Vol13issue12

March 18, 2016 Vol. 13/Issue 12

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

The Columbia

Valley

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1 March 18, 2016

P ioneer

FREE

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

ICE OUT WINNER

Olivia Gibson of Calgary does a spread eagle jump in the moguls competition on Sunday, March 13th during the Kootenay Freestyle Classic at Panorama Mountain Resort last weekend. See page 30 for more photos.

3

Panorama Freeride Club photo

HALL PERFORMANCE

5 HOME RENOVATION

FREESTYLE FINESSE 16 Along The Springs Golf Course Radium Hot Springs, BC

PHASE 10 (first 9 phases sold out)

Join us for an OPEN HOUSE on Sat., March 26th from 1-4 PM to view the newly finished residences

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

Previous exPerience Microsoft certified systeMs engineer , MBA

Cheers to Lorrie at Lorrie’s Computer Repair for fixing our computer. Great service, highly recommended.

VALLEY VIEWS

february 25th, columbia valley Pioneer’s cheers and Jeers.

Buying a NEW computer? SAVE up to $300 Cell: 250-688-COMP (2667) Please join us for our

ColumbiaValley Skating Club

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, March 29th, 7 p.m.

Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena

Upcoming Events Ser

Family Easter Egg Decorating

vin g th

e Co lumbia Va

Wednesday, March 23rd, 6-8 p.m.

Fun for the whole family! Eggs and decorations supplied.

lle y

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Valley GoGo Sisters stood united last weekend

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The Valley GoGo Sisters’ annual St. Patrick’s Day Tea and Bake Sale took place at Christ Church Trinity on Saturday, March 12th and drew a crowd. Proceeds from the sale of homebaked goodies and refreshments will directly benefit African grandmothers coping with children orphaned by HIV/AIDS through the Stephen Lewis Foundation. The aim of the program is to began raising awareness about the African AIDS pandemic in the East and West Kootenay regions.

The Stephen Lewis Foundation works with community-based organizations in Africa to offer counselling and education about HIV. It also aims to teach preventative measures for sexual health, and reach out to the families who are affected by illness and bereavement, while helping orphans access education and work in spite of the hurdles of daily life in Africa.

Photos by Breanne Massey

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March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

VALLEY NEWS

Fullerton wins $1,000 prize in Ice Out wager will be given out at the David Thompson Secondary School graduation awards ceremony in June.

“This particular fundraiser is earmarked so that’s where the money goes to,” said Ms. Oram. “We didn’t Heather Fullerton has been named this year’s winner of the Ice Out wager after being just one minsell all of the tickets, so we didn’t raise that much ute shy of the recorded time when the ice melted on money, but we’ll still give out the scholarships.

“We, as Lions, really want to emphasize that this Lake Windermere, according to Raylene Oram, Lake Windermere District and Lions Club treasurer. particular fundraiser is very much going back to the community in the form of scholarships and the CitiMs. Fullerton predicted the ice would melt at Fort Point (north from the bridge near the Highway zen of the Year awards.”

93/95 to Athalmer) at 11:15 a.m. on March 10th.

The lauded community wager has presented a “Her time was one minute off the actual time reunique opportunity for bets to be made and participants to compete for a purse of $1,000 in total. corded when the ice went out,” said Ms. Oram. “It’s the phone call you really want to receive: ‘This is not CLOSE CALL — Lake Windermere District Lions Club trea“We started selling tickets in mid-February and surer Raylene Oram (right) presents the $1,000 Ice Out winner’s with the ice going out so early, we had a very short seaa TV show, it’s the Lions calling you’.”

Submitted photo son,” said Ms. Fullerton. “It went out on March 10th The $2 buy-in for the Lions’ annual Ice Out cheque to Heather Fullerton. competition goes to a good cause. Proceeds from the contest will be put towards at 11:14 a.m… we have a couple of members that keep a close eye on it because they two $2,000 annual scholarships and a $500 Student Citizen of the Year award that live in the Fort Point area so it’s not a problem.”

By Breanne Massey Pioneer Staff

Jumbo municipality plans to defer joining RDEK board

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort Municipality is making it clear that it doesn’t plan to take a seat at the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board of directors table any time soon — Jumbo council passed a resolution at its most recent council meeting to push back the time when it is scheduled to do just that.

The resolution was proposed by Jumbo mayor Greg Deck at the Tuesday, March 15th council meeting, requesting the provincial government amend the part of the municipality’s letters patent (the provincial legislation that created and incorporated the mountain resort municipality) that would have seen it become a sitting member of the RDEK when it either had sufficient residents, reached a certain level of assessment, or in January 2017 — whichever came first.

“We have do not have those residents yet,” said Mr. Deck, who was participating in the meeting by phone, noting the January 2017 date is coming up soon. He said that although the municipality is chipping in financially

1988

25

WV

2013

INDERMERE ALLEY Golf Course

to the RDEK by paying hospital and RDEK taxes, there is little point in it doing any more than that.

“All the reasons to not have an active role in the RDEK will still be there in January 2017 and are still sound,” he said. “I think we should ask the provincial government to extend that original timeline for another three years to January 2020 (by amending the letters patent).” He added the move should not attract any controversy. Mr. Deck later said the proposed three-year extension does not necessarily mean that January 2020 is when the municipality expects to have enough residents or be developed enough to warrant a seat on the RDEK board of directors, and in that sense is somewhat arbitrary.

“It’s difficult to say (when there will be residents and development) because there are many outside factors that make it hard to predict that schedule,” said Mr. Deck.

The resolution passed unanimously.

During the meeting, Jumbo council also gave initial readings to its 2016-2020 financial plan bylaw and received and accepted the municipality’s 2015 audited financial statements. Jumbo chief financial officer Karen Sharp pointed out a discrepancy between the two

documents — that the financial plan bylaw (which is the municipality’s budget) shows the Small Communities Grant and Community Works Fund coming in in future years, while the 2015 audited financial statements shows them being deferred during the previous year. The Jumbo municipality receiving these grants has been the subject of previous controversy.

“We still have to recognize on the financial plan that we could have that money coming in. I have to show in the (2016) budget the potential for these funds to come in,” said Ms. Sharp. “In the actual financial statement at the end of the year (2016), that’s when it will show we have deferred the funds.”

As evidence, she pointed to the 2015 financial statements, page five of which has a budgeted revenue of about $250,000 in government transfers contrasted with an actual revenue of roughly $121,000 in government transfers. “We did not actually receive the Small Communities Grant, we deferred it. The figures show how that works out,” she said.

The financial plan bylaw will likely be adopted at the next Jumbo council meeting.

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4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

SECURITY • • • •

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an 10 ni -ye ve ar rs ar y

Submitted by Cpl. Brent Ayers Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment Between the dates of March 7th, 2016 and March 14th, 2016, the Columbia Valley Detachment has responded to 57 calls for service, which included five files involving drugs and or overdose, two assaults, four domestic reports, four impaired investigations, three accidents, two erratic drivers and one reported intoxicated subject.

A few files are as follows:

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Calling for nominations for

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Acknowledge the outstanding service of someone you feel is deserving of being awarded Rotary’s Citizen of the Year Award 2015.

Serving the community is very often not publicized.

Here is your opportunity to highlight the quiet selfless work that builds and strengthens our community.

Simply write a detailed letter to: Rotary Club of Invermere P.O. Box 877, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Nominations will close on March 31st. Award will be announced in The Columbia Valley Pioneer soon after that.

www.invermererotary.org

• On Monday, March 7th, Columbia Valley RCMP were notified of power lines down across both lanes of Highway 93/95 near Hobbit Frontage Road in Radium Hot Springs. It was reported that vehicles were still driving over the power line. Due to other priority files, the RCMP member was unable to attend. However, Radium Fire did and made the area safe until the arrival of BC Hydro. BC Hydro suspects that the power line was downed by a truck that was over height. There are no suspects or witnesses.

• On Wednesday, March 9th, Columbia Valley RCMP investigated an assault of a male sprayed by bear spray while in his residence located on 13th Avenue in Invermere. An unknown person entered the unlocked basement suite, entered the bedroom and sprayed him, then ran away. If anyone has any information about this incident, please contact the RCMP and quote file number 2016-436.

• On Thursday, March 10th, Columbia Valley RCMP received a report of a hit and run that occurred on 7th Avenue in Invermere. An older male in a blue sedan was witnessed pulling out of a parking spot, striking a 2006 white GMC Sierra. A witness ran outside, but the vehicle took off. A partial B.C. licence plate was obtained of AH974. The unknown driver would have known they had struck the truck. If anyone has any information, please contact the RCMP quoting file 2016-441.

• On Thursday, March 10th, Emergency Services requested police assistance for a report of an overdose at a rural residence. In this instance, thanks to the attending ambulance, the subject was brought back to consciousness and was taken to the Invermere Hospital for observation. Fentanyl-related.

• On Thursday, March 10th, Columbia Valley RCMP was requested to assist the hospital as a result of a heavily sedated patient having disappeared outside and the subject was at risk. This was a different subject unrelated. The subject was located and brought back to the hospital. Fentanyl-related.

• On Friday, March 11th, Columbia Valley RCMP was advised that a patient at the Invermere Hospital had been stealing medication/drugs throughout the day and stashing them in their jacket in an attempt to hide from staff. Police attended and this subject was dealt with. The subject unrelated to the above and was attempting to detox. Fentanyl-related.

As per an Information Bulletin released by British Columbia Interior Health, dated February 29th, 2016, and passed along by Ms. Donna Power of Columbia Valley Victim Services: “According to BC Coroner statistics, there has been a gradual increase in opioid related overdose deaths over the last 24 months across B.C., including communities within the Interior Health. In addition, community agencies continue to receive reports about individuals experiencing fatal and non-fatal overdoses.”

“Get Naloxone Trained, if you or someone you know is at risk of opioid overdose, the Take Home Naloxone program trains participants to recognize and respond to an overdose situation using a Naloxone kit.”

Addiction is tough; become informed. Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment personnel care for the communities and people we serve. We can only help if we are made aware and have the information.

Every life has great potential. It would be tragic to lose a life if we could have prevented it.

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March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

Historical hall remembered

By Dorothy Isted Special to The Pioneer It’s been called the Grand Old Lady of Invermere, for good reason.

Standing next to the nearly 70-year-old structure, a person can feel dwarfed.

Until Invermere’s old community hall was built, larger events were held at the David Thompson Memorial Fort during the summer, with colder weather forcing the use of size-restrictioned PLACE OF MEMORIES —The Invermere Community Hall, formally called the Lake venues at the Invermere Windermere Memorial Community Centre, is to be replaced by the soon-to-be constructed Hotel or Athalmer’s CoroColumbia Valley Centre, for which a fundraising event is being held at the old hall on April nation Hotel.

2nd, featuring the Burn ‘N’ Mahn piano duellers out of Calgary.

In the wake of the

Photo courtesy of the Windermere Valley Museum Second World War, communities all over the counCanadian wages in 1946 being about $125 per month. try were building memorials to honour the sacrifice of Organizers decided to initiate a more assertive campaign many. Invermere had one cenotaph already and people to include former residents. Government money was felt the memorial community hall would be useful granted, the Community Committee Funds bestowed as well. The names of valley residents who lost their $1,500, the Victory Loan Commissions gave $429.98, lives in the Second World War were inscribed on the and the Columbia Valley Irrigated Fruit Company docenotaph alongside those who had died in the First nated $200. A poignant contribution of $500 arrived World War. from the widow of R. Randolph Bruce, the man who A committee was formed in June 1946 and it was called this place Happy Valley and poured so much of decided that Invermere would build a hall to com- his life into it (he remarried after Lady Elizabeth’s death). memorate individuals from Spillimacheen to Canal It was initially estimated the building would cost Flats who had served in Canada’s armed forces during $7,000. At completion, that figure had climbed but the wartime. Only the citizens of Invermere would be can- total donations of $10,500 covered two thirds of the vassed for donations. cost. A loan was acquired to complete heating, washThe first fundraiser was disappointing as the goal rooms, storage, etc. The hall was built with volunteer was not met, though the average donation was between labour, equipment and materials, and took one year. five and 10 dollars — a significant amount in light of Continued on page 8 . . .

BOOSTER SOCIETY

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Tuesday, April 5th at 7:30 p.m. SUPPORT Eddie Mountain Arena ROCKIES In the Mez. The meeting is open to anyone.

HOCKEY! Come out and be a part of the future!

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• Office supplies • Printer ink and paper • Art supplies

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

PERSPECTIVE Historical Lens

Stay avalanche aware in spring conditions

By Nicole Trigg Pioneer Staff

As we move into spring, the sun and warmth up in the mountains hold huge appeal. That being said, just because cold weather survival is no longer requiring so much preparation and effort, this doesn’t mean that the backcountry is any less dangerous. Spring presents new hazards that are not encountered during the colder winter months.

According to Avalanche Canada, March is the worst month for avalanche fatalities. Moving from winter to spring creates significant changes in the snowpack, and weaker layers that have been buried become easier to trigger. And if temperatures stay above freezing for an extended period of time (multiple days in a row), this causes the stability of the snowpack to break down and increases the likelihood wet snow avalanches (wet snow avalanches in the spring typically occur during prolonged periods of warm and dry weather — generally the opposite of mid-winter avalanches that tend to occur after heavy periods of snowfall).

These types of avalanches can amass large quantities of snow, generally start at a single point but quickly fan out and, in steep terrain, they can travel long distances, picking up speed.

On March 16th, Avalache Canada issued a warning for the coming weekend: “If you trigger an avalanche over the next few days, it’s probably going to be big.

These are dangerous conditions and advanced training is recommended to navigate avalanche terrain.”

As reported in The Pioneer two weeks ago, the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue has had a busy season, but they haven’t had to deal with any avalanche-caused fatalies this winter, unlike in regions to the north and southwest of the valley. Just in the last week, two snomobilers were killed by avalanches northeast of Kamploops, and one near Castelgar. If you have plans to sled or skin your way to backcountry bliss in the coming weeks, exercise caution to ensure you stay on top of the snow, not underneath.

Curling on the lake Nothing is recorded about this historical photograph but the scene appears to be of Lake Windermere with the townsite of Invermere in the background. If you have any more information, email us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.com.

Photo (C976) courtesy of the Windermere District Historical Society

Doubtful about thermography Dear Editor: I have a few comments with regards to your paper’s recent article “Alternative approach to breast cancer screening” (March 4th Pioneer) as reported by Brianne Massey and quoting a thermography company spokesperson as well as local naturopath Mike Baker.

One could easily mistake this for an info-mercial of the “benefits” of thermography on breast health rather than a news article investigating a new offering on the horizon for the health of our local population.

When I say “benefits,” I should say, as-yet scientifically unproven benefits for the use of this technology for screening of breast tissue cancers, as well as its dubious claims for prevention of breast cancer.

Unfortunately, the space here does not allow for a full argument/discussion to dispute the claims of

Thermography Clinic Inc. who are trying to sell their testing in a travelling roadshow to the valley. In short, there is no proven evidence for the claims that thermography is a useful screening tool, and, as such, there is not one medical association that promotes or advocates thermography for this use. One only needs to look at the websites for the Canadian Cancer Society, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, or the American Cancer Society, to read unbiased views regarding this particular test.

Of course, any thermography business will be happy to suggest baseline testing at a cost of about $250/test (interpretation included), which is just the start of annual or semi-annual exams as recommended by the company, suggesting that regular imaging start in women as young as 30.

Continued on page 29 . . .

The Columbia Valley

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

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: 1.855.377.0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Dean Midyette Publisher/ Sales Manager

Nicole Trigg Editor

Steve Hubrecht Reporter

Breanne Massey Reporter

Amanda Nason Advertising Sales

Emily Rawbon Graphic Design/ Associate Publisher

Amanda Murray

Office Administrator/ Classified Sales

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

Wetlands survey recruiting Submitted by Rachel Darvill Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey If you think that identifying and counting birds sounds like an enjoyable time, then we could use your help! The Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey is a project that uses extraordinary citizens to gather important scientific data that is currently lacking. There are many important outcomes of the survey, including longlasting community benefits and scientific contributions. Beyond data collection, this community-based project also aims to enhance and preserve the biodiversity and important habitat of the Wetlands through increased awareness (i.e. school-aged education programs) of its ecological significance. This year’s spring migration survey dates are Sunday, April 3rd, Sunday, April 10th, and Saturday, April 16th from 8 to 11 a.m.

Most of our survey sites currently have keen volunteers in place for the spring dates, but there are still a few sites available to survey from.

The Columbia Wetlands stretch from Canal Flats to Donald and it is a huge area to monitor, with much of it being inaccessible. We are working hard to have as much of the Columbia Wetlands surveyed as possible. If you have land within or adjacent to the Columbia Wetlands and want to participate in gathering important bird data, we’d really love to hear from you!

The Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey is in its second year of implementation, and if last year’s successes are any indication of what’s to come, this year will be truly exciting. During our first year in 2015, over 50 people participated in the

waterbird surveys, with 14 on a waiting list. Nearly 15,000 birds were counted during spring surveys and nearly 40,000 birds were counted in the fall. Also, 133 elementary and 43 high school students got involved, as well as several Wings Over the Rockies field trip participants.

The Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey is a five-year citizen science project that focuses on over 50 waterbird species, several of which are species-at-risk. Bird counts occur during each migration: three during spring in April and three during fall in October.

Our overarching goal is that we obtain an Important Bird Area (IBA) designation for the Columbia Wetlands, which would recognize the wetlands as being nationally or globally significant in terms of their habitat importance for birds. Although the Columbia Wetlands are widely recognized as important habitat for birds, there have been no recent surveys done.

With this lack of data, a recent application for an IBA designation was turned down.

Another important focus of the survey is connecting people with nature through the Columbia Wetlands, increasing their appreciation for birds and wetlands. Through this project we also want to determine critical bird habitats within the wetlands and look at potential ways to ensure that habitat is maintained, restored or enhanced.

You don’t need to be a birder to participate in the survey as free training modules are provided to new participants. If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please email rachel@ wildsight.ca or visit www.wildsight.ca/columbiawetlandswaterbirdsurvey.

We want to hear from you Email your letters to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com or visit our website at www. columbiavalleypioneer.com. Mail your letters to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0, or drop them in at #8 1008-8th Avenue. Letters to the editor should be sent only to The Pioneer, and not to other publications. 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 18, 2016

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Village of Radium Hot Springs

Community Notice The March 26th potluck/town hall event at the Radium Hot Springs’ Community hall has been postponed to a future date.

Please visit the Village’s website

www.radiumhotsprings.ca

for information regarding future community events. Thank you.

Considering the population of Invermere was only 500 at the time, this was an incredible achievement.

Old valley names appeared on the hall’s various committees: Cleland, Hillier, Ashworth, Johnson, Tunnacliffe, Weir, Osterloh, Marples, Bell, Frater, Young, Peters, Foyston, Bond.

A dance was held to officially mark the opening on July 1st, 1947 (a sign of the times: tickets for men were twice what the women paid). The building boasted innovative technology — florescent lights — and was given the name Lake Windermere Memorial Community Centre. In the lobby of the hall, a marble plaque was placed naming veterans of both wars.

Town meetings, receptions, various fairs and cultural events have been held over the years in what is generally now called the Community Hall. A fire hall was added to the structure later, which has since morphed into the Debbie Seel Centre.

In keeping with the spirit of the current hall, organizers for the new community hall, known as the Columbia Valley Centre (see www.columbiavalleycentre. ca), are envisioning a place where locals and out of towners can come to enjoy the library, community events, arts

FIRST EVENT — A ticket to the Opening Dance of the Lake Windermere Memorial Community Centre in 1947.

Photo submitted and culture, etc. Fundraisers are being planned to raise money for various aspects of the centre. On Saturday, April 2nd, in the old Lake Windermere Memorial Community Centre, the Burn ‘N’ Mahn dueling pianos will be entertaining patrons for $35 a ticket, along with a silent auction, 50/50 and cash bar. Burn ‘N’Mahn is a live, interactive, all request piano show based in Calgary featuring Brian Burn and Jamie Mahn, who cover every style of music from any decade, from the 1920s to today’s Top 40 hits. Proceeds are earmarked for the new library. Visit www.burnnmahn.com to learn more.

INVERMERE MEDICAL CLINIC

Extended Hours

To better serve our community, we will be offering extended consulting hours.

Starting March 8, 2016 Tuesdays only, until 7:00 P.M. Please call 250-342-9206 for an appointment.

PIANO PIZZAZZ — A fundraiser for the new Columbia Valley Centre will feature the Burn ‘N’ Mahn piano duellers on April 2nd at the old community hall in Invermere.

Photo submitted

EASTER BRUNCH S U N D A Y, M A R C H 2 7

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March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

Easter is just around the corner and we are inviting the young people in our community to begin the festivities! Simply colour our Easter offering and drop off your finely crafted piece of art at The Pioneer office on or before Tuesday, March 22nd at 4 p.m. All submissions will be entered into a draw for two custommade Easter baskets (for one boy and one girl) filled with goodies compliments of It’s A Wrap!

The winners will be announced in our March 25th Easter edition.

The contest is open to children of all ages up to Grade 6.

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

Local Search and Rescue respond for two missing snowmobilers

By Nicole Trigg Pioneer Staff

FEATURING

Kornel Wolak – clarinet & Chris Donnelly – piano PERFORMING LIVE AT

Christ Church Trinity Monday March 21st, 2016 at 8:00 pm Tickets $20 • Students $10

Tickets available in advance at Pynelogs, Tiffany’s Thredz in Invermere and at the Purple Cow Gift Shop in Fairmont or by phone at 250-342-4423 Artists Manager is RICHARD PAUL CONCERT ARTISTS

A report of two Alberta snowmobilers missing in the Purcell Mountains sparked a Columbia Valley Search and Rescue mission in the evening of Monday, March 14th.

A helicopter was immediately deployed to search for the two men, who had planned a weekend at the Olive Hut, adjacent to the Catamount Glacier, then failed to return home when they were expected. Fading daylight and the weather did not allow the helicopter to reach the hut but search and rescue team members were able to speak with other sledders in the area who had been in contact with the missing men. The men had supplies and had been told to stay put if weather conditions worsened and affected visibility. Their vehicle was still parked in the staging area and they reported being low on fuel to the other party in the area.

At first light on Tuesday, March 15th, two avalanche technicians and a search dog returned to the area via helicopter to assess the avalanche conditions and do a visual sweep of the area. Weather again limited access to the glacier and hut so snowmobiles were sent in to try and reach the hut. They found the men in good condition and led them out back to the staging area.

The Columbia Valley RCMP, Big Horn Helicopters and the Windermere Valley Snowmobile Club assisted with the search.

“Travel in the mountains in the winter should not be taken lightly,” said Columbia Valley Search and Rescue manager Steve Talsma in a press release. “We are happy that everything worked out, but things could have been different. Every person in avalanche terrain must have the appropriate safety gear: transceiver, probe and shovel, and be knowledgeable of the areas they are travelling in.”

Mr. Talsma also warned about hazards presented by glaciers such as crevasses and whiteouts that hinder visibility and cause trouble navigating.

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue is one of 80 search and rescue teams in British Columbia. Its coverage area extends from the Alberta border on the east to the height of land in the Purcell Mountains west of the Columbia Valley, north to Spillimacheen, and south to Canal Flats. Search and Rescue is carried out by volunteers and those in need of help are not charged for searches or rescues, but the group recommends that anyone entering the backcountry should take an avalanche safety course beforehand and prepare for the area they are travelling in, as well as check the avalanche condition bulletin and weather prior to their trip.

For the month of March Green fees after 1 p.m. on The Ridge Course will be $30 and $5 of that will be donated to the Westside Legacy Trail.

Call 250-341-3392 or toll free at 1-877-418-4653 for further information copperpointgolf.com

KELLY HRUDEY

& FRIENDS CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer 11 Page•11

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY

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

Food for Thought PAGE 12

TALENT AT T-BAR

PAGE 14 Grade 3 Eileen Madson Primary School student Rebecqa Clarke is thrilled to have her food-themed art chosen for this year’s Art from the Heart poster. See the full story on page 12.

Photo by Steve Hubrecht

Out & About Your weekly guide to what’s happening around the Columbia Valley PAGE 13

Wolak Donelly Duo LIVE at Christ Church Monday, March 21st at 8 pm

Art from the Heart What does ART mean to you? at Copper Point Resort · March 19th - 27th Visit columbiavalleyarts.com for our current events calendar, or call 250-342-4423.

Happy BirtHday to pynelogs!

1914 - 2014 · Celebrating 100 years

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

Student earns poster spot with garden-themed art

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Art connoisseurs and parents may find their stomachs rumbling with anticipation for this year’s edition of Art from the Heart.

The annual display of student artwork has a “Food for Thought” theme this year — a tie in with the national Slow Food conference being held in Invermere this April. This year’s poster winner and Grade 3 Eileen Madson Primary School student Rebecqa Clarke has captured this theme perfectly with her “Tops and Bottoms” piece.

“I’m so excited to have this as the poster,” said Rebecqa, adding the inspiration for it came from reading a story in class of the same name (“Tops and Bottoms”) about a bunny and a bear.

She gave The Pioneer a detailed rundown of the vibrantly coloured garden vegetables comprising her piece, pointing out “there are two radishes, two carrots, a cauliflower and a beet. Everybody in my class had to do the carrots, but after that we could draw anything we wanted. My favourite is the cauliflower.”

Rebecqa used pastels to shade her work, resulting in eye-catching deep orange, beet red, leafy green and sky blue hues.

“In my drawing there are mostly bottoms, but there are some tops,” she said, describing her stylistic choice to make the lower, below-ground part of the root vegetables more prominent than the aboveground leaves and stems.

“I’m going to be at the opening night show (for the Pynelogs exhibit, on Saturday, April 9th) and so will my parents,” said Rebecqa. “My mom is really excited.”

“This really is a beautiful piece of art that works well with the theme and is well deserving of being the poster,” said Art from the Heart co-organizer and Black Star Studios co-owner Natalie Ruby.

The Pynelogs exhibit of Art from the Heart will start on Tuesday, March 29th, but for those who just can’t wait, there will be a pre-show featuring 20 framed pieces of kids’ artwork from the Art for the Heart exhibit displayed at Copper Point Resort from Saturday, March 19th to Sunday, March 27th. See next week’s edition of The Pioneer for the full story on the main Art from the Heart show.

Jake Ian plays Radium

By Breanne Massey Pioneer Staff A 33-year-old Edmonton musician will be performing in the Columbia Valley on Easter Monday.

Jake Ian, a self-proclaimed country road troubadour, will play two sets of original music and cover songs in Radium Hot Springs between 7 and 9 p.m. at the Horsethief Creek Pub and Eatery on Monday, March 28th.

“A colleague of mine played out there before and I really liked the name and history behind that place,” replied Mr. Ian when asked about how the show came to fruition. “The Horsethief Creek Pub sounded like a pretty cool place to play for kind of a rootsy-country singer-songwriter like myself.”

He added the cameo will be his first in the Upper Columbia Valley.

“I thought I’d book a show there,” said Mr. Ian, noting the Monday night show would be starting fairly early. “I’ll be doing two sets as part of my tour as a solo act… mostly my original songs and I’ll throw in a few covers. I like to do some Springsteen covers and some old country classics, but for the most part, I play my own songs. I’m looking forward to it.”

The performance that Mr. Ian has booked in Continued on page 19 . . .

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

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

Out & About Please call 250-341-6299 or e-mail us at info@columbiavalleypioneer.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 only run occasionally.

Monday, March 21st

Friday, March 25th

• 10 -11:30 a.m.: Free Bereavement Information Session at Invermere Columbia Garden Village hosted by CV Hospice Society. Tea and cookies will be served. For more information call 250-688-1143.

• 7 p.m.: SYC trip to the swimming pools. Leaving Youth Centre at 5 p.m.

• 8 p.m.: Pianist Chris Donnelly and clarinetist Kornel Wolak perform at Christ Church Trinity. Hosted by CV Arts. Tickets $20 for adults and $10 for students available at Tiffany’s Thredz, the Pynelogs Cultural Centre and the Purple Cow Gift Shop in Fairmont.

• March 25th - 26th: Link to Rink (more greento-ice action!). For more information, contact the Invermere Curling Centre by calling 250-342-3315, emailing invermerecurling@shaw.ca, visiting www. curlinginvermere.ca or going to “Invermere & District Curling Centre” on Facebook.

• 9 p.m.: Panorama’s T-Bar and Grill hosts Aaron Pollock and his four piece band. No cover.

• 10 - 11:30 a.m.: Invermere Columbia Garden Village.

Bereavement Information Session hosted by the Columbia Valley Hospice Society. No charge; tea and cookies will be served. For more information call 250688-1143.

• 12 p.m.: Soup lunch at the Edgewater Legion. $6. Last Friday of each month.

• 6:30 p.m.: Steelhead Trout Dinner at Branch 71 Legion in Invermere. $17.50. Reservations Recommended. Call 250-342-9517. Meat Draw and 50/50.

• 7 - 9 p.m.: The Reel Paddling Film Festival is the world’s largest paddling film festival, at Panorama Mountain Resort Great Hall. There are amazing short films on all types of paddle sports. Door prizes, raffles and giveaways.

Tickets sold at Panorama Guest Services or online at www.adventurepaddleschool.com • 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.: Valley Forged playing at Farside in Fairmont Hot Springs, no cover.

Tuesday, March 22nd Friday, March 18th • 5 - 7 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre (SYC) YCC Challenges program.

• 6:30 p.m.: Roast Beef Dinner at Branch 71 Legion in Invermere. $17.50. Reservations Recommended. Call 250-342-9517. Meat Draw and 50/50.

• 9 p.m.: Live music by the Swillbillies in Fairmont at Bear’s Paw & Grill. Food & drink specials all day.

• 10 -11:30 a.m.: Free Bereavement Information Session at Edgewater Legion hosted by CV Hospice Society. Tea and cookies will be served. For more information call 250-688-1143.

• 1 p.m.: March 15th - 25th daily “Crafter-noon” at the Invermere Library during the Spring Break.

• 5 -7 p.m.: Join SYC for Cooking night. Join us for Free Food and nutritional education.

Wednesday, March 23rd

Saturday, March 19th • Art from the Heart Art Pre-Show at Copper Point Resort from March 19th - 27th. Displays and offering pre-bidding on silent auction items of the 20 pieces that were donated by the students and framed by Kimberley Rae Sanderson Photography & Custom Art Framing.

• 10 a.m.: Easter Storytime and Crafts at Radium Public Library.

• 10 a.m.: ICAN AGM at the Lakeview Meadows Recreation Centre, 855 Lakeview Meadows Rd. Refreshments served, everyone welcome.

• 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Artym Gallery shows Black and White with splash exhibition by Gallery Artist. Show lasts till March 25th.

• 2 p.m.: Edgewater Radium Health Care Auxiliary, St. Patrick’s Day Tea and Bake Sale at Radium Community Hall.

• 6 p.m.: Meat Draw and 50/50 at Branch 71 Legion in Invermere.

• 7 p.m.: SYC Movie night and free popcorn.

• 9:30 p.m.: Yuk Yuk’s Matt Breslin’s Comedy on Tour show presents Matt Foster and Sweet Derek at the Horsethief Creek Pub. Tickets $10 in advance or $12 at the door.

• 8:30 - 10 a.m.: A Tourism and Hospitality Industry Consultation is being held at College of the Rockies, Invermere. Please RSVP if attending to nmorgan@ cotr.bc.ca.

• 10 - 11:30 a.m.: Free Bereavement Information Session at Canal Flats Seniors Centre hosted by CV Hospice Society. Tea and cookies will be served. For more information call 250-688-1143.

• 5 - 7 p.m.: SYC YCC Challenges program.

• 6 p.m.: SYC games and trivia night.

• 6 - 8 p.m.: Family Easter Egg Decorating Night at the Invermere Library. Drop in for some egg-cellent family fun! Free of charge.

Thursday, March 24th • 10 -11:30 a.m.: Free Bereavement Information Session at Fairmont Hot Springs Lions Den. Tea and cookies will be served. For more information call CV Hospice Society 250-688-1143.

• 5 - 9 p.m.: SYC open gym. Come play sports with us.

Everyone welcome.

• 7 p.m.: Thirsty Thursday Trivia Nights at Fairmont’s Bear’s Paw & Grill. Teams of up to six compete for nightly prizes. $2 to enter and everyone’s welcome.

Saturday, March 26th • 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.: Valley Forged playing at Farside in Fairmont Hot Springs, no cover.

Sunday, March 27th • 10 a.m.: Spring Shakedown Rail Jam at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Ski Hill. Registration at 10 a.m. and competition starts at 11 a.m. Show off your skills and compete for fun and prizes in our 15 and under and 16 and over categories.

• 11 a.m.: Easter egg hunt at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. The Easter Bunny will be hopping through the Resort to hide candy for all the kids. Ages 5 and under meet at the big blue chair by the Hot Springs entrance; ages 6-12 meet at the tennis courts.

Monday, March 28th • 7 and 9 p.m.: A self-described “rootsy-country singer songwriter”, Jake Ian plays at the Horsethief Creek Pub, Radium Hot Springs. No cover.

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14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer The Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley

AnnuAl GenerAl MeetinG Thursday, April 14th, 2016, 6 p.m.

Christ Church Trinity 110-7th Avenue, Invermere, B.C. Open to the public. Any interested parties are encouraged to attend.

Spring Gymnastics Classes Starting April 1st Parented classes walking - 2 and half Unparented classes 3,4,5 years Recreation classes 6 years - 99 years

Good luck to all competitors this spring.

Register online at

www.glacierpeaksgymnastics.com Or call 250-270-0273

March 18, 2016

T-Bar to host pop-rock talent The last time the Jays made the playoffs was ’92 and one of pop star Taylor Swift’s most enduring This coming Good Friday, hits is the song 22. So the duo good music, no… great! music, is wrote the song 92 using the same coming to a ski hill near you. melody as the Taylor Swift song Aaron Pollock and his Calgary but with lyrics related to the team’s based four-piece rock band are set impressive return to form. It was a to put on a stellar free performance hit nationwide and Aaron quickly at Panorama’s T-Bar & Grill on Frifound himself on Global TV and day, April 25th at 9 p.m. featured in the Toronto Star.

Aaron’s band plays bluesy popBut for Aaron, while doing rock music and loves to find the songs like ‘92’ are great fun, he groove in each song they perform. also appreciates the power music “You’ll hear a lot of influence can have on a social level in society. from bands like Red Hot Chili Recently, he started working with Peppers and Sublime,” said Aaron. the Calgary Homeless Foundation, Aaron Pollock “We also draw from acts like Ed and has contributed to their cause Sheeran and Hozier to bring a unique kind of pop sensi- by writing and recording a song about homelessness and bility to our music.” the people dedicated to combating it. The song, Blue But that is not to say they are simply a cover band.

Sky Won’t Break, is set for release this spring.

“We are definitely playing originals, but because we’re “Homelessness in Calgary (and Canada) is an incredgoing to be playing pretty much all (Friday) night, we’re go- ibly urgent issue with such deep emotional resonance for ing to be playing a healthy amount of covers too,” he added. so many, and so I try to do my best to ensure that this song What makes Aaron’s covers unique is that they does this issue justice,” said Aaron. “All proceeds from this choose to put a spin on variety of familiar tunes ranging song will go towards the fight to end homelessness.” from several different genres.

As for the T-Bar show, this will mark Aaron’s first “Our specialty is doing dancy covers of funny rap time performing in the Columbia Valley and he couldn’t songs, and we are really looking forward to showcasing be more excited. “We’ve got a super fun, danceable, highthese to the audience,” he said. energy set, and we have a lot of fun playing. Our goal is for In fact, this past fall, when the Toronto Blue Jays everyone in the bar to be having as much fun as we are!” made their long-awaited return to playoff baseball, AarHe is set to release his debut album within on and another Calgary-based musician, Swift Oliver, the next few months. For more information, visit made national headlines with a different sort of cover. www.panoramaresort.com/events.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

Pano pours out events

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff Panorama Mountain Resort is winding down its season in style, with the last few weekends positively bursting at the seams with events and activities.

“It’s been a spectacular year and we want to end it with a celebration,” said Panorama marketing manager Jamie Hurschler.

Next weekend (Saturday, March 26th through to Monday, March 28th), the resort will mark Easter in a big way, with plenty of activities for kids (and some for adults too) including an Easter egg hunt, egg decorating, cupcake decorating and, among other things, a chance (on Saturday, March 26th at 1 p.m.) for kids to check out the Panorama Fire Department’s fire truck.

For the grown-ups, it’s a full weekend too. Panorama will host the Reel Paddling Film Festival (a compilation of the year’s best paddling film) from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 25th, followed by live music

by Aaron Pollock at the T-Bar and Grill (see the story on page 14).

“There is a lot of paddling here in the summer, with the rafting we do and just in the area in general, so the paddling film festival is a good fit for us and an opportunity to get people excited about the paddling season,” said Mr. Hurschler, adding that Aaron Pollock is “an interesting mix of pop and funk mixed together into a gritty sound.”

On Sunday, March 26th, the resort will hold its final Syndicate Rail Jam of the season.

The fun continues the next weekend with the 29th annual Easy Rider Snowboard Cup, which is being held at Panorama for the seventh time starting Friday, April 1st and ending Sunday, April 3rd. The two-day banked slalom snowboard event (with a Friday night registration) is run by Edmontonbased Easy Rider snowboard shop owner Warren Currie. The event is open to all ages and abilities and features racers heading down a banked slalom course.

“It’s sort of like a snowboard cross course, but you go one at a time. It’s easier and there are no mandatory jumps. The event is built around having fun,” said Mr. Hurschler. “It’s the longest-running snowboard contest in Canada, and the third longest-running in North America. We’re quite happy to have it back again.”

The registration fee for the event — $25 — has not changed in the 29 years it has been running. Friday night will also feature a live show at the T-Bar where the

Burn ‘N’ Mahn duo of Brian Burn and Jamie Mahn will make patrons dance the night away with their interactive, all-request dueling pianos performance (the same act performing for the Columbia Valley Centre fundraiser the next night in Invermere — see page 8 for details). A $5 cover will be charged at the door.

The excitement will culminate on Panorama’s final weekend of operations for the season — Saturday, April 9th and Sunday, April 10th — with the Super Hero Sun Fest. “That is going to be a big weekend,” said Mr. Hurschler.

The Small Town Dirtbags will kick things off at the T-Bar and Grill on Friday, April 8th and then the rest of the weekend will feature the return of some old favourite events that have been on hiatus for a few years — the Slush Showdown and the Downhill Dummy.

The Slush Showdown — in which skiers and riders attempt to skim across a large slush pond at the base of a hill (with the aid of a jump, if they so choose) — was a staple of the resort’s season-end festivities up until 2011, after which the location it was traditionally held in was taken over by the tube park (which has since become the location of the Discovery Quad).

“We’ve now found a new area for the slush pit,” said Mr. Hurschler. “The idea of the event is to see how far you can get across the water. It will be chilly water, but the sun will be warm.”

The Slush Showdown will be in the afternoon on Saturday, April 9th with awards for distance, best costume and best blunder, among others. The Dummy Downhill — in which teams build some sort of sliding dummy and send it down a controlled course – was also a mainstay of the season’s end until several years ago and will also return on Saturday, April 9th.

“It will be a lot of fun,” said Mr. Hurschler, adding there will probably be awards for best looking dummy, best crash, best run by a dummy and so on.

In addition there will be a dual slalom event for all ages and abilities at the resort, running on Saturday, April 9th and Sunday, April 10th.

“On top of all that, the mountain had 60 centimetres of snow in February and so it is still in great shape. It’s going to be a year for the books,” said Mr. Hurschler.

To find out more about the events at Panorama, check out www.panoramaresort. com/events or call 1-800-663-2929.

Our Trail (Part I) Fresh old ideas

By Arnold Malone Pioneer Columnist My dad was born at Freetown, Prince Edward Island on September 11th, 1891. He would have found humour upon first hearing that one of his sons was going to promote a trail for walking. He would be stunned when he learned this interest was real.

My dad left home when he was 13 to help his older brother open a homestead in Saskatchewan. Later, he bought his own farm in Alberta. He never had a pedometer so he never knew how many steps he took in a day. He started farming when the energy source was muscle power, either animal or human.

He began his farming career by getting up early and going to bed late. Each summer day he would walk behind a team of horses, sometimes behind a plow and other times while clearing brush, pulling stumps or harrowing.

For him, spending time and money to build a walking trail would have been something to snicker at.

His life and the world of today have little in common. Today, most people work within walled spaces, often sitting and looking at an electronic screen for long periods.

We can walk along a street and look through windows, but such a walk doesn’t offer the benefits of a trail through nature. We now have a wonderful opportunity to have a nature trail that extends from Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs.

Walking has a lot of benefits. Foremost, it is a desired exercise. Just as important, walking clears the mind, removes us from the rattle of urban noise, and allows us to sense the outdoors as it cannot be done in a car.

Across undulating topography, beside squawking ponds, past nesting birds while taking in fresh air, seeing straight and wind bent trees and feeling the powerful sense of achievement from going the distance is why walking is so inviting. Walking is chicken soup for the soul.

Walking is both fun and therapeu-

tic. So many health issues are better resolved when a person increases their level of physical activity. Soon, with the Westside Legacy Trail, we will be able to walk in an envied setting with vistas that change at every turn. Office persons will soon be able to uplift their sense of awe, free their mind and enhance their health — all of this just by going for a walk. Oh, the joy of it all.

Our Trail has already begun. There are not yet enough funds to complete the whole 25 kilometres this year.

Hopefully that will change. Currently, of the five million required, a sum of $1.2 million has been raised. Our Trail is now eligible to seek grants totalling $1.5 million, leaving $2.7 million still needed to complete Our Trail. This writer urges as many that are able to donate to Our Trail. You can view their excellent web site at www.ourtrail.org.

Such a trail along Westside Road would not only serve our personal advantage, but also be a fine attraction for tourists who may want to come to the valley and walk or bike in nature’s splendour. For those who travel to Calgary from time to time, they might have marvelled at the numbers of people who use the trail from the gate of Banff Park to Canmore. Equally, the citizens of Cranbrook have been happily surprised by the high level of use on their trail from Cranbrook to Kimberley.

We do not live in a homesteading generation where walking was a daily requirement, but we can make this walking trail an inexpensive opportunity for so many. Provide a chance to improve fitness, enhance awareness of nature, and allow opportunities for friendship and association. What a splendid addition this would be for the communities of Invermere and Fairmount Hot Springs.

Be sure to check the wonderful video at www.ourtrail.org.

Arnold Malone served as MP for Alberta’s Battle River and Crowfoot ridings from 1974 through 1993. He retired to Invermere in 2007. Title: Science fair draws a crowd

16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer – Home Renovation

March 18, 2016

Warwick Enterprises toasts silver anniversary

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer Warwick Enterprises Ltd. is celebrating its 25-year anniversary this month. For owner Dave Tomalty, it is hard to believe.

Warwick has been operating in the Columbia Valley since 1990 in residential and commercial construction and is divided into three distinct parts: Warwick Interiors, Warwick Cabinets, and Best Paints. Over the past two decades, Warwick has developed a strong reputation among contractors and customers alike.

Warwick’s key to enduring success? The staff.

“There have been several employees that have all been with the company for many years, and now younger people coming in are making a huge mark on our business and treat it as if it was their own. And, really, these people are the business,” said Mr. Tomalty. “We also have a great group throughout the company that have not been mentioned but are a huge part of our team.”

It may come as a surprise that for Mr. Tomalty, owning the business wasn’t something he thought was meant to be.

“I originally bought the business for a friend in Calgary who had plans to come out to the valley and operate it, but he never made it out!”

Prior to his purchase, the Quebec-born, Ontario-raised Mr. Tomalty worked for a decade in Calgary’s industrial construction industry after graduating from college.

After honeymooning in the valley in 1986, he and his wife Kelly bought a place in Akiskinook in 1988 and, in 1991, started Warwick Enterprises Ltd (named after his grandmother’s Maiden name). Soon thereafter, they made Invermere their permanent home. “Kelly went to work at Windermere Elementary School and I scratched up a few small contracting jobs to start. We built our home for resale 25

years ago and still live in it today. The boys are grown up and gone, so our fridge is full and our house is empty,” Mr. Tomalty joked.

“Many local contractors gave us lots of support early on and continue to be part of our success,” he remarked. “We must also say thank you to Calgary — 80 per cent of our business is the Calgary second home market, and we do a lot of contemporary cottage designs that feature a mix between traditional cabin and urban Calgary style.”

The business has allowed the Tomaltys to be very involved in the community.

Dave spent many years involved with minor hockey and Kelly always volunteered for organizations such as the community’s schools, and coaching figure skating.

“Without the support of the Warwick staff, none of that would’ve been possible,” Mr. Tomalty commented.

Managing the business, however, hasn’t been without its difficulties. “Growing the business can be challenging at times because despite how wonderful the valley is, it can be hard to get people to make the move out here and join the company,” he said.

Yet still, Warwick flourished. Today, there are more than 20 people employed and the business continues to grow. Warwick now sports over 19,000 square feet of showroom and production space — a far cry from its humble beginnings of three employees and a woodshop in an old Catholic Church.

Going forward, Warwick has no plans to slow down. Although no one gets younger, companies like Warwick can and do with fresh new faces taking on leadership roles. While Mr. Tomalty has only a few years left before he retires, with such a strong core group of employees, the future for Warwick remains bright.

For more information about their services, see Warwick’s ads on pages 22 adn 24 and visit www.warwick-interiors.com.

Home Hardware here to help

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Spring has sprung and our thoughts will soon fall to home renovations. Whether your project is large or small, the experts at Home Hardware can help you along the way to make your renovation project a success.

Your home renovation project may be a simple exterior deck replacement or maybe a new deck. Our project sales consultants will help guide you through the planning and design phase. Working with one of our sales consultants takes that unnecessary stress out of what most people consider a dreaded process.

Many of the homes in the valley are now due for window replacements and this is definitely an area where getting expert advice is a must. There are many styles and features available when replacing windows, such as considering triple pane glazing, vinyl or metal-cladded exterior frames, just to name a couple of options.

Another important area to consider is the replacement of the tired old shingles on your roof. So many of us hope and pray that we can get just one more year out of that roof while we forget to consider how much damage might be occurring to our home because of that tired old roof. Shingles and the components that go along with replacing your roof have come a long way.

Let’s move on now to the kitchen space. We have three talented and creative sales consultants available to help plan and design what is always the centre of activity in any home. Along with a full line of appliances to choose from as well, your kitchen renovation project will be a success. While you’re finishing that kitchen, don’t forget to think about re-painting, new tiles and flooring.

So many projects, so little time.

We look forward to meeting with you and discussing your needs.

The Invermere Home Hardware Building Centre is located at 9980 Arrow Road or call 250-342-6908.

March 18, 2016

Home Renovation – The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

New software upgrades RONA’s services

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer Point-of-sale (POS) retail software is increasingly becoming the most critical retail software system deployed by retailers today and is at the heart of enhancing a customer’s shopping experience and driving an organization’s overall sales.

With that in mind, RONA North Star Hardware has been busy at work for the past seven months implementing a brand new, market-leading POS system from one of the world’s largest software companies.

On Tuesday, March 22nd, the system will officially go live after RONA’s entire database of inventory is downloaded into North Star Hardware’s database.

“Our inventory and price data will be updated four times a day,” explained RONA North Star Hardware retail store manager Chris Corey. “(The new POS system) is pretty much the most advanced system on the market right now and allows us to incorporate our vendors at RONA and suppliers we deal with,” said Mr. Corey. “It is the complete package and includes everything from inventory control to sales to accounting and is entirely integrated within the vast RONA distribution network.”

With such a considerable capital and time invest-

ment to implement the new system, making the decision to do it in the first place might have been a tough call, but for Mr. Corey, the opposite is true.

“Our new system is all about making sure we can continue to provide the best service and most up-todate products to our customers at the most competitive prices,” he said. “It will help us to keep fulfilling our corporate philosophy which has always been: big city pricing with small town service.”

What’s more, RONA North Star Hardware will also become nearly paperless. For example, contracting clients will be invoiced via email, whereas before the installation, a lot of the same work was done using facsimile.

However, for the many benefits the system provides, it will also mean more work for RONA North Star employees in certain areas of the business. “There will be more work involved for our staff in making sure the information put into the system is correct. But this will ultimately allow us to do inventory daily and weekly instead of once a year,” said Mr. Corey. “This way we can recognize things like shrinkage and any inventory inefficiencies sooner rather than later and overall is a plus for our business.”

With the integrated inventory, customers will soon be able to place special orders for products that may be on discount in a Calgary RONA, but not available at the Invermere location.

Sales – Service – Support on Heating Systems, Fireplaces & Hot Tubs

“In that scenario, we would notify the customer when the product, maybe it’s a new patio set, arrives here in the store for them to pick,” said Mr. Corey.

Warranties for cash sales will be much easier to track as well.

“For each sale, be it with cash or card, it will be imprinted in our system and easily tracked. Before, it was a problem to give warranties on cash sales, but now that won’t be the case,” he remarked.

Mr. Corey extends a big thank-you to RONA North Star staff for their “dedication and for doing all the necessary homework needed to make the software’s roll out a successful one.”

RONA North Star Hardware is located at 410 Borden Street in Invermere or call them at 250-342-6226.

Hank Pronk House Lifting, leveling and moving Foundation repairs and replacement

Call today for estimate 250-342-1292 hankpronk@live.ca

• New Homes • Renovations

The Fireplace Specialists Come on in and discuss renovation ideas

Drop by our store and visit our showroom.

Free estimates provided by our WETT Certified System Advisor/Technician.

Let the professionals take care of all your needs.

Serving the Valley for over 20 years.

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, B.C. (across from Dairy Queen) (250) 342-7100 info@diamondheatingandspas.com

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

hthcontracting.ca

KYLE MOLL

250.341.5603

kyle@hthcontracting.ca

18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer – Home Renovation

March 18, 2016

Concrete example of great service SPECIALIZING IN DECK AND GARAGE CONSTRUCTION AND GENERAL REPAIRS

Jc

Doug & Cathy Cowan, Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. (W) 250-345-2164 (C) 250-341-1619 RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL DESIGN

JILLIAN COCHRANE

info@cochranedesignstudio.ca www.cochranedesignstudio.ca

2 5 0 . 4 0 9 . 8 7 1 3

COCHRANE des i g n . s t u d i o

DIRTY BLINDS 25% DISCOUNT

on wood or faux wood blinds and pleated shade cleaning.

For all your blind cleaning, installation and repairs call Doug or Cathy Cowan.

250-345-2164 Special ends May 31st, 2016.

By James Rose Special to The Pioneer With over 31 years of experience, Kootenay Paving/ Skandia Concrete has been serving the Columbia Valley with top quality ready-mix concrete, asphalt paving and outstanding customer service. Skandia Concrete offers ready-mix concrete and gravel sales to commercial, municipal, and residential customers in Radium, Invermere, Canal Flats, and the surrounding Columbia Valley.

Services offered include concrete pumping, equipment rental, and specialized winter concrete services.

Skandia Concrete places a large focus on offering outstanding quality and they have proven their ability to meet tight deadlines, strict quality standards, and budgets on a wide range of projects.

“Quality is our highest priority,” said general manager Corey Rokosh, “and that starts right from the top of our organization. We pride ourselves in the quality of all our products and make sure that our gravel, concrete and asphalt are continually tested to perform to the specifications required of our clients.”

Skandia’s state-of-the-art concrete plant is also certified by the BC Ready Mix Association.

“Our quality control department tests all of the various concrete mixes and aggregates continually,” said

Mr. Rokosh.

Skandia Concrete is also pleased to offer sales promotions to help businesses save in this tough economic time.

“With the purchase of our concrete, we now provide 1m3 of Bird’s Eye aggregate for each m3 of concrete sold to help out with any back-fills that customers may need,” said Mr. Rokosh. “This can provide considerable savings to a project and is especially important now given the downturn in the economy.”

Being involved in the communities in which Kootenay Paving/Skandia Concrete operates has always been a part of its corporate philosophy. For example, last year the company organized the first annual Rune Barck Memorial Golf Tournament at Windermere Valley Golf Course in support of the Heart and Stroke Foundation. In total, $10,000 was raised in support of the foundation. “It was a great success and we will be doing it again this year with all proceeds going toward the local community in various forms for various children’s initiatives,” Mr. Rokosh said.

Going forward, Kootenay/Skandia will look to continue offering the highest quality concrete, aggregates and asphalt products to all of their clients throughout the Columbia Valley.

Contact Kootenay Paving/Skandia Concrete by calling 250-342-6500 or visit www.skandiaconcrete.ca.

Skandia I N P U R S U I T O F Concrete EXCELLENCE • Manufactures & suppliers of quality concrete & gravel products • Experience, professional operators and the right equipment to get your job done • Serving the valley for over 30 years

SPECIAL OFFER

• Environmentally responsible • Steamed aggregate beds for top quality year round concrete supply • We stand behind our service, quality and products

Purchase 1 cubic metre of concrete and receive 1 cubic metre of Birdseye aggregate

FREE! (1/4”washed rock. Used as decorative rock, backfill and bedding)

Value $18.75/m3 or $12.50/tonne. Pickup at Skandia (trucking extra)

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C.

Office: 250-342-6500 • Batch plant: 250-342-2812 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

March 18, 2016

Home Renovation – The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

Wedding expo comes to Eagle Ranch

By Breanne Massey Pioneer Staff A wedding expo in the Columbia Valley will showcase the products, services and venues that are available to engaged couples this spring.The first-ever Wedding Blender event will also be highlighting bridal fashion and trends at the Eagle Ranch clubhouse between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 26th.

“We saw a need for the event in the community,” said Fiona Baxter, event organizer. “People can come out to see what the valley has to offer if they are planning a wedding or any kind of (special) occasion. We’ll have previously loved wedding dresses for (brides) to try on… food samples, door prizes and the bar will be open.”

Ten per cent of the proceeds from dress sales will be donated to the Invermere Companion Animal Network (ICAN). “Everybody loves ICAN,” said Ms. Baxter, not. . . ‘Jake’ from page 12 Radium is one stop in a week-long tour through Alberta and B.C. “I’ll be doing Edmonton, then going to Radium, Jasper, Fernie, Kimberley and Cranbrook,” he explained. “When I book tours, I like to have my dates nice and close to each other. Those are all in a row,

ing it’s for a good cause. “It’s a beautiful venue for people to come and see.”

In addition, there is a possibility that a commissionaire will be on site to help couples answer questions regarding their big day. “It’s a good thing for brides who are coming,” she added.

A portion of the proceeds from the ticket sales at the door will also be donated to ICAN. Advance tickets are available as well.

“Tickets can be purchased at the door, but we hope to get them (sold) beforehand too,” concluded Ms. Baxter.

“I’m doing a special draw (as an incentive) for people who purchase in advance. I will be putting together a basket from Sunset Gourmet for the prize up for grabs.”

To purchase a $10 ticket to the Wedding Blender, drop by Cutloose Hair and Tanning Salon at 755 13th Avenue in Invermere before the event or email Ms. Baxter at vendorblenderevents@gmail.com. which is always a bonus for travelling.”

Mr. Ian began performing as a punk rock musician at a young age, but eventually graduated to performing on an acoustic guitar at a series of open mike nights, an experience that changed the way he performs and he began doing solely acoustic music as both a solo artist and with a band.There will be no cover charge to attend the show.

Are you or someone you know

grieving the loss of a loved one?

Bereavement Information Session

How to Help Someone Who Is Grieving

Are you uncertain about what to do or say?

Learn how to understand what they are going through and how you can best support them as they move through the grieving process.

March 21st Invermere Columbia Garden Village

March 22nd Edgewater Legion

March 23rd Canal Flats Seniors Centre

March 24th Fairmont Hot Springs Lions Den

10-11:30 am • Event is Free • Tea and Cookies will be served

(250) 688-1143

Unit 103, 926 7th Ave, Box 925 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 www.hospicesocietycv.com

!

E Z E E R F E C I R P rly bird 2016/17 Don’t miss out on these super super ea ski area season pass prices for our family-friendly

Family of 6 $499 Adult $269 Senior $159

Youth $99 Junior $39 Children FREE 5 & UNDER

eat rates Make sure to get yours now, as these gr 2016. are only available from March 1–April 3, ImmerseYourself

FairmontHotSprings.com Or Call: 250.345.6000

Passes include complimentary access to our legendary natural hot springs all ski season!

20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

New Canadian Tire owners embrace the valley

By Breanne Massey Pioneer Staff The value of creating a positive customer experience at the point of sale is the business philosophy the Cote family is hoping to bring to the Upper Columbia Valley.

Jeff Cote and his wife, Jaimie, recently became the new owners of Canadian Tire in Invermere on February 12th after leaving their Canadian Tire storefront in Ontario where they served the community for two years.

“We moved here from a little town called Forest where we owned our first Canadian Tire store,” said Mr. Cote. He and his wife began managing the Ontario location on September 4th, 2013.

“The way the Canadian Tire dealer network works is that after you spend two years in a store, you’re allowed to start looking at going to a larger store of your choosing if it becomes available and this store (in the Columbia Valley) became available when the owners took a store in New Brunswick,” he said. “We never thought that we’d get the opportunity to come to a place like this, so when it was presented to us, we very quickly jumped on a plane and came down here. We were immediately taken by the scenery and having a nice new store, and we could tell very quickly that there was a great staff here and everybody in town seemed very welcoming. One of the benefits of being a Canadian Tire dealer is that, if you choose to, you get to see the country.”

Canadian Tire is a national retailer that stocks and sells sporting goods, hardware, electronics, housewares, garden and patio

supplies and auto accessories.

“I’m a homegrown retailer — all I’ve ever done my entire career is retail,” said Mr. Cote, adding he spent 16 years working at Loblaws and six years working at Lowes.

“When it comes to retail, I love presenting to my customers a full clean store so we made some pretty significant changes already to the store, from bringing in a ton of new items to keep it fresh for the customer all the time. We’re continuing to expand the assortment every week… to be successful in retail, you have to be aggressive so we’re bringing in a bunch of new businesses.”

In addition, the Cotes will be bringing in new items for hunters such as firearms and hunting accessories.

“We’re going to be carrying a full line of firearms, which we currently don’t have,” said Mr. Cote. “We’re going to have expanded hunting accessories to really give a pro shop feel to the store.”

He emphasized this is not the only change the community can expect to see.

“For the past four years, the store hasn’t been licensed to do ICBC inspections, but we are now,” he said, adding there are ongoing expansions taking place on site. “We’ve added a new drive-thru soil (section) to make it more convenient for the customers to pick up heavy items. We’ll be right there to help load… it’s a customercentric mentality. I run my store the way I want to shop it.”

He was pleased to see the existing staff embrace his hands-on approach and has already welcomed two new full-time staff and expects to hire some part-timers over the busy summer season.

Continued on next page . . .

Spring It On!

NEW DIRECTION — Left to right, Abby, Jaimie, Jeff and Cooper Cote are new residents to the Columbia Valley. The Cotes will be taking a hands-on approach to running the Invermere Canadian Tire location. Photo submitted

Ta r g e t e d I n i t i a t i v e f o r O l d e r W o r k e r s Job Skills Training Opportunity

Who is this for?

Participants must meet the following eligibility criteria: • Unemployed • Aged 55 – 64 (in some circumstances, unemployed workers aged 50 – 54 or 65 and up may also participate) • Be legally entitled to work in Canada • Require new or enhanced skills for successful integration into new employment • Live in an eligible community/region • Be ready and committed to returning to work

What will you get?

DRAW YOUR DISCOUNT

SPRING CLEAN

25% - 45% OFF throughout the store*

SALE

at time of purchase

)

*Previously discounted items not included

Select Lighting, Art & Furniture

40% OFF

mbiente Ahome design elements

SURPRISE

MARCH 12th - 31st

Celebrating our 2nd Anniversary

926 - 7TH AVENUE, INVERMERE TELEPHONE: 250.342.4406

Participants may be eligible to receive: • Class-based skill development – including job searching and career planning • Funding to access training at local educational institutions/trainers • Income support for the duration of in-class training • Targeted wage subsidy for on-the-job training

When is it?

• April 4th - July 7th, 2016

Funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers Contact the Invermere campus today!

250•342•3210 • www.cotr.bc.ca/Invermere • invermere@cotr.bc.ca

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

College seeks input for tourism hospitality program Submitted by College of the Rockies The College of the Rockies Invermere Campus will be conducting community consultations to capture industry needs and data that will aid in the potential development of a tourism hospitality-based academic program with a paid co-op placement and focus on serving an international student market.

The purpose of these consultations is to identify both education and employment solutions for those occupations where labour shortages are expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Our aim is to meet with local tourism and hospitality business owners, stakeholders and hiring managers to gather the following information: 1. Identify key industry skill sets that would aid in program and curriculum development and how it addresses current and future labour shortages and emerging industry skills; 2. Have a list of those interested in working with a co-op placement and provide future program advisory input to en. . . ‘New’ from previous page “I feel very fortunate to be a Canadian Tire dealer and I never take that for granted,” he said. “I want to pass that on to my staff so they can feel the passion that Jaimie and I have for the business when they are exuding that passion as well. I really hope the customers see and feel the difference in the store.”

But above all, the Cotes are excited at starting the next chapter of their lives in the Columbia Valley.

“We never ever thought that we

sure programs are innovative in development and meets the needs of current and emerging industry; 3. Identify international student recruitment markets and ensure services required to meet and satisfy international needs are in place.

We are inviting industry to participate in two ways — by completing our online survey and attending one of our two industry consultation workshops. We encourage you to fill out this short online survey: http://cotr.fluid surveys.com/s/TourismHospitality and attend an industry consultation, either on Wednesday, March 23rd or Wednesday, March 30th, 2016 (see accompanying ad on this page for time and location information). Please RSVP your attendance to the industry consultations to Nicole Morgan at nmorgan@cotr.bc.ca.

For more information, contact project leads Nicole Morgan at nmorgan@cotr. bc.ca or Jessica Fairhart at jfairhart@cotr. bc.ca or call the college at 250-342-3210 ext. 7110. would have an opportunity to raise our children in B.C. and it was an opportunity that we just couldn’t pass up,” said Mr. Cote, while adding his family enjoys living in small communities.

“We’re small-town people… and that’s how we want to raise our kids.”

The Cote family is eager to make the most of living near Lake Windermere and skiing at Panorama Mountain Resort.

“Everything is just perfect for us,” he said, while articulating a strong desire to be involved in the outdoors.

Your Local

Tourism, Hospitality Industry Consultations Invite!

College of the Rockies, Invermere.

Seeking input from all Tourism & Hospitality Operators, Stakeholders & Hiring Managers.

The College of the Rockies, Invermere Campus is currently seeking feedback from the Tourism & Hospitality industry to aid in the development of a potential Tourism & Hospitality based Academic Program with a paid co-op placement and focus on serving an international student market.

We invite you to participate in two ways!

By completing our online survey and attending one of our two industry consultation workshops.

1.

2.

We encourage you to fill out this short Online Survey: http://cotr.fluidsurveys.com/s/TourismHospitality/ Attend an industry consultation.

Dates: March 23rd and March 30th, 2016.

Time: 8:30am – 10am.

Location: COTR Invermere: 1535 – 14th Street, Invermere. BC.V0A 1K4. Room 109 Refreshments will be served.

Please RSVP your attendance to the industry consultations to Nicole Morgan at nmorgan@cotr.bc.ca.

Should you have any questions, please contact the College at 250-342-3210 x 7110.

Denture Service In the privacy of your own home • Full Dentures • Partial Dentures • Repairs • Relines • Rebases

Get your FREE copy every Friday on newsstands near you!

Your greatest investment is worth a second opinion!

glennpomeroy@shaw.ca

Cell: (250) 270-0666 Office: (250) 341-6044 Fax: 866-600-0673

N E W S PA P E R

THE PIONEER

Buying or selling…

MaxWell Realty Invermere 1214-7th Avenue, Invermere, B.C.

Reality: The same money invested in a regular series of small ads will yield bigger results. Call Dean or Amanda at 250-341-6299 to find out more.

Invermere B.C. • 1-250-999-9191 Donald MacDonald – D enturi st

COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Glenn Pomeroy

Myth: One big ad will make a big impression.

Cell: 250•341•1395 Toll Free: 1•888•258•9911 pglassford@telus.net www.PaulGlassford.com

Professionals

Wende Brash Broker/Owner

RE/MAX Invermere Independently Owned and Operated 1022B - 7th Avenue, Box 459 Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0 E-mail: wendebrash@telus.net Fax: 250-342-9611

Office: 250-342-6505 • Cell: 250-342-1300

22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

HERE TO SERVE YOU FLOORING

SERVICES

THE VALLEY’S LARGEST WINDOW COVERINGS SHOWROOM

Visit our showroom!

INTERIORS

Spencer Cotie 250-342-6264 335 Third Ave, Invermere, B.C.

• Roller Shades • Roman Shades • Cellular Shades

For all your flooring needs

• Pleated Shades • Horizontal Blinds • Shutters

Come visit our showroom,

492 ARROW RD., UNIT 1B 250-342-HOME (4663)

Visit us on Facebook and houzz.com

SERVICES

www.valleysolutions.ca valleysolutions@shaw.ca

Judy: (250) 341-1903

• Air Conditioning/Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

SOLUTIONS FOR THE VACATION HOME OWNER SINCE 2006

WETT Certified

• House Checking • Complications • Details

UNIVERSAL DOORS & EXTERIORS

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

Ashphalt Shingles Repairs - Replacement – New Insured Call for Quote

Kootenay Cribbing, Ltd. Established 1976

JOHN WOOD DURAFORM SYSTEM

Box 72, Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

PH: 250-345-2188 • CELL: 250-342-1289 • TOBYWOOD@SHAW.CA

FILTER - IT Serving the Columbia Valley

Registered with the Canadian Water Quality Association Filtration• Purification • Reverse Osmosis • UV

Chris Jones

Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C. 250-345-6231 or 250-688-1325 chris.filterit@hotmail.com • www.filterit.ca

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

PLUMBING Septic Tank Pumping Portable Toilet Rentals

BOUTIQUE VACATION HOME MANAGEMENT RENTAL SERVICES

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, B.C.

Phone: 250-342-7100 Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

P.O. Box 678, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 sheblime2010@hotmail.com

492 arrow rd., unit 1b 250-342-hoMe (4663)

THE FOUNDATION CONTRACTOR OF CHOICE

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

Phone: 250-341-8009

Come visit our showroom,

Darren Ross Cell: 250-341-7727 • Fax: 1-778-523-2426 • poolman-911@hotmail.com

Sheblime Roofing

Westridge Cabinets Dealer ~ Granite and Quartz Counter Tops

Arnold Scheffer 250-342-6700

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential

Aaron Sherban

Kitchen cabinet & counter top SpecialiStS

Sales ~ Service ~ Installation

unidoorext@live.ca • unidoorext.ca

• Vertical Blinds • Automation • Residential & Commercial

“Proven and successful Management and Marketing Services for your Vacation Home” “Trip Advisor Vacation Rental of the Year 2011, 2012 and 2013” NEW SEWER CAMERA

Call or visit online

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

• • •

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

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

Bruce Dehart 250.347.9803 or 250.342.5357

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

HERE TO SERVE YOU PLUMBING

LANDSCAPING

Plumbing • Heating • Electrical

Rigid Plumbing Ltd. Quality you can see!

Andy Charette

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

PHARMACY

LAMBERT-KIPP

P H A R M A C Y LT D .

Come in and browse our giftware

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

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

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

2015

Sue Coy www.decoylandscaping.com

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

250-342-6612

INSURANCE

Lambert

Landscaping & Design • Trucking • Excavating • Civil Earthworks

ELECTRICAL

Lloyd Wilder

250-342-5326 lewilder@shaw.ca

CONTRACTING Invermere and East Kootenay Region

Scott Wilisky

design@gldltd.com • 250-688-0757 w w w. g l d l a n d s c a p i n g . c o m

CONTRACTING New Home Construction

• Journeyman Carpenter • Contracting • Framing/Siding/Finishing • Timberframe • Custom Log Railing & Decks

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

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

250-341-5353 sdcoy@shaw.ca

stwcarpentry@live.ca • cell 250 270 0745

SHOLINDER & MACKAY EXCAVATING Inc.

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

WINDERMERE 250-342-6805

Phil Bibby Journeyman Carpenter

Spray Foam InSulated ConCrete FormS

250.341.1995 philbibby@live.ca

pennerinsulation.com • 250-270-0284

Scott Postlethwaite

Free Estimates

Residential, Commercial Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service For All Your Electrical Needs invermereelectric@gmail.com

1710 10 Avenue – Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 th

N E W S PA P E R

Box 802 | 422 – 14th Street | Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

Call Amanda Nason at 250-341-6299 to advertise your business in our Here To Serve You section.

• • • •

New Homes • Custom Builds • Renovations Big Or Small

FAIRMONT RIDGE RENOVATION

Doors Windows Flooring Painting/ Interior/Exterior • Kitchen Renovations

250-342-5682

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

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

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

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

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

HERE TO SERVE YOU CONTRACTORS

CONTRACTORS

Dale Elliott Contracting • •

Interior Finishing Kitchen and Vanity Cabinets • Countertops • Small Renovations • Decks and Interior Railings

250-341-1182

250-341-7098

Box 424, Invermere B.C. V0A 1K0

Serving the Columbia Valley

www.cabincare.ca

Invermere, B.C.

• • • •

Renovations Decks Finishing Interior/Exterior Painting David Gulbe Mike Bernicot

CARPET CLEANING

Residential & Commercial Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

RR#4 2117 - 13 Avenue

Bus: 250-342-9692

Invermere, B.C.

Cell: 250-342-5241

V0A 1K4

Fax: 250-342-9644 rugclean@telus.net

www.ptarmigan-invermere.com

CONCRETE

SPECIAL OFFER

Purchase 1 metre of concrete and receive 1 metre of Birdseye aggregate (1/4”washed rock) (Used as decorative rock, backfill and bedding)

FREE!

Value $18.75/m or $12.50/tonne. Pickup at Skandia (trucking extra)

1756 Hwy 93/95 Windermere B.C.

Skandia I N P U R S U I T O F Concrete EXCELLENCE • Manufactures & suppliers of quality • Environmentally responsible concrete & gravel products • Steamed aggregate beds for top • Experience, professional operators quality year round concrete supply and the right equipment to get your • We stand behind our service, job done quality and products • Serving the valley for over 30 years

Office: 250-342-6500 • Batch plant: 250-342-2812 • Toll Free: 1-888-341-2221

READY MIX CONCRETE

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.

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

Dean Hubman

Certified Technician

250-342-3052

For competitive prices and prompt service, call: 250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (office) • 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: 250-342-5833 • Cell: 250-270-9444 All products are available at 9120, Hwy 93/95 which is five kilometres north of Tim Hortons

Invermere, BC V0A 1K3 odysseyrestoration@telus.net

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING Visit our showroom!

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

Toll Free: 877-342-3052

Best Paints For all your interior/exterior paint & stain needs

Diana Holland 250-342-7353 335 Third Ave, Invermere, B.C.

Visit us on Facebook and houzz.com

Your Weekly Source for News and Events

N E W S PA P E R

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue PO Box 868, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0 Amanda Nason

Advertising Sales

Ph: 250.341.6299 • Cell: 250.341.1111 www.columbiavalleypioneer.com advertising@invermerevalleyecho.com

SERVING SMALL BUSINESSES IN THE COLUMBIA VALLEY Call 250-341-6299 to discuss your advertising needs.

N E W S PA P E R

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

Pioneer Classifieds S OBITUARY S WITHERSPOON, Alan John On March 10th, 2016 Alan Witherspoon passed away peacefully with family at his side. He was born to John and Winifred Witherspoon on November 25th, 1926 in Outremont, Quebec.

As a geological engineer Alan spent many years surveying mountain ranges in British Columbia including the Columbia Valley. His love for the valley became more permanent when in 1967 he built a cabin in Windermere. This became the family’s summer retreat.

During his successful career he and his family were transferred to England then to Colorado. Alan’s last move was to Germany where in 1991 he retired and looked forward to settling in the Windermere Valley.

Our father had many passions, among those he was a very talented artist, an exceptional woodworker and an avid cyclist.

Alan is survived by his daughters, Deb Witherspoon, Jill (Steve) Fair, son Jim Witherspoon, his grandchildren, Kyla, Scott (Aly) Fair, Brittany Witherspoon and will be remembered by Arlene Witherspoon.

The family would like to acknowledge the doctors, nurses and care aids for their thoughtfulness and professionalism. At Alan’s request there will be no service.

Laura Ellen Millar 1951 – 2016

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Laura Ellen Millar on Sunday, March 6th, 2016 in Radium Hot Springs at the age of 64 years. Laura was born in Brandon, Manitoba on November 2nd, 1951.

Laura is survived by her husband, Craig and son, Graham (Lori) and granddaughter Taryn. Laura also leaves her brother, Angus (Debbie) and nephew, Eric, brother-in-law Iain (Margaret) and niece Erin.

A Service for Laura was held on Wednesday, March 16th, 2016 at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Memorial donations in memory of Laura may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 19 – 9th Ave. S., Cranbrook, B.C. V1C 2L9.

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.

I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.

I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.

I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

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

Pioneer Classified Advertising 250-341-6299

A HUGE HEART FELT THANK YOU To the EMTs, Doctors and nurses for the comfort and care given to Burt. To our families and friends your support has been amazing. The Valley View and staff also amazing. Shawn Murray, Pastor Wayne Frater, Crystal and Valley Christian Assembly Church a BIG thank you. Doug and Greg for your speeches and stories. To everyone else for all of your help, thoughts, and prayers during this difficult time. Forever thankful,

The Smith Family

S OBITUARY S Stephenson, Archie 1919 - 2016 Born in High River and raised on a farm near Cayley, Dad was the son of Jasper and Jenny Stephenson. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Kay, his son Jasper, his daughter Marian, his brothers Herb, Ed and Bill, and his sisters Eleanor Davis and Jean Green.

• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-1312 • Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com • www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

CHEERS & JEERS

CHEERS & JEERS

Jeers to drivers who show no interest in stopping at cross walks while seniors and wheelchair bound people are trying to cross over. Don’t you think we have enough to worry about. Give us a “brake”!

Cheers to Mackenzie Tenta for the awesome birthday cake, you made my day!

A great big CHEERS to the volunteers who pushed our car safely off the highway when it suddenly died in the line up to get past a fallen power pole on Monday night. Also to Kool Country Towing for responding so promptly.

A huge CHEERS to the Invermere Medical Clinic for the extended hours! Nice to be able to access a doctor without going to the ER or taking time off work.

There isn’t a big enough CHEERS for Tanya Smith who donated 8 Jamie Oliver knives (from Sobeys) to the Edgewater Community Hall. All you effort in collecting those stamps is greatly appreciated!

Cheers to the CXL and Lakeland construction crews, paramedics, Windermere Fire Department and all medical staff, involved who assisted with the workplace accident Friday Feb. 26th. Your quick and steady moves were all part of a miracle! From very grateful parents and family!

He is survived by Ross Stephenson (Tracey), Helen Mossing, Marie Coates (Mike), Anne Oncescu (B.J.), 11 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

S OBITUARY S

Dad loved to laugh and he had an awesome sense of humour. He was skillful with his hands and had a wealth of knowledge regarding livestock. His expertise in this area lead to him order buying cattle for other people and a trip to the Toronto Royal Winter Fair. His love of animals and children, and his leadership qualities were what lead to his involvement in 4-H. In fact, when he moved to B.C. he founded a 4-H club in Invermere. He ranched in B.C for a number of years.

Campbell, Lucile May

Dad was a gentle soul, a principled man and a family man who took great delight in his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren and his nieces and nephews. He taught us to take pride in our work, loved to dance, enjoyed listening to music and reading. Playing cribbage was another of his favourite past times. He liked watching hockey and football games, especially when the Saskatchewan Roughriders were playing. He was an avid Rider fan. Dad also enjoyed travelling.

He was an excellent gardener, loved flowers and plants and took great pride in his yard.

We remember Sunday morning pancake breakfasts made by Dad, being taught to old-time dance and learning how to take care of our 4-H Steers including the rudiments of grooming and preparing cattle for show.

Dad was a loyal friend, a loving husband, father and grandfather. We will miss him. Thank you Dad. Thank you Poppa. We love you.

The celebration of Dad’s life will be held at the Senior’s Friendship Centre located at 504 – 7 Street SW, High River, AB on Sunday, March 20th from 1 pm to 3 pm. To express condolences please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes. com. Arrangements in care of Snodgrass Funeral Homes Ltd. (High River) 403-652-2222.

January 28, 1927 – March 10, 2016 We celebrate the life of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother/ Nana, sister, aunt, friend, and her gift of joy for nature and all things creative. Lucile (Anderson) was born in Vancouver, Washington, an identical twin to Marcile. The twins married brothers (Norman James/Jim) and Glen and both families moved to Canada in 1959, then to Invermere in 1963 with GLJ Logging Co. Lucile thrived on church, community, family activities: worship ministry was a passion, she helped build many churches; she was an artist and helped start the first Valley Arts Council, designed sets and costumes for community musical productions; was involved in the early development of Panorama Ski Hill, traveled extensively throughout North America and internationally passing on her incredible enthusiasm for nature and birding to many people.

Lucile is survived by sister Sonja (Jim, Angela), daughters Sue and Jill (Robert), three granddaughters Tasha, Meredith (Dustin), and Juli (Kami), and three great-grandchildren Elijah, Haley Jane, and Freya.

We would like to thank all those who so effectively and compassionately cared for mom over these past years and last days, including care givers from Interior Health/Home Care, Ivy House, and Hospice. Special Thanks to Dr. Theresa Ross and staff for over three decades of extraordinary care…we love you.

There will be a private, family memorial in Vancouver, Washington later in the spring.

Donations may be made to Ivy House or CV Hospice. We would be honoured if you would grab your binoculars and find a bird.

26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

S OBITUARY S William Charles Franson “Willy” 1956 – 2016

It is with heavy hearts that we must say good-bye to Willy.

He passed away suddenly on Thursday, March 10th, 2016.

Willy was the loving husband of Emily, brother of Arnie (Cindy), Randy (Stephanie), Norma (Lawrence) and Roger (Arly) and uncle of many nieces and nephews. Willy was predeceased by his mother Dorothy in 2002 and his father Norman in 2003.

A Celebration of Life for Willy will be held at the Invermere Legion on Saturday, March 19th, 2016 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon, Okanagan/Kootenays Area Office, #4, 1551 - Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9M9 in Willy’s name.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

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

CHEERS CHEERS&&JEERS JEERS Sponsored by

Cheers to the staff at the Hoodoo Grill for the delicious meal and for being so accommodating on such short notice.

Gentle Jeers to people who don’t close their menu when they’re ready to order. Your dining experience can be a lot better if you give your server the right signals.

Cheers to the District of Invermere for the snow removal and sweeping on the pathway system this winter. The presence of these well-maintained pathways make a huge contribution to the livability of our community. If I could make one small request for next winter, it would be to apply a little less of the dirt/gravel mix which can make the surface unpleasant to walk on. I’ve actually noticed people sometimes walking on the road instead of the sidewalk as a result.

Jeers to playing the foreign worker card. Just remember our forefathers were foreign workers who came from all over the world help build our roads and railways and farms.

Some laid down their lives to help make Canada one of the greatest country to live in. Stop blaming foreign workers.

Pages and pages of Cheers to the wonderful people at the Invermere Library for helping an avid reader find and order all the books he loves to read. Our community is so fortunate to have such a great library!

A great big CHEERS to Ed for your generosity and your excellent hunting skills that allow you to be so giving. I really appreciate your gift beyond what words can say!

March 18, 2016

CHEERS & JEERS

GARAGE SALE

COMMERCIAL SPACE

TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT

Double Jeers to blocking by the first bridge below mill on the Columbia where many of us use as a take out for canoes and kayaks where it is off the road and safer.

Garage Sale at Coulter’s, 4909 Meadows Cr., Fairmont Hot Springs.

Sat. Mar 19th, 9 a.m. - noon.

Retail/Shop for sale: Two levels total 2700 sq. ft. Please call 250270-0216 or 250-270-0405 for more details.

Brand new 1,700 sq. ft. Townhome 3-bdrm, 2 1/2 bath with garage, concrete party walls and fenced yard. N/S, N/P. Unfurnished, located off Swansea Rd. $1350/mo. Contact Paul 250-341-8092.

LOST AND FOUND

Cheers to Bob Tagg, winner of the “Person Most Excited for the Start of Golf Season” contest.

Cheers to the Vancouver Foundation, Seedlings Foundation, Odlum Brown and Health Arts Society for bringing the Concerts in Care Tour to Columbia Garden Village and Ivy House. The performers were amazing and our residents, families and staff enjoyed the performances.

Jeers to The Pioneer for allowing last week’s Jeers regarding foreign workers and the Temporary Foreign Workers Program. You should be ashamed of yourself. Did you not stop to think how much hurt these sort of comments may cause. Foreign workers do the jobs Canadians don’t want to do and do it always with pride and commitment and smiles on their faces. Foreign workers have been in this valley for years. It hurts me to know there are people who think ill of them, but it hurts even more that The Pioneer allows such people to air their negative comments in the paper. I myself am a foreign worker and feel let down. I’m all for freedom of speech but not for bigotry-minded ones and certainly not in a community publication such as this.

Cheers to staff at CIBC. I so enjoy your seasonal decorations.

ANNOUNCEMENT 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, 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.

Unit under Barber Shop - Rent $420/mo + utilities (approx. $170/ mo) formerly yoga studio. Email dhboker@telus.net.

CONDO FOR RENT

SUITE FOR RENT

Lost: Black Lab X with white markings. Last seen in Wilmer area on Wednesday March 2nd. Name Tux. Please contact Miles 250-3415767.

Found: Wolf Cup Camp baseball cap outside the Pioneer office. Please call 250-341-6299 or stop by to pick up.

Found: Transmitting radio on Panorama Rd. Sunday March 13th, early p.m. Phone 250-342-0050 to claim.

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 NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE 24 x 36 shop power included, propane heat at tenant’s expense, $650/mo first and last D.D. required. Contact Newhouse Multi Storage 250-342-3637.

For lease: 2,000 sq. ft. office and warehouse space. Located at #5 108 Industrial Road #2. Presently occupied by the Invermere Vet. Phone Leo at 250-342-1177.

Radium: Fully furnished units for rent. Bedsitting, 1-bdrms, 2-bdrms.

N/S, pets negotiable. Call Joan at 250-342-7517 to view and check availability. Rent includes heat, hydro, cable and all linens.

STARTING AT $500/mo.

For rent in Radium, 2-bdrm, 2 bath, lower level suite, W/D, dishwasher, N/S, N/P. $750/mo. Call 250-3423790.

Two suites in Windermere 4-plex.

2-bdrm, all appliances, large decks/ yard, lake views. Pets considered. $850/mo and $950/mo. 250-4097435, shellimilley@gmail.com.

Bright, newly renovated, nonsmoking, 2-bdrm, 1 bathroom lower level walkout suite on spacious acreage available April 1st in Windermere. Open concept, kitchen and living area. All appliances included, large, bright windows and access to a shared attached garage, fire pit in yard.

Asking $750 plus 50% utilities.

No pets allowed. For inquiries or to book a viewing, please contact Derek (250) 341-7781.

Fairmont, on Riverside Golf Course: 2-bdrm, bright walkout suite.

Furnished, W/D, dishwasher. Backs onto 1st tee box. $800/mo plus utilities. N/S, N/P. Quiet Person, References required. 403-7101275.

2-bdrm apartment, close to downtown.

Balcony, shared laundry, N/S, small pets considered, $800/mo. Available April 1st. 250426-9853.

HOUSE FOR RENT Windermere: Bright 3-bdrm home with large yard, pets negotiable, walk to beach, $1,200/mo includes utilities, call 250-342-1048.

Rent-to-Own 3-bdrm, attached garage, fenced yard. Superior quality (concrete party walls) New Buildings located in Windermere. Contact Century 21 Rockies Realty Ltd. for more information 250-342-1161.

For rent in Radium, 2-bdrm, 4 bath, ground level condo. Beautiful views, backs on to The Springs golf course. All appliances, fireplace, fully furnished. 2 car garage. N/S, N/P, references please. $1650/mo, call 250-342-3790.

BEAUTIFUL Sable Ridge Resort, Radium: 2-bdrm luxury condo for long term rent. Fully-furnished and stocked with amenities. Just move in! Furnished with penthouse furnishings, gourmet kitchen, ensuite laundry, queen bed, flat screen TV, Main floor. Fireplace, B.B.Q., underground parking stall, outdoor hot tubs, clubhouse, seasonal pool. Available April 1st. $1000/mo, (heat included) however, utilities not included are BC Hydro electricity and cable. Call or text Joe, 403-909-5544.

Fully furnished in Pinewood.

2-bdrm, 2 bathroom, laundry, 2 parking stalls underground. $900/ mo starting April 1st. Call 403-2642782 or 403-239-6389.

MISC. FOR SALE 3 year old Kenmore white side x side 22 cu. ft. fridge $1,200 O.B.O. Call 403-816-0168.

Double hide-a-bed, 18 Cubic fridge, piano for sale. Phone Joyce 250342-6657.

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

HOMES FOR SALE

For SALE

FIREWOOD

FITNESS

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Support Rockies Hockey firewood.

Larch, fir, and pine split and delivered. Call 250-342-6908.

Zumba Fitness-Julie Parent Aqua Zumba classes are scheduled to begin March 15th, 2016 for a 5 week session. Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 am at Copper Point Resort. For more information or to sign up please contact Julie Parent at 250-3415474.

Part-time secretarial work from home, bookkeeping, client follow up, Windows/Office, social media advertising. 403-519-8268 or patyesh@gmail.com.

Strands Old House Restaurant is accepting applications for a cook/chef two to three years experience in casual fine dining preferred. Evenings and weekends.

Apply to Tony Wood at tony@ strandsrestaurant.com or 250-3426344.

Sonshine Children’s Centre is looking for a permanent full-time Early Childhood Educator to join our team starting immediately.

Please forward your resume to son_shine@telus.net.

Dry/split firewood for sale. Big or small volumes. Free local delivery.

403-404-1577, 250-342-3040 or aranwood@hotmail.com.

VEHICLES FOR SALE Located in Wyndham Place, a 55 plus adult community comprised of 4 town homes, this 2 bedr. plus Den is waiting for you to come and see it! Close to down-town.

2008 Subaru Outback LL Bean Edition, loaded, leather, auto, 6 cylinder, sun roof, 169,000 Kms, $10,900. 250-409-4661.

2009 Ford Explorer XLT, red, excellent condition, 4x4, 203,000 kms, $8,000 O.B.O. 1-403-9991911.

Eric Redeker 250-342-5914 sold@IworkforU.com

RV LOTS RV site at Radium Valley Vacation Resort to rent July 9th - 23rd, 2016. $350 per week or $600 for both weeks. Call 780-460-7522.

Please email classified ads to info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Rockies West Realty Independently Owned and Operated

492 Highway 93/95, Invermere, BC

toll free: 1.877.342.3427 cell: 250.342.1671

Kim Collens

kim@rockieswest.com www.kimcollens.com

Representative

Recipe Of The Week PEANUT BUTTER ENERGY BARS

¾ cup Peanut Butter ¾ cup Honey ½ cup Brown Sugar 1 ½ cups Rolled Oats

1 ¼ cups Rice Cereal 1 cup Chopped Nuts 1 cup Dried Fruit

In a pot combine peanut butter, honey and brown sugar.

Cook over low heat until smooth.

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well.

Press firmly into a pan; cut into bars while warm.

Freeze pre-cut bars for a convenient ready to go snack.

See all my recipes at recipes.kimcollens.com

Home Of The Week

SERVICES

Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Environmentally friendly products.

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

VOLUNTEER/DONATION Volunteer Opportunity

kimberleyrae.ca

photography studio picture framing passport photos …look for the red door behind the Invermere Dry Cleaners!

250-342-5102 Shannon’s Blinds & Designs Thank you for your votes Best of Business Awards!

We are grateful and appreciative of your support and loyalty “Blinds, Drapery, retractable screen doors and more.” 250-342-5749.

Triple J Services * Window Cleaning * Gutter Cleaning * Residential snow plowing * Weekly insurance inspections * Work Safe and fully insured Call Jim Detta 250-349-7546.

Odd Jobs 250-341-8053 Shipshape Cleaning. Specializing in Vacation rental cleans and residential cleans. Reliable personalized and owner operated.

Servicing Invermere, Lake View Meadows, Fairmont, Dutch Creek and all surrounding areas Call Kathi at 250-409-9800 for a free estimation.

Immigrant newcomers need your help. Please consider volunteering as a mentor or join our list of occasional translators.

English tutoring volunteers with EAL training are welcome. The average contribution is 2 hours a week. Contact CBAL Settlement Worker Hannah Wong for more information, 250-341-7188 or windermerevalleysettlement@ cbal.org.

HELP WANTED Invermere Petro-Can is currently accepting resumes for F/T and P/T employment. Apply in person to 185 Laurier Street, Invermere between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, overtime, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week. Overtime after 40 hours.

Minimum several years experience and completion of Secondary School. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure quality of food portions, work with minimal supervision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances. Inspect Kitchens and Food service areas.

Please forward resume to Justin Atterbury by fax 250 342 8889 or email justatterbury@hotmail.com.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Sensational Sable Ridge!

Great value for this sunny 2 bedroom + den condo located on the top floor with great mountain views. First class clubhouse with amenities for the family to enjoy!

$219,900 Furnished

MLS® 2411426

Fiona Millar, AEP Intuitive Reader

250-342-1713 fiona@fionapsychic.com • www.fionapsychic.com

Fairmont Bungalows Housekeepers Positions available. F/T or P/T, students welcome.

Salary 15/hr. Apply 250-345-6365 or bungalows@shaw.ca.

Helna’s Stube is looking for a dishwasher/kitchen help, evening server. Email resume to mail@ helnas.com or call 250-347-0047.

Your Private Connection, an Invermere based property maintenance company, requires a full time Grounds Maintenance Supervisor. Duties include: Coordination and supervision of grounds-keeping and maintenance crews; plan and estimate materials and labour for work contacts; establish work schedules and company procedures. Must have groundskeeping and crew supervision experience; be physically fit; completion of high school and security screening. Wage $17.36/ hour. Contact: Darryl Stettler 320 Borden Street, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K7, Phone 250-342-7622 or email yourprivateconnection@yahoo. com.

Always wanted to work at a golf course?

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is for you. We are always looking for enthusiastic individuals, full-time or part-time to join our Food & Beverage, Golf Shop & Golf Course Maintenance teams. Plus, enjoy free golf all season at our courses.

Apply to David Sheedy at hr@fhsr. com or fax 250-345-6616.

Busy pub in Radium Hot Springs seeking awesome cooks, F/T, P/T servers and bartenders to take care of amazing guests. We work hard but have a lot of fun! Apply in person, by email to horsethiefpub@ telus.net or fax 250-347-9987.

Summer P/T, F/T positions at Leo Burrito/Gerry’s Gelati in Radium starting between May 1st – June 28th. Wage dependant on experience up to $16/hour + gratuity. Looking for someone that can serve food, gelato, cook and prep. Fun atmosphere and many perks including free meals! Submit resume to info@leoburrito.com or call 250-688-0561.

Black Forest is looking for a P/T daytime cleaner. Call, email or drop off resume. 250-342-9417, careers@blackforestrestaurant. com.

Local resort in Radium is seeking a P/T Maintenance Person to assist with general Maintenance concerns. Ideally suited towards a semi-retired individual with a construction background and solid skills. Responsibilities will require an understanding of general construction practices, the ability to work independently and efficiently addressing various dayto-day maintenance concerns as they arise. Hours will vary but are flexible.

Primary Responsibilities: · Handrail repairs · Minor concrete repairs · Fencing repairs · Painting · Rain Gutter cleaning · Door and window repairs, etc. · Perform other duties Position requirements: · Have own transportation · Have own tools · Have current WCB and Liability Insurance coverage in place · Possess good organizational skills · Self-motivated/directed · Journeyman Carpenter considered an asset.

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience and/ or education.

Interested candidates please forward resume with cover letter to: info@alliancestrata.com.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

JOE’s

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY r vin

g the Col

u

m

Se

bia Valley

Community Program Coordinator

This is a dynamic position that uses program planning, marketing, promotion, and outreach activities to connect with our patrons, both inside and outside of the library’s walls. It is a perfect fit for someone who views themselves as creative, adaptable, and a true go-getter. If the thought of being a part of a fast-paced and changing work environment on a daily (sometimes hourly) basis excites you, then we want to learn more about you and your qualifications for this position. For a complete job description and how to apply, please visit invermere.bclibrary.ca/job-opportunities. Applications will be accepted until Thursday, March 24th, 2016.

invermere.bclibrary.ca Columbia Cycle and Ski is looking to fill full-time and part-time positions for a busy store in Invermere.

We are accepting resumes for:

Full-time Bike Mechanic Full-time and part-time Sales Associate – Clothing Required skills: • Bike Mechanic – In depth knowledge of the biking industry • Strong commitment to customer service • Good communication skills • Decision making ability • Dependable and responsible • Experience in the retail industry • Available to work weekends.

Please send resumes to ccycle@telus.net or drop off at Columbia Cycle & Ski, Box 658 – 375 Laurier Street, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

We’re looking for hardworking, energetic and reliable people just like you!

Columbia Valley Arts Council

Assistant Gallery Curator 2016 Season

Early April to end of September 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.

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, promote the arts council, assist 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 2016, but not a pre-requisite.

Interest in arts an asset. Business experience necessary. Mature, responsible and quick-thinking. Some heavy lifting necessary. Strong minded individual but willing to learn and accept directions. Sense of humor a must!

Deadline for applications: March 21st, 2016 Please forward covering letter and resume by email: Columbia Valley Arts Council, Jami Scheffer – Executive Director & Gallery Manager Phone 250-342-4423 • Email: info@columbiavalleyarts.com

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

Associate Manager

Benefits/dental/medical Days/Nights/Weekends No previous experience required.

Key-Holder

Permanent. No previous experience required.

Days/nights/weekends Apply to 471 Arrow Road, Invermere B.C.

h e Pioneer ca T n

take you r do llar With 6,400 copies far in circulation each week, th er your message is resonating

!

with residents and visitors alike.

Phone: (250) 341-6299 Fax: 1-855-377-0312 info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 1-855-377-0312 • info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

N E W S PA P E R

Village of Radium Hot Springs

HELP WANTED

Utility Maintenance Operator

Radium Subway is seeking F/T or P/T positions. Email resume to rpetro@live.ca or call 250-3479988.

Employment Opportunity:

Real Storage, one of Western Canada’s fastest growing self storage providers is seeking business minded trendsetters to join our team.

Our success begins with and endures because of our people. At Real Storage, we seek out talented people and are committed to meeting their career needs as well as offering an environment of empowerment and innovation. Our current expansion into Windermere has opened opportunities for the following position:

The Village of Radium Hot Springs is seeking a Utility Maintenance Operator. This is a wide spectrum position entailing a variety of tasks related to the construction, maintenance, operation and administration of municipal water and sewer utilities, roads, parklands and facilities, buildings and grounds, machinery and equipment, sidewalks, and infrastructure.

Storage Consultant: A customer services and sales driven professional who enjoys a team environment, you will be challenged with delivering products and services that consistently exceed our customer’s expectations.

http://www.radiumhotsprings.ca/content/employment

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

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

Please submit your resume and salary expectations to: Real Storage LP Attention: Human Resources Email: careers@realstorage.ca or info@realstorage.ca

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

The job description, which includes the expected skills, education, and certifications, may be viewed on the Village website: Applicants making sufficient progress towards obtaining the necessary certifications may also be considered, providing the individual is committed to acquiring the qualifications within a prescribed period of time.

This is a non-unionized position based on a 40-hour work-week with the usual hours of work being 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five days per week. This position will involve working during weekends, evenings and holidays when on assigned standby duty or during unusual circumstances. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

The deadline for receipt of applications will be April 1st, 2016 at 4 p.m. Only those applicants short listed will be contacted for an interview. Questions regarding the position may be directed to Ken McDonell, Public Works Superintendent: Ken.McDonell@radiumhotsprings.ca

LaCabina is now hiring full-time Line Cook and Chef available immediately. Please drop off resumes in person, email lacabina@ telus.net or by phone 250-3472340.

Don’t Miss an Issue!

Applications may be sent to the attention of Mark Read at: The Village of Radium Hot Springs PO Box 340 4836 Radium Blvd Radium Hot Springs, B.C. V0A 1M0 Mark.Read@radiumhotsprings.ca

N E W S PA P E R

Read us online:

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

Valley resident bids adieu moved with him.

“It was the time to take that next step and pursue that career development,” he said. “I’m sad to A long-time valley resident is leave, but it’s an exciting opporstriking out for something new, tunity. This is a stepping stone on leaving behind a legacy of many volthe way to my final goal of one day unteer efforts. owning my own store. I want to Jim Collins has lived in the Upthank everybody in the valley. We per Columbia Valley for more than have had some incredible friendtwo and a half decades, and worked ships and incredible memories. much of that time at Sobeys. He These are some of the best people raised his family here and got inJim Collins we’ve ever met.” volved in many worthy causes, but Mr. Collins was a volunteer fireleft last week for a promotion in Sasfighter in Fairmont Hot Springs; a katchewan.

“I’ve worked at (the Invermere) Sobeys four volunteer RCMP constable for 10 years; helped ordays short of 25 years. I started out being a meat ganize the Relay for Life for the Canadian Cancer cutter, worked my way up to meat manager and Society; was involved with the local soccer associathen became an assistant store manager,” Mr. Col- tion as a coach, member of the board of directors lins told The Pioneer. “It (is) a small town, family- and eventually as board chair; and was a member of type business with a hometown feeling.” the Rotary Club of Invermere.

“Volunteering is fun and you meet great peoHe has stepped away from the town and job he loves for the chance to be a store manager in ple. It just feels good to do something like that,” Regina — an opportunity that was too good to he said.

Mr. Collins is originally from the Okanagan pass up, now that two of his three kids (his older boys) have graduated from David Thompson and his last day on the job at Sobeys in Invermere Secondary School. His wife and daughter have was Friday, March 11th.

By Steve Hubrecht Pioneer Staff

Fools seldom Differ (But we dare to be different)

Find our five foolish offerings, then email us your guesses (complete with page numbers) for a chance to win some awesome prizes!!

Read closely, as our prankish pieces can take any form.

In our April 1st edition there are ... entertainingly funny morsels buried within the Pioneer’s pages. Identify them all, then email your guesses to ads@columbiavalleypioneer.com for a chance to win some great prizes! (page numbers must be included)

Contest entries can be emailed between April 1st and April 5th.

The winners will be announced in our April 8th edition.

Thank you to our sponsors: 1988

27

2015

INDERMERE WV ALLEY Golf Course

That’s a fair bit of money spent by the time you are 60, without any research-proven benefit, to say nothing of any further consultation fee to direct any further diagnosis or treatment, and that women still need the proven benefit of mammography as well, so there is no avoiding that bit of necessary radiation.

I am always amazed that people can be convinced that their own family doctor as well as highly trained consultant specialists, including oncologists and radiologists, would blithely disregard a technology, new or otherwise, that could somehow be so beneficial to the health of a population. So who are you to believe: a company making it their business to sell people a test, or your own physician, trained in evidence-based medicine, with a decade or more of university training and your best interests of health in mind?

As with so many things in life, some health issues can come down to a “buyer beware” proposition, especially when it involves alternative treatments and, in this case, testing, which is clearly outside of the conventional practice of medicine. Thermography may safely provide colourful, high tech-looking images, but at this juncture there needs to be large randomized trials if it is to be proven to do anything other than lighten your pocketbook.

Sincerely, Dr. J Hildes MD Windermere

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land

A p r i l F o o l s’

A p r i l F o o l s’

. . . ‘Doubtful’ from page 6

Brewing Company

Take notice that Checkman Holdings Ltd. From Radium Hot Springs, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Kootenay Region, for a License of Occupation for a sewer/effluent line situated on Provincial Crown foreshore on Luxor Creek, near Spur Valley and containing a total of 0.0025 ha.

The Lands File for this application is 4405676. 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 MFLNRO up to April 17, 2016. MFLNRO may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp ➥ Search ➥ Search by File Number 4405676 for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record.

Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

Freestyle skiing fun The Panorama Mountain Freeride Club hosted the 3rd Annual Kootenay Freestyle Classic from March 11th to 13th at Panorama Mountain Resort.

Sanctioned by BC Freestyle, the event featured slopestyle and moguls events.

Clockwise from right: Raina Schnerch of Invermere gives a big grin before tackling the mogul event; Panorama Mountain Freeride Club members Raina (left) and Cole Carey celebrate their Winners Cup for the mogul event; and Brian Burnyeat of Calgary spins coming off a jump on the mogul course.

Photos courtesy of the Panorama Mountain Freeride Club

Join us for these FREE Upcoming CBAL Workshops Surfin’ Seniors Intermediate Computers:

The Art of Keeping a Journal

7 weekly classes starting April 15th in Invermere. 10 a.m. -12 p.m.

4 Saturday classes starting April 2nd in Invermere. 9 a.m.- 11 a.m.

Contact Leanne Brooks to pre-register lbrooks@cbal.org 250-341-5683

I AM COMING BACK! As of APRIL 1st I will be returning to the shop PART-TIME ONLY. My lil guy is only 7 weeks old and I want to have as much time with him as possible.

I will be working: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10-3 p.m.

I look forward to seeing all of you!

TO ALL MY AMAZING CLIENTS:

Dayna 778-526-5020 • Unit A #712 10th St., Invermere B.C. (across from the DOI office)

Community health Invermere’s Mountain Om Yoga and Wellness Studio hosted a therapeutic fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) on Saturday, March 12th. CVCF executive director Laurie Klassen began the evening with a presentation on the organization’s valuable role dispersing charitable funds to groups and individuals throughout the valley community, then a yoga class was led by guest instructor Heather Kowlankowski, which was followed by a delectable feast courtesy of the Circle Cafe, Do Nothing Floatation Centre and Fuze.

All proceeds went directly to the CVCF’s Community Fund. From left to right are Mountain Om owner Kelly Carlson, yoga instructor Heather Kowlankowski, CVCF executive director Laurie Klassen and CVCF chair Roberta Hall.

Photo by Nicole Trigg

March 18, 2016

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

FAITH

The beauty of faith

By Pastor Murray Wittke Valley Christian Assembly If you watch for it, you’ll see the beauty of faith every Lord’s Day wherever believers gather for worship. From the humblest country church, prison chapel and rescue mission to the grandest city cathedral, faith’s beauty is revealed as followers of Jesus trust him with their lives. Just as jewellers use black velvet to display the unique beauty of their gold, silver and precious gems, the Church displays the beauty of faith through lives darkened with sorrow and pain.

Each week as songs are sung, prayers prayed, and tears cried, I catch glimpses of faith’s beauty sparkle and flash all around me. I see it in the lives of parents grieving the death of a child, in men and women who’ve buried

their spouses, and in exhausted single mothers. I watch as faith glitters in the anxious, the lonely and the depressed; and glows golden in seniors contending with chronic pain and memory loss. I see it shine in cancer survivors, recovering alcoholics, and victims of abuse. I see its glistening appearance in those with broken marriages, broken bodies and broken hearts; and watch it gleam in the unemployed and those hoping to keep their jobs. Somehow the stark contrast of simple faith with life’s desperate circumstances magnifies the appearance and beauty of faith.

The Apostle Peter admired the beauty of faith in the lives of persecuted believers in his day and said… “Grief and all kinds of trials have come so that your faith — of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire — may be revealed as genuine and may result in praise, glory and honour when Jesus is revealed.”

Trials and difficulties are not evidence of the lack of our faith, but rather reveal the presence and beauty of faith in our lives. No matter how dark or desperate the days have become, turn your face toward Christ, trust in Him with all your heart and let the beauty of your faith shine!

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, March 20th, Palm Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Worship And Life Instruction “Follow Me - The Disciples’ Commandment” Pastor Matt Moore ministering.

K.I.D.S. Church for children age 3 to Grade 1; and Grades 2-7, during the Morning Service.

Lead Pastor Trevor Hagan • Associate Pastor Matt Moore 326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED Worship every Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Children & Youth Sunday School at 10:30 a.m.

Christ Church Trinity, Invermere 1st and 3rd Sunday, March - Dec. 9 a.m.: All Saint’s, Edgewater 2nd Sunday, 7 p.m.: June - October at St. Peter’s Windermere Reverend Laura Hermakin 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.ca VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Sunday 10 a.m.: Worship Services.

Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Saturday, 4:30 p.m.: at St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats.

Saturday, 5 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

A wonderful woman in need

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. David Morton • 250-417-5017

Invermere resident, mother and wellknown community volunteer Sandy Cook (left, in cowboy hat) has been ill for a number of months and very recently has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma (a rare cancer of the blood plasma cells) and amyloidosis (a condition often experienced by multiple myeloma patients, which targets various organs through a buildup of proteins). She is currently undergoing chemotherapy in Calgary, but she also requires a long course of stem cell therapy treament in Vancouver, which will require travel, back and forth, and accompanied stays in the city. She is unable to work and it’s anticipated the costs will be significant. To help, go to www. crowdrise.com/supporting-sandy-cook/ fundraiser/graemeanderson to contribute to the Supporting Sandy Cook campaign that’s been started to help alleviate her financial burden during this difficult time.

Photo submitted

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service 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 Adam Pasowisty • Columbia Valley Branch 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 250-341-5792

OPEN March 25 Still Hiring

Visit us at www.fairmontfuntasia.com 250 345 4558 on Hwy 93/95, Fairmont Hot Springs, BC

32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 18, 2016

YOUR MONEY Ready to retire?

Considering retirement? Be sure to ask your advisor these questions.

Should I take CPP now or later?

Many people begin receiving their Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payments immediately upon retirement.

This usually makes sense from a cash flow point of view, but may not be optimal from a financial planning standpoint. This decision may include factors such as one’s income during the first part of retirement, age, any severance payments received and part-time work.

Those with a large Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) may wish to draw it down, all or in part, prior to taking CPP. And finally, those who take their CPP pension prior to age 65 will see their benefits reduced by as much as 36 per cent if taken at age 60.

When should I apply for CPP and OAS? CPP and Old Age Security (OAS) benefits should be applied for about six months before one plans to start collecting them, but no earlier than six months prior as the application may be rejected. CPP pension is available from the age of 60 onwards with full benefits at age 65, and OAS is available at age 65.

Should I convert to a RRIF now or later?

An RRSP may be converted to a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) at any time, but with

two important caveats: no further contributions can be made, and the account holder must withdraw a certain percentage of the account each year as taxable income.

The year a person turns 71, their entire RRSP must be converted to a RRIF. With this in mind, the decision to convert early depends on one’s income now and at age 71. Is RRIF income needed now? Will RRIF income result in the loss of income-tested benefits such as OAS? Further, those without an employer-sponsored pension may wish to convert some or all of their RRSP to a RRIF at age 65 to take advantage of the Pension Tax Credit.

Should I review my pension?

Canadians with employer-sponsored pensions usually find that their pensions make up the bulk of their retirement income. Thus, it’s a good idea to review one’s pension about a year before retirement.

Topics of discussion should include the type of pension, monthly payment amounts, spousal guarantees and pension funding assumptions. There may also be an option to transfer one’s pension to a Locked-In Retirement Account (LIRA) to be self-managed. Those lucky enough to have a Defined Benefit Pension Plan usually find they are best left alone, while Defined Contribution Plans are often less favourable and, depending on one’s personal circumstances, may be more suitable in a LIRA.

Should my risk levels change?

Possibly, depending on one’s investment portfolio.

Retirees need their investments to grow, but shouldn’t allow market risk to encroach on their income needs.

Retirees should ideally have one to two years of cash on hand, followed by three years’ worth of low risk, cash equivalents. If these markers are in place, the remaining assets can be invested in a way that produces returns consistent with one’s risk tolerance to provide long-term growth.

What if I run out of money?

There are investments one can buy that ensure they don’t run out of money, but due to current interest rates, these options generally offer historically low rates of income. Other options include part-time work, trimming expenses, downsizing one’s house or taking in a renter.

Am I covered?

Prior to retirement, one’s various insurances and will should be reviewed. Health benefits and workplace insurances could end upon retirement, or there may be a way to continue receiving benefits during retirement.

These are just some of the factors worth considering before retirement. Be sure to discuss retirement plans with your advisor so he or she can help you put a strategy in place.

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

Senior Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Sara Worley CIM®, FCSI®

Investment Advisor Insurance Agent

Bringing Manulife’s extensive estate planning resources to our community

GIC Rates

as of March 14 th

1 yr 2 yr 3 yr 4 yr 5 yr

1.55% 1.78% 1.86% 2.00% 2.18%

*Rates subject to change without notice.

Holly’s Financial Tips “Be careful with back-end loaded mutual funds” Please visit our website to find out why: Holly Jones

invermereadvisors.com

BA,

Investment Associate, Insurance Agent

Manulife Securities Incorporated is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency (a licensed life insurance agency and affiliate of Manulife Securities) by Manulife Securities Advisors licensed as life agents. The Manulife Securities logo and the Block Design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license.

Free consultations! • Ph: 250-342-2112 • Fax: 250-342-2113 • 530 13th Street , Invermere • www.invermereadvisors.com