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The Columbia

March 6, 2009

Valley

P ioneer

Year Round Dining!

Seeeee page 14

2500-3342-66560 250-342-6560

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

copper point fails

LOCAL HERO 3 sewage surplus

A little girl nearly died at the Hoodoo Lounge and Grill after choking on an escargot. Luckily, manager Jeni Higgins stepped in and performed the Heimlich manoeuvre, saving the life of eight-year-old Natasha Wood. For the full story, see Page 8.

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

AGM Valley NEWS

Thursday March 19th – 7:00 p.m. at Pynelogs Cultural Centre

• Election of Officers • Review of Financial Position • Reception to follow Come out and support your community Arts Council.

Everyone Welcome!

It’s a Boy! Jake Michael Laurence

MORE FOOD—Dr. Mark Zehnder poses with a Great Horned Owl wearing a sling on his broken wing.

Rescued owl: feed me

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff

250-341-1114 support@moondancetechnology.com

A Great Horned Owl at the Invermere Veterinary Clinic needs help.

The hospital is seeking food for the owl, which was rescued by veterinarian Mark Zehnder two weeks ago after he was alerted by a family living in the Juniper Heights area.

When Dr. Zehnder arrived at the scene near Highway 93, he found the once-majestic creature frightened, injured and starving.

“He had a compound fracture in his wing – meaning the bone was sticking out of the skin,” he said.

The owl underwent surgery to repair its wing and is now recovering. Although things are going well, the animal is not out of the woods yet.

Dr. Zehnder said the bird still runs the risk of developing infection, and is being given antibiotics.

Once the injury has healed, the bird will begin training to build up his strength, and eventually be released back into the wild near Juniper Heights.

But, Dr. Zehnder said, the process will take time and the bird will be a resident of the vet clinic for a couple of months.

The hospital is already running low on food to feed the bird and is asking anyone with relatively fresh – or frozen – dead mice, squirrels, pack rats or birds to drop them off at the Invermere Veterinary Hospital.

Food for the owl must have been trapped – not shot or poisoned – to ensure the safety of the owl from lead and any other toxic substances. For more information, please call the Invermere Veterinary Hospital at 250-342-7007 or simply drop off any donations.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

March 6, 2009

Valley NEWS

Copper Point Resort in receivership made by investors still lay in trust with the Cranbrook law firm of Steidl Kambeitz, purchasers of the suites and a list of more than two dozen creditors might not Last Thursday, on February 26th, two days after see their money any time soon. news broke that two Calgary condo purchasers had As the court-appointed receiver of all the resort’s filed a class-action lawsuit against The Resort at Cop- assets and properties, Larry Prentice, a Vancouverper Point to recover their deposits, the high-profile de- based partner of Ernst and Young, says it is too soon velopment entered into court-ordered receivership. to tell what is going to happen.

A message on the company’s voicemail and a note “We are in day three of receivership,� Mr. Prentice taped to the door of the resort’s sales office at Park- commented on Tuesday. “At this stage, we’re still, very side Place in Invermere now refers all inquiries to the much, getting in and getting oriented.� court-appointed receiver.

Mr. Prentice, who already has a team on the Despite the claim which still appears on the resort’s ground, said he will arrive in the valley this week to website, “With over 82 percent already sold there is no take a look around. In a best-case scenario, he said, risk of the project not finishing,� on Sunday, March the development would be sold to a new owner who 1st, the resort sent a letter to individuals who pur- would bring the project to completion, honouring exchased more than half of the 107 unfinished suites, isting contracts and obligations. citing an inability to refinance “I think that would be the the development as the cause of “Despite our best efforts to best and most appropriate outthe failure. come,� he said. “We’ll have to secure additional funding “The Copper Point Resort wait and see what the market has had to contend with sigwill bring and who is owed to see the project through nificant and unforeseen cost money. We expect we’ll see a to a successful conclusion, overrun challenges during constrong amount of interest, but no solution could be found.� struction, all of which culmithe proof is always in the pudnated in tremendous pressure ding when you go to market.� being placed on the financing for the development,�

With financing harder to come by, he said, the the letter reads. “Given the challenging economics of problems that brought down The Resort at Copper the project, the only way it could realistically be com- Point are not unique. pleted at this time was through a sharing of additional “There are a great number of real estate projects costs required to do so. Despite our best efforts to se- that are under stress around the province,� Mr. Prencure additional funding to see the project through to a tice commented. successful conclusion, no solution could be found.�

A shock wave rippled through the development The receivership affects only the unfinished resort. community last week when news broke that CanThe Copper Point Golf Club and The Ridge at Cop- more’s Three Sisters Mountain Village had entered per Point will continue business as usual. into receivership.

In response to the lawsuit filed last week on behalf The sprawling, 800-hectare resort was acquired in of two Calgary residents, former General Manager 2007 by Denver-based East-West Partners and MorRose-Marie Regitnig was quoted by the CBC televi- gan Stanley Real Estate. sion news in Calgary defending the resort – already a “Three Sisters was a big surprise,� said Richard year past its expected date of completion – promising Haworth, Vice-President of Development at Fairmont that it would be finished by this summer.

Hot Springs Resort.

On Tuesday, she refused to comment, stating simMr. Haworth, who consulted the Copper Point ply: “I am no longer employed by Copper Point Re- development in its early stages, said Fairmont Hot sort. Since the resort has entered into receivership, I Springs Resort, which embarked on a massive $1-bilam no longer their spokesperson.� lion expansion a year ago after the resort was acquired Although the letter to investors states that deposits by Ken Fowler Enterprises, is investing in its food serBy Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

vice and golf operations until conditions improve. “We’re in no trouble down here,� Mr. Haworth said. “We’re simply waiting out the storm.�

Billed as the Columbia Valley’s most exclusive mountain getaway and only all-suite resort, The Resort at Copper Point was owned by five partners: Hank Swartout (former Chief Executive Officer of Precision Drilling Income Trust), Keith MacPhail (CEO of Bonavista Energy Trust), Grant Fagerheim (President and CEO of Kereco Energy Ltd.), Dean Forbes (Resort Developer) and Ron Mason (described on the company website as an entrepreneur and visionary).

When completed, the resort will feature 36 holes of golf, 107 all-suite guest rooms, dining, lounge, spa, fitness facility, day care, conference facilities, cafÊ, clubhouse, driving range, year-round indoor and outdoor geothermal pools, green spaces, sport court and children’s play areas.

According to reports, Mr. Forbes left the ownership group in December. At that time, the resort announced it was halting construction and hiring efficiency experts to restructure the operation. In February, Ron Mason, long-time face of the Copper Point family, sent an e-mail to contacts stating he was no longer involved with any of the companies owned in part by Hank Swartout. Ms. Regitnig confirmed that included The Resort at Copper Point. Mr. Mason requested that all future inquiries be directed to Paul Partlo, president of Windermere Water and Sewer.

Mr. Partlo said none of the other businesses owned

by Hank Swartout and partners, including Copper Point and Ridge Golf Courses, Windermere Water and Sewer Company, Parr Utilities, Point Developments (which owns all of the land surrounding The Resort at Copper Point) and NanoFibre Networks, would be affected by the collapse of The Resort at Copper Point.

According to Mr. Partlo, all the companies are independent of each other with unique management structures. Although Windermere Water and Sewer Company was formed originally to supply water and sewer to The Resort at Copper Point and surrounding residential developments, it has since developed its customer base to include the communities on the east side of Lake Windermere. “The only way it affects us,� he said, “is that we temporarily lose (the resort) as a customer. We’re moving forward on all our projects.�

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

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In a dramatic turnaround from just months ago, the Columbia Valley is now a renters’ market.

A local real estate agent confirmed that the valley is currently seeing a large number of rental properties due to the slowing economy.

Eric Redeker, a managing broker for Royal LePage Rockies West Realty Ltd., who specializes in property management, timeshare resales and residential/recreational real estate, said he is seeing 25-percent vacancy compared to zero-percent vacancy just a few years ago.

“The supply is steadily increasing and demand, unfortunately, has decreased,” he said. “The main reason is the economic slowdown in the valley. Construction is slowing down, there are not as many seasonal workers coming into the valley because tourism is down a bit – everything is slowing down.”

Mr. Redeker, who has been in business for 14 years, said that this is unlike anything he has ever seen before.

“Because of the slow economy, there are not a lot of new people moving here,” he said. “It is always difficult to find suitable tenants, but it is harder this year and last year than in years before.”

Pioneer classified advertising manager Michelle McGrogan spotted the trend. In this week’s classifeds, she said, there is a total of 37 rental properties advertised, including commercial space, shared accommodation, suites, condos and homes. This time last year, there were only eight properties advertised for rent.

Tami Szabo is a local landlord looking for someone to rent the one-bedroom suite in her home. Tami said she has advertised before, but it has never been this difficult to find a tenant.

“I do notice what’s different is that this time, there are far less people calling than usual,” she said. “Normally the phone is ringing off the hook; right now that’s not the case.”

Tami said she, too, thinks the lack of demand for rental housing is due to the slowing economy.

“People are getting laid off and moving away,” she

said. “Where people normally have seasonal workers, many are leaving.”

Rick Crowson is trying to rent out his home in CastleRock. After being laid off from his position as head golf professional at Copper Point, Rick and his partner Diane Dealy moved to Penticton where, come summertime, Rick will begin working at Nk’Mip Desert Canyon Golf.

He said because of the slow market the couple is finding it increasingly difficult to get rid of their home in Invermere.

“It’s been on the market since the beginning of February,” he said. “The house is for sale, but with the market the way it is, we are finding it impossible to sell the house. So, we were forced to go the rental route, which we did not want to do, but it’s better than getting nothing.”

Now, the couple is having trouble even finding renters for their home.

“The home is in CastleRock, so it is not as appealing to the local kid who wants to rent a house,” he said.

“We are looking for professional people to rent the house and there’s not a huge number of those in Invermere as well.”

Although many people have noticed the trend, Dave Wing, landlord at the Tuk Inn in Radium Hot Springs, said that, for him, it hasn’t been the case. He currently has no vacancies at the Tuk Inn. “People have noticed the slowdown because their homes are not priced right for the market,” he said.

“You have to be flexible. Anything is better than nothing. The market is changing, so you’ve got to go with it.”

He believes the slow market will force rental prices down. According to Mr. Redeker, Mr. Wing’s prediction might be right on.

“Right now rental rates have decreased by ten or 15 percent,” he said.

Mr. Redeker said he believes the market will settle down over the next two years because supply will slowly be eaten up by people moving into the area.

“The only market that might remain slow is the condo market because of the large supply,” he added.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

March 6, 2009

Rescue process solid here

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff A cross-country skiing death in Golden last week has caused Columbia Valley authorities to examine their own rescue practices.

Marie-Josee Fortin, 44, died of hypothermia on February 22nd, nine days after she and her husband, Gilles Blackburn, ventured out of bounds at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The couple drew several SOS signs in the snow to attract help. Those signs were reported twice, but RCMP did not launch a rescue until Mr. Blackburn was spotted by a helicopter pilot on February 24th.

The RCMP in B.C. has announced an internal review to determine what went wrong in the process.

In the meantime, Columbia Valley RCMP is taking stock of procedures to ensure a similar incident could not occur here.

“At the very least, this has let us bring the issue to the table so all detachments can check they are solid on

procedure,” said Staff-Sergeant Doug Pack.

While he described the Golden case as “tragic,” Staff-Sergeant Pack cannot directly comment on the incident because of the review. “The Golden issues will come out in the fullness of time,” he said. “I can only speak to what we have done here in the past.”

And the track record in the Columbia Valley is good. “There is not anything in recent memory where we have had systemic failures,” Staff-Sergeant Pack said. “We have a good relationship with Search and Rescue and that is the important part. We know each other and we work well together.”

Steve Talsma, manager of Columbia Valley Search and Rescue Society, explained that the procedure for rescue is the same here as it is in Golden. “The procedure is the same across the province,” he said. “Search and Rescue can be requested by the RCMP, BC Ambulance, or fire departments.”

Mr. Talsma said Search and Rescue are called by one of those agencies if the

case is beyond the agency’s area of expertise.

“The procedure is the same if a member of Search and Rescue saw something,” Mr. Talsma added. “They would still have to go through the RCMP. They would let us know whether to proceed.”

Staff-Sergeant Pack said that any information that a rescue could be needed spurs a thorough investigation.

“It has to be checked out to the point that we are satisfied it is either: a) a serious incident and rescue should be mounted; or b) taken as far as it could go,” he said. “There is a system in place to ensure the search is conducted properly.”

Columbia Valley RCMP and Search and Rescue train and exercise together, Staff-Sergeant Pack said, and that could be why they have a good track record.

“In cases here, we have had good cooperation, success and management of the search. That doesn’t mean it always has a happy ending. But that’s not because of a systemic failure.”

Stay safe in the bush

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff Columbia Valley Search and Rescue manager Steve Talsma and RCMP Staff-Sergeant Doug Pack offered some tips for back country adventurers: • Tell someone where you are going. Steve said it’s best to tell a friend or family member. Even better, give them a route plan and tell them what you are taking with you.

Your age and back country experience can also be invaluable to search and rescue efforts.

• If you get lost, use a mirror to attract rescuers, and light a fire.

• The provincial website www. adventuresmart.ca has a two-part pamphlet: one half is a form to leave with a friend, the other half is a checklist of what to bring with you.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

perspective

March 6, 2009

This, too, shall pass

By Elinor Florence Pioneer Publisher Have you noticed how the people who are most fatalistic about the looming recession are those over 50? Their wisdom is borne of experience.

I was among those legions who survived the Alberta recession in the 1980s. Well do I remember those halcyon days when we were all young and had money in our pockets. On one memorable occasion, my sister, who was working as a “jugger” in the oil patch, bought a round for the house at the Highlander in Calgary, for a couple of hundred patrons. (“Thank goodness the waitress only served them draft,” she recalled the next morning).

And then came the fall. We had just finished paying off our house after making double mortgage payments for five years, when overnight, the house was worth about 75 percent of what we paid in the first place.

But we considered ourselves lucky next to another guy in my office. He and his wife sold their house for less than they paid for it and moved with their newborn baby into a basement apartment, where they continued to pay both the rent and the mortgage on a house that no longer belonged to them. Back then personal bankruptcy was considered shameful.

The other day I was talking to a retired couple who survived the downturn in the 1980s by growing a garden, tightening their belts and living on next to nothing. It took three years, but their business survived and eventually thrived again. Three years out of a lifetime ain’t bad.

And even our experience pales in comparison to what our parents lived through – a world war and a depression. Sure, it was brutally hard, but they survived and went on to enjoy peace and prosperity in their old age.

What goes down will come back up again, and hopefully the younger generation will be a little sadder but a little smarter about money.

And who among us doesn’t experience a tiny thrill of satisfaction (the Germans call it “schadenfreude,” for which there is no exact English translation, but it means “taking pleasure in the misfortunes of others”) when we see the cheats and gangsters who were running Wall Street finally brought low?

During the last recession, half-ton trucks sported this bumper sticker: “Please, God, let there be another oil boom. I promise not to piss it all away this time.”

Well, there was another oil boom, and people did piss it all away again.

Such is the way of the world.

Historical Lens MINING HISTORY—The Mineral King Mine Rescue Squad, pictured above, were back-to-back winners, in 1962 and 1963, of the East Kootenay Mine Rescue Competition. From left to right are Jim McGee, Lloyd Smith, Ken Salbowden, Burt MacConagie (captain), Ed Barrington, Larry Baccey, and Ralph Wismer. Mr. Wismer, we believe, is the sole survivor of this group. Mineral King Mine, a lead-zinc mine, operated between Toby Creek and Jumbo Creek out Toby Creek Road, west of Invermere. It closed in 1967.

Photo submitted by Ralph Wismer

Help keep Whiteway white Dear Editor: On the February 14th weekend we took our two young children to skate on the plowed skating path on the lake starting at Kinsmen Beach. What a beautiful setting to skate. Cheers and thanks to those who have created a beautiful pathway to be used by skaters and walkers.

But “jeers” to the many irresponsible dog-owners who have not picked up the waste left behind by their animals. It was an unpleasant sight.

More importantly, we and many others swim in the lake in the summer months and could not believe the lack of responsibility and respect of those who left the waste to fall into the water after the ice breaks up.

While we were there, a dog did its busi-

ness on the path and the owner just left the waste on the path (great to skate or walk through). Disgusting, and a complete lack of courtesy for others using the paths now and who will swim in the lake in the warmer weather.

We were upset enough that we went out the next day, and as we skated along the path we stopped to collect in bags the waste that we could dig out of the ice and snow. We collected two grocery bags of waste that we then put in the garbage.

To all dog-owners using the paths on the lake ice, please pick up the waste left by your dogs, just as you would (hopefully?) do on the streets of the town.

Brian Foster and Lisa Morrison Invermere/Calgary

The Columbia Valley

Pioneer is independently owned and operated and 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 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

Brian Geis

Sally Waddington

Cayla Gabruck

Dave Sutherland

Zephyr Rawbon

Michele McGrogan

Publisher

Editor

Reporter

Reporter

Advertising Sales

Graphic Design

Office Manager

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

March 6, 2009

Whiteway fabulous, used at all hours Dear Editor: Congratulations to the Village of Invermere and the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club for providing and maintaining this fabulous recreation area. To see so many people, young and old, using the area and recreating in so many ways is refreshing to say the least. There is not a daylight hour goes by that someone or several groups are not on the track

utilizing our wonderful lake.

It has not been an easy winter to maintain this track but it has been maintained regularly and to a very high standard. Skaters, skiers, joggers, walkers and even bicycle riders are keeping the area in contant use.

Hopefully, this will become a tradition.

Bill DuBois, Windermere

RCMP need to admit mistakes, improve system Dear Editor: Knowing Gunner Jorgensen, it was not surprising to read his sharp comments on RCMP behaviour. He definitely hit the nail on the head. Period.

The taser incident at the Vancouver airport was not a plus. It was a major snafoo to say the least. The question of what had they done . . . not having the right weapon? Possibly the pepper spray? At that close distance, a shot or two and the victim would have been totally incapacitated. If it can defuse an 800-pound grizzly, a person would have been no contest.

It’s most obvious that the RCMP

are fascinated and anxious to experiment with this new toy to observe the suspect’s reaction. It’s costing the taxpayers a pot full of money on this major cover-up. To admit their mistakes is against their religion.

As stated by Gunner: “What happened?” Which way are we headed? It doesn’t look too good to me. Considerable time, effort, and money has been spent attempting to cover their butts.

We would much appreciate a more sincere effort in improving the system – which we definitely deserve, instead of this misguided effort. It’s long overdue.

George Guimont, Fairmont

Snowmobilers, please stop chewing up Bugaboo Road Dear Editor: Anyone who is wanting to snowmobile at Rocky Point in the Bugaboos, please be advised that the Bugaboo Road (forestry road) is ONLY plowed to the one-kilometre point with no turnaround. The rest of the road has not been plowed all winter. All vehicles and trailers need to park at the junction of the West Brisco Road and Bugaboo Road.

A number of trucks have been stuck and have chewed up the plowed one lane we use. This makes it very difficult for us to get out each day without a lot of work.

This road has not been plowed for snowmobilers to the 11-kilometre mark for three years.

We appreciate your consideration.

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Correction Installed recently, the new secretary of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch

71 in Invermere is Faye Riches, not Richie.

www.nanofibre.ca • (250) 347.2424

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Local server saves young girl’s life

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff A local server is being credited with saving the life of an eight-year-old girl near Fairmont Hot Springs.

On Valentine’s Day, Jeni Higgins, manager of the Hoodoo Lounge & Grill, successfully administered the Heimlich manoeuvre, saving Natasha Wood of Calgary from choking.

“I am incredibly grateful that Jeni was able to step in,” said Pat Wood, Natasha’s mother. “In a day and age where people turn a blind eye, she didn’t hesitate; she just stepped right in to help out. It changed our Valentine’s Day. It could have turned out a lot differently.”

The family of four – Pat, her husband John and their two children, Ryen, 10, and Natasha, 8 – are permanent residents of Calgary but have a second home in Fairmont. Pat said the family are full-time residents in the summer and visit the valley about twice a month in the winter. They frequently have dinner at the Hoodoo Grill.

“That night we came early,” Pat said. “The Hoodoo doesn’t take reservations, so we knew we had to come early or we wouldn’t get in.”

The family was seated quickly, but told that due to the high volume of customers, their meal would take a bit longer.

So Pat and John had a drink while they waited.

They also decided that, since it was a special occasion, they would let their kids order appetizers.

“Ryen’s favourite appetizer is escargot,” Pat said.

“When it came, Natasha asked if she could try one and Ryen said no. This prompted her to place an or-

Eight-year-old Natasha Wood with her brother Ryen. der for escargot, as well – something she wouldn’t normally do.”

When Natasha’s order of snails cooked in their shells arrived, she dove right in. It was Pat, sitting next to her daughter, who first noticed she was choking.

“Suddenly I looked over at her and she wasn’t even making a noise,” Pat told The Pioneer.

“She was looking at me with this look of panic in her eyes and gestured to me that she was choking. I just thought, ‘I have to do something!’”

Immediately, she pulled Natasha up from her seat and began administering the Heimlich manoeuvre, squeezing her abdomen from behind to release the blocked snail, but repeated attempts failed.

At this point, Jeni, one of the family’s servers, was walking past the table to place a drink order. She watched as the mother tried unsuccessfully to save her child. By this time several servers and most of the pa-

trons were looking at the scene in horror.

Jeni, who has been trained in first aid, realized the mother was failing to dislodge the snail because her hands weren’t in the right position.

“I thought, ‘Oh, my God, this little girl is going to die in the middle of the restaurant,’” Jeni said.

“So I yanked her out of her mom’s arms and gave her the Heimlich three times.”

On the fourth try, the escargot came flying out of Natasha’s throat and the little girl gasped for air.

“I was so surprised that she didn’t even cry,” Jeni said. “She said, ‘Thank you.’

“Then I asked her if she wanted me to take her plate of escargot away. She said, ‘No, thanks, I’ll eat it!’”

Natasha’s mother said the little girl was uncomfortable about all the attention. “She was just embarrassed that everyone was looking at her,” she said.

Looking back on the situation, she said she can’t bear to think about what could have happened if Jeni hadn’t stepped in.

“It’s amazing when you are confronted with an event like that – it happened so quickly you don’t have time to process it,” Pat said. “For my husband, immediately following it he was absolutely a mess. He couldn’t believe how helpless he felt.”

Jeni said she doesn’t feel like a hero. “I just did what was right,” she said modestly.

But Pat disagrees.

“Nowadays not everyone steps up to the plate, and it sure is nice to see there are people who do when you need them,” she said. “She is our Valentine’s Day sweetheart. We are not going to forget her for many years to come. She is definitely a hero.”

“I love working at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.”

“It’s a great place to work and the benefits are amazing! Work here and you’ll get a sports pass for free golf, hot pools, skiing, and discounts in our restaurants, shops and spa. You’ll even get a free lunch!” — Tanya, Spa

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has lots of great employment opportunities. Are you reliable, friendly and service-oriented? You should apply for a job here! Here are just some of the positions that are currently available, starting in March, April and May:

t Server t Dishwasher t Front Desk t Pools

t Bartender t Sous Chef t Housekeeping t Guest Services

t Cook t Esthetician t Grounds Maintenance t Pro Shop Attendant

To apply, please send your resume with references to: David Sheedy: e-mail hr@fhsr.com, fax 250.345.6616, or call 250.345.6004.

fairmonthotsprings.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

March 6, 2009

Norm Macdonald kicks off re-election campaign Submitted by Adrian Bergles Vote Norm Macdonald Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald will kick off his Columbia Valley re-election campaign with a rally of supporters at the Akisqnuk First Nation Band Hall.

Confirmed speakers at the event include: Akisqnuk First Nation Councillor Jesse Nicholas; District of Invermere Councillor Spring Hawes; Kootenay East MLA candidate in the May 12th provincial election Troy Sebastian; and Macdonald himself.

The kick-off from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 14th will be a chance for MLA Macdonald’s supporters in the Columbia Valley to come together and celebrate before the work of the campaign begins. Everyone is welcome to attend.

“I am looking forward to being in the Columbia Valley on Saturday the

14th,” said Mr. Macdonald. “Holding the kick-off at the Akisqnuk First Nation provides a unique opportunity to bring constituents in the area together.”

March 14th also marks the beginning of Mr. Macdonald’s door-to-door campaign.

“I plan to knock on as many doors as I can between March 14th and election day on May 12th. I want to spend my campaign time out talking to people about what matters to them.”

Since Norm Macdonald won over the Liberal incumbent in 2005, he has fulfilled his campaign promise to provide a strong voice in Victoria.

The former teacher and mayor of Golden serves as the Opposition Critic for Education. He has worked hard to make himself available to his constituents and has been a champion for the residents of Columbia River-Revelstoke.

He lives in Golden with his wife Karen and two daughters.

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Invermere suffers from extra effluent

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff The District of Invermere has a surplus of excrement – 490 tonnes of solid waste, to be exact.

Last August, it undertook a “desludging” process of one of two lagoons at its wastewater treatment facility in Athalmer. Estimated to cost $120,000, filtering out the liquids ended up costing $340,000 due to a higher concentration of solids than expected. That reduced the sewer reserve fund to just $140,000.

Now there are two problems: how to pay for the desludging of the second lagoon; and what to do with the 490 dry tonnes of bio-solids that were retrieved.

Thankfully, as Chief Administrative Officer Chris Prosser said, Invermere’s bio-solids are “quite high quality.”

They are Class B, which means that according to the Ministry of the Environment they can be directly applied to agricultural lands, under certain circumstances. After passing through the wastewater treatment facility, the bio-solids have been stabilized so they have turned into a peat-like substance.

Three farmers have offered to take the bio-solids.

“It makes a good topsoil amendment,” said manager of utilities Brian Nickurak.

The district will now conduct a Land Application Plan for three or four possible sites for the waste. A

The bio-solids are being stored at the Athalmer facility. qualified professional will assess which is the safest, most suitable site. Then the waste will be applied and the land will have restricted access for six months.

But once this load is dropped, the district will need to deal with the problem all over again. Within the next five years, the second lagoon needs to be desludged. This time, the estimated cost will be as high as $800,000.

Mayor Gerry Taft said the sewer operating and reserve funds can’t be relied on to pay for that. “We may have to come up with the $800,000 from borrowing or other reserves,” he said.

The good news is that subsequent desludging is likely to cost less. The lagoons hadn’t been through the

process since 1994; if the municipality now maintains good practice of desludging every five to 10 years, it should cost around $400,000 each time. That works out to be approximately $100,000 a year.

To reach that goal, council are discussing raising 2009 sewer utility rates by 10 percent.

“We have been particularly responsible to taxpayers, so I think it is quite in order to attempt to build up our sewer reserve fund,” said councillor Bob Campsall.

Single-family residences would pay an extra $2.80 a month. Owners of one-bedroom suites would pay an extra $1.50 a month, and commercial site owners would pay an extra $2.60 a month.

Council will vote on the raise at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 10th.

In the long term, Brian Nickurak said the municipality is looking into creating a composting facility.

A high-end facility could include composting of organic waste, too, such as household food and garden scraps. The compost would then be sold to the public.

But first, the financial viability needs to be tested.

“We need to undergo a cost benefit analysis,” Mr. Nickurak said. He added that the facility is at least five years off.

In the meantime, 490 dry tonnes of bio-solids will go free to a good home. If you are interested, call the district at 250-342-9281.

> >>>

Encore

Page 11

What’s Happening in the Columbia Valley

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 12

SUCCESS STORY

PAGE 19

CARNIVALE!

Grade 5 student Alysha Bernicot was all concentration as she tossed a bean bag at the Parent Advisory Committee Winter Carnival, held last Friday at J. Alfred Laird Elementary School.

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

Canadian Tenors • Christ Church Trinity The Canadian Tenors return to Invermere Saturday, March 7, Tickets on Sale at Pynelogs, Essentials, One Hour Photo, Smoking Waters & N’Deco. Call (250) 342-4423 for tickets and more info.

What does ART mean to you?

CV Arts AGM • Pynelogs Cultural Centre CV Arts Annual General Meeting at Pynelogs Cultural Centre Thursday March 19, 7 pm. Everyone Welcome!

Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423.

Out & About Your Weekly Guide to What’s Happening Around the Columbia Valley Page 13

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS

Australia, reviewed by an Australian Reviewed by Sally Waddington Yes, I am Australian. I’m not sure whether that makes me more or less qualified to review Baz Luhrmann’s latest contribution – I am rather biased, after all. But here goes.

Given that the director has previously given us such treasures as Moulin Rouge! and Romeo+Juliet, I was expecting grand melodrama, flashy sets and showstopping tunes. But Australia is something else entirely.

Set in Australia’s Northern Territory during World War Two, the plot centres around English Lady Sarah Ashley (Nicole Kidman), who leaves her stiff-upperlip aristocratic lifestyle to chase down her pioneering husband. He is off mustering on his cattle station, Faraway Downs, several days’ ride from the Territory’s capital, Darwin.

But when Lady Ashley arrives in Darwin, she is met by a burly, rough, publicly-scorned outdoorsman called The Drover (Hugh Jackman). And when The

Drover eventually deposits her at Faraway Downs, she learns her husband has been murdered.

The plot gathers momentum from there as Lady Ashley enlists The Drover to help her save the cattle station. Along the way they are smitten by a mixed blood Aboriginal boy, Nullah, and spend half the movie saving the tough little kid from lurking danger.

There are glowing heroes and dastardly villains a plenty. The harsh truth for an Aussie is that some of those villains are state-sanctioned, as the film touches on one of white Australia’s biggest mistakes: the Stolen Generations. From 1869 to 1969, Aboriginal children – mixed blood or no – were permanently removed from their families and placed in missions. Run by the church, these missions endeavoured to assimilate the children into white society. It’s an atrocity that most Australians are now deeply ashamed of, and Prime Minister Kevin Rudd finally offered members of the Stolen Generations an apology in 2008, on his second day as prime minister in parliament.

Issues of national horror aside, Australia the film

SATURDAY, MARCH 7TH

is punctuated by sweeping panoramas of outback homesteads, mountains of rock, and red sand cliffs.

Jackman and Kidman are, of course, at the centre of a Shakespearean romance that either makes or ruins the film, depending on your point of view. The rest of the cast – every last one of them Australian – includes Bryan Brown and 300’s David Wenham.

But the star of the film is well and truly 11-yearold Brandon Walters, who plays Nullah. Walters grew up in remote Broome, Western Australia, and had never heard of Kidman or Jackman before being cast.

In fact, he had only seen a handful of films in his lifetime. But as Nullah, he captures the tough heart of the country, its perseverance through adversity, and its loyalty and spirit.

At two and a half hours long, Australia is an investment, but it’s certainly one that pays off.

RATING: 9 OUT OF 10 HEADS

At the Library The K Handshape

by Maureen Jennings

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Reviewed by Sheila Bonny Maureen Jennings’ The K Handshape is a unique murder mystery that explores the politics of deaf culture and the complexity of interpersonal communication.

Christine Morris, a forensic profiler with the Ontario Provincial Police in Orillia, participates in a murder investigation after a body is found strangled and floating in Lake Couchiching. The victim is Deirdre, a deaf woman, the daughter of Morris’s colleague, Leo Forgach, and a militant proponent of deaf culture.

The woman had recently been the recipient of hate mail and death threats because she publicly declared that she had mated so as to ensure that

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her child would also be deaf.

As Morris interviews Deirdre’s friends from Gallaudet University and her colleagues at the Ontario Hard of Hearing Association, the use of body language, lip reading, American sign language, interpreters, and a TTY machine (a combination keyboard and telephone) complicates communication and increases the potential for misunderstandings.

Furthermore, Forgach insists on participating in the case, although his emotional volatility risks compromising the investigation.

Jennings lightens the thriller with a hint of everyday: phone calls from Morris’s long-distance sweetheart, and police coffee and donut breaks at Tim Horton’s. Fans of crime fiction will find The K Handshape an interesting opportunity to delve into a culture foreign to many.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

March 6, 2009

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS District of East Kootenay is seeking one person from Area F and one person from Area G to represent their areas on the library board. Please submit letters and resumes to Shannon Moskal at the regional district office in Cranbrook. For info: 1-888-478-7335.

• 7:30 p.m.: Power of Green in Tibet by Gail Berg.

An educational presentation in the Exploring Our World: WILD Voices Series at David Thompson Secondary School. Admission $7 each. For info: 250-347-9331.

Out & About Please call 250-341-6299 or Email us at upioneer@telus.net to enter your event in our FREE listings.

Toby Theatre

Thursday, March 12th:

• 7:30 p.m.: March 4th-7th: Hotel for Dogs • 7:30 p.m.: March 11th-14th: Inkheart

Friday, March 6th: • World Day of Prayer 2009. Services at 1:30 p.m. at All Saints Church in Edgewater, and 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church Trinity in Invermere. For info: 250342-6751.

• DJ Huggs at Bud’s Bar and Lounge.

• Salute to Ladies at Copper City Saloon with singer Ndidi Onukwulu.

Saturday, March 7th: • 10 a.m.: The Whitehouse Pub Fishing Derby. Meet at the pub in Windermere for registration, or preregister by calling the Whitehouse at 250-342-3540.

• 7 p.m: Canadian Tenors at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere. Part of Columbia Valley Arts’ Performing Arts Winter Series. For info: 250-342-4423.

• UFC Ring Girl Tryouts at Bud’s Bar and Lounge.

Monday, March 9th: • 5 p.m.: Give the District of Invermere your input at the West Boundary Expansion (Grizzly Ridge Properties) open house and presentation at the Invermere Community Hall. For info call Rory: 250342-9281 ext. 235.

Tuesday, March 10th: • 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Search and Rescue Annual General Meeting at Eagle Ranch Golf Resort. For info: 250-341-1552.

Wednesday, March 11th: • 4:30 p.m.: Deadline for receiving applications to sit on the Invermere Public Library Board. The Regional

• Access in the Community for Equality presents Universal Design: An Economic Imperative for Building, Tourism and Community Design, a oneday course offered at the College of the Rockies. For info: 250-342-3210.

Friday, March 13th: • Deadline for Columbia Valley Youth Soccer registration. Volunteer coaches and refs needed, training provided. Practices Tuesdays, games Thursdays. For info, visit: www.cvrec.ca.

• Seat sale ends today for Delta Air flights direct from Cranbrook to Salt Lake City connections. Book through your travel agent or visit www.delta.com.

• Friday to Sunday: Showoff freestyle weekend at Panorama Mountain Resort. Starts 7 p.m. Friday with Syndicate Rail Jam in front of the Great Hall Deck; continues 1 p.m. Saturday at Little Showoff Slopestyle in the Small-Medium Terrain Park; 5 p.m. Saturday with Showoff Big Air in the Showoff Terrain Park; and ends 1 p.m. Sunday with Showoff Slopestyle in the Showoff Terrain Park. For registration and more info, visit: www. panoramaresort.com.

Saturday, March 14th: • 2-4 p.m.: MLA Norm Macdonald kicks off his campaign for the May election with an open house at the Akisqnuk Band Hall, Windermere. Guest speakers band councillor Jesse Nicholas and Invermere councillor Spring Hawes. Everyone welcome.

• 10 a.m. Windermere Community Association’s annual general meeting at Windermere Community Hall. Election of officers, annual report.

• 10 a.m. to noon: Lake Windermere clean-up at Kinsmen Beach. Everyone welcome to come and pick up litter off the ice. Sponsored by Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, Lake Windermere Project and Columbia

River Greenways Alliance.

• Cover band 47 Parker at Bud’s Bar and Lounge.

Sunday, March 15th: • 1-4 p.m.: 3rd Annual Blushing Bride Wedding Expo at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Tickets $5.

Visit www.theblushingbride.ca.

Monday, March 16th-March 18th: • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Three-day Spring Break Sport and Recreation Camps for kids, Kindergarten to Grade 5.

Held at J. A. Laird Elementary School. Cost $99 plus GST. For info: 250-342-8737.

Thursday, March 19th: • 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Arts annual general meeting, Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Election of officers, review of financial position, reception to follow. Everyone welcome. For info: 250-342-4423.

Friday, March 20th: • Deadline for applications from non-profit groups wanting to run the silent auction at the annual Kinsmen Home and Recreation Show at Eddie Mountain Arena on May 8th and 9th. Mail proposals to Kinsmen Club, Box 2039, Invermere, V0A 1K0.

Monday, March 23rd: • Starting today, three-day Spring Break Sport and Recreation Camps for kids, Kindergarten to Grade 5.

Held at J. A. Laird Elementary School. Cost $99 plus GST. For info: 250-342-8737.

• Starting today, four-day Spring Break Camp for kids aged five to 12, $120 or family rate. For info, email charsweb@telus.net.

Saturday, March 28th: • Last day to view the amazing multi-media group exhibit called Columbia Wetlands Natural Inspiration, at the Art Gallery of Golden, 516-9th Avenue North, Golden.

Monday, April 13th: • Free mammograms at the B.C. Cancer Agency’s Screening Mammography mobile service, Windermere. No doctor’s referral is needed. Call 1800-663-9203 to book appointment.

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• Dining (250) 342-6560 • Golf (250) 342-0562 • www.eagleranchresort.com • Toll Free (877) 877-3889

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

HOME RENOVATION TAX CREDIT Canada Revenue Agency www.cra.gc.ca g

THE TIME HAS NEVER BEEN BETTER

YOU COULD RECEIVE UP TO $2,35000 IN CREDITS On eligible projects costing between $1,00000 – $10,00000 (before taxes) eligible Homeowners can receive a 15% Income Tax credit for the 2009 tax year, up to a maximum of $1,35000 on material and/ or labour, from the Canada Revenue Agency. This credit will be in the form of a Year End Income Tax Refund. In addition, Invermere Hardware & Building Supplies will issue an additional In-store Credit (In the form of an In-store Gift Card) of 10% of the project price, up to a maximum of $1,00000.

THAT IS ALMOST 25% OF THE PROJECT COST BACK TO YOU In addition, you can take advantage of our competitive pricing, expert advice, professional installation services, and add to your AEROPLAN Miles. AS an added bonus, finance your project using Home Hardware’s exclusive Home Improvement Financial Service. (Provided by RBC) Cannot be combined with any other discounts or specials. Some conditions apply. See in-store for details.

CALL NOW AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR PROJECT SALES CONSULTANTS Projects – Jackson: 250-342-2434, Wes: 250-342-2433 Cabinets – Lisa: 250-342-2432

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Leadership students prepare to meet David Suzuki’s daughter

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff The hard work and motivation of four local teenage girls has earned them the opportunity of a lifetime.

Stephanie Konig, Caitlin Woods, Kayja Becker and Tonie Minhas, all students at David Thompson Secondary School, will be heading to Vancouver on April 27th to interview Severn Cullis-Suzuki, a young environmentalist and the daughter of David Suzuki.

“It’s really exciting to be able to have our voice heard here and all over the world,” said Grade 12 student Stephanie Konig.

The interview is one of six live, student-led webcasts, held as part of the Sharing the Dream program, which is designed to use technology to bring the excitement of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games to classrooms throughout the world.

The goal of the program is to promote issues such as culture, sustainability, sports and healthy living, olympism and paralympism, as well as the overriding theme of global citizenship. All are components of the Vancouver 2010 Education program.

It is funded by the British Columbia Ministry of Education, the British Columbia Education Leadership Council, the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympics and TakingITGlobal, a youth social action website.

The students are participating in the series as a project for their high school leadership class, but their teacher, Alyssan Gauthier, said the girls have gone far above the course requirements.

“I am really excited,” she said. “As a teacher, you hope to work with motivated students – these girls are a teacher’s dream!”

It was Mrs. Gauthier who brought the program to the attention of her class.

She never imagined that anyone

would choose to take on such a demanding task.

“It just seemed like such a great change to get involved with things,” said Kayja Becker, who is in Grade 11.

The four students are one of six groups from around British Columbia participating in the program.

Each live webcast is hosted by a different school.

On February 20th, the girls took part in their first live webcast, where students from Heritage Woods Secondary school in Port Moody, B.C., interviewed Michael Furdyk, the co-founder of TakingITGlobal.

The theme of the webcast was global citizenship.

“That was really inspiring,” Grade 11 student Tonie Minhas said. “He taught us to go from empathy to action.”

So far, the girls say the project has been a great experience.

“It shows that there are a lot more things you can do as a small community that will help the bigger picture,” said Grade 11 student Caitlin Woods.

Kayja added, “It also shows that we really can do all of these things and we have networks to help us.”

The foursome has just recently begun preparing for their Vancouver interview.

“We really want to add some excitement to it,” Stephanie said.

“We are thinking of making it more of a discussion instead of a straight question-and-answer interview,” Tonie added.

Along with their interview, the four students will also get to spend the day with Severn.

The girls will broadcast their interview with Severn Cullis-Suzuki on April 30th.

For more information on the Sharing the Dream program and to see their interview, go to www.sharingthedream. gov.bc.ca.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

March 6, 2009

WINDERMERE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Saturday, March 14th at 10:00 a.m.

Windermere Community Hall Coffee, tea, and snacks provided.

To be discussed: Annual Reports, Budget, Election of Officers, Water Issues, and Olympic Torch Relay.

Open daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

To book an appointment please call Lyn’s cell at 250-341-5668 TOMORROW’S LEADERS – Clockwise from top: teacher Alyssan Gauthier, Caitlin Woods, Tonie Minhas, Kayja Becker and Stephanie Konig, who will travel to Vancouver to meet Severn Cullis-Suzuki. Photo by Cayla Gabruck

E x p l o r i n g o u r Wo r l d WILD Voices Speakers Series 2009

The Power of Green in Tibet

by Gail Berg

Mark McKee – 16 years in Civic Government, 6 years as Mayor of Revelstoke Family man, Successful Business Owner and your voice for a strong future in B.C.

A Stronger Economy Authorized by Maria Stagliano, Financial Agent for the Mark McKee Campaign, Tel: 250-814-9431.

A Cleaner Environment

Better Health Care

To learn more, visit www.markmckee.ca

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Greenhouse boosted by dinner, donations Submitted by Lin Steedman Community Greenhouse Education Coordinator

THANK YOU, COLUMBIA BASIN TRUST – The Community Greenhouse, a project of the Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Centre for Sustainable Living, was the recipient of $115,000 from Columbia Basin Trust.

From left, Joanne Bragg, David Zehnder, Alison Bell, Dale Wilker, Columbia Basin Trust’s Katherine Hamilton, Lin Steedman and Bill Swan pose with the welcome cheque towards this worthwhile community project.

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The Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Center for Sustainable Living, David Thompson Secondary School, Eagle Ranch Golf Resort and the Windermere Valley Farmers’ Institute hosted author and organic farmer Michael Ableman of California last weekend for a luncheon, dinner and inspiring talks around food production, food security and the movement towards a more sustainable food system.

His message was very clear: “Make friends with a farmer; you’re going to need them.”

As the crowd finished their meal at Eagle Ranch last Saturday with apple pie (with local organic apples from Winderberry Nursery), he said, “The leadership that is going to make this happen is not going to come from someone somewhere else; it will have to come from folks like you sitting here in this room.”

Mr. Ableman’s number one proposal was to create an agriculture center, where a real working farm becomes the model and platform for education around social, cultural, ecological and economic change.

“Your Community Greenhouse is an excellent first step towards this,” he said. “Your Community Greenhouse will become a place that attracts others to come here and learn in it and learn from it; they will take what they learn back to their own communities.

Congratulations!”

The greenhouse is the group’s initial foray into the development of a community model supportive of a sustainable food system. “As an organization with long-term vision,” said Project Leader Bill Swan. “We wish to secure land to develop a working farm and centre for sustainable living – a model similar to the one Michael Ableman has proposed.”

Over the next three years the group will deliver programs to build understanding and capacity to reenergize our local-to-regional food systems and community sustainability.

Through the Community Greenhouse Sustaining Funders Program, it is seeking to work with organizations and individuals who share their vision. Recently, both the Panorama Foundation and Columbia Basin Trust have joined the greenhouse group and the high school as Sustaining Funders. “In gratefully accepting this support, we once again thank our community for their outstanding contributions of time, materials and finances to date,” said Bill Swan.

For more information, contact Lin Steedman at 250-342-0539 or email linsteedman@gmail.com.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

March 6, 2009

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Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, March 10th – 7:00 p.m.

The Eagle Ranch Golf Resort

Pasta Dinner Buffet will be served while reviewing: • Election of Directors • Annual Reports

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JUMBO WILD BUMPER STICKERS It’s time to show you care

342-3147 • www.jumbowild.com

Liberal campaign kicks off Tourism Minister Bill Bennett and his wife Beth, above left, showed up at Eagle Ranch last Sunday for the kickoff to Mark McKee’s campaign for the Columbia River-Revelstoke riding. Mark McKee is pictured above right, with his wife Patricia. Mr. McKee will run against sitting MLA Norm Macdonald in the May election.

Below left, Lucy and Al Miller of Invermere, owners of Home Hardware, flank local auctioneer Tex Lortscher at the event.

• Bedding Sand • Drain Rock • 3/4 Crush Gravel • Landscaping Rock

Phone: (250) 342-0707 Invermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

klein@nucleus.com • www.tepapanui.com

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

VALLEY ARTS

March 6, 2009

Invermere author pens book at 14

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff At the age of 14, Kate Gibbs of Invermere has already realized one of her dreams.

The young lady recently wrote and published her first children’s book, A Hare Raising Adventure, with the help of Grace Brulotte, a Grade 7 student from Fernie, and the B.C. Special Education Technology program.

“I have always wanted to be an author of funny books,” Kate said, “because I like to make people laugh.”

Kate, the daughter of Nick and Judy Gibbs, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when she was just one year old.

But since she was young, Kate has loved to read and write. She also likes to share her love for reading.

Every Tuesday, after school, Kate reads to a community member named Betty, who is legally blind.

Kate joined the B.C. Special Education Technology program in third grade. She met Grace, who has limited mobility due to arthropyosis, two years ago at the program office.

“We have been friends ever since,” Kate said.

The two worked together to produce the book, Kate doing a majority of the writing and Grace, the illustrations.

Kate began writing the book last April and, after a month of missed lunch hours, she was finished.

“That was the worst part, not being able to go out and get fresh air and having to eat my lunch really

fast,” she said.

The girls officially launched the book on February 16th in Kimberley in front of family, B.C. Special Education Technology staff and 21 students from Lindsay Park Elementary School in Kimberley.

A Hair Raising Adventure is the story of two bunnies, who are stranded on the island of Maui, Hawaii.

The story line, she said, was inspired by one of Kate’s recent family vacations, when a flight plan change left the family stuck on Maui for five days.

Also, a few of the main characters in the book, Kate explained, were inspired by real people in the girls’ lives, including Kate and Grace, the bunnies, Nick the chef and Buddy the gecko.

“Grace made me the white bunny because she said I am the angel,” Kate explained. “She is the black bunny because she is the troublemaker.”

Although they collaborated on the book, Kate admits the duo had some creative differences along the way.

“Grace wanted to write about bunnies in Alaska,” she said. “And I said ‘Grace, we don’t know anything about Alaska!’”

An illustration at the end of the book hints that Alaska might be the setting of the next adventure for the four-legged friends. Kate said she and Grace hope to write more books together.

For now, her next project with the B.C. Special Education Technology program is to make a five-minute video. Her wheelchair was recently outfitted with a video camera and, Kate said, her own life might be the topic of the video.

Kate Gibbs, along with friend Grace Brulotte of Fernie, has written a book called A Hare Raising Adventure.

Guys Read: reading program for boys only Submitted by Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy “I can’t believe this is just for boys.”

“Where did you find these books?”

“Thank you for giving us great books.”

These are just some of the comments from the more than two dozen boys who are already participating in “Guys Read,” a reading program exclusively for boys in Grades 4 to 7 in the schools across the valley.

With the support of local libraries, town and village councils, Guys Read has been made possible through the partnership between School District No. 6, and Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy in a proposal for the School Community Connections

Grant. The program is being organized and operated by Invermere Public Library volunteer and local tutor Amy Hartung.

Studies show boys prefer topics and genres such as humour, adventure, science fiction, crime and detective, sports, and graphic novels. These kinds of books attract boys to the fun of reading. Challenging material can often be overcome with books that are of high interest.

Guys Read gives boys the possibility to choose from tubs full of books, selected especially with guys in mind, to take home each month.

The monthly gatherings provide opportunities for them to be actively engaged in literacy activities with other boys, while being given the chance to create a greater interest in reading. Guys can investi-

gate the “Dangerous Book for Boys,” dig up some of “The Biggest, Best, Silliest, Dumbest Jokes Ever” or hone their knowledge in “101 Greatest Hockey Arguments.”

The anticipation for the boys each month is a chance to discuss the books they are reading with other guys in their group, across the valley, and with local male mentors, through a blog and round-table book chats.

The program has plans to continue running beyond the remainder of the school year to be able to influence as many boys as possible before they enter high school.

If your boy is in Grades 4 to 7, and might be interested in this program, please contact your child’s principal.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

March 6, 2009

Performing arts centre location debated

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff A survey of Columbia Valley residents has revealed strong support for a performing arts centre, but has left arts supporters scratching their heads over the location.

The recent Columbia Valley Arts cultural scan asked participants if they would like to see a performing arts facility somewhere in the valley. On a scale of one to five, with five being the strongest support, the average response was 4.26.

However, the question of whether participants want the facility built at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort elicited an average response of only 2.4.

“There was no clear answer from the survey,” said project consultant Gerri Brightwell.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offered Columbia Valley Arts a site for the long-proposed performance centre in August 2008 after plans for a facility in Invermere fell through.

Based on the results of their own survey, Invermere council squeezed the proposed performance centre out of its plans for a new community hall.

Rory Hromadnik, Invermere’s town planner, said, “There is significant space in the conceptual designs for a performance area. This area would be consistent with the common theme of a multi-use facility.”

However, when Fairmont Hot Springs Resort came forward with its offer of a site, Columbia Valley Arts set out to collect its own data.

The cultural scan measured not just the support for an arts centre, but also residents’ overall satisfaction with the arts scene in the area.

The results were presented at a community forum on Tuesday, February 24th. After measuring responses from about 700 participants, the cultural scan found that 60.2 percent of participants are satisfied or very satisfied with arts and culture in the Columbia Valley.

Participants saw growth opportunities to: include more age groups; come up with new programming; include regional communities; and address barriers of communication and transportation.

However, discussion at the forum centred around the proposed performing arts facility.

Chris Evans, president of Columbia Valley Arts, told an audience of about 40 the next step will be to form a task force.

“The performing arts centre has to be a community initiative,” Chris said. “The only way it can happen is with a task force that will involve the community at large.”

Some forum attendees suggested the proposed facility should be sited in Invermere.

“Take the hub very strongly into account,” said Gerry Wilkie, regional district director for Area G. “If you are going to focus on development at Fairmont, you have to have a hard look at the environmental and social economics.”

David Shirk said, “As juicy as the Fairmont proposal is, I think the facility needs to be accessible for students. It is not just about making money but mak-

ing it functional for the community.”

However, the location of the facility is not yet determined. Nick Berzins, a member of the cultural scan’s steering committee, suggested the task force look closely at location.

“The members of the task force can’t go in with a set objective of where it will be built,” Nick said. “The first task is brainstorming. Then they should look at the social and environmental economics and come up with the criteria to evaluate.”

But is Fairmont’s offer too good to pass up? Cam Berry, past-president of Columbia Valley Arts, thinks the Fairmont location has more benefits than disadvantages.

“I am so delighted Fairmont came along,” he said.

“There is an awful lot going for this site. Elsewhere it would be a stand-alone building and it will cost more to maintain.”

Richard Haworth, vice-president of development at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, said costs like security, garden maintenance and food service could be shared with the resort.

“Fairmont Hot Springs Resort believes that there are numerous operational efficiencies that could be realized if the performing arts centre is located in the resort,” he said.

Richard also said the resort currently operates a shuttle in the valley for its staff and guests.

“We are looking to expand this shuttle service over time as the resort grows and demand is demonstrated for this type of service,” he said.

Village Arts a success story for local artists

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff Village Arts is one of the Columbia Valley’s hidden treasures – a gallery, art shop and more.

“It gives people a place to go and just breathe,” said Rachel King, store manager. “There’s quiet music, you can just walk around and browse the artwork . . . it’s almost like a little oasis from our hectic lives.”

Village Arts has been in business for more than 20 years. It was started in 1983 by a group of local artisans, including Ann and Guenther Plassman, Rena Finch, Brian Hoffos, Mary Pick, Betty Pederson, Judy Haldrup, Yvonne Christensen and Alice Hale.

“We all showed our work at craft shows, but it was a lot of work setting up and taking down,” said Ann Plassman. “Mary Pick and Rena Finch thought we should experiment and try a little shop.”

And so they did. The father of one of the members operated a business in the space where Kootenay Savings Credit Union is now located. He moved his desk to the back and let the artists take up residence

Bonnie Anderson’s ‘Sculpture of a Nude Flower Girl’ is one unusual piece of raku pottery. in the rest of the store. In May 1983, Village Arts was born.

The artists stayed in that location for the summer but, come winter, they moved into their own shop, next to the Toby Theatre. Each year, the number of artists showcasing their work grew.

To meet increasing demand, Village Arts moved to their current location on the corner of 7th Avenue and 10th Street in 2004.

Today, the store serves as a market for more than 50 artists from around Western Canada, their work ranging from wood to jewelry. Many of the artists showcasing their work at Village Arts are local, including potter Lorna Hogg of Invermere.

“Lorna’s work is well-received by the customers. People just love her colours and shapes,” Rachel said. “It’s a very new and upcoming style.”

Alice Hale of Invermere, one of the founding members of Village Arts, also sells her pottery in the store.

The store is a co-operative business, meaning each artist pays a small portion of the profit to keep the business in operation. Many of them also volunteer their time to work at the store.

“We have a really congenial group of people willing to do their share of work, and that’s what keeps it going,” Rachel said.

For more information on Village Arts, stop into the store at 1045A-7th Avenue Invermere, or visit www.villagearts.ca.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

YOUR MONEY

Even Warren Buffett had a losing year Annual letter to shareholders

Every year Warren Buffett sends a letter to the shareholders of Berkshire Hathaway that accompanies the annual report. With each letter he attempts to explain to shareholders what is going on in the financial world and how his company has performed. The annual letter is a must-read for anyone following the markets, as it is always an honest and humble attempt by the world’s greatest investor to explain the world from an investing point of view.

depression and he would read signs in restaurants that proclaimed, “In God we trust; all others pay cash.”

Vicious negative feedback loop

Buffett describes the economy as paralyzed by fear in late 2008. Huge drops in stock prices and home prices led to a state of fear that contracted business activities at an accelerated level he has never seen before.

This contraction in business activities led to more fear, which created a negative feedback cycle.

Rare loss

Governments did the right thing

This year Berkshire Hathaway lost investors 9.6 percent on a net worth basis. This was only Warren Buffett’s second loss ever in 44 years and his worst year since the inception of Berkshire Hathaway. This was also the worst year during the past 44 years for the S&P 500, which was down 37 percent; 2008 was the year in which “investors of all stripes were bloodied and confused, much as if they were small birds that had strayed into a badminton game.”

The economic spiral has spurred governments around the world to take massive action. Buffett describes the federal and the US Treasury in poker terms as being “all-in” and economic medicine that used to be meted out by the cup-full is now being dispensed by the barrel-full. He also states that immediate action by the governments last year were necessary to avoid a total collapse and that they did the right thing.

In God we trust: all others pay cash

Government action was necessary, but it will almost certainly bring unwelcome after-effects. Their precise nature is anyone’s guess, but Buffett figures it will lead to an onslaught of inflation. He explains another downside: major industries and cities and states being bailed out will make them dependent on the federal government, and “weaning these entities from

Last year was also a terrible year for real estate, commodities, and corporate or municipal bondholders. A series of financial life-threatening problems with the banks led the credit markets to stray from dysfunctional to non-functional. These frozen credit markets reminded Buffett of when he was a kid in the great

Inflationary downside

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

March 6, 2009

Financial planner moves into new downtown office

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff

me the knowledge and background to do retirement and estate planning,” Jason explained.

Junior Associate Michael McDonald studied Economics and Philosophy at the University of Calgary, completing his education in 2005. Michael moved to the valley from Calgary in January 2008 with his fiancée Stephanie Clovechok.

“Michael is a good fit. He is young, energetic and enjoys working with people,” Jason said.

Michael feels his life experience equips him further for his position.

“I was raised by an entrepreneur and I saw some of

You can go your own way.

That’s the message financial planner Jason Elford wants to share with the residents of the Columbia Valley. Now with his own independent business, Jason helps his clients craft their own individual financial plan.

“We don’t give cookie-cutter advice,” he said. “Everyone’s situation is different and we take it that way.”

In January, Jason opened his office on 13th Street, Invermere, under the name CMK Wealth Management.

Working for him in the former Rocky Mountain Realty location in the old Home Hardware building in downtown Invermere is Junior Associate Michael McDonald, and Jason’s long-time office manager Denise Reid.

After two years working at Manulife Securities, formerly known as Berkshire Investment Group, Jason says having his own business means benefits for his clients.

“We are completely independent,” he said. “We are not overseen by any particular company, nor are we encouraged in any way to use one specific product.

Business owner and financial planner Jason Elford, centre, with Office Manager DeWe can provide whatever nise Reid and Junior Associate Michael McDonald.

Photo by Sally Waddington product and service is best for the client.”

CMK Wealth Management offers complete finan- the pitfalls awaiting people who don’t properly plan,” cial planning for everyone from young families just Michael said. getting started, to retirees seeking estate planning.

One of those pitfalls is inadequate life or disability And Jason has a soft spot for local business owners. insurance. “The products are not well known, and a “Being in business, I understand the valley and I lot of people are not aware of what they don’t have like to deal with small business owners,” Jason said. and the risks they are putting their families in,” Jason Jason and his wife Danielle moved to the Colum- said. For that reason, Jason’s goal is to give his clients a bia Valley from Calgary in April 2006. The idea came hands-on approach to their financial plans. to them suddenly the previous summer when they “I have always been a big believer in educating my were here on vacation and stopped into Valley Alley in clients to better understand how the financial industry Windermere for ice cream. Less than a week later, the works, what needs the individual client has and what Elfords had purchased the bowling centre and accom- steps they should take to meet their financial goals,” panying gas station. The move here was the natural Jason said. next step for Jason, Danielle and their three children.

CMK Wealth Management can help clients with Jason began his career in Calgary as an investment any financial query. “It is not a stretch to say that with advisor in 1998 and soon achieved his designation as a our expertise, CMK Wealth Management provides Certified Financial Planner. our valley with professional and knowledgeable advice “The C.F.P. is a high-level designation that gives for any financial need,” Michael summed up.

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

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

A BIG THANK YOU! From the Edgewater/Radium Hospital Auxiliary Health Care to…

• Fields Sobeys AG Valley Foods • Eclipse Hair Salon Sears • Mickey Hess Dollar Store • Full View Curtains

• • • •

And to the Ladies who baked for our Bake Table. Also to the ladies who volunteered to help serve and clean up and support our Valentine Tea on Saturday, February 14th, 2009.

KITCHEN AND BATHROOM CABINETS FURNITURE QUALITY BY FURNITURE BUILDERS Contact Dale Elliott • 250-341-7098 www.kekulibaycabinetry.com a local harvest evening with

michaelableman at eagle ranch sat 21 february 09

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BG & CSL

Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Centre for Sustainable Living

• • • • •

Community Food Action Initiative, Interior Health Drew Bragg Don Wah, Downey Farms, Win Valley Gardens, Barb Cote DTSS Chef Training Program Kootenay Alpine Cheese Company

a hearty thank you • • • • •

Peter Bourke & Eagle Ranch Staff Spring Health Foods Tin Horn Creek Winery Windermere District Farmer’s Institute Windermere Creek Bed & Breakfast

TO THE COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE THAT CONTRIBUTED TO AND PARTOOK IN THE INCREDIBLE EVENING OF FOOD AND DISCOURSE want to get involved? Contact lin steedman linsteedman@gmail.com (250) 342-0539

Most people review their Investment portfolio regularly!

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For a complimentary review and to see if we can lower your costs or improve the quality of your existing coverage call me at 250-342-5052 or just stop in to see us in our beautiful new location.

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Certified Financial Planner, Insurance Advisor 526B – 13th Street, Invermere, BC.

Phone: 250-342-5052

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Sheila Cope retiring after 24 years

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff

After 24 years of serving Invermere, Service B.C.’s Sheila Cope has retired.

The 56-year-old grandmother of six finished work last week and retreated to a life of leisure – working full-time at the business she co-owns with her husband Tom, called Town and Country Property Management Services.

The plus side, Sheila said, will be the shift in work attire. “The office is in our home, so I can work in my pyjamas and no one will know or care!”

Sheila first worked for the local government agent in 1985 when the service was under the Ministry of Forests.

When forest fires raced through the Columbia Valley, she was hired to “write cheques” for fire aid. When that job ended, former government agent Brian McKenzie offered Sheila a temporary position – and it stuck. A year later she was made permanent.

In 24 years, Sheila has seen a lot of changes. First the government agent’s office moved from 14th Street to 7th Avenue, next to the courthouse, in

Sheila Cope 1993. Then in 2004 Service B.C. was established in its current location on 4th Street.

Over the years, there have been changes to the government agents.

Sheila has worked under an Invermere agent, a Cranbrook agent, and now she works under government agent Dodie Hodgins based in Golden.

In 2000, Sheila became Senior Customer Service Representative, and now

she and fellow representative Diana McDonald provide services on behalf of the Ministries of Labour and Citizen Services, Forests, Environment, Public Safety and Solicitor General, and the Integrated Land Management Bureau.

After Sheila’s retirement, Diana will step into the position.

“People will still know a face, and I know she’ll do a really good job,” Sheila said.

After growing up in Saskatchewan, Sheila met her future husband Tom in Revelstoke while she was passing through on a road trip with a friend.

They moved to the valley in 1970, and married a year later.

They have three children: Lesley, 38, Debra, 35, and Jennifer, 31; and six grandchildren ranging in age from five to 16. Jennifer also lives in the valley, and Lesley has just moved back here with his family from Japan.

Sheila isn’t worried about working with her husband full-time: they have run two other businesses in the valley in their married life. From 1980 to 1992, they operated Cope Christmas Trees, and from 1993 to 1996 they

owned and ran Quick Flicks video store in Windermere. The secret to working together, Sheila said, is knowing your boundaries.

Deciding to retire was not an easy decision. “I could have left last year. It took me a year to decide,” she said. “It has been hard because I really like my job.”

Sheila also enjoys the social interaction. “I know so many people and it’s tough to think I’m not going to see them any more,” she said. “The hardest part is the elderly people – I won’t see them anywhere else. There are several in the valley who have become real favourites.”

One of those favourites is 85-yearold Sara Hallett. She has been visiting Sheila once a month for the last 24 years.

“She’s a sweetheart. We love her dearly,” Sara said. “Every time I go in we have a big laugh.”

Sheila’s boss Dodie Hodgins also had fond words for Sheila.

“Sheila is an integral part of the organization, for sure,” Dodie said. “She will be very sorely missed.”

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

WINTER LAKE CLEAN-UP On March 14th, 2009 there is a lake clean-up scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. down at Kinsmen Beach. Please come down and help in the effort!

Our Lake is our greatest environmental and recreation resource and everyone enjoys using the lake no matter what the season!

Whether you are ice fishing, driving across the lake, skating, playing hockey or using the Whiteway’s pathway, please remember to pick up any litter or animal waste lying around. Remember to take everything off of the ice which you brought onto it. Anything left behind is deposited directly into our lake once the ice melts and affects our shoreline and the lakes water quality.

The health of our lake is important and everyone’s cooperation is appreciated to keep our lake healthy and vibrant for many years to come!

INVERMERE ENVIRONMENT CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE If you receive curb-side garbage pick up, and did not receive a door hanger recycling bag, please come to the District of Invermere office to pick one up or you can find the calendar online at our website www.invermere.net.

www.invermere.net

St. Patrick’s Day Sale GREAT EARLY SEASON SPECIALS IN THE GOLF SHOP COME MEET OUR PRO’S.

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Restaurant opening Tuesday, March 17th Great Opening Day Specials.

(250) 342-3004

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

March 6, 2009

CONGRATULATIONS, CHARLIE – Former David Thompson Secondary School student Charlie Smith was presented with $2,000 recently by Lake Windermere District Lions Club members Don Critchley, left, and Larry Root. Charlie, one of two 2008 recipients of the scholarship, is studying Civil Engineering at Lethbridge College. Funds are raised through the annual Ice-Out competition; tickets are now on sale.

Photo by Sally Waddington

RCMP Report

By Staff-Sergeant Doug Pack Columbia Valley Detachment

Station Pub broken into

On February 26th, RCMP were called to the Station Pub at 1017-6th Avenue in Invermere for a report of a break and enter. On the scene, the complainant was waiting inside. He had already gone through the establishment and determined that no one had come inside and that nothing was missing – the change was still in the till, and all the alcohol was accounted for.

Valley Shine laptop stolen

On February 27th, RCMP were called to the Valley Shine Shop on Industrial Road 2 in Invermere for a report of a break and enter. The door had been broken, allowing the thief entrance to the main shop. Items were strewn about the office area and the complainant’s laptop computer, which was used for business and contained all their account information, had been stolen. Anyone with information is asked to contact RCMP at 250-342-9292 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Detachment Commander’s Note

In an area such as ours, there are more than “just a few” folks who rent or lease their homes. The terms of such rentals are regulated by the B.C. Residential Tenancy Act. It is this legislation that spells out the roles, rights and obligations of both landlord and tenant.

British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Act and Regulation apply to: • residential tenancies; • most residential licences to occupy; • tenancies in hotels not occupied as vacation or travel accommodation.

The Residential Tenancy Act does not apply to: • commercial tenancies; • emergency and transitional housing; • community care, continuing care and assisted living facilities; • public or private hospitals; • accommodation owned or operated by an educational institution and provided to students or employees; • accommodation in which the tenant shares bathroom or kitchen facilities with the accommodation’s owner; • accommodation occupied as vacation or travel accommodation.

Manufactured home park tenancies fall under the Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act, unless the tenant rents the home and site from the same landlord.

Disputes over rental agreements must be handled by the Residential Tenancy Office, and they are not investigated, nor settled by the police. In fact, the police role is limited to keeping the peace and investigating allegations of crime. Tenant evictions are a civil responsibility for which the landlord must hire a bailiff. For more information, see the Residential Tenancy Branch’s website at www.rto.gov.bc.ca.

East Kootenay Wood Stove Exchange

Diamond Heating and Spas Ltd. Invermere Home Hardware Advanced Wood Burning Stoves Ltd. C & M Fireplace The Fireplace Old Tyme Spa & Flame Ltd. Fernie Home Hardware Fernie Home Building Centre

For more detailed information, contact your local municipality, RDEK, or program coordinator at 250.342.8881 or amanda@wildsight.ca REGIONAL DISTRICT OF EAST KOOTENAY 19 – 24th Avenue South Cranbrook, BC V1C 3H8 Phone: (250) 489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 Fax: (250) 489-3498 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca

ELECTORAL AREA F AND G REPRESENTATIVES INVERMERE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD The Regional District of East Kootenay is accepting applications for one person to represent Electoral Area F and one person to represent Electoral Area G on the Invermere Public Library Board. To be considered for the position, the applicant must be a resident or elector of Electoral Area F or Electoral Area G and cannot be an employee of the RDEK or Library Board. The term of these volunteer positions will run until December 31, 2011.

Interested persons must submit letters of application and brief resumes including reasons for interest and related experience to Shannon Moskal, Deputy Manager of Administration, at the RDEK office in Cranbrook.

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2009.

Lee-Ann Crane, CAO

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Valley SPORTS

Gymnastics team gets new coach

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff

teaching a group of children under seven years old in St. Anne, Manitoba.

After a year in the position, Tamara moved to Calgary to pursue an education in massage therapy.

In 1990 she graduated from Mount Royal College with a Diploma in Massage Therapy. She spent the next 10 years travelling throughout British Columbia, Alberta and Manitoba and was employed as a massage therapist and a variety of other positions along the way.

Currently Tamara teaches a recreational gymnastics program to children aged two to 14 at the University

The Columbia Valley Gymnastics Club will be starting its 2009 spring season with a fresh face.

Tamara Martz has accepted the position of head coach and is looking forward to bringing new life to the club.

“I am looking forward to starting fresh with the gymnastics club and taking it in a positive and consistent direction,” she said.

Tamara is a certified level-one coach and has many years of experience Tamara Martz coaching gymnastics.

She was a gymnast in her younger years with the Winnipeg Panthers, a competitive gym- of Calgary. nastics club running out of Manitoba.

“I love the sport – I like to see other people love it Although passionate about her career as a gym- and see the fun in it as well,” she said. nast, Tamara was forced to call it quits at age 14 due Tamara will be moving to Invermere in March to a serious knee problem. from her home in Calgary, but this isn’t the 31-yearSo at 17, she began coaching. Her first job was old’s first visit to the Columbia Valley.

In her early twenties, Tamara spent several years in the valley working as a massage therapist and esthetician. You may recognize her from Trims and Treasures in Fairmont Hot Springs or Sunsations Day Spa in Invermere.

Although she no longer practices massage, Tamara is convinced that her experience will help her with her new job.

“It gives me a great idea of how the body works – how certain exercises affect the body and which moves will make certain muscles sore,” she said.

Tamara is looking forward to calling the peaceful Columbia Valley home. It will be a nice change, she said, from the hustle and bustle of Calgary.

When she is not busy molding young gymnasts, Tamara said she hopes to spend lots of time hiking around the mountains with her two dogs, a Bernese Mountain Dog cross and an Old English Mastiff.

Registration for the Columbia Valley Gymnastics Club will be until the end of March.

To register, call 250-342-3023 or email columbiavalleygymnastics@yahoo.ca. For more information on fees and schedules visit www.vcrec.ca.

Meyers rink places fifth at provincials

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff

FIFTH PLACE — Members of the Meyers rink placed fifth at the senior men’s curling provincials. From left to right: Brian Meyers, Ivar Larson, Neil Larson and Dave White.

Photo submitted

Four local men have, once again, secured their title as the fifth-ranked curling team in the province. Brian Meyers, Ivar Larson and Neil Larson of Canal Flats, and Dave White of Kimberley took fifth place at the Senior Mens Curling Provincials held last week in Surrey.

“When we played well, we won. When we didn’t, we didn’t,” team skip Brian Meyers said.

“We were hoping to do better, but we finished in the exact same place we did last year.”

The team began the tournament last Tuesday, playing two games per day and one on Friday. But perhaps the highlight of the tournament, Brian said, occurred on Thursday evening when they came head-to-head with the home team at the Valley Curling Club in Cloverdale.

“It was a tight game all the way through,” Brian said. But the team prevailed, winning the extra end to take the game. They finished the tournament with three wins and four losses.

“It was a fun experience and we worked hard at it,” Brian said. “But it was a little frustrating because our hopes were higher.”

March 6, 2009

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

Junior hockey team named regional champs

The Windermere Valley Youth Hockey Club took top place in the Bantam Female category at the 2009 East Kootenay Zone Championships.

Back row, from left: coach Kerry Ellingboe, Mary Smith, Sawyer Ellingboe, Emilee Enns, Holly Nikirk, Courtney Hlady, Madison Ukass, Dana Kendall, Raven HartMcAllister, and manager Louise Smith.

Front row: coach Greg DuBois, Ashley Oddy, Lindsay Torma, Katrina DuBois, Haley McDonald, Lily Smith, Kiana Strand, Alexis Westergaard, and coach Grant McDonald.

Front: Jayme Saunders.

Missing: trainer Peter Torma.

Photo submitted

What a save!

The goalies stole the show last Saturday at the Whitehouse Pub’s Three-on-Three Ball Hockey Tournament in Windermere. Randy Martin, far left, and Jason Lawrick protected many an orange ball as it slid towards the goal. In fact, the problem wasn’t keeping the ball out of goal, but keeping it on the field!

Despite the icy wind, dozens of people parked their trucks and cracked a beer to watch the competitors.

On March 7th, the Whitehouse is hosting a fishing derby. Meet at the pub at 10 a.m. to join in.

Photos by Sally Waddington

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

VALLEY SPORTS

Old Zone winds down

By Harold Hazelaar Pioneer Columnist This week our thanks goes out to Larry Pettit (Valley Vision Silkscreens), the Kloos family – Erwin, Marion and Harald (Lake Auto), and Rob Mason (Huckleberry’s Family Resturant). These are our longest running supporters and it would seem strange to see Buddy, Norm or Rob in a different jersey. We think they may even be wearing them 24/7. Now our only goal with this group is to have Cam Dow actually smile next year!

And finally, just in case you care . . . February 25th results: Lake Auto sputtered badly against the Wolves, Petro Can gassed Inside Edge, Da’Mudders beat Valley Vision and Huckleberrys rolled over Hi Heat.

Old Timer Hockey League Team

W L

T Points

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes

4

0

0

8

Huckleberry Hawks

4

0

0

8

Warwick Wolves

4

1

0

8

Inside Edge Black Smoke

2

3

0

4

Lake Auto Mustangs

2

2

0

4

Dale Christian Mudders

1

3

1

3

Kicking Horse Coffee

0

2

2

2

Valley Vision Vultures

1

3

0

2

Hi Heat Hustlers

0

4

1

1

www.leaguelineup.com VALLEY VISION VULTURES – Rear, left to right: Ralph Elliott, Kim Leibel, Jamie Graham, Bud Dearin, Dave Oaks, Daryl Crowley. Front, left to right: Mark Shmigelsky, Gord Green, Larry Letourneau, Scott Postlethwaite, Robert Francoeur.

Missing: Doug Schick, Doug McIntosh, Kirby Brown.

LAKE AUTO MUSTANGS – Rear, left to right: Darrell Smith, Gerry Israelson, Alf Riddell, Cy McConnell, Mike Barlow. Front, left to right: Jim Lebourdais, Glen Sage, Norm Julien, Jim Jones, Cam Dow. Missing: Jack Barrault, Dan Drezet, Gord Osterreid.

HUCKLEBERRY HAWKS – Rear, left to right: Bobby Stewart, Mike DuBois, Brian Schaal, Mike Walsh, Pete Nicholas, Eric Stills. Front, left to right: Jim Tazelaar, Greg Dubois, Kerry Ellingboe, Rob Mason, and the gateboy, Stacy Szabo.

Missing: Larry Ballard, Dean Martin, Tim McAllister.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

March 6, 2009

Manny making his mark

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff Manuel Osborne-Paradis is not your typical professional athlete.

The top-ranked 24-year-old alpine ski racer freely admits he likes to have a good time, and even credits some of his success in the high-stress sports environment to his laid-back, fun-loving attitude.

“I was always the second-best growing up,” he said. “Maybe that’s why I am who I am today. When people beat me, I don’t really get too flustered about it – I’m always putting my best effort forward.”

Manuel, known as Manny, is rounding off another successful World Cup season and setting his sights on qualifying for the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver.

“I’m trying to place in the top 10 in every downhill race and top 20 in every Super G race,” he said.

“It’s stressful. You know you have to do all these things like jump 60-metre gaps and ski 150 kilometres per hour down a hill, and you have to do all of them better than everyone else. It’s a hectic life, but it’s totally worth it.”

Manny was born on February 8, 1984 to Jane Osborne, an interior designer, and Jacques Paradis, a movie set director in Deep Cove, a suburb of North Vancouver. Although he was the son of an EnglishCanadian mother and a French-Canadian father, his name was influenced by the place his parents loved most, Mexico.

“My parents actually had to come home from Mexico to deliver me,” he said. “Then, when

I was born, we went back because my parents had left two parrots in Mexico they wanted to bring back. So the first part of my like was a debacle of travelling around Mexico trying to quarantine these parrots and bring them back to Canada.”

Manny grew up in Deep Cove with his mother and his stepfather Bill Scott, a retired radio technician.

His father still resides in Vancouver.

One might say skiing is in his blood. His grandfather, the late Jim Osborne, was a doctor in Whistler who skied until he was 81 years old.

Manny began skiing when he was only three.

“When I was born, it was pretty much like put me on Ritalin or take me to do something,” he said, explaining his energetic disposition. “So my mom took me skiing, and after that we skied every chance we got.”

When he was 12 years old, Manny joined the Whistler Mountain Ski Club and began to compete.

One race in particular sticks out in his mind.

“It was during a Nancy Greene race. All day, I knew there was something wrong but I couldn’t put my finger on it,” he said. “After I had won the race, my parents noticed I had my boots on the wrong feet!”

This wasn’t the first of his boot escapades. Recently, at a World Cup race in Wengen, Switzerland, a fiasco at the starting gate left Manny without time to buckle up his boots. Nonetheless, he completed the race, placing fifth overall.

At the age of 15, Manny made the British Columbia Ski Team, an achievement that resulted in his move to Invermere.

“That was a big change,” he said. “I didn’t even know where Invermere was!”

But the town made its mark on the now 24-year-old skier, who was successful enough to buy a condo here in 2006.

“I wouldn’t be

Invermere’s own Manny OsborneParadis is ready for his Olympic run.

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

where I am right now if I hadn’t moved to Invermere,” he said.

For three years, he trained at Panorama with a team of coaches, including locals Glenn Thomsen of Invermere and Helmut Spiegl of Brisco.

“Panorama doesn’t get the powder dumps that some mountains do, so for ski racing and for actually learning to ski quality turns, it’s a great place to ski,” he said. “That’s why I am still here training right now.”

Although ski racing and high school created a gruelling schedule, Manny graduated from David Thompson Secondary School in 2003.

After graduation, he made the Canadian National Alpine Ski Team at only 18 years of age.

“I started being successful,” he said. “After high school you kind of take it year by year, saying ‘Oh, I will just try one more year and see how it goes.’ I kept trying and it kept working out, so I stayed with it.”

His persistence paid off. After three years on the development team, Manny moved to being what he calls a “fully-bred” downhill racer on the World Cup circuit, where he has spent the last three years of his career. During that time he has captured four podium finishes.

Last year, Manny was the top-ranked downhill skier in Canada. This year, after what he describes as a rocky start to the season, he is ranked 14th in the world, although in December, he earned a third-place finish in Val Gardena, Italy.

Manny is also an Olympic veteran, after his debut appearance at the 2006 Olympic Games in Torino, Italy.

Two other local athletes also made it to the 2006 Olympics – curler Christine Keshen, who came home with a bronze medal and has since retired; and fellow ski racer Christine Lustenberger, who has also left the professional circuit.

“At the Olympics, I was really nervous,” Manny confessed. “That was the first time I had been nervous about the race, not the course.”

He placed 13th in the downhill event, but Manny said he gained the confidence that will help him at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. Although he is looking forward to competing in his home country, he said that at the end of the day, the Olympic games are just that – games.

“The World Cups are as important as the Olympics to me, and I will be going 100 percent every World Cup until then.”

Manny’s season winds up on at the end of March.

He will return to his permanent home in Calgary and begin training for next season. He also said he is looking forward to spending time at his pad in Invermere.

But the off-season isn’t all about training. Manny and fellow Alpine Canada ski racer Mike Janyk have set up “Cowboys Camp,” a spring ski camp in Whistler for young racers who need financial help. For more info, e-mail cowboyscamp@live.com.

For more about Manny and his career, visit his website at www.manuelracing.com.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Let’s keep Whiteway white Submitted by Nick Berzins Columbia River Greenways Alliance

THANKS, COLUMBIA BASIN TRUST – The Columbia Basin Trust has awarded a $10,000 grant to Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club to aid the Lake Windermere Whiteway. Katherine Hamilton, Community Liaison for Columbia Basin Trust, handed the cheque to Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club President Darren Tamelin and

the amazing Jackrabbits ski group. Back row: Katherine Hamilton, Darren Tamelin and Shelley Tamelin. Front row: Aurora Orchiston, Calissa Tamelin, Carolyn McCleary, Kristyn Tamelin, Ryan Tamelin, Oliver Orchiston and Elizabeth McCleary.

Photo by Nick Berzins

Sally straps on her snowshoes, enjoys guided ecological tour

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff It’s a predicament that many are familiar with.

You want to go on a hike, but it’s winter. The snow banks are deep and the trails are hidden. What’s the answer? That’s right: snowshoes.

But Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has oneupped the traditional snowshoe experience. Naturalists Andi Dzilums and Jocelyn MacGregor guide eco-adventures through the Fairmont forest, pointing out animal tracks and giving an ecological history of the Columbia Valley. Then, after all that clomping, hikers are rewarded with a fondue in the warmth of Fairmont’s lodge.

It is the recipe for a perfect winter day. And that’s what I got when I joined Andi on a walk through the wilderness.

I was part of a group of eight, all new to snowshoeing. Once we learned how to strap the modern snowshoes to our feet (with rubber straps – simple), we were off, clomping across a snowy field

into the bush.

I’d like to say I found it easy, but this is a girl who can’t even walk on the sidewalks at the moment, so I was pretty uncertain at first.

But then I looked around me and realized that this was an opportunity to be in the forest in winter, when it is all cotton-ball snow and bare branches. Then I completely forgot about what I was doing, and just soaked it up.

As we walked, Andi pointed out trees marked by three different species; they had woodpecker holes, bear scratches, and bare patches from deer rubbing. He told us how the Rockies began to form 150 million years ago. And he took us to a viewpoint where, with binoculars, we could see eagles and osprey soaring.

After a long afternoon exploring, we headed back to the lodge at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

There we were treated to a chocolate fondue with marshmallows, strawberries and other tasty delights.

It was a delicious end to a wintery adventure.

The Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, the Lake Windermere Project, and the Columbia River Greenways Alliance are pleased to announce that they have teamed up for a lake clean-up day on Saturday, March 14th from 10 a.m. to noon.

The goal will be to assemble volunteers from the entire community to clean up garbage and waste along the Whiteway and over the lake surface prior to iceoff. All users of the Whiteway are asked to participate, not just members of the sponsor groups.

The lake is a source of drinking water, our kids’ summer swimming pool, and a home for our wildlife and aquatic species. The clean up of the lake surface is critical for those reasons and is key to receiving approval and funding to open the Whiteway next season.

Garbage bags and latex gloves will be provided by the Lake Windermere Project. Volunteers are asked to bring appropriate clothing and footwear. Work gloves and a shovel/trowel are optional, but suggested.

The gathering point will be the Kinsmen Beach trailhead and groups can select a specific area of the Whiteway to cover. When filled, the garbage bags can be left along the edge of the Whiteway for pickup so volunteers can do clean-up while out for a walk, skate, or ski. Notices will also be posted on fishing sheds, reminding the owners to remove them, along with associated garbage and waste, prior to ice-off.

The Whiteway is a groomed surface around Lake Windermere linking James Chabot Provincial Park to Kinsmen Beach, Windermere and the communities along the foreshore, including Indian Beach Estates.

The Whiteway provides about 15 kilometres of classic cross-country, skate-ski and ice-skating surface.

The project is a collaborative effort of the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club and the Columbia River Greenways Alliance.

During this inaugural season, the ski club has received rave reviews from the many residents and visitors who have used the Whiteway for skating, skiing, walking, mountain biking and jogging.

The Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club is also pleased to announce that on the evening of Saturday, March 14th, the Snowflake Gala fundraiser will be held at Eagle Ranch with the proceeds used in part to fund the Whiteway next season. The Gala will feature appetizers, beverages and a tremendous array of silent auction items. For tickets and information, please contact Darren Tamelin at 250-342-6504.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

March 6, 2009

Snow Scene: what is freestyle skiing?

By Mike Meadus Panorama Mountain Freeride Club Now in its second season, the Panorama Mountain Freeride Club would like to give you some in-depth information on freestyle skiing.

We develop the allmountain skier in your child, to teach them the fundamentals of skiing. As kids develop into athletes, they have the freedom to choose one of many avenues that skiing has to offer.

Freestyle made its Olympic debut as a demonstration sport in Calgary in 1988 and has gained widespread attention and undergone phenomenal growth in Canada and internationally.

The “new� discipline of Skier Cross has been accepted into the Olympics and will be staged alongside moguls and aerials on Cypress Mountain at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Aerials – Olympic discipline. At the national team level, competitors hit the jumps or “kickers� at speeds of 60-plus km/hour, launch themselves some 50 feet

in the air and perform triple back somersaults with up to five twists, landing on a steep landing hill.

Single Moguls – Olympic discipline. Speed, turns and air. Mogul skiing is probably the most accessible of the freestyle disciplines and is one of the most spectacular of all winter sports. Everyone who skis has had to negotiate bumps or moguls at some point and knows how challenging they can be. But the incredible skill, athleticism and courage of the world’s top mogul skiers make it look easy.

Dual Moguls – World championship discipline.

In dual moguls, competitors race head-to-head in knock-out rounds. The added adrenaline of racing side-by-side means skiers often push themselves beyond their limits which results in awesome mogul skiing.

Skier Cross – World Cup discipline/Olympic demonstration sport, Vancouver 2010. In this event, athletes ski down the equivalent of a mini-downhill course with a variety of “elements� (jumps, turns, hits, rollers) in groups of four. The object of the exercise is to make it down the course the fastest. The course is very tight, so there are plenty of opportunities for mishaps.

Half Pipe – The newest World Cup discipline. In half pipe or “pipe,� skiers fly off the side of a half-pipe

built with up to six-metre-high walls and perform a multitude of flips, spins and grabs. These skilled athletes can land and ski into their next hit going backwards.

Table Top (or “Big Air�) – Non-World Cup discipline. In table top, skiers fly off a gentler form of kicker and perform combinations of flips, spins and grabs and can choose to take off, or land, either forwards or “switch� (backwards). The event combines the skill and execution of aerials with the freedom of expression of the “free ride� movement.

Canadian Freestyle athletes such as Steve Omischl, Alex Bilodeau, Jennifer Heil, Kristi Richards and many more are looking forward and have more of a chance now than ever to bring home Canada’s first Gold on Canadian soil. With Olympic Moguls on the first day of Olympic competition, we might have that first gold sooner than we think.

If you would like to read more about Canadian Freestyle athletes, visit www.freestyleski.ca.

Locally, you have the chance to check out some exciting Freestyle competition at Panorama from March 13th to 15th at the annual freestyle weekend.

For more info, contact Panorama Mountain Village or the Panorama Mountain Freeride Club at 250342-9082.

Your Local Professionals TEAMRAVEN.ca

Mountain Creek Properties Ltd.

Paul: (250) 341-5300 paul@rockieswest.com

Strata, Rental & Commercial Property Management

Sean: (250) 341-5445

sean@rockieswest.com Invermere Offi ffice – 230 Laurier Street Fairmont Offi ffice – #4, Fairmont Village Mall PAUL ROGGEMAN

Phone (250)342-5599 • www.rockieswest.com

SEAN ROGGEMAN

Rockies West Realty Independently Owned & Operated

w w w. r o g g e m a n . c a

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

Phone: 250-341-6003

Email: bweissig@mountaincreek.ca

Paul Glassford Sales Consultant $FMM t

Daniel Zurgilgen www.maxwelldaniel.com

Invermere, Windermere, Panorama, Fairmont and Radium Hot Springs

EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Glenn Pomeroy glennpomeroy@shaw.ca

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU Christine Voss

BSc RMT

Complete Automotive Repairs

Over 20 Years Experience

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash) CALL 250-349-7550 • CELL 250-572-7983

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

D&D POOLS and SPAS Commercial and Residential Installation - Maintenance - Repairs Duane Huether

Darren Ross

250-341-POOL (7665)

250-341-SPAS (7727)

8931 Hwy 93/95 RR#2 Invermere, BC V0A 1K2 poolman-911@hotmail.com

Gary Hogarth Renovation Specialist at Large

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Basement Development • Additions (Start to Finish) • Excavating also available.

250-342-1657

Fullyy Insured

Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd. Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Alterations Repair • Bachelor Service

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

• • • •

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/ Interior/Exterior • Kitchen Renovations

Specializing in ALL types of stone!

• Residential • Commercial • Jesse Vader – Ken Johnson Call:

250.349.5564

250-342-5682

Dean Hubman

CertiďŹ ed Technician

342-3052

RR3, 4874 Ridge Cres.

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3

5077 FAIRMONT RESORT RD., FAIRMONT BC EMAIL: fairmontridge@telus.net

CLUB TOWING

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

Lambert

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228 BOX 459 742 - 13th STREET 7553 MAIN STREET INVERMERE, BC. RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1K0 V0A 1M0 PHONE: 342-3031 PHONE: 347-9350 FAX: 342-6945 FAX: 347-6350 Email: info@invermereinsurance.com • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

4999 Eagle Brook Court • Riverside Golf Resort 250-345-9113 • Cell: 250-270-0058

• Structural Timbers and Posts • KD Tongue & Groove (Pine, Cedar and Fir)

• KD Bevel & Channel Sidings • Radius Edge Cedar Decking 5/4 and 2� • Wide Plank F/L Flooring

Box 80 SKOOKUMCHUCK, BC V0B 2E0 PHONE (250) 422-9229 FAX (250 422-9227) Email: mardis@cyberlink.ca

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

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

• Bathroom Renovations • Additions • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Basement Renovations

PO Box 767, Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

• • • • • •

Commercial Residential Renovations Firestop Attic Upgrades Parkade Spray

Rob Smith • 250-342-5011 • 250-341-7272 • 1-866-513-9626 • www.frictioninsulation.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

March 6, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ESSO Automotive Repairs 7 days a week

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

GAS • PROPANE • DIESEL Freight & Passenger Depot

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

WINDERMERE 342-6805

(250) 347-9726 Q Q

NEW AND USED ARCTIC CAT SNOWMOBILES AND ATVS

FINE HOMESERVICES

REPAIRS, PARTS, SALES, WARRANTY, FINANCING

Sales • Services • Repairs

250-342-5047 1-888-357-4449

Q Q

Since 2001

Phone: 250-342-9207

Warbrick Towing & Salvage

Quality Hand-crafted Steel • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel VJ (Butch) Bishop Owner/Operator

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

• Structural Steel • Welding • Fabricating & Machining • Custom railings and ornamental iron #117 Industrial Rd. #2, Invermere, BC Ph: 250-342-9926 • Fax 250-341-3956 e-mail: txn@telus.net

DCS Plumbing & Heating

250.342.4426 Cell: 250.341.7227 Toll Free: 1.877.342.4426 Fax: 250.342.4427 redeye48@shawbiz.ca

next to Skookum Inn

1484 Hwy 93/95 Windermere, BC V0B 2L1

LIFE’S BRIGHTER under the sun.

Pierre E. Trudel Bus 250-270-0363 Fax 250-347-6948 pierre.trudel@sunlife.ca 4798 Selkirk Ave. Box 108 Edgewater BC V0A 1E0

• Plumbing, Repair and Installation • Drain Lines • Hot Water Tanks 24 hour emergency service

341-8501

#109-901 7th Ave., Invermere

Senior Discount

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

For competitive prices and prompt service call:

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

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU HAPPY FEET

Specializing in Pedicures & Massage

Shonese Hogarth

LAMBERT-KIPP PHARMACY LTD.

RV • Truck • Car Wash Open 7 days a week

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

Laura Kipp, Pharm D. Your Compounding Pharmacy

Licensed Hairstylist Licensed Esthetician Licensed Massage Therapist

Come in and browse our giftware

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

Ask about Pedicure Parties 250-347-2244 shonese_hogarth@yahoo.com

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

342-6612

Phone 250-342-8774 1361 Industrial Rd. #4 Invermere, BC

Lube Shop open Monday to Saturday RV Supplies open Monday to Saturday Sani-Dump

HOLLIS CONSTRUCTION Fine Finishing and Renovations

Gel Nails, Gel Toes, Eye Lash Perming, Lash & Brow Tinting.

Jared Babich Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter

1310 17 th Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K4

Tel: 250-341-7197

Located behind Tim Hortons • Ph: 250-688-0787

NEW

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall Panels Tel: 250.341.6075 Fax: 250.341.3427 Email: info@duskbuildingsystems.com www.duskbuildingsystems.com

1320 Industrial Road #3 Box 159, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Sewer/Drain Cleaning

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

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357

• Snow Removal & Sanding • Trucking • Piles & Posts

Kari & John Mason

attheshop@live.ca

250-341-5096

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BC Phone: PO Box 86, Athalmer, BC V0A 1A0 email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com Fax:

780.970.7040 250.270.0821

(250) 342-7100 (250) 342-7103

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

Your Weekly Source for News and Events “Your husband�called�and�said�you can�buy�whatever you�want...”

N E W S PA P E R

Dave Sutherland Sales Associate

1422 12A Avenue, Invermere B.C.

LICENSED

• FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONING • FIREPLACES • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

• All Grading • Under Slab work • Mini Track Hoe

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue Invermere, BC www.columbiavalleypioneer.com email: upioneer@telus.net

REFERENCES AVAILABLE

www.legacykitchens.com

Invermere

250.342.3577

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

March 6, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU Need Blinds?

Interior World

Serving Invermere and the Columbia Valley

HEAT PUMPS

window fashions

Sales and Service

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

g

y

Call today 250.342.1167

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

Telephone: 342-3659

Corporate Logos: Trade Name + Dea

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

Deep Connective Tissue/Fascia Bodywork Structural Balance

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

Certified Hellerwork Practitioner @ Renaissance Wellness Centre Box 185 / 505 – 7th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 250-342-2535

Professional Service Now Taking New Clients

SCRUBS

Executive Housekeeping Service Residential, al, Commercial & Property Management Man Experience. Environmentally Friendly Products Prod Used.

FREE Cleaning Consultation.

(250) 688-0790 • Email: scrubgrp@gmail.com

Call NOW:

688-0213

English

3/16" Minimum size to be used on business cards

Keeping Our Valley Super– Natural. We understand your home is a major investment. Let us help you keep it maintained.

We aren’t the cheapest, JUST THE BEST! • Carpets dry in about 1 hour!

• 100% guaranteed!

• Low Moisture • No Steam • No Sticky Residue • Upholstery • Area Rugs • Wood & Tile Floors • Vehicle Interiors • Free Estimates See more online at www.heavensbest.ca

Colour: PANTONE 349

• Drinking Water Systems • Water Softeners • Whole House or Specialised Filtration NEW Duct Cleaning Service Call (250) 342-5089 385 Laurier Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Worried about providing income in 1/4" Minimum size to be used on the standard sized your retirement?

MANULIFE SECURITIES INSURANCE AGENCY

See our ad on Page 20 for more details.

SERVING SMALL BUSINESSES IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

5/16" This size to be used on all oversized brochures.

Call 341-6299 to discuss your advertising needs.

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • E-mail: upioneer@telus.net

34 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

P ioneer C lassifieds Lost & Found

Notice

announcements

commercial space

suite FOR RENT

suite FOR RENT

$100 Reward offered: lost small yellow box, 4 inches x 6 inches x one inch, has white rocker switch on side with two terminals on top for wire connection. Call 250-417-5855 or email bob@ valleyblasting.com.

Vehicle to be sold under the Warehousemen’s Lien Act by D. Warbrick dba Warbrick Towing & Salvage. 2006 Silver Chev Cobalt.

Vin #1G1AM15B667804496.

Date of Sale: March 23, 2009.

Location of Sale: Warbrick Towing $ Salvage Compound (Hwy 93/95, Shuswap Village).

Time of Sale 5:01 pm. Name of Debtor: D. Warbrick dba Warbrick Towing & Salvage. Amount of Debt: $5,270.00 plus GST. (Five thousand, two hundred, seventy dollars).

Swimwear, beachwear, batik dresses, now at clearance pricing at The Mercantile. Just in time for Spring Break trips south.

Behind Dave’s Book Bar, next to the Post Office.

Financial professional looking for other professionals to share space with. I have a great location with excess room.

Please call 250-270-0270.

1 bdrm apartment in Radium, $575/month includes utilities.

N/S, N/P. 250-342-5159.

Bright 1 bdrm basement suite in Invermere. Great location, recently renovated, laundry available, separate entrance, N/S, N/P, $650.00 including utilities, 250-342-5785.

cheers & Jeers CHEERS: to Bill Mitchell for notifying me about my lost briefcase. Many thanks, John.

CHEERS: to my parents, Kent and Shelley Shoemaker, for being the most supportive people in my life! Love, Leah CHEERS: to Jenny at the Hoodoo Lounge for performing the Heimlich Maneuver and saving a young girl. Hoo Doo? Jenny definitely do! Saving lives one escargot at a time! Margret.

Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS Estate of WILLIE FIKA, also known as WILLIAM FIKA, also known as BILL FIKA, Deceased.

Vehicle to be sold under the Warehousemen’s Lien Act by D. Warbrick dba Warbrick Towing & Salvage. 1998 White GMC 1500 4x4.Vin # 1GTEK19R6WR501633.

Date of Sale: March 23, 2009.

Location of Sale: Warbrick Towing $ Salvage Compound (Hwy 93/95, Shuswap Village).

Time of Sale: 5:01 pm. Name of Debtor: D. Warbrick dba Warbrick Towing & Salvage. Amount of Debt: $3625.00 plus GST. (Three thousand, six hundred, twenty five dollars).

announcements

Notice is herby given that creditors and others having claims against the estate of Willie Fika, aka William Fika, aka Bill Fika, deceased, who died on the 19th day of January, 2009, late of P.O. Box 14, Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia, are hereby required to send them duly verified to the Executor of the Estate of Willie Fika, aka William Fika, aka Bill Fika, c/o Gerald J. Kambeitz, Steidl Kambeitz Law Corporation, #201, 907 Baker Street, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 1A4 on or before the 3rd day of April, 2009, after which date the assets of the said Estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims that have been received.

shineresume@gmail.com

Caroline Jane Buzzell, Executor c/o Gerald J. Kambeitz Steidl Kambeitz Law Corporation Barristers & Solicitors 250-426-7211

Rocky Mountain Buffalo Now available at Grant’s Foods 503 – 7th Avenue

Call 250-342-9438 to place your classified ad.

The Feriancek family invites you to celebrate Joe and Thelma’s 50th wedding anniversary on August 9, 2009 in Chilliwack.

Please RSVP by July 9 so motel and RV accommodations can be arranged. Please call 1-604316-3891 or 1-604-316-3892.

Alcoholics Anonymous. Open to all. Regular meetings of the Columbia Valley A.A. are held at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at the Valley Connection, far end of the Service B.C. building, 625-4th Street, Invermere. The Radium Friendship Group meets at 8 p.m. Friday at the Catholic Church, east side of main street, Radium.

storage

250-688-0707

Room for rent – separate bathroom and living room, shared kitchen, utilities included, $500/month. 250-347-7724.

Furnsihed room, Canal Flats. N/ P. Avail. Immediately. First and last months rent needed. Call to view. 250-270-0273.

suite FOR RENT

One or two bdrm bungalows

NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE

By the week or month, (250) 345-6365 Fairmont Bungalows.

Various sizes available.

Now with climate controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637

Affordable accommodation in Radium. $425 and up. Call 250-3417022.

380-square-foot garage available immediately. Great contractor location. Reduced to $300/month. Call Mom’s Upholstery, 250-342-0355.

Invermere, must see, 1 bdrm, large, bright upper suite.

Half-block walk to beach and downtown, own entrance & parking, very private upper deck with amazing lake views, $800, all utilities included, 250-3421056.

commercial space Resume Design & Interview Coaching

SHARED ACCOMMODATION

Attention Contractors! Secure 20-foot storage container in fenced yard. Larger lots also available. Invermere Industrial Park. Call 250-342-2100 or 250346-3011.

Panache Building, Invermere, BC. Beautiful building near public beach and walking distance to hundreds of condos in Canada’s most perfect fourseason town! 2400 feet on main, with two 1200-foot world-class apartments up. Perfect location for restaurant or retail. For info, call 250-342-5525.

Newer daylight walk-out suite.

Compact 1bdrm for quiet person, N/S, N/P, $695/month. Available immediately, 250-342-4416.

1 bdrm basement suite walkout, W/D, N/S, N/P, close to downtown and beaches. $600/ month furnished or unfurnished, includes utilities and electricity, $300 D.D. Avail. April 1. Call 250342-7547.

2 bdrm basement suite in Canal Flats, N/S, N/P, $900/month + DD, heat and utilities included, Available immediately, 250349-7568.

New 2 bdrm w/garage on Windermere acreage, 2 bath, furnished, $1,050/month. Call Linda, 403-244-8402.

WALK TO DOWNTOWN & KINSMEN BEACH.

house FOR RENT

FOR RENT Contact

250-342-5914 for seasonal or long term rentals or go online at

www.EricRedeker.com “Available Now” Rockies West Realty Independently Owned & Operated

Radium 2 storey home, 3 bdrm, 3 bath, N/P, N/S, large patio, fireplace, patio furniture, BBQ. Available immediately. $1,200/ month + util, 1-403-560-3677.

For pictures ecosierragolf@ gmail.com

Spacious, clean 2 bdrm basement suite, separate entrance, 4 appliances, backyard amenities, N/P, N/S, references/ deposit required. $900/month utilities included. Available Apr 1st , 250-342-7590.

2 bdrm main level, fully furnished, large balcony, includes TV, cable, internet, all utilities, parking. Couple preferred, no partiers, references, walking distance to town. Avail. March 1, 250-342-8651.

Invermere, 2 bdrm fully furnished ground floor apartment at 1309-11th Avenue.

Utilities, cable, laundry facilities and storage locker included, $950/month plus DD. N/S, long term preferred, 1.5 blocks from downtown! Call 250-342-9712.

3 bdrm, 3 bath home in Invermere, great location, nice small fenced yard. N/S, N/P, couple preferred. Call 250-3427430.

Large, bright 2-bdrm suite, furnished or unfurnished, 5 new appliances, N/S, one pet allowed, utilities included. Avail.

March 1st . Call to view, 250341-1099.

2 bdrm + den/3rd bdrm, all appliances, 5 mins. from D/T Invermere, N/S, N/P, $1250/ month + util, references required, 403-874-0483.

2 bdrm, partially furnished, close to everything, 129-11th Avenue, Invermere. N/S, N/P. $800/month includes cable and utilities. 250-341-6287.

2 bdrm basement suite w/ private entrance, all appliances, 5 mins from D/T Invermere, N/S, N/P, $950/month + util.

References required, available April 1st , 403-874-0483.

Invermere, 2 bdrm, petfriendly house near schools and downtown, with large yard, avail. April 1. $1,250/month plus DD. 250-347-7724.

Invermere, near Sobeys, 3 year old house, 3 bdrm, 4 bath, all major appliances, wood burning stove, A/C, nice backyard, basement with separate entrance, no yard work. Quiet location, available April 1st for long-term. $1600/month + util, 250-342-5229.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

March 6, 2009

P ioneer C lassifieds house FOR RENT

condo FOR RENT

Duplex for rent. Black Forest Heights, 2 bdrm, W/D, fridge, stove, dishwasher, big yard, storage building, no dogs, $1,000/month, 250-347-9629.

Windermere Point, 2 bdrm plus den, 2 bath, facing lake, fully furnished, underground parking.

Avail. May 1. Weekly, monthly or seasonal. Call 403-561-0111.

condo FOR RENT

Radium: 2 bdrm condo at The Peaks, furnished, utilities included, available April 1, $1,100/month. Call 250-3417022.

Sable Ridge, Radium, 2 bdrm, 2 bath w/den, fireplace, A/C, granite, pool, 2 hot tubs, heated underground parking, $1,195/ month includes utilities, 403256-0694 or 403-650-5503.

Lakeview Meadows ‘Cottages’ 3 bdrm, fully-furnished unit, stone fireplace, golf cart, beach access and recreation centre. Available April 1. $1,500/month + utilities. Contact heidilp2005@ gmail.com.

RADIUM, gorgeous 2 bdrm, 2 bath unit w/ breathtaking mountain views now available; 5 appliances, includes in-suite laundry & parking. Won’t last! $1,195 + utilities. Michelle, 403-650-7435.

Radium Condo for sale or rent, 2 bdrm, 2 bath + den. Open to offers, 250-347-2252.

Radium­-FULLY FURNISHED. Large windows & large deck, backs onto 13th hole of The Springs Golf Course. Available now, 2 bdrm, 1 bath, bungalow style in Eagle Crest Villas. Single car garage, 6-month minimum lease. $1,250 (includes condo fees) + utilities + DD, N/P, N/S. References required. 403-5192216 or 403-981-1551.

2 bdrm condo near Sobeys. N/S, N/P, $900. Call 250-342-6255.

Canal Flats, 2 bdrm, 1.5 bath, 9foot ceilings, front facing entry suite in very classy four-plex, partly furnished, $900/month + utilities + DD, N/S, N/P, 403802-4053.

Condo for long-term rent. One bdrm, one full bath, luxury condo for long-term rent in Sable Ridge Resort, Radium.

Built in 2007, fully furnished with penthouse furniture, gourmet stocked kitchen with all appliances, eating bar and dining table. Queen bed, stone gas fireplace, TV, DVD, private patio with BBQ, ensuite washer/ dryer, use of outdoor hot tubs, pool and clubhouse. Heated underground parking with storage. To view pictures, go to www.ownradium.com (gallery photos). Long-term rental, $950/month includes utilities except phone and cable. Call Karen, 403-710-4448.

2 bedroom condo, 5 appliances, NS, NP. Available April1. $1000 + util. 342-1475.

house for sale

HERITAGE RANCH HOUSE Completely renovated house on 2.5 acres located outside of Windermere, in Elkhorn Country Estates, an exclusive private gated community, one of only 11 estates included in phase one. 4 bdrm, 2 bath, security system, working shutters, all services underground, all furniture included, $485,000. Call Elkhorn Ranch at 250-342-0617 or 250342-1268

.

house for sale Searching through MLS® listings can be tedious & time consuming. Sign up to receive up to date, detailed MLS® listings, delivered to your inbox. No obligations & completely confidential. www.bcrealestatesearch. com Jenny Bueckert, Maxwell Realty Invermere.

4 bdrm, 3 bath, office, laminate floors, large fenced backyard. Walking distance to all amenities. 137–10th Ave. $485,000, 250-342-3100 or 250-342-1092.

BEAUTIFUL FAIRMONT HOME WITH REVENUE SUITE. This 6 year old, 3300 sq.ft., 6 bdrm. home is located on Riverside Golf Course. Main floor: 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 5 appl. all stainless, beautiful views. Downstairs: 2 bdrm private entry suite, new kitchen,5 appl. Walk out to golf course. Double car garage, underground sprinklers, large driveway, a must see, $629,000.

Call 250-314-7682 or email for photos bruce_terri@hotmail. com

condo for sale Must sell! Condo in Sable Ridge, Radium, 2 bdrm, 2 bath w/den, fireplace, A/C, granite, pool, 2 hot tubs, heated underground parking, $279,900 OBO, 403256-0694 or 403-650-5503.

ACREAGES/LOTS FOR SALE

Spectacular Private Gated Acreage One of only 10 prestigious 3 acre estate lots in this private community. On a hill with 360degree mountain views, minutes from Windermere beach. See welist.com Invermere. 250-3425367.

RESORT PROP. FOR SALE

vehicles for Sale

services

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Golden www.adlerdevelopment.ca 250-344-8447 billy@adlerdevelopment.ca

1989 Honda Accord, black, 2door, good condition, manual transmission, great starter car for young driver, $2,500 OBO. Call 250-342-0350.

Misc. for Sale

2005 Toyota Echo hatchback, 5-door, manual transmission, silver, excellent condition, 100,000 km. Includes 4x all season and 4x winter tires, custom stereo, roof rack, $10,200. Call 250-342-8631.

Vacuums Parts, repairs & accessories, All makes & models Central Vacuums – sales and installations Bonded & licensed Fine Homeservices 250-342-9207, fhs@telus.net

Top quality Hay, Alfalfa, grass mix, round bales $160/bale. Call Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-0617.

Quality Top Soil & Manure.

Top Soil 160/dump truck load, $70/pick-up load. Manure $100/ pick-up load. Call Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-0617.

GE washer & dryer, like new, only used 2 years, $500, 250342-2274.

Majestic elk head, huge rack, much below cost, $1,450. Call Bob, 250-345-6668.

Future Steel Shop, 25’ x 40’, has down anchor plate and insulation, $12,900. Lazy Boy couch and recliner chair, blue, $200, 250-342-9629.

2003 Acura EL. Original owner, 4-door, 5-speed, 40+mpg, low mileage, one-year extended warranty, A/C, AM/FM/CD, security system, extra set tires, all maintenance records, excellent condition, $14,900.

250-347-6584.

2003 TDI Jetta, 184,000 km, well-maintained, must see, must drive! Best offers over $8500, 250-341-3521.

services

White portable dishwasher, $75.

Maytag washing machine, $100.

All in good working condition, 250-342-6952.

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

Phone 250-341-8033 cell or 250-342-8474 home. Not on valley time.

Firewood fir, pine mix. Cut, split and delivered, $150 per halfcord, $275 per full cord. 250342-5118.

Flooring Installations, lino, carpet, laminate and hardwood.

30 years experience. Call 250347-9192 or 250-341-1235.

vehicles for Sale

Mother of three is opening home-based day care centre with 2 full-time spots available.

Call 250-342-2815 for further information.

1991 Dodge Dually Cummins, 5spd, 2-wd, loaded, 265,000 km, $4,900. 250-342-9629.

2001 VW Jetta, 136,000 km, excellent condition, dealer maintained, fully equipped, must see! $10,500. 250-3428339.

2007 Toyota Tundra SR5, TRD off road, fully loaded, excluding leather, 49,000 km, $29,900, 250-341-7197.

Need a babysitter for spring break? Call Kalie, 250-3422118.

careers Housekeeper required. Fulltime, part-time at Fairmont Bungalows. Call 250-345-6365, fax 250-345-6348, or email bungalows@shaw.ca.

Eagle Canada Inc. Seismic Company based in Calgary is currently seeking the following for its winter season: Line Truck Drivers, Line Helpers, Shooters/ Blasters. Excellent physical condition, meals & hotel included, valid Class 5 drivers licence is a must, DRUG TESTING is required. Up to $5000/month.

Please send your resume with references and phone numbers to rsmith@eaglegeo.ab.ca , fax, 403-263-7776.

Tony’s Greek Grill now accepting resumes for experienced kitchen and counter servers, starting April to September. Please fax resume, 250-544-3475.

Dirty Blinds, blind cleaning & repair. Now taking bookings for spring cleaning 2009. Call Cathy, 250-345-2164.

Local, private guest ranch/lodge, looking to hire a motivated, detail-oriented person. Job includes housekeeping, lawn & garden, horse care, & assisting with maintenance of building, grounds, & systems. Position starts April. Email resume royalantler@gmail.com, 250342-5299.

Chinook Handyman Services.

Renovations, decks, garages, carpentry projects large or small. Call Doug, 250-345-2164 or 250-341-1619.

Helna’s Stube is now accepting applications for kitchen help/ dishwashers and servers. F/T or P/T, evenings. Call 250 347 0047 or mail@helnas.com.

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

P ioneer C lassifieds careers

careers

Liquor Store Clerk: The Radium Liquor Store is now accepting applications for a full-time Clerk position. Applicants must have Serving It Right certificate, be physically fit, reliable and must be able to work flexible shifts including evenings and weekends. Knowledge of wines and spirits a definite asset. Apply, with resume, in person to the Radium Liquor Store, beside the Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery, by email to horsethiefpub@ telus.netor fax (250)347-9987.

Experienced cooks and servers for La Cabina Restaurant.

Call 250-347-2340 or email lacabina@nanonow.ca.

Full-time or part-time hair stylist required at Anglz Hair Studio.

Contact Maria, 250-342-3227.

Spur Valley Golf Resort is now hiring for seasonal full-time and part-time positions for the golf course. Competitive wages and benefits. Contact Kelly at 250347-6500 or send resume to kg@shaw.ca.

Local greenhouse and nursery business is looking for a hard working individual to join our team. Seasonal full-time from late March to mid June. Duties will include soil preparation, handling nursery stock, field work, machinery operation and some heavy lifting. Must be self-motivated and cheerful.

Call us at 250-342-3236 to submit resume.

Liquor Store Manager: The Radium Liquor Store is now accepting applications for the position of Store Manager. Candidates must have excellent customer service skills, possess the Serving It Right certification, experience with computers, be able to work flexible shifts, including some evenings and weekends.

Candidates must also be physically fit and be a team player. Prior experience in the Liquor Sales Industry is a definite asset. All interested applicants may submit their resume, in confidence, to Wendy at the Radium Liquor Store, beside the Horsethief Creek Pub & Eatery, by email to horsethiefpub@telus.net or fax 250) 347-9987.

Kari’s Kitchen is currently looking for qualified individuals to join our Food and Beverage team. Positions are seasonal and range from part-time to full-time starting April 1st and ending October 15th. Contact Kari @ 250 342-3004 or submit resumes by fax to 250 342-0119 or by email to kdawsonwv@shaw.ca

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 6 International Student Program

HOMESTAYS NEEDED

School District No. 6 (Rocky Mt.) requires host families in Invermere to accommodate International students for David Thompson Secondary School immediately and also starting September 2009. Host families provide a family environment with a private bedroom, three meals a day, a study area, transportation assistance and high speed internet access.

Remuneration of $600.00 per month per child is paid for hosting a student.We need your support now! Homestays are required to submit a criminal records check.

If interested please contact Lori Sluth (Homestay Coordinator Invermere) at 250-346-3377

Framers, siders, wanted. Must have 2 years experience and own vehicle. 40hrs/week, benefits. Call Scott., 250-270-0745.

Housekeepers / Room Attendants Bighorn Meadows Resort is currently seeking detail oriented, energetic, room attendants and laundry personnel. Related experience will be considered an asset. Full or part time hours are available. Eligible candidates must have the ability to work weekends. Bighorn Meadows Resort is an equal opportunity employer and offers a competitive salary/health benefit package and is committed to providing a superior employee experience. Interested applicants please forward your confidential resume to: pbusch@bighornmeadows.ca or by fax to (250)-347-2311 attention Pearl.

On the Springs Golf Course Bighorn Meadows Resort, #10 Bighorn Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, V0A 1M0

Staff Accountant Robert D. Harvey & Co. Inc., CGA is a professional accounting rm located in Invermere. We are a quality driven and customer focused organization in need of a Staff Accountant. Our ideal candidate would possess the following skills: Job Duties/Responsibilities: - Bookkeeping and bank reconciliations - Computerized payroll - Prepare GST & PST tax returns accurately and timely - Reconciliation and analysis of accounts and booking of journal entries - Preparation of year-end working papers for a variety of businesses - Preparation of personal income tax returns - Special projects as required Education/Experience Requirements: - Working towards completion of accounting designation, degree or diploma is desirable - Strong computer, bookkeeping software and excel skills a denite asset - Strong analytical and accounting skills - Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks Email resumé to rharveycga@cyberlink.bc.ca or drop at Invermere ofce.

Robert D. Harvey & Co. Inc. offers a competitive compensation package and excellent opportunities for growth. Only resumes of candidates being considered will be acknowledged.

Do you want to grow? Both personally and professionally?

Come to Golden, BC and join our amazing team.

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

Golden, BC – the place with room to grow!

SITE MANAGER

GOLDEN & DISTRICT HOSPITAL GOLDEN, BC Permanent full-time position QUALIFICATIONS:

• Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing; Masters Degree in a health related field preferred.

• A minimum of five years recent related acute care/ residentialcare experience with three years in a management/ administrative position.

• Current practicing membership with the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia We invite you to apply online at www.roomtogrowbc.ca to EK-EXC-EXC-09-117386 before March 22, 2009 or submit a detailed resume, in confidence to:

Human Resources Recruitment Services 1212 Second St. N. Cranbrook, BC V1C 4T6 Phone: 250-420-2442 Fax: 250-420-2425 E-mail: debbie.mandryk@interiorhealth.ca

Room to grow.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

March 6, 2009

To place your Community Classified call The Pioneer at 250-341-6299 or toll free 1-866-669-9222 classifieds@bccommunitynews.com www.communityclassifieds.ca

Auto Financing

Business Opportunities

Career Training

Financial Services

Help Wanted

Pets

EAGLE AUTO LOANS. Easy financing.

Good credit, poor credit, divorced, first time buyers, self employed, bankrupt. We finance in-house OAC. Call our credit specialist 1-800-916-1723. www. secondchancefinance.ca.

MONEY MAKER - Local route, no selling on your part. For more info call 1-866-978-2569.

TRAIN FOR A NEW CAREER in Medical Transcription. Learn from Home! Earn from home!

Contact CanScribe today for a FREE information package. 1800-466-1535 www.canscribe. com, info@canscribe.com.

DEBT STRESS? Consolidate & lower payments by 30-40%. End those phone calls & the worry.

Avoid bankruptcy. Contact us for a no-cost consultation. Online: www.mydebtsolution.com or toll-free 1-877-556-3500.

CHECK OUT OVER 50 trades options. 7 weeks theory, 12 weeks work placement in trade of your choice. Fairview Campus, Fairview, Alberta. Affordable residences. 1-888-999-7882; www.gprc.ab.ca/fairview.

$500$ LOAN SERVICE, by phone, no credit refused, quick and easy, payable over 6 or 12 installments. Toll Free: 1-877776-1660.

DOG LOVERS! Enjoy a healthy, profitable career as a professional dog trainer. Government accredited program - student loans and grants. Two spaces available for our spring program.

Ben Kersen & the Wonderdogs. www.wonderdogs.bc.ca. 1-800961-6616.

LOVE ANIMALS? Love a career as an Animal Health Technologist.

On-campus working farm.

Small town environment. 2year diploma program. Fairview Campus, Fairview, Alberta.

1-888-999-7882; www.gprc. ab.ca/fairview.

EXPERIENCED CRUSHER/ Paving personnel, apprentice or journeyman heavy-duty mechanics, full-time, willing to work out of town. Fax resumes: 250-493-4464, mail: 716 Okanagan Ave. E, Penticton. BC, V2A 3K6.

NOUVEAU CONSTRUCTION & Cabinets: we do rock walls, laneways, shallow servicing, bush clearing, septic, weeping tile, renos, new construction, cabinets, countertops. Phone Al, 250-306-7502; www. nouveaugroup.ca.

AUTO LOANS GUARANTEED! BC’s best auto finance company 1,000s with credit problems have bought vehicles and Reestablished credit. Best rates, Best prices guaranteed. No payments for 90 days, 0% down.

Free delivery anywhere. www. firstchoiceautofinance.com 1.866.635.3024.

APPROVED AUTO FINANCING. w w w. c re d i t - q u e e n . c a .

Challenged/no credit? New, used, all makes vehicles at Canada’s most reputable dealership. Low rates, online approvals 24/7. Joanne,1-866602-3743. DL 5231. $500 CASH BACK. Come to the right place to buy a new/used vehicle. What ever your credit, we finance the future not the past. Delivery B.C./Alberta. www.drivehomenow.com or 1888-501-1148. # #1 IN CREDIT REBUILDING. Need a car, truck, van or SUV? Auto Credit Fast. Bad credit! No credit!

Bankruptcy, Repossession! No problem. Call today and drive away. Call Stephanie 1-877-7920599. Free delivery anywhere, www.autocreditfast.ca.

Auto Parts GET YOUR FOOT in the garage door. General Mechanic program. Fairview Campus, Fairview, Alberta. 32 weeks.

Write Heavy Duty or Automotive Mechanic Apprenticeship Exam.

1-888-999-7882; www.gprc. ab.ca/fairview.

REACH YOUR TARGET MARKET. Community Classifieds are printed in over 600 newspapers across Canada each week. Book now at www.communityclassifieds. ca or contact by email - ads@ bccommunitynews.com. Phone 1-866-669-9222.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN a pet food business - High quality cat/dog food. Excellent returns, exclusive territories.

Information Call Riplees Ranch Toll-Free 1-877-738-3287 Ext. 217, www.ripleesranch.com.

NEED MORE MONEY? Want a career? Work from home!

We train you! Check out the Freedom Project! www.judysminioffice.com.

ENERGIZE YOUR INCOME! Distribute hot selling energy drinks. Earn up to 10K/month. $11 Billion Industry. No selling, minimum investment 19K. Areas going fast. Free sample/ information Package 800-2672321. Peakdistributors.com.

CHEAP PHONE RECONNECT! Connect now for a Great Deal!

Calling features, long distance & save $$ on High Speed Internet!

Phone Factory Reconnect 1-877336-2274; www.phonefactory. ca.

Career Training VOLUNTEER IN AFRICA and Central America: Campus California TG places trained, international volunteers in communities suffering from: Poverty & lack of Education/ Resources. Programs are 9,14 & 20 months. Fees apply. www. cctg.org Phone; 510-734-6777.

Email; anthony@cctg.org.

Credit Counsellors BECOME 100% DEBT FREE!!

One easy monthly payment.

Free Consultation. Member of BBB. Check us out at www. iamdebtfree.com. 1-800-5654595.

DEBT CONSOLIDATION PROGRAM. We help Canadians repay debts, reduce or eliminate interest, regardless of your credit. Steady income? You may qualify for instant help. Considering bankruptcy? Call us first 1-877220-3328. Free consultation.

Government approved program, BBB member.

Education PENNY WISE JOURNALISM SCHOLARSHIP for women. The winner will receive a total of $2,500 to study journalism in the eight-month journalism certificate course at Langara College in Vancouver. Visit www. bccommunitynews.com for details. Deadline: May 01, 2009.

Employment Opportunities TRAINING OR RETRAINING? Think Trades! Heavy Duty, Automotive, Motorcycle or Powersports Mechanics. Work Practicum.

Write Apprenticeship Exam.

Fairview Campus, Fairview, Alberta. Affordable residences.

1-888-999-7882; www.gprc. ab.ca/fairview.

For Sale Misc.

SAWMILLS from only $3,495.00 - Convert your logs to valuable lumber with your own Norwood portable band sawmill. Log skidders also available. www. nor woodsawmills.ca/400T - Free Information: 1-800-5666899.

A FREE TELEPHONE SERVICE - Get Your First Month Free.

Bad Credit, Don’t Sweat It. No Deposits. No Credit Checks. Call Freedom Phone Lines Today TollFree 1-866-884-7464.

H & H TRAILER SALE. Bow Valley Ford, Canmore, Alberta.

Discounts to $4,100. Cargos/ flatbeds/car haulers/goosenecks and more! 1-800-403-0084 ext. 257 or alan_way@ bowvalleyford.com. Selling fast, don’t delay!

ADD AND SAVE on home phone reconnection. Bad credit - no problem! Up to $30. off for new customers, plus lower monthly rates! Call Tembo 1-877-2666398 or sign up online www. tembo.ca.

Help Wanted REMOVE YOUR RECORD: A CRIMINAL Record can follow you for life. Only Pardon Services Canada has 20 years experience.

Guaranteeing record removal.

Call: 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366). www.

RemoveYourRecord.com.

EARN 384 DAILY! Data entry positions available Now! 100% Legit! Internet access needed.

Income is guaranteed! No experience required. www. thedataprogram.net.

Personals ARE YOU LOSING a loved one to substance abuse? Our program has the highest success rate.

Help is only one phone call away! 1-877-782-7409; www. narconon.ca.

LICENSED LIFE COACH and holistic healer. One free question by phone. Succeeds where others have failed. Stops divorce, depression, reunites loved ones, restores fulfillment.

305-600-8309.

DATING SERVICE. Long-term/ short-term relationships, Free calls. 1-877-297-9883.

Exchange voice messages, voice mailboxes.1-888-534-6984.

Live adult casual conversations1on1, 1-866-311-9640, Meet on chat-lines. Local single ladies.1877-804-5381(18+).

Services

DIAL-A-LAW offers general information on a variety of topics on law in BC. 604-6874680 (Lower Mainland) or 1.800.565.5297 (Outside LM); www.dialalaw.org (audio available).

Lawyer Referral Service matches people with legal concerns to a lawyer in their area. Participating lawyers offer a 30 minute consultation for $25 plus tax.

Regular fees follow once both parties agree to proceed with services. 604-687-3221 (Lower Mainland) or 1.800.663.1919 (Outside LM).

Travel TIMESHARE FORECLOSURES - Save 60-80% off Retail! Best Resorts & Seasons! Call for FREE catalogue today! 1-800597-9347. Browse hundreds of worldwide properties online -www.holidaygroup.com/bcn.

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES - Book Online at www.canadatravels. com and save more on your vacations. Use code NCA74327 for discount or call us toll-free at 1-800-563-5722.

There’s a reason they’re called “CLASSY”. Pioneer Classifieds…

N E W S PA P E R

Phone: (250) 341-6299 • Fax: (250) 341-6229 • Email: upioneer@telus.net

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D Submitted by Rosemary Clarke, Past President Columbia Valley Unit, Canadian Cancer Society Vitamin D is needed for healthy bones and muscles, especially in children and the elderly. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium which in turn aids in the formation and maintenance of strong teeth and bones.

It also helps keep muscles strong. Older people have a greatly reduced risk of falling if they continue to have stronger muscles and a reduced number of fractures if they do fall. There is also growing evidence that Vitamin D may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal, breast and prostate cancers. You can get Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, in your diet (especially if you eat foods fortified with Vitamin D) and by taking

vitamin supplements.

Experts are now concerned that many people are not getting enough Vitamin D. Due to Canada’s northern latitude and because the sun’s rays are weak, the Canadian Cancer Society recommends that adults consider taking a vitamin D supplement.

Talk to your doctor about taking 1000 international units (IU) of Vitamin D daily during fall and winter months. Babies who are exclusively breastfed might also be at risk of Vitamin D deficiency and mothers should talk to their doctors about possible supplementation.

You may not be getting enough Vitamin D if you are elderly, have dark skin, don’t go outside often, or wear clothing covering most of your skin.

If you are in one of these groups, talk to your doctor about whether you should take a vitamin D

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

DO YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE FUTURE OF INVERMERE? If so, please attend this Open House & Presentation!

Monday, March 9th, 2009 WESTSIDE BOUNDARY EXPANSION (GRIZZLY RIDGE PROPERTIES LTD.) District of Invermere Council wishes to gather the views of all residents of Invermere. We invite you to attend a Public Open House and Presentation.

When: Monday, March 9th, 2009 From: Where:

5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Invermere Community Hall

What:

The District is requesting public input on the proposal to expand the municipal boundaries to include portions of Grizzly Ridge Properties Ltd. & adjacent lands (the former Hofert lands).

Why?

Council wishes to provide the public with: • An opportunity to view the municipal expansion area; • To review the parkland dedication requirements; • To discuss the reasoning behind municipal expansion; and • To gather your views as it relates to the proposed boundary expansion

Format: This is an open meeting and we encourage all interested persons to attend and provide input on the proposed boundary expansion application. This meeting will be an open house format with a formal presentation to be held at 7:00 p.m. Following the presentation the District and proponent will answer any questions you have. The District encourages all residents to provide their views, comments and concerns. Please submit all comments by email: info@invermere.net, fax: 250-342-2934 or drop it off at the District office. For more information, please contact Rory Hromadnik, Director of Development Services 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC 250 342-9281 ext. 235 Please note that from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. is an informal drop-in format, after that there is a formal presentation followed by a question and answer period. **Please also note that the other dates scheduled for the open house of February 26th and March 11th have been cancelled.

supplement of 1000 IUs every day, all year round.

The Cancer Society does not recommend taking any more than these amounts because too much vitamin D can be harmful. Current evidence suggests that taking this amount will help reduce your risk of cancer but with the least chance of harm.

A few minutes a day of unprotected sun exposure is usually all that is needed to get enough vitamin D. You don’t need a tan to get benefits from the sun. Even with the benefits of vitamin D, the Canadian Cancer Society still promotes its SunSense guidelines as skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canada. This includes reducing exposure to the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest, using a sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and seeking shade.

GET PUMPED TODAY Why should we pump out septic tanks?

- Avoid costly repairs, regular maintenance is cost effective compared to replacing your septic system - It could stop working at the most inconvenient time (middle of winter, or a party, etc) - Save the environment, a full (or malfunctioning) tank could saturate and pollute the surrounding area, including creeks, ponds, and lakes. This could give off a foul smell, affecting the neighbourhood - Tanks close to the surface could freeze during the winter months if not used regularly - Septic tanks not used regularly also tend to fill quicker as the bacterial action stops working when not used (part time user should have their tanks pumped just as often as full-time users) - Your septic system is designed to last a very long time if maintained properly

TANKS SHOULD BE PUMPED EVERY 3 YEARS For More Info:

Contact Bruce of Dehart Sewer & Drain Ltd. 250-347-9803

You can remember someone special with your gift to the Canadian Cancer Society (also known as the BC Cancer Society) To donate In Memory or In Honour: www.cancer.ca | 250-426-8916 or call toll-free 1-800-656-6426 or mail to: P. O. Box 102 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Please include: Your name an address for tax receipt Name of the person being remembered Name and address to send card to

Don’t Miss an Issue!

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

Let’s Make Cancer History

www.cancer.ca

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

March 6, 2009

Valley Churches

FAITH

Why believe in the Bible?

By Pastor Scott Peterson Valley Christian Assembly In this day and age we have many forms of theology, ideology, and world views.

The Bible is the standard of truth for believers in Christ within mainstream evangelical churches, but why is this so?

Do we who call ourselves Christians know why we believe what we believe?

Let me establish one very important point: we are saved by God’s grace, through our faith – believing Jesus Christ is God’s son and acknowledging Him as the Lord of our life.

Choosing to accept the Bible as the authoritative word of God is first an act of faith; however, it doesn’t stop there.

There is clear historical, archaeological, and logical reasoning to believe that the Bible is what it claims to be – a record of events, prophecies and teachings which formulate our biblical truths.

Did you know that the New Testament has more copies of manuscripts passed down through the centuries than any other historical book, with more than 5,000 corroborating accounts written in Greek, Latin, Syriac, Coptic, Armenian and Gothic?

The next closest work of antiquity is Homer’s “Iliad” from the ancient Greeks, which has fewer than 650 manuscripts available.

Did you know that the respected 1st century historian Josephus, who was not a Christian, documented in his work “The Antiquities” that Jesus was indeed a teacher of influence who performed miracles?

Did you know that modern archaeological digs have uncovered finding such as the pool of Bethesda and the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947, verifying the accuracy of biblical authors?

Did you know that of the 2,500 prophecies written in the pages of the Bible, nearly 2,000 have already been fulfilled?

The Bible predicted world events such as the rise and fall of the Greek and Roman empires, the temple of Jerusalem being destroyed (which occurred in A.D. 70) and the rebirth of the nation of Israel (which took place on May 14, 1948).

The odds of accurately predicting events which will occur hundreds of years later are astronomically low, yet in every incident the Bible has proven true.

All 66 books which make up the Old and New Testaments support and coincide with one another, providing us with a moral compass and proven principles which work to make us a better people.

Our nation’s laws are built upon biblical principles, without which we would experience chaos and confusion.

Why believe in the Bible?

The Bible is the infallible, authoritative Word of God, which holds the keys to life transformation!

will be in Golden on March 14 for a day of Dancing and Culture.

The Workshop will be held on

Saturday March 14th from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Civic Center.

It is open to everyone. A Lunch will be available.

Valley Christian Assembly Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship and Word.

Children’s Church provided during the message.

7 p.m. Wednesday: Adult and Children’s Programs Pastor T. Scott Peterson • 4814 Highway 93/95, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com Roman Catholic Church Saturday: 5 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Church in Canal Flats 7 p.m. at Canadian Martyrs Church in Invermere Sunday: 9 a.m. at Canadian Martyrs Church in Invermere 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Radium Father Jim McHugh 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 250-342-6167 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 10 a.m. Worship service 7 p.m. Special Praise, Special Prayer and Especially the Love of God Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Worship Service, 10 a.m. • Sunday School, 11 a.m.

• Relief Society, Noon.

President Barry Pratt • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-341-5792

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

1229-7th Ave., Invermere

342-6415

BUY LOW & UPGRADE VALUE

We are Pleased to announce that th

Windermere Valley Shared Ministry ANGLICAN-UNITED March 8th: 10:30 a.m. at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com

• Kitchenaid • Inglis • Whirlpool • Roper

Metis Nation Columbia River Society

Beverly Lambert

Lake Windermere Alliance Church March 8th: 10.30 a.m. “Camp Sunday”.

Guest speaker Reverend Ric Cyr, director of Eagle Bay Camp.

Sunday School, pre-school to Grade 7, during service.

7 p.m. Sing and Celebrate For sermons online: www.sermon.net/lwac Pastor Trevor Hagan • 326 -10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org

Some light reading to help your young ones get through Spring break INVERMERE CHRISTIAN SUPPLIES

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

WHAT GOES INTO the h MIND TM COMES OUT in a LIFE

Walk to beach, downtown and schools.

Quiet treed location in Invermere. 3 bdrm, full basement, 80’ x 100 ‘ lot.

$

285,000 MLS#K180441

• Radium • Invermere • Fairmont • Windermere • Panorama

Call 250-341-6151 or 1-888-341-6155 rayfergusonrealty.ca • WE SELL REAL ESTATE

40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 6, 2009

fractional, 1/8, 1/4 or whole ownership from $17,900 nightly accommodations available for a luxurious getaway

www.bighornmeadows.ca .COM

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1-888-766-9637 info@bighornmeadows.ca ďż˝