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The Columbia

March 28, 2008

Valley

P IONEER

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

KAIN CENTENNIAL

15 FLOWER LADY

20 JUST CHECKING

Farewell, Frances Frances Dunne, postmaster at Spillimacheen for the last 56 years, gets some last-minute advice from long-time friend Don Beddie at her retirement party. See Page 2 for more.

Photo by Brian Geis

25

are you an

unsung hero?

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

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VALLEY NEWS

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SPILLI PIONEERS—Five of Spillimacheen’s old guard turned out for Frances Dunne’s retirement party. Ms. Dunne retired after 56 years behind the counter of the Spilli Post Office. Pictured here, left to right: Frances Dunne, Susan Stewart, Frances’s sister Betty Mykeityn, Mary Yadernuk and Don Beddie in the back, all octogenerians.

Photo by Brian Geis

Canada’s longest-serving postmaster retires

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Canada’s longest-serving postmaster, 85-year-old Frances Dunne of Spillimacheen, retired last week after 56 years behind the counter.

On Saturday, Ms. Dunne, left her childhood home—her older sister, Betty Mykeityn, behind the wheel—on a two-day drive to Coquitlam, where she will live out her days.

“It’s horrible. I mean, that’s home,” Ms. Dunne explained, “but the doctor says I’m not to be by myself anymore.”

Frances grew up in Spillimacheen. During World War Two she enlisted in the Canadian Women’s Army Corp as a wireless operator and kept the position as a civilian in Edmonton after the war.

In 1952, she returned to Spillimacheen to care for her aging parents and took over the post office a year later.

Once home to hundreds of families, back in the 1950s, when the Giant Mascot Mine was producing about 500 tons of ore a day on nearby Spillimacheen

Mountain, the post office serves about 50 families today.

The postmaster general, she said, declined to force any of the senior postmasters to retire.

“When I got to be 65, the post office sent a letter every three months asking if I planned to retire,” Ms. Dunne explained. “I’d always write, ‘No,’ on the letter and send it back.”

“After a while, I got fed up and wrote, ‘No and I’m not going to die, either!”

The letters, she said, stopped coming.

At age 85, she finds herself having to leave the two-room post office with a wood stove for heat and a book rack that serves as the unofficial town library and the little stone house on the highway where she and her sister grew up.

Although the post office didn’t react to the announcement, Morley Winnick, owner of the local honey business called Beeland, hosted a retirement party at the the Spillimacheen Trading Post Thursday.

Ms. Dunne said she is gone for good, but will return for visits whenever she can. Assistant Postmaster Liz Williams will take over as interim postmaster.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

March 28, 2008

VALLEY NEWS

Southend neighbours debate zoning variance for commercial development

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Two dozen neighbours of a proposed commercial development on Invermere’s south side met last week to debate the zoning variance necessary for the project to proceed.

The subject property lies in the northeast corBarry Brown-John ner of proponent Barry Brown-John’s Westside Park development, just southeast of Cardel Resort’s West 15 development.

Both Westside Park and West 15 serve a demand for affordable or attainable housing in Invermere, and the proposed commercial development would be the first outside Invermere’s commercial core.

District of Invermere Chief Administrator Chris Prosser said the zoning variance Mr. Brown-John seeks would allow for the inclusion of one storey of residential units above a first storey of commercial space.

The second effect of the proposed amendment, Mr. Prosser explained, is to expand the permitted neighbourhood commercial uses to include: child care, business and professional offices, beauty and barber shops, and retail commercial applications.

The variance would also allow a height of up to nine metres, a chief concern among neighbours of the property.

The height restriction, traffic concerns and the kinds of businesses the development will attract topped the list of stakeholder concerns.

Westside Park resident Stuart Tutty said he worried that a convenience storey would have people “hanging out” in the neighbourhood, but was otherwise agreeable to the zoning.

An increase in traffic and the lack of available parking are conditions that Westside Park resident

Mike Allison says are already issues. He did not, he said, expect a high-rise building to go up when he purchased the property.

Tammy Ensign, the first owner of a home in Westside Park, said the ten percent of owners who are parttime residents create the problems.

Ms. Ensign said a big, huge building might attract more partiers, public drinking, and vandalism by outsiders. “Development is a part of life,” she said, “but how much is too much?”

Mr. Brown-John noted that the plan for the building was rotated to keep traffic out of Westside Park and that municipal planners requested the 1.5-metre height increase.

His intent, he said, is to provide attainable housing and that he is in discussion with the local housing authority. Combined with pedestrian traffic from Cardel Resorts West 15 development which includes price-controlled housing, traffic and parking shouldn’t be a problem, he said.

The public comments go to council for review.

All eyes are watching Lake Windermere

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff It’s a big waiting game for the thousands of people who bought raffle tickets to guess when the ice will begin to thaw and break on Lake Windermere.

Everyone’s eyes are on the lake as the weather warms up, especially the area being judged, which stretches from Fort Point in Invermere down to Althamer Bridge.

The Lake Windermere District Lions Club organised the Ice Out Draw 2008, which is turning into a huge guessing game.

Lion Rick Hoar explained the raffle was original-

ly held back in the mid eighties, then the Invermere Judo Club did it for 10 years, but it hasn’t been done since the mid nineties.

So the Lions decided to start it up again, and all proceeds will go to Lake Windermere District Lions Club school scholarship fund, the Citizenship Award and the Dry Grad ceremony for David Thompson Secondary School students.

Lions members sold tickets at various locations around town in January and February, and tickets were also sold by David Thompson Secondary School grads.

Rick explained the person who is closest to the date and time the ice starts to melt will win

$1,000.

“I think it’s going to be a little while yet before we see the ice melting. There needs to be a break in the ice to really get it moving.

“We’ve been monitoring it regularly, and it could be a couple of days, weeks or it could even be next week when it melts.

“We’ve had a great response to the tickets, and we’ve sold around 2,700. Most people have gone for the last week of March or the first week of April.

“I’m not sure how much money we’ve made, as we still have more tickets to pick up and some people made donations but it’s been very well supported,” Rick said.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

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Toby Theatre at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and are available at the door. columbiavalleyarts.com/cinefest The 2008 Cinefest Series is proudly sponsored by:

We print for the Valley and beyond!

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

RCMP proud of doing a good job in the province 15,000; • 730,345 people in rural provincial areas The RCMP police a grand total of 3,099,155 citizens in There are some interesting the province, compared with figures of note posted on the the 1,208,064 citizens policed provincial government’s webby Municipal Police Forces. site about the cost of policing The cost associated to around the Province of British RCMP policing services is Columbia. shown to be markedly lower The statistics refer to the than our municipal force coundocument “2006 Police Reterparts, due to the cost-sharsources in British Columbia,” ing between the federal and which can be located under the provincial governments under title “Police Services Branch” the terms of the Provincial Poon the government website. lice Services Agreement.

The figures tell a story of According to the report, the RCMP delivering services “the province pays 70 percent to the general public at a very of the contract costs while the fair rate in comparison to the federal government pays the Independent Municipal DeRCMP Staff-Sgt. Doug Pack remaining 30 percent.” tachments.

This occurs when the popHere, in the southeast portion of the province, the RCMP have the responsibil- ulation center is under 15,000 citizens. Communiity and the fortune of being the safekeepers of almost ties with over 15,000 citizens pay 90 percent of the policing costs, while the federal government pays 10 all those communities within the region.

We feel a strong sense of pride in the policing ser- percent.

RCMP municipal cost per-capita is $170 for popvices we provide and are encouraged that the statistics show the true nature of policing costs for the vast ulations over 15,000, and $146 for populations between $5,000 and 15,000. Municipal Police Departnumber of communities we serve.

The 2006 report reveals that, in British Columbia, ment cost per-capita is $273.

For a breakdown of policing costs per community the RCMP provide policing to: • 2,036,569 people in communities of 15,000 and you can visit the government website at: http://www. pssg.gov.bc.ca/police_services/publications/index. larger; • 332,241 people in communities of 5,000 to htm.

Submitted by RCMP StaffSgt. Doug Pack, Invermere Detachment

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

March 28, 2008

Swansea Road home owners balk at water and sewer costs

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Residents along Swansea Road, one of many communities on the east side of Lake Windermere that will consider similar deals this year, soured on talk of hooking into Windermere Water and Sewer after learning what it would cost.

Swansea Road resident Howard Hayward said the costs contained in a proposal presented to his neighbors last week—a preliminary estimate of $23,000 per home—was “out of line.”

“I think everybody is in favor of the sewer, but nobody likes the pricing,” Mr. Hayward commented. “Too many of us on that street are contractors.”

Windermere Water and Sewer Company Chief Financial Officer Paul Partlo said he will continue to crunch the numbers.

News

“We’re aware of the pricing concern,” Mr. Partlo explained. “Their biggest challenge on the Swansea area pricing is the small population over which the costs can be spread. There’s definitely an element of price negotiation, but we’ll revisit our pricing assumptions.”

The negotiation is the latest in a series of deals that could get the communities on the east side of Lake Windermere off their septic fields by the end of next year.

Regional District Chief Financial Officer Shawn Tomlin said a similar agreement with Lower Lakeview Road residents works out to about $40,675 per property. Owners have the option of paying the cost up front or having it financed over 30 years, with the payments to be funded by a parcel tax.

The interest rate will be set at the time the funds are borrowed.

From

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PERSPECTIVE

Historical Lens

March 28, 2008

Lakeshore in days gone by

What a magnificent place it was in the early days, when the aboriginal people roamed the mountains and bluffs around the lake, and the land belonged to no man. This photo from the Windermere Valley Museum was taken relatively late, in 1929, but no other information is available. If you have any more information about this photograp, numbered A159, you may email the Windermere District Historical Society at wvmuseum@cyberlink.bc.ca.

Why are we putting young drivers at risk?

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Publisher More Canadians have died in traffic accidents than in both World Wars. Yet we don’t have a Remembrance Day for them.

Instead, we blithely continue to raise our speed limits, build faster cars, promote reckless driving through television advertisements that show vehicles careering up mountains and screeching to a halt at the edge of cliffs, and give drunk drivers every opportunity to continue on their murderous path of destruction.

How did it come to this? Why do we have marches for breast cancer, memorials for shooting victims and petitions for human rights on Parliament Hill while continuing to ignore the biggest threat to human life that exists in our country?

Somehow along the way we have become blinded to the sight of overturned vehicles in the ditches and deaf to the sound of sirens.

Unfortunately, it is often our children who pay the

price. In this country it is legal for children to drive at the age of 16, even 15 in some provinces. I know I will make myself very unpopular with every teenager in the country, including my own, by suggesting that this should be raised to 18, as it is in Europe.

Secondly, why is it customary in our community and many other small towns to buy vehicles for teenagers? Getting a car as a 16th birthday present or a grad gift is fairly common, judging by the number of cars parked in Student Parking at our local high school.

Parents, I know you are under a lot of pressure to cough up a car, and I know that in an area where there is little public transit it is convenient in many ways to allow your children to drive themselves, but please consider the risk.

Are your children responsible enough to drive?

Are they frightened enough of the consequences? Or do they consider a car just another big toy like a quad or a snowmobile?

Finally, why isn’t driver training mandatory for young people in Canada before they can get their li-

cences? It’s not the total solution, but it’s a start. Right now driver training is optional and many parents can’t afford the cost.

My point is that given the cost of the loss of a single human life, either the government or the Insurance Corporation of B.C. should pay for that training, and willingly.

I dread having to interview another family and write another obituary about a young person killed on our highways. Look at the number of crosses in the ditches around our valley, and consider how many of them were young people. Kids are reckless. Parents and society as a whole have a responsibility to protect them from themselves.

The B. C. Automobile Association is coming to Invermere to conduct a safety workshop, not for teen drivers, but for their parents, on April 10th from 7 to 9 p.m. at the School District office, 620-4th Avenue, Invermere. To register, call 347-9462 and leave a message. Hopefully all parents who are thinking about allowing their children to drive will attend.

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

March 28, 2008

Arts Centre supporter takes mayor to task Dear Editor: On the basis of one survey, focus groups and chitchat on street corners, the Mayor and Councillors of the District of Invermere have decided that we don’t need a performing arts centre.

In a recent letter to both local newspapers, I take exception to many of Mayor Mark Shmigelsky’s comments.

First of all, I want to take a closer look at the survey which was distributed last summer. The only item on that survey that came with a price tag was the proposed performing arts centre/library; as cost estimates had been published.

Residents were asked to rank in order their preferences out of 14 choices. How easy it is to dream of a wave pool with no cost attached! Obviously, the survey was biased. I also note that no deadline date was printed on the survey. With no sense of urgency, it would appear that no one took it seriously, as less than 100 residents responded.

Secondly, I find it ironic that our Mayor, who came to our community to play hockey, would refer to the Arts Council’s proposed facility as “an extremely ambitious project.”

I can well remember when the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena was viewed by many as an extremely ambitious project. There was a good deal of controversy over the proposal to build a hockey/skating arena but a determined lobby group pushed it through.

Regional taxpayers have supported the arena for over 30 years and the facility has been an asset to both the community and local business. A performing arts centre would generate a similar spin-off in the business community.

Mr. Shmigelsky, would you please clarify what you mean by the Arts Council wanting their own “dedicated facility.” This is absolutely erroneous. The Arts Council had already agreed to pursue a joint facility with the Library, a centre of arts and literacy.

These plans incorporated a multi-use theatre with decent acoustics and change rooms. This would fa-

cilitate the presentation of dance, drama, choir and musical performances along with cinema. Such a facility would also accommodate conferences, large meetings and other community activities. Retractable seating would have made banquets and dances a possibility. The Arts Council and the Library Board also both signed an agreement prepared by the District of Invermere that provided for a number of multi-purpose and dedicated rooms in this facility for activities such as gymnastics, judo, dance and many other activities.

This would have truly been a community centre but, in my opinion, you and your council have rejected it on the basis of a flawed survey and extreme short-sightedness.

I deeply resent the fact that the Columbia Valley Arts Council has been denied the opportunity to present their proposal in an open and public forum.

Helen Kipp, Charter Member, Past-President Columbia Valley Arts Council

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

Clarification offered on tax issues Dear Editor: I normally don’t get involved in the issues that take place in the Letters to the Editor, but I thought a bit of clarification was needed in regards to the letters in the March 21st issue from Jeff Sparkes, and the March 14th issue from Jackie Anderson and Jim Brown.

1. “Nonresidents pay approximately double the property taxes that full-time residents do.”

The homeowner grant is only $570 for most residents, while base property taxes in Invermere are approximately $2,000 for a home assessed at only $300,000, which is far below the average assessment.

The homeowner grant is only a reallocation of all the other higher taxes that British Columbians pay, i.e.: higher personal and corporation income tax, social services tax, gasoline tax, etc. While part-time residents do pay some of these taxes, some of the time, most British Columbians pay most of these taxes, most of the time. The Alberta and other governments provide similar benefits to their citizens in the form of cash and utility rebates, subsidized health premiums, etc.

2. “Nonresidents pay for school taxes they never use.”

This is a national social policy (not a local one) to provide low-cost education to the youth of the country. Even local residents with no children pay this tax.

Schools are funded based on the number of students attending local schools.School tax revenues don’t all stay in the valley. They are pooled and then allocated somewhat equally so that all areas both affluent (in terms of property taxes collected) and not are able to provide equal education opportunities. If you want to own property, paying school taxes is a reality.

3. “It can be said the nonresidents have minimal demands on services.”

Other than water and sewer usage, which MAY be less than full-time residents, it still costs to maintain the street in front of all properties, provide policing and to provide all the services, etc. Many local residents also don’t use all these services all the time. The fact that the shadow population is not included in per capita funding not only hurts the nonresident but also the full-time resident, whose tax dollars are higher as a result of providing services to all without the benefit of provincial funding for that shadow population. This is on the local politicians to be sure that Victoria recognizes this discrepancy.

4. “The high cost of property is a common economic problem throughout the nation and not attributable to nonresidents.”

Property values are definitely higher in this valley than in other close-by communities as a result of the demand created by Albertans, British Columbians and others buying second homes and speculating in real estate. That is the way of a capitalist society, the one in which we all choose to live.

Average house prices in Cranbrook, for instance, are about $100,000 to $150,000 lower than they are in Invermere. The difference is not because the land in Invermere comes with mineral rights, but rather the demand and ability to afford the higher prices, by nonresidents. The local economy can in no way justify or afford the current prices. But just as demand goes up it can also go down, as can be seen by the current situation facing our neighbors to the south. Providing affordable housing always has to be a priority for the local and provincial governments, and while slow in

process I have read of some initiatives being considered by local council, albeit perhaps too little and not soon enough.

5. “What drives infrastructure costs up is development.”

Developers do pay for the initial costs of roads and infrastructure. They build the roads, install the services and pay development cost charges to the local municipality. The developer’s customers, both resident and nonresident, ultimately pay for the cost of the infrastructure through the price they pay for a lot.

Developers only pay for ‘services’ when they are the owners of the property, through property taxes. The stewardship and ownership of roads and parks are generally turned over to the municipality to maintain.

If the municipality requires the developer to adhere to high construction standards, then the cost to maintain the improvements should be minimal for a number of years. I agree that developers do and have profited greatly from their business and some come, make money and then go. But it is up to the municipality to be sure adequate and reasonable development cost charges are in place, that the infrastructure is built to the highest possible standards and that adequate green space is provided for in every development.

It isn’t apparent that that has always been the case, but this is the way it is should be done. As we are all neighbors, we do need to have positive debates in order to come to the best solutions, and to make necessary changes so that sustainable growth is possible.

Robert Harvey, Invermere See more Letters to the Editor on Page 18.

Quit blaming the developers Dear Editor: After reading Jeff Sparkes’ letter (March 21, 2008), I felt compelled to make a few comments about his obviously anti-developer attitude.

As a former employee of a developer in Calgary, I am somewhat familiar with the development industry. Admittedly I am not an expert in the rules and regulations in development in the Valley, although if they are the least bit similar to those in Calgary, there are several misconceptions here as well as there. Jeff Sparkes is correct in stating that “Supply and demand drive the housing market” but what he (and many others) fail to realize is that developers do not create the demand; they only respond to it.

No developer will build it and hope they will come.

The costs associated with development are simply too great to rest on hope alone.

Mr. Sparkes also states that “Development drives up the cost of infrastructure.” In every development in Calgary, and again, I imagine it is not

dissimilar here, the developer is required to pay for all infrastructure within the community they are developing. That includes everything from deep services like water and sewer to roads, streetlights and sidewalks. As well, developers are required to pay levies that support infrastructure (like roads, recreational facilities, libraries, etc.) well outside their community boundaries.

Developers also pay property taxes, like anyone else, and those taxes fund other services in the municipality. Developers may have to “sit” on their land for many years, waiting for regulatory approvals, and paying engineers and land surveyors, and for environmental and soil tests long before they ever see a dime in returns from lot sales.

Every developer I have ever met – and I worked in the development industry for a decade – is dedicated to creating the best community they possibly can, and is definitely not “here today and gone tomorrow” as Mr. Sparkes accuses.

In Calgary, developers are also required to main-

tain the community – parks, roads, sewers, etc. for a period of time (often up to and beyond two years) after the community is completed. Meanwhile, the municipality is collecting taxes on the properties without expending funds on maintenance.

When the municipality does take over the services, they are taking possession of new infrastructure that has significantly fewer costs associated with upgrades and maintenance than older communities.

While I realize that development is often a hot political issue – that doesn’t change no matter where you go – it is unfair and misinformed to blame development for every civic woe.

Sure, developers are in business to make a profit – but I would guess that most everyone doesn’t work for personal satisfaction alone. Developers risk much and it is in their best interest to make the entire community – not just the one they are developing – a better place for everyone to live.

Cara Katterhagen, Calgary / Windermere

> >>>

Encore

Page 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

ART FROM THE HEART

MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 10

FILM FEST

PAGE 15

Out & About Art the Heart Heart student student art art show show returns returns to to Pynelogs Pynelogs Art From from the CulturalCenter CentreApril April8-25.

8-25.See Seepage Page13 13for formore... more.

Cultural

Cinefest · Toby Theatre · The Kite Runner

Showing at the Toby Theatre on Monday March 31st at 7 pm.

Canadian Tenors Concert • Christ Church Trinity Canadian Tenors Concert at Christ Church Trinity Friday April 4th.

Call 342-4423 for tickets.

What does ART mean to you?

Art From The Heart: Part 4 · Pynelogs Cultural Centre Featuring Art from Kindergarten to Grade 7 students.

Show dates April 8 - 25 at Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

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

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

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

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

Movie Review: The Kite Runner

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday $500 Cheese Burger Wednesday Pizza Night – Kokanee Bottle $475 Thursday Wing Night – Kokanee Jugs $1375

Reviewed by Elinor Florence

Friday & Saturday – Great Drink Specials All Weekend

DJ DANCE MUSIC • NHL ON THE BIG SCREEN

Employment Opportunities Front Desk Agent – two positions Copper City Saloon – Wait Staff

E-mail resumés to: invinn@telus.net or call 341-1946 Best Western Invermere Inn (250) 342-9246

Friday, April 4th

Saturday, April 19th

DL Incognito

ime Three-T d ar Juno Aw Winner

Hip Hop from Toronto

This is one of those powerful stories that feels like a documentary rather than a work of fiction.

That's not to say it isn't extremely entertaining, just that it carries the ring of veracity throughout.

The title comes from a game played by two boys, Amir and Hassan, in which one of them flies the kite and the other runs it down when it falls to the earth.

Amir is the son of a well-to-do Kabul merchant, and Hassan is his father’s servant and his best friend. They grew up in a happy, stable Afghanistan during the early 1970s.

When the Soviets arrive, Amir and his father flee across the border to Pakistan and emigrate to California, where Amir grows up, marries a woman from his own culture and becomes a successful novelist.

But he remains haunted by a brutal childhood incident in which he betrayed the trust of his dearest friend Hassan.

Years later, Amir learns that the Taliban have murdered Hassan and his wife, and their little boy Sohrab has been placed in an orphanage.

His guilt spurs Amir to makes the difficult journey back to his homeland, only to learn the boy has been enslaved by a prominent Taliban official.

The Taliban are portrayed in this movie as demented monsters who are wreaking havoc of mythic proportions

on an enslaved people. For those who think the Taliban are no more than a super-strict religious sect, this movie is an eye-opener.

The actors are all very skilled and virtually unknown. Khalid Abdalla plays the main character, and the little boys who play the young Amir and Hassan are wonderful.

Perhaps the best performance is by Homayoun Ershadi, who plays the brilliant, complex character Baba, Amir's father. The movie is directed by Marc Forster.

Based on his debut novel, The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini provides an educational account of Afghanistan's political turmoil, while also developing characters whose heartbreaking struggles will stay in your mind long after the last page has been turned.

One tiny word of caution: a good chunk of the movie is subtitled, so you have to be a fast reader. There is also one scene in which a young boy is raped, which I presume is why the movie is rated PG for Parental Guidance.

Not only is this movie now available on DVD, but you may also see it for $10 on the big screen. Cinefest will show The Kite Runner at 7 p.m. Monday, March 31st at The Toby Theatre in Invermere.

RATING: 8 OUT OF 10 HEADS

Bud’s is where it’s at! • 342-2965

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

March 28, 2008

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

• 1-3 pm: Career Fair, sponsored by Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, College of the Rockies, David Thompson Secondary School and Kootenay Business Magazine. The fair will bring employers and prospective employees together. Contact Keith Powell at 250-426-7253 or 1-800-663-8555 or info@kpimedia.com for more information.

• 5:30 pm: Weight Watchers meets every Thursday at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Friday, April 4th:

• 7:30 pm: March 26-29: Juno • 7:30 pm April 2-5: Jumper

Friday, March 28th: • 5 pm-midnight: Crop Night at Scrappy Do’s, space is limited! Call 342-7238 to reserve your spot.

• 5 pm: Deadline for kids 12 and under to enter our Colouring Contest and be eligible to win an Easter basket from It’s A Wrap!

Monday, March 31st: • 4 pm: Deadline for submission of nominations for the annual Business Excellence Awards, Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. For info: 342-2844 or vote online at www.cvchamber.ca.

• 7 pm: The Kite Runner, a Cinefest movie presented by the Columbia Valley Arts Council at the Toby Theatre. Tickets $10 at the door.

• 7:30 pm: Steven Palmer performs at Christ Church Trinity. Tickets at Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials, Trims & Treasures in Fairmont, and at the door.

Tuesday, April 1st: • Door-to-door fundraising campaign conducted by the local branch, Canadian Cancer Society, starts today and lasts for the month of April.

• 7 pm: Information session at College of the Rockies for four-week Spring Detoxification program, starting April 15th, conducted by Naturopathic Physician Clare Craig. For info: 342-8830.

• Canadian Tenors Concert, Christ Church Trinity.

Call 342-4423 for tickets and info.

• 7 pm: 11th Annual Mountain Film Festival at J. A. Laird School, sponsored by Conrad Kain Centennial Society. Cost $12; refreshments available. Tickets at Field’s, Columbia Cycle and Laird School.

7-11 pm: Galarama Ladies’ Night to raise funds for Edgewater Hall.

Saturday, April 5th and Sunday, April 6th: • Watercolour painting workshop taught by Graham Flatt. For info: Victoria Page, 688-0220.

Monday, April 7th-Friday, April 11th:

Thursday, April 10th: • 7-9 pm: In the Driver’s Seat, a workshop for parents of teen drivers, at the Rocky Mountain School District Office, 620-4th Avenue, Invermere.

Sponsored by B.C. Automobile Association. To register, call 347-9462 and leave message.

Friday, April 11th: • 5 pm-midnight: Crop Night at Scrappy-Do’s, Invermere. Drop in now to reserve your spot.

Saturday, April 12th: • 7:30 pm Cocktails, 8 pm Big Band Dance, 10:15 pm Buffet, David Thompson Secondary School’s Senior Band Concert at Invermere Community Hall, tickets $20 each at Majestic U-Brew, Dave’s Book Bar or any senior band student.

Monday, April 14th and Tuesday, April 15th:

• Acrylic painting workshop taught by Graham Flatt.

For info: Victoria Page, 688-0220.

• Talent Show and Film Festival at the local high school, to raise funds for the Build A School in Africa Project. For info: Kelsey at 342-2000.

Tuesday, April 8th:

Monday, April 14th:

• Deadline for soccer and baseball registration.

Register online at the Columbia Recreation Society’s new website, www.cvrec.ca or call Bob Gadsby, 3423210, ext. 114.

• 11 am-4 pm daily: Gallery and Gift Shop opens at Pynelogs Cultural Centre for the 2008 season.

• 7 pm: Lars and the Real Girl, a Cinefest movie presented by the Columbia Valley Arts Council at the Toby Theatre. Tickets $10 at the door.

Tuesday, April 8th-Friday, April 25th: • Art From the Heart shows 500 pieces of art created

by Columbia Valley elementary students at Pynelogs Cultural Centre, Invermere. For info: 342-4423.

Wednesday, April 2nd:

Wednesday, April 9th:

• 7 pm: Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley Annual General Meeting, Christ Church Trinity, 110-7th Avenue, Invermere. Everyone welcome.

• 11 am-4 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Pynelogs Café opens, featuring the Scotty Burger.

• 6 pm: Columbia Valley’s 10th Annual Business Excellence Awards, at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort with guest speaker Bob Robertson of the TV show

Thursday, April 3rd:

Double Exposure. Tickets $50, dinner and award presentations at 6:45 pm. Call 342-2844 or e-mail info@cvchamber.ca to reserve your tickets.

Thursday, April 17th: • Healthy Lawn and Garden Fair and “Packing Up the Pesticides Forum,” sponsored by Canadian Cancer Society.

Friday, April 25th: • 5 pm-midnight: Crop Night at Scrappy-Do’s, Invermere. Drop in now to reserve your spot.

Saturday, April 26th: • Symphonie of the Kootenays: Spirit of Scandinavia: Orchestral Splendour - the music of Edvard Grieg and Jan Sibelius, part of the Columbia Valley Arts Council’s Concert Series. Call 342-4423 for more.

Reserve Your Springtime Wedding in this Perfect Setting Love is in the fairways this spring, and Eagle Ranch Resort is the perfect venue to host your event. We provide the services of a wedding coordinator and the added touch of Service Beyond™ to exceed your every expectation. Visit the clubhouse or inquire at info@eagleranchresort.com for availability and more information.

Elevate Your Wedding Experience Call (877) 877-3889 or(250) 342-0562 for tee time reservations or visit www.eagleranchresort.com

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

Portrait of a lady

NO FOOLIN’!!

April 1 - 5 is Jill’s 1 Year Anniversary Sale

Mary Yadernuk, who lives alone in a farmhouse near Spillimacheen, has achieved local fame for her love of animals. She raises sheep, chickens and ducks.

Mrs. Yadernuk is also known to shoot predators who threaten her beloved pets, including cougars and most recently, a grizzly bear.

Mrs. Yadernuk, who raised three children on her own after being widowed at an early age, embodies the valley’s pioneering spirit.

She was photographed

by Brian Geis last week at a farewell reception for her old friend, Francis Dunne, who is leaving the valley after serving as the Spillimacheen postmaster for more than 50 years.

25% off regular priced clothing

including new maternity wear, Pacific Rim & 5th Avenue Jewellery

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In the Driver’s Seat

Workshop for parents of teen drivers Join us for a practical workshop for parents of teen drivers.

April 10th, 2008 – 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Rocky Mountain School District Administration Building

To Register call 347-9462 (leave a message) Free of Charge Drive to Save Lives • www.TeenDrivers.ca •

Photo by Brian Geis

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

March 28, 2008

Pynelogs opens season with the return of Art From the Heart student art show Submitted by Michelle Bootsma Windermere Elementary School The hallowed walls of Pynelogs are about to be covered by the mosaic of artwork produced by valley kids in this year’s installation of Art from the Heart.

Art from the Heart is an exhibition of students’ art which is proudly sponsored by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Kids from kindergarten to Grade seven submit one piece of their art to Pynelogs Gallery for all to see.

Windermere Elementary School Grade 7 student Michelle Bootsma said a lot of kids will be represented in the show.

“I’ve always loved art. It’s my favourite subject in school and I enjoy sketching, drawing and painting,

but I know I’m not the only one out there who does. Evidently a lot of kids do, and their art is displayed in the show,” she said. “So come support the students and take a look because the gallery is sure to be bursting with creativity waiting to be appreciated!”

Art from the Heart is open from April 8 to 25. You can come and visit Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., and weekends April 12, 13, 19 and 20. There is a family event on April 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

All the students have put an outstanding amount of effort into their projects. Whether they are painted, drawn, sketched or sculpted, they are sure to amaze you.

This is also Pynelogs season opening! Make sure you come to see all the amazing artwork!

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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 March 25th 3.30% 3.80% 3.81% 3.80% 4.10% 4.30% 4.45%

New USD High Interest Savings Accounts No minimum balances 2.75% 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 Premier Wealth Management Firm Planning

Estate Planning, Retirement Planning, Retirement Projections, Income Splitting, Registered Educational Savings Plans

Services

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

Ask us about our free consultations and no fee accounts.

March 28, 2008

YOUR MONEY How to get the most out of working with your advisor

The relationship you have with your financial advisor is one of the most important you’ll have in your life. Treat that relationship right by giving it the time and attention it deserves. Here are some tips on how you can do just that.

Find the right person The best way to get the most out of your relationship with a financial advisor is to find someone you can work with in the first place.

No matter how knowledgeable or experienced an advisor may be, you’ll have a difficult time getting the most out of the relationship if you don’t share the same investment values, or if you can’t see eye to eye on how best to achieve your financial goals.

For example, if you’re close to retirement, you’ll want to work with an advisor with specialized knowledge of retirement income planning strategies.

An advisor who is an expert in this area will, among other things, be able to assist you in withdrawing a sustainable income from your assets, inform you what your portfolio asset allocation should be as you age and tell you which out-of-pocket health care costs and types of government benefits to expect in retirement.

Share information willingly Working with advisors is a lot like working with doctors – you need to tell them all the relevant information about your “case” if you want them to do the best possible job. So be open about your financial history. Provide details about your financial affairs. Your advisor is a professional, and is required to treat such information as absolutely confidential.

Forge a partnership Some people want to work with a financial profes-

sional who is simply an “order taker.” In such a relationship, the client does the thinking, and the advisor simply executes the order. Most advisors have a lot more to offer than that.

Treat your relationship as a partnership, an effort by two people to reach the same goal. Listen to your advisor’s ideas, and then come back with your own and discuss them together. This kind of partnership is usually the best way to achieve long-term financial success.

Keep in contact It’s a good idea to set up a regular contact schedule with your advisor. Meeting once a quarter works well for most people, whether that “meeting” happens over the phone, via email or in person. Whichever method you choose, regular contact will keep you up to date on important economic and market events, and will help your advisor make any necessary portfolio adjustments should your life circumstances change.

Be up front and honest Relationships thrive in an environment of candour and trust. Your relationship with your advisor is no different. In all your dealings, strive to be up front and honest. If you’re happy with the way things are going, let your advisor know. If you think certain things need to be improved, say so. This kind of straight-up approach will help avoid misunderstandings and miscommunications in the future, and will ensure the kind of partnership you’re looking for.

To get the most out of your relationship with your advisor, you’ll need to make an ongoing commitment of time and effort. It’s well worth it. Every time you look at the financial progress you’re making, you’ll be happy you did.

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

As of March 24, 2008

13,019 12,548 12,480 $100.86 $918.70 $0.9820

Weekly Gain/Loss

67.72 576.64 693.09 -4.82 -83.90 -0.0187

Year To Date

-5.88% -5.40% -18.47% 5.06% 10.16% -1.37%

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

March 28, 2008

Film fest to benefit climbing wall and launch Conrad Kain Centennial The Conrad Kain Centennial Society will launch a year of festivities celebrating the hundredth anniversary of the arrival of the storied mountain guide with a film night featuring selections from the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival.

The first annual Conrad Kain Mountain Film Night will be presented at 7 p.m., April 4th at J. A. Laird School in Invermere. Organized by the Conrad Kain Centennial Society, the presentation will screen some of the best films from this year’s Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival while celebrating the life of Canada’s most famous historic mountain guide.

“Conrad Kain is a very important historical figure for the Alpine Club of Canada,” said Isabelle Daigneault, the club’s vice-president of mountain culture, “not only because of his spirit of adventure, his climbing achievements and his consideration for others; he was also the first guide hired by the Alpine Club of Canada in 1909 for the camp at Lake O’Hara. We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Conraid Kain Centennial Society in honouring this noteworthy mountain man.”

The film night is the first in a series of events commemorating the centennial of Kain’s arrival in Canada in 1909, organized by the local society, composed of a dedicated group of Kain fans. The evening will also feature a short presentation on Kain’s life by historian/guide Arnor Larson, and the society’s chairman, Hermann Mauthner, who will outline future Kain events in the valley.

“A skilled naturalist, Conrad’s powers of observation were applied not only to the birds and animals, to flowers and sunsets,” Mr. Larson commented, “but with as penetrating an insight as Thoreau, his stories deconstruct the madness he saw in the world around him.”

Kain was based in Wilmer in the early 1900s, and guided hundreds of ascents of peaks and rock routes by the time he died in Cranbrook in 1934. In Canada alone, he and his clients made more than 40 first ascents of classic

peaks, including Mt. Robson (the highest in the Canadian Rockies), Mt. Farnham (the highest in the Purcell Range), the technically-difficult limestone rampart of Mt. Louis near Banff, and the granitic Bugaboo Spire and Farnham Tower in the Purcells. During three summers in New Zealand, Kain guided 29 first ascents.

Proceeds from the evening will go toward the completion of the Conrad Kain Climbing Wall at J. A. Laird school. Teacher, and society member Herb Weller constructed the wall with the help of his students, their parents, staff, local businesses, community members and school district construction workers.

Weller explains the tie-in with Kain: “The slogan for J. Alfred Laird School is ‘Reaching Higher’ and everyone at our school strives to reach this goal in whatever they do. Conrad Kain exemplifies this slogan in his climbing, guiding and in his philosophy of life. He would have been the first to promote safe and proper climbing techniques, as are taught at the wall, to a variety of people. It is an honor to dedicate the climbing wall in his spirit and name.”

Some of the films to be screened at the event include: Committed, Alas Resort, Patagonian Winter (winner of Best Film on Mountaineering), Skiing in the Shadow of Ghengis Khan (Best Film on Skiing), 49 Megawatts (Best Environmental Film), and Great White Fright.

Advance tickets are available at Field’s, (250) 341-6173, Columbia Cycle, (250) 342-6164 and J. A. Laird School, (250) 342-6232. See also www. conradkain.com for more info.

REACHING HIGHER—Above, right, Teacher Herb Weller gives Grade 5 student Mackenzie Rad a “top rope” belay on the Conrad Kain Climbing Wall at J. A. Laird School. Right, Kain belays climbers on Mt. Resplendent, 1913. Inset, an early portrait of Conrad Kain. Photo of climbing wall by Pat Morrow/Conrad Kain Centennial Society. Photo of Kain on Mt. Resplendent and inset by Byron Harmon, Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

March 28, 2008

Parents of teen drivers invited to workshop

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Parents of teenage drivers are set to get a thorough insight into how best to handle their offspring once they get behind the wheel.

In The Driver’s Seat is a workshop geared towards parents of teen drivers, which is coming to Invermere next month.

It will be held in the Rocky Mountain School District administration building on Thursday, April 10th, from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

The workshop has been organised by the B. C. Automobile Association’s Traffic Safety Foundation, and aims to help concerned parents whose teens have recently moved into the driving seat for the first time.

Each year in B.C., almost 50,000 teenagers enter the licensing process, so there are a lot of parents across the province who are concerned about the teenage driving years.

The workshop aims to show parents that some things have changed since they learned to drive.

Today, there are more drivers on the road and driving decisions must be made faster and in a more congested traffic environment. That’s one of the reasons behind a major change in B.C. driver licensing in

Experience the culinary delights from our authentic Hungarian menu.

recent years. Graduated Licensing means that licensing standards are now tougher in B.C. According to the Traffic Safety Foundation, the teenage driving years can be a stressful time for the whole family, but it can also present some real opportunities.

Learning to drive isn’t a single event — it takes place each and every time both parent and teen are in the car.

But it’s a great time for parents and teenagers to listen to and learn from each other, building trust as they go along. And, it’s an important time for parents to brush up on their own driving skills and knowledge.

Teens are watching and learning from their parents each time they’re in the car together. And parents want to ensure their teenager learns safely — right from the start.

Whether parents choose to teach their teenager to drive or not, the most important thing they can do is be involved.

The Teen Driving workshops for Parents are being held throughout the province. To register for next month’s workshop in Invermere, call 347-9462 and leave a message.

For more information visit www.TeenDrivers.ca.

Elevate Your Dining Experience

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

The Golf Shop at Eagle Ranch Now Open 7 days a week!

Opening Day for Golf Thursday, April 3rd

Compliment Your Dining Experience with a Fine Wine Selection Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Windermere, and the Columbia Valley while sipping on some of our finest reserve selections currently being featured by the glass. To compliment the wine, try one of the tempting entrees featured on our new fresh sheet.

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Location: The Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch, 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail

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

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

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

Call 250-342-0562 for tee times • www.eagleranchresort.com

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

Housing prices result of Alberta money Dear Editor: I feel I must respond to the two readers who scolded Bob Pearce for his letter about a two-tier tax system for non-residents.

Here is another perspective from a new valley resident who is struggling to raise a young family on a single income.

First, there is not a two-tier tax system in place.

Taxes are not based on the services you specifically use or want. Your municipal taxes are based on the requirements of the municipal government and the city as a whole.

How much you pay is based on where you live and your ability to pay them (which assumes—falsely in some cases—that the more valuable your property, the more you can pay).

It would be a dark day if they started giving out homeowner’s grants to help a non-resident who has the wherewithal to buy a second home worth five times more than my first (and only) home.

Second, both Jackie Anderson and Jim Brown alluded to the issue that affordable housing is a prob-

lem in any other part of Canada. While this is true, there are few places where it is as acute as the town of Invermere.

Here is a sample of housing prices I got off the MLS. The goal was to find a three-bedroom house suitable to raise a family of four in various Southern B.C. locations.

The lowest figures available in each category are given.

• Cranbrook: Attached-$184,000. Detached-$229,000 • Kamloops: Attached-$210,000. Detached-$245,000 • Kelowna: Attached-$264,000. Detached-$299,000 • Golden: Attached-$N/A. Detached-$299,000 • Vancouver: Attached-$248,000. Detached-$315,000 • Invermere: Attached-$314,000. Detached-$419,000 • Whistler: Attached-$439,000. Detached-$769,000

Thirdly, Jim Brown said that the high prices are not as a result of non-residents. Where do the high prices come from, then? It is not because there is a wealth of high-paying jobs here in Invermere like there is in Calgary or Vancouver.

Open letter to mayor about housing density Dear Mayor Shmigelsky: Thank you for holding the public forum on the issue of zoning changes to the north end of Westside Park. As a resident of the subdivision, I support the proposed changes and would like to offer my perspective in addition to those of my neighbors.

Here in Canada, and especially in the Columbia Valley, we enjoy living within the beauty of our surroundings.

The most contentous issue of the evening was in regards to raising the height restrictions of the lot in question from 7.5 meters to 9 meters. I found it interesting and somewhat perplexing that the major objection to this proposal was that it would allow for six more strata units to be built on top of the commercial space that may one day be placed there.

At 2.5 people in the average Canadian household, one could expect that 15 additional humans would be found in the community when the project was complete as a direct result of the zoning change.

At the forum one of my fellow residents made a critical point that seemed to be quickly over-looked, that if we, as a community refuse to let things be built ‘up’ then we must build ‘out’.

I would ask council to carefully consider this point. It is because we have so much land in this country we seem to think that it is ours to squan-

der. Many of my other neighbors voiced concerns in regards to parking issues and increased volume of traffic and noise levels.

I find it hard to have any sympathy for anyone who lives in any town or center anywhere in the world and frowns at too many other people living around them.

The fact of the matter is that I and those living next to me share at least one common denominator: we have made the choice to live in close proximity to one another.

My family and I moved to Westside Park for two very simple reasons: (1) We could afford it and; (2) We wanted to live in Invermere. We have come to enjoy the area a great deal due to our neighbors and the well structured logistic elements.

I am more than willing to share this neighborhood with 15 more people because I truly believe it is a great part of town. Overall growth may slow down in the course of time, but will not stop altogether. If we cannot build up in our cities and towns, we must build out into untouched areas.

Good of the few seldom ought to outweigh the good of the many. The greatest good for the greatest number is always the greatest good.

Skylar White Invermere

Most of the jobs generated by non-resident spending (besides short-term construction and trades jobs) are low-paying seasonal jobs in the tourist and service industry.

The real reason for Invermere’s high prices is because it is a convenient place for Alberta’s recreational dollars to flow since Canmore is full, Banff is not for sale, and the Okanagan and Shuswap are too far away.

I do agree that Invermere needs to provide better housing options rather than just over taxing non-residents. How about making some affordable housing available for young families (less than $300,000)?

How about fair assessments (like not over-assessing a 30-year-old house that would never be a part of the vacation market) so the retiree on a fixed income can continue to live here?

And for the local businesses who have seen their profits increase, how about some discounts for those who call the Columbia Valley home?

Calvin Nickel Edgewater

Liberals meet with minister Dear Editor: On Tuesday, I, along with 25 local people, attended a breakfast meeting with Pat Bell, Minister of Agriculture and Lands for British Columbia. The meeting was hosted by the local Liberal Association so that individuals would be able to receive a balanced look at far-reaching issues both within the area and the province as a whole.

Topics were wide ranging from the importance of Jumbo Glacier, to climate change, to infrastructure issues for water and sewer, as well as the Pine Beetle infestation and how that affects rural communities.

The provincial government has been setting monies aside to help, for instance, the District of Invermere to strengthen the river bank adjacent to the sewage lagoon beside Toby Creek. Discussions are ongoing between the federal and provincial governments towards improving water and sewer infrastructure throughout the province and here in the Columbia Valley. These open discussions between Ministers, MLAs and their constituents allows for the quintessential win-win scenario. The ministers learn about local issues from local people, and the local people learn about some of the plans ongoing in and from Victoria.

And, of course, these meetings allow individuals to become part of the solution by joining the Provincial Liberal party.

David R. Pacey, Columbia Valley/Revelstoke Liberal Constituency

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

March 28, 2008

Helping hands

No more searching for the lowest mortgage rates…

Top photo: Invermere Councillor Bob Campsall proclaims April as the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Month. He is shown with Sheila Bonny, co-chair of the society’s door-to-door campaign.

Please welcome the fundraising volunteers to your door or call Sheila at 342-3112 if you would like to help.

Great rates, products and service www.meridianmortgagesolutions.com

Bill Rainbow Mortgage Broker (250) 342-3453

We’re Open!

Come & Have Some Fun!

Bottom: The expansion to the Invermere Seniors’ Hall just got another boost from the Invermere Rotary Club. Here Rotary president Yvonne Redeker, left, presents a big cheque for $2,000 to club members Norma Hastewell, Tony Scheffer and Eric Rasmussen.

The money will be used to improve the hall, including more washrooms and a chair lift.

The group currently has about 160 members.

• 18 Holes of Natural Forest Mini Golf • Spin & Bump Carts • Animal Petting Park • Wood Carvers Gift Shop • Snack and Ice Cream Bar • Message Bed & Chair for Relaxation Bring the family/activities can be purchased individually or by the pack.

Pre-season operating hours and rates until April 30th/08.

Open Wednesday – Sunday 1:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Fairmont Hot Springs On Hwy 93/95

3 4 5 - 4 511

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

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

NOTICE

of Watermain Flushing The municipality will be flushing its community water system the month of April. This program, carried out twice yearly, is necessary to maintain the quality of our water supply. There may be some short interruptions in the water service and temporary discolouration of water as a result of the sediment and organic materials that are being flushed from the water mains. During this period, disinfection by chlorination will be continued. To assist the Public Works Department during the flushing operation, users are advised that if they are experiencing persistent discoloration or odour problems with the water, to immediately notify the Municipal Office and explain the nature of the problem.

The District apologizes for any inconveniences caused by this operation. For further information, please telephone the municipal office at 342-9281.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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Sisters purchase former Touch of Dutch flower shop

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Sisters Joanne Broadfoot and Sandi Clark had a dream of owning their own flower shop, and now at last their dream has blossomed into reality.

The pair has recently taken over the Touch of Dutch Florist on 7th Avenue, and re-named it Canterbury Flowers, since Canterbury was one of the original names for Invermere.

Born in the valley, the sisters said their mum Shirley has been a huge inspiration in shaping their dream.

Canterbury Flowers opened on March 1st, and Joanne and Sandi have lots of new ideas planned for the store.

“We’ve just listened to what the customers want, and we’re offering things that people would normally have to drive out of town to find,” Sandi said.

“We’re local and we’ve lived our whole lives in the valley, so we know what’s in demand. The first thing we did was to bring in lots of live plants as we were always being asked for them. So we’ve got flowering and tropical plants and it’s going very well so far.

“We’re also in negotiations with an East Kootenay company for beeswax candles, and we have mountain flower paintings around the store which are available for sale,” she said.

This is the first time Joanne and Sandi have worked together, but they had a practice run at working together when the store was still A Touch of Dutch, before owner Frank Kirkby retired.

Sandi was working at Valley Alley until August last year, then she started working part-time with Joanne at A Touch of Dutch, who had already worked there for three and a half years.

Joanne explained they stock a range of seasonal flowers. At the moment they have plenty of spring

blooms such as daffodils, irisis, tulips and stocks.

Then in summer, they sell a lot of gerbera daisies, lilies and roses, as they are popular wedding flowers, before switching to Chinese lanterns, carthamus and pumpkin trees in autumn. And in winter, poinsettas and table arrangements are very popular, with or without candles.

The wedding season is also on its way, so Joanne and Sandi are preparing for a busy time. Last year, Joanne supplied flowers for 35 weddings, and they’ve already had their first wedding this year.

Sandi says she loves dealing with people, and enjoys helping customers pick out what they want to keep within their budget.Customers can pick up their flowers or Canterbury Flowers does offer a delivery service from Brisco to Canal Flats.

And there are more plans to develop gift items in the store.

“We’re aiming to bring in items for new babies, as well as other gift items. We always listen to people’s requests when they come in, so if they can’t find what they’re looking for in town, we will try to get it in.

“A lot of our orders are phoned in because we do custom arrangements, which is another thing that drives what we buy,” Joanne said.

Both sisters have their mum to thanks for getting them interested in plants and flowers.

“When we were growing up our mum was known for her flower gardens, and we’ve always been interested in plants and flowers, so this seemed like a natural progression.

“Mum is very creative and she is helping us with the silk arrangements. She’s probably our biggest influence,” Sandi said.

And as the old saying goes, Mum always knows best. For more details about Canterbury Flowers, call 342-0383. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

March 28, 2008

Local skier Ben Thomsen brings home coveted cup

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By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Invermere local Ben Thomsen is celebrating after being crowned the men’s overall Pontiac GMC Cup winner in Quebec on Sunday, finishing with 606 points.

At the tender age of 20, Ben is already in his second season as a full member of the men’s B. C. Team.

He has chalked up an impressive list of results, including third junior at a Lake Louise Nor Am and ninth at a Nor Am super G at Apex, B.C. A former pupil at David Thompson Secondary School, Ben represented Canada at the World Junior Championships last year and had four top-five junior results at the Canadians last season.

“This season I came in and earned three Pontiac GMC Cup victories, and I’m super excited to take home the Pontiac Cup. It’s the biggest win I’ve had so far,” Ben said.

“My goal is to make the Canadian development team next season. You never know, so I am just going to focus on skiing fast and taking advantage of the opportunities as they come,” he said.

Both Ben and the women’s winner Erin Mielzynski, from Guelph, Ontario, received $5,000 in prize money from General Motors of Canada for their performance on the Pontiac GMC Cup series this season.

Geared towards the development of Canada’s future champions, the Pontiac GMC Cup series featured 16 races in four provinces during the 2007/08 season.

Next on Ben’s agenda is the Provincial Cup in Rossland, B.C. which starts on April 3rd. Then he’ll start his off-season training in about three weeks, which involves training for six to eight hours a day in the gym.

He will be based in Invermere most of the spring and summer, although he will also be in Fernie and Whistler depending what team he’s on.

And Ben has grand ambitions to excel in his ski career.

“My goal is to place in the top five in a Nor Am event this year and make the national development team, then win an overall Nor Am title and make the “C” team,” he said.

And if that wasn’t enough, Ben also wants to compete in the World Cup, win a World Cup and win an overall on the World Cup. He’s lucky he’s been able to count on his dad Glenn Thomsen, who has given him plenty of support and coaching over the years.

“It’s been a great season for Ben and a really rewarding year for him,” Glenn said.

Ben comes from a ski-fanatic family. His mum Shelley was a coach on the Windermere Valley Ski Club team for 12 years, and his sister Kristen, age 23,

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CELEBRATIONS — Invermere local Ben Thomsen clinched the men’s overall Pontiac GMC Cup on Sunday, and joined women’s winner Erin Mielzynski, from Guelph, Ontario, on the podium.

was also a competitive skier when she was younger, before she moved into figure skating.

Dad Glenn is head coach of the Men’s B. C. Ski Team, although he just announced his retirement earlier this month after seven years. He plans to move back up to national coaching with development of young skiers.

A former member of the Windermere Valley Ski Club himself, Ben says his other interests are kite boarding, dirt biking and guitar hero.

Ben enjoys travelling around and skiing in lots of different places, and says his favourite ski hills are Portillo in Chile and Apex in B.C. General Motors of Canada has supported Canada’s elite amateur ski racers since the inception of the Pontiac Cup series in 1969. The speed events took place in Whistler in February, and the technical events took place in Quebec City last week.

Spring Detoxification Program Includes an information session covering: • The need for detoxification • Signs and symptoms of toxicity • The physiology of detoxification • Benefits of cleansing • Overview of the program • Side effects of the program

The program lasts 4 weeks (starts April 15th) and includes: • • • • • •

One 45 min consult with a licensed naturopathic physician One 15 min follow up halfway through the program A diet plan that includes • A cleansing tea Supplements prescribed on an individual basis Home treatments to maximize the benefits of the program Optional weekly meetings with participants to share: • Experiences • Recipes • Offer support and motivation Location: The College of the Rockies Invermere Campus Date: Tuesday April 1st , 2008 • Time: 7pm Fee: 5$ for the information session New Patients $300 for the detoxification program + GST

THE PIONEER The valley’s only locally owned, locally operated newspaper

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

STEVEN PALMER Christ Church Trinity

With sp eci guests t al h O’Sulli e van Family

CD Release Tour

110 – 7th Avenue, Invermere

Monday, March 31st 7:30 p.m. (Doors at 7 p.m.)

Tickets $1500 SILENT AUCTION

Available at these locations: Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials, Trims & Treasures (Fairmont Hot Springs) and at the door.

www.spmusc.ca

Celebrating the legacy of mountain guide

CONRAD KAIN 2009 marks the 100th anniversary of his arrival from Austria, when he became the first professional mountain guide for the Alpine Club of Canada.

Conrad Kain set new standards during the Golden Age of Canadian Mountaineering and established an enviable collection of first ascents, new routes and guiding achievements, all accomplished in the best style of the day. During his short, but illustrious life, the diminutive Kain befriended a wide spectrum of society, and showed a respect for nature rare for his time.

Join us in celebration on April 4th, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. for the 1st Annual Conrad Kain Mountain Film Night J.A. Laird School in Invermere, BC

www.conradkain.com

DIETS DON’T WORK. MEETINGS DO. Weight Watchers is not about deprivation. Our meetings teach you how to eat right and live healthy, so you can lose weight and keep it off.

Join us at our location in:

Columbia Valley

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, 5225 Fairmont Resort Road

Thursday evening 5:30 p.m.

For more information and additional locations/ meeting times most convenient for you.

Call 1 866-323-6611 or visit WeightWatchers.ca

Join now and get a FREE Shortcuts cookbook*.

Offer available with the purchase of 5 weeks of Weight Watchers or more from March 23rd – April 26th *Cookbook offer available to all joining and current members in traditional meetings in Atlantic Canada, Southern Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec only. Prepayment of full amount required. New and rejoining members will pay the applicable registration fee when joining. Not valid for Special Services meetings or At Work. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Non-transferable. ©2008 Weight Watchers International, Inc., owner of the Weight Watchers registered trademark. All rights reserved.

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

Pine Ridge Mountain Resort will open a sales office on 7th Avenue, top; while Effusion Art Gallery, bottom photo, is under construction across the street.

Changes on Main Street The empty lots on Invermere’s Main Street are filling up quickly as new businesses prepare for the summer season.

In the top photo, a small building next to High Country Properties on 7th Avenue will house the sales office for Pine Ridge Mountain Resort.

Pine Ridge Mountain Resort over Lake Windermere is a 700-unit Resort Community located within the boundaries of the District of Invermere.

Pine Ridge vice president Jon Dick said the sales office will be completed by April 12/13 for a soft grand opening, with the official grand opening on May long weekend.

The office will be open just on weekends until 1st June, then every day through June, July and August.

Mr Dick said he was thrilled to have a sales office in downtown Invermere.

“Right now, we’re operating from Calgary, and we’ve been making trips back and forth to Invermere, so it’s very exciting that we’re going to have a presence in the main street where a lot of tourists and locals go shopping,” Mr Dick said.

And below, the building next to Canterbury Flowers will open as Effusion Art Gallery in Invermere on May long weekend.

Effusion is the brainchild of Kate Fess and glass artist Heather Cuell and will feature 35 artists from across North America. Local artist Meredith Hackler will display her own work there from September 12th until 23rd.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

March 28, 2008

Golf season begins Copper Point General Manager Brian Schaal gives a few pointers to a young golfer, Cody Brunner of Invermere. Copper Point hosted an event last Saturday to raise money for the Big Horns Football Club.

Copper Point will open to the public today, March 28th. Golf courses are set to open, weather permitting, any time over the next few days and weeks.

Photo by Dave Sutherland

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PAUL ROGGEMAN (250) 341-5300

Fax (250) 345-4001

paul@rockymtnrealty.com

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SEAN ROGGEMAN (250) 341-5445

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24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

Pack up the pesticides for a safer home Submitted by Elaine Wallace Canadian Cancer Society The Columbia Valley Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society has teamed up with Wildsight’s Invermere branch and concerned citizens, physicians, teachers, parents, businesses, athletic coaches, environmentalists, and avid gardeners to form the Pesticide Free Co-

lumbia Valley coalition.

The coalition is working together to reduce the cosmetic use of pesticides in the Columbia Valley.

Pesticides are substances intended to kill or otherwise

control insects, weeds, fungi, or pests. They can be over-the-counter products or special chemicals not easily available to the public. Examples include herbicides that kill weeds or insecticides that kill bugs.

The ‘cosmetic’ use of pesticides means pesticides that are used to enhance the appearance of private gardens and lawns, as well as parks and golf courses.

There is growing evidence linking pesticides to certain types of cancers, including leukemia, brain cancer, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and some lung cancers.

Children are especially vulnerable due to their underdeveloped immune systems and more permeable skin as well as their behaviors such as playing on the lawn, and putting objects in their mouth.

Many pesticides harm a number of non-target species, including birds, fish, animals, plants and beneficial insects. Toxic pesticides leach into the aquatic environment and affect water quality and fish.

Pets come into direct contact with lawn and garden pesticides much more frequently than humans. Whether it’s rolling around in the grass or playing with a frisbee, pets can be directly exposed to pesticides. Pets can also track pesticides indoors.

Pesticides are persistent, meaning they can remain in the environment for long periods. Many pesticides require sunlight to help them break down and so, once inside, they require a longer amount of time to break down. For example, residue of 2,4-D, the active ingredient in many herbicides, has been found present in carpets a full year after outdoor application!

The Canadian Cancer Society calls for a ban on the use of cosmetic pesticides. To date, nearly 140 Canadian municipalities, as well as Quebec, have passed legislation banning or regulating the cosmetic use of pesticides. There are 12 in B.C. including communities such as Burnaby, Nelson and Vancouver.

Alternatives to pesticides We can reduce their exposure to pesticides by: • Pulling weeds by hand • Using non-toxic solutions such as insecticidal soaps, borax, neem oil, vinegar or corn gluten • Adopting healthy lawn practices such as aerating, over-seeding, mowing high and watering infrequently To provide the public with more information, the Pesticide Free Columbia Valley coalition is hosting a Healthy Lawn and Garden Fair and “Packing up the Pesticides” Community Forum on April 17, 2008 at David Thompson Secondary School. Attendees will learn about alternatives to pesticides, how to maintain a healthy lawn and garden without them, and what is being done to influence the various levels of government for tighter regulation of cosmetic pesticide use.

You will also hear from experts of the health community about how pesticides affect us. The fair will begin at 4:30 p.m. and the forum will begin at 7 p.m. The high school chef program will be selling an organic dinner with proceeds going to the greenhouse project and Leisa O’Sullivan’s children’s choir will perform.

For more information, go to www.pesticidefreecolumbiavalley.ca.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

March 28, 2008

Local woman checks out genetic link to cancer

Wendy Jensen of Invermere is looking into gene research to discover more about her family history with cancer.

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff Most people with a family history of cancer don’t know about the Hereditary Cancer Program.

But when Wendy Jansen of Invermere heard about the B.C. Cancer Agency’s program, she decided it might be worth investigating.

Because of a family background of breast cancer, Wendy, age 49, has been going for mammograms yearly for the past 10 years and has recently had an ultrasound as another precaution.

“I just wanted to find out if I’m at high risk of getting cancer in the future, and what I might be able to do about it,” she said.

“I want to get the awareness out there to let people with a family history of cancer know about genetic counsel-

ling,” Wendy said.

She went to Cranbrook earlier this month for genetic counselling by video conference with Cheryl Portigal-Todd.

Wendy will then be sent out a transcript of her results, and she can choose to have blood tests if she wants to take it any further.

“I never knew the Hereditary Cancer Program existed before. I just want to find out if I’m a carrier of the cancercausing gene or not,” Wendy said.

Genetic counsellor Cheryl PortigalTodd explained the Hereditary Cancer Program was formed when the B.C. Cancer Agency and the B.C. Provincial Medical Genetics Program got together to provide information and genetic counselling for individuals and families with a strong history of cancer.

The Hereditary Cancer Program at the BC Cancer Agency was established in 1996, and serves both B.C. and the Yukon.

Genetic counselling at the Hereditary Cancer Program is available by videoconference for people living in the Columbia Valley as well as other areas of British Columbia.

“Educating doctors, nurses and other health-care providers in B.C. about hereditary cancer is an important part of the Hereditary Cancer Program. As this is still a new field, research about all aspects of hereditary cancer is another key aspect of the program.

“The Hereditary Cancer Program can benefit people who have a significant family history of cancer, including individuals who may or may not have had a cancer diagnosis,” she said.

“Most cancers are not due to a hereditary or inherited risk, but some kinds of cancers are seen more frequently in families,” Cheryl said.

Anyone who has had a cancer diagnosis can make an appointment with the Hereditary Cancer Program at the B.C. Cancer Agency to find out more information about cancer risk.

They can also get general information about how cancer can run in a family.

The appointment may also involve a discussion about genetic testing, as well as recommendations for cancer screening and risk reduction strategies.

People in the Columbia Valley who are concerned about inherited cancer risk can discuss their family history with

their doctor, and arrange to be referred to the Hereditary Cancer Program at the B.C. Cancer Agency.

“The best time to participate in genetic counselling and have a discussion about someone’s family history of cancer certainly varies from person to person, and can depend on the history and experience with cancer for each individual within a family.

“If genetic testing is being consid-

ered, a detailed discussion about the potential benefits and drawbacks of participating in genetic testing, as well as the limitations of genetic testing would be a very important part of a genetic counselling appointment,” Cheryl added.

For more information call the Hereditary Cancer Program at the BC Cancer Agency at 1-800-663-3333 or visit www.bccancer.bc.ca and look under “prevention.”

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

Ski team second in province!

From left, David Thompson Secondary School students Michael Brush, Jamie Norcross coach Trish Phillips, Cody Klim, James Rose, Kai Rassmussen, Dane Petersen and Dan Rae are celebrating after placing second at the ski provincials in Smithers. Dane Petersen finished third, James Rose was fourth and Jamie Norcross was eighth in the giant slalom race, and Michael Brush finished third overall. “This is a relatively young team with great potential for future years,” said their coach.

Matt LeBourdais reaching for the stars

By Rachel Pinder Pioneer Staff

Matt LeBourdais, Number 11.

It helps to be tall when you’re a volleyball player.

But at 6 feet, 9 inches, Invermere’s Matt LeBourdais is head and shoulders above the rest, which has helped him reach new heights with the University of B.C.’s Thunderbirds.

Matt is the tallest team member, and is one of 12 players chosen for the Second All Canadian Team. Aged 22, Matt is due to graduate in five weeks with a degree in human kinetics.

He was voted as one of the top six players for the all-stars’ first team in the Canada West competitions, and was also the only one on the university team to be placed on this year’s number one all-star list.

“It was quite surprising, but it’s great to be recognized as one of the top players,” Matt said.

The Thunderbirds won silver at last month’s Canada West finals. The B.C. team beat Winnipeg but lost the gold to the favourites, Alberta.

The top four provincial teams from

the west went up against the four best from the east, which was the University of B.C.’s second straight appearance at the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Tournament after having not qualified for the championship in 18 years.

The team last won a national championship in 1983 and will have to continue their search for a title next season without Andrew Bonner, and Canada West first-team and Canadian Interuniversity Sport second-team allstar Matt LeBourdais, as both players donned the blue and gold for the final time on March 2nd.

In his final year of eligibility, Matt earned himself a first-team Canada West all-star selection, finishing fifth in the conference in hitting percentage, ninth in blocks, and third on the ‘Birds in kills’.

Matt was not only dominant up the middle this year, but he also spent some time as an outside hitter, filling in for an injured Andrew Bonner.

But he was a little bit disappointed with how the season went.

“We finished fifth but we definitely thought we had a chance of winning

it. But overall, the season has been a lot of fun,” Matt said.

Before going to the University of B.C. in Vancouver, Matt played for Coach Schick on the Canadian Junior National Team and spent two seasons with the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook, where his squad finished third and fourth at the British Columbia Colleges Athletics Association’s.

In 2004-05, he was named the team’s Most Valuable Player, a secondteam all-star and an Academic AllCanadian. Matt was a pupil at David Thompson Secondary, and in Grade 12 he was named the school’s athlete of the year.

Matt hopes to play professional volleyball in Europe after he graduates. In the meantime, he plans to spend the summer playing beach volleyball in Vancouver.

“I’d like to play some professional volleyball in Germany or Belgium, and I definitely see myself playing volleyball for a few years while I still can.

I also may want to get into coaching, but for now I’ll just see where it takes me,” Matt said.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

March 28, 2008

The Old Zone: 2008 final standings

By Harold Hazelaar Pioneer Columnist The past two weeks, you have had to endure the musings of Kerry and Brent, who felt the need to attempt to sully my efforts to provide some humor and insight into OldTimers’ hockey in the Columbia Valley.

Luckily my skin is pretty tough and their opinions make absolutely no difference to me. Envy is an awful thing to live with and I wish them both the best in their efforts to deal with this terrible affliction.

This week we thank Rob Mason, owner/operator of Huckleberry’s Restaurant and sponsor of the Huckleberry Hawks. They were the class of the league, even though they didn’t win. They were, without a doubt, the most-traveled team in the league. New Zealand, Florida, Thailand, the Super Bowl, Montreal, a Caribbean cruise . . . why would these guys even register for hockey? Hey, their caps look good, don’t you think?

Well, another season of OldTimers hockey has come to an end. I have enjoyed sharing my thoughts with you over the past season and after a short break, I will return with similar writings in The Green Zone, a weekly column, with my take on golf here in our Valley and the sport in general. Thanks for reading and I hope to see you on the tee-box.

And, finally, just in case you care . . . The Playoffs: Final Standings!

Mar. 14 results: The Wolves beat Inside Edge, Da’Mudders beat Huckleberry’s, Kicking Horse beat Valley Vision and Hi Heat beat Petro Can. Congratulations to the Lake Auto Mustangs! (Anybody other than the orange guys!)

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CVOHA LEAGUE PLAYOFFS - 2008 FINAL STANDING TEAM

WNS

LOSSES

TIES

POINTS

Lake Auto Mustangs

6

0

2

14

Warwick Wolves

6

1

1

13

Hi Heat Hustlers

6

1

1

13

Dale Christian Mudders

4

4

0

8

Huckleberry Hawks

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5

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Inside Edge Black Smoke

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6

Valley Vision Vultures

2

5

1

5

Kicking Horse Coffee

2

6

0

4

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes

1

6

1

3

HUCKLEBERRY HAWKS— Back row. left to right: Stacy Szabo, Bruce Willox, Greg Dubois, Jim LeBourdais, Brian Anderson, Dean Martin, Tim Traverse. Middle row: Larry Ballard, Brent Taylor, Harold Hazelaar, John Swallow. Front Row: Rob Mason. Pete Nicholas and Neil Woelfle were absent when photo was snapped.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

VALLEY PIONEER

Doris and Borge Langerud’s missionary life

By Dorothy Isted Pioneer Columnist Octogenarian Doris Langerud had questions as a child that, like Alice in Wonderland, made her curiouser and curiouser. Her mother wasn’t much help, simply saying she would understand more when she got older. Doris remembers thinking about God a lot: why she couldn’t see Him. She was born in Trail in 1926, the second of 12 children to Melvin and Dagmar Sutton. At first her father Melvin operated general stores in Trail, Kaslo and then in Hinton Trail, Alberta, near Beaverlodge. But dad eventually “went broke store-keeping in the hungry thirties,” so they went homesteading. After eight years of school it was time to get a job, at 15. Because she was shy, Doris chose work where she could stay in the background: babysitting, cleaning homes and offices. Later she worked in lunch counters. One day her father sent her to the Scotfruit Warehouse in Dawson Creek with a message for her brother Ray. There she was introduced to his co-worker Borge (pronounced with a soft g: boor-gie)Langerud. They married in December 1944 and lived in Dawson Creek where he had a job as a carpenter. At the time, neither gave much thought to the idea of Borge being called upon for war duty. They were young and in love, he had two older brothers who were already overseas with Candian forces, and as long as he had remained on the farm he was considered to be working in essential services.

It was a shock to both of them when, the month after their wedding, he got the letter requesting his service to the country.

In January 1945 they clung to each other at the train station for as long as possible, both in tears. Doris remembers the conductor addressing them rhetorically, “Why do we have to have wars?”

Borge promised he would come home as often as possible. Just as he’d finished his advanced Infantry training and was due to be shipped overseas, the war ended. He was honorably discharged in June 1946.

While Borge was away in training, his family took Doris to hear a woman preach about the Easter story. Her questions about God were answered, the pieces all fell into place and she believed. Borge had been raised in the Christian faith but had never been passionate in his views. In January 1947 things changed and he got intentional about their religion.

The Langeruds purchased almost two quarter-sections of land near Dawson Creek and farmed for a while, staying with Borge’s parents in the winters, then in a tent and then a granary they built until they were able to get a house on the property.

The next few years saw them leading “religious house meetings” in Rose Prairie, north of Fort St. John. Then they pastored churches in Manning, Alberta and Dawson Creek, B. C. During this time they adopted the first of their three children, a 27-monthold boy. The social worker warned Doris she would likely have to spend two to three weeks with the child before she was allowed to bring him home, in order to help him get accustomed to her.

She flew down to New Westminster in 1951 and was invited to stay for lunch at the foster home. When the foster mother told little Lavern to go get his bib and get ready for lunch, he brought his bib to Doris for her to put on him.

Later that afternoon, when he knew it was time for a diaper change, he took Doris by the hand into the bathroom for her to help him. The social worker called that evening to see how things were going. The foster mother informed him Lavern seemed to have decided he was “just her boy.” They flew home the next day. Lavern instinctively knew he had found his mommy because he never displayed any emotional distress. He was a very happy little boy.

Both Doris and Borge had a growing desire to be missionaries but told no one. “We had been praying that God would open the door for us to do mission work.” So when a friend called them and said he and his family were Continued on next page. . .

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

March 28, 2008

VALLEY PIONEER

The little girl who was curious about God . . . Continued from previous page

LANGERUDS— Opposite page, top, Dorothy Langerud in Miss Oatway’s class. To her left is brother Eddie who died of double pneumonia when he was 15 in 1939. Doris is the girl with the shoes; bottom, Borge in the infantry in 1945. Above, top, Wells of Joy Gospel Center in Edmonton in 1955 and, bottom, Doris, Borge, Janet and Randy in Jamaica around 1970.

going to Jamaica to do mission work and he believed the Langeruds should come along, that was all they needed.

After receiving their passports in 1958, the family drove in their 1953 International pick-up truck all the way to Florida. Their friends, the Poloviches, including son Kerry who was a good playmate for Lavern, followed in their own vehicle. Their car was left in Florida and the truck was put on a ship to Jamaica while the families flew there.

The Langeruds did this “on faith,” not even knowing for sure what they would be doing when they arrived at their destination. For the first nine months, Borge preached throughout Jamaica. Over the years, the couple helped with the work in various denominations. They also developed and ran a bible school that is still in operation.

In 1965, while visiting one of the churches, Doris and Borge were asked by a married but very poor couple if they would adopt their 18-month-old daughter.

They were astonished at this and their initial reaction was to deny the request, finding it unthinkable to take a child from its parents. The mother explained to them that little Janet had fainted due to hunger. The Langeruds said they would pray about it and after a while they told them yes. Doris says she couldn’t stop thinking about that little one being so hungry.

At first Janet required extra care and special food so her system could adapt and get healthy. “We kept in contact with her natural parents and they were able to watch her grow up.” Janet’s natural father worked in a bakery when he could get work and did whatever else he could to support his family but it was never enough. They lived in a humble, spotless little home.

When Janet was 13 her natural mother died and the Langeruds invited her father and siblings to stay in their home for a while. Janet is now a nurse in Florida and the mother of four children.

Though the Langeruds had more than those around them, they were by no means well off. Doris said they never had a salary. Jamaican church people, “brought us eggs, bananas, plantains, produce. . . that was the way we lived all the time. They paid us [like this] in tithes. When they gave money it was to the church, for the upkeep of the church.” Borge and Doris helped those they visited and shared their food with them and gave out clothing that had been sent from abroad. Money the Langeruds received mostly came from strangers and people in North America who knew them. For they were there on a faith basis, requesting every morning of God, that he would supply their needs. “If we saw someone who was in dire need we helped when we could. They were poor people.

Someone would ask if Borge would come and preach and he would agree by faith, even if we didn’t have the money up front for the trip. The money would always arrive in some manner.”

At one time the family suffered from poor health brought on by living in a damp and mildewed home.

A woman they did not know contacted them and said that she felt in her heart that they should live in a second home she owned. The rent was more than the Langeruds thought they could pay, but she said, “If you trust God for the rent, I will trust God and you can move in.”

“One time, we were praying God would supply our needs but no cheque or money order came in. The rent was due the next morning but nothing so far. We sent Lavern to the post office for our mail. He brought back a letter from a missionary in northern Canada who said God had laid it on his heart to send us this money. I can recall only having met him one time before. It was enough for the rent.”

In late 1965, the doctor advised the Langeruds to get away for a rest because they were “worn out.”

Doris explained how they came to adopt their third child. “Janet was playing in a kids’ pool. A woman came walking with this little boy in her arms. I said, “What a cute little boy. If he was for adoption, I’d have to have him!” She said, “He is!” She was a foster mother and she was praying for Christian parents for him. Borge and I slept on it that night and the next morning we were so excited and we told the lady we would take him. We felt it would be fair to Janet to have little brother to grow up with, as Lavern was already in his late teens. Borge and I were in our forties and having small children around was not a problem as we were so happy to have them.”

It was time to return home in 1982 because of family matters and they felt that their mission was complete. It was hard to leave behind all their many friends. They returned to the land that two brothers, George and Brede, had been farming for them at Monteny, north of Fort St. John. They sold the farm and lived for a time in Oosoyoos. Borge passed away in April 2007, one month after they moved into Columbia Garden Village in Invermere.

Doris has 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She occupies herself these days with attending church and the weekly bible study held at Columbia Garden Village. She knits for the Happy Hands group that donates items for different needs. There is still a large missions presence in her life as Doris corresponds with and supports several missionaries.

The little girl who was curious about God has had a lot of her questions answered over the years. She is looking forward to “the day when I will be with Borge again.”

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

March 28, 2008

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32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

March 28, 2008

Pee Wee team third in province

By Cheryl Bachinski Pioneer Columnist Our Invermere Eagles Pee Wee team is back from a very impressive third-place ďŹ nish in Chase at the Provincials.Invermere competed against teams from Chase, Whistler, Beaver Valley, Revelstoke and Fort St James.

Our ďŹ rst game was against Revelstoke, who proved to be a powerhouse team with a couple of sniper players. We fell to an 8-1 loss with our lone goal being scored by Xavier Knuckey.

Invermere goalie Brody Nelson barely had time to catch his breath between line changes, as Invermere spent a lot of time killing o penalties, which made Brody’s job a lot tougher.

Next up was the Beaver Valley team who entered the tournament as a solid contender for ďŹ nishing ďŹ rst. The game was a close one, lots of end-to-end action The Eagles, shown here with The Pioneer in Chase, put in a great eort to end the season in third place. Team players, not in order, were: with both goalies getting a work- Xavier Knuckey, Stephen Hawes, Colin Ross, Brody Nelson, Jordan Bachinski, Kellen Marchand, Damon Raven, Levi Konchak, Eddie out. Beaver Valley pulled o a 6-3 Ede, Hunter Ede, Conrad Marshall, Daniel Smith, Sawyer Logan, James Wiley and Mitchell Prentice. win with Invermere goals by Xavidy did everything but stand on his head to keep the he held Whistler scoreless. Brody played the ďŹ rst half er Knuckey and Kellan Marchand who banged in two. The Eagles then faced o against Eagles in the running. Goals were scored by Stephan of the third and then switched o again with Jordan, the home town team, netting a decisive 6-2 win over Hawes, Colin Ross, Hunter Ede and Conrad Marshall. who faced two Whistler breakaways, stopping them in Chase. Goals were scored by Hunter Ede, Stephan Our ďŹ nal game was against Whistler, and, wow, what their tracks. Daniel earned his keep on the blue line. It Hawes, Conrad Marshall, Damon Raven and two by a game it was. The Eagles were soaring and banged was a great opportunity for these two young men, to Kellan. Brody had an excellent game in net, allowing home an incredible 13-4 victory, with nine Invermere attend the Provincials and share in the Eagles’ teamwork and excitement. players contributing on the scoring.

Invermere to play aggressively and secure the win.

Invermere ďŹ nished up with a tie for third over all, The Eagles invited two Pee Wee house players Fort St. James was up next, and once again both congratulations to the team for an incredible tournaalong with them to the provincials, Daniel Smith on teams played an exciting end to end game with lots of chances from both teams. Despite Invermere’s solid defense and Jordan Bachinski in net. Jordan was given ment. Congratulations to Beaver Valley who were unteam eort, they were defeated by a score of 7-4. Bro- the nod to guard the net in the second period where defeated at the tournament!

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34 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS OBITUARY FELICITY (PHYLLIS) NICHOLAS With hearts full of sorrow, The Akisqnuk First Nation announces that beloved Elder, Felicity (Phyllis) Nicholas passed away on March 18 after a short time in hospital. Her funeral services were held at the Akisqnuk First Nation on Thursday, March 20th .

Phyllis was born on the Columbia Lake Indian Reserve (now Akisqnuk First Nation) on August 1, 1927 to Dominic and Sophie Nicholas. Her long life was filled with love from her children Toby, Wilbur, Murray, and Delores; and grandchildren Quanah, Keith, Priscilla, Donovan, and Charles.

Phyllis was well known for her warm heart, strong work ethic, and helpful nature, exhibited by her time on Band Council in the 1970s and many years spent as a fruit picker in B.C. and Washington State. In the mid-1980s when wheelchair athlete Rick Hansen passed through the area as a part of his ‘roundthe-world trip, Phyllis took special care to make sure he received a pair of buckskin gloves she made to help Mr. Hansen on his journey.

Phyllis later volunteered her time at David Thompson Secondary School, working in the Elders-in-school program teaching traditional knowledge. Phyllis was a regular visitor of the kids at the Akisqnuk Rediscovery Camp, held summers at Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park and assisted with Ktunaxa language classes at Akisqnuk.

In 2005, Phyllis and a handful of her friends and family made an important voyage to Sicily to see the final resting place of her brother Toby, an Akisqnuk First Nation member who was killed in the Second World War while fighting for Canada.

Phyllis was well loved throughout the Kootenay region and beyond. She remained an active member of her community right up until the end of her life, attending Band meetings and many Elders gatherings. Honourary pallbearers at her funeral were Sam Paul, Leo Williams, Frank Sam, Paul Sam, Herman Alpine, and Don Sam.

THANK YOU

STORAGE

The Nicholas Family would like to thank everyone who helped during our loss of Phyllis. Your kindness was appreciated.

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Thank You We would like to thank the Radium Fire Department for attending to our chimney fire so promptly on Easter. Thanks to Jane and Brian for phoning in the alarm.

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BC Builders has attained exclusive rights to offer panelized home packages, supplied by one of the largest positioned suppliers in western United States. We are all aware of the benefits of the strong Canadian dollar with respect to purchasing goods in the US. Now similar benefits may be reflected in the purchase of your new home. We offer complete custom design services or will build to your plan. We are also able to offer great flexibilty on specifications and products we supply.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

March 28, 2008

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS WANTED

MISCELLANEOUS

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Exotic Steel Art Rare and strange forms

By Roy Mackey www.flamingsteel.com

Heavy-half, 1989 Ford Lariat 4x4. Towing, air bags, winter tires, (propane tank 50 gal/ 226 L), $2,800.00 OBO. Call Ross at Walker’s Repair, 342-9424.

1993 Mercury Topaz parts for sale. Good winter tires and bodywork. No rust. Offers, call Rachel 688-5305, after 6:00 pm.

Someone with trailer or towbar willing to transport vehicle from Banff as cheap as possible.

Call Rachel 688-5305, after 6:00 pm.

MISCELLANEOUS Old sheds FREE to anyone who can take them away. Located on Lake Lillian, 403-270-3008.

Top soil, call Elkhorn Ranch at 342-0617.

Buy factory direct! Selling all Stock! Making room for summer retail. Double, Queen and King mattress sets still in plastic are available at 50% off. Full warranty included. We deliver.

For details contact Christy at Mountain Ridge Distributing, 403-609-9426.

Like new 2004 Chev Malibu hide hitch. Phone for info 342-9210.

Single-axle utility trailer with steel sides, 5’ x 10’, $550.00.

Hardly-used quality fibre glass canopy for Dodge 8’ box, needs rear window glass, $1000.00. 4 rims off 1994 Cadillac, $50.00 each, 354-6424.

1 ½ farm type welded gate. Two sections 74” x 33” each. $60.00, call 341-6043.

Nine month old new Kenmore white stove. Not self-clean, $250.00 OBO, 342-8728.

SNOWMOBILE FOR SALE 2002 Skidoo Summit 800. Great shape, great running condition!

With extras. $4,200.00 firm, call 342-5336 or 403-519-5063.

MOTORCYCLE FOR SALE 1974 850 Norton Commando also 1973 Honda CB 350 “F”, 342-3159.

1998, 21’ Ford Royal Expedition motor home, fully loaded, ready to go. Located in Windermere, 403-589-1765.

1998 F150 extended cab 4x4, 4.6 L, 215,000 km, excellent condition, box liner, $8,000.00 OBO, 342-0377.

2001 Chevy 1500HD crew 4x4, 194,000 km, fully loaded, new brakes/windshield, excellent condition, $16,900.00 OBO, 345-4538.

2004 Nissan Murano SE, AWD, one owner, fully loaded, wellmaintained, $27,900.00. Call 342-5247.

BOAT FOR SALE 24’ Crestliner pontoon boat.

115 HP, 2 stroke, Merc tamper package, tandem trailer included, $24,999.00, 250-3452164.

1991 Larson Senza, 17 ½ ‘, 115HP Johnson, trailer, fishfinder, cover, excellent condition $8,200.00 OBO, 342-0377.

MOTOR HOME FOR SALE Pinnacle High Rise 34’ Motor Home, 50,000 km, Onan Gen., A/C, TV Ant., oak Cabinets, fully Loaded, excellent condition, $22,000.00, 250-341-8430.

342-5914

SERVICES

Requires Experienced Cooks and Servers

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

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

in Radium

Call 342-1666 Fax: 341-3453

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

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

Apply in person to Invermere Petro-Canada.

G.E. Twigg and Associates Ltd. Strata Managers Is seeking proposals for

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

Please fax resume with references to: Diamond Heating and Spas FAX: 342-7103 Mail to: Box 86, Athalmer, BC V0A 1A0 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com

Grizzly Mountain Grill

TENDERS VEHICLES FOR SALE

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

1998 29 ½’ Jayco 5th wheel trailer, super slide awning, excellent condition, $18,500.00, no GST, 250-345-2164.

CAREEERS 1995 LEXUS LS400, 245k, silver, leather, best car I have ever owned, $9,995.00, call

FIREPLACE INSTALLER, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

The maintenance of the grounds of Strata Corporation NES 2518 “Eagle Crest”

Located in Radium on Edelweiss St. and Eagle Crest Lane

We’re not just building a Resort… We’re taking the time to create a new culture of Customer Service Excellence.

It’s time for a new and challenging career! Want to be a part of constructing a great team? Do you thrive in a results oriented team environment? Make your mark opening the valley’s newest full service Luxury Resort. Be recognized for your passion for Exceptional Customer Service! Know you will be treated as well as our guests.

Now accepting applications for Managers & Supervisors positions in;

Guest & Owner Services Spa & Fitness Maintenance

Housekeeping Food & Beverage Childcare

The proposal should include all aspects of lawn, shrubs, and plant maintenance including maintenance of the irrigation system and fencing for protections of shrubs.

Tell us how you deliver great customer service and why you belong on our team.

Apply now with Copper Point Resort… It’s time

Further information contact G.E. Twigg and Associates Ltd., 3A 492 Arrow Road, Invermere, BC Phone: 342-9223 • Fax: 341-3683

Email: ebennett@copperpoint.ca Fax: 250-341-6291 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 960, Invermere, B.C V0A 1K0

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS CAREEERS

CAREEERS

CAREEERS

CAREEERS

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Free Golf! Retired, but not tired? Spur Valley Golf Resort requires P/T and F/T propshop attendants, customer – service oriented, who like a fun atmosphere. Fax resumes, 250-347-6500, attention Bob, or email info@spuvalley.com.

Housekeeper required. Fulltime, part-time at Fairmont Bungalows. Call 345-6365, fax 345-6348, or email bungalows@ shaw.ca

Assistant to sales manager required for Heron Point sales centre opening in Invermere March 22/08. Ideal candidate will be personable, goal oriented and enjoy working with people.

Real estate experience not required. Part time leading to full time in summer months.

Must be available to work flexible hours. Excellent remuneration package. Email resume to sales@heronpointinvermere.ca or fax to 250-342-9595.

Log Life Styles require insulators, drywallers, tapers, labourers, shinglers, painters, and stoneworkers to work in Edgewater. Hourly or piece work, call 403-617-9402.

Anglz Hair and Tanning Studio is for sale. Located in the Windermere Valley in Invermere BC it’s just 2 1/2 hours from Calgary. Anglz Hair & Tanning Studio is a well established salon for 10 years. It’s a busy salon with high traffic, full retail and full clientele. It has 4 stations, a tanning room, manicure/ pedicure/waxing room, laundry/bathroom and large seating area. It has a total of 1100 square feet of space.

Owner is willing to stay on as chair rental. Serious inquiries only. Maria, 250-342-3227.

Lordco Auto Parts in Invermere is currently seeking full-time and part-time drivers, and a shipper/receiver. Wages DOE, drivers must have clean abstract.

Full-time positions are entitled to full benefits. Apply in person to James at Lordco in Invermere.

Grounds Maintenance Personnel.

Terra Vista Condominiums. April 1st to October 15th . $15.00 $16.50/hour, 40 hours per week.

Great work environment. Email resume to terrav@telus.net or fax 342-3005.

Part-time kitchen help in Radium. $13/hr to start. Call 341-6241.

Gallery Curator – Full-time Summer The Columbia Valley Arts Council are looking for a Gallery Curator to assist in administrative matters and responsibilities to fulll the HRDC summer program. Such staff person will work under the direction of the Gallery Manager. Duties range from assisting with hanging, installing, and displaying the Gallery Shows, promote summer programs and events, cash handling & nancial transactions, assist in registrations, and supervise volunteers and front line sales in the Gift Shop and Gallery.

Hours of work: 40 hours per week. Rate of pay: depending on experience. Qualications: Must be a university/college student. Interest in arts an asset. Business experience an asset. Mature, responsible and quick-thinking. Sense of humour a must! Start of employment: May 1st, 2008.

Columbia Valley Arts Council Contact: Jami Scheffer – Manager, Gallery & Administration Box 2345, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone: (250) 342-4423 • E-mail: info@columbiavalleyarts.com

Columbia River Greenways Alliance seeks Executive Director – Contract Position The Columbia River Greenways Alliance (CRGA) is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Executive Director to lead and manage our organization during a period of project expansion and board development.

The successful candidate must have: • • • • •

strategic planning, management, fundraising skills and experience excellent communication skills a strong environmental ethic experience working with non-government organizations, and stakeholders relevant educational background and/or equivalent experience

(CRGA) is a federally registered charity whose mission is: to create the Upper Columbia Trail Network within the Columbia River Greenway linking our communities and providing non-motorized recreational experiences that integrate ecological, economic and community health and well being.

Located in Invermere BC, the work of the CRGA spans the length of the Upper Columbia Valley from Golden to Canal Flats.

For detailed information of the Executive Director position visit www.greenways.ca Please submit a resumé, cover letter, and three references by April 10th, 2008 to: CRGA Hiring Committee PO Box 2874 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Or e-mail Word documents to: vlhogg@cyberlink.bc.ca – refer CRGA/ED

Picturesque Painting

has employment opportunities for experienced painters and helpers. Great pay, fun environment. Call Andrew, 250341-7229.

WANTED HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR FOR BUSY VACATION RENTAL OFFICE IN RADIUM HOT SPRINGS • Do you provide cleaning services year round?

• Do you want to expand your service area and client base?

• Do you take pride in your work?

• Are you organized, flexible, and able to work well on your own?

If you answer YES to all of these questions, we would love to hear from you! Our growing vacation rental business in Radium Hot Springs needs someone like you to coordinate cleaning schedules and to ensure the units we have under contract are always ‘guest ready’.

Are you ready? If so, please call

David or Cecilia at (250) 347-6900.

ROCK WORKS LANDSCAPING is seeking help for the 2008 season starting mid April.

Competitive wages, flexible schedules. Must have driver’s licence. Experience an asset, willing to train, 342-5676 or email resumes to rockworkslandscape.com

SPOT THE DEALS

Pioneer Classieds

FIND YOURSELF IN THE MOUNTAINS THIS SUMMER WORKING IN CANADA’S AMAZING NATIONAL PARKS!

VENEZ PASSER VOTRE ÉTÉ DANS LES MONTAGNES EN DÉCROCHANT UN EMPLOI DANS LES SUPERBES PARCS NATIONAUX DU CANADA

Parks Canada Agency Term Employment Opportunity Visitor Service Attendant, Gates & Campgrounds Lake Louise, Yoho & Kootenay Field Unit $20.87/ Hour

Agence Parcs Canada Possibilité d’emploi pou une période déterminée Préposé/Préposée aux services aux visiteurs Postes d’entrée et terrains de camping Unité de gestion Lake Louise/ Yoho/ Kootenay – 20,87 $ l’heure

If you live within 250km of Lake Louise, AB, join our Visitor Services team at campgrounds and entry gates to welcome visitors and contribute to their enjoyment!

Personnes résidant dans un rayon de 250 kilomètres de Lake Louise, Alberta Prestation de services aux visiteurs aux postes d’entrée et dans les terrains de camping dans le but d’encourager la fréquentation et le plaisir des visiteurs.

Applicants must clearly indicate they meet the following established criteria. Failure to do so may result in your being screened out.

DO YOU HAVE: • High school diploma according to provincial standards, • Cash handling experience including sales/cash out reports; • Experience in providing customer service to the public; • Experience cleaning in commercial settings.

Both English Essential and Bilingual Positions are available.

(Arrangements will be made for the administration of the Public Service Commission Second Language Evaluation (SLE) to test candidate’s oral ability in French or English as necessary.)

EMAIL your resume and cover letter quoting competition number 08-PKS-LLYK-OC-014 to: Human Resources, llyk.hr@pc.gc.ca APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 4:00 p.m., MARCH 30, 2008 For further information contact: Janet Klock C/V/H Coordinator 403.522.1269 janet.klock@pc.gc.ca We thank all applicants; however only those selected for future consideration will be contacted.

Les candidats feront l’objet d’une présélection fondée sur les critères énoncés ci-après et ils doivent montrer clairement qu’ils satisfont à ces exigences, à défaut de quoi leur demande pourrait être rejetée.

AVEZ-VOUS: • Diplôme d’études secondaires conforme aux exigences provinciales.

• Perception des recettes y compris les rapports de ventes et de dépenses; • Prestation de services aux clients; • Nettoyage dans un milieu commercial.

Anglais essentiel et position bilingues disponibles(S’il y a lieu, des mesures seront prises afin de vérifier les habilités orales des candidats en français ou en anglais par le biais de l’évaluation de langue seconde (ELS) de la Commission de la fonction publique) EMAIL votre curriculum vitae et lettre d’accompagnement en précisant le numéro du processus de sélection 08-PKSLLYK-OC-014 à: Ressources humaines llyk.hr@pc.gc.ca LES DEMANDES DOIVENT ÊTRE REÇUES AVANT 16 H, LE 30 MARS 2008 Pour obtenir des renseignements additionnels: Janet Klock, Coordinateur CSVMVP 403-522-1269 janet.klock@pc.gc.ca Nous remercions toutes les personnes qui postulent, cependant nous ne communiquerons qu’avec les candidats choisis pour la prochaine étape de sélection.

Tu Ph upi

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

March 28, 2008

Win tickets to a Flames Game!

Travel World, our local travel agency in Invermere, has generously donated a night at a Calgary hotel and two tickets to a Calgary Flames game to the winner of our Pioneer Travel Photo Contest.

Simply take a copy of The Pioneer with you when you are away on holidays, send us a copy and have it published in The Pioneer. At the end of 2008, we will draw the winning name.

The contest is open to valley residents and/or homeowners only. Due to the large volume of photographs submitted, there will be only one entry per person.

In the photo at left, Judy Sauve-Wilkins, Kim Frocklage, Nicole Dumonceaux and Linda Brookes took an old copy of The Pioneer with them, showing a front page photo of Nancy Wilfley’s son with the headline “Keeping It Cool.” Nancy works with Linda Brookes at the Invermere Health Unit.

P IONEER C LASSIFIEDS Summer Reporter (4 months)

Senior Reporter (8 months)

Job Description:

Job Description:

T

his is a great opportunity to practise your professional skills while spending the summer in our gorgeous resort community. This is a four-month position starting May 5th, 2008 to assist our staff during the busy summer.

T

his is a great opportunity to practise your professional skills while living in our gorgeous resort community. This is an eight-month position only from June 1st, 2008 to February 2nd, 2009.

We are an award-winning independent newspaper with high standards, both for content and appearance. We work hard, we have a great team, and we love our community.

We are an award-winning independent newspaper with high standards, both for content and appearance. We work hard, we have a great team, and we love our community.

Our print run is 8,000 copies each Friday. We also produce several annual tourism and real estate publications.

Our print run is 8,000 copies each Friday. We also produce several annual tourism and real estate publications.

We offer a competitive salary, mileage allowance and the use of a new Mac computer and a digital camera.

We offer a competitive salary, mileage allowance and the use of a new Mac computer and digital camera.

Qualifications:

Qualifications:

As a Summer Reporter, you will be currently enrolled in a journalism program, or a recent graduate. Our staff will provide as much training and mentoring as time permits.

As Senior Reporter, you are expected to have a journalism diploma or degree, plus several years of experience. We require a self-starter who needs little training and can immediately become a productive member of our seven-person staff.

The ability to cover stories and write well is of primary importance, followed by photography skills. The ability to lay out pages with Adobe InDesign would be a bonus. You must have a driver’s licence and access to a car. Before applying, familiarize yourself with The Columbia Valley Pioneer at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Send your resume, with references, and a couple of samples of your news writing and a cover letter to :

The position begins June 1st. Before applying, familiarize yourself with The Columbia Valley Pioneer at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com. Send your resume, with references, two or three samples of your news writing and a cover letter to: Publisher Elinor Florence at elinor1@telus.net If you have questions, please call her at (250) 341-6299 before applying.

Publisher Elinor Florence at elinor1@telus.net.

If you have questions, please call her at (250) 341-6299 before applying.

Please be prepared to travel to Invermere for an interview if requested.

The ability to cover stories and write well is of primary importance, followed by photography skills. The ability to lay out pages with Adobe InDesign would be a bonus.

You must have a driver’s licence and access to a car.

N E W S PA P E R

Please be prepared to travel to Invermere for an interview if requested.

N E W S PA P E R

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

• SALES • SERVICE • SPA & POOL CHEMICALS • WATER MAINTENANCE VISITS • FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIAN

Drop by for a test soak in our new

SPAtacular Showroom!

ENTER OUR 20 IN 2008 DRAW First 20 Spas qualify to receive $ 200800 back on Spa purchase

Phone: 250-342-3922 Endorsed by

Pioneer on the road Top: Marlene Chabot of Invermere in Palm Springs with a copy of The Pioneer in which Kent Kebe proposed to Marlene’s friend Lydia Helmer.

www.dynastyspas.com • ecosmartspas.com • 503 - 7th Avenue • Invermere

Country Gospel Music with a Message March 28th, 29th & 30th

Right: Jayme and Zac Saunders goof around in Maui. Nice shells, Zac! Bottom: Ken and Bonnie McMillan of Fairmont Hot Springs beside the Obregon Fountain in Melaque, Mexico, a winter haven for many British Columbians.

Just a word of advice, folks: set your cameras to take and store a large photo. If you see a small Travel Photo in The Pioneer, it’s because we couldn’t enlarge it without losing quality. Good luck and happy travelling!

Crystal is a Nashville Recording Artist & Song Writer

Herb & Crystal Taylor

Delivering a Crystal Clear Message of God’s Redeeming Love through a Singing and Preaching Ministry.

Radium Christian Fellowship invites you to The Prayer Center #4-7553 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs at 7 p.m. on March 28th & 29th Sunday, March 30th at 7 p.m. at the Brisco Community Hall Clear your calendar for this blessing.

For more info, call Wayne or Linda at 342-6633 or Linda at 342-6359 Please let us know if any groups will be attending.

Have something to say? – Letters to the editor can be e-mailed to upioneer@telus.net

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

March 28, 2008

Valley Churches

FAITH

Standing in front of the empty tomb

By Sandy Ferguson Windermere Valley Shared Ministry On Sunday, Christians around the world celebrated the mystery of Easter the heart of the Christian faith. Through the events of Holy Week, we witness the revelation of God among us. All that is familiar and tired is swept away as we stand in front of the tomb, listening in amazement to the angel proclaiming that, “He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said.”

And through this celebration, we are challenged with the reality that the resurrection of Christ Jesus is an event which calls us to action.

God is acting to show the world that there is always reason for hope, reminding us that we are not alone in the world, because God will always be with us, loving us. And, so, we are called to go out into the world to share this gift, to renew the hope of those who feel trapped by the struggles and limitations of this world.

What clearer example of how God’s love revealed through Christ Jesus will change the world. Two women, people who in the time of Jesus would have been considered the least, will be the first to proclaim to the world, “Hallelujah, Christ has risen!” Once more, there is reason to hope!

After all, if Jesus had been merely interested in impressing the so-called ‘important people’ of the world, surely the first people he would have appeared to after

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

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

the resurrection, would have been the leaders of the Temple, or Pontus Pilate, or maybe even the emperor of Rome himself. They would have gotten things done and changed the world by a decree or by passing a law.

If Jesus had appeared before such people, the world would have no choice but to accept that Jesus is truly the Son of God, and therefore should worship him.

But Jesus is not that kind of Messiah. The Good News of God’s love that he reveals is not something to be forced on the people. It’s not something that can be proved by a very public appearance and impressing everyone. It’s not a question of saving the world by passing a decree or a law. Instead it’s a question of faith. When we hear the story of the resurrection, our response should be based on faith, faith that God loves us so much, that God acts so we will make a willing choice to proclaim Christ the Messiah. Jesus saves the world by changing our hearts, by opening our hearts so we will feel the presence of God in our lives and be changed by the experience.

So, what does it mean for us to stand in front of the empty tomb? Are we ready for our lives to be changed by this revelation of God’s love? Are we ready for the challenges that lie ahead for us? After all Easter is only the beginning of the story. Now we are called to go beyond the empty tomb to share with the world the Good News that God is with us. As the angel says, Jesus has gone ahead to Galilee, there you will see him.

Are we ready to follow?

A Great Selection of Gifts for Aspiring Dancers at…

Wednesday, April 2 , 2008 7:00 p.m., Christ Church Trinity 110 – 7th Avenue, Invermere nd

All interested are invited to attend.

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY Sunday, March 30th: 10:30 a.m. Morning Worship, Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644 www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday: 10 a.m. Sunday Service Children’s Church during the message part of the service.

Highway 93/95, 1 km north of Windermere • 342-9511 ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Canadian Martyrs Church, Invermere Saturday 7 p.m. Mass • Sunday 9 a.m. Mass St. Joseph’s Church, Hwy 93/95 Radium Sunday 11 a.m. Mass St. Anthony’s Church, Canal Flats • Sunday 4 p.m.

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.

7 p.m. Evening service the first and third Sunday of the month, Brisco Community Hall.

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

Relief Society, Noon.

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

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

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

1229-7th Ave., Invermere

WE SELL REAL ESTATE

• Radium • Invermere • Panorama • Windermere • Fairmont

342-6415

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

rayfergusonrealty.ca

OUTDOORS IN THE SPRINGS SUN

The Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, March 30th: 10:30 a.m. Celebration Sunday.

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

For sermons online: www.sermon.net/lwac Pastor Jared Enns • 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535

7.72 view acres on Toby benches. Perfect for hobby farmers, gardeners, horse and outdoor folk. Comes with 3 paddocks, hay barn, shop and home.

$849,000 MLS# K167826

INVERMERE CHRISTIAN SUPPLIES Selkirk TV & Appliances Ltd. “Serving you since 1971” MAIN STREET • INVERMERE (250) 342-6415

WHAT GOES INTO the MIND TM COMES OUT in a LIFE

40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 28, 2008

2008 GMC/CHEV SWB 4x4

6

Only

Vortec V8 Engine - Auto Transmission - 40/20/40 Split Cloth Bench Seat - Deep Tint Rear Glass - Carpeting w/Floor Mats - Air Conditioning - Cruise COntrol - OnStar - CD/MP3 Player - 265/70R17 Tires - Chrome Appearance Wheels - Chrome Surround Grille - 5 year/160,000km Factory Warranty & Much, Much More! Stk#13047/12972/12859/12848/12847 & 12836. MSRP $31,445 (Chev) or $31,665 (GMC)

TAKUER YO CK PI

26,399

$

Includes any/ all factory and/ or dealer rebates

1142 – 304th Street, Kimberley, B.C. V1A 3E1 KIMBERLEY (250) 427-4895 CRANBROOK (250) 489-2525 C H E C K

U S

TOLL FREE

1-800-388-1156

e-mail chaletgm@shawlink.ca

O U T

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HOURS OF OPERATION MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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

Remember... it’s a SHORT DRIVE to BIG SAVINGS!

w w w. c h a l e t g m . c o m

There is a new,

The 2008

EXHILARATING

sports sedan in town!

Mazda CX-7 Everything about the bold, athletic styling of the CX-7 promises an exciting driving experience. And it’s impressive engineering doesn’t disappoint!

• 10 Best Engines Award – Ward’s Auto World Magazine • Best Buy Compact/Mid-sized SUV – Consumer Digest • Best Value Category – Machine Design • Best Popular-Priced CUV Interior – Ward’s Auto World • 10 Top Concept Cars – Automotive News Magazine

Your Kootenay Authorized Mazda Dealer.

TRADES WELCOME DL#11562

Drop in to Cranbrook Mazda today and see for yourself.

Herb Amaral Jorge Garcia Karen Bidder

Travis Butz

Sales Manager Sales Consultant Financial Services Sales Consultant Manager

• www.cranbrookmazda.com • 250-426-3133 • 888-616-1555