vol4issue49

FEEDING THE VALLEY

Vol. 4/Issue 49 Your Weekly Source for News and Events December 7, 2007

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The Columbia Valley

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Mickey and Helga Riches have closed Mickey’s Auto Body for good. See Page 8.

HAPPY RETIREMENT!HAPPY RETIREMENT!

2 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer December 7, 2007

VALLEY NEWS

Call 341-6299 to place your classifi ed.

Solid Wood BlindsCall The Blind Guy!

Interior World (250) 342 4406

Merry Christmasto our community

who supports us with donations& patronage in our store.

THRIFT SHOP WILL BE CLOSEDDecember 21st to January 9th

1/2 Price Sale onDec. 13, 14, 15 & 20Invermere Health Care Auxiliary

Fairmont Village Mall, Fairmont

Phone: 345-4000526 B – 13th St. , Invermere

Phone: 342-6911#5, 7553 Main St. W. , Radium

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HELPING HAND—Copper Point Golf Club accounts assistant Maggy Boyer and Columbia Valley Arts Council director John Rouse serve up a mouth-watering Christmas dinner to Brody Powell from Invermere.

Feed the Valley sets recordBy Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

A record-breaking number of people showed up to enjoy an early Christmas dinner on Sunday, cour-tesy of the generous folks at Copper Point Golf Club.

A whopping 650 people chomped their way through 26 turkeys, fi ve and a half hams and a mouth- watering 640 pumpkin pies, which actually ran out shortly after 5 p.m.

Roast turkey, potatoes and all the trimmings were cooked up by food and beverage manager Matt Bergin and executive chef Cliff Huck all afternoon, from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Luckily they had an extra eight staff to help them in the kitchen.

And the best thing about it was it was all for free.Th is was the fourth year the event has been held,

and it was all about bringing the community together. People were also encouraged to bring a donation for the Food Bank. Copper Point general manager Brian Schaal said it had been a huge success.

“It’s been great to see the place so busy from start to end, and it’s been the best year we’ve had so far.

We’ve got at least two car loads of food to take to the Food Bank. We raised a total of $4,128.44, thanks to lots of generous donations, including one cheque for $500,” he said.

“We had enough pumpkin pies for 640 people before we ran out after 5 p.m. Th e kitchen staff really hit a home run, and it’s thanks to the help of all the volunteers that we managed to pull it off ,” he said.

He explained that a team of 75 volunteers helped out by serving along a line, normally fi ve people at a time.

Both Santa Claus and Th e Grinch also made an appearance, and a total of 114 children had their pho-tos taken with them—compared to just 25 photos taken last year.

Many prizes were also handed out from the golf shop, like shirts, jackets and hats.

During last year’s annual event, Copper Point Golf Course served about 500 people, and Mr. Schaal add-ed the event wouldn’t be possible without the gener-ous support from Fairmont Resort Properties, Nohels construction company, and AG Valley Foods, which gives a great deal on all the food.

The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 3December 7, 2007

VALLEY NEWSPerforming arts centre nixed by council

By Brian GeisPioneer Staff

In a committee-of-the-whole meeting on Tuesday night, which included members of the arts council and library board, Invermere council said it would not support a performing arts centre as part of a new com-munity centre.

A “world class” performing arts centre was pro-posed as the centrepiece of a combined theatre/library building by Columbia Valley Arts Council and the Li-brary Board last January, but after a needs assessment committee made recommendations for a more inclu-sive facility, council said it would return to a seven-year-old plan for a library/community centre designed to replace Invermere’s aging Community Hall.

“We’re not saying no to theatre,” Mayor Mark Shmigelsky commented. “We are saying no to a big theatre. We still want to have a discussion with CV Arts to fi nd out if there is an opportunity for some-thing more than Christ Church Trinity.”

Christ Church Trinity is currently the largest ven-ue in town and the site of many performances.

“We want to keep the door cracked open a little,” Mayor Shmigelsky commented.

Council cited a lack of public support for a per-forming arts centre and concern over the district’s abil-

ity to maintain core funding to maintain and operate a big theatre.

A recent community-wide survey (see Page 27), Invermere Chief Administrator Chris Prosser Com-mented, showed more support for a swimming pool than a theatre.

Given an imaginary pie of $100 of tax funds to al-locate toward a new community facility, respondents, he said, gave the smallest slice ($18) to an Arts/Cul-tural Centre, which came in at a few dollars behind the category “Other,” (i.e., a youth centre or multi-purpose rooms for community groups).

Respondents said they would spend the biggest slice of the pie ($35) on a recreation centre, including a fi tness centre and leisure pool; followed by a library ($26).

Mayor Shmigelsky said the district struggles to meet core funding requirements for the facilities it currently operates, after delivering a late check to Co-lumbia Valley Arts Treasurer John Rouse prior to the meeting to cover operating expenses of Pynelogs Cul-tural Centre.

Th e district, he said, could not aff ord the estimated $150,000 annual costs to operate a 350-seat theatre.

Mr. Rouse, speaking on behalf of Arts president Chris Evans, past-president Cam Berry and the orga-nization’s 300 members said the announcement took

them by surprise.“We kind of feel like the bride whose wedding has

been cancelled,” Mr. Rouse commented. “We want move that door open a little more than a crack, Mr. Mayor. On behalf of my fellow board members, we’d like an opportunity to discuss a compromise.”

Mr. Rouse said the arts council didn’t know that consideration of operating costs was part of the study and that council’s decision has jeopardized a major capital funding grant from the Lions’ Club.

“Certainly we are feeling we are feeling that we’ve been left out in the cold,” he said.

Library Board president Sandy McIlwain said he, too, was taken by surprise by the decision and is disap-pointed that a major partner in the project has been sent to the sidelines.

“I’m disappointed because (the Library Board and the Arts Council) have been such close partners,” Mr. McIlwain commented. “I’m still processing this. We didn’t have an opportunity to discuss operating costs. At least, I never heard them being asked.”

Mayor Shmigelsky said he supported the decision, but invited further discussion on the topic.

“Th ere was no public support for it, no matter where it is in our hearts,” he said. “It’s not over, the door’s not slammed shut. I think we’re all still friends here.”

Council agrees to reconsider Grizzly RidgeBy Brian GeisPioneer Staff

Invermere council agreed to reconsider the pos-sible annexation of Grizzly Ridge, a sprawling tract of land that wraps around Invermere to the west and south, including a portion of lake frontage.

Negotiations over annexation and subdivision of the 1,200-acre parcel broke down two years ago when the owner, Mark Himmelspach, and the dis-trict could not come to an agreement over the dedi-cation of parkland.

Project engineer Peter Mulyk appeared before Invermere council on Tuesday night with two off ers

and an ultimatum. If council did not agree to re-consider one of two scenarios presented, Mr. Him-melspach would pursue subdivision through the Regional District of East Kootenay.

“Our client,” Mr. Mulyk said, “is most keen to get into the ground and begin development. Our client is prepared to move as quickly as we can. We want to move through the process as expeditiously as possible.”

Both scenarios presented for consideration, Mr. Mulyk explained, involve the permanent dedication of 231.5 acres of parkland, 19.3 percent of the an-nexation area; plus an additional 90.5 acres outside the annexation area.

Invermere Mayor Mark Shmiglesky said the amount is actually less than formerly proposed in terms of overall dedication, but he is nevertheless in support of the latest off er.

“I’m supportive of annexation,” he said. “Two years ago, the public didn’t support it. I think the potential is there to garner public support, but it has to be a win-win situation.”

Councillors Sarah Bennett and Gerry Taft agreed. “I think the tide of public opinion is turn-ing. I think it will be a boon to have this within the district,” Councillor Bennett commented.

Th e two scenarios will be up for consideration at Tuesday’s meeting of Invermere Council.


VALLEY NEWS




Merry Christmasto our community

who supports us with donations& patronage in our store.

THRIFT SHOP WILL BE CLOSEDDecember 21st to January 9th

1/2 Price Sale onDec. 13, 14, 15 & 20Invermere Health Care Auxiliary

Fairmont Village Mall, Fairmont

Phone: 345-4000526 B – 13th St. , Invermere

Phone: 342-6911#5, 7553 Main St. W. , Radium

Phone: 347-0003100 Spokane St., Kimberley

Phone: 427-7755

BARRY 342-5245

ERIC342-5914

BILL341-5168

PAUL341-5300

www.rockymtnrealty.com

BARRY342-5809

MARLENE341-5600

DIANA341-5269

BRENDA342-1146

CLARE341-5335

DAVID342-1524Strata Management

CANAL FLATSZoned C-2, this 0.83 acre lot has excellent highway exposure. Covenant on title: no sales, storage of bulk petroleum for a 20 year period.

$84,900 + GSTmls# k3600004

FAIRMONTSpectacular log home with views of the Purcell’s & Stanford Range. Close to golf, skiing, shopping and Hot Springs. A Must See!

$699,000 mls#k166011

FAIRMONT0.274 acre lot, incredible mtn. views, on Riverside Golf Course, viewing distance of the complex w/ pro-shop, lounge & restaurants.

$180,000 mls# k165437

INVERMERE This ground fl r 2 bdrm unit has incredible views of Kinsmen Beach & Lake Windermere. Amenities w/private pool, common area, hot tub area, & mins to beach.

$499,000 + GSTmls# k165189

INVERMERE Beautiful views, wonderful design & a lakefront location on Lake Windermere. Full appliance package included.

$324,900 + GSTmls# k163705

CANAL FLATS Beautiful landscaped 0.147 acre lot. Fruit trees and partially fenced yard, close to schools, playground and just minutes from the beach!

$85,900 + GSTmls# k163139

HELPING HAND—Copper Point Golf Club accounts assistant Maggy Boyer and Columbia Valley Arts Council director John Rouse serve up a mouth-watering Christmas dinner to Brody Powell from Invermere.

Feed the Valley sets recordBy Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

A record-breaking number of people showed up to enjoy an early Christmas dinner on Sunday, cour-tesy of the generous folks at Copper Point Golf Club.

A whopping 650 people chomped their way through 26 turkeys, fi ve and a half hams and a mouth- watering 640 pumpkin pies, which actually ran out shortly after 5 p.m.

Roast turkey, potatoes and all the trimmings were cooked up by food and beverage manager Matt Bergin and executive chef Cliff Huck all afternoon, from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Luckily they had an extra eight staff to help them in the kitchen.

And the best thing about it was it was all for free.Th is was the fourth year the event has been held,

and it was all about bringing the community together. People were also encouraged to bring a donation for the Food Bank. Copper Point general manager Brian Schaal said it had been a huge success.

“It’s been great to see the place so busy from start to end, and it’s been the best year we’ve had so far.

We’ve got at least two car loads of food to take to the Food Bank. We raised a total of $4,128.44, thanks to lots of generous donations, including one cheque for $500,” he said.

“We had enough pumpkin pies for 640 people before we ran out after 5 p.m. Th e kitchen staff really hit a home run, and it’s thanks to the help of all the volunteers that we managed to pull it off ,” he said.

He explained that a team of 75 volunteers helped out by serving along a line, normally fi ve people at a time.

Both Santa Claus and Th e Grinch also made an appearance, and a total of 114 children had their pho-tos taken with them—compared to just 25 photos taken last year.

Many prizes were also handed out from the golf shop, like shirts, jackets and hats.

During last year’s annual event, Copper Point Golf Course served about 500 people, and Mr. Schaal add-ed the event wouldn’t be possible without the gener-ous support from Fairmont Resort Properties, Nohels construction company, and AG Valley Foods, which gives a great deal on all the food.


RCMP Report

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Holiday Festivities: Sat, Dec 22 – 12:00 to 3:00 Sleigh Rides Sat, Dec 29 – 11:00 to 2:00 Skating Party

Submitted by Staff -Sergeant Doug PackColumbia Valley RCMP Detachment

• November 27: RCMP received a report of a stolen gravel tamper. Th e tamper, which was rented, was taken from a Canal Flats work site sometime during the previous week. Th e description provided was a “Dynapac Plate Tamper” Model 3820. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the RCMP at (250) 342-9292 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

• November 27: At 10:01 a.m., RCMP were called to an argument occurring between a male and female at the Radium Esso in Radium Hot Springs.

Th e initial investigation determined reasonable grounds to arrest the man for assault, which had oc-curred overnight while the couple were vacationing in Fairmont.

Th e man, a 31-year-old Kamloops resident, was subsequently released on a Promise to Appear with “no contact” conditions. He is scheduled to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21st, 2008.

In accordance with her wishes, the woman was taken to Golden by police so she could catch the earli-est bus home to the central interior of the province.

• November 28: At 3:35 p.m., the RCMP re-ceived a call that a woman driving in a red pick-up was ramming her vehicle into an offi ce at the “mall”

on Athalmer Road. Police arrived and located the driver standing outside. Th e issue escalated after an unresolved dispute over money allegedly owed to the driver.

Th e female, a 43-year-old Invermere resident was arrested for mischief to property and later released from custody to appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21st, 2008.

• November 13: RCMP members were patrolling southbound on Highway 93/95 near Dincey Road when they observed a speeding, northbound vehicle. Th e police stopped the vehicle and checked the driver, a 21-year-old Alberta resident.

Th e driver initially displayed symptoms of impair-ment by alcohol, and he was asked to exit his vehicle. When he did, police noticed a quantity of marijuana near the center console of the vehicle. Th e driver was then arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

Police followed up on the impaired driving angle as well, and obtained an roadside breath sample us-ing an approved screening device which indicated a “Fail” reading. Th e driver was read the formal breath demand and he was escorted to the detachment offi ce where two samples were taken, both of which were analyzed at 100 mgs percent.

Th e driver was released from custody on a Promise to Appear in Invermere Provincial Court on January 21, 2008 to answer to the impaired driving and re-

lated charges. Due to the small quantity of marijuana recovered, police are not recommending drug charges in this case.

• November 28: Columbia Valley RCMP received a complaint that a lime green-coloured ATV with high back fenders was operating on Sinclair Avenue in Edgewater. Th e ATV continues to operate at high speeds down the roads as well, and is believed to be the same one that ran from the police a week previously. Anyone with information as to the owner or operator of this vehicle is asked to contact the Columbia Valley Detachment at (250) 342-9292.

• November 29: At 11:10 p.m., RCMP wit-nessed a blue GMC speed by them on 7th Avenue in Invermere. Police stopped the truck and checked the driver and noticed a strong odour of liquor on his breath. Moreover, the truck windows were covered in ice, making it hard to see outside the vehicle.

When RCMP demanded breath samples at the roadside, the driver refused to provide them. He also threatened the police offi cer with bodily harm, for which he was immediately arrested and taken to the detachment cell block. He was released later when he was a bit more sober and less ignorant. Th e man, a 21-year-old Campbell River resident, is scheduled to ap-pear in Invermere Provincial Court on February 19th, 2008. He was also issued a 90-day Automatic Driving Prohibition.


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Bridge closure creates chaosBy Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

A driver carrying an over-height load struck the bridge at Dutch Creek near the Hoodoos on Mon-day, throwing valley roads into chaos as the bridge was closed indefi nitely for a damage assessment. Th e col-lision happened at around 11 a.m. and blocked both sides of Highway 93/95, which was also very icy.

Th e Ministry of Transport had the bridge as-sessed and limited commercial traffi c over the bridge to 24,500 kg or less. A new temporary bridge will be constructed and the Ministry is hoping to have this in place by early next week.

Ministry of Transport engineer Kelly Beriault said the load was being carried on a fl atbed truck which was too high for the bridge.

“We recognise the potential economic impact to commercial businesses throughout the Columbia Val-ley, but we are working 24/7 to construct a temporary bridge as quickly as possible on the old highway a bit further upstream,” she said.

“We hope the temporary bridge will be ready af-ter the weekend. Once it is in place it will only carry single-lane traffi c, but it will be a temporary measure while we carry out a full damage assessment on Dutch Creek bridge, which could take months. But in the short term, we are working through a few options, which could include strengthening Dutch Creek bridge for single-lane traffi c. Northbound traffi c could then use this bridge, while southbound traffi c would use the temporary bridge. Th e Ministry of Transport will be pursuing a claim through the fl atbed truck driver’s insurance,” she said.

Businesses throughout the valley were severely af-fected, as heavy trucks which normally deliver supplies on a daily basis were not able to get through.

Canadian Forest Products Mill, at Forsters Land-ing in Radium Hot Springs, was forced to close.

General manager Lionel Chabot said the incident shut down the mill.

“All our by-products, such as chips, bark, sawdust and planer shavings, fl ow through that bridge. We usually have 30 trucks a day using that bridge, but nothing’s been able to get through.

“Th e sawmill has been completely idle and all 150 employees were sent home on Monday. We’ll probably stay closed until after the weekend. I wouldn’t like to say what our losses are, but I don’t think anything like this has ever aff ected the mill on this scale before,” Mr. Chabot said.

Norm Gagatek, who owns Ateknor Enterprises Ltd., an electrical business in Invermere, said he has also been badly aff ected by the bridge closure.

“I’ve not been able to get any of my wiring sup-plies, which are usually delivered by freight trucks from Cranbrook Express and Dakota. Right now, Dakota is using smaller vans to get the freight across, so they’ve been great by adapting to make it happen.

“As only a limited amount of freight can get through at a time, it has slowed everything right down. We can’t start any new jobs as any new materials are all on hold, and only two of my four staff have been able to work,” Mr. Gagatek said.

Th e bridge closure just added to the severe disrup-tion caused by a huge dump of snow followed by high winds and icy rain across the East Kootenays.

Th e highway was closed from Brisco all the way to the U.S. border as the melting snow turned roads and sidewalks into skating rinks.

Freezing rain brought roads and highways to a standstill across the province, with multiple road clo-sures, and drivers were warned only to use the high-ways if their journey was absolutely essential.

Th e Trans-Canada Highway was reopened on Wednesday morning after being closed since early Monday. Motorists were told to expect some delays as backed-up traffi c started moving again.

Historical Lens


PERSPECTIVE

is independently owned and operated and is published weekly by Abel Creek Publishing Inc.

Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0Phone (250) 341-6299 · Fax (250) 341-6229 Email: upioneer@

telus.net · www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

PIONEERThe Columbia Valley

Th e material, written or artistic, may not be reprinted or electronically repro-duced in any way without the written consent of the publisher. Th e opinions and statements in articles, columns and advertising are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff of Th e 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 for 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.

Rachel PinderReporter

Dave SutherlandAdvertising Sales

Elinor FlorencePublisher

Brian GeisEditor

Zephyr RawbonGraphic Designer

Michele McGroganOffi ce Manager

Sarah TurkProject Manager

Guess who?

Back in 1943, this young Canadian from Outlook, Saskatchewan was serving with the RCAF’s Number 6 Bomb-er Group in England when he visited Edinburgh, Scot-land on leave and thought it would be a good joke to have his photograph taken in full Scottish regalia, in spite of the fact that there wasn’t a Scottish bone in his body.

Today it is unlikely that anyone looking at this photograph would recog-nize him as Earl Pederson from Columere Park.

Photo courtesy of Earl Pederson

Idle thoughtsBy Brian GeisPioneer Editor

If you are out walking the dog around Invermere at 7 a.m., you can’t help but notice about every third or fourth house has a vehicle idling out front. Even if you sleep in, not a day goes by that you don’t see a vehicle idling in front of a store. My fi rst instinct upon seeing an unattended, idling vehicle, of course, is to go for a joy ride. Having lived in seedier neighborhoods, I am hesitant to leave my vehicle unlocked, let alone warmed up, running and ready to go.

After the teenage impulse to “take a vehicle without consent” is subdued, my adult sense of morality (i.e. the Golden Rule), my second thought natu-rally turns to the environmental issue. Letting a vehicle idle while I run into a store feels like littering. And, consid-ering the cost of fuel, the prevalence of engine block heaters for sub-zero condi-tions and the design of modern engines, letting a vehicle idle for ten, 15, 20 minutes or half an hour seems needless,

unwise and lazy. While an anti-idling movement is just now beginning to take shape in B.C., the ethic has been drummed into me for years.

My wife, to my horror and embar-rassment, has no qualms about walking up to a needlessly-idling vehicle and asking the owner to kill the engine. But, then again, how could anyone refuse her?

My father—whose brilliant prac-ticality becomes more and more inge-nious to me the older I get—used to lay a couple of old throw rugs on the wind-shield of his Dodge to keep from having to scrape in the morning.

Th e wisdom behind Invermere’s push to reduce idling among the town’s largest fl eet of vehicles—parents who drive their children to school—is un-deniable. It saves money, saves the envi-ronment, creates a healthier atmosphere for the kids, teaches them a good ethic, and keeps them physically active.

While I am not immune to the urge to let it idle, I promise to tough it out and resist that urge and run that engine only as much as is absoultely necessary.

Public advisory committees questionedDear Editor:

Regarding the article in the November 30th Pi-oneer called “District recruiting public advisors,”

At fi rst glance at the above-mentioned article, I thought: What a good idea.” But upon re-read-ing, it became apparent that the formation of these so-called advisory planning and design committees was more of a Prosser and Company convenience for acknowledging public interest in their present

and future development approvals.Let me explain. Th ese committees will be re-

cruited by Prosser and council totally at their dis-cretion. What criteria will they use in the “recruit-ment” process?

Will there be specifi c or special qualifi cations as to selection, or will it be just favourable and com-promising personalities on these committees? Talk about stacking the deck.

Whatever method of selection is used, it may

all be an exercise in futility. According to the article, Prosser said: “Council reserves the right to disband the committees at any time.” Th is has to be a page out of the federally-appointed commmittee that in-vestigated the RCMP.

If Prosser and council don’t like what he com-mittee members are saying, “Th at’s all, folks!”

Bob NemethInvermere

Historical Lens


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Jumbo Resort willspoil water supply

Dear Editor:

Has anyone noticed how low and how green Toby Creek has become and the smell connected with it?

If the Jumbo development were al-lowed to go ahead, it would be green up to the head of Jumbo Valley, where the 6,250-bed development would be.

Th ere is only a short distance be-tween the creek and where the moun-tain goes up at the back of the develop-ment.

Th ere is only one place for the run-

off from the sewer to go – down the creek.

Why are we allowing developers to ruin our good water sources by putting developments way in the back country, especially where our closest glaciers are?

It would make more sense to save the Jumbo watershed to meet the future needs here in the main valley.

Good water is and will be very hard to come by in the future.

Eileen FullerInvermere

The Sandman Advantage:

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Business Centre 405 Cranbrook St, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 3R5

Phone 250 426 4236 Fax 250 426 3905

Columbia Valley Shoppers Special…

from$90*

per night.

*Columbia Valley Shoppers Special from $90 per

night, includes breakfast for two at Denny’s 24

hour Restaurant. Based on double occupancy.

Rates quoted in Canadian funds. Subject to

availability. Some restrictions may apply.

For Central Reservations, call 1+800+SANDMAN or visit us at sandmanhotels.com

A L W A Y S T H E S M A R T C H O I C E !

Please email your Letters to the Editor to [email protected], or mail them to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K0. You may also

drop them into our offi ce at 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.


Th anks Invermere!After 26 years of serving the valley,

it’s time to close the bay doors and start a new chapter in life. Mickey would like

to thank all of the customers and employees who have helped

make Mickey’s Auto Body a

successful and enjoyable business.

See you on the golf course!

We would like to thank all of you who helped make Mic Ridge Auto Rentals such a wonderful business.

We would like to extend ourcongratulations and best wishes to

Justin, Jason and Michael, as they endeavor to provide you with the same great service.

Mickey’s Auto Body closes its doorsBy Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

When Mickey Riches locked the doors of his busi-ness for the last time last Friday, he had two things on his mind . . . the fi rst was to play more golf, and the second was to take a much-needed holiday.

You see, Mickey hasn’t been on holiday for lon-ger than a week in the past 27 years, so he’s defi nitely overdue.

And although he realizes he won’t be able to play any golf through the winter, he has got his sights set on a vacation to Mexico with his wife Helga. And maybe he’ll be able to fi t in a spot of golf there, too.

He’ll also have a lot more time on his hands to spend with his two children—Vaughn, 32, and Bran-di, 30—and his three grandchildren; Jersey, 3; Cassia, 2; and six-month-old Josie.

Mickey, 51, has been thinking about retirement ever since he sunk a hole in one at the valley’s Tiger Open Golf Tournament this summer, when he was struck with an epiphany.

He decided that after 35 years in the automotive industry he was missing his true calling—golf.

Mickey started Mickey’s Auto Body 27 years ago with his silent business partner and friend, the late

John Spellmann, and began by fi xing vehicles in the industrial park.

In 1987, Mickey bought John out and moved to his shop to its present location at the top of Athalmer Hill.

Over the years, Mickey has worked on everything from cars and boats to airplanes and children’s toys.

He’s also had many interesting experiences, in-cluding the time a customer brought in their vehicle after they’d hit a deer which was already dead and fro-zen to the road.

And he’ll never forget the man who claimed to have hit a sasquatch.

Mickey says his favourite thing is when people call and ask for a quote over the phone, to which his response has always been: “If you can hold your car a little closer to the phone, I will tell you.”

He’s also seen huge changes over the years, in the way cars are being built and the way ICBC is run.

Mickey moved to the valley with his parents from Calgary when he was 15. His father Tracy was also in the car trade, and ran his business called Tracy’s Auto-body in the valley for many years.

Business partners Justin Atterbury, Jason Powers and Michael Richards of Interspire Holdings have taken over the car hire side of the business, Mic Ridge

Auto Rentals, which was run by Mickey’s wife Helga. Th ey will be operating from the current premises for the next couple of weeks, before they move down to a site next to Dairy Queen.

But unfortunately nobody has taken over the auto body shop, so Columbia Valley residents will now have to travel to Golden or Cranbrook.

Mickey is planning to stick around the valley, but is certainly not opposed to starting out his retirement by checking out golf courses in faraway places.

As proud as he is to have served the community for as long as he has, Mickey said it is time to start a new chapter and is looking forward to what the future holds.

“It’s a strange feeling, as I’ve spent my whole life here, but I’m happy with my decision. I’ve never had more than one week’s holiday in my life, and I’d really like to go to Mexico or Arizona,” Mickey said. And luckily for Mickey, he already has his passport.

But he has just one more request before he hangs up his tools for the last time. “I really want to thank everybody I’ve ever worked with over the years, for making Mickey’s Auto Body a great success,” he said.

So watch out for Mickey on a golf course near you, or maybe you’ll bump into him on a beach when you’re on holiday in Mexico.

>>>>>> >>> >>> >>>>EncoreWHAT’S HAPPENING IN THECOLUMBIA VALLEY

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

Your Weekly Guide to

What’s Happening Around the

Columbia Valley

PAGE 11

Out & About

PAGE 21

MOVIE REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

PAGE 10

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

What does ARTmean to you?

Valley Voices Concert · Christ Church TrinityValley Voices Christmas Concert at Christ Church Trinityon December 6th & 7th at 7:30 pm. Tickets at Dave’s, Essentials & Pynelogs.

Cinefest · Toby Theatre · The White MasaiShowing at the Toby Theatre on Monday December 17th at 7 pm.

Pynelogs Cultural Centre • Gallery & Gift Shop closed for the season.Open for functions, ticket sales, rentals and concerts. Office hours: 11 – 4 pm Monday to Friday. For ticket sales and all other info please call 342-4423 .

The White Masai, directed by Hermine Huntgeburth, is a 2005 movie about a Swiss womanwho marries a member of the African Masai tribe. The fi lm, based upon an autobiographical novel

by Swiss writer Corinne Hofmann, is the next feature in the Cinefest Film Series.

THEWHITEMASAI

THEWHITEMASAI

Reviewed by Elinor Florence

Th e Nanny Diaries created a big sensation when the book was fi rst published a few years ago. Written by two former nannies, it is a blistering satire about the lives of New York’s Upper East Side mothers who are so busy shopping, lunching and keep-ing themselves looking young so their wealthy husbands won’t leave them, that they don’t have any time to par-ent their own children.

Th e movie stars the always-engag-ing 23-year-old Scarlett Johannsen as a character known only as Nanny by her employers, Mr. and Mrs. X—a truly unlikeable husband and his glamorous but shallow wife. Nanny is hired to care for their four-year-old son Grayer, and in spite of herself she forms a deep attachment to the unloved little boy.

A recent college graduate herself, Nanny is struggling to fi nd her place in life and discovers through her ob-servations of life among the rich and famous that this is defi nitely not it.

Hence she is reluctant to engage in a romance with the Harvard Hottie who lives in the same building, fearing that she might end up in the same boat as the other crazed young mothers she sees every day.

Laura Linney does a great job of portraying Mrs. X, a driven woman who is downright cruel to the hired help, but essentially just as fragile and starved for love as her neglected child.

Paul Giamatti, who usually has comic roles, plays the repulsive Mr. X. Pop singer Alicia Keys has a small role as Nanny’s friend, and she is drop-dead gorgeous as usual.

Th is isn’t a comedy, but there are a couple of laugh-out-loud moments. And thankfully, a happy ending. I would recommend this movie to girls and mothers everywhere, and Dads only if it’s their turn to watch some-thing their wives select.



RATING: 7 OUT OF 10 HEADS

Review: Nanny Diaries

Book your Xmas parties and outings NOW!Pizza • Appies • Cocktails • Reserve a Pool Table!

NHL NFL on the BIG SCREENS

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Fridays • Sundays • Wednesdays2nd Pizza of equal or lesser value FREE

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the place to party

Gone Hollywood’sTOP FIVE OF THE WEEK

DVD VHSPS2 PS3 XBOX

XBOX 360 GQ WiiPO Box 2800, 503 - 7th Ave., Invermere, V0A 1K0

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1 Live Free or Die Hard2 Hot Rod3 I Know Who Killed Me4 Rescue Dawn5 I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry

Last Week’s Top 5 Rentals New Releases December 4GoneHOLLYWOOD

V I D E O

New Releases December 4

1 Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End2 Superbad3 The Nanny Diaries4 Loves Unending Legacy5 Arctic Tale

1 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix2 Bourne Ultimatum3 A Perfect Day4 First Snow5 December Boys

Red Bow Sample Sale

20% - 40% off

Purcell Mtn. Quilting Co.

Find a special gift for that special personGREAT DEALS RIGHT UP TO CHRISTMAS ON ALL YOUR QUILTING NEEDS!#9 - 492 Arrow Rd. 341-3115

CEDAR WAXWING—Just outside the patio door at Lakeside Manor, there is an orna-mental crab apple tree loaded with fruit. Within three days the crop was harvested, fi rst by Bohemian waxwings and then by their cousins the Cedar Waxwings.

Photo by Ray Crook


Toby Th eatre

• 7:30 pm, Dec. 5-8: Dan in Real Life• 7:30 pm, Dec. 12-15: Martian Child

Friday, December 7th :

• Panorama Mountain Village opens for the ski season.• 9 am: Regional District of East Kootenay monthly general meeting, Cranbrook.• 10 am-noon, 1-3 pm: Visit Santa at the Prestige Inn. Admission by donation. Bring your own camera. Fundraiser for Columbia Valley Family Violence Prevention Society.• Noon-8 pm: Doreen’s Avon Open House, 4836 Stanley Street, Radium.• 7 pm: Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club open house at Columbia Cycle sports store. Free ski tuning/waxing demos and advice, ski lesson registration, early season membership discounts. For info: 341-1737.• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Chase Chiefs, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.• 7:30 pm: Valley Voices Community Choir Christmas Concert, Christ Church Trinity. Tickets $12 adults, $5 students, $2 for children under six, at Dave’s Book Bar, Essentials, and Trims & Treasures in Fairmont.• Andi will make home deliveries of Schöni Artisan Wood Oven Breads on Tuesdays and Fridays, through March. For more info, call 342-7590.

Saturday, December 8th :

• 10 am-noon, 1-3 pm: Visit Santa at the Prestige Inn in Radium. Admission by donation. Bring your own camera. Fundraiser for Columbia Valley Family Violence Prevention Society.• Noon-8 pm: Doreen’s Avon Open House, 4836 Stanley Street, Radium.• 7:30 pm: Christmas dance, Columbia Valley Twirlers Square Dance Club of Radium at Radium Community Centre. Guest caller Rob Krum, Newman Lake, WA. For info: Albert, 347-6573.• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Princeton Posse, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Monday, December 10th:

• 2-7 pm: Early Bird Swim Registration at Radium Pool for all Red Cross and Otter Club programs.

Tuesday, December 11th:

• 1-4 pm: Meet with your MLA Norm Macdonald at the downtown Invermere Inn. Call ahead to make an appointment, 1-866-870-4188.

Th ursday, December 13th:

• 2:30-3:30 pm: Travel Medicine and Vaccination Centre at Dr. Dibbs; medical offi ce, 1317-7th Avenue, Invermere, will have a one-hour drop-in for people who did not qualify for free vaccine. Cost for fl u vaccine is $20.• Th rift Store half-price sale December 13th, 14th, 15th and 20th. Th rift Store will be closed over Christmas, from December 21st to January 9th.• 7 pm: David Th ompson Secondary School band concert. Silver collection at the door.

Friday, December 14th :

• 4 pm: Wings Over the Rockies annual general meeting, followed by regular board meeting, at Pynelogs Centre.• 5:30 pm: Invermere Rotary Club presents the Dinner for Seniors, Invermere Inn. To register, call 342-4242.• 6:45 pm: CPR Holiday Train arrives in Radium. Entertainment by Wide Mouth Mason and Melanie Doan. Bring food item or cash for the food bank.• Today is the deadline for donating food items or cash towards the Christmas Bureau’s food hampers. To donate an Angel Tree gift, visit the children’s Angel Tree at Dairy Queen or the adult and teen Angel Tree at Dave’s Book Bar. For info: Gail, 342-6752 or Helen, 342-6789. If you are making up your own hamper, drop it off at the Invermere Community Hall from 8 am to noon on December 19th.• 5 p.m. Deadline for booking Christmas and New Year’s advertising in Th e Pioneer. Call 341-6299.

Saturday, December 15th :

• Free two-day drum-making workshop for aboriginal youth starts today in the Town of Golden meeting room. For info: (250) 344-8924.• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Sicamous Eagles, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Sunday, December 16th :

• 2 pm: Santa on Vacation Ice Carnival, presented by

the Columbia Valley Figure Skating Club at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. Concession, door prizes.• 2 pm: Children’s Christmas Party at the Windermere Hall. Santa, free goodie bags, and hot chocolate.• 6 pm: Lakeside Pub’s Annual Food Bank Benefi t Concert. Bring a non-perishable food item.• 5:45-6:45 pm: Free Skate at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, sponsored by Tim Hortons. A Tim Hortons’ bicycle will be raffl ed off , along with other prizes. Free hot chocolate and cookies.

Monday, December 17th:

• 7 pm: Cinefest presents the White Masai, Toby Th eatre, tickets $10 each.

Wednesday, December 19th :

• Christmas Hamper distribution day. Donors must deliver their hampers to the Invermere Community Hall from 8 am to noon; recipients may pick up hampers from 3 pm to 7 pm.• Western Canadian Bartender Flair Competition at Bud’s Bar. Come and watch the top six Western Canadian bartenders in action and help raise money for the Pet Rescue Network. For info: 342-2965.

Friday, December 21st:

• Invermere Th rift Store closed from now until January 9th. Merry Christmas!• 7 pm: Cinefest presents the White Masai, Toby Th eatre, tickets $10 each.• 7:30 pm: Rockies Hockey Team plays Sicamous Eagles, Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

Invermere Library Hours:

• Tuesday & Friday: 10 am-5:30 pm• Wednesday: noon-8 pm• Th ursday: noon-5:30 pm• Saturday: 10 am-4 pm

Radium Library Hours:

• Tuesday - 7-9 pm• Wednesday: 2-4 pm• Th ursday: 2-4 pm, 7-9 pm• Saturday: 10 am-noon• Sunday: 2-4 pm

Invermere Th rift Store Hours:

• 10 am-4 pm: Th ursdays.• 1-4 pm: Fridays and Saturdays.• Half-price sale December 13th, 14th, 15th and 20th. Th rift Store closed from December 21st to January 9th.

Out & AboutPlease call 341-6299

or Email us at [email protected] enter your event in our FREE listings.


Elevate Your New Year’s Experience

A New Year’s Toast with a Special HostBe a part of the inaugural New Year’s celebration with your friends at Eagle Ranch! It is sure to be a special evening

highlighted with Chef, Eric Wood’s six-course tasting menu. Dance to live entertainment, lift your glass for a complimentary champagne toast, and bask in the glamour as we treat you to a Service Beyond experience like no

other. Th ink fast, act soon, seating is limited! Tickets $100, 4 seating times beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Call 1-877-877-3889 or locally 342-6560 and before noon 342-0562 • www.eagleranchresort.com


with Saturday, Dec. 15th Wednesday, Dec. 19th

The Best in the West!Western Canadian Bartender FlairCompetition

$2000 1st PrizeCome and watch the “Top 6 Western Canadian Competitors”enjoy great drinks from our drink auction, and help raise money for the ICAN, Pet Rescue Network

Bud’s is where it’s at! 342-2965

Shelley invites you to help celebrate

2nd Year Anniversary

Shelley invites you to help celebrate

2nd Year Anniversary

Welcome in the New Year at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

New Year’s Eve Gala Join us in the Cedar Ballroom for a New Years party you won’t soon forget! Dinner, live entertainment, dancing, party favours and a glass of bubbly at midnight. Casual elegant dress; this party is for those 16 years and older.

*Advance tickets are required. $52.95 per person plus GST. Available at the Front Desk

For tickets 250.345.6311

[email protected]

Read us online at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: (250) 341-6299

Th e valley’s best read newspaper! 6,000 copies from Cranbrook to Golden. 2,000 copies in Calgary.


N E W S P A P E R

O B J E C T I V E , C R E A T I V E ,

I N F O R M A T I V E !O B J E C T I V E , C R E A T I V E ,

I N F O R M A T I V E !

By Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

Seven registered char-ities across the Columbia Valley are celebrating af-ter being awarded grants totalling $13,734.59.

Th e grants for the fall of 2007 have been awarded by the Colum-bia Valley Community Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to enhancing quality of life across the valley, from Canal Flats to Spillim-acheen.

Th eir aim is to work in the com-munity by focusing on fundraising and grant-making, using monetary dona-tions.

Th ese donations are invested, pri-marily in permanent and endowment funds, and are distributed to worth-while charities.

Foundation chair Seona Helmer ex-plained that each year applications are submitted for grants in the spring and fall.

Th e seven organizations which benefi ted are the Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley, which received a $1,500 grant for a computer and printer; Columbia Valley Arts Council, which was awarded $2,200 to make im-provements to exterior safety and secu-rity lighting at Pynelogs Cultural Cen-tre; and the Windermere Valley Youth Centre Society, which received $1,500 for its River of Change project.

Th is project is the second annual Youth Empowerment Camp to be held at Blue Lake Camp. Th ere will be a guest speaker who is licensed to provide “Th e Seven Habits of Highly Eff ective Teens” workshop.

Wilmer Community Club was also a big winner. Th e club made an appli-cation through the Windermere Val-ley Youth Centre Society, and received $2,500 to create a new playground to replace the old one which is old and run-down.

Wildsight was award-ed $2,034.59 for their project “Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities—Lake Windermere Proj-ect: Streamkeeper.”

Th is project aims to provide a specialized kit and allow training for people to use the kit to monitor health of streams in the area.

Th e information from this kit will gener-ate data that will be used by the Department of-Fisheries and Oceans and

Wildsight. Th e Columbia River Greenways

Alliance received a grant of $2,000 to construct the Dry Gulch Trail ( Radium to Dry Gulch segment), and two signs at the Dry Gulch Kiosk.

In May 2006, ground trail con-struction began and the Radium to Dry Gulch section should be completed by December 2008.

Th is trail, once complete, will be a key piece of the group’s work to install both a greenway and trail network that spans the length of the Upper Colum-bia River Valley from Canal Flats to Donald, north of Golden.

And fi nally, the Family Resource Centre was awarded $2,000 to bring speaker Jackson Katz to Invermere on December 13th to discuss gender vio-lence.

Th e Columbia Valley Foundation has been going since 2001, and there are similar organisations across Canada.

Th e Foundation has about $600,000 invested, but is limited by its charter to giving gifts only to registered chari-ties. In the past fi ve years, it has funded many projects from Lake Windermere playground to the Columbia Valley wetlands.

Other organizations can be sup-ported, but only through registered charities. Some funds have been given to the District of Invermere to support groups within the District such as the Arts Council and the skatepark.

Community Foundationawards annual grants

to seven valley charities

Seona Helmer,Foundation Chair

December 7, 2007 The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 13

LATE NIGHT SHOPPINGOpen ‘til 8 pm every Friday until Christmas!

7th Ave. Invermere 341-3775

www.begifted.com

• Pre-done Gift Baskets • Customized Gift Baskets • Great Stocking Stuffers • Gourmet Food & Beverages • Barefoot Venus Spa Products • Home Decor & Centrepieces

In store specials for late night shopping! We now offer gift wrapping services!

DTSS Bands in Concert

Thursday

December 13th

DTSS Gym

7:00 pm

Band 9, Band 8, Sr. Concert Band, Sr. Stage BandSilver Collection at door

Thank you for your support!



Pretty WomanPretty WomanWe will fi t you from head to

toe in fi ne designs ranging from business, casual or evening.

NEW FALL ARRIVALSAND “RED HATS”

“Look as pretty as you feel”

OPEN: Tuesday through Saturday 9 to 5323 Kootenay Street North, Cranbrook (250) 426-3356

Wilmer resident James Th orsell has been presented with the prestigious James B. Harkin Conservation Medal for his out-standing contribution to con-serving wilderness and national parks around the world.

Dr. Th orsell, 66, formerly of Banff , received the award on November 21st at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ot-tawa from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society.

Th e J. B. Harkin medal, named after “the father of Can-ada’s national parks,” is present-ed by the society to individuals who have made an outstand-ing contribution to conserving Canada’s parks and associated conservation areas. Past recipi-ents include the Honourable Jean Chrétien, Dr. Stan Rowe and Elizabeth May.

Dr. Th orsell’s distinguished 45-year career began with pio-neering academic research on parks and wilderness in Canada. He moved on to work for Canadian park agencies, and in 1984 became executive offi cer of World Con-servation Union Commission on National Parks and Protected Areas based in Switzerland, and the se-nior advisor to the World Heritage Committee.

Dr. Th orsell was responsible

for naming Canada’s Nahanni Na-tional Park Reserve as UNESCO’s fi rst natural World Heritage Site. He evaluated more than 150 natu-ral sites for the Commission on National Parks, resulting in one million square kilometres of land being brought under the World Heritage Convention.

Th e Canadian Parks and Wil-derness Society is Canada’s leading voice for public wilderness protec-

tion and has had a key role in estab-lishing over two-thirds of Canada’s protected areas since 1963.

Dr. Th orsell alternates his time between Wilmer and his second home in Mexico. He is still work-ing part-time on world heritage sites for UNESCO, which has taken him to China and Galapagos Islands over the past two months.

“Exotic as that may seem, my heart and my roots are still in the Rockies and I am already look-ing forward to getting back in the spring,” he said.

“I spend a lot of time at Nipika Lodge where I am a partner and take a special interest in the Co-lumbia wetlands, particularly now that it is a Ramsar site, and needs commenserate attention. Th e Na-ture Conservancy Board is also an eff ective group and, as a Board member for B.C., I do what I can to promote their work.

“I am also on the Board of the Mark Kingsbury Foundation who, as you may know, has been sup-porting the Greenways project. On a very local level I am also on the committee who are working to ar-range some events to commemorate the arrival in Canada of the famous mountain guide Conrad Kain, an-other former Wilmer resident. Th is barely leaves time for my hunting, fi shing and horse trips!”

Wilmer environmentalistreceives prestigious medal

Dr. James Th orsell on the White River.Photo by Grant Costello

Great rates, products and servicewww.meridianmortgagesolutions.com

No more searching for the lowest mortgage rates…

Bill Rainbow Mortgage Broker(250) 342-3453


YOUR MONEY

Market Action As of December 4th, 2007 Weekly Gain/Loss YTDS&P/TSX Composite Index 13,657 336.16 5.80%Dow Jones Industrial Average 13,314 571.58 6.83%Nikkei 15,628 493.97 -9.76%Oil (New York) $89.31 -8.39 46.29%Gold (New York) $794.70 16.70 24.17%Canadian Dollar (in US dollars) $0.9998 -0.0091 19.48%

Two new special trustsoff er tax advantages

Most people review their Investment portfolio regularly!When was the last time you reviewed your Life Insurance Portfolio?

In our ever changing world it is important that your insurance is reviewed constantly to ensure that it is the best and most appropriate coverage available.

As one of the valley’s only truly independent Life Insurance brokers, I have access to most of the major carriers and can help you to ensure that you have the best products to suit your needs.

For a complimentary review and to see if we can lower your cost or improve the quality of your existing coverage call me at 342-5052 or just stop in to the Berkshire offi ce and ask to see Jason.

Jason Elford has been a wealth management specialist in Calgary for more than 9 years. Now a full time resident of Invermere, Jason recently joined the Berkshire offi ce with Brendan Donahue.

Jason ElfordCertifi ed Financial Planner

Insurance Advisor712 - 10th Street, Invermere

Phone: 342-5052

Like other trusts, the alter ego trust and joint spousal trust allow you to avoid probate.

But these two recently introduced trusts off er unique tax advantages as well.

Normally, when you transfer assets to a trust, our tax law treats those assets as if they had been sold. Th at means if there had been any increase in the value of those assets since the date they were originally ac-quired, a tax would have to be paid on that increase.

However, when you transfer assets to an alter ego trust or a joint spousal trust, this does not happen.

Although the trust is in fact the new owner of the assets, from an income tax perspective, the transfer of ownership is treated as if it had never happened.

So even if there had been an increase in the value of the assets, there would be no tax on that increase.

Conditions for creating the trusts:For one thing, you must be 65 or older to use the

alter ego trust or the joint spousal trust.And in order for the trust to qualify as an alter

ego trust, you must be the sole benefi ciary during your lifetime.

Prior to your death, all income in the trust will be payable to you and you will pay all the tax on that income. As well, you can also access the capital in the trust.

When you die, the trust will hold any remaining assets for the benefi t of other benefi ciaries named in the trust deed.

Th e trust will be able to distribute those assets to those other benefi ciaries without the assets having to go through the probate process.

You could also choose to gift the assets to a joint

spousal trust. In a joint spousal trust, the initial ben-efi ciaries must be you and your spouse during your respective lifetimes.

On the death of the surviving spouse, the trust would start to hold the trust assets for other persons you name in the trust deed. In particular, your spouse would not be able to change the identity of these ulti-mate benefi ciaries.

Example of how it works:Here’s an example of how you can use a spousal

trust to ensure your assets are distributed exactly how you want.

Let’s assume a married couple with two children. One spouse dies and the other remarries.

If the deceased spouse had simply left their assets to the other spouse in a will, it would be possible for the new spouse to eventually inherit all the assets and the children get nothing.

However, if the deceased spouse had created a joint spousal trust, with the children as benefi ciaries, this could not happen.

Th e surviving spouse would receive an income from the trust while alive. Upon their death, the assets of the trust would go to the children.

Trusts in general are important for four reasons. A trust lets you avoid the public process of probate. A trust is more powerful than a will in ensuring your wishes are carried out. A trust helps you optimize your estate’s tax situation. A trust allows you to create unique fi nancial solutions.

If you want information about how a trust may help your estate, or your tax planning, contact your lawyer or an estate planning expert.

Brendan DonahueInvestment AdvisorPhone: 342-2112

GIC Rates as of December 4th cashable 4.50%90 days 4.65%1 yr 4.65%2 yrs 4.65%3 yrs 4.80%4 yrs 4.90%5 yrs 5.00%

New USD High Interest Savings Accounts

No minimum balances 4.30%

No fees

Interest calculated daily, paid monthly

Redeemable at any time

RRSP and RRIF eligible

InvestmentsGICs, Stocks, Bonds, Preferred Shares,

Income Trusts, Mutual Funds, High Interest Savings, RRSPs

Rates subject to change without notice.Subject to availability.


Don’t miss another epic winter, buy your Season Pass now.

The World Cup party may be over but we’re ready to ski and the fun is just beginning.On behalf of all the crew at Panorama Mountain Village,thanks for showing the best of our valley to the world!

Panorama opens

with top to bottom skiing!

ADVERTISING DEADLINE: December 10th, 2007

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Box 868 · Invermere, B.C. · V0A 1K0Phone: (250) 341-6299Fax: (250) 341-6229 e-mail: [email protected]

Call or e-mail to book your

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Book Now To Wish The Columbia Valley

M Christmas

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MLA MEETING DAYTuesday, December 11th

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Best WesternInvermere Inn(downtown)

Call ahead to makean appointment

1-866-870-4188www.NormMacdonald.ca

norm.m


Snow bunnies are all set to try out the fi rst runs of the season at Panorama this weekend, which opens for business today, December 7th.

Earlier this week, a huge storm dumped over 60 centimetres of snow on the mountain, setting Panorama up for an excellent opening to the season.

According to Marke Dickson, Pan-orama’s marketing manager, Environ-ment Canada is calling for yet anoth-er cool and snowy winter in the B.C. Rockies region.

“All climate models suggest that the 2007/08 snow season will be outstand-ing and so far the forecasters have it right,” he said.

According to Mr Dickson, the winter is off to a fantastic start. “Last month, Panorama hosted World Cup ski racing and over 140 million people saw just how much snow there is on this mountain, and that was before this huge storm,” he said.

Panorama opens with the full 4000 vertical feet of terrain available and eight out of nine lifts open. For more, visit www.skipanorama.com.

Th e next generation of Canadian ski racing champions have been testing out the runs this week, at the Alpine Canada Alpin National Training Centre at Panorama Mountain Village.

Devonian Properties Rising Star camps are bringing future ski racing prospects to the training centre over the next couple of weeks.

Devonian Properties Inc. is a land developer which operates a number of properties in Canmore and Fort Mc-Murray, Alberta, and has made a three-year commitment to the development camps.

Th e camps include training in sla-lom, giant slalom, super-G and skills training, in addition to many diff erent drills, tests and exercises both on and off the hill.

Th e top 35 ski racers in Canada aged 15 and 16 years old were at the Panorama National Training Centre for the J1 Devonian Rising Stars develop-ment camp from Sunday to Th ursday this week.

Th ey will be followed by another 35 teens aged 13 and 14 from across Canada for the K2 Devonian Rising Stars from December 12th to Decem-ber 16th.

Panorama opens todaywith plenty of powder


Invermere Volunteer Fire Department

A&WAcklands Affordable FloorsAG FoodsAnglzArnage ConsultantsAteknor Enterprises Ltd.Avion Construction Azure Massage and WellnessBargain ShopBest Western Invermere InnBlue DogBMOCanwest PropaneCardell HomesColumbia Valley Airport Columbia Valley RockiesColumbia Valley Trading Co.Cutloose Hair Saloon Dairy QueenDave’s Book BarDeck ElectricDetails by Jo AnneDistrict of InvermereDollar StoreDR SportsEagle Ranch East Kootenay RealtyEssence Of SoundEssentialsFairmont GoldsmithFusion Wellness SpaGerry’s Gelati Godlien Small Engine Inc.Gone HollywoodGrant’s FoodsGreyWolf Golf CourseGypsum Dry Wall

High Country PropertiesHippi Chic Home HardwareInside Edge BoutiqueInterior World Invermere CandylandInvermere Sales & RentalInvermere Vet ClinicIt’s a Wrap Kicking Horse Coffee Kicking Horse FordKonig Meats Kool Country Auto PartsLake AutoLake Windermere PointLambert InsuranceLambert Kipp PharmacyLordco Majestic U Brew & WineMarion Ekman /AvonMax Helmer ConstructionMcToogle’s Restaurant Monkey’s UncleMr. TireMustard SeedNapa Auto PartsOasis GiftsOne Hour PhotoOutdoor StorePalliser Printing Pamper Yourself Spa PanoramaPeacock Embroidering Penner’s ShoesPeppi’ s PizzaPete’s Marina Petro Canada Pointe of View

Portabella Restaurant Pro West ExteriorsPtarmigan Rug Cleaners Quiniscoe Homes Radium Esso Radium Valley Vacation ResortRCI TravelRK Heli SkiRob’s Bicycle Works Rock Works LandscapingRoger’s RechargeRonaScrappy Do’s SearsShaw Enterprises Skandia Concrete Skookum Family RestaurantSkookum Inn Smith, Green & Andruschuck

AccountantsStrand’s RestaurantSuperior PropaneSyndicate Board ShopTamara’s Jewelry by DesignTe Papa NuiThe PlaceThe SourceTiffany’s ThredzTim Hortons Touch of DutchTown and Country FeedTravel WorldValley Fitness CenterValley Hair StylingValley Shine ShopWalkers Auto Repair Warwick InteriorsWindermere Valley Golf Course

to everyone who contributed to the very successful Firemen’s Ball.

Exercise machine latest fi tness toolBy Rachel PinderPioneer Staff

If sweating it out in the gym is not for you, a new revolutionary vibrational exercise therapy could be just the thing to remove those unwanted inches.

Melanie Hollowink recently opened Pure Wellness at her home on Canyon View Road in Invermere, which off ers the use of a Proellixe Vi-bration machine.

For those people who can’t exercise due to injury, or even just lack of time or motivation, it’s easy to step on the machine for 10 minutes per day.

Th e machine works in an oscillat-ing motion, so muscles automatically react by stretching and contracting.

Melanie, who previously ran the Body and Soul gift shop with her mother Lila Fodchuk in Invermere for 12 years, was born and raised in the val-ley. It was while running the shop that

Melanie’s interest in aromatherapy and health and wellness developed.

Six months ago she met a friend who told her about vibration therapy treatment she had been having in Co-chrane, Alberta. Melanie went along to try out the machine a couple of times and really liked it.

“Six weeks later, I’d lost two inches off my sides. I started feeling really good, and I had more energy throughout the day. I got hooked, and I thought it would be wonderful to bring this vibra-tion therapy to Invermere, so people in the valley can enjoy the benefi ts too.”

Melanie explained that the ma-chine tones and fi rms muscles, reduces cellulite, relieves pain and helps injury recovery. “And it enhances energy and mood, as well as reducing stress, bal-ancing hormones and creating an over-all sense of well-being,” she said.

She explained that people who’ve had a sports injury will benefi t as this is

an easy way to work out without fear of aggravating a weakness.

She claims that 10 minutes is equivalent to a two-hour workout.

“Some of our clients have been coming since day one, and the results they’ve seen already are amazing. After just one month, fi ve out of fi ve clients lost inches and overall they are all seeing results. Th eir energy levels are amazing, they have increased fl exibility and they just feel stronger.”

Pure Wellness also off ers vitamin juices and detox teas, as well as detox bath salts. Th ere are also soya bean lo-tion candles available and salt crystal lamps, which help to purify the air.

Th e fi rst three sessions are free. A custom-made program will then be drawn up, which caters specifi cally to their needs, based on the individual’s health restraints and what they hope to achieve by using the machine. For more information, call 342-5535.Melanie Hollowink on vibration machine.




Panorama opens


We are paying the taxes for the month

of December!

We are open Wednesday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm

and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm

Ph: 342-0707e-mail: [email protected] • www.tepapanui.comInvermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

Christmas comes early atChristmas comes early at

WELCOMES JULIEAre you looking for a fun innovative stylist, a salon with an upbeat

atmosphere and a fabulous price?

Phone Hair Tricks at 342-7264and book your appointment with

Julie or Teresa just in time for the holiday season.

WELCOMES JULIE

Get on board!Syndicate Boardshop had its grand opening last weekend at the former Reddi-Mart

store in Athalmer. Here business partners Jeremy Donald and Eric Lange pose with the new range of kit in their store, which stocks mainly snowboarding apparel, but has moved into skis, wakeboards, skateboards, shoes and accessories to go with it, from sun-glasses to hoodies. Syndicate staff and friends also celebrated the opening at Bud’s Bar on Saturday. For information call 342-3839 or visit www.syndicateboardshop.com.


To view our full line -up visit w w w.cranbrookdodge.com1-800-663-2268

1725 Cranbrook St. (250) 426-6614

CARS1997 Mercury Sable V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07276B ................................................................................................$4,9951999 Chrysler Concorde LX V6, Auto Loaded Stk#T08152A ..........................................................................$5,9952002 Ford Focus SE 4 cyl, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1114A ..............................................................................................$9,9952002 Acura I-7 4 cyl, Auto, Loaded Stk#T08073A ........................................................................................................$14,9952002 Pontiac Grand Am V6, Auto Loaded Stk#T07492A .....................................................................................$6,9952004 Chrysler Intrepid V6, Auto Loaded Stk#U1158A .........................................................................................$9,9952004 Pontiac Vibe GT 4cyl, 6 spd, loaded Stk#C08003A .................................................................................$15,9952005 Dodge SX2.0 4cyl, Auto, A/C Stk#U1083A ...........................................................................................................$10,9952005 Nissan Altima SE V6, Auto, Leather, Loaded Stk#C07193A ....................................................$21,9952006 Chevy Aveo 4cyl, 5spd, A/C Stk#U1048A ....................................................................................................................$9,9952006 Chrysler 300 Ltd V6, Auto, Leather, Loaded Stk#T07507C ......................................................$24,9952007 Chrysler Sebring Touring V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1132 .........................................................$19,900

TRUCKS2007 Dodge Ram 3500 QC Diesel, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#U1163 ............................................ $43,9002006 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab Diesel, 6 spd, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07458A ..............$35,9952004 Ford F350 Ext Cab Diesel, Auto Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07125A ...................................................$24,9952003 Ford F350 Ext Cab Diesel, 6 spd, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07542A ...............................................$19,9952003 Dodge 3500 QC Diesel, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#T07557A ..........................................................$31,9952006 GMC 1500 Ext Cab V8, Auto, Loaded, 4x4 Stk#U1130 ..................................................................$23,995

VANS1999 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, AWD Stk#C07372B ......................................................................................................$8,9952002 Pontiac Montana V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07384A ..................................................................................$10,9952002 Dodge Caravan V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07384A .............................................................................................$9,9952007 Dodge Grand Caravan, V6, Stow’n’Go, Auto, Loaded Stk#U1151 ............................$23,995

SUV’S2007 Jeep Compass 4 cyl, Auto, A/C, 4x4 Stk#C07285A ..................................................................................$22,9952007 Jeep Patriot 4 cyl, Auto, 4x4, Loaded Stk#T07550A ............................................................................$25,9952006 Pontiac Torrent V6, Auto, Loaded Stk#T07363A ........................................................................................$23,9952005 Hyundai Tucson V6, Auto, Leather, AWD Stk#T07425C .................................................................$20,9951991 Chevy Blazer V6, Auto, 4x4 Stk#T08108A ..................................................................................................................$3,995

www.eagleranchresort.com

Location: Th e Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch, 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail(From Hwy 93/95, turn at traffi c lights. Entrance is on the right. From Invermere, turn left on Eagle Ranch Trail, off Athalmer Road)

*Clubhouse closed at 5:00 p.m. Friday, December 14 for scheduled function

A Charming Holiday Experience!Enjoy holiday season specials available in

the Golf Shop at Eagle Ranch

Regular Fall/Winter Hours of Operation: Wed – Sat 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or by special appointment

All Clothing 20–70% off Stuff those stockings with one of our gold star specials:

Select Sun Ice jackets now $40. Select Tommy Hilfi ger, Greg Norman, Aureus, and Hollas golf shirts now just $25.

Call 1-877-877-3889 or locally 342-0562 for appointment • www.eagleranchresort.com

Mom’s Hockey MomentsBy Cheryl BachinskiPioneer Columnist

Th e games at the rinks have been a bit chillier this past week. Th ere was, most cer-tainly, a winter “nip” in the air. For a few days, I thought I was back home in Winnipeg. Brrr!

Our Bantam Boys House team heated up the ice at a tournament they attended in Rossland, fi nishing in an impressive sec-ond place overall.

Th e boys played solid hockey, including a nail-biter on Saturday against Trail, where they were ahead going in to the third until they found themselves with three players in the penalty box. Trail tied up the game on the power play, and Invermere came out with a draw.

Th ey faced off against Kelowna Sunday morning and came away with a big win, sending them into the fi nals where they faced Beaver Valley. It was a hard-fought game. Th e boys never gave up and secured sec-ond place, winning silver medals. Well done, boys!

Th e boys wish to say “thanks” to their coach, Glen Doucette, and to Peter Torma, who stepped up as trainer on the bench for the weekend. Congratula-tions on an awesome weekend of hockey.

Th e Midget girls hosted two league games against Medicine Hat this past weekend. On Saturday, the girls lost 3-0. Th ey out-worked the Medicine Hat team, but could not get the puck past their goalie.

Th ey faced off again on Sunday. Th e girls played solid hockey and their hard work paid off with a 6-2 win. Becky Olsen had a great game, playing both defensive and off ensive positions, netting a hat trick. Hannah Macklin popped in two goals and Shannon McCarthy scored the other Invermere goal.

Th e Midget girls are in fi rst place in their division with an impressive 8-2 record. Way to go, girls!

Our Bantam girls traveled to Pincher Creek, play-ing teams from the Central Alberta league.

Th e girls represented themselves very well. Th ey carried most of the play throughout the weekend, but came away with a 1-3 record, recording their only win against Okotoks.

Th ey held their own, but had trouble fi nding the back of the net.

Th e girls are home for one weekend before they head out for a tournament in Olds. Th e hockey will be at a higher level, but I am sure our girls are up for the challenge.

I will be busy this week with the Purdy’s Choco-lates due to arrive. I have already prepared my husband for a few hours of sorting with me. Th ank goodness, I love chocolate!

Th anks to all the minor hockey players for an in-credible amount of chocolate sales. Watch for your chocolate order in the next week or so.

Congratulations to Amanda Gould from Radium, who was the lucky winner of our wood ticket raffl e. Th e draw was made at the Rockies game on Dec. 1st. Amanda has the choice of a truck-load of fi rewood or $500 cash.

Congratulations, Amanda, and thank you for sup-porting Windermere Valley Minor Hockey.

The Pioneer’s holiday advertising deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, December 14th for both our Christmas issue on December 21st and our New Year’s issue on December 28th.NOTICE



Photo: Bram Rossm

an ww

w.extrem

exposures.ca


Panorama opens


Th e Old ZoneBy Harold HazelaarPioneer Columnist

I have accumulated a number of newsworthy tidbits from a number of recent OldTimer games that should be men-tioned:

A couple of pro-lifi c goal scorers have emerged this year and they are not the fi rst names that come to mind when I think of goal-scoring, so these guys must be good.

First is Wallace Ross, who scored four goals in a single game a couple of weeks ago. I’m not even sure what Teresa is supposed to do about that. I think the last guy who got four goals in a game was single!

Th e other guy is a rookie, who prob-ably just doesn’t know better, (he’s sup-posed to pass to the vets, not do all the scoring), but Stacy Szabo seems to have a natural instinct for directing the puck toward the net as he potted three in a single game recently, much to Tammy’s chagrin!

Have I mentioned this year already, that I think we need another rink?

In a recent game, the Huckleberry Hawks managed to have their second, three-man breakaway of the season.

On the fi rst one, John Swallow for-got that the puck has to cross the blue line fi rst; and on the second one, the threesome got confused and shot the puck into the corner instead of at the net, so they are still searching for their fi rst breakaway shot on goal of the sea-son! I’m glad I wasn’t part of either of those messes!

On December 19th our members will be voting for their new executive.

Brent Raven, Dave Oaks and myself have held the positions for a number of years, (6-4-8 respec-tively) and I’m begin-ning to wonder when we will be dumped. So far there are no other nomi-nees. I wonder what that means?

I’m really glad that we don’t have the same

rule as the NHL where the team that ices the puck cannot change lines. Can you imagine how many heart attacks we would have if guys had to stay on the ice?

Sadly this season, we are playing hockey each week without seeing Nev Anderson on the ice.

Back in March, at our wind-up ban-quet, we didn’t get the chance to say good-bye to the feisty goal-scoring ma-chine who played with me four or fi ve of the last seven seasons, because he had to miss our year-end party for family reasons.

So now I am taking the time to pub-licly say goodbye and thanks for all your contributions to our league.

You truly are a unique character and I am glad to have had the opportunity to be your teammate! Come on tough guy—quit crying!

And fi nally, just in case you care . . . Nov. 28th results: Lake Auto over

Huckleberry’s, Petro-Can over Inside Edge, Hi Heat tied Valley Vision, and Warwick over Kicking Horse.

CVOHA League Standings

TEAM WINS LOSSES TIES POINTS

Warwick Wolves 9 1 0 18

Huckleberry Hawks 7 3 1 15

Lake Auto Mustangs 7 3 1 15

Hi Heat Hustlers 5 3 2 12

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes 5 5 1 11

Valley Vision Vultures 4 6 1 9

Inside Edge Black Smoke 4 7 0 8

Kicking Horse Coffee 2 8 1 5

Dale Christian Mudders 1 8 1 3


Christmas Bureau of the Columbia ValleyDid you put in your request for a hamper

by calling 342-6752 or 342-6789?

Did you donate a child’s angel gift at Dairy Queen or an adult or teen angel gift

at Dave’s Book Bar?

Did you phone in your hamper sponsorship to 342-6752 or email [email protected]?

Sponsors, please remember to drop your hamper off Wednesday, December 19th

at the Invermere Community Hall between 8 a.m. and 12 noon.

Pick up hampers and gifts Wednesday, December 19th from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Make a Christmas Wish Come True!

1.800.505.8998 [email protected]

Environmental InitiativesProgram Pilots New Small Grants Stream

Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Environmental Initiatives Program (EIP) is now accepting applications for community-initiated and supported environmental projects in the Basin. The EIP supports projects that address current and future impacts of human communities on local and regional aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Requests for up to $20,000 per project are invited.

New this year…CBT has added a small grants stream to the EIP – this means a shorter and simpler application form for requests under $5,000. The small grant application forms will be available January 30, 2008. Please watch the CBT website for details.

Support during proposal development is available through The Land Conservancy and Columbia-Kootenay Fisheries Renewal Partnership. Contact the Golden CBT ofce for details at 1-800-505-8998 or 250-344-7065, or email [email protected].

Completed applications, for both the large and small grants, must be received no later than March 7, 2008 at 3:30 pm PST/4:30 pm MST.

For a detailed program description, eligibility criteria, or an application guide and form, visit the CBT website at www.cbt.org or phone 1-800-505-8998.

Just a reminder… The classifi ed deadline is 12 noon Tuesday.

Submitted by the Christmas Bureau

As the snow and Christmas lights on Main Street Invermere inspire festive shopping, the Christmas Bu-reau gives you the opportunity to buy something for somebody who wouldn’t otherwise receive a Christ-mas gift.

With the help of two of our many corporate part-ners, and generous shoppers like you, the Christmas Bureau arranges that families requesting hampers also receive gifts from anonymous donors on Christmas morning.

Angel Trees in the Dairy Queen and Dave’s Book Bar are decorated with tags that give the gender and age of a potential gift recipient and a suggestion for an appropriate gift.

Th is year, to eliminate work for the shops’ harried cashiers, we ask that you choose a tag, complete the bottom portion with your name and telephone num-ber and place it in a box near the cash desk in the store. Take the top portion of the tag with you.

After you’ve found a suitable gift, wrap it attrac-tively, tape the top portion of the card to the gift and

return it to the store by Dec. 12th. Remember, in the interests of equality, all gifts should be in the $20 to $25 range.

Tags for children, infants up to 14-year-olds, are on the tree at Dairy Queen. Remember, parents, knowing what their children need, have made the gift suggestions. If the gift suggestion is pyjamas, and you would prefer to give a toy, enclose a small toy with the pyjamas, as long as you can keep within the $20 to $25 limit.

We all think, “Christmas is for children,” but adults and teens appreciate a treat, too. Although teens may be beyond wanting toys, they still appreciate a book, a board game or a CD. In needy families, parents sac-rifi ce all year, denying themselves luxuries in order to buy their children school supplies, sports equipment, and new boots. Many community elders survive on modest pensions and, unless they have family nearby, might receive no other gift than yours. Don’t forget to check out the gift tags for seniors, adults and teens at Dave’s Book Bar.

Be an Angel and bring joy to another Columbia Valley family.

Getting into the spiritDenise Grocutt from Fairmont bought a snowman for her daughter Kyra from Kathie Pagnucco at the 14th

original Christmas Craft Sale. Th e sale was held last Friday and Saturday at Invermere Community Hall, and was a fantastic success. A total of $1,500 was raised through admission proceeds, baking and a raffl e, which will go to the Windermere Valley Child Care Society. Event organizer Carolyn Barzilay said: “We were down a few hundred people on Friday but I think that was due to the cold, although overall it was a great success.”

Christmas Bureau reminds peopleto purchase Angel Tree Gifts

Christmas Gifts?It’s easy as 1•2•3

1. Write your Christmas gift basket list.

2. Call Jayne with your order.3. Enjoy your holidays!

Christmas Gifts?It’s easy as 1•2•3

www.itsawrapgiftbaskets.ca 342-3160 342-3160


At Th e LibraryDescartes’ Secret Notebook: A True Tale of Mathematics, Mysticism, and the Quest to Understand the Universe by Amir D. Aczel

Reviewed by Sheila Bonny

Descartes’ Secret Notebook is an exploration of the mysterious life of Rene Descartes, the renowned 17th century French mathematician and philosopher.

Foremost among Descartes’ con-tributions to mathematics is the Car-tesian coordinate system that permits us to describe numerically any point in space and is the foundation for global positioning systems, digital photography and data analysis. His rationalism, the explanation all hu-man knowledge in terms of logical principles, is fundamental to modern philosophy and psychological theory.

After completing a Jesuit educa-tion, Descartes traveled throughout Europe, frequently as a volunteer sol-dier. He shared theories and corre-sponded with many notable scientists of his era, some of whom were sus-pected of belonging to the Rosicru-cians, a secret society of scholars who challenged the Catholic Church’s op-position to new scientifi c ideas.

Aczel describes a strange se-crecy in Descartes’ life. To study in peace, he secluded himself from his friends, re-directed his correspon-dence through an intermediary and traveled incognito. After his death, academics found a chest of papers he had withheld from publishing and a secret notebook written in code.

Th e reader is invited to ponder. Was Descartes secretive to prevent academic plagiarism, to escape notice of the Inquisition, or to comply with membership in the Rosicrucians?

Silent auction specialsJohn Erb, who works for Health Canada in Invermere, takes a look at some of the

prizes available at this year’s silent auction being held at the Invermere Public Library. Th ere is a range of diff erent prizes, which have been generously donated by local business and customers. Th ere’s heaps to choose from, including rounds of golf, clothing, books, watches, pen and pencil sets, and even a butter-keeper. Bidders have until December 15th at noon to name their price.

It’s 40 Below atTh e Place/

Invermere Furniture

40% offall instock items

First come, First ServedDon’t be disappointed!

MANY ITEMS BELOW COST!

Now open late 6 nights a week!

Monday - Saturday 9 am - 9 pmSunday 11 am - 4 pm

516 - 13th St. 342-8338 / 342-8366

(excluding vacuums & vacuum accessories)


When the going gets

tough

Columbia Valley Trading Co.

Outdoor Clothing & GearInvermere, BC

342-3366

COLUMBIA VALLEYTRADING COMPANY

20% OFFSUGGESTED RETAILDue to circumstances beyond our control

EXCHANGE RATES between CANADA and the USA have changed

dramatically, prompting many of our potential

customers to shop in the USA. By off ering…

20% OFFwe hope you will shop

with us instead. Our suppliers have

off ered us absolutely NO SUPPORT and NO DISCOUNTS.

Th e cost of doing business has increased i.e. shipping, heating, accounting, insurance, electricity, wages and

taxes, etc., etc. We strive to bring great products at better prices to this community. We hope this incentive will help you support us in these

troubling times for Canadian retailers.

Th ank you for your patronage

Chris, Sandy & family.

20% OFF

• SALES • SERVICE • CHEMICALS • WATER MAINTENANCE VISITS

Check out our showroom in the former Place Furniture location.

Phone: 250-342-3922www.dynastyspas.com

ecosmartspas.com503B - 7th Avenue • Invermere

All spas are U.S. Made – Take advantage of the strong Canadian Dollar!

Get Smart Over the Holidays!

SHOP DAVE’S

7th Ave. Invermere342-6511

• Books • Cards • Of ce Supplies • Magazines • Lotto • Giftware


Students from David Th ompson Sec-ondary School’s Open Doors class stepped up to the mark last week, when they pitted their wits against various targets in an ar-chery session.

Norm Hendricks, president of the Lake Winderrmere District Rod and Gun Club, instructed the students and provided the equipment for the lesson.

“Th ey did well. I taught them the basics of safety and shooting, then they started off shooting a distance of 14 yards, but I had to put the target back to 17 yards as they were

pretty good at hitting the targets,” he said.Open Doors is an alternate route to

graduation for high school students, and coordinator Christine Shaw tries to vary the physical education class as much as possible.

“I try to keep it varied and do activities which students might go on to experience in later life. I try to do things they could do after school, such as curling, archery and bowling. It’s all about lifelong fi tness, and creating an interest in something they might be into as they get older,” she said.

Open Doors pupil Chuck Nicholas said he was having lots of fun. “It’s great. I’ve nev-er done it before and I think everyone’s really enjoying it,” he said.

His friend Cole Gillham added that he was having a great time. “I’ve done it before but I really enjoy it and I’d like to do it every day,” he said.

Th e Rod and Gun Club has been go-ing since 1918 and has 230 members, but they’re always looking for new members and youth can start from ages eight to 18. Chil-dren younger than eight can also join if they have a parent who is a gun club member.

Th e Rod and Gun Club meets from 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday at Invermere Com-munity Hall. In the summer they practise outdoors at Lake Lillian. Drop-ins are $2 and everyone is welcome. For information call 342-9033 or visit www.lwdrodgun.org.

Students from David Th ompson Secondary School’s Open Doors class tried their luck at archery last week, thanks to Norm Hendricks, president of the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club. Back row: Cole Gillham, John Waters, Alex Hochheiden, Justin Matthews, Chuck Nicholas, Colton Charette, Dylan Galbraith, Keifer Mickelson and Lucos Speta. Front: Norm Hendricks, Eli Puskoric, Elizabeth Nicholas, Open Doors coordinator Christine Shaw, Olivia Franklin and Caylie Johnson.

Open Doors students try archery


Budding gymnasts in the val-ley are hoping for a new coach to teach them at their new centre in Radium, to open in January.

Th e 12-year-old Columbia Valley Gymnastics Association is all set to move to bigger and better premises at the old school in Radi-um after outgrowing their present location in Althamer.

But the one important thing they’re missing is a coach. Out-going coach Shandrea O’Brien is leaving to open a fl orist’s shop at the former premises of Syndicate Board Shop.

So level one coach Michelle Hill is teaching all the classes from Monday to Friday on her own.

Th e Columbia Valley Gymnas-tics Association runs fi ve diff erent classes each week: parent and tot for 12-month-olds to 36-month-olds; Tumbling Tots for three to fi ve-year-olds; Kindergym for fi ve to six-year-olds; Recgym for six to 16-year-olds; and advanced Rec, also for six to 16-year-olds.

“We have been so fortunate over the years as we’ve had a lot of awesome coaches,” said club presi-dent Cheryl Maybuck

“At the moment, the coaches spend a lot of time moving mats around to create enough space for the kids. But the new premises will be much better as it has 2,400

square foot of fl oor space and much higher ceilings.

“Now we have the bigger venue we’d like to be able to train the gymnasts for competitions but this will be diffi cult without a new coach,” Cheryl said.

Th e Columbia Valley Gymnas-tics Association has 110 gymnasts and eight board members.

Cheryl claims the club has one of the largest numbers of gymnasts

in a gym association per capita in B.C. She added there are currently 45 children on a waiting list when the next session starts in Radium.

Michelle is a level one coach who is only available until March, as she will be returning to her full-time real estate position.

So any level two gym coaches, or coaches in training, who may be able to help should contact the club at 342-3023.


MAIN STREET INVERMERE (250) 342-6151

Best selection of Canadian Fine Craft in the Region.Open until 8:00 p.m. every Friday before Christmas.

Come to Village Arts on Saturday December 15th

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.For a Custom Jewellery Design Event by Sandra of Blissbeads

www.villagearts.caEnter to WIN a pair of

Blissbeads Earrings!

www.eagleranchresort.com

Fish ‘N Chips Friday $1195

Panko Crusted Basa with Lemon Aioli & Frites

Sunday Breakfast Buff et $1195

Available 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Th e Clubhouse is open for the holidays. Christmas party today!

Hours of OperationMonday - Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Location: Th e Clubhouse at Eagle Ranch, 9581 Eagle Ranch Trail(From Hwy 93/95, turn at traffi c lights. Entrance is on the right. From Invermere, turn left on Eagle Ranch Trail, off Athalmer Road)

*Clubhouse closed at 5:00 pm on Friday, December 14th for scheduled function

An Elegant Holiday Experience!

Call Toll-free: 1-877-877-3889 • Local: 342-0562 • Sundays or after 6:00 p.m. 342-6560 • www.eagleranchresort.com

Casa Blanca RestaurantWednesday Pizza Night: 2-4-1 pizza* Thursday Oriental Night Thai & more! Friday All You Can Eat Pasta* Saturday All You Can Eat Pasta*

Sportsman’s Lounge Tuesday 15 cent Wing Night Live entertainment on occasion Wednesday Free Pool Thursday Jam Night Free tacos between 9-10pm* Friday Fish & Chips Saturday Hockey Night in Canada and /or live entertainment Pizza Night

For more information Call 345.6346

**Some restrictions apply

www.fairmonthotsprings.com


Search on for new gym coach

Left to right, back: Carli Maybuck, 9; Clarissa Hollowink, 9; and coach Mi-chelle Hill. Left to right, front: Tori Maybuck, 8, and Rachel Kanan, 8.


GOLDEN’S MÉTIS YOUTH CULTURAL AWARENESS INITIATIVE

invites Aboriginal Youth Ages 15-24 to participate in a 2 day Drum Making Workshop Dec 15-16

Th e drumbeat symbolizes the heartbeat of Mother Earth. It plays a very important role in bringing people together.

Immerse yourself in a unique Aboriginal art and cultural experience by learning to make and play a traditional hand drum.

Date: (2 day workshop) December 15th - December 16th Time: Saturday Dec 15th 10:00-4:00 Sunday Dec 16th 9:00-3:00

Location: Town of Golden Meeting Room (downstairs in Town offi ce)

Cost: FREE. Registration is required.

For more information or to register call Kathleen (250) 344-8924.

Th is opportunity is made possible through the generosity of Dept. of Canadian Heritage and Métis Nation British Columbia.

It’s a girl!Alexandra Gail Mitchell

Born November 3rd, 2007 at East Kootenay Regional Hospital to proud parents Todd and Brenda Mitchell of Invermere.

Mountain Flowers Dining Room & Bear’s Paw LoungeThursday Villa night with 1/2 price appy’s Kids under nine eat for free* Friday Seafood Extravaganza Lobster, Crab, Mussels & much more! Saturday Prime Rib Night Sunday Brunch and $2 swim Ribs Night

Tuscano’s Market Tuscano’s Market now features a Wine and Tapas Bar every Friday and Saturday evening. Enjoy a traditional Spanish appetizer and taste test a variety of wines.

For more information Call 345.6015

**Some restrictions applywww.fairmonthotsprings.com


Santa on paradeTop, the Cranbrook Girls’ Bugle Band march in

this year’s Santa Claus Parade on Super Sunday in Invermere. Above, J. A. Laird students Natalie Gibbs, 10; Christina Schmitz, 10; Aaliyah Bone, 12; and Kate Gibbs, 12; watched the Cranbrook Girls Bugle Band during the Santa Claus parade on Super Sun-day. Meanwhile, Santa Claus met some of the chil-dren he’ll be delivering presents to in a couple of weeks. On the left, Torben Marsden introduces Santa to his children Adam, 5; and Annah, 8; who were very excited about Christmas. Adam said he was hoping Santa would bring him a toy train. Th ose who braved the snow enjoyed the parade before hitting the shops to snap up some bargains, as most stores had discounted items. It was a great chance to make a head start on Christmas shopping in plenty of time before the big day on December 25th.


A message from BC teachers bctf.ca

It says a lot about a government’s priorities when it pours an extra $400 million into convention centre overruns – but continues to shortchange our kids. That’s exactly what Gordon Campbell’s government is doing.

Consider what’s happening in BC schools:• there are thousands of BC middle and secondary school classes with over 30 students • there are thousands of classes with four or more students with special needs• there is a serious shortage of teacher-librarians and specialist teachers• the BC government is clawing back up to $50 million from BC’s schools

All students lose when classes are too large and there isn’t enough support for students with special needs.

Witha$4billionsurplus,why isGordonCampbell’sgovernment

shortchangingourkids?

www.daziran.ca342-8830

Your source for Naturopathic Medicine in the Columbia Valley is pleased to announce the arrival of:

Dr. Clare Craig, NDNaturopathic Physician

Dr. Craig will be handling patient care during Dr. Geis’ maternity leave until June 2008

Located in Th e Radermacher Chiropractic and Integrative Health Clinic at 107, 901-7th Avenue.

For more information or to book and

appointment with Dr. Clare Craig please call 342-8830 or visit our website at www.daziran.ca

I look forward to meeting you!!

Nordic Pole Walking Clinics and Running Clinics starting in January

• New Facility• All levels welcome• Vancouver half and full-marathon clinic

starts in January• Christmas gift baskets and certifi cates

available• Get fi t in a positive fun atmosphere• Certifi ed coach

Call Michelle Taylor at Columbia Valley Life Sports

342-8737 • [email protected]

VisionTo encourage & teach participants how to improve their quality of life through walking, running and other life sports.


Th e snow fell just in time to create a magical atmosphere for last weekend’s Super Sunday.

Th is annual event featured the Santa Claus pa-rade, with a special appearance from the man in red, who waved to onlookers as his Old Red fi re truck headed down Seventh Avenue.

Th e star attraction was the Cranbrook Girls Bu-gle Band, who had the crowd mesmerized with their baton twirling, drumming and cymbal smashing.

Th e Bighorns were also out in force, and joined the parade in a horse-drawn truck to wave to the

crowds. Unfortunately, Th e Pioneer truck had to pull out due to mechanical failure.

People of all ages were out in force to soak up the Christmas atmosphere and grab a few bargains during the shopping extravaganza. It was a great chance to make a head start on Christmas shopping, as most stores were off ering discounted items.

Paul Christy, chairman of Invermere Business Committee and owner of Monkey’s Uncle toy store, said it really was a super day.

“Th ere were lots of people out, although there

were fewer out than last year, which may have been weather-related. Th e snow came through just in time, so luckily I have some good connections to make it happen once again after Light Up,” he joked. “We had a lot of happy shoppers in the store, defi nitely a lot more than a normal Sunday.

Shelley Streicek, owner of Hippy Chic, said business was also busy down at Parkside Place.

“Th ere was a great atmosphere in town. Shop-pers really enjoyed the parade and seemed to be hav-ing lots of fun,” she said.

Super Sunday kicks off the shopping season

THE PIONEERWORKS HARDER!

FOR ALL YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS, CALL 341-6299


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a new GMvehicle

MinimumAward$1000

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CHECK US OUT AT www.chaletgm.com

KIMBERLEY 427-4895 • CRANBROOK 489-2525OUT OF TOWN 1-800-388-1156

HOURS OF OPERATION: 8 am - 6 pm Monday - Friday • 8:30 am - 5 pm Saturday

New safetyrecord set

Canfor-Radium Di-vision Sawmill celebrated One Year Lost Time Ac-cident Free on November 17th, 2007, which is a Division fi rst. For a lum-ber manufacturer, this is a major milestone to achieve. Canfor-Radium has de-veloped an eff ective safety program in eff ort to ensure all employees return home to their families safely, each and every day. We’re proud of our achievement, and our employees!

Pictured here are the Radium S.T.A.R.S Safety Committee members, and Management.

Photo submitted

C O L U M B I A V A L L E Y P I O N E E R

w w w . c o l u m b i a v a l l e y p i o n e e r . c o m

W E A R E N O W A C C E P T I N G …

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS

• Call our Of ce Manager, Michele at 341-6299 with your Visa or Mastercard number.

• Pay in person at our of ce with credit or debit card at 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere.

• If you have a Paypal Account, you may pay online. Check our website for details at…


Mountain Creek Properties Ltd.Strata, Rental & Commercial Property Management

For professional management of your strata corporation or rental property, overseen by a Certi ed Property Manager®, please contact Bill Weissig CPM®, CPRPM, CLO, SMA, CRES.

Our property managers are licensed under the Real Estate Services Act of B.C. For more information regarding their extensive quali cations and experience, please visit our web site at http://www.mountaincreek.ca.

Phone: 250-341-6003 Email: [email protected]

Your Local COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

Professionals

Ron MaciborskiSALES REPRESENTATIVE

RockiesWest Realty Ltd.INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

230 Laurier StreetInvermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

(250) 342-5704 (Cell)(250) 342-5599 (Offi ce)(250) 342-5559 (Fax)e-mail: [email protected]

Ed English(250) 342-1194

[email protected]

Jan Klimek(250) 342-1195

[email protected]

INVERMEREIndependently Owned and Operated

Main Street, Invermere

(250) 342-6505www.ReMaxInvermere.com

www.edandjanslistings.com

PAUL ROGGEMAN341-5300

Invermere Offi ce – 526B – 13th StreetFairmont Offi ce – #4, Fairmont Village Mall

Phone (250) 345-4000Fax (250) 345-4001

[email protected]

Dedicated to all your real estate needs.

Cell: (250) 342-1612Offi ce: (250) 341-6044

Fax: (250) 341-6046

Daniel ZurgilgenMaxWell Realty Invermere

926-7th Avenue, Inveremere, BC

www.maxwelldaniel.com

Daniel Zurgilgen

www.maxwelldaniel.com

Bernie RavenRepresentative

(250) [email protected]

It’s the Experience!Of ce: (250) 342-6505 Fax: (250) 342-9611

INVERMERE1022B-7th Ave.Independently Owned and Operated

INVERMERE1022B-7th Ave.

Independently Owned and Operated

Of ce: (250) 342-6505Fax: (250) 342-9611

Paul GlassfordRepresentative

(250) [email protected]

By Brian GeisPioneer Staff

Two out of three respondents to a recent survey of Invermere residents said they get a fairly good to very good value for their tax dollars.

District of Invermere Council and staff are cel-ebrating the results of the survey, which were mostly positive, and using the results to direct its fi nan-cial plan.

“Th e report card, in my opinion, is looking pretty good,” Invermere Director of Finance Kar-en Coté commented after presenting the results to council. “I think we’re all pretty happy. I know I am.”

Although only 95 of the 1,800 questionnaires dis-tributed were returned, a response rate of only 5.2 per-cent, Invermere Mayor Mark Shmigelsky said that no response is being interpreted as a positive response.

“I was very pleased and surprised. Usually, a sur-vey allows the discontented to come forward in a strong way,” he said. “I think it’s important to note that 1,800 surveys went out and 100 came back. If

you don’t get your survey fi lled out and returned, basi-cally, we think you’re happy.”

Overall, 59 percent of the respondents said they were satisfi ed with the quality of service they get. Municipal services like fi re suppression (78 percent), water supply (73 percent), sewer treatment and col-lection (70 percent), snow and ice removal from roads (84 percent), garbage collection (93 percent) and road

sweeping (86 percent) re-ceived high marks on sat-isfaction. However, only 34 percent said they were satisfi ed with enforce-ment of bylaws and only 34 percent said they were satisfi ed with building inspection.

Th e perennial issue of road maintenance got split marks with 52 percent reporting satisfaction and 46 percent not very or not at all satisfi ed.

While most municipal facilities got high marks of satisfaction—Community Hall (71 percent), Kins-men Beach (79 percent), the library (77 percent), Pynelogs (82 percent), Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena (68 percent)—only 39 percent of respondents said they were satisfi ed with the district’s pathways

(42 percent not satisfi ed). Th e Athalmer playground (32 percent), the Mount View Cemetery (35 per-cent), the Windermere Cemetery (22 percent) and the Invermere tennis courts (34 percent) all received low marks of satisfaction.

Given an imaginary pie of $100 of tax funds to allocate toward a new community facility, respondents gave the smallest slice ($18) to an Arts/Cultural Cen-tre, which came in at a few dollars behind the category “Other,” (i.e., a youth centre or multi-purpose rooms for community groups).

Respondents said they would spend the biggest slice of the pie ($35) on a recreation centre, including a fi tness centre and leisure pool, followed by a library ($26).

Taking into account the public’s comments, Di-rector Coté reported, the district’s 2008-2012 fi nan-cial plan has been amended to include the following:

• Kinsmen Beach revitalization plan• Resurfacing of the Invermere tennis courts• More parking stalls downtown• Final engineering and landscaping plan for Pot-

hole Park• Th e creation of a bike trail mapTh e fi nancial plan received its second and third

reading and is awaiting fi nal approval.

Respondents rate recreationcentre more important than

performing arts centre

Invermere taking direction from survey


Loretto Keenan MCPA, CBTBC

chartered physiotherapist

Fairmont Sports Physiotherapy & Acupuncture Clinic

For appointments callLoretto at 345-0094

5020 Mountain View PlaceFairmont, BC

by Leanne

• Manicures • Pedicures • Gel Nails

By Appointment Only14A Wolfe Cr., RR#2 Invermere, B.C.

Located behind Tim Hortons • Ph: 341-3314

• Manicures • Pedicures • Gel Nails

HERE TO SERVE YOU

w i n d o w f a s h i o n s

Interior WorldNeed Blinds?

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406

Specializing in ‘One of a Kind’ ART YOU WEARLocated in INVERMERE, BC

Across from the AIRPORT, next to Tex’s Coffee & BAVIN GLASS

for store hours Phone: (250) 342-5043 or 342-5347

www.deannagauthier.com

Specializing in ‘One of a Kind’ ART YOU WEAR

www.deannagauthier.com

Call NOW688-0123

1st Anniversary Specials• 3 rooms (500 sq. ft.) Reg. $145.00 Now $120.00

• Couch Reg. $89.00 Now $60.00

• Love Seat Reg. $69.00 Now $50.00

• Comfy Chair Reg. $49.00 Now $30.00

December & JanuarySee more online atwww.heavenbest.ca

+ GST

TOWINGCLUBSewer/Drain Cleaning

Septic Tank PumpingPortable Toilet Rentals

• Complete sewer/drain repair• Reasonable rates - Seniors’ discount

• Speedy service - 7 days a week• A well-maintained septic system should be pumped every 3-5 years

• Avoid costly repairs

Bruce Dehart 347-9803 or 342-5357

NEW

Excellent Security MeasureMakes it look like you’rehome when you’re not!

Kirk & Karen DavisInvermere BC

THE CENTER OF REAL ESTATE ACTION IN THE PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

INSURANCE AGENCIES LTD.

BOX 2228742 - 13th STREETINVERMERE, BC.V0A 1K0PHONE: 342-3031FAX: 342-6945

BOX 4597559 MAIN STREET

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BCV0A 1M0

PHONE: 347-9350FAX: 347-6350

Email: [email protected] • Toll Free: 1-866-342-3031

LambertYour search for quality and dependability ends with us.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning SpecialistsTruck Mounted System • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Dean HubmanCertifi ed Technician

342-3052

RR3, 4874 Ridge Cres.Invermere, BC

V0A 1K3

Valley Wide

Pine Ridge CuttersLawn and Yard Maintenance

Sunrise To Sunset Service

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a reliable contact person for your BC home?

• Home and property inspections• Irrigation system start-up and blow-out,

head replacement and timing• Snow plowing driveway and walkways• Mowing, pruning, planting, weeding and mulching• Hauling.

(250) 341-1012

Automotive Repairs7 days a week

GAS • PROPANE • DIESEL

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs(250) 347-9726

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS ESSO

Freight & Passenger Depot

SCRUBSExecutive Housekeeping Service

Professional Service Now Taking New Clients

Call today for your FREE Cleaning ConsultationReferences Available

Elin (250) 342-0050 or John (250) 342-5832email: [email protected]


HERE TO SERVE YOU

Complete Automotive Repairs

Phone: 342-6614 • www.autowyze.com

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

Structural Integration Deep Tissue BodyworkMovement Education – Dialogue

H E L L E R W O RKJean-Luc Cortat

Certifi ed Hellerwork Practioner

Renaissance Wellness CentreBox 185 / 505 – 7th Avenue,

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 342-2535

Structural Integration Deep Tissue BodyworkMovement Education – Dialogue

H E L L E R W O RKJean-Luc Cortat

Certifi ed Hellerwork Practioner

Renaissance Wellness CentreBox 185 / 505 – 7th Avenue,

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 342-2535

Great Selection of:

•Wood Blinds•Sunscreens •Woven Woods•Pleated

Shades•Roller Shadesand more!

#1 Kootenay BlockMain St., Radium BC

347-7734For all your interiordecorating needs.

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BCPO Box 117, Windermere, BC V0B 2L0email: [email protected]

• POOLS

• HOT TUBS

• CHEMICALS

• FIREPLACES

• BBQ S

• HEATING

• VENTILATION

• AIR CONDITIONING

• RESIDENTIAL

• COMMERCIAL

Phone: (250) 342-7100Fax: (250) 342-7103

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

Invermere Dry Cleaners Ltd.

Dry Cleaning • Laundry • AlterationsRepair • Bachelor Service

Phone: 342-6610 • 507A - 7th Ave., Invermere

30 minute circuit training for women only.

Now Open 24/7

Women’sPACEVerna Jones • pacegal@ telus.net • Tel: 342-6010

What are you weighting for?

where it’s cool to be a loser!The only place

Bob Mashford, PresidentPhone: (250) 341-7188 or (403) 923-2427

Fax: (403) 720-5789

[email protected]

LAMBERT-KIPPPHARMACY LTD.

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

Your Compounding PharmacyCome in and browse our giftware

Open Monday - Saturday9:00 am - 6:00 pm

1301 - 7th Avenue, Invermere

342-6612

HEAT PUMPS, DUCT WORK & FURNACES

Sales and Service

Call today 342.1167

COLUMBIA VALLEYTAXI

Serving Golden to Cranbrook, Banff and Lake Louise

Hours: Sunday, 12 noon – 10 p.m.

Monday – Wednesday, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.Thursday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 a.m.

Saturday, 8 a.m. – 4 a.m.

250-342-5262

WINDERMERE 342-6805

SHOLINDER & MACKAYEXCAVATING Inc.

Septic Systems Installed ~ Pumped ~ RepairedPrefab Cement Tanks Installed

Water Lines Dug InstalledBasements Dug

READY MIX CONCRETEConcrete Pump • Sand & Gravel

Heavy Equipment Rentals • Crane ServiceProudly Serving the Valley for over 50 years

For competitive prices and prompt service call:342-3268 (plant) 342-6767 (offi ce)


HERE TO SERVE YOU

COMMERCIALSNOWPLOWINGAND SANDING

Contact: Silver Creek

Properties Inc. Phone: 688-4848

Bus: (250) 342-6336Fax: (250) 342-3578Email: [email protected]: www.is-r.ca403 - 7th AvenueInvermere, BC

INVERMERE GLASS LTD.•Auto • Home

• Commercial • Mirrors • Shower Doors

• 27 years glass experience

Telephone: 342-3659Serving the Valley for over 11 years • #3, 109 Industrial Road #2, Invermere

Jeff Watson

• Topsoil • Sand • GravelVJ (Butch) BishopOwner/Operator4846 Holland Creek Ridge Rd.Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

INVERMEREPhone: (250) 342-9866Fax: (250) 342-9869www.avionconstruction.com

HEAD OFFICEPhone: (403) 287-0144

Fax: (403) 287-2193#200, 6125 - 11 Street S.E.

Calgary, AB T2H 2L6

AvionConstruction Ltd.

CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS - GENERAL CONTRACTORSDESIGN/BUILD CUSTOM HOMES • MULTI-FAMILY & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

Hi - Heat

Specializing in Custom Drapery, Blinds, Shutters & FlooringResidential & Commercial Interiors

Brenda E. Werbisky, C.I.D., Interior Designer

For appointment call (403) 861-8782 [email protected]

Specializing in Custom Drapery, Blinds, Shutters & FlooringResidential & Commercial Interiors

Brenda E. Werbisky, C.I.D., Interior Designer

For appointment call (403) 861-8782 [email protected]

Vivid ContractingInvermere, BC

Construction Clean-up • General Labour

Kim Baker

• Cell: 688-8355 • Work 342-0637 • Email [email protected]

Whoppingdonation!Barry Brown-John,

chair of the provincial Real Estate Foundation, pres-ents a cheque for $78,600 to Nancy Newhouse, left, program manager of the East Kootenay Conserva-tion Program; and Emi Cronin of the Nature Con-servancy of Canada. Th e funding will support the porogram’s work over the next two years and assist with the Nature Conser-vancy of Canada’s project to characterize stakeholder groups on conservation properties.


TID BITS:• Holiday Schedule for GARBAGE COLLECTION Please be advised that regularly scheduled garbage collection, within the District of Invermere, for Tuesday, December 25th, 2007 has

been rescheduled to Thursday, December 27th, 2007 and garbage collection for Tuesday, January 1st, 2008 has been rescheduled to Thursday, January 3rd, 2008.

• Cancellation of December 25th, 2007 Regular Meeting of Council The regularly scheduled Meeting of Council for Tuesday, December 25th, 2007 has been cancelled.

• Holiday Schedule for Municipal Offi ce The Municipal Offi ce will be closed for the Holidays from Monday, December 24th to Friday, December 28th, 2007 and Tuesday, January

1st, 2008. The offi ce will be open on Monday, December 31st, 2007

• 2008 Regular Meeting of Council Schedule The District of Invermere Council meets regularly throughout the year on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the

Council Chambers of the Municipal Offi ce (914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere). January 8th & 23rd February 12th & 26th March 11th & 25th April 8th & 22nd May 13th & 27th June 10th & 24th July 8th & 22nd August 12th & 26th September 9th & 23rd October 14th & 28th November 12th & 25th December 9th & 23rd

November Council Meeting Highlights:Housing Authority:The creation of the “Invermere Housing Corporation” is one step closer. The Corporate Papers have been forwarded to the Inspector of Munici-palities for approval. Once approved the District can then appoint an interim Board of Directors to assist in the creation and establishment of the company.

Development Cost Charge Bylaw (DCC)The District has submitted the Development Cost Charge Bylaw to the Inspector of Municipalities for approval. In response to the increased level of development, its impacts to infrastructure and the incremental increases in construction costs, the bylaw has been amended to include the costs associated with the borrowing and increased construction cost of the water transmission and reservoir project. This Bylaw is consis-tent with Council’s position that the development industry pay for the improvements required to accommodate future growth

Housing Needs AssessmentThe Housing Needs Assessment was received in Draft form at the November 27th, 2007 Council Meeting. Council will formally adopted it at the December 11th, 2007 Council Meeting.

BOARD OF DIRECTORSInvermere Public Library

Are you an avid reader? Are you excited about the library’s expansion? Would you like to be a part of your library’s future?

“The Invermere Public Library is searching for an enthusiastic individual resident to fi ll a volunteer Trustee position. The Position will be for a length of 2 years.”

To be considered for a position, the applicant must be a resident or elector of the District of Invermere and cannot be an employee of the District of Invermere or Library Board. Those holding positions at the time of advertisement are welcome to reapply for an additional term.

Interested persons are requested to submit letters of application and brief resumes including reasons for interest and related experience to:

Mayor and Council, District Of InvermereP.O. Box 339, 914 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, B.C., V0A1K0or to [email protected]

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. Friday, December 7th, 2007

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALSCurbside Recycling Implementation

The District of Invermere invites written proposals from qualifi ed fi rms for the implementation of a curbside recycling program for approxi-mately 1400 solid waste clients within the District of Invermere. This implementation involves development and delivery of a curbside recy-cling public education program with client service and response in the initial implementation phase of the program.

It is expected that this implementation will begin with communication development in December of 2007. Curbside recycling pick up will begin April 1, 2008.

Contractors are invited to submit a short proposal outlining:

• Their general approach to implementation of a curbside recycling program for the District of Invermere;• An approximate schedule of deliverables within the program including anticipated hours and relative costs associated with each;• Provide a summary of your fi rm’s qualifi cations to perform the services requested; ensure to advise the number of years your company or

sole proprietorship has been in business;• Provide details as to the amount of general liability and professional liability insurance your fi rm carries;• Provide the names of three references, including their telephone numbers;• Detail the relevant experience of the individual(s) who would be performing the services requested;• A contract price not exceeding $15,000 that will be fl exible to allow for Change Orders to eff ect increases or decreases in level of service

provided to fi t the program within budget and perceived focus.

In addition to the information being requested in this Request for Proposals contractors can provide the District of Invermere with any other information considered relevant and that the District of Invermere should be aware of before making its decision on the contractor.

The District of Invermere, as the result of this Request for Proposals, has no obligation to award a contract and are not bound to select the low-est priced proposal and reserve the right to reject any and all proposals. In no event will the District of Invermere be responsible for the costs of preparation or submission of any proposal.

Questions on this Request for Proposal may be directed to Chris Prosser, Chief Administrative Offi cer, District of Invermere, phone 250-342-9281. Proposals should be delivered to 914 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0. Deadline for submission is 4:00 pm MST, December 7, 2007

SNOW REMOVALDistrict of Invermere bylaw number 306 “Regulation of traffi c within the Village of Invermere” which states in Article VII 9:

“It shall be unlawful for any person to permit any accumulation of snow or ice to remain upon any cement sidewalk in front or abutting any premises owned or occupied by him after noon in any day except Sunday in the village as described by by-law from time to time in that behalf passed by the Council of the Village”.

Here’s how you can help...• Be a good neighbour. Clear snow and ice from sidewalks as soon as possible after a snowfall to ensure that they are safe for all

residents. Lend a hand to those who may not be physically able to shovel.• Do not park on the street during a snowstorm of while snow clearing operations are underway. Parked cars make plowing diffi cult,

and sometimes impossible. With your help, winter maintenance crews can plow snow faster and more effi ciently and you will reduce the chances of having to dig your car out of a snow drift.

• Please make sure that your car is parked within your driveway. Please do not let it extend onto the street or sidewalk.• Keep children safe - don’t let them play in snow piles, or build snow forts in the snow banks at the side of the road.• Snow plows have no place to push the snow except to the curb or shoulder of the road. Sometimes this happens just after you have

fi nished shovelling. We appreciate this can be frustrating; however we ask your cooperation in clearing this snow without placing it on the roadway. If you hire a private contractor to clear your driveway, make sure the contractor does not push snow into the travelled portion of the roadway, or fi ll in sidewalks.

• Pile snow on the right side of your driveway (when facing the road) if possible when shovelling. This helps reduce the amount of snow created by the snowplow at the end of your driveway.

• Remove snow from around fi re hydrants on or near your property to enable quick access by emergency personnel if the need arises.• Do not place your garbage cans on top of snow banks. If possible place them on your driveway near the edge of the road.

The District thanks you for your co-operation!

NOTICE OF OFFICE CLOSURE The Municipal Offi ce will be closed for the Holidays from Monday, December 24th to Friday, December 28th, 2007 and Tuesday, January 1st, 2008. The offi ce will be open on Monday, December 31st, 2007

Public InformationPublic Information914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Ph: 250-342-9281 • Fax: 250-342-2934 • E-mail: [email protected]

they work �PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

Call: 341-6299


Invermere:A Touch of Dutch Flower & Gift ShopAngus McToogle’sA&W RestaurantAG FoodsAnglz Hair SalonAutowyze ServicesBavin GlassworksBack Door Wine CellarBliss Hair & EstheticsBlue Dog CaféBruce McLaughlin FinancialChisel Peak Medical CentreCollege of the RockiesColumbia Garden VillageColumbia Valley Employment CentreColumbia Valley Trading CompanyColumbia Valley Visitor CentreDairy QueenDave’s Book BarDetails by JoAnneDTSSEast Kootenay RealtyEddie Mountain Memorial ArenaEssentials Department StoreFitz’s FlooringGerry’s GelatiGone HollywoodGrant’s FoodsGreat Canadian Dollar StoreGreyhound Bus Depot

O’Sullivan Dental ClinicHarrison McKay CommunicationsHigh Country PropertiesHome HardwareHubbard & Blakley Law Offi ceHuckleberry’s RestaurantInside Edge SportsInterior WorldInvermere and District HospitalInvermere BarberInvermere Dry CleanersInvermere Family ChiropracticInvermere Inn (every room)Invermere Medical ClinicInvermere PhysiotherapistsInvermere Public LibraryKonig MeatsLake Auto ServicesLakeside PubLambert-Kipp PharmacyMajestic U-BrewMaria Dibb Medical ClinicMark Moneo, OptometristMeridian MortgageMonkey’s UncleMountain View LodgeMaxwell RealtyMustard SeedOasis GiftsPamper Yourself SpaPenner’s ShoesPharmasavePieces From the PastQuality BakeryRay Ferguson Realty

RCMPRe/MaxRob’s Bicycle WorksRocky Mountain RealtyRoyal LepageSelkirk TV - Th e SourceSobeysStation PubSubwaySunsations SpaSuper 8 MotelSuperior PropaneSyndicate Board ShopTex’s Coff ee WorksTh e Back Door Wine CellarTh e Book CellarTh e Place Furniture StoreTiff any’s Th redzTim Horton’sToby Th eatreTwo-For-One PizzaValley Hair StylingWarwick Interiors

Windermere:Columbia Lake BandCopper Point Golf CourseSkookum InnValley Alley Bowling CentreWhite House PubWindermere Family PantryWindermere Market FoodsWindermere Valley Golf

Fairmont Hot Springs:Canyon MeadowsBigway FoodsFairmont Hot Springs ResortFairmont LodgeFairmont Recreation CentreFarside PubJeff ers EssoMountainside Rec CentreRace Trac GasRiverside GolfRiverside Recreation CentreRocky Mountain RealtySmoking Waters Coff ee

Canal Flats:Canal Flats Family PantryDot’s DinerGas PlusLiquor StoreHome HardwareSunfl ower Café

Radium Hot Springs:Fire ValleyBack Country JacksBighorn MeadowsCanyon CampgroundHorsethief Creek Pub & EateryLambert InsuranceMeet on Higher Ground Coff eeMountainside MarketPrestige InnRadium Hot Springs PoolRadium HuskyRadium Liquor StoreRadium Petro CanadaRadium Hot Springs EssoRed Valley ResortPark MotelWild Rose 2-4-1 Pizza

North of Radium:Brisco General StoreEdgewater Post Offi cePip’s Country StoreSpillimacheen Post Offi ce

KimberleyBlack Bear Books & Video (Platzl)Kimberley Visitor CentreMary’s Kitchen Restaurant

Cranbrook:Pages EmporiumLotus Books

OUR VALLEY LOCATIONS

8000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLYVERIFIED BY THE SUN MEDIA


OUR CALGARY LOCATIONS

2000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED IN CALGARYVERIFIED BY SUN MEDIA

Alexander Centre 922 - 9th Ave. S.E.

Alberta Th eatre Projects 2nd Flr, 220-9th Ave S.E.

Artspace 2nd Flr, 1235 - 26th Ave S.E.

Big 4 Casino Stampede Park Blue River Bistro227-11th Ave S.W.

Bow Valley College 1st Flr, 332- 6th Ave S.E.

By Th e Cup 2nd Flr, 736 - 8th Ave S.W.

Café 411#102, 1015 - 4th St. S.W.

Calgary International Hostel 520-7th Ave S.E.

Calgary Multi-Cultural Centre835- 8th Ave S.W. Campers Village 7208 MacLeod Trail South

Cappuccino Company 924A - 7th Ave S.W. Casablanca Video2100 - 4th St. S.W.

Casablanca Video 2101 - 33rd Ave S.W. Cedars Deli/Café 3103 Edmonton Trail N.E.

City Hall 800 MacLeod Trail S.E. Coco Brooks 2020 - 32nd Ave N.E. Danish Canadian Club 727 - 11th Ave S.W. Decidedly Jazz 1512 - 4th St. S.W. Devonian Gardens/TD Square 4th Floor - TD Square

Divine DecadenceLower level, 720 -17th Ave S.W. Dome Sports Pub 5703 - 3rd St. S.W.

Eau Claire Market Info200 Barclay Parade S.W.

Eighth and Eighth Café #102, 855 - 8th Ave S.W. Encana Place Main Flr, 150 - 9th Ave S.W.

Extreme Bean 3303 - 3rd Ave N.W. Fairs Fair #4, 7400 MacLeod Trail S.E. Fairs Fair1430, 1609 - 14th St. S.W. Family Foods817 - 19th St. N.E. Fitness on 5th YWCA320 - 5th Ave S.E.

Fortune Car Wash 4715 MacLeod Trail S.W. Francesco’s Italian Food /Deli 3413 - 26th Ave S.W. Gallery Café608 -7th St. S.W.

Green Bean Catering601 - 1st St. S.W. Greyhound Courier833 Greyhound Way S.W. Hard Disk Café117, 638 -11th Ave S.W.

Harry Hays Building220- 4th Ave S.E.

Holy Cross Campus2204-2nd St. S.W. Lambada Investment1423 Centre St. N.W. London House5th Flr, 505 - 4th Ave S.W. Long & MacWade105 - 58th Ave S.W. Mediterranean Grill#108, 6008 MacLeod Trail S.W.

Th e Mongolie Grill1108-4th St. S.W.

My Sub#100, 744-4th Ave S.W.

Nellies in the Loop2015 - 33rd Ave S.W.

Oh Canada 815 - 7th Ave S.W.

Pharaoh’s 172008-33rd Ave S.W. Rainbow Pride1230A - 17th Ave S.W. Skaters Sport Shop #40, 6130 - 1A St. S.W. Th e Grind 908-8th Ave S.W.

Th e Other Place 840-6th Ave S.W.

Video World Lwr Level, 1010-6th Ave S.W.

VRRI Recreation Centre 3304-33rd St. N.W.

Wayne’s Bagels 2nd Flr, 777- 8th Ave S.W.

Wrapture 1208-17th Ave S.W.

You & I Coff ee 2nd Flr, 400-4th Ave S.W.

You & I Coff ee Mn Flr, 700-4th Ave S.W.

Calgary Sun Lobby 2615- 12th Street N.E.

Wrapture1208-17th Ave. S.W.

Big Rock Brewery5555 - 76 Ave. S.E.

Haworth10 Smed Lane S.E.

Café O Lei3608 - 17 Ave. S.E.

Craving BagelsFoothills Hospital, North Tower

Planet 10183 Bowridge Drive N.W.

Acadia Rec Centre240 - 90 Ave. S. E.

Planet Organic100 - 10233 Elbow Drive S.W.

Lake BonavistaCommunity Centre1401 Acadia Drive S.E.

Oakridge Foods2515 - 90 Ave. S.W.

Crossroads Market1235 - 26 Ave. S.E.

Cuppa Gogo1441 - 17 Ave. S.W.

Sunterra Markets1851 Scirocco Drive S.W.

Coco Brooks640 - 42 Ave. S.E.

Bridgeland Esso4 Edmonton Trail N.E.

HSBC Bank95 Crowfoot Crescent N.W.

Rona90 Crowfoot Way N.W.

Bow River Medical4411 - 16 Ave. N.W.

Buy Low Foods200 - 52 St. N.E.

Sazbimandi Foods5401 Temple Drive N.E.

Lucky’s Foods8 Ave. and 44 St. S.E.

First Calgary455 - 36 St. N.E.

Bank of Montreal2555 - 32 St. N.E.

Bank of Montreal5249 Richmond Road S.W.

Bank of Montreal235, 401-9 Ave. S.W.

Bank of Montreal225 Shawville Blvd. S.W.

Bank of MontrealSouthcentre Mall

First Calgary70 Shawville Blvd.SafewayShawville Blvd.

Co-opShawville Blvd.Treasury Branch303 Shawville Blvd.

Treasury Branch8 Ave. & 2 St. S.W.

Royal Lepage Benchmark430 - 7220 Fisher St. S.E.

Glenmore Prof. Bldg.1600 - 90 Ave. S.W.

# 1 Convenience1015 Oakfi eld Drive S.W.

# 1 Convenience924 Edmonton Trail N.E.

Safeway1818 Centre St. N.

Co-opRichmond Road S.W.

Bank of Montreal6100 MacLeod Trail

Tourism CalgaryCalgary Tower

CIBC Elveden Bldg.717 - 7 Ave.

International News205, 401 - 9 Ave. S.W.

Peter Pan13 Ave. & 2 St. N.W.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Have A Real Tree Christmas!

Doreen’s Avon Open House

Noon – 8:00 pmNov. 23 & 24

Dec. 7 & 84836 Stanley St. Radium

MEMORIAM

In Memory ofRob Daniel 1965-2004

Rob, its now 3 years since you left to journey on. Our lives are fi lled with sadness and tears remembering how you made our lives so full and happy. We know you’re near. Missing you always. Love your daughter Taya, Mom & Dad, brothers and sisters.

THANK YOU

To all my friends and family. Thank you for all your good wishes and many kindnesses shown to me during my recent illness. Thank you for the many cards, gorgeous fl owers and the wonderful baking. Your thoughtfulness has been overwhelming.

Phyl Luyendyk

GARAGE SALE

Indoor garage sale. Furniture, misc., X-BOX, NGC, PS2, PC games. Sat, Dec. 8th . Carriage Court #8, 10th Ave. Call Benita 342-7077, 270-0055.

NOTICE

To the lady whose dog was in a dog fi ght across from the Saan store on Nov. 28th . Please call 341-5996.

NOTICE

Vehicle to be sold by D. Clowers dba Club Towing. Location of sale: 455 – Borden Street, Athalmer, B.C. (Storage Compound). Date of sale: December 21st, 2007. Time of sale: 5:00 pm. Vehicle to be sold under the Warehouse Lien Act for Towing & Storage costs owed to D. Clowers dba Club Towing. Amount of Debt: $1,435.24. Vehicle is a 1990 Red Mazda Miata 2 door, Vin # JM1NA3527L0157706. B.C. Registration No. 4962262.

STORAGE

NEWHOUSEMULTI STORAGE

Various size available.Now with climatecontrolled units.

Call 342-3637

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE

Retail/Offi ce/Storage503 7th Ave. Only one spot left! 2000 sq. ft., $12.00/sq. ft. triple net. Call 342-0603 or 341-5845.

WANTED

Wanted: Used Ping Pong Table, call 342-3129.

2 roommates wanted for quiet Invermere location from Dec 1st to April 30th . N/S, N/P, close to all amenities, $550.00/month. Call 688-8294.

SHARED ACCOMMADATION

Bdrm for rent in new 3 bdrm house. Shared laundry. Hydro, cable, wireless internet included. $500/month, 341-1552.

SUITE FOR RENT

CONTRACTORS: Self contained cabins by the week or month. (250) 345-6365 Fairmont Bungalows.

SUITE FOR RENT

Monthly or weekly units available with or without kitchens for working couples or individuals Call Motel Bavaria in Radium, 347-9915.

Trailers for rent in Canal Flats. 2 bdrm available Dec. 15th , $500/month. 3 bdrm available immediately, $550/month. No dogs please, call Vic, 349-5264.

Large furnished 2 bdrm, N/S, NP, references, newly remodeled, available immediately. Call for viewing, 347-6367.

Invermere, fully furnished 1 bdrm suite, suitable for single person, N/S, N/P, no parties. $600.00/month, all utilities included, available Jan.1st, 342-8621.

CONDO FOR RENT

Canal FlatsBrand new condo in Jade Landing. Kitchen, nook, and living room, deck, 2 bdrms & bath upstairs, unfi nished basement. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave. N/S, N/P, prefer mature individuals. Rent is $1000/month plus utilities and damage deposit of $1000. Call owner at 1-403-251-5996.

HOUSE FOR RENT

3 bdrm, 2 baths, house for rent in Pineridge Estates. Close to all schools, view of lake and mountains, $1600.00/month plus utilities. Prefer family, N/S, N/P, available Nov. 15, 2007. Call 780-406-6898, fax requests to 780-406-6897.

HOUSE FOR RENT

2 bdrm, 1.5 bath townhouse in Blackforest Village. 6 appliances plus a/c and central vac. N/S, N/P, no partiers, Available Dec. 15 or Jan. 1. $1225 plus utilities and $600 security deposit, 342-0783.

Invermere: New 2 bdrm, 2 ½ bath house with yard. Granite, stainless steel appliances, A/C, gas fi replace, air purifi er, W/D, garage, N/S, N/P, mature couple only. $1,400/month plus DD and util. Avail. Feb. 1/08. References required, 1 year lease, call 403-274-0106.

HOUSE FOR SALE

Mobile Home for Sale in Edgewater. Large lot, 2 decks, close to school, $265,000.00, 780-728-0121.

MISC. FOR SALE

Hay for sale, round bales. Phone Elkhorn Ranch 342-0617.

Support “Rockies” Hockey. Pine, Fir & Poplar – dry & split order 342-6908.

Used hot tub for sale $2,500.00. Call 341-7665 or 341-7727.

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDSFOR RENT

Call Eric Redeker Rocky Mountain Realty • 342-5914

www.ericredeker.com

Luxurious living at the Riverside Golfcourse in Fairmont Hot Springs

3 bdrm., furnished, seasonal, no pets, no smoking: $1,800/month plus utilities.

Valley’s Edge Resort in EdgewaterOnly minutes from Radium Hot Springs, Seasonal Rental, Furnished, References

required, No pets, No smoking. $1,100/month plus utilities.

LOOKING FOR ALONG-TERM RENTER?

Interior Health, Invermere Health Service Area is looking for a 2 bedroom apartment in Invermere for staff accommodation. The rental period would be for a minimum of one year starting early in 2008. We would prefer a furnished unit, utilities included that is in close proximity to the hospital.

We invite you to submit a letter of interest detailing terms and a rental price. Submissions will be accepted until December 31, 2007.

Invermere & District HospitalBag 5001, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0Phone: 342-2315 • Fax: 342-2319E-mail: [email protected]

Room to grow.

WANTED TO RENT

This 1 bedroom fully furnished condo located in the luxurious Sable Ridge complex comes complete with king sized bed, Penthouse furnishings, and everything you will need to make this retreat like condo home. This is the largest one bedroom condo in the complex which features a spacious living and dining room, large deck overlooking the pool, 2 hot tubs, and full vistas of the Rockies. All this plus heated underground parking, ensuite laundry, water, heat, and electricity are included. Make this award winning complex home at only $1550 per month. For more information please phone 403-861-5656.Call 341-6299 to place your classifi ed.

MISC. FOR SALE

Top soil, unscreened, call, 342-0617.

Cargo trailer, 4’x4’x8’, 14” tires, roof rack, good shape, $800. 341-7257/[email protected]

Have A Real Tree Christmas!

Queen sized box spring and mattress, like new, $150.00, 345-4575.

3 sets of scaff olds, including legs and platforms, 342-8848.

Cattle guard, heavy duty, 16’x 8’, $1,800.00, call 342-0617.

16 cubic feet standup freezer, 8 years old, $200.00, 342-3826.

SNOWMOBILES FOR SALE

2005 Polaris RMK 800, brand new rebuilt motor, bumper to bumper warranty valid until February 24, 2008. Low mileage, all paperwork avail. $8,500.00 OBO, 342-1527.

2006 Summit X 151 track, electric start, cover, less than 800 miles. Asking $9,800.00, 250-347-2250.

VEHICLE FOR SALE

$10,000,000in vehicle inventory.

Go to www. c r anb r ookdodge . c om

to view complete inventory.

VEHICLE FOR SALE

2002 Jeep LibertyLimited Edition V6, fully loaded, 4x4, 85,000 kms$ 1 6 , 5 0 0

250-432-5211

WANTED: 2003-4-5 Chev or GMC extended cab step side. Call Doug at 780-983-8764.

1996 GMC Sierra Z71 off road 4x4 extended cab with 3rd door, fully loaded, matching canopy, 226,000 km, excellent condition, very well maintained, $8,900.00, 342-6573.

1997 Ford Explorer XL, auto, cruise, A/C, AWD, dealer maintained, 200,000 kms, $7,500.00. Call 341-5912.

2002 4x4 Jimmy, excellent condition, 116,000 kms, $12,000.00, 347-6881.

2002 SAAB 9.5 Aero., 260hp, 5 speed, rocket stability & traction control, 17” alloy wheels, heated leather and mirrors, memory 9 speaker Harmon Kardon sound, Onstar, Zone climate control, power moon roof, dealer tuned, new brakes, CV joints and springs, mechanically perfect, 342-1354.

SERVICES

TOTAL HEATING SYSTEMS

Heat Pumps FurnacesDuct work342-1167

SERVICES

Phil’s Carpentry – Everything from roofs to decks, completion of basement and bathrooms. Phone 341-8033 cell or 342-8474 home. Not on valley time.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

This is a great opportunity to own your own business. Anglz Hair and Tanning Studio is For Sale. Anglz is a well established Salon for 10 years. It’s a busy Salon with high traffi c, full retail and full clientele. It has 4 stations, a tanning room, manicure/massage room, laundry/bathroom and large seating area. It has a total of 1100 square feet of space. If you think this is for you act now before it’s too late. Call Maria 250-342-3227.

CAREERS

Residential Care Worker. Temporary, full time position. RCA or PCA or HSW or equivalent. Union membership, HEU. See posting, Mt. Nelson Place. Manager: Donna Jeff erson 342-3699.

Dining room servers and kitchen help required. Competitive wages and benefi ts. Great benefi t package and work schedule. Call 489.0667.

Trims and Treasures Esthetics Studio

Is looking to expand its already amazing team of professionals! We are looking for an energetic, self motivated Stylist to start immediately. Health benefi ts available. Stop by and ask for France or email resume to [email protected]

SONSHINE CHILDREN’S CENTRE is looking for a “Responsible Adult” for Out-of-school programming. Please contact 342-9535

CAREERS

Derkson Plumbing & Heating requires a journeyman plumber, for The Resort @ Copper Point immediately. Experience in new housing and condo work, call Steve, 250-342-1449, or email resume to [email protected]

SONSHINE CHILDREN’S CENTRE is looking for a Casual Employee with their Early Childhood Education (ECE) Degree. Please call 342-9535

Store Clerks needed. Must be enthusiastic and enjoy people. $13/hour, store discounts and advancement opportunities. Apply in person to Invermere Petro-Canada.

Carpenters & Labourers required full time. Benefi ts and competitive wages. Reply by phone to Richard at Ski Home, 342-2555.

Valley Hawk Security is seeking full-time and part-time security guards. Night/day shifts in Invermere and Panorama area. Call 250-688-4295 or email resume to [email protected].

Full–time hair stylist wanted for Anglz Hair Studio. Call Maria, 342-3227.


PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

Do you want to grow? Both personally and professionally? Come to Invermere, BC and join our amazing team.

Just because we are small, it doesn’t mean we think small. Invermere, BC – the place with room to grow!

VACANCIES FOR ALL HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALSRNs, Support Services, Lab Techs, LPNs, Care

Aids and Clerical positionsINVERMERE & DISTRICT HOSPITAL

INVERMERE, BCFull-time, part-time & casual positions

We invite you to phone or apply online at www.roomtogrowbc.ca or submit a detailed resume, in confi dence to:

Human Resources Recruitment Services1212 Second St. N.Cranbrook, BC V1C 4T6Phone: 250-420-2442Fax: 250-420-2425E-mail: [email protected]

Room to grow.

FIREPLACE INSTALLER, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Required by a large established local business. A full time position is available for a responsible, self-motivat-ed individual with a professional appearance. A suitable

candidate should have knowledge of B.C. Installation Codes as well as service and maintenance of fi replaces,

however training may be provided to the right applicant. Must have a valid BC Driver’s License.

Please fax resume with references to: Diamond Heating and Spas

FAX: 342-7103Mail to: Box 117, Windermere, BC V0B 2L0

Email: [email protected]

New position availableFor the right person in the beautiful Village of Radium Hot Springs, B.C.

Th e Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is looking for a dynamic, organized individual to administer and implement the Radium Hot Springs tourism marketing plan in conjunction with the Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce. For job description and more information, please contact the Manager of the Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce by mail, email or fax. No phone calls please. Deadline for applications is December 15, 2007 at 5 pm.

Radium Hot Springs Chamber of CommerceP.O. Box 225, 7556 Main Street EastRadium Hot Springs, British Columbia, V0A 1M0 E-mail: [email protected]: 250-347-9127

December 7, 200736 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

PIONEER CLASSIFIEDS

NATURAL SPRINGS SPAIs now accepting applications for the position of:

ESTHETICIANSSeasonal and Full-time positions available for qualifi ed candidates with a passion for client service excellence. Th e successful candidates will possess the relevant cer-tifi cation for facials, manicures and pedicures. Prefer-ence will be give to those with esthetics experience however newly certifi ed applicants may apply. Our Estheticians will also have reception duties and must be able to multi task in a busy environment. Applicants must have excellent written and communication skills. Professionalism and good grooming are a must. Various shifts and weekends would be required. Hiring both immediately, and for our spring season (April).

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Ltd. off ers a competitive sal-ary and benefi t package with access to all Resort amenities. Please visit our website for more information on the Resort’s facilities at: www.fairmonthotsprings.com

Interested applicants please send resume with references to the attention of:

David Sheedy – Human Resources ManagerFax: 250-345-6616 or Email: [email protected]

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted personally.

Grizzly Mountain Grillin Radium

Requires Experienced Cooks and Servers

Call 342-1666 Fax: 341-3453or send resume to:

PO Box 1079, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Is now accepting applications for the position of:

LIFT OPERATORS – FULL TIMETh e successful candidate will be mature with excellent communication skills, with good customer service experience. Training will be provided.

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort off ers a competitive salary and benefi t package with access to all Resort amenities. Staff accommodations are available.

Interested applicants please forward their resume with references before December 10, 2007 to the attention of:

Human ResourcesFax: 250-345-6616 or email to: [email protected]

C O L U M B I A V A L L E Y P I O N E E R

w w w . c o l u m b i a v a l l e y p i o n e e r . c o m

W E A R E N O W A C C E P T I N G …

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS

NEW PAYMENT OPTIONS

• Call our Of ce Manager, Michele at 341-6299 with your Visa or Mastercard number.

• Pay in person at our of ce with credit or debit card at 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere.

• If you have a Paypal Account, you may pay online. Check our website for details at…

Read us online at: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com • E-mail: [email protected] • Phone: (250) 341-6299



N E W S P A P E R

O B J E C T I V E , C R E A T I V E ,

I N F O R M A T I V E !O B J E C T I V E , C R E A T I V E ,

I N F O R M A T I V E !

Submitted

“It was a big surprise,” said Eric Rasmussen, Presi-dent of the Invermere Seniors’ Association, when speaking about the discovery of wood shavings used as insulation in the Seniors’ Centre on 14th Street.

“As far as we know, the building was built by a church group in the 1960s. Th ey used lumber milled in Athalmer. Fir for studs and 1x8 and 1x6 shiplap was used throughout. For insulation, they used what was available locally and inexpensively – wood shav-ings. We think that the kids in the congregation might have been part of the construction crew. Th ere were a lot of extra nails in some of the boards we uncovered and some of them were a little bent. Structurally, the building is really fi ne,” he said.

With 160 members, over half of whom use it ev-ery week, the centre needed to increase the number of washrooms, provide handicap accessibility, and im-prove the effi ciency of the modest kitchen area to pro-vide more counter space, cupboards, and storage.

Planning and fundraising began more than a year ago for the two-level, 680-square-foot addition. Th e added space includes new toilet stalls in the women’s washroom; a handicap washroom; and another men’s washroom. Th e basement will house the building’s mechanical operations. Eventually, this will include an ultra-violet water purifi er system.

Eric Rasmussen, and another member Ed Cotton, began work on the renovation in August. Volunteers donated funds and signifi cant discounts on goods and services, making this project possible.

“Helmer Construction gave us a very good deal on concrete,” he said. “Th e insulated concrete forms used for the basement walls were supplied at cost and in-stalled by Colin McAndrews and Bucky Dalke, Dusk Framing did the framing, Rocky Mountain Cranes lifted trusses and materials, Kendall Hart is doing the torch-on roof, Intelligent Insulation Solutions is do-nating and installing Icynene spray foam insulation, replacing some of the wood shavings in the original structure and tying together the building envelope of the existing building and the addition. It’s a com-munity eff ort and without help from these and other companies and individuals, this project would take a lot longer and be quite a bit more costly.”

Th e centre is a busy place with bridge three times a week, fl oor curling, carpet bowling, cribbage and Th ursday drop-in for cards. In addition, 28 members are taking computer classes on the centre’s four com-puters. Th e centre is planning to add art classes. Th e hall is also available for rent.

“We’re very proud of this project and grateful for the assistance we have received from the community to enlarge and improve the facility. We look forward to welcoming new members and visitors,” he said.

Seniors’ Centreundergoingexpansion


IF YOU’RE LOCAL,YOU GET IT!The Columbia Valley Pioneer �

Grade 10 students in British Columbia continue to perform competitively in science, math, and reading, according to the latest international assessment, provincial Education Minister Shirley Bond has announced.

“Th ese international mea-sures consistently show that our schools and students are some of the fi nest in the world, but also show areas for growth,” said Ms. Bond.

Results were released recent-ly from the 2006 Programme for International Student Assess-ment of 15-year-olds’ abilities in science, math, and reading.

B.C. students were in the top-performing range world-wide, with only Finland doing signifi cantly better in the science category.

In reading, only Finland and Korea were above B.C.’s range; while in mathematics, fi ve juris-dictions were above B.C.’s range. When comparing average scores, B.C. ranked fourth in science, sixth in reading and thirteenth in math.

Generally, the 2006 results for B.C. show scores similar to 2003 results.

British Columbia has been identifi ed as the best Canadian example of a jurisdiction that has minimized the eff ect of socio-economic status on performance while still maintaining a high level of student performance.

Th e survey is administered by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development every three years. In 2006, 15-year-olds in 57 countries and 10 Canadian provinces participated, including nearly 1,900 students from 73 B.C. schools.

B.C. teens score high in science,

readingThe new cost of breaking

traffic laws will make these really handy.

Bad driving habits will soon cost you more.

Starting January 1, ICBC introduces the Driver Risk Premium. It makes drivers with bad habits pay more.

For very bad habits — a lot more. The decisions you make, including whether or not to speed, drive recklessly,

or drink and drive, are all within your control. Whether you pay more to drive is now up to you as well.

For more information visit ICBC.com.

icbc.com

PIONEER ON THE ROADDecember 7, 200738 • The Columbia Valley Pioneer

Keep thosephotos coming!

Th e Pioneer continues to make its way around the world. Remember there are only three weeks left to get your photo published in Th e Pioneer and be eligible to win two free nights in the Fantasy-land Hotel in West Edmonton Mall, courtesy of Travel World in Invermere.

All photos will be pub-lished, but only the names of Columbia Valley residents and homeowners will be en-tered in the draw.

Send your high-resolution photos to [email protected] or drop them off at our offi ce, 1008-8th Avenue, Invermere.Th e draw will be made on January 1, 2008.

Left: Th ree local friends went on a 50th Birthday Party cruise to the Virgin Is-lands - they are Anne Riches, Darlene Ferguson and Irene Ogilvie, along with some of their new friends. Centre left: Todd and Brenda Mitchell with daughter Madeleine in Sedona, Arizona; centre right: Nissa Nielsen, Scott Storvik and Ashley Meadows in Hell - that’s Hell, Grand Canyon. Bottom left: Alice Gorecki in Dubrovnik, Croatia; bot-tom, centre: Jackie and Larry Wright of Wasa, visiting the Maritimes; bottom right: Pe-ter and Rocky Krebs at Mag-netic Hill, New Brunswick.


LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH Sunday, Dec. 9th, Second Sunday of Advent, 10:30 a.m.

Worship and Life Instruction: “Give With the Generosity of Christ” with Pastor Jared Enns ministering.

Sunday School, age 3 to Grade 7, during morning service.7 p.m. Hymn Sing at the church.

For sermons online: www.sermonplayer.com/lwac326 - 10th Avenue, Invermere • 342-9535

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRYSunday, Dec. 9th, 8:30 a.m. - Edgewater - All Saints

10:30 a.m. - Invermere - Christ Church TrinityRev. Sandy Ferguson • 110 - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 342-6644

www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY10 a.m. Sunday: Children’s Church

during the message part of the service.7 p.m., Sunday: Prayer Meeting

Senior Pastor Rev. John Cuyler • www.vcassembly.comHighway 93/95, 1 km north of Windermere • 342-9511

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCHCanadian Martyrs Church, Invermere • Father Jim McHugh

Saturday 7 p.m. Mass • Sunday 9 a.m. MassSt. Joseph’s Church, Hwy 93/95 Radium Sunday 11 a.m. Mass

St. Anthony’s Church, Canal Flats • Sunday 4 p.m.712 -12th Ave., Invermere • 342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERERegular weekly 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 FELLOWSHIPEvery Sunday 10 a.m., Sunday School 10 a.m.

Every Wednesday 7 p.m., Bible StudyPastor Wayne and Linda Frater • Radium Seniors’ Hall • 342-6633

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTERDAY SAINTSSunday Service, 10 a.m. • Sunday School, 11 a.m.

Noon Sunday: Relief SocietyPresident Grant Watkins • Columbia Valley Branch5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs • 345-0079

Valley ChurchesFAITH

Selkirk TV & Appliance

1229-7th Ave., Invermere 342-6415

• Kitchenaid • Inglis

• Whirlpool • Roper

PanasonicPioneer

Cell PhonesElectronics & Service

Christian Books, Music & Misc.

Call 341-6151 or

1-888-341-6155rayfergusonrealty.ca

WE SELL REAL ESTATE• Radium • Invermere • Panorama• Windermere • Fairmont

UNBELIEVABLE OPPORTUNITY

Large corner lot. Renovated, full duplex -development potential. Zoned for 4 plex. Staff housing,

rental income, investment.

$449,000MLS# K166061

Flu Drop-inThe Travel Medicine and Vaccination Center will be having a one hour

drop in for those people that did not qualify for the free vaccine. The Flu vaccine will be off ered for $20.00.

Infl uenza is a serious viral infection of the nose throat and lungs and about 1400 people die of the Flu or Pneumonia in B.C.

every year. The Flu shot given to healthy children and adults limit the chances of wider spread Infl uenza outbreaks in the less healthy populations.

Date: December 13, 2007Time: 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: Dr. Dibb’s Medical offi ce, 1317, 7th Ave. Invermere (Near the Bakery)

By Sandy FergusonChrist Church Trinity

“Poop” was our nick-name for little Miller (not his real name). He was a very wee orange kit-ten who had been aban-doned. Someone found him and called ICAN, the Invermere Compan-ion Animal Network.

Next thing I knew, my wife Jenn, who is a mem-ber of ICAN, was volunteering to look after Miller for a few days. She brought him home. He was a sweet-heart, but when he fi rst arrived he was quite sick.

Nevertheless, he loved to curl up with us and purr, but, at the same time, his diarrhea meant he would poop! However, within a few days of loving care with us and another foster home he got better and his poop-ing stopped.

Now, Miller is in a new home, enjoying life as a kitten, spreading the gift of love to others.

So, why am I sharing the story of Miller? During the Christmas season, we celebrate the gift of God’s love for all of creation, revealed through the gift of Christ Jesus. And part of this celebration is serving those in creation who are less fortunate than us.

ICAN is truly is such a group. Th rough its work, it has helped a whole variety of companion animals, from cats, dogs, bunnies and even guinea pigs, fi nd new homes and get a second chance to bring love into a family’s life.

It’s a wonderful gift to receive the gift of love from an animal who is given such a chance. Both of our dogs, Duff y and Tucker, came from shelters and are such wonderful advertisements for why rescued ani-mals make such great companions.

We got Duff y from the shelter in Fort St. John. He is a big black northern mix, with a gentle soul who likes to happily plod through life with his semi-tooth-less grin.

Tucker came to us from Canmore, and, yes, we did some cross-border shopping! He is a dapper little gentleman with a happy-go-lucky attitude that is quite infectious.

Now, Duff y and Tucker are brothers, as they trot along together through life and share in our lives, they bring joy and healing through a look and a hug.

ICAN is a witness to the old Jewish proverb that he who saves a life, saves the world. And as animals are a living part of the creation of God, through their eff orts, ICAN does change the world for the better, when they share their gift of love through serving those animals that are in need.

Th ey are also a profound reminder that anyone can change the world, all it takes is a willingness to serve others and respond to a need.

If you wish to help out ICAN, their website is www.icanhelpapet.com and their phone number is 341-7888.

Th ey need foster homes, volunteers, people to adopt their loving animals, and donations. On De-cember 7th and 14th, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., at Chopper’s Pet Supplies, ICAN has brought in Santa, so if you want a photo of your pet with Santa, be there!

Rescue a homeless animal


InvermereIndependently Owned and Operated

250-342-6505

www.ReMaxInvermere.comToll Free: 1-888-258-9911

On The Mountainside

Endless PossibilitiesExcellent Value

Build Your Home

Buy Today: Pro t Tomorrow!

Location, Location, Location

Wende Brash342-1300

Bernie Raven342-7415

Ed English342-1194

Jan Klimek342-1195

John McCarthy342-1758

Andy Smith342-1709

Bryan Hookenson341-1266

Rob Rice341-5935

Deborah-Kim Rice342-5935

Paul Glassford341-1395

Family Getaway

Wow!

Partially cleared, and with sunny southern exposure to front road, Fairmont moun-tainside building lot is ready for your recreational/retirement home now or any time you are ready – no building commitment. Close to all Fairmont amenities: golf courses, ski hill, mineral hot springs, shopping and dining. MLS#K166779

$169,900

Quality home for the fi rst-time home buyer, investment buyer or home-based busi-ness out of detached double garage/workshop. Open living room, dining room & kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fenced yard, decks & patio. Close to everything. Call quickly – this one is a winner! MLS#K166592

$349,500

No time commitment and a cul-de-sac location in Westridge. Huge partial lake view and fantastic mountain and valley view lot in Invermere’s premier community. Close to everything. Perfect for a walk-out basement. The only one of its kind. MLS#K166808

$209,000

Own the busiest video store in Fairmont. The numbers speak for themselves and the location is ideal. Call for information package. MLS# NEW

$199,900

You’re at the highest point. Take in the most spectacular mountain views for miles. This lot is in a quiet gated community with a cleared building site ready for you to build your dream home. No building commitment. MLS#K166836

$379,000

This unique property offers a house and a guest house. The possibilities for either 2 or 3 families to own property together, or amazing revenue potential abound! Too many features to mention them all. Take a look! MLS#K163347

$586,000

Large pie-shaped lot in The Cottages at Copper Point. Just minutes to Inver-mere and all of its amenities. This property would be perfect for a side walk-out, backs south and is treed for privacy. Best of all, no building commitment. MLS#K166479

$159,000

Fully fi nished on 3 fl oors, open living area with vaulted ceiling and beautifully decorated. Large rec room and walkout basement. This cottage has all the ameni-ties and convenience that makes it the perfect year round cottage. MLS#NEW

$498,900

Brand new in Timber Ridge. Designed to use every inch of space, four bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms, and large garage for the toys. Private beach and boat launch with four tennis courts. Comes with wonderful detail of hardwood fl ooring, knotty pine cabinets and screened in porch. MLS#K162828

$654,900

Golf Course AcreageOver an acre in paradise with a creek is the setting for this outstanding log home. Hand crafted logs, vaulted ceilings and fl oor to ceiling river rock fi replace set the stage for this large, bright two and a half storey home with a huge de-tached shop. Open design with 36 inch doors and an eleva-tor to all three fl oors makes this home handicap accessible for family or Bed & Breakfast guests. Call for a complete list of features. MLS#K163099

$995,000

Spectacular HomeThis beautiful home is located in the prestigious Lakeview Meadows development in the Rocky Mountain trench. Come and view this unbeliev-able home in our spectacular mountain setting. This four season playground has it all!MLS#McLauchlin

$1,500,000

Jill Hall688-5675

Perfect Cottage

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