Volume 27, Issue 39 by The Valley Sentinel

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WEDNESDAY September 26, 2012 $1.16 Plus HST

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SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY SINCE 1986

THE VALLEY

2012 CCNA

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

3 DAY WEATHER FORECAST

High: 19°C Low: -1°C

High: 21°C Low: 4°C

ON TOUR

High: 14°C Low: 8°C

CBT AGM - PAGE 3

JASPER TRAMWAY - PAGE 8

“Model A Fords arrive in McBride”

MOVIE MAKING - PAGE 9 CLASSIFIED ADS - PAGE 12 NEW AT THE SENTINEL - PAGE 13

The Model A Ford Touring Club arrived on Thursday, Sept. 20, on a beautiful sunny cool day for travelling. The group of approximately 15 vehicles spent the late morning and early afternoon in McBride. Some vehicles from the Valemount area arrived first before a large group from Prince George, which had been travelling through B. C.. In an interview with one of the participants, who was from Hawaii, they revealed their vehicle, a 1930 Ford Model A truck, was shipped from Honolulu to Tacoma, Washington where the tour began for them. In past years, the Model A Club has travelled throughout New Zealand, Europe and Alaska with their vehicles. The participants from Ontario, Texas, Hawaii, Nevada, Colorado and Michigan enjoyed the community and the interest shown in their vehicles while they stopped for lunch and visited with the residents. Photo by Allan Frederick

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2 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

UPFront

Glacier resort formal proposal presented to government and First Nations Daniel Betts Editor

nother important milestone toward a yearround resort near Valemount, B.C. has been reached. The Tourism and Resort Operations Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources Operations, is currently reviewing a 202 page document entitled, Formal Proposal for a Glacier Tourism Destination centred on Mt. Arthur Meighen near Valemount, British Columbia. Prepared by Pheidias Project Management Corporation (PPMC), and Oberti Resort Design for Valemount Glacier Destinations Ltd.(VGD), the document illustrates the proponent’s design concept in greater depth than the Expression of Interest, which was presented at the beginning of the year. The formal proposal has not been publically released, but has been circulated amongst interested parties, including the Valemount Ski Society and The Valley Sentinel. Local Government and First Nations were also given advanced copies for their review. According to Tommaso Oberti, speaking on behalf of PPMC to The Valley Sentinel, the resort operations branch does not have a firm timeline, however he believes the branch will allow up to 45 days to receive any interagency comments. “Preliminary feedback we’ve received is positive and we’re hoping they will be able to complete their review and proceed to the interim agreement in the next 50-60 days,” said Oberti. Oberti noted that formal proposals are not released to the public because of the possibility

competing groups may conceivably “appropriate” their work at a later date, should government reject or delay a particular proposal. While VGD was awarded sole proponent status by letter, a confirmed signed agreement won’t exist until the interim agreement is finalized. Oberti explained the formal proposal will be released to the public when proofreading is completed, and with the expectation the prov-

“Normally, public input does not begin until the project enters the master plan stage.” - Tommaso Oberti on a formal proposal being presented to governments and First Nations. ince will act in good faith to honour VGD’s recognition as sole proponent. According to Oberti, often government and First Nations will make comments during the process that will result in modifications to the formal proposal. As a courtesy to the public, the formal proposal may be made available on a project website, which is in the works, following required modifications, which could happen in

as soon as 20 days. “Normally, formal public input does not begin until the project enters the Master Plan Stage,” said Oberti. The Master Plan Stage occurs after the Tourism and Resort Operations Branch staff accepts the formal proposal and an interim agreement is signed with the province. The Master Plan stage would include the development of detailed plans, studies and various rounds of public input. The concepts contained within the formal proposal are general and preliminary in nature. “We haven’t arrived at the point in the process where we engage the public on the details of the project and we haven’t completed the studies to support the preliminary planning,” explained Oberti. He believes in-depth discussion on details would not be particularly productive or appropriate at this particular stage. Oberti says that while they have shared ideas and concepts, and have sought the input and support of locals in creating a general concept and design, further dialogue, particularly with directly affected stakeholders, is still desired, but at the appropriate time and in a pragmatic way.

PUBLIC NOTICE

RECALL AND INITIATIVE ACT

This notice is published pursuant to section 4 of the Recall and Initiative Act. Approval in principle has been granted on an application for an initiative petition. The petition will be issued to proponent Dana Larsen on Monday, November 19, 2012 and signature sheets must be submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer by Monday, February 18, 2013. The Title of the Initiative is: An initiative to amend the Police Act. Summary of Initiative: The initiative draft Bill entitled, “Sensible Policing Act” proposes to amend the Police Act to no longer use provincial police resources on the enforcement of current laws in relation to simple possession and use of cannabis by adults. The draft law would prohibit the use of provincial police resources for this purpose, would require police to report in detail to the Minister of Justice any actual use of resources for this purpose and why it was necessary, and require the Minister to publish that report. The Bill also proposes that the Province would call upon the Federal Government to repeal the federal prohibition on cannabis, or give British Columbia an exemption, such that British Columbia is able to tax and regulate cannabis similar to the regulation of alcohol and tobacco. As well it proposes that British Columbia shall establish a Provincial Commission to study the means and requirements necessary for the province to establish a legal and regulated model for the production and use of cannabis by adults. Last, the Bill would make nonlawful possession and use of cannabis by minors an offence similar to possession and use of alcohol.

Initiative Advertising: Individuals or organizations who sponsor initiative advertising, other than the proponent and registered opponents, must register with the Chief Electoral Officer before they conduct or publish initiative advertising. Registration applications are available from Elections BC. Who May Sign the Petition: Registered voters as of Monday, November 19, 2012 may sign the initiative petition. Individuals may only sign the petition once, and must sign the petition sheet for the electoral district in which they are registered at the time of signing. Signed petitions are available for public inspection. For More Information: The initiative application and draft Bill are available for public inspection on the Elections BC website and at the Elections BC office at the address below. Location: Suite 100 – 1112 Fort Street, Victoria, B.C Mailing Address: PO Box 9275 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9J6 Phone: Toll-free: Fax: Email: Website:

250-387-5305 1-800-661-8683 250-387-3578 electionsbc@elections.bc.ca www.elections.bc.ca

Opponent Registration: Individuals or organizations who intend to incur expenses as opponents must apply for registration with the Chief Electoral Officer by Monday, October 22, 2012. Registration applications for opponents are available from Elections BC.

www.elections.bc.ca / 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 6 1 - 8 6 8 3

“Indian summer”

Elk in rut, ripe blueberries, fresh snowfall on the mountain peaks, migratory birds and fall colours in their glory show themselves briefly as autumn presented itself this week. Photos by Andrea Scholz

COMMUNITY

Columbia Basin Trust AGM & community BBQ

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 3

hold their meetings in a different part of the region each year, and he looks forward to the next visit to Valemount in two or three years’ time. Valemount Old-timers closed out the evening with their ever popular toe tapping music.

Marie Birkbeck CONTRIBUTOR

pproximately 25 Valemount residents, a record number according to Garry Merkel, Chair of Columbia Basin Trust Board of Directors, were in attendance at the CBT AGM on Friday, Sept. 21. After introductions around the room, Merkel went on to inform us that even though Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is a Crown Corporation it is not an agent of the crown and is accountable to the people of the communities which it serves. The mission of CBT is to support the efforts of the people of the basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations. CBT has two core values: 1. Invest capital and manage the assets; and 2. Spend the income earned from investments to deliver benefits to the basin. The Statement of Policies and Procedures (SIPP) details three general categories of investments that CBT will pursue; power projects, private placements, and Market Securities. Income earned from the investment programs is delivered back into the communities in the basin through resources, investments, community, social, economics, environment, water, and youth programs. CBT does not make decisions for the people, but rather with the people. President and Chief Executive Officer Neil Muth briefly addressed the audience and presented the highlights of the financial statement for the past year. CBT continues to show healthy growth, which will provide the basin communities with a legacy for years to come. Immediately following the meeting from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. was the free hamburger BBQ downtown adjacent to The Gathering Tree. It is estimated that approximately 200 people came out to enjoy the meal supplied by CBT. Our community liaison Lynda Lafleur hosted the display of information leaflets, free stuff and door prizes inside the empty building owned by Stuart Tait. Doreen Beck and her harp provided background music while the crowd dined. Mayor Andru McCracken addressed those in attendance, thanking everyone for coming out to the meeting and the supper, and to welcome the CBT Board of Directors to Valemount. For many of them, this was their first trip to the valley. While in town they were able to make use of the CBT funded community bus and have a guided tour of the area. Chair Garry Merkel also took a few minutes to address attendees and acknowledge the local representation on CBT; Mayor McCracken, board member since May 2012, Bill Kruisselbrink, past board member and now a member of the Environment Advisory Committee, Mona Gradsal past board member, and Jeannette Townsend, also a past board member and one of the founding members of the Columbia River Treaty that directed the formation of CBT. According to Merkel the Columbia Basin is a large area, which is why they

“Community BBQ”

After the CBT AGM on Sept. 21, CBT hosting a community barbecue drawing a large crowd that enjoyed the hamburgers and glorious weather. Photos courtesy of CBT

Valemount Learning Centre

Timber Supply Committee Report feedback Allan Frederick STAFF WRITER

250-566-4601

from the local economic point of view, showing jobs and recreational site development to the valley as a whole with many potential benefits in the area, both directly and indirectly. The Special Committee recommends that the province not consider the amalgamation of timber supply areas. Von der Gonna indicated that this was a win for the valley as it helps prevent an accelerated cut locally to offset shortages in the Prince George Timber Supply Area (PG TSA). The report indicated any conversion of volume based tenures to area based tenure should only happen after full community consultation. In an interview with Shane Bressette, General Manager of the Valemount Community Forest and a recently appointed director to the BCCFA in July this year, he indicated that he was happy with the recommendations put forward by the special committee but is concerned as to the reaction timing of the government. Bressette commented that there was no clear process for the next step to follow through on the recommendations put forward by the special committee.

ocal timber suppliers read, with interest, a recent report made by a special government committee. The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Special Committee on Timber Supply released their report in August 2012 after travelling through the province in June and July conducting public hearings in 15 central interior communities, including Valemount and McBride and conducting two on-site visits. They also accepted written submissions during this time. The context of the report on forest management entitled, “Growing Fibre, Growing Value” was focused on six areas; Preserving the Integrity of B.C. Sustainable Forest Management System, Forest Practices Considerations, other Annual Allowable Cut (AAC) related issues, Forest Tenure Issues and Interests, and finally Burns Lake specific issues. In an interview with Marc von der Gonna, General Manager of the McBride Community Forest Corporation (MCFC) he felt that the Special Committee heard in many cases similar positive messages on the topics of Land and Resources Management Plans (LRMPs), the high environmental standards and the administrative boundaries that are now exercised. Von der Gonna felt that the report hit on a common theme that the provincial government should increase their spending on gathering inventory information and reforesting areas. According to von der Gonna, who also sits on the B.C. Community Forest Association (BCCFA) as vice president, both MCFC and BCCFA view expansion of existProudly ing community forests and the creation of new comServing Hwy 5 munity forests as a priority that needs be explored. According to the report, the government’s position Since 1999 tage is that there is a lack of available volume for these r a C le t Ly t requests. The committee also recommended that Servicing All Points Hwy. 5, Kamloops to decisions surrounding the setting of AAC should Valemount. Hot Shot Flat Deck & Courier Units be left to the “Chief Forester” to act in a responsible manner and not always be made by politicians. 1-877-372-1182 Von der Gonna indicated that expansion of the Depot at Infinity Office - 250-566-4225 MCFC in the Robson Valley should be looked at

Tete Jaune

Valemount

Avola Clearwater

Bridge Lake

Barriere

Updated September 26, 2012 Updated Sept. 26, 2012

                

Bartender Cook/Chef Front Desk Housekeepers Housekeeping Runner Lounge Server/Bartender Maintenance Person Paramedic/EMR Public Area Cleaner Red Cross Swimming Instructor Servers/Bartenders Short Order Cook Skid Steer/Tractor/ Excavator Person Specialty Cook (International Cuisine) Taxi Driver Traffic Control Person Various positions for Valemount’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

Front desk staff can give you We are here to help. Please detailed information about each of these call or drop in. postings, including infoFor on more how to submit your application for jobs these or job information on these . opportunities other employment assistance

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

Albreda

LOCALJOB JOB LOCAL POSTINGS POSTINGS

Blue River

Vavenby

Valemount Learning Centre www.valemountlearningcentre.org

Box 789 Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 250-566-4601

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Kamloops Local Courier / Hot Shot Service

The Employment Program of British Columbia Employment of British Columbiaof is funded by theand Government isThefunded byProgram the Government Canada of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. the Province of British Columbia.

4 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

OPINION

Serving the Robson Valley since 1986

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

» VIEWPOINT

» DAVE MARCHANT

Daniel Betts Editor@thEVallEySEntinEl.com

Confidence of experience

ine months ago I remember sitting in the Village of Valemount council chambers during the inaugural meeting of the new mayor and council. It was filled with excited residents who all hoped that the village was about to turn a corner. I had the feeling everyone in that room had some very high expectations for the new mayor and council. I remember a similar sense around the village. Someone told me they felt like the village had received a breath of fresh air. Neither then nor nine months later, am I sure what exactly everyone was expecting. I suppose local government politics, and the machine that drives it, is somewhat of a mystery to most people. Perhaps, people had a subconscious belief that past mayors and councils were hiding or keeping to themselves the means to pull the village out of its quandary. Perhaps, they believed past mayors and council lacked the enthusiasm to accomplish the task effectively; hence the drastic change in leadership. Certainly, voters had been convinced that experience was not a pre-requisite for the village office. Perhaps current mayor and council held this belief themselves before taking office. It wasn’t long after taking office that most of the newly elected village officials were stating the job was much different than they imagined. Being new to politics, let alone the postings they had accepted, a learning curve was expected by most residents, which is why many are still questioning the wisdom of dismissing their most knowledgeable village staff member; someone who could have used his experience to make that curve much less steep. The cost of this decision still remains a mystery, both financially and politically. Residents want more open discussion and consultation. They expect representation at public hearings or more input into public projects, not council deciding what is best for the village amongst themselves. When asked for explanations, residents expect council to make time for them, not simply dismiss requests with the blunt assertion that decisions are final. Why? Because their choices are not backed by experience, and this creates uncertainty. Lack of confidence comes from a lack of experience, which is now noticeably missing in the village office. The only way to alleviate this uncertainty is to open the doors, pull up the blinds, open the books and invite people in to see for themselves what is going on, and explain every decision. If this is not feasible, then council needs

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012

We publish every Wednesday. Advertising booking deadline is Friday at 5 p.m.

Local parent alarmed by “sex ed” class Dear Editor: Yesterday my 15-year-old daughter attended a “sex ed.” class at McBride Secondary. During the class, the ‘children’ (one as young as 12) were instructed that ‘saran wrap’ could be used for oral sex and could be combined with chocolate sauce and whipping cream. I do not believe that is going to reduce the threat of AIDS, STD’s or reduce teen pregnancy. That should never have been taught to a group of high school students. I am curious as to who approved this curriculum... I did voice my concerns to the school, the school board and the MLA. I am appalled that these things are being taught to our children especially without our consent. To my knowledge, the instructor continued her teachings, even after parents called with their concerns. I was also told the instructor comes “highly recommended and will be welcomed back in future years.” I am all for teaching our children about the threat of AIDS, STD’s, teen pregnancy and how to protect themselves. I do not see how “saran wrap, chocolate sauce and whipping cream” will teach them these things. My child will never be attending a “sex ed.” class in McBride again.

dAniel BettS

editor editor@thevalleysentinel.com

deAnnA Mickelow

sales and office assistant ads@thevalleysentinel.com oFFice: drop Box: MAin: eMAil:

Editor’s Note: The Valley Sentinel spoke with Brian Pepper, superintendent of schools for School District No. 57, about this incident. Pepper could not speak to the exact the nature of the discussion, having not attended, however he believes the incident in question occurred following a presentation by a “health professional,” and likely occurred during the discussion portion of the class. “Kids ask questions,” Pepper explained. Health professionals have an obligation to answer questions as accurately as possible. “Anytime you talk about sexual activity it sometimes brings up other issues.” Taken out of context, portions of such a discussion could certainly sound alarming. Pepper is certain Saran Wrap is not part of the curriculum, however in answering a difficult question the health professional would tend to steer the class toward the healthiest choices in a meaningful way. “Schools today offer the opportunity for kids to ask questions and with so much information available to kids today, many kinds of questions are asked in the school setting,” said Pepper.

Sharon Reichert – McBride, B.C.

Publisher Production Manager publisher@thevalleysentinel.com

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substituted with something just as powerful, such as transparency, if mayor and council want to have the approval of those they mean to represent.

» MAILBAG

AndreA Scholz

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to start making choices that honour the experience and knowledge available around them. Having experience is not always a prerequisite for success, but their lack of experience must be

SylviA GriGAt coPy editing

AllAn Frederick

corresPondent and office adMin

contriButorS: birgit stutz, donalda beeson, aMber stayer, laura Johnson, Marie birkbeck, & astrid frazier

1012 Commercial Drive, Box 688, Valemount, British Columbia, V0E 2Z0 McBride Stedman’s, 377 Main St., McBride, British Columbia 250.566.4425 toll Free: 1.800.226.2129 FAx: 250.566.4528 ads@thevalleysentinel.com weB: www.thevalleysentinel.com

All material published in The Valley Sentinel; editorial content, photographs and advertising, is copyright to The Valley Sentinel and may not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the express permission of the Publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing costs.

Member CCNA

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 5

GOVERNMENT The MP Report The Start of a New Fall Session Bob Zimmer MP PRINCE GEORGE - PEACE RIVER

s the weather gets cooler and the leaves begin to change, I am amazed at how quickly the summer has come to an end. Looking back, it was an extremely productive summer for me. I had the opportunity to meet with many constituents and take part in a number of community events. A few of the highlights included visits to the riding from the Hon. Lynne Yelich, Minister of State (Western Economic Diversification), the Hon. Tim Uppal, Minister of State (Democratic Reform) and the Hon. Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) and celebrating the official opening of the markets for Western grain farmers on Aug. 1 with some of our local grain growers. Now the time has come for Parliament to resume sitting and I am looking forward to another busy session. To begin, I am honoured to have recently been appointed to the Standing Committee for Veterans Affairs. I have always had the utmost respect for those willing to risk everything in the name of freedom and I take great pride in being able to represent their interests with this new challenge. I will also continue to sit on the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food. With regards to our Conservative Government’s plans in the weeks and

months ahead, our top priority remains creating jobs, growth and longterm prosperity. We all know that the global economy remains fragile – especially in the United States and Europe – and despite our economic strength, Canada is not immune to these global challenges. That is why our Conservative Government will continue to work hard to keep Canada’s economy growing, while keeping taxes low and returning to balanced budgets. This fall, the cornerstone of our Government’s work in the House of Commons will be the continued implementation of important legislative items from the Economic Action Plan 2012. This includes moving forward on changes to EI special benefits to ensure the EI program is there for families in times of need and implementing the Canada-Panama Free Trade Agreement. This agreement represents part of our Government’s commitment to creating jobs in Canada by increasing our exports. In addition to these important economic items, our Conservative Government will move forward on legislation to protect our communities and stand up for the rights of victims. This will include legislation that will: • Remove foreign criminals who commit violent crimes in Canada; • Double the victims surcharge and make it mandatory; • Improve accountability within the RCMP; and • Combat terrorism. As we move forward in this fall session of Parliament, hardworking Canadian families like yours can continue to count on our Conservative Government to focus on the priorities that matter most to you, while respecting our commitments and getting things done. And as always, if you would like to get in touch with me, please feel free to contact my office in Fort St. John at (250) 787 1194, Prince George at (250) 561 7982, or Ottawa at (613) 947 4524.

Valemount resident presents to boundary commission trading area, and is within the CBC northern programming area. Valemount remains in the Prince George telephone directory despite havlocal Valemount, B.C., resident is making his ing moved to the Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo opinion known. electoral riding. The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission Lastly the Member of Parliament’s constituency was in Prince George on Monday, Sept. 17. Local office in Prince George is in much closer proximresident, John Grogan attended and presented ity to Valemount and would likely result in more during the public hearing. frequent visits by the elected Member of Parlia“I attended in person to show my resolve, to an- ment. The Kootenay-Columbia riding has only swer any questions from the commission and to one constituency office, which is located in Cranshow a level of respect for their work,” said Gro- brook. gan in an email to The Valley Sentinel. Representatives for the Village of Valemount are In his written presentation to planning to attend, via videoconthe commission Grogan, a 35ference, the Oct. 11 boundary year resident, stated his concern commission public hearing to with the resolution of the Valebe held in Kamloops, to explain “This decision was made mount mayor and council to their rationale. In earlier staterecommend redrawing the elec- without public consultation.” ments, council has expressed - John Grogan on toral map putting Valemount their belief that aligning with the Valemount’s mayor and and area within the Columbiamore tourism-based economies Kootenay electoral district. of the Kootenays would be bencouncil recommendation “This decision was made witheficial to Valemount. to move to the Kootenayout public consultation, and it is While the deadline for submisColumbia electoral district. sion of notice to appear before my hope that they will withdraw from that position and Valethe commission has passed, the mount will be returned to Prince public is still welcome to attend George electoral district,” stated the public hearings. Grogan in his written statement. The commission is schedGrogan cited the fact that since moving to Ka- uled to complete their report no later than Dec. mloops-Thompson-Cariboo, Valemount has not 21, although a two-month extension could be had an All Candidates Forum, which he believes granted. The draft representation order, which is an indicator of a less than healthy democratic describes the electoral districts established by process. the commission, will not be sent to the desigGrogan also believes not sharing federal repre- nated Minister until September 2013. The new sentation would create a wedge between neigh- boundaries would not be applied until the next bouring communities, “further widening mutual general election, which would not occur until economic opportunity objectives.” April 2014 at the earliest. He also notes Valemount is in the Prince George Daniel Betts EDITOR

ThevAlleysenTinel.com

question of the week...

QUOTE of the week Kids ask questions.

- Brian Pepper, superintendent of schools, School District No.57, on sex education discussions in school.

Sentinel Letter Policy

Are unconventional discussions about oral sex appropriate in high school sex education classes? 1. Yes 2. No Go to www.thevalleysentinel.com to cast your vote. Results will be published in next week’s Valley Sentinel.

e welcome Letters to the Editor on all subjects. We do not publish anonymous letters, so please include your name and contact information so that we can verify that you wrote the letter. All letters are the opinion of the writer and not The Valley Sentinel. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with current standards of public taste.

Last week’s results: Should the Village of Valemount engage the public more in their decision making process? Yes 88% (7), No 12%(1)

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

6 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

COMMUNITY EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS

“APPLE GUY” Doug Kadatz will be in Valemount in the Ramada parking area on Mondays from 12 noon - 4 p.m. Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29

MEALS ON WHEELS FUNDRAISER Saturday, September 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Support the Meals On Wheels in Valemount and stop by the Golden Years Lodge for new treasures and baking. STACEY MCKITRICK Friday, October 5 - 7:30 p.m. The Roundhouse Theater in McBride presents Canadian Country Music’s rising star Stacey McKitrick. Tickets $25 available at Stedmans or $35 at door. THE NUMBER 14-Tuesday, October 16 at 7:30 p.m. VACS presents The Number 14 at the Valemount Community Theatre. Tickets in advance at Infinity or at the door. FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT FUNDRAISER Throughout the month of October One hour family photo shoot, for $50.00. The proceeds from this special will be going towards a woman in town fighting cancer, and is in need of financial support for various concerns including travel to chemotherapy. Arrangements can be made for larger groups and special circumstances. For more information, please call Laura Johnson at 250-566-9154

Valemount Learning Centre

Sentinel Historical Spotlight

Upcoming Classes

•

VEGETARIAN COOKING CLASS: Wednesday, Oct. 10 from 6pm-8pm at the Valemount Legion. Join us for some fantastic tasting food and learn three vegetarian recipes and many helpful tricks from a Mauritius/ Swiss trained chef. $35+HST • GOLD PROSPECTING: An Introduction on the Fraser River. Saturday September 29th from 10-3. $60+HST. Please call the Valemount Learning Centre for more information and to register 250-566-4601. Phone: 250-566-4601 • Fax: 250-566-4602

Check out our website at www.valemountlearningcentre.org Come and visit us again for the first time. Valemount 1201 - 5th Ave., Box 789, Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0 Learning Monday to Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Centre

VALEMOUNT MONDAYS: • VALEMOUNT SENIORS Carpet Bowling 9 a.m. Golden Years Lodge • ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION General meetings every 3rd Mon. of month 7:30 p.m. in Legion. • TAI KWAN DO & SELF DEFENSE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and TAI KWAN DO KIDS CLASSES 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. TUESDAYS: • VALEMOUNT CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY CENTRE Board Meeting 1st Tuesday of the month - 7 p.m. @ the Centre beneath the Community Hall (the red door). • COUNCIL MEETING 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 p.m., council chambers. Everyone welcome. • LADIES AUXILIARY #266 Legion Meetings 1st Tuesday of every month 3 p.m. in Valemount Legion. • CARDIO KICK BOXING 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAYS: • PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD MEETING Every 2nd Wed. 5 p.m. Downstairs at the library. • VALEMOUNT SENIORS MUSIC NIGHT 7-9 p.m. Golden Years Lodge • TOASTMASTERS meets every 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month. 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Best Western. • TAI KWAN DO & SELF DEFENSE 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and TAI KWAN DO KIDS CLASSES 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. THURSDAYS: • CRIBBAGE GAME at Golden Years Lodge at 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Everyone Welcome! • CHAMPS Weight loss Support Team for men and women. Thurs. 6:00 p.m. Downstairs Valemount Clinic. Shirley 566-9829, Dolly 566-8458. • CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Quarterly General Meetings 3rd Thurs. of January, April, July and October @ 4:45 p.m. Location TBA • SADDLE & WAGON CLUB MEETING 3rd Thurs. 7 p.m. 566-9707 • CARDIO KICK BOXING 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. • VALEMOUNT FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP will meet the last Thursday of every month at the old Village Ofﬁce, 99 Gorse St., at 7:30 p.m.. For families dealing with mental health issues. Call Irene Brady at (250) 566 1958. • FARMER’S MARKET 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. beside the Information Centre. FRIDAYS • VALEMOUNT LEGION Friday Night dinners starting at 5 p.m. • ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Friday evenings at 8 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Catholic Church basement

“First Baseball team”

Valemount’s first official baseball team, 1946.

Standing left to right: Harvey Beason, Bill Kushnir, Bill Froescul, Art Neuman, Harvey Osadchuk, WM Semeluk (Sambo). Kneeling left to right: Alex Osadchuk, “Sonnie” Dobie, BillOsadchuk, John Osadchuk. Valemount Museum & Archives # 997.09.306 Courtesy of The Valley Sentinel From the Valemount Museum and Archives/ ©Valemount and Area Museum.

SATURDAYS: • VALEMOUNT CIRCLE DANCE. For more info please contact 250 566-1782

TETE JAUNE •

TETE JAUNE COMMUNITY CLUB meetings held the 1st Tues. of the month at 7 p.m. at the Tete Jaune Hall.

MCBRIDE •

MCBRIDE COMMUNITY FOREST Open quarterly meetings on the ﬁrst Wednesday of the month on January 4, April 4, July 4, and October 3. McBride Village Council Chambers 7 p.m.

TUESDAYS: • TOPS Tues. 6:45 p.m. weigh-in, 7:15 p.m. meeting. Health Unit in McBride. New members welcome. Brenda Molendyk 569-3113 • VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING 2nd & 4th Tues.,7:30 p.m., Village Council Chambers. • ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Every Tuesday, 8 p.m. at the Health Unit. • STORYTIME at the McBride & District Public Library 10:30 a.m. •

WORDS OF WHIMSY creative writing for teens at 7 p.m. at the McBride Library.

WEDNESDAYS: • FREE DROP IN COMMUNITY VOLLEYBALL from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the McBride Secondary School • KIDZ KRAFTS 2:30-3:30 p.m. AT ODDS AND ENDS • DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP 1st Wed., 1 p.m. at Beaverview Lodge Sat. 10 a.m. -12 p.m., 441 Dominion St. • SUPPORT GROUP FOR FAMILIES DEALING WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS Last Wed every month 7:30 p.m. @ McBride Health Centre. More info call Norma 569-2637 or Elizabeth 968-4347 • VALLEY PIECEMAKERS QUILT GUILD Every other Wednesday. 7:00 p.m. in the High School. New members welcome, contact Dawna Hickerty 569-3210. • LEGION AUXILIARY BINGO First and Third Wednesday of the month at McBride Library. THURSDAYS: • OAPO STITCH & KNIT Every Thurs., 2:30 - 4 p.m., Beaverview Lodge, Hilda Murin 569-3305 FRIDAYS: • FARMER’S MARKET 12 noon - 3 p.m. at the pavilion in the Park SATURDAYS: • WRITERS’ CIRCLE at 1 p.m. Alternates between Dunster Fine Arts School & McBride Library. All Welcome. Contact 569 2411/ library@mcbridebc.org for more info.

Peter Reimer Notary Public

250-566-4464

Real Estate & Mortgages Wills, Contracts & Affidavits

1222 5th Avenue, Valemount Cell: 250-318-8808 • notary@vis.bc.ca

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

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 7

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Gentle mist or deadly fog Health Wise by Laura Johnson

tanding in the meadow at the edge of the forest watching the mist rise in the early morning, I enjoy the quiet moment. Soon however, I realize it isn’t as peaceful as first thought. The birds are chirping, squirrels are scurrying up and down trees, and the picture I first thought I was looking at, is different than what is actually going on. The same is true inside our bodies. There are concerns that could be lying just beneath the surface inside each of us, that escape our noticing unless we look closer, and listen. High blood pressure, and elevated lethal LDL cholesterol, are two silent concerns you may not be aware of unless you are looking. While cholesterol is a necessary part of good health, too much LDL can be harmful. Cholesterol travels through our blood. When there is too much, it begins to build up in our artery walls forming plaque. This plaque can cause narrowing of the artery. If the narrowing is in a heart or coronary artery, it can cause a heart attack. When the arteries that take blood to the brain are blocked, it can cause a stroke. Think of your blood vessels like a garden hose for example. If there is old stuff inside it, or as you narrow the opening, force builds up shooting the water harder and faster. That is about the same time you will notice any weak spots in the hose as they will bulge out, and eventually burst. That’s what too much cholesterol can be like. The plaque that builds up causes a narrow passage for the blood to travel through. This in turn increases the pressure that is travelling through your vessels. If the pressure is too great, it can cause your blood vessels to burst. The plaque can also cause such severe narrowing that your arteries may become totally blocked, and cause the pressure to build behind it, and burst there. Your body needs to meet the demands for oxygen, nutrients, and waste removal. The heart will try to pump quicker, the vessels will try their best, and all the time they may be struggling to do their job effectively. There are many things we can do, and be aware of to help our bodies run smoothly. Eat well, and exercise. Did you know that not exercising is as bad as smoking? As published on naturalnews.com, a recent study carried out by the University of Hong Kong concluded that a “sedentary lifestyle is more dangerous than smoking.” The university, along with the department of health were able to correlate the level of physical activity to the risk of dying. Apparently, “the risk of dying from heart disease was 52 per cent higher in men, and 28 per cent higher in women.” The study also makes reference to other diseases that are impacted by lack of physical activity, and is worth checking out. So while we all need to find time to relax, don’t become a couch potato. Don’t let the calm exterior of your body mislead you into a false sense of security. Check out what’s going on in your forest, and see if it is as quiet as you first thought. Losing weight, and throwing in some extra veggies with dinner, along with trying not to put a ton of butter on your next piece of white bread will all help. So will a walk around the block on your lunch break, or maybe after dinner. Don’t let the quiet mist turn out to be a misleading fog that puts you into the emergency room wondering what happened. Go see your doctor for a check-up, and together come up with a plan for a healthier you. I think I’ll go for a walk. Would you like to come?

VARDA Annual General Meeting will be held at the Best Western Valemount, Bears Den Room

October 3, 2012 @ 7:00 p.m.

Vote in your 2012/2013 Board of Directors and get updated on VARDA current events ! A current membership in VARDA is needed to be eligible to vote. Memberships are available for $20 at the VARDA office located next to the Visitor Information Center. 2011/ 2012 Memberships expire after this meeting. Remember, if you are a sponsor, you are also a member!

Call 250-566-4817 or email varda@valemount.ca

General public are welcome to attend

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8 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

Jasper Tramway experience enhanced by vGuide

“Guided Hike”

Above: Visitors hike toward Whistlers mountain peak, some receiving information from the new vGuide. Centre: The new vGuide for Jasper Tramway is the first of its kind in Canada. Right: Jasper tram arriving at the upper station. Photos by Andrea Scholz

Oral Cancer is on the Rise...Are You at Risk?

Registered Dental Hygienist, Felicia Eaton, will be presenting a brief seminar on Oral Health Care for Senior Citizens in Valemount and the surrounding Robson Valley. Location: Valemount Golden Year’s Lodge - Upstairs Date: Monday, October 1st, 2012 Time: 2-3 p.m.

Complimentary Oral Cancer Screenings

Location: Valemount Seniors Golden Year’s Lodge Date: Wednesday, October 3rd, 2012 Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Information Contact: 250-566-4664 or 250-566-4687

The Roundhouse Theatre

Daniel Betts Editor

he tram arrives at the upper station on Whistlers Mountain, in Jasper National Park, and you take a few steps away from the door after it opens. A gentle tone sounds in your ear. Soon a voice begins to speak, informing you that you are on the boardwalk and there are interesting things to see. You lift the light rectangular device hanging from your neck to watch a short video while listening to the informative commentary. This is what happens when visitors to the Jasper Tramway choose to equip themselves with the new vGuide. “We’re all about the view,” said Todd Noble, operations manager for the tramway. “This enhances it.” The vGuide, was created by BpbZ, a Canadian-Irish enterprise. It is a small rectangular device similar in size and shape to an android device, protected by a thick plastic sheath. It hangs about the user’s neck and has an earpiece that fits comfortably against the ear. GPS activated, the device knows where the user is walking and activates upon reaching an area of interest and plays a new video and commentary. The device is meant to enhance the Rocky Mountain experience while the user is touring the vicinity of the upper and lower tram stations as well as the trail leading to the peak of Whistlers Mountain. The device did not activate during the ride up or down the tram, presumably so attention was available to the living breathing human guide attending the car.

“A variety of information, from mountain elevation to animals one might spot from the tram, is featured,” said Noble. The Valley Sentinel had an opportunity to try out the device and as promised it activated and explained many features ranging from the geography of the area, to animal and plant life. The trail leading to the peak of Whistlers Mountain was busy with visiting tourists, some of which were using the new vGuide. While walking the trail, the device activated along the way, pointing out features. Besides the video commentary, users can access several menus on the device, which offer historical information on Jasper, panoramic views and explanations of prominent mountain features, and a map, which displays your exact location on the mountain. The touch screen was easy to use, however non-tech savvy users could find operation challenging without first reviewing the instructional video at the start of the tour. Noble noted one of the first prototypes was designed for users to be able to point at features and select information, however the technology proved to be too challenging. The Jasper Tramway is the first tourist destination to receive the vGuide in Canada, however a similar device is planned for the CN Tower in Toronto, and similar audio guides have been available for large museums around the world, although much less sophisticated. “Feedback has been positive,” said Noble.

Presents

Canadian Country Music‘s Rising Star

JUNO award winning songwriter Stacy McKitrick returns to McBride. She has just released a dazzling self-titled debut album that confirms she is a young artist of immense talent and potential. She has surrounded herself with an A-list of producers, songwriters, and musicians, carefully constructing a killer recording .

October 5, 2012 7:30 pm

Tickets $25, $35 at the door

McBride Roundhouse Theater Available at Stedmans

“Poker Ride in McBride”

35 riders of all ages headed out with their horses on Ray Long’s cattle lease outside of McBride on a beautiful sunny fall day, Saturday, Sept. 22, to participate in the Back Country Horsemen of BC Robson Valley Chapter’s second annual poker ride fundraiser. Participants enjoyed a fabulous ride through the fields and forest and along the Fraser River. After the ride, everybody was treated to a fabulous meal of chilli, smokies and corn. This year’s winners were first place Janice Mercuri, second place Shona Thorne and third place Eileen MacDonald. Worst Hand went to Georgie Kenzie. There were three youth competitors as well, who also each won a prize for participating. Mac Cochrane won $567.50 as this year’s ghost rider winner. There were so many prizes that everyone won at least one prize. Photo by Eileen MacDonald

COmmunity

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 9

Filming Through Ice and Time Daniel Betts Editor

he Columbia Icefield is playing the staring role in a film directed by a wellknown Hollywood director. Through Ice and Time is a 15-minute film produced by Stonehaven Productions, and features a cast of completely local Jasper talent. Dana Rudy, who grew up in the Columbia Icefield area, was instrumental in the creation of the initial treatment and plays the central character in the film. Local climber, Eddie Klopfenstein plays an elderly version of Rudy’s Character. Young local actor, Dylan Skinner plays Rudy’s character as a young boy. “In getting people with the right look we also ended up with people who lived that lifestyle,” explained Sean Nardella, promotions officer for Parks Canada. Also featured in the film are, Nico Magnan, Sean Hendricks, Wyatt Bell and Erika Whitty; all local talents. Through Ice and Time is intended to be installed in the renovated Icefields Glacier Gallery, which is expected to be completed by 2014. However, it is hoped an advanced screening of the film can be arranged next summer when post-production is completed. The film itself has no dialogue and is told in a poetic non-linear way. “We wanted to keep it simple,” explained Nardella, citing an international audience and language issues. Connections in the film are implied. The film’s story is seen through the eyes of an elderly man looking back on his experiences on the Columbia Icefields as a young man and boy. He sadly searches for something he lost, which connects him to his past, Mount Athabasca and the Columbia Icefields. Alar Kivilo, who directed the photography of such films as Hart’s War and the Oscar-winning The Blind Side, applied his talent to the creation of this new promotional film commissioned by Parks Canada. When a call for bids on the project was released, included among the films Parks Canada were interested in emulating, dramatically and stylistically, was the recent Tourism Newfoundland campaigns, which were also directed by Kivilo. Stonehaven Productions contacted Kivilo directly and he agreed to work on the project. “Alar [Kivilo] normally has an expensive going rate,” said Nardella. “We aren’t paying what he is worth to have him here.”

Kivilo says the film is meant to be an emotional experience. “It was never meant to be a climbing film,” said Kivilo. “It’s an evocative, poetic film about the icefield itself and the area surrounding the icefield. The intent is to get people moved and interested to come and explore on their own.” Having had an opportunity to visit a couple times in his lifetime, Kivilo shared his “urge” to come to the mountains every September. However his primary reason for taking on the project was having a chance to do something very creative with social value. “The thought of getting people coming here and embracing nature seemed like a worthwhile thing to do,” said Kivilo. He also noted it was a nice change from his usual projects. Kivilo noted filming went very well both with the weather and with cast and crew. “People behind the scenes and on camera were amazing,” said Kivilo. Kivilo cannot say enough about the Jasper talent involved with the project. “They were extremely natural on camera,” said Kivilo. He said the key to this film is its ability to evoke and arouse emotions from the audience. He feels fortunate they were able to find actors who could do just that. He suspects Jasper’s mountain lifestyle has much to do with their natural ability. “Maybe being surrounded by huge mountains puts everything in life into perspective,” Kilivo suggests.

Valemount: Celebrating 50 years of mountain culture Marie Birkbeck Contributor

ith the fiftieth anniversary celebration mere days away, plans are coming together in a flurry! New events and attractions are coming on board almost daily; there truly will be something for everyone. With the exception of the dance on Saturday evening and the harvest supper on Sunday afternoon, all activities and events are provided at no charge. The weekend celebrations start with a welcome reception at the Valemount Information Centre on Friday evening, Oct. 5. After the reception, you can join the Valemount Old-timers at Golden Years Lodge for some old time toe tapping tunes. You can also head over to the curling rink and dance to the tunes of Mamaguroove and High Society. Saturday morning, Oct. 6, make your way over to the Legion Hall for a hearty breakfast of pancakes and sausages before partaking in your choice of events throughout the day. The Mile 53 hike, avalanche presentation, Big Foot Trail Poker Walk and loads of fun stuff for the kids are but a sampling of what will be going on during the day. Evening brings more entertainment. Canadian Country Music Star Duane Steele will be performing at the Legion from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Famous Players Band, a ten-piece dance band from Vancouver, will be performing at the Airport until the wee hours of the morning. Advanced tickets are only $10.00 at Infinity; no tickets will be available at the door. Complimentary shuttle service from the Info Centre will get you to the grounds and back. Sunday’s activities will feature Helicopter Tours with Yellowhead Helicopters, the Anniversary Cake, Harvest Dinner, and wind up Sunday evening with a drive-in movie at the airport! Shuttle service will be available for the Sunday events as well. Have you got anything for the Time Capsule? Started by the Valemountain Days Committee in June it is still open for contributions. Drop-off boxes will also be accessible in select locations throughout the celebration weekend. Don’t know what to add? Just about anything except food, liquids, and batteries is acceptable. Photographs, letters, and newspaper articles should be encased in acid free envelopes. Lori McNee at the village will be accepting items until Dec. 12, when the time capsule will be sealed until some years in the future. All in all it promises to be a fun-filled weekend and the committee looks forward to seeing everyone out as Valemount celebrates 50 years of mountain culture. For a full schedule of events, times and places see elsewhere in this paper or visit the village website: http://www.visitvalemount.ca/Events/50th_Anniversary.html

10 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Village of McBride Council briefs September 18 Allan Frederick STAFF WRITER

he regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of McBride set for Sept. 25 was rescheduled to Sept. 18 in view of the mayor and councillors attending the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) during the week of Sept. 25. In attendance were Mayor Frazier, Coun. Irene Rejman, Coun. Lori Kimpton, Coun. Rick Thompson and Coun. Raj Basran, Economic Development Officer Margaret Graine and Chief Administrative Officer Eliana Clements. One member of the public was present. Agenda with additions received: Rejman made a motion that the agenda with additions be received as presented. The motion was seconded by Kimpton and carried. Minutes approved: Rejman made a motion that the minutes for the regular meeting of September 11 be approved. The motion was seconded by Thompson and carried. Reports: Mayor, councillors, administration and the economic development officer provided verbal reports on their activities since the last meeting. 2012 Business Licence Revenue: A report from administration related to the 2012 Business License Revenue collected and an 85 per cent dispersal of these fees to the Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $7,395 for the operating expenses of the McBride Community Development Visitor Service Centre was provided for Council’s review. Road Name Dedication A request was received from Dave and Gail Shantz regarding the naming of a road that was created in a subdivision off Airport Road. A resolution was made by Thompson, which was seconded by Frazier, requested the road be named “Shantz Place,” and was carried. Administration now has to complete a road index search within Regional District of FraserFort George to ensure that there are no existing roads with that name. Public Hearing Results: A motion for the Development Variance Permit No. DVP 2012-05 was made by Rejman and seconded by Basran. This permit covers the property located at 399 Main Street and the following variances;

a) the minimum rear setback be changed from 23 feet to 16 feet, b) the minimum front setback be changed from 25 feet to 0 feet, c) the minimum side setback be changed from 10 feet to 0 feet, d) the maximum site coverage be changed from 60 per cent to 85 per cent and e) the maximum building height be changed from 23 feet to 33 feet. This permit will be issued for a period of 6 years and if not substantially commenced within this timeframe the permit will lapse. This permit is not a Building Permit. The motion was carried. A Motion for the Development Variance Permit No. DVP 2012-06 was made by Rejman and seconded by Basran. This permit covers the property located at 1067 Second Avenue and the following variances; a) the minimum side setback be changed from 5 feet to 1 foot, b) the maximum site coverage be changed from 33 per cent to 54 per cent. This permit is not a building permit. The motion was carried with Basran the lone negative vote. Paving – Second Avenue: A discussion and rough cost estimates for a portion of Second Avenue to be paved this fall was presented and the final decision will be based on the actual costs that are to be provided shortly as a paving crew will be in the area. Council expects some good cost savings for the Village. Public Hearings Sept. 18 Development Variance Permit The Public Hearing Meeting was opened at 7 p.m. prior to the Council meeting on the Development Variance Permits DVP 2012-05 and DVP 2012-06. In attendance was the applicant for DVP 2012-05 and a representative of the present owner of the property, Hruby Investments Ltd. In the case of the DVP 2012-06 a representative of the applicant Barbara Jackson was in attendance. There were no written submissions received for either Development Variance Permits and no public presentation was made at the meeting. The meeting was adjourned and closed at 7:22 p.m. Dates for the Council meetings, agendas and minutes as well as information on how to address Council and provide input at a Council meeting can be found on the Village of McBride website at www.mcbride.ca. For more information, contact the Village of McBride at 250-569-2229. Additional information on Village happenings can be found on Coun. Thompson’s Blog at www.rickthompson.webs.com. Both Mayor Frazier and Coun. Thompson also maintain a Facebook page with public information.

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Jen Applebaum 250.566.4005 Office 250.566.1323 Cell Valemount

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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 11

Village of McBride Council briefs September 11 Allan Frederick STAFF WRITER

activities. Public Works Supervisor Aitken provided an update on the public works program and status on small projects being worked on in the village.

he regularly scheduled meeting for the Village of McBride was held Sept. 11 with Mayor Frazier, Coun. Rick Thompson, Coun. Lori Kimpton, Coun. Raj Basran and Coun. Irene Rejman, Chief Administrative Officer Eliana Clements and Public Works Supervisor John Aitken in attendance. Economic Development Officer Margaret Graine was absent. Two members of the public were also present. Agenda with additions received: Basran made a motion that the agenda with additions be received as presented. The motion was seconded by Rejman and carried. Minutes approved: Rejman made a motion that the regular meeting minutes of Aug. 28 be approved. The motion was seconded by Kimpton and carried. Reports: Mayor, councillors and administration provided verbal reports on their

Development Variance Permit No. 2012-04: Kimpton excused herself from the meeting as the Development Variance Permit No. 2012-04 came up for discussion. A motion by Mayor Frazier, seconded by Rejman was then discussed and subsequently approved. Accounts Payable: Basran made a motion to approve the payment of accounts payable for July 2012, seconded by Rejman and carried. Contract Awarded “Village Loop Walking Trail – Phase One” A motion made by Rejman, to award a contract to Robson Valley Construction for $85,906 plus HST, for the Columbia Street & 1st Avenue trail work, was seconded by Thompson. Council carried the motion. This amount is within the budget for this portion of the project.

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

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Sands Bulk Sales LTD Husky Oil Limited

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

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:

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CHURCH LISTINGS VALEMOUNT

GOOD SHEPHERD ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH

250 566-4797 7th & Cedar, Sunday

Worship 10:00 AM

NEW LIFE CENTRE

1247 - 1st Ave. 250-566-4824

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

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

VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 250 566-9996

Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

DUNSTER

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YOUR LOCAL PROPANE PROVIDER

MORTGAGES

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

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

King Creek Property Management Call Albert to Discuss Ideas, Free Quotes, or Small Jobs at 250-569-0191 20 years Renovating ~ Concrete to Cabinets

CUSTOM BUILT LOG CABINS FOR SALE Delivering Fuel East to McBride

Vanderhoof & District Co-Operative Association

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

Greg Belshaw

990 Railway Road Prince George 1-866-309-2667 Office: (250) 564-3488

Vanderhoof Office Office: (250) 567-4488 Fax: (250) 567-4490 Cell: (250) 565-8436

Debra Parker AMP Mortgage Consultant

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

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

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

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH

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Church 569.2378 or 569.8845 1st Ave

HOME DESIGNS & RENOVATIONS

Worship Service on Sun 10:30am

ANGLICAN UNITED CHURCH

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MOUNTAIN CHAPEL (PAOC)

Church 569-3350 Office 569-6802 Sunday Worship 11:00am, Prayer Service Wed. 7 pm

MENNONITE CHURCH

Sun. Sch. 10am Sunday Services 11am, 7:30pm Wed 7:45pm

12 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

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CLASSIFIEDS

GTS for 20 words and $1 plus HST for each additional word. Offer valid for the following classified categories: Automotive, Campers/Motorhomes, Miscellaneous, Recreational Vehicles, Pets/Livestock, and Building Materials. This offer is valid for single item sales only. Your ad will run for up to three months after which you can choose to renew your ad.

Main: 250.566.4425 | Toll-free: 1.800.226.2129 | E-mail: classifieds@thevalleysentinel.com | Web: classifieds.thevalleysentinel.com CAMPER WITH TRUCK

1993 Dodge Spirit car Loaded, 78,000 original kilometres. Garage stored. Excellent condition. Excellent Fuel economy. $4700 OBO Contact Oli @ 250-569-2583 2004 Ford Freestar minivan Sports model. Tan colour. Loaded. Good condition. Clean. WInter rims and tires included. $6,500 OBO Phone 250569-7295 daytime or 250968 4322 evenings.

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. In great condition. 1996 Ford F-250 extended cab short box, 196,000km, truck canopy included. Asking price is $10,500 for BOTH. If interested call Jocelyn 250-566-4491 (home) or 250-566-1700 (cell)

GTS JAN 25

GTS SEPT 5

FOOD/LIVESTOCK

HEAVY EQUIPMENT

Large Russian Garlic bulbs, 20 month old purebred jersey heifer, and kids pony. Contact 250-968-4356 GTS MAY 2

Feller Buncher 227 Cat, new motor, good undercarriage, most of this machine is rebuilt. Price $18,500 obo. Call 250566-2471 GTS JULY 25

LIVESTOCK / HAY

Hay for sale, $40 a round bale. Call 250-566-9906 SEPT 26

SERVICES

WELL PUMPING & CLEANING 25 ft. deep or less. Call Frank 250-566-9707

EMPLOYMENT

MISC. FOR SALE

RENTALS

Good used sea containers for sale. McBride area $3,650, Valemount $3,500 Delivered. We accept Visa/ MC 250-314-9522 SEPT 26

Farmhouse in Old Tete Jaune- still available. Rustic and remote. Not for the faint of heart. Pets OK. $500/ mo. Rene 250.566.4199 or 566.8200. OCT 3

NOTICE LOOKING FOR BENJAMIN STONER regarding the settlement of the estate of your late father, RAY STONER. Please contact your sister Sharon at 604-307-3996 as soon as possible. BOATS & MARINE

2-bedroom 1400 sq ft 2 story house recently painted and new laminate on main. fenced yard w/d included. avail Oct 1. Phone 250 248-3301 SEPT 26

CN APARTMENTS 1 & 2 BR $520 & $590 plus hydro. No pets. JUNIPER MANOR Furnished Bachelor $450 plus hydro. 2 BR $550 plus hydro. Scott 250-5661569 SEPT 26

We Believe Yachting Should be Easier. Professionally managed shared yacht ownership. 604.669.2248 www.one4yacht.com

Furnished 3 and 2 bedroom homes and bachelor suites available short term and long term. Email ideal4@gmail.com or call 250-566-9884

RENTALS

Rental listings Valemount Real estate #016

#024

#026-A

#026-C

Cutest house in town! 2 bdrm + office, 1.5 baths + laundry, north & south decks, detached wired garage, great corner lot with fencing. Excellent condition! Pet ok. $875. Available Sept. 15 Mtnview Apts. No smoking, no pets, clean and quiet building. 1 Bedroom - $475, 2 Bedroom-$575, Bachelor-$375 Garden level, unfurnished 2 bdrm suite in 4-plex. Very spacious and bright. No pets, no smoking. $550 Furnished 2 bdrm in 4-plex. 1000 sq. feet! Laundry now provided. No pets, no smoking $650

Photos and details at

www.rusticluxury.com Call Jen 250-566-1323 HOME FOR RENT

TRAILER FOR SALE

Best kitchen in Valemount plus 3 bedrooms up and 2 down. All appliances, washer and dryer included. Large family room. Fenced yard. No smoking, pets negotiable. $925/month plus deposit Available October 1 Call 250-566-5375.

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

OCT 3

SEPT 26

GTS JUNE 20

CABIN FOR SALE

2-bedroom Cabin for sale on 4.5 acres. 2 km North on Highway 5 from Valemount. Phone 250-5669906 1313 Week of 9.24.2012

AUTOMOBILES

EMPLOYMENT

Village of Valemount Two Request for Proposal 1. The Village of Valemount seeks the services of a General Contractor to complete the Recovery work for the restoration on Swift Creek located in Valemount, British Columbia. Closing Date: Friday October 5, 2012; Closing Time: 4:00 p.m. 2. The Village of Valemount seeks the services of a contractor to run the operations at the Valemount Visitor Information Centre. Closing Date: Monday, November 5, 2012; Closing Time: 4:00 p.m. Both Request for Proposals may be downloaded at www.valemount.ca/bids Village of Valemount 735 Cranberry Lake Road Box 168 • Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 Telephone: 250.566.4435 www.valemount.ca

CLASSIFIEDS WORK!

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PROFESSIONAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES. Troyer Ventures Ltd. is a privately owned energy services company servicing Western Canada. All job opportunities include competitive wages and a comprehensive benefit plan. We are accepting applications at multiple branches for: Professional Drivers (Class 1, 3). Successful candidates will be self-motivated and eager to learn. Experience is preferred, but training is available. Valid safety tickets, clean drug test, and a drivers abstract are required. For more information and to apply on these opportunities and additional postings visit our employment webpage at: http://troyer.ca/employmentopportunities.

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The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 13

Notes from all over

Centre at (250) 566 4601. They are currently looking for instructors for a variety of evening classes a couple hours per week.

Donalda Beeson Contributor

Three Ranges Brewing Company Michael Lewis says he is moving to Valemount and plans to start a new microbrewery in the village within the next year. You may have met him or seen him in front of the BC Liquor store recently doing surveys. Valemount 1962- 2012: Celebrating 50 years of mountain culture Attention clubs, organizations and interested individuals! The 50th Anniversary Committee is seeking help from the public to operate concessions and bars during our celebrations Oct. 5 to 7, 2012. If your club or organization is interested in operating one of these venues, please contact Lori McNee at the Village Office (250) 566 4435. If you are interested in helping with some of the behind the scenes work, please contact Christine Latimer at the Best Western Hotel or email her at 50@valemount.ca. Meditation at The Gathering Tree The weekly meditation at The Gathering Tree on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. is put on hold for the time being. The next Wednesday meditation will be at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24, 2012. The cost is $5 drop-in. Looking for instructors at the Learning Centre The Valemount Learning Centre wants to know if you need extra cash? Do you have a skill you would like to share? If you do, call the Valemount Learning

New Hours for the Valemount CIBC It’s like it’s Friday all the time! As of Sept. 24, 2012, CIBC will be open Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily! Lions Calendar last chance to sign up This is your last chance to purchase your Valemount Lions Calendar and get your families birthdays and anniversaries on the list. Contact Barb shepherd or drop your completed forms at the McLennan Car/Truck Stop or the IGA deli counter. Get on the Greens before they are white Ladies Day and Men’s Night are all finished up at Valemount Pines golf course for the year. However, Sue Marko says, “The weather is still stellar and the course remains open as long as Mother Nature permits.” So get out and play before the greens go white! THE VALLEY Got a Tip? If you have a note idea or tip, or would like to share your event or happening with us, you are encouraged to contact Donalda Beeson at donalda@ thevalleysentinel.com or The Valley Sentinel (250) 566 4425.

New to The Valley Sentinel: Allan Frederick Allan Frederick Staff Writer

orn and raised on Montreal, I had been involved primarily in the Banking and Finance workplace for over 30 years. I relocated to Alberta in 1981 with the Alberta Treasury Branches (ATB), initially in Edmonton, but travelled and worked throughout northern Alberta over the years and ended in Hinton prior to leaving ATB. In March 2000, I moved to McBride to operate the local Husky and expected to be here for only 1 or 2 years. This is now home and I love the area’s beauty, slower pace of life and great people. I have served two terms on Village Council and have been actively involved in the community with the Volunteer Fire Department, Royal Canadian Legion, McBride Community Forest Board and Chamber of Commerce. I am looking forward to the local staff writer position with The Valley Sentinel in McBride and having our local community event coverage increased. Call me at (250) 569 2336 for any upcoming events and news, or drop by the new McBride Office located at 411 Main Street Unit 103. We are open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday.

sentinel

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

McBride Office Hours The Valley Sentinel in McBride: In order to better serve our McBride readership, The Valley Sentinel has opened an office located at 411 Main Street, behind Country Chic. Stop by to put your classified ads, purchase a subscription, or talk to Allan Frederick about upcoming events and news.

Wednesday Thursday Friday

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Phone Allan in the McBride office at (250) 569-2336

sentinel THE VALLEY

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR NEWSPAPER

Valemount Office Hours The Valley Sentinel in Valemount has new hours: Monday 9 a.m. Wednesday Noon Tuesday Friday to to Thursday 1 p.m. 5 p.m. Valemount office (250) 566-4425

Join the thousands of visitors to our website and make

www.thevalleysentinel.com

YOUR DESTINATION FOR

BREAKING NEWS * Daily Updates * Easy Navigation * Great Photography * Regional Stories with a local perspective * Local Banner Advertising - Advertise Your Business Online

www.thevalleysentinel.com Breaking News: You may need to know about it before Wednesday.

New at the McBride Public Library Try a BC author: Shelter- Frances Greenslade Spit Delaney’s Island – Jack Hodgins The Inverted Pyramid- Bertrand W. Sinclair The Curve of Time- M. Wylie Blanchet More in Anger – J. Hill Robinson Or peruse a picture book: Along a Long Road – Frank Viva Red Wagon – Renata Liwska It’s A Book – Lane Smith Giraffe and Bird – Rebecca Bender I Want My Hat Back – Jon Klassen Caramba – Marie-Louise Gay We’re now open on Thursdays between 10am – 5pm all year long. 250-569-2411 / library@mcbridebc.org

www.mcbride.bclibrary.ca

14 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

ACTIVITIES

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE bY MICHAEL O’CONNOR Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20) A noticeable turn in your love life is likely now. It could go either way, so look sharp. What do you want, desire and dream about? With passions sparking you just might get some of your wishes granted. Then again, any unwanted combustibles would be best managed with full awareness lest sparks ignite flames that burn. Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21) Some passionate exchanges are rocking your world. You are being approached by some real power players. ‘No’ is unlikely to be the answer they will accept. Making deliberate efforts to meet these with equal fervour may require a certain adjustment of attitude and perhaps some extra creative thinking. See the silver lining through any dark clouds. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Something new is brewing close to home. This is stirring creative insights of all kinds. Somehow you would like to color your world with new tones and hues. Making improvements of some kind is the core theme. To achieve your goals you are ready to take a few risks. You are in the mood to go big. Balance a clear focus with flexibility; some unexpected turns are likely. Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) You are seeing the world with new eyes, as if suddenly. Recent encounters and perhaps some surprise intel are having definite affects. If you are open and willing, these stand to be real blessings. Sometimes our horizons broaden due to outer vistas and experiences and sometimes from inner. Focus to allow these new perspectives to digest and be assimilated into your awareness.

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

your ideas, visions and plans down to earth and to share them with the world. Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) Some major new initiatives are brewing in the back of your mind. Your ambitions are on the rise. You are preparing to launch your plans. Tapping the talents and resources of others remains likely and ideal. Your willingness to make key investments may be necessary for success. Paying off old debts may also be required. Do what you must to truly succeed. Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21) With Saturn poised to enter your sign this week everyone will feel the shift, not least of all you. Expect a sober, serious and determined mood that has been gestating to come to the fore. It may take until the next Full Moon to fully reveal itself but it will. Already your focus is getting sharper and you may feel the urge to make a few cuts to break free. Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21) Approaching authority figures for favours, earned rewards and/ or promotions is a current theme. If you feel the urge to do so but have not yet then this is your reminder. Socializing with others to share and exchange ideas, visions and philosophies is featured. The time has come to make some key changes in your lifestyle. Make your health a priority. Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Seeing a bigger picture somehow has emerged in your life. It is likely that you have reached peaks over the past few years but have also had to endure the pressures of ‘high altitude’. Now, it is time to receive the rewards of your efforts. Hopefully, you have been diligent and integral. The quality of your efforts is soon to be revealed.

Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) Building upon new foundations continues. A sober and pragmatic tone is woven into your overall focus. Meeting new people and making new friends is a source of inspiration. Many new opportunities are linked to these connections. Travel is also featured and mixing business with pleasure and adventure stands to be a big perk.

Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19) Some rather deep changes are brewing. These are linked to new knowledge, instruction and/or training. A patient, humble and diligent attitude and approach is a key to your success. All true rewards are earned. A deserving attitude can be healthy, yet feeling entitled without due diligence often leads to problems. Exercise a beginners mind.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) The urge to take key initiatives and explore new territory continues. At worst, indecision has arisen, perhaps due to a lack of clarity and vision. This stands to be an expansive time in your life, yet you must be willing to make the necessary efforts. The time has come to bring

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Some important new beginnings in your relationship life have been seeded. Your personal, professional and social spheres are all being activated. Success requires that you take a more creative and refined approach than you have previously. Diversifying your approach somehow is ideal. Identify your spectrum of talents and opportunities.

The Valley Sentinel Wednesday September 26, 2012 • 15

hen Vicki Lefrancois met her now-fiancé Ben Roche, she was given an ultimatum. Her young English beau told her he was going on a four-and-a-half month expedition, canoeing from Columbia Glacier to Tuktoyaktuk, NWT, whether she came along or not. It was a 4,000-kilometre adventure Roche had been planning for quite some time and he wasn’t about to let anything or anyone stand in his way. But Lefrancois isn’t just anything or anyone. She’s a woman in love. So, the Quebec-native, who had never before camped or paddled, learned how and learned quickly. “I couldn’t let him go for four months and not know if he would come back alive,” she said with a laugh. “I had to go with him. He needed someone to take care of him.” And take care of him she did. For two months before the couple left on their grand Northern adventure, Lefrancois spent her time dehydrating all of their meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. And while on the water, she earned her keep, paddling hard for hours on end, often encouraging Roche to keep going just a little further. The pair met nearly two years ago while working at the Sawridge Inn and got engaged while on the trip. It only took a week of paddling together, setting up and taking down camp together, cooking and eating together, and spending every waking moment together, for Roche to know Lefrancois was the woman he wanted to marry. “If we could do that, I figured everything else in life would be easy,” he said with a laugh. The first day of the trip, April 23, was the most challenging of them all. The couple and their then-seven-month-old Norwegian elkhound, Tallak, had to lug all of their gear, including their canoe, from Sunwapta Falls to Athabasca Crossing, a 20-kilometre trek through waist deep snow and rain. It took 12 excruciating hours. “Every time I took a step, I would just sink in and fall over,” said Roche. “So after an hour of that, we had to turn the canoe into a sled and pull it up to the campsite.” “And then, at the end we had a nice thunderstorm and pouring rain, just to finish it up,” said Lefrancois. “It was one of the worst days of the trip. But then we said, ‘If we can go through this one day – which was a horrible, horrible day – then it can’t be worse after that.’” And they were right, it didn’t get much worse. The couple averaged 35 kilometres of paddling a day. On their best day, when the water was moving quickly, they completed 100 kilometres. On their worst, they travelled three kilometres. That was on Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories. “We started paddling, there was too much wind, we pulled over and we waited,” said Lefrancois. For Roche, Great Slave Lake was the most memorable body of water. “It’s like an ocean,” he said. “I come from England. You can stand on the shore of England and you can see France across the sea. So, to go to Great Slave Lake and see nothing beyond was incredible.” But, as incredible as it was to see, it was equally as challenging to paddle. “There was such wind and such waves, we had thunder and lightening storms pretty much every day that sometimes we had to paddle through,” he said. “It was one of the most challenging parts of the trip. I never hope to repeat it.” After enduring numerous thunder and lightening storms, the couple finally made it to Beaver Lake, the stretch of water where Great Slave Lake meets the Mackenzie River. That was where they had their first encounter with swarms of pesky sand flies. “It turns out their habitat is long, waterlogged grass,” wrote Roche on the couple’s blog. “We made the ultimate mistake of moving into a patch to see if we

could get out and will never again make that mistake. “When the bow of the canoe touched the grass, a literal black cloud burst from within and covered us and the boat. I was wearing short sleeves, shorts, and my shirt was undone. My skin was black and crawling with flies. It was horrifying, and they followed us like that for around two hours. We didn’t go near the shore again.” With the expectation of running into enormous insects in Canada’s North, the couple packed bug nets and six cans of Deet insect repellent. But, despite being prepared, Roche made Lefrancois ration her Deet usage, for fear that they would run out. “We came back with four and a half cans because I rationed it,” said Roche with a hearty laugh. From Beaver Lake, the couple continued North up the Mackenzie River, stopping in a number of small communities, including Fort Providence, Fort Simpson, Norman Wells, Fort Good Hope, Inuvik and finally Tuktoyaktuk. In each community, they were surprised by the warm welcome extended to them by the locals, who happily opened their homes and cupboards to the couple. “We got a lot of invites to dinner. On a few days, people even showed up in the morning by motorboat – First Nation guys – and asked, ‘Do you want some fish for breakfast?’ and then pass us a giant whitefish,” said Roche. “Yeah, I didn’t expect that,” continued Lefrancois. Nor did she expect the beauty of the Northern tundra, where there are no trees hindering your view of the never ending sky. “I was really amazed by that. It’s just huge and a lot of emptiness,” she said. “The sunsets were amazing.” On the couple’s last night of camping, before arriving in Tuktoyaktuk, they saw green streaks of light dancing across the sky. It was the Aurora Borealis. They viewed the sight as a reward for all of their hard work and as a good omen for their final day of paddling. The next morning, Aug. 30, they woke up early and paddled into Tuktoyaktuk just as the sun was rising. “It was magical, and all the more of a powerful paddling experience as it was our last on the trip,” said Roche. After a week in Tuktoyaktuk, the couple f lew to Inuvik, where they met a friend who drove them the 3,500 kilometres back to Jasper. They arrived home Sept. 10 and now plan to travel east to Quebec, where they will build their own house, grow their own food and become self-sufficient. But, this doesn’t mark the end of their adventure. In two years, the couple plans to return to Athabasca Crossing to depart on a canoe trip to the Pacific Ocean, and later, after they’ve built their own canoe, they hope to go back a third time to make the trip from the Athabasca River to the Atlantic Ocean. “From Jasper it’s so easily accessible right at the door,” said Roche of adventure. “We started by going North. Now we have to go East and West.” To learn more about Roche, Lefrancois, Tallak and their Northern adventure, visit www.paddlethewaters.org.

16 • Wednesday September 26, 2012 The Valley Sentinel

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