vol3issue3

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Vol. 3/Issue 3

The Upper

Columbia

P IONEER

January 20, 2006

FR

EE

Serving The Upper Columbia Valley including Spillimacheen, Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

Contents News

2

Perspective

6

Road to Gold

9

Classifieds

13

Knit one, purl two

2 Snow show

10 Small world

14

Les Kaszai floods the ice at Kinsmen Beach.

The cool weather hit in the knick of time for the On The Lake Bonspiel, set to go this weekend. Photo by Bob Ede

MORE IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER. EXCEPT WHEN IT COMES TO RETIREMENT SAVINGS. More is definitely good. Start with a modest savings plan and watch your money multiply. Ask us how to get started today.

Invest now.

2 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

Valley News

Fiona brings back knitting

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Staff

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BARRY

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ERIC

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PAT

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BEVAN

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IAN

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PAUL

341-5300 Fairmont Village Mall, Fairmont

Phone: 345-4000 Fax: 345-4001 Main Street, Invermere www.rockymtnrealty.com

Phone: 342-6911

Fiona Bradford at the local high school has started two knitting groups for students.

About 30 high school girls have signed up to spend one or two lunch hours each week learning to knit.

Since September they have created some beautiful belts and scarves and are rapidly progressing to more difficult projects.

The program was started by school social worker Fiona Bradford, who didn’t know how to knit until she was taught by her mother Rosemary Bradford.

“I’m keeping one step ahead of the girls,” Fiona said. She spent part of her Christmas holidays practicing with her eight-year-old daughter Emily and five-year-old daughter Marcia - both of whom are also knitting.

Fiona began by ordering 280 balls of yarn from Ebay and since she published a notice in The Pioneer asking for donations, she has received boxes of yarn and knitting needles donated by the community.

“Thank you very much to everyone who donated,” she said. The free supplies mean the girls don’t have to spend their own money.

She said she would love to have guests from the community drop in and give the girls a few tips, or show off their own handmade knitted items.

Fiona said the program appeals especially to girls in the younger grades, but she has a few girls in the older grades as well. “No boys yet, but I’m hoping.”

Knitting has become popular again across North America, she said. She said studies show that people who knit have lower stress levels.

“I have a vision of the whole school knitting.”

Lake bonspiel planned for weekend Invermere’s annual Bonspiel on the Lake is a go.

Beginning today and running throughout Saturday and Sunday, the bonspiel is the world’s only outdoor curling event.

This year’s edition of the lake spiel was in doubt after some unseasonably warm weather descended on Invermere and took the sting out of winter’s bite.

But the weekend forecast is good. Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing throughout the event.

The frigid weather is excellent news to event organizer Jim Galloway and the many volunteers who worked throughout the week.

It was not until Wednesday morning that the final decision was made to hold the event outdoors.

Sixty-four curling teams from all over British Columbia and southern Alberta will hit the ice during the bonspiel.

Last year’s event was moved indoors to the Joe Peters Curling Club due to warm weather.

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The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 3

January 20, 2006

PST under microscope

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Staff The Minister of Small Business and Revenue Rick Thorpe told The Pioneer in an interview this week that his government wants to crack down on people who avoid the provincial sales tax by shopping in Alberta.

The province has asked Costco for its sales records dating back to 1998 including names and addresses of B.C. shoppers.

Legally, all B.C. residents who purchase taxable items outside the province are required to submit their seven-percent sales tax to the provincial government.

But Mr. Thorpe said it’s only the expensive items that the government is concerned about, such as boats, snowmobiles, appliances and entertainment centres.

Losing the sales tax on those “big-ticket items” costs the province millions in lost revenue, he said.

“We are not going after people who are going to Costco and buying cheese,” he said.

He said he could not comment further on the Costco request since it is before the courts. Costco is seeking an injunction against the move, citing its corporate privacy laws.

Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald wasted no time in criticizing the government’s request.

“It’s the wrong way to go, completely,” Mr. Macdonald said in Invermere this week. “It’s punitive and it’s intrusive. Whose business is it where I shop?” he asked, hastening to add that he shops locally.

The seven-per-cent provincial sales tax has always been a bone of contention between the two provinces

and lately the issue has been coming under scrutiny.

Last week the province rejected a proposal to allow shoppers in the Columbia Valley and other border communities to pay a reduced PST of four percent in an effort to prevent them from shopping in Alberta.

The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce immediately made the PST issue the focus of its annual general meeting, to be held at noon Wednesday, January 25 at the Invermere Inn. “We are urging everyone to come out and discuss what our next step should be,” said chamber president Dee Conklin.

Al Miller, owner of the local Home Hardware, said the economic loss to valley retailers from crossborder shopping is huge.

“Just go and sit at the crossroads on a sunny afternoon and watch the truck loads coming in,” he said.

However, he said he doesn’t agree with the request to Costco. “I don’t expect when I sign up for something that my name will be passed around,” he said, adding that he appreciates that the province is trying to avoid losing any more revenue.

However, Small Business Minister Rick Thorpe said cutting the sales tax isn’t the answer. He said surveys show only 10 to 14 percent of people living in border communities said they were going to Alberta specifically to saves taxes, while more than 75 percent said they were visiting Alberta for other reasons and shopped while they were there.

Mr. Thorpe said his ministry is responsible for enforcing the tax laws. “When someone gives us a tip or information about someone who is avoiding paying sales tax, then we will act,” he said.

Abbott will win: Pioneer poll

By Adrian Bergles Pioneer Staff If it was up to valley voters, the Conservatives would steamroll to victory in Monday’s federal election.

In an unofficial poll conducted Monday morning in Invermere, long-time incumbent Ko o t e n a y - C o l u m b i a Member of Parliament Jim Abbott received more support among decided voters than candidates from all other parties combined.

Eleven of 25 respondents said they’d vote for Mr. Abbott’s Conservatives, compared with four each for the Liberals and the Green Party.

Five respondents said they were undecided and one does not plan to vote at all. Not one person said they planned to vote for New Democratic Party candidate Brent Bush.

Many of those who will vote for Mr. Abbott said they appreciated the job he’s done since being elected as a member of the Reform Party back in 1993.

“I believe Jim has done a terrific job in the riding working for his constituents,” said one Conservative supporter. “He’s been very conscientious of representing the people here in Ottawa.”

“I like Abbott’s style,” said another supporter.

“He seems like a very down-to-earth man. I think he could do a lot for the valley as a member of the government.”

Among some supporters Mr. Abbott was even more popular than Stephen Harper, the leader of the federal Conservative Party. “I’m not voting for Harper,

I’m voting for Abbott,” said one respondent.

A strong sense of discontent with government was expressed by many of those polled.

“They can all go fly a kite,” said one man, who said he would be voting for Green Party candidate Clements Verhoeven.

The Green party was a popular choice, attracting as much support as the Liberals.

“I’m voting Green because I believe in the legalization of marijuana,” said one man. If elected to power, the Green Party has promised to regulate marijuana in the same way as alcohol and tobacco.

“Mulroney’s Conservatives screwed us over and so did the Liberals,” said one man, who said he will vote Green in protest.

The informal poll showed Liberal candidate Jhim Burwell lagging behind the Conservatives and tied with the Green party in second place with four supporters.

Some of those supporting the Liberals said they believed current Prime Minister Paul Martin inherited a flawed government from former prime minister Jean Chretien. Mr. Martin was sworn in as Canada’s 21st Prime Minister in December 2003.

“I’m going for Paul Martin,” said one. “I think he got shafted by the ones before.”

Another said he trusted the Liberals to maintain Canada’s strong economy. “I think the Canadian economy depends on a party like the Liberals,” he said.

Some of those who had not yet decided on their vote said they were jaded by Canada’s political process.

“Even the party that I usually vote for has pissed me off,” said one woman.

The one person polled who said she would not vote expressed apathy. “I don’t usually vote, but then I don’t complain about anything,” she said.

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performing

Mozart’s Symphony #39 and his Requiem

Sunday, Jan. 29, 2006 at 2:00 pm

Christ Church Trinity, Invermere

Teaser ads for the Pioneer rev Tickets: July 2005 $25 adults, $2011th seniors, $10 twag students Available at: Dave’s Book Bar, Stober’s, Pynelogs

presented by

supported by

British Columbia Arts Council

District of Invermere PRESS RELEASE All property owners within the District of Invermere have recently received their assessment notice from the B.C. Assessment Authority. Residential assessments in Invermere have increased by a total of 32% over 2005 and commercial by 19%. This growth reflects changing market values for all properties within the community.

The District of Invermere has no control over these increases, and does not control the assessment process. Your property assessment, in combination with the municipal tax rates, generate the revenue required to provide services and fund municipal operations. You may or may not see an increase in your municipal portion of property taxes this year. For example: • If the municipality was to collect the same amount of revenue from taxes as last year and your assessment went up exactly the average, you would see no increase in your municipal taxes.

• If your assessment went up greater than the average assessment, you would see an increase, if it went up lower than the average, you would see a decrease.

The municipality is commencing its budget deliberations and the municipal tax rate will not be set until May 2006. It is important to note that municipal taxes only make up 49% of your tax bill.

The other 51% we collect on behalf of other agencies (School, R.D.E.K., Hospital, B.C. Assessment Authority and Municipal Finance Authority). Again, we have no control over the other agency’s tax rates.

Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2005 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact the B.C. Assessment office at 1-800556-9229 on their notice prior to January 31, 2006.

P.O. BOX 339, 914 8th AVENUE, INVERMERE, B.C. V0A1K0

TELEPHONE: (250) 342-9281 FAX: (250) 342-2934

4 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

Brendan Donahue Investment Advisor Phone: 342-2112

GIC Rates Cashable 90 days 1 year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year

as of Jan. 16th 3.40% 3.40% 3.82% 3.95% 4.00% 4.05% 4.10%

Don’t let the Banks roll your GIC’s Transfer to us for free. $100,000 Insured per GIC. Rates subject to change without notice.

Subject to availability.

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING LOTS FOR SALE!

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SWIMMING CHECK OUT OUR NEW PROGRAMS!

Adult Lane Swim: Tuesdays & Thursdays: 10:30-12:00 Moms & Tots: Monday 9:30-10:00 Thursday 9:30-10:00 Fins I 5 yrs. and older should be able to swim 1⁄2 length Monday & Thursday (do 1 or both!) 3:45-4:30 Fins II Completed Fins I or equivalent Monday & Thursday 4:30-5:15 (choose 1 or 2 classes) Tuesdays 5:15-6:00 (choose 1-2 classes) Fins III Competitive Inquiries welcome Fins IV Weekly adult swimmers Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays 3:45-6:30 Mondays until 7:00 Private/Semi-private Available upon request for all ages Stay tuned for our upcoming improvement & weekend clinics!

REGISTRATION

Jan. 23, 24 and 26

Radium Hot Springs Pools 4:00-6:00

Jan. 25 (Wednesday) Invermere IGA 3:15-6:00

Our new Head Coach Stephanie Hannos will be available to answer any questions.

January 20, 2006

Snowmobiler might lose fingers on right hand

By Adrian Bergles Pioneer Staff A snowmobiler who crashed into the boardwalk at James Chabot Provincial Park last month is still recovering at Foothills Hospital in Calgary after undergoing three surgeries on his broken left leg.

Marc LaFramboise, who was riding his snowmobile across the lake in the darkness in the early morning of December 18th, broke his leg in nine places, fractured his left hip and suffered severe hypothermia after he spent the night outside following his crash.

“All I can remember is dragging myself up to my sled and seeing if I could get back on it to go and get some help,” he told The Pioneer.

Because of the damage done to Marc’s right hand by the intense cold, two of his fingers may have to be removed. “It’s a waiting game right now,” he said from Foothills Hospital in Calgary this week.

The temperature fell to -14 degrees Celsius the morning of Marc’s accident.

Marc, 29, a construction worker, lay in the snow for several hours until he was finally found by passerby Kemp Hastewell around 9 a.m.

“I believe I was passed out,” said Marc, who said he remembers nothing leading up to the accident.

Kemp said he was shocked when he found Marc as he lay in the snow.

A former search and rescue volunteer in Prince George, the 58-year-old man was returning to his 12th Avenue home in Invermere from the A&W restaurant in Athalmer via the Dragonfly Boardwalk at James Chabot Park when he came across the wreck.

Initially Kemp didn’t see anything but broken boards and pieces of the wreckage, but then he spotted a helmet lying about ten feet away from the demolished snowmobile. “I thought somebody had vandalized the boardwalk,” he said. “It didn’t make sense.”

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Then he spotted someone lying on the ground and waving his arm.

Kemp said it was obvious Marc was suffering from a broken leg.

“They’re not supposed to bend at 90 degrees like that,” he said.

Kemp returned to the A&W and called Kemp Hastewell found 911 before he went to the injured man. the parking lot at James Chabot Park to wait for the paramedics. About five minutes later an ambulance arrived and Kemp showed the emergency workers to the scene. He then climbed up to the Laurier Street railway overpass and watched as the ambulance crew took Marc away.

From the hospital in Calgary, Marc expressed his gratitude to Kemp. “A big thanks to him,” said Marc.

“If it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I’d be alive.”

With his parents by his bedside, Marc has begun physiotherapy in Calgary. When he is released from hospital he will return with his parents to his hometown of Welland, Ontario.

“There’s just more options for physio,” he said.

When Mr. LaFramboise does get back on his feet, he may be a bit poorer.

District of Invermere staff don’t yet have an estimate on how much repairs to the boardwalk will cost, but it is likely Mr. LaFramboise will be held responsible. If repairs are less than the district’s $2,500 insurance deductible, they will be paid for from the municipal parks fund.

“It is likely we will try to recoup that money,” said director of municipal works Brian Nickurak. If repairs are over $2,500, the district’s insurance will pay.

Police said no charges will be laid in the accident.

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The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 5

January 20, 2006

LETTERS

‘Beware of Trojan Horse’ Dear Editor: In response to Councillor Gerry Taft’s letter: I rest my case! Your comment about using your gavel to “keep them in order” speaks volumes. The people who attended the meeting were not some unruly rabble you needed to “gavel” into silence. They were interested, intelligent, reasonable citizens and taxpayers who asked insightful questions and offered thoughtful suggestions.

The only time the meeting was out-of-hand was when the developer’s spokesperson offered to reduce the number of marina slips so that they would not be increasing motorized water traffic. We laughed! Even two slips will increase traffic on the lake.

I agree that any property owner has a right to apply for an Official Community Plan amendment or bylaw variance. I agree that some developers do a poor job of communicating. I disagree that the district has a responsibility to “help guide them” in any way. That is the job of private consultants paid for by the developer. District staff should not be acting as consultants for the proponent to find ways that the district would be willing to “push the envelope” when it comes to height and density issues. Quite simply, the developer should propose and district staff should review and comment. Anything more is a conflict of interest. The committee and staff should not be pre-negotiating the terms of the amendment.

We further disagree on the qualifications of members of the general public to make “technical comments.” I think you underestimate the collective intelligence of your constituents.

The only reason that we are unable to make reasoned decisions is because you, your fellow members of council and district staff, do not provide us with the information we need. Collectively, the citizens of Invermere are an intelligent lot. Please do not degrade us by telling us we are not qualified.

After nearly two weeks of contemplating the information gleaned from the planning committee meeting, I am more concerned now than before. I am concerned that committee members, together with district staff, seem to wish to narrow the examination to the proposed OCP amendment and to limit, or avoid, public discussion of the greater impact.

In order to make the proposal more palatable, members seem to want to defer the more important considerations to the future. If this proposal slides through, they will have full authorization to issue permits and keep the public from a discussion of the major issues. I suggest that this process is clearly designed to favour the developer and restrict public input.

The proposed amendment to the OCP is a Trojan Horse. It appears simple and unassuming on the outside, but may result in unwelcome consequences.

Remember, the proposed amendment simply requests variances to zoning, height and density. It bears no relationship to what will be built. Once the changes are approved, the developer can modify the proposal at any time prior to the issuance of building permits, so long as he complies with the “new” OCP. To approve these amendments, without binding contractual agreements, would be irresponsible. Do we want to set this precedent without these agreements and without full knowledge of the total cost?

The committee and staff seem quite prepared to do that on our behalf.

In his submission to the planning committee, the Director of Public Works addressed the issues of water supply, sewage treatment and traffic. He noted that the proposed amendment did not address the needs for additional downstream sewage treatment nor the obvious need for additional road access to the downtown core.

He stated that there “is no shortage of water” but said that it would require additional financial resources to bring it on stream. There seems to be a reluctance to include these issues, and costs, in the process of considering the proposed bylaw. There seems also to be a reluctance to consider the other impacts of such a massive development.

It is my firm belief that council, the planning committee, district staff and the developer need to immediately start a series of information meetings whereby all of these issues can be discussed with the public.

To bring this proposal to first reading without a firm costing of associated infrastructure needs would be irresponsible on the part of council. The added cost of downstream sewage treatment, water supply and new road systems is just the tip of the iceberg.

It is also time for the developer to show us exactly what the project will look like. Where are the final plans, what amenities will be included and when?

Why not build the amenities first, then the rest? The boardwalk will make the Hotel/Convention Center more attractive; if the developer cannot build the amenities first, what financial guarantees will he provide to the district to be sure they are built? What time constraints will be placed upon completing the development? What sort of a performance bond will council require? Now is the time to ensure that we do not end up with one more unfinished development in town.

Micheal Meehan, Invermere

‘Public qualified to comment, too’ Dear Editor: It is amusing or distressing to discover that Invermere is blessed with a councillor who does not yet comprehend that “general public” can comment on any matter, be it technical or not.

The word “professional” is a somewhat loose term in this context. It can be in one sense refer to a person who is mainly engaged in a paid activity.

More so, it is used to decribe someone in a branch of advanced learning - hence we have a Professional

Engineer, Medical Doctor, etc. To which sort of professional does the councillor rely on? If the latter, more power to him.

It may come as a shock to councillor Taft that in this valley there many professionals very well qualified to understand, and there are many who were serving on the Invermere council before he was born.

John Spellman, Invermere

Out & About The Pioneer is pleased to offer this free weekly feature for coming events around the valley.

Please call 341-6299 or Email upioneer@telus.net with your events.

Toby Theatre • Jan. 18/19/20/21 - Walk the Line • Jan. 25/26/27/28 - Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

January 20/21/22 • Curling on the Lake Bonspiel. Kinsmen Beach and Joe Peters Curling Club.

January 21 • Used furniture and appliances for sale January 21, 2005 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the garage behind the yellow house next door to the Alliance Church on Tenth Avenue in Invermere.

• Lions and Kinsmen host Smart Growth seminar.

DTSS - 7 pm. Open to the public, FREE. • Fairmont Volunteer Fire Protection Society, AGM - 11 am, Open House 12 - 2 pm. Fairmont Fire Hall. rmere.

January 25

• Chamber of Commerce AGM, discussion of PST, Invermere Inn, noon, call 342-2844 for info. rmere.

January 27 • Deadline for nominations for Rotary Club’s citizen of the Year. Mail letter to Box 877, Invermere, V0A 1K0. For info contact any Rotary member. e.

January 28 • 6 p.m. Windermere District Rod and Gun Club, Chilli Night, antlers scored, Invermere Legion.

• Windermere Valley Saddle Club Social Saturday, January 28th at 5:30 pm at Edgewater Community Hall. $5 each or $10 for a family. Bring pot luck and a “pirate” gift. Everyone welcome.

January 29 • Sunday, Jan. 29 - 2 pm, Symphonie of the Kootenays performing Mozart’s Symphony #39 and his Requiem at Christ Church Trinity. Tickets from Dave’s Book Bar, Stober’s and Pynelogs.

OTHER • Sundays, 5:45-6:45 pm, public skating for all ages.

• Lake Windermere Rod and Gun Club - archery every Wednesday at 7pm, Invermere Community Hall.

• Thursdays, 7:00 pm, Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Education Centre at Panorama. Interpretive program, hot chocolate, small bonfire. 1-877-377-WOLF. • Fridays, 11am-noon, adult skating at the arena.

• Senior Men’s Hockey League (55 and over), Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:15am to 10:45am.

• Fridays noon-1 pm, parent/tot skating at the arena.

• Climbing Wall, J.A. Laird Elementary School gym.

Fridays, 3-6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 5-8 pm, $5 drop-in fee. Call 342-6232 for info.

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SEE YOU IN THE SPRING!

6 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

PERSPECTIVE

Federal politicians sprint to the finish

By Bob Ede Pioneer Staff With only a few days left before the federal election, the leaders and their respective parties show no sign of winding down or slowing the rhetoric to ease us gently out of this winter election campaign. It’s a sprint to the finish with all the leaders declaring victory or at least a level of victory. Here is a tongue-in-cheek look at our valiant leaders and some of the personality changes they have experienced since the start of the election.

Jack Layton has dogsledded his way into our hearts and what he hopes will be a position of hanging onto the balance of power. Out of all the leaders he is the most at ease in front of the camera, basking in the limelight.

His Clark Gable moustache shapes his words of compassion while he warns all within earshot that a vote for any other party is a vote for evil and corruption. The truth is he can afford to promise increased health care and education spending, bigger pensions starting with the politicians, of course - and lower taxes for all except the largest businesses. He can be as warm and fuzzy as he can dream of; he ain’t going to have to back it up.

Stephen Harper, meanwhile, continues his exercise of perpetrating the demeanor of Prime Minister in waiting. The same image consultants that tried valiantly but failed with Preston Manning look like they may have a

winner with Mr. Harper. It is possible that if he becomes Prime Minister, he will go one step further and hire Stacey and Clinton from What Not to Wear and really turn up the heat - first Canada and then the World. Whether he is throwing ill-timed punches at a heavy bag or sparring with his political foes he is having an increasingly hard time keeping the smile from creeping onto the corners of his mouth. Rising IpsosReid polls have a way of doing that to politicians.

While Harper looks like the cat who swallowed the canary, Paul Martin’s face has aged a decade in the last couple of months. And who can blame him? It’s a tragedy of Shakespearian proportions without the swordplay, or the comedy, for that matter. He waited patiently for years for the old boss to step down, and was finally forced to nudge him towards retirement. What does his predecessor do but leave a mess that could have brought down Rome?

Paul Martin has been an apologist ever since. If there is one thing he should have learned from John Chretien, it was his two-part defence strategy - never admit you’re wrong and never, never say sorry. Hey, it worked for him for ten years.

Regardless of your political leaning, vote on Monday, and take heart that you do not have to cast a vote for any of the above-mentioned leaders.

Besides, there is always Green. But remember what another great leader used to say: “It’s not easy being green!”

Historical Lens Jack Taynton and his wife Lydia are pictured here with their son Sinclair and the family dog. Jack came to the valley from England in 1885. He panned gold in Toby Creek and operated a pack train with his brother Billy before starting his own ranch. In 1902 the Tayntons moved to Invermere (then called Canterbury) and built their home near what is now Kinsmen Beach. Jack started a brick and lime yard there. The small bay in front of Kinsmen Beach is named Taynton Bay after him.

Photo courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

‘Ban smoking in all public places’ Dear Editor: It’s National Non-Smoking Week (January 15-21) and the perfect time to bring attention to tobacco control in British Columbia. Presently, seven provinces (New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland/Labrador) and two territories (Northwest Territories and Nunavut Territory) have adopted 100 percent smoke-free legislation with no allowances for smoking rooms.

British Columbia, which was once Canada’s leader in

tobacco control, has fallen far behind.

Tobacco use is responsible for 30 percent of all cancer deaths and more than 85 percent of lung cancers. Second-hand smoke is linked to the deaths of at least 1,100 Canadians each year.

Strong non-smoking legislation is an effective way to protect people from the dangerous effects of secondhand smoke. It also reduces smoking rates by helping smokers quit or smoke less.

Through the cost-recovery lawsuit, the B.C. government has shown leadership and determination in

holding the tobacco industry accountable for hiding the truth about the harm of using tobacco products.

The Canadian Cancer Society, B.C. and Yukon Division, urges the B.C. government to demonstrate similar resolve in fully protecting all British Columbians from second-hand smoke by enacting smoke-free legislation in 100 percent of public places, with no allowances for designated smoking rooms.

Dave Chisholm and Patti Moore Canadian Cancer Society

The Upper Columbia

P IONEER is independently owned and operated and is published weekly by Elinor Florence.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone (250) 341-6299 Toll Free 1-877-341-6299 Fax (250) 341-6229 Email: upioneer@telus.net www.uppercolumbiapioneer.com The material, written or artistic may not be reprinted or electronically reproduced in any way without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions and statements in articles, columns and advertising are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff of The Upper Columbia Pioneer. It is agreed by any display advertiser requesting space that the newspapers responsibility, if any, for errors or omissions of any kind is limited to the amount paid for by the advertiser for that portion of the space as occupied by the incorrect item and there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for the advertisement.

Elinor Florence Publisher

Bob Ede Creative Director

Lisa Ede Creative Director

Adrian Bergles

Dave Sutherland

Bob Friesen

Reporter

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Shannon Cross Office Manager

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 7

January 20, 2006

LETTERS

“Where are the federal candidates?’

Dear Editor:

I am frightened by the way that this federal election is shaping up. Not the fact that the leaders of the major parties are resorting to mudslinging and thinly veiled slanderous attacks at opposing parties and their leaders. In fact, I take an almost childlike delight in guessing which promises loosely and hastily made will be broken, forgotten, or even (gasp!) fulfilled. I am not even frightened by the rising levels of apathy and disillusionment in this country that seem to loom larger at every election, especially in the young demographics (which I am a member of ). OK, I lied - that scares me a little, but is (mostly) beside the point.

But what I find really frightening is the fact that - brace yourself - there will be no candidates forum held in Invermere this election . . . pause for gasps of shock and surprise.

OK, maybe it is a little late for me to be noticing this, let alone complaining about it, but I am really disappointed. The closest forum was held in Cranbrook, and there will not be one held in Invermere this election. I have attempted to contact the Rotary Club regarding this but have not heard from them at the time that this letter was completed.

I have known from the beginning that I am voting

‘Gun law in Australia didn’t work’ Dear Editor: Here’s a thought from Ed Chenel, a police officer in Australia. It has now been 12 months since gun owners in Australia were forced by a new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by their own government, a program costing Australian taxpayers more than $500 million.

The first year results are now in: Australia-wide, homicides are up 3.2 percent, assault are up 8.6 percent, and armed robberies are up 44 percent.

While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically in the past 12 months since the criminals are now guaranteed that their prey is unarmed. There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the elderly.

The Australian experience proves it. Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and yes, gun-control laws affect only the law-abiding citizens.

Dave Lewis, Invermere

The Pioneer welcomes your Letters to the Editor. Please drop them off at our office located just down the street from Peppi’s Pizzeria, mail them to Box 868 in Invermere, or Email them to upioneer@telus.net.

Please remember the shorter the letter, the higher the number of readers!

for the Green Party. I do, however, have a slightly uncomfortable feeling that I am voting ‘blind.’ I have not met Clements Verhoeven, nor have I heard him speak.

I do believe that Green is the party that I would most like to support; however, it is important to attend a forum that will help confirm my belief that a Green vote is the right vote for me.

This same lack of intimacy with the candidates is a particular problem for anyone planning to vote Liberal, as Jhim Burwell is also a brand new candidate.

We know Jim Abbott, and Brent Bush, but it is nice to remind oneself about candidates that one has supported (or opposed) in previous elections.

It is much easier to judge individuals in person, when they are responding to questions that your voting peers have put to them. Candidate forums allow you to see aspects of each candidate that you simply cannot divine from carefully calculated letters, biographies or pamphlets. The good, the bad, the scary and the misinformed are laid out unmercifully in front of you, to judge and condemn to whatever fate, you, the voter, deem appropriate.

This may sound a little melodramatic, but essentially it is true. When you vote, you are not voting for a party leader, you are voting for an individual who will represent you in Ottawa to whichever of those

leaders happens to win.

Although they will (usually) follow their party line, there is no guarantee of this. If you haven’t met these people and heard them speak about issues that are important to you, how can you trust them enough to give them your vote?

That said - look on the websites, inform yourself, then VOTE!!! If nothing else, you will have no right to complain about the government if you don’t. If you can’t, in good conscience, vote for a major party (and really, who could blame you?), vote for a minor one, or even go to the poll and register an official vote of no confidence. No ballot is a ‘wasted’ vote.

Because we, the residents of Invermere, do not have the resource of a candidate forum this year, it is important that we take it upon ourselves to glean what knowledge we can in order to vote well. Remember to consider the source of that forwarded e-mail from Vancouver, or that speech writer’s blog - the odds are pretty good that someone is trying to change your mind, or at least help you make it.

Ignorance may be bliss, but it is not the way to elect a government.

Deanna Berrington, Invermere

‘Let the locals decide Jumbo’ Dear Editor: Having given the decision re: Jumbo to the Regional District of East Kootenay, the provincial government should butt out and let democracy take its course.

The provincial government, via Bill Bennett, insults local intelligence by stating that judicious decisions about local issues cannot be made here.

Past Minister Abbot stated, prior to being elected of course, that the Jumbo decision would remain in local hands.

This entire issue could be called “The Jumbo Tea Party.” It is entirely about democracy now, and since when has Victoria ever legitimately been in tune with our local issues anyway?

Victoria Page, Windermere

‘Jumbo resort asset to the valley’ Dear Editor: I was fortunate enough to attend the Jumbo Glacier Resort public presentation on Jan 4, 2006. A huge amount of information was being absorbed by numerous residents of the Columbia Valley. It was great to see this participation and see this presentation.

Jumbo Wild, the negative group regarding JGR, was good enough to hire a bus to bring concerned citizens from Cranbrook and Kimberley to view this excellent presentation.

One of the participants was Mr. Dave Quinn, I understand. He did not introduce himself to me; however, another person recognized him and explained to me who I was speaking with at the time.

While I was speaking with someone else about the tertiary sewage system proposed for JGR, a lovely topic would you not say, Mr. Quinn interjected himself into the conversation with some interesting observations.

I must thank him for pushing me to expand my knowledge of this excellent system even further than previously absorbed.

Mr. Quinn criticized the tertiary systems in general in that he stated that Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorous (P) are not removed from the downstream product leaving tertiary systems. After doing some further

research as he suggested, I found that in fact nitrogen and phosphorous are removed from the waste water that would be leaving the Jumbo Resort and this tertiary system. This extremely clean water is then injected back into the ground through the use of ground sinks.

Therefore, I do want to thank Mr. Quinn publicly for his excellent suggestion. I also want to express my appreciation to both Mr. Quinn and to Jumbo Wild for helping to make this resort proposal, one of the most environmentally exceptional resorts in all of North America. Your input has helped many residents of the valley understand just how good this project really is and what an asset this will be for our valley.

Thank you, Mr. Quinn, and thank you, Jumbo Wild.

Back to you, Mr. Quinn, here is the web address for you to research this excellent process: http://www. ecofluid.com/ecofl/index.html.

This is truly is an impressive system for our valley.

The cities of Cranbrook, Nelson, Kimberley, Invermere and Kaslo as well as any mountain community might do well to consider this process.

David R. Pacey Radium Hot Springs

8 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

RCMP Report • January 11: An Invermere man was arrested two days after being released on bail from jail. The man was at large on probation with a no contact condition. He was observed writing on the dirt of the person’s vehicle while it was parked in downtown Invermere. The man appeared in Provincial Court on Thursday where he was remanded in custody and may lose his cash bail.

• January 11: Police received report of a theft from a vehicle in the Fairmont area. Stolen were a wallet, credit cards and driver’s license, a backpack, a small set of binoculars, and possibly a couple of CDs. The vehicle was not locked.

• January 9: Police received report of a downed hydro pole. Investigation found the exhaust stacks from a large truck had caught the lines.

• January 7: RCMP were called to possible impaired driver attempting to drive away from a local pub. The vehicle was located nearby making wide turns and driving on the wrong side of the road. The suspect vehicle was pulled over and the driver showed obvious signs of impairment. He was detained and brought back to the detachment where he provided two breath samples of 240 mg percent.

The driver was issued with a 24-hour suspension and a 90-day Adminis-

trative Driving Prohibition. Charges have been recommended for impaired operation of a motor vehicle and operating with alcohol level over 80 mg percent. Further investigation found the man to be at large with a warrant for his arrest from Vancouver Island.

The man was released on a court date for those charges.

• January 7: Police were at the Invermere Esso about 12:36 a.m. when they heard a vehicle slam into pole at The Petro-Can. Police found the male driver displaying several signs of impairment. The man was detained, and escorted to provide breath samples of 230 mg percent.

• January 1: A 29-year-old Invermere woman’s driving privileges were suspended for 24 hours after she was stopped in a police roadcheck in Invermere. The woman failed a roadside breath test which lead to the suspension and her vehicle being impounded for 24 hours.

• December 30: A 43-year-old Invermere man found his driving privileges suspended for 24 hours after being stopped in a police roadcheck. Police demanded a roadside breath sample which resulted in a breath sample in excess of the Motor Vehicle Act standard. The driver was also under medication at the time of driving.

A Day in Court The following people were convicted and sentenced in adult court held in Invermere on January 17. Presiding was circuit judge Ron Webb of Cranbrook.

• Aaron D. Bradshaw pled guilty to operating a vehicle with over 80 milligrams of alcohol.

The court heard that Mr. Bradshaw was stopped at a road check and gave two breath samples, reading .200 and .180 respectively.

The court heard Mr. Bradshaw had four previous alcohol-related convictions. He was sentenced to 45 days intermittent jail time, probation until April 30, 2006 and a three-year driving prohibition.

• Robert P. Guenther pled guilty to operating a vehicle with over 80 milligrams of alcohol.

The court heard that on September 24, 2005 Mr. Guenther was pulled over by RCMP and provided two breath samples, both .130. Mr. Guenther was

sentenced to a one-year driving prohibition and a $600 fine.

• Kevin R. Moore pled guilty to operating a vehicle with over 80 milligrams of alcohol.

The court heard that Mr. Moore was stopped at a road check and gave two breath samples, both .110. Mr. Moore was sentenced to a one-year driving prohibition and a $600 fine.

• A Canal Flats woman pled guilty to one count of assault.

The court heard on May 20, 2004 RCMP responded to a domestic complaint. The court heard investigation revealed the woman spit at and threw gravel in the face of one of two men, aged 20 and 19, who had arrived to pick up her 14-year-old daughter. The court heard that the gravel had broken the tooth of one of the men.

The court heard that she had one previous conviction for assault.

She was sentenced to a $75 fine.

Taking his best shot Budding archers and would-be Robin Hoods are welcome to test their skills at the Invermere Community Hall every Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. Here Leland Davidson of Invermere steadies his arm before he lets the arrow fly.

The Rotary Club of Invermere’s

Christmas Tree Committee would like to acknowledge the generous contribution of Walter Verge, Steven Verge & Ian Nittel for their donation of the trees & Randy Brash & his staff at IGA for the space and assistance with our customers & most especially the people who purchased a tree.

Proceeds from the tree sales will go to community support programs, including student exchanges, scholarships, bursaries and student vocational information programs.

NOMINATIONS WANTED for

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Nominations are now open for the Invermere Rotary Club’s annual Citizen of the Year Award.

Anyone who wants to nominate a person they feel has made a significant contribution to the community is asked to write a letter outlining their reasons. All nominations are to be mailed to the Rotary Club of Invermere, Box 877, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0.

Anyone can be nominated. Contributions to the community can mean many things. It does not have to mean someone in the public eye. Many contributions to the community are accomplished in quiet unassuming ways.

Take the time....write a letter of nomination. It’s an honour just to be nominated.

Deadline for nominations is Friday January 27, 2006.

More information concerning the Citizen of the Year Award can be obtained from any Rotary member.

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 9

January 20, 2006

The

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D A O R to

GOLD

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Friendship leads to Olympic Games ing just short themselves of qualifying for the Olympics in 1997.

Thanks to a friendship Christine returned to Calmade as a junior player in gary and to curling in the fall Calgary nearly ten years ago, of 2002. She remained a good Invermere’s Christine Keshen friend of Amy’s - now an artiis on the precipice of Olymcling law student at Field Law pic glory. of Calgary, one of the sponsors Christine met Amy Nixof Team Kleibrink - and when on, 28, immediately after she a spot playing lead came availmoved to the big city in 1996 able in September 2004, Amy to pursue her education in suggested her former junior international commerce. The teammate. small town girl, who didn’t The team enjoyed immediknow anyone in Calgary, was ate success. Last March, with living in a condo owned by Christine playing lead, the her parents, Jack and Carol team won the Strauss Canada Amy Nixon, second from left, met Christine Keshen, second from right, on her first day in Calgary.

Keshen of Invermere.

Cup in Kamloops.

Other team members are Shannon Kleibrink, left; Glenys Bakker, centre; and Sandra Jenkins, right.

Wondering how to make The win assured Christine’s new friends, she hit upon the place on the team. “When we timately losing the final of the 1998 Alberta women’s perfect solution - the curling rink. won the Canada Cup, I really felt like I’d earned my junior championship.

“I went to the rink my first day there,” Christine That loss demoralized Christine. For three years spot on the team,” said Christine. “A lot of people said recalled. she lived abroad and left curling behind. “The junior ‘Who’s this girl?’ But that win was a huge thing for Christine let people at the Calgary Curling Club loss devastated me,” said Christine. “It really kind of me.” know that she wanted to play with other competitive pounded me down.”

With her role on the team clinched, Christine has junior women curlers and met current Team Kleibrink While Christine was away from the game, Amy let her personality come out. member Amy Nixon. “I met Amy the first day there,” got a chance to play with skip Shannon Kleibrink and “I’m the young one on the team,” she says. “If says Christine. second Glenys Bakker. It was a big jump. The more someone in the media needs a wild quote, they’ll call The young women hit it off. They curled together experienced curlers had been together for years, fall- me.” for three years on a team skipped by Ms. Nixon, ulBy Adrian Bergles Pioneer Staff

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10 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

Fresh powder thrills skiers

Travis Cuthbert takes his jump from a snowy peak overlooking Taynton Bowl at Panorama.

Photo by Kirk Pitaoulis

By Adrian Bergles Pioneer Staff

orama since ‘97-’98,” said Jeremy Donald, co-owner of Syndicate Boardshop in Invermere.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Panorama had reWeeks of fresh snowfall have covered the slopes ceived 54 centimetres of snow in seven days. at Panorama Mountain Village in snow - the likes of “It’s phenomenal . . . we’re so stoked,” said Aidan which haven’t been seen in years.

Hinschberger, a snowboard tuner at Columbia Cycle.

“This is probably the best snow we’ve had at Pan“It’s all everyone is talking about.”

Mr. Donald said the Email: klein@nucleus.com snow has increased sales www.tepapanui.com at his shop.

“Customers have been happy and that’s

Tel. 342-0707

translated into sales,” he said. “When there’s snow, people buy new gear.”

“We’re just going to cross our fingers and hope it keeps coming,” said Mr. Hinschberger.

Joanne Bragg is coach of the ski and snowboard team at David Thompson Secondary School in Invermere.

“The kids are raring to go,” she said. “All the snow makes training all that much easier.”

Joanne’s husband Drew Bragg, a ski instructor at Panorama, said the snow was welcomed with open arms. “Everyone was waiting for snow,” he said.

He said this snowfall has come early and there is still a lot of time for more snow to fall.

“We should have good snowfall through January and into February,” he said optimistically.

Local skiers are especially happy because the hill is quiet this time of year after the holiday skiers have returned home, meaning shorter lineups at the lifts.

Because of all the new snow, Tania Halik, an avalanche forecaster at Panorama, advises skiers and snowboarders to stay within the mountain’s boundaries.

“It’s pretty scary out of bounds,”

she says.

Mrs. Halik advises those who insist on going into the back country to take precautions. “They should take a beacon, shovel, a probe and some knowledge,” she said.

Mrs. Halik says skiers and snowboarders should stay off very steep terrain, limiting runs to those under 35 degrees. “If someone ventures on an open steep slope, they have a death wish,” she said.

Over the past two weeks avalanches have claimed lives in Fernie and Golden.

For more information on avalanche conditions go to www.avalanche.ca.

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Roofs and bridges are laden with snow this week at Panorama Mountain Village.

Photo by Ryan Stimming

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 11

January 20, 2006

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The Columbia Valley

P IONEER

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12 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

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By Harold Hazelaar Foreign Correspondent

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The Old Zone

410 Borden St., Invermere • 342-6226

ball, volleyball or even boogie boarding, you will wear off some of the Cerveza, leads again to another penalty!

Freeze the puck: Yes, cold, cold Cerveza tastes much better however, it still results in a penalty!

In my opinion!!

Editor’s Note: Harold is covering Oldtimers’ Hockey from the beach in Venezuela. He reports that his wife Donna is recovering nicely from emergency gall bladder surgery.

In my opinion, there are six ways to stop play in a hockey game: score a goal, take a penalty, go offside, ice the puck, deflect or shoot the puck over the glass, or a player or goalie freezes the puck. Surprisingly enough, there are also six similar situations on the beach!

Score a goal: Cracking open a can of ice cold Cerveza at 10 a.m. !

A Penalty: Not being physically able to handle a Cerveza before 6 p.m. because of too many yesterday!

Offside: Being far too anxious to get to the beach before breakfast, causes a penalty the next day after scoring a goal!

Icing: Allowing your wife to convince you that shopping for a day will be a good idea, thus relieving the pressure of requiring a Cerveza at 10 a.m. and the taking of yet again another penalty!

Deflections: Thinking that if you engage in exercise like beach racquet-

Results from Jan 12th: Lake Auto Mustangs tied Warwick Wolves, Petro-Canada Killer Tomatoes over Huckleberry Hawks, Valley Vision Vultures over Inside Edge Black Smoke and Hi-Heat Batters over Dale Christian Mudders.

Schedule for Jan 26: 6:45pm Dale Christian Mudders vs Warwick Wolves 8:00pm Inside Edge Black Smoke vs Huckleberry Hawks 9:15pm Hi-Heat Batters vs PetroCanada Killer Tomatoes 10:30pm Valley Vision Vultures vs Lake Auto Mustangs

The Old Zone is brought to you by:

PLAYER PROFILE Name: Kerry Colonna Nickname: Speed Hometown: Golden Years in league: 5 Favorite Memory: Roadtrip with Byron Irons and John LeClair Hobbies: All sports and building houses

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The Pioneer can be viewed online at

www.uppercolumbiapioneer.com

EYES ON THE PRIZE - RCMP Constable Darin Underhill throws a rock at the B.C. Police Curling Zone Playdowns held last weekend at the Invermere Curling Club.

Darin’s team won the bonspiel and is off to Penticton for curling provincials.

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 13

January 20, 2006

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS VOLUNTEERS WANTED The Invermere Public Library is looking for more volunteers.

Shelf readers are needed weekdays for two hours each. Qualifications: able to accurately arrange items in alphabetical and numerical order; able to bend, stoop, reach, stretch and lift; attention to detail; able to work independently.

PUBLIC SERVICE ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. If alcohol is causing problems in your life, call 342-2424 for info. All meetings at 8pm: Monday; Invermere Group, Christ Church Trinity, Wednesday; Windermere Group, Valley Christian Assembly Church, Friday; Radium Group, Radium Catholic Church, Saturday; Invermere First Step, Family Resource Centre, 625 4th Street; Sunday; Columbia Lake Band Hall, off Highway 93/95 south of Windermere. All meetings are open.

ALCOHOLISM SHATTERS LIVES. To help the alcoholic, you must help yourself first. Al Anon meets 10am Tuesdays at the Catholic Church, 1210 - 9th Street, Invermere. For info call Carol, 347-9841.

NOTICES Windermere Valley Saddle Club Social Saturday, January 28th at 5:30 pm at Edgewater Community Hall. Club provides turkey, buns and potatoes. $5 each or $10 for a family. Bring pot luck and a “pirate” gift (recycle from tack room, a re-gift, or a purchase under $10). Feel free to bring trophies, pictures, displays or items for sale. Everyone welcome.

Kootenay Region Métis Association is calling for nominations for the position of North Local President. Contact Mike Paradis at (250) 342-6359 or par342@telus. net. Election date is January 28, 2006.

GARAGE SALE Neighbourlink Columbia Valley: good used furniture and appliances at reasonable prices, 320-10th Avenue, Invermere, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. January 21.

Profit deposited to subsidized

housing fund. Contact Dorothy, 342-3826.

TIME SHARE RENTAL Spring Break in Mexico - Timeshare rental - Grand Mayan.

Grand Master suite, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, dining, living room. March 18 to 25 at Nuevo Vallarta, or March 25 to April 1 at Mayan Riviera. Call 342-6761 or contact: ez_let@shaw.ca.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Two weeks available at Bahia del Sol Beach Resort in Nuero Vallarta (14 miles from P.V. airport) March 25-April 8 (accommodation only). RCI timeshare.

Beautiful oceanfront, 1200-foot condo, LR, bedroom, kitchen, bath. Sleeps 4. Restaurant, pool. $500/week. 342-7558.

Holiday accommodation almost anywhere single or family, one or two weeks. Must use before March 24/06. Very affordable, 342-6588 leave message.

SUITES FOR RENT New 2 bdrm walk-out basement suite for 2, 10 minutes to Panorama, $750/mth + DD, utilities included. W/D, N/S, N/P, furnished possible. 342-2100.

FOR RENT STEIN APARTMENTS - residential and commercial. 342- 6912.

baths, F/S, D/W, laundry hookup, attached garage, small yard, pet okay with pet deposit, $950/mth plus utilities and damage deposit, #112 - 626 9th Avenue. Available January 1st. 403-283-1724.

3 bdrm lakefront home, Indian Beach Estates. Furnished, 2 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, available for 2006, $1400/mth. 403-240-0167 or dougjoan@telus.net.

New house behind IGA, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, fridge, stove, dishwasher, w/d hookup, gas fireplace, single garage, $1200/ month plus utilities, $600 damage deposit, one-year lease, available March 1. Call 3427086.

ROOM FOR RENT Room for rent. Must be quiet and like kids. Please call 688-0056.

MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE Clean 14x70 manufactured home, F/S, W/D, Windermere, close to school, $43,000 OBO. 342-9646.

Meat Grinder, No. 12 head, 3/4 horsepower, 110 volts, 400 lbs/ hour, dipped tin, permanently lubricated steel gears, like new, $1100, comes with tubs, hooks, paper holder, 342-5856.

Konica Minolta Dimage A200 digital camera, comes with telephoto and wide-angle lens, 1 GB card, 512 mb card, remote, AV cable, charge and Lowe pro case, like new, $1100, 342-5856.

Time of Sale: 5 p.m. 1992 Black Jeep Cherokee 4X4, 2 dr. Vin. 1J4FJ87S4NL172772. Name of debtor: Club Towing. Amount of Debt: $2,154.98. 2002 Brown Pontiac Grand Prix, 4 dr. Vin. 1G2WK52J12F221652. Name of Debtor: Club Towing. Amount of Debt: $2,102.55.

CHEERS & JEERS CHEERS to Curling on the Lake volunteers.

Mountain Heights ~ 8 units ~

CopperSide ~ luxury condos ~

342-2536 local phone

866-342-2536 toll free

www.lakeviewmeadows.net relax@lakeviewmeadows.net

Winchester model 70 .308 lightweight. Excellent shape, accurate, comes with 4 x 24 IOR Valdada optics with bullet drop compensator, $500 for rifle, $1100 for both, 342-5856.

Ikea 2 and 6 drawer cabinets $75 set. TV stand $35. Big cactus plant $50. Stained glass lamp $250. Lots more. 342-7077.

LEGAL NOTICE To be sold by Club Towing, 428-4th Avenue, Athalmer.

Date of Sale: February 3, 2006.

AFFORDABLE TOWNHOMES

MISC. FOR SALE Custom cut rough lumber, dry fir beams, fence boards, etc. Firewood - fir, birch or pine - split or unsplit. Top quality hay, grass/alfalfa mix, round or square bales.

346-3247.

PHASE II NOW PRE-SELLING 2 bedroom 1494 sq. ft. including garage

from $182,000 + GST

CONDO FOR RENT

Free range eggs now available at Grant’s Foods on 8th Avenue.

Open until 7pm. 342-7308.

*PHASE I (51 HOMES) SOLD OUT!*

INVERMERE - Central location, 2bedroom condo, N/P, N/S, available Feb. 1, $875/month plus damage deposit. Call 341-6284 or cell 688-0083 evenings.

8-inch cedar bevelled siding, prestained, natural cedar, transparent Olympic 716, very nice product, $1.20/lineal foot, 342-8773.

Sales Centre - Open 12 - 6 Daily

Kona scab steel hardtail mountain bike frame, 19-inch, red powdercoat finish, good shape, $125. 341-6183.

Pedro Cebulka ~ 342-5724 ~

HOMES FOR RENT 3 bdrm townhouse in Invermere, one 4-piece bath, two 2-piece

at Crossroads of Invermere

pedro@blackforestvillage.com

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14 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

It’s a small world, say two doctors

By Sandra Kelly Special to The Pioneer

“Do I know you?”

That was the question Alison Shaw and Jodene Eldstrom were asking each other last November.

The women, both of whom attended David Thompson Secondary School in the late 1980s, came face to face at the convocation ceremony where each received a doctoral degree from the University of British Columbia.

Each graduate seemed familiar to the other, but neither knew why.

“We met while making our entrance to the ceremony,” says Ms. Shaw. “Jody looked very familiar to me, but we had to chat for a while before we figured out our connection.”

“I was surprised and pleased to see Alison again,” says Ms. Eldstrom. “I hadn’t known she was at UBC, and then to have her graduate on the same day . . . how unlikely, given the number of students from David Thompson who have pursued graduate degrees!”

Ms. Shaw hails from Spillamacheen, and Ms. Eldstrom comes from Windermere. They weren’t childhood friends, but they knew one another’s siblings and had many other mutual acquaintances.

Both women have since distinguished themselves academically.

In 1988 Ms. Eldstrom graduated with honors from David Thompson, and then went on to earn a B.Sc.

Former locals Jodene Eldstrom, left, and Alison Shaw, right, received their doctoral degrees from UBC on the same day. from UBC and an honors diploma in biotechnology from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.

She planned to pursue a master’s degree at UBC, but was talked into doing a Ph.D. in Physiology instead.

Still at UBC, she is now a post-doctoral fellow in the Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences. She works in the same lab where she conducted, and will continue, the research begun with her Ph.D.

Her career goal is to work as a research associate.

“Doing research will enable me to stay in Vancouver, and to have a life outside the lab. Besides, I just generally prefer research to teaching.”

Ms. Shaw attended DTSS from 1987 to 1991, but finished high school in Calgary. She later earned an undergraduate degree in Honors Environmental Studies from UBC. Her thesis (completed at the University of Cape Town in South Africa), examined the UN international climate science assessment.

She then went straight into the Ph.D. program at UBC. Her doctoral degree is in Resource Management: Environmental Studies.

“It’s an interesting program,” she says. “It attracts students from all over the world, so there’s a lot of exchange and learning. People are working to ensure that the environment is as important as the economy and politics. They are trying to make the world a better place.”

Ms. Shaw currently has three contract positions at UBC. As for the future, she is “very interested” in international development work, particularly in the field of reducing human and ecological vulnerability to climate change in developing countries.

Will the graduates stay in touch?

“I hope so,” says Ms. Eldstrom. “Perhaps one day Alison and I can team up to help graduates from DTSS navigate their way through UBC. It’s an exciting place to be, but it can be intimidating for a smalltown kid.”

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS taintraining.bc.ca Phone 3426011 or 1-888-737-5511. WE ARE RECRUITING FOR chefs, reservations, accountants, labourers, housekeepers, guest services agent, food & beverage.

CAREERS Looking for an exciting career in retail? NOW HIRING AT SAAN. Bring your resume to the Saan store in Invermere.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN TRAINING, B.C Licensed Employment Agency.

Need a job? Need employees? Apply on-line at www.rockymoun-

Show home host or hostess required for Timko Homes in CastleRock.

Weekend and holiday hours required. Call Lindsay at 341-1160.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 6 (ROCKY MOUNTAIN) School District No. 6 (Rocky Mountain), located in the beautiful Columbia Valley and serving approximately 3,500 students in 17 schools spread over 270 kilometers along the Rocky Mountains, has the following Excluded employment opportunities available (www.sd6.bc.ca):

#IE06-01 ABORIGINAL EDUCATION SUPPORT WORKER, Invermere Zone, temporary, part-time .4500 fte (8.75 hrs/wk at Edgewater Elementary School and 7 hrs/wk at Martin Morigeau Elementary School), effective as soon as possible until June 30, 2006. Effective as soon as possible until June 30, 2006. #GE06-02 – HOMESTAY COORDINATOR, Golden Zone, temporary, compensation based on rate per homestay student enrolled in International Education Program.

Effective as soon as possible until June 30, 2006.

Applications with full supporting documentation, including references should be forwarded to: Mr. Paul Carriere, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, School District No. 6 (Rocky Mountain), Box 70, Kimberley, BC, V1A 2Y5, (250) 427-2245 (phone); (250) 427-2044 (fax); HYPERLINK “mailto:cwilkins@sd6.bc.ca” cwilkins@sd6.bc.ca (e-mail), by Monday, January 23, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. Successful applicants will be subject to Criminal Records Review Process. We would like to thank all applicants, but only those short-listed will be contacted.

INVERMERE DRYCLEANERS seeks mature, responsible adult, full-time or part-time, 342-6610.

BAKER’S HELPER/CLEANER Year-round position assisting bakers in our busy production bakery and cleaning production area.

• Early morning start (6 – 7 am), 5 days per week, 5 – 8 hours per day.

• No experience necessary.

• Must be able to work as part of a team, take direction, & put in the effort necessary to complete the day’s task.

• Starting wage $10.00 per hour.

Submit your resume with cover letter to Peter at Quality Bakery.

722-14th St. Invermere, BC, or email qbakery@telus.net.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 6 (ROCKY MOUNTAIN)

INVERMERE ZONE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FINANCIAL AUDIT SERVICES School District No. 6 (Rocky Mountain) is requesting proposals for audit services for the current fiscal year ending June 30, 2006. The auditor must be a Chartered Accountant or Certified General Accountant. Interested parties should refer to the Request for Proposal document posted on the School District’s website at www.sd6.bc.ca.

manual, excellent gas mileage, 40,000 km, well kept and serviced, asking $10,000, (250) 342-3569.

H & R BLOCK requires a receptionist 2 to 3 days a week from Feb. 1 to April 30. Contact Elaine at 3423626.

SERVICES BOOKKEEPING SERVICES - Bookkeeping services, payroll, financial statements, GST/PST reporting. Blue Ox Business Services, 341-5421

STK TO6013A

2002 Dodge SLT Dually 4 x 4 Diesel, auto, loaded, local trade.

128,000 km. $36,950

Cranbrook Dodge 1-800-663-2268

TRADES Avion Construction Ltd., construction managers and general contractor for the Black Forest Village Townhome complex located at the crossroads in Invermere, BC, is currently seeking to hear from all local trades interested in participating in this exciting new project.

Avion Construction Ltd. would prefer to work with local resources as much as possible. Please call Steve Gutsche at 250-341-1965 for details. Construction of phase 1 to commence in February 2006.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 2002 KIA RIO RX-V, 5-speed

STK U826

2003 Dodge 3/4 Reg. Cab 4 x 4 Diesel, auto, leather, loaded, lift kit, big tires, warranty. $34,994 OBO

Cranbrook Dodge 1-800-663-2268

STK U810

2001 Dodge SLT Dually 4 x 4 Diesel, auto, loaded, only 109,000 km OBO. $37,999

Cranbrook Dodge 1-800-663-2268

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 15

January 20, 2006 Book Review

by Sheila Bonny

New at the library

Irish Cream by Andrew M. Greeley Irish Cream is Father Greeley’s eighth mystery/romance about the beautiful, fey Irish-American singer Nuala Anne McGrail.

Nuala and her writer/husband Dermont Coyne apply her insightfulness and his family connections to solve the mystery of why their young friend Damian is serving five years probation for an involuntary

manslaughter that he is unlikely to have committed. The Coynes’ investigation earns them enemies and upsets the stability of Damian’s powerful Chicago family.

Throughout the narrative, Greeley weaves excerpts from the melancholy nineteenth-century journal of a West Ireland priest attempting to teach charity in a community troubled by an unsolved murder, ancient pagan superstitions and harsh English occupation. As Dermont and Nuala read the journal, Nuala’s second sight enables her to divine the murderer.

Irish Cream is as much a romance as

a mystery. Despite dealing with two highprofile careers, three precocious children, two enormous Irish wolfhounds and assorted household staff, Nuala and Dermont’s relationship remains unfailingly tender and filled with prodigious physical passion.

The outcome of the manslaughter investigation stretches credibility, Nuala’s insights are magical, and Greeley’s portrayal of marriage is idealized. Despite its fairytale-like qualities, Irish Cream will delight romantics. Rarely is a mystery so filled with humour, compassion and love.

HERE TO SERVE YOU Sewer/Drain Cleaning

NEW

LAMBERT-KIPP PHARMACY LTD.

Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals

J. Douglas Kipp, B. Sc. (Pharm.)

Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

• Complete sewer/drain repair • Reasonable rates - Seniors’ discount • Speedy service - 7 days a week • A well-maintained septic system should be pumped every 3-5 years • Avoid costly repairs

Come in and browse our giftware.

Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm 1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357

342-6612

Avion

Construction Ltd. CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORS

DESIGN/BUILD CUSTOM HOMES • MULTI-FAMILY & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

STEVE GUTSCHE, Project Manager Columbia Valley District

INVERMERE

Cell: (250) 341-1965 Fax: (250) 347-6429 Email: guts64@telus.net www.avionconstruction.com

Floor Covering & Cabinets Blinds & Paints

HEAD OFFICE

335 - 3rd Ave., Invermere, BC Telephone 342-6264 • Fax 342-3546 info@warwick–interiors.com www.warwick-interiors.com

Phone: (403) 287-0144 Fax: (403) 287-2193 #200, 6125 - 11 Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 2L6

Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd.

UNBEATABLE RATES • LARGE CIRCULATION

Good advice, clearly explained

Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Alterations Repair • Bachelor Service

Phone: 342-6610 • 507A - 7th Ave., Invermere

Phone: 341-6299

Dave Sutherland Sales Associate

Complete Automotive Repairs

Kitchen M ag

✽

ic

✽

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

INVERMERE GLASS LTD. Auto • Home • Commercial • Mirrors • Shower Doors • Window Repairs

Jeff Watson

#3, 109 Industrial Road #2, Invermere

Telephone: 342-3659 Fax: 342-3620

✽

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue Invermere, BC www.uppercolumbiapioneer.com Email: upioneer@telus.net

Pierre E. Trudel

Pierre E. Trudel Bus (250) 347-6938 Fax (250) 347-6948 pierre.trudel@clarica.com

Associated with Clarica Financial Services Inc. and Clarica Investco Inc.

WE USE ONLY REAL WOOD

Resurfacing Specialists • Custom Cabinets • Counter Tops

FREE ESTIMATES CUSTOM CRAFTED BY:

Bob Ring

341-3311

Great Selection of:

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

Septic Systems Installed ~ Pumped ~ Repaired Prefab Cement Tanks Installed Water Lines Dug Installed Basements Dug

WINDERMERE 342-6805

*Wood blinds *Sunscreens *Woven Woods *Pleated Shades *Roller Shades and more!

For all your interior decorating needs.

Tamara Osborne Brenda McEachern

Phone /Fax

345-6422

16 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

Pioneer Briefs Identification kits distributed Schools across the Upper Columbia Valley will distribute personal identification kits to kindergarten students. The kits, prepared by the Lake Windermere District Lions Club, are to be used as a reference to provide information to parents and investigators in the event of a kidnapping or an abduction.

The kit includes spaces for photos, fingerprints and hair samples as well as information like eye colour, birth date and height.

The kits will be sent home with valley kindergarten students over the next few weeks, says organizer and Lions Club member Don Critchley.

Rotary Club seeks Citizen of the Year The Rotary Club of Invermere wants nominations for its annual Citizen of the Year. Anyone who wants to nominate a person they feel has made a significant contribution to the community is asked to write a let-

ter outlining their reasons. Please mail your letter to the Rotary Club, Box 877, Invermere, V0A 1K0. The deadline is January 27, 2006.

Contributions to the community can mean many things. The successful recipient does not have to have a high public profile. Many contributions to the community are made in quiet, unassuming ways.

For information, contact any Rotary Club member. Last year’s recipients were Bob and Leona Gadsby.

Region seeks Volunteer of the Year The Regional District of East Kootenay is also searching for its Volunteer of the Year. Nominations are now being accepted for Electoral Area Volunteer Appreciation Awards. The regional district will honour one volunteer from each of its six electoral districts.

In the Columbia Valley, that means one volunteer will be chosen from Area F, including the area from Invermere north to Spillimacheen; and Area G, including the area from Invermere south to Canal Flats.

Nominees must be residents of an Electoral Area and make voluntary contributions to the spirit, culture or people of the community, either as individuals

or as part of a larger non-profit group.

Nomination forms can be picked up at the Columbia Valley regional office. Deadline is February 27, 2006.

For information call Raeleen Manjak at 1-888478-7335.

Fish and wildlife positions open The Columbia Basin Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program is looking for new public representatives to sit on its steering committee to help guide the organization over the next three years.

The program, which recently celebrated 10 years of operation, is a joint initiative between B.C. Hydro, the B.C. Ministry of Environment, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Its purpose is to enhance fish and wildlife populations affected by the construction of B.C. Hydro dams in the Columbia Basin.

Individuals can nominate themselves or conservation groups can put names forward. The positions are for a three-year term starting April 1, 2006 with the deadline for nominations being February 1, 2006.

For more information please visit www.cbfishwildlife.org or call (250) 352-6874, or email angus. glass@bchydro.bc.ca.

HERE TO SERVE YOU CAIRN CARPENTRY

• Flooring • Finishing • General Carpentry

Reasonable Rates Exceptional Quality

Invermere

(250) 270-0390

Residential and Commercial Lighting

Dan Emms General Manager

P.O. Box 1079 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Ph: 250.342.1666

WE PRINT FOR THE VALLEY PUROLATOR DEPOT

342-2999 • POOLS • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • FIREPLACES • BBQʼS • HEATING • VENTILATION • AIR CONDITIONING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BC PO Box 117, Windermere, BC V0B 2L0 Phone: (250) 342-7100 email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com Fax: (250) 342-7103 www.diamondheatingandspas.com

dan@valleylighting.ca www.valleylighting.ca

Bennett Construction Growing with the Tradition of Quality

• Custom Homes • Renovations • Decks

Kristoffer Bennett (250) 341-5030 bennettconstruction@shaw.ca

A.R.K. Concrete

BUILDING AND RENOVATIONS INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD. BOX 2228 BOX 459 742 - 13th STREET 7553 MAIN STREET INVERMERE, BC. RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1K0 V0A 1M0 PHONE: 342-3031 PHONE: 347-9350 FAX: 342-6945 FAX: 347-6350 Email: info@invermereinsurance.com • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

DAREN NOBLE - Finishing Carpenter Basement Development • Complete Kitchen Renoʼs • Bathrooms Decks • Custom Design and Building • Free Estimates

Service You Can Depend On Telephone: (250) 349-5882

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service

Residential • Decorative Concrete Floors, Decks, Patios & Sidewalks

342-6522 Office 342-6512 Fax 342-5465 Aaron Karl 342-1457 Ryan Karl

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

342-3268 (plant) 342-6767 (office)

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 17

January 20, 2006

Loading dock shortage temporarily resolved

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Staff Quiniscoe Homes has received a temporary permit for loading and unloading supplies near its new Parkside Place development on 7th Avenue in Invermere.

Invermere council made the decision at its January 10th meeting. The situation arose because the town’s bylaws call for two loading stalls to be placed within the development.

However, apparently because of some confusion over the wording of the parking requirements, no loading stalls were included in Quiniscoe’s original plan.

“It fell through the cracks both with our designers and with the district,” said Quiniscoe project manager Bob Hawes.

Quiniscoe requested that council amend the bylaw to reduce the required number of loading stalls from two to one. That was approved by council.

The second proposal was to allow Quiniscoe a temporary permit to park on the opposite side of the street, next to Pot Hole Park.

Councillor Bob Campsall spoke against that suggestion, saying that because of the busy traffic on that section of the street, this would put people at risk for accidents. He proposed that a temporary loading dock be allowed on the side of the street in front of Parkside Place.

He said because this would occupy some of the developer’s parking spots in front of the development, it would spur Quiniscoe to resolve the problem quickly by creating a loading stall on their own property. That proposal was voted on and passed by council.

Quiniscoe now has six months to create a permanent loading stall. Mr. Hawes said a site has already been selected for the on-site loading stall to be accessed from the rear of the project but the ground has to thaw out first because some digging needs to be done.

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF EAST KOOTENAY 19 – 24th Avenue South Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: (250) 489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 Fax: (250) 489-1287 Email: rdek@rdek.bc.ca

NOTICE - COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS JUBILEE - STEAMBOAT MOUNTAIN OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN

GREAT PRIZE - Invermere’s Saan Store Manager Patty Seymour watches while Mayor Mark Shmigelsky draws for $1,000 worth of free gas, part of a promotion that took place at all Saan stores in Canada. The local winner was Lana Banham of Invermere.

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF EAST KOOTENAY 19 – 24th Avenue South Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: (250) 489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 Fax: (250) 489-1287 Email: rdek@rdek.bc.ca

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE BYLAW AMENDMENTS - FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Dutch Creek Developments Ltd. to amend the Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will rezone part of the subject property to accommodate expansion of the existing RV resort. The property is located at 5478 Highway 93/95 in the Fairmont Hot Springs area, as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 1872 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay - Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 177, 2006 (Fairmont / Dutch Creek Developments Ltd.)” will amend the zoning designation for part of Sublot 9, District Lot 344, Kootenay District from RES-2, Resort Recreation Zone to RES-1, Recreation Accommodation Zone.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is preparing a new community plan for Area G, north of Radium Hot Springs, including the communities of Edgewater, Brisco and Spillimacheen. The plan will address major land use and development issues in the plan area for the next ten years.

The public hearing will be held at: COLUMBIA RIDGE COMMUNITY CENTRE 6890 Hwy 93/95 Fairmont BC WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2006 at 7:00 pm

The public is invited to participate in community workshops regarding the official community plan. These workshops will be a hands-on opportunity to provide input on the vision of the community for the future development of the plan area. All interested parties are invited to attend.

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G and the Village of Canal Flats.

If you believe that your interest in property is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday; • mail, fax or email written submissions to the addresses/numbers shown above; or • present written and/or verbal submissions at the hearing.

WORKSHOP 1 Residents/Owners in the Brisco, Spillimacheen, Spur Valley/Luxor and Surrounding Areas JANUARY 24, 2005 – 6:30 PM BRISCO COMMUNITY HALL 4919 Nelson Road Brisco BC WORKSHOP 2 Residents/Owners in Edgewater and Surrounding Areas JANUARY 31, 2005 – 6:30 PM EDGEWATER COMMUNITY HALL Selkirk Avenue Edgewater BC If you have questions about the meeting or the planning process, please contact Laurie Cordell, Planner, at (250) 489-0306 or toll free at 1-888-4787335, lcordell@rdek.bc.ca

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw.

For more information contact Rob Veg, Planning Technician at 250 4890314 or toll free at 888-478-7335.

Andrew McLeod, Manager Planning & Development Services January 6, 2006

1-

18 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

FAITH

Valley Churches LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, January 22nd, 10:30 a.m.

Worship and Life Instruction.

Guest Speaker: Rev. Blaine Sylvester from Alliance University College in Calgary.

Sunday School for ages 3 to Grade 3, during the morning service.

Senior Pastor Rev. Dieter Magnus Associate Pastor Rev. Jared Enns 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535 WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY Sunday, January 22nd • United Communion 8:30 - Edgewater - All Saints 10:30 a.m. Invermere - Christ Church Trinity (includes Sunday School) Rev. Sandy Ferguson 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644 VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday, 10:00 am Children’s church during the message part of the service.

Children 4 - 12 years. • Sunday, 7:00 pm Prayer Meeting Senior Pastor Rev. John Cuyler www.vcassembly.com Highway 93/95, 1 km north of Windermere • 342-9511

Need Blinds?

Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere 342 4406 Saturday, 7:00 p.m. Mass • Sunday, 9:00 a.m. Mass

St. Joseph’s Church, Hwy 93/95 Radium Sunday, 11:00 a.m. Mass

St. Anthony’s Church, Canal Flats

Sunday, 4:00 p.m. Mass Father Jose Joaquin 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 342-6167

Solid Wood Blinds Call The Blind Guy! Interior World

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Regular weekly worship services every Sunday at 1:30 pm Sr. Pastor Rev. Bryan K. Schindel 342 4406 Assoc. Pastor Rev. Fraser Coltman at Christ Church Trinity 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere 1-866-426-7564 RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Every Sunday 10:00 am Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater Radium Seniors’ Hall • 342-6633

Lifetime Warranty On All Blinds!

Call Bill Cropper - The Blind Guy!

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday, 10:00 am President J.P. Tremblay, Columbia Valley Branch 342 4406 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 1-866-349-5772

Interior World

Each day is a gift from God

By Jared Enns Youth Pastor Lake Windermere Alliance Church I am and will always be the most valuable commodity in the world.

I can only be used once. Once used I am gone forever. I am desired by everyone but ruled by no one. With me, everyone is on equal ground. I recognize heads of state, kings and queens the same as I do the laborers. I cannot be bought. Each person receives me in the amount that God has allotted. Wisdom and foolishness are revealed in my use, and yet there are times when foolishness is the wisest use of me.

I have been broken down and categorized by every civilization under the sun. Some cultures revered me, while others treated me with reckless disdain. But I have surpassed them all for I am still here and they are gone. All that is left are the memories. History itself is the record of how I have been used.

To some I am freedom itself and to others I am a prison. To some I blow by like the wind, while for others I seem to stand still. You cannot hoard me, control me, store me, but you do have the choice as to how you will spend me.

What will you do with me? Will you make the most of me or will you waste me? I am TIME. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: - a time to be born and a time to die, - a time to plant and a time to uproot, - a time to kill and a time to heal, - a time to tear down and a time to build, - a time to weep and a time to laugh,

- a time to mourn and a time to dance, - a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, - a time to embrace and a time to refrain, - a time to search and a time to give up, - a time to keep and a time to throw away, - a time to tear and a time to mend, - a time to be silent and a time to speak, - a time to love and a time to hate, - a time for war and a time for peace.”

(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) With this new year upon us, almost three weeks of which have already passed, have you thought about what you are doing with your allotment of time?

New Year’s Resolutions are made with the intent of how to use the time we are given, often to better ourselves or those around us, but looking back at year’s end too often we see goals unrealized and another year gone by.

Why not try something a little different this year?

Set out each day with the intent to do something of value with the time that you have, and at the end of each day evaluate by asking yourself, “What did I do of value today?”

- Was I the husband and father that I needed to be today?

- Did I build into the lives of my kids? Spend quality time with them?

- Did I give my best effort at work today?

- Did I honor God with my words and actions?

- Did my being alive make the difference in someone else’s life?

- Did I use my time to build into my life?

Take a moment and look at what is of true lasting value to you. Are you spending your most valuable possession on what really matters? Set your VCR to tape that show, and the dishes will wait.

Each day that you have to live is a gift from God. Spend your time wisely.

Awards presented

Need Blinds? Best Quality & Service

The Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy was presented with the first annual Council of the Federation for Literacy Award.

Leona Gadsby, an Adult Basic Education Instructor at the College of the Rockies and the Regional Literacy Coordinator for the East Kootenay, in turn presented the award cer-

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tificate to the College’s Board of Governors at their regular monthly meeting.

“I felt the College deserved to display this award as they have been one of the Alliance’s greatest supporters and have allowed me to devote hours of time to the advancement of literacy in the Columbia Basin,” she said.

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ROBBIE BURNS DINNER WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25th

Pioneer Classifieds

Traditional Roast Beef & Haggis Dinner Songs & Poetry of Robert Burns The Angus House Band and the Piping o’ the Haggis

January 20, 2006

The Upper Columbia Pioneer • 19

NATURE

From my house to yours, I would like to thank all of my friends and customers for their generous support this year, and I would like to remind you that I’ll be here for you throughout all seasons!

Jayne Magri Valentine’s Coming Soon!

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Open water on Lake Windermere near Lakeside Pub as it flows into the Columbia River. Photo by Lisa Ede

Home Hardware

Building Centre 342-6908

TIP OF THE WEEK Last week’s unseasonable warm weather has brought out the buds on the lilac bushes. Photo by Bob Ede

Irene says, “When leaving the wood yard remember to check in at the gate and we’ll make sure you have everything you came for.”

The sun rises over the wetlands and gleams on the railway tracks on a frosty morning. Photo by Bob Ede

WE’VE GOT YOUR LUMBER.

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Perry Horning, (left) multi-time winner of the On The Lake Bonspiel was seen getting the inside scoop on ice conditions from ice maker Fred Christensen. The On The Lake Bonspiel is set to start tonight and go through the weekend. Photo by Bob Ede.

Your local Columbia Valley Representative Jacqueline Pinsonneault

(250) 342-0217

Community Futures Development Corporation of the SE Region of BC 110A Slater Road NW Cranbrook, BC V1C 5C8 Tel: (800) 661-2293 Fax: (250) 489-1886 Email: info@keytoyourfuture.net • Website: www.keytoyourfuture.net In partnership with Rocky Mountain Business Development Centre

20 • The Upper Columbia Pioneer

January 20, 2006

Invermere

Independently Owned and Operated Wende Brash 342-1300

Bernie Raven 342-7415

Scott Wallace 342-5309

Andy Smith 342-1709

Daniel Zurgilgen 342-1612

Ed English 342-1194

Ron Maciborski Bryan Hookenson 342-5704 341-1266

250-342-6505

John McCarthy Lynda Kirkpatrick 341-1907 342-1758

Jan Klimek 342-1195

Rob Rice 342-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice 342-5935

At Panorama: 250-341-4898 At Radium: 250-347-0041 Timeshare: 250-342-2829 Toll Free: 1-888-258-9911

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Elegant Abode

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Walking distance to the beach, tennis courts and downtown Invermere. Rock fireplace, fir flooring and bright, open living concept gives you that warm, cozy feeling.

Master BR with ensuite. Legal rental suite in part of the basement which helps pay for the mortgage. Detached garage, level lot and great views. MLS# EXC004

A fabulous three bedroom home offering elegant one level living. Located in the Highlands with panoramic mountain views and a private deck for outdoor entertaining. Minutes to Invermere but located in a quiet, prestigious neighborhood. This could be the one! MLS# 114661

Imagine living in your new two storey, beautifully finished duplex. Solid hardwood and carpeting throughout. Solid hardwood cabinets. Quality plus! This 2 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is an ideal recreational or full time investment.

Great potential for revenue income, too! MLS#114647

Wilder Subdivision

Service Commercial

Rundle Place

Keep the Future in Mind...

$427,500.00

This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is located close to everything Invermere has to offer. The beach, the schools and downtown are all within walking distance.

Located at the end of a quiet cul de sac. Nicely landscaped yard with a roomy house in great condition. Views and privacy, great neighbourhood. MLS#114671

$339,000.00

$425,000.00

Thinking of being your own boss? This is a great place to start that new business youʼve been dreaming of! Over 3⁄4 acre at the south entrance into Canal Flats with C-2 (Service Commercial) zoning. Invest in this fast growing community now. MLS#114304

$79,900.00

$286,900.00+gst

The newest cul de sac subdivision in the quickly growing town of Canal Flats.

Ten lots in all, with full underground service – water, sewer, hydro, Telus, cable.

Building scheme specifies five years to build, and only 1000 sq. ft. minimum size. Could be the best investment in the valley now. MLS#114311

From $44,900.00+gst

A Piece of Paradise

Mountain Views & Quiet Surroundings

By the Toby Chairlift

Earmark this doublewide manufactured home in Edgewater. Large corner lot, storage shed, and sundeck. Full unfinished basement waiting for a handy-mans touch.

Propane fireplace in the living room and a pellet stove in the basement to keep the hydro bills in check! Great way to start or as a revenue property. MLS#113766

An awesome location for your Panorama ski experience. Nestled on the sunny side of the building and a few steps to the lift. Studio unit which comes fully furnished and ready to use. New vision assessment is paid in full. Call Today!!

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Looking for privacy? Enjoy the lake views from this sloping treed acreage. Just minutes from Invermere on the Westside Road, yet far enough away to escape.

This is a beautiful piece of paradise waiting for you to build the home of your dreams. A must to view. MLS#113168

$250,000.00

$98,800.00+gst

$199,900.00

Historic Home

One of the Best

Situated on five lots with panoramic views, this home features all wood finishing, cathedral ceilings and hardwood floors. An original church, this home is a charmer!

MLS#114663

$435,000.00

Enjoy all this beautiful home has to offer! 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms including master with ensuite & steam shower.

Open, spacious design, large country kitchen. Big, private back yard with lake views and partially treed. Deck off the master suite for morning coffee! Double garage, low maintenance exterior and access to the lake and community centre with swimming pool. MLS#112340

$950,000.00