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Vol. 6/Issue 11

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The Columbia

March 13, 2009

Valley

P ioneer

TEE TIMES

2550-342-05562 250-342-0562

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

grizzly quashed

Manny’s Gold!

Manny Osborne–Paradis of Invermere captured his first gold medal in Norway last weekend, making him a top Olympic hopeful. See Page 4.

3 day care in debt

8 map book here!

Photo by ACA/Pentaphoto

17 2009 Columbia Valley Map Book

giving back? community champs

you could be rewarded.

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better. together.

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

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

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

Valley NEWS

Flea Market Saturday, March 28th Invermere Legion Hall • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lunch: Chili, bun, beverage and desert.

Call Sylvia 250-342-6559 or Edna 250-342-6126 Book tables by Tuesday, March 24 4th.

Monita is back Wednesday, March 18th

Open daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

To book an appointment please call Lyn’s cell at 250-341-5668 STILL HUNGRY—A Great Horned Owl recovering at the Invermere Veterinary Clinic needs more food.

Photo by Cayla Gabruck

This valley gives a hoot

Canterbury Flowers First Anniversary Celebration Saturday, March 21st

20

%

OFF Storewide

• Enter to win a 4 ft. tall tropical plant • Cookies and refreshments

Sandi and Joanne would like to thank everyone for making their first year so successful.

Canterbury Flowers

Located on Main Street in Invermere 250-342-0383 • 1-800-330-9910 E-mail: canterburyflowers@telus.net

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff Valley residents are busy setting mousetraps to help feed a rescued Great Horned Owl being housed at the Invermere Veterinary Hospital.

Since news of the bird appeared in last week’s Pioneer, the vet clinic has received a flood of support for the hungry owl, with patrons pledging everything from cash donations to frozen chicken.

“We got quite a bit of interest the day the paper came out,” Dr. Mark Zehnder, a veterinarian at the hospital said. “We recognize it takes time for people to get their traps out and start catching. But if they have an opportunity to do that – it would be great!”

The vet clinic has already received several mice and more than $100 in cash donations, which Dr.

Zehnder said will be used to purchase frozen mice.

The bird has been recovering at the Invermere Veterinary Hospital since it underwent surgery in February to repair a broken wing. Dr. Zehnder said he can’t be sure what caused the injury, but he speculates that since the owl was found near Highway 93/95, it may have been hit by a vehicle.

The hospital is asking anyone with relatively fresh or frozen dead mice, squirrels, pack rats or birds to drop them off at the vet hospital.

The food must have been trapped, not shot or poisoned, to ensure the safety of the owl from lead and any other toxic substances. Human food, such as frozen ground beef, is also not acceptable.

For more information, please contact the Invermere Veterinary Hospital at 250-342-7007 or simply drop off any donations.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3

March 13, 2009

Valley NEWS

Invermere denies Grizzly Ridge boundary expansion – again

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff In a stunning reversal of its efforts to redraw the district boundaries to include the sprawling lands to the southwest known as Grizzly Ridge, District of Invermere council on Tuesday night voted unanimously against the proposed boundary expansion.

Faced with an all-in or all-out ultimatum from the developer midway through a series of public hearings that gave voice to growing community concern, Mayor Gerry Taft said the council chose all-out.

The decision followed the dramatic 11th-hour cancellation of Monday night’s open house, the second in a series of three, at which the developer and council planned to take questions from the public.

In a press release issued on Sunday, Mayor Taft called for an eight-week freeze on discussions because the district didn’t have enough details about the public parkland, roads and trails offered by the developer.

In its third attempt in five years to convince the District of Invermere to annex the 2,000-acre Grizzly Ridge Properties, the owner of the land, Mark Himmelspach, offered almost 20 percent for public parkland – considerably more than the usual five percent.

If successful, the mayor said, the developer would benefit greatly from access to Invermere’s water supply, the lack of which is a limiting factor to development while the lands lie outside district boundaries.

Responding on Monday to the cancellation of the open house, Mr. Himmelspach said he was undeterred, still supported the boundary expansion and was willing to provide whatever additional information was needed.

“We continue to believe that the boundary expansion creates a tremendous opportunity for the district, its residents and Grizzly Ridge, and will create mutually beneficial opportunities in terms of protection of the environment, the creation of an integrated park and trail network, the creation of well-paying and sustainable jobs, and the generation of local tax revenues.

JI&BRSAIlS

“Broader specific land uses require additional work and visioning in consultation and collaboration with the district and the local community. Grizzly Ridge is committed to working with the district and its residents on a visioning process at the Official Community Planning stage to determine when, where and under what parameters development will occur on the Grizzly Ridge lands, assuming that the annexation is concluded. We await the District of Invermere

“I’m wondering if 10 years down the road we will look back at this and say, ‘You know, it’s another one of those lost opportunities.’”

– Councillor Bob Campsall council’s determination as to the go-forward process.”

However, on Monday, Peter Mulyk of Mercon Engineering, the consultant representing Grizzly Ridge, delivered the ultimatum.

“Peter spoke to us briefly on Monday,” Mayor Taft explained. “They wanted a clear direction. He was concerned about going further with only a weak endorsement or a 3-2 split from council. So he asked, ‘Are you in strong or are you out?’”

Council met privately on Tuesday to discuss it.

That evening, when council met for their regular meeting, Mr. Himmelspach got his answer.

“Whereas the residents of the District of Invermere have stated their desire to see more parkland within the boundary expansion area,” Mayor Taft read from the motion, “and whereas council deems that increased parkland for recreational and environmental needs is an important component to protect the interests of the community, and whereas council does not see the immediate need for further urban expansion areas, be it resolved that council withdraws its support at this time for the boundary expansion which includes Grizzly Ridge Properties.” Moments later, council passed

the measure by unanimous decision.

Councillor Al Miller said the amount and quality of parkland was the deciding factor. “Certainly, as far as I’m concerned, parkland was the number-one component, one of the main topics for discussion, that we had to get through,” he said. “More parkland than what we had on the books is what was needed.”

Councillor Ray Brydon, who has been involved in the discussion for years, added that the land offered by the proponent wasn’t suitable for a public park, but would work better as a wildlife reserve.

Councillor Spring Hawes admitted she didn’t fully understand the implications of such a vast boundary expansion and didn’t feel confident moving forward.

Councillor Bob Campsall winced as he raised his hand in favour of the motion. “I’m going to support the resolution, but I do so with some misgivings,” he said. “I’m wondering if 10 years down the road we will look back at this and say, ‘You know, it’s another one of those lost opportunities.’”

Mayor Taft said he hoped the message to the developer was clear enough and that there are no hard feelings as a result of the decision, noting that the Lake Windermere Official Community Plan calls for threeway discussions between the Regional District of East Kootenay, the District of Invermere and Grizzly Ridge should they decide to pursue further subdivision through the Regional District of East Kootenay.

Former district planner Meredith Hamstead, who delivered an impassioned plea for more detailed discussions at the last council meeting, said her goal was not to defeat the proposal, but to get people to think more seriously about it.

“The opportunities and risks associated with the Grizzly Ridge expansion are not gone,” she said. “The reasons why the people I represented were catalyzed into action are not gone. You can’t say, ‘Just because Grizzly Ridge lies outside our boundaries, we can forget about it.’ It’s a regional issue.”

She suggested the community continues to think about the issues, so that it might have the answers by the time the developer applies for further subdivision

FREESTYLE SNOWBOARD COMPETITION SUNDAY, MARCH 22ND AT NOON.

Registration and warm up from 9:30am. $5 + lift ticket.

CO-SPONSORED BY FAIRMONT RENTALS & REPAIRS fairmonthotsprings.com

4 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

Life Time Warranty on all Blinds Call The Blind Guy!

Interior World

(250) 342 4406

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THANK HANK HANK K YOU YO YO

The Invermere ermere Senior Women’s e Curling Team wo would like to sincere cere erely THANK K the following o Groups and Indiv Gro dividuals div who supported ed them during n their participation partici in th the 2009 Senior ior or Provincial Playdowns a at Cloverdale Clove BC. • Invermeree CCurling Club • Ra Radium Hot Spr prings Lodgee pr • Ladies Cur urrling Club • Wind ndermere Golflf Course nd • Lake Windermere nd Liooons Clubb • Rob DDunn • Fairmontt Mountainsiide i • Ray NNeratko Villas • Debb bbie Nault bb • Fairmont VVaacation Villas • Va Valley Vision Scr creenworks cr

Barb Fassnidge Connie Watson Marline Buchanan Maddie Jenkins

He’s done it!

Manuel Osborne-Paradis has claimed his first-ever World Cup gold medal and is now a hair away from representing Canada at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games.

The 25-year-old alpine ski racer needs only one more top 12 finish next season to secure his spot at the games.

Manny enjoyed his best weekend ever, with podium finishes in two downhill events – one gold, and one bronze – in Kvitfjell, Norway.

“It was a big thrill,” Manny said. “It’s great to be in a league with people who have won downhill races and I hope to have a few more in my career.”

This is Manny’s first-ever gold medal in his four years competing in the World Cup circuit. He covered the 3,035-metre Olympiabakken course in one minute, 47.09 seconds – just 0.31 seconds ahead of silver medallist Michael Walchhofer of Austria.

“It’s nerve-wracking,” Manny said. “You have to wait for the other guys to finish and you’re just waiting at the bottom of the hill biting your teeth, hoping that no one beats you.”

Manny followed up his golden finish with another medal in another downhill event the following day.

He completed the course just 0.46 seconds behind gold medallist Klaus Kroell of Austria.

“Back-to-back top tens and to be on the podium again the next day . . . I am ecstatic about it,” he said.

Manny rounded off his World Cup season this week at the World Cup Finals held in Are, Sweden, placing 11th in the last downhill event of the year.

He finished the season ranked the fifth best downhill skier in the world, boasting three podium finishes, including another bronze in Val Gardena, Italy in December. Manny has been on the podium six times since he began racing in the World Cup Circuit in 2005.

Ranked 14th only a month ago, Manny said he knew his goal of a top ten finish was well within reach, but he never imagined he’d finish in the top five.

“Fifth in the world is a pretty big accomplishment

and to build on that before the Olympics is a big positive,” he said.

Racing at the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver would be Manny’s second shot at an Olympic gold.

He made his debut appearance at the 2006 Olympic Games in Torino, Italy. He placed 13th, but said that experience, combined with his knowledge of the Whistler course and confidence from a great World Cup season this year, will aid him in his quest to win gold on home soil.

“I feel good,” he said. “I feel really confident on skis, and I know what I am doing out there. I look at sections, of course, and know the fastest way to get around those gates.”

Born on February 8th, 1984 to Jane Osborne, an interior designer, and Jacques Paradis, a movie set director in Deep Cove, a suburb of North Vancouver, Manny grew up in Deep Cove with his mother and his step-father Bill Scott, a retired radio technician.

Manny, who owns a condo in Invermere, moved to the valley at the age of 15 to race with the British Columbia Ski Team. He graduated from David Thompson Secondary School in 2003.

He began skiing when he was only three years old.

His grandfather, the late Jim Osborne, was a doctor in Whistler. The two, along with his mother Jane, spent many days on the mountain slopes.

Manny’s grandfather passed away last summer, but Manny said he would have been thrilled about his first-place finish.

“He was always one of my biggest fans – always the loudest guy on the side of the hill,” he said. “He definitely would have loved to see it. He was always talking about how cool it would be to win one day and that he knew I would do it.

“There were a lot of people who believed in me: sponsors, family, friends – everyone. To accomplish that and have a lot of people witness it and celebrate it with me is a big deal.”

With his final downhill race in the bag, Manny will return to Canada this week for a few days before heading off to Whistler for a two-week training session on the Olympic course. For more on Manny, visit his website at www.manuelracing.com.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 5

March 13, 2009

Hospital ER upgrade to proceed ahead at an appropriate point.”

Hoping to send the message back to the ministry that that the people of the East Kootenay are commitJust in time to be included in the Kootenay East ted to the project, the Kootenay East Regional HosRegional Hospital District’s 2009 annual budget, B.C. pital District Board, on Friday, included in its 2009 Minister of Health George Abbott gave the nod to the financial plan the potential to borrow $1.76 million much-needed and long-sought $4.5 million renova- to help fund the project. tion of Invermere Hospital’s emergency department.

“The upgrades to the emergency room at the Athough a formal announcement won’t come Invermere Hospital are a top priority for both the until April when the deKootenay East Regional sign phase of the project Hospital District and Inis complete, Mr. Abbott terior Health,” board chair “I think the people of told the legislative assemJohn Kettle commented.

Invermere can be very bly, “I think the people “We hope by making this of Invermere can be very financial commitment in confident that this project confident that this project our budget that it sends will be moving forward.” will be moving forward.” a strong message to the Responding to quesMinistry of Health and —Hon. George Abbott tions posed by Columbia the residents of the CoB.C. Minister of Health lumbia Valley that we are River-Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald in the committed to seeing this afternoon sitting of legisproject happen.” lature on February 25th, Mr. Abbott said, “The anMLA Macdonald said the commitment made nouncement will be made at an appropriate time, when by the Minister of Health to move forward with the all issues are resolved. But [the people of Invermere]. upgrade to the Invermere Hospital emergency room can be confident, given the priority given to this and results entirely from the efforts of the people of the investment made on planning for it, that it will go Invermere. Doctors, patients and local politicians have

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff

all been active in raising the issue.

“It is through effective representation and the willingness of residents to fight for what is right that decisions are made to benefit communities,” Mr. Macdonald commented. “Without that work, it would have been too easy for this government to ignore the need here in the Columbia Valley.”

Mr. Macdonald is encouraging people to keep the pressure on by writing letters and signing the petition currently circulating through the valley urging the Ministry of Health to allocate the funds.

“We will hold the minister to his word and will be watching for the announcement in April,” he said.

District of Invermere Mayor Gerry Taft applauded the move by the hospital board and thanked the people of the East Kootenay for their support of the project.

“This has got nothing to do with partisan politics,” he said. “Some real work and efforts have been put in by our MLA Norm Macdonald and also Mark McKee, the Liberal candidate. Both individuals through different means have been making lots of phone calls and putting a lot of effort in. We’ve also had the support of John Kettle, the chair of the hospital board, and also Interior Health has been very supportive. Not only is it the top priority in this area, it’s one of Interior Health’s top priorities in the entire region.”

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6 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

perspective

Historical Lens

March 13, 2009

Ice cave

Two men with four horses are seen through the opening of an ice cave at Starbird Glacier, beside Horsethief Creek, in about 1939 or earlier.

It is believed that this pass was first crossed by Thomas Starbird, whose ranch, Starbird Ranch, was a rendezvous point for climbers coming into the district. If you have information about Photo C1444, email wvmuseum@cyberlink.bc.ca.

Photo courtesy of Windermere District Historical Society

Big bankruptcies hurt small businesses

By Pioneer Publisher Elinor Florence We hear a lot these days about bailouts. The government is prepared to cover off some major debts incurred by banks, mortgage companies and moneylenders – the list goes on. The latest proposal, which will be paid for with our tax dollars, is a $4-billion bailout for automobile workers in Ontario.

But what about small businesses that will never get paid when big businesses go under?

The Resort at Copper Point is a good example.

Their bankruptcy created a ripple effect that will probably touch most people in the valley. Not only are the contractors who worked directly on the project suffering from the loss, but now they can’t pay their own suppliers and employees.

This was a blow that will hurt everyone sub-

stantially, and will put some people out of business altogether.

In many ways, sub-trades and building contractors are the backbone of this community. Carpenters, painters, electricians, plumbers, roofers, painters – think about how many of these people you know, work with and socialize with.

They may have been born here, or they may have moved here for the employment, but they are now part of the permanent fabric of our society. They own homes here, their children go to school here, and we want to keep them here. It will not be easy for these workers to pick up their tools and move somewhere else, nor do we want them to.

These are skilled employees who work hard for their money. In spite of all the jokes about our tradespeople being on “valley time” (meaning they are usually late or work short days), I’ve never found

our trades to be anything but hard-working and dedicated. During the busy season when everybody wanted them, they weren’t off fishing or spending time with their kids – they were putting in 12-hour days, seven days a week.

It’s completely unjust that they should bear the brunt of other people’s mismanagement. And they don’t have the collective clout to beg the government for a bailout.

Although it’s one of the first, and hopefully the largest business to declare bankruptcy, it won’t be the last. The Pioneer has received notices of several bankruptcies recently, including The Place Furniture. Our local business, too, is affected, since bankrupt companies can’t pay for advertising.

Since we are the only locally-owned newspaper and our profits stay in the community where we live and work, what affects one of us affects all of us.

The Columbia Valley

Pioneer is independently owned and operated and published weekly by Abel Creek Publishing Inc. Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Phone (250) 341-6299 · Fax (250) 341-6229 Email: upioneer@telus.net · www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

The material, written or artistic, may not be reprinted or electronically reproduced in any way without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions and statements in articles, columns and advertising are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff of The Columbia Valley Pioneer. It is agreed by any display advertiser requesting space that the newspaper’s responsibility, if any, for errors or omissions of any kind is limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the space as occupied by the incorrect item, and there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for the advertisement.

Elinor Florence

Brian Geis

Sally Waddington

Cayla Gabruck

Dave Sutherland

Zephyr Rawbon

Michele McGrogan

Publisher

Editor

Reporter

Reporter

Advertising Sales

Graphic Design

Office Manager

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 7

March 13, 2009

Make sure your 911 call is really an emergency Dear Editor: As a volunteer member of the Fairmont Fire/Rescue and as an Auxiliary RCMP Constable, I’ve had the opportunity to listen to conversations about many things that the media reports about, the most recent being what the RCMP responds to and does not.

The public is so quick to pass judgement on those of us whose jobs are community-related and in the forefront of the community eye, such as the RCMP, Fire/Rescue, and Ambulance. If one can pass judgement so quickly about decisions these people have to make on a day-to-day basis, do they feel that they could make a better decision?

My question to you is: why do you not consider joining one of these agencies, since you seem to think it is so easy?

These people put their lives at risk each time they respond to a call. These are the services that you may need to call upon one day. We have limited resources (manpower) and if those men and women are tied up on a minor issue, they may not be available for the real emergency!

For example, on March 6th, 2009, all three services were dispatched to

a motor vehicle accident just south of Fairmont. The only information was a caller who witnessed a car in the ditch.

So three services responded to something that ends up being nothing!

There were two vehicles involved in the crash and the drivers were exchanging information when we arrived. To their amazement, they saw emergency vehicles coming towards them.

Now, I thank the person who called it in, but I wish they had stopped to see if assistance was needed in what ever form, rather than jus call something in and keep driving.

As you can see by this example, personnel from all three services are now way south of Invermere. What if a real emergency had happened in the north end of the valley? Wouldn’t you want them to be there as quickly as possible?

Remember, we need information for doing our jobs, so please don’t get frustrated with the dispatchers when they are asking you a lot of questions.

It’s for the safety of the men and women who respond to these events, whether it be the RCMP, Fire/Rescue or the Ambulance. I have a family that I need to go home to, and so do the rest.

Robin Dupuis, Fairmont

Restrict Albertans to mountain bikes?

Dear Editor: It was good reading Cara Bissonnette’s accurate comments on our beloved Alberta drivers. I made similar statements at the Skins Spiel last year in Invermere. I welcomed them to our lovely valley and then jumped on their driving habits, and I went on and on.

I believe they are worse than the Quebec drivers, if that’s possible. I know this from my own experience, as I lived in New Brunswick for over 20 years.

Correction

They owned the centre line, front tires on each side, straight or curvy roads, it didn’t matter, and of course, pedal to the metal.

The majority of the Alberta drivers are good people and great neighbours.

Too bad those wild speed merchants weren’t restricted to mountain bikes.

This would be a safer place to live, without a doubt.

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The website reported last week in the article about the new gymnastics coach was incorrect. For information on the gymnastics club or any sport in the Columbia Valley, please visit www.cvrec.ca.

www.nanofibre.ca • (250) 347.2424

8 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

Childcare society running out of cash “If we raise fees, it makes things difficult for some parents.”

Windermere Valley What they have come Childcare Society is in up with is this: a permathe red and it is seeking nent sign will be consupport from local busistructed at the entrance nesses. to the centre, which is Operating since located under the school 1976, the childcare socidistrict office on 4th ety offers day care, infant Street. care, out-of-school care Businesses who sponand pre-school. Twelve sor the childcare society staff care for about 155 will receive a space to adchildren a month who atvertise on the board. tend the Invermere cenThe sponsorship tre, and the society curranges in price from a rently has a waiting list of $250 “Baby Bear” space, 75 children. to a $1,000 “Goldilocks” But provincial fundspace. ing cutbacks in 2007 “If people aren’t means the childcare soaware that we are strugciety receives $2,000 less gling, they can’t help. each month.

If they are aware, they To make up for that might be open to conLong-time childcare manager Arlee Romane is pictured surrounded by members of her preschool class. drop, in 2008 the society tributing,” Ms. Romane raised fees from $3.25 an said. the society for 25 years, said the centre is still losing hour to $3.50 an hour The letter inviting about $1,500 a month. Instead of raising fees again sponsors was sent out last week, and already Ms. Roper child.

In addition, a spring dance, trike-a-thon and bake this year, the board of directors decided to approach mane said she has had three businesses commit to a sale are held each year, which together raise almost local businesses. space.

“We were looking for a method that is beneficial to $5,000.

To pledge support to the Windermere Valley But manager Arlee Romane, who has worked for the society and the community,” Ms. Romane said.

Childcare Society, call the centre at 250-341-3168.

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff

“I love working at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.”

“I work at the Ski Hill in the winter and the Mountainside Course in the summer. It’s a fun place to work and I love the free golf and other benefits! — John, Mountainside Golf Course

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

t Server t Dishwasher t Front Desk t Pools

t Bartender t Sous Chef t Housekeeping t Guest Services

t Cook t Esthetician t Grounds Maintenance t Pro Shop Attendant

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

fairmonthotsprings.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 9

March 13, 2009

The Place in receivership: furniture to be auctioned

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff An auction is being held this weekend to sell off the remaining stock at The Place furniture store in Invermere.

Owners Don and Glenda Townsend closed the store, located on 13th Street next to Sears, in November.

They had previously closed their first location on 7th Avenue where Valley Spas is now located.

Letters posted on the closed doors of the store say that the owners, Don and Glenda Townsend, are $23,669.39 in arrears on rent.

“I just heard that they can’t afford to be there,” said Mary Frances Shaw, owner of Invermere Sears next door to The Place. “We’ve had tons of people come in and ask what happened to them.”

On November 28th, Interior Bailiffs notified the Townsends that their entire inventory is now the property of the landlord, operating under the busi-

ness name 1099026 Alberta Ltd. On February 6th, Don Townsend filed for bankruptcy in Kelowna. The next week, his trustee D. Thode & Associates sent a notice to creditors, listing Mr. Townsend’s assets and liabilities.

Among his creditors are 14 financial institutions and 12 furniture manufacturers. The total debt is $483,328.07.

According to D. Thode & Associates, Mr. Townsend’s assets are $600 cash, $1,500 in household furniture, a $35,000 Ford Edge and a $20,000 Pace Shadow trailer. However, the car and trailer are already pledged to lenders.

Now Interior Bailiffs is conducting an auction of the remaining stock and fixtures of The Place, on behalf of the landlord.

A public viewing of the furniture, beds, artwork, vacuum cleaners and home accessories will be held at the store on Saturday, March 14th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The auction will be conducted on Sunday, March 15th at 11 a.m.

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10 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

Province asking valley communities to make way for power lines “WORKING TOGETHER FOR COMMUNITY SUCCESS” The Columbia Valley Community Foundation is accepting Limited Funding, Spring 2009 Grant Applications from registered charities which support projects that enhance the quality of life of the residents of the Columbia Valley, from Canal Flats to Spillimacheen.

Deadline for applications: April 30th, 2009 The Board will make grant decisions by May 29th, 2009 Granting guidelines and application forms may be picked up at Smith, Green & Andruschuk Chartered Accountant’s Office, 1229 – 7th Ave., Invermere.

For information on the granting process, contact Jenny Richardson, 250-342-9822, email ggjrichardson@hotmail.com ggj @ or Nancy Ballard, 250-342-3252, email yrral@telus.net y @ Applications accepted by mail c/o Columbia Valley Community Foundation, Box 991, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

Windermere Valley Childcare Society • • • • • • • • • • • • •

THANK YOU…

Fusion Day Spa Royal Lepage Home Hardware Sobeys AG Foods Pharmasave Invermere Inn Dairy Queen A&W Subway Tim Hortons Quality Bakery The Bargain Store

• • • • • • • •

Panorama Ski Resort Portabella Restaurant Eagle Ranch Golf Course Copper Point Golf Course Strands Restaurant Freshair Design Lambert Kipp Pharmacy Chisel Peak Medical Centre • Invermere Family Chiropractic • Kicking Horse Coffee • The Dollar Store

We could not have done this without all the support from all of you! Thank you for making our dance such a big success. Thank you all for all your generous donations!

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Provincial authorities are intending to cut a wide swath through the valley to make way for new and upgraded power lines to help supply Golden’s growing need for more juice.

BC Transmission Corporation Project Manager Deepak Anand appeared before the Radium Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday to outline the project.

The upside, he said, is that all of the communities along the route will benefit from the added capacity.

As part of the plan, the substation serving the Village of Radium is being considered for a $6-million upgrade from 12 to 25 kilowatts.

The problem, he said, is that Golden needs more power.

“There is tremendous load growth in the area,” Mr. Anand explained. “There is a need for power in this region and that demand is not going to go down.

This project is required and there is a real need for it.”

Already, the BC Utilities Commission, which regulates the transmission corporation, has approved and budgeted for the definition phase of the project, but it hasn’t yet signed off on the estimated $100 million needed to complete the construction phase.

“If it’s not approved by the commission,” he said, “I would be surprised.”

As early as next year, he said, load growth is expected to exceed the 69-kilovolt line that extends north to Golden from Invermere.

The line, he said, supplies Athalmer, Radium and other substations along its route to Golden. Existing substations along the way are reaching capacity limits and need to be upgraded.

Four options have been identified, including a submarine line that would travel the length of Kinbasket Lake underwater.

The transmission corporation, he said, even explored the possibilities of locally generating the power by run-of-river hydro, biomass and geothermal methods, but concluded that upgrading the transmission

line from Invermere to Golden is the lowest cost solution over the shortest distance.

The upgrade would boost the capacity from the current 69 to either 138 or 230 kilovolts. It would be more accessible for construction and maintenance and is deemed to be the more reliable alternative due to its travelling across the lowest terrain.

The project, he said, will require a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity and tenure from the Integrated Land Management Bureau for new right-of-way across the largely unspoiled crown land through the north end of the valley.

“We need the community’s support to do this work,” he said.

The next steps of the project will involve community consultation.

A couple of rounds of open houses, beginning in the spring of 2009, are in the planning stages.

The transmission corporation, he said, will attempt to involve all the communities from Invermere to Golden, including environmental groups, and will focus on defining the route of the proposed transmission line.

Consultations with the First Nations and environmental studies have already begun. The Tuesday meeting began the introduction phase of the project.

Community open houses are scheduled for April and June.

The corporation, he said, hopes to apply for final approvals in October and begin construction in the spring of 2011 in hopes of meeting the targeted inservice date of October 2012.

The BC Transmission Corporation is a crown corporation established in 2003 to plan, build, operate and maintain the province’s transmission system. It is independent of BC Hydro, but, like BC Hydro, reports to the Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources and is regulated by the BC Utilities Commission.

For more information, please contact Community Relations Coordinator, Judy Dobrowolski, 866-6473334, or e-mail judy.dobrowolski@bctc.com.

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Page 11

What’s Happening in the Columbia Valley

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

PAGE 12

PUB CHANGES HANDS

PAGE 18

Out & About Watertown is the title of this beautiful painting by Min Ma; meet him this weekend, along with painter Andrew Kiss, at Artym Gallery. See Page 15.

Cinefest@Pynelogs • Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Outsourced · Wednesday March 25. Doors open at 6 pm - show at 7 pm.

Refreshments available.

CV Arts AGM • Pynelogs Cultural Centre

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

What does ART mean to you? Marc Atkinson Trio Concert • Christ Church Trinity Thursday March 26 at 7 pm. Call for tickets 250-342-4423.

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

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

12 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

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

Movie Review: Oscar-winning ‘Milk’ Moscone were assassinated by a disgruntled co-worker in 1978. By that time Harvey had helped enact local legislation that ensured that people could not be discriminated against based on their sexual preferences.

Harvey’s work inspired countless others, and in death he became a veritable martyr of the Gay Rights movement.

As played by Penn, Harvey is exuberant and energetic, a larger-than-life character who is as tirelessly devoted to living a full, joy-filled life as he is to furthering his cause. Harvey runs a camera shop by day, enjoys listening to opera in the evenings, and surrounds himself with people who are as dedicated and energetic as he is.

Notable performances are also turned in by James Franco (Spiderman) and Diego Luna (Y Tu Mama Tambien), who play two of Harvey’s love interests.

Franco plays Scott, a thoughtful man who loves Harvey but leaves him when the spotlight of Harvey’s increasing fame becomes too bright. Luna plays Jack, a mentally unstable abuse victim whose end is nearly as

Reviewed by Dave Sutherland Milk, a bio-pic based on the life of activist and politician Harvey Milk, is an engaging and entertaining, tragic, and ultimately uplifting film.

Sean Penn, in an Oscar-winning performance, stars as Harvey, who, as a recently out-of-the-closet gay man, moved to San Francisco with his lover in 1970.

Harvey became politicized when he encountered gender prejudice from local businesses and brutality from the city’s police force. He quickly realized that the homosexual community would have to organize in order to attain basic rights and a measure of respect.

From his base in the Castro neighbourhood, which became a centre of gay and lesbian lifestyle in the early ’70s, he helped mobilize the community and forge alliances. Harvey ran for political office three times, failing on each occasion, until finally being elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, the first openlygay man to do so.

Both Milk and San Francisco mayor George

Friday, March 13 – Tuesday, March 17

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1310 - 7th Ave. • Invermere • Call: 250-341-3344 Got an entertainment, sports or news tip? Give us a call! 250-341-6299

Gone

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I D E O

The Snowflake Gala takes place Saturday, March 14th at Eagle Ranch Golf Course Clubhouse.

Tickets are $25 and there will be a few available at the door. We have over 70 items, from small to large, in this year’s silent auction.

These include dinners at local restaurants, golf at local courses, premium wines and unique sporting experiences (how about a para-gliding flight? A flight in a sailplane?).

We also have some fine art items and collectors’ items including a men’s size large sweater from the 2006 Torino Games Opening Ceremony and historic photos of Panorama Resort.

The highlight of the evening will

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tragic as Harvey’s.

Josh Brolin (W) turns in a mannered but effective performance as Dan White, the San Francisco city supervisor whose own mental issues lead him to murder.

Other key roles are ably acted by Emile Hirsch, as budding activist Cleve Jones, and Allison Pill, as Harvey’s tough-minded campaign manager. Joseph Cross is Dick Babich, who along with many others was inspired to continue his activism after Harvey’s death. There isn’t a false note in the performances.

Milk was written by Dustin Lance Black (TV’s Big Love) and was directed by Gus van Sant, who is as equally adept with blockbusters (Good Will Hunting, Finding Forrester) as he is with art-house hits (My Own Private Idaho, Elephant).

Don’t miss Milk.

New Releases March 10 1 Milk 2 Rachel Getting Married 3 Transporter p 3 4 Cadillac Records 5 Role Models

New Releases March 17 1 Seven Pounds 2 Twilight g 3 The Tale of Despereaux p 4 Punisher: War Zone 5 Elegy

be a Live Auction for a weekend at Nipika Mountain Resort.

There’s something for everyone and lots of one-of-a-kind items and experiences that you cannot buy anywhere else.

The Silent Auction will close at 8:30 p.m. and the Live Auction will take place just prior to that. The doors open at 6:30 p.m.

There will be a variety of appetizers served (included in ticket price) and a cash bar. The Arabian Mountain Spice Belly Dancing Troupe will perform starting at 8:30 p.m. and dancing will begin around 9 p.m.

This promises to be a stellar social event and proceeds will benefit the Panorama Mountain Freeride Club, the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club and the Purcell Alpine Event Club.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

March 13, 2009

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar Scene • entertainment • performance ARTS make a St. Patrick’s Day craft. Ages two to five years.

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

• 2-4 p.m.: Valley GoGo Sisters hosts the third annual St. Patrick’s Day Tea and Bake Sale at Christ Church Trinity, raising money for the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmother to Grandmother campaign.

• 6:30 p.m.: Snowflake Gala Silent Auction/ Fundraiser at Eagle Ranch Golf Clubhouse. Hosted

by Toby Creek Nordic, Panorama Freeride and Purcell Alpine Event Club. Tickets $25.

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

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

Toby Theatre • 7:30 p.m.: March 13th-14th: Inkheart • 7:30 p.m.: March 18th-21st: New in Town

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

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

• Showoff freestyle weekend at Panorama Mountain Resort. Starts 7 p.m. Friday with Syndicate Rail Jam in front of the Great Hall Deck; continues 1 p.m.

Saturday at Little Showoff Slopestyle in the SmallMedium Terrain Park; 5 p.m. Saturday with Showoff Big Air in the Showoff Terrain Park; and ends 1 p.m. Sunday with Showoff Slopestyle in the Showoff Terrain Park. For info: www. panoramaresort.com.

• 6-9 p.m.: Opening reception for Artym Gallery’s Andrew Kiss and Min Ma exhibition. For info: 250-342-7566. Artists will also be in attendance on Saturday, March 14th from 1 to 4 p.m.

Sunday, March 15th: • 11 a.m.: Public Auction at The Place Furniture, 516-13th Street. For info: 250-489-0898.

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

Visit www.theblushingbride.ca.

• 1 p.m.: St. Patrick’s Day Shoot at the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club. For info: 250-341-3254.

Monday, March 16th-March 18th: • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Spring Break Sport and Recreation Camps for kids, kindergarten to Grade 5. Held at J. A. Laird Elementary School. Cost $99 plus GST. For info: 250-342-8737.

Monday, March 16th:

Saturday, March 14th: • 9 a.m.: Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance hosts a grant-writing workshop for Columbia Basin Trust at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. For info: 1-877-5057355.

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

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

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: “Back to the Farm,” a children’s program at the Radium library. Stories, songs and

• 3-6 p.m.: MLA Norm Macdonald holds a Meeting Day at Best Western Invermere Inn. Call 1-866-8704188 to make an appointment.

Tuesday, March 17th: • Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Angus McToogle’s.

Celtic music line-up headed by Siofri (Pat, Leisa, Joe and Bernie) and guests Mike, Fraser and Bruce.

Special three-course menu at $26 per person.

Reservations only. For info: 250-341-6868.

• 1-3 p.m. East Kootenay Brain Injury Support Group meet in the Valley Connection room off the Family Centre. For info: 250-344-5674.

• St. Patrick’s Day bash at Bud’s Bar and Lounge.

Thursday, March 19th: • 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Arts annual general meeting, Pynelogs Cultural Centre. For info: 250342-4423.

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

• Grass Roots perform at Copper City Saloon.

Saturday, March 21st: • 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.: Supper and Sounds at Meet on Higher Ground Coffee House, Radium.

Asian fusion menu with the house band, featuring Kathleen and Scott, and guest singer and songwriter Paige. Tickets $20. For info: 250-347-6567.

• 7 p.m.: Hart to Heart Ministries at Radium Christian Fellowship. Mike, Denise and Michelle Hartmann-Echterling from Chickasaw, Alabama.

Also speaking on Sunday at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. For info: 250-347-9937.

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

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

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

Wednesday, March 25th: • 7 p.m: “Outsourced” will show at Pynelogs Cultural Centre for Cinefest. For info: 250-342-4423.

• Ladies of the Canyon perform at Copper City.

Thursday, March 26th: • 7 p.m.: Columbia Valley Cycling Society Annual General Meeting at the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. For info: www. columbiavalleycyclingsociety.org.

• 7 p.m.: Marc Atkinson Trio at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere, in Columbia Valley Arts’ Performing Arts Winter Series. For info: 250-342-4423.

“On Course” This week at Eagle Ranch…

Casual and Fine Dining – Enhanced

Pre-Paid Golf Cards On Sale Now! $ 9000 + Tax

Do you have what it takes to be an ‘Iron Eagle?’

Play 18 holes April 2-29 and receive a second round, same day for only $69.00! Springtime specials for groups Limited time offer, until March 31st. Some restrictions apply. of eight or more! Call for specific program details!

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

14 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

East Kootenay Wood Stove Exchange

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

For more detailed information, contact your local municipality, RDEK, or program coordinator at 250.342.8881 or amanda@wildsight.ca

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Invermere seeking partner to help save historic CPR Lodge

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff In a rare split decision, the District of Invermere Council said it would not purchase and move the historic Canadian Pacific Railway Lodge on Fort Point to save it from destruction.

The 1920 log structure, also known as the Weir house, is slated for demolition if someone doesn’t step forward to move it from its current site, which is listed for sale.

Last year, the Windermere District Historical Society wrote to council supporting the preservation of the lodge, but asking that it not be moved to the museum because of a lack of space.

Council voted whether to purchase the property this week. Ironically, the three older councillors, Ray Brydon, Bob Campsall and Al Miller, overruled the two younger councillors, Spring Hawes and Mayor Gerry Taft, who argued to save the structure.

Councillor Brydon said there is no suitable place to relocate the building, that it would be difficult to move and would require a lot of improvements to use it on a year-round basis. He added that moving the structure would cost around $85,000.

Mr. Campsall agreed.

“It doesn’t reflect a lack of concern or connection to our past,” he said. “It just reflects a whole lot of complicating factors that came into play.”

Councillor Hawes said she is holding out hope the building can be saved.

“I know it’s a really complicated issue,” she said, “because it is an older building and it might be difficult to find an appropriate use for it, but at the same time, I think it is a really valuable piece

of our history in Invermere and we have very few historic buildings that have been preserved or are even still around.

I’m still hopeful that there will be some way that we can find a use for the building,” she said.

Mayor Gerry Taft echoed her sentiments exactly.

“I think it’s a nice, old building,” he said. “Yes, old buildings can be expensive and, yes, they can be headaches, but it’s got some really cool features.

“We call a building from 1919 or 1930, or even one downtown from 1950, we call that an old building. In other parts of the world they would laugh at us, but this is what we have for history.

“When you stand inside this building and look up at the open rafters and the brick chimney — and it’s set up as an open hall about 40 feet by 40 feet — you see there could be some function to it. It could be some useable community space. A lot of the activities and the meetings that occur in our community hall don’t necessarily need an entire hall or 6,000 square feet. Sometimes they just need a little space and this 1,600square-foot building could be that space. It could be a valuable community asset.”

Kinsmen Beach, he said, would be the perfect place for it, with the railroad running nearby.

“I felt that, if we could bring the land and the capital, some group could bring the enterprise.”

In the end, Councillor Brydon said he would change his vote and side with his younger counterparts if a community group would come forward with a plan to save the lodge. Otherwise it will be torn down.

THE STATION PUB & GRILL g y g p y specials. Join us Tuesday for ST. PATRICK’S DAY celebrations! veaway of two ski passes to Panorama. Draw date is St. Patty’s day.

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 15

March 13, 2009

Andrew Kiss, Min Ma here at Artym Gallery this weekend Submitted by Deanna Berrington The Artym Gallery The Artym Gallery is pleased to present artists Andrew Kiss and Min Ma, here for a dual exhibition opening the evening of Friday, March 13th from 6 to 9 p.m.

Both artists will also be in attendance on Saturday, March 14th from 1 to 4 p.m.

With more than 50 brand new paintings from these two renowned artists, the show promises to be a rousing success.

Andrew Kiss considers himself to be a realist painter with a difference: “It is realism achieved with not painting details, but using texture and light,” Kiss said.

His vibrant landscape paintings “evoke a memory of a hike or a family camping trip or a special place where one has spent time.”

Andrew wants his paintings to take you back to a place you remember and love when you look at them.

More than any other artist, people look at an Andrew Kiss painting and say, ‘Hey, I know where he painted that!’ or ‘I’ve been there!’

“Contemporary and always changing” are the words Min Ma uses to describe his own paintings. “I also like to use vibrant colours.”

A vital aspect of his landscape and street scenes, Min uses colour in his work to set the mood and captivate the viewer.

Min is a very versatile artist, painting many differ-

ent subjects, and he said his “greatest challenge is to be a better artist with each and every day.”

Min recently took part in the Artym Gallery annual plein air show (Mountain Sketches).

Not often an artist who paints on location, Min had a wonderful time at the show and said, “My most memorable time painting was last year painting en plein air at Artym.”

Although it is difficult for Andrew to imagine doing anything else, as he has been painting for 40 years, he could never get too far away from the outdoors.

In another career, he said he would probably have something to do with conservation.

Min said in another career, he would still need to create: he would probably be working in architecture, because it also has a creative element to it.

Both painters agree their favourite part about attending shows is the people: they get to meet other artists and people who are also passionate about art and who share their interests.

As for being a professional painter, Andrew said it best: “I’m grateful for having the opportunity to make a living at what I love to do, and to share with people my visions of landscape.”

Please join Min Ma, Andrew Kiss and everyone at the Artym Gallery this Friday evening for the opening reception of this incredible show. Both artists will also be in attendance on Saturday afternoon.

If you can’t make it in to see the new paintings in person, you can view them online at www.artymgallery.com.

Andrew Kiss & Min Ma Exhibition

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16 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

Rocky River Grill opening at Super 8 St. Patrick’s Day Sale GREAT EARLY SEASON SPECIALS IN THE GOLF SHOP COME MEET OUR PROS.

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(250) 342-3004 LEADERSHIP Training Program July 4th to 11th, 2009

ARE YOU 18 TO 25 YEARS OLD? OR

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff A new licensed family restaurant is opening at the Super 8 Motel near the Invermere crossroads.

Rocky River Grill will open on April 1st and offer unique pasta dishes, creative salads, flatbread pizzas, steak and burgers.

The 100-seat restaurant is owned by three friends: Justin Atterbury, Jason Powers and Michael Richards. Their company, Interspire Holdings, also owns Invermere’s Dairy Queen franchise, MicRidge Auto Rentals and icemaking business Zero Ice. They will open Rocky River Grill on their five-year anniversary of moving to the Columbia Valley from Nanaimo.

The space at Super 8 used to be a Humpty’s restaurant franchise, then it was Kelly’s, but the business closed down in 2006.

Justin, Jason and Michael said they decided to open Rocky River Grill in answer to demand from the community.

“We talked to people in the community about what they thought was

needed, and this idea came up again and again,” Michael said.

Although they talked about converting the Dairy Queen location, eventually the trio decided to open a second restaurant.

“This is the first business we have started from scratch,” Justin said. “The economy is giving us a positive fear. We have to get our A-game on.”

After talking to their customers and friends in the area, they are confident it’s a wise move. “We believe in our market research,” Michael said. “We think the valley will respond well to our concept of a high-end atmosphere with great food and prices.”

The restaurant will have a striking feature: a 780-gallon aquarium. There will be 60 seats in the family dining area, and 40 in the lounge.

Head chef Mary Holgate will lead the way in the kitchen. Owner of catering company Chef on the Run, Mary worked as a chef at Copper Point for four years. She has lived in the Columbia Valley for six years, and has a 28year career as a chef.

Rocky River Grill will be open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

DO YOU KNOW A YOUNG ADULT WHO POSSESSES an OBVIOUS (or perhaps not-so-obvious) POTENTIAL FOR LEADERSHIP? The Rotary Club of Invermere offers a scholarship to attend a one-week leadership-training program, with all expenses, accommodations and meals provided.

The camp will be held from July 4th to 11th, 2009, at Selkirk College Campus in Castlegar, B.C. (transportation assisted) RYLA (Rotary·Youth·Leadership·Award) y p is led by skilled facilitators, who with your peers, will challenge and support you on a wide range of leadership topics.

The individual and group participation promotes both fun and the development of life-long friendships with other young men and women; Canadians and Americans from District 1050 and from around the world.

Apply pp y to qualify. q y You must be bet ween the ages of 18 and 25, have graduated from high school, and have the whole week, Saturday July 4th to Saturday July 11th to dedicate to RYLA. Applications will be accepted - by email or mail - until noon March 31st, 2009.

Applications can be picked up at Bank of Montreal, Invermere Branch or requested by email to more@tygconnectingu.com yg g subject: RYLA. Applications should include 2 references and a letter to Rotary – telling us who you are, what you have to offer and what you want to learn at RYLA. Short-listed candidates will have an interview scheduled early April and chosen candidates will be notied April 30th, 2009.

If you would like further details, please contact any Invermere Rotary Club member or Crisanna MacLeod at more@tygconnectingu.com or Andy Stuart-Hill at (250) 342-0186.

Rotary Club of Invermere, Attn: C. MacLeod, A. Stuart-Hill P.O. Box 76 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 Or email: more@tygconnectingu.com

MLA Meeting Day Monday, March 16th 3 - 6 PM Best Western Invermere Inn Please call 1 866 870 4188 to make an appointment

www.NormMacdonald.ca Norm Macdonald MLA Columbia River - Revelstoke

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 17

March 13, 2009

The only valley guide you need

By Pioneer Staff The 2009 Columbia Valley Map Book is here – ahead of schedule, in time for spring break, and well in advance of this year’s tourist season.

With complete maps of every community in the valley, including Golden and Kimberley, it’s the only guide you will ever need to find your way around.

And it’s the best way to promote your business to potential clients.

The Map Book is both the largest and smallest guidebook in circulation – the largest, because it has 100,000 copies. That’s 50 percent more copies than any other local tourist guide published.

It’s also the smallest, because the digest-sized guide is perfect for carrying in your pocket, purse or glove compartment. And with the growing competition for space in business racks and counters, it’s easier for businesses to handle. The high-quality glossy cover means that the Map Book never gets dirty or wrinkled.

Now in its 14th year of existence, the Map Book contributes to the community in another way as well.

This year the cover features a beautiful acrylic painting entitled Invermere Overlook, by local artist Mark Sharp. Residents will recognize the familiar shape of Chisel Peak in the background.

Giclée prints of Invermere Overlook are for sale at the Artym Gallery, and part of the proceeds will benefit the new Columbia Valley Rescue Vehicle.

In previous years, funds from the Map Book Cover Project have gone to the Royal Canadian Legion, the Summit Youth Centre, the Windermere Valley Museum, the Family Resource Centre and the Invermere Public Library.

Inside, you’ll find the following great features: • A description of each valley community; • An introductory article describing the history of the Columbia Valley; • A two-page description of the Upper Columbia Greenways, a network of trails that will eventually link Golden to the new “Source of the Columbia Greenway” walking trail in Canal Flats; • Descriptions of Day Trips from the valley, both north to Golden and south to Cranbrook; • An extensive list of Things To Do, and an Events Calendar; • A complete list and description of every Golf Course in the valley; • A list of local Accommodations ranging from campgrounds to hotels; • A Dining Guide showcasing some of our valley’s best restaurants;

• Articles on both the Radium and Fairmont Hot Springs, and a guide to Valley Spas; • An article about the famed Stolen Church in Windermere; • A two-page article on the centennial of local mountain guide Conrad Kain, whose arrival in the valley will be celebrated with a round of events in 2009; • A list of contacts for visitor information; • Finally, a complete set of updated maps with street indexes.

“It’s always an exciting day in our office when the new Map Book arrives,” says Publisher Elinor Florence. “This year we think it’s an especially useful and attractive publication.”

Locals and visitors alike love the Map Book and already there is a waiting list for the new issue.

“I’d like to remind everyone that not only can you refer to the Map Book itself, but you can also go to our website and download any of the maps for your personal use,” Elinor said.

Distributors are now busy delivering Map Books throughout the valley, and sending them to Visitor Centres across Western Canada and the northern U.S. If you would like to stock the Map Book, or want a copy for your personal use, call us at 250-341-6299 or email upioneer@telus.net.

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18 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

BIG CHANGES IN STORE FOR THE STATION PUB ––The Station Neighbourhood Pub and Eatery is now under new management. Ben Reed and Cathi

Jakubiz, pictured here, along with Brent Miller, took over the pub this week, located near Kinsmen Beach in Invermere.

Keep reading The Pioneer for updates.

Where cas ual fi ne dining embraces old worl d Japanese traditi ons.

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dream big eat fish We will have a great new location in May 2009

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

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

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:: Our Last Night at Greywolf is March 28 : : Fubuki Sushi would love to extend a thank you to all who made Fubuki Sushi the hottest new little restaurant in the Valley.

:: fubukisushi.com :: :: re-opening in May 2009 in Athalmer : : With an extended, authentic sushi menu and a Japanese wine list.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 19

March 13, 2009

Columbia Valley Homes Magazine: your first-class local building guide In fact, there has probably never been a better time to build locally.

Three years ago, our staff had another Several large developments in the valley bright idea: create a product specifically to attracted a group of extremely talented and help customers who were planning to build professional contractors, and they are here to their own homes. stay.

In 2006, we published the first Columbia The economic slowdown means that these Valley Building Guide. It contained articles people are available and eager to go to work. about planning, building and decorating your You can find many of them in Columbia new home in the Columbia Valley.

Valley Homes.

The Building Guide was so popular that With 20,000 copies printed and distribthe following year, we expanded it into a fulluted around the valley, the magazine can be sized, glossy, 40-page magazine and renamed found at local businesses, hotels, real estate This beautiful Invermere home was created by Quiniscoe Homes. it Columbia Valley Homes. offices, and anywhere potential homeowners Photo by Kyla Brown might visit.

For the past two years, the magazine has appealed to people who are not only building, Many users who pick up the magazine to choose from, but there are also still many people but buying their dream homes in the Columcomment on the quality of the publication who prefer the joy of planning and building their own and can’t believe it’s free of charge. bia Valley.

Now entering its fourth year of publication, Co- home from scratch.

Columbia Valley Homes is also free to read or And this spring, for the first time in the past five download on our website, www.columbiavalleypilumbia Valley Homes is still the go-to guide for both building and buying. This year, we will once again re- or six years, there will be a wide range of professional oneer.com. building and contractors who will work with owners turn to a focus on building.

For more information about the magazine, call to help their dreams come true.

There are plenty of new homes on the market our office at 250-341-6299.

By Pioneer Staff

CALLING ALL BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS & HOME SERVICES PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR ANNUAL 2009 COLUMBIA VALLEY HOMES MAGAZINE! 20,000 copies throughout the valley.

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Booking deadline: March 31st, 2009

Call Dave Sutherland for rates at 250-341-6299 or visit www.columbiavalleypioneer.com and click on HOMES. Published

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20 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

YOUR MONEY

Tax-free savings accounts versus RRSPs Let the debate begin

Both Tax-Free Savings Accounts and RRSP accounts have their benefits and drawbacks. RRSP accounts allow investors to write off some of their income, often saving them plenty of income tax. TaxFree Savings Account contributions cannot be written off against income, but the withdrawals from the plans come out tax-free. Ask any retiree who is taking money out of their RRSP account or RRIF account and they’ll be sure to remind you that the withdrawals are definitely not tax-free. This leaves many investors asking the question of which account they should use to fund their retirement.

Income sources

The first issue investors should consider is where their income comes from. Those who are self-employed and own corporations have much greater flexibility in controlling their taxable income than those who work for someone else, a large company or the government. Investors who are building up pension plans will have a potentially much different income situation in retirement than those who don’t.

Those with pensions

Individuals who work as a teacher, or with the RCMP or other organization that provides pensions, might want to consider the tax-free savings account ahead of an RRSP account. If an employee who is

building up pensionable service will receive a sizable pension in their retirement, they may end up paying the same or close to the same tax dollars on their RRSP withdrawals as their contributions save them.

An example would be a civil servant making $60,000 per year and saving 30 percent income tax for every dollar they put into their RRSP account while they are working. If they earn $40,000 per year from their pension, the Canadian Pension Plan, and Old Age Security when they are retired, they may end up paying the same 30 percent income tax on withdrawals. This phenomenon is due to a very large tax bracket in most provinces when combining federal and provincial tax rates.

If this is the case, then a tax-free savings account would be advisable because the pensioner could take money out at any time in any amount, and not have to worry about the effect on income tax rates.

Those without pensions

Many people today do not work for organizations that provide pensions, or work for themselves and are not incorporated. These investors may have some very high income-earning years and get taxed at very high income tax rates, but may not have much in the way of a pension other than their Canadian Pension Plan and Old Age Security. If this is the case, an RRSP account can be very beneficial because the contributions will save some income from being taxed at very high

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Since they can keep their incomes lower in highly profitable years for their corporations, an RRSP contribution to lower taxable income may not be as effective. These investors may want to use their tax-free savings account to save for the future.

If, however, an owner needs to withdraw a higher amount of money as income in any year, they would probably find it useful to contribute to their RRSP to reduce their taxable income.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 21

March 13, 2009

Village of Radium council briefs

By Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff

Radium firefighters called 29 times in 2008 The Radium Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department responded to 29 calls in 2008, their annual report shows.

Radium council last week reviewed an incident report showing 10 calls for fires last year – including a major condominium fire at Panorama Mountain Resort, and a trailer fire north of Edgewater that claimed the home of Akie and Pascal Pronk.

They also responded to three motor vehicle accidents, including one that doubled as a hazardous material call. That call occurred on August 20th, 2008, when a semi-trailer crashed into the rock wall north of the hot pools and material spilled from its fuel tank.

The unit also responded to three calls to assist Emergency Medical Services, one call to assist RCMP, one call to assist Parks Canada with the rescue of an injured female, and eight false alarms.

According to the report compiled by Fire Chief Dave Dixon, these numbers didn’t change significantly from the previous year. In 2007, the department responded to 30 calls: 11 in response to fires, two to assist Emergency Medical Services, one to assist RCMP, two hazardous material incidents, two flooding incidents, one hydro line incident and 11 false alarms.

Crosswalk application denied After more than a decade of trying, the Village of Radium Hot Springs’ application to add flashing walk lights to two pedestrian crosswalks has been denied again.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure said in a letter that traffic volumes are not high enough to warrant additional lighting on the crosswalks on Highway 93/95.

The Village had applied for crosswalks with pedestrian-activated flashing lights and lighting improvements so pedestrians will be more visible to motorists in low light conditions.

“I was extremely disappointed to once again be denied any form of help on our crosswalks,” said Mayor Dee Conklin. “We are a walking town and the safety of our children and seniors, as well as our visitors, is the main reason for our concern.”

The Radium council heard last week that a review of pedestrians and vehicles on Tuesday, July 31st and Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 showed that for one hour of the day, sometime between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., there were 600 to 700 vehicles on the highway. The report says only 30 people crossed during that hour.

The province said the ratio of pedestrians to vehicles was not high enough to warrant the extra lights.

Based on this information, the ministry said that the signs and pavement markings at Stanley Street, near the Visitor Centre, and an overhead sign and pavement markings on St. Joseph Street, near the Horsethief Pub, already exceed the minimum specified in the province’s guidelines.

“I do question the time of year and day of the week that they took the sample traffic volumes. It truly needs to be on a weekend in tourist season,” Ms. Conklin said.

“I personally cross the highway with my dogs in tow all the time – not an easy task and a scary one.”

Mark Read, Chief Administrative Officer, said that council will continue lobbying the Ministry.

Village Life hits the streets The Village of Radium Hot Springs is calling its first community newsletter a huge success.

Called Village Life, the newsletter hit mailboxes just before the Alberta Family Day long weekend.

Mayor Dee Conklin said she can tell the newsletter was successful because only seven copies were pulled out of the recycle bin at the post office; and she has received emails thanking council for ‘keeping them in the know’ and asking for more information.

The newsletter will be placed in all local mailboxes, plus other locations such as the Visitor Centre and the post office.

Village Life is funded by Radium’s public communication budget. “Three quotes were received on this one and it was awarded to Palliser Printing, who came in 20 percent under the lowest quote – keeping it local,” said Ms. Conklin, who also owns Palliser. She said if the budget allows, the newsletter will be published four times per year.

For more information, call 250-347-6455 or email mayor@radiumhotsprings.ca.

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Rockies Pizzeria to reopen Rockies Pizzeria on Main Street East, Radium, has new owners who plan to reopen the restaurant this spring, after it has been closed for 18 months.

The new owners, listed only as a numbered company, applied to the Village of Radium Hot Springs for a development permit to upgrade the exterior of the building. They have also requested a variance to the zoning bylaw to waive the requirement for paved on-site parking for more than four vehicles. The longterm plan is to redevelop the property in two to five years, depending on market conditions. Council approved both the permit and the zoning variance, noting that it would revisit the zoning variance in two years for review.

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22 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

Invermere bans use of cosmetic pesticides

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff The District of Invermere has become the first community in the East Kootenay — and only the eighth community in B.C. — to adopt a ban on the cosmetic use of some pesticides and herbicides.

Driven hard for by the grass-roots Coalition for a Pesticide Free Columbia Valley, the ban, which takes effect May 1st, specifies a $100 fine for the cosmetic use of banned pesticides and herbicides within the District of Invermere.

A cosmetic pesticide is defined as a pesticide applied for the purposes of beautification or aesthetic enhancement, regardless of environmental impact.

Coalition chair Marion Stotts said: “I’d like to thank the members and supporters of the Pesticide

Free Columbia Valley coalition who for nearly two years have contributed their time and energy to raising awareness in our community about the risks of pesticide exposure and what we can do in our families, neighbourhoods and community to make a difference.” Mrs. Stotts is advocacy leader of the Canadian Cancer Society Columbia Valley Unit.

District of Invermere Chief Administrative Officer Chris Prosser said a massive public education campaign will lead up to the ban — including newspaper advertisements, website announcements, direct mail brochures and signage.

According to Mr. Prosser, 12.4 million people – 40 percent of Canada’s population are protected by a ban on the use of cosmetic pesticides – including the entire province of Quebec.

District of Invermere Councillor Spring Hawes,

the owner of Spring Health Foods in Invermere, said the ban doesn’t go far enough, but is a good start.

“I think it’s fairly obvious to anyone who knows me or knows the business I’m in that I would support this bylaw whole-heartedly,” she said.

“I think we’re easing into it very gently and very slowly and that’s probably good from a public education point of view, but I would, if I had my way, just get rid of them all.”

A cosmetic pesticide bylaw does not apply to pesticides used in swimming pools, inside an enclosed building, for purification of water, to control or destroy animals or plants which constitute a danger for human beings, forestry or agriculture, or noxious weed control.

To find out more, visit www.pesticidefreecolumbiavalley.ca.

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THIS SUNDAY

March 15, 2009 (1pm-4pm)

Tickets $5 available at the door For more information please visit: www.theblushingbride.ca produced by Tangerine event co.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is just 20 min. South of Invermere on Hwy 93/95

Saturday, March 21st

Supper & Sounds Two seatings: 5:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.

Fly Delta from the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC, Cranbrook) Connect through Salt Lake City to hundreds of destinations around the globe!

Atlanta Boston Denver Dallas-Fort Worth Fort Lauderdale Houston

New York-Kennedy Las Vegas Los Angeles Oakland Orlando

Seat sale on until March 13 Winter ights end March 29 Call your travel agent or book online

Minneapolis/St Paul Phoenix Salt Lake City San Diego San Francisco

Menu/Buffet: Asain Fusion Music by the MOHG HOUSE BAND featuring Kathleen & Scott with special guest singer and songwriter Paige!

Tickets available at Meet On Higher Ground $ 2000, Reservations recommended.

Call 250-347-6567 for more information.

ALL of The Pioneer’s back issues dating to September 16th, 2004 are available FREE on our website: www.columbivalleypioneer.com.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 23

March 13, 2009

AROUND THE VALLEY MLA Macdonald meets with voters

After six weeks in the Legislature, Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald is looking forward to meeting with constituents at a series of meeting days and open houses. Mr. Macdonald will be in Invermere on Monday, March 16th and will provide an opportunity for meetings with constituents between 3 and 6 p.m.

“One of the most important things about this job is getting out in the community and talking with people,” said Mr. Macdonald. “I need to hear what matters to my constituents.

“I will get calls from both individuals and representatives from groups. Some will be asking for help with a particular complaint relating to government services and others will be raising broader issues.”

Constituents who wish to meet with MLA Macdonald should call 1-866-870-4188 to make an appointment.

Charity sought to run silent auction

The Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley are seeking proposals from groups who wish to run the silent auction at their 2009 Home and Recreation Show.

The event will be held from May 8th to 9th at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

The Kinsmen Club is looking for a non-profit group who will take care of the entire auction component, from providing the items to finalizing bids.

Nonprofit groups should write a one-page proposal explaining the financial need of the group; how the money raised will be spent; the number of community

Go Go Sisters plan annual tea The Valley Go Go Sisters, a local group of the Grandmother to Grandmother Campaign, will host their third annual Tea and Bake Sale on Saturday, March 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Christ Church Trinity.

All proceeds from this event will go to the Stephen Lewis Foundation to support grandmothers in sub-Saharan Africa who have become the anchors of their communities as they strive to raise the children who have become orphans due to the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

The Stephen Lewis Foundation is committed to support the efforts of grassroots organizations and have funded more than 250 projects in 15 African countries that support grandmothers and the children in their care.

Be sure to come out to Christ Church Trinity this Saturday, March 14th, to support this very worthwhile project. Remember our grannies are great cooks!

members that will benefit from the proceeds; the overall benefit to the community; and how you will ensure a successful event.

Proposals should be mailed with contact details to the Kinsmen Club of Windermere Valley, PO Box 2039, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0, before March 20th.

Light Up and Super Sunday combined

Two popular holiday events – Light Up and Super Sunday – will be combined into one event in November, said Paul Christy, a spokesperson for the Invermere Business Committee and owner of Monkey’s Uncle.

In recent years, the two events were held on consecutive weekends at the end of November and the beginning of December, culminating in Super Sunday, the Santa Claus Parade and the shopping season kick-off for downtown merchants. “That worked very well in the past,” Mr. Christy said, “but things get old and we like to refresh it for people.”

Light Up Invermere was co-sponsored in 2007 by Panorama Mountain Village to celebrate World Cup races the ski hill hosted that year. The partnership continues again this year. Panorama has committed to continuing support of the IBC’s Light Up event.

“We’re excited by the plan to amalgamate these two fantastic community events and look forward to being part of a weekend-long party,” said Panorama’s marketing manager, Marke Dickson.

“As for the World Cup, although the event will not be returning to Panorama this year, many worldclass athletes will train at Panorama Mountain Village in preparation for Vancouver 2010.”

Rob Sabine starts new job

Rob Sabine, the former Chief Administrator of Canal Flats, has officially started his new job as the administrator for the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District on Vancouver Island.

Mr. Sabine worked for the District of Sechelt, the City of Powell River, the Fraser Valley Regional District and Fort Nelson before moving to Canal Flats two years ago.

Mr. Sabine left after a contentious tenure in Canal Flats, in which he was named in several lawsuits against the village and legally restricted from dealing with issues related to the Painted Ridge development.

Canal Flats has hired a new interim chief administrator, Ruth Copeland, a Fairmont resident and former chief administrator in Beiseker, Alberta.

She agreed to administer the village’s affairs until a permanent replacement for Mr. Sabine is found.

Scholarship numbers doubled

Columbia Basin Trust is increasing the number of youth scholarships from 20 to 45 awards this year.

Each Columbia Basin Trust Youth Community Service Award is valued at $2,000 and is based on volunteer community service rather than academic standing.

Students can use the award for post-secondary education or training.

The deadline to submit an application is April 10, 2009. Applications are available at local high schools and online at www.cbt.org. For more information, call 1-800-505-8998.

ROCKIES AT RIVERSIDE

GRAND OPENING TUESDAY — ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

DAY ST. PATRICEKG’S EN RE

WEARIN’ O’TH E HALFSACKS t Music by TH Tap t Guinness on ecial Sp t Irish Stew

Rockies at Riverside (formerly The Sportsman’s Lounge) is the Valley’s new destination for good food, good drink, and a warm welcome!

You’ll love our fresh and authentic gastro-pub menu with favourites like Aberdeen Angus burgers, the Ploughman’s Plate, gourmet flatbreads, Bangers & Mash, Chicken Pot Pie, and much more.

Come celebrate good cheer in a new ambience. See you soon!

24 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.invermere.net

PUBLIC AUCTION Sunday, March 15th • 11:00 a.m.

The remaining stock and fixtures of The Place, Invermere Furniture will be sold at auction. Public viewing will be on Saturday, March 14th from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

516 13th St. Invermere, BC (The Place)

Conducted at this location by

KEY CITY AUCTION

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March 13, 2009

Property owners to see three tax hike this year

By Sally Waddington Pioneer Staff Three governing bodies have voted to raise taxes or rates for property owners in the Columbia Valley this week.

In Cranbrook on Friday, the Regional District of East Kootenay approved its five-year financial plan.

The regional district accepted operating expenditures of $26,955,114 for 2009. Last year expenditures were at $31,584,614, meaning the district plans to spend $4.6 million less this year.

However, board chair Norm Walter said that on average, owners of rural residential-zoned properties in the regional district can expect about a twopercent increase in their taxes.

“It’s important to keep in mind that even though there may be slight increases in the requisition amount, new development in most of the region will offset some of that impact on taxpayers,” he said.

Mr. Walter added that taxes will be different for residents of each area in the district.

“Different areas of the Regional District of East Kootenay require different services and these are paid for only by taxpayers of that area,” he said.

Operating expenditures for 2009 specific to Area F and Area G include: $4,545,897 on water and sewer; $1,630,015 on fire, emergency and flood control; $629,523 on recreation and arenas; $230,000 on the new Local Conservation Fund; $130,303 on public transportation; and $34,510 on cemeteries.

Tax calculations are expected in early April.

Meanwhile, the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District approved its budget on Friday as well. The board agreed to expenditures of $7,862,488 million, including $3.76 million on capital works.

The board also voted to include $1.76 million in the budget for Invermere and District Hospital’s emergency room upgrade. See Page 5 for more on that decision.

Residents of the regional district, Radium, Invermere and Canal Flats pay taxes to the hospital district. This year, tax rates will work out to be about $25 per $100,000 property, plus a levy of $2 per $100,000 for existing debt.

The regional hospital district pays 40 percent of capital works on our hospitals; the rest comes from the province and donations.

Meanwhile, the District of Invermere council voted on Tuesday to increase sewer usage rates by 10 percent in 2009 to recover its sewer reserves.

Single family residences will see an increase of $2.80 a month to a total of $30.80 a month. One-bedroom suites will see an increase of $1.50 a month to a total of $18.05. Commercial properties will see an increase of $2.60 a month to a total of $28.65 a month.

Invermere taxpayers will also see a dramatic increase in their water parcel tax this year – from $24.37 to $82.71.

This is a result of a $2-million loan the district took out in 2008 to pay for its new water reservoirs. The parcel tax will stay around that rate in coming years.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 25

March 13, 2009

No deal yet on Windermere water and sewer: Director Booth

By Brian Geis Pioneer Staff Regional District of East Kootenay Area F Director Wendy Booth said no agreements have been reached yet to supply homes in Windermere with bulk water treated by and purchased from the privately-owned Windermere Water and Sewer Company.

She was contradicting the statements made in a document leaked from the Tretheway Beach Community Association Sewer Committee. “There is a lot of misinformation circulating and it is very important to me as the Area Director and to the (regional district) board that people have the facts,� she said. “The issues related to water and sewer servicing are complex and it is critically important to understand that every community has to be considered individually. Every agreement would have to be approved by the affected community and the board.�

There are multiple projects and funding schemes being discussed to provide water and sewer services to communities on the east side of Lake Windermere,

Director Booth explained, but none can go forward without community approval. “There has to be a vote,� she said. “In order to raise taxes, you need public assent.�

The regional district is, however, pursuing a $2.25 million grant from the Building Canada Fund to decommission Windermere’s publicly-owned water intake, disinfection system and pump houses, and retrofit the water distribution infrastructure in Windermere and Timber Ridge to receive a supply of water from Windermere Water and Sewer instead.

The project, Ms. Booth explained, would save taxpayers the cost of building a new water treatment facility. Currently, Windermere’s water supply, which is drawn from Lake Windermere, is only disinfected but not treated. Provincial regulations require that surface water be filtered and chlorinated.

Construction costs for a new water treatment facility would be very high, she said, especially when it would duplicate a service that is available from Windermere Water and Sewer Company. Point-of-use (at the tap) treatment systems do not meet the provincial standards for treatment of community water.

Your Local

The regional district was recently denied a $666,000 grant from the Building Canada Fund to install water meters in about 1,400 homes in Edgewater, Timber Ridge and Windermere.

By grouping the two projects on a new application to the Building Canada Fund, however, regional district Engineering Services Manager Brian Funke estimates the chances of the application succeeding are high.

Even if the funding is granted, Ms. Booth noted, the bulk water project will not proceed without the assent of the community.

Ms. Booth is asking residents to be patient as staff complete the studies and the investigation necessary, so that affected communities have all the information they need to make an informed decision. “The bottom line is that communities will be informed if and when a proposal comes forward. There will be formal public consultation in the affected communities and nothing will happen without elector assent,� she said.

Visit the regional district website at www.rdek. bc.ca for more information.

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EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

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26 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

ON THE ROAD

Pioneer travellers seek fun in the sun Clockwise from top – back row, left to right: Brandy Carey, Virginia Jopp, Janice McGregor, Krista Gagne, Rena Jefferson, Debbie Strome, Wanda Wolfe, Michelle Cleverley, Tasha Casey. Front row, left to right: Leslie Goldsmith, Denise Reid, Joyce McMurray, Trina Wolfenden at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Former valley residents Harry and Shirley Bryant, and Bill and Sharon Davidson with Barb and Jerry Aubrey in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Judy Moore, Mary Thackray and pup Precious in San Blas, Mexico.

Gord and Pam Green and Judy and Cam Dow in Cozumel, Mexico.

These lucky travellers will have their names entered to win two tickets to a Calgary Flames game and a one-night stay at a Calgary hotel, courtesy of your friendly neighbourhood Travel World. Email your photo to upioneer@ telus.net or drop it off at 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.

March 13, 2009

March 13, 2009

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 27

ON THE ROAD

From France to Chile Clockwise from top left: Karen Gratton in front of Montmartre Cathedral in Paris; Jayne and Rick Magri on vacation in Fiji – floods devastated the country while they were there; Nikki Matthews braves -54°C weather to get her picture taken with The Pioneer in Medicine Hat, Alberta; Kim Gagatek and Wendalyn Morris-Chrona in Cuba; Gloria and Bruce Sundbo and Lise Niddrie at Grey

Glacier, Southern Patagonia, Chile.

These lucky travellers will have their names entered to win two tickets to a Calgary Flames game and a one-night stay at a Calgary hotel, courtesy of your friendly neighbourhood travel agency, Travel World in Invermere.

Email your photo to upioneer@telus. net or drop it off at 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.

28 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

OUR CALGARY LOCATIONS SOUTHWEST CALGARY G

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2000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED IN CALGARY VERIFIED BY SUN MEDIA

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 29

March 13, 2009

New director of golf named at Greywolf Submitted by Hayley Wilson Panorama Mountain Village Chad Thomlinson has been named the new Director of Golf at Panorama Mountain Village and Greywolf Golf Course.

Born in Regina, Chad didn’t spend much time in the prairies before moving to Vernon, where he grew up playing hockey and, of course, golf.

“I spent most of my teen years working, playing and practising golf,” Chad said.

“I started competing at a young age and still remember my first junior championship at the age of 13.

“My group teed off first in front of what seemed like a massive crowd at the Spallumcheen Golf and Country Club, although come to think of it now, it was probably only 20 or 30 people.

“I proceeded to duff three in a row in the pond. That experience was a huge motivator to improve my ability to control my emotions and my game.”

Chad Thomlinson Chad began his career at the Vernon Golf and Country Club, where he worked as a bag boy washing clubs.

By 1995, he became a member of the Canadian Professional Golfers’ Association, apprenticing under Keith Vandenbrink at the Hillview Golf Club

in Vernon.

In 1998, Chad graduated from Camosun College in Victoria, earning a Diploma in Business Administration and Golf Management, which combined his passion for golf with a solid background in management and marketing.

Chad moved to the Columbia Valley in 1999, working as the Assistant Professional at the Radium Resort.

His success in this role was recognized by his peers when he was nominated by the Professional Golfers’ Association of British Columbia as the Assistant Pro of the Year in 2000.

Chad worked as the Associate Professional at the Springs Golf Course in 2001 before taking on the role of Head Professional at Greywolf Golf Course in 2003.

He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the Royal Roads University that same year.

Six years after joining the team at Greywolf, Chad accepted the position

of Director of Golf.

“Leading a world-class golf operation has been a goal of mine for many years,” explained Chad.

“I am truly honoured and excited to continue working with the talented and professional group of people at Greywolf and Panorama.”

Chad is also looking forward to the birth of his first child with wife of six years, Lori Andruschuk, and of course, to another successful summer season.

“Greywolf has been an industry leader since its inception in 1999,” said Chad.

Moving forward, he hopes to focus on strengthening Greywolf, Panorama Mountain Village, and the Columbia Valley as the premier golf destination in Canada.

Greywolf Golf Course is now taking tee times for the 2009 season.

Please call 1-888-473-9965 and press option 2 to book.

For more information, visit www. greywolfgolf.com.

get in before the ink dries.

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30 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 31

March 13, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU Q Q

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

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32 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

HERE TO SERVE YOU NEW

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 33

March 13, 2009

New general manager for Rockies Travis, a former Rockie himself, moved to Invermere in 2003 from The Columbia Valley Gibsons, B.C. He played Rockies Hockey Club has three years in goal for the named Travis Belanger of team, claiming a division Invermere, 23, as the new championship, most valugeneral manager for the able player in the playoffs, upcoming season. and most valuable player It’s the first of many in the regular season. changes the club will imWhen he became too Travis Belanger plement after recently firold to play for the Rocking previous head coach ies (players must be 20 or and general manager Darren Naylor. younger to play on a Junior B team), “We are really hoping to improve Travis became assistant coach for the the club’s community image,” Travis 2006/2007 season. Following that, he said. “We are also looking to restructure took a two-year hiatus from hockey how we develop players.” to focus on his career designing comBy Cayla Gabruck Pioneer Staff

mercial and residential housing. He is currently employed as chief designer and engineered products consultant at Home Hardware in Invermere.

Although no longer involved with the club, Travis still followed the team’s progress. One day, during a discussion with his boss and club president Al Miller regarding the issues the club was facing, Travis found himself volunteering to jump feet first into a management position. It was with the help of Travis and volunteer coach Rob Rice that the Rockies were able to finish their season.

Although the new season, starting in September, will present many challenges, Travis said he is looking forward to working with the Rockies.

His position will see him keeping player programs on track, making sure all of the positions are filled and finding a new management team including coaches and trainers.

Many of the management positions for the Rockies remain unfilled, but Travis assured The Pioneer that fans may see some familiar faces come September.

As for a head coach, Travis said that the club will soon begin interviewing eligible applicants to fill the position.

“Our first goal for next year is to make it to playoffs,” Travis said. “Secondly, we would like to move as many players to the next level as possible and create an exciting environment for people to come and watch hockey.”

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• Insurance Repairs • Any size job!

Renovate now! Take advantage of the “Home Renovation Tax Credit” finish that basement and get $$$ back from Canada Revenue Agency as a refundable tax credit in 2009!

Christine Voss

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

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

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

D&D POOLS and SPAS

BSc RMT

Complete Automotive Repairs

Commercial and Residential Installation - Maintenance - Repairs Duane Huether

250-341-POOL (7665) (Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Phone:

342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

Darren Ross

250-341-SPAS (7727)

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

We aren’t the cheapest, JUST THE BEST!

REFERENCES AVAILABLE

1422 12A Avenue, Invermere B.C.

attheshop@live.ca

LICENSED

250-341-5096

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

Call NOW:

688-0213

• Carpets dry in about 1 hour!

• 100% guaranteed!

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

34 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

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

Vin # 1G1AM15B667804496.

Date of Sale: March 23, 2009 Location of Sale: Warbrick Towing $ Salvage Compound (Hwy 93/95, Shuswap Village).

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

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

Date of Sale: March 23, 2009 Location of Sale: Warbrick Towing $ Salvage Compound (Hwy 93/95, Shuswap Village).

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

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

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

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

STORAGE

SUITE FOR RENT

SUITE FOR RENT

HOUSE FOR RENT

Alcoholics Anonymous.

Open to all.

NEWHOUSE MULTI STORAGE Various sizes available.

Now with climate controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637

One or two bdrm bungalows, by the week or month, (250) 3456365 Fairmont Bungalows.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Small 2 bdrm house in Athalmer, $800/month, 250-342-6255.

THANK YOU I would like to take this opportunity to thank my husband Tom and my daughters Jennifer and Debra for the wonderful party they almost surprised me with. I would also like to thank my sons, “Barrett, Barry and Lesley” for the support they provided in making it all happen. Thanks especially for the “red tire mint” gift. I would also like to thank Diana McDonald, Dodie Hodgins and all the staff at the Service BC building for the great lunch, cake, flowers and most of all the mini-vacation you gave me.

I’m going to enjoy it! Thank you to everyone for all the cards, gifts, flowers and wonderful comments. I will miss seeing you all very much! Thanks again!

Sheila

CHEERS & JEERS CHEERS: to the Parks Canada employee who helped me out of a sticky situation at the Olive Lake parking lot. Support your Parks Canada Staff!

Call 250-341-6299 to place your classified ad.

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

Please call 250-270-0270.

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

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

SHARED ACCOMMODATION Roommate wanted to share 3 bdrm townhouse in Radium. $375/month, includes laundry, hydro, high speed internet.

Available immediately, 250347-7787.

Furnsihed room, Canal Flats.

N/P. Avail. Immediately. First and last months rent needed.

Call to view. 250-270-0273.

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

Affordable accommodation in Radium. $425 and up. Call 250341-7022.

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

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

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

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

2 bdrm, partially furnished, close to everything, 129-11th Avenue, Invermere. N/S, N/P. Avail. March 15th . $900/month includes cable and utilities. 250341-6287.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Canal flats, 1 bdrm apartment, utilities included, $600/month + DD. Available April 1st , 250341-1030.

WALK TO DOWNTOWN & KINSMEN BEACH. Spacious, clean 2 bdrm basement suite, separate entrance, 4 appliances, backyard amenities, N/P, N/S, references/deposit required.

Rent negotiable, utilities included. Available Apr 1st , 250-342-7590.

Downtown Invermere basement suite, $1100 includes util.

Available April 1st , 250-6881224.

Radium 2 bdrm suite, W/D, fridge, stove, N/S, $800 + util, 250-347-9345.

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

FOR RENT Contact

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

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

New 4 bdrm, 3 bath home. Walk to school, D/T, 2 story, 2 car garage, hardwood floor, 5 appl, N/S, N/P, $1250/month + util.

Available April 1st , 403-6190336 (cell), 403-240-4170.

3 bdrm, fully furnished home in Windermere. Available April 1st to May 31st . $1000/month.

Please call Susan 403-5406858.

Radium, 2 bdrm trailer, fenced yard with out buildings, partially furnished, N/S, $1200/month, includes utilities, 250-3423841.

Athalmer, 2 bdrm house, completely furnished, N/S, $1250/month includes utilities, 250-342-3841.

Windermere, Timber Ridge 1, 3 bdrm, 1.5 bath, fully furnished & stocked, N/S, N/P, available Sept. 1st , $1400/month +util on 12 month lease. Call 403287-9968.

New 2 bdrm w/garage on Windermere acreage, 2 bath, furnished, $1050/month. Call Linda, 403-244-8402.

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

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

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 35

March 13, 2009

P ioneer C lassifieds CONDO FOR RENT

CONDO FOR RENT

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

2 bedroom furnished & unfurnished condos, 5 appliances, garage, NS, NP. Were $1200 now $1000 + util, 250342-1475.

Lakeview Meadows ‘Cottages’ 3 bdrm, fully-furnished unit, stone fireplace, golf cart, beach access and recreation centre. Available April 1. $1,500/month + utilities. Contact heidilp2005@ gmail.com RADIUM, gorgeous 2 bdrm, 2 bath unit w/ breathtaking mountain views now available; 5 appliances, includes in-suite laundry & parking. Won’t last! $1,195 + utilities. Michelle, 403-650-7435.

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

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

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

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

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

2 bdrm condo near Sobeys. N/S, N/P, $800. Call 250-342-6255.

Radium, 2 bdrm, fully furnished condo, W/D, BBQ, wood fireplace, $1400/month. Call Mardi, 403522-3669.

Beautiful new 1 bdrm fully furnished condo, Sable Ridge, Radium, 250-347-9915 or 403861-5656.

2 bdrm luxury condo, 5 min drive from Invermere in Akiskinook. Would suit single or couple. Newly renovated, fully furnished, W/D, cable, N/S, N/P. Access to rec centre with pool, hot tub & internet. Avail immediately, short-term until June 20th. Rent negotiable.

250-342-7513.

2 bdrm condo located in the Pinewood building. 2 full baths, 1200 sq.ft, all appl. included, fridge, stove, dishwasher, W/ D, microwave. Underground parking, N/S, N/P. Asking $1100, negotiable, available immediately. Please call Gudi, 403-615-9989.

Invermere, fully furnished 2 bdrm condo. 2 Queen beds, includes bedding, towels, dishes and cooking utensils. 2 blocks to D/T and beach. Available April 15th , $950/month + hydro + DD, free cable, 1-250-833-0196, 250-341-5855 (cell).

VACATION RENTAL

Sled Heads/ Skiers Secial, Furnished house, rent by the night or week. 20 mins. from your paradise, N/S, 250-3423841.

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

BEAUTIFUL FAIRMONT HOME WITH REVENUE SUITE.

This 6-year old, 3300 sq.ft., 6 bdrm. home is located on Riverside Golf Course. Main floor: 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 5 appl.

All stainless, beautiful views.

Downstairs: 2 bdrm private entry suite, new kitchen,5 appl. Walk out to golf course. Double car garage, underground sprinklers, large driveway, a must see, $629,000. Call 250-314-7682 or email for photos bruce_terri@ hotmail.com Brisco, 1 year lease or lease to purchase? Older trailer, w/large addition on approx. 5 acres.

Parcel is on west side, 3 km off Hwy 95, 250-346-3395, 250688-0268.

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

FAST FLOYD’S FORD’S FOR SALE 1999 FORD F-150 SUPERCAB

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

RESORT PROP. FOR SALE Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Golden www.adlerdevelopment.ca 250-344-8447 billy@adlerdevelopment.ca 1St Line bold & Centered

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

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

VEHICLES FOR SALE

We supply parts and service FOR ALL MAKES of: • snowmobiles • motorcycles • quads

4X4,LOCAL TRADE IN

ONLY

$

STK# 09005A

9,99500

2006 FORD FREESTYLE REESTYLE SEL SE , ALL WHEEL DRIVE, TV/DVD,LIKE NEW

SALE PRIC PRICE PRIC BRAND NEW

$

17,99500 STK# AO503.

2009 FORD RANGER 4x4 SUPERCAB SPORT MODEL, A/C, AUTO,CHROME PACKAGE. PRIVACY GLASS AND MORE.

SAVE $5,000

$

STK# 09029

21,38900

2007 PONTIAC G5 SEDAN AUTO, AIR, FACTORY WARRANTY AND MORE

BLOWOUT!

$

12,99900 STK# A0491

2006 MAZDA 6 GS SPORT GREAT ON GAS,SAFETY INSPECTED

MUST GO!

$

15,99500 STK# A0477

OVER 60 QUALITY USED VEHICLES IN 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER. REMEMBER, ALL KICKING HORSE FORD UNITS ARE SAFETY INSPECTED,DETAILED AND FULLY SERVICED. SHOP LOCAL, WE ARE HERE TO LOOK AFTER YOU!

INVERMERE (Former Lake Auto Ford Sales Location)

NEW & USED SALES

ALL MAKES AND MODELS – TRADES WELCOME

CALL FLOYD VERGE (250) 342-2995

www.kickinghorseford.com

Dealer #30760

36 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

P ioneer C lassifieds Misc. for Sale

SERVICES

CAREERS

CAREERS

Washer (top loader) and dryer, White Kenmore, good condition, $200 for the pair, 250-3420062.

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

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

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

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

Full-time or part-time hair stylist required at Anglz Hair Studio. Contact Maria, 250-3423227.

14 ft Traveller fiberglass boat, 40hp Mercury outboard. Explorer tilt trailer, runs great, $800 OBO, 250-341-1667.

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

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

2002 Pontiac Sunfire, 2.2 L, 5 speed, manual, 121,000 km, 2 door. Asking $5200 OBO, 250342-6918.

2003 Acura EL. Original owner, 4-door, 5-speed, 40+mpg, low mileage, oneyear extended warranty, A/C, AM/FM/CD, security system, extra set tires, all maintenance records, excellent condition, $14,900. 250-347-6584.

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

2003 Chevy Trail Blazer SLT

Mint condition, leather interior, heated seats, black, tinted windows. Paid $15,000 only 8 months ago, asking $9000. Call 250-342-5440.

2005 Toyota Echo Hatchback, 5 door, manual, silver, excellent condition, 100,000 km. 4 winter tires, custom stereo, roof rack, $10,200. Call 250-342-8631.

Flooring Installations, lino, carpet, laminate and hardwood.

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

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

Chinook Handyman Services.

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

Vacuums Parts, repairs & accessories, All makes & models Central Vacuums – sales and installations Bonded & licensed Fine Homeservices 250-342-9207, fhs@telus.net Need a babysitter for spring break? Call Kalie, 250-3422118.

CAREERS Housekeeper required. Fulltime, part-time at Fairmont Bungalows. Call 250-345-6365, fax 250-345-6348, or email bungalows@shaw.ca Tony’s Greek Grill is now accepting resumes for experienced kitchen and counter servers, starting April to September. Please fax resume, 250-544-3475.

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

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

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

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

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

Call 250-347-2340 or email lacabina@nanonow.ca Local greenhouse and nursery business is looking for a hard working individual to join our team. Seasonal full-time from late March to mid June. Duties will include soil preparation, handling nursery stock, field work, machinery operation and some heavy lifting. Must be self-motivated and cheerful.

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

Framers, siders, wanted. Must have 2 years experience and own vehicle. 40hrs/week, benefits.

Call Scott, 250-270-0745.

Permanent part-time needed, flexible hours. Drop off resume at River Gems, 612 – 12th Street, Invermere.

Town and Country Property Management Services will be receiving bids for several contract opportunities pertaining to summer grounds maintenance and improvements for the coming season. If you are interested in details, please call 250-342-6743.

Call 250-341-6299 to place your classified ad.

Serving treats to the Valley since 1981

Administrative Coordinator We have a position available for a part-time (2 – 3 days per week) Administrative Coordinator in the office of a very busy retail and wholesale Bakery in Invermere, BC. Daily duties include routine office tasks such as telephone reception, email and mail correspondence, and computer tasks using Microsoft office package and Simply Accounting. Must be very comfortable in a computerized office environment.

Ongoing duties include weekly, monthly and annual financial tracking and summarizing, bank deposits, staff recruitment and retention, creating brochures and other print promotional and marketing materials using Microsoft Publisher and Coreldraw, and periodic special projects in the interest of improving or expanding Quality Bakery business.

Personal traits must include the ability to work independently, and also to work well as a member of the QB team; to multi-task and prioritize; and to work in an organized, timely and efficient manner.

Position available immediately. Wage to be negotiated.

Apply:

Email: qbakery@telus.net Fax: (250) 342-4439 Box 519 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Do you want to grow? Both personally and professionally?

Come to Golden, BC and join our amazing team.

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

Golden, BC – the place with room to grow!

SITE MANAGER

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

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

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

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

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

Room to grow.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 37

March 13, 2009

The Old Zone grateful for sponsors

WARWICK WOLVES – Rear, left to right: Gord Felker, Derek Porter, Greg Langton, Wallace Ross, Dave O’Connor, Randy McStevens, Marcel Labrie. Front, left to right: Kevin Nelson, Shane McKay, Tim Traverse, Harold Hazelaar, Brent “Incredible Bulk” Raven, “Juice” Newton. Missing: Aaron Metheral.

RADIUM PETRO-CAN TOMATOES – Rear, left to right: Coach Ernie Parent, Kelly Bracken, Ed English, Joe Evanoff, Dale Wilker, Mickey Godlien, Darcy Lehr. Front, left to right: Grant Kelly, Pieter Jansen, John McCarthy, Brent Taylor, Mike Meadus.

Missing: Tom Roberts, Steve Mackie.

P ioneer C lassifieds Resume me De Design Interview iew Co Coaching

250-688-0707

SHINERESUME@GMAIL.COM

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

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

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

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

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

By Harold Hazelaar Pioneer Columnist This week our thanks goes out to Dave Tomalty (Warwick Interiors) and Kerry Ellingboe (Radium Petro-Can).

Warwick not only has the best-looking team in the league, they also possess the best team “roar” and the best full-time Wolfette (Laurie Lesmeister).

PetroCan can boast about being the only team in the league with a coach!

And finally, just in case you care . . .

March 4th results: Warwick allowed Petro-Can to win, Huckleberry’s chewed up Da’Mudders, Lake Auto edged the Vultures and the Smoke kicked Kicking Horse.

CVOHA League Standings Team

W L

T Points

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes

5

0

0

10

Huckleberry Hawks

5

0

0

10

Warwick Wolves

4

2

0

8

Inside Edge Black Smoke

3

3

0

6

Lake Auto Mustangs

3

2

0

6

Dale Christian Mudders

1

4

1

3

Kicking Horse Coffee

1

3

1

3

Valley Vision Vultures

1

4

0

2

Hi Heat Hustlers

0

4

1

1

www.leaguelineup.com

38 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009 To place your Community Classified call The Pioneer at 250-341-6299 or toll free 1-866-669-9222 classifieds@bccommunitynews.com www.communityclassifieds.ca

Announcements

Business Opportunities

Credit Counsellors

Financial Services

Help Wanted

Recreational Property

GREAT WESTERN STAMP CONVENTION, BC’s largest, great prizes, stamp auctions, free stamp valuations, March 20-21 at Richmond Airport Executive Plaza Hotel. See www. stampshow.net for details.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PET FOOD BUSINESS - High quality cat/dog food. Excellent returns, exclusive territories.

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

BECOME 100% DEBT FREE!!

One easy monthly payment.

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The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 39

March 13, 2009

Valley Churches

FAITH

The cross symbolizes Christ’s transforming sacrifice

By Sandy Ferguson Windermere Valley Shared Ministry What does the cross mean for the church?

In some churches today, there are some who are uncomfortable with the symbolism of the cross, with the questions it raises. Why did Jesus die on the cross? Why would God demand such a sacrifice, the death of God’s son?

The cross is at the centre of our faith – we can’t simply ignore it. The challenge for us is to explore the meaning of the cross in the world we live in.

Many Christians, including myself, wear a cross as a sign of our faith. But I often wonder: do we know what we are wearing?

I remember a few years ago, I heard a sermon where the minister was talking about the meaning of the cross. One of the points he made challenged us: did we actually realize that those of us who wore a cross were wearing a symbol of execution around our necks?

Paul in his letters to the early church made it clear that the cross should be at the centre of our faith, because it is through the mystery of the cross that God is fully revealed to humanity.

And it is a mystery, because why should God choose such a scandalous way to die?

In the world of Rome, the cross was used as a tool of state terror. Death on the cross was reserved for slaves and the poor of the empire.

Yet Paul reveals to us how the mystery of the cross upsets the wisdom of the world.

God chooses this path, through Christ Jesus, to show the world that the Kingdom of God is near.

Through a tool of state terror, Jesus reveals the wonder of God’s love, uninhibited by the structures of this world.

Jesus willingly accepts death on the cross, with all of its suffering, to embrace our humanity, so we can be saved from the darkness of our lives.

Through the cross, God shares in the burdens of all who suffer, as an act of love for us. And after the horror of the cross, there is the mystery of the empty tomb, as we celebrate the wonder of the resurrection.

So the accepted wisdom of this world is turned on its head.

A man deemed to be a terrorist by the powers of this world dies on a cross, and it is revealed that he is the Son of God, and the world is born anew.

It’s not simply a question of a debt being paid, a contract fulfilled, and then we can go on with our lives.

Through the cross, we are called to the path of faith, through which we are born anew, because we understand that we are truly beloved children of God.

Lake Windermere Alliance Church March 15th: 10.30 a.m. Worship and Life Instruction.

“Irresistible Influence – Jesus’ Vision of the Church.”

Pastor Trevor ministering.

Sunday School, pre-school to Grade 7, during service.

For sermons online: www.sermon.net/lwac Pastor Trevor Hagan • 326 -10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org Windermere Valley Shared Ministry ANGLICAN-UNITED March 15th: 8:30 a.m. Communion at All Saints, Edgewater 10:30 a.m. Communion at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere Rev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com Valley Christian Assembly Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship and Word.

Children’s Church provided during the message.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Adult and Children’s Programs Pastor T. Scott Peterson • 4814 Highway 93/95, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com Roman Catholic Church Saturday: 5 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Church in Canal Flats 7 p.m. at Canadian Martyrs Church in Invermere Sunday: 9 a.m. at Canadian Martyrs Church in Invermere 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Radium Father Jim McHugh 712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 250-342-6167 ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE Worship services every Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. Fraser Coltman • 1-866-426-7564 Radium Christian Fellowship 10 a.m. Worship service 7 p.m. Special Praise, Special Prayer and Especially the Love of God Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Worship Service, 10 a.m. • Sunday School, 11 a.m.

• Relief Society, Noon.

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

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40 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

March 13, 2009

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