vol3issue50

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Vol. 3/Issue 50

The Columbia

Valley

December 15, 2006

FREE

P IONEER

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

SHOP LOCAL

LIGHTING UP THE LANE 5

Kim Ostere not only decorated the outside of her own house, she went ahead and trimmed every house on her street. See Page 27.

RECIPES TO KEEP

15 RESTAURANT REDO

25

World traveller Andy Stuart-Hill has written a book about the history of Panorama ski resort. Page 17.

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

VALLEY NEWS

Just in the Nick of time for Christmas!

Pick up a unique basket at AG Foods, Fairmont Bigway, Windermere Foods, Mountainside Market, or Pip’s Country Store

Hospital opens its doors

342-3160

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

info@itsawrapgiftbaskets.ca

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The Invermere and District Hospital held an open house last week to show the place to valley residents and give them a chance to see the place walking upright through the front door - rather than that same old view of the ceiling you get through the emergency room door. It was a chance to meet the staff and look behind the curtain, so to speak.

Community Administrator Rose Bard conducted a tour of the Invermere hospital.

Hospital director Rose Bard guided tours ers like concerned family members hovering over a through the complex of services and agencies. What loved one, and sometimes lingered to get more inforshe revealed was a busy, full-featured, working hospimation about a specific machine or process. tal, lacking only a surgeon.

Stops on the tour included: Most people mention the lack of a surgery as a • Admitting, Health Records and Diagnostic Imkind of disclaimer when talking about the hospital, aging departments began the tour. Admitting is the but if you consider all the hospital has to offer, you hub of the hospital, she said. Health Records mainmight not even miss the surgery. tains records on all in- and out-patients and makes About two dozen curious attendees followed Mrs. sure everyone who needs them gets access and those Bard through the corridors as she introduced each who don’t, well, don’t. Diagnostic Imaging is all about area, pointing out capabilities and achievements. She digital X-rays which have really revolutionized the introduced staff members who demonstrated equipbusiness of diagnostic imaging: No more laborious ment and got technical about their areas. chemistry and long wait times for films in transport.

The guests crowded into rooms, encircling stretchContinued on Page 3

Phone: 342-6911

Mountain Fresh, Locally Crafted Christmas decorations!

Wreaths Cedar Garlands Christmas baskets Fir & Balsam Christmas Trees much, much, more . . .

Located directly across from Pharmasave Perry Horning 342-9811

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

December 15, 2006

Library-theatre combo proposed

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff The District of Invermere has requested a joint proposal from the Public Library and the Columbia Valley Arts Council for the construction of a combined library and performing arts center in downtown Invermere.

Arts Council past-president Cameron Berry said he and library board chair Sandy McIlwain intend to deliver the proposal on January 9th.

District of Invermere Mayor Mark Shmigelsky said that with proposals from two organizations— both capable of raising the money to build—it was in the public’s best interest to combine the projects in order to save on operations and maintenance costs.

“It’s in its infancy,” the mayor said, agreeing, in principle, to the idea of dual-purpose facility in downtown Invermere. The site of the old high school, and the site of the current Community Hall, are both possible locations for the new centre.

“I think it’s a good idea,” Mr. Berry said of the combined project, referring to the economies of scale that can be realized in a two-for-one deal.

Continued from Page 2 • The Emergency department is comprised of a trauma room with six stretchers, a cast room and ‘booked procedures’ room with two stretchers. There is a triage process, Mrs. Bard explained, that is standardized across the province to ensure that patients get prioritized by the severity of their injuries or sickness. According to Rose, the record to beat is nine casts set in one day.

• The Acute Care department includes rooms and services for those who are being born and those who are dying. About 30 babies per year are delivered in the Labour Room on the hospital’s original 30-year-old birthing bed. There are eight acute care beds, two with heart monitors.

Palliative Care rooms include a furnished room with sofa-bed and kitchenette for family members during an end-of-life illness. The room was furnished and is sponsored by the Windermere Health Care Auxiliary.

• The Rehab Services department, including occu-

6th Annual Lakeside Pub Food Bank Benefit Concert

Although there was an initial interest in siting near its existing facility, Mr. Berry said the beach has been scratched as a possible site for the building, out of concern for the library’s need for a central location and to preserve green space around the restored Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

According to Mr. Berry, the arts council is looking to create a space twice the size of the largest venue currently available for performing arts, Christ Church Trinity, which holds 160 people.

“We’ve been getting good vibes from the community on this,” Mr. Berry said. “We look at Banff and their theatres as an incredible performing arts scene.

Other year-round communities who have done this have been very successful.”

Mr. McIlwaine agreed with the idea of a joint facility. “I think both the library and the arts council are happy,” he said.

Mr. McIlwain said the proposal he and Mr. Berry will submit in January will be a rough sketch of the project with approximations of square footage and costs. “At that point,” he said, “council can decide whether or not to support the project. Then the fundraising can start in earnest.” pational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy, was next on the tour.

Services are designed to help people regain the use of injured body parts, help them learn to use walking aids or wheelchairs, or help them learn to swallow and speak.

Through a set of doors and down another hallway, visitors also toured Columbia House, a multilevel care facility with 35 beds. The facility’s Adult Day Program provides respite for caregivers of aging friends or relatives including food, bathing, socialization and activities.

Other departments and services include a blood lab, Public Health Unit, a dialysis clinic, a pharmacy, dietitian, home care nurses, a mental health unit, case managers for home support and food services for patients, residents and staff.

The Health Connections Bus, Mrs. Bard noted, provides transportation for patients from Golden to Canal Flats for medical appointments booked in Cranbrook.

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HURRY IN WHILE STOCK LASTS! We are open December 31st, 12-5 pm for Hair & Esthetics

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

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RCMP Report Between December 2nd and December 9th, members of the Columbia Valley Detachment responded to 84 calls for service. Seven of these calls were Motor Vehicle Accidents.

• December 2: Police responded to a complaint of an intoxicated male outside the two bars on 13th Street in Invermere. The adult male was arrested and issued a ticket for being intoxicated in a public place.

• December 2: Police on patrol in Canal Flats were conducting random vehicle checks for impaired drivers. Police stopped a blue GMC Jimmy, and the 34-year-old Canal Flats driver displayed slights signs of impairment. The man was issued a 24-hour driving suspension.

• December 3: Sometime between 11:30 p.m. and 1 a.m. an unknown culprit threw a rock through the passenger window of a car which was parked in front of Lambert Insurance.

• December 3: An Invermere business man found his office in the industrial area had been broken into overnight. The culprit made off with a computer and monitor.

• December 3: Police received a request for assistance from the Nobles County Sheriffs Office advising of a possible stolen vehicle being in the Invermere Area. Police located the vehicle and arrested a female driver who was transported to hospital for medical assessment.

• December 4: Police received information that a hit-and-run had occurred to a vehicle which was parked at the craft fair sometime before 11 a.m.

• Between November 29th and December 1: A young skier at Panorama had his laptop computer, valued at $2500, stolen from the Pine Inn. • December 3: Three pairs of racing skis were stolen from the lobby of the same lodge.

• Between November 30th and December 5: An unknown culprit or culprits smashed a passenger window to a vehicle parked on St. Mary’s Street in Radium Hot Springs. Stolen was a face plate from the CD player, sub amp and sub box.

• December 6: RCMP stopped a southbound Toyota Celica for speeding. Approach to the vehicle found the driver displaying several signs of impair-

ment. The man was detained for impaired driving and escorted for breath samples of 140 and 130 mg percent.

The 42-year-old Radium Hot Springs man will appear in provincial court on January 23rd.

• December 6: Police were notified of a break-and-enter in Radium sometime over the course of the last month.

The back window was smashed and a barbecue was stolen.

• December 6: Police attempted to stop a vehicle for speeding. The vehicle eventually stopped; however, upon investigation by the member, the driver displayed several signs of impairment.

The driver was detained for impaired driving and two breath samples were provided of 140 and 130 mg percent each which is close to twice the legal limit of alcohol.

• December 7: Police responded to an attempted break-and-enter in Edgewater where two suspects were seen in the home by the homeowner and were chased out of the residence. A suspect was caught by the homeowner within a short distance. This file along with a few other reported break-and-enters are believed associated. This investigation is still ongoing and charges are pending against two local adult males.

• December 7: Police followed a vehicle which was driving erratically.

The vehicle was stopped and driver displayed several signs of impairment. The driver resisted arrest and will be charged for impaired driving.

The Columbia Valley RCMP would like to pass on to all citizens the impact that vandalized or stolen signs have on our communities. This creates traffic hazards and can have an impact on public safety if the signs are not replaced quickly. This does not take into account the cost it has on all taxpayers.

Many traffic signs have either been vandalized or have gone missing over the past several months in Invermere alone.

The cost of the sign can range obviously depending on the type and size, from $200 to $500 and up, not including the labor involved to physically erect the sign.

It takes a whole community to stand up and make those responsible accountable for their actions. If you see something - take a stand; it’s your community, too!

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

December 15, 2006

Sandra goes shopping

By Sandra Kelly Special to The Pioneer I don’t know about you, but I’ve had it with big Christmas gifts. I don’t mean getting them. Who doesn’t enjoy spotting a big package under the tree?

I’m talking about buying them for other people, and then lugging them home, wrapping them and lugging them somewhere else. Size matters, so I’m thinking smaller than a breadbox this year. Here are a few ideas: • Passes: A book of ten passes to the natural hot pools at Radium or Fairmont is an excellent gift, especially in winter. Ski passes are ideal for friends and family visiting for the holidays. A day pass is just $63 at Panorama. A season’s pass for adults costs $849 and a transferable parent’s pass is $899. Each comes with extras, including a Destination Next Card and two day lift tickets for friends.

• Tools: Plenty of people appreciate getting tools.

Home Hardware has some awesome deals, including a 45-piece multi-use tool set for $19.97. It comes in a small tote bag and has everything necessary for household use. At Ace Hardware, ask about the compact 3.6 V screwdriver kit for just $49.99. Every house should have one.

• Housewares: Metal and ceramics are all the rage these days. While you’re at Home Hardware buying tools, ask about the seven-piece stainless steel utensil set by Paderno, priced at $29.97. It’s very contemporary and ideal for the young people. Ace Hardware has a four-piece stoneware cooking and baking set, in bright red, for $21.19.

• Home accessories: I’m talking about small items such as ornaments and lamps and wall art. Try Interior World, Be Gifted, The Place for Fine Furniture, Rockie’s Gateway Gallery and Sears, all downtown, and Panache Furniture, at the crossroads. Don’t forget Te Papa Nui in the industrial park.

• Notions: Drugstores always have the greatest variety of small gift items. Pharmasave and Lambert & Kipp both have a good selection of candy and perfumes and cosmetics and books and fashion jewelry.

Surprise someone with a complete package of Dr. Scholl’s footcare products.

• Services: This year, why not give a service rather than a product? If you have friends who are planning to renovate or build, hire interior designer Sharon Muir, or any of the talented folks at Panache and Warwick Interiors, to help them with the project. Prepare your house for the holiday season with help from SkiHome.

• Buy someone a cleaning service from Ptarmigan Rug Cleaners, or a round of business cards at Palliser Printing, or a class in quilting at Purcell Mtn. Quilting Co. Some of us have too much stuff; we appreciate a service more.

• Gift Certificates: Nothing is lighter or easier to send through the mail. Start with a certificate from Valley Fitness Centre, for a membership or a personal training package. We’re all going to need help after the holidays.

• Visit the pro shop at Copper Point Golf Course or Windermere Valley Golf. There are some good offseason deals on golf apparel and accessories for men, women and juniors. Buy the golfer in your family a free round or two, or season passes at any of the valley golf courses.

• Jewellery is always a hit. If you’re not sure about the recipient’s taste, certificates are available from most of the valley’s jewellers and gift shops. Look for pieces made by talented local artists. And branch out from the usual stores: Artym, Village Arts, Oasis Body and Bath, Bliss Hair and Esthetics, and River Gems all carry beautiful jewellery.

• A new hairstyle makes an excellent gift. Bliss in Invermere, and Trims and Treasures in Fairmont both have certificates. Anglz and Valley Hairstyling are other options. Throw in a manicure, pedicure or tanning session.

• Clothing is always appreciated, but it’s hard to select for others. Give a gift certificate from Penner’s Footware and Clothing, Details by JoAnne, Essentials Department Store, Reflections, or Thredz, all in downtown Invermere.

• Last-minute ideas: Order a gift basket from It’s A Wrap. Stay awake during the season with Kicking Horse Coffee gift packs.

This year, think easy, convenient and practical.

Think small!

Rare sighting George and Audry Thornton, who live on 4th Avenue in Invermere near the lake, spotted this unusual bird and looked it up in their bird book. They found that it is a male Western Rufous-sided Towhee. Ordinarily this bird lives in southern Canada to the southern U.S. and northern Central America, but this little fellow, who appeared to be on his own, was far out of his range. The Thorntons wondered if he hadn’t been blown off course.

The bird returned to their feeder several times between November 19th and December 3rd before disappearing.

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DAVID THOMPSON SECONDARY SCHOOL The staff of DTSS would like to congratulate

Zane Koss with receiving the Governor General’s Award granted to the highest academic student in Grade 12 based on Grade 11 and 12 marks.

Congratulations from the DTSS staff!

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Heavenly hot springs

December 15, 2006

Historical Lens

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Publisher One of the greatest natural resources our valley has to offer is the presence of not one, but two beautiful hot springs.

More than one million visitors a year travel from far and wide to soak themselves, and we are blessed to live just a few minutes away from both of these natural wonders.

At this time of the year it’s especially magical to sink into the hot water and watch the snowflakes swirl and melt in the rising steam. And one of the great things about hot pools as opposed to the regular kind is that the clouds of steam provide a certain amount of privacy, especially for those who are self-conscious about being seen in a bathing suit!

It’s our Christmas Eve family tradition to visit the hot springs after an early supper. When the children were small it helped to make them sleepy so that Santa could have an early night, too. It’s also a great way to visit with friends and relatives of all ages.

If you ask any of the local residents, they will usually express a preference for either the Radium or the Fairmont pool, although both have their advantages.

Fairmont has a cool pool and a hot pool side by side, which is ideal for families.

Radium, on the other hand, has great natural beauty, tucked between the rocky cliffs on each side.

And it also offers an occasional glimpse of wildlife.

A few days ago my daughter and her boyfriend were in the Radium hot pool when someone at the far end yelled: “Look! A mountain sheep!”

The pool immediately turned into a frothing, splashing mass of people as everyone in the entire pool surged down to the other end to watch the sheep, leaving my daughter and her boyfriend all alone at the opposite end.

“That’s when we knew we were the only locals there,” my daughter said.

Paradise Mine, which extracted lead and zinc, was located in the Purcell Mountains west of Invermere in the early 1900s. Shown here is the recreation building, the bunk house and the cook house.

Photo courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

LETTERS Dear Editor: On behalf of Panorama Mountain Village, I would like to sincerely thank you for the time and space you dedicated to the Resort in the December 8th issue of the Columbia Valley Pioneer.

We appreciate your coverage of Andy StewartHill’s new book documenting the history of Panorama, our resort’s winter season opening, and our new employee accommodation.

Your paper’s focus on Panorama aids our employees and the Columbia Valley community in understanding the focus of our resort, and our place within the local culture and economy.

We feel that our resort is an important part of

the valley, and Andy’s lively narrative of Panorama’s growth into its present form depicts this.

Just as the valley’s community was an integral element of operations at the resort’s inception, it continues today with active involvement from local residents as team members, season pass holders, and the Windermere Valley Ski Club.

Again, I would like to thank you for your coverage of Panorama within the Columbia Valley Pioneer. We are proud to be a part of the valley community, and we are very appreciative that you took the time to communicate this to your readers.

Mark Woodburn, General Manager Panorama Mountain Village

The Columbia Valley

P IONEER is independently owned and operated and is published weekly by Abel Creek Publishing Inc. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone (250) 341-6299 · Fax (250) 341-6229 Email: upioneer@telus.net · www.columbiavalleypioneer.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 Columbia Valley Pioneer. It is agreed by any display advertiser requesting space that the newspaper’s 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

Brian Geis Reporter

Dave Sutherland Advertising Sales

Bob Friesen Advertising Sales

Zephyr Rawbon

Sarah Turk

Graphic Designer

Office Manager

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

December 15, 2006

Fibre wider, not faster Dear Editor: Regarding your article in a recent issue about Fibre Services in the valley. Your reporter writes: “You probably know a little about how fast light travels, so it’s not hard to understand how optical fibres allow digital data transmission over longer distances and at much higher speeds than conventional electronic communication.”

I, for one, however, am excited about the potential bandwidth that fibre brings to the valley and the business opportunities that this allows. I work in Calgary and telecommute from Invermere about half the time, hence my interest in highspeed communications.

I am a computer programmer and the discussion occurred with some of my colleagues in Calgary. We are developing a software application for a government client. Your article sparked a bit of lunchtime geek debate with some colleagues.

I had to point out a few links on the web that highlight that the speed of data communications over fibre is not really any faster that conventional electronic means of communication and in fact

cable can actually transmit signals faster than fibre optic cables.

Of course, there is significant latency with electrical signals over wire which make it less suitable for very long distance communications. As one article points out, traditional ethernet and fibre optic cables both transmit signals about two-thirds of the speed of light in a vacuum. While I am not an expert on these matters, I am just referring to information available on the internet about this subject.

What it is important to understand is the data capacity that fibre channels bring to the valley rather than the absolute speed.

All electromagnetic radiation travels at the speed of light. There would be some impedance in air, I’m sure, but traditional forms of communication transmit signals as fast or faster than fibre optic cables over very great distances. For example, we can communicate with the Mars Rover without the need for a big long fibre optic cable.

I enjoy your articles and keep up the good work.

Rob Orchiston Invermere

Local hospital praised Dear Editor: A few months ago I asked Rose Bard, Hospital Administrator, if we would ever have a REAL hospital here again.

The last few weeks I have spent many hours visiting a friend in our hospital. I know now that our Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Home Care Nurses, Home Care support, as well as the Lab, X-Ray Staff, Admitting Clerks, Housekeeping Staff, etc. are the best of the best.

The Open House on Dec. 7th confirmed this. We may not have surgery performed here any longer, but we do have lots of other services offered that I am sure many of us are not aware of.

Soooo Rose, yes, I agree with you.

We already have a REAL hospital, and I thank you and all the wonderful staff for keeping it that way.

Margaret Hodson Radium Hot Springs

Corrections The historic photographs used in last week’s article on the origins of Panorama Ski Resort were provided by the Windermere District Historical Society, and the front page photograph of Andy Stuart-Hill was taken by Mountain Eye Photography located at Panorama. *** The deadline for contributing Christmas gifts to the Angel Tree at Dairy Queen is Saturday, December 16th, not December 21st as reported. The gifts will be included in the Christmas Bureau’s hampers being distributed on December 20th.

Quality antique furniture and collectibles from Canada, Europe and Asia.

Architectural items for home & garden.

HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Here We Grow Again!

Wewould have The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) likemany to invite you to a Christmas Open House at our new Invermere Offi ce on December 8, 2006. beautiful collectibles for Christmas Come and enjoy some holiday baking andyour refreshments, meet with stocking.

NCC staff, and learn more about our work in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Drop in anytime between 3:00pm and 7:00pm. We’re located on the second floor of Frater Landing (next to Interior World) Invermere Industrial Park (just off the to Panorama) Special thanks to all the local individuals androad businesses who helped with supplies, equipment, labour including:

Tel. 342-0707

Kicking Horse Coffee Quasar Western Electric Interior World Email: klein@nucleus.com Invermere Home Hardware CXL Construction Warwick Interiors

www.tepapanui.com

Emi, Hillary, Eva, Mark, Erin, Ania, Grahame, Trevor, Karl and Pat, Arnie, Gary, Dave, Cathi, Leo,

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

LETTERS

Foreign workers no answer to labour shortage (Copy of letter sent to Premier Gordon Campbell, MP Jim Abbott, MLA Norm Macdonald, and several newspapers).

Dear Jim Abbott, Member of Parliament: You recently toured through the Kootenay - Columbia Valley. On the conclusion of the tour an article appeared in the Pioneer (a local paper) entitled “Labour Shortage Hurts Valley Business.”

There is much more to this situation than you have given credence to. Misleading propaganda may work on some of the people, but it’s not working on all of us.

During your tour did you happen to notice the skyrocketing prices of homes, property, rent, and food? Maybe this just slipped your mind! While travelling you must have had to gas up . . . well, I guess you don’t handle the pump.

Inflation here has been left unchecked; it’s ridiculous. When government turns a blind eye and refuses to acknowledge that inflation (an increase in prices) is the problem, people who work for minimum wages suffer (service industry), and they can no longer live here.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that minimum wage doesn’t pay the $1300/month rent.

There is NO affordable housing in this valley - although our valley boasts of some of the most expensive

second homes in North America (up to 70 percent in some areas) and now Jumbo Resort, hmmm.

It’s really quite simple: you can’t afford the rent on minimum wages, so you can’t afford to live here!!

I wonder how many business owners have kept their employees’ wages up to contend with inflation.

These employees who do nothing - except keep our businesses running.

Then there’s Minister Solberg - he should be ashamed of himself (obviously this man has no conscience). His Pilot Project is temporary (who knows) foreign worker units in Vancouver and Calgary.

I definitely have a sinking feeling like a rat on a ship going down, only the ship is my own country!

The government bringing in foreign labour - this should be illegal!

How much will this cost, where will they be housed, who will pay for the housing, will transportation be paid for (to and from work), or are these people going to buy cars and gas like our own children do?

We have a 6.4-percent unemployment rate, welfare recipients, homeless, and students (who are paying outrageous costs for education, so they can escape the sinking ship), and the government is offering a tax credit to employers? Wouldn’t that tax credit be better given to the students or apprentices?

As for deducting the costs of ‘some’ of the tools, if you can afford to bring in foreign workers, house them

Consider donating to kids overseas Dear Editor: Think what would happen if we took all the parents of all the children in Canada, either one or both of the parents, and snuffed out their lives with a disease.

Then consider that half of all grandparents in this country are left caring for orphans because there is no one else to do it.

Think of the devastation that would be to our country in terms of our infrastructures such as food production, roads, hospitals, law enforcement, education, governments, etc.

Think of the horrific emotional toll upon the children and the grieving grandparents who are left trying to care for them.

Unimaginable, right? Yet if we calculated the number of children in Canada (plus several other countries) it still would not equal the number of children in Africa who have been orphaned by AIDS. (To say nothing of war, malaria etc.)

It is still an unfair comparison, for Canada is much wealthier than Africa and could cope significantly better.

If any of your readers are struggling trying to buy gifts for someone who doesn’t need anything, perhaps they could consider spending part or even all of their gift budget as a donation to honor their loved ones.

A poll this year pointed out 84 percent of Canadians would prefer a meaningful gift given to help

others over a traditional gift such as socks or sweaters.

For those worried their funds wouldn’t reach their intended recipients, be assured that World Vision, Doctors Without Borders, The Stephen Lewis Foundation and Samaritan’s Purse only work with grassroots projects where they are confident the money gets disbursed at the community level and not into the hands of governments or armies.

Google any of these organizations for contact information.

They say Christmas is for kids.

Let’s make it really true this year.

Dorothy Isted Invermere

and transport them, why not deduct all the costs of tools from their income tax? Why are you not interested in helping Canadians and their children? They are the future!

The future outlook for our country looks grim: it appears we may become a Third World country with our products manufactured in other countries for $0.80 an hour and foreign labour taking our minimum wage jobs.

It’s time to take a look at what is really happening.

There is a housing shortage, there definitely is a great need for much more low-cost housing, and minimum wages definitely need to be increased to keep in check with the high cost of living, along with all other wages affected by this wave of extremely high costs.

We do not need foreign labourers: they already have all our manufacturing jobs (made in Mexico, Taiwan, China, Philippines, India, etc.)

We as citizens of Canada need to be assured of an income on which we can pay the rent, telephone, hydro, propane, mortgage, vehicle and insurance, groceries, repairs, clothing, schooling, taxes, medical insurance, prescription drugs, etc. This is the point at which I truly do need a rocket scientist to figure it out.

Help, I’m drowning. We’re all up ---- creek without a paddle.

Margaret Tegart Invermere Dear Editor: There is a Santa Claus and his elves!

On the evening December 5, a group of elves (5-7-1) entered our snow-covered driveway and proceeded to remove the snow. They must have thought we were tucked in our bed fast asleep.

They did not let us know they were there, thus asking for nothing - not even milk and cookies!

From the residents of 1117 - 5th Street. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

What a great community we live in.

Ray and Louise Collier, Invermere Dear Editor:

***

On behalf of the Wildsight, Invermere Branch, I would like to thank Kicking Horse Coffee for donating coffee and tea for our Annual General Meeting this past Saturday. Kindest thanks!

Heather Leschied, Invermere

> >>>

Encore

Page 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS

Bissett Singers

LOCAL ARTIST

Page 10 PAGE 12 MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 1O

Out & About

Ceramic artist

Your Weekly Guide to What’s Happening Around the Columbia Valley PAGE 11

Gift Ideas… CV Arts January Events

Romanza, three dynamic, talented, thoroughly entertaining young Canadian tenors performing operatic and popular music. Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2007 at 7:30, Christ Church Trinity. Tickets $20 and $10.

Symphonie of the Kootenays, with “Miniature Classics”, performed by the Principal Players of the Orchestra. Sunday, Jan. 28, 2007 at 2 PM, Christ Church Trinity.

Tickets $25 and $10.

342-4423 columbiavalleyarts.com

Cinefest: The Journals of Knud Rasmussen · Toby Theatre Monday, January 15, 2007 at 7 pm Call Pynelogs for tickets now! 342-4423

What does ART mean to you?

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS

Bissett Singers to perform at Edgewater Hall Submitted by Barry Moore Chuck Bisset, along with the Bisset Singers and some of his students, will share the joy of Christmas at the Edgewater Community Hall, 2 p.m. Saturday, December 16.

Chuck’s students won the U.S. Northwest vocal competition in Spokane last year, taking the gold and the silver medals. His students have placed in the Finals of the B.C. Provincial Music Festival for the past ten years. The Bisset Singers meet weekly

in Cranbrook - members not only come from Cranbrook but from as far away as Bonner’s Ferry, Idaho to the south and Edgewater to the north. As Chuck says: “That’s Dedication!” But no matter where they travel from, all the members are committed singers who are striving for a high quality of music and presentation.

Chuck is hopeful that this hellacious cold will find some other dwelling place and he will be able to sing as well. Although Chuck occasionally still goes abroad to sing, his portfolio (which he emphasises is from a long time past) includes performances with major symphonies in the U.S. and Europe. Past engagements at this season include sing-

ing at the lighting of the White House Christmas Tree.

Of most importance to those who will be performing is the Spirit of Chirstmas. There is no charge for attending. A box of Christmas sharing will be present for donations as will all the proceeds be going to the Food Bank. Bring your gift and make it possible for the less fortunate to experience the true measure of Christmas. You can share groceries, clothes or money - which will be 100percent given to the Food Bank.

And settle in for a wonderful afternoon of exciting solo and ensemble numbers and rousing spiritual Christmas music in the fabled acoustics of the Edgewater Community Hall.

Movie Review: Talledega Nights Review by Brian Geis

NEW YEAR’S MARDI GRAS

I think Will Ferrell is brilliant and I think NASCAR is funny. So, my opinion is biased, but teamed up with John C. Reilly - who is a great dramatic actor but side-splittingly funny in comedic roles - and Sacha Baron Cohen of Ali G and Borat fame (as arch-nemesis Jean Girard), it’s an unbeatable combination.

Ferrell plays NASCAR legend Ricky Bobby in this rags-to-richesto-rags-to-riches story. Bobby’s world is rocked when the gay, French, Formula One newcomer-to-NASCAR driver Jean Girard starts breaking his records.

A hilariously long wreck which sends his car tumbling end-over-end about three-quarters the way around the track leaves Ricky Bobby in a light coma and crippled with fear of racing.

Ricky’s “true friends” gather around him to support a comeback as his long-lost, deadbeat dad reappears

Tickets $15 (before 10:00 p.m.)

Sunday, December 31st • Great Specials • Party Favours • Midnight Snacks Located in The Best Western Invermere Inn

NOTICE

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

The Pioneer office will be closed December 25th to January 1st.

Deadlines for the December 22nd and 29th issues are Monday, December 18th at 5:00 p.m. including Classifieds.

Gone

HOLLYWOOD V

I D E O

Gone Hollywood’s

TOP FIVE OF THE WEEK Last Week’s Top 5 Rentals

New Releases Dec. 12

New Releases Dec. 19

1. Pirates of the Caribbean 2. Dead Man’s Chest 3. Miami Vice 4. You, Me and Dupree 5. Superman Returns

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Talladega Nights The Devil Wears Prada World Trade Centre Material Girls Barnyard

Little Miss Sunshine My Super Ex-Girlfriend All the King’s Men Wicker Man Jet Li’s - Fearless

to drive the fear out of him by pitting him against a cougar and planting drugs in his car and calling the police to force a moonshiner-style cop chase that reinstills his love of speed.

Ricky and his friends manage to scrape together a car from donated parts to give him a rematch with archnemesis Jean Girard. As promised, hilarity ensues.

If that weren’t enough, NASCAR fans will enjoy the cameos by many of the drivers and media figures that populate the sport. Also, chubby, effeminate Andy Richter plays (hilariously) the minor role of Jean Girard’s lover.

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby is “unrated and uncut” so there is some profanity and the special features are chock full of gag reels, alternate scenes and ad-libbing.

RATING: 4 OUT OF 5 HEADS

DVD �VHS GAME CUBE �� XBOX ��XBOX 360 ��PS2 ��GQ 503 - 7th Ave., Invermere

342-0057

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

December 15 , 2006

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS settings available. For info: Karla Schager, 342-9981.

December 20th

Out & About Please call 341-6299 or Email us at upioneer@telus.net to enter your event in our FREE listings.

Toby Theatre • December 13 - 16: Flicka • December 20 - 23: Prestige

December 14th, 15th, 16th • Renovation 1/2 price sale, Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Shop. The shop will be closed December 17th to January 11th for the holiday & renovations.

December 15th • 7:30 pm: Golden Rockets vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

• 6:30 pm & 7:30 pm: Live Christmas Nativity pageant, Catholic Church, 702 - 12th Avenue, Invermere. For info: Herb at 347-6761, Mary Ellen at 342-3615, or Christ Church Trinity at 342-6644.

• 8 am - 12 pm: Last day to drop off Christmas hampers, Invermere Community Hall.

December 25th • Christmas Day

• 2 pm: Chuck Bisset, with the Bissett Singers, Edgewater Community Hall. Free admission.

• 1st Year Anniversary Bash, Bud’s Bar & Lounge. $5 cover at the door, Disaster Man rock band.

December 17th • 1 pm: Santa Visit & Play, no charge, Brisco Community Hall. For info: 346-3294.

• 6 pm: Christmas Pot Luck & Play, $5, under 12 free, Brisco Community Hall. For info: 346-3294.

• 8 pm: New Years Eve & Silent Auction, Franci Sterzer Benefit, Canal Flats Community Hall. Tickets $25/each. For info: 342-1249 or 341-1723.

• New Years Eve Mardi Gras, Copper City Saloon.

Tickets $15, before 10 pm.

• New Years Extravaganza, music by “Blue Dog”.

Tickets available, for info call 346-3294.

• Annual Village Birthday and New Years Family Fun Party, hosted by the Radium Chamber of Commerce, Radium Hot Springs. For info: 347-6455.

January 2nd • 7:30 pm: Fernie vs. Columbia Valley Rockies, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Student News • Wednesday, December 20: Christmas performance, Martin Morigeau. For info: 349-5665.

• Friday, December 22: Last day of classes for 2006!

• Radium Hot Springs Holiday Hours Hot Pool: December 22, 23, 12 pm - 10 pm; December 24, 12 pm - 9 pm; December 25, 11 am - 6 pm; December 26 - January 4, 10 am - 10 pm.

Cold Pool: December 22, 6 pm - 9 pm; December 23, 24, 12 pm - 9 pm; December 25, Closed; December 26 - January 4, 12 pm - 9 pm.

• Fairmont Hot Springs Hot Pool: 8 am - 10 pm daily.

For info: 345-6311.

New Video Releases This Tuesday

December 18th • 12 pm: Ladies Annual Christmas Luncheon, Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Lunch will be prepared

by Ann Riches, piano by Joan Manz. Cost is $25.00, wine $4.00. For info: 342-4423.

• 7 pm: C.V. Arts Cinefest presents “Souvenir of Canada”, held at the Toby Theatre. Tickets are $10, available at the door.

December 19th • 7 pm: Public Hearing, Bylaw Amendment No. 1941, Windermere Community Hall. For info: Rob Veg, 250-489-0314.

Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 pm - 2 pm To donate, mail a cheque to: Box 2141, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0.

OTHER

December 31st

Hot Springs Hours of Operation

December 16th

Columbia Valley Food Bank

• Little Miss Sunshine •Jet Li’s Fearless • My Super Ex-Girlfriend • Step Up • Lady In The Water • The Wicker Man • Invincible • All The Kings Men • Winter Passing • Scanner Darkly • American Pie: The Naked Mile • Conversations With Other Wo men Invermere Thrift Store Thursdays, 10 am - 4 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 1 pm - 4 pm • Flatware for rent “For All Occasions”, Invermere Health Care Auxiliary. $2.50/dozen, 300 place

• Radium Silver Fins Swim Club. See their website radiumsilverfins.bravehost.com. For info: 342-1369.

• Windermere Fire Department is seeking community minded volunteers. For info: Aaron at 342-3965.

SATURDAYS: • 5 pm - 8 pm: Public indoor rock climbing, JA Laird School gym, $5 drop in. For info: 342-9413 or 342-6232.

• Karaoke every Saturday night at The Sportsman’s Lounge. For info: 345-6346.

SUNDAYS: • 7 pm: Community Hymn Sing at the Alliance Church, second Sunday of the month. For info: 342-9580.

• 2 pm: Crib every Sunday at the Brisco Hall.

MONDAYS: • 7 pm: Duplicate Bridge, Invermere Seniors’ Hall, $2, visitors welcome. For info: Gerriann, 342-9893.

• 8:00 pm - 10 pm: Men’s basketball, DTSS. $20/yr, $2 drop-in. For info: crossfire@cyberlink.bc.ca, 3425588.

TUESDAYS: • 1 pm: Bridge and crib, Community Hall in Radium.

Everyone welcome. For info: Florence, 347-0084.

• 7 pm - 9 pm: Crossfire Youth Nights, Alliance Church, youth grades 7 - 11. For info: crossfire@cyberlink.bc.ca • 7 pm - 9 pm every Tuesday: ADHD Parent Support Group. Drop-ins welcome, School Board District Office. For info: Lynda, 342-9243, ext. 234.

WEDNESDAYS: • 7 pm Wednesdays: Archery, Invermere Community Centre, held by the Rod and Gun Club, $2.00.

• 7 pm - 9 pm: The Wannabe’s Art Studio, College of the Rockies. For info: Vivian, 341-3140.

THURSDAYS: • 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm: Pioneer Clubs, Alliance Church.

Ages 4 & 5, Grades 1, 2, 3, 4 - $60/child. For info: 342-8948, or pioneerclubs06@shaw.ca.

• 7 pm - 9 pm: Every Thursday, Second Winds Community Band, DTSS Band Room. All levels of woodwinds, brass, and percussion welcome. For info: 342-0100.

• Jam nights, The Sportsman’s Lounge. For info: 345-6346.

• 7 pm: Every 2nd & 4th Thursday: Bingo, Seniors’ Hall, 1309 14th Street. Welcome over 18. For info: 3426478.

FRIDAYS: • 6 pm: Meat draw and dancing at 7 pm, Royal Canadian Legion.

“What is integrated marketing?”

Integrated marketing is how you convey your look and message consistently across media such as web, print and advertising.

It also gives each spe-

cific media a business purpose. For example, a website may serve various functions, including sales gateway, customer support and image reinforcement. When your clients

visit your website after seeing your advertising or hearing your radio spot, they should find a continuation of your message—and a reason for going to your site.

Visit harrisonmckay.com/faq for more answers to frequently asked questions about marketing, advertising, and website design.

Ask Harrison your own question!

E-mail askharrison@harrisonmckay.com.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

Gabe Senger paints for the pleasure of others

�������

��������������� ������������ $25.00 to $35.00 Call Now to Confirm Size and Delivery Date Deliveries Available Until Dec.23

Call Dale Hunt @342-3569

Tis the season to celebrate at

Come join us for

Jagerfest Thursday – Friday – Saturday

Jagermeister $375 Contests/Prizes Snowboard Giveaway

By Sandra Kelly Special to The Pioneer Inside every artist there is a well of inspiration. In the case of painter Gabriel Senger, that well is a rich mix of good genes, a reverence for the natural world, and the true artist’s need for expression.

“It is a need,” Gabriel agrees.

“But ultimately I paint for the pleasure of others.”

Well said - and what a pleasure it is to view his work. Gabriel isn’t famous, but he should be. He has been painting since 1959, and his work is found in private and corporate collections across Canada.

He has been compared to Andrew Wyeth, the American master known for his detailed depictions of rural life. And, he has had high praise from none other than Robert Bateman. A few years ago, the

famed naturalist admired Gabriel’s oil painting titled Log Barn on the Athabasca River. He offered to critique it. Nervously, Gabriel accepted. “He told me I wasn’t charging enough for my work,” says the artist with fond remembrance.

Gabriel’s home in the Fort Point district of Invermere is a showcase for that work. Almost

every wall testifies to his fascination with rural Canadian history, particularly old farm buildings and houses. There are landscapes and portraits and still-lifes, too. Some are so finely detailed they give the impression of being photographs.

Intermingled with the paintings are framed photographs so luminous and textured they appear to be paintings. These too speak of Gabriel’s passion for history.

Gabriel’s studio is a treasure trove of works in various stages of completion—some framed and mounted, others stacked against the walls. Among the quieter works, a collage of seashells suggests a love of colour for its own glorious sake.

Life Time Warranty on all Blinds Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

THINK TANK PROJECT

The following requirements are needed by the Lions, in order to evaluate your project for possible funding. You may be contacted further for more information and input, so all of the information requested is important.

• Name of group • Contact person and phone number • Description of project • Estimated value of project with cost breakdown • Funding request to the Lions Club • Time period for project completion • What other contacts have been made for funding of this project • Why is the project needed in the community Please note that all projects must be in the hands of this committee by no later than December 31st. Our mailing address is Lake Windermere District Lions Club, Box 213, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 attention: Think Tank Committee.

Project review takes place from January - April, following the December 31st deadline. You may be contacted within this time for further input.

Projects which are selected by Lions for support will be contacted during May and June.

(250) 342 4406

TOY OF

THE

A Place for Calico Critters to call home.

HIGH COUNTRY Gabriel 250-342-9074

9 SHOPPING DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

WEEK

Calico Critters Town Home

60” X 50” original oil on canvas by

Continued on Page 13

The Monkey’s Uncle

Downtown Invermere 342-2515

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

December 15, 2006 Continued from Page 12 He inherited “a little talent” from his mother, enough to get him started on basic sketches at age ten.

At 12, his colored drawing of a plains native in full headdress took first prize at the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede.

He developed his style by studying the work of the old masters and reading art books. He learned basic composition and the techniques of foreshortening, scumbling and glazing. Oil is his medium of choice, but he works equally well with acrylics. He paints both from photographs and live subjects.

A spiritual man, he draws inspiration from his faith. “I love all of creation,” he says. “The natural world never ceases to amaze me.”

Into that world he often goes, camera and notebook in hand. Something that captivates him in the wilderness—a bird, a stream or a skyline—will turn up in one painting, something else in another. Thus, behind each painting there is a story.

Gabriel was born in Leader, Saskatchewan in 1931. He moved to Invermere from Calgary in 1994.

Three years ago he met his second wife, Lucile, an avid birder, at Valley Christian Assembly. He has two sons and four daughters, all of whom share those good genes. “They’re all very talented,” Gabriel says with pride.

To view Gabriel’s original paintings, or to commission a work, call him at 342-9074.

Monthly Independent Film Series presents

“How Canadian are You?”

Monday, Dec 18th Toby Theatre at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and are available at the door

What does ART mean to you?

Swans on the Columbia, by Gabriel Senger

Garrett’s Baked Goods Loaves • Cookies • Mufns Tarts • Cakes ur To Place Yo er rd Baking O

Garrett Brash 342-6746

Please donate to the charity of your choice.

Your Generosity Can Work Wonders

Box 991 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 www.valleyfoundation.ca

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

Thredz accepting auction items

By Pioneer Staff

Harrison McKay Communications has moved from its downtown location, next door to The Pioneer on 8th Avenue, to a spacious new office in Athalmer at 400 Laurier Street. The 1,550-square-foot new space features comfortable meeting spaces and a photography studio. The year-old company is a web, print and advertising design agency. Shown above are senior designer Will McKenzie, owner Harrison McKay and creative ccordinator Jennifer Woodburn.

Businesses or individuals wanting to donate cash or items for the silent auction benefit planned to raise money for Franci Sterzer on New Year’s Eve are asked to drop off their donations at Tiffany’s Thredz in downtown Invermere from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The mother of three was driving her children to sports school in Kimberley on November 20 when her car slid off the road south of Canal Flats, hit an embankment and rolled.

The three children survived with minor cuts and bruises but Mrs. Sterzer suffered major injuries including a broken neck with spinal cord damage. She is recovering in Foothills Hospital in Calgary and has now been moved out of Intensive Care.

Franci and her husband Karl operate Touch of Country Log Homes. They are very involved in youth hockey and Franci is a founding member of Canal Flats women’s hockey. Their children are in Grades 4, 7 and 8.

Proceeds from the New Year’s Eve dance, latenight buffet, casino and silent auction starting at 8 p.m. at the Canal Flats Community Hall will go towards helping the Sterzer family through the difficult months ahead.

Tickets are $25 each at Home Hardware, Trims and Treasures in Fairmont, and Fire Valley Restaurant in Canal Flats. A shuttle bus will be available from Invermere and Fairmont for the event.

For more information about the event or if you would like to donate items, contact Daphne Neal at 345-2173 or Dana Bjorkman at 421-3838.

It’s been a great year!

Harrison McKay Communications would like to say

THANK YOU

to all the clients and friends we’ve come to know on a first-name basis.

– Harrison, Will & Jennifer

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

December 15 , 2006

Christmas Recipes Holiday Antijitos

Christmas Pumpkin Loaf

Ingredients

3 cups flour 1 tsp baking soda 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 4 eggs 2 cups sugar 1 cup oil

(Substitute your favourite cheese or vegetables or add jalapeno peppers or hot sauce to personalize this dish) 12” soft tortilla shell 1 / 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup cream cheese 1 / 4 cup green peppers 1 / 4 cup red peppers 1 / 8 cup green onions

Preparation

1. Place the cream cheese in a mixing bowl and let it sit to soften at room temperature.

2. Finely chop the onions and peppers and then mix with cream cheese.

3. Lay the tortillas out on a flat work surface and use a spatula to spread a thin layer of the creamcheese mixture over the surface of the tortilla.

4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture.

5. Roll the tortilla into a tube shape and score the top of the bread six times.

6. In an oven pre-heated to 375o F bake for 4 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Remove the roll from the oven and cut into seven pieces.

8. Serve with sour cream or your favourite dipping sauce.

Serves 3.

Fast Festive Fudge

1 package semi-sweet chocolate 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or cashews Microwave semi sweet chocolate squares and condensed milk in glass bowl for one minute on high. Stir well and continue microwaving for another minute. Stir until chocolate is completely smooth. Add vanilla, salt & nuts.

Put into greased loaf pan and refrigerate until firm.

Yield: about 2 dozen candies.

2 cups pumpkin 1 cups chopped red & green candied cherries 1 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp allspice 1 cup walnuts

Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Add dry ingredients and mix until blended. Bake at 350 for one hour.

Veggie Wreath with Dip Check out this trick to make the staple of any party, the vegetable & dip platter, more festive looking!

Dip

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup sliced green onions 1/2 tsp chili powder 1/4 cup chopped ripe olives, well drained 1/2 tsp dill weed

Veggie Wreath

4 cups broccoli florets 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into strips 8 cherry tomatoes 1 medium turnip, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices 1 medium red bell pepper 1. Make dip: Combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, chili powder, dill weed and garlic powder in a small mixing bowl; mix well. Stir in onions and olives. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

2. Transfer dip to a serving bowl; place in the center of a 12-inch round serving plate.

3. Make vegetable wreath: Arrange broccoli, green bell pepper strips and tomatoes in a wreath shape around dip.

Using a small star cookie cutter, cut out stars from jicama slices; place over wreath. Cut red bell pepper into 5 pieces that form the shape of a bow; position on wreath.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

Christmas Recipes Cinnamon Buns - for Christmas Morning 20 frozen dinner rolls 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup instant vanilla pudding 1 - 2 tbsps cinnamon 1/4 cup melted butter 1. Butter a pan, and then place the frozen rolls in the pan 2. Add brown sugar, vanilla pudding and cinnamon over the frozen rolls and pour melted butter over all 3. Assemble just before you go to bed, cover with a tea towel and leave to rise overnight 4. In the morning, place in the oven for 35 minutes at 325º 5. Let sit for 5 minutes before turning over onto a serving platter with fresh fruit

Season’s Snowballs Serve these goodies while entertaining friends!

2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp salt 1 cup unsalted butter or margarine 1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 tbsp vanilla extract 1 cup finely chopped pecans 3/4 cup sifted confectioners sugar 1. Preheat the oven to 325°F; butter two baking sheets.

2. Sift the flour and salt together.

3. In a medium-size bowl, with an electric mixer on high, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Blend in the vanilla.

5. Using a wooden spoon, stir in the flour mixture, then the pecans.

6. Dust your hands with a little of the confectioners sugar and roll the dough into 1-inch balls.

7. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheets and bake for 25 minutes or just until light brown.

8. Transfer to racks to cool for 15 minutes, then roll in the confectioners sugar. These cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Do not freeze them.

Condo Cane Cookies 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter or margarine 1/2 cup plain or butter-flavoured shortening 1 cup confectioners sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp peppermint extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp liquid red food colouring 1. Adjust two racks to divide the oven into thirds. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Have two ungreased baking sheets ready.

2. In a small bowl, mix the sugar with the crushed candy; set aside.

3. With an electric mixer at medium-high speed, beat together the butter, shortening, confectioners sugar, egg, vanilla and peppermint extract until light and fluffy, 2 or 3 minutes.

4. With the mixer at medium-low speed, gradually add the flour, beating just until blended.

5. Remove half of the dough from the bowl and set aside on a sheet of waxed paper. Add the red food colouring to the dough left in the bowl and beat until evenly coloured.

6. For each candy cane, scoop 1 teaspoonful of the plain dough and the same amount of pink dough.

7. Roll each scoop between the palms of your hands to make a 4-inch rope. Twist the ropes together and shape into a candy cane.

8. As they are made, arrange the canes on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

9. Bake for about 9 minutes until firm to the touch and barely golden.

10. Reverse the baking sheets on the racks and from front to back once during baking. The moment the cookies come from the oven, sprinkle each one with the sugar-and-peppermint mixture.

11. Immediately transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

12. Store in a tightly covered container, separating the layers with sheets of waxed paper.

Makes about 48 cookies.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

December 15 , 2006

Christmas Recipes Seafood-Stuffed Red Snapper Surf ’s Up, Santa!

2 tbsps butter or margarine 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs 1 tbsp butter or margarine 1/4 cup chopped green onions 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 lb fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled, de-veined, cooked and coarsely chopped 1/4 lb fresh or frozen crabmeat or scallops, cooked and coarsely chopped 1 tbsp snipped fresh parsley 1/8 tsp salt 1/8 tsp pepper 1 1/2 lbs red snapper fillets or fish fillets, 4 - 6 equal portions 1. For stuffing, melt the 2 tablespoons butter or margarine in a skillet.

2. Add bread crumbs. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until bread crumbs are browned. Remove bread crumbs to a large bowl.

3. Melt the 1 tablespoon butter or margarine in the skillet.

Add green onions, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until tender. Add mixture to bread crumbs in bowl.

4. Add shrimp, crabmeat or scallops, parsley, salt and pepper to bowl. Toss gently.

5. Cut foil to form a double-thickness 18x12-inch rectangle. Lay fish fillets on the double thickness of foil. Mound stuffing on top of the fillets.

6. Fold up edges of foil to form a tray. In a covered grill, arrange preheated coals at either side of the grill. Test for medium heat above the center of the grill. Place the fish in foil in centre of grill rack. Lower grill hood and grill for 20 - 25 minutes or just until the fish flakes easily.

Peanut Brittle 2 3/4 cups granulated sugar 1/2 stick unsalted butter

2/3 cup water 1 1/2 cups lightly salted peanuts

1. Grease and line a 9 x 13 inch pan with foil 2. In a large saucepan over moderate heat, cook the sugar, butter and water for about 25 minutes.

3. Stir occasionally, until the mixture becomes a goldenbrown syrup then remove to a cool surface.

4. Stir in the peanuts and pour mixture into the pan, spreading nuts evenly.

5. Allow brittle to cool before breaking into bite sized pieces.

Store in a cool dry place.

Potato Pancakes 2 medium (1 pound) russet baking potatoes (peeled) 1/2 small yellow onion (peeled) 1 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme 1/2 tsp salt 1 large egg (beaten) 1/4 tsp black pepper 1 tbsp plain dry bread crumbs 2 tbsp unsalted butter or margarine 2 tbsp minced parsley 1. Preheat the oven to 200°F and place a large baking sheet in the oven to warm.

2. Using the shredding disc of a food processor or the coarse side of a hand grater, grate the potatoes and place in a bowl of ice water.

3. Grate the onion.

4. In a large bowl, combine the egg, bread crumbs, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Transfer the potatoes and the onion to a strainer, press them gently with your hand to squeeze out any excess liquid, and discard the liquid.

5. Add the potatoes and onion to the egg mixture and toss until thoroughly coated.

6. In a 12-inch non-stick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over moderate heat.

7. Using a scant 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, drop the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening each cake with a spatula to form 4-inch rounds.

Good Ol ’ Gingersnaps 3/4 cup margarine 1 cup white sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup molasses 3 cups flour 2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt 1 tbsp ginger 1 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp allspice 1/4 cup white sugar

1. Cream margarine, then add sugar, egg and molasses.

2. Mix all dry ingredients together and slowly add to the margarine mixture until well blended.

3. Form into balls and roll into sugar. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 14 minutes.

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

Christmas Recipes Naughty or Nice Nutchos

People Puppy Chow

300 gram package chocolate chips 300 gram package butterscotch chips 300 gram package peanut butter chips 2 cups salted, chopped peanuts 200 gram package crushed ripple potato chips

3 tbsp butter 300 gram milk chocolate chips 1 cup smooth peanut butter

Melt the chocolate, butterscotch & peanut butter chips in microwave on low. Remove from heat & add peanuts & crushed potato chips. Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper covered cookie sheets. Refrigerate until firm.

Sparkling Fruit Punch A fruity, nonalcoholic drink sure to be popular with both the kids and grown-ups!

Two 10-oz. packages frozen raspberries or strawberries 6 cups water 1 1/2 cups sugar 10 whole cloves 1/2 tsp ground cardamon

6 - 3” x 1/2” strips orange zest (orange part only) 1 vanilla bean, split 2 cups orange juice 2 cups club soda

1. In a large non reactive saucepan, bring berries, water, sugar, cloves, cardamom, zest and vanilla bean to a boil.

Reduce heat to moderately low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.

2. Strain through a fine sieve (do not press solids), and cool to room temp. Stir in orange juice. When ready to serve, stir in club soda. Serve over ice.

Holiday Chocolate Espresso Excellent treat after a long day out in the cold!

1/2 cup strong hot coffee 1 to 3 tsps sugar (optional) 1/2 cup cream 1 1/2 tsp unsweetened cocoa whipped cream 1 tbsp milk chocolate, grated cinnamon stick 1.

2.

3.

4.

In a large cup or mug, mix the coffee and sugar, if desired.

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the cream.

Add the cocoa and mix well.

Add the cream mixture to the coffee and top with a dollop of whipped cream and the grated chocolate.

Serve with a cinnamon stick.

12 oz box Crispix cereal 2 cups icing sugar

Melt butter in microwave, then add chocolate chips & peanut butter. Mix until smooth. Pour over cereal, mixing well. Put one cup of icing sugar in a large plastic or paper bag. Add cereal mix and shake well. Add remaining icing sugar and shake well again. Make sure there are no clumps.

Cheesy Holiday Tips The cheese tray is another essential at most gatherings, and with a few tips you can lay out a top notch platter for your guests.

One of the keys to making a fantastic cheese tray is variety. Select different ages, flavours, textures and colours: for instance, try a soft goat cheese, with a medium cheddar and sharp blue.

1. Remove soft, semi-firm, firm and hard cheeses from fridge 30 minutes before serving. Arrange cheese on a large platter, wooden board or tray. Avoid placing strong, pungent cheese next to mild cheese.

2. Cut firm cheese into bite-sized cubes, sticks, squares or triangles.

3. Serve fresh and soft cheese as whole blocks or rounds. Pair with a knife so guests can help themselves.

4. Garnish your tray with grape clusters, apples, pears, dried fruits, nuts or olives.

5. Serve with crackers of different shapes and textures, such as Sociables, Triscuits or Ritz.

6. Jazz up your cheese tray with a cheese appetizer, such as the Mini Cheese Balls.

The amount of cheese to serve depends on the type of function you are hosting. Approximately 100g per person should do it. Slightly more if you are hosting an appetizer party and slightly less if you are hosting a dinner party.

Wine/Cheese Combos

1. Match Red Burgundy, Chablis or Zinfandels with Brick, Marble or Monterey Jack 2. Pinot Noir, Merlot and Gewurztraimer go best with Swiss, Gouda, Brie or Havarti cheeses 3. If you’re into Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay or Beaujolais, try cheeses like Extra Old Cheddar or Blue.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer •19

December 15, 2006

The Old Zone

By Harold Hazelaar Invermere Canada is widely considered to be the birthplace of hockey. The Hockey Hall of Fame is in Toronto, Canada.

There is also a U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame for the players, coaches, etc. who are American born.

Copper City Saloon is the Home of the Oldtimers’ Hall of Fame.

Goalies were not allowed to fall to the ice to make saves, lest they be penalized. The rule was changed in 1917. Good thing, because all eight of our goalies would spend the entire game in the penalty box!

In the NHL during the 1960s, the league decided that home teams would wear white, while visiting teams would wear their dark jerseys. The reasoning behind this was that it would be more difficult to keep white uniforms clean while on the road. Anyone care to take a look inside the equipment bag of any one of us Oldtimers? I dare you!

Hockey is known for its violence, and many players have suffered serious injuries. Only one player,

however, was ever set on fire during a game. In a 1930 Quebec Junior Amateur Game, a flying puck that ignited a pack of matches in his pocket, setting his uniform on fire, hit goaltender Abie Goldberry. He was badly burned before his teammates could put the fire out. That is so bizarre, I can’t think of anything funny to say about it!

In the years 1926-30, the Detroit Red Wings name was Detroit Cougars. Even Nev Anderson and Gord Osterreid were only sparkles in their parents’ eyes way back then, never mind what their names would be!

The first ‘puck’ ever used in a hockey game was a frozen piece of cow dung. Let’s see Pieter Jansen or Buddy Dearin stop one of them!

The only two days of the year in which there are no professional sports games (MLB, NBA, NHL, or NFL) are the day before and the day after the Major League All-Star Game. And here we thought our league is special!

Basketball and hockey were both invented by Canadians. Duh!

This column is sponsored by

If a hockey puck traveling at over 50 mph hits you in the shoulder, it will hurt and leave a mark for over a week. Don’t try this at home, just trust me on this one!

In 1917, the Montreal Warriors of the National Hockey League had what is probably the worst run of bad luck in the history of hockey. After winning their opening game, they proceeded to lose games two through six, then their stadium burned down, ending the team’s existence. That’s almost as bad as the Warwick Wolves losing seven games in a row!

Just thought you might be interested.

Team

Wins Losses Ties Points

Hi-Heat Batters Lake Auto Mustangs Radium PetroCan Killer Tomatoes Dale Christian Mudders Inside Edge Black Smoke Valley Vision Vultures Warwick Wolves Huckleberry Hawks

12 9 7

1 3 5

0 1 1

24 19 15

4

4

5

13

4

7

2

10

4 4 3

7 8 10

2 1 0

10 9 6

Your Local

PAUL GLASSFORD

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

250-341-1395 Rockies West Realty

Independently owned and operated 230 Laurier Street DIRECTOR’S Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 PLATINUM E-mail: paul@rockieswest.com AWARD Website: www.PaulGlassford.com

Professionals Invermere

INVERMERE

Rockies West Realty

Independently Owned and Operated

1022B-7 Ave. th

Independently Owned and Operated DIAMOND AWARD

Independently Owned and Operated

Bernie Raven Representative

(250) 342-7415

braven@cyberlink.bc.ca

PAT BROWN-JOHN 342-1262

Daniel Zurgilgen

�������������������� Office: (250) 342-6505 Fax: (250) 342-9611

Invermere Office 526B – 13th Street Fairmont Office #4, Fairmont Village Mall Phone (250) 345-4000 Fax (250) 345-4001 www.rockymtnrealty.com pat@rockymtnrealty.com paul@rockymtnrealty.com

Representative

(250) 342-1612 landman@telus.net

PAUL ROGGEMAN 341-5300

Dedicated to all your real estate needs.

Ed English Cell: (250) 342-1194 edenglish@telus.net

Main Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Bus: (250) 342-6505 Fax: (250) 342-9611

www.edandjanslistings.

Jan Klimek Cell: (250) 342-1195 janklimek@telus.net

PRESIDENT’S GOLD AWARD

Ken Becker Sales Representative

We Sell Real Estate ������������������������������������

Bus: 250-345-0333 Fax: 250-345-6353 Res: 250-342-3599 Cell: 250-342-1161 Email: ken@rockieswest.com www.rockieswest.com www.kenbecker.com

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Call ���������or �������������� ������������������������ �����������������������������������������������������

5003 Hot Springs Road Fairmont, BC V0B 1L0

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

Council Briefs

CHRISTMAS BUREAU OF THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

Cardel request postponed

Did you put in your request?

Did you donate an angel gift at Dairy Queen or Fields?

Did you phone in your sponsorship to 342-6752?

Please remember to drop your hamper off Dec. 20 at Invermere Community Hall between 8am and 12 noon.

Pick up hampers and gifts Dec. 20 from 3pm until 7pm

Make a Christmas Wish Come True!

NOTICE: The Columbia Valley Pioneer advertising deadlines for the Christmas and New Year’s Issue is Monday, December 18th at 5:00 p.m.

10% 40% off MSRP

off pictures, mirrors,

all Fixtures and Lamps

and accessories, sports, scenery & wildlife themes Sale valid until December 23rd

District of Invermere Council postponed their decision on a proposal by Cardel Homes that the district vacate a portion of Ninth Avenue between the Stein Block, future site of Phase 2 of its Purcell Point condominium complex, and Strand’s Old House Restaurant.

The complicated proposal by the developer also called for a zoning variance and a land swap that would give back to Invermere a portion of the alley, for use as a public park.

Councillor Gerry Taft interrupted the vote to ask for clarification. All four council members expressed concern and confusion and were set to vote against Mayor Mark Shmigelsky, the lone backer of the proposal.

“I am stunned by the lack of clarity on this, especially since we worked on it for so long in committee, but the council’s will is the council’s will,” the mayor said, visibly frustrated.

Faced with a probable defeat of the proposal, which the mayor would have to reintroduce within 30 days or put on hold for at least six months, clarification was provided by the Chief Administrative Officer Chris Prosser.

Collectively and individually, council was concerned about what the vote meant, would they have another chance to discuss it and gather more information, amend the proposal or defeat it.

“I, too, am concerned,” Mr. Campsall commented. “I know the staff worked hard on this, but some of the issues have become clouded. Suddenly the whole thing becomes complicated.

I, frankly, find it rather confusing.”

Councillor Taft said he had received a lot of input on the topic. Ray Brydon let an “I told you so” moment pass without reminding the council of his warn-

ing two weeks ago that the proposed land swap would “raise some hackles.”

Mr. Brydon called for a comprehensive plan for the entire block, including the location of the district office.

The council agreed to accommodate Strand’s owner Tony Wood’s request to stall the vote until he returns from a trip abroad and resolved to revisit the matter at its February 13 meeting.

Coal plant ban approved

The council’s Green Bloc defeated a minority challenge that would add a qualifier to Councillor Campsall’s proclamation to Victoria, calling for a strict ban on the construction of coal burning power plants.

Councillor Brydon, backed by Mayor Shmigelsky, argued to include a line in the proclamation that read, “unless it can be proven that coal burning plants will have no negative effects on plants or people.”

Councillor Taft said that adding the line would water down the intent. Mr. Campsall argued that the intent of the motion was rooted in the present, not the future. Councillors Campsall, Taft and Sarah Bennett voted to approve and adopt the proclamation as written.

No more loaned chairs

The council denied a request by the Rotary Club to borrow the District’s tables and chairs to use at its annual Loop the Lake event. Council voted to end the long-time practice of loaning out tables and chairs in hopes of preserving the new stock.

“These new tables and chairs are a community asset,” Councillor Bob Campsall said. “I don’t think they should be going out of the Community Hall.” Council unanimously agreed.

New Stock

SPOT

of LED Xmas Lights indoor/outdoor

8B - 492 Arrow Rd Invermere

WATER CO. LTD.

N EO G V SA NIN A CLE OSTS C

Save up to 95% energy costs

341-3483

100,000 hours of light 70 light strings 6” spacing

HOLIDAY HOURS: December 23 , 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Closed December 24 , 25 & 26 • December 30th, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. • Closed December 31st & January 1st rd

th

th

th

• Drinking Water Systems • Water Softeners • Whole House or Specialised Filtration

Don’t know what to get your spouse for Christmas?

How about a water or R.O. lter system from Aquair Water, your water specialists.

Call (250) 342-5089

385 Laurier Street Invermere, BC

THE DEALS

Pioneer Classifieds

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

December 15, 2006

Pioneer at Las Vegas wedding!

Brendan Donahue Investment Advisor Phone: 342-2112

GIC Rates cashable 90 days 1 yr 2 yrs 3 yrs 4 yrs 5 yrs

Jenn Wiebe and Ryan Karl of Invermere took their vows at the Little Chapel of Flowers in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 6, 2006. Ryan, son of Mary Christensen and Dan Mennear of Invermere, has his own business called A.R.K. Concrete Ltd.; and Jenn, daughter of Jerry and Susan Wiebe of Kenora, Ontario, tends bar at Bud’s Bar & Lounge. The couple also has a three-month-old son named Jaxson Karl.

The couple spent their week-long honeymoon in Vegas where they enjoyed Cirque du Soleil, among other things. Congratulations, Jenn and Ryan!

as of Dec. 11th 3.85% 4.06% 4.05% 4.10% 4.15% 4.15% 4.20%

New High Interest Savings Accounts No minimum balances 3.85% No fees Interest calculated daily, paid monthly Redeemable at any time RRSP and RRIF eligible

Rates subject to change without notice.

Subject to availability.

Sales: 342-2536 • 1-866-342-2536

www.lakeviewmeadows.net

CopperSide ~ Luxury 2 & 3 bedroom condos

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

HERE TO SERVE YOU RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ESSO

NEW

Automotive Repairs

Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals

7 days a week

GAS • PROPANE • DIESEL

• 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

Freight & Passenger Depot

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

(250) 347-9726

CLUB TOWING

Sewer/Drain Cleaning

����������������������������������� ���������������������������

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Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357 • POOLS • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • FIREPLACES • BBQ�S • 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

Bennett Construction Growing with the Tradition of Quality

• Framing • Renovations • Decks • Exterior Finishing

Kristoffer Bennett (250) 341-5030

krisbennettconstruction@hotmail.com

Invermere Electrical Services • • • • •

Reasonable rates Residential - Commercial Electric furnace and hot water tank repair Maintenance and service Central vacuum systems

��������������������� Ñ���������������É Ñ�������������������������É Ñ���������������É Ñ��������������É Ñ������������������������É ��������������������������������

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Need Blinds?

Interior World

window fashions

For all your electrical needs call:

Free Estimates!

(250) 342-8878

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

or e-mail smpostle@telus.net

������������������������ will help you stay on top of your world Shizu E. M. Futa, Touch for Health Level 2 touchingtranquility@yahoo.com

����������������������������

Mustard Seed Health Foods

SHARON MUIR

#103 Parkside Place, 901 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC

Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fridays 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Please phone (250) 342-2552 for an appointment

250-341-1545

the

Jacob Watchel Construction

located in the ‘Little Big Mall’

Renovations • Additions • Finishing • References

Quality craftsmanship for over a quarter century B6 Juniper Heights Invermere, BC V0A 1K2

Phone: 250-341-3616 Fax: 250-341-3617

Sunower Café Dowtown Canal Flats

• Road Building • Land Clearing • Logging • General Excavating

Soup•Fresh Deli Sandwiches•Baked Goods Fresh Ground Coffee•Teas•Hot Chocolate

Karlene LePan, Owner/Operator

250•270•0401

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

December 15, 2006

HERE TO SERVE YOU Protect your property from theft and vandalism

Residential and Commercial Lighting

Call today (250) 688-HAWK (4295)

Dan Emms General Manager

P.O. Box 1079 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

valleyhawksecurity@shaw.ca

Daily & Nightly Mobile Patrols in the Valley Fast Response to your alarms Property checks

• Fully marked mobile patrol unit • Professional Uniformed Security Ofcer • Residential • Commercial • New Homes • New Condos • Construction Sites Reasonable Rates Keep your seasonal home or condo insurance valid

Ph: 250.342.1666 dan@valleylighting.ca www.valleylighting.ca

Call to set up an appointment today!

•

Bus: (250) 342-6336 Fax: (250) 342-3578 Email: isr@telus.net Website: www.is-r.ca

Rug Cleaners •

Residential & Commercial • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Flood Restoration • Window Tinting

Jason Roe

RR #4, 2117 -13 Ave. Invermere, BC V0A 1K4 jtroe@telus.net

403 - 7th Avenue Invermere, BC

INVERMERE GLASS LTD.

shapeupinvermere.com .com

Valley Fitness Centre • 722 14th Street, Invermere

NEW COMPUTER SYSTEMS HARDWARE AVAILABLE COMP T1A CERTIFIED COMPUTER TECHNICIAN CERTIFIED SOFTWARE SUPPORT SPECIALIST CERTIFIED MCP (MICROSOFT CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL)

Telephone: 342-3659

Serving the Valley for over 11 years • #3, 109 Industrial Road #2, Invermere

VFC

(250) 342-2131

Bob & Bryan would like to thank all their customers for their patronage, and wish everyone a Happy & Safe Holiday!

Avion

SERVICE AND REPAIR ALL COMPUTER SYSTEMS

Cell: (250) 341-1779

valley valleyfitness valleyfitnesscentre centre

Season’s Greetings

RUSS SALBERG

•Auto • Home • Commercial • Mirrors • Shower Doors • 27 years glass experience Jeff Watson

Bus: (250)342-9692 Res: (250) 342-7327 Fax: (250) 342-9644 Cell: (250) 342-5241

“See you there!”

Construction Ltd. CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORS

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

INVERMERE

STEVE GUTSCHE, Project Manager

HEAD OFFICE Columbia Valley District Phone: (250) 342-9866 Phone: (403) 287-0144 Fax: (250) 342-9869 Fax: (403) 287-2193 Email: sgutsche@avionconstruction.com #200, 6125 - 11 Street S.E. www.avionconstruction.com Calgary, AB T2H 2L6

Fine Homeservices

WE PRINT FOR THE VALLEY PUROLATOR DEPOT

342-2999

VACUFLO (250) 342-9207

Hi - Heat

READY MIX CONCRETE Concrete Pump • Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane Service Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

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

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24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

HERE TO SERVE YOU Lambert

Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd.

HOME • GARDEN • PAINT

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

            

Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Alterations Repair • Bachelor Service

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

Are your accounts not reconciled?

Are you paying late fees & penalties?

Are you behind on invoicing?

I can help.

BEAR  

  

THE CENTER OF REAL ESTATE ACTION IN THE PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Homefront Essentials

Bookkeeping & Paperwork

Let me handle your bookkeeping & paperwork while you work on your business.

SECURITY CHECKS QUALITY PAINTING SNOW SHOVELLING CERTIFIED HORTICULTURIST

Elizabeth Shopland

250-342-8978 REGISTERED & INSURED

WE WELCOME YOU IN STYLE

Kane Co.

We will heat your home before you arrive for your winter holiday, start your fireplace, and tidy up!

Experienced housesitter and home security while you are away.

Weekly or monthly cleaning services.

Gayle Dougall

Call for price list and appointment.

Phone: 345-6594 email:bearbooks@shaw.ca

Phone: 250-270-0495

LAMBERT-KIPP

A.R.K. Concrete Ltd.

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

Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

4966 Fairmont Frontage, Fairmont Hot Springs

Come in and browse our giftware

Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

345-6600

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

342-6612

INVERMERE BARBERS 507B - 7th Avenue Invermere, BC (beside the laundromat) Floor Covering & Cabinets Blinds & Paints

Phone: (250) 341-3240 Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 3 pm Closed Sunday and Monday

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

No Appointment Necessary

Residential • Decorative Concrete Floors, Decks, Patios & Sidewalks

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

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

WINDERMERE 342-6805

Great Selection of:

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

For all your interior decorating needs.

Complete Automotive Repairs

Tamara Osborne Brenda McEachern.

Phone /Fax

345-6422

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

December 15, 2006

Christmas

Portabella adds more dining area

CLEANING SPECIAL CARPET CLEANING

Nick and Judy Gibbs have reopened Portabella Restaurant in Invermere after a lightning five-week renovation that extended the dining room about eight feet out onto the front patio. “The only complaint we ever got was that the place was too small and couldn’t accommodate more people,” Nick said.

Chunky hand-carved wood trim by Windermere artist Brian Hoffos adorns the tops of the walls and ceiling above four additional tables. Nick credits local contractor Kris Newman for bringing the project in on time. “Hats off to Chris.

He did a heck of a job and Town Hall was a lot of help, too.”

Box 662, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 5 rooms 4 rooms 3 rooms 2 rooms 1 room Stairs 1 Hallway

CARPETS

179 149 $ 119 $ 89 $ 59 $ 2.50 each free $ $

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Sofa Sofa & Chair Sofa & Loveseat Sofa, Chair, Loveseat or Sectional

139 169 $ 199 $ $

239

$

341-5649

SENIORS’ DISCOUNT Serving the Columbia Valley with...

Reputation - Trust Quality Workmanship

MOONLIGHT MADNESS Friday, December 15

th

SAAN will be open till 11 p.m.

7:00 p.m. Kids Polar Fleece Reg. $1299 Sale $500 7:30 p.m. Prints (pictures) Reg. $999 Sale $500 8:00 p.m. Men’s Sleep Pants Reg. $799 Sale $3.00 8:30 p.m. Ladies Black Eldorado Denim Reg. $1999 Sale $1000 These have limited quantities and only 4 per customer, great specials to kick off the moonlight madness event.

Friday, Dec. 15th, 9 p.m. – 11 p.m. & Saturday, Dec. 16th, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

AXE the TAX

Save the taxes on your purchase.

SAAN Invermere

December 15, 2006

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

This holiday season, don’t drive drowsy

The times when most sleep-related car accidents occur is between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. (understandably), but also between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

You may only fall asleep for two or three seconds, but a car travelling at highway speeds can travel the length of a football field in that time.

In order to maintain alertness, talk to other passengers, listen to talk radio rather than music, and keep front passengers awake, too. Plan on breaks about every 100 miles or every two hours. Rolling down the window isn’t as effective as pulling over for a 15-minute power nap.

Lakeside concert to benefit food bank

By Sandra Kelly Special to The Pioneer For the sixth year in a row, the Lakeside Pub in Invermere will host a benefit concert for the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

This year’s concert gets under way at six p.m. on Sunday, December 17th. Local musicians John Cronin, Kurt Reichel, Deb Ede, Gord Askey, Bud DeCosse, Bruce Childs, Grant and Stacy Neville, and Mike and Fraser Smith will all perform.

The event is being coordinated by Lakeside Pub owner Guido Hochheiden and Barb Kloos. Bill Cropper, “The Blind Guy,” will serve as the master of ceremonies. Last year’s concert raised $1,475 and six bags of food for the food bank.

“It think it’s important that we do this every year to help people in need,” said Guido. “It’s a great thing.

Every year we raise more money than the year before.”

As usual, there will be no cover charge at the door, he said. Instead, people are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food items. Bill Cropper will take off his Santa hat and pass it around several times during the evening, for cash donations. Debit and credit card donations will also be welcomed.

Food bank coordinator Cathy McGrath said the charity receives donations of cash and food throughout the year from generous individuals and businesses.

The local schools help out by staging a food drive. “We are well supported in this community.”

At its recent Feed the Town event, Copper Point Golf Course served 500 hungry diners and raised $6,000 for the food bank. “Copper Point did a great job,” said Cathy.

She commented that the food bank is seeing a trend toward more cash than food donations. “That’s great. We appreciate both.” She stressed that the food bank needs both kinds of donations year-round, not just at Christmas time.

The food bank is situated behind the library and is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. The phones operate all week. To donate, call 342-0850.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

December 15, 2006

Good neighbour lights up the lane

By Sandra Kelly Special to The Pioneer If Invermere had a neighbour of the year award, this year’s trophy would go to Kim Ostere.

In the Lochend Lane condominium complex behind Sobeys where we both live, Kim is known, affectionately, as Martha (after Martha Stewart, of course). She whips up gourmet feasts and invites all the neighbours over. She cleans house to a fanatical standard. She gardens year-round and can get dead twigs to bloom.

Sometimes she combines those blooms with fruits and leaves and other flourishes to create stunning table centerpieces. She arranges them in ceramic pots made by her husband Glenn Lefley and then delivers them, free of charge, up and down the lane.

One day last summer I came home to find the pots of dead peonies missing from my porch. Without being asked, she had taken them home to revive them.

They lived through November.

She is the ultimate good neighbour. We hold her in awe.

Last week, she outdid herself. On a cold, dark night I caught her stringing greenery along the rails and around the posts on my front porch. I asked what she was doing. “It’s Christmas,” she said, her breath fogging the air. “I’m doing your porch.”

Mine and everyone else’s, it turned out. On her own time and at her own expense, she had made cedar garlands and wreaths for every Lochend house. While we watched, amazed, she threaded pin lights through the garlands and lit up the lane.

Kim’s skill is no accident. A certified florist, she trained with Leo Nugteren, the European trained master who owns Willowhaven Flower Shop in Canmore. “He is absolutely brilliant,” she says. “I learned so much from him.”

Willowhaven serviced 30 to 50 corporate clients a day, she says, including all the major hotels in the Bow Valley corridor.

During her five years at the shop, Kim designed the floral arrangements for countless weddings, conferences, celebrity events and parties. Every day she created pretty desk arrangements for the shop’s many business clients.

WV

INDERMERE ALLEY �����������

Windermere Valley Pro Shop

CHRISTMAS SALE

40 30 20 %

OFF

All Men’s & Ladies Clothing

%

%

OFF

All Golf Balls & Gloves

OFF

All Golf Clubs

Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Saturday • 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

(December 12–16 & 19–23) 1881 Windermere Loop Rd., Windermere • Ph: 342-3004

NOTICE: The Columbia Valley Pioneer advertising deadlines for the Christmas and New Year’s Issue is Monday, December 18th at 5:00 p.m.

“Something fresh to make their work day just a little brighter,” she says.

Kim was born and raised in Surrey. She moved to Canmore in 1987. She and Glenn met as participants in the same pool players’ league. They moved to Invermere last March with their lovely15-year-old daughter Mia. Since they arrived, Kim has been helping Glenn, a carpenter, to frame houses. By this time next year, he’ll be going it alone when she opens her own flower shop.

The shop will carry all the usual flowers and accessories plus unique gift items, including Glenn’s pottery.

Kim will get all her greenery from Kootenay Bough and Cone, she says. “They have excellent product. I’m so glad they’re here.”

Events will be a major thrust for her. “Designing is my passion, so Willowhaven was a paradise for me. I want to do the same quality of work here, and I think there is going to be a huge demand for it. I can’t wait to get going.”

For now, she has made this holiday season just a little brighter for the folks on Lochend Lane.

Merry Christmas, Kim.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 15, 2006

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS OBITUARY Katharine Reimer 1912 - 2006 Katharine was a longtime member of the Alliance Church, involved herself in craft sales, loved knitting and crocheting, and making stuffed animals.

She is survived by her sons Aaron Reimer, Joh Reimer, Ken (Jeannie) Reimer; daughters Kathy Chapman, Liz Stewart, Jessie Reimer; many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Katharine is predeceased by her husband Aron Reimer, son Jacob Reimer, and daughter-inlaw Mildred Reimer. The service was held at the Alliance Church December 12 at 3:30 pm.

STORAGE New•House Multi-storage, various sizes available, now with climate controlled units. Call 342-3637.

Fenced storage in Canal Flats on Hwy 93/95. RVs, boats, autos, ski-doos, etc. 250-349-8212.

OFFICE SPACE Professional office space for rent in Invermere. Large view office with negotiable services. Please call 342-9450 for more info.

SHARED ACCOMMODATION Shared: Available immediately, N/S, N/P, laundry, cable, private phone included. $500/month, 342-4811.

HOMES FOR RENT Invermere: 3 bedroom, 2 full bathrooms. Close to downtown, partially furnished, W/D, N/S, $1200/month plus utilities.

Available January 1st, 3427074.

2 bedroom house, cable, w/d included. Walking distance to downtown, beach, and shops.

Call 342-5007.

SUITES FOR RENT CONTRACTORS: self-contained cabins by the week or month, 250-345-6365, Fairmont Bungalows.

Athalmer: 1 bedroom, $750/ month + utilities, or 2 bedroom $850/month + utilities.

Available Dec.15/Jan.1, long term only. N/S, N/P, serious inquiries with references to knl_hatt@hotmail.com or Box 35, Athalmer, BC V0A 1A0.

1 bedroom, N/S, N/P, Stein Apartments, 1 block from downtown.

Available immediately, 342-6912.

1 bedroom basement suite in Invermere, Wilder subdivision.

W/D, available December 1st.

342-6842.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

FOUND

CAREERS

2005 VW Jetta TD1 (diesel station-wagon), 5-speed, 25,000km, sun-roof, leather, winter and summer tires, $25,000. Call Peter 342-1073, 342-0665, or pjpank@telus.net.

Black male neutered cat found, white spots on front paws, very friendly. Anyone willing to give him a home? Phone 347-9093.

Looking for framing crews or carpenters, approx. $10/sq.ft. to start immediately in the Invermere area. Serious crews only, 403-830-8434.

2000 Ford Explorer Limited. 8 cylinder, all leather interior, power everything, loaded, backup sensor, universal trailer hitch & electrical. 8 tires including new set of Toya Snow tires, roof rack.

Exceptional condition, Dealer serviced. 128,000km, asking $15,000. Phone 250-342-9436.

$10,000,000

in vehicle inventory.

Go to www.cranbrookdodge.com

to view complete inventory.

MISC. FOR SALE HAY, top quality round bales, alfalfa grass. Call Elkhorn Ranch 342-0617.

Support Rockies Hockey - Firewood: pine, mixed, and birch. 342-6908.

Premium Christmas trees to your door, $25 to $35. Call to confirm size and delivery date. Deliveries until December 23. Call Dale at 342-3569.

White refrigerator w/bottom freezer, 3 years old, excellent condition, $500; beer fridge, $100; two electric ranges, white, $200 & $100; newer oak dining room table and six chairs, $500.

342-0665, pjpank@telus.net.

WANTED

LAND FOR SALE New lots along Crescentwood coming. Commercial lots available NOW for less! Acreage West of town - Edgewater Developments 347 9660, edgeh2o@telus.net

We are looking for lumber yard and store staff who are energetic, outgoing, self-motivated, fast learners and work well with others. Bring resume to Ace Hardware.

F/T and P/T positions open for ski season with TNT Cleaning Service.

Starting wage $12/hr, D.O.E. For more information call 342-0799.

Fairmont Creek Property Management is looking for housekeeping staff. Mature, responsible person with at least 6 months experience. $11/hr wage, full time, year round employment. Medical & Dental benefits and staff housing is provided. Please call Carmen at 250-345-6116.

RECREATIONAL FOR SALE WANTED TO BUY: Logging Housekeeping required part1996 Tundra Ski-doo, excellent shape, low mileage, asking $3400, 342-3935.

‘04 900 King Cat snowmobile, $8,000 OBO; ‘01 800 RMK snowmobile, $3,500 OBO. Phone 347-0035 or 342-1377.

MAJESTIC VIEWS 15  2600 RIVER ROCK WAY, CASTLEROCK

Mountain & lake views, fully furnished, 3bdrms/2.5baths, furnishings incl.,granite countertops. Move right in and enjoy.

$519,900 For more information or to view call....

342-5935 or toll free 1-866-501-8326 Your Listing or Purchase will support the Childrens Miracle Network.

SERVICES CHRISTMAS TREES: Locally grown, sheared and pruned trees. Prices depend on size. Call Bob Mitchell, Brisco, 250-3463275. Visit us at the crossroads December 2,3,8,9,15, and 16.

Residential/Vacation Properties Maintenance & Repairs Dependable - Fully Insured

JIM ROBERTSON

DK Rice - 342-5935

Windermere 342-9022

dkrice@remax.net

Rob Rice - 341-5935 robrice@remax.net

www.TeamRice.ca

truckloads of birch firewood for the C.V. Rockies Hockey Club woodlot. Phone Leo 342-3134 or 342-1177.

Independently Owned and Operated

time at the Chalet Europe Motel in Radium. Good wages, call Arlene at 347-9305.

Looking for siding crews to start immediately in the Invermere area, serious crews only. Immediate pay, 403-830-8434.

Exciting Employment Opportunity for Early Childhood

Educators and Infant Toddler Educators. Sonshine Childrens’ Centre in Invermere, BC, is looking for energetic, dynamic, and creative people to join our team. Qualifications include a valid ECE certificate and license to practice, valid First Aid Certificate, and a successful criminal records check. To apply please submit a cover letter and resume with references to Rebecca Enns, Box 280, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0, fax 250-342-9575, or e-mail rjenns@shaw.ca. The closing date for these positions is December 20, 2006. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE: Tuesdays at noon Phone: 341-6299 Fax: 341-6229 Email: upioneer@telus.net

All classified ads must be prepaid by cash or cheque unless client has an existing account.

Please read your ad over carefully the first day it comes out to ensure the information is correct. If you should find an error in your ad please let us know immediately by calling 341-6299. The Columbia Valley Pioneer is not responsible for errors appearing beyond the first insertion. The newspaper’s responsibility, if any, for errors of any kind is limited to the amount paid for that advertisement. We reserve the right to censor, re-classify, revise, edit or reject any advertisement not meeting our advertising standards.

We supply part and service FOR ALL MAKES of: • snowmobiles • motorcycles • quads

December 15, 2006

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

Tips for a green Christmas Submitted by Wildsight Everyone seems to agree that the holiday season has turned into more of a frenzy of over-consumption than a religious celebration. This is not only hard on the pocketbook but also takes a heavy environmental toll. Every time we buy something new we contribute to the deforestation required to create the paper, the mining for the metals and the burning of all the fossil fuels required to produce and transport it to us, which results in greenhouse gases that lead to climate change. So what can we do about it??

Most of all . . . reduce! Buy less “stuff.”

• Consider giving non-material gifts: coupons for services like babysitting, yard work, massages, housecleaning, a year’s worth of curbside recycling, a month or more of an organic food bin delivery; donations or volunteer time to charities, gym or swim or ski passes; memberships in local societies (Nature Park, Wildsight, National

Park pass), gift certificates (so they’ll actually get something they want) • Create homemade gifts, decorations and wrapping.

• Use gift bags, decorative tins, baskets, bags, scrap paper for wrapping.

• Give jazzed-up versions of “consumptibles” like preserves, baking or toiletries that people need to buy anyway.

• Buy locally-made (or at least locally sold) items to reduce the amount of energy needed to transport it and support the local economy.

• Draw names for gifts in large families or groups.

• Pay attention to the amount of packaging and avoid over packaged items.

• Think of natural gifts like a seedling to plant.

• Consider the option of “no presents” (yes, it is an option).

Next . . . reuse!

• Check out our many excellent second-

RECYCLE THAT WRAPPING PAPER All paper-based wrapping paper can be recycled in the yellow bins. The only wrapping paper that cannot be recycled is foil based paper.

Recyclable Materials: � � � � � � �

Paper based gift wrap Cards Envelopes Gift tags Tissue paper Cardboard boxes Brown shipping/packaging

Non-Recyclable Materials: � � � � � �

Foil based wrapping paper (shiny paper) Envelopes or cards with foil lining Bows and Ribbons Aluminum foil, pie plates, roasting pans Styrofoam of any sort (even if it’s marked with a #6) Broken bulbs or any decorations

On December 25th alone, over 30,000,000 bags of garbage will be put out in front of Canadian households.

Please recycle.

hand stores, especially for kid’s gifts – you might be surprised at the quality.

• If you can’t use something yourself, consider bringing it to a consignment or thrift store so someone else might.

• Do a “basement gift exchange” at the staff party this year.

• Reuse gift wrap, bags, ribbons and last year’s cards for this year’s gift tags.

• Consider informal exchanges of kid’s toys and books among friends and family.

Finally . . . recycle!

• After you’ve sorted out what you might possibly reuse next year, make sure the rest finds its way to the recycling bins.

• With all the money you save this year you can now give a gift that really counts: a donation to a local charity or a chance to hire someone to do the housework while you spend some time with the kids, knowing that you’ve also helped to ensure that when they grow up there will still be an environment.

Merry Christmas from Wildsight!

If everyone in Canada wrapped just 3 gifts in reused paper or gift bags, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 hockey rinks

KNOW YOUR GLASS Just one ceramic mug thrown in the glass recycling bin can cause the recycling plant in Airdrie to reject our entire load.

�

That means 80,000 pounds of glass have to be landfilled because of one mug!

The only glass that can go in the glass recycling bins is food-grade container glass. That means things like jam jars, salsa jars, pickle jars, and beverage bottles.

The following should NEVER go in the glass bins: � Dishes, glasses or cups of any sort � Ceramics, pyrex, pottery � Picture frames � Decorative glass (like candlestick holders) � Window glass or windshields � Lightbulbs

When the going gets tough

Columbia Valley Trading Co. Outdoor Clothing & Gear Invermere, BC

342-3366

WHAT TO DO WITH BATTERIES Regular alkaline batteries cannot be recycled and should be thrown out as they are used up. Never store your dead batteries.

Rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, can be easily recycled once they no longer hold a charge.

Columbia Valley drop off locations include: �� Invermere Home Hardware �� Selkirk TV Today’s rechargeables can be recharged up to 1,000 times and last between 2 and 5 years. And, while they initially cost more, rechargeables will save you money.

Over a 3-year period, using alkaline batteries will cost 60-times more than using rechargeables!!!

HOLIDAY HOURS Columbia Valley Landfill December 24 December 25 December 26-30 December 31 January 1 January 2

9:00am-4:00pm Closed 9:00am-6:00pm 9:00am-4:00pm Closed 9:00am-4:00pm

Note: The Columbia Valley RDEK Office will be closed December 25th, December 26th and January 1, 2006.

December 15, 2006

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Leadership students at J. Alfred Laird School in Invermere sold their used books and toys at a Recycle Christmas Sale hled in the school library to raise money. Prices ranged from Regional District of East Kootenay 19 – 24 Avenue South Cranbrook, BC B1C 3H8 Phone: (250) 489-2791 Fax: (250) 489-3498 E-mail: rdek@rdek.bc.ca

25 cents to $5. With the proceeds, the leadership group purchased two gifts for the Angel Tree at Dairy Queen and donated $100 to the Valley Food Bank.

Need Blinds? Best Quality Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE BYLAW AMENDMENT – WINDERMERE The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by Brian and Anne O�Leary to amend the Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will rezone a portion of the subject property to accommodate the creation of one lot approximately 0.8 ha in size. The property is located at 1710 Windermere Loop Road in Windermere as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 1941 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay - Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 192, 2006 (Windermere / O�Leary)” will amend the zoning designation for part of District Lot 7154, Kootenay District, Except Plans 5506, 6208 and NEP71659 from A-2, Rural Residential (Country) Zone to SH-1, Small Holding Residential Zone.

The public hearing will be held at:

WINDERMERE COMMUNITY HALL 4726 North Street Windermere BC TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2006 at 7:00 pm

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area F, Electoral Area G, and the District of Invermere.

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 ofce 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.

An application has been received by the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch, Victoria, B.C., from Stone Creek Golf Courses Limited Partnership.

The proposed location for the licence is 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail in Invermere. This licence class permits all types of liquor to be served.

Proposed hours of sale are between 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday to Sunday. Person capacity will be limited to 45 persons inside with no exterior patio. The applicant has also requested a beverage cart and kiosk to sell and serve liquor on the playing area of the golf course.

Residents and owners of businesses located within a 0.5 mile (0.8 km) radius of the proposed site may comment on this proposal by writing to: THE GENERAL MANAGER c/o Senior Licensing Analyst LIQUOR CONTROL and LICENSING BRANCH PO Box 9292 Victoria, BC V8W 9J8 PETITIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Andrew McLeod, Manager Planning & Development Services December 1, 2006

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Notice of Intent RE: Liquor Control and Licensing Act Application for a Liquor Primary Licence

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING

This notice is not an interpretation of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Rob Veg, Planning Technician, at 250 489–0314 or toll free at 1–888-478-7335.

9 SHOPPING DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

To ensure the consideration of your views, your letter must be received on or before January 8, 2007. Your name(s) and address must be included.

Please note that your comments may be made available to the applicant or local government ofcials where disclosure is necessary to administer the licensing process.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

December 15, 2006

FAITH

Valley Churches

Advent means “coming”

By Fraser Coltman Valley Christian Assembly When I was a school child the game I loved to play at recess was “What Time is it, Mr. Wolf.”

When my children were younger, I played it with some of them. In the game, one person plays the part of the wolf with back turned to the group while the rest of the players line up several yards away and call out “What time is it, Mr. Wolf?” The wolf calls out a time and the players take that number of paces towards the wolf. This repeats until the wolf calls out “lunch time!” and turns to chase and tag as many of the players as possible. I loved the thrill of drawing closer and closer to the wolf, knowing what was coming without knowing when.

For many Christians, this is the season of Advent.

“Advent” means “coming.” Advent is a time when we meditate on the fact that God is present with us. He comes to us.

In our Advent worship services, we read passages from the Old Testament that promised that God would send a great Savior into our world. We believe that those promises were fulfilled in the little town of Bethlehem where Jesus was born. We remember and rejoice that Jesus came into world to so long ago

to help and save us. We praise God for keeping His promises.

In this season, we are also reminded that Jesus continues to be with us, for we believe that after His death on the cross for our sins, Jesus was raised from the dead. He has triumphed over sin and death for us, and He shares that victory with us as He forgives our sins and inspires us to live lives of trust in God and love for other people. Jesus came to us when he was born a babe in Bethlehem, and He still comes to us through His story written in the New Testament and preached in our worship services.

Our focus in Advent is also forward-looking. Jesus did not come only to save individuals from sin and death. He did not come to establish a private religion for a few spiritually-minded people. He came to bring a new world into existence! Before ascending to heaven He promised that He would come again one more time to this world to bring an end to all that ails it, to judge the living and the dead, and to usher in a new, eternal age for God’s creation.

We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we trust His promise that He will come again. In these days of Advent, we prepare ourselves for that day, not by selling our possessions and waiting on some mountain, but by taking stock of our attitudes and behaviors, measuring them next to the standard of God’s commands, confessing our sins, and relying on Jesus for forgiveness and help to be more faithful to God and kind to those around us.

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ADVERTISING DEADLINES

The Pioneer office will be closed December 25th to January 1st.

Deadlines for the December 22nd and 29th issues are Monday, December 18th at 5:00 p.m. including Classifieds.

Sunday School, for ages 3 to grade 7 during the morning service.

Senior Pastor Rev. Dieter Magnus • Associate Pastor Rev. Jared Enns 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535 WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY 10:30 a.m. - Invermere - Christ Church Trinity, Worship & Sunday School.

Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644 VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday • 10:00 a.m.

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 ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere 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 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Regular weekly worship services every Sunday at 1:30 pm at Christ Church Trinity 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. Fraser Coltman • 1-866-426-7564 RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Every Sunday 10:00 am Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • Radium Seniors’ Hall • 342-6633 THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday, 10:00 am President Grant Watkins • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 345-0079

Selkirk TV & Appliance • Kitchenaid • Inglis • Whirlpool • Roper

Great rates, products and service

NOTICE

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH 10:30 a.m., Sunday, December 17 – Worship and Life Instruction, “The Right Choice In Busy Times.”

Panasonic Pioneer Cell Phones Electronics & Service Christian Books, Music & Misc.

1229-7th Ave., Invermere

342-6415

WE SELL REAL ESTATE Call

341-6151

• Business start-up and expansion loans*

• Radium • Invermere • Panorama

• Self-employment program*

• Windermere • Fairmont

• Entrepreneurial support

VALLEY’S BEST INVESTMENT

• Free business counselling • Free business library and internet access in Cranbrook * Some programs have eligibility requirements.

Call for details.

or

18883416155 rayfergusonrealty.ca

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

Alpine townhome nestled in the trees. Enjoy Radium Resort’s outstanding amenities: indoor pool, tennis, golf, exercise room, squash, hot pools & dining.

MLS# K150688

$298,000

December 15, 2006

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

www.ReMaxInvermere.com

Invermere

At Panorama: 250-341-4898 Toll Free: 1-888-258-9911

Independently Owned and Operated

250-342-6505

Wende Brash 342-1300

Bernie Raven 342-7415

Daniel Zurgilgen 342-1612

Ed English 342-1194

Windermere Lot!

Located on Nelles Crescent, this large lot is perfect for your dream home.

Beautiful setting is treed and backs onto a creek. Don�t miss this opportunity!

MLS#K151792

$239,000 + GST

The Talk of the Town

New townhouse condo in Invermere. Nine foot ceilings and cedar siding with shingle accents.

Craftsmanship and top quality, including shaker style cabinets, solid ¾” hardwood oor, berber, tile, replace and ensuite. Undeveloped basement. MLS#K151830

$359,000 + GST

Jan Klimek 342-1195

John McCarthy 342-1758

Lynda Kirkpatrick 341-1907

Scott Wallace 342-5309

Mountain Getaway

Andy Smith 342-1709

This fully nished home is ideal for entertaining family and offers revenue potential. Large private yard, walkout dining area to a private screened deck and enjoy those hot summer evenings. MLS#K150742

Bryan Hookenson 341-1266

Rob Rice 341-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice 342-5935

Here is a Bargain

Katie Wallace 342-5785

Where in the world can you own a one bedroom revenue producing condo on a world class ski/golf resort for this price! Check it out at Panorama. Buyer to assume New Vision payments of $161.43 per month. MLS#K151275

$319,000

$109,000

Terric Development Opportunity

Riverstone Villas

Centrally located R-2 lot minutes from downtown, schools and parks. Terric development opportunity on at lot with western exposure. Don�t miss out!

MLS#K151188

Town home in Radium offers the best of this development, with attached garage, 3 bedrooms corner unit backing onto park space, plus it comes fully furnished for turnkey ready rental/ revenue investment. Getaway place in the valley or vacation rental property. MLS#K151807

$295,000

$285,000

Panorama Awaits

Mountain View Lot

Close to the Beach

Affordable one bedroom condo at Panorama Mountain Village. Already furnished, dishes and TV are all there for you. Buyer to assume New Vision payment of $161.43/ month. MLS#K151838

Spectacular view lot in Columbia Ridge is wide open to eastern vistas. Large, wedge shaped lot offers cleared and level terrain, great views, building commitment to November 2009. MLS#K151032

The lowest priced single family home in Invermere. Move in condition, close to the beach, only 10 years old and clean as a whistle. This is not on leased land. Call today.

MLS#K151026

$107,000 + GST

Majestic Feeling

Majestic views of the valley, mountains and lake & tons of natural light. Enter into the highest quality of wood nishing, slate and wood ooring, granite countertops and many additional features. Castlerock amenities are coming soon, recreation centre with pool, tennis courts, playground and more. Furnishings included.

No GST.

$519,900

$159,900

Highest

of Standards Lakeview meadows newest phase of maintenance free living. Quality design, rustic style and relaxed comfort. 3 bedroom. 2 bathrooms, fully furnished with walkout basement. Wood and slate ooring, east and west mountain views. Amenities include indoor pool/rec centre, park and beach access.

Furnishings included. No GST.

$599,000

$269,000