vol4issue12

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Vol. 4/Issue 12

The Columbia

Valley

March 23, 2007

P I NEER

FREE

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

CANCELLED TRIP

Golf season begins 2 LOOKING BACK

20 EASTER CONTEST

Scott Halford of Invermere takes a practice swing at Setetkwa Golf Course while Stan Nockleby of Edgewater watches. For a complete list of opening dates, see Page 23.

17

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

VALLEY NEWS

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No passport, no grad trip

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Staff A 17-year-old Windermere girl says she will spend the next two weeks in tears after missing her grad trip because her Canadian passport didn’t arrive in time.

Fourteen Grade 12 students from David Thompson Secondary School left Sunday to fly from Calgary to Toronto and then to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to board a cruise ship for seven nights.

Tiffany Melnyk, daughter of Gary and Vickey Melnyk of Windermere, said she applied for her passport by mail on January 16th.

“We were told it would take 45 working days,” she said.

In the last couple of weeks Tiffany started to haunt the post office - but still no passport.

“We were calling the Passport Office once a day, and every time they told us they had no information,” Tiffany said.

The cruise organizers told her she could travel with the group if she had a valid birth certificate - but unfortunately Tiffany’s birth certificate was with her passport

Tiffany Melnyk application in Ottawa.

On Friday, March 16th - 43 working days from the date she applied - Tiffany went to the post office one last time but there was no passport.

“I was heartbroken, big-time,” Tiffany said. “I’m not going to lie - I cried.”

Even worse is the fact that the $1,700 cost of the trip is completely non-refundable.

Tiffany, who has been planning this trip since last summer, worked at the Windy Café in Windermere

and the Saan Store to save all the money for her trip. Her parents did not contribute anything.

The grad trip, which is not organized by the school, is a tradition observed by many graduating students who start planning their annual trip up to a year ahead of time.

This year one group of students is going on the grad cruise out of Florida, and a second group is travelling to Mexico.

Meanwhile, Brenda Dohlen, a travel agent with Travel World in Invermere, is cautioning people to allow three months if they mail their passport application to Ottawa.

She said it is possible to obtain a passport within a week if you take your application to Calgary in person and stand in line, although there is an additional cost.

And the government agent here in Invermere is able to issue valid birth certificates. If all else fails, Mrs. Dohlen said, contact your local MP Jim Abbott.

She said so far Travel World hasn’t heard of anyone missing their trip due to a late passport. “I really feel sorry for Tiffany,” she said.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

March 23, 2007

VALLEY NEWS

Province to take back Jumbo decision

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff New rules under consideration by the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia will broaden the provincial government’s authority to designate resort areas and create resort municipalities.

If adopted, the Community Services Statute Amendment Act of 2007 could bring an end to the 15-year debate of the merits and hazards of a four-season resort on Jumbo Glacier.

Bill 11, which was tabled after receiving its second reading last week, sets the stage for two local debates: • Firstly, whether or not the new rules circumvent the local process of approval of the proposed $450-million Jumbo Glacier Resort; • Secondly, which community, Invermere or Radium, would the provincial government choose for a possible amalgamation with a resort municipality in the Jumbo Valley?

Columbia-Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald challenged B.C. Community Services Minister Ida Chong, the Oak Bay-Gordon Head MLA who introduced the bill, to reiterate her government’s promise of October 2006 that residents of East Kootenay would have the final say on the approval of Jumbo Glacier Resort.

Section 15 of the bill would allow the provincial government to create a resort municipality in the Jumbo Valley and relieve the regional district of any rezoning decisions that would otherwise be required to move the Jumbo Glacier Resort project forward.

“There are two problems with it,” Mr. Macdonald explained in a subsequent telephone interview. “First, it breaks a promise to the communities of the regional district that the decision would stay local; and, second, it’s a sneaky way to do it and it’s dishonest.”

Mr. Macdonald said that because there is so much local opposition to Jumbo Glacier Resort, government is obligated to deal with it in an open, up-front manner, not by a secret cabinet-level decision. Macdonald said he has received comments from more than 3,000 people on the Jumbo issue.

“It shows a lack of respect for the communities in-

volved,” he said. “Fifteen years is a long time to work on something like this only to be shut out of the process or find out the rules have changed.”

Mr. Macdonald said he is not opposed to the bill, in general, but would prefer the Campbell government remove the offending Section 15.

The Community Services Statutes Amendment Act will also add specialized governance provisions for newly-incorporated mountain resort municipalities; define mountain and non-mountain resort regions and provide them with specialized finance and land use tools.

In an interview with The Pioneer, B.C. Minister of Community Services Ida Chong, who introduced the bill, said it was presumptuous of Mr. Macdonald to assume that the legislation was specifically about Jumbo.

“The legislation was not crafted to deal with any specific resort proposal,” she said. “It was the result of recommendations made by the B.C. Resort Task Force of 2004.”

It is also presumptuous, she said, to assume the provincial government will use the new rule to greenlight Jumbo Glacier Resort.

Ellen Zimmerman, Columbia Headwaters Program Manager for Wildsight, a major opponent of the proposed resort, called the bill a breach of trust between area residents and the provincial government.

“It’s a Kootenay decision,” she said. “We see this as an end-run around an established process. It’s kind of sleazy.”

Ms. Zimmerman said the way the amendment was introduced—on short notice, buried in a bill that is agreeable otherwise—makes her distrustful of the provincial government. “That says to me that it’s completely wrong,” she said.

East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett said the new rules settle some jurisdictional issues between the provincial and regional district governments and creates some assurances for corporate investors in British Columbia resorts.

In the power struggle between regional districts and the provincial government over the administration of crown land, the new legislation tips the balance squarely in favor of the province.

“Our communities, in my opinion, are fatigued by the Jumbo process,” he said. “If you want to invest your money in B.C., you need to know you are going to be treated fairly and not put on a regulatory roundabout.”

MLAs Chong and Bennett noted that the provincial use of the authority to create “instant towns” is not new. Ms. Chong cited Whistler and Mr. Bennett cited Sparwood and Elkford as towns created by provincial authority when the need arose.

Since Bill 11 gives the provincial government the authority to move forward on Jumbo Glacier Resort, Mayor Greg Deck suggested Radium Hot Springs as a possible amalgamation partner with a resort municipality in the Jumbo Valley, instead of Invermere.

Drawing on the existing functions of a local government solves some of the challenges for resort municipalities, he explained.

“Since it now appears that the Jumbo project will go ahead,” Mr. Deck said in a prepared statement, “it is possible that either Radium or Invermere might be approached for this purpose, and it will lead to an interesting discussion.”

District of Invermere Mayor Mark Shmigelsky called the suggested Jumbo-Radium amalgamation “ridiculous” and “astounding.”

“It is going to be interesting to see how the province uses this legislation, and I have said for a number of years and have communicated to the province that if they were going to take this decision away from the regional district and the local population, that Invermere would be interested in extending its boundary to Jumbo, rather than seeing an appointed board or another municipality in the Columbia Valley,” he said.

“Does it make sense to suggest that the province amalgamate Radium and Jumbo, when you have to drive through Invermere, on Invermere taxpayer-funded roads to get there? A decision like that would be based on pure politics and not on proper governance of an adjacent jurisdiction. However, I would be in favour of a regional municipality encompassing the entire Columbia Valley.”

The Legislative Assembly returns to Victoria next week to resume the debate.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

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RCMP Report For the week ending March 17th, 2007 Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 64 calls for service, with only two reported motor vehicle accidents.

• March 10: At approximately 12:20 p.m., police responded to a white cube van/motorhome parked in the northbound lane but heading southbound with the driver out of the van urinating. The motor home was located later with the male walking down the middle of the road drunk.

Due to the driver being out of the vehicle, he was arrested for being drunk in a public place and issued a ticket for the same when he was sober.

• March 10: At approximately 2 a.m. police observed a vehicle spinning its tires around a corner pulling into a parking lot and hitting a curb. The driver displayed mild signs of impairment and a 24-hour suspension was issued.

• March 12: Police were notified of an unlocked vehicle that was broken into in Canal Flats on Luck Avenue.

• March 13: Police were notified of a gas and dash from Windermere Foods for $20. Video Surveillance was working and there is a suspect. This file is still under investigation.

• March 13: Police were notified of a theft of $360 cash and a portable DVD player from an unlocked vehicle in Canal Flats. A second vehicle was also gone through on Beatty Avenue in Canal Flats.

• March 14: At approximately 2:20 p.m. the Columbia RCMP responded to information received of a vehicle re-

turning from Alberta with a quantity of cocaine. The police dog was utilized and 170 grams of cocaine was located underneath the hood of the vehicle.

Duane Simpson and Christopher Foy were both arrested for Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. Simpson was further charged for Possession of a Substance and Foy was charged for Impaired Driving. Both subjects are scheduled to appear in court on March 19th in Cranbrook.

• March 14: Two chainsaws were turned over to the Columbia Valley Police after being found on private property in Canal Flats. One is a Jonsered and one is a McCulloch 4. If you are missing a couple of saws or one that is of either one of these name brands, please contact this office. Further description of the saws may be required. Police file number 2007-706.

• March 15: Police responded to a complaint of an intoxicated male beating on structures in downtown Invermere. On attendance police located the male subject and arrested him for being drunk in a public place. He was released when sober with a ticket.

No damage actually occurred to any of the buildings.

• March 16: At approximately 9:30 p.m. police were on patrol on Kootenay Road No. 3 and observed a vehicle travelling north without licence plates. The vehicle was pulled over and the member found that the driver was also unlicenced. The vehicle was towed and tickets were issued.

Rural broadband moves ahead The Regional District of East Kootenay Board at their March meeting gave three readings to the bylaws required for the broadband local access project to proceed.

If approved by the electors and adopted by the Board, Bylaw No. 1962 will establish the local access service and set a maximum tax rate of 43 cents per $1,000 of taxable assessed value and Bylaw No. 1963 will authorize borrowing up to $12.5 million for the construction.

“The bylaws have now been sent to the Ministry of Community Services for approval,” explains board vice-chair, Norm Walter. “Once Ministry approval is received, the next

step is to conduct the alternative approval process which will take about six to eight weeks. We are hoping to have the process complete by the end of May, but it will depend on the timing of the Ministry’s approval.”

To assist eligible electors with making their decision, an information campaign will be launched prior to the start of the approval process.

Residents and property owners in the service area are encouraged to contact the Regional District to determine if they are included within the proposed service area and to ask questions. The broadband local access project will cover portions of Electoral Areas F and G.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

March 23, 2007

‘The Ranch’ stripped to bare ground

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Staff An historic 75-acre property south of Invermere along Westside Road that has drawn complaints for many years as an eyesore is being cleaned up and restored to its natural beauty.

The acreage well-known to locals as the Brady Creek Ranch or simply “The Ranch” was the residence until recently of Garry Hamilton, who is now in a U.S. jail awaiting his trial for drug-related offences.

His sister Lynne of Calgary has now stepped in to manage the property and do the necessary clean-up and repairs.

The property, located just north of Rualt Road, had been used in part as an auto repair business.

About 60 vehicles including boats, snowmobiles and non-farm equipment were scattered around the barn area.

A couple of sheds even contained personal effects belonging to several of the many renters who have lived at the ranch over the years.

After posting the mandatory notices in The Pioneer for four weeks, Lynne asked anyone, who could prove ownership of their belongings, to remove them from the property.

This was followed by a two-day “cash-and-carry” sale where many valley residents came to take advantage of some great bargains to be found amongst the remaining vehicles, abandoned furniture, appliances and building supplies stored on the property.

A local contractor has been hired to remove the remaining vehicles and debris, to take down the temporary buildings and remove the compound fencing, leaving the barn area in its original state.

A familiar sight beside Westside Road is the weathered old tumbledown barn that was built by the Lake family in the late 1800s.

Lynne said she will not tear down the barn nor its

Abandoned vehicles are being removed from the Brady Creek Ranch south of Invermere. original corrals as they are a piece of valley history.

The land is currently part of the Agricultural Land Reserve where until recently, miniature horses grazed on the pasture.

Extending on both sides of Westside Road, the 70 acres to the east contains two barns and a cabin with stunning views that sweep down to the lakeshore.

The five-acre parcel to the west, on the upper side of Westside Road, has a cedar log home, one indoor pool and two outdoor pools, a functioning bar, two large garages and assorted guest accommodations.

Lynne said although the property has not been

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listed, there has already been a lot of interest from developers and individuals to purchase the property.

Garry Hamilton, 52, was arrested last December in Los Angeles and charged with conspiracy to import marijuana into the United States and conspiracy to export cocaine into Canada.

Another Invermere man, 51-year-old Terry Holt, was arrested earlier in 2006 and sentenced to 11 years in a U.S. jail on possession charges. One other B.C. man and two Calgarians were also charged.

Lynne did not wish to comment on her brother’s case since the outcome is still pending.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Pioneer sponsors new workshop

March 23, 2007

Historical Lens

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Publisher The Pioneer’s Women in Business advertising supplement had some really positive spinoffs for the Columbia Valley.

Many of our readers expressed amazement that there were so many women in business here. “It looks like women are running the whole place,” was a comment heard several times.

And we aren’t finished yet. After 68 women in business were profiled on February 16th, at least 20 more came forward and asked if we could publish a second supplement.

That will appear on March 30th, so if you are an owner, manager or professional woman who works here in the valley, please call us at 341-6299.

While researching the statistics for women in business in the province, I came across a website for the Women’s Enterprise Centre based in Kelowna. This is a provincially-funded body set up to assist businesses with professional advice and loans.

After calling them to find out more, it emerged that their staff would be willing to come out here and present a seminar called “Focused Marketing.”

Co-sponsored by The Pioneer and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, this marketing seminar will be held on Friday, April 20th at the Lions Hall at the crossroads.

We were happy to learn that the event could be held at relatively short notice, because as we all know, from May to September every business owner in the valley will be working like never before and unable to attend a seminar. So the timing is perfect.

And just so you don’t think we are discriminating against men, the event is open to anybody interested in marketing, of any gender.

The event takes place from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will cost $69, including lunch and a study guide.

You may pre-register at www.womensenterprise.ca or call 1-800-653-7014, ext. 112 to register over the telephone. Please see Page 15 for more information.

Searching for zinc during wartime in Kootenay National Park Dear Editor: I took this photo on August 4th, 1942. The operator of the 20 Cat is the late Wally Lautrop and sitting on the “stoneboat” is Sandy the cook. They were working at a diamond drill camp on Hawk Ridge in Kootenay Park. I don’t remember the third man’s name.

At the time, Wally was the foreman of the road maintenance camp at Hawk Creek, but was also involved with transporting material to the drill site.

This was located 2.5 kilometres east of Highway 93.

In 1942, due to the wartime shortage of zinc,

Base Metals Corp., which was operating the Monarch Mine at Field, B.C., was given permission to do exploration work on the Albion Claims in Kootenay National Park.

The core sample showed that the ore body contained 30-percent zinc, but wasn’t large enough to be developed. These mineral claims had been staked

by Fred W. Jowett in 1929.

My thanks to Larry Halverson, chief naturalist of Kootenay National Park, for providing the information about the mineral claims.

Ray Crook Invermere

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

March 23, 2007

LETTERS

Resort inappropriate use for Jumbo Valley Dear Editor: It shouldn’t surprise us that a falsehood can be widely spread and propagated by those who invented it. In the March 16th issue of The Pioneer, Ian McKenzie spreads the deception: “After lengthy debate the CORE table specifically designated Jumbo Valley as being appropriate for Jumbo Resort.”

I don’t remember Mr. McKenzie sitting at the East Kootenay CORE table, but I was there and that is not what happened.

The East Kootenay Regional Table report Volume 3, Land Unit Polygons Record of Information, Final Draft July 1994, documents the following: The table was unable to reach consensus on a designation for the polygon that contained Jumbo, so the report lists two possible designations: Integrated (intent is to maintain long-term health and productivity of the land base and to provide a variety of opportunities for sustainable resource use) or Spe-

cial Management (identified as lands with sensitive fish and wildlife habitat, visual quality, recreational and cultural features while allowing compatible human use).

Both the Special Management and Integrated options contain a listing of acceptable uses.

Neither the Integrated nor the Special Management option allowed use No. 16 (Urban Settlement) or use No. 15 (Rural Settlement).

The scale of the proposed Jumbo development would qualify it as, at least, a rural settlement and therefore it should not be allowed.

That’s what happened. As CORE participants, we trusted the acceptable uses (to which we agreed by consensus) to convey the intent of the vast majority of local residents that there should never be a development of the size or scope of the proposed Jumbo Glacier Resort.

Ellen Zimmerman, Wildsight Golden

Correction

In the story “Development freeze wanted on west side of lake,” in the March 16th edition of The Pioneer, the 10,000-acre SLR property, also known as the K2 Ranch, owned by Bob and Barb Shaunessy on the west side of Lake

Loewen salutes the extraordinary performance of Invermere

Windermere was incorrectly identified as having applied for exclusion from the Agricultural Land Reserve.

The property that applied for exclusion to develop an RV park and resort is the 1,795-acre Terra-West Property.

Wilmer box missing Wilmer and area residents will no longer be able to pick up their Pioneer at the distinctive yellow box near the Canada Post group mailboxes because the yellow box is missing!

The box disappeared a couple of weeks ago, said Pioneer distributors David and Florence Raven.

The Ravens went back two Fridays in a row to see if the box would show up, but there is still no sign of it.

If you know where the box is,

please call us at 341-6299.

In the meantime, Wilmer residents will have to pick up their Pioneer in Invermere at one of our many locations, including The Pioneer Newspaper office at 1008-8th Avenue (down the street from Peppi’s Pizzeria), AG Valley Foods or Sobey’s.

For a complete list, please check our website at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com.

If the box shows up, we will replace it at the former location.

I

L to R: Al Miller, Harold Hazelaar ( Invermere Home Hardware ), Wayne Walz ( Loewen Windows ), John Van Spankeren ( Invermere Home Hardware)

nvermere Home Hardware had a impressive year as a major supplier of Loewen Windows & Doors to the area’s residents and contractors. Home Hardware’s commitment to customer service and the resulting sales performance has been recognized with an award honoring Home Hardware’s consistent efforts to ensure customer satisfaction. This is the Second year in a row that Invermere Home Hardware has been presented with this award.

Congratulations!!!

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

LETTERS

March 23, 2007

Liberal government's move 'despicable' Dear Editor: The Campbell government’s attempt to quietly insert amendments to Section 15 of Bill 11 dealing with resort development designations again shows their complete contempt for democracy. This government

is a despicable example of power out of control and an embarrassment to all British Columbians. The Campbell Liberals must immediately remove these proposed amendments.

Campbell and his cronies were elected to represent the wishes of all British Columbians, not just a

Bennett should set record straight Dear Editor: I am writing in regard to a speech delivered in the provincial legislature on February 19th, 2007 by Bill Bennett, MLA for the riding of East Kootenay.

In his speech, it appears that Mr. Bennett is claiming for his government, complete credit for the existence of a travelling Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine that services the south Okanagan as well as two hospitals in the Kootenays and a CAT Scan machine in the Cranbrook Hospital.

I would like to set the record straight. The East Kootenay Foundation for Health, the Kootenay

Boundray Hospital Foundation and the South Okanagan and Similkameen Medical Foundation raised through private donations $1.5 million for the MRI machine. The East Kootenay Foundation for Health raised $530,000 for the Cranbrook CAT Scan. The existence of these machines is due mainly to the efforts of these three organizations and the thousands of generous people who contributed.

Mr. Bennett should apologize for neglecting to mention these organizations and contributors in his speech.

Jim Galloway Brisco

select few. He may have conveniently forgotten, but he promised to have the most open and accountable government in BC’s history. My, my, talk is cheap.

Norm and Loni Funnell Edgewater

Thank you, friends!

Dear Editor: Lorne and Joann Rowe want to thank all of our friends and well wishers for their deep concerns and prayers during the past year. Your kindness has been overwhelming during this most difficult period.

Because of medical and housing concerns, we have had to move from the Columbia Valley back to Calgary but will always treasure the memories we are taking with us. Special thanks for those who were instrumental in our move. We can never thank you enough.

Lorne and Joann Rowe Calgary

Looking for the best deal on gasoline Dear Editor: I thought I should bring the fuel gouging back into view in light of the recent explosion in increases seen here in the valley. Almost a three-to-four-cent increase every four to seven days, when the current oil market has remained steady or in some cases has declined. This is the same silly gouging we as locals get to enjoy every year here in the valley.

From my observation, first we see the two gas stations in Athalmer hike their prices, followed quickly by

the other two gas stations in Radium. The one gleaming exception is Radium Husky, holding out as long as possible before having to comply with the others.

I have observed time and time again over the winter, they are the last to go up and the first to come down.

The biggest example, when the Albertans previously had their last long weekend, the four gas stations quickly increased their prices in anticipation for the long weekend, while Husky remained the same, posting 96.9 cent per litre, while the rest climbed seven

cents up to 103.9. The Radium Husky remained at this price for the entire week. Kudos to them!!

I give the Radium Husky my full support, even when their prices are even with the others!! I encourage everyone else to do the same.

We cannot hide from buying gasoline but we can sure give our hard-earned dollar to the guy that is trying to help us.

Everett Frater Invermere

Stein Block comes down The Stein apartment building behind Strand's Restaurant in Invermere finally fell to the demolition crew this week. Residents were given their eviction notices and asked to leave last summer, but construction delays resulted in the building left standing until now and being rented on a month-to-month basis.

Developer Cardel Resorts will build townhouses on the property. The first new building, seen in the background on the left, has now been framed. Another apartment building at the rear of the property will remain.

> >>>

Encore

Page 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS AT THE TOBY

PAGE 10 PAGE 10

AWARD WINNER

PAGE 12

Tall Timber Artist Maya Eventov, whose new paintings feature birch trees, will visit Artym Gallery this weekend.See Page 13.

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

Wheat in the Barley · Pynelogs Cultural Centre Celtic Rock Concert, Bistro Concert Series, Wednesday March 28

‘Laugh Your Ass Off’ Comedy Festival Presented by Kicking Horse Coffee · Todd Butler – Friday April 13th.

Tickets available Call 342-4423

What does ART Pynelogs Cultural Centre · ‘07 Gallery Season Opening mean to you? Thursday April 19, 5:30 - 9:30 pm Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 342-4423.

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

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

Movie Review: The Holiday Reviewed by Elinor Florence This is a classic chick flick, one that will be repeated for years on late night sobfests and romance specials.

The plot centres around two young women - Kate Winslett and Cameron Diaz - who switch houses in an attempt to recover from dual broken hearts.

Kate winds up in a Los Angeles mansion and Cameron in a rose-covered English cottage. With the change of scenery come two gorgeous new men - Jude Law, and Jack Black (OK,

he's not that gorgeous, but funny men are attractive, as women will attest).

A strong supporting role from Kate's neighbour, a 90-year-old screenwriter played by aging actor Eli Wallach, rounds out the cast.

Romantic comedy - emphasis on the romantic - makes this a must-see movie for women of all ages.

RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 HEADS

ARTIST DIRECT Original Oil Paintings by Gabriel

250-342-9074

Daily Specials Monday

Thursday

Tuesday

Friday

......................Beef Ribs ...............Mexi Flavours

Wednesday

...................Pizza Night

............... Wings & Jugs ............Steak & Shrimp

Saturday

........................ Lasagna

DJ Wil C.

Ladies Malibu Cocktails & Jager

3

$ 75

spins the tunes

all weekend

Bridal Expo a big hit Hundreds of women, and dozens of men, flocked to the Copper Point Golf Club last Saturday to view the wares of more than 30 local vendors and suppliers who are aiming at the valley's growing wedding business. Florists, caterers, limousine rentals, photographers and jewellers provided lots of ideas for brides and others who are planning a large event.

One of the most popular portions of the afternoon was a fashion show. Tiffany's Thredz in downtown Invermere provided formal wear, suitable for a mother of the bride or a glamorous guest. Pictured here from left to right are Brenda Braund-Read, Tiffany Gulbe, Francine Feldmann, Camille Howie and Doran Williams.

1310 7thth Ave., Invermere • (250) 341-3344

Gone

HOLLYWOOD V

I D E O

Photo by Kathy Sutherland Gone Hollywood’s

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

New Releases Mar. 20

New Releases Mar. 27

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5

Casino Royale The Holiday Borat The Departed Stranger than Fiction

Blood Diamond Eragon Rocky Balboa Incredible Mrs. Ritchie, The Every One’s Hero

Pursuit of Happiness, The Happy Feet Good Shepard, The Children of Men Van Wilder - The Rise of Taj

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

342-0057

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

March 23 , 2007

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

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

Toby Theatre • March 21 - 24: Dreamgirls • March 28 - 31: Freedom Writers

Friday, March 30th • 9 am: Regional District of East Kootenay board meeting. For more info: 1-888-478-7335.

Friday, March 30th • Women in Business: The Sequel. Special advertising supplement in The Pioneer. Call 341-6299.

• Cranbrook SPCA hosts spay and neuter blitz for low-income cats. For info: (250) 426-6751.

Max’s Place and COTR in Cranbrook. Sponsored

by Kicking Horse Coffee. Includes barbecue buffet dinner, 7 pm.

Friday, April 20th • 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Focused Marketing workshop, presented by Women’s Enterprise Centre, sponsored by Columbia Valley Pioneer and Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, Lions Hall. Cost $69 includes lunch and study guide. To pre-register, call 1-800-643-7014, ext. 112.

Wednesday, April 4th

Saturday, March 24th • Cranbrook SPCA hosts spay and neuter blitz for low-income cats. Call (250) 426-6751 for more.

• Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71st’s 80th Anniversary Dinner. Veterans and spouses must preregister by calling Wendy at 342-4242. Tickets available for Legion members and general public.

Tuesday, March 27th • 2 pm - 4 pm: Canadian Pension Plan - Disability Services workshop, facilitated by Dave Dewhirst of the federal government. Held at Lions’ Hall, crossroads.

• 1 pm - 3 pm: East Kootenay Brain Injury Association Support Group Meet, Valley Connections Facility.

Survivors, family and friends welcome. For info: (250) 344-5674.

• 7 pm: Author Adam Schroeder will read from his latest novel at the Radium Seniors Hall, sponsored by Radium Public Library. Free admission.

Wednesday, March 28th • Wheat in the Barley, a colourful, multi-instrumental band performing at Pynelogs. For info: 342-4423, or www.wheatinthebarley.com.

• Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser daffodils arrive and will be available for purchase. For info: Rosemary Clarke, 342-3039.

Thursday, March 29th • Couples welcome to The Marriage Course, hosted

by Radium Christian Fellowship, in the Radium Seniors’ Hall. Supper at 6:30 p.m. followed by a video explaining the course. RSVP to Mike or Linda at 342-6359 by March 22nd.

• The Gallery Café closes its doors.

• 6 pm: Business Excellence Awards, Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, at Radium Resort, with guest speaker Ken Fowler. Tickets at $50 each are SOLD OUT. Call 342-2844 to be put on a waiting list.

Friday, April 6th • 7 pm: Laws of Spirit Circle - The Law of Presence.

Based on Dan Millman’s book, this circle, facilitated

by Maria Kliavkoff, explores The Laws of Spirit month-by-month. For more info: 347-2110, or visit www.mkfacilitations.com.

Sunday, April 8th • Noon: Children’s Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by Windermere Community Association, in the field beside the Windermere Hall.

Tuesday, April 10th • Lorne Elliott, Canada’s top comedian, will NOT perform at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere due to illness. Comedian Todd Butler will perform as scheduled on April 13th.

Wednesday, April 11th - Wednesday, May 16th • 9:30 am - 12 pm: Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, Akisqnuk Health Centre; 2 pm - 4:30 pm, Edgewater Legion Hall. Six sessions, to register and for info: 1(866) 902-3767, or visit www.coag.uvic. ca/cdsmp/

Hot Springs Hours of Operation • Radium Hot Pool, Sunday - Thursday 12 pm - 9 pm; Friday - Saturday 12 pm - 10 pm.

• Radium Cool Pool, Friday 6 pm - 9 pm, Saturday - Sunday 12 pm - 9 pm. For info: 347-9485.

• Fairmont Hot Springs Hot Pool Hours: 8 am - 10 pm daily. For info: 345-6311.

Student News • Elkhorn College is now accepting applications of interest for September 2007. Apply to: Elkhorn Ranch Ltd., Box 128, Windermere, BC V0B 2L0.

MARCH 19th - 30th: • March Break, no school.

Columbia Valley Food Bank Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 pm - 2 pm To donate, mail a cheque to: Box 2141, Invermere.

New Video Releases Tuesday. March 20th • Children of Men • Turista’s • The Pursuit of Happyness • Sex Sells • Curse of the Golden Flower • Candy • The Impossible Elephant • Happy Feet • The Number One Girl • IMAX: Deep Sea • National Lampoon’s Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj

Invermere Thrift Store Thursdays, 10 am - 4 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 1 pm - 4 pm

Friday, April 13th • 8 pm: College of the Rockies presents Todd Butler, Canada’s Master of Satire, performing at Mountainside Golf Clubhouse, Fairmont. Tickets are $50/each, available at Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials, Pynelogs, Invermere; Trims & Treasures, Fairmont;

Invermere Library Hours • Tuesday & Friday: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• Wednesday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.

• Thursday: 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

“Branding for the Small Business”

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30 - 8:00 pm April 10-26, Invermere Campus.

The College of the Rockies is pleased to present this six-session workshop series. Get the most out of your marketing budget by integrating your advertising, image, customer service, web presence, and more!

Instructed by Harrison McKay, strategic marketing consultant and advertising agency owner.

To register, call the College at 342-3210.

This course is booking fast. Don’t miss out!

CVCC Members receive a 10% discount.

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

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

At The Library Kamikaze by Michael Slade

the Special X squad of the RCMP scrambles to stop Tokuda’s henchmen, ruthless men willing to gouge Reviewed

by Sheila Bonny Kamikaze

by Michael Slade out eyes, slit throats, and execute suiInvermere Public Library cide missions.

Reviewed by Sheila Bonny Using live decoys, tracking deIn Kamikaze, Slade weaves a tale Invermere Public Library of terror around violent modern day vices, and a fleet of pursuit cars, the tailsmodern the suspects falloutIn from World War conflicta tale in ofsquad Kamikaze, SladeIIweaves terrordesperately around violent swirling fog, unaware that theday Pacifi c Thfrom eatre.World War II conflictthrough fallout in the Pacifi c Theatre. psychotic has infiisltrated Genjo Tokuda, thethe feared elder of of athe Genjo Tokuda, feared elder Japanesemurderer crime syndicate, thelured Japanese crime syndicate, is lured the to Vancouver by the opportunity to police avengeoperation. the death of his entire In the tradition of action to family Vancouver the opportunity to in thebyincineration of Hiroshima.

His target is the family of thrillers, Slade emphasizes plot over charavenge the death of his entire famJoe Hett, a crewman from the bomber that dropped the atomic bomb, ily in the incineration of Hiroshima. acter development. He includes His target is the family of Joe Hett, flashbacks to eyewitness accounts of a crewman from the bomber that the bombings of Pearl Harbour and dropped the atomic bomb, and key- Hiroshima, but, despite the horrennote speaker at the Pacific War Vets dous violence in the story, his characConvention to be held at Canada ters express little emotion.

Kamikaze is a “quick read” filled Place on Burrard Inlet.

After a gruesome act of violence, with action throughout 310 pages.

Natalie Purschwitz, left, with friend Kelly Lycan at her awards event in New York.

Former valley resident wins design award

By Sandra Kelly Pioneer Staff

AC N

D E L L CE Lorne Elliott

Canada’s top comedian promises to keep you in stitches!

April 10

Christ Church Trinity, Invermere 7:30 pm Tickets $25

Todd Butler “Canada’s Master of Satire” is guaranteed to entertain you!

April 13

Mountainside Golf Clubhouse, Fairmont Includes a BBQ buffet dinner (cash bar) at 7:00 pm, with the show beginning at 8:00 pm.

Tickets $50

Festival package price of $65 available!

Tickets are available at Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials and Pynelogs in Invermere, Trims & Treasures in Fairmont, and Max’s Place and COTR in Cranbrook.

Presented by:

She was surprised, then shocked, and, finally, honored.

“I couldn’t believe it,” said Natalie Purschwitz from her home in Vancouver. The fashion designer and former valley resident recently earned honorable mention in the annual design awards given out by Travel and Leisure Magazine.

The awards recognize innovative retail design concepts. Natalie was mentioned in the category of Best Retail Space, for the layout and design of Hunt and Gather, her fashion boutique in Vancouver’s Gastown district. The only Canadian to win this year, she was “thrilled” to accept the award in New York City on February 27th.

The ultra-chic Apple Store on Fifth Avenue in New York and the Frietag Shop in Zurich, Switzerland were also mentioned. Natalie said it was “a great honor” to be included in such company.

Natalie was born and raised in Radium, and graduated from David Thompson Secondary School in 1989.

She has lived in Vancouver for 12 years.

Her parents, Chizuko and Achim Pur-

schwitz, own and operate Achim’s Gallery in Invermere.

About 18 months ago Natalie opened Hunt and Gather to serve as a showcase for the women’s clothing she designs.

A man named Rob Forbes from San Francisco visited the combined shop and studio—and then nominated her for the design award.

“I took a minimalist approach to designing the boutique,” said Natalie.

“It’s all white, with very little to distract customers from the items on display.”

Fashion is Natalie’s passion, but it wasn’t her first career choice. She had studied fine arts with a view toward working somewhere in that field. But helping to produce a wearable art show made her realize the artistic potential in clothes. She designed the costumes for a dance show, and other commissions soon followed.

Her clients now include such notables as musician Jane Siberry, for whom she designs both stage and street clothes, and Decidedly Jazz Danceworks.

Natalie said that Hunt and Gather isn’t just a place to buy beautiful clothes.

“I host special events. I hold art exhibitions, and dance shows and rock shows.

It’s going really well.”

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

March 23, 2007

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

Maya Eventov to visit Artym Gallery

Submitted by Deanna Berrington The Artym Gallery Artist Maya Eventov, well known for her amazingly textured and colourful works, has shown in large art centers such as New York, Laguna Beach, Dallas, and Vail, Colorado in the last year. This weekend, the Russian-born, Ontario-based artist makes a special trip to the Artym Gallery in Invermere.

This is the third show that Maya has attended in Western Canada at the Artym, and she claims a special attachment to Invermere. She loves showing at the Artym, and credits her last trip to Invermere with inspiring her to paint Canada.

This much anticipated show will feature three different series of Maya’s acrylic paintings. She will be in attendance for the opening reception from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 23rd and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 24th.

Of the three series that the Artym will be showcasing for this show, most recognizable is the Travel Series, a style that Maya uses to capture the feeling of places like the Mediterranean. These paintings encompass what Maya Eventov is all about – the vibrant colours catch the eye, and the amazing texture in her work is fascinating both from a distance as well as up close (she creates the texture using a palette knife). Us-

ing the colour yellow as a base, these paintings are so bright and warm that they transport you to a world of cafés, canals and sunny days.

The second group of paintings featured in this show is her Cabin Series, a charming group of works that Maya Eventov has been creating since the show she had in Invermere two years ago. Texture is still the talk of the day, but instead of the smoother, longer lines of her travel series, Maya uses her palette knife to get an effect more reminiscent of a mosaic, with small tile-like strokes of colour. Maya plays with the perspective a bit more in these works, giving them a whimsical feel that reminds you of childhood summer days at the cabin.

Maya Eventov’s newest series of works, paintings of birch trees, rounds out this exhibition at the Artym very nicely. Maya’s tree paintings have the most texture of all, with the paint sometimes being several centimeters thick. She captures the knots and texture of the tree bark and even with the stark black and white of the trees. Maya still expresses her love of colour in the background, filling them with blues, yellow and reds that take your breath away. Maya says that she now feels that she is “mature enough to find the beauty in Canada, and in the landscapes I see here.”

You can view all of Maya’s paintings online at www.artymgallery.com.

Boat launch cafe, by Maya Eventov

presents…

Maya Eventov Solo Exhibition Artist in attendance

Friday, March 23rd 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 24th 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

artymgallery.com Ph: 250-342-7566 934 – 7th Avenue

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Brendan Donahue Investment Advisor Phone: 342-2112

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

as of Mar. 19th 3.85% 4.15% 4.16% 4.10% 4.15% 4.15% 4.15%

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

Investments

GICs, Stocks, Bonds, Preferred Shares, Income Trusts, Mutual Funds, High Interest Savings, RRSPs Rates subject to change without notice.

Subject to availability.

Brendan Donahue, BCOMM, CIM, FMA Investment Advisor, Berkshire Securities Inc. 342-2112 Jason Elford, CFP Investment Advisor, Berkshire Investment Group Inc. 342-5052

The Columbia Valley’s Premiere Wealth Management Firm Planning Estate Planning, Retirement Planning, Retirement Projections, Income Splitting, Registered Educational Savings Plans

Services RSP Loans, Mortgage Referrals, Pension Transfers, Group RRSPs.

Ask us about our free consultations and no fee accounts.

March 23, 2007

YOUR MONEY Why interest rates matter

Interest rates have been in the news quite a bit over the past several months. But they can be a confusing subject.

What do interest rates measure, anyway? What happens to the economy—or to your investment portfolio—when rates go up or down? Why are so many people paying attention to them right now?

• What it means to you: Economically speaking, low interest rates are generally a good thing. When rates are low, the stock market usually benefits, as people shift their money from fixed-income investments for the higher returns equities usually provide.

That gives companies the money they need to grow, and when companies grow and create more jobs. In addition, low interest rates makes it easier for companies and governments to service debt. That usually helps everyone—including consumers—to loosen their purse strings and spend more, boosting the economy even further.

For your portfolio, however, low interest rates can be something of a mixed blessing. For equity investors, low interest rates are generally good news. Increased economic activity and business expansion are good for stock prices.

For income investors, however, low interest rates can be a significant burden. Low interest rates mean low returns for bonds and other guaranteed investments. That can force some investors to accept less income from their portfolios, or accept more risk than they would normally be comfortable with in an attempt to make up for low returns.

• Interest rate basics: Before we answer those questions, let’s review some of the fundamentals of interest rates. Essentially, an interest rate measures the price of money—how much it would cost you to “rent” money (i.e. take out a loan) for a year. There are many reasons why rates go up and down. By far the most important of these, however, is inflation—the annual increase in the price of consumer goods and services.

• Inflation and interest rates: When inflation rises, interest rates usually follow suit. Why? Think of it this way: if you lent $1,000 to someone for a year (which is exactly what you do when you buy a bond, a GIC, or other fixed-income investment) you’d want all of it back.

But what if the purchasing power of that $1,000 had diminished by the time your money was returned?

(That’s what inflation does: erodes the purchasing power of money over a given time.)

Naturally, if you were in the business of lending money, you’d want to protect yourself from inflation.

And that’s a very simplified explanation of why interest rates go up. When it looks like things will cost more in a year or two, lenders want to be compensated for that risk. They charge more interest, hoping that the added interest will compensate for the decreased power of their money when they’re eventually repaid.

• The future of interest rates: While it’s important to understand how interest rates will affect your financial position, keep in mind that interest rate movements are notoriously difficult to predict. Instead of trying to guess what rates will do in the next several months, take some time to review your long-term financial goals.

If you’re concerned about the impact interest rates will make on your portfolio, seek professional guidance before making any changes.

Market Action S&P/TSX Composite Index Dow Jones Industrial Average Nikkei Oil (New York) Gold (New York) Canadian Dollar (in US dollars)

As of March 19th, 2007

13,011 12,318 17,009 $56.59 $654.30 $0.8491

Weekly Gain/(Loss)

-53.26 -91.94 -282.45 -$2.32 -$4.00 0.009

YTD

0.80% -1.90% -1.79% -7.30% 2.23% 1.47%

Most people review their Investment portfolio regularly!

When was the last time you reviewed your Life Insurance Portfolio?

In our ever changing world it is important that your insurance is reviewed constantly to ensure that it is the best and most appropriate coverage available.

As one of the valley’s only truly independent Life Insurance brokers, I have access to most of the major carriers and can help you to ensure that you have the best products to suit your needs.

For a complimentary review and to see if we can lower your cost or improve the quality of your existing coverage call me at 342-5052 or just stop in to the Berkshire office and ask to see Jason.

Jason Elford has been a wealth management specialist in Calgary for more than 9 years. Now a full time resident of Invermere, Jason recently joined the Berkshire office with Brendan Donahue and Bruce McLaughlin.

Jason Elford Certified Financial Planner Insurance Advisor 712 - 10th Street, Invermere

Phone: 342-5052

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

March 23, 2007

Marketing seminar not for women only A brand new one-day version of Women’s Enterprise Centre’s highlysuccessful Focused Marketing workshop series will be held in Invermere at the Lions’ Hall on Friday April 20, 2007.

This workshop is presented by Women’s Enterprise Centre in conjunction with Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Columbia Valley Pioneer.

The Women’s Enterprise Centre is B.C.’s leading resource for women who are starting, purchasing or growing a small business.

“Focus Marketing: Targeted Effort, Tangible Results” offers Columbia Valley small businesspeople, men and women alike, a proven method for increasing the power of their marketing in this full-day workshop.

Focused marketing gets at the ‘why’ of marketing. This practical workshop guides you through the process of building a sound marketing strategy for your business. It’s about strategy first, then tactics.

This full-day workshop will help participants: • determine the best customers for your marketing efforts • understand how to connect with and target those customers, both with a message and the marketing tools they will find attractive • match your marketing strategy to your own personal strengths and • discover how to translate your learning directly into a marketing plan and budget for your business for the next 12 months.

The seminar will be held at the Lions’ Hall at the crossroads from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost of $69 will include lunch and a Focused Marketing Learning Guide valued at $59.95.

Meanwhile, if you are a woman business owner in the Columbia Valley area who would enjoy sharing your learning and experience in marketing your small business, the Women’s Enterprise Centre would like to hear from you.

Please contact the centre if you are a seasoned business owner, for at least three years, and have created a marketing strategy in two or more of these ways: • a clear idea of who your target customers are . . . and aren’t!

• a sound understanding of your target customers . . . who they are, why they buy, how they buy, etc.

• developed ways to differentiate yourself from similar businesses . . . how your customers refer you to others.

• determined the most effective ways to reach your customers.

Send your contact information and a note to us describing how your experiences apply to this workshop by March 30, 2007 to the address below.

We’ll select three women to contribute to this truly inspiring workshop.

It’s a great way to showcase your business and to help other women in your business community!

For more information and registration, please visit: www.womensenterprise.ca/fmInvermere. You may also call 1-800-643-7014, ext. 112 to register by telephone.

CLEARANCE

LOTS OF INSTORE CHANGES!

342-9313

Come and see our NEW SPRING STOCK! Men’s & Ladies sizes from 2 - xxx Watch for The Pioneer’s Special Supplement called…

l e u q e S The

Due to popular demand

we will publish another Women in Business advertising supplement on March 30, 2007

Please call Dave Sutherland at (250) 341-6299 to reserve your space!

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

Cranbrook job fair invites employers, students A Business Expo and Job Fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook on Tuesday, March 27th, organized

by Kootenay Business magazine and co-sponsored by the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce and the College of the Rockies.

The Business Expo and Job Fair is a dual-purpose event which both business people and job-

seekers will find helpful and informative. The event starts with the monthly Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce luncheon at 11: 45 p.m. and will be followed by the afternoon Business Expo and Job Fair.

It is open to everyone one who is interested in exploring new business, employment and career opportunities that are in demand in today’s competitive marketplace.

Kootenay Business publisher Keith Powell said some of the region’s largest employers have confirmed their attendance including Interior Health, Elk Valley Coal, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Prestige Inns, and St. Eugene Golf Resort.

For more information contact Kootenay Business at (250) 426-7253 or Sheena Martin at the College of the Rockies, (250) 489-2751.

Take a kid to work The Pioneer’s Advertising Sales Associate Dave Sutherland teaches his son Brandon Davidson the ins and outs of advertising sales during the program “Take A Kid to Work,” sponsored

by David Thompson Secondary School. Brandon, who is in Grade 9 at this high school, spent the day with his father, visiting clients around the valley.

Perhaps we can entice him to work for The Pioneer!

Eaglebrook Grand Opening!

March 30, 31 & April 1 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Announcing the Show Home Opening in the beautiful Eaglebrook development at Fairmont Hot Springs. Featuring Prime Lots and Custom Mountain Homes.

Call 403-554-5592 or 1-800-267-4586 to book an appointment today!

WIN CANDY in The Pioneer’s Easter Basket Colouring Contest Once again kids under 13 years old are invited to participate in The Pioneer’s Easter Colouring Contest.

Colour the picture on the next page and drop it off at The Pioneer’s office at 1008-8th Avenue in Invermere, just down the street from Peppi’s Pizzeria.

This year there will be TWO contests - one for boys, and one for girls - and TWO great prizes.

Jayne Magri, owner of It’s A Wrap, will create a special Easter basket for a boy and another one for a girl. Her gift baskets are beautiful!

Deadline for entries is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 30th.

Since we can’t possibly decide who colours the best, we will draw a boy’s name and a girl’s name and announce the two winners in our Friday, April 6th issue.

Good luck, everyone!

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

March 23, 2007

COLOURING CONTEST SPONSORED BY:

Tasty Fashion Co.

1209 – 7th Ave. 3 – 1206 7th Avenue

342-3479

342-6611

1021 – 7th Avenue

342-9661

342-0383

613-12th St. Invermere

342-2003

342-2468

Colouring Contest Across from the Invermere Post Office

342-9313

1214 – 7th Avenue

342-3262

Bavin Glassworks Come see the changes. #5 Fairmont Village Mall

4884A Athalmer Hwy

345-6133

342-6816

Antiques

Downtown Invermere

Call Lana

342-3865

342-5859

Highway 93/95 Windermere

Name ______________________________________________________________ Age _________________

342-2695

Address ___________________________________________Phone __________________________________ Drop off completed colouring page at The Pioneer Office located at #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere. Contest open to children ages 1 - 12. Contest ends 5 pm, March 30, 2007. Two winners will be drawn and will receive an Easter basket.

www.valleyalley.ca

+

LAMBERT-KIPP

342-7387

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

342-6612

342-6415

Gone

PHARMACY LTD.

2-1020-8th Avenue

Main Street, Invermere

NEW LOCATION IN INVERMERE Call 342-7264

HOLLYWOOD V I D E O

342-9933

342-0057

906 – 7th Ave.

342-3330

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

Book now for the Kinsmen Home Show In addition to the goods and services being exhibited, attendants will enjoy The Great Green Adventure Show hosted by Safari Jeff and Shannon. The animal and reptile show was a hit with families last year, said Mr. Mantyka.

“It’s a lot of fun. People who didn’t catch it last year will have the chance to do so this time.”

Attendants also will be eligible for a $500 cash prize. Nancy Knechtel of Canmore won the money last year, and then donated a portion of it back to the community. Cliff Koski of Wilmer won $134 in the 50/50 draw.

The Home and Recreation Show is the Kinsmen Club’s biggest annual fund-raising event. The proceeds are spread throughout the community.

“They will help to support a variety of causes, including sports, bursaries and programs for seniors,” said Mr. Mantyka.

He said the show gets more popular every year.

“We’re advising prospective exhibitors to book their booth as soon as possible. The show has a way of selling out.”

Exhibitors who have paid for their booths by

By Sandra Kelly Pioneer Staff Planning is under way for the 2007 Home and Recreation Show presented by the Kinsmen Club of the Windermere Valley.

The annual show takes place Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12th at the Eddie MounSteve Mantyka tain Memorial Arena in Invermere.

The doors will be open to the public from 6 to 9 p.m. on the Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the Saturday.

“It’s going to be a great show,” said Steve Mantyka, co-chairperson of the event, along with Kevin DeMan. “We’ve been taking booth applications for about a week now, and we’ve already got 20 bookings.”

I

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•

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April 20th will be eligible to win back the price of the booth. Last year’s winner was The Water Guy, from Cranbrook.

Mr. Mantyka said the show is “a great marketing tool” for businesses.

“This is a show that takes place over two days.

More than a thousand people attended last year. Who would turn down the chance to get that many people through their business in just two days? It’s terrific exposure.”

The arena will open at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 11 for exhibitors only to build their displays. Exhibitors are requested to have their booths set up by no later than 5 p.m. so the doors can open to the public.

Rental of an exhibit space includes access to power, overnight security and three exhibitors passes.

Payment for a booth must be made at the time of application, and no refunds can be issued.

Vehicles, other than for display, will not be allowed in the arena for set-up or take-down.

For more information about the show, call Norma McAndrew at 250-341-1172, or send an e-mail message to nemcan@telus.net.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

March 23, 2007

Bensons buy Rocky Mountain Realty lumbia. Mr. Brown-John said last week he presided over a meeting in Vancouver at which the founBarry Brown-John dation gave away $1.5 and his wife Pat have million to worthy causes. reached an agreement He will also continue his to sell all their shares in work as a member of the Rocky Mountain Realty British Columbia Real to partners Audrey and Estate Association’s GovBarry Benson. ernment Relations ComThe sale is by no mittee. means an end to Mr. Mr. Benson said it Brown-John’s involvewas a mutual agreement ment in the local real that led to the sale and estate market, he said, that he and his wife Aubut brings a transition to drey are excited about valley’s oldest real estate the future. company. “We have had a tran“Nobody has worked Pat and Barry Brown-John, left, have sold their realty business to Audrey and Barry Benson, right. sition strategy in place as steadily as I have in real and we executed that,� estate in the Columbia successful development and continues to be. We Mr. Benson said.

Valley,â€? he said, but real have three to ďŹ ve years left in that.â€?

Westside Park is “It’s going to be continuing business as usual for estate development, philanthropic work, government relations and a desire to begin some kind of retirement the housing development on 13th Avenue in south us. It’s an exciting time and we have a pretty exciting Invermere owned by the Brown-Johns. business.� have eclipsed his interest in the day-to-day market.

Mr. Brown-John is a member of the board of govOn the development front, Mr. Benson said a “Land development is more interesting and chalernors of the Real Estate Foundation of British Colarge subdivision in Canal Flats is in the works. lenging,� he said. “Westside Park has been a very

By Brian Geis Pioneer Sta

Your Local INVERMERE 1022B-7th Ave.

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For professional management of your strata corporation or rental property, overseen by a CertiÀed Property Manager (CPMŽ), CertiÀed Professional Residential Property Manager (CPRPM) and Power Engineer, with the accounting done by a CertiÀed General Accountant, please contact Bill Weissig by phone at 341-4178, or by email at bweissig@mountaincreek.ca.

Our property managers are licensed under the Real Estate Services Act of B.C. For more information regarding their extensive qualiÀcations and experience please go our web site at http://www.mountaincreek.ca.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

VALLEY HISTORY

Looking back at Lake Auto

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Some call it the end of an era - the end of the golden age of auto dealerships in the Windermere Valley, a golden age when a family could shop for a Ford or a Dodge or a GM in as many blocks along Invermere’s Main Street.

At least, it is the end of the era during which the Kloos family sold Fords in Invermere.

The Kloos family, Steve and Maria and kids - Marion, Erwin and Harald - built a successful and long-lived dealership in town. The Kloos’ Lake Auto follows Cleland’s Invermere Ford, Valley GM and Blakely Dodge into our collective memory this spring. Here are a few memories to get you started.

Sitting at the corner of their dining room table in the modest-by-today’sstandards home they built on the hill behind Lake Auto, Steve and Maria Kloos recounted their early days with watery eyes, patiently waiting for the other to finish a thought before adding more detail, often chuckling at the wonder of it all as the tale unfolded.

Steve and Maria Kloos both admit to being old enough to remember the deprivation of post-war Europe. Both grew up on farms in Transylvania, a province of Romania, where their German ancestors had lived for over 850 years.

In 1944, Steve explained, their families lost their land and possessions to Russia and Communism. They were lucky, he said, to escape with their parents to start a new life in Austria.

He studied agricultural engineering and came to Canada with $5 in his pocket. Maria lived in Vienna and followed Steve to Canada in 1957.

The two were married and started a family. What the couple lacked in fortune, they made up in tenacity. Their old-world work ethic, dogged determination and an eye for opportunity would go a long way in getting them through the lean years ahead. The couple settled in Invermere and have never left.

“Canada is the greatest country in

the world,” Steve Kloos commented, still with a touch of his native accent.

“When I got here, I looked around and I said, ‘It looks just like the Alps,’” Maria commented.

After some time working in the bush, Steve decided to retrain as an automotive mechanic and apprenticed in the trade for four years. In 1969, with his mechanic’s certificate under his belt and three kids at home, opportunity knocked and his name was Roy Lake.

Mr. Lake, a welder and Invermere native, started Lake Auto in 1946 after quitting the mine in KimberlEy. By 1968, Mr. Lake had given up his GM dealership and was fixing to retire when he approached the Kloos family about buying his garage.

Steve and Maria took a big chance and bought Lake Auto in 1968.

“In those years, Invermere was very depressed,” Steve remembered. “Mineral King Mine had closed, the sawmills were selling out and the tourist season was only two months long.”

Steve said the fledgling garage couldn’t attract any interest from the Big Three automakers, but Datsun, owned by Nissan of Japan, was expanding into North American and paid Lake Auto a visit. “They were the only one who looked at us,” he said. “They were very helpful.”

“In 1968, I was almost crying. It was so lonely in Invermere,” Maria laughed.

“It was a cold winter. Steve would work in the shop until 10 o’clock at night. I was the bookkeeper, gas pump attendant, mechanic’s assistant and we were raising three children.”

Once, Maria admitted, she even took a job flipping burgers at the dairy in Radium to help make ends meet.

“We could see the opportunity, so we worked hard for it,” Steve said.

“We knew we would make it if we worked hard,” Maria added.

By the early 1970s Cleland’s Invermere Garage, which was located where Portabella Restaurant is today, closed their long-running Ford dealership and went out of business.

In the fall of 1974, a man named

The Kloos family entered the parade with a Lake Auto truck in 1969.

Hiking and camping were a big part of family life.

Neal Simmons walked into the garage and asked if the Klooses wanted to start selling Fords. It was the beginning of a long-lasting relationship and cemented the Columbia Valley’s status as “Ford Country.”

The Clelands began selling Fords since longer than Mr. Kloos can remember, possibly since the 1920s. Except for those few intervening years between Cleland Ford and Lake Auto Ford, Ford has been in the valley ever since . . . until Lake Auto closes its doors this spring.

For a time, three dealerships, with garages and gas pumps, competed for valley drivers within a few blocks of each other, Lake Auto Ford, Blakely Plymouth/Chrysler/Dodge and Valley GM. Blakely Dodge was located on the east side of the intersection of 7th Avenue and Ninth Street. Valley GM was right across the street, where A G Valley Foods stands today.

Continued on Page 21

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

March 23, 2007

VALLEY HISTORY Continued from Page 20 When the kids were young, Mr. Kloos explained, running the shop was a family affair, with everyone helping out at something.

“We all had gas pumps. All the kids worked really hard pumping gas, but they got paid for it and we made sure they put it in a savings account.”

Even Marion pumped gas, Mr. Kloos remembered. One customer told her she was the prettiest gas pump attendant in the Columbia Valley.

Of course, he said, she was the only girl pumping gas at the time.

Both boys apprenticed in the shop, he said.

After the kids grew up, one-by-one they each left home leaving the aging Klooses to run the operation alone.

The empty-nesters, eyeing retirement, were faced with the challenge of modernizing the dealership.

“We decided we wanted out. Computers were coming in and we were getting old.”

Then the kids decided they would come home and take over the operation, a best-case scenario for a parent or business owner.

“We were lucky they came back or we would have had to sell it,” Mr. Kloos said.

The years didn’t pass without their share of disagreements, Steve and Maria agreed, but the tenacious duo had a method in place for resolving disputes.

“There are always going to be disagreements,” Maria explained, “but you have a meeting and you reach a conclusion. Whenever you have a disagreement, never talk about it in front of the customers or your kids. It makes them worry.

“You say, not now, we’re going to talk about this tonight. Then, after you’ve calmed down you can think more clearly. That’s what I taught my kids and I hope they teach their kids.”

The issues surrounding the closure of Lake Auto were clearly thought out and well-publicized.

The manufacturer wouldn’t support a new building to replace the existing facility, which the dealership had long out-grown. Building a new facility on their own could take another 20 years to

pay off and the grandkids were branching off in other non-automotive directions.

Operating a small-town dealership can be challenging and sometimes more difficult than running a high-volume dealership, Mr. Kloos explained.

“It’s nerve-wracking sometimes.

You can lose your mind over it.”

Today’s cars are so technologically advanced, Mr. Kloos commented, the cost of running a small-town dealership can rival their big-city counterparts.

You still need the same special tools, special computers, special training.

“It’s hard for a small dealer. They’re not really mechanics working on your car anymore. They are technicians, really.”

In today’s business climate, it’s hard to imagine some of the hard times that have befallen our communities, but Lake Auto, through wise decision-making has weathered them all.

A recession in the early 1980 brought lean times to the valley. Mr. Kloos said he was set to borrow money to expand his building to the south, but interest rates were peaking at 22 per cent at the time.

Instead, he invested his money in Canada and earned a handsome return.

The tourist economy, Mr. Kloos said, saved Invermere from complete disaster. Other towns across Canada weren’t as lucky.

Through the years, the Klooses remembered, there were some unforgettable employees that came and went.

Lenny Harman was one such employee.

Harmon was a legendary pump jockey, a real johnny-on-the-ball, Mr. Kloos recalled.

He would see a car coming and beat it to the pump. “The Calgarians loved him. They called him the Two-Second Kid. I felt so bad when he left. He was the one of those you never forget.”

The saddest part about closing is that the business, Mr. Kloos explained, is that it won’t be there for his grandchildren.

In Europe, he said, when you start in business, you stay in the business for generations.

Steve and Maria Kloos should be proud that Lake Auto lasted for two generations.

Steve Kloos on David Thompson Day, 1971.

The garage and showroom as it looked in 1975.

The Kloos family together in 1993.

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

WATER CO. LTD. • Drinking Water Systems • Water Softeners • Whole House or Specialised Filtration Call (250) 342-5089 385 Laurier Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Dog Control Officer (Part-time Contract Position)

THE OPPORTUNITY:

We have a vacancy for a Dog Control Officer to enforce dog control bylaws within the District of Invermere boundaries. This is a part-time contracted position working as required and on-call 7 days per week and may include holidays.

THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT:

The successful applicant will demonstrate the ability to apply bylaws and an understanding of the legal system and procedures involved with enforcement of bylaws pertaining to dog control. Completion of related courses such as bylaw enforcement would be an asset. We also require a Class 5 driver’s license, ability to meet the mobility and lifting requirements of the position and ability to meet call-out requirements.

You must also supply a kennel and a vehicle (compensation will be provided for mileage).

Interested persons are invited to submit letters of application and resumes including related experience by Friday, March 30th, 2007 to: Chris Prosser, CAO, District Of Invermere P.O. Box 339 (914 – 8th Avenue) Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 or cao@invermere.net

NAVIGABLE WATERS PROTECTIONS ACT R.S.C 1985, CHAPTER N-22 The Beaches Property Development Ltd. hereby gives notice that an application has been made to the Minister of Transport pursuant to the Navigable Waters Protection Act for approval of the work described herein and its site and plans.

Pursuant to section 9 of the said Act, The Beaches Property Development Ltd. has deposited with the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and in the Government Agent Ofce at Invermere, B.C., under deposit number 1000008 a description of the following work, its site and plans: proposed seasonal marina (dock) facility, on Lake Windermere at 4686 Windermere Rd. in front of Lot 1, DL8, KD, Plan NEP80948.

Comments regarding the effect of this work on marine navigation may be directed to: The Superintendent, Navigable Waters Protection Program, Transport Canada, 620 - 800 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2J8. However, comments will be considered only if they are in writing and received no later than 30 days after the date of this notice. Although all comments conforming to the above will be considered, no individual response will be sent.

THIS SPACE IS AVAILABLE! Call 341-6299

Lifelong skiers Peter and Jane Lustenberger of Invermere, parents of two well-known ski racing daughters Andrea and Christina, continue as tireless volunteers with the Windermere Valley Ski Club.

Photo by Andrew Wheelhouse

Ski Club needs your help

By Stephanie Stevens Special to The Pioneer How does a long weekend of the most amazing packed lunches in the world, up to $100 off your Panorama season’s pass, a free lift ticket every day, posh socials each afternoon and all the Mars bars you can eat catch your fancy?

OK, so the socials are not that posh, but all the rest of it is true.

Well, all this and more can be yours for nothing more than volunteering a few hours a day for four days.

And you get that extra special feeling that only volunteerism can bring.

The Mars Cup B.C. Alpine Spring Series Race is set for March 30 to April 2, and Chief of Race Cheryl Willard is in the process of drumming up enough volunteers to make the event go off without a hitch, as well as make it as much fun as possible for everyone involved.

“We really do need 100 each day to make the series run smoothly,” Cheryl said.

“And the more help we have, the better the race quality will be for the participants, as well as the volunteers.”

The Mars Cup will see about 280 racers from all over the world at Panorama Mountain Village, including eight local athletes from the Windermere Valley Ski Club, the race host.

This is the last big race of the year for Federation Internationale de Ski (FSI) level racers.

The minimum age for a federation racer is 15, and in this series, Cheryl said there will be racers who represent their countries at the national level.

Though none of the Canadian National Ski Team will be here, there will be members of the National Development Team, as well as the B.C. and Alberta ski teams.

Windermere Valley Ski Club members Ashley Willard, Madison Simek, Britlyn Pomeroy, Alexa Jaeger, James Rose, Dane Petersen, Trevor Rose and Ben Thompsen will be racing. Both Trevor Rose and Ben Thompsen are now at the provincial level.

“The Thursday prior to the race we are in dire need of some muscles to set up the courses,” Cheryl said. “But that is the only really physically demanding volunteer day.”

The Friday to Monday volunteer spots will range from working the course, gate judging, delivering hot chocolate and cookies to other volunteers, working in the hospitality room and some administrative and timing duties.

“You can be inside or outside, skiing or not skiing.

It is totally up to you,” Cheryl said.

“It really is a lot of fun and it’s a great group of people to spend time with while supporting our young athletes.”

For more information or to volunteer, call Gordon Bagan at 342-9450 or go to www.skihome.ca/wvsc.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

March 23, 2007

Golf courses greened up and ready for play

By Shannon Pearson Special to the Pioneer Flagging from around the greens is gone, the elk droppings shovelled, and the plastic bags from the hole markers tossed. All these signs tell avid golfers to pull out and polish up their clubs, and clean out last year’s dirt and grass from their cleats.

Once again, The Pioneer has compiled the information on the local courses from Canal Flats to Spur Valley, and everything in between – just for those who love to get out and “whack a few.”

Note: Opening dates are weather-dependent and subject to change. Phone individual courses for tee times and questions. Courses listed in alphabetical order.

Copper Point Golf Club Opening Date: Driving range opens March 23, course opens March 30.

What’s New: New Pro Rick Crowson; newly-paved pathways; new fleet of electric, GPS-equipped carts.

For information: 341-3392

Coy’s Par 3, Fairmont Opening Date: Restaurant open March 25th, course expected to open March 25th.

For information: 345-6504

Creekside Golf Course, Fairmont Opening Date: March 30th For information: 345-6660

Eagle Ranch Golf Resort Opening Date: April 5th What’s New: The new clubhouse will open with the course on April 5th. New electric golf carts. Hole ten will be open for play May 15th as a par 4, and a new hole 11 will also be open May 15th for play.

For information: Call 1-877-877-3889 or 3420820

Edgewater Hilltop Par 3 Opening Date: April 6th What’s New: Enlarged outdoor deck.

For information: 347-6502

Th’ Flats Golf Course, Canal Flats Opening Date: March 30th For information: 349-5266

Greywolf Golf Course, Panorama Opening Date: May 11th What’s New: 90 new electric golf carts, greens replaced in the fall wintered well.

For information: 341-4100.

Life Time Warranty on all Blinds Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

ATTENTION, GOLFERS! If you have results from a 2007 tournament or other golfing event you would like to see published in The Pioneer, call 341-6299 or Email: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Mountainside Golf Course, Fairmont Opening Date: April 6th For information: 345-6514

The Resort Course, Radium Opening Date: March 30th What’s New: New line of women’s clothing.

For information: 347-6266.

The Ridge at Copper Point Opening Date: September 7th, 2007

Riverside Golf Resort, Fairmont Opening Date: March 20th What’s New: New fleet of electric golf carts; many activities planned for Riverside Golf Resort’s 20th anniversary year, including partnering with the Canadian Cancer Society on this special anniversary year by hosting a Charity Golf Tournament.

For information: 345-6346

Setetkwa Golf Course Opening Date: Open now.

For information: No need to call, just show up!

The Springs Course, Radium Opening Date: March 23rd What’s New: New club fitting system.

For information: 347-6200.

Spur Valley Greens, Spur Valley Opening Date: April 5th For information: 347-6500

Windermere Valley Golf Course Opening Date: March 19th.

What’s New: Course came through the winter well.

Same friendly staff and green fees still under $30.

For information: 342-3004

NOW OPEN!

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Player friendly, walkable and affordable!

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NOW OPEN Come in relax and enjoy some tantalizing food before or after golf.

Tee Times • (250) 342-3004

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

March 23, 2007

AROUND THE VALLEY Caring for our precious wetlands

Gary Glinz, Section Head for Parks and Protected Areas for the Kootenay Region, within The Columbia wetthe provincial Ministry of lands are a complex of rivEnvironment, noted: “We er channels and wetlands do not see this as an unthat stretch from Canal loading of our responsibilFlats to Donald, north ity to be the lead agency of Golden. It is unique in matters of management natural system that rarely and stewardship; on the receives the attention it contrary we take our fidudeserves. ciary responsibility seriThat may have ously and see the collecchanged on March 6th, tive input of all who have when 35 representatives an interest in the wetlands from a wide range of intercontributing to the better est groups and four levels decisions and actions that of government gathered we ultimately must take.” in Radium to discuss the Spillimacheen rancher formation of a cooperaPaul Galbraith observed: tive management group “You could see here today that would provide input the passion that everyone to the stewardship of this brings to the topic of the internationally-significant wetlands and it was posiwetland system.

This spectacular view of our wetlands was photographed by Larry Halvorsen of Invermere. tive for to see so much inFour federal agencies, terest expressed.” three provincial governWetlands Wildlife Management Area, which is manGolden Mayor Jim Doyle reflected: “I think the ment agencies, ranchers, Tembec, two regional district aged by the B.C. Ministry of the Environment. Howlate Ian Jack is here with us today and I can hear him representatives, three municipal representatives and ever, there are also significant areas of federal land reminding us all of the tremendous values associated several citizen groups attended the meeting. managed by the Canadian Wildlife Service. with the Columbia Wetlands, at the end of the day we Radium Mayor Greg Deck welcomed the group Federal agencies also have responsibilities for have more that unites us in stewarding this wonderful and commended their ongoing dedication to the wetthe migratory birds that use the wetlands and there place, than divides us. I am encouraged by that.” lands and for their collective willingness to work toare shared federal and provincial responsibilities for The Columbia Wetlands Cooperative Managegether on the future of this magnificent natural area. the management of the Columbia River that flows ment Group will begin its work May 8th during the Deputy Minister of B.C. Environment Nancy through the area.

Wings Over the Rockies Bird Festival.

Wilken forwarded a written welcome to the group There are also significant areas in and adjacent to For more information, contact: Gary Glinz (489that presented her thoughts on the benefits of a coopthe wetlands that are private land in the form of resort 8591), Bob Jamieson (422-3322) or Paul Galbraith erative approach to shared stewardship. communities, industrial sites (logging mills), small (346-3100).

Most of this landscape is part of the Columbia residential holdings and ranches.

Submitted

by Bob Jamieson

Please watch for bald eagle nests

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Program wants your sightings of active bald eagle nests in the Columbia Basin.

Since 2002, the program has been funding a Great Blue Heron Breeding Inventory and Stewardship Project in the Columbia basin, as part of its mandate to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife populations impacted by the construction of B.C. Hydro dams.

The work so far confirms a 25-percent decline in the number of heron breeding sites in the basin from 2002 to 2006. Although the number of active nests appears

stable and may have grown slightly, the rate of breeding nest failures has increased substantially.

In 2006, 43 percent of all active nests failed to produce young. Of more concern is that 62 percent of all active nests in the East Kootenay failed last year.

Failure rates appear to be related to human factors (e.g., road-building, forest harvesting and wetland drainage associated with development) and/or harrassment and predation by bald eagles.

In an effort to better understand the relationship between heron nest failure

rates and bald eagle population size and distribution in the basin, the program is conducting eagle nest surveys in 2007.

“We are hoping to draw on the knowledge of local residents to help develop this inventory by asking them to report sightings of active eagle nests,” says project leader Marlene Machmer.

Residents are asked to telephone Marlene at (250) 354-0150 or email (mmachmer@netidea.com) to report their eagle nest sightings.

They can also be submitted on-line at www.fwcp.ca until June 30, 2007.

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

A M

March 23, 2007

H C R

IT’S CRAZY...

Not only do you get these great savings you also get your choice of:

• up tp $1,500 in Mopar accessories • or up to $1,000 in gas or up to $750 in cash It’s madness what the Dodge Boys are doing with the prices on their New & Used vehicles

TAKE A TRIP ON US!

Anybody who lives in and around the surrounding Invermere area and purchases or leases a new or used vehicle from Cranbrook Dodge will receive a free night at St. Eugene which also comes with a meal voucher and casino bucks coutresy of Cranbrook Dodge.

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$599.00 plus tax

per month for 48 months $4,400 down payment $0 Security Deposit

5.9%

$49,959

00

Plus Applicable Taxes STOCK NO. T07240

2007 DAKOTA QC ST 4X4 • Convenience Group • Special Edition Group • Anti-Spin Differential • 3.7 V6 Magnum

OPTION TWO

Purchase Price

$32,534

STOCK NO. T07142

00

Lease APR.

Plus Applicable Taxes

0%

LEASE ME

$299.00 plus tax

per month for 24 months $3,800 down payment $0 Security Deposit

2007 JEEP LIBERTY SPORT 4X4 • Special Edition Group • 3.7 L V6 Engine • Automatic

OPTION THREE

Purchase Price

LEASE ME

$299.00 plus tax per month for 48 months $3,900 down payment $0 Security Deposit

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Lease APR.

0%

$31,995

Plus Applicable Taxes

STOCK NO. T07141

To purchase at lease end $25,946.35, plus appliacble taxes, Total paid $33,183.82 plus applicable taxes To purchase at lease end $21,216.40, plus appliacble taxes, Total paid $10,976 plus applicable taxes To purchase at lease end $13,204.00, plus appliacble taxes, Total paid $18,264.26 plus applicable taxes

COME SEE THE DODGE BOYS Alvin Benjamin Sales/Lease Consultant

95

Jace Pierson Sales/Lease Consultant

Don Murdock Sales/Lease Consultant

Larry Schalk Sales/Lease Consultant

Buck Zroback Sales/Lease Consultant

Justin Griffin Sales/Lease Consultant

David Thompson Steve Mercandelli Sales Financial Manager Services Manager

Dave Girling General Manager

GRAB LIFE

BY THE HORNS 1725 Cranbrook St., Cranbrook, BC V1C 3S9 Phone: 426-6614 • 1-800-663-2268 www.cranbrookdodge.com

WHERE SUPER SERVICE IS STANDARD EQUIPMENT

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

March 23, 2007

Lantern Festival lights up Kimberley The Taiwanese Lantern Festival is being held in Kimberley, with the help of the Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Society, School District 6 and the Kimberley Chamber of Commerce. The week-long festival started Tuesday and will run until Monday, March 26th from noon until 8 p.m. each day.

The Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Society is pro-

viding over $10,000 worth of lanterns for the Kimberley Festival. It is being presented at McKim Middle School, where you can also visit the booths of some of Kimberley’s talented artisans. The lantern display starts in the theatre where the lanterns will be unveiled.

For information, please call (250) 427-3666 or toll-free 1-866-913-3666.

It’s a SHORT DRIVE to…

Glowing monkey looks a little frightening.

BIG SAVINGS FEATURE OF THE WEEK

D L SO

2004 Dodge 3500 Laramie LWB

Sorry – SOLD We also have a 2003 Laramie at

$ 36,956 40,995

$

Quad Cab • 4x4 • Loaded

• Diesel • 6 speed • leather • insulated canopy • spray liner • only 76,000 kms

AT CHALET GM THERE IS A HUGE SELECTION OF USED VEHICLES – ALWAYS UNDER $10,000

Lanterns shaped like flowers and animals.

2004 CAVALIER COUPE STK#7951 Now $9,900 2003 SUNFIRE SEDAN STK#6960 Now $7,500 2002 CAVALIER SEDAN STK#6508 Now $8,500 2002 CAVALIER SEDAN STK#5949 Now $7,900 1999 TAURUS WAGON STK#11184 Now $5,995 1997 GRAND MARQUIS STK#9508 Now $6,800 1996 NEON SEDAN STK#10500 Now $3,500 1995 DODGE AVENGER ES STK#11423, low kms Now $9,995 1994 FORD ESCORT STK#11324, 2 dr.

Now $2,800 2000 DODGE CARAVAN STK#11174 Now $8,500 2000 FORD WINDSTAR GL STK#7427 Now $6,500 1996 MAZDA MPV AWD STK#11066 Now $7,500 1999 FORD EXPLORER XLT STK#11109 Now $7,995 1993 CHEV EXT. CAB 4X4 STK#11081 Now $4,500

$10,001 – $20,000

2003 CHEV MALIBU SEDAN STK#8307 Now $10,995 2003 PONTIAC GRAND AM STK#9995, sedan Now $11,500 2003 TOYOTA ECHO STK#11034 Now $12,995 2002 PONTIAC GRAND AM GT STK#10927 Now $13,995 2002 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX STK#7257 Now $10,993 2001 CHEV IMPALA SEDAN STK#5076 Now $10,900 1998 PONTIAC SUNFIRE GT STK#10900, converrtible Now $10,995 2004 FORD RANGER/C 4X4 STK#10755 Now $19,995 2001 CHEV S10 E/C 4X2 STK#4771 Now $13,995 2005 JEEP TJ DUAL TOPS STK#11349 Now $17,995 1998 GMC SLE E/C 4X4 STK#3500 Now $12,995 2001 DODGE 3/4 R/C 4X4 STK#11366 Now $16,847

2006 BUICK ALLURE CX STK#11320 Now $19,696 2006 CHEV HHR STK#10694 Now $19,995 2005 CHEV MALIBU LS STK#10573 Now $15,999 2006 PONTIAC PURSUIT STK#11412, Sedan Now $14,998 2005 BUICK CENTURY STK#10409 Now $15,995 2005 CHEV MALIBU LS STK#10573 Now $14,999 2005 KIA RIO STK#10967 Now $10,995 2005 PONTIAC GRAND AM STK#10216 Now $14,995 2005 PONTIAC SUNFIRE STK#10403, sedan Now $12,900 2005 PONTIAC SUNFIRE STK#9993, coupe Now $12,900 2005 TOYOTA ECHO STK#11375 Now $14,500 2004 CHEV IMPALA STK#9199 Now $13,500 2004 MAZDA 6 GT SEDAN $20,001 – $30,000 STK#10807 Now $16,950 2004 FORD FOCUS ZX5 2006 CHEV IMPALA LTZ STK#11380 Now $12,935 STK#11157 Now $23,995

D SOL

D SOL

D SOL

For more information contact: Peter Kleindienst, Dan McConnell, Daniel Powell or Rick Prasad.

We would be pleased to help.

Tropical fish swims among lighted reeds.

2006 CHEV IMPALA LT STK#11158 Now $21,995 2006 CHEV IMPALA LT STK#11308 Now $22,495 2006 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX STK#11308 Now $25,995 2005 FORD MUSTANG GT STK#10578, Convertible Now $29,995 2006 PONTIAC MONTANA

D SOL

Your choice of 2

Now $19,888 2006 PONTIAC MONTANA STK#11318/11151

Your choice of 2, all wheel drive

2006 DODGE 3/4 TON Q/C STK#11391 Now $29,959 2005 GMC SLE EXT CAB STK#11289, 4x4, 3/4 Now $27,500 2004 GMC SWB EXT CAB STK#11288 Now $24,500 2004 GMC SWB CREWCAB STK#8005, Diesel, 4x4 Now $28,900 2003 GMC SWB CREWCAB STK#9536, Diesel, 4x4 Now $28,900 2004 DODGE/ Q/C HEMI STK#9971 Now $27,500 2004 GMC SLE EXT CAB STK#8296, 4x4 Now $25,985 2006 BUICK TERAZZA AWD STK#11020 Now $27,888

Now $25,888 2006 PONTIAC MONTANA STK#11151 Now $23,995 2006 BUICK RENDEZVOUS $30,001 AND UP STK#11152, FWD Now $21,999 2006 CADILLAC ESCALADE 2006 CHEV TRAILBLAZER Your choice of 2, 1 short, 1 extended STK#10636, Ext. Now $26,809 STK#10763/110000 Now $49,999 2006 CHEV TRAILBLAZER 2006 YUKON XL SLT 4X4 Your choice of 2 Now $44,999 Now $24,888 STK#11121 STK#10639/11019 2004 DODGE 3500 LARAMIE 2006 GMC ENVOY STK#11001/10712

D SOL

D SOL

Diesel, Quad Cab STK#11420

Now $26,888 Now $40,995 2006 PONTIAC TORRENT 2003 DODGE 3500 LARAMIE STK#11306 Now $27,500 Diesel, Quad Cab, 4x4 STK#11431 2006 CHEV EQUINOX AWD Now $36,956 STK#11220 Now $21,853 2006 CHEV EXT CAB 4X4 2003 JEEP LIBERTY RENEGADE Your choice of 4, STK#11327/11328/11291/11442 STK#11363 Now $19,933 Now $31,888 STK#11172

KIMBERLEY 427-4895 CRANBROOK 489-2525 OUT OF TOWN 1-800-388-1156

VISIT OUR PARTS & SERVICE DEPARTMENT MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“The Preferred Service Providers”

E-mail address: chaletgm@shawlink.ca • 1142-304th St., Kimberley, BC V1A 3E1 • DL No 6340 CHALET CHEV-OLDS LTD.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

s

Young or old…

Every Bunny s s Loves Some Bunny!

Show them how much with a

Customized Easter Basket

342-3160 No more searching for the lowest mortgage rates…

Great rates, products and service www.meridianmortgagesolutions.com

Bill Rainbow Mortgage Broker (250) 342-3453

An invitation to the introduction of “The Marriage Course” and the “Marriage Preparation Course” Couples please join us on Thursday, March 29th, 2007 in the Radium Seniors Hall – 4836 Stanley Street, Radium Hot Springs. Supper will be served at 6:30 p.m.

Followed by a video explaining what the couses are about.

RVSP by March 24th, 2007. Call Mike & Linda 342-6359 or Warner & Dianne 346-3294.

Hosted by Radium Christian Fellowship.

Pastors Wayne & Linda Frater 342-6633.

In association with On Top Productions presents…

New Moon

Appearing Tonight at 8:00 p.m

Join us, starting tomorrow for Saturday Night Jams Open mic with Brian Morris

1 KM south of Fairmont at the Hoodoos (formerly TJ’s Pizza)

Top row, from left to right: Fran Ryan, Gertie Friesen, Wendy Badley, Jill Unger, Sylvia Walker, Terry Eacrett, Joan Birket, and Judy Collins. Bottom row, left to right: Ali Wycotte, Jean Hankel, and Jennifer Carriere.

Chronic disease training held Chronic Disease Self-Management Program Leadership Training took place in Invermere during February, funded by the University of Victoria’s Centre on Aging and the BC Ministry of Health Services.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program means living a healthy, happier life. The free sessions are led in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere with two co-leaders, once a week for two hours, for six consecutive weeks.

We encourage you to bring your partner, family members or friends as this program will help everyone

understand their symptoms better, while providing many alternative methods for more enjoyable living each and every day!

All certified leaders are trained volunteers who work in pairs following a standardized course outline.

Many leaders have chronic conditions themselves and are a testament to the success of the program.

Watch for session dates to be announced in upcoming issues of The Pioneer. Seating is limited so register by calling toll-free at 1-866-902-3767, for information and location dates, or locally at 342-0445.

Hospital district sets 2007 budget The Kootenay East Regional Hospital District has adopted its annual budget for 2007.

The total operating budget for this year is $4.9 million. This means a decrease from last year’s $3.9 million, mainly due to payments on debt related to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital upgrade.

“The largest funding project on our list was the continued expansion and renovation of the East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook,” says hospital board chair Scott Manjak. “With the necessary upgrades underway, we are confident that more of the needs of the people in the region are being met and we can continue on to the next items on our list.” Improvements are already noticeable at the front entrance, emergency room and lab areas.

Funding will also be provided to health facilities for requirements such as ultrasound machines at

the East Kootenay Regional and plans for an emergency room upgrade at the Invermere Hospital.

The average tax rate for the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District will work out to about $29 on a $100,000 property. As well, residents will continue to see a levy for the East Kootenay Regional Hospital District on their tax notices to pay off debt incurred before January 1996. The rate for this year will be at about $9 on a $100,000 residence.

The Kootenay East Regional Hospital District covers a large area including the regional district, the towns of Creston and Golden and surrounding rural communities. The function of the Hospital District is to provide partial funding for equipment and construction projects at health care facilities within this area, with the remaining portion of the cost covered by the Interior Health Authority.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

March 23, 2007

2007 Map Books flying off the shelves

By Pioneer Staff The 2007 Columbia Valley Map Books have arrived two weeks early!

Local distribution began Friday, March 16th – just in time for this province’s Spring Break.

Sixteen thousand copies have already been delivered to locations in Calgary and Edmonton, and local distributors David and Florence Raven are taking them to almost every business in the valley.

If you have not yet received any Map Books and would like to do so, please call the Ravens directly at 342-6187 or give us a call at The Pioneer, 341-6299.

About 75,000 copies will be distributed to residents and tourists in the valley, and the remaining Map Books are being mailed to Visitor Centres across Western Canada and the United States.

The 2007 issue will continue to be distributed throughout the year and will run out next March just before the arrival of the 2008 edition.

This is the first year the Map Book has been published by Abel Creek Inc., the parent company belonging to publisher Elinor Florence, who also publishes the Columbia Valley Pioneer. The Map Book was purchased last year from Marlene Chabot of Mackena Creative in Invermere.

“The 2007 Map Book contains updated maps with the addition of new streets – such as all the new

streets in the Eagle Ranch subdivision and the Columbia Ridge subdivision,” said Elinor.

“We also added individual streets that had been missed in previous editions. For instance, Peter McIsaac is the only resident of his street and he asked us to add 15A Crescent in Invermere, which we did!”

She urged all residents to check the map of their own neighbourhood and call or Email her at The Pioneer so the maps can be changed for next year’s issue if there are any errors or omissions.

“Just like the newspaper, we can really use the help of our readers to keep us accurate,” she said.

The durable digest-sized 104-page book on heavy gloss paper that doesn’t wrinkle can be kept in purses, glove compartments or bookshelves.

Elinor said locals love the Map Book because it helps them find their way around. “Garage sales require the use of a good map. Some brides even send the Map Book along with their wedding invitations to out-of-town guests.”

Invitations have now been sent to more than 100 businesses that chose to advertise in this year’s Map Book. A wine-and-cheese party with door prizes - including a full-page advertisement in The Pioneer - will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 30th at Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

“We wanted to thank the businesses that invest in this valuable marketing tool, and we also thought it would be a great way for all of us to get together and do a little visiting before the busy summer season starts,” Elinor said.

A copy of the gicleé print “Cobalt Lake – The Bugaboos” by Elizabeth Wiltzen which appears on the cover of this year’s Map Book will also be available for sale at the event. Proceeds from the gicleé prints will be donated to the Invermere Public Library to help pay for the proposed new combination performing arts centre and public library.

We are pleased to announce the EARLY ARRIVAL of the

100,000 copies are now being distributed throughout the Columbia Valley and Western Canada!

Featuring NEW MAPS, VALLEY HISTORY, EVENT LISTINGS, AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION.

341-6299 OR call our distributors direct at 342-6187 Please call The Pioneer at

if you would like copies delivered to your business.

30 â&#x20AC;˘ The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU NEW

Complete Automotive Repairs

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Phone:

342-6614 â&#x20AC;˘ www.autowyze.com

Sewer/Drain Cleaning

Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals â&#x20AC;˘ Complete sewer/drain repair â&#x20AC;˘ Reasonable rates - Seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; discount â&#x20AC;˘ Speedy service - 7 days a week â&#x20AC;˘ A well-maintained septic system should be pumped every 3-5 years â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid costly repairs

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357

CLUB TOWING

)&"7: "/% -*()5 508*/( "/% 3&$07&3: :FBST 4FSWJOH UIF 7BMMFZ

K.I.S.S. LANDSCAPING Specializing in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;One of a Kindâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ART YOU WEAR Located in INVERMERE, BC Across from the AIRPORT, next to Texâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coffee & BAVIN GLASS for store hours Phone: (250) 342-5043 or 342-5347

www.deannagauthier.com

â&#x20AC;˘ Yard & Construction Site Clean-up â&#x20AC;˘ 12,000 lb Dump Trailer â&#x20AC;˘ Bobcat Services â&#x20AC;˘ Angle Broom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Parking Lots, Driveways and Sidewalks

Ph: 347-9385 â&#x20AC;˘ Cell: 342-5912

Need Blinds?

Interior World

NEW LOCATION Full Service Salon

window fashions

Excellent rates! Call 342-7264

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

Mountain Gate â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can helpâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ General construction contracting with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Can Doâ&#x20AC;? approach â&#x20AC;˘ General contracting/project management â&#x20AC;˘ Computer drafting and design from foundations to ďŹ nal completion.

Ph: (250) 342-1120

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ESSO Automotive Repairs 7 days a week

GAS â&#x20AC;˘ PROPANE â&#x20AC;˘ DIESEL Freight & Passenger Depot

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

(250) 347-9726

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228 BOX 459 742 - 13th STREET 7559 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 â&#x20AC;˘ Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

Pattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greenhouse &

Projects

For all your residential & commercial needsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Lambert

Landscaping

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Truck Mounted System â&#x20AC;˘ Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Dean Hubman

CertiďŹ ed Technician

342-3052

RR3, 4874 Ridge Cres.

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

WINDERMERE 342-6805

â&#x20AC;˘ Irrigation â&#x20AC;˘ Bobcat Services â&#x20AC;˘ Trees and Shrubs â&#x20AC;˘ Perennials

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Native Plantings Installations Annuals Hanging Baskets Insured

Phone Shawn or Patty at 250.346.3399 or 341.1860 2362 Brisco Road, Brisco

TOTAL HEATING & Air Conditioning

Servicing the New Home Construction Industry Call 688-7899

The Columbia Valley Pioneer â&#x20AC;˘ 31

March 23, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU Fine Homeservices will help you stay on top of your world Shizu E. M. Futa, Touch for Health Level 2 touchingtranquility@yahoo.ca

Mustard Seed Health Foods,

#103 Parkside Place, 901 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please phone (250) 342-2552 for an appointment

VACUFLO (250) 342-9207

Great Selection of:

335 - 3rd Ave., Invermere, BC Telephone 342-6264 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 342-3546 Email: info@warwick-interiors.com www.warwick-interiors.com

Bennett Construction

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

For all your interior decorating needs.

Floor Covering & Cabinets Blinds & Paints

Growing with the Tradition of Quality

â&#x20AC;˘ Framing â&#x20AC;˘ Renovations â&#x20AC;˘ Decks â&#x20AC;˘ Exterior Finishing

Tamara Osborne Brenda McEachern.

Kristoffer Bennett (250) 341-5030

Phone /Fax

345-6422

krisbennettconstruction@hotmail.com

We arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the cheapest, JUST THE BEST!

â&#x20AC;˘ POOLS â&#x20AC;˘ HOT TUBS â&#x20AC;˘ CHEMICALS â&#x20AC;˘ FIREPLACES â&#x20AC;˘ BBQ¡S â&#x20AC;˘ HEATING â&#x20AC;˘ VENTILATION â&#x20AC;˘ AIR CONDITIONING â&#x20AC;˘ RESIDENTIAL â&#x20AC;˘ 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

Call NOW:

688-0213

â&#x20AC;˘ Carpets dry in about 1 hour! â&#x20AC;˘ 100% guaranteed! â&#x20AC;˘ Low Moisture â&#x20AC;˘ No Steam â&#x20AC;˘ No Sticky Residue â&#x20AC;˘ Upholstery â&#x20AC;˘ Area Rugs â&#x20AC;˘ Wood & Tile Floors â&#x20AC;˘ Vehicle Interiors â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates See more online at www.heavensbest.ca

LAMBERT-KIPP PHARMACY LTD. 4966 Fairmont Frontage, Fairmont Hot Springs

345-6600

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

Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy Come in and browse our giftware

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

342-6612

Canada Philippines Japan â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ Custom Builders â&#x20AC;˘ Foundations â&#x20AC;˘ Framing/Timber â&#x20AC;˘ Decks/Stairs â&#x20AC;˘ Finishing â&#x20AC;˘ Paint/Laquer â&#x20AC;˘ Safety Insured

OfďŹ ce: 250.342.9764 Cell: 250.688.1888 Fax: 250.342-9764 Cell: 250.270.0217 E-mail: niknokbros@shaw.ca

Residential & Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Flood Restoration â&#x20AC;˘ Window Tinting

Jason Roe

Dry Cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Laundry â&#x20AC;˘ Alterations Repair â&#x20AC;˘ Bachelor Service

Phone: 342-6610 â&#x20AC;˘ 507A - 7th Ave., Invermere

0F%ULGH 5HDOW\ &HQWHU /WG $IILOLDWHG %URNHU IRU &DEHODÂśV 7URSK\ 3URSHUWLHV //& 0DLQ 6WUHHW 3 2 %R[ 0F%ULGH % & 9 - ( 7ROO )UHH &HOO )D[

(PDLO EHYDQ#PFEULGHUHDOW\ FRP :HEVLWH ZZZ PFEULGHUHDOW\ FRP 7LPH 6KDUH 5HVDOHÂśV ZZZ WLPHVKDUHEX\QVHOO FRP

%HYDQ 2OVRQ 6DOHV 5HSUHVHQWDWLYH .RRRWHQD\ &ROXPELD

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

Rug Cleaners â&#x20AC;˘

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

Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd.

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

FOR ALL YOUR RENTAL NEEDS! Tampers ~ Skid Steer ~ Mini Hoe ~ Aerators ~ Material Handler ~ Scaffolding ~ Power Washers ~ and lots more!

HIGHWAY 93/95 WINDERMERE (Next to the Skookum Inn)

Telephone (250) 342-4426

32 â&#x20AC;¢ The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU INVERMERE GLASS LTD. â&#x20AC;¢Auto â&#x20AC;¢ Home â&#x20AC;¢ Commercial â&#x20AC;¢ Mirrors â&#x20AC;¢ Shower Doors â&#x20AC;¢ 27 years glass experience Jeff Watson

Telephone: 342-3659

Serving the Valley for over 11 years â&#x20AC;¢ #3, 109 Industrial Road #2, Invermere

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

Invermere

(250) 341-6888

www.cordnerarchitect.com

403 - 7th Avenue Invermere, BC

Avion

/P KPC UPP TNBMM

Construction Ltd.

f %SJWFXBZ 1SFQ e f -BOETDBQJOH -BOETIBQJOH e f :BSE $MFBO VQ e f 4OPX 3FNPWBM e f $PNNFSDJBM 3FTJEFOUJBM e %XBZOF 4USJOHFS 0XOFS 0QFSBUPS

5FM $FMM

CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORS

DESIGN/BUILD CUSTOM HOMES â&#x20AC;¢ MULTI-FAMILY & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

INVERMERE

0WFS ZFBST PG FYQFSJFODF -PDBMMZ PXOFE PQFSBUFE

Hi - Heat

*/46-"5*/( -5%

Hot Tubs & Accessories, Gazebos, Billiards, Saunas, Tanning Beds, Games, Fitness Equipment, Massage Chairs.

SALES â&#x20AC;¢ SERVICE â&#x20AC;¢ DELIVERY

www.dynastyspas.com

50-- '3&& )&"5

888 )*)&"5*/46-"5*/( $0.

READY MIX CONCRETE

Invermere Electrical Services â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;¢

Reasonable rates Residential - Commercial Electric furnace and hot water tank repair Maintenance and service Central vacuum systems For all your electrical needs call:

Free Estimates!

(250) 342-8878 or e-mail smpostle@telus.net

9OUR 7EEKLY 3OURCE FOR .EWS AND %VENTS

ɧF $

Concrete Pump â&#x20AC;¢ Sand & Gravel Heavy Equipment Rentals â&#x20AC;¢ Crane Service

PMVNCJB 7BMMFZ

Proudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

/ & 8 4 1" 1 & 3

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

TH !VENUE )NVERMERE "#

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

TO NEW HEIGHTS

PO Box 615 Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0

1)0/& '"9

t .BDIJOF #MPXO 8BMMT "UUJDT t 8BMM#BS *OTVMBUJPO 4ZTUFN t 'SJDUJPO 'JU #BUUT t $PNNFSDJBM 3FTJEFOUJBM t 'SFF -PDBM &TUJNBUFT 10 #09 8*/%&3.&3& #$ 7 # - &."*- 4"-&4Ê´)*)&"5*/46-"5*/( $0.

SOARING

Neil & Coralie Woelï¬&#x201A;e Ph/Fax: 250.347.9762

4JODF

%POOB )B[FMBBS

LIMITED TIME OFFER! NEW FRANCHISE FACTORY REBATES

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 #200, 6125 - 11 Street S.E. Email: sgutsche@avionconstruction.com Calgary, AB T2H 2L6 www.avionconstruction.com

33 "WFOVF *OWFSNFSF #$ 7 " , NETUSJOHFS !IPUNBJM DPN

$AVE 3UTHERLAND 3ALES !SSOCIATE

WWW COLUMBIAVALLEYPIONEER COM EMAIL UPIONEER TELUS NET

Our circulation is now 8000!

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

March 23, 2007

AROUND THE VALLEY Fresh food draws fans to the Sunflower Café

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

The owner of the Sunflower Cafe in Canal Flats said her popular breakfast, lunch and coffee spot is not what she imagined when she opened her doors four and a half months ago.

Initially, owner Karlene LePan envisioned a carry-out only coffee shop, but the bright, cheery cafe quickly took on a life of its own.

“I just sort of had this coffee shop idea, but it kind of morphed into what the community wanted it to be,” she said.

“Canal Flats is a small town and everybody knows everybody and people want to come in and sit down and socialize.”

The raven-haired mother of three replaced the sofa and chairs she originally installed with cafe tables, including a long patio table from her backyard deck, and the Sunflower Café became a hub for morning gossip.

Sunflower Café, Ms. LePan explained, wasn’t the result of a burning ambition to be a restaurateur.

In fact, her only food service experience came as a frequent customer, not an employee.

The Edmonton native said she was disenchanted with her former career as

Stew cookoff will be annual event

a Calgary-based TV and video producer when she quit and moved with her family to their Canal Flats vacation cabin.

“I have no formal training in anything I’m doing right now,” she said, “but people seem to like it and they keep coming back.”

Her own desire for fresh, healthy fare was the clincher.

“You can’t get a fresh sandwich, well, anywhere between here and Invermere,” she said.

Demand for the hearty fare of fresh grilled sandwiches made to order, cold subs, soups, coffee, espresso, latte, muffins and cookies keep her busy behind the counter of the small cafe which occupies the Little Big Mall in downtown Canal Flats.

People find her crispy-top, convection-baked banana bread irresistible. It’s her biggest seller, she said.

Ms. LePan said the food is all made fresh daily from ingredients procured locally.

The coffee is from Kootenay Roasters in Cranbrook, dough for the bread is prepared by the bakers at Canal Flats Family Foods and the meats come from Konig Meats in Invermere.

Currently observing “winter hours,” the Sunflower Cafe is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

St. Patrick’s Day, Saturday, March 17th, saw the 1st Annual Charity Stew Cook Off held at the Whitehouse Hotel in Windermere and is to become a tradition every St. Patrick’s Day weekend in the years to come.

For a donation of $5, diners enjoyed as much of the homemade stews as they could eat. A 50/50 draw was held and added to the total of $440 that was proudly raised for the Family Resource Centre.

There were 12 stew entries and one late entry which did not make the judging. The

Karlene LePan left her job in the television industry to open a coffee shop in Canal Flats.

succulent stews ranged from lamb, to pork, to chicken, to beef, to vegetarian with some very secret ingredients which may never be known.

Anne Riches, Elin Einaisson and Maureen Louks were the esteemed judges for the evening. Also all diners were able to vote for their favourite stew for the People’s Choice Award.

• First Prize: Sharon Wright and Liz Kivistik • Second Prize: Colleen Maytham • Third Prize: Laura Thompson

• People’s Choice Award: Sharon Wright and Liz Kivistik The evening was topped off with wonderful music provided by Ken the DJ, and the participants were able to dance the “stew” away for the remainder of the night.

A special thanks to all the organizers for their hard work and creativity in putting this event together.

We look forward to taste testing even more entries next year, so be sure to come on out and join in to help raise money.

34â&#x20AC;˘ The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS CHEERS/JEERS

SUITES FOR RENT

LOTS FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

VEHICLES FOR SALE

VEHICLES FOR SALE

Jeers to the persons in Wilmer who decided they needed the Pioneer box for themselves. SH

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

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

Hay for sale. Small square bales under roof. $2.00/bale. 342-6670.

1979 GMC Dura Frontier Camper van. Good condition including large screen canopy. $4,900 obo.

342-3252

2005 Toyota Tacoma 2wdr, 5spd, 2.7L, exc. Mileage, matching canopy, loaded 33,000km. Take over lease or buy $22000. 3411618.

In Edgewater, Riverview Drive, beautiful view of the Rockies. $120,000. Call 347-9813 evenings after 6 p.m.

Yamaha keyboard PSR-16, 32 preset voices, 16 rhythms, digital synthesizer $120 obo, 345-0065.

$10,000,000

SERVICES

Jeers to the drivers/passengers who throw their beer cans out the window on the Wilmer hill.

SH

EVENTS ATTENTION POOL PLAYERS: If you are interested in playing in an 8 ball or 9 Ball Tournament, one weekend each month, please call Bob Friesen at 3416018. Special handicap system for women.

THANK YOU Many thanks to my family for the lovely 80th birthday party and all my friends who came. It was a nice surprise. Thank you, Hilda

STORAGE Newâ&#x20AC;˘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 information.

SUITES FOR RENT Kootenay Apartments in Radium (Kootenay Motel) has clean, furnished, and all inclusive 1 and 2 bedroom units. $600$800 for long or short-term monthly rental. N/S, N/P DD and references required. Contact Don or Sue Miller. 342-6908 (day), 342-3709 (evenings)

HOMES FOR RENT RED COTTAGE - 2 bedroom duplexes, 1230-13th St. Invermere, 850 sqft, Gas FP, W/D, NS, NP, long-term tenant, $1100/mo includes utilities, available now & Aug 1, 342-2243.

HOMES FOR SALE Pine Ridge home with fantastic view of lake and mountains.

View at bchomesforsale.com in Rocky section. Call 342-3842.

2-bedroom, 1-bath, 1000sq. ft. townhouse in Edgewater.

Completely renovated, new appliances, deck, low fees. $190,000 341-7068.

MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE 1972 Parkwood 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; x 68â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, new roof, siding, some of the windows, skirting. Recently painted inside. 5 appliances. 3-bedrooms, 1-bathroom, new porch and a large deck with an amazing view. In excellent condition.

On a lot in Green Acres Mobile Home Park. Sorry, No Dogs Allowed. Asking $55,000. Please call 342-4400 days 347-9242 evenings.

2006 Safeway 14â&#x20AC;&#x2122; x 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, 2-bedroom mobile home. 4 appliances, plumbed for dishwasher.

Extra large deck, large wood planters, has a yard. On lot in Green Acres Mobile Park.

Sorry, No Dogs Allowed. Asking $105,000. Please call 342-4400 days 347-9242 evenings.

BUSINESS FOR SALE HELP STOP GLOBAL WARMING and put money in your pocket. www.4planetearth.com/wolf or call Wolf (250) 688-0044 Dollar/Gift/Convenience/ Video Store For Sale Turn Key Operation.

Reasonable Price, Be your own Boss. Owner will Finance with Security. Rent $350 per month plus triple net. Over 1,400 items. Price negotiable. A great opportunity for the right person.

Prime Retail Location Canal Flats (604) 786 4604.

GARAGE SALES Saturday, March 31st 10:00 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1:00 pm Edgewater Community Hall Fundraiser for the Edgewater Volunteer Fire Department Anyone wishing to donate items, call Mimi 347-9868 Tables can be rented for $10.

Refreshments for purchase from the Edgewater Hall Society

MISC. FOR SALE ConcertMate 900 Electric 5 Octave keyboard/synthesizer, preprogrammed with 20 different rhythms and 465 different sounds. $400 obo, 342-2096.

Call April at 341-6299 to place your classified.

New Delta Midi-Lathe, Model LA200 with set of 12 lathe tools (chisels) boxed $600 firm, 345-0065.

Brand new Head ski helmet, size L, $80 was $120, 345-0065.

Solid Maple Heritage Style 6-piece bedroom suite manufactured by Vilas. Excellent condition asking $4,995. Call John (403) 251-9378 or (403) 804-1352.

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

New Harman high efficiency direct-vent pellet stove, thermostat controlled, burns all pellet types. 61,000 btuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. $2,500. 342-0165.

WANTED TO BUY WANTED: Two wood-framed windows, 36 inches square, for use in a restored log cabin. Call Elinor at 341-6299 (days) or 342-0444 evenings.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1992 Ford Explorer, 2 DR, good shape, asking $3,200 obo. Phone 342-1705 after 6:00 pm.

in vehicle inventory.

Go to

www.cranbrookdodge.com

to view complete inventory.

GRADS CHECK THIS OUT! 89 HONDA PRELUDE: New tires, windshield, timing belt, muffler. All wheel steering, virtually no rust. Second owner, always garaged. Simply excellent shape inside and out. JVC CD player, PWR everything, cruise, 5-speed. 210,000kms.

Gold Colour, $6,300. Call 345-0095 for info.

Flooring installations including lino, carpet, vc tile, laminate, and hardwood. Plus handyman work including new decks, renovations, framing, and roofing. Call 347-9192, 3411235.

PAINT & FLOORS. Interior/ exterior painting, repaints, stain & lacquer finish. Hardwood Floors. Basic & custom installations. 20yrs exp. Reliable service & quality craftsmanship.

Call 341-7261.

Simes Painting: interior and exterior, new homes and existing, quality woodwork finishing, laquers, staining, and clearcoating. Call Barry. 3420572 Windermere.

Residential/Vacation Properties Maintenance & Repairs

Dependable - Fully Insured

JIM ROBERTSON Windermere 342-9022

VEHICLES FOR SALE

1989 5th Wheel can be seen at Dutch Creek Campground. $2,500. (403) 256-3334.

1994 Ford Aspire SE. 5-speed manual, 2-door hatchback, Pioneer CD w/MP3. Excellent gas mileage. 210,000km. $2,100 obo. 347-9326.

1985 Chev 2500 truck w/350 engine, good shape runs well.

200,000km. $1,000. 342-6116

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March 23, 2007

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS SERVICES SPECIAL 20% OFF K.I.S.S. Landscaping Angle Broom sweeping – parking lots, driveways and sidewalks.

347–9385 or 342-5912.

Simes Painting: interior and exterior, new homes and existing, quality woodwork finishing, laquers, staining, and clearcoating. Call Barry. 3420572 Windermere.

CAREERS Invermere Sears 2 days a week. Call 342-6901 or stop in store.

Experienced Framers required, competitive wages offered.

Year round work. Phone Curt 270-0744 or Glen 270-0644

BC LIQUORSTORES Liquor Distribution Branch is looking for energetic individuals for a fast paced, customer focused retail environment with potential for a long term career. Auxiliary employees are needed on an “as and when needed basis”.

Must be 19 years of age, customer service oriented, good physical condition, understand and communicate effectively in English, able to lift 25 kg boxes. Applicants with experience in retail/warehouse or similar environment preferred. Salary starts at $15.41/hour.

Applications/resumes can be submitted at Invermere Liquor Store, 510 – 13th Street.

CAREERS

CAREERS

CAREERS

FREE MOVIE RENTALS Join our team and receive a great wage, and free movie rentals. Apply in person at Gone Hollywood Video, #1, 503 – 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC

MUST LOVE DOGS. Bow-Wow-Meow looking for part-time grooming and boarding assistant, please send resume to bowwowmeowpet@ shaw.ca or call Lana 342-5859.

Wanted a Resident Manager to manage a unique hotel in Radium Hot Springs. Excellent working conditions and benefits. Please call Heidi or Ali at (250) 426-6683.

Class 1 Dump Truck Operator, Equipment Operator and Labourers.

Wage DOE. 345-0090 or email: lewilder@shaw.ca

Help Wanted Resident Care Aid ~ Full Time Position

Full-time position at private lodge starting May. Maintenance, grounds keeping, cleaning. Horse experience a bonus. Leave message 342-5299.

Manager: Stephanie Healy Phone: 342-3699

Rock Works Landscape now hiring. All skill levels considered.

Pay based on experience. Call Ray 342-5676.

RCA or PCA or HSW or equivelent Union Membership, HEU See Posting, Mt. Nelson Place

Cleaning Super needed.

Radium Vacation Rentals and Timberstone Property Services are looking for a full-time house keeping supervisor/cleaner starting April 1st/07 for condo and homes in the Radium / Invermere area.

Please call 347-6900 for details.

SAFE HOMES

PROGRAM SUPPORT WORKER Family Resource Centre Duties: The Safe Homes support worker is part of a team of casual staff that agrees to carry a cellular phone and serve scheduled on-call duty for the Safe Homes Program.

Support workers are on call on week days and evenings, weekends and statutory holidays. When called out, the support worker provides a confidential emergency service for the provision of temporary, safe and supportive accommodation for women and their children who have experienced or who are at risk of abuse, threats or violence.

Support workers will provide transportation, information, support and, when appropriate, follow-up support for women.

Application process and deadline: Submit a resume and cover letter to Pat Cope, Executive Director, Family Resource Centre, Box 2289, Invermere, B.C., V0A 1K0, by 4:00 p.m., March 30, 2007.

Experienced part/full-time tandem dump truck driver wanted. Must have Class 1 or 3 license. $25/hr, call 342-5654.

Grounds Personnel at Terra Vista Condominiums. Great Work Environment! Position available immediately. 40 hours / week. $15/hr. Email or Fax resume. terrav@telus.net, 342-3005 fax.

Inquires please call 342-1134.

Apprentice for Stonemason.

Male or female, $13-18 on experience and learning curve.

342-5845.

Full-time employment, year-round positions.

• Facility Maintenance & Grounds • Front Office Reception • Housekeeping For an interview contact 347-2323 ext. 1504 or resumes can be e-mailed to russell@bighornmeadows.ca Deadline for applications Mar. 30th

THE PIONEER Double the circulation, double the advertising power of any other local newspaper!

Ski season drawing to a close It’s been a fantastic snow season at Panorama Mountain Village - and remember there are only a few weeks left to hit the slopes. Here a skier tackles a steep slope in Taynton Bowl on a sunny spring break day.

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

PIONEER ON THE ROAD

TRAVELLING WITH THE PIONEER—The Pioneer continues its world tour with another batch of entries from far-flung locations. Pictured here are (clockwise from top left) Tom Hardie of Fairmount Hot Springs at the Blue Jays spring training camp in Dunedin, Florida; Invermere resident Brian Johnson after a day of mountain biking in sunny and hot Moab, Utah, on his way to ski in Telluride, Colorado; Howie and Donabelle Williams enjoying a stop at Costa Maya, Mexico while on a cruise; Barb Kester and Dot Forster at Stellenbosch, South Africa; Joan and John Rouse of Invermere and Doug and Susan Boker of Radium, on the fifth tee box of the Emerald Canyon Golf Course in Parker, Arizona.

March 23, 2007

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

PIONEER ON THE ROAD Send us a photograph of yourself with a copy of The Pioneer and enter to win two free nights at the Fantasyland Hotel in West Edmonton Mall, courtesy of Travel World in Invermere.

THE PIONEER GOES EVERYWHERE—Clockwise from top left, Todd Mitchell of Windermere snapped this photo of daughter Madeleine and her mother Brenda Mitchell at St. Petes Beach, Florida; Wendy Bennett, left, and Nancy Phair of Invermere at an undiscovered Mexican shrimp village with Manuel, a treasure hunter; Bill Croft of Windermere, who was travelling through India with his wife Nora Efford, was photographed holding a copy of the Pioneer and another copy of The Pioneer from Delhi, while in Agra, India; Luke Denton and his wife Bronwyn of Radium Hot Springs at the Daytona 500 in Florida.

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

Lisa buys cows for the poor

By Lisa M. Rohrick Niger, Africa “You’re really Fulani now!” my friends told me after our trip to the market.

And what did I do to deserve that comment, you ask? I bought two cows.

And what am I going to do with two cows? I’m glad you asked. Let me explain!

The Fulani people, with whom I work here in Niger, West Africa, have a wonderful cultural practice of lending animals to those who are in financial need.

The recipient keeps and cares for the cow until it has a calf. If the calf is female, the recipient keeps the calf, and the cow is returned to its owner. If the calf is male, the recipient keeps the calf and also keeps the cow for a second year. After the second calf is born, the cow is returned to its owner.

I heard about this system several months ago, and talked about it with Ruga, the head cattleman in the village I visit most often. That wasn’t the time to buy, he cautioned, because the prices were too high. “Wait a few months.”

A few months went by and it was time to go cow shopping! Off I went to the market with Ruga and two other men. Normally a trip to the market is an exhausting experience, with every merchant calling out to direct my attention to his wares. “Madame!

Madame, over here!! I’ll give you a good price!” “Madame! Look here!” “Madame, buy from me!”

But going to the market with Ruga, a respected elder in the area, was different. I walked along behind

Lisa Rohrick with Nayil and Amaril. him, receiving nothing more than polite greetings as we passed the various vendors. When we arrived at the animal department, he and I stood in the shade of a large tree while the other two went off to do the negotiating, returning to the tree from time to time to report on their progress. It wasn’t long until they’d reached a deal, and Ruga and I went over to join them.

A crowd formed as I handed over the cash (it isn’t every day a white woman, speaking their language, shows up to buy cows!)

Later that day the cows were delivered to Ruga’s village, having walked the four kilometres from the market. The next step was to name them. I thought of Moo and Spot, or perhaps Harvey (after a man in my childhood who had a dog called Lisa!)

But instead, I asked for suggestions from my Fulani friends. They offered some names and I chose on the basis of how easy they were to pronounce (and thus

hopefully remember). The dark brown cow is Nayil, and the white one with a few dark spots is Amaril.

The next morning Ruga invited me into his hut to discuss the recipients of the cows. Poor people are not hard to find in Niger, which is listed at the very bottom of 177 countries in the United Nations human development index for 2006. I had already told Ruga I most wanted to help women who were in need. That morning we talked about the village widows. I asked him how many children they each had, if they had other animals, how their health was, if they are likely to take care of the animal, etc. Based on his responses, I chose the two widows who would receive my cows.

We then went out to the field where my cows were tethered, followed by a group of witnesses. As soon as I told them to whom I was lending my cows, Ruga’s wife took off running down the path back to the village. Ruga chuckled and said, “She wants to be the first one to share the good news!”

As we walked back to the village, Ruga said, “Thank you! You have given to my village, which is as if you have given to me. And we thank you.”

So my two cows have become loaner cows, and are already in the possession of two widows with children.

The idea is to help them establish a herd, and a means of improving their diet (with milk) and giving them an income (from the sale of milk and butter).

Apparently several development agencies across West Africa have adopted this Fulani custom of helping people with the loan of animals. I hope that Nayil and Amaril will be the first of many animals I am able to lend to people caught in poverty’s deadly trap.

Mike Baker on his way home from Africa Editor’s Note: This is the final installment of Mike Baker’s account of his adventures in Africa. He arrives home to Invermere this week.

I reached the top of Karisimbi volcano with an armed escort of 13 Rwandan soldiers carrying machine guns and rocket launchers. “It’s to scare away the buffaloes and elephants,” the guide said. Two days later I traveled to the D.R. Congo and found out there was fighting with Hutu rebels on the Congo side. I did think it was a bit excessive to scare buffaloes away with a rocket launcher . . .

As soon as I crossed the border, I had to bribe the police to not check my luggage. Apparently if you skip the bribe, and get searched, things can go missing. I don’t usually support corruption, but in the D.R. Congo, things are different!

When I arrived in Uganda, I felt completely safe (southern Uganda - not the north). I wonder what it is about a country that emits a safe vibe? Is it the lack of guns, friendly smiling people or both?

I spent three days on Lake Bunyonyi. I took a dug-out canoe to an island, camped and just sat

on the beach. Following Lake Bunyonyi, I went to Kampala and spent a day getting lost in the city.

The next day I spent white water kayaking on the Nile. I was in a two-person kayak with the guide in the back. We went through, over and under the craziest rapids. One rapid had a three-metre drop and the other one was known as “The Bad Place.”

Needless to say, I spent a good amount of time under the water at “The Bad Place.”

I took a night bus to Nairobi, Kenya where I connected to Longido, Tanzania. I spent three days with the Maasai in Longido. I visited a Maasai settlement - like the Hutterites but far more rustic.

From Longido, I travelled to Arusha. I hired a Land Rover Defender (sweet vehicle) and went on a safari in Tarangire National Park. There were elephants, giraffes, impala, baboons, warthogs, dikdiks, bush buck, and even a tortoise. We got too close to a bull elephant and it charged us! This thing was huge. It didn’t move very fast, but it had a lot of momentum. We took off and didn’t look back.

Following Arusha, I spent three days on the coast of the Indian Ocean in Tanga and then flew to the

island of Pemba. I spent a day wandering through a market. This was not like a typical African market . . . instead of garbage I could smell cloves and cinnamon. Instead of people yelling, I could hear Arabic music. The women were dressed in burkahs and their hands and feet were covered in henna.

I used a bicycle to get around. Whenever I got hungry, I could stop on the side of the road and buy some sugar cane, fresh sugar cane juice (they filter out the insects), bananas, and coconuts.

Diving in Pemba was amazing. We swam beside a huge wall covered in coral of every shape and color imaginable. The fish were amazing as well, but the coral was by far the biggest attraction.

I also spent a day hiding some treasure (seems like the obvious thing to do on a tropical island).

I had a treasure chest made by a local carpenter, stuffed it full of “treasure” and then buried it on some random island. Hopefully some day I’ll make it back to Pemba to search for my treasure!

The trip has been fun, frustrating and eye-opening. I hope my stories have inspired some of you to venture to Africa and experience it first-hand.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

March 23, 2007

FAITH

Truth is an absolute

By John Cuyler Valley Christian Assembly

What is truth? Is truth just an idea? If truth is just an idea, then people will build their value system on the basis of what is acceptable in the society they live in.

Consider for a moment the implications of this. If truth is just an idea, then if blatant immorality is considered acceptable by that society, then blatant immorality such as the exploitation of children must be right. If truth is just an idea, then if dishonesty is considered acceptable, then dishonesty in business practices must be right.

If truth is just an idea, then if eliminating those members of that society that are considered a burden to society is acceptable, then carrying out that action must be right.

About this time you may be thinking, now just a minute here, these practices don’t seem right to me.

This may be so, but if truth is just an idea, then our society determines the basis for what is right. But, is truth really just an idea or is it much more than that?

May I say that truth is not something that is changeable but rather something that remains constant. Truth is altogether correct. It has no flaws or defects, so it never needs to be altered. Truth doesn’t change with time or societal standards; it remains the same whether people choose to acknowledge it or not.

If truth then is unchangeable, then where did truth originate from?

The answer to that question is not so much where, but who is the source of truth? And the answer to that is truth originates with God. The Bible says that God, “is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.” (Deuteronomy).

God is the standard of truth who is perfect in every way. God is the God of truth who sent His Son into the world to bear witness of the truth. The Bible tells us that Jesus, “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory as of the only one begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) The day that Jesus was brought before Pilate, He said, “I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth.” (John 18:37) Jesus not only claimed to bear witness of the truth, He declared, “I am the truth.”

(John 14:6.) Jesus Christ is truth personified. If Jesus

Christ is truth then we must believe that all the words that He speaks are also truth. He said this: “I am the way, and the truth and the life; no man comes to the Father, but through Me.” (John 14:6) What is truth? Think about this for a moment: You are driving down a highway when you encounter a sign that reads “Dangerous Curve Ahead.” Immediately you are confronted with making a choice.

One, you can believe what it says, observe the warning and slow down. Two, you can ignore the warning and maintain your rate of speed. Or, three, you can defy the warning and speed up.

Whatever response you exercise, you will not change the truth of the sign. The curve remains dangerous regardless of whether you acknowledge the fact or not. The truth is that the only way anyone can be acceptable in God’s sight is by believing the truth that Jesus Christ died for our sins. In fact, Jesus not only died for our sins, but He also rose from the dead.

Easter is the time where we remember His death and resurrection and that through believing in that truth we can have eternal life. Romans 10:9-10 says, “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.”

What is truth? This is truth—every person has to make a choice whether to believe in Him or not.

Whatever your response will not change the truth of His message. Jesus remains the truth, whether you acknowledge the fact or not.

Need Blinds? Best Quality Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

Valley Churches LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH 10:30 a.m., Sunday, March 25th – Worship and Life Instruction, Celebration Sunday.

Sunday School, for ages 3 to Grade 7 during Morning Service.

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.

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 p.m. Mass • Sunday, 9 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 p.m. at Christ Church Trinity 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. Fraser Coltman • 1-866-426-7564 RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Every Sunday 10 a.m., Sunday School 10 a.m.

Every Wednesday 7 p.m., Bible Study Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • Radium Seniors’ Hall • 342-6633 THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTERDAY SAINTS Sunday Service, 10 a.m. • Sunday School, 11 a.m.

Noon Sunday: Relief Society President Grant Watkins • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 345-0079

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

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

1229-7th Ave., Invermere

FAMILY MATTERS WORKSHOP Striving to Serve and Assist Families that have members with disabilities BEING CONNECTED COUNTS

Support • Assistance • Meeting Challenges

March 30th • 7 pm - 9:30 pm March 31st • 9 am - 12:30 pm Days Inn, 600 Cranbrook St. North, Cranbrook RSVP Ivy-Lynn Stein ildstein@shaw.ca Phone 250-489-2039 or phone Betty-Jean Feldman 342-3216

This is a FREE EVENT

WE SELL REAL ESTATE • Radium • Invermere • Panorama • Windermere • Fairmont

342-6415

Call 341-6151 or 1-888-341-6155

rayfergusonrealty.ca UNIQUE HOLDING/ INVESTMENT Central location to beach & downtown Invermere. Home has revenue suite.

Zoned for attached housing.

MLS# K160424

$425,000

40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 23, 2007

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

Daniel Zurgilgen

342-7415

342-1612

Ed English 342-1194

The Price is Right

Jan Klimek 342-1195

John McCarthy 342-1758

Scott Wallace

Andy Smith

342-5309

342-1709

Enjoy the Views

Bryan Hookenson 341-1266

Rob Rice 341-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice 342-5935

Katie Wallace 342-5785

Paul Glassford 341-1395

Immaculate Home in Radium Hot Springs

The newest Peaks Development in Radium. Known as the Aspen this complex boasts such amenities as underground parking and security entry system. One of the few properties in the area with its own elevator system. Come and enjoy the views!.

MLS#K161154

Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, den, open living room with lots of light! Well designed kitchen with maple cabinets, birch hardwood in dining area with garden doors open to a eight person hot tub. MLS#K161159

Dream Starter in Radium

Recreational Condo for the Active Family

Ultimate Rural Lifestyle

Dream Starter in Radium Hot Springs! 2 Bedroom apartment style condo in the growing village of Radium. Upgraded home features stainless steel appliances. Two patios and lots of windows. Perfect starter home or entry into the popular recreation market. Priced to Sell!!! MLS#K161129

Now is the time for decisive action. Two bedrooms, fully furnished with new carpet and gently used. This townhouse style condominium at Panorama Mountain Village is a bargain for ski, nature, mountain bikers and golf enthusiasts. MLS#K161179

Enjoy lake access, carefree living in Lakeview Meadows! Fully nished 4 bedroom townhome features deluxe master ensuite with loft sitting area, hardwood oors, vaulted ceilings and large view windows in open living/dining area. Walkout lower level provides for extra room to entertain and for extra guests. Distinctive architecture plus a prestige neighborhood. MLS#K161201

Golf Course Property

Canterbury Point

Great Starter Home

This property is on the golf course in Canal Flats; the lot is 300 ft deep and affords great golf course and mountain views. Property has 4 bedrooms and a hot tub. Subdivision in the future may be a possibility. MLS#K161083

Beach access cabin gives the lucky buyer of this property the ability to enjoy summers on the lake without spending a million or more! Title (shared) beach access, right in Invermere with town water and sewer. MLS#K161252

Great starter home or rental property on a quiet street in Radium Hot Springs. Located across from the Springs Golf Course, this bungalow sits on a at, fenced lot with great views and tons of potential. MLS#K161193

$269,900

$649,000

$299,900

Charming townhome in Radium Hot Springs. Bright kitchen and 2 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms. Walk to shops, restaurants and hot pools. Golf and skiing nearby.

Furnished and ready to move in!. MLS#K161141

$252,900

$219,000

Ultimate Vistas of

Lake and Mountains This wonderfully situated home perched on a hillside offers some of the best unobstructed view of Lake Windermere and the Rocky Mountains. The very private concrete deck offers morning sun and late afternoon shade for your comfort. Large master bedroom with walk-in closet and nicely appointed en-suite and a stunning lake view. 3 bedrooms and a very large recreation room. Wine or cold storage room with natural ground. Walk out basement to the hot tub and amazing lake views. MLS#K161156

$799,000

$359,900

$279,900

$229,000 + gst

$619,900

One of the Best

Enjoy all the luxurious benets this spectacular custom timber frame home has to offer. Spacious living with an open design. Walkout basement with an outdoor sitting patio with replace. Stunning lake and mountain views.MLS#K161172

$1,995,000