Columbia Valley Pioneer, November 3, 2022

Brisco, Edgewater, Radium, Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Canal Flats

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Rob carve out some fun at Eileen Madson Primary school (EMP)’s Pumpkin Palooza on Thursday, Oct. 27.

Photo by Jenny Hubrecht

VALLEY VIEWS

The Ghouls Night Halloween Drag Show was presented by Cabaret Calgary and Columbia Valley Pride on Saturday, Oct. 29, at the Columbia Valley Cen tre, featuring host Karla Marx alongside Lilith Fair, Hermena, and Lola Jett. Profits from this event went to funding sustain able resources for the East Koo tenay 2LGBTQiA+ community.

There were amazing costumes, friendly families, perfect weath er and a fantastic turn out at the downtown trick or treat in Inver mere on Saturday, Oct. 29.

Photos by Cortney Pitts

Photos by Cortney Pitts

Photo

VALLEY NEWS

Boil water advisory gets tempers boiling

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Ongoing sewer and water upgrades resulted in Invermere issuing a boil water ad visory last week.

On Tuesday, October 25, a valve burst on the district water main on 13th Avenue — which has been the site of infrastructure work since the summer.

The potential for contamination was small, but the district did not take any chanc es and issued the boil water advisory immediately. Testing confirmed the water was fine and the advisory was lifted on Friday, Oct. 28.

The water main break was not the result of a mistake, but rather came because the only thing holding the valve on the ancient pipes in place, was the weight of the earth above. Contractors had been working on the second phase of water and sewer upgrades since early July. They literally had just one more residential hookup to complete on Tuesday, Oct. 25, before they could declare the 13th Avenue part of the project done and then turn their attention to 15th Street. But as they removed the soil to do that fi nal hookup, the sudden lack of ground pressure on the faulty valve caused it to explode.

“It flew apart. A lot of water gushed out very quickly before our team got the sys tem shut down. We pulled our director of public works out of a meeting, and she put together a play that helped solve things swiftly. We are very grateful to her for that,” Invermere mayor, Al Miller, told the Pioneer. “I do feel that this demonstrates exactly why we are doing these infrastructures upgrades. Our water and sewer infrastructure is just not in good shape on 13th Avenue. We desperately need the upgrades.”

On the evening of Tuesday, Oct. 25, municipal employees went door to door throughout Invermere, handing out notices about the boil water advisory. It applied to all neighbourhoods of Invermere except for the Pineridge, Westridge and Castlerock subdivisions. The advisory said not to drink the water.

Miller explained that the district didn’t think there was any issue with the water quality, but wanted to have an advisory in place until the water could be tested, just to be sure.

The district put the advisory up on its website, on its Facebook page, and used sev eral electronic billboards around town to notify residents of the advisory.

Still, the Pioneer heard from multiple residents upset (some very much so) that the district had not done more to notify them of the advisory.

June Minaker did not see a municipal employee come to her door, did not receive a notice and did not see any of the electronic billboards. “I casually bumped into a neigh bour. If I had not, I would not know. Perhaps I could have become very ill,” outlined Minaker. She questioned why the district did not make phone calls to let its citizens know of the advisory.

“I phoned the district to ask how would I know when this advisory is lifted, and I was told that this would be placed on Facebook. What about people who do not use Facebook? Or those who do not go to the district’s Facbook site?” asked Minaker. “This again is unacceptable and does not take responsibility towards its citizens.”

She added that she found much of the information on the district’s website not specifically clear, and felt that it did not fully outline the potential seriousness of the situation. This, she contrasted with what the City of Kelowna did on its website, noting Kelowna provided much more detailed information.

Minaker was also vexed by the lack of details surrounding the water quality testing, noting that “Invermere...does not outline how this testing occurs and by whom.”

Employees in the Radi um and Invermere Branch es of the Kootenay Savings Credit Union (KSCU), through the credit union’s Care Wear program, do nated $1, 202 to Columbia Valley Search & Rescue. In the photo are Jessica Clark, Heather Fullerton, James Kelly, Tara Field, Michael Power, Kris Murrell, Joyce McMurray, Tasha Shellborn, Shelly Kochorek.

KSCU employees absent include: Terry Traverse, Amanda Osterlund, Debbie Baskerville and Lisa Stevenson.

Aron Burke, community liaison, Kootenay Savings Credit Union in Trail, BC, told the Pioneer in an email, “To celebrate International Credit Union Day last week, Kootenay Savings Credit Union (KSCU) employees donated the proceeds from the credit union’s Care Wear program - $21,636 - to 27 different charities and non-profits organizations.”

Yearly, Kootenay Savings Credit Union (KSCU) employees contribute one dollar each week to dress casually on Fridays; the contributions are matched by the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation and go into the Care Wear program. In turn, the funds are donated to an organization chosen by the employees of respective branches. Tara Field, branch manager, Invermere/Radium Kootenay Savings, said in an email, “The Invermere and Radium team felt Columbia Search and Rescue was a de serving (group) due to the organization being non-profit and 100% volunteer based…” She noted the directors on the board of KSCU are local to each of the communities to which they serve and that Invermere and Radium have participated since the program was initiated. Since starting in 2004, said Field and Burke, the Care Wear program has shared over $420,000 to help support a wide range of causes held near and dear to employees.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Invermere and Radium Savings Credit Union employees donate to CV Search & Rescue

Photo submitted

RCMP Report

Submitted by Cpl. Jeff Witzke, Columbia Valley RCMP

This past week, October 24th through October 31st, Columbia Valley RCMP responded to 77 calls for ser vice. The following is a summary of some of the files our officers responded to.

On Wednesday, October 26, RCMP were made aware of a break and enter to a local business in the Inver mere industrial park. The suspects broke into the com plex, where they stole numerous items including a freight truck. The vehicle was located nearby, abandoned, how ever some of the items stolen are still outstanding. This file is still under investigation, however police have iden tified suspects for this (and) other thefts that occurred in the last 48 hours.

On Thursday, October 27, RCMP received a stolen vehicle report that occurred overnight. The vehicle stolen was a white Ford F250 and is still unaccounted for.

Also reported on this day, in separate incidents, were

catalytic convertors being cut out from the exhaust sys tem on 2 vehicles; a stolen mountain bike and; a stolen tool box from the back of a truck bed. The RCMP believe all these incidents are connected and they are currently still under investigation.

On Friday, October 28, RCMP received a report re garding missing/lost firearms. The owner contacted the RCMP, to notify them that his two long barrelled fire arms fell out the bed of his truck while he was driving, and he was unable to locate them. A short time later, a passerby located the firearms and attended the detach ment to turn them in. A big thank you to the passerby.

Columbia Valley RCMP are reminding everyone travelling through the park and for that matter, any where, to give themselves extra time and prepare for win ter driving. Snow is starting to fall at the higher eleva tions. With the extra traffic being diverted onto Hwys 93 and 95, RCMP are asking that you please take your time and drive to the conditions.

Pumpkin Palooza

Eileen Madson Primary School (EMP) was a scene of Halloween during its annual Pumpkin Palooza on Thursday, Oct. 27.

Photos by Jenny Hubrecht

Lack of cyclist friendly options creates downtown conundrum

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

In recent years, the lack of designated bike lanes in downtown Invermere, par ticularly along main street, has become a source of occasional complaints from local residents and sometimes, from visitors, who are upset about what they see as a safety hazard.

Earlier this fall the matter was briefly discussed by members of Invermere’s outgo ing council, sparked by Invermere councillor Greg Anderson (who did not seek re-elec tion in October’s municipal election, and who will no longer be on council once the new council is inaugurated on Nov. 15).

Anderson noted he saw a number of youth riding their bikes on the sidewalks along 7th Avenue (Invermere’s main street) a few times during the summer, when the sidewalks are quite crowded with pedestrians on foot. He noted that really young kids sometimes do the same, but they tend to roll along the sidewalks with much more cau tion, while the teens were moving at a pretty good clip, which is obviously dangerous. When the Pioneer followed up with Anderson, he reiterated that hazard.

“The new council will have to decide to do something about, or to not do some thing about it. But I think we as a district, have to do something more than what we have been doing so far, which is not much,” Anderson told the Pioneer

Part of the complication is that adding bike lanes to main street would necessarily mean removing some of the current angled vehicle parking and replacing it instead with parallel parking, and a majority of the downtown business community has long been vocally opposed to losing any parking near their storefronts, pointing out it could result in a loss of customers for them.

“It is probably at least feasible to add more places to park and lock up your bikes downtown,” said Anderson. “Right now we don’t even have any signs up.”

He said he understands the hesitancy of some bicyclists to roll right down main street, given how busy with traffic it can be during the summer, and given that the an gled parking means it can sometimes be hard for cyclists to see drivers backing up and vice versa.

Invermere’s downtown streets, especially main street, can get quite crowded with pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle traffic in summer. Several council members recently voiced their concerns over the hazard this entails. In the past, residents have pointed out that Invermere’s down town lacks bike lanes and has precious few places to lock up bikes.

Photos by Ryan Watmough

A seagull eased in for landing in the waters of Lake Windermere recently.

Photo by Joanne McQuarrie

Historical LensHistorical Lens PERSPECTIVE

Prepare for safe winter travelling

By Joanne McQuarrie editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com

November is a month of many weather patterns. So far, snow is taking its time making an entrance - which is great for safe driving conditions. But -it’s good to be prepared for the seasonal changes that are coming. Highway conditions are subject to sudden changes depending on the elevation and weather. In BC moun tain passes, a sunny day can quickly turn into a storm of snow.

Snow tires are integral to safety on the road. They’re required from October 1 to April 30. For select highways that aren’t located in mountains passes and high snowfall areas, the requirements end on March 3, says a BC gov ernment website.

The website also recommends carrying an emergen cy kit that contains a number of items: a first aid kit and medications; a three-day to one week supply of non-per ishable food, with a manual can opener; four litres of (preferably bottled) water per person, per day, for drink ing and sanitation (some people need more) - and water for your pet(s); a phone charger, power bank or inverter; a battery-powered or and-crank radio and flashlight; ex tra batteries; personal toiletries and items such as an extra pair of glasses/contact lenses; a copy of your emergency plan and copies of important documents; cash in small bills; garbage bags and moist towelettes; seasonal cloth ing, sturdy footwear and emergency blanket(s); dust masks; a whistle; a ‘Help’/OK sign.

Having lights on is another safety measure, the site reads, considering it’s difficult to see other vehicles during dark, wintery days. Our your vehicle lights on all the way - headlights and tail lights.

There are tips more specifically for commercial vehi cles, recreational vehicles and trailers.

An Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) site recommends also carrying flares, matches and a lighter, and candles; a shovel and traction mat, sand or kitty litter and battery jumper cables.

ICBC noted during the weather, with quickly-chang ing temperatures, black ice can form unexpectedly and may not be visible. It’s found commonly on roads with shaded areas, bridges, overpasses and intersections where car exhaust and packed snow freeze quickly. If you drive over black ice, ease off the accelerator and look and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go. Do not brake. For all kinds of winter hazards there are two key tips: reduce your speed and increase your following distance. These tips can help make travelling on the roadways a safe time this winter.

Safe travels everywhere, everyone!

. . . ‘Lake of cylcist friendly’ from 5

At the same time, said Anderson, “If I was biking, I’m not sure I would try to go on the sidewalk. It’s a prob lem.”

Councillor Kayja Becker, who, unlike Anderson, will be back on council for another four year term, also spoke to the topic during the council meeting.

“The lack of bike lanes — that’s the thing,” Becker said when the Pioneer followed up with her. “The odd per son on a bike on the sidewalk can be okay, but not too many. But I understand if cyclists, especially the younger ones, are not comfortable on main street out among the cars...Maybe we do need to put in more bike lanes in some parts of downtown, because the current situation is not safe.”

Becker noted that as e-bikes continue to become popular — and more prevalent — things could easily get worse downtown, especially since it is quite easy for people to inadvertently get e-bikes moving fast.

She did acknowledge however, that adding bike lanes on main street itself would be very tricky, given that it would mean fewer parking spaces.

“We don’t really have the space for bike lines on main street without losing parking. So we may have to get creative. It’s complicated. But while we figure out a long term solution, we should at least be able to put up some signs helping educate everybody that the road is not just for vehicles, and that drivers need to be share the road with cyclists.”

Invermere mayor Al Miller shares Becker’s and Anderson’s worries.

“Certainly there’s a concern there. We need to try to develop a proper active transportation network right through town. But implementing it will take some time, because we do, unfortunately, have very narrow streets,” Miller told the Pioneer

He also pointed out the angled parking conundrum that inhibits bike lanes and noted that the district can theoretically make the downtown more cyclist-friendly without necessarily have bike lines right on main street.

“If we do want to have bike lane right through main street, parking may have to change, and we want to be careful about that...There’s only so much you can squeeze into a main street downtown, but we may need to look a different options. The need is there, biking is becoming more popular. We’re going to have to take a look at it, but we need to do a proper traffic and parking analysis to figure out the best way to have an active transportation network right through town...It is something that is important for the future.”

Amanda Nason

Steve Hubrecht

Chadd Cawson Local

Emily Rawbon Graphic

Christina Boucher Office Administrator

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Joanne McQuarrie Editor Ext. 107

Invermere, Toby Block - 7th Ave. Circa 1792. Two women at store check out. Inside Warne’s Drug Store with Bond’s Hard ware across the street. Pictured are Mrs. Fran Warne and Peggy Caspell. Source Jim Warne.

Photos courtesy of the Windermere Distric Historical Society

Invermere adopts Athalmer plan

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Invermere council has officially adopted the Athalmer neighbourhood plan.

The adoption came during last week’s Tuesday, October 25 council meeting and brings to a close a process that has been unfolding over the past several years.

The plan encompasses the Lake Windermere Resorts Lands, which stretch along the shore of the Columbia River and Lake Windermere and, in places, border James Chabot Provincial Park. The District of Invermere (DOI) bought these parcels of lands for $5 mil lion in 2019, follow ing a referendum on the matter in 2018, which showed 66 per cent of voters in fa vour of the purchase.

Once the deed was in the district’s hand, it needed to figure out precise ly what to do with the land, and so, in winter 2020, hired a planning consul tancy company to create the Athalmer neighbourhood plan.

Through this process, Invermere residents consistently voiced opinions in favour of minimal development and maximum public greenspace on the Lake Windermere Re sorts Lands, and the final concept Althalmer neighourhood plan did in fact reflect that feedback.

It was that final concept that Invermere council adopted last week.

“It’s done and dusted,” Invermere mayor Al Miller told the Pioneer, after the meet ing. “It has been a long, long process. Athlamer is the door, or the gateway, to our com munity, so we needed to be sure to get the plan right, and I believe we have.”

The district and its consulting planners had to go back to the proverbial drawing board several times throughout the past two years, but Miller feels the end results are worth it.

“I think everybody feels good about it. We’ve listened, we’ve heard, and we’ve put it to bed now,” he said. “We’ve ended up in a good spot. I don’t think that anybody really wanted to see heavy development on this land. We want to keep it open and park-like. And that’s what this plan has. We’ll be able to expand the amount of public waterfront in the district, once this plan is in place...After it’s cleaned up and beautified, it will be an excellent public space for our citizens to enjoy and also for our visitors to enjoy.”

In terms of when the plan may be put into action, Miller explained that personally he is in favour of moving quickly, but that he is just one member of Invermere’s new council, and that the views of all the new and returning council members need to be considered before any decision on when and how to start implementing the plan can be made and budgeted for.

The recently Athalmer Neighbourhood Plan outlines the district of Invermere’s vision for different land uses in Athalmer, including the landmark Lake Windermere Resorts Lands (LWR lands) project. This (these) image(s) taken from Invermere council documents show which parts of the Athalmer are designated for which types of land uses

Over the next two years there followed multiple rounds of public consultation, surveys, workshops, open houses and refinements of var ious draft concepts.

Former Radium fire chief given golden axe

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

Former Radium fire chief, Dave Dixon, was honoured recently for his decades of service.

Dixon retired as chief last December, after 32 years on the job. At a meeting of all East and West Kootenay fire chiefs on Sunday, October 23, the fire chiefs presented Dixon with a gold plated fire axe as commemoration for his time as Radium chief.

“It was a gift on behalf of all the chiefs,” said current Radium fire chief Trevor Carr. “He’s served Radium for a really long time and spent a good portion of his life on the Radium fire department.”

In fact Dixon’s service continues. He may have stepped down as fire chief, but he continues to volunteer as a firefighter with the Radium department and leads the Radi um fire orientation program for the village’s newly recruited firefighters.

“He (Dixon) was chief even before Radium incorporated and became its own com munity...He’s seen a lot of changes in how firefighting works. I can’t even begin to list everything he’s done for the Radium fire department. He is a true asset to the commu nity,” Carr told the Pioneer.

“This is absolutely warranted. Of course Dave deeply deserves this recognition. His service to the village has been outstanding. We’ve very grateful for everything Dave has done for Radium,” outgoing Radium mayor, Clara Reinhardt, told the Pioneer.

Dixon joked to the Pioneer that “getting a golden axe is better than getting a golden handshake”, then, turning serious, he added “It was a surprise. I feel honoured and humbled.”

Speaking to the length of his service he said “It was getting time to step down, when I retired, but I have to say I enjoyed my time as chief quite a bit.”

Westside Park parcel zoning changed from commercial to residential

By Steve Hubrecht steve@columbiavalleypioneer.com

A part — although not all — of the Westside Park neighbourhood that is zoned for commercial develop ment, was changed by Invermere council to residential zoning last week.

When the development plan for what is now known as the Westside Park subdivision was adopted 20 years ago, its neighbourhood plan outlined a vision of integrat ed residential development, open and recreational space and small-scale ‘neighbourhood’ commercial develop ment (such as corner shop grocery stores or one or twopump gas bars similar in scope to Pip’s Country Store in Edgewater).

In the ensuing two decades the size and location of the commercially zoned areas has been amended several times but no developments have ever actually been con structed, or even gotten as far in the planning process as the District of Invermere’s development permitting stage.

The current owner of a square-shaped Westside Park parcel that is immediately to the north of Westside Park Drive and immediately west of 13th Avenue, wanted to change the zoning, feeling that the property is better suit

This screenshot from Invermere council documents shows the location of the Westside Park parcel recently rezoned from commercial to residential.

ed for multi-family residential development similar to the multi-family residential homes already built on adjacent Westside Park parcels.

Invermere council agreed during its Tuesday, Octo ber 25 meeting.

“There’s a small chunk that is still commercial but most is now residential, so the developer can move for ward with that (residential development),” said Inver mere mayor, Al Miller, after the meeting.

Rockies continue to roll in KIJHL regular season action

Submitted by Mark Payne

The Columbia Valley Rockies, in the Kootenay In ternational Junior Hockey League (KIJHL), finished the month of October on a winning note this past weekend.

The Rockies had a shootout win against the 100 Mile Wranglers with a 2-1 score on October 29. The night be fore, the Rockies beat Creston Valley 6-3 before return ing home to Invermere.

The Rockies will head on the road with games next weekend against North Okanagan, Kelowna. Then the following weekend Columbia Valley will play in Sum merland and then, division rival Fernie.

Home games in November will take place at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena on Friday November 11th and 12th against Kamloops, and division leader, Kim berley.

After heading to Castlegar and Grand Forks the Rockies will return home to the valley to close out the month against Grand Forks, completing a home and home series with the Bruins on the 26th.

For all the up to date KIJHL action check out www. kijhl.ca including up to date league standings.

https://www.rockieshockey.ca/stats/standings

Moon over the mountains

As the valley reaches mid-autumn, longer nights mean more time to ap preciate the glow of the full moon.

Photo by Chadd Cawson

Flower power-pollinator garden planted at Invermere Hospital

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

More than just a term coined in the sixties, flowers really do hold a special power. Interior Health’s environ mental sustainability committee sent out an open invi tation at the beginning of October to all staff at Inver mere and District Hospital (IDH) to participate in the ‘Healthy Growth: Patients and Pollinators’ wildflower garden project on Oct. 6.

Consultations with local gardeners and Winderber ry Nursery for this project proved that fall was the most optimal time to plant wildflowers, to see them sprout in the spring.

“Wildflowers support pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which in turn help provide food sources for both wildlife and people. Diversifying the green space adds value and appeal to the healing and restorative na ture of wildflowers for patients, families, and Interior Health staff,” said Amanda McKenzie, Interior Health, environmental sustainability manager. “The garden will lead to better patient and staff wellbeing through im proved patient satisfaction. It creates an environment which facilitates physiological and psychological healing when surrounded by it.”

Several volunteers came out to get their hands dirty. They helped convert an empty green space at Invermere Hospital to a wildflower meadow, to increase patient and staff well-being, promote pollinators and biodiversity, and reduce maintenance costs. Mountain wildflower and interior pollinator seeds were chosen because of the low requirement for watering and high ability to attract polli nators. Some of the perennials and native species includ ed are crocus, daffodils, coneflowers, lupines, fireweed, and poppies. Selected clover was also planted for its abil ity to retain moisture in ground cover.

Part of this day included volunteers trialing mead ow scaping in the center courtyard. The aim of this is to encourage pollinator diversity, reintroduction of native plants and increased social benefits for patients and staff alike.

The sustainability engagement program, which en courages staff to have sustainability committees across Interior Health, was established in 2021. The ‘Healthy Growth: Patients and Pollinators’ wildflower garden is one of the committee’s recent initiatives.

“At Interior Health, we believe that all of us have a role to play in delivering health care that is environmen tally responsible and sustainable,” said McKenzie. “Giv en the challenges with a changing climate, departments across Interior Health are encouraged to identify prac tice, process and technology improvements that also have a co-benefit to the environment. As part of the program, Jessie Stoney, community health nurse and environmen tal sustainability champion at IDH, leads a committee and influences and promotes environmental improve ment projects at IDH.”

Once in bloom, the new garden will be an improve ment to the environment. It will not only be an attractant for native pollinators, because they act as a buffer for the impacts of climate change, but it will require less water ing than an average lawn and with its ability to retain water, it will also increase fire safety.

The Invermere Rotary Club, a supporter of this proj ect and other ongoing initiatives, provided pizza for all the volunteers in attendance. It may take a village to raise a child, but it takes a community to plant a special gar den.

“I’m so proud to be a part of something that makes the world a little better. Our health is impacted by so much and climate change will have equally huge implica tions,” Stoney said. “It’s inspiring to know my colleagues, workplace, and community are all working together for a brighter future.”

Invites all members and interested parties to the Annual General Meeting

November 28, 2022, 7 p.m.

Summit Youth Hub 701A 7th Ave, Invermere

Review 2022 operations and provide 2023 outlook Nomination and election for board of directors please advise if interested in joining the board

Full details available upon request summit centre@gmail com • All welcome!

Adults Understanding How Children Grieve Workshop

Using the Rainbows International Program model, this workshop is designed to provide support to adults wishing to understand how children grieve and how to help with the process

The effect of grief on academic performance and well being at school is well documented It is common for manifestations of grief to be misinterpreted as misbehaviour

Tuesday, November 15th, 2022

Virtual (Zoom) 5:30 to 8:30 p m

Pre registration is required by NOON, November 14th, 2022

Please contact Hospice Society at 778 526 5143 or send an email to ed@hospicesocietycv com to receive your Zoom link

Champions Workshop

Volunteers came out on October 6 to help plant a pollinator garden at Invermere Hospital. Not all volunteers in atten dance were able to stay for the group photo. From left to right are: Amy Brown, Laura Slipp, Lisa Turley, Peter Hale, Gabby Orr, Jessie Stoney, Jane Fleet, and Natasha Friesen. Photo submitted.

OUT OF OFFICE…

Tourism and Hospitality Businesses Encouraged to Participate

(Invermere) Credible wage surveys are valuable in any economic environment. They provide statistical insights into the hypercompetitive labour market. A thorough analysis allows you to maximize the return on investment (ROI) of your overall compensation programs.

Typically, salary surveys as they are colloquially known, are conducted in larger metropolitan areas like Vancouver or Calgary. While credible research, oftentimes, this data does not apply to smaller centers that we have in the Kootenay Rockies region. This survey will be able to offer comprehensive regional specific industry data.

As a part of the HR Advisory Services initiative that began earlier this summer, wages have emerged as a key theme for businesses in the Kootenay Rockies region. By conducting a wage survey, go2HR’s hope is to have the data available to align with the next business planning cycle.

The intent of the pilot project would be to trial this for a two-year period. If successful, the thought is, this would become an annual or bi-annual survey. The methodology may also be replicated in other regions

of the province.

Interested in helping out? It’s simple and straightforward. Survey participants need to answer a few questions about the business, for example, what city are they located in and share entry level wages for each position that the business employs. You must indicate whether the position is seasonal, year-round or both. Indicate whether any seasonal bonuses are applied.

Register to participate today!

Survey opens October 19, 2022 and closes November 16, 2022. Data will be available to participants at the beginning of December.

What’s in It for Me?

Survey participants will be able to access all the results, which will be unavailable to the general public or non-participating businesses. This could easily be a “leg up” in this highly competitive market for talent.

About go2HR: go2HR is BC’s tourism and hospitality human resource and health and safety association. We empower

employers to have a strong human resource and health and safety culture that supports strong business performance.

Our programs offer tools, information, and consulting services to elevate employers’ human resources and health and safety practices. We offer education and training for current and future workforces. We work as a resource to inform government, stakeholders, and communities on labour market conditions and strategies concerning BC’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

WHAT’S HAPPENING? cvevents.ca

POWERED BY THE COLUMBIA VALLEY CHAMBER

ursday, November 3

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson

• 10:30 a.m.: Family Story Time at the Invermere Public Library. Stories, songs and crafts.

• 12 & 5 p.m.: Edgewater Legion wing day! 12 p.m.: Takeout, 5 p.m. dine-in, call 250-347-9725.

• 1 p.m.: Seniors’ duplicate bridge: Costs $2 at the Invermere Senior’s Hall.

• 2 p.m.: Free Youth Drop-in Fun at the Youth Hub.

• 4-8 p.m.: Pub grub at the Invermere Legion every Friday and Saturday.

• 5:30 p.m.: Magic the Gathering. Play in the tournament at 5:30. Age 10+, $20.

• 6 p.m.: Rotary Community Bingo: Must be 19+ to play. Join us to raise money, give back, have fun, and support local. Visit us on Facebook to purchase your bingo card.

• 7 p.m.: Drop-in Adult Parkour. Contact coachlisaparkour@gmail.com.

• 9 p.m: Karaoke Night at the Windermere Whitehouse Pub. Must be 19+, come have fun!

Saturday, November 5

● November 5-6: Ignite your Life! Women’s Weekend Virtual Workshop. Listen to community ambassadors, learn about action steps, hear success stories. 100% of proceeds from this weekend go to the Rise and Shine Bursary Program

● 6 p.m.: 49th Annual Fireman’s Ball at the Columbia Valley Centre

• 10:30 a.m.: LEGO/Duplo at the Invermere Public Library, drop-in fun.

2 p.m.: Senior’s Tea at the Invermere Public Library (Second and 4th Thursdays of each month)

• 2 p.m.: Tech Time at the Radium Public Library (free tech assistance and support drop-in)

• 3 p.m.: Free youth drop-in fun at the Youth Hub

• 6:30 p.m.: Darts, cards and Cribbage at the Invermere Legion every Thursday.

• 6:45 p.m.: Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament at the Invermere Legion for members and guests. $30 buy in.

• 7:30 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Whitehouse Pub in Windermere. $3/ per person, ages 19+.

• 9 p.m.: Karaoke at the Station Pub. Every second Thursday, 19+.

Friday, November 4

• 9-10:30 a.m.: Mom t and preschool group at the Columbia Valley Centre.

• 4-8 p.m.: Pub Grub at the Invermere Legion, Fridays and Saturdays.

Sunday, November 6

• 9 a.m.: Bottle drive - Rotary Fundraiser. The Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station. Raised funds are used for the community.

• 7 p.m. Live Music at Horsethief Pub.

Monday, November 7

• 9 a.m.: Bottle drive - Rotary Fundraiser. The Rotary Club collects refundable bottles at the Invermere Transfer Station. Raised funds are used for the community.

• 9:15 a.m.: StrongStart at Eileen Madson Primary.

• 10-11 a.m.: Seniors Yoga: Columbia Valley Community Centre ($2).

• 1:30 p.m.: Seniors Carpet Bowling. Join us for $2 at the Invermere Senior’s Hall.

• 4 p.m.: LGBTQ+ and Allies Drop-In and Hangout: Youth Centre Hub.

• 5 p.m.: Industry night at the Whitehouse – pool and drinks for resort and restaurant sta .

• 6:30 p.m.: Poker Night at the Station Pub: Chip up for Charity. Every second Monday, bar is open with light snacks, 19+.

Tuesday, November 8

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart/ CAP-C at Edgewater Elementary (children 0-5 and caregivers).

• 10 a.m.: Parent & Tot connect: at the Early Years Centre

• 10:30 a.m.: Seniors Fitness at the Columbia Valley Centre ($2 drop in)

• 10:30 a.m.: Homeschool Meetup at the Invermere Public Library

• 3 p.m.: Free youth drop-in fun: at the Summit Youth Centre.

• 6-8:30 p.m.: Second Winds Community Band Rehearsal: Tuesdays at the Invermere Catholic Hall. BYO Instrument, Contact Ian at 250-342-9733.

Wednesday, November 9

• 9 a.m.: StrongStart Drop-in for kids 0-6 & Caregivers in Canal Flats at Martin Morigeau

• 10 a.m.: Parent and Tot Connect at the Early Years Centre

• 10-11 a.m.: Seniors Yoga: Columbia Valley Community Centre ($2 drop in).

• 12:30 p.m.: Seniors duplicate Bridge: $2 at the Invermere Senior’s Hall.

• 12-8 Wear Wednesdays. Come to Arrowhead Brewery wearing our swag for $1 o your pint.

• 3 p.m.: Free youth Drop-in: at the Summit Youth Centre.

• 5 p.m.: Dinner at the Legion. Reserve your table by the Saturday Prior: 250-342-9517

• 7 p.m.: Trivia Night at the Station Pub. $5/ person, max 6/ team.

● Immersion Festival: Creative Expressions Workshops This week

CBEEN awarded 12 educators for excellence in environmental education

Three local educators recognized at provincial conference on Oct. 21

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After a year-long hiatus, the Colum bia Basin Environmental Education Net work (CBEEN) recognized 12 outstand ing educators across the Columbia Basin at an awards ceremony on October 21. They were awarded for excellence in edu cating students and the public about envi ronmental stewardship and sustainability at the Classrooms to Communities 2022 provincial conference in Revelstoke.

“The 2022 award winners include ear ly years, Indigenous and community edu cators, along with primary and intermedi ate teachers. All are committed to creating opportunities for people to connect with, learn about, and learn from our amazing local environment,” said Mia King, pro gram manager, CBEEN. “We are grateful for their dedication to increasing the eco logical literacy of students, professionals, and community members throughout the Columbia Basin.”

Local award recipients include Indig enous educator, Jenna Jasek, and primary teacher, Jodi Casey, from Invermere and Early Years educator, Evelyn Walker of Little Badgers Early Learning. Each one brought their own unique style to edu cating young people about the great out doors.

Jasek works the with Rocky Moun

tain School District 6 and is the vice principal for Indigenous Education and Equity. She works closely with CBEEN and provides opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the environment. Jasek helped start the Every Child Matters movement in the valley and co-hosts the year-long learning challenge. She provides Indigenous learning resources to fellow educators and peers.

“My passion for learning about my culture and sharing knowledge with stu dents and staff is a gift for Mother Earth. She is our greatest teacher,” said Jasek in an October press release, and added, “… I will always be on this journey and invite others to join me. KUKSTSEMC!”

Casey is a grade two teacher at Ei leen Madson School and has worked for 22 years in the division. For more than a decade she has been working in envi ronmental education and welcomes col leagues at school to join her and her class in taking their teaching and learning out doors.

“It is an honour to be recognized with a group of colleagues who are all so pas sionate about providing experiences out doors with students. It really touched my heart that someone in our community took the time to nominate me”, said Ca sey. She said she saw quickly, that children thrive and find inspiration in nature.

Walker is a lead teacher at Little Bad

gers Early Learning where her students, ages 18 months to five years, get to experi ence a myriad of things from ice-fishing to hatching chickens. When she joined the Little Badger team three years ago Walk er’s dream was to build a garden for the Akisqnuk community and it came to frui tion; the Learning Garden has brought to gether both the Akisqnuk and Little Bad ger community with its students, learning first-hand about the cycle of planting and harvesting a garden.

Walker said she and her supportive board of directors, manager and team have plans for a fishing program this winter.

Walker joked that if there was an award for most spiders rescued, her kids would win it.

“As an early childhood educator, I am honoured to receive this award. I feel it shows our team that we are on the right path in our offerings, and it encourages all of us to think outside the box,” said Walk er. “Spending time in nature in the early years builds a foundation for the future. Not only does it allow children opportu nities for imaginative and creative play, but it teaches children how to self-regulate and what calm feels like.”

Other award recipients include teach ers and community and Indigenous edu cators across the Basin: Lisa Moore, Matt Kieller, Sarah Newton, Hailey Ross, and Jade Berrill from Revelstoke; Caren Nagao

from Golden; Rita Corcoran from Slocan Valley; Cheryl Anderson from Kimberley and; Kathy Murray from the Fernie/Elk Valley area.

Hockey: A TEAM approach

Submitted by Mark Payne

When I was a kid I wanted to become a sportscaster, I realized my love for the game was ever present, while my skills on the ice weren’t at the level to play the game at the highest level. I never let that stop me and it eventually led me to coaching.

I have stories for days about the game and we are go ing to share some of them on a weekly basis to encourage more youth to get out and play hockey this winter. Hock ey schools, equipment, travel have all become barriers to entry into the game. Every winter we are seeing fewer players play hockey. The valley has a huge advantage: it’s free to play outside on the lake!

My best hockey memories were playing with my brother in the garage, and between periods watching playoff hockey. We would collapse, covered in sweat on the family couch between periods. As soon as the next period would end we would be back in the garage to play Game seven.

My dad used to tell us that sports is the ‘sandbox of life’ and that it ‘takes all types’. The past few seasons his words have helped me navigate a changing world. In my time running the U18 Midget AA Blackhawks, we focused on ‘team’. The slogan stood for ‘Teamwork, Atti tude, Enthusiasm and Motivation’

Two of the highlights from summer hockey camp were two players from Invermere who both embodied this credo: Tobin Donahue and Paddy Donahue. Paddy, the oldest of three brothers, was a natural leader for the

players, as an on-ice instructor and, if you had a chance to see him skate in the junior prep group, a great-skating, quick forward with soft hands around the net. He is a rookie this season with the Columbia Valley Rockies.

Paddy’s youngest brother, Tobin: this kid gets it. He was always the first U13 player at the rink and always had a great attitude. I’d get to the rink with coffee and donuts and the call was, ‘Hey Payner!’ My friends have always called me Payne and I was never comfortable with being called coach, and rarely respond to Mark.

One morning Tobin described to me his friend Jake (who) was facing an injury. I was concerned as two, three ice times over a five-day period in the middle of August can be a lot to ask of players. Jake got to the rink and explained his injury to me. His mom had warned him to wear sunscreen on the boat; she even added that a bad sunburn could make wearing his shoulder pads painful and difficult. Well that was his injury - day to day with a sunburn. While I was concerned for the Rockies forward, we had to take advantage of the opportunity for a nick name and ‘Sunburn’ was born.

Tobin took part in week two of the camp and on the second Friday he let me know Sunburn would be back for week three. When Jake entered the room he announced he no longer had a sunburn but he was starting to peel. So now we just call him Peeler.

In terms of coachable moments, one of the difficult situations is making sure the players are included in the laughs. After talking to Tobin, Jake’s parents and Jake, we knew he was more than comfortable with the nickname.

At a Classrooms to Communities provincial conference held in Revelstoke on October 21, the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) recognized 12 outstanding educators across the Colum bia Basin for their excellence in environ mental education. Submitted Photo

We had a tougher time wiping the smile off his face, then getting his shoulder pads on too. Kids at any age can be a tough read and the focus needs to be that they are en joying all aspects of coming to the rink. It’s everyone’s sandbox.

While competitive juices flow, it is free to be nice and the game is supposed to be fun! That TEAM slogan is how you develop winners and I’m not referring to hock ey. Keep it fun this season!

With Mark Payne are Jake Gramlich and Tobin Donahue. Photo submitted

Ominous

THE WILD FILES

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Giving a hoot

As we wind down from all the Halloween fun in Oc tober, let’s pay homage to one more winged friend that can often complement the season: the owl.

With over 200 species of owls across the globe, one of the most common species we see flying over the un ceded territories of the Secwépemc and Ktunaxa Peoples and the land chosen as home by the Métis Peoples of B.C., is the great horned owl, also known as the tiger or hoot owl.

Great horned owls are the second largest owl in North America, next to the snowy owl, but they are the heaviest. They are typically over 60 cm in height and can weigh up to three kg, and have a wingspan of 1.4 metres. The majestic birds are very adaptable and call a number of places home including forests, wetlands, grassland, cit ies, deserts, the Arctic and the tropics.

Known for their large, piercing eyes that can see a great distance and said to act as a telephoto lens for them, great horned owls also have large heads and bar rel-shaped bodies. They are multi-coloured brown with darker markings on their broad wings, making it perfect for them to camouflage amongst the trees. They all have a white throat patch and a facial disc which are either red dish-brown or gray in colour. While this species doesn’t have horns, they do have tufts of feathers around their facial disc called plumicorns; their purpose remains un known. Both their beak and talons are a dark gray and the latter can pick up small animals such as cats, some small dogs and skunks.

While they don’t have many natural predators, owls’ biggest prey and favourite things to dine on are members of the rodent family: rabbits, hares, voles, rats, or mice. But they will think outside their typical menu if they see another small animal they can overtake when hunger strikes. In the wild, great horned owls live up to 28 years but in captivity some have lived to be 50.

The Parliament

Seeing a group of owls together can be referred to as a parliament. They’re also called a silence, as owls are ninjas in flight and when hunting for prey. Like many winged species there is no name to distinguish the gen der, but like many birds, the females are the larger of the two. Much like the raven or crow, depending on your beliefs, seeing a parliament overhead can either bring bad juju and can signify either the upcoming death of some one close or an important public figure. Great horned owls are quite swift for their size and shape and can reach speeds of up to 65 km per hour in flight.

Horned Owl

Don’t be alarmed by a hoot in the night or any time of day: it is how owls communicate with each other and more importantly, attract a mate. Like other male birds, the owl looks for love in the fall and attracts the female with wooing hoots, along with an invite to a suitable nest and food. Male owls are normally loners until they send out their call for love. Once the female accepts the edi ble offering, the passion begins followed by cuddling and preening each other. All owl species are known to go the distance and mate for life. A mother owl will lay three to four white eggs in the late winter months of January or

February and will incubate them for 37 days. Baby owls, called fledglings or owlets, are quite fluffy and when first hatched, are dependent on their mothers for everything and like to stick close to their siblings.

Word to the Wise

In many Indigenous cultures, all species of owls signify and represent intuition, prophecy, and wisdom. They are viewed as messengers and have been looked to for insight and a connection to the spirit world by many First Nation healers over time. They are said to be very observant thoughtful creatures and loyal listeners.

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11:00am – 4:30pm

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In 2021 the Lake Windermere Ambassadors and Columbia Lake Stewardship Society partnered with Lo tic Environmental Ltd. to research the fish populations of Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake. Sample sites were chosen to represent different habitat types and dis turbance levels and to facilitate comparisons to a previous shoreline fisheries assessment completed in 2007.

Fish populations are affected by multiple factors including but not limited to: warming waters, habitat disturbance, angling pressure and increasing urbaniza tion (Hildebrand, 2022). With these facts in mind, it is interesting to read through the 2021 shoreline fisheries assessment and look at the species of fish most commonly identified in Lake Windermere. However, it is import ant to note that research over multiple seasons and likely years would be required to accurately determine if the changes in fish populations between the 2007 and 2021 surveys represent actual changes or natural variation (Hildebrand, 2022).

The 2021 survey identified northern pikeminnow as the most common species in Lake Windermere, rep resenting 40.9 per cent of fish identified. In the 2007 survey, northern pikeminnow accounted for less than 5.2 per cent of fish identified. Northern pikeminnow are native to Lake Windermere but known to be voracious predators, often out-competing more sensitive native

It’s oh-fish-al!

species, especially in warmer waters. The 2021 survey also found that northern pikeminnow were common in hab itats of all disturbance levels. However, they were about three times as common in highly disturbed sites than in sites with moderate or low disturbance levels. In contrast, other native fish such as mountain whitefish, redside shiner and peamouth chub appeared to prefer sites with low disturbance levels.

Largemouth bass were the second most common fish in Lake Windermere, accounting for 33.9 percent of fish identified in the 2021 survey. Largemouth bass is a non-native species introduced to Lake Windermere many years ago for sport fishing. Like northern pike minnow, they are better suited to warmer waters and can out-compete or displace many native species that require cool, deep waters.

Though we cannot draw any firm conclusions from comparing the 2007 and 2021 study results, it offers us some important insights. This information will be valu able for future work in designing further surveys and forming hypotheses about changes that could be happen ing in Lake Windermere’s fish populations.

Swim on over to our documents and reports page at Lakeambassadors.ca to read the report! A huge thank you to our funders who supported us on this study: Co lumbia Valley Local Conservation Fund, Columbia Ba sin Trust, Columbia Valley Community Foundation, BC Hydro, the Regional District of East Kootenay, and the District of Invermere.

Table 5 taken from the 2021 Shoreline Fisheries As sessment Final Report - During the summer of 2007, 133 cyprinids were recorded but not identified to species. It is considered likely that northern pikeminnow and pea mouth chub were among the cyprinid species recorded in 2007. Additional research is needed to determine if the differences between years was due to natural variation, the primary sample methods used (snorkel surveys in 2007; beach seining in 2021), or represent actual chang es to the species assemblage and numbers of fish in Lake Windermere (Hildebrand, 2022).

Do you fish Lake Windermere in the fall? We would love to hear what fish you catch. Please fill out our community fish survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ XZG7N6T

HERE TO SERVE YOU

Photo courtesy Getty Images

Alcoholics Anonymous If alcohol is causing problems or conic t in your life, AA can help All meetings are at 8 p m Columbia United AA, Invermere: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday at the BC Ser vice Building, South End 624 4th St , Invermere Please call 250 342 2424 for more information or to speak with someone from our fellowship

A HUGE Cheers to Steve and Shannon Root who shared their anniversar y with all their friends, family and neighbors! The reworks were amazing!! Your generosit y and kindness was felt by all who were there! What a great night!

Cheers to Brandon the Fairmont Goldsmith Always so ver y kind and generous with his time and knowledge!

Cheers to Dave and Andrew from Selkirk Appliance Repair for the quick efficient ser vice!

Cheers to Jamie at Invermere Optometr y You are thorough and efficient!

Cheers to Lakeview Manor Societ y The $25 stove I bought is

Cheers to Pat Allen for always thinking of others even though you have a lot going on in your own life You are a special lady!

Cheers to Peter and the staff at The Bistro You make the BEST homemade beef barley soup The ser vice is always fantastic!

Cheers to R ick Lake for being such a great guy I appreciate all you do to help me!

Cheers to Rosanna and Shane You are always willing to help at the drop of a hat You t wo are awesome.

Cheers to Sobeys for the bread donation for Edgewater Radium Hospital Auxiliar y Halloween tea That was awesome

Moll, Rober t (Buzz) E llis

April 20, 1933

October 28, 2022

With heavy hearts, with his family at his side Robert (Buzz) Ellis Moll passed away peacefully at home on October 28, 2022 at the age of 89.

Buzz was born in Maidstone Saskatchewan on April 20, 1933 to Clara and Gustaf (Gust) Moll He moved to the valley in 1952 before returning to Maidstone to marr y Ona Beisel in 1956. They returned to raise their family and worked in the logging industr y before working with Art Stringer and then starting his own plumbing business in 1975.

Camping, fishing, gardening, skiing and garage sales were some of Buzz’s favourite pastimes. Once retired, he enjoyed many peaceful hours building projects in his shop Many of his wooden fisherman, Swedish horses, and birdhouses can be found throughout the region.

Buzz was predeceased by Ona Moll, his wife of 51 years, his parents Gustaf and Clara Moll, brother Willie Moll, sister Marlene Tompkins, grandson Colin Moll and great granddaughter Riley Pitchford

He is sur vived by his wife Irene Olson, sister Ann (Royce) Stevenson, brother Wesley (Mar y Jean) Moll, daughter Darcel (Rick) Luyendyk, son Wesley (Zlata) Moll and families, extended family Ronnie (Irene) Olson, Keith (Shawna) Olson, Cindy (Gerr y) Sielsky and families.

At his request there will not be a formal public ser vice, although his family would love to hear your favourite stories about Buzz. There will be an interment and private graveside ser vice in Maidstone Saskatchewan at a later date

• Phone: 250-341-6299

• Email: info@columbiavalleypioneer.com

• Web: www.columbiavalleypioneer.com

Cheers to Linda Pattison I so appreciate the love and concern you have for me You are a special lady!

Cheers to Mark Payne for your help, your generosit y and for sharing your knowledge You are awesome!

Cheers to Nicole at Sobeys baker y for the excellent ser vice for our Halloween tea!

A big Cheers to the Radium Edgewater Hospital Auxiliar y ladies for the great tea on Saturday the 29th The food was great and the costumes were absolutely amazing. Well done, ladies

Ar t Gieck of Countr y Piano House will be tuning November 16 and 17. Call 250 347 9882 for an appointment

B B ’s Home & Design Ser vices

Renovation’s, Masonr y & Handyman Ser vices, Blinds & Install Cabin checks/yard care/eavestrough cleaning/junk removal/dump runs. Call 250 688 2897

GENERAL CONTRAC TOR Framing, Roo ng, D ecks, Fences, S offit, Fascia, Etc Contac t Bill Hinves 403 803 5357

Cheers to Trac y at Chisel Peak Medical Clinic Your help tracking

was

medical

Kunze, Margret

August 6, 1939 October 16, 2022

It is with profound sadness that the family of Margret Kunze announces her passing on October 16, 2022 at the age of 83.

Margret was born in Hamburg, Germany After immigrating from Germany to Canada in 1956, Margret married Wolfgang Kunze She was a loving wife, dedicated mother, and a successful business owner of a hair and beauty salon (Jonathan’s Hair Design) in Calgar y, Alberta for many years. She was ver y active throughout her life, especially enjoying swimming and hiking, and after retiring from the business world, Margret maintained many close friendships as an active member of the Dutch Creek/Fairmont community She was greatly appreciated by family and friends for her traditional cooking and superlative baking skills, and for maintaining a warm and welcoming home always.

Margret is sur vived by her husband of 62 years, Wolfgang Kunze; Sons Dirk (Sandy) Kunze and Niels Kunze She is also sur vived by her grandsons Josh Kunze of Vancouver, Justin, Brayden and Brody Kunze of Creston.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date

403 585 6886

THE HEARTFELT COMPANION: Ser vices for Seniors Since 2014 we've provided kind and compassionate non medical care, transpor tation to Cranbrook, overnight care, meal prep, grocer y shopping and more. Excellent local references. 250 341 5683

A hear tfelt thank you from the Moll, Luyendyk and Olson families to Dr Schaffer, homecare nurses Carole, Gabby, Jessie S, Jessie M and Deanna We appreciate all of the care and kindness given to our dad, Buzz, throughout his recent illness and passing.

CHEERS

WITHOUT

HOUSES

Diamond Heating and Spas

Email: info@diamondheatingandspas.com Fax: 250-342-

R igid Plumbing Ltd is hiring! Looking for an experienced plumber Call 250 341 5179

Local Elec trical Contrac tor looking for Apprentice and Journeyman Elec tricians Wage DOE Email resume to ekelec tric@telus net

Wanted 2 F/T Restaurant Cooks, Rocky River Grill, 8888 Arrow Road, Invermere, B.C. Permanent, F/T shifts, over time, weekends, days and evenings, $16/hour for 40 hours per week Over time after 40 hours. Minimum several years’ experience and completion of secondar y school. DUTIES: Prepare and cook full course meals, prepare and cook individual dishes and foods, ensure qualit y of food por tions, work with minimal super vision, prepare dishes for customers with food allergies or intolerances Inspec t kitchens and food ser vice areas Please for ward resume to Justin Atterbur y by fax 250 342 8889 or email: justatterbur y@hotmail.com

W A N T E D T O B U Y

WANTED SASQUATCH SKULL Also purchasing SILVER & GOLD coins, bars, jewelr y, scrap, nuggets, sterling, 999+ BULLION, maple leafs, bulk silver, pre -1969 coins Coin collec tor BUYING ENTIRE COIN COLLECTIONS, old $ & Royal Canadian Mint coins TODD 250-864-3521.

Rockies West Realty

M A I N T E N A N C E A N D G RO U N D S PE R S O N

Windermere,

terravistagm@gmail.com.

Licensed

Manager needed

SNOW

Like it or not, it’s coming, and we’re looking for new team members!

Can you drive a plow truck? Operate a skid steer? How about a shovel? Do you appreciate working with good equipment, an organized company, and other hardworking individuals?

Are you a student, retired or self employed? Do you have a current job with flexible work hours? This is the perfect way to make some extra money! We offer a variety of opportunities to fit in with your life, whether it’s a couple of hours in the mor ning clearing sidewalks, long shifts in equipment, or something between.

Of course, snow work is a bit sporadic. You must be available and committed to work on an on call basis. To be a good fit for this position you must be reliable, punctual, and hard working. We expect the best from our crew, so we pay them $25/hr from day one! We also offer an extremely flexible benefits package for team members who stay with us year round

If Snow Fighting is the kind of challenge you are looking for this winter, please email enquiries to:

info@brigadeltd.com

Box 159, 8866 Grainger Rd., Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

Phone: 250-349-5462

• Fax: 250-349-5460

village@canal ats.ca

RESPONSIBLE ADULT (RA)

Live. Work

Our community is like no other. As the source of the Columbia River, we are uniquely positioned between the Kootenay River and the Columbia Lake. The Rocky and Purcell Mountains are right in your own back yard. Walk or bike to work and enjoy your weekends hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors.

As a strong team we are committed to supporting career and personal development. We work with our team on developing key technical and leadership competencies.

The opportunity (Responsible Adult (RA))

We are opening our new daycare facility and building a fantastic team of educators.

The Village of Canal Flats seeks enthusiastic, caring, and reliable Responsible Adults to join our team in a newly constructed, provincially licensed, 40-space childcare facility. The daycare facility is uniquely positioned in the heart of the Village. This is your opportunity to bring a fresh new approach to childhood development and support programming.

Employment Oppor tunity

Direc tor of Finance

Are you awesome? A team builder and creator of positive corporate culture whose levels of financial skill and experience match your personality? If you are then the Village of Radium Hot Springs is looking for you!

The Village seeks an experienced Director of Finance who can lead, develop, and mentor the finance team into the future

This is a unique time to join the Village team: a time of significant organizational renewal In addition to your general awesomeness and ability to work well as a member of a high functioning team the ideal candidate will have a professional accounting designation (a finance diploma may be considered), and a track record of success and organizational and cultural improvement in progressively senior finance roles preferably in the public sector

In return the Village can offer: a competitive salar y; comprehensive benefits including defined benefit pension; and superior flexibility on hours worked including potentially a hybrid office/remote working arrangement to the right candidate

As a key member of the senior management team, and repor ting to the Chief Administrative Officer, you will oversee the Village’s finance depar tment and provide guidance, strategic advice, and direction within the organization. You will be accountable for effective administration of the financial affairs of the Village including all accounting, budgeting, financial planning, debt and investment management, financial risk management, and the ongoing review of financial processes and policy

Desired knowledge includes:

• Demonstrated knowledge of public sector financial accounting and repor ting principles and requirements under PSAB

• Thorough knowledge of BC municipal legislation as it relates to finance

• Demonstrated knowledge of contemporar y municipal asset management practices

• The ability to communicate straightfor wardly and effectively with a variety of audiences

• Experience in consulting with public and working with councils, boards, and committees

• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Vadim financial software

Personality is key! Awesome candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by Monday, November 7, 2022 to:

Adrian Bergles, Chief Administrative Officer

Village of Radium Hot Springs cao@radiumhotsprings.ca

The Village of Radium Hot Springs thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted

These new programs will create a warm, supportive, healthy and engaging early learning environment for both children and caregivers

The ideal candidate will possess the following quali cations:

• 20 hrs of training in an approved program

• Current First Aid approved by CCFLB;

• Criminal Records Check;

• Valid BC Driver’s Licence.

Required experience:

• Previous childcare experience is an asset;

• Demonstrates the ability to work in an e ective team environment;

• Knowledge of and willingness and ability to follow and implement Childcare Licencing regulations.

Wage and Bene ts:

Responsible adult positions have a competitive salary that will be contingent upon experience and quali cations. The Village of Canal Flats supports training and advancement to ECE and ECEIT quali cations.

The Village of Canal Flats o ers the following workplace bene ts:

• extended health, dental and life insurance bene ts paid by the employer;

• have a paid ECEBC membership;

• earn paid sick and holiday time;

• enrollment in the Municipal Pension Plan with employer matching

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please send your cover letter and resume to Ashley Nielsen, DayCare Manager, by email to ashley.nielsen@canal ats.ca Applications, including three references from your work life, will be received until November 15th, 2022.

We thank all interested individuals for their applications for this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Canal Flats, B.C. V0B 1B0

Phone: 250-349-5462

• Fax: 250-349-5460

village@canal ats.ca

Live. Work

Our community is like no other. As the source of the Columbia River, we are uniquely positioned between the Kootenay River and the Columbia Lake. The Rocky and Purcell Mountains are right in your own back yard. Walk or bike to work and enjoy your weekends hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors.

As a strong team we are committed to supporting career and personal development. We work with our team on developing key technical and leadership competencies.

The opportunity (ECE/ECEIT)

We are opening our new daycare facility and building a fantastic team of educators.

The Village of Canal Flats seeks enthusiastic, caring, and reliable Responsible Adults to join our team in a newly constructed, provincially licensed, 40-space childcare facility. The daycare facility is uniquely positioned in the heart of the Village. This is your opportunity to bring a fresh new approach to childhood development and programming.

These new programs will create a warm, supportive, healthy and engaging early learning environment for both children and caregivers.

The ideal candidate will possess the following quali cations:

• An Early Childhood Educator license that is valid in BC;

• Infant/Toddler licence that is valid in BC is an asset;

• Current First Aid approved by CCFLB;

• Criminal Records Check;

• Valid BC Driver’s Licence.

Required experience:

• Minimum 1-3 years of daycare experience.

• Demonstrates the ability to work in an e ective team environment;

• Knowledge of and willingness and ability to follow and implement Childcare Licencing regulations.

Wage and Bene ts:

Responsible adult positions have a competitive salary that will be contingent upon experience and quali cations. The Village of Canal Flats supports training and advancement to ECE and ECEIT quali cations.

The Village of Canal Flats o ers the following workplace bene ts:

• extended health, dental and life insurance bene ts paid by the employer;

• have a paid ECEBC membership;

• earn paid sick and holiday time;

• enrollment in the Municipal Pension Plan with employer matching;

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please send your cover letter and resume to Ashley Nielsen, DayCare Manager, by email to ashley.nielsen@canal ats.ca Applications, including three references from your work life, will be received until November 15th, 2022.

We thank all interested individuals for their applications for this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Village of Radium Hot Springs

EARLY CHILDCARE EDUCATOR(ECE) / EARLY CHILDCARE EDUCATOR INFANT TODDLER (ECEIT)

FAITH

Remembering God’s everlasting love

By Pastor Wayne Frater Radium Christian Fellowship Church

Romans 8:31-32 says, ‘What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?’

I don’t know about you, but I sometimes forget how great and wonderful and awesome God is. I forget how about how much He loves me; sometimes I feel discour aged or depressed, maybe worried about something going on in my life, or maybe my family or friends’ lives, maybe it is a financial problem, or maybe a health problem. And then I am reminded of what Paul says in Romans 8:3839: ‘For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

With that love, as we remember that love, I am re minded, that no matter how bleak, how depressing things seem to be, we can always get before our God, we can always pray, and even if we don’t feel like it, in 1 Thessa lonians 15:16-18 Paul tells us, ‘Rejoice always, pray with out ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.’ And I know God answers

those prayers.

Just as we set aside one day a year - November 11 to - remember those who have given of themselves for our freedom, we also have to set time aside each day, to remember that everlasting love God has for us, what He has done for us, what He is doing for us, and what He is going to do for us. God is on our side.

In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians chapter one, verses 15-22, there is a prayer. You can personalize it, or you can pray it for others.

It is a prayer for spiritual wisdom: ‘Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlight ened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His pow er toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in that which is to come.

And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.’

Remember, ‘If God is for us, who can be against us?’

Nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Telus sponsored Canada’s first circular economy

By Chadd Cawson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

If we aren’t on our phones, then they are certainly nearby. We value our mobile devices until they no lon ger hold their value. Then what? Telus sponsored Can ada’s first-ever circular economy month in October, an awareness campaign that focused on the importance of repairing, recycling and upcycling to reduce electronic waste.

In collaboration with the circular innovation coun cil (CIC),Telus made a commitment to drive positive environmental change by prolonging the lifespan of connected devices and reducing the piles of electron ic waste out of landfills. It’s something everyone who lives on the breathtaking unceded territories of the Secwépemc and Ktunaxa Peoples and the land chosen as home by the Métis Peoples of B.C can appreciate: a healthier environment.

The awareness campaign aligned with the focus Telus plans to put on: environmental sustainability and its long-standing efforts to help preserve and protect our planet.

In an October press release, Jo-Anne St. God ard, executive director, CIC, said, “Circular economy month provides us an opportunity to think about how production and consumption effects our environment. It is also a time to celebrate innovation and reimagine how we produce, use and discard products to increase their value and reduce environmental impacts. Woven into our everyday lives, cell phones are a perfect candi date to help Canadians engage in circular practices by purchasing devices that are produced with minimal nat

ural resources, designed for durability, repaired, refur bished and easy to recycle. These are all characteristics of a product that supports a circular economy. By joining as a founding partner, Telus is demonstrating its com mitment to doing its part of facilitating and promoting Canada’s transition to a circular economy.”

Telus is encouraging Canadians to repair, recycle or upcycle their pre-loved phones or tablets.

“To date, TELUS and our customers have respon sibly recycled over 3.5 million devices and counting; this year alone, we’ve upcycled more than 80,000 used handsets into certified pre-owned devices, with poten tial savings of over 2,000 metric tonnes of carbon emis sions each year when compared to selling new devices,” said Jim Senko, executive vice president and president, mobility solutions at Telus, in an October press release.

“We’re so passionate about the circular economy and the power of responsible device recycling as preloved devices are put back into the market through re sale, our bring-it back program or repairing devices at our mobile Klinik stores so they can have a prolonged life.”

Columbia Valley residents can help by taking steps to repair their phones rather than being quick to toss them aside. Telus’ mobile Klinik stores will take care of concerns such as cracked screen, sluggish operating systems, and water damage, to name a few. There are 125 across Canada; the closest for Columbia Valley res idents is in Cranbrook.

Telus will plant a tree for every device recycled as part of their mission to plant its one millionth tree.

LAKE WINDERMERE ALLIANCE CHURCH

Now open for in-person services. Sundays at 10:30 a.m. 326 10th Avenue, Invermere 250-342-9535 • www.lwac.ca

WINDERMERE VALLEY SHARED

MINISTRY ANGLICAN-UNITED

Minister: Brent Woodard

Sundays at 10:30 a.m. In-person or on zoom. For the zoom link, please visit our website (Windermere Valley Shared Ministry). 110 - 7th Ave. in Invermere.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Murray Wittke 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere 250-342-9511 • www.valleychristianonline.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Anthony’s, Canal Flats., Canadian Martyrs’ –Invermere, St. Joseph’s – Radium.

Canal Flats: Saturday, 4 p.m.

Canadian Martyrs, Invermere: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. St. Joseph, Radium: Sunday 11 a.m.

Father Jojo Augustine • 712 -12th Ave., Invermere 250-342-6167

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sunday 1:30 p.m. Worship Service at Valley Christian 4814 Highway Drive, Windermere lutheranstpeter@gmail.com

RADIUM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Sunday 10 a.m. Worship service

Pastor Wayne and Linda Frater • 250-342-6633 No. 4, 7553 Main St. Radium • 250-347-9937

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Worship Service, Sunday, 10 a.m. Relief Society, 11:15 a.m.

President Kendyn Mackensie • Columbia Valley Branch • 5014 Fairway, Fairmont Hot Springs 250-439-9041

CHURCH OF CHRIST (Iglesia ni Cristo)

Worship Service: Sunday 9 a.m., ursday 7:45 p.m. Chamber of Commerce (Lions Hall)

For inquiries: 250-688-1643 250-270-2208 or 250-688-0629

For more info about the church, you can Google online at incmedia.org or pasugo.com.ph

questions?

L o u d n o i s e s c a n b e r u f f o n y o u r e a r s

The Hearing Loss Clinic has become an integral par t of my family’s healthcare team. As an athlete and coming into the medical field myself, I can appreciate how each aspect of our health contributes to the bigger picture. Hearing health is an impor tant par t of how we interact with the world, which correlates to so many other par ts of our humanity. It’s all connected. The Hearing Loss Clinic team really understands this and it shows in their passion for what they do and how they treat their patients, from the moment someone walks in the door to the final testing and fitting.

Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser, 4 time Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Canada

2019 Chamber of Commerce Business of The Year Award Winner

2020 Chamber of Commerce Professional Ser vices Excellence Award Winner

2022 Chamber of Commerce Professional Ser vices Excellence Award Winner

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CRANBROOK

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FERNIE

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GOLDEN 250-344-2228 INVERMERE 250-342-2551

GOLDEN 250-344-2228 INVERMERE 250-342-2551