vol4issue52

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

Vol. 4/Issue 52

The Columbia

FREE

December 28, 2007

Valley

P IONEER

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

GOOD CITIZENS

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

PRICES STEADY

4 HIGHER AND HIGHER

Cielle Cowles and Ty Horvat of Invermere will celebrate the new year with a toast to good times ahead in 2008.

16

Photo by Dave Sutherland

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 28, 2007

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

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Legion New Year’s Eve on rts at 8 pm

Music starts @ 8 pm Lunch at Midnight All members & guests welcome!

For more information call 342-9517

INVERMERE

PANORAMA

FAIRMONT

Waterfront condo, Panoramic views down all Lake Windermere and Rocky mtns. 2 bed+den/2 bath in new resort community.

Absolutely one of the best condos available any where. Incredible opportunity exists.

OWNER SAYS MAKE AN OFFER!!!

Gorgeous 4 bdrm, 4 bath Mountain getaway. Fully furnished! Views of golf course & ski hill. Incl pool table, 60” TV, hot tub, granite countertops, BBQ, hardwood, leather/microfiber couches!

The Creek Side Par 3 Golf Course borders this 0.29 acre lot, NO building commitment. Outstanding views of the Columbia Valley, walking distance to golfing, shopping, dining, hiking, biking, & skiing.

$1,499,000

$429,900 mls# k165921

$189,000 + GST

mls# k166051

mls# k166012

RADIUM

INVERMERE

INVERMERE

This condo’s large SW exposure balcony overlooks the pool, has spectacular views of Purcell’s & a walk-out bsmt.

Fully furnished & tastefully decorated 3 ½ baths, 2 bdrms, & sofa beds for visitors.

2nd flr 1,198 sq. ft. condo, 2 bdrms, 2 baths + a den w/ great mtn views!

Upgrades valued at $16,000. This is Invermere’s newest waterfront development. Close to all amenities + an onsite swimming pool.

Newest waterfront resort community!

Enjoy this exceptional community and location as it grows and develops outstanding amenities. Beautifully appointed mountain and valley view 2 bdrms condos.

$429,900

$419,900 + GST

$324,900 + GST

mls# k165365

342-5809

DAVID

342-1524

Strata Management

341-5168

341-5300

342-5914

BARRY

BILL

PAUL

ERIC

BARRY

342-5245

mls# k163705

mls# k165543

MARLENE

DIANA

341-5600

341-5269

CLARE

BRENDA

341-5335

Valley woman killed in highway accident

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff An Invermere woman was killed on Tuesday afternoon when the car she was riding in collided with a sports utility vehicle on the Trans-Canada highway west of Golden.

Kathy Cavanagh died when the eastbound Mazda Tribute in which she was travelling collided with a westbound Chevrolet Tracker SUV, which had crossed the centre line. The driver of the truck, who was from Chilliwack, also died.

Golden RCMP Traffic Services were called to the two-vehicle collision at 2:20 p.m. The incident happened in the Beaver Valley area of Glacier National Park.

It is believed that Ms. Cavanagh was riding in the back seat of the vehicle, which was being driven by her brother-in-law David Statham. Her sister Sue Statham was a passenger in the front seat.

Both the Stathams were injured and taken to

Christmas Tree Disposal Saturday, January 5th, 2008 Invermere Area Only Have trees out front of your house Friday night.

All monies from this project go to Cystic Fibrosis.

the Golden General Hospital.

RCMP Sgt. Strickland, from Golden Traffic Services, said it was snowing at the time and there was blowing snow with icy patches. Visibility was fair to good. That area of the Trans-Canada Highway is a straight, three-lane section of roadway.

An investigation is ongoing by the Golden RCMP and B.C. Coroner’s Service.

Tributes have been made to Kathy, who was a well-known member of the community.

Her former boss Lynda Malinoski, who owns the Invermere Cleaners and Coin Laundry where Kathy used to work, said she would be sadly missed.

“She was happy most of the time, and she just seemed to be that kind of a person. She was very friendly with a good nature. It’s very sad, and my thoughts go out to her family at this time,” Mrs. Malinoski said.

More information will be released by the family, said Sue’s daughter Lynn-Ann Digney.

Start the New Year with

Phone: 345-4000

526 B – 13th St. , Invermere

Phone: 342-6911

#5, 7553 Main St. W. , Radium

Phone: 347-0003

100 Spokane St., Kimberley

Phone: 427-7755

Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

20% off

All regularly priced clothing at

Any donations are gratefully accepted.

Trees will be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Invermere 342-7060

342-1146

Fairmont Village Mall, Fairmont

www.rockymtnrealty.com

VALLEY NEWS

Happy New Year Everyone!

All the best to you in the year ahead.

N E W S PA P E R

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

December 28, 2007

VALLEY NEWS

Fairmont Resort buys golf course

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

A $500-million expansion of Fairmont Hot Springs has taken another step towards reality.

The international four-season resort’s new owner, Ken Fowler Enterprises, has now acquired the Riverside Golf Resort—which includes the 18-hole Championship Golf Course, clubhouse and 1,000 acres of developable land—bringing the resort to 3,000 acres. Terms of the private sale are not being disclosed.

The Riverside Golf Resort is just part of an exciting expansion plan for the resort. This will include an expansion of the natural hot springs, an enhanced spa and wellness centre with newly-designed hot springs pools, a new resort/retail village with an outdoor event plaza, walking trails, and luxury hotel condominiums. The new village centre will feature expanded dining and shopping with 100,000 square feet of commercial space.

The resort is also commissioning a study on ski hill expansion and evaluating improvements for the existing championship golf courses.

This new expansion plan will also include details on the timeline for completion of new single-family homesites, townhomes, condos, hotel rooms and the quantities available.

This will be the first time in more than 10 years that Fairmont Hot Springs is launching a neighbourhood of home sites of this calibre. It is envisaged the entire expansion plan will be phased in over the next 20 years.

Richard Haworth, Vice-President of Development, said acquiring the golf course was just part of the larger plan for the resort.

“Riverside Golf Course and the associated development lands are seen as an integral part of Fairmont and need to be part of a single planned vision for the community.

“Part of this master planning process is to review and evaluate every aspect of the resort, including Riverside Golf Course – it is our intent to make Fairmont a great golf destination.

“The acquisition of Riverside Golf Resort is part of Ken Fowler Enterprises’ plan to create more of a good thing at Fairmont Hot Springs,” Mr. Haworth said.

Fairmont Hot Springs resort already features many facilities including all natural mineral hot springs, lodge with spa, conference centre, 27 holes of golf, ski resort and ski school, self interpretive hiking trails, horseriding, fishing and river rafting on the Columbia River.

The Lodge at Fairmont Hot Springs has 120 suites and a 300 person conference centre. The resort has 700 acres of existing recreational space for golf, ski, and spas, and currently has a resort community of 1,000 homes, townhomes and villas.

The resort community has several restaurants and lounges including the Mountain Side Clubhouse, the Mountain Flowers Dining Room, Bear’s Paw Lounge and Tuscano’s Market. There is also a 310-site recreational vehicle park close to the mineral hot springs.

Fairmont Hot Springs has been a retreat for thousands of years, long before European explorers came upon the springs in the early 1800s.

For centuries, the Ktunaxa native people have visited the “land of smoking waters” to soak up the curative powers of the natural mineral hot springs that gave birth to the resort.

Riverside owner was reluctant to sell

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

Don Seable, the builder and former owner Riverside Golf Course, said he was reluctant to sell the property but did it for the good of Fairmont Hot Springs.

“I don’t know if it’s ‘congratulations’ or commiserations,” he said, “but I do believe it’s better for Fairmont to do this.”

Don and Carol Seable built Riverside Golf Course in 1986-1987 and it opened in 1988. Offers to buy started coming in after Riverside was named Canada’s Golf Course of the Year in 1998, but the Seables had no intention of selling.

“Certainly there is an upside to selling. Carol and I will be able to spend more time with our grandkids,” Mr. Seable commented. “But when you build something up from scratch, it becomes part of you, just like a child.”

Last year, when that “child” turned 20, Ken Fowler entered the picture, purchased Fairmont Hot Springs Resort and unveiled a grand new vision, which included operating all three Fairmont golf courses under the same management team.

“When we met Ken Fowler and his team, we were so impressed with his sense of integrity, ambition and vision for the future of the community,” he said, “we decided to consider his plan.

“We observed how he dealt with the Wilder

family (former owners of the resort) in an honest, open and cooperative way with a true goal of trying to meet the highest goals of each side of the deal, and felt that he was the only person to carry out the dream that we shared with Lloyd Wilder, the founder of Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.”

The Seables believe in the idea that a singular design and plan for the community will result in a better, more enjoyable and more sustainable community than one that is the result of random development of smaller parcels.

“I do not believe we would have considered any other offer than the one which united the Riverside and Fairmont Hot Springs,” he said.

“Fairmont will always be our home.”

The Pool Side Store and the Lobby Shop D Largest swimwear selection in all of Western Canada D Great stocking stuffers throughout the stores D Roxy, Billabong, Phantom, Sunset Separates and much more

Call: 250.345.6448

D Gift baskets made to order D Clothing, footwear, books and gift wear D Open daily ‘til 6 p.m.

E-mail: info@fairmonthotsprings.com

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

Real estate market still flat Seasons Greetings for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

800.663.4979 fairmonthotsprings.com

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Even though it was one of the busiest years on record, local realtors say the Columbia Valley real estate market remains flat and they are looking to the new year for a modest rise in prices.

Re/Max Invermere realtor Bernie Raven said the holiday season is at least partly to blame for the sluggish market.

“It’s kind of slow right now, but I think the time of year has something to do with it,” he said. “You’ve seen prices come down a little, but all-in-all, this has been a very busy year.”

At mid-year, realtors were blaming summer vacations when the recently hot market showed signs of cooling. MaxWell Realty managing broker Scott Wallace said that “cooling period” developed into a definite flat spot as the year wore on.

“It has definitely levelled off,” he said. “There is some downward pressure on prices. Whatever happens in Calgary is going to happen here.”

Market trends in the Columbia Valley tend to follow trends established in Alberta, he said.

Based on a report released by Royal LePage this week, headlines have declared the “Real estate boom finished in Edmonton.”

Thank you!

2007 Holiday Train

The Radium Rotary Sunrise Club CPR Train Committee would like to thank all the citizens of our great valley! Because of your generosity, we received over 500 pounds of food and $5,000 in cash donations for the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

Thanks also to the following individuals and businesses for making the 2007 Holiday Train a great success:

According to the report, the rapid rise in home prices in Calgary and Edmonton in 2006 and the first half of 2007 priced buyers out of the market and only moderate increases are expected in the new year.

Nationally, it says, house prices will rise by 3.5 percent to an average of $317,288, but the number of transactions is expected to slip by four percent, still more than any other year prior to 2007.

“There are all kinds of predictions out there,” Mr. Wallace said. “I’ve read reports recently that say it’s supposed to go up from five to eight percent this year.

We’re in a holding pattern right now.”

Mr. Raven said he expects prices for apartment condominiums to go down this year, fueled by fierce competition.

“We have a lot of condos right now,” he said. “My personal opinion is that prices are going to go down for the run-of-the-mill, apartment-style condos.”

However, he said, single-family detached homes in Invermere will continue to command a high price due to the serious shortage of homes available.

Development costs, he said, will drive prices for detached home prices up with the additional cost being passed on to the consumer.

“First time homebuyers,” he said, “will have a harder time. It doesn’t seem to be doing anything for them.”

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

December 28, 2007

Children injured in bridge accident

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

Columbia Valley RCMP are investigating a serious injury motor vehicle crash which happened around 11:45 p.m. on Thursday, December 20th at the Dutch Creek Bridge repair site.

Emergency crews were called to the scene after a car carrying three children and two adults was struck from behind by a second vehicle near the temporary crossing over Dutch Creek.

The vehicle was in the centre of the highway and the children were pinned in the back of the car until fire and rescue services extricated them.

All occupants were taken to Invermere Hospital and the most seriously injured child, a seven-year-old boy, was taken to Cranbrook and then to Calgary Children’s Hospital.

At the time The Pioneer went to

press, his condition was not known.

RCMP brought the uninjured driver of the second vehicle, a pick-up truck, to the detachment office where two breath samples were taken on “demand” and analyzed at 140 mg and 130 mg. The legal limit is 80 mg.

The driver, a 36-year-old Columbia Valley resident, is scheduled to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on February 19th, 2008.

The Columbia Valley detachment and East Kootenay Traffic Services are continuing the investigation.

The temporary bridge was constructed just weeks ago after a driver carrying an over-height load struck the bridge at Dutch Creek near the Hoodoos on Monday, December 3rd.

It can carry single-lane traffic only, and was constructed within a week as a temporary measure while the Ministry of Transport carries out a full damage assessment.

Season’s Greetings from Dayna and Maria at nglz A Hair & Tanning Studio • 342-3227 We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Avion

Construction Ltd.

Columbia Valley District Office INVERMERE

Phone: (250) 342-9866

Elevate Your New Year’s Experience

www.eagleranchresort.com

Join us for the 1st New Year’s Celebration in The Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch!

Enjoy fine dining with an exquisite 6-course Chef’s tasting menu. Local folk jazz group Combo Akimbo will add the musical delight, kicking it up on into the night. The champagne toast is on the host! We’ll even make sure you stay topped up on our Service Beyond™. 3 seating times available starting at 6:30 p.m. on December 31.

Let this be the beginning of a great 2008, tickets $100, reserve with us today!

Holiday Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. & Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Call 250-342-6560 for restaurant reservations • www.eagleranchresort.com

6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

December 28, 2007

Things we never saw coming

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Publisher My predictions for 2007 last year were, well, predictable – mostly related to growth in the valley.

But there were some surprises, too. Mark Shmigelsky announced he would not run for mayor again in 2008. After many years on council, we expected he would hang in there for the long haul. Prediction: Mr. Shmigelsky will enjoy some time with his family before returning to the political limelight.

Having heard for years about the regional district’s plans to introduce broadband to the valley, we didn’t expect that there would be such a well-mounted opposition which ultimately defeated the proposal. One of the arguments against broadband is that something better will soon come along. Prediction for the next five years: nothing better will come along.

We didn’t expect that the Jumbo Resort Development would still be up in the air. This time last year, the regional district board of directors was bracing itself to vote on whether the land should be rezoned. To date, no rezoning application has been filed. Prediction for 2008: one way or another, it’s a done deal.

Surprisingly, the Octagon property in downtown Invermere is still lying silent and empty. Approved in May 2006 by council, the project was then sold to another company which is in the process of trying to get financing. Prediction for 2008: anyone’s guess.

Although cynics were not surprised, it was an unexpected blow when Invermere council put the kibosh on the proposed performing arts centre because of a perceived lack of public support. Prediction: council will try to please everyone by proposing a wading pool/library/movie theatre/hockey arena/curling rink/ conference centre/bowling alley/arts centre/climbing wall that will fragment fundraising and create such a conflict of opinions that nothing will ever get built.

Life is filled with surprises, both good and bad.

Here’s wishing you some very pleasant surprises in 2008. Happy New Year from The Pioneer!

xxx dip in the pool?

Anyone for a quick xxxphotograph

Fore more years than we know about, humans have enjoyed bathing in the natural odourless hot springs that bubble out of the ground in the Columbia Valley, at both Radium and Fairmont. And the colder it gets outside, the more appealing the steaming waters.

Back in 1928, a youthful Jim Ashworth, who now lives in Fairmont Hot Springs, posed for this

before jumping into Radium Hot Springs Pool. We’re guessing he didn’t stand in the frosty air very long! The snow and the frozen steam from the pool make the setting into a dramatic winter wonderland, espeically after dark.

Both hot springs are openofduring the holidays Photo courtesy Windermere District and to find out their hours of operation, please turn Historical Society to Page 11.

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 28, 2007

Happy New Year from Jim Abbott

By Jim Abbott, MP Kootenay-Columbia The holiday season is traditionally a time when we reflect on what has happened in our lives over the past 12 months and look forward to what we can accomplish in the year ahead.

For my part, I am grateful to have had the honour to serve since 1993 as the MP for Kootenay Columbia.

Throughout the holidays I look forward to attending numerous events in our community and to speaking with many of you about this experience.

Today in Canada, the economy is strong, the government is clean and the country is united. Canada is a more stable and optimistic place than any time in our recent past, yet our greatest strength lies in our energy and determination to build a better future.

For instance, today Canadians are able to hold on to more of their own money through lower taxes. This fall, I was proud to join my colleagues in the Conservative government in voting to reduce the tax burden on individuals and small businesses. This includes yet another cut to the GST – to five percent! Now, my constituents and all Canadians can keep more of the money they worked so hard to earn.

We have also shown new leadership when it comes to protecting Canadian families from crime. We have introduced tough new penalties for those

who commit crimes with a gun. We are protecting our children from sexual exploitation by raising the age of consent.

We are introducing tougher sentences for those convicted of drug crimes or identity theft. And we are taking action against the most dangerous criminals by toughening dangerous offender laws so that they stay behind bars.

We are also taking strong steps to make Canada’s government more accountable to you. This includes our insistence that Canada’s Senate be elected to be sure they represent your interests.

Right now, around the globe, thousands of men and women in the Canadian Forces are serving bravely to ensure more people can also grow up in safe and free societies. They are going to be spending this holiday season far away from their loved ones. We must never forget how much these brave men and women and their families sacrifice in the name of their country. We should always remember to say “thank you.”

Working together, we are building a prouder, better Canada that is prosperous and safe; a country where what matters is who you are and what you do, not who you know or where you are from; a place where people from around the world can live in harmony; a federation that is more united at home and respected abroad than it has been for decades. In short, 2008 will be a very good year for Canada. And that is something to look forward to.

“Wishing you Health, Prosperity and lots of Cropping in the New Year”

“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.

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

It’s Ski Season!

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Ski Area Nancy Greene E1 & E2 + + + + + + + + + + +

For skiers and snowboarders (E1) 10-week skill development program Runs 10 consecutive Saturdays 5 hours coaching each day, starting at 10:30 a.m.

Starts January 12, 2008 Children aged 6-12 years (E2) 14-week skill development program Runs Saturdays and Sundays 5 hours coaching each day, starting at 10.30am Starts December 29, 2007 Children aged 7-12 years

Starting at $300 plus GST. Pass NOT included

Snowbirds + + + + + + +

5-week learn-to-ski program Sessions are Sundays from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Children aged 4-8 years First session starts January 13, 2008 Pre-register by January 1, 2008 Second session starts February 24, 2008 Pre-register by February 17, 2008

Only $95 plus GST for a 5-week session (Rental equipment and lift tickets available at a discount)

Board Wild + + + + + + +

Jan. 12th 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Grandparents Brag Book Class See in store for details.

(250) 342-7238 Downtown Invermere

5-week learn-to-board program Sessions are Sundays from 10:30 a.m. – noon Children aged 7-14 years First session starts January 13, 2008 Pre-register by January 1, 2008 Second session starts February 24, 2008 Pre-register by February 12, 2008

Only $95 plus GST for a 5-week session (Rental equipment and lift tickets available at a discount)

Call now to register!

250.345.6037

info@fairmonthotsprings.com

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

CARS

1997 Mercury Sable V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07276B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,995 SOLD TO VERY NICE 1999 Chrysler Concorde LX V6,SOME Auto, Loaded Stk#T08152A . . . . . . .PEOPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $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 TOAuto SOME 2004 Chrysler SOLD Intrepid V6, LoadedVERY Stk#U1158ANICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PEOPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $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 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 SOLD VERY 2006 GMC 1500 Ext CabTOV8,SOME Auto, Loaded, 4x4NICE Stk#U1130 . PEOPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,995

VANS

1999 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, AWD Stk#C07372B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,995 2002 Pontiac Montana V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07119A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10,995 2002 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07360A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9,995 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan, V6, Stow’n’Go, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1151 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,995 2002 Pontiac Montana V6, Loaded Stk#T071255 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$11,495

SUV’S

SOLD4TO SOME NICE 2007 Jeep Compass cyl, Auto, A/C,VERY 4x4 Stk#C07285A . . . . . . . . .PEOPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $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

PIONEER ON THE ROAD— Bill, Erin and Debbie Bonner in front of the SV Concordia in Gdynia Poland! It was taken in June when wher parents met Erin arriving on the SV Concordia! Their names will be included in our 2007 Travel Photo draw for two free nights at the Fantasyland Hotel in Edmonton, courtesy of Travel World.

> >>>

Encore

Page 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

COMBO AKIMBO

MOVIE REVIEW

Deb Ede and Kurt Reichel of Combo Akimbo, seen here performing at the Windermere Fall Fair in August, will be the featured performers at Eagle Ranch on New Year’s Eve.

PAGE 10

HELPING SANTA

PAGE 24

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

Photo by Brian Geis

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the Columbia Valley Arts Council Board of Directors.

Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Office closed from December 22 - December 30.

What does ART mean to you?

Call To Artists · 2008 Gallery Season · Applications are available for those artists interested in showing at the Pynelogs Cultural Centre for the 2008 Gallery Season. Call 342-4423 for more information.

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

PAGE 11

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

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

Review: The Treatment Reviewed by Rachel Pinder

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year From the friendly staff at Palliser Printing Bring in the New Year at

BLACK LIGHT DRESS WHITE

Romantic comedies, chick flicks, call them what you like. Sometimes I love them, sometimes I hate them. Most of the time it depends just how cheesy they are.

So when I sat down to watch The Treatment I really wasn’t sure what to expect. It’s not like I’d heard of the movie before, and I didn’t really know any members of the cast—Chris Eigeman, Ian Holm and Famke Janssen. But I like watching films like that, without any expectations.

Jake Singer is a dedicated schoolteacher. He’s been recently ditched by his girlfriend, who has the audacity to invite him to her engagement party to meet her new beau—not the most pleasant of situations for anyone, least of all Jake. He decides to see a therapist, which was probably the worst thing he could have done. He gets a crazy Argentinian, Dr. Ernesto Morales, who questions him more like an interrogator than someone who wants to help.

Dr. Moralies keeps popping up in every situation Jake finds himself in, like his conscience speaking, but it's kind of

freaky, especially when he suddenly appears when Jake is in a particularly intimate and compromising position.

A love interest pops up in the form of socialite widow Allegra Marshall.

Jake finds himself trying help her with her adoption plight. Both her children are adopted, but only her older son Alex has his adoption finalized.

Allegra faces the prospect of losing her daughter because she is no longer a two-parent family after her husband passed away. Unbeknown to Allegra, Jake thinks he can help out when he's mistaken for her late husband by the scary lady from the adoption agency.

There’s just about every scenario thrown in to this movie that’s never actually likely to happen in real life. And I have to say the therapist from hell gets a bit annoying after a while when he keeps popping up all over the place.

But there’s less cheese smothered all over this movie than some chick flicks, and maybe a bit of reality chucked in there for good measure.

RATING: 6 OUT OF 10 HEADS

Welcome in the New Year at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

Party till 4 am Tickets on sale TODAY (front desk of Invermere Inn)

New Year’s Eve Gala

Join us in the Cedar Ballroom for a New Years party you won’t soon forget! Live entertainment, party favours and a glass of bubbly at midnight. Casual elegant dress; this party is for those 16 years and older.

GREAT DRINK PARTY FAVOURS H C N U L E T A L BOTTLES OF BUBB S E SPECIALS Z I R P R O LY DO

*Advance tickets are required. $52.95 per person plus GST. Available at the Front Desk For tickets 250.345.6311 info@fairmonthotsprings.com

TICKETS $20 PER PERSON (MUST BE 19 YEARS OF AGE) VALID FOR ENTRY UNTIL 11PM

Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

Gone

HOLLYWOOD V

I D E O

Gone Hollywood’s

TOP FIVE OF THE WEEK Last Week’s Top 5 Rentals 1) Born Ultimatum 2) Super Bad 3) Harry Potter 4) Pirates of the Carribean 5) The Simpson’s Movie

New Releases December 25 1 The Heartbreak Kid 2 Rush Hour 3 3 The Brothers Soloman 4 The Kingdom 5 Eastern Promises

New Releases January 1 1 Jimmy & Judy 2 Resident Evil Extinction 3 September Dawn 4 Shoot ‘em Up 5 War

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 28, 2007

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

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

TOBY THEATRE • 7:30 pm, Dec. 26-29: Bee Movie.

• 7:30 pm: Jan. 2-5: Walt Disney’s Enchanted

HOLIDAY HOURS Invermere Public Library Closed Christmas week.

Open again Wednesday, Jan. 2 from noon to 8 p.m.

Panorama Mountain Village Dec. 29: Winter Wonderland Dec. 31: New Year’s Live Entertainment with Paul Issaks and Penelope the Clown Dec. 31: New Year’s Buffet Dinner Jan. 2: Paul Issaks live entertainment Jan. 3: Syndicate rail jam Jan. 4: Live entertainment for university week Jan. 5: Big 5 - Celtic Ceileigh Jan. 6: Banff Film Festival Tour, by RK Heli-Ski Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Dec. 30: 7 a.m. to noon: Sunday Brunch Dec. 31: 7 p.m. New Year’s Gala Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Breakfast Buffet Fairmont Hot Springs Pool Open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Jan. 1: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Call 345-6030 for info.

Invermere Thrift Store Closed until Jan. 9.

Radium Hot Springs Pool Until Jan. 6: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For info, call 347-9485.

Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Public Skating Schedule: Dec. 28, 29, 30: 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.

Cost $2 each; pre-schoolers free.

Columbia Valley Pioneer Newspaper: Office closed Christmas week.

Open Dec. 31, closed New Year’s Day. For info: 341-6299.

Invermere Post Office Dec. 29: 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Dec. 31: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

January 1st: Closed District of Invermere Municipal Office Closed Christmas week.

Open Dec. 31, closed New Year’s Day Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Closed to the public until Jan. 6th.

Pick up your new Telus phone books at Selkirk TV & Appliances, 1229-7th Avenue, Invermere.

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS • New Year’s Live Entertainment with Paul Issaks and Penelope the Clown. New Year’s Buffet Dinner, Panorama Mountain Village. For info: 342-6941.

• 7 p.m. New Year’s gala, live entertainment, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. For tickets: (250) 345-6311.

• 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Celebrate Radium’s 17th birthday with tobogganing and ice skating. Free hot dogs, chili, hot chocolate and cake at Rink Park on Stanley Street followed at 6:30 p.m. sharp by fireworks at The Springs Golf Course driving range. For info: 1-800-347-9704.

• New Year’s Eve Party at Copper City Saloon, Invermere until 4 a.m. Dress White, Black Light.

• 6 p.m. New Year’s dinner at Copper Point Golf Club; entertainment by Troy Kokol. For reservations: (250) 341-3392.

• New Year’s Masquerade at Bud’s Bar & Lounge, Invermere until 4 a.m.; entertainment by DJ Lefy and Guests. For info: (250) 342-2965.

6 pm: Cocktails, Buffet Dinner and Dance to the live band Redfish at Radium Resort. For reservations: 347-9311.

• 6:30 p.m. Prime Rib New Year’s Supper, Station Pub, Invermere. For reservations: (250) 342-8346.

• 6:30 p.m. New Year’s Dinner at The Clubhouse, Eagle Ranch Golf Course. Three seatings available.

Music by local folk jazz group Combo Akimbo. For reservations: (250) 342-6560.

• 8 pm: New Year’s celebration at the Royal Canadian Legion, Invermere. Music starts at 8 p.m.; lunch at midnight. Members and guests welcome.

• 8:30 pm-1 am: Dance, Buffet Dinner and Prizes at the Edgewater Community Hall, sponsored by the Edgewater Volunteer Fire Department.

NEW YEAR’S CHURCH SERVICES Saturday, December 29: • 7 p.m. Canadian Martyrs Roman Catholic Church, Invermere Sunday, December 30: • 10 a.m. Valley Christian Assembly • 10:30 a.m. Morning Worship, Anglican and United Shared Ministry, Christ Church Trinity, Invermere • 10:30 a.m. Celebration Sunday and Communion, Lake Windermere Alliance Church • 9 a.m. Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere • 10 a.m. Radium Christian Fellowship • 11 a.m. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Radium 1:30 p.m. St. Peter’s Lutheran Mission of Invermere, service held at Christ Church Trinity Monday, December 31: • 7 p.m. Canadian Martyrs Roman Catholic Church Tuesday, January 1: • 10 a.m. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Radium • Noon: St. Anthony’s Church, Canal Flats

Friday, January 4th : • 5 pm: Pot Luck Supper and Fur Trader Birch Bark Canoe Presentation by David Demuy, Legion Banquet Room, Golden. For info: (250) 344-2303.

Saturday, January 5th : • Christmas Tree Disposal: Invermere residents only.

Put your Christmas trees out on the street Friday night.

Donations gratefully accepted, with funds to Cystic Fibrosis. Trees will be disposed of in an environmentallyfriendly manner.

Sunday, January 6th: • Noon to 3 pm: Swim registration at Sobeys for all Red Cross and other club programs.

Tuesday, January 8th : • 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Golden Rockets, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Saturday, January 12th : • 8 am-8 pm: Byelection to elect a new councillor for the Village of Canal Flats. Vote at the Canal Flats Community Hall. Candidates are Emile Morin and Bruce Woodbury.

Warmest Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season!

Everyone at Eagle Ranch extends wishes for a happy holiday season to our community and our friends.

Wishing that everyone will enjoy family, friends, laughter and good cheer throughout this holiday season.

And for a New Year filled with hope, happiness, health and prosperity!

Merry Christmas and best wishes for a wonderful 2008!

Elevate Your New Year’s Experience Call (250) 342-6560 for restaurant reservations • www.eagleranchresort.com

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

SPECIAL DELIVERY! NEW YEAR’S SAVINGS AT

Ask Otto and get

25% - 50% off

regular prices 105 - 901 7th Ave. Invermere Sale ends January 5th Phone: (250) 342-4470

PIONEER ON THE ROAD—Kirsten Sage recently travelled to Puerto Vallarta with 17 of her family members. Here she is with a friend at the resort. Her name will be entered in our 2007 Travel Photo draw.

It’s the Final Countdown of the 40 Below Sale at

The Place/Invermere Furniture

40% off SALE ENDS all instock items First come, First Served Don’t be disappointed!

JANUARY 5

TH

MANY ITEMS BELOW COST! Nobody beats The Place!

Now open late 6 nights a week!

Monday - Saturday 9 am - 9 pm • Sunday 11 am - 4 pm 516 - 13th Street • 342-8338 / 342-8366

Dare to Compare!

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

December 28, 2007

Norm joins Facebook

By Norm Macdonald MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke During the month of December, I was able to spend a great deal of time travelling throughout the constituency and I was able to meet with many of you. I value the opportunity to hear directly what issues matter to you.

When I was elected, I made a commitment that I would be a strong voice in Victoria. I promised I would raise your issues and concerns and fight for the communities I represent. I also said I would provide opportunities for you to share your concerns.

During both sittings of the Legislature in 2007, I brought forward many issues that you raised: forestry, housing, ATV legislation and highway maintenance are a few examples. Residents asked me to push the government to restore funding to Childcare Resource and Referral Centres. Speaking out on that issue has made a difference.

As a rural MLA, I understand the issues faced by rural communities are

different from those in urban areas.

Many of fellow NDP MLAs represent rural communities and a Rural Caucus was formed to be the voice of rural B.C. The 14 members of the Rural Caucus are committed to working with rural residents to develop a strategy that supports the retention of services in rural areas and supports the concept of keeping wealth in rural communities.

To provide more opportunities to meet with constituents, I held a Community Forum in each community. I was pleased by the number of people who attended and I found the discussions we had very informative.

I have developed a new website at www.NormMacdonald.ca which is regularly updated with my MLA reports, press releases and media stories. I have also joined Facebook which I have found very interesting.

I am looking forward to another great year in 2008. I will be working in the constituency until the Spring Session which begins in February. I invite you to continue to keep in touch.

Monday, December 31st BUD’S will be decorated like you’ve never seen before!

Wear your favourite costume!

Midnight Snacks • Open til 4:00 a.m.!

DJ LEFTY & GUESTS

Bud’s is where it’s at! • 342-2965

Make the FULL-TIME move to Radium Hot Springs Full Ownership Condos • 1,200 sq. ft. for only

257,900

$

Inc NET GST

Heated Underground Parking, Insuite Laundry, Storage Locker, Gas Fireplace.

Call us today at

250-347-6557

for a personal tour of The Pinewood Show Suite and Development.

Or visit us at … www.thepinewood.ca

Living in a condo in Radium has made life easier for us to pursue our interests of traveling, golfing, skiing and hiking. When we want to go we just lock the door! Radium has a lot to offer because of its location and of course the national park hiking trails and hot springs are within walking distance. The library right across the street from The Pinewood has a great selection of books and all the latest best sellers to read in your leisure time. Condo living is worry free as far a outside maintenance is concerned.

The inside has all the features that make everyday living in a condo a delight. We have also met many neighbours in the condo who have become friends. We have lived in two condo developments by Instautor Group and couldn’t be happier in our choice to live full-time here!

Rob & Karen Bedford Full-time residents in Radium

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 20th 4.35% 4.65% 4.75% 4.80% 4.90% 4.95% 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.

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

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

December 28, 2007

YOUR MONEY Five financial resolutions for the new year

With the start of another new year approaching, most of us feel a burst of energy. It suddenly seems like a good time to re-consider our lives and think about what we’d like to change.

Why should the financial side of our lives be any different? With that in mind, here are a few suggestions to help make the New Year a profitable one—not just for the next twelve months, but far into the future.

Pay yourself first For many of us, it’s hard to understand how our money disappears every month. Unless you have a regular approach to savings, it’s easy to miss out on the enormous benefits of long-term financial planning. So before you do anything with your paycheque, remember to pay yourself first. Start by putting 10 percent of your earnings into an investment account. A monthly pre-authorized chequing plan can make this process automatic—you won’t even miss the money.

Maximize your RRSP contribution The registered retirement savings plan is perhaps the best retirement savings tool at your disposal. In addition to its power to compound your savings free of tax, it generates an immediate tax credit—two reasons why it deserves to be the cornerstone of your investment plan. If you haven’t made your maximum contribution yet, or if you have unused contribution room available from previous years, do everything you can to make a contribution before the March 1 deadline.

Review your asset allocation The allocation of your portfolio will shift over time, depending on the performances of different asset classes throughout the year. So it’s a good idea to

review the balance of stocks, bonds, and cash in your portfolio in January, and see if any changes need to be made. You’ll also want to consider your exposure to various markets around the world. Although Canadian stocks have done well, there’s no rule that says that will be the case in 2008.

Pay off non-deductible debt What’s the investment with the highest guaranteed rate of return? Paying off your credit card. Most credit cards charge double-digit interest rates, so be sure to pay yours off monthly. Or approach your financial institution about lower-interest debt consolidation plans. If you have a mortgage, investigate an acceleration of your payments. You’d be surprised how much you can save, simply by moving from a monthly payment to a bi-weekly payment.

Review your estate plan If it’s been some time since you’ve examined your estate plan, take the time now to review your intentions, and make appropriate changes to your will. (If you haven’t yet written your will, make it a top priority to do so.) You’ll want to pay particular attention to your beneficiaries (is there anyone to add or delete from the list?), as well as your executor (is your choice still an appropriate one?).

Remember your life Always remember: there is more to life than money. Be good to yourself. Get some exercise. Spend some time with the family. Take up a hobby. Go for a walk.

Volunteer your time to a worthy cause.

Remember, life is short.

And you can’t take it with you.

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 17th, 2007

13,387 13,167 15,249 $90.63 $799.30 $0.9943

Weekly Gain/Loss

-552.89 -558.80 -674.21 2.77 -14.20 -0.0002

YTD

3.71% 5.65% -11.95% 48.46% 24.89% 18.82%

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

Ask us about our free consultations and no fee accounts.

Most people review their Investment portfolio regularly!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phone: 342-5052

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

December 28, 2007

Life Time Warranty on all Blinds Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

STATION PUB

New Year’s Eve Supper One Sitting • 6:30 pm

8oz Prime Rib $28.50 Wishing you a Happy New Year from the management & staff

CHRISTMAS RUSH—Postmaster Dianne Haagsman sorts through some of the many parcels which arrived at the Invermere Post Office every day in the countdown to Christmas.

Photo by Rachel Pinder

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Invermere Post office staff were flat out in the build-up to Christmas, as they sorted hundreds of parcels which made it to the valley from all over the world.

“We started getting busy at the end of October, which is the postage deadline for sending international parcels overseas. A lot of people in Invermere sent things abroad and, of course, many of the Panorama staff have been sending presents back to Australia,” said postmaster Dianne Haagsman.

Canada Post does 20 percent of its business at Christmas time. Dianne says the post office at Invermere sorted through between 130 and 200 parcels a day, with a similar volume being sent out over the counter. The mail is collected every day at 12:30 p.m. so lunch time is particularly busy with people often lined up out the door.

Dianne said they took on two extra full-time staff to handle the load. There were also a couple of casual staff she could call if she needed an extra pair of hands.

“The spate of bad weather we had a couple of weeks ago put us out a bit, as our deliveries which usually arrive at 12.30 p.m. didn’t get in until around 4 p.m.

This created a real backlog, as we just didn’t have the time in the day to sort it out. Then, the next day we’d still have to sort the previous day’s mail, which put us behind a bit for a couple of days,” Dianne said.

The parcels and boxes flooded in from lots of different countries, including Europe, Asia, Australia and even South Korea.

“Many people are doing their shopping online, so a lot of parcels arrived from the U.S., which keeps us busy, too. I think with the internet boom, our letter mail volume has dropped, but parcel volume has definitely increased. People still like to receive something in the mail for Christmas,” she said.

Mail makes Santa’s job easier

Reservations Please 342-8346

Clip this out for 20% off anything in the store!

3 floors of antiques and collectibles

1525 Cranbrook St. N., Cranbrook

(250) 489-2106

Open 7 days a week

expires Dec. 31st ‘07

JUST ARRIVED…

Fabulous, custom made for us.

Rusted iron and reclaimed wood tables

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

All of our prices adjusted to new dollar strength.

Across from A&W

(250) 342-5525 Just a reminder… The classified deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

Dan Griffith 187 days with his head in the clouds

The man who climbed the Seven Summits in 2006 hasn’t stopped climbing . . . but he also spends time telling an eager public about his adventures.

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Most of us can only imagine standing on top of the world’s highest mountains.

But Dan Griffith has had the privilege and amazing experience of standing at the summit of the highest peak on each of the globe’s seven continents.

He’s conquered Mount Everest in Nepal, Mount McKinley in Alaska, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Elbrus in Russia, Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia, Mount Aconcagua in Argentina and Mount Vinson in Antarctica.

He even got into the Guinness Book of World Records for the fastest trip up all seven peaks, in a total of 187 days.

But that’s old news. That was 2006 and Dan is still setting new goals for himself.

Some might think that 57 years is a respectable age to start kicking back a little and taking it easy.

However, that’s the last thing on Dan’s mind as he looks forward to the New Year with a climbing trip planned for Bolivia in May and the new experience of

becoming a granddad on the horizon.

Dan and his wife Deb, 55, have three children— Luke, 27, Genevieve, 24, and Rachel, 23.

His daughter Genevieve is expecting her first baby in January, while daughter Rachel is training to be a teacher at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, and son Luke has almost finished his certified mountain guide qualification.

Dan enjoyed Christmas at home with his family in Invermere, although son Luke was away working in the Cariboos heli-skiing.

Dan’s latest challenge is public speaking about his adventures, which has taken him across Canada, and even back to his home town of Stratford, Ontario.

He has given about 20 presentations to a variety of people this year, from public school groups to business corporations.

But Dan says climbing the world’s highest peaks is no challenge compared to getting up to speak in front of several hundred people.

“I gave my first talk at David Thompson Secondary School in March last year in front of 260 people, and it was quite a challenge. I’ve since spoken to sev-

eral school groups, and a couple of weeks ago I even went back to my home town of Stratford in Ontario to speak at a fundraising event.

“So I hope to slowly advance and get more into that side of things,” Dan said.

Dan used to go on summer camps and canoeing trips in Northern Ontario as a child. He spent many summers in the Rockies and moved out here when he was just 20 years old in the early 1970s, with his wife Deb, after graduating from York University in Toronto.

They lived in Field, and Dan worked in several summer jobs at Emerald Lake and as part of the trail crew in Banff National Park, before he landed a job as an avalanche technician in Rogers Pass, which he did for three seasons.

The family even fitted their life around the ski season until Luke started high school, moving to Invermere from Christmas until Easter to be close to the slopes.

Continued on next page . . .

December 28, 2007

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

...Continued from last page.

Dan began taking courses in mountain guiding, and started as a helicopter ski guide in 1978 for Purcell Helicopter Skiing in Golden in 1978. He then went on to work for R.K. Heliski (formerly Panorama Heliskiing) in the early ’80s, where he stayed until 1998.

“This was great for me, because I could work heliskiing in the winter, then I could concentrate on my own projects in the summer, mostly as an independent guide,” Dan said.

Now Dan splits his time between heli-guiding for Canadian Mountain Holidays at 13 different areas around B.C., and working as an independent mountain guide around the world.

“Since the very beginning I’ve been interested in climbing. I’ve done some ski touring and ice climbing but the majority of my work through the winter has been heli-skiing.

“I’ve managed to cultivate different private clients, and I’ve been lucky to get some pretty good ones, usually a mixture of Candians and tourists,” he said.

Dan’s mountain guiding has taken him to major peaks in Pakistan, China, Kenya, Tanzania, Italy, Austria, France, Germany, the Alps, Peru, Ecuador, Chile and New Zealand.

He has also guided ski touring groups in Canada and Europe and led trekking groups in India, Africa and Patagonia.

Dan’s mountain guiding has involved taking out a variety of climbers, from just a few people to quite big groups. And he says the age range could go from 20 up to 75.

“I once took a lady who was 65 and a guy who was 75 up the Bugaboo Spire in the Bugaboos, which was pretty inspiring. And a lot of the time, it’s the people who make the trips worthwhile,” he said.

“Whenever you work for yourself you wonder where the next job is coming from. But as long as it works you’re OK,” he said.

Next year, Dan plans to take a group of climbers to Mount McKinley in Bolivia for a two week trip in May. He said the first part of the trip will involve climbing smaller mountains to get acclimatized before attempting Mount McKinlay itself.

So does Dan have a favourite mountain or location which was particularly memorable?

“I like them all,” he laughs.

“Over the years I’ve had a lot of fun climbing in Yosemite National Park in California, and I was pretty impressed with the Baltora region of Pakistan, where I went on an expedition in the eighties,” he explained.

Despite seeing a fair chunk of the world, there’s still a lot of places he’d like to visit, namely Baffin Island in Nunavut, Greenland and Scandinavia.

So does Dan have any regrets or wished he’d done anything differently?

He smiles and quotes Mark Twain, “In 20 years from now, you’ll be more disappointed about the things you didn’t do than by the things you did,” he said.

And I’d have to say, in my experience as a worldwide traveller, I completely agree with him.

For more information about Dan’s mountain trips visit www.mountainadventure.com.

MOUNTAIN GURU— Above, Dan Griffith stands on the summit of Mount Vinson in Antarctica, which was one of seven summits on every continent which he conquered in 2006. Left, Dan Griffith is pictured with Rex Pemberton at Mount Vinson in Antarctica. Rex is the youngest Australian to climb Mount Everest at 23 years old. Opposite page, Dan Griffith at base camp at Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia.

Photos courtesy of Dan Griffith

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

• SALES • SERVICE • CHEMICALS • WATER MAINTENANCE VISITS

Start the new year off right, more family time, health and happiness in your new spa.

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!

Purchase golf equipment for less!

End of year Clearance SALE Great deals on all clothing, merchandise and equipment 2008 Book of 10 Golf Passes on sale now for only $449.00 Golf clubs starting at $25.00 *Tax not included

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

Eco-Friendly Tips to Save You Some Green and Also Help the Environment New Year’s is a time to make a fresh start for the year ahead. Not sure what your resolution will be? Why not resolve to be more “green” in the New Year?

With the trend focusing on being more eco-friendly, these tips will not only make a difference for the environment and add some green in your wallet, but also make you feel good about yourself for keeping your resolution throughout the New Year.

Light Years Ahead Time to drag out your ladder and replace those hard-to-reach light bulbs?

Not anymore. It’s time to shed some light on the subject and make a change.

Compact fluorescent lights not only last ten times longer than incandescents, but also use 75 percent less energy.

Their cost of approximately $7 each may seem steep at first, but you will be light years ahead and save up to $60 in electricity per light over their lifetime.

from Still a few days left where we pay the taxes.

Open: Wednesday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm

Ph: (250) 342-0707 e-mail: klein@nucleus.com • www.tepapanui.com Invermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

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

Resolve to be green in the new year

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

Control the Flow According to Statistics Canada (www.statcan.ca), in 2004 the average daily residential water flow was 329 litres per capita.

By installing a water saving aerator in your bath faucet, you can reduce water flow from the standard 8.32 litres per minute to 5.7 litres per metre reducing overall consumption by 30 percent.

Here Comes the Sun During cooler months, keep your blinds or drapes open throughout the day to let in natural solar heat. This simple trick can reduce your heating bills by 10 percent.

Blocking out sunlight with exterior blinds or shutters during the summer can also cut your utilities by up to 33 percent.

Indulge in a Shower By switching from a bath to a shower, you not only save time, but also money. A typical ten minute bath requires 114 — 265 litres of water versus 95 litres under a 9.5 litres/minute showerhead.

Want to conserve even more resources? Install a water-saving showerhead. Unlike some low-flow showerheads that simply restrict the water flow, water-saving showerheads feature optimized spray formers that increase the velocity of the water streams hitting the body, treating you to a full, enveloping spray. Plus, with a flow of 6.62 litres/minute (compared to the industrystandard 9.5, you’ll feel good knowing that you’re using 30 percent less water and also reducing energy costs, as less hot water is used without sacrificing the shower’s performance.

Feel the Heat Have your furnace checked yearly to make sure it’s running properly and efficiently; and tuned every two years.

Not only will you save 10 percent on your heating bills, but you’ll also save approximately 2,500 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Dish Duty Although bottled water and disposable plates and cups may be enticing for easy use and clean-up, they aren’t so earth-friendly — heading straight from your trash into landfills. In fact, one billion plastic water bottles end up in landfills every year.

Instead, enjoy your food and beverages on washable serving wear! It’ll only take moments to load them into the dishwasher. Plus, running a full load in an Energy Star-rated dishwasher only uses 15 litres of water.

Take It Down a Degree According to the Alliance to Save Energy (www.ase.org), you can subtract 5 percent from your utility bill for every degree you lower your home’s temperature. Be sure to put on a sweater during the cooler months! Follow these tips and can enjoy a “green” New Year!

December 28, 2007

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

PIONEER ON THE ROAD—From left, Lila and Nestor Fodchuk on the island of Virgin Gorda Yaht during a Caribbean cruise; Gunner and Marion Anderson at the Science Centre in Toronto; Barb and Paul Northrup, with Fred Simon in the centre, at Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Their names will be entered in our 2007 Travel Photo contest.

F

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

Happy Holidays!

Jayne Magri

•

THIS IS IT FOLKS!!

2007 GMC Canyon

2007 Silverado LT Crew Cab 1500 4x4

342-3160

5.3 V8, auto, incl Z71, trailer tow, automatic and much, much more! Stk#12530 $43,185 MSRP Factory &/or - $6,296 Dealer Rebates $36,259

4 cyl, 5 spd, air, am/fm stereo, 5 year/160,000 km warranty and more. Stk#11687 $22,505 MSRP Factory &/or - $4,506 Dealer Rebates $17,999

Less Minimum Wish & Win Award - $1,000

Less Minimum Wish & Win Award - $1,000

NOW

We wish you Health & Happiness for the New Year 2008!

688-0213

CRANBROOK SPECIALTY FOOTWEAR

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

www.meridianmortgagesolutions.com

Bill Rainbow Mortgage Broker (250) 342-3453

THE PIONEER

The valley’s only locally owned, locally operated newspaper

2007 Sierra SLT 1500 Crewcab 4x4

YOU CAN !

WIN A CAR 5.3L, auto trans, buckets, loaded, side curtain airbags, rear park assist, and so much more! Stk#11414 $47,090 MSRP Factory &/or - $7,650 Dealer Rebates $40,325 Less Minimum Wish & Win Award - $1,000

WOW

$15,000 + tax

ONLY

2007 Silverado 1500 LT Crewcab 4x4

ase No purch necessary to play

Minim Awar um d

$1,00

0

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5.3L, auto, leather, side curtain airbags, all the necessary toys! Stk#11577 MSRP $49,070 Factory &/or Dealer Rebates - $7,533 $41,537 Less Minimum Wish & Win Award - $1,000

HUGE SAVINGS

$39,325 + tax

$40,537 + tax

GREAT DEALS ON 08’S TOO! 2008 Sierra 1500 Crewcab 4x4

New

*After applying minimum Wish & Win Award of $1,000

2008 Pontiac Wave Sedan

2008 Sierra SLE 2500 Ext Cab 4x4

4 cyl., 5 speed, air, tilt, CD, spoiler & so much more. Stk#12649.

MSRP $15,635

6.0L, auto, loaded including power driver’s seat, dual zone air, remote start, steering wheel audio controls, EZ lift tailgate, HD trailering package and much much more. Stk#12366 MSRP $47,355

!

V8, auto, air, tilt, cruise, CD, pwr locks, OnStar, and much much more. Stk#12466 MSRP $36,445

ONLY $31,399 + tax Great rates, products and service

SOLD

$35,259 + tax

323 Kootenay Street North, Cranbrook (250) 426-4284

No more searching for the lowest mortgage rates…

ONLY 2 ‘07’s NEW LEFT !

SANTA’S SPECIAL Or Lease for

$14,399

$199/

month plus taxes

5% GST on all new vehicles!

CHECK US OUT AT www.chaletgm.com Email: chaletgm@shawlink.ca

•

+ tax after applying minimum Wish & Win Award of $1,000 based on a 60 month term at 3.9% on approved credit with $500 down.T/P $12,4400 + taxes = $13,932.80. Purchase option

ONLY $39,899 + tax

*After applying minimum Wish & Win Award of $1,000

Effective immediately!

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 • 21

December 28, 2007

VILLAGE OF CANAL FLATS NOTICE OF BY-ELECTION BY VOTING PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY given to the electors of the Village of Canal Flats that a by- election by voting is necessary to elect a Councillor for a term commencing January 14, 2008 and terminating December 2008, and that the persons nominated as candidates and for whom votes will be received are: COUNCILLOR – One (1) to be elected Surname

Usual Names

Jurisdiction of Residence

MORIN WOODBURY

Emile Bruce

Canal Flats BC Canal Flats BC

GENERAL VOTING DAY will be open to qualified electors of the Village of Canal Flats on Saturday, January 12, 2008 between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm at the following location: Canal Flats Community Hall - 8909 Dunn Street Elector Registration If you are not on the Village of Canal Flats list of electors, you may register at the time of voting by completing the required application form available at the voting place. To register you must meet the following qualifications: • 18 years of age or older • Canadian citizen • resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately preceding voting day • resident of OR registered owner of real property in the Village of Canal Flats for at least 30 days immediately preceding voting day, and • not otherwise disqualified by law from voting.

Resident electors will be required to produce 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification must prove both residency and identity.

Non-resident property electors must produce a non-resident property elector certificate and 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity.

Non-resident property elector certificates can be obtained from the Administrator or Deputy Director of Corporate Services at the Village of Canal Flats office during regular office hours prior to 4:30 pm on Friday, January 11, 2008. On advance and general voting days, certificates can be obtained from those same individuals at the voting location during voting hours.

THE PIONEER GOES ON A HONEYMOON—Shelly Harris and Brent Jaliska took The Pioneer when they honeymooned recently in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. See more travel photos throughout this issue.

Advance Voting Opportunities Advance voting will be open at the Village Office, 8853 Grainger Road, Canal Flats BC on Thursday, January 3, 2008 and Thursday, January 10, 2008 between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm each day. The only persons permitted to vote at an Advance Voting Opportunity are those who, being duly qualified electors, sign a statement that: • the elector expects to be absent from the Village of Canal Flats on general voting day, • the elector, for reasons of conscience, will be unable to vote on general voting day, • the elector will be unable to attend a voting place on general voting day for reasons beyond their control, • the elector has a physical disability or is a person whose mobility is impaired, • the elector is a candidate or candidate representative, or • the elector is an election official.

Gloria Perry Chief Election Officer

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

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 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

CLUB TOWING

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

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357 • POOLS • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • FIREPLACES • BBQ¡S • HEATING • VENTILATION • AIR CONDITIONING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

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

688-0213

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

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

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

342-6612

Lawn and Yard Maintenance Sunrise To Sunset Service

Valley Wide

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

by Leanne

• Manicures • Pedicures • Gel Nails

Specializing in Single Family Homes, Multi-Residential and Additions.

Contact: Paul Aubrecht Invermere (250) 342-0482 Calgary (403) 874-0483

By Appointment Only

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 Make it look like you’re home when you’re not!

342-0450 Kirk & Karen Davis Invermere BC

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

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

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

Pine Ridge Cutters • •

Custom Home Design

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 • 23

December 28, 2007

HERE TO SERVE YOU cool to be a loser!

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

Now Open 24/7

HEAT PUMPS, DUCT WORK & FURNACES

What are you weighting for?

Women’sPACE

Sales and Service

Call today 342.1167

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

Complete Automotive Repairs

• Topsoil • Sand • Gravel

• Stamping • Exposed •

VJ (Butch) Bishop

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Owner/Operator

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

Structural Integration Deep Tissue Bodywork Movement Education – Dialogue

H E L L E R W O RK

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

INVERMERE GLASS LTD. •Auto • Home • Commercial • Mirrors • Shower Doors • 27 years glass experience

Jean-Luc Cortat Certified Hellerwork Practioner Renaissance Wellness Centre Box 185 / 505 – 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 342-2535

Bob Mashford, President Phone: (250) 341-7188 or (403) 923-2427 Fax: (403) 720-5789 mrbibsinsulating@hotmail.com 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

orat iv ec D e a i b m u l oC • Acid StainingC•oncrete

Jeff Watson

Telephone: 342-3659

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

Eric J. Friesen

Lambert

342-1775

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

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

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)

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

Pioneer on the road

Need Blinds? Best Quality Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

As expected, warmer climes seem to be the theme for winter as The Pioneer continues its trek around the world. In our ďŹ nal installment for 2007, here are two more from between the Tropics. Top left, Gordie Morneau and Shawna Honigman in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; and below left, Nicholas and Livia Stuber in Longboat Key, Florida.

The Pioneer’s 2007 Travel Photo Contest winds up this week. Any remaining photos submitted by December 31st will appear in future issues.

Our draw will be made from among all the photos sent to us in 2007, and the winner announced within the next two weeks.

The winner will receive two free nights at the Fantasyland Hotel in Edmonton, courtesy of Travel World in Invermere.

Drop in for a visit at: Radium Christian Fellowship’s New Prayer Centre which is now open on most Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm At: #4 - 7553 Main Street West Radium Hot Springs, Phone 347-9937

OBJECTIVE, CREATIVE,

INFORMATIVE! 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 N E W S PA P E R

E-mail: upioneer@telus.net Phone: (250) 341-6299

HERE TO SERVE YOU Avion

CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORS

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

INVERMERE

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

Hi - Heat

COLUMBIA VALLEY

Construction Ltd.

HEAD OFFICE

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

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.

TAXI

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

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

4JODF

%POOB )B[FMBBS

1)0/& '"9

50-- '3&& )&"5

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

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"-&4Ę´)*)&"5*/46-"5*/( $0.

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

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

WINDERMERE 342-6805

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

December 28, 2007

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THIS SEASON...

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$5

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FT

$4 S 8/

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$3

...ON FERNIE’S RISING PROPERTY VALUES!

Property values in Fernie increased 14% in the past year, and continue to rise.

Purchase a Silver Rock Condominium this

Fernie #5 of the Top 25 Resorts in North America.

winter and watch your investment go uphill

$338/sqft (avg) - Best Value in the Rockies.

faster than you can ski down!

$30,000 Furnishing Package Included!

Less than 38 units available - FINAL PHASE!

.D%POBME "WF 'FSOJF #$ t t JOGP!TJMWFSSPDLDPOEPT DPN

www.silverrockcondos.com

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Edgewater Volunteer Fire Department New Years Eve Dance. $20 /Person Monday, December 31st , 2007.

8:30 pm – 1:00 am.

Edgewater Community Hall Buffet Dinner and Prizes.

Tickets available at Pips or call 347-6981.

STORAGE NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climate controlled units.

Call 342-3637

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE Office OR Storage 2 units approx. 10’ x 12’ Each $125.00/month 342-0603, 341-5845.

SHARED ACCOMMADATION Jan. 1st $600.00, including utilities, internet, cable, W/D. Room in big, clean, shared house. Call 342-0420.

Roommate wanted to share house. Female, N/S, N/P, in Fairmont, 345-2155.

SUITE FOR RENT CONTRACTORS: Self contained cabins by the week or month.

(250) 345-6365 Fairmont Bungalows.

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

SUITE FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

1 bdrm, 2bdrm & studio apartments available immediately in Radium. Contact Don or Susan Miller 342-6908 or 342-3709 (evenings). Kootenay Rentals.

FOR RENT

Edgewater house and garage on .75 acre corner lot. 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath, call 250-347-9321.

200 cm Morotto Nomex skate skis, never used, ($600 new) $250.00. 150 cm Swix skate poles $50.00, 342-1354.

2 bdrm walk - out in Invermere, $1,100.00 includes utilities.

Available Jan. 1st , 688-7798.

2 bedroom suite, unfurnished long term, couple or single preferred, available January 1. $1,200 incl. heating

ACREAGE FOR SALE

Black Forest Heights

CONDO FOR RENT

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.

Condo for rent in Invermere. 2 bdrm, close to amenities, N/S, N/P, $900.00 plus utilities and DD, mature individuals, 3426255.

HOUSE FOR RENT Townhouse for rent in Black Forest Village. N/P, N/S. Available immediately. $1,150.00 plus utilities, 341-1400.** 3 bdrm, plus den, for rent in Pineridge Estates. Close to schools on a quite cul-de-sac. $1600/month plus utilities.

Prefer family, N/S. Fully furnished games room. Avail.

Feb 1, 2008. Call 250-342-5511 or 250-688-2277.

Short/long term rental.

Furnished Executive House, 1,800 sq. ft. N/S, 3 bdrm, Oligvy Wills area, 403.589.5599.

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

Burton snowboard 153 cm, K2 Beautiful treed R1 lot in the new bindings $225.00. Avalanche gated Estates at Copper Point. board, bindings 133cm, ½ acre with panoramic views $100.00. Volkl skis, bindings, of mountains and “the Ridge” boots, $150.00, 342-0554. golf course. Available May 2008. $275,000.00, 342-9841.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

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

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

Top soil, call Elkhorn Ranch at 342-0617.

HOUSE FOR SALE

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

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

Office furniture, desks, chairs, tables. Reasonable offers accepted, call 342-1177.

HOUSE FOR SALE

NEW LISTING 4693 COLUMERE RD., FAIRMONT A View to dream of! You will think you’re in Heaven as you take in the stunning views of the emerald green waters of Columbia Lake. The whole family will love being a minute stroll to the beach, marina, park and tennis court. This 3 year cottage has the whole family enjoying the good life. Make it your life. MLS # NEW #08797

699,000

$

Rockies West Realty Ken Becker Sales Consultant

230 Laurier Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 Bus: 250.342.5599 • Fax: 250.342.5559

2002 Jeep Liberty Limited Edition V6, fully loaded, 4x4, 85,000 kms

$16,500

250-432-5211

VEHICLES FOR SALE

$10,000,000 in vehicle inventory.

Go to

www.cranbrookdodge.com

to view complete inventory.

SNOWMOBILES FOR SALE

2007 Yamaha Phazer Mtn. Lt. 600 km. $7,500.00 OBO. Call 342-8332.

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

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

December 28, 2007

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS SERVICES

CAREERS

CAREERS

TOTAL HEATING SYSTEMS Heat Pumps Furnaces Duct work 342-1167

Store Clerks needed. Must be enthusiastic and enjoy people. $13/hour, store discounts and advancement opportunities.

Apply in person to Invermere Petro-Canada.

Full / part – time positions available at Horsethief Creek Pub / Radium Liquor Store. Apply in person, or by fax 347-9987, or email horsethiefcreekpub@ telus.net.

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

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

PAINTING – Interior and Exterior (spring). Reliable, excellent service. Call Bill for an appointment, 342-7329.

CAREER WANTED Project Construction Manager 20 years experience Seeking Permanent Position Within Invermere District Available mid Jan. 250-341-7325

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.

Framers/Finishing Carpenters required in Edgewater.

Permanent work, $20.00 $30.00 per hour or piece work.

Call Cliff, 403-617-9402 or email loglife@telusplanet.net.

Employment Resources for the Valley 1313 – 7th Ave • 250.341.6889 • cvec@cyberlink.bc.ca The Government of Canada has contributed funding for this initiative.

Grizzly Mountain Grill in Radium

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

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

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 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.

SPOT THE DEALS

Pioneer Classieds

is now accepting applicants for:

FIRST COOKS AND BREAKFAST COOKS Positions are opening at our various Food and Beverage outlets at the Resort including Mountainside and Riverside. Year round employment is available.

We are a four season, 4.5 star Resort with FREE Golfing, Swimming, Skiing among other benefits for our staff. Staff accommodation is available.

Applicants interested in a fantastic Resort work opportunity where you will gain valuable experience as well as enjoy our great recreational benefits, please forward your resume to: Human Resources Fax: 250-345-6616 Email: magdye@fhsr.com

Call 341-6299 to place your classified.

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.

To learn more about Columbia Valley Real Estate Pick up your copy of

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online at:

www.columbiavalleypioneer. com E-mail:

upioneer@telus.net Phone:

341-6299

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

Your Pioneer arrives each week special delivery thanks to

David & Florence Raven

We couldn’t do it without them!

N E W S PA P E R

PIONEER ON THE ROAD—Pictured here at San Pedro Airport on Abergris Cay off mainland Belize, Christine Bay spent a week swimming with the sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve earlier this month.

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

Please Don’t Feed the Wildlife

The District of Invermere cautions everyone that feeding wildlife, whether directly or indirectly, is never a good idea. Problems from wildlife often increase with the availability of food, and feeding could result in an attack, damaged property, and often the death of the animal.

Animals that become accustomed to feed will expand their activities to find more feed and can damage fences and structures, threatening human safety in the process. Feeding by well meaning people puts the animals at unnecessary risk and often disrupts the natural survival instincts of the animal.

• • • •

Why “Handouts” Hurt

Wild animals lose their natural fear of humans when they are fed. Such animals tend to become a nuisance and those that grow too aggressive may have to be destroyed.

When people provide food, wildlife populations increase to levels the natural environment cannot sustain. This unstable situation is often followed by animal starvation or by outbreaks of disease.

Wild animals have specialized natural diets, and they can become malnourished or die if given the wrong foods. Because young animals need the proper nutrients to grow, they are particularly vulnerable.

Feeding wild animals creates problems that affect the larger ecosystem. Species that tolerate people gain a competitive edge over species that don’t, disrupting the natural balance.

You can best help our wild animals by not feeding them and by keeping your stored food and trash out of their reach.

Thank you for your support!

NOTICE OF OFFICE CLOSURE

Looking for a great volunteer opportunity to serve your community?

IInvermere Council is looking for citizens with a history of community involvement and a desire to participate within the community development process. Ten excellent opportunities are available to serve your community for up to a three year term, to run concurrent with the Council term.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

Be part of the Advisory Planning Committee that will advise Council on matters referred to it by Council regarding land use, community planning or proposed bylaws and permits, and to advise on other general policy matters respecting land use in the District.

Or The Advisory Design Panel that will review development permits applications for new development or redevelopment submitted under the Official Community Plan for the District.

HOW TO APPLY:

Citizens interested in participating on either of these Committees are invited to obtain an application form from the municipal office and forward the completed application form to: Colleen Goodey, Corporate Officer District of Invermere PO Box 339 , 914 8th Avenue Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 cgoodey@invermere.net The deadline for the submission of all applications to the municipal office is January 15th, 2008. Application forms are also available on the District of Invermere website at www.invermere.net

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

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

December 28, 2007

Twins fined after house party ends in assault

By Pioneer Staff Identical twin brothers Glenn and Gordon Wilson look so much alike, it was difficult to know who was punching whom in an incident back in August 2005.

Judge Ron Webb at the Adult Criminal Court in Invermere heard that Glenn Wilson was charged with breaking and entering a property and committing assault.

His brother Gordon Wilson was charged with breaking and entering a property, committing assault, failing to appear in court and breach of undertaking.

The twins are aged 21.

The court heard the incident occurred on August 24, 2005, after a house party in Canal Flats.

Both defendants were at the party, but later showed up at another house in Canal Flats to settle a dispute.

They knocked on the bedroom window of 17year-old Kyle Schuler, who was 14 at the time, at around 1:45 a.m.

Kyle lives with his grandparents, Robert and Marilyn Schuler, who were upstairs sleeping when the disturbance broke out.

Crown Prosecutor Lynal Doerksen questioned witness Kyle Schuler about the night in question.

Kyle confirmed that he had been at a party earlier that night and had consumed a couple of drinks, but considered himself pretty sober.

He returned to his grandparents’ house with a friend to play video games in his basement bedroom, when he heard a knock at the window.

Kyle said the window was open as it was summer, and Glenn Wilson entered his room through the window. “He was accusing me of stealing alcohol from the party. Gordon was outside as well, and they were both pretty drunk, because I remember that Glenn was slurring his words,” Kyle told the court.

There was a knock on the door, and Gordon and another friend entered the room.

“Glenn and Gordon were talking to me angrily, saying that I stole booze.

“We were all arguing and my friend was trying to get everybody to leave. I hadn’t given Glenn or Gordon any permission to be in the house,” Kyle said.

His grandfather, Robert Schuler, came downstairs to see what all the noise was about.

He told the Wilson brothers to leave, but was

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

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE BYLAW AMENDMENT - EDGEWATER The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board of Directors is considering an application by George and Jeanette Lautrup to amend the Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw. If approved, the amendment will change the designation of the subject property to accommodate a proposed eight-site RV park and the existing golf course. The property is located at 5575 Highway 95 in the Edgewater area as shown on the attached map.

Bylaw No. 2023 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Upper Columbia Valley Zoning Bylaw No. 900, 1992 – Amendment Bylaw No. 205, 2007 (Edgewater / Lautrup)” will change the designation for: • part of Lots 8 and 9, District Lot 353 Kootenay District, Plan 1962 from C-2, Service Commercial Zone to RES-2, Resort Recreation Zone and; • part of Lots 8 and 9, District Lot 353 Kootenay District, Plan 1962 from C-2, Service Commercial Zone to RES-1, Recreation Accommodation Zone.

The public hearing will be held at:

EDGEWATER COMMUNITY CENTRE 4818 Selkirk Avenue, Edgewater BC THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2008 at 4:00 pm

The Board has delegated the holding of this hearing to the Directors for Electoral Area G and Electoral Area F. If you believe that your interest in prop-erty is affected by the proposed Bylaw, you may prior to the hearing: • inspect the Bylaw and supporting information at the RDEK office in Cranbrook from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays; • mail, fax or email written submis-sions to the addresses/numbers shown above; or • present written and/or verbal submis-sions at the hearing.

SUBMISSIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING All written submissions are public information pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This notice is not an interpreta-tion of the Bylaw. For more information, contact Jean Terpsma, Planning Technician, at 250 489-0314 or toll free at 1-888-478-7335.

Andrew McLeod, Manager Planning & Development Services December 7, 2007

knocked to the ground. It is not clear which brother pushed him down. Kyle said he and Gordon were throwing a few punches but he stopped to go and help his grandfather.

“Glenn and my grandpa were wrestling on the ground, so I broke free from Gordon to go and pull Glenn off,” Kyle said.

The twins eventually ended up leaving the house.

Buffy Blakley, defending Glenn Wilson, asked witness Kyle Schuler which Wilson brother hit him, but he said he couldn’t tell as they look so much alike.

Rick Strahl, defending Gordon Wilson, pointed out that neither witness could tell which twin was which.

Judge Webb said the evidence from both witnesses could not establish which twin got in a scuffle with which Schuler. But it was clear that both twins had unlawfully entered the Schuler property.

Judge Webb found both Wilsons guilty of breaking and entering and committing assault. On December 18th, he sentenced each twin to a $250 fine plus a $50 victim impact surcharge. Gordon Wilson was also ordered to pay a further $50 fine plus a $25 victim impact surcharge.

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 2007

Turkey noodle soup

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

4 c. turkey stock or canned chicken broth 3 c. diced peeled yams 1 tbsp. green curry paste 1/4 tsp. salt 1 package Asian noodle soup mix 3 c. cubed cooked turkey 1 c. diced tomato 1 can coconut milk 3/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro Combine stock, yams, green curry paste and salt in a Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until yams are tender, about 10 minutes. Remove seasoning packet from soup mix; reserve for another use. Crumble noodles from soup mix and add to soup mixture. Add turkey and tomato. Simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender, about three minutes.

Stir in coconut milk and cook just until heated through. Do not boil. Stir in cilantro and serve.

Turkey salad sandwiches

Bad driving habits will soon cost you more.

1/2 c. mayonnaise 2 tbsp. chopped drained pickled ginger 1 tbsp. soy sauce 2 tsp. wasabi paste 3 c. chopped cooked turkey 1/2 c. thinly-sliced green onions 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro 2 c. baby spinach 8 crusty buns, halved

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

IF

YOU’RE LOCAL , YOU GET IT !

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Combine mayonnaise, ginger, soy sauce and wasabi. Add turkey, onions and cilantro; stir until combined. Place spinach on bottom halves of buns; top with turkey mixture. Cover with top halves of buns.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

December 28, 2007

FAITH

Christmas isn’t “past,” it is “passed” to others

By Jared Enns, Pastor Lake Windermere Alliance Church The presents have all been unwrapped, the turkey is down to a few leftovers and some of you have already taken down the tree.

The family gatherings and office parties for Christmas have all come and gone.

The “Boxing Day Sale” has come and gone and the line-ups to return gifts that weren’t exactly hoped for are longer than those for making purchases.

What has happened in the few days since Christmas? The big shebang is all over and done with, until next year. After the New Year’s Eve Celebrations on Monday, we’ll enter the long stretch through January until the next event. We can officially say that Christmas is “past.”

I think we miss the point of Christmas if that is all we think it is. We can come through the season of hustle and bustle and feel drained, when we don’t have the right perspective about Christmas.

God didn’t intend for us to come through Christmas as an event to put behind us every year. God’s direction for everything that took place illustrates that His story isn’t finished yet.

Christmas is about being “passed” to people who have yet to know the true meaning of Christmas.

The story of the wise men, though often misunderstood to be part of the Christmas Story, actually takes place at least a year after Jesus birth…

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”

When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.

“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.”

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.

He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.

And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”(Matthew 2:1-13) God’s gift of Christ at Christmas didn’t mean that God was done with His gift. He led the Magi to bring gifts that would take care of Jesus and Joseph and Mary, when they fled to Egypt. God provides continued care when He gives a gift of love.

The message of Christmas is one of love. A love so great that only one gift would suffice to convey that love. A gift born out of a desire to restore a relationship, to mend a separation, that wasn’t God’s fault, but could only be made right again by His actions.

John 3:16-17 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” The message of Christmas is meant to be “passed” on so that everyone has the opportunity to know that God loves them.

As you plan for the New Year, and even as you review what has taken place this past year, maybe there are some situations in your life that could use a measure of God’s love.

Was Christmas a trying time this year because of family situations? Maybe your family dynamic has changed through a birth or a death, a divorce or separation, moving away from home, or just being far from home. What measure of God’s love needs to be “passed” your way, and what measure of love needs to be “passed” on to others by you?

We may celebrate the gift of Christ at Christmas, but the gift of love that God gave is to be “passed” on the whole year through.

Valley Churches LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, Dec. 30th, 10:30 a.m. Celebration Sunday Worship and Life Instruction: “Go for Godly Goals.”

Communion wil be served.

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

Pastor Jared Enns • 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535 WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY Dec. 30th: 10:30 a.m. Morning Worship Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644 VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY 10 a.m. Sunday: Children’s Church during the message part of the service.

Highway 93/95, 1 km north of Windermere • 342-9511

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Dec. 29th: 7 p.m. Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere Dec. 30th: 9 a.m. Invermere, 11 a.m. Radium Dec. 31st: 7 p.m. Invermere Jan. 1st: 10 a.m. Radium, noon Canal Flats Father Jim McHugh • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 342-6167 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE 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.

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.

President Grant Watkins • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 345-0079

Invermere Christian Supplies Invermere Christian Supplies

www.invermerechristiansupplies.com

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

HOW TO MAKE MONEY IN 2008 Rare full duplex. Capacity for more development. Close to town shopping, activities & recreations Investment Property &/or Mortgage Helper

$449,000 MLS# K166061

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

December 28, 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

Room To Grow

Jan Klimek 342-1195

John McCarthy 342-1758

Andy Smith

Bryan Hookenson

342-1709

341-1266

Relax in Radium

Rob Rice 341-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice 342-5935

Paul Glassford 341-1395

Heaven in Akiskinook

Jill Hall 688-5675

Black Forest duplex on very large lot with no one behind you. Nice garage for everything. Work shop, large open concept main floor, with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Large oak kitchen opens onto the eating area. Lower level has 1 large bedroom, full bathroom, woodstove and great rec room. MLS#K167033

Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Radium Hot Springs from you own brand new townhome. Take advantage of the fee simple ownership of this 3 bedroom 2 ½ bathroom home. Close to Radium amenities, including natural hot pools, golf courses and shopping. MLS#K163161

Wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo tucked in the trees with a lake view from the upper balcony. Private beach, boat launch and marina, recreation centre and beautifully manicured grounds. Fully furnished and ready now! MLS#K167031

$319,000

$374,900+gst

499,900

Beautiful Panorama Condo

Beautiful Views

A Getaway Property

Beautiful condo located in Panorama Mountain Village. Unit sleeps six and is finished to a high level. Central location close to all the Village amenities.

MLS#K165387

Beautiful views and a once in a lifetime building site opportunity. 8.64 acre parcel, irrigation, water license in place. Located on Toby Hill Road. Come build your dream home! MLS#K162278

Large 0.723 acre lot in the quiet community of Crooked Tree Estates. Small, gated neighbourhood located between Windermere and Fairmont. No building commitment! Take a look at it now. MLS#K166789

$299,900

$575,000

$549,900

Location Plus

Panorama

Great New Price

One bedroom condo in Glacier Lodge at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Ski in.

Ski out. Located in the heart of the village. Tremendous views with all the amenities. Excellent value! MLS#K160766

Don’t miss out on this one. The only Phase 1 Lookout Unit available. Luxury in the upper village at Panorama Mountain Village. Three bedrooms, a view to die for, comfortable and classy. NO GST. Exciting new ¼ ownership townhomes. Fully furnished, including granite counters. MLS#K151427

The best 2 bedroom value at Panorama, end unit, ski hill and pool view. Large bedrooms and living area. New carpet. Panorama Springs is the ideal family ski resort location. Right by the pools! MLS#K115036

$173,000

$349,900+gst

$249,900+gst Gables Motel Less than 1 block to Kootenay National Park. This is a favorite motel for people wanting to just walk to the world famous hot spring pools. Lots of room for expansion, 17 units plus beautiful 1000 sq ft, 3 bedroom owner’s residence.

MLSK#3700099

$1,249,000+gst

Best of the Best!

TThis wonderfully decorated, fully-furnished two bedroom unit at Copperside in Lakeview Meadows is in the most asked about community in Invermere.

Includes granite counter tops, air conditioning, hardwood flooring, two large decks and many more extras. MLS#K167027

$539,000