vol9issue5

February 3, 2012 Vol. 9/Issue 5

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 February 3, 2012

P ioneer

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

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Gone fishin’ The annual fishing derby on Lake Windermere drew 88 participants on January 28th. Clockwise from top left: Rick Magri catches a full can of gingerale, which quickly became a hot commodity among the fishing derby participants; Vince Olsen sits back and lets the fish come to him; Matt Johnson shows off his smallest fish winner, which measured 4.75 inches.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

Valley NEWS

Province, resort supporters flying to France

By Kelsey Verboom Pioneer Staff A delegation that includes provincial and local government, as well as proponents of Glacier Resorts Ltd., the company behind Jumbo Glacier Resort, is hopping on a jet plane to France to meet with companies interested in investing in B.C.’s ski industry.

The purpose of the trip is to meet potential investors who, if interested, could bolster B.C.’s ski industry as a whole, and also local ski resort projects like the proposed Jumbo Glacier Resort, should the development get the green light from the provincial government.

The trip came about after Minister Pat Bell, B.C. Minister of Jobs, Tourism, and Innovation, was contacted by a consortium of partnering companies in the French ski resort industry looking for investment opportunities in North America specific to the ski industry.

Minister Bell responded in November, saying, “In our recently launched ‘Canada Starts Here - The B.C.

Jobs Plan’ we have strongly articulated our commitment to making B.C. the number one skiing destination in North America. On this basis we are keenly interested in your expertise in that area and look forward to working with you to develop a better understanding of the opportunity that lies before us.”

Minister Bell is unable to make the trip to France, so he is sending Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett, former Tourism Minister, to represent him and the province.

Next week, the following people will be travelling in a group with Mr. Bennett to meet the French investors: Rainer Giersch (European representative for B.C.), Oberto Oberti (Oberto Oberti Architecture, Pheidias Project Management and Glacier Resorts Ltd.), Grant Costello and Jill Bodkin (Glacier Resorts Ltd.), Mayor Dee Conklin (Village of Radium Hot Springs), Rick Jensen (Panorama Mountain Resort), Doug Clovechok and Todd Mitchell (Invermere and the Columbia Valley), and First Nations representatives from the Simpcw Band of the Valemount, B.C., area, where another glacier ski development is cur-

rently being planned by Valemount Glacier Resorts Ltd. Referring to the potential investors only as “a major resort company,” Mr. Bennett said, “The company has been interested in the Jumbo Glacier Resort (JGR) project for over a decade and is returning to B.C. later this winter to further assess JGR, as well as a project in the Valemount area.

“The company is well aware that the JGR project lacks a signed Master Development Agreement, but is also aware that it has an Environmental Certificate and an approved Master Development Plan.”

Mr. Bennett has decided to pay his own travel expenses for the trip, with the French group paying his expenses while he is in Europe. He is not receiving financial assistance from any B.C. project proponent, he added.

The importance of the trip centres around job creation, which is currently lacking in B.C., he said.

“Premier Christy Clark has made families the focus of everything we do in government.

Story continued on page 5 . . .

Parks Canada pays firm $400,000 to boost brand

By Kelsey Verboom Pioneer Staff With visitor numbers down across Canada’s national parks, Parks Canada has hired a marketing firm to breathe new life into its brand. However, although stats point to ebbing visitor numbers nationwide, the number of people visiting Kootenay National Park has actually risen slightly.

The number of visits to Parks Canada attractions slipped from 21.8 million in 2006-07 to 20.2 million in 2010-11 — a seven per cent drop nationwide.

But in Kootenay National Park, visitor num-

bers have gone up incrementally (visitor numbers are logged for people who make a stop in the park, not those merely driving through). For the 2010-11 fiscal year, the park logged 429,365 visitors, which is a slight increase from the previous year, said Alex Kolesch, acting visitor experience manager for Kootenay National Park.

“That number has gone up and down over the past three or four years for sure, but it has been relatively stable,” he said. “With a couple of exceptions it has been between the low 400,000-450,000 range for the past 10 years.”

In the past decade, the peak year for visitation

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was 2007-08, with 455,000; the lowest number of visitors was 390,000, which was recorded in 2003-04 when wildfires plagued the park and province of B.C. Despite Kootenay National Park’s steady visitor numbers, the mountain parks (Kootenay, Banff, Yoho, Jasper, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, and Waterton Lakes) took a fiscal hit this year, with revenue dropping from $68.7 million in 2009-10 to $66.5 million in 2010-11. The same trend is true across the country, so Parks Canada is taking steps to brainstorm ways to increase brand awareness and bring more money into the coffers.

Story continued on page 22 . . .

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

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• On January 26th at 6:50 p.m., the Columbia Valley detachment received a report of a possible impaired driver near Olive Lake on Highway 93 in Kootenay National Park. A white Volkswagen Jetta was discovered in the ditch. A passing motorist reported that when he stopped, the men in the vehicle smelled of alcohol. A second driver dropped off the two men in town and also contacted the police with their suspicions. Patrols of the area failed to locate the two men.

• On January 27th at 4:50 p.m., police responded to a complaint of a hit-and-run in the 4800 block of Stanley Street, Radium. A suspect vehicle — later determined to be a GMC pickup from parts found on the ground — rounded a corner too fast and collided with a 1998 Lincoln Navigator. Anyone with information is requested to contact the Columbia Valley Detachment.

• On January 28th at 2 a.m., officers responded to a single-vehicle accident involving a 2005 GMC pickup truck driven by a 28-year-old man from Airdre, who hit a moose. There were no injuries to the driver, but the vehicle was extensively damaged.

• On January 28th at 2:35 a.m., security at Panorama Mountain Village attempted to deal with a highly intoxicated 19-year-old from Calgary who was found in a hallway. Security attempted to assist the man, who was uncooperative due to his state of intoxication. Police were called to assist and as there were no responsible people to care for the man, he was taken to the Bed no Breakfast Inn at the detachment and released when sober.

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Fraudulent emails hit the valley There is no limit to the lengths people will go to in order to get your money. We have had two recent attempts at fraud. The first incident was brought to the detachment’s attention after an ad was posted in a local paper. There was no address or phone number, just an email address and a promised opportunity to make money selling oil.

A citizen responded and received a cheque for a large amount out of the blue, with instructions to go to the bank, keep a small percentage and send the rest to an address in China. The citizen caught on fast and reported this and when the person at the other end inquired after their money, they were advised that any further inquiries should be sent to the Columbia Valley RCMP. The second attempted fraud has been reported by the

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Risk assessment Anyone involved in management and leadership is aware that decisions need to be made to assess the risk of projects or initiatives. You analyze the situation and make your decisions to risk it or not. Bearing that in mind: a while ago, I was off duty and on my way to Vancouver in an unmarked police car, in street clothes.

In Revelstoke, I observed a marked police vehicle heading out, lights and sirens blaring. I figured if I came across the car again I would stop and assist — possibly an accident. West of Revelstoke I observed two parked police vehicles and learned from the officers they’d had an attempted robbery and were headed on foot to the suspect’s house.

It was a rural area with a long driveway, so I grabbed the shotgun from my vehicle and headed up the dusty gravel. As I approached the trailer I noticed two other officers there, one I knew well. My shotgun was by my side when my friend, who had no idea I was on scene, yelled a warning of “gun” to the other officers, while looking in my direction. I turned around to see if someone was approaching us from the back with a gun. No one.

I turned back, still quite a distance away, and he was still staring at me. I was in civilian clothes and not expected to be there, so I called out, “Marko. I’m a member.” (Al is getting on in age, maybe his vision is lacking?). “Drop the gun now!” he yelled as his hand dipped to his holster. Risk assessment: do I drop the gun on the dusty gravel road and have to later clean it or do I continue to walk closer and hope Al recognizes me?

I risked it, yelling out louder, “I’m a member!” (not only is he blind, he’s getting a little deaf also). My shotgun remained by my side, barrel pointing down as Al yelled louder, “Drop the gun!” but this time his hand was on his sidearm and the holster was being unsnapped.

Drop the gun, scratch it, dirty it and then clean it, or take a few more steps and yell a little louder? Odds were if he couldn’t recognize me at that distance, he was probably a poor shot like me. Taking a couple more steps I yelled, “I’M A MEMBER!” “Marko, how the hell are you doing?” he responded.

We took our suspects into custody and all ended well. I never asked Al how many more steps I could have risked!

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

February 3, 2012 . . . ‘Province, resort proponents fly to France’ continued from page 3 “When you think about it, there are few things more important to families than a good job,” Mr. Bennett continued. “Although B.C. is doing well, compared to the rest of the world, there are still people looking for jobs in our region. When I see an opportunity to help create those good new jobs, not much will stop me from trying.

“I want to see new investment and good jobs happen here in the East Kootenay and in B.C. generally,” Mr. Bennett said.

“I know there are opponents to Jumbo Glacier Resort and I respect that fact. But families need good jobs and on the basis that there are no high-mountain, glacier-based ski resorts in North America, as there are in Europe, I am going on this investment mission ... Responsible development is something our province needs and our region needs, and I support it.”

With the recent January 23rd deadline for the province to complete consultation with First Nations on the Jumbo Glacier Resort project having passed, rumours have been swirling that the government will now sign

the Master Development Agreement for the resort.

Grant Costello, vice president of Glacier Resorts, said the timing of the trip to France has nothing to do with such rumours.

“I want to make clear that the province did not invite or select the participants — France is the inviting party,” Mr. Costello said. “This trip was going ahead whether or not there was a Master Development Agreement. It would be great timing for us if it were to happen, but we would move forward with this regardless.”

The province’s support of the ski industry in general is encouraging for Glacier Resorts Ltd., Mr. Costello added.

“It’s important for any investors and manufacturers from Europe that we would want to work with here.

They like to be assured that the government is supportive of the projects and their potential involvement.”

Mr. Costello said that no investment partnership has yet been made with any company in France, and that no company would invest unless the final steps of the Master Development Agreement are complete.

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Cocaine charge overturned

By Kelsey Verboom Pioneer Staff The B.C. Court of Appeal has overturned the conviction of a man who was pulled over by Columbia Valley RCMP while driving a truck with cocaine hidden under the hood.

On March 14th, 2007, members of the Columbia Valley Detachment pulled over a pickup truck on the highway west of Radium Hot Springs, acting on information received from an off-duty officer.

Using a police dog, the officers located a bag containing 170 grams of cocaine concealed under the hood of the vehicle.

As a result, Christopher Walter Foy, who was driving, was charged and eventually convicted of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

He appealed the charge, arguing that he didn’t own the truck (it was registered to a third party) and

didn’t know there was cocaine under the hood. Also, there were no fingerprints found on the bag of drugs.

The trial judge who made the conviction concluded Mr. Foy had control over the truck so he was in possession of the cocaine, and that because of the amount of cocaine seized it was reasonable to believe it was for the purpose of trafficking.

The judge’s decision was recently overturned by a three-judge panel at the B.C. Court of Appeals.

The Crown argued that the original verdict was “unreasonable” because there was no evidence Mr. Foy could have known about the cocaine — the truck didn’t belong to him, the cocaine was not visible, nor did it produce a smell, and there were no fingerprints pointing to Mr. Foy. The panel of judges agreed that there was no direct or circumstantial evidence to infer Mr. Foy knew that the drugs were in the vehicle, and so they acquitted him of the charge.

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February 3, 2012

perspective Historical Lens

A new low

By Kelsey Verboom Pioneer Staff

The prospect of culling a portion of Invermere’s mule deer population has been great for jolting people into discussion and debate. As the sheer volume of letters and Cheers and Jeers in the past few Pioneers have shown, more people than usual are becoming involved in a local issue, which is fantastic.

On the downside, some of the participation has sunk to a childish, abhorrent level. This week I learned, with great disappointment, that a group of people has started a boycott of the personal businesses of the mayor and council of Invermere. This isn’t the first time something similar has happened in our community — a list of business owners who support Jumbo was circulated years ago, encouraging people not to shop at those places.

These tactics have no place in our wonderful community. No matter how controversial the issue, people should be able to comfortably voice their opinions without fear their personal lives will be damaged.

That is, after all, the crux of a democracy. Threatening the personal livelihood of local government members does nothing but undermine the entire democratic system.

For all the wrong reasons, such deplorable tactics run the risk of discouraging current and potential mayors or councils from running in another election, which will only cripple the entire system and limit the full potential of our local governments.

Instead, I have a proposal to all those who have suddenly decided to become so vocal about this issue: come to more than one of the council meetings and engage yourselves in the full process of all of the issues in the Columbia Valley. You will then have the opportunity to hear all the facts, reasoning, and discussion before an issue is decided, and being thoughtfully engaged from the beginning will allow you to provide input and possibly change the direction of issues you disagree with.

As newspaper staff, we sit in on almost all of the valley council meetings, and I can say with emphasis that hardly anyone from the public ever shows up. Why not learn from this particular issue and change that trend? If you don’t make the effort to be engaged from the start, you don’t have the right to complain after the fact.

Gathering of journalists A group of journalists gather around a campfire outside the John Murray Gibbon home in 1923. Bliss Carman is pictured at far right, with Frederick Niven peeking out from behind Mr. Carman. Nothing else is known about the photograph. Do you know why these journalists gathered in Invermere? Email us with more info: news@cv-pioneer.com.

Photo A808 courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Why not castrate the deer?

Dear Editor:

With reference to the need for a cull of deer in the area, and recent articles regarding the method — humane or not — and very emotional speeches and letters in The Pioneer, Valley Echo, and the Cranbrook Daily Townsman: I have some suggestions to make.

Do not kill the deer, but over a five year trial period, steadily tranquilize or sedate and castrate the

male deer. This is a recognized method on farms all over the world to reduce the percentages of males in the poultry, pork, cattle, and equine populations of domestic creatures. Farmers, sons of farmers, and veterinarians have been doing castrations for as long as we remember — and before!

This would be a humane (!) non-lethal, population reducing method.

Shirley Campbell, Invermere

The Columbia Valley

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Misko Publishing Limited Partnership, Robert W. Doull, President.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Ave., Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 250-341-6229 Email: info@cv-pioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Rose-Marie Regitnig Publisher/Sales Manager

Kelsey Verboom Editor

Kate Irwin Reporter/ Special Publications Editor

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

February 3, 2012

LETTERS

Town deer aren’t natural Dear Editor: I want to thank Alita Bentley for writing in to The Pioneer and I want to put my voice behind hers in support of the cull. I would like to respond to the letter written saying that the cull is a massacre.

I understand that this is a very emotional issue and that people feel strongly about it but we also need to apply some logic to the problem.

Elephants, sharks, tigers and seals do not reside in the middle of towns and cities eating garbage out of cans and stomping on pets. They are not a risk to children playing in their own front yards, or families taking a walk down main street. And you can bet that if a tiger were to attack a child, or even a pet in the centre of an urban area it would be hunted down.

This is about so much more than deer eating a few petunias. This is about a population of deer who have forgotten what they are.

Deer in the wild are timid, run from predators and have keen defensive instincts. The deer in our town are bold, even aggressive, and do not run from cars, people, dogs or anything else. They don’t migrate like deer in natural environments do, instead choosing to fawn in town,

making them even more of a hazard.

Town is not choosing to “wipe the deer off the face of the earth,” nor would anyone in Invermere want that! They are choosing to manage an overpopulated species that is ballooning because it has no natural predators.

Deer in the wild are killed by wolves, cougars and other predators, not to mention starvation. And the lesson I want my child to take away from this whole ordeal is that nature is a balance, and right now things are terribly out of balance. And that is dangerous for people and animals.

I do not want to live in an “animalfree zone.” I do love seeing deer in our town. I love that my daughter gets excited when she sees them. But I want my daughter to grow up knowing that deer should not be fed, that they do not eat out of garbage cans and that they run when they see predators (including people).

If a pack of dogs had taken over our town, running in front of cars, chasing pets and children and tearing apart garbage, we would act. Yet because these are deer we are supposed to fortify our homes, never leave our fenced yards and let them run wild. That makes no sense to me.

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Move the deer with trailers Dear Editor: The proposed mule deer cull in Invermere is unnecessary and expensive. These are Crown animals and were here long before we were.

This valley has many knowledgeable people who are experienced in exactly the type of solutions required to remedy this questionable problem. They’re called ranchers, big game hunting guides, Rod and Gun Club members, old timers, etc.: people who care about the land and its wildlife.

Here you have at your doorstep (and free of consulting fee charges) all the knowledge and experience. In fact, some of these people have firsthand experience at collecting, transporting and relocating big game animals all over the valley.

In other words, it has been done before and successfully. Why kill these beasts when they’re easily and safely removed and relocated to Crown land to never return?

The Nature Conservancy is just down the road. With the help of volunteers, these animals could be collected, loaded in donated horse trailers, and moved anywhere, and for a fraction of the cost of the brutal cull.

The deer will not return. This was the case with elk and Bighorn sheep which were relocated a few years back. I can just see the public reaction if Radium proposed a cull of Bighorn sheep — another Crown asset.

It seems a shame to waste 100 deer for a few tulips.

Bob Nemeth, Invermere

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

LETTERS God and the deer cull Dear Editor: To my brothers and sisters: dearly beloved, humans are still on the warpath.

Oh, that you could know to be on your best behaviour, but that is too late anyway. You, children of God, are deer and know to be as you are, not to be as man wants you to be, but man seems to be too ignorant of life to know that too.

What can we do but continue to be true to ourselves? I want a miracle for you to spare your lives, but it is not for me to

say how or what it will be.

I only know what is the law of life, as God created it to be, that as we do unto others so it will be to us.

You are innocent and beautiful, and if given the opportunity to respond with love and joy, you would do it, in whatever form that would take.

Live and let live is your demonstrated way of life. So be it!

Mark Pocock Invermere

Government is Goliath, not environmentalists Dear Editor: In a recent editorial Kelsey Verboom presented a spirited attack on environmental groups and their impact on the economy. At the end of her opinion piece she invites readers to respond to her views.

I must confess that I initially reacted with dismay at what appeared to be a harsh and biased attack. However, I soon realized that Kelsey was using a time-tested technique to elicit a response from her readers.

Good teachers know that by taking a provocative and one-sided position on an issue, they can get a lively discussion in class. Even the most disengaged students participate and become involved.

Kelsey’s “Modest Proposal” to counteract the influence of environmental groups involves eliminating their charitable status, and prohibiting them from accepting funding from foreign interest, thus turning them into a bland and powerless movement.

She seems to argue that government support of environmental organizations creates an uneven playing field. It’s clearly unfair to pit the “bloated cash flow” of these groups against the billions that energy companies receive in tax deductions

and direct subsidies! Let’s see, millions versus billions. Who is the Goliath in this battle?

Funding from international sources is criticized as unwelcome meddling in our national interests. However, there seems to be no moral objection to the influence exerted by foreigners who own a large percentage of Canada’s energy companies.

If it were not for the obstructionism of the environment movement, her reasoning goes, companies would be free to build projects to stimulate the economy.

No recognition is given to the fact that the constant vigilance of independent environment groups and their insistence on upholding the highest possible standards have forced companies to consider more than the bottom line in their projects and expansions. We know the consequences of assuming that self-regulation is sufficient protection.

Kelsey, your approach worked extremely well. You managed to snap me out of my complacency and lethargy and made me react to your editorial. In your next one, maybe you can present the other point of view!

Julio Esteban Invermere

Wildsight is ‘proud’ of American funding Dear Editor: Several years ago, at the height of land use conflicts in the valley, I walked into a pub to meet with a group of hunters, some with mixed emotions about “environmentalists.”

I was called over by a local rancher and logger. He told me that some of the guys were upset about Wildsight and had threatened to burn down my beehives on his ranch. We had talked about the environment over the years and he, like many of the ranchers and loggers I know, had a strong land ethic. His response to those who were in disagreement with Wildsight’s position was that they would have to come through him if they were going to touch those beehives.

“We might disagree on some issues,” he said, “but we agree at least 80 per cent of the time and that’s better than I’m doing with my wife.”

Over the past 25 years Wildsight has taken thousands of school children outside into local ecosystems so that they understand their place in the Columbia Basin.

We have partnered with communities such as Invermere in assessing greenhouse gas emissions (that project was funded by an American foundation!). We have promoted higher environmental standards for forestry, resulting in Tembec’s Forest Stewardship Council certification and a premium on their pulp sales.

We have partnered with local

and provincial governments in order to improve water management, promote recycling, recover mountain caribou and address access concerns.

Wildsight is volunteers, a very small staff of two, and contractors in communities across the East Kootenay. These people initiated recycling efforts, clean up wetlands, and promote clean air initiatives (no idling!). Wildsight’s work is directed by people who care about the future of where we live — a place of globally significant environmental values.

Wildsight has been recognized with the BC Minister of Environment’s Conservation Award, the Canadian Environmental Award and the BC Real Estate Foundation Award.

And yes, we receive American funding, as do many of the charitable environmental organizations we partner with such as World Wildlife Fund and the Nature Conservancy.

We’re proud of it. We partner with other charities such as the Canadian Cancer Society to achieve shared goals for a healthy environment and healthy communities.

We take action so that future generations will have the benefits of clean water, fresh air and wild ecosystems. We invite everyone to be part of this work, even if you only agree with us 80 per cent of the time.

John Bergenske Executive Director, Wildsight

We welcome your letters E-mail your letters to info@cvpioneer.com or visit our website at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at 1008-8th Avenue.

Please keep submissions to 400 words or less. Letters may be edited for content, length, grammar, or accuracy. The opinions expressed in the Letters section are not those of The Pioneer.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

February 3, 2012 . . . LETTERS continued from page 8

Common sense is dead

Dear Editor: I attended the January 24th Invermere town meeting because of the deer cull. So did many other people. It’s not easy for everybody to public speak and for some people, including me, it can be very stressful.

Nevertheless, people spoke. They did so regardless of their fears because they feel so very strongly about this issue. There were a couple of stories about herds of deer attacking dogs in yards, and people concerned about the safety of their children.

Safety being the foremost reason for the cull was questioned, and not the destruction of vegetation. Never was the validity of these stories questioned, but I’m sure they were, silently. We all know that people will exaggerate a story to give it more impact, and even more so when emotions are high.

As the discussions progressed, safety came to the forefront more and more. It was like a building of momentum. Clearly, this was alarmism! Now suddenly we

reached a point where we have “run out of time!” Something had to be done right away. There was no longer any time left for any other solutions!

Relocation was off the table because of the province not responding. Sterilization was never discussed. I wish I would have thought about it then. I did ask if the cull was a permanent solution, to which I got the reply that they didn’t know.

Well, obviously it isn’t. The deer will reproduce. Later I did some research about sterilization as a means of controlling deer populations and found that a lot of programs were met with a good measure of success. I also did some research on bolt guns. I wish I hadn’t.

So, because of a handful of alarmists in Invermere not being realistic about the danger of deer, many animals will have this cruel act done to them. They won’t be the first to die though. That’s already happened to common sense in Invermere.

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Ringside seats Wildlife buff and photographer Larry Halverson snapped these photos of two bucks sparring on January 25th, which usually occurs in November. It didn’t take long before the deer gathered an audience — a rafter of wild turkeys with ringside seats to the fight. Photos submitted

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

Canadian Tire to soon open doors

Thank You!

By Kate Irwin Pioneer Staff

On behalf of the 2012 Snowflake Festival Committee, we would like to thank everyone for a very successful 3rd Annual Snowflake Festival.

A big thank you to the volunteers who gave up their time to make sure the events were a great success!

Any event would not be successful without the interest and participation from the community, thank you!

The committee would also like to thank the following organizations: • • • • • • • • • • •

District of Invermere Ross Goodwin (fireworks!)

DOI Public Works Staff Levine Electric Max Helmer Construction Invermere Home Hardware Columbia Valley Rockies Jr. B Hockey Team Lakeside Pub Copper City Saloon Quality Bakery Rocky River Grill

• • • • • • • •

Wildfire & Chopper’s Landing Elements at Copper Point Resort Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Panorama Mountain Village L8 (the Band) Invermere Business Committee Invermere District Curling Club Invermere Rotary Club

Watch for future information regarding the 4 th Annual Snowflake Festival!

Construction is complete, staff have been hired and now work is underway to fill the interior of Invermere’s new Canadian Tire store, which will “definitely open before April,” revealed branch owner Craig Knapp.

Craig Knapp “It’s all about the inside of the building at this stage,” he told The Pioneer.

“We’re installing phone lines, building offices and putting together the final pieces of the jigsaw puzzle ... it’s fun to see the store come together.”

The new, 20,000 foot retail outlet, just off Athalmer Road, now has its full complement of 35 workers — hired at a well-attended job fair in December — who will help to shape the interior of the store and stock it before opening day.

A sneak-peek at the plans for the Invermere branch shows an extensive garden centre area to the left of the store entrance, vehicle service bays and an automotive department, and a cycling centre selling bikes and cycling supplies for children and adults, along with a store-

ful of Canadian Tire products selected for the local area.

Home and garden supplies, tools, electronics and appliances, and sporting and outdoor recreation equipment will all be available, Mr. Knapp said, noting that any product carried by Canadian Tire can be specialordered if not already in stock.

“I’m a great believer that you don’t really ask people to shop locally, you create an environment where they want to shop,” he added. “You need to be competitive — you can’t expect customers to go somewhere that isn’t the best value.”

With that in mind, Mr. Knapp is promising pricing to match all other Canadian Tire stores and said that selecting stock for Invermere will be a constantly evolving process to reflect local demand, with requests welcomed.

Currently Mr. Knapp, who has been with the Canadian Tire Corporation for 13 years, is predicting a ‘soft’ opening for the Invermere branch during the third week of March. The store’s official grand opening date is set for April 26th, with four days of special offers lined up.

“We’ll have deals going from the first day,” added Mr. Knapp, who has moved to the area from Wallaceburg, Ontario, where he owned and operated another Canadian Tire branch. “I’m feeling confident. I think there’s a lot of need locally for the products we’ll be selling ... having more things available in the local area should attract more people, which helps out the overall community.”

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer 11 Page• 11

February 3, 2012

What’s Happening in the Columbia Valley

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

PAGE 12

ART FOR THE ICE

PAGE 17

Pond hockey weekend

In conjunction with the B.C. Pond Hockey Tournament beginning February 3rd, Invermere’s Artym Gallery is hosting a winter artwork exhibit, with paintings like this acrylic titled ‘Invermere at its best’ by artist Katerina Mertikas.

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

Centre Ice Art Contest Art Show At Pynelogs

Jan 31 to Feb 4 – 11 to 4 pm What does ART mean to you? Coincides with the BC Pond Hockey Championships Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423.

Page 13

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

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

Movie Review: In Time Reviewed by Joshua Estabrooks I wanted to like this movie. I really truly did. The concept for Andrew Niccol’s latest film, In Time, is incredible. A dystopian, futuristic Robin Hood-like tale, the film tells the story of a society that is made up of genetically modified humans who only have a year to live after they reach 25. The allotted year begins to count down on their arms with fancy digital clock special effects, unless they are able to earn more time.

Time becomes the new currency, and as is the case in every society, there are those with more time than they need, others who scramble each day to gain a few more hours or they won’t live to see the morning, and those who want to turn the system on its head.

The concept alone was enough to get me excited, my enthusiasm barely dampened by the knowledge that

former pop crooner Justin Timberlake took the lead role of Will Salas. Salas unexpectedly comes into a century of time and decides to escape the ghetto in which he lives, taking on the system in the process.

The problems with this film began immediately, due entirely to the stiff, boring acting that writer, director and producer, Mr. Niccol, seemed to encourage throughout the movie. At first I forced myself to overlook this, giving the director some creative licence, but it became incredibly obvious that the two-dimensional characters and cheesy, forced dialogue were not a strange form of tribute to the acting style developed and encouraged by David Lynch, but rather an inability to get the actors to engage with the material.

There just wasn’t enough character development, period. By the time the drama hit, less than 10 minutes into the story, I didn’t care enough about the characters to feel

anything about their plight. A soggy piece of cardboard could have elicited more emotion from an audience, and Mr. Niccol may have saved some money in his budget had he employed paper cutouts of his chosen actors, as they would have done as good a job, if not a better one, than the cast he paid to act out his otherwise genius idea.

I did stick it out through the whole film, and yes, there are some moments that justify slapping it into your video playing machine, but I found myself constantly wishing the material had been passed on to someone else to bring to the big screen, as those involved in this production basically glazed over what otherwise would have an incredible film.

RATING: 6 OUT OF 10 HEADS

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

February 3, 2012

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS etc. For info: 250-342-4423.

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies versus Creston Valley Thundercats at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Out & About Please call 250-341-6299 or e-mail us at info@cv-pioneer.com to enter your event in our FREE listings.

Saturday, February 4th:

Submissions must be received by the Monday prior to publication. We may only run an entry for two weeks prior to the event. Please limit your submission to 30 words. Priority is given to one-off events, so weekly events may run rarely.

Toby Theatre • February 3rd - 4th, February 9th - 11th, 7:30 p.m.: The Muppets.

• February 17th - 18th, February 22nd - 25th, 7:30 p.m.: Mission Impossible - Ghost Control.

For info: www.tobytheatre.com.

Friday, February 3rd: • 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Katerina Mertikas Exhibition “Pond Hockey...Winter Memories” at the Artym Gallery. For info: 250-342-7566.

• 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Centre Ice Art Contest art show at Pynelogs. For info: 250-342-4423.

• 6:30 - 9 p.m.: B.C. Pond Hockey Eastern Championship tournament play on Lake Windermere at Kinsmen Beach.

• 7 p.m.: 29th annual Starlight Challenge at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort ski hill. $89 per person for dual slalom racing over four consecutive Fridays in February. Includes a buffet dinner and many prizes on the last Friday. For registration and info: 250-345-6037.

• 7 p.m.: Open Mic at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. A great opportunity for musicians of all ages to perform and meet other musician folk in a fun, creative and supportive atmosphere. Hosted by Oso Simple.

Admission is a $2 donation to Columbia Valley Arts.

Refreshments available, and with proper ID you can enjoy an adult beverage. Performers: Jade Bowen, Raven McAllister, Nat McGrath, Blake Glassford, Kyra Warren, Eli Beingessner, Steve O’Shaughnessy,

• 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Katerina Mertikas Exhibition “Pond Hockey...Winter Memories” at the Artym Gallery. For info: 250-342-7566.

• 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Centre Ice Art Contest art show at Pynelogs. For info: 250-342-4423.

• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.: B.C. Pond Hockey Eastern Championship tournament play on Lake Windermere at Kinsmen Beach.

• 11 a.m.: Registration for 11th Annual Snow Golf on the Lake at Kinsmen Beach. Shotgun start at noon. $30 per person, must be 19 years or older.

Tickets available at Ray Ray’s: 250-342-8346.

Sunday, February 5th: • 9 a.m. - noon: B.C. Pond Hockey Eastern Championship tournament play on Lake Windermere at Kinsmen Beach.

• 12 noon - 4 p.m.: Katerina Mertikas Exhibition “Pond Hockey...Winter Memories” at the Artym Gallery. For info: 250-342-7566.

• 1 - 3 p.m.: Semi-Finals and Finals of the B.C. Pond Hockey Eastern Championship on Lake Windermere at Kinsmen Beach.

Monday, February 6th: • 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Food Bank Annual General Meeting at the College of the Rockies. For info: 250-342-3196.

Tuesday, February 7th: • 9 - 11 a.m.: Job Fair at the Lodge at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort for spring and summer season. For info e-mail: hr@fhsr.com.

• 1 - 3 p.m.: Job Fair at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, at the ski area Chalet, for spring and summer season.

For info e-mail: hr@fhsr.com.

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies versus Golden Rockets at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Wednesday, February 8th: • 1 - 2:15 p.m.: Seniors’ Day at the Invermere Public Library. The community bus will pick up and drop

off at Columbia Garden and at the Manor. For info: 250-342-6416.

Thursday, February 9th: • 4 p.m.: Annual General Meeting at the Radium Public Library. For info: 250-347-2434.

• 6:45 - 7:15 p.m.: Pyjama Story Time at the Radium Public Library.

• 7 p.m.: The Columbia River Greenways Alliance is holding a public meeting at Copper Point Resort.

Key topic for discussion will be the trail network linking valley communities and safe motorized access. For info: 250-342-4290.

Friday, February 10th: • 7:30 - 9 p.m.: Valentine’s Couples Yoga at Desiderata studio. For info call Natalie: 250-342-1198.

Saturday, February 11th: • 7 p.m.: Three and Company, a Southern Gospel Trio, performs live at Valley Christian Assembly. For info e-mail: tscrappydo@yahoo.com.

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies versus Kimberley at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Tuesday, February 14th: • 7 p.m.: Cinefest at Pynelogs series presents Potiche at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Featuring Catherine Deneuve and Gerard Depardieu. Doors open at 6 p.m. $10 per person. Tickets for sale at the door. For info: 250-342-4423.

• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.: Options for Sexual Health at Invermere Health Unit. For info: 250-342-2365.

Invermere Library hours: • Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Radium Library hours: • Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m.

• Wednesday and Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m. - 12 noon.

• Sunday: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Canal Flats Community Library hours: • Tuesday: 7- 8:30 p.m.

For info: 250-349-5360.

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Office: (250) 341-6044 • Fax: (250) 341-6046 • www.maxwellrealtyinvermere.ca

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES

Columbia Valley BladeRunner Program

A free 4-week program delivered in partnership with the

Ktunaxa Nation and open to any aboriginal person who quali available.This program is intended for people seeking long-term employment opportunities and provides hands-on workplace training and skill development which may include the following areas: Skill Development:  Goal Setting  Team Building  Resolution  Literacy & Numeracy  Healthy Living  Stress & Time Management  Workplace Expectations  Resume & Job Preparation  What to Wear & Etiquette  First Aid  WHMIS 

 World Host  Food-

Safe  Transportation of Dangerous Goods  Serving It Right For more information, please contact: Morgana Eugene Phone: (250) 489-2464 Email: meugene@ktunaxa.org College of the Rockies Phone: (250) 342-3210

www.cotr.bc.ca/invermere

Pond hockey teams from near and far ready for action

By Joshua Estabrooks Pioneer Staff Whether they’re travelling across town, down the highway, or across international borders, hockey teams looking to compete in this weekend’s BC Eastern Regional Pond Hockey Championships have been arriving with fresh team jerseys and high hopes.

A quick look at the schedule shows that teams have been signing up from all over, including from as far away as Kitimat, and even from south of the border in Spokane, Washington.

Closer to home, Kicking Horse Coffee’s team captain, Chris Wrazej, said his team is ready for action.

“We’ve diligently trained by playing table hockey in the lunch room,” he joked. “We feel pretty prepared, and as long as we have access to emergency transport vehicles near the rink we should be okay.”

The Kicking Horse team is made up of Mr. Wrazej, who is the company’s director of operations, coffee roasters Paul King and Steve Fitch, owner Leo Johnston, employee Steph Botterill and local hockey player Jodi Lawrick.

“You can expect some clever taunts and criticisms from our roasters. That’s why we have them on the

team,” he said.

Further north up the valley, Bighorn Meadows Resort’s team, the Bighorn Bruisers, was put together by Valerie Bracken. Although she is unable to play in the tournament herself, she said her company feels the event is very important for everyone in the valley, so they are more than happy to support it in any way they can. The Bruisers’ roster includes Marlise Stewart, Kevin Antochow, Don Devlin, as well as Fairmont resident Jim Villeneuve and Invermere resident Becky Olsen.

Representing the United States of America, Spokane’s Healthy Scratches will be hitting the ice looking for a good time. Team member John Babcock said that the Scratches are made up of a bunch of friends who have been talking about taking their recreational hockey skills on the road for years.

“We looked your tournament up this year and decided to stop talking about it and actually do it. There’s a bit of pressure representing our country, but we’re here to have fun and we’re not that competitive.”

The Healthy Scratches are made up of John Babcock, Tyson Fay, Brad Carruthers, Andy Buell, Curtis Wibe and Rick Davidson.

Good luck from The Pioneer to all the players!

Call now to book your Valentine’s Day dinner.

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February 3, 2012

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Winter art graces gallery walls

Calling all wood artisans

Submitted by Deanna Berrington This weekend’s B.C. Pond Hockey Championships has valley businesses joining together in a multitude of ways to promote the exciting sporting event.

Invermere’s Artym Gallery has pitched in for the fun with a winter-themed exhibition filling the gallery walls.

As Canadians, our childhoods are filled with winter memories: we remember the fun, the excitement, rosy cheeks flushed and the warmth of hot-chocolate (but always seem to forget the cold!). This collection of paintings will evoke and celebrate these treasured moments.

The major artist for the winter wonderland show will be Katerina Mertikas. A painter out of Ontario, Mertikas is known for her paintings of children frolicking and playing outside.

In what is known as a naïve style, Katerina paints images of childhood; memories of winter nights skating on the pond, pulling toboggans through the wood in search of the perfect hill, and playing a lively game of pond hockey while friends cheer and parents call, unheeded, to come inside.

Her sweet reminisces of children at once remind us of our own childhood, and the childhoods of those close to us; in her paintings we see a son or daughter, a niece, a nephew or our parents and grandparents as they remi-

nisce about the good old days.

The roots of pond hockey are deeply ingrained in the Canadian psyche, so it is no wonder that many artists portray this national pastime. The Artym Gallery is pleased to present a sampling of painters from Eastern and Western Canada, including both French and English artists.

French Canadian artist Jean-Guy Desrosiers has returned to painting his earthy Quebecois scenes, capturing the snow falling over spontaneous hockey games, gabled roofs and charming little churches in rural Quebec.

His charming folksy works will be joined by the renowned painter Pauline Paquin. Her iconic paintings of children can be found across the country, on puzzles, cards, even postage stamps. Paquin’s painting style is both exquisitely charming and highly recognizable.

And from Western Canada come the paintings of Rod Charlesworth, both his whimsical portrayals of children playing hockey and his captivating winter landscapes. The memories of outdoor hockey rinks and our national pastime cross cultural and geographical boundaries easily.

The show opens on Friday, February 3rd at 10 a.m., the same day the B.C. Pond Hockey Championship begins. Between the games, swing by and enjoy this delightful exhibition. The show will remain on the walls until February 13th. You can also view the show online at www.artymgallery.com.

Copper Point nets two more gold awards

By Pioneer Staff Copper Point Resort is celebrating after a double win at the annual Tommie Awards, handed out by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, Central Okanagan Region, on Saturday, January 28th.

The resort and its staff scooped two gold awards, one for excellence in customer service and the second for excellence in a salesperson/team in new home con-

struction. This is the second year in a row the Invermere condominium resort has been recognized at the awards, picking up nine silver nominations last year for its marketing campaign and three golden statues for best logo, individual ad and advertising campaign.

“This is a humbling recognition for our team and I want to thank everyone for their efforts,” said Rohit Gupta, CFO for Rohit Group, Copper Point Resort’s parent company.

There will be a new wood artisan gallery opening in Invermere, early May! We are looking for artists interested in displaying pieces on a commission basis.

Please call Jessie at 250-688-0061 or e-mail crossroadscollective@yahoo.ca to set up your show and tell. www.facebook.com/TheCrossroadsCollective

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 • Fax: (250) 342-2934

SNOW REMOVAL District of Invermere’s Traffic Bylaw requires all property owners to remove snow, ice or rubbish from the sidewalk and footpaths on a road right of way adjacent to the property within 24 hours of the accumulation.

To be a Good Neighbour Here’s how you can help... ❐ Clear snow and ice from sidewalks as soon as possible after a snowfall to ensure that they are safe for all residents. Lend a hand to those who may not be physically able to shovel. ❐ Do not park on the street during a snowstorm or while snow clearing operations are underway. Parked cars make plowing difficult, and sometimes impossible. With your help, winter maintenance crews can plow snow faster and more efficiently and you will reduce the chances of having to dig your car out of a snow drift. ❐ Please make sure that your car is parked within your driveway. Please do not let it extend onto the street or sidewalk. ❐ Keep children safe - don’t let them play in snow piles, or build snow forts in the snow banks at the side of the road. ❐ Snow plows have no place to push the snow except to the curb or shoulder of the road. Sometimes this happens just after you have finished shoveling. We appreciate this can be frustrating; however, we ask your cooperation in clearing this snow without placing it on the roadway. If you hire a private contractor to clear your driveway, make sure the contractor does not push snow into the traveled portion of the roadway, or fill in sidewalks. ❐ Pile snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the road) if possible when shoveling. This helps reduce the amount of snow created by the snowplow at the end of your driveway. ❐ Remove snow from around fire hydrants on or near your property to enable quick access by emergency personnel if the need arises. ❐ Do not place your garbage cans on top of snow banks. If possible place them on your driveway near the edge of the road.

The District thanks you for your cooperation!

Katerina Mertikas Exhibition “Pond Hockey...Winter Memories” Friday-Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 3-5 Continues until Feb. 13th.

“We’ve been practicing” acrylic 16” x 16”

View paintings online at artymgallery.com downtown Invermere • 250-342-7566 info@artymgallery.com

Myth: Change your ads all the time. Readers get tired of the same thing.

Reality: Develop a good campaign, or theme for your ads. Stick with that one campaign, and only make small changes of headlines or details. Call Kathy at 250-341-6299 to find out more.

N E W S PA P E R

8, 1008 8th Ave. Invermere, B.C. Ph: (250) 341-6299 Fax: (250) 341-6229

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • Email: info@cv-pioneer.com

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

YOUR MONEY

Paying down debt versus RRSPs As Canadians move into the 2012 Registered Retirement Savings Plan season, they do so with more personal debt per household than ever before. This has many people asking whether they should contribute to their RRSP this year or use the same money to pay down debt instead. The answer to this dilemma is not always an easy one, but following some simple guidelines can greatly assist with the decision.

Habitual spenders Let’s face it, some people like to spend money. There is nothing wrong with having this personality type, but it can make it harder to save money for retirement.

Some people always seem to have a balance on their credit card or line of credit. Even if they come across some extra money and pay them down, the balances always seem to creep up again. A good strategy for these people is to contribute to their RRSPs and try to forget about the money. By contributing to their RRSPs they can use any tax refund generated to pay down some debt.

If people are honest with themselves and know they tend to use credit to spend, then the approach of paying down debt first and contributing to an RRSP later may take time to develop — saving now may be the best strategy.

Personal income If a person’s personal income was lower than normal in 2011 and they fall into a lower tax bracket than other

years, they may want to focus on paying down debt in 2012 rather than contributing to an RRSP. The reason for this strategy is that they will be saving less tax money by contributing to their RRSP, since you only save as much income tax as your marginal tax rate.

This strategy is particularly effective if it can be reasonably assumed that their income will be higher in 2012.

On the other hand, if a person’s personal income was higher than usual in 2011 and they climb into a higher tax bracket than they would regularly fall into, they may want to focus on an RRSP contribution. This is especially true if the higher income is not expected to continue into 2012. By contributing to an RRSP and reducing those higher tax dollars, it can mean big tax savings that can then be used to pay down debt.

How much debt?

If a person has too much outstanding debt then there may be little use putting money into an RRSP. Those with too much debt may find it difficult to make ends meet during the rest of the year and often end up taking the RRSP contribution right back out again. This just defers income from 2011 to 2012 and RRSP room is lost forever once used.

Those worried about high personal debt levels should focus on paying down those debts and defer saving to the future, when times are better financially in their household.

What type of debt?

Those who have debt that charges lots of interest, such as credit cards, second mortgages or some lines of credit, should consider not contributing to their RRSPs. The reason? There is no assurance that the RRSP contributions will grow as fast as the debt will accrue interest. If the debt is at a very high interest rate, as credit cards often are, it is almost guaranteed that the debt will accrue interest faster than an RRSP account will grow.

Since improving a household’s net worth can be achieved by either paying down debt or saving money, it’s pretty simple to see that letting debt grow faster than savings are growing is not a wise strategy.

If a person has only forms of debt with low interest rate charges then it can be a decent strategy to contribute to an RRSP rather than pay down the debt. Examples of this would be contributing to an RRSP rather than paying down a mortgage or a low interested rate line of credit. But it should be noted that guaranteed investments almost never outperform even lower-interest debts. RRSP investors should be prepared to buy investments that have some risk and volatility in order to grow their RRSP faster than their debt.

Seek advice If you are wondering if you should pay down debt or contribute to an RRSP this year, always be sure to seek the advice of your financial advisor or your accountant.

Investments, Insurance & Financial Planning Brendan Donahue BCOMM, CIM, FCSI

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

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Research

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GIC Rates*

as of January 30th

Cashable 90 day GIC 1 year 2 year 3 year 4 year 5 year

1.35% 1.47% 1.85% 2.10% 2.35% 2.40% 2.75%

*Rates subject to change without notice.

Manulife Securities Incorporated is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency (a licensed life insurance agency and affiliate of Manulife Securities) by Manulife Securities Advisors licensed as life agents. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company is the sole issuer of the Manulife GIF Select insurance contract which offers the IncomePlus benefit and the guarantor of any guarantee provision therein.

Call us for professional, free consultations! • Ph: 250-342-2112 • Fax: 250-342-2113 • 712-10th Street, Invermere

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

February 3, 2012

INVESTMENTS | RETIREMENT PLANNING | INSURANCE

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| | | |

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For more info, please visit our website or look up MFi Funds at www.globefund.com or Matco is registered as a Portfolio Manager, Investment Counselor and Investment Fund Manager.

Paula Cravens paints 1938 hockey team Pioneer Staff Canal Flats based artist, Paula Cravens, has brought an old photograph of female hockey players to life with colourful strokes of paint.

In 2008, Ms. Cravens spotted a Historical Lens photograph in The Pioneer of a women’s hockey team. The historic image inspired her to paint the scene on canvas.

Buoyed by the first painting, Ms. Cravens tracked down valley oldtimer, Doreen Lamond, who provided her with another photo of a different women’s hockey team from 1938.

The women in the painting, entitled ‘Marjorie’s

Team,’ are (left to right): Eileen Docking, Doreen Johnston, Marjorie Saunders, Marjorie Sinclair, Kay Thornton, and Ruth Saunders.

“I thought it was a cool moment. Who knew there were women’s hockey teams in 1938?” Ms. Cravens said.

In light of the February 3rd-5th B.C. Pond Hockey Championships that are happening on Lake Windermere, Ms. Cravens entered the painting (pictured above) into the Centre Ice Art Contest. The contest is being put on by the Columbia Valley Arts Council and the BC Pond Hockey Series, and the winner of the contest, which had not been announced as of press time, will be used in future marketing for the tournament.

BC Government tore up contract A fair contract

700 fewer special needs teachers 12,000 overcrowded classes

Teachers’ pay fallen to 9th in Canada

Invest in schools, teachers and kids

• • • •

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

It’s time for government to invest in schools, teachers and kids again.

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

Woman decides to sell suitcase full of history

By Joshua Estabrooks Pioneer Staff Newspapers have long been the historical record of an area, but for longtime resident, Bobbie Heuscher, her suitcase full of ancient publications speaks of histories around the globe.

The papers, which come from major cities around the world, including Montreal, Toronto, New York, and even London, were uncovered when Ms. Heuscher moved into an old homestead cabin on Barber Island, just north of Wilmer off of Westside Road.

The cabin dates back to a time when paddle wheelers transported people up and down the Columbia River, Ms. Heuscher said. She PAGES IN TIME ­ — Above, lived there in the eighties during a time when Bobbie Heuscher and her suitcase she was “running away from society.” full of old newspapers. Right, one “I asked the owners if I could fix up the of the mastheads indicating the cabin and live there, and I found all of these publication is from 1899. newspapers that they had used for insulation,” she said. blue suitcase and has been packing them around with Recognizing the value in the early publications, some her ever since. dating back to the turn of the century, for their content She used a number of them as decorative wallpaand readability, Ms. Heuscher packed them up in an old per in Bobbies Café, an Athalmer business she opened

A new sound system for your kid’s first car.

and ran in the early eighties, but has kept the bulk of them as well protected as she can.

Reading the old yellowed pages allows Ms. Heuscher to travel back in time, so to speak. She thoroughly enjoys the content and craftsmanship the historic publications contain, she said.

Ms. Heuscher is so protective of the papers, she has physically defended them when people turn the pages too roughly.

“What got me was the amount of work that went into the pages. If you read papers from them days there was news about everything and now there’s news about nothing.

It’s all garbage nowadays.

“I let a lady look at one of the newspapers and she ripped it, so I slapped her. I actually did slap her,” she said.

Reluctantly, but out of a desire to see the papers preserved, Ms. Heuscher has decided to sell her suitcase of newspapers for $1,000.

She hopes that someone comes forward who will decide to protect the publications, and appreciate them as much as she has for almost 30 years.

Call 250-347-0020 for more information.

The box for an extravagant new watch.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

February 3, 2012

Your Local

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

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window fashions Plowing & Sanding Reasonable Rates Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406 Fax: 250-347-9913 E-mail: dwmservices@shaw.ca

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

February 3, 2012

HERE TO SERVE YOU Lake Auto Services

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22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

Woman to lead Rod and Gun Club

By Kate Irwin Pioneer Staff In a historic move, the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club has appointed its first female president.

Barbara König, of Invermere’s König Meat & Sausage Company, will take the helm as the firstBarbara König ever woman to lead the thriving club, which numbers more than 200 members.

As president she will chair the monthly club meetings, work with the club executive to carry out the dayto-day running of the organization, and oversee the work of the committees, which put together the different activities and events the group offers.

“I’m really proud to be the first female president,” said Barb, a Rod and Gun Club member for more than eight years. “Someone approached me two weeks prior to the [annual general] meeting and said ‘I think you’d make a good candidate’ … It’s not an easy job and I’m honoured that the members trust me.”

As the first woman in her native Switzerland to become an electronic mechanic, Barb is no stranger to trailblazing the way for women, but emphasized it hasn’t

been something she’s set out to do deliberately.

Although women have served on the executive during the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club’s 93-year history, there has never previously been a female president, former president Norman Hendricks said.

Since September 2010, the Rod and Gun Club has been without a full executive to lead it, Barb added, but with 13 directors, a treasurer, secretary, vice president and president now in place, the scope of activities the organization is involved with can increase.

“We’re not a small club and we’re definitely involved in a lot of things ... there’s much more than just hunting and fishing,” she said. “There’s the environmental and conservation side, we work with the BC Wildlife Federation ... we fix up campsites, run work bees, help clean up the Hoodoos, have regular shoots, give our input on new hunting and trapping regulations, etc.”

Rod and Gun Club members are keen to see youth participation in archery increase and one new goal the club is working towards is setting up archery programs at local schools, Barb said.

She is also hoping to organize for more speakers to attend the club’s monthly meetings to give talks and presentations, broadening the meetings’ appeal.

The Rod and Gun Club’s first executive meeting is planned for February 9th, where they will set goals for the upcoming 12 months.

To find out more about the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club, visit www.lwdrodgun.com.

. . . ‘Parks Canada pays firm $400,000 to boost brand’ continued from page 3.

In 2009, the federal government implemented a two-year fee freeze at all Parks Canada sites, temporarily eliminating fee increases as a source of income. The fee freeze has since been extended to 2013 for the general public and 2014 for commercial groups.

With fee freezes in place, Veritas, a Torontobased marketing firm, is getting paid $395,000 over two years to dole out advice to the federal agency about how to better promote itself and its natural and historic attractions. The contract was awarded last fall and is in addition to a separate, $50,000 study that was commissioned by parks to identify potential sources of new income.

In Kootenay National Park, the new management plan for the park outlines a target to increase visitor numbers by three per cent over five years.

The park is targeting local visitors, as well as those who drive through the park regularly but may not stop along the way, Mr. Kolesch said.

“One of the best ways we know how to do that is to encourage people to come and give them experiences they will take with them and remember for the rest of their lives, and hopefully become strong supporters and advocates for our national parks.”

The national Parks Canada office did not return multiple phone calls and emails enquiring about the Veritas contract.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

February 3, 2012

Pioneer Classifieds s obituary s Robert Bryant Coggins February 8th, 1945 – January 28th, 2012 It is with great sorrow the family of “Bobby the Locksmith” announces his sudden passing after an illness.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years Karen; his daughters Amber (Steve) of Invermere; Crystal (Chad) of Florida; Misty (Rusty) of Georgia; and seven grandchildren who adored him.

At Bobby’s request, no service will be held.

A memorial tea will be held Saturday, February 4th at the Royal Canadian Legion in Invermere at 1 p.m.

Mrs. Yvette Blake 1922 – 2012

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Yvette Blake. Yvette left us January 25th, 2012 – exactly 6 years to date after her husband John passed. She will be remembered for her grace, class and love she shared and spread with everyone.

Her great looks, stylish ensembles, remarkable culinary skills, and impeccable taste with never be forgotten.

She will forever be loved and missed by son Randy, daughter-in-law Fern, and granddaughters Haley, Naomi and Teal.

Yvette was pre-deceased by her son Kim and her husband John.

To honor her wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Columbia House.

May God rest her soul.

Gordon Allan Larrabee

Phone: 250-341-6299 Fax: 250-341-6229 Email: info@cv-pioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

s In Memoriam s

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

Diane Kebe

Alcoholics Anonymous. Open to all. Regular meetings of the Columbia Valley A.A. are held at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the 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. Call 250-342-2424 for more info.

Saturday, February 11th at 2 p.m. the Edgewater Radium Health Auxiliary Valentine’s Tea & Bake Sale at the Radium Hall. $5.00/ person.

Remembering 1946-1998 She had a special way that warmed the hearts of everyone who knew her, and the qualities that made her the wonderful person she was have left us all with many beautiful memories.

Ed, Jen, Jim, and friends.

ANNOUNCEMENT

A True Lady

• • • •

Windy Café . . .

is now open for lunch from 11:302:30 and Dinner as always from 5:00-9:00pm. Enjoy 10% off all orders.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking?

If so, please join us. Al-Anon meets EVERY Monday in Invermere at 7:15 p.m. at the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church, 712 – 12th Ave (behind the Invermere hospital). For information, please call Carol at 250347-9841.

Legal Notice for claims against the estate of Margaret Kellough, formerly of Radium, who died on the 17th day of December, 2011 are hereby required to send them to the undersigned Executrix. PO Box 162, Radium BC V0A 1M0, before the 29th day of February, 2012 (date must not be less than 21 days from the last publication) after which date the Executor will distribute the said estate among the parties entitled thereto, having regard to the claims of which it has notice. Doreen Persson.

s obituary s Gladys May Ferguson 1912 - 2012 Gladys was born in Marquis, Saskatchewan to Bert and Hattie May Beamish on July 21, 1912 and was the eldest child of a family of eight. In 1936 during the depression, the family moved to Edgewater where Gladys and her husband Fergie were married and farmed for 20 years. In 1957 they moved to Radium Hot Springs where they worked and continued to raise their four children. In 1983 Gladys moved to Invermere where she continued to reside until she passed away at Columbia House in Invermere on January 25, 2012 at 99 1/2 years of age.

Gladys was involved in many community organizations over the years; Order of the Eastern Star, Royal Canadian Legions (Edgewater & Invermere) Radium and Invermere Seniors. She attended the Seniors’ Games several times and competed in floor curling. She loved to travel and took several bus trips, cruises and train trips across Canada, but her favorite trips were to Reno to gamble. She was known for her terrific sense of humor and as a family we often shared “belly” laughs. She enjoyed watching her family participate in sports such as baseball and curling. Gladys liked nothing better than playing bingo or playing cards with her grandchildren and friends.

She is survived by four children: Bev (John) Crozier, Terry (Doris) Ferguson, Jackie (Mel) Thesen and Thora (Mel) Casey; nine grandchildren: Troy (Gail) Ferguson, Kari Benum, Scott Boker, Mike Boker, Adrian (Kim) Casey, Tasha Casey, Ricky (Terah) Thesen, Randy (Bre) Thesen, Sean (Stephanie) Crozier; 12 great grandchildren: Lexi, Aric, Corbin, Jeremy, Courtenay, Chance, Rayden, Alaynah, Dade, Kai, Lauren, and Ryan;

June 1 , 1937 – January 23 , 2012 st

rd

Gordon passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his much loved wife and three children. He fought very hard until the end, stayed positive, thought of others constantly and always reminded everyone of how blessed his life had been.

He was a man devoted to his family. Throughout his life he has been many things: a husband, a father, a family man, a local born prospector, a sawyer, a friend, a mentor, a debater and a member of a local pioneer family.

He leaves us with a peaceful mind, comforted by his “living legacy” of three children and their spouses, eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and his loving wife. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

1 great, great grandson: Hayden; two sisters: Carrie Johnson and Yvonne (Allen) Ramage as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Gordon Ferguson, granddaughter Kym Boker, her parents, three brothers and two sisters.

A celebration of Gladys’ life will be held at Christ Church Trinity on May 5, 2012 at 2:00 pm. Her Interment will be in the Edgewater Cemetery. Memorial Donations in her memory can be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, PO Box 12013 Stn BRM B, Toronto, Ontario, M7Y 2L3, or the Salvation Army, 533 Slater Road NW, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 4Y5.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

Cheers & Jeers

Cheers & Jeers

Cheers & Jeers

COMMERCIAL SPACE

suite for rent

suite for rent

Cheers to Melody at the Invermere Post Office for going above and beyond to get my parcel. D.F.

Cheers to Bonnie and Lee at Peacock Embroidery for great friendly service and my red hoodie.

Dodge.

Cheers to Valley Alley for generously donating your facility to help fund my mission’s trip.

Rent/Sell: approx. 2,400 sq. ft. between Home Renovation Center & Fitz Flooring. For more information please call Lorne @ 250-270-0102.

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Bright, 2-bdrm basement suite with separate entrance in Wilder subdivision. N/S. $850/month utilities and cable included + D.D. 403-819-8121.

Jeers to the deer on 15th Ave. who stalked my 4-year-old niece and attacked my dog in my own yard.

Cheers to the wonderful staff at Columbia House. Your kindness and support will be forever remembered and appreciated.

Thank You! Jeers to the RCMP for letting the gang violence continue in Invermere.

Cheers to the Radium Video staff for staying open so late so my boyfriend and I could rent a video.

Cheers to the DOI Council for at least trying to work towards a solution to the deer problem by going ahead with the cull.

Jeers to the young workers of Invermere/Panorama who feel that the hospitality industry makes good wages and that you don’t need to tip. If you can’t afford to tip don’t eat out.

Jeers to those individuals who continue to use the Wilmer wetlands as their personal dumping grounds. This weekend we came upon a newly stacked mound of 20+ tires, right by the water, where migrating birds feed and close to sensitive nesting areas.

You went to a lot of trouble doing that — too bad you didn’t go further south to the real regional dump. And to those who dump engine blocks, household garbage and old oil cans around Wilmer, Jeers to you too.

Cheers to our local B.C. Service Office for going above and beyond the call of duty. I so appreciate our help. Thanks again.

Jeers to those who think the deer cull is cruel and unnecessary.

Clearly you have no idea how many accidents they cause and nearly cause on the roads. Jeers also to those comparing the cull to the Holocaust. You are showing yourselves to be thoroughly fatuous and uneducated.

Jeers to people who are complaining about the deer cull.

There was a survey sent around for locals to decide how to deal with our deer over-population. Now you speak up? Majority rules.

Cheers to Jason and Alita Bentley for submitting the well-put letter in last week’s paper re: the culling of deer. You are bang on!

Cheers to the Rockies and the Columbia Basin Alliance for their literacy program. For the past few years the Rockies have never been much to respect or admire.

Hopefully this involvement in the community is only the first stepping-stone to more.

Jeers to the person who jeered the local businesses for hiring foreign people rather than locals. Those businesses are simply looking for QUALIFIED staff. I sincerely hope that no foreigners were offended by this. We are happy to have you here. Foreigners bring tourism and culture to Invermere and we need it! Think about what you said! You should be ashamed of yourself for making people feel unwelcome in our valley.

Cheers to mayor and council for making a tough decision.

Something needs to be done before people get hurt. We need to feel safe letting our kids walk home from school and while walking our pets. Thank you for taking the flack that you have had to face.

Jeers to the drivers in town who think stop signs are optional.

Maybe take a minute to read over your driver’s manual before you run the next stop sign and someone gets hurt. Slowing down and rolling through stop signs doesn’t cut it.

Cheers to AG Foods for always taking the time to turn on the dancing Santa for the Sonshine children every time we come in (and for the cookies too).

Cheers to Angela Klein for being my fundraising angel. Cheers also for your generosity; you’re greatly appreciated.

Cheers to the West Side Ladies for remembering my birthday. From the East Side Ladies.

Jeers to the same angry woman.

I’m tired of listening to you talking about people and your neighbors in a cruel way. You are only hurting yourself. Most people are aware now after decades of rage and making war to stay away from the negative energy you display. You are so sad, miserable and suffering.

Life’s too short. How hard is it to share acts of love, thoughtfulness and caring? Put a smile on your face and leave others alone! All behavior unlike LOVE is motivated by our fear of punishment based upon our inaccurate belief in our guilt.

storage NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climate Controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

STORAGE SPACE – assorted sizes, easy access, immediate availability, long-term or short-term. Deck Properties Warehouse, Industrial Park, 250-342-3166.

You own it, we can store it! Secure, fenced compounds any size up to one acre. Secure containers available. Would also build building to suit for long-term tenant.

Zoned heavy industrial. Invermere Industrial Park. Phone 250-3425297, 250-346-3011 or 250-3422100.

864 sq. ft. Warehouse space with loading dock. Unheated, $625/ month. Available immediately. Call 250-342-3637.

For Lease: approximately 2,800 sq. ft. Across from Invermere Post Office. Contact Gordon at 250-3429271.

Office space with great highway exposure for rent between Invermere and Windermere. Call Peter 250-342-1073.

SHARED ACCOMMODATION Room for rent in Radium. Call 250688-0080.

Share with one other, in large 3-bdrm house on the lake in Invermere. Furnished, own bath, all appliances. $500/month, cable, Internet and utilities included. 250342-1791.

Private room with cable, phone, laundry access, Internet, and all utilities included, $400/month + $200 DD, N/P, 250-342-4020.

Furnished room for rent to be shared with one other female.

Great lake and mountain views at Kinsmen Beach. $400/per person or $500/for couple per month. Call or text 250-581-1260.

suite for rent

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Invermere: large, bright, 2-bdrm basement suite with separate entrance. Appliances shared, W/D, central location, 2 blocks to D/T, school and hospital. 3 blocks to groceries and beach. Pets OK, N/S, available now. $625/month + utilities. Call Grant: 403-493-1245.

For lease: approx 3,000 sq. ft. 5037th Ave below Gone Hollywood and Valley Spas – beside Back Door Wine Cellar. Overhead door/heated. $5.00/per sq. ft. triple net. Call 250342-0603 or 250-341-5845.

2-bdrm apartments, D/T Invermere.

Clean, quiet units, parking, walk to everything. Start at $775/month, N/S, references required, D/W, W/D hookups. Call Dennis, 250-3426912.

Radium: Bachelor – 1-bdrm – 2-bdrm fully-furnished units.

1-3 bdrm unfurnished apt. Rent includes heat, hydro, cable, and parking. DD required. N/S, pets possible. Call Joan at 250-3427517 for more information and availability.

Beautiful 1,200 sq. ft. luxury apartment: 2 bdrms, 2 baths, 5 appliances. Must be seen. N/S, N/P. $1,200/month + hydro. References required. Available immediately.

E-mail panacheinteriors@telus.net or 250-342-5805.

Invermere: huge, bright 2-bdrm main floor suite, with extra-large fenced yard. Nice wood burning stove. All appliances (shared W/D). Central location 2 blocks to D/T, schools, hospital. 3 blocks to grocery store and beach. Pets OK, N/S, available immediately. $850/ month + utilities. Call Grant 403493-1245.

Brand-new large, bright, 2-bdrm basement suite in D/T Invermere.

Private entrance and enclosed patio, all new appliances, N/S, $800/month + utilities. Available immediately. Call 403-874-0483.

1-bdrm apartment in 12-unit building in D/T Invermere. Parking, easy walk to D/T, amenities, no stairs, on-site laundromat. $579/ month + hydro, N/S, references required. Please call Sharon 250688-1365.

Windermere home with 2 separate suites, each with 2 bdrm and 1 bath. Private entrances, upstairs renovated, parking and laundry. $850/month including hydro.

Call Ben, Green Door Property management at 250-688-0362. For more info & photos see Kijiji.ca Ad ID 347605135 and 348596019.

Radium: brand-new, furnished lower level suite for rent. 2-bdrm, 2-bath, lots of windows, bright and clean. Available immediately, N/S, N/P. $750/month + utilities. 250342-3790.

Fully-furnished, 1-bdrm basement suite in Invermere close to all amenities. $600/month utilities included. N/S, N/P. Wood heat is provided. Available February 1st.

Call 250-342-3832.

1-bdrm suite for rent in Castlerock, Invermere. N/S, N/P. Available immediately. $700/month utilities included. Call 250-342-1314.

Invermere: 2-bdrm suite includes free cable, wireless Internet, W/D, fridge and stove. Bright, clean, laminate floors and tile, separate entrance and lots of parking. $750/ month utilities included for 1 person or $800/month for 2 people.

Call or text 250-342-1010.

2-bdrm, 1-bath renovated suite in Edgewater with laundry. $600/ month heat included. Available immediately. N/S. 250-342-2898.

3-bdrm upper suite in Radium.

Newly renovated, deck, fenced yard, all appliances, N/S. $900/ month + utilities negotiable with 1 year lease. 250-342-5129.

Suite available immediately in Fairmont. 2-bdrm walkout basement suite includes utilities, satellite TV, Internet, and W/D. Private yard backing onto Crown land on Columbia River. 1-3 person(s), $950 - $1,150/month.

Call 250-345-6226 and leave contact info.

New 2-bdrm suite in builder showhome with lots of light. Yard and garden space available + garage. New appliances, references required, W/D, N/S, N/P. $900/ month hydro included. E-mail dlherbs@telus.net or call 250-3423381.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

February 3, 2012

suite for rent Low, low rates daily, weekly and monthly at the Motel Bavaria in Radium Hot Springs. Call 250-3479915.

Homes for rent

FOR RENT

INVERMERE: Lake Windermere Pointe starting at $1,100 per/month. Pool, underground parking, elevator and much more.

WESTSIDE PARK: 2 homes available at $1,400 per/month plus utilities.

WILDER SUBDIVISION: 2 bdrm. basement suite, furnished at $1,250 per/month including utilities.

WINDERMERE: Furnished 2 bdrm. cottage. Nice yard! $900/month plus utilities. Available immediately.

RADIUM: 4 bdrm. home, unfurnished long-term, no pets or smoking at $1,350/month plus utilities.

CANAL FLATS: Newer 2 bdrm. furnished townhome $850/month plus utilities.

Contact Dave or Eric

250-342-4040

www.FirstChoiceRentals.ca

3-bdrm, 1-bath home for rent in D/T Invermere with nice yard.

N/S, N/P. Available immediately. $1,350/month + utilities. Call 250341-1182.

For the latest rentals available please visit jennyb.ca.

Jenny Bueckert - Maxwell Realty, Invermere info@jennyb.ca or call 250-342-5711 Townhouse for rent at Cedarwood Glen Estates. 3-bdrm, 1.5-bath, garage. $1,200/month + utilities.

N/S, N/P. Available immediately.

250-341-1182.

Edgewater: 6-bdrm, 4 full baths, 2 full kitchens, 2 living rooms, on 3-acre lot. Includes 10 appliances. $950/month + utilities. Available immediately. 403-650-8654.

Unique 5 star accommodation.

3-bdrm home 10 minutes south of Fairmont. 3 years old, 1,817 sq. ft.

Semi-detached, hardwood floors, granite counter tops, 5 appliances, garage, carport, geothermal heating, low utilities, A/C, beach house, BBQ and fireplace. $1,500/ month + utilities. Call 780-4463575.

Homes for rent Edgewater: Fully renovated 3-bdrm, 1-bath with partial basement and 2 small decks.

Includes 7 appliances. Large yard with lots of room for parking and storage (in-door and out). Well-behaved dogs welcome (large and small). $995/month + hydro and references required.

Call 250-409-9130 for more information.

Invermere: 5-bdrm, 4-bath, 4,000 sq. ft., all appliances, A/C, double garage, 2 decks, view of lake, walking distance to school and town, N/S. $1,800/month + utilities. Available immediately.

Call 403-609-0870 or kijiji Ad ID 327074730.

2,100 sq. ft. home in RVVR. 3-bdrm, 2-bath, furnished, available immediately. $1,250/ month + utilities + $1,250 D.D. All Club House privileges included.

Contact Ray 403-478-9773 or email rammac4562@hotmail.ca.

Fairmont: newer 1,600 sq. ft.

3-bdrm, 2-bath house. Large lot near river. All appliances included. $1,150/month. Call Mark 403-5190252.

3-bdrm house for rent in Wilder subdivision, close to the beach, school & D/T. Attached garage, N/P, N/S. Available immediately. $1,100/month + utilities. 250342-2052.

Invermere: 3-bdrm semi-detached.

Close to all schools and D/T. Available now! Pets negotiable. $850/month + utilities. Call Joan at 250-342-7517 for viewing.

Large, clean, unfurnished cabin in Fairmont on treed lot. 3 bdrms, 2 renovated baths, great deck $1,100/month. Call Ben Green, Green Door Property Management at 250-688-0362. Kijiji.ca AD ID 350406984.

1-bdrm + office on acreage near Edgewater. Pets and pasture for horses may be considered. W/D, N/S. $750/month hydro included.

Email dlherbs@telus.net or call 250-342-3381.

condo for rent

condo for rent

Hillcrest Apartments have 2-bdrms for $800/month, 1-bdrms for $600/ month. Fully furnished, including utilities, TV and Internet. 250-3411182.

2-bdrm, 2-bath at The Peaks in Radium on the second floor. End unit, underground parking. W/D. $880/month including all utilities.

403-801-4356.

Invermere: newer 2-bdrm, 1.5bath town home, 5 minute drive to downtown. Garage, storage, clean, unfurnished. $895/month + utilities. Call Ben Green, Green Door Property Management at 250-6880362. Kijiji.ca Ad ID 348595133.

1-bdrm + den condo in Radium. $695/month (6-12 month lease) Utilities, Internet and W/D included. Furnished optional.

Available March 1st. Call 250-3418456 or anni166@hotmail.com.

1-bdrm luxury condo for long-term rent in Sable Ridge Resort, Radium.

Fully furnished and stocked with amenities. Just move in! Furnished with penthouse furnishings, gourmet kitchen, ensuite laundry, queen bed, flat screen TV, 3rd floor, fireplace, BBQ, underground parking, outdoor hot tubs, clubhouse, seasonal pool. Longterm rental start Feb. 1st or March 1st. $795/month including utilities.

Call Joe 403-830-0799.

Cottage for rent on Lake Windermere, BC. We are looking to rent our fully furnished 4-bdrm, 2-bath cottage for either the high season of May – Oct. (minimum 3 month rental) or for a lease of one or more years. Home comes complete with dining area, living room, den/ TV room, laundry room and one car garage. One dog negotiable, no cats. Cottage is located in a gated community close to Windermere, tennis courts, residents’ beach and children’s playground. Enjoy magnificent mountain views in a private setting and walk to the lake in 2 minutes time. W/D, all linens, cutlery, furniture, 2 fireplaces. Lots of parking. Rent is very reasonable but rate depends whether it’s an annual lease or high season, so please email or call peandse@ gmail.com or 403-266-4555.

2-bdrm, 2-bath condo 2 minutes walk to beach. N/S, N/P. $1,000/ month. Call 778-212-5366 or 250546-4894.

Spacious condo for rent in CastleRock Estates, Invermere.

Double garage, hardwood, granite, stainless steel appliances, washer/dryer. N/S, N/P $1,200/ month utilities included. Available immediately. Call 250-342-1314.

2-bdrm and full bath upstairs, with large kitchen, patio with BBQ, living room and ½-bath on main. Single garage and spare/ laundry room on ground floor. Fully equipped kitchen, 1-bdrm fully furnished. Some comfortable other furnishings available. Exceptional views. Just painted and completed.

Cleaned. Located at the crossroads to Invermere on Hwy 93/95.

N/S. $1,000/month. Available immediately: 250-342-1475.

Homes for Sale

Mountain Home For Sale www.newbuildinglinks.com

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE

Homes for Sale Exceptional park-like in-town acreage with country style executive home for sale. Call 250688-1508.

Affordable 2002 Moduline, 1400 sq. ft., 3-bdrm, 2-bath in quiet Radium Hot Springs. Vaulted ceilings, drywalled, energy efficient, 2 covered decks. Workshop wired 110/220, storage shed. $144,900 O.B.O. Call 250-347-6909. View on Kijiji ID 348389209.

Homes for Sale Price reduction! Central Radium, close to golf course.

Fully renovated, 6-bdrm home – like new! Stunning kitchen and suite potential.

For full details visit www. propertyguys.com ID#266165.

Asking $475,500. Call 250-3479399.

Quaint 1,100 sq. ft. home for sale in Edgewater. Close to elementary school & river. Large 80 ft. x 200 ft. lot with mature trees.

Excellent access with both side and back alleys. Fully renovated & new electrical. For full details and pictures visit www.propertyguys. com ID#266210. 250-409-9130.

business opportunity Anglz Hair Studio is a full service hair salon that has been in business for over 17 years. Turnkey operations that include all hair services, full retail area, 4 stations, tanning room with tanning bed, manicures, pedicures, waxing, laundry/washroom.

Asking $42,500. Serious inquiries only. Call Maria at 250-342-3227.

condo for Sale Ski to your door, fully furnished 1-bdrm condo, F/P, deck, heated parking, swimming pool and hot tubs. Tamarack Lodge, Panorama, BC. $115,000 firm. Call 250-3426858 after 6 p.m.

wanted Single, professional person seeking 2-4 bdrm home in Invermere for L/T rental. Preferably D/T. Double garage or better with large yard.

Needed immediately. Call 250342-1167.

Misc. for sale

The Wait is Over…

Copper Point Resort in Invermere, British Columbia is now ready to sell off its leftover unused construction material.

Garage Sale for construction materials will be held at the resort in the underground parking area, Saturday March 3, 2012, 9 am- 4 pm.

Cash only, items must be taken upon sale.

Large 10 ft. x 40 ft. sea-cans are available for viewing and purchase now!

There are 10 sea-cans to be sold. Sea-cans must be bought as a whole and items are not sold separately. Appointments will be set up for viewing.

Rohit Communities 2010 & 2011 Edmonton Builder of the Year www.COPPERPOINT.ca

Please e-mail all inquiries to darren.still@rohitgroup.com

www.rohitcommunities.com

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

wanted

services

services

services

help wanted

If anyone has any old houseplants they no longer want, please contact Dustin Penner: 250-270-0370.

Phil’s Carpentry. Everything from roofs to decks, completion of basement and bathrooms. Phone 250-341-8033 (cell) – 24/7. Not on valley time.

Renew & Restore Professional tile and grout cleaning, re-grouting, repair and sealing of tile, grout, slate, and stone. Commercial and residential. 35 years experience.

New installations also available.

250-341-5645 refreshtile@yahoo.ca.

Columbia Valley Handy Help!

“30 years experience in rental property management and maintenance “ Services available: small handyman projects, repairs and maintenance, snow shoveling, bookkeeping.

Internet and computer skills assistance, cleaning, painting, lawn mowing, gardening, house watch, elder assistance, errands, dog walking and pet care, yard cleanup, local delivery, temporary help. No job too small. Very reasonable fees or by donation. 20% of proceeds donated to a local charity of your choice. Phone John at 250-347-9877 (Cell: 250-342-1585) for info.

Akiskinook Resort is now accepting applications for strata maintenance personnel. This is a F/T position with flexible hours during slower periods. The successful candidate must be available to work weekends and have a valid Class 5 driver’s license. Duties include the maintenance of all grounds, roads, parking, tennis courts, recreation centre, play area, bench, and marina. We are looking for an individual with strong interpersonal, communication, and problem solving skills; a high level of attention to detail; the ability to work independently; and the ability to maintain hand tools, gas powered tools and equipment.

Working knowledge of WCB Work Safe Procedures is an asset but not required; Pool Operator certificate Level 1 is an asset but not required.

Resumes can be submitted by email to stratn21@telus.net or by fax to 250-342-0122.

misc. For Sale Hot tub rentals — week or weekend rates. Valley Spas: 250342-3922.

Support Rockies Hockey! Pine, Fir, dry and split. To order call 250342-6908.

Top quality Hay and Straw, alfalfa/grass round bales. Call Elkhorn Ranch. 250-342-0617.

Dry larch split or delivered. $300/ per cord. 250-349-5414.

Cork (Earth 12” x 36”) 284.76 sq. ft., $2.50/per sq. ft. Call 250-342-3216.

Maple computer desk in excellent condition with chair. 26”x57”. $175.

Call 250-345-0065.

vehicles for sale 1997 GMC Yukon SLT. Low km, black leather, remote start, lady driven. $3,000. Call 250-688-1229.

2001 S10, 4.3 L, V6, 146,000 km, ext. cab, lined box, roll top, remote starter. $2,750. Call 250-342-3353.

services Dryer vent and furnace cleaning & inspections. Call AQUAIR today!

250-342-5089.

Vacuums Parts, repairs and accessories All makes and models Central Vacuums – sales and installations Bonded & licensed Fine Homeservices 250-342-9207, fhs@telus.net Water treatment and purification, includes drinking water systems, softeners & conditioners, iron filters. Call AQUAIR, 250-342-5089.

Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning.

Environmentally friendly products.

Dry in 1 hour! Call 250-688-0213 or visit www.heavensbest.ca.

Save $50 off your next order “I told a friend on the phone today, who is in the market for new window coverings, to call Shannon’s Blinds. I couldn’t say enough about the wonderful service, knowledgeable staff and excellent prices. I love my blinds!

Happy New Year!“ Noreen Ruault Shannon’s Blinds & Designs 250-342-5749 shannonsblinds@yahoo.ca “Covering the Valley – One Window At A Time” Expires: February 10, 2012

Tile & Slate Installs Journeyman tile setter. 30+ years experience. Custom steam rooms, showers, floors, and cultured stone.

All work guaranteed.

Competitive rates.

Call 250-341-5645.

LBO Autobody Your Fender Bender Mender & The Valley Shine Shop Keep your vehicle free of salt & road grime. Have it detailed. Basic – deluxe packages available. Drop in for a free estimate on paint and body work at #35 109 Industrial Rd #2, 250-342-9696.

Flooring installations, lino, carpet, laminate and hardwood. 30 years experience. Call 250-347-9192 or 250-341-1235.

Invermere Sharpening Carbide and steel sharpening services. Carbide saw re-tipping, saw blades, router bits, planer knives, hole saws, ice auger blades, knives, scissors and much more.

250-341-5447. 345 Blair St., Athalmer.

JOB FAIR

Can’t wait to see you @ 91 Sheep.

Check out the deals and follow us on Twitter.

help wanted F/T or P/T heavy duty mechanic.

Class 1 with air an asset but not necessary. Heavy equipment experience an asset but not necessary. Fax 250-341-6006.

Class 1 truck driver, must be experienced with clean driver’s abstract. Fax 250-341-6006.

We are seeking: golf sales associates, reservation specialists, guest service attendants, turf crew, beverage cart attendants. Wages and start dates depending on position. Resumes can be emailed to careers@eagleranchresort.com.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Tuesday, February 7, 2012 9:00am to 11:00am at The Lodge 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the Ski Area Chalet

It’s never too early to think about your summer job. Are you reliable and service-oriented? Even if you are a high school student, we want to speak to you. We will be taking applications and conducting interviews for our spring and summer 2012 season on Tuesday, February 7, 2012. Positions available include

• • • • • • • •

Greenskeepers Night Waterers Golf Shop Attendants Golf Guest Services Player Assistants Beverage Cart Attendants Grounds Maintenance Room Attendants

• • • • • •

RV Park Attendants Laundry Attendants Housepersons Lodge and Golf Clubhouses Base Camp Attendants Guest Services Agents Kids Adventure Camp Coordinator

• • • • • • • •

Servers Hostesses Cooks Food & Beverage Supervisors Dishwashers Sous Chef Baristas Lifeguards

Resumes may be sent in advance to David Sheedy: hr@fhsr.com, fax 250.345.6616. Or, simply bring it along with you.

help wanted

We have the following positions available.

Two temporary, full-time positions available at the Radium Hot Springs Visitor Information Centre for the 2012 summer season as a

Visitor Information Counsellor Employer will provide the mandatory Tourism/Visitor Information Counsellor Program.

Please drop resume off in person to 7556 Main St. East Radium Hot Springs.

For more information, please call 250-347-9331.

Birchwood Restaurant F/T Sous Chef Duties include menu planning and preparation, including daily features. Leadership in kitchen team. Several years experience in upscale dining and/or relevant trade certification required. Wage $2,500/month. Drop off resumes to 722-13th Street Invermere or email birchwoodinv@gmail.com.

RADIUM, BC

Tourism Radium Hot Springs is looking for student employees to help during the busy spring and summer season.

Must be going back to school to qualify for the positions.

Please call 250-341-6299 to place your classified ad.

Are you an energetic leader?

We have positions available for you.

We are a popular restaurant with an extremely busy summer season, and an easygoing winter season.

CHEF/KITCHEN MANAGER This is a hands-on supervisory position and you will have to cook.

• must have 2 years supervisory experience • able to supervise all kitchen staff.

• ensure proper quality, handling, portioning and prep of all food items • ensure all health, safety and sanitation rules.

• able to build a team to deliver excellence

FRONT END SUPERVISOR/SERVER This is a hands-on job and you will be required to serve.

• must have 2 years supervisory experience • opening and closing duties • training front-end staff, handle complaints and supervise • build a team to deliver excellence Send resumes to robertsatbcj@hotmail.com or mail to Box 505, Radium Hot Springs, B.C.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

February 3, 2012

Valley Churches

FAITH

A moment of epiphany

By Rev. Fraser Coltman, St. Peter’s Lutheran Mission of Invermere When some speak of having a moment of epiphany, usually they refer to an experience of discovery, often unexpected — like the cartoon pictures of a lightbulb flashing on above a person’s head.

Epiphanies are “ah-ha!” moments when we understand something once hidden from us. Epiphany is also used by many Christians to name the time following the season of Christmas.

During Epiphany, we celebrate God’s determination to be known by us. God wants all of us to know who He is. In a sermon preached in the city of Athens two thousand years ago, a Christian missionary named Paul said about God, “This Master of sky and land doesn’t live in custom-made shrines or need the human race to run errands for him, as if he couldn’t take care of himself. He makes the creatures; the creatures don’t make him.

“Starting from scratch, he made the entire human race and made the earth hospitable, with plenty of time and space for living so we could seek after God, and not just grope around in the dark, but actually find him. He doesn’t play hide-and-seek with us. He’s

not remote; he’s near.” (Acts 17) While Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, Epiphany is the season focused on Jesus; who He is and why He was born.

Jesus is the son of Mary and the Son of God — true man and true God. Jesus chose to become a human being to give God “a human face”, so that we might know God for who He truly is.

Despite the fact that most of us sense that God exists, we do not really have a clear picture of Him. The history of religion is the confusing story of man’s futile attempts to know God through his own reason. The story of Jesus is the good news that God has cut through our confusion to reveal Himself to us.

In the New Testament gospel stories of Jesus, we catch glimpses of Jesus at work and we see that He is unique. He spoke of God in ways that made Him real and approachable to people who thought they could never be near to Him. He acted in ways that made God’s love tangible: healing sick people and befriending outcasts. Through Jesus, God reached out to show that He really cared for people and invited them to trust Him. Epiphany means “to shine upon,” and we Christians rejoice that God shone upon us by sending us His Son. As we hear the stories of Jesus’ truth-filled teachings and life-giving miracles, God shines His loving light upon us. He is not playing hide-and-seek with us. He is not remote; He’s near, and He wants us to know Him. Come join us in seeking God through Jesus. May a true epiphanic experience be yours!

He shoots, he scores!

While David Thompson Secondary School students and Doug Clovechok look on, Columbia Valley RCMP Staff Sergeant Marko Shehovac takes aim at the net during a hallway hockey shootout competition between students, staff and the RCMP at the College of the Rockies in Invermere. The competition was in the spirit of the upcoming B.C. Eastern Pond Hockey Championships to be held February 3rd-5th on Lake Windermere.

Photo by Joshua Estabrooks

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, February 5th, 10:30 a.m.: Worship and Life Instruction, “The Journey: Look...I am walking!” Pastor Trevor ministering.

“K.I.D.S” Church, for children age 3 to Grade 1; and Grade 2 to Grade 5 during the morning service.

Pastor Trevor Hagan • 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org Windermere Valley Shared Ministry ANGLICAN-UNITED 9 a.m.: Anglican Eucharist at All Saint’s, Edgewater.

10:30 a.m.: Anglican Eucharist at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Interim Priest In Charge, Katherine Hough 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com Valley Christian Assembly Sunday, 10 a.m.: Worship and Word Kids’ Church provided.

Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway 93/95, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com Roman Catholic Church Saturday: 4:30 p.m. at St.Anthony’s, Canal Flats. Father John Kellogg Saturday: 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 James 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 Fraser Coltman • 1-866-426-7564 Radium Christian Fellowship Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service Thursday 7 p.m. Fun Night 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, Sunday, 10 a.m. • Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Barry Pratt • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-341-5792

• Books • Music • Stationery • Children • Educational

INVERMERE CHRISTIAN SUPPLIES

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

WHAT GOES INTO the MIND TM COMES OUT in a LIFE

You can remember someone special with your gift to the Canadian 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

Let’s Make Cancer History

www.cancer.ca

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

February 3, 2012

Regional District of East Kootenay It’s town Hall MEEtIng tIME!

Box 159, 8853 Grainger Rd., Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0 Phone: 250-349-5462 • Fax: 250-349-5460 • village@canalflats.ca

REQUEST FOR ENGINEERING PROPOSALS FOR EAGLE’S NEST WATER SYSTEM UPGRADES The Village of Canal Flats invites proposals and a statement of qualifications from interested consultants with knowledge and/or experience in POTABLE WATER TREATMENT AND WATER SYSTEM UPGRADES for the preliminary design and construction cost estimation for a water treatment system for approximately 62 single family residents, the replacement of an existing potable water reservoir and the related connections to the existing distribution system for the Eagle’s Nest water system, now owned and operated by the Village of Canal Flats.

Proposal Documents can be obtained from: 1. www.canalflats.com/ under “Employment and Bids” 2. www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca under “Village of Canal Flats” 3. Pick up at the Village of Canal Flats Municipal Office located at 8853 Grainger Road, Canal Flats, British Columbia.

You are invited to the 2012 Town Hall Meetings. The agenda will be different at each meeting, but we’ll be discussing everything from agriculture to taxes.

Please join us for an evening of information and conversation.

AREA F: February 23

7pm

Windermere Community Hall

Topics: Director’s Report, Agricultural Plan, Lake Windermere Management Implementation, Columbia Valley Secondary Suites, Five Year Financial Plan, Conservation Fund Project Profile, Windermere Fire Update

AREA G: February 16

7pm

Edgewater Community Hall

Topics: Director’s Report, Agricultural Plan, Water Conservation, Columbia Valley Secondary Suites, Five Year Financial Plan, Conservation Fund Project Profile, Edgewater Fire Update

Quotations will be received at the Village of Canal Flats municipal office addressed to Brian Woodward, CAO, at PO Box 159, Canal Flats, BC, V0B 1B0, NO LATER THAN 2:00pm local time, Monday February 13, 2012.

VolUntEER oPPoRtUnItY

The Village of Canal Flats reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to accept the proposal deemed most favourable to the interests of the Village of Canal Flats.

The RDEK is soliciting interest from members of the public to represent the Columbia Valley Subregion on the RDEK’s Board of Variance.

The preferred candidate will have experience in land use planning, land development or the construction industry and be willing to occasionally travel to Cranbrook to attend meetings.

The Board of Variance is a decision-making body that considers minor variances to bylaws to relieve hardship or extend nonconforming uses. The operation of the Board is governed by the Local Government Act and RDEK bylaws. The Board is composed of three members, one from each RDEK subregion. There is presently a vacancy for the Columbia Valley position.

The Board meets about once per year to consider applications. There is no compensation for sitting on the Board or attending meetings, other than for travel expenses.

For inquiries, please contact Brian Woodward, CAO, Village of Canal Flats at 250-349-5462 or by email at bwoodward@canalflats.ca

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE 914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Tel: (250) 342-9281 • Fax: (250) 342-2934

WINTER REMINDER The District of Invermere would like to remind everyone to take extra care while travelling during the winter season.

The District of Invermere strives to maintain municipal streets and sidewalks in as safe as possible condition. During the winter season however, Snow & Ice Control services are not intended to eliminate all hazardous conditions on District streets or sidewalks at all times.

They are intended to assist vehicles and pedestrians that are properly equipped for winter travelling.

It is expected that under normal winter conditions, there will be situations when the immediate demand for Snow & Ice Control services will exceed the available resources. In order to maximize the benefits of operations, Snow & Ice Control staff shall conduct operations according to the priorities determined by emergency requirements and traffic volumes listed in the Snow and Ice Control policy.

Snow and Ice Control Operations will be available on a 24 hour a day basis, 7 days a week during the winter season.

Residential and commercial driveway entrances and sidewalks are the responsibility of the owner to be cleared of windrowed snow and ice to the degree that the mobility of vehicular and pedestrian traffic shall not be compromised.

RDEK Board of Variance

If you are interested in applying for the position please submit a letter indicating your experience by February 24th 2012 to: Andrew McLeod, Manager Regional District of East Kootenay 19 – 24 Avenue South Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 or amcleod@rdek.bc.ca For further information contact Andrew McLeod, Manager of Planning & Development Services at 250-489-2791, toll-free at 1-888-478-7335 (RDEK) or amcleod@rdek.bc.ca.

attEntIon Dog ownERs - In aREas F anD g

It is a requirement under the RDEK Dog Control Bylaw that you must have your dog licenced.

2012 Dog Licence Costs Spayed or Neutered Unspayed or Unneutered Pit Bull Terriers or Cross Breeds (includes Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier)

$10.00 $30.00 $1,000.00

Proof of spaying/neutering is required - either by bringing in your old licence for renewals or by providing a letter from a veterinarian for new licences. Dog Control is actively enforced in Electoral Areas F and G. For more information or to obtain a 2012 licence for your dog, please contact the Columbia Valley RDEK office or Dog Control Officer Sam Fiddler at 250-347-9793.

We remind all residents that it is unlawful to pile, throw or shovel snow onto District roads or rights of ways when clearing snow.

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

REGIONAL DISTRICT OF EAST KOOTENAY 19 - 24 Avenue South Cranbrook BC V1C 3H8 Phone: 250-489-2791 Toll Free: 1-888-478-7335 Email: info@rdek.bc.ca Website: www.rdek.bc.ca