vol4issue49

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Vol. 4/Issue 49

The Columbia

FREE

December 7, 2007

Valley

P IONEER

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

FEEDING THE VALLEY

2 CONSERVATIONIST

13 SANTA PARADE

24

HAPPY RETIREMENT! Mickey and Helga Riches have closed Mickey’s Auto Body for good. See Page 8.

YOU’RE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK (PU ZPVS FZF PO TPNFUIJOH TQFDJBM 4FU ZPVS TJHIUT PO GBTU USBDL TBWJOH BOE TFF JU IBQQFO "TL IPX PVS HSFBU JOWFTUNFOU QSPEVDUT BOE QSP¾U TIBSJOH DBO QVU ZPVS QMBOT JO QMBJO TJHIU :PVµSF PO ZPVS XBZ BU ,PPUFOBZ 4BWJOHT get there sooner

XXX LTDV DPN

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

S ol i d W o od Bl i n d s Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

VALLEY NEWS

Merry Christmas

to our community who supports us with donations & patronage in our store.

THRIFT SHOP WILL BE CLOSED December 21st to January 9th

1/2 Price Sale on

Dec. 13, 14, 15 & 20 Invermere Health Care Auxiliary

CANAL FLATS

FAIRMONT

FAIRMONT

Zoned C-2, this 0.83 acre lot has excellent highway exposure. Covenant on title: no sales, storage of bulk petroleum for a 20 year period.

Spectacular log home with views of the Purcell’s & Stanford Range. Close to golf, skiing, shopping and Hot Springs.

A Must See!

0.274 acre lot, incredible mtn. views, on Riverside Golf Course, viewing distance of the complex w/ pro-shop, lounge & restaurants.

$84,900 + GST

$699,000

$180,000

INVERMERE

INVERMERE

CANAL FLATS

This ground flr 2 bdrm unit has incredible views of Kinsmen Beach & Lake Windermere. Amenities w/private pool, common area, hot tub area, & mins to beach.

Beautiful views, wonderful design & a lakefront location on Lake Windermere.

Full appliance package included.

Beautiful landscaped 0.147 acre lot.

Fruit trees and partially fenced yard, close to schools, playground and just minutes from the beach!

$499,000 + GST

$324,900 + GST

$85,900 + GST

mls# k3600004

mls# k165189

mls#k166011

mls# k165437

mls# k163705

mls# k163139

HELPING HAND—Copper Point Golf Club accounts assistant Maggy Boyer and Columbia Valley Arts Council director John Rouse serve up a mouth-watering Christmas dinner to Brody Powell from Invermere.

Feed the Valley sets record

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

BARRY

DAVID

342-1524

Strata Management

341-5168

341-5300

342-5914

342-5809

BILL

PAUL

ERIC

BARRY

342-5245

MARLENE

DIANA

341-5600

341-5269

CLARE

BRENDA

341-5335

342-1146

Fairmont Village Mall, Fairmont

Phone: 345-4000

526 B – 13th St. , Invermere

Phone: 342-6911

#5, 7553 Main St. W. , Radium

Phone: 347-0003

www.rockymtnrealty.com

100 Spokane St., Kimberley

Phone: 427-7755

Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

A record-breaking number of people showed up to enjoy an early Christmas dinner on Sunday, courtesy of the generous folks at Copper Point Golf Club.

A whopping 650 people chomped their way through 26 turkeys, five and a half hams and a mouthwatering 640 pumpkin pies, which actually ran out shortly after 5 p.m.

Roast turkey, potatoes and all the trimmings were cooked up by food and beverage manager Matt Bergin and executive chef Cliff Huck all afternoon, from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Luckily they had an extra eight staff to help them in the kitchen.

And the best thing about it was it was all for free.

This was the fourth year the event has been held, and it was all about bringing the community together.

People were also encouraged to bring a donation for the Food Bank. Copper Point general manager Brian Schaal said it had been a huge success.

“It’s been great to see the place so busy from start to end, and it’s been the best year we’ve had so far.

We’ve got at least two car loads of food to take to the Food Bank. We raised a total of $4,128.44, thanks to lots of generous donations, including one cheque for $500,” he said.

“We had enough pumpkin pies for 640 people before we ran out after 5 p.m. The kitchen staff really hit a home run, and it’s thanks to the help of all the volunteers that we managed to pull it off,” he said.

He explained that a team of 75 volunteers helped out by serving along a line, normally five people at a time.

Both Santa Claus and The Grinch also made an appearance, and a total of 114 children had their photos taken with them—compared to just 25 photos taken last year.

Many prizes were also handed out from the golf shop, like shirts, jackets and hats.

During last year’s annual event, Copper Point Golf Course served about 500 people, and Mr. Schaal added the event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support from Fairmont Resort Properties, Nohels construction company, and AG Valley Foods, which gives a great deal on all the food.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

December 7, 2007

VALLEY NEWS

Performing arts centre nixed by council

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff In a committee-of-the-whole meeting on Tuesday night, which included members of the arts council and library board, Invermere council said it would not support a performing arts centre as part of a new community centre.

A “world class” performing arts centre was proposed as the centrepiece of a combined theatre/library building by Columbia Valley Arts Council and the Library Board last January, but after a needs assessment committee made recommendations for a more inclusive facility, council said it would return to a sevenyear-old plan for a library/community centre designed to replace Invermere’s aging Community Hall.

“We’re not saying no to theatre,” Mayor Mark Shmigelsky commented. “We are saying no to a big theatre. We still want to have a discussion with CV Arts to find out if there is an opportunity for something more than Christ Church Trinity.”

Christ Church Trinity is currently the largest venue in town and the site of many performances.

“We want to keep the door cracked open a little,” Mayor Shmigelsky commented.

Council cited a lack of public support for a performing arts centre and concern over the district’s abil-

ity to maintain core funding to maintain and operate a big theatre.

A recent community-wide survey (see Page 27), Invermere Chief Administrator Chris Prosser Commented, showed more support for a swimming pool than a theatre.

Given an imaginary pie of $100 of tax funds to allocate toward a new community facility, respondents, he said, gave the smallest slice ($18) to an Arts/Cultural Centre, which came in at a few dollars behind the category “Other,” (i.e., a youth centre or multipurpose rooms for community groups).

Respondents said they would spend the biggest slice of the pie ($35) on a recreation centre, including a fitness centre and leisure pool; followed by a library ($26).

Mayor Shmigelsky said the district struggles to meet core funding requirements for the facilities it currently operates, after delivering a late check to Columbia Valley Arts Treasurer John Rouse prior to the meeting to cover operating expenses of Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

The district, he said, could not afford the estimated $150,000 annual costs to operate a 350-seat theatre.

Mr. Rouse, speaking on behalf of Arts president Chris Evans, past-president Cam Berry and the organization’s 300 members said the announcement took

them by surprise.

“We kind of feel like the bride whose wedding has been cancelled,” Mr. Rouse commented. “We want move that door open a little more than a crack, Mr. Mayor. On behalf of my fellow board members, we’d like an opportunity to discuss a compromise.”

Mr. Rouse said the arts council didn’t know that consideration of operating costs was part of the study and that council’s decision has jeopardized a major capital funding grant from the Lions’ Club.

“Certainly we are feeling we are feeling that we’ve been left out in the cold,” he said.

Library Board president Sandy McIlwain said he, too, was taken by surprise by the decision and is disappointed that a major partner in the project has been sent to the sidelines.

“I’m disappointed because (the Library Board and the Arts Council) have been such close partners,” Mr. McIlwain commented. “I’m still processing this. We didn’t have an opportunity to discuss operating costs.

At least, I never heard them being asked.”

Mayor Shmigelsky said he supported the decision, but invited further discussion on the topic.

“There was no public support for it, no matter where it is in our hearts,” he said. “It’s not over, the door’s not slammed shut. I think we’re all still friends here.”

Council agrees to reconsider Grizzly Ridge

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Invermere council agreed to reconsider the possible annexation of Grizzly Ridge, a sprawling tract of land that wraps around Invermere to the west and south, including a portion of lake frontage.

Negotiations over annexation and subdivision of the 1,200-acre parcel broke down two years ago when the owner, Mark Himmelspach, and the district could not come to an agreement over the dedication of parkland.

Project engineer Peter Mulyk appeared before Invermere council on Tuesday night with two offers

and an ultimatum. If council did not agree to reconsider one of two scenarios presented, Mr. Himmelspach would pursue subdivision through the Regional District of East Kootenay.

“Our client,” Mr. Mulyk said, “is most keen to get into the ground and begin development. Our client is prepared to move as quickly as we can. We want to move through the process as expeditiously as possible.”

Both scenarios presented for consideration, Mr. Mulyk explained, involve the permanent dedication of 231.5 acres of parkland, 19.3 percent of the annexation area; plus an additional 90.5 acres outside the annexation area.

Invermere Mayor Mark Shmiglesky said the amount is actually less than formerly proposed in terms of overall dedication, but he is nevertheless in support of the latest offer.

“I’m supportive of annexation,” he said. “Two years ago, the public didn’t support it. I think the potential is there to garner public support, but it has to be a win-win situation.”

Councillors Sarah Bennett and Gerry Taft agreed. “I think the tide of public opinion is turning. I think it will be a boon to have this within the district,” Councillor Bennett commented.

The two scenarios will be up for consideration at Tuesday’s meeting of Invermere Council.

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

RCMP Report Submitted by Staff-Sergeant Doug Pack Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment • November 27: RCMP received a report of a stolen gravel tamper. The tamper, which was rented, was taken from a Canal Flats work site sometime during the previous week. The description provided was a “Dynapac Plate Tamper” Model 3820. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the RCMP at (250) 342-9292 or Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS).

• November 27: At 10:01 a.m., RCMP were called to an argument occurring between a male and female at the Radium Esso in Radium Hot Springs.

The initial investigation determined reasonable grounds to arrest the man for assault, which had occurred overnight while the couple were vacationing in Fairmont.

The man, a 31-year-old Kamloops resident, was subsequently released on a Promise to Appear with “no contact” conditions. He is scheduled to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21st, 2008.

In accordance with her wishes, the woman was taken to Golden by police so she could catch the earliest bus home to the central interior of the province.

• November 28: At 3:35 p.m., the RCMP received a call that a woman driving in a red pick-up was ramming her vehicle into an office at the “mall”

on Athalmer Road. Police arrived and located the driver standing outside. The issue escalated after an unresolved dispute over money allegedly owed to the driver.

The female, a 43-year-old Invermere resident was arrested for mischief to property and later released from custody to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21st, 2008.

• November 13: RCMP members were patrolling southbound on Highway 93/95 near Dincey Road when they observed a speeding, northbound vehicle.

The police stopped the vehicle and checked the driver, a 21-year-old Alberta resident.

The driver initially displayed symptoms of impairment by alcohol, and he was asked to exit his vehicle.

When he did, police noticed a quantity of marijuana near the center console of the vehicle. The driver was then arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

Police followed up on the impaired driving angle as well, and obtained an roadside breath sample using an approved screening device which indicated a “Fail” reading. The driver was read the formal breath demand and he was escorted to the detachment office where two samples were taken, both of which were analyzed at 100 mgs percent.

The driver was released from custody on a Promise to Appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21, 2008 to answer to the impaired driving and re-

lated charges. Due to the small quantity of marijuana recovered, police are not recommending drug charges in this case.

• November 28: Columbia Valley RCMP received a complaint that a lime green-coloured ATV with high back fenders was operating on Sinclair Avenue in Edgewater. The ATV continues to operate at high speeds down the roads as well, and is believed to be the same one that ran from the police a week previously.

Anyone with information as to the owner or operator of this vehicle is asked to contact the Columbia Valley Detachment at (250) 342-9292.

• November 29: At 11:10 p.m., RCMP witnessed a blue GMC speed by them on 7th Avenue in Invermere. Police stopped the truck and checked the driver and noticed a strong odour of liquor on his breath. Moreover, the truck windows were covered in ice, making it hard to see outside the vehicle.

When RCMP demanded breath samples at the roadside, the driver refused to provide them. He also threatened the police officer with bodily harm, for which he was immediately arrested and taken to the detachment cell block. He was released later when he was a bit more sober and less ignorant. The man, a 21year-old Campbell River resident, is scheduled to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on February 19th, 2008. He was also issued a 90-day Automatic Driving Prohibition.

Get in the spirit by making Spirits Reach your Rocky Mountain retreat. Live in your lakeside home gazing over the breathtaking and peaceful Columbia Lake and enjoy the Columbia Valley ski resorts and other great outdoor activities this winter. Relax by the wood burning fireplace in your finely crafted 2-, 3-, or 4-bedrom home grounded in environmentally sustainable design, energy-efficient and maintenance free construction, and timeless architecture.

Our lakeside homes start from $499,000. Visit our Discovery Centre and show homes, just 10 minutes south of Fairmont Hot Springs, BC, and just over 3 hours from Calgary.

Get in the spirit! Come visit our show homes!

Holiday Festivities: Sat, Dec 22 – 12:00 to 3:00 Sleigh Rides Sat, Dec 29 – 11:00 to 2:00 Skating Party

Call 1.877.349.7575 or visit www.spiritsreach.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

December 7, 2007

Bridge closure creates chaos

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff A driver carrying an over-height load struck the bridge at Dutch Creek near the Hoodoos on Monday, throwing valley roads into chaos as the bridge was closed indefinitely for a damage assessment. The collision happened at around 11 a.m. and blocked both sides of Highway 93/95, which was also very icy.

The Ministry of Transport had the bridge assessed and limited commercial traffic over the bridge to 24,500 kg or less. A new temporary bridge will be constructed and the Ministry is hoping to have this in place by early next week.

Ministry of Transport engineer Kelly Beriault said the load was being carried on a flatbed truck which was too high for the bridge.

“We recognise the potential economic impact to commercial businesses throughout the Columbia Valley, but we are working 24/7 to construct a temporary bridge as quickly as possible on the old highway a bit further upstream,” she said.

“We hope the temporary bridge will be ready after the weekend. Once it is in place it will only carry single-lane traffic, but it will be a temporary measure while we carry out a full damage assessment on Dutch Creek bridge, which could take months. But in the short term, we are working through a few options, which could include strengthening Dutch Creek bridge for single-lane traffic. Northbound traffic could then use this bridge, while southbound traffic would use the temporary bridge. The Ministry of Transport will be pursuing a claim through the flatbed truck driver’s insurance,” she said.

Businesses throughout the valley were severely affected, as heavy trucks which normally deliver supplies on a daily basis were not able to get through.

Canadian Forest Products Mill, at Forsters Landing in Radium Hot Springs, was forced to close.

General manager Lionel Chabot said the incident shut down the mill.

“All our by-products, such as chips, bark, sawdust and planer shavings, flow through that bridge. We usually have 30 trucks a day using that bridge, but nothing’s been able to get through.

“The sawmill has been completely idle and all 150 employees were sent home on Monday. We’ll probably stay closed until after the weekend. I wouldn’t like to say what our losses are, but I don’t think anything like this has ever affected the mill on this scale before,” Mr. Chabot said.

Norm Gagatek, who owns Ateknor Enterprises Ltd., an electrical business in Invermere, said he has also been badly affected by the bridge closure.

“I’ve not been able to get any of my wiring supplies, which are usually delivered by freight trucks from Cranbrook Express and Dakota. Right now, Dakota is using smaller vans to get the freight across, so they’ve been great by adapting to make it happen.

“As only a limited amount of freight can get through at a time, it has slowed everything right down.

We can’t start any new jobs as any new materials are all on hold, and only two of my four staff have been able to work,” Mr. Gagatek said.

The bridge closure just added to the severe disruption caused by a huge dump of snow followed by high winds and icy rain across the East Kootenays.

The highway was closed from Brisco all the way to the U.S. border as the melting snow turned roads and sidewalks into skating rinks.

Freezing rain brought roads and highways to a standstill across the province, with multiple road closures, and drivers were warned only to use the highways if their journey was absolutely essential.

The Trans-Canada Highway was reopened on Wednesday morning after being closed since early Monday. Motorists were told to expect some delays as backed-up traffic started moving again.

Oh what fun it is to save!

20

%

All Bed & Bath OFF Products!

9 – 1 2 t h Ave n u e No r t h , Cr a n b ro o k , B C V 1 C 3 V 6 • Ph : 2 5 0 - 4 2 6 - 3 9 1 1 Tur n at Culligan’s and come straight to us! Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9-6 Fri: 9-8 Sat: 9:30-5 Sun: 12-4

Christmas Trees Locally grown, sheared and pruned trees.

Prices depend on size.

Call Bob Mitchell, Brisco, B.C.

346-3275

Did you know?

Based on a recent regional poll, 88% of people agree that it is important to: Have locally grown food products that support locals.

Source: Values and Priorities Study 2006

For more information on the East Kootenay Conservation Program, please visit

www.ekcp.ca

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

Columbia Valley Figure Skating Club presents

“Santa on Vacation” Ice Carnival Sunday, December 16th 2007, 2:00 pm at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Please come and support our kids!

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Idle thoughts

By Brian Geis Pioneer Editor If you are out walking the dog around Invermere at 7 a.m., you can’t help but notice about every third or fourth house has a vehicle idling out front. Even if you sleep in, not a day goes by that you don’t see a vehicle idling in front of a store. My first instinct upon seeing an unattended, idling vehicle, of course, is to go for a joy ride. Having lived in seedier neighborhoods, I am hesitant to leave my vehicle unlocked, let alone warmed up, running and ready to go.

After the teenage impulse to “take a vehicle without consent” is subdued, my adult sense of morality (i.e. the Golden Rule), my second thought naturally turns to the environmental issue.

Letting a vehicle idle while I run into a store feels like littering. And, considering the cost of fuel, the prevalence of engine block heaters for sub-zero conditions and the design of modern engines, letting a vehicle idle for ten, 15, 20 minutes or half an hour seems needless,

unwise and lazy. While an anti-idling movement is just now beginning to take shape in B.C., the ethic has been drummed into me for years.

My wife, to my horror and embarrassment, has no qualms about walking up to a needlessly-idling vehicle and asking the owner to kill the engine. But, then again, how could anyone refuse her?

My father—whose brilliant practicality becomes more and more ingenious to me the older I get—used to lay a couple of old throw rugs on the windshield of his Dodge to keep from having to scrape in the morning.

The wisdom behind Invermere’s push to reduce idling among the town’s largest fleet of vehicles—parents who drive their children to school—is undeniable. It saves money, saves the environment, creates a healthier atmosphere for the kids, teaches them a good ethic, and keeps them physically active.

While I am not immune to the urge to let it idle, I promise to tough it out and resist that urge and run that engine only as much as is absoultely necessary.

December 7, 2007

Guess who?

Back in 1943, this young Canadian from Outlook, Saskatchewan was serving with the RCAF’s Number 6 Bomber Group in England when he visited Edinburgh, Scotland on leave and thought it would be a good joke to have his photograph taken in full Scottish regalia, in spite of the fact that there wasn’t a Scottish bone in his body.

Today it is unlikely that anyone looking at this photograph would recognize him as Earl Pederson from Columere Park.

Historical Lens

Photo courtesy of Earl Pederson

Public advisory committees questioned Dear Editor: Regarding the article in the November 30th Pioneer called “District recruiting public advisors,” At first glance at the above-mentioned article, I thought: What a good idea.” But upon re-reading, it became apparent that the formation of these so-called advisory planning and design committees was more of a Prosser and Company convenience for acknowledging public interest in their present

and future development approvals.

Let me explain. These committees will be recruited by Prosser and council totally at their discretion. What criteria will they use in the “recruitment” process?

Will there be specific or special qualifications as to selection, or will it be just favourable and compromising personalities on these committees? Talk about stacking the deck.

Whatever method of selection is used, it may

all be an exercise in futility. According to the article, Prosser said: “Council reserves the right to disband the committees at any time.” This has to be a page out of the federally-appointed commmittee that investigated the RCMP. If Prosser and council don’t like what he committee members are saying, “That’s all, folks!”

Bob Nemeth 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 Editor

Rachel Pinder Reporter

Dave Sutherland

Zephyr Rawbon

Michele McGrogan

Sarah Turk

Advertising Sales

Graphic Designer

Office Manager

Project Manager

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

December 7, 2007

Jumbo Resort will spoil water supply Dear Editor: Has anyone noticed how low and how green Toby Creek has become and the smell connected with it?

If the Jumbo development were allowed to go ahead, it would be green up to the head of Jumbo Valley, where the 6,250-bed development would be.

There is only a short distance between the creek and where the mountain goes up at the back of the development.

There is only one place for the run-

off from the sewer to go – down the creek.

Why are we allowing developers to ruin our good water sources by putting developments way in the back country, especially where our closest glaciers are?

It would make more sense to save the Jumbo watershed to meet the future needs here in the main valley.

Good water is and will be very hard to come by in the future.

“The Source” for Rural, Recreational, Resort, Development and Investment Real Estate in B.C.

www.landquest.com

Kootenay Ranch

Rocky Mountain High

133 acres of rolling hills, hayfields, wetlands and high plateaus perfectly sited fronting the Columbia River with outstanding views of the Rockies and Purcells. Fenced, irrigated and ready to go for a small horse ranch, mixed farming or eco-tourism operation. House and outbuildings complete the package. Don’t miss this one! $899,000

Perched above the river valley at the end of a quiet country road this secluded retreat is a naturalist’s paradise. 80 acres of mixed fir and western red cedar forest canopy covers multiple benchlands rising up above the wetlands.

A modest home with outbuildings provide natural comfort with extensive solar exposure. NOT IN ALR. $1,175,000.

Country Estate

Radium Hot Springs $149,900

Windermere private cul-de-sac creek side acreage with spectacular views in every direction. Level and landscaped with flowing water, ponds, and centrally located for golf, skiing and lake. 4000+ sq ft home with commercial options plus workshop and more. $1,650,000

That’s right - $149,900. Quarter share this recreation property on the eighth fairway at Radium Springs Resort and spend carefree weeks in your own cabin without the burden of full ownership. Fully furnished, move right in just bring your golf clubs, skis, bathing suits and game on.

Eileen Fuller Invermere

Please email your Letters to the Editor to upioneer@telus.net, or mail them to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0. You may also drop them into our office at 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.

Mountainside Pro Shop

Grant Costello • cell 1-250-342-1052 • toll free 1-866-558-5263 LandQuest Realty Corporation - Kootenay Rockies • Timber Rock Business Centre www.landquest.com • email: grantc@landquest.com

Have a golfer on your shopping list?

Get your Christmas gifts here!

Up to 50% OFF all clothing, merchandise and equipment Golf clubs starting at $25.00 2008 Book of 10 Golf Passes on sale now for only $449.00 *Tax not included

We make you look good

Open Saturdays and Sundays in December 10.00am - 4.00pm Fairmont Hot Springs Resort For more information: Call: 250.345.6311 info@fairmonthotsprings.com

A L W A Y S

T H E

S M A R T

C H O I C E !

Columbia Valley Shoppers Special… $ from

90* per night.

The Sandman Advantage:

Experience the Power of

*Columbia Valley Shoppers Special from $90 per

Centrally located +

night, includes breakfast for two at Denny’s 24

73 comfortable guest rooms +

hour Restaurant. Based on double occupancy.

In-room high speed Internet available +

Rates quoted in Canadian funds. Subject to

Kitchenettes +

availability. Some restrictions may apply.

Promo Products

Denny’s 24 hour Restaurant + Room service + Indoor pool + Business Centre

405 Cranbrook St, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 3R5 Phone 250 426 4236 Fax 250 426 3905

For Central Reservations, call 1+800+SANDMAN or visit us at sandmanhotels.com

4, 108 Industrial Road #2 Invermere

Phone 342 2999

palliserprinting.com

866 342 2999

IF

YOU

CAN

TOLL FREE

DREAM

I T,

WE

CAN

C R E AT E

IT!

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Mickey’s Auto Body closes its doors

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff When Mickey Riches locked the doors of his business for the last time last Friday, he had two things on his mind . . . the first was to play more golf, and the second was to take a much-needed holiday.

You see, Mickey hasn’t been on holiday for longer than a week in the past 27 years, so he’s definitely overdue.

And although he realizes he won’t be able to play any golf through the winter, he has got his sights set on a vacation to Mexico with his wife Helga. And maybe he’ll be able to fit in a spot of golf there, too.

He’ll also have a lot more time on his hands to spend with his two children—Vaughn, 32, and Brandi, 30—and his three grandchildren; Jersey, 3; Cassia, 2; and six-month-old Josie.

Mickey, 51, has been thinking about retirement ever since he sunk a hole in one at the valley’s Tiger Open Golf Tournament this summer, when he was struck with an epiphany.

He decided that after 35 years in the automotive industry he was missing his true calling—golf.

Mickey started Mickey’s Auto Body 27 years ago with his silent business partner and friend, the late

John Spellmann, and began by fixing vehicles in the industrial park.

In 1987, Mickey bought John out and moved to his shop to its present location at the top of Athalmer Hill.

Over the years, Mickey has worked on everything from cars and boats to airplanes and children’s toys.

He’s also had many interesting experiences, including the time a customer brought in their vehicle after they’d hit a deer which was already dead and frozen to the road.

And he’ll never forget the man who claimed to have hit a sasquatch.

Mickey says his favourite thing is when people call and ask for a quote over the phone, to which his response has always been: “If you can hold your car a little closer to the phone, I will tell you.”

He’s also seen huge changes over the years, in the way cars are being built and the way ICBC is run.

Mickey moved to the valley with his parents from Calgary when he was 15. His father Tracy was also in the car trade, and ran his business called Tracy’s Autobody in the valley for many years.

Business partners Justin Atterbury, Jason Powers and Michael Richards of Interspire Holdings have taken over the car hire side of the business, Mic Ridge

Thanks Invermere!

After 26 years of serving the valley, it’s time to close the bay doors and start a new chapter in life. Mickey would like to thank all of the customers and employees who have helped make Mickey’s Auto Body a successful and enjoyable business.

See you on the golf course!

Auto Rentals, which was run by Mickey’s wife Helga.

They will be operating from the current premises for the next couple of weeks, before they move down to a site next to Dairy Queen.

But unfortunately nobody has taken over the auto body shop, so Columbia Valley residents will now have to travel to Golden or Cranbrook.

Mickey is planning to stick around the valley, but is certainly not opposed to starting out his retirement by checking out golf courses in faraway places.

As proud as he is to have served the community for as long as he has, Mickey said it is time to start a new chapter and is looking forward to what the future holds.

“It’s a strange feeling, as I’ve spent my whole life here, but I’m happy with my decision. I’ve never had more than one week’s holiday in my life, and I’d really like to go to Mexico or Arizona,” Mickey said. And luckily for Mickey, he already has his passport.

But he has just one more request before he hangs up his tools for the last time. “I really want to thank everybody I’ve ever worked with over the years, for making Mickey’s Auto Body a great success,” he said.

So watch out for Mickey on a golf course near you, or maybe you’ll bump into him on a beach when you’re on holiday in Mexico.

We would like to thank all of you who helped make Mic Ridge Auto Rentals such a wonderful business.

We would like to extend our congratulations and best wishes to Justin, Jason and Michael, as they endeavor to provide you with the same great service.

> >>>

Encore

Page 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

THE WHITE MASAI

MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 10

BOOK REVIEW

PAGE 21

Out & About The White Masai, directed by Hermine Huntgeburth, is a 2005 movie about a Swiss woman who marries a member of the African Masai tribe. The film, based upon an autobiographical novel

by Swiss writer Corinne Hofmann, is the next feature in the Cinefest Film Series.

Valley Voices Concert · Christ Church Trinity

Valley Voices Christmas Concert at Christ Church Trinity on December 6th & 7th at 7:30 pm. Tickets at Dave’s, Essentials & Pynelogs.

Cinefest · Toby Theatre · The White Masai

Showing at the Toby Theatre on Monday December 17th at 7 pm.

What does ART mean to you?

Pynelogs Cultural Centre • Gallery & Gift Shop closed for the season.

Open for functions, ticket sales, rentals and concerts. Office hours: 11 – 4 pm Monday to Friday. For ticket sales and all other info please call 342-4423 .

Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 342-4423.

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

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

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

Purcell Mtn. Quilting Co. Red Bow Sample Sale

CEDAR WAXWING—Just outside the patio door at Lakeside Manor, there is an ornamental crab apple tree loaded with fruit. Within three days the crop was harvested, first

by Bohemian waxwings and then by their cousins the Cedar Waxwings.

Photo by Ray Crook

20% - 40% off Find a special gift for that special person

GREAT DEALS RIGHT UP TO CHRISTMAS ON ALL YOUR QUILTING NEEDS! #9 - 492 Arrow Rd.

Review: Nanny Diaries

341-3115

Reviewed by Elinor Florence

the place to party

Book your Xmas parties and outings NOW! Pizza • Appies • Cocktails • Reserve a Pool Table!

NHL NFL on the BIG SCREENS BUY 1 PIZZA, GET 1 FREE

Fridays • Sundays • Wednesdays 2nd Pizza of equal or lesser value FREE Open til 2 a.m. daily Located in the Invermere Inn • (250) 341-3344

Gone

HOLLYWOOD V

I D E O

The Nanny Diaries created a big sensation when the book was first published a few years ago. Written by two former nannies, it is a blistering satire about the lives of New York’s Upper East Side mothers who are so busy shopping, lunching and keeping themselves looking young so their wealthy husbands won’t leave them, that they don’t have any time to parent their own children.

The movie stars the always-engaging 23-year-old Scarlett Johannsen as a character known only as Nanny by her employers, Mr. and Mrs. X—a truly unlikeable husband and his glamorous but shallow wife. Nanny is hired to care for their four-year-old son Grayer, and in spite of herself she forms a deep attachment to the unloved little boy.

A recent college graduate herself, Nanny is struggling to find her place in life and discovers through her observations of life among the rich and famous that this is definitely not it.

Gone Hollywood’s

TOP FIVE OF THE WEEK Last Week’s Top 5 Rentals 1 2 3 4 5

Live Free or Die Hard Hot Rod I Know Who Killed Me Rescue Dawn I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry

New Releases December 4 1 Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End 2 Superbad 3 The Nanny Diaries 4 Loves Unending Legacy 5 Arctic Tale

New Releases December 4 1 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix 2 Bourne Ultimatum 3 A Perfect Day 4 First Snow 5 December Boys

Hence she is reluctant to engage in a romance with the Harvard Hottie who lives in the same building, fearing that she might end up in the same boat as the other crazed young mothers she sees every day.

Laura Linney does a great job of portraying Mrs. X, a driven woman who is downright cruel to the hired help, but essentially just as fragile and starved for love as her neglected child.

Paul Giamatti, who usually has comic roles, plays the repulsive Mr. X. Pop singer Alicia Keys has a small role as Nanny’s friend, and she is dropdead gorgeous as usual.

This isn’t a comedy, but there are a couple of laugh-out-loud moments.

And thankfully, a happy ending. I would recommend this movie to girls and mothers everywhere, and Dads only if it’s their turn to watch something their wives select.

RATING: 7 OUT OF 10 HEADS

DVD +VHS + PS2 + PS3 + XBOX + XBOX 360 + GQ + Wii PO Box 2800, 503 - 7th Ave., Invermere, V0A 1K0

342-0057

ghvinvermere@hotmail.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

December 7, 2007

MUSIC • VISUAL ARTS • DINING • BAR SCENE • ENTERTAINMENT • PERFORMANCE ARTS Monday, December 10th:

Out & About

• 2-7 pm: Early Bird Swim Registration at Radium Pool for all Red Cross and Otter Club programs.

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

• 1-4 pm: Meet with your MLA Norm Macdonald at the downtown Invermere Inn. Call ahead to make an appointment, 1-866-870-4188.

Tuesday, December 11th:

Thursday, December 13th:

Toby Theatre • 7:30 pm, Dec. 5-8: Dan in Real Life • 7:30 pm, Dec. 12-15: Martian Child

Friday, December 7th : • Panorama Mountain Village opens for the ski season.

• 9 am: Regional District of East Kootenay monthly general meeting, Cranbrook.

• 10 am-noon, 1-3 pm: Visit Santa at the Prestige Inn. Admission by donation. Bring your own camera.

Fundraiser for Columbia Valley Family Violence Prevention Society.

• Noon-8 pm: Doreen’s Avon Open House, 4836 Stanley Street, Radium.

• 7 pm: Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club open house at Columbia Cycle sports store. Free ski tuning/waxing demos and advice, ski lesson registration, early season membership discounts. For info: 341-1737.

• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Chase Chiefs, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

• 7:30 pm: Valley Voices Community Choir Christmas Concert, Christ Church Trinity. Tickets $12 adults, $5 students, $2 for children under six, at Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials, and Trims & Treasures in Fairmont.

• Andi will make home deliveries of Schöni Artisan Wood Oven Breads on Tuesdays and Fridays, through March. For more info, call 342-7590.

Saturday, December 8th : • 10 am-noon, 1-3 pm: Visit Santa at the Prestige Inn in Radium. Admission by donation. Bring your own camera. Fundraiser for Columbia Valley Family Violence Prevention Society.

• Noon-8 pm: Doreen’s Avon Open House, 4836 Stanley Street, Radium.

• 7:30 pm: Christmas dance, Columbia Valley Twirlers Square Dance Club of Radium at Radium Community Centre. Guest caller Rob Krum, Newman Lake, WA. For info: Albert, 347-6573.

• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Princeton Posse, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

• 2:30-3:30 pm: Travel Medicine and Vaccination Centre at Dr. Dibbs; medical office, 1317-7th Avenue, Invermere, will have a one-hour drop-in for people who did not qualify for free vaccine. Cost for flu vaccine is $20.

• Thrift Store half-price sale December 13th, 14th, 15th and 20th. Thrift Store will be closed over Christmas, from December 21st to January 9th.

• 7 pm: David Thompson Secondary School band concert. Silver collection at the door.

Friday, December 14th : • 4 pm: Wings Over the Rockies annual general meeting, followed by regular board meeting, at Pynelogs Centre.

• 5:30 pm: Invermere Rotary Club presents the Dinner for Seniors, Invermere Inn. To register, call 342-4242.

• 6:45 pm: CPR Holiday Train arrives in Radium.

Entertainment by Wide Mouth Mason and Melanie Doan. Bring food item or cash for the food bank.

• Today is the deadline for donating food items or cash towards the Christmas Bureau’s food hampers.

To donate an Angel Tree gift, visit the children’s Angel Tree at Dairy Queen or the adult and teen Angel Tree at Dave’s Book Bar. For info: Gail, 342-6752 or Helen, 342-6789. If you are making up your own hamper, drop it off at the Invermere Community Hall from 8 am to noon on December 19th.

• 5 p.m. Deadline for booking Christmas and New Year’s advertising in The Pioneer. Call 341-6299.

Saturday, December 15th : • Free two-day drum-making workshop for aboriginal youth starts today in the Town of Golden meeting room. For info: (250) 344-8924.

• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Sicamous Eagles, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Sunday, December 16th : • 2 pm: Santa on Vacation Ice Carnival, presented by

the Columbia Valley Figure Skating Club at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. Concession, door prizes.

• 2 pm: Children’s Christmas Party at the Windermere Hall. Santa, free goodie bags, and hot chocolate.

• 6 pm: Lakeside Pub’s Annual Food Bank Benefit Concert. Bring a non-perishable food item.

• 5:45-6:45 pm: Free Skate at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, sponsored by Tim Hortons. A Tim Hortons’ bicycle will be raffled off, along with other prizes. Free hot chocolate and cookies.

Monday, December 17th: • 7 pm: Cinefest presents the White Masai, Toby Theatre, tickets $10 each.

Wednesday, December 19th : • Christmas Hamper distribution day. Donors must deliver their hampers to the Invermere Community Hall from 8 am to noon; recipients may pick up hampers from 3 pm to 7 pm.

• Western Canadian Bartender Flair Competition at Bud’s Bar. Come and watch the top six Western Canadian bartenders in action and help raise money for the Pet Rescue Network. For info: 342-2965.

Friday, December 21st: • Invermere Thrift Store closed from now until January 9th. Merry Christmas!

• 7 pm: Cinefest presents the White Masai, Toby Theatre, tickets $10 each.

• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Sicamous Eagles, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Invermere Library Hours: • Tuesday & Friday: 10 am-5:30 pm • Wednesday: noon-8 pm • Thursday: noon-5:30 pm • Saturday: 10 am-4 pm

Radium Library Hours: • Tuesday - 7-9 pm • Wednesday: 2-4 pm • Thursday: 2-4 pm, 7-9 pm • Saturday: 10 am-noon • Sunday: 2-4 pm

Invermere Thrift Store Hours: • 10 am-4 pm: Thursdays.

• 1-4 pm: Fridays and Saturdays.

• Half-price sale December 13th, 14th, 15th and 20th. Thrift Store closed from December 21st to January 9th.

A New Year’s Toast with a Special Host Be a part of the inaugural New Year’s celebration with your friends at Eagle Ranch! It is sure to be a special evening highlighted with Chef, Eric Wood’s six-course tasting menu. Dance to live entertainment, lift your glass for a complimentary champagne toast, and bask in the glamour as we treat you to a Service Beyond experience like no other. Think fast, act soon, seating is limited! Tickets $100, 4 seating times beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Elevate Your New Year’s Experience Call 1-877-877-3889 or locally 342-6560 and before noon 342-0562 • www.eagleranchresort.com

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Welcome in the New Year at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort New Year’s Eve Gala

Join us in the Cedar Ballroom for a New Years party you won’t soon forget! Dinner, live entertainment, dancing, party favours and a glass of bubbly at midnight. Casual elegant dress; this party is for those 16 years and older. *Advance tickets are required. $52.95 per person plus GST. Available at the Front Desk

For tickets 250.345.6311 info@fairmonthotsprings.com

Shelley invites you to help celebrate

2nd Year Anniversary with

Saturday, Dec. 15th Wednesday, Dec. 19th

The Best in the West!

Western Canadian Bartender Flair Competition

$2000 1

st

Prize

Come and watch the “Top 6 Western Canadian Competitors” enjoy great drinks from our drink auction, and help raise money for the ICAN, Pet Rescue Network

Bud’s is where it’s at!

342-2965

O B J E C T I V E , C R E AT I V E , N E W S PA P E R

I N F O R M AT I V E !

The valley’s best read newspaper! 6,000 copies from Cranbrook to Golden. 2,000 copies in Calgary.

Read us online at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • E-mail: upioneer@telus.net • Phone: (250) 341-6299

Community Foundation awards annual grants to seven valley charities

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

Wildsight was awarded $2,034.59 for their project “Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities— Lake Windermere Project: Streamkeeper.”

This project aims to provide a specialized kit and allow training for people to use the kit to monitor health of streams in the area.

The information from this kit will generate data that will be used by the Department ofFisheries and Oceans and

Seven registered charities across the Columbia Valley are celebrating after being awarded grants totalling $13,734.59.

The grants for the fall of 2007 have been awarded by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated Seona Helmer, to enhancing quality of Foundation Chair life across the valley, from Canal Flats to SpillimWildsight. acheen.

The Columbia River Greenways Their aim is to work in the comAlliance received a grant of $2,000 to munity by focusing on fundraising and grant-making, using monetary dona- construct the Dry Gulch Trail ( Radium to Dry Gulch segment), and two signs tions.

These donations are invested, pri- at the Dry Gulch Kiosk.

In May 2006, ground trail conmarily in permanent and endowment funds, and are distributed to worth- struction began and the Radium to Dry Gulch section should be completed by while charities.

Foundation chair Seona Helmer ex- December 2008.

This trail, once complete, will be a plained that each year applications are key piece of the group’s work to install submitted for grants in the spring and both a greenway and trail network that fall.

The seven organizations which spans the length of the Upper Columbenefited are the Christmas Bureau of bia River Valley from Canal Flats to the Columbia Valley, which received Donald, north of Golden.

And finally, the Family Resource a $1,500 grant for a computer and printer; Columbia Valley Arts Council, Centre was awarded $2,000 to bring which was awarded $2,200 to make im- speaker Jackson Katz to Invermere on provements to exterior safety and secu- December 13th to discuss gender viority lighting at Pynelogs Cultural Cen- lence.

The Columbia Valley Foundation tre; and the Windermere Valley Youth has been going since 2001, and there Centre Society, which received $1,500 are similar organisations across Canada. for its River of Change project.

The Foundation has about $600,000 This project is the second annual Youth Empowerment Camp to be held invested, but is limited by its charter at Blue Lake Camp. There will be a to giving gifts only to registered chariguest speaker who is licensed to provide ties. In the past five years, it has funded “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective many projects from Lake Windermere playground to the Columbia Valley Teens” workshop.

Wilmer Community Club was also wetlands.

Other organizations can be supa big winner. The club made an application through the Windermere Val- ported, but only through registered ley Youth Centre Society, and received charities. Some funds have been given $2,500 to create a new playground to to the District of Invermere to support replace the old one which is old and groups within the District such as the Arts Council and the skatepark. run-down.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

December 7, 2007

Wilmer environmentalist receives prestigious medal Wilmer resident James Thorsell has been presented with the prestigious James B. Harkin Conservation Medal for his outstanding contribution to conserving wilderness and national parks around the world.

Dr. Thorsell, 66, formerly of Banff, received the award on November 21st at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society.

The J. B. Harkin medal, named after “the father of Canada’s national parks,” is presented by the society to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to conserving Canada’s parks and associated conservation areas. Past recipients include the Honourable Jean Chrétien, Dr. Stan Rowe Dr. James Thorsell on the White River. and Elizabeth May. Photo by Grant Costello Dr. Thorsell’s distinguished 45-year career began with piofor naming Canada’s Nahanni Naneering academic research on parks tional Park Reserve as UNESCO’s and wilderness in Canada. He first natural World Heritage Site. moved on to work for Canadian He evaluated more than 150 natupark agencies, and in 1984 became ral sites for the Commission on executive officer of World Con- National Parks, resulting in one servation Union Commission on million square kilometres of land National Parks and Protected Areas being brought under the World based in Switzerland, and the se- Heritage Convention. nior advisor to the World Heritage The Canadian Parks and WilCommittee. derness Society is Canada’s leading Dr. Thorsell was responsible voice for public wilderness protec-

tion and has had a key role in establishing over two-thirds of Canada’s protected areas since 1963.

Dr. Thorsell alternates his time between Wilmer and his second home in Mexico. He is still working part-time on world heritage sites for UNESCO, which has taken him to China and Galapagos Islands over the past two months.

“Exotic as that may seem, my heart and my roots are still in the Rockies and I am already looking forward to getting back in the spring,” he said.

“I spend a lot of time at Nipika Lodge where I am a partner and take a special interest in the Columbia wetlands, particularly now that it is a Ramsar site, and needs commenserate attention. The Nature Conservancy Board is also an effective group and, as a Board member for B.C., I do what I can to promote their work.

“I am also on the Board of the Mark Kingsbury Foundation who, as you may know, has been supporting the Greenways project. On a very local level I am also on the committee who are working to arrange some events to commemorate the arrival in Canada of the famous mountain guide Conrad Kain, another former Wilmer resident. This barely leaves time for my hunting, fishing and horse trips!”

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING Open ‘til 8 pm every Friday until Christmas!

• Pre-done Gift Baskets • Customized Gift Baskets • Great Stocking Stuffers • Gourmet Food & Beverages • Barefoot Venus Spa Products • Home Decor & Centrepieces www.begifted.com

7th Ave. Invermere 341-3775

In store specials for late night shopping!

We now offer gift wrapping services!

S ol i d W o od Bl i n d s Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

Pretty Woman “Look as pretty as you feel”

We will fit you from head to toe in fine designs ranging from business, casual or evening.

NEW FALL ARRIVALS AND “RED HATS”

OPEN: Tuesday through Saturday 9 to 5

323 Kootenay Street North, Cranbrook (250) 426-3356

No more searching for the lowest mortgage rates…

Great rates, products and service www.meridianmortgagesolutions.com

Bill Rainbow Mortgage Broker (250) 342-3453

DTSS Bands in Concert

Thursday December 13th DTSS Gym 7:00 pm Band 9, Band 8, Sr. Concert Band, Sr. Stage Band Silver Collection at door Thank you for your support!

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 December 4th 4.50% 4.65% 4.65% 4.65% 4.80% 4.90% 5.00%

New USD High Interest Savings Accounts No minimum balances 4.30% 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.

-ANAGING 0ROTECTING AND 'ROWING 7EALTH "T B IJHI OFU XPSUI JOWFTUPS ZPV IBWF TQFDJBM OFFET BOE IJHI FYQFDUBUJPOT 8F IBWF B EFEJDBUFE UFBN PG QSPGFTTJPOBMT XIP XJMM XPSL XJUI ZPVS mOBODJBM BEWJTPS UP FOTVSF ZPVS DPNQMFUF TBUJTGBDUJPO "U .BDLFO[JF T 1SJWBUF $MJFOU (SPVQ QSFTFSWJOH BOE HSPXJOH UIF XFBMUI ZPV IBWF BDIJFWFE JT PVS EFEJDBUFE GPDVT 'PS DMJFOUT XJUI PS NPSF UP JOWFTU XF PÄŠFS t 5BY BOE &TUBUF 1MBOOJOH JODMVEJOH UBJMPSFE 5BY BOE &TUBUF 4USBUFHZ 3FQPSU

t "DDFTT UP B HMPCBM OFUXPSL PG XPSME DMBTT NPOFZ NBOBHFST t $VTUPNJ[FE UBY FÄ‹DJFOU BOE PQUJNJ[FE QPSUGPMJPT t "UUSBDUJWF GFFT TVJUFE UP UIF TJ[F PG ZPVS BDDPVOU t $MFBS BOE DPNQSFIFOTJWF RVBSUFSMZ SFQPSUJOH t "DDFTT UP "MUFSOBUJWF *OWFTUNFOU 4USBUFHJFT QSFWJPVTMZ POMZ BWBJMBCMF UP MBSHF DPSQPSBUJPOT PS UIF WFSZ XFBMUIZ *OUFSFTUFE JO MFBSOJOH NPSF BCPVU UIFTF PQQPSUVOJUJFT 1MFBTF DPOUBDU NF GPS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO #SFOEBO %POBIVF #$0.. $*. '." *OWFTUNFOU "EWJTPS #FSLTIJSF 4FDVSJUJFT *OD

+BTPO &MGPSE

$FSUJmFE 'JOBODJBM 1MBOOFS #FSLTIJSF *OWFTUNFOU (SPVQ *OD

#OMMISSIONS TRAILING COMMISSIONS MANAGEMENT FEES AND EXPENSES ALL MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENTS 0LEASE READ THE PROSPECTUS BEFORE INVESTING -UTUAL FUNDS ARE NOT GUARANTEED THEIR VALUES CHANGE FREQUENTLY AND PAST PERFORMANCE MAY NOT BE REPEATED 4HIS AD HAS BEEN PAID FOR IN PART BY -ACKENZIE &INANCIAL

December 7, 2007

YOUR MONEY Two new special trusts oer tax advantages

Like other trusts, the alter ego trust and joint spousal trust allow you to avoid probate.

But these two recently introduced trusts oer unique tax advantages as well.

Normally, when you transfer assets to a trust, our tax law treats those assets as if they had been sold.

That means if there had been any increase in the value of those assets since the date they were originally acquired, a tax would have to be paid on that increase.

However, when you transfer assets to an alter ego trust or a joint spousal trust, this does not happen.

Although the trust is in fact the new owner of the assets, from an income tax perspective, the transfer of ownership is treated as if it had never happened.

So even if there had been an increase in the value of the assets, there would be no tax on that increase.

Conditions for creating the trusts: For one thing, you must be 65 or older to use the alter ego trust or the joint spousal trust.

And in order for the trust to qualify as an alter ego trust, you must be the sole beneďŹ ciary during your lifetime.

Prior to your death, all income in the trust will be payable to you and you will pay all the tax on that income. As well, you can also access the capital in the trust.

When you die, the trust will hold any remaining assets for the beneďŹ t of other beneďŹ ciaries named in the trust deed.

The trust will be able to distribute those assets to those other beneďŹ ciaries without the assets having to go through the probate process.

You could also choose to gift the assets to a joint

spousal trust. In a joint spousal trust, the initial beneďŹ ciaries must be you and your spouse during your respective lifetimes.

On the death of the surviving spouse, the trust would start to hold the trust assets for other persons you name in the trust deed. In particular, your spouse would not be able to change the identity of these ultimate beneďŹ ciaries.

Example of how it works: Here’s an example of how you can use a spousal trust to ensure your assets are distributed exactly how you want.

Let’s assume a married couple with two children.

One spouse dies and the other remarries.

If the deceased spouse had simply left their assets to the other spouse in a will, it would be possible for the new spouse to eventually inherit all the assets and the children get nothing.

However, if the deceased spouse had created a joint spousal trust, with the children as beneďŹ ciaries, this could not happen.

The surviving spouse would receive an income from the trust while alive. Upon their death, the assets of the trust would go to the children.

Trusts in general are important for four reasons.

A trust lets you avoid the public process of probate.

A trust is more powerful than a will in ensuring your wishes are carried out. A trust helps you optimize your estate’s tax situation. A trust allows you to create unique ďŹ nancial solutions.

If you want information about how a trust may help your estate, or your tax planning, contact your lawyer or an estate planning expert.

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 December 4th, 2007

13,657 13,314 15,628 $89.31 $794.70 $0.9998

Weekly Gain/Loss

336.16 571.58 493.97 -8.39 16.70 -0.0091

YTD

5.80% 6.83% -9.76% 46.29% 24.17% 19.48%

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 oďŹƒce 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 oďŹƒce with Brendan Donahue.

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

Phone: 342-5052

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

December 7, 2007

Panorama opens today with plenty of powder

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Snow bunnies are all set to try out the first runs of the season at Panorama this weekend, which opens for business today, December 7th.

Earlier this week, a huge storm dumped over 60 centimetres of snow on the mountain, setting Panorama up for an excellent opening to the season.

According to Marke Dickson, Panorama’s marketing manager, Environment Canada is calling for yet another cool and snowy winter in the B.C. Rockies region.

“All climate models suggest that the 2007/08 snow season will be outstanding and so far the forecasters have it right,” he said.

According to Mr Dickson, the winter is off to a fantastic start. “Last month, Panorama hosted World Cup ski racing and over 140 million people saw just how much snow there is on this mountain, and that was before this huge storm,” he said.

Panorama opens with the full 4000 vertical feet of terrain available and eight out of nine lifts open. For more, visit www.skipanorama.com.

The next generation of Canadian ski racing champions have been testing out the runs this week, at the Alpine Canada Alpin National Training Centre at Panorama Mountain Village.

Devonian Properties Rising Star camps are bringing future ski racing prospects to the training centre over the next couple of weeks.

Devonian Properties Inc. is a land developer which operates a number of properties in Canmore and Fort McMurray, Alberta, and has made a threeyear commitment to the development camps.

The camps include training in slalom, giant slalom, super-G and skills training, in addition to many different drills, tests and exercises both on and off the hill.

The top 35 ski racers in Canada aged 15 and 16 years old were at the Panorama National Training Centre for the J1 Devonian Rising Stars development camp from Sunday to Thursday this week.

They will be followed by another 35 teens aged 13 and 14 from across Canada for the K2 Devonian Rising Stars from December 12th to December 16th.

MLA MEETING DAY Tuesday, December 11th 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Panorama opens with top to bottom skiing!

The World Cup party may be over but we’re ready to ski and the fun is just beginning.

On behalf of all the crew at Panorama Mountain Village, thanks for showing the best of our valley to the world!

Don’t miss another epic winter, buy your Season Pass now.

CO LU M B I A VA L L E Y P I O N E E R H O L I DAY P R O M OT I O N

Book Now To Wish The Columbia Valley

M Christmas H N Y

Best Western Invermere Inn (downtown)

Call ahead to make an appointment

1-866-870-4188 www.NormMacdonald.ca norm.m

Two Ads, Any Size

% Discount DECEMBER 21

ST

AND

DECEMBER 28 ISSUES TH

ADVERTISING DEADLINE: December 10th, 2007 Call or e-mail to book your ads now!

N E W S PA P E R

Box 868 · Invermere, B.C. · V0A 1K0 Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: (250) 341-6229 e-mail: upioneer@telus.net

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Exercise machine latest fitness tool

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

Melanie Hollowink on vibration machine.

If sweating it out in the gym is not for you, a new revolutionary vibrational exercise therapy could be just the thing to remove those unwanted inches.

Melanie Hollowink recently opened Pure Wellness at her home on Canyon View Road in Invermere, which offers the use of a Proellixe Vibration machine.

For those people who can’t exercise due to injury, or even just lack of time or motivation, it’s easy to step on the machine for 10 minutes per day.

The machine works in an oscillating motion, so muscles automatically react by stretching and contracting.

Melanie, who previously ran the Body and Soul gift shop with her mother Lila Fodchuk in Invermere for 12 years, was born and raised in the valley. It was while running the shop that

Melanie’s interest in aromatherapy and health and wellness developed.

Six months ago she met a friend who told her about vibration therapy treatment she had been having in Cochrane, Alberta. Melanie went along to try out the machine a couple of times and really liked it.

“Six weeks later, I’d lost two inches off my sides. I started feeling really good, and I had more energy throughout the day. I got hooked, and I thought it would be wonderful to bring this vibration therapy to Invermere, so people in the valley can enjoy the benefits too.”

Melanie explained that the machine tones and firms muscles, reduces cellulite, relieves pain and helps injury recovery. “And it enhances energy and mood, as well as reducing stress, balancing hormones and creating an overall sense of well-being,” she said.

She explained that people who’ve had a sports injury will benefit as this is

an easy way to work out without fear of aggravating a weakness.

She claims that 10 minutes is equivalent to a two-hour workout.

“Some of our clients have been coming since day one, and the results they’ve seen already are amazing. After just one month, five out of five clients lost inches and overall they are all seeing results. Their energy levels are amazing, they have increased flexibility and they just feel stronger.”

Pure Wellness also offers vitamin juices and detox teas, as well as detox bath salts. There are also soya bean lotion candles available and salt crystal lamps, which help to purify the air.

The first three sessions are free. A custom-made program will then be drawn up, which caters specifically to their needs, based on the individual’s health restraints and what they hope to achieve by using the machine. For more information, call 342-5535.

Invermere Volunteer Fire Department

to everyone who contributed to the very successful Firemen’s Ball.

A&W Acklands Affordable Floors AG Foods Anglz Arnage Consultants Ateknor Enterprises Ltd. Avion Construction Azure Massage and Wellness Bargain Shop Best Western Invermere Inn Blue Dog BMO Canwest Propane Cardell Homes Columbia Valley Airport Columbia Valley Rockies Columbia Valley Trading Co. Cutloose Hair Saloon Dairy Queen Dave’s Book Bar Deck Electric Details by Jo Anne District of Invermere Dollar Store DR Sports Eagle Ranch East Kootenay Realty Essence Of Sound Essentials Fairmont Goldsmith Fusion Wellness Spa Gerry’s Gelati Godlien Small Engine Inc. Gone Hollywood Grant’s Foods GreyWolf Golf Course Gypsum Dry Wall

High Country Properties Hippi Chic Home Hardware Inside Edge Boutique Interior World Invermere Candyland Invermere Sales & Rental Invermere Vet Clinic It’s a Wrap Kicking Horse Coffee Kicking Horse Ford Konig Meats Kool Country Auto Parts Lake Auto Lake Windermere Point Lambert Insurance Lambert Kipp Pharmacy Lordco Majestic U Brew & Wine Marion Ekman /Avon Max Helmer Construction McToogle’s Restaurant Monkey’s Uncle Mr. Tire Mustard Seed Napa Auto Parts Oasis Gifts One Hour Photo Outdoor Store Palliser Printing Pamper Yourself Spa Panorama Peacock Embroidering Penner’s Shoes Peppi’ s Pizza Pete’s Marina Petro Canada Pointe of View

Portabella Restaurant Pro West Exteriors Ptarmigan Rug Cleaners Quiniscoe Homes Radium Esso Radium Valley Vacation Resort RCI Travel RK Heli Ski Rob’s Bicycle Works Rock Works Landscaping Roger’s Recharge Rona Scrappy Do’s Sears Shaw Enterprises Skandia Concrete Skookum Family Restaurant Skookum Inn Smith, Green & Andruschuck Accountants Strand’s Restaurant Superior Propane Syndicate Board Shop Tamara’s Jewelry by Design Te Papa Nui The Place The Source Tiffany’s Thredz Tim Hortons Touch of Dutch Town and Country Feed Travel World Valley Fitness Center Valley Hair Styling Valley Shine Shop Walkers Auto Repair Warwick Interiors Windermere Valley Golf Course

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

December 7, 2007

Panorama opens with top to bottom skiing!

The World Cup party may be over but we’re ready to ski and the fun is just beginning.

On behalf of all the crew at Panorama Mountain Village, thanks for showing the best of our valley to the world!

Don’t miss another epic winter, buy your Season Pass now.

Get on board!

Syndicate Boardshop had its grand opening last weekend at the former Reddi-Mart store in Athalmer. Here business partners Jeremy Donald and Eric Lange pose with the new range of kit in their store, which stocks mainly snowboarding apparel, but has moved into skis, wakeboards, skateboards, shoes and accessories to go with it, from sunglasses to hoodies. Syndicate staff and friends also celebrated the opening at Bud’s Bar on Saturday. For information call 342-3839 or visit www.syndicateboardshop.com.

Christmas comes early at We are paying the taxes for the month of December!

We are open Wednesday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm

Ph: 342-0707 e-mail: klein@nucleus.com • www.tepapanui.com Invermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

WELCOMES JULIE Are you looking for a fun innovative stylist, a salon with an upbeat atmosphere and a fabulous price?

Phone Hair Tricks at 342-7264 and book your appointment with Julie or Teresa just in time for the holiday season.

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Mom’s Hockey Moments

By Cheryl Bachinski Pioneer Columnist

CARS

1997 Mercury Sable V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07276B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,995 1999 Chrysler Concorde LX V6, Auto Loaded Stk#T08152A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,995 2002 Ford Focus SE 4 cyl, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1114A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,995 2002 Acura I-7 4 cyl, Auto, Loaded Stk#T08073A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14,995 2002 Pontiac Grand Am V6, Auto Loaded Stk#T07492A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$6,995 2004 Chrysler Intrepid V6, Auto Loaded Stk#U1158A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9,995 2004 Pontiac Vibe GT 4cyl, 6 spd, loaded Stk#C08003A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15,995 2005 Dodge SX2.0 4cyl, Auto, A/C Stk#U1083A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10,995 2005 Nissan Altima SE V6, Auto, Leather, Loaded Stk#C07193A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $21,995 2006 Chevy Aveo 4cyl, 5spd, A/C Stk#U1048A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,995 2006 Chrysler 300 Ltd V6, Auto, Leather, Loaded Stk#T07507C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $24,995 2007 Chrysler Sebring Touring V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1132 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$19,900

TRUCKS

2007 Dodge Ram 3500 QC Diesel, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#U1163 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $43,900 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab Diesel, 6 spd, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07458A . . . . . . . $35,995 2004 Ford F350 Ext Cab Diesel, Auto Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07125A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$24,995 2003 Ford F350 Ext Cab Diesel, 6 spd, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07542A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$19,995 2003 Dodge 3500 QC Diesel, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07557A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $31,995 2006 GMC 1500 Ext Cab V8, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#U1130 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,995

The games at the rinks have been a bit chillier this past week.

There was, most certainly, a winter “nip” in the air. For a few days, I thought I was back home in Winnipeg. Brrr!

Our Bantam Boys House team heated up the ice at a tournament they attended in Rossland, finishing in an impressive second place overall.

The boys played solid hockey, including a nailbiter on Saturday against Trail, where they were ahead going in to the third until they found themselves with three players in the penalty box. Trail tied up the game on the power play, and Invermere came out with a draw.

They faced off against Kelowna Sunday morning and came away with a big win, sending them into the finals where they faced Beaver Valley. It was a hardfought game. The boys never gave up and secured second place, winning silver medals. Well done, boys!

The boys wish to say “thanks” to their coach, Glen Doucette, and to Peter Torma, who stepped up as trainer on the bench for the weekend. Congratulations on an awesome weekend of hockey.

The Midget girls hosted two league games against Medicine Hat this past weekend. On Saturday, the girls lost 3-0. They out-worked the Medicine Hat team, but could not get the puck past their goalie.

A Charming Holiday Experience!

Enjoy holiday season specials available in the Golf Shop at Eagle Ranch

VANS

1999 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, AWD Stk#C07372B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,995 2002 Pontiac Montana V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07384A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10,995 2002 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07384A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9,995 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan, V6, Stow’n’Go, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1151 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,995

Regular Fall/Winter Hours of Operation: Wed – Sat 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or by special appointment

www.eagleranchresort.com

All Clothing 20–70% off

SUV’S

2007 Jeep Compass 4 cyl, Auto, A/C, 4x4 Stk#C07285A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $22,995 2007 Jeep Patriot 4 cyl, Auto, 4x4, Loaded Stk#T07550A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25,995 2006 Pontiac Torrent V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07363A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,995 2005 Hyundai Tucson V6, Auto, Leather, AWD Stk#T07425C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$20,995 1991 Chevy Blazer V6, Auto, 4x4 Stk#T08108A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,995

To view our full line-up visit www.cranbrookdodge.com 1-800-663-2268 1725 Cranbrook St. (250) 426-6614

They faced off again on Sunday. The girls played solid hockey and their hard work paid off with a 62 win. Becky Olsen had a great game, playing both defensive and offensive positions, netting a hat trick.

Hannah Macklin popped in two goals and Shannon McCarthy scored the other Invermere goal.

The Midget girls are in first place in their division with an impressive 8-2 record. Way to go, girls!

Our Bantam girls traveled to Pincher Creek, playing teams from the Central Alberta league.

The girls represented themselves very well. They carried most of the play throughout the weekend, but came away with a 1-3 record, recording their only win against Okotoks.

They held their own, but had trouble finding the back of the net.

The girls are home for one weekend before they head out for a tournament in Olds. The hockey will be at a higher level, but I am sure our girls are up for the challenge.

I will be busy this week with the Purdy’s Chocolates due to arrive. I have already prepared my husband for a few hours of sorting with me. Thank goodness, I love chocolate!

Thanks to all the minor hockey players for an incredible amount of chocolate sales. Watch for your chocolate order in the next week or so.

Congratulations to Amanda Gould from Radium, who was the lucky winner of our wood ticket raffle.

The draw was made at the Rockies game on Dec. 1st.

Amanda has the choice of a truck-load of firewood or $500 cash.

Congratulations, Amanda, and thank you for supporting Windermere Valley Minor Hockey.

Stuff those stockings with one of our gold star specials: Select Sun Ice jackets now $40. Select Tommy Hilfiger, Greg Norman, Aureus, and Hollas golf shirts now just $25.

Location: The Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch, 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail (From Hwy 93/95, turn at traffic lights. Entrance is on the right. From Invermere, turn left on Eagle Ranch Trail, off Athalmer Road) *Clubhouse closed at 5:00 p.m. Friday, December 14 for scheduled function

Call 1-877-877-3889 or locally 342-0562 for appointment • www.eagleranchresort.com

NOTICE

The Pioneer’s holiday advertising deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, December 14th for both our Christmas issue on December 21st and our New Year’s issue on December 28th.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

December 7, 2007

The Old Zone

By Harold Hazelaar Pioneer Columnist

Brent Raven, Dave Oaks and myself have held the positions for a number of years, (6-4-8 respectively) and I’m beginning to wonder when we will be dumped. So far there are no other nominees. I wonder what that means?

I’m really glad that we don’t have the same rule as the NHL where the team that ices the puck cannot change lines. Can you imagine how many heart attacks we would have if guys had to stay on the ice?

Sadly this season, we are playing hockey each week without seeing Nev Anderson on the ice.

Back in March, at our wind-up banquet, we didn’t get the chance to say good-bye to the feisty goal-scoring machine who played with me four or five of the last seven seasons, because he had to miss our year-end party for family reasons.

So now I am taking the time to publicly say goodbye and thanks for all your contributions to our league.

You truly are a unique character and I am glad to have had the opportunity to be your teammate! Come on tough guy—quit crying!

And finally, just in case you care . . .

Nov. 28th results: Lake Auto over Huckleberry’s, Petro-Can over Inside Edge, Hi Heat tied Valley Vision, and Warwick over Kicking Horse.

CVOHA League Standings WINS

LOSSES

TIES

POINTS

Warwick Wolves

9

1

0

18

Huckleberry Hawks

7

3

1

15

Lake Auto Mustangs

7

3

1

15

Hi Heat Hustlers

5

3

2

12

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes

5

5

1

11

Valley Vision Vultures

4

6

1

9

Inside Edge Black Smoke

4

7

0

8

Kicking Horse Coffee

2

8

1

5

Dale Christian Mudders

1

8

1

3

TEAM

with top to bottom skiing!

The World Cup party may be over but we’re ready to ski and the fun is just beginning.

On behalf of all the crew at Panorama Mountain Village, thanks for showing the best of our valley to the world!

Don’t miss another epic winter, buy your Season Pass now.

Photo: Bram Rossman www.extremexposures.ca

I have accumulated a number of newsworthy tidbits from a number of recent OldTimer games that should be mentioned: A couple of prolific goal scorers have emerged this year and they are not the first names that come to mind when I think of goal-scoring, so these guys must be good.

First is Wallace Ross, who scored four goals in a single game a couple of weeks ago. I’m not even sure what Teresa is supposed to do about that. I think the last guy who got four goals in a game was single!

The other guy is a rookie, who probably just doesn’t know better, (he’s supposed to pass to the vets, not do all the scoring), but Stacy Szabo seems to have a natural instinct for directing the puck toward the net as he potted three in a single game recently, much to Tammy’s chagrin!

Have I mentioned this year already, that I think we need another rink?

In a recent game, the Huckleberry Hawks managed to have their second, three-man breakaway of the season.

On the first one, John Swallow forgot that the puck has to cross the blue line first; and on the second one, the threesome got confused and shot the puck into the corner instead of at the net, so they are still searching for their first breakaway shot on goal of the season! I’m glad I wasn’t part of either of those messes!

On December 19th our members will be voting for their new executive.

Panorama opens

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Christmas Gifts?

It’s easy as 1•2•3

1. Write your Christmas gift basket list.

2. Call Jayne with your order.

3. Enjoy your holidays!

www.itsawrapgiftbaskets.ca

342-3160

Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley Did you put in your request for a hamper by calling 342-6752 or 342-6789?

Did you donate a child’s angel gift at Dairy Queen or an adult or teen angel gift at Dave’s Book Bar? Did you phone in your hamper sponsorship to 342-6752 or email hghoff@telus.net?

Sponsors, please remember to drop your hamper off Wednesday, December 19th at the Invermere Community Hall between 8 a.m. and 12 noon.

Pick up hampers and gifts Wednesday, December 19th from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Make a Christmas Wish Come True!

Environmental Initiatives Program Pilots New Small Grants Stream Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Environmental Initiatives Program (EIP) is now accepting applications for community-initiated and supported environmental projects in the Basin. The EIP supports projects that address current and future impacts of human communities on local and regional aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Requests for up to $20,000 per project are invited.

New this year…CBT has added a small grants stream to the EIP – this means a shorter and simpler application form for requests under $5,000. The small grant application forms will be available January 30, 2008.

Please watch the CBT website for details.

Support during proposal development is available through The Land Conservancy and Columbia-Kootenay Fisheries Renewal Partnership. Contact the Golden CBT ofce for details at 1-800-505-8998 or 250-344-7065, or email golden@cbt.org.

Completed applications, for both the large and small grants, must be received no later than March 7, 2008 at 3:30 pm PST/4:30 pm MST. For a detailed program description, eligibility criteria, or an application guide and form, visit the CBT website at www.cbt.org or phone 1-800-505-8998.

1.800.505.8998

info@cbt.org

www.cbt.org

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

Getting into the spirit Denise Grocutt from Fairmont bought a snowman for her daughter Kyra from Kathie Pagnucco at the 14th original Christmas Craft Sale. The sale was held last Friday and Saturday at Invermere Community Hall, and was a fantastic success. A total of $1,500 was raised through admission proceeds, baking and a raffle, which will go to the Windermere Valley Child Care Society. Event organizer Carolyn Barzilay said: “We were down a few hundred people on Friday but I think that was due to the cold, although overall it was a great success.”

Christmas Bureau reminds people to purchase Angel Tree Gifts Submitted by the Christmas Bureau As the snow and Christmas lights on Main Street Invermere inspire festive shopping, the Christmas Bureau gives you the opportunity to buy something for somebody who wouldn’t otherwise receive a Christmas gift.

With the help of two of our many corporate partners, and generous shoppers like you, the Christmas Bureau arranges that families requesting hampers also receive gifts from anonymous donors on Christmas morning.

Angel Trees in the Dairy Queen and Dave’s Book Bar are decorated with tags that give the gender and age of a potential gift recipient and a suggestion for an appropriate gift.

This year, to eliminate work for the shops’ harried cashiers, we ask that you choose a tag, complete the bottom portion with your name and telephone number and place it in a box near the cash desk in the store.

Take the top portion of the tag with you.

After you’ve found a suitable gift, wrap it attractively, tape the top portion of the card to the gift and

return it to the store by Dec. 12th. Remember, in the interests of equality, all gifts should be in the $20 to $25 range.

Tags for children, infants up to 14-year-olds, are on the tree at Dairy Queen. Remember, parents, knowing what their children need, have made the gift suggestions. If the gift suggestion is pyjamas, and you would prefer to give a toy, enclose a small toy with the pyjamas, as long as you can keep within the $20 to $25 limit.

We all think, “Christmas is for children,” but adults and teens appreciate a treat, too. Although teens may be beyond wanting toys, they still appreciate a book, a board game or a CD. In needy families, parents sacrifice all year, denying themselves luxuries in order to buy their children school supplies, sports equipment, and new boots. Many community elders survive on modest pensions and, unless they have family nearby, might receive no other gift than yours. Don’t forget to check out the gift tags for seniors, adults and teens at Dave’s Book Bar. Be an Angel and bring joy to another Columbia Valley family.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

December 7, 2007

It’s 40 Below at

The Place/ Invermere Furniture Silent auction specials John Erb, who works for Health Canada in Invermere, takes a look at some of the prizes available at this year’s silent auction being held at the Invermere Public Library.

There is a range of different prizes, which have been generously donated by local business and customers. There’s heaps to choose from, including rounds of golf, clothing, books, watches, pen and pencil sets, and even a butter-keeper. Bidders have until December 15th at noon to name their price.

At The Library Descartes’ Secret Notebook: A True Tale of Mathematics, Mysticism, and the Quest to Understand the Universe by Amir D. Aczel Reviewed by Sheila Bonny Descartes’ Secret Notebook is an exploration of the mysterious life of Rene Descartes, the renowned 17th century French mathematician and philosopher.

Foremost among Descartes’ contributions to mathematics is the Cartesian coordinate system that permits us to describe numerically any point in space and is the foundation for global positioning systems, digital photography and data analysis. His rationalism, the explanation all human knowledge in terms of logical principles, is fundamental to modern philosophy and psychological theory.

After completing a Jesuit education, Descartes traveled throughout Europe, frequently as a volunteer soldier. He shared theories and corresponded with many notable scientists of his era, some of whom were suspected of belonging to the Rosicrucians, a secret society of scholars who challenged the Catholic Church’s opposition to new scientific ideas.

Aczel describes a strange secrecy in Descartes’ life. To study in peace, he secluded himself from his friends, re-directed his correspondence through an intermediary and traveled incognito. After his death, academics found a chest of papers he had withheld from publishing and a secret notebook written in code.

The reader is invited to ponder.

Was Descartes secretive to prevent academic plagiarism, to escape notice of the Inquisition, or to comply with membership in the Rosicrucians?

40% off

all instock items (excluding vacuums & vacuum accessories)

First come, First Served Don’t be disappointed!

MANY ITEMS BELOW COST! Now open late 6 nights a week!

Monday - Saturday 9 am - 9 pm Sunday 11 am - 4 pm 516 - 13th St.

342-8338 / 342-8366

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

When the going gets tough

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

342-3366 COLUMBIA VALLEY TRADING COMPANY

20% OFF

SUGGESTED RETAIL

Due to circumstances beyond our control EXCHANGE RATES between CANADA and the USA have changed dramatically, prompting many of our potential customers to shop in the USA. By offering…

20% OFF

we hope you will shop with us instead.

Our suppliers have offered us absolutely NO SUPPORT and NO DISCOUNTS. The cost of doing business has increased i.e. shipping, heating, accounting, insurance, electricity, wages and taxes, etc., etc. We strive to bring great products at better prices to this community. We hope this incentive will help you support us in these troubling times for Canadian retailers.

Thank you for your patronage

Chris, Sandy & family.

Students from David Thompson Secondary School’s Open Doors class tried their luck at archery last week, thanks to Norm Hendricks, president of the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club. Back row: Cole Gillham, John Waters, Alex Hochheiden, Justin Matthews, Chuck Nicholas, Colton Charette, Dylan Galbraith, Keifer Mickelson and Lucos Speta. Front: Norm Hendricks, Eli Puskoric, Elizabeth Nicholas, Open Doors coordinator Christine Shaw, Olivia Franklin and Caylie Johnson.

Open Doors students try archery

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Students from David Thompson Secondary School’s Open Doors class stepped up to the mark last week, when they pitted their wits against various targets in an archery session.

Norm Hendricks, president of the Lake Winderrmere District Rod and Gun Club, instructed the students and provided the equipment for the lesson.

“They did well. I taught them the basics of safety and shooting, then they started off shooting a distance of 14 yards, but I had to put the target back to 17 yards as they were

pretty good at hitting the targets,” he said.

Open Doors is an alternate route to graduation for high school students, and coordinator Christine Shaw tries to vary the physical education class as much as possible.

“I try to keep it varied and do activities which students might go on to experience in later life. I try to do things they could do after school, such as curling, archery and bowling.

It’s all about lifelong fitness, and creating an interest in something they might be into as they get older,” she said.

Open Doors pupil Chuck Nicholas said he was having lots of fun. “It’s great. I’ve never done it before and I think everyone’s really enjoying it,” he said.

• SALES • SERVICE • CHEMICALS • WATER MAINTENANCE VISITS Check out our showroom in the former Place Furniture location.

Phone: 250-342-3922

www.dynastyspas.com ecosmartspas.com 503B - 7th Avenue • Invermere All spas are U.S. Made – Take advantage of the strong Canadian Dollar!

His friend Cole Gillham added that he was having a great time. “I’ve done it before but I really enjoy it and I’d like to do it every day,” he said.

The Rod and Gun Club has been going since 1918 and has 230 members, but they’re always looking for new members and youth can start from ages eight to 18. Children younger than eight can also join if they have a parent who is a gun club member.

The Rod and Gun Club meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at Invermere Community Hall. In the summer they practise outdoors at Lake Lillian. Drop-ins are $2 and everyone is welcome. For information call 342-9033 or visit www.lwdrodgun.org.

Get Smart Over the Holidays!

SHOP DAVE’S

• Books • Cards • Ofce Supplies • Magazines • Lotto • Giftware

7th Ave. Invermere

342-6511

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

December 7, 2007

Search on for new gym coach

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Budding gymnasts in the valley are hoping for a new coach to teach them at their new centre in Radium, to open in January.

The 12-year-old Columbia Valley Gymnastics Association is all set to move to bigger and better premises at the old school in Radium after outgrowing their present location in Althamer.

But the one important thing they’re missing is a coach. Outgoing coach Shandrea O’Brien is leaving to open a florist’s shop at the former premises of Syndicate Board Shop.

So level one coach Michelle Hill is teaching all the classes from Monday to Friday on her own.

The Columbia Valley Gymnastics Association runs five different classes each week: parent and tot for 12-month-olds to 36-month- Left to right, back: Carli Maybuck, 9; Clarissa Hollowink, 9; and coach Miolds; Tumbling Tots for three to chelle Hill. Left to right, front: Tori Maybuck, 8, and Rachel Kanan, 8. five-year-olds; Kindergym for five to six-year-olds; Recgym for six to square foot of floor space and much in a gym association per capita in B.C. She added there are currently 16-year-olds; and advanced Rec, higher ceilings.

“Now we have the bigger 45 children on a waiting list when also for six to 16-year-olds.

“We have been so fortunate venue we’d like to be able to train the next session starts in Radium.

Michelle is a level one coach over the years as we’ve had a lot of the gymnasts for competitions but awesome coaches,” said club presi- this will be difficult without a new who is only available until March, as she will be returning to her fullcoach,” Cheryl said. dent Cheryl Maybuck The Columbia Valley Gymnas- time real estate position.

“At the moment, the coaches So any level two gym coaches, spend a lot of time moving mats tics Association has 110 gymnasts or coaches in training, who may around to create enough space for and eight board members.

Cheryl claims the club has one be able to help should contact the the kids. But the new premises will be much better as it has 2,400 of the largest numbers of gymnasts club at 342-3023.

Casa Blanca Restaurant

Wednesday Pizza Night: 2-4-1 pizza* Thursday Oriental Night Thai & more!

Friday All You Can Eat Pasta* Saturday All You Can Eat Pasta*

Sportsman’s Lounge Tuesday

15 cent Wing Night Live entertainment on occasion Wednesday Free Pool Thursday Jam Night Free tacos between 9-10pm* Friday Fish & Chips Saturday Hockey Night in Canada and /or live entertainment Pizza Night For more information Call 345.6346 www.fairmonthotsprings.com **Some restrictions apply

MAIN STREET INVERMERE (250) 342-6151

An Elegant Holiday Experience!

Best selection of Canadian Fine Craft in the Region.

Open until 8:00 p.m. every Friday before Christmas. www.eagleranchresort.com

Fish ‘N Chips Friday

1195

$

Panko Crusted Basa with Lemon Aioli & Frites $ 95

Sunday Breakfast Buffet

11

Available 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Clubhouse is open for the holidays.

Christmas party today!

Hours of Operation Monday - Saturday Sunday

11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Location: The Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch, 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail (From Hwy 93/95, turn at traffic lights. Entrance is on the right. From Invermere, turn left on Eagle Ranch Trail, off Athalmer Road)

Come to Village Arts on Saturday December 15th 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For a Custom Jewellery Design Event by Sandra of Blissbeads

www.villagearts.ca

Enter to WIN a pair of Blissbeads Earrings!

*Clubhouse closed at 5:00 pm on Friday, December 14th for scheduled function

Call Toll-free: 1-877-877-3889 • Local: 342-0562 • Sundays or after 6:00 p.m. 342-6560 • www.eagleranchresort.com

Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

It’s a girl!

Alexandra Gail Mitchell

Born November 3rd, 2007 at East Kootenay Regional Hospital to proud parents Todd and Brenda Mitchell of Invermere.

GOLDEN’S MÉTIS YOUTH CULTURAL AWARENESS INITIATIVE

invites Aboriginal Youth Ages 15-24 to participate in a 2 day Drum Making Workshop Dec 15-16 The drumbeat symbolizes the heartbeat of Mother Earth.

It plays a very important role in bringing people together.

Immerse yourself in a unique Aboriginal art and cultural experience by learning to make and play a traditional hand drum.

Date: (2 day workshop) December 15th - December 16th Time: Saturday Dec 15th 10:00-4:00 Sunday Dec 16th 9:00-3:00 Location: Town of Golden Meeting Room (downstairs in Town office) Cost: FREE. Registration is required.

For more information or to register call Kathleen (250) 344-8924.

This opportunity is made possible through the generosity of Dept. of Canadian Heritage and Métis Nation British Columbia.

Mountain Flowers Dining Room & Bear’s Paw Lounge

Thursday Villa night with 1/2 price appy’s Kids under nine eat for free* Friday Seafood Extravaganza Lobster, Crab, Mussels & much more!

Saturday Prime Rib Night Sunday Brunch and $2 swim Ribs Night

Tuscano’s Market

Tuscano’s Market now features a Wine and Tapas Bar every Friday and Saturday evening. Enjoy a traditional Spanish appetizer and taste test a variety of wines.

For more information Call 345.6015 www.fairmonthotsprings.com **Some restrictions apply Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

Santa on parade Top, the Cranbrook Girls’ Bugle Band march in this year’s Santa Claus Parade on Super Sunday in Invermere. Above, J. A. Laird students Natalie Gibbs, 10; Christina Schmitz, 10; Aaliyah Bone, 12; and Kate Gibbs, 12; watched the Cranbrook Girls Bugle Band during the Santa Claus parade on Super Sunday. Meanwhile, Santa Claus met some of the children he’ll be delivering presents to in a couple of weeks.

On the left, Torben Marsden introduces Santa to his children Adam, 5; and Annah, 8; who were very excited about Christmas. Adam said he was hoping Santa would bring him a toy train. Those who braved the snow enjoyed the parade before hitting the shops to snap up some bargains, as most stores had discounted items. It was a great chance to make a head start on Christmas shopping in plenty of time before the big day on December 25th.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

December 7, 2007

Super Sunday kicks off the shopping season The snow fell just in time to create a magical atmosphere for last weekend’s Super Sunday.

This annual event featured the Santa Claus parade, with a special appearance from the man in red, who waved to onlookers as his Old Red fire truck headed down Seventh Avenue.

The star attraction was the Cranbrook Girls Bugle Band, who had the crowd mesmerized with their baton twirling, drumming and cymbal smashing.

The Bighorns were also out in force, and joined the parade in a horse-drawn truck to wave to the

crowds. Unfortunately, The Pioneer truck had to pull out due to mechanical failure.

People of all ages were out in force to soak up the Christmas atmosphere and grab a few bargains during the shopping extravaganza. It was a great chance to make a head start on Christmas shopping, as most stores were offering discounted items.

Paul Christy, chairman of Invermere Business Committee and owner of Monkey’s Uncle toy store, said it really was a super day.

“There were lots of people out, although there

were fewer out than last year, which may have been weather-related. The snow came through just in time, so luckily I have some good connections to make it happen once again after Light Up,” he joked. “We had a lot of happy shoppers in the store, definitely a lot more than a normal Sunday.

Shelley Streicek, owner of Hippy Chic, said business was also busy down at Parkside Place.

“There was a great atmosphere in town. Shoppers really enjoyed the parade and seemed to be having lots of fun,” she said.

www.daziran.ca

342-8830

Your source for Naturopathic Medicine in the Columbia Valley is pleased to announce the arrival of:

Dr. Clare Craig, ND Naturopathic Physician Dr. Craig will be handling patient care during Dr. Geis’ maternity leave until June 2008 Located in The Radermacher Chiropractic and Integrative Health Clinic at 107, 901-7th Avenue.

For more information or to book and appointment with Dr. Clare Craig please call 342-8830 or visit our website at www.daziran.ca

I look forward to meeting you!!

Vision It says a lot about a government’s priorities when it pours an extra $400 million into convention centre overruns – but continues to shortchange our kids. That’s exactly what Gordon Campbell’s government is doing.

Consider what’s happening in BC schools: • there are thousands of BC middle and secondary school classes with over 30 students • there are thousands of classes with four or more students with special needs • there is a serious shortage of teacher-librarians and specialist teachers • the BC government is clawing back up to $50 million from BC’s schools All students lose when classes are too large and there isn’t enough support for students with special needs.

With a $4 billion surplus, why is Gordon Campbell’s government shortchanging our kids?

A message from BC teachers

bctf.ca

THE PIONEER WORKS HARDER! FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS, CALL 341-6299

To encourage & teach participants how to improve their quality of life through walking, running and other life sports.

Nordic Pole Walking Clinics and Running Clinics starting in January • New Facility • All levels welcome • Vancouver half and full-marathon clinic starts in January • Christmas gift baskets and certificates available • Get fit in a positive fun atmosphere • Certified coach Call Michelle Taylor at Columbia Valley Life Sports 342-8737 • brentmichelletaylor@telus.net Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

New safety record set Canfor-Radium Division Sawmill celebrated One Year Lost Time Accident Free on November 17th, 2007, which is a Division first. For a lumber manufacturer, this is a major milestone to achieve.

Canfor-Radium has developed an effective safety program in effort to ensure all employees return home to their families safely, each and every day. We’re proud of our achievement, and our employees!

Pictured here are the Radium S.T.A.R.S Safety Committee members, and Management.

COLUMBIA VALLE Y PIONEER

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING…

• Call our Ofce Manager, Michele at 341-6299 with your Visa or Mastercard number.

• Pay in person at our ofce with credit or debit card at 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere.

• If you have a Paypal Account, you may pay online. Check our website for details at… w w w. c o l u m b i a v a l l e y p i o n e e r. c o m

Photo submitted

WISH & WIN EVENT AT

•

Win up to $10,00o0ur

towards y or purchase in lease or w a new GM vehicle

5% ST G

on all new Email: chaletgm@shawlink.ca

Mini Awamum rd

$10

00

• No purchase necessary for a person to play • Only one game is allowed per person/business • Visit Chalet GM today to play • See your salesperson for further details

CHECK US OUT AT www.chaletgm.com KIMBERLEY 427-4895 • CRANBROOK 489-2525 OUT OF TOWN 1-800-388-1156 HOURS OF OPERATION: 8 am - 6 pm Monday - Friday • 8:30 am - 5 pm Saturday

1142 - 304th St., Kimberley, BC V1A 3E1

CHALET CHEV OLD LTD.

Your Wish & Win Headquarters • Your Wish & Win Headquarters • Your Wish & Win Headquarters

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

December 7, 2007

Invermere taking direction from survey you don’t get your survey filled out and returned, basically, we think you’re happy.”

Overall, 59 percent of the respondents said they Two out of three respondents to a recent survey of were satisfied with the quality of service they get.

Invermere residents said they get a fairly good to very Municipal services like fire suppression (78 percent), water supply (73 percent), sewer treatment and colgood value for their tax dollars.

District of Invermere Council and staff are cel- lection (70 percent), snow and ice removal from roads ebrating the results of the survey, which were mostly (84 percent), garbage collection (93 percent) and road sweeping (86 percent) repositive, and using the ceived high marks on satresults to direct its finanisfaction. However, only cial plan.

Respondents rate recreation 34 percent said they were “The report card, in centre more important than satisfied with enforcemy opinion, is looking ment of bylaws and only pretty good,” Invermere performing arts centre 34 percent said they were Director of Finance Karsatisfied with building en Coté commented after inspection. presenting the results to The perennial issue of road maintenance got split council. “I think we’re all pretty happy. I know I am.”

Although only 95 of the 1,800 questionnaires dis- marks with 52 percent reporting satisfaction and 46 tributed were returned, a response rate of only 5.2 per- percent not very or not at all satisfied.

While most municipal facilities got high marks cent, Invermere Mayor Mark Shmigelsky said that no of satisfaction—Community Hall (71 percent), Kinsresponse is being interpreted as a positive response.

“I was very pleased and surprised. Usually, a sur- men Beach (79 percent), the library (77 percent), vey allows the discontented to come forward in a Pynelogs (82 percent), Eddie Mountain Memorial strong way,” he said. “I think it’s important to note Arena (68 percent)—only 39 percent of respondents that 1,800 surveys went out and 100 came back. If said they were satisfied with the district’s pathways

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

(42 percent not satisfied). The Athalmer playground (32 percent), the Mount View Cemetery (35 percent), the Windermere Cemetery (22 percent) and the Invermere tennis courts (34 percent) all received low marks of satisfaction.

Given an imaginary pie of $100 of tax funds to allocate toward a new community facility, respondents gave the smallest slice ($18) to an Arts/Cultural Centre, which came in at a few dollars behind the category “Other,” (i.e., a youth centre or multi-purpose rooms for community groups).

Respondents said they would spend the biggest slice of the pie ($35) on a recreation centre, including a fitness centre and leisure pool, followed by a library ($26).

Taking into account the public’s comments, Director Coté reported, the district’s 2008-2012 financial plan has been amended to include the following: • Kinsmen Beach revitalization plan • Resurfacing of the Invermere tennis courts • More parking stalls downtown • Final engineering and landscaping plan for Pothole Park • The creation of a bike trail map The financial plan received its second and third reading and is awaiting final approval.

Your Local

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Professionals

INVERMERE 1022B-7th Ave.

Independently Owned and Operated Paul Glassford Representative

(250) 341-1395 pglassford@telus.net

Ofce: (250) 342-6505 Fax: (250) 342-9611

Invermere Office – 526B – 13th Street Fairmont Office – #4, Fairmont Village Mall Phone (250) 345-4000

INVERMERE

1022B-7th Ave.

Bernie Raven Representative

(250) 342-7415 braven@cyberlink.bc.ca

Independently Owned and Operated

It’s the Experience!

Ofce: (250) 342-6505 Fax: (250) 342-9611

Ed English

Jan Klimek

(250) 342-1195 janklimek@telus.net

Main Street, Invermere

(250) 342-1194 edenglish@telus.net

PAUL ROGGEMAN 341-5300

Fax (250) 345-4001 www.rockymtnrealty.com paul@rockymtnrealty.com

Dedicated to all your real estate needs.

(250) 342-6505 INVERMERE

www.ReMaxInvermere.com

Independently Owned and Operated

w w w. e d a n d j a n s l i s t i n g s. c o m

Mountain Creek Properties Ltd. Strata, Rental & Commercial Property Management

For professional management of your strata corporation or rental property, overseen by a CertiÀed Property Manager®, please contact Bill Weissig CPM®, CPRPM, CLO, SMA, CRES. Our property managers are licensed under the Real Estate Services Act of B.C. For more information regarding their extensive qualications and experience, please visit our web site at http://www.mountaincreek.ca.

Phone: 250-341-6003

Email: bweissig@mountaincreek.ca

RockiesWest Realty Ltd.

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED 230 Laurier Street Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Ron Maciborski SALES REPRESENTATIVE

(250) 342-5704 (Cell) (250) 342-5599 (Office) (250) 342-5559 (Fax) e-mail: ronmac@rockieswest.com

Daniel Zurgilgen MaxWell Realty Invermere 926-7th Avenue, Inveremere, BC

www.maxwelldaniel.com

Cell: (250) 342-1612 Office: (250) 341-6044 Fax: (250) 341-6046

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU NEW

Sewer/Drain Cleaning

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

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357

CLUB TOWING

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

Loretto Keenan MCPA, CBTBC chartered physiotherapist

Specializing in ‘One of a Kind’ ART YOU WEAR Located in INVERMERE, BC Across from the AIRPORT, next to Tex’s Coffee & BAVIN GLASS for store hours Phone: (250) 342-5043 or 342-5347

www.deannagauthier.com

1st Anniversary Specials • 3 rooms (500 sq. ft.) Reg. $145.00 Now $120.00 • Couch Reg. $89.00 Now $60.00 • Love Seat Reg. $69.00 Now $50.00 • Comfy Chair Reg. $49.00 Now $30.00 + GST December & January

Call NOW

See more online at www.heavenbest.ca

688-0123

by Leanne

For appointments call Loretto at 345-0094

• Manicures • Pedicures • Gel Nails

5020 Mountain View Place Fairmont, BC

By Appointment Only

Fairmont Sports Physiotherapy & Acupuncture Clinic

14A Wolfe Cr., RR#2 Invermere, B.C.

Located behind Tim Hor tons • Ph: 341-3314

Need Blinds?

Interior World

window fashions

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

Excellent Security Measure Makes it look like you’re home when you’re not!

Kirk & Karen Davis Invermere BC

0F%ULGH 5HDOW\ &HQWHU /WG

Lambert

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 • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

Lawn and Yard Maintenance Sunrise To Sunset Service

Valley Wide

Pine Ridge Cutters Wouldn’t it be nice to have a reliable contact person for your BC home? • • • • •

Home and property inspections Irrigation system start-up and blow-out, head replacement and timing Snow plowing driveway and walkways Mowing, pruning, planting, weeding and mulching Hauling.

(250) 341-1012

$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

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

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

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

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ESSO

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Truck Mounted System • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Dean Hubman

CertiďŹ ed Technician

342-3052

RR3, 4874 Ridge Cres.

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3

SCRUBS

Automotive Repairs

Executive Housekeeping Service

GAS • PROPANE • DIESEL

Professional Service Now Taking New Clients

7 days a week

Freight & Passenger Depot

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

(250) 347-9726

Call today for your FREE Cleaning Consultation References Available

Elin (250) 342-0050 or John (250) 342-5832 email: scrubgrp@gmail.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

December 7, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd. HEAT PUMPS, DUCT WORK & FURNACES

Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Alterations Repair • Bachelor Service

Sales and Service

Call today 342.1167

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

Great Selection of:

•Wood Blinds•Sunscreens •Woven Woods•Pleated Shades•Roller Shades and more!

For all your interior decorating needs.

#1 Kootenay Block Main St., Radium BC

347-7734

• POOLS • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • FIREPLACES • BBQ·S • HEATING • VENTILATION • AIR CONDITIONING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

COLUMBIA VALLEY Complete Automotive Repairs

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

Structural Integration Deep Tissue Bodywork Movement Education – Dialogue

H E L L E R W O RK Jean-Luc Cortat

TAXI

250-342-5262 Serving Golden to Cranbrook, Banff and Lake Louise

The only place t’s w he re i 30 minute circuit training for women only.

cool to be a loser!

Now Open 24/7 What are you weighting for?

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

Hours:

Sunday, 12 noon – 10 p.m.

Monday – Wednesday, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Thursday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 a.m.

Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 a.m.

Women’sPACE

Renaissance Wellness Centre Box 185 / 505 – 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 342-2535

Verna Jones • pacegal@ telus.net • Tel: 342-6010

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

Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Bob Mashford, President Phone: (250) 341-7188 or (403) 923-2427 Fax: (403) 720-5789

342-6612

mrbibsinsulating@hotmail.com

Come in and browse our giftware

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

WINDERMERE 342-6805

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

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

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

30 โ ข The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

Whopping donation!

Barry Brown-John, chair of the provincial Real Estate Foundation, presents a cheque for $78,600 to Nancy Newhouse, left, program manager of the East Kootenay Conservation Program; and Emi Cronin of the Nature Conservancy of Canada. The funding will support the porogramโ s work over the next two years and assist with the Nature Conservancy of Canadaโ s project to characterize stakeholder groups on conservation properties.

HERE TO SERVE YOU Hi - Heat

Vivid Contracting Invermere, BC

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

Construction Clean-up โ ข General Labour

Kim Baker โ ข Cell: 688-8355 โ ข Work 342-0637 โ ข Email kbbaker@hotmail.com

4JODF

%POOB )B[FMBBS

1)0/& '"9

50-- '3&& )&"5

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

INVERMERE GLASS LTD.

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

VJ (Butch) Bishop Owner/Operator

4846 Holland Creek Ridge Rd. Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

HEAD OFFICE

INVERMERE

Phone: (250) 342-9866 Fax: (250) 342-9869 www.avionconstruction.com

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

Contact: Silver Creek Properties Inc. Phone: 688-4848

Telephone: 342-3659

โ ข Topsoil โ ข Sand โ ข Gravel

CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORS

DESIGN/BUILD CUSTOM HOMES โ ข MULTI-FAMILY & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

COMMERCIAL SNOWPLOWING AND SANDING

โ ขAuto โ ข Home โ ข Commercial โ ข Mirrors โ ข Shower Doors โ ข 27 years glass experience Jeff Watson

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"-&4สด)*)&"5*/46-"5*/( $0.

Avion

Construction Ltd.

Bus: (250) 342-6336 Fax: (250) 342-3578 Email: isr@telus.net Website: www.is-r.ca 403 - 7th Avenue Invermere, BC

Specializing in Custom Drapery, Blinds, Shutters & Flooring Residential & Commercial Interiors Brenda E. Werbisky, C.I.D., Interior Designer For appointment call

(403) 861-8782

brenda@soledecornmore.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

December 7, 2007

Public Information

914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Ph: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934 • E-mail: info@invermere.net

TID BITS:

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Curbside Recycling Implementation

• Holiday Schedule for GARBAGE COLLECTION

Please be advised that regularly scheduled garbage collection, within the District of Invermere, for Tuesday, December 25th, 2007 has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 27th, 2007 and garbage collection for Tuesday, January 1st, 2008 has been rescheduled to Thursday, January 3rd, 2008.

• Cancellation of December 25th, 2007 Regular Meeting of Council

The District of Invermere invites written proposals from qualified firms for the implementation of a curbside recycling program for approximately 1400 solid waste clients within the District of Invermere. This implementation involves development and delivery of a curbside recycling public education program with client service and response in the initial implementation phase of the program.

• Holiday Schedule for Municipal Office

It is expected that this implementation will begin with communication development in December of 2007. Curbside recycling pick up will begin April 1, 2008.

The regularly scheduled Meeting of Council for Tuesday, December 25th, 2007 has been cancelled.

The Municipal Office will be closed for the Holidays from Monday, December 24th to Friday, December 28th, 2007 and Tuesday, January 1st, 2008. The office will be open on Monday, December 31st, 2007

• 2008 Regular Meeting of Council Schedule

The District of Invermere Council meets regularly throughout the year on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Office (914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere).

January 8th & 23rd February 12th & 26th June 10th & 24th July 8th & 22nd November 12th & 25th December 9th & 23rd

March 11th & 25th August 12th & 26th

April 8th & 22nd September 9th & 23rd

May 13th & 27th October 14th & 28th

November Council Meeting Highlights:

Housing Authority:

The creation of the “Invermere Housing Corporation” is one step closer. The Corporate Papers have been forwarded to the Inspector of Municipalities for approval. Once approved the District can then appoint an interim Board of Directors to assist in the creation and establishment of the company.

Development Cost Charge Bylaw (DCC)

The District has submitted the Development Cost Charge Bylaw to the Inspector of Municipalities for approval. In response to the increased level of development, its impacts to infrastructure and the incremental increases in construction costs, the bylaw has been amended to include the costs associated with the borrowing and increased construction cost of the water transmission and reservoir project. This Bylaw is consistent with Council’s position that the development industry pay for the improvements required to accommodate future growth

Contractors are invited to submit a short proposal outlining: • • • • • • •

Their general approach to implementation of a curbside recycling program for the District of Invermere; An approximate schedule of deliverables within the program including anticipated hours and relative costs associated with each; Provide a summary of your firm’s qualifications to perform the services requested; ensure to advise the number of years your company or sole proprietorship has been in business; Provide details as to the amount of general liability and professional liability insurance your firm carries; Provide the names of three references, including their telephone numbers; Detail the relevant experience of the individual(s) who would be performing the services requested; A contract price not exceeding $15,000 that will be flexible to allow for Change Orders to effect increases or decreases in level of service provided to fit the program within budget and perceived focus.

In addition to the information being requested in this Request for Proposals contractors can provide the District of Invermere with any other information considered relevant and that the District of Invermere should be aware of before making its decision on the contractor.

The District of Invermere, as the result of this Request for Proposals, has no obligation to award a contract and are not bound to select the lowest priced proposal and reserve the right to reject any and all proposals. In no event will the District of Invermere be responsible for the costs of preparation or submission of any proposal.

Questions on this Request for Proposal may be directed to Chris Prosser, Chief Administrative Officer, District of Invermere, phone 250-3429281. Proposals should be delivered to 914 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0. Deadline for submission is 4:00 pm MST, December 7, 2007

SNOW REMOVAL

Housing Needs Assessment

The Housing Needs Assessment was received in Draft form at the November 27th, 2007 Council Meeting. Council will formally adopted it at the December 11th, 2007 Council Meeting.

District of Invermere bylaw number 306 “Regulation of traffic within the Village of Invermere” which states in Article VII 9:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Invermere Public Library

“It shall be unlawful for any person to permit any accumulation of snow or ice to remain upon any cement sidewalk in front or abutting any premises owned or occupied by him after noon in any day except Sunday in the village as described by by-law from time to time in that behalf passed by the Council of the Village”.

Here’s how you can help...

•

Are you an avid reader? Are you excited about the library’s expansion?

Would you like to be a part of your library’s future?

“The Invermere Public Library is searching for an enthusiastic individual resident to fill a volunteer Trustee position. The Position will be for a length of 2 years.”

To be considered for a position, the applicant must be a resident or elector of the District of Invermere and cannot be an employee of the District of Invermere or Library Board. Those holding positions at the time of advertisement are welcome to reapply for an additional term.

• • • •

Interested persons are requested to submit letters of application and brief resumes including reasons for interest and related experience to:

•

Mayor and Council, District Of Invermere P.O. Box 339, 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, B.C., V0A1K0 or to cgoodey@invermere.net

• •

Be a good neighbour. Clear snow and ice from sidewalks as soon as possible after a snowfall to ensure that they are safe for all residents. Lend a hand to those who may not be physically able to shovel.

Do not park on the street during a snowstorm of while snow clearing operations are underway. Parked cars make plowing difficult, and sometimes impossible. With your help, winter maintenance crews can plow snow faster and more efficiently and you will reduce the chances of having to dig your car out of a snow drift.

Please make sure that your car is parked within your driveway. Please do not let it extend onto the street or sidewalk.

Keep children safe - don’t let them play in snow piles, or build snow forts in the snow banks at the side of the road.

Snow plows have no place to push the snow except to the curb or shoulder of the road. Sometimes this happens just after you have finished shovelling. We appreciate this can be frustrating; however we ask your cooperation in clearing this snow without placing it on the roadway. If you hire a private contractor to clear your driveway, make sure the contractor does not push snow into the travelled portion of the roadway, or fill in sidewalks.

Pile snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the road) if possible when shovelling. This helps reduce the amount of snow created by the snowplow at the end of your driveway.

Remove snow from around fire hydrants on or near your property to enable quick access by emergency personnel if the need arises.

Do not place your garbage cans on top of snow banks. If possible place them on your driveway near the edge of the road.

The District thanks you for your co-operation!

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. Friday, December 7th, 2007

NOTICE OF OFFICE CLOSURE

The Municipal Office will be closed for the Holidays from Monday, December 24th to Friday, December 28th, 2007 and Tuesday, January 1st, 2008. The office will be open on Monday, December 31st, 2007

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS Call: 341-6299

they work

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

OUR VALLEY LOCATIONS Invermere: A Touch of Dutch Flower & Gift Shop Angus McToogle’s A&W Restaurant AG Foods Anglz Hair Salon Autowyze Services Bavin Glassworks Back Door Wine Cellar Bliss Hair & Esthetics Blue Dog Café Bruce McLaughlin Financial Chisel Peak Medical Centre College of the Rockies Columbia Garden Village Columbia Valley Employment Centre Columbia Valley Trading Company Columbia Valley Visitor Centre Dairy Queen Dave’s Book Bar Details by JoAnne DTSS East Kootenay Realty Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Essentials Department Store Fitz’s Flooring Gerry’s Gelati Gone Hollywood Grant’s Foods Great Canadian Dollar Store Greyhound Bus Depot

O’Sullivan Dental Clinic Harrison McKay Communications High Country Properties Home Hardware Hubbard & Blakley Law Office Huckleberry’s Restaurant Inside Edge Sports Interior World Invermere and District Hospital Invermere Barber Invermere Dry Cleaners Invermere Family Chiropractic Invermere Inn (every room) Invermere Medical Clinic Invermere Physiotherapists Invermere Public Library Konig Meats Lake Auto Services Lakeside Pub Lambert-Kipp Pharmacy Majestic U-Brew Maria Dibb Medical Clinic Mark Moneo, Optometrist Meridian Mortgage Monkey’s Uncle Mountain View Lodge Maxwell Realty Mustard Seed Oasis Gifts Pamper Yourself Spa Penner’s Shoes Pharmasave Pieces From the Past Quality Bakery Ray Ferguson Realty

RCMP Re/Max Rob’s Bicycle Works Rocky Mountain Realty Royal Lepage Selkirk TV - The Source Sobeys Station Pub Subway Sunsations Spa Super 8 Motel Superior Propane Syndicate Board Shop Tex’s Coffee Works The Back Door Wine Cellar The Book Cellar The Place Furniture Store Tiffany’s Thredz Tim Horton’s Toby Theatre Two-For-One Pizza Valley Hair Styling Warwick Interiors

Windermere: Columbia Lake Band Copper Point Golf Course Skookum Inn Valley Alley Bowling Centre White House Pub Windermere Family Pantry Windermere Market Foods Windermere Valley Golf

Fairmont Hot Springs: Canyon Meadows Bigway Foods Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Fairmont Lodge Fairmont Recreation Centre Farside Pub Jeffers Esso Mountainside Rec Centre Race Trac Gas Riverside Golf Riverside Recreation Centre Rocky Mountain Realty Smoking Waters Coffee

Canal Flats: Canal Flats Family Pantry Dot’s Diner Gas Plus Liquor Store Home Hardware Sunflower Café

Radium Hot Springs: Fire Valley Back Country Jacks Bighorn Meadows Canyon Campground Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery Lambert Insurance Meet on Higher Ground Coffee Mountainside Market Prestige Inn Radium Hot Springs Pool Radium Husky Radium Liquor Store Radium Petro Canada Radium Hot Springs Esso Red Valley Resort Park Motel Wild Rose 2-4-1 Pizza

North of Radium: Brisco General Store Edgewater Post Office Pip’s Country Store Spillimacheen Post Office

Kimberley Black Bear Books & Video (Platzl) Kimberley Visitor Centre Mary’s Kitchen Restaurant

Cranbrook: Pages Emporium Lotus Books

8000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY VERIFIED BY THE SUN MEDIA

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

December 7, 2007

OUR CALGARY LOCATIONS Alexander Centre

Eau Claire Market Info

Nellies in the Loop

Acadia Rec Centre

922 - 9th Ave. S.E.

200 Barclay Parade S.W.

2015 - 33rd Ave S.W.

240 - 90 Ave. S. E.

235, 401-9 Ave. S.W.

Alberta Theatre Projects

Eighth and Eighth Café

Oh Canada

Planet Organic

2nd Flr, 220-9th Ave S.E.

#102, 855 - 8th Ave S.W.

815 - 7th Ave S.W.

100 - 10233 Elbow Drive S.W.

Bank of Montreal

Artspace

Encana Place

Pharaoh’s 17

2nd Flr, 1235 - 26th Ave S.E.

Main Flr, 150 - 9th Ave S.W.

2008-33rd Ave S.W.

Lake Bonavista Community Centre 1401 Acadia Drive S.E.

Big 4 Casino

Extreme Bean

Rainbow Pride

Stampede Park

3303 - 3rd Ave N.W.

1230A - 17th Ave S.W.

Oakridge Foods 2515 - 90 Ave. S.W.

Bank of Montreal

225 Shawville Blvd. S.W.

Bank of Montreal Southcentre Mall

First Calgary 70 Shawville Blvd.

Safeway

Blue River Bistro

Fairs Fair

Skaters Sport Shop

227-11th Ave S.W.

#4, 7400 MacLeod Trail S.E.

#40, 6130 - 1A St. S.W.

Crossroads Market

Shawville Blvd.

1235 - 26 Ave. S.E.

Co-op

Bow Valley College

Fairs Fair

The Grind

1st Flr, 332- 6th Ave S.E.

1430, 1609 - 14th St. S.W.

908-8th Ave S.W.

Cuppa Gogo

Shawville Blvd.

By The Cup

Family Foods

The Other Place

1441 - 17 Ave. S.W.

Treasury Branch

2nd Flr, 736 - 8th Ave S.W.

817 - 19th St. N.E.

840-6th Ave S.W.

Sunterra Markets

303 Shawville Blvd.

Café 411

Fitness on 5th YWCA

Video World

1851 Scirocco Drive S.W.

Treasury Branch

320 - 5th Ave S.E.

Lwr Level, 1010-6th Ave S.W.

Coco Brooks

8 Ave. & 2 St. S.W.

Calgary International Hostel 520-7th Ave S.E.

Fortune Car Wash

VRRI Recreation Centre

640 - 42 Ave. S.E.

Royal Lepage Benchmark

4715 MacLeod Trail S.W.

3304-33rd St. N.W.

Bridgeland Esso

430 - 7220 Fisher St. S.E.

Calgary Multi-Cultural Centre 835- 8th Ave S.W.

Francesco’s Italian Food /Deli

Wayne’s Bagels

4 Edmonton Trail N.E.

Glenmore Prof. Bldg.

3413 - 26th Ave S.W.

2nd Flr, 777- 8th Ave S.W.

HSBC Bank

1600 - 90 Ave. S.W.

Campers Village

Gallery Café

Wrapture

95 Crowfoot Crescent N.W.

# 1 Convenience

7208 MacLeod Trail South

608 -7th St. S.W.

1208-17th Ave S.W.

Rona

1015 Oakfield Drive S.W.

Cappuccino Company

Green Bean Catering

You & I Coffee

90 Crowfoot Way N.W.

# 1 Convenience

924A - 7th Ave S.W.

601 - 1st St. S.W.

2nd Flr, 400-4th Ave S.W.

Bow River Medical

924 Edmonton Trail N.E.

Casablanca Video

Greyhound Courier

You & I Coffee

4411 - 16 Ave. N.W.

Safeway

2100 - 4th St. S.W.

833 Greyhound Way S.W.

Mn Flr, 700-4th Ave S.W.

Buy Low Foods

1818 Centre St. N.

Casablanca Video

Hard Disk Café

Calgary Sun Lobby

200 - 52 St. N.E.

Co-op

2101 - 33rd Ave S.W.

117, 638 -11th Ave S.W.

2615- 12th Street N.E.

Sazbimandi Foods

Richmond Road S.W.

Cedars Deli/Café

Harry Hays Building

Wrapture

5401 Temple Drive N.E.

Bank of Montreal

3103 Edmonton Trail N.E.

220- 4th Ave S.E.

1208-17th Ave. S.W.

Lucky’s Foods

6100 MacLeod Trail

City Hall

Holy Cross Campus

Big Rock Brewery

8 Ave. and 44 St. S.E.

Tourism Calgary

800 MacLeod Trail S.E.

2204-2nd St. S.W.

5555 - 76 Ave. S.E.

First Calgary

Calgary Tower

Coco Brooks

Lambada Investment

Haworth

455 - 36 St. N.E.

CIBC Elveden Bldg.

2020 - 32nd Ave N.E.

1423 Centre St. N.W.

10 Smed Lane S.E.

Bank of Montreal

717 - 7 Ave.

Danish Canadian Club

London House

Café O Lei

2555 - 32 St. N.E.

International News

727 - 11th Ave S.W.

5th Flr, 505 - 4th Ave S.W.

3608 - 17 Ave. S.E.

Bank of Montreal

205, 401 - 9 Ave. S.W.

Decidedly Jazz

Long & MacWade

Craving Bagels

5249 Richmond Road S.W.

Peter Pan

1512 - 4th St. S.W.

105 - 58th Ave S.W.

Foothills Hospital, North Tower

Devonian Gardens/TD Square 4th Floor - TD Square

Mediterranean Grill

Planet 101

#108, 6008 MacLeod Trail S.W.

83 Bowridge Drive N.W.

Divine Decadence

The Mongolie Grill

Lower level, 720 -17th Ave S.W.

1108-4th St. S.W.

Dome Sports Pub

My Sub

5703 - 3rd St. S.W.

#100, 744-4th Ave S.W.

#102, 1015 - 4th St. S.W.

13 Ave. & 2 St. N.W.

2000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED IN CALGARY VERIFIED BY SUN MEDIA

34 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Have A Real Tree Christmas!

Doreen’s Avon Open House Noon – 8:00 pm Nov. 23 & 24 Dec. 7 & 8 4836 Stanley St. Radium

MEMORIAM In Memory of Rob Daniel 1965-2004 Rob, its now 3 years since you left to journey on. Our lives are filled with sadness and tears remembering how you made our lives so full and happy. We know you’re near. Missing you always. Love your daughter Taya, Mom & Dad, brothers and sisters.

THANK YOU To all my friends and family.

Thank you for all your good wishes and many kindnesses shown to me during my recent illness. Thank you for the many cards, gorgeous flowers and the wonderful baking.

Your thoughtfulness has been overwhelming.

Phyl Luyendyk

GARAGE SALE Indoor garage sale. Furniture, misc., X-BOX, NGC, PS2, PC games. Sat, Dec. 8th . Carriage Court #8, 10th Ave. Call Benita 342-7077, 270-0055.

NOTICE

SUITE FOR RENT

CONDO FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT

Vehicle to be sold by D. Clowers dba Club Towing. Location of sale: 455 – Borden Street, Athalmer, B.C. (Storage Compound). Date of sale: December 21st, 2007.

Time of sale: 5:00 pm. Vehicle to be sold under the Warehouse Lien Act for Towing & Storage costs owed to D. Clowers dba Club Towing. Amount of Debt: $1,435.24. Vehicle is a 1990 Red Mazda Miata 2 door, Vin # JM1NA3527L0157706. B.C. Registration No. 4962262.

Monthly or weekly units available with or without kitchens for working couples or individuals Call Motel Bavaria in Radium, 347-9915.

Canal Flats Brand new condo in Jade Landing. Kitchen, nook, and living room, deck, 2 bdrms & bath upstairs, unfinished basement. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave. N/S, N/P, prefer mature individuals.

Rent is $1000/month plus utilities and damage deposit of $1000. Call owner at 1-403251-5996.

FOR RENT

Trailers for rent in Canal Flats.

2 bdrm available Dec. 15th , $500/month. 3 bdrm available immediately, $550/month. No dogs please, call Vic, 349-5264.

STORAGE

Large furnished 2 bdrm, N/S, NP, references, newly remodeled, available immediately. Call for viewing, 347-6367.

NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various size available.

Now with climate controlled units.

Call 342-3637

Invermere, fully furnished 1 bdrm suite, suitable for single person, N/S, N/P, no parties. $600.00/month, all utilities included, available Jan.1st, 3428621.

HOUSE FOR RENT 3 bdrm, 2 baths, house for rent in Pineridge Estates. Close to all schools, view of lake and mountains, $1600.00/month plus utilities. Prefer family, N/S, N/P, available Nov. 15, 2007. Call 780-406-6898, fax requests to 780-406-6897.

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE Retail/Office/Storage 503 7th Ave. Only one spot left!

2000 sq. ft., $12.00/sq. ft. triple net. Call 342-0603 or 341-5845.

Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

This 1 bedroom fully furnished condo located in the luxurious Sable Ridge complex comes complete with king sized bed, Penthouse furnishings, and everything you will need to make this retreat like condo home. This is the largest one bedroom condo in the complex which features a spacious living and dining room, large deck overlooking the pool, 2 hot tubs, and full vistas of the Rockies. All this plus heatedundergroundparking, ensuite laundry, water, heat, and electricity are included.

Make this award winning complex home at only $1550 per month. For more information please phone 403-861-5656.

WANTED TO RENT

WANTED Wanted: Used Ping Pong Table, call 342-3129.

2 roommates wanted for quiet Invermere location from Dec 1st to April 30th . N/S, N/P, close to all amenities, $550.00/month.

Call 688-8294.

SHARED ACCOMMADATION Bdrm for rent in new 3 bdrm house. Shared laundry. Hydro, cable, wireless internet included. $500/month, 341-1552.

NOTICE

SUITE FOR RENT

To the lady whose dog was in a dog fight across from the Saan store on Nov. 28th . Please call 341-5996.

CONTRACTORS: Self contained cabins by the week or month.

(250) 345-6365 Fairmont Bungalows.

LOOKING FOR A LONG-TERM RENTER? Interior Health, Invermere Health Service Area is looking for a 2 bedroom apartment in Invermere for staff accommodation. The rental period would be for a minimum of one year starting early in 2008. We would prefer a furnished unit, utilities included that is in close proximity to the hospital.

We invite you to submit a letter of interest detailing terms and a rental price. Submissions will be accepted until December 31, 2007.

Invermere & District Hospital

Valley’s Edge Resort in Edgewater Only minutes from Radium Hot Springs, Seasonal Rental, Furnished, References required, No pets, No smoking. $1,100/month plus utilities.

Luxurious living at the Riverside Golfcourse in Fairmont Hot Springs 3 bdrm., furnished, seasonal, no pets, no smoking: $1,800/month plus utilities.

Call Eric Redeker Rocky Mountain Realty • 342-5914 www.ericredeker.com

2 bdrm, 1.5 bath townhouse in Blackforest Village. 6 appliances plus a/c and central vac. N/S, N/P, no partiers, Available Dec. 15 or Jan. 1. $1225 plus utilities and $600 security deposit, 3420783.

Invermere: New 2 bdrm, 2 ½ bath house with yard. Granite, stainless steel appliances, A/C, gas fireplace, air purifier, W/D, garage, N/S, N/P, mature couple only. $1,400/month plus DD and util. Avail. Feb. 1/08. References required, 1 year lease, call 403274-0106.

HOUSE FOR SALE Mobile Home for Sale in Edgewater. Large lot, 2 decks, close to school, $265,000.00, 780-728-0121.

MISC. FOR SALE Hay for sale, round bales. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 342-0617.

Support “Rockies” Hockey. Pine, Fir & Poplar – dry & split order 342-6908.

Bag 5001, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone: 342-2315 • Fax: 342-2319 E-mail: kerry.colonna@interiorhealth.ca

Room to grow.

Used hot tub for sale $2,500.00.

Call 341-7665 or 341-7727.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

December 7, 2007

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS MISC. FOR SALE

VEHICLE FOR SALE

Top soil, unscreened, call, 3420617.

Cargo trailer, 4’x4’x8’, 14” tires, roof rack, good shape, $800.

341-7257/chrishamp@shaw.ca Have A Real Tree Christmas!

2002 Jeep Liberty

Queen sized box spring and mattress, like new, $150.00, 345-4575.

Limited Edition V6, fully loaded, 4x4, 85,000 kms

3 sets of scaffolds, including legs and platforms, 342-8848.

250-432-5211

Cattle guard, heavy duty, 16’x 8’, $1,800.00, call 342-0617.

WANTED: 2003-4-5 Chev or GMC extended cab step side. Call Doug at 780-983-8764.

16 cubic feet standup freezer, 8 years old, $200.00, 342-3826.

SNOWMOBILES FOR SALE 2005 Polaris RMK 800, brand new rebuilt motor, bumper to bumper warranty valid until February 24, 2008. Low mileage, all paperwork avail. $8,500.00 OBO, 342-1527.

2006 Summit X 151 track, electric start, cover, less than 800 miles. Asking $9,800.00, 250-347-2250.

VEHICLE FOR SALE

$10,000,000 in vehicle inventory.

Go to

www.cranbrookdodge.com

to view complete inventory.

$16,500

1996 GMC Sierra Z71 off road 4x4 extended cab with 3rd door, fully loaded, matching canopy, 226,000 km, excellent condition, very well maintained, $8,900.00, 342-6573.

1997 Ford Explorer XL, auto, cruise, A/C, AWD, dealer maintained, 200,000 kms, $7,500.00. Call 341-5912.

2002 4x4 Jimmy, excellent condition, 116,000 kms, $12,000.00, 347-6881.

2002 SAAB 9.5 Aero., 260hp, 5 speed, rocket stability & traction control, 17” alloy wheels, heated leather and mirrors, memory 9 speaker Harmon Kardon sound, Onstar, Zone climate control, power moon roof, dealer tuned, new brakes, CV joints and springs, mechanically perfect, 342-1354.

SERVICES

TOTAL HEATING SYSTEMS Heat Pumps Furnaces Duct work 342-1167

SERVICES

CAREERS

Phil’s Carpentry – Everything from roofs to decks, completion of basement and bathrooms.

Phone 341-8033 cell or 3428474 home. Not on valley time.

Derkson Plumbing & Heating requires a journeyman plumber, for The Resort @ Copper Point immediately. Experience in new housing and condo work, call Steve, 250-342-1449, or email resume to ssousa@ derksengroup.com

BUSINESS FOR SALE This is a great opportunity to own your own business. Anglz Hair and Tanning Studio is For Sale. Anglz is a well established Salon for 10 years. It’s a busy Salon with high traffic, full retail and full clientele. It has 4 stations, a tanning room, manicure/massage room, laundry/bathroom and large seating area. It has a total of 1100 square feet of space. If you think this is for you act now before it’s too late. Call Maria 250-342-3227.

CAREERS Residential Care Worker.

Temporary, full time position.

RCA or PCA or HSW or equivalent.

Union membership, HEU. See posting, Mt. Nelson Place.

Manager: Donna Jefferson 3423699.

Dining room servers and kitchen help required. Competitive wages and benefits. Great benefit package and work schedule. Call 489.0667.

SONSHINE CHILDREN’S CENTRE is looking for a Casual Employee with their Early Childhood Education (ECE) Degree. Please call 342-9535 Store Clerks needed. Must be enthusiastic and enjoy people. $13/hour, store discounts and advancement opportunities.

Apply in person to Invermere Petro-Canada.

Carpenters & Labourers required full time. Benefits and competitive wages. Reply by phone to Richard at Ski Home, 342-2555.

Valley Hawk Security is seeking full-time and part-time security guards. Night/day shifts in Invermere and Panorama area.

Call 250-688-4295 or email resume to valleyhawksecurity@ shaw.ca.

Full–time hair stylist wanted for Anglz Hair Studio. Call Maria, 342-3227.

FIREPLACE INSTALLER, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN Required by a large established local business. A full time position is available for a responsible, self-motivated individual with a professional appearance. A suitable candidate should have knowledge of B.C. Installation Codes as well as service and maintenance of fireplaces, however training may be provided to the right applicant. Must have a valid BC Driver’s License.

Please fax resume with references to: Diamond Heating and Spas FAX: 342-7103 Mail to: Box 117, Windermere, BC V0B 2L0 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com

Do you want to grow? Both personally and professionally?

Come to Invermere, BC and join our amazing team.

Just because we are small, it doesn’t mean we think small.

Invermere, BC – the place with room to grow!

VACANCIES FOR ALL HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS RNs, Support Services, Lab Techs, LPNs, Care Aids and Clerical positions INVERMERE & DISTRICT HOSPITAL INVERMERE, BC Full-time, part-time & casual positions We invite you to phone or apply online at www.roomtogrowbc.ca or submit a detailed resume, in confidence to: Human Resources Recruitment Services 1212 Second St. N. Cranbrook, BC V1C 4T6 Phone: 250-420-2442 Fax: 250-420-2425 E-mail: debbie.mandryk@interiorhealth.ca

Trims and Treasures Esthetics Studio Is looking to expand its already amazing team of professionals!

We are looking for an energetic, self motivated Stylist to start immediately. Health benefits available. Stop by and ask for France or email resume to info@ trimsandtreasures.ca

New position available

SONSHINE CHILDREN’S CENTRE is looking for a “Responsible Adult” for Out-of-school programming.

Please contact 342-9535

Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce

Room to grow.

For the right person in the beautiful Village of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. The Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is looking for a dynamic, organized individual to administer and implement the Radium Hot Springs tourism marketing plan in conjunction with the Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce.

For job description and more information, please contact the Manager of the Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce by mail, email or fax. No phone calls please.

Deadline for applications is December 15, 2007 at 5 pm.

P.O. Box 225, 7556 Main Street East Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia, V0A 1M0 E-mail: info@RadiumHotSprings.com Fax: 250-347-9127

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS Grizzly Mountain Grill

Submitted

in Radium

Requires Experienced Cooks and Servers Call 342-1666 Fax: 341-3453

or send resume to: PO Box 1079, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Is now accepting applications for the position of:

LIFT OPERATORS – FULL TIME The successful candidate will be mature with excellent communication skills, with good customer service experience. Training will be provided.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers a competitive salary and benefit package with access to all Resort amenities. Staff accommodations are available.

Interested applicants please forward their resume with references before December 10, 2007 to the attention of: Human Resources Fax: 250-345-6616 or email to: hr@fhsr.com

NATURAL SPRINGS SPA Is now accepting applications for the position of:

ESTHETICIANS Seasonal and Full-time positions available for qualified candidates with a passion for client service excellence.

The successful candidates will possess the relevant certification for facials, manicures and pedicures. Preference will be give to those with esthetics experience however newly certified applicants may apply. Our Estheticians will also have reception duties and must be able to multi task in a busy environment. Applicants must have excellent written and communication skills. Professionalism and good grooming are a must. Various shifts and weekends would be required. Hiring both immediately, and for our spring season (April).

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Ltd. offers a competitive salary and benefit package with access to all Resort amenities.

Please visit our website for more information on the Resort’s facilities at: www.fairmonthotsprings.com Interested applicants please send resume with references to the attention of: David Sheedy – Human Resources Manager Fax: 250-345-6616 or Email: hr@fhsr.com While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted personally.

COLUMBIA VALLE Y PIONEER

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING…

• Call our Ofce Manager, Michele at 341-6299 with your Visa or Mastercard number.

• Pay in person at our ofce with credit or debit card at 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere.

• If you have a Paypal Account, you may pay online. Check our website for details at… w w w. c o l u m b i a v a l l e y p i o n e e r. c o m

O B J E C T I V E , C R E AT I V E , N E W S PA P E R

Seniors’ Centre undergoing expansion

I N F O R M AT I V E !

The valley’s best read newspaper! 6,000 copies from Cranbrook to Golden. 2,000 copies in Calgary.

Read us online at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • E-mail: upioneer@telus.net • Phone: (250) 341-6299

“It was a big surprise,” said Eric Rasmussen, President of the Invermere Seniors’ Association, when speaking about the discovery of wood shavings used as insulation in the Seniors’ Centre on 14th Street.

“As far as we know, the building was built by a church group in the 1960s. They used lumber milled in Athalmer. Fir for studs and 1x8 and 1x6 shiplap was used throughout. For insulation, they used what was available locally and inexpensively – wood shavings. We think that the kids in the congregation might have been part of the construction crew. There were a lot of extra nails in some of the boards we uncovered and some of them were a little bent. Structurally, the building is really fine,” he said.

With 160 members, over half of whom use it every week, the centre needed to increase the number of washrooms, provide handicap accessibility, and improve the efficiency of the modest kitchen area to provide more counter space, cupboards, and storage.

Planning and fundraising began more than a year ago for the two-level, 680-square-foot addition. The added space includes new toilet stalls in the women’s washroom; a handicap washroom; and another men’s washroom. The basement will house the building’s mechanical operations. Eventually, this will include an ultra-violet water purifier system.

Eric Rasmussen, and another member Ed Cotton, began work on the renovation in August. Volunteers donated funds and significant discounts on goods and services, making this project possible.

“Helmer Construction gave us a very good deal on concrete,” he said. “The insulated concrete forms used for the basement walls were supplied at cost and installed by Colin McAndrews and Bucky Dalke, Dusk Framing did the framing, Rocky Mountain Cranes lifted trusses and materials, Kendall Hart is doing the torch-on roof, Intelligent Insulation Solutions is donating and installing Icynene spray foam insulation, replacing some of the wood shavings in the original structure and tying together the building envelope of the existing building and the addition. It’s a community effort and without help from these and other companies and individuals, this project would take a lot longer and be quite a bit more costly.”

The centre is a busy place with bridge three times a week, floor curling, carpet bowling, cribbage and Thursday drop-in for cards. In addition, 28 members are taking computer classes on the centre’s four computers. The centre is planning to add art classes. The hall is also available for rent.

“We’re very proud of this project and grateful for the assistance we have received from the community to enlarge and improve the facility. We look forward to welcoming new members and visitors,” he said.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

December 7, 2007

B.C. teens score high in science, reading Grade 10 students in British Columbia continue to perform competitively in science, math, and reading, according to the latest international assessment, provincial Education Minister Shirley Bond has announced.

“These international measures consistently show that our schools and students are some of the finest in the world, but also show areas for growth,” said Ms. Bond.

Results were released recently from the 2006 Programme for International Student Assessment of 15-year-olds’ abilities in science, math, and reading.

B.C. students were in the top-performing range worldwide, with only Finland doing significantly better in the science category.

In reading, only Finland and Korea were above B.C.’s range; while in mathematics, five jurisdictions were above B.C.’s range.

When comparing average scores, B.C. ranked fourth in science, sixth in reading and thirteenth in math.

Generally, the 2006 results for B.C. show scores similar to 2003 results.

British Columbia has been identified as the best Canadian example of a jurisdiction that has minimized the effect of socioeconomic status on performance while still maintaining a high level of student performance.

The survey is administered by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development every three years. In 2006, 15year-olds in 57 countries and 10 Canadian provinces participated, including nearly 1,900 students from 73 B.C. schools.

IF

The new cost of breaking traffic laws will make these really handy.

Bad driving habits will soon cost you more.

Starting January 1, ICBC introduces the Driver Risk Premium. It makes drivers with bad habits pay more.

For very bad habits — a lot more. The decisions you make, including whether or not to speed, drive recklessly, or drink and drive, are all within your control. Whether you pay more to drive is now up to you as well.

For more information visit ICBC.com.

icbc.com

YOU’RE LOCAL , YOU GET IT !

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

PIONEER ON THE ROAD Keep those photos coming!

The Pioneer continues to make its way around the world. Remember there are only three weeks left to get your photo published in The Pioneer and be eligible to win two free nights in the Fantasyland Hotel in West Edmonton Mall, courtesy of Travel World in Invermere.

All photos will be published, but only the names of Columbia Valley residents and homeowners will be entered in the draw.

Send your high-resolution photos to upioneer@telus.net or drop them off at our office, 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.

The draw will be made on January 1, 2008.

Left: Three local friends went on a 50th Birthday Party cruise to the Virgin Islands - they are Anne Riches, Darlene Ferguson and Irene Ogilvie, along with some of their new friends. Centre left: Todd and Brenda Mitchell with daughter Madeleine in Sedona, Arizona; centre right: Nissa Nielsen, Scott Storvik and Ashley Meadows in Hell - that’s Hell, Grand Canyon.

Bottom left: Alice Gorecki in Dubrovnik, Croatia; bottom, centre: Jackie and Larry Wright of Wasa, visiting the Maritimes; bottom right: Peter and Rocky Krebs at Magnetic Hill, New Brunswick.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

December 7, 2007

FAITH

Rescue a homeless animal

By Sandy Ferguson Christ Church Trinity “Poop” was our nickname for little Miller (not his real name). He was a very wee orange kitten who had been abandoned. Someone found him and called ICAN, the Invermere Companion Animal Network.

Next thing I knew, my wife Jenn, who is a member of ICAN, was volunteering to look after Miller for a few days. She brought him home. He was a sweetheart, but when he first arrived he was quite sick.

Nevertheless, he loved to curl up with us and purr, but, at the same time, his diarrhea meant he would poop! However, within a few days of loving care with us and another foster home he got better and his pooping stopped.

Now, Miller is in a new home, enjoying life as a kitten, spreading the gift of love to others.

So, why am I sharing the story of Miller? During the Christmas season, we celebrate the gift of God’s love for all of creation, revealed through the gift of Christ Jesus. And part of this celebration is serving those in creation who are less fortunate than us.

ICAN is truly is such a group. Through its work, it has helped a whole variety of companion animals, from cats, dogs, bunnies and even guinea pigs, find new homes and get a second chance to bring love into a family’s life.

It’s a wonderful gift to receive the gift of love from an animal who is given such a chance. Both of our dogs, Duffy and Tucker, came from shelters and are such wonderful advertisements for why rescued animals make such great companions.

We got Duffy from the shelter in Fort St. John.

He is a big black northern mix, with a gentle soul who likes to happily plod through life with his semi-toothless grin.

Tucker came to us from Canmore, and, yes, we did some cross-border shopping! He is a dapper little gentleman with a happy-go-lucky attitude that is quite infectious.

Now, Duffy and Tucker are brothers, as they trot along together through life and share in our lives, they bring joy and healing through a look and a hug.

ICAN is a witness to the old Jewish proverb that he who saves a life, saves the world. And as animals are a living part of the creation of God, through their efforts, ICAN does change the world for the better, when they share their gift of love through serving those animals that are in need.

They are also a profound reminder that anyone can change the world, all it takes is a willingness to serve others and respond to a need.

If you wish to help out ICAN, their website is www.icanhelpapet.com and their phone number is 341-7888.

They need foster homes, volunteers, people to adopt their loving animals, and donations. On December 7th and 14th, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., at Chopper’s Pet Supplies, ICAN has brought in Santa, so if you want a photo of your pet with Santa, be there!

Flu Drop-in The Travel Medicine and Vaccination Center will be having a one hour drop in for those people that did not qualify for the free vaccine.

The Flu vaccine will be offered for $20.00.

Influenza is a serious viral infection of the nose throat and lungs and about 1400 people die of the Flu or Pneumonia in B.C. every year. The Flu shot given to healthy children and adults limit the chances of wider spread Influenza outbreaks in the less healthy populations.

Date: December 13, 2007 Time: 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: Dr. Dibb’s Medical office, 1317, 7th Ave. Invermere (Near the Bakery)

Valley Churches LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, Dec. 9th, Second Sunday of Advent, 10:30 a.m.

Worship and Life Instruction: “Give With the Generosity of Christ” with Pastor Jared Enns ministering.

Sunday School, age 3 to Grade 7, during morning service.

7 p.m. Hymn Sing at the church.

For sermons online: www.sermonplayer.com/lwac 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535 WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY Sunday, Dec. 9th, 8:30 a.m. - Edgewater - All Saints 10:30 a.m. - Invermere - Christ Church Trinity Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644 www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY 10 a.m. Sunday: Children’s Church during the message part of the service.

7 p.m., Sunday: 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 • Father Jim McHugh Saturday 7 p.m. Mass • Sunday 9 a.m. Mass St. Joseph’s Church, Hwy 93/95 Radium Sunday 11 a.m. Mass St. Anthony’s Church, Canal Flats • Sunday 4 p.m.

712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 342-6167 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Regular weekly worship services every Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

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

WE SELL REAL ESTATE

• Radium • Invermere • Panorama • Windermere • Fairmont

342-6415

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

rayfergusonrealty.ca

UNBELIEVABLE OPPORTUNITY Large corner lot. Renovated, full duplex -development potential.

Zoned for 4 plex. Staff housing, rental income, investment.

$449,000 MLS# K166061

40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 7, 2007

www.ReMaxInvermere.com

Invermere

Toll Free: 1-888-258-9911

Independently Owned and Operated

250-342-6505

Wende Brash 342-1300

Bernie Raven 342-7415

Ed English 342-1194

On The Mountainside

Jan Klimek 342-1195

John McCarthy 342-1758

Andy Smith

Bryan Hookenson

342-1709

341-1266

Buy Today: Prot Tomorrow!

Rob Rice 341-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice 342-5935

Paul Glassford

Wow!

341-1395

Jill Hall 688-5675

Partially cleared, and with sunny southern exposure to front road, Fairmont mountainside building lot is ready for your recreational/retirement home now or any time you are ready – no building commitment. Close to all Fairmont amenities: golf courses, ski hill, mineral hot springs, shopping and dining. MLS#K166779

Quality home for the first-time home buyer, investment buyer or home-based business out of detached double garage/workshop. Open living room, dining room & kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fenced yard, decks & patio. Close to everything.

Call quickly – this one is a winner! MLS#K166592

No time commitment and a cul-de-sac location in Westridge. Huge partial lake view and fantastic mountain and valley view lot in Invermere’s premier community.

Close to everything. Perfect for a walk-out basement. The only one of its kind.

MLS#K166808

$169,900

$349,500

$209,000

Location, Location, Location

Excellent Value

Endless Possibilities

Own the busiest video store in Fairmont. The numbers speak for themselves and the location is ideal. Call for information package. MLS# NEW

You’re at the highest point. Take in the most spectacular mountain views for miles.

This lot is in a quiet gated community with a cleared building site ready for you to build your dream home. No building commitment. MLS#K166836

This unique property offers a house and a guest house. The possibilities for either 2 or 3 families to own property together, or amazing revenue potential abound! Too many features to mention them all. Take a look! MLS#K163347

$199,900

$379,000

$586,000

Build Your Home

Perfect Cottage

Family Getaway

Large pie-shaped lot in The Cottages at Copper Point. Just minutes to Invermere and all of its amenities. This property would be perfect for a side walkout, backs south and is treed for privacy. Best of all, no building commitment.

MLS#K166479

Fully finished on 3 floors, open living area with vaulted ceiling and beautifully decorated. Large rec room and walkout basement. This cottage has all the amenities and convenience that makes it the perfect year round cottage. MLS#NEW

Brand new in Timber Ridge. Designed to use every inch of space, four bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms, and large garage for the toys. Private beach and boat launch with four tennis courts. Comes with wonderful detail of hardwood flooring, knotty pine cabinets and screened in porch. MLS#K162828

$159,000

$498,900

$654,900

Golf Course Acreage

Spectacular Home

Over an acre in paradise with a creek is the setting for this outstanding log home. Hand crafted logs, vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling river rock fireplace set the stage for this large, bright two and a half storey home with a huge detached shop. Open design with 36 inch doors and an elevator to all three floors makes this home handicap accessible for family or Bed & Breakfast guests. Call for a complete list of features. MLS#K163099

This beautiful home is located in the prestigious Lakeview Meadows development in the Rocky Mountain trench. Come and view this unbelievable home in our spectacular mountain setting.

This four season playground has it all!

MLS#McLauchlin

$995,000

$1,500,000