attendant / Fee Collector Elections BC is a non-partisan Office of the Legislature responsible for administering the Election Act and the Recall and Initiative Act.
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Seasonal May to Late Sept at Meadows and Rivers & Mid May to early Sept at Lucerne (East end accomodation provided while at work) Campground/Day Use area maintenance • Fee collection, Firewood Sales • Public Relations & Park Security • Landscaping duties Must Have: Exceptional People Skills & an Effective Communicator Class 5 BC Drivers Licence with a clean record(drivers abstract) Please send a covering letter, resume and 3 references to: designbynature@telus.net
Design By Nature Park Services
upfront
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 3
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
Provincial budget numbers in for School District 57
S
chool District 57 received a boost to its 2010-2011 revenues as a result of new funding announcements released by the Ministry of Education on March 15, according to Board of Education Chair Lyn Hall. “The announced funding allocations for this district are better than those anticipated in the report of the District Sustainability Committee Report,” Hall said. “Specifically, for the school year starting July 1, 2010, the district will receive $1.8 million more than we anticipated.” Hall said that the increased funding brings the anticipated operating deficit down from $7 million to $5.2 million, but is not expected to have a significant impact on the recommendations of the District Sustainability Committee. “Although the overall funding challenges are reduced in magnitude, the specific funding challenges facing the district remain. For the 2010-2011 school year, we must reduce the operating budget by a minimum of $5.2 million dollars, and this is after taking into account a $1 million dollar surplus from the previous year.” The funding increase includes a boost to the small community supplement grant, he said, which was increased from $134,400 to $157,500, as well as $800,000 for unique geographical factors. “Those unique geographical factors take into consideration that we are
in the North, a winter city, and they reflect the fact that our utilities cost more, those types of things.” When asked if the unique geographical factors apply to the rural schools specifically, Hall said “Yes and no; but it can be applied district wide. Those geographical factors are a basketful of different things that we would look at using this money for.” Overall, Hall said that the budget includes some positive aspects, but the district is still facing a large deficit as it moves forward over the next three years. “If we look at the $11 million shortfall over the next three years it has lowered it by $1.8 million, but we were only trying to take on the $7 million this year. These budget numbers are only reflective of the 2010/11 school year. Things could change next year at this time.” Dunster Fine Arts Elementary School Parent Advisory Council Chair, Chris Taylor, said that the PAC is pleased with the increase in funds, but are still disappointed with the lack of communication between their group and the district board. “The budget came down and rural schools got extra money. They also got extra money in geographical isolation and per pupil funding went up. I hope they take this as a window to have further discussions. I think that the Ministry of Education spoke it rather clear by giving extra funding in the rural school supplements, which indicates
they are trying to help with the rural school issue, but whether the district is willing to do anything about it anyone’s best guess.”
“We have no time for a new sustainability report. We will get together and we will go through the entire package; the new budget, all of the assumptions made and recommendations we have heard and we will walk through it and say where are we?”~ Lyn Hall
Hall said that the board will be meeting every day until March 30 which is when the final decisions have to be made on the 14 recommendations made by the district sustainability committee. “We have no time for a new sustainability report. We will get together and we will go through the entire package; the new budget, all of the assumptions made and recommendations we have heard and we will walk through it and say where are we? The trustees have some ideas that they want to look at as well that they have picked up from the meetings.” Since January 19, 2010, the Board has been working on recommendations provided by the DSC to eliminate a $7.0 million structural deficit for the next school year. This process anticipates three different streams to reach this goal; 1) school closures, 2) increased class sizes and school budget allocation adjustments, and 3) infrastructure right sizing. The Board of Education will make its final decisions on school closures on March 30, 2010.
Foundations Framing Finishing Work
New Homes Shops Garages
Contact Steve
250-566-9916 · Cell: 566-1223
Estimated operating grants and budget details released by the Ministry of Education recently for School District 57 for the 2010/11 school year..
SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEMS
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Advantage Insurance Services Ltd.
433 Main Street, McBride
Rosemary L. Hruby, CAIB Tel: 250.569.2264 Fax: 250.569.8838
1.888.611.5557
Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 - 6pm Sat: 10am - 3pm
Home • Farm • Auto Insurance
The Valley Sentinel will be closed Good Friday April 2nd. The ad deadlines for the April 7th paper will be: Wednesday March 31st at 5pm.
sentinel
4 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
opinion
THE VALLEY
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
Joshua Estabrooks Viewpoint
» DAVE MARCHANT
editor@thevalleysentinel.com
Be careful out there
T
he news was alive with reports of another deadly avalanche over the weekend. This time it struck the heli ski industry. I always find it interesting how avalanche incidents are covered differently, depending on which industry they affect. When a group of sledders fall victim to a slide, the coverage quickly turns to their lack of preparedness, irresponsible actions, or ways in which the incident could have been avoided. When it is a group of heli skiers, no mention of these factors come to play. Heck, the skiers have trained guides and all kinds of avalanche preparedness equipment on hand, so the avalanche is painted as more of a freak accident then something that was “caused,” so to speak. I think a lot of the difference in coverage is due to the fact that heli ski companies have trained public relations people representing them. The information stream is controlled, and filtered, whereas snowmobilers are just members of the public, so the media can have their way with them, and record their comments through whatever spin they wish to include in their story. I think both industries are just as susceptible to these disasters, as they both operate in the backcountry during unstable snow conditions. True, one employs trained experts and utilize the latest in technological safeguards, and one is made up of individuals who take their own risks with whatever amount of training and equipment they decide to have at their disposal, but snow is snow, and unstable snow is unstable snow, so anything can happen at the end of the day. What these recent avalanches have illustrated is this; the backcountry is unstable right now. The Canadian Avalanche Centre is issuing special warning bulletins right left and centre, regardless of if you are playing on sleds or skis. People need to be careful. There’s no question that these two recent events are terrible. They were extreme accidents that may or may not have been avoidable, but one thing is clear; we ALL need to be very cautious when playing in the backcountry right now. And it doesn’t look like things are going to get better anytime soon. Be safe out there, please.
» PHOTO ALBUM
Joshua Estabrooks/The Valley Sentinel
A strange arrangement of letters could be seen on the recently closed Shop Easy Foods sign in Valemount. At first glance, it seems random, but a closer look reveals a possible secret message. What do you think it means?
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Joshua Estabrooks
Deanna Mickelow
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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 5
» COMMUNITY
McBride community forest participates in video project Birgit Stutz Contributor
T
he McBride Community Forest is featured in a recently released video. The DVD, simply called “Community Forests”, contains a 12-minute introduction, plus profiles of six different community forests. The six profiles show the ways in which local economies are being diversified, how forests are being managed for all resources, not just timber, and above all, how these communities have become better places to live. “There’s a change in B.C. forests, and forest communities…,” reads the synopsis, “a change that’s good for the forests, good for the people who live and work there, and good for the buyers and users of wood. The change is the establishment of community forests, a new form of forest tenure in B.C. the forests are managed by local communities, and the benefits stay in the communities.” Marc von der Gonna, General Manager of the McBride Community Forest Corporation, said the community forests video project started back in 2007 as part of a larger branding and marketing campaign that the BC Community Forest Association was starting up. “The idea for the branding and marketing campaign came from priorities put forward by BCCFA members at our annual conferences and was then implemented by our BCCFA board of directors,” he said. “The intent of the video was to tell the story of community forests in BC, and by doing so, set them apart and the products produced by them - in the marketplace. There were two target audiences for the video: the value-added manufacturer that can show the film to their customers to promote their product and the use of community forest wood, and, as a tool to attract a value added manufacturer to a community. It also serves the purpose as an instructional video telling the community forest story to all.”
Von der Gonna said community forests are a great way to diversify the economy and create a strong community. “Not just diversifying our forest-based economy, but if we facilitate things like tourism, quality of life, that will attract people to the Valley.” The community forests featured in the DVD are the McBride Community Forest, the Likely – Xat’súll Community Forest, the Harrop-Procter Community Forest, the Burns Lake Community Forest, the Cheslatta Community Forest, and the Sunshine Coast Community Forest. Von der Gonna said the community forests highlighted in the video were chosen mainly based on the various interesting stories behind each one of them. “McBride was chosen because of its transitioning from our forest economy from commodity to value-added.” The community forests were also chosen based on their ability to participate, help fund (each community forest highlighted contributed some funding for the project), and whether or not they were operational. “We also wanted a diversity of communities, geographic representation, and mix of First Nation and non-First Nation community forests,” said von der Gonna. “The main reason Valemount wasn’t included was that we already had a pretty full suite of really good stories and that Valemount wasn’t really up and running at the time.” Von der Gonna said he would like to thank all those who participated in the film in McBride. “We had a very busy two days of filming and everyone was very accommodating,” he said. “I’d encourage anyone to view all seven films via the BCCFA website at www.bccfa.ca.” Funding for the video came from Western Economic Diversification Canada, Northern Development Initiative Trust, Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, and Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition. The video was produced by Asterisk Productions Victoria BC.
School District No. 57 (Prince George) Pre-Registration
Pre-registration is recommended for Kindergarten in School District No. 57 elementary schools. Registration will take place between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm on... Wednesday April 7, 2010 Children whose fifth birthday falls on or before December 31, 2010 are eligible to enter Kindergarten in September 2010. A birth certificate is required. Further information is available in schools on pre-registration day. Note: More information regarding full day Kindergarten will be posted on the school district website www.sd57.bc.ca when it becomes available. Central Administration Office - School District No. 57 (Prince George) 2100 Ferry Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 4R5 Phone: 250-561-6800 Fax: 250-561-6801
Joshua Estabrooks/The Valley Sentinel
Although Robins are the most accepted sign that Spring has arrived, this Varied Thrush (spotted at Joan Nordli’s bird feeder in Valemount) also indicates the change in season. The Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius or Zoothera naevia) is a member of the thrush family Turdidae. It breeds in western North America from Alaska to northern California. It is migratory, with northern breeders moving south within or somewhat beyond the breeding range. Other populations may only move altitudinally.
Winter is here!
Brookfield Renewable 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 Renewable Power wants to ensure that all of your outdoor recreational activities are positive and memorable experiences this winter. For more information: www.brookfieldpower.com 604 485-2223
6 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
Community Service Listings VALEMOUNT • PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEETING EVERY 2ND WED. 5 PM DOWNSTAIRS AT THE LIBRARY. • PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT Prenatal Classes, Baby Clinics Call 566-9138 ext 228 for appointments. • CHAMPS Weight loss Support Team for men and women. Thurs. 6:00 pm Downstairs Valemount Clinic. Shirley 566-9829, Dolly 566-8458. • COUNCIL MEETING 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 pm, council chambers. Everyone welcome. • CHAMBER OF COMMERCE General Meeting 2nd Thurs of the month @ 12pm at the Learning Centre • SADDLE & WAGON CLUB MEETING 3rd Thurs. 7 pm 566-9707 • VALEMOUNT CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY CENTRE Board Meeting 2nd Mon. 7 pm @ the Centre beneath the Community Hall (the red door). • ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION General meetings every 3rd Mon of month 7:30pm in Legion. • LIONS BINGO 1st & 3rd Mon, at Lions Hall, doors open 6pm, everyone welcome. • LADIES AUXILIARY #266 Legion Meetings 1st Tuesday of every month 3pm in Valemount Legion. • VALEMOUNT SENIORS SOCIAL CLUB. Regular meetings first Thurs of every month at 7pm downstairs lounge at Golden Years Lodge. Seniors Music Night 7PM WED • VALEMOUNT CIRCLE DANCE. For more info please contact 250 566-0095 • ADULT RECREATION BADMINTON. Thurs at 7pm in th Valemount Sec School gym. Contact Jamie @250 566-4656 • ADULT RECREATIONAL VOLLYBALL. Tues from 7pm - 9pm. Valemount Sec School gym. Contact Shelley Mainprize @ 250 566-9854
TETE JAUNE • TETE JAUNE COMMUNITY CLUB meetings held the 1st Tues. of the month at 7pm at the Tete Jaune Hall.
MCBRIDE • VALLEY PIECEMAKERS QUILT GUILD Every other Wednesday. 7:00 pm in the High School. New members welcome, contact Dawna Hickerty 5693210. • ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Every Sun, 8 pm at the Health Unit. • OAPO STITCH & KNIT Every Thurs., 2:30 - 4 pm, Beaverview Lodge, Hilda Murin 569-3305 • ALANON every Mon. 8pm at the Health Unit • TOPS Tues. 6:45 pm weigh-in, 7:15 pm meeting. Health Unit in McBride. New members welcome. Brenda Molendyk 569-3113 • VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING 2nd & 4th Tues,7:30 pm, Village Council Chambers. • DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP 1st Wed, 1 pm at Beaverview Lodge & Sat.10 am -12 pm, 441 Dominion St 569-2658 / 569-0113 • SUPPORT GROUP FOR FAMILIES DEALING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS Last Wed every month 7:30 pm @ McBride Health Centre more info call Norma 569-2637 or Elizabeth 968-4347 • DOOR STORIES SERIES 2008-2009 Art Exhibition by Pamela Cinnamon. Nov 12 2009 - Jan 15 2010 at the Museum/Library Building 241 Dominion St. McBride
THE MARCH 24 • Valemount Seniors Music Night 7-9pm McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM • Toastmasters 7:30-9:30pm Best Western
WEDNESDAY MARCH 25 • Valemount Rec Badminton VSS 7PM • Valemount Seniors Drop-in Carpet Bowling & Cards 1-4pm • Mother Goose 1-3 PM Lions Hall 1100 Main St, Valemount
THURSDAY
APRIL 2 • Valemount Seniors Dance Night 7-9pm
MARCH 26 • Valemount Seniors Dance Night 7-9pm •Yoga for Backs 6:30 PM at the Community Hall, Valemount • “Everett Monroe” exhibition @Museum/Library Building in McBride until April 6th
FRIDAY
APRIL 3/4 • The Secret Garden 1-2:30 PM Valemount Public Library, 1090 Main St. • Curling at the Valemount Arena 7PM
MARCH 27/28 • The Secret Garden 1-2:30 PM Valemount Public Library, 1090 Main St. • Curling at the Valemount Arena 7PM
APRIL 16 • Valemount Seniors Dance Night 7-9pm
SATURDAY/SUNDAY
TUESDAY APRIL 1 • Valemount Rec Badminton VSS 7PM • Valemount Seniors Drop-in Carpet Bowling & Cards 1-4pm • Mother Goose 1-3 PM Lions Hall 1100 Main St, Valemount
ROBSON VALLEY MONDAY MARCH 30 • Valemount Rec Volleyball VSS 7PM • McBride TOPS 6:45pm at the Health Unit
MARCH 31 • Valemount Seniors Music Night 7-9pm McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM
Coming Events MARCH 29 •Valemount Seniors Carpet Bowling 9am McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM • “Everett Monroe” exhibition @Museum/Library Building in McBride ongoing until April 6th
APRIL 8 • Valemount Rec Badminton VSS 7PM • Valemount Seniors Drop-in Carpet Bowling & Cards 1-4pm • Mother Goose 1-3 PM Lions Hall 1100 Main St, Valemount
APRIL 5 •Valemount Seniors Carpet Bowling 9am McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM • “Everett Monroe” exhibition @Museum/Library Building in McBride until April 6th
APRIL 12 •Valemount Seniors Carpet Bowling 9am
Exercises for Women 4-5PM
McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact
• The Secret Garden 1-2:30 PM Valemount Public Library, 1090 Main St.
APRIL 17/18
• The Secret Garden 1-2:30 PM Valemount Public Library, 1090 Main St. • Curling at the Valemount Arena 7PM
APRIL 10/11
APRIL 6 • Valemount Rec Volleyball VSS 7PM • McBride TOPS 6:45pm at the Health Unit
APRIL 7 • Valemount Seniors Music Night 7-9pm McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM
APRIL 15 • Valemount Rec Badminton VSS 7PM • Valemount Seniors Drop-in Carpet Bowling & Cards 1-4pm • Mother Goose 1-3 PM Lions Hall 1100 Main St, Valemount
APRIL 9 • Valemount Seniors Dance Night 7-9pm
APRIL 13 • Valemount Rec Volleyball VSS 7PM • McBride TOPS 6:45pm at the Health Unit
APRIL 14 • Valemount Seniors Music Night 7-9pm McBride E-Free Church -Drop-in Walking 7-8 AM , Low Impact Exercises for Women 4-5PM • Toastmasters 7:30-9:30pm Best Western
Do you have a coming event?
Would you like to feature it in the Sentinel? Call: 250.566.4425
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 7
» COMMUNITY
Double bill aims to please local listeners in Valemount Birgit Stutz Contributor
J
oin Dunster’s own Mama and the Guru as they play some rockin’ wonderful folk music this coming Friday at the Valemount United Anglican Church. Mama and the Guru are well known to Robson Valley residents as Seth Macdonald and Shara Gustafson from Mamaguroove. The duo will be performing together with Jesse Dee and Jacquie B, one of Canada’s hardest working acts. An amalgamation of many genres, including Jazz, Canadiana, Rock, Hip Hop, and Pop; the formerly Edmonton-based (now living in Wells, B.C.) duo are creating a sound that is distinctly vintage yet unmistakably contemporary. With tints of Tom Waits, Luke Doucet, Danny Michel, and Ani Difranco, their music is laden with sincere story-telling, tender laments, clever hooks, and colourful harmonies. Their live shows are consistent to the fact that they are ever changing and are a true testament to creativity. While Dee’s guitar playing leads the audience through an intimate look at his delicate folk tendencies, jazz wit and dirty blues incantations; Jacquie B’s vocals are a blind-fold over the eyes of regularity. Her unconventional harmonies seamlessly blend with Dee’s unique vocal style and delivery. She can also be seen brandishing accordions and kazoos to fight off the evil
that is mediocrity. The personal stories they share in their songs give you permission to call them a friend by the end of the performance. This combination on stage, whether with a full band or as the fab duo, is a reminder that there still are unique artists cooking up their own special blend of entertainment. In 2008 Jesse Dee and Jacquie B played a total of 52 shows. By the end of 2009, they surpassed their goal of doubling their performance number with a grand total of 115 shows, including three major tours, Fresh Outtha Box, From Our House To Yours, and Highway Robbery, which brought them across the entire continent from Edmonton, Alberta, to St. John’s, Newfoundland. In between these tours, they rocked the flip-flops off festival-goers and co-ordinators all over Alberta and British Columbia. Since the release of their debut offering, “A Cross Pollination of Service Station Scrawl” in March 2008, the duo have been tirelessly playing and writing. They released their latest EP entitled “Greenhouse” in August, 2009 and are working on their next full-length album to be released in 2010. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. on March 26. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 at the door. For more information, visit www. jessedeemusic.com and www.myspace. com/mamaguroove.
Above: Jesse Dee and Jacquie B bring their own brand of musical entertainment to Valemount, along with local favourites (Left) Mama and the Guru (Seth Macdonald and Shara Gustafson)
Road Talks As the winter season fades from our memories and the scenery around us changes, we begin to see different activities taking place on the highway as we travel. With spring comes sweeping and cleaning of the road surfaces, construction zones and a variety of activities where there is an interruption in the flow of traffic or a need for reduced speed. As men and women, friends and neighbours, work to keep the road an efficient and a safe means of travel, please be aware of them and obey the speed and construction zone signs. Your safe driving and patience is appreciated by all.
Help us make the highways a safe place for everyone. DRIVE SAFELY, SLOW DOWN & ARRIVE ALIVE
Are you having trouble managing your debt? The Farm Debt Mediation Service is a free confidential service that gives farmers access to financial experts who can help you, provide practical advice and prepare a recovery plan. Qualified mediators will help farmers and creditors work together to find mutually acceptable financial repayment arrangements. The Farm Debt Mediation Service will help farmers get their debt repayment back on track, including those who received a cash advance through the Advance Payment Program. To obtain more information Call: 1-866-452-5556
13410 Blackman Road, Tete Jaune, BC T. (250) 566-4474 F. (250) 566-4350
Visit: www.agr.gc.ca/fdms
8 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
» COMMUNITY
Joshua Estabrooks/The Valley Sentinel
Valemount resident, Sydnie Pelletier, has been growing her hair for 2-3 years, and decided last year to donate it to “Locks of Love”, an organization that provides hairpieces to children who have suffered long term medical hair loss. She recently had it cut, and the donation is now on its way. Her gesture has inspired her mother, Sharonrose Shalla, to follow suit. Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 21 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. The organization meets a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. The prostheses they provide help to restore their self-esteem and their confidence, enabling them to face the world and their peers.
ATTENTION TOURISM OPERATORS Do you have any fantastic photos of your business in action?
Help us showcase all that the Robson Valley has to offer! We are currently accepting submissions of photos for our upcoming Valemount Visitor's Guide, and would love to show our readers what your business has to offer. All photos will be credited with your business name. Please contact Joshua at 250-566-4425 editor@thevalleysentinel.com to discuss your photos.
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 9
» COMMUNITY
McBride’s Economic Development Action Plan 2010-2015 Birgit Stutz Contributor
PRIORITY ASSIGNED
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
RATINGS
1
Waste Water Treatment Facility - Phase I, Phase II, Phase III, also known as the “Eco-Sensitive Solution to Waste Water Treatment”
86
2
70
2
Bioenergy-Based Integrated Business Park Promotion Initiative. Branding Initiative - Planning Stage
3
Street Paving & Sidewalk Repairs
66
4 4 4
58 58 58
4
Village Loop - Urban Trail Engineering Village Loop - Urban Trail Development Main Street Redevelopment Planning Bioenergy-Based Greenhouse Feasibility Study
5
Chevron Site Improvements
55
70
58
6 6
Train Station Renovation Cost Update Train Station Renovation
48 48
7
Branding Initiative - Economic Development
46
8
Community Swimming Pool
33
9
Main Street Redevelopment
31
10
Small Business Incubator Development
27
11
Community Ski Hill
23
12
Indoor Bowling Alley (as proposed in the survey comments)
17
Colour red indicates projects currently underway.
M
cBride’s Economic Development Officer recently presented the Economic Development Action (EDA) Plan for 2010-2015 to Village Council. The plan was approved at a special meeting March 16 and the official copy was presented at the Council meeting on March 23. “The EDA Plan is based on goals identified by communication with local residents via survey,” said EDO Margaret Graine, adding her recommendations were guided by the comments on the survey, available finances, market opportunities and the Village’s capacity. “We developed a number of aggressive, yet realistic goals, objectives and strategies that could be put in place,” said Graine. “We have identified those projects that best meet local development goals and can be supported by local resources such as workforce capability and resource, as well as regional, provincial and federal financial incentives and inducements.” There are a number of initiatives that the EDO is presently working on, as well as a number of projects that have been brought forward by the public. “As progress is being made, new projects will be brought forward to the Council,” said Graine. “In our EDA Plan we have evaluated possible opportunities in agriculture, tourism, forestry, emerging industries and retail and service.” To help prioritize new and existing projects according to the Village’s goals and objectives, the EDO developed a pointscoring system based on criterias such as job creation, timeline, cost (funds available), benefit (who benefits?), economic impact, availability of infrastructure, and subsidies requirement. “The suggested scoring system should be used as a guideline only,” said Graine. “Each project should be analyzed and a decision based on the changes in the future community goals and the need for economic expansion. The projects will be re-evaluated on an annual basis and reprioritized based on the arising new funding opportunities or other material changes. There may be projects that improve people’s well being, in-
crease economic viability or enhance quality of life and work, but there may be no market for such products. Our resources are very limited and we must find a tactical way to stimulate economic development in McBride. This will require compromises and trade-offs.” Goals and objectives that have been identified in the EDA Plan are to build infrastructure, build a ‘critical mass’
“...we have evaluated possible opportunities in agriculture, tourism, forestry, emerging industries and retail and service.”~ Margaret Graine
(increase population, branding), attract tourism, attract ‘clean tech’ emerging industries, support agriculture, support local small businesses, create partnerships, improve communication channels, as well as collaborate with the regional district, surrounding communities and the community groups. Graine said the number one priority in the plan continues to be bringing a biomass-based energy generation facility to McBride. “This will form a base for the future industrial park. McBride has no available land within the town limits for a business park development and a limited amount is available for the residential construction projects. This substantially limits our ability to attract new business. The research also indicates that there is a shortage of available
land along the district’s transportation corridor. In order to benefit from the potential economic expansion in the region, McBride should identify options for land rezoning and acquisition. Creation of economic stability can only be accomplished if the community has land, infrastructure, finances, technical support and labour.” Graine said although public input is very important to the economic development activities, community leaders should strive to understand the need to concentrate their efforts on what is feasible rather than determining what ought to be, design policies and programs to help achieve those economic development goals and create a positive business climate. “Having a common agenda and mutually accepted goals which are accepted and understood by the public is paramount to the success of the economic development efforts. The first step toward engaging in the implementation of the actual projects is obtaining support and cooperation of the public and private sector. Communities cannot work alone. We need to align the aspirations that suit our area with the needs of the region in order to build capacity and leverage scarce resources. Collaboration will enhance the credibility of the proposed projects and assure future success.” The full EDA plan is available at www.mcbride.ca/edo. A copy of the plan can also be borrowed from the local library or the Village Office. The plan will also be available at the public forums, which take place on the first Thursday of each month at the Sun Valley Restaurant between 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Lakes District Maintenance Ltd. Contract for Janitorial Services 2010-2011 Contract Area #20 –Robson : Janitorial Date: 2010-2011 Location: McBride Yard Contract Packages Available at: Lakes District Maintenance Ltd. 13410 Blackman Rd, PO Box 108 Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Inquiries: John Traquair or Rod Saul (250) 566-4474 or Fax (250) 566-4350
10 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
» COMMUNITY
Valemount council Joshua Estabrooks editor@thevalleysentinel.com
T
he regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of Valemount was held on March 9. Mayor Bob Smith, Councillors Rita Tchir, Murray Capstick, Cynthia Piper, Administrator Tom Dall, and Deputy Director of Corporate Services Sandy Salt attended. Councillor Bobbi Roe was absent. Simpcw First Nation Council received a letter from the Simpcw First Nation regarding the Tete Jaune Cache Community forest. Council received the letter for information purposes, and carried a motion to send a letter to James Foster of the Simpcw First Nation requesting him to attend a future council meeting to provide a presentation regarding their proposed community forest. Video Conferencing Council received a report from CAO Dall regarding video conferencing equipment, and carried a motion approving the installation of video conferencing equipment in the council chambers. Council carried a further motion to
forward a request to the Columbia Basin trust to purchase the equipment and cover installation costs. Seniors housing Council received a report from CAO Dall regarding the senior housing project, and approved a lease agreement with BC Housing and the Village of Valemount for a 60 year term at a rate of $10.00 per annum following the proper procedures outlined in the community charter section 24 and 26. Building officials conference Council carried a motion to approve the travel and registration expenses for the building inspector to attend the Building Officials Association of BC Conference and AGM in Nanaimo from April 26-30. Photocopier Council carried a motion to allow the CAO to sign a new lease with Konica Minolta Business Solutions for a Bizhub C280 and for a Bizhub 222 photocopier for a fee of $517.90 per month for 66 months and the appropriate price for copy of $.012 black and white and $.08 for colour.
McBride golden in energetic olympics Birgit Stutz Contributor
T
he Energetic Olympics are officially over and the top six communities are from the north. “McBride was able to rally its residents and overtake the Village of Queen Charlotte to claim first place in its division,” said Kim Struthers, energy programmer for the Smithers-based One Sky - The Canadian Institute for Sustainable Living. McBride achieved 13,300 points, winning gold in the Lightweight Division (communities with less than 5,000 residents). Silver went to the Village of Queen Charlotte with 10,210 points and bronze went to the Village of Burns Lake with 6,780 points. One Sky announced the winners of its Energetic Olympics competition at the Union of B.C. Municipalities tradeshow in Vancouver. Over the past two years, sixteen B.C. municipalities and their residents had been engaged in the friendly competition and scored points by reducing their energy consumption and using more sustainable forms of energy in five “events”: transportation, heating, electricity, food and consumption, and goods and services. “McBride topped the scores in all five events,” said Struthers. In the electricity event, Mc-
One of Canada’s fastest growing industries will need: drillers, blasters, technicians, mechanics, cooks, plumbers, welders, electricians, engineers, drivers, machinists, accounts clerks, geologists, land surveyors, safety officers, accountants, computer programmers, security, food suppliers, warehouse supervisors, carpenters, geochemists...
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VLC
Valemount Learning Centre │ 99 Gorse St │ Ph: 250-566-4601
Bride scored 3,070 points. Residents committed to activities like washing clothes in cold water instead of hot and warm, buying Energy Star appliances, and using fans instead of air-conditioners. In the consumption and food event, the Village scored 3,165 points by pledging to not use pesticides and by buying local food at the farmers’ market. In the goods and services event, McBride scored 3,010 points. Residents chose to buy environmentally-friendly cleaning products, to use re-useable containers instead of throw-away containers or cling-wrap, and to re-use, recycle or compost to keep as much waste out of the landfill as possible. In the heating event, the Village achieved a score of 1,830 points. Residents are caulking/weatherstripping their windows and buying energy efficient water heaters. The score in the transportation event was 2,225 points. Residents are keeping their tires inflated to the proper pressure, reducing or eliminating their vehicle idling, and trying to walk or cycle instead of driving. “We congratulate our winners and the other participants for their great results in the competition,” said Struthers. “Individually and collectively they have made meaningful progress towards reducing their energy consumption and using more sustainable forms of energy. These
municipalities’ ability to engage their local residents was key to their success. One Sky hopes to continue this spirit of connection by awarding each community with a donation to support their respective 2010 Earth Day celebration. McBride has won a $500 prize.” According to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, municipal government decisions can influence more than 50% of the country’s GHG emissions. One Sky, through this Canadian International Development Agency-funded public engagement program, launched Energetic Olympics to encourage municipalities to improve their energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “In the spirit of the Olympics, we have taken an international approach and promoted the concept of ‘energy equity’ during the competition,” said Mike Simpson, One Sky’s executive director. “Simply put, energy is a global resource and some of us need to use a lot less of it while the majority of the world needs access to more sustainable forms of energy.” One Sky is a Smithers-based not-for profit organization whose mission is to promote sustainable living globally. One Sky runs a number of programs promoting energy conservation, sustainable energy use, and individual and organizational capacity building.
McBride council briefs Birgit Stutz Contributor
T
he regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of McBride was held March 9 with Mayor Mike Frazier, Councillors Irene Rejman, Mike Moseley, Rick Thompson and Loranne Martin, Chief Administrative Officer Eliana Clements, Deputy Administrator/Treasurer Danielle Smith, and Economic Development Officer Margaret Graine in attendance. Usage of sign kiosks Council carried a motion that the Economic Development Office prepare and bring back to Council a policy regarding usage of the three covered sign kiosks for the Village of McBride Eco-Sensitive Wastewater Treatment Project – Phase 3 park development. TD Green Streets Program grant application Council carried a motion that the TD Green Streets Program grant application be referred to the next Council meeting. Application will be pending information provided to Council from the Eco-
nomic Development Officer. Seniors access to Village Administration building A motion was made and carried that Council approve and support the Village of McBride’s application for “Seniors access to the Village of McBride Administration Building” to UBCM for the 2010 Age Friendly Community Planning and Project Grants. Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw A motion was made that the “Village of McBride Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 697, 2010” be given second reading. The motion was defeated. Zoning Amendment Bylaw A motion was made that the “Village of McBride Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 698, 2010” be given second reading. The motion was defeated. 2010 Energy & Climate Action Plan A motion was carried that the “Village of McBride 2010 Energy & Climate Action Plan” be approved.
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 11
BUSINESS DIRECTORY Systems
Valley
Joel Steinberg P.O. Box 124, Clearwater, B.C. V0E 1N0 250-674-0017
Licensed Property Manager * Handyman Services * Design Consulting
Jen Applebaum 250.566.4005 Office 250.566.1323 Cell Valemount
CHURCH LISTINGS VALEMOUNT
GOOD SHEPHERD ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 3rd Ave & Elm St. 250 566-4563 Sunday 8:30am Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat-9am, Wed & Fri 7pm
Auto/House/Commercial Glass-Insurance Claims Screen-Mirrors-Sattelite TV and Radio Sales & Service Custom Vinyl Signs-Banners-Graphics Pet Feed and Supplies-Home-Electronics
Call 250.566.4380
joel_valleygeo@telus.net
rusticluxury@telus.net
Country Wide Sales & Services Ltd. 1160-5th Avenue, Valemount BC
www.rusticluxury.com
Mac’s Small Engine Service & Repair
Hill Bill Products Ltd. Henry Unger
250.566.9744 250.566.4070
Closed Dec 8-Jan 8
• Lawn & gaRdEn • aTV’S • powER SawS • SnowMobILES
Cabins & Sheds starting at only $900 each!
Call Mac Cochrane
250-968-4498 “Your Local Mortgage Consultant”
Sands Bulk Sales LTD Husky Oil Limited ** MORTGAGES **
* Pre-approvals * Purchases * Refinances * Consolidations * Rental Property *Self Employed Mortgages * New to Canada * Vacation Home
Debra Parker AMP Mortgage Consultant
Phone: 1-866-426-8211 Cell: 250-421-7600 Email: debra_parker@centum.ca
Looking out for your best Interest.
845 Cedarside Rd. Valemount BC Phone: 250-566-4818 or 1-866-566-4818 Fax: 250-566-4815 Cardlock and bulk plant facility Fuel truck for all your delivery needs
RHex’so Recycling ours of
peration
sunday - Monday Closed tuesday - Wednesday 1-5pM tHursday - friday - saturday 10aM - 5pM
Now o refu ffering n f bot d on a ull ll b *Pic tles eer a k up s ca nd c n be a arra ns ng ed
Call liz or KiM everard at 250.566.9111
reduCe • reuse • reCyCle
Canwest Propane Ltd.
Sales Service 250-566-1324 Installation 1-800-424-6331
250 968-4349 or 250 566-4568 Sunday-11am, Sun. School 11am
VALEMOUNT COMMUNITY CHURCH
Sundays 9:00 am 1275 5th Ave 250 566-4772.
VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
250 566-9990 Praise & Worship 11am Evening service 6:30pm last Sun. of the month
DUNSTER
ROCKO’S CHURCH
Sun. 11:00 am Home group meeting at Rod & Deb Reimer’s - Brown Road, Dunster. 250 968-4335.
MCBRIDE
ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 197 Dominion, 250 569-2606 Sun. Communion Service 11am
441 Dominion St., 250 569.3206 or 250 569.3386. Worship/Kids church 09:00am
SEVENTH - DAY ADVENTIST
Call 250.566.4380
Country Wide Sales & Services Ltd. 1160-5th Avenue, Valemount BC Vanderhoof & Districts Co-Operative Association
Driver sales representative John McGuire Phone: (250) 566-8483 Cell: (780) 999-3041 sfowler@valemount.com
www.wclh.com/valemount
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES
ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH
Delivering Fuel East to McBride
1170 Canoeview Place Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0
NEW LIFE CENTRE
1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824 Sunday School 10am. Family Worship 10:30am. Prayer meeting Thurs 7pm
Church 569.2378 or 569.8845 1st Ave Sun 11am Sunday School 9:45am. Auto/House/Commercial Glass-Insurance Claims Screen-Mirrors-Sattelite TV and Radio Sales & Service Custom Vinyl Signs-Banners-Graphics Pet Feed and Supplies-Home-Electronics
Authorized Dealer
Rev. Dee McEachern 250 566-0034 7th & Cedar, Sunday Worship 11:30am
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH
YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER
Shawn Fowler
ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH
› GIS ServIceS › TImber cruISInG 250.277.1867 or 250.566.1216 › GPS & maPPInG greenstarfsi@gmail.com › ForeST DeveloPmenT › ToTal chance PlannInG 1012 3rd Avenue › vISual ImPacT aSSeSSmenT PO Box 967, Valemount BC › mPb aSSeSSmenT & conTrol V0E 2Z0
For Commercial and Farm personal Contact Where High level of Customer service is JOB #1
Greg Belshaw
990 Railway Road Prince George BC 1-866-309-2667 (250) 963-9011
Vanderhoof Office c. (250) 565-8438 f. (250) 567-4490 p. (250) 567-4488
Advertise your business with
(250) 566-4425 or 1-800-226-2129
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 11:10am, Prayer Service Wed. 7 pm
MENNONITE CHURCH
Sun. Sch. 10am Sunday Services 11am, 7:30pm Wed 7:45pm
12 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel THE VALLEY 250.566.4425 | Toll-free: 1.800.226.2129 | E-mail: classifieds@thevalleysentinel.com | Web: classifieds.thevalleysentinel.com+GST Main: Up to 20 words: $6 • Up to 25 words: $7 • Up to 30 words: $8
sentinel
Classifieds
Guaranteed to Sell $19.95+GST
GTS for 20 words and $1 plus GST 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 at no additional charge. Some conditions apply call for details.
Main: 250.566.4425 | Toll-free: 1.800.226.2129 | E-mail: classifieds@thevalleysentinel.com | Web: classifieds.thevalleysentinel.com AUTOMOBILES $1500. 1991 Suzuki Sidekick 4dr, 4wd. Great little SUV, excellent on fuel! Winter & All- Season tires included. 1 owner for 17 years! Call Jen 250 566-1323 MAR 24 TFN
1995 Chevy van, needs transmission. Cost $20. Call 250 566-9811 MAR 24 GTS
1986 Honda Prelude 270,000 km, standard, needs cosmetic work, 1988 motor, $850. Call 250 566-4159 JAN 13 GTS
1988 F250 Lariat Regular cab Diesel, 4x4 long box, $3000 obo or trade for sled 800 Rev. Phone 250 968-4321 jAN 20 GTS
1993 Chevy S10 Blazer 4x4, 4 door, 3” lift. Good condition $2700 obo. Contact John @ 250 5668220 GTSSEPT30
LOCAL RENTALS
RENTALS Log Duplex in Valemount. 5 bdrm, 2 full bathrooms, partially furnished. Damage deposit required. For info call 780 2641651
Reduced! $329,500, 4 bdrm house in centre of Valemount. Large lot, garage, large cabin, wood shed. Close to park and downtown. Phone APR 7 Joy-anne at 250 5422 Bdrm apt. across from 5922 or Penni at 250 the hospital in McBride. 566-9192 MAR 24 Fridge, stove included. $525 per mth. Call 250 2 bdrm house with basement in Valemount 569-0208 $149,000. newly MAR 17 TFN renovated up & down. CN Apts - 1 & 2 bdrms Very good condition. $520 & $590/mth + New furnace & bathroom. Call Joy-anne at 250 542hydro. Juniper Manor - 2 bdrms, all new cupboards 5922 or Penni at 250 566-9192 & fixtures, fresh paint, MAR 24 new ceramic tile & wook laminate flooring, LOT FOR SALE good storage & laundry hookups. $590/mth + Empty residential lot hydro, 1 Bachelor $400/ for sale. Located on month + hydro. Call Scott 14th Ave in Valemount. 250 566-1569 sewer and MAR 31 65’x130’, water at property, near high school. $45,000 WANTED obo. Call Kelly @780 984-7061 or email kelly@ Looking to buy Standard wsionline.ca size frames with drawn MAY 12 foundation. Call Chris at 250 566-9089 MAR 31 FIREWOOD
LOCAL RENTALS
RENTAL LISTINGS VALEMOUNT REAL ESTATE #024
#015-1
#006-1
#002-2
#014-1
#025
HOUSE FOR SALE
Mtnview Apts. - RENT ROLLBACK! Renovated units avail. From Jan 2010 - 6 mths of reduced rates on 1 & 2 Bdrm units. $435 - $535 Bach. Suite $375 1 Bdrm suite in Triplex building. Partially furnished, no smoking, no pets. Available March 1st. $475 3 Bdrm Duplex unit. Wood/electric heat, Laundry, Pet ok. Renovations underway. Available March 1st. $750 3 Bdrm+office, 2 bath, fenced corner lot home. Oil/wood heat. Available March 1st. $900 Large renovated & furnished 4 bdrm, 2 bath family home. No pets. Propane/wood heat. $1200 2 bdrm trailer w/full addition and wired garage. Propane heat. Available April 1st. $625
Photos and details at
www.rusticluxury.com Call Jen 250-566-1323
ACREAGE FOR SALE 12.6 acres above Valemount on Hillside Drive. Power and phone on property, 2 legal access points - 1 off Hillside Drive and one off Swift Creek FSR. Gorgeous view of valley and Premiers. $175,000. Call 780 405-8620 for more info. MAR 31
MISC. FOR SALE Wood stove for sale. Takes 18in wood. $200 obo. Call 250 566-8447 APR 3
Dalbello Ski boots, Size 8 $125, Salomon Scrambler 8 shaped skiis and bindings $325 or $400 for both. 5 ice screws and biners, never used. $75 obo. Call 250 566-4024 DEC 20 GTS
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
The Valemount Museum is seeking a mo�vated individual to work as Assistant Manager. Du�es include summer Museum supervision, planning summer events and summer staffing. Applicant must have good computer skills, be organized and community-minded to work with other groups in the community. Posi�on runs full-�me May through September. Off season hours nego�able. Posi�on starts in mid April. Contract Wage $15 per hour. For a full job descrip�on, please check with the Valemount Learning Centre. Submit your resume by emailing vmuseum@telus.net (Subject: Applica�on for Assistant Manager) or by mail to Valemount Museum, Box 850, Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 or by Fax 250-566-4244.
WANTED TO RENT
Young couple looking for a long term rental home in the Tete Jaune Birch firewood. $800 per Area. Preferably 2 bdrm, logging truck load. 15 garage is a bonus. mins from McBride. U-haul Contact Will or Mel at Call 250 569-2471 250 569-2351 or 780 FEB 3 TFN 852-8427
Deadline for submission: March 31, 2010.
APPLICATION
APPLICATION
APPLICATION
MAR 31
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
VALEMOUNT VISITOR CENTRE • VISITOR INFORMATION COUNSELLORS• • NATURAL HISTORY INTERPRETERS• We are looking for part-time and full-time summer staff with great people skills, a good knowledge of travel in British Columbia and strong computer skills. Experience in tourism and sales are assets. Interpreters must also have good presentation skills and a knowledge of the local and natural history of the Valemount area. Training will be provided including Tourism Visitor Information Counselling Techniques and Natural History Interpretation.
Wages start at $12.00 to $13.00 per hour plus bonuses and incentives. Please send your resume to: Adventure Management Ltd. Box 146, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Fax: 250-566-4317 e-mail: dyson.wendy@gmail.com
Summer Wage Subsidies Access Columbia Basin Trust’s Summer Works Program to boost your business and provide a job for a student this summer. • $7/hour wage subsidy; • Quick turnaround on applications; • Employment of students age 15 and up.
Application forms will be available at www.cbt.org/summerworks March 22, 2010. Grants will be approved based on minimum requirements, on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information visit the website or call 1.877.489.2687 ext 3644.
CALL NOW TO ADVERTISE IN
THE VALLEY SENTINEL WE WILL BUILD YOUR AD AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!! CALL 250 566-4425 OR EMAIL
ads@thevalleysentinel.com
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 13 Main: 250.566.4425 | Toll-free: 1.800.226.2129 | E-mail: classifieds@thevalleysentinel.com | Web: classifieds.thevalleysentinel.com EMPLOYMENT
RENTALS
FINANCIAL SERVICES
AUTOMOBILES
AUTOMOBILES
AUTOMOBILES
AUTOMOBILES
1182 Week of 03.22.2010
LOCAL JOB POSTINGS Updated Mar 24, 2010
Assistant Manager Campground
Attendant/ Fee Collector
Chambermaids (3) Cook / Chef Front Desk (3) Housekeeping
Attendant (part-time) Motel Managers (Couple) Night Auditor (Relief) Servers Specialty Cook ( International Cuisine) Front desk staff can give you detailed information about each of these postings, including info on how to submit your application for these job opportunities. For more information about these jobs, please call:
Auto FinAncing
educAtion
$0 DOWN at auto credit fast. Need a vehicle? Good or Bad credit call Stephanie1-877-792-0599. www.autocreditfast.ca. DLN 30309.
Train to be a MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTIONIST. Learn & Work from HOME! MTI Community College www.mticc.com, 604-3102684. LOVE YOUR JOB!
Automotive
employment opportunities
NEED A VEHICLE? Need cash? Up to $10,000. cash back! Guaranteed approvals! Over 400 vehicles to choose from. Call Will or Ashley today! 1-888-289-8935.
Valemount Learning Centre 250-566-4601
Business opportunities FUN, PROFIT, SUCCESS. Great Canadian Dollar Store, a dollar store leader since 1993 has new franchise opportunities coast to coast. Call today 1-877-388-0123 ext 229; www.dollarstores.com.
PO Box 789, 99 Gorse St. Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0
cAreer trAining MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION IS R ATED #2 FOR AT-HOME JOBS Learn from home. Work from home! Start your online training today. Contact CanScribe at: 1- 8 0 0 - 4 6 6 -15 3 5 , w w w.canscribe.com, info@canscribe.com.
NAHANNI CONSTRUCTION, Yellowknife, NT. Nahanni Construction is currently looking for Journeyman Certified: Electricians, Welders, Plumbers and Scaffolders. Please apply by sending your resume to: Jody@NahanniNCL.com. CHEAP TELEPHONE RECONNECT! Paying too much? Switch, save money, and keep your number! First month only $24.95 + connection fee. Phone Factory Reconnect 1-877-336-2274 ; www.phonefactory.ca. AUTOBODY. 1st or 2nd year apprentice & journeyman autobody tech/painter required for busy domestic collision center. Excellent wages, full company benefits, moving allowance available. Please email: denhamcc@telus.net or fax resume to 780-3525698. Denham Ford Sales, Wetaskiwin, Alberta.
employment opportunities
SOUTH ROCK LTD. is seeking Experienced asphalt paving personnel for the 2010 construction season in Alberta. Accommodations supplied. Apply online at www.southrock.ca or fax 403-568-1327. FinAnciAl services
DEBT CONSOLIDATION PROGRAM. Helping Canadians repay debts, reduce or eliminate interest, regardless of your credit. Steady Income? You may qualify for instant help. Considering Bankruptcy? Call 1-877-220-3328 FREE Consultation Government Approved, BBB Member. If you own a home or real estate, ALPINE CREDITS will lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is NOT an issue. 1.800.587.2161.
$500$ LOAN SERVICE, by phone, no credit refused, quick and easy, payable over 6 or 12 installments. Toll Free: 1-877-776-1660 www.moneyprovider.com.
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NEW Norwood SAWMILLS - LumberMate-Pro handles logs 34” diameter, mills boards 28” wide. Automated quick-cycle-sawing increases efficiency up to 40%. www.NorwoodSawmills. com/400OT- FREE Information: 1-800 -566 - 6899 Ext:400OT. CRIMINAL RECORD? Only PARDON SERVICES CANADA has 20 years experience GUARANTEEING RECORD REMOVAL. Call 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1- 8 6 6 - 9 7 2 -7 3 6 6). www.RemoveYourRecord.com. HeAltH
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14 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel
Activities to Entertain & Amuse Pioneer Photo
CROSSWORD AND SUDOKU
About this photo Description: A horse pulling a cart down a McBride street.
Date: 1910s Credits: Valley Museum & Archives ID: 2003.26.201 Image: 16 of 48 If you have any more information on this photo or any others that appear you can contact The Valley Museum & Archives in McBride, The Valemount Museum or contact us at The Valley Sentinel.
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, start thinking about what you want to achieve in the next few weeks. Form a schedule and a plan of attack. Promise that you’ll stick to the plan. TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, living in truth is crucial this week. If you were thinking about deceiving someone or telling a fib to get by, think again. There’s more to a relationship than first appears.
Horoscopes
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, be careful with your words this week to avoid saying the wrong thing. You might simply be trying too hard, so stop and think before saying something you might regret. CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you have the ability to conjure up a fantasy of how things should develop in your mind. The trouble is, fantasy is not reality. You may be heading for a letdown.
WEDNESDAY
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, sarcasm won’t hide cynicism and you have to watch your tongue this week. You may inadvertently hurt someone and the consequences will run deep. VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, take the time to ask your friends and coworkers what they think before assuming that you know all the answers. Incorporate the results into your weekly plans. LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 There will be hard work ahead of you, Libra, but you are not ready to dive in just yet. Resolve a nagging situation before taking on any new projects.
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, your optimism returns this week, but you are still cautious because you don’t want to set yourself up for disappointment. Sound logic is the way to proceed.
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SAGITTARIUS-Nov 23/Dec 2 Sagittarius, the power of positive thinking can take you far. But don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. You still need to work hard to achieve what you desire. CAPRICORN- Dec 22/Jan 20 Staying connected to the larger picture should make navigating the next few days that much easier. Live in the moment instead of a fantasy that you’ve set for yourself. AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, it will prove tempting to get pulled into your dreams this week, but your resistance is strong enough to keep you on the ground. There will be time for daydreaming. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, don’t be afraid to set your goals high. You need to be challenged in order to do your best work. Harmony arrives this week.
SATURDAY
Daytime Variable Condition cloudiness
Daytime Rain and snow Condition
Daytime Scattered Condition flurries
Daytime Condition
20% P.O.P. 8°C High 0°C Low Wind SE 5 km/h 24/Hr Snow
P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Snow
P.O.P. High Low Wind 24/Hr Snow
30% P.O.P. 4°C High -4°C Low Wind SW 5 km/h 24/Hr Snow
40% 7°C -1°C S 5 km/h 2-4 cm
70% 3°C -2°C S 5 km/h 1-2 cm
LAST WEEKS ANSWERS
Mainly cloudy
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Daytime Rain and Snow Condition
Daytime Rain and snow Condition
90% P.O.P. 0°C High -2°C Low Wind S 20 km/h 2-4 cm 24/Hr Snow
90% P.O.P. 1°C High -3°C Low Wind SE 10 km/h 24/Hr Snow 5-10 cm
The Valley Sentinel Wednesday March 24, 2010 • 15
250-569-7397
Irene Berndsen’s Featured Listings from the Robson Valley 11120 e Hwy 16 VA V lemount, BC
Call Today!
Irene
Berndsen Sales Representative in McBride
Prince George This Weeks Featured listings are all from the Robson Valley
325,000
$
• 4 acres, 3 bedroom house • beautiful year round creek • excellent water, hiking trails • perfect family and/or recreation
1280 Juniper Street VA V lemount, BC
1245 2nd Avenue VA V lemount, BC
NEW!
199,000
$
74,500
169,000
$
ireneb@royallepage.ca
930 3rd Avenue mcBRiDe, BC
• Great location • 2 bdrm cottage • Tastefully renovated • New bath with in-floor heat
70,000
• Cozy newer mobile • Approx. 2 scenic acres • Dore River access • Private, good find!
•
11944 essen Road tete JAune, BC
699,000
$
1245 Dorval Road mcBRiDe, BC
• Large yard quiet street • Excellent condition • Affordable living • Beautiful views
$
• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom • No wasted energy or space • Totally renovated • Immaculate
$
850 Airport Road mcBRiDe, BC
lot 4, Pine Road VA V lemount, BC
• Large 1/3 acre lot • 35 x 40 engineered shop • Room to build your house
89,000
$
• Great mountain retreat 1 hour from Jasper • Over 32 acres with custom log home • Potential plus spectacular views!
259,000
$
• Approx. 40 acre parcel • Minutes from Valemount • Extensive Swift Creek frontage • Very unique, excellent opportunity!
www.mountainviewrealty.ca
2010 Valemount
u i d G s ’ r Visito Coming Soone! Get the best for your advertising! Don’t miss out, call now
Ad Booking Deadline is April 9, 2010
Showcase your business with our Visitor’s Guide, Our design team will build your ad at NO additional cost to you!
Call Sharon to reserve your space today!
250.566.4425 1.800.226.2129
16 • Wednesday March 24, 2010 The Valley Sentinel RE/MAX Centre City • 1679 15th Avenue • Prince George BC V2L 3X2 • 1-250-562-3600
Each office independently owned and operated.
The Right Agent... For Today’s Market. 1097 5th Avenue, McBride, BC
$198,500
- Beautiful home - Bright and open - Five bedrooms - Large corner lot - Excellent gardens - Central location
1475 Dorval Road, McBride, BC
$269,000
- Riverfront property - Immaculate 5 bedroom - Two storey shop - Lots of trees - Excellent condition - Priced right!!
1155 3rd Avenue, McBride, BC
$199,000
- Special needs home - Electric Ceiling track lift - All wheelchair accessible - 3 bedroom home - Immaculate on 2 lots - Immediate occupancy - Perfect location
3512 Hinkelman Road, McBride, BC
$550,000
- Country acreage - 79 acre hobby farm - Treed with clearings - Great 2 storey home - Excellent gardens & location
1097 5th Avenue, McBride, BC
- Thriving outdoor sports business - Sale includes fixtures & inventory - Outerwear, power tools, parts & repairs - Spacious 4200 sq ft leased floorspace - Call for details!
$149,900
9201 Loos Road, Crescent Spur, BC - Unique country homestead - 3 bedroom w/sunroom - On 18.81 acres with hip roof barn - House built in 1997 - Very private & secluded - On school bus route
$142,500
- Large executive home - On 3 lots with garage - 3 large bedrooms, sunroom - Craftsman natural wood finished - Immaculate condition
4815 Hwy 16 E, McBride, BC
- Private secluded parcel - Loads of river frontage - Excellent for campsite or ?? - House, shop & cabin - Old growth timber - Abundant wildlife
$499,000
846 4th Avenue, McBride, BC
2300 Westlund Road, McBride, BC
NEW
- New on market - Nice shape on 2 lots - Level large setting - Very nice inside - Open spacious rooms - Private yard - Lots of wood work
- Home & acreage - Semi treed 37 acres - Large 4 bdrm home - Shop & barn - Excellent location
$94,500
$375,000
4592 Mountainview Road, McBride, BC
2345 Westlund Road, McBride, BC
NEW
- Private horse farm - Immaculate family home - New 3 stall barn with loft - New garage and shop - Excellent location
$580,000
100 Mountainview Road, McBride, BC
361 Dominion St, McBride, BC
$249,000
Data is from sources believed to be reliable but accuracy is not guaranteed.
$389,000
1890 Koeneman Road, McBride, BC
- Nice country home - Semi treed 17+ acres - 6 bdrms, 2 baths - Large truck shop - Perfect for home business
$425,000
- Awesome Valley view - Five bdrms, 4 baths - Perfect B&B - Treed 13.5 acres - Solarium, barn, and pond
$399,000
13292 Bunbury Road, Tete Jaune Cache, BC
- Attractive small acreage - Five bedroom modular - Truck shop - Gardens & Lawns - Semi treed 2 acres - Close to town, river & hiking
956 4th Avenue, McBride, BC
- Beautiful property - Mountainside cottage - Tastefully decorated - Awesome views - Treed 10 acre lot
$89,500
$315,000
- Nice 3 bdrm home - Totally renovated - All new kitchen - Excellent locations - Priced to sell
250-981-5742 or 250-569-0125 or Toll Free: 1-877-732-5767 • allanmiller@remax.net
Al Miller
McBride realtor, at your service www.robsonvalleyrealestate.ca
- 3 bdrm mobile
Valemount Real Estate 250-566-0021 • Cell 250-566-1025
tammy Vandenobelen
Owner & Sales Associate
1418 Bruce Place www.valemountlistings.com diamond in the rough
$
24,900
bed• This cozy 2 bed room mobile has had an interior restoration • New lino, laminate & carpet and $ paint throughout - needs updating/solid home - fenced yard • Newer fridge, - popular location stove & dishwasher - 4 bdrm/full bsmt • Also comes with best lot - hands down! washer & dryer • Located in Cranberry Mobile Home Park. • Makes a great starter or retirement home $
CheaPer than CheaP rent!
219,000
130,000
-1.5 acres/fully treed -great location/edge of town
-not in village/lower taxes -don’t miss out
❀ Exercise ❀ Equipment ❀ Weight Loss Products ❀ ❀ Eating Digest ❀ Vitamins & Supplements ❀
Jennifer applebaum
Managing Broker
Property Management
quiet Country setting PriCed below assessed value!
$
$
279,000
- over 2 acres minutes from town -newly renovated kitchen - over 3,000 sq ft/4 bdrms -large workshop/paved driveway
199,000
- multi-use investment property - two buildings on over 1/3 acre
elite subdivision
$
115,000
- .69 acre / awesome views - backs onto marsh
❀ Health & Fitness Tips ❀ Weight Training ❀
❀ Nutrition ❀ Bodybuilding ❀ Exercise Programs ❀
Jeannette townsend
- new workshop - fenced/landscaped yard
“Data is from sources believed to be reliable but accuracy is not guaranteed.”
Health & Wellness ❀ Health Clubs & Gyms ❀ Disease Preventions ❀
The hard-Working - tons nice of upgrades guy
Showcase your business in our Health & Wellness Feature
Publishing Date: Wednesday, March, 31st Booking Deadline: Thursday, March 25th Call Sharon to reserve your space today!
250.566.4425 1.800.226.2129
mortgage helPer
$ - underground services - water & sewer available
- 3 retail/office spaces currently rented - 1/2 blk off 5th Avenue
329,000
- 4 bdrm home / 2 bdrm apt - dbl attached garage
- fenced yard / deck - rental income