Invermere Valley Echo, March 02, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

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Cranbrook-based ice carver Rusty Cox gave a demonstration at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort ski area on Saturday, February 27th as part of Fairmont’s Fire and Ice Festival. PHOTO BY DAVID WEBSTER

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Valley fire dispatch services moving to Kelowna BREANNE MASSEY breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

public will see. “It’s a positive change. The Kelowna Fire Department is more advanced in technology so it’s definitely a positive change because that’s what they do fullA new fire dispatch services deal has been inked between the Regional District time,” said Columbia Valley Rural Fire and Rescue fire chief, Jim Miller. “Cranbrook was doing it before but, to keep doing it, they would have eventually of East Kootenay (RDEK) and the City of Kelowna. The Kelowna Fire Department will be providing support for the 16 fire depart- needed to do more upgrades. There was nothing wrong with the way it was taken care of, but it will relieve them of that duty and they can focus on their ments that are located in the RDEK starting on Monday, May 30th. “The City of Cranbrook advised the RDEK that they were choosing not to renew own fire issues as opposed to running a 911.” Ultimately, Miller believes the change will be positive for their contract for fire dispatch for operational reasons,” It’s a good move. It’s a both areas and has the potential to help improve fire prosaid Sanford Brown, manager, building and protective sercedures in the valley. vices at the RDEK. “We needed to find a new contractor positive one for sure. “It’s a good move,” he said, “it’s a positive one, for sure. with the skills, experience and technology to provide the There are dedicated personnel There are dedicated personnel for (fire dispatch in Kelowsame high level of service to our region and our fire de(in Kelowna) who are really na) who are really well-trained and dedicated, so for us, partments at the most affordable price. So our next step it’s a betterment.” was to send out a Request for Expressions of Interest after well-trained. JIM MILLER, FIRE CHIEF He noted the technology and their experience could bewhich a Request for Proposals was sent to those agencies COLUMBIA VALLEY RURAL FIRE AND RESCUE come an asset to the Columbia Valley. who expressed interest in providing the service.” “We are able to provide the new service within our existThere was a total of three proposals received when the request was issued, but none of them were submitted by locals, which encour- ing capacity,” said Travis Whiting, deputy fire chief of the City of Kelowna in a recent press release. “The selection of Kelowna Fire to dispatch for the RDEK is aged the RDEK to look at alternative options. “After evaluation by fire chiefs from around the region and RDEK staff, it was a reflection of the professional and efficient work of our dispatchers in support determined that the Kelowna Fire Department proposal would meet our needs of local first responders.” To learn more about the Kelowna Fire Department, visit www.Kelowna.ca/Fire. at a reasonable cost,” said Mr. Brown. However, there shouldn’t be any changes in the quality of service that the For more information about the RDEK, visit www.RDEK.bc.ca.

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Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

Y E ALL

PINK SHIRT POSSE...

The staff at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic in Invermere got into the spirit of Pink Shirt Day last Wednesday, February 24th. Wearing pink on national Anti-Bullying Day (as it’s also called) sympbolizes solidarity with the victims of bullying and draws attention to the cause. PHOTO SUBMITTED

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LOCAL NEWS

Columbia Valley projects receive CBT funding BREANNE MASSEY breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

The Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley was approved for $10,900 to offer enhanced bereavement support training for the volunteers and staff in the East Kootenay region. In addition, the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley has plans to use the social There has been $1 million in Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Social Grants approved for 28 projects that aim towards boosting social well-being in the commu- grant to develop a bereavement support group in the Columbia Valley for individunities it serves, and four of those projects are located within the Columbia Valley. als and families who are affected by death due to traumatic events or suicide. “These support groups will enable people who are bereaved for traumatic rea“Through these grants, we’re able to help social service organizations meet the needs of Basin communities and residents,” said Liz Gillis, CBT manager, in a sons to explore their grief and go through the mourning process in a safe envirecent press release. “These projects will positively impact health and well-being ronment,” said Maria Kliavkoff, the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley executive director. “The groups are an important way of normalizing the experience, throughout the Basin.” working through the pain and minimizing incidents of depression in our community. We will also expand the training of our own staff and volunteers, and those of other hospices, so that they are able to provide support to these specialized groups.” MaxWell Realty Invermere The Windermere Valley Youth Centre will receive $7,000 to deliver an after-school food security program at the Summit Youth Centre to educate youth on meal planning, budgeting and preparation. The West Kootenay Brain Injury Association, which recently began Saturday, March 19th serving clients from the East Kootenay region, received $21,800 to provide facilitated support and skill development programming to 10 a.m. connect@geoffhill.ca help rehabilitate brain injury survivors in Invermere and Golden. Invermere-RealEstate.com The Lake Windermere Alliance Church was also approved for $20,000 to expand the outdoor playing area at Sonshine Children’s Lakeview Centre, which will allow it to meet licensing requirement for a safe Meadows and fenced playing area for children. Recreation Centre, Since the CBT Social Grants program was launched in 2012, it has 855 Lakeview Meadows Rd distributed over $4 million. The decisions to award money are made by the Social Grants Program Selection Committee, which is a vol• Review 2015 Financial Statement • 2015 unteer group of Basin residents with experience in the social sector Minutes of Meeting • Election of Officers and and community development. Directors of the Board • Future Facility Plans For more information about the program, visit www.cbt. www.icanbc.com • info@icanbc.com • 250-341-7888 org/2016socialgrants. Refreshments served To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, visit Everyone welcome! www.cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

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LOCAL NEWS

Medical marijuana dispensary eyed in Radium

RDEK BRIEFS

RDEK plans to fund valley-wide visitor services

Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

Steve Hubrecht steve@invermerevalleyecho.com

With the Government of Canada’s vow to support legalization on the horizon, some entrepreneurs are hoping that business opportunities may gain traction in the Columbia Valley. The Village of Radium Hot Springs accepted information at the regular February 18th council meeting from Megan and Sarah Karchuk’s delegation regarding the possibility of obtaining a business licence to open up a medical marijuana dispensary. “We would like to discuss opening a medical marijuana dispensary,” the pair’s letter to council read. “The transparent sale of our products for medical consumption will continue to increase as the population ages… and as the medical community continues to explore and approve an alternative holistic choice to pharmaceuticals. As the prospect of legalization quickly approaches, we want to have an established and respected business that regulates clientele and promotes a safe, high quality product.” The pair hopes to use the template of Tamarack Dispensaries in Kimberley to build a business in the Village of Radium Hot Springs. “Along with certification from the CAMCD (Canadian Association of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries), a referral from a medical practitioner and proof of laboratory testing, we will have 24-hour surveillance and a wheelchair accessible building so that we can cater to all patients who are having difficulty with the current MMPR (Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations) system,” she said, while noting a renovation located at the building of 4884 St. Mary’s Street could offer privacy and easy accessibility. The duo believes a dispensary could increase revenue for the businesses in Radium when patients from the surrounding areas visit the municipality to pick up medicinal marijuana. “We will give our members the security and comfort to educate themselves about available medication in a clean facility as an alternative to the black market, therefore diminishing the strength of organized crime, protecting our youth and offering a safer, more controlled product.” Council accepted the information from the Karchuks and plans to collect information about the community’s legal responsibilities. “It wasn’t a request for a business licence, so much as it was an informational meeting,” explained Coun. Tyler MacCauley by phone on February 26th. “We’re waiting for a legal opinion on the whole thing, so it really depends what comes back in the form of a legal opinion. We don’t want to put the town in jeopardy. We want to do it right.”

Several items of interest to the Columbia Valley came up at the most recent Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board of directors meeting, including potential funding for valley-wide visitor services and for the valley’s Permanent Resident and Attraction and Retention Plan. Following discussion on the matter at the Thursday, February 11th Columbia Valley Services Committee, the RDEK board of directors approved, at their Friday, February 12th meeting, a resolution for a $100,000 grant through the new Columbia Valley economic development services area to provide valley-wide visitor services. The grant (and the valley-wide visitor services model) will not officially go ahead until the Radium Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce endorses the move. (The Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has already endorsed it, and the Radium Chamber will discuss it at its meeting this week). The RDEK board of directors will then adopt the grant as part of its 2016 budget (which it is set to do during the next RDEK directors meeting on Friday, March 4th). If these both happen, valley-wide visitors serI am pleased to vices will become a reality this year. see this initiative “This project has been in the works for awhile, it is an example of how we can work together for move forward. WENDY BOOTH the benefit of the valley as whole. This funding RDEK AREA F DIRECTOR from the Columbia Valley economic development service area enables all properties in the Columbia Valley to contribute to the visitor services,” said RDEK Area F director Wendy Booth, adding that “in the past, only those in the municipalities of Radium and Invermere were contributing. However, the entire valley received the benefits. This model is more reflective of the valley as a whole. In addition, with all four centres managed under one umbrella, this will enhance the visitor experience and reduce duplication. I am pleased to see this initiative move forward.” The RDEK directors at their February 12th meetin also approved $50,000 in the 2017 budget for projects that may arise from the Permanent Resident Retention and Attraction Plan. “At the moment, the (Permanent Resident Retention and Attraction report) is not complete so we don’t know if any or what projects might come forward, however this gives us some flexibility to potentially act on them,” said Booth.

REGIONALNEWS

Columbia Lake Provincial Park upgrades At the February 11th Columbia Valley Services Committee meeting, B.C. Parks Kootenay Okanagan regional director John Trewhitt gave a presentation on planned upgrades in Columbia Lake provincial park, a project that has been in the works for a number of years. “The current proposal includes upgrades to See A5

Women Grows offers second cannabis event Breanne Massey breanne@invermerevalleyecho.com

There’s a growing trend where cannabis is concerned in the Kootenay region. Women Grow, a national network of cannabis industry leaders (growers, manufacturers, dispensary owners or patients) that promotes education and information about working in the cannabis industry, will be hosting its second Signature Networking Event at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 3rd at the St. Eugene Golf Resort and Casino. “We want our chapter meetings to be accessible to all Kootenay individuals and that means being mobile and hosting our events in different communities around the Kootenay region,” said Kaleigh Herald, founding chairwoman of the Women Grow Kootenay Region Chapter. “Cranbrook and surrounding communities are home to a large amount of cannabis and hemp activity and many industry professionals are eager for the local networking opportunity. The St. Eu-

gene Mission Resort is very excited to host the event.” It will be open to both men and women to connect with industry experts such as Tamara Duggan, David Grenier, Teresa Taylor and Graeme Staley. “Our line-up of now four speakers consist of individuals from across British Columbia and even Saskatchewan,” said Ms. Herald. “Three of four have extensive experience in the hemp industry all with different business models. Being that hemp cultivation and manufacturing is gaining popularity in regions close to Cranbrook, such as Southern Alberta and Creston, we saw this as a great opportunity to excite the audience about the potential of hemp in Canada.” “Our fourth speaker is a local dispensary operator who will share her story in how the compassionate powers of the medicine empowered her to obtain the career she has today,” she said. “All these individuals have exciting experiences in the hemp and cannabis industry and their information will be of great value to our audience.” Early bird tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.EventBrite.ca or for $30 at the door.

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Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

COUNCILBRIEFS

Westridge mailbox commotion starts up again Steve Hubrecht steve@invermerevalleyecho.com

residents near the old location had complained, and now the residents near the new location were complaining. He added that such disputes are common. “This happens frequently, almost every time a bank The new location of the Westridge mailboxes has once again bubbled up as an issue, after Invermere of (mail) boxes goes in,” he had said at the time. Several months later, in November 2014, many resicouncil received a letter of complaint on the matter dents of Westridge signed a petition saying they liked at its most recent council meeting. The emailed letter, received at the Tuesday, Febru- the new Westridge mailbox location and didn’t want ary 23rd council meeting, was from Westridge resi- it moved. Westridge resident Rick Fiddis circulated a dents Bob and Virginia Walker, and pointed to what petition in support of the current spot and collected the signatures of 35 homeownthe couple terms “the safety isers in the area who favour the sues” associated with the spot The location where new location. He said he went to which the bank of mailboxes (the mailboxes) are to 36 homes to get the 35 signahad been moved a few years ago. tures and said that everybody “The problem is that they (the now is not the best. GREG ANDERSON he talked to was supportive of mail boxes) were moved to the DISTRICT OF INVERMERE COUNCILLOR keeping the mailboxes where worst location possible in the they are, with one exception, subdivision when safety is taken “It’s not a neighbourhood feud. It’s not personal. into consideration. The current location is in the middle of an intersection, on a steep inside curve on the We just like our post office boxes where they are,” south side of the road,” reads the letter. “Due to the Fiddis had said at the time. “Our concern is that we slope of the road, exposure, and grade, ice accumu- talked with the district planner and he said the only lates on the road surface in front of, above, and be- other spot he can imagine the boxes being moved to low the boxes. Residents driving home cross the road is across the street from the Seniors Hall (in a spot into the oncoming lane and pick up their mail then where there already are some mailboxes).” The Walkers’ most recent letter referenced the pecross the oncoming lane to either continue up the hill or U-turn across the intersection to continue north.” tition, saying since it was clear that Westridge resiThe couple had initially sent a letter of complaint dents did not want their mail boxes located outside to council on the matter in July 2014. At the time, In- the subdivision, perhaps a compromise of a new lovermere planner Rory Hromadnik told The Pioneer cation in the subdivision could be possible. “Some ideal sites would be on the corner of that the boxes had been moved because Westridge Westridge Drive and Westridge Way as this is flat terrain easily reached from all parts of Westridge. The other possibility would be at the south end of Westridge Drive where a second set of boxes is currently located,” suggested the Walkers in their letter. During the February 23rd council meeting, Greg Anderson mentioned Andrew Franklin, Director of Digital Development

Appointment

is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Baziuk as B.C. Digital Editor. Laura graduated from Carleton University’s journalism program in 2007. She worked in various newsrooms, including the Peace Arch News, the Province, the Canadian Press, and most recently, CKNW Radio. She spent four and a half years there, as a reporter and anchor, and was sent to Tofino to cover the whalewatching boat capsizing in 2015. Laura grew up in south Surrey and lives in Vancouver. She enjoys reading crime novels, baking and eating cookies! Please join us in congratulating Laura on her appointment as B.C. Digital Editor.

Laura Baziuk Black Press Digital

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he had lived in Westridge for 12 years, and could sympathize with the Walkers’ complaints. “The location where (the mailboxes) are now is not the best,” said Anderson, asking if district staff could look at the issue. Invermere mayor Gerry Taft pointed out that location of mailboxes is not a district decision — the district makes recommendations on potential mailbox locations to Canada Post, which owns the mailboxes and has final say on where they go. He then suggested contacting Canada Post and having the organization look into potential new locations. Council made a motion to do just that and tell the Walkers that council would pursue the matter with Canada Post. Funding assistance During the February 23rd meeting council approved a flurry of funding assistance for several local organizations, including $500 for the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN); $500 for the Killer Rollbots; $1,000 for the Columbia Valley Community Foundation (for the community vital signs study); $2,500 for the Invermere Curling Club; $1,500 for the Kinsmen Club; $1,000 for the Columbia Valley Youth Soccer Association; $500 for the Invermere Special Olympics chapter; $2,000 for Invermere Citizens on Patrol; and $500 for the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club (for equipment for kids). In addition, council approved annual fees for services of $22,000 for the Columbia Valley Arts Council; $10,000 for the Windermere District Historical Society; $5,000 for the Columbia Valley Hospice Society; and $5,000 for the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club. Several councillors pointed out that all organizations either had their funding levels drop slightly or stay frozen at the same level as last year, and added that this was because the district is now having to start paying some of the costs associated with the planned new multi-use centre.

COUNCILBRIEFS

Amended dock bylaw going ahead

Steve Hubrecht and Dean Midyette The Valley Echo Canal Flats is moving ahead with its new dock bylaw, which received second reading at the most recent village council meeting. The amended dock bylaw was given the readings during the Monday, February 22nd council meeting and will be the subject of a public hearing in the near future before it can receive third reading and be adopted. Also during the meeting, council members appointed Cheryl Ottey as interim chief financial officer and deputy village clerk. Ms. Ottey will fill the role while Sylvie Hoobanoff (who has been the village chief financial officer for years) acts as interim Canal Flats chief administrative officer, temporarily filling in the shoes of outgoing chief administrative officer Brian Woodward. Miscellaneous Council heard two presentations at the meeting, one from Kimberly Hrynyk regard-

ing a summer hockey camp for Canal Flats kids. Ms. Hrynyk asked for a grant in aid of $2,500 to offset some of the cost of the camp. She said she is also placing a request to the Columbia Basin Trust for $8,000 and thanked Nick Hoobanoff for the incredible job he is doing as a volunteer coach. Columbia Lake Stewardship Society member Tracy Flynn made a presentation asking that the summer student hired by the Village of Canal Flats be assigned to do work for the society one day per week. She also offered some wage subsidies to offset the cost of hiring the student. During the meeting, councillor Paul Marcil expressed concern over the amount of dog noise. Mrs. Hoobanoff said dog noise cannot be addressed by the dog control officer unless a formal complaint is made. Council decided that village’s application to appear on the CBC television program Still Standing, which profiles communities that have bounced back from tough economic times, should put on hold indefinitely See A5

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

BC NEWS

invermerevalleyecho.com A5

Tourism taking off in B.C.

Tom Fletcher Black Press New direct flights from Paris and Tokyo and a decline in the Canadian dollar helped push international tourism near five million in 2015, a 7.9 per cent increase over the previous year. A relaunched “Super, Natural B.C.” marketing campaign has also proven effective, gaining attention from global tourism publications, Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Minister Shirley Bond said Tuesday, releasing 2015 visitor totals. Bond hit some of the highlights of the tourism results, showing improved results far from Vancouver International Airport.

BUSINESS

RDEK from A3 the road, decommissioning the current road to the lake and turing it into a 500-metre walking trail to the lake. “This area has significant cultural artifacts for the First Nation community,” said Booth, speaking after the meeting, adding she has a few qualms with the proposal. “These upgrades will limit the opportunity for the community to access the lake. The community of Fairmont should have proper access to the lake at the north end, which is supported in many of our policy documents. I do believe that there could be a compromised option with a turnaround 30 metres from the lake and parking at the top of the road. In that scenario, people of all ages and mobility would be able to access the lake.” Trewhitt did not give a definitive timetable for the upgrades for Columbia Lake Provincial Park.

AMENDED from A4 until some substantive measures are undertaken and results achieved by the village on economic development. Canal Flats will defer its application to the Columbia Basin Trust’s new recreation infrastructure grant until the July intake in order to allow time for the village to develop more definitive plans for the money which will be used for upgrading the community hall. Council determined that no representative from Canal Flats would be able to attend this year’s Council of Forest Industries (COFI) convention in April.

Invermere’s creative economy booms Steve Hubrecht steve@invermerevalleyecho.com

Invermere has a booming creative economy, and those in valley’s arts community are keen to see it grow even more. Provincial minster of community, sport and cultural development Peter Fassbender announced B.C.’s new three-year creative economy strategy earlier this month, saying it’s time to recognize the contribution of arts and culture to the province’s economy and to the quality of life of its residents. As part of the strategy announcement, he also committed $1.5 million in funding during the next three years to help establish shared creative spaces, and a further $300,000 during the next two years for a training program designed to spark new business sponsorship of arts and culture. Here in the Upper Columbia Valley, residents are already reaping the benefits of this growing sector, according to Columbia Valley Arts Council executive director Jami Scheffer. “It’s difficult to measure the benefits both in the economy and health of the community when you speak about the creative economy in the Columbia Valley,” she told The Echo. “But when you look around, you can see the outcomes of a creative community. There are many thriving art galleries, both privately owned and non-profit. Many businesses that are art-related fill necessary niches, with art workshops, art supplies and local art sales. There are many, many artists in the Columbia Valley that paint, write, perform, sculpt, dance and more. This valley inspires creative people to be creative.” Although it can be tricky to define exactly what constitutes a creative economy, Scheffer said that the basis is a healthy cultural community, evidenced here in the valley by the many events in the valley (popular with both locals and visitors) that support culture, including live music, book readings, theatre productions, artist demon-

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The gold rush town of Barkerville near Walden said. Quesnel welcomed 60,000 visitors beAccording to the 2015 visitor totween May and September last year, a 20 tals, the largest volume of visitors per cent increase from the year before. is from the U.S., which saw a 9.6 per Sun Peaks resort near Kamloops saw a cent increase to 5.2 million visits 20 per cent increase in room nights last last year. July, demonstrating success in efforts to France had the largest percentage expand mountain resorts beyond the ski increase at 33 per cent to 29,000 season. visitors, after Air France added a diHotel occupancy was up 8.8 per cent in rect flight to Vancouver. the province, and restaurants saw a 7.3 Visits from Japan were up 15.5 per Marsha Walden per cent increase, said Marsha Walden, cent, and South Korea and Mexico Destination B.C. CEO CEO of Destination British Columbia. visits rose 9.5 per cent. Victoria registered 87 per cent hotel occupancy Visits from Asia Pacific countries rose 4.5 per cent in June, and “that hasn’t happened in 20 years,” and European visits rose 3.8 per cent.

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strations and dance recitals. It’s important to bolster the local creative economy as it promotes cultural tourism, said Scheffer, adding the Upper Columbia is quickly becoming a destination for its cultural experiences. This in turn helps foster and develop even more artists in an ever-increasing positive cycle. “Also when the economy challenges people to cut back on spending, often cultural experiences are just that, an experience. Experiences don’t require spending money. Simply walking through a gallery (or a series of galleries, such as during valley’s Art Walk), listening to music on the street (buskers), viewing painted murals, watching an artist demonstration — these create an experience that makes people feel good,” she said. “The Columbia Valley inspires artists to be creative. The locals support those artists. The creative economy grows, more business open, more people move to the valley that recognize its cultural character, tourists travel to the valley to experience that character, businesses thrive, artists grow — a full circle of culture.” Scheffer added that the valley’s strong creative economy is a boon to kids, pointing out that valley youngsters hold art gallery shows, can sing in a choir, perform in a safe venue, learn from art teachers and instructors, and get a job in a gallery, among other artistic opportunities. The new multi-use centre, on which construction may begin as early as this year, will only further enhance the valley’s creative economy, she said, pointing out that it will “use creative designs and architecture, creating a cultural destination in our beautiful valley that celebrates our creative community. People will want to experience the centre. It will draw all people together in one place for many reasons — a cultural hub.” According to a Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development press release, B.C. has more artists per capita than any other province, and the number of artists in British Columbia grew by 74 per cent between 1989 and 2013.

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Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

HUMOUR

Something on your mind? The Valley Echo welcomes all letters to the editor and submissions from community and sports groups, as well as special community columns. Please keep your signed, legible submissions under 500 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity, taste, legal reasons and brevity. Each submission must contain a daytime phone number and place of residence. Send email submissions to editor@ invermerevalleyecho.com.

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Leaving end-of-life care to the individual

Breanne Massey

Steve Hubrecht

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DEAN MIDYETTE publisher@invermerevalleyecho.com Last week, the Special Joint Committee on Assisted-Physician Dying released its report and recommendations on what should be included in Canada’s new euthanasia laws. The Supreme Court of Canada struck down the existing law just over a year ago and parliamentarians have only a few months to table and enact new legislation. I’ll leave it to the politicians to decide the conditions under which someone can choose to enlist a physician to help end their life. The focus of this editorial pertains specifically to those who may wish to impose their value systems on this most personal of choices.

As I look at my family tree, one of the branches has escalating incidences of dementia while another has a history of cancer (oops, my life insurance premiums just went up). Like many, I have seen relatives suffer in the throes of these diseases. While in his late 60s, my grandfather was diagnosed with a rare form of bone marrow cancer. Hospitalized for most of the last year of his life, the health professionals kept him alive for far longer than was necessary. He went from a healthy 180-pound man to someone I didn’t recognize, a shell of his former self, who begged for death for months before his passing. There was no dignity during his final days, or months, for that matter; only an elongated and avoidable period of suffering.

I have discussed my feelings about doctorassisted suicide with my family and will be amending my will once the new legislation is passed. If and when the time comes to face a fate similar to my relatives, my plans will be in place. If treatment with a favourable prognosis is available, I will pursue it. If, however, the only option left is an extension of my life with deteriorating quality and increasing discomfort, then I’ve made my choice while of sound body and mind. This essay discusses my own personal choice; it was not written to impose my values on anyone else. I respectfully ask that as physician-assisted suicide is legalized, and earnest discussions begin around endof-life care, that all of us remain respectful of the values of each individual.

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2009 2009 WINNER

Educational opportunities for Area directors

egional District Elecsician Assistants or PAs, who Regional UNDOWN U toral Area directors are have completed all the unoccasionally invited to atdergraduate requirements of tend seminars, forums and an MD to work under the sueducational sessions in the pervision of MDs. Currently, interest of improving our the B.C. government is conunderstanding of issues and sidering PA certification. our contributions to local At the February meeting of government. the Kootenay East Regional ERRY The Union of BC MunicipalHospital District Board, we ities (UBCM) provided such heard that Interior Health is a forum in the first week of working on expanding the role February. During the session, we learned of paramedics to include the provision of about managing community protection patient home care and we will hear more with the projected increase in wildfires about those efforts in the near future. throughout B.C., and successes and difI am looking forward to the Columbia ficulties in managing product recycling. Mountains Institute of Applied Ecology There were updates on the BC Water (CMIAE) Forum on Environmental and Sustainability Act and its implementation Social Assessment in Cranbrook. CMIAE along with a presentation on innovations is an association of Kootenay-based enin the provision of health care in rural vironmental scientists who organize proand remote areas. grams for professional development as Several provinces have sanctioned Phy- well as an annual forum open to the pub-

G WILKIE

lic. I have appreciated attending the Institute’s previous Forums on conserving wetlands, the dilemma of urban wildlife, and managing resource roads (there are over five hundred thousand kilometres of these roads in B.C.). Beginning in the 1960s, the concept of environmental assessment in governance procedures was motivated by concern about sustaining our biophysical environment. At the same time, we also wanted to maintain economic growth and our standard of living. As a result, we seldom refused projects because of their environmental impact. Today, with the rapid global cumulative impact of land use and the energy we use to maintain our standard of living, we are back to the question of sustaining life on this earth. Environmental assessments are now much more comprehensive and include information on cultural, archeological, See A14

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

THE

invermerevalleyecho.com A7

TREET

Would you like to see a medical marijuana dispensary open in the Columbia Valley?

“Yes.”

“Definitely. I’m all for it.” Jean Matheson

OPINION

Slow Food Canada comes to the Columbia Valley

what Slow Food is all about. This April 6th to 10th, Invermere MLA EPORT E This national event will include will be hosting the Slow Food Canfood tastings, agriculture tours, ada National Summit, an amazing and presentations on Indigenous festival of local food that will raise foods. Saturday will feature Slow the profile of the region, bring toFood Youth with a session called gether growers, producers, and “The Future of Farming.” Many consumers, as well as a represenyoung people are choosing farming tative of Slow Food International and food production as a career, from Italy where this movement ORM and our communities are benefitbegan. ting from these new businesses. Slow Food is a vast network of One of the first Community Supmillions of people from more than 160 countries. It started in 1989 as an antidote ported Agriculture (CSA) programs in the area to fast food and the increasing loss of local began at Edible Acres in Windermere. Operated by Lin and Oliver Egan, the Egans have food traditions. Slow Food Columbia Valley was formed in gone on to be great advocates for young farm2006 as part of a region-wide movement to im- ers and sustainable agriculture. This conference is taking place with the supprove our food systems and increase access port of a range of partners including Columbia to quality food. Revelstoke, Golden and Kimberley also have Basin Trust, the District of Invermere, the Wingroups and organizations that promote local dermere District Farmers’ Institute, Heritage food, and many will travel from across the rid- Canada and Kicking Horse Coffee. If you are interested in attending, you can ing to attend the Slow Food event in Invermere. Food security has become a priority issue find out more information at www.slowfood. for people in this area. People know the im- ca. I am looking forward to welcoming attendportance of growing food locally, supporting ees to this important conference. Norm Macdonald is the NDP MLA for Columlocal producers, and choosing more sustainable methods of food production. We are also bia River Revelstoke. He can be reached by aware of the need to retain traditional knowl- phone at 1-866-870-4188 and by email at norm. edge about food production in the area. That’s macdonald.mla@leg.bc.ca.

N MACDONALD

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

“Why not?” Tim Carter

Marcel Hogue

OPINION Wolverines — Jumbo Wild’s other indicator ROWENA ELOISE West Kootenay Coalition for Jumbo Wild, Argenta Wild Jumbo’s iconic resident grizzly bears indicate a happy, healthy, mountain valley habitat. Inhabiting the cold, rugged places of the North Pole nations — but barely — “wolverines could compare to the snow leopard for their mystery to humans,” according to Douglas Chadwick, an American wildlife biologist, author, photographer and frequent National Geographic contributor. Being virtually extirpated from Eastern Canada and the U.S.A. inspired recent studies into Gulo gulo’s (Latin) habits, habitats, and populations. Studies indicate the Jumbo area’s resident wolverines enjoy a happy, healthy, high terrain habitat. These two species (grizzlies and wolverines) indicate a fully vital eco-system. The largest of the weasel family, gulos are handsome, agile, courageous, exuberant and strong. Their faces are bear-like. Their coats consist of thick, downy underlayers with long guard hair overlays that shed water and condensation, yet remain frost free — which is the reason their pelts are prized. Their colours are basic brown with a golden ring several inches wide that wraps around their bodies. They are similar in size to medium-sized dogs. Depending on the life-sustaining ability of the environment, a wolverine’s home range will be 300 square kilometres (115 square miles) to 700 square kilometres (270 square miles), though one male recorded had a 1,500 square kilometre home range. His one to two mates’ home ranges will be inside his and will not overlap each other’s. He regularly patrols his range, keeping out intruders, which assures the food supply. See A14

��

Do you think the B.C. Chamber’s idea of a single cross-B.C. business licence is a good idea?

NEXT WEEK’S QUESTION:

Do you support a medical marijuana dispensary opening up in the Columbia Valley?

INVERMEREVALLEYECHO.com

100%

A8 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

THE

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2ND • 10 a.m - 2 p.m.: Pharmasave Invermere Home Health Care Centre is having their Grand Opening. Lower level of the Chisel Peak Medical Centre. • 5 - 7 p.m.: Summit Youth Centre (SYC) YCC Challenges. • 6 p.m.: SYC games and trivia night. • 6 - 8:30 p.m.: Celebrating the success of our Aboriginal youth at David Thompson Secondary School. Join us for a traditional Métis meal of Stew & Bannock, followed by a cultural evening of Métis music and dance. Learn to Métis jig, play the spoons, and bring an instrument and your moccasins. Featuring ﬁddler Daniel Gervais. Everyone is welcome. RSVP or more Information: Deb Fisher at 250-688-5096 or Tracy Simpson at 250-342-9213 ext: 3903.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3RD • 4 - 6 p.m.: SYC Graphics Course. • 4 - 8 p.m.: SYC open gym. Come play sports with us. Everyone welcome. • 7 p.m.: Brisco Riding Club AGM at Brisco Community Hall. • 7 - 8:30 p.m.: David Thompson Secondary School theatre. The documentary series “The Truth About Cancer” will be shown. Admission by donation to cover the rental cost with surpluse going to local cancer patients.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4TH • 9 - 10 a.m.: Coffee Fest, Bean There Packed That with Kicking Horse Coffee. This event includes a tour of Kicking Horse Coffee. See roasting and packaging. Learn about sustainable coffee production fair trade and organic. Explore coffee varieties, geographies, roasting, decaffeination, and cupping. A wonderful seminar. For information and to register visit www. invermerecoffeefest.com

For more information and to register Press Championship. Competitors visit www.invermerecoffeefest.com will brew to the (not so) bitter end in • 1 - 2 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Bean There this fast paced, light hearted event. Packed That 2.0: Kicking Horse Professionals and home brewers Coffee. This event includes a tour of are all welcome to compete. The Kicking Horse Coffee. See roasting winner will receive free entry to the and packaging; learn about coffee national competition held in Calgary production and organic growing. in May. He or she will also receive For information and to register visit free accommodation in Calgary. For more information and to register visit www.invermerecoffeefest.com www.invermerecoffeefest.com • 1 - 2:30 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Tea and Chocolate Pairing at Eagle Ranch Golf • 7 p.m.: SYC Pool Tournament. Resort. Chocolate does not just pair • 7 p.m.: Wildsight presents Our well with coffee! Join Jonathan from Wild Purcells, a multimedia event Naked Leaf for a tea and chocolate celebrating the grassroots effort pairing. Explore how the different that created the Purcell Wilderness ﬂavours compliment and contrast. Conservancy. David Thompson For information and to register visit Secondary School. Admission by www.invermerecoffeefest.com donation. • 2 p.m.: Cuba 2016: World Day of Prayer at Edgewater All Saint’s Church.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6TH

• 5 - 6:30 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Tea 101 at Invermere Bakery. In this well rounded workshop, participants will explore the world of tea including how tea is harvest, different characteristics of a variety of teas and brew methods to guarantee the perfect cup every time. For information and to register visit www.invermerecoffeefest.com

• 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Kick Ass Wetlands Walk. Join Kicking Horse Coffee’s Head Roaster, Tom, on a walk overlooking the Columbia Valley Wetlands. He will explain the importance of migratory birds and the impact they have on coffee growing. For more information and to register visit www.invermerecoffeefest.com

• 5 - 7 p.m.: SSYC YCC Challenges • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Patrick Yesh Water Colour Painting Party at the program. Circle Cafe. Four hours of painting • 6:30 p.m.: Strand’s Old House (includes all supplies) and lunch is Restaurant hosts John Jenkins’ just $85. Group rates available. Call Smalltown Revival. No cover. 403-519-8268 or email patyesh@ • 7 p.m.: Laura Landsberg and her gmail.com to register. band will be performing songs from • 1 - 2 p.m.: Stolen Church Roasting her recently released album A Simple Workshop at Gerry’s Gelati. Twist at Safta’s. Experience the cracking sounds, • 7 p.m.: Cuba 2016 World Day of the changing colours, and the Prayer at L.D.S. Church, 5014 Fairway smells of coffee roasting. Learn Fairmont Hot Springs. about the techniques that inﬂuence • 7 - 10 p.m.: Fresh Fridays Open Mic the coffee you drink, by having at Pynelogs. Showcasing young talent the hands on control to help to from the valley. All ages. Licensed roast a batch of coffee. For more bar. First Friday of every month. information and to register visit • 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Film www.invermerecoffeefest.com

• 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.: SYC Youth-Focused Leadership, Drop in and have your voice heard. Everyone welcome.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9TH • 5 - 7 p.m.: SYC YCC Challenges program. • 6 p.m.: SYC games and trivia night. • 6 - 8 p.m.: Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce AGM at Lions Hall at the Cross Roads. All members are encouraged to attend. Free refreshments.

HOURS INVERMERE LIBRARY

• Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m • Wednesday: 10 a.m - 8 p.m. • Thurs – Saturday: 10 a.m - 5p.m. • Story Times: Thurs. 10:30 a.m. Sat. 11 a.m.

RADIUM LIBRARY

• Tuesday: 6 - 8 p.m. • Wed - Thursday: 1 - 4 p.m. • Saturday: 10 a.m. - 1p.m.

WINDERMERE VALLEY MUSEUM

Night. We will be screening two • 6 p.m.: Brisco Riding Club Annual • Tuesday: 12 - 4 p.m. outstanding ﬁlms that each touch on a Chili Dinner and Competition at different aspect of the coffee industry. Brisco Community Hall. $10 single, INVERMERE THRIFT STORE $25 Family, includes Chili, Salad, bun • Thurs - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. SATURDAY MARCH 5TH and Dessert. Everyone welcome.

• 9 - 10 a.m.: Coffee Fest, Cupping with Kicking Horse Coffee. Meet in the Kicking Horse Coffee tasting lab and experience a cupping with the pros. For more information and to register visit www.invermerecoffeefest.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 7TH

RADIUM THRIFT STORE

• Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Join SYC for Employment Readiness • Fri - Saturday: 12 - 4 p.m. Training or Skills for life! Program. Must pre register.

• 5 - 7 p.m.: SYC YCC Challenges • 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Coffee program. and Tea Expo at Copper Point Resort. TUESDAY MARCH 8TH Entry is Free. Coffee, tea, what goes in it, and what it goes in. Come see it • 4 -6 p.m.: Join SYC for Cooking night. all at The Expo, plus lots of sampling. Join us for Free Food and nutritional

• 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Coffee Fest, Monogram Brewing Academy - Barista Basics at Pynelogs Cultural Centre. Oneday academy, students learn fundamentals required to produce a perfect expresso-based beverage. • 1 - 4 p.m.: Coffee Fest Kootenay Aero education.

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, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A9

Emergency Responders If you have ever had to call upon local Emergency Responders for help, you know how important is the role these people play for the Columbia Valley community. Residents and visitors rely on their trained expertise and their dedication to helping those in need. From RCMP and BC Ambulance to Search and Rescue and Emerengcy Services Support volunteers, these brave men and women work hard to make peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives safer and guarantee them help in emergency situations.

CHRIS SHEPPARD

CHELSEA REINBURG

MARKO SHEHOVAC

RCMP

Constable 5 years

Constable 2.5 years

Staff Sergeant 40+ years Retiring March 4th

BRENT AYERS

GRANT SIMPSON

FRANCOIS MAZEROLE

RCMP

Corporal 19+ years

Constable 5 years

PEGGY BELL

DANNY BUTLER

SCOTT MYERS

RCMP

Constable 3.5 years

Constable 8 years

Constable 5 years

RON TRIMM

ADOLF MOHR

RCMP

CHRISTOPHER JOY

Constable

RCMP Constable

1988

We support our Emergency Responders!

2015

INDERMERE ALLEY Golf Course

A10 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

JORDAN GOLDSMITH

GRAHAM KINLEY

DOUG LAIDLAW

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 4 years

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 3 years

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 2 year

CHANTAL GOODERHAM

GRAHAM KERSLAKE

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 1.5 years

PETER HECHER

SIOUX-ZANE SUTHERLAND

BC Ambulance Unit Chief For 34 years

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 7 years

SARAH FERGUSON

LEISHA LAKE

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 11 years

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 8 years

BC Ambulance

MISSING PHOTOS FOR:

PETER TORMA

EMMA CELLI

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 5 years

BC Ambulance Paramedic For 4 years

We support our Emergency Responders!

MONTY ANDERSON - 22 years BILL LAKE - 20 years TANIA HALIK - 18 years CRAIG CHAPMAN -17 YEARS JASON STIENKE - 15 years SANDRA NELSON - 11 years DREW SINCLAIR - 10 years DONALD MARCHAND - 5 years J EREMIE GOLDSMITH - 4 years BRAM ROSSMAN - 4 years MARK HILLARY -6 months BRAYENNA MURRAY - 1 month

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A11

J.C. MOREL

DAVE HUBBARD

GRAHAM KINLEY

President and SAR Manager Member since 2009

Training Office and SAR Manager Member since 2009

Director at Large

MARTIN CALDWELL

SCOTT MCCLAIN

AINA CERNENOKS

SAR Manager Member since 2012

Equipment Director Member since 2006

Rope Team Leader Member since 1999

TANYA HALIK

CHRISSY HUNTER

SCOTT CHAFFEY

Dog Handler Member since 1997

Rope Team Member since 2006

Director at Large` Member since 2009

ANDREW BRENNAN Member since 2013

Search & Rescue

Member since 2009

JAMIE HURSCHLER Member since 2011

ANGELLE COLLI

JONATHON MARTEL

MARK HILLARY

Member since 2013

Member since 2014

Member since 2009

We support our Emergency Responders!

A12 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

MICHAEL CASWELL

MICHAEL POWER

SIMON BELAND

Member since 2014

Member since 1994

Member since 2014

SUMMIT

MISSING PHOTOS FOR: CHLOE PATENAUDE DEVON SHEPPARD JAY LIGHTFOOT JONATHAN MARTEL JORDON FARQUHARSON LISA WHITWELL MARTIN LABUDA

Avalanche Dog in training since 2014

MATHIEW TURGEON MIKE TUCKER R.R NELSON ROBERT SCOTT SCOTT MCCAIN STEVE TALSMA STEPHANIE KONIG

Columbia Valley Emergency Support Services Volunteers (ESS) CATHLEEN CHRISTENSEN

NANCY PHAIR

SHARON PASOWISTY

Voluteer since 2012

Voluteer since 2003

LINDA TARDIF

STEVEN MANTYKA

AUDREY MANTYKA

Voluteer since 2012

LAURIE LESMEISTER

EDIE ELIAS

JANET WILDER

Voluteer since 1997

Voluteer since 2012

We support our Emergency Responders!

The Invermere

ALLEY CHO

N E W S PA P E R

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 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 A13

GAME

CLUES ACROSS 1. Sold at a higher price 8. Instill fear 13. Can be domesticated 14. Oohed and ___ 15. Make too simple 19. Plutonium 20. Necessary for breathing 21. Make happy 22. Mythological bird 23. A baglike structure in a plant or animal 24. Put on __ 25. Type of dough 26. Blushed 30. Celestial object 31. Point __ National Seashore 32. Purplish red 33. Towards the mouth or oral region 34 Portuguese musical genre 35. Steals 38. Acts insincerely 39. City in Belarus 40. Anticipates 43. Paris airport 44. Deal with 45. No (Scottish) 47. Opens lock 48. Central parts 49. Sheep disease 50. Indicates position 51. Doing many things at once 55. Khoikhoin peoples 57. Informal alliance between countries 58. Long poems 59. The state of being poorly illuminated

22. Branches of a bone 25. Having a cheerless aspect or disposition 27. Edema (archaic) 28. Bo __, “10” 29. Unfledged or nestling hawk 30. Surrenders 32. Type of dessert 34. Planted with trees 35. Washington town 36. Listen in 37. Inwardly 38. Chinese province 40. Garrison 41. Converts thermal energy to mechanical work 42. Holy people 44. Lowest point between two peaks 46. Boundaries 48. Utter obscenities 51. ___ and cheese 52. Member of the cuckoo family 53. Type of microscope 54. ___ and Barbie 56. Michigan

Answers to last week

CLUES DOWN 1. Portico 2. Delicacy 3. Punish with an arbitrary penalty 4. Household god (Roman) 5. Public television station 6. __ Lilly, drug company 7. Degraded 8. Free from danger 9. Low bank or reef of coral 10. Exclamation of surprise 11. Lies down in rest 12. Give an education to 16. Provides 17. Fat from a pig 18. Belonging to a thing

W eekend WEATHER Friday

March 6

Mainly sunny Temp: 9oC o

Feels like 8 C

Low: 2oC

Saturday March 7 Mainly sunny Temp: 9oC o

Feels like 8 C

Low: 2oC

Sunday March 8 Cloudy with sunny breaks Temp: 10oC o

Feels like 9 C

Low: 4oC

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 A desire to experience thrills and sensory enjoyment is building within you, Aries. You may find yourself drawn to anything that seems risky or out of character.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Relationship dynamics have changed for the better, Leo. Make the most of this positive turn of events and make sure your partner does the same.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, daydream a little this week, but make sure it doesn’t consume all of your energy. Keep your desires in check and weigh the pros and cons of each idea before going forward.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you are accustomed to doing everything by the book, but you may be tempted to try something new in the near future. Just be sure not to throw all caution to the wind.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Your energy levels reach peaks and valleys this week, Virgo. Do your best to make the most of those moments when your energy levels are at their highest.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, finding the right balance is a worthy goal this week. Make a concerted effort to give ample time to all the people and things that matter to you.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Your schedule this week may be so hectic that others can’t decipher your plans, Gemini. Try to keep those closest to you abreast of your activities in the week ahead.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Even your wildest fantasies may not seem so outlandish to you this week, Libra. If you can think it up, you can probably make it happen with a little effort.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, time may not be on your side, but somehow you will find a way to make due. Whenever possible, farm out some of your work or responsibilities to others.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Circumstances at work that are beyond your control dominate your thoughts this week, Cancer. Don’t stress out too much and keep a positive attitude.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may find yourself doing things that would normally be out of your comfort zone. This can be a positive change in the right direction.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Your creative efforts will not go to waste, Pisces. Someone will recognize your talents and ask you to collaborate on an important project.

A14 invermerevalleyecho.com

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

WOLVERINES from A7 Mature offspring find their own home ranges. These non-hibernating omnivores clean up their timberline territories as their diets include scavenged carrion, freshly killed ungulates, small rodents, frogs, fish, berries, roots and bones. Their metabolisms run extremely fast to facilitate their constant loping pace, which promotes constant hunger. They can smell frozen carrion under 10 inches of snow and dig it out easily. “There’s tough and then there are wolverines,” said Chadwick. Their curiosity is fierce and unrestrained. They are physiologically adapted to a life of wild intensity. Their four large, webbed, crampon-clawed feet act as ice and snowshoes. They swim readily and well. They travel fast, far, steep and high, keeping an unswerving, steady progress. They roam the peaks at will — scaling them, summiting them, scavenging snowslides and intimidating their largest inhabitants. Humans and packs of wolves are their only enemies. Nothing eats wolverine. Two white fuzzy kits are born early May in a natal den. The mother usually digs into up to eight inches of snow, frequently under a fallen white bark pine. She makes a birth chamber, toilet, play room and pantry. All are connected by tunnels lined with wood chips chewed from the tree. As the kits grow, she moves them to the maternity den. One human footprint near either den may cause her to move the kits, which can be fatal.

When old enough, the kits will go with her to gather food. They stay with their mother 1.5 years. After she regains her strength, she gets pregnant again. Wolverines mature at two to three years. They can live to age 10. They reproduce slowly. Their populations are decreasing. Photos and studies show a mother laying on her back cupping two kits, one in each arm as they nurse, and fathers bring food for growing kits. Fathers may care for orphaned kits if they are old enough to keep up with Wolverines are elusive animals that are starting to become the subject of more studhim. Unlike other mamies as their population is decreasing. mals (except humans), faPhoto courtesy of Seepanee Ecological Consulting thers and mature sons will travel together; males and will otters and bears. females will be chummy in other than mating season; “When I look at eco-systems through the eyes of a and mothers and daughters will visit each other to wolverine, one of my favorite critters because they hang out, not a constant close relationship, but one represent quintessential wilderness, I know we need to that endures season after season, year after year. The ensure large and intact wild spaces,” said Dr. Jody Hilty, resident dominant male and his mates and their off- Yellowstone to Yukon president and chief scientist. spring create a Kinship Group, of which three individThere have been very few local sightings and only a uals were observed together snowsliding downhill as few local high country snow hikers have seen prints.

EDUCATIONAL from A6 historical, social and economic impacts of a project. I am looking forward to an upcoming conference on the Past, Present, and Future of Environmental Assessment in Canada, which will include a presentation on the Ktunaxa approach to cultural and environmental assessment, as well as a case study on the Jumbo Valley as it relates to politics, geography and

environmental assessment. Environmental assessments are applied regularly to mining projects in the region related to everything from coal to gypsum, so this conference will be another excellent learning opportunity that will directly relate to issues we, as Area directors, hear about and deal with in our role. Gerry Wilkie is the Regional District of East Kootenay director for Area G, and can be reached at gdwilkie@cyberlink.bc.ca.

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

was Karen Cloutier and the men’s downhill champion was Ken Read.

years ago (1966): The Wilmer Mercantile store closed its doors after 66 years in business. Wilmer resident Mrs. Edward Rauch told The Echo she remembered going into the store in 1901, a year after it opened, when she first moved to the Upper Columbia Valley.

years ago (1976): The Canadian national downhill alpine ski championships were held at Panorama Mountain Resort. The women’s Canadian downhill champion

years ago (1991): Panorama Mountain Resort was chosen over Lake Louise and Sunshine to be the filming location of a Canadiian Olympics commercial. Calgary actors portrayed a Canadian family cheering on their alpine racing son/brother.

years ago (2001): Invermere resident Andy Stuart-Hill acheived a long-held goal by visiting his 100th country. But Mr. Stuart Hill said that despite the milestone he had no plans to stop and would continue trav-

elling to new countries.

years ago (2006): The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) was bracing for what many people were expecting to be an explosive meeting, during which the RDEK board of directors was scheduled to vote on a motion to turn over jurisdiction of the planned Jumbo Glacier Mountain Resort to the provincial goverment, to be managed as a mountain resort municipality. The motion was to be introduced by David Wilks. Then-Invermere mayor Mark Shmigelsky told The Echo the motion was a bit of a surprise to him and added he expected the meeting to be interesting.

2007 — Grade 7 students Kate Godlien and Erin Hillary dig into their CakeWalk prize during J.A. Laird’s Winter Carnival. ECHO FILE PHOTO

Wednesday, March 2, 2016March The 2,Valley The Valley Echo Wednesday, 2016 Echo

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Lost: Possibly on Lake Windermere on Feb. 13th weekend, a set of car keys with a Ford fob, 1 brown key that says M&M and a large gold key. Please call 403-819-2125.

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SAVE 30% on our Heart of the Arctic adventure. Visit Inuit communities in Greenland and Nunavut aboard the comfortable 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour. Call for details! 1800-363-7566 or visit online www.adventurecanada.com (TICO#04001400)

Employment Business Opportunities NEW EXCITING mini VLT’S. Produce buckets of cash monthly. Attracts customers like money magnets. Locations provided. Ground floor opportunity. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website www.tcvend.com

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists are in huge demand. Employers want CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Train with Canada’s best-rated program. Enroll today. www.canscribe.com. 1-800466-1535 info@canscribe.com

Education/Trade Schools INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SCHOOL. Hands-On Tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training! Funding & Housing Avail! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certiﬁcation proof. Call 1-866-399-3853 or go to: iheschool.com

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START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

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More than 1.5 million Canadian families are in need of affordable housing. Your contributions provides Habitat with the resources it needs to help families.

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Place of Worship

www.habitat.ca

CHURCH SERVICES DIRECTORY ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN MISSION OF INVERMERE 100 - 7th Ave., Invermere 250-426-7564 Pastor Rev. David Morton Worship Services Sundays 1:30 p.m. Christ Church Trinity, Invermere

RADIUM CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF JESUS FELLOWSHIP CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS #4 - 7553 Main Street W, ANGLICAN-UNITED Radium 5014 Fairway, 250-342-6633 Fairmont Hot Springs 100-7th Ave., Invermere Confession: 1/2 hr. before Mass 250-347-6334 250-341-5792 250-342-6644 Canadian Martyrs Church Reverend Laura Hermakin President: Adam Pasowisty 712 - 12 Ave, Invermere Worship Service wvsm.ca Columbia Valley Branch Saturdays, 5 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m. Worship, Every Sunday:10:30 a.m. Sundays, 9 a.m. Worship Services Bible Studies Children and Youth Sunday School Sundays St. Joseph’s Church Wednesdays, 7 p.m. at 10:30 a.m at Christ Church 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hwy. 93-95, Radium Hot Trinity, Invermere Kids’ Church Springs 1st and 3rd Sunday, March - Dec. 9 Edgewater Hall Sundays, 11 a.m. a.m. at All Saint’s, Edgewater Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. St. Anthony’s Mission 2nd Sunday, 7 p.m.: June - Oct. at Loving God, Corner of Luck and Dunn, St.Peter’s Windermere Loving People Canal Flats Saturdays, 4:30 p.m. WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED MINISTRY

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 250-342-6167 Pastor: Father Gabriel

LAKE WINDERMERE VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY ALLIANCE CHURCH 4814 Hwy. Drive, 1 km north 326 - 10th Ave., Invermere of Windermere 250-342-9535 250-342-9511 Lead Pastor: Trevor Hagan Pastor: Murray Wittke Asso. Pastor: Matt Moore lakewindermerealliance.org valleychristianonline.com Sunday is Worship February 28th 10:30 a.m. Services Worship and Life Instruction 10 a.m. Worship & Word “Follow Me - The Disciples’ Kid’s Church Provided Marriage” Sharing Truth Guest Speaker Rev. Tim Showing Love Moore, D. Min ministering Following the Spirit K.I.D.S Church for children age 3 to Grade 1; and grades 2-7, during the morning service.

A16 invermerevalleyecho.com A16 www.invermerevalleyecho.com Services

Services

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Misc Services

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

SOSBUYER.CA is buying estate jewelry,coin collections, gold nuggets.We come to you, cash paid. Call Vanessa @250-852-3056 or visit our website

LARGE FUND Borrowers Wanted Start saving hundreds of dollars today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income. Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

Pets & Livestock

Feed & Hay HAY FOR SALE. Large round bales, premium quality hay. Local delivery available. Please text or call Mike at 250420-1660.

Merchandise for Sale

Heavy Duty Machinery A-Steel Shipping Storage Containers. Used 20’40’45’53’ insulated containers. All sizes in stock. Prices starting under $2,000. Modifications possible doors, windows, walls etc., as office or living workshop etc., Ph Toll free 24 hours 1-866528-7108 or 1-778-298-3192 8am-5pm. Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale Home Improvements FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

Household Services KOOTENAY DUCT CLEANERS SPRING SPECIAL!! MARCH 2016 $250 whole home $150 mobile home Professional & Insured Locally owned & operated Toll free 1.844.428.0522

POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and installation. Call John at 403998-7907; Email to: jcameron @advancebuildings.com REFORESTATION Nursery seedlings of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free Shipping. Replacement guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-5666899 Ext:400OT.

Stop Bullies in their Tracks!

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Valley Echo

invermerevalleyecho.com A17

The Valley Echo's 2015/2016

NHL Hockey Pool Standings

This Week’s winner is:

Grand Prize

Choda Boy Head to Echo/Pioneer office to redeem your lunch 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 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24 26 27 27 29 30 30 30 33 34 35 36 36 36 39 39 41 42 42 42 42 46 47 48 48 50 50 52 53 53 55 56 57 57 59 59 59 62 62 62 65 65 67 68 68 70 70 70 73 74 74 74 74 74 79 80

Team HSB Dad +3 DR 27 +2 Hootenani + Dexter “O” slayer +3 Love the B’s + Kootenay Rangers =2 FC 09 + Harley +4 D Turner + LB 22 +7 NM 23 + Curling Iron +2 Flathot 84 +5 WTC + Cowboyz and Indian +4 Kmart Special +3 Harley 10 +4 Jye +5 DB 24 +2 Rockies 19 +5 Slev 77 +5 Lone Wolf +3 Brake Sticks 20 +2 RSJ 16 +2 Tristan Dubois Ski +4 Dominator 44 +2 T Webb +4 AllMega 01 + A’s +3 E-town 98 +2 Kelley Neale Nelly.33 +4 Beagle +3 Philip on tacos +4 CLB 77 +5 KM 10 +3 MC 21 +2 Long-Rock +2 Young Guns +2 Payci +3 Go Habs Go +5 Jet’s Baby +3 The Ultra Beauty +4 Yuki’s Monsters +5 Drinkin n Thinkin +3 Faze Zeimzeys +2 CS 14 +3 Grocery Stick +2 DQ 18 +3 Grampa 4 +4 13 Family Pantry +2 Buster’s Rez Raiders I + Tala’s Mom 2 +2 Still Guessing + RC 31 +2 Buster’s Rez Raiders II +4 Little Red +3 Berg’s Pens +3 Edge Golf +6 Old-Rock +3 ATT and KZEE +3 CR 13 Texas Mick 810 +2 Matt Santucci +4 Sportsmom3 +3 Davy 19 +6 Moose Drool +6 Ron Hunt Picks +3 Merrymen +2 NH 08 +2 Roadhammer +3 Nolan “What” Watt +3 HD 4 +5 MF 11 +2 MRN31 +4 R.O. P. +3 Taters +3 Hockey Season Widow +4 Layne Hunter +2

Total 1031 1030 1026 1020 1016 1013 1012 1010 1009 1005 1001 1000 998 997 995 992 990 989 988 987 986 985 984 980 980 979 977 977 972 970 970 970 968 964 963 962 962 962 961 961 960 959 959 959 959 958 957 956 956 955 955 953 952 952 951 949 948 948 947 947 947 944 944 944 943 943 941 939 939 938 938 938 937 936 936 936 936 936 934 933

LW 48 48 46 39 44 47 46 38 42 39 46 39 45 48 42 36 45 47 57 32 37 29 38 42 41 55 38 38 45 46 42 53 38 43 37 25 39 42 37 49 43 37 38 39 35 35 53 36 41 41 38 35 37 46 57 58 35 50 37 30 40 46 47 49 48 47 40 32 40 55 38 39 48 41 46 40 30 48 45 40

P/G

131 108 116 117 70 139 98 156 132 139 157 147 153 100 124 208 130 166 189 150 155 154 156 160 119 177 162 148 112 181 187 204 135 150 113 169 144 162 187 185 167 201 210 159 113 145 168 188 154 169 162 149 138 112 106 161 190 180 170 143 149 191 161 162 247 162 197 168 168 199 135 182 161 206 154 183 181 196 134 88

0.76 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.71 0.75 0.73 0.75 0.74 0.74 0.75 0.74 0.74 0.72 0.72 0.77 0.72 0.75 0.76 0.73 0.73 0.74 0.74 0.74 0.72 0.74 0.73 0.73 0.70 0.74 0.74 0.75 0.71 0.72 0.70 0.72 0.71 0.72 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.74 0.75 0.72 0.70 0.71 0.73 0.73 0.71 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.70 0.69 0.69 0.71 0.74 0.72 0.72 0.70 0.70 0.73 0.71 0.71 0.76 0.71 0.72 0.71 0.71 0.73 0.69 0.71 0.70 0.73 0.70 0.71 0.72 0.72 0.69 0.66