vol10issue9

March 1, 2013 Vol. 10/Issue 9

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 March 1, 2013

P I NEER

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UNTAMED APPETITES The Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun Club’s annual Wild Game Banquet drew hordes of outdoor enthusiasts with a rich feast of wild meats and a cache of items up for both live and silent auctions. Hunters young and old won awards for top trophy game taken in the valley. For more photos, see page 17.

3 END OF AN ERA

8 IDITAROD ADVENTURE

28

Photo by Greg Amos

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2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

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Announcement

Alan and Kathy Wilson are pleased to announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of their son, David Wilson to the Hon Annabel Howard, daughter of Lord and Lady Howard of Rising, Castle Rising, Norfolk, UK.

Panorama panopticon

The couple will be joined in matrimony on June 8th, 2013 at Castle Rising, Norfolk, UK.

Lordy Lordy

One year after a Google crew cruised the slopes at Panorama Mountain Village and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort last February, Google Maps now offers three-dimensional tours courtesy of the Street View feature.

“Google came out with a snowmobile that was equipped with a rotating camera that was mounted on the snowmobile,” explained Panorama marketing coordinator Jamie Hurschler. “One of our snowmaking staff drove the snowmobile, because they know the mountain better.”

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort marketing manager Colleen McKee said the sled looked “like something that arrived from space.”

“The rotating multi-lens camera sat on top of a high-tech snowmobile which they had to drive in a very planned manner,” she explained. The custom Google-sled features a five-foot high tower behind the snowmobile driver, containing a computer system as well as an eight-sided camera that takes images

Look Who’s

Forty!

Happy Birthday Old-timer!

from above the driver’s head level. It took a full day of sledding to capture most of Panorama’s 120 trails, said Mr. Hurschler.

Users of Google Maps were previously afforded the Street View feature along populated roads, and now have the opportunity to view 360-degree visuals on the ski hills.

That will allow visiting skiers and snowboarders from around the globe to take a tour of the hills, and will give tourists the ability to bring some of their experience home.

“Google Maps is dedicated to building the world’s most comprehensive, accurate and usable map. With this ambition in mind, we’ve ventured to far flung places (like Cambridge Bay, Nunavut), we’ve gone under water in the Great Barrier Reef, and, yes, we’ve ventured down ski hills around the globe, helping users navigate to the nearest chairlift or the chalet,” added Google Canada’s communications and public affairs manager Aaron Brindle.

Photo submitted by Panorama Mountain Village

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March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Grasic wins two titles at ski championships

By Dan Walton, Pioneer Staff Windermere Valley Ski Club member Martin Grasic displayed double dominance at the Under-18 Canadian Championships of alpine skiing in Ontario, last weekend, winning both the slalom and overall titles, which earned him a first place finish overall.

Seventeen-year-old Martin, who skis on the B.C. Alpine Team, returned victorious from Osler Bluff, Ontario as the first-place slalom finisher and a strong skier in the giant slalom (GS) event that wrapped up on Saturday, February 23rd.

“I was very happy to win the overall at the U18 nationals in Collingwood (town near Osler Bluff) this week,” Grasic said after Sunday’s success. “It’s the first time I have won an award that requires this level of consistency, so I think it was a big step forward for me.”

After qualifying as a top contender on the B.C. Alpine Club, then qualifying for the final round at the championships, Grasic competed in the two-run final round, where he registered the shortest overall time, a combined 1:44.41 — only seventeen-thousandths of a

second faster than the second-place finisher.

“He has a super touch — he really knows how hard to apply the edges to make lots of speed,” said Helmut Spiegl, Martin’s former head coach at the Windermere Valley Ski Club. “He puts just the right amount of pressure to make the skis go fast.”

When Grasic can find the time, he still enjoys practicing at Panorama, as Mr. Spiegl explained.

“He phones up and he’s very diligent, very keen, smart kid — and also personality wise, super polite. He’s always appreciative of the extra training he gets here.”

Asked about the challenges facing an out-of-town skier in Ontario, Mr. Spiegl said the snow creates the largest obstacle, as the dynamics of slopes in Ontario isn’t comparable to the mountainous ski hills in B.C. “Every snow is different; you have to adjust to the local snow conditions, and that’s probably the most challenging part coming from the west going to the east,” he said. “We often have softer conditions here because of the natural snow we have here mixed in with the manmade [snow] in Panorama; it doesn’t always create the same hard and icy surface you find out east.”

GREAT GRASIC — Invermere’s Martin Grasic is riding high after winning both the slalom and overall titles at the recent national under-18 alpine skiing championships.

Submitted photo

Fire rips through popular Panorama lodge

By Dan Walton, Pioneer Staff Panorama’s 1000 Peaks Lodge suffered major damage after a fifth-floor fire burned through the top of the building.

The Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service became aware of the blaze shortly after 1 a.m. on Wednesday, February 27th. They responded with emergency workers from Panorama, Windermere and Invermere.

“The fire originated on the top (fifth) floor in one unit, which spread through the roof and virtually

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burnt through the whole top floor,” Windermere Fire Department Chief Jim Miller told The Pioneer. “That portion is destroyed.”

Between 10 and 12 units have been lost to the fire, as estimated by Miller. Fortunately, registered guests were fully accounted for and no injuries were reported.

Although a thorough investigation has yet to be conducted, Miller says the cause of the flames didn’t seem suspicious during the initial sweep.

However, “considerable” water damage occurred from the fifth floor down to the basement, he said.

The fifth-floor fire could have caused greater

damage had it not been for proper equipment.

“Big huge building, very tall. We had Panorama’s ladder truck there which was a godsend,” Miller said.

“Without that particular piece of equipment, it would have been virtually impossible to maintain as well as we did.”

The fire remained active with flames until about 6 a.m., Miller said, and crews remained on scene past press deadline.

Guests who were staying in the 1000 Peaks Lodge during the fire were quickly evacuated to the Great Hall.

Alumni 50th Celebration!

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

RCMP Report

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March 1, 2013

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• On Thursday, February 21st, Columbia Valley RCMP detachment members were advised of an adult male being aggressive with staff at the Best Western Invermere Inn. The man made a threat towards the staff.

A description of the suspect’s vehicle was provided. A 34-year-old male from Calgary was arrested for threats and was escorted back to the Best Western. Staff at the hotel were satisfied with a warning since the male was in the process of departing Invermere.

• On Thursday, February 21st, the Columbia Valley detachment and the East Kootenay highway patrol were advised of an erratic driver on Highway 95 north of Edgewater. A 44-year-old male from Alberta was stopped and although he had been consuming some alcohol, he blew well under the limit. It was determined from the driver’s behaviour that drugs may have been involved.

The driver was given a 24-hour suspension and his vehicle was towed and impounded for 24 hours.

• On Thursday, February 22nd at 1:34 a.m., a detachment member checked a 1991 Chevrolet pickup truck near 8th Avenue and 15th Street in Invermere. The 43-year-old driver from Edgewater displayed signs of having consumed liquor and was given the ASD demand. The driver blew a fail. The vehicle was impounded for 30 days and his licence was suspended for 90 days. The driver made a comment to the officer that the police should go after real criminals.

That is the number two response we often hear. “I’ll have your job” is the number one comment.

• On Thursday, February 22nd, at 6:30 p.m., the detachment received a complaint of mischief to a fence in the Wilmer Pontoon Road area. Having consumed some alcohol, a neighbour took exception to a fence another neighbour was building and damaged the fence.

Police suggested some ways to resolve the matter, and the owner of the fence did not pursue charges.

• On Thursday, February 23rd at 12:23 a.m., detachment members attended at Panorama Mountain Village to assist security personnel, who were dealing with a 22-yearold male who caused a disturbance and attempted to assault one of the security staff. The male, from Saskatoon, was intoxicated at the time. He was arrested for breaching a court condition when it was determined that he was not to consume any liquor.

• On Thursday, February 23rd at 8:15 a.m., the detachment received a complaint of a suspicious male lying

down on the side of the road on Highway 93/95 near Canal Flats. The male was suffering from frostbite and hallucinating. The 19-year-old male of no fixed address is from the Nelson area, and admitted to consuming drugs. Given the physical and mental condition of the male, B.C. ambulance attended the scene and took the male to the hospital. Physical injuries were taken care of and the male was transported to the Cranbrook Psychiatric hospital for further care.

• On Thursday, February 23rd at 11:30 a.m., the detachment responded to an assault complaint in the 300 block of Laurier Street. A 45-year-old female from Cranbrook assaulted an adult male by throwing a liquid in his face. There were no serious injuries. The female was evicted from the boarding home, and was arrested for assault. The victim did not choose to pursue charges.

Proper interview and interrogations One of the challenges of police work is the ability to conduct proper interviews and interrogations.

I started to hone in on this skill at I believe the early age of 10 or 11. During one of our many war games amongst friends, another friend, Richard, and I caught one of the enemy. We captured Richard’s brother Magoo. We took him to our headquarters (my parents’ basement) and proceeded to interrogate him on the location of the rest of his troops. He refused to co-operate — a good soldier.

If memory serves me right, it could have been Draino or some other chemical that should not be put in one’s mouth, that we in fact put in his mouth to get him to talk. Although we lacked a great deal of maturity or common sense, we realized rather quickly that our prisoner was not able to speak even if he wanted to because he was in medical distress.

The other enemy, the parents, took swift action and immediately transported Magoo to the hospital. We were taken into custody by our parents to await the outcome.

From the reaction of our interrogation technique, our eventual punishment would depend on the severity of his injury, but he did immediately spit out what we put in his mouth and lived. Although we couldn’t get him to talk, he blabbed a great deal to our parents. Richard and I were not afforded the rights of prisoners of war under the Geneva Convention and the execution of punishment was without tribunal or legal representation, and it hurt. For those citizens that may find themselves being interviewed by me, the RCMP has taught me a softer approach, but… the Draino is in my top left drawer.

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Liberal hopeful visits valley

By Dan Walton, Pioneer Staff

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Local business people and elected officials were joined

by Liberal hopeful Martha Hall Findlay at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce during the early hours of Monday, February 25th.

Ms. Hall Findlay is in the midst of facing off against well-known Liberals such as Justin Trudeau and Marc Garneau in the federal leadership race. At her appearance in Invermere on Monday, the issue of healthcare arose, to which Ms. Hall Findlay made bold suggestions about a sensitive subject.

“We shouldn’t be so afraid of the word private, in the context of greater private delivery within the public system,” she said.

The Liberal hopeful anticipates greater value in components of healthcare privatization, but firmly believes in free delivery.

“In order to save what I think is hugely important is a universal access, publicly funded single-tier system.

[But] we need to be a lot smarter in how we deliver it because we just can’t keep up financially with changing demographics and increases in technology.”

She cited a private Toronto clinic as an example, which specializes in dealing with hernias.

“If you need a hernia operation, you don’t go in with a credit card, it’s completely public funded access.

They’re really, really good at it, they’re efficient, and they do it fast.”

Ms. Hall Findlay’s proposed changes would introduce no added cost for healthcare recipients, but healthcare providers would be given incentives to offer greater service.

“As business people we know that a little bit of competition is not a bad thing; it actually inspires a certain level of efficiency, and with the appropriate parameters, I think it could be a really good thing to see within the medical system.”

As those in attendance were given chances to ask anything, provincial Liberal hopeful for the ColumbiaRevelstoke riding, Doug Clovechok, asked Ms. Hall Findlay her opinion on the contentious issue of pipeline construction in British Columbia.

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250-342-6416 • invermere.bclibrary.ca

Brisco Riding Club

Annual General Meeting Thursday, March 7th 7:30 p.m. at the Brisco Hall.

ROUNDTABLE ROUNDUP — Martha Hall Findlay speaks with community leaders about issues facing the Columbia Valley on Monday, February 25th. Photo by Dan Walton “I’m an absolute advocate of getting access to the west coast,” she said. “I absolutely understand the whole issue of price differential because we only have one customer.”

While she’s in support of west coast trade access, Ms. Hall Findlay is open to the most ideal solution.

“There are some really interesting analyses in terms of rail through Alaska as a possibility. So I think those all need to be looked at, but I also advocated looking at these at the discussion about possibly going west to east -they’re not mutually exclusive,” she said, after mentioning the various possible pipeline routes through B.C. Previous leadership races have always required a paid membership to vote. However, the next leader of the Liberal Party of Canada will be determined by any Canadian who registers online and votes (at no cost) by Sunday, March 3rd.

Ms. Hall Findlay was adamant about encouraging participation in electing the next federal Liberal leader.

“You don’t have to join the Liberal party to vote,” she said. “You sign in as a supporter, it’s free, so no excuses.”

Preferential voting begins on April 6th, and results will be announced on April 14th. Registering to vote can be done online through liberal.ca .

Volunteers are needed for the upcoming year. For more information call Karel at 250-347-0085 or Amanda at 250-347-2125

Thank you Kate!

You have been an indispensable part of our newspaper and magazine team for the past three years, and you will always be our favourite Brit! We wish you the best both professionally and personally as you move on in life!

The management and staff of The Pioneer and Valley Echo newspapers.

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

PERSPECTIVE

A dirge for Inverdeer

Historical Lens

By Greg Amos

It’s news to no one that Invermere is busting at the seams with a local deer population that seems quite happy to settle in for the long haul. While the council is in a legal battle that’s cost the district $30,000 and counting, our happy population of local whitetail and mule deer are enjoying hints of spring after a milder-than-usual winter.

Surely such a well-fed population of contented ungulates can serve a more useful purpose than lounging on lawns and enjoying views of the Rockies!

One Pioneer reader pointed out a deer that was spotted stomping its hooves into a compost bin at the community garden (see page 31). With this example of community service in mind, I propose the following two directives for industrious deer: • All deer must offer rides for young tourists.

• Gentle deer shall contribute to restorative justice by being paired with violent offenders, as a form of therapy.

It’s by no means a long-term solution for the deer, but as we struggle to find the right balance for deer in the valley, I say let’s put them to work.

ICE UPDATE

As of the afternoon of Tuesday, February 27th, the ice thickness 50 feet offshore from Kinsmen Beach is 19.5 inches.

Correction

In the February 22nd edition of The Pioneer the photo titled ‘One in a million shot’ incorrectly states that Eric Leibel made a perfect bulls-eye twice in a row.

Erich Harbich is the archer responsible for the perfect shots. The Pioneer apologizes for the error and wishes Mr. Harbich the best with his obvious talent in archery.

Front porch frolicking In this photo, dated from the mid-1940s, the Peters family relax on the front porch of their home, located on the former Cydervale farm, which eventually became the Peters farm. Pictured, from left to right: Harry Peters, Amy-Lousia Peters, Joan Peters Solinger, Ruth Peters, Jack Solinger and Joe Peters. If you have any more information, e-mail us at info@cv-pioneer.com .

Photo (A1277) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Auxiliary funds not in dialysis unit Editor’s note: recent letters to both The Echo and The Pioneer have implied the community dialysis unit in Invermere was built in part with money raised by the local health care auxiliary groups.

Dear Editor:

munity dialysis unit located at the Invermere and District Hospital. It was paid for by the B.C. Renal Association.

We are in contact with Pauala James, head of renal health for Interior Health, in regard to our support in keeping the unit within our community.

On behalf of the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary, I am writing to clarify that the auxiliary did not purchase or contribute funds towards the com-

Evelyne Baertschi, President Jo Anne Myers, Secretary Invermere Health Care Auxiliary

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

Nicole Trigg Associate Editor

Kristian Rasmussen Reporter

Dean Midyette Advertising Sales

Angela Krebs

Advertising Sales

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design

Amanda Diakiw

Office Administrator/ Classified Sales

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

LETTERS

Clovechok’s dialysis story continues to change Dear Editor: No doubt you’ve scanned the headlines about the dialysis unit closing, and now not closing, at the Invermere & District Hospital.

One of my favourite headlines was a self-serving political gooder, Liberals Working Hard for Health Units.

When the story first broke we saw the typical deflect and distract maneuvers from our local Liberal, Doug Clovechock.

He noted the dialysis unit closure wasn’t made by his pals holding government. Instead, he said, they’re made “with the greatest of consideration” by people the government employs to make decisions for them — the Interior Health Authority. He also underlined the need for

continued cuts in healthcare and the Liberal’s penchant for “efficiencies.”

Two weeks ago the direction of this story changed significantly; the Dialysis Unit is getting a reprieve from its impending doom. The problem is Clovechock’s story is changing too.

He originally deflected the blame onto the IHA and tried to distract you from the issue by quoting some Liberal healthcare spending figures. Now he feels the closure wasn’t such a good idea. Funny how that works, eh?

I think we’ve heard enough of this Clovechock upchuck.

Bram Rossman Windermere

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the RDEK is on the hunt for the 2013 Electoral Area Volunteers of the Year

Deadline is Monday, March 25th!

Nomination forms are now available at our Cranbrook & Columbia Valley RDEK offices and on our website at www.rdek.bc.ca.

We want to hear from you The Pioneer always welcomes letters, emails and feedback from readers on the big (and small) issues in the valley and surrounding area.

If you would like to get in touch, there are four ways to do so.

You can email your letters to info@ cv-pioneer.com or visit our website at www.columbiavalleypioneer.com and use the online form to submit.

Reader may also mail 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.

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8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

Couple celebrates 40 years of service in the Rockies

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The porch light of a pioneering couple, who dedicated the past 40 years of their lives to acting as beacons of goodwill, law enforcement and shelter in Kootenay, Banff and Jasper National Parks, has finally gone out.

Park warden Terry Damm retired with his wife Marie on Monday, February 11th after having tamed some of the most remote wilderness postings Parks Canada had to offer, often with only work ethic and backcountry knowledge as support.

Originally from southern Ontario, Terry grew up in the small town of Essex. His father, Wallace Damm, was a minister and often moved Terry around the province. Terry first heard the call of the wild when his father moved him to northern Ontario. In Grade 11, Terry struck out on his own and took a job with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, performing the Temagami Creel census of 1966 near North Bay, Ontario.

“I was there for two years and we lived on an island on a reserve and spent eight to 10 hours a day in a boat checking fishermen,” Terry said. “I didn’t want to go home, but I had to go back to school.”

Terry returned to finish high school and, with little knowledge of the west, decided to hitchhike across Canada after graduation, venturing west to a world of gigantic mountains and boundless nature.

Returning home from his travels, Terry would begin another great adventure during the summer. After meeting his future wife Marie at a family function in 1969, the pair headed west.

“We considered the next year our honeymoon,” he said. “We didn’t want to settle in the East, so we packed up the van and out we came.”

Although he had taken outdoor-orientated jobs throughout his life, it would not be until the summer of 1973 that Terry and his new bride would find themselves nestled in the north end of Banff National Park at the Saskatchewan River Crossing warden station.

Terry’s first position as a parks patrolman lasted the next six years, during which he kept park visitors safe, maintained the station and tended the park’s horses. The change of living arrangements and the new mountain RSS

RSS

lifestyle proved to be daunting at first for Marie, whose previous work experience was in office environments.

“When I first drove up that highway to the Saskatchewan River Crossing and we saw three black bears right close to there, I was panicked.”

Marie admits that she had made the unwise decision of reading up on true stories of bear mauling prior to her time in the Rockies, and seeing a grizzly print caused her much anxiety. The spring and summer seasons in the Rockies helped her overcome that apprehension.

“Everywhere you looked there were flowers,” Marie said. “There was a flower on anything and everything — it was just mind boggling.”

The couple would enjoy the beauty of their mountain paradise on a permanent basis in 1979 when Terry received a full tenured position as a park warden in Jasper National Park. Although the new position came with the stability of permanent housing, the work was anything but routine.

“The attraction of the job was not just the variety of it, but the excitement of it,” Terry said. “There was an average of at least three times a day that you were running lights and sirens, whether going to a traffic accident, rescue, fire or bears.”

The ability to be in the right place at the right time was often crucial when it came to saving lives in the park during car accidents or. A knock on the cabin door was always an ominous sound.

“It usually wasn’t somebody coming for tea when they knocked on your door, it was to report a problem,” he said. “I have come across accidents where the wheels were Terry Damm still rolling.”

After several summers as a warden in Jasper National Park, Terry was transferred to Kootenay Crossing. . . . Continued on page 19

March 1, 2013

Page• 99 The Columbia Valley Pioneer

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

Grand salsa station

MOVIE REVIEW

Salsa took a step into the valley on Sunday, February 24th at Invermere’s Station Pub, where organizer Kirsten Harma and instructor Colleen Wagner were amongst those dancing up a Latin storm. More than a dozen dancers showed off their newly-acquired spicy moves after an hour-long lesson and an open dance session that lasted into the night.

PAGE 10

ICE INVESTIGATION

PAGE 30

Out & About Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley Photo by Dan Walton

CV Arts AGM March 7 at 7 pm

Come and get involved!

What does ART mean to you? Support ARTS in the Columbia Valley…

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

PAGE 13

10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

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

Movie Review: Chasing Mavericks Reviewed by Dan Walton Demonstrating passion and love for the ocean from an early age, 15-year-old Jay can never get enough of surfing. A residing of Santa Cruz, Jay lives on the same street as Frosty, a 30-something wise surfer played by Gerard Butler.

Known among the ladies for his rugged good looks, Gerard Butler’s sappiness is kept to a comfortable minimum in this flick. However, one scene (that has nothing to do with the plot) plays up his sex idol image, which demonstrates Butler wearing a wifebeater while renovating a kitchen.

Living with his mom during the mid 1990s, Jay faces constant challenges in dealing with bullies, domestic issues and the love of his life who won’t even look at him, only to persist in demonstrating good values.

Mavericks are enormous waves — some of the world’s biggest — but Jay believes Mavericks are a myth; a hoax to send avid surfers on a wild goose chase. However, when the fatherless teen sneaks a ride in Frosty’s van in the early hours of the morning, he’s led to a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs where the giant Maverick waves prove themselves real.

After Frosty catches the young man in his secret surf spot, Jay receives a firm talking to and is told never to return. Even though Frosty recognizes Jay’s impressive talent, he boldly informs the teen that he’s no match for the massive waves. Frosty then concludes that if he doesn’t mentor and train Jay, the ambitious teen will likely die trying.

Once Jay accepts Frosty’s intensive training program, he spends all his free time practicing. Free time is hard for Jay to find, though — his best friend begins associat-

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Due to the popularity of the guide in 2012, we are printing 50% more this year, therefore 15,000 copies of this year’s Dining Guide will be published and distributed to hotels, restaurants, visitor centres and businesses around the Columbia Valley.

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ing with the wrong crowd, he falls behind in school, he’s working extra shifts, and his substance-abusing mom is on the brink of losing her job.

In between Jay’s adverse challenges, impressive camera shots bring you to the beaches and into the ocean, where surfers performed complex maneuvers while riding supreme waves. And the film’s ‘90s punk music effectively ties together retro-California culture with the captivating high-def surfing shots.

As the natural progression of a Hollywood mentorship so often goes, the youth who always needed a father figure ends up teaching the old guy valuable lessons about life.

1 2 3 4 5

Chasing Mavericks Cheerful Weather for the Wedding Factory Perfect Sense War of the Dead

New Releases March 5 1 2 3 4 5

Wreck-it Ralph Red Dawn Playing for Keeps The Intouchables The Bay

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March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 11

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.

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.

Casino in the Copper Crown, and after party at the T-Bar, featuring “Funk and Disorderly”.

Monday, March 4th • 7 p.m.: Bingo at Canal Flats Civic Centre. For information call 250-349-5447.

• 8:30 p.m.: Want to learn to curl? Invermere Curling Club will be offering a FREE introduction to curling clinic, and again on March 11. Wear loose pants and bring indoor shoes. Olympic medalist Christine DuBois and other volunteers will be on site to teach the basics.

Tuesday, March 5th • 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.: Homework night at the Summit Youth Centre. For more information, call 250342-3033.

Wednesday, March 6th

Toby Theatre • 7:30 p.m.: March 7th - 9th, 14th-16th showing Parental Guidance.

Friday, March 1st • 10:30 a.m.: Preschool story time at the Invermere Public Library.

• 6:00 p.m.: Crepes Night with OPT at the Summit Youth Centre. For more information, call 250-3423033. New opening hours on Fridays 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m.

• 7 p.m.: Fresh Fridays at Pynelogs Cultural Centre, open mic, all ages welcome.

• My Best Life Mountain Retreat for women begins at Copper Point Resort. Wine and food pairing with candlelit yoga and inspirational films. Call 250-341-5331 for information.

Saturday, March 2nd • 10:00 a.m.: Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club information session will be held at the club rifle range to discuss changes to the handgun and rifle range regulations; shooters and interested parties welcome.

For more information, call 250-347-2499.

• My Best Life Mountain Retreat for women at Copper Point Resort. The retreat features various yoga, exercise, and nutrition sessions, along with diary writing and workshops. Call 250-341-5331 for information.

• 6:00 p.m.: Wall climbing with the Summit Youth Centre. For more info, call 250-342-3033.

• 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.: The seventh annual Career and Job Fair at the College of the Rockies Cranbrook Main Campus. Representatives from dozens of local and national companies, government agencies and professional associations will be at the fair. For more information on the Career and Job Fair contact Mary Davies, 250-4892751 ext. 3441 or email mdavies@cotr.bc.ca.

• 4:30 p.m.: Yoga Thrive - Yoga for Cancer Survivors and Support People. New 7-week session starts at Copper Point Resort. Call Jan Klimek at 250-3421195.

• 7:00 p.m.: Bingo. Windermere Hall.

Thursday, March 7th • 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Eagle Ranch is holding a Hiring Fair at the Eagle Ranch Clubhouse.

• 6:30 p.m.: Swimming at Radium Hot Springs Hot Pools with the Summit Youth Centre. For more information, call 250-342-3033.

• 6:00 p.m.: Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting at Lions Hall.

• 7:00 p.m.: CV Arts Annual General Meeting at Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

Friday, March 8th • Free tobogganing at Panorama Mountain Village for the Panorama Mountain Stampede. For more info, contact Jamie Hurschler at 250-341-4194 or jamie.hurschler@panoramaresort.com.

• 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.: 50th Anniversary Staff Alumni Reunion at Panorama Mountain Village. Cowboy

Saturday, March 9th • Panorama Mountain Village’s Mountain Stampede continues with cowboy cookouts, rodeo-inspired activities, live music, costumes, rail jams and more. For more info, contact Jamie Hurschler at 250-341-4194 or jamie.hurschler@panoramaresort.com.

• 1:00 p.m.: youth depart Summit Youth Centre for Panorama’s Mountain Stampede. Call to register at 250-342-3033.

• 50th Anniversary Staff Alumni Reunion at Panorama Mountain Village continues with a Family Fun Ski Race at 11:00 a.m., après ski on the Great Hall deck at 4:00 p.m., as well as an Adult Only Buffet at 7:00 p.m. followed by a dance in the Great Hall.

Other • 1:30 p.m.: Radium Seniors’ Carpet Bowling, Radium Senior’s Hall.

• 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.: Public indoor rock climbing at J.A. Laird School, $5 drop-in. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

• 6:30 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge at the Invermere Seniors’ Hall, $2/person, every Monday. Visitors welcome.

• 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.: East Kootenay Brain Injury Support Group meets at the Family Resource Centre, every Monday. For information call 250-344-5674.

• 9:30 p.m.: Open mic night every Thursday at the Hoodoo Grill. For more information, please call 250345-2166 or visit their website at www.hoodooville. ca/Hoodoo_Grill .

• 6:15 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: The 3066 Invermere Army Cadets runs every Monday night at our local Legion # 71. Contact Second Lt. Megan McConnell at 250409-4455 for information.

• Invermere Badminton Club: Wednesdays at JA Laird gym from 7-9 p.m. Sundays at DTSS from 7:30 - 10 p.m. Anyone interested can contact Colin Sherk at csherk@telus.net. Everyone is welcome.

Children should be accompanied by parents.

• 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: OPT clinic at the Invermere Health Unit, 850-10th Avenue. Confidential service: low-cost birth control, and STI testing.

• Seniors’ Day at the Invermere Library. 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. Join for tea and goodies. Community bus transportation provided from Lakeview Manor and Columbia Garden Village.

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

bernieraven@gmail.com

glennpomeroy@shaw.ca

connect@geoffhill.ca

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12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner.

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

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

• Election of officers • Review of financial position • Reception to follow Come out and support your community Arts Council.

Everyone Welcome!

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

(250) 342-1167 Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land FrontCounter BC Cranbrook has accepted an application made by the Alpine Club of Canada of Canmore, AB, on behalf of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Kootenay Region, for a Permit for the purpose of a temporary climbing camp situated on Provincial Crown Land north of the North Star Glacier and North Star Peak and containing 49 square kilometers or less.

The MFLNRO File Number that has been established for this application is 4405333. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to FrontCounter BC, 1902 Theatre Road, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 7G1 or email to: AuthorizingAgency.Cranbrook@gov.bc.ca. Comments will be received by FrontCounter BC until April 4, 2013. FrontCounter BC may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please refer to our website http:www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ ApplicationPosting/index.jsp -> Search -> Search by File Number: insert Lands File Number for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. For information, contact FOI Advisor at the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations regional office in Cranbrook.

March 1, 2013

Educators get artistic with new lesson plans Artist last September after spending a six-day course in Vancouver with five other artists training to become part of the program, in which teachers at schools learn from their Infusion artist.

“Everyone will act as an art teacher in the same way that everyone should be a teacher of reading and writing,” Ms. Jensen said. “The program offers different ways for students to express what they know because school is often very text-heavy. Expressing through an art form and engaging in a creative process deepens thinking and it usually lends to more critical thinking.”

Staff at J.A. Laird will meet with Ms. Lemaster to study up on the visual arts five times until spring break in order to discuss the next year of instruction.

“At Laird, they wanted visual arts and my strength is definitely drawing and painting,” said Ms. Lemaster.

“The drawing aspect can cross over all boundaries of interpretation.”

“We plan together and use our knowledge of curriculum and our school-based knowledge and she uses her artistic knowledge and we meld those together to come up with some plans,” Ms. Jensen explained. “We will be starting with drawing and we will be teaching sketching skills and then we will be moving from that into painting.”

Started in May 2012, the Infusion: Arts in Education program was originally created by the non-profit group 2010 Legacies Now with funds from the province of B.C. during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff Teachers at Invermere’s J.A. Laird Elementary are currently working on adding an easel to their teaching toolbox as part of the new Infusion: Arts in Education program.

“It is a three year program and it is about infusing the arts into education as a way for children to learn and demonstrate their learning,” said J.A. Laird Elementary School principal Jill Jensen. “Instead of having art as a discrete subject, it just becomes part of what kids do.”

The infusion program works by pairing one of six Infusion Teaching Artists across B.C. with a deserving school through a selection process that begins with a letter of intent on behalf of an interested school. Once a school is selected on the merits of their case, a paired artist conducts workshops with educators on how best to integrate art into a lesson plan.

In J.A. Laird’s case, the artist selected was Invermere’s Denise Lemaster, a professional visual artist of 15 years, who began meeting with educators at the school on February 10th.

“I am working with three teachers and Grades 4 to 7 with art infused in all subject areas,” said Ms. Lemaster, who holds degrees in both fine arts and education.

“We are trying to encourage creativity in all aspects of education. In this sense, the creativity happens to be in visual arts.”

Ms. Lemaster became a certified Infusion Teaching

The District of Invermere would like to remind pet owners of their responsibilities.

CONTROL, LICENCE AND CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG TO KEEP INVERMERE SAFE, CLEAN AND HEALTHY FOR EVERYONE – INCLUDING YOU AND YOUR PET. DOG LICENSE FEES: UNSPAYED FEMALE DOG:

35

$

00

UNNEUTERED MALE DOG:

35

$

00

SPAYED FEMALE DOG:

1500

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NEUTERED MALE DOG:

1500

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March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

JOB SEEKING

IN THE

VALLEY

Open season on jobs begins

By Pioneer Staff As the snowline recedes into the mountains and hibernating creatures rise from their burrows, the valley job market is shaking off the winter fatigue and ramping up for a season of sunshine, excitement and service.

While a strong work ethic and positive attitude may be the building blocks to gaining that perfect job this spring, Work BC has a few tips to complete the employment package beginning with brushing up on computer qualifications.

“I think what we have noticed within our employment centres are that a lot of employers are leaning towards online applications now,” said Amber Cuthill, business services coordinator with Work BC in Cranbrook. “They are trying to drive job seekers to their websites to apply online. I have heard from jobseekers that it takes away the ability to connect with the employer and show them their personality, but having said that, I know employers like the process because they can filter through resumes and shortlist from there.”

Another threat job hunters face is a fear of the unknown

on the part of employers. One of the best ways to get past the curtain of internal hiring is through finding ways to network with employees already working in the field.

“I think a lot of employers will tend to hire and promote within or through word of mouth,” she said. “We are working with employers who come in and talk to jobseekers on how to get an in because every employer, like every jobseeker, is very unique in their preferences and what they are looking for.”

Although employees must prove their worth through the hiring process, employers have a part to play in the process as well. Attracting and keeping a quality staff is a challenge for many businesses in the Columbia Valley.

“A lot of employers are talking about things like offering ski passes at some of the resorts and other incentives, like additional training so that employees can learn and expand,” Ms. Cuthill explained. “The other thing to take into consideration are the needs of employees and that balance between work and life.”

For more information on job hunting in the East Kootenays, please visit www.workbc.ca .

JOIN THE TEAM AT RADIUM RESORT! Radium Resort offers accommodation with over 100 guest rooms including condominiums and villas and is the proud home of The Springs and The Resort Golf Courses. Employees of Radium Resort are team oriented and have a genuine desire to provide outstanding guest service in a progressive work environment. Work and play at one of Canada’s premier resorts, while enjoying a Rocky Mountain lifestyle.

We are currently accepting applications for the following upcoming full and part-time positions: • Accounting Clerk • Room & Laundry Attendants • Front Desk Supervisor & Agents • Night Audit • Reservations Agent • Head Chef • Cook • Server • Outside Guest Services Attendant • Pro Shop Attendant Please submit resumes to info@radiumresort.com 250.347.9311

RadiumResort.com

The only local newspaper with free online content!

N E W S PA P E R

Phone: (250) 341-6299 • Fax: (250) 341-6229 • Email: info@cv-pioneer.com

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS Earn extra money, working this summer at Resort Villa Management, the management company for Sunchaser Vacation Villas.

Do you want your own independence, your own spending money, saving for university? If you have a positive attitude, like to work hard, yet have fun doing it, we have the perfect job for you!

We are now accepting resumes for the following seasonal positions:

Hiring Fair Positions Available: When: Thursday, March 7th, 1-3 p.m. • Ambassadors • Bartenders Where: Eagle Ranch • Beverage Cart • Guest Services Clubhouse, Pioneer Room • Kitchen Staff • Servers What to bring: Resume

• Turf Maintenance

stonecreekresorts.com

eagleranchresort.com

• Laundry Attendant • Housekeeping Attendants • Maintenance • Lifeguards • Part-time Front Desk Attendant We also have a position that would be suitable for a high school student in our Recreation and Grounds Keeping departments.

All positions are from May/June through to September.

We have transportation available for people residing in Invermere.

Please forward your resume with references to: cburke@sunchaservillas. ca or you may fax them to the confidential fax line at 250-345-6250.

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

How to ace your interview

Mr. Tire is hiring a full-time

TIRE TECHNICIAN

By Nicole Morgan Special to The Pioneer

Those experienced are preferred but can train the right individual.

www.cbt.org • 1.800.505.8998 Wage depending on experience.

Contact Mike 3.25”atx 250-342-6517.

2.7”

careers at cbt Manager, Community Initiatives (13-14 month maternity leave coverage)

Twitter

A detailed description can be viewed at www.cbt.org/careers or requested from Debra Stewart at 1.800.505.8998. Twitter Please forward resumes to dstewart@cbt.org by noon PST March 11, 2013 for consideration. www.cbt.org • 1.800.505.8998

Join us:

YARD LABOUR POSITION Are you ready to work for a company you can truly believe in?

Do you take pride in efficiently producing a superior quality product?

Are you constantly learning and asking the right questions?

Do you believe in being challenged and always bettering yourself?

Brisco Wood Preservers Ltd., a major Canadian Pole Producer of CCA treated wood poles to Western utilities and communications companies, is seeking to hire Labourers for our plant in Brisco, B.C. Our main treating facility is located just north of Radium Hot Springs in the beautiful Columbia Valley in British Columbia. Brisco Wood Preservers’ second treating facility is located in Peers, Alberta. In addition to our pole manufacturing and treating, Brisco also produces large engineered beams from LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) in our laminating plant Brisco Manufacturing Ltd. Brisco sells treated posts, rails, plywood and lumber and we also custom treat a variety of wood products.

General Summary: Reporting to the Yard Supervisor, the Labourer is required to learn various tasks including utility pole production, lumber piling, utility pole framing, counting inventory as well as general cleanup and other duties as required.

Key Responsibilities: • Perform tasks efficiently focusing on Safety, Quality and Production while meeting deadlines.

• Using a variety of equipment such as chainsaw, brander, drills and other hand tools.

• Fill out paperwork accurately.

• Work effectively together with assigned crew.

• Following established procedures to safely produce high quality results.

Qualifications: • Experience in Lumber mill production or manufacturing an asset. Willing to train the right candidate.

• Ability to follow direction and work together with others to complete assigned tasks.

• Ability to use simple mathematics.

• Background in the Forest Industry a definite asset.

• Self-reliant, organized, motivated and quality oriented.

This is a full-time position, which offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Please address cover letter and resume to Corey Boilard – VP Operations and e-mail PDF file to: ebennett@briscowood.com or Fax to 250-346-3218.

Deadline for application is 5 p.m. (MST) Friday, March 15, 2013.

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

Facebook

Facebook

Searching for a job can be a stressful pursuit. Being selected for an interview is an accomplishment in itself, something that sets you apart from a host of other applicants.

Your next step is preparing to create a first and lasting impression during the interview. Don’t get caught up in the anxiety of it all — just focus on serving up your “A game” by following the “four A” approach.

• Aptitude – List what skills you bring to the table, whether you have computer skills, leadership abilities, or anything else that makes up your key competencies. Prove you are knowledgeable by doing your homework about the company. Study their website, review recent industry news, and prepare to ask questions about the company’s vision, values, or specifics of the role.

• Attitude — This is where you can truly make an impression, and the first 30 seconds of the interview, it’s the most critical thing. It’s the simple things that often get missed when nerves set in: a handshake forgotten, failure to make eye contact, or failing to arrive on time.

All will set the tone for the whole interview.

To prepare for the curve balls an interviewer may throw at you, there are a couple of questions linked to attitude and behaviour that are crucial. Conflict resolution questions are key in identifying one’s critical thinking abilities, co-operation, and resilience. Think back to a time when you have mediated or resolved a conflict for a customer or fellow staff member, and how it affected that relationship in the long term.

Team player questions are key to making sure you are the right fit. Reflect to when you have been part of strong, successful teams and what role you played that contributed to their success.

• Accomplishments — List your accomplishments and note how they relate to the role.

RSS

RSS

Moments where you have truly gone above and beyond the norm will give you an edge.

Examples of volunteer work or supporting community members or those outside your realm of responsibility are memorable. When describing your accomplishments, don’t oversell yourself. Just remember the STARS technique: always highlight the situation, task, action, result, and skills gained that are relevant to the role.

• Assess and Self Awareness — Taking note of any skill gaps you may have is just as important as highlighting your strengths. Identify how you can develop these gaps, whether it’s through continuing education or seeking mentorship or shadow opportunities. It’s important to be honest about your needs and understand how the organization can help foster your own growth. There are some great on-line tools and tests to aid you both in the search for your next career, and provide insight on how your personality fits into certain work and team environments. Check out this link for free testing: www.123test.com .

Preparation and practice will give you the confidence you need for the interview, but most importantly, be yourself. Stay genuine and true to what you want, what you can give, and if you can find a role that speaks to who you truly are, that’s a win-win for everyone.

Attend a workshop on Interviewing Tips and Techniques in order to get the job you want!

The workshop is being held from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 23rd at the Invermere campus of College of the Rockies. To sign up, go to invermere@ cotr.bc.ca . The session will be facilitated by Nicole Morgan, and costs $25.

Nicole Morgan is part of the employee experience team at Panorama Mountain Village. A seasoned human resource professional, she provides training and consultation services to businesses throughout the valley and within the ski and tourism industry.

Assistant Gallery Curator 2013 Season

Full-time/seasonal April 15 to September 1st The Pynelogs Art Gallery & Cultural Centre, home of the Columbia Valley Arts is the local community arts council that supports the Columbia Valley arts community.

We are currently looking for an Assistant Gallery Curator to assist the Gallery Manager in administrative matters and gallery responsibilities.

Don’t Miss an Issue!

Working with the Gallery Manager, the Assistant Gallery Curator oversees the coordination of the Galleries’ curatorial program, assisting with hanging, installing and displaying the Art Gallery Shows, market summer programs and events, cash handling and financial transactions, promotes the arts council, assists in registrations/ticket sales, administrative matters and front line sales in the Gift Shop & Gallery.

Attention to detail, good organizational skills, ability to work without supervision, motivated, dependable and professional with strong communication and people skills for dealing with the public. Hours of work: full-time up to 40 hours per week, including weekends and some evenings. Rate of pay: depending on experience. Requirements: Post Secondary Student returning to school in 2013. Interest in arts an asset.

Business experience necessary. Mature, responsible and quick-thinking. Sense of humor a must! Deadline for applications is April 1st, 2013.

Please forward covering letter & resume to (or email): Columbia Valley Arts Council, Jami Scheffer – Manager, Gallery & Administration Box 2345, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • Phone 250.342.4423 • Email: info@columbiavalleyarts.com

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Building the valley’s workforce

By Greg Amos Pioneer Staff Federal and provincial funds are being are being funnelled towards a stronger workforce in the valley, thanks to the efforts of a service that set up shop in the valley last June.

Kootenay Employment Services, non-profit organization based in Creston, has covered the East Kootenays from Golden through Creston for several years, but has stepped up its local role with its new Invermere office found above High Country Properties.

Through an ever-increasing number of grants approved under the provincial Targeted Skills Shortage Program and the federal Working Solu- DEVELOPMENT DUO — Eden Yesh and Robin Shmigelsky at tions pilot program, the office is helping to fill gaps Invermere’s Kootenay Employment Services office are working hard to faced by local employers, explained Kootenay Em- deliver provincial and federal programs that will add capacity to the Photo by Greg Amos ployment Services’ economic development consul- valley’s local workforce. tant Eden Yesh.

For a business to qualify for the program, it must “We’re not limited just to employment services; we’re focused on community development in the East have less than 100 employees and identify with one of the following sectors: health care and social services, and West Kootenays,” he explained.

The Targeted Skills program grows the potential of manufacturing, natural gas, transportation, clean techtheir low-skilled employees — those with a high school nology, or green economy.

Next year, tourism, mining and forestry could join diploma or less — through grants of up to $1,500 apas the targeted sectors for the East Kootenays. plied to courses and training programs.

The office also administers the federal WorkThrough the province’s ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, 1,200 grants are given province-wide ing Solutions program for the entire Kootenays, each year. Under Kootenay Employment Services’ direct distributing 16 wage subsidies and 24 skills for employmarketing approach, the total for the East Kootenays has ment tuition supports each year. The program is meant for people who have any condition that acts as a barrier to grown from 60 grants to 110.

“We’ve maxed out our grants each year and asked employment, whether it’s attention deficit hyperactivfor extensions; we saw that other regions weren’t hitting ity disorder, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome or another impediment. theirs,” explained Mr. Yesh.

STRETCH

your advertising dollar FURTHER Advertise with…

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is now accepting applications for the position of:

Front Desk Manager Responsible for managing the Front Desk department, establishing and maintaining a professional relationship with Resort guests, and ensuring the highest standard of service and the best possible guest experience is maintained. Responsibilities include: • Overseeing all Front Desk operations including reservations, switchboard and seasonal guest services.

• Training and supervising the Front Desk team.

• Forecasting room nights, yield management and recommending room rates.

• Developing, implementing and monitoring an annual budget and business plan.

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N E W S PA P E R

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: (250) 341-6229 Email: ads@cv-pioneer.com

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Interested? Please forward your resume with references to the attention of David Sheedy: hr@fhsr.com, fax 250.345.6616, or call 250.345.6004.

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Copper City Amusement Park is hiring for

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All resumes can be forwarded to Trisha at trisha.wilson@hotmail.com or contact at 250-688-0711.

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ALL POSITIONS Resumes can be emailed to careers@copperpointresort.com, faxed to 250-341-4001 or dropped off to 760 Cooper Road.

Panorama Employment Opportunities Panorama Mountain Village is a resort located only 2 hours southwest of Banff, 18 km from the town of Invermere. In the summer, an award winning golf course, epic mountain bike trails, and several other outdoor activities make Panorama a year-round destination for staff and guests from all over the world.

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Customer Service Coordinator Position Flexible shifts, evenings and weekend work is required. 15-30 hour position. Benefits available.

Drop resumes off at Mark’s to Lisa Reiter, 480 Sarah Rd., located in the Canadian Tire building.

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

Skier makes podium return to racing

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff A local ski racer who gave up competitive skiing more than 32 years ago has found herself exploding down the slopes at 115 kilometres per hour with a new-found youthful energy.

Sue Coy recently entered the 32nd annual Over The Hill Downhill ski racing competition at Silver Star Winter Mountain Resort through the suggestion of her nephew and famed ski racer Benjamin Thomsen February 4th - 7th.

“When you turn 50 you look back at your life and you see a reflection of what you did and what you’re going to do and I just said, ‘I am going to ski race again,’” Sue added. “I am thankful that my nephew Benjamin is on the national team and that I am able to borrow a pair of skis, curved poles and a one-piece suit that he wore last year.”

Although she had left the sport when a coach told her she was too old to continue racing at the age of 19 and after breaking her clavicle during a brutal accident while racing in Kimberley during the 19811982 winter season, Sue earned a gold, silver and bronze medal at the Over the Hill Downhill event held on February 13th.

Sue came first place place in her age category of

out of 22 other female competitors, some of whom were half her age. The Fairmont local credits her strong starts out of the gate with much of her success.

“The start to me is the most critical aspect of the race because you can win a race with a good start, and then of course being aerodynamic and maintaining a tuck for as long as you possible can throughout the whole course is important as well as having fun,” she said. “When I would get to the bottom of the course I would be giggling because I felt like I was 18 again.”

In addition to the loan of professional 210 cm race skis from her nephew, Sue also received a chemical advantage from her teammate and wax wizard Boyd Calloway, who professionally tuned skis for Alpine Canada, the Europa Cup and the World Cup, she said.

“He knows his skis inside and out. He did not just put on wax; it was more like, “I put on this stuff, with this stuff, with this stuff and this stuff — and they were fast!”

Although it would appear that competing comes naturally to Sue, before her departure from the sport FAIRMONT’S FINEST — Sue Coy shows off the skis that were leant to during the 1982 season she had plenty of practice, her by her nephew, Canadian ski team member Ben Thomsen, to compete competing in more races than she can remember all in the Over the Hill Downhill at Silver Star on February 13th.

Photo by Kristian Rasmussen over North America.

50-55, second in the masters team event and third overall

. . . Continued on page 30

Candidates corner

By Pioneer Staff Three Canal Flats residents will be battling it out for a coveted seat on the village’s five-member council.

Roy Webb, Dean Midyette, and Linda Magee are confirmed as candidates after the village confirmed the nominations on Friday, February 22nd. The three are vying to fill the seat vacated by former councillor Evence Blanchard, who resigned in December, citing a lack of time for council business.

Of the three, only Roy Webb has previous experience on the village’s council; he filled in for nearly a year in a seat vacated the 2008 through 2011 council.

“I got in so much trouble for not running during the last [general election], so I better try again,” said Webb, who worked at the Tembec (now Canfor) sawmill in Canal Flats for 28 years. Webb was also steward of the Canal Flats water system for 30 years

prior to the town’s incorporation. He now works as a long-haul truck driver, though he is currently on leave.

Dean Midyette has lived in Canal Flats for nearly a decade with his wife Lizzie and sons Michael and Christopher, and aims to bring a consensusbuilding approach to the council.

“There are some major issues Canal Flats is facing,” he said, noting council must find a way to proceed with the Eagles Nest water system to make use of provincial grant money before its deadline has passed.

“I’ll make sure I’ve researched it well and that I understand all the issues.”

Candidate Linda Magee did not respond to phone calls prior to The Pioneer’s press deadline.

Any challenges to the submitted nominations were to be filed at the village office by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26th. The election is expected to be held before April.

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

A mountain’s worth of excitement The valley was a hub of activity over the past week with a chamber function, wild game dinner, anti-bullying day, winter carnival and Judo tournament. Pictured, clockwise, from left to right: Students at David Thompson Secondary show their support for national Pink Shirt Day in support of safe schools and an end to bullying on Wednesday, February 27th; Christopher Ridge and Nolan Watt participate in the Dog Sled Challenge at Windermere Elementary’s Winter Carnival on Thursday, February 21st; Dave McGrath, Joshua Estabrooks and Doug Clovechok enjoy a laugh at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Mixer event held at Invermere’s Arrowhead Brewey on Thursday, February 21st; Mackenzie Dubois and Marcia Paget are refereed by local sensei Hermann Mauthner during the Judo competition at David Thompson Secondary February 22nd - 24th.

Clubs from Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Port Coquitlam and Salmo competed with Invermere athletes, who earned top podium spots, including a 3rd place finish for Aiden McCormack, Gracen Oliver, Aviva Rosenfeld and Jyles Traverse. Second place honours went to Emma Norquay and Marcia Paget. The top trophy was awarded to Mackenzie Dubois; The Columbia Valley Pioneer’s Kate Irwin enjoys the feast at the Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun Club’s Wild Game Banquet held on Saturday, February 23rd.

Photos by Kristian Rasmussen, Dan Walton, Greg Amos, Lizzie Midyette and Ron Norquay

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

YOUR MONEY

The advantages of corporate class funds One of the most common questions that people ask their financial advisor is how they can make their investment portfolios as tax-efficient as possible. Accounts such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and TaxFree Savings Accounts (TFSAs) are great options; however, many people have a need for tax-efficiency outside of their registered accounts, or in their business accounts.

For these people there is another investment tool worth looking at: corporate class mutual funds.

How do they work?

Corporate class funds are different from regular mutual funds because they can allow a deferral of tax by using a corporation rather than a legal trust. This deferral of taxation also allows the investors to turn their interest and dividend income into capital gains. This distinction leads to many advantages for people to keep their taxable income low. In addition, many corporate class funds allow for a certain percentage of the fund’s balance, say 5%, to be paid out as income on an annual basis with no immediate tax liability. This gives people the option of taking income if they need it while deferring the income tax.

With this information in mind, there are several scenarios in which a corporate class fund works especially well.

Incorporated Business Owners Successful business owners often accumulate aftertax profits in their corporations which are then invested.

Unfortunately, corporate tax rates on passive investment income are quite high, which causes many people in this situation gravitate towards investments that generate capital gains instead of interest. Corporate class funds are one way to achieve this.

Old-Age Security Higher-income seniors must pay back all or a portion of their Old-Age Security benefits if their annual income before adjustments exceeds $70,954 in 2013. Deferring tax through corporate class funds is one way for people to avoid or minimize an Old Age Security claw-back.

Long-term care There are many good reasons for seniors to consider corporate class funds, as many of the benefits available to them are income-tested. One consideration is the possibility of being in a long-term care facility one day. Many people are not aware that bed rates in long-term care facilities are income-tested, up to certain maximums.

Currently, those in long-term care who have $19,500 or more annual income pay 80% of their after-tax income on a monthly basis to cover their costs, to a maximum of $3,059.00 per month.

While there is no way to get around one’s registered assets being counted as income past age 72, using a corporate class fund would allow a person to preserve their nonregistered assets while receiving long-term care. This can

help their savings last longer, and when they eventually pass away more of their estate could be preserved for their heirs.

Other income tested benefits Those who have low income could risk the loss of certain income-tested benefits such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement or BC Fair PharmaCare. A person could use corporate class funds to keep their taxable income low enough to collect these benefits while taking income from their funds to further support their lifestyle.

Charitable contributions Philanthropic people who plan to donate to charity can use corporate class funds to provide tax-efficient cash flow in retirement while establishing an effective charitable giving strategy. The registered charity may be able to use special rules in the Income Tax Act to eliminate any capital gains tax liability on an in-kind donation of these funds, and the investor would receive the donation tax credit on their final tax return.

Final thoughts Traditionally, people have used dividend-paying securities like stocks or preferred shares to achieve superior taxefficiency. However, these investments are not suitable for everyone. If you are looking for ways to minimize your taxable income in order to save tax or preserve certain benefits, speak to your financial advisor.

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

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

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

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Biggest Loser: Gaining traction Editor’s note: This is the second column in a series about Invermere’s Biggest Loser Competition written by Pioneer associate editor Nicole Trigg.

In my first column about the Biggest Loser Challenge at Copper Point Golf Club, I described the three-month program as a catalyst for getting out of my comfort zone.

“But why should we get out of our comfort zones?” somebody later asked me. “We lead such busy lives; isn’t it called a ‘comfort zone’ for a reason?”

I need time out from the daily grind as much as the next person, but I also want to use what free time I have to achieve certain goals in life. You know, the dreams you’ve always carried around in your head but never found time to manifest.

Mine include writing a book, becoming an accomplished guitar player, and entering a competitive mountain bike race. But before I joined the challenge, my comfort zone wasn’t giving me what I needed in order to accomplish them. I had big dreams but no traction to get there.

This program isn’t just about weight loss, Copper Point Golf Club manager Brain Schaal reminded our group.

“It will change your lives,” said Schaal, who was one of two guest speakers for weeks two and three of . . . ‘Couple celebrates’ continued from page 8 “At Kootenay Crossing things ran in spurts,” he said. “You could be run off your feet for three to four days at a time with rescues and traffic accidents and then all of a sudden you would go into a lull and get time to catch your breath.”

Terry and Marie had little time to catch their breath in 2001 before it was choked from them when Mount Shanks erupted in smoke and flame in Kootenay National park, burning 3,800 hectares.

“I have never seen mountains explode before, but the trees just lit up all at once from the heat coming up from the valley below,” Terry said. “It was

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

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the program. Schaal introduced the group to the idea of a vision board, a visualization tool that affirms our life hopes, goals and dreams to help us realize our ambitions, he explained. Soon all 20 of us were on the floor, flipping through magazines, cutting out images and words, and pasting them onto large pieces of construction paper.

My work of art is now pinned up at home in full sight, complete with images of a guitar and travel, as well as strong words like “action” and “determination”.

Delving even deeper into the psyche and subconscious was our second guest speaker. Invermere resident Jayden Sterling is an international motivational speaker and author of the best-selling book, The Alchemy of True Success. “You are not just changing your physical self, you are changing who you are from the inside out,” Sterling told us.

I’m happy to report my personal transformation is underway. These days you’ll find me happily bustling around in my kitchen doing food prep, trail running in the snow with my dog, and even finding time to pick up my guitar and strum a few songs. Not only that, but I’m shedding pounds, enough to make me the biggest loser for week three. Tip of the week: Get label savvy! If you don’t recognize the ingredients, your body won’t either.

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more instant than napalm because everything reaches a flashpoint at the same time and just flashes up in flames.”

They came out of the 2001 fire unharmed and spent the next 12 years together cultivating new relationships and ornate gardens around their mountain homes.

“Terry and Marie have made tremendous contributions to Kootenay National Park and the other national parks,” said Omar McDadi, Parks Canada communications officer. “It is a sad day to see them go, but they have had lives that were very well lived in the mountain parks and have helped so many people throughout their careers.”

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The Village of Radium Hot Springs is in the process of preparing a new ‘Official Community Plan’ (OCP) and we are inviting informal comments from residents and ratepayers on the contents of the plan. The draft OCP and schedules can be found on our website www.radiumhotsprings.ca by clicking on ‘Draft OCP’ located on the home page menu bar. Please refer your questions and comments to CAO Mark Read at the following email address: Mark.Read@radiumhotsprings.ca Informal comments will be received until April 4th, 2013.

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

Writer wins big

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff An Invermere author has earned top honours for her ability to commandeer the English language to surrender to her solid wit. Beverly Rasporich is the 2012 recipient of the Kootenay Literary Competition’s first place fiction award for her short story Che. “Writers, I think, are always kind of conduits. They are vehicles for something that comes from somewhere they don’t know and I can only think of it as a kind of magic.”

Acting as a sponge for the creative currents the valley soaks in, Bev’s 2,000 word story introduces an elderly protagonist facing the twilight of her life in a seniors’ home — with an surreal twist.

“The central character is really beginning to develop dementia in a way that is both tragic and comic,” she explained.

“The revolution aspect is that she believes that Osama Bin Laden is going to come and she is going to break out.”

Although dementia is a crippling ailment facing many seniors, the Invermere author continued the theme of the Kootenay Literary Competition to explore the degenerative condition in a revolutionary way.

“I think there is a different twist to the normal view that this is a very dreadful thing that is happening to people — dementia and Alzheimers,” she added. “It is not purely tragic and there is kind of

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a comedy there and some acceptance of that situation.”

Bev’s first place finish in the fiction category, which was open to submissions from throughout the East and West Kootenays, earned her $500, publication in the Kootenay Literary Competition’s winners anthology e-book, and VIP status at the awards dinner held at Nelson’s Prestige Resort on Friday, January 18th.

“I think the literary arts are kind of under-represented in Invermere,” Beverly, who is also a ceramic artist, said. “We have a lot of painters, potters and glass artists and I think it would be wonderful if we could have the support for the literary arts here as they do in Nelson, where 200 people show up for an awards show.”

As a university professor with 25 years of experience specialization in teaching literary and visual arts, the author advises emerging writers to practise their trade regularly.

“You have to keep writing all of the time,” she said. “For young people, reading is very important because you learn from other authors.”

In addition to her first place finish at the Kootenay Literary Competition, Beverly won FreeFall Literary Magazine’s short story contest in 2007 with her entry “True Romance.” She has published nine books and 26 articles on Canadian culture.

For more information on the Kootenay Literary Competition and to purchase the Revolution Anthology e-book, please visit www.Kootenaylitcomp.com .

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March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

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22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

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March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

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

250-341-8501 Seniors’ Discount

• 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 BOUTIQUE VACATION HOME MANAGEMENT RENTAL SERVICES “Proven and successful Management and Marketing Services for your Vacation Home” “Trip Advisor Vacation Rental of the Year 2011 and 2012”

• RENOVATIONS • PAINTING

• Weekly Home Checks • Full Yard Services • Maintenance Services

Call or visit online

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

David Gulbe • Mike Bernicot

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

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ADVERTISING DEADLINE

March 28th, 2013

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• Columbia Valley Homes is one of the most popular valley magazines.

• Creates great visibility for local home builders, contractors, decorators, retailers and more.

• Educates visitors and prospective home buyers to all that the Columbia Valley offers.

Columbia Valley Homes & Lifestyles is a complimentary, high-quality glossy magazine distributed throughout the Columbia Valley. The magazine highlights current trends, beautiful homes, renovations and style tips, and encapsulates what makes living in the Columbia Valley so unique.

With new content every year, Columbia Valley Homes & Lifestyles is a perfect vehicle for advertising. It is visually appealing, well designed, and user-friendly, making it the perfect showcase for the products or services you offer.

Contact Dean Midyette or Angela Krebs N E W S PA P E R

250-341-6299 • ads@cv-pioneer.com Box 868, Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

By Kristian Rasmussen Pioneer Staff Nipika Mountain Resort’s finest found their European groove at the Masters World Cup in Asiago, Italy, on February 14th through 22nd.

Lyle Wilson and Magi Scallion competitively cross-country skied over 100 kilometres at the event, which attracted the most talented racers on earth.

Mr. Wilson used his experience attending six prior World Cups throughout Europe and Scandinavia to edge out competition.

The local skier competed in his first event, a 15-kilometre classic race, on February 16th, followed by a 10-kilometre race and a 20-kilometre relay race, which Mr. Wilson led for the Canadian Team, and finally a 30-kilometre classic competition.

“Unfortunately, this year I got sick shortly after arriving in Asiago and did not race to my expectations,” he said.

“That’s the way it goes sometimes.”

Although he was unhappy with the result, Mr. Wilson placed 17th in the 15-kilometre classic race, 17th in the 10- kilometre

classic, 8th in the 20-kilometre relay and 11th in the 30-kilometre classic.

“This event had the highest calibre of skiers I have ever raced against in the World Masters, with numerous past Olympians and World Cup veterans.”

Magi Scallion, who was not able to train to her full extent for the event because she was earning her Masters of Business Administration, entered the 15-kilometre classic and placed 4th, the 10 -kilometre skate and earned 2nd, the 10- kilometre skate relay and earned 6th and the 30-kilometre classic and earned 2nd.

“I was finally old enough to participate in the trip and Asiago is a place I’ve long wanted to visit,” she said.

“The skiing at Nipika has been fantastic this winter. It certainly helped me train for the event.”

The World Cup Masters event hosted 1,200 international skiers between the ages of 30 and 90 plus.

“The beauty of the World Masters is that it is a very recreational and welcoming event for everybody — whether you’re racing or just participating,” she said.

HERE TO SERVE YOU Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals • Complete sewer/drain repairs • A well maintained septic system NEW should be pumped every 2-3 years SEWER • Reasonable rates – Seniors’ discount CAMERA • Speedy service – 7 days a week • Avoid costly repairs

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

◆

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22 - 14 Avenue South, Cranbrook B.C. V1C 2W8

Ph: 250-426-7016 or 250-421-1537 Email: cscl.admin@shawlink.ca

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Confidential document destruction Competitive rates On-site shredding option Pick-up

Proudly owned and operated by the Cranbrook Society for Community Living

From Framing to Finishing Complete Automotive Repairs Al Tallman Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash – Find our classified ad for discounts.

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

Call Al at

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

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

We Do It All!

N E W S PA P E R

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Dean Midyette

Advertising Sales

Ph: 250.341.6299 • Cell: 250.341.1939 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com dean@cv-pioneer.com

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

• • • •

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

GARAGE SALES

ANNOUNCEMENT

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Garage / basement sale. Saturday, March 2nd, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 1622 8th Avenue, Invermere. We will be clearing out a house full of stuff to make room for the new guys.

Come in through the garage and be prepared to take off your shoes.

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.

Jeers to those who assume that just because they are local they deserve a job. Local businesses hire the best candidate for the job not who feels most entitled to it.

Cheers to the young person who returned my favorite guitar pick.

Angus.

Cheers to everyone who came out and showed their support for the Local Legends charity fundraiser.

Thanks to you we helped raise over $4,000 for Mountain of Hope.

Double cheers to Mayor Gerry for coming out and taking a pie in the face for charity. Thanks so much for your support and willingness to help our community. You rule.

For lease: 725 sq.ft. office space in professional building. Street-level, air conditioned. 712-10th Street.

Call 250-342-9767.

CHEERS & JEERS

Jeers to the dark charcoal cat that comes into our pet door, eats all of my cat’s food and sprays on its way out. Not nice.

ANNOUNCEMENT 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.

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

Cheers to all the people who have spoken on dialysis. J. & E. Cheers to Gerry Taft for standing up for democracy! We appreciate the excellent work you do for all of us.

Great job!

S OBITUARY S FRANK FENTON SMITH December 1, 1919 – February 20, 2013.

Frank Smith of Windermere, (really on the lake) B.C. passed away on February 20, 2013, the same way he lived his life, with quiet dignity and no fuss. Frank is survived by his daughter Cathy (Peter) Evans of Windermere, 2 grandchildren Tracy (Randy) Ference of Sundre, AB., and Kevin (Carolina) Evans of Calgary, AB, and 6 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Phyllis, son Kevin and brother George. Frank was born in Bellevue, Alberta and moved with his family to Erickson, B.C. where they operated the family orchard. The family then relocated to Kimberley, B.C. where he had an idyllic childhood and finished his schooling. He then went to UBC in Vancouver to study engineering.

After graduation he moved to Montreal where he met the love of his life, Phyllis (an R.N.) on a blind date. They were happily married for 56 years. As a young couple they spent one year in England where Frank worked for Doughty designing aircraft undercarriages after WW II. He also worked in Tugurt, Algeria and Texas. Frank worked in the oil patch in Calgary for many years. Then in 1980 Frank retired to Windermere, where he was free to pursue his passion for fishing and gardening. He loved nothing more than to be fording streams in search of the next “hole” with trout. We would like to thank Dr. Walsh and the incredible staff at Columbia House in Invermere B.C. for the warm loving and caring support he received during his final years. In accordance with Frank’s wishes there will be no formal service. He will be interred with Phyllis in the Windermere cemetery overlooking the lake and valley he loved so much. We will have a celebration for Dad at a later date. If friends desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

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

Cheers to Chris Snyder for helping herself and so many of her friends quit smoking!

Cheers to whoever or whatever helped keep our hospital in town. It sure has been busy as always. How could we ever be without it.

Jeers to people who sell wet firewood. My fire needs relighting several times a night.

Cheers and many thanks to Jo B. at Canterbury Flowers for going above and beyond to make a special delivery to my mom on her birthday!

Cheers to our Nanci, the best bus driver! Thanks for keeping our kids safe every day. Great job!

Cheers to the cougars for looking after the deer cull that should have all ready been dealt with, and jeers to the people that stopped the deer cull. This is happening because of you.

Cheers to Kevin, Greg and Shawna from District of Invermere for going above and beyond on our road.

Lordco.

Three big cheers for the many caring citizens who participated in the February 19th protest in Radium. Their efforts to protect our democratic values are commendable.

Cheers to Dr. Page and all her helpers at the Invermere Medical clinic. Great smiles all around.

Cheers to the police officer who was swarmed by the kids at Sonshine Daycare, observed by a neighbour.

No arrests were made. Well done, RCMP. Cheers to Jeff at Invermere Glass.

Thanks so much for the plexi glass for my birdhouse and feeder project. You rock! Nature will love us all for it!

Cheers to ICAN and Global Animal Lovers Society for all the wonderful volunteers, many endless hours helping and loving our sweet animal friends. We can all make a difference together. Keep up the great work. You all have the huge hearts. Thank you!

Cheers to CMFP. Happy 40th to the best bartender in the Valley!

A huge cheers to the crew maintaining the Horsethief Creek Service Road. You have done an excellent job throughout this winter season. The sanding and the plowing of the road has never looked better! Thanks again from someone who travels it quite frequently. I’m sure the backcountry enthusiasts appreciate all your hard work as well.

Cheers to the two First Nations members who dropped off personal donations at the Windermere fire hall towards the much-needed H.E.L.P (Hovercraft Emergency Lake Patrol) for ice rescues. More donations are needed!

Jeers to the guys who broke into the tire store and stole tires. I really hope the charges and criminal record you will have was worth it.

Sad that a guy who helps everyone gets ripped off from people he trusted.

Cheers with much appreciation to Elizabeth Shopland, David Sharp, D.K. Rice and Joanne Bragg who inspired and supported us through the challenges and lessons of our course with grace and humour.

Thank you. TIOW 2012 .

LOST AND FOUND LOST: woman’s diamond ring.

Much sentimental value. If found please call 250-342-6667.

STORAGE NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climate-controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

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

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.

Workshop or warehouse. 1,500 sq. ft., heated, 1 loading dock, 2 overhead doors. Phone 250-3463011 or 250-342-5297.

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

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

Are you retired? Looking to downsize but not ready for a senior’s facility? Here’s a great opportunity in a large spacious home. Call 250-341-7711 for information.

Invermere: roommate needed to share large, 3-bdrm house on the lake. Fully furnished. 587-2276609.

Roommate wanted to share large, beautiful home in Pineridge. Own private entrance and living space with garage parking. $800/month, all included. Call Tiffany at 250342-0732 or 250-342-8885.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED WANTED: 3-bdrm home with double garage. If you have a wellcared for home that is priced at or below latest BC assessment value up to $600K between Radium and Windermere e-mail lazulite@ hotmail.ca or phone 250-3472490.

SUITE FOR RENT Invermere: brand new 2-bdrm, 1-bath, fully-furnished basement suite with private entrance. 6 appliances, N/P, N/S. $1,100/ month, utilities included. $550 D.D. References required. Available immediately. 250-342-7323.

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

SUITE FOR RENT

SUITE FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT

CONDO FOR RENT

HOMES FOR SALE

ANIMALS

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.

Windermere: Upper Hilltop Road.

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

250-342-3790.

Invermere: 2-bdrm house for rent.

New propane furnace and wood stove. W/D, fenced yard and great location. $1,000/month. 250-3415427.

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

Newly renovated 3,000 sq. ft. home for sale in downtown Invermere, just blocks from the beach. 4-bdrm, 2-bath. Open-concept living, older home, zoned R2. Asking $299,000.

Why rent when you can own for $1,400/month? Call 250-342-5148.

Full-size pro soccer table. Excellent condition. $250 OBO. 250-3415168.

PUPPY SOCIALIZATION / DOG OBEDIENCE AND ADVANCED CLASSES. Interested in learning some helpful tips on obedience and the importance of socialization for your dog or puppy? Certified canine behaviorist, Gary Dace, has over 20 years’ experience and uses 100% positive reinforcement.

Classes start Monday, April 8th.

Registration and reservations required. Previous obedience classes required for advanced class registration. Please phone the Invermere Veterinary Hospital 250-342-7007 for information and registration.

FIREWOOD

VEHICLES FOR SALE

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

2003 Nissan Murano AWD. 179,000 kms. Very clean with new paint. $12,000. 250-342-9875 or 250342-1476.

Invermere: affordable 1-bdrm and 2-bdrm apartments. $600 - $800/ month. Includes all utilities. 250341-1182.

Suites available in Radium Motel.

Low, low, low rates. Daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Kitchenette units available. Call 250-347-9915.

Brand new large, bright, 2-bdrm basement suite in downtown Invermere. Private entrance and enclosed patio, all new appliances, N/S, $750/month + utilities.

Available immediately. Call 403874-0483.

3-story beautiful home near Windermere beach. 1-bdrm, 1-bath. With fireplace and woodstove, garden, W/D, N/S, N/P. $500/month, utilities included.

250-341-1100.

Rural Invermere: bright, clean, 2-bdrm lower-level suite. 950 sq. ft. W/D, N/S, large property, dog friendly. $800/month + 1/3 hydro. Includes wi-fi and propane heat. 250-409-4029 or bgulevich@ gmail.com .

Invermere suite for rent: 2-bdrm, 1-bath. Available immediately.

N/S, N/P, D/W, W/D. $750/month + utilities. Please call Juliana at Mountain Creek Properties. 250341-6003.

Heron Point: beautiful, 3-bdrm, 2-bath apartment. Ground-floor, lake-side view, furnished. All appliances, fitness room, pool, hot tub. Very close to beach and downtown. N/P, N/S. $1,450/ month. References please. Call 250-342-3790.

Black Forest: 2-bdrm upper-suite for rent. Very bright and roomy, large yard, 2 bathrooms, nonsmoking. Available March 1. $950/ month includes utilities. 250-3421305.

1757 Fort Point Close. Wonderful 3-bdrm, 3-bath executive home.

F/P, garage, A/C, lake access. $1,350/month + utilities. April 1st.

250-342-6577.

Invermere: bright, new, large fully furnished basement suite. Shared laundry, BBQ, large sunny yard, driveway parking, N/S. $475.00/ single, $650.00/couple, utilities and wifi included. Available immediately. 403-341-5027.

Rustic, cozy 2-bdrm furnished cabin. No W/D, large private yard with storage shed. Pets OK. Suitable for one or two adults. 10 minute walk to downtown. $825/ month includes cable and utilities, available soon. 250-342-9636.

HOUSE FOR RENT

3-bdrm house. Great location and lake views! One level, W/D, F/S, dishwasher. Available January 1st. $815/month + utilities. Jeff, 250688-1105.

FOR RENT INVERMERE

5 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom family home. Walk to schools and town. $1,400 + utilities.

3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, Westside park family home. Close to schools, $1,200 + utilities.

3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, newer family home with single garage. $1,200 + utilities.

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom Lake Windermere Point condo. Partially furnished, 3rd floor facing the lake. $1,150 + utilities.

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom Lake Windermere Point condo. Partially furnished, 3rd floor facing the lake. $1,150 + utilities.

2 bedroom + den 1.5 bathroom furnished town house $1,250 + utilities

RADIUM

PANORAMA

Furnished condos in Horsethief and Toby Creek Lodges. Available from April 15th.

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

Windermere: 1-bdrm house. Cozy and clean, $700/month + utilities.

250-342-3790.

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

3-bdrm, semi-detached home with carport in Invermere close to all schools. Available immediately.

N/S, pets negotiable. $850/month + utilities. Call Joan at 250-3427517 to view.

Canal Flats: 2-bdrm, 1.5-bath 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.

In Radium: cozy 2-bdrm, 2-bath trailer on large private lot with outbuildings and fenced yard. N/S. $900/month + utilities. 250-3423841.

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 immediately.

250-270-0377.

2-bdrm cabin in Athalmer. $600/ month + utilities. 250-342-6813.

FITNESS

CONDO FOR RENT

2 bedroom 1 bathroom furnished downtown apartments from $750 2 bedroom plus den, 2 bathroom, Sable ridge Condo. Furnished and equipped. $950 + utilities.

Invermere: 2-bdrm, 2-bath furnished condo. Close to downtown. N/S, N/P, references.

No partiers. $1,025/month, utilities included. 403-978-4559 or 403251-4556.

FOR RENT INVERMERE

Wilder Subdivision: Furnished 2 bedroom home including electricity at $1,100/per month Lake Windermere Pointe starting at $800/month for unfurnished; $1,250 and up for furnished.

Pool, underground parking, elevator and much more.

RADIUM

The Aspen – Furnished 2 bedroom with two parking stalls, at $1,100/per month including electricity Radium Resort – Furnished 2 bedroom condo at $1,100/per month plus utilities.

FAIRMONT SOUTH

Luxury two bedroom furnished home at Spirits Reach. Call for information.

WILMER

“Available Soon” Cozy cottage with a loft. $800./per month plus utilities

Eric Redeker 250-342-5914

FirstChoiceRentals.ca

Zumba Fitness – Julie Parent. Have you heard of ZUMBA SENTAO? Julie’s back from the Zumba Instructor’s Conference in LA, California and is now certified to teach Zumba Sentao. Come out and give it a try! Your core will love you for it and so will your bikini! March Spring Special - Unlimited classes, $35 for the entire month or drop in for $10/class. Classes are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at J.A. Laird school gym.

Please note temporary venue change:** March 18th, 20th and 21st classes are being held at Copper Point Resort at 5:30 p.m. Please check in at front desk of resort. Classes are canceled for March 25th, 27th and 28th.

Regular classes resume on April 3rd at J.A. Laird school gym. For more information please contact Julie at 250-341-5474, email japarent@ telus.net, www.julieparent.zumba. com or on Facebook at Zumba Fitness - Julie Parent.

MISC. FOR SALE Adjust-a-bed. Full adjustable with massage. Barely used. $200. Phone 250-342-6849.

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 YUMMY BRAN MUFFINS

¼ cup Tenderflake Shortening ½ cup Brown Sugar, packed 2 Eggs, unbeaten 1 cup Milk 1 cup All Purpose Flour

1½ teaspoons Baking Powder ½ teaspoon Baking Soda ½ teaspoon Salt 1½ cups Natural Wheat Bran ½ cup Raisins or Dates

Preheat oven to 400 F degrees.

Cream shortening and sugar together.

Add eggs, one at a time and beat together well.

Add milk, and then the bran; mix well.

In a separate bowl combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Add to wet ingredients and stir well.

Add raisins or dates if desired.

Place in a greased muffin tin and bake for 18 – 20 minutes.

See all my recipes at recipes.kimcollens.com

Home Of The Week Outstanding Value at The Peaks!

Imagine owning this beautiful top floor condo that shows like new with panoramic mountain views. Offered furnished and ready to enjoy so you can plan for a more balanced lifestyle! . ®

$219,900

MLS

K218350

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

Look up to a higher standard with our classified ads.

Pioneer Classifieds

N E W S PA P E R

info@cv-pioneer.com (250) 341-6299

SERVICES

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

photography studio & custom art framing

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

250-342-5102

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 .

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Fiona Wilfley, AEP Intuitive Reader

Fairmont Hot Springs Studio • 250-342-1713

QI GONG QiGong is an exercise regime using gentle movement with breath and focus to move energy through our bodies. This practice promotes fitness, good health, healing and well being. It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. No experience is necessary. Beginner classes begin February 4th and are ongoing.

For Information contact Betty Newton Cell or text 250-342-5736 or newtonhome@shaw.ca

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

250-342-5089.

Shannon’s Blinds & Designs “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 Covering the Valley – One Window At A Time HOUSECLEANING Is cleaning taking up too much of your family/vacation time? 20 years of local cleaning experience and would love to help you out.

Honest, reliable, hard working, love to clean, with excellent references!

I have a few spots open, contact me for details and price. Monday Friday only, weekly or biweekly, or on an as-needed basis for second homeowners. Sorry do not do rentals. Dianne Peterson, 250-3429702 or email dtpeterson@shaw. ca.

Certified K-12 teacher available for childcare over Spring Break, March 18th - 29th. Phone 250-688-1244.

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Tegart Sawmilling

WAA Construction looking for labourer to run excavator, skid steer, bob cat and dump truck. Must have Class 3, preferably Class 1. Email resume to kimole@shaw.ca.

High performance woodmizer bansawmill. Quality custom-cut lumber and timbers. Competitive pricing and delivery available.

Located in Invermere, B.C. 250-346-3363.

HELP WANTED

FARM~TASTIC! WINDERBERRY NURSERY is looking for an enthusiastic and energetic person to join our spring and summer team. Position would be full time from April 1st until the end of September. Job would include such duties as soil preparation for greenhouse operation, handling of nursery stock (can you lift 50 lbs.?), property maintenance, and assisting with all aspects of vegetable crop seeding, production, harvest and sales. In other words, good, honest, hard work, in the beautiful setting of Windermere. Perks include a delicious array of organically grown veggies to snack on all summer!

Please direct any questions or your resume to lin@winderberry.ca.

Offering a full-time, yearround pumper/cashier position to a mature and reliable individual.

Email resumes to luckystrikegas@ shaw.ca or fax 1-888-883-8594.

Black Forest Restaurant is hiring.

Cook, $12 - $14 per hour. 40 hours per week. Email resumes to careers@blackforestrestaurant.com or drop off resumes between noon and 5 p.m.

N E W S PA P E R

Don’t Miss an Issue!

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com 250-341-6299 • info@cv-pioneer.com

ATTENTION JOB HUNTERS!

Check out the Employment Feature in this week’s Columbia Valley Pioneer on pages 13, 14 & 15.

Watch for employment opportunities as well as tips to find work in this great valley.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

From Australia to the Iditarod: one man’s dog mushing adventure “Not long into the winter he had his team decided on and we were left with a When opportunity knocks, Glenn Findlay throws full team of dogs, second open all the doors and invites it in for a drink. string dogs, but still very This adventuring spirit has seen the amiable Ausgood,” Finn explained. sie flow from one continent to the next throughout “He asked me if I would run them in his life. How else does an Australian concrete truck the Iditarod.” driver end up 12,000 kilometres from home, in a tiny, broken-down shack in Alaska, training with the father Without even of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race? stopping to think, It all began at a party. It was the late 1970s and Finn agreed to beFinn — as everybody refers to him — was in his midcome the Iditarod’s twenties, living in Sydney and utterly devoted to surffirst ever Australian ing. The need to hold down a job was interfering with competitor. Having A clothing patch a ceaseless pursuit of waves to ride. spent an entire autumn given to Iditarod entrants.

“My whole life revolved around surfing,” he said, and winter season rushblue eyes glinting. “Whenever there was good surf I’d ing around on sleds, he was buoyed with the confidence not go into work and would get fired.” of someone who doesn’t know any better.

After landing a job driving concrete trucks, Finn This confidence carried him to the ceremonial start found the flexibility to suit his surf bum lifestyle and rose of the race on Fourth Avenue in downtown Anchorage through the ranks to own his own concrete mixer. It was on March 6th, 1982. With a full pack of 18 dogs going then, in the early ‘80s, he realized he could hire a relief crazy in front of him, the rookie musher hung on to his driver to man his truck and go away for periods of time. sled for dear life, stomping hard on the foot brake to “I actually pushed that policy way past the limits prevent running headlong into the cheering crowds, and of what normal people would do,” he joked. “I took off was whisked across the start line. and travelled all over the world.”

Ahead of him stretched a gruelling two-week race While planning a trip to the United States, Finn through some of the harshest terrain in Alaska. bumped into two men at a party who told tales of living The Iditarod, which began as the Iditarod Trail the high life in Alaska, working on salmon fishing boats.

Seppala Memorial Race, was first held in 1967, cov‘I’ll have a piece of that,” the Aussie told himself FROSTED FINN — Fairmont’s Glenn ‘Finn’ Findlay faced -50°F ering 50 kilometres of trails near Anchorage. It was temperatures, a stubborn dog pack and fierce competition from sea- created to commemorate the Great Race of Mercy, a and started imagining an Alaskan adventure.

“I doubt they’d even worked on a salmon fishing soned mushers when he twice took on the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, in 1925, 1,095 kilometre serum run to Nome involving Photo © Jeff Schultz/IditarodPhotos.com 20 mushers and close to 150 sled dogs. boat, but they convinced me!” he explained. “I went to 1982 and ‘85.

L.A., hung out there for six or seven months and then The mushers relayed life-saving medication across one of the founders of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. bought a motorbike in San Diego and rode up to Alaska.” the state, preventing a fatal epidemic of diphtheria from With no knowledge of Joe’s mushing pedigree and not decimating the population of Nome and its surrounding Without any idea of when the fishing season started, whether jobs were available or even where exactly he was a clue what this Iditarod stuff was all about, Finn agreed to communities. aiming for in the summer of 1981, Finn set out for Alaska. help Joe train for the 1982 event — a 1,049 mile sled dog By the time of Finn’s rookie race, the Iditarod course “Jack London is one of my favourite authors and he race run held in early March from Anchorage to Nome. had been extended to 1,049 miles (1,690 kilometres) After a fall spent looking after hundreds of dogs near with more than 20 remote checkpoints along the way. wrote a lot of gold rush adventure-type stuff,” he said.

“I was riding up to Alaska getting all starry-eyed about Joe’s home in Knik, an hour northeast of Anchorage, Glenn, “Joe Redington Senior at the time had some of the best Joe and a third man hired to help with the training, set out sled dog blood lines in Alaska. I thought as long as I didn’t spending a summer fishing there.”

As it turned out, by the time he reached Anchorage 80 kilometres into the middle of nowhere for the winter. do anything catastrophically stupid I’d get there,” he said.

“I’d started out looking after 250 or so sled dogs by myin midsummer, most fishing boats were crewed up and Reality soon set in as he and his dog team faced their out on the ocean. Undeterred, Finn took a job digging self in the fall,” Finn said. “When winter came we moved first 160 kilometre stretch from Willow to Yentna Staditches and instead decided to immerse himself in an out into the bush with about 30 of them. Joe was in a camp- tion to Skwentna, an area known as ‘moose alley’ due to Alaskan winter wilderness experience, and to find him- er, the other guy and me were in eight by 10 foot tents. the high numbers of the animals using the trails.

“I wanted something different and I got it.” self a grizzled old trapper to spend the snowy season with.

The toughest leg of the race, from Finger Lake to As temperatures plunged to lows of -50°F and a bit- Rainy Pass — the Iditarod’s most dangerous checkpoint “I was running around Anchorage trying to find a trapper; it turns out they all live in the bush!’ he laughed. ter, northern winter howled across the remote terrain, — was yet to come.

“Finally I bumped into a guy who said, ‘I don’t know any each day Joe loaded up a sled, harnessed a team of dogs “If you want to remain competitive you can’t sleep,” and went out to race around the wilderness to choose 18 Finn explained. “You run through the middle of the trappers, but I do know a musher.’”

The musher turned out to be Joe Redington Senior, canine athletes. night with only a head lamp to guide you ... You have

By Kate Irwin Pioneer Staff

March 1, 2013 to try and keep your wits about you and stay awake and alert when you’ve only had a two-hour catnap.”

While out on the trail, a musher’s most important priority is caring for his or her dog team. Packages of food and medicine, along with volunteer veterinarians, meet the teams at each checkpoint to ensure the animals are well looked after. The dogs used, mixed-breed huskies, are well adapted for the hardships of Alaskan winters.

Although mushers begin the race with a full team of 18 dogs, due to injury, illness and exhaustion the canine athletes are whittled down as the two to three week event unfolds. Mushers are required to cross the finish line with at least six dogs in harness.

Between caring for the dogs and snatching moments of sleep while tied to the sled, Finn worked his way through forests, tundra, over hills and mountain passes and across rivers. At one point, the horrendous weather conditions forced race organizers to shut down the event for 24 hours and all the teams ended up clustered at a checkpoint.

“You don’t get to see that very often,” Finn said. “All these legendary dog mushers were there trying to outdo one another with stories ... It was a huge highlight for me.”

After climbing up the Alaska Range, the mushers then head down into the Alaska Interior. By the time they emerge at the Ophir checkpoint, the front-runners are several days ahead of those in the back of the pack. At this point, Finn and flew back out to Alaska in the summer of 1984 to start training. Without Joe Redington was sitting comfortably somewhere in the middle.

After Ophir, the route splits and in even numbered to provide his race team, the Aussie had to years, mushers head north to Cripple, while during odd hunt down his own dogs, renting them here numbered years they go south, via the ghost town of Idi- and there until he had enough to race with.

The 1985 race was as gruelling, maybe tarod. Once they reach the Bering Sea, it’s a final dash along more so, than the first. Finn was in the top the shores of the Norton Sound inlet to reach Nome.

“To get to the finish line is unbelievable,” Finn said. five racers throughout most of the course and “You run your dogs right down main street while every was filled with optimism for a top ten finish.

But during the final days out on the ice single person in Nome is in the crowd going wild.”

After 17 days, 11 hours, 57 minutes and 53 seconds of of the Bering Sea, a vicious blizzard blew racing, Glenn could celebrate becoming not only the first in, forcing Finn and several other racers Australian to enter the Iditarod, but also the first to finish it. to hunker down behind their sleds as 145 He crossed the finish line in 23rd place out of a field of 46. kilometre per hour winds howled across the His mentor, Joe Redington Senior, came in 17th, cross- open ocean. The storm scuppered all chances of the top ten finish he craved. ing the finish line three hours 35 Finn completed the race in 20 minutes before his protégé.

“I thought as long as I didn’t do anything days, 1 hour, 34 minutes and 33 Back home in his native catastrophically stupid I’d get there.” seconds, and was heartbroken with Australia a few weeks later, the result.

Finn found his countrymen Glenn Findlay, “Obviously you hope to learn couldn’t comprehend the jour1982 and 1985 Iditarod Sled Dog racer from your mistakes and do better ney he had taken. the second time around, but that “In Australia the concept of an Alaskan winter is so far removed from peoples’ compre- blizzard killed the race for me,” he reflected.

After his second Iditarod, Finn returned to his native hension that you just get blank looks when you talk about Australia and received a stern telling off from the trade it,” he said. “In the end I just stopped talking about it.”

A flurry of media interest from the Australian press union he was part of for abandoning his concrete mixer eventually died down and Finn resumed driving his con- for months at a time to go adventuring.

When they attempted to curtail his nomadic lifestyle, crete mixer and sneaking off to exotic destinations whenhe packed in the job and began work as a ski instructor in ever the chance presented itself.

Two years later he was shocked when a friend got in New Zealand. A chance invitation from a friend led him touch to say that there was an advertisement in the news- to the Columbia Valley, where he has remained ever since.

“Some friends of mine were doing back-to-back winpaper seeking ‘The Australian who ran in the Iditarod’. A prominent Australian businessman was looking to make a ters in New Zealand and Canada,” Finn recounted. “One documentary about the race and offered Finn an unexpect- was working a ski season at Panorama and wrote to me and said, ‘Come on over.’ So I did.” ed chance to enter again, with the $50,000 costs paid for.

In his new valley home, Finn quickly embraced a new Never one to turn down adventure, Finn accepted

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

ALASKAN ADVENTURING — Clockwise from top left: A young Glenn Findlay takes his BMW motorbike across the border into Alaska in 1981; Finn in the modern day with his 17th place trophy from 1985 and his 1982 Iditarod belt buckle, awarded to those who complete the race; the certificate awarded by the State of Alaska in 1982 to those completing the Iditarod.

Photos submitted kind of seasonal lifestyle, spending winters teaching on the slopes and five summers working as a guide for a local rafting company. Together with his wife, Wendy Booth, Finn then opened his own rafting company, which the duo ran for 20 years before retiring.

The two-time musher now fills his winters driving a snowplow for the Mainroad Group and his summers working on reducing his golf handicap.

“Although the Iditarod was a great experience I have no desire to do it again,” he said. “I’d go out and follow along with the race but truth be told, after all these winters in Alaska and Canada I’m ready to say goodbye to cold winters and fly south to avoid them.”

The 41st annual Iditarod Sled Dog Race begins on Saturday, March 2nd, 2013. To follow the race online, visit www.iditarod.com .

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

Do plants in the lake cause thin ice?

Watershed Wanderings

By Kirsten Harma Pioneer Columnist I was surprised to read in the Friday, January 11th edition of The Pioneer that people have attributed the thin ice on Lake Windermere this year to underwater plants. The Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ “Catch the Freeze” contest highlighted the fact that the lake froze about a week later than the seven previous years, and weather data is already showing warmer than usual conditions.

I wondered: why would plants affect ice cover? And if they do, how much of an impact would they make?

I posed this question to an online forum of ecologists from throughout North America. They came up with the following ideas for connections between aquatic plants and ice thickness: • Plant material sticking up to the surface might physically prevent creation of a thick layer of ice.

• Processes happening not by the plants themselves, but the microbes feeding on decayed plants and other organic matter in the soil, could have an effect. The microbes, living in low to no oxygen conditions produce methane gas (CH4).

Those gases then rise to the lake surface, possibly affecting ice by stirring up the water at the bottom of the lake, causing the warmer water to rise to the surface, or causing bubbles to form and get trapped in the ice as it forms. When these areas are warmed by a wet snow or above-freezing temperatures, the ice might thin. . . . ‘Racer makes podium return’ continued from page 16 Beginning with the Nancy Greene program at Mount Norquay, Sue started competitively skiing at the age of five.

“We were always skiers in my family, so my mom put us in the Nancy Greene program and it kind of took off,” she said.

“Next thing I know, I am 14-years-old and going to the Canadian Juveniles. I climbed up the ladder pretty far in ski racing.”

Sue’s most cherished memory from her ski career was during a race at the Canadian Nationals held at Mont Saint-Sauveur outside Quebec City during the 1980-1981 season.

“I came down the course and usually the first 5-6 spots at the Nationals are all held by national team members and I was the first provincial team

It’s easy to rule out the first idea for most of Lake Windermere, since most of the aquatic plants are below the lake surface.

To test the second idea , I ventured onto Lake Windermere with Pioneer reporter Kristian Rasmussen in January to drill some holes and look at temperatures.

The ice was a similar thickness above areas with plants and areas without plants. The shallowest water, which had lots of plants below the surface, also had the coldest water at the lake bottom: 1.3 C. That means that even if bubbles were being produced, the water they were bringing to the surface wouldn’t have much “warming” energy left when it reached the surface.

Conclusion? The answer seems to lie in the rising bubbles. Research conducted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada found that lakes with oxygen-free water or with high organic matter coming from rivers can produce lots of methane, albeit at slower rates in the winter. A study on lakes in Alaska showed one to two-metre wide “patches” of thin ice above areas where methane was bubbling up from the bottom. Those tended to be in areas that were shallow enough that the bubbles reached the top of the lake before dissipating.

So could this be happening on Lake Windermere?

Kristian and I didn’t find any of those patches in Lake Windermere during our short excursion, and we’d be curious to know if any readers see distinct thin patches out on the lake.

If this process is happening in Lake Windermere, how much of a difference does it make? Stepping back and thinking on a larger scale, we can see surface temperatures have a much greater impact on ice thickness.

Brad Kitching, who grooms the skiing tracks on the lake, says that for every day at or below –10 C, an inch of ice is added to the lake. Conversely, everyone has seen what member behind the national members.”

The most memorable aspect of the finish for Sue was when Canadian Sports Hall of Fame member and ski racing star Laurie Graham ran from the stands to personally congratulate her.

“That was probably my best result and happiest moment,” she said.

With a racing renaissance started in her life, Sue has begun planning a new chapter of racing adventures starting with her next big event, the Masters ski racing competition at Nakiska Ski Resort scheduled for the end of March.

“With the Masters you score points and from those points you can be named to the national Masters team and then from there I hope I can, providing money allows me to, race in the World Masters and go to Europe.”

For more information on Sue’s upcoming race at Nakiska Ski Resort please visit their website at www.skinakiska.com .

happens to the snow on the lake when an abovefreezing Chinook wind comes through: we’re left with a slushy mess.

That same warm energy melts ice and prevents ice formation. The effect of having bubbles trapped in ice only leads to ice melt when there are warmer above-ice conditions. Therefore, if there are warmer winters, the impacts of processes happening SCIENCE ON ICE — Kirsten Harbeneath the sur- ma records lake depth info during a face will have a January research outing for this column.

Photo by Kristian Rasmussen greater impact on ice cover.

What’sa lake user to do? If you can walk on the lake before the snow falls, look for patches with bubbles and avoid them throughout the winter. And if you’re not wearing your toque, chances are you might be finding some thin ice!

Kirsten Harma is the program coordinator for the Lake Windermere Ambassadors.

Train fatality ID’d

By Pioneer Staff The BC Coroners Service have identified Carmen Denise Salazar as the 50-year-old Invermere woman killed as a result of being struck by a southbound train near 4th Avenue and Borden Street in Athalmer last Tuesday (February 20.)

“First and foremost, our company’s heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends of the fatally injured woman,”

said Kevin Hrysak, spokesperson for CP Rail.

“It was indicated that the women were crossing the tracks in the area and upon our approaching section crews did try to make their presence known to the women by sounding the whistle, but unfortunately they did make contact with one of the individuals, which resulted in this tragic fatality.”

March 1, 2013

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

Valley Churches

FAITH

How do we measure impact?

By Father Gabriel St. Joseph’s Catholic Church One can’t escape the sign that reads “high impact place” when someone drives towards Cranbrook from Invermere.

The other day this signpost caught my attention and I am thrilled to reflect this message with you today.

Impacts are mighty forces. They have the power to affect, stimulate and influence one’s thinking and feeling. The American philosopher William Barkley once said “The human mind is a clean slate, on which impressions are written”. These impressions gradually impact the mind of the individual to respond either positively or negatively.

Similarly, human interactions impact everyone in a variety of ways. To explore a few examples, consider how the family surroundings and the warmth of the parents and siblings impact us. We not only remember these grace-filled associations, but also cherish them in our lives. The school environment impacts the young minds to grow and develop in a wonderfully healthy atmosphere of friends and educational stewards, who plant the seeds of optimism for children to develop their innate potentials as individuals.

Our social interactions impact our honourable life and help us to manifest our loyalty and goodwill towards everyone. Lasting impressions and memories are recorded in our human brain from these interactions and they constantly impact us.

It’s not only individuals who impact us, but also the media, especially social media. The recent debate on gun violence in America, the scandalous rape incident in India, the pre-emptive hostage crisis in Algeria and the coup attempt in Mali have created powerful sensations in the international world.

We are empathetic towards those who have undergone these painful situations. Our inner spirit is stimulated to work for peace and cry aloud to stop violence against humankind. There are thousands of people who impact our lives everyday: the nurse in the hospital, the clerk in the bank, the waitress in the restaurant and the journeyman, but for their goodwill and cooperation, the world may not be a wonderful place for our existence.

The Bible talks about Jesus, the son of God, who impacted the human race in a special way by shedding his blood on the cross for the freedom of the children of God. We move on to celebrate Lent, Holy Week and Easter within a few weeks.

During this time we will remember the great example and sacrifice of Jesus who touched the human feet with his divine hands and washed everyone in love, showing mercy and kindness to humankind (John 13:15).

Can we impact the tranformation of the world through our selfless service to God and humankind?

Composting companion While on as stroll through the neighbourhood, Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club treasurer Bob Walker snapped this photo of a deer adding its eco-hoofprint to the composting facilities at the Groundswell Community Greenhouse in Invermere on Friday, January 25th.

Photo by Bob Walker

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, March 3rd 10:30 a.m. Third Sunday of Lent. “The Easter Experience: what if what happened then changes everything now?

Rejected by the people”.

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

Pastor Trevor Hagan • 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED 9:30 a.m. God’s Breakfast Club for Children and Youth 10:30 a.m.: Worship at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Sunday March 3rd, 7 p.m.: Lenten Quiet Prayer Service 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 February 7th: 10 a.m. bible study on the Book of Revelations 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

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 1, 2013

Food is our passion.

A BE

R ’ S PAW

B

A

LL

Daily Specials at the Bear’s Paw Bar & Grill R & G RI

All You t A E n A C Pasta Wednesday

Your kind of pasta, cooked your way, with soup, salad and dessert.

5:30pm – 9:00pm every Wednesday at Mountain Flowers in the Lodge.

Adult $18.95 • Senior 15% discount • Child (5–12) $9.50 • Children 4 and under eat FREE Prices do not include tax and gratuity.

250.345.6070 fairmonthotsprings.com