Fernie, BC Canada October 30, 2008 - Island Lake Lodge is an icon in Fernie B.C. Over the last 20 years Island Lake Lodge has been recognized as one of the world's best places to ski and snowboard. Every year the Fernie Chamber of Commerce honors outstanding local businesses and individuals with awards and this year awarded Island Lake Lodge Fernie Business of the Year.

"The Chamber of Commerce organizes the annual Community and Business Awards on behalf of the community. In the past only one award nominee in each category was announced. We decided to introduce the Top 3 Nominees in each category to shine a spotlight on, and recognize more of the wonderful individuals, volunteers and businesses who have contributed so much to their community." says Lynn Flokstra, Manager Fernie Chamber of Commerce.

The Award Criteria for them Fernie Business of the Year, sponsored by GPI Chartered Accountants is that it is open to any Business or Industry located in the City of Fernie and surrounding area that has demonstrated good corporate citizenship, good business standards and ethics, and contributes in a meaningful way to the community.

"It was an honor to be nominated and then a thrill to be awarded with the Fernie Business of the Year awardÓ says Steve Kuijt, General Manager of Island Lake Lodge. ÒWe have always been supporters of local and community charities and events and are proven environmental leaders in our region." Kuijt goes onto explain.

About Island Lake Lodge- Island Lake Lodge sits above a stunning mountain lake on 7000 acres of pristine wilderness. In the winter it operates as a catskiing operation, servicing 36 guests in three snow cats. In the summer it is as a luxurious backcountry lodge, with an extensive hiking trail system, a full service mountain spa and acclaimed food and wine. Located in Fernie B.C. it is an easy 1 hour drive from the new Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook, B.C. a 2.5-hour drive from the airport in Kalispell, Montana and a 3 hour drive from Calgary International Airport in Alberta.