vol7issue50

December 10, 2010 The Columbia Valley Pioneer • 1

AmAzing Alp RAce

10

Vol. 7/Issue 50 Your Weekly Source for News and Events December 10, 2010

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

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a swiss traditionEach Christmas, Esther Wenger and her daughter, Corinna, carefully decorate their family’s indoor tree with real candles like the ones on this outdoor pine.

The candles and their holders come from Switzerland, where Esther was born. For more, see our special on holiday traditions on Pages 20 and 21.

Photo by Kelsey Verboom

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Kalista Pruden, Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ Program Coordinator, rolls the mystery barrel on shore and drains its not-so-mysterious contents — mud and water.

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Mystery barrel’s contents revealedBy Kate IrwinPioneer Staff

a mystery barrel found in lake Windermere during the annual Shoreline Clean-up in Septem-ber, has been causing a stir in the community since its discovery.

Now, thanks to work from Wildsight, the mys-tery has been unravelled and the barrel safely re-moved from the lake and disposed of.

The full, sealed barrel was discovered by volun-teers Jim Galloway and John ashby during the 15th annual lake Windermere Shoreline Clean-up, or-ganized by Wildsight on Saturday, September 18th.

Because of concerns over the possible contents, Wildsight members decided to leave it in the lake until it could be discovered what was inside.

“Suggestions on how to remove the barrel and offers of help came flooding in to Wildsight,” said Kalista Pruden, Program Coordinator of the lake Windermere ambassadors. “But because it was un-clear what the barrel contained, careful plans to re-move the barrel were made.”

Wildsight, working with the Ministry of envi-ronment and the District of Invermere, determined that the barrel would need to be carefully rolled or lifted out of the lake to avoid puncturing it or dam-aging the shoreline.

The District of Invermere would then be able to determine the contents and dispose of it safely.

But a discovery by Mr. ashby while kayaking in October would solve the mystery.

“The barrel had many small holes in its bottom, visible in the lower water conditions, and therefore could only contain water,” Ms. Pruden explained.

Ms. Pruden, along with Heather leschied of Wildsight, donned their waders, entered the lake and rolled the barrel up onto the shore, emptying it of its contents — water and mud.

The barrel was retrieved by the District of Inver-mere and disposed of at the dump.


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By Samantha StokellPioneer Staff

The Rocky Moun-tain School District has room for improvement when it comes to high school completion rates, says the district’s superin-tendent.

On November 30th, the British Columbia Ministry of education released the six-year completion and Grade 12 completion rates for all the school districts, which dif-fer from graduation rates. Completion rates track stu-dents from Grade 8 to see who graduates in six years with a Dogwood diploma, British Columbia’s second-ary school certificate.

The Rocky Mountain School District falls just below the provincial average of 79.7 percent at 79.3 percent for its three schools in Golden, Invermere and Kimberley.

“any time we’re at 80 percent it means we need to

improve,” said superintendent Paul Carriere. “We will try to focus on the more vulnerable students and con-tinue to work on support systems for the students.”

at David Thompson Secondary School, a num-ber of support systems are in place to assist students in completing high school: seven or eight assistant teachers, two aboriginal assistant teachers, an alter-nate program called STaIRS for students needing as-sistance in school, and Open Doors for students who prefer to work on their own schedule.

The school also has some special programs de-signed especially to engage students such as hockey programs, introduction to trades, and chef training.

“We understand that university is not for every student,” Mr. Carriere said. “We want each student’s curriculum to be relevant and successful to them.”

The numbers from the completion rate report do not include students who move out of the province or to private schools. If the province removed those stu-dents from the total, Rocky Mountain District would have a more successful completion rate, Mr Carriere said.

“More students here migrate to Calgary than other school districts in British Columbia,” Mr. Car-riere said. “In Rocky Mountain it’s just as likely they

will move to alberta rather than to another BC school district. Compared to the provincial average it’s not as horrible at all.”

The Rocky Mountain School District breaks down further to 86.7 per cent for female students; 72.8 per cent for male students; 55.7 per cent for aboriginal students; and 41.7 per cent for eSl students.

“Boys are lower than girls and we are seeking ways to engage boys and make education a priority,” Mr. Carriere said. “The aboriginal population is a smaller sample size and has spiky numbers from year to year.”

Mr. Carriere cites a lack of engagement with the students as another reason they may not complete high school.

“We’re simply not able to engage every student, and they don’t complete within the six years,” Mr. Carriere said. “Maybe they will finish in college at a later date. Many of them do complete; they’re just do-ing it elsewhere.”

The district has an “achievement contract” that sets a goal for all students to graduate with purpose, dignity and options.

“We’re very proud of our students in Rocky Mountain,” Mr. Carriere said. “We will continue to ensure everyone can be successful.”

Student completion rates are below average

Paul Carriere

Area E Director Norm Walter dies suddenlyBy Kelsey VerboomPioneer Staff

The Regional District of east Kootenay Board of Directors is coping with the sudden loss of elec-toral area e Director Norm Walter, who died of an

apparent heart attack on December 6th.after joining the board in 2003, Mr. Walter

served two terms as Vice Chair and one term as Chair.

“Norm had a great deal of respect for the insti-tution he served,” said Greg Deck, former Regional

District Chair. “He thought very highly of the Regional Dis-

trict of east Kootenay, and he was proud of his time there. He had every reason to be proud.”

Story continued on Page 9 . . .


RCMP ReportSubmitted by Staff Sgt. Marko ShehovacColumbia Valley RCMP

• On December 3rd, at 5:45 p.m., officers responded to a two vehicle col-lision with an elk on Highway 93/95, five kilometres north of Canal Flats. A 2003 Cavalier struck the elk first, put-ting it down on the highway. A second car, a 2007 Mercedes, also struck the elk shortly after. Minor damage was done to both of the vehicles, but the drivers were uninjured.

• On December 3rd, at 6 p.m., the Columbia Valley Detachment received a complaint of theft from the J2 Ranch in Canal Flats. A number of tools, a battery charger, gas generator, and two air impact guns were stolen.

• On December 4th, at 3:15 p.m., Columbia Val-ley RCMP received a report of vandalism to a 2004 Black Dodge Ram. The vehicle was parked on 7th Avenue in front of Kootenay Savings when the wind-shield was damaged.

• On December 5th, at 12:07 a.m., officers were called to a residence on Highway 93/95 just north of Invermere to assist B.C. Ambulance. A number of people were located in the residence, many of whom had consumed liquor. A man had fallen and went into convulsions. The man was taken to Invermere and District Hospital.

• On December 6th, at 5:15 p.m., police re-sponded to a disturbance complaint at Wolf Crescent, Invermere. The matter was resolved when one family member agreed to depart the area.

• On December 6th, at 5:40 p.m., Columbia Val-ley RCMP received a report of theft from one of the ice shacks on Lake Windermere. A stove and piping were stolen, along with fishing rods and tackle. A wit-ness reported seeing a blue or black pickup truck near the shack.

Thanks to DTSSMy thanks go to the David Thomp-

son Secondary School Parents Advisory Committee for hosting a drug and alco-hol awareness session on December 7th.

Can’t purger myselfWhen you end up working in a

small town for most of your career you find out that even defence lawyers are not all that bad. We all must make a liv-ing however we can.

Regardless of how friendly they ap-pear, come court time, when people are on the stand providing evidence, friend-ships are put aside.

My friend, Glen Ewan, a good defence lawyer, happened to be cross examining me on the stand. He was doing his best, but his client was going down for the count.

He grilled me with some pretty tough questions, concluded his questioning and started walking back to his seat. Just as he was about to sit down, he turned and announced, “just one more question”.

I don’t like this. I watched a lot of Perry Mason moments where the last question is always a ‘got you’ moment and your case crumbles. Plus I figured I had finished with my evidence and now my guard was down and I was getting ready to step down from the witness box.

I went back to alert and waited for the final ques-tion. Remember, I was still under oath and the Judge was taking note.

“Do you still speed in the Corvette?” Glen asked. As I was under oath I had to think fast. I turned to the Crown lawyer who should have been objecting to this question and I asked her to object to it. She did.

A good lawyer will normally not ask a question that he already knows the answer to and Glen knew the answer; of course I don’t speed in the Corvette. And no, I am not under oath any more.

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Sometimes the best presentsdon't come in a box.

© Tim Hortons, 2010

Your local Tim Hortons invites you to a Free Holiday Skate. It’s our way of saying thank you and happy holidays. Free skating will takeplace on December 12 and December 19 from 5:45-6:45 PM at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

1210 7th Avenue, InvermerePhone: 250-342-9661 • Toll Free: 1-866-342-9661

Gourmet Foods – Affordable!

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Nature’s Gifts and Bookstore

Located in the Radium Hot Springs Information Centre

Ph: 250-347-6525www.friendsofkootenay.ca

Pre-Christmas Sale15% OFF

All Merchandise• Books • Jewellery • T-shirts • Souvenirs

Proceeds from this store help fund research and education projects in Kootenay National Park.


Come and visit us at our new location!1317-7th Avenue, Invermere

(beside McToogles) 250-342-4242Office Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

“The Community is our Family”

Family Resource Centre

• Loaves • Cookies • Muffi ns• Tarts • Cakes

To Place Your Baking Order

Garrett Brash250-342-6746

Garrett ’s Baked Goods

invermere.bclibrary.ca

Wednesday, December 15th

@ 6:00 p.m.

Cookie Exchange

(There will be no bake sale this year)Please sign up and � nd out more info by

calling 250-342-6416 or visit…


With all the festive cheer in the air, planning a way home from holiday parties can sometimes fall to the bottom of the to-do list.

In the Columbia Valley where there’s no evening or weekend public transport, extra forethought needs to take place when a night of drinking is scheduled, whether it’s staying over, walking home or calling a friend or family member.

“You’ve got to have a plan in advance,” said Ser-geant Marko Shehovac of the Columbia Valley RCMP. “It all comes back to a designated driver.”

As of December 7th, the Columbia Valley RCMP had caught 22 impaired drivers, while 2009 had only 10. RCMP members have received training in using handheld breathalyzers, which has resulted in the higher numbers.

In the fall, British Columbia introduced Canada’s toughest impaired-driving laws in an effort to save lives, curb repeat offenders and give police more en-forcement tools. Depending on their blood alcohol concentration, drivers face penalties of up to $4,060 in fines, fees, programs and impoundments.

Barrie Hawes, owner of the Columbia Valley’s only taxi company, expected to see an increase in busi-ness with the stricter laws for drunk drivers in place. In fact, until the start of the holiday season, Mr. Hawes has had fewer calls.

With only one cab currently licensed, Mr. Hawes hears complaints from customers and bar owners that a ride is never available. That’s not true, he said.

“The cab is always available. We don’t turn our phones off until four in the morning,” Mr. Hawes said. “We always do a drive around to make sure no one is left

Prevent drunk driving: plan aheadon the streets if they need a ride home.”

Another service available in the valley is the Fun Van, run by Fun-damental Event Market-ing. The 15-seater van runs on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights as a public shuttle and for private functions.

“Everyone should be able to go out and have a good time and still get home safely,” said Lindsay Johnston, owner of Fundamental Event Marketing. “Sometimes the taxi is overworked and we provide more options.”

Another option is available, but only if you are a member of the British Columbia Automobile Asso-ciation (BCAA). The organization just started a pilot program to provide safe rides home for people feeling unable to drive home.

While the service applies to people with injuries or illnesses, people who have had a bit too much to drink can also use the service.

“The service is intended for people who are not confident in their ability to get home,” said Trace Acres, director corporate communications.

“The service is similar to the one in place if their car breaks down, but now it’s about individuals. If they’re not well, then they’re eligible for a tow.”

In December, RCMP will set up more checkpoints to check for impaired drivers, as manpower allows.

“Regardless of the season, and people have a heightened sense right now, we need our community to be safe year-round,” Sgt. Shehovac said. “It’s impor-tant for us to bear that in mind.”

Barrie HawesColumbia Valley Taxi


Skiing in Kootenay National Park, 1939Connie Rutherford (left) and Ray Crook cross-country skiing at Kootenay Crossing in Kootenay National Park,

1939. “No fancy ski apparel for us,” Ray said. “Just roll your pant legs and pull your long woolen socks over them.” In 1924, Connie had been Ray’s Grade 1 teacher at the Windermere school. When this picture was taken 15 years

later, Connie was married to Bert Rutherford, a warden in Kootenay National Park. If you have any more informa-tion, e-mail us at [email protected]. Photo courtesy of Ray Crook

perspectiveAs the snow fliesBy Kelsey VerboomPioneer Staff

The start of the ski season is an annual reminder of the longstanding relationship between humans and snow. As panorama Mountain village and Fairmont Hot springs resort propel their chairlifts into opera-tion to signal the beginning of the season, snow en-thusiasts across canada are enjoying the economic, environmental, and emotional connections to the white, fluffy substance humans have benefited from for thousands of years.

Beyond shoveling our driveways and scraping snow from our windshields, most of our ties to snow are now tourism-related through skiing, boarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and heli-skiing. How-ever, for thousands of years before the invention of high-speed quads, snowpack helped shape societies’ settlement patterns and influenced modes of transpor-tation. skiing is now a pleasure-seeking activity, but it was once a necessity for successfully hauling food, people, and trade items over snow-covered terrain im-passable by foot.

From an environmental perspective, snow is a transformative substance. it replenishes water sup-plies, reflects sunlight to balance the earth’s energy ab-sorption, and signals animals to hibernate or change their colour; without it, our environment would be out of step.

in addition to an economic and environmental re-lationship with snow, mountain-lovers are emotional-ly captivated by the intricate nature of the fluffy stuff. For centuries, the cryptic beauty of snow has inspired poets, artists, and scientists. physically, snow is one of the smallest and yet most complex substances we in-teract with in everyday life; each individual snowflake is made up of a myriad of ice crystals arranged in a unique and beautifully delicate shape.

This season when you’re ripping down the slopes, enjoy your turns, but also pause to ponder the multi-faceted relationship between humans and the millions of tiny crystals underfoot.

Historical LensHistorical Lens

Operation Christmas Child says thanksDear Editor:

Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, extends a heartfelt thank-you to all who took part in this year’s gift giving to the poorest of the poor children.

From the Invermere collection centre, 342 shoe boxes were shipped to Haiti and to Central and South America.

To all who helped to fill the boxes and to the business and church groups who helped in the distribution of supplies, many thanks. We are also grateful to Greyhound Canada and the bus depot employees who shipped the cartons free of charge.

Frank and Gertie FriesenRon and Dianne DavidsonSamaritan’s Purse Coordinators

is independently owned and operated, published weekly by Abel Creek Publishing Inc., Robert W. Doull, President.Box 868, #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 250-341-6229Email: [email protected]

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

pioneerThe Columbia Valley

Dave SutherlandAdvertising Sales

Kate IrwinReporter

Samantha StokellReporter

Kelsey VerboomEditor

Emily RawbonGraphic Design

Shawn WernigGraphic Design

Rose-Marie RegitnigPublisher/Sales Manager

Katie SalanskiOffice Assistant


LETTERS

Dear Editor:

Yes, valley wildlife present a very se-rious problem in our town. Laurie Les-meister’s letter in the November 19th issue of The Pioneer is right on.

Five years ago we begged council to address the deer problem in our town. Now the deer problem has tripled and the issue is still dragging on.

Other taxpayers are fearing the worst, as we are. Just one month ago, three deer being chased by a dog (even dogs know the deer don’t belong in town) ran through our back yard. Our toddler grandson is very often playing in that part of our yard. We shudder to think of what could have taken place.

Hats off to Councillor Ray Brydon

for admitting the deer are vicious. They are wild animals and should not be al-lowed to roam our town. They have to-tally demolished our outdoor Christmas tree as well.

Please, all of you on the council, don’t allow this deer issue to drag on un-til someone is seriously injured or killed. It is not rocket science to figure out how to put a tasty venison roast on a hungry family’s dinner table. Lets all help out our local food bank during these tough economic times.

Please council, let your conscience be your guide. We have been tax payers for 46 years.

Nester and Lila FodchukInvermere

Let your conscience be your guide

There’s something

new upstairs at McToogle’s.

Open for lunch Tuesday to Saturday

11:30 am - 2 pm

Open evenings Tuesday to Thursday

5 pm - 8 pmDowntown Invermere · 250-341-6868

Quality antique furniture and collectibles from

Canada, Europe and Asia. Architectural items

for home and garden.

Quality antique furniture

Great Christmas Gift Ideas at...

250-342-0707 • [email protected] • www.tepapanui.com Invermere Industrial Park (just off the road to Panorama)

(250) 342-1167

Government Rebates• Furnace Replacements

• Heat Pumps • Fireplaces • Full Heating and Ventilation Systems

Dear Editor,

I remember attending a public meeting at the community centre a few years back to hear some part of the development approval process for Stoneset Development Corpo-ration’s Vista del Lago project.

At the meeting, one of the exec-utives or principals of Stoneset was asked questions by several Inver-mere residents. His arrogance was overwhelming. While those ask-ing questions stood, he remained seated somewhere at the front and virtually dismissed their inquiries as irrelevant. We, at the back, never did know who he was or what he looked like.

Bob Campsall’s condition of constructing the hotel before all the other “pie in the sky” was right on the money, and immediately agreed to by the developer.

My, how times change. Instead of Stoneset doing us humble In-vermere folk a favour by propos-ing grandiose developments (this is Invermere, not Atlantic City), he’s now, hat in hand, humbly trying to change that to which he readily signed his name. The shoe is clearly on the other foot.

If this present council gives up control of this project (or any other, for that matter), it will be the “tail wagging the dog,” again.

The amenities are built first because they show good faith and commitment to completion. It’s got something to do with the develop-ers credibility.

We don’t need anymore un-finished, unsold, empty condos or promises from developers.

Bob NemethInvermere

No more empty promises


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DISTRICT OF INVERMERE914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339

Invermere, BC V0A 1K0Tel: (250) 342-9281 • Fax: (250) 342-2934

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE914 – 8th Avenue, PO Box 339

DISTRICT OF INVERMERE

Cancellation of December 28th, 2010 Regular Meeting of Council

The regularly scheduled Meeting of Council for Tuesday, December 28th, 2010 has been cancelled.

Holiday Schedule for Municipal O� ceThe Municipal O� ce will be closed for the Holidays from

Monday, December 27th, 2010 to Friday, December 31st, 2010. The o� ce will re-open on Monday, January 3rd, 2010.

email: [email protected] | phone: 403.305.7179 www.littlecb.ca

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Rudy Laresser, a former owner of Quality Bakery in Invermere for 17 years, passed away on November 26th at the age of 74.

Rudy bought Quality Bakery from its original owners, Mr. and Mrs. Van Driel, with his mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. Tritcher, in 1964. Rudy and his wife became sole owners in 1971.

Originally from Graz, Austria, Rudy and his fam-ily immigrated to Regina, Saskatchewan in 1953 and the family baked their way west, settling in Invermere.

The bakery was originally located where The Bis-tro is, next to where EK Insurance currently is.

Bread baker Danny McLaughlin started working at Quality Bakery when he was 15 and worked with Rudy for six or seven years before Rudy sold the busi-ness.

“He was quite inspirational and expected you to excel no matter where you went,” Danny said. “He de-manded the best out of you, but was a kind man, too.

Quality Bakery’s former owner passes away

He was a father figure as a boss and easy to talk to.”Danny still works at the bakery today and said

the Quality Bakery was more of a family-run business under Rudy, with his wife, mother, step-father and mother-in-law working in the shop.

Many of the recipes from Rudy’s time have stayed the same and Quality Bakery still uses from-scratch recipes. The one special recipe of Rudy’s that has re-mained a mainstay at the bakery?

“The sausage rolls,” Danny said without hesita-tion. “A lot of the recipes have stayed the same, and if we changed them we tried to do it for the better.”

After selling Quality Bakery in 1981, Rudy and his family moved to Kelowna and started Specialty Bakery in 1983, which his son Chris now runs.

Rudy was a strong competitive athlete in downhill and cross-country skiing, swimming, tennis, cycling, golf and triathlon and played a role in starting the Panorama ski resort.

Family and friends gathered at Specialty Bakery in Kelowna on Saturday, December 4th to celebrate his life. The 4th would have been Rudy’s 75th birthday.


“He was a thoughtful and well pre-pared director at board meetings, and he was also generous with his time and knowledge whenever he could help the staff,” Mr. Deck added.

“Norm was a vocal advocate for the importance of rural directors in local government, and he performed to his own high standard.”

Mr. Walter’s absence will surely be felt at Regional District meetings, said Mayor of Radium, Dee Conklin, who served with him on the Board of Directors.

“Norm will be sadly missed at the meeting table. As a new director, I of-ten looked to Norm for how policy and procedures worked.

“He was a stickler for detail!” May-or Conklin said. “His dedication to the Regional District was apparent in his loyalty to and knowledge of his con-stituents. He will be hard to replace in Area E.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Jane and their family.”

Area G Director Gerry Wilkie from Edgewater was startled by the sudden-ness of Mr. Walter’s death.

“I was shocked,” Mr. Wilkie said. “Norm was just a wonderful individual. He really had the courage of his convic-tions. He spoke eloquently and with a

lot of passion at times, but he also had a wonderful sense of humour.

“He was an excellent Chair of the Board in my opinion.”

Mr. Walter will be “greatly, greatly missed,” Board Chair Scott Manjak said.

For now, Mr. Walter’s place on the Board will be held by the alternate di-rector for Electoral Area E, James West-wood. A byelection will be held this coming spring.

Opening Friday, December 17th

in Radium Hot Springs

Over 100 selections of wines with 30 by the glass

Specialty beer and other spirits

Cheeses, tapas and unique desserts

4873 St. Mary’s Street • 250 341 5938

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 4 to 10 pm • Gift Certificates available

Visit casavino.ca for special wine tastings & events12th Street Invermere • Behind The Book Bar Next to the Post O� ce

Not just the beach... Beach Bound always has lots of unique Christmas Gifts and stocking stuffer ideas at great prices

Of course if you are going south or forgot to bring a hot tub suit we have men’s and

ladies’ and kids’ swimwear available all year

Fuzzy socksLeg WarmersArm Warmers Skull Toques

$1000U N D E R

100s of Pasmina Scarves all $10.00Just Arrived: Betty Boop

Purses and Wallets

Ladies Sweaters • Pj Sets • Slippers • Snow Sleds & Sliders

JUST ARRIVED!Ladies Pajama Sets. Pants and super warm housecoats.

25% OFF THIS WEEKEND ONLY

The largest selection of wood and shell jewelery from Bali in the Valley, all drastically reduced

just in time for Christmas

skipanorama.com

• Free beginner lessons on the Silver Platter and Highway 1• Ride with a pro & pick up some tips and tricks• Learn about our new locals programs for kids and adults • Receive a 10% off voucher on this year’s snow school programsContact Panorama Snow School at 250.341.4242 or [email protected]

LOCALS OPEN HOUSEFree Lessons and Discount Vouchers Dec.11 · 2010

. . . ‘Norm Walter dies suddenly’ continued

Norm Walter


By Kate IrwinPioneer Staff

An Invermere hang-gliding enthusiast has been chosen to represent Canada in next year’s Red Bull X-Alps; a gruelling adventure race across 850km of the European Alps by foot and glider.

Max Fanderl and his partner Penny Powers will undertake this intense race as a team, with Max hik-ing and gliding the course with minimal navigational and gliding equipment, and Penny bringing all food, clothing and supplies by foot and road.

Only 30 athletes are chosen worldwide for each X-Alps, which is held every other year from Salzberg, Austria, through the Alps to Monaco, France.

“The whole race is so unique, it cannot compare to anything,” said Max, who will compete in the race, which begins July 17th, for the third time. “I think what makes it so interesting is there are so few people doing it. You cannot pay to get in, you have to be se-lected. We are very proud to be back in.”

Max was introduced to the competition when the 2007 Canadian athlete, Josh Briggs, dropped out due to injury. With only eight weeks to train, Max took his place and struggled in his first X-Alps outing, but re-turned two years later, with Penny, to claim 13th place.

He has already begun a thorough training regime in the hope of claiming a finish in the top 10.

“I’m thinking now I could be in the top five con-tenders if we work consistently,” Max added. “Last time I was in the top ten with 48 hours to go, we made a safe decision on the route and it cost us a couple of places, but we learned a lot.”

The X-Alps organizers pick the top 30 applicants, with the highest level of flying expertise and physi-cal fitness, to take part. Countries are not guaranteed a spot and are only represented if they have a strong

enough team. Since discovering last month that they were chosen, Penny and Max have started preparing physically and mentally, and planning their route. Athletes must pass through eight check points on their way, choosing a route which allows the most flying time.

Personal trainer and nutritionist Penny has creat-ed a training program, which has already started with on-mountain training at Mount Swansea, yoga and gym workouts and practice flights.

“The challenge of this race is there might be hik-ing for up to ten hours a day, plus flying for four to six hours,” Penny explained. “It’s the ultimate challenge: you do everything yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally, with nobody telling you what to do. You soon find your strengths and weaknesses.”

To follow Max and Penny’s preparation for the 2011 X-Alps visit, www.flyingmax.com

PAP Test and Manicure Night at OPT

PAP Test and Manicure PAP Test and Manicure

850-10th Avenue, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 • 1-250-688-OPTS (6787)

Night at OPT

Options for Sexual Health would like to thank Jeanette Riches, Josie Streicek, Monika Budenholzer of Fusion Wellness Spa for volunteering their time at our PAP Test and Manicure Nights on October 18th and November 15th.

The Options for Sexual Health is operated by a small number of devoted volunteers who give their time to help support people with concerns around their sexual health. There is always a clinic RN present (with quali� cations to give PAP and STI tests, discuss and prescribe birth control and ECP (morning after pill) in addition to do pregnancy tests. We occasionally have a physician present for PAP tests, STI testing and follow up.

Birth control is available at a lower cost than pharmacies and the visits are free for Canadians. OPT is a not for pro� t organization and therefore the fees are kept low for those that are without medical coverage or from out of country.

Clinics are held every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. The clinic runs on the following Tuesday when there is a statutory holiday on the clinic Monday.

N O T I C E

The Certified General Accountants Association of British Columbiagives notice that member Robert David Harvey of Invermere issuspended from membership for a period of 15 months, effectiveNovember 26, 2010, as a result of disciplinary action.

A person suspended from membership is not permitted to holdout that they are a CGA or use the CGA designation or conductbusiness as a public practitioner or member of the CGA Association.

300 - 1867 West Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia V6J 5L4www.cga-bc.org | Tel: (604) 732-1211 or 1-800-565-1211

For details about the Association’s commitment to upholding the highest standards,please visit the Protecting the Public section of our Website.

503B - 7th Avenue, Invermere • 250-342-3922 www.valleyspas.ca • www.arcticspas.com

• Hot Tubs • Water Maintenance • Massage Chairs • Steam Showers • Saunas

104 degrees without a heater!

THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMASSAVINGS EVENT

A new special each day!SAVINGS SANTA WILL LOVE

901 - 7th Avenue, Invermere B.C. 250-342-7171

E n t e r o u r C h r i s t m a s G i v e a w a yt o w i n a $ 1 5 0 G i f t C e r t i f i c a t e

D r a w D e c e m b e r 2 2 n d .

“Building a Legacy for our Valley

Communities”Columbia Valley Community Foundation,

Box 991, Invermere, B.C. V0A 1K0

If you want to give back to your community this holiday season,

the Columbia Valley Community Foundation has gift cards available at Kootenay Savings in Invermere and

Full View Curtains in Radium.

Alpine adventure for local couple

Max Fanderl and Penny Powers, pictured with their chil-dren, Katia and Erik, have just been selected for the gru-elling 2011 X-Alps race. Photo by Kate Irwin


MOVIE REVIEW

PAGE 12

PAGE 19

Out & AboutYour Weekly Guide

to What’s Happening Around the

Columbia ValleyPage 13

ART UPDATE

What’s happening in theColumbia Valley

Page 11

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar scene • entertainMent • PerforMance arts

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

What does ARTmean to you?

Concert at PynelogsA Sister Girl Country ChristmasSaturday December 18th at 7 pm Tickets at Dave’s, Essentials & One-Hour Photo

festiveflautist

Flautist Thomas Clare and the DTSS High School Band

brought some Christmas cheer to the streets of downtown

Invermere during Super Sunday on December 5th.

Photo by Samantha Stokell


Reviewed by Kate Irwin

This fourth and final film in the immensely pop-ular Shrek series finds Shrek suffering from an ogre-sized mid-life crisis.

Life is comfortable with his princess-ogre wife and their cute little green babies, but Shrek (Mike Myers) is stuck in a rut. He longs for the carefree bachelor days when the locals cowered in fear at a single roar.

So when the Mephistophelean mischief maker, Rumpelstiltskin (Walt Dohrn) offers him a deal for a whole day of unrestrained ogredom, in exchange for a single day from Shrek’s childhood that he won’t even remember, he signs on the dotted line.

Oops. It turns out these magical contracts are more fiddly than expected. Our swamp-dwelling hero

is thrown into an alternate universe where he never existed, Fiona (Cameron Diaz) was never rescued and Rumpelstiltskin rules the Kingdom of Far Far Away with an iron fist.

Borrowing thematically from It’s a Wonderful Life and the Back to the Future films, this fourth movie in the Dreamworks franchise returns to form after a decidedly average showing from Shrek the Third.

While it doesn’t recapture the wit of the first two films, Shrek Forever After tries a different formula. Taking a bit darker, more dramatic turn gives less em-phasis on laughs and more on a character-driven plot.

An unfortunate side effect of this Shrek-centric plot is the elbowing aside of the much-loved Donkey (Eddie Murphy) and Puss (Antonio Banderas). In this alternate reality Donkey is even more clueless and the

entry of a fat and pampered Puss is frankly hilarious, but the audience is left wanting more from the duo.

However, the silver-tongued Rumpelstiltskin as the villain of the piece almost makes up for it. He makes an entertaining bad guy, with a different wig for each mood — although the “angry” wig does make him look like a troll doll.

For a series known for its comic pop culture refer-ences, this film instead references the earlier movies, providing a lot of laughs as the viewer — and Shrek — find out what could have been.

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar scene • entertainMent • perforMance arts

Movie Review: Shrek Forever After

RATING: 8.5 OUT OF 10 HEADS

Gone Hollywood’s TOP FIVE OF THE WEEK

1 Knight and Day2 Expendables3 The Sorcerer’s Apprentice4 Grown Ups5 Eat Pray Love

Last Week’s Top 5 RentalsGoneHOLLYWOOD

V I D E O

New Release December 4

New Releases December 71 Twilight – Eclipse

1 Inception2 Shrek – Forever After3 Passenger Side

Previous V i e w e d

DVD B L O W O U T !

We are blowing out some of our Previously Viewed

DVD’s

All PV DVD’s priced at

$6.99 are now

$250/each

New Releases December 141 The Other Guys2 Despicable Me3 A-Team4 Cyrus5 Nanny McPhee Returns

Valley Voices

Christmas Concertwith The Children’s Chorus

Christ Trinity ChurchFriday, December 10th at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 11th at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: Adults $10.00 • Students $5.00Available at: Essentials and One Hour Photo in Invermere

N’Deco in Radium Hot Springs or Smoking Water Cafe in Fairmont Hot Springs

OPEN 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. DailyLocated in the Best Western Invermere Inn

1310 - 7th Ave. • Invermere • 250-342-9246

NEW HOURS: 2 pm – 2 am daily

Kitchen open till midnight! (1 AM Thursday, Friday & Saturday)

SAT., DEC. 11 • 8 PM • NO COVER!

Monday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5 CHEESEBURGERTuesday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mexi Food & DrinksWednesday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pizza NightThursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wings & Jug NightFriday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steak & PrawnsSaturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Steak & PastaSunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20 Big Wheel Special Extra Large 2 Topping Pizza!

Superstar karaokewith Shannon, Every Thursday

2 trips to…22

NEW YEAR’S GIVE AWAY:


Submissions must be received by the Monday prior to publication. We may only run an entry for two weeks prior to the event. Please

limit your submission to 30 words. Priority is given to one-off events, so weekly events may run rarely.

Toby Theatre Closed until December 27th.

• December 27th - 30th, 7:30 p.m.: Megamind.A PIONEER THANK YOU to Ron and Elizabeth Peters for sponsoring our Christmas Ornament

contest this month!

Friday, December 10th: • Opening Day for downhill skiing at Panorama Resort. For info: 250-342-6941. • R.K. Heliski and Heliplex opening. For info: 250-342-3889.• 6 p.m.: Invermere Midget Female Hockey Tournament starts at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. Tournament goes until Sunday at 4:30 p.m. For info call Louise: 250-342-6767.• 7:30 p.m.: Valley Voices Christmas Concert with The Children’s Chorus at Christ Church Trinity. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. • Saturday, December 11th:

• 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: The Legion Christmas Tea ‘N’ A Fair. Christmas Tea, Cookie Walk, Square Walk and Craft Tables. For info: 250-688-0640. • 12noon - 4 p.m.: Jewelry demonstration with Leslie Rowe-Israelson at Effusion Art Gallery. For info: 250-341-6877.• 7:30 p.m.: Valley Voices Christmas Concert with The Children’s Chorus at Christ Church Trinity. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Sunday, December 12th:

•11 a.m.- 2 p.m.: 4th Annual Pet Photos with Santa at Bow-Wow Meow. Cat food, litter and toy

donations welcome. For info: 250-341-7888.• 12 noon- 3 p.m.: 3rd Annual Santa and Sleigh Ride event at Smoking Water Cafe in Fairmont. Santa will be available for photos. All proceeds go to the Food Bank. For info: 250-341-7774.• 5:30 p.m.: Rotary Seniors’ Christmas Dinner at the Invermere Inn. For reservations: 250-342-5566 or 250-342-4242 Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.• 6:30 p.m. Knights of Columbus Live Nativity Presentation at the Catholic Church. Refreshments served.

Monday, December 13th:

• 1:30 p.m.: Carpet Bowling for Invermere Seniors 50 Plus Club. For info: 250-342-9893.• 6:30 p.m.: Duplicate Bridge for Invermere Seniors 50 Plus Club at 1309A 14th Street. For info: 250-342-9893.

Tuesday, December 14th:

• 1:30 p.m.: Floor Curling for Invermere Seniors 50 Plus Club at 1309A 14th Street. For info: 250-342-9893.• 7 p.m.: Bands in Concert at the David Thompson Secondary School gym. Silver collection at the door. Donations to the food bank welcome.

Wednesday, December 15th:

• 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Techology Today and Tomorrow at Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Member $12, non-members $15. For info: 250-342-2844• 6 p.m.: Christmas Cookie Exchange at the Invermere Public Library. Please call: 250-342-6416 to register or visit invermere.bclibrary.ca.

Thursday, December 16th:

• 1 p.m.: Drop in for bridge and other games at Invermere Seniors Plus 50 Club at 1309A 14th Street. For info: 250-342-9893.• 6 - 8 p.m.: Holiday Dessert Party at Invermere Library. Closing day of Christmas silent auction.For info: 250-342-6416.

Friday, December 17th:

• Opening Day for downhill skiing at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Lift ticket includes a free visit to the

hot pools. For info: 250-345-6000.

Saturday, December 18th:

• 9 a.m.: Classic Learn to Ski Clinic at Greywolf Nordic Centre or Nipika Mountain Resort. To register e-mail: tobycreeknordic.ca.• Jumps and Bumps and Youth Freestyle programs start with Panorama Mountain Freeride Club. For info: 250-342-9082.• 11 a.m.-3 p.m.: Kimberley artist Christine Stufano Simpson paints at Effusion Art Gallery. For info: 250-341-6877.• 7 p.m.: Christmas Concert at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. A Sister Girl Country Christmas. Tickets available at The Book Bar and One-Hour Photo. For info: 250-342-4423.• 7:30 p.m.: Columbia Valley Rockies versus Kimberley Dynamiters at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. For info: www.rockieshockey.com.

Sunday, December 19th:

• 9 a.m.: Skate Ski Learn to Ski Clinic at Greywolf Nordic Centre or Nipika Mountain Resort. To register e-mail: tobycreeknordic.ca.• 7 p.m.: Blue Christmas Service at Christ Church Trinity.

• Sunday, December 27th:

• Opening of Whiteway at Lake Windermere.• • • • Invermere Library hours:

• Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.• Wednesday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Radium Library hours:

• Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m. • Wednesday: 1 - 4 p.m.• Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m. • Saturday: 10 a.m. - noon.• Sunday: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Canal Flats Community Library hours:

• Tuesday: 7- 8:30 p.m. For info: 250-349-5360

Invermere Thrift Store hours:

• Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.• Friday and Saturday: 1 - 4 p.m

Out & AboutPlease call 250-341-6299

or e-mail us at [email protected] enter your event in our FREE listings.

Music • visual arts • dining • Bar scene • entertainMent • perforMance arts

Maxwell Realty Invermere/Panorama O� ce: (250) 341-6044 • Fax: (250) 341-6046 • www.maxwellrealtyrealtyinvermere.ca

DANIEL ZURGILGEN250-342-1612

GEOFF HILL250-341-7600

GLENN POMEROY250-270-0666

STEVE WILLIAMS250-342-1031

SCOTT WALLACE250-342-5309

926-7th Avenue, Invermere, BC

(next door to Fairmont Goldsmith)


Dining 250-342-6560 • Golf 250-342-0562 • www.eagleranchresort.com • Toll Free 1-877-877-3889

Come join us for New Years EveMeet Chef Marc LeBlanc while enjoying

a truly unique dining experience! Seating from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Reservation required.

Open Wednesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. to Close – Saturday and Sunday

from 10:00 a.m. to Close

Sunday Brunchfrom 10:00am to 1:00pm

Join us for New Years EveJoin us for New Years EveJoin us for New Years EveJoin us for New Years EveJoin us for New Years EveJoin us for New Years Eve

2 for 1Appy Hour

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily

Holiday happenings at a glance‘Tis the season, and the valley is chock full of fes-

tive activities. Here are just a few seasonal events to attend:

Music for foodMusicians from around the valley will gather at

the Lakeside Pub on Sunday, December 19th for the 10th annual Musician Food Bank Benefit.

The annual event collects food and monetary donations for the Columbia Valley Food Bank in ex-change for a lively concert featuring about 20 of the valley’s most talented musicians.

Each musician volunteers their time to play a few songs, and money is collected between acts in appre-ciation of their music, said one of the benefit’s orga-nizers, Bill Cropper.

“So, bring lots of small bills, like 50s and 100s,” he said, laughing.

The event usually raises more than $5,000, which the musicians are hoping to top this year.

Bill recommends arriving early, especially if con-cert-goers are planning to eat while they watch.

“The room is always totally packed,” he said.For more information, call Bill at 250-342-3264.

Pet photos with the big guyBring your pets of all shapes and sizes to pose for

photos with Santa in support of the Invermere Com-panion Animal Network, a volunteer-run, no-kill shelter.

The photo shoot doesn’t discriminate against pet types. During the three previous years the fundraiser has happened, photographers have captured every-thing from chickens and snakes to puppies posing with Santa.

The photos will be held on Sunday, December 12th at Bow-Wow Meow in Athalmer from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cat food, litter, and toy donations are wel-comed. For more information, call 250-341-7888.

Santa Claus visit and sleigh ridesA sprinkling of Christmas magic is coming to

Fairmont’s Smoking Waters Café on Sunday, Decem-ber 12th, with a visit from Santa Claus, sleigh rides, cookie decorating and mugs of hot chocolate.

Santa will be posing for photos at a cost of $10 and children and adults alike can enjoy a free sleigh ride courtesy of Diamond B Outfitting.

Inside will be a large table of free cookies to deco-

rate, steaming mugs of hot chocolate (also provided at no cost) and live Christmas carols, performed by Rachel Brand.

“Where we live is such an obviously picturesque, Christmas setting, we felt it is the perfect opportunity to enjoy it,” said Stephanie Clovechok, one of the ca-fé’s owners. “I hope people come along to experience the vibrant community spirit and to enjoy some time together outside of school or work.”

The third annual Santa Visit and Sleigh Rides, from 12 to 3 p.m. on December 12th, will raise mon-ey and donations for the Columbia Valley Food bank. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food or cash donations for the Mesenchuk family.

Santa’s CabinOn Saturday, December 11th and 18th, Santa

Claus is taking a break from toy making to enjoy time with the boys and girls visiting his Santa’s Cabin at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Santa will be posing for free photos, aided by his helper Candy Cane. The cabin is located between the Main Lodge and Hot Pools, stop by the front desk for directions.


By Kelsey VerboomPioneer Staff

The ‘ploom, ploom, phoomp’ of 20 low brass instruments will resonate through the aisles of Home Hardware in an unconventional Christmas carol performance during the first ever Tuba-Christmas in the valley.

The one-word instrumental phenom-enon has spread through North America since it began in New York’s Rockefeller centre in December of 1974 when 300 tuba players crowded the ice rink to hon-our the renowned tuba master, William Bell. The original TubaChristmas fol-lowed a book of carols written by Alec Wilder, and the same arrangement of songs is still played at every TubaChrist-mas worldwide.

On Saturday, December 18th at 2 p.m., a group of about 20 tuba and eu-phonium (an instrument that produces a sound slightly higher than a tuba, but lower than a trumpet) players will gather in the holiday section of Home Hardware in Invermere to join their instru-ments in a deep melodic force never before heard in the valley.

The 30-pound brass wind instruments normally play the lowest notes in an orchestra, but as Tuba-Christmas demonstrates, the brass beauties can sustain sweet harmonies all on their own.

“Tubas are usually just the base line, but we can play melody too,” local tuba player John van de Walle from Invermere said.

Invermere’s TubaChristmas will be composed of players who are traveling from Creston, Cranbrook, Kimberley, and even Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to join lo-cal musicians in the holiday performance.

The whole ensemble will travel to Fort Steele on December 19th to perform at the historic settlement at 12 noon.

DTSS Bands in Concert

TuesdayDecember 14th

DTSS Gym7:00 pm

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

a food bank donation as well!

Thank you for your support!

La Cabina RistoranteJoin us for Family New Year’s Eve

Bu et Dinner and DanceCocktails at 6:30 p.m.Dinner at 7:30 p.m.

Party favours – Champagne – Midnight SnacksD.J. – Fireworks – Balloons

Party Only – $70 Single, $140 DoubleParty and Room – $135 Single, $200 Double

At the Prestige Inn, RadiumPhone: (250) 347-2340

La Cabina Ristorante

•All inclusive. Taxes and gratuity included. Children Welcome.

Auto Wreckers & Dismantlers

SAVE $$$ ON USED PARTS!

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Drop O� Used Tires and Batteries

Bus: 250-342-4400Cell: 250-342-1700

Drop O� Used Tires

SAVE $$$ with our VIP Card

30% OFF ALL TOOLS

STOREWIDE!

DECEMBER SPECIAL!

MondayCarpet Bowling . . . . . . 1:30 pm Duplicate Bridge . . . . . 6:30 pm

TuesdayFloor Curling . . . . . . . . 1:30 pm

ThursdayDrop In (Bridge & Other Games) . . . 1:00 pm Hot Lunch (Every 2nd Thurs .) . . 12 noon

Friday Duplicate Bridge . . . . . 1:00 pmCrib or Whist . . . . . . . . 7:30 pm

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Invermere Seniors 50 Plus Club1309 A 14th Street, Invermere – Come and enjoy

Call Jayne at 250-342-3160 www.itsawrapgiftbaskets.ca

Just give me a call,

Call Jayne at 250-342-3160

Christmas Gifts?It’s easy as 1•2•3

1. Write your Christmas gift basket list. (Check it twice)

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

Christmas Gifts?It’s easy as 1•2•3

www.itsawrapgiftbaskets.ca 250-342-3160 250-342-3160

CALLTODAY!

Selkirk TV & Appliance

1229-7th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6415

Win a LoveseatCourtesy of Selkirk T.V. & Appliance LTD. With a purchase of $50.00 enter your name to win our loveseat. Regular price $599.00

just in time for Christmas.Draw date Dec. 18, 2010

12% O� all in stock furniture and accessories Saturday, Dec 4th only

Tubas will rumble to holiday tunes at Home Hardware

BRASS WITH CLASS — Four local musicians will join the holiday tuba ensemble on December 18th and 19th. From left: Kevin Dunk from Cranbrook on the tuba, Ray Picton of Windermere and Laurel Ralston of Kimberley with their euphoniums, and John van de Walle of Invermere on the tuba. Photo submitted


Seasonal Regional

InspirationalInspirational

Join us for• Dinner• Tapas

& Wine• Dessert

& Coff ee or

• Chef’s DailyCreations

“Beautiful new ambience.

Perfect celebration

spot!”Carole & Jacqueline

River Gems

Allergy Conscious

Gluten Free

Open Tuesday - Sunday

For Reservations Call:

250-342-0606Formerly Portabella722 – 13th Street,

Invermere

Celebrating 100 years of the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary


This year the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary is celebrating 100 years of service to the community: a century of caring.

The Auxiliary has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1910, when it was founded to offer support to the two-bed Windermere District Hospital in Wilmer.

The first meeting to form what would be known as the Invermere Ladies’ Auxiliary was held in Wilmer, then the most active lo-cal community, on November 22nd, 1910.

A group of seven local women gathered, electing new valley resident, Mrs. B. G. Hamilton, as their first chairperson.

She would become a key figure in form-ing and shaping the first local Hospital Aid group, which would help provide furnishings and medical supplies for the tiny hospital.

“The building was really only a better class shack,” Mrs. Hamilton described in a report to the Auxiliary in 1932. “It contained two beds of a very decrepit nature with straw filled ticking for mattresses, a broken down

rocker and old chair with one legless table on which there was an old tin lamp.

“There were no conveniences, not even running water, and water was brought from the well in barrels.”

The first duty for the newly-formed group was to buy new beds for the building.

With their first basket social, held at the schoolhouse in Wilmer, the ladies set in mo-tion the work which continues to this day, to improve the stay of anyone needing local hospital facilities.

Much to their surprise the social raised not only enough to buy the beds, but to fully equip them as well.

The next year the group followed the care facility’s move to the former Union Ho-tel building, gaining their own piece of land in Invermere in June 1911.

From there they held dances, bazaars and social events, raising money to equip the new hospital, which was under construction.

By its opening in 1914, the ladies of the Health Auxiliary had fully equipped the entire 12-bed facility. Although still basic by modern standards, the new hospital was

a significant step forward for health care in the valley, with an operating room and X-ray machine.

The public ward rates at the hospital were $10 per week, with semi-private rooms fetching $12 and private rooms costing $14.

The hospital was almost forced to close at one period during the First World War due to lack of staff. The Auxiliary helped to arrange for a nurse to come in and assisted her in keeping the facility open.

But by 1937, the community had out-grown the small building and the hospital moved once again, this time to a new loca-tion beside Lake Windermere, in the build-ing now known as Pynelogs Cultural Centre.

The site was donated by former Lieu-tenant Governor of British Columbia, Ran-dolph Bruce, who had built it as a home for him and his wife, Lady Elizabeth Bruce.

Over the next few years, separate Health Care Auxiliaries started to form in Brisco, Edgewater, Athalmer, Windermere, and Fairmont, as these communities grew.

Continued on next page...

HELPING HANDS — Some of the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary’s volunteers proudly display their new bibs and the updated Thrift Shop sign, bought to celebrate 100 years of the Auxiliary. Left to right: Mariane Comis, Liz Ewaniuk, Gwen Witt and Betty Kilpatrick. Photo submitted


...Continued from previous page

In 1953 the Invermere Auxiliary, by then known as the Invermere Senior Ladies’ Aid, gained a coun-terpart when the younger women in the community formed the Junior Ladies’ Aid to assist them.

The groups had a huge task ahead: the building which houses the current Invermere and District Hos-pital had been under construction since 1951, and they were working to fully equip it.

“Fund raising has been of prime importance,” said a report from the Junior Aid from that period. “Spon-soring a candidate in the Queen Contest for the Fall Fair has been an annual project. The annual Pancake Supper has become most popular and the main source of revenue.”

The local auxiliaries worked tirelessly to equip the new hospital, holding community meals, dances, raffles and sales. The two Invermere Auxiliaries made numerous donations, from tea towels, to typewriters, to bone saws needed for the new operating theatre.

By the opening in November 1956, the six local hospital aid groups had provided the Windermere District Hospital with tens of thousands of dollars worth of medical equipment and furnishings.

Their good work continued until the final meeting

of the Invermere Senior Ladies’ Hospital Aid on May 27th, 1965, after 54 years of service.

Only one original member of the group remained, the president and life member of the Auxiliary, Mrs. W. H. Cleland. With a final donation toward the pur-chase of an ambulance, the Senior group disbanded.

Over the years membership had fluctuated from 30 members at their peak to five toward the end of their existence. The Junior Aid group took up their mantle, introducing a Candy Striper program to the hospital the following year.

“We used to meet in the hospital underneath one of the wards,” said Marge Stringer, who joined the In-vermere Auxiliary in 1965 and is one of its longest serving members. “I remember going door to door to sell $1 memberships. We also made pies and sold them up at Fairmont, and held pancake suppers. They got the idea of a thrift shop at around the same time.”

The thrift shop, which was started in 1965, would prove to be one of the Auxiliary’s biggest money spin-ners. As it expanded, so too did the work done by the Invermere Auxiliary, which began to offer aid to people in other areas within the health field, while continuing with their primary task, of helping the local hospital.

They would continue to support the hospital through its 1972 expansion, when a new wing was

built, increasing the capacity to 31 patients.Nowadays the Auxiliary supports numerous local

organizations including Columbia House, the Family Resource Centre and the Columbia Valley Food Bank, and provides high school and college scholarships.

“We also fund the flu clinics, Options for Sexual Health, and sell cookies for the Tim Hortons’ Smile Cookie Campaign, among other things,” said current Auxiliary President, Kerry Jopp.

“There is so much community help as well. People see the benefit because everyone at some point will make use of one of the projects we are involved with.”

Volunteers spend countless hours in the Thrift Shop, sorting donated items, pricing and keeping the shelves stocked. As well, the organization has recently hosted the Health Care Auxiliary area conference and remains active throughout the year with fundraisers like the recent Sensational Seconds Fashion Show.

From bringing the hospital newspapers to helping refurbish wards, the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary looks forward to continuing the 100-year tradition of supporting valley health care, Ms. Jopp said.

“We really appreciate all of the donations we get to the Thrift Shop and,” she added, “we couldn’t func-tion without such amazing support from the commu-nity and our members.”

HOSPITAL HISTORY — (clockwise from top left) The 1914 Invermere Ladies’ Auxiliary members; Candy Stripers, Michelle Reice and Leslie Anne Paprocke with the Director of Nursing, Audrey Thornton in the late 1960s; the Windermere District Hospital building, which was used from 1914 to 1937; Betty Eacrett is presented with her past president pin by Mildred White from Kimberley, who gave a talk on the Kimberley Thrift Shop which spawned the idea of a similar store for Invermere; the original Windermere District Hospital in Wilmer, built in 1900, with nurse Ethel Cleland standing outside. Photos submitted


YOUR MONEYGift giving in Canada

Many Canadians still believe that we have a gift tax or that they can only gift a certain amount of mon-ey or assets to their friends or family without taxation.

Both of these beliefs are false, provided that a Ca-nadian gives money or assets to an adult who is not their spouse. Canada does not have a gift tax and as long as attention is paid to capital gains taxation and attribution rules, those who gift can essentially do as they please.

Is there a limit on gifts?Since Canada does not have a gifting tax, there is

not a limit as to how much Canadians can gift to those close to them. It doesn’t matter whether you want to gift $1,000, a million dollars, or more.

Who can I gift to?A Canadian can give gifts to any Canadian resi-

dent as long as they are not their spouse or a minor child. If they gift to a spouse or minor child then they can encounter taxation issues.

If a gift of money is given to a spouse, then any interest, capital gains or losses, or dividends will be attributed back to the gift giver.

If a gift of money is given to a minor child (yours or anyone else’s) then any income earned by the funds,

but not capital gains, will remain the responsibility of the gift giver.

Capital GainsAny Canadian considering gifting should be aware

of capital gains rules. You cannot avoid or delay capital gains by gifting.

When you gift an asset such as a property, farm, stock or other asset, it is considered to be disposed of at fair market value. This may trigger capital gains tax at that moment.

Gifting to minorsThere are a couple of ways that parents can gift

money to their children without worrying about at-tribution rules. Parents can gift the Child Tax Benefit or the Universal Child Care Benefit they receive for their children.

By investing this tax benefit money in the names of their children, any income earned will generally not be attributed back to the parents.

Parents and other adults such as grandparents can also gift money to minor children through the use of a Registered Educational Savings Plan (RESP).

The income earned on money which is deposited into a RESP will not be attributed back to the parents,

unless the child does not go on to attend post-second-ary education.

Lend rather than giftWhile in most cases you cannot gift outright

to your spouse or minor children without worrying about attribution rules, you can lend money to them.

As long as you carefully track the money that you loan to your spouse or children and charge them in-terest as prescribed by the Canada Revenue Agency, attribution rules will not apply on returns they earn above and beyond the interest rate of the loan.

With today’s low interest rates this may be a viable solution for those who want to gift money to children or spouses. Even though the prescribed interest rate changes every quarter, once you set a rate for your loan, you do not have to change it. However it is im-portant to note that interest on the loan has to be paid back no less than 30 days after the end of the year.

Speak to your accountantGifting and attribution rules can be tricky to get

right. If you are considering gifting assets, always seek the advice of your accountant. When done correctly, gifting assets can be very rewarding and very tax ef-ficient for your current finances and for your estate.

Insurance products and services are o� ered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency (a licensed life insurance agency and a� liate of Manulife Securities) by Manulife Securities Advisors licensed as life agents. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company is the sole issuer of the Manulife GIF Select insurance contract which o� ers the IncomePlus bene t and the guarantor of any guarantee provision therein. Manulife Securities Incorporated is a member CIPF.

Brendan DonahueBCOMM, FMA, CIM

Senior Investment Advisor

Insurance Agent250-342-2112

Sara WorleyInvestment Advisor

Insurance Agent250-342-6441

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Cashable 1.35%90 days 1.50%1 yr 1.75%2 yr 2.15%3 yr 2.45%4 yr 2.80%5 yr 3.05%*Rates subject to change without notice.

Giving Back to the Community by

Supporting Youth Sports & Activities

Our offi ce will proudly donate a minimum of $100 or 10% of

your annual premium to a youth organization of your choice when

you purchase a life or critical illness insurance contract from any of our 15 insurance providers.

(Includes term insurance on your mortgage)

Insurance products and services are o� ered through Manulife Securities Insurance Agency (a licensed life insurance agency and a� liate of Manulife Securities) by Manulife Securities Advisors licensed as life agents. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company is

Brendan DonahueBrendan Donahue

Senior Investment

Insurance Agent

Investment AdvisorInsurance Agent

Giving Back to the

your annual premium to a youth organization of your choice when

you purchase a life or critical illness insurance contract from any of our 15 insurance providers.

(Includes term insurance on your mortgage)


I N V E S T M E N T S | R E T I R E M E N T P L A N N I N G | I N S U R A N C E

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250.342.5052 | Office877.342.5052 | Toll Free877.719.7927 | Toll Free Fax250.270.0270 | Cell

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526B – 13th Street PO Box 429 Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 www.cmkwealth.com

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A Reminder from theChristmas Bureau of the

Columbia ValleySubmit your request for a hamper by calling

(250) 342-6752 or (250) 342-6789 by December 10th.

Phone in your hamper sponsorship to (250) 342-6752 or (250) 342-6789, or email hgho @

telus.net or [email protected] by December 6th.

Donate an Angel gift for a child (0-12) at Dairy Queen or a gift for a child (0-12) or senior (65+) at

The Book Bar by December 12th.

Sponsors, please remember to deliver your hampers to the Invermere Community Hall on Friday,

December 17, 8:00 am to 12:00 noon.

Applicants, pick up hampers and gifts on Friday, December 17, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Remember, if you are unable to come to the Community Hall, write a note to

authorize someone else to pick up your hamper. Volunteers will not be available for next day pick up.

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Patients on the tenth floor of Calgary’s Foothill hospital have some respite from blank walls thanks to an art collector in Windermere.

Gail Berg, a photographer, art collector and a for-mer B.C. Forest Service plant biologist, initiated an art drive that resulted in over 30 pieces. The artwork now hangs in Unit 102, the General Surgery/Oncol-ogy Surgery wing, which includes units for Cardiac Intensive Care, PCI/Angioplasty, Stroke and Spine .

After spending a month on the tenth floor recov-ering from abdominal surgery and staring at the bare walls, Gail wanted to provide other patients with some relief from their thoughts.

“Everyone in that ward has had some serious surgery and the minimum stay is 10 days,” Gail said. “Without the art, they don’t have anything else to think about.”

Following an article in The Pioneer this past July, Gail began receiving donated artwork the very next day. Kathleen Turnbull, a Calgary-based painter who spends time in Invermere, donated a painting depict-ing an olive tree in Italy.

“We’ve spent some time in hospitals with nothing to do and nothing to look at,” Ms. Turnbull said. “This was a huge undertaking by Gail and I admire her for it.”

The donated works include painting, photos, prints and even embroidery. Gail ensured the works didn’t have titles or any identifying markers so people could use their imagination while looking at the photos.

For patients and staff in the hospital — where

Calgary hospital decorated thanks to artist donations

budgets don’t usually cover interior decorating — the artwork has made a huge difference.

“We now have the best-decorated unit in the place,” said Laura McMynn, manager for Unit 102.

The artwork also has some medical benefits. The photos, paintings and embroidery can lift morale and remind staff and patients that there’s something out-side the hospital walls.

“Half the battle for healing is a patient’s attitude,” Ms. McMynn said. “If a patient is feeling positive and content and just feeling better, that’s a huge health benefit.”

Gail has stopped collecting artwork for the hospi-tal, but encourages anyone who wants to make a do-nation to drop it off at the unit in Calgary.

HEALTHY ART - Kathleen Turnbull’s Olive Tree - Ruby now hangs in Unit 102 of the Foothills Hospital.

Photo submitted by Laura McMynn


Holiday traditions from around the world

Charles and Shirley Mackey moved to the valley in 1944. They have been married for 60 years and have six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. They live in Dry Gulch.

December in South Africa usu-ally brings temperatures of around 38 degrees Celsius, so most families head to the beach or to the pool for their holidays, Carel said.

“If you’re from the countryside like I am, you go to the ocean for a week or two and do all the things you are not able to do during the school term.”

Carel remembers being picked up from school on his way to vacation.

“Somewhere along the road we would pull over and have a lunch packed by my mom. We would have cold meats, sandwiches, and hard-boiled eggs with coffee from a flask,” he said. “Then we would play a game to see who could spot the ocean first as we neared the coast.”

On Christmas Eve, Carel’s family usually gathers for a feast he describes as “endless,” before attending church on Christmas morning.

“Traditionally, families come to-gether on Christmas for a big Christ-

mas Eve dinner: one year with the whole family together, and the next with everyone away with their wives’ and husbands’ families.”

At Carel’s house, the Christmas Eve feast begins with a tuna or prawn cocktail, followed by roast chicken, potato salad, leg of lamb, three-bean salad, pumpkin tart, corn tart, veg-etables, four different desserts, and tongue with mustard.

“It’s usually a cow’s tongue,” Carel said. “It gets cooked whole by semi-steaming and boiling it — almost like when you smoke something — then you let it cool completely and put it in the fridge. You can then cut it in nice thick or thin slices, depending on how you want to use it.”

The tongue wouldn’t be complete without the family’s longstanding rec-ipe for home cooked mustard, he said. “Nice and sweet and thick.”

Carel plans to research what Ca-nadians do for the holidays, with hopes of roasting a turkey.

Bright lights right here at home

Christmas feastin South Africa

Each November, Shirley Mackey flips a switch and illuminates a dazzling display of lights on her front lawn in Dry Gulch.

The glowing holiday arrangement includes the usual Santas, sleighs, and snowflakes, as well as slightly less con-ventional images like a unicorn, whale, palm tree, dinosaur, and cactus.

The cactus is a tribute to a trip to Arizona, but the rest is just for fun, Shirley said.

“I just like Christmas. I’ve always liked Christmas. The kids like it, and well, I’m still kind of a kid at heart when it comes to the holidays. It’s something I wanted to start, and it just keeps on going.”

Shirley comes up with the concept for most of the display, and Charles helps cut shapes out of plywood and installs mini-lights.

“I like the homemade stuff better,” Shirley said.

“We add a few each year,” Charles added.

Shirley said she can’t guess how many lights are out on the lawn, but

it is “hundreds and hundreds at least.” The couple takes weeks to set up

their lawn, but only one day to take it all down, Shirley said. “I usually start checking things and planning in Octo-ber.”

The display has become a well-known landmark along the highway at this time of year, and truckers have commented to Shirley and Charles that their Christmas lights provide a bright spot along an otherwise drab drive.

“We get a lot of feedback from people up and down the valley,” Charles said.

“When we go to town, they’re always asking how we’re coming along with the lights, when we’ll have them up, and the whole works.”

“People say they look fantastic,” Shirley added.

Shirley plans to keep adding to her display when the occasion arises, with hopes to transition to LED lights in the future.

Carel Theunissen grew up with his mother, father, and three siblings in a small town called Theunissen in the Free-State province in South-Africa, before moving to the city of Bloemfontein. Carel moved to the valley in July, began work at Panorama Mountain Village, where he will work for the winter and experience his first Canadian Christmas.


Holiday traditions from around the world

By Kelsey VerboomPioneer Staff

Each Christmas, Esther and Rolf Wenger and their children, Mark, Corinna, and Sandra, careful-ly select a Christmas tree for their home in Juniper Heights.

Their selection is crucial, and if miscalculated, could send their holidays up in flames — literally.

Esther, who was born in Switzerland, has re-tained her childhood tradition of lighting real can-dles on the Christmas tree every Christmas Eve.

“When I grew up, we always got the tree on the 24th,” she said. “We never had the tree in early. Never, ever.

“It has to be a very fresh tree; it can’t be dry. Also, you can’t have a normal bushy tree. To be safe with the candles, you have to have what we call a Charlie Brown tree,” Esther said.

“It’s quite an ordeal to get the tree. It takes us a long time to pick the right one.”

With the right tree, the Wengers carefully place the candles amongst the branches so the open flame can burn safely.

“We light it, then we all step back and check for smoke,” Corinna said, laugh-ing.

“But in all my life we’ve never had an incident. Not once, ever,” Esther added. “We light it, and never leave it unattended.”

The Wengers place the lights on

their Canadian tree, but when Esther was young, the magic of the candles occurred differently.

“After dinner on the 24th, the adults would tell the kids to go for a walk somewhere. After a while they would call us back, and when we got home, the window would be open and the tree would be lit.”

Similar to Santa traveling down the chimney, the spirit Christkindli was said to have come in through the open window with the tree and presents in hand.

“We were always amazed,” Esther remembers.After the tree was lit, presents could be opened.The Wenger family still opens presents on the

24th, but has adopted the North American tradition of stockings from Santa on the 25th.

“It became a hybrid because of having the kids in school here,” Esther said. As for lighting the tree with candles, Esther said she’ll continue with her Swiss decorating tradition.

“That’s what I know. It’s what I grew up with, and it bring memories of home.”

Among the candles and candle holders that Es-ther purchased while visiting her family in Switzer-land hangs wrapped chocolate Santas, also from Es-ther’s home country.

“You hang the chocolate more to the inside so you have to hunt for it a bit more, and so it doesn’t melt,” Esther said.

In Switzerland, children also receive chocolate, nuts, oranges, and gingerbread on December 6th when Samiclaus and his helper, Schmutzli visit each house with a “bad book” and check for misbehav-iour.

“We once had one that came with a donkey,” Es-ther said. “They tell you all your bad deeds and some of them scare you a bit. Then you have to sing a song or say a poem to him and say you’re sorry, then they’ll give you treats.”

Corinna plans to continue her family’s festive Swiss traditions in the future.

The Wengers advise using candles only if you ab-solutely know what you’re doing!

Lighting a Christmas tree, Swiss style

A BEACON OF LIGHT — Charles and Shirley Mackey’s expansive holiday display in Dry Gulch is visible from the highway. Photo by Kelsey Verboom

HANGINGAROUND—TheWengershangchoc-olateSantas, like this one fromSwitzerland, fromtheirtree.


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The David Thompson Secondary School Senior Boys’ basketball team dominated the gymnasium at a tournament in Invermere on December 3rd and 4th, placing first overall. Pictured, left: #9 Morgan Hendry (in blue) battles for the ball against a trio of Kimberly defense. Above: #7 Ryan McNeil and #22 Ryan Purdy jump for a rebound. Photos by Kelsey Verboom


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Panorama Mountain Village opens to publicThe facilities at Panorama Mountain Village are now open for public use, with a new terrain park on Powder Trail and a new black-diamond run, Turnpike 1, open for the first time this season. Pictured, members of the Sales and Marketing team take a ski break on Friday, December 3rd. Left to right, Stephanie Osadchuk, Jenn Moss, Jasmine Schacher, Jeremy Neill, Kyla Cottom and Laurie Ruault. Photo submitted


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Christmas is in Full Bloom at The Old Zone scoreboard

2010 OldTimers Hockey Assocation Stats

Team W L T PointsHi Heat Hustlers 9 3 0 18

Inside Edge Black Smoke 6 3 3 15

Warwick Wolves 6 3 3 15

Finish Line Phantoms 7 5 0 14

Aquair Waterboys 6 5 1 13

KIcking Horse Coffee Junkies 3 6 3 9

Huckleberry Hawks 4 8 0 8

Radium Petro-Can Killer Tomatoes 2 10 0 4

By Harold HazelaarPioneer Columnist

Did you know that this is the 33rd season for the Columbia Valley Rockies? Did you know that the Rockies have finished first in their division 12 times? Did you know that the Rockies have finished last in their division twice? And did you know that those two times have been 2008/09 and 2009/10?

Is it possible that if our community got behind our team, we could stop them from finishing last for a third straight season? I think we can do it. I think we need to get behind these kids right now and cheer them on every time they play here for the rest of this season.

I am as guilty as the rest of us for not going to the games. I need to make the effort to get out and show my support for our team. The Rockies have a very dedi-cated group of volunteers who need to know that we appreciate what they do. The players also need to know we care. Let’s show them we appreciate their hard work by attending some home games before this season ends. There is no reason these guys can’t make the playoffs. Let’s help them do it. Attending a Rockies game is al-most as fun as watching our OldTimer games.

What’s your excuse? Really!

The Old Zone


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The perfect retirement lifestyle

Seniors want it all: a comfortable home, independence to follow their own schedule and maintain their own interests, safety and security, delicious food and the company of others. And who can blame them? Not long ago, se-niors had limited housing options, and few met all of their needs. But in the spring of 2005 Columbia Garden Vil-lage opened its doors and a new style of seniors’ housing opened in Invermere providing today’s seniors the opportu-nity to experience retirement living at its best.

Columbia Garden Village is a well-crafted seniors’ community boasting 63 beautiful suites ranging from studios to one and two bedroom layouts. These maintenance-free living suites incor-porate supportive features to promote independence and 24-hour emergency monitoring service for added peace of mind. Kitchens include a fridge and stove and each suite is equipped with its own heat and air conditioning. Be-yond the suite is access to a variety of common areas which include a games room, spa, library, dining room, cof-fee room, crafts room, hair salon and lounges. All areas are easily accessible, full of interesting people, engaging ac-tivities and share a wonderful sense of community.

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Free from the responsibilities of home-ownership, seniors at Columbia Garden Village can enjoy the many other activities and joys that life of-fers. We’re fortunate to live in a time when retirement living options provide everything seniors want – and more! Columbia Garden Village is open daily for tours and offers free trial stays. To find out more, call Columbia Garden Village at 250-341-3350.

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T h e P i o n e e r

Submitted by Steve MantykaColumbia Valley Rockies Junior Hockey Club

The Columbia Valley Rockies started December 4th’s game with a very short bench, thanks to the sus-pensions from the previous night against Revelstoke, and the Golden Rockets took a commanding 3-0 lead, only to watch the Rockies climb back to an exciting 8-4 win.

The Rockets broke open the scoring at 15:57 and add-ed another a minute and forty seconds later. They scored again just six seconds after that, momentarily chasing Tyler Stamler from the Rockies net. An equipment malfunction

Rockies win, gain two points on Golden Rocketssaw Stamler go to the dressing room for repairs, and Bruce Corrigal skate to his spot in the crease. But moments later, Stamler emerged to take the goaltending reigns again.

Devin Bell rang up a sale of a Rockies Pizzeria power play pie with a goal at 5:08 from Thomas Robinson and Kevan Mikkelsen to cut the lead to 3-1 after 20 minutes.

In the second, the Rockets made it 4-1 at 16:43 and the Rockies responded with gritty effort, with Guy Glasspoole scoring from Bell and Julian Fraser just 12 seconds later. The Rockies were starting to warm up.

In the third, the Rockies cut the lead to one at 17:02 with Fraser scoring from Glasspoole and Hal-derman, then tied it when Tyler Reay scored, assists to

Fraser and Halderman again.With momentum on their side, the Rockies post-

ed four more goals in less than two minutes to take control of their destiny, leading to an 8-4 win.

Scoring for the Rockies were Stephen Hynes from Glasspoole and Fraser, Tyler Reay with another from Verreault and Stiz, Tryg Strand from Bell and Halder-man and finally Stiz from Reay. A strong two minutes of play shifted this game in the Rockies favor and a much-needed two points was gained in the standings.

The Rockies will take their show on the road for the next week and return to the Eddie Mountain Me-morial Arena on December 18th.


“For all yourdirt-moving

needs”

Winser Timber Ltd.Winser Winser W Timber Ltd.Winser Timber Ltd.• Road Building• Land Clearing• Basement Excavation• Water & Sewer

• Screened Topsoil• Sand & Gravel• Subdivision

Development

Don McintoshBox 2505, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Ph: 250-342-1377E-mail: [email protected]

Screened Top SoilSales & Delivery

• Bedding Sand • Drain Rock• 3/4 Crush Gravel

• Landscaping Rock

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Luke 2:14

Skookum Inn (250) 342-6293

Genuine by Nature.

Nature. RadiumResort.com Radium Hot Springs, BC > 1.800.667.6444 > 250.347.9311

Holidays at Radium ResortCHRISTMAS DINNER BUFFET Join us for dinner on Christmas Day and let us do the cooking. Our Christmas Bu� et will include Salad

Bar, Fresh Veggies, Carved Turkey & Ham with all the � xings, Fresh Fruit, and Seasonal Desserts. Sat., Dec. 25 starting at 5:00 pm.

Adults:$24.95 • Seniors: $18.95 • Kids(6–12):$14.95 • 5 & under free • Reservations recommended 250.347.9311

GIVE THE GIFT OF GOLF AND SAVE Pre-paid 18 hole green fee tickets are fully transferable making them an ideal gift for any golfer. Buy as many as you would like with no minimum purchase required.

Resort Course:Weekday - $39 (reg.$47) • Weekend - $49 (reg.$59) Springs Course:Weekday - $65 (reg.$79) • Weekend - $89 (reg.$110) Springs Driving Range Annual Pass - Single $350 • Couple $450

Add a cart to any ticket for an additional $15. Call to order: Resort Pro Shop 250.347.6266 • Springs Pro Shop 250.347.6200 All prices listed exclude applicable taxes.

FAMILY NEW YEAR’S PARTY Celebrate New Year’s together with Roast Beef & Chicken Dinner Bu� et, Early New Year’s Countdown & Toast and Party Favours for the kids. Visit Radium Hot Springs from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm for tobogganing, skating, hot dogs, hot chocolate and cake followed by � reworks at The Springs Driving Range at 6:30 pm. Fri., Dec. 31 at 4:30 pm & 7:00 pm.

Adults: $39.95 • Kids (4-12): $24.95 • 3 & under are freeReservations required. 250.347.9311

MARDIS GRAS NEW YEAR’S PARTY You’re invited to an evening of dining and dancing Mardis Gras Style. Cocktails at 7:00 pm and Themed Dinner Bu� et at 8:00 pm. Dance to DJ music and ring in the new year with a Midnight Countdown & Toast. Beads, Masks & Hats are provided.

Adults: $59 • Kids (12& under): $25 Reservations required 250.347.9311

and dancing Mardis Gras Style. Cocktails at 7:00 pm and Themed Dinner Bu� et at 8:00 pm. Dance to DJ music and ring in the new year with a Midnight Countdown &

Helping hand given to Mexican dogsBy Kate IrwinPioneer Staff

A group of local animal lovers have been helping to improve the lives of Mexican street dogs during a recent volunteering stint at an animal rescue clinic in Cancun.

Cindy Hopper, Carol Dobson, Glenda Stoski, Kathleen Bernatt and Terri Desantis spent a week at the Candi International/Isla Animals Spay and Neuter Clinic, helping to rescue critically ill and injured dogs from the streets and to control the street dog popula-tion through spaying and neutering.

As well as helping hundreds of dogs during their time in Cancun, the ladies have brought three home to Invermere and are seeking loving homes for two — Ramon and Miguel — in the local area.

“We went down in October from the 17th to the 24th to help at the spay and neuter clinic,” said Carol Dobson, the Invermere dog control officer.

“It’s horrible down there. It’s a whole different way of living. You see dogs dead on the streets, dogs who are skin and bone. They don’t have the help we do here in Canada, so we wanted to do something.”

In Cancun, the ladies met Ricardo Pimentel, who rescues and assists hundreds of stray dogs each month.

The problem of stray dogs in Mexico is over-whelming, said Amber Schick, who previously visited Mexico and helped to transport Ramon, Miguel and the third dog, Cuca, home when they arrived in Cal-gary on Saturday, November 27th.

Mixed breed dogs like these are most prevalent on

the Mexican streets, where they can be found suffering in horrible conditions. They are abused and neglected and allowed to roam freely with horrific injuries, ill-nesses and parasite infestations.

Ricardo brings these animals into his home, nurs-ing them back to health and ensuring they are well tempered and acclimatized to human contact before seeking owners for them.

“The work Ricardo is doing in Cancun is amaz-ing,” said Cindy Hopper, owner of Chopper’s Pet Sup-plies in Invermere. “The need is so great and they are sorely in need of volunteers; it’s tough to get them be-cause not a lot of people are interested.”

The ladies helped to spay and neuter over 600 dogs and cats during their week long stay. As soon as they got home, Carol was online to choose three of Ricardo’s rescued dogs to bring home to Canada.

Within days of arriving in Calgary, Cuca had al-ready won her heart, leaving Ramon and Miguel in need of loving owners.

“Help is so badly needed for these dogs in Mexi-co,” Cindy said. “It really is do or die, and the death is not even a humane one. Even if you can’t adopt a dog you can still donate supplies or help take them down if you are visiting Cancun.”

The ladies are sending regular care packages to Ricardo in Cancun, and are planning another visit to help at the clinic in April.

For more information on the Pimentel Family Rescue visit, www.helpmexicandogs.com. If you are interested in adopting Miguel or Ramon, contact Car-ol at, 250-346-3076.


#4 - 9994 Arrow Rd. (Next to Legacy Kitchens)

I’ve been fi elding questions about leather fl ooring, lately.

It’s a fairly new product and from the examples I’ve seen, I can tell you that it’s affordable, durable and easy to maintain. It comes in a variety of colours, grains and textures and gives any room it’s installed in a unique, new look - even high traffi c areas! Genuine leather exudes warmth and luxuriance,

offers great sound and impact insulation, and improves

beautifully with age and wear. As an added bonus, the product we use is 100% recycled, so you can add a rich and sophisticated look to any room in your home, without breaking the bank!

Come on in to Nature’s Floors and we’ll answer any questions you have about any fl ooring solutions.

affordable, durable and easy to maintain. It comes in a variety of colours, grains and textures and gives

beautifully with age and wear. As an added bonus, the product we use is 100% recycled, so you can add a rich and sophisticated look to any room in your home,

#4 - 9994 Arrow Rd. (Next to Legacy Kitchens)#4 - 9994 Arrow Rd.

(Next to Legacy Kitchens)#4 - 9994 Arrow Rd. (Next to Legacy Kitchens)

Leather FlooringWith David WilsonWith Davava id WilsonFocus on Floors

GET PUMPED TODAY!

Pump your Septic Tank now and…

• Save on Costly Repairs• Avoid Environmental Damage• Keep Your Tank Operating Eff ectively• Extend the Life of your Septic Tank

For More Information Call:

TANKS SHOULD BE PUMPED

EVERY 3 YEARS

Phone: (250) 341-6299 • Fax: (250) 341-6229 • Email: [email protected] EW S PA P E R

Triple the circulation, triple the advertising power of any other local newspaper!

Radium Hot Springsparkscanada.gc.ca

Sources thermales Radiumparcscanada.gc.ca

HOT POOLDecember 14 Noon to 5 pmDecember 25 Noon to 5 pmDecember 26 to January 1 11 am to 11 pm

COOL POOLDecember 25 ClosedDecember 26 to January 1 Noon to 10 pm

Warmest greetings from the staff of

Radium Hot Springs

Special holiday hours

PISCINE CHAUDE14 décembre Midi à 17 h25 décembre Midi à 17 h26 décembre au 1er janvier 11 h à 23 h

PISCINE FROIDE25 décembre Fermé26 décembre au 1er janvier Midi à 22 h

Le personnel des sources thermales Radium vous souhaiteun joyeux temps des Fêtes

Heures d’ouverture spéciales durant le temps des Fêtes

250-347-9485

Annual pass sale on nowSave up to 20% for spontaneous

escapes to Radium, Miette or Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Offre de laissez-passer annuels

Économisez jusqu’à 20 % sur les escapades aux sources thermales Radium, Miette

ou Upper Hot Springs de Banff.

CANINE COMPANIONS — Cindy Hopper, Carol Dobson and Amber Schick (left to right) enjoy some play time with the three dogs they rescued during a recent trip to Cancun, Mexico; Miguel (left), Ramon (right) and Cuca (lying). Miguel and Ramon are seeking loving homes in the local area. Photo by Kate Irwin


EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Paul GlassfordSales Consultant

Invermere, Windermere, Panorama,Fairmont and Radium Hot Springs

RE/MAX InvermereIndependently Owned and Operated

1022B - 7th Avenue, Box 459Invermere BC V0A 1K0

E-mail: [email protected]: 250-342-9611

Broker/OwnerWende Brash

Offi ce: 250-342-6505 • Cell: 250-342-1300

Cell: (250) 342-7415Offi ce: (250) 341-6044

[email protected]

Bernie RavenMaxWell Realty Invermere

926-7th Avenue, Invermere, BCwww.teamraven.ca

Bernie Raven

www.teamraven.ca

Your Local COLUMBIA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

ProfessionalsFor professional management of your strata corporation, overseenby a Certi ed Property Manager®, with the accounting done by aCerti ed Management Accountant, please contact Bill WeissigCPM®, RI, RPA, CPRPM, CLO, SMA, CRES.

Our six Strata Managers are licensed under the Real Estate Services Act of B.C. For more information regarding their extensive quali cationsand experience, please visit our website at www.mountaincreek.ca.Phone: 250-341-6003 Email: [email protected]

Strata, Apartment & Commercial Property Management

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS UTILITIES LTD.

Notice of Application to the Comptroller of Water Rights

Under the Water Utility Act and

The Utilities Commission Act

Notice is hereby given by Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities Ltd. that an application

has been made to the Comptroller of Water Rights for a Certificate of Public

Convenience and Necessity for the proposed construction and operation of a

waterworks distribution system to serve residents in the area of Lots 1 and 2,

District Lots 54, 290 and 291, Kootenay District Plan EPP10201.

Any person wishing further information in connection with this application should

apply directly to:

Fairmont Hot Springs Utilities Ltd.

5225 Fairmont Hot Springs Road, Fairmont Hot Spring, BC, V0B 1L1

Any objections to this application are to be forwarded to Rick Couroux, Secretary

to the Deputy Comptroller of Water Rights, PO Box 9340 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria

BC V8W 9M1, or by email: [email protected] or by fax (250) 953-5124

to be received in this office on or before January 10th

, 2011.

Fairmont Hot Spring Utilities Ltd.

NEEDED A new loving home for

Scarlet, an 8-year-old spayed

female cat. She is affectionate and loving.

Phone David at 250-688-0229

Reporters-in-trainingNadia Fry’s Grade 1 class from Eileen Madson Primary School visited the Columbia Valley Pioneer office on De-

cember 2nd to learn about the whos, whats, wheres, whens and whys of newspapers. The budding reporters solved their most burning question by learning how photos make it in the newspaper.

Photo by Kelsey Verboom

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

#8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC250-341-6299 • [email protected]

www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

For both the December 24th and 31st issues, ad bookings and copy

must be provided by 12 noon, Monday, December 20th.

N EW S PA P E R


HERE TO SERVE YOU

[email protected]

Intuitive Readings, Guidance and Healing at Renaissance Wellness Centre, Invermere.

Advanced bookings required.

Allison BowenCerti ed AEP™

Certi ed Usui Reiki MasterBusiness Administration Diploma

Intuitive Readings, Guidance and Healing

Kari & John Mason 250.270.0821Invermere • Panorama

• PROPERTY MAINTENANCE• Trucking • Mini Excavator • Residential/Commercial

• LANDSCAPING & DESIGN• Skidsteer Services

• Mini Track Hoe

Complete Automotive Repairs

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

(Beside the Petro Canada Car Wash)

• Drinking Water Systems • Duct Cleaning Service • Water Softeners • Whole House or Specialised Filtration

including iron fi lters that really work!Call (250) 342-5089

385 Laurier Street Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Serving The Valley for over

15 Years

INTERIOR FINISHING - REPAIRS - PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR

- KITCHENS, BATHS & BASEMENTS- FURNITURE REPAIRS

1422 12A Avenue, Invermere [email protected] 250-341-5096

REFERENCES AVAILABLE

LICENSED

RENOVATIONS

From Framing to Finishing

We Do It All!

Call Al at

Al Tallman

Septic Tank Pumping Portable

Toilet Rentals• Completesewer/drainrepairs• Reasonablerates–Seniors’discount• Speedyservice–7daysaweek

• Awellmaintainedsepticsystemshouldbepumpedevery2-3years

• Avoidcostlyrepairs

BruceDehart250.347.9803or250.342.5357

NEW SEWER CAMERA

Confi dential Counselling and Consulting• Individual • Couple • Family

Fiona Bradford BSc BSW MSW RSW

250-688-6012 • fi [email protected]#202A 926 7th Avenue, PO Box 414, Invermere BC V0A 1K0

• Relationships • Depression • Anxiety • Parent-Teen Mediation• Grief • Stress

Allan Gauthier

Tel: (250) 349-7586Cell: (250) 489-8685 • Fax: (250) 349-7586

Quality Roofi ng and RepairsQuality Roofi ng and RepairsQuality Roofi ng and RepairsQuality Roofi ng and RepairsCOLUMBIA ROOFING

Call or visit onlinePH: 1-888-711-ESCAPE (3722) • WEB: www.cobblestonecreek.ca

Our vacation rental enquiries outnumber the homes we have available.Let us introduce you to our “Boutique” style management services

and show you how your vacation home can pay for itself.

VACATION HOMES REQUIRED TO MEET OUR GUEST DEMANDS.

• Renovations Inside & Out• Custom Decks

• Design & Build • Finish Carpentry

• Doors & Window Replacement Experts

[email protected] 250.341.5900

Bernie Veldboom • Invermere, BC

Fieldtree Homes Inc. Pine RidgeAcrylic Nails & Sales

Gift certificates available 1304 13th Avenue Invermere, B.C.

250.341.1310

Fresh CleanLaurie 250-342-8977

Cell 250-341-8090We specialize in

Construction Cleans!


HERE TO SERVE YOU

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

Interior WorldRenovating?

Call Bill Cropper (250) 342 4406


Interior WorldWood Blinds



Interior WorldTop Quality



Interior WorldNeed Blinds?


Phone: 250-342-9207

Fine HomeservicesVACUUM CENTRE

Sales • Repairs • Warranty

Residential Jesse Vader 250.341.5426

Commercial Ken Johnson

250.341.5427

250.349.5564

FAIRMONT RIDGERENOVATION

• Doors • Windows • Flooring• Painting/

Interior/Exterior• Kitchen

Renovations

• Bathroom Renovations

• Additions • Decks • Finish Carpentry• Basement

Renovations

250-342-5682 5077 FAIRMONT RESORT RD., FAIRMONT BCEMAIL: [email protected]

• Trusses • Engineered Floors • Wall PanelsTel: 250.341.6075Fax: 250.341.3427Email: [email protected]

1320IndustrialRoad#3Box159,Invermere,B.C.

V0A1K0

Dared Cash RegisterBox 80 Edgewater, BC, V0A 1E0

• Cash Registers• Touch Screen Systems• DVR Systems• Restaurant Pagers• Computers

Sales & [email protected]

(250) 347-9933

www.diamondheatingandspas.com

385 Laurier Street, Invermere, BCPO Box 86, Athalmer, BC V0A 1A0email: [email protected]

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

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

• FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONING • FIREPLACES

Kyle Moll250-341-5603

HTH Contracting Ltd.Building FramingFinishingRenovating

INVERMERE GLASS LTD.Your Full-Service Glazier

• Auto • Home • Commercial• Shower Doors • Mirrors • Windshields250-342-3659 [email protected]

Serving the Valley since 1995 • #3, 109 Industrial Road #2, Invermere 1710 10th Avenue – Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Scott PostlethwaiteResidential, Commercial

Electric Furnace and Hot Water Tank Repair and Service

For All Your Electrical Needs

[email protected]

CVCC Contractor/ Trade Builder of the Year

2008

• Plumbing, Repair and Installation

• Drain Lines• Hot Water Tanks

24 hour emergency service

250-341-8501Senior Discount

DCS Plumbing & Heating Cranbrook Pest ControlWe use the most successful products available.

Environmentally-friendly integrated pest management.Ask about our maintenance programs

PEST QUESTIONS? Visit our website:www.cranbrookpestcontrol.com

[email protected] 250-426-9586

ALL WORK

GUARANTEED

MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENTCERTIFIED & LICENSED


HERE TO SERVE YOU

Located in Parkside Place Downtown Invermere

for a Healthy Lifestyle - and always fresh!• Brown Rice Sushi • Wild Caught Salmon

• Naturally Pickled Sushi Ginger

Open Monday - Saturday 10:30 am to 5:00 pm Our freshly made Sushi also available at

AG Valley Foods 7 am - 10 pmLocated in Parkside Place

Delicious SushiDelicious Sushi

Invermere

www.cordnerarchitect.com

(250) 341-6888

Your search for quality and dependability ends with us.Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists

Truck Mounted System • Customer Satisfaction GuaranteedDean HubmanCertified Technician250-342-3052

Toll Free: 877-342-3052Invermere, BC V0A 1K3

[email protected] Cope Journeyman Carpenters 250.342.1024

• Millwork• Cabinets• Stairs• CustomFraming

• Renovations

Lake Auto Services250-342-9310

Same great team, same great service.

Radium Hot Springs Esso 250-347-9726

7507 Main St. West, Radium Hot Springs

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

250-342-6612

Interior / Exterior / working locally

www.korupaintinginc.ca

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

BOX 4597553 MAIN STREET

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BCV0A 1M0

PHONE: 250-347-9350FAX: 250-347-6350

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

Lambert

FREEESTIMATES

INFRARED INSPECTIONSDETECT: HEAT/ENERGY LOSS, MOISTURE INTRUSION,

FAULTY WIRING, ACTIVE MOLD, VERMIN & PESTS,NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING

KARLFAST • 250-688-1200 • [email protected]

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

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:250-342-3268 (plant) 250-342-6767 (o� ce)

WINDERMERE 250-342-6805

SHOLINDER & MACKAYEXCAVATING Inc.

Septic Systems Installed ~ Pumped ~ RepairedPrefab Cement Tanks Installed

Water Lines Dug InstalledBasements Dug


HERE TO SERVE YOU■ Lockout Service ■ Lake Recovery ■ 24 Hour Towing ■ Prompt Service

Warbrick Towing & [email protected] • Cell: 250-342-5851

Warbrick Towing & Salvage

Also o� ering FREE year-round pickup of

unwanted vehicles

Industrial ~ Commercial ~ Residential• Garage Doors • Passage Doors • Truck Doors • Sun Rooms

• Patio Covers • Vinyl Decking • Aluminum Railings • Gutters • Siding • Soffi t • Facia • Window Capping • Renovations

250-342-6700 • [email protected]

“Serving the Columbia Valley”

250-342-1355After Hours Call: 250-342-3830

Email: [email protected]

• Furnaces • Heat Pumps • Fireplaces• Full Heating and Ventilation Systems

Call for your FREE consultation and estimate

Kimberley Rae SandersonPortrait & Commercial Photography

Digital Retouching & RestorationInstructional Courses

250.342.5102 • [email protected]

Private or Group, on:

Digital Photographyand Image Editing

Gift Certi cates Available!

• Excavators • Mini-Excavators • Bobcats• Dump Trucks • Water Trucks • Compaction Equipment

• Snow Plow • Sanding Equipment • Crane Truck• Mobile Pressure Washing & Steam Cleaning

• Underground Services • Site Prep & Demolition• Road Building • Land Clearing • Controlled Burning

• Rock Walls • Rip Rap • Top Soil • Sand & Gravel

CONTRACT OR HOURLYMACHINE RENTALS AVAILABLE

VJ (Butch) BishopOwner/Operator

4846 Holland Creek Ridge Rd.Invermere, BC V0A 1K0

Canucks and Yanks face off in Invermere

The Whitefish Montana Curling Club visited the In-vermere Curling Club on Saturday, December 4th for some friendly competition and a few lessons on the ice. The American club usually curls on hockey rinks during the midnight hours, so using ice dedicated to curling in the middle of the day was a great opportunity.

Photo by Samantha Stokell


ANNOUNCEMENT

Alcoholics Anonymous. Open to all. Regular meetings of the Columbia Valley A.A. are held at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at the Valley Connection, far end of the Service B.C. building, 625-4th Street, Invermere. The Radium Friendship Group meets at 8 p.m. Friday at the Catholic Church, east side of Main Street, Radium. Call 250-342-2424 for more info.

Al-Anon. Are you concerned about or affected by someone else’s drinking? If so, please join us. Al-Anon meets EVERY Monday in Invermere at 7 p.m. at the Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church, 712 – 12th Ave (behind the Invermere hospital). For information, please call Carol at 250-347-9841.

10% off at The Windy Café!Once again, enjoy a 10% discount off your bill! 250-342-6001.

Table Top Christmas Trees available December 1st and Home Hardware and AG Foods, price $20, all proceeds go to the Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau.

CHEERS & JEERS

Cheers to Jay and Mark for pulling me out of my truck when it rolled over. Thank You, Len.

Cheers to the women in Spur Valley who walk in the bush.

Cheers to the coaches, supporters, and bus driver from the Bighorn Football Club.

Cheers to Lindsey & Stu for their Spooktacular Halloween party! You both know how to make the holidays magical for our little people.

Cheers to Liona! You are a beautiful soul.

Cheers to Steve’s great grooming of the cross-country ski trails at Nipika.

CHEERS & JEERS

Cheers to the Ktunaxa speakers who attended the Jumbo Creek Conservation Society AGM on November 30th and so eloquently expressed the spiritual significance of the Jumbo Creek area and the grizzly bear population it supports.

Cheers to the Village of Radium for being so flexible and generous with rent for the Columbia Valley Gymnastics Club. Their generosity has enabled our small club to continue through some challenging items.

Cheers to Larry and staff at the Bottle Depot for accepting cans and bottles in support of the Food Bank.

Jeers to the redhead at the arena on Friday. You should be ashamed of yourself. There were children that heard every dirty thing that came out of your mouth.

Cheers to the dark-haired lady at the arena. Good for you for taking the high road. Remember, life is too short to worry about bullies.

Cheers to George and Stella Gray for their effort on the Christmas decorations in Fairmont.

Cheers to the little girl who shared the magic of Santa with me at the Copper Point dinner. You made my Christmas!

LOST AND FOUND

Found, set of GMC keys for Van? 250-342-3195.

Lost, Orange and White Husqvarna Chainsaw, lost on Saturday December 4, about 12 p.m., please call 250-342-5172.

STORAGE

Secure self storage, call Suzanne,

403-390-4513.

STORAGE

NEWHOUSEMULTI STORAGE

Various sizes available.Now with climate controlled units.

Call 250-342-3637.

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

You own it we can store it! Secure, fenced compounds any size up to one acre. Secure containers available. Would also build building to suit for long term tenant. Zoned heavy industrial. Invermere Industrial Park. Phone 250-342-5297, 250-346-3011 or 250-342-2100.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

864 sq.ft. Warehouse space with loading dock, unheated, $656.25/month includes GST, available immediately. Call 250-342-3637.

New, commercial office, and/or retail space for rent. Prime location, D/T Invermere, excellent monthly rates, furnished, kitchen, available now. 250-341-5788.

ACCOMMODATION

Motel Bavaria is offering off-season low room rates, daily, weekly, and monthly. Please call 250-347-9915.

SHARED ACCOMMODATION

Private room w/ cable, phone, laundry access, internet, and all utilities included, $400/month + $200 DD, N/P, 250-342-4020.

Room in Invermere with own bathroom, shared kitchen and laundry, $500/month, includes all utilities, 250-342-0358, leave message.

SHARED ACCOMMODATION

Room for rent immediately in shared house, $500/month, [email protected] or 403-678-3087.

SUITE FOR RENT

Radium, furnished apartments available Oct 1. 1-2 bdrm, 1-1 bdrm, and 2 –bachelors. Includes all utilities, parking and cable. N/S, pet possible, DD required. 2 bdrm - $800/month, 1 bdrm - $650/month, Bachelor - $550/month. Contact Joan at 250-342-7517 for viewing.

CARRIAGE COURT APARTMENTS. Conveniently located behind Sobeys within walking distance to downtown. 2 bdrm townhouse units, outside entrance. Sliding glass doors open onto balcony, overlooking private courtyard. Fireplace and W/D included in each unit. Long term preferred, N/P, $750 - $850/month + DD. Utilities not included. Available immediately, 250-342-8781.

2 bdrm apartments, D/T Invermere, clean, quiet units, parking, walk to everything, Start at $725/month, N/S, references required, D/W, W/D hookups. Call Dennis, 250-342-6912.

Apartment for rent, 1800 sq.ft., 3 bdrm, 2 bath, huge balcony with view, utilities included, $1250/month, 403-519-0447.

Walkout basement suite, Fort Point, Invermere, 1420 sq.ft., fully furnished, 2 bdrm, W/D, D/W, cable, utilities all included, very clean, lots of light, modern, $1000/month, private driveway, N/S, available December 1. 250-341-5211 or 250-688-3746.

For Rent in Edgewater, 2 bdrm apartment with yard, heat included, $550/month; 1 bdrm apartment, $450/month; 2 bdrm, $600/month, heat included. 250-342-2898.

SUITE FOR RENT

Invermere, 2 furnished, 1 bdrm apartments, laundry, cable TV, utilities included, N/S, N/P, DD, 250-341-6096.

Radium, large, bright 1 bdrm apartment, $650/month, includes utilities, DD, call 250-342-3790 to view.

Radium, top level, 3 bdrm apartment with 5 appliances, $600/month, DD required, 250-342-3790 or 250-342-5159.

Walk to D/T and Kinsmen Beach, spacious, clean 2 bdrm basement suite, separate entrance, 4 appliances, backyard amenities, N/S, N/P, no partiers, references/deposit required, rent negotiable, water, hydro, heat included, available January 1 or earlier, 250-342-7590.

Radium, very nice, bright, 2 bdrm suite with in-floor heating, $950/month, utilities, TV, and internet, 250-342-5159.

1 bdrm apartment in Radium, $550/month, includes utilities, available January 15, 250-342-5159.

2 bdrm, N/S, N/P, walking distance to D/T Invermere, $985/month + DD, F/S, W/D, D/W, and utilities included, 250-342-1584 or 250-342-8679.

Furnished studio suite in newer home, utilities, laundry, cable, internet included, N/S, N/P, $600/month, 250-688-0965 or 250-688-1048.

Large 1 bdrm, furnished suite in quiet, private home, utilities and cable included, $725/month + DD, 250-342-9404.

2 bdrm suite in Invermere with private entrance, Wilder Subdivision, D/W, W/D, available January 1, 250-342-6842.

SUITE FOR RENT

Very affordable, 2 bdrm, close to bus and D/T, partially furnished, cable TV, internet, utilities, all included, available January 1, 250-342-1617.

Fairmont, available immediately, great central location near the Columbia River and all 3 golf courses, bright & spacious, 1100 sq.ft., 2 bdrm, lower level walkout suite, fully equipped with 5 appliances, tile, and laminate throughout. A steal at $895/month, including utilities, Wi-Fi available, N/S & mature, references and DD required. To view or for more info call 250-270-0710.

Walkout, large, bright 1 bdrm basement suite in newer home, available January 1 (negotiable), in private location near Kinsmen Beach and D/T Invermere, $650/month, includes utilities, 403-862-4957 or 250-341-3370.

Newly renovated, partially furnished upper suite for year round rental, 3 bdrm, 1 ½ bath, walk to D/T Invermere and Kinsmen Beach, 250-688-0244.

Invermere, large 2 bdrm walkout suite, separate entrance, 5 appliances, $1100/month, DD and references required, includes all utilities, cable, and internet, N/S, pets negotiable, no partiers, 250-342-4436 or 250-342-1427.

Invermere, 1 bdrm, private furnished suite, includes Hydro, N/S, available December 15, $600/month, 250-342-5332.

HOUSE FOR RENT

Lochend Lane house, near Sobeys in Invermere, 3 big bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, A/C, soft water, wood burning stove, all appliances, no yard work, pets negotiable, quiet area, N/S, DD and references required, $1400/month + utilities. 250-342-5229.

Pioneer Classifieds• Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: 250-341-6229• Email: [email protected] • www.columbiavalleypioneer.com


house FoR ReNT

Contact 250-342-4040 for seasonal or long term

rentals or go online at

FirstChoiceRentals.ca

FOR RENT

Black Forest Heights, totally renovated, 2 bdrm, 1 ½ bath, upper floor, 6 new appliances, blinds, large deck, yard, N/S, N/P, $900/month, includes water and Satellite T.V., 780-718-4922 or [email protected].

½ Duplex in Radium Hot Springs, 3 bdrm, 3 full baths, beautiful patio, BBQ, patio furniture, available immediately. Contact 403-288-3743 or email [email protected] for information and pictures.

Invermere, 2 bdrm bright walkout, all inclusive: electricity, Hydro, utilities, high speed internet, W/D, new appliances, large windows, slate tile floors, yard maintenance, beautiful yard facing south down Lake Windermere, parking, garbage removal, cat or dog possible, N/S, no partiers, available now. Perfect for quiet single or working couple. Long/short term. Close to all amenities and Panorama Ski/Staff bus stop. $950/month, 250-342-6899 or 250-688-7798.

Wonderful home, freshly painted, great views, 3 minutes from the lake in Indian Beach, great neighbors, 2 bdrm + Den, email: [email protected] or call 435-901-1600.

1800 sq.ft., 4 bdrm bungalow, attached garage, across from Windermere Golf Course, $1450/month, DD and references required, 250-341-1998.

In Radium, bright 3 bdrm home in nice subdivision, $900/month + utilities. Cozy 2 bdrm trailer on large private lot with out buildings, $850/month + utilities. In Invermere, clean, partially furnished, 2 bdrm home, great location for Panorama bus, W/D included, $1250/month, includes utilities. All N/S, DD, and references. 250-342-3841.

coNdo FoR ReNT

WIndermereLakevIeW meadoWs

Spacious luxury, 3 bdrm, 2 ½ bath, 2 storey, premium finishing, large decks, bright, open views, major appliances, elevator access, secured underground double parking and storage, recreation centre w/indoor pools, fitness, games rooms, private beach, boat dock, sports courts, playgrounds N/S, N/P, DD, references, $1800/month, includes Heat/AC, + basic utilities. Rent to own options. Avail immediately, 250-688-0512.

New townhome for rent, 3 bdrm, 2 bath + garage, in Cedarwood Glen Estates, D/T Invermere, N/S, N/P, $1250/month, available January 1st, 250-341-1182.

2 bdrm, 2 bath in The Point, underground parking, W/D, $1000/month, 403-519-0447.

Fully furnished, 2 bdrm condo, 2 blocks from D/T and beach, $900/month, includes utilities, cable and high speed internet, available December 1, 250-833-0196 or 250-341-5855.

Radium Resort, 1 bdrm furnished villa with rec centre, includes cable TV, W/D, D/W, 1 month free with 6 month lease, N/S, N/P, $725/month + Hydro. Also, 3 bdrm, Akiskinook Resort furnished condo, recreation centre, for 2 tenants, N/S, N/P, $950/month + utilities. 403-293-5659.

Sable Ridge Condos for rent, 1 bdrm, top floor, fully furnished, $825/month; 3 bdrm’s + Den, top floor, fully furnished, $1995/month. Please call, 403-630-7464.

3 bdrm + den, townhouse on 10th Avenue with spacious kitchen and living room, 1 ½ bath, attached single car garage, 5 appliances, close to Panorama bus pickup and grocery store, N/S, N/P, DD, $1400/month, including utilities, available December 1st, 250-342-9097.

Radium Hot Springs, 1 bdrm, fully furnished condo, $800/month, includes utilities, 250-345-4086.

coNdo FoR ReNT

The Peaks in Radium, 1 bdrm + Den, 800 sq.ft., $825/month, includes all utilities, F/P, underground parking, storage, long term lease, 403-816-6007.

Radium, Pinewood condo, 2 bdrm with lofe, 2 bath, F/P, $900/month, includes underground parking, utilities, N/P, N/S, 403-615-9989.

Radium Hot Springs, 3 bdrm, fully furnished condo, $1200/month, includes utilities, 250-345-4086.

2 bdrm condo behind Sobeys, available December 15, D/W, W/D, stove, fridge, microwave, $750/month, 250-342-3417 or 250-347-9768.

2 bdrm, 2 bath, new luxury furnished and equipped condo in D/T Invermere, great views, hot tub access, available until June, 250-688-0244.

1 bdrm, near Sobeys, N/S, N/P, $600/month, 250-342-6255.

Radium, Pinewood, 2 bdrm, main floor, 2 bath, F/P, heated parking, N/S, 1 year lease, 250-341-7448 or 403-328-2944.

Executive, 1700 sq.ft., new townhouse for rent, fully furnished, 3 bdrm, F/P, 2 flat screen T.V.s, 2 underground parking spaces, available January 1, Pineridge Mountain Resort. 403-262-0262, ext. 32.

Downtown living at Parkside Place, energy efficient, furnished, 2 bdrm, 2 bath, 6 appliances, small pets welcome, $1100/month + Heat, 250-270-0370 or [email protected]

2 bdrm condo in D/T Invermere, walking distance to everything, in quiet building, N/S, $700/month + utilities, available December 15, 250-342-5332.

house FoR sale

420 4th Ave., Invermere, 3 bdrm, 3 bath, newly renovated, shop/shed, deck, fenced yard, all appliances, 3 blocks to beach, $320,000, 250-342-1698, www.fmsguitars.com/house.

coNdo FoR sale

Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo at the Peaks in Radium. Swimming pool, hot tubs, underground heated parking, A/C, fireplace, appliances, and window coverings, includes 2 person infrared sauna and deluxe massage chair. Great view! Like new! $204,999, No agents please. 250-341-5170.

Ski to your door, fully furnished 1 bdrm condo, F/P, deck, heated parking, swimming pool, hot tubs. Tamarack Lodge, Panorama, BC, $115,000 Firm. Call 250-342-6858 after 6 p.m.

waNTed

snowshoes, 21” or bigger, call Katie at 250-342-3595.

MIsc. FoR sale

support rockies Hockey! Pine, Fir, dry and split. To order call 250-342-6908.

Floor model Blowout!! 2 person hot tub, regular $5500, sale $4500. Valley Spas, 250-342-3922.

Top Quality Hay and straw, alfalfa/grass round bales. Call Elkhorn Ranch, 250-342-0617.

Firewood for sale, split pine and fir, $220/cord, split birch, $350/cord. 250-346-3247 or 250-342-1509.

Two Woodstoves, cast iron, air tight, pedestal standing, glass door fronts, $550 and $400, 250-341-8755 after 6 p.m.

Firewood, cut, split, and delivered. Birch, half cord $275, full cord $400. Larch, half cord $240, full cord $350. Fir and Pine, half cord $180, full cord $275. 250-688-0143.

Hancock winter tires, 205 75 R15, 1 year old, $300, 250-342-6022.

Renovation Sale, appliances, excellent working condition, entertainment centre, 4x7 pool table, hideaway single bed, glass coffee table. 250-341-1886.

Kids skis, Rossignol Blasts, 148 cm for sale. No bindings, $75, 250-342-0399.

vehIcles FoR sale

2002 Toyota Tacoma, 4x4, 182,000 km, TRD, extended cab, good condition, $14,000, 250-342-0187.

2006 Dodge Grand Caravan, 112,000 km, brand new winter tires, stow and go seating, air/tilt/cruise, $10,500 OBO, call Jay, 250-342-6956.

busINess FoR sale

Busy seasonal café for sale in Invermere, B.C. serious inquiries only,

250-341-5370.

seRvIces

Tile & slate InstallsJourneyman tile setter30+ years experienceCustom Steam Rooms,

Showers, Floors, and Cultured Stone.

All work Guaranteed.Competitive rates.

Call 250-341-5645.

Furnace & duct cleaning services using the patented rotobrush system. Call AQUAIR for free estimates, 250-342-5089.

Get 25% offFree In-Home Consultation,

Customized, high qualityBLInds with lifetime warranty,

Commercial or residential.Shannon’s Blinds & Designs,

Call a professional today; 250-342-5749

[email protected]“Covering the Valley – One

Window At A Time”Offer expires December 15th, 2010

seRvIces

vacuumsParts, repairs & accessories,

All makes & modelsCentral Vacuums – sales and

installations. Bonded & licensed

Fine Homeservices250-342-9207, [email protected].

Phil’s Carpentry Everything from roofs to decks, completion of basement and bathrooms. Phone 250-341-8033 (cell) – 24/7. Not on valley time.

Water treatment & purification, includes drinking water systems, softeners & conditioners, iron filters. Call AQUAIR, 250-342-5089.

Heaven’s Best Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. Dry in 1 hour! Serving the Valley since 2006. Call 250-688-0213.

LBo autobodyYour Fender Bender mender

& The valley shine shopAuto detailing, power polishing, rock-chip repair, and more… Prepare your boat for storage with an interior detail and exterior polish. Call Shawn or Jodi at 250-342-9696.

Flooring installations, lino, carpet, laminate and hardwood. 30 years experience. Call 250-347-9192 or 250-341-1235.

executive Typing services, Over 20 years word processing experience. Resumes, manuals, data entry, and more. Accurate and fast! 250-270-0254.

RecReaTIoNal vehIcles

SNOWMOBILE SERVICE SPECIAL

All makes and Models - Snow Plows, Klim Clothing, Avalanche Gear• SERVICE • PARTS • SALES • RENTALS

Supplying Parts and Service for all makes and models.Located Invermere Cross Roads beside Tim Hortons250-342-3350 • www.bpmotorsports.ca


services

Mike’s Handyman Services, renovations and new construction, reasonable rates. 250-341-5770.

Vacationing? Immaculate, reliable house and pet sitter. Will also clean and organize. Call Cindy, 250-347-6885.

D&M Painting, interiors, exteriors, re-paints, etc. Call 250-341-1182.

help wanted

Want to Set your oWn ScHeDule?

Then selling .925 sterling silver jewellery is for you! Work part-time or full-time selling beautiful jewellery and having fun! Work as little or as much as you like. Earn 30% on your sales along with opportunities for trips and free jewellery. Fastest-growing sterling silver jewellery company. Interested? Call 250-342-0399.

Hotel Front Desk Clerk, Full-time, duties include maintaining inventories of vacancies, reservations, rooms: registering and checking-out guests; preparing daily records, receipts and vouchers; promptly answering all inquiries; providing information about hotel & community. Must be mature, reliable, highly organized and professional. Must be able to work weekends & nights. Previous experience preferred. Wage 12.13/hour. Email resumes to [email protected], or drop off at 1310 7th Ave. Only qualified applicants will be contacted.

help wanted

Experienced Tire Person needed, fax resumes to 250-342-4412 or email: [email protected].

Subway in Gasplus Gas Station in Fairmont, looking to hire a good counter attendant and cash register clerk, full-time position, $11.50/hour for 40 hours/week + benefits. Apply in person or by fax or phone at 250-342-5055, [email protected].

new nail Salon opening Soon! Looking for upbeat, professional, certified staff. Services will include manicures, pedicures, and gel nails. If any of those fall into your area of expertise, I would love to hear from you! Contact me at [email protected] or 250-341-5022 for more information. All applications will remain confidential.

careers

careers careers

Careers at CBTCBT has two openings in our Castlegar office:

Director, Community Engagement•Community Liaison, Southwest Basin•

A detailed description of duties, skills and qualifications can be viewed at www.cbt.org/careers or requested from Debra Stewart at 1.800.505.8998.

Please forward resumes to [email protected] by noon (Pacific) December 30, 2010 for consideration.

w w w . c b t . o r g • 1 . 8 0 0 . 5 0 5 . 8 9 9 8

3.25” x 4.6”

1 Year Assistant ManagerMaternity Leave -Valley Fitness Centre, a non-profit organization.

In this position you will provide enthusiastic and attentive front line customer service. We are looking for a positive self-motivated individual, you should have a passion for working in a customer service and sports/recreation role. Flexible part time or full time - potential to work both daytime and evening shifts.

In addition to amazing customer service, other job roles include office administration, including scheduling, filing, ordering supplies, accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking and daily bookkeeping – no experience required – training provided! This job requires a high attention to detail and responsibility to manage the VFC during the manager’s absence. PS This job involves cleaning, as we work very hard to keep our centre clean and tidy. If you are not a fan of

cleaning - this is not the job for you!

Please apply to Helen Breau at [email protected] by December 20, 2010

shapeupinvermere.com

0763792 BC Ltd. O/A Tim Hortons496 Highway 93/95, Invermere BC, V0A 1K2

Food Service AttendantPermanent Full-time Graveyard

(11p.m.- 7 a.m.; 12 a.m. -8 a.m.) and weekends.Rate $11.05 per hour + benefits

Start Date: ASAPNo Experience required Education: N/A, not required

Apply in person at the above address

BY fax: 250 341- 3177, Email: [email protected]

Part-time Medical Office AssistantJob description: Answering multi line phone, booking appointments, electronic filing, faxing, call backs, sterilizing equipment and rooms, escorting patients, other clerical duties as necessary.

Skills: Previous office experience necessary. Previous Medical office experience a plus. Excellent computer and keyboarding skills, experience with multi-line phones, ability to prioritize tasks, take direction, work well with others, work independently and to learn and adapt to a new and challenging environment.

Wage: Depending on experience and ability.

Please send resume to e-mail [email protected] or Fax: (250) 342-6669

Invermere Medical Clinic

Quality Control TechnicianCranbrook, Fernie & Invermere

BA Blacktop/ BA Concrete/ Fernie Ready Mix well established companies and part of Interoute Construction Ltd. (ICL Ltd.) group, are seeking for a Quality Control Technician. ICL Ltd. is a division of Terus Construction Ltd., a leader in the construction industry in British Columbia, the Yukon Territory.

This position will be based primarily at the Cranbrook operations and reporting to the Area Manager. The scheduled start of work is to be early 2011.

To succeed in this position you must have good understanding of the Quality Control and Assurance testing procedures used in the construction industry. You are also a self-starter, function well within a team environments while being capable of working independently. You must demonstrate strong problem solving and communications skills. Finally, candidates must be flexible and mobile as per the nature of the work some travelling is required.

Requirements/Skills• Good communication skills (oral and written) and team player• Accuracy in reporting• Time management skills• Computer Literate• Driver’s License

Experience/Education• CET in Civil Construction with related experience to construction

materials testing or 5 years directly related experience in construction materials testing.

We offer a competitive compensation package with a comprehensive benefit plan. For more information visit our website at: www.terusconstruction.ca. Please send your resume stating position to the Human Resources department at: [email protected] or by fax at: 604 575-3691

Terus Construction Ltd. would like to thank all applicants for submitting their resume. However, only applicants selected to be interviewed, will be contacted. Posting will be closing January 4th 2011.

High Country Properties is seeking self-motivated individuals to work on a contract basis, cleaning

vacation rental homes in the Windermere Valley and at

Panorama. This position offers a competitive wage and a consistent, reliable work

schedule. Suitable candidates will have cleaning experience,

their own vehicle and the ability to work independently.

Contact Julie Neville at (250) 342-3887,

or email julie@ highcountryproperties.com

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

ADVERTISING DEADLINES #8, 1008 - 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC

250-341-6299 • [email protected] www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

For both the December 24th and 31st issues, ad bookings and copy

must be provided by 12 noon, Monday, December 20th.

N EW S PA P E R


CAREERS

Front Desk ManagerFairmont Hot Springs Resort is now accepting applications for the following positions:

fairmonthotsprings.com

• SupervisionandperformancemanagementofallFrontDesk/Reservationstaff.• Resolveguestconcernsandissuesandfollow-up.• Forecastroomnights,yieldmanagementandrecommendroomrates.• Develop,implementandmonitoranannualdepartmentaloperatingbudget.• Coordinateandimplementspecialsandpackages.• Prepareweeklyworkschedulesbasedonroomforecastsandreportpayroll.Qualifications:• Minimumoffiveyearsexperienceinmanagementorasaseniorsupervisorinaresortproperty.• Professionalcertificationintourismandhospitalitycareerpreferred.• Haveahighlevelofleadershipaswellasmanagementskills.• Superiorwrittenandoralcommunicationskills.• Excellentorganizational/timemanagementskills,withtheabilitytosetprioritiesforselfandothers.• Proficientwithcomputers,includingOfficeSuiteandMaestro.

Health, Safety and Training Coordinator• SupervisionofHealthandSafety(H&S)Committee,includingtrainingofCommitteemembers.• LiaisonwithWorkSafeBConallmattersrelatedtoH&S.• CreationandimplementationofEmergencyResponseProgramwithintheorganization.• Responsibilityforsecuritystaffandissues.• TrainingofallnewstaffinH&Sandcustomerservice.• Ongoingresponsibilityforfront-linestafftraining.Qualifications:• MinimumoftwoyearsH&Sexperiencepreferred.• CertificateinSafetyManagement.Experienceintrainingfront-linestaff.ProficiencyinOfficeSuite.• Excellentorganizationalandtimemanagementskills,withtheabilitytosetpriorities.

Lodge Food and Beverage Manager• Assistinthedevelopment/implementationofnewmenus,pricingstructures,andmarketingprograms.• Maintainslabourcostobjectivesbyadheringtolabourstandards.• Completeallbeverageinventories.• Reviewandapproveallpayrollfordepartment.• Overseefoodandbeverageinventorycontrolsoftwareforbeverageprogram.• Responsibleforhiringstaffofalllodgeoutletsforservers,baristas,bussers,hostesses,bartendersand

banquetstaff.• Responsibleformaintainingalltrainingstandards,andensuringimplementationofallSOP’s.Qualifications:• DiplomainTourismandHospitalityrequired,BachelorofBusinessinTourismandHospitalityan

asset.• KnowledgeofMSWord,Excel,InternetandPOSsystems.• Minimumfiveyearsexperienceinaresortsetting.

An Experienced Full Time Server is also required.FairmontHotSpringsResortoffersacompetitivesalaryandbenefitpackagewithaccesstoallresortamenities.Interestedapplicantsshouldforwardtheirresumewithreferencesto:

DavidSheedy:[email protected],fax250.345.6616,orcall250.345.6004.

No Price Increase From Last Year

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

2011 Columbia Valley

N EW S PA P E R

No. 8, 1008 - 8th Ave. Box 868 • Invermere BC • V0A 1K0

Phone: 250-341-6299 Fax: 250-341-6229

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

ADVERTISING DEADLINE December 17th, 2010

PUBLICATION DATEMarch 2011

Here's why the Map Book provides the best value for your advertising dollar:

• With 100,000 copies, the Columbia Valley Map Book is the largest publication in the region.• In the Columbia Valley alone, we distribute 75,000 copies at more than 150 locations. • � e other 25,000 copies are sent to visitor centres across Western Canada and the northern United States.• Our area maps are redrawn each year with the most current information.• � e Map Book is available for 12 months beginning each spring, before the start of school spring break. • Now in its 16th year, the durable, digest-sized publication is great for purse, pocket or glove compartment.

Reach more customers with the Number One publication in the Columbia Valley

Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One Reach more customers with the Number One publication in the Columbia Valleypublication in the Columbia Valley



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

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

WE ARE ACCEPTING

• CallourOfficeAssistant,Katieat250-341-6299withyourVisaorMastercardnumber.

• Payinpersonatourofficewithcreditordebitcardat1008-8thAvenue,Invermere.

• [email protected]…

PAY M E N T O P T I O N S

Logging truck smashThe front end of this silver Jeep Wrangler was flat-

tened in a crash with a logging truck by the crossroads just outside Invermere, at 8:25 a.m. on Wednesday, December 8th. The female driver, who was travelling alone, received injuries to her legs and right arm and was trapped in the vehicle when the right-hand side of her Jeep was crushed by the force of the impact, which threw the front of the Jeep into the air.

The Jeep was travelling northbound along High-way 93/95. It had just reached the traffic lights and started to turn left into Invermere when it collided with the logging truck, which was travelling south-bound. Within minutes police and two first respond-ers were on the scene and firefighters were called to extract the woman who was taken to Invermere and District Hospital. Photo by Kate Irwin


PIONEER ON THE ROAD

Pioneer takes a tripClockwise from top left: Jim and Sheila Bonny at the Annapurna Base-

camp in Nepal, altitude 4,130 metres; Lorne and Diane Kochorek, Judy Sheller, Dick and Peggy Barrett and Debbie and Glen Casey in Riu Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta; Georgina DuBois, Tanya DuBois, Mackenzie, Spencer and Teagan DuBois at Hilo Hattie’s Hawaiian Store; Adam and Michael Kubian on the Big Island, Hawaii.

Email your high-resolution travel photos to [email protected], mail to Box 868, Invermere, V0A 1K4 or bring them in person to 8-1008 8th Avenue, Invermere.


Announcements

ATTENTION RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SURVIVORS! If you received the CEP (Common Experience Payment), you may be eligible for further cash compensation. To see if you qualify, phone toll free 1-877-988-1145 now. Free service!

Auto FinAncing

$0 DOWN & we make your 1st payment at auto credit fast. Need a vehicle? Good or Bad credit call Stephanie 1-877-792-0599. www.autocreditfast.ca. DLN 30309.

NO CREDIT? No Problem! Cars, Trucks, SUVS. We finance all types of credit bankrupt, divorced, repos, 9 sins. Apply on-line www.loanmasters.ca

WANT A VEHICLE BUT STRESSED ABOUT YOUR CREDIT? Last week 14 out of 16 applications approved! We fund your future not your past. Any Credit. $500 Xmas CASH back. www.coastlineautocredit.com or 1-888-208-3205.

educAtion

APARTMENT/CONDOMINIUM MANAGERS (CRM) home study course. Many jobs registered with us across Canada! Thousands of grads working! Government certified. 30 years of success! www.RMTI.ca or 1-800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

PersonAls

FREE TO TRY. LOVE * MONEY * LIFE. #1 Psychics! 1-877-478-4410 $3.19 min. 18+ 1-900-783-3800 NOW HIRING.

DATING SERVICE. Long-Term/Short-Term Relationships, FREE CALLS. 1-877-297-9883. Exchange voice messages, voice mailboxes. 1-888-534-6984. Live adult casual conversations-1on1, 1-866-311-9640, Meet on chat-lines. Local Single Ladies.1-877-804-5381. (18+).

emPloyment oPPortunities

Excellent Opportunity with an Excellent Company! DAVIS GM in Lethbridge, AB is looking for an AUTOBODY TECHNICIAN to join their team. Please submit your resume to [email protected] or call Lorie at 403-394-2501.

ensign energy serVice inc.

is looking for experienced Drilling Rig, & Coring personnel for all position levels. Drillers, Coring Drillers $35. - $40.20.; Derrickhands $34., Motorhands $28.50; Floorhands, Core Hands, Helpers $24. - $26.40. Plus incentives for winter coring! Telephone 1-888-ENSIGN-0 (1-888-367-4460). Fax 780-955-6160. Email: [email protected].

emPloyment oPPortunities

TECHNICIAN REQUIRED. Bow Valley Ford, Canmore, Alberta. Great working conditions in a very busy shop with great rates & full benefits package. Contact Joe Hawkeye, 403-679-2270. Fax 403-679-2271. Email: [email protected].

cAreer oPPortunity

medicAl trAnscriPtion

instructor CanScribe Career College offers one of the top Medical Transcription programs in Canada and we are seeking an onsite instructor to join our team. You will work under the direction of our Senior Academic Officer to help ensure the success of our student body. You take pride in your work and love helping people succeed. You have graduated from a recognized MT program and have at least 2 years’ experience working as an MT. QA and/or instructor experience is a definite asset.

CanScribe offers a competitive salary, benefits, profit sharing, travel opportunities and an excellent working environment. Please email your resume with cover letter and salary expectations to [email protected]

FinAnciAl serVices

If you own a home or real estate, ALPINE CREDITS will lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is NOT an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

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legAl serVices

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Lawyer Referral Service matches people with legal concerns to a lawyer in their area. Participating lawyers offer a 30 minute consultation for $25 plus tax. Regular fees follow once both parties agree to proceed with services. 604-687-3221 (Lower Mainland) or 1.800.663.1919 (Outside LM).

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Charity clay shoot aids Food

Bank


A charity clay pigeon shoot was held by the Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club on Sunday, December 5th, with pro-ceeds of $475 going to the Columbia Valley Food Bank.

Participants each shot at 50 targets, with the highest scorers getting two entries into a prize draw to win a Christmas turkey, do-nated by Lambert-Kipp Pharmacy and Vic and Darlene Thomas.

Eight turkeys were awarded through a random draw after the shoot. Entrants also had the chance to win cash in the optional 50-50 square draw and other additional competitions.

For the square draw, all who paid the $10 entry fee wrote their names on a square grid. A single shot was fired at the grid and the person whose name was in the grid with the most pellet holes won 50 percent of the money contributed, with the rest going to the Food Bank. Entry fees, lunch fees and a non-perishable donation from each shooter were also given to the Food Bank.


FAITH Valley Churches

Selkirk TV & Appliance

1229-7th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6415

• Kitchenaid • Inglis

• Whirlpool • Roper

PanasonicPioneer

Cell PhonesElectronics & Service

Christian Books, Music & Misc.

By Pastor Trevor HaganLake Windermere Alliance Church

This is a common thought, and in some ways you are right. There are many good people in this world who aren’t Christian.

There are also many Christians who don’t go to church. Then, you have numerous Christians who do go to church, who are not necessarily “good” people.

Going to church is never about being good or bad. Somewhere along the way, people adopt the idea that attending church on Sundays makes a person better than someone who doesn’t. The reality is people who go to church are not “good” by virtue of attending.

More often than not, they are just as messed up as anyone else and that’s why they go to church. When we own the fact that we make mistakes, do things that would not make God proud of us, or treat people in a less-than-gracious manner, we acknowledge that we need His help. We are not able to live the life God desires for us by going it alone.

Going to church will not make us good, but it will help us to grow. You may be a very good person, and you may live a good life. But how will you sustain your spiritual growth and development without ongo-ing input?

It’s a bit like taking a seed and putting it in soil and leaving it there. Will it grow? Probably. In fact, it may even develop into a small shrub with the help of rain, dew, and fresh air.

But over time, the shrub will become stunted in its growth. The dead leaves and branches that dry out in the winter will start choking out new growth that wants to start in the spring.

What if that shrub had been tended by a gardener who clipped away the dead leaves, pruned the branch-es, and watered, fed, and nurtured it? It would thrive and probably be in full flower every spring, constantly growing into a masterpiece in the garden.

You may well be aware of some dead leaves and stunted growth in your own life. Maybe it’s time to return your shrub to the gardener for some tending.

This is how Jesus taught us about the importance of abiding in Him. God is our gardener, Jesus is like the vine, and we are the branches. How can a branch sustain itself if it’s not connected to the vine?

“Remain in me, and I will remain in you,” Jesus said. (John 15:1-17)

The church is the place where we can abide and constantly be reminded of God’s truth and love, both in our time with Him and in our time with others. Maybe you never truly entered into a committed love relationship with Jesus, claiming Him as your Savior and recognizing your need for Him.

Exploring what that means and understanding just how much God loves you means going back to church. Then maybe you won’t just be good; you will be better, because God desires so much more for us than we settle for.

Reasons people don’t go to church: I don’t have to go to church to be a good person

Knights of ColumbusLive Nativity Presentation

Sunday, December 12th 6:30 p.m.

712 12th Avenue Catholic Church

Refreshments served.Thanks to the Mckeen, Downey and Tuft

families for providing the animals. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and CWL.

Everybody Welcome

Lake WIndeRmeRe aLLIance chuRch Sunday, December 12th, 10:30 a.m.: Worship and Life Instruction,

“Do You See What I See (Through God’s Eyes)?...Mighty God”... Pastor Trevor ministering.

“K.I.D.S.” Church, for Children ages 3 to 12 during the Morningservice.

7 p.m.: “SING and CELEBRATE at L.W.A.C.Pastor Trevor hagan • 326 - 10th avenue, Invermere

250-342-9535 • www.lakewindermerealliance.org

WIndeRmeRe VaLLey ShaRed mInISTRyanGLIcan-unITed

10:30 a.m.: Morning Prayer at Christ Church Trinity, Invermere110 - 7th avenue, Invermere

250-342-6644 • www.wvsm.info or www.christchurchtrinity.com

VaLLey chRISTIan aSSembLySunday 10 a.m.: Worship and Word

Kids’ Church provided.Interim Pastor Joe martinsen

4814 highway 93/95, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

Roman caThoLIc chuRch

Saturday: 5 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Mission in Canal Flats and 7 p.m. at Canadian Martyrs’ Church in Invermere

Sunday: 9 a.m. at Canadian Martyrs’ Church in Invermere11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Radium

Father James mchugh 712 -12th ave., Invermere • 250-342-6167

ST. PeTeR’S LuTheRan mISSIon oF InVeRmeRe

Worship services every Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Christ Church Trinity, 110 - 7th Ave., Invermere Pastor Rev. Fraser coltman • 1-866-426-7564

RadIum chRISTIan FeLLoWShIPSunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Thursday 7 p.m. Fun NightPastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 no. 4, 7553 main St. Radium • 250-347-9937

chuRch oF JeSuS chRIST oF LaTTeR-day SaInTSWorship Service, Sunday 10 a.m. • Sunday School, 11 a.m.

• Relief Society, Noon.President barry Pratt • columbia Valley branch

5014 Fairway, Fairmont hot Springs • 250-341-5792

What is Your Favourite Holiday Recipe?

� e Pioneer wants to hear your most delicious holiday recipe. Grandma’s fruitcake, cookies for Santa,

or eggnog pudding – the pie’s the limit!

Submit your recipe by 12 noon on December 13th to…

N EW S PA P E R

Phone: 250-341-6299 • Fax: (250) 341-6229Email: [email protected]

8, 1008 – 8th Avenue, Invermere BC


14 Days of ChristmasDecember 11th – 24th

20% - 40% OFFWith Daily Specials for You!

Footwear • Men’s Wear • Ladies’ Wear • Fabrics

Stop by Essentials and pick up your calendar of Christmas Specials

729 - 12th Street, Invermere Phone: 250-342-9313

We’re Giving It All Away!

We’re Giving It All Away!14 Days of Christmas

20% - 40% OFF

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