Invermere Valley Echo, November 25, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

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Logan Bezaire (with the sword) and Dakota Wilisky (in the tiara) pose with Frosty the Snowman inside Santa’s Den, located indoors at the old Consign-It store, as part of the Light Up celebrations that took over downtown Invermere on Saturday, November 21st. PHOTO BY BREANNE MASSEY

Market gives over $9,000 back to community STEVE HUBRECHT steve@invermerevalleyecho.com Invermere council members heard that the downtown Invermere Farmers and Artisan Market was a smash success this past summer, during a report on the market by the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. The Legion, which ran the market this past summer for the first time (having taken over the market from a different operator who ran it for nearly a decade beforehand), gave the presentation during a recent council meeting, on Tuesday, November 10th. “There’s no dispute it was quite successful for us downtown,” said Legion representative Ray Brydon, adding that over the course of the summer the downtown market had an average of 65 to 70 vendors at any given market, which included 54 full-time vendors and a rotating cast of 75 part-time vendors (only

several of which would be at the market Brydon then present two cheques to any given weekend). the district, one for about $6,200 (the The busiest weekend had almost all the district’s 40 per cent of net revenue) full-time vendors and more than 30 of the and another to reimburse the district’s 75 part-time vendors present, for a total $350 in expenses. of 84 vendors. The Legion has already allocated the Brydon presented financial state- nearly $9,300 (60 per cent of net revements for the market, which is run as a nue) it earned from the market to various non-profit organizacharitable causes, Plaudits to the tion, outlining gross which Brydon also income of just unLegion... I was down outlined to council, der $17,500; gross there many times and including $250 for the expenses of roughly Kinsmen Canada Day $2,000 ($350 of which heard nothing but positive celebrations; $2,500 was borne by the feedback. for the Columbia ValGREG ANDERSON ley Rockies commuDistrict of Invermere, DISTRICT OF INVERMERE COUNCILLOR the rest borne by the nity bus; $1,500 for Legion); and consequently, net revenue the Legion’s monthly seniors’ luncheon; of almost $15,500. $1,000 for the Summit Youth Centre; and Prior to the market, the Legion had more than $4,000 for other Legion projagreed to split the revenue from the ects. Brydon finished by asking council market with the district, with the Legion to consider spending $1,500 (of the diskeeping 60 per cent and the district get- trict’s 40 per cent share of net market ting 40 per cent. revenue) on the monthly seniors’ lun-

cheon, matching the Legion’s contribution from market funds to the luncheons. “Plaudits to the Legion. We took a chance on you (when council opted to let the Legion run the market this past spring), but you took a chance on us. I was down there many times and heard nothing but positive feedback,” said Coun. Greg Anderson. “Getting this report and these financial statements, we’ve never had that from the farmers’ market before. And to have it so quickly (less than two months after the final market day of the season) and have it so clearly laid out, this is exactly what council had envisioned for the farmers’ market.” Coun. Paul Denchuk was the lone council member to vote against letting the Legion run the market during the spring vote on the matter, but at the November 10th council meeting he congratulated the Legion on how it had run the market. See A2

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Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

Y E L L A

Snapshot MARKET from A1 “My concern at the beginning was about the transfer from one operator to another. I don’t think it was done smoothly, but that’s water under the bridge now. And at any rate, I think the district wears that (the transition not being smooth), certainly not the Legion. The Legion did a great job,” said Denchuk. Invermere mayor Gerry Taft conceded there had been some anxiety about the timing of the transfer from one market operator to another, with some people worried it may have an economic impact on downtown Invermere for the summer, but that the Legion’s efforts this summer put those worries to bed. “I think we made the right decision,” said Taft. “There’s full disclosure and transparency and that’s great. We had set those parameters and deadlines with the previous operator and they were not met. The market is held on public streets, so ideally that money generated from it should come back to the public and that’s what we’re seeing.”

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Council members asked Brydon about the possibility of moving the market to the main street (7th Avenue) on a regular basis. “I personally think that would be neat, but I don’t know if I can convince the vendors of that, especially the ones who need their vehicles behind their booths,” Brydon responded. “I think it’s worth working on the idea, if council is in favour of it, since it takes the market off the back street and onto the main street.” Taft also asked about the timing of the last market day conflicting with the Scarecrow Festival (in the past, some of the downtown market vendors had set up at the festival instead of in Invermere). Brydon responded that the Legion had made clear it would in no way penalize vendors for choosing to set up at the festival and even offered to pay the vendors’ registration fees for the festival. “We left the choice of where to set up that day totally up to them,” said Brydon. At the end of the presentation, Brydon indicated the Legion intends to submit an application to run the downtown market again in 2016.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

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LOCAL NEWS

Invermere Health Care Auxiliary recognized for helping campaign reach $1 million goal

Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

ministrator for East Kootenay, in a recent press release. For the volunteers at the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary, supporting the reThe spirit of giving in the East Kootenay gional cause was an easy decision. has become the driving force in accessing “Most of (the population of) Invermere health care. goes to (the hospital in) Cranbrook, that’s The Invermere Health Care Auxiliary why we wanted to support it,” said Paige donated $50,000 to the East Kootenay Ukass, Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Foundation for Health, along with the president. “It’s not only the Cranbrook Cranbrook Health Care Auxiliary, which area, it’s also our area and the Golden donated $450,000, and the Kimberley area because it’s our regional hospital.” Health Care Auxiliary, which donated Now, Interior Health has begun the final $90,000, to help reach the $1 million goal phase of construction for the new ICU and for critical care equipment for East Kootesome major electrical upgrades to EKRH. nay Regional Hospital’s (EKRH) new IntenThe new addition will replace the foursive Care Unit (ICU) in Cranbrook. bed unit that is currently being used and The remaining funds for the project will also include two new high-acuity came through public donations. The funbeds, geared toward relieving pressure draising was stewarded by the East Kooon the ICU to preserve resources for the tenay Foundation for Health. Marion Labrie, Paige Ukass and Donna Grainger hold the $50,000 cheque the most critically-ill patients. “We’re just thrilled to announce that the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary gave toward critical care equipment for the All of the participating parties remain ICU re-development $1 million fundraising Cranbrook hospital. Photo submitted optimistic that this positive change will campaign has met its goal, and a big commitment of that came from the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary with a gift of allow East Kootenay residents to receive health care closer to home. The $1 million donor-driven community fundraising campaign (to purchase the $50,000 combined with two other auxiliaries to make the big component of the campaign goal,” said Donna Grainger, executive director at the East Kootenay critically needed intensive care equipment) is part of the broader $20 million ICU/ Electrical Redevelopment Project at EKRH. Foundation for Health. “We’re just ecstatic about it.” The Government of B.C. is funding approximately $12 million and the Kootenay As a result of the region’s health care volunteers, the target goal for the fundEast Regional Hospital District is providing approximately $8 million. raiser was met ahead of schedule, added Grainger. With all the essential funding in place, equipment is being ordered and instal“The success of this campaign highlights the overwhelming generosity of health care donors and the remarkable collaboration of our health care auxiliaries and lations are commencing with a timeline to coincide with the ICU commissioning, the Foundation,” said Erica Phillips, Interior Health’s acute health services ad- which is scheduled for the spring of 2016.

LOCAL NEWS

Summit Youth Centre expanding services

Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com The Summit Youth Centre’s annual general meeting revealed a strong desire to expand programs and services for Columbia Valley families in the future. The annual general meeting on Monday, November 9th held at the Summit Youth Centre featured a comprehensive report about its growth presented by program co-ordinator Kelsey Prichard. “Over the past year, the youth centre has seen tremendous growth,” she explained. “We continue to offer youth of the Columbia Valley a safe, supervised environment where they can hang out with friends, connect with youth workers and have fun.” She added the drop-in centre is now open six days a week, for a total of 27 hours weekly, after teens from the area had made a request to keep the doors open more regularly. “Development in this area is a point of pride for our centre,” said Prichard. “The Canadian Department of Justice identifies after-school hours as being the time when the highest rate of crime, violence and drug use by youth occurs. Our centre strives to engage youth and provide them alternatives to these risk-taking behaviours. By opening

(the doors) immediately after school, we are able to provide activities and programs as an intervention to these behaviours.” In fact, there were a total of 2,212 visits to the dropin centre this fiscal year between July 1st, 2014 and June 30th, 2015. “By far, it’s been the best year yet,” added Prichard. She believes an important factor that keeps youth involved with the centre has been how the administrative staff and outreach workers engage them in the decision-making process. As a result, program-

So far, it’s been the best year yet. kelsey prichard SUMMIT YOUTH CENTRE PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR

ming being offered to the community has expanded. “We have continued to offer our Cooking Program with some new aspects and expansion,” said Prichard. “In addition, we currently offer a Graphic Design and Multimedia Training Program, Open Gym Time, Youth Focused Leadership, Employment Readiness Program, Skills for Life, My Agenda Program (MAP) and the Challenges Program.” While all of the program changes have been positively received by participating youth and their

families, Prichard noted the popularity of the Graphic Design and Multimedia Training Program has exceeded all of her expectations. There are many children interested in taking the course as it offers them an opportunity to learn how to use Adobe Photoshop, create 3-D models and build virtual realities in the Oculus Rift game. “We haven’t offered anything like this before,” she explained. Although some students take graphics at the high school, Prichard has found the after-school option beneficial for students with scheduling conflicts. The Graphic Design and Multimedia Training Program runs between four and six weeks, depending on each group’s level. Three students can work through the program at a time — the intake to serve everyone remains ongoing and free. In addition, the Challenges Program has become quite popular because it helps teens develop problem-solving and communication skills while helping them gain leadership skills. It runs three times weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and the intake will be casual and ongoing. Prichard keeps track of how many days in the program each participant has completed. See A4

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Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

REGIONALNEWS

Kootenay-Columbia MP becomes NDP National Parks critic Steve Hubrecht steve@invermerevalleyecho.com

“Certainly parks is something I’ve been involved in for my entire life,” said Stetski, pointing out he has spent Newly elected Kootenay-Columbia decades working for and in provincial Member of Parliament Wayne Stetski parks and national parks, beginning as has been appointed as the National a seasonal naturalist at Long Beach in Parks critic in the NDP’s shadow cabi- Pacific Rim National Park during summers as a university students and then net, a role he is relishing. progressing up to eventually becoming a B.C. provincial parks manager. He graduated with a degree in ecology and a teaching degree, and within one week was offered a full-time teaching COLUMBIA RIDGE job and a full-time job as chief WATERWORKS LTD. of interpretation of Manitoba’s provincial parks. Notice of Application to the Comptroller of Water Rights Under the Water Utility Act and “It was an easy choice to make,” The Utilities Commission Act said Stetski, adding he never looked back and after several Notice is hereby given by Columbia Ridge years in Manitoba, came back Waterworks Ltd. that an application has been made to the Comptroller of Water Rights for a to B.C. “I wanted to combine my Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity love of the outdoors with teachfor the proposed construction and operation of a ing people to love and respect waterworks distribution system to serve residents the environment.” in the area of Stetski said he’s keen to follow up and dig into a National Parks Part of Lot 1, District Lot 139 and 7558, issue of local interest to the UpKootenay District Plan NEP 9001 per Columbia Valley — the longAny person wishing further information in proposed privatization of Kooteconnection with this application should apply nay National Park’s Radium Hot directly to: Springs pools. Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd. “The assets — the actual physi4606 Columbia View Road, Fairmont Hot cal pools — should never leave Springs, BC V0B 1L2 public hands. Hot springs are Any objections to this application are to be rare,” he said. “I haven’t seen forwarded to Rick Couroux, Secretary to the Deputy the relevant reports on the matComptroller of Water Rights, Water Utility Act, PO ter, but I am assuming they did a Box 9340 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria BC V8W 9M1, or by email: rick.couroux@gov.bc.ca or by fax (250) cost-benefit analysis on whether 953-5124 to be received in this office on or before: the operation of the pools should be private. In my opinion, the December 28, 2015 Columbia Ridge Waterworks Ltd. public sector can do just as good a job as the private sector when it comes to operations, but, again, I haven’t seen the reports. I certainly plan to follow up on it and make sure the rationale for the proposal is economical and rather than philosophical.” No matter which way the issue finally ends up, Stetski said it is high time to settle it once and for all.

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“It has been going for a long time. It’s time for the government to make a decision one way or the other. Indecision is one of the worst things to have to deal with, and having that uncertainty hanging over the park staff really doesn’t help anything,” he said. Stetksi said that, as a long-time parks employee, he had been upset at moves in recent years made by the Harper government, particularly the $27 million budget cut made in 2012, which Stetski said resulted in 106 parks staff losing their jobs in B.C. and 1,689 across Canada, and led to unfavourable reports from Canada’s Environment Commissioner in 2013 and 2014. “The last four years, parks did fare badly,” he said.

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“Youth who complete our Challenges Program can move onto a leadership role within the program, which means teaching it to other youth or running the program,” she said. “It gives them greater employment opportunities over the summer. They could be a camp counsellor and Blue Lake is recognizing our program. If (teens) take the program through us, they could have a higher chance of getting employed with Blue Lake in particular, (and) other camps as well.” For more information about programming, call Prichard at 250-342-3033. Services for youth expand The growing demand for referral services to keep teens healthy, active and safe has encouraged the Sum-

Stetski added that he is heartened, however, by some of the parks promises the new Liberal government has made, including reversing the $27 million budget cut; adding $25 million a year in new funding for parks; limiting development in National Parks; growing ecotourism in nearby communities; making parks admission free during the 150th anniversary of Confederation (2017); allowing kids under age 18 free admission to parks starting in 2018; and giving new Canadian citizens 12 months of free admission to parks. “These sure are great promises. I want to make sure they followed up on these,” said Stetski. The Kootenay-Columbia riding includes four National Parks.

mit Youth Centre to expand its reach. On top of the Summit Youth Centre providing referral services for youth in terms of mental health, sexual health, food bank, addictions and witnessing abuse, Prichard is taking the next step. She, along with the Summit Youth Centre team, will be offering emotional support by escorting teens to their appointments. “This year, we have stepped up our level of support for youth by also offering to accompany them to any appointment or service that they may wish to access,” explained Prichard. “If a youth wants one of our youth workers to accompany them to the Options for Sexual Health clinic, for example, we will support them in their request.” For updates on social media, visit the Summit Youth Centre page on Facebook.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A5

LOCAL NEWS

Impact of more docks on Columbia Lake debated Greg Amos Special to The Valley Echo Canal Flats councillors took issue with warnings about the impacts of allowing docks on the village’s waterfront property at the November 9th council meeting. A proposed amendment to the village’s Bylaw 45 would allow docks and overnight moorage within the WR-1 (“water resource”) zoned areas in the village, areas that include the Painted Ridge and Eagle’s Nest developments. The notion that docks could proliferate in a way that’s unhealthy for the lake (or unsightly for residents) was carefully scrutinized. “The regional district did a huge amount of work on this; there’s lots of good information out there to make this bylaw,” said Coun. Marie Delorme, who told council she herself owns waterfront property in the village. “I’m concerned that if we don’t allow docks on lakefront lots, it will lower the assessed value and affect the tax dollars in our village. We have to be alert to what we have here and what we can create.” In a background note to council, chief administrative officer Brian Woodward noted the impact of allowing docks in the WR-1 areas “could be substantial.” “There could be up to 70 docks or a number of docks to house up to 70 boats,” he wrote. Delorme cited precedents established by the Regional District of East Kootenay around riparian (waterfront) rights for new developments, and noted that, of the 125 waterfront lots on Columbia Lake, not every one would automatically be allowed to build a dock. Although only 28 properties in Canal Flats have lakefront access, four public access laneways in Canal Flats would allow another 40 non-waterfront lots to apply for provincial permits to build docks at the end of those laneways. That could be done under a revised Bylaw 45, Woodward explained, provided homeowners go through the process of forming a society to do

“It is fair to say that the Village of Canal Flats has deso. Under current zoning, it would not be possible. Delorme informed council she has been to all meet- cided to turn a ‘blind eye’ and has knowingly decided ings for Columbia Lake communities that want to al- not to enforce the provisions within the WR-1 zone low overnight moorage on the lake, and insisted the against these unauthorized and illegal ‘dock’ strucprocess is not as simple as forming a society and get- tures and ‘overnight moorage’ activities,” wrote Mr. ting provincial permission. Riparian rights must be Vernon, who urges council to “consider whether an updated amendment is needed to reflect reality.” granted to them by the province, she said. Coun. Karl Sterzer noted biologists have told council She illustrated her point by noting Timber Springs (near Columere Park) has no riparian rights, so the that docks become habitat for fish, and offer protecregional district has not allowed homeowners there tion from ospreys. Delorme noted buoys create more to have moorage buoys. Bella Vista, which is further impact than docks, without the benefits (noting buoy inland and above Timber Springs, was not even con- chains tend to drag across the bottom of the lake.) Sterzer noted he has built timber frame homes on sidered, so their buoys were pulled out, she added. Coun. Delorme noted there are 11 waterfront lots lakefront lots all over the province, and said Canal in Painted Ridge and 15 at Eagle’s Nest, with the re- Flats would be an anomaly to not have docks. He urged council to make Bylaw 45 a mainder being non-waterfront It is fair to say that priority, as he believes homeownlots with access to a right of way leading to the shoreline. Using the Village of Canal ers will fight the village over their assessed values if the issue is not Columbia Ridge (a lakefront deFlats has decided to turn a resolved. velopment on the west side of CoAt the council meeting, Woodlumbia lake) as a precedent, any ‘blind eye’ ... MIKE VERNON ward noted the WR-2 zone around non-waterfront lots with laneway PAINTED RIDGE DEVELOPER Tilley Memorial Beach to the end titles would not necessarily be of village area is of “moderate to low ecological value.” entitled to their own dock, she said. Mayor Ute Juras also pointed out that “our lake is The original Bylaw 45 was enacted by the Village of Canal Flats in June 2008, creating the WR-1 and WR-2 very shallow, and very susceptible to traffic.” After lengthy discussion, council agreed to study zones. WR-2 covers the area adjacent to Tilley Memorial Park and allows for docks, while WR-1 covers the issue of public access waterfront rights in a Noall other lake areas within the Village of Canal Flats vember 25th Committee of the Whole meeting before boundaries, and does not allow for docks or over- bringing the Bylaw 45 amendment back to council for first reading. night moorage.  Earlier in the meeting, gallery member (and Valley In a letter dated September 9th, 2015, concerns were brought to council from 391043 Alberta Ltd., Echo publisher) Dean Midyette asked why there had the holding company owned by Painted Ridge devel- been a one and a half month delay for a discussion oper (and former Calgary Flames goaltender) Mike on Bylaw 45, which was first slated to appear as an Vernon, complaining of an uneven approach to dock agenda item for the September 14th council meeting. Juras replied that village staff did not have enough allowances, pointing out that docks exist within the WR-1 zone. Meanwhile, he is not permitted docks in time to prepare the background information to foster the discussion. his Painted Ridge development.

COUNCILBRIEFS

Radium mayor plans to attend regional forum

Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com Mayor Clara Reinhardt will be attending the upcoming Regional Community to Community Forum being hosted by the Ktunaxa Nation Council and the Regional District of East Kootenay. At the November 18th council meeting, Reinhardt expressed an interest in attending the reconciliation-themed form at Royal Alexandra Hall in Cran-

brook between 2 and 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th. She will be participating in the daylong initiative that aims to promote conversations, storytelling, networking and brainstorming within the region. It is expected there may be goals set for the future at the forum. McCauley confirms seat Councillor Tyler McCauley has confirmed his attendance at the Local Government Leadership Academy’s

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(LGLA) 2016 Leadership Forum at the Radisson Hotel in Vancouver between February 3rd and 5th. The theme of the LGLA’s 2016 annual forum will be geared toward Respectful Leadership — practices to encourage governance among elected officials and staff; legal and human resource professionals; experts on community engagement and ethics; First Nations relations; and creating worklife balance. Although McCauley was not at the

November 18th regular council meeting, he had previously confirmed his interest in attending the forum and was eager to attend workshops about Respect for Yourself, Respect for Others and Respect for the Office. Council supports Trail Host A request for ongoing participation with and support of the Forster Creek Trail Host was recently approved by the Village of Radium Hot Springs. See A13

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Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

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their business, it was confirmed that quite a few s downtown Invermere dying? Why doesn’t the Regional UNDOWN U businesses downtown had one of their best sumDistrict of Invermere (DOI) control/stop/limit mers ever in 2015. the development at the crossroads? Another extremely positive outcome in the sumThese questions are sometimes asked by locals mer of 2015 was the success of the Farmers & and residents. A few facts worth considering: all of Artisan Market downtown. Despite competition the land to the north of the Athalmer highway (ie. from the Crossroads market at the same time, No Frills, Kicking Horse, Home Hardware) is in the the downtown market was definitely busier and Shuswap reserve and the DOI has no input or conmore successful. The comments from many of the trol on this development. The land to the south of ERRY downtown market patrons was quite telling: they the Athalmer highway is zoned/controlled by the enjoyed the atmosphere downtown and nearby Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) — the shops and restaurants — they want to come downDOI gets one out of 15 seats on this board. However, it is worth noting that much of the land has been zoned town. The feedback about the new and improved Cenotaph commercial for decades and a great deal of additional commer- Park downtown was also very positive. We are very excited that construction of the new multi-use cial development can occur in this area without any further centre at the old DTSS site across from Sobeys will begin in votes or decisions by the RDEK. In 2005, two important things happened in downtown Inver- 2016. This new facility will not only be an exciting and very vismere: Home Hardware moved out of the downtown core, and ible presence at the entrance to the downtown, but it will also the first phase of the Parkside Place development near Pothole show significant investment and belief in what there is to offer Park finished construction. Both of these changes created a and experience on the west side of Lake Windermere. When huge amount of available commercial square footage down- completed, the space will not only house and facilitate the curtown. In the short term, all of the spaces previously occupied rent uses of the existing Lake Windermere Community Hall, but by Home Hardware were filled, but as we know today, not all also offer a venue for larger scale conferences/meetings/perof those businesses remained. There was also some time when forming arts, and a new and expanded home for the Invermere there was quite a bit of vacancy within the Parkside Place com- Public Library. In 2005, with the move of Home Hardware out of the downmercial units — they are now all full. Some of the other noted vacancies downtown are the former town, people speculated about the death of downtown. The Essentials /Consign-It space, the former The Book Bar space next few years that followed ended up being extremely busy and, although still lived in by the owners but no longer operat- with no commercial vacancies. There are always lots of larger factors at play, like oil prices and the global economy, major ing, the Toby Theatre The reasons that these spaces are empty or not fully utilized changes in the way retail occurs, and constant technologiare complex and unique, everything from family situations, con- cal changes (people just don’t rent videos or develop rolls of dition of the building, technological changes and changing retail film anymore), but despite all of this, downtown Invermere is patterns (online shopping and a move towards smaller specialty not dead! A private liquor store at Canadian Tire isn’t going boutique stores, or big box national chains versus large inde- to change the beauty and popularity of the flowers downtown pendent “department” stores). The former Book Bar building or the success of the downtown market, and it isn’t going to has new owners and there should be renovations happening stop the construction of the new multi-use centre. The next quite soon. Before long, we will see it full and bustling with a re- time someone complains about “all the businesses that have closed” or about “all the empty spaces downtown,” remind imagined combination of existing downtown businesses. Despite several high profile vacancies downtown and a few them that sky hasn’t fallen yet, and, believe it or not, downbuildings that look a little tired, the story in Invermere is far town Invermere and the unique collection of businesses will from doom and gloom. There have been a number of new busi- continue to survive — and thrive! Gerry Taft is mayor of the District of Invermere and a Regional nesses open or expand in 2015 and, during a recent Chamber of Commerce-sponsored initiative “Business Walk” in which lo- District of East Kootenay director for the Columbia Valley. He can cal businesses were canvassed door-to-door and asked about be reached at taft.gerry@gmail.com.

G TAFT

Amanda Nason

invermerevalleyecho.com

2009 2009 WINNER

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

THE

invermerevalleyecho.com A7

TREET

Should the plan to privatize the Radium Hot Springs pools be stopped?

Absolutely. The springs were historically used by First Nations and First Nations have never been consulted on them. If they go anywhere, it should be back to local First Nations.”

“Some park amenities already privatized are well-managed, others less so. All still publiclyrun are well-managed. The hot springs should stay within the Parks Canada system.”

Diana Cote

Kevin Dunbar

“I don’t know. That’s a tough question.” Hilda Jensen

LETTERS

B.C. climate leaders must oppose Site C

Editor’s note: The following is an open letter to the BC Climate Leadership Team, which was apopinted by Premier Christy Clark in May 2015 (visit www2. gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/climate-change/ policy-legislation-programs/climate-leadership-team or go to http://goo.gl/XNYDTr). Politicians CC’d on this letter include Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Premier Christy Clark, Green Party leader Elizabeth May and B.C.’s environment minister Mary Polak. Dear Climate Leadership Team Members: We are writing because you have been called upon to provide recommendations on climate action to the provincial government by the end of this month, when Premier Christy Clark is scheduled to travel to Paris to attend international climate change talks. We are collectively advising you that the proposed Site C hydroelectric dam project is not “clean energy” and to remind you that Treaty 8 First Nations continue to oppose Site C, and we are calling on you to oppose the Site C project with us. Your primary task is to advocate the “best actions” that British Columbia can take to keep the province on track in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But you have also been told that the recommendations you make should serve to improve relations between the provincial government and First Nations, not weaken or undermine them. This is a vital part of your mandate, and it cannot and must not be ignored. All too often, provincial and federal government actions have caused harm to First Nations. There is a grave risk that if you, as committee members, are

not careful you will legitimize climate actions that amount to an assault on constitutionally protected Aboriginal Title and Rights and Treaty Rights. We are extremely concerned that a cornerstone of the province’s emerging and allegedly “clean energy” climate plans includes construction of the Site C dam, which would flood lands along 107 kilometers of the Peace River and its tributaries. This would result in the permanent loss of vital hunting, fishing and gathering sites and other areas that are of historic and cultural importance to the region’s First Nations, who actively oppose the dam’s construction. Further underscoring our concerns is a discussion paper on climate action that was released in July by the provincial government and reviewed by members of your committee. The paper makes no mention of Site C. Because it fails to do so, there is no discussion about what uses the hydroelectric power from that dam might be put to. Our concern is that a substantial amount of that power could be used to support expanded natural gas drilling and hydraulic fracturing (fracking) operations on First Nation lands, which could then result in the construction of new Liquefied Natural Gas processing plants on our coast. If as committee members you are not already aware, you should know that First Nations in the Peace Region of the province have expressed grave concerns about the impacts that expanded natural gas drilling and fracking operations have had and will continue to have on critically important wildlife and water resources. Those concerns have recently resulted

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

in successful arguments before provincial tribunals and courts opposing water and other resource allocations to energy companies involved in fracking operations. Further, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, First Nations Summit, and BC Assembly of First Nations have respectively passed resolutions supporting Treaty 8 First Nations in opposition to Site C. In May, 2015, when Premier Clark appointed you as members to the Climate Leadership Team you were tasked with making recommendations that “further the province’s government-to- government relationships with First Nations while constructively finding climate solutions.” You will fail to meet your own mandate if you do not publicly and forcefully oppose the Site C dam and any expansion in natural gas drilling and fracking operations that would be made possible by increased availability of hydroelectric power. We formally request that you speak publicly on this issue prior to the Paris climate change talks, and underscore the importance of BC working directly on a government-to-government basis with First Nations. Substantial progress in meeting our climate change goals is something we all strive for. But true progress cannot be made in the absence of strengthened relationships between BC and First Nations. That is the path to truly meaningful, socially responsible climate change policies. Respectfully, FIRST NATIONS SUMMIT UNION OF BC INDIAN CHIEFS BC ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS

� �

Are you surprised there are over 400 business licenses issued in Invermere each year? NEXT WEEK’S QUESTION: Should the privatization of the National Parks’ hot springs be stopped?

INVERMEREVALLEYECHO.com

Yes

100%

A8 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

THE

WEEKLY Beat Have an event you’d like listed? Email it to: production@ invermerevalleyecho. com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25TH

• 11:30 a.m.: Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ monthly directors meeting at 625, 4th Street (South Annex), open to the public. • 4:30 p.m.: Wings Over the Rockies AGM at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Everyone welcome.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27TH • 12 p.m.: Edgewater Seniors soup day at the Edgewater Legion, $6 Includes Soup, bun and dessert. • 4 - 8 p.m.: Invermere Vendor Blender Christmas Shopping Extravaganza at the Invermere Community Hall. Donation in support of ICAN or an unwrapped toy welcomed at the door. • 5 - 8 p.m.: Invermere Legion Christmas Craft Fair. To reserve a table please call 250-688-0640. • 6:30 p.m.: Roast Beef Dinner at the Invermere Legion. $15/person. Reservations Recommended. Call 250-342-9517. Meat Draw and 50/50. • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. Kimberley Dynamiters at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH

• 4:30 p.m.: Global Climate March. Bring your signs to Pothole Park and march to Invermere Community Hall in support of the climate movement! Similar marches will be held around the world in advance of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.

Eddie

Mountain • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. Grand Forks Border Bruins at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5TH

• December 5th and 6th: ‘Twas the Book Sale Before Christmas, at Home Hardware. Gently used, winter themed books will be available for purchase • 5 p.m.: 2nd Annual Wild and in support of Friends of the Invermere Scenic Film Festival hosted by Library. Wildsight Invermere at the Invermere • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Invermere Thift Store Community Hall. Pizza, cash bar, and Extravaganza. rafﬂe. Tickets $20 for adults, $10 for • 12 p.m.: Turkey Shoot at the 18 and under, available at the Circle Invermere Legion. Smokies, Brats, and Cafe, Circle Health Foods or online more available at concession. at www.wildsight.ca. A series of nine ﬁlms chosen with local connections in SUNDAY DECEMBER 6TH mind. For more information, contact • 12 - 7 p.m.: Feed the town at Copper invermere@wildsight.ca. Point Clubhouse. Bring a nonMONDAY NOVEMBER 30TH perishable food item or cash donation to support the Columbia Valley Food • 6:50 p.m.: Ladies Night Out - The Bank. Santa will be in attendance from Gift that changed my life, at Lake 1 - 6 p.m. Windermere Alliance Church, tickets $15 per person. An evening for women • Turkey Spiel: For more information who love fellowship, fun, and food visit www.curlinginvermere.ca, or for the body and soul. Fashion event email invermerecurling@shaw.ca or featuring Tiffany’s Thredz and Summit call 250-342-3315. Footwear. Special guest speaker MONDAY DECEMBER 7TH Jackie Buhler, R.N.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13TH • 4 - 6 p.m.: Radium Hot Springs Fire Department Children’s Christmas party at Radium Hot Springs Fire Hall. Visit www.radiumhotsprings.com for details. • 5:30 p.m.: Christmas Dinner for Seniors at Best Western Invermere Inn. Call 250-342-5566 to register. • CPR holiday train, raising food and cash donations for local food banks. Visit www.radiumhotsprings.com for details.

• 7 p.m.: Lake Windermere District Lions Club meetings every 1st and • 6 - 8 p.m.: Lego Club every Tuesday 3rd Monday of each month at CVCC/ Lions Hall Highway 93/95, Invermere. at Radium Public Library. Contact 250-345-0171. • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.: OPT clinic at the Invermere Health Unit. 1st and 3rd • 7 p.m.: Bingo at the Canal Flats Civic HOURS Tuesday of each month. Conﬁdential Centre, 1st and 3rd Monday of each service: low-cost birth control, and month. INVERMERE LIBRARY STI testing. • Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1ST

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH

• Wednesday: 10 a.m - 8 p.m. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3RD • 7 p.m.: Cinefest ﬁlm series featuring • Thurs – Saturday: 10 a.m - 5p.m.

• 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Invermere Legion Christmas Craft Fair. To reserve a • 7 - 8:30 p.m.: Hospice Society information night: How to help table please call 250-688-0640. someone who is grieving, at the • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Invermere Vendor Canal Flats Community Centre. Blender Christmas Shopping For more information email info@ Extravaganza at the Invermere hospicesocietycv.com and call 250Community Hall. Donation in support 688-1143. of ICAN or an unwrapped toy welcomed at the door.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4TH

• 6 p.m.: Meat draw and 50/50 at • 4 - 6:30 p.m.: Stuffed Pork Loin Dinner Invermere Legion. at the Invermere Legion. $15/person. • 6 - 9:30 p.m.: Ladies Night Out & Kick Reservations Recommended. Call Ass Vision Board Party at Copper 250-342-9517. Meat Draw and 50/50. Point Resort. Single ticket $49, Table of • 7 - 10 p.m.: Fresh Fridays Open Mic 6 $249. For more information contact at Pynelogs. Showcasing young talent Bailey at bailey@baileyyeats.com or from the valley. All ages, licensed bar. call 250-270-2100. First Friday of every month. • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. Nelson • 7 p.m.: Valley Voices A Ceremony Leafs at Eddie Mountain Memorial of Carols at Christ Church Trinity. Arena. Tickets $10, students $5. Available at SUNDAY NOVEMBER 29TH Tiffany’s Threds in Invermere, Meet On Higher Ground in Radium and The • 3 p.m.: Grey Cup Party at the Purple Cow Gift Shop in Fairmont Hot Invermere Legion. Dinner TBA. $15/ Springs. person. Reservations Required. Call • 7:30 p.m.: CV Rockies vs. Fernie 250-342-9517.

Ghostriders at Memorial Arena.

the ﬁlm Jimmy’s Hall by ﬁlmmaker Ken Loach. Tickets $12 at the door.

RADIUM LIBRARY

• Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10TH • Wed - Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m. • 12 p.m.: Senior’s Lunch at the • Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1p.m. Invermere Legion. $5 at the door. INDERMERE VALLEY MUSEUM RSVP by calling 250-342-9281 ext 1227 W • Tuesday: 12 - 4 p.m. or emailing events@invermere.net • 7 p.m.: Crib and Texas Hold Em INVERMERE THRIFT STORE tournaments at the Invermere Legion. • Thurs - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $35 poker buy in.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11TH • 2nd Annual Butterﬂy Tree of Lights.A lovely way to commemorate our loved ones who have passed on. Join us for this special evening of remembrance and connection. We hope that this event becomes a beloved tradition for your family. This event is held annually on the second Friday of December. Ofﬁce is open Daily 12-4pm in Frater Landing, (250)-688-1143.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12TH

RADIUM THRIFT STORE

• Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Fri - Saturday: 12 - 4 p.m.

SUMMIT YOUTH CENTRE

• Tuesday: 5 - 9 p.m. • Wednesday: 4 - 9 p.m. • Thursday: 5 - 9 p.m. • Fri - Saturday: 6 - 11 p.m. FREE tutoring available and volunteer tutors needed. Contact the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy wvcoordinator@cbal.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A9

SPORTS

Local judokas demonstrate skill in Creston

he Invermere Judo body movements and also Judo OTTINGS Club is active since learn to respect others. September with 60 memThe advanced members bers registered that are practise Monday and split into two groups. Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 Juniors, six to eight p.,m. This group are mostyears old, practise on ly juniors, from eight to 18, Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 some seniors, ranking from p.m. They learn basic white to black belts. We ERMANN movements leading to are fortunate to have six judo applications: gripyudansha (black belts) as ping, groundwork and instructors, from shodan judo terms. This group has about 23 to sandan (1st to 3rd degree black members on the mat, who have fun, belts) with NCCP training and qualificaplay games that make them aware of tion as dojo instructors, and provincial as well as national A referee certifications. Some members choose recreational judo and strive for better physical condition as judo is a very beneficial workout, and others test their abilities in competition. November

H MAUTHNER

14th was a tournament in Creston at which eight athletes from Invermere took part. Jeanette Riches and Bill Rainbow were coaching; Bob Gadsby and Hermann Mauthner were busy as referees. Lenni Stich was our first competitor and set the stage against a higher-ranking opponent. With three ippons, he won his first bout and continued to the gold medal. Owen Christy The Invermere Judo Club had an impressive showing at a tourshowed his best nament in Creston earlier this month. Photo to the left: Marnie Rainbow (in white) applies a tai otoshi (side body drop) as and placed third Cassia Riches resists. Photo above: Lenni Stich won gold medâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; a bronze medal. al and Owen Christy won bronze. Photos submitted Marnie Rainbow and Cassia Riches best, which earned him a silver medal. had the longest bout as they were so Lawrence Bell competed against a black evenly matched â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both received a belt and returned with a silver medal. bronze medal. Lucas Nickel gave his See A19

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Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

KIJHL

Rockies player Malcolm Fenelon looks down the ice preparing to let the puck fly at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena in Invermere on Friday, November 20th when Columbia Valley played Golden. Photo by Breanne Massey

Rockies shut out Golden Rockets Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com The Columbia Valley Rockies won 6-0 against the Golden Rockets at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Friday, November 20th. “We played pretty well tonight,” said Wade Dubielewicz, Rockies head coach, after the game. “Our top liners are outgoing, but going into their (the Rockets’) rink (on Saturday) is going to be a different story, so I think we have to go in with the same game plan and the same tenacity and the same work ethic and hopefully, we’ll get the same result (in our back-to-back games with the Rockets this weekend).” Rockies player Donoven Quintin scored the Junior B team’s first goal with assists from Colton Sandboe and Nigel Swab. Shortly afterwards, Sandboe scored two additional goals before the end of the first and his third at the start of the second period. Quintin also scored a goal during the second. And, finally, Rockies athlete Ty Duncan scored the team’s winning goal in the third.

Home Games VS. KIMBERLEY DYNAMITERS Friday, November 27

VS. Friday, NELSON LEAFS November 28 th

7:30 pm

DON’T FORGET 50/50 TICKETS

CELEBRATING 37 YEARS IN THE KIJHL!

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A11

KIJHL

RecReation education enviRonment aRts social seRvices

community makes you. you make youR community. “Thanks for your incredible efforts and contributions to make environmental education a priority in the Columbia Basin”. Duncan Whittick, Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network, July 2014

The foundation of my community starts with you and me . . . Your local community foundation helps guide your financial support to where it will have the greatest impact. Connect with us to discover the best way to contribute to make your community a better place.

Rockies player Michael Cardinal (#21) gets down to take the advantage in a face-off against the Golden Rockets in Golden on November 21st. Rockies won their second game against Golden this past weekend, 6-1. Photo by Amanda Nason

Rockies win two in a row Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com Despite reservations expressed by Rockies head coach Wade Dubielewicz after their win against Golden on home ice the night before, the Columbia Valley Rockies won 6-1 against the Golden Rockets at the Golden Arena on Saturday, November 21st. Rockies players Micheal Cardinal, Nigel Swab and Nolan Menard scored three goals during the first period, ramping up the Junior B team’s spirit for their impending victory. During the second, Golden Rockets athlete Mathew Thiessen gave his team some hope by scoring their first

— and, as it turned out, only — goal of the game. Rockies players Davin Burton, Nick Hoobanoff and Harrison Davies scored another three goals in the third, which ultimately helped the team win the game. The Rockies’ next games are both in Invermere at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. They play Kimberley on Friday, November 27th at 7:30 p.m. and Nelson on Saturday, November 28th, also at 7:30 p.m. For more information about the team, visit their website at www. rockieshockey.ca.

Christmas is the time for giving. We will be running a feature in our December 2nd and December 4th editions encouraging our residents to support those in need. By purchasing a small advertisement in these editions, you can highlight some of the services you provide and information on how to donate.

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PLACES Friday Nov 27th Wednesday Dec 2nd Friday Dec 4th

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ALLEY CHO

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at 250-341-6299 or e-mail advertising@invermerevalleyecho.com

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Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

COLUMNIST

Greatness seeds: giving and receiving

n light of recent world events, I find myself compassionately focused upon them, yet I know that, everyday, conflict, loss and devastation occur somewhere on this planet. My awareness of this depends, for the most part, upon what I hear, see and read. I also know that, each day all around the world, there is evidence that great love, beauty, peace, giving and receiving also continue to grow. My awareness of this depends, for the most part, upon what I hear, see and read. Often I find that, when my

heart is hurting for the to each other and to Grow Your REATNESS world, I seek the solitude strangers, imagine the and comfort of nature. impact that would have As I gaze out at the stillon our world. ness of the newly frozen Giving seems to be water with our snowsomething that comes capped mountains in the easily for us so my quesbackdrop, I know that tion for you is: how good even without whisperare you at receiving? LIZABETH ing a sound, I am asking: Nature teaches us the “What more can I do?” art and science of giving Recently, the answer and receiving every day. that came to me was to give and re- Consider the hours, days, seasons ceive more. If each of us, today, gave and years gone by and it’s not hard even just a bit more time, kindness, to understand the gift and benefits love, appreciation, respect, of this cycle of reciprocity. When we gratitude, grace, forgiveness, give and receive more, we can do so money, donations, compas- with amazing grace and gratitude for sion, friendship, connection, all of it. We are the stewards of this leadership and contribution world and we have the opportunity to role model this Friday, November 27 - 5pm to 8pm Saturday, November 28 - 9am to 3pm every day. Friday, November 27 - 5 pm to 8 pm At the Invermere Legion, Sow the uncondiSaturday, November 28 - 9am - to 3 pm For information 250-688-0640 tional seeds of giving MaxWell Realty Invermere at the Invermere Legion. and receiving — and For information 250-688-0640 encourage others to do the same. This week, may we all step into giving more to ourselves, connect@geoffhill.ca our families, Invermere-RealEstate.com See A13

E SHOPLAND

Geoff Hill

250-341-7600

#UsedHelps

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A13

COLUMNIST

Real Estate is easy — just ask me! Editor’s note: The Invermere Valley Echo is pleased to welcome its newest columnist, valley Realtor Geoff Hill, to the roster.

Not only will I answer questions from friends and clients, I’ll also answer readers’ questions about real estate here in this column. You don’t even have to visit a real estate office; you can just email me your questions and I’ll address them here! Your question could be anything real estate-related. Maybe you’re wondering why one agent can show you any house you want to see or how a buyer’s agent gets paid. Perhaps a family member is having a real estate dilemma and you can’t convince his or her stubborn self to get help. Well, you’re in luck because for as long as Nicole, the editor, lets me be a part of the newspaper, I’m going to help you get answers in a fun way that helps us all learn a bit more about real estate. Please send all questions to connect@geoffhill.ca with subject line “Real Estate is Easy.” Your question may get picked for a response in this column and wouldn’t that be fun? Geoff Hill is a licensed Realtor with MaxWell Realty Invermere, holding a trading services licence since May 2008. Originating from West Vancouver, he came to the valley for the snow and stayed for the people and lifestyle. Geoff enjoys volunteering with the local fire department and roller derby team as well as playing roller derby and many other sports himself.

RADIUM from A5 “It’s a great way to ensure people have a great time (snowmobiling),” remarked Reinhardt. The Village of Radium Hot Springs chief administrative officer (CAO) Mark Read told council that, in previous years, district staff have contributed to the Trail Host’s administrative and financial needs (applying for grants through the Columbia Basin Trust). Reinhardt asked whether Read would be willing to continue to offer his support to the Forster Creek Trail Host position and was delighted that he agreed. Council will be sending a letter confirming their involvement with the Forster Creek Trail Host shortly. Variance gets OK Village of Radium Hot Springs resident Georgina Moxam’s request for a development variance permit to complete a deck expansion has been approved. At the November 18th council meeting, chief administrative officer Mark Read reviewed an administrative memo from Arne Dohlen, director of planning and development services, about the project. “The proponent has requested a variance to the rear setback requirements in order to extend the open deck by 1.0 metres,” read Dohlen’s note. “This property backs onto the Springs golf course and is located adjacent to the back tee box on the 11th hole.” If the permit was approved, Dohlen continued, the edge of the deck would be 1.25 metres from the property line as the prop-

eal estate is so easy! That’s why I got a job as a realtor. When my friends ask me what I’m doing today, I often answer, “I guess I’ll go see if there’s a paycheque on my desk, then go home.” The answer generally gets a couple laughs and, believe me, it’s a lot less time-consuming that going through the myriad of tasks involved in my day-today. My dad always said, “If you can’t laugh at yourself, then you can’t laugh at others.” All jokes aside, sometimes when my friends ask me what I’m doing, it’s more than a polite colloquialism, and they have legitimate questions about real estate. I get to put on my Super Realtor suit and give them the answers they need. General market condition questions are easy and normally receive as broad of a response as they deserve; however, other questions are tough and I will erty is part of a strata. He added that Moxdo some ream has taken the information to the Strata search to Council and received its approval. find the corRead added a note has also been sent to rect answer. Moxam’s neighbours to explain the scope of her project. Council unanimously supported the de2015 COLUMBIA VALLEY cision to move forward with Development Variance Permit 35 and offered its thanks for the information.

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Renovation approved in Radium Rockies Pizzeria spokesperson Mladen Lukacic made an application to the Village of Radium Hot Springs to renovate the exterior and enclose the upper deck on the south side of the building. The Village of Radium Hot Springs unanimously agreed to grant Mr. Lukacic Development Permit 138 to move forward with the proposed renovation and addition plans to bring the deck space into the upstairs dining area of the restaurant. Lukacic explained the character and colour scheme of the business would remain the same during the process. Read told council that the proposed restaurant addition would require a total of 12 parking spaces. However, council agreed to reduce the number to 11, which it deemed will be a suitable way of meeting the parking requirements. “Most people walk, so I think being short a parking stall is OK,” said Reinhardt, noting it would be important to see the parking spaces paved. Lukacic has plans to complete the upgrades to the parking spaces and pave the sites himself in no more than two years.

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GREATNESS from A12 N E W S PA P E R

our community and the world, and be more open and aware of receiving the good that people and the world wish to extend to us. Elizabeth Shopland is a personal growth and development coach, a certified horticulturist, and the co-owner of Shopland Grow & Bloom. She can be reached at eshopland@telus. net and 250-342-1124.

C O L U M B I A

The Invermere

ALLEY CHO

Angela Miller, Advertising Sales No. 8, 1008 - 8th Ave. Box 868 • Invermere B.C. • V0A 1K0 Phone: 250-341-5216 • Fax: 1-855-377-0312 columbiavalleymagazines@hotmail.com www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

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A14 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

BC NEWS

Merritt-Coquitlam power line completed TOM FLETCHER Black Press

A year behind schedule and $18 million over budget, the latest high-voltage line of the BC Hydro grid has been completed from Merritt to Coquitlam. The new line parallels the existing main line supplying the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island from hydro dams on the Peace and Columbia Rivers. It was originally to be completed in 2014, but the main contractor fell behind and BC Hydro used its own crews to complete one of the most difficult portions,

a 19 km stretch north of Hope. The final cost for the 247 km line is expected to be $743 million, which Energy Minister Bill Bennett said is about two per cent more than the initial $725 million budget. “There is an ongoing arbitration between BC Hydro and [contractor] Flatiron Graham as to who’s going to bear the cost of the delay, because the project was delayed by a year,” Bennett said in an interview Friday. It’s the first 500-kilovolt line added to the BC Hydro grid in 40 years, to keep up with demand from a growing south-

western B.C. population and increase reliability in the event of disasters. “You always have the potential for a big avalanche or a mudslide, even an earthquake, to take out one or two of your big transmission lines, bringing electricity in from the two rivers, the Columbia and the Peace,” Bennett said. NDP energy critic Adrian Dix said the project started out with a $600 million estimate, making it $125 million over budget. He said it’s the latest in a series of cost overruns, including the Northwest Transmission Line north of Terrace, the Dawson Creek-Chetwynd line and the Is-

kut extension in the northwest. Bennett said BC Hydro is under-budget on its overall capital construction plan, including $100 million under budget on reconstruction of five generating units at the W.A.C. Bennett Dam on the Peace River, and there is no additional effect on rates. BC Hydro is committed to a capital budget of $2.4 billion a year for the next 10 years, including construction of the Site C dam on the Peace River and reconstruction of the Ruskin Dam in the Fraser Valley and the John Hart Dam on Vancouver Island.

EMEMBER WHEN? R A look back through The Valley Echo's archives over the last 50 years

2007 — A group of Christmas Elves cheerfully seold Chrismas gifts at the Elf Craft Sale at the Invermere Community Hall ECHO FILE PHOTO

years ago (1965): Printing press problems left the Valley Echo unable to print the television schedule, much to the dismay of many local residents. A front page apology from the paper laid the blame on invisible printer gremlins.

years ago (1970): Radium Hot Springs residents sent a petition, containing the signature of 90 per cent of community’s taxpayers, to the provincial Ministry of Municipal Affairs, asking the ministry to incorporate the community. Radium had a population of 225 at the time. Minister Dan Campbell visited the community shortly after to explain the logistics of the process, but it would end up being another 20 years before Radium was officially incorporated.

years ago (1975): An Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) was spotted in the Upper Columbia Valley. Local resident Vern Sattman was enjoying a soak in

the Fairmont Hot Springs pools when he saw what he said was an eggshaped object with pulsating red, green and blue light soaring through the sky. Having been in the airforce, Sattman knew it was not any aircraft known to humans. He went into the Fairmont Lodge and brought out five others, some of them with binoculars, to observe and confirm the strange phenomenon.

years ago (1985): The Radium Hot Springs sawmill was sold by Revelstoke Sawmills ltd. to Slocan Forest Products Ltd. General manager Frank Fortin said there would be no change in personnel or mill operations.

years ago (1990): In the first-ever municipal election in the just-incorporated Village of Radium Hot Springs, Greg Deck was elected mayor by a vote of 97 to 68 over his challenger Metro Tomlyn. Ron Verboom, Kent Kebe, Phyllis Jackson and Brent

Fredrickson were voted in as councillors.

years ago (1995): The David Thompson Secondary School boys’ volleyball team won the provincial championship. Graham Gillies was named Most Valuable Player.

years ago (2000): Alliance Party incumbent Jim Abbott was handily re-elected as Kootenay-Columbia MP, capturing 67 per cent of the vote. Other candidates included Liberal Delvin Chatterson (14.9 per cent), NDP Andrea Dunlop (8.7 per cent) and Progressive Conservative Jim Pirie (5.7 per cent)

years ago (2005): Invermere council approved rezoning to allow for Quiniscoe Homes’s Canyon View development. The development planned for higher density and smaller lots, with the aim of making housing more affordable. Opponents of the development likened its high density to “slums”.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

CROSSWORD

RAIN AIN

SUDOKU

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. Figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers named, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

HOROSCOPES

invermerevalleyecho.com A15

GAME

CLUES ACROSS 1. And so forth (abbr.) 4. Used to be United __ 7. Upper left keyboard key 10. Invitable ruin 12. Consumed 13. N.H. Maine river 14. Sen. Thurmond 16. More (Spanish) 17. Oh, God! 18. Designed chairs 20. Insect living in organized colonies 21. Anglo-Saxon theologian, c.700 22. Ecclesiastics 25. Magic incantation 30. Swan Lake and Don Quixote 31. Affirmative 32. Conspiracy 33. Citizen of Stockholm 38. Light brown 41. Roman judge 43. Sonny & Cher classic 45. Chopped mixture for stuffing 48. Am. Nobel physicist Isodor 49. Maya __ of Vietnam Veterans Memorial 50. Expressed pleasure 55. In bed 56. Finnish 57. Canacol Energy stock symbol 59. Leather strap for hawks 60. UA fraternity est. 3-9-1856 61. Low, sideless cart 62. They __ 63. Single Lens Reflex 64. Point that is midway between N and NE

27. Right linebacker 28. Flower petals 29. Early culture of Gr. Britain 34. Worldwide internet 35. 7th Greek letter 36. When born (abbr.) 37. Before 39. Existing forever 40. About name 41. Myanmar monetary unit 42. Island north of Guam 44. Soft 45. __ Castell, makers of pens 46. Excessively fat 47. Eliminates 48. A Hindu prince or king in India 51. Carrier’s invention 52. Possessed 53. Deserve through action 54. Doyen 58. A way to change color

W eekend WEATHER Friday November 27 Sunny Temp: -2oC o

Feels like -2 C

Low: -9oC

Saturday November 28 Answers to last week

CLUES DOWN 1. Murrow, Sullivan & Koch 2. Carrying bag 3. Countess of Grantham 4. Key fruit 5. One kept in readiness 6. Bring back to normal 7. Avid 8. Lots of 9. Formal close (music) 11. Dad’s partner 13. Point that is one point E of SE 15. Myself 19. Minor disagreement 23. Promotional materials 24. Bahama capital 25. Rudiments of a subject 26. Bleat

Sunny Temp: 1oC o

Feels like 1 C

Low: -10oC

Sunday November 29 Sunny Temp: -1oC o

Feels like -1 C

Low: -10oC

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, things go well this week, but expect a few bumps along the way as well. Learn how to clear these hurdles and you will stay on track.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Other people appreciate your ability to put a positive spin on things, Leo. Use that talent to help two friends overcome their differences in the next week.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, even though you are quite persuasive, you cannot always make miracles happen. If someone isn’t moved by your call to action, don’t take it personally.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, keep your eye on the prize, resisting the temptation to get swept up in distractions. The longer you can maintain your focus this week, the more likely you are to be successful.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Keep an open mind when someone comes to you with a suggestion, Virgo. Even though you are quick to dismiss it outright, give it a second thought.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, there’s not much more you can pile onto your plate without it tipping over. This week lighten your load by asking family to help. They are more than willing.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Luck puts you in the path of someone you have been anxious to meet, Gemini. Use this opportunity this week to ask all the questions you have been wanting to ask.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, some big challenges are coming your way, but it’s not anything you can’t handle. However, you may need to bring in some reinforcements. Enlist some friends to help out.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Make an effort to restore some order to your finances, Aquarius. It may be time to curtail your spending, but a close examination of your finances won’t cause much panic.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Persistence is your best ally this week, Cancer. When others give up early, you have the tenacity to continue. Don’t be surprised if others notice your hard work.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, after many weeks of putting in your best effort at work and at home, it very well may be time to take a break. Here’s a chance to book a vacation before the holiday rush.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, some mysterious news has piqued your curiosity, and now you may not be sure which direction to go for a few days.

A16 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 The Valley Echo

The Valley Echo's 2015/2016

NHL Hockey Pool Standings

This Week’s winner is:

Kootenay Rangers Head to Echo/Pioneer office to redeem your lunch prize!

Grand Prize

2 rounds with cart at The Ridge and 2 rounds with cart at The Point 250-341-3392

All prizes must be claimed before the following week's results are released.

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 10 11 11 11 14 15 16 17 18 19 19 21 22 23 23 23 23 27 27 27 27 27 27 33 33 33 33 33 38 39 39 39 39 43 43 43 43 43 43 49 50 51 51 53 53 53 56 56 56 59 60 60 60 63 64 65 65 65 65 65 70 70 72 72 74 74 76 77 77 77 77

Team WTC + Rockies 19 + Go Habs Go + LB 22 + Kmart Special +2 T Webb + Harley + DR 27 + Ski +2 Hootenani A’s +2 Flathot 84 Love the B’s Davy 19 +2 E-town 98 +3 DB 24 +3 Roadhammer +3 Buster’s Rez Raiders II + Faze Zeimzeys + Kootenay Rangers + MC 21 +2 Ron Hunt Picks +2 HSB Dad + The Ultra Beauty + Matt Santucci +3 MF 11 + Little Red + Gama’s Guys +2 Taters +3 Akisqnuk’s Rez Raiders +2 ATT and KZEE +3 Slev 77 +2 Tristan Dubois + NM 23 +2 Sportsmom3 +3 Epie 76 +2 Brennan +3 AllMega 01 +2 Still Guessing + Shogun +3 Dexter “O” slayer Harley 10 RSJ 16 + Sabu 64 + Beagle +2 D Turner + Davis Tenta +2 13 Family Pantry +2 Willbillies +3 HD 4 +2 Payci +2 Christopher 3 +2 R’s Rockets +2 CLB 77 +2 ABA Chow + Layne Hunter + Jye +2 Cowboyz and Indian + Hockey Insider +2 M + L +5 Don43 + Hockey Season Widow + Long-Rock +2 Young Guns +3 Jet’s Baby +2 Hair 3 Merrymen +2 Little fast guy +2 Old-Rock 50/50 Rock KM 10 + PBR +2 CR 13 +2 Malcolm + Choda Boy + Edge Golf + CS 14 + R.O.P. +2 Beer League All Star +2 Casss+3

Total 367 360 359 357 349 349 349 349 349 347 346 346 346 345 343 342 341 339 338 338 337 335 334 334 334 334 333 333 333 333 333 333 332 332 332 332 332 331 330 330 330 330 328 328 328 328 328 328 326 324 323 323 322 322 322 321 321 321 320 319 319 319 318 317 316 316 316 316 316 315 315 314 314 313 313 312 311 311 311 311

LW 55 48 56 55 57 59 57 52 56 57 65 49 57 49 51 57 56 60 61 68 51 56 57 53 58 48 63 57 51 55 53 59 52 61 47 47 58 46 56 64 51 59 59 47 50 63 56 59 53 44 47 52 56 49 49 55 49 48 62 49 54 55 51 50 55 49 45 56 55 48 48 52 55 53 53 53 49 55 55 47

P/G

35 28 30 27 59 32 37 21 34 29 25 23 36 52 46 51 67 35 21 42 41 35 30 39 65 43 50 56 50 64 63 49 21 45 29 49 51 25 15 43 39 44 52 26 41 45 52 40 47 45 41 45 40 44 47 42 40 30 47 45 28 41 51 67 62 29 40 33 54 47 47 40 56 28 28 55 56 51 54 61

0.80 0.77 0.76 0.76 0.80 0.76 0.77 0.75 0.76 0.75 0.74 0.73 0.76 0.78 0.77 0.78 0.80 0.73 0.72 0.75 0.75 0.73 0.73 0.73 0.77 0.74 0.74 0.76 0.74 0.76 0.76 0.74 0.71 0.74 0.71 0.75 0.74 0.71 0.69 0.72 0.74 0.73 0.73 0.70 0.71 0.73 0.75 0.72 0.72 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.71 0.71 0.72 0.71 0.71 0.69 0.71 0.70 0.68 0.70 0.73 0.75 0.73 0.67 0.70 0.68 0.72 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.72 0.67 0.67 0.71 0.71 0.71 0.71 0.73