vol10issue2

January 11, 2013 Vol. 10/Issue 2

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 January 11, 2013

P ioneer

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

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wonderful whiteswan Hundreds of anglers lined the shores of Whiteswan Lake on Thursday, January 3rd anticipating big bites at the start of the ice fishing season. Pictured, left to right: Richard Otis, Curtis Dodd and Ethan Dodd, 6, of Radium, show off their catch of the day.

See more photos on page 13.

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

Open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Valley NEWS

Located at Copper Point Resort, 760 Cooper Road 250-341-4002 • www.copperpointresort.com

GIVE YOUR BABY THE BEST: NEW CHAPTER’S PERFECT PRENATAL

Your body. Our world. Be kind to both.

Featuring quality products from Dr. Hauschka, Shuzi, Norwex, Winalite, New Chapter, Apple Island, & LiteBook

Dorothy Isted • www.healthfair.biz • 250-342-3826

LEGO-PALOOZA! Adventure Club for kids in Gr. 5-7 Friday, January 18th 2-4 p.m.

Join us for an afternoon of Lego creations.

Games, contests, food and fun.

Please call the library for information and to register. 250-342-6416

invermere.bclibrary.ca

New Winter Hours (Same great prices)

Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thank you for your business.

Winter Wonderful Invermere!

PUBLIC PRESENCE — Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks announces $60,300 in federal funding for upgrades to the Windermere Community Hall on January 6th.

Photos by Kristian Rasmussen

Wilks talks omnibus budget bill

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff With the changes it incurs to 64 acts and regulations, the 400-page-plus federal omnibus budget bill will affect the Columbia Valley mainly in terms of First Nations rights and impacts on bodies of water.

The Pioneer caught up with Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks and representatives from both local First Nations to chat about Bill C-45, the omnibus budget bill introduced in October 2012.

Waterways will be affected by the Navigation Protection Act, which replaces the 130-year-old Navigable Waters Protection Act, originally designed to protect the public’s right to navigate waters deep enough to float a canoe in. Although the act was primarily focused on navigation, structures like dams or bridges required environmental assessments before being built. The new act removes this assessment requirement from the majority of waterways across Canada.

“Anything that diminishes oversight and doesn’t replace it with something else is obviously a concern to us,” said Kathryn Teneese, chair of the Ktunaxa Nation Council.

Shuswap councillor Barbara Cote agreed.

“We are not against development, but there needs to be proper consultation,” she added. “My understanding is that the federal government is making major staffing cuts to the federal environmental sector and is looking for cost saving ideas, which is a good strategy; however, we can’t do it at the expense of our natural environment.”

Although many waterways will lose their protected status, both the Columbia and Kootenay rivers have

been included in the act, Mr. Wilks added.

“What the Navigable Waters Act is for is the moving of boats, ships and vessels. The Kootenay and Columbia Rivers, at one point, had paddle wheelers and there is still potential of having larger vessels on them.

On the smaller bodies of water that doesn’t hold true, so we removed that. It has nothing to do with the Environmental Protection Act.” Changes to the Indian Act within the bill have also received attention because bands are now able to lease reserve lands if the majority at a meeting agree to do so. Decisions surrounding leased land required the approval of a majority of voters within a band before bill C-45. Critics worry that the changes will allow for the easier opening of treaty lands and territory.

“Through the Indian Act we have allowed for delegation of land on reserves, what that allows is for First Nations to do economic development on their land,” Mr. Wilks said. “We are also moving towards allowing First Nations to lease and own their own property on reserves, which they have never been able to do in the 137 years since the Indian Act was proclaimed.”

The changes to the act are designed to streamline decision making and to reduce government involvement in the process, Mr. Wilks added.

The changes to the Indian Act will likely have no immediate affect on the Ktunaxa Nation, but the act itself is troubling, Ms. Teneese said.

“I guess more broadly our concern is that the Indian Act continues to exist,” she said. “This government continues to chip away at the Indian Act, rather than to look at it in totality.”

MARTIAL ARTS KARATE

7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday Phone Jeremiah 250-342-5385 to register.

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Adults 6 p.m. Friday • Kids, 4 p.m. Sunday Phone Alex 250-409-4224 to register.

January 11, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

Valley NEWS

Canal Flats arena costs rise by $305,000

By Kate Irwin Pioneer Staff The $1 million price tag on Canal Flats’ planned arena upgrades is set to increase by one third after an engineering report identified additional work needed on the facility, beyond the original estimate.

Originally budgeted at $1 million in 2008, the total cost for a full renovation of the facility is now assessed at $1.305 million. The village is seeking funding to make up the shortfall.

“The Bearden Engineering report did analysis on the arena four years ago to identify upgrades needed,” said Brian Woodward, the village’s chief administrative and financial officer. “Now that we have our assessment done in 2012, additional costs have arisen.”

A complete overhaul of the facility, including a new ice surface, replacement of the bleachers and new refrigeration system has been a long time coming. The arena has not been refurbished much since its construction, beyond the occasional coat of paint, Mr. Woodward added.

The arena, which was built in the early 1970s, is a key piece of the Canal Flats economy and is used regularly by visiting hockey teams, as well as local skaters.

“It’s a major economic boon for our community,” Mr. Woodward said. “Just about every weekend we have tournaments here; people staying in the area, buying gas and food ... usually in the winter we’re quiet, but this means 100 - 200 families descending on the arena.”

Some elements, like the replacement of the ice surface, were identified in the original engineering report in 2008. New unforeseen costs include $157,000 for replacement of the bleachers and nearly $150,000 of smaller bits and pieces of work to ensure the arena meets building codes.

The village has already received $950,000 in funding from a provincial grant, the regional district and the Columbia Basin Trust. Now the municipality must find the remaining $355,000.

“We’ve applied to the Columbia Basin Trust and Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund to raise the extra amount,” Mr. Woodward stated. “If we are

unsuccessful or cannot raise the full amount... the remainder can be raised through the Canal Flats Recreation Service Area.”

Should either or both of the funding applications prove unsuccessful, the village will turn to taxation to make up the shortfall.

Residents within the Canal Flats Recreation Service area, which includes those in the municipality, would be expected to pay a tax increase for the upgrades. The amount depends on the total amount of funding the village can secure to help make up the $355,000 deficit.

Although Canal Flats is now part of the Columbia Valley Recreation Service Area, the valley will not be expected to shoulder the cost of the renovations. Part of the agreement made when the village joined up is that the former Canal Flats Recreation Service area is responsible for paying for arena upgrades.

Staff at the Village of Canal Flats are hoping to hear back on the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund application by the end of March. It is unknown when the Columbia Basin Trust will respond.

Windermere youth centre hits the ground running

By Greg Amos Pioneer Staff The new youth centre in Windermere is up and running earlier than planned thanks to a significant last-minute donation by a local man moving to the U.S. Invermere’s Nick Berzins has donated most of the contents of his home, including assets like a ping pong table, a 50-inch TV, and an Xbox video game console to the new youth centre. Items that can’t be used in the centre will be liquidated through two upcoming garage sales, to be held on January 19th and January 26th.

“It was perfect timing; the kids in Windermere are thrilled,” said Gracie Boake of the Windermere Community Association, which was able to move the items into the Windermere community hall on Saturday, January 5th, prior to a sleepover held there that C

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night for eight eager kids. The hall is slated to benefit from a recently-announced $60,000 grant.

“This is a big deal, because the grant we have in place now is for renovations,” said Ms. Boake. “This goes to the kids; it’s a lot of money if we had to go out and buy these things.”

After reading the story in The Pioneer about the new youth centre planned for Windermere, Mr. Berzins, a former board member for Invermere’s Summit Youth Centre, said he felt putting his possessions towards a good cause would be easier than taking things with him to his new home in Boulder, Colorado.

“I understand how tough it is for some of the non-profits to get funding,” he said. “There’s some stuff they can use immediately, and some that they can sell through a garage sale.”

“I took my mountian bikes, my dog, photos and memorabilia; the rest was just material stuff,” added

Mr. Berzins, who moved last Wednesday, January 2nd.

The two garage sales will be held at Mr. Berzins’ house at 1709 8th Avenue from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on each of the two days.

Basment renovations at the Windermere hall could be complete as soon as the end of this month, said Mrs. Boake, and the community association plans to wait until then to move in most of its new possessions.

“Whatever we don’t use for the youth centre will be in the garage sale,” said Mrs. Boake, who added the youth centre, intended to serve those aged 12 to 18, is already taking shape with events being planned.

Mr. Berzins, who ran Thunderwater Engineering and Construction in Invermere and was also involved in the Greenways Trail Alliance, reports that Boulder offers a plethora of bike trails and off-leash dog parks, and could offer a useful template for the District of Invermere to follow.

Get Festive!

January 18-20, 2013 Parades | Pancake Breakfasts | Tubing Rail Jams | Carnival Games | Candy Making Live Music | Night Skiing | Family Portraits

Come out for the day or stay slopeside with a Vacation Package!

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

RCMP Report

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Government Rebates • Furnace Replacements • Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems

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summit.centre@gmail.com Upstairs, 709 10th Street Box 133, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Membership - a loonie for all youth between the ages of 12 and 18.

Upcoming Events • • • • • •

speed and going from side to side, officers pulled over the vehicle at the intersection of Athalmer Road and Highway 93/95.

The 39-year-old female driver from Windermere displayed signs of being impaired.

She also admitted to the officer she should not be driving. A roadside breath demand was given, at which time a ‘fail’ was registered. The vehicle was impounded for 30 days and her driver’s licence was suspended for 90 days.

Submitted by Staff Sgt. Marko Shehovac Columbia Valley RCMP

Friday, January 11th - Meet your friends at the Summit night Saturday, 12th - Going to the Rockies Hockey Game, leaving the Summit at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, January 15th - Homework Club night Wednesday, January 16th - Summit “Youth Board” information meeting at 6 p.m., all youth interested in being on the Youth Board are welcome Thursday, January 17th - Meet your friends at the Summit night Saturday, January 19th - Snowshoeing at Lake Lillian, leaving the Summit at 1:30 pm, snow shoes provided, (come dressed for the weather with warm boots, a call in advance to register would be appreciated)

Hours of Operation Tuesday, 3:30 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursday 3:30 to 9 p.m.

Friday 4:30 to 10 p.m.

Saturday 4:30 to 10 p.m.

See you at the Summit!

I hope everyone had a good Christmas. Remember, there are only 348 more sleeps left until next Christmas. I keep track. Some Christmas displays stay up year round in my office. I also noted that Corporal Grant Simpson had some fun at my expense while I was away in regards to an accident I had. It’s just a case of another frustrated goalie who didn’t go far with his hockey career getting a little revenge.

From December 23rd to January 7th, the detachment responded to 100 calls for service. For 2012, detachment members responded to a total of 2,886 calls for service.

• On January 1st, an alert staff member at the Prestige Inn in Radium Hot Springs contacted the detachment to do a wellbeing check on a guest due to comments made by a woman. On attendance, police located a 33-yearold intoxicated male from Calgary in his room. He was charged with breaching court condition by consuming alcohol. The woman in question was found unharmed.

• On January 4th at 3:30 p.m., officers attended a single vehicle accident on Highway 93 near Kootenay Crossing in Kootenay National Park. A 2006 Ford SUV was located in a ditch. The 61-year-old driver from Calgary advised that his right tire veered into a snowdrift, causing him to lose control of the vehicle. The vehicle struck a sign and ended up in the ditch. There were no injuries to the driver and the vehicle received minor damage.

• On January 5th at 9:50 p.m., a 1998 Dodge Dakota pickup truck driven by a 30-year-old Airdrie man struck a sheep on Highway 93/95. There was some damage to the vehicle, however it was still drivable. The file did not indicate how the sheep made out.

• On January 6th at 7:30 p.m., after observing a vehicle traveling at a very slow speed and swaying from side to side, officers pulled over a Ford Windstar As a result of observing a vehicle drive at a very slow

Complacency Christmas is normally a time where there are thoughts of peace on Earth and goodwill to all — well, you would think.

Prior to going on holidays the girls in the office dropped off a giftwrapped package for me, but would not say who dropped it off. I opened the envelope and, low and behold, I discovered a card from Raging Grandma. Going back in memory, this is the lady who has assaulted me twice by striking me in the shins at the arena.

Two thoughts came to mind. Either it was nice and she came bearing gifts in peace and wanted to bury the axe, or there was a bomb in there. There were no ticking noises, so I very gently unwrapped it, with the afterthought that maybe I should have run it through the x-ray scanner at the hospital first.

What I found in the box took me right back to the first Godfather movie. There is the scene where the movie mogul wakes up to see his prize horse’s severed head in bed with him. Then the time a dead fish is delivered to Sonny to indicate Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes. Very strong messages delivered, one would say.

Well, those were no different from the message I received in the guise of a Christmas gift. Before my eyes appeared a pair of hockey shin pads. The message was pretty clear.

I will never ever again promote hockey violence and dropping the gloves for 7-year-olds without first checking to see if a grandmother of one of those kids out on the ice is within hearing distance. I was getting very complacent of the threat, but am now back on heightened alert.

Hot Deals! January Daily Specials at the Hot Springs.

Monday

Parent & Tot Parent $5, Tots FREE

Tuesday

Visit the Valley Day Half price entry with proof of accommodation

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Entry only $2 after 6:00pm

2 for 1

Pools & Pizza

Entry only $5.55 with proof of age

Two entries for the price of one.

FREE slice of pizza at Misty Waters with every full price entry fee

Toonie Night

55+ Day

Saturday

Sunday

Family Swim Day 2 adults and 2 kids swim all day for only $20

M TW T F S S Daily specials end January 31, 2013. Tot is 5 and under. Plus taxes. Visit the Valley Day includes visitors staying in any accommodators throughout the Columbia Valley. Plus taxes.

fairmonthotsprings.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

January 11, 2013

Craig Franzen:

A special birthday wish to

Our son, grandson, brother, dad, husband, nephew, uncle and friend, on his 40th birthday.

Lordy, Lordy, Tootie’s 40!

We love you.

Advertorial

THE PERFECT RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE AQUATIC AUTO — Club Towing staff and a diver work on Wednesday, January 2nd to extract the vehicle that went through the ice, just off Windermere Beach on December 24th. The team began working at 9 a.m. using chain saws to cut a hole in the ice, first for a diver to go in to view the vehicle and to attach a chain, and then worked tirelessly to cut a channel in the ice to pull the vehicle as close to the shore as possible, before extracting it. The team worked well into the darkness to retrieve the Nissan Pathfinder.

Photo submitted by Kaitlyn Lachance

Lake ice safety questioned

By Greg Amos Pioneer Staff In the wake of recovery efforts for a vehicle that crashed through lake ice near Windermere Beach on Christmas Eve, the wisdom behind driving on the lake’s ice road is coming under scrutiny.

A Nissan Pathfinder that went under was recovered

by Club Towing on Wednesday, January 2nd, after it had broken through ice estimated to be four to five inches thick.

Though the ice was a foot thick when the waterlogged vehicle finally breached the surface nine days later, Windermere Fire Chief Jim Miller cautioned that should not be enough to provide a sense of safety for those driving on the lake.

“The lake is changing; it’s not like it used to be,” he said. “All over the place we’re finding ice from a foot to as little as four inches thick.”

“There are dark-looking areas on the ice – usually they appear grey and white – that indicate a crack in the area,” he added. “The lake was full of them when we were out there looking at the car, and a lot of it is to do with methane from rotting weeds.”

The Pathfinder’s driver and his dog were easily able

to escape the sinking vehicle, as only one tire initially went through the ice. When he returned after seeking help, the vehicle had gone under. But in many cases, a vehicle can be lost much more rapidly.

The ice road that runs between Windermere Beach and Kinsmen Beach in Invermere is yet to be opened this year, and as far as the Regional District of East Kootenay is concerned, is never considered to be an official roadway.

Although there was agreement reached to create codes of conduct for winter motor vehicle use on the lake under the Lake Windermere Management Plan completed in February 2011, “nothing’s been actioned on that front to date,” said Kevin Patterson, environmental services manager at the regional district.

“Since the car went through, I haven’t seen too many vehicles drive out there,” said Miller, who noted the heavy rains last summer have pushed the delta of Windermere Creek further into the lake, affecting the stability of ice in areas traditionally thought to be safer.

“Every year it’s changing; it’s getting less stable.”

Though the ice road is not official, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia continues to provide coverage in some cases when vehicles break through the ice.

RCMP also patrol the lake and can issue tickets for speeding, impaired driving and other illegal activity.

Seniors want it all: a comfortable home, independence to follow their own schedule and maintain their own interests, safety and security, delicious food and the company of others. And who can blame them? Not long ago, seniors had limited housing options, and few met all of their needs. But when Columbia Garden Village opened its doors a new style of seniors housing opened in Invermere, providing today’s seniors the opportunity to experience retirement living at its best.

Columbia Garden Village is a well-crafted seniors’ community boasting 48 beautiful suites ranging from studios to one and two bedroom layouts. These maintenance-free living suites incorporate supportive features to promote independence and 24-hour emergency monitoring service for added peace of mind. Kitchens include a fridge and stove and each suite is equipped with its own personal heat and air conditioning controls. Beyond the suite is access to a variety of common areas which include a games room, spa room, library, dining room, coffee room, crafts room, hair salon and lounges. All areas are easily accessible, full of interesting people, engaging activities and share a wonderful sense of community.

Hospitality services at Columbia Garden Village are included in the affordable monthly rent and include weekly housekeeping, a wide selection of recreational and social activities, 24 hour emergency monitoring, shuttle bus service, and hot, delicious meals prepared by on-site chefs. And each meal is served by cheerful wait staff in a central dining room, with a cozy fireplace where guests and families are always welcome.

In addition to the hospitality services, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing they don’t have to worry about extra bills because all utilities including water, sewer, heat, air conditioning and cable are also included.

What’s more, Columbia Garden Village’s convenient location enables seniors to easily maintain their relationships with friends and family. And at Columbia Garden Village pets are a big part of the family. In this pet friendly building residents are encouraged to bring their pets with them to live.

Free from the responsibilities of home-ownership, seniors at Columbia Garden Village can enjoy the many other activities and joys that life offers. We’re fortunate to live in a time when retirement living options provide everything seniors want – and more! Columbia Garden Village is open daily; and you can call (250) 341-3350 for more information or to book a tour.

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

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

perspective

Eye of the storm

By Greg Amos

This is one time of the year that, at least within the confines of our unusually-calm newsroom, feels like being in the eye of the storm.

In the post-Christmas lull, we’re offered a brief respite from the mad rush of consumerism, hustle and bustle, and general action that seems to pack every month of the year, except these oft-neglected, marginalized months of January and February.

But in dullness, there lies opportunity. What better time of year to improve oneself, and take the time to truly live in the moment?

Without the stress of impending vacations, school exams, or other threats to sanity, these months are a great time to reflect on what’s important, to pay some attention to one’s various projects on the back burner, and to be expansive when it comes to appreciating family, friends and possibly even co-workers.

(It’s also not a bad time to get expansive with headlines — check out the gargantuan size of the font at the top of this column.)

This distraction-free period is a great time to mull over questions that have lingered for too long, now that we’re afforded the clarity to examine our lives. Reflecting now can pay major dividends later.

These wintry weeks provide some rare chances to really enjoy our lives. It’s a good time to pick up a new winter sport, whether it’s cross-country skiing across vast stretches of Whiteway, or skating across the smallest of frozen puddles.

As always, we can expect the storm front to announce itself as spring approaches. A provincial election set for May means we’ll be engulfed in a campaign blitz before too long. Easter’s bound to be a busy time.

And NHL hockey is back, so the playoffs are sure to obliterate weeks of otherwise productive time.

Historical Lens HISTORIC HOCKEY — ­ A group of stick handlers gathered together for a game on Lake Windermere at James Chabot Beach near Athalmer in 1912. Due to the date of the photo, not all of the first names of the gentlemen pictured are available. Pictured, from left to right: Mr. Stewart, Bernard Monk, W.H. Cleland, George Bennett, Mr. Hall, and I.C. Wedd, who was manager of the Imperial Bank, take time in between plays to pose for a photo on the lake.

Photo (A5) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Auditor general deserves second term Dear Editor: On January 4th, the B.C. provincial government announced that it will not be renewing the six-year term of provincial auditor general John Doyle. This is an unfortunate development for the residents and taxpayers of B.C. Over the past six years Mr. Doyle has been very diligent and effective in the performance of his duties.

He has repeatedly taken the government to task over its financial mismanagement of provincial matters.

The media in Victoria and Vancouver has very appropriately printed out that with the provincial election campaigns starting up on the first of April, the last thing Premier Christy Clark wants is Mr. Doyle coming out with more negative reports about how the government is doing its job. Therefore, John Doyle must go.

He is being fired for being a competent, hardworking auditor general. What a shame!

Jim Galloway, Brisco

The Columbia Valley

Pioneer

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Misko Publishing Limited Partnership.

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

Rose-Marie Regitnig Publisher

Greg Amos Editor

Kate Irwin Reporter/ Special Publications Editor

Kristian Rasmussen Reporter

Dean Midyette Advertising Sales

Angela Krebs Advertising Sales

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design

Amanda Diakiw Office Administrator/ Classified Sales

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

January 11, 2013

LETTERS

‘Land grab’ theory is grandstanding Dear Editor: In your January 4th, 2013 letter re: Jumbo, the local NDP candidate seems to have subscribed to Neil Postman’s view that “If politics is like show business, then the idea is not to pursue excellence, clarity or honesty but to appear that you are” and the performance he has offered gives the appearance he is vying for an academy award.

In his theatrics he attempted to tell us that there is a Jumbo “land grab” by “BC liberal insiders,” yet offers absolutely no reference to any fact that would substantiate his claim. He grandstands by trying to have us believe that “75 emails” supporting his “land grab” claim constitutes a majority of people in a riding with over 24,000 eligible voters and a general population double or more that size.

He then attempts to bring clarity to his “land grab” theory by citing a conversation he had with representatives of a local rod and gun club stating that “not one thought it was a good idea”. Yet when I spoke to the same rod and gun club, only one of their members brought the “land grab” issue up, and that individual was a disciple of the NDP candidate’s “land grab” conspiracy team .

ICE UPDATE

While the NDP candidate continues to campaign on what seems to be a single issue platform, I continue to receive calls from constituents who are frustrated with issues that they face in their daily lives, issues that I am helping find solutions for after they have been told by the NDP candidate that “there is nothing I can do to help you”.

I have staked my campaign on accomplishing what an effective MLA should do: to help people create measurable outcomes and solutions to those issues that affect their lives and families.

I am honoured to be the candidate who stands with the majority of citizens in this area who believe in maintaining our province’s strong and vibrant free enterprise economy; an economy that continues to create sustainable jobs and careers. I am excited to be the candidate striving to achieve an environmental policy that is practical, balanced and reflective of all people, not just special interest groups. I am committed to be the candidate fighting for principles that make our families prouder, stronger and better.

Doug Clovechok, BC Liberal Candidate Columbia River Revelstoke Riding

As of the afternoon of Tuesday, January 8th, the ice thickness 50 feet offshore from Kinsmen Beach was 12 inches.

We want to hear from you Email your letters to info@cv-pioneer. 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.

We do not publish open letters or third-party letters.

Letters for publication should be no

longer than 400 words, and must include the writer’s address and phone numbers. No attachments, please.

Letters may be shortened for space requirements. We reserve the right to edit for space, clarity, civility and accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not The Pioneer.

Invermere’s Premier Spa Destination is looking for dynamic individual(s) to join our Guest Services Team working at both the Downtown and Copper Point Resort locations. As a valued member of our Team your goal is to ensure that our guests receive the very best Fusion experience while supporting our Fusion Team.

You will conduct yourself in a professional and diplomatic manner as you approach your duties as a Fusion ambassador to ensure our ongoing success. The successful candidate will have: · · · · · ·

a minimum 12 months experience in the guest services industry superior communications skills demonstrated ability to be friendly, efficient, polite and patient proficient computer skills the ability to multi-task and to adapt to shifting priorities as needed willingness to attend all offered training programs to expand your product and service knowledge

At Fusion we offer a competitive compensation package including retail commission, discounted services and a medical benefits program. If this sounds like the career move you have been looking for please submit your resume to copperpoint@fusionwellnessspa.com.

Family Resource Centre presents our 18th annual T ick et inclu des tapa s Asia -style n cu isine and , ag of bu lass bbly.

Sponsored by…

Chinese New Year Gala Saturday, February 9th, 2013 at Copper Point Resort Tickets $50 each Everyone welcome.

Ticket sales start on January 16th.

Call the Family Resource Centre for ticket details, 250-342-5566.

Proceeds go to the Women’s Shelter.

All Angles is now

With the same great service you’ve come to expect!

Call us for your heavy duty towing We also offer: • Towing • Flat deck service • Locksmith • Boat recovery • Off road recovery • Free recycling of scrap cars

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Windermere Valley Childcare Society expresses a huge THANK YOU to Carolyn Barzilay for the opportunity to be involved once again in the big craft fair.

Thank you to Carolyn and everyone for their support.

- The WVCCS COLUMBIA VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL

Call to Artists for 2013 Gallery Season at Pynelogs Art Gallery For Applications/Guidelines call or email:

250.342.4423 info@columbiavalleyarts.com The deadline is January 17, 2013.

Be part of bringing ARTS to the Columbia Valley

ATTENTION SENIORS! ONLY 1 TWO-BEDROOM SUITE LEFT! • • • • • • • • • • •

Delicious Meals 24-Hour Emergency Monitoring Shuttle Bus Daily Activities & Entertainment Housekeeping Studio, 1 and 2 Bedroom Suites Beauty Salon Library Theatre / Chapel Games Room Exercise Room

CALL TODAY (250) 341-3350 INVERMERE

January 11, 2013

Bonspiel celebrates 30 years the ice there.”

The prep begins by workers clearing snow off of the A frozen playground of playing surface and carving out bumps, heaves and frost will mean eight lanes which are divided an infinite number of outcomes using two-by-fours frozen into for veteran curlers and newbies the ice. The setup team pumps alike at the 30th annual Bonspiel extra lake water into the lanes On the Lake held at Kinsmen to level them out.

Beach on January 18th-20th.

Workers use a router tool “I love curling to start with, to carve the lines of the curling but I also love the uniqueness of rings into the ice, which they the Bonspiel,” said Rob Dunn, fill with small amounts of nonwho has competed at the event toxic paint. The setup crew, for 28 years. “I love the fact that I with the help of BC Hydro, don’t know if it is going to be -20 also sinks utility poles into the C or zero degrees and sunny.” ice, which support a full lightThe event allows only 64 ing system so that curlers may teams per year and currently has hurl their rocks into the night. a waiting list of close to 120 play“It is definitely not the high ers, some of whom have waited skills competition curling for the 10 years for a spot in the coveted most part, because it is the natutournament. The bonspiel is cel- ROCKING THE RINK ­— Invermere Curling ral ice,” added Mr. Hogarth. “I ebrated for offering a unique out- Club President Vic Brier shows his game face in have heard stories of people that door challenge for curlers of all anticipation of the upcoming Bonspiel on the Lake won their game because they age groups and skill sets. Build- to be held January 20-22nd at Kinsmen Beach. managed to get a rock in the ing an outdoor rink open to the Photo by Kristian Rasmussen house on the first end and noelements means that even the body could get it out.” most delicate grooming will still come with some imperEven with all of the prep and planning put into defections, which make for exciting games. signing the natural surface, nature can still bump the “Normal curling ice is very predictable,” Mr. Dunn best laid plans. The event has been cancelled twice in its added. “If you get a heave or a crack on the lake the 30 year history, once due to a blizzard and again because rock will jump over it and wobble. If you throw it fast of a warm spell that rendered the ice unsafe. This year enough, it won’t curve down the side slopes.” there’s expected to be a foot or two of ce by the time the His powerful approach to overcoming the unpre- bonspiel occurs, said Vic Brier, manager of the Inverdictability of the ice surface has helped Mr. Dunn’s team mere Curling Club. to win the event multiple times, but the goal of the game The fun leaves the ice on Saturday night for the is not all about winning, he added.

Bonspiel Banquet and Dance beginning at 6 p.m. at the “It is an amazing event for anyone to come watch, Invermere Community Hall, which has become a little if even for a minute,” he added. “Don’t take yourself too more exclusive for this year. An engineering report of the seriously and dress warm.” building has reduced the number of patrons the Curling Although the spirit of the bonspiel is relaxed, volunteers Club is allowed to admit from 300 down to 250. have been working tirelessly as the event date approaches.

“Apparently there were reports of the building mov“We put eight sheets of ice out on the lake,” said ing during the dance last year,” added Mr. Hogarth.

Invermere Curling Club Ice technician Gary Hogarth Players are expected to come from as far as White“They have got a couple of weeks to get it ready and so fish, Montana, and Seattle, Washington, to compete for they are out just off Kinsmen Beach area starting to prep trophies awarded to the top 16 teams.

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff

Photo Contest

Submissions may be any visual art including photography, digital art photography, 3-D, and paintings. Submissions must be in a JPG/PDF file with a resolution of 800 ppi/dpi. Wings Over the Rockies will have the rights to use all submissions in marketing and promotional materials with credit to the artist. We will announce a winner and the runner ups in a small article in the February 1st issue of The Columbia Valley Pioneer, with photos. Entries must be submitted by Friday, January 25th.

Sponsored by…

Submit your photos by Email to contest@cv-pioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

The Columbia Valley Pioneer Page•99

January 11, 2013

What’s Happening in the Columbia Valley

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

Battle blows The Columbia Valley Rockies put up a spirited fight against the Golden Rockets, but succumbed to a 4-3 loss at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Friday, January 4th. Pictured: Ryan Henderson flashes a crimson smile after an unfortunate face-first encounter with the ice.

MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 10

NEW CHAIR

PAGE 22

Out & About Photo by Kristian Rasmussen

Artist Call-Out What does ART mean to you?

for 2013 Art Gallery Season Deadline: Jan 16th · Call for info 250.342.4423 Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423.

Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley Page 13

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

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

Movie Review: Hit & Run Reviewed by Greg Amos Hit and Run is the ultimate Dax Sheppard vehicle.

The little-known actor — a cast member of such widely-known films as Without A Paddle, Idiocracy, and Let’s Go To Prison — not only plays the leading role, but also wrote, co-directed, did stunt driving and in general is responsible for Hit and Run. It’s an action romantic comedy, one that Dax and various actor pals put together for about $2 million, by deferring salaries and using his own vehicles. This is both good and bad: while the movie takes some risks and creates some pretty inventive car chase scenes, the slapped-together nature of the movie is painfully obvious at times.

Charlie Bronson (Dax Sheppard) and Annie (Kristen Bell) live in an idyllic small town in northern California

where she teaches and he stays at home, when Annie gets a once-in-a-lifetime job offer to head her own department (she holds a doctorate in non-violent conflict resolution) at a university in Los Angeles.

Just one problem: Charlie can’t go anywhere, as he’s in the witness protection program for having testified in a bank robbery case, we learn through visits from Randy (Tom Arnold), the sloppy U.S. Marshall assigned to watch over him.

After a microsecond of soul-searching, Charlie decides he can’t hold Annie back, and decides to drive her to L.A. in the car he’s been hiding from her, a 1967 Lincoln Continental with a 700-horsepower engine.

Things start to unravel when Annie makes a quick stop at her ex-boyfriend’s place to grab her teaching degree. Her jealous ex, Gil (Michael Rosenbaum) is suspicious, and through a phone call to his police officer

brother, begins to uncover Charlie’s true identity. Soon enough, the people he crossed to wind up under witness protection are onto his trail.

This results in some great chases involving the Lincoln, a Corvette Grand Sport, a Cadillac CTS-V wagon, and a worthless minivan. The showdown on an abandoned runway and through an airport hangar is a particularly good scene.

It’s the poor and often tasteless dialogue that brings the movie down. A better title for it might be Hit & Miss.

It’s a bit of a mess, but if you can get past the plot weaknesses, you might just enjoy the ride.

RATING: 5 OUT OF 10 HEADS

Columbia Valley Rockies Home Hardware Nights at Eddie Mountain Arena Rockies vs Kimberley Dynamiters Friday, January 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Rockies vs Fernie Ghostriders Saturday, January 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Everyone who comes to the game will receive a Home Hardware gift package that includes: - One free key cutting - 20% cash and carry discount coupon off all regularly priced merchandise in the store through February 28.

Play Shoot to Win between periods with the purchase of a program. Two contestant will have a chance to win a $250 gift card each night!

Exciting changes are happening.

Eagle Ranch Clubhouse will be closed for renovations as of January 1st, 2013.

Stay tuned for re-opening details in the spring. stonecreekresorts.com

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Looper The Bourne Legacy Ted Pitch Perfect Ice Age: Continental Drift

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Frankenweenie House at the End of the Street Dredd Hit & Run The Inbetweeners

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Taken 2 The Possession Won’t Back Down To Rome with Love About Cherry

RENT 2 NEW RELEASE MOVIES... and receive a FREE 2L pop, or FREE old release rental, or $2 in movie money.

503 - 7th Ave., Invermere • 250-342-0057

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

January 11, 2013

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

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

Wednesday, January 16th

Friday, January 25th

• 6 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre is holding an information meeting for any youth who may be interested in being on the Summit Youth Centre’s Youth Board.

• 6 p.m.: Bingo night at Windermere Community Hall. Doors open at 6 p.m., game starts at 7 p.m.

• 8 - 11 p.m.: Fairmont Fire and Ice Festival’s Rabbie Burns Day Celebration at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s Bears Paw Bar & Grill. Best plaid Scottish outfit wins $50 gift card. Drink and Scottish food specials.

Live music with Mike Orr. For more information, contact 250-345-6016.

Friday, January 18th

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 • January 10th - 12th, 7:30 p.m.: Skyfall.

Friday, January 11th • Painting From The Heart watercolour classes at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Series of five classes on consecutive Fridays. For more information, contact Pynelogs Cultural Centre at 250-342-4423.

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

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for juniors and seniors.

Gift packages for all attendees from Home Hardware.

• 8:30 p.m.: Folk rock duo Devon and Kevin play at the Station Pub in Invermere. No cover charge.

Saturday, January 12th • 7 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre is going to the Rockies’ hockey game. Group leaves the Summit Youth Centre at 7 p.m. All youth are welcome. To arrange attendance in advance, call 250-342-3033 or email summit.centre@gmail.com .

• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies vs. Fernie Ghostriders at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Tickets: $8 for adults, $5 for juniors and seniors. Gift packages for all attendees from Home Hardware.

Tuesday, January 15th • 11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.: The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce presents their general meeting with a local government update from the Regional District of East Kootenay. For more information, please contact Susan Clovechok at 250-342-2844.

• 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.: Invermere Snowflake Festival at Kinsmen Beach. Taste of the Valley menu sampling from local restaurants, curling, hockey, skating, food, games, fireworks and more. For more information, please call the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce at 250342-2844.

• 4 p.m.: Registration begins for Curling Bonspiel on the Lake at the Invermere Curling Rink. Curling begins at Kinsmen Beach after teams register. Bonspiel tournament runs from January 18th - 20th. For more information, contact the Invermere Curling Club at 250-342-3315 or by email at invermerecurlingclub@shaw.ca .

• Panorama Mountain Snowflake Festival from January 18th - 20th at Panorama Mountain Village. For information: www.panorama.com/winter/winter-festivals .

Saturday, January 19th • 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Contents-of-home garage sale at 1709 8th Avenue, Invermere to fundraise for the Windermere Community Association Youth Centre.

• 1:30 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre group leaves Invermere for a snowshoeing excursion at Panorama Mountain Village. Snow shoes are provided. To register in advance, please call 250-342-3033 or e-mail summit.centre@gmail.com .

• 3 – 6 p.m.: Fundraiser for the planned Windermere Youth Centre. Spaghetti dinner for $6 at Windermere Community Hall. Fundraiser towards youth centre.

For more info , call Gracie at 250-342-0589.

Wednesday, January 23rd

Saturday, January 26th • Fairmont Fire and Ice Festival’s Australia Day celebration at Fairmont Ski Area. Hit the slopes in nothing but your bathing suit for one run and receive a free hot springs pass. Prizes will also be awarded for best ski/ snowboard bathing suit costume. For more information, contact 250-345-6049.

• 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Contents-of-home garage sale at 1709 8th Avenue, Invermere to fundraise for the Windermere Community Association Youth Centre.

• 7:30 p.m.: The Summit Youth Centre is going on an Almost full-moon walk. Leaving the youth centre at 7:40 p.m. A phone call or email in advance is appreciated to confirm attendance. 250-342-3033 or summit. centre@gmail.com .

• 6 p.m.: Annual Fairmont Fire and Ice Festival Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala Dinner at Hoodoo Grill. $80 per person, plus tax. Live music, silent auction and dinner. Reserve tickets by calling 250-345-2166.

Sunday, January 27th • 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Free pancake breakfast at Smoking Water Coffee Company as part of the Fairmont Fire and Ice Festival.

Wednesday, January 30th • 6 - 9 p.m.: Games night at the Windermere Community Hall. All welcome.

Thursday, January 31st

• 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.: Scrapbooking with the Summit Youth Centre at Scrapper’s Cove. To register in advance, please call 250-342-3033 or email summit.centre@gmail.com .

• 12 p.m.- 2 p.m. The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce presents their general meeting with a community policing update from the Columbia Valley RCMP detachment. For more information, contact Susan Clovechok at 250-342-2844.

Friday, January 25th

Invermere Library hours

• 8:30 p.m.: Folk duo Broken Down Suitcase plays at the Station Pub in Invermere. No cover charge.

For more information, contact 250-342-5557.

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

• Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The 2013 MaxWell calendars are in for pickup!

926-7th Avenue, Invermere, B.C.

(next door to Fairmont Goldsmiths) 250-341-6044 • Fax: (250) 341-6046 MaxWell Realty Invermere/Panorama/Fairmont www.maxwellrealtyinvermere.ca

DANIEL ZURGILGEN 250-342-1612

SCOTT WALLACE 250-342-5309

BERNIE RAVEN 250-342-7415

GLENN POMEROY 250-270-0666

GEOFF HILL 250-341-7600

CHRIS RAVEN 250-409-9323

danielzurgilgen@gmail.com

scott@scottwallace.ca

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glennpomeroy@shaw.ca

connect@geoffhill.ca

chrisraven09@gmail.com

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

Wilfley’s heifers deemed worthy of prize suitable they’re likely to become to raise good calves when they’re older.

With his main ranch located in Eastend, Saskatchewan, Doug keeps the majority of his cattle at A prize offer of $2,500 wasn’t enough to conthe much larger 6,700-acre property found there. vince Windermere Valley rancher Doug Wilfley to In addition to good bloodlines, raising good heifers part with his handsome All Black heifers. is about passing on good behaviour, which means The beautiful bovines won top prize for Doug brings the heifer calves in to run with 12 older Commercial Bred Heifers at the Medicine Hat Beef cows, kept back at Alpine when the main herd was Pen Show held on December 21 and 22 last year — moved to Saskatchewan six years ago, in the hopes of but rather than sell the three cows for a combined passing on gentle and compliant dispositions. $7,500, Doug chose to keep them within the herd at Mr. Knudson plays a key role in picking which his family’s 120-acre ranch, found behind the Windheifer calves to keep, Doug emphasized. ermere Valley Golf Course, which the Wilfley family “He’s got lots of friends left out here; he lives in has owned for several years.

Saskatchewan full time now,” said Doug, who also Doug began ranching about 15 years ago, credits former neighbour Fritz Maurer with convinchaving learned a few things from his father, Jim, who ing him of the worth of his cows. put together the initial Wilfley cattle herd.

HEALTHY HEIFERS — Alpine ranch manager Toby Knudson ac“For 10 or 11 years, we were selling all our After hearing neighbouring ranchers praise the cepts top prize for commercial bred heifers from two Stampede Queens fine quality of his heifers, Doug decided to see how at the Medicine Hat Beef Pen Show held on December 21 and 22, heifers, and he said we should keep them,” said well his cows would stack up against competition 2012. Photo by Grant Rolston Photography / www.grantspix.com Doug. “When I told him we had won the show, the first thing he said was ‘I told you so’.” from around western Canada. His ranch manager, The Wilfley family also has a 5,000 acres ranch The heifers are judged based on their overall volume, Toby Knudson, entered a set of three heifers, as the rules require, and those three emerged as the winners body structure, balance, and femininity, Doug explained. in the Horsethief area, which is being leased to anoth“It takes a bit of an eye, but eventually you under- er rancher, and continues to manage the Windermere amongst 13 other sets of entrants in the show. Doug’s Valley Golf Course. heifers are mainly derived from Black Angus stock, but stand what they mean by feminine,” he added.

“It’s all about growing grass, isn’t it?” quipped Doug.

Ultimately, the heifers are evaluated by how are not purebred.

By Greg Amos Pioneer Staff

The BC Services Card.

Your CareCard, and more. call for project proposals Columbia Basin Trust Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs The Regional District of East Kootenay is accepting project proposals for funding consideration from Columbia Basin Trust’s Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs for the areas of: City of Cranbrook City of Fernie City of Kimberley Village of Canal Flats Village of Radium Hot Springs

District of Sparwood District of Elkford District of Invermere Electoral Area A Electoral Area B

Electoral Area C Electoral Area E Electoral Area F Electoral Area G

Application guidelines and forms are available at: • • • •

RDEK offices in Cranbrook and Invermere The municipal office in each community RDEK website at www.rdek.bc.ca CBT website at www.cbt.org

For information about preparing your project proposal or to have an application form forwarded to you, please call Nikki Bradshaw or Shannon Moskal at 250-489-2791 or 1-888-478-7335 (toll-free).

Deadline for project proposals is 4:30 p.m. Monday, February 18, 2013. Late applications are not eligible for consideration.

Administered and managed by the Regional District of East Kootenay.

19 - 24th 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

One card. Many services. The new BC Services Card is part of government’s plan to modernize BC’s health care system. It replaces your CareCard, can be combined with your driver’s licence, and also acts as your photo ID. It’s more convenient and more secure, with enhanced features to protect your personal information. And getting yours is easy. Starting February 15, 2013, and for the next five years, you can simply enrol when renewing your driver’s licence. And even if you don’t drive, you can enrol at the nearest location where driver’s licences are issued. To learn more visit: BCServicesCard.ca

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

January 11, 2013

MLA Meeting Day Monday, January 14th Please call 1 866 870 4188 to book an appointment

Norm Macdonald MLA www.NormMacdonald.ca | norm.macdonald.mla@leg.bc.ca

GET PUMPED TODAY! Pump your Septic Tank now and‌ • Save on costly repairs • Avoid environmental damage • Keep your tank operating effectively • Extend the life of your septic tank

For more3information, call: col x 2 colour TANKS SHOULD BE PUMPED EVERY 3 YEARS

Frozen fishermen Although there were plenty of bites to be had during the opening day of ice fishing at Whiteswan Lake on Thursday, January 3rd, heat became a hot commodity. Pictured, from left to right: Jared Gauthier and Eric St. Germain of Canal Flats warm their frosted fingers.

Photo by Kristian Rasmussen

The Pioneer

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COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

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14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

YOUR MONEY

January 11, 2013

What is a closed-end fund?

Most Canadians are familiar with stocks, bonds and mutual funds. Many, however, have never heard of a closed-end fund. A closed-end fund is in fact the original structure of a mutual fund, and one of the oldest managed products in the Canadian marketplace.

What are they?

A closed-end fund is essentially a mutual fund but with some important differences. Both are a professionally managed basket of securities; however, unlike mutual funds, closed-end funds have a fixed number of shares available. The fund manager does not create new units to meet demand from investors.

Like stocks, closed-end funds are traded on a recognized stock exchange and are originally issued to the public by way of an initial offering. The money that is raised for a closed-end fund is invested according to the fund’s prospectus, often in categories such as resources, high-yield bonds, emerging markets and North American equities.

Due to active management, closed-end funds charge a small annual fee to cover the costs of administration, supervision and trading within the fund. These fees are typically lower than an open-end mutual fund but higher than some exchange-traded funds, which are passively managed. Because of their unique characteristics, some investors consider closed-end funds to be a hybrid of an exchange-traded fund and a traditional mutual fund.

Benefits One of the benefits of a closed-end fund is active management, typically with lower costs than open-end mutual funds.

Closed-end funds also enjoy the liquidity of a stock or exchange-traded fund, as they may be traded intraday, for a set price. Sellers do not have to wait until the end of the day like a mutual fund transaction.

As closed-end funds sell shares to the public only once, and subsequent trading must be conducted over a recognized stock exchange rather than from the manager, who has a fixed asset base. This means that the manager does not have to worry about cash fluctuations or forced sales due to redemption pressure within the fund.

For example, during the liquidity crisis of 2008 and 2009, many people sold their investments. As open-end mutual funds are so liquid, many investors forced their managers to sell stocks and bonds at an unfavourable time. In theory, the absence of these activities in a closedend fund could allow for improved performance.

Disadvantages Although closed-end funds may be traded intra-day, they face similar liquidity constraints as a stock in that there may be too many sellers and not enough buyers or vice versa at any given time.

In addition, some smaller closed-end funds may experience times where there are little to no trading volumes on any given day, or large bid/ask spreads. For these rea-

sons, investors with liquidity needs must be careful not to invest too much of their portfolios in closed-end funds.

Dividends As with any other investment, people must be careful when selecting closed-end funds. Those that promise an unusually high dividend that their holdings can’t possibly generate may be subject to a slow erosion of principal, not unlike their mutual fund cousins. Always look for closed-end funds with realistic expectations of yield relative to their holdings.

One example of a good closed-end fund is a brand new one called NexC Partners Corp. NexC is run by Som Seif, founder and former CEO of Claymore Investments, who grew Claymore to an astonishing 8-billion dollars in assets under management. Nex-C is investing in about 40 high quality dividend-paying North American equities and is targeting a realistic 5 per cent dividend yield.

Suitability Closed-end funds are usually best suited to wellcapitalized investors with diverse investment portfolios.

Those who lack liquidity or have short investment time frames should not consider closed-end funds.

Just as an investor must be a suitable candidate for a closed-end fund, so must an advisor. Because they trade on stock exchanges only a securities-licensed advisor, usually known as an Investment Advisor, can buy, sell or recommend closed-end funds.

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

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Ask us about how we can create a tax-efficient dividend income portfolio

GIC Rates*

as of January 7 th.

1 year 2 year 3 year 4 year 5 year

2.00% 2.10% 2.25% 2.35% 2.50%

*Rates subject to change without notice.

Sara Worley Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

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 • 15

January 11, 2013

Snowflake Fest gearing up

By Greg Amos, Pioneer Staff The fourth annual Snowflake Festival at Kinsmen Beach promises to be a delicious warm-up event leading into the Bonspiel On The Lake weekend.

For a $10 ticket, an array of seven choice restaurateurs set up in booths along the lakeside will be offering a Taste of the Valley, a food fest that requires diners to “be prepared to leave with a full stomach,” said Susan Clovechok, executive director of Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce which is hosting the event.

“Restaurateurs are really generous with their serving sizes, and there are some awesome coupons as well,” she added. Restaurants taking part include Copper Point Resort’s Elements Grill, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Quality Bakery, AG Foods’ Chef Hung, Panorama Mountain Village, the Station Pub, and the Copper City Saloon.

The evening event on Friday, January 18th, will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with kids activities getting underway at 5 p.m. The little ones can stay busy and warm thanks to

a 20 foot by 20 foot heated tent with children’s crafts inside.

The fest also includes plenty to do for the adults: curling, skating, and playing shinny on the lake under bright lights set up by Max Helmer Construction, listening to local favourite band L8 on the Home Hardware stage, staying warm around the fire pits, and capping the night off with a fireworks show to officially open the WhiteWay on Lake Windermere.

“It’s a chance to celebrate after the Christmas Break and come together in the community, and celebrate all the winter activities we have,” said Mrs. Clovechok, who estimates past Snowflake Fests have drawn 300 to 400 people.

A bonus of the event this years is the recentlycompleted amenity building at the beach, which means no one will need to use a Port-A-Potty.

The Chamber’s Snowflake Festival is the first of the seasonal outdoor events to get underway, with Panorama’s Mountain Snowflake Festival taking place from January 18th to January 20th, and the Fairmont Fire and Ice Festival to take place from January 25th through January 27th.

INVESTMENTS | RETIREMENT PLANNING | INSURANCE

Jason A. Elford, CFP®

buildingwealth@cmkwealth.com

Certified Financial Planner

250.342.5052 | Office 877.342.5052 | Toll Free 866.719.7927 | Toll Free Fax

Suite 302, 1313 – 7th Ave. PO Box 429 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 www.cmkwealth.com

Firearms Courses & Challenges Restricted, Non-Restricted and Youth Licence.

Courses and Challenges offered Call: 403-679-8122 (Mark, Invermere) Serving the Columbia Valley in Firearms Safety

Shannonbrook Boarding Kennels • • • •

Kathy and Elizabeth

Registered Scotch Collies Obedience and agility training Pet therapy Rally obedience

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Family Restaurant ~ Downtown Invermere

Property Owner’s Checklist Have you received your 2013 property assessment notice?

Follow us

If not received in your mail by January 18, call toll-free 1-866-valueBC (1-866-825-8322) If so, review it carefully Visit www.bcassessment.ca to compare other property assessments using the free e-valueBC™ service Questions? Contact BC Assessment at 1-866-valueBC or connect@bcassessment.ca Don’t forget...if you disagree with your assessment, you must file a Notice of Complaint (appeal) by January 31, 2013

Nightly feature entree $16 Tapas for 2 - $11 Local Arrowhead blonde on tap $5 - 20 oz. pints Reservations recommended Open 4 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday

www.AngusMcToogles.com

250-341-6868 • mctoogle@gmail.com The Radium Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department would like to say thank you very much for the following sponsors for their generous donations and helped to put on the activities at the park and the fireworks display on New Years’ Eve 2012:

• Radium Esso • Tourism Radium • Marg Hodson • Canadian Souvenir Sales • Mr. & Ms. Swatschina Special thanks to the Springs Golf Course for the use of the driving range. Specials thanks to the staff of Bighorn Meadows Resort for their continued support. All those who made donations at the skating rink.

We would also like to thank those individuals who provided anonymous cash donations and to those individuals we may have ommitted here.

Without your continued donations, this annual festive event wouldn’t be the same. See you all next year.

Sincerely, Radium Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

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Complete Automotive Repairs

Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash – Find our classified ad for discounts.

Phone: 250-342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

Snow Removal • Sanding • Spring Clean-up 250.270.0821 or 780-970-7040 Kari Kari&&John JohnMason Mason250-270-0821 Invermere • Panorama Invermere • Panorama

Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals • NEW SEWER • CAMERA •

Complete sewer/drain repairs • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount • Speedy service – 7 days a week

A well maintained septic system should be pumped every 2-3 years Avoid costly repairs

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357 VACATION HOMES REQUIRED TO MEET OUR GUEST DEMANDS. Are you happy with the care, attention and number of rentals your current vacation home management company is offering you? Allow us to introduce you to our “Boutique” Vacation Rental Management services that produce results.

• RENOVATIONS • PAINTING

• Weekly Home Checks • Full Yard Services • Maintenance Services

David Gulbe • Mike Bernicot

Box 1020 • Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0 • www.cabincare.ca

Columbia Chiropractic Dr. Karen Fahrni DC Dr. Meghan Haggarty ND

Certified ART® & Graston® provider #4 1008 8th Ave, Invermere BC

Call or visit online

PH: 1-888-711-ESCAPE (3722) • WEB: www.cobblestonecreek.ca

250-409-9628 • columbiavalleychiro@gmail.com

www.columbiavalleychiro.com

• Ready Mix Concrete • Commercial concrete sealer • Concrete Pumping retarder for exposed • Over 50 colours available aggregate and in stock • DELIVERED ON TIME • Concrete stamps for rent at a fair price • Full range of coloured release • Full range of sand and agents for stamping gravel products.

Phone: 250-342-6452 • 250-342-3773 • Cell: 250-270-9444 All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons

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

250-341-8501 Seniors’ Discount

• FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONING • FIREPLACES • HOT TUBS • CHEMICALS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • GAS FITTING 385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BC Phone: PO Box 86, Athalmer, BC V0A 1A0 email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com Fax:

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

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

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

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

Residential

Jesse Vader 250.341.5426

Commercial

Ken Johnson 250.341.5427

250.349.5564

Everett Frater Enterprises Phone: 250-347-9228 • Cell: 250-342-5645

Wood Blinds

January 11, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

Interior World

HERE TO SERVE YOU window fashions

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

• • • •

FAIRMONT RIDGE RENOVATION

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/ Interior/Exterior • Kitchen Renovations

250-342-5682

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

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

• New Homes • Renovations • Framing • Roofing • Custom Finishing • Timber Framing

Top Quality Interior World

Hot Shot

Snow Removal Service

Equity Repair & Maintenance Ltd.

window fashions

Ph: 250-342-5024 Cell: 250-688-5594 24 hour service

Sales • Warranty • Repairs

250-342-9207

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406 1265A Sunridge rd., Hwy 93/95 Windermere, BC • fhs@telus.net

Need Blinds?

RR#3, 954 Swansea Road, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K3 www.equityrepair.ca • rjennix@hotmail.com

GO GREEN IN 2013 WITH

Interior World

window fashions

KYLE MOLL

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406 250.341.5603

HTH@contractor.net

DESIGN & BUILD SERVICE

HERE FOR YOU, HERE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT!

JEFF BALTRUS

Licensed Residential Builder 401 Westridge View Invermere BC V0A 1K4

Cell: (250) 342-1078 Tel/Fax: (250) 342-7076 E-mail: kbuilder@shaw.ca

• • • • • • • • •

to Zero C.A.R.B. COMPLIANT CABINETRY Low Emissions

Contact Dale Elliott • 250-341-7098 www.kekulibaycabinetry.com

Residential & Industrial Vacuum Service Hydrovac (Nondestructive Excavation) Water Tankers • Vacuum Trucks Steam Cleaner/acid Cleaning Flusher Truck Oil Field Hauling Portable Toilet Rentals Septic Tank & Field Cleaning Grease Trap Cleaning • Well cleaning

Lake Auto Services

250-342-9310 Same great team, same great service.

Radium Hot Springs Esso

250-347-9726

Service is our business!

Vac Truck Services

1-855-DIG-6410

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

LAMBERT-KIPP

Lambert

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228 BOX 459 742 - 13th STREET 7553 MAIN STREET INVERMERE, BC. RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC V0A 1K0 V0A 1M0 PHONE: 250-342-3031 PHONE: 250-347-9350 FAX: 250-342-6945 FAX: 250-347-6350 Email: info@invermereinsurance.com • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

Come in and browse our giftware

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

Laura Kipp, Pharm D., Irena Sedlakova, B.Sc. (Pharm.)

Your Compounding Pharmacy Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

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

Dean Hubman

Certified Technician

250-342-3052

Toll Free: 877-342-3052

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 odysseyrestoration@telus.net

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

For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office)

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

Village of Canal Flats to hold by-election

By Pioneer Staff The Village of Canal Flats has announced that it will soon be advertising for candidates looking to fill the shoes of councillor Evence Blanchard, who resigned at the end of last year. The by-election will be held near the end of March, said Brian Woodward, chief administrative officer for the Village of Canal Flats.

“The most important thing is candidates need to be dedicated to their community, attend meetings and be

prepared to be appointed to committees and be a representative of the village,” he said.

Although by-elections are not typically known to garner large voter turnouts, citizens in the area should support the process by having their voices heard, Mr. Woodward added.

“We will get candidates signing up as soon as we start advertising.”

For more information, please contact the village office at 250-349-5462.

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

Monitoring includes Guard and keyholder service • Surveillance Systems • Home Theatre • Analog & Digital Background Sound Systems

GAS • PROPANE • DIESEL Freight & Passenger Depot

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

Rick Flowitt

(250) 347-9726

ROSS‛S POOLS & SPAS Commercial – Residential Installation – Maintenance – Repairs

Plumbing • Heating • Electrical

Rigid Plumbing Ltd. Andy Charette

Local company, local service.

250-342-6549

4890 Stoddart Creek RR#2 Invermere, BC V0A 1K2

Cell: 250-341-7727 • Fax: 250-347-6363 • poolman-911@hotmail.com Invermere and Area

• Framing • Siding • Renovations • Decks• Log Railings • Log Furniture

WINDERMERE 250-342-6805

Also offering FREE year-round pickup of unwanted vehicles

Warbrick Towing & Salvage warbrick@shaw.ca • Cell: 250-342-5851

E: rigidplumbing@hotmail.ca P: 250-341-5179

• Gel & Acrylic Nails • Coloured Gel • Nail Art Call Judy ~ 250-341-5245 • Days, Evenings, Weekends

• Furnaces • Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential • Garage Doors • Passage Doors • Truck Doors • Sun Rooms • Patio Covers • Vinyl Decking • Aluminum Railings • Gutters • Siding • Soffit • Facia • Window Capping • Renovations

stwcarpentry@live.ca • cell 250 270 0745

■ Lockout Service ■ Lake Recovery ■ 24 Hour Towing ■ Prompt Service

Quality you can see!

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

Darren Ross

Scott Wilisky

RFE ALARMS

250-342-6700 • universaldoorsandexteriors@shawbiz.ca VJ (Butch) Bishop Owner/Operator

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

• Excavators • Mini-Excavators • Bobcats • Dump Trucks • Water Trucks • Compaction Equipment • Snow Plow • Sanding Equipment • Crane Truck • Mobile Pressure Washing & Steam Cleaning • Underground Services • Site Prep & Demolition • Road Building • Land Clearing • Controlled Burning • Rock Walls • Rip Rap • Top Soil • Sand & Gravel

CONTRACT OR HOURLY MACHINE RENTALS AVAILABLE

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

January 11, 2013

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS MARY AGNES TALLIS 1946-2012

It is great sadness that the family of Mary Agnes Tallis announces her passing on December 17, 2012, at the age of 66 years.

Mary was born on February 21, 1946 in Creston, B.C. Mary touched the hearts of all who knew her. She was both kind and unselfish, always sharing everything she had with others. Mary’s passion for travel and adventure took her to many places, discovering new friendships along the way. Mary also loved to cook and enjoyed the company of her many friends. She will be greatly missed by all.

Mary will be sadly missed by her two sons Bill Tallis (Brenda Carr), and Allan Tallis and her three grandchildren Jayme, Tannia and Ryker Tallis.

Mary was predeceased by her parents Bill Swanson and Julia Pierre.

A Memorial Service in honour of Mary will be held at McPherson Funeral Service in Cranbrook, B.C., on Monday January 14, 2013 at 1:00 pm.

There will be a private family interment at a later date.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honour of Mary may do so to the Salvation Army, 533 Slater Rd NW, Cranbrook, BC V1C 4Y5.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

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

AMY DE BOER

Amy was born in 1918 in Trochu, Alberta. She met and married Tony De Boer; they were married for 52 years and had 7 children. She is survived by daughters, Dorothy Bogu sky (Don) of Lethbridge Alberta, Belva Haberstock (Dave) of Vernon, B.C., Carol Bidulka (Nick) of Armstrong B.C., Dianne Einer (Warner) of Brisco, B.C., Kim De Boer of Vancouver, B.C., and son David De Boer of Brisco, B.C..

She was predeceased by husband Tony in 1991 and daughter Shirley-Ann in 1966. Amy is survived by 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Amy and Tony moved to Vernon in 1961. They operated the Coldstream Coffee House for 22 years, making many lifelong friends.

Amy’s family, faith in God, and family gatherings at the cabin on the lake were joys in her life. We would like to thank her close family friend Leona Bird and all her other friends for their support over the years. Amy will be remembered by many for her sweet spirit and continuous smile.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memory donation of choice. A memorial service and burial will be held at Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, Vernon, B.C. on May 11th, 2013.

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Alcoholics Anonymous. If alcohol is causing problems or conflict in your life, AA can help. All meetings are at 8 p.m. For more information, please call 250-342-2424.

Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday (closed), and Wednesday at the BC Service Building, South End – 624 4th St., Invermere. Radium Friendship Group: Friday at the Catholic Church, East Side of Main St. With the exception of Tuesday, all meetings are open.

Narcotics Anonymous meeting now available. Thursdays at 8 p.m. Call 250-342-1071 for more info.

Jeers to the locals who fail to stop at stop signs in and around town.

Just because you have gotten away with it before doesn’t mean it disappears! Stop!

Cheers to the office staff at Invermere Medical Clinic. You are the best in the Valley. Thank you for going above and beyond for all of us. We love your smiles.

Big cheers to the sisters at Canterbury Flowers in Invermere for helping us get our giant fish filled and airborne in time for Christmas. Your customer service is excellent and we appreciated all your help! Oh, and the fish was a big hit!

Jeers to the public who complain about Mainroads. Call your MLA or the owners of Mainroads. If more of the public did this, our guys would have more support and maybe improvements can be made in this large area that they have to cover.

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 250-3428255.

S IN MEMORIAM S

October 16, 1918 December 20, 2012

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our mother Amy De Boer on December 20, 2012, at Invermere hospital at the age of 94.

She has resided for the last 2 and a half years with daughter and son-in-law, Dianne and Warner Einer.

• • • •

RON TRAVERSE 1941-2008 Truly missed by family and friends.

LOST AND FOUND LOST: wooden toboggan (3 grandkid size) left on Kinsmen beach right beside the concession booth. If found, please call Diane at 250-342-3134.

LOST: gold ring at Mark’s Work Warehouse in December. Had three stones, missing one. 250-3425210.

CHEERS & JEERS Jeers to those who decided against a second deer cull. How dare you! You understand there are concerned citizens willing to take this into their own hands, right?

What’s more humane? Give your head a shake.

Cheers to Gary and Linda. It’s neighbours like you who make living in a small town worthwhile.

Thanks TD and ED. Cheers to the Mainroad employees in this part of our valley who try to do the best they can under some tough situations! Get your facts straight before chastising them!

After all, it is winter shift.

S OBITUARY S JANICE GAIL DUNLOP

January 21, 1944- January 5, 2013 With her sons by her side, Jan passed away peacefully Saturday, January 5th from a long courageous battle with cancer.

Jan was born in Invermere, B.C. where she raised her boys and worked at Home Hardware for many years in the building supplies and then in the garden centre as she loved gardening.

Jan was survived by her sons Mark, Bruce (Jennifer) and Scott (Julia), her grandchildren Christopher, Sierra, Cooper, Ryker and Ryan, and her sisters Beverly (Tim) Thygesen and Karen (Warner) Stills.

Jan was predeceased by her parents Bill and Jesse Lockhart and her brothers Alan and Gerald. A celebration of life will be held January 26 at the Invermere Legion, 4 p.m. Memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Jeers to the oversensitive doors at a local credit union, which fly open anytime someone walks by.

Do you think maybe it needs an adjustment?

Cheers to James Reimer! You have put in a phenomenal effort at Bud’s since stepping into the management position, putting in more hours and effort than anyone! You’re as amazing as your moustache. Keep up the amazing work! Love, Rob and all the staff.

Jeers to the first week of January, AKA deer feeding season in Invermere! With so many Christmas trees discarded in front yards, it’s a deer feeding frenzy. If the DOI is serious about deer feeding bylaws, there is much work to be done about education and awareness.

Jeers to the servers who demand tips. Tipping is a custom, not a tax.

I am not going to tip for mediocre food or poor service. If you are unhappy with your wage and rely on tips, maybe you need a different job.

Cheers to our neighbours, Todd Logan and Dave Dixon for shoveling our driveway every time the snow falls! We couldn’t wish for better neighbours.

Jeers to the people who think it is OK to stop in the middle of the road on Radium hill on a slippery day to video the sheep. This is very dangerous for everyone.

Vehicles had to go around you into oncoming traffic or they would’ve slid right into you. Unsafe, unkind ,and most of all, stupid.

ANNOUNCEMENT

NOTICE!

Gerry’s Gelati is pleased to announce that we are now roasting our own coffee under the brand name, Stolen Church Coffee Co. To celebrate our new coffee, and because Gerry is on vacation - for the rest of January get a large size coffee for the price of a small!

Due to vacation, Gerry’s Gelati will be closed Sunday, January 13, Thursday, January 17, and Sunday, January 20th. We will be open all other days for our regular hours of 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and will return to 7 days a week after those dates.

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

cheers & jeers

cheers & jeers

storage

suite for rent

house for rent

condo for rent

Cheers to Happy Tails Dog Walking Service! You guys have helped us out so much and saved the day a few times with short-notice walks!

Thanks so much. We love you guys and so does our dog!

Jeers to the sponsors of the upcoming Pond Hockey Tournament for allowing posters with their business logos to be taped on the light stands in Invermere. It is against the town bylaw Section 7 7.1 g for a good reason. Not a good way of advertising, and you should remove them. Cheers to the return of the Pond Hockey Tourney!

NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climate-controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

Invermere: brand new 2-bdrm, 1-bath, fully-furnished basement suite with private entrance. 6 appliances, N/P, N/S. $1,250/ month, utilities included. $625 D.D. References required. Available immediately. 250-342-7323.

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

Many cheers to Diana and Kevin, owners/operators of Fairmont Village Gift Shop for your continued, generous support with helping ICAN shelter the abandoned, stray, unwanted, and lost companion animals in the Valley. Your support is so valuable and so appreciated!

We thank you! ICAN volunteers.

Cheers to all the small business owners in Invermere! You give up vacations and time with your families around the holidays so that visitors and locals can have places to go and things to buy. Without you, this community would not survive! Thank you.

A big cheers to VJ Bishop and crew for doing the necessary repairs on the water main for William’s Manufactured Homes Park on Boxing Day. It was much appreciated!

Cheers to the Global Animal Lovers Society for all your great work volunteering and fostering the animals. Thank you for all the pet friends you have brought in that many of us wouldn’t have without you. And thank you from the pets.

Cheers to Jake the Wonder Dog. Jeers to guys who complain about their girlfriends getting cold feet.

It’s winter - what do you expect?

Cheers to Stephanie S. for the lovely surprise festive spray. Sorry, I lost your phone number. MS. Colossal cheers to Melva, Becky, Dan, and Scott for standing up so we could sit down. It wouldn’t have been a party without you! Thanks from Higher Ground and Radium Esso staff members!

Cheers to the person who found my roll of stamps in the snow outside the Post Office and took them inside to be returned to me! Thank you!

Cheers to Linda and Brad at Home Hardware. Always friendly and helpful.

Jeers to the RCMP for making light of distracted driving while “sipping on a fresh, hot Tim Horton’s coffee.”

This is not a good example for valley drivers.

Cheers to the owner of the icefishing shack that is painted like Darian Durant’s #4 jersey. Go Riders!

Belated cheers to the DOI for the decorative banners depicting winter sports on the light poles.

One question though: how come the biggest group of winter tourists, the downhill skiers, aren’t represented?

Jeers to the local carpenter who took seven years to propose to his super-hot girlfriend. Better late than never. Congratulations!

Cheers to whoever made the curling rink on the lake by Timber Ridge. Nice touch with painted rings and real “rocks.” We had fun!

Cheers to Conrad at Accurate Towing for getting us out of the park in November. Quick and amazing service.

Jeers to two managers who need an attitude adjustment and cheers to their patient staff members.

Cheers to Tiffany for introducing me to the Ideal Protein Diet. I love my new body figure.

Cheers to the local businesses in this valley. I was successful in doing 97% of my Christmas shopping locally. Way to be competitive in prices as well as hospitality.

Rolodex.

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

commercial space For lease: 1,200 sq. ft. finished office space. Available immediately.

Call Scott at 250-342-5758.

For lease: newly renovated, beautiful office spaces. Street level. From 250 sq. ft. to 1,200 sq. ft., air-conditioned. Available immediately. Panache Building across from the A&W. Call 250-3425805.

Beautiful, 1,200 sq. ft. luxury apartment. Must be seen! 2-bdrm, 2-bath, 5 appliances, N/S, N/P. $1,000/month + hydro and utilities. References required.

Available immediately. Email panacheinteriors@telus.net or 250342-5805.

Large, renovated 2-bdrm suite close to schools. Large yard, insuite laundry. $650/month + utilities. 18thstrental@gmail.com.

shared accommodation

Windermere: Upper Hilltop Road.

1-bdrm walkout basement suite. $675/month, utilities included.

250-342-3790.

Private room with cable, phone, laundry access, internet, and all utilities included, $400/month + $200 D.D., N/P. 1-866-222-0325.

Hillcrest Apartments. 1-bdrm apartments, $600/month; 2-bdrm apartments, $800/month. Includes all utilities. 250-341-1182.

Invermere: furnished room for rent in Westside Park. Available immediately. Call 250-688-7787.

Invermere: 2-bdrm, 1-bath suite. $850/month, all utilities included.

W/D, N/S, N/P. 250-341-1182.

suite for rent CARRIAGE COURT APARTMENTS! Conveniently located behind Sobeys within walking distance to downtown. 2-bdrm townhouse units, outside entrance. Sliding glass doors open onto balcony, overlooking private courtyard.

Fireplace and W/D included in each unit. Long-term preferred, N/P. Utilities not included. $750/month.

Available immediately. 250-2700729.

Radium: modern 2-bdrm, lowerlevel suite. W/D, D/W. $850/month, utilities included. 250-342-3790.

2-bdrm (upper floor) deluxe apartment. Available immediately for long-term rental in Canal Flats.

Newly renovated, fridge, stove, W/D, perfect for couples or 2 roommates, N/P, N/S. $650/month + utilities + D.D. Call after 6 p.m.

250-342-3345.

Invermere Centre apartments.

1-bdrm, 4-piece bath, central location, laundry on-site, N/P, N/S, 1-year lease. Available immediately. Call Sharon, 250-6881365.

Invermere: 2-bdrm basement suite + den. Wood stove, W/D, 1,100 sq. ft., private yard. $700/month + utilities. References required, no partiers. Available immediately.

250-342-5332.

house for rent Windermere: 1-bdrm house. Cozy and clean, $750/month + utilities.

250-342-3790.

Edgewater: 2-bdrm mobile home with basement and large addition. Wood/electric furnace, utilities not included. N/P, available immediately. 250-347-9500 or email hilltop1@telus.net .

INVERMERE

2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom townhouse, Blackforest Village. $895 + utilities.

3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom Westside Park family home, close to schools. $1,300 + utilities.

RADIUM

2 bedroom + den, 2 bathroom Sable Ridge Condo. Furnished and equipped. $1,000 + utilities.

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, Copper Horn Towne Condos, granite counters and stainless appliances. $900 + utilities

FAIRMONT

Beautiful executive home.

Spectacular views and creek in back yard. $1,500 + utilities.

INVERMERE: Lake Windermere Pointe starting at $800/month for unfurnished; $1,250 and up for furnished.

Pool, underground parking, elevator and much more.

CASTLE ROCK: Luxurious condo, 2 master suites, fantastic view, garage. $1,250 plus utilities.

RADIUM RESORT: Furnished 2 bedroom condo at $1,250 plus utilities.

SEASONAL

FAIRMONT SOUTH: Luxury two bedroom furnished home at Spirits Reach.

Call for information.

www.gdpm.ca

Contact Eric Redeker 250-342-5914

Fully furnished and equipped 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos in Lake Windermere Pointe and Heron Point from $1,250 inclusive.

or call Ben Green at 250-688-0362 for more info.

FirstChoiceRentals.ca

Windermere: newer 2-bdrm, 2-bath with garage on 11 acres. $1,000/month. Mark, 403-5190252.

2-bdrm condo near Sobeys. N/S, N/P, with washer and dryer. Quiet folks only need apply. $650/month.

250-342-6255.

Invermere: 3-bdrm house close to hospital and downtown. Quiet location suitable for families.

Available immediately until May 2013. $1,200/month. 250-3423790.

2-bdrm, 2-full bath, in Radium.

Access to pool and hot tub.

Underground parking. $950/month including utilities, N/S, small pets negotiable. Available February 1st.

250-270-0377.

condo for rent

Akiskinook Resort: 1-bdrm condo, fully furnished, 6-appliances, equipped indoor pool and hot tub. $675/month includes cable. 403281-3991.

Canal Flats: 2-bdrm, 1.5bath condo with in-suite laundry. 1,000 sq. ft. of beautiful, comfortable, living space in quiet neighbourhood. $700/month + utilities. Available immediately.

Call 403-873-8158 or e-mail canalcondo@live.ca .

Serious inquiries only.

Large 1-brdm, fully furnished on golf course in Radium. Very quiet and private. $775/month, includes heat, hydro, cable, internet. N/S. Phone 250-427-4997.

Pinewood: 2-bdrm, 2-bath, unfurnished in Radium. AC, W/D and underground parking. N/S, N/P. $800/month, includes utilities.

Available immediately. 403-2853417.

homes for sale 2-bdrm mobile home situated at #2 Green Acres Mobile Home Park. All appliances. 8628 Eacrett Road, Radium. $45,000.

250-342-6007 for details.

misc. for sale Local, free-range, natural, gourmet Berkshire pork for sale.

Government inspected. Cut, wrapped and ready for your freezer.

Hams, roasts, sausages, bacon and more! Call 250-347-6868.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

January 11, 2013

misc. for sale

vehicles for sale

fitness

Hay and Greenfeed, round bales. $30 - $80/bale depending on quality. Elkhorn Ranch, 250-3420617.

1999 Toyota Corolla. White, 4-door sedan, 269,000 kms. 2011 new winter tires, windshield and wipers new car-starter battery. Regular maintenance, in good running condition. $1,500 OBO. 250-3426829.

ZUMBA FITNESS TRY A NEW EXERCISE REGIME FOR THE NEW YEAR! ZUMBA TONING! Enjoy a great cardio and toning workout with a Latin flavour. Classes start Monday, January 7th, 2013 and continue through to June!

All classes start at 5:30 p.m. at J.A. Laird School gymnasium, Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays. Enjoy unlimited classes for only $50/ month or $10 drop-in. For more information or class times, please contact Julie Parent at 250-3415474. Email her at japarent@telus. net. Web site: www.julieparent. zumba.com or check her out on Facebook at Zumba Fitness – Julie Parent.

Couch with matching love seat in impeccable condition from smokefree home. Will deliver. $450 OBO. Call 250-341-7113.

firewood Fir firewood, split and delivered $200/cord. 250-342-5413.

vehicles for sale 2004 Cavalier. 2-door, black, 5-speed. 185,000 kms, alloy rims, winter tires, 2 extra rims with tires.

Great commuter, 40+ MPG. $3,500 OBO. 250-341-8578.

2008 Mazda B4000 truck with 4x4.

Low mileage, only 43,000 kms.

Automatic, 6-cylinder, loaded. $13,900. 250-341-5971.

fitness FITNESS PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS! Personal Training in Your Home.

Improve day-to-day activities and balance.

FREE fitness assessments and consults. www.fitness4life.tv Hayley: 250-688-0024 Kate: 250-688-0221 Small Group Fitness also available.

Please email classified ads to info@cv-pioneer.com

Rockies West Realty Independently Owned and Operated

492 Highway 93/95, Invermere, BC

Kim Collens

Representative

toll free: 1.877.342.3427 cell: 250.342.1671

kim@rockieswest.com www.kimcollens.com

Recipe Of The Week EASY TURKEY TETRAZZINI

1 (8 oz) Egg Noodles, cooked 2 tablespoons Butter 1 can Mushrooms, sliced 1 teaspoon Salt 1/8 teaspoon Pepper

2 cups cooked Turkey, chopped 1 can Cream of Celery Soup 1 cup Sour Cream ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes; drain.

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees.

Melt butter in a large heavy skillet and sauté mushrooms for 1 minute; season with salt and pepper.

Stir in turkey, soup and sour cream.

Place cooked noodles in a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Pour sauce mixture evenly over the top.

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until sauce is bubbling .

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

Dryer Vent and Furnace Cleaning & inspections. Call AQUAIR today!

250-342-5089.

Water treatment & 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 .

Guitar lessons. Available most evenings and weekends. Call Emily at 250-409-4104

MLS

K201652

Most experienced.

Best price, period!

Gift Certificates Available 250-342-5102

www.kimberleyrae.ca Kimberley-Rae Sanderson

Home Building and Renos Chuck Newhouse Builders 250-342-3637 chucknew@telus.net .

Buy a Gift Certificate & Receive 20% Off “Amazing service! I shopped around and it was the best price.

Shannon selected the perfect product and I love my new blinds.

Thank you Shannon!“ - Leslie Shannon’s Blinds & Designs 250-342-5749 Expires December 21.

Covering the Valley – One Window At A Time Have you purchased a Mac computer and need a tutor to learn the basics? Making the move to a Mac can be an intimidating experience. I will show you the basics and show you how to get more value from your system. Basic tutoring session, $30/hour. Call Emily at 250-409-4104.

Ready for that New Year makeover?

Book with Teresa @ Hair Tricks and check out the deals in My Girlfriend’s Closet! 250-688-0388.

(250) 341-1083 golocal@originbrand.ca build your foundation

help wanted Have Fun and Earn Extra Income.

What’s better than extra money?

FREE JEWELLERY! As a Silpada Representative selling Sterling Silver Jewellery, you can earn 30% commission on your sales, expensepaid trips and free jewellery. Why not get paid to party for a living?

Call 341-5956 and start your jewellery business now.

Nobody does it better!

Makes me feel sad for the rest.

N E W S PA P E R

250-341-6299 • info@cv-pioneer.com

...look for the red door behind the Invermere Dry Cleaners!

t. men p o l eve s. tity d website . n e Id fce ctive Effe ntown o Dow

WOW! Best Buy in Fairmont!

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services

Home Of The Week

Spacious bungalow nestled in the trees with sun porch, great room with stone fireplace, fully finished lower walk-out and double garage. This one is worth a look! . ®

services

We are hiring for the following position.

Full/Part-time Night Auditor/Front Desk Send resumes via fax 250-341-4001 or email afournier@copperpointresort.com Real Storage, one of Western Canada’s fastest growing self storage providers is seeking business minded trendsetters to join our team.

Our success begins with and endures because of our people. At Real Storage, we seek out talented people and are committed to meeting their career needs as well as offering an environment of empowerment and innovation. Our current expansion into Windermere has opened opportunities for the following position: Storage Consultant: A customer services and sales driven professional who enjoys a team environment, you will be challenged with delivering products and services that consistently exceed our customer’s expectations.

This challenging part-time position requires an enthusiastic individual who possesses great organizational and communication skills in addition to being team oriented.

Real Storage offers excellent compensation package, uniform allowance, flexible hours and ongoing training for your professional development. Real Storage in an equal opportunity employer.

Please submit your resume and salary expectations to

Real Storage LP Attention: Human Resources Email: careers@realstorage.ca or info@realstorage.ca

health & wellness

QI GONG AND TAI CHI • Chinese exercises to promote healing, fitness and anti-aging • Practices of moving meditation to promote good health and well-being.

• Classes are ongoing and beginners are welcome.

• Ask about the new year schedule and register.

For more information please contact: Betty Newton 250-342-6343 or newtonhome@shaw.ca

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

New local chair for school board

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff

The Windermere School Zone has added a veteran to its roster as the new chair of the Board of Education.

Jim Jenkinson, who has been involved with the Windermere board as both a trustee and vice-chair for the past seven years, was elected to the position of chair by his fellow trustees at the December 11th, 2012 board meeting.

“I am looking forward to supporting the board, our senior staff and the entire school district,” Mr. Jenkinson said. “We deliver a first class educational program for our students and we are able to ensure that our staff are well trained and supported in what they do.”

His experience teaching from Kindergarten up to the BOARD BOSS — Jim Jenkinson is the new chair post-secondary level and his role representing the Rocky of the Rocky Mountain School District 6 board.

Mountain School District on the B.C. School Trustees As- Photo by Greg Amos sociation’s Provincial Council, make him the the right canDeclining student enrollment will be one his main didate for the position, said Mr. Jenkinson. issues to face.

“I have been able to step outside of our school district “There is less ability to deliver a full program when and visit other districts and talk to trustees and educators across the province,” he said. “It’s given me a perspective you don’t have the student numbers that other larger that our district is doing extremely well when you com- school districts have,” he added. “If you end up with a pare both our results and our financial situation with oth- situation where you have 5,000 students there is much more student choice because you employ more teachers er districts in the province.”

Grants now available

By Pioneer Staff

The Columbia Basin Trust has announced more than $1 million in funding for community-based initiatives in the East Kootenays this year, through the Community Infrastructure and Affected Areas Grants — though only the infrastructure grants will apply in the Columbia Valley.

“The goals and objectives of the program are specifically aimed at providing Columbia Basin Trust funds to communities through local government partners to support projects which are identified as priorities within their communities,” said Shannon Moskal, community services manager for the Regional District of East Kootenay.

The Columbia Valley will receive over $184,000 of the community infrastructure grant money, and applications for funding must be submitted by a registered non-profit organization and used for meeting community and public needs. Those looking for grants in the private sector must be sponsored by a regis-

tered non-profit organization and be able to demonstrate that their plans will benefit the entire community.

“These programs provide organizations with an opportunity to receive much needed funding for projects that greatly benefit and enhance their communities,” Ms. Moskall added.

In 2012, the program awarded close to $170,000 in funds. Last year’s grants included $10,700 for the Windermere District Farmers Institute and Livestock Association’s Abattoir project, $2,250 for the Columbia Valley Swim Club’s timing equipment, $6,500 for the Columbia River Greenways Alliance’s Copper Point Trail and $8,500 for the insulation of the floor and ceiling at the Wilmer Community Hall.

Applications to receive funding are accepted until February 18th.

Projects are approved or denied by June 7th and must be completed by May 31, 2014. Grant forms are available at the Cranbrook and Columbia Valley regional district offices. For more information, please visit www. cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

and there are more students enrolled in programs.”

One of the first items on the agenda at the Windermere Zone board meeting of January 8th will be steps to address the provincial government’s requests under the recently introduced Cooperative Gains Mandate, Mr. Jenkinson added. The new mandate comes as school boards across B.C. negotiate a new contract with staff members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees.

“The government has just asked boards for possible submissions for savings that might become part of the bargaining process for CUPE under cooperative gains,” he added. “They are looking for savings from school districts that could be passed along or part of the negotiations with CUPE.” The board will meet to look at ways of finding savings in ways that do not impact student learning.

“We couldn’t cut bus routes or lay off teachers, because that would impact delivery of programming.”

Examples of applicable cost savings include purchasing equipment with other school districts to receive bulk discounts, or changing the way a district banks in order to reduce fees, he added.

For more information on how to get involved with education in the valley in the new year, please contact the district administration at 250-342-9243 or your school.

Watch your mailbox for the newest

Continuing Education Guide We offer a great selection of classes

Courses in January n Scrapbooking 101 n Graduated Licensing n OFA 1 n Snowshoe Fitness n Spanish Intermediate n Taking Better Photos 101 n Intro to Computers n Culinary Adventures n Sculpting Classes & Life Drawing n Sewing courses for Adults & Kids n Home Beauty classes from head to toe n Intro Simply Accounting

Check your mailbox for the new CE guide!

Contact the Invermere campus today:

250.342.3210

www.cotr.bc.ca/Invermere

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

January 11, 2013

Valley Churches

FAITH

An epiphany reflection

By Laura Hermakin Reverend Christ Church Trinity We are in the season of Epiphany. Epiphany means manifestation, or, unveiling or revealing. The idea is that an epiphany occurs when something is revealed to us that was previously hidden. There are several Biblical epiphanies recorded. The coming of the magi to the Christ child is one. It is seen as the first revealing of the Christ child to the gentiles, a manifestation of things to come, when the word of God would be offered directly to others and not only to the Jews.

The Transfiguration is another epiphany. The Transfiguration is that other-worldly experience when Jesus took three of his disciples up on the mountain and was transformed before their very eyes, when they saw him in a blinding white visage talking to Moses and Elijah and heard the very voice of God telling them that Jesus was God’s own Son, and, most importantly, ordering them to “Listen to him!” Now, there was an epiphany if there ever was one! If it happened to any of us, any doubts we had about Jesus would be blown away.

There is another type of epiphany and that is the

epiphany that occurs in peoples’ hearts. It is that self enlightening “Ah Ha,” moment when something which was hidden from us becomes clear, when we realize some truth that had eluded us, perhaps for years. An epiphany is that moment of bright clarity when the fog drifts away, the unknown suddenly becomes known and the baffling becomes obvious. Epiphanies for most of us are, unfortunately, rare events.

The truth is that most of us don’t experience mindblowing epiphanies in our lives. When we do experience epiphanies we might not recognize them as such until long after the fact — when we finally wake up and realize that God was working in our lives doing miracles by the dozen that we were too blind, distracted or too turned off and tuned out to see.

In the whisper of an angel to a young woman-child, God sent Jesus to be the word – some find that word in church worship, others on a mountain trail or sitting by a flowing stream. I find it both in communal worship and in walking for hours on the beach. One of the reasons that Christians pull themselves out of a warm bed on a cold winter morning and go to church is that, deep down, they know they need something that they cannot express. We are able to respond to God from the very fabric of our being because God dwells in us and that is truly a miraculous gift!

I pray that we all will know the miracle that we are during this blessed season of Epiphany. Thanks be to God.

Anglers abode “Ling Lodge” is one of about 15 ice fishing shacks now laying claim to an offshore patch of Lake Windermere near the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. It shares the fishing zone with a variety of huts, including one painted like a Saskatchewan Roughriders jersey, and others bearing names like “Big Bertha”, “Chateau Rainbow” and “Goons”.

Photo by Greg Amos

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, January 6th, 10:30 a.m. Worship and Life Instruction “I am: The Good Shepherd,” Pastor Trevor ministering.

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

7 p.m.: “Sing and Celebrate at L.W.A.C. All are welcome to join us in song for an evening of faith, food and fellowship.

Pastor Trevor Hagan • 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org Windermere Valley Shared Ministry ANGLICAN-UNITED 9:30 a.m. God’s Breakfast Club for Children and Youth 10:30 a.m.: Worship at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere.

Reverend Laura Hermakin 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 www.wvsm.ca 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.

Saturday: 7 p.m. and Sunday: 9 a.m. at Canadian Martyrs’ Church in Invermere.

Sunday: 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Radium.

Father Gabriel • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 250-342-6167 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Worship services every Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. Fraser Coltman • 1-866-426-7564 Radium Christian Fellowship 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

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

January 11, 2013

Invermere-area property values dip

By Greg Amos, Pioneer Staff While residential property values are declining slightly for most homeowners in the Columbia Valley this year, recently released BC Assessment figures show Windermere again boasts the most expensive home in the Kootenays.

With a value of $5.12 million, the property found at 1251 Lake Drive proves the old adage that real estate value is all about location, as the vast majority of the topend properties in the Kootenays are located along Lake Windermere, explained Kootenay Region area assessor Bradley Lane.

While Invermere’s top property (at 1734 3rd Avenue on Fort Point) has risen to $4.93 million, the district’s overall assessment base, more than 90 per cent of which is residential, has decreased from $966 million last year to $961 million this year. That leaves the district with $5 million less in asesssed value for taxation, and the average single family home value sitting at $313,000.

“Most homes in the Invermere area have declined slightly in value compared to last year’s assessment roll,” said Mr. Lane, who noted select higher-end properties in Invermere and most in Panorama saw increases.

In Panorama, the average home increased to $694,000 from $674,000.

More than 14,000 property owners in Invermere and surrounding areas have recently received their 2013

LAKE LUXURY — This mostly-complete lakefront home built by Quiniscoe Homes at at 1733 2nd Avenue on Fort Point is valued at $2.94 million, according to recently released BC Assessment figures.

Photo by Greg Amos assessment notices, which reflect values as of July 1, 2012. In the Village of Radium Hot Springs, assessments dipped by $32 million, as its roll decreased from $394 million to $362 million, decreasing the average single family home from $334,000 to $319,000.

The Village of Canal Flats saw the most significant decrease in taxable assessments, with a 9.2 per cent drop from $141 million last year to $128 million this year.

The average home value dropped from $202,000 to $158,000, which will likely mean a tax rate increase for

the village to keep revenues up.

“Its fair to say Canal Flats saw some of the largest decreases in the Kootenays,” said Mr. Lane. “What we found is land values in particular were showing significant decreases, with the exception of the waterfront areas, so the numbers on average are probably even a little more dramatic than nine per cent.”

“The village has ability to control its mill rates by property class, so if it’s their desire, the tax dollar amounts coming in won’t have to change,” he added.

The average home value in the Westside Road area (beyond Inveremere’s boundaries) dropped from $392,000 to $382,000. On the east shore of the lake, the average lakefront home increased to $1.47 million from $1.40 million. In Windermere, the average home value dropped from $602,000 to $566,000.

“Property owners who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2012 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact our office as indicated on their notice as soon as possible in January,” said Lane. “If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a notice of complaint

by January 31st for an independent review by a property assessment review panel.”

To view a list of the most valuable properties in the Kootenays, go to www.goo.gl/Cj307 .

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