2011cv-business.web

�� Columbia Valley ��

2011-2012BUSINESS

Columbia Valley Business is published by The Columbia Valley Pioneer.Photo by Kate Irwin

PAGE 10

Sydney-Anne Porter, Greg Lapointe and Eric Lapointe from AG Valley Foods.

Family business

A GUIDE TO SHOPS AND SERVICES IN RADIUM, INVERMERE, WINDERMERE AND FAIRMONT

FREE

FREE

�� Table of Contents ��

Road Runner Glass p.11

From unearthing hidden gems to discovering new facets of an established business, I have been impressed with the rich and diverse range of services and products the valley has to off er.

Within these pages you will fi nd profi les of some of the Columbia Valley’s best and brightest business stars. From the largest fi rm to the smallest home business, these companies and indi-viduals play an essential role in creating a vibrant and varied local business community.

One thing that shines through above all when speaking with businesses is the passion that those who live and work here have for this valley and its guests.

Owners have raved about the fantastic support from locals and cannot speak highly enough of the visitors who return to them year after year. This level of praise is only equalled by the feed-back I’ve heard from customers and clients as I’ve toured around the community.

Good customer service is the lifeblood of any business, and from the sounds of it, the organi-zations here have got a healthy future ahead of them. It just goes to show what a high level of excellence small town businesses can achieve.

What’s more, each manager and owner spoken with has mentioned their desire to make their business the best it can be so that, in turn, the Columbia Valley as a whole can benefi t. They hire great staff , provide second-to-none customer service and off er top-end products and services that they feel the valley really needs.

It’s good business sense like that which keeps our community thriving.

Kate Irwin, Editor

Welcome to the Columbia Valley Business Magazine

Mac-Neilp.12

Selkirk TV and Appliance p.14

What an eye-opening experience it has been putting together the 2011-2012 edition of The Columbia Valley Business Magazine.

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Welcome

Essentials Department Store

High Country Properties

Universal Doors and Exteriors

Kool Country

OK Tire

Valley Solutions

Crazy Soles Running & Yoga Store

AG Valley Foods

Nelie's Salon

Road Runner Glass

Mac-Neil

Manulife Securities Inc.

Selkirk TV and Appliance

Bighorn Meadows Resort

Hoodoo Grill

Rona North Star Hardware

Hi Heat Insulating

Screen Solutions Inc.

Columbia Valley Pioneer

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rose-Marie RegitnigEditor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate IrwinAdvertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave SutherlandGraphic Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shawn WernigWriters/Photography . . . . Kate Irwin, Kelsey Verboom, Joshua Estabrooks

N EW S PA P E R

Box 868, #8, 1008 – 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0Phone 250-341-6299Fax 250-341-6229 Email: [email protected]

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

Columbia Valley Business is published annually by The Columbia Valley Pioneer Newspaper, Misko Publishing Limited Partnership.

Screen Solutions

Inc.p.18

�� Columbia Valley ��

BUSINESS

Rona North Star Hardware

p.17

Universal Doors and Exteriors p.6

4 ∙∙∙ Columbia Valley Business Magazine 2011—2012

✔ Clothing, shoes and accessories✔ Sewing supplies, yarn and wool✔ Sewing machine repairs

516 13th Street, [email protected]

Essentials Department Store

New location, same great quality, choice and value

“We pride ourselves on our customer service,

friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff — that’s our number one focus,” said Carrie Rickards, owner of Essentials Department Store.

Providing top-quality service to customers has always been at the centre of Carrie’s vi-sion for the clothing and sewing supply store. When she took over operations in 2006, Essen-tials was an eclectic mix of products.

Over the past fi ve years, Carrie has stream-lined the store, keeping alive the tradition of sewing workshops in the in-store classroom and a large range of quilting and sewing sup-plies, while carefully hand-picking her clothing and accessory lines. “It’s kind of a quirky com-bination,” Carrie said with a smile. “But it works.”

Now the store is the ideal one-stop shop for sewers, quilters and anyone in need of com-fortable, well-made clothing, shoes and acces-

sories for men and women. “We always try to carry great lines,” Carrie explained. “New this fall will be SmartWool, who make great base and outer layers and wool socks from merino wool. Sorel winter boots and Columbia footwear will also be featured in the store.”

One of Carrie’s favourite brands in Essentials is Columbia Sportswear, a mid-price, high-quality range of men’s and women’s clothing well suited to the outdoor lifestyle of the valley.

Younger shoppers love the Life is Good range, with their funky printed T-shirts and cute bags and accessories. Woolrich and Royal Robbins are other main lines.

As the stock changes regularly, shoppers will fi nd themselves well-equipped for any season, with a wide range of swimsuits in the summer and winterwear when the temperatures cool.

Providing regular special off ers for her re-peat customers is very important to Carrie. The store has weekly specials, which range from 20 per cent discounts on a particular line or brand, to a fantastic deal on fabrics or wool.

“We’re the only sewing centre in town,” Car-

rie said. “We sell Husqvarna sewing machines and also service sewing machines. People come from all around the area, as far as Golden and Cranbrook to get their machines fi xed.”

The store has a wide selection of sewing, knitting and quilting supplies, including a huge choice of fabrics, as well as domestic and imported yarn and wools. Regular sewing and quilting classes are held at Essentials, serving anyone from total beginners to sewing pros.

“We’re also very community oriented,” Carrie added. “We sponsor quite a few events. I think it’s important because a lot of our customers are locals. It’s nice to give something back.”

Essentials sells tickets year-round for CV Arts and are one of the sponsors of the annual Loop The Lake run, a fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Invermere.

Carrie Rickards and the Essentials team look forward to welcoming you to their new store on Invermere's 13th Street.

Columbia Valley Business Magazine 2011—2012 ∙∙∙ 5

We know that owning a vacation home can be a lot of work, so would like to off er you “carefree” ownership.

The benefi t of carefree ownership is that you will know your vacation home is being kept in the best possible condition from the inside out and will always be ready for your ar-rival. Some of the many benefi ts of listing your property with us include that we:

Are ESTABLISHED – we have been providing property management services to vacation homeowners in Fairmont, Invermere, Panora-ma, Windermere and Radium since 1987.

Are BRANDED – we are well-known in the vacation rental industry and are trusted by guests.

✔ Property management services✔ Dedicated to quality control✔ Committed to guest services

1006-7th Avenue, Invermere1-800-665-1801 www.highcountryproperties.com

High Country Properties

Peace of mind for second home-owners

We believe owning a vacation home should be

a fun and rewarding experience. High Country Properties is able to assist you with everything you will need.

Provide COMPLETE PROPERTY CARE – Our operations department keeps your home in the best possible condition from the inside out.

FULLY EQUIP YOUR HOME – we provide bed linens, bath towels, tea towels and dish cloths. We also stock each property with garbage bags, dishwasher soap, standard light bulbs, paper towel, toilet paper, facial tissue, laundry soap and our own selection of toiletries.

Are DEDICATED TO QUALITY CONTROL – To ensure a positive experience, our operations team oversees all property cleans and pre-pares each home prior to a guest or owner arrival.

Are COMMITTED TO GUEST SERVICES – Our largest source of business comes from repeat and referred guests, which proves we continu-ally meet and exceed guests’ expectations. We have a guest services line which allows you to reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Are COMMITTED TO OWNER RELATIONS – Our owner relations manager will assist with the set-up of your home for short-term rentals.

ACCOUNT FOR EVERYTHING – We have an experienced accounting team, lead by our Chief Financial Offi cer, who keeps track of all income and expense statements.

Produce RESERVATIONS – Our friendly and knowledgeable reservation specialists set the stage for an outstanding vacation experience for guests. They tour each of our properties in order to best understand and “sell” each home. Our reservation specialists also work with guests to reserve tee times, lift tickets, spa treatments, dinner reservations, or anything else they may desire.

We know MARKETING – We promote each home through a multi-channel marketing program that includes Internet, print, radio and trade shows. We also maintain important industry relationships with the travel wholesal-ers and the Vacation Rental Managers Associa-tion (VRMA).

Come talk to us about how you can cover some of the costs associated with owning a second home without compromising your family’s vacation time!

Let the staff at High Country Properties take the stress out of owning a vacation home.


A convenient one-stop shop for all your exterior finishing needs

With a wealth of knowledge gained from more than 15 years in the business, Arnold Scheffer

stands by his work. He knows his company, Universal Doors and Exteriors, is unique in the valley.

✔ Custom doors and installations✔ Huge choice of exterior fi nishings✔ Outstanding customer service

1361 Industrial Road #4, Invermere250-342-6700 - 250-341-5352 (cell) [email protected]

Universal Doors and Exteriors

Nowhere else has such a high-quality range of options to create the ideal exterior fi nish for any home or business. Arnold and his team off er quality products, fantastic customer service and the true attention to detail that comes with loving what you do.

“When we started this business, no one else here was doing what we do, and that’s still the case,” he said. It was 2005 when Arnold and his wife (and co-owner) Donna came to Invermere from Trail, B.C. Building on more than a decade of experience as partner in a similar fi rm, Arnold’s company quickly took root in the valley.

“What I enjoy most about this business is that the customers are great and it’s always diff erent,” he said. “Whether we’re repairing a door or building one from scratch, it’s always challenging.”

Arnold and his skilled team, which includes daughter, Jaime-Lee, install, service and repair garage doors and rolling steel doors for residential, commercial and industrial use.

The company also supplies and installs passage doors for com-

mercial and industrial use, storefront doors and windows, and truck doors.

Not only can the team install top-end metal insulated doors, they also custom build wooden doors and wood inserts for metal doors at their shop in Invermere’s Industrial Park. “We use mostly cedar and fir,” Arnold said. “But if we’re asked, we can certainly custom build a door using exotic wood or woods.”

In addition to doors, Universal Doors and Exteriors supplies and installs wood, concrete and vinyl siding, soffi ts, fascia, continuous eavestroughs, window capping, vinyl decking and custom-welded aluminum railings.

Add to that glass and acrylic sun rooms, acrylic and aluminum pa-tio covers, screen rooms, roll shutters, fabric awnings and motorized awnings, and all your exterior needs are met in one location

The Scheff er family has a strong presence in Invermere. Arnold’s brother Peter, who owns Invermere Wash & Lube & RV (also in the Industrial Park), was the fi rst family member to arrive in 1986.

His sister Jami, well-known as the manager of Pynelogs Cultural Centre, came along in 2002. Her parents, Casey and Toni, were quick to follow in 2003.

“Donna and I enjoy having our family close by and we love our business,” Arnold said. “We’re defi nitely here to stay.”

Left, this beautiful home has been fi nished with the help of Arnold Scheff er and his skilled team. Above, rolling screens help to protect outdoor spaces from rays, weather and insects.


Back then, Kool Country was simply an auto wrecker. But parts were hard to fi nd in the valley, so Ivan soon opened a parts store.

Three years later, he bought an "old 1974 Ford F350 with a sling – that's all we had" – and started a towing side of the business.

Now the business provides a full range of auto services. The expansive parts store has a large

range of alternators, radiators and more.

Manager William Franson has just introduced a VIP card for regular customers. Card-holders have access to special deals, and each month they are entered into a draw to win auto products.

Kool Country has been a li-censed B.C. Automobile Asso-ciation contractor for 20 years. They are also the local contrac-tor for many car makers' road-side assistance. They are the fi rst to get a call if any vehicle breaks down anywhere be-tween halfway to Golden in the north, Fairmont in the south and east to the Alberta border.

The tire business has been operating for eight years now. Manager Rick Lake came on board in August of 2009. After growing up in the valley, Rick moved to Saskatoon for 20 years and then returned.

"We have the full line of tires in stock," Rick said, "but we can special order any tire you need."

Available now is the Hankook Optimo 4S, a true four-season tire.OK Tire also sells custom wheels and winter wheels, as well as wheel

and tire accessories.All of Rick's staff know their stuff , work hard and give great service."Our tire prices are comparable or better than in Calgary or Cran-

brook," Rick said.

A full auto service destination

Superior service and quality tires

For 26 years, Ivan Mackey and William

Franson have operated the valley's centre for automotive needs, Kool Country Auto Parts, Towing and Rads.

Nearly any tire you can you dream of is available at OK Tire, located beside Kool Country in

Invermere's Industrial Park.

✔ Full range of auto services✔ Serving the valley for over 26 years✔ Auto parts and towing

✔ Wide range of summer and winter tires✔ 8th year in business ✔ Wheel and tire accessories

Lot 150, Industrial Road #2, Invermere250-342-1700 (cell), 250-342-5188 (cell - towing)250-342-4400 (office - parts)

Lot 150, Industrial Road #2, Invermere(beside Kool Country)250-342-0800

Kool Country Auto Parts

OK Tire

William Franson (left) and Ivan Mackey with the in-stantly recognizable Kool Country truck.

Rick Lake, manager of OK Tire, knows he has the best tire business in the Columbia Valley.


In 2006, they started a business, Valley So-lutions, to take care of those empty homes.

"Valley Solutions focuses on the needs of the vacation homeowner," Judy said.

Together, Bob and Judy check homes as often as insurance requires, and more often when temperatures drop below minus 20.

They can be there to meet contractors should the home owner need to replace a leaky tap, or have a room re-painted.

"We are the homeowner's presence in the valley," Judy explained. "Wherever they are, they can call me and I will head straight over."

After four years in business, Valley Solu-tions now cares for almost 30 homes be-tween Spur Valley in the north, and Colu-mere Park in the south.

"It has grown each year by about 25 per-cent," Judy said.

About a third of those customers, Judy explained, rent out their home on a weekly basis through a vacation stay website.

Judy and Bob will check on the home af-ter the tenants have left at the end of the week.

"We check there is no damage, wait for cleaners to arrive, and organise repairs if they are needed," Judy said.

"I'm here to look after the home and make sure the renters stick to their agreement."

Last winter, a couple of Judy's clients real-ized how worthwhile the service was.

"Last winter, a couple of my clients had the heating fail in their home," Judy recalled.

"While we waited for the repairs to be done, we put in electric heaters so there was no damage."

Judy and Bob consider their business

✔ A watchful eye over your second home✔ Regular checks on all properties✔ Quick call-out for any household problem

[email protected]

Valley Solutions

Local couple watches over vacation homes

When Bob and Judy Beck moved to Fairmont from

Calgary full time in 2004, they noticed a strange phenomenon. By the time October rolled around, their's was the only house on the street still occupied. The Becks saw a need.

"semi-retirement". Before they moved to the valley from Calgary, Bob was a fi refi ghter and Judy had a career in large hotel manage-ment. They have one adult daughter, who lives in Calgary and just became engaged.

Valley Solutions is a labour of love for the Becks.

"We're retired but this keeps us busy," Judy said. "We meet lots of great people and get to visit lots of places we wouldn't usually.

"Fairmont is a nice community and the Columbia Valley is a nice area to live in. We'll never move back to Calgary now."

Bob and Judy are active members of the community, and that means they have the network to solve any housing dilemma.

"I have so many contacts in the valley that if I can't fi x something, I know who to call," Judy said. "With this service, anything I can do for you, I will."

Bob and Judy Beck care for nearly 30 vacation homes across the valley.


✔ Unique clothing and shoes✔ Nutrition and accessories✔ Free weekly trail runs

1045B 7th Avenue, downtown Invermere250-342-2074 - [email protected]

Crazy Soles running & Yoga Store

Competitive runners Beva and Jordie Kirk moved to Invermere and opened a tiny store in 2008 to meet the needs of runners and yoga athletes seeking quality service and products.

Since then the business has grown and is now enjoying more space in its beautiful new location on Invermere's main street. Beva and Jordie stress that they are very grateful for all the support, both from loyal locals and the visitors who return to the store every time they are in town.

“I think my favorite part is meeting all the new runners, hearing about their adventures and sharing our beautiful trails with them,“ Beva said.

But Crazy Soles is far more than just a retail store! They are active members of the Columbia Valley's recreational and athletic scene,

An athlete's paradise in downtown Invermere

The newly located Crazy Soles running and yoga store is well into their fourth year of success.

organizing free group runs, kids' running programs and the annual Crazy Soles Nipika Trail Run. The business and its staff also off er their support to numerous other valley events through sponsorship and volunteerism.

This year at Crazy Soles visitors can look forward to a huge se-lection of brightly-coloured Nuu-Muu exercise dresses, skirts and a whole selection of minimal footwear including Vibram Five Finger Shoes. This winter the store will supply Nordic skiers with a range of gear. Beva and Jordie are both avid cross-country skiers and are very excited to support fellow Nordic ski enthusiasts with top-quality ser-vice, apparel and hardware.

“With the lake getting so much use in the winter for Nordic ski-ing we need to support that. It’s very easy for us because we enjoy it so much ourselves.,” said Beva, who competed in the 2011 World Master Cross Country Ski Events this past winter, coming home with several medals.

Jordie and Beva Kirk run Invermere's only running and yoga store.


Cleanliness, friendliness, quality and competitive pricing are a given at most grocery stores. Meeting industry standard is good but the team at Valley Foods strives to be great. They want to exceed your expectations and guarantee an excellent shopping experience. How do they do that?

They start by listening to you — the customer. As independent operators, they can embrace change and put it into effect readily and easily. When customers voice their opinions or concerns, the staff and management of Valley Foods listen, consider their op-tions and respond quickly.

Valley Foods was listening when Baby Boomers said, “We want to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle and we are ready to change our eating habits.” They understood when parents insist-ed, “We want to ensure our children get the best possible start in life.” They complied when customers suggested, “We want access to alternative food groups. We want more choices.”

You will find a vast and exciting selection of alternative choices at Valley Foods. You are invited to take time to browse the aisles and explore these options.

✔ Locally-owned and family-run✔ Full range of gluten-free products✔ Friendly and knowledgeable staff

906 7th Avenue, Invermere250-342-3330

AG Valley Foods

Challenge the Mundane!

"What can we do to be different?" The staff and management of Valley Foods are always

asking this question.

Valley Foods has seen many internal and external changes since Sydney-Anne Porter bought the business 13 years ago. Customers have reaped the benefits from a growing selection of delectable delights and frequent cosmetic facelifts. Life is never boring at 906-7th Avenue and change is a frequent visitor.

The biggest change took place when Sydney-Anne’s sons, Eric and Greg Lapointe, agreed to join her business five years ago. The boys were eager, willing and passionate in their de-sire to develop and understand the grocery industry. Their passion and maturity grew as their knowledge and sense of community increased and now, Eric and Greg are running the business.

With great pride and confidence, Mom has handed over the reins and is assisting from the sidelines. Inspiration, vitality and passion are key elements of a successful business and Sydney-Anne trusts her boys have it all!

Valley Foods endeavours to anticipate and exceed the com-munity’s needs in every possible way. Their CVCC awards are a symbol their success. They were named Retailer of the Year in 2000, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010 and Business of the Year in 2002, 2003 and 2009.

Eric and Greg are dedicated to accepting the challenge and look forward to continue serving you with a difference!

Sydney-Anne and her sons Greg and Eric have built a reputation for community giving and great customer service at Valley Foods.


Nelie’s Salon, located around the corner of Main Street’s Koote-nay Block, provides an intimate, contemporary setting for all of your hairstyling needs.

Classic or modern, the only thing standing between you and your ultimate hairstyle is a little bit of imagination — which you can let salon owner Jeanelle Reynolds take care of.

Jeanelle was born and raised in Invermere, graduating from the

College of the Rockies’ hairdress-ing program in 2008. She also holds a business diploma from Mount Royal University in Cal-gary; so she was well prepared to take on the task of owning and operating her own business.

Nelie’s provides cuts for every member of the family, as well as colouring, highlights and perma-nent waves. Also available in the salon are a wide selection of AG Hair Cosmetics and Moroccanoil for purchase.

Jeanelle can also work with your specifi c needs in prepara-tion for special events such as fashion shows and graduations; so don’t hesitate to give her a call with your custom requests.

With a 2010 Business Excellence Award for best trade services under their belts, owners Murray Foster, a certifi ed Journeyman Glazier, and glass artist Kaylene Earl are proud to off er a full range of glassworks services from their base in Fairmont Hot Springs. From auto glass to commercial buildings to historical restora-tions, the knowledgeable and friendly fi ve-person team is ready to take on any project.

“I believe that the secret to our success is the quality of workmanship and employees

Cutting edge styles for everyone

Security, style and sun protection offered by local glass firm

Entering its second year in business,

Radium Hot Spring’s freshest hair salon is still going strong.

Award-winning Road Runner Glass is entering into its 30th

year serving the Columbia Valley and surrounding area.

✔ Men's and women's hairdressing✔ Hair for special events and weddings✔ Colouring, highlights and perms

✔ 2010 Business Excellence Award winner✔ Serving the area since 1982✔ Auto glass, residential and commercial

Unit #3 - 7527 Main Street WestRadium Hot Springs250-347-6706

Fairmont Hot [email protected] www.roadrunnerglass.ca

Nelie's Salon

Road Runner Glass

who strive to maintain that quality,” Kaylene explained. In addition to providing top quality glass for homes, commercial projects, indus-try and automobiles, Road Runner also off er speciality glass. These custom made pieces in-clude stained and etched glass, glass deck rail-ings, shower enclosures and decorative glass.

“We’re also proud to be a dealer and installer

of Armorcoat window fi lm,” Kaylene said. “It’s a great security feature especially for second homes which are often left sitting empty. It would take sledgehammer hits over and over to break through the glass.”

The clear barrier bonds to the inside of win-dows, reinforcing glass as well as protecting against 99 per cent of ultraviolet rays.

Nelie's Salon in Radium is open for appointments and walk-in clients.


✔ Mowing and irrigation✔ Landscaping and tree services✔ Serving the valley for over 20 years

Neil Carey: 250-341-7084 - [email protected] Fullerton: 250-341-7148 - [email protected]

Mac-Neil

Mac-Neil: Creative outdoor living

Not many people know the story of Mac-Neil Mowing. Twenty

fi ve years or so ago, two brothers, spending their summer living in Timber Ridge, decided to make some summer money by cutting their neighbour's lawn.

One lawn turned into two, two became four and before long a business was born.

Mac-Neil Mowing has been making val-ley lawns shine for a quarter century and in the last seven years has added Irrigation and Landscaping divisions to their ever-growing business.

Neil Carey, owner of Mac-Neil, said this about their humble beginnings: "I think I spent my mowing money on hockey cards that fi rst summer. It's been a lot of blades of grass cut since then."

The company has been fortunate to main-tain one essential element over the years.

"We have always had great people work-ing with this company," Neil said. "We try to make it feel like family . . . that's how we started."

Gord Fullerton joined the team in 2003 and Mac-Neil Irrigation was created to keep up with the demand of watering issues in the valley.

From the smallest leak in your garden to golf course sprinkler installation, Mac-Neil can handle all your water issues.

Mac-Neil Landscaping followed closely behind and with it a one-stop company that can handle all your outdoor needs.

"We work closely with a few diff erent businesses that enable us to off er services beyond most companies", Gord stated.

Whether it's a new deck, tree services, fi re-wood, horticultural needs or window wash-ing, Mac-Neil can help you out.

“There are a lot of aspects to keeping the outside of your house as nice as the house itself. We'd like to think we are able to handle any of your outside needs. If we can’t do it, we

will fi nd you someone who can,” Gord said.Recently, 3D computer-generated design

has been added to the Mac-Neil Landscap-ing services list.

“It gives our clients a great visual tool for picturing their landscaped property,” Gord said.

“Sometimes it’s hard to stare at the bare dirt and imagine a nice backyard. This pro-gram helps with that. Having a good imagi-nation helps, too!”

From the biggest dreams to the small-est project, working with the customer to match their needs is number one on the list for the Mac-Neil crew.

“We take pride in the work we do,” Neil added. “Your home is the greatest asset you have and we want to help you out in any way we can. We love what we do for a living and the results show.”

That is the story of Mac-Neil. Mowing, irri-gation, landscaping and much more. A one-stop company for all your outdoor needs. Raised in the valley and making it shine, one lawn at a time.

Your one-stop company for all your outdoor needs.


Brendan and Sara co-own the Manulife Securities Incorporated offi ce in Invermere, where they work as investment advisors and life insurance agents, together with their ad-ministrative assistant Judy Sauve-Wilkins.

“The fi nancial backing and resources of a large corporation like Manulife has been a great comfort and benefi t for our clients,” Brendan said, “Yet we are still able to main-tain our independence when making in-vestment and insurance recommendations. We are in no way obligated to use Manulife products for our clients.”

The fi rm specializes in a variety of services, including fi nancial planning, estate plan-ning, and life insurance.

“We basically help people decide what to do with their money and how to invest their savings,” Brendan said. “Unlike other local fi rms, we are able to sell more than just mu-tual funds, so we can really add value and cost savings when helping people with their investments.”

Manulife Securities Incorporated is the only locally licensed securities fi rm — a dis-tinction Brendan and Sara are proud of.

“While other local fi rms can only invest in mutual funds, we can deal in mutual funds, stocks, bonds and other products,” Sara ex-plained. “Anyone in the industry can put to-gether a fi nancial plan, but how we follow through with investment recommendations is where we really add value for our clients.”

In order to receive qualifi cations as li-censed investment advisors, Brendan and Sara committed themselves to a higher level

Financial Planning With a Full Tool Box

Brendan Donahue and Sara Worley know how to put

together a fi nancial plan, and have the investment tools to back it up.

✔ Financial planning and life insurance✔ Investment advice✔ $115 million in client assets

712-10th Street, Invermere250-342-2112 (phone)250-342-2113 (fax)

MANULIFE SECURITIES INC.

of educational training through the Canadi-an Securities Institute.

“Being licensed to sell stocks and bonds, as opposed to just mutual funds, brings on a whole other level of regulatory scrutiny and educational requirements,” Sara ex-plained. “Many fi nancial advisors fi nd this too diffi cult, or just too cumbersome, but we make the commitment to better serve our clients.”

During the past year, Brendan and Sara have passed the important milestone of $100 million of client assets under man-agement, recently reaching the $115 mil-lion mark.

“We’ve been very fortunate to be located in a retirement community and have been very well received by the public” comment-ed Brendan. “We’re pretty conservative by nature and have a lot of experience deal-ing with retirees and estate matters. I think those attributes match up well with the de-

mographics of the community.”The branch has also qualifi ed to attend

special conferences during the past three years where Sara and Brendan are able to meet with and pick the brains of top invest-ment professionals and Manulife execu-tives from across the country.

“It’s a real benefi t being from a smaller community like Invermere to be able to chat with top guys from a large fi rm like Manulife Securities Incorporated about what they are recommending to their cli-ents and how they are running their prac-tices,” Brendan commented.

The Invermere offi ce has a lot in store for the next twelve months, Sara revealed. Af-ter much success in the local area they will be looking to expand the business by one more advisor, provided they can fi nd some-one with the right qualifi cations, experi-ence, complimentary skills and, of course, personality.

Corporate Logos: Trade Name + Dealership Sub Logos

3/16" Minimum size to be used on business cards

1/4" Minimum size to be used on the standard sized brochures

5/16" This size to be used on all oversized brochures.

Manulife Securities Incorporated = IDAManulife Securities Investment Services inc. = MFDAManulife Securities Insurance Inc. = INSURANCE

English French

3/8" This size to be used on pieces where the width of the piece exceeds 12”.

Colour: PANTONE 349






English French


Colour: PANTONE 349






English French


Colour: PANTONE 349

Sara Worley and Brendan Donahue off er a full range of fi nancial services from their downtown Invermere offi ce.


This year, Selkirk TV and Appliance is proudly celebrating the 40th year of operation under the Matheson family. Two generations of Mathesons have owned and operated Selkirk TV and Appliance, and three generations have served in the store since Don and his wife Joyce purchased the business in March 1971.

After Don passed away this year, he left some big shoes for their son David to fi ll. David began working in the store full time when he was 12 years old, and David’s son Andrew has now joined his father and mother, Jayne at Selkirk.

“We couldn't have made it to 40 years without our wonderful staff ,” said Jayne. “Some of them have been with us for a long time and have become our family too. Thank you as well to all of our customers, locals and visitors alike, who have supported us for 40 years."

Selkirk TV and Appliance has a variety of electronic equipment, gad-gets, and accessories.

Customers can browse a selection of fl at screen TVs, audio equip-ment, and computer accessories. They also carry large household appli-ances including washing machines and fridges. The store is able to off er home delivery of large appliances.

Selkirk TV and Appliance has now expanded half of the store to ac-commodate their growing selection of home furnishings, including beds, mattresses, couches, dining room and coff ee tables, wall hang-ings, and small decorative items.

“The furniture has been really well-received since we started bringing it in more than a year ago,” David's wife Jayne said. “Some of the furniture is so popular, it just fl ies out of the store.”

Jayne, who takes care of the furnishings section, as well as looking after bookkeeping for the business, said most of the furniture is made in Calgary or sourced nationally.

“We try really hard to make sure the furniture we stock is all Canadian-made,” she said. “That's important to us.”

In addition to the furniture in-store, customers can make selections from a catalouge, and Selkirk TV and Appliance will order your choice.

Another store specialty: cell phones. Selkirk TV and Appliance is the only cell phone dealer in Invermere and the surrounding area.

“Cell phones are certainly one of the most popular areas of our busi-ness,” David commented.

If customers don’t see a cell phone in the store that interests them, they can order one from the Telus catalogue. Selkirk TV and Appliance is also a Source franchise dealer.

Family-run electronics store celebrates 40 years in business

After years of experience, Selkirk TV and Appliance has expanded their store to include a comfy

selection of home furnishings. Recline in a leather chaise lounge, and see why their furniture choices are so popular.

No matter what a customer’s request, David said he will do his best to make sure everyone feels welcome in the store – something he’s strived for over the years of owning a business.

“One of the best parts of having this store is getting to know peo-ple over the years,” he said. “You serve them for so many years, and you really build up a friendship that way.”

David and his family plan to continue welcoming customers until he retires.

✔ Generous selection of furniture✔ Electronics and appliances✔ 40 years in business

1229 7th Avenue, Invermere250-342-6415

Selkirk TV and Appliance Ltd.

Jayne and David Matheson are celebrating their 40th year in business in downtown Invermere.


Bigger, Better, Closer: Bighorn Meadows ResortWhether you want a beautiful

vacation rental or exquisite fractional ownership experience in a tranquil mountain setting, you’ll fi nd what you’re seeking and more at Bighorn Meadows Resort.

✔ Generous selection of furniture✔ Electronics and appliances✔ 40 years in business

✔ Vacation rentals✔ Full and part-ownership✔ Hot tub and outdoor pool

10 Bighorn Boulevard, Radium Hot Springs877-344-2323 www.bighornmeadows.ca

Bighorn Meadows Resort

This award-winning, fi ve-star getaway en-joys an enviable position on the edge of the Village of Radium Hot Springs. It’s just a short stroll from downtown shops and cafés, sec-onds from the Springs Golf Course — and bet-ter yet, only a two-and-a-half hour drive from Calgary.

“We’re bigger, better and closer than our competitors,” said Marlise Stewart, the Director of Sales and Marketing for True Key Hotels and Resorts. “We off er uncompromising quality in a luxury resort with great value. Our vacation homes off er space, comfort and quality that are ideal for individuals looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun family vacation.

“The value proposition at Bighorn is also extraordinary. When you compare how many hotel rooms it would take to accommodate eight people, versus one of our large, three bedroom vacation home units that can ac-

commodate the same number, the price is unmatched and the in-room amenities and space are far superior.”

Set amongst the Purcell and Rocky Moun-tain ranges, with the Columbia River winding past, Bighorn Meadows Resort enjoys pictur-esque surroundings along the ninth hole of the acclaimed Springs Golf Course, ensuring peace and tranquility throughout the year.

With their generous size and high-end fi n-ish, the suites at Bighorn Meadows pair com-fort and style with functionality. Each of the one, two, and three-bedroom vacation homes come well equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay, including a washer and dryer, fully stocked kitchen, dishwasher, barbecue, patio and exceptional views.

All accommodations, from guest rooms to three-bedroom suites enjoy access to a choice of amenities, including complimentary mov-ies, books and games, an outdoor pool and hot tub, children’s playground and plenty of outdoor space. Vacationers can also take ad-vantage of all the area has to off er with some fantastic packages available through the re-sort, including spa getaways, golf and skiing specials. Just turn the key to your suite, open the door and you’re home.

“This is a really family-friendly resort and we want people to feel as comfortable as possible, as if they are in their own home,” Ms. Stewart explained. “This area off ers something for everyone. We are close to town but remain secluded amid the Springs Golf Course. It’s a short drive to any number of outdoor activi-ties, including ski resorts and golf courses, an abundance of hiking trails and lakes and we are only a short 10-minute drive from all the shops and services that Invermere has to off er.”

As well as being a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts during the spring, summer and fall, the resort enjoys a strong reputation among winter sports lovers, winning an award this winter for Favourite Non-chain Resort in Western Canada from SnoRiders Magazine. Other accolades include two Co-lumbia Valley Business Excellence Awards and a 2010 Certifi cate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.com.

With suites accommodating up to eight people, and multiple purchase options in-cluding three-week fractions, one-eighth, one-quarter, and whole ownership, plan the perfect retreat at Bighorn Meadows Resort and you may just fi nd yourself staying for a lifetime.

Left: This fi ve-star getaway has stunning views of The Springs golf course. Right: The light and spacious suites can accommodate up to eight people comfortably.


✔ Delicious new menu✔ Prime rib, crab and chicken wing specials✔ Fully-licensed bar

5388 Highway 93/95, Fairmont 250-345-2166 - www.hoodooville.ca

Hoodoo Grill

Great food, relaxed atmosphere and spectacular surroundings

With its sizzling new menu, live entertainment, welcoming ambience and tasty specials, it’s

easy to see why the Hoodoo Grill has visitors and locals coming back time and time again.

The popular restaurant is now into its sixth year in business in Fair-mont Hot Springs, off ering a freshly revamped menu which fuses Ca-nadian classics with exotic world fl avours. On summer evenings the smell of barbecuing fi lls the air on the expansive, covered patio, while in the colder months hot and spicy chicken wings off er the perfect antidote to the winter chill.

Starting their fi rst restaurant in 2006 was an adventure for Rory Sin-clair and his business partners. The Hoodoo Grill was born out of TJ’s Pizza and Totem Shop, an eclectic Fairmont institution. Opening on May 18th, 2006 — the long weekend that signals the start of summer in the valley — was a trial by fi re for the new owners. They hit the ground running.

Just one year later, with business booming at the restaurant, they took the leap and bought the campground beside the eatery and the gas station alongside that, creating their very own mini Hoodoo com-munity. It consists of a thriving RV resort with 130 sites and a waiting list to get in, the recently-renovated Centex gas station, and, of course, The Hoodoo Grill.

“I love being a real part of the community and meeting everyone who comes through,” Rory said. “So many people come in and then come back a year later and greet everyone by name. I like to think that we’re a vacation experience for visitors as well as a locals’ favourite.”

Rory and his hard-working team pride themselves in taking on an active role in the valley community. As the founders and organizers of the annual Hoodstock, they created a music festival which became a key part of Fairmont’s summer lineup.

By 2011 the event had grown so rapidly that, with Rory’s blessing, organization was handed over to the Fairmont Business Association, with Rory and team now taking on a smaller role. To accommodate the festival’s success it is now hosted at Coy’s Par 3 golf course, just minutes down the road from its original location beside the tower-ing Dutch Creek Hoodoos, after which the restaurant and RV park are named.

“We have a lot of pride in what we started up,” Rory explained. “We try to support as many local initiatives as we can. We’re part of a com-munity and the whole community benefi ts when things like Hood-stock go well.”

The Hoodoo Grill also sees its share of musical performances, host-ing a jam night each Thursday and live music from local acts and tour-ing artists. Other special nights at The Grill include Prime Rib Sunday, all-you-can-eat crab each Tuesday, and on Wednesdays people queue out the door for the ever-popular wing night.

As well as keeping customers well fed, Rory and his head chef Don-ovan Sawatzky have created a successful apprenticeship program to help young cooks gain industry qualifi cations. Rory and his wife Erika have also just taken on their most important role yet: as new parents. The couple’s fi rst son, Seamus, was born during the fall of 2010.

The Hoodoo Grill is open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Rory Sinclair and Head Chef Donovan Sawatzky like to keep the menu fresh at The Hoodoo Grill, changing it at least twice per year.


✔ Hardware and building supplies✔ Laminate and ceramic tile fl ooring✔ Self-service lumber yard410 Borden Street, Invermere

250-342-6226 - 1-877-342-6226 www.nstarhw.ca

Rona North Star Hardware & Building Supplies

With its friendly, knowledgeable staff , the level of service is second to none. And if they don’t have a particular product in stock, they will be more than happy to order it in for a price comparable to that of the larger, big-box hardware stores found in the city.

Starting out as a planer mill in the late 1950s, the business, owned and operated by longtime valley residents Leo Bukovnik Jr. and his brother Tony Bukovnik, has grown into a two-level, 6,000 square foot hardware and building supply store.

“It’s the people that work here that keep our customers coming back,” said retail hard-ware manager, Chris Corey. “The relationship we have with our suppliers allows us to off er unmatched customer service with all of our products.”

One of the reasons local contractors fre-quent the business is their incredibly large selection of high-grade power tools. Work-ing closely with Makita, North Star Hardware and Building Supplies has the largest selec-tion of power tools in the valley, and is able to provide a high level of service for any tool purchased so you’re never left high and dry on the jobsite.

“Being able to get service and parts for the tools we sell is a high priority for us. We are confi dent that when we sell you a tool we have the service, the parts and the back-ing from the manufacturer if there ever is a problem with the tool. We are the preferred choice for all of your power tool needs.”

Another reason to shop at North Star Hardware and Building Supplies is their ex-panded selection of laminate and ceramic tile fl ooring products. And remember, if it’s not in the store, the staff will be more than happy to special order whatever fi ts your fl ooring needs.

North Star Hardware and Building Sup-plies operates under the Rona umbrella,

People come first at local Hardware Store

Serving the Columbia Valley since 1985, North Star

Hardware and Building Supplies Ltd. has always had people as their number one priority.

which allows them to maintain competitive prices and access to the latest technology, said Chris.

“Because of our close relationship with Rona, there is no delay in getting new prod-ucts here. Anything you can get in the city you can get right here in Invermere as it is released.”

Being affi liated with Rona is a win-win for both the staff and customers, as it allows for pricing on par with stores in the major cen-tres, but it does not limit the store’s ability to order non-Rona products if what the cus-tomer wants isn’t available.

“Rona is truly a Canadian company, and

has a strong commitment to supplying en-vironmentally responsible products,” said Chris. “We are pesticide-free and our lumber comes only from certifi ed forests. We also went to a J grade with our lumber which is a superior product.”

In terms of lumber, North Star Hardware and Building Supplies has been working on improving their self-service lumber yard to make it even easier to fi nd the right product for whatever project you have on the go.

North Star Hardware and Building Sup-plies is open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ryan Donald (left) and Chris Corey are on hand to help with all your hardware and building supply needs at Invermere's Rona North Star Hardware and Building Supplies.


This residential and commercial insulating company, owned and operated by Donna Hazelaar, proudly serves the entire East Koo-tenay region, from Golden to Elkford.

Along with the fi berglass batt and spray foam which Hi Heat has always off ered their customers, they are also able to provide the Full Fill Dense Pac Cellulose System. This sys-tem is something that you might want to consider for your next project when decid-ing what insulating method to use for exte-rior walls, vaulted ceilings, sound partitions

or fl oor cavities. Cavity voids around

electrical boxes, plumb-ing pipes and other areas that are likely to happen with batt insulation are eliminated with this sys-tem because the cellu-lose is machine injected at a high density, elimi-nating air pockets, which can reduce the overall effi ciency of the wall.

This system also seals the walls from air in-fi ltration while providing density which will limit convection — this ensures a consistent R-value and no settling.

The Cellulose Dense Pac System is the most effi cient and environmentally-friendly way of insulating as it is made from recycled paper.

Owner Harold Hazelaar started Screen Solutions in 2010 as a subsid-iary of his exterior railings fi rm, HD Railings Ltd, which has been serving the valley for more than 13 years.

“Our screens are ideal for someone who has a deck, hot tub or patio on their home, or a nice yard and would like a freestanding structure they can relax in without being eaten alive by bugs,” he explained.

Harold will site build a customized screen to fi t any space; from sim-ple screened walls to freestanding, screened rooms. These come with the option of fi xed, permanent walls, or screen curtains, which can be pulled back when not in use.

The environmentally-friendly screens not only provide protection from mosquitoes, wasps and other insects — they also block up to 80

One insulation – many applications

Screen solutions for any outdoor space

Hi Heat Insulating has been helping to keep families warm

for more than 20 years, offering a superior service which allows clients to keep their building projects on schedule.

If you’re seeking an environmentally-friendly, custom-built screen room or enclosure which is perfect for

any patio, hot tub, deck or outdoor space, Screen Solutions have just what you need.

✔ Attics, vaulted ceilings and fl at roofs✔ Floors and crawlspaces✔ Sound-proofi ng

✔ Perfect for any outdoor space✔ Custom built on-site ✔ Block up to 80 per cent of ultraviolet rays

Windermere250-342-7260 — (cell) 250-342-7676www.hiheatinsulating.com / [email protected]

1820 Wilmai Place, Windermere250-342-7656www.screensolutions4u.ca

Hi Heat Insulating.com

Screen Solutions

Hi Heat Insulating can help fi nd the perfect insulation for any space.

Donna Hazelaar

per cent ultraviolet rays from the sun and reduce wind. In addition, the screen rooms retain some heat from outdoor heaters,

keeping the screened area warmer. As all screens are custom designed and built, any tastes, style and

budget can be catered to. Installation takes anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

Call Harold for a consultation today.

You'll get bug and weather protection with custom built screens from Screen Solutions.


✔ The valley's favourite weekly newspaper✔ Publisher of six popular local magazines✔ Distributed across the Columbia Valley

and in Calgary

8-1008 8th avenue, invermere250-341-6299info@cv-pioneer.comwww.columbiavalleypioneer.com

The Columbia Valley Pioneer

The valley’s number-one source for news

Every Friday The Columbia Valley Pioneer hits newsstands

packed with local news, beautiful photography, eye-catching advertisements, compelling human tales and thought-provoking readers letters.

N EW S PA P E R

As one of the few independently owned newspapers in the province, The Pioneer is proud to have the editorial freedom to report without outside infl uence — getting to the heart of every issue aff ecting the valley.

Since the fi rst edition on September 16th, 2004, full-time residents and vacation home owners have turned to The Pioneer for com-munity news, event listings and advertising.

During the past seven years, the news-paper has grown and developed, but the talented eight-person team still proudly upholds the original mandate: to record the valley’s history as it unfolds.

“We believe we can only know the path ahead of us if we understand where our newspaper came from,” said Pioneer Publisher, Rose-Marie Regitnig. “The Pioneer look is en-hanced by the vivid colours and easy-to-read font. We pride ourselves on creative ad design produced by our talented, in-house graphic designers. We never shortchange our atten-tion to quality and design.”

“The Pioneer takes a conciliatory approach to news. We report on local and regional sto-ries that aff ect our community. Our style is re-spectful, compassionate and personal.”

In January 2010, The Columbia Valley Pio-neer was purchased by Robert W. Doull, an experienced newspaper man who owns eight B.C. papers and continues to run The Pioneer as an independent publication. He was drawn to the paper by its original, modern layout and comprehensive editorial coverage, seeing it as a leading light for the industry.

Now The Pioneer is the fl agship newspa-per of Misko Publishing. It is distributed to more than 100 Columbia Valley locations each week, with the 6,400 copies snapped up by eager readers from Spillimacheen in the north to Cranbrook in the south. The newspaper’s

reach also extends to Calgary, where the re-maining 1,600 copies are distributed across the city.

In 2005 The Pioneer earned a printing award from the International Gallery of Superb Printing, and the following year, then-publisher and owner Elinor Florence was named Columbia Valley Entrepreneur of the Year.

On top of providing up-to-the-minute coverage via the newspaper, The Pioneer also has a brand new website this year and in 2011 has extended its reach via social media, including Facebook and Twitter.

“Not enough emphasis can be placed on staying connected with the community and current events and encouraging readers to stay connected to us,” Ms. Regitnig added. “We are the community newspaper. We be-long to each citizen and are only as good as our readership believes we are. We value the input of individuals, district offi cials, politi-cians and community groups.”

In addition to the Columbia Valley Business Magazine, The Pioneer produces 10 publica-tions annually including the Columbia Valley Map Book, The Columbia Valley Dining Guide, The Columbia Valley Homes and Lifestyles Magazine, Radium Hot Springs Magazine, The Columbia Valley Wedding Magazine, and Map Pads for Radium, Invermere and Fairmont.

The Columbia Valley Map Book is the team’s largest and furthest reaching publica-tion, with a distribution of 100,000. Now in its 16th year, the handy, four-season guide to the valley’s mountain paradise is handed out throughout Western Canada and North America. In 2011, The Pioneer also relaunched its popular Columbia Valley Homes Magazine as the new-look Columbia Valley Homes and Lifestyles, to encompass all that the valley has to off er to residents.

Over the upcoming year, The Pioneer team looks forward to growing and adapting the newspaper and all of its publications to meet the changing media needs of the valley.

Pioneer staff , back, left to right: Gayle Engstrom, Offi ce Assistant; Dave Sutherland, Advertising Sales; Kate Irwin, Magazine Editor; Joshua Estabrooks, Reporter. Front, left to right: Rose-Marie Regitnig, Pub-lisher; Shawn Wernig, Graphic Design; Kelsey Verboom, Editor; Emily Rawbon, Graphic Design.

Serving the Columbia Valley since 1988

www.pplanscape.comSee Recent Projects »

Peter Pankovitch [Owner Operator] / w: 250-342-0065 / c: 250-342-1073 / e: [email protected]

Our friendly and experienced crew pride ourselves on providing

a diverse range of specialties.

LANDSCAPING» Hardscape» Retaining walls» Irrigation» Paths» Stairways

TREE NURSERY» Deciduous» Evergreen

MARINE DIVISION» Installation» Repair» Removal» Docks

QUARRY ROCKS» Dimensional Stone » Retaining walls» Landscaping » Ornamental

OUTDOORCARPENTRY» Decks» Fences» Walls» Gazebos

Documents

2011cv-business.web