Volume 27 Issue 52

sentinel

YO U R C O M M U N I T Y YO U R N E W S PA P E R

THURSDAY

DECEMBER 27, 2012 $1.16 Plus HST

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 52 www.thevalleysentinel.com

S E RV I N G T H E R O B S O N VA L L E Y S I N C E 1 9 8 6

THE VALLEY

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

3 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

High: -12°C Low: -15°C

High: -13°C Low: -18°C

CHRISTMAS ELVES

High: -12°C Low: -15°C

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT PAGE 2

MALIGNE EXPLOSION PAGE 3

LAURA JOHNSON PHOTO

NEW RECRUIT PAGE 11

Cody Osadchuk, the sax-playing elf, joined other students and teachers for the annual Valemount Elementary School Christmas Concert, held at the Valemount Community Theatre on Thursday, Dec. 20.

TYSON REMMELG AND NORTHLAND NISSAN WOULD LIKE TO WISH EVERYBODY

A Very Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!

Tyson Remmelg Sales Representative

Ph. 250.561.8797 Cell. 250.569.7925 Toll Free: 1.866.920.4058 tremmelg@northlandnissan.com

I look forward to seeing everyone in the new year!

2

The Valley Sentinel, Robson Valley Region •

ThuRsday, deCeMbeR 27, 2012

Valemount’s top student receives academic award by lauRa Johnson Contributor

Standing in front of the donor wall at Valemount Secondary School (VSS), where her father created the metal work, Rebecca Lerch received the Governor General’s Award.

On Thursday, Dec. 20, Principal Dan Kenkel presented this remarkable young woman a medallion, which represents many hours of hard work and dedication.

“The calculation for the award is two thirds academic, and one third citizenship and effort,” stated VSS teacher Brian Hanson. “[It] is given to the top student in every high school.”

Lerch is working towards her bachelors of science at University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George, and hopes to possibly work as a veterinarian or biologist with an organization dedicated to helping endangered species.

On a recent trip to Europe, she had an opportunity to feed lemurs, which had a big impact on her. In addition to her academic studies, Lerch volunteers with seniors, coached basketball at the Valemount Elementary School for two years, and gives piano lessons.

Lerch’s older brother Jimmy received the same award five years ago, and although it seems to skip a child in between, she jokingly stated, “the pressure is really on my younger brother now.”

Something for the whole family! lauRa Johnson phoTo

Valemount secondary school principal dan Kenkel, left, and teacher brian hanson, right, present top student Rebecca Lerch with the Governor General’s award for academic achievement and citizenship, on Thursday, Dec. 20.

Serving the robSon valley region

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

3

Explosion in Maligne Canyon

By DANIEL BETTS Editor

blocking the Maligne Canyon where the famed ice walks normally proceed.

The large logs had been washed into the canyon during the spring high water, got jammed along the narrow cliffside and with the cold weather were frozen into place. The jam posed a significant obstacle for those wanting to enjoy the ice walks.

“I got further into the depths of the canyon than anyone had been to date only to discover this great tangled mess of wood in the final pothole,” explained Urie. He said pictures did not adequately show the extent of the issue as the pile and some of the hangers were three meters high and four meters deep.

The next morning, Urie and Steve Blake, Parks Canada safety specialist, took a look at the jam.

“As the threat of collapse posed an immediate threat to public safety, it was decided a small amount of explosives would be required to minimize, if not eliminate, the hazard,” said Urie. “To attempt to bring it down manually posed a threat to anyone who might try.”

Nardella explained that Parks Canada has a team of explosive experts who normally deal with avalanche control. On the morning of Dec. 20, the team carefully and strategically placed charges, while Parks employees were stationed along the trail, far from the demolition, to keep visitors safe. Witnesses far above the blast site reported that the explosion, which rumbled up and down the narrow canyon, was quite loud.

While the team had been prepared to lay a second round of charges, the first blast was successful in clearing the jam. Urie explained that the amount of explosives used and their placement had no effect on the structural integrity of the canyon itself. However he did express that he believed the integrity of the ice had been compromised in many places along the route and one should be aware that the depth of water underneath is, in some cases, upward of 10 meters.

The now displaced timber will remain in the canyon until spring waters sweep it further along next season.

So if you were out and about on Dec. 20 just after 10 a.m. and you happened to hear a loud boom echoing around the mountains, you were probably listening to the sound of logs being shattered apart by explosives.

I thought I was late. With camera in hand I quickly made my way down the Maligne Canyon trail looking for Sean Nardella, a visitor experience promotions employee with Parks Canada. Nardella had given me a tip that something interesting was happening in Maligne Canyon on the morning of Thursday, Dec. 20.

Despite the cold crispness in the air, my speedy hike along the slippery trail was keeping me much warmer than expected. I was more than a little concerned that I had missed the entire event, so I was very relieved to come across Nardella. He was standing on the trail pointing his iPhone at the edge of the canyon.

“They just called ‘fire in the hole’,” Nardella declared enthusiastically as I approached. He indicated that the event was happening below us, completely out of sight.

I sighed and wondered to myself what kind of shot I was going to get; would I even see anything? In my mind I was thinking a bang and puff of smoke, after all the canyon floor was far below us. I readied my camera and pointed it at the canyon’s edge in the vicinity of where Nardella believed they had laid explosive charges far below us. Two minutes passed. Was something wrong? I decided to make an adjustment by steadying myself against the fence. Big mistake.

BOOM! The explosion was deafening. Both Nardella and I were pushed back from the concussion. A bright, fiery flash roared up from the canyon floor, followed by a concussion that quaked the earth beneath our feet. Snow fell from the trees lining the canyon, and some trees swayed back from the blast. This was one of those moments where surprised expletives were most definitely in order, particularly for me having missed the shot entirely.

Nardella checked his iPhone and smiled. He had just hit the record button when the flash occurred, although neither one of us had been prepared for how powerful the blast would be.

Nardella and I exchanged adrenaline fuelled looks of surprise.

This had been the climax of a problem that was presented to Parks Canada two days earlier when local tour operator Joe Urie discovered a huge log jam

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Thanks & have a Merry ChrisTMas & happy new year! Our Office will be clOsed frOm dec. 22 - Jan. 2/13.

SEAN NARDELLA PHOTO

Taken from a video, this picture shows the final split second of a bright fire ball that roared up from the Maligne Canyon floor following the demolition of a log jam below.

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SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION & JASPER

4

The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION •

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

Reach The Valley Sentinel at: 250.566.4425, 250.569.2336 or 1.800.226.2129 Email: editor@thevalleysentinel.com or Fax: 250.566.4528

FUTURE CHRISTMAS WISHES

DAVE MARCHANT

VIEWPOINT

By DANIEL BETTS, Editor

It is December 24, and we are all still here. Perhaps this goes to show that despite the bleakest of scenarios no person or group can ever predict our fate. This isn’t to suggest that no bad thing will ever befall mankind either in small or large numbers. We live in a finite universe and, let’s face it, everyone and everything comes with a limited time span, even our own planet. However this time of year, we need not think about such things and no one should be suggesting otherwise from now on. Rather than dire predictions we can all wish for a better future and here are few wishes to consider.

If the ghost of Christmas future were to visit, I would hope that this dark spectre would reveal to each and everyone of us a world where, no matter what is going on, we continue to take the time to feast, celebrate and happily enjoy the fellowship of family and friends.

Christmas isn’t always a fun and exciting time for everyone. The holiday season is extremely stressful for many and for many more there is very little reason to celebrate.

For this reason it is important to extend our fellowship and goodwill outside our homes and families to encompass the entire community. Offering a means for neighbours and friends to have special experiences and feel connected to our community goes a long way in extending the spirit of giving and peace during this season. We hope the spirit of Christmas future would reveals that our traditions have adjusted to better encompass everyone in the community so nobody is ever left out this time of year.

In our modern age, the period leading up to Christmas has become very involved and even demanding. It is unfortunate that our world is commercially driven and many depend upon the holiday season for their income.

In the future, let’s hope that the season becomes simpler and emphasises heart-felt giving, rather than commercially or politically motivated spending.

Wouldn’t it be nice if society relieved the pressures surrounding this season so that we can honestly and happily embrace it in the manner in which it was first celebrated?

Of most importance for the holiday season is to take care of ourselves, our loved ones and those around us so that it remains joyous. Be mindful of our actions and how they affect others. If we have too much to drink, don’t drive.

Learn to relax and slow down while driving, even if we are late. It is better to arrive late than to not arrive at all. We should all get the rest that we need so that we stay healthy and have the strength to enjoy the festivities. While it might be difficult, pacing ourselves this time of year is very important. Having the fortitude to resist that extra helping will have it’s rewards in the new year.

From all of us, we wish everyone a very merry and safe Christmas. editor@thevalleysentinel.com

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Bob Beeson has been in Costa Rica for one month now and is slowly becoming acclimatized to the heat and humidity.

When asked, he says heʼs very happy to be there and thoroughly enjoys meeting new and old friends, locals and expats.

As you can see there is some mutual affinity amongst the four legged ones as well.

ANDREA SCHOLZ Publisher/ Production Manager publisher@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.

DANIEL BETTS Editor editor@thevalleysentinel.com DEANNA MICKELOW Sales and Office Assistant ads@thevalleysentinel.com

SYLVIA GRIGAT Copy Editing ALLAN FREDERICK Correspondent and Office Admin MARIE BIRKBECK Correspondent and Office Assistant CONTRIBUTORS: Birgit Stutz, Donalda Beeson, Laura Johnson and Astrid Frazier

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

5

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

U EPISODE 55: NEWTOWN MCBRIDE V Joe was under orders from Captain Baker to accompany Mr. Munshaw, the touring photographer, on a short jaunt to the new railway townsite of McBride. Munshaw had hired a freight wagon and driver to transport Joe, himself and his equipment at Burn’s Landing on the Fraser River to the Grand Trunk Pacific mainline.

McBride, named after Premier Richard McBride, was at first sight just like any of the tent-towns along the railway except for the larger more permanent buildings that were being constructed. Mile 90 became McBride and was selected by the G.T.P. as a divisional point. It was destined to house the new courthouse, B.C. Police barracks, two large hotels, a frame schoolhouse, freight buildings, section workers houses, and a large round-house. Joe and Mr. Munshaw arrived at the edge of town in about twenty minutes and proceeded to take pictures of the street-front buildings, including shops, post office and the franchised stores established by the big tent-town names of the time. These included the Hood Brothers, the Goodman Supply Company and the Thompson Hardware Company. Most of the streets and town-lots were already surveyed but the resident houses were scattered over the flat valley floor. There were more tree stumps than houses on the surveyed lots and McBride was alive with commerce and active construction.

Mr. Munshaw and his helper were soon at the railway tracks close to where two wooden water towers stood, one new and one still under construction. A crowd of people were gathered by the tracks when Joe and Munshaw arrived on the scene. Joe noticed that everyone was clustered around six women dressed in black-hooded robes.

“Why, it’s a group of nuns,” declared Mr. Munshaw to Joe. “I wonder what they’re doing way out here in the middle of nowhere?”

In the next episode, NUNS ON THE RUN, Mr. Munshaw takes more photographs and he and Joe discover exactly what the group of marauding nuns were up to.

We could not operate this program without the great support we receive.

Curtis Pawliuk, VARDA general manager

llfrazer@telus.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF CANADA.

The ship stopped long enough for Joe and Mr. Munshaw to go ashore.

ART OF CARIBOU JOE: JOE LEADING HIS PACK-HORSE

By LEONARD FRASER Submitted

This particular line-drawing by the late, Bill Metcalf, of Croydon, B.C., appears twice in the story of Caribou Joe. The first version is the one shown here and the other one is identical except Bill shaded in the figures to make it appear to be in

the late evening. Followers of the Caribou Joe episodes will know that the pack-horse played a major role in helping Joe transport bottles of moonshine from Moonbeam Creek (by Lempriere) to Tête Jaune. Or, as I wrote, “Joe carried some of the finest stump-whiskey west of Fitzhugh.”

SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION & JASPER

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the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

INBRIEF

NATIONAL PARK NEWS DECEMBER 27

Christmas forecast

The Robson Valley can expect a white Christmas this week, with the forecast showing a chance of flurries Monday through Wednesday in Valemount and McBride.

If Jasper sees snow, it won’t be until Boxing Day, when the temperature rises to a high of -11 C, up from Christmas Day’s high of -15 C and low of -25 C. In Valemount and McBride, the mercury will drop to a low of -18 C on Christmas Day, with a high of -13 C and a 60 per cent chance of flurries. On Boxing Day, the high is -12 C and the low is -16 C, and the chance of snow is 30 per cent.

Backcountry travellers reminded to be avalanche aware Whether you’re cross-country skiing, ski touring, snow-shoeing, ice climbing or winter mountaineering, be mindful of avalanche conditions, especially when heading into the backcountry.

“Almost all of those activities can take you into avalanche terrain,” said Steve Blake, visitor safety manager for Parks Canada.

Avalanche safety is a “shared responsibility” between Parks and backcountry travellers .

“It’s important to Parks Canada that people get out and experience the Park in safe ways, that’s why we try to provide as much of the pre-trip tools as we can.

“We do a daily avalanche bulletin, it’s published on our website so that people get an idea of the most current conditions.”

Parks performs “active” avalanche control in areas that may threaten the safety of vehicle travel. Explosives are set off on the road to Maligne Lake and Icefields Parkway en route to Lake Louise.

While these tools are provided, it’s expected that adventurers are equipped with training and proper gear to aid them while travelling in the backcountry.

“Trip planning is a really important thing in the winter in terms of understanding what the avalanche conditions are like and what the weather is going to be like,” said Blake.

Knowing conditions beforehand will better prepare you for any hazards or possible route changes.

Parks Canada will be teaming with Marmot Basin in the new year for avalanche awareness days during Jasper in January.

For the most recent avalanche reports, visit avalanche. pc.gc.ca.

FILE PHOTO

COUNTING CARIBOU

Have you ever wondered how Parks Canada knows how many caribou there are? Every year, Jasper’s biologists take to the skies counting caribou from a helicopter.

Flying over Jasper’s high alpine slopes (where caribou like to hang out during the rut season) biologists look for caribou in the Maligne, Brazeau and Tonquin areas, home to the park’s three southern herds.

Conditions have to be just right for flying – low wind, no clouds, and no precipitation. This year, flights into the Maligne and Brazeau revealed six and 12 Caribou respectively, numbers consistent with recent surveys for these herds.

The Tonquin Valley was less forgiving however, with poor weather grounding flights throughout the caribou rut. By late November, accurate surveys were no longer possible as the caribou had spread out, often heading into the trees. For the first time in ten years, the Tonquin aerial survey had to be abandoned.

Fortunately, biologists don’t just rely on caribou sightings to learn about their populations. They are also interested in what caribou leave behind – a layer of DNA frozen on their droppings or ‘scat’. This scat is collected and sent off for analysis to determine individual identity (including gender), and to estimate population size.

While collecting scat may not seem glamorous, caribou

do tend to leave it in some of the most spectacular areas of the park! Scat was collected from all three herds this year, and biologists hope to have these results within six months.

While the results of the DNA analysis are expected to give a good indication of each area’s population dynamics, without an aerial survey for the Tonquin Valley, the overall impact of the deaths of some caribou with tracking collars, and some wolf-killed individuals in that area this summer will be hard to judge.

The threatened southern mountain caribou are an important part of Canadian culture and history, and an indicator of the general health of the ecosystems in which they live. The more researchers know about this elusive animal, the better equipped they will be to protect them into the future.

Parks Canada is exploring and implementing methods to reverse caribou population declines. This includes seasonal trail and area closures and managing the density of food sources for caribou predators. Current research and ongoing monitoring are contributing to the sound science used to identify important caribou habitat on national park lands, determine immediate management actions to address population declines and identify potential long-term recovery actions.

For more information got to www.parkscanada.gc.ca/ caribou.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

The Fitzhugh & Valley Sentinel will be closed until Wednesday, Jan. 2nd. See you in the New Year!

Thursday, dECEMBEr 27, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel, roBson VallEy rEgion

The MP Report OPINION: Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

By BoB ZiMMEr MP Prince george - Peace river

After an extremely busy fall, Christmas is happily upon us again. Regardless of our religion or beliefs, Christmas is a very special time of year when we can come together, appreciate and celebrate with our loved ones the joy and peace of the holidays.

All too often we (I am including myself) can get caught up in the less than peaceful material side of Christmas – the last minute shopping, late night wrapping, and the baking and cooking – that it is easy to lose sight of what makes this time of year so special.

Christmas is about spending time with our loved ones – especially those who we are unable to see as often as we would like – and remembering those we have lost. It is about helping those who are less fortunate, whether though volunteering or by giving back to the many worthy causes which lend a helping hand to those in our communities. Thanks to all of you who contribute in your own way to making our country a better place. You go to work to provide for your families and our country. You make our world a better place and we appreciate what you do!

And a special thanks to our men and women in uniform at home and those overseas not able to be home with their loved ones so that we may spend our time with family and friends in peace. A peace that is beyond the reach of so many around the world and that we are truly blessed to have.

It is also a time to celebrate and give thanks for what the previous year has brought us, while looking forward with hope to what the future has in store.

I’ll finish by repeating some timeless words that have remained with us over the centuries that remind us of the reason for the season.

“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all Valemount people. For there is born to you this day in the city of Learning David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will Centre be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in 250-566-4601 swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly LOCAL JOB host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the POSTINGS highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’”

Updated 26 Luke 2:8-14 (NKJV).

Updated DEC.December 27, 2012 From my family and staff to all of you, Merry Christmas.  Bartender  Cashiers  Cook/Chef  Food Service Counter

LOCAL JOB POSTINGS

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1.888.611.5557 SenTinel leTTer Policy We welcome Letters to the Editor on all subjects. We do not publish anonymous letters, so please include your name and contact informations 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 the current standards of public taste.

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

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Please detailed about each of these postings, how to call orincluding drop in.info Foron more submit your application for these information on these jobs or job . opportunities other employment assistance

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

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

Valemount Health Centre changes to after-hours emergency access If you need emergency health care outside regular Health Centre hours, call 9-1-1 Valemount Health Centre Emergency Room hours: Mon. - Fri.: 8:40 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Sat. & Sun.: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For non-emergency health information call HealthLink BC (8-1-1) to get advice from a Registered Nurse, 24 hours per day.

the northern way of caring

7

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the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • Thursday, dECEMBEr 27, 2012

WEEKLYLHOROSCOPE

by MICHAEL O’CONNOR

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

This week’s Full Moon suggests that the year is hardly ending with a whimper. For your part, you are in a revolutionary mood. You are ready to make some big moves and on a variety of fronts. You will shake-it up alright and not later, but now.

This will become increasingly obvious this week as 2012 yields to 13!

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

Visions of the future are dancing in your mind. Feeling secure about it would be nice. Moving forward with confidence amidst so much naughty change can be a challenge. Yet change also offers openings and opportunities. The key is to be alert, aware and prepared. The wise men are saying to you: gather knowledge, get trained and stand ready.

G

L

ibra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Just as with the waxing cycle of the Solstice Sun’s light, you can sense and are ready for a new day. Many thoughts, ideas and visions are flowing through your mind, possibly too many. Yet, you can simply enjoy the abundance of possibilities they imply. It may take a little while yet to make good of these, so for now simply rejoice in the glow of prospects.

Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21)

You stand ready and set for the New Year. If ever there was a time when you felt the desire to get a jump on your goals, it is now. You have come through a lot these past few years; a new you is rising. Your sense of potential, feeling of possibility and reserves of talents and opportunities are twitching. On you mark…!

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21)

Out with the old and in with the new is a classic cry for freedom. Whether it is from inner or outer blocks and barriers, or to express yourself fully, true freedom requires discipline. Vision followed by initiative, then consistent follow through, that is the ancient recipe. Meanwhile expand your scope of contacts as luck and magic are linked to social connections.

C

emini (May 21 – Jun 21 A growing determination to push through and beyond opposition, whether within or without, is the twinkle in your eyes. Fresh perceptions and perspectives are egging you on.

Hardly a spectator of life, you are excited to participate. So many people to meet and creative ideas and feelings to express - what abundance!

apricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Your engines are revving and you are eager to shift into gear. There may be some unfinished business you need to attend to before you do so, however. Various facts and details from yesteryear require some attention. These may simply amount to a creative review. What was it you dreamed about that you hope you can remember?

Take some time to reflect and review.

The Full Moon in your sign is stirring you up! This is an emotional time of the year as it is, and it likely feels larger than ever. As with spirits, it is often best not to mix too much.

In this case the emphasis is on mixing too many thoughts with too many emotions. Give yourself the gift of full presence of heart and mind rejoicing in gatherings of friends and family.

Getting away from it all sounds like the gift you hope to get. If not then you may well decide to gift yourself that very opportunity. ‘It all’ refers more to duties, responsibilities and chores than people. In fact you are happy to socialize, to meet and greet. Either way, woe the one who tries to sway you from your goals, to get away and do exactly as you say!

Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19)

Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23)

isces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Your sense of individuality is peaking and may be leaving you feeling a little punchy. Yet, any strikes and blows will be directed more towards inner enemies, doubt demons and the like. You want to be seen and heard and the only person who may be standing in the way is you. Look for the right tools for the job, to affirm your worth and share your dreams and visions.

There is excitement in your air space alright! Many creative ideals are pouring in; a veritable deluge of inspirations. Rather than gawk with wonder and awe, take note and capture as many as you can before this celestial weather pattern changes.

Be open and receptive and smart enough to accumulate creative visions.

V

irgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) A creative cycle has begun! A steady learning curve is implied.

The time is right to be adaptable, flexible and willing to implement creative changes into your usual approaches.

Although the festive season can present opportunities to relax, you may be wise to maintain a steady pace of clearing the old to make way for what’s new.

P

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

Serving Jasper & the robSon valley region

Thursday, dECEMBEr 27, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel, roBson VallEy rEgion

9

Former McBride resident named Canada’s worst driver

By BirgiT sTuTZ Contributor

A former McBride resident won the shameful title of Canada’s Worst Driver in a tie.

Kevin Simmons was nominated for the popular TV show Canada’s Worst Driver by his partner Lenny Stone.

Simmons, who is originally from the Lower Mainland but had been living in McBride for about a year, was born with a condition that resulted in permanent blindness in his right eye and as a result he has to wear a prosthetic in that eye.

Simmons is also required to wear glasses as he has lost some vision in his left eye.

Simmons, whose disability affects his depth perception, has backed into other vehicles, hit a fence, a concrete barrier as well as various other things. He’s also had his licence suspended for 90 days after receiving two speeding tickets.

After being picked for the show out of over 1,000 submissions, Simmons and Stone spent almost a month in Ontario for the filming. The show features eight of the most challenged motorists from across the country who were enrolled at the show’s Driver Rehabilitation Centre at Dunnville airport in Toronto, Ont. The drivers had to

compete in various challenges designed to improve their driving skills in order to graduate and to not be named Canada’s Worst Driver.

The first episode of season eight of Canada’s Worst Driver aired on Oct. 29 on Discovery Channel and the season’s finale aired on Dec. 17. Simmons tied with Edmontonian driver Flora Wang.

Stone and Simmons recently moved to Burnaby, B.C. The show is one of two of the highest-rated programs on Discovery Channel and is produced by Proper Television.

Bird count something to tweet about By sarah MaKoWsKy reporter/photographer

A total of 832 birds, which is less than average, were counted at this year’s Christmas Bird Count on Sunday, Dec. 16.

There wasn’t as much activity at the feeders this year, explains Gord Ruddy from Friends of Jasper National Park. “That almost entirely depends on the temperature.

The colder it is, the more the feeders work and the warmer it is, the less they need us.”

Early snowfall also affected the count. “There were a few birds missing, like waxwings.”

The annual count, which takes place across the continent, paints a rough picture of bird populations and their locations. In Jasper, there’s a 12-kilometre radius, the centre being Maligne Canyon, that birders cover for the count.

“In Jasper we have some 50 or 60 years of bird counts,” said Ruddy. “Our bird count this year was middle of the road. We ended up with 34 species.”

A surprising find this year was the western meadowlark,

spotted by birders Trish Tremblay and Alicia Wallen. Also, Barb Barker saw a sharp-shinned hawk at her feeder.

A western meadowlark is an “unusual one” because it typically nests in a more southern location during winter months.

The number of house sparrows was down this year, a population that has experienced steady decline since 2000.

“The average is usually 150 and we’re down to about 90.”

In Jasper during the past 30 years, the highest count was 44 species and the lowest was 29. Counts range from 550 individual birds to 1,500.

This is the 113th annual Christmas Bird Count for the Audubon Society, a bird conservatory organization.

The count was started by a group of women on the US east coast as a response to men participating in a “side hunt” where they engaged in a competition to see who could shoot the most birds. The society has a photo depicting two brothers from New York, who shot a total of 65,000 birds in one day.

The women decided that they would start counting birds during Christmas holidays, and then-president of the Audubon Society, Frank Chapman, decided to make the count an annual event.

• WILF MOURRE May 23, 1933 - November 29, 2012 Former Owner of Blue River Motel, late of Qualicum Beach, Sadly missed by family and friends.

Valemount Public Library Adult fiction

Valemount Public Library

The Marseille caper ~ Peter Mayle Flight behavior ~ Barbara Kingsolver River of mercy ~ B.J. Hoff A winter dream ~ Vince Flynn

Adult non-fiction

The inconvenient Indian ~ Thomas King National Geographic 125 years ~ Mark Collins Jenkins Redefining success ~ Brett Wilson Lemon aid new cars and trucks 2013 ~ Phil Edmonston

Junior

Chickens on the farm ~ Rose Carraway The skeletal system ~ Greg Roza Hidden ~ P.C. Cast Tabby McTat, the musical cat ~ Julia Donaldson Annie and the wild animals ~ Jan Brett

Food for fines - Nov 1- Dec 22 For every food item donated we will forgive $2 of your late fees

The library will be closed for the holidays from Dec. 22 until Jan. 2

http://valemount.bclibrary.ca

Library hours Tues, Thurs, Fri: 10 am - 5 pm, Wed: 10 am - 9 pm, Sat: 11 am - 3pm

New at the McBride Public Library Adult Fiction

Love Anthony – Lisa Genova Blackberry Winter – Sarah Jio The Bone Bed – Patrician Cornwell The Innocent – David Baldacci allan FrEdEriCK phoTo

on dec. 18, brief stops were performed by local rCMp in McBride to ensure highway safety.

Highway safety check stop By allan FrEdEriCK reporter

In the late afternoon of Tuesday, Dec. 18, representatives from the local RCMP detachment together with Lakes District Maintenance and McBride and District Volunteer Fire Department personnel performed a highway safety check stop at the west end of McBride on Highway 16.

Members of the participating agencies stopped vehicles

and were checking to ensure seat belts were in use, winter tires were on vehicles and people were aware of the winter driving conditions. Drivers were also informed that many animals had been seen on the highways.

For their inconvenience of the brief delay, the drivers and passengers were given candy canes and wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

Adult Nonfiction

Memoirs of an Outfitter’s Daughter – Valemount Historic Society Fearless: One woman, one kayak ..- Joe Glickman Tornado Warning – Elin Stebbins Waldal Polar Bears: The Natural History ...- Ian Stirling Running for Women – Jason Karp

Junior

That Boy Red – Rachna Gilmore Looking for Alaska – John Green Mountain Gorillas in Danger – Rita Ritchie Hidden – P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast

CDs:

Rooted – Sasha Lewis Every Whisper is a Shout Across the Void – Fish & Bird Face Time – Jesse Peters On This Winter’s Night – Lady Antebellum

December 25th & 26th – CLOSED December 27th, 28th, 29th – open 2-5 p.m.

250-569-2411

www.mcbride.bclibrary.ca

10

The Valley Sentinel, Robson Valley Region •

SPecial eVentS Annual General Meeting

Wednesday, January 9th 7:00 p.m.

241 Dominion Street, McBride

Contact Naomi at 569-2411 or library@mcbridebc.org with questions.

Valemount

MONDAYS: • Play and Learn from 10 a.m. to noon at the Valemount Community Hall.

• Valemount Seniors Carpet Bowling 9 a.m. at the Golden Years Lodge.

• Royal Canadian Legion General meetings every third Monday of month at 7:30 p.m. in Legion. tueSDAYS: • Valemount Children’s Activity Centre Board Meeting third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Centre beneath the Community Hall (the red door).

• Council Meeting second and fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Everyone welcome.

• Volleyball 7:15 to 9:15 p.m.

Valemount Secondary School gymnasium. Sign up for the season or drop in. Must have indoor shoes.

Call Suzanne Bloodoff 250-5669979.

WeDNeSDAYS: • Public Library Board Meeting Every second Wednesday at 5 p.m.

Downstairs at the library.

• Valemount seniors music night 7 to 9 p.m. Golden Years Lodge • Toastmasters meets every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Best Western.

• Valemount Arts & Cultural Society

ThuRsday, deCeMbeR 27, 2012

Valemount Winter FestiVal 2013 Feb. 9 and 10, 2013 Get ready for a fun-filled, energetic outdoor winter experience at the annual Valemount Winter Festival.

This year besides the traditional snowmobile poker run, raising money for the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities, snowmobile drag races are back.

The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Racing Association, Tourism Valemount and VARDA are presenting the second annual Snowmobile Drag Races including a class for local racers, Jr. amateur, and mini sled class.

For more information check out http://www. visitvalemount.ca/winter/winterfest1.htm

meets the last Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. downstairs at the Library. Call 250-566-9049.

• Meditation classes at The Gathering Tree at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5/week.

Call Regena 250-566-9181 tHuRSDAYS: • Cribbage Game at Golden Years Lodge from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Everyone Welcome!

• Chamber of Commerce Quarterly General Meetings third Thursday of January, April, July and October at 4:45 p.m.

• Saddle & Wagon Club Meeting third Thursday at 7 p.m. 566-9707.

• Valemount Family Support Group will meet the last Thursday of every month at the old Village Office, 99 Gorse St., at 7:30 p.m.. For families dealing with mental health issues.

Call Irene Brady at 250- 566-1958.

• Adult recreational badminton from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Valemount Secondary School. Drop-ins welcome.

FRIDAYS: • Valemount Legion Friday Night dinners starting at 5 p.m.

• Alcoholics Anonymous Friday evenings at 8 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Catholic Church basement.

SAtuRDAYS: • Valemount circle dance. For more info please contact 250 566-1782.

next VaCs shoW - the Compadres Jan. 26, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. at the Valemount Community Theatre. James Keelaghan and Latin guitarist Oscar Lopez are Juno award winning folk artists who have become notable independent Canadian roots recording artists. With Celtic influences their sometimes rollicking and sometimes melancholy folk material is fused with Lopez’s fiery guitar vibe. Tickets on sale at Infinity Office and Health. annual neW Years eVe Free skate All are invited to the Annual New Years Eve free skate at the Robson Valley Recreation Center in McBride.

Monday evening Dec. 31, 2012 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Hot chocolate and coffee will be provided. This event is sponsored by the McBride E. Free Church. Bring your family and enjoy a couple of hours of good exercise and visiting with friends and neighbours.

tete Jaune

• Tete Jaune Community Club meetings held the first Tuesday of

the month at 7 p.m. at the Tete Jaune Hall.

DunSteR

• Dunster Winter Market starts from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1st at the Dunster Community Hall.

mcBRiDe

• McBride Community Forest Open quarterly meetings on the first Wednesday of the month on January 9, April 3, July 3, and October 2 at the McBride Village Council Chambers at 7 p.m. tueSDAYS: • Royal Canadian Legion meetings on first Tuesday, monthly.

• Community Badminton at McBride secondary school at 7 p.m.

• TOPS 6:45 p.m. weigh-in, 7:15 p.m. meeting. Health Unit in McBride. New members welcome.

Call Brenda Molendyk 569-3113 • Village Council Meeting second and fourth Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Village Council Chambers.

• Alcoholics Anonymous every Tuesday, 8 p.m. at the Health Unit.

• Ready, Set and Learn at the Elementary School. Families and their two to five year olds who

attend will engage in play-based early learning activities. Call 5692721 to register.

• Words of Whimsy - creative writing for teens at 7 p.m. at the McBride Library.

WeDNeSDAYS: • Pickle ball at McBride Secondary School at 7 p.m.

• Storytime with Mother Goose at the McBride library at 10 a.m.

• Diabetes Support Group first Wednesday at 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 Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the McBride Health Centre.

More info call Norma 569-2637 or Elizabeth 968-4347.

• Valley Piecemakers Quilt Guild every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the High School. New members welcome, contact Dawna Hickerty 250-569-3210.

• Legion Auxiliary Bingo first and third Wednesday of the month at the Legion Hall. tHuRSDAYS: • OAPO Stitch & Knit every Thursday from 2:30 to 4 p.m., Beaverview Lodge, Hilda Murin 569-3305.

SAtuRDAYS: • Writer’s Circle at 1 p.m. Alternates between Dunster Fine Arts School & McBride Library. All Welcome.

Contact 250-569 2411.

Peter Reimer Notary Public

250-566-4464

Real Estate & Mortgages Wills, Contracts & Affidavits

LISTINGS

CHURCH

1222 5th Avenue, Valemount Cell: 250-318-8808 • notary@vis.bc.ca VAleMOuNt GOOD SHEPHERD ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 3rd Ave & Elm St. 1-877-314-4897 Sunday 8:30am / Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat-9am / Wed & Fri 7pm ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH 7th & Cedar. 250-566-4797 Sunday Worship 10am

NEW LIFE CENTRE 1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824 Family Worship 10:30am.

Prayer meeting Thurs 7pm CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SERVICES 250-968-4349 or 250-566-4568 Sunday 3pm, Sun. School 3pm VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 250-566-9996, Praise & Worship 11am Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

1222 5th Ave. Valemount, B.C. Phone: 250-566-4464 • Fax: 250-566-4271 Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

After hours by arrangement VALEMOUNT COMMUNITY CHURCH E-Free Church NEW location the old Sporting & Clothing building on 5th Ave Every 2nd Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

McBRIDe ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 197 Dominion, 250-569-2606 Sun. Communion Service 11am

ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH 441 Dominion St., 250-569-3206 or 250-569-3386.

Worship/Kids church 10am SEVENTH - DAY ADVENTIST Lamming Pit Rd, 250 569.3370 Sabbath School: Sat. 9:30am, Worship Service Sat. 11am, Pathfinders Tues 7pm, Prayer Meeting Wed 7pm

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH Church 569.2378 or 569.8845 1st Ave Worship Service on Sun 10:30am MOUNTAIN CHAPEL (PAOC) Church 569-3350/Office 569-6802 Sunday Worship 11am, Prayer Service Wed. 7pm MENNONITE CHURCH Sun. Sch. 10am, Sunday Services 11am, 7:30pm Wed 7:45pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION

11

McBride resident newest member of the Canadian Forces

By ALLAN FREDERICK Reporter

A McBride resident has chosen to give up his freedom in order to secure ours. Spencer Kimpton, at the age of 20, has enlisted with the Canadian Forces. On Nov. 29, Kimpton graduated from Basic Military Training (BMT), a 14-week program that he attended in St. Jean, Que. In an interview with The Valley Sentinel, Kimpton explained that he looked to the Canadian Forces for an exciting future with travel opportunities and a solid career potential. He now has a four-year commitment with the Canadian Forces.

Kimpton will spend Christmas with his family, but on Jan. 7 he will be headed to Gagetown, N.B. to report for Soldier Qualification, a four-week course. This will be followed by another five months of engineer training, which will allow him to take a combat engineer position with the army sector at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering.

Kimpton advises that anyone looking to join the military should, “be in the best shape as you can when you start.”

His initial group of candidates started with 65 with only 43 candidates completing their BMT. “Our day started at 5 a.m., in basic training, and ended at 11 p.m. daily, with the days even longer when in the field.

The days are physically demanding, but food at the mess is plentiful and good,” said Kimpton.

According to Kimpton field rations or Improvised Meal Packages (IMP’s), had varying taste appeal.

Kimpton hopes to complete his engineering training in July 2013 and will request to be posted in Edmonton. Other locations that are available for an engineering graduate include Gagetown, N.B. and Petawawa, Ont. Kimpton hopes to continue his career with the Canadian forces as an Explosives Ordnance Disposal engineer as his specialty. So far Kimpton is really enjoying his career choice.

Strengthening families together

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Above: This past fall, local McBride resident, Spencer Kimpton, was pushed to the limit during Basic Military Training in St. Jean, Que. Left: Spencer Kimpton proudly wears the Canadian Forces uniform after successfully completing Basic Military Training.

New Years Eve

Gala 2012

By DONALDA BEESON Contributor

Do you have a relative or friend with a serious mental illness? Strengthening Families Together (SFT) is a ten-week series of support sessions for the family members, friends, or co-workers, who are trying to support an individual living with a mental health issue.

The sessions are group-based and set up to provide information, skill-building, support and resources over the ten week period.

This program is going to be offered locally in Valemount in the New Year by co-facilitators Irene Brady and Donalda Beeson. Brady and Beeson took their SFT facilitator training together last spring in Prince George as funded by BC Schizophrenia Society. They are delighted to be able to offer the program locally, free of charge.

Each week’s session provides Canadian-based information on topics associated with living daily with a mental health challenge. Sample topics include, understanding the signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, treatment options, developing coping skills, navigating the mental health care system, learning effective advocacy strategies, and how to cope with and support your loved one living with a mental illness.

The group will meet weekly on Wednesday evenings, starting Jan. 9, 2013 continuing through to Mar. 13, 2013. The program will be held at the Valemount public library from 6:30 to 9 p.m. This program is free to the public but registration is necessary since there are only resources available for eight people to attend. At the end of the course, the information binder is yours to keep as a reference. To register or for more information, you can reach Brady email at, irenebradycounselling@gmail.com, or by phone at 250-566-1958.

Call to purchase tickets today!

Celebrating New Years Eve In Style

with the “Whiskey Boyz” Driveways Parking Lots Excess Snow 1140 Main St.,Valemount - 250.566.9774

Cocktails at 6:00 pm • Dinner at 7:00 pm Ticket $40.00 per person Includes: Dinner, Dance, Midnight Snack, Champagne and Party Favors BEST WESTERN PLUS Valemount Inn & Suites 250-566-0086 • 1950 Hwy 5 South, Valemount

12

The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION •

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

Christmas customs around the world

By MARIE BIRKBECK Contributor

What do these words have in common?

These are just some of the ways people around the world wish each other a Merry Christmas.

Feliz Navidad - Mexico

Joyeux Noel - France

Mele Kalikimaka - Hawaii

Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia - Poland

God Jul and (Och) Ett Gott Nytt År - Sweden

Nollaig Chridheil dhuibh - Scotland, Gaelic

Sheng Dan Kuai Le - China

Christmas in Mexico

Mexicans share many traditions with the Spanish. In Mexico the main Christmas festivity is called Las Posada, a nine-day celebration that goes from December 16 to 24 each year, and is a religious procession that re-enacts the search for shelter by Joseph and Mary before the birth of Jesus. During the procession, the celebrants go from house to house carrying the images of Mary and Joseph looking for shelter.

Santa Claus is not predominant, but the bright red suit is represented in the poinsettia with its brilliant red, star-shaped bloom, the traditional flower of the season. Legend has it that a young boy walking to the church to see the nativity scene had realized on the way that he had no gift to offer the Christ child. He gathered up some plain green branches, but as he walked he was ridiculed for his choice. However, upon placing the branches near the manger a bright red poinsettia flower bloomed on each branch.

Mexican children also receive gifts. On Christmas day they are blindfolded before they try to break a decorated clay piñata that dangles and swings at the end of a rope. Once the piñata has been broken, the children clamber to recover the candy and toys hidden inside the piñata. Those children who have been good also receive a gift from the Three Wise Men on Jan. 6. In northern Mexico, Santo Clos brings children big presents in December, and Reyes Magos brings the smaller presents in January.

Mexicans attend a midnight mass service, which is called la Misa Del Gallo or “the rooster’s mass.” During the mass participants sing lullabies to Jesus.

All over the country, in every city and in every little town, bakeries offer the Rosca de Reyes, an oval sweetbread, decorated with candied fruit. There are Roscas of all sizes, very small ones for two or three people and those that will delight more that twenty people. The rosca is served along with tamales, made of corn, and hot chocolate.

The Mexican Christmas season is joyously extended up to Feb. 2, when the nativity scene is put away, and another family dinner of delicious tamales and hot chocolate is served with great love and happiness.

Christmas in China

The Christian children of China decorate trees with colorful ornaments called “Trees of Light.” These ornaments are made from paper in the shapes of flowers, chains and lanterns. They also hang muslin stockings hoping that Dun Che Lao Ren or “Christmas Old Man” will fill them with gifts and treats.

The non-Christian Chinese call this season the Spring Festival and celebrate with many festivities that include delicious meals while paying respects to their ancestors.

The children are the focus of these celebrations; they receive new clothes and toys, eat delectable food and watch firecracker displays.

Christmas in Switzerland

A tinkling of a silver bell heralds the arrival of Christkindli - a white clad angel, with a face veil held in place by a jeweled crown. The tree candles are lit as she enters each house and hands out presents from the basket held by her child helpers.

The week before Christmas, children dress up and visit homes with small gifts.

Bell ringing has become a tradition, and each village competes with the next when calling people to midnight mass. After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.

In Switzerland, the Chlausjagen Festival or Feast of St. Nicholas is celebrated at dusk on Dec. 6 with a procession of “lifeltrager’ wearing gigantic illuminated lanterns in the shape of a Bishop’s mitre on their heads.

The Swiss wait for the arrival of the Christ child, called Christkindli, with gifts for all, in his reindeer-drawn sleigh.

In Switzerland, during the holiday season the Star Singers or Sternsingers dressed as the Three Kings parade through the streets of cities and towns singing Christmas songs.

In Zurich, Santa visits in a special fairytale tram and gives the children a ride through the city, singing songs with them and sharing a basket full of sweets.

Christmas in Sweden

Christmas begins in Sweden with the Saint Lucia ceremony. Before dawn on the morning of Dec. 13, the youngest daughter from each family puts on a white robe with a red sash. She wears a crown of evergreens with tall-lighted candles attached to it. She wakes her parents, and serves them with coffee and Lucia buns. The other children accompany her. The boys dress as star boys in long white shirts and pointed hats and carrying star wands.

The custom goes back to Lucia, a Christian virgin martyred for her beliefs at Syracuse in the fourth century. The Saint Lucia ceremony is recent, but it represents the traditional thanksgiving for the return of the sun.

Scandinavian Christmases feature candle-lit processions to church. In the home it is always mother who lights the candles on Christmas Eve. Christmas trees are usually found in Swedish homes two days before Christmas.

Decorations may include candles, apples, Swedish flags, small gnomes wearing red tasseled caps, and straw ornaments. Houses may be filled with red tulips and smell like pepparkakor, which is a heart-star, or goat-shaped gingerbread biscuit.

Swedish Julafton, or Christmas Eve dinner, may be a smorgasbord, with julskinka (Christmas ham), pickled pigs’ feet, lutfisk (dried codfish), and many different kinds of sweets including, Risgrynsgröt, a special rice porridge which has an almond hidden in it. Tradition claims that the person who finds the almond in his or her bowl will marry in the coming year. On the night before Christmas it is crucial that a bowl of Risgrynsgröt with a dollop of butter be left out for the house elf. Failure to do so would result in the house elf causing all sorts of mischief including releasing the animals.

After Christmas Eve dinner, a friend or family member dresses up as a tomte or Christmas gnome. Folklore has it that the tomte, unlike Santa Claus, lives under the floorboards of the house or barn and rides a straw goat. The make-believe tomte, wearing a white beard and dressed in red robes, distributes gifts from his sack. Many gifts are given with funny rhymes that hint at the contents.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION

VES concert: Twas a Story Book Christmas

By LAURA JOHNSON Contributor/Photographer

Elf writers and painters, pretty pink pigs, a radiant Red Riding hood, Mr. Wolfgang A. Wolf, a choir, country folk, some very cute singers and dancers, and of course Mr. and Mrs. Claus, came together on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 20, to give a Christmas performance in the theater of the Valemount Secondary School.

These young actors and singers, otherwise known as children and teachers from the Valemount Elementary School, delivered a wonderful program that questioned old fashioned traditions and stories, and if they should be changed somehow to reflect a more modern time. The theater was full of proud family, friends, and folks who like to support the children and community. I’m sure if there were any grouches in the audience beforehand, the uplifting, well rehearsed performance, and cheerfulness of the children, would have made short work of them.

13

14

The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION •

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

Dec. 20 RDFFG board meeting highlights

By RENEE MCCLOSKEY Submitted

RDFFG Board re-elects Art Kaehn as chair, Dave Wilbur as vice chair for 2013

Directors with the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George have re-elected Art Kaehn (Electoral Area E, Hixon-Woodpecker) as the Chair and Dave Wilbur (City of Prince George) as Vice-Chair. Mr. Kaehn has served as Chair of the Regional District since 2007.

This is Mr. Wilbur’s second term as Vice-Chair.

Telus cellular expansion supported

In partnership with the Province of BC to improve cellular coverage within the Province, Telus is proposing the construction of new radio communications installations along Highway 97 and Highway 16 East. The latest sites are located north and south of Summit Lake, as well as Dunster and Dome Creek, on the way to the Robson Valley Over the next three years, Telus has plans to expand new wireless coverage along 1,700 kilometers of highways throughout the Province of British Columbia to improve the safety of highway travel.

Highway crossings explored

The Regional District will be writing a letter to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure after receiving a copy of a letter from the Hixon Community Association expressing concern about the lack of a safe highway crossing in the community. Directors shared information from other communities who share similar concerns for their communities including McBride, Valemount, Mackenzie, MacLeod Lake and Bear Lake.

Volunteer fire department takes advantage of rebate

The Salmon Valley Volunteer Fire Department is taking advantage of a rebate and saving big dollars. Back in 2009, the department financed its 2009 engine through Scotia Bank for a five-year term ending in January 2014. With the transition back to GST and PST there is an opportunity for the fire department to save approximately $7,000 by exercising the early buy-out option and collecting the higher rebate available under the HST.

Community Grants

The Board approved the following requests for Community and Recreation Grants: • $485 to the Ness Lake Fire Fighters Society for awareness/education costs.

• $1,000 to the Reid Lake Community Association for a community appreciation dinner and dance.

• $925 to the Salmon Valley Gymkhana Club for insurance.

• $7,100 to the Beaverly Community Association for grounds and outhouse maintenance at park.

• $500 to the Miworth Community Association for a bursary.

• $8,000 to the Ferndale Tabor Volunteer Fire Department Society for a thermal imaging camera.

• $25,000 to the Strata Corporation PG 152 for Tabor Lake sewer pump and hauling expenses.

• $5,000 to the Pineview Seniors for program costs.

• $10,000 to Barkerville Heritage Trust for storage and light bulb replacement expenses.

• $5,000 to the Friends of Barkerville for exhibit and signage expenses.

• $25,000 to the Fraser Basin Council for Naver Creek flood mitigation work.

• $65,000 to Willow River Recreation Association for Eastline Activity Centre construction expenses.

• $500 to the Bear Lake Volunteer Firefighters Association for a volunteer appreciation dinner.

• $7,000 to Mackenzie Search and Rescue Society for satellite system and accessories.

• $2,000 to the McBride Centennial Elementary School for swimming lessons.

• $4,500 to the McBride and District Volunteer Firefighters Association for PASS alarms.

• $1,500 to the Robson Valley Spay and Neuter Society for vet services.

• $1,500 to the Yellowhead Ski Club for trails grooming.

Northern Health advises Valemount of after-hours emergency service changes

By NORTHERN HEALTH Press Release

Northern Health is changing the way emergency services are accessed at Valemount Community Health Centre to help ease the burden on nursing staff after hours. These changes are intended to support the retention of nursing staff in the Valemount area.

The Valemount Community Health Centre provides emergency services Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on a walk-in basis from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Outside of these operating hours, emergency medical care is available on an on-call basis.

Currently, Valemount residents are able to call a nurse directly or visit the health centre after hours to be met by the on-call nurse.

Effective Jan. 2, on-call health staff in Valemount will provide after-hours 9-1-1 response only.

Valemount residents with emergency health care needs outside regular operating hours should call 9-1-1, to have the appropriate staff respond to the health centre.

After-hours calls of a non-emergency nature will be re-directed to the 8-1-1 HealthLink

BC service for 24/7 health advice from a registered nurse.

“Northern Health has worked closely with Valemount physicians and staff to focus on providing the best level of emergency service we can,” said Michael McMillan, chief operating officer for the Northern Interior Health service delivery area.

“Our goal is to protect the well-being of our dedicated staff, while ensuring the emergency health needs of Valemount residents continue to be met.”

Sudden and/or unusual changes in health that could constitute an emergency include, but aren’t limited to:

• • • • • • • •

Breathing difficulties Chest pain Loss of consciousness Sudden changes in speech/vision Sudden weakness/dizziness Severe bleeding or pain Broken bones Eye injuries

Regularly scheduled emergency services will continue to be available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and weekends from 10:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Patients requiring nonemergency care should book an appointment with a family doctor during regular hours.

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DEADLINES: ADVERTISING, CLASSIFIEDS & COMMUNITY EVENTS FRIDAY @ 5 PM

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MONDAY @ NOON

Thursday, dECEMBEr 27, 2012 •

We are a growing company looking to expand our team.

Human Resources 96 Geikie St., Jasper AB Phone: 780-852-2505 Fax: 780-852-5813 Email: hire@mpljasper.com Interested in a career? www.mpljasper.com

We are currently hiring for the positions of:

•FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR (Pocahontas Cabins)

•MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR •ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK

FOOD COUNTER ATTENDANT FT shiftwork. No exp. req. Duties: serve customers, portion & prepare & wrap; vegetables, meats, sandwiches. Bake bread. Stock refrigerators & supplies. Record food used. Cleaning: stations, tables, floors, washrooms, dishes. $9.75 to $11.50/hour, 36+ hrs/wk. 6 positions.

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

15

is now hiring a

FOOD SERVICE SUPERVISOR FT shiftwork. 2 to 3 years exp. or related College Diploma. Duties: Review & adjust daily sales projections. Prescreen applications. Open & close the restaurant. Supervise, train, delegate shift tasks. Ensure quality standards. Assist in ordering. Record stock used. Responsible for shift cash, till & order accuracy. Serve customers, handle concerns, prepare food, cleaning. $10.00 to $13.00/hour, 38+ hrs/wk. 4 positions.

OffICE assIstant Part-time position

To start in January. Some bookkeeping experience necessary. Apply in person with resume.

Apply at: Jasper Subway (Kvill Enterprises Ltd.), #626 Connaught Drive, Box 1437, Jasper, Alberta, T0E1E0 or jspsbwy@ymail.com

612 Patricia street 780-852-5304 tnface@telus.net

•LINE COOKS Publisher

•ROOM CLEANERS

Aberdeen Publishing has an opening for the positions as Publisher of the Jasper Fitzhugh.

We offer great benefits, bonus, career growth and temporary subsidized housing.

is hiring

We are seeking a proven leader with the entrepreneurial skills to continue and further enhance the strong growth this paper has experienced over the past six years.

3 LINE COOKS

Full time positions to start immediately Starting Wage is $13.61 per hour

Ideally, you should have a good understanding of all facets of newspaper operations with emphasis on sales, marketing and financial management. In addition, our new publisher should be well suited to working with community groups and clients as well as developing sponsorship opportunities for the newspaper,

2 KITCHEN HELPERS Full time positions to start immediately Starting wage is $11.41 per hour

Lakes District Maintenance Ltd. is looking for

Auxiliary / Seasonal Snow Plow Drivers for November 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013

Please apply in person or send your resume online to: downstreamjasper@gmail.com, fax it to 1-888-285-4333 or call 780-852-8844.

As publisher of the Fitzhugh, you will help develop strategy for the newspaper as it continues to serve this diverse marketplace.

Jasper Inn & Suites

If you have the ability to innovate, are customer driven, success oriented, and want to live in one of the most beautiful places in Alberta, then we want to hear from you. We offer a generous compensation and benefits package as well as the opportunity for career advancement.

Positions available in McBride and Tête Jaune Cache.

Minimum of Class 3 BC Drivers Licence with air endorsement or recognized equivalent required.

Aberdeen Publishing is one of Western Canada’s largest independent newspaper companies with properties in British Columbia and Alberta.

is currently hiring

MAINTENANCE WORKER

Wages and allowances per collective agreement.

Full-time, experience an asset, accommodation available.

Apply in person with resume or email: Brad Derbowka,

Apply in person at the Tête Jaune Cache Office, or to careers@ldmltd.ca or fax to 250-692-3930 www.ldmltd.ca

Please submit your resume by December 31, 2012, to the attention of: Ron Lovestone, Regional Manager Prince George Free Press 1773 South Lyon Street Prince George, BC V2N 1T3 Telephone 778.349.6327 or email publisher@northeastnews.ca

Maintenance Manager • bradderbowka@jasperinn.com

98 GEIKIE STREET • 780-852-4461

DEADLINE FrIDAy At 5:00 pm JaspeR classifieds FOr rent

FOr rent

ServiceS

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1ST, 2013 One bedroom fully furnished suite. No pets, no smoking. $750 per month, all utilities included, except phone. Call 780-852-3326 or 780-852-8294.

FURNISHED ROOMS for rent, includes utilities, full cable, all inclusive. Please leave name and number.

Reasonable rates, suit singles only. Call 780-852-3337.

Available to house sit or pet sit, from now until the end of January. Call Tara at 780-852-8898.

CALL THE FITZHUGH AT 780-852-4888 OR THE VALLEY SENTINEL AT 250-566-4425 TO PLACE YOUR AD

Robson Valley classifieds autOmOBiLeS

heavY equipment

rentaLS

hOme FOr SaLe

2002 Saturn SL, grey, 4 door sedan, 433,000 kms, manual transmission, great fuel economy.

Has been a good commuter car. $1,500 OBO. Call Loretta 250-968-4453. GTS NOV 29 1993 Dodge Spirit car Loaded, 78,000 original kilometres. Garage stored. Excellent condition. Excellent Fuel economy. $3,499 OBO. Contact Oli at 250-569-2583. GTS SEPT 5

Feller Buncher 227 Cat, new motor, good undercarriage, most of this machine is rebuilt. Price $15,000 OBO. Call 250-5662471. GTS JULY 25

$550 plus hydro. Scott 250-566-1569 DEC 20 Furnished 1 and 2 bedroom homes and bachelor suite. Available immediately, in Valemount. 250-566-9884. Emails ideal4@ gmail.com. JAN 3

Move-in ready 4 bedroom, 3 bath home Recently renovated. Hardwood, tile and laminate throughout. Extra lot, fences and landscaped yard make this the perfect home. This is a must see if you are looking to relocate. 1311 - 9th Ave. Valemount, B.C. Call or text Michelle today at 250-566-1947 or call Francis at 250-566-4411. GTS DEC 13

2004 Ford Freestar minivan Sports model. Tan colour. Loaded. Good condition. Clean. Winter rims and tires included. $6,500 OBO Phone 250-569-7295 daytime or 250-968 4322 evenings. GTS JAN 25

camper with truck 1995 Wilderness 5th wheel camper 21.5 feet.

Sleeps 6 people with queen size upper bed.

Fridge, 4 burner stove/oven, propane heated, AM/FM stereo, shower tub, with 12 ft. awning $700.00 In great condition. 1996 Ford F-250 extended cab short box, 196,000km, truck canopy included. Asking price is $10,000 for BOTH OBO. If interested call Jocelyn 250-5664491 (home) or 250-566-1700 (cell) GTS SEPT 5

miSc. FOr SaLe Ho Ho Ho! Fight “Christmas Treat Guilt” by filling your stockings with Roger’s healthy, naturally grown garlic. Phone 250-566-9794. Dec 27 Case Model 530 Tractor front end loader in good condition $3,500. Parts tractors Case 530 backhoe attachment $1,000. 14 foot tandem field disk $800. Contact 250-2190277 GTS NOV 29 Good used sea containers for sale. McBride area $3,650, Valemount $3,500 Delivered. We accept Visa/MC 250-314-9522. JAN 3

rentaLS 2 Bedroom house on acreage for rent in Tete Jaune. $700 per month. Contact 250-566-9811 DEC 20 CN APARTMENTS in Valemount- 1 & 2 BR $520 & $590 plus hydro. No pets. JUNIPER MANOR -Furnished Bachelor $450 plus hydro. 2 BR

cOmmerciaL Space Office space for rent or lease in the Village of Valemount. Bring your business idea to this movein-ready space. Total of 365 sq. ft. consists of office with sink and separate waiting room. Located in a professional building. Call 778-389-5100 or email dmohrsen@telus.net to view. DEC 13

traiLer FOr SaLe

Mobile Home: Hartman’s Trailer Park 2-Bedroom with addition, wood stove and oil heat. Rental purchase optional. Asking $16,000 OBO or $500 monthly rent. Call Doug 250-566-4240 GTS NOV 15 Mobile Home: Hartman’s Trailer Park 2 bedrooms, new roof, bathroom, windows, and carpet. Pellet Stove and propane furnace. $20,000 OBO Call Nathan 250-566-5040. GTS JUNE 20

cOmmerciaL prOpertY FOr SaLe FOR SALE: Commercial & Residential property on 5th Ave. in Valemount. Front half leased to coffee and gift shop. Back half is a 4 bedroom, 3 bath apartment. For more information call 250566-4532. JAN 3

heLp wanted TAXI DRIVER WANTED, Class 1-2-4 with medical certificate, 10 years plus driving experience, area McBride or Valemount. Call 250-566-8294 (TAXI)

rentaLS

Rental listings Valemount Real estate # 002-2

Comfortable family home on fenced corner lot. 3 Bdrms + office, 2 full baths. Open concept living space with wood finishes. Oil furnace + wood stove. Pet ok. $900.

#19

Updated trailer on fenced lot w/large shed.

900 sq. feet - 2 bdrm + small office, 1 bath w/ jetted tub. Oil furnace/electric fireplace. Pet ok, no smoking. $715.

#024

Mtnview Apts. No smoking, no pets, clean and quiet building. 1 Bedroom - $475, 2 Bedroom-$575, Bachelor -$375

#026

7th Avenue 4-Plex. Very spacious & bright suites - 1000 sq. feet! No pets, non-smoking building. Furnished 2 bdrm w/laundry - $650.

Photos and details at

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

16

the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

“BORROWED DOWN PAYMENT MORTGAGES”

Homeward Mortgage Group Ltd.

MORTGAGES

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Debra Parker AMP Mortgage Broker Looking out for your best interest.® P: 250-426-8211 ext 375 Cell: 250-421-7600 E: debra_parker@centum.ca

Returning Flow Acupuncture Wednesdays & Fridays in Valemount Thursdays in McBride

McBride, B.C. Redi-Mix Concrete • Aggregates • Concrete Blocks Concrete Form Rental • Gravel Truck Excavator & Bobcat • Site Preparation

Myron Baer 250-968-4492 • Cell 250-569-7245

Micah Yoder R.Ac. Registered Acupuncturist

PHONE 250-566-1782

Inspection Facility, Licensed Automotive & Heavy Duty Techs.

•

945 HWY 5 N, VALEMOUNT, B.C. 250-566-8403

* Large SeLection of BearingS & V-BeLtS in Stock * 100 Mountain View Road at Hwy.16, McBRide SHop pHone: 250 569-0075

HAUGK HOME DESIGNS & RENOVATIONS

TRAVIS’ AUTOMOBILE SERVICE We specialize in: Diesel Engine Repair, 4x4 Repair, Snowmobiles, & Misc. Repairs Welding • Lathe Work • Tire Sales

• Automotive & Agricultural Tires • Agricultural Parts & Service • Small Engine Parts & Service • Full Line of Quality Lubricants & Filters

Licenced Journeyman with over 30 years experience

David Craig 250.566.4742 or cell 250.566.1089 email mhystad@telus.net

• Kitchen • Bath • Doors • Windows • Cabinets • Floors • Tiles • Painting • Vinyl Decking and more Call Andreas 250-569-0004 c: 250-981-0457 / ahaugk@telus.net

TREKS & TRAVEL Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in you sails.

EXPLORE . DREAM . DISCOVER . TRAVEL ~ MARK TWAIN

chris@stolfalaw.ca

Call Patricia to make your travel plans a reality.

780-852-5473 (office) or email at info@jaspertreksntravel.com

Howard & McBride Funeral Homes

HINTON OPTOMETRY CLINIC Dr. Gary Watson, Dr. Monika Braun & Dr. Jennifer Goettling

Rex’s Recycling Tuesday - Wednesday 1 - 4pm Thursday - Friday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Closed - Sunday & Monday

Now offering full refund on all beer bottles and cans.

Pickups can be arranged - Call Liz or Kim Everard:

250•566•9111

R e d u C e - R e u S e - R e C yC l e

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& Redi Mix ConCRete General Contractor: residential & commercial Excavation: clearing, driveways & septic systems Concrete: redi mix concrete, finish work, stamps, forming • Gravel sales

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westridge

plumbing & heating Greg McNee, Insured and Reliable Seniors: Show this ad and receive a 10% discount

cell: 250-566-1687

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SandS diStribution Ltd

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

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& GIGGLES

Eyewear & sunglasses also available at: Rocky Mountain Eye Wear • Parks West Mall • 780-865-3011

Sandra Birks 780-852-3890

NAPA Automotive Parts & Repairs

---------------------------------

FOR APPOINTMENTS CALL 1-800-323-9891

“Proudly Serving the Community since 1921”

Locally owned and operated

JUST FOR SHIRTS

OPTOMETRISTS

158 Athabasca Avenue, Hinton Office Hours: Mon., Tues., & Wed. 8 am - 5 pm Thurs. 9 am - 6 pm; Fri. 8 am - 4 pm

Solar, Wind • and Micro Hydro Electric Systems www.rockymountainsolar.ca 250-968-4490

SERVING JASPER & THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION

Located behind Valemount Pines Golf Course P 250-566-9096 C 250-612-2820 E wendy@sewhot.ca

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

17

Christmas time poses many dangers to pets

By BIRGIT STUTZ Contributor

Christmas is upon us. The tree is put up and beautifully decorated, Christmas decorations adorn the home inside and out, the mistletoes are hung, the poinsettia is centred on the dining room table, and the smell of freshly baked cookies and gingerbread fills the entire house.

However, did you know that many of the plants popular at Christmas time are actually toxic for our pets? Toxicity ranges from mild to severe, and how sick your pet may become depends on the amount of plant consumed as well as the pet’s size. Puppies and kittens are at greatest risk for plant poisoning due to their natural curiosity and small size. If only small amounts of plant material are ingested, your pet may only suffer from mild gastrointestinal upset, however, if your cat or dog eats a large amount of plant material, it may lead to excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate and increased respiratory rate. In severe cases, the pet may experience seizures, go into shock, coma or even die. So it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with poisonous holiday plants before you decide to bring one into your home.

Most of us hang mistletoe high enough so it is out of reach of our pets. While mistletoe poisoning is rare, it does occur if a pet eats a large amount of the berries. If the pet only

consumes a small amount of the berries, it may only suffer with a stomach upset. Symptoms of mistletoe poisoning may include excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, more frequent urination, as well as an increased heart rate and respiratory rate. In severe cases, the pet may experience seizures, collapse, go into shock, and possibly death if left untreated.

The red berries on the holly plant can be poisonous if a pet consumes the berries in large amounts. If your pet only consumes small amounts of the berries, you may not see any symptoms of poisoning. If ingested, most dogs and cats smack their lips, drool and shake their heads excessively due to the mechanical injury from the spiny leaves. Holly berry poisoning can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhea. If your pet consumes large amounts, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance will be a concern as well. In severe cases, tremors or seizures may be seen, followed by coma and death.

Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are only mildly toxic to pets, if at all. However, keeping poinsettias out of the reach of your pets is nevertheless a good idea. The milky white sap of poinsettias is considered to be mildly toxic and can cause oral irritation if consumed by your pet. Oral irritation will be noticeable due to the animal shaking its head, excess salivating, or pawing at the head and mouth.

Poinsettia may also cause mild signs of gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, drooling, and in rare cases diarrhea, but not

death. Some pets may experience dermal irritation, including redness, swelling, and itchiness, if their skin is exposed to the sap. If your pet has been exposed to poinsettia, immediately wash the sap off to stop further irritation.

Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic. The oils of the fir tree can be irritating to the mouth and stomach and cause excessive drooling or vomiting. While the needles aren’t easily digested, if your pet does swallow them, the needles could cause gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, gastrointestinal obstruction or even punctures.

It is advisable to contact your veterinarian immediately no matter the amount of plant matter your pet has consumed.

Intravenous fluids may be needed to prevent dehydration and correct any electrolyte imbalance. Never induce vomiting unless advised to do so by your veterinarian as it can do more damage to the esophagus. Also, never induce vomiting on an animal that is in distress (trouble breathing, fast or slow heart rate, seizing, or unconscious).

There are a variety of plants that are toxic to pets, so keep that in mind if you see your pet nibbling on any household plants. If you are unsure about the toxicity of a plant, visit www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/education/pet-poisonsand-toxins/toxic-plants-for-pets.aspx.

Monitor your pet’s interest in eating plants and place plants out of reach of pets. As well, check the plants for any signs of chewing or missing leaves.

Happy holidays!

STOCK PHOTO

Mistletoe (left), holly (centre) and pointsettia are all poisonous if eaten.

JASPER PARK FUNERAL SERVICES FOOTHILLS CREMATORIUM part of Edson Funeral Home Ltd.

Foothills Memorial Chapel Represented by

H. A. (Sandy) ROBINSON 780-852-4527 If no answer phone: 780-852-3699 P.O. Box 6358, Edson, Alberta T7E 1T8 “Semper Fidelis” www.edsonfuneralhome.com edfun@telusplanet.net

C O N S U LTA N T S I N C .

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Toll-free: 1-888-852-5929 Before you click buy me, call me!

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Professional Teeth Cleaning - All Ages Zoom Whitening, Tooth Gems & other Preventive Treatments Registered Dental Hygienist Servicing Valemount, McBride, Blue River & Jasper

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18

the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

Generous donations help support VARDA

By DANIEL BETTS Editor

Thanks to a generous donation from Martin Motor Sports of Edmonton, the Valemount Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA) Snow Host Team will be motoring over snowmobile trails on a brand new 2013 Summit XM snowmobile.

According to Curtis Pawliuk, VARDA general manager, the Snow Host program has been around since 2004. Snowmobile hosts proved direct, on the trail, contact and information to snowmobile users with the intent of influencing environmentally friendly safe riding behaviours while they perform maintenance duties, snow and weather observations and boundary patrols within the managed snowmobile areas. They share general information on mountain safety, responsible riding practices and environmental stewardship and promote understanding and awareness of VARDA and the managed snowmobile areas.

Pawliuk notes that the Host program has had some great support over the years from such organizations as CMH Heli-Skiing and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG).

“We could not operate this program without the great support we receive,” said Pawliuk.

“CMH Heli-Skiing has been a long-time supporter of VARDA’s Host Program for many years, providing highly quality Arcteryx uniforms for us and contributing with a substantial cash donation annually.”

Pawliuk noted that the RDFFG, a regular supporter, contributes to the wages of the Snow Host Team.

“Martin Motor Sports joined these great groups by providing a 2013 Summit XM snowmobile for us to use during our weekend field work,” said Pawliuk. “This is very exciting and a relationship we have been working on for some time. Having this type of support for our programs is crucial to our successful operation and we are extremely grateful to all of the VARDA sponsoring businesses.”

Pawliuk invites any interested party or individual to see a complete listing of all the VARDA sponsors by checking out the sponsor section on the VARDA website at www. valemountrecdevelopment.com

SUBMITTED PHOTO

VARDAʼs Snow Host Team members, Will Chitty and Curtis Pawliuk, posing in their Arcteryx gear donated by CMH, and a 2013 Summit XMs from Martin Motor Sports of Edmonton.

Brad Strang – Blue Mountain Rush

By ASTRID FRAZIER Contributor

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY BRAD STRANG

Above: Brad Strang sits beneath one of his chainsaw wood carvings in McBride.

Right: Brad Strang shows off some of his many instruments in his McBride home.

Below: Brad Strangʼs CD cover for his new album.

McBride, B.C. and the Robson Valley is very fortunate to have so many talented and skilled artists who reside here and give us all the opportunity to enjoy their work. One of the newer residents to the valley is Brad Strang and he has a lot to offer when it comes to talent. Brad and his wife Debbie moved here a year ago from Quesnel, B.C. Brad recently recorded a CD at his home entitled Blue Mountain Rush, which includes the singing talents of Donna Christiansen of Quesnel, and local McBride singer Cassidy Alan.

The title, Strang says, is a name that he had created and has secretly guarded for many years. He has always thought that if he ever recorded a CD or started a band, Blue Mountain Rush would be the perfect name. Brad says it probably originated from his appreciation for rocky-topped mountains and from being raised on a raspberry farm surrounded by mountains in Yarrow, B.C. When he and his wife moved to the Robson Valley, Blue Mountain Rush (trademark pending) seemed the perfect name for his first CD. Music has been a hobby of Strang’s since childhood. He is a self-taught guitarist from age 15. Some people told him he should give it up, but when Brad discovered tablature (a method of illustrated finger placement versus a note to be sounded) he started to improve. When Strang was in his 20s, he started writing songs and recording them on a 4-track and many of the songs on his new CD were arranged on it. To record his CD he used an antiquated 12-track he bought in his late 40’s.

Strang owns and plays many instruments, including acoustic, electric, slide, and bass guitars, banjo, harmonicas and a little bit

of violin, viola, cello, mandolin, mountain dulcimer, and jews harp.

Strang plays all the instruments on his CD and sings some of the songs himself. Brad says he likes to write generically so that people of all walks can enjoy his music. He finds the time it takes for lyric writing very unpredictable. The song Heaven was written in minutes, where Seasons took many months to write. Brad says he has been privileged to watch both of those songs bring tears to people’s eyes, and he considers himself very fortunate to have Donna Christiansen and Cassidy Alan sing those songs.

Another hobby Strang enjoys is chainsaw carving, which he started when he was approaching retirement in 2008. Brad had a chainsaw that he didn’t know how to use and a stump in his backyard. He says he learned by looking up carving on the internet and in books. A great learning experience for him was attending the Chetwynd chainsaw carving competition, where he spoke with and watched expert carvers. For the first-two-and-ahalf years he produced many “fancy

pieces of firewood,” but eventually he says the artistry came through.

Brad’s carvings consist of caricatures of bears, raptors, people and horses. As time goes by, he strives to create more realistic pieces.

He mainly uses spruce because it highlights stain color the best, but since moving to the Robson Valley he has come to enjoy the natural grain of cedar. Strang says that retirement has allowed him the privilege to pursue his hobbies of music and chainsaw carving. Last summer his chainsaw carvings provided him with the funds necessary to upgrade his drum machine and microphones, which then helped him decide to record his CD. Brad’s CD, Blue Mountain Rush can be purchased at the Whistle Stop Gallery in McBrideand on its website at www.whistlestopgallery.org. Some of his carvings can be found at the gallery and in many other businesses in McBride. Brad can be reached at either bstrangcarving@gmail.com or bluemountainrush@gmail.com.

Thursday, december 27, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

19

consideration of other skiers, Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association (YORA) has recommended a few courtesies. Dogs are not permitted on the Jackman Flats ski-tracks. Herringbone to the side of the groomed track on up-hills, side step or snowplough to the side of the groomed track on downhills. Do not walk or snowshoe on the groomed track. When stopping for any reason, step to the side of the trail. You can help the tracks stay in good condition by being courteous.

Each session of track setting costs the club a minimum of $100, so please pay your membership or contribute to YORA at the Caribou Grill. Cooler conditions, below zero degrees will generally be found in the mornings. Afternoon temperatures tend to be above zero, which makes for tough waxing.

By DONALDA BEESON Contributor

McBride featured on Global News Small Town B.C. Congratulations to McBride who was featured on Global News Sunday morning, on Feature Small Town BC! Well done to all the photographers whose work was featured; you make McBride look GOOD! A Horse Never Lies Check out the video for A Horse Never Lies at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=n9u6NpFE0b8, a new song both written and performed by Valemount local, Michelle Burstrom, recorded at Cardinal Ranch, B.C., starring JD Cardinal.

Also, be sure to check out Michelle Burstrom’s website at www.horseneverlies.com.

You can buy the song on iTunes or CD Baby.

Is a weekly Community Bus to Jasper an option?

Dallas Bullock wants to know how many people would be interested in taking the community bus to Jasper once a week for either a movie, a pool visit or a trip to the ski hill. She would like you to be specific with what your choice would be and if you would be willing to pay $12 to $15 for the bus ride to get there and back. Bullock says that nothing is set in stone, and they are still researching. You can respond to her post on the Valemount Discussion Board on Facebook or send her a personal message on Facebook.

It’s cross-country ski time!

Get your skis out; Jackman Flats has been set with groomed ski tracks! In

Recreational hockey in Valemount There is a new Facebook page to support recreational hockey in Valemount.

Join the page and stay in the loop about upcoming ice times at www.facebook. com/ValemountRecHockey. They are hoping to get more players out, especially on co-ed night on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Support the Valemount Preschool and Daycare Many parents rely on the Valemount Children’s Activity Society (VCAS) and its staff to care for their children every week. One such parent, Stefanie Han, is worried that as the provincial and federal government continue to cut subsidy and grants for daycares and preschools, it affects local enrollment, which in turn affects their earning ability and ultimate ability to stay open. She asks, “What would this town look like without a preschool/daycare?” What options would parents have?

What would kindergarten classes look like without the benefits of daycare and preschool; e.g. a focus on developing their fine motor skills, learning to be polite, to take turns, to share, and yes, even learn problem resolution. Valemount needs a licensed, insured preschool and daycare with CPR trained ECE staff. You are encourage to sign the VCAS petition at IGA, Library, or VCAS. 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 at 250-566-4425. Please note that all items for publication on the Thursday issue must be in by the previous Friday.

McBride Christmas Skate Carnival

ALLAN FrEDEriCk phOtOS

On thursday, Dec. 20 the McBride Skate Club put on an entertaining show for family and residents.

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The Valley Sentinel, Robson Valley Region •

ThuRsday, deCeMbeR 27, 2012