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The Rocky Mountain Goat News PM42164515

Thursday, December 15th, 2016

Serving Valemount, McBride & the Robson Valley since 2010. Locally owned & operated.

Volume 7, Issue 50

Donations pour in for Meek-Olson family by EVAN MATTHEWS

Updates on fatal fire

A02

After a tragic fire has claimed the life of a child in Valemount, the community has rallied together to support the family. Fire crews responded to a blaze at the Meek-Olson household just after 10 p.m. Dec. 6th in Hartman Trailer Park, North District RCMP Corporal Madonna Saunderson says. The blaze “fully engulfed the home,” she

said. There were three people inside, according to RCMP, including father Clint Meek, and his two sons Landon and Dominic. One child, identified by RCMP as 16-month-old, Dominic Meek, did not survive. Clint and Landon suffered second-degree burns and were sent to the burn unit in Vancouver by helicopter for treatment. “It’s going to be a very long road for Clint,

and it breaks my heart every time I think about it… He was burnt pretty badly,” says Olson. “I don’t want to give out false facts, but he will need Skin Grafts… Landon is doing okay. He has ups and downs, but they’re taking really good care of him,” she says. The mother, Allison Olson and daughter, Samara, also lived in the home, but were not inside at the time of the fire. Allison has been

Cont’d on A02

Local mill expands on Community Forest land

Paramedicine in the Valley A03

Slash and burn A07

RCMP report

A09

by EVAN MATTHEWS

Listings on A23! P15!

Prince George

The girls are champs

Photo: Evan Matthews Jason Alexander and Brianne Mcneill own Cedar Valley Holdings Ltd., a company specializing in making shingles and producing cedar products. The couple’s business is the first to re-locate to the VCF Cedarside Industrial Park, as they expect their business to double in size in coming months.

A14

The Valemount Community Forest’s (VCF) Cedarside industrial park will soon see its first tenants, as Cedar Valley Holdings Ltd. — a company that manufactures cedar products, specifically posts, rails and cedar shingles — will be moving in shortly. Brianne Mcneill and Jason Alexander have owned and operated Cedar Valley Holdings Ltd., originally a Shingle and Shake manufacturing operation since 2000. The couple has been planning an expansion for some time now, they say, as their company is expanding its operation — adding a post and rail manufacturing line from machinery rendered obsolete from previous operations around the Valley, but a newly constructed building — and the pair says they will now own the biggest cedar-manufacturing producer in the region.

Originally the hope was to have the new post and rail line operational around Christmas, according to Alexander, but the bout of cold weather has delayed the construction, while he says he’s anticipating more delays. “The old mill is still manufacturing (shingles), and we’re piling up post and rail logs for when the line is ready to go,” says Alexander. “There is no sense in getting jumpy,” he says, while not confirming any official timeline for a move in. The old mill, which is just a short drive away from the new site, was pieced together as the business could afford to do so, and out of necessity, Alexander says. Now the operation in its entirety will be producing shingles, shake, posts and rails, with almost unlimited potential, according to Mcneill. “The products we’re making compliment each other,” she says. “We also have the ability to take on more wood

than we did previously.” Cedar Valley Holdings saved a lot of money by setting up a long-term lease on VCF land — land with an existing concrete pad to construct a new mill on — with Alexander adding VCF has been an absolute pleasure to work with. However, it’s access to fiber — lumber — that is the biggest motivating factor for his company’s move to the industrial park, Alexander says, as cedar down the West Canoe area is available to his company with the Carrier License now in the hands of VCF. The last time cedar in the area was available, Alexander guessed to be about 15 years ago. Alexander says his own company has been trying to obtain the necessary licenses and permits for about five years. “There hasn’t been any activity down there,” says Alexander. “There are tons of decadent trees that suit our needs.”

Cont’d on A02

A02 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

Passport photos And More!

*new address 1330 8th Ave* * Passports (incl. babies!) * Firearms * Visas * Citizenship * Family * Weddings Call Andru McCracken 250-566-3050 or Laura Keil 250-566-5135

THE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM OF BC Certifications & Skills Development Self Employment • Looking for a job Eligibility Assessment for Funding Apprenticeship & Training

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Up to date Job Board Copies & Fax • Interview Skills • Computer Lab Career Planning • Resume & Cover Letter Assistance

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

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1201 - 5th Ave., Box 789, Valemount, BC, V0E 2Z0 Monday to Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

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Fatal Fire

Cont’d from A01

in Vancouver with Clint and Landon for duration of their stay in hospital. RCMP has ruled out foul play and has passed off to the case to the B.C. Fire Commission. The Office of the fire Commissioner has identified the area of fire origin being near a wood-burning appliance — a wood stove — noting a possible cause may have been storage of combustible materials near the wood burning stove. Neighbours described the incident as being surprisingly quiet, given the tragic consequences to follow. Some witnesses claimed to hear sirens, however, the sound was quickly silenced. One neighbour said she didn’t hear anything at all until the following morning, saying, “I don’t even know how it’s possible”. Other neighbours said they looked out their window shortly after 10 PM, and emergency crews were already on scene, as the flames licked the trees and hydro wires above. Donations are being made to the family during what can only be described as a tragic time, as Alicia Olson is helping to coordinate many of the efforts. “I don’t even know what the family needs right now,” says Olson, who says the family has been so overwhelmed that they haven’t even had time to go through a lot of the donations. “Mainly right now is getting enough money to cover medical bills… I’m sure there’s going to be quite a bit of those,” she says. Though the family isn’t sure of what medical bills they’ll be financially liable for, Olson says travel costs - among

Photo: Evan Matthews The former home of the Meek-Olson family, the day after the blaze occured in Hartman Trailer Park.

others - have been expensive. A bank account has been set up through CIBC, according to Olson, and money transfers can be done from any CIBC location. As an alternative to the CIBC account, two GoFundMe accounts have been set up in the family’s name, one by a family member, which has raised $600 to date, and another by a family friend, which has raised over $10,000 so far. “The support has been mind-blowing,” says Olson. “People just come together and take action so quickly… I honestly don’t even know what to think or say. “We’re so grateful,” she says. Clothes are also being accepted, too, as the family is in need of a girl’s size seven and a boy’s size two or three. For those looking for more specific instructions to donate, email olson.92@hotmail.com. While no definitive plan is in place to house the family, Olson says they haven’t gotten that far in planning, as the family is focusing on things hour by hour. “We’ll support them however we can.”

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1. Have a professional install your woodburning appliance, particularly for the purpose of being sure the clearance between the stove and combustibles is adequate. Wood stoves should be safety tested and bear a label from a recognized authority such as a testing lab

Mill

(ULC, CSA). Non tested stoves require a minimum clearance to combustibles of 91.5cm or 36”. (Includes things like drapes, combustible walls, carpets, stored firewood and papers) 2. Wood stoves should always be placed on a fire-resistant, noncombustible base. 3. Have a professional inspect your chimney at least annually.

4. Burn only wood that has been properly dried or seasoned. 5. Safely dispose of ashes. A metal container with a lid should be used, and it should not be placed on a combustible surface or, for instance, on the back porch. Place the ashes away from the home, to give them adequate time to completely cool. 6. Keep a fire

extinguisher in a central location known to all household members. Be certain that it is in good working order and that everyone knows how to operate it. 7. Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in the proper locations in your home, and test them regularly.

Alexander. “It means we can keep people in the Valley.” And there will be more jobs coming, Alexander says. At its peak, Alexander says the old operation employed five or six people, while eventually dwindling to as low as two, as they tried to

“scratch things back together”. Part of this expansion, according to the couple, is to have upwards of 15 employees working at the new site. “If you know you have access to the wood source, you can plan your future,” says Mcneill. “You know there

will be jobs.” Though the industry isn’t exactly attracting a lot of youth, Alexander says long-term access to the lumber is huge for jobs in the Valley. “People shouldn’t have to leave their families to go to Alberta for work,” he says.

cont. from A01

The big difference to his company’s success and expansion, Alexander says, is having longterm and stable access to the cedar wood in the area. “We were trucking in blocks from Terrace or the Queen Charlottes, Revelstoke, just to keep running,” says

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Community Paramedicine by EVAN MATTHEWS The Province’s Community Paramedicine Initiative, which started back in April, is reporting the program is doing well and meeting the needs of the community. Jasmin Gasser is the paramedic hired to fill the new Community Paramedicine position here in Valemount, and gave a presentation at the Nov. 22 council meeting. “This is a communitybased model,” says Gasser. “Community paramedics provide primary care services within their scope of practice to increase access to basic health care services in non-urgent settings,” she says. Primary care is dayto-day healthcare given by providers such as physicians, nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners or a physician assistant. The new initiative sees some of these jobs delegated to a community paramedic. The services provided may include checking blood pressure, assisting with diabetic care, helping to identify fall hazards, medication assessment, post-injury or illness evaluation, and assisting with respiratory conditions. The paramedics will perform assessments requested by the referring healthcare professional, and record their findings for the patient’s file. The enhanced role will not replace care provided by health professionals

such as nurses, but will complement and support their work. Valemount and McBride are two of the 73 rural and remote B.C. communities — all smaller communities, or what Gasser calls “casual stations” — welcoming the Community Paramedicine Initiative, while the program offers residents enhanced health services from paramedics. Valemount and McBride both have a halftime equivalent under the new initiative. Criteria for the communities to participate in the program included defining the respective communities as rural, small rural and remote, the communities must be served by an existing ambulance station, and of course, the stations must be “casual” stations. One of the goals set out by the Province is to stabilize the staffing of paramedics in rural and remote communities. Earlier this year, Northern Health told the Goat recruiting paramedics to the Valley and keeping them had been a difficult task. The new program is part of the B.C. government’s plan to enhance primary care service delivery to British Columbians. “This program creates better access and fewer gaps in healthcare services for rural and remote communities,” says Gasser. “There are fewer unnecessary calls to 9-1-1

calls and trips to the Emergency Room… and improved recruitment and retention of paramedics in these communities,” she says. Under this program, the Province says paramedics will provide services in partnership with local health-care providers, delivered in non-urgent settings, which essentially means in patients’ homes or in the community. “Ensuring rural communities have access to health-care services is critical. We rely on our paramedics and this new program will enhance the work they already do,” said Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. “Both McBride and Valemount will benefit from the expansion of the paramedicine program,” she said. BC Emergency Health Services has been coordinating the implementation of community paramedicine with the Ministry of Health, regional health authorities, the Ambulance Paramedics of BC (CUPE 873), the First Nations Health Authority and others. The program will be evaluated over the multi-year project cycle, according to the Province, as the B.C. Government will analyze impacts or changes with sufficient evidence to support policy and practice, as well as identifying important lessons learned throughout the pilot project.

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A03

What do you love about McBride?

• Caring community? • Fantastic access to nature? • Unique local businesses?

Tell us in 40 words or less! We will publish all the submissions in our January 12th edition. It’s free for individuals and $25 for businesses (includes your logo). We will also make a draw for $200 of advertising credit at the Goat to use or give away to a local business or non-profit! (can’t be used on existing advertising contracts) Send submissions to: goatnewspaper@gmail. com with “Love McBride” in the subject line

McBride Employment Services

Upcoming workshops: Dec 8 WorkBC Programs & Benefits How they can help you find work Dec 15 Resolutions Building a strategic plan for employment Workshops run 10 am to 12 noon Robson Valley Support Society is a non-profit charity that has served the employment related needs of McBride for over a decade. Bob Thompson, Employment Services Coordinator

Photo courtesy of VCTV Jasmin Gasser gives a presentation to Valemount Village Council on Nov. 22, essentially explaining what the Community Paramedicine program is intended to do, and how it helps B.C. residents.

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

Bob Thompson, 942 Third Ave McBride, BC, V0J 2E0 Employment Services Coordinator 250-569-2266 Robson Valley Support Society mcbrideemployment@gmail.com

A04 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

Letters/Op-Ed Editorial

warm. And then I arrived. Lets be real, The Gathering Tree more than provides my coffee and WiFi fix, and I don’t exactly need public transportation to get around the Village, however shopping and visiting with the many people close to me, these are difficult tasks in a small town, no? Well, no, and this was just brought to my attention in the most direct way. A friend of mine works in the logging industry, and for whatever reason, he needed to buy a laser pointer last week. Where do you

Evan Matthews Editor Before I came to the Valley, I wondered how I’d survive without all the amenities I had in the city. Maybe I even started to take some of it for granted. Coffee shops and Wi-Fi on every corner, public transportation on the days you don’t feel like driving, shopping at your finger tips, and visiting with all the people who make my life feel so full and

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Small town living just isn’t what it used to be

buy a laser pointer in the Robson Valley? I would guess Home Hardware, but if not, you’re out of luck. But this friend of mine didn’t give up, as he really, really wanted this laser pointer. In all of this, I didn’t ask what he needed the thing for. He ordered one online, I’m not sure where from, but the options are endless. Starting from Amazon or going directly to a

manufacturer’s website, you can order almost anything you’d like online. I personally got every bit of Christmas shopping done online, even going as far as to order plants. You can order plants on the Internet, and have them shipped to your house. It’s a weird world we live in. But it’s not limited to online shopping. None of my family or friends from Winnipeg live here, obviously, so our friendship suffers, right? Well, any suffrage any of my relationships have endured due to

distance is more a lifestyle and time management issue than anything else. Technology allows for distance to no longer be an issue. Apps like Skype and like FaceTime make seeing the loved ones you miss so easy, with a click of a button, you can have a face-to-face conversation. If you lived on the west coast and your sister lived on the east coast, even 10 years ago, a conversation like you can have today was far less accessible, and cost far more. And even now, I’ll hear my friends back home say, “It’s probably hard on Evan, being so isolated and living in such a small town.”

But simply put, I love where I live, and frankly, I don’t feel isolated at all. Though rural communities still face challenges urban centres do not, in a general sense, I have access to everything someone in the city does. Certain goods do cost more, for instance, but there is some level of choice in living where we do. But we all choose this lifestyle, because it’s worth it to us, for a variety of reasons. And in the grand scheme of things, while living in a small rural town in today’s society, well, doesn’t feel like you do.

The Rocky Mountain Goat is one of just a few locally-owned community newspapers in BC. We believe being part of the community we serve contributes to accountability and a strong local voice, unhindered by corporate profit interests. Thank you for helping to make this publication a success.

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The Rocky Mountain Goat serves a population base of approximately 4,000 residents from Valemount to McBride to Dome Creek and Blue River. It is 100% owned by Valemount residents Laura Keil and Joseph Nusse. RETURN UNDELIVERABLES TO: The RMG, Box 21, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0 The Goat is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, an independent org established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, contact goatnewspaper@gmail.com/566-4606. If you are not satisfied with the response, you can file a complaint at mediacouncil.ca/1-844-877-1163. The Rocky Mountain Goat is produced and distributed by The Rocky Mountain Goat News and is subject to copyright. Reproduction, or distribution of any content must get prior consent from Laura Keil.

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Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A05

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Letters/Op-Ed

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THE GOAT’S LETTER POLICY Please write to us! goatnewspaper@gmail.com Recommended length for letters to the editor is 400 words or less. Letters do not represent the editorial stance of this newspaper. The editor & publisher reserve the right not to publish any material that is libelous. Letters must be signed by your real name or the name you commonly go by, be legible and include a phone number where we can reach you.

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No questions posed to Christmas thieves Dear Editor, Recently someone, in their infinite wisdom, made a very hurtful decision. Whoever this person was decided it would be a good idea to steal an outdoor Christmas Angel on display in my friend’s yard. It is not the monetary value of the Angel causing the problem. It is the meaning and the sentiment attached to the

Angel. This Angel represented a lot more than the most obvious symbol. It was a cherished gift from a friend, a loving memory of someone who has passed and a hopeful symbol of the future. I personally do not understand why someone would think it is alright to do such a thing. Firstly, to steal in itself is wrong. Secondly, to take someone’s Christmas

decorations, to ruin what is supposed to be a time of great sharing and joy for all, is just plain hurtful. These unthinking actions put a decided shadow upon the victims of this senseless crime at what is supposed to be a time of joy and goodwill to all. I would like to ask of the person who did this, and to anyone who may know where this Angel

is: Please, return this Angel to where you took it from, please return it to my friend. No questions will be asked, and it would be greatly appreciated by my friend and those who know her. Thank you, Peggy Valemount, B.C.

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A06 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

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FEEL THE BURN... It’s not just slash piles that are causing Valemount residents to hack

“It is a problem. It still is particulate pollution. I’m not sure an advisory every day would change anything.” Gail Roth, Meteorologist, Ministry of Environment

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by LAURA KEIL As Valemount residents warmed their toes by the fire and tucked themselves in under blankets during the past week’s cold snap, they were tucked into something else as well – a smog that led to the longest air quality advisory in Valemount in years. The Ministry of Environment in collaboration with Northern Health issued an Air Quality Advisory Dec. 7th due to high concentrations of fine particulates. The advisory lasted six days until Dec. 12th, though the air quality was still above the provincial air quality objective that day. Shortly after rescinding the advisory, it was re-issued and was ongoing as of presstime Dec. 13th. Fine particulates are tiny particles that are dangerous due to the way they can get stuck in your lungs and even work their way into your bloodstream, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The evidence shows adverse effects of particulate matter following both short-term and long-term exposures, according to the World Health Organization. Last Wednesday, the Village of Valemount revoked the Burning Permit for a slash burning operation in Village limits, but particulate levels remained high. Cold temperatures likely led homeowners to crank their stoves while a high-pressure system kept the smoke hovering over the village. The air quality — at its worst — was listed as hazardous. The air was nearly twice as bad as Beijing’s Dec. 7th. Though many locals have expressed frustration and health concerns due to the air quality, Spokesperson for Northern Health, Eryn Collins, says the Valemount Clinic hasn’t experienced an influx of patients, nor has it seen a rise in patients reporting respiratory issues due to air quality. Gail Roth, Air Quality Meteorologist for the region, which includes Valemount, says the concentrations are similar to what is experienced by communities affected by forest fire smoke. She said a high-pressure system was moving through which means the poor air quality was slow disperse. Air quality data obtained from the Ministry of Environment shows there were 37 days in Valemount between Dec. 2015 and Dec. 2016 when the concentrations of particulate matter 2.5 was above the air quality objective of 25ppm. During the week of Dec. 6th to 12th, there were 48 individual hours that had concentrations above 100ppm – five times the objective. 15 hours had concentrations

above 299 – 12 times the objective. The data also shows that yearly concentrations of 2.5 particulate matter are above the yearly guidelines by the World Health Organization. Valemount’s yearly concentration this past year was 12ppm, above the guideline of 10ppm. The particulate matter was the worst during night when temperatures drop and people stock their stoves, with air quality often improving during the day.

Advisories not always issued Roth says the Ministry doesn’t always issue air quality advisories when the air quality becomes hazardous. This is due in part to the cyclical nature of the air quality – worse at night, improving during the day. But she also says air quality advisories lose their effectiveness if they are issued all the time. “Often in the case of Valemount we may hit those advisory conditions during those hours but we won’t issue an advisory because, with the exception of those morning hours, the concentrations are low and it happens very frequently - so the usefulness of the advisory loses its power if you’re issuing them every day.” She says the intention of the advisory is to point out a substantial problem where action should be made to reduce particulate. The Goat asked Roth if having high concentrations every day wouldn’t be considered a “substantial problem.” “It is a problem. It still is particulate pollution. I’m not sure an advisory every day would change anything.”

Improving the air quality Roth says municipalities can regulate wood burning. Golden is an example of a community that has outlawed wood fireplaces in new buildings and homes, though old homes are grandfathered in. Other municipalities require that all wood-burning fireplaces and stoves meet Canadian Safety Association standards. Valemount has previously been eligible for woodstove exchange program funding from the Province, but the Village must apply for funding. No exchange program was advertised in the past couple years. Roth acknowledges that in many rural areas, especially northern ones, wood burning is a lifestyle, especially for those with low incomes. But how a person burns wood is often as important as how much. Seasoned dry wood emits far less pollution

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A07

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Temporary Part Time Position with McBride Community Forest Corporation

Photos: Laura Keil and Evan Matthews Opposite page: Slash piles at 202 Ash smouldered after the burning permit was rescinded. Above: Thick smog enveloped the Village Dec. 7th.

The McBride Community Forest is seeking an organized, detail oriented and customer focused individual to perform varied administrative work. Reporting to the General Manager or designate, the Administrative Assistant is responsible for overseeing the day to day running of the MCFC office, including but not limited to reception, records management, information technology support and financial clerk duties. Applicants with SAGE Accounting, Phoenix program experience and a strong background in forestry are preferred. The Administrative Assistant must be able to occasionally work with minimal supervision. This Union position is temporary part time until April 30, 2017. Usual hours of work are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 – 2:00 for 16.5 hours per week Please contact cao@mcbride.ca for a full job description.

than green or wet wood, for instance.

Slash burning blamed Locals took to social media to blame the burning slash piles at 202 Ash for their part in the smog last week. In August 2015, the owners of the 65-acre property at 202 Ash logged the property and stacked the wood debris into slash piles. Nearby residents say the slash piles were first lit on Friday and have been burning since then, despite provincial regulations that limit burning in municipalities to 72 hours and the local bylaw limiting prohibiting burning between 1 AM and 7 AM. The smoke control forecast (venting index) issued by Environment Canada has been rated as poor for McBride (the closest location to Valemount) for the past five days. Provincial regulations say the Venting Index must rated “good” on the day a burn is started and forecast to be “good” or “fair” on the following day. A person who contravenes the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation is liable on conviction to a fine of up to $200,000. Municipal regulations like Village bylaws can be more restrictive but not less, says Rory Smith conservation office service for Omineca region in PG sergeant covering Valemount. The Village of Valemount Open Air Burning Bylaw states that “Burn piles shall only be ignited when weather conditions are

favourable to burn (ie: wind, venting Index- see section 6.4, 6.6).” The bylaw further states that “No person shall burn material in any manner which; a. Produces heavy or toxic smoke and/or fly ash which endangers the health, safety or welfare of persons or animals; or, b. Causes smoke to obscure visibility and thereby creates a hazard to the public at large, or traffic on a public roadway; or, c. Creates a nuisance to those in the area.” If people are concerned someone is not in compliance they can call the RAPP line (Report All Poachers and Polluters) at 1-877-952-7277 or dial #7277 from a cell phone. Smith says because no compliance officer is in Valemount, his office depends on the public to bring compliance issues to their attention. He says if formal complaints are made to the RAPP line, they would then investigate. He says the Goat’s inquiry was the first his office had heard of the situation. The Village of Valemount which issued a burn permit to the 202 Ash property owners did not immediately respond to the Goat’s questions, but released a statement and air quality advisory on Dec. 7th that said: “Air quality is particularly bad because of slash burning within the Village. The Burning Permit for this operation has been cancelled, and the Village is working with the applicant to reduce the smoke. All other

valid burning permits have been cancelled for now until the weather and air quality has improved. Additional wood smoke is being generated by stores and fireplaces as the cold weather continues.” The statement was signed by acting mayor Hollie Blanchette. The advisory says people with chronic medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted. Staying indoors and in air conditioned spaces helps to reduce fine particulate exposure. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease. For more information on current air quality, see: www.bcairquality.ca.

Tips to reduce your personal health risk • Avoid roads with heavy vehicle traffic and areas with wood smoke. • Continue to control medical conditions such as asthma, chronic respiratory disease and heart failure. If symptoms continue to be bothersome, seek medical attention. • Maintaining good overall health is a good way to reduce health risks resulting from short-term exposure to air pollution. • Use common sense regarding outdoor physical activity – if your breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity. Additional tips for those with chronic underlying medical conditions:

• Stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed and reduce indoor sources of pollution such as smoking, vacuuming and use of wood stoves • Run an air cleaner. Some room air cleaners, such as HEPA filters, can help reduce indoor particulate levels provided they are the right size for your home and filters are changed regularly. • Take shelter in air-conditioned buildings which have large indoor volumes and limited entry of outdoor air. Voluntary Emission Reduction Actions • Where wood stoves or fireplaces are the sole source of residential heat, burn well-cured wood, and ensure an adequate supply of combustion air. • Avoid backyard burning and any open debris burning. • Reduce the use and idling of vehicles. Additional Information • Fine particulate (PM2.5) concentrations currently exceed the provincial air quality objective of 25 micrograms per cubic metre, averaged over 24 hours. • Sources of fine particulates contributing to this air quality episode include wood smoke (wood stoves and/or open burning) as well as emissions from transportation sources such as automobiles and truck traffic. • Real-time air quality information from B.C. communities can be found at: www.bcairquality.ca.

To apply for this position in confidence please mail your resume, cover letter and three professional references to ATTENTION: BOD-Admin Assist Position, PO Box 519 McBride BC V0J 2E0 or email to cao@ mcbride.ca Posting Closes December 30, 2016 at 12 Noon

A08 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

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Robson Valley Regional RCMP Police Report

RCMP report, more collisions In an effort to better keep the community informed the Robson Valley Regional RCMP will be providing weekly press releases to the local papers. The list is not inclusive of all calls of service the local RCMP detachments receive, but provides a cross section of what is happening in the Robson Valley.

Photo courtesy of RCMP Valemount RCMP responded to a report of a single vehicle collision with injuries on Highway 5 near Pitney RD. Upon arrival the two occupants were already extracted and being treated in an ambulance. The vehicle left the roadway northbound into a ditch, proceeding for several hundred feet before coming to rest with extensive damage.

Dec 5: Valemount RCMP received a report of a minivan on fire near Red Pass on Highway 16. The fire was extinguished prior to police attendance by an

employee of Lakes District Maintenance, and the lone occupant was uninjured. The driver observed smoke billowing from the motor, pulled the car over and

flames erupted. The investigation into this matter is concluded. Dec 7: McBride RCMP attended a report of a disturbance involving

threats over a motor vehicle incident. A suspect male was identified as also being involved in multiple prior complaints still under investigation.

by EVAN MATTHEWS

develop hot springs near Valemount. Borealis Geopower is the first geothermal company in B.C. to qualify for the Eligible Business Tax Credit,

according to Chief Geologist, Craig Dunn, who says the organization can now give investors a 30 per cent tax credit. In acquiring the ability to give tax credits, Dunn

says Borealis hopes to increase fundraising efforts and investment in order to fund phase one of the Canoe Reach Energy Project, which includes a hot spring and greenhouse development, as Borealis is pairing with a organic food company called Grown Here Farms, for the development of the greenhouse facility, according to Dunn. Grown Here Farms is a company founded around sustainably growing the most nutritive organic produce to nourish B.C. communities, according to its website, as the company doesn’t partake in traditional agricultural

Borealis offering tax credits Tax season is fast approaching, and Borealis is trying a new approach to garner investment, and just in time to

Northern health the northern way of caring

connections

Worried about winter roads? Take the stress out of health care travel with the NH Connections bus service.

Book your trip today: online at nhconnections.ca or call 1-888-647-4997 All buses are wheelchair accessible. Amenities include extra leg room, pillows, blankets, onboard entertainment, and much more!

Dec 8: McBride RCMP received a report that someone collided with the BC Liquor Store building. There was minimal damage to the building and no damage to the vehicle. The female driver was uninjured in the incident. Dec 9: Valemount RCMP received a report of an injured wolf on Highway 16 near Mount Robson. The complainant believed the animal was struck by a vehicle and when he approached it snapped at him. Police attended and conducted patrols to locate the injured animal with negative results. Dec 10: Valemount RCMP attended a report of a possible male overdosing on an unknown substance but an ambulance was refused. Upon police arrival the male became belligerent and threatening. The intoxicated male was arrested for breaching undertaking conditions, uttering threats, and resisting arrest. A bail hearing was conducted later in the day and the male released to appear in court at a later date with several

conditions attached. Dec 11: McBride RCMP received a report of two overdue males sledding in the area. Checks were conducted and narrowed a pending search to the Renshaw sledding area. Contact was later made with the males via cell phone and confirmed safe and uninjured in person by McBride RCMP once they returned to their hotel. Dec 12: Valemount RCMP responded to a report of a single vehicle collision with injuries on Highway 5 near Pitney RD. Upon arrival the two occupants were already extracted and being treated in an ambulance. The vehicle left the roadway northbound into a ditch, proceeding for several hundred feet before coming to rest with extensive damage. The female passenger and male driver were transported to the Valemount health Centre for treatment. The weather and road conditions at the time of the collision were good, and alcohol was not a factor. Investigation into this matter continues.

practices, but rather, greenhouses to grow local organic produce. “We are moving forward with this smaller scale direct-heat project to help de-risk the geothermal reservoir for the development of a larger direct-heat project and the longer term 15 Megawatt power project,” Dunn says. The projects Dunn is referring to are phase two: development of the larger direct-heat project, and phase three, which is the power development. “Our goal is to make this whole project and investment campaign go viral, as a ‘spot of sunshine to the otherwise

very polarized dialogue about energy in Canada,” says Dunn. “It’s a PIMBY approach, a ‘please in my backyard’ style energy project.” Borealis is encouraging locals to contact the company with questions, concerns or interest regarding the project. With more and more investment coming from the community, Dunn says the community continues to won its own project and gets to be part of the project development. “We want to get away from the idea that the energy conversation has to be divisive,” he says.

Do you have a story idea? goatnewspaper@gmail.com 250-566-4606

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A09

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Christmas cooking, made better

Wishing everyone a safe & merry Christmas

Simpcw

First Nation

WARM WISHES Warm wishes FOR for a Cool YuleA COOL YULE Simpson Timber From Larry, Linda and Dean

Products

PHOTO: PHOTODISC / THINKSTOCK

From Larry, Linda and Dean Simpson & Son Contracting

Giving thanks and appreciation for the kind support and love throughout the community. Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas.

from Jocelyn & Gordon Wood & family

Wishing you happy holidays and a joyful New Year!

Do you have a story idea? goatnewspaper@gmail.com

Best wishes from all of us at the Valemount Learning Centre!

250-566-4606

The Greatest Gift of All May you and yours be blessed with the peace and goodwill of out the on season. Before setting a winter road trip, visit

drivebc.ca for the road and weather conditions Personal & Commercial Insurance Brokers

PHOTO: JUPITERIMAGES / THINKSTOCK

In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas, and the gift of His Love.

Holiday hours: Closed Dec. 23, 26 & Jan 2. 1201 - 5th Ave Ph: 250-566-4601

A10 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

www.therockymountaingoat.com

The 100th Dunster Christmas Concert Photos: Beth Russell The 100th Dunster Christmas concert was a hoot this year with lots of special antics from local actors. Below right: Sharon Stearns and Bob Thompson. Below: Monica Zieper. Opposite page top (L to R): Sharon Stearns, Bridget Uhl, Bob Thompson; far right: Bob Thompson. Bottom: Shara Gustafson and Seth Macdonald.

PHOTO: POLKA DOT IMAGES / THINKSTOCK

May peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through!

Merry

s a m t s i r h C

from Sherry & Brian

A Cut Above 1080 Commercial Dr. 250-566-9178

ishing you a Happy Holiday Season and a Properous New Year!

Welcome Home Gifts & Antiques

Happy Holidays

Look for Our Trust magazine in your mailbox this week or find it online!

Align Massage Therapy 250-566-5233

Merry ChristMas and all the best for a happy, healthy new year! Valemount Dental Clinic

From Randy, Dave, Denise, Amy, April, Jen & Lisa 250-566-9993 1070 Main St. Valemount

Wishing you a safe and peaceful Christmas!

Wishing you every happiness this holiday season and throughout the coming year. Request a free 2017 calendar at ourtrust.org/trustcalendar.

ourtrust.org/magazine 1.800.505.8998

Best wishes Best wishes to to everyone everyone for for thethe holidays!holidays! From Jin, Yoon From Jin, Yoon &&allall of of us at us at 250.566.9787 250.566.9787

Merry Christmas All the best for a happy, healthy new year.

from Valemount Pines Golf Club Management and Staff

Season’s Greetings on behalf of management and staff at CIBC Valemount

Canadian Log Homes

Have a Safe and Peaceful Holiday Season

we are closed Dec 24th and 25th

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A11

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Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

From all of us to you and yours, a hearty thanks and

Season’s greetings!

1-800-424-6331

Safe Travels Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2017

from Dennis & Adam

INTERCHURCH CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE at VALEMOUNT NEW LIFE CENTRE Dec. 24th 6:00 p.m. Coffee & refreshments EVERYONE WELCOME

A very

Merry Christmas and a Properous New Year HOLIDAY HOURS Closed Dec 24, 25 & 26th Closed Jan 1st & 2nd

ph. 250 566 4453

Wishing you a safe & peaceful Christmas!

Don’s Social House Merry Christmas! All the best for a happy, healthy

New Year!

ishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year

Wishing you a safe and peaceful Christmas! HAUER BROS LUMBER LTD 250-566-4649

Franke and Sons Automotive Ltd 250-569-8830

Wishing everyone a safe and merry Christmas!

Thank you to all our customers!

from all of us at

from

Merry Christmas! JNR Auto Services

1-888-255-8055

250-569-2666

Best wishes for a Happy Holiday Season!

Haugk Home Design & Renovations 250-981-0457

A12 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

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Lucky Panda Chinese Restaurant

One special guest makes the kids smile Photo: Evan Matthews The Christmas season is upon us in the Valley, as last week many community members gathered for Late Night Shopping and the official lighting of the Community Christmas Tree. A special guest made an appearance during late night shopping at Kinnickinnickers, as many of the children had their photos taken with the one, the only, Santa Clause. Right, then clockwise: Lily-Belle Funk is all smiles after telling Santa exactly what she hoped for this season. Brianna Funk did the same, but she made sure Santa was paying attention with a few gentle kicks to the leg! Paige Haynes took a very sweet approach, and was on her best behaviour. Hey, the big guy only makes it out to the Valley once a year, right?

Merry Christmas! 250-566-8232

Season’s Greetings! Happy Holidays!

McBride Autobody and Towing 250-569-2470

...hoppy holidays!

Ugly Sweater Party

Dec. 23rd!

Wear your ugly sweater for a chance to win prizes

Special Dec. Hours: Dec 22-23: 1-8pm Dec 24: 1-6pm Dec 25: CLOSED

Dec 26-31: 1-8pm Jan 1: CLOSED

1160-5th Ave, Valemount 250-566-0024

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year from McBride Hotel

250-569-2277

A Very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Peaceful 2017

Warm wishes for a happy holiday season from our board and staff

McBride and District Fire Dept. 250-569-3117

’Tis the season to thank all our dear customers for your abundant support throughout the past year.

Season’s greetings from the whole team!

Advantage Insurance Services Ltd. 433 Main St, McBride 250-569-2264

Season’s Greetings We wish you health, peace, joy and prosperity. The best to you and yours for 2017.

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A13

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Meet The Goat under the mistletoe

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

Roman Catholic Christmas Mass Schedules Valemount (Good Shepherd) 1366 3rd Ave. & Elm Dec. 24th Carols @ 10:30p.m. Midnight Mass 11p.m. Dec. 25th Xmas Day Mass 9a.m. Jan. 1st New Year’s Day Mass 6p.m. Blue River (Our Lady of the Snow) Dec. 25th Xmas Day Mass 12p.m. (noon) Jan. 1st New Year’s Day Mass 4p.m.

May the glow of Christmas fill the hearts of you and your loved ones all year. Tee Nee Enterprises

From Bill Jr., Marge & the Tinsley Family

Best holiday wishes to you, and we thank you for your valued business!

Photo: Donna Hamilton Audrey Friesen from Valemount made these lovely toques, modeled by Sebastian and Snowflake at Twin Peaks Resort.

erry Christmas and Happy New Year KILIN RESTAURANT 1117 Frontage Rd, McBride (250) 569-8820

May your Christmas Holidays be merry and filled with friends, family and good times

SMORGASBORD FRIDAYS 5-9PM

from all of us at Monashee Motors Ltd. 250-566-4318

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year!

250-566-5071

250.569.0101 Thank you for giving us so much to celebrate. Merry Christmas!

From all of us at McBride Realty Center Ltd. 250-569-2735

from all of us at

SAFE TRAVELS!

May your glass be filled with joy in the year ahead.

Merry Christmas!

*Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day

At this festive time of year, we’d like to express our gratitude for the privilege of serving our fine customers and friends.

A Very Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful New Year

A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON & NEW YEAR TO ALL! Liberty Transport 1-866-995-1700 Serving the Robson Valley

Mountain Driftwood Lodging 250-566-4213

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Join us on New Year’s Eve! Holiday Hours

OPEN Mon-Sat 4pm-1:30am OPEN from 4:30pm on Boxing Day and open New Year’s Eve. CLOSED Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year's Day.

We hope Santa supplies you with a sleigh full of goodies! Thank you for putting your trust in us. We will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day.

From all of us at Valemount

A14 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2017!

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Valemount Skating Exhibiton

1-800-Sandman sandmanhotels.com Inn McBride

Merry Christmas &Happy New Year

Photos: Evan Matthews Above, then clockwise: A large group of the younger children started the night, as they showcased their skills for all parents in attendance. Later, the older kids took to the ice to mix art and skating. Ellie Rose Dueling is seen below, and to the left, sporting her cape and skating to the song Supergirl, is Danielle Du Toit.

from George Raabis Auto!

We are open during the holidays 9:00-4:30 Ph. 250-566-0063

Wishing a safe and happy holiday season to all! Ramakada Motel 250-566-4555

Warmest wishes this holiday season and a safe and prosperous 2017

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

Merry Christmas and all the best in 2017 Wishing you a warm hearth, a happy home, and the love of those near and dear Merry Christmas from Shelly Battensby, RE/MAX Centre City Realty

With our warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

ef 250-612-2820

Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas From Robert and Eleanor Johnson Real Tree Wood Products 250-569-2459 / 250-569-7912

Stone Haven Inn (250) 566-4609 Season’s Greetings from the Staff at Scotiabank!

250-569-2241

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A15

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A Christmas skate

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

Season’s Greetings!

Peace and Goodwill to All From all of us at

Robson Valley Essentials 250-569-2415

Our warmest thoughts, thanks, and best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a very happy New Year! Robson Valley Home Hardware 250-569-2284

Wishing you a joyous Holiday Season and New Year filled with Peace and Happiness Photo: Bob Hoskins The RCMP and the Valemount Local Action Team hosted a free community skate for Chirstmas in the hopes of raising money and food for the food bank. Here David Grant is seen skating with his wife, Karen Shepherd, and their daughter, Blake.

From all of us at

Robson Valley I.D.A. 250-569-8811

Season’s Greetings to all our valued customers and friends!

Merry Christmas! Cheers to a DEEP Winter!

Happy Holidays! From Robson Valley Long Arm Quilting 250-569-7433

250-566-4401

Happy holidays!

FROM ALL OF US AT THE VIL LAGE OF MCBRIDE! HOLIDAY H O U R S: FRI. DEC. 2 3 – CLOSIN G EARLY AT 1 2:00 NOON DEC. 26 – C LOSED DEC. 27 – C LOSED JAN. 2 - CLO SED

ishing you a joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with Peace and Happiness.

May the beauty and peace of the season stay in your heart forever.

Wishing you a Joyous Holiday Season and a New Year filled with peace and happiness. from Board, Management & Staff

Vanderhoof and Districts Co-op

1-866-309-2667

Willow Burl Cabins A Very Merry Christmas to all and a Prosperous New Year!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thanks for your support throughout the year!

from Terry and Lisa at Summit River Lodge

From everyone at Travis Automobile Services 250-566-8403

From Arnold at 250-566-4401 Tarmigan Towing 250-566-4305

Season’s Gree from the S

A16 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

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Best wishes for the holidays and the coming year!

Winter Garden

820-1st Ave, McBride (250) 569-0320

Wishing you a safe peaceful Christmas

A Very Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful& New Year

Tete Jaune Lodge 250-566-9815

Mountain Driftwood Lodging 250-566-4213

Best Wishes to all during this holiday season

from the

Valemount Public Library

Best wishes for a happy holiday season! Valemount & District

Volunteer Fire Department 250-566-9800

Season’s Greetings! Wishing you Happy Holidays and a peaceful new year

Photos: Rene Nunweiler The winter landscape at the Cranberry Marsh in Valemount recently presented some artistic snow patterns.

250-569-2266

Best holiday wishes from all of us at the Valemount Veterinary Clinic! We are closed December 27th but open 9 am to 3 pm December 29th. Open for food sales January 3rd 11am -2pm Regular hours resume January 5th. For an appointment, please call 250-566-4194.

Season’s Greetings

from Jae & Liz and the staff

ith sincere appreciation for all our clients and friends, we extend our best wishes for a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

McBride AG Foods 250-569-0140

...keep warm!

Valemount Home Hardware (250) 566-4256

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A17

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McBride’s second UNBC Scholar

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Goat staff!

Holiday Hours The Village Office will be closed Friday December 23, 2016, and will re-open Tuesday January 3, 2017. During this time, payments can be made by mail, telephone banking, internet banking and the Village Office Drop Box (located at the bottom of the left main door). All payments received during this time will be dated for December 31, 2016. Mayor, Council and Village Staff wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

Garbage pick-up will remain as scheduled except:

Photo: Jennifer L’Arrivee Auston Gibson was named the second UNBC Scholar from McBride Secondary in 2016. Congratulations, Auston!

Support society gets grant funding by EVAN MATTHEWS The Robson Valley Support Society (RVSS) in Valemount will receive grant funding from the Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Social Grants. CBT recently approved nearly $1-million in funding for 28 projects addressing well-being in the basin, an official statement from CBT reads, as early childhood support, community outreach and food security are some of the themes standing out in the latest list of social sector projects to receive funding. “We are committed to improving the social wellbeing of Basin residents, and our grant program works with the social sector bringing about these positive changes,” says CBT’s Manager of Social Initiatives, Liz Gillis. “It’s really quite remarkable the work these groups take on and how it contributes to the health of all

of our communities,” she says. The funding will be allocated to RVSS’ Community Advocate and Outreach Program (COSW), according to the organization. The COSW helps individuals facing barriers connect with appropriate services to access resources, according to the RVSS website. An example of how the program can do that is providing support to clients with municipal, provincial, and federal systems such as social assistance, immigration, legal aid, disability, housing and health needs, the site reads. “Through this grant, we will be able to help community members identify and overcome obstacles as they access support services,” says RVSS’ Executive Director, Peter Doukakis. “We are excited to have the opportunity to help residents make the right decisions, find resources

to overcome barriers and inspire them to make improvements in their lives,” he says. CBT has distributed over $5-million, the organization says, in efforts to improve social well-being in the basin’s communities since 2012. Decisions pertaining to CBT social grants are made on the recommendations of the Social Grants Evaluation Committee, who reviews the applications, according to CBT. The Committee is a volunteer group of Basin residents, according to CBT, which includes individuals who have experience and expertise in the social sector and individuals who have broader community development experience. More information about the program is available at www.ourtrust.org/ socialgrants.

December 26, 2016: to be picked up December 27, 2016 January 2, 2017: to be picked up January 3, 2017

Seeking Expressions of Interest MCFC Board of Directors There are currently two positions to fill on the five-person board. The MCFC Articles of Incorporation (Section 14.5) grants the right to the Board of Directors to fill these ‘casual vacancies’. Casual vacancies occur when a seat becomes vacant during a term rather than at the end when the vacancy is filled by the Shareholder at the AGM. The term of the positions will be until the 2017 AGM, at which point a person can put their name forward for a full 2-year term. This call for Expressions of Interest is not affected by the current status of the Shareholder. According to Section 14.6 of the Articles of Incorporation, if there is quorum on the MCFC board (which is 3), the board has the power to act. The MCFC is in a time of transition and restructuring as staff and the board work to put into place a framework for responsible fiscal and forest management and a positive relationship with the community. We are seeking people with forestry, financial, community volunteer experience and/or local knowledge to be a part of the team. All potential directors must support the MCFC Board Governance Policy which can be found on the MCFC website on the About Us section.

New Process We believe it is in the best interests of the community and the future success of the MCFC to pilot out a new process that has long been voiced by the community as their preferred method for filling seats on the board. An election will be held in January whereby the people residing in the area served by the MCFC (Holiday Creek {aka Baker} to Ptarmigan Creek) have an opportunity to vote to fill the vacancies. The Board will take the outcome of the election as a community endorsement for the casual vacancies, and has committed to appoint the two people with the highest number of votes. The election process, which will include an all candidates meeting, will be announced in January. If you are interested in becoming a MCFC director, send your name and contact information along with a brief description of your skills, experience and interests to Joseph Rich, MCFC Chair at richboyztoys@hotmail.com. If you submitted an EOI for the board in August, please confirm that you would like to have your name considered in this new process. Deadline for EOI submission is January 6th.

A18 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

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Local Resource Directory

$12/week on a four week basis or $10.50/week on a one year contract

Other Services 1215 5th Ave

Photo Evan Matthews Though the holidays is a happy time of the year for many, other’s struggle mightily. Whether it’s a tragedy as the Meek-Olson housefire, or something as routine as low-income, there are people among all of us struggling. Take the time to donate to the local food bank, or find one of the various charities fundraisers available to give back. A few that jump to mind in Valemount are the food bank, Kinnickinnickers, or the GoFundMe accounts in support of the Meek-Olson family.

Automotive

Fuel Our Energy Serving You

Propane Delivery Residential/Commercial/Industrial Sales/Service/Installation

1-877-873-7467

Monashee Motors Ltd Towing & Auto Repair

3050 Birch Road, Valemount (Cedarside)

• Vehicle Inspections • Tire Sales • Tire Service • Propane

• Oil • RV Supplies • Heavy Truck Tires • Batteries

24-hour towing BCAA Authorized Road Service Open Monday-saturday 8:00 am - 5 pm Closed Sundays & Holidays

• Mechanical Service ...and more!

250-566-4318

Align Massage Therapy

Trades / Construction

Kathryn Smith, RMT Registered Massage Therapist Ph. 250 566 5233

LEVANT ELECTRIC

1070 Main St. Valemount BC V0E 2Z0 katsmithrmt@gmail.com

Serving the Robson Valley 250-569-7286 Dome Creek BC

Blair Levant

Are you a subscriber to The Goat?

FSR #106311

Other Services

Get an online subscription to give as a gift for just $20! Contact us at goatnewspaper@gmail.com or (250) 566 4606 today!

250.566.8288

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Bell or Telus Channel 653 across Canada Or find us over-the-air on Channel 7

Passport photos And More!

*new address 1330 8th Ave* goatnewspaper@gmail.com 566-4606 / 566-5135

* Passports (incl. babies!) * Firearms * Visas * Citizenship * Family * Weddings Call Andru McCracken 250-566-3050 or Laura Keil 250-566-5135

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A19

www.therockymountaingoat.com The Rocky Mountain Goat is pleased to bring you

Robson Valley

Community Events

Send us your event to goatnewspaper@gmail.com ph 250-566-4606. Use 40 WORDS or less and we will publish it FREE

UPCOMING EVENTS Valemount

Fri & Sat Dec. 16 & 17 Valemount Secondary School gym hosts the Junor Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Tournament. Valemount Girls play first game on Friday at 3:20 pm, while the Boys’ play their first game on Friday at 7:35 pm. The Boys’ Team from McBride plays first on Friday at 4:45 pm, while the Girls’ Team plays its first on Friday at 6:10 pm Sat. Dec 17th Christmas Potluck Supper at Golden Year’s Lodge 6pm. All seniors welcome. Turkey and potatoes supplied by club. Sun, Dec 18 Tete Jaune Community Club. 5:30 pm

Potluck dinner with Santa. Turkey and ham will be provided ~ please bring a side dish, salad and/or dessert.

McBride Sun. Dec. 25th Community Christmas Day Dinner 4pm at the E-Free Church. FREE turkey dinner. No reservations necessary. Volunteer help and cooks needed. Call Betty 569-3386. Sponsored by Community Members and the churches of McBride.

Evening concert at 7pm for the general public tea, coffee, juice and goodies to follow. Concert for seniors of the valley and those who cannot come to the evening concert 11 AM with a luncheon following at 12 (noon). Buses will bring out and return any seniors from McBride and Valemount compliments of diversified bus and their volunteer drivers. Leaving Golden Years Lodge in Valemount at 10:00 am. Leaving Beaverview Lodge in McBride at 10:15 am.

Saturdays 8:00am Prayer community 9:30am Bible study/ Sabbath school 11:00am Worship service @ Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1075 Lamming Pit Road, McBride. Phone: 250-569-3370. Choir practice in McBride, 2pm; Mountain Chapel on Main St. All ages welcome. Questions? contact Barb (569-8882, ringnut@ telus.net).

Mon. Dec. 12th Dunster Christmas Concert at the Dunster Schoolhouse -

Evangelical Free Church, McBride Worship @ 10:30 am. Ph: 569-2378

Sports Drop-in adult hockey Sundays 6:30 and Wednesdays 8:15 at the Valemount arena. Full gear required. Drop-in volleyball and badminton at Valemount Secondary gym. Volleyball Tuesdays 7-9 and badminton Thursdays 7-9

Prayer meeting Wed 7pm at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1075 Lamming Pit Road, McBride. Ph: 250-569-3370.

Drop-in volleyball Mondays 7-9 at the McBride Secondary School Gr 8 and up. Jodi Littlechild 250-569-7899.

Valemount Anglican United Church 7th Ave and Cedar Street - Sunday 10am.

Drop-in basketball for yrs 12 and up at McBride High School, Thurs 6-8pm. Free. Christine 250-569-0090

McBride Anglican United Church 441 Dominion Street Sunday @10:00am. Christian Science Services Dunster Sunday Worship @ 10:00am. Phone: 250-968-4349 Valemount Community Church • Evangelical Free Church of Canada Sunday 11am ph. 250566-0070 970 Main St (Valemount Legion) Good Shepherd Catholic Church 3rd Ave and Elm Street Valemount. Sunday Mass @ 6pm Phone: 250-566-4662 New Life Sanctuary 1247-1st Avenue Valemount Worship @ 11:00am Mountain Chapel 299 Main street McBride Phone: 250-5693350 St Patrick’s Catholic Church 197 Dominion street, McBride Phone: 250-569-2606

We distribute each week’s paper in Jasper. We’re always working harder to get your message out.

Dunster Advertise today: 250-566-4606 / 250-566-5135

ONGOING EVENTS Church

The Goat frolics in Jasper

Pickleball at the McBride High school, Wed 7-9pm. We will play every Wednesday that the school is open. Age range is High School students to adults. All equipment is provided. Bring runners and come try it out. For information call Sharron at 250-569-2583.

Clubs & Groups RVSS Adult Literacy group Games Day. Join us for games, refreshments and some laughs. Tues 1-3 in the afternoon. 942 3rd Ave., McBride. 18+ Geek Squad. Mondays at 3pm at the Library Annex. Ages 9-13. Limited spots, so please let us know you’re coming. Discover technology with computer programming, robotics and more.

Every Monday 7:00-9:00pm Knitting @ Sandy Bernie’s House 835 Bridge Road, McBride. The Valemount Scribblers creative writing group for all levels of writers. Most Thursdays 6:45pm-8pm. Like to write? Join us! 566-9121 Music Jam. Tuesdays 7:00pm @ the McBride Library Annex. Want to learn new music? Tired of playing alone? Come out for bluegrass, folk, country, rock. Phone: Dave Marchant at 250569-2569. Taking Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) group meets Tues @ the McBride Health Unit. 1126 5th Avenue 6:30pm.

Monthly Book Discussion. Meets the 4th Thursday of the month at 1:30pm at the McBride Library. Themes change monthly, check in at 569-2411 or find us on Facebook. All welcome! The Valley Piecemakers meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Home Economics room of McBride Secondary 1300 2nd Ave at 7pm. Always welcoming new members. For more info contact Barb Brabant 250-569-0068 Monthly Meeting of the Dunster Fine Arts School Society will be held on the last Thursday of each month, 7:00pm @ the school. All welcome! Fibre Arts Group, Thurs 10am in the McBride Library annex. (previously met at Odds & Ends) Bring your knitting, crochet or needlework project and come hang out!

Council Meetings Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 7:00pm in Valemount, and McBride.

The OAPO Stitch and Knit will be meeting @ the Beaverview Lodge, McBride Thurs from 2:004:00pm.

The Valemount Children’s Activity Society holds board meetings on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the centre.

Unity in Community, Thurs at 7:30pm, McBride Health Centre. 250-569-2586

Tete Jaune Community Club monthly meetings at 7 pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the T-Jaune Community Hall Adventist Community Services meets Tues 1:00-3:00pm and 7:00-8:00pm @ the Seventh Day Adventist Church 1075 Lamming Pit Rd, McBride. Anglican United Church Women’s Group Thrift Shop open 1:00-3:00pm Every Tuesday & Friday @ church hall, 459 Dominion St, McBride. Toastmasters 7:00-9:00pm (1st and 3rd Tuesday) at Golden Years Lodge upstairs in the lounge. Call 566-4179 Saddle & Wagon Club meetings every 3rd Thurs. at 5pm. Contact 566-1779.

Book Club for adults – Meet second Thursday of the month at 7pm at the library. Call 250566-4367 for more info. McBride and District Chamber of Commerce meets at 6:30pm on the 3rd Wednesday of each month, @ the Evangelical Free Church Hall. Bingo at McBride Legion Hall, every 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesday of the month. 6:30 Early Bird starts.

Youth The McBride Play group is meeting on Fridays 10 am to noon at the E-Free Church. All kids ages 0-6 and their care-givers are welcome to come out for playtime, socializing and a free

snack! For more information, please call Emilia Roth @ 5696809 McBride Parent-Child Group. Meeting Fridays 10:00am @ 521 Main St. Open to all caregivers and their kids. Drop by for play time and to meet with other families! Please bring water bottle for your child. Info: 5692411 Game Zone. Fridays at 7pm, McBride Library. Board games, WiiU & more! Ages 13+ RVSS Valley Girls. For ages 12 and up. Wed 3:00 - 4:30 in the afternoon. Share time with other girls, enjoy activities, be heard and make a difference. 942 3rd Ave., McBride. Dunster Playgroup. Meets on Thursdays from 10am to noon at the Dunster Schoolhouse. Kids 0 to 6 grab your grown up and come enjoy open play, crafting and gym time. Please bring a snack to share. Info: 569-4033

Seniors Valemount Seniors’ Music Night, 7:00pm Wednesday at the Valemount Golden Years Lodge. Gentle Seniors’ Exercise, Tues 10-11am, upstairs, Golden Years Lodge, Valemount. Call Diane on 250 566 4297 for more info. Seniors Bingo @ the Beaverview Lodge, McBride Thurs 6:30pm. Cribbage and other games: Everyone Welcome; @ the Valemount Golden Years Lodge lower level Thurs 1-4 pm.

Wellness

1-3pm 942 3rd Ave., McBride. 18+ Hatha Yoga at the Valemount Community Hall. Tues & Thurs 6:30 – 8:00 PM. Dropin $10. For more info call Brigitta 566-9196 AA meetings every Friday 8:00pm @ the Valemount Catholic Church. Free. All welcome. Phone: 250-566-1139 Valemount Ladies walking group meet Thurs at 1pm @ the Anglican/United Church parking lot.

Workshops Want to learn how to knit? Already know how and want to get together to socialize? Willing to share your knowledge? The Valemount Public Library is offering space and supplies Sunday afternoons from 2-4pm Every Monday from 11am-1pm resume and Cover Letter Workshop, free, at the Valemount Learning Centre. Helping you create your best resume yet! Call 250-566-4601 for more info. Free One-on-One Computer Tutoring Wed 4pm and Fridays 11:00am and 1:00pm @ the Valemount Public Library. Phone: 250-566-4367 to book a session.

Other Coming up in December: Sundays open mic coffee house at the Valemount Legion 2–4 pm. Show your roots or just enjoy. Dinner and live music at Legion Branch #266, Valemount. Frtdays 5:30-9:00 pm

Yoga in McBride with Jeanette Chiupka. Wednesdays 4:30-5:30 @ the fire hall. RVSS Adult Literacy Craft Club. A new quick, easy and fun craft each week. Come on in Fridays

The Rocky Mountain Goat is owned and operated locally. We employ local people and give 10% of annual revenue back to the community through non-profit discounts and direct donations.

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A20 PUZZLE Thursday, NO. 585Dec 15th, 2016

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7, 2016

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

PUZZLE NO. 852

ARIES

You’ll be rushing to finish decorating your home since you’ll be hosting a last-minute party. Let your pride be your guide as you create a stunning ambiance.

TAURUS

You’ll be taking part of the week off to take care of your house or your children. You’ll become involved in a community activity that drastically increases your self-esteem.

GEMINI

You won’t hold back when it comes to speaking your mind. You’ll be saying what most people are thinking. Look to confirm certain rumours with the main parties involved.

CANCER

s haven’t se will be ave young em, along p camp in

You still have some shopping to do, which could send you over budget. However, everyone appreciates this luxury, and you’ll receive some praise. ANSWER LEO TO PUZZLE NO. 587 You’ll have a lot of arrangements to make and everything will be urgent. At work, be the first to arrive and the last to leave. Your boss will take notice of your efforts.

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HOW TO PLAY:

AQUARIUS

You could receive a marriage proposal from a complete stranger, or from a loved while on vacation. This week is going to be one surprise after another, much to your delight.

PISCES

It takes a lot of effort to finish all container your work on time before you leave for the holidays. Thankfully, everymake you thing goes as planned and accoru’ll round ith no apparentding aim to expectations. On a profesntaneous sional level, you’ll be finishing the ivity durrite year in style.

(2 words)

THE TOUGHIE by Myles Mellor

Answers on A13!

43 47

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58.Stags and bucks 59.Rends

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ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 852

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

The Goat Classifieds: now online, too!

46 50

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Answers on A13!

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8. Soothing 35.In a regal 9. Give a happy manner look 38.Greeted 10.Pig sound 42.Zoo 11.Droops enclosures 19.Fix 44.Madison 21.Experts Avenue 22.Hawaiian feast employee 23.Morsels for 45.Elevated aardvarks 25.Roam 46.Not busy 28.“____ 47.Rotten Sawyer” 49.Barricade 30.Anytime 53.Purpose 31.Broadway 54.Less than blinker many 32.Decade ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 588 55.Lard numbers

Week of December 18 to 24, 2016

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THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: AND CAPRICORN. PUZZLE NO. 851

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The Rocky Mountain Goat reserves the right to refuse to print any classified submission that is not an advertisement of a private sale, or rental arrangement.

58 Wander 59 Drowsy DOWN 1 Girl’s club (abbr.) 2 Time period 3 White House nickname 4 Cafe 5 Palm species 6 Sound of astonishment 7 About (2 words) 8 Something obviously correct 9 Spa liquid 10 Nonsense!

goatnewspaper@gmail.com 250-566-4606

11 Contraction 17 Tavern serving 19 Invitation letters 20 Lhasa’s land 21 Shoot at 22 Addition 24 Animal with a snout 25 Watch brand 26 Trails 28 Biblical transport 29 Freight volume 30 Mature sheep 34 Tree part 37 Swab target 39 Snorted

41 44 45 46 47

“Told ya!” Sea flier Look maliciously Disagreeable smell Government group monitoring food and drugs 48 Drink from a dish 49 Musical literary piece 51 Goings-on 52 Downturn 53 Swine enclosure

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 A21

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Please see www.valemountlearningcentre.org for a list of links to other jobs that may not be listed above. We are here to help. Please call or drop in. For more information on these jobs or other employment assistance services visit us at Regency Place1201-5th Ave, Valemount. www.valemountlearningcentre.org

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The Goat Classifieds: now online, too! www.therockymountaingoat.com/classifieds-valemount-mcbride 1530 Week of 12.12.2016

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ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 852

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

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DOWN 1. Happy 2. Fee 3. On 4. Villain 5. ____-out (disgusted) 6. Join forces with 7. Blur 8. Minor thing 9. Employ 10.Long narrative 11.Tree house

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ox is outlined with a darker line. You e a few numbers to get you started. You must not repeat the numbers in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

Services

A22 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

www.therockymountaingoat.com

Senior Girls’ Team hosts tourney, goes undefeated by EVAN MATTHEWS

The Valemount Secondary School Gym is a busy place, of late, as the Senior Boys’ and Girls’ teams hosted a basketball tournament last weekend. The tournament started with the Valemount Girls beating the Hinton team handedly, winning by a final score of 70-11. They continued their dominance for the rest of the tournament, going undefeated (4-0) and beating teams from Fraser Lake, Burns Lake and Bella Coola to win their bracket. “The Girls’ team is very talented this year, and they’ve paid their dues,” says Tim Nusse, head

coach. “We’ll see how far they can go.” The Boys’ team, unfortunately, did not fare as well, going winless (0-3) over the tournament and finishing last. Fort St. James won the Boys’ Division. The silver lining for the Valemount Senior Boys’ team, however, is every game was tightly contested. The lost by 16, eight and 19 points in each of their respective games, showing a high level of compete and resiliency. The Junior Boys’ and Girls’ teams will be hosting a tournament this weekend, Dec. 16 and 17.

Photos: Evan Matthews The above photos are from the Valemount Girls’ Team’s dismantling of the Hinton Team, 70-11. Below, the eventual Boys’ Division Champion, Fort. St. James, eyes down the Valemount Boys’ Team from accross the hardwood. The Valemount Boys’ Team would ultimately lose by 9.

Gardening with Pete Kitchen garden

I have always wanted to make a kitchen garden (jardin potager – kitchen garden in French) where I could have easy access from the house to all the things I use daily in cooking my meals. I have seen many examples of these in the books and magazines that take up so much of my time in winter. Most look like they belong on large estates with many servants to care for and harvest the salad greens and young vegetables. However, I would aim for a smaller one. Of course, being a typical gardener, I would leave room to expand! Most potagers have quite

a formal look with permanent paths and raised or slightly raised beds that are never stepped on. Because they are going to be planted quite intensively, the soil in the beds should be very enriched with old manures and compost. If many greens are to grown, chicken and horse manure have the most nitrogen to green up the leaves. A nearby compost heap layered with horse manure would really help. The paths can be dug out and mounded to make the beds and then filled in with gravel for drainage, then sand, a layer of heavy plastic to keep the weeds

down, and flat stones or bark mulch for the actual path. The beds can be dug deeply when the manure and compost are added and then never walked on again. They should be no more than two feet (60cm) wide, or four feet (120cm) if they can be reached from both sides. Most potager designs are quite geometrical with a circle, diamond or square in the middle and then paths radiating out in all directions with many beds. Your imagination is the only limit on how formal or inventive the garden design becomes. If you put small decorative posts at the corners of

each bed or make trellises for peas, beans and other climbers, these can be used to keep the garden hoses off the beds. Planting a potager should be done as you would a flowerbed. Think of the heights, colours, dates to maturity, etc when planting each bed. Mixing in marigolds, nasturtiums, etc among the vegetables not only brightens up the garden, but also helps to control insects. Large and invasive vines like pumpkin, squash or potatoes are best planted in the regular vegetable garden. Beds of herbs seem to be right at home in the potager.

Pete has lived, worked & gardened in the Dunster area for 35 years. He tries to deal with the “down to earth nuts and bolts of organic gardening” in his columns.

The planting in the potager is much more intensive than in a row garden as the entire surface of the bed is planted. With good planning, later vegetables will take over where earlier ones were harvested. For example planting radishes among the carrots would work like this. I think the only trouble I may have with building a potager is trying to keep it

to a manageable size. From all the reading I have done, it takes two full half-days per week to keep up with one that is 50 feet square (15m). The question is, “Can I keep it small?” If you drop in for a visit next summer and I start speaking to you with a funny French accent, you will know I am spending too much time in my new “potager”. [16158]

Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x201A; A23

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- unique 49 acre property - Fraser River frontage - world famous recreation area - property mostly in natural state

- approximately 60 acres - good access off of Loos Road - some cleared - mostly natural state - power into property

- small farm 157 acres - 135 cleared - no buildings - fenced and gated - near Vanderhoof

865 4th Avenue, McBride

3120 Mountain View Rd, McBride

896-4th Ave McBride

- large home- full basement - great floor plan - detached garage - currently rented

- sunny southern exposure - nicely renovated 4 bdrm 2 bath - 3 bay garage - great views, minutes from McBride

- 5 Bdrms 2 Bathrooms - newer windows and roof - neat and clean - carport and deck.

172 Holdway Street, McBride

1295 Juniper St, Valemount

3874 Hwy 16 W, McBride

,0 $110

,0 $489

,0 $749

00 $95,0

,00 4 1 2 $

,0 $129

- home and motel - on 4 lots- room to expand - well-kept - work from home

- viable cedar mill - over 62 acres with hwy access - rail access on property -10,000 sq ft building

1025-9th Ave Valemount

877 5th Avenue, McBride

$81,0

$32,5

- level lot, great views - nice trees - great location - ready for your home

- level building lot - services at lot line - nice street - great views - priced to sell

Hwy 5 DL7139 Valemount

,00 $450

1215 5th Ave, Valemount

- 680 acres - diverse property - Cotton Wood River Frontage - over 200 acres in pasture and hay - mostly fence and gated.

- 17.7 Acres - Hwy 5 Frontage - incredible mountain views - one of 4 parcels

- internet service provider - turn-key business - includes towers - generates good income!

- approximately 4300 sq ft - 3 phase power - excellent location - well maintained

196 2nd Ave, McBride

0 $13,5

- commercial lot - excellent location - great views - excellent price !

195 Rau Road Cotton Wood Rural Quesnel

00 0 , 9 2 4

,0 $175

A24 Thursday, Dec 15th, 2016

www.therockymountaingoat.com

YELLOWHEAD REALTY LTD PHONE 250-566-4438 FAX 250-566-4460 EMAIL yellowheadrealty@telus.net

A Rocky Mountain lifestyle can be yours!

John Peterson, R.I., A.A. Owner/Broker

Visit our website to see all of our listed properties w w w . y e l l o w h e a d r e a l t y. c o m

Bela Janum

Member of the BC Northern Real Estate Association

JOHN 250-566-1017

Office Administrator

FA-532 Lot #3. 1 of 4 newly developed small acreages located within Village limits. Now available with water to the property, and hydro, phone nearby. Beautiful mountain views. Plan your property to your unique style and make it truly yours! 2.47 acres, zoned RR1.

$425,000

$175,000 FA-528 Approximately 217 acres of versatile property. River frontage on Fraser River. Approximately 150+ acres cleared. Southern exposure. Abundant wildlife. Approximately 31 km from McBride on Mountainview Road. Zoned Ru5.

$285,000

$1,499,000 MC-21 COMMERCIAL BUILDING IN MCBRIDE. 11,250 sq. ft. total. Developed partial basement, upper floor with conference room, 2 offices and a washroom. Lot is 95’ X 125’. Very well maintained & in good condition. Owner financing available.

$150,000

FA-436V LOOKING FOR SOLITUDE? Approximately 22 acres about 15 minutes south of Valemount. Secluded property with trails throughout. Backs onto Crown land with creek frontage. Hydro line on property, telephone and high speed internet connection. Geo tech study completed.

FA-498V Approx. 5.52 acres just minutes from Valemount. 3000+ sq ft of living space, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, includes fridge, propane stove, microwave, dishwasher, window coverings, washer, dryer and electric/wood furnace. Outside, make use of the 3 bay shed built for storing your RV or boat.

$349,900 VC-149 INCOME PRODUCER 1171 Juniper St -6 Unit Apartment building with –1 Bachelor, 1-1 Bedroom and 4 - 2 Bedroom units. • 1177 Juniper St – 0.17 acre lot, zoned R5 • 1199 Juniper St - 3 Bedroom House • 146 Ash St - 12 Unit Apartment building with—7– 1 bedroom, 5– 2 bedrooms (Roof replaced in 2012) • 204 Ash St - Development lot– Vacant with services. OWNER WILLING TO SELL PROPERTIES SEPARATELY.

FA-514DC FRASER RIVER FRONTAGE. This remote property is in the vicinity of Dome Creek. Abundant wildlife and panoramic mountain views grace this property.

$129,900 BR-58 HIGHWAY FRONTAGE FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL VENTURE! Approximately 1.85 acres along Highway 5. Zoned C3 Commercial.

YR-R386 DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH! This home is looking for the right person. Over 1600 sq. ft. of stairless living space, featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen/dining room and living room. To be sold in as is condition. Lots of potential for those who do it yourself.

$139,000

$199,000

We offer a wide selection of homes, farm, ranches, commercial and residential properties in the Robson Valley including Valemount, Dunster, McBride, Crescent Spur, Blue River, and Avola

We appreciate your business! Please visit our website to see our full range of listings!

McBride Realty Center Ltd

250-569-2735 OR 1-877-569-2735 rodger@mcbriderealty.com www.mcbriderealty.com Specializing in residential, commercial, recreational, acreage & ranch properties Integrity - Matching great people with wonderful properties - Honesty

$189,000

$470,000

$249,000

Rodger Peterson Realtor

SOLD MRC-A728 Loos Rd, Crescent Spur, BC

MRC-DA867 3496 Laing Rd, McBride, BC

Private 88 acres on gov’t maintained road about ½ hr drive 164 acres, 3 bdrm home with basement. 2 creeks, gardens, west of McBride. Water rights off Snowshoe Creek, old an orchard. Tree plantation, trails, abundant wildlife. growth cedar, mountain views & good access. Beautiful mountain views. First water rights in place. Backs onto gov’t land.

$199,000

MRC-R854 833 – 3rd Ave , McBride, BC

4 bdrm home, open floor plan, large master bdrm, walkin closet, ensuite w/ Jacuzzi. Lots of kitchen cabinets. Cedar panel fence, big deck, lovely backyard. New 2-car insulated & wired garage built in 2013.

$21,500

MRC-BL825 853 – 3rd Ave, McBride, BC

50’ x 125’ lot in quiet section of town. Zoned R2 for residential – one family with accessory use permitted where a principal use is established as home occupation. Within walking distance to all amenities. Town services available.

MRC-C891 928 Airport Rd, McBride, BC

4 lots, buildings. Total 2 acres - zoned M2. Some of the permitted uses include Sawmill, Vehicle Body Work and Mechanical Repair, Salvage/Wrecking Yard.

If a realtor’s “For Sale” sign is on it, I can represent you, and show you the property!

$285,000

MRC-DA833 3490 Garrett Rd, McBride, BC

Cozy log cabin on 110 acres. Upstairs loft undeveloped. River frontage. Good access, well treed, exceptional views, numerous outbuildings. Estimated 30 acres hay field. About a 15 minute drive from McBride. Lots of wildlife to view, good fishing! $285,000

Aerial videos available on selected properties!