New MABC chief tours East Kootenay

Forming relationships: MABC president Pierre Gratton, with Elk Valley Coal community and governmental affairs manager Nic Milligan, and MABC Environment, health and safety VP Gavin Dirom.

The Mining Association of British Columbia’s new president and CEO, Pierre Gratton, recently toured the East Kootenay. Pierre Gratton started was with the Mining Association of Canada for nine years. Most recently, he was vice-president, sustainable development and public affairs.

“Gratton visited three of Elk Valley Coal Corporation’s mines: Elkview, Fording River, and Coal Mountain. He was struck with the scope of the mines, impressed with their safety records, and with the source of pride employees had in their work”.

“I was also struck with how the employees care about their community and what happens here”, he says. Elk Valley Coal takes part in many community events, is often a sponsor, and also cares about its employees, giving them a five-day/four-day work week. EVCC is also building two new condominium complexes in Elkford for its employees. The company wants to take a proactive approach in addressing the area’s housing shortage.

Along with meeting employees from EVCC and touring the mines, Gratton also met with others in the community: the Mayors of Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford, and Director of Area A, Mike Sosnowski. Gratton also met with Wildsight Program Manager Casey Brennan.

“Forming relationships with an end to working together is of benefit to all parties”, says Gratton. “Mining is a vibrant industry-the second largest in B.C., and the potential for this area is strong”.

Gratton also met with St. Mary’s Band Chief Sophie Pierre. “Working with First Nations is also very important, forming relationships and trust. Both partners can benefit”. Chief Pierre told Gratton how the Ktunaxa has a very good working relationship with Elk Valley Coal Corporation.

In Cranbrook, Gratton met with the Chamber President, VP, and manager. They told him how Cranbrook benefits from the mining industry, probably more than people realize. Cranbrook is the regional service hub for the area. Many of the suppliers and contractors for the mines are in Cranbrook. People from the Elk Valley also come to shop here, use the hospital, college, and other facilities.

Gratton says the best part of his trip was meeting the people. As president and CEO of MABC, he wants to have a good feel for issues in the different parts of the province, and to develop face-to-face relationships with people involved in and affected by mining. MABC is based in Vancouver, but now has a community relations director in Cranbrook Diana J. Scott who is representing the Kootenay Region.

For more on the MABC, go to www.mining.bc.ca.

Kaslo historic hotel springing back to life

Grand Design: The Kaslo Hotel is being remodeled to reflect the town’s history.
—photo by Keith Powell

Work is underway to transform the historic Kaslo Hotel into a modern-day hotel while still retaining its heritage value and signficance.

One of the business partners Geoff Beer told Kootenay Business, “We have 11 hotels rooms on the second floor and 1 suite/ 1 bedroom apartment of 650 feet on the 3rd floor for rent. The other three condos on the third floor are owners suites for the business partners.

The main floor has a pub/ bar; restaurant meeting room and by next spring a brewery. The brew/ pub will only house a 5 hectolitre system on the main floor. The basement will house the aging tanks and all the equipment for the building.

Heating and cooling is all with ground source heat pumps from wells on the site..We have been at it for about 18 months or so and getting closer to completion each day; but can not really predict when that might actually be.”

The new owners have tried to keep the heritage look of the place even though it is a 21st century building. Well-known designer is Robert Inwood; the man who is known in Nelson for all the heritage designs there. The interior will reflect the same feel of the old times but be very up to date in services offered.

The hotel is privately owned; principle owners being John & Susan Eckland from Nevada. Geoff Beer is a partner; and will mange the project with their son Tom Eckland.

There has been a hotel on that site in Kaslo since 1896. I think there have been at least five different buildings on that site over the years. Many of the early ones were destroyed by fire, as with many of the early western towns. They have had many different names as well; The Kaslo; The Kaslo Hotel are a couple.

The building we started with was built in 1951 and was last called the Mariner Inn.
We took it down to the concrete and steel framework to do our renovation. We have added a floor but it is still not as tall as it was back in the day when each floor was 12 feet tall. The condemed building that was there before the 1951 structure housed 150 Japanese-Canadian internees during WW II.

Part of the renovation will have 3 large information boards on the sidewalk side of the building; explaining Kaslo's history; the hotel's site history and the internment history. There was a brewery in Kaslo in the 1890's but not at this location; it was farther down Front Street. The new owners are going to call our place The Kaslo Hotel and Brewery. They are shooting for a soft opening later this fall and a grand opening in the spring.

Mow and Snow changes hands

The Team: Mow and Snow has lots of experience and a wide range of commercial grade lawn care/landscaping equipment including a Bobcat (with auger, hoe, bucket and power sweeping attachments).
—photo courtesy Mow and Snow

After six successful years spent establishing and building up Mow and Snow, Chris Herron has sold the company and moved on to ventures new.

The new (delighted!) owner is Duncan Maisels, a 48-year-old Canadian (ok, ok, originally from the UK), Dunc was drawn to the Elk valley from a mixed (some might say feckless!) background of European mountains, African adventure, financial district computing and ocean travel. He and his pal Spike are full time (and fully licenced) Fernie residents for eight years now and are thrilled to be joining the business community!

Source: Fernie Chamber Newsletter

College ready for new school year

Ready to Learn: This student is getting a head start by purchasing her books at the College Bookstore before Orientation Day, Sept. 2.

The gym floor has been resurfaced, the touch-up painting has been done,
new study rooms have been added in the library, the faculty have their
course outlines finished and the staff is busy with scheduling, registering and supplying support services to all departments. The College of the Rockies is prepared for the start of the 2008/09 school year on Tuesday, Sept. 2.

Recruitment Officer Marilyn Christensen noted, "We have a number of events planned for Welcome Week including fun volleyball, disc golf and soccer tournaments. Students will have the opportunity to try out the climbing wall as well, or sign up for the river rafting, or take part in the information sessions for our Avalanche golf and volleyball teams. We try to make their introduction to college life as much fun as possible.”

For more information on Welcome Week go to www.cotr.bc.ca/orientation.

Selkirk College students benefit from SkiAreas Association donation

DONATION: Jimmie Spencer (R) and Bob Falle.

Jimmie Spencer, CEO and president of the Canada West Ski Areas Association (right), presents a cheque for $10,000 to Bob Falle, chair of the School of Hospitality & Tourism at Selkirk College. The funds will go towards the Canada West Ski Areas Association Scholarship Endowment, which is annually awarded to four students of the Ski Resort Operations & Management program at Selkirk College.

Upgrades to the Cranbrook Underpass Bridge will begin this fall

“This upgrade will reduce the risk of further deterioration of the underpass, making our roads safer for residents and visitors,” said East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett. “It’s important to ensure the safety of travellers and make sure the underpass is a stable, reliable structure for years to come.”

Cortez Construction Ltd., located in Kamloops, won with a bid of $295,406.

The underpass, located on Highway 3/95 at the northeast end of Cranbrook, has been identified as being in need of rehabilitation. Work will include concrete pier cap rehabilitation and deck joint replacement.

Work is scheduled to begin on September 3, 2008 and be completed on October 24, 2008.

There will be potential traffic delays during construction. Public will be notified via www.DriveBC.com as well as notification in local papers and radio.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort unveils new Draft Master Plan

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort unveiled a new Draft Master Plan during a series of Open House sessions in Golden, BC, earlier this month.

Proposed plans include an attractive destination resort that will be capable of sustaining the summer and winter activities that are needed for longer term overnight guests and local recreational enthusiasts. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort also proposes developing a signature 18-hole golf course which will greatly enhance lodging through the summer season.

The Draft Master Plan is posted on the government of British Columbia website.

The public are welcome to provide detailed feedback an input on the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort to the Province of British Columbia through to September 15th, 2008. These open forums are an important step in the process and an opportunity to review the revised Draft Master Plan.

Invest Kootenay comes to Kaslo

Downtown: The original research conducted by Invest Kootenay indicated the majority (>70 %) of out of area investors/new business people came to the area originally as tourists or to visit family and friends.
—photo by Linda Powell

The Village of Kaslo and the Kaslo and Area Chamber of Commerce have invited Invest Kootenay to make a presentation to local businesses and residents on Friday September 5 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Selkirk College in Kaslo, as part of plans to expand Invest Kootenay’s successful partnership promoting investment throughout the Kootenays.

The Invest Kootenay Partnership was established to pursue, jointly, efficiently and effectively, local and regional economic development initiatives aimed at attracting out of area investment. Invest Kootenay is currently a partnership of Castlegar, Nelson, Creston, Grand Forks, Revelstoke, and Community Futures. The Invest Kootenay Partnership began in Nelson and Castlegar in 2004.

“We believe that the Kaslo area could benefit significantly by joining the Invest Kootenay partnership,” said Dawn Lang, president of the Kaslo and Area Chamber of Commerce. “Potential business owners, residents and investors need the quality and availability of information Invest Kootenay develops to make good decisions about relocation to our area.”

More degree opportunities for COTR students in Australia

LEARNING ABROAD: Rachel Butz (left) and Kali Love were the first College of the Rockies students to promote their two-year COTR diploma into a bachelor’s degree at Griffith University in Australia.

An agreement between College of the Rockies and Griffith University in Queensland, Australia enables COTR diploma students to block transfer into a number of programs offered by Griffith. Griffith University has recently accepted two more of COTR’s programs that will now be eligible for degrees, in addition to the nine they already accept: Early Childhood Education and Adventure Tourism Business Operations.

COTR International Director Patricia Bowron noted, “Our University Studies, Business and some Tourism programs are already transferable to many universities and university colleges in Canada and the US but this agreement with Griffith adds an international option to our students. Griffith University has five campuses located in the Brisbane – Gold Coast corridor on Queensland’s eastern coast.”

Rachel Butz and Kali Love were the first College of the Rockies students to test the waters by transferring to the Brisbane Campus after completing two years in the Criminal Justice and University Studies programs respectively at COTR in 2006. Both received their Bachelor degrees after successfully completing their year of studies at Griffith.

“My year at Griffith was both rewarding and exciting,” commented Kali Love. “Not only did I get to experience new people and a different culture, but I was also able to obtain my degree in a shorter amount of time. Because the Australian degree is totally transferrable in Canada and other countries, I was able to start looking for a job upon my return and within three months I had been offered a full-time job in the field in which I had majored.”

For more information on overseas educational opportunities go to www.cotr.bc.ca/cotr-International.

Roca Mines encouraged by progress and plans further development and expansion

Roca Mines Inc. has reported on its operations and development activities at the MAX Molybdenum Project near Revelstoke, British Columbia. Production of molybdenum (contained in concentrate) for the months of April and May, 2008 was 125,243 lbs and 150,502 lbs, respectively;

Management is encouraged by the mine's ability to achieve targeted daily molybdenum production rates when all operations were functioning as planned. Improvement of the operation's ability to achieve the targeted throughput rates and head grade on a continuous basis remains a priority with targeted monthly production rates of 300,000 lbs by the end of June and 600,000 lbs by fall 2008 being anticipated.

Adit #2 development was completed in early May 2008, and work is underway to establish an upgraded ventilation system for the mine. Once connected, the underground mine will be capable of achieving its Phase II ventilation requirements.

The Company is constructing foundations in preparation for a new mill base for its third ball mill. The installation of this mill will allow for greater production flexibility and will provide for a nominal capacity of at least 1,000 tonnes per day. The new equipment is to be commissioned by the fall of 2008. A concentrate drying system is now substantially installed and, once operational, will assist in controlling moisture content in the molybdenite concentrates produced.

FortisBC customers ‘go paperless’ with eBill service

FortisBC customers now have the option of receiving their electricity bill via email with FortisBC’s new eBill service. It’s a fast, easy and environmentally-friendly way for customers to access their electricity bill when they want, where they want.

“FortisBC is committed to offering customers convenient and easy-to-use online services,” said Mark Warren, Director of Customer Service for FortisBC. “We expect many of our customers to take advantage of this free, easy-to-use service.”

Customers can sign up for eBIll service online at www.fortisbc.com, or by calling 1-866-4FORTIS (1-866-436-7847).

Other online self-serve options allow customers to sign up for a new account, change account information, or register for automatic and equal payment plans.

FortisBC’s website also includes information on FortisBC PowerSense’s energy efficiency programs, which aim to help customers conserve energy by providing both financial incentives and advice on energy efficient technologies and practices.

Roxul signs agreement to purchase Canpar site

BETTER INSULATION: Roxul’s energy efficiency insulation products make sizable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, by saving up to 100 times the energy used in their production.
—photo courtesy Roxul Inc.

Roxul Inc., has announced that the company has signed a purchase agreement for Canpar Industries buildings and land in Grand Forks. The agreement includes 21 acres of land and 150,000 square feet of warehouse buildings that are adjacent to Roxul’s current facility.

“The new warehouse space will allow us to streamline our storage needs in western Canada, and also allows for expansion of production should that decision be made in the future,” said Trent Ogilvie, president, Roxul Inc. “The purchase agreement is a continuation of Roxul’s commitment to be a long-term corporate citizen and employer in the Grand Forks community.”

The purchase agreement is subject to normal due diligence and is anticipated to close on September 15th, 2008. Roxul has been operating in Grand Forks since 1999 and over the last nine years has more than doubled the number of employees to approximately 150. Roxul is committed to ensuring the viability of its Grand Forks facility, and has invested over $50 million in modernization upgrades.

Roxul Inc., located in Milton, Ontario, and Grand Forks, British Columbia, is part of Rockwool International, the world's largest producer of mineral wool insulation with 23 facilities in 15 countries. Roxul's products are fire resistant, water repellent, non-corrosive, and resistant to mold, fungi and bacteria growth. Roxul’s energy efficiency insulation products make sizable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, by saving up to 100 times the energy used in their production.

CBT donates $20,000 to Selkirk College

CBT presentation: Wally Penner and Pat Henman.

Wally Penner, VP of Community Partnerships at Columbia Basin Trust (CBT), presented a cheque for $20,000 to Pat Henman, Donor development coordinator at Selkirk College, in support of this year’s College Community Service Awards. The awards are designed to assist mature students of the Columbia Basin in pursuing post-secondary education/training and are based on volunteer service in the community.

New owners take over and expand Nelson Box Office

Edwin and Lin Arnold, recently of Cornwall, England, have purchased Nelson Box Office and Copy Centre on Front Street in Nelson.

In addition to offering regular business services, such as Internet, fax, printer, scanner and courier services the Arnold’s plan to expand the business by offering custom framing as well.

The British couple moved to Nelson on the provincial nominee program which fast-tracks immigrants if they start a new business or expand an existing one.

www.nelsonboxoffice.ca

Source: Nelson Express Newspaper

Nelson power play

Generation: Nelson Hydro owns and operates a 16 MW hydroelectric generation facility located at Bonnington Falls on the Kootenay River 16 km southwest of Nelson.
—photo courtesy www.city.nelson.bc.ca

Nelson Hydro, the power utility owned by the City of Nelson has entered into an innovative agreement with NorthPoint Energy Inc., (www.northpointenergy.com) to sell electricity on the open market.

Alex Love, Nelson Hydro’s new general manager, told the Nelson Express newspaper that the utility would sell electricity when the going rate is greater than the cost of buying power from West Kootenay-based FortisBC.

NorthPoint Energy is a whole-owned subsidy of SaskPower of Regina, Saskatchewan. NorthPoint Energy gleans a 15 per cent commission on all power sales it handles for Nelson Hydro. SaskPower is a crown corporation owned by the Government of Saskatchewan.

The first nine days of power sales grossed Nelson Hydro almost $20,000.

Source: Nelson Express Newspaper

CBT donates to college

GENEROUS DONATION:Lois Murray (L), College of the Rockies financial aid and awards officer, accepts a cheque for $20,000 from Wally Penner, vice-president Community Partnerships for Columbia Basin Trust.

College of the Rockies Financial Aid and Awards Officer Lois Murray accepted a cheque for $20,000 from Wally Penner, vice-president Community Partnerships for Columbia Basin Trust.

The money is used for Columbia Basin Trust’s College Community Service Awards. These awards are designed to assist mature students attending post-secondary education/training and to reward and encourage the volunteerism of Columbia Basin residents.

Applications are available in the spring each year. For more information go to: www.cotr.bc.ca/FinancialAid.

Score Golf Magazine visits the region

Ready for Take Off: (L to R) Steve (Kootenay Valley Helicopters), Jason Groshak & Hal Quinn (Score Golf).

Hal Quinn and Jason Groshak from Score Golf Magazine recently visited a number of golf courses in the Kootenay Rockies to research for a feature in the July 2008 issue.

They were treated to superb golf, spectacular views and speedy transportation via Kootenay Valley Helicopters service from the Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) to Kokanee Springs Golf Resort and Balfour Golf Club.

They also played Bootleg Gap Golf, St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino and Trickle Creek Golf Resort and met with representatives from Wildstone (in Cranbrook).

Source: Kootenay Rockies Tourism e-Newsletter

Tembec partners with ‘YES 2 IT’ trades exposure program

Tembec has announced that it is partnering in the Youth Exploring Skills to Industry Training (YES 2 IT). This new awareness program for grades six to nine students provides an opportunity to experience some of the hands-on skills used in a variety of trade occupations and make connections with tradespersons in their communities. Tembec is pleased to welcome 45 grade nine students from Selkirk school in Kimberley, and Parkland and Laurie schools in Cranbrook, who will tour its Cranbrook campus to work on welding, carpentry and electrical projects.

“In a context of shortage of qualified labour and challenging demographics, trades careers offer great lifetime work opportunities,” said Jean-Luc Carriere, senior vice-president, Forest Products Group—British Columbia. “Working in an industry that is truly sustainable, that constitutes a significant mitigating stewardship, students have the opportunity to have a hands-on experience and be in a better position to decide about their future. The forest industry, despite the current context, will rebound. Our children's future starts now and Tembec is proud to contribute to a great future for British Columbia.”

Incoming students need affordable housing

Incoming students are contacting Selkirk College for help as they embark on a fruitless search for suitable, affordable housing in the region.

“Between 2001 and 2006 the number of rental households declined by more than eight per cent in Central Kootenay and over 15 per cent in Kootenay Boundary, both significantly higher than the provincial decline of 3.6 per cent,” explained George Penfold, Regional Innovation Research Chair for Rural Economic Development, “This indicates a decline in rental housing stock and that presents a challenge for students coming into the area.”

The Silver King campus currently maintains a student housing list for students that will be attending the Nelson campuses; Silver King, Tenth Street and Kootenay School of the Arts. The Castlegar campus has also started a housing list, since the Kekuli Residence now has a wait list.

According to long time residents Glenn and Gail, providing housing for students has some valuable and interesting perks. “We have been on the Selkirk College housing list since 1999. We really like the students’ company, energy, and the contribution they make to our community,” said Gail. “They are our future, after all.”

Selkirk College is encouraging all Castlegar, Nelson, and surrounding community residents that are interested in providing students with a place to live, to contact the college to have their name added to the housing list. Please call 250-352-6601 in Nelson, 250-365-1273 in Castlegar or email housing@selkirk.ca.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism Industry Conference

This year’s Kootenay Rockies Tourism Industry Conference and 31st Annual General Meeting will take place at Panorama Mountain Village on Thursday, September 18th.

The day will be filled with AGM activities, the Year-In-Review, Guest Speakers and a social and dinner to follow the day's business events.

A fun, casual ‘Texas Scramble’ golf tournament will take place in the afternoon on September 17th at Grewolf Golf Course.

Source: Kootenay Rockies Tourism e-Newsletter

Long time Invermere business changes hands

A well-known landmark business, Penner Family Footwear, in downtown Invermere is set to change ownership come the end of August.

Penner Family Footwear owned by Vic and Lil Penner since 1975 is being sold to Richard and Jocelyn Brunner of Invermere.

Known as one of the best shoe stores in the area, Penner’s was often a shoe shopping destination for families throughout the Windermere and Kootenay valleys. The Penners plan to retire and move to Salmon Arm.

Source: Columbia Valley Pioneer

Teck Cominco buys Fording Canadian Coal Trust

On the forefront: Elk Valley Coal produces primarily high quality hard coking coal from its six operating mines in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, which it sells to steel mills mainly in Asia and Europe in addition to North and South America. —photo by Tanya Laing

Teck Cominco Limited has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Fording Canadian Coal Trust (“Fording”) under which Teck will acquire 100 per cent of Fording’s assets, which consist principally of a royalty in respect of Fording’s 60 per cent non-operating interest in the Elk Valley Coal Partnership (“Elk Valley Coal”).

Teck will pay approximately US $12.4 billion in cash and issue approximately 36.9 million Teck Class B subordinate voting shares in consideration for the Fording assets. The cash portion of the consideration is expected to be primarily funded by a US $9.8 billion fully underwritten bridge and term loan facility arranged with a syndicate of banks and the proceeds of the sale of Fording units held by Teck prior to closing.

Elk Valley Coal is the world’s second largest producer of seaborne hard coking coal. Elk Valley Coal produces primarily high quality hard coking coal from its six operating mines in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada which it sells to steel mills mainly in Asia and Europe in addition to North and South America. Teck is the managing partner of Elk Valley Coal and owns a 52 per cent effective interest in the partnership through its 40 per cent direct interest in the partnership and its 19.9 per cent interest in Fording units.

Teck’s CEO, Don Lindsay said: “This is a very important transaction for Teck, Fording and Elk Valley Coal. Fording unitholders are receiving a significant premium to the Fording unit price during a time when comparable coal companies have declined substantially from their highs. In addition, our detailed knowledge of the assets and the coking coal markets means that the ownership transition and integration will be seamless. For Teck, the transaction is expected to be immediately and strongly accretive to both earnings and cash flow.”

Mr. Lindsay added: “Based on expectations that the rate of growth in demand for metallurgical coal, especially the high quality coking coal that Elk Valley Coal produces, will continue to outpace relatively constrained growth in supply, we believe that the outlook for this business is strong. We look forward to having Fording unitholders become Teck shareholders and believe they will benefit greatly from ongoing exposure not only to the metallurgical coal business but the outstanding long term value represented by our diversified portfolio of assets.”

Teck has also entered into an agreement with an affiliate of the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board (“Teachers”) under which Teachers, in order to facilitate the transaction, has agreed to amend Teck’s “top-up” obligations in connection with Teck’s September 2007 acquisition of 11.25 per cent of the outstanding Fording units from Teachers. Teachers will, on completion of the transaction, receive compensation of US$105 million for amending its rights, which would have otherwise expired on July 31, 2008. Closing of the transaction is expected to occur by the end of October, 2008. www.teckcominco.com

New faces at Kootenays Rockies Tourism

New faces: (Clockwise from top) Simon Brown, accountant, Laurie Reed, co-ordinator, Air Partner Program and Kristin Eitzenberger, receptionist. —photos courtes Kootenay Rockies e-Newsletter

Kootenay Rockies Tourism, the regional destination marketing organization, is in expansion mode with the addition of two new staff members and a new replacement for departed long time employee.

Simon Brown is the new accountant at Kootenay Rockies, he replaces Shirley Patterson who recently retired after almost twenty years of service.

Kristen Eitzenberger is the new receptionist at Kootenay Rockies, she takes over from Heidi Korven who is now the coordinator of Partner and Community Programs.

Laurie Reed is the co-ordinator of the newly established position to spearhead the region’s Air Partner Programs. She has a mandate to market and promote Cranbrook’s newly expanded Canadian Rockies International Airport.

Selkirk College partners with Castlegar Rebels

Sealing the deal: (L to R), Gerry Gauthier, Dean, Student Development / Registrar of Selkirk College; Brent Heaven, GM / Head Coach of Castlegar Rebels; Kim Verigin, Athletic Coordinator of Selkirk College.

Selkirk College has partnered with the Castlegar Rebels to encourage young hockey players to think about post secondary education and career related training. Tuition credit worth $3,000 will be available to help players become successful student-athletes.

The college’s hockey team, the Selkirk Saints, competes in the BC Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) along with several other universities and colleges across BC. The team is a part of the collegiate hockey program which can provide a natural transition from junior hockey to varsity sports. For more information on Selkirk College's varsity teams, visit selkirk.ca/athletics.

Cherry-tree-in-a-bag, Kootenay invention

Wrapped up: Marilyn Roberts’ invention, a gauze-like cover which envelopes an entire cherry tree, protects the tree against bugs and eliminates the need to spray cherry trees with chemicals. —photo courtesy Kootenay Covers

Necessity is truly the mother of invention when it comes to cherry grower Marilyn Roberts who lives in the beautiful Kootenay community of Kaslo. Marilyn was getting tired of losing her crop of cherry to bugs and worms so she invented a gauze-like cover which envelopes an entire cherry tree. She started a company called Kootenay Covers. The invention eliminates the need to spray cherry trees with chemicals.

After eight years of research and development Marilyn Roberts believes her invention is innovative enough to patent and she is set to take the organic cherry growing market by storm. (She is also working on a similar cover for other soft fruits like grapes.) The actual covers are made to Marilyn's exacting specifications by an overshore manufacturer.

Marilyn Roberts, who is an instructor at Selkirk College, is marketing the invention to commercial and backyard gardeners where ever cherries are grown. Her Kootenay Covers are ieven garnering international attention as the following quote for the Chicago Tribune shows, “There are many ways to deal with a cherry fruit fly infestation. Some people spray the tree with powerful chemicals at the first sign of the arrival of the flies. Some people put tarps on the ground to keep the locals from emerging. A woman in the wonderfully named British Columbian region of Kootenays has invented something called Kootenay Covers, with which one covers the entire tree so nothing can get to it. Dressed in its bag, she reports, the tree's cherries can be left in place until mid- to late summer.”

For more information visit her website at www.kootenaycovers.com or phone Marilyn Roberts at 250-353-2264.

'Time Has Come' Post-FAM an enormous success!

Representing the Kootenays: Kathy Cooper (left) and Heidi Korven attended the 32nd installment of Rendez-Vous Canada.

EXPLORING THE REGION: After RVC, Kootenay Rockies Tourism hosted a post FAM tour with 14 delegates; the group visited heritage attractions in Cranbrook and Kimberley and went on a sightseeing flight over Fisher Peak.

Rendez-Vous Canada (RVC), the Canadian Tourism Commission's (CTC) premier marketplace bringing tourism buyers and sellers together for five days of meetings was held in Vancouver in late May. Attending the 32nd installment of this trade show on behalf of all the Kootenay Rockies Partners were Chris Dadson, Kathy Cooper and Heidi Korven.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism had a full schedule during the three and a half days of appointments and met with tour operators from all over the world who were seeking more information on what they could find for their clients in our region of British Columbia.

Following RVC, the Kootenay Rockies Tourism hosted a post familiarization tour with 14 delegates participating. Flying into the region on Pacific Coastal Airlines, the group spent three days exploring and learning about Geotourism, some of the new golf products and the airport expansion. They also visited the heritage attractions of Fort Steele Heritage Town, Canadian Museum of Rail Travel and Kimberley's Underground Mining Railway. As well, they all went on a thrilling sightseeing flight over Fisher Peak by helicopter!

Day trips to Fernie and Invermere/Panorama were also part of the itinerary. Using St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino as the ‘home base’, the group were able to relax and enjoy the beautiful setting and amenities at St. Eugene in between the day trips.

It was the first time to the region for all of the delegates and they were extremely impressed with the portion of the region they saw and the tourism products they experienced. Many have already indicated they will be booking future business into the Kootenay Rockies region!

Source: Kootenay Rockies e-Newsletter

College of the Rockies Board announces resignations and appointments

The Board of Governors of the College of the Rockies wishes to make the following announcements.

In early June, Board Chair Troy Sebastian advised the College Board of his resignation from the Board effective July 31, 2008. Mr. Sebastian’s resignation from the Board preceded his June 21 announcement to seek the NDP provincial nomination in the East Kootenay. Mr. Sebastian was appointed to the College Board by the Province in July 2003 and was elected to the position of Chair in September 2007.

In July Board Vice Chair Sandra Roberts also advised the College Board of her resignation from the Board effective August 31, 2008. Ms. Roberts’ resignation follows her and her family’s decision to move to Penticton in the fall. Ms. Roberts will serve as Board Acting Chair August 1 through 30, 2008. Ms. Roberts was appointed to the College Board by the Province in July 2003 and was elected to the position of Vice Chair in September 2007.

A new Board Chair and Vice Chair will be elected at the Board’s regularly scheduled meeting on September 11, 2008.

Appointed to the College of the Rockies Board of Governors through Provincial Order in Council on June 26, 2008 are Richard Reinders of Cranbrook effective June 26, 2008 and Laurie Dalzell of Golden effective July 31, 2008. Both terms end July 31, 2009.

Shoemaker Drywall plans to build new Cranbrook outlet

Bigger and Better: Shoemaker Drywall Supplies is building a new facility on Theatre Road in Cranbrook.
—photo by Keith Powell

Calgary-based Shoemaker Drywall Supplies is in expansion mode in Cranbrook. The company plans to build a new 20,000-square-foot building across the Street from Home Depot on Theatre Road in Cranbrook which will serve the entire East and West Kootenay region.

The new building will replace their existing 8,000 square foot location at the west end of Cranbrook just off of Van Horn[Keith Powell] rev e Street.

Cranbrook branch manager Marcel Boudreau says they desperately need more space and anticipates the new building being ready in December 2008 as architectural plans are just being completed.

The new Shoemaker Drywall Supplies outlet will take up about two acres of the five-acre parcel. It is all part of a planned strip mall development to be built at the location.
Shoemaker Drywall completed their purchase of Lethbridge based Don’s Drywall some time ago and now has locations in eight western Canada cities including Edmonton, Kelowna, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Cranbrook, Red Deer, Grand Prairie and of course Calgary.

Southern B.C. colleges to collaborate on programs, services and planning

COLLEGE REPS: (Seated, left to right) Marilyn Luscombe, president and CEO Selkirk College, Jim Hamilton, president Okanagan College, Dr. Nick Rubidge, president and CEO College of the Rockies. (Standing, left to right) Stefan Lehmann, vice chair Selkirk College Board of Governors, Janet Shaw, chair Okanagan College Board of Governors, Troy Sebastian, chair College of the Rockies Board of Governors.

College of the Rockies, Selkirk College and Okanagan College are collaborating to provide a more integrated approach to offering educational programs and services to students in British Columbia's southern and southeastern interior regions.

Presidents of the three institutions recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding that provides the framework for a new working relationship. The MOU will allow the colleges to work together on program development and delivery, improved transfer arrangements to benefit students, student recruitment and applied research. The MOU also covers areas such as offering programs from one institution at another and international education.

"This MOU is a mutually beneficial, collaborative approach to post-secondary education in the southern and southeastern interior regions of our province and will be a vehicle to enhance opportunities for our students and continue to meet the educational and training needs of our communities," said College of the Rockies President and CEO Dr. Nick Rubidge.

"Through this agreement, we are better able to co-ordinate what we offer, how we offer it, and to maximize the opportunities for students to access the education they need." said Marilyn Luscombe, President of Selkirk College." "It is a win for our learners and for our institutions."

"Each of our three institutions can already claim considerable success in meeting community needs," said Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. "This agreement provides us the chance to share our unique programs and services and develop new opportunities for students and employers."

Any program or service agreements developed between the three institutions or among any of the signatories will be covered by separate agreements.

Together, the three colleges educated or trained a total of 11,269 full-time equivalent students in 2007-08. Their regions cover about 12 per cent of the overall area of the province and take in about 12.7 per cent of the province's population (550,890 of 4.31 million people).

Soy-based insulation offered in Nelson

Jesse Ewing is the owner of Ewing Insolutions Inc., a new Nelson-based company offering a line of soy-based spray foam insulation. The insulation is made of soy oil and recycled plastic which quickly solidifies into a “closed cell foam” that’ full of millions of air bubbles that gives the foam a R-7 per inch insulation value, Ewing told the Nelson Express newspaper.

The spray foam is good for older home and new builds as well. With three inches of foam in the walls and four inches in the ceiling, Ewign says a home will be totally sealed. Combined with the proper ventilation system, he says a homeowner can use far less energy to heat their home. For more more info, call (250) 551-3100.

Source: Nelson Express

Invermere to be home to Sushi Fubuki

Mouthwatering sushi fans are eagerly anticipating the opening of Invermere’s first sushi restaurant in late August. The new restaurant will be located in the Chisel Peak Medical Centre building near Sobey’s.

The restaurant, which will be named Sushi Fubuki (“fubuki” means “snowstorm” in Japanese), is the result of a partnership between Panorama residents Patrick and Cheri Hasburgh, and former Invermere resident Haru Watanabe.

Haru Watanabe is currently a sushi chef at a restaurant in Banff and will re-locate to the Windermere Valley when the restaurant opens. Construction work will proceed over the summer.

Source: Columbia Valley Pioneer

Mustard Seed becomes Spring Health Foods

Renamed: Mustard Seed Health Foods in Invermere is now called Spring Health Foods. —www.invermere.com photo

Spring Health Foods is the new name for long-time Invermere business Mustard Seed Health Foods. Although owner Spring Hawes has always taken pride in being environmentally and socially aware, she and her staff have recently undergone a business ‘re-vamp’ (hence the new name), and as a result, realized we need to let our customers know what we are doing to support our commitment to the environment.

Here is their "green statement..."

• We sell organic, natural and/or chemical free products.
• We carry natural and bio-degradable cleaning products, body and personal care products.We purchase inventory and business products and services as locally as possible.
• We never buy grocery bags – our customers bring us their used ones.
• We recycle everything possible.
• We compost ‘old’ produce, or pass it on to customers with farm animals.
• We use bio-degradable cleaning products.
• We turn off every appliance possible when not in use.
• We support the Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens & Center for Sustainable living by selling certified organic, BC grown garden seeds as a fundraiser for them.
• We encourage and support our customers in their environmental efforts.
• We have ordered ethically-sourced re-usable shopping bags. (Fairware.ca)
• We’ve made a commitment to purchase recycled paper products, and energy-saving light-bulbs. (see Frogfile.ca as a source for environmentally-friendly office supplies)
• We’ve asked our suppliers and business associates to use e-mail where-ever possible, rather than fax or paper mail.

Many of these ideas came from the employees, who are enthusiastic about the environment. They are the ones who have taken the initiative to compost waste, pass on ruined food to farmer customers, etc. By involving everyone, and being open and receptive to new suggestions, ideas, and products, we will continue to evolve in a sustainable, environmentally aware manner.

CBT announces support for 34 environmental projects

The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) has awarded $349,984 in support of 34 new Basin-wide projects through its Environmental Initiatives Program (EIP).

The EIP provides support to community-initiated and supported environmental projects that aim to reduce the impacts humans have on local and regional ecosystems. The CBT increased funding to the Program by $54,424 this year.

"The boost in EIP funding means CBT is able to do more to support aquatic, terrestrial, and education projects that foster healthier, more environmentally-conscious communities in the Columbia Basin," said Wally Penner, CBT's VP of Community Partnerships. "An important element of the selection process was to identify projects that address clear community needs, or provide opportunities for community involvement - whether that's through a training workshop or helping with the restoration of a stream."

The EIP is carried out in partnership with The Columbia Kootenay Fisheries Renewal Partnership, The Land Conservancy of BC, and the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network.

See what Freddie sees . . . Whiskey Jack Resort update

Construction has been moving forward since April. Holes are taking shape and sales have just begun for Phase 1 at the Whiskey Jack Resort in Sparwood, B.C. Lots are starting in the low $130,000's; many of which back on to Fred Couple's Signature Golf Course. The course offers five tee-off boxes ranging from Freddi'e "Boom Boom" boxes down to the resort tees, all of which offer diverse challenges for players of all levels. Throughout the course, you are surrounded by the breathtaking scenes of the Rocky Mountains, the naturally treed environment and the numerous water features.

The lifestyle offered in this resort community will be one you can enjoy throughout the seasons. Ranging from golf, mountain biking, running and walking trails, cross-country skiing and snow shoeing—all just a step away from your home! The resort will offer four-star dining, a luxurious spa and pool with many other activities and attractions planned throughout the development.

For more information call us at 250-425-0054 or stop by our Discovery Centre located on Arbitus Road. We welcome you to drop in. North America toll free: (888) 435-4727. E-mail: info@whiskeyjackresort.com. Website: www.WhiskeyJackResort.com

Source: Fernie Chamber of Commerce newsletter

What the Huck—Huckleberry wheat bear now on tap

To celebrate the summer and Fernie's prized Huckleberry picking season, Fernie Brewing Company has come up with a delicious Huckleberry Wheat Beer called What the Huck. They've blended Wild Huckleberries with wheat to create a smooth and creamy beer, with a light touch of Huckleberries.

But get it quick, because just like Fernie's prized huckleberries, it's only available for a limited time. What the Huck? Give it a try. Available on tap at Fernie's many fine restaurants and bars.

Catch a Brewery Tour, Fridays at 3 p.m. Call 250-423-7797 to book.

Source: Fernie Chamber of Commerce newsletter

Rayco Steel expands in Sparwood

NEW AND IMPROVED: Rayco Steel's new facility is located in Sparwood's Industrial Park on Michel Creek Road.
—photo by Keith Powell

Rayco Steel in Sparwood recently completed a large-scale expansion of their industrial service operations. The company is owned and operated by president Robert Ray and operation manager Bret Ray. The new steel building features three large overhead doors and houses the company's expanding machining, fabricating and welding business. Rayco is a major supplier and contractor to the mining industry in the Elk Valley.

The new facility is located in Sparwood's Industrial Park on Michel Creek Road. According the BC Manufacturers Directory published by BC Stats Rayco Steel employs over 20 people.

New Fernie dental office construction well underway

BIGGER AND BETTER: The new Mountain View Dental Clinic will offer more room and the latest in dental technology.
—photo by Keith Powell

Fernie Dentist Dan Demmings is building a brand new office in the city. Dr. Demmings' practice is called Mountain View Dental Clinic. The new dental clinic is located right beside Fernie Sports just off of Fernie’s main thoroughfare on Hwy. #3. In fact, the new clinic is being built on what used to be Fernie Sports parking lot.

The expanded clinic will offer more room and the lastest in dental technology for clients. The construction of the eye-catching new building is slated to take place over the Spring and Summer with the goal of moving in by the Fall.

For more information contact Mountain View Dental at 250-423-7764.

New computer support business starts up

GreenFir Technologies is a new computer support business which is now servicing the Kootenay region. It is owned and operated by Chris Thomas and Wesley Render. GreenFir focuses on providing businesses with enterprise class technology support. Some of the services and products that GreenFir Technologies provides include: wireless networks, phone systems, computer networks and computer support. They also provide web hosting, graphic design and web development services.

GreenFir Technologies will be releasing free monthly articles about how to improve your business computer systems and network. If you have multiple offices in your company, these are a must read! Please visit www.greenfir.com/articles to view the articles.

Contact GreenFir Technologies at 250-423-3229 or toll free at 877-423-3225.

Latte anyone?

TAKE A COFEE BREAK: Assistant manager Brad Williams welcomes customers to Cranbrook’s new Starbucks.
—photo by Keith Powell

Cranbrook is enjoying the Kootenays first free-standing Starbucks Coffee, which opened in the city in late June. The new Starbucks Coffee Company store is operated by manager Lisa Gaudreault, assistant manager Brad Williams and a staff of some 20 employees.

Cranbrook's 1,600-square-foot Starbucks is located in a newly constructed building built by local Cranbrook contractor Steeples Construction. It is on Cranbrook’s busy strip (Cranbrook Street) and sits between McDonalds and Golf Etc. The attractive coffee outlet features a Kootenay-motif decor and an outdoor patio.

There are more than 7,000 corporate-owned Starbucks in the U.S. and more than 4,000 licensed operators. There are 1,796 company-operated stores in other countries, including Canada and 2,792 joint venture or licensed stores internationally.

Starbucks Coffee Company was founded in 1971, opening its first store in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Starbucks, named after the first mate in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, is the world’s leading retailer, roaster and brand of specialty coffee with millions of customer visits per week at stores in North America, Europe, Middle East, Latin America and the Pacific Rim.

Copper Point Resort to use geothermal heating

In what may be a first in the Kootenays, Copper Point Resort is tapping into geothermal energy. One of the unique environmental features of the Copper Point Resort will be its' use of geothermal energy in their indoor and outdoor pools, spas, restaurant and commercial areas.

The ultimate source of geothermal energy is from the radioactive decay that occurs deep within the Earth's crust. The Columbia Valley, home to both the world famous Radium and Fairmont Hot Springs, provides an ideal geographical location to exploit the use of these relatively shallow geothermal resources.

When these geothermal resources are available, it is then possible to distribute hot water or steam to multiple buildings. This technique is known as geothermal district heating.

"We are very fortunate that the Copper Point Resort is located in such a great geothermal area of the country," said Dean Forbes, one of the resort's founding directors and active managing partner. "By using geothermal technology, both our environmental footprint and our associated energy costs will be significantly lower. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved. Because of this great feature, we will be able to offer a 12-month season for our outdoor pool. It's going to be a real positive feature to relax in the resort's outdoor pool in the winter months, with the snow falling down, after a great day of skiing."

Earth Source, an Edmonton based company, is in charge of the Copper Point Resort geothermal installation. The budget for the project is estimated at $1.6M dollars.

Although expensive to install initially, geo-exchange systems save money in the long run because they require much less maintenance. In addition to being highly reliable, they are built to last for decades and can add considerably to the resale value of a structure. Geothermal energy is one of the few renewable energy technologies that-like fossil fuels-can supply continuous, base load power.

COTR and Havaday Developments enter a partnership for contract training

OWNERS: Signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the College of the Rockies and Havaday Developments are: (back row, L to R) John Sheehan, Vice-President Project Development; Dan Gulin, Performance and Development Advisor; Susan Gulin, Human Resources Manager; Jay Savage, Chief Operations Officer. (Front row, L to R) Tracey Whiting, College of the Rockies Contract Training Manager; Dr. Nick Rubidge, COTR President and CEO; Joel Savage, President Havaday Developments; and Shayne Dysart, Vice-President Resort Operations.

College of the Rockies and Havaday Developments Inc. recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enter into a partnership for specific contract training.

Havaday is currently building a major resort development near Cranbrook called Wildstone. The master plan includes some three thousand residential single family homes and condos as well as a village centre and hotel. A spa, fitness centre, pool, boutique shopping and community recreation centre are also planned for both permanent and seasonal residents. An 18-hole Gary Player-designed golf course is already under construction.

“Wildstone will employ approximately 350 people in various capacities when the development is complete,” noted Tracey Whiting, manager of contract training and business development for College of the Rockies. “The College currently offers many courses and training in the hospitality and tourism industry which could benefit the employees of Wildstone. This MOU simply formalizes the mutually beneficial education, knowledge and skills the College can provide to Wildstone. ”

Vice-president of resort operations for Wildstone Shayne Dysart agreed.

“The College has offered to tailor their contract training to our specific needs,” said Dysart. “Together we will develop and schedule specific program and course offerings, as well as develop a collaborative process to respond to the need for curriculum development, training and expertise.”

Mountain Modern swings open doors in Nelson

OWNERS: Dallas Wolbaum (L), the owner of Mountain Modern Interior, also owns the Mountain Hound Inn in Nelson.

Wow, is all you can say when you first step inside Nelson’s newest furniture store—Mountain Modern Interior. The flashy new furniture store is located on Baker Street in Nelson’s bustling downtown core, in the Mountain Hound Inn building.

The owner and manager Dallas Wolbaum also owns the Mountain Hound Inn.

Summing up the type of furniture the store sells, sales manager Ian Ellis told the Nelson Express we are “offering a Kootenay esthetic, often using raw, natural materials.”

“If it looks like wood it is wood and if it looks like leather it is leather, Dallas Wolbaum explained to the Express.

Wolbaum and father Leroy purchased the building that houses the Mountain Hound Inn and now Mountain Modern Interior back in 2005. They have completely renovated the building—making it one of Nelson’s most eye-catching establishments.

Source: Nelson Express