Volume 27, Issue 49 by The Valley Sentinel

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 6, 2012 $1.16 Plus HST

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 49 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: -2°C Low: -3°C

High: -3°C Low: -7°C

High: -7°C Low: -9°C

ENGAGING COMMUNITY CONVERSATION

ACADEMIC AWARD PAGE 3

WINTER HORSE CARE PAGE 14

GRIZZLIES VS JASPER PHOTOS PAGE 22

ANDREA SCHOLZ PHOTO

Anne Yanciw, chief administrative ofﬁcer of the Village of Valemount, addresses the audience during the “community conversation” held at the Valemount Visitor Information Centre on the evening of Nov. 29. See story on page 2.

FARMERS INSTITUTE DINNER PAGE 23

The Valley Sentinel, ROBSON VALLEY REGION • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

A community conversation in Valemount By DANIEL BETTS Editor

VALEMOUNT – A much anticipated event gave Valemount residents the opportunity to address issues directly with the village. Residents filled the Visitors Information Centre in Valemount for a candid face-to-face town hall meeting with the mayor and council on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 29. The currently serving mayor and council had been elected just over a year ago with little to no experience in municipal politics and had come prepared for both criticism and applause. Coun. Dallas Bullock opened the conversation and highlighted three accomplishments over the last year, including the snowmobile races held in February. She also revealed the village is considering an upgrade to the villages water supply that would see a gravity feed system with little operating costs. Coun. Sandy Salt spoke of the Woodstove Exchange program, the village mapping project and the Columbia Basin Trust community initiatives funding, which has greatly assisted local development projects, such as the Crystal Ridge sled assisted ski hill. Coun. Christine Latimer spoke of the recent 50th anniversary celebrations, the community hall renovations and the need for further funding for the Borealis GeoPower project on Kinbasket Lake. Coun. Hollie Blanchette spoke of

Gary Schwartz Farrier Service

the Community Use Agreement with Valemount Secondary School that formalizes the use of facilities within the school for community members. She also commented on the sprinklers in Centennial Park used by village children to stay cool in the summer. Mayor Andru McCracken spoke of the Integrated Community Sustainability Plan, the Swift Creek emergency, fostering relations with the Simpcw First Nation, an industrial land use study and the Columbia River Treaty Local Government Committee. Then the floor was opened to the audience. A list of topics had been prioritized by interest and residents were given a set time to speak on the chosen topic. Toastmasters were on hand to moderate the discussion. Many residents used the open mike to express their concerns ranging from snow removal to bylaw enforcement. Residents offered many suggestions as to the efficiency of work performed by public works employees. In some instances, residents expressed their displeasure on such topics as the condition of the Saas Fee property located on the former high school grounds and the need to remove old signs for businesses that are no longer operating. The discussion surrounding the closure of Cypress Street was on occasion on the edge of being heated. Local resident Nick Beddington particularly disagreed with the closure and suggested the village should be spending money to upgrade

McBride, BC

250-569-3319

Carol Patton, CGA Certified General Accountant In Valemount every 2nd Wednesday of the month. 1-800-846-9190 or 250-672-9921

Driveways Parking Lots Excess Snow 1140 Main St.,Valemount - 250.566.9774

the street, not barricade it. Local resident and volunteer fire fighter Dave Craig suggested that, from the perspective of emergency response, closing any street was unwise. Many residents seemed to disagree with the village’s decision to rearrange public works staff in regard to garbage collection. Residents were asking for better pick-up times and some also expressed how much they missed Amanda Cameron, who once held the contract for garbage collection. “She [Cameron] was one hell of a worker,” commented area resident, Pat Bennett. Not all the comments directed at the mayor and council were critical. Residents also complimented the mayor and council for a job well done over the past year and acknowledge the difficult job they have undertaken. Local resident John Grogan thanked the mayor and council for organizing the town hall meeting and suggested they organize more in the future. The community discussion lasted well past the appointed two-hour designated time, however many residents wrote their comments on provided forms and the mayor assured residents all of the comments would be reviewed. The village will be compiling the comments and sharing the results with the public at a future date. According to the village office, discussions on future community conversations are ongoing, but as of yet no schedule or date has been decided upon. While the last community conversation has ended, the village is offering further feedback and comment. Residents or interested parties can email their comments and concerns to comments@ valemount.ca.

ANDREA SCHOLZ PHOTOS

Above: Valemount deputy corporate office Braden Hutchins at the community conversation on Nov. 29. Below: Pat Bennett eloquently voices her opinions to mayor and council.

Success by 6 funding opportunities Non-profit organizations between Dome Creek and Albreda are now invited to submit applications for funding through Success by 6. Applications for projects that make communities more family-friendly or support young children ages zero to six and their families through alignment with the Robson and Canoe Valley Community Plans, will be accepted until Dec. 31. The 2012 to 2014 Community Plan covers five strategic goals: 1. Promotion of early literacy. 2. Improvement of access to family support and behavioral support. 3. Promotion and education on the importance of early child development to increase referral for services. 4. Increasing knowledge and services for mental health for children. 5. On-going two and three-year-old screening and identification of children who may need extra services. A second funding opportunity is also available through Success by 6’s Aboriginal Engagement initiative, for projects that engage and support Aboriginal children ages zero to six and their families in the Robson and Canoe Valleys. Projects accepted would align with one or more of the priority areas, which have been identified as key to decreasing the number of vulnerable children and increasing the number of children thriving in British Columbia. Priority areas are: 1. Capacity building through partnerships that support Aboriginal children and families through community-driven approaches. 2. Cultural awareness. 3. Early child development awareness and promotion. Applications will be accepted until December 31. Success by 6 believes in helping all children succeed for life. Learn more about their goals, initiatives and projects at successby6bc.ca. Digital or hard-copy applications, assistance and further information are available from Success by 6 Outreach Co-ordinator Kim Thorn, at kthorn@cbal.org or 250-566-8467. Valley Sentinel Staff

Thursday, december 6, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

Governor General’s Academic Award presentation By AllAn Frederick reporter

MCBRIDE – On the morning of Sunday, Dec. 2 at the McBride Secondary School, the Honourable Judith Guichon personally presented to Paolino Pietro Caputo (Lino) the Governor General’s Academic Medal during a ceremony attended by family and close friends. The medal is awarded to students achieving outstanding scholastic achievements by graduating with the highest average from a high school, as well as approved college or university programs. Some of the past recipients include Pierre Trudeau, Tommy Douglas, Kim Campbell, Robert Bourassa, Robert Stanfield and Gabrielle Roy, over its 125-year history. Lino continues his education, attending Thompson River University in Kamloops, in a Fine Arts Degree program. After the presentation Guichon visited and talked with the recipient and guests over coffee.

On sunday dec. 2, Paolino Pietro caputo (Lino) received the Governor General’s Academic Medal from the Honourable Judith Guichon, lieutenant governor of British columbia, during a private ceremony attended by family and close friends at McBride Secondary School. AllAn Frederick PHOTOS

Jasperite chosen to dedicate time and talent in Ecuador By dAniel BeTTS editor

JASPER - Steven Harkema, who has lived his entire life in Jasper, realized he wanted to be a nurse while saving up for university and working in a long term care facility in his hometown. Now in his third year in the nursing program at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton, he now faces a new challenge while contributing to the world community. Harkema is one of two nursing students in Canada to be selected by the Canadian Association of Medical Teams Abroad (CAMTA) to travel to Quito, Ecuador to participate in an important humanitarian mission. CAMTA was formed by a small group of Edmontonbased health care practitioners and lay people who have traveled to Ecuador previously to provide orthopedic surgery to pediatric and adult patients, as well as provide continuing education on detection and treatment practices for medical personnel in Ecuador.

According to CAMTA, Ecuador has a high incidence of hip dysplasia, a birth defect that can cripple a person by age 30. Poverty and limited access to medical assistance often means children with these conditions live in pain and limited mobility their entire lives. “The idea is to provide free surgeries to those most in need who would most benefit,” explained Harkema. “This includes fathers and mothers who cannot afford these surgeries.” Harkema further explained that without these surgeries, those inflicted would be unable to keep a job and support their families. “Children who are still developing ... need them to continue to go to school and develop normally.” In February 2013, Harkema will join a team of 50, consisting of surgeons, paediatricians, registered nurses, interpreters, LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurse) and physiotherapists. The team will perform hip replacement surgeries, knee replacements and also assist with recovery. According to CAMTA, they perform as

many as 80 surgeries in the two-week period they are in Ecuador. Team members volunteer their time and expertise however they must raise the necessary funds to cover their travel and living expenses while participating in the mission. Harkema is calling on Jasper to assist in this worthy cause. “Jasper, in the past, has been an awesome resource for such projects and supporting locals,” said Harkema. According to CAMTA any funds raised above the amount needed for travel and expenses goes to pay for medical and surgical supplies, and equipment needed for their mission. For more information or if you are interested in assisting CAMTA and Harkema’s mission to Ecuador, you can contact Harkema directly at harkema.steven@ gmail.com or visit the CAMTA website at www.camta. com/about, where a “donate” button can also be found. editor@fitzhugh.ca

Below: Jasper municipal workers continue the task of snow removal on desginated streets on Tuesday, dec. 4. residents are reminded to move their cars during the designated snow removal day for their neighbourhood in order to assist. dAniel BeTTS PHOTO

On Tuesday, dec. 4 retired park warden and long time Jasper resident, Wes Bradford was making himself busy hanging christmas decoration at the front of his home at 714 Tonquin St., “before the temperature drops.” dAniel BeTTS PHOTO

Serving the robSon valley region & Jasper

the ﬁtzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

INBRIEF

NATIONAL PARK NEWS DECEMBER 6

Police seeking missing fried chicken sign

CROSS-COUNTRY TRACKSETTING BEGINS SOON!

The Police seeking missing fried chicken sign The Jasper RCMP detachment is seeking the public’s assistance to identify the person or persons responsible for the theft of the hanging wooden “KFC” sign stolen from Kentucky Fried Chicken at 640 Connaught Drive in Jasper. The theft occurred sometime overnight between 10 p.m. on Oct. 30 and 6 a.m. on Oct. 31. Anyone with any information regarding this occurrence should contact the Jasper RCMP Detachment directly at 780852-4421 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Coco’s Cafe craft night

Tackle that Christmas shopping list while supporting local crafters. Homemade Christmas cards, soaps, lotions, jewellery, beeswax candles, knitted headbands and other handmade crafts are available at the Coco’s Cafe craft night on Friday, Dec. 7 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wine and warm apple cider will also be served.

Decorate with Santa

Kids can help Santa decorate his tree on Saturday, Dec. 8 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Festival of Trees at the Japer Museum. Decorators have the opportunity to have their picture taken with him and also receive a free gift. Admission is free, but a food donation or gift for Santas Anonymous is appreciated.

Clock’s ticking on Valemount time capsule

With Valemount’s anniversary date quickly approaching, so too is the deadline for contributing to the time capsule. To date there has been some interesting items collected, but, even though space is limited, there is still room for more. Smaller items like postage stamps, coins, grocery receipts, photographs, and letters are preferable over larger bulkier items. Please contact Lorie McNee at the Valemount Village Office before Dec. 20 with any items that you would like to donate. The anniversary party held in October came in under budget, so the committee purchased a water proof, fireproof safe to be used as a time capsule. It will be locked and stored in an unspecified location, to be opened in 25 years at the 75th celebration.

Zumba and support junior basketball

Michele Dolhan is teaching a zumba class at Jasper Junior/Senior Secondary School on Saturday, Dec. 8 as a fundraiser for the junior basketball team she coaches. Zumba incorporates dance and aerobic elements into a fun, rhythmic workout. The lesson begins at 2 p.m. in the gym and cost is $10 per person and $5 per student.

Ski trail grooming is part science, part art, part magic and experience. Ski tracks can be set when conditions are an ideal mix of weather, snow level and snow condition. This initial set-up allows the trails to harden and provides a leveled base for skate and classic tracks. Traditionally, trails in our valley are track-set from approximately midDecember to mid-March, depending on conditions and capacity. This season, hard packing will begin in early December. For those chomping at the bit, there is also much fun to be had setting your own tracks along the trails. Similar to last season, the following 60 km of trail will be groomed on priority basis. High priority trails include Whistlers Campground, Whirlpool/ Leach Lake and Pyramid Fire Road. Lower priorities are Pipeline and Wabasso Campground, with Geraldine Fire Road and Summit Lakes set opportunistically. The Cavell Road opens for skiing Feb. 16, 2013. For more detailed information on these trails, visit our website at http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/jasper/ activ/hiver-winter.aspx. Dogs are welcome on the Pipeline, Wabasso Campground, Whirlpool, Pyramid Fire Road and Cavell Road trails. Please remember to keep your pets on-leash and clean up after them.

TRAIL CONDITIONS…

You can report trail conditions on the Jasper Trail Alliance or Jasper National Park Facebook pages. Trail condition reports are also available on the Jasper National Park website. ~ Parks Canada

Annual sale of Barb Brooks’ art beneﬁts memorial scholarship By SARAH MAKOWSKY Reporter/Photographer

JASPER - The memory of Jasper artist Barbara Brooks is preserved and celebrated through a scholarship fund for up-and-coming artists. Again this year on Dec. 10, Brooks’ work is on exhibition and for sale in room 12 in Building 32 in the Industrial Park from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Prints will be sold, and hopefully a 2013 calendar, said Marianne Garrah of Habitat for the Arts. Monies raised will benefit the Barbara Brooks scholarship fund. Two $500 scholarships are awarded each year. One goes to someone wishing to pursue a college or university program in the arts and the other is awarded to an artist wanting to attend a workshop or residency. “People can come in for a cup of tea or hot chocolate and a cookie and check out what’s new that’s come out of Barb’s portfolio,” said Garrah of the exhibition. “Every year we go into a box of her things that is still around and pick out three or four more [of Brooks’] pieces.” Brooks went to many workshops to “learn

techniques and new styles to keep a fresh outlook on things.” Brooks, a staple in the Jasper art scene since her arrival in 1976, was a visual artist and worked mostly with watercolour. She also experimented with encaustic painting, which is a wax resist, and played with solar inks and “all kinds of fun things,” said Garrah. “[Brooks] was a teacher for a lot of artists that started here.” People took classes from her, either as kids or at a workshop. A gallery representative in Edmonton, Era Rowles, also handles Brooks’ work. “They’ve been doing pretty good with the larger pieces that we can’t show in Jasper,” said Garrah. After her death in 2009, Brooks’ family purchased a bench in her memory out at Tekarra Lodge by the river and “any excess funds we get, we’ll get a plaque for the bench,” said Garrah. Both scholarships are open to all Alberta artists and applications are available at the fundraiser. June 2013 will mark the third year that the scholarships are handed out. More information on Brooks and the scholarships is available at www.barbbrooksartist.com.

Love a picture you see in the Fitzhugh or The Valley Sentinel? Get your reprint by calling 780.852.4888 or 250.566.4425

SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION & JASPER

Thursday, december 6, 2012 •

The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh

Something for the whole family!

u EpisodE 53: NO FREE RIDES v

Photo courtesy of the exploration Place Museum and Science Centre, Prince George, BC

ship’s officers strike a pose

“White flag on port side,” yelled the boatswain. The captain waved his hand to acknowledge the message and turned the ship towards the shore. Close to twenty men were waiting to be picked up. The gang-plank was lowered and they were quickly taken on board. The men were railway workers, bound for South Fort George. The captain backed the ship onto the river and they were off once again. As soon as Mr. Anders had dragged Jim Stocks, the purser, away from his dinner, he proceeded to solicit fares from the new passengers. The first man that Jim spoke to refused to pay. “I’m not paying,” said the fellow as cool as can be. “Let’s be reasonable,” said Jim. “I can cash your cheque.” “I’m not paying,” repeated the man. “I’ve laboured on this railway all year. I deserve a free fare. You can charge it to the Grand Trunk Pacific.” When the man still refused to pay his fare, Jim knew he was in a bit of a bind. He realized that if this railway worker succeeded in evading payment there would be no

hope in collecting fares from the other men. Jim called up to the captain in the wheel-house and explained the situation. Without hesitation the captain turned the ship about and made an upstream landing. He then ordered the ship moored. As soon as the captain was on the foredeck Jim pointed out the man who had refused to pay. Captain Baker repeated the purser’s request and when the man answered that he had no intention of paying, Baker stated that he would permit no one to travel on his ship for free. The captain called Mr. Hastings, Joe and another deckhand and pointed out the man. “Toss that stubborn gandee-dancer overboard!” barked the captain. In the next episode, MAN OVERBOARD, the captain makes his point and later Joe is selected to go on a landexcursion with Mr. Munshaw. llfrazer@telus.net

QUOTE of the week We’re really happy that we’re able to provide winter access to this area for everyone. Alisson Ogle on the 5th Bridge Solution at Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park

Serving the robSon valley region & Jasper

6 The Sentinel, VALLEY REGION • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012 the ﬁValley tzhugh, JASPER, ROBSON AB THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2009 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

THE END?

DAVE MARCHANT

VIEWPOINT By DANIEL BETTS, Editor

It was disturbing to hear last weekend that some of the young people in the community are expressing concerns about the arrival of Dec. 21. When most should be happily anticipating year-end celebrations and spending time with family, some are worried about an ominous date that many have exploited for financial gain. Not long ago the Cold War loomed over our heads filling our minds with terrifying visions of fiery mushroom clouds filling our horizon. These disturbing ideas were prevalent because two nuclear-powered nations rattled their sabres on the nightly news and Hollywood exploited the worst-case scenario. Rather than look to a single date with reluctance, we woke daily with relief to see that our landscape had not altered overnight. Now years later, with much thanks to Hollywood, a generation of young people are living in fear and anxiety surrounding a mythical date for the end of the world. Last weekend, a mother tried to reassure her child who insisted, “But what if it [the world] does end?” When analyzing a complex system, for some reason, humanity has a tendency to jump to the worst-case scenario. The Mayan calendar is a very scary looking and complex time keeping device. The long count of the Mayan calendar started approximately 5,000 years ago. Not only does it track Earth cycles, but lunar and Venetian cycles as well. To add to the confusion, the Mayan’s had a base 20 numerical system. Compare all of this with our very simple 365 day Gregorian calendar and you are presented with a confusing yet fascinating time keeping device. That being said, when we track through our own calendar, very few people worry about Dec. 31, as we know when it ends, we simply pick up a new calendar and start the cycle again. It has been suggested for many years in many expensive books written by exploitive writers that the complex nature of the Mayan calendar suggests it is some kind of doomsday clock, but what if there is a much simpler explanation? While the Mayan calendar ends on Dec. 21, despite its complexity, what if the most likely scenario is that the system simply is meant to reset? Perhaps the Mayan calendar and Earth aren’t any more connected than our own calendar. While the Mayan calendar is at best interesting, from a practical point of view, Dec. 21 simply denotes the winter solstice or the official start of winter and our traditional time of celebration. Even the Mayans themselves are planning a cultural celebration on Dec. 21 in an effort to assure the world that all is well. Even though some people in Europe are hording candles and food in panicky anticipation, the best way to prepare for the last week of December is to get ready to spend some quality time feasting and celebrating with family and loved ones. Of course, don’t forget to pick up a new calendar because you’ll need it the week after. editor@thevalleysentinel.com

Cantankerous Dear Editor: Imagine if our MPs felt obliged to represent our best interests. Wouldn’t that be great? They could sound the alarm when we were about to do “sumpthin” stupid. Like this whole selling tar balls to China thing. Sounds like a good gig, kind of like a vacation on the Titanic. Really, what could go wrong? Big honkin’ super tankers take miles to stop and don’t handle well at slow speeds. Storms and currents will push the boats off course. Each one carries enough hazardous material to screw up hundreds of miles of coast until long after your grandkids have grown up. Super tankers are so delicate that loading and unloading is done in special sequence or they break in half! Same rules apply for double hulled tankers. The reality is that when a tanker goes off course the momentum from 900 million pounds of Fort Mac black will press her guts out on any coastline she chances to hit. What passes for “cleanup” usually compounds the disaster. Dispersants dumped at spill sites are only to make the mess less visible. Most dispersants are deadly toxic to man and beast alike. Our MPs have full access to Transport Canada and how they assess risk. Transport Canada does not say that oil spills are preventable they only introduce regulation as a way to reduce frequency. Even Enbridge recognizes the hazards; still they want to run about ﬁve shipments per week. 250 tankers per year where presently we have none. In plain language, “if yer gonna have tankers, yer gonna trash yer coastline.” What kind of economy is that? Maybe the reefs and islands in the Douglas Channel aren’t on your Member of Parliament’s radar, or maybe MPs 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

only exist to enforce party doctrine. Either way responsible Canadians are forced to ﬁght both industry and government to protect our coastal heritage. Regulation is not protection; refusing tanker trafﬁc is the only reasonable solution. Brian McKirdy Valemount, B.C.

Legion appreciation Dear Editor: On behalf of the members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #266, I sincerely thank you [The Valley Sentinel] for the promotion you do for Remembrance Day and for your coverage of the Remembrance Day events. The media is indeed the most important player when we try to convey the message of remembrance and your newspaper layout was again excellent. The new format of the newspaper is well done and is very appealing also. Best regards. Les Dammann, Poppy Chairman. Valemount, B.C.

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 6, 2012 • roBson vallEy rEgion,

The Valley Sentinel

RDFFG board meeting highlights from Nov. 15 By rEnEE MCCloskEy regional district of Fraser Fort-george, manager of external relations

Foothills Swap Shed approved for closure Directors with the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George have approved closing the swap shed at the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill, effective Dec. 1. A staff report presented to the board cited an increase in incidents that make the management of the facility more involved and difficult, increasing liability concerns for the Regional District. The Regional District will continue promotion and education of reuse, reduce and recycle concepts, such as the recent “Junk in your trunk” sale with REAPS in October.

• • • • •

playground expenses. $15,000 to the Willow River Volunteer Fire Department for operating expenses. $25,000 to the Crooked River-Parsnip Community Endowment Fund. $1,860 to the Dome Creek Community Association for foundation repair completion. $450 to the Robson Valley Support society for hall rentals. $5,000 to VARDA for snowmobile hosts costs

Electoral Area Directors also made contributions to support the work of the North West Invasive Plant Council. A total of $26,000 in grant funding was provided to all seven electoral areas.

Update from UnBc Rob Van Adrichem, vice president of external relations with UNBC provided directors with an update on university projects, priorities and successes. Information was provided about the success of UNBC alumni and the impact they are having in our region. According to a recent survey, 70 per cent of UNBC graduates from 2009 are living and working in Northern B.C. Update from nDiT Representatives from Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) provided an overview of their programs and successes. They also presented information on the regional development accounts NDIT holds. In the Prince George region, there are nine segregated funds specific to each municipality and regional district in the area, and one shared loan account. NDIT is suggesting consolidating the regional development accounts, saying that a pooled approach provides long term sustainability while maximizing funding outflow. They also advised that a pooled approach in combination with some new programs can provide an increase of up to $1.5 million in annual grant funding per regional account. Tete Jaune cemetery referendum results In a referendum on Nov. 3, electors in the Tete Jaune area were asked to vote on whether they were in favour of borrowing not more than $83,280 for a term not to exceed 10 years to establish a community cemetery service. Official voting results show that 32 people voted yes, while 28 voted no. community grants The board approved the following requests for Community and Recreation Grants: • $4,000 to the Beaverly Firefighters Association for department uniform jackets. • $7,465 to the Miworth Community Association for insurance, utility and phone expenses. • $25,000 to Chilako River-Miworth Community Endowment Fund. • $3,000 to the Hixon Community Association for programs, aquatics and

Mr. Fox demonstrates community care and concern Dear Editor, The downtown streets are treacherous. I understand the debate between the village and downtown businesses regarding whose responsibility it is for all of the snow removal is at an impasse. In the meantime, streets remain treacherous. On Friday, Nov. 30, while cautiously walking toward the drugstore, I saw someone using a shovel to break up thick ice on the village side of the curb. It was Peter Fox. When I spoke with him, he declared his concern about the hazardous condition for pedestrians. I should like to extend sincere gratitude and appreciation to Mr. Fox for demonstrating concretely his care for the safety of his neighbours and visiting pedestrians. It is unfortunate for the taxpayers that the same concern does not exist at the village office. Thank you, Peter. Jeannette Townsend Valemount, B.C.

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.

Valemount Learning Centre

250-566-4601

LOCALJOB JOB LOCAL POSTINGS POSTINGS

Updated DEC. 6, 2012 Updated December 5, 2012

                  

Bartender Cashiers Cook/Chef Food Service Counter Attendants/Cooks Front Desk Groomer Operator House Cleaner Housekeepers Housekeeping Runner Maintenance Person Night Audit Paramedic/EMR Public Area Cleaner Red Cross Swimming Instructor Sales and Catering Position Short Order Cook Specialty Cook (International Cuisine) Taxi Driver Traffic Control Person

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

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

www.valemountlearningcentre.org Box 789 Valemount BC

V0E 2Z0 250-566-4601

The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government

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

PhoTo suBMiTTEd By MiChEllE nElson

MCBridE - on Monday, nov. 26, the McBride Centennial school students got involved in the “movember” movement, a fundraising event throughout the month of november that is meant to bring attention to men’s health. students at the school wore their moustaches with pride and seemed to enjoy their fun new look. students from left to right: sydney devries, lennah Fox and londyn shawara.

the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • Thursday, december 6, 2012

McBride’s Roundhouse Theatre packed for

The Bright Side by allan Frederick reporter

MCBRIDE - An enthusiastic audience attended the sold-out showing of The Bright Side, on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 29. A second showing on Nov. 30, was also well attended at the Roundhouse Theatre. The play was the latest offering from Wishbone Theatre Productions. Local Dunster resident Sharon Stearns wrote the play. With minimal sets, the troupe generated audience laughter throughout the play. Following the show, audience members expressed positive feelings and agreed a good night of locally produced entertainment was thoroughly enjoyed. Cast members included writer Sharon Stearns, Seth Macdonald, Shara Gustafson, Bob Thompson, Monica Zieper, Bridget Uhl and Miwa Hiroe.

allan Frederick PhOTO

The Bright Side entertained a mcbride audience on nov. 29.

No Interest in Valemount dam: BC Hydro by marie birkbeck reporter

VALEMOUNT - Representatives of Columbia River Treaty (CRT), BC Hydro, CBT Special Initiatives, and Ministry Energy and Mines were in Valemount on Thursday Nov. 22 to bring the residents of Columbia River Basin up to date on the progress of the CRT. During the spring consultations in Valemount, it was determined that there is a fair amount of interest in maintaining a stable high water level in a small portion of the northwest end of Kinbasket Reservoir through the construction of a water retention structure, either a weir or a damn. Based on feedback from these presentations, BC Hydro agreed to carry out a feasibility study without detailed geotechnical investigations and other costly engineering work. About 25 people attended the CRT presentation to hear about the progress of the CRT and to learn the outcome of this study; unfortunately, the answer was not what the residents wanted to hear. Due to the high cost of the dam, the impracticality of power generation at the site, and the potential impacts of the dam on other interests, the construction of a water retention structure – either a weir or a dam at the northwest end of the Kinbasket Reservoir does not appear to be viable and BC Hydro has no current plans to investigate the Valemount dam project further. Likewise, although there has been no engineering study done, a dam at the southeast end of Kinbasket reservoir at Golden, is expected to be as large, if not larger than the one at Valemount and be more costly, and has also been rejected as a viable project by BC Hydro. BC Hydro has determined that the water retention structure, due to its size and complexity, would be a dam, not a weir. For the purpose of the study, several potential sites were identified. Preliminary concept sketches provided visual support aids for the estimate. No actual sites were visited. During the study, the committee assumed that: • The underlying soils can support a

•

• •

dam at the proposed sites Suitable access sources of a dam building materials would be available within five kilometres of the proposed dam axis Excess excavated materials could be disposed of within the existing Kinbasket Reservoir A construction camp would be set up near the site

There were also a number of uncertainties identified that could have a negative impact on the project: • Geotechnical conditions may be present that could make the project unfeasible • There may not be adequate supply of construction materials within a reasonable distance or access to the site • Excavated materials may not be permitted within Kinbasket Reservoir, for environmental or other reasons, increasing transportation and disposal costs • Labor and materials market condition may be different at the time the project is actually tendered and constructed. • High/record inflows during construction could cause significant damage to the dam construction and delay or frustrate the project Additionally, it was determined that it is not considered practical, safe or economical to install a powerhouse to take advantage of the head and flow available at the site. Consequently, water released via a spillway could cause undesirable air entrapment and increase total gas pressure resulting in potential negative impacts on fish, fish habitat, as well as forestry, recreation and transportation. Total project cost of a Kinbasket Dam is estimated to be roughly $500 million dollars. The total project cost estimate falls in the range of $250 million to one billion dollars. Estimates do not include PST, GST, outage costs, and costs associated with spilling water. It also excludes any third party compensation from lost access, environmental mitigation and compensation and First Nations benefits. It was confirmed that no business case

has been addressed, and no positive aspects or potential development have been investigated to date. For more information on this and other projects or to join the discussion please visit www.gov.bc.ca/columbiarivertreaty or http://www.cbt.org/ CRT is also on Facebook and Twitter During the open discussion it became clear that many in the room felt that our community is not being adequately compensated by the provincial government in term of flood protection and job creation to name a few and that these issues should

be investigated further. With that in mind, an ad-hoc committee was formed to investigate the future of the village, compensation for lake, and study lost opportunities. The group was reminded by past mayor, Jeannette Townsend that there was an impact study completed several years ago, addressing these concerns which would provide valuable insight to the committee. A meeting date has not been set yet. If you have an interest in being on this committee, please contact Mayor McCracken at the village office 250-566-4435.

despite cold weather, snow and decreasing daylight construction of a new housing project along bonhomme street, between lodgepole street and Popular street, continues. delnor construction hope to have a number of foundations completed by christmas.

Serving Jasper & the robSon valley region

daniel beTTs PhOTO

Thursday, december 6, 2012

WEEKLYLHOROSCOPE

BY MICHAEL O’CONNOR

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

A busy pace continues and you are covering a lot of ground. Yet spurred on by various ambitions and perhaps a host of duties you are willing to do what you must. Yet, may thoughts about how things can and will be different are running beneath the surface of daily communications. Meanwhile completing and creating closure somehow feels good, right and necessary.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

Some cycles are bigger, deeper, more intense and or involved and passionate than others, like the current one. A steady deepening of commitments with a long-term focus on the future is featured. Yet rather than feel contracted, you feel expansive, exuberant and willing. Yes, the work load is heavier than it used to be but you are okay with that. Go figure!

emini (May 21 – Jun 21 While the focus remains on health and strengthening your overall constitution and/or fortifying your base continues, you want to get out, to play. Meeting new people is in the mix. Experiencing the unexpected with people has been a standing theme for a while and you are ready for a change that way. Expect to take new leads this week.

• The Valley Sentinel/the fitzhugh 9

ibra (Sep 22 – Oct 22) It is said that the karmic lords never sleep and they never forget. Life knows who we are, what is owed to us and what we owe. Graceful acceptance of the dues and penalties as well as the rewards is a sign of true wisdom. Reaction, blame and self pity only serve to deepen the suffering. Fortunately, the light of a new day is steadily growing.

Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21)

A pioneering mood is lingering. You have been seeking new answers, insights and leads. Now you may have to contend with deciphering which ones are the best. The likely answer is: those that stand to reach furthest into the future. The best choices usually involve a tight weave between health and a genuine sense of service, which is truly a privilege to render.

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21)

You are in the mood to enter new territory. Yet, you may feel both called within and without. To reconcile this conflict consider the famous lyrics, ‘you gotta get in to get out’. Listening to your inner voice and heeding its urgings is the ageless wisdom. Be extra careful of excessive logic now. To trust your feelings, acknowledge them and feel your silent truth.

apricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) The returns for many of your past efforts are rolling in now. Hopefully they are the kind you want. You may feel the need for some time out to manage the flow effectively. Be deliberate and concise with your communications, unless the exchange is deep, sincere and valuable. Your ability to make fine distinctions now is at a peak, make the most of it.

ancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22) Oh to be free of fear and worry. It sounds easy, so why isn’t it? Too much thinking is the classic issue. Some would say excess lower mind, that of the ego. Worry can be interpreted as caring, but it actually does not help much, if at all. Practicing being present in the moment with ‘what is’, is the classic solution. Genuine gratitude for life helps and meditation is the real deal.

Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19)

eo (Jul 22 – Aug 23) Your world is opening up in new and exciting ways. With the crack in the door and the light coming in you are wise to do what it takes to swing it wide open. Laying claim to latent gifts and talents meanwhile, is stirring at deeper levels. These require vision and courage. If you are having trouble seeing this light, seek counsel and do it now!

isces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Getting the attention you feel you want and deserve is a current focus. A learning curve is implied. Perhaps you need to increase your social media skills or learn how to ask for a raise. Either way, it is important that you be pro-active and give to the situation. Your confidence levels should be rising steadily these days so ride that wave!

irgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) A dynamic learning curve continues and the lessons are coming from all angles, some unexpected. The time is right to flirt with new possibilities. The tried and true, at least in some areas, is beginning to lie. Since two wrongs don’t equal right, your best option is to redirect your focus towards more truthful, stable and reliable sources.

You are in the mood to cut loose, get away, break free. A creative diversion might help. Yet, you may feel duty bound and restricted. How can you take good care of yourself in this stressful cycle? Patience is one way. The coming New Moon cycle will bring some needed relief. That is in one week. Accept this time as one of building character.

LAST WEEKS ANSWERS

Serving Jasper & the robSon valley region

the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • Thursday, december 6, 2012

Jasper Film Club presents: Stories We Tell by Sarah Polley JASPER - Stories We Tell combines Sarah Polley’s fascination with relationships and her desire to experiment with storytelling in the hopes of revealing the many truths that exist simultaneously. “Since I was about 19 or 20, I’ve been thinking about these things, which is why every short film I’ve ever made, as well as Away from Her and Take This Waltz, are about longterm relationships,” she said. “But if I have learned anything from making this film, it is that we can’t all be right and we can’t all be wrong. So we must be unintentionally distorting things to varying degrees in order to feed our own version of what we need the past and history to be, and in our way, we must all be telling the truth as well.” After taking a profound journey through memory, truth and revelation to create Stories We Tell, Polley has a better understanding of what makes a family. “Family is who you’ve had experiences with, who has been there for better or for worse.” Stories We Tell is being presented tonight, Thursday, Dec. 6, at the Chaba Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Fitzhugh Staff

Third Branch plays at De’d Dog by sarah makowsky reporter/Photographer

;

SHOWTIMES December 7 to December 13 Friday & Saturday 7:00 PM & 9:10 PM Sunday to Thursday 8:00 PM ONLY Matinees

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 1:30 PM

RATED G 3D

$3.00 SURCHARGE FOR 3D TITLES

SHOWTIMES December 7 & 8, 11-13 Friday & Saturday 6:50 PM & 9:10 PM Tuesday to Thursday 8:00 PM ONLY Matinees SATURDAY 1:30 PM

RATED 18A SUBSTANCE ABUSE

DECEMBER DEC 9 & 10 BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR AT 7:30 PM ONLY

TWIN SCREEN

CINEMA CENTRE

24-HR INFO LINE 780-852-4749 • ACROSS FROM THE TRAIN STATION

JASPER - The eclectic sound waves of Third Branch are set to happily vibrate ear drums at the De’d Dog Bar and Grill on Dec. 7 and 8. The group from Edmonton, who classify themselves as reggae/electro, play at 9 p.m. both nights and there’s no cover charge. Third Branch incorporates traditional elements of ska (Caribbean mento, jazz, rhythm and blues) with electronic undertones and melodic vocals. A variety of percussion instruments are also used, including the djembe, that help punctuate the upbeat tunes. The band is fairly new on scene, having formed in 2011. They released their debut, self-titled album in June 2012 and spent the summer playing

in festivals, like Open Sky Music Festival, Sasquatch Gathering and Calgary International Reggae Festival. This budding, group emits an energetic groove sure to keep you

swaying throughout their entire set. To learn more about Third Branch and hear snippets of their music before the show, visit www.3thirdbranch.com.

Luke Dowler at the Whistle Stop Dec. 10 by daniel beTTs editor

JASPER - In 2007 Luke Dowler wrote a single called Silence is Shameful expressing his concern for human trafficking around the globe. Last year, Dowler recorded the song and created an accompanying YouTube video, depicting the plight of a young girl at the hands of her oppressor. That video has had over 14,000 views. In support

of this cause, Dowler is donating 70 per cent of iTunes proceeds for the single to the International Justice Mission, a human rights organization that “secures justice for victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression.” “I hope it provokes change,” said Dowler, who is taking the opportunity to spread the word about human trafficking. Dowler, who currently lives in Whitefish, Mont. is on his “Won’t Burn Out Quiet Tour” in celebration of his new record, Polarized. He and his band will be playing at the Whistle Stop Pub on Dec. 10. Dowler’s last visit to Jasper was in April.

PROGRAM SUBJECT TO UNAVOIDABLE CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Serving Jasper & the robSon valley region

“I’m excited to come back,” he said, noting he is anxious to play material from his new record to his Jasper audience.

Thursday, dECEMBEr 6, 2012 • roBson vallEy rEgion,

The Valley Sentinel

Babysitters course for valley students By allan FrEdEriCk Reporter

ROBSON VALLEY REGION - Twenty girls and boys ages 10 to 13 from both Valemount and McBride attended a Canada Safety Council Babysitters Course on Friday, Nov. 30 and Saturday Dec. 1 at the Valemount Learning Centre. Beth Frederick provided instruction. The course is designed to give potential babysitters the training needed to care for children. The course includes the rights and responsibilities of all three parties; the child, the employer (parents) and the babysitter. Its components teach child development, food and nutrition, as well as indoor and outdoor safety, handling emergency situations, activities, caring, guidance and discipline. “The course is 10 hours long and has a lot of information,” said Frederick. She has tweaked the course in order for all the students to have fun. Frederick explained that young people learn more in a fun environment and more importantly, retain more of the material. Canada Safety Council manual guidelines are followed, but Frederick adds a special touch to the course by “including songs, activities and a bit of sign language to make it more interesting.” “In my own line of work as daycare manager and supported child development consultant, I am aware that all children are unique and it is important to teach inclusion, where all children have different strengths and needs,” said Frederick. She would like the upcoming sitters to know how to look after all children and how to adapt an activity to a child that may be unique. Frederick also states that she brings in an element of social media. “Facebook, for an example, is huge with everyone these days, and I teach how important it is to be respectful on these sites and how it portrays their reputation.” Frederick also teaches the students that babysitting is an important job for these young people as they are taking on the responsibility of looking after children. “I want them to know how to show respect and also want them to be respected.” All 20 students passed their exam and in asking the students how they enjoyed the course responses, like “fun and educational” and “exquisite” were offered. One participant claimed, “ I loved it and wish I could take it again, but I passed.” While the ages of the students included 10 to 13-year-olds, their certificate isn’t valid until they turn 12.

Parents can use their own discretion about whom they use for a sitter. For anyone who missed out on the course, contact Beth Frederick at Robson Valley Support Society at 250-569-2266 for the next course availability.

MariE BirkBECk PhoTo

Above: Beth Fredrick taught a babysitting course to 20 enthusiastic young adults on Friday, nov 30.

Heathwise: Nice, warm and safe By laura Johnson Contributor

Winter; fresh, and cool, but sometimes downright cold. Especially the floor when we hop out of bed in the morning. Our quiet evenings with a book or favourite TV show now has us reaching for a favourite blanket, cup of tea, and turning up the thermostat, or lighting the fire in the wood stove. Ah, the warmth of a fire is so comforting, so inviting, such a normal part of our winters. It’s hard to believe that in the middle of all our comfort and presumed safety, that we may be putting families and ourselves at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Man that sounds serious. Well, it can be. According to Wikipedia.org., “Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of injury and death due to poisoning worldwide.” The colorless, odourless, tasteless gas is produced when you use your wood stove without enough air or oxygen. It happens when you light up a cigarette, idle your car or truck or other internal combustion engine in your closed garage, use propane fuelled equipment, such as portable stoves, gas powered leaf blowers, the list goes on. Carbon monoxide is produced when the burning of organic matter, like wood or gas, doesn’t have enough oxygen to burn completely. Instead of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide is produced. Unless your stove is properly vented, and other sources too, you are at risk. In fact, if you have a leak between your exhaust manifold in your car, and the cab of your vehicle, you are probably breathing in carbon monoxide every time you drive. Are you sure that you suffer from motion sickness? Maybe, if your vehicle needs a bit of repair work done, you are actually exposing yourself to carbon monoxide poisoning. It doesn’t just happen with cars and trucks. Wikipedia shares an interesting fact about some small aircraft. The cabin heating system comprises a shroud around the exhaust. Any break in the system, could have the gases coming into the cabin, where you breathe them in. Our bodies breathe in air. The air has oxygen and lots of other things in it. Then our bodies pick up what we need, and we breathe the rest of it back out. If the air we breathe has things in it that are harmful, sometimes our bodies can’t tell. In the case of carbon monoxide, where the gas is colorless, odourless, and tasteless, it’s pretty hard for us to realize we may be in trouble. Adding to this is the fact that the same thing in our blood that transports oxygen also transports carbon monoxide. Also, a carbon monoxide molecule is 230 times easier for our bodies to transport than oxygen. So, if you are in an environment that has oxygen and carbon monoxide, your body will probably pick up the carbon monoxide, leaving no room for the oxygen. If this goes on for a period of time, you will become gravely ill and die. If the concentration is strong, you can be dead in a matter of minutes. If you are pregnant and are exposed even at lower concentrations over a period of time, it may harm your baby. Every year we hear on the news about folks who were just trying to keep warm so they light a fire. The next day, a neighbour found everyone unconscious, and called for help. Sometimes the medical community can help, sometimes if your body has been poisoned with too much for too long, and not enough oxygen, they may not be able to do much at all. And, sometimes the affects can impair your nervous system, harm your heart, or have other long lasting health implications. On the market are carbon monoxide detectors. They are relatively inexpensive, and most folks have them or are planning on putting them into their home. They are like smoke detectors, but instead of smoke, they detect carbon monoxide. They can be lifesavers. If you have a wood stove, make sure you have followed the manufacturer’s directions, and if you have other concerns, check them out. So tonight when you sit down with your cup of tea, curled up warm in a blanket by the fire, you can rest comfortably knowing carbon monoxide isn’t sneaking up on you, as you doze off.

MariE BirkBECk PhoTo

above: The BC Boys Choir captures the attention of the audience on Friday, nov 30. at the valemount Community Theatre.

Valemount spellbound by the BC Boys Choir By MariE BirkBECk Contributor

VALEMOUNT – Valemount Community Theatre was the first stop for 39 members of the British Columbia Boys Choir on their Northern B.C. Tour. The choir performed its Christmas concert “Comfort and Joy” on the evening of Friday, Nov. 30. Led by associate conductor Edette Gagne, and accompanied on the piano by Patricia Plumley, the perfectly blended, perfectly orchestrated voices held the Valemount audience spellbound. For their closing song, they performed Silent Night, first in German and then in English, and the audience felt transcended to the centre of the universe. The boys were billeted out to a number of homes in the area, giving them an opportunity to get to know new people and a bit about life in a small community. From Valemount, the choir made their way up to Prince George and will hit several other communities before arriving back in Vancouver. To celebrate its 45th anniversary in 2014, the choir will be taking their tour across Canada.

The Valley Sentinel, robson valley region • Thursday, deCeMber 6, 2012

McBride Emergency Responders Christmas party and awards

Valemount Learning Centre

Upcoming Classes

**FREE Senior’s Drop-In Computer Classes** The Valemount Learning Centre is offering FREE basic computer lessons for seniors on Thursday evenings in our computer lab from 5:30-7:30. Please just drop by or call. Please call the Valemount Learning Centre to register or for more information 250-566-4601. **Memory Album For Christmas** Wednesday, Dec. 10 and 17 from 6-8 p.m. Cost $50.40 includes HST and supplies. Bring your favorite pictures and Christmas wrapping paper, ribbon etc. and learn how to scrapbook on a budget and create a beautiful Christmas Album for someone special. **Vegetarian Cooking Class** Sunday, Jan. 13 from 1-3 p.m. Cost $35+HST. Join and prepare and sample a vegetarian dish and a beef dish. Take home the tasty recipes and many helpful kitchen hints and tricks from a Swiss/Mauritius trained chef! **Basic Beginner Guitar Lessons** Starting Wednesday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 16 to Feb. 20. Cost $60+HST. You will need a guitar. Please join us and learn basic chords, barre chords, basic strumming and finger picking techniques. You will be playing a song at the end of the 6 sessions! Please call the Valemount Learning Centre to register or for more information 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. 1201 - 5th Ave., Box 789, Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0 Valemount Monday to Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Learning Centre

House of Jasper Silver Studio

OPEN 11 AM - 3 PM every weekend until Christmas Located next to the historic church on 141 Dominion St. in McBride, BC

PhoTos by allan FrederiCk

above: Chief dave hruby and Courtney lipke, who was selected by his peers as Firefighter of the year. upper left: sparky aided by Martina Wall and luc Wagner. By allan FrederiCk Reporter

MCBRIDE – On Saturday evening, Nov. 24, the Emergency Responders Christmas Party and the McBride and District Firefighters Awards were held at the Elk’s Hall. The hall was filled with 105 people, including many family members and dignitaries from Prince George and Valemount. Members of the local RCMP dressed in their Red Serge uniforms, while ambulance members and firefighters wore their dress uniforms for the event.

Presentations included a 25-year pin for Mike Kelley, 20-year pins to Ole Quam, Joey Quam and Christine Monroe and a 10-year pin to Martina Wall. Firefighter Courtney Lipke was named the Firefighter of the Year, as voted on by his peers. Sparky made an appearance, and was well received by the children in attendance. He presented gift bags for all kids under 12 and a special coffee gift pack for the RCMP and Ambulance Service group. Special attendees were the “Fire Chief for a Day” winners from the McBride Centennial School, Cailey McFarland and from the Robson Valley Junior Academy, Noel Lorenz.

Valemount Public Library Adult ﬁction

Victims ~ Jonathan Kellerman Mark of the witch ~ Maggie Shayne Deaf sentence ~ David Lodge The gypsy tearoom ~ Nicky Pellegrino Ardor ~ Lily Prior 1225 Christmas tree lane ~ Debbie Macomber An angel for Christmas ~ Heather Graham Death beneﬁt ~ Robin Cook The race ~ Clive Cussler Shock wave ~ John Sandford

New at the McBride Public Library Get a jump start on your Canada Reads titles: Indian Horse – Richard Wagamese The Age of Hope – David Bergen Away – Jane Urquhart Two Solitudes – Hugh MacLennan February – Lisa Moore (arriving soon) Other Adult Fiction: The Bone Bed – Patricia Cornwell Flight Behavior – Barbara Kingsolver Into the Abyss – Carol Shaben Adult Nonfiction Made from Scratch- Jenna Woginrich Days of Destruction, Days of Revolt- Chris Hedges & Joe Sacco Help, It’s Broken!- Arianne Cohen Junior: Migrant- Maxine Trottier A Christmas Carol- Jennifer Adams Pete the Cat Saves Christmas- James Dean Wintergirls – Laurie Halse Anderson

We’re now open on Thursdays between 10am – 5pm all year long. Drop in to pick up a great book or use our free internet. 250-569-2411 / library@mcbridebc.org

www.mcbride.bclibrary.ca

Adult non-ﬁction

Tinnitus treatment toolbox ~ J. L. Mayes

Junior

Star Wars character encyclopedia ~ Simon Beecroft Star Wars the complete visual dictionary ~ David West Reynolds Star wars clone wars character encyclopedia

DVD

Valemount Public Library

Inglorious bastards Tell no one Wordplay

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

http://valemount.bclibrary.ca

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012 • ROBSON VALLEY REGION,

The Valley Sentinel

Holiday cheer: McBride Festival of Lights

Santa comes to town By ALLAN FREDERICK Reporter

MCBRIDE - On Friday, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m., Santa began the Festival of Lights with a parade that brought him to McBride on board the Fire Department Rescue vehicle. Once Santa arrived at the Elk’s Hall, approximately 80 children stood patiently in line to have a chance to tell him how good they have been and ask to have their wishes fulﬁlled. Late night shopping for the local merchants was somewhat quieter than previous years, but the early morning cold winter weather may have been a factor. There were 12 merchants participating in the Passport to Christmas program, sponsored by the local McBride and District Chamber of Commerce (MDCC). Cash awards, one for $250 and two for $100, will be drawn by the MDCC in January 2013, at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting.

PHOTO BY ALLAN FREDERICK

Santa gets a lift through downtown McBride on the back of a Fire Department Rescue vehicle on Nov. 23.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF MY VALUED CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

WISHING YOU A VERY HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON!

ing p p Sho tre t h Nig ng Cenu at my e e t r i 7 La Learn seeing yiong Cent ” . c De t the ard to Learn GGLES a forw the GI in k S& I loo e set up SHIRT tabl T FOR S “JU

CHRISTMAS SPECIALS !

Buy 2 fleece hoodies get 1 free 10% off all garment sales(excluding hoodies) Receive a mystery gift with your order when you bring in this ad. Garment sales for every need: winterwear, safetywear, sportwear, accessories, hoodies, t-shirts, uniforms, jerseys, sweatpants and more. Over 10,000 styles of hats, caps and toques available. Over 100,000 ready to sew designs available. Custom digitizing done on site. Screenprinting available. Orders placed by December 10th will be ready for Christmas.

Call Wendy: 250 566 9096 or Cell: 250 612 2820 Visit my website: sewhot.ca or email: wendy@sewhot.ca

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

1.888.611.5557

SANTA PHOTOS from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at THe gathering Tree Warm up by a hot fire and Enjoy Complimentary Hot Chocolate at A CUT ABOVE

Valemount LATE NIGHT SHOPPING Passport On Dec. 7, 2012 between 5 p.m. & 9 p.m. visit these businesses to receive a stamp on that square. Take this card with all stamps filled in to the IGA by noon the next day where on Dec. 8 at 12 noon two draw prizes will be awarded. A large gift basket will be drawn that will include gifts from each of these businesses. A second smaller basket will also be drawn. Maximum of 1 passport/person, must be 12 or older to participate. Acadian Stones Jewelry at The Gathering Tree

Infinity Office & Health

Unique Boutique Salon & Spa

A Cut Above

IRLY Building Centre

Valemount Learning Centre

Alpine Country Rentals

Noreen’s Hair Design

Valemount IDA

Bear Paw Den Quilting

Petro-Canada

Valemount Car Wash

Canoe Mountain Extreme Sports

The Crafter’s Guild

LORDCO

Mountain Bargain

The Gathering Tree

Caribou Grill

2 for 1 Special No stamp necessary

The following businesses will be open and have also contributed to the gift baskets. Visit them and see what specials they have in store for you: Caribou Grill - on passport with specials The Great Escape IGA

Your name:

Pepe’s Pizza Signs & Framing by Countrywide Diamond H Donairs

Your phone number: Thank you to all of these businesses for their contributions to this event!

The Valley Sentinel, robson valley region • Thursday, deCeMber 6, 2012

Getting your horse safely through winter By birgiT sTuTz Contributor

Cold temperatures, snow and ice have arrived in the valley, bringing with them their own set of challenges for horses and horse owners. Falling temperatures, wind, rain, sleet and snow put an enormous demand on your horse’s body for heat production. While horses acclimatize to winter conditions extremely well, they do need protection from the elements. A horse’s first defence against the cold is his thick, long winter coat. Cold weather causes the hair to stand up, trapping and retaining body heat, thus acting as an insulator. However, once the coat becomes wet, the hair lies flat and loses its insulating qualities. Providing some form of shelter to your horse is therefore essential. This can be as elaborate as a barn, or just a run-in shed. Even a shelterbelt or a bluff of trees that minimizes the effects of strong winds may be enough protection. Providing some sort of shelter for your horse will require less feed and will allow your horse to maintain his body weight more easily. In cold weather, horses need extra feed to maintain their body condition and body temperature. Temperature, wind chill, moisture and coat thickness all play a role in your horse’s energy requirements. As well, if your horse’s coat becomes wet, he requires more energy. Feeds vary in the amount of internal body heat produced when digested by a horse, depending on their fibre content. Fibre is utilized through bacterial fermentation within the cecum and large intestine. Hay has a much higher fibre content than grain so more heat is produced in the horse’s gut when feeding hay as opposed

Falling star ranch horses in the snow.

to grain. Thus, your horse’s increased energy requirements are better met and he can more easily maintain his body heat by providing him with all the hay he can eat rather than increasing his grain. Mature horses in good condition usually don’t need grain to meet their elevated energy requirements if they have good winter pasture or good quality grass hay and access to shelter. Young horses, geriatric horses, broodmares and horses in poor condition or those “hard-keepers” who have difficulty maintaining body condition may need alfalfa hay along with their pasture or grass hay to provide the extra calories they need. Grain, beet pulp, alfalfa pellets or alfalfa cubes are other options.

VALEMOUNT VILLAGE OFFICE will be closed

December 21, 2012 at 12:30 and will re-open

January 2, 2012

For those of you wishing to make payments to your tax or utility account, the following payment options are available: • On-line banking • Telephone banking • Bank machine • Mail • Village Office drop box (located on front office door) All deposits and payments must be in the Village bank account or received by staff prior to opening of business January 2, 2013 These payments will be receipted to December 31, 2012

Have a Wonderful Christmas & Holiday Season!

PhoTos CourTesy oF Falling sTar ranCh

Vegetable oil and rice bran are two easy ways to provide calories without significant extra bulk. Feed your horse at least twice a day, preferably three times. It’s important to consider the severity and duration of the cold, windy, and wet conditions before altering your horse’s diet. Any change in diet needs to be made gradually as sudden increases may lead to colic or laminitis. Increases in hay are easier to tolerate than increases in the amount of grain. Check the hay for mould and dust. With the short winter days, it is often dark at feeding time, making it more difficult to check the quality of the hay. It is a good idea to open your bales in daylight and sort your hay when you can see. Don’t forget to check your horse’s body condition periodically as thick, long winter coats can be very deceptive regarding a horse’s true body condition. Palpating your horse for fat deposits along his neck, withers, ribs, and hips to determine how much flesh is under all that hair is important. Using a weight tape to measure your horse’s weight can be a big asset. Access to fresh water is important yearround. However, horses tend to drink less than they need in cold weather so make sure that water is easily accessible and appealing. If the water is ice-cold, horses will drink less. A horse that isn’t consuming enough water may eat less and may lose weight or be less able to keep warm. As well, reduced water intake, combined with increased forage consumption, can lead to a greater incidence of impaction and colic. While horses will eat snow, having no other source of moisture available to the horse is counterproductive. A horse at pasture may manage fine if the snow isn’t covered with a crust, but there is always some risk of impaction. As well, it takes six times as much snow to provide an equal amount of water – on average, a horse needs 20-30 litres of water a day, so that’s a lot of snow – not to mention the extra energy required to melt the snow that should be used for body warmth. If you are feeding your horse hay, access to water is vital in order to avoid impaction and the possible risk of colic. If your horse’s manure becomes firm and dry instead of soft and moist, the horse is not getting enough water. If your horse looks gaunt and his flanks and abdomen are tucked up, chances are he is dehydrated. The easiest way to make water accessible to your horse and ensure he gets enough water is by installing a de-icer in his water trough. There are several kinds on

the market, both floating and drain-plug de-icers as well as those that sink to the bottom of the tank. It’s also a good idea to insulate the stock tanks and put a lid on top with a hole big enough for the horse to stick his head through. This is also a great way to reduce your power bill. If you use an automatic waterer, check it daily to make sure it is working properly. If you don’t have a power source nearby, consider purchasing a solar waterer. If you water your horse by carrying pails of water out to him, do so at least twice a day. Horses drink most of their daily water within three hours after being fed, and they tend to drink more during the warmer daylight hours. If your horse’s water source is a stream or pond, check the water at least twice daily and break the ice if necessary. Some horses may be hesitant to step on the ice to reach the water hole you have chopped, so consider spreading sand on the ice to give them safer footing. If your horse is kept outside year-round, it is a good idea to have his shoes pulled and his feet trimmed by a professional farrier before there is snow on the ground and snow balls up under your horse’s feet. Horses need to remain on a consistent farrier schedule throughout the winter to ensure healthy feet. It’s also a good idea to get your horse’s teeth checked, and if needed floated, at the beginning of winter so he is able to properly chew his hay and grain and get the most out of his feed. This is particularly important in older horses and those that have difficulty maintaining their weight. Horses should be dewormed at least twice a year, preferably more often. If you only deworm twice a year, it is a good idea to wait until the ground freezes. Check with your veterinarian for the appropriate type of dewormer. It’s a good habit to give your horse a thorough check-over every time you feed him, or at least once a day, to evaluate his body condition and alert you to any illness and injury. Caring for your horse over the cold, dark winter months can be a challenging task. However, the better your horse is cared for during the winter, the better condition he will be in when spring arrives and you’re ready to hit the trails again. Providing appropriate feed, water, shelter and health care for your horse is critical. Stutz is a Chris Irwin Gold Certified trainer and coach and operates Falling Star Ranch in Dunster, B.C.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel/the ﬁtzhugh 15

National Safe Driving Week: Drugged driving has deadly outcomes Messages reminding Canadians to drive sober are a familiar and necessary feature of the holiday season. Impairment behind the wheel is most often associated with alcohol – the classic “Don’t drink and drive.” But impairment goes far beyond alcohol. Increasingly, motorists are gambling with their safety and the safety of others by knowingly driving under the influence of drugs. These drugs include illegal substances, prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. This National Safe Driving Week, the Canada Safety Council seeks to educate Canadians that driving while under the influence of drugs is dangerous, irresponsible and becoming increasingly prevalent. It is posing a significant public safety risk that needs to be curbed through preventative measures, awareness and enforcement of appropriate penalties.

Recommendations Much like curbing drunk driving, proactive steps can and must be taken to stop drugged driving before it happens. • Be responsible. Never drive when impaired. • Do not combine drugs and alcohol. • Do not use illegal drugs. • Do not use drugs of any variety to get high. • Know the side effects of your medications. Read the inserts that come with your medications and speak with your pharmacist about the drugs’ possible impacts on your driving abilities. • Be aware that drugs interact with each other. Review

• • •

your list of medications with your pharmacist. As a host, monitor your guests’ behaviour. If you suspect someone is impaired, speak up and make alternate, safe arrangements for transportation. Do not be a passenger in a vehicle where the driver is impaired. Make every safe effort to stop an impaired person from operating a vehicle. Report impaired driving to the police.

Whether by drugs, alcohol, fatigue or some other contributing factor, there is no excuse for impaired driving. Be responsible and be safe this holiday season. Canada Safety Council canadasafetycouncil.org

 Storefront Christmas

Contest



Sobering statistics and measures Serious injury, driver or passenger death, hurting bystanders, destroying property, lost productivity, more strain on the health-care system – these are just some of the unfortunate, painful and yet totally preventable consequences of driving while impaired by drugs. The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse reports that in 2008, 36.7 per cent of fatally injured drivers in Canada tested positive for impairing drugs. That’s more than one in three fatalities where drugs played a role. This compares with 40.8 per cent of driver fatalities where alcohol was the source of impairment. Among drivers killed who were tested for both drugs and alcohol, 15.1 per cent were found to be positive for both. The most common drugs found in fatalities are central nervous system depressants, cannabis, stimulants and narcotics. Female drivers are almost equally likely as males to test positive for drugs. Among fatally injured drivers 55

and older, drug use is more prevalent than alcohol. “Unfortunately, people are more afraid of being caught than being killed,” said Jack Smith, President of the Canada Safety Council. “They don’t think it’s going to happen to them until it happens.” Aware of licensing restrictions and initiatives that catch and punish drunk drivers, some people are turning from alcohol to substances such as drugs to achieve a high. But as the statistics indicate, the outcomes are even more – not less – dangerous and deadly. There is now a growing body of 491 drug recognition experts (DRE) in Canada, who exclusively work to enforce penalties for driving under the influence of drugs. In cases where impairment by drugs is suspected, sobriety tests are being used to check for the source of impairment. A DRE can be called in to access the condition of a suspected impaired driver and may collect a swab, urine or blood sample. If the results come back positive for the suspected drug or drugs, charges can be laid under the Criminal Code of Canada. The message: drivers operating under the influence of drugs stand a good chance of being caught, or worse – being involved in a deadly collision. It’s not worth the risk.

The Fitzhugh is excited to announce their first annual Christmas Storefront Contest.

Retailers are invited to decorate their storefront, window or doorway with any seasonal Holiday theme. Judging will take place over the weekend of Dec. 15 and 16. Winners and honourable mentions will be featured in the Tuesday, Dec. 24 issue. Contact Mishelle for more information 780-852-4888, 780-931-3489 (cell) or email advertising@fitzhugh.ca.

Possibility of an indoor market in Valemount Amber Stayer of Valemount is wondering if Valemount would be interested in a once a month indoor market and if there are vendors interested. You can private message her on Facebook with your vendor details if you are interested. She would like to see all sorts, from homebased businesses to home crafts. Community garden survey results The results of the Valemount Community Garden survey do not indicate signiﬁcant interest in a community garden. Eleven participants were logged, but one was a repeat, and did not complete the survey twice. Therefore, 10 individuals completed the survey. Given these results, Dan Kenkel of the Valemount Secondary School has revised his request for the release of land for a community garden for use as a school garden. He said there is considerable inﬂuence on schools to develop both sustainable practices and education. Dunster Community Christmas Concert Continuing the tradition that is almost 100 years old, the Dunster Fine Arts School will be presenting their Community Christmas Concert again this year on Dec. 19 at the school. There will be two presentations of the concert, one in the morning at 11 a.m. for the seniors of the Robson Valley, followed by lunch, and a second presentation in the evening at 7 p.m. for the general public.

The Geminid Meteor Shower This is probably the best meteor shower of the year with high rates of slow bright meteors, the peak is very broad with rates of up to 100-plus multicoloured meteors per hour. The best time to look out for Geminids is on the evenings of Dec. 12 to 14, but they can be seen much earlier or later than the peak. Look for it in the constellation Gemini. This year the new moon will provide a dark backdrop for an out-of-this-world show. Best viewing is usually to the east after midnight from a dark location.

 

Jasper 9A Students addressing homelessness in Canada On Behalf of the 9A Jasper Junior/Senior High School class, Brandon Lawson shares their novel idea. After reading the novel, Shattered, by Eric Walters (about growing homelessness in Canadian cities), Lawson’s class started to focus on the issue, and how they could do their part to resolve it. Their teacher Mrs. Schmidt suggested they could collect donations through fundraisers, or dropoff boxes, for the Bissell Centre. They have chosen to fundraise, run a drop-off box, and ask local businesses to donate new hoodies and lightly used winter wear. They aim to have this program running from Nov. 26 to Dec. 17. The drop-off box will be located in the foyer of the Jasper Junior/Senior High School.

SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION & JASPER

the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • thursday, december 6, 2012

We are currently hiring for the position of: Cook ($10.00 - $13.00/hr) Prepare and cook complete meals or individual dishes and foods. Maintain inventory and records of food, supplies and equipment. May set up and oversee buffets, clean kitchen and work area, plan menus, determine size of food portions, estimate food requirements and costs, monitor and order supplies. Please send resume to: Athabasca Motor Hotel (1972) Ltd. 510 Patricia Street, Jasper Phone: 780-852-3386; Fax: 780-852-4955 Email: bob.graham@athabascahotel.com Attention: Bob Graham, Assistant General Manager

is now hiring a

Bookkeeper part-time position

To start in January. Must have experience with Quickbooks. Apply in person with resume.

612 patricia Street 780-852-5304

is currently seeking a

We are a growing company looking to expand our team.

We are currently hiring for the position of: Housekeeping Room Attendant ($12.00 - $14.00/hr) Make beds, sweep, mop, wash, wax and polish the floors and attend to guest requests. Must be fit to work in a physically demanding fast paced environment, work under pressure and a be a good team player. Please send resume to: Athabasca Motor Hotel (1972) Ltd. 510 Patricia Street, Jasper Phone: 780-852-3386; Fax: 780-852-4955 Email: bob.graham@athabascahotel.com Attention: Bob Graham, Assistant General Manager

Mountain Park Lodges Human Resources 96 Geikie St., Jasper AB We are currently hiring for the positions of: Phone: 780-852-2505 Fax: 780-852-5813 Email: hire@mpljasper.com Interested in a career? www.mpljasper.com

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

We are currently hiring for the position of:

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Apply to hire@mpljasper.com Mountain Park Lodges Box 1200 Jasper, Ab T0E 1E0 Fax: 780-852-5813

We are a growing company looking to expand our team.

Interested in a career? www.mpljasper.com

Human Resources 96 Geikie St., Jasper AB Phone: 780-852-2505 The Human Resources Department is an “open Fax: 780-852-5813 door” office in a multi-disciplinary environment Email: hire@mpljasper.com that is ever-changing and fast-paced. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic, friendly leader who Interested in a career? strives for the best employee experience. www.mpljasper.com The candidate will possess: • Post-secondary education in the Human Services field with a minimum of 4 years field experience and/or a related education and experience equivalent. • Capacity to manage multiple tasks effectively with creative thinking and strong problem solving skills. • Ability to demonstrate tact and diplomacy at all times and work in an environment of strict confidentiality. • An enthusiastic and positive attitude with proven abilities to resolve conflict and manage change. • Experience with leadership and management of people. • Hospitality industry experience an asset.

Ideal candidates for this role have experience working in catering or banquets and have managed a small- to medium-sized dining establishment. You enjoy working in a fast paced and ever-changing environment while providing exceptional customer service at all times. Experience in a hotel environment is a deﬁnite asset. If you are looking for an opportunity to take your career to the next level, visit our website for more details at www.mpljasper.com. Offering pension plan, medical beneﬁts, and bonus.

Mountain Park Lodges Human Resources 96 Geikie St., Jasper AB We are currently hiring for the positions of: Phone: 780-852-2505 Fax: 780-852-5813 •FOOD & Email: hire@mpljasper.com

We are a growing company looking to expand our team.

RESTAURANT MANAGER

CheCk out all our career ads at www.fitzhugh.Ca

Mountain Park Lodges Box 1200 Jasper, AB T0E 1E0 Phone: 780-852-2505 Fax: 780-852-5813

Call the sentinel at 250-566-4425 or the Fitzhugh 780-852-4888 to plaCe your ad

Mountain Park Lodges, Human Resources 96 Geikie St., Jasper AB, Phone: 780-852-2505 Fax: 780-852-5813, Email: hire@mpljasper.com

BEVERAGE SERVERS (Pyramid Lake Resort & Lobstick Lodge) We offer great beneﬁts, bonus, career growth and temporary subsidized housing.

Call 780-852-4888 to place your ad in the Fitzhugh

Online Special Event Planning Begin an exciting career in special event planning! CNC Continuing Education has partnered with the College of the Rockies (COTR) to offer their online Continuing Education Special Event Planning Program. Whether you are currently working in special events or are interested in entering the field, this program is a fantastic option for expanding your career possibilities. Become familiar with the theory behind the many aspects of event planning and find out how to apply the theory in a practical setting through event simulations! This program consists of 4 modules all of which are taken to complete the (nonaccredited) Special Event Planning Program. The full program is estimated to be approximately 96 hours (24 hours per module) and the online access is available almost 24 hours 7 days a week. The time commitment is approximately 8 hours per week of reading, assignments etc. and the instructor advises you of the timelines that assignments are due. All course work, assignments and testing are online you do not have to physically attend. Cost: $795 Dates: Jan 7 to Mar 31, 2013 Registration recommended by Dec 14, 2012 For detailed information on Special Event Planning Program visit our CNC Continuing Education website at www.cnc.bc.ca/ce To register contact CNC Admissions at 250.561.5801 or 1.800.3718111 ext 5801

www.fitzhugh.ca & www.thevalleysentinel.com

Serving the robSon valley region & Jasper

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel/the ﬁtzhugh 17

Hinton and District SPCA

Christmas Wish List Dear Santa, The cats, dogs and rabbits at the Hinton and District SPCA have been very good this year. We have eaten our kibble, enjoyed our walks and peed outside or used our litter boxes. For Christmas we would like the following: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Homes for all our friends! IGA Budget Savers Canadian Tire money Pedigree dog food, wet or dry Whiskas or Iams cat food, wet or dry Special kitty clumping cat litter Milkbones and other dog treats Dog and cat toys especially kongs Leashes Office supplies – photocopy paper, postage, letter size files Cleaning supplies – paper towel, Windex, bleach Dog walkers and cat cuddlers

We are currently hiring for the position of: Hotel Front Desk Agent ($12.00 - $13.50/hr) Register arriving guests and assign rooms, answer enquires regarding hotel services and registration by letter, telephone and emails. Provide information about the services available in the community and respond to guest queries.

We always appreciate donations. They may be dropped at the shelter between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., daily. If you want to volunteer for us you can come and walk me (or my other doggie friends), or you can play with my cat friends (there are 50 of them here). You can help clean my kennel with the dedicated staff of the SPCA. Santa, I hope by Christmas Eve I’ll be in my new home, but please stop by and drop off some goodies for my friends who are not so lucky! Love, Meg and the rest of the dogs, cats and rabbits at the Hinton and District SPCA

Please send resume to: Athabasca Motor Hotel (1972) Ltd. 510 Patricia Street, Jasper Phone: 780-852-3386; Fax: 780-852-4955 Email: bob.graham@athabascahotel.com Attention: Bob Graham, Assistant General Manager

Just a reminder Community Listings deadline is Fridays @ 5PM

DEADLINE FRIDAY AT 5:00 PM JASPER CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS

FOR RENT

RIVER STONE YOGA STUDIO Mention this ad at our studio and receive a one time discount of $3 off your yoga class until Dec 25th. Located at 606 Patricia Street (below the deli).

FULLY FURNISHED 2 BEDROOM suite. Maximum 2 people. Includes utilities, cable, W/D, D/W and wifi. N/S, N/P $1300/month. Available Dec 1st (780) 852-3765.

FOR RENT

CALL THE FITZHUGH 780-852-4888 TO PLACE YOUR AD

CAVELL APT SUITES for rent. Bachelor suites $680/ month, 1 bedroom apartments $795/month, 2 bedroom apartments $925/month. Available immediately. Call 780-852-4482.

ROBSON VALLEY CLASSIFIEDS AUTOMOBILES 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. $3,900 OBO. Contact Oli at 250-569-2583. GTS SEPT 5 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

AUTOMOTIVE Challenger canopy for Sonoma or similar long box pickup, needs new seal. $300. Marie 250566-0061. NOV 22

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

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

Lady has new clothes, books, toys etc. for sale. Also needs help with moving and needs to borrow small television, cot and bedding until spring, 250-921-4395. Dec 6

MISC. FOR SALE 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. DEC 13

RENTALS 2 Bedroom house on acreage for rent in Tete Jaune. $750 per month. Contact 250-566-9811 DEC 20 CN APARTMENTS - 1 & 2 BR $520 & $590 plus hydro. No pets. JUNIPER MANOR -Furnished Bachelor $450 plus hydro. 2 BR $550 plus hydro. Scott 250-566-1569 DEC 20

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

RENTALS

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 HOME FOR SALE

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 250566-1947 or call Francis at 250-566-4411. DEC 6

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.

#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

CALL THE VALLEY SENTINEL AT 250-566-4425 TO PLACE YOUR AD

SERVING THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION & JASPER

The Valley Sentinel, robson valley region • Thursday, deCeMber 6, 2012

SPECIAL EV ENTS Late Night ShoppiNg - VaLemouNt Friday, dec. 7 at participating valemount businesses. SeNiorS ChriStmaS potLuCk Supper saturday, dec. 15 at the golden years lodge at 6 p.m. admission is a potluck contribution. Turkey and potatoes supplied by club. Please bring a gift valued at $10 if you wish to participate in the gift exchange. Your online Library account @ the mcBride Library dec. 5 at 2 p.m. Tips and tricks for using your library account online.

Christmas Crafternoon @ the McBride Public library. december 8 at 2:30 p.m. help us decorate the library! Craft creations for all ages. Seasonal Songs and Stories @ the McBride Public library. december 15 at 2:30 p.m. Join doreen for carols on the harp and the telling of our favourite holiday tales.

thevaLLeySentineL.COM question of the week... What do you think is going to happen on Dec. 21? a) Christmas Party! Woop Woop! b) A significant spiritual awakening.

c) It will be cold, there might be snow, but that’s about it. d) Run for you lives!

Go to www.thevalleysentinel.com to cast your vote. Results will be published in next week’s Valley Sentinel. Last week’s results: What is the most common winter hazard on Rocky Mountain highways? 43% (3) Other vehicles travelling too fast for road conditions 43% (3) Ice and snow 14% (1) Distracted or inattentive drivers the road 0% (0) Wildlife crossing

Scrabble’s On @ the McBride Public Library. december 8 at 2:30 p.m. Come on by for a game or two.

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

Pot Luck Christmas Lunch saturday, dec. 15th at 12 noon at the dunster Community hall . oN exhiBit: rememBraNCe - LeSt we Forget 2 Come and view the archives and artifacts from World Wars i & ii and other related information at the Mcbride Museum & library building at 241 dominion street.

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.

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 4, april 4, July 4, and october 3. Mcbride village Council Chambers 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.

ADVENTURE HIKING SKIING TOURS

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS!

LISTINGS

CHURCH

3010 Selwyn Road Telephone: 1-250-566-4401

PO Box 190, Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 Fax Number: 1-250-566-4333

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

www.robsonhelimagic.com 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

250-566-4700 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 6, 2012 • ROBSON VALLEY REGION,

The Valley Sentinel

Valemount Council Meeting, Nov. 27 By DONALDA BEESON Contributor

The regularly scheduled council meeting for The Village of Valemount was held on Tuesday, Nov. 27. Mayor Andru McCracken, Coun. Christine Latimer, Coun. Sandy Salt, Coun. Hollie Blanchette, Coun. Dallas Bullock, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Anne Yanciw, and Deputy Corporate Officer Braden Hutchins were all in attendance. Correspondence for Action: VACS Re: Community Hall Rental Bullock made a motion to waive the regular rental fees associated with use of the Community Hall for VACS to feed over 50 people associated with the BC Boys Choir, Nov. 30. Salt seconded this motion. Local Government Leadership Academy 2013 Re: Elected officials seminar Feb 20-22, 2012 Salt made a motion to receive for information only an invite to the Local Government Leadership Academy 2013 Re: Elected officials seminar Feb. 20-22, 2013. Bullock seconded this motion.

Administrative Reports: CAO Re: Re-Appointments Blanchette made a motion to approve the appointment of McCracken to the Columbia River Treaty Local Government Committee for the remainder of the current municipal electoral term, with Latimer appointed as the alternate. Also, a motion to approve the appointment of McCracken as the Municipal Director to the Regional District of Fraser–Fort George for a twoyear term, with Bullock as the alternate. Salt seconded this motion. Economic Development Ofﬁcer Report: EDO Re: Request for comments on Valemount Glacier Destination Resort Formal Proposal Latimer made a motion to resolve that council has no speciﬁc concerns, comments, or objections with respect to the issuance of an Interim Agreement and associated Licence of Occupation for the purpose of preparing a Resort Master Plan and the Master Plan Review Process. Bullock seconded this motion. Financial Report: DOF Re: Canada Day Salt made a motion to approve the grant application to the Department of Canadian

Heritage in relation to the “Celebrate Canada” Program for organizing activities to celebrate Canada Day. Blanchette seconded this motion. Bylaws and Policies Village of Valemount Cemetery Bylaw 685, 2012 fourth reading Salt made a motion to approve the fourth and final reading of Valemount Cemetery Bylaw No. 685, 2012. Bullock seconded this motion. Village of Valemount Water Rate Bylaw 687, 2012 first and second readings Blanchette made a motion to approve a first and second reading of the Water Rate Bylaw No. 687, 2012. Bullock seconded this motion. Village of Valemount Garbage Rate Amendment Bylaw 688, 2012 first and second readings Blanchette made a motion to approve the first and second reading of the Garbage Rate Bylaw No. 688, 2012. Bullock seconded this motion. Travel Allowance Policy #38 Latimer made a motion to approve the revised Policy 38, 2012 Travel Allowance

Policy, effective immediately. Blanchette seconded this motion. Public Comment Owen Torgersen wished to remind council of their mission statement in regards to not brushing aside funding opportunities. He reminds council that grant money is taxpayer’s money. He also asks them to be careful with the Columbia River Treaty, as it is important and delicate. He suggests trying not to break up the teamwork that is already in place with BC Hydro. For more information To clear up anything mentioned in these notes, please contact Donalda Beeson at The Valley Sentinel, at donalda@thevalleysentinel.com. For more information, concerning anything mentioned at the council meetings please contact the Village Ofﬁce and note that, as always, the public is more than welcome to attend these meetings, as well as make a delegation or public comment, on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at 7 p.m. sharp in the Village of Valemount Council Chambers.

Village of McBride Council Briefs Nov. 27 By ALLAN FREDERICK Reporter

The regularly scheduled council meeting for the Village of McBride was held on Nov. 27, with Mayor Mike Frazier, Coun. Irene Rejman, Coun. Rick Thompson, Coun. Raj Basran, Chief Administrative Ofﬁcer Eliana Clements, Treasurer Danielle Smith and Economic Development Ofﬁcer (EDO) Margaret Graine in attendance. Coun. Lori Kimpton was absent. There were three members of the general public present. Agenda with additions received: A motion was made by Coun. Rejman and seconded by Coun. Basran to receive the agenda and additions. Motion was carried. Minutes approved: A motion was made by Coun. Thompson and seconded by Coun. Rejman to accept the minutes of the regular council meeting of Nov. 13. Motion was carried. Reports: With the mayor and councillors present,

administration and EDO provided verbal reports on their activities since the last council meeting. A report to council was provided with recommendations for their review on the process being considered for the Tourism Plan Revisit based on information provided to date. The recommendation suggested that locally the group meet for a half-day workshop to look over the 2007 Tourism Plan. This would be followed by a workshop meeting with Valemount and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG) to best co-ordinate the efforts of the communities and regional branding. The report suggested that the Tourism Advisory Committee and local ministry representative Elaine Gillette, Marc von der Gonna of MCFC and Area H Director Ken Starchuck be included. By Laws / Permits / Policies: Administration provided council, as requested, a revised draft report for the Zoning Amendment Bylaw on setback clariﬁcations for their review. Administration is to have the revision presented to council at the next meeting on Dec. 11.

Council gave ﬁrst, second and third readings, after reviewing the report from administration, regarding Garbage, Water and Sewer Rates for 2013. Bylaw #727 – motion made by Mayor Frazier and seconded by Coun. Rejman was carried and will see garbage collection rates increase in 2013 by two per cent or $2.33 annually per household. Bylaw #728 – motion made by Mayor Frazier and seconded by Coun. Rejman was carried and will see sewer rates increase in 2013 by three per cent or $3.68 annually per household. Bylaw #729 – motion made by Coun. Thompson and seconded by Coun. Basran was carried and will see water fees increase by two per cent or $4.23 annually per household. It is noted that these increases result in a total increase to a household of $10.24 for the 2013 calendar year. That is an or average of $0.85 monthly.

Accounts Payable: A report on the October 2012 Accounts Payable was received with a motion by Coun. Rejman, and seconded by Coun. Thompson. Motion was carried. New Business: With the recent signing of an agreement for the operation of the Visitor Information Centre with the McBride and District Chamber of Commerce, a motion was made by Coun. Rejman and seconded by Coun. Basran that the Community Development Project Committee be discontinued as of Dec. 31; as the new agreement will take effect Jan. 1, 2013. The Community Visitor Information Service Centre is to provide their ﬁnal reporting and ﬁnancials up to Dec. 31, 2012 to complete the prior commitment to the Village. Motion was carried. A motion was made by Coun. Thompson and seconded by Mayor Frazier with a friendly amendment to have the regularly scheduled council meetings for Dec. 25, 2012 and also Dec. 24, 2013 cancelled. Motion was carried.

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the ﬁtzhugh/The Valley Sentinel • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

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SERVING JASPER & THE ROBSON VALLEY REGION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2012

• The Valley Sentinel/the ﬁtzhugh 21

Business Watch: Yellowhead Security By DANIEL BETTS Editor

VALEMOUNT – Business and property owners can’t always watch their investment, but coming in the New Year the opportunity for peace of mind will be available in the Robson Valley Region. On Jan. 1, 2013 Yellowhead Traffic Control and Security will be able to offer the “security” component of their business to new and existing clients. Local business owner and entrepreneur Richard Korejwo, who also owns and operates Valemount Taxi, is very pleased to be offering this new service, which he believes is sorely needed in the valley. Services offered by Yellowhead Security will include 24 hours a day, mobile service or the occasional visit. “Each client will design their own program for their situation,” explained Korejwo. The service is open to commercial, industrial and residential customers and includes things like house checks while owners are on vacation.

Yellowhead Security is starting with two personnel to begin with but will expand as needed. All their security officers will have basic security training (a week long course in a class setting), RCMP fingerprinting and background checks. Their personnel will also be publically visible and identified as security with uniforms, jackets and caps with company logos. Korejwo envisions many scenarios where security in the valley is required, such as 24-hour site security during fire investigations, warehouses, hotel patrols or truck transports with special cargo. Korejwo is optimistic he will soon be looking for personnel as his business grows. Potentially with enough interest, a teacher could be brought into the valley to conduct a group course for potential employees. As an added incentive, Yellowhead Security will be offering a wage that is much higher than what is offered to security personnel in larger centres. “We want to create viable and liveable wages [in the valley],” said Korejwo. Besides offering peace of mind, Korejwo notes that many insurance companies often lower their rates when security services are deployed to a business.

For more information on Yellowhead Security contact Janet Gehrmann at 250-566-9066 or email janet@yellowheadtcs. com. You can also visit their website at www.yellowheadtcs. com

ALLAN FREDERICK PHOTOS

McBride was buzzing on Sunday, Dec. 2 when local remote control enthusiasts had a public open house at the McBride Community Hall. Displays of model planes, helicopters, cars and trucks were on hand. According to organizers, approximately 25 people came through to see the displays and some took the opportunity to try the flight simulators available for practice. While there is no formal club or group as of yet, the organizers felt that this would be a great opportunity to have interested people show and try their hand at the flight simulator and just view some of the models available and meet with other enthusiasts of the remote control world of models. McBride can look forward to another display and opportunity to fly remote controlled vehicles in the coming months.

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the fitzhugh/The Valley Sentinel â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, december 6, 2012

McBride and Jasper in finals

sarah maKOWsKy PhOTOs

Bantam Bearcats

The Jasper bearcats hosted a bantam hockey tournament dec. 1 and 2 and won all three of their games, including the final against the mcbride Grizzlies. The Grizzlies pulled their goalie late in the third period, but an empty net goal clinched a 5-2 victory for the bearcats.

submitted by Tamar cOuTure and Karen huculaK

JASPER - It was a busy weekend down at the arena. The Bantam Bearcats had invited five other teams from Alberta and British Columbia to their annual tournament. Games on Saturday started at 8 a.m. and continued non-stop until 9 p.m. Jasper began the tournament facing off against the Sherwood Park Rampage; the play was fast and shots were hard but the Bearcats came out on top 5-3. The next few games saw the Rimbey Renegades take on the Whitemud Predators, Sherwood Park hit the ice again against the Pembina Pirates before the McBride Grizzlies from the Robson Valley, met the Rimbey Renegades. Jasper hit the ice again for the marque game at 5 p.m. against the Pembina Pirates. The game started out with both teams playing strong, hard-hitting hockey, but the score slowly crept up and in the end Jasper was on the winning end 11-4. With this win, the team was going to the A Final on Sunday, however it took until the end of the final game between the Whitemud Predators and the McBride Grizzlies to figure out who Jasper was going to play. The points were that close. The finals on Sunday were all great hockey games with each of the teams quite evenly matched. The C final saw Sherwood Park play Whitemud. Both teams skated it out until the final period before the Sherwood Park team pulled ahead for the 6-2 win. The B final was Rimbey versus Pembina and it looked like it might go into overtime before Rimbey scored two quick goals in the final four minutes to defeat Pembina 5-3.

submITTed PhOTO

The Jasper bearcats, bantam a Team pose with their coaches following their tournament win last weekend.

This brings us to the A Final: Jasper versus McBride. These two small-town teams with small benches faced off at 12:30 p.m. These evenly matched teams fought it out for three periods, the score going back and forth until the third period when Jasper was finally able to pull ahead by two goals. In a final attempt to even things up, McBride pulled

their goalie for an extra man out. With an open net yawning at the other end, the puck was passed up, and given a little extra help to slide into the empty net. Jasper 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; McBride 2. At the end of the day, it was great hockey from all six teams. Thanks for the entertainment.

Serving Jasper & the robSon valley region

Thursday, dECEMBEr 6, 2012 • roBson vallEy rEgion,

The Valley Sentinel

Mini-clinics well attended By BirgiT sTuTZ Contributor

DUNSTER - Despite the icy road conditions, the mini-clinics offered by the Robson Valley Chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of BC were well attended, with 25 horse people from Valemount to McBride. The free workshop was held on Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Dunster Community Hall and was open to nonmembers as well. Local saddlemaker Reg Marek, who owns Kicking Horse Saddlery, started the afternoon with his talk about proper leather care, as well as the importance of rigging placement and types on Western saddles. Dunster resident Mac Cochrane, who has been looking after horses’ teeth for about 30 years and has worked with various veterinarians at different times, explained what’s important regarding equine teeth care and how to age a horse based on its teeth. Local horse trainer and coach Birgit Stutz, who owns Falling Star Ranch, ended the workshop with her presentation on different types of bits and bitless bridles, how they work, as well as their proper use. The presentations were well received and the Robson Valley Chapter is looking forward to hosting more educational workshops in the future. The Robson Valley chapter is open to new members, with or without horses. The membership fee is $35 per year, and active members need to have a current Horse

Council BC membership. For more information on the club, contact Chair Brian Wallace at 250-569-2324, Cochrane (vice-chair) at 250968-4498, Marek (treasurer) at 250-968-4346, or Stutz (public relations/membership) at 250-968-6801.

BirgiT sTuTZ PhoTos

left: local saddlemaker reg Marek, right, talks about the importance of rigging placement and types with Mac Cochrane’s assistance. above: Mac Cochrane explains to an attentive audience how to age a horse based on its teeth.

McBride Farmers Institute dinner & special guest By allan FrEdEriCk Reporter

MCBRIDE – On Saturday evening Dec. 1, the McBride Farmers Institute held their annual banquet attracting approximately 100 people to the Elks Hall. Special guest, the Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, was also in attendance. Guichon spoke for ten minutes prior to the dinner and talked about the organization dating back to its inception in 1915. Although there have been some bylaws of the Act amended in 1983, she said, “the objects of the institute” are still valid today. Guichon mentioned each of the objectives of the Institute as follows: First, to improve conditions of rural life so that settlement may be permanent and prosperous. Second, to promote the theory and practice of agriculture. Third, to arrange, on behalf of its members, the purchase, distribution or sale of commodities, supplies or products. Fourth, to act generally on behalf of its members in all matters incidental to agricultural pursuits and rural development. Lastly, to promote home economics, public health, child welfare, education and better schools. Guichon expressed, “the need to continue to educate the urban population about the importance and complexity of our industry.” Guichon also spoke about her duties and constitutional obligations. She said during her term she wanted to be sure to “celebrate, inspire and connect with British Columbians.” It was noted during the event that the Robson Valley today produces a wide range of agricultural commodities. Livestock are produced for sale, including, milk, beef, lamb, bison, yak, horses, chickens and eggs. Vegetables, raspberries, wool, alpaca fibre, oats, wheat, and barley are also produced in the Robson Valley. Guichon noted that there are many rules now in place that govern “who to and what you can sell” that did not exist in 1915. One of the most obvious changes is the restriction of the sale of milk, as can only be done through the related Commodity Board. Following the dinner other guests, including, associate professor Scott Green and masters student Serena Black of the University of Northern British Columbia, made a brief presentation on their research into northern agriculture and specifically barley cultivar trials using

varying water stress. A workshop is to be held with the participation of local producers in early 2013. Green mentioned that the co-operation and valuable experience of local producers was amazing and of course most helpful with their research. In addition, Jillian Merrick, project co-ordinator from Community Futures Fraser Fort-George, spoke to the guests about the New Farm Development Initiative available to both new and experienced farmers, as well as the “Beyond the Market” program for the area. Guichon, with introductions from Institute President Froese, visited with the local guests and engaged in conversations concerning the Robson Valley and agriculture both in general and specific to the individual. She spent over an hour visiting and chatting with locals. On behalf of the Institute President, Mark Froese presented Guichon with an autographed copy of local writer Marilyn Wheeler’s book on the history of the Robson Valley. Once the formal part of the evening was complete, Guichon and escorts, Major Rick M. Lewis and RCMP Supt. Eric Stubbs of the Prince George Detachment officially left the building.

allan FrEdEriCk PhoTos

above: The honourable Judith guichon, lieutenant governor of British Columbia, addresses the Farmers institute during their annual dinner at the Elks hall on dec. 1. Below: some of the locals attending the Farmers institute annual dinner pose with the guest of honour.

24 The Valley Sentinel, robson valley region • Thursday, deCeMber 6, 2012

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Over 4 acres - Approx 800 sq ft incl. loft you finish & save money - great retreat! $175,000 Tammy Van de Nobelen Owner & Sales Associate

Serviced TOwn LOTS $37,900 AcreAgeS 1 Acre - 5 AcreS $69,000 - $149,000 check OuT webSiTe fOr deTAiLS

Call Tammy TODAY for more information on these properties and more.

Visit www.valemountlistings.com

Cell: 250.566.1025 • Office: 250.566.0021 - 1418 Bruce Place, Valemount, BC

LOT And ShOP

Almost half acre - commercial area huge shop - excellent exposure - Low price $99,000 plus hST Jeannette Townsend Managing Broker